World Cup 85 || RP Thread

[Timuria]

Tough Match Ends in Draw

Cassadaigua 0–0 Timuria

by Tufan Nursultan

The Red Wolves faced group leaders Cassadaigua and are returning to Timuria with a credible 0-0 draw after they improved upon their bad result they had in Demir where they lost out 3-2 to the group leaders. With little in the way of action throughout, the two key chances that fell to either side, which were few in number and lacking in quality, a surprise given how offensively minded both sides are, were a volley that fell to Ismail Burhan who failed to connect at all with the ball and Rachel Schanke 70th minute effort that was collected perfectly by Iskender Nur.

Otherwise the chances largely broke in favour of the hosts, but they were kept to shooting from a distance. Making it easy for Iskender to manage his defence and his goal, with his most solid performance of the qualifiers coming in this match. Timuria only mustered three shots on target in the 90 minutes as they were held to long range efforts. The best of them was a fizzing long shot from Ozbek Sarikaya, who almost caught Kelsey Morgan off her line, but she was able to tip the ball over the bar as needed.

The result leaves the Red Wolves in third, despite dropping two points as Sargossa suffered a shocking 5-4 defeat at home against Grod Island, but the Red Wolves will now sit six points behind Kelssek their next opponents after they came out with a 3-1 win against Audiaslania who now sit in 11th.

What They Said After The Match:

Bekir Altingunes: "Considering how poorly the first match went, this is a good result and more than we expected and maybe even more than we deserved. We'll be gearing up for the return home to face Kelssek, but hopefully the defence keeps up the good work and the next time we're speaking it's after a critical win."

Player Ratings:

Iskender Nur 7/10 - Made a series of impressive saves when called upon and deserves his second clean sheet of the qualifiers.

Ozbek Sarikaya 7/10 - Kept the opposition quiet and actually provided some of the rare offensive sparks

Kemal Colak 8/10 - He was the leader in defence today and showed off why he was given a starting role.

Berker Balkan 7/10 - Was as commanding as usual and has gelled well with Kemal.

Gokdeniz Dag 7/10 - Shut down his opposite number very effectively and wasn't beaten once.

Ertan Renda 6/10 - Had a quiet day, where he was competent, but he couldn't be the difference today.

Reza Karaduman 7/10 - Acted very effectively in his role and protected the defence very well.

Caner Turan 6/10 - Had his moments, but wasn't able to break through.

Vatan Ercetin 6/10 - A quiet and all told, low quality outing from such an impressive player.

Volkan Ayhan 5/10 - Had no quality in terms of his delivery and couldn't beat his man today.

Ismail Burhan 5/10 - Snatched at his chances and looked as if he couldn't handle the pressure today.

Substitutes:

Tekin Yavuz 6/10 - Looked a little overmatched, but brought a different element to the wings

Omer Tameroglu 6/10 - Came on and didn't really change things on the offensive side.

Person of the Match: Kemal Colak - He commanded the aerial battle, was tough when he needed to be and was overall exactly what the defence needed on a day when they were under immense pressure.

Schedule and Results:

Home stadiums will have capacity in brackets

MD1: @ Xuzaqiy W 5-3
MD2: vs Cassadaigua, Dev Halk Stadium (30,000), Demir L 3-2
MD3: @ Kelssek L 2-1
MD4: vs Barunia, Tashkent Belediye Isci Stadium (18,500), Tashkent L 4-1
MD5: @ Audiasania W 3-2
MD6: Bye
MD7: vs Olastor, Belediye Park (5,800), Demir W 3-1
MD8: @ Patistan W 5-3
MD9: vs The Mann Clan, Belediye Park (5,800), Demir W 2-0
MD10: @ Grod Island W 5-3
MD11: vs Sargossa, Hisar Belediye Sendika Stadium (27,500), Demir D 1-1
MD12: @ Res Publica Nova Roma W 7-3
MD13: vs Ziwana, Halkın Güneş Çiftliği Stadium (27,000), Elektriklestirme W 4-2
MD14: vs Xuzaqiy, Demir-Is Stadium (5,500), Demir W 6-1
MD15: @ Cassadaigua D 0-0
MD16: vs Kelssek, Madenci Stadium (27,000), Uryan
MD17: @Barunia
MD18: vs Audiasania, Maden-Is Stadium (3,400), Uryan
MD19: Bye
MD20: @ Olastor
MD21: vs Patistan, Almat Jimnasyum (3,000), Demir
MD22: @ The Mann Clan
MD23: vs Grod Island, Tasova Belediye Stadium (2,000), Tasova
MD24: @Sargossa
MD25: vs Res Public Nova Roma, Dev Halk Stadium (30,000), Demir
MD26: @ Ziwana

[Port Ember]

Blood, Sweat & Glory - Part 8

After the new Coach introduced himself, the team was even more confused and concerned than before. This Kent Block character straight up admitted to the entire squad that he held zero experience in coaching an professional team, nevermind one on the international scene. Furthermore he admitted that he did not even want this job, but accepted it only as a favour to his friend - the chairman of the Port Ember Football Association (PEFA) Peter White. He also made it clear that he was there to be the boss - and did not care to play nice or make friends with the players. This was in stark contrast to Coach Stuart Baxter who dissapeared overnight - he had build this team from scratch, and he has always been the one friend and father figure they needed. A mentor. A beacon of hope. And now he was gone with not even saying goodbye. And this moments after their Captain was murdered by a friend and teammate. The team was in a state of mental distress, and now they had this fellow who appeared not to give a shit about them. Life would never be the same...

Once they were on the pitch to start the training session, they quickly realized that the new Coach was not here to cater to their wants or emotions, the "Major" was strictly business. He maintained a strict military approach to training (unsurprisingly), and the training for some reason had little to no relevance in actually building football related skills. The players were forced to do pushups, situps, squats, jumping jacks and burpees in unison, and if just one player did not execute a move to the total satisfaction of the coach, they would restart the entire cycle. This would quickly escalate into arguments and shouting contests, players blaming one another for their suffering. The 'Major' would laugh and smile, seemingly enjoying the suffering of his players.

The team were forced to clean, scrub and polish the stadium, from the locker rooms, offices to the stadium seats. Complaints regarding this led to extra grueling physical sessions and stress positions.

Arguments between players were rewarded with actual controlled boxing matches (with face and hand protection atleast), or the two players involved were forced to carry one another everywhere for the remainder of the day.

It did not take long for the players to stop being angry at one another, and started turning that anger and frustration to the 'major'. One angry player would swear the Major loudly during a punishment session, the team refusing to reveal the perpetrator - leading to more punishment- yet not breaking.

One day before the first match under his command the major would puff on his cigar with a wide smile after finally allowing the Assistant Coach to handle skills drills with the team. Although the Major did not know much about football, he understood emotion and human nature. The team were broken, they were no longer a team. They were broken spiritually and emotionally after the latest events. They were sad, depressed and downtrodden. Yet, within a week he had turned that depression into anger - into unified anger. Within a week he had turned a broken team into a unified angry machine.

The Major smiled some more, ready to show the world what a little military motivation can achieve.

[Alasdair I Frosticus]

OOC: if you'd like a witness to appear in front of the commission, please send me a TG. Hostile witnesses are welcome.

HOLY EMPIRE HERALD

INDEPENDENT COCOA-BO INQUIRY ANNOUNCED
Holy Empire Captain Vows to 'Get to Bottom of this Controversy'

By Anna Comneno

Holy Empire Captain Sir Barsanuphius the Bold today announced an independent inquiry into claims that Cocoa-bo is an addictive substance, a performance-enhancing drink, or perhaps both simultaneously.

"The time has come to discover the truth" said the footballing cataphract knight. "For far too long have unsubstantiated claims about this pernicious substance been allowed to circulate through the multiverse. A fair and balanced independent inquiry is the only way to proceed".

This newspaper understands that the inquiry will be based in Ordinary Reality, and will travel from nation to nation in order to interview witnesses. This will require use of the Ordinary Reality concept known as 'money'. It is believed that the 'money' - a means of exchanging a form of payment for goods and services rendered, and also known colloquially as 'cash', 'dosh', and 'moolah' - will be supplied by a prominent businessman in Jeckland who has shown a personal interest in Sir Barsanuphius's campaign.

"It's true that many in Ordinary Reality, including Jeckland, have shown a keen interest in Cocoa-bo" said Sir Barsanaphius, "But it's perhaps best if I let those interested parties reveal their own identity rather than breach a confidence".

It is believed that the members of the inquiry will consist of Sir Barsanuphius, Jeckland representative Chad Minett, and Imperial Senator Irene Copronymuso. Senator Copronumuso is believed to be a slightly unusual choice for the commission. While known for her unyielding dedication to fairness and impartiality, she has never set foot in Ordinary Reality, has never met a 'mundy' (as residents of Ordinary Reality are commonly known), and is known for an otherworldly temperament. It is currently unknown if Mr Minett is also the Jeckland businessman who is providing the 'money' for the commission.

"Senator Irene Copronumuso's presence on the commission should make it clear that this is genuinely an impartial and independent body" said Sir Barsanuphius. "We are honoured to have her. We are only interested in learning the truth about this substance, and the senator is well-known for her honesty, integrity, and incorruptibility. She also likes puppies" added the Holy Empire's captain, wholly unprompted. "And I mean, she really likes puppies".

Witnesses to be called to the commission are believed to include Holy Empire World Cup 80 squad member Bunny Snuggles, Reçueçn player Frank "Franky" Adams, Cheergirls captain Meghan Banks, prominent reporter from The Beet David-Upton Moon-Belcher, Electrum citizen Sweet-T, and an as yet unnamed senior Inura Extracts executive from Turori. Several sources have expressed surprise at the rumoured presence of Sweet-T given the known hostility of Electrum publication The Turnip to Sir Barsanuphius's campaign.

"It would hardly be an independent commission if we only invited friendly witnesses, would it?" said the footballing knight. "I'm sure Miss T will make a cogent and noteworthy contribution to our investigation."

With the Holy Empire riding high in the qualification campaign, leading group 8 by a full nine points, now seems like an opportune time for the commission according to the imperial captain. "It's important that the commission reaches a conclusion before the World Cup begins" said Sir Barsanuphius "and now that qualification seems more or less assured - not that Lord Tzimisces would allow us to take anything for granted - this seems like the perfect moment to begin."

Authorities in Turori and Vilita were asked to contribute to this story, but could not be reached for comment.

[Filindostan]

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NATIONAL | BUSINESS | PROVINCIAL | INTERNATIONAL | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | SPORTS PORTAL

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FOOTBALL: WORLD CUP 85 QUALIFYING
Government intervenes again: Filindostan to host Damukuni in empty Gelora Nasional

SAN MARCO - Inaction from the Filindostan Football Federation (FFF) has caused another government intervention.

Two weeks before their home match with Damukuni, Special Advisor to the President Kristuper "Bung" Kho has announced to the public that the match of the Filindostan National Football Team will be played in front of an empty crowd at Gelora Sepakbola Nasional Pilindo, during a press conference with Filindostani president Dorigo Dutete here at Kabunuklan Convention Center in San Rafael. Despite the team having an incident-free experience after winning 2-1 against Quebec in the same stadium, Kho is taking a no-nonsense approach in the decision to put the match behind closed doors.

"We do not want to take any chances in hosting Damukuni national team, after the events at the Campionato." Kho said in the conference. It has to be remembered that fans caused an uproar after Filindostan forfeited their group stage match to the same opponent after excessive red cards for the hosts caused a shortage of players in the field. These riots have caused multiple parties to send their outrage and concerns to the federation, with several nations making sanctions to the Filindos following the incident. Extra security provided to the visiting teams, which has been the norm since the first team to visit Filindostan post-Campionato, friendly opponent Poafmersia, will be maintained for the rest of the qualifiers as well.

Filindostan is building up their momentum once again after a 2-1 home win over Quebec, despite Roderick Yi's opening goal in the 42nd minute. King Tisang scored a free kick from just outside the penalty area in the 67th minute to level the game, which was followed by a dramatic late winner by Bochog San Lupe in the second minute of added time to send the crowd in the GSNP into raptures. This was succeeded by a 3-1 away win at Qvardax, with Ina Teterissa delivering two goals and Shiloh Manurung added another early in the match. Micnaesa Okloen pulled one back for the hosts in the second half of the match.

The Pula Garudas are currently second in Group 15, six points behind Brenecia, and ahead on goal difference to Reçueçn, despite having played a game more than them. The Filindos visit Reçueçn after the Damukuni match, and it will be crucial for Filindostan to take a result from their national stadium as well.

It is well noted that this is not the first time the government intervened on the affairs of the football federation. The measures applied post-match against Damukuni were done actually by the government following a no-response from the federation in answering the criticism of only providing security to the two affected nations in the Campionato Esportiva tournament.

Written by FSNA Staff.

OOC: Goalscorer for Qvardax were taken from BoF72, and previous article's Cavernite scorer taken from latest Copa Rushmori roster.

[Balqia]

Even though the city was calmer than before, following people was hard. When Soletz left the hotel last night an opportunity to investigate appeared, the repeating pattern made things even more interesant and sinister. He walked through the alleys and streets, avoiding the police and cameras as if he already knew where they stood. Both of them stopped in a bar, he stood between some cardboard boxes that were there while Soletz waited.
Some minutes later someone arrived, he didn’t saw him, only heard his deep and hoarse voice.
— Anything?
— No, she kept quiet and didn’t tried to contact anyone.
She? Was he spying on someone?
— Are you sure she didn’t dog whistled to someone? If this thing fall in the press hands…
— I’m sure, the girl is scared, she is afraid of everyone.
Shady schemes always interested him, but he was starting to think they worked for the government. In this case it was better to get out of there.
— And what about Stariq?
Wait, what he had to do with that?
— It was just an eccentricity, they didn’t speak after that.
Speak to whom? He always avoided talking with people. The last time he had a conversation with someone that didn’t involved work was during the dinner… Oh, so they were speaking about the foreigner.
— Well, at least we’ll not erase him, he is a very good player.
The compliment was welcome, but maybe he had compromised already.
— Well, he saved us from a goal. But he is a bit of a freak, the guy don’t speak with anyone.
He was just shy!
— I checked his information. He got bullied during kindergarten, since then he behaved strangely.
They have information on their kindergarten years?
— You have information about our childhood?
— Teachers must do a report on every student. This isn’t anything new, we technically use this to track bullying and antisocial behavior.
He always though the teacher didn’t do anything about that because he didn’t knew. Maybe he should have a little chat with Mrs. Petrovina.
— SO, great match, huh.
— That’s what everyone says. Don’t you have anything better to talk about?
— I just wanted to be polite. And you play this thing, so you should like it.
— When you are a player everyone just want to talk about football.
No one ever wanted to talk about football with him. In fact, nobody ever wanted to talk about anything with him.
— At least we are starting to win the matches. You should’ve played this well during the first ones too.
— We barely knew one another. We are starting to work well together only now
— Yeah, but losing four matches wasn’t really necessary. If you were more aggressive we would be better now.
It’s always easy to talk. Everyone has a golden tip that will improve the performance, rarely they work in the field.
— You are an investigator, what do you know about football?
— I was my class’ second best player during school!
They shook hands and departed after that. The way back was a bit easier. They arrived in the hotel without difficulties, each one went to their rooms. Being in the same bedroom as Torivq was a mixed experience, he was very obnoxious, hearing very loud music and letting clothe everywhere, but at least he was a heavy sleeper, someone could drop a bomb besides him and he wouldn’t even move.
— So, they are after the foreigner girl…
Stariq told to himself before laying in bed. It was almost midnight and the next match was already coming, he should have a good night of sleep while he could.

[Siovanija and Teusland]

Stelburger Zeitung

Sport

An Interview with Michael Ribbeck

The second half of World Cup 85’s Qualifiers is well underway, and tonight at the Nationalstadion the Goldhorns will take on Abanhfleft in a very important clash in Group 10. We were able to catch up with Michael Ribbeck in the city before the match, meeting up with him for a quick cup of Stelburger coffee in a downtown cafe.

Stelburger Zeitung: Michael, thanks for joining us.

Michael Ribbeck: Of course, no worries!

SZ: You’ve scored quite a few important goals in the national team shirt during your career - how does that winner against the Free Republics rate amongst them?

MR: It was a special goal, for sure. We had to fight hard in that match, and so just to see that pay off in the moment was great. I try not to dwell on the past, though, I’m just looking to create the next big moment.

SZ: Your next match sees the national team take on Abanhfleft, who’ve had an interesting record in these Qualifiers - two wins against the Free Republics and Ethane each, and so far the only side to defeat Siovanija & Teusland in the first leg match away. What’s the mentality of the team going into this one?

MR: I think they’ve proven that you can’t overlook them, they’ve gotten some great results against the big teams in the group. We’re confident that we can put a stop to that, though, and I think we’re feeling good going into this one.

SZ: You were watching on from the bench as the Goldhorns played out a 1-1 draw in Bolgano earlier in the week. Do you think that, with the top two positions in the group still very much in play, the squad selection should be a first-choice team every game rather than the current rotation system?

MR: I’d never complain about playing more, for sure! But I think that we have the quality all around that you can field any 11 from the players we have and we’ll have a chance to win. Obviously it’s up to the boss, but we’ve had a lot of success so far and we’ve seen a lot of players having great performances so far that might not have otherwise got the chance - look at Sinisa Gaspersie for one.

SZ: Are there any players in the squad whom you’ve developed a particular chemistry with during the last little while? Obviously there’s been some new faces, but it seems to be working fine so far for you guys.

MR: Yeah, I think we all get on well, and that’s a big factor. Anyone who comes into the locker room knows that we’re all playing for the same badge, the same country, and there’s an instant connection there. On the pitch, everyone knows I’ve got a good relationship with Thorsten (Kramer), but I have to say that Lukas (Tauscher) and Mario (Kogler) have been excellent so far, and we’ve figured each other out well so far.

SZ: I want to shift a bit now to your club career - you had a brilliant first season with Kingsgrove in the A-League, winning the Golden Boot with 21 goals as well as the league title. What enabled you to settle in so well in Brenecia?

MR: We’ve got an excellent squad, and I was able to get down to work immediately and thankfully get out to a great start - 4 goals in your second match is great for building confidence. We fought hard all year, people had counted us out, and so it was a great feeling to take the league title on the very last day.

SZ: How difficult was it to leave SW Stahlberg, your boyhood club?

MR: Obviously it was tough, I pretty much grew up there, and in a city like Stahlberg you have a great connection with the supporters. I’ll always have the memories from there though, winning the league title there was obviously a career highlight for me. They’re in great hands though - Ragnar Targaryen, you saw what he did for them last season already, and Louis (von Stroheim) is a great prospect for the future.

SZ: Would you consider a return to the club in the future?

MR: Of course Stahlberg are dear to my heart, but I’m focused on the current moment right now. If it makes sense at some point later in my career it’s definitely possible - I wouldn’t play for any other Republikaliga club.

SZ: Michael, you’re a famously very private person, never really giving any information about your private life in the media. Is that a conscious decision?

MR: Honestly, yeah. It’s tough, obviously you see the level of fame that guys like Thorsten (Kramer) have -

SZ: You’re quite famous yourself, Michael - those Teussische Motoren Werke commercials with you in the car are quite popular here!

MR: Haha, that was a fun one to shoot, for sure. But back to the question, I guess it’s just tough, I like to stay out of the limelight for the most part, and I think that my family and friends deserve privacy if they want it. So I try to avoid being on magazine covers, haha.

SZ: Michael - at the age of 26, you’re the all-time leading scorer for your country. You’ve won league titles and golden boots in two different countries. What’s next on your wishlist?

MR: Haha. My goal at the moment is for our team to continue growing stronger and stronger and hopefully, fingers crossed, go as far as we can in this tournament.

SZ: The whole country would love to see that, Michael. Thanks for your time, and best of luck against Abanhfleft.

MR: Yep, thanks!

The Stelburger Zeitung will continue to have complete coverage of World Cup 85’s Qualifiers as Siovanija & Teusland take on Abanhfleft at the Nationalstadion this evening. Come on you Goldhorns!

Bolgano 1-1 Siovanija & Teusland, @ Bolgano

Starting XI: Sveteikov; Richter, Thierse, Maksimov, Lotbiniere (Helmke 84’); Bahr, Mihailov, Bliznakov; Segert (Kogler 62’), Romanov (Gaspersie 62’), Ilev
Goals: Stanimir Ilev 57’
Man of the Match: Stanimir Ilev

[Krytenia]

Apocalypse Nowzat
By Rami Niblick in Southport, Newmanistan

AS the national team prepares for a make-or-break match against Newmanistan, it's a different sport that's gripping the nation - and it's not one you'd expect. KBS1, Krytenia's flagship television station, broadcast its first international cricket match for the first time. An audience of over ninety million watched as eleven men clad in sky blue did on their first try what it took our Dragons six attempts to do; win in the semi-finals of a global tournament.

Though the KFA have applauded their small-ball counterparts for their endeavours, behind the scenes there is panic. "Project 87", a project designed to spend millions of argentals on improving the grass-roots and elite football infrastructure in this country, is now in danger of being torpedoed by an almost organic blossoming of the more genteel sport. Cricket Krytenia have announced the country's first professional cricket league, will be starting in a few months' time, and sponsors have been pouring in to improve facilities for that sport, taking away potential stars of the beautiful game.

Time will tell whether this is a fad or a power struggle developing, but one thing is for sure; Krytenia's best advertisement to capture the hearts of young sportsmen and women is on the pitch. A win against their rivals in sky blue will not only improve their chances of winning the World Cup, it will divert the public's attention away from the boundary rope and back towards the touchline. Onward!

[Jeckland]

JECKLAND LOSE IN CONTROVERSIAL CLASH

Jeckland lost 1-0 at home to Sajnur at Jecken Stadium to damage their aspirations in World Cup Qualifying.

The Spuds were playing their second game in a row in Rack City, following the 4-2 win against Porticalia that ended the first half of the campaign on a high note. The game looked to be far less entertaining on this occasion, with both sides looking tetchy in the opening exchanges.

Sajnur were the team always more likely to press for three points despite being the away team, with their higher world ranking and position in the group table meaning they both expected and needed to get the three points. Jeckland however were not shying away from trying to win the ball back and start attacks, with the team looking to put in some strong performances to warrant a Cup of Harmony invite or maybe even something more with the race for second place looking open.

Down had the first real chance of the game for the visitors, smashing a shot straight at Clemens where he could really have done better. Martel had the closest thing to a Jeckish response, beating two players before being tackled by a third in the penalty area. With the game looking a far cry from the goalfest on the opening day, Naulo once again caused trouble for the Spuds, breaking free of marker Lovell to make a near post run to flick home a cross. Often in this tournament opposition goals have elicited a response from the Spuds, but none was forthcoming before the break.

After half time though, the momentum of the game shifted. Through necessity by being behind, Jeckland began to try and exploit the spaces left by Sajnur’s attacking style, playing quick balls forward into the channels for Dane and Martel to chase. However, the former was having a torrid time on the left wing and was soon hooked for Forest, who provided the best Jeckland chance of the game to date with a cutback to Stack that was well blocked by the covering defender Jana.

Then, on the sixty eighth minute the big controversial moment came. A deliciously floated Sanderson corner looked to be destined for the head of Gilbert, only for the Jeckish captain to fall to the ground after his marker Jana clutched at his shoulder. Despite this appearing to be a stonewall penalty for shirt pulling, the referee instead opted to wave play on, to the fury of the Jeckish players. Martel in particular was vociferous in his complaints, receiving a yellow card before having to be dragged away by team mates before he could make the situation worse for itself.

The last twenty minutes passed without much incident, with the Jeckish momentum seemingly killed by the penalty decision. Jeckland will face a bye day next before heading to Natanians and Nosts, a nation now above them in the table and who drew with the Spuds in Jeckland last time out.

Kayden Ross: “Of course it was a penalty, but that’s not the point for me. The point is the decision had been made and we should have moved on and accepted it. Instead we let it affect our play when we could easily have come back into that game in the time we had left. This is a young team though and this is how they learn these lessons.”

ELSEWHERE IN GROUP 1

Sajnur’s win ended up meaning very little in the qualification race, with Audioslavia beating TJUN-ia, Astograth beating Necosia, and New Lusitania beating Muradil to ensure no ground was gained or lost in that fight. Natanians and Nosts defeated Porticalia and Villablanca managed the double over Euran Oceania Territories.

RESULTS

Necosia 1–2 Astograth
New Lusitania 1–0 Muradil
TJUN-ia 0–1 Audioslavia
Villablanca 4–2 Euran Oceania Territories
Natanians and Nosts 1–0 Porticalia
Jeckland 0–1 Sajnur

TABLE

*  Group 1                                     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Turori                                       12   12   0   0    43   10  +33    36
 2 Audioslavia                                  13    8   1   4    17    6  +11    25
 3 Sajnur                                       13    7   4   2    31   23   +8    25
 4 Astograth                                    13    6   5   2    20    9  +11    23
 5 New Lusitania                                13    6   4   3    31   23   +8    22
 6 Natanians and Nosts                          13    5   4   4    18   21   −3    19
 7 Jeckland                                     13    5   3   5    24   23   +1    18
 8 Porticalia                                   13    3   4   6    13   23  −10    13
 9 Villablanca                                  13    3   4   6    14   25  −11    13
10 Muradil                                      13    3   3   7    17   25   −8    12
11 TJUN-ia                                      13    2   5   6    24   29   −5    11
12 Euran Oceania Territories                    13    3   2   8    22   36  −14    11
13 Necosia                                      13    0   3  10    17   38  −21     3

Not much change here, with the four horse chasing pack gaining three points on Turori on their bye day. Natanians and Nosts moved above Jeckland after their win, with the teams below tightly clustered bar Necosia.

MATCHDAY 15 FIXTURES

Sajnur (3rd) vs. Natanians and Nosts (6th) - N&N are one of the teams who keeps busting predictions, but it would be stupid not to back Sajnur here, surely?

Porticalia (8th) vs. Villablanca (9th) - Same number of points means this could go either way - though the hosts probably have the edge.

Euran Oceania Territories (12th) vs. TJUN-ia (11th) - Two inconsistent sides close to each other in the table - anything could happen.

Audioslavia (2nd) vs . New Lusitania (5th) - A huge match in the race for qualification, with the away side needing the win more which could play into the Bulls hands (do bulls have hands?)

Muradil (9th) vs. Nicosia (13th) - Muradil will have to see themselves as favourites here.

Astograth (4th) vs. Turori (1st) - It’s the overacheivers vs. the highest achievers, but betting against Turori at this stage is silly.

The Spuds have a bye day on this occasion.

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THE CHICKEN CHRONICLES - PART SEVEN

Woody Hamm faced an interesting dilemma.

As the funder of an inquiry into Cocoa-bo, he had been asked to provide a member to preside over it. This was of course good news - influence over the potential future of Cocoa-bo had been exactly what he wanted, but this was not an endeavour he had undertaken with any assistance. This was also something he had hoped to do anonymously - his name being on this could reflect badly on Jecken. So that ruled him out of appearing in any public form.

So he’d have to send someone to represent his interests. However, with it now being known to the public that a Jeckish businessman was the man behind the money, he had to be extra careful. He couldn’t, for instance, ask anyone working at Jecken to do the job - it would be way too obvious. This also ruled out real life friends, and possibly business partners as well. This was tricky.

However, he thought he had found the man for the job. Chad Minett was a notorious investor in Jeckland, known for his magnificent portfolio of company stakes across many sectors. He had a known stake in Jecken, but Hamm did not see this being an issue - he had irons in so many fires, the media would never be able to tell which business was behind this. Merritt walked into Hamm’s study now, scratching his resplendent grey moustache as he reclined into a seat.

“Well, what’s all this about then?” said Chad. “Calling me to your house unexplained at this hour? This better be good.”

“Are you familiar with Cocoa-bo, Chad?” asked Woody

“Yes, I am. Quite the powerhouse in their industry, aren’t they?”

“Yes, although there have recently been some doubts cast on the integrity of the company. Some have said that their drinks include addictive substances, as well as some that enhance sporting performance.”

“I saw that, apparently a Jeckish business person is funding an inquiry into it. Aha!” said Chad, putting two and two together. “I see what you’re doing. Where do I come in?”

“I need somebody on my side to be on the inquiry. I’ve secured the position, but obviously I can’t fill it myself. That is exactly where you come in.”

“But surely they’ll think it’s me funding it?”

“Nope, we will make it abundantly clear. This is, at least to the public, an independent and unbiased enquiry, so for you to have any involvement in funding would be seen as a reason not to have you involved in the decision. You’ve got your fingers in enough pies that nobody will pin this on me, but you’re close enough that I know I can trust you. Plus if this shit works, Cocoa-bo plummets, and Jecken can rise - which will net you quite the return on your investment, as I’m sure you don’t need reminding.”

“Woody, you make a very good case. I’m in.”

[Kohnhead]

Kohnhead get two more wins to keep Cinderella story alive



The Brains hosted Gyatso-kai at Orange Bull Arena for their first game of the second go round of the group. The Bisons have had an awful qualifying to put it lightly for a team that's over 100 rankings ahead of Kohnhead. The team originally played to a draw in their first meeting. This was before we knew how good Kohnhead would be and I was pleasantly surprised with Kohnhead's performance the first time around. This time I was expecting a win and The Brains delivered.

The game started out with The Brains playing extremely well, especially the midfield trio of Laker, Rallyton, and Henderson. In the 13th minute The Brains got their best chance of the early parts of the game. Linus Rallyton had the ball at about midfield. He played a long ball down the line for Korkson who played a cross into the box for Laker. Laker launched a header at the goal and beat the keeper but alas it hit the woodwork and bounced out of bounds.

The game would remain scoreless until the 61st minute when Erin Maltos drew a penalty, and Korkson would put the kick right down the middle fooling the keeper. The deep dive for Korkson is coming soon in one-two days. Newcastle again had a clean sheet making that 4 in 7 games since his return and Callie Porsha is settling in for the defense, as she had her best game yet against The Bisons and The Brains rolled into third place of the group 2 table and and were only losing to Drawkland the second place team in head to head and goal differential with the two level in terms of points.

Going up against Donnacona, Aaron Korkson certainly remembered the fight he had with Israel Kaur in their first match between the two. He downplayed the significance of the fight saying "Israel and I we talked, emotions were just high we both overeacted. I don't expect it to be a problem in our next match against them. I apologized for my part in the fight, bad mistake on my part." The two did not have any meaningful interactions this time around.

In the end The Brains would emerge victorious 4-2 against Donnacona their second win against them in the qualifiers. Goals were scored by Korkson, Maltos, Laker, and Henderson, and with Henderson scoring and collecting one assist it's becoming more and more apparent Cogginter will not be given her starting spot when she makes her return in a few games. Maltos had an assist, as did Rallyton. Laker's goal was unassisted as he just stole the ball from the midfielder and ran all the way to the goal to finish to clinch the 4-2 win.

Newcastle allowed two goals but he didn't look bad making seven saves and made no real mistakes, the two goals they scored were just really good goals. t'Son d'Haxli and Ekholm both got goals for the opponent, but the game was fimly in Kohnhead control throughout. The group two standings are looking like this:

Group 2                                     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Kita-Hinode                                  13   11   2   0    33   13  +20    35
 2 Drawkland                                    14    9   2   3    27   15  +12    29
 3 Kohnhead                                     14    9   2   3    29   20   +9    29
 4 Squornshelan Remnant States                  14    9   1   4    37   27  +10    28
 5 Busoga Islands                               14    8   3   3    32   19  +13    27
 6 Torisakia                                    14    6   3   5    28   23   +5    21
 7 Donnacona                                    14    5   1   8    17   19   −2    16
 8 Lochario                                     14    4   4   6    18   21   −3    16
 9 Gyatso-kai                                   14    3   4   7    27   31   −4    13
10 Jantor                                       14    3   4   7    20   31  −11    13
11 Wreckeria                                    13    3   3   7    23   32   −9    12
12 Balaslandia                                  14    3   0  11    23   41  −18     9
13 EGM                                          14    1   3  10    15   37  −22     6

As you can see the battle for second is heating up between Kohnhead, Drawkland, and Squornshelan Remnant States. Kohnhead is the only one not in the top 60 for rank with the worst of the other three coming in at 54th. The Brains are ranked 243rd and are hoping to be the only BOF team to go staight into the WC this cycle. Can this Cinderella story continue? The next game at Orange Bull Arena is a big one as Kohnhead host group later and number 10 in the World Kita-Hinode, Kohnhead lost the first one 1-0 in a close game can they pull off the massive upset? Here is the projected lineup:



-Lillian Barter

[New Lusitania and the Algarves]

STL|Serviços de Transmissão Lusitana
Sport | Football|
World Cup 85

Stop Press note: After awaiting full news from Audioslavia, the double Matchday was suspended to tomorrow's news

GAMA GETS THE WIN
New Lusitania 1-0 Astograth
@Estádio de Nervião, Sevilha

After what can only be classified as a disappointing match, New Lusitania finished the first round against Astograth, which were on a cycle of ressurgence. One change as Vinagrete played in for Guerreiros who was unavailable. All was set under the extreme heat of Sevilha as the match went underway. As the afternoon approached its end the pitch began its great show. Many chances in the first half (which still needed a cooling break by the half-hour) from Jota who hit the post and Paciência who had a great shot saved.The ball was even seen in the net after a great shot by Veiga, but it was declared offside by a few centremeters. Halftime as the evening sky provided a beautiful dusk over a still goalless game. Back on in Sevilha, Astograth attempted to attack early in the second half but to no avail. In fact it would be New Lusitania that would score on fifty-eight minutes of play. The player knows the pitch well, it's Sevilha FC's own Gama with a great shot in from a Veiga assist. Paciência Would still hit the post as he attempted to still prove his worth with Silveira Now almost back to recovery. However, this single solitary goal would be the result at the end of the match but it would be good enough for the Lusitanians to celebrate what had been a hard earned victory in the sweltering heat of the Southern evening. FULL TIME: 1-0

Around The Grounds
Finally the end of the first round and New Lusitania are placed fifth with nineteen points. Turori beat Necosia well enough (1-3) to ensure that they keep their undefeated record at the top with thirty-six points. Fourteen points behind in second are Audioslavia who beat Villablanca away by 0-3 and Sajnur who were on a bye, behind on goal difference, meaning the Selecção are only a victory off qualifying. Astograth remain in front of them in fourth by a point as Jeckland do an impressive comeback to enter the dogfight following a 4-2 win against Porticalia. Natanians & Nosts maintained their points tally however after a defeat to the EOT who are looking to be in New found form (1-2) as TJUN-ia sum yet another point to join them in tenth following a draw against Muradil (2-2), New Lusitania's first opponents and their next match. That first encounter ended in a draw, but in the quarry side of Braga, the Heróis do Mar are looking to be a bit better this time on the outcome.

THE HUB
Goals:Jota (10), Paciência (5), Gama (4), Veiga (3), Fernando (3), Silveira (2), Azinheira (1).
Assists: Fernando (7), Gama (5), Horta (4), Veiga (4), Mário (2), Paciência (2), Azinheira (2), Jota (1), Silveira [1], Nevais (1), Cancela (1)
Bookings: Cancela (2Y)
Injuries: Silveira (expected Return MD12)
Next Match: New Lusitania X Muradil
@ Estádio da Pedreira, Braga

NB: Previous editions my have the name Paciente instead of Paciência which is a mistake which STL apologises for.

MMXX STL

[Maccian]

New Changes by the Supreme Leader!

Glory to the Motherland my fellow brothers and sisters of this glorious nation! Hail Karcermarskásagusson! Hail Ruitawa! The True Bringers of Justice and Freedom have arrived! The Supreme Leader has announced his support for the Lamrejwaffeassot- the Maccian Football Association for you heathen non-Maccian speakers- following the national team overachieving compared to their KPB ranking. The 1-0 win against Sylestone showed that even though the Riflemen are not fully professional, they are still able to go toe to toe with some of the giants of the multiverse.

Supreme Leader Timofeé Karcermarskásagusson announced that the upcoming Maccian Football League which is turning professional will have 6 additional teams, going from just 14 teams to 20. He has also renamed cities whose history have been tainted through being named by traitorous scum such as Petchre Mackay. The following cities will have all their names changed:

Mes Sayans (capital)→New Aredia

Audoti→Jozyatiennamen Square, Bisonua

Vicechappel→Vice City, Aimetraph

Roplexcoup→Roplexham[/b, Brosskten

Landentorin→ [b]Landentown, Den Hauge

Mark Solades→Ruitawaden, Dolblin

Foxclore→Foxlorne, Dolblin

Sexatoom→Missymagius, Filondoso

Cazoova→Calake, Filondoso

Boaconic→Boavictor, Filindoso

Buzurunash→ New Nashzur, Kivani

Sttepjumpen→Karcermarskásgussongrad, Libertieschlarden

Liberatís→Volta, Libertieschlarden

Nilé Lingin→Anpoise, Meissyata

D'tauntchar→Kantojin, Meissyata

Radweight→Samatai, Meissyata

Core Flaks City→Coreynen, Nefospruld

Wellookoomeeneen→ Naijar Town, Nefospruld

Cyenderq→Kinni, Pen Dors

Lossl Salados→ Lú Saitamos, Pusenwaden Amforvet

Barrhenkoemath→ Bakershore, Surdis

Ruccawellmander→ Leisthenner, Surdis

Dammerer→ Mantelmathe, Surdis

Simply remarkable, this is a testament of the Supreme Leader's advanced intelligence which rivals even the brightest of our scientists. He has replaced names of cities affiliated with the old regime and has rejuvenated them. As a result of the cities' names being changed, many clubs of the MFL will have to change their names as well.

Indenpendensia Benikia Romendes has relocated to the city of Fuertzampf in Potsk, changing its name to the Fuertzampf Wildfires. The former Audoti Rifles have changed their name to the Jozytiannemn Square Rifles, a truly noble name. Singlewave & Dropperspear United have been renamed to the Singlewave Surf, quite a fitting name considering Singlewave is a city on the coast. The Heartbreak City Love has moved to Jetix No Will and have become the Jetix No Will Enforcers.

6 cities will be getting a new team that will play in the MFL. The following cities will be getting a team:

Skew Euld Ren, Yesua
Zapster, Wavefire
Zimmerstads, Regryptia
Azure, Libertieschlarden
New Nashzur, Kivani
Moskovey, Ültermensk

Do praise the Supreme Leader, for he has blessed us with his wisdom. He has personally named the 6 new teams. Please see the additional teams along with the ones from the previous year competing in the inaugural MFL season below:

Skew Euld Ren Sinners
Zapster Thunder
Zimmerstads Diamonds
Azure Flutes
New Nashzur Nymphs
Singlewave Surf
Jetix No Will Enforcers
Fuertzampf Wildfires
Jozytiannemen Square Rifles
Regenpluie Soul
Kaylein Psychics
Ramafluora Bloom
Mortvivant Ghosts
Oberblasten Providence
Moskovey Blizzards
Kesha Mystics
Castrealm Royals
Togekisst Soar
Retutenninst Storm
Keva Rogianel 09


The Supreme Leader has taken such an interest in this sport that he has increased the funding for football, with a new football stadium being built for the national team. Children in secondary schools will only receive their high school diploma after completing a sport, preferably football, but basketball, lacrosse, rugby, athletics and swimming are also viable options.

CAPTURED: Projected number 1 draft pick Jake Sexter dribbles past an opponent during the Brosskten State Cup Final where he scored a hat-trick to secure the title for St. Peter's Secondary School. He is more promising than even Amiensha Kiyle, who is seen as one of the brightest young stars in the Riflemen. He will surely get into the Maccian national team if he continues superb form in the MFL. The Castrealm Royals, the worst team in the league last season will surely draft him first, but then again they may decide to draft Pop Greenman and add another shit player with a low ceiling. Only time will tell...

Glory to the Motherland! Hail South Toronto's Resurgence and Willingness to Rule Over Us! Hail Karcermarskásagusson! Hail Ruitawa!

[Brenecia]

Poafmersia 1 - 3 Brenecia
(4-3-3) 20 - Wright; 18 - Lonergan (2 - Shepherd 68'), 22 - Leadbetter, 6 - Mathers, 19 - Prentice; 14 - Caitiff (21 - Parker 68'), 4 - Townsend (23 - Fallon 85'), 8 - Matheson; 7 - Cheney, 17 - Lindauer, 16 - Fletcher
Goals: Cheney 43' 77', Lindauer 84'

Brenecia 1 - 1 Shokpos
(4-3-3) 20 - Wright; 2 - Shepherd, 22 - Leadbetter, 6 - Mathers, 3 - Watermark; 13 - Ridenton (21 - Parker 80'), 4 - Townsend, 8 - Matheson; 15 - Speaker, 10 - Ciogach (17 - Lindauer 61'), 11 - Pace (16 - Fletcher 61')
Goals: Ridenton 17'

THE ROZELLE OBSERVER
OPINION: Lauren Cheney is the greatest Brenecia player of all time, and this is why
Lauren Cheney

You see her. The high-speed low-drag ultimate warrior, streaking down the right wing like a tattooed hawk. Jewellery is supposed to be removed from your person before you arrive on the pitch, but her ear gleams with a 20ish-karat gold stud regardless. You have prayed; these prayers are answered as she hammers her fourth goal of the day past the hapless goalkeeper. You look back to your wife, but you see her already chatting up your wife. You go home. She owns your home.

It's me.

1. The team relies on me
Look at what happened against Shokpos. I, Lauren Cheney, could have played through with injections, but my body was wracked with the torments inflicted upon me by Poafmersia. But no. No Lauren Cheney? Brenecia drops two points. Sorry, Nuada. But let's be real here, who would you rely on to change the dynamic when things go back: me, or literally anyone else? Yeah, I thought so.

2. I've done it at home and abroad
I'd already won everything I could at home by the time I was, like, nineteen. Stuck around a bit longer just to prove it wasn't a fluke, build my profile, but you know, really Kingsgrove was just a stepping stone. The Goldleague is a more fitting challenge, I figured, except apparently I can also crush that beneath my iron stiletto too. So maybe, you know, maybe I'm just that good that no frontier can stop me. How many A-League players go that step up and fall flat on their faces? Loads. Not Lauren.

3. I can do it all
People have been telling me ever since I was a kid, "hey, Lauren, you're short." Like wow, good fucking insult. Yeah, generally though I can shut them up with the sick work I put in on the field. Look at Poafmersia. So many big units in our side, but you know what? Fletch swings in that corner? BOOM, sluts. Lauren Cheney, near post header, 1-0. Oh, I'm tackled. They think they've got me-- PLOT TWIST free kick goes into the top corner. Later on, Carisa thinks he's through on goal-- BOOM, bitches. Blindside by Lauren Cheney. Nobody can say Lauren Cheney doesn't care. Doesn't have the blood and the sweat and the tears.

4. I'm hot and glamorous
Who else has my brand recognition? Probably some form of Cathy; Gryphon, who did her best work not being noticed, or Purrington, who was, let's be real, fat. Not my type. That Nepharan (Nepharim? Nephar? I've lost fucking track) leftback was dating the fuck down. Look at me. Go into Instagram and look at me. Sweating on the pitch or stripped down as a model? The hair, the thighs, the immaculate jawline? Know that I am too good for you, and dream about maybe being lucky enough that I accidentally wink at you in the crowd.

5. I'm only going to get better from here
Nobody really knows how old any footballer ever is, but I'm probably in my like mid-twenties. When do footballers peak? Late-twenties. Unless they're made of glass or don't have a work ethic or something and flame out earlier. I'm not like that, though. I'm gonna keep pushing. Every pore of this gorgeous body (see: 4) is going to be sweating out to its full potential. I'm gonna be done at 35 and I'm gonna have conquered everything in my path. We're coming for you, World Cup. We're coming for you, overrated side of a decade ago. Lauren Cheney has a dream and the means to get there.

BRENECIAN NATIONAL TEAM SELECTION - FORTNIGHT 8
Goalkeepers: 1 - Cass Farrell (Northern Union), 12 - Opal Cairncross (Marketville, EUR), 20 - Scathach Wright (Raynor City United, VAL)
Defenders: 2 - Caithe Shepherd (Northern Stallions), 3 - Deimne Watermark (Northern Stallions), 5 - Garrett Horgan (Northern Union), 6 - Keane Mathers (Northern Stallions), 18 - Sorcha Lonergan (Northern Union), 19 - Morwen Prentice (Farrenton Athletic, EUR), 22 - Finn Leadbetter (Holdenberg, EUR)
Midfielders: 4 - Finn Townsend (North Hall), 8 - Elysse Matheson (Hornchurch, EUR), 13 - Isla Ridenton (Jaglan Royals, SRS), 14 - Esther Caitiff (Southern Star), 21 - Riona Parker (Galatica, PAS), 23 - Ronan Fallon (Newrook City, NPH)
Forwards: 7 - Lauren Cheney (Spartangrad, EUR), 9 - Niall Bremner (Unioneers, EUR), 10 - Kara Ciogach (Lajuno, EUR), 11 - Tricia Pace (Northern Union), 15 - Nuada Speaker (North Hall), 16 - Ceridwen Fletcher (Holdenberg, EUR), 17 - Creidne Lindauer (Cazadores Cathair, AUD)

SCHEDULE
Brenecia 2 - 3 Poafmersia
Shokpos 1 - 2 Brenecia
Brenecia 5 - 2 Andromeda Island Group
Revatnagar 2 - 3 Brenecia
Brenecia 3 - 1 Crystalline Caverns
Emastalia 0 - 3 Brenecia
[Bye]
Brenecia 6 - 4 IA Quebec
Qvardax 3 - 6 Brenecia
Brenecia 5 - 3 Damukuni
Recuecn 0 - 2 Brenecia
Brenecia 2 - 1 Grearish Union
Filindostan 0 - 2 Brenecia
Poafmersia 1 - 3 Brenecia
Brenecia 1 - 1 Shokpos
Andromeda Island Group vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Revatnagar
Crystalline Caverns vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Emastalia
[Bye]
IA Quebec vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Qvardax
Damukuni vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Recuecn
Grearish Union vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Filindostan

[Torisakia]

June 4th, 2020
4:02 PM TST

"Hold the Rope": Torisakia national team using 'Kiragate' scandal as motivation

TOKAI - In the midst of the 'Kiragate' investigation, few have been able to find any positives. This is not the case for Torisakia's national association football team, who is using 'Kiragate' as motivation for the second leg of their World Cup 85 run.

Manager Andy Sanders told TNN that when the news broke about the scandal, he immediately thought about the impact it would have on his players.

"[I] knew this would hit close to home for a lot of our guys. Many of them remember when Kiraism came about back in 2014, myself included. We remember how big of a deal it was. We also remember when it was uncovered as a cult, and how athletes were found to be involved" says Sanders.

Sanders went on the tell TNN about how he is using the scandal as a means of motivation for his players rather than letting them get caught up in the emotions of it all. Sanders wants his players to know that even though this event may split people apart, they have the power to bring them back together.

"This whole situation is just another roadblock for our country. [We] have had several issues over the past few years that have divided the Torisakian people, and this case is no different. As I see it, some are angry at the government for potential covering up a big story and some are fine with it in the given circumstances that [they] were under."

"I don't want my guys to think that I'm trying to suppress their opinions. We're human, we react strongly to things. I just don't want them to get so caught up in the event that it negatively affects them, the team, and ultimately the nation. These guys are too poised and talented to let something like this fully affect their lives."

"While 'Kiragate' may split apart the Torisakia people, it's important to remember what can bring them back together again. Every time there's a national tragedy or any big event such as this, sports has been the one thing that has united Torisakia. Take the 2015 Douglas-La Pryor tornado for instance. That occurred right in the middle of the TBL season. A season where Douglas-La Pryor was 'middle-of-the-road' and not doing the best. In the weeks following the tornado, the Douglas-La Pryor team surged to a number one ranking and first overall seed, culminating in them winning the TBL that season. Their motivation to bring joy back to the people of Douglas-La Pryor brought the city together, and now Douglas La-Pryor is one of the best and brightest cities in Torisakia. That's what we're trying to achieve."

Sanders stated that he met with sports psychologists to determine how to go about with his plans for motivation. Earlier this week, Sanders held a meeting with his players and outlined how they should not let their emotions get in the way of their play and how the entire team is "playing for the Torisakian people". He went on to explain to them how they can reunite the Torisakian people by showing resilience, showing that they are focused and determined to not give up in times of turmoil, and this is best reflected by "giving 200% in every game from here on out and not letting emotions get the better of you". Sanders ended by telling his players to "hold the rope", which has become the slogan for the team, Torisakia sports, and Torisakia as a whole during these times.

At the end of the day, Sanders knows that he can only united the Torisakian people if [they] are willing to do so.

"We can expect everyone to be on board. But we're not going to be able to please everyone. What we have to do is get as many as we can on our side and show that we're not going to let this negatively dictate who we are in the future. We can move forward from this. No one will go through this alone."

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[Kita-Hinode]

The alien girl took a bow in front of her new classmates. "My name is Canvas and I hope we can all be great friends by the end of the day!" Most of the class seemed to be at least somewhat surprised but one couldn't help but notice how understated it all seemed. As if they already had met aliens in the past. The teacher shook her hand, throwing all sorts of compliments to ease the girl into joining the rest of the class while Hinode remained on his seat, observing her. Plough nudged his shoulder. "Are you worried she won't fit in?" Hinode nodded. "Well, she's an alien... After the Sulsu incident from back in the day, I'm surprised that they're taking it so well."

Canvas took a seat near Hinode, waving to him once she was done picking the relevant books out of her backpack. The classes flew by and before they knew it, they were already on club time. Unsurprisingly, for their class, most of them headed to the sports class. Hinode whistled as he read the list of names per team. "Ah, nice. Still plenty of open spaces for the footy team this season." Canvas blinked, tilting her head a little bit. "What's this, Hinode?" The dark-haired boy smiled. "It's a sign-up list. Our Sports Club fields teams in a decent amount of sports and as such, we can pick a sport to play. See? Everything's here... football, basketball, hockey, volleyball, lacrosse..." Plough passed by them, writing his name in another column. "Don't forget the cricket!" Hinode rolled over his eyes while Canvas looked curious. "Cricket?" Her friend shook his head. "Ignore it." Eastfield, quickly signing up in the same list and the same column grinned at the girl. "You see, miss, he's upset that his footy team has yet to win the national title while our cricket club is the defending two-time champions." Hinode crossed his arms, getting upset. "I'll have you know we got to the semis last year! We just... we just needed a star player to put us ahead Wicked High."

Canvas quickly wrote her name on the list. The three boys were shocked, but each for different reasons. "Uh... Canvas, are you sure about that?" She nodded, triumphant. "I want it as much as I want my next breath!" Eastfield tilted his head a little bit. "No offence, miss, but I feel curling might be more on your pace." Plough blinked, getting even more surprised. "We have curling?" At last, Hinode shrugged. "Well, then... Welcome to our football team then, Canvas. Do hope you're the star we need so much." She grinned. "I do am from a star, you know."

(...)

The kitty walked down the corridors of the hot springs. She looked up to the sky once she heard a buzzing sound. She noticed in the clear skies, a figure flying with a pair of wings. "Huh... I think I took the wrong turn on that shrine. Maybe I should ask someone about it... but the streets are almost empty..." She noticed the kitty but failed to note the horns, shrugging. It was a mix of a human girl and a mosquito. "Eh, hell. Gonna keep at it. I'm sure I can find that school if I try hard enough." The girl said to herself as she flew away. The kitty shook her head, worried. It might be time to follow the master closely.

[Oberour Ar Moro]

Gilduin a la Tache: We're back with Eneour Pique-Pain, here on Quasar Sports Radio Channel 205, thank you again for joining us.

Eneour Pique-Pain: Again, thank you for inviting me.

a la Tache: So before we go we have to talk about the last five games. Five games and 11 points out of a possible fifteen. That's a big change.

Pique-Pain: Yeah, training is much more pleasant now.

a la Tache: But the first game of that five, against Legalese. It was rough first half.

Pique-Pain: Yeah, we were down 3-1 at the half. It wasn't looking good.

a la Tache: So what changed?

Pique-Pain: I have to give a lot of credit to Nycollas Mauranghas, actually.

a la Tache: Mauranghas? How so?

Pique-Pain: So we went to the locker room for the half. Nycollas had started the game, and he been kind of, I don't know, agitated? All game. Jumpy. Lots of head shaking. So [national team manager Gilduin] Roux is talking, and everyone is just down. It's long and rough. And Nycollas just gets frustrated and yells.

a la Tache: And how did everyone react?

Pique-Pain: I was shocked, I think everyone else was. He starts pacing around the room and he's like "I can't stand it!"

a la Tache: The way the team was playing against Legalese?

Pique-Pain: I think in general really. But he wasn't mad at us, he seemed like he was being self-critical. He talks about how he's going to go out and give a damn.

a la Tache: Give a damn?

Pique-Pain: Yeah, like, he said something like "If I get killed tomorrow by being eaten by a lion, or _, or having a piano fall on my head, I don't want people to say that before I died I played like garbage. So I'm just going to go out there and give a damn. It's all I can do." And he just marched out. Just threw open the door and left. He just went to the end of the tunnel and stood there until the half was over.

a la Tache: And how did the team react?

Pique-Pain: We didn't charge after him or anything, but I think we all internalized it. We came out and just gave a damn. We were more disciplined. Put everything together to score a second goal. And when Legalese scored their fourth goal, we didn't panic we didn't argue, Laurens [Desainctvictori, goalkeeper] just gathered the ball from the net and we got it to the middle circle, and we were able to get the two goals we needed to get a draw.

a la Tache: That's something I know I've noticed: The new discipline amongst the national team.

Pique-Pain: Yeah, we've been playing positively, I think what Roux has been trying to communicate with us is sinking in more. We're playing with more patience.

a la Tache: And this was inspired, you think, by Mauranghas. He's been on rosters but hasn't played in all five games. What kind of impact has he had since then?

Pique-Pain: He's actually been a real locker room leader. He'll talk about living every day like it's your last. It really focuses on just putting what you have into the game at hand.

a la Tache: Do you think that'll help against Omerica?

Pique-Pain: We drew at home against them earlier, we'll certainly try to keep the good run going.

a la Tache: That's been Eneour Pique-Pain, winger for the Oberour Ar Moro national team. Thanks for joining us.

Pique-Pain: It was a pleasure.

[Alba and Cymru]

The Orthochronica
Chapter 166, "Na Sgòthan" (The Clouds)

In this short chapter given to Diarmuid during his mission to Scandinavia (c. 950), the Dagda commands His followers to forgive others as he has forgiven them.

The Word of the Dagda, as it concerns the Heavens and the Earth:

1 This is My word, and it is a righteous Book!
2 Behold! The heavens were created with precision, and the stars sing together in harmony.
3 And the clouds are guided by heavenly winds. And the birds fly upon them.
4 For the Dagda has ordered them, and He has given his commandments to His creation.
5 So therefore be steadfast in what is taught, and give grace to others, just as the Dagda has given mercy unto you. This is My word.

---

Longer and better RP coming tomorrow. Stay tuned.

[Valanora]

"Marauders had a bit of stumble there towards the end of the first half of qualifying, didn't they? Bit of a concern if the team is stumbling in the qualifiers, what with them wanting to beat their rivals to the punch and be the first team in World Cup history to punch that ticket for the sixth title. Both Vilita and Starblaydia are also on the hunt and you can be sure that if the Purple Peril do it first, it will be another century or two till we hear the end of it. Those lot like to brag quite a bit about being the first to five as it is, can not let them get that haughty attitude from being the first to sixth, just can not have that at all!"

"Oh that is a bit harsh both on the team and the Starblaydi, they are a proud people and at the time that they won the title, it was one of the best achievements in the sporting world and highly speculated that it would be far from their last. Yet here we are over thirty, nearly forty editions later and they have yet to win another title and it has been near on twenty editions since they were even within sight of winning another trophy. As for the team, aye they did stumble a bit towards the back end of the first half but they have blasted out of the gate here in the second half and are now cruising comfortably atop the table. I do feel a bit for The Kytler Peninsulae however, as it seems both the team and their fans had to endure the wrath of a Marauders team was a little upset with the rest of the group seemingly underestimating them. A seven to one drubbing in ones own stadium has to be very terrible for the morale, would not be surprised either if their federation does not also give a refund to their fans that were in attendance for the game. Just dreadful for that lot but good for our goal differential!"

"If it was on the reverse, I would definitely be petitioning the federation to give me a refund after that sort of showing at home, even if the Marauders are the first team. It was a real embarrassment of an effort and one has to wonder if that team has already given up hopes on their campaign and trying to impress the WCC in attempting to get a Cup of Harmony invite. With such a large field for these qualifiers, with so many commenting on the slog of a marathon that this edition is, it is going to be a very interesting tournament for those who are not able to make it to the Finals themselves. Hopefully the Marauders keep up on this rebound trend and vendetta they have against the rest of the group and not have to worry a single iota about that tournament. Their eyes are on a different trophy after all and I will give you that the Starblaydi should be allowed their pride, with how long it has been since they have had success. Perhaps I am just a bit flustered by the struggle that the group has felt like it has been for the squad, even if they are five points clear at the top."

"While it has been far from the most scintillating of performances from the Marauders, this last game excluded, the effort to maintain an elite edge has been there. They have perhaps pressed too heavily in a few matches looking for ways to grab winners when a draw would have sufficed and paid the penalty for that, but the effort from the team can not be questioned unlike some instances in the last decade or so. It is a team that for the most part are playing together for only the second time despite a lot of older players in the squad. Without Fresco, Soldarian, and va Drake to augment the squad, the rest of the players have had to find a way to lift their performances. It has not been the most clean of transitions but it is obvious that they are giving it their all and then some to try to make up the difference. They are replacing legends of the game, not just the team itself but the very sport in which they are partaking, that is no small task. We should take care in how harsh our criticism is and instead praise the effort and resolve to even attempt what they are doing. Not every person has the mental fortitude to try and replace the very heroes they grew up idolizing."

[Vdara]

”You know, AbraVdara and all that”

Following the victory against Monglechabagd, Vdara were away at the team who had beat them on Matchday 1, Lo Santano. The players knew that this was their chance to show the rest of the group that their form was finally on the up, and that they were definitely a force to be reckoned with. Væñøœrëñbérghüïś and the players knew this.

“Lads.” Væñøœrëñbérghüïś began, “We are going to win this one, right? We have to, it’s our job. The embarrassment of Matchday 1 can be kicked under the fridge like the remainder of the ice that comes out of the dispenser, no? Alright, let’s get going!”

The match report is as follows:

1: Horn has been tooted, and the game is underway! Can Vdara get revenge or will they have the double done over them? Find out tonight!
10: Giannakos has dispossessed a Lo Santanoan attacker, and he’s punted it forward towards Lazelis, who’s powering forward. He’s managed to get through the entire defence and... he’s scored! That takes his goal tally up to 13, and gives Vdara the lead! 1-0!
30: Vdara have been keeping possession all game, and it’s probably because they don’t want to risk conceding. No wonder, they haven’t got the best of defences!
45: The whistle is blown, and that is half time! Not much to say besides the fact that Vdara lead at the moment.

The half time team talk was brief, and not really interesting, hence why we’ll just get back to the game.

46: The break is over, and the game restarts!
66: You know, sometimes I expect Vdara to play interesting football... and then they do this. Pass the ball around, and then do f*ck all. How fantastic.
90: Wow, we’re done? Okay, well, Vdara have won, albeit in a very boring fashion. However, revenge is revenge at the end of the day.

At the end of the game, Væñøœrëñbérghüïś snubbed the team talk and instead went to an interview with a journalist from Vai 1, the national broadcaster of Vdara. Here’s what he had to say:

”Well, at the end of the day a win is a win, you know? Not every win has to be magical, you know, AbraVdara and all that, it just has to be competent and won fairly.

“Don’t you mean abracadabra?”

“Oh, yes, sorry.”

“Well, thanks for your time!”

“No problem, cheers!”

Vdara went on to lose to Xanneria, while only conceding the one goal. However, at that game, a new chant was sung by the home fans, and it went like:

Ohhhhh, Abra-Vdara!
Ohhhhh, Abra-Vdaaaaara!

This would repeat many times, and AbraVdara entered the national lexicon as a result.

[Recuecn]

L'ÉNRF had procured hotel rooms in Reçueçn City for all its players living elsewhere—the team still had a number of FC Reçueçn players who lived close enough, but those playing abroad or in other parts of the country needed somewhere to stay from where they could make it to practice sessions on time. One of those players was Franky Adams, who normally lived in Genève. He was sharing a room with Emanuele Cutrona, which was tradition at this point; the two had been good friends for a while. All the players staying in rooms provided by the team were sharing with at least one of their teammates. After all, it was a good bonding experience, and the players enjoyed it.

Franky and Emanuele were hanging out in their room when they heard a knock on the door. Emanuele, who had spread himself across his bed and was playing Animal Crossing on his Nintendo Switch, made no move to answer it. Franky had put an A-League game on TV but then lost interest and wandered out to the balcony where he was putting the view of the city on his instagram story when the knock on the door interrupted him. "Come in," he called.

Instead, whoever was in the hall just knocked again. Franky sighed and walked over to the door, sarcastically grumbling at Emanuele as he passed him: "You lazy ass." Emanuele said nothing but glanced over out of curiosity to see who it was as Franky opened the door.

Neither of them expected the person who they saw standing in the doorway.

Bill LaVoyard was perhaps not a celebrity, in the strictest sense of the term, but he was definitely important, particularly if you played soccer in Reçueçn. Every player on the national team knew who he was since, in a manner of speaking, he was their boss. That wasn't quite accurate, of course: LaVoyard had a seat on the FNRF executive board, but he wasn't in charge of it all by himself. However, he was probably the most recognizable figure on the board for a lot of people, and the board ran the FNRF, which was the federation that governed all Reçuecian Football. LaVoyard had a spot on the executive board as the representative for Reçueçn FC, one of the federation's founding clubs.

Franky was agog. "Uh, bonjour, monsieur," he stammered. "Come in." Emanuele was just as shocked. He didn't have the etiquette to put his phone away or stand up to greet Bill, but he did have the instinct to sit up and put his phone down.

"I'm sorry, I know you weren't expecting me," said LaVoyard. "I hope it's a good time, Tremblay told me you wouldn't be doing anything." Noticing Emanuele, he added, "I was hoping it might be possible to talk to you in private."

"I can go," said Emanuele.

"No, it's fine," said Franky. "Emanuele and I are close. Unless you insist, I don't mind him being here."

"Oh it's certainly fine with me," said LaVoyard.

"Well, uh, great. Do you want to sit down?" asked Franky.

"Thank you," said LaVoyard.

Franky pulled over an uncomfortable wooden-armed hotel chair for him. "Do you want anything to drink?" he asked. "We don't have anything very fancy, but maybe a little apéro..."

"I'm sorry, I need to go in a minute, so I'll have to decline. I appreciate it though."

"No problem," said Franky, taking a seat on his bed. "So, Mr. LaVoyard, why are you here? You gave us both a bit of a shock."

"I'm sorry about that. I was just around since I stopped by to speak to your coaches, and I figured if I was nearby I might try dropping in, even though I hadn't warned you. You know I live just outside of town here."

"Right," said Franky.

"Unfortunately I'm not just here to visit. The board sent me to speak with you, since they'd heard about some of your activities and were getting worried."

Emanuele gave Franky a cutting look, as Franky began to get more nervous than he already was. Both of them instantly knew what this was about. "The board sent you?" Franky asked in surprise.

LaVoyard could tell what Franky really meant to ask. "You're not in trouble," he said, in a tone that sounded reassuring enough. "But the federation is getting a bit concerned about this anti-Cocao-bo campaign of yours."

Emanuele raised his eyebrows. He had seen this coming. Relié had warned Franky against this campaign—had forbid it even—and yet Franky had continued to "raise awareness." Emanuele hadn't said anything then, and he was glad that LaVoyard was here so he wouldn't have to say anything now.

"I'm glad someone is finally getting concerned!" said Franky. "It's a travesty, is what it is. 'The Vilita Dynasty', they call it, but it's all built with PEDs."

"Hmm." LaVoyard frowned. "I don't think I've been clear. The federation isn't worried about Cocoa-bo itself: this is more about your response to the whole situation. If it can be called a situation."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, your coach has told you to drop this campaign, is that correct?"

"Relié has." Relié was assistant coach, and that was just the sort of detail Franky would be petty about when he was caught in an argument he knew he was losing.

"I recognize that Relié's disciplinary options are limited, but he's made it clear that he's very disappointed that you haven't dropped this whole matter. Just today I'm told you made another post with a "ban Coca-bo" hashtag."

"Yeah... yeah, I did, I made post. And Relié complained to the FNRF executive board about it?" Franky seemed incredulous; surely this was an overreaction. Emanuele raised his eyebrows too, although his face showed that his prevailing emotion at the moment was concern for Franky in this situation.

"No," said LaVoyard, "although he would have been well within his rights to do so. It's very serious for a player to directly disregard his coach as you have done. But in this case the executive board itself sent me over after our meeting earlier today. Even the executive board members themselves have heard about what you're doing and are concerned."

Normally, Franky was a fan of most of the board: his own club representative for one, or Jeanne Chartray, representative for le ministère du sport, who he'd met at a Christmas party one time. But as it was becoming clear which side of the fence Bill LaVoyard was on, Franky began to get upset.

"Me accepting a call-up for the national team doesn't give Bonheur Relié control over my every waking moment. I have a life outside the stadium, you know, and it's my life. This campaign isn't about football for me anymore, it's about justice, it's about being fair. I don't know how my one little instagram post managed to wake up the executive board of the FNRF, but you're going after the wrong person. Cocoa-bo is the problem here."

"We haven't seen any evidence that there are in fact any issues associated with the beverage. Until—" LaVoyard corrected himself. "Unless we do, it doesn't make sense to launch a campaign against them, and we can't let you continue in this either."

"No evidence!" Franky was genuinely shocked. "No evidence!? Sir Barsanuphius has loads of evidence. Look at the cheergirls! Look at Vilita! Have you actually listened to any of Sir Barsanuphius's speeches?"

"Well no, I can't say I have—"

"Of course not! How would you be able to say there's no evidence? It's all over the place! Look at that Darmen game... was it Darmen? Look at that game, how do you explain The Holy Empire losing? I'm not the only one who thinks so, ask anyone! Ask my teammates..."

Emanuele winced as Franky turned to him. "Ask Emanuele, he'll tell you," Franky insisted, reaching across and grabbing Emanuele's shoulder.

"Do you believe this too?" LaVoyard asked Emanuele, the disappointment visible on his face.

Emanuele writhed in discomfort as the two trapped him in the middle of their argument. Say no, and Franky would be devastated, betrayed. Say yes, and Emanuele would lose any respect LaVoyard had ever had for him, and then he'd tell the whole FNRF board... Emanuele cared more about his friendship, but it would've been easier to make that choice if he'd actually been on Franky's side. In fact, Emanuele thought that Franky had been getting more and more ridiculous and had been trying to make hints to that effect for a while. But a hint was one thing. Now, here he was, being forced to pick a side, and there was no right answer... well, there was a right answer. There was no good answer.

Emanuele looked down, still shifting uncomfortably in his spot on his bed. He spun his phone around in his hand nervously, and he could feel the sweat prickling through his pores. Franky and LaVoyard both stared at him intensely. Emanuele had the feeling that Franky already felt himself betrayed by the drawn out silence. Meanwhile LaVoyard probably thought he was just ashamed to admit he believed the conspiracy theories.

"I, uh..." Emanuele's voice cracked. He swallowed. "I haven't really done my research..."

There was a pause. Emanuele felt as though he wanted to faint. He kept his eyes on his feet, waiting for someone to say something.

LaVoyard spoke first. "FNRF staffers assure the board that there's no concrete evidence supporting Sir Barsanuphius's claims. You can take a look on Google, but all you'll see are the same stories being repeated—"

"There's no evidence, because everybody's trying to cover it up!" Franky cut him off. "Cocoa-bo's market is too lucrative for them to give up just like this, and the same goes for Vilita. Do you know what winning a World Cup is worth? Enough that they can apparently bribe other nations and other sources to defend them." Franky's face clouded. "Which we have no way of knowing isn't happening with our very own federation, after this discussion."

LaVoyard sighed. "Franky, don't be ridiculous. The federation is trying to stop you only to protect both itself and you from potential lawsuits, not to mention public scorn. There's nothing nefarious going on here."

"I can't believe it," said Franky. "My own team, my own friends, my own country. All against me, all against the truth."

LaVoyard sighed again. "Franky, we're not against you. We just think you've been misled. We're trying to help. I mentioned it to Tremblay, and he said he's concerned; the only reason he hasn't said anything is because he's trying to preserve team unity."

"Tremblay!?" Franky wasn't sure whether to be happy Tremblay hadn't fully turned against him too, or disappointed that Tremblay was still having the wool pulled over his eyes by the Cocoa-boers. Or whether maybe LaVoyard was just making this up.

"Yes, Tremblay. Relié thinks the team's already been torn apart—and it seems like the seams are starting to show. Like I said, the team can't do much in terms of forcing you to comply, and by law, the federation can't really either—"

"It's my right to free speech," said Franky.

"It's your right, but you're abusing it," said LaVoyard. "I know we disagree, but for the sake of the nation, I'm begging you just to let it go. You don't have to agree with me. But our nation needs this team as something we can all support, all get behind, and we can't do that when it's torn apart by argument. You don't have to change your opinion. Just please, support the team, support Reçueçn."

"It's about the integrity of the game," said Franky. "I can't close my eyes to that."

There was nowhere to go from that. LaVoyard saw himself out. Franky turned to Emanuele. "I can't believe it," he said, a catch in his voice. "I thought you supported me."

"Franky." Emanuele looked like he was about to start sobbing. "You make it so hard."

[Kelssek]

MD16 scores for groups 1-7

[Twicetagram and JYPe]

The Chosen One: Episode II, Part I
Continued from previous episode; before Macabees match

---

Lesley: Surname Chase, volunteered to be a test subject in a mysterious experiment she herself doesn't know about yet. Looks and seems cold, buy when you unlock her real heart, a gush of sympathy and kindness rushes out.
Ciel: An attacking midfielder in the Twicetagrian football team, he is usually the person who helps out with goals. Despite having good chemistry with Lesley in terms of playing technique, they two are actually rivals in real life. It stretches over 300 years of ancestry, when Ciel's ancestor assassinated Lesley's ancestor, who was a former chancellor of Strayquestria.
Ciel is that guy who likes to capture everyone's hearts. Usually flirty, he exudes a diva aura, and he is usually very condescending towards Lesley.
Harley: You should know by now.

Theme Song (Warning: not for k-pop haters)
Episode 2 Soundtrack: Scared To Be Lonely

---

My heart dropped when I saw my next love interest. I can't even call him a love interest. He was the one who killed my own blood. It was Ciel. His ancestor killed mine, and we've been in a family feud ever since. No one else knew that, but that was because we were good at hiding secrets. The rest of the dream went on exactly with what had actually happened, so I would just explain it next.
(OOC: I'm just lazy and this was done in advance cuz I can't RP on Sundays)
After being discharged, I spent the rest of the day preparing and packing my bag with Harley. Harley seemed to have gotten a new shirt, so I wondered who did that. After that, we set off to training. Training was pretty much the same, other than the fact that it was a bit harder since our next opponent was The Macabees. Training must have been long, because it was night time by the time we were packing up our equipment. While I was packing the training cones, I was slapped on the head by Ciel.
"Wassup, Lesley. Just hoping that I get Man of the Match tomorrow," with a smirk, he left.
I was about to shout 'go away' to him, but that would just be adding fuel to the fire, wouldn't it? Besides, when has he ever gotten MotM? After that, we left for our hotel, which looked better than ever. Since Harley was the youngest, we shared a room so I could protect him from that someone.
While we were playing our mobile game, someone knocked on the door. Immediately, Harley took his wallet and headed straight for the door.
"Wait, where's you going!" I asked. Just then, Ciel opened the door, before escorting Harley outside.
"I invited him to the arcade. You're not invited," Ciel stuck out his tongue and left.
If only I could go back in time and smack his ancestor's face before he killed mine.

The next day it was free time, and I spent the day away from Ciel as far as I could. I let Harley be independent for once, and I was very sure he went to the computer café or something.
I went to the nature park, being the nerd nature lover I am. Today was bird migration season, so I could see quite a number of foreign species.
I came back slightly after sunset. Harley hadn't come back yet, so I guessed he was eating out at Arnold & Wendy's.
After that, my eyes were drooping, and the big match was in 3 days, so I took a short nap.

"Les! Les!" Harley squealed excitedly.
"What do you want? Another $10 dollars for another jumbo ice float set?" I asked, since that was what he asked for most of the time.
"Naw, not that junk. Ciel invited me to Pepper's. I heard their Spicy Gold Nougats are the hottest things these days. Literally. Can I go? Pleeeeease? Mom says you have to follow me wherever I go," You know he's actually that desperate when he starts to act like an idiotic 5-year old. I would have allowed him any time, but with Ciel? That'd be the same as treason.
"Not today. Remember the time you went there once and you had a huge dump the next day? Don't," If I thought that would stop him, then I didn't know him at all.
The scene then magically changed to Pepper's. I was with Harley and Ciel, and I was very disappointed. Ciel was whispering something to Harley while suspiciously looking at me. Harley nodded his head, before laughing the stupidest laughter I've heard.
"Bruh just shut up already," I said.
"No swear words!" Ciel taunted.
God when would this end...

--end of Episode 2, part 1

Bye day

[Independent Athletes from Quebec]

A September Lunch-Hour, 2043
Quebec City

Dr. Heo Dong-Soo, the Royal Historian, and Sir. Alexandre Kim, sat in an outdoor table on a Quartier-Latin cafe to talk of a different concern. With the Princess's graduation, they had quietly picked up the personal trust fund listed under Jacques IX's name, but with long term outlook in mind.

Of course, the initial list of institutions was already established, with the goal for it to be introduced come this fall: ten endowed professorships, all combined for Q£15 million, were going to be spent on attracting World-class humanities and social sciences scholars to various institutions across Quebec. Both sides, however, knew that given the current timing with the King's illness and whatnot, there would be staggered timing of the professorships and how they would be selected, so they had to get the help of the Royal Humanities and Social Sciences Research Council to enable six endowed positions offered to be sponsored by industry and individuals. The Royal Health and Physical Sciences Council also got off lucky with 18 positions - 6 royal endowed professorships and 12 individual/industrial ones.

Furthermore, there would be additional concern on where and how the institutions would be allocated the professorships: both men were very much the symbolic figures of the Quebecois Institutions. They both were children of the high-class royalty, partly had foreign royal blood in them, went to a top class prep school (Sir Alex went to Whimoon College just 2 kilometres away from the Royal Palace, while Dr. Heo went to none other than His Majesty's School in Downtown Montreal), and of course after their time at a posh school (they met when Dr. Heo fenced and Sir. Alex rugby for Queen's College at Cornwall), found their way to academia or military, and then the Royal House on a series of promotions and careful career changes.

While they knew that it wasn't really their fault that their abilities have gotten them into their respective positions, which they both loved and cherished to serve for the people they loved, they also knew that some, more abroad than at home, would find it quite anachronistic. And to make it more complicated, they weren't helping themselves with the complications by having a monarch invest on his own fund to create a trust fund that actually luckily worked out through series of minor successful investments. So while they were smiling at the success of what they had done, they were also highly aware as they discussed the matter.

'You sure starting this in a time of grace concern was a great idea, Dong-Soo?' Sir. Alex sighed, as he looked at the state of affairs his friend has brought them into. 'While I have known you for just over three decades, it still amazes me how you have used the permission of His Majesty and whatnot, without contacting me on this!'

'It is not just me, Alex,' Dr. Heo responded, in a futile attempt to calm his friend. He knew all too well that this was going to happen when he, as the Official Historian of the Royal House, decided to go ahead alone in presenting the proposal that they and the RHSSRC had planned for months. 'The councils also tried to present this on separate opportunities, but His Majesty said no to it. And we can't present this to the Princess either, because we cannot bring her name into a matter that concerns mortals.'

'Yes. I get that we ought not bring her into the mortal matters, and you did fine on that,' Sir. Alex then scoffed. 'Still, what will public think of this? Haven't you thought about how in the world they'll proceed with that? Have you stayed for too long into academia to forget that the public functions differently than most of your students at Queen's or Kingston the past two decades???'

'Calm down. It's just a small matter of business where you managed to invest correctly on correct timing and correct stock exchange, and made big money off of it. No matter how we proceed with the procedure, the results will be straight and forward for the good of the public.'

'Well, I, as a Private Secretary to the Sovereign of the Royal Kingdom of Quebec Quebec and the Shinjoseon, would like to remind you with the problem that exists on this line of thought you seem to have, and it's that no matter what with intentoins, we are going to be accused of preferential treatment towards an imaginary clientele. To some, whether home or abroad, they are going to accuse us of being classist or being driven with a certain agenda, and that won't look so pleasant when the current cabinet nearly caused a diplomatic crisis when they shouldn't have.'

'Yes, that is true, but it is not my responsibility to talk of the mortals and how they view this act of gratitude. It is more your duty to ensure that the current rendition of Royal Professorships, which already number in early hundreds, contribute meaningfully to what we already have after all.'

'And with that, we should take a look at this announcement file,' Dr. Heo smiled, as he brought a file. The file, a clearly printed file from a website, showed a press release. 'because you see, dear friend, I think the Council have read over our worried minds.'

---

ROYAL HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES RESEARCH COUNCIL

Q£3 million gift for new Mavuto Family Professorships

PUBLISHED : SEPTEMBER 16, 2043

QUEBEC CITY, CAPITALE-NATIONALE (Mavuto Foundation, BNJ) - The Mavuto Family Professorships of Banijan and Sudafricain History will allow both University of Prince Raoul Islands and Farrer University to retain each a world-class scholar who will promote a stronger, deeper understanding and appreciation of Banija, Tchuanaland, Deadvlei and Mwasi-Afrique, and their rich, complex and conflicting history and culture. The scholars, who will be based in their respective institution's history department, will be closely working together to generate significant collaborations within and beyond the university community, into key national and commonwealth cultural institutions to further enrich the discipline of Banijan and Sudafricain history in Quebec and the Quebecois Commonwealth.

Farrer University's Dean of Arts and Sciences, Georges Nantel-Potgieter, in his response to the Foundation, is grateful to the Mavuto Foundation and believes that the professorships, that will be cross-appointed to other department(s) of their respective research affiliation, will provide both institutions a critical opportunity to raise their profile in the study of Banijan-Sudafricain history and the Commonwealth Studies. 'The Mavuto Family's decision to support the History Department at Farrer will have a major, critical impact on our students and the university community as a major international institution,' he writes. 'Academically, it will enable the Farrer faculty to support more scholars in Banijan-Sudafricain Studies and ensure the continuation of Farrer's forefront position in the field over past two centuries. In addition, the opportunity to create a Mavuto Family Professorship will provide promising opportunity for our best and brightest students to receive much more balanced, enriching experience with newer research fields and methodological focus for study and research.'

For both departments, the creation of this preexisting position will give UPRI and Farrer a major boost, as Farrer and UPRI only have 2 and 1 permanently faculty member in the Banijan-Sudafricain field in the department, in addition to several more scholars in political sciences and national languages departments.

The new appointee, starting from either assistant or associate professor rank, is expected to offer coursework focusing on three pillars: 1) introduction to the Commonwealth Studies, 2) the Banijan-Sudafricain history, and 3) the contemporary culture, film and media, society (anthropology or sociology), or comparative literature of the region. With both departments already having students under graduate supervision, the Banijan-Sudafricain field is expected to see further strengthening in both undergraduate and graduate levels. 'This is an excellent opportunity for what lies ahead with our history department,' says Professor Yoon Seung-Gyoon, Interim Chair of the Department of History at University of Prince Raoul Islands. 'In this day and age where many universities abroad have seen critical downsizing of their programs, continued commitment to strengthening the educational institutions by the Commonwealth continues to be admirable on all accounts.'

Established in 2027 by Andrew Mavuto, former RTC executive and current PetroBan president, the Mavuto Family Foundation aims to promote and enhance not only the Banija and the Quebecois Sudafrique presence in the world, but also to encourage continued cultural and academic exchange between the region and the greater Quebecois Commonwealth. Over the past fifteen years, it has supported the exchange program between 41 institutions in 13 Commonwealth countries, and has been involved at funding strong humanities and social sciences research and exchange at Farrer, Prince Raoul Islands and Kingston universities in its entire existence.

Matthew Ighalo, President of the Mavuto Foundation, is confident that this partnership with Farrer and UPRI, will serve as a fitting extension to the institutions' effort in ameliorating understanding of Banija and the Sudafrique among Quebecois and the Commonwealth citizens. 'I would like to thank both Farrer and Prince Raoul Island universities, for their commitment to their improvement of the Commonwealth Studies,' he says. 'The Mavuto Family has owed both institutions absolute gratitude for remarkable quality of education during Mister Robert BA'24, MA'26 (UPRI) and Miss Katherine BA'25, JD'28 (Farrer), and are excited to establish permanent positions at both universities to improve further coursework and research capability about Banijan-Sudafricain history, culture and society, to some of the finest students in Quebec and the Commonwealth. I also expect that, even in this challenging times with uncertain sentiments, this should provide strengthening bonding of all Quebecois Commonwealth nations and their students at Farrer through the Mavuto Foundation's efforts with both institutions.'

For more information on the Farrer History Department, please visit http://farrer.que/history, and for UPRI History Department, see http://upri.que/artsci/history

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'Well I guess that's not a bad start. They went ahead with this a bit too early, but early start's better than a start that's too late.'

'Indeed. Of course, we'll have to see how this goes through though. I know both councils want some foreign scholars outside of the Commonwealth to come through, so it'll be a heckuva matter they'll have to organise with many...'

[Mriin]

Cutoff for groups 8-15!

[Xanneria]

A POEM BY STEVE STEVENSON

BORN TO QUALIFY
ESPORTIVA IS A FUCK
Score Em All 1989
I am World Cup Qualifier
410,757,864,530 DEAD HUELavian World Cup Dreams

[Taeshan]

Taeshan 0-0 Maccian
Stairway to Heaven, Mt Ceabring, Wolf Island, Taeshan

Keeping Up Appearances

I don’t really think I’m happy right now. I don’t know why. You know some days you wake up and you’re just, there. All the plans in the world to see people, to do things, to go places don’t really matter if you don’t feel like going. Since I joined the national team, I felt like I finally had everything I ever wanted. The long journey in my youth to be the best young goalkeeper in Taeshan. My first call-up. Starting in my first Copa Rushmori. Qualifying for the World Cup. Playing in a World Cup, playing in a knockout game.

And yet here I am. I don’t know where the happiness went. A lot of people struggle in the world, and it can be hard to notice it. I think…I think it can be difficult to see depression as a problem for people where everything is going well. Like a billionaire can’t be happy because they are rich? I have most of my life ahead of me, I’ve reached 50 national team caps before my 19th birthday. That’s incredible stuff. I’ve done a lot of things in life anyone would be proud of.

But that is not enough for me to be happy. I wake up, and it can be a chore to do anything some days. I only go places because I know, one day I’ll feel better. One day I’ll regret not keeping up appearances. So, I keep up appearances. I go and hang out with my friends, have a chat, pretend that inside I’m not feeling the pressing pain of something. But I don’t know what.

Losing is hard. I think about every goal I could have saved, every clearance I could have made. I don’t want to lose. But winning isn’t always a happy moment. Sometimes I win, and it’s hollow. Sometimes I get nothing out of the greatest moments in life. It’s hard sometimes. Even for the luckiest people alive. Maybe this won’t be how I feel every day, but I feel this wait right now. I feel like the world is caving in and I have nowhere to go. The pressure is mounting.

Florian Wagner