Greater Díenstad News Feed

by **Eitoan** » Sun Dec 27, 2020 9:53 am

www.News-Herald.et.com

Dashez Runoff Certified
President Increases Lower House Majority; Civic Platform Gains

The remaining 75 Dashez seats have produced a bigger majority for President Shrdlu’s Free Democrats in the incoming lower house, and strengthened the conservative Civic Platform at the expense of the left and the National Democrats. Final results of last week’s election have been certified by the Office of the Elections Magistrate as follows:

Communist (Co) 22
Socialist (SP) 53
Free Democratic (FDP) 239
Civic Platform (Ci) 77
National Democrat (NDP) 18

The Communists fell from 28 seats to 22, losing several key districts in Kelso and Berwyn to Free Democrat and Socialist challengers. Pundits blame the far-left losses on the continued militancy of Communist candidates on blue collar oriented issues in changing districts, where voters are more interested in issues put forward favoring small business and social concerns advocated by the Free Democrats and Socialists respectively. The makeup of the new Dashez is seen as a sign that Education Secretary Steven Power’s proposal for secondary education technical training reform will be fast tracked, with the increased centrist and conservative majority in the lower house and strong backing from the tech and manufacturing sectors. The Dashez results will also encourage budget hawks in Vladarsik, finding favor in the financial sector and the National Reserve Bank of Eitoan. President and Speaker of the Dashez James Sandack remarked after the release of the official results “I think we can look forward to a very productive Dashez session. I will be meeting soon with all party leaders to iron out committee assignment, and with the freshman Dashezniks for their orientation.”

Overseas
President Congratualtes Holy Marsh Arch-Bishop

President Shrdlu has conveyed congratualtions to Arch-Bishop Sasha Luboski of Holy Marsh upon her elevation to the office following the Marshite Conclave in Mar’si. He forwarded this message through the Eiotan embassy in Mar’si.

“I speak for the government and the people of Eitoan in congratulating Arch-Bishop Lubosk upon her accession. We look forward to working hand in hand with Holy Marsh in building a brighter future for western Greater Dienstad.”

The office of Arch-Bishop serves a dual religious and political role as head of state in Holy Marsh, and as the leading authority in the Marshite religion. Although the concept of a state religion is incomprehensible to most Eitoans, relations with Holy Marsh are positive and cordial, and the two nations work in close coordination as principal occupying powers in Free Ralkovia. The ambassadorial post in Mar’si, a high visibility and high prestige assignment is likely to become open as experts at the Department of Foreign Affairs evaluate what changes Luboski’s elevation to Arch-Bishop mean for Marshite foreign and trade policy. It is believed that her support of the Progressive faction in Holy Marsh will present no obstacle to relations between the two nations.

Proyekt Liberty Consortium Seeks Kashgar Reconcilliation

Following the recall of Kashgari Ambassador Khassan Mayrbekov from Vladarsik the Eitoan consortium of telecoms and media companies guiding participation in the multinational effort has sought to smooth the relationship between The Golden Throne and the Kashgari government. Speaking from his headquarters, Eitoan Central Business Services Chief Executive Officer Dan Basden said "We are hopeful that there can be constructive discussions between the project directors and representatives of the Kashgari government that lead to a rapid resolution of issues. Having said that, the project team is continuing work in preparation for rollout both in Eitoan and with our foreign partners. All domestic regulations regarding Proyekt Liberty have long since cleared and there is no pending legal action on the horizon that could stall the schedule.

Of course we believe that Proyekt Liberty will be of great benefit to the poorer regions of Greater Dienstad, and see this as opening up vital new markets both on continent and elsewere. And I have confidence that the main drivers of the project in Fedala will be able to convince the Kashgari government of the commercial benefits of opening up it's cyberspace.

If there are modifications to content specifications as the result of any agreement I anticipate they will be incorporated as project standards and will be integrated seamlessly as we move forward."

National Reserve Bank of Eitoan Updates Ralk Northern Mountain Alliance Exchange Rate

In a move designed to stimulate local manufacturing in the Ralkovian Northern Mountain Alliance the National Reserve Bank of Eitoan has increased the exchange rate of the local currency, the Mountain Alliance Gold Standard to 4.25 from 4.11 to the Quada. The move falls into line with requests from Foreign Affairs to apply measures easing recovery in the remote remnant territory. The impact on exports is expected to be nugatory, while encouraging outsourcing of Eitoan basic manufacturing and consumer goods production to Northern Mountain Alliance territory for items popular in Federal Ralkovia. The Northern Mountain Alliance, governed by dukes defecting from the Raskov cause early in the Marshite invasion has been recognized as the de-facto authority in it's region and has been spared much of the destruction that befell the rest of Ralkovia during the war. Since the establishment of Federal Ralkovia Eitoan policy has been to encourage an ultimate reunification of the two territories under Federal law, but Eitoan maintains a separate diplomatic presence in the Northern Mountain Alliance as do the other occupying powers. The defection early in the war was recognized and the territory has not been held liable for the crimes of the Raskov Dynasty or the succeeding Regime.

by **Solisian Union** » Sun Dec 27, 2020 12:22 pm

Violent Riot in Robredarcas

Robredarcas, Malasala- Violence broke out at a protest late in the night in front of the precinct where officers Herman Guttierez and Esmeralda Sargasa are holed up. While protests throughout the day remained peaceful if passionate, riot police and protestors clashed when Molotov cocktails were thrown in the direction of the building. What followed was a near successful storming of the precinct, where the assembled masses broke into the building and even claim parts of the first floor. This was followed by a riot police led counter-attack aided by reinforcements, which pushed the rioters back out. The vicious melee has resulted in over eight dozen injuries and four deaths, including one officer, and the declaration of martial law in the city by Mayor Escalera. However, the El Guaban Canton leadership has vetoed the declaration, saying that they will not summon Cantonese Guard to solve the problems 'caused by the city's inability to police properly'.

Officers Guttierez and Sargasa are accused by many of murdering Christine and Samuel Salazar over the use of an illegal firework, another in a long line of policing issues plaguing the Robredarcas Police Department, Malasala Provincial Police, and many other cities, cantons, and provinces of Solisia. It has attracted the attention of many at the national level. President Atalaya Rivas, who was on a flight to Sagaró to attend her official nomination, put out a statement decrying the 'lack of professionalism and excess of murderous intent existent in too many who take an oath to uphold our laws. This was an act of murder and officers Guttierez and Sargasa should be held accountable'. Aurania Salazar of the Azen Traditionalist Party rebuked this statement, saying that 'while this singular act was clearly one of wanton violence and extreme malice, the policing network set up by our forebearers protected us for generations. The fault does not lie with 'too many', but rather the despicable few.'

As of this moment, the Robredarcas Police Department has called in all active members, while Mayor Escalera is expected to plead the case for Martial law to El Guaban Canton officials. Meanwhile, political experts state that this act may prove a tipping point in the long-running issue of Solisian policing and expect it to play a major part in the political campaign season. It is expected that multiple parties will put forward proposals to solve this simmering issue.

by **-Itailia-** » Sun Dec 27, 2020 3:35 pm

Lata Heavy Industries announces establishment of regular cargo lines to CCA colonies
The routes will go to Morridane colonies of Gilbert and Adelaide, in an attempt to replace the services previously rendered by Spás Lingus
Gnaeus Tanicius Vopiscus (@Gnaeus Tanicius Vopiscus)(TH)
^{Evening Star 27, 3E10 1:00 PM | Ebonaervon, Aman}

Ebonaervon, Itailia(Herald) — Late this morning Diana Corvius, the President of Lata Heavy Industries, announced that her company would begin operating regular cargo routes to the CCA colonies of Gilbert and Adelaide, in what is surely an attempt to cultivate profit and growth in the absence of the regular routes previously maintained by Spás Lingus, a Morridane company that filed for insolvency last week.

Lata's presence on the civilian market is relatively new, and unprecedented. Civilian space and aerospace companies were previously non-existent within the Empire unless there were a small time operation in one of the western provinces dedicated to surviving solely off of Legion contracts. However the massive gains made by the various space agencies of the Imperial government and the acquisition of Tier I membership within the CCA has enabled a whole new market to appear, and slowly civilian companies have begun emerging specifically bolstered when the BOO (Bureau of Orbital Operations) announced that they would convert Kronos Station into use as a civilian hub; Kronos was previously the largest remaining station operated by the DSOA as Imperia I and Pericoa were both destroyed years ago in the Kessler Syndrome events, but with the completion of Gaza Port earlier this fall the DSOA has a new orbital headquarters, and Kronos has become a beacon for civilian traffic. Lata was among the first, and now certainly among the largest of these kinds of companies to operate; most of it's corporate ventures prior to today's announcement has been the establishment of infrastructure and the completion of their three large vessels, the Rufus Erebus, Borealis, and Cicero the latest which is currently completing it's final test runs. Most of Lata's company profit has come from cargo contracts from DSOA to move supplies between the lunar bases and outposts they maintain, as well as helping deliver supplies to their Martian expedition.

President Corvius was clear that the routes would begin running with first launch on the first day of the new year, and in the mean time that company representatives would reach out through ASF and Imperial government intermediaries to contact the CCA colonies to get a clearer picture of needed supplies, and expected demand. Anticipation is that if the first few runs prove profitable, Lata may try and swoop in at the insolvency hearings and pick up former Spás Lingus vessels, if only to quickly expand their total tonnage capacity.

Gnaeus Tanicus Vopiscus contributed to this article.

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by **Holy Marsh** » Mon Dec 28, 2020 12:10 am

The Arch-Bishop Recieves Warmly the Congratulations of the Region

Mar'si, Holy Marsh- The Arch-Bishop received jovially the congratulations from her sisters in islands of AHSCA, a warm ally that Luboski has always had a great interest in. Marshites have often come to the defense of these islands and Luboski herself visited the chain multiple times as head of the GDS. She has always categorized the islands as a Class A Friend of the Commune, and has placed a special emphasis on AHSCA when allocating international goods from GDS overstocks as well as overseeing an exacting program of distribution to ensure as many could be helped as possible. "They are a people that understand most acutely that community and simplicity of morality are the cornerstones of any real development that matters, the development of the eternal soul. They are blessed in ways that the great industrial powers could never be. They are a beacon, a joy, and an ally, and we are always pleased to stand by them."

It is expected that Arch-Bishop Luboski, who has several volumes of Madokami text, will try to push for the Madokami faith to be declared a sister faith inside of the Theocracy.

Of course, the warm congratulations given by the Solisians, a member of the Romani-Mar'si Union, was expected but still wonderful to hear. The Arch-Bishop thinks highly of the future of the Solisian Union and desires a closer working relationship between the two member-states. While this holds true of all other member-states of the RMU, the Arch-Bishop is believed to have a special affinity for the more socialist-minded (and thus closer to Commune Shrine beliefs) Solisia. The Arch-Bishop is likely to visit the Solisian Union soon, one of several she will likely visit soon, and probably the first. She and President Rivas are rumored to share a good friendship based off of her work expanding the GDS' welfare agenda in Solisia, a factor which may have played into the growth of the Solisian Socialist Party and the rise of President Rivas.

How this will change the negotiations over the Mushroom Islands is unknown.

Other nations also gave their congratulations, even other major powers. Notable among them was the Golden Throne. The relationship between the Sona Emperor and the Arch-Bishop is different every time, often distant, but the congratulatory message received by Luboski from Fedor is clearly a sign of the two powers' growing ties of friendship. The Theocracy tends to be very inward thinking and rarely has had a negative view of the Golden Throne, yet that same insular nature has for the majority of its lifespan meant that the Theocracy had only the most distant of relations with a relative neighbor. However, the end of active combat on the continent and the more active role that the Theocracy has been playing in the region has sparked greater contact with the Golden Throne. While many aspects of the two societies conflict in some manner, the Theocracy has usually held a high opinion of the Golden Throne and the Sona Emperor. With the two nations being allies in agenda on many current issues it is expected that the Arch-Bishop Luboski will endeabor to increase the bonds tha have been forged, most recently by Sister Cassandra Katalán.

She has said she intends to meet with Fedor to discuss these and other developments soon.

Marshite Foreign Explanatory Theologian Responds to Concerns

A Thought Piece by Dr. Alicia Corvia from the Free University of the Khanates

There has been a great deal of speculation regarding the economic agenda of the Arch-Bishop. As the central, dominant figure in the Church, the Arch-Bishop has enormous control overall policy decisions. While she cannot force members of a Shrine to adopt policies that are discordant with their Shrine beliefs and the Cardinal Council may counter an Arch-Bishop's decree at a 3/4 vote or (at the cost of their own positions) even remove the Arch-Bishop, she otherwise has total power to do as she sees fit. This has led to speculation that the Theocracy may become a command economy, a communist country, or something similar.

Of course, under most analysis, it is important to understand that the Theocracy has been a command economy for well over a thousand years. Through the Goods Distribution Service- the service that provides goods, housing, and jobs, as well as ensures that necessary materials from war-related industries are used by another division of the Theocracy. This has meant that for most Marshites the GDS has had control over all major aspects of their material needs and capabilities from birth and that the Marshite economy has been dictated in its near entirety by the GDS and its sister branches, which all still operate under the laws established in the Long War.

Which begs the question: If the Theocracy is already a command economy, then what is different? The answer lies in the expansiveness and enforcement of the GDS' reach. The GDS has over the centuries developed the view that the majority of industries in a nation in a state of total war fall under the war industries label, and has consistently sought to bring them under its heel. Only a few industries have avoided this label and fewer still have had this label applied and been able to functionally resist state control. Arch-Bishop Luboski is known to have a particularly expansive view and as Arch-Bishop will have enforcement powers in far greater excess than she did previously. It is expected that given time those industries that are not currently under total state control will fall under its umbrella, leaving little to no room for private enterprise.

Private enterprise in the Theocracy is legal, but not entirely too common. Most Marshites do not have the capital necessary to establish businesses, while military service and working in industries important to the survival of the Church are considered socially desirable and religiously vital. However, such businesses do exist and do so with the active support of local Shrines, who will financially back businesses of its members during lean times. Under Luboski, it is unknown if this will continue to the case. While the Arch-Bishop is a dedicated member of the Commune Shrine she has on more than one occasion said she sees no reason to eliminate private businesses. However, this would not prevent her from placing industries where private businesses is most common- such as the foodservice industry- under state control and/or making competing state options better choices for consumer and worker alike.

All that being said, it is not expected that Luboski will exit any of the current trade agreements that the Theocracy is signed to, such as the Reichsburg Free Trade Agreement, nor would it prevent her from agreeing to other rumored trade deals such as GATA. Previous Marshite administrations have viewed themselves as falling in strict adherence to the terms of such deals, as they follow the laws laid out while conducting international trade- trade managed by, for, and through the Church and its myriad of sub-departments and organizations.

by **Solisian Union** » Mon Dec 28, 2020 2:19 pm

Martial Law Declared in Robredarcas

Robredarcas, Malasala- As the city of Robredarcas braces for the third day of protests and rioting- which have led to more than two hundred and eighteen injuries and sixteen deaths as well as over five hundred arrests- Mayor Escalera has finally gotten Canton approval for martial law. The El Guaban Guard will be deployed starting tonight and a strict curfew is in effect. Meanwhile, Union officials have assigned a special prosecutor to the case and charges are expected soon. Protests have spread to over seven hundred towns in Solisia as well as several across other Union states, including a Church-sanctioned 'Call for Justice' from Arch-Bishop Luboski. The Arch-Bishop is rumored to have been in contact with President Rivas and on a late-afternoon call pledged to follow her lead in solving the 'eternally vile issue of improperly sanctioned and directed brutality'.

The Solisian Union has a long history of problems with its many police forces. For much of its history, the police were often formed from specific ethnic groups or political affiliations and used to keep the 'lines uncrossed'. For much of the Union's history this proved less than troubling, but as ethnic forces collided and became mixed, the proper job of policing became harder to understand. Modern police forces by code serve everyone but deep factionalism and corruption run rampant across many traditional sectors and urban environment. Violence has been commonplace for some time, spurred on by a multiple of things though the recent focus has been on the so-called 'Crime Safe Codes'. These Codes were introduced in the early 1930s, when military forces were pulled from local duties to attend to large international events. Many police forces found themselves overwhelmed by the scale of the ensuing crime wave. Trying to give police confidence that they could do their jobs without worry of blowback while also allowing them the freedom to stop crime without worrying about committing one themselves, many provinces passed variations on the Codes.

Proponents argue that this cuts through red tape and allows police to engage with their work aggressively, saving their lives and the lives of their charges at a greater rate. Critics argue that this law shields violent criminals with a badge from being prosecuted if they can show they were attempting to stop crime- even if the crime itself is minor in comparison.
President Rivas, a long-time enemy of such Codes, is expected to mention them during a televised speech later tonight where she will call for drastic reform.

by **Holy Marsh** » Wed Dec 30, 2020 7:28 pm

A New Marshite Dating Era?

St. Husky, Holy Marsh- In 195 ALW, Arch-Bishop Yursalia declared that the start of the Long War would act as the defining moment of Marshite history as they committed themselves to the destruction of the Cult and worldly evils. That year, which was then known as 1010 Unification at the time, was renamed near immediately to 195 ALW and it has remained so. Now, in the year 2136 ALW, there is a renewed discussion as the new year approaches that it is time for a new dating age to begin.

Dating systems in the Theocracy have a long and at times confusing history, shaped in part by the fact that every Shrine is allowed to use their own internal dating system. The Ponyist Shrine, for example, has the current year listed as 84 AA, or Alicorn Ascension, denoting the year that the Ponyist Shrine was accepted as an official Shrine. It also records it as being the year 1760 PS, or Pony Sapience, establishing when the first Equestrians were discovered with the mind for civilization. Such multiple dating systems and history tools are common in the Shrines but can be confusing for some.
Hence, most official documents and all incidents of the dating scale used in public communications use ALW and BLW, After Long War and Before Long War. The current year is 2135 ALW, and BLW includes 3617 years of recorded history. Together, this makes up the Church's Internal Calendar, 5752 Marsh. Internally, the BLW is broken up into the eras of Pushanian with the denotation of P (3617 BLW-2150 BLW), City-States known as CS (2149 BLW-816 BLW), and Unification known as U (815 BLW- 195 ALW). With all of these periods and more with the Shrines, it is little wonder that ALW and BLW are used near-universally. (LW is often used as shorthand for ALW in some publications and systems, though they mean the same)

For nearly thirty years however a strong but growing chorus of voices has called for the page to be turned. With the Long War over, many argue that orienting Marshite dating around it seems backward thinking, though they then split into two camps. Another group claims that the Long War is not over or even if it is the dating system accurately reflects the Marshite reorientation that still exists.

Among those calling for a change there exists two separate ideas of what to declare year zero. The first is the year immediately after the destruction of the Lardite State and the expulsion of the Cult from the continent. This is marked in most accords as the end of the Long War- or at least, the victory of Marshism over the Cult. Another wishes to use the Shift, an event known and accepted as divine, and whose implications and developments are still unfolding in dramatic ways. This would also mark a greater appreciation of Marshites outside the Theocracy, whose Shift-related impacts have led to a vast growth in Marshism's influence and presence in the region.

It is unknown just where Arch-Bishop Luboski lies, though there is a strong belief that she wishes to create a new dating era. Such a move was ruthlessly blocked under Lainika who was a firm and fervent believer that the Long War was eternal and that the dating system needed to change. Whether this becomes a topic of importance for the new Arch-Bishop is unknown as she heads into the International New Year.

by **Solisian Union** » Fri Jan 01, 2021 1:09 am

Officers Charged and Arrested; President Rivas Lays Out Agenda for Policing

Robredarcas, Malasala- Officers Herman Gutterez and Esmeralda Sargasa were charged with the murders of Christine and Samuel Salazar four days after the incident caught the attention of the nation. The precinct was approached by El Guaban Guard and flanked by Malasalan Provinvial Police who forced the Robredarcas Police Department to stand down before entering and arresting the two charged with murder and a dozen other officers and officials for hindering earlier attempts. They were led out in front of a cheering crowd while back in La Victoria there was a great deal of discussion regarding the policy proposals put forward by President Rivas last night.

In an address televised to the entire Solisian Union, President Rivas first called for everyone to pray with the Salazars foremost in their thoughts. She then detailed the 'sordid history of policing both national and local', and the many ways it had been unfair to the people of Solisia. She called for officials to be sacked up and down the policing network of Solisia who had aided, abetted, or supported such incidents. She then detailed a legislative bill aimed at vast police reform, the destruction of the old networks of police, universal body cameras, the abolition of the old Codes where they still apply, the full application of the law to those who are corrupt or criminal in their duties, civilian oversight, the disallowing of firearms off-duty, and a stricter screening process. She also called for a better training program for police and an emphasis on education, moral and ethical instruction included to emphasis the Solisian Union and the rights of all sapient life under its banner. There are indications she plans to bring a similar proposal to the Romani-Mar'si Union at large.

Such proposals have a wide degree of support from those on the left and have enjoyed increasing support in the center. With the latest round of incidents many on the right are supporting at least some parts of it. Whether that will translate to voting power from the people or elected officials remains to be seen. What is known is that Rivas enjoys the support of powerful figures from outside the nation, not the least of which is Arch-Bishop Luboski. In a short statement she said she supports President Rivas and calls for the 'destruction and casting down of the corrupt, the bestial, and the weak alike who prey upon their people'.

by **Morrdh** » Fri Jan 01, 2021 9:04 pm

Norgorka Hosts Major Exercise

Tuktar.- The Norgorkan Ministry of Defence has announced that a large-scale military exercise will be taking place in the Central Dienstad country.

It is understood that the exercise, name RED WOLF, will be the biggest training exercise conducted by the Norgorkan Defence Forces since they were form. The all-arms exercise will involve elements from across the NDF, supported by some Commonwealth forces, to help assess Norgorka's military readiness. One area of focus is the NDF's ability to respond to an attack and mobilization of reserve forces in addition to it's ability to conduct division level operations.

Word of Exercise RED WOLF seems a little out of the blue, though the Norgorkan MoD states that planning for it has been in the works for some time. It was also stated that some elements of the planning had to be altered in light of recent regional events. There are some that speculate that, with the current fighting in Krasnova, that the exercise is intended as a show of strength. Much of Norgorka's military planning revolves around the threat of a possible Ordenite invasion, so it is understandable that the small country wanting to have as much of a deterrence as possible.

by **The Macabees** » Sat Jan 02, 2021 12:09 pm

HOLY PANOOLY BEGINS TRANSITION TO STATUS AS IMPERIAL TERRITORY

After years of terrorism and following the death of Satrap Joao Bagamba, Holy Panooly's congress unanimously ratified the Treaty of Fedoroville, transforming the country's status
from satrapy to territory of the Golden Throne's imperial federation. The new territory's capital will be at the newly rebuilt city
of Delapesca, renamed to Fedoroville in honor of His Imperial Majesty, who contributed most of the funds
towards the city's reconstruction after the civil war — including the new Fedoroville Race Circuit.

PANOOLY CITY — Holy Panooly is a story of tragedy. Ruled for decades by the right-wing dictator Dominic Templeton, since his death the country has known little more than civil war. Four years ago, the private military contractor Tarn Defense Solutions invaded and occupied the Panooly-half of the isthmus that connects them to Adaptes Astrates. They advanced as far as Guamlumpeiron and, in the process, assassinated Templeton in an illegal effort to destabilize the Panooly military. The arrest of TDS' top management did not stop the occupation of the Jumanota isthmus, placing it under the effective control of TDS' patron, Navitek, a company dedicated to the ambitious construction of a canal across the isthmus large enough to pass through an imperial fleet. If the assassination of Templeton wasn't sufficient damage, Navitek cooperated with the Fourth Reich and condemned southern Holy Panooly to a year-long occupation under the rule of a Nazi puppet state. But even since the ejection of the Fourth Reich and Holy Panooly's reunification under imperial oversight, racial violence and terrorism continue to thrive, poverty and death continue to reign. With the death of Joao Bagamba this year, as a result of the B1 strain of the KN-755, the post-Templeton democracy that promised to deliver indigenous Panooly from colonial tyranny is losing faith. As the country is depleted of its people, it sees further integration into the empire as the primary route toward greater stability.

The recent history of Holy Panooly must be understood as nothing other than a holocaust. Five years ago, its population stood at just over 680 million, 580 of which was indigenous and the remainder what the former called 'whities' — descendants of the colonists which conquered and ruled Holy Panooly until the death of Templeton. By the end of the year after, 224 million indigenous Panooly lay dead either from the KN-755 virus or during the civil war. 3.5 million North Panooly indigenous died during the Panooly Reunification War, by which end 45 million more had died in Ordenite labor and death camps organized in South Panooly. Of the original population, almost one in two indigenous Panooly died over a two-year period. It is a ghastly toll, an epic failure painted by state collapse and an unrepenting environment of disease and violence.

During the same two-year period, over 22 million whites have left the country. Most have gone to Theohuanacu's Zeeland Prefecture, Guffingford, or the provinces, along with a sizeable migration to the Ordenite Reich. Despite the "white flight," as a share of the total population 'whities' increased from 15% to 21%. White resistance against a democratic government with an indigenous majority has been particularly vicious. Waging an incessant and gruesome war of terror against the indigenous population, the Hunkara Hunters have found a sympathetic base within the white-dominated southern now-Prefecture of Kolampo.

Holy Panooly's Congress was divided, but after alterations to the treaty the decision represents desperation wrought from the disasters that have befallen the nation. It also reflects the new reality of a more thoroughly involved Imperial Bureaucracy. With troops returning from Gholgoth and the security needs of the country, the imperial garrison is ballooning in size to 45 million soldiers, prompted by the war in Krasnova and a desire to replenish the defenses of the empire. Furthermore, a significant amount of the land bequeathed to the Imperial Bureaucracy as a result of the previous treaty to ratify satrapical status is being used to settle more than 200 million veterans of the war against the Scandinvan Empire. As the province quickly "Macabéanizes," its transition to territorial status is perhaps a natural one.

The size of the imperial garrison speaks to more than the internal security needs of Holy Panooly, as aforementioned. The country represents an important middle-ground between Theohuanacu and the southeasternmost possession of the empire, Indras. Furthermore, the newly constructed canal through Jumanota gives the area additional strategic importance. The garrison's size reflects a value outside of the state's own calculus and colors the transition with a strong tint of annexation and assimilation. The resettling of veterans, many of whom are given imperial citizenship upon retirement, makes it an imperial dye.

Widesweeping changes to the political organization of the country have been decreed, including the official legal incorporation of Jumanota into the territory. Sources from within the Imperial Bureaucracy claim that Navitek was warned years in advance and was allowed to profit from the sale of property titles to the lands of Jumanota, as well as tax revenues. The area will now be more fully integrated under imperial law, and its governance will return to the Panooly capital. The capital is moved to Fedoroville, formerly known as Delapesca. It suffered grievious destruction during the civil war as a result of fighting and a great fire that burned most of its historic core and harbor area. Reconstructed in the grand imperial style, funded by imperial coffers, it is a symbol of the empire and its peace. Twenty million veterans alone will be settled within the peninsula on which Fedoroville stands on, registered to the city. A network of bases and other military installations have fueled the growth of towns and cities, as people flock to them in search of work. Panooly City is now prefectural capital of Panooland, joining Jumanota as the first and second prefecture of the new territorial organization.

The old south white-dominated region has been maintained as the Prefecture of Domitia, the name in honor of Dominic Templeton. Controversial, the allowance was made in the treaty in exchange for tax rate adjustments on the wealthy. Furthermore, and even more controversially, Domitia sits outside the legal jurisdiction of Panooly Congress and becomes a self-legislating entity. As for the Hakara Hunters, outlawed throughout the territory — including Domitia —, unofficially the southern whites are now under pressure to suppress their insurgency. Domitia will hold its capital at Qadesh, which served as capital of the Ordenite South Panooly vassal state.

Joining Domitia and Jumanota as prefectures are Panooly, capital at Panooly City, and Ahafo-Volta, capital at Kumyani. Fedoroville will be administered by a municipal legislature, in conjunction with the Imperial Governor of Theohuanacu.

Given the legacy of the Templeton regime and the suffering that the indigenous have suffered, this political reorganization may leave much to be desired for. But, it's a reorganization that comes with a slew of bureaucratic transformations and an immediate anti-corruption program, promising more efficient and responsive governance. And the concession to Domitia is only a grand bargain that shows promise in finally putting to rest the violence that has cost the country 40–50% of its population.

Imperial capital has done its best to pave over the old, tattered legacy of Holy Panooly. The empire, as elsewhere, has shown an unrelenting commitment to institutionalizing its image in the shape of grand new boulevards, the rebuilding of historic buildings with additions in the imperial-style, and the erection of triumphal arches to commemorate the victories won during the War of Panooly Reunification. Fedoroville is perhaps the greatest manifestation of this investment, with its new race circuit built into a city of marble, glass, and glamor. But it has extended almost everywhere else, including Panooly City and the cities of Domitia. Even Guamlumpeiron is seeing a "recovery," albeit in a morbid sort of way. The cadaver of the city, eviscerated by nuclear attack as it was being overrun by the lunatic infected, is being demolished and prepared for new radiation control measures.

While the Imperial Bureaucracy, and even His Imperial Majesty Fedor I, contribute significant funds in the hundreds of billions, for various programs in Holy Panooly, a significant amount of the capital flow is private. The growing military garrison brings with it a spending power that exceeds what Holy Panooly had even before its population loss. Tens of millions of soldiers and veterans, hundreds of millions even, bring with them military salaries and retirement payouts. Financial capital has flowed into the country from the provinces, Guffingford, and northeastern Theohuanacu, as well as internationally, as consumer demand grows. Much of this new economy is service-oriented and clearly revolves around the bases. However, work tends to pay well these days. The massive depopulation has made labor scarcer than it was, raising real wages. What these higher wages have discouraged, however, is manufacturing labor, as those jobs are almost entirely automated. The empire has therefore changed the face of the country to an extent that makes it unrecognizable to its not-so-distant past. And despite big changes, support for the empire grows as stability returns.

Not all Panoolies support the transition. Many still resent the imposition of the satrapy, Joao Bagamba or not. But, after almost 300 million deaths, the will to resist has understandably whittled away. Most simply seek improvement, a return to a peace that has for so many recent years seemed impossible to a war-torn nation. The empire, and its 45 million person garrison, have proven eager to impose a more lasting peace. In a way, the country has perhaps been worn down to this point.

Although its territorial status comes with the allowance of recruitment into the Ejermacht regulares, or the combat forces of the imperial ground army, Holy Panooly is not expected to be a fertile recruiting ground. Steep depopulation has created a need to conserve whatever population the territory has, especially its young men and women of working age. Birth rates have only just begun to increase again, and are expected to continue to grow over the next decade.

The territory's first imperial governor, replacing the satrap as the head of state, is the former kríerlord Angiko Bas. Bas had spent the last few years in Holy Panooly, working with the late Satrap Bagamba to combat the Hakara Hunter insurgency and restabilize the Panooly economy. Considered the best man for the job, Bas thus leaves the Kríerlord Kuncil for the gubernatorial promotion. Governors can hold the position for life, and can be removed and appointed at imperial discretion. Bas will take up residence at the Kaneayia Palace, in Fedoroville, although governers are expected to tour their territories at least once every five years and residential palaces for the governor exist in every major city. Most of these are still under construction, but their construction is a strong symbol of the change that comes with the transition to territorial status and comes paired with the overall beautification of most cities' administrative centers.

The transition also gives Holy Panooly representation within the Senatorial Government, within the Congress of Kingdoms. The lower house's body will be expanded to 425 seats to accommodate 25 new Panooly congresspeople who will stand for election by the end of the present year. As such, a Panooly will be able to stand for election as Kríeror — executive of the Congress of Kingdoms — for the first time in history.

Holy Panooly becomes the Golden Throne's thirteenth territory, or aukitat, following Zarbia and Nuevo León (Zarbian Territories), Levante, Belmonte, and Viñera (Havenic Territories), Monzarc, Cerfonlande, Guffingford, and Questeria (Guffingfordi Territories), Indras, Theohuanacu, and Gerul.

It's a transition that perhaps would not have been made, or at least it would have been made against considerably more resistance, had the Panooly people not been rocked by a series of devastating tragedies that have left the country a hollow shell of its former self. For, as much as imperial rule has brought with it some wealth and the hope for a better future, the transition to territorial status also represents a formalization of annexation — one driven, as we have seen, as much by the realities of geopolitics and war, as by the needs of the Panooly people.

OOC: These events take place after the events in Imperial Konsolidation, an ongoing maintenance thread detailing the progress of imperial rule and oversight within the Golden Throne between roughly 2027–2030 [imperial calendar].

by **The Macabees** » Mon Jan 04, 2021 11:19 am

HURON AUTHORITY LEAVES VALO'KAP CONSORTIUM

A photo of Huron Authority personnel in the Killian Republic and a Huron Authority GLI-23 in the background.

TARN — Valo'Kap Consortium's is a story of corporate hubris. Ours is a world where an entire people can fall under the rule of a corporate board, as was the fate of Jumanota for four years. The Killian Republic, a country that once came to the rescue of a deeply wounded Macabéan Empire mired in civil war and blindsided by a wholesale invasion if its southern provence, was Valo'Kap's victim. It did it through the legalese of contract, steadily increasing the dose and the Killian dependency on their services. They waited for a military coup to show their dedication to Killian liberty and democracy, installing in power the present President Jackson Hamilton via the pressures of monetary incentive and good 'ol fashioned violence. They turned their one and only contract into an infinite resevoir of wealth, flowing into the corporate treasuries of the consortium's constituents: Jeh'Ti, Canus Security, Koman Services, Finkirk, and Huron Authority. Or, so they thought. For a war against the Ordenite Reich, one that they sought, has turned out to be too much to handle for the combined forces of the consortium. Especially so after the Imperial Bureaucracy prohibited the further export of private military personnel, equipment, and munitions to the Killian Republic.

As Valo'Kap's odyssey comes to a disastrous end, its incorporated constituents seek to jump ship before it sinks for good. Huron Authority is the first to do so. The company declared its forfeiture of all corporate shares and assets in exchange for a unilateral severance of legal relations to the consortium. Its personnel on the ground have either been folded under the command of the Golden Throne or Valo'Kap's remaining forces in the Killian state of North Lomec. Its assets, namely an estimated remaining four thousand fighters, are now the property of the Macabéan armed forces.

The defense of the Killian Republic may have gone another way if the forces opposing the Ordenite Reich were truly what it seemed on paper. The consortium had managed to put together quite an army of 2.4 million mercenaries, all paid for by the Killian exchequer. These included tankers driving up-gunned Nakíls, artillery and rocket artillerymen using the latest technology, and other types of specialists that promised the Republic an advanced, self-sufficient, combined-arms force capable of defending it from the depravations of its southern neighbor. The Killian Home Army, or KHA, counted on another half-a-million combat personnel. To these, finally, were added the million or so combat soldiers in the Republic courtesy of the Golden Throne. Perhaps not a force that would be sufficient over the long-run, not without reinforcements, but one capable of grinding an opening enemy offensive to a halt before more soldiers could be brought over.

Getting more fighters is not difficult in Tarn, as long as you have the coin to pay for it. For Valo'Kap, getting the money has always been a question of justifying the expenditure to Killian congress. Even under Hamilton's presidency, funneling ever more money into the consortium's coffers involves the persuasion of the country's legislature to bass the bills. Not always forthcoming, Valo'Kap believed that war with the Reich would create the existential threat necessary to justify ever more military spending. And perhaps things may have gone that way if they had secured the cooperation of the Golden Throne. But, they did not. Instead, the consortium has seen its attempts to reinforce its position in the Republic thwarted by an uncompromising and dutifully enforced imperial ban on the movement of unauthorized private military contractors into the Killian Republic.

Given the ban on the transfer of men and equipment, the losses suffered by Valo'Kap thus far in the war have proven to be crippling. Although details around the battles of Holandale and Jonesburg are difficult to come by so soon after their end, and are inevitably covered in myth — whether propagated by the consortium or by the Reich —, it's understood that the latter has turned out to be decisively debilitating. Current known estimates suggest that Valo'Kap lost over half of its first-rate strength across both battles, but nearly the entirety of their forces around Jonesburg.

We know of the survival of at least 600,000 mercenary soldiers through imperial sources, although even these are ambiguous and not always forthcoming. Sources with the Fuermak have confirmed that about half of Valo'Kap's eastern forces surrendered to Fuermak command in the Republic, afterwhich their equipment was stripped from them and the units' personnel transferred north before extradition to Tarn.

Other murky details of the war that have come down to us include the occupation of Lincoln and Rincon by the Fuermak, and the beginning of combat around the former state and in the southern portions of the state of North Lomec. Valo'Kap remains strong in the west, around the city of Morrisville. Nonetheless, their position in a country that months ago they considered their own playground must be seriously compromised as a result of the casualties suffered so far and the ban on the further inflow of private military contractor forces. Because the losses of Jonesburg and Holandale are now accompanied by the loss of one of the major partners within the consortium's leadership, that of Huron Authority. This is a blow that must almost match that of Jonesburg in magnitude, because it implies the loss of the Valo'Kap Aereal Forces, or VAF, in their entirety.

Indeed, the consortium's strength was found in its composition. Each partner contributes with a specific type of asset class. Huron Authority's responsibility was the air war, toward which they provided the equipment and personnel for a substantial force of 6,000 fighter jets. Canus provides base and civilian security services, and Jeh'Ti and Finkirk jointly account for the bulk of the frontline ground forces. Koman's role was to facilitate the logistics for the entire contract. Koman's role has been made defunct by the imperial ban, of course. Rumors abound that their personnel, as well as that of Canus, are being used to reinforce the frontline. And while Huron Authority is the first to escape the sinking boat, it's expected that Koman and Canus will follow suit.

Of course, Valo'Kap Consortium exists as an entity only in the Killian Republic. Its leadership has either fled Tarn or has already been placed under imperial custody, awaiting trial for orchestrating the corruption of the Killian democratic state. All five companies are nominally independent from Valo'Kap, their only ties being the existing assets in the Republic. Huron is the first to explicitly abandon these assets, therefore ending all tangible relationships with the doomed corporate consortium.

What will happen to the remaining fighter jets left behind by Huron Authority? One would think that perhaps Valo'Kap will assimilate them. But, without the trained pilots to fly them, the jets are worthless for their cause. Instead, the remnants of the VAF — thought to be about 4,000 Lu-45 Hawks — have been appropriated by the Laerihans. The imperial air force has committed to releasing them to the reformed Killian Air Force (KAF) at the end of the current war, as new pilots graduate from the academy and are made ready to fly them. Thus, the once Huron-owned assets will pass on to a regenerated and strengthened Killian armed forces. This, of course, assuming that the current war ends with a situation where the Republic remains intact or, at the very least, still in existence. The program represents not just the formation of the core of the future KAF, but also a significant penalty on Huron for their failed odyssey. Indeed, the material loss of these surviving jets represents over Ŗ60 billion ($120 billion) in expropriated capital. Assets taken over by the Fuermak are also thought to include base infrastructure and related equipment, which is being used directly to support the growing number of Laerihans assets in the country.

No extra-Killian punishment is expected to be exacted on the company. Outside of legal protections afforded by the general laws of commercial incorporation, the Imperial Bureaucracy seeks to avoid dissuading four remaining constituents of Valo'kap to peaceably give up the fight by showing no intent to carry on the fiscal penalties outside of the Republic. While the material loss does represent a hefty price to pay, for Huron Authority it means life as usual. As for their economic survivability in the face of the extensive forced capital write-offs, Huron is already benefiting from other contracts — secured both individually and through a new project, the Lourens Consortium. The bad omen that comes from all of this is that in a world where private military forces are in high demand, even the most expensive of debacles, such as what is unfolding in the Killian Republic, can be sustained. The question that arises is: how long until something like what is occuring in the Republic happens again?

With private forces operating in states like Potthan, rumored to have fought in New Garrack, and after their extensive participation in Krasnova during the previous wars, the age of the private military contractor is far from over. Imperial authorities must learn to impose constraints or, otherwise, suffer the costs of having to clean up the mess created by ambitious privateers seeking to carve out private states of their own to rule. And the private military contractors of Tarn will have to steady themselves for the legislative and military measures taken to place limits on the growing power of the companies that have brought so much wealth, riches, and population to the city.

by **AHSCA** » Tue Jan 05, 2021 11:21 pm

Disorder in the Court?
-A Report from The Hanasaku Press, A Private Independent Newspaper You Can Trust!-

This article first appeared in The Hanasaku Press, which is a privately owned news outlet based from Aurora Island in the UIS. This story has not been independently verified by UNICIM or any Government agency.

by: Fumio Taiya

According the Julian Calendar, the year Twenty-Twenty-One is upon us and with a new year always comes new challenges. According to old Aurora tradition, this is the Sixth Year of Villa, six long years since Duchess Marcella Villa had been coronated as the new Duchess of the United Island States, a nation forged from the fires of war. The Duchess in general has always enjoyed general popularity and relatively high approval among her Officers and certainly among her people but it seems with 2020 and perhaps this year to come, the harmony is starting to wither.

The most recent election is showing a major shift on how people view the future of this country, with the election of a few populist candidates, the campaign by a nationalistic General from Truce a Tribalist from Animalpolis, there's no doubt there's a lot of mixed feeling on how the general mood of this country is right now. While the status quo seems intact with the re-elections of Senators from Corona, Pacifica and Miela respectively, there's no doubt things are changing.

So what does an election have to do with the state of Her Highness' Royal Court of officers? Maybe more than we think. Under Article II of the UIS' Constitution, The Duchess theoretically can be impeached and removed from Office, unusual for a monarchy but the UIS is anything but a usual state. Is there an impeachment storm brewing? Analysits at the Hanasaku Press are split but they have little doubt that among the Duchess Officers, there is a sense not all are happy with her. A Source reported to us that a quiet conversation between the Officer of Foreign Relations, Noir VinoCacao, and Officer for Defense, Kuraĝo had a conversation about this. This comes ahead of a visit to Mervay by Her Majesty and her Foreign Officer to Mervay in the coming month ahead as well as a potential visit from the Newly elected Arch Bishop of Holy Marsh.

Neither the Officers or the General would comment on the matter to us. So what is the source of this discontent? What might be the undoing for the Era of Villa and usher in a new era? Well critics have been citing The Duchess foreign policy of appeasement by any means, including giving up land here and the remote islands to the south of us. Though the islands were uninhabited, largely used for military training or the old fashioned storm spotting, the ease to which Her Highness simply gave the islands away, has put many on edge. Today it is those islands, or a small strip of land for a foreign military base, tomorrow, who knows? Fisherman have begun to feel their livelihood is being jeopardized and people fear a strong military buildup resembles the same conditions that brought the islands to war two decades ago. But assuming there are those among the Duchess' cabinet or those in and out of Congress who do want impeachment, the odds are highly against a successful removal. It would require a unanimous vote in Congress and all states. And Chief Ayla and Premier Biscotti in particular have shown nothing but confidence with the Duchess so getting a vote of affirmative is unlikely.

Even more unlikely, is the idea of a hostile takeover, a military instigated coup de ta by military and members of the Cabinet which would truly end in utter chaos and an outright collapse of the UIS as we know it. It seems rather people are hoping for a soft coup, the kind of coup proposed by General Edvard Straum who unsuccessful sought a seat in Congress, weakening public confidence in the Duchess to the point States may have no choice but to consider impeachment. If a military coup could happen in Stillestando to dismantle it's short lived attempt at democracy, nothing is to say that the other states couldn't go the same way years down the road and that especially goes for the Doggy Princess of Animalpolis.

by **Free Kolechia** » Sat Jan 09, 2021 8:56 am

Voice of Kashgar
Republic of Kolechia

Ambassadors Meeting in Kashgar Concludes

A high-level meeting between the President and several Ambassadors has concluded after several days. President Safadi met with Said Sadulayev, Khassan Mayrbekov, and Ayza Kadieva. It is speculated that they met to discuss recent events over "Proyekt Liberty", and a future plan. Both the Golden Throne, and Eitoan have both made stated that while the project won't stop, they wish for positive relations to continue. They also requested that our Ambassadors stationed in their country return, it seems then at least, the government has agreed to that much. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a small statement saying that the meeting had ended, and that the President had a constructive discussion. The Ambassadors all shared similar statements and announced their departure in the next few days via social media.

What has not been exactly revealed however, is whether the relationship between Kolechia and the rest of the region (or these nations) will continue as it has, or if we will see some kind of change. Regardless, it appears that free internet will be offered to Kolechian citizens, whether or not they have internet to begin with, and it will come with information and perspective from across the region. This will undoubtedly force domestic news and the government itself to make sure it can provide the facts, regardless of what the facts are, to the people. In a nation that both accuracy, and objectivity in news is a cornerstone, this new added pressure will now certainly arrive in the near future. It seems that for once in a long time, something beyond our borders and Bazh's shores has impacted our land.

by **Cartoonia** » Sat Jan 09, 2021 11:54 am

It seems that there has been confusion in the government, as Chancellor Nigel Uno has come out saying that the action to shut down Ooarai Academy was not authorized through either him or the Supreme Leader. A couple of weeks ago, the Secretary of Education Peter Charles Patterson shut down Ooarai Academy because of the budget situation. However, it was revealed that Chancellor Nigel Uno had other plans to close down other schools but NOT Ooarai which ranks on top of academic success, as well as a rising force in the sport of tankery. The government of course assumes that this was a plan by the Secretary of Education to shut down the sport of tankery all over Cartoonian schools. He has stated several times he loathes tankery. But no one actually would think that he would go attack schools that supported the sport. “Tankery needs to be eradicated from the earth as much as we can. I was not going to stop with Cartoonia. I will make sure that these rules are enforced throughout the world” said PC Pattersion. After the week long Fall recess that Cartoon House takes every year, outrage for Chancellor Uno to do something arose when social media shared their rage when Patterson shared his views and “victory” of this debacle. As of December 2020, Chancellor Uno dismissed PC Patterson following a thorough investigation by Cartoon House. He is now a regular member of Cartoon House for the Jonestown Feminist Party.

As for the vacant spot of Secretary of Education, a week after the dismissal, Chancellor Uno appointed a new candidate for the office. And after the winter recess of Cartoon House, she is now sworn into the office. Mrs. Marge Simpson is now the new Secretary of Education. She is a housewife from the city of Springfield and is a well respected mother in the town. She has no previous experience in public office, but has previously worked as a police officer and a teacher at the local elementary school. “As a proud mother, I believe that I know what is right for children and students of all ages” she states in a press conference after her swearing in ceremony. “As long as any activity helps in the civic participation and health of our nation, then that is something I wish to boolster”. Here is to looking forward of what Mrs. Simpson has instore for Cartoonia’s students!
-Lucy Heartfilia, Head-Journalist for The Gallagher Herald

by **Holy Marsh** » Sun Jan 10, 2021 3:18 am

Troubles in the Sea of Faith

Druscan, Tarvencore- In an alarming statement, the United Marshite Communities of the Sea of Faith have asked for aid from the Theocracy to deal with a series of emerging crisises on the islands that inhabit the Sea of Faith, the Marshite name for the waters off its eastern coast. The UMCSF represents a large coalition of Marshite settlements on three primary islands- Sasharlie near the People's Territory of Motoka, Tarvencore near the Stevidian Outpost, and the island of Ixan- that exist outside of Theocratic influence but nonetheless have supported it for eons. While never officially settled, these islands each host millions of Marshites who left the Theocracy over the ages for one cause or another. While tensions existed at times, there has been friendship and cooperation between the Theocracy and these Marshites for hundreds of years.

Despite this, they have lived apart and a multitude of incidents have started to call into question whether Theocratic intervention is necessary. In Sasharlie, a growing terrorist movement has threatened the stability of the many Marshite villages on the island, as well as a multitude of other peoples. The Motokan National Revolutionary Alliance (MNRA) began during the assimilation of Motoka into the People's United Federation, opposing the association and envelopment of Motokatan interests. While a number of cells still exist on the mainland and are theorized to be behind a series of small-scale attacks, it is on Shesarlie that their main power exists. Taking advantage of the island's lack of any central government, they have turned to extortion, crime, and illegal manufacturing of materials (weaponry and drugs includes) to support their right to nationhood. In recent weeks, reports of skirmishes between local militia forces and MRNA cells have started to filter in, culminating in a bold assault on a Marshite village center in the town of Duscun.The UMCSF reported heavy losses and a great deal of civilian casualties in its plea for aid.

Ixan is another matter entirely. It is home, in theory, to the government of Greater Ishtar, an Islamic Sultanate with which the Theocracy has shared friendly relations with in the past. However, decades of anarchic agendas and wasteful spending by the Ishtar Sultanate has resulted in the fertile island undergoing a growing famine and factionlization of the government. The Sultana of Ishtar, Ameera Sakalaha, recently took control over the family and leads the slowly shattering Sakalaha dynasty against more than two dozen political and revolutionary organizations. While open bloodshed has not broken out, the UMCSF has detailed the upcoming catastrophe that the combination of the ongoing famine and possible civil war would entail.

Tarvencore faces less pressure. While the furthest away of the islands it has often been the most loyal to the Theocracy and of the three islands provided the highest volunteer rate for the Long War. To this day the capital of Tarvencore, Brokanakus, is the most heavily populated city in the Sea of Faith and the island is home to the only island with a standing defense force that answers primarily to Marshite authority. It is the headquarters of the UMCSF and has openly proposed being taken in as part of the Theocracy multiple times. The Theocracy, who has only ever colonized a single non-holy land landmass once, has often refused. However, a series of tsunamis and earthquakes has threatened Tarvencore's stability and the spectre of mass distress for Marshites in the region may be enough to force the Theocracy to act.

The Arch-Bishop, who is preparing for a region-wide tour, has received this message and pledged a response and one that will 'settle these matters with permanence in the name of our communities and faith'.

by **Holy Marsh** » Wed Jan 13, 2021 9:08 pm

MORDORVIAN UNREST CONTINUES

Grehovgorod- MHK officials have stated that they will not tolerate the situation in Mordovia, a fellow Khanate, getting any more dangerous along the heavily patrolled border zone. This comes after a wave of attacks by factions inside the Mordorvian Warlord Zone (MWZ), with the ultra-nationalist Mordovian Khaganate Authority (MKA) gaining ground against the largest opposition group, the Alliance for a Democratic Khanate (ADK). While most of the fighting took place in the de-facto capital and largest port city of Asmurath, flare-ups along the border zone have attracted the attention of the Marshite Khanate and PUF alike.

The MKA and ADK are just two of the many factions in the former Khanate of Mordovia, a Hijra Accord signee and one of the seven Khanates designated by MHK officials as vital to security. The Marshite government has for some time used bribes and deals on many of the smaller factions to ensure peace along the border, and is rumored to be one of the main benefactors behind the ADK. Many Mordorvian generals and indeed the populace have strong ties with the MHK, as it was main lender and supplier to its government near the end of its stable life and acted as an easy entry point for refuge. Many factions, including the MKA however, blame the Marshites and Hijra in general for the fate of the Khaganate. While it lacks the strength to strike at the MHK itself, there are rumors that it is turning to terrorism and that its reach may spread far enough to strike targets inside of the safer, more prosperous khanate.

The End of the Line for Regent Applejack?

Cloppenhagen- Rumors swirl that Regent Applejack may not seek re-election for her tenth term. If true, it would pave the way for a new leader of Akila for the first time in her history since it was given independence in 2008. While this is not the first time such a rumor has gained traction, recent comments from the Iron Mare of Cloppenhagen suggest some reticence about continuing her political career for much longer.

Having been given the title by the last Theocratic Governor of Akila, Regent Applejack's career started without much fanfare and even some derision. Her decisive leadership during the War of National Survival against the Empire of Celestial Harmony however during her second term, including her refusal to vacate her residence and the seat of government even as artilley pounded it for months, earned her fame and adoration. She emerged from the war stronger than she had entered it and as been lauded for her many successful rebuilding and economic intiative campaigns since. She remains wildly popular, with her job approval rating having not dropped below 75% since her first term and her personal approval ratings even greater. So highly is she respected within the Romani-Mar'si Union that she was even put forward as a candidate for Arch-Bishop.

Her party, the Harmonist Ponyist Part of Akila (HPA), maintained an iron grip on national politics for some time. However, the last decade has seen not only the rise of more substantial opposition parties such as the Akilan Nationalist Party (ANP) and the Akilan People's Party (APP) as well as fringe-yet-growing Unionist Alliance (UA) and Royalist Concord (RC), but the HPA itself has undergone a series of corruption and fraud allegations that have weakened its support. While they remain the most powerful party, there is a belief that if Regent Applejack does not run they run the risk of being in the position of requiring a coalition in the parliament rather than dominating through superiority.

War Bowl Results

Grimtalon, County of Grimtalon- The County of Grimtalon, led by General Grimes 'Eat Lead' Grimtalon and with its star formation the 2nd Mechanized Grimmest Talons, defeated the County of Starweaver in their War Bowl matchup. Grimtalon forces suffered less than eighty-casualties to the Starweaver's three hundred and fifty and took the Strategic Objectives after only two days of fighting, putting the rest of the Starweaver force in jeopardy of being destroyed before they quit the field. Grimtalon moves to seven and two on the year and remains on war-bowl footing, ready for a matchup with leader in the standings Central Ariadna. "Those pansy ass city fucks won't know what hit 'em," Grimtalon said with a cigar in his mouth, observing a HAT-1 crew pulling the remains of their comrade from one of the burning vehicles. "Fuck'em."

Starweaver County's General Stiggiberger was tight-lipped about what changes he will make as his county preps for the rest of their season, which has been threatened by a series of heavy losses. The County's light infantry have performed well, but their dwindling stock of heavy arms and armament have made it difficult to respond to the threats posed by some of the better funded counties. Still, Starweaver County has never bowed out of the War Bowl due to losses, one of only four counties to never do so, and it is expected to push through the rest of the season despite three thousand casualties and a losing record.

The matchup achieved excellent ratings and was well played, with the Rangers only intervening in a penalty situation to destroy a Grimtalon recon force that illegally crossed a border. Streaming and television ratings were high, with the hand to hand fighting on Hill 220 being a particular post-match favorite among fans. Other War Bowl matchups are currently ongoing, with North and South Ariadna's blood feud and even bloodier fighting proving particularly exciting, achieving consistently high numbers throughout the week...

by **Castille de Italia** » Thu Jan 14, 2021 8:47 am

TERROR AND PANIC IN THE CAPITAL: TERRORISTS KILL 217
Potthani Brotherhood terror group claims responsibility for Founder's Day attacks.
Federal Senate votes to declare war on the group. President Faring authorizes military strikes.

Pictured: Crowds gather at Viridian Square in the Capitole Complexe in solidarity of fellow Castillians murdered in the terror attacks.
The square is in front of the Presidential Palace of Mountbatten Manor, where the President's office is. (AM Photo/Julius Bougain)

PRESLAFF - In the worst day of terror-related violence since the false-flag terror attacks of 2026 in Preslaff, multiple gunmen carried out a coordinated attack on multiple locations in Preslaff, the capital of Castillia and of the Castillian Federation late Friday afternoon. 217 were killed, while an estimated 592 are wounded, many critically. As of now Sunday morning, authorities report that all threats have been neutralized, aside from an ongoing hostage situation at the Preslaff Capitol Mall in the central business district, where at least 17 are still being held ransom by gunmen. Numerous law enforcement agencies from the local Capitol Police Service to the Federal Police Service, and military special forces are at the scene. Meanwhile, President Faring has authorized the mobilization of federal military forces to deploy across the Greater Capitol Region to support the Federal Police Service in law enforcement and anti-terrorism operations.

Preslaff Capitole du Fédération Aerodrome, the largest airport in the Castillian Federation and one of the largest in Greater Dienstad, was the main site of the terror attacks, where 114 were killed by the terror group, many in quite gruesome execution-style killings, some assailants going as far as to decapitate dead bodies. Terminal A7, where the attack took place, remains closed to the public and flights for Inter-Dienstadi Airways and Tranquility Airlines, the two airlines that service A7, have been redirected to Preslaff Belltower Field to the north of the city.

Police and military attention from the airport was initially diverted before the attack began when a bomb went off on the other side of the A Terminal Loop, at Terminal A1. After a few minutes, militants sprang from a van in the departures drop-off section and forced their way through the terminal, killing indiscriminately. The bomb at Terminal A1 led to no casualties or injuries, but caused substantial damage to supports for the multi-story arrivals and departures area of the terminal. At the Preslaff Capitol Mall, the same plan was attempted but reportedly the bomb there failed to go off. As the bomb did not go off, the group still carried out their plan. The bomb was declared completely neutralized by a Capitol Police bomb squad as the main killing stopped and the hostage situation began and still continues.

In a video that has been widely circulated on social media since the attacks, the Potthani Brotherhood claims responsibility for the attacks. The Potthani Brotherhood is a far-right radical terror group with beliefs in fundamentalist Potthani mythology, and has been responsible for several terror attacks in other nations, however the Preslaff attacks mark the farthest east in Greater Dienstad the group has been able to strike. The terror group claimed the attack has been retaliation for the treatment of Potthani minorities in the Castillian Federation, as well as recent Castillian military and civil operations in Potthan's neighbor, Barjaanistan, which the Potthani Brotherhood claim as part of their rightful homeland, along with wide swathes of the Potthani Empire and the isolated Imamate of Asadabad.

In response to the video, Vice-President of the Federation Harvey Hershey called for an emergency session of the Federal Senate, where several coalition senators introduced legislation to declare a state of war between the Federation and the Potthani Brotherhood. While there was a general consensus among both coalition and opposition for launching a military campaign against the Potthani Brotherhood, what remained more controversial topic pertained to the Imamate of Asadabad, which has for years been a state-sponsor of terrorism, providing refuge and material to the Potthani Brotherhood and other terror groups within western Greater Dienstad. The matter of a military campaign against Asadabad was a heated debate for hours, leading into the next morning, when a vote was finally brought and was passed by one vote more than the two-thirds majority that is required for a declaration of war by the Federal Senate. President Faring later briefed the nation in a televised address from the Federal Senate chamber where he announced the declaration of war.

There are currently unconfirmed reports of large-scale military operations underway in Asadabad, however due to the isolated geographic position and the quiet stance of the Defense Secretariat, it is difficult to be sure but it is likely they are true. Meanwhile, thousands have gathered across the capitol of the Federation in solidarity as many want justice. Over two-hundred thousand have gathered at Viridian Square in front of the Presidential Palace of Mountbatten Manor in the Capitole Complexe, many waving the Castillian banner and chanting "Je suis prêt à combattre" (I'm ready to fight). There have been very little reports of violence in the wake of the attacks, however there have been brief scuffles between police officers and Potthani immigrants in the 28th Arrondissement, which is an immigrant heavy district of the capitol. While many analysts expect a massive round-up of Potthani nationals living in the Federation (which does not exceed 5,000 per the Interior Secretariat), such a move has not been made, but it is assured that there is now a general hostility between many Castillians and Potthani nationals, despite the Potthani Brotherhood being disavowed by the Potthani Empire and Emperor Jericho III. Whether there will a joint effort between Potthan and Castillia on fighting the Potthani Brotherhood remains to be seen.

by **AHSCA** » Sat Jan 16, 2021 9:48 am

HMS Gisella Sets Sail for Mervay

-Report by the United Island Office of Culture and Information (UNICIM)-

AHSCA Islanders have never lost the fondness for antiquity even as the modern world has slowly encroached upon us, and no more is this evident than the maiden voyage of the newest ceremonial ship, HMS Gisella named in honor of Her Highness, Princess Gisella Villa. The ship which was a year-and-a-half endeavor by the Royal Aurora Ship Carpenters Guild as a special commission from Her Highness the Duchess Marcella Villa. While her Highness has her own personal craft, known as the HMS Hoshi, the Gisella is designed as a craft to accommodate to Her Highness and a greater amount of crew and multiple officers as needed for non-urgent sea travel for her Highness as so desired. The ship will also be available to accommodate non Royals for military and civilians alike in addition to the historic HMS Shino which serves as the Navy's "acclimation vessel" that is a ship that helps Naval cadets acclimatize to the difficulties of sea travel and test resolve for it.

The Gisella's maiden voyage will be taking her all the way to Mervay for an anticipated masked ball hosted at The Castle of Saint Marie on the evening of 16th of January 2021. This will be Her Highness is setting sail with her Officer of Foreign Relations, Officer Noir VinoCacao, Premier of Animalpolis Millhiore Firianno Biscotti, her Husband, Corporal Cinque Izumi, and their respected security staff members of the Crimson Knights and Cerulean Knights respectively. This will be the first trip to Mervay both as a diplomatic mission and pleasure time to see more of the lovely friend to the UIS. It seems despite some rumors of potential discontent among Her Majesty's Officers or other State leaders, Her Highness and her Foreign Officer are expected to be going together.

It seems despite the slower sail method, Her Majesty is also seldom concerned about making it on time with the party just a few short weeks away. With Her Highness heading to Mervay and Congress out of session until March, Princess Gisella Villa is expected to become acting Duchess in the time being. Her Highness has said she's ready to take on the short term responsibilities while her sister is overseas though she expects it to be a pretty light workload over all.

by **Palmyrion** » Tue Jan 19, 2021 11:18 am

OP-ED | The Grand Theocracy Isn't Communist or Socialist, It's Dirigist
Supreme Cardinal Elizabeth Milano, D.M.D.; Brandon Esguerra, Ph.D. (Economics) | 20 January 2036 10:34AM PST

The difference between dirigisme, socialism, and communism is vast
The hallmarks of a capitalist economic system exist in Holy Marsh
The state controls the economy - not because it wants to, but because it had to

Supreme Cardinal Milano's foreword: Allow me to address all accusations of bias in this op-ed. I may be the Supreme Cardinal of the Marshite Faith here in the Royal Commonwealth, and thus any accusations of defensive bias is perfectly understandable and welcomed as skepticism and criticism of the validity of my commentary, but I seek to explain the Grand Theocracy's economic system in the most objective means I can, free of any tint of theological bias. Thus this is why I collaborated with a professor of economics, Brandon Esguerra from Ateneo de Aragon (a Jesuit-managed Roman Catholic university, for starters!) for this op-ed, to provide professional outsider insight on the workings of the economy of the Grand Theocracy.

The election of Arch-Bishop Luboski as the leader of the Grand Theocracy and the Marshite Faith across the world came not without objections from Marshites who herald capitalism as the best economic system over leftist brands such as socialism and communism , particularly of her being the banner-bearer of the Commune Shrine. The accusations include her being a communist despot who will force communism and socialism upon Marshites and deprive them of private property; that she will undermine the free market in the name of socialism; and many more, to include many with anti-Semitic undertones that, out of respect for our Jewish brethren, I will not give even just one flying Fornication Under Consent of the King towards.

Dirigisme, Socialism, and Communism

"L'etat, c'est moi."

It cannot be denied: the state - and by association and non-separation the Church - dominates over the private sector in the Grand Theocracy. Over 90% of all economic activity in the Grand Theocracy is that of the Church-state, with the private industry only being a minuscule part of the Theocratic economy. Thus the attribution of the labels "communist" and "socialist" to the Thoecratic economy is understandable, but ultimately false.

There is a stark difference between socialism, communism and the Theocratic economy. The former two are typical leftist brands of economic systems: socialism is a theory of social organisation that advocates the vesting of the ownership and means of control of the means of distribution and production - of capital, land, etc. - in the community as a whole. Communism is an ideology that aims to establish a socioeconomic order structured upon the ideas of common ownership of the means of production and the absence of money, social classes, and the state.

It is indeed true that large swathes of the Theocratic economy is state-controlled, and thus "socialist". However, the Theocracy's ownership and control of the means of production and distribution aren't vested upon the community as a whole, but upon organisations such as Shrines and the equivalents of state-owned industries - keep in mind that the state and church are one and the same, and private enterprise is legal in the Grand Theocracy. The Theocratic economy is thus best described as a dirigistic economy, where the state has a strong (if iron fisted) role in the direction of the economy; contrast this with relegating the state to a merely regulatory or non-interventionist role in a free-market economy. Dirigism still applies even if the state controls large swathes of the economy of a certain country. One example of a dirigist state, though with the state's share of the economy being dwarfed by the private sector, is the Royal Commonwealth itself, with economic policy around its "strategic twelve" sectors (a term coined during the Third Millennium Recovery Plan, via the Comprehensive Industrial Plan) being subject to meticulous state direction. Another, more arguable, example would be the Russian Federation.

Capitalism in the Grand Theocracy

While the Grand Theocracy is by no means fully capitalistic, the hallmarks of capitalism still exist in the Theocracy. Within the Theocracy exist capital accumulation and distribution, free markets and competition, a price system, private property and recognition of property rights, voluntary exchange, and wage labour.

Capital flows around the Theocracy primarily by means of trade and taxation - and along with it goods and services. Communities and polities - even Shrines wholesale, within, and without - in the Theocracy still exchange goods, services, and capital with each other, with each exploiting local competitive and comparative advantages to trade with others. Competition still exists within the Theocracy's economy, primarily both within and among Shrines. Prices are still subject to this free market trade within the Grand Theocracy's borders. Individuals and groups can own and exchange property in the Theocracy. Wages are decided both by the free market and by collective bargaining.

For example, the Engineering Shrine will be immensely skilled in engineering, but dismal at art (well, they aren't exactly dismal at the arts, but let's assume for the sake of example), and the Artist Shrine needs precision tools which they lack the engineering skill to create; both Shrines can trade with each other, the former giving the latter exquisitely-engineered high-precision art tools and the latter giving the former immaculate pieces of art. Conversely, even within Shrines there can be trade; the various disciplines of engineering that the Engineering Shrine encompasses can and will even trade with each other, and so will the various artists under the Artist Shrine.

A Necessary Inconvenience

The Theocratic economy truly is dominated and meticulously directed by the state, and it would be a brash assumption, an injustice, to label it as either communist or socialist.

And the reason for that is not because the Church-State wants to, but it had to - for a very simple and obvious reason: the Long War. The war lasted from 100 BCE to 2008 CE, and that meant the Church-State had to focus much of its economic activity in waging a long, bloody war of faith and theological existence. Much of its goods, services, and capital was funneled into the purpose of sustaining such a conflict; the Theocracy had to maintain a healthy, motivated manpower pool from which it could derive labour and military manpower from, weapons had to be made, infrastructure enabling a total war economy had to be built, and resources had to be mined to feed the Theocratic war machine.

Many question the need for this policy in the years after the Long War, and even after the Civil War - but for the Marshite Church it believes that major military threats to the faith still exist even as the Lardite Cult had been pushed to the undercurrents of the world, especially after the Shift. It is even believed that the former Arch-Bishop Lainika (Praise Be To The Martyr!) believed that the Long War is truly not over, for the Lardite Cult merely is waging a protracted, low-intensity conflict against the Faith.

Personally, as the Supreme Cardinal of the Marshite Church in Palmyrion, and a leader-shepherd of the Marshite Faith, I believe that this economic policy is arguably necessary for the existence of the Grand Theocracy as a focal point of communion for the Marshite Faith across the globe, and as a beacon of strength and liberty for those who are members and allies of the Marshite Church. While I do not necessarily believe that state dominance of the economy - in terms of economic output - is a good thing, I will have questions about if the Theocratic economy will become dominated by the private sector (and when), and as a shepherd of the Faith I will do my part in cultivating ties between the Church-State and private corporations.

by **Kuronami** » Tue Jan 19, 2021 2:12 pm

"State of the Empire Address;" Empress Address COVID, Economy, Foreign Relations and a New Addition to Kuronami?

Monday night, Her Imperial Highness, Ortfiné Fredericka von Eylstadt, gave her first quinquennial, "State of the Empire Address" since crowned in 2016 before the National Assembly in Caloris with most presiding Lords and Ladies of the Domains present, the exception Lord and Lady Wisteria whom are attending a gala on behalf of Kuronami, in Mervay. The address lasted just under an hour where Her Highness addressed major points of accomplishments for her first five years of her reign in Kuronami as well as matters she wished for the Assembly and Domains to address in the years to come.

Her Highness dressed in the traditional Imperial Regalia for her address.

Her Highness touted the growth of the economy, which saw a GDP rise of 2.1% and a per capital increase of 2.8% a noticeable improvement from the six-year slump in the first few years upon her ascension, a bounce back from negative growth that had preceded it. On tax policy, Her Highness said a modest tax increase on top industry has helped spur economic growth, in contrary to early anxieties it would lead to prolonged recession . Though critics have argued the Empress' tax increases have only lead to minor increase as opposed to dramatic increases as hoped but Her Highness has largely shrugged off these concerns citing the broad need of social programs and infrastructure has made it worth it.

COVID-19 was brought up in the speech of her Highness, Kuronami has been fortunate to avoid the worst of the virus with early and aggressive screenings, early travel restrictions and an increased manufacturing focus on PPE and ventilator equipment. With no positive cases reported as of now, it seems Kuronami has avoided an economic shutdown from quarantine lock downs and curve flattening. Empress Von Eylstadt urged to remain vigilant while also saying Kuronami would be further prepared should the situation change by instituting an emergency fund that would allow the Government to take care of finances in the need of a massive nationwide lock down and scale back of services as other nations have had.

On Defense, Her Highness has said she'll maintain the current rate of defense spending which Her Highness did increase by 1.5% over the last two years, thus indicating no further increases nor decreases are expected. Citing the turbulent state of the world and the need to protect and respond to crisis at home and abroad. This was met with perhaps the most thunderous applause of all sitting Assembly members.

The biggest takeaway from Her Highness' address was the possibility of the addition of a new Domain, not seen since the early days of the Empire when Hang-Gang was partitioned off from present day Amaterasu. While exact details are not known, it has been known that Her Highness' Agent for State, Benio Hanamura, has been negotiating with an unrecognized territory in the Southern Seas, near the UIS of AHSCA. The Imperium of Astares Amauricanum, it's put a lot of questions on Kuronami's strategic placement in the region of Greater Dienstad, from natural deposits to protection and response to AHSCA as a friend. It's unknown at present if there's an island that is occupied and resisting absorption into the Astares Amauricanum Imperium but her Highness nor the State Agency have spoken openly on the matter.

Her Highness also focused on Kuronami's cultural and scientific acivements to better the world, from art and lit to Kuronami's financial contributions to COVID vaccine research. Stating the State of the Empire is strong and bright for the days ahead, her Highness concluded and adjourned her presence with the Assembly to a final round of applause.

by **Romandeos** » Thu Jan 21, 2021 2:46 am

Imperial & Union News Service

Empress Caroline has announced the completion of the final so-called Caroline Road, a series of passageways from the Romani island of Ervalla and the mainland to Union Island, the administrative heart of the Romani-Mar'si Union. The series of bridges, tunnels, and high-speed underground railways promise to make the commute from any one of the major Romani cities in the south and the island of Ervalla to Union Island a relatively droll affair. Empress Caroline herself has taken to using each and ever road after it was completed to instill confidence in the structures, and to help oversee the Union construction effort of Union Island itself that is nearing completion.

Artist's visualization of the interior of one of the planned tunnels.

The new highways number in the dozens, with an array of tunnels underneath the waves helped in their creation by Tel'Quessir specialists. Many large scale bridges span the way, dozens of kilometers in length and home to their own ecosystems of commerce. High speed railroad lines dot the landscape, and all the while more specialized helipads and submarine docking bays promise to make the transit easy. While the Union as a whole helped pave the way for this transportation network it was a Romani effort in the major thrust of it. The new network roads as a whole- known by decree as CR followed by a number- are estimated to be able to handle the transit of fifteen million persons without any significant delay, and triple that in times of need.

Her Majesty, who is rumored to personally dislike the name 'Caroline Road', released a statement:

"By our hands we have accomplished in a short time an engineering marvel at a scale many said was impossible. The Romani, as always, proved them wrong. Long Live the Romani-Mar'si Union."

Projections are for work on the project to last out the decade, generating many thousands of useful jobs for laborers and specialists from across the Union.

by **Holy Marsh** » Fri Jan 22, 2021 9:15 pm

Travel Schedule for Arch-Bishop Luboski Announced

Mar'si, Holy Marsh, Romani-Mar'si Union- Arch-Biship Luboski has announced her travel schedule, which will begin the first of next month with a trip to Solisia. She is expected to spend several days in the nation before heading to fellow Union mates Palmyrion and Romandeos. She is expected then to head to the Golden Throne and meet with the Sona Emperor Fedor to discuss matters of regional import before heading to Stevid, where she is expected to deal with the highest authorities. Lyras, Lamoni, and other allied states in the region of central and southern Dienstad are expected to be on the ledger. The island nation of AHSCA and the People's United Federation are to be visited, as are Korrodos and other Union states outside the region. This trip will include other nations as well, including a visit with a long-standing ally in Allanea.

The schedule was announced in conjunction with a list of changes that the Arch-Bishop is implementing across the diplomatic corp of the Theocracy. Many posts that have been left to languish are expected to be filled, along with a more streamlined diplomatic ranking structure. While not directly related, the Arch-Bishop is said to have placed greater demands on the Marshite diplomatic corp than the previous Arch-Bishops, who often viewed diplomacy as a relatively small concern. With Arch-Bishop Luboski expected to want the Theocracy to take a greater role in the region in matters other than militant advancement of moral imperatives. Her trip to various power brokers and allies is expected to be part of this campaign.

Before the trip however, the Arch-Bishop is said to greatly desire a meeting with Marshite leaders in the Sea of Faith to discuss the ongoing issues in their lands, and the necessity of a Theocratic response.

by **Palmyrion** » Sun Jan 31, 2021 10:10 pm

DND Creates AI-Enabled Tanks with Razer, AMD
RE1 Ayah Escudero DGA | 1 February 2021

CV.101A1RZR "Geyzer" created with Razer, NVIDIA, UP, AdA
CV.101A1RYZ "Raizen" created with AMD, Lubruska Aragon, Academy of St. Aquinas
Both tanks developed in anticipation for AFP use of AI

Foreword by the author: As an employee and researcher-engineer of the Directorate-General of Armaments of the Department of National Defence, I wish to write this without any political or corporate bias towards any of the companies and institutions mentioned in this article. I promise that my personal biases about the gaming industry and its products have not affected this article in any way, shape, or form.

MALOLOS, BULACAN, TAGALOG FR | In a public conference at the DGA Headquarters earlier today, the DGA unveiled the much-awaited CV.101A1RZR "Geyzer" and CV.101A1RYZ "Raizen" tanks, developed with the capability to utilise artificial intelligence for future conflicts and battlespaces. Both tanks have been developed over the course of two years starting in early 2019, reflecting on lessons learned from the Turbulent Tens Conflict and wargames based on implementation of "mosaic warfare".

The CV.101A1RYZ at the DGA Testing Grounds in Malolos, Bulacan.

"If harnessed correctly, artificial intelligence may be the most revolutionary force multiplier in the arsenal of the AFP, perhaps in an extent that would rival the advent of gunpowder and explosives." CRE Howard Fath DGA remarked in a press conference in the DGA headquarters.

The CV.101A1RZR, dubbed the "Geyzer", was developed jointly by NVIDIA, Razer, University of Palmyrion, and Lubruska Aragon, and features the Razer Tomahawk as its battlespace management system's central processing unit; the Razer Tomahawk as built by Razer for the military has an Intel i9-9980HK processor, 32GB of DDR4 RAM, a 1TB SATA Solid State Drive, and an NVIDIA RTX 2080Ti graphics processing unit. The CV.101A1RYZ, dubbed the "Raizen", was developed jointly by AMD, Ateneo de Aragon, and the Academy of St. Aquinas; its BMS central processing unit features an AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, an AMD Radeon RX 5700, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a SATA 1TB SSD.

Both are touted to have a "machine learning-assisted battlespace management system", which hints at the beginnings of an AI-based battlespace management system.

Many questioned and even made humour out of the use of what are essentially gaming set-ups by the military in the recent tank designs. Over the course of the tanks' development, memes have been created revolving around the tanks, primarily around the popular "Can It Run Crysis" meme.

One of the memes created around the prototype tank.

In response to skepticism around the computer hardware used on the prototypes, the CRE Fath of the DGA replied, "The gaming GPUs are intended for use as AI accelerators in conjunction with the main processors. That we chose GPUs which are widely used by the gaming industry is intentional, in order for us to tap into an immense pool of commercial off-the-shelf products, citing that the GPUs are in widespread production for the video game sector". CRE Fath even addressed the "Can It Run Crysis" memes revolving around the tank, saying: "Yes, we are using gaming desktop rigs proven to be able to run Crysis Remastered at the much-touted "Can It Run Crysis" graphics settings, albeit at 1920x1080 resolution only." he remarked.

As for the future of the tanks, CRE Fath said "the future is uncertain", though many industry experts touted the prototype tanks' release as technology demonstrators as a "pioneering success in the military use of AI" while noting that "a plethora of rough edges have to be polished".

by **Palmyrion** » Thu Feb 04, 2021 10:16 am

Navy Decision To Name Pestilence-class SSBN After Ongoing Pandemic Garners Condemnation
Pauline Yacat| 5 February 2021

SSBN-120 christened the "COVID-19" during commissioning ceremony
Naming decision garners condemnation as "insensitive" and in "bad taste"
Navy claims no malicious intent in naming

by **Eitoan** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 3:07 pm

R&V Oil Reports Progress in Domestic Production

R&V Oil, Eitoan’s third largest producer and refiner announced a 17% increase in crude production on a yearly basis. Almost all of the increase was attributed to domestic production, boosted by output growth in the company’s oil sands lease holdings in the south, close by the Smigly Ridge. Far Smigly Plant #3 went online last July, accounting for much of the oil sands contribution. The reported 2.3% price increase in aggregate petrol demand is expected to give R&V revenue a significant boost this year and the company’s stock registered a 3.6% gain on the Kelso exchange.

The southern oil sands have been an important part of domestic production in the last decade. Oil sands are a naturally occurring mixture of heavy oil — called bitumen — water and sand. Producers use mining or in-situ extraction methods to recover bitumen, depending on the depth of the reserves. For in-situ recovery, producers inject steam into underground reservoirs that contain bitumen. The steam heats the bitumen and reduces its intensity, enabling it to flow and be produced. operations. The footprint of these operations is considerable, requiring careful environmental planning and management.

Oil will remain the country’s largest energy source in the next decade, meeting about 40% of demand. Nearly 95% of current transportation energy needs are met by oil, and continental energy demand for transportation is projected to increase by about 35% percent by in the next decade.

Eitoan’s oil sands represent an important source of secure, accessible and affordable energy to help strengthen the national energy security.

The availability of such a resource, co-located with Northern Vanguat markets, is even more attractive today for two reasons. First, many conventional onshore oil fields are maturing; meeting rising energy demand requires new production from less traditional resources, like oil sands. Second, some of the world’s remaining reserves are owned or controlled by national governments or cartels. Eitoan’s oil sands constitute a goodly percentage of the total oil reserves accessible for private sector investment, and under Eitoan sovereignty.

R&V has expressed concern among a range of stakeholders regarding the development of oil sands in the southern territories. A company spokesman cited innovation in oil sands technology that underpins the company’s ability to continue to develop this resource safely and responsibly. Providing several examples, R&V has displayed what they identified as incremental and game-changing technologies to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impacts at their oil sands facilities. Technologies in the R&D cycle are being developed to enable R&Vl to produce their oil sands with about the same life-cycle GHG emissions levels as many other crude oils refined in western Greater Dienstad.

Producers in the southern oil sands region have invested significantly in improved performance and process engineering streamlinig in order to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Recently developed technologies are improving oil sands production efficiency, which reduces both the environmental impact and cost often associated with production. To date, southern oil sands producers have shared more than 947 distinct technologies and innovations that cost more than $32.5 billion Quada to develop. These numbers are increasing as the production matures and expands.

R&V’s Smigly operations, for example, using advanced mining techniques, energy-saving cogeneration and producing diluted bitumen without an upgrader, have resulted in about the same life-cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as many other oils refined in Eitoan.

The use of solvent-assisted steam assisted gravity drainage (SA-SAGD) the company’s Afvdv in-situ oil sands project have resulted in about a 25-percent reduction in GHG intensity through lower energy utilization, compared to traditional SAGD production, as well as reduced water requirements — while resulting in a 25-40 percent improvement in production yield.

Stickney Philharmonic Music Director to Emeritus Status

Stephanie Dalton, incumbent Music Director of the Stickney Philharmonic Orchestra whas been promoted to Emeritus status. The honor was reported by the Board of Directors this morning at the Philharmonic’s home, Tryon Hall. The move had been expected for quite some time. Mrs. Dalton has been the Stickney’s Music Director for 14 years, also serving as Principal Conductor until her retirement from that post 3 years ago.

The Board of Directors also announced the formation of a search committee for her successor. Five directors are serving on the committee, and they are joined by the Philharmonic’s Concertmaster, Director of Education, First Chair French Horn, Director of Media, First Chair Clarinet, and Master of Percussion.

Mrs. Dalton’s career was distinguised as the first woman Music Director among Eitoan’s Big Eight orchestras, championing late romantic Eitoan composers such as Shanaghzy and Rittobaum, long thought out of fashion, as well as some more popular foreign favorites. She expanded the foreign itinerary with the Stickney’s first appearances off continent, in The Timocratic Republic and Palmyiron.

Leading candidates at this time are thought to include the orchestra’s incumbent Principal Conductor Larry Gunn, The Kelso Orchestra’s First Assistant Music Director Julie Harris, The Berwyn Symphony’s Principal Conductor William Hzvag, and Conductor/Composer Barry Kbel, now in residence with the Aurensian National Symphony Orchestra in Avalon. Mr. Gunn and Mr. Hzvag have been in rivalry since their days at the Kruse-Lee Institute of Music 25 years ago.

Bears Take Frontier Barrier Trophy

The Berwyn Tech Bears withstood a late 4th quarter rally by Aurensia’s Univerity of Portsmouth Lions 27-21, leading to an overtime victory and awarding the Bears the Frontier Barrier Trophy in collegiate post-season football play.

The Bears triumphed in the 56th annual Cross Border Classic, led by 3rd year quarterback Steve Benefield, connecting of 26 of 35 passes to outdistance hapless Lion ball hurler Charles Thompson 403 to 227 yards passing. Berwyn Tech similarly led in the ground game, 293 to 227 yards. The Lions, this year’s champion in Aurensia’s Confederation League held the Bears scoreless in the 4th quarter until running back Joe Post peeled off a 35 yard run with 32 seconds to go to bring Berwyn Tech within a point of sending the game into overtime. Bear kicker Bezalel Seilman, a walk on Sophomore split the uprights to tie the game. The Bears recovered on an onside kick to finish regulation time.

With first posession of the overtime period, Thompson was sacked on his own 28 yard line during third down. Tech punt returner Jonathan Jerome then performed an astounding 72 yard return to end the game 4 minutes into the overtime.

The Bears, third place in the Coastal League this year racked up a 6-5 record in conference play. Their victory at the Cross Border was viewed as unlikely.

One of the first of the international post season contests, the Cross Border has long been the final note of the football season in both Eitoan and Aurensia. U. of Portland holds a 29-27 edge in taking home the Cross Border Barrier.

by **Cartoonia** » Fri Feb 12, 2021 4:55 pm

Artisit rendition of the government building in Crossoveria

What Cartoonia doesn’t know about their enemies, the better. But unfortunately, when the enemy has sworn to destroy the Cartoonian way of life, the Cartoon government must carry on their plan to defeat them at all costs. It has been over a year since the discovery of the ACE and the two nations Cartoonia dreads to hear of, Crossoveria and The Imagination Animals. It is Cartoonia’s domestic policy that safeguards children and the ideals of childhood. Unfortunately, that was not the domestic nor foreign policies of the enemy. The autocratic nation had their leader form Anti-Child Exposure inc. (ACE) which transformed children into animals not just in their nation, but slowly invading nations left and right. It would appear that they were destined for world domination. But of course, that wouldn’t happen when Cartoonian big-stick diplomacy would have anything to do with it. During the summer transition period between Chancellor Erza Scarlet and Chancellor Nigel Uno, the ACE tried to invade Cartoonia which ultimately failed against the Cartoonian military forces. There were plans to obliterate the Imagination Animals as well since it was a totalitarian state that bred these terrorists to begin with. These operations included a full-blown military invasion, the nuclear option, and the deadliest weapon known to man. However, this would not go through.

Artisit rendition of Zeeter Saldivar (pink hair) and lackeys

In December of 2020, the ACE collapsed under revolution and their leader was arrested, or so they say. In the place of their former totalitarian was a democratic system that Cartoonia would have implemented on them. Cartoonians would have rested easy if it weren’t for the previous precedence that has been set by the nation. Not once, but twice has Cartoonia been screwed over by the ongoing changes in government and revolutions left and right. Cartoon officials have figured that nothing will ever change. “With this nation, our forces are always on high alert,” says Ludwig Belischmidt, Secretary of Defense. “As one administration claims peace, another organization will come and destroy it. We can never be at peace”. Cartoon youth are still living in fear of being murdered and abused by these nationals. “It has been stated time and time again that these people would continue to hurt children. Both at home and abroad,” says Lisa Simpsons, the former Attorney General of Chancellor Erza Scarlet and now the Secretary of Child Welfare. “Judging by the laws of the past administration and the aims of the terrorist organization, there is no surprise that all of this betrayal has been caused by our policies of the importance of youth”. There have been other issues in regards to anthropomorphic animals and demi-humans. “The way their laws have dehumanized anthropomorphic peoples is sick and distasteful,” says Raphtalia Iwatani, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and a demi-human herself. “This isn’t the nineteenth century, it is the twenty-first. These signs of discrimination are disgusting and insensitive to those who live here”. Cartoon officials have worked out a treaty with the new administration. But there is little hope for it to be signed anyway.
-Lucy Heartfilia, Head-Journalist for The Gallagher Herald

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