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Messages - Beatrice

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61
War and Conflict / Re: Eavesdropping
« on: March 14, 2024, 07:51:55 PM »
Sophia smiled, she'd already gotten one of the items on her wish list. "I'll be transferring command of the group to the Edward Truden, do see that a discreet transport is arranged for me. I do believe that they're due for some manner of resupply, thus I'll make my way over then." Hours later the Vice Admiral was aboard Edward Truden; if the Achkaerinese were going to be making a visit it presented an opportunity to speak face-to-face on some concerns that would best be discussed in such a setting. Naturally an apology was to be owed, however, the circumstances at hand required a bit of ruffling to draw attention away from the primary reason she was not presently back home.
Once she had been informed that the mission of Hunting Girl had been completed she relayed the necessary orders to effect their withdrawal from the region. Despite calls for violence against Rokkenjimans by Ramose, the time spent in Clysperis by the Rokkenjimans was rather uneventful, aside from one misguided youth throwing rocks at a Rokkenjiman sailor. Once he was subdued into Clysperi custody the appetite of the crowd for further acts of violence seemed to diminish greatly, granting Forrester the chance to take pictures of the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and she enjoyed sampling the dishes Akasha had to offer for her guests. It wouldn't be a visit to change the entire course of their relations, but that they'd been so well received spoke toward the path of normalization which the Pharaoh had pledged her Kingdom toward.
"Let's make sure our intentions are clear," Sophia said as they reached the understood point for this "stop and search". "We'll follow the protocol we've seen in the Illumic," she continued, ordering Edward Truden's guns aimed so that they'd be wholly targeted away from any approaching Achkaerinese vessels or territory, "be prepared to strike the colours as well," she said, knowing there were a couple newer faces on the bridge. "But...why?" one would ask, which prompted Sophia to give her best Picard impression its time in the spotlight, "In case we decide to surrender to them, Number One," which prompted chuckles amongst those more well versed in Sophia's brand of humour. "In all seriousness we've inconvenienced them quite a bit," she continued, "best to let them know just why it was necessary. Have some fresh tea ready, will you?"

In some way the concerns of INIS were secondary to her; prior to Kado guiding her to opening her eyes she never would have doubted Rowe's sense of duty to the First Empire as it appeared most unshakeable. Now that she had found herself in the unenviable position of being his greatest adversary in the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces, she had to relay her concerns, perhaps find some reassuring that she wasn't witnessing something that wasn't truly there, and that friends abroad would know how to differentiate renegades from those whose loyalty remained steadfast with the Empress and Empire if the worst should transpire at some point in the future. Intelligence gathering was one part of the mission and, with that seemingly accomplished, she could focus fully upon her personal part in this, indeed, the very reason she offered no resistance to the plan in the first place.

62
Vignettes / Rowe's Last Stand
« on: March 13, 2024, 09:19:02 PM »
Location: Admiral Rowe's Office
Time: 10:24 AST

"Here you are, in my office whilst she," he pointed to a screen, "is out there living her best life, the adoring heart of millions. You'd of been better off if you'd let me kill her as I originally proposed because," Rowe sighed, "your harlot will only cause us trouble moving forward. Look," he placed his hand on Stanley's shoulder, "my first wife heard details she would of been better off not knowing, I had her smothered in her sleep and I haven't lost a wink over it. Yet here we have," he said as he pulled up a video of Rowe's wife "out there singing songs about you and your failed marriage. Are you that afraid of her that your manhood died somewhere along the way?" Rowe asked as he folded his hands underneath his chin.

"Good gods man, I don't want her death," Stanley said in repulsion, to which Rowe sighed, "This bitch," he said as the video played, "will be your undoing, she might not have her intelligence apparatus anymore, she might lack the sanction of the Imperial Government, but she'll undo you. Give me the word and I'll see her voice never sings again, she'll be but a page in your history, and your humiliation will end. Do you agree to let me help you?" Rowe said as he extended his hand to which Stanley extended his. "Then I can assure you, her performance at the Association Fest will be her last, and there will be no blood on your hands as a result. We're eliminating a common enemy," he paused as he laid his hand on Stanley's shoulder, "she ceased to be your wife long before this point. "And when we take out this common enemy, I trust you'll play your part?" Rowe continued.

"I'll be a sad husband, I'll cry, and I'll play my role in the affair," Stanlley would reply. "Good boy," Rowe said as he again placed his hand on Stanley's shoulder, "you learn quickly. We'll silence this bitch once and for all, I promise you. You're on the right side, you know?"

63
War and Conflict / Eavesdropping
« on: March 13, 2024, 08:30:43 PM »

IRN Excalibur, somewhere in the Great Northern Sea.

"The flowers are in bloom on the trees your father planted so many years ago and the birds, how they sit upon the branches and sing their songs proudly, I've included an attachment of that with this message. I hope you face fair seas and following winds, I'll see you when you get home, love." Sophia touched the screen before her as a bush warbler sang out from the speakers. She didn't have time to pen a response in the moment, however, as some manner of communication would be required with the Achkaerinese given her presence in their back yard. As an added benefit, however, she would be capable of speaking with friendly forces far outside the earshot of Rowe. Knowing that most means of communication would be monitored back home she sat down at the backup communications station, placed her finger upon the telegraph key, and began to tap out a message at 25% of the power of the radio equipment. This would ensure the message was within range of the Achkaerinese, but not within any Rokkenjiman stations which would otherwise be listening in.

Code: [Select]
...- .. -.-. . / .- -.. -- .. .-. .- .-.. / ... --- .--. .... .. .- / ..-. --- .-. .-. . ... - . .-. / - --- / .- -.-. .... -.- .- . .-. .. -. . ... . .-.-.- / .--. .-.. . .- ... . / -.. .. ... .--. .- - -.-. .... / .- -. / --- ..-. ..-. .. -.-. . .-. / - --- / -- -.-- / ...- . ... ... . .-.. / .- - / -.-- --- ..- .-. / . .- .-. .-.. .. . ... - / -.-. --- -. ...- . -. .. . -. -.-. . .-.-.- / .-- . / -. . . -.. / - --- / - .- .-.. -.- .-.-.-

Translation: Vice Admiral Sophia Forrester to Achkaerinese. Please dispatch an officer to my vessel at your earliest convenience. We need to talk.
Meanwhile, IRN Edward Truden, an Obeisance Class battleship and IRN Hinagiku, a Kashiwa Class destroyer, proceeded to their berths in Setri, whilst IRN Hunting Girl took position beneath the waves of the Gulf of Safraen, maintaining her position above an underseas cable due to her stabilizers which enabled her to maintain such a position against the forces of underseas currents. Siphoning the data of a foreign nation was always be a risky proposition, however, the silence of Hunting Girl aligned with her suite of weapons and defenses offered a capability most nations could not afford. Indeed, the presence of three decoy submarines, should their victims be looking for anything underneath the waves that is, would give Hunting Girl the breathing room she needs to complete her mission. Still, even with that, the presence of the Excalibur Strike Group in the midst of the Unitary State and Achkaerin, combined with the port of call in Clysperis, Sophia was confident she had given Hunting Girl the cover she needed to complete the mission.

64
Diplomacy and Events / Re: A Message From The Royal Clysperi Government-in-Exile
« on: March 13, 2024, 07:40:56 PM »

The capitulation of Khemnen Palace, once an unthinkable event, is something which is now within the foreseeable future as Beketaten hosts the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy in her pet project of Setri. While this event is something which should be of concern to every Clysperi citizen she has also dispatched aid to the puppet regime established in Kalasin, quickly back-tracking from standing up to the very forces she pretended to stand against for years. She would see the people of our continent subject to continued military occupation and foreign-backed leadership so she may collect crumbs from nations such as the Achkaerinese and the Rokkenjimans. To my rightful subjects, these are sad days for the Kingdom and something which I am certain in every fiber of my being that the gods are looking down with great disgust.

I tell you now, if you see these Rokkenjimans on our streets, greet them with stones, molotovs or other implements. Beketaten wishes to send them home with "some knowledge" whereas I say we should send them home with marks they can never forget even if they wish to. I have spoken of my desire for the Kingdom to exist in a more friendly position with the world around us, yet not at the cost of our identity as a nation; not as a vassal of the Achkaerinese and certainly not as a vassal of the Rokkenjimans. If we must bloody a few noses or, indeed, break them to ensure the message is received by those in foreign capitals then so be it; we didn't ask for them here, we don't want them here, and we will most assuredly see that they find their way home broken, beaten and scarred.

To the Allied Provisional Authority I tell you now, despite Beketaten sending your nascent vassals in Kalasin aid and backtracking from her opposition, Clysperis is not your friend and it never will be. Not until the last Ardian and Achkaerinese swine is removed from Kalasin should we consider aid, aid which will only benefit certain parties in Kalasin I'm sure as it will be misappropriated for the elite, or any manner of recognition.

To my people please, stand vigilant, stand by, and stand ready. Soon, we embark upon the righteous battle for the soul of Clysperis and, by the gods, we will be victorious, for we must be victorious. We can no longer allow the Great Pretender, Beketaten, to soil her titles and our very soil with these offenses against the gods.

Ramose Sehet-ib-Re, Sovereign of Sovereigns, Chosen of Ra, Lord of the Three Lands.

65
International News Networks / Re: Clysperis State Media Corporation (CSMC) - The Daily Review
« on: March 12, 2024, 09:09:46 PM »


Pharaoh Allows IRN Port Of Call To Setri


An Imperial Rokkenjiman Battleship will be in Setri over the coming days in a port of call.

As the Kingdom of Clysperis and the First Empire of Rokkenjima continue the path to normalized relations Pharaoh Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re has accepted a port of call from two Rokkenjiman warships. IRN Edward Truden, an Obeisance Class battleship, will be joined by the Kashiwa Class destroyer Hinagiku in the City of Setri for the next two to four days. "It is my pleasure to extend the hospitality of the Kingdom of Clysperis to the sailors aboard these vessels, as well as an opportunity for them to better understand Clysperi culture and that, at the end of the day, we both are ancient civilizations who do not have cause for quarrel between our peoples. It is my hope that these Rokkenjimans will see the Great Pyramids of Nafu, for which I've arranged transportation should they request it, as well as arranging for a full traditional Clysperi dinner for all prepared by my personal chef for their enjoyment. I'll also be on hand in Setri for those who wish for some brief talks during their time in Clysperis."

The Pharaoh shared her interest in Edward Truden, stating "if we had a ship such as that, the Soviets would have never subdued the sovereign spirit of Clysperis as they managed to do so. I am happy that the IRN has granted my request for a short tour of the battle ship, and I look forward to meeting the sailors who serve aboard her. I also hope that this marks an initial step between Clysperis and Rokkenjima, that we may restore full diplomatic relations and see for our Peoples a path forward lined in trust and friendship. We do not have to be foes, and as I welcome your sailors into my harbours, I promise to protect them as fiercely as I would those of my own. May they enjoy themselves and take some knowledge home at the same time."

66
Vignettes / Re: "We Stand On Guard For Thee"
« on: March 12, 2024, 08:52:21 PM »
Location: Kōshioka Naval Base, Fukadomari
Time: 9:45 AST

"This whole Abstergo affair reeks," Sophia said to those in the room. It proved to be the usual cast as of late, Kado on behalf of the INIS and <0 on behalf of, well, herself in most instances. It was certainly the opinion in Kōshioka, and shared with the INIS, that there might be more than meets the eye with the events. "As such, after discussions with Kado prior to your arrival," she said as she looked to <0's screen from that of her own, "we've arranged a mission for one of our most capable intelligence gathering tools to spend some time in the Great Northern Sea," as she said the words Kado's smile became more evident.

"We're sending Hunting Girl to do what she does best and, most importantly, give you plenty of data to play with so you can do what you do best. Won't that be fun?" Kado said as he 'booped' the monitor as one would boop a nose, prompting <0 to sigh. "You can't even see where my nose would be on the screen, ugh, but I like where this is going. If we can tap into some underseas cables and use the ROVs, I imagine you'll bring me something home to work with." As Sophia began to ask how Kado shushed her, "our girl here knows quite a bit about all of us, she's got her fingers in just about every digital system in the First Empire and likely has windows into foreign nations though, if she does, she hasn't told me. As Lucinda told me she's an "asset of the Crown with broad purview" so her clearances might just rival yours or mine." Sophia nodded and returned to her seat, "very well, let us continue."

"Hunting Girl will enter the Great Northern Sea along with IRN Edward Truden, an Obeisance Class battleship and IRN Hinagiku, a Kashiwa Class destroyer, each of which will be conducting a port of call in Setri, Clysperis as Rokkenjima and Clysperis continue to normalize relations. Mind you it would not be my first choice to send Rokkenjima's largest battleship for such an occasion, however, the Pharaoh noted her interest in seeing such a vessel and felt it would bring in more tourists to Setri, so the request was allowed. I also believe this will draw the attention of the Unitary State whilst Hunting Girl conducts her mission inconspicuously beneath the waves. That much firepower sitting directly across from you in the Gulf of Safraen, not to mention the presence of the Excalibur Strike Group is nothing you'd ignore, even if the situation at present had no potential to escalate to military conflict."

"Essentially, party up top and all business down below," Kado said with a grin. "Kado, the saying is 'business in the front, party in the ba...' you know what, the quirks aren't what's important right now. What is important is that we see what information we can gather, which is why we're also sourcing aOS and nexus devices used by Rokkenjiman citizens returning from the Unitary State for inspection. Essentially Abstergo has agreed to provide new models in return for the sacrifice of their current devices. Those devices will then be forwarded to <0 for analysis," Sophia continued, which prompted a chuckle from <0.

"Explain?" Sophia asked. "I know what Abstergo's been up to with their SIMP, they've done much more than data anonymization and quite franky I'm surprised the bastards streamlined Helmine to operate on a single processor. To offer a crash course," <0 said as a series of images filled the displays before Sophia and Kado, "in ICON Helmine oversees the central ICON cluster; she knows what each local client of Renix RSP should look like, and what the apps that are ran on them should look like down to the bit. If she sniffs something running unauthorized or otherwise modified code, even on the system level, she isolates them and disconnects them from the rest of ICON before purging the local hard drive in question. I know the Vice Admiral is privy to this bu..." "I'm aware of Helmine, thank you," Kado said while raising his hand, "what has Abstergo done with their SIMP though?" he continued.

"Well, just as the central cluster queries and checks those local clients, SIMP's Helmine queries and checks the status of aOS, any apps installed, and checks them against what is offered in the aOS Store and the official versions of aOS released from Abstergo. If there's something amiss Helmine issues a prompt to the user before rendering the device inert, and yes Abstergo ships them a new device. They're ambitious if attacking the hardest nut in the technological space is their goal but, I'm merely speculating here. I'll need the data to work with to find any ultimate conclusions here."

"And data you shall have," Kado said with a smile. "When do we expect our vessels to arrive?" he continued. "We're scheduled to arrive in about 23 hours, I'll be on hand aboard the Excalibur, and while our entire carrier strike group will not be partaking in the port of call the remainder of our group will be about halfway between Abydos and Achkaerin." "Speaking of Achkaerin," Kado paused, "clue them in on this. Something of this nature seems like something they'd be interested in knowing the results of," to which Sophia nodded. "Let's hope someone's listening in on GRAFT, I don't want to trust this to general comms."

"Then we're adjourned for now," Kado said as he stood to leave. "And here we are, the boys at it once again," <0 said which prompted a confused look from Kado. "I've been into Amazon properties lately, and the fourth season is going to blow your mind but," an image filled her screen.



"Cheeky bitch," Kado sighed as he exited. "Love you too, intelligence daddy," <0 said before ending the call, which left Sophia wondering what had happened in the conclusion of their meeting.

67
International News Networks / Re: Rokkenjima Broadcasting Corporation (RBC)
« on: March 12, 2024, 12:55:56 AM »


Evanesence Returns With First Video In Years

Largely popular in the early 2000s, Evanescense has returned to prominence in the Rokkenjiman charts.

From a move out of left field a voice from years ago has knocked the "trifecta" from the Top 10 of the Rokkenjiman charts dropping a new music video which none saw coming. With the release of the video interest in Evanescence has been rekindled across the First Empire, with not only the latest offerings from Evanesence charting but also songs such as 2003's Bring Me To Life and 2006s Sweet Sacrifice finding their way to the top of the charts, in some cases, for the first time in nearly 20 years. While members of the band were unavailable for comment at time of press Red Moon Music representatives stated simply, "It's an iconic sound, and iconic sounds transcend boundaries such as time. So it comes as little surprise to us that on the release of this video that interest in the impressive back catalogue of Evanescence has shown results in the charts."

The RBC has received unofficial footage from a performance at Pyrena Castle which the Empress enjoyed in the previous days, however Pyrena Castle has declined comments on the performance happening. The RBC will bring you the latest as these stories progress.

68
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Rokkenjiman Office of the Press
« on: March 12, 2024, 12:02:43 AM »
Pyrena Castle
Imperial Household Ministry
For Immediate Release
March 11, 2024

As required by newly implemented Financial Reporting Standards by the Imperial Diet the Imperial Household Ministry is hereby presenting its 2024 report on the assets held by the Imperial Family. At the start of the present year the Imperial Family holds net assets worth र648.6bn ($1.2tn). These assets are a combination of equities, the market capitalization of Abstergo Industries, real estate, precious metals, art, yachts, luxury vehicles, rare earth minerals revenue, commercial properties, agricultural land, foreshore and bonds. This portfolio, and any profits derived from it, are managed by the Imperial Household Ministry via the Imperial Sovereign Fund (ISF) which utilizes a portion of the profits to enact meaningful positives in the lives of the Rokkenjiman People, at the direction of the Empress.

These figures do not take into account assets owned by the Empress Emeritus and Emperor Emeritus, which are considered separately for the purposes of our reporting and are not required by the Financial Reporting Standards the Imperial Diet passed.

69
International News Networks / Re: Rokkenjima Broadcasting Corporation (RBC)
« on: March 11, 2024, 11:36:19 PM »


Empress Acquires "Land Yacht"


The र1.62m ($3m) "Land Yacht" is set to become a part of the Empress' motorcade.

While the Empress will have to wait to employ the Land Yacht in an official capacity, due to pending modifications by the Defense Solutions Division of Abstergo Industries, the Imperial Palace accepted delivery of the vehicle earlier this week. "While the details of the modifications themselves will naturally not be something we may disclose to the public naturally things like the windows, armour, an upgrade to the stock power plant to increase its top speed, are things that anyone would be capable of assuming. As we've had an extensive hand in developing security and defense platforms for the Imperial Yacht Fleet, it will be our pleasure to ensure the Empress enjoys that level of protection on land as well," a spokesperson for the DSD shared with the RBC.


Kitchen and dining facilities, the later of which the Empress may utilize for meetings with staff.

Featuring 732 square feet of living space the Empress will be capable of having accommodations at hand anywhere she may travel at the standards of Rokkenjiman security, whether it be by land, sea or air. The full cost of the Land Yacht was covered by the Empress herself at no cost to Rokkenjiman taxpayers. "It was important to me that if we took on another vehicle in the Imperial Fleet, it should be done so not at the cost of the Rokkenjiman People. I am naturally looking forward to putting this new, and useful, tool to use once necessary modifications are made."


The Sky Lounge will allow the Empress to entertain guests or enjoy the views around her.
Olympic To Set Sail Next Month


Olympic undergoing sea trials prior to her anticipated voyage to Arendelle, Dartfordia.

IMS Olympic is completing sea trials with "flying colours" according to Blue Star Lines who have put the 114 year old liner through the paces before her voyage to Arendelle, Dartfordia next month. While she has been restored to a period accurate state a number of behind-the-scenes changes have been implemented to ensure the safe operations of the vessel, including the discreet addition of a fire suppression system, wastewater treatment facilities as well as upgraded wiring and navigational equipment, the later of which occupies space in the upper portion of the fourth tunnel. The Empress will be taking part in the voyage, with spots open for guests from across Mundus to take part in the historic voyage to Arendelle. The RBC will bring you more as we approach the Olympic's first voyage in decades.

70
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Rokkenjiman Office of the Press
« on: March 11, 2024, 12:55:27 AM »
Pyrena Castle
Chrysanthemum Throne
For Immediate Release
March 10, 2024

With the exit of Abstergo Industries from Mktvartvelo as announced earlier today the First Empire will continue to maintain obstacles imposed upon previously listed Mktvartvelo firms from ever hoping to engage with the Rokkenjiman economy. The actions we've seen toward a foreign company must not be allowed to be normalized and I call upon the friends, partners and allies of Rokkenjima to ensure that does not happen. If we allow this situation to stand the very basis of the international economy hangs in the balance and I, for one, will not sit comfortably and let that happen. Rokkenjiman sanctions will stand as they are as it is the position of the Imperial Government that Abstergo was forced out of the market in Mktvartvelo. Naturally the door shall be open for the Unitary State to prove otherwise however, until the date and time they choose to do so, Rokkenjima will stand steadfast in the actions of the Crown. While we'll never close the door entirely to anyone, we'll demand an action of trust in the future to sooth the wounds of trust lost previously.

That is all.

71
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« on: March 11, 2024, 12:39:28 AM »
"Oh please, don't let pretenses fool you," Kado said as he pulled his Howa Type 64 from underneath his desk. "You'll find, on further inspection, that it's taken care for meticulously, and I'd challenge you to find one single fault in its condition," he said with a smile. "I recognize that the Type '89 has succeeded it but," he paused, displaying it with a measure of pride, "if it's not broken, I feel you have little need to fix it. My records at the Imperial Training Grounds, as well as my battle records, are, to some extent at least," he sighed, "public record, but once I have a target in my sights," he chuckled, "they're no longer a threat. Do hold my hand though and let me try something new," he said as he set the Type 64 in a corner, "just don't tell her about it, jealous type after all" he said walking away from the rifle with a chuckle.
Another request for Rowe to meet with her personally, another request denied. "Ugh he's worse than the fanboys I had back in Tytor like," she paused as she made a puking motion, "no thank you, dude." Lucinda chuckled, "Their type wants to be right next to the Empress, you're wise to keep them at arm's length, don't ever doubt yourself no matter what is before you. I learned long ago your gut instinct, is usually the one you should trust," she continued as she sighed, it'd been a while since her and Asuna had palled around in the Residential Wing of Pyrena. "I hope you're not jealous," Asuna said as she motioned Lucinda to look at her MP3 player, "...all of the albums, even the ones you had to download illegally....I'm not mad at that," Lucinda said as she held back a tear. "I have to say," Asuna said with a smile, "I like your emotional side, you've opened up so much in recent times and I have to ask why?" Lucinda stammered, "well I los...well I ha...I adopted an animal and while I love plants, the little guy snagged his way into my heart," she continued as she presented Baxter JR. "Don't smother him as your mother did," she sighed, "they have feelings too and too much of a good thing is bad."

Asuna bent down and presented a banana, "what's this, buddy?" she continued, handing it to him. "All yours, my man," she said to which Lucinda rolled her eyes. "Spoiling him, I see. You've your mother's heart," she sighed, to which Asuna hugged her. "Why are you...what is this?" Lucinda asked. "Luci, you sighed, you, Luci, sighed. You never let your disappointment show before so," Asuna paused and looked away, "I'm happy for you, okay?" to which Lucinda giggled, "it is new, isn't it? I feel, comfortable, with some people like this and while that is new, I do like it. Don't tell anyone though," she said holding a finger to her mouth to which Asuna nodded, "our little secret, whatever keeps you on this path. You don't know how it warms my heart it to see you like this, I'm here for it and I love it," she said with a tighter hug.

"As long as you let me breathe it'll stick around," Lucinda said as she gripped Asuna tighter, "this side'll stick around, I promise."

72
Press Offices / Re: Abstergo Public Relations Office
« on: March 10, 2024, 11:53:46 PM »

The Office Of CEO Relkin
For Immediate Release
March 10, 2024

Withdrawal From Mktvartvelo

Abstergo Industries has long held itself to a high standard in its relationship with our consumers across Mundus, and while that's a stance which has certainly cost us what is, for some, lucrative options in dealing in data we determined that we should, and must, buck that trend. I've always held the belief that if a product, service or other offering you are using is free the item in question is not the product, you are. Even in cases where transmitting data for processing on Abstergo systems would be the easy path to take we believed that control of data should belong with the individual; it's why every Abstergo product ships with the Secured Integrated Memory Processor (SIMP) which ensures that delicate information is processed on the device or, if information must be sent back to Abstergo, that it is anonymized in such a way that we are incapable of tying that set of data to any particular account. With the most recent actions in Mktvartvelo announced yesterday Abstergo Industries has consulted legal counsel which is experienced in international law and has elected to remove itself from the Mktvartvelo market entirely. As the Unitary State has an undue prejudice against Abstergo Industries and refuses to take any actions to rectify the allegations of jingoism and protectionism, Abstergo is not interested in continued fights before courts that are already aligned against us.

As Mktvartvelo was never a part of our financial programs in their initial days, and services have never been extended to the Mktvartvelo market, the provisions enacted against Abstergo Industries are, for the most part, toothless. Those who will ultimately suffer are the consumers who will be limited to only those options as approved by their political leadership. This creates, in Mktvartvelo, a market which is neither fair nor free and one I feel should be an issue which my colleagues abroad should consider in their interactions with the economy of Mktvartvelo. As we've seen with Abstergo one day you're in the clear, the next a law which the full understanding of which hasn't been shared with you forces you out of an entire market. While much of the world has moved beyond such archaic, protectionist and jingoistic actions, it's apparent to me that Mktvartvelo is stuck in an age which has passed in much of the broader world. That is, truly, unfortunate.

That's all I have to say on the matter at this time. I've taken the liberty of emailing links to VPNs and other resources for our customers within the Mktvartvelo market who still value choice, as well as "unofficial" workarounds to the patches Abstergo is unfortunately forced to push to your devices that you can implement at your earliest leisure, which will allow you to continue using your devices as they presently operate into the foreseeable future. It has been a pleasure to serve you.

73
International News Networks / Re: Rokkenjima Broadcasting Corporation (RBC)
« on: March 07, 2024, 09:50:31 PM »


Empress Addresses Abstergo Situation


The Empress weighed in after she was asked of the situation brewing between Abstergo Industries and Mktvartvelo.

With the imposing of Rokkenjiman sanctions upon six firms based in Mktvartvelo the Empress has responded, stating the "situation is unfortunate, but necessary. Abstergo's data processing and storage retention policies have routinely went beyond that which is required by Rokkenjiman law and regulations, so it was quite a surprise to see their policies being drawn into question by those in Mktvartvelo," the Empress said as she sat down with the RBC, holding up her aOS device. "Many companies send a lot of data when they "phone home", so to say, including our voices and other bio-metric data, yet with Abstergo products they've taken the extra step to include a special processor, the SIMP unit, which handles those demands on-device; this means that much of the data other companies would be harvesting Abstergo is either declining to receive at all or, if any data is received, it is in an anonymized manner which cannot tie one single individual to the data by even the most knowledge of Abstergo's engineers. All those silly questions to Lexa I've asked? Abstergo has no way of tying them to me, and they've never received a recording of my voice. We've tested this, with assets in the INIS sniffing every packet of data from my phone to Abstergo's servers, and the privacy policy is followed just as it is stated."

"We experienced the corporatist government of the Federal Republic," the Empress continued, "one which often elected to view corporations as their constituents over the very people of Rokkenjima, so there's a whole hangover involved there that the Imperial Government must keep the worst impulses of capitalism subdued while allowing for innovation to proceed. That drive saw the development of the SIMP chip, which is included in every Abstergo computer and smart phone, a secure enclave that not even Abstergo can access without the consent of the owner of whatever product in question is before them. In addition, Abstergo has seen that the Rokkenjiman standard of opting-in through Informed Consent Prompts has been maintained in foreign markets. This means that, for a consumer in any market to have their data shared with Abstergo they've at least two, concise, prompts to which they must agree to prior to the already limited set of data Abstergo collects to be collected. If I set my VPN to, let's say a location in Mktvartvelo," she continued and then navigated to an Abstergo services website a first prompt appeared on her screen: "Do you agree to share the following information with Abstergo Industries?" with a detailed list of the data requested, with both "yes" and "no" options displayed with equal prominence. When the Empress selected "yes" a second prompt appeared on her screen. "Your consent may be withdrawn at any time of your choosing. The ways in which the data you share may be found at this link and your right to withdraw consent may be found at this link. We encourage you to save both links to ensure your relationship with Abstergo remains fully within your control."

"So, as you have seen yourself, they're rather up front in adhering to Rokkenjiman law, even beyond our borders which is a net win for consumers in any market. The purposes for which data is requested, as well as how it is processed and with whom it is shared, is also limited by Rokkenjiman consumer protection law, and the steps which they take to protect that data meet or exceed every Rokkenjiman metric for protection purposes. These measures are just a few examples of why I did not hold back punitive actions of the Imperial Government against the firms in Mktvartvelo; quite frankly, this could've been solved with a phone call. We'll see what Abstergo does as it pursues actions under the MCUR, however, I remain hopeful that such actions will not be necessary ultimately. However, not even I have seen what's in the "State Security Powers Act of 1974", but I can ensure you that the "Consumer Privacy and Protections Act of 2017" enacted by the Imperial Diet is much more stringent and comprehensive in its demands of companies and their interactions with consumers in the modern economy. I naturally look forward to this silly affair being resolved sooner, rather than later."

74
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Rokkenjiman Office of the Press
« on: March 07, 2024, 09:06:18 PM »
Pyrena Castle
Chrysanthemum Throne
For Immediate Release
March 7, 2024

As the text of the "State Security Powers Act of 1974" has not been released or revealed by the Unitary State of Mktvartvelo, nor the very nature of the allegations levied against Abstergo Industries being made blatantly clear, the Imperial Government is forced to move forward with a sanctions package against the following firms in Mktvartvelo:

Shengelaia Fund
Mtliani Corporation
Gunia Holding
Natali Group
Gatsval Group
Agheba

This is a preliminary list and may expand depending upon how the present situation progresses. While we know Rokkenjiman consumer protection law quite well we cannot say the same of our knowledge of Mktvartvelo consumer protection law, not even that of the "State Security Powers Act of 1974". When considering the Abstergo Privacy Policy has been called "one of the privacy policies of all time" by some on social media, combined with stringent reviews of Abstergo practices and the continued opaque approach taken by Mktvartvelo when asked in clear, concise language to provide the full text of the Act in question as well as the specific alleged violations committed by Abstergo, the only logical conclusion this Imperial Government can reach is that the Act is being used as an economic weapon. In return, the First Empire must protect Rokkenjiman consumers, and the Rokkenjiman economy, by excluding the above listed Mktvartvelo firms from any interactions with Rokkenjiman consumers and any operations within the broader Rokkenjiman economy by the authority vested in Chrysanthemum Throne.

We have also advised Abstergo Industries to proceed with a case before the MCUR as the Imperial Government does not believe that the right to a fair trial has been met in these legal proceedings to date. While it is unfortunate that the situation has reached this point the Imperial Government will protect the interests of Rokkenjimans, and the stability of the Rokkenjiman economy, when both are so blatantly targeted by a foreign power. Naturally, should the nature of the alleged violations or even the text of the Act in question itself be provided, we may see the punitive measures enacted by the First Empire repealed. However, until such a time either of those events should transpire or we see the resolution of a case before the MCUR, the punitive actions enacted by the Imperial Government shall stand.

75
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Rokkenjiman Office of the Press
« on: March 06, 2024, 09:50:32 PM »
Pyrena Castle
Chrysanthemum Throne
For Immediate Release
March 6, 2024

Following discussions which heard the concerns of Abstergo Industries that their business operations are being unfairly targeted by the Government of Mktvartvelo, notably through the use of an Act of which the text the Imperial Government has been incapable of tracking down, the First Empire is concerned at the allegations of protectionism and unfair business practices apparently being exhibited by Mktvartvelo. In response to this unfortunate situation, one which we feel could have been addressed efficiently and without such coverage in the press if officials in Mktvartvelo had engaged with Abstergo to address any existing concerns, or at least to share the passages of the Act which Abstergo is allegedly in violation of, the First Empire is forced to consider a range of measures in response to the actions of Mktvartvelo.

At present, the Imperial Government is considering a sanctions package against the following firms in Mktvartvelo:

Shengelaia Fund
Mtliani Corporation
Gunia Holding
Natali Group
Gatsval Group
Agheba

This is a preliminary list and may expand depending upon how the present situation progresses. To be honest, to date law in Mktvartvelo has been a black hole for eyes peering in from the outside; that a corporation can face punitive actions such as we've seen in the case of Abstergo vs Mktvartvelo should be of concern for any foreign firms conducting business within Mktvartvelo. The Imperial Government shall grant authorities in Mktvartvelo one week to provide evidence of any behaviour from Abstergo which justly runs afoul of the law, and for Mktvartvelo to provide Abstergo with any tools to rectify such behaviour within a reasonable period of time. As Rokkenjima possesses some of the fiercest regulations on the protection of consumer data the Imperial Government is confident that the conduct of Abstergo is above the board 100%. A failure of Mktvartvelo authorities to comply will enact snap sanctions upon the above listed entities as a response to the government engaging in blatant anti-competitive activities.

76
Press Offices / Re: Abstergo Public Relations Office
« on: March 06, 2024, 09:37:43 PM »

Abstergo Industries Public Relations Department
For Immediate Release
March 6, 2024

Another Disappointing Decision In Mktvartvelo

Abstergo Industries once again states its disappointment and objection to the actions being taken by the authorities in Mktvartvelo. To date we have not been provided with the text of the State Security Powers Act of 1974, and as such find the operations of Abstergo essentially being targeted by a mystery provision of a law which has not been elaborated upon. We are therefore seeking, under whatever equivalent of a Freedom of Information Act may exist within Mktvartvelo, the full text of said Act. We also question whether the authorities have taken the time to review the Privacy Policy of Abstergo Industries which is based on Rokkenjiman regulations. These regulations provide some of the fiercest protections for consumers and, in case they've missed it, I've attached it for their review in full.

Quote from: Abstergo Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

Abstergo Industries is a multinational corporation that specializes in research and development of advanced technologies across a variety of fields. We value your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal data. This privacy policy explains how we collect, use, and share your personal data when you visit our website, use our services, or interact with us. This policy also informs you of your rights and choices regarding your data. Please read this policy carefully and contact us if you have any questions.

Contact details

Abstergo Industries is the data controller responsible for your personal data. You can contact us at:

Abstergo Industries
1 Abstergo Way
Exuperia, Azukishima Prefecture
First Empire of Rokkenjima
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +7966546339

This policy is effective as of January 1, 2024.

What information we collect

We collect personal data that you provide to us directly or indirectly when you visit our website, use our services, or interact with us. The types of personal data that we collect include:

- Account Information: such as your Abstergo ID (aID) and related details including email address, registered devices, account status and age.
- Contact Information: such as your email address, phone number, or postal address.
- Profile Information: such as your preferences, interests, feedback, or survey responses.
- Transaction Information: such as data about purchases of Abstergo products and services or transactions facilitated by Abstergo, including purchases on Abstergo platforms.
- Payment Information: such as your method of payment, billing address, such as bank details, credit, debit or other payment information.
- Technical Information: such as your IP address, browser type, device type, operating system, or location.
- Usage Information: such as your browsing behavior, page views, clicks, or downloads.
- Marketing data: such as your preferences for receiving marketing communications from us.

We collect personal data from various sources, such as:

- Directly from you: when you fill out forms, register for an account, make a purchase, subscribe to our newsletter, contact us, or participate in our promotions, surveys, or contests.
- Automatically from our website: when you visit our website, we use cookies, pixels, web beacons, or other similar technologies to collect and store information about your device, browser, and online activity if you have opted in during the creation of your Abstergo ID or, in the absence of an aID, via Informed Consent prompts as required by Rokkenjiman law. You can learn more about how we use cookies and how to manage your cookie settings in our Cookie Policy.
- From third parties: when you interact with our social media pages, or when we receive information from our service providers, partners, affiliates, or public sources.

We collect personal data only when we have a legal basis to do so, such as:

- Consent: when you give us your explicit and informed consent to process your personal data for a specific purpose, such as sending you marketing emails or using cookies on our website. You can withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us or following the instructions in our communications.
- Contract: when we need to process your personal data to perform a contract with you or to take steps at your request before entering into a contract, such as delivering the products or services that you ordered from us.
- Legitimate interest: when we have a legitimate business interest to process your personal data, and our interest is not overridden by your rights and interests, such as improving our website, services, or security, or conducting market research or analysis if you have opted in during the creation of your Abstergo ID or, in the absence of an aID, via Informed Consent prompts as required by Rokkenjiman law.
- Legal obligation: when we need to process your personal data to comply with a legal or regulatory obligation, such as responding to a court order, a subpoena, or a request from a government authority.

Why we collect the data

We use the personal data that we collect for various purposes, such as:

- To provide our services: we use your personal data to provide, maintain, and improve our services, such as processing your orders, delivering your products, managing your account, responding to your inquiries, or providing customer support.
- To personalize your experience: we use your personal data to tailor our website and services to your preferences, interests, and needs, such as displaying relevant content, offers, or recommendations, or remembering your settings and choices as per your consent preferences.
- To communicate with you: we use your personal data to communicate with you about our website, services, promotions, surveys, or contests, or to send you newsletters, updates, or other marketing communications that you have requested or consented to receive from us.
- To protect our business and users: we use your personal data to protect our business, website, services, and users from fraud, abuse, unauthorized access, or illegal activity, such as verifying your identity, detecting and preventing security breaches, or enforcing our terms and conditions.
- To comply with the law: we use your personal data to comply with our legal or regulatory obligations, such as reporting to tax authorities, cooperating with law enforcement, or responding to legal claims or requests.

We use personal data only for the purposes for which we collected it, unless we reasonably consider that we need to use it for another reason that is compatible with the original purpose. If we need to use your personal data for an unrelated purpose, we will notify you and explain the legal basis that allows us to do so, and to allow your objection prior to such use.

How we protect the data

We take appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal data from unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss. We use encryption, authentication, backup, or other methods to secure the data that we collect and store. We also limit access to your personal data to our employees, contractors, and agents who have a business need to know. They are subject to a duty of confidentiality and must only process your personal data in accordance with our instructions.

We retain your personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which we collected it, including for the purposes of satisfying any legal, accounting, or reporting requirements. When we no longer need your personal data, we delete or anonymize it in a secure manner.

Biometric data (such as that utilized for Secure Unlock and fingerprint scans) are stored and processed on-device via the Secured Integrated Memory Processor. This data remains on the device and is not accessible by Abstergo. Voice data is processed by the SIMP with speech anonymization processes being applied before voice related functions or requests are forwarded to Abstergo servers.

Who we share the data with

We do not sell your personal data to any third parties. We only share your personal data with your consent or as required by law. The categories of third parties that we share your personal data with include:

- Service providers: we share your personal data with our service providers who help us with our business operations, such as hosting, payment processing, analytics, email delivery, or customer service. We require our service providers to respect the privacy of your personal data and to use it only for the purposes for which we disclose it to them.
Authorities and regulators: we share your personal data with authorities and regulators when we have a legal obligation or a legitimate interest to do so, such as complying with a court order, a subpoena, or a request from a government agency, or protecting our rights, property, or safety, or the rights, property, or safety of others.
- Other users: When you choose to participate in our social media pages, forums, blogs, or other interactive features, or when you post reviews, testimonials, or feedback on our website or services, please note that any information that you share publicly may be seen, collected, or used by anyone, and we are not responsible for the privacy of such information. You should exercise caution and discretion when disclosing your personal data online.

What rights you have over the data

You have certain rights and choices regarding your personal data, depending on the applicable laws and regulations in your jurisdiction. These rights may include:

- Access: you have the right to request access to your personal data that we hold, and to receive a copy of it in a commonly used format.
- Correction: you have the right to request that we correct any inaccurate or incomplete personal data that we hold about you.
- Deletion: you have the right to request that we delete your personal data that we hold, unless we have a legal reason to keep it.
- Restriction: you have the right to request that we restrict the processing of your personal data, for example, if you contest the accuracy or the lawfulness of the data, or if you need us to retain the data for a legal claim.
- Objection: you have the right to object to the processing of your personal data, for example, if you do not want us to use your data for direct marketing purposes, or if you do not agree with our legitimate interest as the basis for the processing.
- Withdrawal of consent: you have the right to withdraw your consent at any time, if you have given us your consent to process your personal data for a specific purpose. This will not affect the lawfulness of the processing that we carried out before you withdrew your consent.
- Data portability: you have the right to request that we transfer your personal data to another data controller, or to provide you with a copy of your data in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format, if the processing is based on your consent or a contract, and is carried out by automated means.
- Complaint: you have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority, if you believe that we have violated your data protection rights, or if you are not satisfied with how we have handled your personal data.

To exercise any of your rights, please contact us using the contact details provided above. We will respond to your request within a reasonable time frame, and in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations. We may ask you to provide proof of your identity, or other information, to verify your request and to protect your privacy. We may also charge a reasonable fee, or refuse to act on your request, if it is manifestly unfounded, excessive, or repetitive.

How we update the policy

We may update this policy from time to time to reflect changes in our business, the law, or our data practices. We will post the updated policy on our website, and indicate the date of the last revision. On aOS and nexus devices a notification will be provided prior to any updates going into effect. We encourage you to review this policy periodically to stay informed of how we collect, use, and share your personal data. If we make any material changes to this policy, we will notify you by email, push notification on aOS and nexus devices or by other means, as required by law. Your continued use of our services after we update the policy will constitute your acceptance of the changes.

Abstergo Industries shall naturally pursue its right to appeal via the Courts and is considering options via the MCUR which guarantees the principle to the right of a fair trial, a right which extends beyond criminal law. We have also communicated our concerns to the Imperial Government which is undertaking an investigation as to whether these actions are born of some protectionist policies by Mktvartvelo. We understand a statement from the Imperial Government on their intents there should be released at some point in the near future.

77
Convention Centre / Re: Association Fest 2024
« on: March 05, 2024, 08:26:25 PM »
Name of Act Babymetal
Nation of Origin Rokkenjima
Track One Babymetal - BxMxC
Track Two Babymetal - Megitsune
Track Three Babymetal - Doki Doki ☆ Morning
Track Four Babymetal - Headbanger

Name of Act hanabie
Nation of Origin Rokkenjima
Track One hanabie - we love sweets
Track Two hanabie - Pardon Me, I Have To Go Now
Track Three Limp Bizkit with Yukina - Break Stuff

Name of Act Nemophila
Nation of Origin Rokkenjima
Track One Nemophila - Revive
Track Two Nemophila - Zen
Track Three Nemophila - Orian

Name of Act Evanescence
Nation of Origin Rokkenjima
Track One Evanesence - Yeah Right
Track Two Evanescence - Bring Me To Life
Track Three] Sweet Sacrifice
Track Four Evanescence - Sweet Sacrifice

78
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« on: March 04, 2024, 11:56:30 PM »
"Shall we take part ourselves, then?" Kado said with a pause followed by a grin. "By the Goddesses it's been too long since I've done field work, and to look the sons-a-bitches directly in the eyes, my Spidey-senses are tingling here. You down?" he asked with a grin.
Kyoko paused for a moment, considering the ramifications proposed to her, before simply nodding and adding, "Do it. Asuna's tough, she'll face whatever winds are at her face and brush them off to the side without a care in the world. My girl's got this," she continued with a smile.

79
Vignettes / Re: The Castle On The Hill
« on: March 04, 2024, 11:41:02 PM »
Location: Pyrena Castle, Residential Suite, Lucinda's Quarters
Time: 2:15 AST

"Hey," Beatrice said as she closed the door behind her, two days after the incident in her quarters. "Hey," Lucinda said without emotion. Beatrice took a seat next to her and put her arm around her before pulling her in for a forceful hug. "I don't have anything else to say beyond I'm sorry.....and I might of had INIS use their capabilities to cancel your replacement for the TV you destroyed because I'll replace it myself. Look, Luci," she said raising her eyes to her own with her hand on Lucinda's chin, "I get it, I get why you were angry, and as always you somehow ended up looking out for me in the end. But I'm not Empress anymore," she took in a breath, "it's Asuna's feelings toward the Morelanders you have to think about and, to be honest, being a Borland sympathizer isn't going to win her any friends. It will earn her enemies, certainly, so while I in some ways share your reservations on this issue, we have to do what's best for my little girl, and that's supporting her and what she has set as her goals. The Borlanders didn't have a Beatrice Anselmo to rock the clock of the Ironsides, they lost, and in that the future from that point belonged to the Ironsides. I trust your character and so," she said looking to the pygmy hedge hog Lucinda had adopted with a pause, "Baxter JR," Lucida sighed, "don't take his life as being in vain. It seems he introduced you to empathy, embrace that and in that, a bit of him lives on into the future. Little Baxter JR is certainly more cute than your plants," Beatrice said as she went over to his enclosure and made silly noises his way, which prompted Lucinda to stop her, "You're disturbing his normal routine, I appreciate your affection but it is not necessary at this moment."

"Sorry," Beatrice said as she sneaked a berry into Baxter JR's enclosure with a knowing grin while whispering "Aunty Beatrice's got you", which he readily consumed. "But thank you," Lucinda replied eventually. "I get it, I do, but this is ultimately your fault. You befriended them without taking into full consideration that they might just be bad guys too; Barren wasn't a bad guy in my book." "And while I respect that,"Beatrice sighed, "it's irrelevant, wholly irrelevant, and I promise I'll support you all that you need right now but, as far as the Imperial Rokkenjiman Government is concerned, East Moreland eliminated a terrorist. That's what you, and I, must support for Asuna to succeed. Are you capable of holding your emotions back," she said with a light touch to her chest, "to see Asuna ultimately succeed?"

"Her life is my oath, I can separate my feelings from my obligations," Lucinda said with a measure of reservation. "Oh Luci," Beatrice said as she squeezed Lucinda, "if I weren't a married woman, you know you'd have my heart, I'm sorry that didn't quite track as we thought on the playground in our younger days. You know I always had an eye for you, and you a slot in my heart, but," Lucinda would interrupt her with a surprise kiss, which left the two most shocked equally. "I'm sorry," Lucinda said suddenly, "please leave now. I'm nearly through my mandatory period as stated by Kado and I'd like to get back to life beyond these walls. You complicate that objective..."

"I understand, Luci," Beatrice said as she rose and made the motions to leave, turning at the last moment to add, "but please know I love you, you're my soulmate in so many ways, and  I'm sorry, you're my muse, my inspiration, I'm sorry, I have to go," she said as she finally pushed the door open and left. "I feel the same," Lucinda said with a smile once the door closed, "and I hate that we're in the timeline I get to watch you have a family and a happy life whereas here I am," she motioned, "killing people with their own intestinal cords. I hate this life, I despise being a tool of violence, I hate all of it but as it's for you," she paused, "it's worth it."

80
Diplomacy and Events / Re: An Inquiry To King Aldwin VI of Weißenwald
« on: March 04, 2024, 10:40:33 PM »

His Majesty King  Aldwin VI and the broader COSNAT membership;

I am humbled to see such a reply to my inquiry, indeed it may be more than I initially expected. I shall keep my commentary limited at this stage, however I wished to state the fullest respect of the Clysperi Kingdom for the membership criteria set forth by the Council; it would be inappropriate for Clysperis to request any form of membership and I would not dare attempt to change or alter the course you've set forth for yourselves. While I feel we have shared similar experiences, for different reasons, in our relations with the broader world around us Clysperis itself is not a small nation, but I feel we are a nation that shares an understanding unique to those not in the stratosphere of nations such as East Moreland, Rokkenjima, Fusan, etc. These shared experiences, a perspective that is often overlooked on the international stage, is something which drew me toward the membership of the Council. While we may not be small we share, I feel, more in common with you than nations such as those mentioned just previously.

As to the King's personal concerns I wish to ensure that I have thought of these. I find much sentiment in the quote he shared, and while there is much we do not share that merely means there is much we may learn from each other, and a path to friendship with each member of the Council is something I look forward to embarking upon. All too often the powers of Mundus view differences as a means to effect conflict, whereas I view them as a means to effect understanding. I have, in the past, dropped the ball there, especially in regards to my comments on the Abrahamic Declaration and toward Abrahamic nations themselves; those statements were made in passion, they were ignorant, and I apologize for them and recant them. At the same time, I would point to the co-existence of three major faiths in Clysperis (Kemetic Orthodoxy, Islam and Manism) as a redeeming quality which shows that, despite that moment of ignorance, in practice and actions I have proven toward an arc of acceptance and am willing to recognize where I have erred, and am willing to correct the consequences of past ignorance.

Accompanying me to the King Lothar VIII Research Station, Hygelac shall be Vizier Apherumes. His position is one which may act with the full sanction of the Pharaoh, whose words may be considered as originating from the Pharaoh, and whose signature carries the same legal right and status as my own. This will, I feel, ensure that Clysperi cultural and spiritual aspects may not intrude or impose unjustly upon those of other cultures and spiritual beliefs. I look forward to seeing what the response is from the broader COSNAT community and, hopefully, also to a fruitful meeting with you all.

Yours;

Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re, Sovereign of Sovereigns, Divine of Appearance, Beloved of Amun, Chosen of Ra, Lord of the Three Lands, Ruler of Justice like Ra, High Priest of Every Temple, the Eye of Horus, Voice of Ma'at, Satisfied is the heart of Ra.

81
Diplomacy and Events / An Inquiry To King Aldwin VI of Weißenwald
« on: March 03, 2024, 10:27:58 PM »

Your Majesty,

I would wish to offer my congratulations, albeit late, on the success of the Council of Small Nations. I have followed the developments surrounding the Council and, while the Kingdom of Clysperis is just over twice the size mandated for membership, I feel that the experiences of small nations and the Kingdom are similar; like those of the Council the Kingdom has shared experiences with those nations larger, and more entrenched so to say, that those outside of that coterie have not, at least not within recent memory, experienced themselves. It is for these reasons that I wish to speak with you to explore a few options which, if such desires are shared within the Council, for a relationship of cooperation and partnership with the Kingdom. It is indeed with a sense of hesitation that I broach this topic, mindful that the Council did not have a nation such as the Kingdom in mind in its formation. Thus it is with respect and understanding I will respond if this inquiry is not appropriate.

While the Kingdom may be a "larger" nation, we share the concerns as espoused by the Council, we too desire a more fair, equitable and multi-polar Mundus, and one which sees that nations are not respected because they are great in size of population, economy or military capacity, but that the nations of Mundus are respected through a mutual respect of sovereignty, a respect which sees the differences between peoples and nations not as something which should be a source for conflict, but as something which should instead be celebrated.

I hope that we may be able to meet to discuss the ideas I am proposing however, as I stated earlier, if they are inappropriate to the vision you have I shall take no offense if you decline them at this stage and would be open to exploring options of a more bilateral manner directly between Clysperis and Weißenwald if that's something you would be more comfortable with. Whatever path you set forth from here, I will be looking forward to your reply and the opportunity to explore a path of coordination between our nations and people, regardless of the final shape that path should take.

Yours;

Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re, Sovereign of Sovereigns, Divine of Appearance, Beloved of Amun, Chosen of Ra, Lord of the Three Lands, Ruler of Justice like Ra, High Priest of Every Temple, the Eye of Horus, Voice of Ma'at, Satisfied is the heart of Ra.

82
Press Offices / Re: Press Office of Social Media
« on: March 02, 2024, 10:52:20 PM »




83
Vignettes / Re: "We Stand On Guard For Thee"
« on: March 01, 2024, 09:35:01 PM »
Location: Kōshioka Naval Base, Fukadomari
Time: 10:28 AST

magicSpell.activate('unicornRainbowBlast')

Sophia looked over the line of code several times. Simple and brief, it wouldn't usually be of interest to the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy let alone the Imperial Government, perhaps in other circumstances it would be a line from a game. Yet the implications of this line of code was known to many who had an understanding of the Hakken Program, a whimsical code for the protocol to handle an unmanned Hakken shuttle in which every other protocol had gone awry and a safe re-entry was deemed impossible. Naturally the explosive solution had been designed in a time before satellites which could manipulate other objects in space existed yet, to this day, the code remained, and on February 20th at 5:39 PM, it was transmitted to Ensei utilizing steganography to obscure its presence. "Are you sure, absolutely sure, that this is what happened?" Sophia asked with Kado at her side and <0 present via a video call. "It took some poking around, looking in places where others didn't think to but it's there, clear as day, in the carrier wave. It's not a physical imperfection or other complication which brought Ensei down, but an act taken with purpose," <0 replied.

Kado then took to his feet, with a series of graphics displayed behind him on a screen. "Certainly the ISEA team knew of the existence of unicornRainbowBlast," he began, "but then again, so did the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces. We're talking about a Republican-era space program," he continued, "and one of their objectives was the realization of, and I'm paraphrasing here, a platform with which to place massive experimental laser weapons into low-Mundus orbit to destroy enemy missiles from a distance measuring several thousands of miles. There was also concern that a competing power could utilize such an orbiter to essentially dive bomb nuclear weapons upon Pyrettania, fears which thankfully proved to be unfounded. In coordination with <0, the INIS is confident in its assessment that those who utilized the carrier wave to transmit that command originated in Imperial High Command." Kado could almost see the colour drain from Sophia's face as she mustered the words "...but by the Goddesses, why?"

"I'm not glad given the topic of discussion mind you, that you asked, but glad that you asked the question," Kado said as an image of the Empress filled the screen behind him. "Ten lives lost, a burden which the Empress has had thrust upon her; if you're looking to break an empathetic spirit what better way to do it than such a loss of life? It is my theory that someone within Imperial High Command hopes to "re-break" the Empress, though I think they failed in that aspect; she didn't break as I even I thought she would and has embraced the role of consoler-in-chief instead of focusing on how the losses personally weigh upon her, herself. This will, no doubt, frustrate those who sent the command in the first place and who knows how they'll act in this unexpected scenario. I make no exaggeration in stating this may be the most crucial period for Rokkenjiman security since the days of the Anselmo Restoration itself," Kado sighed as he concluded.

"I see, thank you both," Sophia said as she turned to Kado, "and when do we inform the Empress?" "We don't, not at this stage anyway," came his quick reply. "I will need your authorization to share these findings with the Achkaerinese, however and, while I don't enjoy hiding things from the Empress, she can't know of this subterfuge at this stage, that might be the key in breaking her and I'm doing all that is within my power to see her reign is successful. This information only goes to those who I trust to hold it, do I have your concurrence and support in that decision?" Kado asked, to which Sophia offered a nod. "Thank you, that's all I needed," he said as he effected the transfer of information to his Achkaerinese counterparts. "How did Rowe produce such an impressive officer given his own failures to the Crown he would otherwise serve?" he asked, mostly rhetorically.

"He taught me what I know," Sophia said with a stare, "but my conviction is mine and mine alone, it's something he could never hope to own. It's what separates us," she continued, "and I'm more disappointed in him than you are. I promise you, however, I know full well that the IRN has traditionally been the shield and sword of the Empress and, even if the threat is coming from within the house so to day, I'll dispatch them all the same. I stand on guard for the Empress, not for Rowe, understand?" she asked as Kado took to leave. "I won't forget it," he said with a partial bow, "and with that in mind I'm certain that taking this bastard down will be enjoyed equally by both of us."

"Good day, Kado," she simply replied as he made his exit.

84
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Ironside-Rhodes Hotline
« on: February 28, 2024, 11:53:41 PM »

United States approaches Portworth

Unbeknownst to most the Empress had cleared her schedule and soon found herself nearing Portworth, East Moreland. Personally taking to the radio she sighed, "I'm sorry for the unexpected arrival, but I wasn't able to personally accept your invitation when it was offered, and I apologize for that. My aunt relayed your invotatopm though so, I've found my way here. Do we have permission to dock?" she would ask. She then looked to the captain, "hold our position until we hear back from them," she paused, "and thank you for diverting from our original planned voyage. "I don't know entirely what is on the other side but," she looked to the side, "Princess Freya came to Rokkenjima for me, it's only natural I should return the favour. I just hope I don;t have all that weight to carry on my back this time around," she continued as she massaged her back.

"That was some truly heavy stuff," she said to a petty officer who chuckled, "don't judge me." "I am sorry, your Imperial Highness, please don't see this as disrespec..." "Calm yourself, I won't see any action against you," Asuna said with a smile. "Just don't doubt me again," she said with a gaze which could kill, causing him to stumble through his words more, which ultimately made her chuckle even more. "Stand at ease, and please recognize when you're being hazed in the future?" to which he nodded. "Good," Asuna would say, "let us then dock."

85
Vignettes / "We Stand On Guard For Thee"
« on: February 28, 2024, 12:08:24 AM »
"We Stand On Guard For Thee"
Stories From Vice Admiral Sophia Forrester

Location: Imperial High Command
Time: 7:45 AST

She knew that a reckoning would be coming, and today was the day. Less than forty eight hours following the operation against Camp Taryō Rowe was looking for answers. "How did this occur without my knowledge?" he asked as he slammed his fist against the desk before pausing. "Did the years we served together mean nothing, the loyalty, the trust? Not even speaking of the disrespect of the Empress declining to meet with me, instead having me speak with the fucking Seaforthian," he struck the desk again. "I've been humiliated publicly, twice, not to mention the usurping of my authority over the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces. That's three humiliations," he trailed off, looking toward the sea, "at least two of which you've had a hand in."

"Grand Marshall," she began, "even you must realize that the SIS overstepped its boundaries in this case. What other action could Pyrettania do but see that the law of the land was enforced? At the end of the day the operation was legally sanctioned, done by the book, though if it makes you feel better I only played my role, as expected, when orders come from the Throne itself. I don't need to remind you that the Empress, not Grand Marshall, is the commander-in-chief of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces. Would you have had me commit insubordination?" she let the last word hang in the air for a moment.

"No," Alex replied after a moment and a swirl of the whiskey in his glass, "I suppose I couldn't demand that of you. You did what you had to do to retain your commission, and in doing so saw that I have at least one friend in the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy. I can't trust Admiral Fujioka, but you," he said as he placed a hand on her shoulder, "we've spilled blood together, shed blood together, I should be commending you instead of berating you for this. You play the game of being on a short leash rather well, and I thank you for that. Soon we won't have to play such games," he said with a grin, "you're relieved."

After she left his office she took the short trip back to mainland Azukishima where Kado was waiting. "So?" he asked as she approached him, "So," she sighed, "he's not the man I served with if that's what you wanted to know. He's there physically, his voice is the same, but he's holding back just enough from me that I can tell something is not quite right inside. That's all I can help you with at this stage, Director." "Maintain control of Camp Taryō for the rest of the week," would come his reply, "my people have been pouring over many reports that need to be reviewed, documented and duly investigated. I recognize this must be difficult for you..." he continued before being interrupted, "no, in fact, it's not. I swore my oath to the Empress, I'll remind you that she held her blade to my neck just as she did yours. If Sutāraito believes me to be her enemy then let her command me," she said as she placed her hand on the hilt of her sword, "and I'll take my life here and now."

"That will not be necessary," Kado said calmly, "you proved your loyalty to the Crown in Taryō. However I fear there will come a time when Rowe may issue orders that are in opposition to the desires of the Empress. Are you capable of seeing that the IRN does not dirty its hands in such a case?" he asked, to which she nodded. "I'll need Cole though," she said, "Rowe may be Grand Marshall but Cole's done so much for our forces even after his retirement, we had a sailor lose his grandmother and grandfather within the same week and he flew out to offer his condolences and comfort to them, he gets letters from the various branches and takes the time to answer each one personally; to many he's not viewed as their former commanding officer, he's Grandpa Henry. I know he was there for me when I left my husband after he had an affair when I was on a long deployment during the Themata-Warsaw conflict. He didn't know me from Adam but here he was, then Grand Marshall in the mess hall, his hand over mine as he assured me it wasn't my fault and that I deserved better, and that better was waiting for me when I got back home. If you want me to succeed in what you're hinting at, Cole is irreplaceable."

"Noted," Kado said, "and I'm sorry to hear that." "You shouldn't be," Sophia smiled as she revealed a locket from her necklace which had a photo of her current husband and herself displayed. "He writes me each day, gives me a look into life back home when I'm on deployment, and won't go to sleep if we have some silly argument, he makes it his mission to solve it before we both go to sleep. Henry was right," she said with a smile, "I deserved better and I found better." "I stand corrected, happily in this case," he said as he stood to leave. "If you have any relevant information for me in the future..." "I already know to provide it," Sophia finished his sentence. "Thank you, it makes my job easier," Kado would simply reply as he departed.

86
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« on: February 26, 2024, 11:31:54 PM »
Cole took a glance at the names, nodded, and picked up the phone aside him. "Forrester, Cole here. We'll need to make a couple of adjustments to the flight crew for the upcoming Ryūsei flight due to pick up the Jenka-Jenkinson crew. Please see that these two," he said texting her the names, "relieve whoever is slated for the assignment; this falls under your purview so take advantage of that. And yes, next time you're in Pyrettania we'll visit that cafe you've gathered an affinity for. Much catching up to do, out," he said as he hung up the phone.

"A little adjustment we had following the incident with the Fusanese," Cole continued, "responsibilities for the maintenance and security of the Imperial Ryūsei falls under Vice Admiral Forrester's portfolio. I've no questions, however I'll trust that you know what you're doing with this." He then poured himself a cup of tea before turning to Kayleigh, "Tea, before you depart?"
As his personal assistant showed Rion to his study Kado lowered his book first, then his glasses just a bit, "And here I thought I would be spending the evening reading 1984," he continued as he placed the book down on the end table. "Thank you, Shiori, if my guest should want a drink?" he said motioning to Rion, raising his eyebrow after hearing what she had asked. "I have someone who can accomplish that and," he said as he initiated a call on his aOS TV, "Hello, ol' Lessy," he said, there was no video coming from the other end, simply a generic female avatar being displayed on the screen. "Ugh, what is it now, you know I was just catching up on the latest episode of Seven Goddesses since I told you specifically this is my day," to which Kado chuckled. "My apologies my dear, but duty calls. A need has arisen for Arovia Air Traffic Control to be shut down, or at least rendered inoperable in a few days. You have any ideas how we might make that happen?"

"Are you kidding me?" <0 would ask, "you're wasting my abilities on that? They're at least a version or two behind on their software updates, the Arovi like to pinch pennies, you could achieve these results by having one of yours walk in and flip a switch," she paused. "Oh none of mine can be anywhere near this, so what you're telling me is you can bring them down?" Kado said with a chuckle. "I'll have to effect a runtime error in their systems, but I can have them knocked out for as long as you need. It'll be easier than chewing bubblegum and kicking ass, because unlike Nada I prefer to do both at the same time." "Please see that it happens, then," Kado replied, to which <0 replied "Give me the precise moment and I'll have their systems down and entirely open to you, if need be."

"And where are my manners, the very reason I called you like this," he said turning to Rion. "Rion, <0, <0, Rion." "A pleasure," <0 replied, "I do a lot of dirty work for Kado, if it involves a Rokkenjiman computer system you should be thanking me instead of him for successful results. He was fortunate to inherit me from Lucinda, but seeing someone in his apartment aside from himself and Shiori, it's good to see my Kado making frien..." and with that Kado ended the call. "She'll get the job done," he said without missing a beat, "she does have her quirks though. With that business out of the way Shiori is preparing her signature Shogayaki, and she always prepares more than the both of us can eat. You're welcome to stay and partake."

"Also," Kado said with a grin, "INIS has leaked the transfer of a high-profile prisoner, one of Rowe's, which should draw the attention of whatever mole they've worked into my organisation. The only thing is, when they stumble upon the transport, it'll be filled either with a full INIS team with at least 12 guns pointed at their heads or an INIS-Justicar team pointing at least 12 guns at their heads. We've highlighted this," he said pulling out a map and pointing to a refueling point, "as the opportune time for them to attack, and then we see which INIS agent runs to inform the conspirators for their pat on the head for a job well done. Interested in making this a collaboration?"

87
Press Offices / Re: Press Office of Social Media
« on: February 25, 2024, 08:58:59 PM »

88
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Khemnen-Valthiem Line
« on: February 25, 2024, 08:47:08 PM »

I am dispatching shipments of aid to Kalasin, some of which are via tankers and will be accompanied by an escort of the Royal Clysperi Navy. Our naval vessels will stop at the extent of Kalasin's territorial waters and will await the unloading of the tankers before escorting them back to Clysperi waters.

I remain concerned that election results have not been verified by a party which has not taken part in military operations in Kalasin, and look to you to reassure those concerns as well as joining me in a push for a cross-Aranye association to ensure that incursions by foreign powers to our continent are not necessary in the future.

Please relay my best to Peter as he continues his recovery.

Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re, Sovereign of Sovereigns, Divine of Appearance, Beloved of Amun, Chosen of Ra, Lord of the Three Lands, Ruler of Justice like Ra, High Priest of Every Temple, the Eye of Horus, Satisfied is the heart of Ra.

89
Vignettes / Re: The Castle On The Hill
« on: February 25, 2024, 08:28:47 PM »
Location: Pyrena Castle, Residential Suite
Time: 1:53 AST

"Usually when such news is reported you break out of your shell, have a celebratory drink, yet today on the announcement of the death of one of Mundus' most prolific terrorists you find yourself sullen? It's hard to understand you at times, Luci," Beatrice sighed as she enjoyed a toast with Alex, which prompted Lucinda to rise from her seat and punch the television, incidentally where David's face had been prior to turning into an abstract art piece. "Luci!" Beatrice shouted with some confusion before being allowed to continue. "It's so easy for you, isn't it, to celebrate the death of the man who saw Asuna made it home safely? Did you sit down with him, did you see the plans he had for the Principality, did you sit in a tube with crying children and uncertain parents as all manner of uncertainty flew above your heads? "You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him," a quote you would find yourself to agree with, yes?" she asked pointedly, to which Beatrice nodded.

"Tell me what possibly a pygmy hedgehog, Baxter was his name, do for Kyle, let alone anyone beyond being yet another mouth to feed and water? Yet he couldn't bear the thought of him being homeless. You know me, I have little appreciation for pets as they're unpredictable and inflict their own emotions upon you, I digress though. Unlike you I saw his humanity, I saw the other side of the civil war you cast our lot in, and perhaps the world is celebrating the death of a terrorist because people like you, the Achkaerinese, the Dartfordians and every other nation accepted the Ironside narrative of the conflict without doing their due diligence. So no," she said as she turned her head to the broken television, "I will not be celebrating this death, but I will buy you a new television, sorry," she said as she rose to leave the room, stopping as she turned the door knob.

"In the most delicate debriefing I've ever given Asuna didn't give me any inclination of maltreatment while in Kyle's company, one of his own made sure she made the trek up the road to QAMB as, how did she say it, "I looked back and he wouldn't budge until he saw the guards at the gate had me in their arms." They did that for you, with no promises of alleviating their position, knowing they'd continue to be vilified, I hope you enjoy your celebratory evening. I wish you'd have remembered the reports I sent you, perhaps your heart would be a bit softer, and I'd have the Beatrice who held East Moreland to task for assassinating a new mother instead of one who takes such pleasure in death. I've killed countless people in your name so you wouldn't know the toll I've carried to this day, in the past I celebrated such deaths to keep up appearances. But this time?" she turned the knob of the door, "I'm tired of lying to everyone and myself. It wouldn't surprise me if they broke both the letter and the spirit of the MCUR before he died, but no one will bat an eye because, "terrorist." Goodnight, Bea," she said as she left the room, leaving Beatrice and Alexander to process her words.

As she walked back to her room she met her estranged husband in the hallway. "Are you alright? You seem troubled," he said, to which Lucinda would respond with a punch to the gut before finding herself on top of him punching his face relentlessly. "I told you to leave me alone and you couldn't even do that much?" she said in between blows, only being stopped when Kado pulled her off of him. "Lucinda," he said quietly, "return to your room, now," he added when she lingered. With a tear rolling down her cheek she nodded and made her way to her room, leaving Kado to help Lucius off the floor. "She is pushing her lu..." Kado would stop him mid-sentence. "You suffered a clumsy fall, necessitating you to take a few days off from work. Do you understand me?" he asked, and when Lucius opened his mouth to offer resistance Kado made a "tsk tsk" noise. "You saw what I did to Taryō, I trust. Don't fucking trifle with me," he said as he brushed Lucius' shoulders off. "You'll be as good as new in a few days, yes?" to which Lucius simply nodded. "Good," Kado said as he turned to walk down the hallway.

Without knocking he entered Lucinda's room, "I trust that felt good," he said as he sat next to her, placing his arm around her, "I'm sure <0 is already scrubbing the footage from that camera as we speak. I know you're conflicted with this news, you saw a side of Mr. Barren none of us have seen, but we must act in ways that support the Empress in such times." Noticing Lucinda was about to speak in protest he raised his finger to her lips, "I know what you're going to say and, while you have no official standing anymore, you're bound to protect the Empress and her interests, and we both know that she has a special admiration for the Ironsides, we won't be crushing that or her ambitions to restore things between our nations. You deal with this however you need to but, as far as the Empress is concerned, you have to keep this within your heart. You try to impart upon her sympathy for Kyle and you're consigning her reign to suicide, do you understand?" to which Lucinda would over a delayed nod. "Good," he said as he stood up, "just as with Lucius you suffered a fall, so you'll be confined to your room for the next week. Do what you must in that time, process your grief, but keep your feelings to yourself. I may not have the mandate of the Rosari, but I now have purview over your previous portfolio and I will ensure that nothing derails the Empress from success. Do you understand?"

"Yes, stop repeating your questions, by the Godesses," she finally spoke. "Just had to drive the point home," Kado said as he departed.

90
International News Networks / Re: Clysperis State Media Corporation (CSMC) - The Daily Review
« on: February 25, 2024, 07:47:21 PM »


Pharaoh Dispatches Aid To Kalasin, Pauses Diplomatic And Economic Measures


The Pharaoh added that the change in posture, which came after an exchange with the Empress of Rokkenjima, would not change the Clysperi position on the military presence in Kalasin.

Pharaoh Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re has overseen some 50,000 tons released from the Clysperi Supplemental Reserve consisting of a variety of foodstuffs in addition to humanitarian supplies destined for Kalasin. In addition to the material aid a fuel tanker with 600,000 barrels of a variety of fuels along with approving a financial aid package of Đ750m. "I thought on the words of the young Empress and decided that supporting a fellow Midaranye state was a natural response; we Clysperi still bear the scars of the Soviet occupation and the acts of domestic terrorism live in more recent memory. I hope that the assistance we're dispatching helps the People of Kalasin recover from this dark chapter of history more quickly than we recovered from ours."

Addressing concerns from the Assembly of Nomes that the Pharaoh was back-tracking Pharaoh Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re reiterated that the aid operation did not repeal her concerns regarding a protracted foreign military presence in Kalasin. "It's a story as old as warfare itself," the Pharaoh shrugged, "one party is attacked, they retaliate, and the mission veers from its original intent or, in other cases, politicians back home find new manners in which to expand the scope of the operations to sustain them for just a bit longer. One need only look to Marseilles and the continued presence of Seaforthian forces how many years later? It is thus natural that the Kingdom shall,  and other Cotf Aranye nations should, expect that forces of the Coalition should remain not a moment longer than required. This would include training Kalasin forces to ensure they're capable of defending a legitimate government, whilst capable of eliminating forces which would threaten Kalasin domestically or nations abroad in the future. Foreign forces should not be present five, ten or twenty years from now, and as I've highlighted this situation showcases why Cotf Aranye needs a continental association so that we may look after our own, just as we've seen happen in Alba Karinya and Ardia."


RCN Horus and a task force will aid in the shipments from Clysperis to Kalasin.

The aid operation to Kalasin will also see the longest deployment in modern history of the Royal Clysperi Navy, with RCN Horus and her associated task force safeguarding Clysperi fuel and materials as they make their way to Kalasin. "While air routes will be used for portions of the aid portions of the aid, such as fuels, will be undertaken via the use of tanker ships. The RCN will escort this portion of the aid only to the extent of Kalasin's territorial waters, after which they shall escort the emptied tankers back to Clysperi waters," the Pharaoh explained. "As most of our commercial shipping is conducted within the Great Northern Sea and associated waters, and with incidents of piracy still in living memory, ensuring the successful delivery of aid is the highest priority of the Royal Clysperi Navy. The Kingdom looks forward to providing this aid as Kalasin regains its footing in the world."

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