Your Leader's Opinion on AN's Leader - ♥ Mk. 15 ♥

[The Holy Dragon Imperium]

/BUMP

[Lothria]

"I've spoken my concerns about the Great Mother previously. I fear she is discredited by her associations with... certain demonic powers, if not by her very existence. She is a false god. One who I fear has hijacked a nation and led her people upon the path of damnation. I do sympathise with her people, as I would any heretic, seduce by dark forces to tred the path to hell. I have also made plain my opinion of kobolds as a race. I have encountered their kind many times before, often during my youth and on occasion as a man, and will be the first to admit I have little care for their kind. Theirs is a race of petty thieves, criminals and rapscallions, for which I have little respect. My kingdom is one of warriors, who stand alone against the oncoming darkness, and we've no place for the craven souls that count themselves among the kobolds. If nothing else, I've yet to meet one of the lizardmen who can hold their own in a fight against the common man, let alone a Vampire Lord.

All that being said, I do have some sympathy for Pope Sa’ash. I was not born in the slums as she was. I was about as high born as one could get outside of the royal family. My father was a duke, and while I was not in the immediate line to inherit his lands, I benefited greatly from his wealthy. Despite my ambition and my drive, I often wonder if I would have the makings of a king if I were born into a common family. I do believe the pope and I share a common trajectory, however. I was never cut out for studious work, and struggled with my education much as she did. I had grander aspirations, and cared little for the books of a scholar. That was more the field of my brother - the greatest man I ever had the pleasure of knowing - and he excelled in areas I could not. I do respect him, and by extension any man... or being, willing to dedicate themselves to a higher calling, for it was always something I struggled with.

I dare say that amongst her people, there are few greater than Sa’ash. I can hardly image a holy man... or woman... more devoted to their cause than the pope, and I reckon that her church could find no more capable leader. All that said, hers is a false church, dedicated to a false god. I do not doubt her conviction, only the truth of her religion. I can see that she has a good heart. I only fear that it is gravely misguided."

- His Grace Harland III Gaunt, King of the Lothrians, Duke of Umberland, Shield of the West

[Nomayuki]

"Yeah, this King has faced many challenges and still does. I know someone who lost his family during a massacre. That happens to be the Prime Minister, my adoptive brother. I remember seeing him cry while walking on the street with his brother trying to comfort him to no avail. Now imagine this King who has experienced much more torture than Seroy. I also feel his desire to unite the nation to fight against a common enemy. To be honest, it was much harder to regulate American companies to comply with our environmental standards than to invade their country. Where I'm from, the world is heating up fast and everyone needs to take action against it, yet some are still too stubborn to heed this call and comply. It's also very cool that he can fight and go to battle himself. I'd boast that I was (and still am) an expert marksman during my time as a cop, but it is truly something else to be the only one worthy of carrying an overpowered sword - and being good at using it, too. Overall, he's a good one and I'd befriend him if I could. I truly hope he and the elves triumph over the Vampire Lords."
- Ajimoto Ikuzu, President of Nomayuki

[Chinchilla Land]

"Squeak? Squeak?! SQUEAKKKKKKKK!!!"

-Chinchy

[The Merry-Men]

"Yeah, this King has faced many challenges and still does. I know someone who lost his family during a massacre. That happens to be the Prime Minister, my adoptive brother. I remember seeing him cry while walking on the street with his brother trying to comfort him to no avail. Now imagine this King who has experienced much more torture than Seroy. I also feel his desire to unite the nation to fight against a common enemy. To be honest, it was much harder to regulate American companies to comply with our environmental standards than to invade their country. Where I'm from, the world is heating up fast and everyone needs to take action against it, yet some are still too stubborn to heed this call and comply. It's also very cool that he can fight and go to battle himself. I'd boast that I was (and still am) an expert marksman during my time as a cop, but it is truly something else to be the only one worthy of carrying an overpowered sword - and being good at using it, too. Overall, he's a good one and I'd befriend him if I could. I truly hope he and the elves triumph over the Vampire Lords."
- Ajimoto Ikuzu, President of Nomayuki

"Am I going to have to slap a dirty little Jap? And he was a dirty fucking pig too! Oink oink, want a donut, you piggy fuck!? Sorry, just had to get that out of me... bad history with pigs- er, law enforcement. Nice knife throwing skills, by the way, wish you could have brought those with ya when that dumb redneck bastard from the Klan shot you in the eyeball, aye, cyclops? Don't think I don't know how fragile you pigs really are when it comes down to it. No matter all those pretty little dreams and promises of going to Mars, getting rid of the drugs or having the populace suck your fuckin' takoyaki, nothing will prepare you for the chaos that is true humanity. And sending TikTokers to re-education camps? You're fucking joking me, aren't you? Maybe that bullet in that skull left some shards in your brain! Take a few Élan Schools and have some very upset boys and girls run amok Columbine style within them; that'll hopefully re-activate a few of your braincells, and maybe, your little billionaire basket-case big corporation can let us enjoy our Roblox Condos and furry Discord roleplays in PEACE!

And what, you suggested to poor Zhang to protest the bloody Chinese Communist Party all by herself!? I might as well go up to Mike Tyson, give him the finger, call him a n!@#$% and tell him Jake Paul is his uncle, see how well that goes for me! You practically killed the poor bird, they were just the aides to your own little crimes. But it's okay, we all do little crimes every now and then, I just stopped caring for how much I indulged a long time ago... little crimes, yes... four little crimes that'll make me the headlines and you into a sadsack....

But, who am I to judge? There's so much to unpack here, even I don't have all the time in my day to take it all in one bite, as lazy as it sounds to admit... So enjoy the rest of your day, and hope this time we haven't put anything funny into your morning cup of coffee like we did back in the good old days, eh? "Highest President in Town"?"
~Mary Rothberg

"Squeak? Squeak?! SQUEAKKKKKKKK!!!"

-Chinchy

"Not much to you, is there, you adorable little rodent? I think you'll have more worth on my dinner plate! I remember one time I was on a massive bender, I got locked in a zoo with a few of the lads and oh BOY was that mayhem for a good 5 hours until the cops broke through the ambushes I set up and we had to lickety split! But not before inventing a most exotic and mouth-watering dish... Sauté de Chinchilla. A single chinnie, 3 chopped onions, a bit of bacon, 2 tomatoes, some mushrooms and some eggplant, salt & pepper, some butter, a jar of homemade mixed herb dressing and a frying pan. Your tastebuds will enter Heaven while granting you a one-way ticket to hell."

[Daphomir]

"I've never met this lady in my life! She seems like a nice person, though. Somebody get me her number." - Leader

[The Merry-Men]

"I've never met this lady in my life! She seems like a nice person, though. Somebody get me her number." - Leader

"This is either the most obvious trap I'm falling for or you've just made the biggest mistake in your country's history! But oh well... I'll be seeing you around, luv! What say I get a personal, secure flight to Damphomir City and we can meet up at the finest restaurant you have? I sincerely promise I definitely won't bring any assortment of illegal drugs or weapons either through my connections or on my general person! <3"

/skipme. or /stillme, perhaps, that reply was rather lackluster in my personal opinion. Your choice. I won't judge

[The Merry-Men]

/ba-bump!

[The Children of Mercy]

Where do we even begin? In the name of God's grace we will extend the following compliment: The Show-woman is dogged in pursuing her aims. Such diligence, were it exercised in the name of expanding God's light, would be commendable. Instead, Satan expresses himself through this witch. Were we close, we would ensure she meets The Lord for her righteous judgment.

"Condemnations of the Dissolute" from The Most Moral Priesthood

[Sky Reavers]

"I can rant about her, but... I did that in the past. Now, I just wonder, how the hell did UK let her make it's capital a stomping ground?! These dudes just captured prison like that! Well, if any gang tried shit like that in our Junction or New Sodom, they'd be swiftly gettin' lots of new holes! Maybe, she is even more dangerous than I used to belvie... If so, then we should learn about them as much as we can. I have read the reports about Merrymen tactics, and I have to admit... There are effective methods, we didn't even think about and they are worth studying. Sadly, most of the tactics rely on the tortures or harm to the innocents, all of which goes agaisnt our creed... But even then, they are worth studying, so we can develop countermeasures for them. They left New York, sure... But they are still out there. If so, then she and her terrorists better not even dare to show up in our lands! Our bullets are loaded, blades are sharpened and lasers are primed! I don't care how smart, cunning or cruel she is, we ain't scared and we won't let her terrorize us!"-Overboss Liam Navarro

Ninja'd
"We are heretics to them, huh? Oh, man... come and punish us! We have been bad, bad dudes... Just remember, your prayers won't protect ya' from our bullets and lasers... I can't belvie, I am sayin' this, but these "priests" are even much worse than Edgar's tyranny! Some people did ask, why the hell we militarize and spend money not only on social policies, but on weapon development and military. Because multiverse is swarmin' with vile terrorist gangs, slavers, and also insane heretic fanatics like Children of Mercy, who perverse Christianity into this mess they call "True Christianity", to justify their terror. Either way, these Chirlder of Mercy are... just another terrorist group. Dangeorus one. But, pretty much one we can handle. I know, it sounds weird from a pagan agnostic, but... our New Sodom Satanist Cult is much more Christian than these "Priests"."-Overboss Liam Navarro

[Pathonia]

"Hold up-"
"This guy dislikes broccoli?"
"I like him already!"
"And that hair, you can't hate on somebody with such awesome hair..."
"He seems to take this leadership thing a bit loosely, I can appreciate that."
"There's that little thing in his head, what is that, a robot? Whatever it is; I most certainly don't think that's something positive. I prefer people to be... well... people..."
"All in all, that guy is nice. Ain't all bad, but he could be better. I wouldn't be at all opposed to meeting him in person!"

[The South Afrikan Union]

I cannot say I enjoy the empress aspect of Mrs. Augusta, Nor do I enjoy her dislike of broccoli. However, I can say she has led Pathonia with a gentle and benevolent hand. Her leaning towards the leftist aspect of politics does not lead me to dislike or like her more than i already personally did. Perhaps my view is different due to the fact i was democratically elected and not simply given the power based on my blood, but all nations- and cultures- are different.

-Joe Van Zyl Biden

[Daphomir]

"Seems like a good person in general." - Leader, with not much opinion

[Lothria]

"I must say, I'm not especially impressed by Lord Biden. The man seems utterly unremarkable - no great leader or reformer, nor a blood-stained tyrant. Simply nothing. I cannot imagine he will be long remembered by his people, either for better or for worse. I mean, what has he done, truly? He has 'managed to deal with issues', I suppose, but I will not count that towards his credit. In fact, I would certainly hope that anyone who has sought - not just once, but twice - the captaincy of their realm would be prepared to deal with issues. When I claimed the throne from the Darkwoods, I was certainly prepared to do just that, and when I ascend to the Golden Hall of the Gods, I trust my people will have more to say of me than that. I was a conqueror, I was a reformer, who fought tooth and nail to preserve my Kingdom. But then again, he is a man of peacetime. Not a champion of peace, but rather a product of it. His birth seems to have occurred during a time of great prosperity for his realm, and as much as I pray that my son will inherit the peace I have fought for, I also pray that he will endure his own hardships, to mould him into a proper king, rather than a spoiled princeling. Again, Lord Biden is a most unimpressive leader - were he a tyrant I would at least find him interesting. As is, he is hardly worthy of my attention. But he is an old man, and I doubt his people will sing his praises for much longer. As for his so-called 'bitchlessness', I am again afraid I cannot relate."

- His Grace Harland III Gaunt, King of the Lothrians, Duke of Umberland, Shield of the West

[Katipunan K K]

"I must say, I'm not especially impressed by Lord Biden. The man seems utterly unremarkable - no great leader or reformer, nor a blood-stained tyrant. Simply nothing. I cannot imagine he will be long remembered by his people, either for better or for worse. I mean, what has he done, truly? He has 'managed to deal with issues', I suppose, but I will not count that towards his credit. In fact, I would certainly hope that anyone who has sought - not just once, but twice - the captaincy of their realm would be prepared to deal with issues. When I claimed the throne from the Darkwoods, I was certainly prepared to do just that, and when I ascend to the Golden Hall of the Gods, I trust my people will have more to say of me than that. I was a conqueror, I was a reformer, who fought tooth and nail to preserve my Kingdom. But then again, he is a man of peacetime. Not a champion of peace, but rather a product of it. His birth seems to have occurred during a time of great prosperity for his realm, and as much as I pray that my son will inherit the peace I have fought for, I also pray that he will endure his own hardships, to mould him into a proper king, rather than a spoiled princeling. Again, Lord Biden is a most unimpressive leader - were he a tyrant I would at least find him interesting. As is, he is hardly worthy of my attention. But he is an old man, and I doubt his people will sing his praises for much longer. As for his so-called 'bitchlessness', I am again afraid I cannot relate."

- His Grace Harland III Gaunt, King of the Lothrians, Duke of Umberland, Shield of the West

"His Grace? Well, Harland III is an interesting leader, he reminds of those European Kings of the Holy Roman Empire. except this man isn't European, despite his blonde hair, and I can't tell what era, a umm... "Equos 1308 AE". Sounds Medieval?? Well, His Grace, Harland III is a interesting man and is certainly a strong man."
-Carmalita De la Cruz

[Lothria]

/stillme or /skipme. AN clearly didn't bother reading my factbook beyond the first few lines, but I can't confidently say /stillme unequivocally. My fate is in your hands, BN

[Katipunan K K]

/stillme or /skipme. AN clearly didn't bother reading my factbook beyond the first few lines, but I can't confidently say /stillme unequivocally. My fate is in your hands, BN

Wait, are you trying to say Lothria actually is in Europe, I thought it wasn't in Europe I didn't see that in the factbook that I read, although I did see the leader's history (which I could care less for same thing for wargear and trivia) /skipme

[Lothria]

/stillme or /skipme. AN clearly didn't bother reading my factbook beyond the first few lines, but I can't confidently say /stillme unequivocally. My fate is in your hands, BN

Wait, are you trying to say Lothria actually is in Europe, I thought it wasn't in Europe I didn't see that in the factbook.

I'm saying you barely put any effort into your response. All you said was he is interesting, not European, and blonde (he's albino actually and it says that). The details you mentioned can be found in the first couple lines, and people here generally expect more

/skipme or /stillme

[The Merry-Men]

Children, children, settle down, please!

"I must say, I'm not especially impressed by Lord Biden. The man seems utterly unremarkable - no great leader or reformer, nor a blood-stained tyrant. Simply nothing. I cannot imagine he will be long remembered by his people, either for better or for worse. I mean, what has he done, truly? He has 'managed to deal with issues', I suppose, but I will not count that towards his credit. In fact, I would certainly hope that anyone who has sought - not just once, but twice - the captaincy of their realm would be prepared to deal with issues. When I claimed the throne from the Darkwoods, I was certainly prepared to do just that, and when I ascend to the Golden Hall of the Gods, I trust my people will have more to say of me than that. I was a conqueror, I was a reformer, who fought tooth and nail to preserve my Kingdom. But then again, he is a man of peacetime. Not a champion of peace, but rather a product of it. His birth seems to have occurred during a time of great prosperity for his realm, and as much as I pray that my son will inherit the peace I have fought for, I also pray that he will endure his own hardships, to mould him into a proper king, rather than a spoiled princeling. Again, Lord Biden is a most unimpressive leader - were he a tyrant I would at least find him interesting. As is, he is hardly worthy of my attention. But he is an old man, and I doubt his people will sing his praises for much longer. As for his so-called 'bitchlessness', I am again afraid I cannot relate."

- His Grace Harland III Gaunt, King of the Lothrians, Duke of Umberland, Shield of the West

"Ah, if isn't Grace Kelly, King of the Pumpkin Patch! I've missed you and your wrinkly face, cyclops! How are the peasants? Dying from dysentery and dragon pox as usual? Good to hear! Sad to see you don't like me... eh, you have too much. Maybe when you lose everything you'll see things my way, but unless... say, some hotshot conqueror strolls into town and starts blowing things apart. Everyone starts stabbing each other, your Black Wing Cavalry stick their lances in a suicide bomber and get blown apart, a log of shit gets thrown at the tapestry, and when every army you have gets either caught lacking or just gets overwhelmed, and you're sitting at the dining of your own home signing that ceasefire treaty... what the hell do you do then? Pretty humbling experience, I can say myself. Well, I guess there's a difference between a tattered throne and a dungeon, but you know.

And by the way, you muffin-walloping dolt, I do in fact know what it means to truly torment someone. I've tried and tested everything you'd probably find in that one-of-a-kind book of yours; flaying, spaying, gutting, boiling; the rat bucket, the iron maiden, the prickly pear, the jangly jingler, the throngler, the Swedish Cocktail, the Texas Chili Bowl... and half of that I learned in high school in history class! The other half was from the Internet. Also save a small chunk for my boys... they can get very creative. But there's other ways other than the gory and glorious that you can break a man. Hold him in a box while scary noises play through a speaker. Throw a towel over his face and piss on it. Stick him in a rubber room full of rubber rats for a week. Make him watch Amy Schumer routines back-to-back. And all other sorts of things. And if not him? The other lad. Maybe the sight of his wife being [REDACTED] might put his stoicism aside and unveil his true emotions.

The best part is, I don't even have to go after you in particular. If I managed to drop into your world (most likely after being run over by a garbage truck), I wouldn't even gather or mobilise or anything. I'd play a whole different tune, biding my sweet time until I can peel the skin off Gwynn's head and wear it as some sort of disguise until you figure it out and leave me laughing my ass off until I decide to fill you and your best guards and champions with lead. I might even stick a few in Warrick Jr. an- oh? Who the hell is this? Fergus of Wells? Born out of wedlock? Oh me, oh my! I might not even have to hurt everybody, I'll just have to convince the little one how much of a claim to the throne he as and you'll probably end up killing each other! Though you'll be smart enough to pick me out on sight before all that goes down, if you're not absolutely blasted on pipeweed (which by the way, tried some native grown Umberland stuff, it's actually mid as fuck), but I'll make sure to make a few moves before that so that when I'm drawn and quarted and my arse is impaled out on the gates for the babes to whack around with sticks, it wouldn't have been for nothing.

Or is it? You seem to be pretty fixated on having my head. Slaying the horde of monsters coming your way. Bathing in their blood. Avenging the innocent who would be long dead. But are you really all that different from us? You've been fighting sword duels since 15, I've been stabbing people since I was 13. You sack cities, I make it so they never existed. I just do my work on a bigger scale and you do yours under the excuse of a flag. You like that big castle over there? You want it? Go get it. You've got the bigger army, you don't need to give proper reasons in your time period at least. Oh wait, most of the time your enemies are the undead, right? Yeah, definitely not going to ask about the women and children vampires. Or the friendly vampires. Like, maybe for every nine Nosferatus there's an Edward Cullen in there, right? Too bad he doesn't matter. He's the enemy. He's worthless. A puddle of shit that just has to be stepped on. But we know who the real enemy is; everyone we don't like. That's what it boils down to. So in short, your parents died for nothing, your troops died for nothing, your butt-buddy Warrick Sr. died for nothing and the one person I can even come close to sympathizing with in your entire family tree is Fergie the Bastard, simply because he was born out of wedlock and the very thought of you being forced to watch your sons kill each other over a diamond-embezzled chair makes my girlhood tremble!

But yeah, you really want to go out of your way to cut down a guild of bandits when there's monsters around the joint. I'm sure maybe a few brave adventurers wielding the all-powerful Staffs of Kalashnikov and riding the mighty war-beasts known as Honda Civics could get the job done, but if it takes a bit more effort, so be it. I'll just remember to rob a few blood banks before my trip so I have something to bribe the vampires with. Though if they bit me, I think the sheer amount of drugs and STIs in my system would cause them to shrivel, dry up and die on the first sip. Whatever, I'll just gamble on it as I've always have. That trip to Haiti wouldn't have been quite the adventure it was if I knew what I was getting myself into, after all!

Keep that mail shirt on, sleep with the one eye you've still got left open. Practice that quickdraw and lock the castle gates, because out of all the dirty worms and grime of this multiverse, even that party animal and misguided soul Liam Navarro gets to be put aside for once. You're bold, you're unique, and most importantly, you have recieved my utmost attention. You know me now as a miserable little lunatic killer and a mentally defective ghoul, but you will come to know me as the avatar of Morrigan. That's your big bad, right? Big scary Morrigan. Bleeeegh. But yeah, I'll look up more on him later because this could be very useful to me... anyways, see you 'round, luv."

~Mary Rothberg

"His Grace? Well, Harland III is an interesting leader, he reminds of those European Kings of the Holy Roman Empire. except this man isn't European, despite his blonde hair, and I can't tell what era, a umm... "Equos 1308 AE". Sounds Medieval?? Well, His Grace, Harland III is a interesting man and is certainly a strong man."
-Carmalita De la Cruz

"And who the fuck are you supposed to be, Mrs. Cruz? Conservative economy preserver, Princess of the Filipino armed forces? Cool and good. Keep pushing those bills and balancing those taxes or whatever in your cantora, dirty skunk-fucking wench. I'll blow your stupid holiday home island to glass too, I suppose. Bloody Tories, the migrant community lives in their head rent free. WHERE THE FUCK IS MY METH PIPE!? HOW DO INANIMATE OBJECTS ALWAYS EVADE ME?"

[Sheizou]

Oh...Mary...Here comes another time where you have somehow crossed the clutter of my mind. In my time walking through hells and witnessing profound horrors that defy most comprehension. It's perhaps cases like these where I desire the ability to truly feel something, yet what good would that possibly be? I do not wish to have to bear a reaction to you.
Out of the mortals I have encountered, dead or alive, I do believe you are one of the most insane. Congratulations, is that what you wish? Maybe. I struggle to find redeeming qualities, you display not a single heavenly virtue. But, you know me enough to know that heavenly virtues mean nothing to me. No, I see you for simply who you are, as much of my lenses of judgement are set at 0. You are insane, damaged, ruthless and smart. A combination set for terror. In all the different possibilities and realities I could comb through, you still remain quite fascinating in that regard. Yet, do not mistake my mild fascination with you and your psyche every now and then for invitation. Please do not sell your soul, do not attempt to find me, or anything else. If I truly need you for anything, the only concievable reason being to test the most potent blend of smoke I an come up with on a willing mortal, I will appear myself.
Seeing as that is said and done, please do not come and disrupt my laziness. I deal with that from others already. No need to add you into the mix of my corner of the afterlife.

[The Zirkovian Host]

"Kira of the Dead.. Is an interesting person, if I am to call them such. I do wonder if a lost soul counts as a person, though if I'm to put any stock in the opinions of demons, that seems not to be the case. Gods, I've seen quite a few things in my life, but never a soul such as this. I suppose I never considered it a possibility, or a matter best left for the clerics to discuss. But there is something I believe the two of us might see eye to eye on. See, while I suppose I was lucky enough to have been born a proper soul (is that the correct term), with a body and mind to command it, there have been times I've longed for a release from this mortal coil. To be reunited with the comrades I've lost, or simply to wake from this unending nightmare. Of course, I've responsibilities now, as Hetman, and more than a few doubts as to were I will end up when I embark on my final voyage, but a part of me stills yearns for an undisturbed rest. To want nothing more than death is not a goal I find common amongst leaders, though I suppose for those in Kira's position, it must be enticing, if difficult to achieve. But again, we are both leaders, with certain responsibilities, and I am encouraged by the fact that Kira seems to have grown into his position, as I have. Gods, if I didn't need to sleep... a part of me thinks I may simply go mad, though I do see how eliminating that need would be useful for a sullen bureaucrat. I also sympathise with the recent lull in activity in 'hell's waiting room'. A mind is blade, and one must use it frequently to keep it sharp, though I suppose the suspicion that something is in the works may do that nicely, if it is a bit disquieting. I suppose what is true in the mortal realm is so in the land of the dead - men are always plotting. Though again, I do find it both amusing and understandable that Kira prays for death, we are leaders. It is our responsibility to look after our people, whether or not we truly desire our positions. As a leader, I do respect much of what Kira stands for. My... foster father was fond of saying that 'a man is nought but the sum of his choices', nothing more, nothing less. Before we stand before the gods and await their judgment, all we can do is what we do, and pray that Great Sol understands. I am also no fan of playing the tyrant - again, it is the responsibility of the people to live an honourable life, not the state to enforce a strict code of conduct. If it is one's duty to keep the people happy, the best route is to pay them well and leave them to their own devices. This talk of supernatural abilities is also interesting, though I feel as though there is something lost. My passion has landed me in hot water more than once, but without it I feel my life would be a lot less interesting. Both love and hate are powerful motivators, and without them, I understand why Kira feels adrift, and purposless... I would say depressed though I wonder if his limited range permits him to feel such things. Though a part of me wonders if that is not for the best, I think I will keep my rage and wrath and passion. I feel I would be nothing without it." - His Senior Grace Ladislav Yarov, Hetman of the Host, Prince-Regent of Sarmatia

[Aphrilia]

"His Senior Grace Ladislav Yarov. There is quite a lot to talk about the man, and yet it is difficult for me to formulate the words I desire to use in regards to him. In my nation, and world to an extent, the tale of seeing a God and being told that you are on some sort of grand mission of liberation is merely just that. A fairytale, and one that has happened before here. But those who followed that notion in my world were defeated at a high cost. Yet you, sir, seem to prove your tale true. The desire for revenge, being wanted for treason, starting a revolution where you won! It commands respect, to say the least. Even if I personally disagree with many things in what you believe in part of the political side, you seem to be a great man... But! While your revolution a success and a tyranny, it seems, overthrown, the fact that 62 billion lives were lost is mind boggling to me. Ladislav Yarov, you may say that is the cost of war, but for me as a ruler in a world where the population is less than 500 million, it forever changes how I see things.

But let's talk further about yourself, no? The fact that you wield this sort of magic is... Fascinating to me. You are on track to become a God-Killer, and that alone is terrifying enough. As someone who has lived for centuries, back then, we barely had a decent understanding of what a planet was. But now knowing what happens in the stars thank to our, admittedly primal technology compared to yours, the potential that you may in the future make a star go supernova... It is a horrifying prospect to us. But I suppose that is normal to you, thus I won't judge. And not only your excellency in battle as a soldier, but also as a leader. I never served in my nation's military, and I am more than willing to admit that it does seem shameful compared to many other nations where their rulers served in their own military forces. But that is largely because only one war I have seen, a war my grandmother forbade me from participating in as a soldier even if I wished to do so. There is not much else for me to say in regards to you.

In short, while your political views differ from mine and while I may not command the respect and honor as a monarch in comparison to many others who have achieved much greater heights compared to me, considering I am called with a title as renowned as The Sovereign nonetheless, you are a man that does command respect, and my respect you have, even if it means nothing much in the grander scale of your world."

- Evangeline Odonaghue III, The Sovereign of Aphrilia

[Sky Reavers]

"Dudes! Lemme' make this official statement! I really, really like that ornate and gold armchair! I mean, it gotta be very soft and comfortable and it's also awesome lookin'! And now, let's speak of it's owner - Evangeline Audrey Odonaghue III, da' Soverign of Aphrilia, who's family was disgraced, cuz her granny liked and married a dragondude... Well, that's why I love Sky Reavers, cuz back here, ya' can marry whoever the hell ya' want as long as he is adult and no one gonna bat an eye and no one gonna abuse ya' for being a dragani or something or lack of sophistication... We just ride together in solidarity and shoot rich baddies, like slavers and dictators full of lead and loot them! As far as I heared, she still preferes a less sophisticated approach and outfits. Just like me, a dude who wears his bandshirt and lighter pieces of combat gear in peacetime. Or a full light combat gear when ridin' to battle. She may say, that she is pro-authoritarianism, and cares for civil rights. Surprisingly, it's not a paradox. Totalitarianism and authoritarianism got different meanings, with the latter being just opposition to mostly political freedoms, while the former is about total oppression. We still prefere republicanism to monarchism, as it's more egalitarian, but... That doesn't mean, that we can't have good diplomatic ties and relations with monarchs. In fact, we can and practice this... And we gonna try exactly that Aphrilia."-Overboss Liam Navarro

[Rosartemis]

"SERAPHINA on NAVARRO" My, my, look who's graced us with their presence – none other than Navarro, the famed Overboss of the Sky Reavers. The Lion's roared plenty about you, I've heard all about his disdain for you and your oh-so-enlightened ideals. But fear not, dear Navarro, I'm not cut from the same cloth as that embittered commander. There's quite the crowd surrounding you, isn't there? But let's not get carried away. You're really quite pedestrian, aren't you? Perhaps the highlight of your existence was wrestling with terrorists, but beyond that, you're just another run-of-the-mill leader, boring and mediocre. Let's compare, shall we? Your leadership, a patchwork of half-hearted policies and spineless compromises, pales in comparison to my own. While you dabble in half-baked initiatives, I strive for true progress, seeking solutions that challenge the status quo and inspire real change. Let's not even get started on your feeble attempts at philosophy. Freedom at home and abroad, with a pinch of traditional recklessness? How naive. It's like watching a child play dress-up, pretending to be something they're not, all swagger and no substance. Your spineless approach to governance is as uninspired as it is ineffective. It's as if you believe that by uttering a few platitudes, you can absolve yourself of any responsibility for the mess you've made. But let me tell you something, Navarro, freedom without accountability is nothing more than an illusion. But hey, who am I to judge? After all, the masses seem to adore you. Perhaps there's something to be said for pandering to the lowest common denominator. However, remember this, "Overboss", history is a harsh mistress, and she does not suffer fools lightly. Your time in the spotlight may be now, but it won't last forever. And when the dust settles and the crowds disperse, you'll be left alone and with nothing. That old senile fool, the Lion, may be a hard head sometimes, but there is something I agree with him, and it's that leaders like you – all flash and no fire – are a dime a dozen. You parade around with your cybernetic arm and your tales of daring exploits, but when it comes down to it, you're just another mediocre politician clinging desperately to power. Yes, the Lion may snarl and growl at you, Navarro, but me? I'm just here for the show – and oh, what a show it promises to be! Progenti Archonate of the Eternal Covenant Seraphina Calloway

hey yall, its Ionaris, I'm back on this thread I suppose.

RESOURCES FOR ROSARTEMIS and the ARCHONATE:
THE NATION: https://www.nationstates.net/page=dispatch/id=1954264
LEADERS: https://www.nationstates.net/page=dispatch/id=1979655
(View on PC)
Don't do any low-effort one-liner please!

Tiberius Valerius Maximus, known far and wide as "The Lion of Ithaka," casts his looming shadow over Ionaris as the Prefect of the Emperor's formidable Praetorian Guard. This towering figure commands the empire's unparalleled military force, the Praetorian Guard, and his storied history as a decorated war hero precedes him. His role as the Emperor's unquestionable enforcer has earned him the symbolic moniker of the "left hand," a label steeped in the somber undertones of judgment often found in biblical narratives. Seated as the empire's third-in-command, his status hovers just beneath that of the Primus Magister, the lofty title of the Grand Commander of the Legions.

The very principles that define Ionaris, a dark tapestry woven from doctrines like slavery, execution, indoctrination, expansionism, and militarism, owe their inception to both the Emperor and the indomitable Lion. This strategist, unwavering in his approach, steers the Praetorian Guard with an iron grip, bearing the weight of countless lives subjected to his rule and the aftermath of his choices. An impervious autocrat, his dominion is unchallenged, his reign an epitome of power.

Within the annals of the Lion's reign lie tales of tyranny, dark actions that have solidified his notorious legacy. The crushing suppression of the Solecian Uprising stands as a stark reminder of his ruthlessness, where communities were left in ruins and dissent was extinguished without mercy.

Yet, even beneath his despotic exterior, the Lion's leadership remains unassailably effective. He himself led the charge of the Praetorian Guard against the rival nation of Granada, leaving behind a trail of devastation and hopelessness. The subsequent absorption of Granada's lands, cruelly dubbed "Femto," bears testament to his unrelenting ambition and insatiable lust for power. The title "Lion" encapsulates not only his cutthroat nature but also his distinction as the most celebrated commander within the empire's ranks.

Much like the chorus of obedient loyalists in the empire's echelons, Tiberius clings fanatically to his belief in the Emperor, a devotion bordering on the cultish. His loyalty knows no bounds, and his unwavering allegiance is an exemplar of his unflinching commitment to the emperor's cause..

Hadria Messenio Vala, a puppeteer in the shadows, a spider spinning webs of manipulation in the grand theater of Ionaris' politics. A figure of calculated intrigue, he thrives within the labyrinthine corridors of power as the Count of the Sacred Langresses, a title that belies the complexity of his role as a mastermind of the empire's economic machinery.

Vala, a maestro of fiscal deception, dances upon the precipice of bankruptcy and debt, luring millions into his intricate schemes with a siren's song of prosperity. His mind, sharp as a blade, carves a path through the intricacies of finance, leaving in its wake a trail of financial ruin for those unfortunate enough to be entangled in his wake. His reputation as a puppeteer is earned, his maneuvers veiled in subtlety, yet the devastation they bring is crystal clear.

Behind the curtain, Vala's influence stretches like a shadow, touching every corner of Ionaris' economic tapestry. His orchestration of financial machinations paints him as a conductor of a malevolent symphony, one that leads the unsuspecting into a crescendo of ruin. His manipulations are a weapon, a scalpel that cuts through economic landscapes with precision, often inflicting collateral damage without remorse.

Cold and calculating, Vala's loyalties remain as elusive as smoke, shifting like sand dunes in the wind. His purpose, however, is unwavering: to enhance his own power and tighten the emperor's grip on the empire. The means he employs, devoid of the brute force wielded by his counterparts, are no less effective. A true master of his craft, he thrives in the realm of uncertainty, exploiting every opportunity to elevate his stature.

And while Tiberius introduced slavery, Vala refined it into a monstrous mechanism, rendering citizens as nothing more than cogs in his economic engine. The Infirnum, a creation of his malevolent ingenuity, stands as a testament to his ruthlessness, a dumping ground for the expendable souls who dare to disrupt his machinations. To Vala, they are nothing more than liabilities to be discarded.

As history's tapestry unfurls, Vala's influence will continue to be the invisible hand that shapes Ionaris' trajectory. His legacy, a trail of economic devastation, will be etched into the annals of time, a testament to the power of manipulation in the hands of a shrewd and heartless tactician. In the grand mosaic of Ionaris, Vala's dark brushstrokes will forever leave their mark, a reminder that even in the world of shadows, one man's cunning can alter the course of nations..

"The Innominatus," an entity shrouded in a cloak of enigma and terror, holds the Iron Throne of Ionaris with a grip of absolute tyranny. Far beyond any conventional measure of cruelty, he is a figure of unparalleled ruthlessness and dominance. Despite his inscrutable existence, he wields an influence that extends like a malignant force across the empire, casting a shadow that taints every corner of Ionaris.

His name resonates as a whisper in the hearts of the populace, a name whispered in fear and dread. His presence is not seen, his visage remains a mystery, but his power is felt in every decree, every command, and every act of brutality that emanates from his regime. Even those who dare to question his dominion find themselves ensnared in a web of intrigue and terror, as his tendrils of control spread insidiously through the veins of Ionaris' institutions.

The Lion and the Precursor, the privileged few who have glimpsed his enigmatic form, serve as his vessels of authority, carrying out his directives with unwavering devotion. It is said that the very air trembles when his name is spoken, that the empire itself bends to his will, and that all actions, no matter how grand or minor, are but extensions of his insidious design.

To the populace, he is a specter of fear, a figure who transcends the boundaries of mortal comprehension. His reign is an era of dread, where loyalty is born not out of admiration, but out of a desperate need for survival. The empire bows to his power, while its people are held captive by the fear of retribution should they defy his commands.

He is no god, no deity to be worshipped. He is the embodiment of tyranny, an emperor who rules not with benevolence, but with the cold calculus of power. His influence stretches far beyond the gaze of ordinary citizens, his grip reaching into the very hearts and minds of those who shape the empire's destiny.

In the heart of darkness, he reigns, dictating every facet of Ionaris' existence. His legacy is not one of glory or adoration, but of oppression and terror. He is "The Innominatus," the Unnamed, the Unknown, an emperor who exists beyond the realm of understanding, a force of malevolence that casts its shadow over all who call Ionaris home.

So Far:
"The Lion" Tiberius Valerius Maximus
Liam Navarro - Absolute hatred
Dragonwrath - Reluctant respect
John J. Jameson - Absolute hatred
Cala Azzakrat - Absolute respect
Getaway - Absolute disgust
Andrew Ryan - Neutral-leaning respect
John Mercer - Disdain
Cala Zepyhron - Contempt

"The Regrator" Hadria Messenio Vala
Lyaksandro Yarov - Suspicion, negative
Deprex Michael Sindar - Disgust? Fascination?
Nefertari - Slight respect
Liha the Great - Absolute hatred

"The Emperor" The Innominatus
Viktor Stormkav - Undying, unmeasurable hatred
Kaiser Metcalfer - Hate, dissapointment
Nexus Ravenworth - Amusement, contempt, basically sees them as delusional

Progenti Archonate Seraphina
Liam Navarro - Amusement, slight disdain

[Rosartemis]

Bump.