The Northern Front

[Persephone]

Wraiths to undergo Traetorian Operations

Princess Aerila left her palace yesterday in order to travel to Orphela and meet with the Council of Elders. This is the first time she has left the palace in two weeks- since the last death of her last half-brother. She meet with the Council to discuss a strategy to deal with the Talaos insurgents who conducted the series of assassinations that claimed Aerila's father and 5 half-brothers' lives. The assassinations were a shock to all, and revealed the extent of power the Talaos cells within the Dynasty hold.

The Princess and the Council's meeting proved fruitful, and the Council has issued the Decree of Traetorian Mourning. The decree, signed directly by Aerila, outlines a temporary transferring of Aerila's powers to the Council of Elders until the Talaos are dealt with. In effect, this makes the Council the de facto head of the Dynasty, an unprecedented action in the history of the Confederacy. Never once has one of the sovereign states been directly controlled by the Council. Novan President Maz called the decree an "understandable but regrettable precedent that could have far reaching and long lasting consequences for all member nations of the Confederacy."

The second part of the decree details the deployment of the elite Confederate spec ops unit, the Wraiths, in Traetorian territory. The Confederate constitution clearly states that in peacetime the Confederate military is barred from entering land under control of one of the sovereign nations. In the decree, the Council states that with the Dynasty temporary under their control, Traetorian land can be considered temporary Confederate land. Once again President Maz has taken issue with this. He has already started a process of for the Decree of Traetorian Mourning to be appealed due to what he believes is an unconstitutional deployment of Confederate troops. The Falmi Chiefs are formalizing their support of his appeal and the Nintaran Low Legislative Court is forming a committee to investigate their own stance on the issue. If the League supports Maz' appeal, the decree will be censured and revoked.

Anonymous sources close to the Wraiths have said that given the political battle that is forming, the Confederate military believes that it is of the upmost importance that strikes against the Talaos insurgents began fast and hit hard. Apparently time tables are being sped up with the hope that if the decree is censured, the Wraiths will have broken the Talaos cells before being recalled back to Confederate territory. Word is that operations will began as early as tomorrow.

[Persephone]

Arctic Research and Testing Center Operational

The Grissin Arctic Research and Testing Center, also known as the GARTC, has been officially pronounced as operational. This is actually two weeks ahead of schedule and due in large part to Basilisk Industries cosponsoring GARTC alongside the Confederate government. Basilisk Industries is a Novan weapons company and the main arms dealer to the confederate military. Because of the company's close association with GARTC many speculators believe that the research center will at least partially concern weapons testing, or military applicable research.

GARTC is a relatively massive undertaking for arctic bases, currently housing about 400 individuals. It is said that as the winter months draw close this number will drop considerable, current projections say the winter crew will be about half the size. The current plan is that by this time next year, the station will be able to house over a thousand scientists and support staff, and possibly even their families. GARTC is actually outside area protected by the Treaty of Protection of Hygelac and Hrothgar, with the base being on an arctic inland 276 nm from the coastline of Hrothgar[1].

Future plans for the station are quite large. Truklon di Brunetti, current head of the Confederate Rocket Program, says the station could be a game changer in terms of a Grissin space program. The Rocket Program has been expanding in the last few years and there has been talk of it expanding into a Grissin space program. As some may know, there has been the desire for a space program for decades but lack of a viable and safe location to launch shuttles from has always halted any action. The fact is the northern coastline of the Confederacy is too heavily populated. But GARTC could to be a safe alternative.

Whatever the future for GARTC may be, it stands to be a center of modern Grissin science.

1.	From my understanding this should make it so the station doesn't break any international laws/agreements. Any IC issues with the station are warranted and welcome but OOC-ly its not my intention to be going against international laws.

[Persephone]

2020 National Gungi Tournament Season to Begin

With the month of August nearing its end, the fall and winter seasons are about to begin. In the Confederacy this time is the beginning of the Gungi calendar. Gungi is one the most prized national pastimes, with the Winter Solstice Game being the most watched yearly event in the Confederacy. Gungi is a strategy board game originally created by Talaos philosophers. It is said that Talaos dominated as the master of Gungi of a thousand years. Eventually it reached the point where neighboring cultures refused to even challenge a Talaos master. This continued until the year 74 CE with the young girl Amutu, an Avatar of the Twin.

Amutu challenged an arrogant Talaos Gungi master and easily defeated him. In ancient times, the title of Gungi Master was transferred by defeating one who currently held the title. As such, she became the first non-Talaos Master. Word quickly spread and every Gungi Master travelled to witness her skill. Eventually she had defeated every other Gungi Master, stripping them of their titles. She then travelled the lands gathering individuals from across the Grissin peoples. They were a strange company- a bandit lord, a widow, a young mother, a Cadre monk, a blind boy, and a second son prince. They became Amutu's Gungi students, each one eventually defeating her in a game of Gungi and claiming the rank of Master.

Since then Gungi has been extremely popular. Until the national reform in 1937, there were over 200 Gungi Masters, each one overseeing a different discipline of strategy. The reform condensed the rank of Master to just 6 individuals, a nod to Amutu's six students. The reform also formalized the yearly calendar of professional Gungi. At the end of August, the tournament season would begin. The season would contain a series of tournaments, ending in the Gungi Champions Series. In order to qualify for the series, a player must either hold the rank of Master or win first place in a previous tournament of that year. The Champions Series ends on the night of the Winter Solstice and the winner of the final match can qualify for the rank of Gungi Master. This calendar allows the high ranking players to spend the rest of the year in isolation, perfecting new strategies and forms.

The GCS has been dominated by the current Gungi Masters, the Winter Solstice Game has been a contest between two Masters since 2013. Meaning the current 6 Masters have all held the title for at least 7 years. But as with every year, there are many hopefuls and perhaps this will be the year that a new Gungi Master will be crowned.

[Persephone]

Nova City Granted Special Autonomous Region (SAR) Status

The Nova Republic has longstanding been the premier financial and business center of the Confederacy. Once this meant that Nova City was the Confederacy's most industrial region. But as the world's economy changed and shifted, so did Nova City. The Republic thrives off of an extremely well-developed service economy centered around Nova City. It also boasts the lwest taxation in the country and the largest international financial sector. But in recent years many businesses and corporations have sighted the that the city being forced to follow national standards, including its tax rates, have slowed its economic growth. Most of these complaints centers around the desire to turn Nova City into a center of international finance.

Bygone are the days where the city is the center of industry, but the rest of the Confederacy cannot claim the same. Critiques of the current system of national regulations say that the Confederacy's economic assets and its industrial prowess (the Confederacy has one of the largest populations in Mundus at 445 Million) are not being managed correctly. Because of the long-maintained isolation, the Grissin economy and its companies struggle in international trade and deals. These critiques believe that Nova City could be where the southern and Confederate businesses find common ground. Another important incentive to southern companies is that the Confederate markets are untapped by foreigners. Its a waiting gold mine. 

Proponents of removing national regulations from the Republic have formed the backbone of President Maz' support. Financing his most of his campaign expenses at the cost of favorable policy and lobbying of the Council of Elders. Maz has made little ground until recently. The Council has agreed to grant Nova City status as a special autonomous region, giving it complete independence from the Confederacy in almost everything but name. Already, promises of lower taxation across the board have been made. This includes removal of taxation of revenue made outside its borders. Maz has also previously promised that if given the chance capital gains, interest, and dividends will no longer be taxed.

But there is some confusion and bureaucracy to be sorted. Nova City has been made into a SAR, but not the Nova Republic. Which is genuinely confusing because the majority of the Republic's population (47 Million) is in Nova City (35.1 Million). Does this mean that the city is now independent of the Republic? Early reports and speculators say no, Nova will remain united but the territory outside the city will still have to follow national regulations. Whatever the case may be, Nova City has set its sights on joining the southern economy. 

[Persephone]

Death Toll in the Traetor Dynasty Mounts

While Confederate anti-insurgent operations have only be in affect for 8 days, the death roll across the country continues to mount. The single deadliest event was the recent bombing of the Central Elliot Bank in Tasari. The bombing took 11 lives and injured 40 more. The Talaos terrorist cell known as the Phoenix Legion claimed responsibility for the attack. All totaled, there have been 120 deaths across the Dynasty- 21 Confederate soldiers, 64 Talaos insurgents and 37 civilians.

Novan President Maz has maintained his protests of the Confederate military's presence. A formal complaint of unconstitutional action has been filed by the President, the Falmi Chiefs and the Nintaran Legislative Courts. Confederate oversight committees are set to review and as early as tomorrow could order a ceasing of military activity until the review is complete. It was believed that President Maz would represent his complaint himself infront of the committee, but with the recent bureaucratic chaos from Nova City being declared a SAR, he has been forced to appoint a proxy.

Instability in the Dynasty has reached the point that many fear the Traetor Open, the second Gungi tournament of the season, will be a major target for insurgents. As such, for the first time in history, the tournament has been moved from Tasari to the capital, Orphela. The previsionary royal Traetorian government organized until Princess Aerila assumes the duties of her office have taken a hardline position, asking the Council of Elders to declare a new Talaos War. By doing so, it would remove any question of legality to Confederate forces being stationed in Dynasty territory, and would allow of an increase in the military pressure against the insurgents.

While Talaos Wars are common throughout the history of the region, the Confederacy has recently enjoyed an unprecedented era of peace. The last Talaos War ended in 1977, with the collapse of the Neo Talaos Republic. Since then, with the no formal Talaos nation rising to take its place, the Confederacy has only had to deal with small hardliner and extremist groups. Most of been underfunded and disorganized, and as such posed little threat. But recent Wraith raids in the Dynasty have proven that the current insurgency is an alliance of Talaos extremist cells working together and being bankrolled by a mysterious benefactor. If a Talaos War is declared, it will be a new kind of war, one not against a nation.

[Persephone]

Oversight Committee Hearings Begin

The Confederate Oversight Committee is officially in assembly. A massive undertaking, Special Delegates have been called from all across the Confederacy in this historic undertaking. The last time the Oversight Committee was called into session was in 1979 in review of the distribution and governance of the lands belonging to the former Neo Talaos Republic. The Northern Front's Vimni, one of the 7 reporters allowed to observe had this to say-

"You can feel the presence of history in the air. Its almost as if the air is pressing on you the importance of being here. There is a somberness and a quietness through out the meeting hall. Even during the breaks, everyone is whispering as if the don't want to disturb the room. You just know that everyone is taking this matter with the upmost respect."

In the crowd throughout the room an unprecedented three members of the Council of Elders were in attendance to observe the proceedings, Traetorian Duchess Ciklo, Nintaran Representative Zendox and the Novan Secretary of Centralization Azori. This is the most Elders ever gathered in one location outside of Council meetings in the history of the Confederacy. As expected, President Maz, the man who called for the hearing, was not in attendance.

The hearing is set to last for at least two week. The first day was relatively slow. The Oversight Judiciary Committee introduced themselves and called the roll of the Special Delegates (all were present). Afterwards a number of constitutional historians and analysts were called to lecture on constitutional law and the intent behind certain wordings and articles. Towards the end of the day a series of historians were called to discuss numerous historical events where the constitution was changed, broken, or amended. These historians delved deep, discussing the state of affairs and society, the affects politically and economically, and the biographies of the individuals involved.

Tomorrow the Committee is set to hear about the current situation in the Dynasty. It is believed that the day will be dominated by intelligence officers and military commanders, but unfortunately it is the one day the press will not be allowed and no itinerary has been given. If the day moves fast enough the Special Delegates could vote as early as tomorrow on wither Confederate military forces with have to cease current operations in Traetor. 

[Persephone]

Traetor Open Begins in Orphela

The Traetor Open, the first Gungi tournament of the season, begins today. For the first time in the tournaments history, it will actually not take place in the Dynasty. Due to recent unrest and and threats against the event by Talaos terrorists, organizers requested governments aid in the colossal task off relocating to the capital city. Despite the rush and many potential problems, organizers said they are extremely pleased with the outcome so far. Game Master Zaidu, the man in charge of the whole event, had this to say, "we've never had to deal with something like this. A week out from the tournament, having to relocate is something that would give any event organizer nightmares. And as the first Gungi tournament, it is expected that the Taetor Open be pristine and without a hitch. That's the only way to start the season. Thankfully the Confederate government aided in every way possible, including footing the bill. Had they not, we would have gone way over budget. I wish all the players luck and hope all the spectators enjoy. Thank you to all who support us every year."

While the Traetor Open is the first tournament of the season, it is also were the majority of newcomers try to prove themselves. Many of the more experienced Gungi players don't join the tournament circuit until later in the season. And members of the Cadre don't send their own representatives until halfway through the season, in the Orphela Series. As such, there is a lot of excitement and energy as any of these players could be the unexpected breakout star of the year.

[Persephone]

Traetor Open Enters Finals

Due to the nature of this tournament, there are no upsets and few crowd favorites. At least at the beginning. As the majority of participants are new hopefuls or amateur rookies, every player is an underdog. Heartbreak and emotions run high because the Traetor Open can end careers just as easily as it starts them. And after a grueling week, the Finals are set to begin.

The Traetor Open is the longest Gungi tournament, designed to be a more forgiving environment. A single lucky game won't make or destroy anyone's chances. Here it's about consistency and endurance. Each day, players play dozens of games, scoring points for wins and the manner in which they win. Closer games score fewer points. Every day, the players with the lowest total score are sent home. Meaning the competition and stakes get increasingly tougher as time goes on. The last two days of the Traetor Open before the Finals are referred to as the “Boiler”, due to the combination of fatigue, stress and pressure many players feel. Usually by this time, the crowd favorites have been decided.

With the six finalists declared, they will get two days of rest before the Finals begin- a single elimination bracket. The winner secures a spot at this year’s GCS. The top four are invited to the rest of the tournament circuit for the rest of the season, and the least two have to wait until next year. This year there are two finalists that have drawn major attention of viewers. Both are warped in controversy. The first is the overall top point scorer of the tournament, Kassi.

Kassi early one drew high praise early on from the audience for her sportsmanship and kind conduct. In addition, she is only 19 years old, meaning if she does join the tournament circuit, she is primed to break a number of age records. Many thought that Kassi would be the darling of the Traetor Open, and this year's Gungi season. But unfortunately, she lost most of her fanbase after it became known that she is Talaos. Few Talaos compete in the professional Gungi scene and few get very far. Kassi is already the most successful in decades. And maybe if this was last year people wouldn't care as much about her heritage. But with the rising unrest in Traetor and the increasing attack by insurgents, tensions are running high. Not to mention that while the tournament is being held in Orphela, it is the Traetor Open and most of the Traetor Dynasty have lost their lives in the past six months. Despite this there has been a rallying cry for politics to be kept out of Gungi, and for Kassi to be judged on her own merits and not by her heritage. She is also beloved by Talaos fans across the country.

The second controversial figure is actually well-liked by most fans. Like Kassi, Tezisi is also 19 years old. But he is much more striking to looking at in his black Cadre robes. Tezisi is not a Cadre monk, but rather a member of the infamous Temple of Silence. The Temple filed a special petition asking for permission that he be allowed to compete in the Traetor Open. This is because since the Temple is no longer considered a Cadre, it cannot just send players to compete during the midseason. Tezisi is not allowed to speak and is accompanied by another member of the Temple at all times, although she appears around his age, nothing else is known about her. He was doing relatively okay in the tournament, scoring near the middle of the back at the end of each day. Until the Boiler. This is when Tezisi proved himself and became the crowd favorite. While every other player slowed down, their games taking longer, their point earnings decreasing as games were closer, and fatigue affecting their ability and decision making, Tezisi went on a rampage. He outperformed everyone else in the tournament, ending as with the second highest overall points. There has been huge speculation as to the reasons behind this- was he purposely underperforming? Does it have to do with his training at the Temple, is he adapted to performing while exhausted? Unfortunately, Tezisi can't answer any of these questions, only adding to his charming mystery.

In two days’ time, the Finals of the Traetor Open begins, and four will secure their place in Gungi this season, and one will ensure they will get a place at the coveted GCS.

[Persephone]

Grissin Athletes to Complete in Mundus Games

For the first time in history, the Grissin will compete in the international sensation of the Mundus Games. This year the games are being jointly held in Royal Seleucid and Tamora, members of the Midaranye region. When the member nations bid was chosen many hoped that the because Midaranye is said to contain a number of artifacts of the Twin, this might be the first Games the Confederacy participated in.[1] Unfortunately, there has been huge controversy surrounding the Games due to parts of Tamora practicing slavery and Seleucid practicing indentured servitude. Some nations such as Tytor and Rokkenjima have called for a full boycott. While the Confederate government hasn't gone this far, they have refused to sanction a Grissin team. As such, Grissin athletes have to fund all expenses out of pocket. Fortunately, through a combined effort by Asurian nobles and Novan corporations, every athlete wishing and who qualified will get the chance to compete. But most disheartening is that the athletes will compete under the Games' flag rather than the Confederate one.
 
Grissin athletes have historically done poorly internationally due to a combination of a lack of participation and differing rules and regulations. Their first real push for international participation was in the 1970s but after a series of upsets in numerous sports due to different scoring procedures and differing legalities, interest was quickly lost. Audiences didn't care to watch Grissin fail or be disqualified on technicalities. The few that stuck it out to learn and train based on international regulations ended up performing poorly domestically, a huge blow to their careers. Grissin athletes have to remain relevant in the Confederacy or they lose public interest, which could cost them their endorsement deals and sponsorships. Over the years some athletes have formed coalitions demanding that Grissin sporting federations follow the international ones. These have failed to gain any real traction or interest, mostly being seen as extremely unpatriotic.
 
The athletes competing in this year's Midaranye Games have worked intensively to be top level competitors both domestically and internationally. In many cases, going from competition to competition constantly shifting rules. For example, in the case of the gymnasts, they have spent the last year constantly switching between two different routines in order to get high scores with both Grissin and international judges. Whether this is attainable remains to be seen. If the Authorized Griss Athletes are able to cause an upset and win a number of medals, this dual approach could become the future of Griss sporting.

1.

OOC NOTE: Haven't fully fleshed this out, but because of religious issues Grissin avoid most the south, believing it to be dominated by dark energy, but there are pockets of protection and since Midaranye is the closest region to Griss figured it might be one. If someone is interested in expanding on this, feel free to message me.