News Thread [Kylaris|Canon|IC]

by **Kylaris** » Wed Jul 19, 2017 4:51 pm

Kylaris News Thread

News is a constant. Journalists search for and report facts to readers globally on a twenty-four hour cycle. As such, thousands of news stories are posted each day across Kylaris. Featured here are a selection of articles from around the world.

RULES

1. The news thread, for the most part, follows real time. As such, posts should reflect this and must be dated. Backdating and forward-dating are allowed by a week behind and a week in advance of the day posted respectively.
2. Remember: this is an in-character, canon thread.
3. Posts should read as if they come from the appropriate body (i.e. private and public news agencies).
4. Keep posts site-appropriate and abide by all NationStates rules.
5. Only post here if you are from the region of Kylaris.

FORMATTING

by **Liecthenbourg** » Wed Jul 19, 2017 6:05 pm

REFERENDUM ON SOVEREIGNTY OF 'NOUVEAU ANGLET' ENDS IN GAULLICAN VICTORY
The referendum on the sovereignty of Nouveau Anglet has ended, with the option to "remain with Gaullica" earning a comfortable 73%

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Antoinette Giourd (@agiourd)
^{20 July 2017 | Kota Sebuku, Gaullica}

Kusno Tanjung, leader of the "Gaullicans of Nouveau Anglet" Campaign, celebrates his campaign's victory.
Photo courtesy of Joanna Demarq

Kota Sebuku, Gaullica -

A warm night in Kota Sebuku, and the island of Nouveau Anglet at large, has erupted into celebration as the referendum on Nouveau Anglet's continued sovereignty, promised by the Gaullican Socialist Party earlier last year, comes to a close with the Gaullican camp comfortably winning at 73% of the vote. The "join Negara" option got an increased 21%, and the remainder fell to "non of the above" and "an independent Nouveau Anglet." The results came in at early 1:00 AM this morning, just after midnight, when all prefectures on the island had reported in their results. The referendum was overseen by the Gaullican, Negaran and an independent Community of Nations diplomatic envoy. Many had anticipated a much closer race, given the fierce campaigning of Lutansieto Yubi and her firebrand speeches that called upon ethnic Negarans to "awake from the imperialistic world they live in." Yet, despite this, it has been seen that the calm, collected approach taken by Mr. Tanjung seems to have paid off for the Gaullican government.

The referendum, ending today after a series of campaigns over the past few weeks, has shown however the disparity amongst the voting blocks. Whilst many assumed that the working Negarans would be more subject to the dialogue given by Mrs. Yubi, it seems that with a large proportion of them, 68%, siding with the "remain with Gaullica option", 12% with "an independent Nouveau Anglet" and only a measly 20% in favour of "join with Negara" gives an indication into the economic factors at present. Some sociologists have highlighted that Gaullica's much higher standard of living, which has made its way to what some call a last vestige of imperialism, has given many of the working class a reason to remain with the economic power they have been given under the Gaullican government. What has shocked many however, is that the upper echelons of the society of Nouveau Anglet who are not ethnically Gaullican, its minority Negaran population, voted overwhelmingly in favour, 93%, to "join Negara." Some have speculated that continued economic security would come, regardless of owner of the island, to these people and thus had no qualms with accepting the ethnic and cultural ties that the "Negarans Unite" to Negara that Mrs. Yubi promised.

The results reflect an increasing trend however. The last referendum, which took place in 1987, showed that a smaller percentage of the population - 61% - wished to remain with Gaullica. Sociological commentary has cited that the youth vote, who Mrs. Yubi highlighted throughout her campaign as "becoming Gaullicans, not Negarans" through their culture, did vote very much in favour of remaining with the Euclean nation.

With the results in, both major contenders at this referendum, which has also largely been a battle for the Mayorship of Kota Sebuku, issued their respective statements.

Mr. Tanjung decreed that this was "a message from the people of Nouveau Anglet that they will not be swayed by ethnic nationalism to join a situation merely because of ties of blood, but will decide based on what is their best interests at heart."

Mrs. Yubi, on the other hand, displayed that this was "not the result the Negarans of Nouveau Anglet should have wanted, and it merely prolongs Gaullica's cultural dominance over an island not rightfully theirs." Yet she also spoke of "continuing to fight the fight to free the Negarans on the island."

Jean Vallette, President of Gaullica, issued a statement at 1:15 AM that "took the referendum's result to heart, and that Gaullica understands that Nouveau Anglet wishes, on the majority, to remain with the Gaullican state. For this, we owe the peoples on the isles, the Gaullicans who reside there, a thank you for their continued trust and faith in our country."

Augustin de Troumpe tweeted that this was "A Historic Victory for the self determination of Gaullica's overseas states, which have unjustly been hounded since 1936 as imperial possessions despite their wishes to remain with Gaullica."

Renne Pau-Langevin, Gaullica's Minister for Overseas States, who campaigned on the island for Mr. Tanjung's cause, issued a statement on the island that "The people of Nouveau Anglet have spoken, and their voice, on the majority, wishes to remain with Gaullica. We ask Negara to respect this decision and to drop their claims on an island that wishes to remain with the Gaullican nation."

Whilst this referendum has guaranteed Nouveau Anglet's continued presence within Gaullica for a long time, it cannot be said how the Negaran government will react. The island, despite its large Negaran majority, serves as an important reminder to much of Coius as a "last vestige of imperialism." Furthermore, its presence in the southern Vehemens Ocean and near the Sublustrian Sea, gives Gaullica greater power projection than many other of Kylaris' major states.

Yet for now, Mr. Tanjung can celebrate his victory. Gaullica, too, breathes a sigh of relief for the fears of bolstering other ethnic strife throughout the state, specifically the Gordes in the south of the country, have subsided. We will most likely see, with this victory, Mr. Tanjung become the Mayor of Kota Sebuku. But the looming threat of world tension rising also remains, as Negara remains vigilant to the island it rightfully sees as its. How it will react, we cannot say for sure, but Gaullican/Negaran relations were coming out of this referendum strained; regardless of outcome.

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Gaullica's new national park, "Les Bois", opens. [ 6238 ]
Opinion: Negara wont back down from Nouveau Anglet [ 5509 ]
Devereaux: "Nouveau Anglet has been Gaullican longer than Negara has been a state." [ 5136 ]
Lydia Bettencort of the Gaullican Cooperativist Party declares that "the referendum has proved continued closing of wealth inequality is what won us Nouveau Anglet." [ 4951 ]
Analysis: Gaullica's last vestiges of a colonial empire, still cling to it for help. But for how long? [ 4684 ]

by **Valentir** » Wed Jul 19, 2017 8:51 pm

REVELRIES ERUPT NATIONWIDE AS VALENTIRI CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY
Millions of Valentiri celebrate the nation's independence from Estmere 199 years ago, greatly overshadowing last year's festivities

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Caitlyn Grayson (@cgrayson)
^{19 July 2017 | Valema, Valentir}

Firework shows at the Valema Opera House and Drakon Harbour Bridge were but a few of the extravagant displays of patriotism.
Photo courtesy of Jean-Marc Cotillard

Valema, Valentir -

Fireworks will brighten the sky tonight as tens of millions celebrate the 199th anniversary of Valentir's independence from Estmere in 1818. Anticipation for today was at an all time high this year after the "disastrous celebrations" of 2016. Family gatherings, fireworks, barbecues, and parades set the mood for one of the most joyous occasions in the nation's tenuous and somber history.

Thousands of local festivities have been organised in every corner of Valentir, assisted by the Department of Culture and Communications, which has been working very hard to remedy the faults of the previous year's anniversary.

Minister for Culture and Communications Beverley Sheffield told the press today that the department is "tireless in our efforts" and that they will "make tonight one to be remembered."

Members of the Department and other officials involved in the organisation process for tonight said they are "optimistic" and hope that tonight will "unite the country."

Indeed independence day has often served as a unifying force during some of the very divisive times we have experienced in the past such as in 1904 when Gaullican Évités and Union Republicans chose the 19th as the day to announce their official unification in opposition to the dictatorial regime of Octavius Montécarde.

Today appears to be no exception as members of the government and opposition come together to join in the celebrations.

Speaker Jacob Montgomery dismissed the Assembly after a rousing speech where he called for members to "lighten up and enjoy the evening."

However, not everyone is as optimistic or enthusiastic for tonight. The Home Office has called for people to maintain caution tonight as federal police forces tighten security in the wake of the Montsimmard bombings. The extensive festivities have put the FSB and Home Office on high alert, their manpower already stretched thin by the manhunt for Delmar Lavoie.

With Lavoie still on the run, the protection of the President and other high profile officials is of "paramount concern" according to Director Lucien Lachance.

The President and his family, beginning the day with the 19th of July annual parade, led the event with great enthusiasm, electrifying the crowd. According to the President's Office, he did this despite protests from his head of security. He opened the event with the 19th of July address, delivered every independence day by the current president.

"Good morning Valema. I hope you are fired up and ready to go. I know I am." Almost 200,000 people attended the parade, a very high turn out compared to last year.

"Today we celebrate the 19th of July, we celebrate our independence day. On this momentous occasion, we embrace the feeling of community and understanding fostered by a diverse population after nearly two centuries of independence as Gaullicans, Estmerish, Araterans, and others join as one in praise of what previous generations of Valentiri have accomplished."

"Tonight we celebrate the unification of many different peoples, whose cultures and beliefs have become infused into a greater Valentiri identity that binds us together. I cannot help but feel great pride in the unity and brotherhood that has bound us together as one. Today we must reflect on the decisions of past generations and remember the sacrifice they made to ensure that we would inherit a strong, secure, and stable Valentir."

President Ashton's speech mentioned a number of issues that have many Valentiri concerned. The political stability of the country, the economy, and how Valentir will fit into the international community were a few that he chose to address this morning.

His use of the speech as a "state of the nation" is nothing new and the address is often used by presidents to highlight how their leadership will help overcome the challenges that have many people worried.

"As we look forward at the challenges ahead, unsure of our place in the world, we must always remember that no matter what we will emerge victorious and we will emerge stronger and more united than before. Tonight we will celebrate all that we have accomplished and make a toast to the accomplishments ahead in our future. Surrounded by family, friends, and members of our community, let's make this a night that we will never forget. Happy Independence Day!"

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199 years of Independence Day celebrations. [ 3,186 ]
NLP finishes first draft of bill, "DIADEM". [ 2,533 ]
Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) joins the manhunt for Lavoie, assisted by Asteria and Glytter. [ 6,258 ]

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Wed Jul 19, 2017 9:14 pm

O'BRIEN CONFIRMED AS SFB DIRECTOR IN COMHTHIONÓL VOTE
SFB Director-General for Cyber-Defense Sinéad O'Brien's confirmation means she will take up the reins at the embattled agency

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Rónán Ó Cuillinn (@ronangbf)
^{19 July 2017 | Spálgleann, Glytter}

Ms. O'Brien has promised to "subvert" all attempts by foreign nations to hack Glytteronian agencies, companies.

SPÁLGLEANN – The Comhthionól Náisiúnta has confirmed the appointment of Sinéad O'Brien as Director of the Seirbhís Faisnéise Baile (SFB).

Ms. O'Brien, who was nominated by Taoiseach Jimmy O'Reilly at the end of last month, was confirmed in a cross-party vote of 303 to 89. There were seven abstentions.

She has served as the SFB's Director-General for Cyber-Defense since 2014 and has promised to "subvert any and all attempts by foreign government to undermine the Glytteronian government and economy" through cyber warfare.

At her confirmation hearing before the Comhthionól Committee on National Security, Ms. O'Brien said that across the world there are "serious attempts" being made by "hostile governments" to infiltrate the cyber infrastructure of their adversaries.

"In particular, emails are of great concern" Ms. O'Brien told the panel of TCs as they questioned her.

"Phishing is just one of the ways hackers employed by or aligned with these governments hit their targets. As it has evolved, phishing has become much more complex and much harder for the average person to detect. An email that looks like it could be from your co-worker, your bank, or even a retailer could in fact be a trojan horse that will not only compromise your account, but potentially many accounts on that same server".

"This is why we must implement comprehensive cyber-defense measures, something I intend to do" she said.

She cleared the Comhthionól Committee on National Security in a unanimous vote after the First Chair, TC Muirís Mac Murchú, allowed the committee to vote. Previously, Mr. Mac Murchú was stalling the vote citing concerns over "insufficient vetting".

However, after Ms. O'Brien testified he said that all of her concerns were "more than addressed".

Ms. O'Brien is inheriting an agency in crisis. The resignation of her predecessor, Terry MacArthur, has reportedly left the agency "with its head chopped off" according to senior sources within the SFB.

Mr. MacArtur resigned over extensive criticism from the Higgins-Fitzwallace Commission for his role during the 23 August Attacks. The investigative commission's second report focused extensively on the shortcomings of the ex-Director and his agency.

The report said that "the SFB fundamentally failed to provide intelligence that would have disrupted the activities of the MRF" and that "[the SFB] was not prepared to react accordingly to a domestic terrorist incident of this magnitude".

The Commission cited the SFB's budget as part of the reason it was not prepared to handle the incident, saying that "[Director Terry] MacArthur funneled resources away from domestic intelligence and counterintelligence initiatives, instead focusing on providing protective details for government officials".

"This significantly contributed to the inability of the SFB to detect the establishment of the MRF, to detect the extensive planning of the 23 August attacks, and to detect the involvement of the rouge Songhua ensitive Affairs Bureau (MSJ) agents".

In the report, the Commission said there is an "urgent need" to "comprehensively change the budget of the SFB and the allocation of its resources going forward".

The Commission also said that at the time of the 23 August attacks the SFB was "too focused on threats posed by Salamic extremists".

"After the threats made against the Glytteronian nation by Al-Haras and the knife attacks in early August, the SFB honed in on combating threats posed by Al-Haras and independent actors radicalized online by Al-Haras. Many of the agencies resources had been redirected here, including most of its agents working in counterintelligence".

She is expected to restore order quickly as she has been a part of the SFB leadership for several years. Ms. O'Brien mentioned in her testimony that she would implement the recommendations of the Higgins-Fitzwallace Commission, first starting with reforming the agency's budget.

Her intended deputy, SFB Director-General for Counter-Terrorism Ossian Canavan-Keogh, is believed to be able to assist her in reestablishing order, as he too is part of the SFB's leadership apparatus and is familiar with the agency.

Mr. Canavan-Koegh testified before the Comhthionól Committee on National Security last Thursday and his nomination is expected to be put to a vote on Tuesday.

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SDs to vote on new leader 'this weekend'. [ 6238 ]
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Ex-Taoiseach Walker praises Nouveau Anglet referendum as a 'democratic show of love for Gaullica'. [ 5136 ]
FMP remains in turmoil as leadership crisis continues. [ 4951 ]
Analysis: Is populism a threat to Euclean democracy? [ 4684 ]

by **Caltarania** » Thu Jul 20, 2017 3:20 am

A RED MAN ON THE RED PLANET?
Over three decades after the advent of the Lother Program, Althirian authorities announce intentions to reach the Red Planet before 2020

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Büylr Lyciaserür Diwerü (@LyciaserürDiwerü)
20 July 2017 | Lyrath, Althira

The announcement, the first since the Asterian moon landing, promises to reinvigorate the Great Space Race.
Photo courtesy of the Ylyath Llyr Photography Department.

LYRATH, ALTHIRA -

Many older readers may recognise the headline as a mirror of one of our older issues; that is because it is.

In 1984, after the initial announcement of the Lother Program, we ran the headline and described what an Althiric Mars colony would look like.

Those who know their history, however, would also remember that less than two years later in 1986, Operation 0185 was discovered, leading the a temporary halt in the program that was never since reversed.

That is, until today. In front of Union House and the gathered associated press in Lyrath, Premier Llyrpuld Lylith announced with great vigor the intention of the Althiric government to be able to put a man on Mars by 2020.

In the same speech, she reminded the world of the Althiric advancements in technology that had spurred on the previous space race, and even went so far as to invite the other powers to "try their might" against Althirian ingenuity.

Ofwygsortyl Veyle, the first Althirian woman in space, was then happy to announce that, alongside a team of experts, she would be heading the project. She assured the public that "the best minds" were working on it.

In response to the announcement, recorded internet searched for the Althiric space agency, the Althirian Space Research Society (ASRS), have quintupled, and the application website for prospective members crashed due to overuse.

Combined with a recent poll, which showed that 81% of people were "sort of interested, "interested" or "very interested" with space exploration, this shows the true Althiric desire to reach for the stars; or in this case, red planets.

Pundits have speculated that the announcement will be met with similar reactions in the other Great Powers of Kylaris; particularly the Federation and Euclean Community, both of which have well-known space agencies.

The return to a policy of space exploration is a welcome one for many; the end of the Great Space Race brought on by the shift in funding priorities caused by Operation 0185 is a source of shame for many.

But the return signifies that Althira has recovered from those events fully; no longer must it recluse itself from expensive projects for fear of foreign tampering or theft.

There are some who are, however, angry at the announcement; some citizens do not believe that money should be wasted on space exploration when it could instead be spent here on Kylaris.

Members of the Organisation Against Space Exploration (OASE) organised a march against the announcement in the capital of Lyrath, but the march was officially postponed due to bad weather.

The Premier however assured members of organisations such as the OASE that while money was being spent on space exploration, the expenditure "would not distract from other budgetary concerns".

While some organisations are vehemently against the announcement of a Mars mission, some believe that the announcement did not go far enough.

Jywuatorur Perwya, spokesperson for the Mars Settlement Association, believes that the mission should go further; and establish an Althiric colony on the Red Planet.

Many commentators report that such an action would likely go against Outer-Space Treaties, but this does not deter the organisation.

"We need to secure a future for our species." Perwya told us. "We cannot do that if all our chances of survival are pinned to a single planet!" she then added.

The Premier assured on-lookers that, while a Mars colony would be an asset, the Union was not looking into such an investment at the current time.

Do you believe in space exploration, or do you think it is a waste in resources? Whatever your opinion on the subject, we implore you to comment it below.

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Savant of the Lotherist faith announces new holy day. [ 3261 ]
Nouveau Anglet sovereignty settled? An in-depth look at the island. [ 6373 ]
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Opinion: Space exploration is a sin. [ 3289 ]
Sinéad O'Brien confirmed as Glytteronian SFB Director. [ 1234 ]

by **Elepis** » Thu Jul 20, 2017 7:14 am

The Last Shahbanu Dies Aged 79
The last crowned Shahbanu of Fars, Golshanak Dhaayla-Gurham, dies of lung cancer in Glytter

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Parima Chhibber
(@pchhibber)
^{19 July 2017 | Susa, Fars}

Shahbanu Golshanak Dhaayla-Gurham, pictured aged 25
Photo courtesy Bashir Arsaces

Gayneva, Glytter-

Shahbanu Golshanak Dhaayla-Gurham, the wife of the Farvad Gurham the last Shahanshah of Fars, has died aged 79 of chronic long cancer at her home in exile in Gayneva in the northern state of Glytter. Shahbanu Golshanak was for decades a favourite of the press both in Fars and internationally due to her photogenic looks and outspoken criticism of the post-revolutionary federal government of Fars and was generally considered a far more formidable character than her late husband the Shah despite her Norther epitaph: "The Sad-Eyed Empress".

Known in Fars as the "Shadow Shah", Shahbanu Golshanak married the Shah in the spring of 1958 after a brief romance, ten years before his deposition. Born in to the lower rungs of the aristocracy, prior to marrying the Shah, Miss Golshanak had had a brief career as an architect having been educated in Verlois. However despite her lowly background, the new Shahbanu adapted well to palace life and soon began monopolising power behind the throne in her hands. Following on from the legacy of Shah Afrang Gurham, Farvad's father, the Shahbanu continued to push for the modernisation of the Farsi state within the monarchical structure at a time when her husband preferred to spend his days hunting and going to the theatre. Over the course of her decade long reign as Shahbanu, she amassed an array of governmental titles such as President of the Imperial Organisation for Social Services, vice-president of the National Committee for World Literacy, and President of the National Organisation for Women as well as wielding as large amount of soft power.

However despite her reformist nature she was always the arch-monarchist and vocally supported the work of the SAVAK, the Shah's secret police, and the institution of the monarchy. She was also a key player in persuading her husband to assume a more authoritarian and absolute rule, partly in order to push through the modernising reforms she championed at court. The Shahbanu held such influence over her all-powerful husband it is known that foreign diplomats would often first approach the her, "the shah’s dynamic and forceful wife", with proposals before meeting the Shah himself. However as unrest in Fars, largely inspired by the works of the philosopher and sociologist Parshad Izad which called for a Cooperativist revolution against the Shah to bring in liberal Federation, increased Shahbanu Golshanak pressed her weak willed husband to institute marshal law over the country which he eventually did in November 1967, 9 years in to their reign. While this measure quelled unrest at first, it soon proved their downfall as even the army, angry at being to confront on the streets people of their own class and background, turned against the monarchy and the Shahbanu herself became a figure of hate as the "Shadow Shah" and the puppet master of her weak willed husband. As the August Revolution erupted around them in 1968 and the armed forces deserted the monarchy after being ordered to fire on rioters, the Shahbanu desperately tried to persuade her husband to stay in Susa and confront the revolutionaries, however her efforts proved fruitless and on the night of the 28th of August the Shah and the entire royal family fled Susa, first to a private compound in Alherd Province and then a few days later to Euclea where they would live in exile for the rest of their lives.

As the revolutionary Izadic government reformed Fars, the royal family continued to live in luxurious exile in Euclea, having stolen 100 million dollars worth of jewellery and gold during their escape and already owning a handful of properties across northern Euclea. Denied refugee in Gaullica, the family eventually settled in Vredlandia and Glytter where they continue to stake their claim as the rightful rulers of Fars to this day. Initially living together in Vredlandia, the House of Gurham drew apart after the death of Shah Farvad in 1974 with the Shahbanu and her family moving to Glytter while her son the former Shahzadeh and now Pretender-Shah, Firouzeh Gurham, continued to live with his family in Vredlandia with both countries becoming popular destinations for the Farsi Diaspora in the following decades. As she grew older the former Shahbanu continued to live an active life in Glytter and was commonly seen at high class social events and was considered a valuable asset by various Northern governments when dealing with Fars. However by 2015 she had retired from public life and spent most of her days living in her Gayneva compound until her death yesterday. Neither she nor any of the former royal family were ever allowed to set foot in Fars again following the revolution.

However despite the hatred many Farsi people had for her during her decade long reign as Shahbanu, she has recently gained popularity in Fars following recent political and social liberalisation, with many women in particular seeing her as a feminist and campaigner for women's rights in a time when they were severely restricted. The television show Shah & Shahbanu about the relationship between the Shah and the Shahbanu was a hit across Fars and was nominated for various international awards.

Shahbanu Golshanak Dhaayla-Gurham, born May 26 1938, died July 19 2017

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by **Alinora** » Thu Jul 20, 2017 8:22 pm

FIS TO TRACK DOWN MONTSIMMARD BOMBER
The FIS has announced that is will be helping Valentiri Intelligence agencies track down Delmar Lavoie, the perpetrator of the May 24th attacks in Montsimmard, Valentir

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Erin McKinley (@ErinMcKinley)
July 20th 2017| Freeminster, Federation

Delmar Lavoie, the 23-year old Montsimmard bomber
Photo courtesy of the Federal Intelligence Services Department of Classification

VALENTIR -

Having been almost two months since the deadly terror attack in Montsimmard, Valentir that killed 39 and left another 243 injured, the Federal Intelligence Services (FIS) have officially stepped in to assist Valentiri authorities with the investigation. Having originally offered to assist local authorities just days after the attack, President Avery renewed the offer numerous times, but then-confident intelligence agencies were confident that they would be able to catch the suspect on their own. This, however, proved false as the Valentiri Government formally request the Federation's help in catching the terrorist, who is now believed to have fled Valentir entirely - with some sources believing that he may have come to the Federation. President Avery has promised Valentir that the FIS will be "speedy and relentless in [the FIS'] efforts to track down and detain the perpetrator, and see that he is brought to justice in Valentir."

As of now, the FIS claims that the track is "getting cold", with most details of the investigation remaining confidential. Surveillance from the Highever Int. Airport show the bomber, 23-year old Delmar Lavoie, boarding a plane that has since been identified as an Asterian Airlines Jet bound for Roeselle, and then to Dixon - Marais' capital city. The FIS has begun "thorough investigations", beginning with surveillance and passenger records in the Dixon Int. Airport, and has announced that they will gradually "fan out" to track Lavoie. President Avery promises that the Federation will stop at nothing to capture the terrorist, and ensure that he is allowed to see justice for his crimes.

Of course, with the Freeminster Attacks of 2008 still a recent memory for Asterians, it only makes sense that the Federation would like to see a terrorist brought to justice - quickly too. "He has already evaded justice for two months" FIS Director and ex-Army Brigadier General Steven Baahs said during a press conference, "we cannot allow a terrorist to walk among the innocent. We will find him, that is our promise to the Valentiri people. We will find him, and he will see justice at the hands of the very people he harmed." The FIS has been working with State Police through Dixon, Eaglen, and Freeman to establish checkpoints, and commercials and signs showing the face of the wanted criminal are being displayed across the country. A $1 million reward has been offered to anyone who can lead authorities to the arrest of Lavoie, and Federal Officials are asking anyone who sees anything relating to the terrorist report it immediately. Citizens with firearms are encouraged to detain the terrorist if found, but the FIS warns that the suspect may be armed and dangerous.

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Insurgent Forces in Marirana "in a state of confusion" after death of their leader, states Citadel. [ 5914 ]
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Big new trade deal with Hyndana "in the works" says State Department. [ 4301 ]
Watch: Freeminster Firefighters battle ten-story apartment blaze - no casualties. [ 3068 ]

by **Kisinger** » Fri Jul 21, 2017 2:12 am

STATE DIRECTORATE DENOUNCES PULAU EMERALD REFERENDUM
The State Directorate of Negara has today officially denounced the Pulau Emerald Referendum as rigged, and a last stand by Imperialists to maintain their grasp on the lands of oppressed Negarans and Coians

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Hamdani Kuwat @kuwathamdani
July 21st 2017| Kota Merdeka, Negara

Ketua Jida Ambonta at a Press Conference earlier today
Photo courtesy of Agung Ary Santoso.

Kota Merdeka -

Yesterday, in the Gaullican overseas territory of Pulau Emerald or Nouveau Anglet, the recent referendum to decide the future of the territory and whether it should remain with Gaullica, join Negara, or become independent. It was an overwhelming decided that it would remain with Gaullica as the vote to remain received 73% of the vote. While it was heralded as a victory in Gaullica and the former Taoiseach Walker of the monarchist state of Glytter heralded it as 'a democratic show of love for Gaullica,' it was not truly a democratic show in the eyes of the Negaran Government nor by many here in the heart of the nation.

The diplomatic envoy of the Negaran Government, Liani Siska Agusalim, who was part of those overseeing the referendum, after returning home late last night has now claimed that the referendum was, 'not truly fair nor in my view that of which can be a fair and equal opportunity,' this also coincides with claims made by many prominent members of the Negaran Elite that still reside on the island.

Earlier today, the State Directorate released a statement regarding the results of the referendum, that statement was,

"The referendum that was held on Pulau Emerald was not as fair and equal as it was made out to be, with several reports of voter fraud coming from our diplomatic envoy sent to oversee the referendum, we cannot and will not accept the results as what the people want."

This statement also came along with the release of a separate statement by Director of Foreign Affairs and Ketua Jida Ambonta stating,

"The island of Pulau Emerald is and forever will be seen as rightful Negaran Territory held in the hands of an Imperialistic Power who wishes to only prolong the inevitable return to Negara."

Many of our geopolitical analysts here at Antara News have concluded that this is the lowest Negaran and Gaullican relations have been in nearly thirty years, many believe that this phase in the relations between the two Great Powers will pass as it has previously and instead become something more of a bump in the road of the relations between the two nations, however several have noted that the Directorate has taken a firmer stance than they have previously and that this could stain Negaran-Gaullican relations for the foreseeable future. Though one in particular, Wibisono Shunyuan, has noted that the possibility of conflict grows the longer the issue remains unresolved and that further NRAN Exercises show that Negara is not afraid to back down if the conflict is to escalate beyond the normal realms of diplomacy.

Yesterday, after our geopolitical analysts gave their opinions we approached Ketua Jida Ambonta regarding possibly conflict, who simply stated, "While Pulau Emerald is seen as rightful Negaran Territory and that territory which should be in the hands of our great nation, we as the Directorate as a whole have decided that conflict with a close trading partner is not possible for the foreseeable future.

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by **The Holy Dominion of Inesea** » Fri Jul 21, 2017 1:14 pm

Association des Réseaux d'Actualités d'Astéria Affiliate-Associated Senouillacan Free Press
Rapport Métropolitain Editorial

Cedric du Pont
Auxillac-It has been said that history can be defined by great men and great ideas. Often times those ideas come in the form of a nation or society. Any common man can point out the glory of Ancient Fars, the might of the Solarian Empire and the undeniable impact it's had on Northern Civilization, the millennia long dominance of Verlois and Althira, or the recent rise of the Federation of Asteria. Recent, of course, is a relative term. It's been many years since the epicenter of global power has rested in the ancient halls of Solaris and Fars. Indeed, the center of power has long rested in Euclea, vacillating between the Althirans and Gaullicans. Many a Hyndic Princeling or Song Emperor would contest this claim, but it was not Song or Hyndana that shook the world with her inventions, wars, and conquests centuries ago. Alas this era too came to an end in the Euclean Great War. The great continent shattered herself, the might of Gaullica and Althira reduced to a mere shadow of their former selves. For Gaullica, it was descent from superpower to great power. No longer did she reign above the world, instead she shared it. For Althirait's power remained stable, not matching the growing nations in the South and East. And while not a superpower in its own right, a newcomer had taken the spotlight in world affairs. The Federation of Asteria, long regarded as a colonial upstart nation, surged to prominence after the war. From 1940 onwards, the Federation was the first among equals of the great nations of the world.Yet she was not the only addition to the roster of greats, nor was Gaullica the only nation to suffer greatly. Nematsujin, after decades of conflicts with the Song Empire, finally managed to do what only the most fringe of their experts thought possible and awaken the sleeping Song Giant. By 1970, Nematsujin was a great power no more. Song instead took her place among nations. And not just Song. Two other great Coian states rose to prominence, Negara and Hyndana. But for awhile, the Federation sat atop the world. While Euclea wracked itself with war and rivalry, the Asterian continents entered an era of growth. The Federation grew wealthy off it's vast lands and educated populace. Satucin began to enter an industrial era unseen since the pre-Civil War Federation. The former colony of Meidao achieved independence and began to prosper. In our very own union we saw explosive growth during the Martellian Era. Indeed, after 1940, it seemed as if the center of power had shifted to the Asterias. But that shift is not to last.

It is the 2017th year of our Lord, and the old world has seen incredible growth and recovery. Gaullica has reclaimed her crown, acting as the leader of the Galluophonie and Euclean Community.While her hard power has not recovered to the point where it stood in 1930, her soft power, the might of her culture, only continues to grow. And she alone remains able to strike anywhere inthe world from her own borders. Althira and its Internationale have grown strong. The educational policies of their union have done the nation well. But again, it isn't to Euclea that we should look. The Asterian Century dawned in the 1930's to 1940's. And as such, in a decade or so, it is readily apparent it will end in the 2030's and 2040's. The sheer economic output,technological advancement, and demographic weight of Coius means has all but guaranteed that the next century or even Millennia will belong to her. The only question is to which Coian state will it belong.

Of all three, only Negara has adopted some of the tenants of Northern Civilization. And of the three, she maintains the best relations with Euclea and the Asterias. Song and Hyndana retain their ancient dynasties. These three Coian titans have the largest populations in the world, easily dominating the the top three. And their citizens and subjects are no longer poor plebeians and peasants of days past. The lifestyle of the average Negaran or Song is fast approaching that of Eucleans. Their incomes and their education are improving immensely. There is no end in sight to the massive demographic growth of these states, even as Euclea and Asteria see their growth slow. It is undeniable that the center of global power will soon shift to the economic and demographic titans of the south. The only question is will these three Coian States continue into their century united in peace or divided by war.

The Question that faces Senouillac, our beautiful union, is how we will handle the setting sun of Asteria and the rising sun of Coius. The Union is already involved with Hyndana, through their development bank. We have decent ties with the state of Negara, for she is a shining beacon of democracy. Yet, as seen with the new resolution in Nouveau Anglet, the relations between Negara and Gaullica, and therefore Senouillac and Negara, does have strains. Songguo is not an option for development of relations, as the nation was, despite their claims, directly involved in the assassination of the beloved Ambassador Urbain and his child. Therefore, it is obvious that Hyndana is the choice that the Union must make. Improving relations with Hydana should define the mission of the Directorate of External Affairs. Our companies and our banks must invest in this nation to secure our position in the future world. Without a mutually beneficial relationship with one of these titans, Senouillac will see itself slowly pushed out of its position in global relation.

Le Journal du Travailleur Editorial

Marie Orleans
Bourgonne- In our history tomes and literature, we often see eras defined by the nation or nations that dominated the era. The Gaullican Century, the Solarian Era, the Asterian Century. The distinction between these eras is only that of which nation oppresses the proletariat the most effectively. From the palace economies built on the backs of slavery in Fars and Solaris, to the feudal states of Euclea and Althira in the medieval era to the capitalist regimes of Gaullica and Asteria, we see the world move from one form of class and economic slavery to another. Even today, in our supposedly enlightened and progressive global community, we see that the mantle of most efficient oppressors has moved from Asteria to Coius. The capitalists and globalists would have us believe that by moving our industry to Coius we have created a mutually beneficial arrangement, one by which they get jobs and we get goods. But this is all a trap laid out by the multi-billion dollar megacorporations of world. When Fren Martel, God Bless his Soul, and his father Jacob Martel ruled this nation, they did everything in their power to resist the urge of 'globalism'and 'internationalism'. Those great defenders of the common man fought to keep companies small and their political power diminished. But in the year since Fren Martel's death, we've seenan uptick in the rise of Senouillacan companies approved to relocate certain branches to Coian nations. The claim that by working where labor is cheap to provide cheaper goods to our consumer markets is a true yet deadly phrase. Yes, it is true that goods will be cheaper. But these cheap goods come at the cost of Senouillacan jobs and they drive down the value of the Senouillacan Labor market. But this trade is of no benefit to Coius, for they will never see their wages rise in-line with the Union, for then the goods will no longer be cheap to produce. By stripping jobs away from educated Senouillacan citizens and using a massive influx of Coian workers to drive down the value of our labor even more, the globalists and capitalists are using intra-class-warfare to keep the workers of the world down. We must resist the erosion of Senouillacan industry and the Union middle class by these megacorporations at every turn. If we fail to do so,it is likely that we will see the workers cast into economic slavery and all the progress of the past decades cast aside into the waste bins of history.

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by **Liecthenbourg** » Fri Jul 21, 2017 1:55 pm

VERLOIS DEFENDS LEGITIMACY OF THE NOUVEAU ANGLET REFERENDUM
Vallette: "The referendum was conducted in a fair, open and democratic manner. There was no foul play or suppression involved."

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Antoinette Giourd (@agiourd)
^{21 July 2017 | Verlois, Gaullica}

Vallette had helped draft the guidelines of the referendum, as had Ketua Jida Ambonta, the Director of Negara.
Photo courtesy of Joanna Demarq

Verlois, Gaullica -

The tension between Gaullica and Negara continues to rise as the latter disputes the legality and validity of the referendum regarding Nouveau Anglet's sovereignty. Despite the relative support from the Eastern world, such as from Glytter - where the former Taoiseach Alexis Walker dubed it as a "democratic show of love for Gaullica" - the Negaran government has rooted itself into a position of denial. Director Ambonta of Negara stated that:

"The referendum tha was held on Pulau Emerald was not as fair and equal as it was made out to be, with several reports of voter fraud coming from our diplomatic envoy sent to oversee the referendum, we cannot and will not accept the results as what the people want."

Mrs. Yubi, the chairperson and campaign leader of "Negarans Unite!", has supported the claims of the Directorate. Emboldened by the calls from Kota Merdeka, she too has contested the results of the referendum, citing them as "the last throw of the imperial die in Coius" and a "last ditch effort for Gaullica to exert her cultural hegemony over the downtrodden Negarans."

Mr. Oratmangoen, the head of the "Gaullicans of Nouveau Anglet", called these claims "utterly credulous and unfair to the Gaullicans on the isle who voted, in this free, fair and open election. You are telling people their votes do not matter because they do not fall into your bracket, or allegiance."

The Gaullican government has carefully responded to the statements of the Directorate. Jean Vallette, the President of Gaullica, issued a statement this morning "urging Negara to come to open concise dialogue." He reaffirmed in his belief that the "elections were free, open and fair." and "that there was no tampering of the results by any external party. The referendum confided to the agreements put in place three months ago between Kota Merdeka, Verlois and the Community of Nations." When asked about the notion of the relations between Gaullica and Negara deteriorating rapidly, Vallette urged that "we wish the Negarans no ill will, yet we merely ask them to understand that the referendum was conducted in a fair, open and democratic manner. There was no foul play or suppression involved." When the issue of potential conflict arose, Vallette dismissed the claims rapidly and stated that "Mr. Ambonta is a reasonable man. He has already dismissed conflict, and this makes him a very reasonable and respectable many; a fitting head of state. His commitment to discussion and dialogue, above all, should be held sacrosanct. I feel, given his comments, we are going to be able to have a progressive dialogue on the isle."

Augustin de Troumpe, Gaullica's Foreign Minister, issued similar statements over his newfound favourite medium of communication; Twitter. He tweeted that "Gaullica has a commitment to Nouveau Anglet, especially with the recent referendum. Yet this does not mean we can not discuss and sit down with Negara over any grievances they may have. We are, after all, trade partners."

The referendum, which had its guidelines drawn by a tripartite agreement between Verlois, Kota Merdeka and the Community of Nations, saw to give the "residents of Nouveau Anglet/Pulau Emerald" the 'greatest amount of options available.' These included remaining with Gaullica, joining Negara, independence and even joint-sovereignty. Yet this latter option polled, and received, negligible amount of the votes. It does seem to reflect that the isle has become increasingly polarised. It can bee see that not only will relations between Gaullica and Negara be strained from henceforth, until who knows when, but it is likely to assume that politics on the isle will devolve to this issue as well. Only time will tell who will win, and if Gaullica may see individuals in its lower house who do not even wish to be there.

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by **Caltarania** » Fri Jul 21, 2017 4:40 pm

NOUVEAU PALAU WHAT-NOW?
As tensions rise between Gaullica and Negara over the sovereignty of a Sublustrian island, Dyithwr Jybith nails general Althiric opinion on the subject

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Büylr Lyciaserür Diwerü (@LyciaserürDiwerü)
21 July 2017 | Dorak, Althira

Mr. Dyithwr delivers his speech at the Lonely Hearth Producers' Association annual conference in his hometown of Dorak.
Photo courtesy of the Ylyath Llyr Photography Department.

DORAK, ALTHIRA -

A phrase uttered by Dyithwr Jybith, a politician and Congressman for the New Movement, has risen to national prominence today.

In a keynote speech given to the Lonely Hearth Producers' Association at their annual conference in his hometown of Dorak, the "rising star" politician gave an off-hand comment relating to the controversy regarding the recent referendum to have taken place on the island known to the as Nouveau Anglet or Palau Emerald.

When asked about his opinion on the sovereignty of the island, he made his personal view - and the view of a large number of Althirians - clear; he did not care.

"Nouveau Palau what-now?" he said in response, to the cheerful laughter of the crowd he was addressing.

"This is clearly a Gaullo-Negaran dispute" he later clarified in a press meeting. "I do not care who runs the island, most Althirians dont care who runs the island, and i'd wager the government doesn't care who runs the island either."

The phrase soon went viral on the internet. Althiric-speaking Twitter was swamped with #PalauWhatNow?, and Jybith's Facebook page exploded into activity.

Many younger users started circulating poorly edited "image macros" containing a picture of Jybith's face with the phrase "Palau What-Now?" written below in white text.

Many commentators have indicated that this is no surprise, and that his involvement in the political sphere is likely to increase in the coming weeks.

When asked about the growing youth involvement in his political career, the politician joyfully responded.

"I think it's great!" he said. "I really do. I love when people get involved in politics, especially young people, and I hope they continue their involvement." he said.

All the buzz around Dyithwr Jybith aside, the issue of the island remains. The Althirian government has yet to issue a formal statement on the issue; and it seems unlikely that they will.

Althira has strong ties to both Negara and Gaullica, and would not wish to strain either by being perceived as siding with one over the other.

It is possible, however, that the government of the Union will have to chose a side at some point; who that side would be remains unclear.

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by **Vredlandia** » Sat Jul 22, 2017 4:52 am

"MURDEROUS" - Constitutional debt brake forces hard choices on Seneschal Kloth

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Anton Graf Flottreiter (@grafflottreiter)
22nd of July 2017 | Eldburg, Vredlandia

Seneschal Raivo Kloth at a Cabinet meeting (archive)
Photograph courtesy of Rolf Flitzer

Eldburg, Vredlandia - On Wednesday, the National Assembly granted Seneschal Kloth one of his major wishes: A constitutional debt brake. The Assemblymembers nearly unanimously decided to follow the Seneschal's argument and election slogan that "decreasing debt means increasing freedom". This stunning victory sets the Seneschal on course for another term -- If he can manage the inevitable fallout well. Because if one thing is certain, it's that major cuts will have to be made to the budget.

The Vredlandian balance is fundamentally built on making everyone happy, usually in the form of increasing their budget. Kloth's successor (of Weranian origin) had that in mind when he bailed out shipyards in the North-West, which are a major employment factor for the local Vreden inhabitants. Numerous other successors knew how the game was played too. Raivo Kloth now seems to be the first Seneschal in decades to turn around this worrying trend, and while his followers and media outlets still widely celebrate him for this "brave" (Vredensund Courier) and "liberating" (Patriotic Vredlandia) choice, few citizens actually know what this debt brake means for them personally.

A brave choice would be raising taxes for the wealthy and businesses, but the Eldburg system is fed by the hands of lobbyists and doesn't seem like it wants to be "liberated".

Instead, Political Eldburg seems intent to introduce the harshest austerity measures Vredlandia has seen possibly since the end of the Great War. One source close to the Seneschal claimed that the government could want to cut some social services by more than half of their budget. "Vredlandians are getting old, so if we said like: 'Hey, you should work until you're 62, but then the State will take care of you until you're 70', that could save us a lot of money in the long run. I'm not saying that's the strategy right now, but we need to start thinking like that. We can't always pay more, more, more and nothing comes in", the source told us.

The issue with that idea, of course, is not the cut of five years to the working age -- it's the limit to social services to the age of 70. Already, Vredlandian life expectancy is at 82 years, and the years beyond 70 rapidly become ever more fragile physically and mentally. If the State didn't consider it their responsibility anymore, that would save them a lot of money indeed. But all the unions we contacted cried "murder". According to them, such cuts would inevitably drive the elderly to suicide.

Our source also confirmed that there would be a five year break to increasing the defense budget, claiming that was all they could do. "Social care, education, culture: Cut them and everyone will be a little angry. But have a Vreden origin Seneschal cut the military budget, a huge issue to ethnic Weranians, and the country would burn."

All Cabinet officials declined to comment for this article. The Unity Party's General Secretary said he was not available for interview either, but commented that the Party was watching any move to cut vital areas with caution and that they would be able to say more once the government comes forward with their new budget. All the Assemblymembers we reached argued the same. This unanimous silence is a friendly nod to the Seneschal, it allows him to wallow in the celebrations of his parliamentary success.

It should also be a warning, though. If they're not willing to stand in for any of these cuts now, who knows whether they will later.

There is an old saying in Vredlandia: The best fisher remains the sea. The saying likely has its origins in or around Kloth's very own hometown of Vredensund, where it served as a warning to fishermen not to celebrate their catch before they returned to the shore, for many of them stayed lost at sea. The Seneschal cought a very big fish with the debt brake. If he makes it back to the village, he'd surely be celebrated. But he would be well reminded that he still needs to navigate to the shore. He is sure to hit many waves on the way.

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by **Caltarania** » Sat Jul 22, 2017 5:28 am

'SUMMER IN THE CITY' LINE-UP ANNOUNCED
Byrdiy Dyfith, Alizée and Purple Day are among the headline acts in the event's musical sphere.

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Eylgylr Eylgkywil Iykhel (@Mr.Eylgkywil)
22 July 2017 | Ark, Althira

The gathering, existing in some form since the late 50s, brings together music, film and other culture from both the mainstream and counterculture.
Photo courtesy of the Ylyath Llyr Photography Department.

ARK, ALTHIRA -

Preparations are well underway in the city of Ark for the annual cultural festival Summer in the City.

Festival organisers claim that this years festival aims to be "bigger, better and louder" than ever before; which is a big promise, given that last years festival was already among the largest of it's kind in Euclea.

Today the line-up for the festival's musical extravaganza was announced.

Alongside the headline acts, which this year include Althiric sensation Byrdiy Dyfith, famed Gaullican singer Alizée and the Glytteronian band Purple Day, there is also a large number of smaller acts that will be accompanying them.

The festival's aim "to bring together pop culture and counterculture" shines through their musical line-up, which in and of itself looks like a cross-genre rainbow.

On the festival's main stage, alternative, indie and punk artists such as the Undesirables, Skate or Die and God is Dead will perform alongside mainstream pop artists such as Byrdiy Dyfith.

This year, the festival is not limited to only Althiric artists, either; the Glytteronian band Purple Day and Gaullican singer Alizée are two of the festivals headline acts this year.

The event has come a long way since it's humble beginnings as a gathering of friends in the mid 50s.

Indeed, it was founded by a group of friends who wanted to escape the increasingly conservative climate of the 1950s in the Union.

One of the founders, Sywbtorur Lycias, said last year that he never thought that "an excuse to get high" would become such a staple of national culture.

By the late 50s, though, the event had truly exploded; what was once ten people having some fun grew into hundreds of youths listening to music, playing games and watching films together.

It was not long after that that small time bands, mostly underground artists, began appearing at the annual events to get exposure. The rest, Lycias says, is history.

Alongside the more well-known musical stage, there is also two theaters; one dedicated to professional and the other home-made films.

The festival is well-known for being not only home to traditional artists, of both music and film, but also to more avant garde individuals.

Last year, an "experimental" musician performed a musical symphony created using only audio found in films. The song was, surprisingly, a hit at the festival.

This year, who knows what will happen. Some will, as they do every year, decry the event as "youthful degeneracy", but most will simply want to enjoy the occasion.

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by **Alleniana** » Sat Jul 22, 2017 11:51 am

⟳ | http://www.zabadul.rh/es/15226

Zabadul
News | About
Reform League bombings in Taakjarlas
Photograph of the damage

2017-7-23 11:43 RHT

Two car bombings were committed by Reform League terrorists in and around the centre of Taakjarlas, an industrial northern suburb of the capital of the country, Arhvjata, and a further car bomb was successfully defused by Rhakhataa Police operatives. Three were killed, including a pregnant mother and young child, and a further two, one seriously but not critically and the other relatively lightly. All were pedestrians, coincidentally walking by at the time.

A flash memory drive, protected from the blast by a canister, was also retrieved from the scene; this method of communication is particular to the Reform League. On it, a document was found restating the group's manifesto, which calls for "change of the regime... even at the cost of violence", and "divestment of the state". It is classified as a terrorist group and an anti-state organisation by the government.

It has been suggested that remotely rigged car bombs made to go off in coordination are "a new kind of deviousness" not previously seen in the RL's actions. This is also their third deadliest known attack.

The last attack by the group occurred five years ago, using a pipe bomb on the Bororalirb long-distance passenger train line, where five were killed. Two members were arrested at the time, the interrogation of which is believed to have yielded information on fellow conspirators and other planned attacks and prevented three attacks since before this one.

There are some suggestions, based on preliminary investigations, that there was limited foreign influence in the attack, though it was mainly domestically planned.

Authorities offered state funerals for those killed in the attacks.

All those who may be able to provide information are encouraged by the government to come forward; one person was arrested near the crime scene on suspicion of involvement, but other leads are being followed. Places to submit information on suspected liberal activists in connection with the incident are available through the usual channels, as per the government's webpage here.

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by **The Ecclesiastical State of Tibernum** » Sat Jul 22, 2017 5:37 pm

NEW APPOINTMENT TO THE ECCLESIASTICAL COUNCIL OF TWELVE
Cardinal Roger Etchegaray, Bishop of Verlois, has been appointed to the Ecclesiastical Council by Pope Joseph.

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Julio Mendez(@MENDEZJ)
^{23 July 2017 | Tibernum, The Ecclesiastical State}

Cardinal Etchegaray
Photo courtesy of Igancio Domingo

Tibernum, The Ecclesiastical State -

A new appointment to the Ecclesiastical Council of Twelve, following the death of Cardinal Meisner of Ruhmboden in Weiderland, has been made by Pope Joseph. Meisner passed away at his home last week, having fallen unexpectedly ill. Following his funeral Joseph announced that "he will be given a suitable replacement when one of a calibre to replace his theological brilliance can be found." Meisner, who was noted for his arch-conservative views had been serving on the Council since his appointment at the age of 63 in 1993.

Meisner's replacement has been named as Cardinal Roger Etchegaray, the 94 year old Bishop of Verlois. Etchegaray is known for his verbal disputes with the Gaullican government, and, during his tenure as a priest, was a staunch campaigner against Gaullica's legalisation of abortion following the Chausson Affair. Etchegaray has been serving as Bishop of Verlois since his appointment to the prelate by Pope Innocent IV in 2001. Furthermore, Etchegaray rose to fame when, at age 80, was attacked during the attack that caused Innocent IV to die. Etchegaray was noted as having aimed to place himself between the attacker and the Pope, but was brushed aside and broke his leg.

In a short sense, Etchegaray is a known conservative but has a tone towards a reconciliation and "softer touch" on divorced Catholics.

Joseph cited that "He [Etchegaray] is an inspiration to the faithful due to his altruism, and his extensive knowledge on theological matters makes him a great replacement for the late Weisner."

Etchegaray, in a statement to Le Monde stated that "I am deeply honoured to be appointed to the Council, especially following the death of a close friend - and great theological mind."

Some have speculated however that Etchegaray is a "safe appointment" and that the appointment is more "a symbolic gesture" than a "move to direct the church in any particular way." His advanced age of 94 ranks him amongst the oldest Cardinals. Some members in the Curia have discussed the idea that "Etchegaray is a bridge. He is a brilliant man, a brilliant scholar and theologian. Yet, he is old, and his tenure will merely serve to bide Joseph time until he can think of a suitable, more long term replacement."

Joseph denied these claims, whilst Etchegaray stated that "he did not care for the motivations of His Holiness' actions, and would merely serve to the best of his abilities."

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by **Vredlandia** » Sun Jul 23, 2017 5:11 am

Minister of Agriculture woos TV audience in new show

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Anton Graf Flottreiter (@grafflottreiter)
23nd of July 2017 | Vredensund, Vredlandia

Minister of Agriculture Carl Woywod (archive)
Photograph courtesy of Rolf Flitzer

Vredensund, Vredlandia - Our Minister of Agriculture dared to come into the Lion's Den, the newest hit show of entertainment mogul Johann von Geldrich* where the moderator and audience ask the guest about their private life. His one-night-only musical coming together with Kat Frey and his intimite stories wood the TV audience, who in return granted the broadcaster a rating of twice its yearly average.

Right at the start of the show, Woywod announced that he founded the Vredlandian LGBT Youth initiative, which will build community centres for teenagers and offer psychological aid to anyone for free. Moderator Johann von Geldrich quickly reminded the audience that Woywod himself was gay and married to a man.

"Coming Out isn't easy, and the fear of negative reactions can be immense. I'm fortunate that my own family is very tolerant, but often you don't know that before you have to come out of the closet yourself. I mean, how else would you know? You can hardly unsuspiciously ask them about their tolerance for LGBT folk. So that's why I hope the Vredlandian LGBT Youth Initiative can do some good and be a crutch to teenagers all over this country, as well as their families."

Von Geldrich asked how Woywod realised that he was gay, but instead of letting him answer he called on his co-host for the day: Musician Kat Frey.

The two share a history, having made a formidable music career together. As a short introduction video shows, she was his girlfriend in their teenage years, and is now actually his sister-in-law.

Geldrich's own role in the show is a less active one from then on -- With his co-host and guest chatting intimitely about their stories, Geldrich only occasionally jumps in to comment or to dig some more into subjects. This pleasantly changes the format. It's more inclusive to the guest as well as the audience, and it feels as if everyone on the show could as well sit on your couch at home.

Kat Frey told the story of how they didn't know each other before they both joined the school band project and grew so close, Woywod eventually asked her out. "I had a bunch of flowers for her, which I stole from my home garden. My mother wasn't very pleased about that", the Minister added.

It is then that Geldrich asked the two to go on the stage, where the show's band was already waiting. Kat Frey and Carl Woywod musically reunited to sing their hit song "Wenn Du Liebst"(WATCH HERE: CAT AND THE BAND REUNION). They sound more mature, but the rendition is emotional and easily the highlight of the show, and nostalgia about their former times gives way to the realisation of how far both of them have come.

An audience member asked why, after everything, the two parted ways.

"We were only teenagers, almost kids, when we got together. She was my absolutely best friend, so I thought it was love, but things start to change the older you get", Woywod confessed. According to him, she herself asked him whether he was gay and once he could admit it to himself, they parted amicably -- both professionally and romantically. Kat Frey would go on to start her solo career as a musician, whereas Woywod first worked for his father's business and then slowly got more and more entrenched in politics.

"The Seneschal wanted to amend the constitution, so our military could do offensive combat missions. Everyone in the Young Pioneers was really angry, but our leader stood with the Seneschal on that issue, so I challenged him." Woywod won the challenge: With mere 18 years of age, he became leader of the Unity Party's Young Pioneers himself. It is a role he would hold until he became an Assemblymember in 2013. Even now, as a 28 year old Minister of Agriculture, he remains a member of the Young Pioneers.

But Kat Frey and Woywod still met regularly, and according to him that's where he met the love of his life: Her very own brother. Their chat about the strain it was on them and their families at first truly was enlightening to the audience and something we never heard from the Minister before.

Shortly before the show ended, moderator Geldrich asked whether and how Politics changed Woywod, and Frey confirms it. "When we come together, we usually need an hour before he is back to his old self. Politics made him more cautious, more reserved."

The reservation wasn't noticable during the show, at least.

We are certainly excited to tune in once more next week, when football star Hans Werner comes into the Lion's Den - 8 PM on starTV.
*Disclaimer: The Daily Vredlandian is owned by the Geldrich Media Corporation and an Official Partner of the Lion's Den.

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by **Liecthenbourg** » Sun Jul 23, 2017 9:47 am

ALIZÉE PLANS EUCLEAN TOUR
The Gaullican Pop Singer and Dancer, Alizée, has outlined her arrangements for her upcoming "Euclean Tour."

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Médard Hébras (@HebrasM)
^{23 July 2017 | Verlois, Gaullica}

A poster during Alizée's previous performance in Verlois.
Photo courtesy of Dreyfus Records

Verlois, Gaullica -

Alizée Larousse, known by her stage name of simply 'Alizée', has announced she will be going on a Euclean Tour following the release of her new album Faire des Ricochets. The album, which has grossed positively in the first few weeks of its release has granted her numerous positions in the "Top 40", including the current #1 spot with her song Une Nuit Avec Toi...

Her music style, described as "Pop" with a hint of "other genres" has taken heavily from all the cultural developments taking place in Gaullica during the post-war era. Taking elements from the capabilities of computer produced music, Alizée was described at her debut as someone who - or at least her manager - was able to grasp at the concepts of "modern music." Coupled with her rather provocative, yet quintessentially stylish and fun dancing, her career has been one of the chief successes for the Gaullican music industry during the past two decades.

In a series of tweets, Alizée teased for "something fun" and something special. Whilst some expected another album, the claims were quickly dismissed when she tweeted a photo of herself sat cross legged in front of the Chrétien Tower with the words "The tour begins here!"

Since then she has announced her fully fledged plans for a "Euclean Tour", hinting at visiting not only her native Gaullica but Kesselbourg, Hennehouwe, Estmere, Glytter, Raglan, Sveltlana, Althira, Wazovia, Weiderland, Vredlandia and Ostrozska. Official dates have not yet released, once again being heavily teased, but fans speculate they will expand from early August to October, potentially even November depending upon the cities visited.

Aside from her new album, fans have speculated (Alongside Alizée's own confirmation), that some of her older songs will "most definitely be performed" during the tour. These include J'en ai marre, A Cause de L'Automne and Je veux bien.

The tour coincides with what has been dubbed as attempted shifts in Gaullica's hegemonic cultural position across several states in Kylaris. Outside of her Gaullophonie, Gaullican culture is found to flourish across Eastern Euclea. Vredlandia, famed for its self-exclusion of wider Euclean affairs, has its only official language as Gaullica. Even far flung Amathia, which many do not associate with Gaullica, has viewed the country favourably for quite some time. The city of 'Napoca' within Amathia is known by many as "Little Verlois", and the ties between both states go further beyond than the mutual alliance during the Great War.

However, even at home some are sceptical to the extent in which Alizée is promoted by the successive governments. Members of the clergy and more conservative elements of society find her music, though certainly innovative, distasteful in some of its lyrics due to sexualisation and taboo topics. Furthermore, some have critiqued her dancing as overly-sexualised as well.

Regardless of this she maintains a popularity amongst many states and her lyrics, music and dancing are generally viewed in a positive manner. The Gaullican tabloid "Voici" once quipped that "In a war against Gaullican culture, in the field of music, Alizée stands against Asterian encroachment as the Gaullican first line of defence and her heavy artillery."

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by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Sun Jul 23, 2017 3:55 pm

BHIG SUMMIT UNDERWAY AS O'REILLY EMBARKS ON FIRST FOREIGN TRIP
The often elusive economic bloc is meeting in the Satucinais city of Gatôn to discuss current events and coordinate economic policy

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Catherine O'Neil ( @cathyogbf)
^{22 July 2017 | Gatôn, Satucin}

Taoiseach O'Reilly snapped a selfie with Union President Charles de Gaël and Satucinais Principal Secretary Maxime Blanc at the summit.

GATÔN – The 23rd annual BHIG Summit is underway in the Satucinais city of Gatôn. The economic bloc, formally known as the Breloux, Highever, Invertwinc, and Gatôn Group, consists of the four resource-rich, largely developed economies of Glytter. Satucin, Senouillac, and Valentir.

The summit, which began on Friday, will end tomorrow. Representatives from each member state will be meeting throughout the long weekend to coordinate economic policy.

Founded in 1995 in Gayneva by Glytter, Satucin, and Senouillac, the BHIG Group expanded to include the resource-rich Subslutrian nation of Valentir in 2007 under the Treaty of Highever.

Oil is the groups largest exported natural resource, with both Glytter and Senouillac being among the world's leading net exporters. Other resources in the groups diverse portfolio are iron ore, gold, coal, uranium, rare earth minerals, copper, nickel, tin, and gemstones.

Among the Glytteronian delegation will be Taoiseach Jimmy O'Reilly, Minister of Foreign Affairs Julie Royce, Minister of Trade Alastar Leslie, and Minister of Petroleum Brigid McMillan. Representatives from the Glytteronian state oil company, Ríoga Pheitriliam na Ghlítteann (RPG),are also attending the conference.

This is Mr. O'Reilly's first big foreign trip. He will be meeting with leading officials from three of Glytter's closest partners. Of note, the Taoiseach will be meeting Union President Charles de Gaël. Mr de Gaël is the first of his ethnic group, the Illacan-Gaëls, to assume the presidency of the Union of Senoul, Monbec, and Illaca. The Illacan-Gaëls are descendants of the old Ghaillish colonies in what is now modern day Senoul and Monbec. Mr. O'Reilly has previously hailed the de Gaël as "monumentally historic" and has called for closer ties with Senouillac and other BHIG partners.

A spokesperson for the Taoiseach's Office said that Mr. O'Reilly was "sincerely looking forward" to meeting his BHIG counterparts.

"Coordination with our [BHIG] partners is key to the economic success of modern day Glytter. Together we ensure the markets remain both free and fair and allow our companies to remain competitive" the spokesperson said.

"There are those who wish to see [BHIG] companies brushed aside and drowned by their competition. This crucial partnership ensures that will never happen".

Ex-Foreign Minister Frank Casarnach described BHIG as "essential to ensuring companies in the Federation do not strangle their competition and install a global monoply" last year.;

However, others have not been as kind in their perception of both BHIG and its place in the world.

While the economic bloc's mission is to ensure "mutual cooperation in order to ensure the stability of domestic and international markets and to promote the economic interests of its member states" many criticize the BHIG Group.

In part, this is due to an expansion in what the BIG Group does. For example, defence has moved to the forefront of the group's focus. Glytter and Senouillac have partnered together on the development of the A-17 submarine and BHIG members have frequently worked together on developing new equipment for their armed forces. War games are often held between the two nations in the Northern Vehemenes as well while Senouillac and Satucin share military ties through the Asterian Development council.

These blurred lines have been criticized by politicians within BHIG member states, expressing concerns over the often secretive nature of the organisation. Some politicians and economists critical of the group have even gone as far as alleging the group is a cartel.

"BHIG is a monster with never ending tentacles. It's a neoliberal cartel that worships corporate power and globalization. This is detrimental to the quality of life of the average Glytteronian and frankly, in my view, illegal" Labour Party leader Ivan Melnikov said earlier this week.

Through a series of agreements signed in the late nineties, multinational companies have become common among the membership. One such example is the Gascogne-MacDougal Company, a multi-national automobile manufacturer. By opening offices in Glytter, these companies are able to access the Euclean Single Market. This has been criticized by some forces within the Euclean Community. However, some figures, such as Euclean President Alexandre Lévesque, have defended the agreements.

Mr. Lévesque has previously referred to Glytter as the Gaullican "economic ambassador to the Gaullophone" when he was President of Gaullica in 2005, citing its membership in the BHIG Group.

Many consider the BHIG Summit to be the Taoiseach's first major diplomatic test. Sources close to the Taoiseach have indicated that, following the close of the BHIG Summit, he will be announcing a diplomatic tour of "several nations".

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by **Hellenope** » Mon Jul 24, 2017 7:54 am

Oluwasegun Critiques Referendum, Defenders
‘Justice, not democracy, is blind,’ Exarch says; Calls for Gaullica to Reconsider Colonial Stance

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Chifuniro Tewodros
(@Chidros)
^{24 July 2017 | Aboisse, Kigomba}

Kwitzambe Exarch Afolabi speaking at the annual symposium of regional finance ministers.
Church Photo

Aboisse, Kigomba-

While speaking at the seventh Symposium of Regional Ministers (SMR), Exarch Afolabi was asked to speak on the Nouveau Anglet referendum that has dominated headlines for the past several weeks. After prefacing his statements with a note that they were unprepared and off-the-cuff, the Exarch proceeded to speak for several minutes, criticizing Gaullica and other Euclean nations for their handling of the referendum, as well as their defense of the referendum.

“In representations of Eastern ideals, it is always Lady Justice who is shown as being blinded, in order to indicate that the judicial system must be impartial. However, democracy is not blind – nor can it be. To blindly accept the vote of the masses is a most dangerous system, which is why nearly every government follows the principles of parliamentary representation. The will of God speaks within us,” Afolabi continued, crossing himself as he invoked God’s name, “and through our elections via the Holy Spirit – as Scripture dictates – but God does not lay out a ten point plan. We must interpret the results and their ramifications, not blindly trust in them.”

Gaullica and other Euclean nations had issued prepared statements following the results of the referendum and the response from the Negaran government, criticizing Negara for undermining Euclean democracy and democratic ideals overall. The Exarch dwelled on these statements for some time, condemning Gaullica and Glytter for “expecting blind obedience,” and raised numerous historical points in both Kwitzambe and world history. “When the results do not go the way Eucleans want, their reaction has historically been vicious, brutal, and designed to inflict punishment on hapless nations or populations. However, when the results of referendums are in favor of Euclean states, their only response is to accept it as if it were Gospel, and condemn those who critique it as ‘undermining democracy.’ Perhaps democracy in Euclea cannot handle criticism, but in Coius, democracy is of heartier stock.”

Following his impromptu speech, the Symposium’s Press Secretary, Itry Enyinnaya, stepped in to dismiss all further questions except for those related to the Symposium and its goals. A spokesperson for the Exarch noted that the Exarch would likely release an official statement, and that without the traditional assent of regional bishops, Oluwasegun’s words were not official Church policy. Similarly, the Kwitzambe Foreign Ministry issued a statement indicating that there would be no official changes in Kigomba’s foreign policy regarding Nouveau Anglet, Gaullica, or other Euclean states.

Nonetheless, the Exarch’s statements raised a mild storm of controversy within the Council of Five Hundred, the official legislative body of Kigomba. The majority of Councilors did not issue formal statements, but Justin Bonet, Chairman of the Pied-d’Arguile Party, condemned Oluwasegun’s statements. A series of tweets were made from his account, critiquing the Exarch for commenting “without regard for deeper geopolitical consequences” and “interjecting where Kigomba does not belong.” A spokesperson for Bonet read his full statement shortly after the Exarch made his comments, noting that Bonet was calling for deeper relationships with both Negara and Gaullica “as befits our position straddling our Gaullican and Bahian roots.”

“Our relationship with Gaullica was endangered by the consequences of the Great War, where we were metaphorically ripped from our mother, and thrust into becoming an independent nation with little other than our faith binding us together. Exarch Afolabi’s statements risk harming our relationship, which we have been diligently repairing for decades now, endangering a number of cultural and economic ties with our former country.”

Surprisingly, there was no comment from Lucas Chaput, the Chairman of the Unified Bahian Front, which has traditionally opposed further cultural ties with Gaullica or the Gaullophonie overall. In the past, Chaput has defended those who criticize Gaullica, while also criticizing the Pied-d’Arguile party for ‘romanticizing’ Gaullica’s colonial history. Chaput, or other members of his party, have routinely sponsored legislation that would formally withdraw Kigomba from the Gaullophonie, the cultural associations associated with former Gaullican colonial nations, citing the contentious nature of the Sanslumiere representatives.

With elections pending in the next two months, it comes as no surprise that tensions are rising between the pro-Euclean Pied-d’Arguiles and the nationalist UBF. Exarch Afolabi’s statements will no doubt inflame the situation further within Kigomba itself, but on the international stage it appears that it will be nothing more than empty words, with no legislative or policy changes that might affect the Nouveau Anglet situation.

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by **Legatia** » Mon Jul 24, 2017 8:42 am

NEMATSUJIN NAVY COMISSIONS FIRST SUPERCARRIER
New navy carrier starts new fears and phenomenons for Nematsu

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Sae Nijima (@S_NJi )
24/7/17 13:40 |Teien, Nematsu

NMS Shinano being moved into Yamato Harbor prior to commissioning. Shinano is the first of its class of supercarriers, its sister
ships remains under construction.
Photo courtesy of Haibara Yui

YAMATO, NEMATSU -

The Nematsujin Navy has added another ship to its registry- Shinano-class aircraft carrier Shinano was commissioned earlier today in the sight of thousands in Naval District Yamato. The first of its class, it is also another first for Nematsu- a supercarrier. In the eyes of thousands of attendees, including members of the Imperial Nematsujin Navy from the days of the Great War and numerous members of the Diet, Shikken Terada Yasunari gave his keynote speech before allowing the Minister of Defense to formally commission the ship.

"Shinano is more than the steel, the gears and the machines that compose it. A ship is nothing without its crew, as a nation is nothing without its people." He remarked. "Shinano is Nematsu and the divine manifestation of our will to defend what is dear to us. Its crew will serve as guardians to those of justice, and as the bane of those who would do ill."

The event, a wide source of excitement, was widely broadcast as part of Fleet Week, which is a yearly exhibition hosted by the Nematsujin Navy where ships gather for presentations in major naval districts, such as those on Yoshin, outside of Teien, Asabiro, and Yamato, as it is this year. Events during Fleet Week include parades, live fire demonstrations, recruitment kiosks, and hands-on expositions ranging from naval cooking lessons to contests in swimming and boating. Designed as a way to boost naval recruitment drives, in modern times it is also an engaging and entertaining experience for all ages. Fleet Week, coincidentally, is a time specifically when large amounts of navy ships are traditionally commissioned.

The carrier has been in construction since 2007, while it was ordered in 2006 as part of a 20 year naval expansion program. It was completed in 2014 and underwent trials that it completed late last year, before being floated to Yamato Naval District to be commissioned. While Nematsu operates carriers, they are designed for smaller wings and/or helicopters instead of heavier aircraft such as electronic warfare and attack craft. Shinano is capable of operating with up to 75 aircraft using a CATOBAR system. It is designed with range and protection in mind, incorporating a layered defensive system that remains partially classified. The Nematsujin Navy's website has called it a "summit of technological prowess". Military analysts have proposed a number of theories about the new ship.

"I believe that it is an attempt for the military to branch out." Obuno Hayato, a professor at Teien's Koburo University in military history , said of the development. "Nematsu's position gives it a strategic position in relation to Coius in general. It can project from itself. This new carrier will allow the armed forces to project elsewhere, into areas of interest." Another position, published on military theorist "K-Roku" 's blog, simply states that Shinano allows Nematsu to gain decisive air superiority anywhere within the archipelago. Many fear the naval uppage will only receive negative results, especially within the Songgou-led Co-Prosperity Sphere.

Despite the possibilities of strategic application, Shinano has found application already in the world of pop culture. Manga artist "Tei-san", famous for his controversial manga depicting Nematsujin ships of the Great War era as humans, released a drawing on his Twitter of Shinano. With the ship already trending on Nematsujin Twitter, the drawing became incredibly popular, gaining thousands of retweets within the hour despite some backlash from more conservative accounts.

Shinano is expected to sail to Asabiro following the conclusion of Fleet Week to receive its crew and complement and see the formation of it's Carrier Action Group, before moving to be stationed at Takeda Combined Station on Yoshin.

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by **Konigreich Weiderland** » Mon Jul 24, 2017 11:18 am

Weiderland celebrates annual Renaissance fair!
Weiderland celebrates its largest annual Renaissance fair to date in the capital city of Heimatreich

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Adolf Hitler (@Hitler.A )
^{24 07 2017| Heimatreich, Weiderland}

The Annual parade of the Renaissance Fair 2017
Photo courtesy of Joseph Goebbels

Heimatreich, Weiderland-
Weiderland celebrated its largest Renaissance fair in its history, in the Capital city of Heimatreich. The fair saw a total of 768,000 people attend, most of which were dressed up in the traditional garments of the time period. The Weider Renaissance fair is known for its authentic cuisine and staged role-plays which any visitor may participate in.

A grand tournament was also held, which consisted of various classic activities such as archery, axe throwing and swordplay. The three best athletes would later receive medals and other rewards for their efforts, at a ceremony which took place later on in the evening. The rewards were handed out by the Kaiser accompanied by the rest of the Royal family, who made an appearance for the first time due to the scale of the event.

The appearance of the Kaiser, along with the number of guests attending the Fair raised concerns over security among the Weider residents, however the Chief of Police Hans Dicker had this to say. "We are aware that an event of this magnitude often comes with the risk of increased hooliganism. However we are ready and more than capable of policing the situation. We are working closely with the Royal Guard to ensure the safety of the Kaiser and the rest of the guests at this years Renaissance Fair."

The Renaissance Fair also attracted an increased amount of foreign visitors into the city of Heimatriech, most of which were from neighboring countries such as Wazovia and Vredlandia. Tourism in Weiderland has always been one of its strongest suits economically, due to the many historical from the days of old. However this event has made Weider history as the largest known historical festival to date.

Kaiser Gunter, of the house Steinmeyer, addressed the public during the ceremony thanking them for their participation in the Fair. He also thanked the organizers for their contribution in making Weider history and complimented them on their "Vigilance, co-operation and hardworking nature." The celebrations ended after the heartfelt message from the Kaiser, who vowed to continue to work with the Weider people in order to make more events like these possible in the future.

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by **Cyrisnia** » Mon Jul 24, 2017 11:30 am

OPENING UP
Masskian Regional Government defends controversial decision to allow domestic and foreign tourists/visitors into the Chernobor Exclusion Zone

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Zannetta Beliukeviciene @ZBeliukevicieneSHH
July 24th 2017| Holuba Janusa, Masskian Voivodeship

Wild Boars, once a staple of Euclean wildlife, roam freely inside the exclusion zone. They are found almost nowhere else in Euclea apart from protected areas and the Chernobor Exclusion Zone.
Photo courtesy of Boris Czykiski.

Holuba Janusa, Masskian Voivodeship -

The meltdown in the early hours of 19 March 1973 was the worst nuclear disaster in history.

One of four nuclear reactors at the Chernobor nuclear power station exploded, blowing part of the roof off the old Social Host plant and spewing out a cloud of radioactive material which drifted into other parts of Euclea, most notably to the direct south. Contamination is still a problem, however, and disputes continue about how many will eventually die due to complications related to this incident.

However, scientists have been surprised by the extremely quick revival of its wildlife. Wild horse, boar and wolf populations are thriving, well above the average Euclean level, whilst even animals such as lynx, not native to the area, have arrived, and birds have nested in the reactor building without any obvious ill-effects (though this is still under much debate), and what few changes have been observed have largely been to the benefit of the wildlife.

This is where the problem started, seeing as compared to the rest of Euclea, the Exclusion Zone (EZ)'s wildlife is flourishing on a level not seen for thousands of years.

Last month, the Masskian Regional Government decided to allow any tourist, domestic or foreign, into the EZ to explore it, with the first tourists being let in on August 1st. This has been criticized by opposition parties and by environmentalist groups alike.

Many members of opposition, such as the loser of the last Masskian Regional election, Viktor Voloszczuk, said the move was both "dangerous and stupid on the behalf of the regional voivode," and that "many of the tourists who visit do not know what they are getting themselves into." Voloszczuk has made a few other statements, mostly regarding the concerns of health officials.

Although many have lived in the EZ since the disaster in 1973, many of these people have an incredibly higher risk of contracting certain diseases, mainly cancer, from living there. This hasn't stopped them, however, and many people still live in Chernobor, and in the affected areas of the Wazówian, Masskian, and Marosenki voivodeships.

Voloszczuk and a team of doctors have attempted to take action and deny visitors entry by mailing out pamphlets and informational materials to local hotels and towns. They have also reportedly sent out e-mails to travel agencies offering to bring people into the EZ. In response, the current voivode, who himself lived in Chernobor as a young child, said that "anyone who wishes to go into the Exclusion Zone has the right to do so. It is up to them, they should know the risks."

It doesn't seem as though this is the main concern however. More people and groups, those of environmentalist and animal rights causes, such as the Group for Ethical Treatment of Life (GETL) and the Gaullican Front de Libération Animale (FLA) have come out in opposition to the move. According to a post on their facebook page: "We believe that this is a dangerous move, all disease risks aside, not for man, but for the animals inside the EZ. We strongly believe that if people are let in, this will destroy and damage a habitat that has been almost completely free of human involvement since the early 1970s, which despite the radiation, has repaired the area beyond what anyone would think. It may be tourists now, but just you wait. Soon enough, there will be hunters, and things will only go downhill from there. It will be quick and bloody."

When asked if hunters would be allowed to enter the EZ, the voivode, Stepan Dmytruk, said that they would be, although this is still being debated by him and his advisers.

As of now, the Hetman as not commented on anything relating to this incident, other than "its up to them."

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Fugund_Benis · 6 hour ago
if they wanna go in and get superAIDS and cancer let them lmao
3267 up · 2902 down
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IWorshipALF · 3 hours ago
What was the purpose of this? Chernobor has until now been one of the few places on this blighted planet where wildlife was flourishing, because there were no humans there. As other creatures continue to be exploited, abused and exterminated, and species become extinct at an exponential rate, I have always believed that nuclear war was the only hope for non human life.
552 up · 8407 down
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Tinfoilhatist · 12 hours ago
Remember me? I do.
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by **Elepis** » Wed Jul 26, 2017 11:04 am

Funeral of Shahbanu Golshanak takes place on Farsi soil
In secret the government allows the former Shahbanu to be buried at a former Gurham residence in a ceremony attended by Princess Margaret of Glytter

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Parima Chhibber
(@pchhibber)
^{24 July 2017 | Susa, Fars}

Majmue Imperial Complex in Khonj, Alherd Province
Photo courtesy Bashir Arsaces

Khonj, Fars-

Following the death of former Shahbanu Golshanak Dhaayla-Gurham last week in Glytter, her ashes have been interned at the Gurham Dynasty mausoleum at the former Imperial Majmue Complex in Khonj, the capital of Alherd Province. The complex was once the private residence of the Gurham Dynasty and was built in the late 1890s as their summer retreat away from the bustle and heat of the capital Susa, however following the August Revolution it was given over to state control. It now functions as a Museum, although the Farsi government grants permission for the Gurham family to use their hereditary mausoleum.

Following her death at her private villa in Gayneva, Glytter, the Shahbanu was ritualistically exposed to the elements for a day and a night before being cremated. Traditionally Mazdaics are exposed to be eaten by vultures, but this tradition died out with rapid urbanisation and would have been impossible in northern Euclea anyway. Following her cremation the Farsi government allowed a small private funeral to take place at the Majmue complex. In attendance were close members of the the Gurham family, however not the Shahbanu's eldest son Firouzeh Gurham who was barred from attending for still claiming the Imperial title of Shahanshah, also in attendance was Princess Margaret of Glytter whom Shahbanu Golshanak had become close friends with following her exile because of their joint work on the Community of Nations Women's Education and Women's Health initiatives. The Princess sent a brief message to SBC News saying she was "heartbroken at the loss of my dear friend the Shahbanu Golshanak, who continued to be an icon for womens rights until the day she died and her legacy will inspire me and women around the world for as long as she is remembered."

Also present at the service were members of the Gurham family including the Shahbanu's youngest son Kayanoosh Gurham aged 45, her grandson Arvand Yazdanipour Gurham aged 30, her grand 32 year old granddaughter Samina Zarileh Gurham and her youngest relative, her 15 year old great granddaughter Farshideh Ó Grúgáin-Gurham. The ceremony was also attended by Deputy Interior Minister Sedigheh Shafagh, the only representative of the Farsi government in attendance, a fact which has been called a snub to the former royal family. The Farsi press was also barred from entering by a cordon of police officers around the complex which was closed to tourists for the day. It has been rumoured that Princess Margaret met with Foreign Minister Cyrus Nozarinasab following the funeral though neither the Farsi or Glytteronian governments confirmed this.

Officially the Farsi government has made no official comment on the funeral besides offering their condolences to the Gurham family. However the Farsi People's Party supporting and pro-Premier Alavi Federation Newspaper put out an editorial detailing the crimes of the Gurham dynasty, including their use of secret police, the massacre of innocent civilians, their totalitarian rule and their theft of $100 million from the Farsi treasury before their flight.

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by **Kisinger** » Thu Jul 27, 2017 10:21 am

DIRECTOR HAZM RIBOK REFUSES TO ALLOW NEGOTIATIONS WITH GAULLICA
Director Hazm Ribok and two other directors have officially blocked any attempts by Director Jida Ambonta to negotiate with Gaullica

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Hamdani Kuwat @kuwathamdani
July 21st 2017| Kota Merdeka, Negara

Director Hazm Ribok releasing his statement to the press.
Photo courtesy of Agung Ary Santoso.

Kota Merdeka -

A shocking new development has occurred in the debate over the Pulau Emerald Referendum. The referendum was held earlier this week on the island overseen by the Community of Nations as well as Negaran and Gaullican officials, of which the Negaran official who oversaw the referendum claimed that it was a fraudulent and undemocratic attempt to maintain Gaullican Imperialism in Coius. This has caused the Directorate to condemn the referendum and in turn Gaullica moved to the negotiating table and attempted to bring Negara to it.

Though, today Director Hazm Ribok and Directors Samson Nadeak,and Hartono Suryadi, have announced that they will officially block any attempt made by Director Jida Ambonta to bring Negara to the negotiating table in a statement released today following a reportedly heated meeting of the Directorate. The statement released by Hazm is:

"I, Hazm Ribok, in my capacity as Director can not and will not stand for Jida Ambonta to attempt to negotiate with the imperialistic Gaullicans over the sovereignty of our island that is in the hands of the Imperialists and has been withheld from us for too long. My colleagues and I demand the return of Pulau Emerald before we will ever come to the negotiating table regarding what grievances we may of had over the fraudulent and undemocratic referendum that was held by the Imperialists and their lackeys in the Community of Nations."

Similar statements were released by the other Directors, as well as several members of the Negaran Assembly, most notably members of the Social Democratic Party, who have taken the stand against negotiating with Gaullica, though they will not be able to block it entirely unless another Director takes the stand with them. This has been part of the trend with the Social Democratic Party who have repeatedly in, attempts to sabotage the more conservative parties, have decided to simply outright refuse to consider compromise without getting an end result that only suits them.

Jida Ambonta released a statement countering Hazm's statement:

"We must not block attempts to negotiate with Gaullica, they are a close trade partner and in the eyes of the world Pulau Emerald is in their hands, for the moment, however we must not admit defeat in the diplomatic ring and push for a conflict in a jingoistic matter such as the Emperors of Berseri, instead we must push for a diplomatic solution that appeases both parties."

Nonetheless, for the time being it appears that negotiations regarding the Pulau Emerald Referendum or any attempts to negotiate have been put off while both sides of the debate ready for the upcoming Directorate Meeting later this week which surely will bring up the attempt to negotiate with Gaullica which will definitely be the cause of much discord as elections come up this November.

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by **The Ik Ka Ek Akai** » Thu Jul 27, 2017 6:46 pm

DANCE OF THE SPIRITS
Strikingly intense auroras appear above Xeyozphete with recent solar activity

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Kheto Fho ( @Fhokhet )
27 07 2017 6:30 PM | Pelore, Cheospetia

Captured recently in a rural region of Cheospetia
Photo courtesy of Kheto Fho.

PELORE, CHEOSPETIA - For the past week or so, Cheospetia has been seeing intense auroras due to an increased flare in solar activity. For many residents, it is a sight to behold. Auroras are celebrated for their beauty in nearly all regions that experience them, and they are famed for their brilliant shine. The history and significance of auroras among the Cheospetic people, however, is not as well known.

The ancient Cheospetic people had many stories about auroras, including why they happen. According to legend, the aurora occurs when the line between the spirit world and the mortal world is at its thinnest. The auroras themselves represent "Spirit Dances",
which is to say a variety of things ranging from celebrations and festivals of divine beings and ancestors, spectral beasts partaking in a hunt, and even as a manifestation of the raw energy of an all-encompassing concept native to Cheospetic mythology. Sometimes translated as "gravity", this concept is integral to traditional Cheospetic belief. When auroras occurred, many festivals and rituals would be undertaken in accordance with these traditional beliefs, and the colors of the auroras could decide the actions of the people watching from below.

A red aurora was typically seen as a bad sign. In Cheospetia, it is rare for a red aurora to be unaccompanied, but it does occur.
The typical circumstances for this are when an aurora is present far on the horizon but is not close enough. Alternatively, if solar activity is not strong enough to permeate certain levels of atmosphere, oxygenated red will shine dominant. In traditional Cheospetic mythology, red auroras are associated with fire and evil spirits. When viewed on the horizon, it was said that there was violence and conflict in the spirit world, or that distant lands were suffering under a spectral blaze. When high in the sky, the Cheospetic people would partake in rituals to ward off evil spirits. Typically these involved sacrifice of material goods, but just as much a red aurora could be seen as an omen of bloodshed to come.

Green auroras were believed to be a mostly harmless phenomenon. Green represented a neutral or sometimes beneficial presence of good spirits. Rituals surrounding green auroras involved welcoming the spirits to each community, laying out paths and lights for them, and general celebration from the people. During this time, feasts would be held, and the people would rejoice in song, dance, and general festivities.

Blue auroras were said to be connected to the spirits of nature as well as ancestors. Under these conditions, shamans would lead ceremonies of grace and thankfulness, people would pray and attempt contact with their ancestors, and reportedly diseases would be cured at great frequency. A traditional way to celebrate the blue aurora was to sacrifice pieces of food, while some communities would even fill a boat with goods and set it alight, the boat being connected to water and air, both associated with blue.

Purple auroras were said to be projections of the aforementioned mythological concept, the energy that binds all things. In these conditions, villages would celebrate their togetherness, criminals might be shown amnesty and forgiveness, and all members of a community would celebrate a quiet unity that permeated their lives. This idea of a quiet, constant unity is most closely associated with said concept, different from the festivals and celebrations that brought communities together actively.

Of course, it is rare that auroras represent a single, solid shade. What must be kept in mind when analyzing this mythology is that the entire thing is viewed through the idea of a mystic veil, a point where the spirit world and the mortal world come together and begin to blend. Thus, one would expect to see the many spiritual energies of the cosmos much moreso than a single shade- that's why a solid aurora was given special consideration.

Now you know the history of the Spirit Dance! Learn a little every day, and have a great summer- and don't forget, when you see the sky light up, take mind of what is looking back!

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