Recent Posts

Pages: 1 [2] 3 4 ... 10
11
Factbooks and Maps / Re: Kingdom of Renaku
« Last post by Renaku on March 27, 2024, 12:04:08 PM »
CULTURE - Not yet completed

Anyone studying Renaku culture will see two very different but connected cultures. The nations folk religion teaches that there are Gods of various natural events and places such as the Gods of the Forest, River, Sky etc. Each of these Gods helps maintain the order of the world in addition to having specific duties and tasks, for example there are several sky Gods. One is responsible for ensuring that the clouds which bring rain are formed while another maintains the stars which are said to be dwelling places of families who have pleased the Gods. While people of the "Plains" and the "Hill-Tribes" both follow these beliefs there has developed two very different cultures because of the geography of their existence

ROLE OF GENDER

Both cultures however focus on the concept of the genders having different "spheres". Both men and women are deemed equal but have seperate responsibilities, many more liberal nations may find these concepts "old fashioned" for example it is considered the role of men in both cultures to be the protector and provider of the family. Meanwhile the woman is expected to be the carer of the family. This has extended far beyond family homes. For example only men may inherit the throne or become leaders of tribes. Women however are still respected and the voice of the Queen and female elders still carries a great deal of weight within their societies. This has seen some shifts within government with certain ministerial roles being given to women, for example the Minister of Health has been held by a female for the past 20 years as it oversees domains considered within the female sphere.

Currently no women may serve in the armed forces except for in the role as a nurse. There exists a seperate military system for women who do wish to serve called the Queen's Household Regiment. This Regiment carries out largely administration and medical duties and weapons handling is only covered in much less detail than male counterparts.

ART

Art was seen as a way of capturing and showing the power of the Gods. As such much of Renaku art is inspired by religion. It is not uncommon to find many historic paintins or statues showing majestic looking Gods in some for of nature. Any art work relating to the Gods is deemed an act of worship as it shows devotion to the deity, this however is a double edged sword as any offensive image of the Gods is seen as heresy and likely to cause deep offence.

MUSIC

DANCE

THEATRE/FILM/TV

SPORT

CUISINE

FESTIVALS

FASHION
12
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« Last post by Achkaerin on March 26, 2024, 10:27:11 PM »
"I prefer the kick to the groin area." Rion said "Works wonders." looking down at the man disguised the inner workings of her mind, they had Seagull, Groves was contained and Stanley was under arrest. That just left Rowe, in one respect it was a good thing they'd managed to isolate him but as far as the bigger picture went an isolated Rowe remained just as dangerous and just as capable of fulfilling his part in this conspiracy. Time was something they were now running out of, whatever move that was intended to bring Mieko Anselmo back to Rokkenjima had to be made soon and Rion knew that not only did she know that but so did Alex Rowe, this was still a fair way from being over.


"If I may." Liosa said "Rowe isn't the immediate concern, there are very qualified people dealing with that and they're more than capable of handling it. Your focus needs to be on what's coming up. Your aunt Kyoko has taken action on the legitimacy of the Addendum to the Sakura Umeko Accord, I've not had the chance to take a detailed look at it because I haven't found an office yet but from what the lawyers are telling me, I think it has a reasonable chance of being successful. If that happens then there are good and bad consequences." she took a breath "There's a legal reckoning coming for the likes of Alex Rowe, that will need to be navigated, that's what I'm here for, the diplomatic fallout from this... that's your ballgame."


Peter's next stop was Pyrena, likely people would view this as him visiting Beatrice as her biological father but he wasn't here for her well not directly. No he was here for something else, walking the castle's halls he chuckled when he spied Beatrice and Lucinda sat there, when Beatrice looked up in his direction he waved "May I borrow her for a moment?" he asked indicating Lucinda.
13
Sporting Hub / Re: Mundus Cycling Cup 2024
« Last post by paralipomena on March 26, 2024, 09:21:02 PM »

Albrektberg Classic 2024
(Men's)

1 - Kazushi Eto (Hachinobu Suisei) 6:23:50
2 - Heinrich Müller (SV Meergesellen) + 00:00
3 - Paul Johnstone (Tolsenn-Lark) + 00:00
4 - Andrew Mason (Phoenix Cycling) + 00:00
5 - Lars Aaltonen (AABL-Ujredi) + 00:14
6 - Karl Sturmwald (SV Meergesellen) + 00:31
7 - Shalva Kvachantiradze (MKTkom) + 01:24
8 - Walden Gjeldnes (AABL-Ujredi) + 01:42
9 - Daisaku Fujimoto (Hachinobu Suisei) + 02:05
10 - Eddie Chevere (Tolsenn-Lark) + 02:09
11 - Paul Newcombe (Phoenix Cycling) + 02:10
12 - Kalevi Tammivaara (MKTkom)  + 02:29
13 - Ramaz Gamkrelidze (MKTkom) + 02:31
14 - Levan Chabradze (MKTkom) + 02:39
15 - Friedrich Wagner (SV Meergesellen) + 05:16
16 - Asketyll Omdahl (MKTkom) + 05:18
17 - Kimmo Peltonen (AABL-Ujredi) + 05:26
18 - Graham Donnelly (Tolsenn-Lark) + 05:30
19 - Abrus McGlathery (Tolsenn-Lark) + 07:20
20 - Mainio Salminen (AABL-Ujredi) + 07:35



Albrektberg Classic 2024
(Women's)

1 - Misato Futagawa (Higanbana) 3:32:29
2 - Katerina Shvets (Pelagiya-Semelberg) + 00:00
3 - Tsuneko Hijikata (Higanbana) + 00:00
4 - Tirelle Quaite (Westbay) + 00:00
5 - Isabelle Triefstein (Gamsbärte 1890) + 00:00
6 - Hadewynda Salonen (Kommuna Ladies) + 00:06
7 - Eter Dzindzichasvili (MKTkom)  + 00:09
8 - Lenza Sverdrup (Kommuna Ladies) + 00:10
9 - Eveliina Makela (MKTkom) + 00:11
10 - Fryda Andersen (Kommuna Ladies) + 00:12
11 - Darja Pasternak (Pelagiya-Semelberg) + 00:15
12 - Sammy Lawson  (Phoenix Cycling) + 00:17
13 - Veronika Chayka (Kommuna Ladies) + 00:20
14 - Nanami Esashika (Higanbana) + 00:21
15 - Praskoyya Mikhailov (Pelagiya-Semelberg) + 00:23
16 - Maria Cairns (Phoenix Cycling) + 00:31
17 - Emma Asserssen (MKTkom) + 00:46
18 - Lidochka Fyodorov (Pelagiya-Semelberg) + 00:47
19 - Lucretia Cardea (AureaTerra) + 00:49
20 - Cecily Dynara (Westbay) + 01:17



Mundus Cycling Cup - Overall Standings

Men's Mundus Cycling Cup - Individual classification

1 - Andrew Mason (Phoenix Cycling) - 67 points
2 - Abrus McGlathery (Tolsenn-Lark) - 66 points
3 - Eddie Chevere (Tolsenn-Lark) - 45 points
4 - Heinrich Müller (SV Meersegellen) - 40 points
5 - Hakaru Akiyama (Hachinobu Suisei) - 35 points
6 - Paul Johnstone (Tolsenn-Lark) - 34 points
7 - Kazushi Eto (Hachinobu Suisei) - 27 points
8 - Germund Strand (AABL-Ujredi) - 24 points
9 - Kalevi Tammivaara (MKTkom) - 19  points
10 - Lars Aaltonen (AABL-Ujredi) - 14 points


Men's Mundus Cycling Cup - Team classification

1 - Tolsenn-Lark - 145 points
2 - Phoenix Cycling - 91 points
3 - AABL-Ujredi - 70 points
4 - SV Meergesellen - 68 points
5 - Hachinobu Seisei - 65 points


Women's Mundus Cycling Cup - Individual classification

1 - Katerina Shvets (Pelagiya-Semelberg) - 79 points
2 - Misato Futagawa (Higanbana) - 68 points
3 - Tsuneko Hijikata (Higanbana) - 58 points
4 - Tirelle Quaite (Westbay) - 56 points
5 - Hadewynda Salonen (Kommuna Ladies) - 28 points
6 - Natela Iludidze (MKTkom) - 25 points
7 - Eveliina Makela (MKTkom) - 18 points
8 - Eter Dzindzichasvili (MKTkom) - 17 points
9 - Darja Pasternak (Pelagiya-Semelberg) - 17 points
10 - Maria Cairns (Phoenix  Cycling) - 16 points
                                       

Women's Mundus Cycling Cup - Team classification

1 - Higanbana - 131 points
2 - Pelagiya-Semelberg - 104 points
3 - MKTkom - 62 points
4 - Westbay - 60 points
5 - Kommuna Ladies - 57 points


14
Vignettes / Re: Asadal Playhouse
« Last post by paralipomena on March 26, 2024, 06:37:18 PM »
Heavenly Palace, Hwangjin



Grand King Wonhyo awaints in the Throne Hall in the Heavenly Palace. Along him, there is merely Prince Yun. Two guards bring Choe Yak-yong in, who slowly enters in handcuffs. Choe Yak-yong, a scholar and monk, is rather wearing regular and old clothing. As he enters, lost in his own thoughts, he is forced to kneel and bow, something he does without opposition.



Choe Yak-yong: Your Grand Majesty, I would not have imagined to have the honour to be here in the present circumstances.

Grand King Wonhyo: It is, indeed, unpleasant the circumstance that causes your visit.

Choe Yak-yong: Excuse me, Your Grand Majesty. Could you free my hands? I understand your concerns, and all those around you, giving the ominous and despicable precedent, but an old man like myself can not be considered as a serious threat, if you allow me such petition.

Grand King Wonhyo: You're right. Proceed as he asked.

Grand Royal Guards: Yes, Your Grand Majesty.

Choe Yak-yong: Thank you, Your Grand Majesty. My body is weak and therefore I can't think clearly as they seem to stop the circulation.

Grand King Wonhyo: It is, of course, a moment in which many here would argue that giving time and space to scholars to think is something that may bring more evil than good.

Choe Yak-yong: I would disagree with that assertion,  Your Grand Majesty. I have always suggested that the source of evil is not found in the mind, but in the passions.

Grand King Wonhyo: I am aware of that. I have not forgotten it. But I wonder if you remember it, of course.

Choe Yak-yong: I am afraid I don't follow you, Your Grand Majesty.

Grand King Wonhyo: It has been a long time, of course, maybe close to two decades already. I was much younger, of course, but despite my memories are still somehow dizzy these days, I remember clearly those days in Seongji.

Choe Yak-yong: It can't be possible! Excuse me, Your Grand Majesty, I ignored it. I can hardly imagine...

Grand King Wonhyo: Don't worry, my existence was much simple in those days. But let's not to look back in the past.

Choe Yak-yong: I suppose that I should be grateful that the heaven granted me to have distinguished students without my own knowledge.

Grand King Wonhyo: Yes, I did not imagine that I would be sat down here today as well, to be honest. And you were in a better standing back them.

Choe Yak-yong: I would say that my standing did not change since I left these palace, many years ago. Until very recently by such sad events. I apologize for not being able to recognize you, Your Grand Majesty.

Grand King Wonhyo: Why did not you join the Council of Seven?

Choe Yak-yong: I am not interested in power, Your Grand Majesty. While a ruler must be interested in wisdom, it is not recommendable for a scholar to become a ruler. I left the place as I was not interested to become a stranger or a dissonant voice. Such person can only become an enemy and I did not wish to become one to some of those who I had respected for a long time, even if they chose a wrong path.

Grand King Wonhyo: This, of course, doesn't surprise me and it is what I had imagined. However, I can understand it has not helped your case.

Choe Yak-yong: I am well aware of that, Your Grand Majesty. I understand that it would not be wise to ask Your Grand Majesty to intercede. However, I would ask to consider the circumstances, and these men are hardly men who are involved in worldly affairs, and they reacted poorly under a heavy pressure. A punishment would be unavoidable, of course, but if I would be asked I suggest one that brings order and obedience, not tension or fear. Regarding those who were involved in the execution of such unwise plans, justice should be implemented without mercy.

Grand King Wonhyo: As you said, a punishment is duly when some of the worst crimes are encouraged and carried out. One could argue that those who are involved with the meaning of ideas and morality than those poor subjects who are moved by their passions too often. In any case, it would not be wise for me to be involved personally in the affairs of justice. My duty should be protect justice rather than administering, as much as that is possible. Unless there is some need for correction.

Choe Yak-yong: I understand, Your Grand Majesty. It is a decision that I would advice, if it was humanely possible, of course.

Grand King Wonhyo: For now, my curiosity was satisfied. You can retire.

Choe Yak-yong: I hope you are not wrong, Your Grand Majesty.

Grand King Wonhyo: I hope as well.



15
Economics and Industry / Re: Daitōjin Ground Forces Equipment Catalogue
« Last post by Daitō on March 25, 2024, 11:48:58 PM »
T65 155mm Howitzer
RoleTowed Howitzer
ManufacturerZayasu Heavy Industries
Crew7 + 1
Weight4,200 kg
Length10.7 m
Barrel Length5.08 m
Shell:Various
Caliber155mm
Effective Firing RangeT97: 21 km
T670: 30 km
Kusanagi: 40 km
Other CapabilitiesVariants:
   T65S2 - Block 1A software upgrade. Addition of an Enhanced Portable Inductive Artillery Fuze Setter (EPIAFS) to enable Kusanagi and and precision munition compatibility.
   T65ER - Upgrade created by the Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) project to extend range from 30 to 70 km.
Ammunition:
   T97 - 155mm High Explosive round
   T301S1 - 155mm High Explosive Rocket Assisted (HERA) Projectile
   T774 - 155mm Cannon-Launched Guided Projectile
   T796 - 155mm High Explosive Projectile
   T670 - 155mm High Explosive Extended Range Full Bore Projectile
   T840 Kusanagi - 155mm Extended Range Guided Projectile
Cost$2.025 million
BackgroundThe T65 howitzer is a towed 155mm artillery piece in the howitzer class. First seeing combat in the Second Kalasin War, the T65 first entered service in 2005 with the Imperial Fusanese Army, replacing the older T38. The T65 is capable of firing a wide array of shells, most notably the T840 Kusanagi, an extended range guided projectile with an effective range of 40 kilometers and a theoretical maximum range of 70. While it is capable of being operated by just five people, in most situations, it will be crewed instead by eight.
16
Economics and Industry / Re: Daitōjin Ground Forces Equipment Catalogue
« Last post by Daitō on March 25, 2024, 11:34:16 PM »
T49 105mm Howitzer
RoleTowed field gun
ManufacturerZayasu Heavy Industries
Crew5 - 7
Weight2,320 kg
Length4.85 m
Barrel Length3.2 m
Shell:Various
Caliber105mm
Effective Firing Range17.5 km
Other CapabilitiesCapable of being dropped via parachute
Cost$1.9 million
BackgroundThe T49 is a 105 mm howitzer used by the Imperial Fusanese Army and Marines. A licensed copy of a foreign design, the T49, owing to its design, is intended to be towed to its firing positions by another vehicle, most commonly the Uma, and can be easily airlifted by helicopter, or airdropped by parachute.
17
International News Networks / Re: Northfort News
« Last post by DaveIronside on March 25, 2024, 07:15:48 PM »




PRINCESS DEMANDS "CHIP ACT" KING KIND OF AGREES

A trip to a fast food restaurant is used by many parents as a reward for school success, good behaviour or a whole host of different reasons. The royal family is no different and with Princess Rhiannon recently scoring 100% in a school History test a trip to KFC was planned by her father. The trip however has sparked calls from the Princess for a change in legislation. The 11 year old Princess took a photo of her chips and posted it, with her father's permission, to Twitter with the caption "I work hard to get 100% but get 25% of the chips. Not fair. Dad needs to pass a law demanding better chip ratio" KFC later posted that the Princess was correct and that there should be more chips in a serving and would "remind our outlets of our standards." The incident was also referenced by the King himself when he visited the People's Council for an introduction of a proposed new law. The King spoke on what will be known as the "Microchip Security Act 2024" saying. "When I came here today I was under a great deal of pressure to put before you a very different chip act and while my daughter may be interested in the potato based ones I am much more concerned about the silicone ones but we both agree there needs to be more of them." The King went on to explain. "We've been amazed to see over the last decade that our nation has established ourselves as a leading high tech manufacturer and that requires microchips and other components. It is my intention that we will look to ensure that we have a reliable and secure supply of the required components. It is my intention that this law will make it a requirement that the Royal East Moreland Mineral Company (REMMC) be maintained in order to acquire the raw materials to manufacturer the components that we need , be that extracting them directly or by acquiring things such as mines or mining licences overseas. The nation will then maintain a set stockpile as a failsafe in case the need requires. So much of national security is now about cyber space and online that we must be as diligent securing it as we are the rest of our lands."

The People's Council seemed responsive to the proposal with Lucas Blakeslee, the Chief Councillor, saying "The act seems sensible and will promote our nations security, interests and economy. It will have my support in principle but naturally this is the first introduction of the proposal and we know that there will be many debates, discussions and meeting before any formal proposal is put before us for our advice." The Chief Councillor also spoke out on the Princess' proposal saying, "I would vote in favour of Princess Rhiannons proposal of course. I would also suggest that a trip to Annie's Burger Shack gives a much better chip to burger ratio."

Princess Rhiannon is due to head to Portworth for a week during the school holiday which begins on Friday. She is due to spend time with her mother Matilda Osman and has spoken of her excitement about learning to kite-surf. Restaurants across the Portworth region are keeping extra chips on standby.
18
Diplomacy and Events / To The Point of It
« Last post by Renaku on March 25, 2024, 01:36:14 PM »
Dear Mr. Maxwell Power

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Vizier Burhanettin Tiryaki and I represent the King of Renaku. As you may be aware the young King has just inherited the throne and will shortly begin what is known as the Yüce Yürüyüşü, which would be translated as the "Noble Walk". Every new King travels to the fifty largest hill tribes and walks into their village to be greeted by the people. There he accepts the oath of loyalty from the Chief and in return presents them with a valuable gift as a reward for that loyalty. His Majesty has determined that as the tribesman view themselves as proud warriors he would like to present swords and knowing the respect Morelanders have for swordsmanship and the swordsmiths craft he would be interested in comissioning a Morelander to make these blades. As you are the blade maker for the East Moreland royal family I can therefore think of no finer craftsman on Mundus as to make these blades. If this is a task that you are interested in undertaking we would be delighted to have you come visit Renaku and begin the work, for which we will ensure you are handsomely rewarded. We are hopeful that you will accept our request and look forward to welcoming you to Renaku soon.

Deepest Respects
Burhanettin Tiryaki
Grand Vizier of the Renaku Royal Family.
19
International News Networks / Re: Juglander Review
« Last post by paralipomena on March 25, 2024, 12:22:25 PM »

Juglander Review

Mktvartvelo: National Assembly passes tax reform



The National Assembly passed the Fair Taxation Act, proposed by the national government, by a 357-241 vote.

The legislation will reduce corporate taxation to a 20% from the current 29% while further establishing a progressive income taxation to up to a maximum rate of 51%. The reform also involves the replacement of the existing sale tax by a value added tax with a rate of 20% for most goods and services, with only a few exemptions.

Prime Minister Brdzeni Kvirkvelia described the legislation as "a fairer and simple taxation, aimed to improve economic growth and modernizing as well as strengthen the state".

Silamaze Arsenidze, Minister of the Treasury, is confident that the legislation will advance without opposition in the Council of State so it can immediately become law in the Unitary State of Mktvartvelo. "We have aimed to advance a law which is both fairer and helps to increase economic growth for all sectors of the economy". Arsenidze declared that her ministry will be focused right now to advance a national budget in the coming weeks. "A balanced budget and a modern economy are required to advance in more social programs and improved services", she declared.


20
Vignettes / Re: Mktvartvelo: Blood, Soul, and Power
« Last post by paralipomena on March 25, 2024, 10:41:18 AM »
Shoreuli Sakhli Palace, Ktsatskuri


"Your Most High Majesty", Eka Chkhartishvili said as she encountered the Brzdmtsveli in the wide gardens of the palace.

"Eka!", Ketevan exclaimed. "I'm glad to finally see you face to face once again".

"It is always a pleasure", Eka replied. "I had never imagined I'd walk through these garden in such circumstances".

"Neither I did!", Ketevan replied. "Would you like to have anything?", she asked.

"No, thank you", Eka answered. "I come from a business lunch, and I had enough".

"Yes, I imagine you have been busy lately", Ketevan replied.

"Indeed, indeed", Eka replied with a smile. "This whole situation has postponed some of our plans. I hope that, fortunately, it is only an isolated incident".

"It is likely the third time I was most solicited since I move here", Ketevan replied. "As the other times, it was difficult to say where their intentions and hopes were really at".

"Yes, of course", Eka said. "One should judge advice as much as actions. No, I do no think it is wise for you to be involved, even less in this context. Everything is uncertain, and once you do a move, it will be difficult to go back. No, it is better to take a distance".

"I feel that is sincere because that is something you seemed good at", Ketevan replied with a wry expression.

"Maybe", Eka replied with a smile. "I heard your daughters were in Azavrelia".

"Indeed", Ketevan replied. "I'm not glad about it, but I felt they would have a calm that they will not have here, even when they are really left out of all the daily business. And it will be a great chance for them, after all".

"Certainly", Eka replied, "they couldn't complain of the chance you have given then. I heard that Marlena is in charge of the school now. How times passes!".

"Indeed", Ketevan said with a smile, as she looked back in her mind to some decades back. She had just joined as a teacher in my last year there. Even so, she was still something different to the other teachers".

"I imagine it would have been much more amusing to meet her when she was barely experienced, indeed", Eka replied. "Anyway, you can't complain. My father would could only dream about us being there without paying a penny!".

"Come on! It was your mother who paid it", Ketevan replied.

"Indeed, indeed", Eka replied. "But he always took seriously his role".

"As it should be", Ketevan quickly replied. "How is he nowadays?".

"He is fine of course", Eka answered. "He is, of course, a bit spiritless since he retired. I feel he got used to that frenzied lifestyle. But he's healthy enough and it's only a matter of time he gets used to it".

"Glad to hear", Ketevan replied. "Let's continue inside", she added. "I always feel the urge of a tea at this time of the day".

"Excellent", Eka added, nodding and following the Brzdmtsveli.



Pages: 1 [2] 3 4 ... 10