World Cup 86: Roleplay Thread

[Kandorith]

Shinonome Kyoai - International
News From The Empire

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Lotus Warriors Show Their Worth

In absolute shocking style the Kandorese team barged into the qualifying matches. Where in the first matches the Lotus Warriors showed their dominance, they are now working in their defensive prowess. The team is holding the third place right now after drawing against Emastalia, which according to Hayabusa was something they should have avoided. So far the team has been performing on their very best, but the toughest games are still to come. Is the game against Emastalia a omen of bad luck? This qualifying campaign has been the most successful start in decades for the team, which for the fans brings some cold sweat. The last time Kandorith was off to a good start in the qualifiers the team had their worst run in the history of the world cup, only winning three games and losing all the other games; which left them at the bottom of the qualifying table and going down as a team with one of the most goals against in history of football.

This time however, things are different. The Lotus Warriors are led by Hayabusa, who is not giving up anything when it comes to the national team. Leading a domestic team to victory five times is something already, but for the Kandorese; winning a Cup of Harmony is even more impressive. This is the third time in command for the manager and the team seems more determined this year to try and reach that World Cup final stage, the only question remains though: do the Kandorese players have what it takes to keep standing tall? The Kandorese football season has been a turbulent one; with drama and postponed matches due to natural disasters, now the national team has to show what they are made of and if they can hold to their ranking. The team is ranked 39th in the world and has to show exactly why they have achieved this ranking. Currently in the group they are among the strongest ranked teams, only below Valanora, yet they have slipped up their game against 141st ranked Emastalia.

"A disgrace honestly." Hayabusa commented. "We should have closed down the game way earlier and should have defeated them. A draw is not a defeat, yet in my eyes this game feels like a defeat. We were low on concentration and did not react quick enough to easily defendable counter attacks. I think we should have done better and we should do better in the upcoming matches because if we do not, it will be a repeat of all the drama this team has. A change of strategy might be in order, but currently I still believe in our main strategy. WE will see in the upcoming matches how it will work out and hopefully the players will have their heads back in the game again.

"I really believe the team wants to show their best. But, they should not forget we are playing for national pride and international recognition as a football nation. Of course; we can have an off day but if this happens again it costs us our chances for qualifying. I do not want to be in the same situation as the previous World Cup and miss out because of one last match. We've been preparing for the qualifiers every single day and this should not happen. Yet, it did. Although, I am very confident the next games will be better than this and we will be back in a full focused mode for the upcoming games. We will not let another victory slip through our hands."

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   Group 9                              Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Qasden                                 4    3   1   0    11    3   +8    10
 2 Valanora                               4    3   1   0    12    6   +6    10
 3 Kandorith                              4    3   1   0    14    7   +7    10
 4 Ancherion                              4    3   0   1     9    6   +3     9
 5 Lochario                               4    2   0   2     8    6   +2     6
 6 Emastalia                              4    1   1   2     5    7   −2     4
   Schottia                               4    1   1   2     7    9   −2     4
 8 Solharcht Kirale                       4    1   0   3     3   14  −11     3
 9 Kencana                                4    0   1   3     0    6   −6     1
10 Glazgo                                 4    0   0   4     6   11   −5     0

[Chromatika]

Part 1: The Barbed Inn, Chromia
Part 2: The Emerald, Ming

World Cup 86 Qualifying Matchday 3:

Score: Blouman Empire 1-3 Chromatika
Goals: Kuzami '29, Andisori, B. '57, Humphreys '88
Starting XI: Williams; Watt - Rondeau - Odling - Nocturne; Humphreys - Dias - Croix-Pierre; Kuzami; Andisori, B. (C) - Yuan.
Substitutes: De Saint Pierre -> Watt ('59), Kim, M.S. -> Dias ('77), Sierra -> Yuan ('84)

World Cup 86 Qualifying Matchday 4:

Score: Chromatika 3-2 Free Republic of Hong Kong @ Anomaly Tower, Chromia
Goals: Dias '6, Andisori, B. '48, Yuan '77
Starting XI: Williams; Watt - Rondeau - Odling - Nocturne; Humphreys - Dias - Croix-Pierre; Kuzami; Andisori, B. (C) - Yuan.
Substitutes: Baugh -> Odling ('63), Bird -> Andisori, B. ('73), Han -> Croix-Pierre ('80)

---

Now with Video!

The first few iterations of Anomalies in Chromatika had received major accolades with the Chromatik populace; Kimi Jin was starting to become a star. She loved her job, and the corner; her bosses were rather fond of how she was doing, too, with Jordan Lawless especially giddy that someone else was taking the spotlight for once. For the match at the Blouman Empire, she had shown the audience how she preferred to watch the game - at her favorite dive spot, a little restaurant/bar known as The Red Wing in Deprí Pelar. It had been a good match for the Anomalies, too - with the next Starting XI scoring three goals and dominating possession for most of the match.

Now, she was returning to Chromia for the Anomalies' home match against Free Republic of Hong Kong, yet another nation who had recently completed their Baptism of Fire. This time, she had actually received an email from the President of one of the most exclusive yacht clubs of Chromatika, The Pearl Wave. Josiah Waterman had contacted her rather out of the blue, and asked her to be his guest on the Killjoy, a huge yacht a hundred feet in length. Now, it was only the rich that had yachts in Chromia, as it wasn't a port city - but there was the Cortez River nearby that was wide and deep enough for the yachts like the Killjoy.

That was how Kimi Jin found herself on the Killjoy thirty minutes from kickoff, joining a party of... thirty or forty people. Josiah Waterman was in a neat black sports coat, his white shoulder-length hair flowing in the slight breeze.

"Welcome!" he stated in a slightly eastern European accent, reaching out his hand, "We usually meet in either Myana or Urrhed, but we wanted to host you for this match, so here we are on the Cortez River. I'm Josiah, these are my people, and we watch all Anomalies games on this yacht. Make yourself at home - all the rooms and services are available to you, and of course, you can ask any of my guests any questions you'd like."

Kimi took the hand, and shook it. "Thank you for your generosity, Mr. Waterman. Anybody that I should talk to specifically? I'm looking for people who are either very passionate about the Anomalies, have controversial opinions regarding Chromatik football, or are just an interesting, unique people."

Waterman chuckled and replied, "Anyone here, really. For example, I am a diehard Teal fan - and am very happy that they may be returning to the Red League next season. Alisha Forsett - you won't be able to miss her - is probably the most passionate Anomalies fan, while The Trio - you won't be able to miss them either on the rooftop lounge - have some very interesting takes on anything. If it would help, actually, I can sit you down in one of the lounges and just let people know that you're here if anybody wants to come talk to you."

"Sure," answered Kimi, "That would sure save the time that it'd take to traverse through all the rooms on this yacht."

So, Kimi Jin found herself in one of the more secluded lounges, setting up. Waterman had assured her that he'd send up Alisha Forsett and The Trio for sure, and that he'd opened the invitation for anyone to come and speak to her if they wanted to.

It wasn't long until she had her first guest - the three brothers, all in green suits, called "The Trio". They identified themselves as Andrei, Benjamin, and Joah Kurshev. They owned a shipping company in Myana, and they were huge Islanders fans. The hill that they chose to die on? Arguing that the Chromatik League should never have gone to sixteen teams.

"Twelve was the correct number," started Andrei, "With the double round-robin, the split, and then the other double round-robin. It allowed there to be suspense in the last ten matches, it allowed the smaller teams that struggled in the first twenty-two games to have a chance to avoid being relegated, and it was just more exciting. Look at the league now - thirty games, and not nearly as exciting. Should've stuck to twelve teams and more tiers."

The crowd around them cheered as Kai Dias scored off of a free kick in the sixth minute, a simply sublime shot. Moments later, Benjamin added, "Who wouldn't want to see Myana vs. Tihon four times in a year? What about the Chromia Derby, or even between Anomalies, Chromatik, and Crusaders? It's more drama and better quality of matches."

Joah concluded, "We still think it isn't too late for the to change in the future. Better late than never. We've written quite a few letters to the CFF, and will be looking for other avenues to have our voices heard.

Kimi was able to have a few more conversations with The Trio, and then they left to allow others to come in.

Lina Watt succeeded in tackling a FRHK attack, and the referee blew his whistle, pointing at the spot. The crowd on the yacht went berserk.

Coming in next, Kim saw a brunette woman in a sparking red dress with a striking figure.

"Alicia Forsett, entrepreneur, Capitalizt aficionado, and Anomalies diehard. Nice to meet you."

She carried herself with the air of someone who knew what she was doing and what she wanted. She knew what kind of a response she had on people, and wasn't afraid to use it - Alicia Forsett was a dangerous woman.

As the penalty was put past Nova Williams, drawing the underdogs even with Chromatika, she clicked her tongue in exasperation before saying, "Yet another instance where poor refereeing messes with great play. It's all rather frustrating, I tell you."

"Mr. Waterman says you're the biggest fan of the NT here, Ms. Forsett. Why do you think he says that's the case?"

"Well... I've been to every match ever hosted in the Capitalizt Dome, Chromatika home games and the Chromatik Capitalizt home games, too," responded Alicia, "I know that's not normal, but I've worked hard in fashion to get to where I am, and it's the one area that I splurge. I've been there for all the great moments... and I hope to be for many years to come."

"Every single one? That is impressive," admitted Kimi. Alicia smiled back, and Kimi couldn't help but blush a little bit.

"Why, thank you," responded Alisha, "And there we go!"

Wang Yuan had just had a close-range shot saved miraculously by the FRHK keeper; they both turned to the game for a while after that.

To everyone's surprise, it would be the FRHK that took the lead at halftime after a lucky header.

"I don't think we'll lose, but if we do, it's because the game is being played in that god-awful stadium," said Alisha, pointing at the screen at the Anomaly Tower. Kimi took the comment in jest.

With a wink, Alisha Fossett left the room during halftime.

As she was spending time talking to her editor about which bits they'd use for the corner, the second half started, and Josiah Waterman himself entered the room.

"How is it going, Ms. Jin?" he inquired, smiling.

"The Trio definitely have their own opinion, all right, and Alicia Forsett is a delight," answered Kimi, "Thank you so much for this opportunity./'

Josiah Waterman remained with her for the rest of the game, and the Anomalies turned it around - escaping with the other three points. Four other people came in and introduced themselves:

Karla Wilson, a psychologist from Felswyr who is just enjoyed being on the water - a diehard Frostie too, and rather enjoying one Bugarin;
Annanais Carleigh, a businessman from Jatho who regaled Kimi with his tales of how he met Sandra Sybill on the train once "super nice, but rather distant"
Jericho Potterman, a biophysicist from Deprí Lanar, who tried to explain to Kimi why the Red Hawks are better than the Yellow Jackets despite the Yellow Jackets being in the Red League
Prince Nottingham, a stage performer from Chromia who just cracked some jokes with four other people. He was rather good, Kimi had to admit.

It had been one of the strangest instances of work that Kimi had ever had, but a memorable one. She thanked Mr. Waterman, and he bowed.

"Where are you headed next?" he asked.

"Urrheddiao," answered Kimi.

"Ah. Urrheddiao. Check out Jim's. Tell them I sent you."

Kimi nodded, and made her way off the Killjoy, the memory of Alisha Forsett's smile still fresh in her mind.

---

Team Selection
MD5: @ HAIKU
MD6: vs. vs. Pripet Socialist Republic @ United Center, Urrheddiao (Cap. 120,000; 28,000 Seats)
Starting XI: Alexander (C); Watt - Friedman - Baugh - Pomeroy; Thorben - Kim, M.S. - Kuznetsov; Sterling; Non - Bird.
Substitutes: Ria, Xiao, de Aea, Ken, Ilya, Victoriane, Armageddon, Conrad, Mora, Andisori, K., Vidal, Reynolds.

[Vdara]

Remaining Unbeaten

Following a thrilling yet disappointing 4-4 draw with Drunk People at the Local Tavern, Vdara’s second lineup were being given a chance to redeem themselves against Vangaziland, one of the two unranked sides in the group. While the Matchday 3 result had dinged a few egos, the fans - and indeed the players - were sure that they’d get back to winning ways in this next game.

In the dressing room, Moustakakos was pacing back and forth. Not for any particular reason, mind you.

Moustakakos: ”Well, we’re back again. I know the draw last time around was disappointing, but we just have to put that behind us, yeah? We’re still three games unbeaten, and we could go four tonight if we beat Vangaziland. We just need to stay focused and keep our heads down out there, y’know? Losing focus could be detrimental to our games - it definitely was in the last one, I’m sorry to say. Anyhow, the past is in the past, and we have a match to play. Let’s not keep our fans waiting much longer, let’s get out there!”

It’s time for the Live Coverage, and would you believe it, it’s on Vai Sports 1!

Pre-Lineups Tune

”Well, here we go again! It’s Matchday 4 of the World Cup Qualifiers, and we’re back in Vdara following a disappointing 4-4 draw in the last match. However, you can’t let hurdles trip you up so easily, and you shouldn’t give up at the first obstacle you face. We’re at the VdarArena yet again, and it’s going to be an exciting battle between the only teams in this group whose names start with V - Vdara and Vangaziland! Now, more about Vdara. It’s a place where three languages are classed as official...”



”... and it’s a place where the national football team has never been involved in a match with more than eleven goals - and that match was a 6-5 victory over Kandorith in the Cup of Harmony.”



”However, the amount of goals scored doesn’t really matter unless the result you get is decent, and I’m sure that these young lads on the pitch today will be able to get a decent result against their opponents. Now, to stop me from rambling on about random shit, let’s cut to the lineups!”

(Skip to 1:45 of the pre-lineups tune for the ACTUAL lineups tune - it’s exhilarating, wouldn’t you agree?)

”Zaharias Frangoglou replaces the manager in goals today, with Christakos, Tolakis and Zerveas taking up the three spots in front of him. In midfield, we have the dynamic and solid duo of Akakios Demotis and Lambros Tantalopoulos, who have both been bossing the midfield in recent matches. Looking towards the front five, we’ve got Alkiviadis Manolakis starting on the left wing, with Themistoklis Muleas in left forward. At the right wing, we have Manousos Scafididis, with Mathaios Makrotsis slotting into the right forward position. Last but not least, Andrianos Petras completes the lineup in the striker position, where he’s shined in the past couple games.”



”I’d love to tell you about the lineup of Vangaziland, but we don’t seem to have any information about them. Must be an issue on their end, usually they’d have sent us the rosters by now. Huh. Anyhow, ignoring that little issue - the players are coming onto the pitch, the fans are excited, and I’ve got a beer in my hand. What could be better than this? Watching the game live, of course! The match is about to start, so let’s switch to the commentary box and allow them to do the talking.”

The match report is as follows:

1: Well, here we bloody go! The whistle has been blown, and I’m sure we’re going to have a fantastic game between these two sides.
8: One of the Vangazi attackers is nearly through on goal, he’s passed all the defenders bar one, but Zerveas comes from behind and performs a crunching tackle on the attacker just outside the penalty box! The referee’s got his hand in his back pocket already, that’s a definite red card for Anargyros Zerveas, and it’s going to be an early bath for him! Vdara down to ten men after 8 minutes!
21: It’s a corner for Vdara, who haven’t seemed to have lost their attacking mentality - even with a man down. Scafididis takes the corner... and it’s a goal! Petras met the ball with a lovely volley, and that’s put Vdara ahead!
27: Demotis has got the ball in midfield, and he’s lobbed it forwards towards Muleas, who hits it on the volley... straight over the bar. He’s managed to hit someone in the crowd with that, too. Ouch.
34: My word! What a goal that was! The Vangazi players don’t seem to have names on the backs of their shirts, but one of them has just scored a fantastic long range goal out of nowhere! It’s 1-1!
38: They’ve only gone and made it 2-1 to Vangaziland! Wow, what a turnaround this has been! Vangaziland have turned this result on it’s head now, but can they keep it that way?
42: Scafididis is looking to quickly fire Vdara back into this game, as he makes his way into the box and fires a shot... straight at the unnamed keeper.
45: The whistle has blown for half time, and what a result we seem to be looking at! The unranked Vangaziland have the lead over the unbeaten Vdara, who seem to have been disadvantaged by the earlier red card.

The dressing room sat in silence for what seemed like hours, but was only 5 minutes, before Moustakakos finally said a word.

”This match is still winnable, but I’m gonna make a few substitutions before we get back on the pitch, just so you know. For starters, David. You’re slotting into Trifonas’ position at centreback. To make sure we don’t concede any more goals, I’m switching to a 4-2-3 formation, with Muleas and Makrotsis coming off for Vlahiades and Athanas in the wing-back positions. Everyone else - keep trying, you’ll break them eventually!”

46: Well, we’re back up and running again following the half time break!
51: Vlahiades has got the ball on the left side, and he’s racing towards the Vangazi defence! He takes a shot from range... which hits off the underside of the crossbar and goes in! What a goal from the substitute! It’s 2-2 already, and could this be a sign of things to come for Vangaziland?
59: Vdara are putting their opponents under all sorts of pressure right now, as Tantalopoulos goes for the long shot... but it’s saved by the keeper.
63: It’s a free kick for Vdara, and it looks like Vlahiades is going to be the one to step up and take it. He takes a few steps back, runs towards the ball, strikes it... and it curves brilliantly over the wall and into the net! Tryfon Vlahiades has completely turned this game around for Vdara, as they now lead by three goals to two!
67: It’s a corner for Vdara, and the currently on-form Vlahiades is going to be the one to take it. He swings the cross into the box with almost perfect accuracy, as Tantalopoulos headers the ball... straight into the net! Vdara double their advantage, and it looks like they might run away with this game with only ten men still on the pitch!
75: Athanas receives the ball from Xeniadis, and he’s going to make a run down the right hand side. He’s made it quite far, as he tries to lob the ball over towards Petras... and it’s headered away by one of the defenders.
80: One of the Vangazi attackers has managed to make it through the midfield, as they try and take a shot from range... which is blocked by David Xeniadis. The performance from the substitutes has been great today, hasn’t it?
85: Xeniadis has the ball at the rear end of the pitch, and he’s hit it hard across the pitch, so far that it’s fallen to the feet of Andrianos Petras, who tries to capitalise in this chance with a shot... which flies past the keeper and makes the scoreline 5-2! Vangaziland have had to watch their halftime lead fall apart at the seams, to the dismay of all of their fans, I’m sure!
90: Well, that’s an end result that Moustakakos and the squad can be proud of! A 5-2 victory at home may not sound too impressive against an unranked team, but when you consider the fact that Vdara were staring defeat in the eyes at halftime, you can’t help but savour the result at the end.

Moustakakos was proud. In fact, he was more than proud. Although it had taken Vdara three substitutions to get back into the swing of things, he had managed to turn the result on its head completely in only 45 minutes. Impressive, no?

”Wow. Just... wow. We hadn’t exactly had the best start to this match, but I feel like we have to give a big round of applause to the substitute, Tryfon Vlahiades. I mean, 2 goals and an assist? After coming on from the bench? I’m happy for you, Tryfon! I’ll just have to hope that you make a good starter in the game after this one, yeah? Acronius is going to be a hard team to topple, but I’m sure that we can do it with someone like you on the pitch, haha! Anyhow, fantastic job to everyone here, I’m going to go lie down for a bit. My adrenalin is pumping like hell!”

With all three of Vdara’s victories so far being won by three goal margins, it’s no surprise that Vdarans are currently in full celebration mode. I mean, they’re only a quarter of the way through qualifying - and they haven’t even played any of the top three seeds - but they’re just living in the moment. There’s fans in the streets, songs being sung, and fireworks being fired off into the air. However, those celebrations may turn to dismay if Vdara doesn’t do well in their next two games. The fans are very optimistic about their game versus Megistos, but less so against the one against Acronius. Ever since the disappointing result on MD3 and Acronius’ victory over the top seed, fans have been concerned that Vdara may get their first loss of the campaign. However, only time shall tell. Time always tells, and time never lies.

[Rangers FC]

The Sleepy Rangers Fan Chronicle

Brought to you by: a very sleep-deprived fan of Rangers Football Club. Because why not, am I right?

Sleepy Guy: ”God, I’m tired. I have school tomorrow, why am I talking about Rangers at fucking 1:30 in the morning? I HAVE TO WAKE UP IN FIVE HOURS! Anyhow, let’s take a look at the positives from one of our last games, the one against Zeta Reka and Huge... Hugetal... Huge Italians. That’ll do.”

Rangers FC 0-0 Zeta Reka and Hugetaldom: a victory, just without the 3 points

”On the plus side, we didn’t lose. We didn’t concede a goal, either. Pretty impressive thus far, considering we’ve went 1-1-2.
However, we didn’t win either. Where’s the fun in celebrating if you didn’t manage to even get the three points? Bah.“

*Sleepy Guy takes a look at Discord for a moment, before going back to talking about Rangers*

”Now, we did play another match, but we lost that one, and I can’t be bothered to bring that result up. I’m just gonna leave tonight’s... newsletter? program? show? Ach, forget it. It’s not like there’s much info to give about this team anyways. I shall see you all after the next matchdays. Cheery bye!”

This RP was brought to you by: An awful sleep schedule.

[Eura]

Life in the Seventh Star

Part One

It always felt freeing to be up in the air. Away from earthly concerns and constraints, the pilot controlled their destiny. He could watch the earth fade away below him and climb beyond the reaches of the clouds with only the operating envelope of the aircraft left to stop him. He could venture anywhere he liked. North, south, east, west, or maybe he didn’t need to go anywhere at all. He could glide back down and land without a care in the world. What did it matter? As long as he had his wings, the world was his.

Until he loses those wings. His nose drops and lungs suddenly feel assaulted; the air has changed. Every inch of him struggles to regain control as the forces of gravity kick in, wrenching his body in its entirety from one extreme to another. He has to descend. As he does so, his vessel shakes and screams, settling only when he cuts its fiery engine. The sky turns purple and blue for a moment as his eyes betray him. Then he’s lower and his vision returns, his breathing returns to normal, and he is able to bring himself level with the horizon.

When he starts his engine, there’s a metallic cough, followed by a much louder crash and bang. What has caused it? It doesn’t matter. The fire is no longer spewing from the engine in the direction it is supposed to. His cradle is rapidly becoming a coffin. The pilot feels the seconds slow as he thinks over his chances; stay and try to save this sinking ship, or bail and risk the elements? He hedges. He’s scared. The fire creeps forward and now he has no choice, bail it is. The button is suddenly so far away, and the cockpit so incredibly hot. His skin sears and his chest heaves as the air is replaced by fire and smoke. It happens slowly. It happens painfully. It happens. Happened.

Mateo woke up.

----------

Like most fourteen year old boys, Mateo Piroz was rarely fresh as a daisy. Never had he been as un-fresh as he was now. Mateo had been startled out of his slumber at five in the morning to find himself drenched in sweat, which layered on his teenage coating of oily skin and accumulated other substances, amounted to somebody in dire need of a shower. He looked over at the twenty four hour digital clock to his side. It was blank. Not again. He swung himself out of bed feet first and walked over to the light switch. He flicked it twice. No dice. Fuck.

Mateo was one of millions of kids who had drawn the cosmic short straw of being born Sameban. That brings with it a few things to get used to. The rolling power cuts, obviously – but also the searing heat, making every disgusting element of your body you feel ashamed of worse. He poked his head out of the door, hoping to see that his mother had gone to work early as she occasionally did. No, she hadn’t. The sound of her snoring was unmistakable. If he showered now she’d be fuming at being woken up early. Filth it was, then.

He walked over to his bedroom window and looked out at the city of Aspel. It had been his home since birth and, no matter what torment it had been through, it always was home in his heart. The sounds of Aspel were as recognisable as always at this hour. Street animals howling and scowling at one another. Traffic arguing through the medium of car horns. A young couple staggering home from a night out. And then, the most unmistakable sound of all these days, a spate of gunfire. Long ago Mateo would have flinched at such a sound. Not anymore. The rifle was as much a part of life in Aspel as the weather.

Aspel had spent a great deal of Mateo’s life at war. That sounds like a big deal but it’s not exactly news. You couldn’t have missed it if you had hearing or sight and access to any news source in the last fifteen years. Eventually you grow familiar with the echoes of conflict, even as they fester years after it was supposed to be over. That’s why his response to an act of violence within earshot of his family home was to sigh, open the window a little further to allow a breeze in, and return to bed. He lay there thinking about the dream, or nightmare, depending on your point of view, and about the man whose eyes he experienced it through. Mateo spent a long time doing so. When he broke free from his state of mind it was bright outside, and time to start the day.

[Plane of Possibility]

"Will it even work?" was the question being asked by everyone when Hope stated her plan to strike back at The Worldbuilder.

"I mean, it needs us to play for some reason, right?" was her reply.

So, they had a plan:

After nine games, they'd refuse to play, and see what The Worldbuilder did then. Could it actually influence them to play?

Even if it didn't work, they would learn so much more about The Worldbuilder by trying.

Given that the team had started 4-0-0, and were doing very well, perhaps that would be some kind of blackmail, too?

So, the plan was agreed upon. Would it work?

[New Lusitania and the Algarves]

STL|Serviços de Transmissão Lusitana
Sport | Football|
World Cup 86 Qualifiers

ON THIN ICE
Matchdays 3 & 4 Review:
New Lusitania 0-2 Mavinet (Estádio do Conquistador, Guimarães - Att: 36 921)
Sharktail
New Lusitania 1-1 Sharktail (Estádio do Mondego - Att 36 220)

Back home, the pressure was on. The away victory at Terre Septentrionale may have been one game that had calmed the public for a while but the Mavinet match in Guimarães was a must win in the opinion of everyone in the nation. The team was composed by the main squad with only the inclusion of Azinheira as a change. The team came about to a goalless draw at Halftime meaning there was still a forty-five minutes to go. The first goal came just after Halftime with the defence completely stunned by the forwards storming down so early in the half. A great goal struck hard and low into the net to take the away side into the lead. Silveira almost made it level, but the pass he received was called offside by a few fractions meaning the goal he scored to equalise was taken away. Controversy ensued but the replay did show a small yet considerable amount with Horta receiving a yellow card for the scenes following the decision. Mavinet put a nail in the coffin however on top of the ninety when the second goal was put in with a great swerve into the top left corner of the net leaving the goalkeeper little chance. A defeat for New Lusitania for the second time in three games leaving some already questioning the team and coach's decisions with a corner of the stadium booing the side as they left the pitch.
Matchday Four sent the team south to the Minervan City of Coimbra. The Selecção managed to get a decent showing due to the student influx but a game against Sharktail would be one that could define the group. Two changes as Nevais came in for Azinheira and Guerra for Horta following his yellow card. An extremely well contested match, it saw it's first goal just before halftime when Daniel Jota slotted it in after a pass from Fernando who was deep in enemy territory to put the Lusitanians in the lead. The second half provided even more thrills with Silveira hitting the bar and Veiga putting it over the bar. The goal for Sharktail however came in on the seventy-second minute; hailing from a counter-attack Azaim ran all the way to the box before passing it to the side cheekily to Virman who put it in easily after fooling the goalkeeper so easily. A draw would be seen through and whilst it was another point, jobs were now seen as on the line during the next international break following what the press called a Disgrace. New Lusitania were now ninth and not last due to Hwiccemark's failure to score a point so far after defeats to Damukuni and Mavinet. Unimon were ahead after grabbing another four points, fruit of the draw Havynwilde and the win to Damukuni. Havynwilde's second game meanwhile, was a defeat to the Minarchists 3-1 with a team which is shocking everyone so far, leaping to fifth following the Northmen's heavy defeat to Nephara despite a win to Sharktail the game prior. With the Damukunians now fourth and the Selecção's most recent adversary in the bronze, Mavinet took to an impressive silver with nine points as Nephara reigned supreme and undisputed at the top. The next match being against Nephara, it'll no doubt take an absolute miracle to do anything against them, especially away, with a team that seems incapacitated to say the least. Fernando's training injury puts a further spanner in the works as he is cast in doubt for his next few duties as Jota is out after an injury against Leiriense at his club's Anta do Dragão. This makes the situation extremely complicated even if "hope dies last" as the nervous coach said. The following game is at home to Havynwilde, a game all expect to win despite recent stumbles and any other result could be enough to send Grilo on his way out of the Selecção after just eleven matches (in that instance). With all this uncertainty and the spheric rolling on the grass being a fickle and unpredictable thing, the World Cup Road continues in November with these matches which the team hopes could elevate them and reignite the flames...


Goals> Silveira (1), Veiga (1), Jota (1)
Assists> Horta (1), Gama (1), Fernando (1)

----
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Official Broadcasters of the World Cup.
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[Delaclava]

Durbridge, Detmer lead refusal to play in Dreamed Realm

Catherina -- All 45 players in the Delaclava national team pool and the entire coaching staff have declared not to travel to their scheduled away match against The Holy Empire, according to an statement written by manager Johannes Detmer and captain Keaton Durbridge and signed by all available players and personnel.

Detmer and Durbridge delivered the announcement at a press conference at the Delaclava Football Association headquarters, and answered additional questions following the announcement. They were accompanied and supported by DFA President Ted McQueen.

"We have arrived at a consensus belief that it is not safe or advisable for us to attempt the commute to and from The Dreamed Realm, nor to authorise another party to do so," Detmer said to the reporters gathered in the DFA ballroom. The typical procedure for traveling to the Dreamed Realm entails the claimed construction by Orthodox monks of a portal to the Dreamed Realm, which cannot be accessed by conventional travel methods.

Durbridge further explained, "If we can't reach a destination on our own accord - plane, boat, whatever - we really shouldn't be trusting anyone else to do for us. It's a massive entitlement and self-privilege to expect that strangers will just follow them wherever they're going to take us."

Additional concerns were raised about a possible MARG-20 virus which could lead to increased unpredictably, which Detmer described as "perhaps a further opportunity to allow the subversion of the rules of football and turn a legitimate competition into a farce." Durbridge was even more cynical about the origins and danger of the outbreak: "When you look at a shadow government that remains so isolated from everyone, and insists on being so self-absorbedly enigmatic, and they're talking about this virus that they purport to know nothing about... it tells me something like this was engineered to be far more nefarious than they dare to let on."

"They're on a long and slow fall from grace, and we're on our way bak up. We don't need to waste our time or well-being dealing with this. They can play against some figments of their imagination."

It seems likely that will be the solution - to allow alternate-reality versions of the national team starters to be employed for the match. Regardless, it is another quirk in what has already been a World Cup campaign fraught with complications. The Delaclav team had already faced sanctions for forfeiting an AOCAF match against the illegitimate territory from Sylestone, until the DFA fully exonerated and supported the team for their actions. The Phoenixes (2-0-2, 5th place) have performed moderately so far but not with the superior results they had hoped, and the strategy to play Audioslavia behind closed doors only somewhat paid off, as Delaclava looked nearly equal to the lauded Audioslavians but nevertheless lost 1-0.

When asked if the Phoenixes would be able to find some normalcy and consistency in their campaign, Detmer answered, "It's been odd, hasn't it? But we can't focus too much on long term narrative. It's your job to write these stories. It's our job to take one match at a time. There's no narrative for us if we don't win the matches we think we need to win."

Durbridge added, "There's nothing consistent or normal about the world we play in. It's a lawless and fragmented community, and everyone plays by their own rules. The best we can do is play by the rules of association football and to our standards. Control what we can control."

Instead, Durbridge complimented his squad for the "massive strides we're taking each day," pointing to a road win over Lovisa that avenged an unexpected loss to the upstarts in the Mike Sarzo Memorial Trophy. "We hope we began to erase the black eye of that loss with our performance," Durbridge proclaimed. "However the Empire match gets handled, we're looking forward to coming back home to Irisbenis and playing Southwest Eastnorth. It's a must-win if we want to accomplish something special."

Durbridge will not be starting for that match, where the Delaclava team will be composed mainly of second- and third-tier players, but Durbridge will be with the team as a bench player and leader. "We have a lot of young guys champing at the bit for their chance," Durbridge explained. "I'm excited to see it. And if I need to step up for us to pull out a win, I'll be there too."

Durbridge is riding on high form thanks to his performances with Di Maozoxe in the Farf state league. In two playoff games to secure a spot in the top league, Durbridge scored three goals and three assists in a 7-1 victory over Torrhe del Viento, then another goal and assist in a 4-2 win against Fryi Frêndê. Durbridge praised his Farf teammates for "coming together in the clutch to play our best and keep chasing after the title." The usually humble Durbridge acknowledged the quality of his individual performance, and towards the end of the press conference, was hopeful about the effect on his team:

"I believe it's going to rub off on the rest of the team. So many of us are playing in deep, talented leagues and getting this exposure to high-level football, and bringing that back here... It all starts and ends with this national team, and we're always getting closer and closer to our dreams."

Scores

Lovisa 0–1 Delaclava

DEL, Kohut (Ingram, Keating) 57'.

Soler; Lemieux, Davis, Berrera; Keating, Romeijn (Albert 46'); Nazaryan, Campbell (Ingram 46'), Durbridge; Kohut (Assink 80'), A. Gusev

Delaclava 0–1 Audioslavia

AUD, Puskas (Moxey) 27'.

Ross; Lemieux (Assink 83'), Nazaretian, Berrera; Keating (Martin 46'), Girardi; Ingram, Zaitsev (Campbell 46'), Durbridge; Kohut, Meyer.

Lineups

@ The Holy Empire

Starters: "Ross"; "Cicak", "Nazaretian", "Berrera"; "Keating", "Girardi"; "Ingram", "Zaitsev", "Durbridge"; "Kohut", "Meyer".
Bench: "Soler", "Janaczek", "Lemieux", "V. Gusev", "Joseph", "Martin", "Albert", "Nazaryan", "Romeijn", "Rogers", "De Vroome", "Hovhannisyan".

vs. Southwest Eastnorth

Starters: Gelashvili; Pan, Davis, Torres; Martin, Romeijn; Harvey, Campbell, Rogers; Kohut, Meyer.
Bench: Soler, Young, Lemieux, Andreu, Joseph, Keating, Pierson, Lindblad, Mikines, Durbridge, Hagelin, A. Gusev.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Weekend 2020
BP look to bounce back at home
by Mindy Cartwright, National Soccer Editor

The Commonwealth National Team return to action in Group 18 of qualifying for World Cup 86, when they host Savojarna at the BBP Stadium in the first of a pair of important matches during this international break.

The side will try to avoid suffering back to back home defeats for the first time in 32 matches, dating back to a pair of friendly losses against Taeshan and ZSeparatists during the qualifying for World Cup 84, both 1-0 setbacks.

A stronger squad is expected for the visit of the Savojars and the subsequent trip to Busoga Isalnds than the one that dropped a 1-0 decision to Mercedini, redeemed with a comprehensive 4-0 win away against Murphtannia—the 650th match in FAC history—in the first meeting between the nations.

The loss on matchday 3--which snapped a nine match home unbeaten string, as well as a seven match overall winning run--was a disappointing display against the 34th ranked Mercedinians, but not shocking in a way it might've been previously; several other top national sides have struggled or dropped points after 4 matches, so viewed in that context it shouldn't be a surprise that the second seeds earned a vital away victory. The Commonwealth are one of ten top seeds who have dropped points so far, including six of the top 10 in the KPB rankings.

Savojarna currently lead the table with 10 points through the first four contests, a scoreless draw at Twicetagria the only blemish, with Mercedini and Baker Park a point behind, followed by Cheergirls on 7.

Lineup MD 5/6

vs Savojarna
Gaines; Bartok, N Underwood, O'Connell; Callum, Westmoreland, Taborn, Fernandez; Bozeman; Patton, Tilton
subs: Coffey, Briggs, Stephens, Rasanamira, Hayes, Sotolongo, Ngoba, Porter, Simmons, LeClair
vs Busoga Islands
Coffey; Briggs, Rasanamira, Stephens; Porter, Westmoreland, Hayes, Ngoba; Sotolongo; Simmons, LeClair
subs: Gaines, Bartok, N Underwood, O'Connell, Callum, Taborn, Fernandez, Bozeman, Patton, Tilton

[Recuecn]

Rumors were circulating in les licornes' locker-room.

"I don't get it, that's what coach does best... so why would he need someone else to do it for him?"

"So is coach retiring then?"

"I heard it wasn't his idea."

"I heard Bonheur isn't really a fan."

"Does he feel like he's being replaced?"

"Is he being replaced?"

"God, I hope..."

"What?"

"I was saying, I hope not."

"I did think coach was looking a little shakier lately."

"He's getting old, you know."

"Getting? He is old! He's what, seventy-three?"

"Who are they picking?"

"I heard it's some Ministry of Sport bootlicker."

"I heard it was the Ministry that made this happen."

"I thought the new position is just a glorified athletic trainer?"

"What's it called again?"

And then, the only thing everybody could agree on: "Some made-up thing. I have no clue."

---

Jacques Tremblay, 'coach', somehow had his finger on the pulse of the locker-room as always. Sometimes it baffled the players how well he knew their moods or unsaid thoughts—it was a frequent occasion that he would call a meeting and answer a question they'd been meaning to ask him the next day. So although no topic for the meeting had been given, with all the rumors that had been going around, everyone thought they had a pretty good sense of what would be discussed.

Tremblay's first sentence confirmed everybody's suspicions. "I know you've all heard some talk by now about the EN^{[Équipe Nationale: National Team]} staff adding a new member. I've realized that as long as it's just talk, some people start to worry, and you might get some wrong ideas about what exactly is happening. So I'm here to tell you that yes, we'll be welcoming someone new to our senior management staff, and I also hope to clear up any misconceptions you may have."

Tremblay paused to clear his throat and continued. "The new position we've added is a paraclete. I know you haven't all worked with a paraclete before, but he will be assigned to make sure you're all physically, mentally, and tactically fit. That means some PT, better targeted training exercises, and individual interviews—not therapy, therapy is important, but when you meet one-on-one with the paraclete it will be aimed at understanding how you fit with the team and how you can make sure you're the best you can be and performing in that role the best you can. The paraclete will also be working with me and Bonheur as we come up with long-term team and individual strategy, and to a lesser extent match-by-match gameplans. All of you will answer to the paraclete the same way you would to me or Bonheur, and the paraclete will answer to Bonheur and me the way Gerauld does. At least, we'll start out that way. The first month or so will sort of be a trial period; we plan on keeping him on, but the way he fits in with the team may shift a little."

Tremblay paused again. Expectant stares met his gaze. "Any questions?" he asked.

"Yeah," said Cutrona. "I know you just explained what it is, but how come I've never heard of a paraclete before? What's it mean?"

"It's a Greek word, and it means 'comforter', or 'helper'," said Tremblay. "One who accompanies."

Cutrona glanced at Kayserling, who had studied Greek. Kayserling shook his head almost imperceptibly. "I think it means 'lawyer'," he whispered under his breath. "Or, what do you say... 'advocate'. Something like that. He's close."

Tremblay hadn't noticed the distraction. "Think of him as your personal trainer, for both body and mind. But unlike your other physical trainers, he'll be working with you a little more closely to figure out how you work—and how you can work together."

"You keep saying 'him'," said Lebo. "Who is it?"

"It's Ägidius," said Tremblay.

This was received warmly. "Ag!" "Aggie!"

"Oh man, I missed Ägidius," said Kayserling.

"He wasn't gone that long," smiled Tremblay. He was right. Ägidius, the team's former left back, had retired at the end of Reçueçn's last domestic season, and had only missed one cycle of international play since then.

"Just out of curiosity," said Lucian in the tone of voice the fully belied his ulterior motive, "Whose idea was the new position?"

Tremblay seemed oblivious, or at least pretended not to see that the question was a loaded one. "My wife's, actually," he said with a smile. "Gracelle's been taking an increased interest in you boys lately. I suppose retired folk need something to occupy themselves with."

"So will you be doing less then?" asked Franky. "How much of what Ag will be doing is stuff he's taking over from you?" He voiced the fear of the entire team. Was the introduction of this 'paraclete' just a ploy to slowly start Tremblay on the slippery slope to permanent retirement?

The coach himself seemed to shrug off the idea that he'd be stepping back at all, as if it was his last concern in the world. "I won't be doing less at all. In fact, I'm hoping that this will increase our ability to support you as a senior coaching/management team, which probably means more work for me. But I will be trying to specialize more, so perhaps my role is changing a little, yes."

The players looked at each other nervously. Was someone else trying to push the admittedly ancient Tremblay out of the team, unbeknownst to himself? Was it the ministry? Was Bonheur in on it? Was Gracelle, Tremblay's wife?

For once, Tremblay seemed not to pick up on the atmosphere. "Well, great! If there's no more questions, I have a lot to do to get ready for Ägidius' arrival tomorrow, so I'll see you later when we practice for the game against Praeceptia!" And with a smile, he turned and left.

[Valanora]

Laborious Hawk wondered what was going on with his homeland, as apparently a long lost Raynor had made themselves known on the very day that the succession deliberations were taking part in the Senate. By all accounts, the woman seemed elven at the least but she did not have much resemblance to that of Tobias or his family, which begged the question as to the validity of her claim. For the legendary captain, he had to think that it was a bit odd that the claimant would appear now instead of when Hector was first elected and he would want to know the story behind that and where she was all this time. Timing in life was always something of an oddity, with all of its relativity and how one could gain and lose time, but it was what it was and the timing for this was just further indication that time was all a bit on the weird. Nevertheless he was sure that the proper authorities would get the whole mess sorted and if she truly was of that great noble family, then her claim to the throne was just and it would only be fair for the government to crown her as the Empress of the Eternal Empire.

He had another thing more close to his attention and that was the continuation of leading the Marauders through the Qualifiers, having had to bring their morale up a bit after a shattering morale breaking draw in Capri against the subregional rival of Qasden. The late equalizer had put a real dent into the squad as well as the crowd, Hawk knew that the supporters were probably as frustrated as the squad had been following that turn of events and that likely were pointing fingers at the various players to make the excuses as to why the result went the way it did. With the morale shattered a bit, Hawk went with the only thing that he knew would get the team back to into good spirits before the morale dropped too low, the team went on a trip to one of the numerous bowling alleys in the capital rather than review the game footage the day after the match. Surprisingly it was not Hawk who emerged the victor after the trio of games, but rather that it was Harlem Saxstrom who surprised the whole team. By the end of the day, Hawk could definitely tell that the squad's spirits had been lifted and the dread of another run of poor form through the Qualifiers had lifted.

The team traveled to Ancherion and absolutely looked the better team, besting their hosts by a final score of five to one, blitzing through their hosts as if the squad was a hot knife and Ancherion was butter. Hawk himself had a fairly decent game, grabbing himself an assist and a goal on either side of the half respectively. Harlem took her good spirits from the bowling trip to grab herself a brace, being the benefactor to Hawk's assist, having playing a nice one-two connection with him to get in behind the defense and placing her shot. However the squad had to get back to reality with the trip back to the Hatire Memorial, as Hawk had started the game on the bench having been rested in an effort to give some of the more fringe players some time in the first team. That proved to be a detriment and Hawk had to come in the second half to lead a comeback, getting the game winning goal in the eighty-second minute from a freekick just outside the area, a trademark of his. In the end, it was a four to three victory but it was a wake up call not just to Hawk but the entire team that they could not simply rest on their laurels. His guidance and skill was still required, especially if the Marauders had any real intentions of finally adding a sixth star to their crest.

[Oberour Ar Moro]

One benefit of the Ministry of Culture running every part of football in Oberour Ar Moro is that if the national team wanted to get players from their domestic clubs to practice as a national team, they could make it happen. So some forty players travelled from Cyrene, Calchedon, Marisca and the rest of the Dominion would regularly travel once a week to the Tourbillon Forest.

And in the midst of players working on their national team preferred fitness, Manager Matthieu Augier pulled Iudicael Breut aside.

“I wish you would put a bit more effort into practice.” Breut couldn’t help but notice the incongruity. This intimidating man with a full beard and tattoos crawling up his neck and down his arms to his fingers speaking soft softly.

Augier was trying to be friendly, or worse, fatherly, which he absolutely had no need for.

Breut responded with a blank expression and unshakable confidence. “I really turn it on during games. You can ask Ronan.” Breut turned as if he was going to call for his Hibernus teammate Ronan Vrely, currently running his lap on the far side of the field, but Augier stopped him.

“Does only turning it on for games have anything to do with you partying late last night?” Augier responded while pulling his phone out, on a Bestmark post. And there was Iudicael, clear as day despite the darkness of the club, having a good time with a young women on both arms and a drink in his right hand.

Iudicael was shaken, and was prepared to make an excuse. “Just don’t say anything Iudicael, there’s more where this came from,” responded Augier. He sighed and shook his head. “You know that I want to put you on a roster Iudicael. Hell, I’d like to start you at some point.”

Iudicael had his dander up now. “Then why don’t you?”

“Because if you aren’t taking this seriously you’re going to harm the team, and ultimately yourself. Do you want to be too toxic to put on a national team before you’re 20?”

Breut looked back at his manager dismissively. “You should put me on the field and I’ll show you what I can do.”

Augier’s eyes narrowed as he responded. “You’ll need to show me before that.” He gestured his head towards the field, as the majority of players had made their way back around the pitch. “Now get back running. Take it seriously.”

Player and manager stared daggers at each other before the player rejoined the pack.

---

Breut joined the rest of the players picking up their things, before heading out for the day to return to their domestic clubs. As he walked towards his car in the parking lot he looked through his phone, checking the messages he’d missed. One stopped him in his tracks.

His mother had texted him from her home in Almanarre. She wrote “Today is your father’s birthday.”

Iudicael stared at it, before going to the menu and deleting the message. Why does she think he cares if it’s his father’s birthday? Why does she even care? He’s not around, and he’s no one who should be remembered, let alone celebrated.

Just another person he doesn’t need. Iudicael walked to his car and tossed his cell phone onto the passenger side seat, and started the drive back to Regium.

[Nephara]

Nephara 3 - 0 Minarchist Free State
(4-4-2) 20 - Provost; 18 - Rostock, 5 - Thorn (c), 22 - Lockheed, 3 - Muscadin (19 - Katarec 61'); 13 - Koerner, 4 - Shone (15 - Kastriot 67'), 8 - Cromwell, 11 - Deventer (16 - Caracole 76'); 9 - Bastable, 10 - Lovelace
Goals: Cromwell 20', Bastable 31', Lovelace 35'

Terre Septentrionale 0 - 5 Nephara
(4-4-2) 1 - Provost; 2 - Stride, 5 - Thorn (c), 6 - Brosch, 3 - Muscadin; 7 - Kuepper (13 - Koerner 27'), 4 - Shone, 21 - Moxham (8 - Cromwell 73'), 11 - Deventer; 9 - Bastable (17 - Avetisyan 56'), 10 - Lovelace
Goals: Moxham 6', Bastable 17', Lovelace 38', Thorn 44', Deventer 76'

THE HERALD
CORMORANTS CRUISE TO CRUSHING VICTORY OVER TEN-MAN SECOND SEEDS
Anders Sonnett

After a stuttering start to the campaign, this was Terre Septentrionale's chance to put down a marker. Talismanic striker Sandie McCracken had been rushed back from injury, and had just proven why so much was around her shoulders; a spectacular falcon flooring Moxham, Normadin taking full advantage to push forward, pasing to Kolodziejczyk, who played in McCracken with her first touch.

Her Klub Turystow Rzodkiewnica teammate only had a fraction of a second to fire, facing pressure from Nephara captain Thorn, and lashed a vicious snap-shot that Mercator, at full stretch, tipped onto the inside of the post. It retained the momentum to smack against the other post, and only the pace and deft feet of Ilyana Brosch saw the clearance made before Cwierczakiewiczowa could follow the shot in. Three minutes in, Terre had had the first real chance of the game.

Six minutes in, Nephara had enjoyed the second, Chimera Moxham - still distinctly red on one cheek - absolutely hammering a shot into the underside of the crossbar, leaving Vainqueur without a chance. The Cormorants did not look back; Bastable nipped in ahead of Bzezanczyk to inelegantly stab home a low cross from Kuepper a few minutes later before a lunging challenge from Wlodzimierz Waclawczyk forced Kuepper to limp off, but saw him down the tunnel.

Daniella Strauss was eager to keep up the momentum, and only grew more frantic on the sidelines as the match went on - particularly as Terra almost pulled one back, a magnificent one-two setting up Roksana Kolodziejczyk for a chance at a lifeline, but again Mercator got down well to claw the shot away and again Brosch was there to cover the loose ball.

But Nephara's extra bodies told as the Cormorants passed the ball around with an easy confidence that was perhaps not the case even a decade ago, Anselm Koerner adapting to the game sharply down the right wing; the Rovers winger's cross found Bastable's chest, the striker's immense strength allowed him to hold back his marker before chopping an inelegant backheel that let the overlapping Konrad Lovelace drive home the surely decisive third, which became four soon afterwards when the captain rose highest to meet Moxham's corner.

By now all intrigue in the fixture was dead, and Terre's priority was to sit deep and protect their honour. They did so well enough, with goalkepeer Vainqueur making up for his first-half failure to make a save by denying Bastable and Deventer sharply, but Deventer did get on the scoresheet with a swerving strike - Vainqueur perhaps unsighted by a mass of bodies. By then, Stade NordAir was deathly silent and starting to empty at the edges.

Does this mean that the group is signed and sealed? No. While the result was wholly deserved - Nephara played flawlessly, Terre dreadfully - and helps open up a three-point gap at the top to Mavinet, the Nordiques remain a strong side capable of a much better showing in Sabrefell on the return leg, perhaps more dangerous for their travails here. Nevertheless, the Rushmori champions have defeated their greatest test in spectacular fashion, and this is a powerful statement of intent to the rest of the multiverse.

NEPHARAN NATIONAL TEAM SELECTION - FORTNIGHT 3
Goalkeepers: 1 - Hesterine Mercator (Eastweald, COS), 12 - Alexandra Markgraf (Sabrefell Moths), 20 - Aranea Provost (Holdefnberg, EUR)
Defenders: 2 - Rovena Stride (AFC Treason), 3 - Vivica Muscadin (Sabrefell Moths), 5 - Roxelana Thorn (Revolutionaries, EUR, c), 6 - Ilyana Brosch (Brinemouth), 18 - Linde Rostock (Stahlburg City), 19 - Sander Katarec (Starling), 22 - Gabriel Lockheed (AFC Treason)
Midfielders: 4 - Tawny Shone (Sabrefell Moths), 7 - Marica Kuepper (Jungle Strike, VIL), 8 - Lothaire Cromwell (AFC Treason), 11 - Morena Deventer (Brinemouth), 13 - Anselm Koerner (Chenoworth Rovers), 15 - Mercurio Kastriot (Crisisbless), 16 - Rasmus Caracole (Coret Hawks), 21 - Chimera Moxham (Crawford City FC, COS)
Forwards: 9 - Kurtis Bastable (Ulsa, EUR), 10 - Konrad Lovelace (Revolutionaries, EUR), 14 - Arista Tzorvas (CA Paulinthal, PAS), 17 - Voska Avetisyan (Cornellians, SCT), 23 - Traudl Mrdja (Vermillion Rage)

SCHEDULE
Nephara 4 - 1 Hwiccemark @ The Iron Hill (Vermillion)
Unimon 3 - 4 Nephara
Nephara 3 - 0 The Minarchist Free State @ Ludd's Hammer (Stahlburg)
Terre Septentrionale 0 - 5 Nephara
Nephara vs. New Lusitania @ Eagle's Club (Brinemouth)
Sharktail vs. Nephara
Nephara vs. Mavinet @ Farham Arena (Sabrefell)
Nephara vs. Havynwilde @ The Gauntlet (Treason)
Damukuni vs. Nephara
Hwiccemark vs. Nephara
Nephara vs. Unimon @ Phoenix Rise (Corvistone)
The Minarchist Free State vs. Nephara
Nephara vs. Terre Septentrionale @ Farham Arena (Sabrefell)
New Lusitania vs. Nephara
Nephara vs. Sharktail @ Eagle's Club (Brinemouth)
Mavinet vs. Nephara
Havynwilde vs. Nephara
Nephara vs. Damukuni @ The Gauntlet (Treason)

[Huayramarca]

Part 1., Part 2., Part 3., Part 4., Part 5., Part 6., Part 7., Part 8., Part 9.

Rewind.

Part 10., Part 11., Part 12., Part 13., Part 14 A., Part 14 B, Part 15, Part 16

Ñucanchi Ñan - Part 17.

Abra Mil Cumbres, Parcoy Department. - 11/04/1980 - 12:15 A.M.

Hugo Mina was breathing hard, his bodyguard who was rescued by him some hours before this moment was too, they were driving higher and higher into the Huayramarcan Sierra, the mission was clear, to take refuge in an unknown village in order to plan the last strike, the Illimani project has to begin, no matter what, but it is Mina’s last resort in order to get full power and “legitimacy” via brutal force displays. It was fifteen past midnight and they needed a break, also, the need to avoid driving the most risk-prone zone of the road under extreme pressure, so, they had to knock at a hostel in the Abra Mil Cumbres, the highest mountain pass in all Atlantian Oceania, at 5,775 meters above sea level, altitude wouldn’t be an issue for people accustomed to those heights, since 4100 meters above sea level isn’t an insignificant figure comparing it with the pass. The hostel was still open and they requested a room, the receptionist did the normal procedures to allow the clients go in and stay for the night, a freezing one at -5°C.

Mina was completely red-eyed and on hangover, it was noticeable, but nobody said anything nor took some pictures to him and then post those into the social networks, nobody dared to. Both of them fell over the beds, they didn’t changed clothes, they just wanted to sleep and then move to Vilcabamba without suspicion, since, it’d be weird to arrive into one of those lone villages at extremely early hours of the day. However, clock didn’t stopped his frenetic impetus and it was now 1:00 A.M. the hosts kept the doors open and blocked the room of Mina, the receptionist posted information about Mina into a Ñucanchi Ñan group, something that was completely possible because they were into the Sierra, no way to see an enemy go unspotted by people. “Hotel Santa Clara in Abra Mil Cumbres is where Mina’s staying right now, if somebody considers sending a ‘ronda campesina’ to the place, would be great.” To give some context, rondas campesinas are a small group of militias from the Sierra, usually act as self-defense groups against criminals.

Mina was completely asleep, meanwhile, the bodyguard was falling to the temptation of Morpheus, but he had to perform his duty as best as possible to safeguard Mina’s life, in hope of getting a possible bit into the deal of Illimani’s drilling; perhaps, he’s desiring or expecting a lot, but Mina was actually a person capable to do that, since it’s known that bad people isn’t completely evil, to the contrary belief, Mina was actually a great person with those who made favors to him, he knew how to compensate and keep those people close to him for the sake of his convenience. The guard decided to drink some coffee he had on a thermal bottle next to him, then, he activated the heating into the room and decided to dance with some videos he streamed on WeTube, hence, he was decently in shape in case something weird would happen soon.

The Ronda Campesina was arriving into the hotel, casually, the bodyguard decided to observe the Nevado Inti from his window, it was a full moon night, hence he was able to spot the gigantic 7,900 meters peak which wasn’t that far away, only 20 minutes away from the base camp. The ronda was walking silently and he decided to wake Mina up and run away, he dropped cold water on him and woke him up, Mina was way more conscious this time and saw how the bodyguard said “Shh, there’s a Ronda Campesina into the house, let’s scape through the window.” It wasn’t a high jump, 1 meter only and then 5 meters walk to the SUV to scape. The bodyguard opened it slowly and jumped, then Mina while the Ronda knocked the door down and pointed them with guns… They ran away and hopped into the SUV, turned it on and managed to scape somehow, still, with some broken windows due to gunfire prior starting it; they were breathing in peace, Mina decided to take his phone out and read the news, he found an article from the Turnip, a satirical newspaper from Electrum and saw a guide for correct pronunciation of nations, he found Huayramarca there and saw “Hooay-ra-ma-ra-ca” Mina was disgruntled on it since he’s obsessed on how people see the nation abroad, he want’s to establish a serious façade of Huayramarca always, still, he wasn’t that conscious and failed to recognize it was a satire.

Mina called the Army’s Chief and said “I saw an article from the Turnip, a newspaper on Electrum who ridiculed Huayramarca.” The Chief said “I know, it’s a satire only.” Mina said “No… I order you to kill Billiam Maskey and put a bomb into that shitty newspaper.” The chief said “But, we can’t go like that into a nation.” Mina said “Just do it. Failure to do so will imply that you’ll be the dead one.” The chief just said “We will proceed as soon as possible.” Mina was now calmed, while the bodyguard observed some sirens behind him, it wasn’t police, it was “La Ronda”, he said to Mina “Mr. President, La Ronda is chasing us” Mina’s calm was now perturbed, he could taste death on his mouth, hence, he asked the bodyguard to accelerate the most as possible to leave them behind.

It won’t be an easy task, they knew the terrain perfectly, it was their territory, while the bodyguard had barely experience driving at that zone before, hence, he had to be completely confident of his GPS system in order to anticipate some zones and then accelerate in order to leave them behind. He was driving at 100 kph in a zone where the limit is only 60, still, wasn’t enough since La Ronda was getting closer, some shots were fired and hit the rear car glass… Fortunately, the glass has some protection in order to resist this kind of situations, however, the glass won’t resist eternally and they had to act… Hence, the bodyguard decided to do a weird maneuver and waited for the pick-up with La Ronda, then, their car was close enough to break hard and then tailgating them into a cliff. They didn’t managed to send the pick-up into the cliff, but was enough to send two people into it who were on the pick-up’s platform, their driver managed to recompose himself but it was late, the bodyguard rushed into the road and then decided to go to another village instead of Vilcabamba, he decided to head to Llacuabamba, the detour was close and it’d be easy to confuse them.

After two more hours of drive, they reached Llacuabamba, in order to relax and expect for a new day, where he would have chance to let things chill down and then, go to the Illimani’s reserve to supervise the mining project, which would begin in a couple of hours, since the machinery was in its road to Huayrasuyo Department. However, Mina’s days were counted and death was looming around his life.

[Pasarga]

The fans of the Wanderers were starting to stress with their qualifying group, having defeated Eura in Torgos but then were unable to find a way to get a winner against Fujai. This was a team that when the groups were announced that the entirety of the footballing fans in the nation had pencilled in as a surefire six points for the side. Somehow despite all of the attacking talent and defensive discipline that is at the Wanderers' disposal, Fujai simply would not call it quits and fought back against the team each team that they went ahead, even when Júlia Müller had put the Wanderers ahead with just a quarter hour to go. It was the third time that the Wanderers had gone up by a goal in the match, having opened up the scoring, having scored shortly before the half time whistle, and then that strike with fifteen minutes left on the clock. And for each one of the punches that the Wanderers had, Fujai bounced right back with a counter punch of their own, grabbing an equalizing goal in the eighty-seventh minute that made their home crowd roar, but it left a very bitter taste in the mouth of the Wanderers' faithful.

There had to be no mistake among the team, that was a crucial pair of points that they had let slip through their fingers and it made the fans wonder if perhaps the striking talent for the team was perhaps a bit too old. Of the six strikers that were in the pool for the Qualifiers, there was likely only two that would likely see their names being called up for the Qualifiers in two years time when the eighty-seventh edition of the competition rolled around. Jager would be far too old to even be a real option at that point, while Makai, Horvat, and Szôllôssi would have a mountain to climb to prove that they were still worth the selection over more promising younger talent that would need to be bled into the team so that the Wanderers could continue their upward trend and not be lost in the mediocrity that the team had fallen into in the last decade. Winning the Cup of Harmony was all well and good but it was not the same as winning the Copa Rushmori or making runs in the knockout rounds of the Finals, which were now the standard of the squad with the success that had become part of the national team legacy.

Was that a fallacy, to set up such high standards that for what most of the rest of the field would be a crowning achievement and steps in the right direction was seen instead as a bit of mid-level success that was not truly worth making a huge fuss over? For seventy percent of the nations that took part in the World Cup, making the Finals is a hope and dream, much less trying to find as measure of success in there, while having a good run in the Cup of Harmony is worth feeling pride over. How many of those one hundred fifty teams that would not be making the field would be happy with winning a Cup of Harmony or making it deep into the tournament, to see their squads making progress? The answer was obviously most if not all of them, it would be not just an obscure achievement that was only talked about as trivia or as a passage towards greater triumphs, as something of a stepping stone. No, for most of the other teams, they would have felt a surge of pride and accomplishment, though like Pasarga, there was likely thirty to forty teams for which such a success was but a footnote in their history and not worth the mentioning unless asked.

Fortune ebbed and flowed though and the fans had a dear hope that this was a time for a swelling of fortune, after having been brought low, brought down from their high tower where even being in the Cup of Harmony would have been an insult. The squad had done decently enough to stop the failure to qualify streak two years ago, though it was a bit in peril of extending to three cycles at times, but ultimately the squad came together and got the job done. It seemed to be in good spirits to begin the campaign with the defeat over their rivals of Eura, but the result to Fujai is a concern. The fans know that Vdara is on the ascent and was one of the teams that was identified by the media and analysts that could be a threat to the Wanderers' chances of progressing. A threat that has been made real with it being Vdara who sits at the top of the table through four matches and not the Wanderers, though it is only on goal difference. However the power of Vdara has been on significant display, with an amazing and out of the world tally of eighteen goals to the good through four games. With Vdara and Timuria still to play in the first half and knowing Eura will right themselves eventually, the stress for the team and its fans is on the rise, stress that can only be relieved through victory.

[Farfadillis]

“Stop it, stop it already!” She pulled away her arm as Ricardo, her messenger eagle, tried to bite a chunk out of it for the third time. But hey, she had managed to feed it. “Bad eagle! Bad eagle!” She yelled. The eagle did not understand her. She turned around and made her way towards the door. Carefully avoiding the multiple pieces of shit lying on the floor, she couldn't help but think about the day she had ahead.

Doña Martina, as those in the neighborhood knew her, was not just any other woman. A decade ago, she had been rather unremarkable. At the time, she was just the owner of a (quite large, to be fair) grocery store, married to a chef who trained messenger eagles as a side hustle. Her life had been dull, yes, but that's what she missed the most. The excitement of living in a pseudo-post-apocalyptic society will last you two weeks, tops.

When Farf society collapsed, Doña Martina found herself in an ideal position - insofar as one's position during societal collapse can be considered ideal - as her grocery store had a full stock of many basic necessities. Furthermore, her husband's messenger eagles, those pesky not-so-little things that had provoked daily shouting matches with her husband, were now incredibly useful: they could be used in lieu of cellphones to contact the rest of the supply chain and keep her grocery store somewhat afloat. For a while, she felt silly about having complained so much about the eagles scattering dungs in the living room, the bathroom and the kitchen.

Yeah, one decade later, she had now gotten the hang of the whole stay-alive-despite-the-anarchy way of living. She was even a heroin to the hundreds that relied on her ollas populares - if you're not Faroleran, the gist of it is that she prepares cheap food for everyone and it's free, so the poor get to eat. The whole neighborhood pulled together the money, the messenger eagles hooked her up with people who had food, etc. What made her a heroin was the fact that she wasn't holding the whole neighborhood hostage despite being in possession of their only way to reliably get food.

But life was tiring for Doña Martina. Behind the scenes, she worked around the clock to make sure everything worked perfectly. That every kid would get their bowl of guiso, that her two daughters could get a smidgen of an education and, crucially, that the messenger eagles would stay alive. After her husband's death, she was no longer able to get new ones - what with not having the faintest idea of how to train an eagle - and, well, it had been a few years already. Many had died. Only Ricardo was left. If Ricardo died, so would about a hundred people she knew. Yeah, stress.

As these thoughts circled her mind relentlessly, she stepped on shit. “Great. Third time today.” She thought. It was nine in the morning. She had to go to the grocery store, possibly get a shipment of rice or maybe potatoes, open shop, and maybe, if at some point no customers were looking, cry a lot.

The trek to La Querida - that was the name of her store - was always her highlight of the day. As she walked the streets, if she ignored the run-down once-posh homes that surrounded her, she could feel at peace for a few minutes. She could feel as if she could go back to simpler times, where what stressed her out the most was some eagles shitting, not some eagles shitting fire - that's a Faroleran colloquialism for dying, by the way.

As she arrived at her store, though, her shrewd self spotted something amiss: there weren't supposed to be twenty-two huge trucks parked right outside. Intrigued, she approached the nearest one and spoke to the driver.

“Buenos días, how may I help you?”

“Buenas, are you Martina Eli...” He squinted while staring at his clipboard. “... lizagambaraga” More squinting. “...lalalalalalalalde?”

“Yes.”

“Well, then this shipment's for you.” He stretched his arm outside the truck's window and pointed towards the other nine trucks. “It's... uh...” He looked at the clipboard again. “Well, it's a lot of things, really. Mostly food.”

“I think some wires may have been crossed, señor. I asked for a shipment of basic food. It's usually one truck, and I don't get to choose what's in it.”

“No, señora, I'm afraid it says right here you asked for everything inside in each and every one of these trucks. Look here.” The man showed her the clipboard.

After carefully reading its content, “But these orders are from ten years ago!” She blurted out.

“Uh... yeah, we've been going through the backlog. You have no idea how many extra shifts I've been putting in lately. Anyway, no need to worry. It's already been paid for.”

“What the- what? How? Who paid for this?”

“By a-” He turned around, and grabbed a piece of paper. In a huge, violent font, it read “SCRIPT”. “By an impossibly handsome and philanthropic individual that you should vote for, for president.”

“What?”

“Look, I don't know either. The script here doesn't even mention their name. Just enjoy the food. Better times are ahead. C'mon, let's unpack.”

Doña Martina spent the following hours helping the men stock up her grocery store with various foods. She hadn't seen an apple in years, but there were apples. Fresh apples. The whole scene felt very surreal for Martina. Better times really were ahead.

As one of the last boxes were being unloaded, one driver's phone beeped.

“Was that a cellphone?!” She asked, shocked.

“Ah, yeah. They're working again. It's a pretty recent thing.” The man replied, rather nonchalantly. “You're having eagle for dinner tonight” was all that Martina could hear.

Some more hours went by. By around five, they'd finished stocking up. She gave a generous tip to every one of the drivers - it was well deserved, she figured. One by one, they started leaving. One by one, she watched them go, tears of relief running down her cheeks. As the last truck left, the giant mural in front of the store was once again visible.

It now had a brand new political ad painted on it. A simple one at that:

ALEX TERÁN FOR PRESIDENT OF FAROLERA
I PAY FOR YOUR FOOD

[Brenecia]

Hampton Island 1 - 1 Brenecia
(4-3-3) 20 - Wright; 18 - Lonergan, 5 - Leadbetter, 6 - Mathers, 19 - Roscommon (3 - Prentice 68'); 8 - Matheson (c), 4 - Townsend, 14 - Caitiff (13 - Ridenton 64'); 7 - Cheney, 17 - Lindauer (10 - Ciogach 70'), 16 - Fletcher
Goal: Cheney 43'

Brenecia 1 - 1 Lisander
(4-3-3) 20 - Wright; 2 - Bravender, 5 - Leadbetter, 6 - Mathers, 19 - Roscommon; 8 - Matheson (c), 23 - Ondrejko, 14 - Caitiff (21 - Archer 79'); 7 - Cheney, 17 - Lindauer (10 - Ciogach 64'), 16 - Fletcher (11 - Pace 57')
Goal: Leadbetter 71'

THE ROZELLE OBSERVER
Is the hour finally right for Mhacha White?
Diarmuid Henderson

Just after the hour against Hampton Island, Brenecia needed a goal. Creidne Lindauer was struggling to find space behind a tightly-packed defence happy to take the result. Brelk-Xeral hooked her, replaced her with Kara Ciogach, an ice-cold veteran. But neither scored, and Brenecia had to settle for a point.

Five days later, just after the hour against Lisander, Brenecia needed a goal. Creidne Lindauer was struggling to find space behind a tightly-packed defence happy to take the result. Brelk-Xeral hooked her, replaced her with Kara Ciogach, an ice-cold veteran. But neither scored, and Brenecia had to settle for a point.

Brelk-Xeral is known for many things, and to put it charitably, one of them is 'consistent squad selection'. Nobody could accuse them of not knowing their strongest XI, but they're also very consistent in who tends to come on as well, often like-for-likes like Caitiff for Ridenton or relatively subtle changes like the Lindauer-Ciogach relay. Often, this is due to the side's limited depth; against the strongest opponents, Leadbetter, Townsend (missing against Lisander through suspension), Matheson and the unstoppable Cheney are all undroppable, while a lack of viable alternatives has given the same status to unremarkable but solid centre-half Keane Mathers.

And to be fair, on the defensive end, this has worked. The diamond of Wright - Leadbetter, Mathers - Townsend proved disturbingly hard to breach within Esportiva at the last regional tournament, and has conceded less than a goal a game in qualifying thus far. Finn Leadbetter in particular rates these days as one of the game's best emerging centre-halves. Given a few more years to bake, so could Casey Giltanan. And Wright between the posts already enjoys this status as the RCU number 1.

Up front, however, Brenecia look unimaginative if Lauren Cheney can't conjure something. She did early on against Hampton Island, but the guns fell silent against Lisander. There just isn't a lot of damage Brenecia can wreak to a settled defence, reliant as they are on finding space and exploiting it with pace. This works against the best teams, who will generally look to attack the Patriots, and thus play into their hands. But against a side willing to take a scoreless point, this requires different solutions.

This could require Mhacha White.

White's career hasn't quite taken off as it was supposed to, hamstrung by the implosion of the Centre for Excellence and, like Ursula Rankin before her, never quite breaking through to the FC Endeavour first-team. She eventually brute-forced her way through the door at Farrenton Athletic - notable for being the home of another troubled Brenecian journeywoman in Morwen Prentice, but probably more famous for fostering the talent of Galactico Mikhail Jashkin - but has thus far remained stubbornly third-choice for the Patriots, and sometimes not even that.

That could change here, though. White very nearly has Lindauer's pace and very nearly has Ciogach's finishing touch, and these days has grown into a broad frame to become stronger than either. She's also better as a hold-up player, interacting well with the midfield - it isn't difficult to see how Matheson, for example, could thrive even more in this system with someone to play off, as opposed to Lindauer and Ciogach both being most comfortable off the shoulder of the last man facing goal.

White isn't going to stay a prospect forever; by the time the World Cup comes around, she'll be 23. It's time for her to step up and really show what she can do in the navy blue... and time for Brelk-Xeral to give her the chance.

BRENECIAN NATIONAL TEAM SELECTION - FORTNIGHT 3
Goalkeepers: 1 - Cass Farrell (Northern Union), 12 - Anthea Finnan (Brigham, EUR), 20 - Scathach Wright (Raynor City United, VAL)
Defenders: 2 - Clovette Bravender (Ulsa, EUR), 3 - Morwen Prentice (Farrenton Athletic, EUR), 5 - Finn Leadbetter (Holdenberg, EUR), 6 - Keane Mathers (Northern Stallions), 18 - Sorcha Lonergan (Northern Union), 19 - Triss Roscommon (Revolutionaries, EUR), 22 - Casey Giltanan (Workers Union, EUR)
Midfielders: 4 - Finn Townsend (North Hall), 8 - Elysse Matheson (Hornchurch, EUR, c), 13 - Isla Ridenton (Jaglan Royals, SRS), 14 - Esther Caitiff (Southern Star), 21 - Gaheris Archer (North Hall), 23 - Tethys Ondrejko (Twin Saints)
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
Nethertopia 1 - 4 Brenecia
Brenecia 1 - 0 Darkmania
Hampton Island 1 - 1 Brenecia
Brenecia 1 - 1 Lisander
Gyatso-Kai vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Lo Santano
Pemecutan vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Ethane
The Fortem vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Nethertopia
Darkmania vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Hampton Island
Lisander vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Gyatso-Kai
Lo Santano vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. Pemecutan
Ethane vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. The Fortem

[Omerica]

my awesome blog

The Perfect Guide to Everyone In Qualifying Group 5

Sorry it’s late, but I couldn’t be bothered to do it until now. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Blampano
It sounds like a cooking vessel that’s liable to explode at any moment. I’m not sure it’s safe to have this around children. Exploding cookware is not something that ought to be let into this country and you can be sure my Diet member will be hearing about this shortly.

That’s probably what my mum would say, I think. idk, I’m not her.

Turori
It’s the place where that performance enhancing drink is from, right? I’ll take twelve! They’ve also got the cool birbs, right? Oh, and that Twii thing! That’s a really cool thing they have with that. I quite like that. I feel like this would make a good Twii, to be honest. Maybe a Twii thread, now that I think about it.

They’ve probably got this group wrapped up already, to be honest. And with all those things, how wouldn’t they!

Valladares
Your kings smell like stinky poo.

NorraLesse
I have just one question: why is there a random capital letter in the middle of your name? It’s just weird and it bothers me, is all.

The truth is that we’re still a year from the first full release of NorraLesse and there are just so many things to look forward to, it’s hard to keep track of everything. That may be one of the biggest things that would affect the first release though, so let’s just let that one slip away as soon as it gets away from us.

Garifunya
Weren’t they the lot who wrecked a World Cup qualifying campaign by failing to exist or something? If I recall correctly, they were in a group with a bunch of horses and finished second behind horses and ahead of horses. Garifunya forgot to pay their existence bill and had their existence cut off or something like that, so bad horses got a playoff because of it and won. It made some freakishly tall people mad.

I hope they do something like that again. They probably won’t, but it would be so much fun!

Astograth
Your Grand Duke smells like poo, but not those stinky ones like Valladares.

Omerica
That’s us!

Get a better manager. Maybe one like Daniella Strauss. I hear she’s really cool. Or maybe that Tlanx-Nulzk Hal. That flaming suit was amazing! Why Alexis Stephanidis? Who even is she? I feel like you just made up a name and expected us to believe you’d found a new manager.

The holy junta
There was a coup in the Holy Empire? That’s sad, ‘cause I quite liked the Holy Empire. I especially liked that musical number they did when we beat them that one time. I wasn’t alive then, but a friend showed it to me on WhoTube. I think the coup was because of that probability thing that’s going around there, but I don’t know. It was either that or all the Cocoa-bo that made them go berserk. Or the fluffy bunnies. Or the beach soccer hunks. Or any of their other squads…

Also, this junta needs to invest in some capital letters. The all lowercase thing is not a good look on them.

Gopnikea
I want more! I’d just hate to lose the opportunity, if I can help it. I should have gotten there earlier. The only reason I still haven’t lost to it is that I need that thing to be good or it doesn’t matter.

Well, I’ll give it to you. I've already done enough with it! It would be worth it to me if it was even a little better! For my own sake! If it isn’t already: I’ll give it to you!

Siovanija and Teusland
It’s like a United Republics with a good manager. And good players. And a good team. Playing in a good regional cup. They’re just better than us and it makes me sad. Why can’t we be good like that? Why can’t we have cool managers like Gavin Hughes instead of stinky ones pulled out of some no-name Second Division? Why can’t we have Premiership players in our squad? Why can’t we be two countries at the same time? (Wait…)

Can I have some of what they’re having?

my awesome quote of the day:
“That’s the look that means this is about to hit the cutting room floor.”

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United Republican Soccer Federation
6 Jacques la Rouge Road
Port Alexandre, MS 18-A40
UNITED REPUBLICS OF OMERICA

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Astograth 1–1 Omerica
World Cup 86 qualification — Matchday Three
Grand Duke’s Stadium, Rumiatzi, Astograth
Goalscorers: Aire Epherra 35’; Anaïs Guérin 21’
Omerica lineup (4–3–3): Alexandra McGuire; Sylvain Aiello – Anna Charles – Justin Thyme – Sacha Sepulveda; Nadiya al-Hashim – Paige Boyce – Maxime Fournier (captain); Rasoul Qadir – Anaïs Guérin – Wesley Sawyer
Substitutions: Sepulveda > Lauren Kerry (56’); Thyme > Charity Kayode (71’); Sawyer > Jamal Ahmad (81’)

Siovanija and Teusland 2–0 Omerica
World Cup 86 qualification — Matchday Four
Franz-Gorz-Stadion, Stelburg, Siovanija and Teusland
Goalscorers: Stanimir Ilev 26’, 70’; (none)
Omerica lineup (4–3–3): Alexandra McGuire; Sylvain Aiello – Anna Charles – Justin Thyme – Sacha Sepulveda; Nadiya al-Hashim – Paige Boyce – Maxime Fournier (captain); Rasoul Qadir – Anaïs Guérin – Wesley Sawyer
Substitutions: Boyce > Soraya Archambault (50’); Aiello > Alphonse Notley (67’); Charles > Charity Kayode (73’)

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United Republican Soccer Federation
6 Jacques la Rouge Road
Port Alexandre, MS 18-A40
UNITED REPUBLICS OF OMERICA

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Omerica v Holy Junta
World Cup 86 qualification — Matchday Five
Stade de la République, Romainbourg [Centre-Ville]
Omerica lineup (4–3–3): Rowan Greycastle; Darcy Francis – Frédérique Marquetti – Noah Clement – Felix Zanetti; Simone Bonfils (captain) – Fearchar Mac Cléirich – Alphonse Fontaine; Maïa Bustos – Alexis Chrysanthos – Adélaïde Argyris
Substitutes: Alexandra McGuire, Antoine Vicario; Sylvain Aiello – Anna Charles – Justin Thyme – Sacha Sepulveda; Nadiya al-Hashim – Paige Boyce – Maxime Fournier; Rasoul Qadir – Anaïs Guérin – Wesley Sawyer

Gopnikea v Omerica
World Cup 86 qualification — Matchday Six
Stadion z Ishm’, Mezzochorda, Gopnikea
Omerica lineup (4–3–3): Rowan Greycastle; Darcy Francis – Frédérique Marquetti – Noah Clement – Felix Zanetti; Simone Bonfils (captain) – Fearchar Mac Cléirich – Alphonse Fontaine; Maïa Bustos – Alexis Chrysanthos – Adélaïde Argyris
Substitutes: Alexandra McGuire, Antoine Vicario; Sylvain Aiello – Anna Charles – Justin Thyme – Sacha Sepulveda; Nadiya al-Hashim – Paige Boyce – Maxime Fournier; Rasoul Qadir – Anaïs Guérin – Wesley Sawyer

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[Ziwana]

Ziwana 0 - 1 Hinodejin: Akambuku second stringers fail to hold off the Poltergheists.

By Chosadziwa Botolo, Chief Football Correspondent

ZCOMM Sport @Izula National Stadium

12 August 2021 • 10:00PM

Ziwana lineup against the Poltergheists.Photograph: Kavinga Haqawi/Natty Images

Ziwani second stringers tried to hold group 12 giants, Hinode to a draw on matchday 3 but faltered in the final minutes of the game to give the visitor 3 points.

The World Cup Qualifiers are always an exciting treat for Ziwani football lovers. Getting to see the Akambuku play against the greatest athletes in the multiverse is an experience any football would marvel to. Playing against cyborgs, horses and magicians is indeed an amazing feet, especially for Ziwani people who are really proud of their nation that has existed for 1015 years. Matchday 3 was a game against a nation filled with pride and honor in Hinode, it was an Empire that most Ziwani marvelled at. The Ngwazi of Ziwana, Her Majesty Aisha Amanji would be in attendance and so would be the Empress of Hinode, Her Majesty Satomi III who would be managing the Hinodejin national team. The game would be very important for the two states women in pride and honor. Before matchday 3 a lot of preparations were made to host the Poltergheists, the team and the Empress would staying at the Palisi ya Kristalo (The Crystal Palace) right by Lake Birnin. For such an occasion the Ziwani national team would have to be on their best, however with the new Ziwana football league season starting in a few days, most key players were recalled from the Akambuku camp leaving the national team in a somewhat weaker state. Ziwana manager, Jean Wilder in the pre-match conference assured the fans that the Akambuku had not been weakened by the withdraw of key players. Wilder also addressed the Jean Sophie incident, begging the Ziwani fans to forgive the young player as the situation had been out of his control.

When the match against Hinode begun, it was clear for all to see that Ziwana lacked a cutting edge due to missing key players. The squad did have former first eleven starters in Graham, Thomas, Bayaram and Aristide but with the mixture of other players who they had never played a game with before the team lacked cohesion. Hinode who were favourites for the game performed their part by often getting into dangerous areas and challenging Ziwani shot stopper Jean Kane who had remained to help the Akambuku in the game. The second stringers did improve in the later stages of the first half with debut striker Orami Kambewa Serero having two chances against Myozan Namezono. Orami had shot wide in the 25th minute, scuffed wide another in the 31st minute and denied in the 40th minute by a Namezono save. After the game had ended Ziwani netizens had a lot to say about Orami's chances.

The first half ended with both teams frustrated and fans biting their nails. In NS World Cup Qualifiers, giant killing is very possible as the travelling usually tires the players which an underdog team can utilize to pull off a giant killing. With no goals for Hinode at half-time it must have been very worrisome for the players and fans. After the half-time break, Hinode increased their intensity and agressiveness whilst the Akambuku packed the bus to their fans disapointment.Tomofumi Ishimoda was on fire but like the Ziwani forward Orami he was unable to convert his chances, he missed four chances. His strike partner Ino Midaduki had also hit the inside of a post with a 25 yard freekick. As the Poltergheists stepped up their attacks, Jean Sophie who had embarassed himself in the previous match stepped up his game to meet the challenge. He made 5 successful tackles, 4 clearances, 2 blocks and 6 interceptions.The Akambuku second stringers truly proved that although they lacked an edge they were still very good. Ziwana finally faltered in the 88th minute when a Kotara Kastura header put Hinode one up. At the end of the game both sets of fans clapped for the players. Most Ziwani fans were also in awe when Hinodejin fans cleaned up after themselves when the match ended, truly indeed The Empire of Hinodejin has clean, honourable citizens.

Hinodejin fans clean up at Izula National Stadium after the match.Photograph: Kavinga Haqawi/Natty Images

Next match is against 75th ranked Riena. Ziwana are already on a 2 match losing streak, the next match is a must win if the Akambuku still want a chance at challenging for a qualification place. The match will be on Sunday the 15th of August tune in on ZSTV channel 321 or visit our website http://www.zcommsports.com to watch the match.

[Turori]

Turori look to Rebound after disappointing WC85 Exit'

La Fantás Farfadillis :: The stage was all set for the Turori National Team in the hunt for their first ever World Cup title. Playing inside Atlantian Oceania, they had made it back to the Quarter Final stage. It was a stage that had, for nearly 70 cycles, been the stage at which all Turorian dreams went to die. That, however, was a thing of the past. After suffering more Quarter Final defeats than any other nation that had failed to ever advance beyond that stage of the World Cup, Turori learned how to win Quarter-Finals. So perhaps one could not fault the Eels for having a watchful eye ahead towards the all important Semi-Final round as they stepped onto the pitch at La Fantas. The Eels had entered the match as heavy favorites having won each of their games in the World Cup to that point and having further defeated the Cup of Harmony hosts Kelssek in the Round of 16. On the other hand, the Free Republics looked to be a team just happy to have qualified for the World Cup - because they had barely done as much, and the Eels were hoping to finally send them packing.

When the match got started, it was clear that Turori were looking to set the tone early with Meldi'ita Mungwaii challenging Free Republics netminder Taras Sergeyev early in the match. While there was some back and forth action early in the game, the better quality chances from the outset had belonged to the Eels and they made it count in the 23rd minute when Mbdiai Akarenaa fired a long range effort just out of Sergeyev's reach to put Turori up 1-0. It was just the start the Eel's had hoped for but it was about to get even better. With orders from Rule Theriault to stop the attacking threat posed by Jungle Strike FC attacker Muldi'ita Mungwaii, Free Republics defender Zak Josef went in recklessly on the Turorian earning a red card. Nua'oma Aikiki would convert the resulting spot kick to double Turori's lead and many of the international commentators at La Fantas believed that the Aikiki goal would close the book on the Free Republics and cement Turori as favorites for the World Cup Title. They would be wrong. The Free Republics would get a goal back from Johnny Smith after Moumouni Verre'elali was cautioned for a foul giving the 10-man Free Republics side some hope heading back into the lockeroom despite their disadvantage in numbers.

Incredibly, the Free Republics would come out firing on all cylinders after the half time break. It is rumored that the half time conversation in the Free Republics lockeroom was very motivating in a "your entire world will come to an end if you don't win this match" kind of way, but, of course, history would ultimately reveal the opposite may have more likely been true. Regardless, on the day, it motivated 10-man Free Republics to score two goals in quick succession to take a stunning lead at the start of the second half. It seemed as if the Free Republics were destined to hold tight to their 3-2 lead but Akarenaa and Mungwaii teamed up in the 87th minute to light a fire under the Eel's and extend Turori's season with the late equalizer. By this time both teams were down to ten men and the scores were level. It was now a battle against exhaustion and Turori took the first shot at it, Aikiki getting their second goal of the game just before half time in extra time to seemingly put Turori through to the Semi-Finals. The Free Republics just refused to go away, however, and Faith Marshall picked up the trash inside the area after a corner kick to tie the game and ultimately send the match to penalty kicks. Unfortunately for Turori, 3 of their best penalty takers were on the sidelines or in the locker room while for the Free Republics, they had been playing for penalty kicks since 20 minutes into the game and every substitution they made in the match reflected that. Theriault's side had each of their five best penalty takers on the pitch at Full Time and the action to follow would reflect that.

Turori were absolutely humbled in the penalty shootout, eliminated on penalty kicks in the Quarter Finals as if it was the World Cup 20's era once more. To further rub salt into the wound, the Free Republics - a team that Turori should have easily disposed of, would go on and walk through the next two games to win their first ever World Cup title. A title the Turorian players felt should have been theirs.

But Turori's National Citizen Squad would have to begin the fight all over again in World Cup 86, once more in search of that elusive prize in the World Cup Final.

[Verceola]

OOC: In response to this RP

Skaddul Sounder

Mainland team's refusal to travel represents self-absorption, rejection of scientific progress

Written by Hartford Wells

Well, the privileged, soft, whiny, constitutionally weak children of the United Republic national football team have struck again!

Their coach, Johannes Detmer, and their captain, Keaton Durbridge, went in front of a pool of reporters and declared that they would not travel by constructed portal to the Dreamed Realm for the schedule away qualifying match. It is sadly a perfect demonstration of their unwillingness to be open-minded, to seek the perspective of others, and especially to appreciate the accomplishments of other cultures. They have also established an irrational fear not just of illness or injustice, but also of foreignness and different experiences.

Are they so unaware of the developments of the outside world that they do not realise that not everyone exists in the constraints of flying and sailing metal boxes? There are greater forces at work that they do not understand, nor attempt to access. Admittedly, our most intelligent minds are still working to understand such mechanics, but we have embarked on the path of knowledge, not chosen the shallow offroad ditch of ignorance. And it is horrifying to think they use this ignorance as an excuse to taunt, to mistrust, to enclose themselves in their tiny, safe echo chamber and inhale the wafts of stupidity and thoughtlessness.

It is not surprising that these two men are the coach and captain, the representatives of this team, for they each represent aspects of Republic culture that are so perverse and arguably un-Delaclav:

At 73 years old, Johannes Detmer will have always spent nearly the entirety of his life in an isolationist Delaclava. There is certainly inconvenience and limitation to that, not being able to visit other locales, absorb varying cultures, import swaths of information that are available to a more active participant of the world. But moreover, there is security and safety in that lifestyle, in that society. He has never truly had to face difference, think for himself, and make a logical decision based on what he perceives. It is no matter if he chooses to keep living this way. He is useless, practically dead. If he wants to live the remaining months of his life in the same manner that he has conducted the previous seven decades, that is his prerogative. But it is a massive disservice to his team, and to the nation they purport to represent, if he insists that much younger citizens will act in the same manner, without the opportunity for growth and enlightment.

But of course, how could any teen or twenty-something think that tolerance, civility, and acceptance is an option when the sheltered, flabby manboy Keaton Durbridge is their most prized athlete and a revered public figure? Keaton is only 26 years old, and yet seemingly there is no hope for him. He grew up rich and proud, swaddled and coddled, never with a need for exposure to the outside world or an openness to the ways of others. One would have thought, with the opening of the gates to Delaclava, it would have shattered the balance of his experience and forced him to adapt. But no, like petulant children, Durbridge and his cohort have insisted that their football, their work, their travel will be this way, their way.

We watched, disapprovingly, as they refused to cooperate with travel to Acronius last year, excused their losses on the minor difficulties they faced in their commute. We were frustrated with their demands when the Republic and Verceola teams agreed to two friendlies. They made and enforced risibly unreasonable hospitality requests to come to Sindsyge, put the Bulls through absurd customs to enter the mainland - even though, aren't we supposed to be Delaclav citizens as well? Stand aside and let us in! - and could not handle our physicality and grit. The scorelines said they were victorious, 4-1 and 3-1, yet their whines and jeers indicated that we had won the battle of respect and dignity. And don't get me started on their self-indulgence to choose that they would play a world-class side in their most disgustingly grandiose stadium, Golden Phoenix Field - without any fans! It was a decision made by the saggy, crumbling-to-dust Detmer, the essence of the mainland attitude that they are special, that they can make demands without regard for their finances, or for the spectators they claim to want to do right by. The purpose of a national football team is not to score, or win, lose, or draw. It is to represent, to carry the flag they fly, to act and play on behalf of their people! Morals and values ought to stand above results and desires, particularly the inconceivable, yet they made themselves bigger than the people behind them.

The Verceola football team is not good. There is no mistaking that. But with every loss and draw that has occurred so far, our men have gone about their business the right way - they have shown up anytime, anywhere, pledging to offer nothing but their best personnel, their most founded tactics, their fiercest effort, not so that they can win, but so that they can demonstrate the characteristics of a Verceolan. And eventually, with time and experience, wins will be the outcome. We value the scientific and logical method, and this is it: there are no shortcuts or gimmicks to the top of any field, only input and output. The mainland team seeks the path of least resistance, naturally, but they do not like that there is still resistance. They are not used to not belonging, unaccustomed to being bad, unaware that you must try and try again, try better and fail better.

Once, these noble characteristics were what distinguished Delaclava, and it is what we managed to preserve when we began Verceola. The narrative has been that Delaclava is back and better than ever. But while the shell of geography and government exists with the same name, the essence of Delaclava as it was once known is gone. Yet we have it, and we improved it in the name of Verceola. It is only a matter of time before the charade of Delaclava re-descends into madness. They will attempt to rise from the ashes like their Phoenix, yet we will simply stand tall.

[The Jovannic]

At a local Tavern in Jovannica

It was almost 2 hours after the game, but Jovannic fans were still on high...

SECOND! WE'RE SECOND!

ALL HAIL THE JOVANNIC!

Wow. Great matches today. Gothal Mathee really has made the team so much better.

Yeah. Jovan Ilohil has been on top form. A brace against Saltsteed was deserved.

And that winner against the other guy! Sensational.

Let's not dwell on the past. Now we must look at our next matches. First, Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom.

Very long name and a pretty good team. We will have to continue our form.

And after that Sulsuland.

Who?

Sulsuland. The land of Sulsus. And a Dave.

Very interesting. Should be quite easy to defeat I suppose.

Don't underestimate them. They have beaten teams before.

Ok ok. So, are you going to the Sohta dock to clean up the oil spilled on the beach? You said you volunteered for it.

Yeah, going tomorrow.

Well, good luck.

both gets whacked in the head by a Navin Tsuniki Poster held by an overenthusiastic supporter.

Fecking hell!

[PotatoFarmers]

Note that this RP is split into 2, between The Gothanita Isles and Poafmersia. There will be RPs in the future that are split like this one, so to read the complete story, you have to go on to the other side of the RP. This is Section B of the RP, Section A was posted earlier with TGI.

Previous RP (TGI - Ch 2 Part 4)
Previous RP (Poafmersia - Ch 2 Part 5)
Part 6a (TGI)

RP Series: Getting to the top
Chapter 2: A tale of 2 nations
Part 6: Forging plans (Section B)

If you were to ask and Poafmer, they will tell you this - every plan you have is bound to have some problems in execution. All you have to do is to think on the fly.

---

"What the hell?"
Adnan Suliaha woke up to find out that Joel Haodao and Pete Carisa were down with the flu. Stomach flu, the doctor's prognosis was that, and that they cannot make the trip to Southwest Eastnorth. Furious that it was poor food choices that led to this preventable last minute change in plans, he asked Haodao and Carisa to join them in Sylestone if they are better then.
Somehow, that change in plans turned out to be something that benefited the players. Hansel Tang got in 4 goals on a night where the attacking strategy paid off really well, as the team bonded together to ensure that they could score more than the home side. Tang opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a 1-2 passing with Dufour, then got a tap in the 19th minute after Daas Taisg got a through ball past 3 players. Although the hosts got 1 back through Houton, Monesty Erdos' long range screamer from 35 yards restored the Red Panjias' lead, before Kyra Thompson scored a header in stoppage time to leave Poafmersia only 1 goal up. The second half was a more neat affair. Houton equalised for the hosts in the 64th minute, but Hansel Tang managed to pile in the goals, first with a solo effort, then after getting a cross from Nero Wood.
After the match, Hansel Tang was super elated at being able to score 4 and help Poafmersia secure the 3 points necessary. According to her, she wasn't thinking about trying to be the first player to score 4 in a game, she was just trying to ensure that she can "do her best" and get all 3 points against Southwest Eastnorth. "Everything is about winning, no matter how you do it, you just have to win."
Then we look at how Poafmersia played against Sylestone. Originally, they wanted to copy the playbook from the friendly match - continuously attack and find some breakthrough when they get tired.
What happened then? Sylestone grew smarter. They just sat behind to park the bus. When Poafmersia pressed forward to try and regain possession, they just went all out and try to break our defence. If not for Jaliaha's brilliant saves, Poafmersia would have long went down. All of a sudden, Poafmersia just retreated, and played their posession-football. Defend, defend, defend. Forcing the opponents to come forward and fall into the trap seemed like a good strategy after all. In the end, it was Danzik Hoboson who got hold of the ball after a messy free-kick conducted by Shakira Handris, and that he promptly took the ball and tap it in past a Sylestone defence who failed to take notice.

---

When Poafmers hear about the marathon meeting The Gothanita Isles had to make in order to decide on how to slim down the league season, Poafmers laughed. The proposal to change to a full league format was passed in less than an hour - it was only the decision on who or what to get into the respective tiers. Even when the clubs started closing and an urgent change was needed to be made to the FA Cup, they agreed on a plan in 50 minutes. Is this then all about quickness? No. It is about the need to dictate your own plan and make it clear what should be done. Once you convince others that your plan works, which could be done by showing its effectiveness and addressing everyone's concerns, everything is a breeze.
The Red Panjias learnt the importance of tactical flexibility the hard way - by crashing their first half of the qualifiers in their debut cycle. They performed really badly, but after realising the need to be tactically flexible, they went on to dominate the second half and achieved a shocking 3rd place, giving the top 2 seeds in their group a run for their money.
Which is why there is such a saying in the football world:

Rules have to change. Football needs to be redefined.
All those people who have low-level ideas should not be here to mess things up.
Although we look kind-hearted, our intentions should not be exposed.
Only the strong people are able to use this skill, and shake things up.

---

Southwest Eastnorth 3
Houton 29', 64'
Kyra Thompson 45'

Poafmersia 5
Hansel Tang 12' (assisted by Dufour), 19' (assisted by Taisg), 75', 90' (assisted by Wood)
Monesty Erdos 38'

Starting 11: Sandi Jaliaha; Ariel Casey, Danzik Hoboson (c), Pasits Rikachz, Denise Pickford; Daas Taisg, Woden Sweet, Nero Wood; Hansel Tang, Aleka Dufour, Monesty Erdos
Substitutes: Arnold Shwentin (Taisg 68')

Sylestone 0

Poafmersia 1
Danzik Hoboson 76'

Starting 11: Sandi Jaliaha; Alex Hoboson, Danzik Hoboson (c), Simone Gori; Dargis Walshor, Arnold Shwentin, Donk Mason, Josef Gentry; Aubrey Mayer, Makana Tuft, Shakira Handris
Substitutes: Joel Haodao (Handris 62')

Starting 11 for next 2 matches against Silver Commonwealth, Euran Oceania Territories:
(3-4-3) Sandi Jaliaha; Alex Hoboson, Hollis Stephenson, Nasri Sanchez; Emma Conner, Arnold Shwentin, Woden Sweet, Josef Gentry; Hansel Tang, Makana Tuft, Shakira Handris (c)

[Ziwana]

Royal Ziwana Football Association (RZFA)
Mr Jack Chirwa, President
Mpira House; Area 18A
Birnin - Birnin-Likulu
ZIWANA

Equestria, 10 July 2021

Suggestion on NS World Cup stadium requirements

Dear General Secretary (NSWCC),

On 9th August 2021 on matchday 2, Ziwana were facing Zsepratists in a NS World Cup qualifier match when a predicament presented itself. One of the Ziwana national team players, 21 year old Jean Sophie found himself wanting to relieve himself in the middle of the match against Zsepratist. Jean Sophie admittedly run off the pitch without informing the referee which is an offence on its self. The player in question struggled to find a rest room to relieve himeself which resulted in the Ziwana national team playing with 10 men for 20 minutes. In those 20 minutes, the Zsepratists were able to score goal against our national side. The Royal Ziwana Football Association is really disappointed with the situation.

The Royal Ziwana Football Association had in previous years observed this problem of players wanting to relieve themselves and not easily being able to access a rest room during games in the Ziwana football league. To counter this problem, the RZFA put a requirement for all Ziwani football clubs to build restrooms near the football pitch. The RZFA wanted to suggest to the NS World Cup Committee General Secretary to consider putting the requirement that stadiums have restroom near the pitch to avoid a scenario similar to Ziwanas. Furthermore, Ziwana would like to suggest that a requirement of national sides to have stadiums staffed by people who can speak the common tongue so that their is no confusion for visiting sides.

In closing, the RZFA hopes this suggestion/proposal will be taken into consideration and inacted. We look foward to hearing from you and we fully remain at your disposal in discussing this matter.

Yours sincerely,

NSWCC
General Secretary.

[The Royal Kingdom of Quebec]

Auld Lang Syne

PART 7B.25 (24.25) - Tomorrow

'Congratulations, Asher.' said Myeong-Shin, as the Kingston Tigers third baseman grinned in utter satisfaction. 'You made it.'

'Thank you,' Asher responded, trying not to make too much out of it. 'Turns out they did like my talk after all.'

'They certainly did.' Myeong-Shin nodded, as the cup of coffee were laid out to each of them. The gala was a success, with the Erskinians of the past second century of Redmen and Redwomen Athletics successfully rejoicing and connecting up with one another. Asher was certainly a positive point behind that too.

One thing that Myeong-Shin was very happy (and surprised) about was how he seemed ready...for once. He was calm, well composure and of course, in steadiness. Standing confidently with a nice suit and his left hand on the pockets, Asher waived his hands around, walked around for a bit, even stepped down to the floor and landed basic, correct questions to the guests and just served as a guest. By the end of the night, Asher had long finished his scouting mission of meeting the right people, chitti-chatting with friends and teachers of old, and of course, not being overwhelmed with it. While those rewards weren’t going to be so evident yet, he knew that those networks would eventually reward him someday. That’s how he’s going to keep landing good stuff for Concord Height Times and Landslide International as well, he thought.

Of course, he had some people to talk to after-hours as well. After saying thank you's and goodbye's, which was followed by the exchange of business cards, Asher found himself in the middle of a quiet, midnight cafe somewhere in Downtown. Seated quietly at the very far corner, Asher Lundrigan and Heo Myeong-Shin caught up in person for once. It was a long overdue commitment, broken twice by their respective schedules as a globe-trotting journalist and a professional athlete, and now was sweeter because of it. Staying in the Southwest for most of the year, Myeong-Shin wanted to see how Asher was doing in his new life, and just spend quiet time together. Feeling tired, weary and somewhat flushed out, Asher just guessed and tagged along to his best.

'Heard from Myeong-Yoon about good times, Asher.' Myeong-Shin said to Asher, easily breaking the silence with his right index finger raised as Asher struggled to respond. Once again...reading my mind...once again... 'And she's right. Eileen's the right one for you.'

'I think so too.' Asher responded, both nervous but also glad that Myeong-Shin approved the situation. He knew that when it comes to love, a common ground had to be found in at least what someone's looking for. Myeong-Shin, being a longtime friend of his, understood that. Of course, he didn't understand then or now that this would be the third time they find something intimate if Asher makes it work with Eileen.

Then he just kept continuing, but somehow the mind was in a continuous loop of sentiments, as if he was being reminded of how stars aligned with that one look in her eyes that would make him drop dead. '...and her eyes...and her eyes...' He started repeating, using his hand to draw continuous circles.

'Okay there.' Myeong-Shin said in a deep voice, as he caught Asher's hand to stop it moving. 'I think we get what you mean. And you want to fall into this...love that you didn't deserve then, but would do anything to redeem, again.'

'I do...I do..I do...' Asher said, slightly looking down at the table to indicate his weakness and the desires. 'I know I made lots of mistakes when I was 17. Everything wasn't new, but felt new, and I was just...failing it back then. I'll do anything...if the lord permits me...to bring it back.'

'Stop being silly, Lundrigan.' Myeong-Shin let go of his hand, as it dropped to the table before continuing. 'I have told you not to be embarrassed over what had happened so long. Today, you nailed the alumni gala that many, including Sir Alexandre (Browne) or Dame Riley (Jeon-Keane), were worried about you being not good enough as a last-minute signup for hosting. Yet you did what I had long expected from you since we were 15, in being professional and eloquent. I thought I taught you better than that.'

'Yes, you did...but will it happen? Like that time was just one-off...and I may not get it again...'

'Believe in the miracles.' said Myeong-Shin, as he took a sip of his Huayramarcan coffee. The coffee, based on his facial expression, seemed to be just fine- maybe with a hotter temperature it would have been better for his taste. 'That's what I told you when my mother passed and you were wondering without clear means to reach Eileen the very first time...'

---

PART 7B.375 (24.375) - 진도상여소리

All was solemn and quiet in the mourning room of the Funeral Parlour attached to the Kingston Bannockburn Hospital. The hospital was located in middle of a famous river valley park that served as a key artery of greeneries on the Eastern half of Midtown Kingston, and the hospital's distanced location from Downtown had made things slightly difficult for outside guests to come.

Regardless, it was inevitable that the 3-day funeral, as traditionally done so in Quebec, was going to have a lot of out of town guests, but the volume of guests who came for the funeral of the deceased, certain Mme. Maureen Turner, Mrs. Heo Dong-Soo, was enough for everybody to feel overwhelmed. It was certain that none of Dr. Heo, Myeong-Shin or Myeong-Yoon, were really able to handle themselves much throughout the three-day partition period where the a small table is set up with a photo of the deceased and incenses. Drowning their feelings with the guests' wails and that of their own, they just followed along with the customs of the funeral.

In particular, the Sangju (the eldest descendant of the deceased who are responsible for funeral proceedings) was devastated, his facial muscles dropped and his mouth silent and solemn. He kept his emotions tightly, not bringing too much onto the table though he did cry at times here and there. It was the day 2 of the funeral and all he could feel were the despair and the loss, the void of losing his mother a day and half after what's supposed to be a championship title he celebrate without limit.

Not the easiest times to be around. Too depressing to be real. Asher thought to himself, as he saw Dr. Heo, the sangju and Myeong-Yoon sitting against the wall.

Asher and his teammates were having particularly hard time being at the funeral. Being a bunch of teenagers with less grief to deal with than many other counterparts, they were having a hard time being present for the funeral of their captain's mother. The news of the car crash that left Mme. Turner was communicated to the team by Dr. Heo, who told them not to relay it to his son to not affect his psyche the day before the match. So, when the Erskine Redmen did win it, it only made sense that the team attend the funeral on the second day in person.

Not the most comfortable place to be at, but a right place to be, Asher looked at the visitors' hall, where there were dozens of guests having their meals and chatting. The thing with Quebecois three-day funerals is that barring the rarely-attended ones, they were usually out to bring people together after years apart, and grief in memory of the deceased resulted in a greenhouse effect of mourning.

Asher felt like he couldn't do much while inside the room- while looking at her picture, he thought briefly of Mme. Turner, a beautiful redhead on her own right, and closed his eyes. He couldn't help but to think about what had passed before everybody's eyes and thought of how things seemed to have just turned against the unlucky when it was not asked.

Sometimes, a sacrifice is all-consuming, I guess. Asher thought to himself, as he went outside to have a meal and talk to the few that still remained. It’s been about four hours since the team arrived to mourn and though most had already left, few players who were particularly close to the Sangju remained.

It was decently packed inside the dining area of the Mourning Room 5 of the Funeral Parlour. There the various subsets of feelings existed, whether it be remembrance, indulgence or the sheer volume of uncontrolled fury at what the world has taken away from them. From the gist of it, Asher had noticed that it was going to take just some time for some to calm down, but for others it was going to require other methods, and just naturally nodded along as he caught a couple of Dr. Heo's college day friends napping on the corner.

Just imagining such incidences as a particularly minor episode that commonly exists as a trope in Quebecois funerals, Asher joined his Crew, les gars, whom were talking while having their supper. There, after sitting down, Asher did his best to talk to his friends and not making himself a fool out of it. Being a bunch of high-energy, medium-sarcasm high school juniors and sophomores weren't so ideal in this setting anyway.

‘God, life’s so volatile and unpredictable these days,’ said Sarah St-Amant. She was very much distraught on the news, with her sister and a couple of friends being Mme. Turner’s students at local dance studio. ‘I still can’t believe that just...happened. All in the while turning a corner in middle of Mount Pleasant….like how?’

‘I wish we all had the answer to that, but not sure we do.’ Bradley Coughlan-Chen responded, keeping himself to minimum of words. Not really part of the stereotypically-athletic crowd (he ran, but stayed out of contact sports), he wasn’t really close to the Heo siblings. Still, the sense of loss for one of their fellow crew was palpable enough.

‘Don’t think too much about it.’ Asher said, trying to stay focused. Unfortunately, a couple of full Makgeolri cups weren’t really helping him with it either. ‘We did our best. Dr. Heo was right in not telling Myeong-Shin the news.’

‘I agree with it too, but man. Dr. Heo is a tough, tough-ass man.’ Samuel responded, still amazed at how a parent would do his best to not tell the news. Being a son of Ngombatanean father and Quebecois mother, he grew up under a faithful Catholic background valuing family connections and found this quite surprising. Of course, this didn’t mean that the Turner-Heo’s were distant from one another- it was the very opposite and they all knew that with how invested the parents were in their two children. ‘Like...how? You gotta have the veins with all the cold and ice in the world to just defer it all. It was lucky his grandparents mentioned that to him, but man….I just don’t know.’

‘No. It was her who seduced his father. My dad used to tell me that she was a bad influence to Dr. Heo whenever she would draw his attention at the cafe his senior year…’

‘The opposite, actually. It was him who made moves on her first, like a fly. Of course, nobody took him seriously enough then.’

‘How dare you say such a libel about her husband?’

‘You don’t know this, Ian. Since when did your dad know their mum?’

As the crew drew a collective sigh, chatted and grabbed a couple of shots of Soju each, they heard a couple of teenagers, both with their school windbreakers, engaging in a shouting contest. The former, a scruffy haired, skinny kid, was Ian Lautner, junior Pater-Dei quarterback widely regarded as the number one football prospect his year, while the other was Theo Pinson, the Sangwon CVI outfielder best known by everybody as the longtime rival of Myeong-Shin since middle school level.

‘Hey hey,’ Asher gestured to them around here. ‘Come have drinks with us and just mourn for the guests.’

‘Alright.’