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Messages - Daitō

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571
Diplomacy and Events / Re: An Overdue Trip (Ach and Daito)
« on: September 01, 2022, 05:03:29 AM »
First on the menu was an appetizer, one of two in fact. Provided was Sakizuke, a dish akin to an amuse-bouche which was served alongside a glass of sake. In particular, the dish itself was an assortment of vegetables, arranged to capture the spirit of the month and of the city. After all, Kaiseki cuisine was the culinary expression of three Daitōjin ideals. The first, Shun, was seasonality, meant to place oneself in the moment. The second, wabi-sabi, the aesthetic notion that there is beauty in nature, and that beauty is imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete. Finally, it embodied the concept of ichi-go ichi-e, which described the concept of treasuring unrepeatable nature of a moment, calling to attention that every moment is precious yet fleeting. Brought together, they created something truly unique, each course a work of art, a masterpiece built off experience in a tradition dating back centuries.

Once everyone had been served, Muneyori stood up, his glass in hand, as he offered a toast.
   "I would like to begin by welcoming our guests to the Empire. May good health and long life be yours, our dear allies from the north." He said, looking to Peter and Renee. "May the partnership between our peoples prove fruitful, and may peace yet reign in the eight directions of the world. Kanpai!" He said, raising his glass, his cheer repeated by many throughout the room.

When Muneyori had finished his toast, Eijiro finally found himself presented with the chance to speak with Peter once more, wishing to continue their conversation from before. At first, it was mere idle conversation, discussing recent events both at home and abroad, the weather, the sort of stuff that one would expect for small-talk. Whether it would turn into anything else remained to be seen, after all, a great many things had already been achieved. Perhaps his counterpart had some ideas?

572
Vignettes / Re: A Lifetime of Change (Historical Vignettes set from 1891 - 2011)
« on: August 31, 2022, 07:41:24 PM »
Farewell
Isahaya Ward, Shinkyō
UTC 1800
April 13, 1916

Haruto stepped towards the station, the silver star on twin bars of red that adorned his collar glistening in the evening sun. Having made it through the academy, he was being assigned once more to the western front, where a breakthrough had been made nearly a year back. Finally, after nearly two years, the army was in the great Yamanori Valley, a great plain nestled between the Tanzawa and Ryōhaku mountains, whereupon the city of Saito lay nestled along the coast. Fifty-seven years it had been since it was taken, and he would get to take part in its liberation, or die trying. Either way, he felt duty-bound to serve the Empire in this most noble pursuit.

He turned back as he approached the steps to the door, a shaky smile upon his face as he looked back on his family, which had gathered to see him off. Well, everyone who could, anyways. His brother was out at sea again, no doubt giving the Ardians hell after the Battle of Miyakejima last February, which saw a great many ships lost on both sides but Daitō and her allies attaining a strategic victory. He walked over to them one last time, wishing to say his final goodbyes before he was off to the front. Oh how he hated goodbyes; he was never good at them, but now, he wasn't even sure if he would return.
   "O-tōsan..." He said, turning to his father. "Thank you for everything. I wouldn't be able to have this opportunity were it not for you."
   "Take care, son." His father said, his voice soft and fragile. "Make sure you write us once in a while, I'd love to know how the Army's treating you."
   "I will see what I can do." Haruto said before turning to his mother. "O-kāsan, I promise, I will come home." He said, offering a hug for a moment as he thought of what else there was to say.
   "I'll be praying for your safe return, Haruto." Etsuko—His mother—said in a calm manner, though her eyes betrayed a sense of worry for her son, soon to go off to war once again. She wouldn't say anything else, for what else could be said?
   "Ayuka... Stay strong, for me." He finally said to his sister before turning away, making his way back towards the station, waving as he walked.

He passed through the door, looking up at the sign which read "Isahaya-eki", Isahaya station, a sight which was so very familiar to him now. He boarded his train, and soon he was off to the front, to Saito. Either glory or death awaited, and he was ready for either. As the city began to fade away, he looked down at a card he had been given before he left, the sender unknown, likely a friend of the family, which read something along the lines of
   "Though we may not see each other again alive, know that you are forever in our prayers so that peace may one day be yours."
He chuckled as he placed the card aside, content to watch the countryside go by. Many stops would be made as more and more soldiers boarded the train, but in time, fields and rivers, cities and roads, gave way to mountains and valleys, and soon, they would arrive.

573
Vignettes / Re: A Lifetime of Change (Historical Vignettes set from 1891 - 2011)
« on: August 30, 2022, 07:35:08 PM »
The Letter
Isahaya Ward, Shinkyō
UTC 0730
January 04, 1915

Cold air swept the streets of Shinkyō early in the morning of the fourth of January. Haruto found himself reading the morning paper, getting caught up with the war before he was supposed to ship out, or at least, so he thought. He glanced down at his lap, where a letter rested, already opened, but he wanted to keep his mind off of it for the time being. It was a lot to take in, after all. So instead, here he sat, reading the latest on the war. Apparently, not even a week ago, Mount Ushiro had finally been taken, and yet once again, the Empire's finest were stuck in a stalemate just a few kilometers from the Yamanori valley. At this pace, it'd take at least another two years before they'd be in Saito, if they were lucky. Thankfully, they had the kami on their side, unlike Gripus, but he wasn't so sure if that would be enough.

It felt like every day, they heard about how a ship had been lost or some far-flung town on the peninsula had been seized, and yet, there was still a certain optimism among the people that victory would be achieved. Perhaps it was the defiant Yamato-damashii—the Ōnishi Spirit—which drove them forwards, as had been drilled into his mind since he was a mere child, or perhaps it was merely a desire to exact vengeance for the disaster of 1859. Whatever the case may be, it was hard to see how it could get worse now. Now, all that was left was to see the sun rise through the clouds once more. He just hoped, no, he prayed that he would live to see it for himself.

The sound of footsteps drew closer, not on the street but from behind him, within the house. Who could it be, Haruto pondered for but a moment, as he continued to study the paper, looking for news on the Peninsular theatre, hopeful that, at least somewhere, the tides of war were favorable. Alas, that was not the case. Like in the Tanazawa mountains, a stalemate had fallen across the frontlines, with neither side able to achieve any major gains but rather trapped in a quagmire of trenches and wire. In a word, based on how it was described, it was hell. He couldn't help but feel glad that he wasn't there and that he had been sent this letter, for if he were, he was certain he would perish. His thoughts on this were soon interrupted though, for as he turned the page, the door slid open and out stepped a man in his early fifties, his arm in a sling following an accident a few months back.
   "O-tōsan.[1]" Haruto said with a nod as he glanced to look. "You heading to your appointment?"
   "Yep. Doc said this'll be my final appointment and then I can get out of this sling and back to work." Daisuke—His father—replied with a smile as he glanced down at his son and at the paper. "Y'know, I never got to ask, what's it like out there. On the frontlines, I mean."
   "Why?" Haruto asked, confused by the question, or rather, by why he was asking.
   "Well, you see, some of my friends are saying that the papers aren't telling the whole truth, so I thought I'd get it from someone who had be-"
   "With all due respect, father, I'm not particularly comfortable talking about it." Haruto said, cutting his father off as he looked down at the ground.
   "That's alright." Daisuke said, his brow pulled together. "At any rate, you give any thoughts about what you want to do when this is all over?"
   "Honestly, I haven't given it much thought. I know Jiro will be taking over the business once you retire, but as for me? I really don't know." Haruto lied, not specifically to his father but rather to himself. "I mean, I got a letter... It said I've been accepted into the academy, but... I don't know if I could make it through, if I'm actually cut out for it."
   "W-why didn't you say that sooner?" His father, exasperated by the revelation, asked.
   "I don't know if I'm going to accept it." Haruto noted as he picked it up from his lap. "It's at least another ten years in the service if I do."
   "Perhaps, but even so, the pay must be really good at that point. You'd be able to choose any life you'd like after that, especially if—no, when—you get promoted."
With a sigh, Haruto admitted "...that's a good point." as he looked back at his father. He could finally match Jiro, a lieutenant in the navy, even if it meant he would be responsible for a great many people. "Okay. Against my better judgement, I'll do it."
   "That's my boy." Daisuke said, patting his son's back before walking off. Before he left, he would wave and shout for Haruto to pick up something for dinner, given what a momentous occasion this was to be.
 1. "O-tōsan" is an honorific term for one's father.

574
International News Networks / Re: Imperial News Service (Daitō)
« on: August 29, 2022, 01:58:35 AM »
Special: Kurashiki Danjiri Festival
It's a tradition which shows no signs of slowing down. The Kurashiki Danjiri festival brings thrills to the city of Kurashiki each year with its high-energy race of shrines through its many streets and spectacular—albeit dangerous—performances atop them. Dating back more than three-hundred years, the festival began when the daimyō of Kurashiki, Iwasaki Yorifusa, prayed to the Kami for an abundant harvest at Ukyō Inari-taisha in Tenkyō. Divided into two separate festivals, the first and most famous is held on the last Saturday and Sunday of August, while the second, held in October, is less famous but includes more Danjiri shrines. The August festival is again separated into two. Again, the more famous is the Kurashiki Danjiri centering on the castle and runs from the Nankai line down to the shore of the Mutsu inland sea. The other Danjiri festival occurs in the town of Nishi and centers around Nankai Nishi Station. For more on the festival, we join Fusako Arishima, who had the opportunity to spend time in the city for the festival.

   "It is 4:50 AM and Kurashiki, Kawachi is coming to life. This ornate wooden float, or danjiri, will soon join other neighborhood teams blazing around the city streets." She said about the float itself before getting the chance to interview someone who would be onboard during the parade, who, when asked if he got scared going around corners at high speed, said that he actually found it exciting more than anything. She also got to interview the Sujikaicho team's leader, Atsuo Fujibayashi, who expects his team to run a blistering pace.
   "I think we'll be running faster than usual. Counting children and women, we'll have about 200 people pulling the danjiri." Fujibayashi-san said. "Of course, it's not really about making it first, rather, it's to show our devotion through this great struggle."

5:30 AM, tension is slowly building in the streets of Kurashiki. Men make the final preparations for their danjiri ahead of the festival. As the voices of revelers grow louder, the signal is given, and the festival is kicked off. Various courses snake through the city's streets. Men balance and dance atop the portable shrines, giving instructions to their teams in a highly ritualized fashion, often at great personal risk as seen with many accidents over the decades. Twenty-two teams run at high speed, one after another along the route. As they make their way along, the Sujikacho team prepares for its first "yarimawashi", which means cornering at high speeds in what is considered by many to be a highlight of the festival. The team speeds into and successfully navigates the corner as the crowd erupts in elation.

Behind the scenes, another tradition is underway. From early morning, women are hard at work preparing for an influx of hungry runners. Locals often eat crab during the festival, owing to it being commonly caught in the area. Of course, another staple of the event is beer. The festival keeps the women going full-steam, as preparing food takes up the entire day.
   "We watch the festival on TV, mostly to keep track of where everyone is and how much time we have left." One of the cooks said during an interview. "Right now, we've got about twenty minutes to clean this up and prepare the next meal."

Come afternoon, the crowd swells and the energy of the festival rises. More than three-hundred thousand festivalgoers flock to the event annually, while many more in the region often watch local broadcasts of it. The teams parade their floats in front of the train station, where celebration ensues. Then, when that is done, it is back to running, which continues until six in the evening. Now more than three centuries after this tradition began, it has remained a hallmark of the region, and like a danjiri at full speed, it is still going strong. For DHK, this is Tatsuo Watai, signing off.

575
Diplomacy and Events / Re: ICON Secured Communications Link
« on: August 27, 2022, 12:16:47 PM »
ICON Communique
Authorization TKK-SC17
Tokubetsu Kōtō Keisatsu, Superintendent-General Jin Hiraishi
August 26, 2022/5:53 AST
TO: INIS Director Tamaki Kado

We acknowledge the concerns that you have leveled with regards to alleged agents of the Anauša entering the Empire, however, having reviewed the data provided and cross-referenced it with our own and that of our allies, we must admit that there is presently no reason to believe that such concerns have any merit. Furthermore, in light of recent allegations that you yourself have peddled that the Tokubetsu Kōtō Keisatsu or any other agencies within the Daitōjin Intelligence Community were responsible for riots among the Toshikawan community in Port Luca, it only seems fitting that one questions the real motives behind this message, given that, from our perspective, it seems more likely that this is merely an effort to shift the blame, so to speak, away from yourself and onto another individual.

While we are open to cooperating with INIS on the investigation, for that to occur, we expect nothing less than complete transparency, with any and all findings being shared forthwith by all parties involved. Furthermore, no agent of INIS is to set foot in Imperial territory, with investigations within the Empire of Daitō being handled by our own personnel, given their extensive training with surveillance equipment presently in use throughout its territory. Any operative of INIS or of any other Rokkenjiman Intelligence service which is discovered to be operating within Daitōjin borders will be treated as having breached state security and thus will be charged with espionage under the 1914 Espionage and Sedition Act and in accordance with international law.

576
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Daitōjin Press Office
« on: August 25, 2022, 04:36:00 PM »
3時代2022年08月25日
Statement on Luca Riots

The Empire of Daitō strongly condemns the statement issued earlier today by INIS Director Tamaki Kado with regards to potential foreign involvement in the riots that occurred in the city of Luca, in which he claimed, quote,
   "The Toshikawans have had great difficulty in accepting responsibilities for their past actions though, perhaps, it could also be a vehicle of revenge on the part of the Empire of Daitō in response to their perceived grievances with the First Empire, all angles will be investigated."
We question the motives as to this statement, which is no doubt born out of the characteristic Rokkenjiman paranoia dating back to the cold war, and furthermore we question why the government of the Rokkenjiman state did not at any point inquire with His Imperial Majesty's government as to what its activities within the state may be. Such reckless statements could be passed off were Kado-san a new figure within the Rokkenjiman Intelligence Community, however, as he is the head of INIS, we must instead suspect that this is but a ploy to sully the name of His Imperial Majesty's government within the eyes of the international community or at least to distract from issues at home.

There is another matter, however, which we believe should be brought up, that being the matter of punishment for allegedly instigating the riots. As RBC has claimed, those charged in the course of the investigation will be convicted. As RBC is a state-owned, this otherwise offhanded comment must be treated with extreme scrutiny as it likely represents state policy. As a result, we remind the Rokkenjiman government that any action, whether it be against a foreign national or not, which follows this course would in effect be a violation of the Mundus Convention on Universal Rights, Article 7, subsection 2, which states:
   "No one charged with a criminal offence shall be presumed guilty until proven as such according to law."
Failure to comply with the Mundus Convention on Universal Rights will be met with consequences for the Rokkenjiman government.

Finally, the Empire of Daitō is formally updating its guidelines with regards to travel to the Rokkenjiman State. We strongly recommend that any Daitōjin nationals currently planning to travel to Rokkenjima reconsider their plans as they may be unjustly caught up in this investigation. As for our citizens currently within Rokkenjima, we request that you remain calm in this situation and avoid any action which may draw unwarranted suspicion towards you by local authorities. We will update our recommendations as this situation evolves, so we request that you remain appraised of the situation until it can be resolved.

577
Diplomacy and Events / Re: A Private Message To Crown Princess Serenity
« on: August 25, 2022, 03:54:57 PM »
As a matter of fact, Suketoshi had little to say on it, after all, the treaty as it stood worked for him. However, there was but a single issue, one which effectively left his hands tied with regards to signing. It was a shame, of course, given that he was eager to see reform, but between it likely not having enough support in the Diet and the press viewing it as little more than another CSTO, there really wasn't much he could do. Not yet, anyways.
   "While I feel that this agreement is... acceptable, I cannot guarantee that it will pass the Diet, not without a significant push to force its hand anyways." He said with some hesitation, knowing what sort of a precedent it could set within the Empire. If His Imperial Majesty, nominally apolitical, were to come out in support of the treaty, then perhaps it would pass. That being said, he wouldn't deny that it would achieve some of what the DFD once set out to do, all those years ago, even if his own position may be left diminished. "Nevertheless, I will see what I can do, see what strings I can pull to help affect a satisfactory outcome to this present situation."

578
Diplomacy and Events / Re: An Overdue Trip (Ach and Daito)
« on: August 23, 2022, 11:50:50 PM »
Eijiro smiled for a moment, though he did not answer. Not at first, anyways. It was not as though there were anything to hide; the cooks certainly weren't going to be serving fugu (though mostly due to some centuries-old ban) or worse, rather, he simply needed to think it over. After all, though he had eaten it many times since he was very young, it was difficult for him to put it into English, even with his mastery of the language.
   "Have you ever had the chance, if you don't mind me asking of course, to try Kaiseki cuisine?" He asked, glancing momentarily at the palace before turning back. "If you haven't, which, in all fairness, I suspect is the case given it isn't seen much outside of the Empire and Toshikawa, allow me to say, it is... quite the experience. A work of art as much as it is a meal." He added as he looked out on the water. Tonight would be one of celebration, for it was the eve of "greenery day", an observance of the many gifts of the natural world bestowed upon the people. Certainly, it was something to look forwards to.
A few hours later

The sun hung low on the horizon, its golden light peering through the windows, filling the state banquet hall as guests from across the Empire entered. The room itself was quite occidental in its construction, a decision made by Emperor Keiyo when he moved the court here in the early 1870s, yet it also had many elements of Ōnishi architecture throughout, which were added when the palace underwent repairs after sustaining significant damage as a result of Ardian firebombing during the war. Truthfully, Eijiro didn't particularly enjoy how it looked, especially after his time in Tenkyō back in 2012, which was in part why he was so eager to move back there. That and its position as the cultural and spiritual heart of the Empire since time immemorial, of course.

Still, though he had a slight disdain for the room's appearance, Eijiro was nonetheless glad that he could spend his last few days in the palace hosting the Achkaerinese; in a way, he felt as though he were returning the favor after Peter had so graciously done the same during his studies abroad. He glanced around the room for a moment, watching briefly as the gagaku ensemble prepared to play their music. He was joined that night by members of his family—most notably Uchitsune, the retired Emperor Daiwa—as well as a few close friends such as Count Muneyori Tomoshige, given that they were there to attend the transfer from this palace back to Tenkyō.
   "I am glad you could join us, your Highness." Eijiro said whenever Peter and Renee arrived. "If I may, allow me to introduce you to my grandfather, His Majesty, the Emperor-Emeritus, and His Excellency, Count Muneyori Tomoshige."
   "It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance, your Highness." Said the retired Emperor first, his voice weakened by age and slowly-failing health. At just over eighty years old, he was the second oldest monarch in the country's history, although his actual reign was comparatively short as it only lasted a mere eighteen years.
   "As it is mine." Muneyori spoke up, offering a slight bow in respect. Appearance-wise, it was striking how similar he looked to Eijiro, but even more so to the late Emperor Antei, which of course led to rumors but was, in all likelihood, a mere coincidence.
   "In any case, please, feel free to take a seat so that we may begin." Eijiro said with a nod.

579
International News Networks / Re: Imperial News Service (Daitō)
« on: August 23, 2022, 11:50:40 AM »
Ignition confirmed in a nuclear fusion experiment for the first time
A major breakthrough in nuclear fusion has been confirmed a year after it was achieved at a laboratory in Tsukishima circuit. Researchers at the Tadakatsu Ujihara Imperial Laboratory's (TUIL's) Imperial Ignition Facility (IIF) recorded the first case of ignition on August 23, 2021, the results of which have now been published in three peer-reviewed papers. But before we proceed, what is nuclear fusion? Nuclear fusion is the process that powers the Sun and other stars: heavy hydrogen atoms collide with enough force that they fuse together to form a helium atom, releasing large amounts of energy as a by-product. Once the hydrogen plasma "ignites", the fusion reaction becomes self-sustaining, with the fusions themselves producing enough power to maintain the temperature without external heating.

Ignition during a fusion reaction essentially means that the reaction itself produced enough energy to be self-sustaining, which would be necessary in the use of fusion to generate electricity. If we could harness this reaction to generate electricity, it would be one of the most efficient and least polluting sources of energy possible. No fossil fuels would be required as the only fuel would be hydrogen, and the only by-product would be helium, which we use in industry and are presently running out of. The problem with fusion energy at the moment is that we do not have the technical capabilities to harness this power. Scientists from across the world are currently working to solve these issues. In this latest milestone at TUIL recorded an energy yield of around 1.3 megajoules in just a few nanoseconds.
"The record shot was a major scientific advance in fusion research, which establishes that fusion ignition in the lab is possible at IIF," said Joji Watabe, chief scientist for TUIL's inertial confinement fusion program. "Achieving the conditions needed for ignition has been a long-standing goal for all inertial confinement fusion research and opens access to a new experimental regime where alpha-particle self-heating outstrips all the cooling mechanisms in the fusion plasma."

In the experiments performed to reach this ignition result, researchers heat and compress a central "hot spot" of deuterium-tritium (hydrogen atoms with one and two neutrons, respectively) fuel using a surrounding dense piston also made from deuterium-tritium, creating a super hot, super pressurized hydrogen plasma.
"Ignition occurs when the heating from absorption of α particles created in the fusion process overcomes the loss mechanisms in the system for a duration of time," said the authors in a paper publishing the results in the journal Butteki Fukushū E.

This landmark result comes after years of research and thousands of man hours dedicated to improving and perfecting the process: over 1,000 authors are included in the Butteki Fukushū Moji paper. Despite repeated attempts having not been able to achieve the same energy yield as the August 2021 experiment, all of them reached higher energies than previous experiments. Data from these follow-ups will aid the researchers to further streamline the fusion process and further explore nuclear fusion as a real option for electricity generation in the future.
"It is extremely exciting to have an 'existence proof' of ignition in the lab," Watabe said. "We're operating in a regime that no researchers have accessed since the end of nuclear testing, and it's an incredible opportunity to expand our knowledge as we continue to make progress."
OOC Note: Actual papers regarding this achievement are provided below:
Lawson Criterion for Ignition Exceeded in an Inertial Fusion Experiment
Experimental achievement and signatures of ignition at the National Ignition Facility
Design of an inertial fusion experiment exceeding the Lawson criterion for ignition

580
Vignettes / Re: A Lifetime of Change (Historical Vignettes set from 1891 - 2011)
« on: August 23, 2022, 12:19:54 AM »
Home again
Isahaya Ward, Shinkyō
UTC 1400
December 29, 1914

Haruto stepped off the train and onto the platform, back where he had started after just over four months. His uniform was left ragged, damaged by the elements up in the Tanzawa Mountains and and by enemy fire. Just four months, and already he was sent home. What 'luck' he had, being sent home, likely to be transferred out to Toshikawa alongside the rest of his unit. Adjusting his kit-bag so that it rested well on his back, he then straightened his cap as he walked towards the exit. Just four months alone had been enough to change the city drastically; sure, there were still many people, but you couldn't take a few steps without running into a newspaper reporting on the latest events of the war.
   "Haruto! Over here!" A voice called out. Haruto looked around, trying to find who was calling him. Then, he saw him. His elder brother, Jiro, was leaning against a column, kitted out in his naval uniform as he smoked a cigarette.
   "Jiro, what are you doing here?" Haruto asked in response, a nearly child-like joy overtaking him as he walked over to join him. "It's been, what, six months since we last saw each other?"
   "Seven months as of last Tuesday, as a matter of fact." Jiro corrected him with a nod, offering a cigarette, which Haruto accepted. "As for your question, father asked that I get you."
   "Ah, fair enough. How's he doing, by the way?"
   "Not too badly, all things considered. Doctor says his arm's mending rather well, after the accident I mean."
   "Right, well, I'm sure he'll be happy to get back out on the water soon." Haruto said, lighting his cig as he glanced around the area; more and more troops boarding trains and less civilians, and those civilians who were present were boarding last. "That reminds me, how's life on the Tochigi? I'm sure you're getting to spend your days in the tropics, living a life of leisure." He asked in a joking manner.
   "Yeah... It's quite wonderful. Up in the Kyne, the 'rain' is so nice. In fact, some say it's to die for." Jiro responded in turn. "Seriously though, it could be better, but it could be a lot worse. It's the kami's providence that we can get out of port without getting attacked." He pointed out as he checked his watch; they really needed to get going soon. "In any case, lets get you home, huh?"
   "Yes, lets." Haruto nodded as the two left the station before catching a trolley towards home.

As the trolley pulled into Kashiwa-Dōri, the pair stepped off and continued walking. Their stop wasn't far from home, just a block away. His mind went over what he might say as they approached the door. Truthfully, he didn't know who would be there when he got home; it was just about three in the afternoon, after all, so not everyone was likely to be home by now. He only wished he could've gotten home sooner. Still, he could only imagine the look on his mother's face when she saw him, especially with the fresh new scar near his eye.

581
Vignettes / Re: A Lifetime of Change (Historical Vignettes set from 1891 - 2011)
« on: August 21, 2022, 02:01:14 PM »
The Battle of Kon'noyama
Warning: This post contains: violence. If this bothers you, turn away now.
Tanzawa Mountains, Southwest Daitō
UTC 0800
December 11, 1914

The whistles blared as Haruto and his compatriots, his countrymen, clambered up the mountainside, the way made for them by the boys in His Majesty's Tozan-ka[1], first regiment, if he remembered correctly. Whether or not they took the mountain, this was going to be the last major operation until spring, as the winter weather simply wouldn't allow them to advance. Instead, it would be a battle with the elements, fending off frostbite and hypothermia rather than bullet and shell. He glanced down over the cliff, watching as something odd flew past. It appeared like a bird, its wings grand, yet it was no bird. Its wings did not flap, it made a most dreadful buzzing noise, and painted upon its wings was the Hinomaru, the circle of the sun. Finally, he realized what it was. At long last, he was getting to see an airplane in person.

In spite of this miraculous sight, Haruto, now a corporal owing to a field promotion, pushed forwards, rifle in hand, bayonet affixed. A loud boom sounded throughout the area as a shell landed nearby, shaking the earth as though it were a table in an earthquake. Debris fell all around, and yet, they still marched on into what would undoubtedly be their deaths. Bodies lay along the trail, their eyes glazed like glass, blood staining the snow and ice. The fighting was already so horrible, and they were going straight into it. Seeing this sight—realizing this was quite possibly the end—he would briefly recite the nenbutsu as he stepped forwards, prepared for what was to come.

A few minutes passed before they reached the enemy position, quickly coming under a hail of fire from one of many bunkers carved into the heights. Someone tossed a grenade, little more than some picric acid and iron attached to a stick, towards the Ardian bunker, yet for a moment it seemed like it may not make it through. These weapons had numerous issues, after all, but it was what they had. Thankfully, this time it succeeded, and a loud thud could be heard as the guns went silent. In the time between contact and the bunker being neutralized, a great many men including Sub-Lieutenant Tachikawa had fallen to machinegun fire. This loss troubled many of the men, but not Haruto. Rather, he took his CO's sword, not really intending to keep it but rather so that it wouldn't fall into the hands of the enemy. Such weapons were, after all, said to be quite valuable among the Ardian ranks. That and he hoped that it would be returned to Tachikawa's family, owing to the blade being something of an heirloom, or so he'd been told.
   "Forwards!" He cried, waving his hand, motioning for them to advance. The whistle of mortar shells foretold their impact, falling short of their intended target and taking two of Haruto's men. They were now close enough to the enemy lines that they could hear them speak in their alien tongue, indecipherable to all but a trained listener. With a great shout, he and his men fell upon the Ardians, bayonets glinting in the morning sun. A great many men were slain that day, yet the day would not be theirs.

Haruto nearly froze up when he saw the Ardian rifle leveled towards him. His eyes widened as he glimpsed the flash, he knew it was for him. He ducked behind cover, his head barely poking out over the rock, but it would not be enough. Though he would not be directly hit, the bullet fragmented upon contact with the ground, a shard striking him near his left eye and leaving him blinded by blood in said eye. The pain was terrible, he could not deny it, but if he didn't act now, there was no way that anyone would be getting home today. Thus, biting back the pain, he raised his rifle and returned fire, calling for a retreat as he did so. He heard another shell fall, striking not far from him and knocking him off his feet. He saw, by his side, what looked like a hand, though mangled beyond any recognition. It wasn't his, thankfully, but that was enough of a "kick in the pants", as it were, to tell him that they needed to get out of there, and fast. The volume of artillery fire had begun to increase, and many shells had begun to hit the snow above. If Daitō couldn't have the mountain, as was clear to Corporal Kimura at this point, then it seemed likely that they would deny it to the Ardians as well. And so, they ran. Daitō's finest fled, doing what the locals had thought inconceivable. Kon'noyama would not claim them, not today.

Thus, having gotten clear of the peak to some degree, Haruto saw a great white cloud of snow envelop the site they had fought so desperately to claim. He was, from that point onwards, sent home as he had leave for a time coming up.
 1. "Tozan-ka", an Onishi term, translates as "Mountaineers"

582
International Organisations / Re: Cultural Exchange Treaty Organisation
« on: August 18, 2022, 12:43:38 AM »
Daito supports the application of Abertone to join the Cultural Exchange Treaty Organization

583
Vignettes / Re: A Lifetime of Change (Historical Vignettes set from 1891 - 2011)
« on: August 15, 2022, 08:03:47 AM »
Watching the Mountain of Souls
Tanzawa Mountains, Southwest Daitō
UTC 1700
November 27, 1914

Ice cold wind battered Haruto's position, cut into rock and ice upon the summit of Mount Suiken, one hundred or so kilometers from the old capital in Tenkyō. As the snow had ceased momentarily, he had a momentary reprieve, able to see their next objective, Mount Ushiro, just across the ways. In fighting like this, elevation was everything, and Ushiro had it, standing nearly seventy meters higher than their current position, which was, if Haruto had to guess, around four and a half kilometers from sea level. He wasn't entirely sure why it was so important of course; he had heard talk that it could be used as a position for their artillery, able to rain down fire into the nearby Yamanori valley, but that was just one guess of many. In all likelihood, it was just a matter of pushing the front forwards more than anything, something that would become far easier once they were past the alps.

He remained silent, his eyes trained on the mountain. Other than the wind, it was quiet. Not a surprise, a blizzard had ripped through the area mere hours before after all. Soon, the fighting would likely resume. As he kept watch, another soldier walked up and tried to strike a conversation.
   "Y'know, weren't we supposed to be in Saito by now?" The private asked, to which Haruto sighed, his breath turning to mist in the cold air.
   "...Yes, Yasuki. Yes we were." Haruto replied, eyes remaining on the mountain.
   "I bet that mountain's why we haven't moved on." The private, Yasuki Okada, said, which everyone knew of course. "You know what the locals say about it, Haruto?"
   "What?" Haruto asked, briefly humoring him.
   "Well, they say that anyone who tries to climb it never comes back." Yasuki noted as he too looked over to the mountain. "They call it Kon'noyama[1]."
   "How nice, the folks around here have their own name for it. How quaint."
Yasuki nodded in agreement before finally reporting "In any case, I suppose I'm here to relieve you."
   "I stand relieved." Haruto said before heading back inside the dugout. In just a few weeks, they would be seizing the mountain. After that, it was anyone's guess where they would be going.
 1. "Kon'noyama" translates as "Mountain of Souls"

584
Vignettes / Re: A Lifetime of Change (Historical Vignettes set from 1891 - 2011)
« on: August 14, 2022, 01:00:50 PM »
First Contact
Warning: This post contains: violence. If this bothers you, turn away now.
Tanzawa Mountains, Southwest Daitō
UTC 1133
September 19, 1914

The sun bore down on the men of the second infantry, who found themselves marching through the northern tip of the Tanzawa mountains, not far from the Ardian border. At nearly a month into his service, Haruto found himself further from the sea than he had ever been before; his father was a fisherman, as had his father before him, and his father before him, and so on and so forth for generations. Suffice to say, for a boy who had grown up on the water, this was quite different from anything he had experienced before. He had heard tales of the Ardians, of their brutality during the last war back in the 1850s, and yet, they said that all they would need was a kick in the pants and they would be running back to Cescedia before the new year. Their commanding officer, a Rikugun-Shōi[1] by the name of Eisaku Tachikawa, had taken up the lead thus far.

For his part, Haruto found himself conversing with another recruit, a man by the name of Hajime. From what he knew, Hajime, whose family was of some importance back home, hailed from the east of the country, from around Awara. Probably some sort of retainers to the Taira, if he were to guess, but after the restoration they had lost what status they had. Still, it was clear to him that, while Hajime was hoping to earn glory on the battlefield so as to restore his family's status to some degree, he was in it more for the Empire itself.
   "...I dunno, Haruto, I mean I'd love nothing more than to give Gripus[2] a thrashing, I'd rather do it when we aren't on a tight schedule." Hajime said in a semi-serious manner, his eyes scanning the ridges of the valley for movement.
   "Sure, not like we have much of a choice though. Would be nice if Tachikawa-Shōi would give us a break, but you know how he is." Replied Haruto, shifting his rifle on his shoulder as the bolt had begun to dig into his skin a tad.
   "Mhm... Sure beats being out here exposed to the elements, I guess." Hajime stated in agreement before adding "Come to think of it, it is rather odd that we haven't seen them yet."
   "Maybe they fled when they received word we were coming?" Haruto noted with a chuckle before their commander raised his hand, motioning for them to stop in their tracks. The platoon went silent at that moment as Tachikawa slowly crept forwards. Was he just being paranoid, or perhaps he had actually seen something?

*CRACK*

A bullet whizzed by, striking one of Haruto's brothers-in-arms in, as it happened, the arm.
   "AMBUSH!" Eisaku shouted as Haruto raised his rifle, a Type 34 and gunfire erupted along the mountainside. Someone shouted that they should retreat, another that they had the Ardians on the run. Simply put, it was chaos. Though in later days he wouldn't admit it, Haruto's nerves had failed him completely. He had been scared pale and senseless, almost frozen in place until Hajime pulled him to the ground, only to be shot dead mere moments later. After coming to his senses, all he heard was gunfire and the screams of the dying on the mountainside. Not just Daitōjin, but Ardian too. He leveled his gun, spotting an Ardian gunner just ahead, up on the ridge.

*BANG*

He fired his rifle, aiming for the man's chest. He fell, tumbling down the mountainside before finally coming to a stop, his skin bruised, his body mangled by the fall. Not long after, the tide had begun to shift. He saw two men fleeing from them. Two shots. One in the gut, the other in the leg. The two Ardians met with a similar fate, their screams echoing throughout the valley as they plummeted to their deaths. It was truly dreadful, he would admit that much later on, but he had no choice. It was either he kill, or he would be killed. With the skirmish at a close, they took stock of their losses. Eight dead, five wounded, and three missing out of fifty men. Having survived his first contact with the foe, Haruto, alongside the men of the second infantry platoon, continued on their way, unable to even bury their dead.

If this were to be his first taste of combat, Haruto felt nothing but dread for what was to come.
 1. Rikugun-Shōi: "Rikugun-Shōi", a title within the Imperial Daitōjin Army, translates roughly as Sub-Lieutenant, alternatively as Second Lieutenant. An officer of this rank is referred to as -Name--Shōi
 2. "Gripus" was a nickname for the Ardians in those days among the Daitōjin, much as "Ivan" is for the Russians in reality.

585
Non Fiction / Re: The DFD Songbook, 8th Edition
« on: August 14, 2022, 04:39:59 AM »
"Battōtai"
Lyrics
Onishi
Lyrics
Onishi (Ardianji)
Lyrics
English
一、
我は官軍我敵は
天地容れざる朝敵ぞ
敵の大將たる者は
古今無雙の英雄で

二、
之に從ふ兵は
共に慓悍决死の士
鬼神に恥ぬ勇あるも
天の許さぬ叛逆を

三、
起しゝ者は昔より
榮えし例あらざるぞ
敵の亡ぶる夫迄は
進めや進め諸共に

四、
玉ちる劔拔き連れて
死する覺悟で進むべし
皇國の風と武士の
其身を護る靈の

五、
維新このかた廢れたる
大和刀の今更に
又世に出づる身の譽
敵も身方も諸共に

六、
刃の下に死ぬべきぞ
大和魂ある者の
死ぬべき時は今なるぞ
人に後れて恥かくな

七、
敵の亡ぶる夫迄は
進めや進め諸共に
玉ちる劔拔き連れて
死する覺悟で進むべし
I.
Ware wa kangun waga teki wa
Tenchi irezaru chōteki zo
Teki no taishō taru mono wa
Kokon musō no eiyū de

II.
Kore ni shitagō tsuwamono wa
Tomo ni hyōkan kesshi no shi
Kijin ni hajinu yūaru mo
Ten no yurusanu hangyaku wo

III.
Okoseshi mono wa mukashi yori
Sakaeshi tameshi arazaru zo
Teki no horoburu sore made wa
Susume ya susume moro tomo ni

IV.
Tamachiru tsurugi nuki tsurete
Shisuru kakugo de susumu beshi
Mikuni no fūto mono no fu wa
Sonomi wo mamoru tamashii no

V.
Ishiin kono kata sutaretaru
Yamato-tō no ima sara ni
Mata yo ni izuru mi no homare
Teki mo mikata mo moro tomo ni

VI.
Yaiba no mono ni shisu beki ni
Yamato-damashii aru mono no
Shinubeki toki wa ima naruzo
Hito ni okurete haji kakuna

VII.
Teki no horoburu sore made wa
Susume ya susume moro tomo ni
Tamachiru tsurugi nuki tsurete
Shisuru kakugo de susumu beshi
1.
We are the Imperial Army,
and our enemies are enemies of the Emperor.
The enemy general
is a hero equal to none in glory and victory.

2.
And the men who follow him are also fearless,
and warriors who do not fear death.
Even though they are brave enough to frighten the devil,
heaven will not pardon their struggle.

3.
Those who have crossed the Emperor's will
have never succeeded before!
Until our enemy is destroyed,
forwards, forwards, one and all!

4.
Unsheathing the sword like a shattered gem,
we must go forwards, prepared for death!
As has been custom in this imperial land,
Samurai have protected like their own souls.

5.
Being made obsolete during the restoration,
the sword of Yamato laid dormant.
But now it has been brought back,
so let both friend and foe,

6.
Die under the blade,
and for those with Yamato Spirit:
The time to die is now,
do not bring shame through delay.

7.
Until our enemy is destroyed,
forwards, forwards, one and all!
Unsheathing the sword like a shattered gem,
we must go forwards, prepared for death!
"Battōtai" (抜刀隊, Drawn-Sword Regiment) is a Daitōjin gunka (lit. "Military song") composed by Eikichi Asagami with lyrics by Yasuji Sonohara in 1885. The song references the Battōtai who fought in the battle of Kokura in during the 1877 Tottori rebellion. Owing to supply problems and heavy rains, the Tottori rebels were forced to engage with the Imperial Daitōjin Army in hand-to-hand combat. They inflicted heavy casualties against Imperial forces, who were mostly conscripts with no experience in wielding swords. Thusly, Lieutenant-General Akino Seijin selected and deployed men from the surrounding area who were proficient with swords. He named this unit Battōtai or "Drawn-Sword regiment."

The song eventually became popular enough in Daitō that it was adopted by the Imperial Daitōjin Army as a march, the "Army Separation March", in 1944.

586
Diplomacy and Events / Re: An Overdue Trip (Ach and Daito)
« on: August 13, 2022, 12:15:42 PM »
Eijiro listened patiently as Peter spoke, after all, he was the host and it would be inappropriate for him to interrupt. Besides, this was important stuff he was bringing up, potentially strengthening military ties with the Achkaerinese after all this time, something which, in his opinion, should've done in '45. Now that they were both in the CSTO, perhaps that may have seemed redundant to some, but he knew better than most that having a backup was always wise, after all, organizations come and go, swept away like sandcastles before the tides. What Daitō needed, and what he suspected was the case for Achkaerin, was an ally that they could stick with through thick and thin, much as Tytor once had during the Cold War.
   "While I am positive that officials within our militaries will wish to hash out the details, I find that such a proposal is, by all means, acceptable. Certainly, an intelligence sharing agreement would be wise in this day and age." Eijiro said as they walked, first in reference to the proposals for their militaries. "Likewise, I can see the utility in shared exercises, better that than not knowing how to work together I figure." He noted, not giving much thought to the proposed officer exchange that had been mentioned as it was something that he supported out of hand.

Next on the plate was science... Spaceflight, more specifically. While the CSSEA was good to an extent, Daitō, more specifically the DNSA, had long held a policy of cooperation with the outside world, both on the border and as far as the setting sun. What he had said about the so-called "space race" was something he agreed on, at least privately, but even so, thanks to how the media was covering it, this was a race to Nergal in the public consciousness. It was a matter of national pride, really.
   "Much as I wish it... Getting to Nergal, I mean, weren't a race, I fear that is out of our hands now. That sorta thing is decided by public opinion, and if they want a race, that's all they will see." Eijiro said with a sigh. "Nonetheless, I too believe, though naturally this isn't my purview since I don't actually run DNSA, that further cooperation is not just useful but perhaps even necessary. I will be sure to communicate that to Director Asagiri the next time I speak to him."

Finally, there was the matter of the "Legacy Sport Foundation". Truly, such an important thing to worry about, between national defense and multi-billion mon projects that would inspire generations to come. Much as Eijiro noticed how it seemed ill-fitting for this present moment—He would think it better suited to discuss over dinner—he had to admit, being a military man himself and knowing many who had been injured in the line of duty, it was a program he was keenly aware and had been watching for some time with great interest. He had to think it over, of course, there were a number of things to consider in it. The cost alone wou-
   "I'm in. You have our support." He said with a smile, not really giving it much thought, much to his soon-to-be chagrin. It was such an obvious thing to say, besides, it would be a bad look if he said no. Rather, by supporting it, he could possibly use it; if he didn't, the DFD's propagandists would, that was certain. He may as well get ahead of them. "In any case though, I suspect the rest of this should be discussed over dinner, if you would be willing, of course."

587
International News Networks / Re: Imperial News Service (Daitō)
« on: August 10, 2022, 12:18:52 PM »
Imperial family makes announcement
Hisato Watase, Grand Steward of the Imperial Household Agency, held a press conference earlier today with regards to the Imperial family, for whom he has been charged with aiding since June 13, 2014. The steward first went through the standard array of topics, mostly relating to travel plans for the various members of the family, however, this was, by comparison to other news he had to share, unimportant. He read a statement to the press, saying "Their Majesties, the Emperor and Empress, have requested that I relay the following information to you. With great joy and hope, I announce that Her Majesty, Empress Mayumi, is pregnant with His Majesty's child. The couple has been aware of the pregnancy since last month, and the honourable Court Physician, Dr. Haruto Uchiyama, has stated that the child will be born sometime in December. The Imperial family as well as the Tachibana family are overjoyed at this announcement and are eager to welcome the new Prince or Princess. On behalf of the Imperial government, I wish to offer my sincerest hope that the mother and child enjoy good health."

Shortly following the statement being issued, crowds of citizens flocked to the gates of the Imperial Palace in Tenkyō to offer their best wishes to the couple and making offerings at shrines in the area around the palace. A similar display occurred at the palace in Shinkyō as well. Shrines and temples across the country have been reported to include prayers for the potential future heir to the throne in their repertoire, mostly those shrines backed by the Imperial family.
DNSA announces landing site on Nergal

Candor Chasma as pictured by Sky Sailor, 20 July, 2022
The DNSA has announced that, having reviewed data collected by both orbiters around Nergal as well as its recent Sky-Sailor mission, it has determined the optimal landing site for the 2024 mission to Nergal by the Sojourner spacecraft. This comes after photoreconnaissance performed by the vehicles indicated a site roughly in the center of Candor Chasma in the Valles Marineris canyon system to be optimal for a crewed landing. The DNSA also noted the potential presence of water ice just below the surface as a reason for their interest in the site, which, if present, could potentially support longer term missions to the red planet, not to mention that the soil could harbor evidence of past life on the planet. The agency also noted Melas and Coprates Chasma as potential secondary landing sites, given their unique geography and in the case of Coprates, evidence of seasonal flows along its slopes.
WEATHER --- Shinkyō Metro.: - 31.9°C --- Tenkyō Metro.: - 29.3°C --- Otsu Metro.:  - 29.3°C --- Yuzawa Metro.: - 28.9°C --- Shibetsu Metro.: - 29.1°C --- Urasoe Metro.: - 29.9°C --- Awara Metro.: - 30.3°C --- Goris Metro.: - 33.8°C ---

588
Diplomacy and Events / Extending the Olive Branch (Daitō and Heyra)
« on: August 08, 2022, 08:38:51 PM »
To Chairwoman Francine M. A. Therz of the Heyran Republic,
   I am writing to you on behalf of the Empire of Daitō with the hope of extending something of an olive branch, given our withdrawal from the CSTO and a renewed desire to reach out to nations and peoples across Mundus. As it happens, the Heyran Republic, owing to its position which effectively grants it control over the Matilda Channels, is viewed by many as a potential partner in some fields going into the future. Of course, there have been naysayers over the years, questions over Heyra's relationship with the Tamoran state and in particular with regards to Elysium, but it is my opinion and that of the government here in Daitō that it should not prevent ties from being formed. That, of course, brings me back to my original reasoning behind writing this, that being that I wish to propose talks, whether it be within Daitō or Heyra, or perhaps even a neutral third party, is of no consequence to me or my government.

   I eagerly await a response, and I hope that, should you agree, talks go well.
Signed,
Daitō Tennō

589
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Phoenix & the Dragon
« on: August 08, 2022, 06:53:00 AM »
   "While I cannot truly say whether we share such outlooks, I will admit there is much in the way of goodwill towards your people on the part of the Empire." Suketoshi said with a nod, continuing with "Certainly, there are things we agree on, just as I am sure there are those which we do not. Nevertheless, much like the shores of the Setagawa are unto nature, this 'ground' we tread is indeed suited to a long, healthy relationship." as he glanced briefly to Tadakatsu Haruno, who, owing to his fascination with the country, found himself marveling the room they found themselves in. "Ahem, Haruno-san?" He said in an attempt to grab his attention; this was no time to be admiring artwork, as far as Suketoshi was concern.
   "My apologies, your excellencies. Truly some fascinating architecture here." Tadakatsu said, turning back to look at the two. "I am of a similar opinion to the Prime Minister, there is much that we can cooperate on, even in light of, as you put it, Jiāyuán's present isolation. At a bare minimum, it is my belief and the belief of the government of Daitō that we can come to an agreement on matters of trade, beyond what may already exist due to private actors, companies and the like." He stated. "But what I believe is, at this point, secondary to what you wish to achieve here. So please, if it is your wish, explain to us what you may wish to see done."

590
Press Offices / Re: Press Office of Social Media
« on: August 06, 2022, 08:21:54 AM »

591
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Diplomacy, TV!
« on: August 05, 2022, 07:04:18 AM »
To the honourable Guo Tianming, good health and long life be yours,
   I would like to begin by saying that I offer the best wishes of the Empire of Daitō to the people of Mínguó on their noble decision to restore contact with the outside world. I must admit that, even as I stand as Emperor of Daitō, a position which may seem antithetical to the ideals which you have pursued, I find myself impressed by the system you have established and the progress which you have achieved. Naturally, it is my sincerest hope that strong diplomatic ties may be forged, as steady as a mountain in a storm and as adaptable as a meandering river. As such, I take great joy in the offer which, on the behalf of the Feng people, you have graciously made and in turn, I shall accept. It is my belief, as it is the belief of the Empire of Daitō and its people, that an East Ardia which works together is one which shall forever be stronger than the sum of its parts.

I am certain that, together with the people of Mínguó, we shall strive to achieve an outcome most beneficial to everyone involved.
Signed,
Daitō Tennō

592
Diplomacy and Events / Re: An Overdue Trip (Ach and Daito)
« on: August 05, 2022, 06:29:50 AM »
   "Oh, certainly such a tariff removal can be arranged, assuming the Diet agrees, which I suspect would be the case as it would assist the Empire as it crawls out of its recession." Eijiro said with a nod as he pondered the second part. Lifting tariffs was one thing, but easing visa requirements was another. While he may have been formally apolitical, in all but name he was a member of the DFD, and as a result he was aware that there was a faction within the party that wouldn't support the measure, however small it may be. He was certain they would be able to put up with it, after all, it was that same wing which opposed signing a trade deal with Rokkenjima over Cold War-era tensions, and yet they hadn't complained since. Still, it was a larger step than the previous, even if one he was prepared to take. "Very well, I find such an agreement to be of merit, even worth making. As for this additional cooperation you are proposing, I am certainly, as they say, all ears." He smiled, waiting to hear what Peter had in mind as they continued to walk under tree and over moat.

593
International News Networks / Re: Imperial News Service (Daitō)
« on: August 05, 2022, 06:12:13 AM »
2022 Kita Exercises to occur in spite of CSTO withdrawal

Marines of the Imperial Daitōjin Marine Corps disembark during the 2020 Kita Exercises
Marshal Okimoto Esashi confirmed in a press conference earlier today that the planned 2022 Kita Exercises in and around Tsukishima will continue as planned in spite of the Empire's withdrawal from the Cross-Straits Treaty Organization. This comes as many question whether the exercise can continue, given the recent withdrawal from the alliance and planning for the exercises to include its members. However, Esashi-taishō clarified that their participation was always optional, however he was quick to say that the Empire of Achkaerin had agreed to participate in this year's exercise. Whether this will be the case in the years to come remains to be seen, but he appeared hopeful.

It is recommended that international traffic refrains from travelling into the waters off of the southwestern coast of Tsukishima from the 20th to the 27th of August, owing to it being designated a live fire exercise area. Likewise, civilian air traffic will be redirected to avoid these zones until the exercise comes to an end.
Foreign representatives visit Kantei
Diplomats belonging to the Allied States of Ardia, Andinist Republic of Nueva Ardia, and the Shogunate of Toshikawa arrived in the city of Shinkyō yesterday, where they were welcomed by Prime Minister Heishi and his staff. The diplomats had travelled to Daitō in order to participate in the first in a series of talks to work out a potential free trade agreement, with the possibility of further provisions being included alongside this deal. The DFD has, since 2000, sought to build ties with the various states that line the Sea of Azukishima, with these plans being delivered a vicious blow when Toshikawa invaded Nueva Ardia. As part of efforts to aid in reconciliation on the Ardian Peninsula, Deputy Prime Minister Sadazane Konishi first proposed an East Ardian Free Trade Agreement back in 2019 while he was still serving as a representative in the Imperial Diet. His cause has been taken up by the Prime Minister, who it is believed wishes to see greater unity in East Ardia and hopes that the agreement may, in cooperation with its other prospective founders, eventually encompass a vast swathe of the East Ardian region.

594
International News Networks / Re: Imperial News Service (Daitō)
« on: August 04, 2022, 08:48:40 AM »
Recon Satellite offline, says IDSF

KA-11 4-3 as pictured by UHS-206, June 18, 2017

In a statement to the press, Marshal Saburō Yokomichi, chief of the Imperial Daitōjin Space Force, reported that a KA-11 KESSHŌ reconnaissance satellite went offline roughly 98 minutes after the destruction of a Rokkenjiman military satellite by a Nagareboshi Anti-Satellite Missile launched from the IRN Pride of Lydcaer on the behalf of the Rokkenjiman government. The satellite in question, KA-11 4-3, was launched in 2013 aboard a Sekidō-C rocket from Shiroi Shakyū Air Force Base (now Shiroi Shakyū Space Force Base) and has, until today, remained in service, providing valuable information on various sites. Costing roughly ¥111.68 billion mon ($1.396 billion), the satellites are a valuable asset to the Imperial Daitōjin Armed Forces, albeit an expensive one. Marshal Yokomichi had the following to say on the matter,
Quote from: Saburō Yokomichi
While we have yet to determine the cause of the satellite going offline, observers on the ground did note, as much as I hate to say it, that it appeared that the satellite had been impacted. What we have been able to determine, as of this moment, is that the satellite has been rendered inoperable, perhaps permanently, however, we are continuing efforts to at a bare minimum assess the extent of the damage done to it and if possible bring it back online."

595
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Daitōjin Press Office
« on: August 04, 2022, 06:41:47 AM »
3時代2682年08月04日
Statement on Impending Rokkenjiman Anti-Satellite Weapon Test

The Government of the Empire of Daitō condemns the reckless decision by the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces to conduct an anti-satellite weapons test in the coming days against an object which it claims contains "hazardous materials", likely in reference to the hydrazine propellent used aboard many satellites as fuel for their attitude control thrusters. The claims that such hazardous materials would pose a threat to human life are greatly exaggerated; the potential risks caused by its reentry are at worst minimal, even if its propellant tanks fail to burst during reentry, given that such fuel will in almost all cases burn up when exposed to the heat generated on reentry. On the other hand, claims that the resulting debris would pose no threat to stations operated by foreign nations is also exaggerated, as it is nearly impossible to track the smallest pieces of debris created in such a test, especially as the months go on. Furthermore, even without being a direct threat to manned spacecraft presently in orbit, the debris nonetheless remains a threat to various important satellites, both civil and military in nature, especially given that many satellites are coplanar with the satellite set to be destroyed by the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces.

The Government of the Empire of Daitō strongly urges that the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces retract its decision to shoot down the satellite and consider a solution which does not endanger the lives of those spacefarers currently or soon to be in orbit and the assets of the global spacefaring community.

596
International Organisations / Re: Treaty for the Protection of Hygelac and Hrothgar
« on: July 28, 2022, 02:19:13 PM »
Full Name of Country/Region: The Empire of Daitō
Representative Signing: His Excellency, Prime Minister Suketoshi Heishi
Continent: Ardia
First Language: Daitōjin Onishi (irl Japanese)
Second Language:
Additional Languages:

597
Factbooks and Maps / Major Clans of the Daitōjin Aristocracy
« on: July 27, 2022, 11:42:34 AM »
Clans of the Daitōjin Aristocracy
This thread is intended to provide information on the major families of the Daitōjin Aristocracy. These families, often referred to as clans both in foreign and local media, make up the Kazoku and the Imperial Family and are typically, though it is not necessarily the case 100% of the time, among the wealthiest families in Daitō, with many having founded corporations such as Aizawa-Shinoda and Zayasu. Ōhara Hidemasa, who was one of the principle authors of the Keiyo constitution, intended for the kazoku to serve as a political and social bulwark for the Emperor and the Daitōjin Imperial Institution, and although the system persists to this day, starting in the early 1980s, the old titles began to reemerge.
Index
   • The Imperial House
Code: (Template) [Select]
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[td][hr][center][size=14pt][font=times new roman]Information[/font][/size][/center]

[hr][center][size=14pt][font=times new roman]Notable Members[/font][/size][/center]

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[i]Name[/i][hr]
[b][font=times new roman]Founder[/font][/b][/center]
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[center][b][font=times new roman]Notable Cadet Branches[/font][/b][/center]
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598
International News Networks / Re: Imperial News Service (Daitō)
« on: July 27, 2022, 09:19:21 AM »
Final Flight of the UHS Block I Spacecraft
The following is a transcript of the final launch of Tenryū on the UHS 226 mission to resupply Zenshoen. The crew, making use of a pair of Extended Duration Orbiter pallets (EDO) will remain there for three weeks, during which time the station will also be visited by a UHS Block II spacecraft which is set to carry the second half of the Zenshoen 22B crew to the station.
Spoiler: show

   -00:09:43:   [Flight Director]: Alright, UHS-226 Flight Controllers, one after another, give me a GO/NO-GO for launch. ACO?
   -00:09:37:   [ACO]: Go.
   -00:09:36:   [Flight Director]: Booster?
   -00:09:35:   [BOOSTER]: We're go.
   -00:09:34:   [Flight Director]: DPS?
   -00:09:33:   [DPS]: Go, flight.
   -00:09:32:   [Flight Director]: EECOM?
   -00:09:31:   [EECOM]: Go.
   -00:09:30:   [Flight Director]: EGIL?
   -00:09:29:   [EGIL]: Go.
   -00:09:28:   [Flight Director]: EVA?
   -00:09:27:   [EVA]: We're go on this end.
   -00:09:26:   [Flight Director]: FAO?
   -00:09:25:   [FAO]: Go.
   -00:09:24:   [Flight Director]: FIDO?
   -00:09:23:   [FIDO]: Go.
   -00:09:22:   [Flight Director]: GC?
   -00:09:21:   [GC]: Go.
   -00:09:29:   [Flight Director]: GNC?
   -00:09:19:   [GNC]: We're go.
   -00:09:18:   [Flight Director]: INCO?
   -00:09:17:   [INCO]: Go, flight.
   -00:09:16:   [Flight Director]: MMACS?
   -00:09:15:   [MMACS]: Go.
   -00:09:14:   [Flight Director]: PDRS?
   -00:09:13:   [PDRS]: Go!
   -00:09:12:   [Flight Director]: PROP?
   -00:09:11:   [PROP]: We are go, flight.
   -00:09:10:   [Flight Director]: Rendezvous?
   -00:09:09:   [RNDZ]: Go.
   -00:09:08:   [Flight Director]: TRAJ?
   -00:09:07:   [TRAJ]: Go.
   -00:09:06:   [Flight Director]: TALCOM?
   -00:09:05:   [TALCOM]: We're go over here, flight.
   -00:09:04:   [Flight Director]: Launch Control, this is Shinkyō. We are go for flight, wish the crew the best of luck.
   -00:09:02:   [DTD]: Roger that, Shinkyō. Listen up, we are go for launch. End built-in-hold.
   -00:09:00:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: Shinkyō reports all flight controllers are go for launch, countdown is proceeding from nine minutes onwards.

   -00:02:00:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: We are currently two minutes away from liftoff and the weather is clear. The Orbiter Access Arm retracted about five and a half minutes ago and the engines are armed. T-1 minute and fifty seconds and counting. We are hearing that the oxidizer tanks in the first and second stages have fully pressurized. We continue to build up pressure here at the last minute to have it prepared for liftoff. T- one minute, thirty-five seconds on the UHS mission, the final flight of the UHS Block I spacecraft. All indications are coming into the ground control center that we are still GO. One minute, twenty-five seconds, and the second stage is fully pressurized. The 80 second mark has now been passed. We will go on full internal power once we pass the 50-second mark in the countdown. Guidance system goes on internal at 17 seconds leading up to the ignition sequence at 8.9 seconds. We're approaching the 60 second mark on the UHS-226 mission.
   -00:01:00:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: T-minus 60 seconds and counting. We have passed T-minus 60. 55 seconds and counting. We have passed the 50-second mark. Our transfer is complete. We're on internal power with the launch vehicle at this time.
   -00:00:40:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: 40 seconds away from the liftoff of UHS-226. All first stage tanks are now pressurized. 35-seconds and counting, we are still go.
   -00:00:31:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: 30 seconds and counting. Ūchunauts Akitomi, Haruno, Gusukuma, and Saejima are reportedly in good spirits. T-15 seconds, guidance is internal. 12... 11... 10...
   -00:00:10:   [DTD]: We are now go for main engine start.
   -00:00:10:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: Go for main engine start. T- 10... 9... 8... 7... 6... 5... All main engines are running. 2... 1... And LIFTOFF! Liftoff of Tenryū. On the shoulders of the Block I, Daitō will continue the dream of exploration future generations!

   +00:00:03:   [Akitomi]: Roger, clock is running and we have yaw.
   +00:00:10:   [Range Safety Officer]: Clear of the tower.
   +00:00:11:   [Akitomi]: Roger, tower cleared.
   +00:00:12:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: The tower has been cleared.
   +00:00:16:   [Akitomi]: Roll program.
   +00:00:17:   [Mission Control]: Roger roll, Tenryū.
   +00:00:19:   [Akitomi]: 610 meters.
   +00:00:54:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: Altitude is 3.2 kilometers and rising.
   +00:01:00:   [Mission Control]: Tenryū, Shinkyō, you are go at one minute.
   +00:01:02:   [Akitomi]: Roger.
   +00:01:24:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: We are going through maximum dynamic pressure. Tenjin's main engines are throttling down to reduce strain on the vehicle.
   +00:02:01:   [Mission Control]: Tenryū, go with throttle-up.
   +00:02:03:   [Akitomi]: Roger, go with throttle-up.
   +00:02:15:   [Mission Control]: Tenryū, go for staging.
   +00:02:18:   [Akitomi]: Roger, go for staging.
   +00:02:48:   [Akitomi]: We have stage separation and the MMEs are burning.
   +00:02:53:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: We have engine cutoff and stage separation. Tenryū's four main engines have ignition. The booster is pitching over and is preparing to glide back to the ASC. We will continue our coverage as the flight continues.
   +00:08:20:   [DHK - Daiki Funae]: We have external tank separation. Tenryū is in orbit for the last time.
(OOC Note: the latter half of the launch is skipped as there is nothing really of note to mention in it post first stage separation.

599
Character Guides / Re: Historical Figures of the Empire of Daitō
« on: July 26, 2022, 08:13:46 AM »
BIOGRAPHY
   Emperor Keiyō, born Crown Prince Shigenori, was the Emperor of Daitō from 1868 to 1932, during which time
the Empire saw great reform and victory over the Ardian Empire, bringing back its status as a Great Power in the
post-war world. But such changes were far away from the young Crown Prince back in the 1850s, rather, many in the
court feared that the Ardian Empire would soon invade. They were right to believe as such.

   Taking advantage of discord among the disaffected Bushi class, the Ardian Empire invaded Daitō in 1856, believing
that Daitō would fold and be forced into an unconditional surrender. They were proven wrong in this regard, with stiff
resistance forcing the Ardians to instead settle for limited territorial exchange up to the Tedori River in western Daitō,
which cost Daitō some of its prestige and forcing the court to move east, to Ashina, now Shinkyō. In early 1868, his
father, Emperor Go-Kaiyō, passed away, and thus, Crown Prince Shigenori was enthroned as Emperor Keiyo.

   Newly-enthroned, Emperor Keiyo's first five years saw both the overthrow of the Kampaku in what is known as
the Keiyo Restoration and a few further rebellions, notably the 1877 Tottori Rebellion, which saw Haruyoshi Nishiōji,
the lord of Tottori Province, which was crushed before the year was out and marked an end of the Samurai class in
Daitō and indeed and the final end of the old system of nobility, replaced with the Kazoku. This would be the
last truly major rebellion in the history of Daitō up to the modern day.

   One cannot discuss Emperor Keiyo without mentioning, however briefly, the Charter Oath of 1872, which detailed
his goals for his reign. Attached is an excerpt from it.
Quote from: Charter Oath of 1872
1. Deliberative assembly shall be widely established and all matters decided by public discussion.
2. All classes, high and low, shall unite in vigorously carrying out the administration of the affairs of state.
3. The common people, no less than the civil and military officials, shall be allowed to pursue their own calling so that there may be no discontent.
4. Evil customs of the past shall be broken off and everything based on the just laws of nature.
5. Knowledge shall be sought throughout the world so as to strengthen the foundation of Imperial rule.
6. When the time shall come, all efforts must be made for the dissolution of all states which threaten the Empire and its people."

   The next twenty years saw Daitō fulfill many of the goals of the Charter Oath, and in 1895, the Constitution of the Empire of
Daitō would be written and signed. Daitō would then face the horrors of the First Ardian War (part of the larger Great War), which
claimed many lives but reestablished the Empire as a prominent power on Mundus. The remainder of his years would be peaceful,
save for a brief conflict with Tytor in the late 1920s, with the most notable problem being a recession in the late 20s which would
more affect his heir's reign than his. Finally, on the 19th of November, 1932, Emperor Keiyo drew his last breath, dying peacefully
of old age at 79 years old. Before he died, knowing his time drew near, the Emperor wrote a death poem, translated and attached
below.
Quote from: Emperor Keiyo, 15 November, 1932
I do not fear death.
Like beautiful cherry trees,
Life shall bloom again.
FAMILY
      • Emperor Go-Kaiyō (Gorohachi, Father, 1827 - 1868)
      • Chiho Asukai (Mother, 1834 - 1906)
         • Hiroka Itahashi (Wife, 1855 - 1926)
            • Emperor Kunan (Naganori, Son, 1889 - 1973)
            • Ichiko Wakamatsu (Daughter-in-law, 1891 - 1976)
               • Crown Prince Norifumi (Grandson, 1916 - 1971)
               • Prince Ichie (Grandson, 1919 - 2010)
            • Princess Masako (Daughter, 1890 - 1968)
            • Haruhiko Yanagiwara (Son-in-law, 1889 - 1963)
               • Suketoshi Yanagiwara (Grandson, 1912 - 1991)
               • Daisuke Yanagiwara (Grandson, 1915 - 1979)
               • Koharu Yanagiwara (Granddaughter, 1916 - 1987)
            • Prince Gakuto (Son, 1893 - 1972)
            • Hiroko Sakurai (Daughter-in-law, 1894 - 1977)
               • Prince Katsunari (Grandson, 1919 - 2009)
         • Misuzu Arita (Concubine, 1872 - 1942)
            • Prince Mochihito (Son, 1897 - 1973)
            • Hanako Iwakura (Daughter-in-law, 1896 - 1969)
               • Prince Kimihiro (Grandson, 1923 - 1966)
            • Princess Saiko (Daughter, 1909 - 2005)
            • Kihachirō Tomoshige (Son-in-law, 1905 - 1983)
               • Naoko Tomoshige (Granddaughter, 1930 - Present)
               • Sadako Tomoshige (Granddaughter, 1932 - Present)
         • Princess Mizuko (Sister, 1855 - 1929)
         • Kensaku Hisamatsu (Brother-in-law, 1853 - 1930)
               • Daisuke Hisamatsu (Nephew, 1881 - 1954)
      • Princess Kaede (Aunt, 1818 - 1821)
      • Princess Etsuko (Aunt, 1820 - 1891)
      • Prince Iehiko (Uncle, 1829 - 1830)
      • Princess Kurenai (Aunt, 1839 - 1909)
      • Toshishige Heishi (Uncle, 1839 - 1914)
         • Toshikatsu Heishi (Cousin, 1861 - 1936)
         • Norio Heishi (Cousin, 1865 - 1916)
      • Prince Akihiko (Uncle, 1838 - 1904)
      • Princess Mayako (Aunt, 1840 - 1846)
      • Princess Nagako (Aunt, 1842 - 1908)
      • Princess Ritsuko (Aunt, 1842 - 1916)
   • Emperor Shoko (Nariakira, Grandfather, 1799 - 1861)
   • Chiyoko (Grandmother, 1803 - 1862)
   • Kazushige Asukai (Grandfather, 1798 - 1863)
   • Masako Itoi (Grandmother, 1802 - 1870)
NOTES
TBA
HONOURS
TBA
NOTABLE EVENTS
TBA

Shigenori
Title(s):
Emperor Keiyō
DOB:
4 June, 1853
DOD:
19 November, 1932
Age:
79
Positions Held:
 • Crown Prince of Daitō (1853 - 1868)
 • Emperor of Daitō (1868 - 1932)
Political Affiliation:
Education:
Classical Education
Later educated in the fine arts

600
Diplomacy and Events / Re: A Private Message To Crown Princess Serenity
« on: July 26, 2022, 06:30:33 AM »
Suketoshi was late, even if by only a few minutes, and there was no denying that much; alas, he had been caught up in a number of phone calls after the meeting. His Imperial Majesty wanted to be updated the moment he got out, as did the cabinet and a few members of the Diet. Simply put, all hell had broken loose, with the press office rushing to put out a statement in light of the announcement that Daitō would be terminating its relationship with the CSTO even ahead of the proposed referendum. Would it negate the need for it, would the referendum simply confirm the people's support for this move, or would it be seen as violating their trust? It remained to be seen, and indeed there was the possibility that the decision would only be made public after the referendum was to be held, which was pretty much a certainty as the Diet was voting as he approached the Imperial Council Chambers. He would be allowed in, at which point he would say,
   "My sincerest apologies for being behind schedule, unfortunately, my duties to the Empire got in the way." He bowed slightly as he entered the room. "I presume you haven't gotten far, so I shall attempt to follow along until such a point that I am up to speed, so please, let us continue." He said as he took a seat. He had remembered, to some degree, what Kyōko had written, and overhearing her mention it had helped to jog his memory somewhat, but he figured he shouldn't speak on it until he had been granted the chance to review the notes as well, just in case he may have missed something.

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