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11
Vignettes / Re: Asadal Playhouse
« Last post by paralipomena on March 26, 2024, 06:37:18 PM »
Heavenly Palace, Hwangjin



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



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

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

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

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

Grand Royal Guards: Yes, Your Grand Majesty.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grand King Wonhyo: I hope as well.



12
Economics and Industry / Re: Daitōjin Ground Forces Equipment Catalogue
« Last post by Daitō on March 25, 2024, 11:48:58 PM »
T65 155mm Howitzer
RoleTowed Howitzer
ManufacturerZayasu Heavy Industries
Crew7 + 1
Weight4,200 kg
Length10.7 m
Barrel Length5.08 m
Shell:Various
Caliber155mm
Effective Firing RangeT97: 21 km
T670: 30 km
Kusanagi: 40 km
Other CapabilitiesVariants:
   T65S2 - Block 1A software upgrade. Addition of an Enhanced Portable Inductive Artillery Fuze Setter (EPIAFS) to enable Kusanagi and and precision munition compatibility.
   T65ER - Upgrade created by the Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) project to extend range from 30 to 70 km.
Ammunition:
   T97 - 155mm High Explosive round
   T301S1 - 155mm High Explosive Rocket Assisted (HERA) Projectile
   T774 - 155mm Cannon-Launched Guided Projectile
   T796 - 155mm High Explosive Projectile
   T670 - 155mm High Explosive Extended Range Full Bore Projectile
   T840 Kusanagi - 155mm Extended Range Guided Projectile
Cost$2.025 million
BackgroundThe T65 howitzer is a towed 155mm artillery piece in the howitzer class. First seeing combat in the Second Kalasin War, the T65 first entered service in 2005 with the Imperial Fusanese Army, replacing the older T38. The T65 is capable of firing a wide array of shells, most notably the T840 Kusanagi, an extended range guided projectile with an effective range of 40 kilometers and a theoretical maximum range of 70. While it is capable of being operated by just five people, in most situations, it will be crewed instead by eight.
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Economics and Industry / Re: Daitōjin Ground Forces Equipment Catalogue
« Last post by Daitō on March 25, 2024, 11:34:16 PM »
T49 105mm Howitzer
RoleTowed field gun
ManufacturerZayasu Heavy Industries
Crew5 - 7
Weight2,320 kg
Length4.85 m
Barrel Length3.2 m
Shell:Various
Caliber105mm
Effective Firing Range17.5 km
Other CapabilitiesCapable of being dropped via parachute
Cost$1.9 million
BackgroundThe T49 is a 105 mm howitzer used by the Imperial Fusanese Army and Marines. A licensed copy of a foreign design, the T49, owing to its design, is intended to be towed to its firing positions by another vehicle, most commonly the Uma, and can be easily airlifted by helicopter, or airdropped by parachute.
14
International News Networks / Re: Northfort News
« Last post by DaveIronside on March 25, 2024, 07:15:48 PM »




PRINCESS DEMANDS "CHIP ACT" KING KIND OF AGREES

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

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

Princess Rhiannon is due to head to Portworth for a week during the school holiday which begins on Friday. She is due to spend time with her mother Matilda Osman and has spoken of her excitement about learning to kite-surf. Restaurants across the Portworth region are keeping extra chips on standby.
15
Diplomacy and Events / To The Point of It
« Last post by Renaku on March 25, 2024, 01:36:14 PM »
Dear Mr. Maxwell Power

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

Deepest Respects
Burhanettin Tiryaki
Grand Vizier of the Renaku Royal Family.
16
International News Networks / Re: Juglander Review
« Last post by paralipomena on March 25, 2024, 12:22:25 PM »

Juglander Review

Mktvartvelo: National Assembly passes tax reform



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

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

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

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


17
Vignettes / Re: Mktvartvelo: Blood, Soul, and Power
« Last post by paralipomena on March 25, 2024, 10:41:18 AM »
Shoreuli Sakhli Palace, Ktsatskuri


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



18
International News Networks / Re: Rokkenjima Broadcasting Corporation (RBC)
« Last post by Beatrice on March 25, 2024, 01:16:27 AM »


Empress, Grand Duchess Host Charity Gala


The Empress finds her attention captured by the Earl of Eastwood whilst Grand Duchess Sophia enjoys a dance with Chen-ri, royal head of the erstwhile Kaeje state which once existed upon Fukadomari.

Kajūkuri served as the backdrop for the first annual Charity Gala, gathering influential individuals from across the Empire in addition to guests from foreign nations. Benefiting ongoing aid efforts to war torn Kalasin and the Azukishima Prefecture Orphanage, causes close to the hearts of the Imperial Family, an estimated र10.9m ($20.2m) from ticket sales, sponsorships from Abstergo Industries, Rosa Shipyards, Imperial Standard Energy and Crystal Mountain Records, live auction and donations. Artists from Rokkenjima and Dartfordia provided a variety of live entertainment, while the Ashinxao Symphony Orchestra performed live for the ball itself. Both the Empress and the Grand Duchess were in attendance, with the Empress being joined by the Earl of Eastwood, Tytor, and the Grand Duchess being joined by the royal head of the erstwhile Kaeje state which once governed Fukadomari. Following the fall of the Kaeje state his family navigated the following circumstances to remain a wealthy and influential family within the Empire.

Joining the party of the Empress was Hal Morgan (the richest man in Tytor) and the Duke and Duchess of Vigil, parents of Thomas, the Earl of Eastwood.

An extensive list of Fusanese attended the Charity Gala including Chikao Rokuda (Chairman of the Zayasu Corporation, which is the largest trading company in Fusan), Hironori Okuno, Group President of Zayasu UFF Financial Group, Fumio Oketani, President of Isuzu Motors (a major automotive manufacturer), Baron Haruki Shinohara, President of Arasaka (an electronics manufacturer), Yukari Sato, Chairwoman of Ito-Yokado (a major retailer in Fusan), and Haruo Mizutani, a prominent Fusanese art collector. Corporate sponsors from Fusan include Zayasu, Ito-Yokado, Isuzu Motors and Nakamura Trading Company.

The slate of artists from Rokkenjima included Babymetal, Hatsune Miku, YOASOBI and Queens of the Stone Age. Dartfordian stalwarts Muse were joined by a few special guests following them on a personal request from the Empress which saw Paul McCartney and Ringo Star, the surviving members of the Beatles, to join Julian Lennon and Dhani Harrison, sons of John Lennon and George Harrison, receptively, unite to play a selection of songs as The Beatles for one, final, time. Speaking with the RBC McCartney stated "it was never our intention, never, to do something like this, trust me we'd been approached before for such reunion ideas but we always said no because the magic can never be re-bottled. However for the causes in mind, it would have been difficult for us to say no to something like this, I'd like to think John and George are out there somewhere smiling over it, so we did it, and that the effort is helping people in need made it all the more easier for Ringo and I to say yes."

In addition to funds raised by the Charity Gala itself the Empress pledged to personally match the funds raised, bringing the total figure raised to र21.8m ($40.4m). "I understand that I, and those like me, are fortunate and that there are so many out there that lack the advantages I've had my entire life. What use is a fortune if it is not used to make the world around you a better place? As Empress I have every want and need fulfilled before I even know what they are, yet there are those abroad and, indeed, those within my borders who face hardships I couldn't begin to imagine the toll and impact they would mark my life with. All of us can make more money, we can't make more love, more time nor more precious moments than those which are granted to us by our Gods, Goddesses and creators. We're also all here only for a brief moment in time, a twinkling in the vast history of the cosmos we call home, and while I recognize few can drop millions toward any cause before them, we all have the power to effect positive change in the world we all share, even if it's something as simple as putting a smile on the face of another, donating time, blood or food to those less fortunate, it's the act, certainly, not the quantity which ultimately tips the scales," the Empress shared with the RBC.

For her part the Grand Duchess echoed the comments of the Empress. "Everyone living is empowered to make the world around them better, whether it be as a diplomat in the cause for peace, or one making a donation toward a cause which lessens suffering upon Mundus. While the news is filled with contests between nations, at the end of the day, whether we're Rokkenjiman, Kalasinese, Fusanese...none of that matters, truly. We're all people, seeking to make the best of our lives, to see that those in our lives are looked after well; we all have families, loved ones, friends and ourselves. We've made an impact here tonight but that accomplishment is nothing in the face of what every person who lives on Mundus can do if they seek to make Mundus a better place for all. All and each of us can make an impactful difference on the world around us, we only need to choose to do so."
19
International News Networks / Re: Lodja Times
« Last post by Libby on March 24, 2024, 10:37:15 PM »




QUEEN TO PROPOSE TIZER AGREEMENT

Queen Natalya is due to travel to Bakkermaya in the coming week in order to meet with representatives of Bakkermaya and Paracambi in order to formulate what she is called the TIZER agreement. The Queen hopes that the agreement will allow the islands of the Northern Alucard to work together to boost each nations economy as well as support the growth of Water Nomad engagement in the region. "The Tri-Island Zone for Economic Relations will be primarily aimed at working together to ensure we can sustainably use the resources of the region to help all three of us. One issue that we have is that the involvement of the Water Nomad within the region can often make the situation regarding the movement of goods and safety of the environment an issue. So far we've largely turned a blind eye to working together and now we need to start making changes. If I get the deal I would like then I will be pushing to make it easier for business owners to move between the islands and also maximise the way these mainly small businesses can work."

The Queen is also expected to try and get a visit to Lymm into the coming weeks saying, "Lymm sits on the opposite coast of the Alucard and is a nation of great potential. I want to see if we can find ways of encouraging them to become an economic partner in the region and I intend to formally invite them to become a part of TUNA. I also desperately want to view more of Mundus and intend to in the coming months." The Queen is expected to also host one of the summer balls this year outside of Lodja. The Queen explained. "We have seen other nations have great success with diplomacy utilising what could be considered cultural exchanges as a way of forging friendships. I think our ball season is exceptionally well positioned to allow us to do this and while nations we've a friendship with like East Moreland, Neu Urburzis and Ui Cenneslaig it makes sense to try and take the experience to new nations therefore I would like to perhaps go to Tanith or Eborcium. Both are continental neighbours whom we have yet to become close friends."

The Queen is currently in the midst of drafting new legislation which, if it goes ahead, would change the nations education system. "We've allowed standards to be too low for too long and we've placed in the past far too much emphasis on nepotism. This is going to change if our economy is to keep growing. Currently we're seeing it slow as we have a shortage of high end skilled workers. " The Queen has yet to reveal any information on what changes she imagines are needed.
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Diplomacy and Events / Re: Art and Diplomacy (Lodja and NU + maybe others)
« Last post by Libby on March 24, 2024, 09:53:28 PM »
Elena, or as she was calling herself for this little task "Lara" , agreed that they'd need someone watching from the river and while she'd have loved some more manpower available it was probably for the best that they handle this with a little more discretion. She had gone out to a local store selling brewing equipment and picked up some of the tools of the wine trade, test equipment for pH balances, alcohol levels and various other things. A nice neat briefcase was a must have in her line of work and so these were now placed into the briefcase which had a small camera stored in the handle. At least she'd look the part. Meeting with Kurt she headed towards the target and hoped the royal would be able to handle the formalities of getting them a look inside, at which point her eyes and the camera could deal with the rest.
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