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Topics - Tytor

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1
Conference Hall / Proposal for a Constitutional Amendment
« on: April 29, 2022, 09:14:29 PM »
In light of the ongoing controversy being pursued by some members of this community in regard to appointments to the Order of the Pen, and in light of certain shortcomings I feel that the organization has, I am proposing the following amendment to the 2022 Constitution.  As I am ignorant of any officially required format, I will simply list my proposed changes and additions below in bold:

1. Under "The Chancellery", section i) shall be amended as follows: "Inducting (and removing when inactive or when otherwise advised) members of the Order of the Pen upon instruction of the Order."

2. Under "Order of the Pen", the current paragraph shall be amended as follows: "- this is a non authority role, it is available to all players and is granted for contribution to Roleplay, Gameplay, and/or regional government.  It is formally awarded and revoked by the Grand Chancellor on the instruction of existing members of this order."

3. Under "Order of the Pen", the following paragraphs shall be added after the present one (as amended):

"- Instruction by the Order of the Pen shall be considered legitimate if (a) a proposal for induction of new members or revocation of existing titles is presented to the general membership of the Order of the Pen, (b) at least seven (7) days elapse for debate thereof by the general membership of the Order of the Pen, (c) at least two (2) days elapse for vote by the general membership of the Order of the Pen and a majority of voters approve the instruction, and (d) formal notice of the vote is delivered in writing by a chosen representative of the Order of the Pen to the office of the Grand Chancellor.

"- The Order of the Pen shall have leave to govern its own internal affairs, aside from the aforementioned process for inductions or expulsions, including leadership, oaths of office, and any other procedures or regulations the Order of the Pen shall determine is necessary.

"- All individuals who hold titles of nobility at the time that this article comes into effect shall be inducted automatically into the Order of the Pen, without further action being necessary either on their part or on the part of the Grand Chancellor.  In the event that the Order of the Pen finds itself without active membership, as determined by the Grand Chancellor and confirmed by the Lord Chief Justice, the Grand Chancellor shall be empowered to make any inductions as they consider necessary, without being required to follow the process herein indicated for instruction by the Order of the Pen.  This article shall be considered to apply retroactively to any inductions performed by the Grand Chancellor between the approval of the constitution and the adoption of this amendment."

I hope that these measures may be found acceptable and that we can stop with these attempts to tear the Independent Order apart over petty grievances.

2
HTMS Monarch, Sea of Kyne
February 4, 2022
12:15 PM, local time


Lieutenant Colonel Frank Gerry went through the preflight checklist for his Tri-Star AR-12 Thrush three times before firing up the engines.  He'd done the same with his full-body flight suit (or space suit, as those in the know tended to call it) before heading out to his aircraft.  Gerry might be a lieutenant colonel in the Royal Air Force, but today he was flying as an agent in the Royal Intelligence Service.  In fact, that was about the only excuse for an airman like him to be aboard the carrier HTMS Monarch in the first place.  Technically, his plane was an AR-12N Sea Thrush, the cold war-era spy plane's naval variant.  Being carrier-capable meant the Sea Thrush could be deployed farther afield than the larger and more modern, but land-dependent, AR-12S.  Fortunately, this mission should be just fine with the older AR-12N.  Gerry checked his instruments one more time and flipped on the radio.  "Tower," he said, "This is Mockingbird 1 requesting clearance for takeoff, over."

"Roger, Mockingbird 1," came the reply, "You are cleared for takeoff.  Good hunting, over."

"Appreciated, Tower," Gerry said, "Commencing takeoff.  Over and out."

Takeoff went rather smoothly.  As always, the steam catapult was a little rough, but that was to be expected.  Gerry quickly ascended to a cruising altitude of 70,000 feet, and struck out for Centralia.





New Eastland City, New Eastland
Federal Republic of Centralia
February 4, 2022
2:35 PM, local time


Nehemiah Godfrey, Pastor of the Lord's Resistance Army and aspiring ruler of all Centralia, gazed upon the bombed-out shell that once was Grant Tower, one of the most important buildings of New Eastland City's war-ravaged financial district.  Grant Tower had been the headquarters of Centralia's largest bank, Phineas Grant and Sons.  PGS was one of the primary bankrollers of the Centralian Federal Army, and now... now the bulk of its reserves had been captured by the LRA.  Godfrey smiled grimly.  With PGS's former wealth now in his hands, he could start looking abroad for aid - purchase propaganda broadcasts, reach out to sympathetic governments, and buy better weapons off the global black market.  And with New Eastland in his hands, he had a port from which to receive any such goods.  In fact, the best part of the fall of New Eastland had to be the capture of the cruiser FNS Catawba and the destroyer FNS Roundrock.  Sure, they were both pretty old, and the Federal Navy still had more ships, but it was a start.

Godfrey remained transfixed by the smoldering ruin for a little longer, then turned to a lieutenant standing just behind him.  "All right, Todd," he said, "It's time."  And indeed it was.  Time to finish the redemption of this people.  Time to establish legitimacy in the eyes of the world.  Time to open the next phase of his crusade against the godless bureaucrats of New Providence.  And time to film a declaration to the world, announcing the establishment of the Federal Republic's successor as the lawful government of all Centralia.

A distant motion caught his attention, and he looked up into the sky.  There, far, far above the great city, was a solitary black airplane.  Perhaps a lost airliner?  Or, less benignly... perhaps even a government reconnaissance flight?  No matter.  The LRA's positions in the city were dug in and well hidden.  No, the LRA was not going to be pushed out of New Eastland easily, if at all, regardless of how many aerial pictures that blasted government in New Providence took.  Godfrey smiled again.  Now, on to the film studio.

All was well.





Philipsburgh, Mazeltovia
Federal Republic of Centralia
February 4, 2022
6:30 PM, local time


The Insurgent-in-Chief.  That's what everyone had called him for ages.  It had been his codename for as long as the Communist Party had been forced underground.  It wasn't his real name, of course; just imagine having to walk around your local high school with a name like "Insurgent".  No, his real name was John Browder.  When he wasn't skulking around between underground meetings (or, for that matter, leading a revolution against the current government of Centralia), he was Mr. Browder, a grocer who ran a small shop in central Philipsburgh.  He'd been a Mazeltovia resident most of his life, except for a brief internship in New Providence when he was in college.  Browder was rather older these days, and he'd been fighting the good fight for decades.

The sunset wasn't visible from where Browder was standing, but the clouds overhead were varying shades of pink and orange.  He pondered the symbolic significance of it all.  The sun was setting on the Federal Republic, and soon a glorious red dawn would rise over all of Centralia.  Surely it would.  And Comrade Browder would be there to lead the way into the future.

His People's Liberation Army controlled parts of several southern states, and all of Mazeltovia.  Perhaps tonight, Browder would record an address declaring the establishment of the Federal Republic's legal replacement.  And then... who knew what the future would bring?





OOC: This thread is intended to consolidate related storylines associated with Centralia's civil war.  Anybody is welcome to get involved; I ask, though, that anyone who does remembers that not everything we as roleplayers know is known by the general public, or even by the different actors in this conflict.  If there's any confusion regarding what is or is not public knowledge, please feel free to DM me here on the forum or ping me on the TIO Discord server.  If there is sufficient call for it, I will set up an OOC thread.

3
Fiction / For Want of a Nail
« on: May 28, 2021, 06:17:43 AM »
This thread is the beginning of something a little different.  I've been developing an alternate history scenario set in a world where the Axis Powers emerged victorious in World War II, leading to a completely different Cold War.  This will be a series of vignettes and news articles focused on various events taking place in this alternate world.

This post, of course, will serve as an index.



Wet - 27 Dec 1958
Darkest Before Dawn - 27 Dec 1958
National Pride - 31 Dec 1958
Gunfire - 2 Mar 1985
Live and Let Die - 27 Jun 1973
Winds of Change? - 19 Aug 1991
Ring of Fire - 13 Jun 1975
Bulldog of the Lord - 6 Apr 1963
Not With a Bang, But a Whimper - 25 Dec 1991
The World Turned Upside Down - 7 Aug 1974
Quagmire - 15 Jan 1968
The Winter of Our Discontent - 13 Feb 1965
One False Step - 20 Feb 1965

4
Vignettes / Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory
« on: May 23, 2021, 04:53:14 AM »
Part 1

Ashboro, New Jordan
Federal Republic of Centralia
May 16, 2021 - 9:53 AM


"...And as the Good Lord says, we are to turn the other cheek.  What does it profit us to gain revenge, satisfaction, or even - as the Lord asks - the whole world, and yet lose our souls?  He who sits on high does so because He is good, omniscient, and omnipotent.  He rules over all Creation because He created it.  We poor mortals who dwell here below do so only because He wills it.  He asks so little of us in return that it is hardly permissible for us to ignore His commands.  Let us remember the Lord for His goodness and praise Him forever.  Amen."

Nehemiah Godfrey finished his sermon and stepped back from the pulpit of the Ashboro Evangelical Christian Church's vast auditorium, arms outstretched over his head in a great "V" shape.  It was a good crowd; from his vantage point on the stage, Godfrey couldn't see any empty seat in the house, and the hall could hold almost ten thousand worshippers.  Add in the television cameras dotted around the building... well, he'd have to ask his ratings manager to know for sure, but he was confident this Sunday's sermon had reached a total audience of several million.  A nod from the sound technician off to the side of the stage told him the microphone attached to his lapel had been switched off, and he lowered his hands.  One benediction by a junior member of his clergy later, and he bounded offstage to his left.

"Well?" he barked at the ratings manager once he was safely out of earshot of the crowd that was filing out of the church.

"Preliminary reports say that this broadcast reached a little over seven million Centralians," the other man said, "You were brilliant, sir."

"Of course I was," Godfrey said dismissively, "Get me the exact numbers pronto.  And don't forget to include any foreign numbers, too.  Last week you forgot."

"Of course, sir," the ratings manager said, bowing himself out of the backstage foyer.

Nehemiah Godfrey was a household name all over Centralia.  Probably the finest televangelist who ever lived, if his staff was to be believed, Godfrey had been the pastor of Ashboro Evangelical for over two decades, but the cash kept flowing.  Godfrey was a big man - six foot seven, easily three hundred and fifty pounds, and built almost like a sumo wrestler - and he could command a stage without a second thought.  His charisma under the bright spotlight of the stage was as powerful as his bald head was shiny.  His following was especially strong in the northern part of the country, and he knew for a fact that old Lance Pullman, the Homeland Security Secretary, had referred to him on multiple occasions as "the most dangerous man in Centralia".  Godfrey was flattered, but he knew better than to take that seriously.  If his sources were to be believed, Pullman had far more dangerous enemies than a simple backwoods preacher, no matter how rich that preacher might be.  Godfrey chuckled to himself as he found his way to his office.  He settled his bulk into the chair behind the desk and closed his eyes for just a moment.  Preaching the Word to the world was hard work...

He awakened just over two hours later to a pounding on the door.  That was odd; his staff knew better than to treat the church's doors with such disrespect.  He got up, straightened his brilliant white suit, adjusted his bolo tie, and went to open the door.  Standing there, fist raised as if to give the door another pounding, was what was unmistakably once of Lance Pullman's goons: an officer with the Criminal Justice Bureau.

"You Nehemiah Godfrey?" the officer demanded.

"Who else would I be?" Godfrey responded coldly, "Tell me, what do you think you're doing in my church?"

5
Diplomacy and Events / The Tsargrad-Pyrettania Line
« on: February 14, 2021, 09:39:32 PM »
<BEGINNING OF MESSAGE>

Testing... testing...
1, 2, 3... 1, 2, 3...

The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog...


This is a test of the Tsargrad-Pyrettania Diplomatic Hotline, inaugurated this day, Sunday, February 14th, 2021, at 2:39 PM, West Albion Standard Time (1:39 PM, Ardian Standard Time).

Please acknowledge receipt of this communication.

<END OF MESSAGE>

6
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...




Just Another Blue Milk Run
A Star Wars Legends RP

A shadow has fallen across the galaxy.  For sixteen years, the
GALACTIC EMPIRE has ruled trillions of beings with an iron fist.
Resistance movements have formed, fought, and failed, as the
Empire continues to consolidate its grasp on power.

Through the efforts of the INQUISITORIUS, the Empire's most
deadly enforcers, the Jedi Order, guardians of the old Republic,
have been driven to virtual extinction.  One by one, remaining
vestiges of the Republic are being swept away.

In this atmosphere of oppression, some scattered bright spots
of relative freedom remain, though even there the Empire's
spies are always present.  On one of these, NAR SHADDAA, a
small group of unlikely heroes congregates...





For a spaceport watering hole, the Cluster was very run down.  Granted, this being Nar Shaddaa, this was pretty much par for the course.  The main bar stank of alcohol and other intoxicants, and the noise level was a fairly typical dull roar.  The patrons weren't much better; sentients from almost every line of work, legitimate or otherwise, milled about, nursing drinks and generally looking as shady as they behaved.  It was into this den of thieves that Tien Thun walked, synthleather jacket gleaming, DL-18 blaster pistol displayed prominently on his hip.  The Nikto bouncer grunted at him as he entered the establishment, his droid, Threebie, following close behind.

«Cantina + patrons = potentially dangerous // Tien = sure cantina safe?» Threebie whistled at Tien.

"Yes, Threebie," Tien replied, amused, "I'm sure the cantina is safe."

«Threebie = worried // Tien = worried too?» Threebie whistled again, clearly not satisfied.

"No, I'm not," Tien said, "Stop worrying so much.  I've been here loads of times; you know that."

Threebie didn't respond, which Tien took to mean that she'd at least begrudgingly accepted his reassurances for the time being.  Of course, the almost neurotic little droid was bound to start worrying again real soon.  Smiling to himself at the eccentricities of his mechanical companion, Tien selected a recently vacated table, sat down, and waved over a battered old serving droid so as to order a Corellian ale.  As he nursed his drink, he watched the crowd, picking out a couple of Humans who looked somehow out of the ordinary.  Each appeared to be part of that hazily-defined underclass of hired guns, but at the same time there was something... different... about them.  Tien couldn't quite put his finger on it.

No matter.  Tien took another sip of ale and let his mind start to wander.

7
Just Another Blue Milk Run
A Star Wars Legends RP

It is three years before the Battle of Yavin.  The Galactic Empire has ruled the galaxy for over a decade and a half, clamping down on dissent from the Core Worlds to the Outer Rim.  The few Jedi still living have gone to ground.  Scattered resistance movements have found themselves facing an uphill battle, struggling alone against an enemy with seemingly limitless resources.  Our story opens on Nar Shaddaa, the Smugglers' Moon, deep in the heart of Hutt Space.  Here, far from the effective jurisdiction of Imperial enforcers, but nonetheless within reach of the Empire's many spies, a motley collection of unlikely heroes congregates at one of the moon's seedier watering holes...

Just Another Blue Milk Run is set in the Legends continuity, the old expanded universe discarded by Lucasfilm on April 24, 2014.  The story takes place during the rise of the Empire, shortly before the creation of the Rebel Alliance and the true beginning of the Galactic Civil War.  Thanks to Order 66 and the sixteen years of Imperial rule since then, Jedi are scarce in the galaxy; though Nar Shaddaa may seem like the perfect place to lay low, I don't think it is realistic for more than one or maybe two Jedi to exist on the entire moon.  In addition, due to the time period (the year is 3 BBY), races that are known or believed to be extinct (such as the Rakata or the Killiks), or which have not been discovered yet (such as the Ewoks or the Nagai), should not be included.  Finally, as this is the Legends continuity, references to things in the new canon that conflict with the established setting are discouraged, though if you want to include references that don't conflict, I won't stop you -- for instance, the existence of Jakku does not conflict, while the new canon's description of Imperial-era Taris does.

To sign up, fill out the form below.  Once we have a sufficient number of characters, I'll post my own character and we'll get started.
Code: (Application) [Select]
[b]Name:[/b] What is your character called?  No Solos, Organas, or Skywalkers, please.
[b]Race:[/b] To what species does your character belong?
[b]Age:[/b] How old is your character? Be realistic.
[b]Homeworld:[/b] From what planet does your character hail?
[b]Occupation:[/b] What is your character's job?
[b]Force Sensitivity:[/b] Is your character attuned to the Force?  If yes, most Force sensitives will not be aware of this.
[b]Biography:[/b] Tell us about your character.
[b]Image (optional):[/b] What does your character look like?

8
Diplomacy and Events / Old Friends (Tytor & Rokkenjima)
« on: September 18, 2020, 06:12:19 AM »
February 21, 2020

The flight across the southern Kyne to Rokkenjima was smooth and uneventful.  King Michael had decided to make the journey incognito, which meant that there had been no media coverage of his departure, and that he had made the flight in an outwardly nondescript private jet.  The private airstrip at which the jet landed was similarly devoid of press, and the diplomatic car the Tytorian consulate in Dunwich had provided was similarly unmarked.  A brief interaction with a pair of Rokkenjiman customs officials later, and he was on his way.  The final leg of the journey was equally uneventful, which suited the Tytorian monarch just fine.  Michael figured that he would likely be something of a recluse if it weren't for his crown.

The aging king adjusted his wire-rimmed spectacles as the driver announced their arrival at Shizukesa Palace.  He'd been so deeply lost in thought that he hadn't noticed the approach, though he'd heard that the view was magnificent.  The driver parked the car, and Michael murmured his thanks as he disembarked.  The staff at the palace had been alerted of his impending arrival, or at least he assumed so; after all, he'd made sure to clear his trip with Pyrena Castle before setting out, so the message was likely to have made it through.  Sure enough, as he strode toward the main doors, a palace aide materialized to escort him inside; in other settings, perhaps there would have been a full honor guard, suited to visiting royalty, but Michael preferred it this way, especially now.  Pomp and circumstance had its place, but this was not it.

The palace itself struck Michael as rather less grand than might have been expected for a retired empress, but on reflection, he decided that really made sense too.  After all the grief she had already been put through, coupled with the trouble she was likely to be called upon to endure in the near future, a quiet piece of the countryside was probably exactly what Beatrice needed right now.  Michael grimaced slightly at the thought and pushed it aside.  There'd be plenty of time for that nonsense later.  Right now, he was here for his friend.

Michael hadn't really taken in much of the palace by the time he was ushered into the room where the now-former empress was waiting.  "Your Majesty," he began almost automatically in English.  He stopped himself, thought better of it, and started again in slightly rusty Rokkenjiman, "Beatrice.  I came as soon as I could.  When I heard of your diagnosis, I was stunned.  Of the two of us, I always thought that surely I would be the one to fall ill first.  I never imagined..."  He broke off, momentarily overwhelmed with emotion, and held out his hand.  "Oh, Beatrice," he said at last, "You're still so young.  This must be so hard for you."

9
Convention Centre / Tarrenburg Castle Summit - OOC Thread
« on: June 11, 2020, 12:05:30 AM »
As it's been requested, so it comes into being.  Have at it, y'all.

This thread is for OOC discussions regarding the Tarrenburg Castle Summit.  Off-topic discussion will be met with mild disapproval.

For reference, the original draft charter:
Spoiler: Charter Inside • show
[quote=Draft Charter][center]A Charter for a League of Nations
Adopted on this the [##]th day of June, AD 2020[/center]

Preamble:

We the undersigned representatives of the united Nations and Peoples of Mundus, in order to further the cause of World Peace, promote Justice, secure Equality on the Global Stage, and show our commitment to the Betterment of Humankind, do here and now establish this Charter for a League of Nations, that generations to come may find that we acted in the interest of all.

Chapter I - Goals and Definitions

Article 1: This Charter hereby establishes a league of nations, to be named the [name to be decided] and herein called the League.

Article 2: The purposes of the League are (1) to maintain peace in the world; (2) to secure and develop amicable relations between its Members; (3) to achieve international cooperation toward the continued advancement of better conditions for humankind; and (4) to act as a force for international harmony in pursuit of these ends.

Article 3: Pursuant to the purposes laid out in the preceding article, each Member of the League shall commit (1) to treat as equal all other nations, whether Members of the League or not; (2) to fulfill in good faith all obligations entered into through this Charter and any subsidiary treaties which may follow; (3) to settle international disputes by peaceful means; and (4) avoid to the best of their ability the use or threat of force against other nations.

Article 4: Pursuant to the purposes laid out in Article 2 of this Charter, the League shall take appropriate action within the confines of this Charter to ensure the maintenance of peace in the worldwide community.

Article 5: The League shall have no authority over the internal affairs of its Members beyond what is (a) explicitly granted under the terms of this Charter or (b) surrendered voluntarily by any individual Member.

Chapter II - Membership

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter III - Organs

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter IV - The General Assembly

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter V - The Security Council (OOC note: Can be easily excluded, if that is the consensus.  I feel this one would be best decided OOC.)

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter VI - The Secretariat (OOC note: See note for Chapter V.)

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter VII - Arbitration

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter VIII - Peacekeeping

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter IX - Miscellaneous Provisions

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter X - Amendment Process

Articles herein contained: [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

Chapter XI - Ratification

Article #: This Charter shall come into force upon its ratification by a majority of its signatory nations.

Article #: The manner in which a signatory nation ratifies this Charter shall be left to the individual nation in question to decide.

Article #: Once this Charter has come into force, it shall remain in force until such time as it is repealed or replaced; any such repeal or replacement shall be initiated though resolution by the General Assembly [and/or Security Council].

Postscript and Signatures

We the undersigned representatives of the united Nations and Peoples of Mundus hereby declare our commitment to causes espoused in the document above, pledging ourselves to the maintenance thereof as long as we have the ability.

Signed,
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________[/quote]
Code: [Select]
[quote=Draft Charter][center][size=20pt][u]A Charter for a League of Nations[/u][/size]
Adopted on this the [##]th day of June, AD 2020[/center]

[b][u]Preamble:[/u][/b]

[i]We[/i] the undersigned representatives of the united Nations and Peoples of Mundus, in order to further the cause of World Peace, promote Justice, secure Equality on the Global Stage, and show our commitment to the Betterment of Humankind, do here and now establish this Charter for a League of Nations, that generations to come may find that we acted in the interest of all.

[b][u]Chapter I - Goals and Definitions[/u][/b]

[i]Article 1:[/i] This Charter hereby establishes a league of nations, to be named the [name to be decided] and herein called the League.

[i]Article 2:[/i] The purposes of the League are (1) to maintain peace in the world; (2) to secure and develop amicable relations between its Members; (3) to achieve international cooperation toward the continued advancement of better conditions for humankind; and (4) to act as a force for international harmony in pursuit of these ends.

[i]Article 3:[/i] Pursuant to the purposes laid out in the preceding article, each Member of the League shall commit (1) to treat as equal all other nations, whether Members of the League or not; (2) to fulfill in good faith all obligations entered into through this Charter and any subsidiary treaties which may follow; (3) to settle international disputes by peaceful means; and (4) avoid to the best of their ability the use or threat of force against other nations.

[i]Article 4:[/i] Pursuant to the purposes laid out in Article 2 of this Charter, the League shall take appropriate action within the confines of this Charter to ensure the maintenance of peace in the worldwide community.

[i]Article 5:[/i] The League shall have no authority over the internal affairs of its Members beyond what is (a) explicitly granted under the terms of this Charter or (b) surrendered voluntarily by any individual Member.

[b][u]Chapter II - Membership[/u][/b]

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter III - Organs[/u][/b]

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter IV - The General Assembly[/u][/b]

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter V - The Security Council[/u][/b] (OOC note: Can be easily excluded, if that is the consensus.  I feel this one would be best decided OOC.)

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter VI - The Secretariat[/u][/b] (OOC note: See note for Chapter V.)

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter VII - Arbitration[/u][/b]

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter VIII - Peacekeeping[/u][/b]

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter IX - Miscellaneous Provisions[/u][/b]

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter X - Amendment Process[/u][/b]

[i]Articles herein contained:[/i] [To be determined by discussion among delegates at the Tarrenburg Castle Summit]

[b][u]Chapter XI - Ratification[/u][/b]

[i]Article #:[/i] This Charter shall come into force upon its ratification by a majority of its signatory nations.

[i]Article #:[/i] The manner in which a signatory nation ratifies this Charter shall be left to the individual nation in question to decide.

[i]Article #:[/i] Once this Charter has come into force, it shall remain in force until such time as it is repealed or replaced; any such repeal or replacement shall be initiated though resolution by the General Assembly [and/or Security Council].

[b][u]Postscript and Signatures[/u][/b]

[i]We[/i] the undersigned representatives of the united Nations and Peoples of Mundus hereby declare our commitment to causes espoused in the document above, pledging ourselves to the maintenance thereof as long as we have the ability.

[i]Signed,[/i]
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________
___________, on behalf of ___________[/quote]

10
The Kingdom of Tytor
Office of the Prime Minister

To: Ambassador Justine R. S. Velter

Dear madam,

This message serves as a formal request for your presence at the office of Prime Minister Madeline Thatcher at the Houses of Parliament at your earliest convenience.  The Prime Minister wishes to discuss recent developments in the bilateral relations existing between the Kingdom of Tytor and the Heyran Republic.  Please be prepared to devote up to an hour of your time to this discussion.

Regards,

-Morris Bligh, Secretary





Prime Minister Thatcher was busy with some paperwork when her intercom buzzed.  "The Heyran ambassador is here, as requested," her secretary's voice said, "Shall I send her in?"

"Please do, Morris," she said.  She moved the paperwork aside and stood up right before the door opened.

11
Convention Centre / Tarrenburg Castle Summit
« on: June 01, 2020, 08:54:09 PM »
The Kingdom of Tytor
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
CTO Office

To: Nations and International Organizations of Mundus
Attn: Members of the CTO, CMA


Pursuant to the goals of CTO General Assembly Resolution #0024, it is my responsibility and pleasure to extend a formal invitation to the world's nations to attend a summit to be held Tarrenburg Castle, Tarrenburg, East Crownlands, Tytor, on Monday, June 8, 2020.  This summit is intended to address the shortcomings of Mundus's various international organizations, particularly those designed to promote international unity and world peace.  The primary topic of discussion will be the future of the Commonwealth Treaty Organization and, if its members agree to attend, the Cross Mundus Agency, along with the present redundancy in purpose of the two bodies.  It is the expressed hope of the General Assembly of the CTO that a solution may be found that will promote the overarching goals of both within the context of the modern world.

Attending representatives are requested to arrive at Tarrenburg Castle by 9:30 AM, WAST, on Monday, June 8, 2020.  Upon arrival, representatives will be directed to the castle's South Ballroom, where the summit will take place.  The summit will commence at 10:00 AM, with a full luncheon provided at or shortly after 12:00 PM, depending on the state of the discussion at that point.  Light refreshments will be available upon request during the deliberations.  The summit is expected to conclude by 6:00 PM, whereupon representatives are invited to enjoy a dinner hosted by His Majesty King Michael I of Tytor.  If the need arises for additional days of deliberation, accomodations can be found in the surrounding city of Tarrenburg.  Schedules for subsequent days will be provided upon completion of Day 1 of the summit.

On behalf of the elected government of Tytor and the General Assembly of the CTO, I wish to express my hope that this summit will be met with enthusiasm by those attending, and that it will find success in meeting its goals for increased international cooperation and the maintenance of world peace.

Signed,
Blake Stevenson, Tytorian Representative to the CTO

Countersigned,
Sir Gregory Major, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Madeline Thatcher, Prime Minister

12
Character Guides / Notable Individuals in the Kingdom of Tytor
« on: February 18, 2020, 11:49:48 PM »
Figured it was about time I created one of these.  This will be something of a work in progress or a long time.

This post will serve the purpose of an index.



King Michael I de Tarrenburg
Prince George de Tarrenburg
Lady Elizabeth Warner
Princess Elizabeth de Tarrenburg
Prince Edward de Tarrenburg
Prince James de Tarrenburg
Prince Charles de Tarrenburg
Lady Theresa Hales
Prince Harold de Tarrenburg

13
Non Fiction / Mundus Pronunciation Guide
« on: February 15, 2020, 01:48:59 AM »
Now for something completely different.

I have long found myself wondering how others pronounce the names of their nations.  Since we don't generally have audio of the names unique to Mundus being spoken aloud, I feel that a formal pronunciation guide is in order.  Accordingly, I have created this thread with the idea that we can all contribute with how we pronounce the names we use, both on a national level and on more local ones.  These can be taken as the generally accepted pronunciations of these words as spoken by locals.  Bonus points if pronunciation is different between English and whatever language is dominant in the country.

I shall begin.



All pronunciations are in English unless otherwise noted.

Tytor: TIE-tore
Tytorian: tie-TORE-ee-un
Tytoric: tie-TORE-ick
Tsargrad: ZAR-grad (rhymes with "dad")
Williamshaven: WILL-ee-ums-hay-vin
Tarrenburg: TARE-in-burg
Aquilae: AH-kwi-lay
Decapolis: dih-KAP-uh-lis (alternatively day-KAP-uh-lis)

Ubakasa: oo-buh-KAH-suh
Ubakasan: oo-buh-KAH-sun
Kalabuto: kal-uh-BOO-toe
Mwangi: MWAHN-gee
Mauxi: MAUK-see (first vowel-sound rhymes with "how")

Centralia: sin-TRAIL-ee-uh (rhymes with "Australia")
Centralian: sin-TRAIL-ee-un
Mazeltovia: mazz-ul-TOVE-yuh
(Additional Centralian pronunciations to be added later.)

14
Vignettes / One Nation, Under Watch
« on: January 25, 2020, 06:50:10 AM »
Part 1

New Providence, FCD
Federal Republic of Centralia
January 24, 2020 - 11:30 AM


The alleyway looked completely deserted.  Of course it did; this was uptown New Providence, the heart of a residential neighborhood.  The authorities didn't like it when people congregated in alleyways, so the cops made regular sweeps every few days.  The streets were kept mostly free of such ordinary fixtures as gangs, panhandlers, and pickpockets, but many of the city's citizens half wished that they weren't.  The "security" of Centralian society had come at the cost of much of the nation's liberty and privacy, to the point that raids by Homeland Security and the police had become more or less the norm, and everyone knew someone who'd been arrested for something.  Matt glanced over his shoulder as he and Parker stepped into the narrow space.  He couldn't help it, really; the neighborhood was almost too tidy for comfort.  Still, this was where Parker's contact in Anonymous had said to meet, and Parker insisted on not going alone.

"Think he's here, Parker?" Matt asked tentatively.

"'Course he's here, Grasshopper," Parker said in what he clearly intended to be a casual tone, "He wouldn't just bail on us."

Matt thought Parker sounded almost like he was trying to convince himself more than anyone, but he thought it prudent not to point this out just now.  "Well, I guess he's good at hiding, then," he said instead.

"Must be," Parker replied, a bit more worry showing through his facade.

The pair continued down the alley, pausing every few steps or so to check for cops and the like.  Matt started to wonder whether Parker even knew what his contact looked like; after all, the two had originally met online.  Just as he was gathering the courage to ask, however, they passed a trash can and someone or something hissed at them.

Parker whirled around.  "Who's-?" he started to say loudly.

Matt turned too, though more slowly.  There, behind the trash can, was a young woman.  She looked no more than a year or two older than Parker.  She gestured frantically for the pair to get down.

"Are you, um, LazerMuffin?" Parker asked uncertainly.

"Yes," the girl answered in hushed tones, "And you must be HeroOfRagnarok.  I expected you to be taller."

Parker grinned.  "I'm Parker," he said, "My friends call me Stingray."  Matt hastily turned a derisive snort into a coughing fit; after all, Parker's friends never called him Stingray.

"Charity," the girl replied, extending a hand.  Parker shook it.

"Charmed," Matt said dryly, "Now, could we get on with this?"

"Of course," Charity said, suddenly businesslike, "So, Parker.  You told me that you and your friends successfully pulled off a heist at Homeland Security, right?  You got proof?"

"Naturally," Parker said easily, "Wouldn't be here otherwise, now would I?"

"That remains to be seen," Charity commented, "And this proof is where, exactly?"

"Right here on this flash drive," Parker said, holding it up for all to see.  He was grinning as if he couldn't have said a wittier thing.

"Well, put it away, idiot," Charity hissed at him, looking for all the world like a bird with ruffled feathers.  Parker's grin faded.

"Sorry," he said, pocketing the flash drive quickly.

"If here isn't safe," Matt interrupted, "Maybe we should talk somewhere more, you know, private.  Do you have a safe house or something?"

"Yeah, something like that," Charity said, getting to her feet, "I'll take you there.  Did you drive?"

"We're parked down the street a ways," Matt said, waving in the general direction of their borrowed car.

"Great," Charity said, "Lead the way."

15
Fiction IC / The Christmas Revolution
« on: December 25, 2019, 03:13:34 PM »
People's Square, Tsargrad
December 24, 2019
6:55 PM


Samuel Harrison gazed at the line of soldiers standing between the protesters and the Central Administration Building.  They looked cold.  Of course, everybody looked cold, especially with the frigid rain coming down on all involved in this standoff.  The protesters had been in the square since the 18th, and they didn't intend to be going anywhere anytime soon.  They were demanding a change in government, something Tytor hadn't had in nearly a century.

The Tytorian People's Republic had been established back in the 1920s at the instigation of such revolutionary icons as Wallis and Smith.  A short-lived insurrection by Granger in the '40s had failed to do much more than break Floodwater away from the rest of the country, and the Party's domination of Tytorian society had, by now, long passed its 90th year.  At long last, however, the people were taking things into their own hands; student demonstrations beginning in September had given way to larger protests attended by thousands of Tytorian citizens.  The hardliners, in control of the government since the August coup, had thus far remained seemingly impervious to this mass criticism, even with international pressure from the likes of Dartfordia and Rokkenjima.

It suddenly occured to Samuel that most of the Christian world celebrated this day as Christmas Eve.  Honestly, most of those present were probably aware of the same thing, despite the fact that it hadn't been celebrated publicly since 1924.  Tytor was officially atheistic, after all.  This realization was almost something of an epiphany, though, and Samuel's next action was almost a reflex.

He started singing.

"Silent night!  Holy night..."

A few of the protesters around him looked puzzled for a split-second, but then joined in.

"...All is calm, all is bright..."

More protesters started joining in as well, and the volume of the singing began to increase.

"...Round yon virgin mother and Child..."

The soldiers started looking uncomfortable.  A few exchanged glances.

"...Holy Infant, so tender and mild..."

Samuel could see some of the protesters starting to tear up, but the sound of music continued to grow.

"...Sleep in heavenly peace..."

Lights began coming on in nearby houses and apartments as previously apathetic citizens started gaining interest.

"...Sleep in heavenly peace."

There was a slight hesitation as the first verse ended, but then a strong baritone voice from somewhere in the back resumed the song.

"Silent night!  Holy night..."

It took almost no time at all for the rest of the crowd to come back in, stronger than before.

"...Shepherds quake at the sight..."

Now there were citizens standing in doorways, craning their necks to watch, and even starting to sing as well.

"...Glories stream from heaven afar..."

A few soldiers started to relax a bit, rifles dropping from their ready positions.

"...Heav'nly hosts sing Alleluia..."

By this point, few if any spectators had not yet joined the singing, which rang through the cold December air with ever-increasing strength.

"...Christ, the Savior, is born..."

Samuel could even see tears in the eyes of the nearest soldiers, and he could tell that it was taking all their willpower to keep from joining in.

"...Christ, the Savior, is born!"

This time, there was no pause between verses, with volume and sheer joy increasing with each syllable.

"Silent night!  Holy night..."

Now Samuel could sense practically the entire city behind every syllable.

"...Son of God, love's pure light..."

Samuel's own voice cracked as he felt emotion welling up in his heart.

"...Radiant beams from Thy holy face..."

One of the soldiers dropped his rifle, tears streaming down his face; the gun made a loud noise on the cobblestones and then lay still.

"...With the dawn of redeeming grace..."

A few more guns began to fall to the ground, their owners refusing orders to pick them back up.

"...Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth..."

Despite the growing disorganization of the soldiers in front of them, the crowd made no move to push forward.

"...Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth."

As the song concluded, an intensely peaceful feeling washed over Samuel.  He knew in that instant that everything would be okay.  Freedom would prevail at last in Tytor.

Of that, at least, he was quite certain.

16
OOC Socialisation / The Twelve Days of (TIO) Christmas
« on: December 24, 2019, 06:29:45 AM »
This is my take on the Twelve Days of Christmas, TIO style.  Suggestions and comments are more than welcome.

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me
A honey badger in a pear tree.

On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Six Bakkermayan treaties,
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the seventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Seven Rokkenjiman warheads,
Six Bakkermayan treaties,
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the eighth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Eight Achkaerinese athletes,
Seven Rokkenjiman warheads,
Six Bakkermayan treaties,
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the ninth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Nine Lodjain frigates,
Eight Achkaerinese athletes,
Seven Rokkenjiman warheads,
Six Bakkermayan treaties,
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the tenth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Ten Dragonaii bunkers,
Nine Lodjain frigates,
Eight Achkaerinese athletes,
Seven Rokkenjiman warheads,
Six Bakkermayan treaties,
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Eleven Tytorian terrorists,
Ten Dragonaii bunkers,
Nine Lodjain frigates,
Eight Achkaerinese athletes,
Seven Rokkenjiman warheads,
Six Bakkermayan treaties,
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,
And a honey badger in a pear tree.

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
Twelve Quinntopian vodkas,
Eleven Tytorian terrorists,
Ten Dragonaii bunkers,
Nine Lodjain frigates,
Eight Achkaerinese athletes,
Seven Rokkenjiman warheads,
Six Bakkermayan treaties,
Five Tamoran slaves,
Four Dartfordian trains,
Three Heyran lawyers,
Two New Derusmian jets,

And a honey badger in a pear tree.

17
International News Networks / Centralian National Television (CNTV)
« on: August 10, 2019, 10:03:36 PM »
CNTV®
Centralian National Television




Homeland Security Department Announces New Safety Measures

NEW PROVIDENCE -- Homeland Security Secretary Lance Pullman gave a press statement this morning announcing several changes to DHS policy in response to a shooting at the Innsmouth Zoological Park in Innsmouth, New Haven, on Monday.  These changes include, among other things, a six-month moratorium on firearm sales nationwide with strengthened background checks on such sales thereafter; increased police security measures at such tourist attractions and public accommodations as museums, zoos, airports, train stations, and government buildings; and heightened restrictions on civilian internet usage.  In announcing these changes, a full list of which can be found online at the Homeland Security Department's website, www.dhs.gov.cn, Secretary Pullman gave the following explanation.  "This is a time of tragedy," he said, "This is a time which calls for national introspection.  This is a time of fear, of anger, and of sadness.  As a nation, we have a responsibility to ensure that terror attacks of this scope do not happen again.  Accordingly, we at the Department of Homeland Security have determined that certain measures must be put in place for the public good.  I assure you that these actions are not being taken lightly; if those of us who have been entrusted with your safety were not absolutely certain that these measures were absolutely necessary, then they would absolutely not be under consideration, let alone facing implementation."  While it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in preventing future shootings, government officials seem highly optimistic regarding them.  When contacted for comment, President Tanner's office said simply that "good things are coming".

18
TV Shows / One on One
« on: August 09, 2019, 09:48:06 PM »
One on One®
with Will Fowler



One on One, hosted by senior reporter Will Fowler, is a TBS news program broadcast on Wednesday afternoons, generally featuring live interviews with various Tytorian politicians and celebrities, though international personalities appear on occasion as well.  I'll be reposting One on One's interview with Prince Harold de Tarrenburg shortly to show the intended post format, and then I'll be using this post as an index of particular interviews.  Subsequently, anyone who wants to have a character appear on One on One should contact me to arrange the interview.


List of Past Shows:
6/12/2019 - Harold de Tarrenburg, Tytor
8/14/2019 - Prince Regent Albrecht, Neu Uburzis
4/22/2020 - Akasha Di-'nh-mi-Re, Clysperis

19
Non Fiction / Presidents of the Federal Republic of Centralia
« on: June 29, 2019, 07:04:41 AM »
This thread is intended to fill in some of Centralia's history by going over each of the country's (to date) thirty-one presidents.  The information herein portrayed will be written from an IC perspective, and is the text of an appendix to a Centralian history textbook published last year.

This post will serve as an index.

1. George Morris (1835-1847)
2. Richard Adams (1847-1855)
3. Israel Partridge (1855-1862)
4. James Taylor (1862-1863)
5. Michael Adams (1863-1867)
6. John E. Harrison (1867-1871)
7. William J. Patterson (1871-1879)
8. Isaac Whipple (1879-1881)
9. Edmund C. Garfield (1881-1887)
10. Gregory Hayes (1887-1895)
11. James A. Mann (1895-1901)
12. Philander C. Polk (1901-1907)
13. Charles Carter (1907-1915)
14. George M. Turner (1915-1919)
15. Edward G. Warren (1919-1924)
16. Herbert Brown (1924-1927)
17. Harris Johnson (1927-1930)
18. Jacob Whittington (1930-1931)
19. John A. Marsh (1931-1935)
20. T. W. Knox (1935-1947)
21. Andrew Prescott (1947-1951)
22. Henry J. Dionne (1951-1959)
23. Ben Garner (1959-1963)
24. Henry J. Dionne (1963-1967)
25. Thomas R. Green (1967-1975)
26. James Stewart (1975-1982)
27. Matthew Hunter (1982-1987)
28. Alexander Dole (1987-1991)
29. Michael Harper (1991-1999)
30. Lee Hampton (1999-2010)
31. Jim Tanner (2010-present)

20
Vignettes / Trojan Horse
« on: June 29, 2019, 06:05:27 AM »
Part 1

New Providence, FCD
Federal Republic of Centralia
April 30, 2019 - 7:00 AM


The clock radio turned on, right on schedule.  The voice that issued from it was that of an excited-sounding young man.  "Good morning, New Providence!" it said, "I'm Dan Beesley, and this is KWZM, Big 100.6, broadcasting to you live from the nation's capital.  With me today is my friend and associate, Brett Sanders, who will be helping out with this year's edition of the Countdown to Summer.  We'll be kicking that off this fine morning with one of my personal favorites, which also happens to be one of Centralia's greatest hits.  That's right; today we're starting off with Hotel Caledonia, the most popular song ever released by the Seagulls, who are in turn the greatest band to emerge from the 1970s!  So, without further ado, here is Hotel Cal--"

The radio shut off as Matt Wilson's hand finally found the snooze button.  He groaned, then rolled out of bed.  The dingy apartment he shared with his friends was quiet, and mostly still dark.  Soft snoring from the bunkbed across the small bedroom told him that Michael was still fast asleep; Matt's alarm probably hadn't even disturbed his dreams.

The light was on in the tiny kitchen as he slowly and groggily made his way to  the bathroom.  As he'd suspected, Parker was sitting at the table, methodically polishing off a bowl of cereal.  Kale, of course, was already gone, headed by bike to New Providence University, where he was studying medicine on a government scholarship.

"Mornin', Grasshopper," Parker said through a mouthful of corn flakes, nodding in Matt's direction.  Parker had nicknames for everyone else in the apartment: Michael was Bear, because of his size and general demeanor; Matt was Grasshopper, because of his age; and Kale was Brains, though never to his face.  Parker, of course, was usually just Parker, despite his self-bestowed nickname of Stingray.

"'Sup, Parker?" Matt said, rubbing his eyes and yawning.

"Oh, not much," Parker replied with a grin, "Brains left already, but you probably knew that.  For us, though, it's Day One of our next project.  You excited?"

"Parker, I just got up," Matt said, "I'm still half-asleep here.  Right now, the only thing I'm excited for is a nice hot shower."

"Go for it," Parker said, "I'm not stopping you."

Matt gave a grudging chuckle and wandered the rest of the way into the bathroom.  After finishing his shower, he returned to the kitchen to find that Michael was up and moving about.  Michael made some sort of noise that may have been a greeting, and then headed into the bathroom himself and shut the door.

"Ah, dang it," Parker said, "I didn't get there quick enough.  Now I'll have to wait 'til he's out, and that--"

"That could take ages, yes, I know," Matt said, rolling his eyes, "Parker, you've made that joke about twelve times in the past three days.  Don't you think it's gotten a little old by now?"

"Nope," Parker said as he helped himself to the remainder of Michael's toast, "I think it's funny, and that's what matters to me.  Anyway, it just means that we'll need to put off the start of our project until after he's out.  Honestly, it probably won't take long; he should be running out of hot water just about... now."

There was a strangled cry from the bathroom followed by the sound of Michael rapidly shutting the water off.  About twenty seconds later, he came storming out of the bathroom.  He was sopping wet and had a towel wrapped around his waist.

"Guys, why'd you have to use up all the hot water again?" he demanded.

"Hey, it's not our fault that you stayed asleep too long," Parker retorted smoothly, "You brought this on yourself."

"Did not," Michael said, looking stung.

"What's done is done," Matt said, standing up and moving between the two, "Parker, just apologize.  Michael, go either finish your shower or dry yourself off; you've created a puddle on the floor."

Michael looked down.  Sure enough, a puddle of water had formed around his feet.  Parker sniggered, but quickly went straight-faced at the look Matt gave him.

"Yeah, all right, I'm sorry," he said reluctantly, "It was only a joke, and I probably won't do it again."

"Probably?" Michael asked, the corner of his mouth twitching.

"Probably," Parker said, nodding.

Suddenly, the tension in the room broke and all three boys were laughing.  After a few more minutes, Michael went off to get dressed, still chortling good-naturedly.  Parker grabbed a mop and started cleaning up after him.

"Well, that was fun," he said, "Once Bear gets dressed, we can get started on that project."

"Yep," Matt replied, grabbing a muffin from the cupboard, "Should be interesting.  I don't think we've ever tried hacking something as big and important as Homeland Security."

"You're right, we haven't," Parker said contentedly, "I don't think anyone has.  I think they may be a bit more lax with their security in that case; you know, secure in the knowledge that nobody would dare try hacking them."

"You worried we might get caught?" Matt asked.

"Nope," Parker replied, "This code of mine should be something new to their antivirus programs; something different that they haven't encountered before.  Should be fun."

"If you say so," Matt said, taking a large bite of muffin.

21
Factbooks and Maps / Factbook of the Federal Republic of Centralia
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:41:25 PM »


Federal Republic of Centralia



Government: Constitutional Federal Republic (de jure); Single-Party Police State (de facto)
Population: 49,585,406 (2020 census)
Capital: New Providence
Largest city: New Eastland City
Motto: "One Nation Under God"
National anthem: Advance Centralia Fair (lyrics below)
Official language: English (de facto)
Demonym: Centralian
Religion: Christianity, Judaism
Currency: Centralian dollar (Cen$)
Driving side: right
Calling code: +2
Internet TLD: .cn
Date format: mm/dd/yyyy

Head of State: President Jim Tanner
Head of Government: President Jim Tanner
Legislature: Congress of the Federal Republic of Centralia
Upper Body: Senate
Lower Body: House of Representatives

States - with capitals:
New Haven (NH) - Innsmouth
Pittsylvania (PA) - Hartford
Avalonia (AL) - Owensburgh
Newmarch (NM) - Port Royal
North Davidia (ND) - Charleston
South Davidia (SD) - Marysville
Caledonia (CA) - Jamestown
Marthaland (MD) - Brandywine
Columbia (CO) - Mount Vernon
Vandalia (VA) - Carthage
Idumea (ID) - Richmond
Rhedd Island (RI) - Providence
New Eastland (NE) - New Eastland City
Catawba (CT) - Fort Hall
Midland (MI) - Centerville
Moab (MO) - St. George
Dixie (DE) - Savannah
Wyandot (WY) - Laketown
Garland (GA) - St. Augustine
Oakland (OK) - Oakland City
Merrimack (ME) - Portland
West Idumea (WI) - Antioch
Hiawatha (HI) - Newport
Azorea (AZ) - Kingston
New Jordan (NJ) - Ashboro
Montalban (MN) - West Point
Waltonia (WA) - Salem
North Capistrano (NC) - Henrietta
South Capistrano (SC) - Great Falls
Oraibi (OR) - Roundrock
Mazeltovia (MT) - Philipsburgh
New Vandalia (NV) - Olympia

10 largest cities (2020 census):
{WiP}

National holidays:
{WiP}



Advance Centralia Fair
Written and composed by F. Oscar Petersen, 1883

Background:

{WiP}

Text:

1.
Centralians all let us rejoice,
For we are young and free;
We've golden soil and wealth for toil;
Our home lies by the sea;
Our land abounds in nature's gifts
Of beauty rich and rare;
In history's page, let every stage
Advance Centralia Fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance Centralia Fair.

2.
Beneath the radiant sun above
We'll toil with hearts and hands;
To make our youthful nation proud
Renowned of all the lands;
For those who've come across the seas
We've boundless plains to share;
With courage let us all combine
To Advance Centralia Fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance Centralia Fair.

3.
With Christ our head and cornerstone,
We'll build our nation's might;
Whose way and truth and light alone,
Can guide our path aright;
Our lives a sacrifice of love,
Reflect our master's care;
With faces turned to heav'n above,
Advance Centralia Fair;
In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance Centralia Fair.

22
Diplomacy and Events / A Very Tytorian Royal Wedding
« on: June 19, 2019, 08:44:17 PM »
An Invitation from the Kingdom of Tytor

Dear friends and acquaintances,

As you all no doubt are aware, the Kingdom of Tytor has a royal wedding coming up--my wedding.  As has been announced, I am engaged to be married to Lady Theresa Hales of Covington on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2019, at 11:30 AM, Western Albion Standard Time.  The marriage will take place at St. Mary's Cathedral in Tsargrad, with a reception immediately thereafter in the Grand Ballroom of the Royal Palace.  As this is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen ties between Tytor and her allies (in addition to those between myself and Lady Theresa), as well as introduce Tytorian customs to those members of the international community with whom we have not had much interaction, the decision has been made to invite the leaders of the world to attend this momentous occasion.

Those wishing to attend should RSVP to:
The Royal Palace
100 N. King's Way
Tsargrad, EC 30001
Tytor


Signed,
-HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Parksfield

(OOC: There, I did it.  Please note that once the event begins it will be time-locked, meaning that nothing occurring after July 3rd should be mentioned or discussed in this thread.  Also, I will be considering any ongoing crises to have been resolved sufficiently ahead of time, so they should not be brought up either except in past tense.  Finally, as the reception is being held at the Royal Palace, it will be dry; in other words, no alcoholic beverages will be served.)

23
Vignettes / Tytorian Vignettes
« on: May 10, 2019, 07:56:32 AM »
And here I go, reanimating my vignette thread.  As with the thread in the old forum, this post will serve as an index and will be updated with each new post.  I'll be starting off with two vignettes reposted from that thread (one of them slightly edited to move it forward a couple years), as they make up the beginning of a series I intend to finish.  They will be posted momentarily.  For my first three vignettes (An Appointment with the Ages, Heavens Above, and Fire in the Sky), see the old forum.  They're still there.




Index:
Far Above the World - Part 1
Far Above the World - Part 2
Far Above the World - Part 3
Far Above the World - Part 4
Far Above the World - Part 5
Far Above the World - Part 6
Far Above the World - Part 7
Far Above the World - Part 8
Common Sense
Remembrance Day
We Built This City
Joy
Scrabble Night
Ecumenism
Ante Up
Stuck in the Middle with You
All Fall Down - Part 1
All Fall Down - Part 2

24
Press Offices / Press Office of the Prime Minister of Tytor
« on: May 06, 2019, 11:22:01 PM »
Office of the Press Secretary to the Prime Minister



Since 1962, the Press Secretary to the Prime Minister has handled almost all communications to the press by Tytor's head of government.  Accordingly, this office is intended to be a major source for announcements, updates, briefings, and so forth.

Questions addressed to the Press Secretary of the Prime Minister are welcome, but fielded on a case-by-case basis.

25
International News Networks / Tytorian Broadcasting Service (TBS)
« on: May 06, 2019, 11:00:42 PM »

Tytorian Broadcasting Service
Providing Tytor with Quality News Since 1929



Supreme Court Strikes Down Equality Act Amendment

TSARGRAD -- Following weeks of hearings and debate, the Supreme Court this afternoon announced a final ruling on Usher v. Dennison, striking down 2014's amendment to the Gender Equality Act of 2006 as unconstitutional, 5-2.  The amendment in question established civil unions for same-sex couples with the same legal benefits as marriage for opposite-sex couples.  The civil unions enacted under the amendment were to be recorded in the 2023 census, changes that are now void due to the supreme court ruling just announced.

Dame Susanna Chalkhurst, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and one of the court's most consistent conservatives, wrote the majority opinion, which states in part: "...Inasmuch as the Constitution of the Kingdom of Tytor has been ratified by the voice of the people, and inasmuch as the said document defines marriage as being between one man and one woman, we of the majority of the Supreme Court do declare in great solemnity that there remains no reason under Heaven for any exception to that constitutionally enshrined definition.... Furthermore, it has been brought to our attention that the aforementioned amendment is intended to extend certain privileges to those who do not wish to abide by the constitutional definition of marriage by creating a variation of marriage called civil union, legally indistinguishable from marriage in rights, privileges, and advantages, but differing in name and format.  We declare ... that marriage remains fixed between one man and one woman, regardless of laws passed to circumvent that definition.... The document in question, defying as it does constitutional law, is hereby declared unconstitutional and void, and any and all civil unions entered into under its provisions are hereby legally abolished...."

The dissenting opinion, written by Associate Justice Quentin Tremaine, Associate Justice Gabrielle Rickman concurring, states in part: "...As members of the Supreme Court, it is our duty to apply and interpret the law of the land in such a way as to guarantee the liberty of the people, regardless of personal preferences or opinions.... The Constitution of the Kingdom of Tytor says nothing regarding the civil unions perpetuated by this law.  It is, in our eyes, both constitutional and fair to all involved...."

Reaction from the public has been both immediate and mixed, echoing the controversy seen when the amendment  was originally implemented.  Social media exploded directly following the announcement, with some praising Chief Justice Chalkhurst and the Supreme Court, and others criticizing the same.  Reactions to the dissent of Justices Tremaine and Rickman were similarly mixed.

The office of Richard Valance, Archbishop of Tsargrad, issued a statement commending the ruling.  It reads in part: "...The Church of Tytor applauds the integrity shown by the Supreme Court in putting an end to this error of man.  It is not our place, but God's, to place a definition on marriage, and He has made His intentions clear.  Marriage is to be between one man and one woman regardless of what general consensus, or even the world at large, may decide it wants...."

Prime Minister Madeline Thatcher spoke to the press less than five minutes after the ruling was issued.  She said in part: "...This ruling represents a blow to the equality and progress this country has striven so diligently to achieve.  Despite this fact, however, I intend to abide by the Supreme Court's decision.  Members of the Coalition for Democracy will attempt no legal action against the Supreme Court, no matter how disappointed they may be; there will be no mass protests against this or any other ruling by the Supreme Court; and there will certainly be no constitutional amendment intended to circumvent the Supreme Court's authority.... We stand today united with the global community in many respects.  This is no longer one of them.  We ask our friends and associates to respect and honor our  laws, regardless of any differences between us...."

The international community has yet to show any major reaction to this turn of events.  Only time will tell what it will mean for Tytor's international relations.  The full text of each statement quoted here may be found at www.tbs.co.ty.

26
Factbooks and Maps / Factbook of the Kingdom of Tytor
« on: April 23, 2019, 09:51:21 PM »

Kingdom of Tytor
Titorriako Erresuma
タイター王国 (Taitā Ōkoku)
Aupuni o Kaikole




Government: Unitary Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
Population: 78,450,314 (2013 census)
Capital: Tsargrad
Largest city: Williamshaven
Motto: "Ad Regem et in Terra" (Latin: "For King and Country")
Royal anthem: Royal March (instrumental only)
National anthem: Tytor, Our Homeland (lyrics below)
Official language: English
Recognized minority languages: Floodwaterian Creole, Old Tytoric, Rokkenjiman, Native Floodwaterian
Demonym: Tytorian, Tytoric (rarely)
Religion: Christianity, Judaism, Rosarity, Baha'i
Average life expectancy: 79 years
HDI: 0.912 (very high)
Currency: Tytorian crown (₡)
Exchange rate: ₡1.00 = $0.56
GDP (per capita): $3,528,381,322,464 ($44,976)
Driving side: left
Calling code: +37
Internet TLD: .ty
Date format: mm/dd/yyyy
Mains electricity: 120 V–60 Hz
Patron saint: Erasmus (St Elmo)

Head of State: King Michael I
Head of Government: Prime Minister Madeline Thatcher
Legislature: Parliament of the Kingdom of Tytor
Upper Body: House of Nobles
Lower Body: House of Commons

Provinces - with capitals:
East Crownlands (EC) - Tsargrad
West Crownlands (WC) - Williamshaven
Decapolis (DE) - Aquilae
Northmark (NM) - Ravensfort
Southmark (SM) - Vigil
Floodwater IAR (FW) - Port Monsoon

10 largest cities (2013 census):

1. Williamshaven, West Crownlands (population: 1,115,057)


2. St. Elmo's City, Decapolis (population: 1,070,381)


3. Christiansburg, Decapolis (population: 923,506)


4. Ravensfort, Northmark (population: 719,922)


5. Vigil, Southmark (population: 708,004)


6. Tsargrad, East Crownlands (population: 657,890)


7. Farmington, Decapolis (population: 500,193)


8. Aquilae, Decapolis (population: 472,488)


9. Port Monsoon, Floodwater IAR (population: 437,016)


10. Newcharter, Decapolis (population: 428,902)

National holidays:
New Year's Day - January 1st
Unification Day - February 14th
King Michael's Birthday - March 27th
Memorial Day - April 25th
St Elmo's Day - June 2nd
Kingdom Day - September 15th
Thanksgiving Day - October 22nd
Remembrance Day - November 11th
Christmas Day - December 25th

National symbols:
Colors - black, gold, and green
Bird - brown falcon
Mammal - Tytorian beaver
Reptile - hawksbill sea turtle
Insect - two-spotted ladybug
Fish - leopard shark
Flower - scarlet pimpernel
Tree - sugar maple
Fossil - Smilodon fatalis
Dinosaur - Herrerasaurus ischigualastensis

Orders of chivalry:
Order of the Crown - Est. 1679, revived 1948
Order of the Scepter - Est. 1679, revived 1948
Order of Aquilae - Est. 2014
Order of the Cross - Est. 1356, revived 1948
Order of the Falcon - Est. 1821
Order of Merit - Est. 1948

Demographics (2013 census):

Religious Affiliation:

Ethnicity:

First Language:



Tytor, Our Homeland
Written by Janae Ricks, 1960
Composed by Edmund St. George, 1944

Background:

{WiP}

Text:

1.
East to the mountains, west to the ocean,
South to the hills and north to the plain,
Tytor stands ready, noble and steady,
As we go forth, singing loud our refrain:

(Chorus)
Ours is this land which has ever been blessed,
Ours is the hope that we'll ever be free!
|:Reaching for greatness, prizing our oneness,
We stand for Tytor and our liberty!:|

2.
Tytor, our nation, bless'd with salvation
From evil men who sought naught but gain--
God has deliver'd all that is in her,
That all may sing and join in the refrain:

(Chorus)
Ours is this land which has ever been blessed,
Ours is the hope that we'll ever be free!
|:Reaching for greatness, prizing our oneness,
We stand for Tytor and our liberty!:|

3.
Thru ev'ry trial, each rugged mile,
Tytor has press'd, no matter the pain--
So that our kingdom might have the freedom
To stand triumphant and shout this refrain:

(Chorus)
Ours is this land which has ever been blessed,
Ours is the hope that we'll ever be free!
|:Reaching for greatness, prizing our oneness,
We stand for Tytor and our liberty!:|


Spoiler: Carry On, national anthem 1946-1960 • show
Carry On
Written and composed by Thomas Duvall, 1923

Background:

{WiP}

Text:

1.
Firm as the mountains around us,
Stalwart and brave we stand
On the rock our fathers planted
For us in this goodly land--
The rock of honor and virtue,
Of faith in the living God.
They raised their banner triumphant--
Over the verdant sod.

(Chorus)
And we hear the forests singing:
Carry on, carry on, carry on!
Hills and vales and mountains ringing:
Carry on, carry on, carry on!
Holding aloft our colors,
We march in the glorious dawn.
Oh heirs of the noble birthright,
Carry on, carry on, carry on!

2.
We'll build on the rock they planted
A nation strong and bold,
And rouse in all its citizens
Great courage as of old.
Notwithstanding many trials,
We will gain in honest wealth,
And secure for us the blessings
Of love and joy and health.

(Chorus)
And we hear the forests singing:
Carry on, carry on, carry on!
Hills and vales and mountains ringing:
Carry on, carry on, carry on!
Holding aloft our colors,
We march in the glorious dawn.
Oh heirs of the noble birthright,
Carry on, carry on, carry on!

(OOC: These lyrics are based off of the hymn "Carry On", written by Ruth May Fox in 1930.  The tune, taken from the same hymn, was composed by Alfred M. Durham.)

27
Introductions / I'm Not New, But I Am Back
« on: April 18, 2019, 05:49:03 AM »
See subject.

Pages: [1]