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Messages - Kopsje

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1
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: January 21, 2024, 04:59:48 AM »
Can you remove AUS and replace with Kopsje in

Nation Name:Kopsje

Nation Link:
Provinces you wish to claim:
1:  o12
2:  o11
3:  o13
4: 
5:
6:

Proposed colour of your nation on the map: any

I, Kopsje, have read the rules set down above, and agree to follow them.

2
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: October 07, 2023, 08:36:01 PM »
Could you remove Ezitha, and replace it with The Ardian Union State/AUS in G-40

3
Vignettes / Ezithea Chronicles
« on: September 24, 2023, 08:37:57 PM »
Olamtali I

“Keep it steady!” Takuq commanded, his vision solely focused on the ball that had evaded him for so long. It was almost his. He could feel it. He just needed his navigator to play the role well and the game as as good as theirs. It had been a hard fought one too each team having earned a remarkable five points each, now it was a matter of who wanted it more. Though desire played but a small part of it. The true test of was which team could fluidly move as one, be so focused and in sync that their play would be flawless. Only the most compatible would be rewarded with the fruits of victory.


“Steady!” Takuq commanded again.

“Next time you navigate then, Tak!” came the annoyed reply of Takuq’s partner, Aglakti, their navigator.

“Maybe I will…” Takuq muttered under his breath. Yet they both knew it wouldn’t come to pass. Aglakti was simply a better navigator, and in turn Takuq was the better driver.

It had always been something Takuq held a suppressed envy for. He had always wanted to be a navigator yet his attempts at doing so always worked against his favor. He’d stumble a command and cost the team a point. Other times he was too harsh, and their team suffered a game for it, yet other times he was too hesitant giving away points that easily could have been theirs.

Even when Aglakti spent hours one-on-one to help him he never seemed to quite get the hang of it. One time he’d become so overcome with frustration at it all he’d verbally lashed out at Aglakti. As if his mentor had somehow intentionally been making it all too complicated for him. It was that night that fated Aglakti to be the navigator. Amidst it all Aglakti was patient with Takuq, emphasizing with him and even enduring the harsh immature verbal assaults his friend hurled at him.

“Tak! The ball!” Aglakti had practically screamed it.

A pit of despair had wrung itself inside of Takuq, who had allowed his mind to wander, lose focus. A pitiful attempt was made by him to catch the ball with his driving stick. The elongated pole with three pronged like teeth just barely missed the ball, instead scraping the dusty ground indenting three lines as it did so. The ball almost tauntingly remained still not even moved by the erratic motion of Takuq’s lunge.

It was then, the large grey tree trunk like leg of his opponent’s mount came into Takuq’s vision. First one leg then another, and soon enough the monstrous silhouette of the creature overshadowed the ball. With abject horror Takuq witnessed his opponent-driver rake up the ball with his own driving stick, in one fluid motion as if his driving pole were an extension of his own arm.

What followed was a blur, though Takuq was conscious of it. Witnessing but unable to react in any regard.

The trumpeting of their opponents Elephant mount preceded their dash to Takuq and Aglakit’s own net. Aglakit, undeterred, navigated their own elephant mount to intercept perhaps hoping that by some manner of luck the sheer size of the elephant would block their opponent scoring.
 A trumpeting of its own in acknowledgement of Aglakits instruction, and the elephant made its own way towards the net. It was all for not though; everyone could tell. By the time Aglikat, Takuq, and their mount (Lak) had reached their opponent’s, the ball had already been shot by their opposing driver. Unremorsefully and with the velocity of determination the ball darted towards the net striking furthest inner bottom pole.

A final echoing ring of rubber on metal heralded Tukaq’s failure and his team’s loss. Tukaq was sure Aglakit was saying something to him, but he couldn't hear it. Or perhaps his mind, still reeling from his own failure, wouldn't allow him to hear. Even the loud roaring cheers and clapping of the spectators surrounding them seemed all but a faint and distant hum to him.

Such it was Tukaq and Aglakit had lost yet another game of Olamatli. 


Context Notes:
Olamatli is a popular ball and stick game within Ezithea. The main goal is to 'drive' a ball into an opposing team's net to score points.
The game has three main participants that form a team:
- A driver whom controls a driving stick used to direct the ball.
- A Navigator whom directs and guides the teams mount
- A mount which is the most prominent feature of the game as mounts are often and traditionally Elephants, though variations of the game may substitute elephants for horses or camels.

The elephants of Ezithea are believed to originate from Kermah (Pending Kermah's approval), having migrated south into Ezithea millennia ago. The Ezithean elephant is noticeably smaller than its northern relatives making their taming and mount-ability relatively more of ease.

4
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: August 28, 2023, 08:05:06 PM »

Nation Name: Ezithea

Nation Link: Under Ezithea

Provinces you wish to claim:
1: B 30
2:
3:
4:
5:
6:

Proposed colour of your nation on the map: Any

I, Kopsje , have read the rules set down above, and agree to follow them.

5
OOC Socialisation / Re: TIO Annual Christmas Card 2022
« on: December 08, 2022, 03:44:07 AM »

6
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: August 22, 2022, 04:16:49 AM »
Could you remove Sudmark?

7
Sporting Hub / Re: Mundus Games 2022 - OOC/Sign Up
« on: July 09, 2022, 02:05:40 AM »

Addressing: Mundus Games Committee, President Isabel Sullivan
From: Mundus Games National Committee - Südmark

Dame Isabel Sullivan,

Once again, the excitement of another Mundus Games is upon us. The excitement of Team Südmark, and our country in general is hardly contained as preliminary celebrations are being carried out across our homeland in preparation for this year's Games. I hope all is equally lively in your own home country and the weather should prove agreeable as you enjoy the wanning weeks of summer and prepare for the coming winter. As the games are upon us, I write to you to provide our committee’s assessment on Südmark’s viability to participate this year, as well as the committee’s decision on support of potential Hosts for this year’s games.

Having reviewed qualifying participants, the committee is proud to announce Mannschaft Südmark’s ability to participate in this year’s games. Mannschaft Sudmark has expressed their eagerness to showcase Sudmarich sportsmanship in our countries debut participation, with enough qualifying athletes to participate in each competing activity. Though all of our participating athletes have displayed an excellent preliminary performance in their individual categories the Committee has observed and believes Mannschaft Südmark’s strongest contenders to be within the Equstrian cross country, and Ball & Stick Hockey categories. Whether this proves to be true or not remains to be seen.

Now as for the committee’s vote for this year's Host. I will be frank the committee has concerns with this year's bids. Though I know we should not let politics interfere in our decisions I cannot control each and every committee member and their personal views. However, I assure you we have limited the committees voting concerns to be solely related with what aspects might affect our athletes and those of other competing countries. Though Clysperis has shown great strides to address concerns the world over, the committee is still hesitant in regard to Clysperis’ past with internal conflict having ended less than four years ago. For this we are concerned that the effects of said conflict and its fallout could pose potential danger to the participating athletes as well as visiting viewers and tourists.

I have followed the developments of the ‘Setri Project’ (myself having a personal interst in architecture) and while there is certainly something admirable about raising a metropolis from desert sands, many members of the committee are concerned with the facilities within Setri proposed as venues. To put it bluntly, though the venues of Setri are certainly ‘Grand’ and eye catching they are none the less ‘new’, and while not a problem in of itself, concerns of the Committee range from inquiries about the safety of reusing old soviet era buildings (despite how remodeled), to the unknown safety concerns that come with untested venues of such a scale. While I have no personal opinion one way or the other, as per rules of the committee's voting I must follow the majority.

It is for these reasons the National Committee of Südmark officially casts its vote for the city of Azarelia, of the Unitary State of Mktvartvelo, to host this year's Mundus Games.

Regards,
Committee Chairwomen
Isolde Brüner

8
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: May 20, 2022, 01:01:16 AM »
Would it be possible to move Sudmark to: B-64 and B-65?

9
Diplomacy and Events / ROLE-PLAY DIRECTORY
« on: April 15, 2022, 02:27:30 AM »
This thread is intended to act as a directory of sorts and organize RP threads for ease of accesses. Listed Here will be a variety of categories of RP threads and short summary of the threads content/purpose.  If you have a thread you are the author of or apart of a thread you'd like listed feel free to DM either here on the forum of on the Discord @---.

The Format will be as follows:
CATAGORY
Thread title (*Host/OP*)
Summary of the RP  Thread
(clickable) Link to actual thread



INTERTNATIONAL TREATIES
Spoiler: show
Mundus Convention of Universal Rights (MCUR)
An International treaty that seeks to establish a foundation for universal rights of all peoples on mundus on the basis of individual liberty and unalienable (when permissible) human rights.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=18.msg30#msg30   

Uppsala convention
An international treaty that seeks to establish a uniformed code of conduct for engaging in warfare, including the protection of Prisoners of War, dissuading intentional targeting of civilians, and banning inhuman weapons on a large-scale use. 

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=17.msg29#msg29


Fair Seas Concordant (FSC)
International treaty that seeks to establish international law in regards to nautical travel, exploitation of oceanic resources and establishing the boundaries and protection of said boundaries for individual Costal countries.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=15.msg27#msg27


Outer Space Standards Convention (OSSC)
International treaty seeking to regulate the space exploration through means of international cooperation, dissuading the usage of space or orbital weaponization, and individual country claims of celestial objects or areas.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=248.msg1047#msg1047


Cross Mundus Agency (CMA)
An international Organization in which Signatory countries agree to collaborate to address crises across the mundus through joint effort including humanitarian efforts, promotion od development in underdeveloped countries and assisting in large scale natural disasters, among others.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=263.msg1164#msg1164


Environmental Treaty of Wellow
International treaty originating within the Alucard region and having expanded mundus wide, this treaty seeks to address the concern of environmental threats including ocean pollution, global warming, and the promotion of green alternatives for fossil fuel energies. 

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1213.msg10288#msg10288


Treaty for the Protection of Hygelac and Hrothgar
International treaty that seeks to promote the peaceful exploration of the Artic and Antarctic continents of  Hygelac and Hrothgar by establishing international research stations, joint scientific research, dissuading  national claims of territory in either continent and prohibiting the establishment of militaristic facilities or buildup in either continent.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=347.msg2021#msg2021


Mundus Atomic Energy Agency (MAEA)
An international treaty that seeks to promote the peacfull application of atomic energy through regulation of the transfer of nuclear material, oversight and cooperation in civilian atomic projects and discouraging the production of atomic weapons.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1627.msg14386#msg14386


Cultural Exchange Treaty Organization (CETO)
Non government international organization, seeking to promote cultural understanding and learning across the Mundus via the preservation and study of artifacts and cultural heritage sites.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=85.msg228#msg228


Wild Mundus Organization (WMO)
International Ecological organization seeking to promote the protection of threated flora and fauna, and regulation of over exploitation of said flora or fauna.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1343.msg11581#msg11581


b]Joint Emergency Team[/b] (JET)
International Organization seeking to respond and address crisis and international emergencies through nonmilitary aid and means.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=373.msg2213#msg2213


International Refugee Support Agency (IRSA)
Non government organization that seeks to assist displaced peoples due to crises, by supporting refugee rights, providing safe areas for temporary stay, and providing services needed. 

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1226.msg10370#msg10370


Child Birth Initiative (CBI)
Non-government International Charity, which aims to address infant, child, and mother morality across Mundus.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=885.msg7012#msg7012


GEOPOLITICAL BLOCS & INTERNTIONAL ALLIANCES
Spoiler: show
Alba Karinya Organization (AKO)
Continental Organization promoting collaboration and cooperation on international mattes among countries located in Alba Karinya.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=574.msg4256#msg4256


Assembly of Ardia (AoA)
Continental Organization open to countries located within Ardia. Seeks to promote peace and collaboration among Ardian nations, and  address continental issues and crises.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1126.msg9334#msg9334


Council of Albion (CoA)
Continental Organization open to countries located within Albion. Seeks to promote peace and collaboration throughout the continent, and act as an forum to deescalate or address crisis in a peaceful manner.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=549.msg4023#msg4023


Gulf of Auraxis Agreement (GAA)
Regional Economic Organization among Auraxis gulf countries

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2608.msg23734#msg23734


Treaty of Unity for Alucard Nations (TUNA)
Regional economic-defense treaty seeking to promote security and economic cooperation among Alucard nations and region.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=974.msg7738#msg7738


Sovereign Union of Nations (SUN)
Political organization founded on the idea of National Sovereignty and seeks to promote this idea through like-minded countries and collaboration.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2163.msg19255#msg19255


Treaty of Celtic Friendship/Celtic Alliance
Cultural alliance promoted around the celebration of Celtic Culture 

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1142.msg9513#msg9513


Conradh na Náisiún (CNN)
Political Alliance, promoting mutual defense, economic preference, and close collaboration amongst its members. 

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=90.msg242#msg242


Oil and Gas Producing Exporting Nations (OPEN)
International Organization comprised mainly of Oil rich countries which seek to regulate the flow and value of petroleum and natural gas as well as cooperation amongst each other in developing these industries.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=970.msg7703#msg7703


Mhorish and Illumic Co-operative Agency  (MICA)
Regional Organization catering to countries with shorelines along the Mhorish Sea or Illumic Channel, promoting cooperation in diplomatic affairs and trade.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=915.msg7256#msg7256


Cross Straits Treaty Organization (CSTO)
 Political-Military Alliance founded on the ideals of Democracy, Individual Liberty, Rule of Law and mutual defense.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1582.msg13986#msg13986


South Ardian New Electorate (SANE)
Regional Organization seeking to promote peace among South Ardian nations, economic cooperation, and military aid.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1385.msg11912#msg11912


ECONOMICS & FINANCE
Spoiler: show
Mundus Economy Statictics Chart
An open source collaborative project undertaken and led by Nova to collect basic data on Mundus' Countries economies for quick reference.
 
https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=36.msg69#msg69


Mundus Development Bank 
Interntional Monetary fund founded to help less developed countries with economic assistance through interntional loans

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1117.msg9226#msg9226


Albrektberg Stock Exchange (ASE)
Stock Market hosted within Albrektberg-Jugland, Mktvartvelo

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2308.msg20989#msg20989


Petrograd Stock Exchange(PSE)
Stock Market hosted within Petrograd, Samantra

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2493.msg22748#msg22748


Expuria Stock Exchange  (ESE)
Stock Market hosted within Exuperia, Rokkenjima

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=143.msg518#msg518


Investments in the Clysperi Obelisk
Investmet oppurtunty within Clysperis and the planned-city & economic hub of Setri

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2499.msg22816#msg22816


Achkaerin Aeronautical Development Company (AADC)
Achkaerinese premier Arcraft Manufacturer, catoluge of inventory and sellable aircraft to other countries; Civilian and Military

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1660.msg14704#msg14704


The East Moreland Aircraft Company Catalouge
East Moreland Aircraft Company (EMAC), premier catoluge of equpiment for sell to other countries or clients. Military, Civilian, Scientific 

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=987.msg7950#msg7950


Parebi Systems Closed
Public declassified Inventory of Parebi Systems' current projects and completed Hardware; Military-Scentific

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2561.msg23286#msg23286


THE DAITŌJIN AEROSPACE INDUSTRY
Premier catalogue of Datiojin Aircraft and vehicles to sell to other countries; Military-Civilian

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2804.msg25706#msg25706


SPORTS AND CONVENTIONS
Spoiler: show
Gowu Fashion Show 2022 (Achkaerin)
Fashionistas, designers, and afficionados have arrived at the Artisan House in Gowu to display, promote, and exchange their designs and ideas with like minded members of the industry and community from the all around the mundus. It is said that Gowu Chief Councilor, Xioling Tsu, will be in attendance as well.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2580.msg23461#msg23461


Royal Highland Games (KrisNord)
In association with the Celtic Treaty of Friendship, King Finley of Ui Cenneslaig has made an open invitation to all interested to view the Highland games and engage in their celebrations.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2590.msg23574#msg23574


Spirit of Mundus
A nautical Museum sponsored by Achkearin meant to serve as a floating Museum. Countries or parties, are invited to reserve a room to display their culture or art to be displayed across the major ports of Mundus.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2248.msg20287#msg20287

Blue Launch Party
Launch and opening of the 'Blue Project' of Royal Seleucid. A contemporary take on world fairs and symposiums. Interested countries are inclined to contact RS Blue Project to reserve a 'pod' to display their country's culture or economic ventures.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1966.msg17209#msg17209



DIPLOMACY
Spoiler: show
Reunion for Abraham (Rayyu)
Emir Sulaiman Samar El-Amin, has invited prominent individuals and leaders of Abrahamic faiths to Rayyu to discuss cooperation and address the future of said faiths approach to international Issues 

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2572.msg23370#msg23370

Conference on the RSCU (Rokkenjima)
Empress Evanthe Rhodes of Rokkenjima invites neighboring countries to discuss the potential of forming a diplomatic-economic Union among fellow Rokkenjima Sea region countries.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2584.msg23479#msg23479


Breaking of Holy Ground (Kermah)
In celebration of the completion of construction of the Basilica of St. Arcadeius, the largest Christian church within Kermah, Archbishop Emeka Abiodun has made an open invitation to all to partake in celebration and first mass.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2565.msg23327#msg23327


Visit Between Faiths (Rokkenjima)
Lady Yuna, Grand Maester of the Rosari Faith, has invited prominent individuals of all non Abrahamic faiths to discuss potential cooperation and discussion on issues of faith and international issues.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2588.msg23536#msg23536



Council of Maesters (Rokkenjima)
Leaders of the Rosari faith convene to discuss issues and challenges the faith faces and cooperation with international troubles.   

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2573.msg23379#msg23379 
 

Festivo do Toras 2022 (Vaguzia) 
Prominent individuals are invited to enjoy the annual celebration of Vaguzian tradition known as the Festivo do Toras, internationally known for its bullfights and immersive celebrations of Vaguzian culture.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2619.msg23812#msg23812



EVENTS
Spoiler: show
Terrible Swift Sword (Tytor)
Political turmoil within the Republic of Centralia has boiled over into open civil war. The Federal Government and currently official government of Centralia is often accused of large scale corruption enforcing its power through oppressive means; whether true or not the Federal Government must now fight for its legitimacy against opposing factions that seek the replace it. Pastor Nehemiah Godfrey, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army; a militant Christian organization often perceived as fundamentalist and extremist in nature, seeks to cleanse Centralia of its woes and reshape the country and its society according to Book. Meanwhile the People’s Liberation Army, led by the elusive Commandant John Browder, has secured a number of southern states from Federal control, and seeks to replace the government with their own.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2503.msg22878#msg22878


Trident, The Survivors and The Q (Achkaerin)
In the mid 1990’s a genocide against practitioners of the Earagon faith within Rodina followed by hostile policies against the faith and its institutions. Since the event the Earagon Faith has seemingly vanished from the face of mundus on any noticeable scale yet still the faith appears to prevail with individuals around mundus seemingly holding on to their faith though rarely mentioning anything about it. Melanie Bell, archaeologist and explorer, hopes to uncover the secrets surrounding this mysterious religion and what caused such hostile action towards its faithful.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2488.msg22720#msg22720


Dark Waters (RP Mod Team)
The Oceans Blessing a, Nueva Ardian Oil Tanker operated by the “Andino Oil Company”, has struck a reef damaging the tanker causing a large spill in the Kyne sea near the North Albion Region. Countries and individual actors race to address the situation or profit from the crisis.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2559.msg23249#msg23249

In Sebastian Cristeas's Paradise (Nova)
Patriarch of the Influential Vinitsìan family of Cristea, Sebastian, and alleged lead Mafia figure, is always seeking to further expand his enterprises influence be it contact's buisness parterns, or supplying so called 'illegal' materials to those in need.     

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2725.msg24894#msg24894

Cherno-ball
Following the completion of Lijiangese Nuclear Facility Wengchangzhen 1, Head of the the Altonan Electrical Syndicate (AES), Professor Jozef Thibaun, has invited government officals the Mundus' over to celebrate the 'grand opening' of the facility. It is said the Dragon Emperor of Lijiang, aswell as King of Altona, Rutger, will be in attendance aswell.

https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=2757.msg25159#msg25159
 

10
Press Offices / Re: Press Office of Social Media
« on: February 07, 2022, 07:10:05 AM »

11
Map / Map: Country Rename Request
« on: February 07, 2022, 07:08:27 AM »
Hey so sorry in advance, but could you rename Kopsje as Sudmark, and replace B-77 claim with B-69? For convenience you could just shorten the name as SDM on the map.

12
Sporting Hub / Re: Winter Games 2022 - OOC Sign Ups
« on: January 24, 2022, 11:50:46 PM »
Spoiler: withdrawn • show
Nation Name: Saalrau
Three letter nation abbrev: SLR
Specialist Disciplines:

* Alpine Skiiing



13
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: January 20, 2022, 09:39:52 AM »
Nation Name: Kopsje

Nation Link:
Fourm Link
NS Link

Provinces you wish to claim:
1:B 77
2:
3:
4:
5:
6:

Proposed colour of your nation on the map: Any

I, _Kopsje_, have read the rules set down above, and agree to follow them.

14
International News Networks / Re: Der Post - Sudmark News
« on: December 27, 2021, 07:37:52 AM »
In Brief

Clashes between religious groups
The 25th of September has, historically, held importance among various faiths within the international community with the Chrstian celebration of "Christmas"; the Odinisit celebration of "Yule"; and the Namist celebration of "Life Day", all holding the 25th in a high regard to some degree. Within the Federation there is no special recognition of 25th and while this fact has often been the subject of debate and criticism, both within the Electorate and around the country, the government has remained firm on its stance on the subject. Recent events may prove to solidify the government's stance further.

Violent Clashes have erupted throughout the country following a widespread video showing a disagreement between Odinists and Christian practitioners. In the video a young couple is seen cutting off a snipping from a mistletoe plant pocketing it supposedly to take home. Moments later a group of men can be seen approaching the two demanding the couple return the snipping and leave. This leads to an argument between the two groups resulting in eventual fighting.

It is suspected the cause of the fight is the mistletoe. Within the Odinist faith mistletoe has spiritual significance and is often grown for religious reasons as is customary in the Republic of Nya Aland. Though the Federation has no official stance on this particular practice, such plant and tree farms or "Groves" by their spiritual name, are protected under private property laws and thusly are not an uncommon sight in regions with notable Odinisit practitioners.   

A local legal case has found both parties guilty of breaking established laws, with the young couple found guilty of trespassing on private property, while the Odinists were found guilty of assualt. They have been sentenced to five months & 1 and 3 months in prison respectively. It is largely believed that this ruling, in addition to the video, have become the cause of an outbreak of violence by the two groups with vocal Christians voicing their anger at a government whom they see as unwilling to protect them in favor of Odinists. In contrast, vocal Odinists are voicing their own anger at the government for favoring Christians over themselves. The Government has yet to make an official statement on the subject.

Firefight sees seven dead   
A firefight in the Region of Luchöw erupted between Local Authorities and members of the Elsheim Syndicate, an organized criminal group known for human trafficking, among other things. The incident occurred in a raid by authorities following an anonymous tip about a warehouse where the Syndicate was supposedly holding captives. According to some accounts by nearby residents the incident lasted between 25-36 minutes the resulting in the deaths of two police and four syndicate members while three others were taken into custody. Though no capitves were found, authorities have confirmed that the warehouse was being used as an isolated surgical facility, most likely to perform organ harvesting operations.

The incident has become one of many in recent years with the Government having vowed to "Adress and ultimately stomp out Sudmarks rampant crime". The country has seen an alarming rise in organized crime activity throughout all regions of the federation with an estimated twelve separate Syndicate groups having been identified by the Federal Security Bureau (FSB) thus far. The Rise in crime is largely attributed to the Long Winter and its economic consequences, with many individuals taken into custody often being rather young.         

In recent years criminal elements in Sudmark have become infamous for establishing an elaborate and country wide network of organ harvesting and narcotic trafficking. Something that has seen the rise of many new and the thriving of old Syndicate groups   
Around the Welt

* Aostan Prince Dead

* Civil war continues in Halych

* DNSA makes progress

* EM expecting

* Sultan of Wadden Poisoned

* Djabidjan: Kim Yoo-ri new leader of Democratic Party

* Weltmeisterschaft finals

15
The idea of a Nordic Empire sounds interesting and compatible with Drenovias own history. If Rob and Kris are okay with it what if: there was an old Nordic Empire that encompassed say the territories of ES, Sudmark, and whatever would have been Nya Aland and UNP prior to the former's annexation of the latter? 

Additionally, this Nordic Empire could have maintained good relations with Drenovia and balanced power within Southern Albion/Antilian region, that is until the rapid expansion of Christianity in the region. The faith would expand into the Empire's Southern Albion territories, (atm just ES & Sudmark, but anyone else who is latter interested could use this for their own History if they'd like?) this creates religious unrest between odinists and Christrians. This Unrest latter involves Drenovia leading to a Odinits/Nordic-Drenovian alliance of sorts against the expansionist Christians. This can then be used as an explanation for Christianity's negative(?) association in both Nya Aland, and Drenovia if they are interested. As well as the Mytrdom of St. Peter and the creation of ES as a Christian stronghold in Albion? 

Spoiler: Proposed Concept of old Nordic Empire: • show



Blue: Proposed Territories of the Empire
Ice Blue: Drenovia in relation to the empire
   

16
International News Networks / Der Post - Sudmark News
« on: December 18, 2021, 01:39:40 AM »
Annual Pilgrimage to Depart the 18th

The 18th of December marks the beginning of an annual pilgrimage from Sudmark to the Ecclesiastical State. The Christian holiday of Christmas, or the Birth of Jesus of Nazareth, is not recognized as a national celebration within Sudmark as either a religious or secular holiday. Despite this the annual pilgrimage has become ingrained within communities of Christian Practitioners in Sudmark as both a spiritual and a cultural undertaking. The Pilgrimage itself can be dated back to the earliest settlements of Sudmark by Derusmian settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries in which faith is believed to have played a major role in the establishment and societies of said settlements. The new settlements, lacking the great cathedrals of the old country and often absent any major religious institution beyond a village chapel themselves, would look to the holy city of Celestis for inspiration and spiritual guidance given both to the ES closer distance and its prestigious status among the Celestian Catholic world. Thusly the faithful would band together and journey by sea from their settlements in Sudmark to the Ecclesiastical State each year nearing the 25th in celebration and piety. The earliest voyages due to limitations in nautical technology would initiate a month prior to the 25th however as developments in technological progression would reach Sudmark the time constraints for voyages would progressively lessen. Today the journey often lasts a little less than a week and can alternatively be bypassed via aviation means. The journey will be conducted via a cruise liner currently docked within Eilenburg from which it will traverse through the Sargon Bay and along the coast of South Ardia docking at the Ecclesiastical shore city of Miragliano.

The Defense Ministry has made an official announcement that this year the FNS Höffner, a corvette class, will accompany the Pilgrimage as Escort. Though today little more thana ceremonial gesture and part of Sudmark Naval Culture, historically it was necessary for the Pilgrimage to be escorted by naval vessels to deter pirates and hostile naval vessels. These escorts were first provided by the Faithful themselves with those who held Whaling and nautical professions offering up their vessels to protect the pilgrimages. When Sudmark officially became a colony of the Derusmian Empire, colonial naval ships would take up this endeavor. Since then, it has traditionally been customary for the Sudmarker Navy to accompany the voyage for 2/3rds of its trek from which the Sudmark Navy will ceremonially pass on the pilgrimage to ES own navy “escort” which will accompany the pilgrimage for the Remainder of its trek into ES territorial waters. It is said that this year’s voyage will be seen off by Premier herself, the first such appearance from a Head of State of Sudmark since 2014 and the Long Winter. 

OOC: Edited Duke to Premier

17
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Advent
« on: December 11, 2021, 09:37:22 AM »
OOC NOTE: The previous post has been edited to cut out a lot of stuff that is entirely irrelevant to, and only cluttered, this thread. If your interested, it can be found here as a vignette, but other wise has no connection this this thread.))


The Promenade Casino
An envelope would be left under Arhchie’s room door, waiting for him to read at his leisure. It would have no markings on the envelope itself, while nothing more than a small letter would be enclosed:   

Mr. Earle

It has come to our attention that your current business partners are experiencing an unfortunate number of delays and inability to meet your companies needs. I represent an interested party that like to assist your company in addressing this issue. Your business is highly appreciated here in Sudmark and we would like to ensure recent problems do not affect your long standing ventures here. Should you be interested in what my company has to offer come to the Stendal’s Café I’ll be there between 10 AM to 12 PM. Should you agree to discuss business with us, be sure to ask the clerk about the “Vinitsian Crostatas”.

Best  Regards

***

Bruan - The Promenade Casino, Bar and lounge.

When Bruan opened his eyes, he was greeted with the sight of an Elaborate pattern filling his vision. He wasn’t sure what he was looking at, but he supposed he’d woken up to worse. Now that he thought about it everything seemed off in a way. Behind him he felt a hard surface pushing up against his back, yet the world seemed sideways. Up was not where it was supposed to be, and he couldn’t even begin to comprehend where down was. In fact, he couldn’t feel the floor at all no matter how much he kicked. The worst of it was his head. Even the slightest shift in movement caused a searing pain causing him to let out a plethora of curses in response.   

“Just the man I was looking for…” A familiar voice seemingly said out of nowhere. That voice, it was familiar. Bruan had to think for a moment recalling where he heard it before. Once he’d gotten his barens a sudden pang of realization caused him to let out a few more cures. He knew that voice well enough.

“Figures…” was all Bruan managed to mumble. The voice alone was enough to sober up Bruan, enough to at least drag himself of the floor and find a stool to rest on leaning against the bar table. He then spoke again waving his hand as if to shoo off the newcomer.   
“I already told you Idette, were through. No leave me be, I’ve got to sober up before work. ”

“Oh Bruany, don’t be like that. Besides it’s been…what now six, seven years? When will you let it go.” Against his wishes, Idette had made her way closer towards Bruan now leaning against the table next to him. She was similar in age to Bruan, maybe a few years younger give or take. Either way time had certainly been more kind to her then himself. Just another reason her presence annoyed him. Let it go. The words echoed in Bruan’s mind conjuring a disapproving grunt in response.
 
“You can’t seriously tell me you’ve settled for dockhand work?” Idette continued, an accusatory voice elongating the word ‘seriosuly’ in a dramatic manner.

“Believe it or not, but you’ll find some people are fine with an honest living.”

“Oh?  We both know that Bruan, the real Braun, doesn’t believe that; and certainly he is not ‘Honest’.” She was right. As much as he hated to admit it She. Was Right.

“Besides you haven’t even heard my offer…”     

“Unless it’s about what we discussed last time, that’ll be a hard pass for me.” Bruan having convinced himself he was sober enough to be mobile was ready to take his leave managing to stumble his way towards the lobby entrance. And so he did. Without any interruption? Usually in these instances she’d try to sway him in a multitude of ways. Over embellishing her ‘offer’, trying to guilt trip him into accepting, even using more personal means. This time though? Nothing. She just remained silent, not having moved and inch from the bar table. Which could only mean…

“So I take it that you’ve reconsider, Bruany?”  A small grin tugged at the corner of Idette’s mouth, as Bruan hadn’t even realized he stopped just before the lobby entrance. Yochlan!* He thought to himself turning to face the women and shifting uncomfortably.

“If you’re screwing with me Idette…not even the Architect*…” 

“Wonderful! Now go and make yourself presentable and don’t dally, Ja? We need to be ready by nine.”  Idette satisfied with Bruan’s reluctant yet silent agreement, took her leave informing him of a room pre-prepared room to be used for cleaning and preparation.

When Bruan arrived down at the Casino’s lobby, he had found Idette awaiting in the lobby, dawning her ever signature tortoise shell sunglasses. She exchanged few words with him simply commenting that Bruan’s choice of attire was ‘Acceptable enough’ before leading him to entrance of the Casino Hotel. Bruan would find a luxury car, of Heyran origin if he had to guess, awaiting them, Chauffeur in tow.   

“I see even after all these years, humility has evaded you…” Bruan quipped.

“If you’ve got it, flaunt it. You know how it works, her in Brascroen.” That he did, and it cost him dearly.

“Where are we headed anyway? This gotta’ be something big if your putting this much effort into it…” Braun had broken the otherwise silence that that permeated a thick awkward haze in the vehicles back seat cabin.
   
“Stendal’s. There’s a high roller, foreigner, apparently his associates are none too pleased with the way their operation is being handled here… oh goodness.” Idette replied in a matter of fact tone, not once looking up from her phone, much to Braun’s annoyance, seeming to comment about something on the device after the fact.

Apparently, the Surak Volcano had become concerningly active in recent months and now scientists were warning it was becoming a worrying sign according to the news article Idette was reading.  That had made Bruan recall the previous nights event’s when Walls was talking about the heavy traffic, and the rumors of increased Federal activity around the Isles. Curious.   


18
Vignettes / Re: Accounts from Sudmark
« on: December 11, 2021, 09:27:14 AM »
((OOC NOTE: The following was originally posted in the RP Thread 'The Advent'. It has been moved here as a Vingette as almost all of it is entirely irrelevant and unneeded in that thread, only cluttering it up with useless information. It is now also entirely set in the past as opposed to being set in the contemporary.))

Spoiler: I may despise myself • show
An Ekruti Village, Ebreichlandung Archepelago

[center] Some time ago[/center]

The air was brisk, the wind fierce, and a chill that had encompassed much of the south. These were all tell-tale signs that end of the year was approaching and with it a new winter. Itigia did not mind so much in some ways she may have even admitted to having a fondness for the cold months once. Now though, things were different. She would be all alone this winter, and though many in the village would be more than welcoming to her it wouldn’t change the fact that she would be… alone. Her husband had since past succumbed to his addictive habit of smoking and while it was hard to overcome with at first, but she had always found comfort in her son and in turn comforted her husband’s child. For many years it was them against the world. But now? Now her son had grown into a man and while still young, he non the less was capable of looking after himself now and forging his own path in the Welt.

Like many Ekruti* youths Itigia’s son had loathed at the idea of staying in the village another winter and summer embellishing in the idea of leaving the isles and heading to the mainland. To see and experience an entirely foreign world and way of life with all the excitement only the youth seem capable of conjuring. So it was that through a heartfelt and emotional goodbye Itigia saw her only child leave the isles for the mainland, clinging on to the promise of regular phone calls and the occasional visit. Though it was not an affair of tragedy, in many ways it felt like one to Itigia for now she was all alone, and no one would be able to comfort her in the long nights like before.

It was perhaps because of this that Itigia had now found a companion in the Village’s elder woman Yurak. Taking time to make weekly visits to elder and always making sure to bring gifts. This time Itigia had gathered a dish she had prepared the night before, Auja. Something of a delegacy among the Ekruti made from local nuts, plants, and hunted game. Though mainlanders and foreigners tend to recognize it more as a porridge or meat stew. For shame, Itigia thought. From what she gathered porridge was deemed something of a poor man’s food on the mainland. Oh well more Auja for her. With the native dish she also managed to purchase pouched tea from one of the Gemischt* towns not too far from the village, supposedly it was a hot commodity on the mainland imported from a foreign country.

Such things were generally rare of among the Ekruti. Not that they were hostile to foreigners simply that the Ekruti way of life, the “old ways” as some would call it, was more focused on living off the land making the concept of such “convince items” something of an exotic and alien concept. It had also been one of the reasons Itigia’s son had longed for the mainland. The curiosity of youth and the settled society’s almost mystical status to the sheltered Ekruti youths something that could not be dissuaded. 

Following a brief and chilled trek to Yurak’s dwelling, with both tea and dish in tow, Itigia was greeted by elder women a warm and welcoming smile spreading across her wrinkled aged face at the sight of her weekly visitor.   

“Itigia, please come in! Mmmm… is that the scent of Auja I smell?”

“Oh, I couldn’t help myself. When we got talking about it last time I remember how fondly my son enjoyed it. I’m just glad I have a reason to cook it again. Oh, and I also brought you some tea!”

Once Itigia got settled and Yurak prepared a fresh brew with her younger friend’s gift, the two would talk and laugh with each other for hours. Exchanging stories of their youths and lamenting about times past. It wasn’t until the topic of dreams came up that the mood seemingly changed. Itigia mentioned how she’d had trouble falling asleep now that she was all alone while Yurak listened and warmly emphasized with her younger friend. It was then Yurak’s turn to discuss what had been bothering her. Her own dreams as of recent, a jumbled mixture of scenes that made no sense to her, yet she insisted were both important and connected.

“It’s always the same thing over and over; First, a mist that spreads around making people sick and saddened. Second, a storm erupts over the sea and never seems to stop. Finally, I’m standing upon the shore and out in the ocean I see what looks like an island gradually drifting away until a fog makes it unable to see. I don’t know what it could mean, but I feel it is important.”       

The Elderldy has always been looked up to as advisors in many facets of life. Be it spiritual, physical, or psychological and in turn the Ekruti respected them upmost. Even the most difficult of the elderly were cared for, though begrudgingly. Yurak was, fortunately, not such a person. While the years may have been harsh on her she had not allowed this to affect her, simply accepting it as a fact of life. The Ekruti had a saying “Cherish youth, but trust in age” and many among the village would agree Yurak was a living embodiment of this age-old wisdom. So these dreams she was talking about were certainly interesting. The two women would continue to discuss the dreams wondering as to what they could be. A sign perhaps?     

A mist of sickness and sorrow.
An endless storm over the sea.
Islands drifting away.

What could it mean?

(OOC:)
*Ekruti- the native people of Sudmark predating Derusmic presences. They are believed to have once dominated all of Sudmark but have since been delegated to small pockets of nomadic groups across the Federation.

*Gemischt- Literally meaning, Mixed, this term has been adopted as an official ethnic label by the Federation to denote those of both Derusmic and Ekruti origin. Today the Gemischt are the dominant ethnic group of the country making up and estimated 70-90% of the total population.
[hr]


Brascroen-Mainland Sudmark, Royal Motorcade

Alfried Strossner, of the Royal House of Strossner, was the brother of the current King of Sudmark and thusly a Prince of House Strossner. Alfried himself had no children nor was he married and seeing as how his brother had two heirs, he saw no real reason to have children. In a way his niece and nephew, through their very births, was something of a relief to Alfired because it meant that his brother’s line was secure. More importantly it meant his own importance dwindled and now instead of being his brother’s right hand and the proverbial future of the country Aflried could enjoy being relatively well… irrelevant. With the exception of the occasional duty of being present at some event or another in absence of his brother, Alfried was now free. Free from the burden of royal duties, free from the constant boredom of politics that was required of the crown, and free from his brother’s incessant nagging about maintaining the image of the crown. Even the media had changed their focus from Alfried two his niece and nephew the two darlings of Sudmark.

Of course, the question then became, what was a Prince of House Strossner, with all that the position entailed, supposed to do? He could, act as a diplomatic agent on behalf of the Federation and the crown itself but that seemed awfully tiresome besides the media and electorate council seemed awfully pleased with his generosity of allowing that privilege to the seasoned diplomats who clearly had more experience and fresh-faced junior diplomats who needed to make a name for themselves. In the end Alfried took it upon himself to observe the progress being made in the Federations expansion into the Ebreichlandung Archepelago. After all as proper members of the Federation surely the isles deserved all the benefits that came with being apart of this great country and Alfired would be more than pleased to look after projects needed to modernize the isles. Of course, Brascroen as the gem of the south, and the Federations second largest economic center, also need attention too and Alfried was more than willing to give it all the attention it needed. Especially the booming casino industry, and in particular the adult clubs in said casinos.


There were occasions when Alfried's otherwise, important administrative duties, need to take a back seat much to his own regret but duty would occasionally call for the Prince, and in this particular instance he couldn’t refuse when that duty was specifically family related. Today family meant looking after his niece and nephew, and while he adored his brother’s children as any good uncle should, Alfried was not particularly pleased when he was interrupted from an important “audition” with one of the casinos showgirls. Even more tiresome was that it was the specifically His Majesty who interrupted him via a phone call; but who was a prince to deny the king?

So here he was spending a good half of his day in an escort car first accompanied by his young eccentric nephew who lambasted him with praise about some foreigner and how “totally awesome”, “unmatched” and “best of the best” of a rugby player he was. Some Morelander by the name of McCalister? Or was it MacAllister? The name escaped him. But his nephews constant praise of the man seemingly never did, and while Alfried could appreciate his nephew’s passion for the sport he would be lying if he didn’t find his nephew’s newfound obsession a bit tiring. Still he smiled and tried to best he could to follow the boy’s conversation and endure video after video of “Best Tries” compilations. Though to little avail.

Alfried didn’t know much of anything about rugby after all. Fortunately, he would find some respite in his niece. The focus of this venture in the first place. Supposedly his niece, Odelia, had been studying abroad via some sort of exchange program -the Network of Crowns- if he remembered correctly and so he was to accompany his nephew to the International Airport where they would then pick up Odelia before taking the journey back to Baden, the Federation Capitol. Why the King himself, or even the Queen for that matter, could not do this themselves escaped him. Still, he found Odelia recounting her adventures abroad far easier to follow than his nephew's Rugby obsession. Even more so that Odelia was closer in age to himself and thusly more capable of “adult” conversation so to say. Much to the annoyance of their young companion.

The First leg of the journey was to stop at the families holding in Brascroen proper where they would spend the night before departing for the capital the following day. Thus far the trip had gone smoothly however now it seemed there was some sort of stall. Curious the Prince glanced out the window. His nephew seemingly had the same idea what he said next would conjure a sudden realization in Alfried the likes he’d never felt before.

“Onkel, is it usually this foggy in Brascroen?” His naïve, innocent, young voice asked with genuine curiosity. Then many things happened at once.

[hr]

[center] Earlier That Day [/center]

“Are we really about to do this? Like, really?”

“Don’t you puss out on me! Were too deep in to bail now.”

“I Know, I Know. It’s just…high treason? Of this caliber? Not exactly what I had in mind.”

“I hear you, but hey if everything goes according to plan… well let’s just stay focused. Ja?”

The two had been waiting here nearly all morning. Two nearly empty cups of tea sitting idly in the middle terminals cup holsters were indicative of the fact. They were not the only ones either. Indeed, any one observant enough would notice the peculiarity of various cars having been parked at the curbside around the plaza. Even more so that these cars hadn’t moved since 6 A.M. Still most would not notice this strange scene as the Plaza would slowly become more and more crowded until around midday when the area would be packed.

The reason was the same as always. Demonstrations and protests. Against the Federal Government and its supposed overreach, the economic situation around the country which seemed only to worsen, accusations of abuse and corruption by the authorities many claimed but had no proof of, hell even the damn weather was probably being protested. It seemed like anything, and everything was fair game to the disgruntled masses. While it was a mess for local authorities who now called in Federal authorities for back up as the masses became more unruly with each passing day, their misery was opportunity for the inconspicuous cohort of cars and their two per vehicle teams.

Today was even more hectic than usual though, news of the Royals motorcade planning to stroll through the city had attracted even more visitors to the plaza and in turn more Federal Authorities. It was the perfect brew of chaos and all it needed was a spark. That is precisely what the two individuals in this care had been waiting for. Why they had suffered mindless waiting of hour upon hour. A spark. The handheld transceiver carried by one of the individuals crackled to life brining the mind-numbing waiting to an end finally.     
         
“Target spotted, approaching the plaza now”

“Copy, all teams are green. Wait for the signal and strike. Good hunting and remember, Freiheit.”

With that a series of events would take motion unnoticed by the masses and the distracted authorities. The first would be a coordinated group of individuals making their way through the crowds each carrying a backpack and wearing a filtration mask. Meanwhile chaos would erupt as excited tourist and bystander struggled with protester and demonstrator alike each to get a glimpse at the royal motorcade. In the chaos fights would seemingly break out among the crowd as the masses in realizing their conflicting reasons to be there bickered amongst each other. Now was the time they were wating for. A few moments passed and the chaos grew while the Authorities forming parallel lines struggled to both keep the peace and the masses from breaking their lines.

“Down with the Feds! End Federal Tyranny!” Someone shouted, and this quickly became a rallying cry as seemingly dozens of voices echoed the words causing confusion amongst both the masses and the authorities. Next an object was thrown at the police lines, one single glossy object twirled unpredictably towards an unsuspecting line of police and before they could even react, even notice the object erupted into flames engulfing an unlucky few in its fiery embrace. Then came the screams as panic infested the masses. Lastly backpacks were placed on the ground and all at once a gas would slowly seep out soon engulfing the area leading to a cacophony of screams and uncontrollable coughing.

"Their Gassing us!” And with that, the spark was lit. All hell broke loose. Just on cue the alarms of security vehicles blared loudly. The signal.

[Center] The Present [/center] 
 
The Motorcade swiftly moved into action breaking ceremonial formation and allowing the Royal’s vehicles to slip through the chaos accompanied by only two escorts. Their drivers professionally steered throughout the crowded streets carful not hit anyone while also maintaining their speed so as to escape. For a brief moment they looked to be clear of the chaos and Prince Alfried gasped in relief. Instinctively he had pulled his nephew and down below the window while motioning for his niece to do the same. This was not happening he screamed to himself in his mind.

“Are we in the clear?!” He practically screamed at the driver unable to control himself. Garnering an ever so slightly annoyed glance by the driver

“Please stay calm and keep down your Highnesses.”  Was all the driver responded with. Meanwhile Alfried frantically looked out the window trying to make sense of the situation but in his own panic barley making sense of where they were at or what was even going on; all the while trying and failing to reassure his confused niece and nephew. They too were now growing more panicked by the minute only exacerbated by their uncle’s own panic.  In an attempt to focus on something anything Alfried strained to hear what the driver and his partner were saying only able to make out: “two, shit no three,” Two! Three?! Two three what?! What was going on, why did their security detail seem puzzled. Where were the other vehicles of the Motorcade. What was going on? These questions and more raced through his mind and as they did Aflried only grew more and more panicked. Subconsciously he began muttering to himself over and over again like a madman, “Can’t be happening, no, no, it can’t! Not happening” The last thing he saw was his nephew and niece bewildered hugging each other and seemingly pushing themselves away from him.

“Can’t be. No, not happening!” A sudden and violent vibration erupted throughout the car as if they had crashed, “cant be…” Then Everything went black.

 Odelia, Brascroen   
Everything was blurry. That’s the only way she could describe it. What is that sound? Its familiar...

“O…del…a…Od…lia” It sounds like...

“deli…Od…ia…ODELIA!”

“Wha..” Flying. Car. Family. City. Family. That’s right she was returning home and meeting her..

“Brother...” Brother. Fog. Brother. Panic. Brother. Crash. It all came rushing back to her now ever agonizing second of it. The crash. The panic. The last thing she remembered was holding her younger brother, tightly, trying to protect him if nothing else, and then… the crash.

"Crash...” Now having regained her senses, her vision clear as crystal now, Odelia frantically looked around for her brother. Instead, what greeted her was a nearly destroyed car the roof having caved in and just barley stopping enough to not have crushed her. As she looked around more she felt her hand drenched in something wet. Something sticky. She wanted nothing more than to ignore the sensation, but she knew she couldn’t. Wide eyed she glanced down only to see her hand surrounded by a pool of crimson liquid. She screamed recoiling her hand. Fortunately, it wasn’t her own, but if not hers...

“BRUNO!” She shrieked over and over uncontrollably, frantically looking all round her for any signs of her brother.   

“Odelia!” To her utter relief she heard her brother call out to her, but something was wrong it sounded distant, but she heard something else footsteps and grunts. Then a voice unfamiliar.

“Oy shut him up already and help me, Ja?! The girl survived too…” Odelia was met with a masked individual who for a brief moment just stared at her his face hidden behind the mask.

“Hello, princess. I see you aren’t dead! That’s good. Shame about your uncle though... Ah well that’s life I suppose. Can't save them all right?!” The figure said jovially as if talking to a long-missed friend.       

[center] *** [/center]

And so it was, a second attack would be carried out against the Strossner family hundreds of miles away from Baden and the first. An act that would go unnoticed. Overshadowed by the chaos that now engulfed Brascroen and its subsequent events. A King and his wife are dead, his heirs missing. A spark is lit.


19
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Advent
« on: December 09, 2021, 12:16:37 PM »
Brascroen-Mainland Sudmark, Private Docks

Evening

“What the bloody hell do you mean one more?!” An irritated and gruff male voice erupted in annoyance causing his younger co-worker to jump at the unexpected outburst.

“Hey don’t get mad at me! I’m just telling you what the boss told me.” The younger man replied throwing his hands in the air.

The private docking business was one of Brascroen’s more well-known industries and while it was true that it was nowhere near as profitable as the Casinos downtown, the plethora of docking enterprises around the cities shores offered a niche service that served both foreigner and Sudmarker alike. These private docks also served as something of an express shipping service for those who wanted to skip the headache and slower process that was the federally owned dockyard or had particular requirements and needs when it came to processing. The downside of course was that unlike the Federal Dockyard the private docks were not a 24-hour service, more often than not required an ‘extra handling fee’ that always seemed to disappear upon payment, and depending on the specific business could not cater to every type of ship. Unfortunately for the workers of this particular dock that last part was not a problem.

“Hey, why don’t you go on ahead. Me and Walls can handle this, doesn’t look like a big load anyway.” A calmer and more collected voice offered to the youngest of the three workers reassuring the youth with a friendly smile.

“Well, what the hell was that, Bruan? Do you not feel how cold it is out here?! It would have gone a lot quicker if the kid was with us.”  Walls (short for Waldbert) huffed in disapproval while shivering.

“Because Walls, unlike you and I the kid is going to school which means he can actually make something of himself. Instead of becoming some bitter balding middle-aged dockworker…” Bruan replied with a taunting grin at his

“Well, when you put it like that. Who am I to get in the way of the education of our youths…” Walls shot back, mockingly.

It was only partly true and both of them knew it. The lad was still innocent and naïve about the way the city worked especially since he was one of those islanders. Ekarati was it? In a way the two older dock workers felt responsible for him and, at least in Braun's case, wanted to protect him from the corruption that permeated throughout the city. Not that it wouldn’t find him sooner or later. Still, this was their own little way of looking after him. Besides both of them were in this business long enough to know that these last-minute dockings never came from a place of professionalism and certainly not from the kindness of management.

“What’s with this traffic anyway? The guys from Heinz dock keep getting them too.” Walls asked curiously. It was a rather unusual phenomenon and while the occasional last minute illicit shipment was to be expected, it wasn’t just criminal elements that kept business going. There was some sort of surge in random goods that kept many of the private docks busy on top of the Federal shipping yard. Hell, sometimes the orders were even from the Feds themselves.

“Who knows. Supposedly the Feds have been doing heavy construction on the isles, got a military base there or something.”  Bruan mused ever watchful as the incoming shipment gradually made its way to the dock.

“Course it’s the damn Feds. Is nowhere safe from the government. Don’t they even realize practically all the protests downtown are because of their overreach?”

“Walls, mate, I never realized you were so political. You should run for electorate! Show the feds what’s what.” Braun jokingly replied inciting an amused grunt from his co-worker.

Now that he mentioned it though Bruan had recalled downtown being host to quite a lot of activism these days. Not that he payed it much mind. As far as he was concerned politics was just pointless bickering. Finally, the last-minute shipment made its way to the dock and following a few exchanged words with the crew the two dock workers began processing. Braun noted that this particular shipment included a variety of artworks. Whatever, he though to himself and once their work was done Bruan bid Walls a goodnight before making his way to the Casinos. After all, there were perks to an extended shift especially if said shift involved breaking a law or two. 









20
Non Fiction / Ardian Continental Conflict 1914-1918: A summary
« on: November 25, 2021, 07:30:09 AM »

Ardian Continental Conflict 1914-1918: A summary

By Manius Brusco
In association with the 14-45 Historical Society, Vrusa Institute & International Partners


The most widely known and perhaps impactful of the Waring Era conflicts, is that of the Ardian Continental Conflict lasting from roughly 1914 to 1945. Though it should be noted, that while the Ardian Continental Conflict is recognized as lasting for the duration of the Era fighting between the belligerents did not last the entire consecutive three decades of the Era. The belligerents of this war are often categorized as Pro-Ardia or Anti-Ardia in nature, though allegiances have been recorded to change due to events both as a result of and independent of the conflicts greater consequences. Chronologically the Ardian Continental Conflict can be divided into two segments, these being the 1914-1918 period and the 1932-1945 periods. This Conflict would officially end in 1945 with peace negotiations between the Ardian Coalition and Allied Powers following the usage of nuclear weapons by the Achkaerinese Empire against the Ardian Empire. The following exposé will briefly cover the First phase of the Ardian Continental War, commonly known as the First Ardian war or First World War, lasting form the years of 1914 to 1918 CE.

NOTE: Due to the chaotic nature of this period in Mundus’ history and the often scarce or, as of this writing, uncovered information this exposé will very briefly summarize the conflict with available information as of this time. It should be understood that while this work is an attempt to give structure and organization of the events, there may be pieces regarding unmentioned involvement or little coverage of countries or factions missing from this work. The 14-45 Historical society in association with our partners are currently working to uncover more information about the various conflicts of the time period. As such, subsequent exposes may be released to cover topics not mentioned in this work.   

Background
Prior to the outbreak of the war in 1914 the Ardian Empire had become a Regional Power, influential through out the Cross Straits, Daunutal, and Kyne maritime regions as well as enjoying the status of the preeminent power within the Ardian Peninsula. The Empire also held overseas territories such as that of Djabidjan and benefiting from positive relationships with the Kingdom of Rhand, the restored Grimaldi Dyansty of the Heyran Kingdom and the Kingdom of Samantra. The Ardian Empire was also politically active in the region having hosted the exiled Tytorian Royal family from 1873 to 1909, and holding territory in what is now western Daito.  Despite this, by the late 19th century the Ardian Empire was growing stagnate with numerous historical conflicts with its neighbors and domestic troubles causing a gradual weakening of the Empires once believed undefeatable hegemony.       

It is still unclear what exactly started the first period of the Continental war though it has been speculated that antagonization by the Empire against its neighbors, be it intentionally or indirectly, is a pivotal reason as to the cause. The Empire’s eastern territories of what is now Nueva Ardia has been noted to be a point of contention with its neighbor the Toshikawa Shogunate itself a notable power within the Peninsula boasting a powerful military and warrior culture. Meanwhile in the north the Empire of Daito a notable rival of Ardia, and one which lost territory to the Ardians in a previous conflict, would seek to reclaim its territories west of the Idai Mountains under the Reign of the Keiyo Emperor, lastly the overseas territory of Gowu, of Holy Empire of Achkaerin would prove to be a point of contention between the weakening Southern Empire and the growing Northern Empire.

Rokkenjiman Political Crisis
One year prior to the outbreak of the Greater Conflict, a political crisis would strike Rokknejima (then known as The Royal Provinces of Rokkenjima) in which financial polices enacted by Queen Rachel would prove unpopular and used as a political tool by Radical Republican elements against the Rokkenjiman Crown. Tensions within the country would boil over into an all-out civil war in pitting Royalist forces against Revel Republican Forces. The Defections of General Allen Smith and Admiral Pearson from the Royalist forces to the Republicans would come to play a pivotal role in the countries conflict securing a Republican Victory in 1915 and allowing the formation of the Federal Republic of Rokkenjima. Though it is speculated that various countries may have involved themselves, indirectly, in the Rokkenjiman civil-war for various reasons the conflict would be notable in the context of the region as a whole by changing the political landscape of the region and threatening maritime trade & security within the Ardian Gulf (now the Rokkenjiman Sea) and Daunutal Sea. Additionally the victory of the Republicans would see the formation of the First Republican state in the Region by popular revolt.


Belligerents & Theatres of War
The culmination of the geopolitical fallout of the Rokkenjiman civil-war and the grievances of the Ardian Empire with its neighbors is generally regarded as the cause of the Ardian Continental War, and the first phase of 1914-1918. This phase of the war can be divided into four theatres of war these being the Peninsula Theatre, the Daito Theatre, the Kyne Theatre and the Northern Ocean Theatre. While the respective alliances of the war are generally categorized into The Ardian Coalition(AC), and The Allied Powers(AP). Respectively, the following countries are recorded as being apart of each alliance; Ardian Empire (AC), Nueva Ardia (AC), Kingdom of Tytor (AC), Kingdom of Heyra-Bellefaye (AC), Kingdom of Samntra (AC) Emirate of Royal Seleucid (AC)*, Empire of Achkaerin(AP), Empire of Daito (AP), Toshikawa Shogunate (AP), and Cassiopeia (AP)*.

In the Daito Theatre of War The Keiyo Emperor (personal name Shigenori) would oversee his forces against the Ardian Occupation Force stationed in the regions west of the Idai Mountains. (A personal account has been submitted to The 14-45 Historical Agency recounting the story of Daitojin soldier Haruto Kimura which can be found here). In the Peninsula Theatre the Toshikawan Army and Ardian Army would find themselves in a fierce stalemate along the Nuvea Ardian-Toshikawa border. This front alone is speculated to be one of the most violent and brutal owning to accounts of prolonged trench warfare that would last throughout the entirety of the conflict even into the second phase lasting until 1945. The peninsula theatre is said to have the most belligerents present in land warfare with the AC receiving assistance from the Kingdom of Tytor, the Empire itself and Nueva Ardian Auxiliaries, among others, while the Toshikawan army formed the backbone of AP forces, supported by Achkaerenese forces via Gowu. Though fighting in the Peninsula theatre was relatively contained to the Nueva Ardian-Toshikawa land border, there have been some accounts of naval engagements in and around the waters surrounding the peninsula.

The Kyne Theatre and North Ocean Theatre’s are primarily understood to be naval centric in fighting with the AC forces comprised of the Samantran navy overseen by King Vladislav Godunov, the Heyra-Bellefaye navy overseen by King Charles VII, and the Ardian Navy. In contrast the AP Naval forces were primarily formed from Achkaerenese Navy led by Empire Henry Azurewind in the Northern Ocean, while the Daitojin Navy is said to have assisted in the Kyne Sea. Additionally, the Emirate of Royal Seleucid is known to have supported the Ardian Empire in Naval engagements primarily in securing sea lanes and access between the Kremeon and Kyne seas while securing the Matilda channel and overseeing their colonies in what is now the Andean Peninsula.

(*Though Casseopiea and the Emirate are known to have been associated with the AP and AC, respectively, little information is known about the two countries contribution or overall relationship with their alliances as of this writing.) 

Tytorian Withdrawl
The end of the first period of the Ardian Continental Conflict (1914-1918) is generally marked with the gradual decline of the AC’s power capabilities. The first of these events, and perhaps the most impactful, is that of Tytorian withdraw from the conflict in 1917 due to political Turmoil and a Revolution. Prior to the conflict the policies of King Richard III would include the formation of a strong alliance between the Kingdom and the Ardian Empire. This alliance would come into play with Tytor providing much needed support for Ardian operations around the Cross Straits region and within the Peninsula theatre. Following the relative stalemate of the AC and AP along the Nueva Ardian-Toshikawa front, having devolved to trench warfare in all but name, and its heavy casualty rate for both sides would prove to be widely unpopular both among the general populace and the higher circles of Tytorian military leadership in disagreement with King Richard III’s policies and continued support for the Tyto-Ardian alliance.

Thusly in 1917 members of the Tytorian Military Leadership would enact a discreet coup against King Richard III forcing him to abdicate in which his son, King Christian II, would succeed him. This change in leadership would effectively end the Tyto-Ardian alliance with King Christian II, supposedly pressured by military Elements, officially withdrawing Tytor from the conflict. Five years later Chrstian II would also be the victim of a Coup led by Tytorian general Josiah Granger and the formation of the Second Federal Republic. The Withdraw of Tytor and the support it provided for Ardian Forces would increase pressure on the Empire to handle the Toshikawa front alone causing a further drain on resources, manpower, and morale.

Victory in Daito
The second event that would promulgate the end of the first period, would be the success of Daitojin and allied forces against the Ardian Coalition forces in the Daito Theatre. By 1917 AC and AP forces within Daito had become deadlocked in a stalemate similar to that of the Toshikawa-Nueva Ardian Front. The Central piece of this stalemate was the city of Saito a hotly contested economic and logistical center previously captured by Ardian forces in the First Battle of Saito of 1916.

A grave consequence of the Withdraw of Tytor from the conflict would see Ardian forces stretched increasingly thin with soldiers and equipment often exchanged between the Peninsula and Daito Theatres, while increased pressure to maintain Naval capabilities in the Kyne to secure logistical and deployment routes further drained resources. In 1917 Daiotjin forces led by Marshal (Gensui-Rikugun-Taishō in the native Daito language) Daisaku Higasayama would lay Siege on the city of Saito initiating the Second Battle of Saito. The longest battle of the Daito Theatre it would be fought from 1917 until 1918 when Daito Forces would overwhelm the Ardians and retake the city. A victory for the Daito and AP forces the battle would prove to be decisive in the Daito theatre.

Due to the high concentration of AC forces and equipment dedicated to the cities defense, its fall to Daito forces would result in the Ardians incapable of recovering or mounting an effective resistance. In a matter of months, the remaining territories of the Sagami Region under Ardian control would capitulate. Following an Armistice between Daito and the Military Leaders of Ardian Coalition the Daito Theatre would officially end in 1918 with a Daito/AP victory. Despite their victory and the full withdrawal of Ardian forces out of Diato, it is recorded that various regions would attempt to secure independence from Daito in the power vacuum left by the Ardians and the war weary Daitojin forces, leading to a continuation of fighting for two more years in what is called by some as the “Western Rebellions”. Though it has been alleged that the Ardian Empire or its allies played a role in these rebellions, these claims cannot be confirmed and have been disregarded as purely speculation derived from anti-Ardian Sentiment.

Conclusion
These two events are considered key elements in the ending of the first Period of the Ardian Continental Conflict. Though it has been recorded  that fighting would continue following the year of 1918, often in the form of sporadic naval skirmishes and border brawls along the Nueva Ardian-Toshikawa front, it is generally agreed upon by scholars that the official end of this first period of conflict, sometimes called World War I, the First Great War, or the First Ardian War, is dated as 1918 through a series of Armastice and Ceasefire Treaties between AC Forces and AP Forces. Though the fighting may have ended the fallout of the 1914-1918 period would see a politically turbulent and tense atmosphere In Mundus. 

Despite outright fighting between Ardia and the AP ending during this period and not resuming until 1935, it is recorded that other conflicts would erupt or continue, sometimes involving belligerents of the two Alliances, despite the ending of the first period of Ardian Continental Conflict. Due to the chaotic nature of this period in history, records of these subsequent conflicts are scarce or not yet uncovered. The 14-45 historical society, in association with the Vrusa Institute and International partners will continue to search for more information on these subsequent conflicts. This ends this exposé covering the Ardian Continental Conflict of 1914-1918.

21
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: October 17, 2021, 01:13:38 AM »
Can you remove Sudmark, please?

22
OOC Socialisation / Re: Leave of Absence Topic
« on: October 01, 2021, 05:10:10 AM »
Ill need to be away for a while

23
Diplomacy and Events / The Advent
« on: September 29, 2021, 08:57:17 AM »
The Advent
A character Roleplay

The City of Brascroen Is the second most populace within Sudmark hosting an estimated populace of around 4.6 million inhabitants.  Often called the sunless Den of Vices given its extreme southern location, the city has made itself internationally known for its plethora of casinos, adult clubs, and other points of peculiar flavor. Straddling the outskirts of the inner steppe and bordering the Antalin to the south. Brascroen shines like a gleaming gem amidst the hazy fog of the sea and the scrub of the land. Its bright neon lights inviting all who wish to indulge themselves in their most hedonistic desires. Even the local government, though just barely tolerating the city has not attempted to crack down on the rampant black market that permeates throughout the city’s various alleyways and privatized docks, for fear of driving the prosperity Brascroen brings to the country as a whole. Indeed, among its many patrons one can often find disillusioned Coast and National Guard who have taken to the city to relieve themselves of their military duties, unsavory figures from all walks of life making a living through dishonest and often illegal means, and even the naive commoner who thought to take a chance at making it big through the city’s many opportunistic avenues.  It’s even said high profile officials from other countries the Welt over hold influence in the higher echelons of the city’s social networks. Of course, those are simply rumors; any scandal that may arise from the city involving a foreign official or two entirely a matter of coincidence as the Sudmark Government will be more than ready to reassure you. Besides either from disinterest or fear of jeopardizing diplomatic ties, the Sudmark government has more often than not refused to pursue such claims turning a blind eye to the cities less than savory side.

It is not just Vice and pleasure the city provides though. It may surprise many to learn Brascroen originated as a research outpost meant to study the vast natural phenomena of the Antalin. Now the Ehrentraud Institute of Research and Study, serves as the bastion of the more erudite inclined providing a refuge for those who come to learn and feast on knowledge rather than primal urges. It is within the outskirts of Brascroen this fountain of knowledge and study lies away from the undesirable den of sin and its less desirable patrons. The Ehrentraud Institute has also been known to act as a waypoint between the Hygelac research facilities and the rest of mundus often acting as a staging ground for new arrivals to prepare themselves before journeying to the frozen continent as well as hosting returning researchers and staff for recovery before they depart to their own home countries. In this regard the Ehrentruad Institute is as much a Sudmark facility as it is an international one. It is rumored by the city folk that deep beneath the facility proper lies an undisclosed vault. Of which the exact location is known only to a few select individuals within the Sudmark government and other foreign entities. In this vault lies the darkest of secrets revealed from the frozen continent. Some say alien lifeforms that have been recovered beneath the frozen surface, others once previously extinct animals that have somehow managed to survive in the deepest reaches of Hygelac. Still some suggest the facility holds numerous samples of diseases long believed to be cured, others unknown to the common man. Whether any of these accusations are true is known only to the staff and the select few who deal with the facility, that is assuming the vault exists at all of course.   

A setting of two worlds, one of pleasure and primal urges, the other of vigorous study and ever uncovering mysteries. This is the City of Brascroen, the gem of the south, the last bastion of civilization before the frigid sea of the Antalin, a gateway to the even more seemingly inhospitable yet mystifying polar continent.  It is here in this den of vice and pleasure, of knowledge and discovery that you find yourself. Perhaps your path takes you to the penthouse of a high influential gathering vying for more power and prestige among the upper echelons of high society. Or maybe you’ve ventured here to this hidden corner of the Welt, with nothing more than the clothes on your back, desperate to strike it big with one of the numerous criminal factions that infest the back alleys of the city. Maybe your presence is of a more official nature; seeking information only obtainable through the calculated and unseen eyes of an intelligence agent every wary to avoid detection from the Sudmark government, perhaps you have taken up Residence in the Ehrentraud Institute of Research and Study preparing for a voyage to the southern continent or uncovering the mysteries and secrets of those who dared to take the journey. Maybe you’re none of these. You may just be one of countless others who seek to take a relieve yourself from the weariness of life and partake in the rush of the gamble in the casinos and clubs. In the end your business is yours alone yet all of you through fate may be brought together with one goal in mind.

Escape.


OOC: Welcome! In this roleplay you will partake in the role of a character or characters from your own nation who resides in the southernmost Sudmark city of Brascroen. The city itself is a typical metropolitan city that is renowned for its gambling industry and its culture of tolerance for prospective patrons. Due to this it is far more cosmopolitan than the rest Sudmark. The city itself has no fixed layout so feel free to describe/add to it in whatever way suits your narrative needs. The only thing of note is that Sudmark is a Germanic inspired country and as such most residents will have names reflecting that, though its not required. Besides its gambling, the city hosts a research facility known as the Ehrentraud Institute of Research and Study (EIRS) which serves as an international auxiliary research station primarily to service and cooperate with the various research groups and missions into the polar continent of Hygelac. 

Your character can be of whatever caliber you wish, it is preferable that they are not your country’s leader or any other character of immediate importance of a similar vein though that won’t be denied should you choose. Otherwise, all other characters are welcome including intelligence agents and military personal. The RP will take place just prior and during a political and domestic crisis within the country of Sudmark in which your character(s) will inevitable be trapped within the city due to circumstances that will be revealed latter. Your recommended goal is to escape the city, though whether you choose to do so or not is entirely up to you. Perhaps leaving is simply not an option for you and you would rather whether the crisis. Perhaps you will work with the local authority to resolve the crisis. Or perhaps you simply seek to profit from the chaos. The choice is yours.

The RP will have a lightly linier story to it, in the form of events outside the city and occurring through Sudmark as a whole and that the central focus will be the city of Brascroen itself and the events that occur there; while your character is free to engage in whatever path/decision they choose in the city itself. In time the RP may open up to the rest of the country. This will be my first OP driven RP so I apologize in advance if it turns out chaotic/bad/not to your liking.

There is no need for a Character sign up, you can just jump right in.   

24
International News Networks / BLICK - Regional Magazine
« on: September 27, 2021, 03:44:31 AM »

Gypsies of the Alucard

Children of the Blue
Gypsies of the Alcuard, Nomads of the Sea, Children of the Blue, these titles and many more are the names used to describe the exotic and often unnoticed people who inhabit the waters of the Alucard Ocean and its various islands. Known internationally simply as “Water Nomads” the group has become more widely known in recent years during their official “Declaration of Sovereignty” in early 2019. Though the Water nomads refer to themselves as simply “Sea Nomads”, ethnographers have come to classify the various tribal groups that compose the Nomads under the ethnic-cultural title of Humsoo.

The Humsoo live an unorthodox lifestyle in relation to the rest of the Welt, even by Nomadic standards. Opposed to residing on land the Humsoo spend the majority of their lives on handcrafted ships traveling by boat across the Alucard, occasionally making landfall on national coasts or in self built stilt dwellings. It is in these locations the Humsoo will temporarily rest exchanging greetings with fellow tribes, trading for essentials, and pawning off their own goods. Perhaps the most perplexing of the Humsoo is their economic culture. Opposed to any fixed currency as adopted by the majority of the Welt and its countries, even amongst land-dwelling nomadic peoples, the Humsoo exchange commerce entirely through bartering. In this way they are considered economically independent from any country or their currency. As one might expect the Humsoo make most of their living through aquaculture and artesian crafts. One method of their fishing practices, called “cyanide fishing” by those who study the Humsoo, involves divers spraying liquid cyanide near coral reefs as a means to drive out fish from hiding. This then causes fish to expose themselves to the divers who collect the fish and then sell them off. Though it is unclear whether all tribes or certain tribes use this particular method, it has earned the ire of many Countries who hold territories near and in the Alcuarad region.   

“Our faith teaches us that water is the source of all life and that the earth that reaches forth from its life giving waves is evil. For as long as anyone recalls we have therefore living on our boats travelling the relative safety of the Alucard…”
 
~ High Chief, Vouto Rar – Opening statement in the Declaration of Sovereignty

The Humsoo are a vast collection of peoples divided among numerous tribes. Though they may each differ in tribal costumes, one thing that ties the various groups together is their faith. Though itself subject to deviations among the tribes all tribes follow a generalised theology. With information collected from those who study the Water Nomads, and the scarce few accounts by Humsoo laymen themselves, a basic understanding of the religious practice has formed. The Humsoo believe the origin of the Welt is that of an endless ocean presided over by the deity known as Laimpei. Laimpei is a life deity accredited for the creation of the various form of aquatic-life and lesser spirits that serve them. It is also assumed by theologists, that Laimpei is the “giver of life” as the Humsoo attribute water with life and thus consider it a holy entity. In contrast a deity called Gothass is accredited with evil and, in Humsoo theology, said to have forced rock above the oceans in a means to drown out the waters of life with land, with an intent to ultimately destroy all the oceans and replace it with land. In this regard the Humsoo will avoid setting foot on land above sea level associating it with Gothass, evil, and as tainted territory. However as this land ultimately originates from below the oceans, the Humsoo believe that when raised it brought the gifts of the ocean with it and thus, though hesitant, will not shy away from collecting resources from lands. Prior to stepping foot on land, the Humsoo will engage in ornate rituals calling upon Laimpei to protect them from Gotthas and the evil spirits that dwell on land. The Humsoo will also avoid sleeping on land as it is believed that the evil spirits will take their resting bodies to Gothass.

The Humsoo believe their deity, Laimpei, dwells deep in the ocean’s depths within a submerged cavern. Considered a sacred place the Humsoo will take meticulous preparation to be reunited with their deity. Upon a tribe members passing the rest of the group will gather personal possessions and along with rocks wrap the fallen in a ceremonial garment. The deceased will then be blessed and set to the oceans where they will be submerged into the depths of the ocean. In this way the Humsoo believe that the deceased will eventually be reunited with Laimpei in their sacred cavern.

A state for the Stateless
“Since the earliest records began the people of the Alucard Sea have lead an existence unique to Mundus… For as long as anyone recalls we have therefore living on our boats travelling the relative safety of the Alucard Islands, we then have had land dwellers from Paracambi, Bakkermaya and Lodja spread into this region establishing their fixed lives…and now we find ourselves denied access to our ancient fisheries…This prejudice we face has lead to our nine tribes joining together and establishing the Confederation of Water Nomads…We therefore claim nine of the Alucard Islands as our sovereign territory and call for the international community to recognize our rights as a sovereign nation.”

~ High Chief, Vouto Rar – Opening statement in the Declaration of Sovereignty

On the 17th of April in 2019, under the leadership of Vouto Rar the first elected High Chief, four Humsoo tribes would make landfall on various uninhabited islands that dot the Alucard region, planting an unidentified banner and proclaiming the islands sovereign territory of the newly formed Confederation of Water Nomads. A new country was born. Though the most recent and the only known official effort by the Humsoo to reach any international attention, this proclamation was not the first attempt at creating a unified identity. In 2015 a Humsoo tribesman by the Name of Nihi Toungzai would meet with three other influential tribes in a first meeting to unite the Humsoo under one sovereign banner. It is not known what became of Nihi, but this conclave is largely believed to be the progenitor for the Declaration of 2019.

In his address, Vouto Rar, would briefly outline the framework for the country’s new political process:

”I have been elected as High Chief of the Confederation for the next 4 years and each tribe shall appoint someone to sit on our council. We therefore claim nine of the Alucard Islands as our sovereign territory…”

The nine islands the High Chief refers to are a small archipelago located in the northern Alucard region. They are bordered by the Bakkerymayan controlled islands of Wellow to the east; Walesby to the south; and the Paracambian controlled islands of Alemba to the west; and Gustavia to the north. Since their initial declaration the Water Nomads have established themselves around various islands in the Alcuard. The Confederation has proclaimed the island of Joothad as their new political capital.

The initial declaration has received a mixture of responses with some welcoming the new Country and its people, often on the basis of sympathies, while others have rejected the declaration refusing to recognize the declaration or any attempted Water Nomad State. In particular the Republic of Lakhzovia and the Kingdom of Clysperis have both officially recognized the new Confederation:

“The nation of Lakhzovia, too has experienced the pain of dispossession and persecution in our native territory… The Lakhzov Republic therefore wishes to extend recognition to your confederation of tribes…”

~ Sachim Kadassa, President of the Lakhzov Republic

” The Kingdom of Clysperis hereby recognizes the Confederation of Water Nomads as a sovereign state, free to stand tall and proud as equals”

~ Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re, Pharoah of Clysperis

While others have shown support they have not outright made any official recognition of the Confederation’s declaration. Of particular note is the Maori Commonwealth (of the Iwi), of which the The Maori Youth Council, has openly sympathized with the Humsoo establishing a “Support Group, intended to help this group ensure their human rights are protected.” According to the Support Group, they seek to provide a voice for young Humsoo aged between 16-21 to engage in political acitivites that would give the Humsoo a voice on the international stage. A statement from one of the groups spokespersons further explained their decision:

"The history of the Maori is not to dissimilar to that of the Water Nomads…We must ensure that they are allowed to develop their lifestyle to a manner suitable for them."

Rejection and Tension
Though the Husoom, and Confederation, have made no intent or open statements of aggression or hostility against other Alucard Countries they have been met with strict rejection in their declaration by many of their neighbors. Most Notably the Empire of Paracambi and the Dukedoms of Bakkerymaya. Understandably, perhaps, the largest point of contention between the two countries and the Declaration is the clear breach of the Fair Seas Concordant. An international treaty outlying an intent to reach an equitable approach to the territorial waters and resources of state sovereignty and law on the open ocean has been cited by many critics against the Declaration as to their refusal to recognize the Confederation. In particular, the following point as outlined by the Fair Seas Concordant text:

* Coastal States have sovereign rights in a 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) with respect to natural resources and certain economic activities, and exercise jurisdiction over marine science research and environmental protection;

~ Fair Seas Concordant, ‘Preface – Summary of the Fair Seas Concordant’

In their Declaration the Confederation of Water Nomads would encroach and breach the EEZ of both Bakkermaya and Paracambi.

The Empire of Paracambi does not recognise the existance of this so called Confederation…We…retain full rights to our territorial waters and EEZ as laid out under the Fair Seas Concord as well as long standing understanding between Paracambi and Bakkermaya.

~ Benson II, Emperor of Paracambi

The nation of Bakkermaya once more reaffirm our claims on the territory we currently occupy as well as those waters granted to us by the FSC. …no individual or group of individuals may take up residency on an island and simply declare it to be a new nation which disrupts the EEZ of several other nations.

~ Hugo Lascelles, Grand Duke of Bakkermaya

However, it is not just international legalities that have earned the Declaration the Ire of many states. The Humsoo, known more widley by the common name, Water Nomads, in the Alucard have often been seen as something a bothersome to the various Alucard nations. Though it is unsure how the Confederation views or will respond with tensions between its fellow Tribes, and its neighboring regions, actions taken by certain tribesmen have been more than enough cause for tensions with the Alucard countries. In may of 2019  the Paracambian navy arrested a group of group on grounds of “criminal damage, theft and illegal fishing”, when the group was conducting fishing within Paracmbian EEZ waters. In June of the same year another group, having breached EEZ waters of Bakkerymaya, was detained by the Bakkermayan Navy following the discovery of a cache of high grade weapons. Later that Year, in December, another group was found to have established a settlement near the Lodijan Island of Tyr. Though no action had been taken against the Group, the incident provoked a new defense policy to be enacted by the Lodjain government.

The most notorious of incident associate with the Humsoo is the Kidnapping of Mila Pasternak, the younger sister of Vadik Pasternak, the Vice President of Kaitaine. A group of twenty Humsoo collaborated with the Bene Gesserit, a paramilitary organization labeled as a terrorist group within Kaitaine, to kidnap Ms. Pasternak and accompanying friends who were holidaying in the Alucard. With the Assistance of the Bakkermyan Navy the Kaitine forces were able to free the young lady and two other Kaitine nationals, though it was reported that four others were taken hostage by the Bene Gesserit, with assistance of the Water Nomads.

These Recent Events have done little to support the image of the Confederation, and possibly increase tensions between the Humsoo and Alucard countries. The Confederation has yet to make an official statement on these incidents.

Compromise
Despite the uneasy relations between the Humsoo and their Alucard Neighbours, the various Alucard countries have seemingly made ways to compromise with the Humsoo enacting policies and making laws that would grant tribals citizenship to their respective country’s in accordance with certain agreements. A new policy in Bakkerymaya would require Humsoo to acquire citizenship in Bakkerymaya or apply as a ‘visitor’ in order to access any of the islands that would be covered by the Declaration. This policy would also require “a photographic and fingerprint record” to be taken from applying Humsoo. In Lodja a policy would open up citizenship for Humsoo “who can prove they have resided in Lodja's exclusive economic zone for 12 months continuously”. As of yet there has been no known policy to be established by the Empire of Paracambi.

 The regional organization; the Treaty of Unity for Alucard Nations (TUNA), have also made the Water Nomad question apart of their founding document. In particular article twelve in the TUNA Charter which states the following:
12. TUNA recognise the Water Nomads as one of many indigenous groups that have managed to maintain their way of life. As a result this organisation shall commit to, wherever possible, supporting their way of life…a) Any Water Nomad wishing to leave their traditional way of life behind will be supported to do so by members of this organisation. ~ Treaty for Unity of Alucard Nations, Charter article 12

Whether these new policies will provide a more stable Alucard or reinforce tensions between the Humsoo and their neighbors remains to be seen 

25
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: September 24, 2021, 01:55:22 AM »
Nation Name: Sudmark

Nation Link: TIO link

Provinces you wish to claim:
1: B-76
2: B-78
3:
4:
5:
6:

Proposed colour of your nation on the map: Any

I, _Ibueri_, have read the rules set down above, and agree to follow them.

26
Map / Re: Claiming Your Spot on the Map
« on: September 20, 2021, 02:58:14 AM »
Would it be possible to remove Ibueri?

27
International News Networks / Shooting in Ansten
« on: September 03, 2021, 11:22:53 PM »
Breaking: Shooting in Ansten, south Ibueri, leaves three dead. Congressmen among the deceased.

A shooting occurred today within the southern city of Ansten leaving three people dead. The Act was carried out during the late morning in the central plaza of the city, specifically at a renowned bistro. It was here that congressmen Claudius Colombo of the Liberal Party was dining. According to witnesses Mr. Colombo and two others had chosen to dine outside in an elevated balcony. At around 11:21 a young man wearing a hooded sweater entered the Bistro. At 11:27 the individual was also seen atop the balcony seated and supposedly dining. At 11:56 witnesses report hearing gunshots, prompting a swift response by local law enforcement commencing a brief shoot out. By 12:04 the shooter and three others including Congressmen Colombo were declared deceased.

Premier Ferrante Aemilius made comments on the situation:
“My dearest condolence to the families of the victims of this horrific event. As Premier, I maintain that Ibueri is a country for all our citizens Tuetonic, Oscani & Vaegir. As such my office will be working diligently with the congress and law agencies to identify and address the issues that led to these actions.”

Other members of the congress also made comments on the situation.  Klara Abricht, current leader of the Unionist Party of Ibueri, had the following comments:

“We are entering an era within our country in which a good portion of our citizen’s very identity is called into question. This political agenda against the Teutonic members of our country has left many antagonized. It’s ultimate result coming to fruition in today’s attack. While violence of this matter should not be condoned, it should be acknowledged. Had our Congress listened to the people’s will instead of focus on political agendas of identity we could have ensured this event never happened. It is my hope that our fellow members of the congress, having their eyes opened, will now be ready to listen and cooperate with the UPI and our coalition partners to create a safe and inclusive Ibueri for all our citizens.” 

Other political organizations also made statements on the situation, of them the most notable and controversial is that of Alban Schwab who seemingly praised the actions of the attacker as “patriotic” and one of “ultimate result of self-sacrifice, though unnecessary”. Alban Schwab is a prominent member of the Voice for Tuetonia, party one that has been often criticised as a concerningly nationalist organization promoting policies accused of being aligned with Teutonic supremacy.  Voice for Teutonia has often been accused of supporting or having links with the People’s Front for the Liberation of Tuetonia (PFLT), a paramilitary organization now deemed terrorist group by the central government, whose goals stem from establishing a Tueton sessionist state in the south of the country, to overthrowing the government in Vrusa and establishing an independent Teutonic nation. Mr. Schwab maintains that the VfT party has no ties to PFLT, though is on record for stating that “Their cause is deserving of sympathy, though their methods less so.”       

Local Law enforcement is currently investigating the incident; however, it is believed that the act of violence was politically motivated and linked with the recent passing of a new education policy within the State Congress. Mr. Colombo, was a major supporter of the new education polices which included the dropping of Teutonic language programs from the core and financially state supported education budgets. The Policy, among others has been coitized as an increasingly aggressive political campaign to remove the identity of the Teutonic ethnic group within the country. Mr. Colombo, is also widly known as being one of three co-authors for a bill that would lead to the eventual privatization of the state owned copper company IbueRame itself a major source of employment through out the country.

The Liberal Party has maintained itself as the ruling party within the congress. Its main opposition being that of the Ibueri Sociale Party. The Liberal Party has maintained a steady policy of economic liberalistion resulting in a steady increase in economic growth. Despite this opposition to the party’s policies remains steady with the largest criticism, generalized, as a sense of over privatization at the expense of the average citizen’s welfare.  Congress members from the less developed southern regions of the country, including Ansten and the Irline Plateau, have accused the Liberal Party of centralizing wealth to the northern coasts, of which Vrusa lies. Other accusations also include a so-called political agenda against the Teutonic identity in favor of the Oscani. 

Regardless of accusations, what is known is that today’s events will have unknown ramifications both political and societal.         


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Press Offices / Re: Press Office of Social Media
« on: September 03, 2021, 10:02:04 PM »

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Press Offices / Re: Press Office of Social Media
« on: September 03, 2021, 08:07:29 PM »

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International News Networks / ----
« on: September 02, 2021, 10:59:39 PM »
New Education policy causes protests

Protests erupted throughout the country today in response to a new education financial policy passed within the state congress. The new policy primarily concerned with outlying a new financial plan for the country wide education policy, has been the Couse of newly arisen criticism by many of Tuetonic-Ibueri, due to the planned implementation of dropping Teutonic language courses as a core subject. This particular action in the poliucy has been the cause of the mass protests primarily in the southern regions of the country. The protestors have voiced their objections claiming the policy to be a further promotion of what they deem a “cultural genocide”, in a prolonged “ethnic agenda” targeting them in favor of the Oscani populace.

One protestor, Claudia Höffner a mother of two, was present at a protest. When asked about her reasons Mrs. Höffner explained “This is more than just about simple grievances about language, this is a concentrated effort to erase us [Teutons] from Ibueri as a whole. First it was the church taxation acts, then the removal of the flag of Teutonia from the capitol building. Now they target our very language. If we don’t act now, then when will it stop? We are just as much Ibuerian as any Oscani!”

The Taxation acts Mrs. Höffner mentioned is reference to another congressional bill passed in 2007 requiring religious institutions of all kinds to pay a property tax to the central government. Yet another bill was passed in 2011 requiring religious institutions to pay a further income tax on their earnings. It is estimated that the majority of Teutons in Ibueri are active practitioners of faith, whether it be Abrahamic varieties or pre-adrian, Teutonic folk faith.     
 
The passing of the new education policy is not without reason however. According to Congressional spokespersons, the resoning for the removal of Tuetonic language courses is attributed to the status of its practitioners as a whole; the continuing decline of the Tutonic population, largely due to emigration west into Daito-administrated Andred, and other regions abroad, in addition to the decrease of native Tuetonic speakers though out the country due to interregional demographic changes, has caused the Tuetonic language to fall below the required threshold to maintain its status as a regional language.

 Congresswomen Luisa Alonzia made the following comments regarding the situation. “In an ideal situation we could cater to all language groups and cultures within the country. Unfortunately, we do not have an ideal situation. Funding for the commission of Education, previously used to cater to Teutonic language courses and Teutonic centered programs, could be used for more pressing courses and programs catering to all students.”

It is unclear how long the demonstrations against the new policy will take place, however they have for the most part remained peaceful. 

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