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A Dalimbari Café Exterior The café is housed in a quaint, historical building with a brick façade. Large windows allow passersby to peek inside, where the warm glow of soft lighting beckons them in. A wooden sign above the entrance reads "Старая Далимбар" (Old Dalimbar) in elegant, Dalimbari script. Outside, a few small tables with wrought-iron chairs are set up for al fresco dining in warmer months, surrounded by planters filled with colorful flowers. Interior Stepping inside, guests are greeted by a cozy, home-like atmosphere. The walls are adorned with traditional Dalimbari decor, including vintage samovars, embroidered tapestries, and wooden matryoshka dolls. Rustic wooden tables and chairs are arranged comfortably, with plush cushions and lace tablecloths adding to the cozy feel. Soft folk music plays in the background, enhancing the ambiance. Menu The menu is a beautifully bound book, with descriptions in both Dalimbari and Common, showcasing the variety of traditional dishes on offer. 1. Borscht - A rich beet soup served hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill, accompanied by a slice of rye bread. 2. Pelmeni - Dumplings filled with a savory mix of pork, beef, and spices, served with melted butter and a side of sour cream. 3. Blini - Thin, golden pancakes served with a variety of toppings including smoked salmon, red caviar, honey, and sour cream. 4. Beef Stroganoff - Tender strips of beef in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over buttered noodles or rice, garnished with fresh parsley. 5. Shchi - A hearty cabbage soup with a rich broth, served with a slice of crusty rye bread and a side of sour cream. 6. Pirozhki - Small, stuffed buns with fillings like meat, cabbage, potatoes, or mushrooms, baked to a golden brown and served warm. 7. Olivier Salad - A traditional Dalimbari potato salad with diced vegetables and meat, dressed in creamy mayonnaise, served as a refreshing starter or side dish. 8. Herring Under a Fur Coat (Shuba) - A layered salad featuring pickled herring, boiled vegetables, and mayonnaise, beautifully presented with a garnish of grated egg. 9. Kulebyaka - A lavish pie filled with layers of fish, rice, mushrooms, and hard-boiled eggs, encased in a flaky pastry crust. 10. Solyanka - A tangy, thick soup made with meat, fish, or mushrooms, flavored with pickles, olives, and a slice of lemon, served with sour cream. 11. Kvass - A traditional fermented beverage made from rye bread, served chilled, with a slight effervescence and a refreshing, mildly sour taste. 12. Vareniki - Dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or cherries, served with a generous spoonful of sour cream and a sprinkle of sugar for the sweet variety. Service The staff, dressed in traditional Dalimbari attire, are warm and hospitable, ready to explain the dishes and share stories about their origins. They ensure that each guest feels like a part of the family, enhancing the authentic dining experience. Atmosphere The café has a warm and intimate feel, with soft lighting from vintage lamps and candles on the tables. In the colder months, a fireplace crackles in one corner, adding to the cozy ambiance. Regulars and newcomers alike feel at home, enjoying leisurely meals and good company in this charming, cultural haven. This café is more than just a place to eat; it's a journey into the heart of Dalimbari culinary tradition and hospitality.

Results of Match Day 7 of the Group Stage of RWC 5 Group A Varanius 12–14 Hertfordshire and Jammbo Larxia 6–13 Cambria Avadonialis 15–39 Overthinkers Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Overthinkers 6 5 0 1 134 67 +67 4 24 2 Cambria 6 5 0 1 104 42 +62 2 22 3 Larxia 6 3 0 3 61 64 −3 1 13^ 4 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 6 3 0 3 56 70 −14 1 13^ 5 Avadonialis 6 2 0 4 81 89 −8 4 12 6 Rivalfiume 6 2 0 4 43 74 −31 2 10 7 Varanius 6 1 0 5 37 110 −73 2 6 ^tie broken by virtue of (a) Head-to-head record: Larxia 1-0 Hertfordshire and Jammbo Group B Sekiya 17–6 Nieubasria New Velka (NPC) 0–7 Teralyon Zhiznovsk 7–22 United Adaikes Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Teralyon 6 6 0 0 89 34 +55 2 26 2 United Adaikes 6 5 0 1 98 34 +64 4 24 3 Fujai 6 4 0 2 81 41 +40 4 20 4 Sekiya 6 3 0 3 97 112 −15 2 14 5 Zhiznovsk 6 2 0 4 82 110 −28 1 9 6 Nieubasria 6 1 0 5 52 99 −47 2 6 7 New Velka (NPC) 6 0 0 6 34 103 −69 1 1 Group C Arifiyyah 19–10 Saint Mark Einherfell (NPC) 7–31 Zoran Nouveauterra 10–7 Ryxtylopia Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Ryxtylopia 6 5 0 1 87 65 +22 2 22 2 Zoran 6 4 0 2 105 65 +40 3 19 3 Nouveauterra 6 3 1 2 53 42 +11 2 16 4 Saint Mark 6 3 0 3 67 63 +4 2 14^ 5 Peourouin 6 3 0 3 90 81 +9 2 14^ 6 Arifiyyah 6 2 1 3 69 66 +3 2 12 7 Einherfell (NPC) 6 0 0 6 32 121 −89 1 1 ^tie broken by virtue of (a) Head-to-head record: Saint Mark 1-0 Peourouin Group D Denieria (NPC) 0–15 Min-Su Mygrdiyah 13–25 Giovanniland Nalibia 0–0 Dalimbar Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Dalimbar 6 4 1 1 109 76 +33 3 21 2 Giovanniland 6 4 0 2 78 70 +8 3 19 3 Ostronia 6 4 0 2 106 55 +51 2 18 4 Mygrdiyah 6 4 0 2 98 56 +42 1 17 5 Nalibia 6 3 1 2 44 71 −27 0 14 6 Min-Su 6 1 0 5 38 77 −39 3 7 7 Denieria (NPC) 6 0 0 6 39 107 −68 2 2 Bracketing for the Knockouts Round of RWC 5 Round of 16 Overthinkers v Myrgdiyah Grand Merchen Stadium, Cangham United Adaikes v Nouveauterra Valley Dome Arena, Cargan Ryxtylopia v Sekiya Glace Field, Occida Giovanniland v Larxia Welker Stadium, Anders Teralyon v Saint Mark Roller Field, Hestmere Cambria v Ostronia Len Condor Stadium, Cangham Dalimbar v Hertfordshire and Jammbo Liegen Star Stadium, Anders Zoran v Fujai Garner Swoop Stadium, Aurum

Results of Match Day 6 of the Group Stage of RWC 5 Group A Overthinkers 11–3 Larxia Cambria 36–7 Varanius Hertfordshire and Jammbo 16–0 Rivalfiume Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Overthinkers 5 4 0 1 95 52 +43 3 19 q 2 Cambria 5 4 0 1 91 36 +55 2 18 q 3 Larxia 5 3 0 2 55 51 +4 0 12^ 4 Avadonialis 5 2 0 3 66 50 +16 4 12^ 5 Rivalfiume 6 2 0 4 43 74 −31 2 10 e 6 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 5 2 0 3 42 58 −16 1 9 7 Varanius 5 1 0 4 25 96 −71 1 5 e ^tie broken by virtue of (a) Head-to-head record: Larxia 1-0 Avadonialis Group B United Adaikes 11–0 New Velka (NPC) Teralyon 34–10 Sekiya Nieubasria 14–29 Fujai Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Teralyon 5 5 0 0 82 34 +48 2 22 q 2 Fujai 6 4 0 2 81 41 +40 4 20 q 3 United Adaikes 5 4 0 1 76 27 +49 3 19 q 4 Sekiya 5 2 0 3 80 106 −26 2 10 5 Zhiznovsk 5 2 0 3 75 88 −13 1 9 6 Nieubasria 5 1 0 4 46 82 −36 2 6 7 New Velka (NPC) 5 0 0 5 34 96 −62 0 0 e Group C Ryxtylopia 21–17 Einherfell (NPC) Zoran 12–7 Arifiyyah Saint Mark 20–11 Peourouin Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Ryxtylopia 5 5 0 0 80 55 +25 1 21 Q 2 Zoran 5 3 0 2 74 58 +16 2 14^ 3 Saint Mark 5 3 0 2 57 44 +13 2 14^ 4 Peourouin 6 3 0 3 90 81 +9 2 14^ 5 Nouveauterra 5 2 1 2 43 35 +8 2 12 6 Arifiyyah 5 1 1 3 50 56 −6 2 8 e 7 Einherfell (NPC) 5 0 0 5 25 90 −65 1 1 e ^tie broken by virtue of (a) Head-to-head record: Zoran 1-0 Saint Mark; Zoran 1-0 Peourouin; Saint Mark 1-0 Peourouin Zoran 2-0; Saint Mark 1-1; Peourouin 0-2 Group D Dalimbar 21–12 Mygrdiyah Giovanniland 17–10 Denieria (NPC) Min-Su 3–14 Ostronia Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Dalimbar 5 4 0 1 109 76 +33 3 19 q 2 Ostronia 6 4 0 2 106 55 +51 2 18 q 3 Mygrdiyah 5 4 0 1 85 31 +54 1 17 4 Giovanniland 5 3 0 2 53 57 −4 2 14 5 Nalibia 5 3 0 2 44 71 −27 0 12 6 Min-Su 5 0 0 5 23 77 −54 3 3 e 7 Denieria (NPC) 5 0 0 5 39 92 −53 2 2 e e eliminated from contention in the Knockouts round q qualified to the Knockouts round Q secured group standing in the Knockouts round

THE PRODIGY PAGE 13 The Shockwave Gaither Williams comments on the EV boom and changing times Gaither Williams knows a thing or two about technology. While tinkering after hours at Rikard Electric in Cangham, Williams discovered a method that made traditional batteries better withstand harsher conditions and constant use. He believed in his product enough that in 1387, with considerable loans from particular benefactors, he left Rikard to start his own company: the unassumingly named Large Box, Inc. “I don’t remember the exact origins of the name,” he told one interviewer in 1413. “It was an inside joke between myself and my sisters, and I didn’t want to spend weeks agonizing over the perfect branding. So I introduced myself to investors as Large Box, and the product sold itself.” Over the following 37 years, Williams became one of the faces of technology in Overthinkers. As the world started to follow Andolia in adopting clean energy, his innovations formed the foundation of the new grid. Many of us remember his 30-second PSAs promoting the industry. He was a great spokesman, because he believed in what he was doing. In 1398, Large Box bought out Rikard Electric. The plant is still in operation, churning out appliances large and small for household use. “That was where I felt like I had made it,” Williams told me. We were seated in a private conference room at the Werther Hotel. Rather than a suit, the CEO had opted for an Ethaertin wool sweater to keep off the April chill. “It had all come full circle.” But Williams’ backstory is nothing new, certainly not with the publication of his memoir, The Will and the Way, last year. When we spoke, the now-infamous electric vehicle bill was not yet out of committee, but it was a certainty that it would hamper the industry’s rapid growth. Yet when I popped the question, Williams seemed unconcerned. “Five years, ten years, it’s still happening,” he said. “Personal vehicle ownership is at an all-time high in Overthinkers. The people want to get to exactly where they need to go, exactly when they want to. Now that they can own a low-maintenance, low-impact car, taking public transport will become comparatively a hassle.” As usual, Williams was one of the first in the Oertin to invest in electric vehicles. Large Box partnered with a Larxian manufacturer, providing the necessary electronics for the Journey line, one of the most affordable EVs available at the time. While produced in Larxia, Journeys were the first of their kind to be imported to Overthinkers wholesale. Williams and others have also personally invested in domestic startups creating EVs. “Everyone tells me, ‘Overthinkers have a particular way of doing things; you’re not gonna change that anytime soon,’ “ he said. “I always respond with something like, ‘I don’t need to.’ I know how to protect my investments. I can play the long game.” The long game indeed. Williams is well aware that the change he wants to see has wider repercussions, the very same that the legislature is seeking to mitigate in their own way. But Williams has put his money where his mouth is. Through the Gaither WIlliams Foundation, he has donated millions of monetary units to start technical programs in Cangham, Hestmere, and Anders. His own technicians have designed a curriculum for students to learn the necessary skills to either manufacture or, more importantly, service EVs. “We’re opening up a whole new world of skilled jobs here. Not everyone is NUA smart, you know. Some of us are Hestmere Technical College smart, and you need those kind of people too.” I opted not to mention WIlliams’ postgraduate degree from NUA at the time. “At the end of the day, it’s about freedom,” he summarized. “The freedom to move around on your own terms feels like a basic human right. But we as a society have convinced ourselves that it’s a bad thing. I think consumers today have wised up. No regulation is going to keep it at bay forever—there’s a shockwave coming, and you can already see things shaking.” ⬛

Halfway-Group Politics The players of the ARR were heading to the stadium for the game against Peourouin, most calmly chatting or reading stuff, Tivarra as usual on his lists, but amongst the many conversations one stood out more than the others, between two of the players that were going to play: Guilbirto Tivaña and Rinaco Patochá. [Tivaña]: So, yesterday i was reading the news and i saw that progress on Chacas new stadium is nearly complete, it should be finished in about 4 to 5 months, i haven't gone there but ive seen in images the exterior is mainly done, they're just doing all the interior stuff now. [Patochá]: That'll be something for Trichananco fans to be jealous of. [Tivaña]: Probably but something did catch my eye. [Patochá]: What was it? [Tivaña]: I can't recall the headline but it was along the line of "Politicians propose funding more rugby stadiums to improve the sport's quality" [Patochá]: Was it? [Tivaña]: Yeah, and i dont know how i feel about it. I mean it would be amaizing to see newer stadiums after all! [Patochá]: Dont know if that necessarily increases the quality of the sport... Also it sounds expensive... [Tivaña]: With the government pushing all sorts of ludicrous infrastructure proyects forward, everybody is trying to get their own agendas funded. [Patochá]: Wasn't that what caused the unrest during the football tournament? [Tivaña]: Well but there weren't any new stadiums for that tournament, they just renovated the older ones, which still proved expensive, and that caused people to be unhappy. During this Zincho Ampardia overhears their conversation from the back seat and joins in. [Ampardia]: What did you say about stadiums? [Tivaña]: Oh, we're talking about if the government builds new stadiums for rugby, since they think it will improve the quality of the sport back home. [Ampardia]: That's BS, we all know that wont increase the quality. [Tivaña]: Will it tho? [Ampardia]: No it wont, it might increase the comfort for spectators, but the sport itself will remain the same, Chacas and Trinchananco have the highest budgets and fanbases, unless that somehow changed we wouldn't get higher quality sport, it depends on the competitiveness, and those two teams have a sort of monopoly over our rugby. [Tivaña]: But the stadiums could be used for stuff other than rugby too. [Patochá]: I mean if that was the case, why not use the money on, like a school? [Tivaña]: Fair point. [Ampardia]: Look, if they go and build more stadiums its going to be a scandal, its okay when they are built and funded by the private sector, when it comes to the government building it, its a whole other story. [Patochá]: The plan seems already pretty advanced tho, we'll have to see what they propose and if they can even agree on something. [Tivaña]: I would be excited. [Ampardia]: Look, i would too, better stadiums are great, especially since half our professional rugby teams still play on pitches, not stadiums, but im sure a lot MORE people wouldn't appreciate it, just look at the football tournament, that happened when the government RENOVATED older stadiums, building new ones is more expensive. [Patochá]: Told you Tivaña. [Tivaña]: Maybe you two are right, guess ill have to wait and see what the reaction from the public and abroad is, oh look we've arrived. The three got up and out of the bus to prepare for the game.

James May: Hello. Since we're alone viewers I'd like to reassure you, I'm okay. I'm currently going through Overthinkers to Cangham in my hovervan. It's the largest settlement here I think? Before I and the others left, I compiled a list of all the tournament nations in the 3 main languages of Hertfordshire-Jammbo. This is for no reason other than, well, I found it fascinating. I hope some of you and the world do too. Enjoy. May's Hertfordshire-Jammbo Language Nation Guide Nation - Common 𐑯𐑧𐑦𐑕 - 𐑱𐑙𐑤𐑰𐑨𐑯/𐑱𐑙𐑤𐑰 Neis - Anglian/Angli Натсийе - Жаммбониан/Жамбевски Natsiye - Jammbonian/Zhambevski ᚳᛟᚾᛟᛞ - ᚻᚪᚱᛏᛗᚸᚱᛇᚾ/ᚻᛠᛏᛗᚸᚱᛖᛁ Cened - Hertmerian/Hertmerei Arifiyyah 𐑺𐑮𐑦𐑓𐑰𐑢𐑨 Erifiya Ерифийа Erifiya ‍‍ᛟᚱᛁᚠᛇᛉᚪ Erifiya Avadonialis 𐑨𐑝𐑧𐑛𐑴𐑯𐑰𐑸𐑤𐑦𐑕 Avedanialis Аведаналис Avedanalis ᚪᚦᛖᛞᚫᚾᛇᚫᛚᛁᛋ Avedanialis Cambria 𐑒𐑨𐑥𐑚𐑮𐑰 Kambrie Камбреи Kambrei ᛣᚪᛗᛒᚱᛇ Kambrie Dalimbar 𐑛𐑨𐑤𐑦𐑥𐑚𐑸 Dalimba Далимба Dalimba ᛞᚪᛚᛁᛗᛒᚪ Dalimba Denieria 𐑛𐑺𐑯𐑰𐑺𐑮𐑰 Denierie Дениерийе Denieriye ᛞᛟᛏᛇᛟᚱᛇ Denierie Einherfell 𐑨𐑦𐑯𐑣𐑧𐑓𐑧𐑤 Ainhefel Анкефел Ankefel ᚪᛁᚾᚻᛖᚠᛖᛚ Ainhefel Fujai 𐑓𐑵𐑢𐑲 Fuyai Фужаи Fuzjai ᚠᚢᛞᛖᚪᛁ Fudeai Giovanniland 𐑛𐑧𐑦𐑵𐑝𐑨𐑯𐑰𐑤𐑨𐑯𐑛 Deiuvaniland Жевяниланд Jevaniland ᛞᛁᛖᚢᚦᚫᚾᛇᛚᚪᚾᛞ Dieuvaniland Hertfordshire and Jammbo 𐑣𐑸𐑑𐑓𐑫𐑛𐑕𐑻𐑯𐑛𐑧𐑨𐑥𐑚𐑴 Hartferdsierndeambeu Кятфедсуз и Жамбею Kartfedsuw y Zhambeyu ᛋᚹᛉᛞᚻᚪᚱᛏᚠᚩᚱᛞᚫᛗᛒᚩ Swydhertfordaambo Larxia 𐑤𐑨𐑒𐑕𐑰 Laksie Лаксийе Laksiye ᛚᛖᛁᚳᛇ Leicie Min-Su 𐑥𐑦𐑯𐑕𐑵 Minsu Минсу Minsu ᛋᚢᛗᛁᚾᚪᚢ Suminau Mygrdiyah 𐑥𐑱𐑜𐑻𐑛𐑰𐑢𐑨 Maigerdiya Мигъдийа Migerdiya ᛗᚪᛁᚷᛞᛇᛉᚪ Maigdiya Nalibia 𐑯𐑺𐑤𐑦𐑚𐑰 Nelibie Нелибийе Nelibiye ᚾᛟᛚᛁᛒᛇ Nelibie New Velka 𐑡𐑧𐑝𐑧𐑤𐑒𐑧 Jevelke Неуве Велка Neuve Velka ᚦᛖᛚᛣᚪᚢᚹᛉᛞ Velkauwyd Nieubasria 𐑯𐑰𐑡𐑵𐑚𐑧𐑦𐑕𐑮𐑰 Nijubeisrie Наибеисрийе Naibeisriye ᚾᛇᛄᚢᛒᛖᛁᛋᚱᛇ Nijubeisrie Nouveauterra 𐑯𐑵𐑝𐑧𐑳𐑑𐑺𐑮𐑧 Nuveutere Нувеутере Nuveutere ᚾᚢᚦᛖᚢᛏᛟᚱᛖ Nuveutere Ostronia 𐑨𐑕𐑑𐑮𐑧𐑳𐑯𐑰 Astreunie Астреунийе Astreuniye ᚪᛋᛏᚱᛖᚢᚾᛇ Astreunie Overthinkers 𐑧𐑳𐑝𐑧𐑶𐑯𐑒𐑧𐑕 Euveoinkes Врукмислести Vrukmislesti ᚳᛟᛞᛁᛚᚹᛇ Cedilwie Peourouin /𐑧𐑳𐑮𐑴𐑦𐑯 Yeureuin Пеуруен Peuruen ᛈᛖᚢᚱᛖᚢᛁᚾ Peureuin Rivalfiume 𐑮𐑦𐑤/𐑫𐑥 Rilyum Рифюм Rifyum ᚱᛁᚦᛢᛗ Rivyum Ryxtylopia 𐑮𐑦𐑒𐑕𐑑𐑦𐑤𐑧𐑳𐑐𐑰 Rikstileupie Рикстилеупийе Rikstileupiye ᚱᛁᚥᛏᛁᛚᛖᚢᛈᛇ Rikstileupie Saint Mark 𐑕𐑧𐑦𐑯𐑥𐑨𐑒 Seinmak Вети Мака Veti Maka ᛗᚫᛣᛋᚫᚾᛏ Maksant Sekiya 𐑕𐑺𐑒𐑰/𐑧 Sekiye Секийе Sekiye ᛋᛟᛣᛇᛉᛖ Sekiye Teralyon 𐑑𐑧𐑮𐑨𐑤/𐑨𐑯 Teralyan Тералиен Teralien ᛏᛖᚱᚪᛚᛉᚫᚾ Teralyan United Adaikes 𐑡𐑵𐑯𐑨𐑦𐑑𐑸𐑛𐑲𐑰𐑒𐑦𐑕 Junaitadaiikis Абединени Адаикес Abedineni Adaikis ᚪᛞᚪᛁᛣᛁᛋᚢᚾᛟᛞᛁᚷ Adaikisunedig Varanius 𐑝𐑧𐑮𐑨𐑯𐑰𐑳𐑕 Veranius Верани Verani ᚦᛖᚱᚫᚾᛇᚢᛋ Veranius Zhiznovsk 𐑧𐑦𐑟𐑯𐑨𐑝𐑕 Eiznavs Еизнавс Eiznavs ᛖᛁᛥᚾᚪᚦᛋ Eistnavs Zoran 𐑟𐑹𐑮𐑨𐑯 Zoran Зечуэдан Zecuwdan ᛥᚪᛖᚳᚢᚹᚫᚾ Staecuwan James May: Thank you very much for taking the time to read this. Here's a fact you probably caught onto, 'Veti' is Jammbonian for 'Saint'. It looks like I'm not far from Cangham now, so it's back to dealing with Pinky and Perky. Joy. [May's phone rings.] James May: Speak of the devil. [May answers the call.] James May: Hello, James speaking. Jeremy Clarkson: Hi, it's Jeremy and Richard. Just wanted to let you know, me and Hammond have been selected ahead of Shizune and Julian for the match against Cambria. James May: Right...? Richard Hammond: Now because Shizune's the captain of the team, which I think is an ingenious play- James May: You're right, I have to hand it to Hisao, he and Ayumu had a good idea going. No one's going to figure out The Youkai's strategies and adaptations unless they have a full comprehension of Hertfordian Sign Language. Richard Hammond: Exactly. Anyway, shut up. I was talking. James May: Oooooo! Jeremy Clarkson: Because Shizune has been placed on the bench for this match, Tala has been made captain. He can be quite scary. James May: Who's playing against Cambria anyway? Jeremy Clarkson: Okay, so... hold on, let me get my reading glasses. Richard Hammond: Ah, an old ape trying to read a team sheet. Jeremy Clarkson: Not the time, Hammond. James May: You got it? Jeremy Clarkson: ...Yep, I got it. Hisao and Ayumu have selected Richard, myself, you, Kirumi, Tess, Tarrick, Lichova, Nagisa, Lain, Damian, Karaina, Shu, Gwyn, Tala and Faust. James May: Hold on, Tarrick? Richard Hammond: Yep! He scored 2 tries in our 17-10 win over the hosts. James May: I never thought I'd see the day. Also, we beat Overthinkers? Richard Hammond: We did. The other try and conversion were scored by Mizore and Naho respectively. James May: ...I was almost hoping we didn't. So if I've got this straight, that means Julian, Shizune, Reimu, Free, Mizore, Nia, Brooklyn, Pri, Hanako, Rin, Clarkov, Naho, Pax and Ozen are on the bench. Richard Hammond: Yeah. Jeremy Clarkson: This is no time to be dallying, James. James May: I'll be there as quick as I can. Jeremy Clarkson: See you soon, goodbye. Hammond says bye. James May: Goodbye. [Clarkson ends the call. Over in Cangham...] Jeremy Clarkson: I'm not filled with much hope. Richard Hammond: Well, the others seem to trust that James will make it. Jeremy Clarkson: I guess we have to cross our fingers and hope for the best. Richard Hammond: Are we at the Grand Merchen or the Len Condor? Jeremy Clarkson: You know, I'm not sure. Richard Hammond: ...He's gonna get lost, isn't he? [Over with the hovervan...] James May: Now I've got some driving to do. This is no time to be Captain Slow. Come on, Captain National Speed Limit!

Seventy years had passed since the Demon King's invasion of Nurvus. The Great Northern Kingdom of Malkach fell within a few years, and the Northern Demon Army steadily advanced southward until a stalemate was reached. The Southern Coalition of Nurvus managed to halt their progress at the Nurvus Wastes, a desolate and dangerous area where even the mighty Demon King struggled to proceed. The Southern Coalition comprised the four remaining powers in Nurvus. The Kingdom of Ostriao, protected by the great dividing mountain range, managed to retain much of its northern territory. The Dual Monarchy of Peo-Ruin, situated on the frontier of the Nurvus Wastes, faced the Demon King's army directly. The Empire of Yekisekiyase, a theocratic state, used its powerful paladins to delay the demon forces. Lastly, the Kingdom of Rivalioni, although fortunate to avoid much combat, provided substantial material support to the rest of the coalition. The map of Eferios in the year 213428, 21204 years after the great collapse, and 3423 years since the founding of magic. Despite Nurvus's pleas for help against the demons, the rest of the world remained silent, unwilling or perhaps too afraid to confront the formidable demon threat. The demon catastrophe in Nurvus, however, attracted a huge influx of adventurers from around the globe, many seeking the fame and fortune that came with being an adventurer. Some of the most powerful fighters arrived from the Kingdoms of Camembert and Foogeye in Polaria, while renowned clerics and mages from Maint Sark and the Purple Empire also came to aid in the battle against the demon menace. The war against the demons was fierce and relentless. The Coalition forces, reinforced by the Adventurer guilds, fought valiantly, using their unique strengths to their advantage. The Kingdom of Ostriao's natural fortifications provided a strategic advantage, allowing them to launch surprise attacks against the demon forces. The Dual Monarchy of Peo-Ruin's brave soldiers defended the frontier with unwavering resolve, often engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat with the demonic invaders. The Empire of Yekisekiyase's paladins, blessed with divine power, became legendary for their ability to turn the tide of battle with their holy magic. Meanwhile, the Kingdom of Rivalioni's logistical support ensured that the coalition armies were well-supplied and ready for the next confrontation. Despite the Coalition's efforts, the demon threat remained a constant pressure on Nurvus. The Demon King, though contained, was far from defeated. As the years passed, the people of Nurvus held onto hope, drawing strength from the unity and bravery of their defenders. The war against the demons became a story of resilience and defiance, a testament to the enduring spirit of Nurvus and its allies. The battle for Nurvus was far from over, but the determination to reclaim their land and vanquish the Demon King burned brighter than ever in the hearts of its people. As the war began to settle down, many of the adventurers that had arrived began to settle in Nurvus. Drawn by the land's raw beauty and the sense of purpose they found in defending it, they established new lives amid the chaos. Some founded families and built homes, integrating into local communities and sharing their diverse cultures and knowledge. Others set up guilds and training schools, passing on their skills to the next generation of warriors and mages. Their presence brought new vitality to Nurvus, fostering a spirit of resilience and hope among the beleaguered populace. Among the many adventurers who arrived in Nurvus was a great mage named Sylvie from the Central Continent. Known for her unparalleled mastery of elemental magic, Sylvie quickly became a key figure in the resistance against the demons. During her time in Nurvus, she met Kang, a noble paladin from the Empire of Yekisekiyase. Their bond grew strong amidst the trials of war, and they fell deeply in love. Together, they envisioned a future beyond the conflict, where they could retire and raise a family in peace. However, fate had other plans. On one final, perilous quest to turn the tide against the demon forces, Kang met his end, sacrificing himself to protect his comrades and buy crucial time for the coalition's forces. Sylvie was left heartbroken, her dreams of a peaceful life shattered. She found solace in their two children, a son named Tang and a younger daughter named Mei. Determined to honour Kang's legacy, Sylvie dedicated herself to raising Tang and Mei, instilling in them the same values of bravery and selflessness that defined their father, hoping that one day they too could live in a peaceful world.

delve. FEATURED NATIONAL GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT EXCLUSIVE: Three years later, Readers want the Valley Line Tunnel reopened—for cars The Valley Line Tunnel, formerly the primary route in and out of the remote town of Read, closed three years ago due to compounding structural and flooding concerns. Breanna Mark can see the Valley Line Tunnel from her business on the southern edge of Read. “It’s hard to ignore,” she said. “You look down the hill and it’s just empty space, a couple farmhouses, and then a train track to nowhere.” Read, which has a population of just over 6,000, is located on a plateau about 20 miles north-northwest of Zoewey. It’s one of the more remote places in Overthinkers, hemmed in by both natural geography and protected cultural lands. In 1338, the Valley Line—the country’s oldest railway—was extended past Zoewey to connect the community. Suddenly, Read was a crucial hub for the scattered farms for miles around. The town doubled in population. Cutting off circulation In the 1360s, the National Transit Authority authorized an expansion of the tunnel to better accommodate its newer, larger trains. That was where things started to go wrong. “I don’t fully know what happened, but I can only assume it was a consequence of going with the lowest bidder,” explained Dean Virga, a veteran engineer based out of the main NTA office in Aurum. “The end result was that a lot of corners were cut that shouldn’t have been. They tried to keep a lot of the old structure without accounting for the added stress they were putting on it. It’s a miracle it held together as long as it did.” A miracle indeed—in spite of everything, it was another thirty years before the tunnel required more than regular, standard maintenance. New materials produced in southern Andolia were incorporated into a reinforcing frame, intended to halt any further damage to the original structure. But the battle would soon be fought on another front. Heavy rains around the turn of the century shifted the landscape in a very literal sense, not only flooding and damaging the floor of the tunnel, but softening the surrounding earth. “That was an issue for structures all over,” Virga noted, “but it was especially bad for the Read tunnel.” Virga was a newly minted engineer at the time and remembers being sent to inspect the damage with his supervisor. “It looked fine, if you didn’t know what to look for,” he recalled. “Like, it was hard to imagine that solid thing budging a quarter inch. The thing is, a quarter inch can spell disaster for something like that.” Over the next thirty years, crews made more and more frequent trips to Read, trying to shore up the soil at either end of the tunnel. The pendulum crept lower and lower with every swing. In 1421, multiple beams were found to be partially sheared, and the concrete floor severely warped. The NTA closed the tunnel immediately, and suddenly Read was once again an isolated village. By 11 o’clock on a Tuesday, Breanna’s Buzz-Inn is almost completely empty. Treading water On paper, Read’s population is 6,000, but according to the Read Commercial League’s website, closer to 15,000 are dependent on it. The only other major thoroughfare is Highway 407, which leads northeast before looping back south to Joen. Travel time to Zoewey was 15 minutes by rail, but it’s 35 by road. “So many people here work in Zoewey,” Mark said. “Now they’re spending twice as long, and three times as much in gas, to get to work every day. There aren’t jobs closer by for them to take. I’ve had to cut back on my staff, and just about everyone I know has said the same.” Mark is the proprietor of Breanna’s Buzz-Inn, a retro diner of the kind you would expect to find in a tiny rural town. She bought it seven years ago from a family that had owned the place for three generations. When we spoke to her, it was the middle of the breakfast rush, and the space was about half full. Mark said it was the busiest time of day. “Our breakfast is part of the daily routine for the locals, but even they’ve had to cut back because of financial reasons,” she elaborated. “All the products we get were already coming in on 407, so we’re lucky that that wasn’t impacted super hard. I’ve been able to lower the prices ever so slightly, just to help people out.” At lunch and dinner, however, Mark has historically depended more on outside traffic, and the decline is more sharply felt. “It’s just me, a waitress, and a cook five days out of the week, and it’s rare to have more than we can handle.” Mark moved to Read with her family as a child and considers herself “basically a native.” Now in her late 30s, she has no intention of moving on. “I met my husband here, left my husband somewhere in the Sirenas, met my wife here, we’re raising our two children here,” she said. “We’re sticking around until we physically can’t anymore.” But with little movement to repair and reopen the Valley Line Tunnel, many residents are having to weigh their options—do they commit to the long haul, like Mark, or cut their losses and move closer to where the jobs are? No matter what, Readers are being forced to adapt. According to the National Social Survey, in 1420, only about 65 percent of households in the Read Statistical District owned a personal vehicle. By 1423, that estimate had jumped to 85 percent. Now, some thinkers are proposing a way to capitalize on this forced lifestyle shift. Raze it and pave it The Valley Line Tunnel is critical because there are few ways to easily scale or circumnavigate the ridge separating the Read area from Zoewey. Carving a new path that could safely handle the same amount of general traffic would be nearly as expensive as redoing the tunnel from scratch, according to Virga. He noted that the lack of activity is not necessarily wilful neglect: the NTA board has heard out a number of solutions in that time, but have not been satisfied with any proposals to date. Regardless, locals may be ready to take matters into their own hands. Five months ago, Burt & Hiram Technical, a Zoewey-based engineering firm with a history of public projects in Read, unveiled preliminary plans for taking the tunnel in a new direction: converting it to automobile traffic. “We can do this in a way that saves everyone a lot of money and a lot of headache,” a representative told the Read City Commission during a presentation in March. “Roadways aren’t held to the same high scrutiny as the NTA railways, and it could be administered at the district level instead of requiring national appropriations.” The proposed solution would extend Main Street, which already runs parallel to the railroad, further south until it reached the tunnel. On the other side of the tunnel, it would connect with existing rural roads just beyond. The total of new roadway added would be less than 10 miles, but it would span two districts. Neither the Read nor Zoewey District Commissions have officially considered the proposal yet, as Burt & Hiram says it is focused on building community support first. “Once we are completely sure that this is move is a good and necessary thing for our community, we will approach the districts with a bid for a full engineering analysis,” CEO James Burt stated. “If that gets approved, we will have to go to the NTA to get the line permanently discontinued, the land sold to the districts, and fund the project from there.” Breanna’s Buzz-Inn is located on Main Street and would be the first thing travelers see when they drive in on this theoretical road. The potential impact of this is not lost on Mark. “If maintaining the rail line is too much trouble for the feds, which it evidently is, and we have the means and motive to solve the problem locally, then I don’t see why we shouldn’t go for it.” Of the other residents we talked to, a narrow majority were at least tentatively in favor. Generally, they were employed elsewhere and reluctant to move. However, few could be considered enthusiastic. “I’d hate to see the rail gone,” summarized Paul Waeld, who has lived in the area “sixty years and counting.” “The long and short of it is, if we’re not going to be taken care of, at some point we have to take care of ourselves.” For Tina Pratt, also a small business owner, there are still too many question marks. “We’re in this situation because it wasn’t done right the first time. If we rush it again, we’ll have the same issue in another 30 years.” If anyone stands to benefit from an automotive shift, it’s Pratt—she runs a mechanic shop with her husband, Kean. However, she made it clear that she was more concerned with the long-term plan than her own short-term success. “It’s our history, it’s part of our character,” she insisted. “When you start losing that, you don’t get it back half as easy. I don’t want it to be fully forgotten by the time my grandkids are grown.” Conversely, as far as Mark is concerned, embracing change is preferable to losing momentum. “We’ve had a good thing going, and we’ve hit a rough patch. We’ve done that plenty of times before, and we’ve come back. The question becomes, how far back are we going to slide before we move forward again?” d.

3:00 PM Over Time 8 July 1424 New Zoradia, Zoran Atsila leaned back in her chair as the phone call with the Minister of Treasury came to an end and checked her schedule to see what she had to attend next. When she read over the appointment she groaned as she saw the names “Junaluska” and “Sasa” on the page. She massaged her temples in preparation for whatever ludicrous idea the two would present to her. I just passed their joint bill on the Childlessness tax, what more could they possibly want? That is when a fervent knocking came from the door and with a sigh she asked, “Who is it?” “It is I, Junaluska Wesa, commander of the Red Guard of the revolution…” said Junaluska from behind the door. Atsila rolled her eyes as she listened to him drone on about the accomplishments he achieved during the revolution that she was already aware of considering she was the commander of the entire Monarchist Army, “Yes, Junaluska, I get it. Please come in.” she interrupted after a minute or two. Junaluska opened the door and marched on in with open arms, “Thank you for allowing me this meeting, comrade Atsila!” Atsila suppressed her desire to cringe as he called her “comrade”, “Uhuh, now where is Sasa? She is supposed to be in this meeting too.” she asked with a disinterested look, “What? Sasa? Oh! Yes, Sasa. She is supposed to be here but I think we can continue witho-” he was then interrupted by aggressive knocking from the door, “JUNALUSKA, YOU COMMIE BASTARD” exclaims Sasa from behind the door before slamming it open, “YOUR CRONIES KEPT BLOCKING ME FROM ENTERING THE BUILDING!!!” Atsila glared at Junaluska who simply avoided her gaze and gave a faux yawn before he said, “I have no clue what you are talking about.” “Why you li-” “ENOUGH!” yelled Atsila as she rose from her desk, startling the two leaders of the political parties. Atsila sat back down and looked at the two of them before gesturing that they close the door and take a seat. “Now tell me, what did both of you want to see me about?” asked Atsila sternly, “Well, Comrade,” began Junaluska, “the party and I have discussed a proposal on what to do with the tax revenue generated by the Childlessness tax. We have a program that will put the money to good use!” “Uh-huh,” Atsila muttered, unimpressed by the pitch so far, “what about you, Sasa?” “Well my party and I have a similar proposal for what can be done with the tax revenue. One that will genuinely benefit the Zoranian people.” said Sasa excitedly, “Right…well you both realize that the only reason why I agreed to the tax was the assumed use of the revenue would be to further fund social security and healthcare, correct?” “Yes,” responded Junaluska, to the annoyance of Sasa, “but my party’s proposal will be a benefit to us as it can foster allies abroad.” “...I know I am not going to like this…but go ahead. Give me your pitch.” “Thank you, comrade! My party proposes that the revenue go towards the creation of a new office in the SIC called the Office of Workers Liberation.” “...I hate this already.” said Atsila with a frown, “Don’t be so hasty, comrade! This would be a great boon for the nation and the world! The office’s duties will be educating the ideas and principles of Junaluskanism abroad along with promoting and funding worker revolutions to achieve the goal of eradicating the bourgeoisie and capitalism! This could net us allies and supporters from the future socialist republics all around the world!” “...That is a terrible idea! Do you understand what ramifications that would have if it were revealed that our government was promoting unrest and funding terrorist groups in the world!?” exclaimed Atsila, “Ohohoho! They would not be terrorists, comrade, they would be revolutionaries like you and me!” said Junaluska pompously, “No! They would only be considered revolutionaries if they ended up winning and gaining international recognition! Otherwise, they would be classified as terrorist groups! To support and fund them or even get them started would make Zoran a state sponsor of terrorism!” exclaims Atsila, “Sasa, what does your party propose to do with the tax revenue.” “I am so glad you asked, Your Majesty!” said Sasa in a sing songy manner, putting emphasis on the “correct” way to address Atsila, “The Brave Talons and I believe that the tax revenue should be put forward towards a program that would establish Zoranian Culture Centers abroad in foreign countries.” “...Why would you ever suggest that? This sounds like too much of an innocent thing to be good.” asked Atsila in a confused tone, “Well that’s simple, Your Majesty, the goal of these centers would be to promote Zoranian culture abroad in order to show the xenos of foreign lands the superiority of Zoranian culture in order to make our inevitable domination of the world easier.” said Sasa proudly, “Aaaaand there it is, I knew it was too innocent to be anything good.” sighed Atsila, “But no! That is another terrible idea! I will not have taxpayer money be sent abroad to promote a message of racial superiority! That is just ludicrous!” “My proposal doesn’t look so bad now, huh comrade?” asked Junaluska smugly, “No! Your proposal is equally terrible! Both of you have just wasted my time with these horrendous ideas!” raged Atsila. But Junaluska’s and Sasa’s expressions soured at her words and Junaluska slammed his fist on her desk, “Now you listen here you bourgeois traitor!” exclaimed Junaluska, “The people of Esferos will not be safe from corporations and other bourgeois monsters if we do not support the fight against them! We will do this with or without your help, Atsila!” “And so will we!” interjected Sasa, “It is the destiny of the Zoranian people to once again assert their superiority over the other haplogroups and dominate the world! We will fund these centers ourselves if necessary and show the inferiors the inherent superiority of Zoranian culture!” Atsila’s jaw clenched, her nostrils flared, and she shot daggers at the two political party leaders. She slowly rose from her desk and rested her hands on the desk, “None of you will do either of those things, do you understand?” she began menacingly, “I have been tolerant of your parties’ existence since the Revolution but you have been pushing the limits of my tolerance. There is a line that you cannot cross and should you go ahead and attempt to go forward with these plans on your own then you will cross that line.” she started walking around her desk and got very close to the two political party leaders who seemed to have lost some of their boldness. “And when that line is crossed,” she whispers, “you will finally understand the fear that the Corporate officials and generals held in their throats when they learned they faced me in battle and the hopelessness they experienced in the courtroom as I delivered their sentences.” Atsila proceeded to back away slowly and returned to her seat at her desk. When she looked at the faces of the two politicians, the courage they once had to defy her was broken. Their skin was pale, their eyes widened with shock at the threat they had received. “C-com-” started Junaluska but Atsila cut him off with a raised hand, “No, enough. You are both dismissed. Please leave my office before I have the Royal Guard throw you out.” They both nodded quickly before they scurried out of her office. However, despite having successfully cowed their ambitions she knew that this would only temporarily deter them from pursuing their plans. But she did not wish to dwell on that thought and so she decided to take a few minutes for herself and play some swing jazz vinyls she has in her office to relax.

瑞鶴県小松市に5つ星ホテルがグランドオープン GRAND OPENING OF A 5-STAR HOTEL IN KOMATSU, ZUIKAKU By ARIMOTO RYOTA 1423年7月3日 KOMATSU, MINSU – In a momentous event that heralds a new era for tourism in Zuikaku Prefecture, Hinode Hotel Group, Inc. celebrated the grand opening of their latest luxury hotel, "The Hinode Komatsu." This five-star establishment, exquisitely designed with traditional Minsunese architecture, promises to offer an unparalleled experience for guests from around the world. The grand opening ceremony, held yesterday, was attended by notable figures from the tourism industry, local government officials, and enthusiastic residents of Komatsu. The Governor of Zuikaku Prefecture, Moriyama Shinnosuke, and the CEO of Hinode Hotel Group, Inc., Hinode Fushimi, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official opening of the hotel. A Blend of Tradition and Luxury The Hinode Komatsu stands as a testament to the beauty and elegance of Minsunese design. Situated by the pristine shores of Komatsu, the hotel features intricate wooden architecture, serene gardens, and traditional interiors that provide a luxurious yet culturally immersive experience. Each of the 200 guest rooms and suites offers breathtaking views of the sea, seamlessly blending comfort with traditional aesthetics. The east wing of The Hinode Komatsu. Catering to the Growing Tourism Sector Komatsu has seen a significant rise in tourism in recent years, thanks to its scenic coastal landscapes, historical sites, and cultural attractions. The addition of The Hinode Komatsu is set to further boost the local tourism industry by providing high-quality accommodations that cater to both domestic and international visitors. Governor Moriyama expressed his excitement about the new hotel, stating, "The Hinode Komatsu is not just a hotel; it's a gateway to the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Zuikaku Prefecture. We are confident that this establishment will play a pivotal role in attracting more tourists and enhancing their experience in our region." Amenities and Services The Hinode Komatsu offers a range of world-class amenities, including: Gourmet Dining: Multiple dining options featuring local and international cuisines, with a special focus on traditional Minsunese dishes. Spa and Wellness: A luxurious spa offering traditional treatments and modern therapies, along with a state-of-the-art fitness center. Event Spaces: Elegant banquet halls and conference rooms equipped with the latest technology, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. Recreational Activities: A private beach, outdoor swimming pool, and guided tours to nearby attractions ensure guests have a memorable stay. A view inside a suite in The Hinode Komatsu. A Commitment to Sustainability In line with Hinode Hotel Group, Inc.'s commitment to sustainability, The Hinode Komatsu has implemented various eco-friendly practices. The hotel utilizes solar energy, recycles water for its gardens, and sources local and organic ingredients for its restaurants. CEO Hinode Fushimi highlighted the importance of sustainability, saying, "We are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Komatsu while providing our guests with a luxurious experience. Our sustainable practices ensure that we can enjoy and protect this beautiful environment for generations to come." Looking Forward The opening of The Hinode Komatsu is a significant milestone for Hinode Hotel Group, Inc., as it continues to expand its portfolio of luxury hotels across Minsu. With its prime location, exceptional amenities, and dedication to cultural and environmental preservation, The Hinode Komatsu is poised to become a landmark destination for travelers seeking both luxury and an authentic Minsunese experience. As the sun set over the Komatsu coastline, the grand opening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the sky and symbolizing a bright future for The Hinode Komatsu and the flourishing tourism sector of Zuikaku Prefecture.

From the Times of Gida, 26 June 1424 evening edition: STARS WIN MATCH 3 WITH LARGEST POINT DIFFERENCE EVER ANDERS, OVERTHINKERS - A record 7 tries, one penalty kick, and one drop goal in the final minutes of the game led the Ostronia Stars to victory 41 to 9 over Nalibia in the group stage of the Fifth Rugby World Cup. This is the second year that an Ostronian team has played in the Rugby World Cup, and last year's team captain, Erik Tafa, has returned after his recent retirement from Ostronian rugby as head coach for the team. Many doubted the team's chances before the cup began. Tafa assumed his position only a month before the Stars left for Overthinkers and half of the team has not played internationally nor even played with each other. But despite coming together on a high school pitch in Gida just weeks before their first match on the world stage, this team has beaten the odds and won two of its three matches in the group stage so far. Their upcoming match, however, will prove to be the Stars' greatest challenge yet. While so far they have played debut teams from Mygrdiyah and Nalibia, their next match is against Dalimbar's veteran rugby team, which traveled by battleship to Overthinkers with the Dalimbari navy, practicing by playing (and winning) many exhibition matches against teams from all across Esferos. The Dalimbari, last year's world cup hosts and champions, are favored to win against the Stars, but fans in Gida hope that Ostronia's aggressive offense this cup, especially given their exceptional performance in the match against Nalibia, will outpace the Dalimbaris' well-seasoned defenders and their famed captain, Luka Ivika. They point to Dalimbar losing its first match in the group stage this year to Giovanniland, 13-27, although after a rest day Dalimbar won its second match against Min-Su 36-20. An additional worry for the Stars is injury. Coach Tafa told the press that he worries about injuries so much that it keeps him up every night. He is not sure what the Stars will do if any of the team are too injured to play. The Ostronian Rugby Federation released a statement prior to the cup that due to its budgetary constraints it was unable to send any more than fifteen players to this year's cup, much like last year, meaning the team will be unable to play if any player becomes injured. So far the Stars have suffered the usual minor bruises, sprains, and jams, but fears mount that a relentless six match schedule before their scheduled rest day will lead to more serious injuries. The Times reached out to the Ostronian Rugby Federation, which recently signed on Olje Ostronien as official sponsor of the Ostronia Stars, on why they did not bring any additional players to Overthinkers but received reply. No matter all these difficulties, the team are reported to be in great spirits after their record-breaking victory in the previous match. They have already achieved what no one could have expected from them, and this writer personally hopes they will continue to surprise the whole world through the rest of this cup.

Sir Even had been squeaking away at his whiteboard for over an hour going over the good and the bad of the last match against Ryxtylopia. The team had been attentive, but looked even more worried than when the session had begun. They had played well against a good team, but their next opponent was Zoran! They were excellent! The coach pushed the whiteboard to the side, looked at his team and smiled. "Gentlemen, you look like you're about to visit the dentist. We are a strong team and we can win this next match. At this point it's all about getting your heads in the right place. Let's discuss several points about decision making under pressure. First, the role of intuition in strategy ... In rugby, decision making under pressure is a crucial aspect of the game. Players are often required to make split-second decisions, which can have a significant impact on the outcome of the match. While some may argue that this is purely a matter of instinct, the role of intuition in strategy should not be underestimated. Intuition is the ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning. In rugby, this can manifest in a player’s ability to anticipate the movements of their opponents, or to recognize an opportunity for a strategic move. Remember your sessions with The Sisters. You have been trained to use your intuition. For example, Nelson may have an intuitive sense of when to make a break and pass to a supporting player, or Napoli may have a gut feeling about when to tackle an opponent. While these decisions may seem spontaneous, they are often the result of a player’s accumulated experience and knowledge of the game. Next, the importance of adaptability ... Adaptability is another key component of decision-making under pressure in rugby. The game is constantly changing, with players and teams adapting to changing circumstances on the field. For example, a team may have a well-rehearsed game plan, but if the opposition takes an unexpected tactical approach, the team must be able to adapt and adjust their strategy accordingly. Players who are able to think on their feet and make rapid adjustments to their tactics are often the ones who come out on top in high-pressure situations. Finally, we need to review about managing stress and staying focused. These are essential for decision- making under pressure in rugby. The game can be incredibly intense, with players under a great deal of pressure to perform at their best. Players who are able to manage their stress levels and stay focused on the task at hand are more likely to make good decisions, even when under intense pressure. This may involve techniques such as visualization, deep breathing, or mindfulness meditation, which can help players to stay calm and focused during the game. Again, remember the mindfulness training The Sisters helped us with. Overall, decision making under pressure is a crucial aspect of rugby strategy. Players who are able to rely on their intuition, adapt to changing circumstances, and manage their stress levels are well-equipped to make good decisions on the field, even in the most high-pressure situations. You will be your best. I know it! Let's practice some of those techniques now ..." At the session's conclusion, those looks of fear had changed. The Lions still had a deep respect for the Zoranians, but were confident that they could win.

FSTV4 - History of the Pathseekers Episode 4: Meeting the Choden Narrator - A pleasant land was Choden. From the banks of the big river, the forests marched in unbroken ranks. They stretched across the lowlands; they climbed the mountain slopes. Thousands of feet above the valley floor they gave way to tundra, and rocky crests. High over all, the peaks glistened with the eternal glaciers that, in the hot months, fed their waters to the river's flow. In the land of Choden food abounded. Each year, with the fullness of the late springtime, the salmon came up the river. They came in a silver horde, millions of fish; running against the swift waters to reach their ancestral spawning grounds. From this migration the People of Choden took their toll. With great traps they caught such fish as they needed. They dried them, and smoked them; preserving them against the winter's need of food. In the forests wild creatures lived. Caribou, deer, and rabbits, and groundhogs. On the mountain slopes the hoary marmots had their homes. In the high peaks the mountain goats fed on the alpine meadows. Grouse flew in the lowlands; ducks and geese had their homes on the lakes. Big grouse - the blue ones, and the ptarmigan whose coat is white in winter - dwelt in the lands of the high peaks. And in the creeks the trout swarmed. Truly a pleasant land where food abounded. Each summer, when the seasons came, the wild berries ripened. Of their abundance the People took for their winter stores. Roots grew in the forests. On the low lands wild carrots could be gathered. Other roots provided medicine to cleanse the body; to heal diseases. Still others furnished long supple threads which with the people sewed their baskets. The skins of the wild animals provided clothing and blankets. From the skins of deer, and caribou, carefully dressed, they made fine buckskin for leggings and coats and robes. Fishers and martens, mink and weasels gave their glossy furs against the winter need. So warm clothing and soft blankets were made under which the People enjoyed their sleep. It was a good land, and a pleasant land: and land where the Sun God gave lavishly to his People of Choden. The Pathseekers, the Dalimbari, reached this land and began to learn the land. We explored deeper and deeper into the lands, trading with the sun-worshipers. Finding knowledge abound, and safety from the harsh sea.

Anders, Overthinkers — After an unexpected defeat to newcomers Nalibia in the first matchday of the 5th Rugby World Cup, Giovanniland has now bounced back with an exciting win against defending champions Dalimbar. The game had a fair share of action from both teams, as Giovanniland scored 27 points in comparison to Dalimbar's 13, and each team held the lead at different times during the match. The coach, manager and players were very happy with this result, which saved the team from further trouble and gave a dose of motivation for the upcoming matches. The teams' respective captains Marko Telliano Ulpio and Luka Ivica both scored in the first minutes—Marko scored a drop goal three minutes in, and Luka made the first successful try of the game two minutes later but failed to convert, so Dalimbar stayed ahead with a score of 5-3. Giovanna Antonia then turned the tide at 22' with another try and the first successful conversion of the game, but the score was tied by Dalimbari left wing Peter Srecko scored near the end of the first half, 10-10 at half time. The game had been relatively even during these first 40 minutes, and the Giovannilandian team was performing much better than in the first match, however the coach Gyalsena Vatinio-Messalla decided to make some changes to hopefully achieve the first win. The changes proved effective, with right wing Aulo Pelkarmio and full back Gioseppa Sabino-Takori entering in place of Valeria Albone-Gallio and Lukio Tenzino Vittori respectively. Aulo came to score a try and successfully converted it ten minutes into the second half (50'), shifting the momentum towards Giovanniland and allowing Pietro Numeriani to score another try at minute 54, making the score Giovanniland 22-10 Dalimbar. Although a scrum infringement by Demetro Gianluka caused the referee to award a penalty to Dalimbar, which their side scored, a late try by Severo Pompilio-Ortano sealed the fate of the match, earning Giovanniland its first win in the tournament. Karlopole, Giovanniland and Asahi, Minsu — In significant news for the Gaoist communities in both Minsu and Giovanniland, the religious icon of Fujimo-no-Mikoto, the deity of death, has undergone a benediction ritual at the Toyoda Grand Shrine in the city of Asahi. It was transported from its home at the Ukeda Shrine of Karlopole, the largest Gaoist shrine in Giovanniland, to the Minsunese capital city where this important event happened. The icon stayed in the Celestial Hall for three days, where it was enshrined, while prayers and offerings were made by pilgrims from Minsu and even some from Giovanniland. Furthermore, the closing ceremonies involved traditional dances, a great purification rite, and the formal turnover of the icon to the Giovannese priests from Ukeda Shrine. Now the icon is on a journey back to Giovanniland, where it will pass through several cities in the eastern part of the Abrenosto region, where the largest Gaoist community in the country is located. This journey starts in the border city of Aquaviola and passes through other cities such as Verderia, Nunterra, Klementina, Bayabrenti and at last Karlopole, which has a sizable minority of Gaoists among its total population of 347,106 inhabitants. Gaoism is recognized as a regional religion in Giovanniland, followed not only by most Minsunese living in the country but also by some ethnic Giovannese, mostly in the eastern regions near the border with Minsu.

Results of the Semi-Finals of RWC 5 Overthinkers 27–9 Ryxtylopia Teralyon 6–27 Zoran Bracketing of the Knockouts Stage of RWC 5

The sun was shining brightly over Overthinkers, the chosen host for the fifth annual Rugby World Cup. Excitement crackled in the air as fans from all over the globe gathered to witness the much-anticipated quarterfinal clash between the undefeated team from Teralyon and their formidable opponents, Cambria. The stakes were high, and memories of last year's quarterfinals, where Cambria triumphed, loomed large in the minds of many from Teralyon. As fans flocked to the stadium, their jerseys a sea of vibrant purple, a well-known sports pundit from Teralyon, Alrija Vosic, stood at the entrance, microphone in hand, ready to capture the electric atmosphere and the expectations of the Teralyon supporters. "Good afternoon, Teralyon fans!" Alrja's voice boomed through the speakers. "Today, we face one of our toughest challenges yet. Our team will battle it out with Cambria in this crucial quarterfinal match. What do you expect to see from our team today?" A group of enthusiastic fans, faces painted in the purple and silver of Teralyon, surged forward. A young woman named Lena, clutching a handmade sign, was the first to speak. "I expect nothing but excellence from our team! They've been unstoppable this season, and I know they'll bring their A-game today. We're here to support them all the way!" Alrija smiled and nodded, moving on to an older gentleman with a thick mustache and a Teralyon cap perched magnificently on his head. "And you, sir, what are your thoughts?" The man, who introduced himself as Marik, chuckled warmly. "I've been following decades. This is one of the best squads we've ever had. I expect to see strong defense, quick passes, and maybe a few surprises. Our team has the skill and the heart to take this home." The crowd around them cheered in agreement, waving flags and chanting the team's name. Alrija continued to weave through the sea of supporters, each one brimming with confidence and excitement. A group of teenagers, all wearing matching jerseys, shouted in unison, "We expect victory! Teralyon is going to crush it!" Alrija raised his microphone to catch the voice of a middle-aged woman named Elara, who had traveled all the way from Suza with her family. "What do you expect to see from our team, Elara?" "I expect to see teamwork," she said with a determined look. "Our boys have a bond that's stronger than any other team. They play for each other, and that's what makes them unbeatable." As the clock ticked closer to the start of the match, the anticipation reached a fever pitch. Alrija took a moment to address the viewers at home. "There you have it, folks. The fans are buzzing with expectations of excellence, strength, teamwork, and victory. Our dear undefeated team has captured the hearts of many, and today, they'll show the world what they're made of. Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable match!" With that, Alrija joined the sea of fans streaming into the stadium, ready to witness greatness. The roar of the crowd swelled as the players took to the field, each one a hero in the eyes of their nation. As the whistle blew and the game began, the hopes and dreams of Teralyon rested on the shoulders of their beloved team, poised to shine on the world stage once more.

Another day...another disappointing performance. Every day it has been the same since the revolution kicked the corporates out of the country. All the rich people who funded the Circus Conservatory are all gone now...no one wants to support the arts anymore. People these days are too excited by their new high wages and the baubles they can now afford to even think about going to the circus. Which leaves me, oooooooool' Ahuli the Clown to be stuck in the poorly maintained circus grounds as I smoke my cigarette outside the old Corporate Era dorms. "'Ey Ahuli, the Circus Director is calling a meeting." says Gatlin the strong man, "We still have a director?" I asked snarkily, "Come on, Utsasgv, he says it is some good news for once!" encouraged Citlali the acrobat, I roll my eyes and get up to follow them, my huge red shoes squeaking as I go to the old torn up big top tent. Who knows? Maybe some light will shine upon ol' Ahuli once more. As we entered the tent, the stench of old hay and stale popcorn hits my nose. While any normal person would wrinkle their nose at such a smell I just continue on as normal. The circus hasn't had money to keep a janitorial staff for a few months now. Or...wait...maybe it has been a year now, I forget. Anyways, in the center of the circle was the circus director, Danuwoa Tsiyi, holding what appeared to be a piece of fine stationary. "Hey boss, what's that fancy piece of paper you got there?" I ask mildly interested, "Ah Ahuli, thank you for joining us!" he asks in his annoyingly cheerful tone, "Yeah yeah...where do I sit?" He gestures to the rotted benches that my coworkers were sitting on and I joined them, taking a drag on my cigarette as I did. "Well, with Ahuli, Gatlin, and Citlani here, I can now reveal the news! I have recently sent in an application to the Office of Culture and the Arts for their subsidy and we have been chosen as candidates!" said Danuwoa excitedly I perked up at that news, surprised at the fact that the government would consider our rusty old circus to be worthy of the subsidy. But then I focused on the word "candidates". "Now wait a second!" I interject, "The letter said we are 'candidates', how do we actually receive it?" "Well, we have to give a performance to the director of the OCA and several others so they can determine whether we are worth the subsidy." answered Danuwoa, "Oh ****, we are so screwed." I sigh, dragging my hand down my face in disappointment. "Come on, Ahuli!" says Citali, "We might have a chance to save the circus!" "...But what chance do we actually stand here! We haven't had a new routine since the Revolution!" "Then let's start making one!" exclaims Danuwoa excited, "Yeah! Come on, Ahuli! Give us a smile!" encourages Gatlin, who proceeded to slap me in the back with his full strength, sending me falling to the ground. "Oooooooh boy," I say with my face in the ground, "this whole process of trying to get a subsidy is going to suck isn't it."

Canal 7 Dyportes - The Quarterfinals; from now on it only gets more intense! There would be a brief introduction, with a heavily autotuned voice: "In Channel 7 we bring you the best information for your viewing, CHANNEL 7!" Soon after the brief introduction the transmission would begin with a man sat at a desk. "Good afternoon everybody, welcome to Channel 7 SPORTS, the best sporting news in the entire northern half of Aura, im Inrique Miravez today's host, and as many of you have been expecting, today we're taking a dive into the Rugby World Cup being hosted in Overthinkers!" "The ARR beat Sekiya 18-14 meaning we'll be up against Giovanniland, a strong opponent that promises a hard fought an intense game similar to the Sekiya one but with a different flavor! Giovanniland achieves its pass to the quarters after beating Larxia 6-0, not scoring any tries but not allowing Larxia to get even a single point on the board! Everybody's on their edge for this match, but it isn't the only one in the quarterfinals, i think its time that we take a dive into the other 3 matches for the quarter finals of this Rugby World Cup!" "We'll start with..." Overthinkers VS United Adaikes "The hosts continue on their path to greatness, but they will have to face a familiar foe from the last RWC, and from the same round too: UNITED ADAIKES!" "Last time theese two met in Dalimbar, they gave us a match to remember, with Overthinkers having been the surprise of the tournament at that point, but then loosing by ONE POINT to the sharks. For them it was a sad day, being so close to the semis, as the adaikesians reached the semis to knock Ryxtylopia out and then move on to the final where they lost to Dalimbar." "However this time things may be different as Overthinkers being locals will have a slight advantage in their own home, with their fans there to support them and they'll sure be seeking revenge, so lets take a look at their squads and how the game may develop." Overthinkers: "Under coach: Anton Edwards; Overthinkers has seen great success in rugby, topping their group this year, they have more agressive playstyle than United Adaikes, very similar to teams like Zoran, and Peourouin, but still not to the level of agressiveness Sekiya has in their game. Agressive teams usually beneffit from high possetion percentages and the ability to convert their chances, if they struggle with those two their game can quickly go south for them." United Adaikes: "Under coach: Ferne Huxtable; United Adaikes seeks to reach another RWC final, in the group stage they got 2nd place, and have a similar playstyle to teams like Teralyon and Ryxtylopia. Balanced teams usually get less chances than agressive teams, but they have an easier time defending and can build up their chances better than over-agressive or over-defensive sides. However if a balanced team doesn't have a clear goal in mind or good coordination between their attack and defense they can have a hard time scoring or defending, even with the possetion advantage. The Game: "As for the game itself, Overthinkers will probably try to attack early, get an advantage and keep pressuring the adaikesians to keep them on the defense and deny them the opportunity to attack, while the Sharks might try to deny the Kites' the possetion they need to attack, giving them time to build up their plays. Its hard to say which way it will go, however considering Overthinkers are the locals, they will have the pressure to win, which could put them at nerves or could fill them with the determination necessary to get their revenge." Ryxtylopia VS Giovanniland "The Pirates prepare to face their toughest opponent yet, and it will be none other than Giovanniland!" "Ryxtylopia and Giovanniland have not met in a previous RWC, as in Ryxtylopia's RWC4 debut, they got different groups, and Giovanniland got knocked out in the Round of 16." "So as they prepare to meet for the first time in the RWC, both sides will have victory in mind, Giovanniland being closer to Overthinkers might have the advantage when it comes to fans, but ryxtylopian fans can be pretty loud when they need to, so we'll have to see who can get an advantage." Ryxtylopia: "The Pirates want to make it to the finals this year, but it will be hard, however under coach: Andreís Tivarra they have reached some of the greatest glories in Rugby, most notably knocking 2 time champions: Zoran in the quarterfinals of RWC4 and getting 3rd place, this time around they finished first in their group. They have a balanced playstyle, similar very similar to Teralyon, balanced teams usually rely on building up their plays, and defending against pressure from their opponents, if Ryxtylopia fails either of theese they'll probably be out." Giovanniland: "For Giovanniland, coach: Gyalsena Vatinio-Messalla has allowed them to get over the groups in second, and the round of 16, improving on their performance last year. They play Semi-Agressivley, which means like more agressive sides, they feel comfortable with possetion, however they usually hold back on attacking unless the chance is clear and good enough, they also have an easier time defending. If they find enough chances to strike or are able to pressure their rivals they'll be through, if they go too cautious on the attack, their defense could start to struggle." The Game: "For the game, we can expect a lot of possetion changes as both teams have solid defenses and attacks, with Giovanniland probably trying to apply more pressure to Ryxtylopia to keep them on the backfoot, whilst Ryxtylopia would probably play for possetion, and a steady buildup to their plays, that'll give them the best chances to get a lead and hold it. Depending on who is able to do their part better the match could go in any way, either favoring Giovanniland or Ryxtylopia. Teralyon VS Cambria "We get another quarterfinals rematch from last year: Cambria vs Teralyon!" "Theese two met last year in the quarterfinals, where the Cambrian team won 15-7 over the Teralyians, as they moved on to the semis to loose to hosts and eventual winners: Dalimbar." "This time however, Teralyon looks way more prepared, as they're on a roll, continuing their 7-game winstreak, dominating their groups without a single loss and acheiving the victory over Saint Mark! The cambrians better watch out, as they'll probably seek their revenge for last year." Teralyon: "As said before, thanks to their players and coaches: Maldoc Wenavic and Vush Brajna, Teralyon have entered a winning streak, not possesing a single loss to their name since the tournament's start, easily topping their group. Their playstyle very similar to Ryxtylopia's and United Adaikes, a balanced one slightly in favor of attacking, this has worked for them very well so far. As said before teams with balanced playstyles usually like to build up their attacks and defending pressure from rivals. If they can't do either they'll struggle." Cambria: "The Cambrians seek to make the finals after loosing in the semis last year. And under coaches: Kees Gordon and Wolf Bruijs they've made good progress, finishing second in their group and beating Ostronia with a comfy margin. Now they face what could potentially be their toughest rival in the competition, the Cambrians have an agressive playstyle, between Zoran and Sekiya in terms of agressiveness. They'll need possetion and a lot of it to open their attacks, and keep pressure on the enemy and not on their own defense. If they fail on that they'll be easy meat for Teralyon." The Game: "Its hard to say what will go down here, but Cambria if they have the opportunity will try to pressure Teralyon into defense, making sure to retain possetion as much as possible. For Teralyon the game will revolve around DENYING the cambrians possetion, to keep them on edge, and making them commit mistakes in attempts to regain possetion, this will allow give them the luxury to build their plays and get a favorable result." Dalimbar VS Zoran "Previous hosts and current champions: Dalimbar seek to advance, but they'll meet a rival that has given them headaches in the past: ZORAN!" "They didn't meet in the last RWC, some would joke that's the only reason Dalimbar won but leaving jokes aside, Zoran would get knocked out in this round against Ryxtylopia, whilst Dalimbar would advance to win the whole thing against United Adaikes." "The only clash between 2 previous champions in the quarter-finals, Dalimbar possesing 1 title and Zoran 2, the Dalimbari will sureley try to upset this unbalance and go for the win, so lets take a look at the teams and the match!" Dalimbar: "The Dalimbari side looks strong, and... fair enough they are REIGNING CHAMPIONS! But they risk loosing that title if they're not careful, their team is strong, but so is their opponent. Dalimbar is a balanced side, again very similar to Ryxtylopia, Teralyon and United Adaikes. They will beneffit from building up their plays, and holding their rivals at bay, considering they're up against Zoran, keeping possetion as long as possible will be vital. If they play correctly they'll have their revenge against a team that has beaten them in the past." Zoran: "The Zoranians are looking to taste a semi-final after loosing out in Dalimbar, being lead by coach: Amadahy Lvaguta, they'll probably seek out the victory at all costs, Dalimbar may be reigning champion, but Zoran having won the tournament twice in the past has the capacity to face the Dalimbari. Zoran plays semi-agressivley, and they can prove a threat given enough time by pressuring their rival's defense. If they succede and find good enough chances they can get their points, if their rival denies them possetion or breaks their defense, it will be over for the 2-time champions." The Game: "Our prediction for this game is similar to the one we stated bewtween Teralyon and Cambria, but in this case it would be Dalimbar who would need to play for possetion or make the zoranians waste their chances before counter-attacking, for Zoran the first half will be vital and probably decide the pace and path the game will take. The Dalimbari will probably also act more agressive than usual since they're up against a team that has cost them a final in the past, and they'll be out for revenge." "And that's it for our program, we looked at each team, their matchup, their possible strategies, and possible game results for each of the matchups." "Hopefully our side will go far, but it will be interesting to see the match results, we have many talented teams going at eachother, the result can only be entretaining ¿Who'll reach the final?" "But that will be all for today's special. Ive been Inrique Miravez! Today's host, and i thank you for listening, and lending us your time to give you our take on this RWC! Have a good day." Channel 7! Channel 7! Channel 7! A short music theme plays as the camera zooms out, and the transmission ends.

"Your Serene Highness!" The team and others present in the locker room bowed, surprised and delighted that Prince Marcarius had made an unannounced visit to encourage The Lions. "Lions, you are an excellent team. You have defeated this opponent before and you can do it again!" enthused the Prince. "Trust in your abilities, your coach, and your hard work. I will be cheering you on from my box. You will win!" The Prince shook hands and briefly chatted with each player and Coach Rahl, and then hurried to his seat to watch this important match.

(This post is the combined RP effort of @Giovanniland and @Saint Mark) Two weeks prior (27th June 1424) — Palatio Smaraldo, Giovannia Capital City, Giovanniland Prince Marcarius glanced over his briefing papers and handed the packet to Ethan, his private secretary. Although this would be largely a social visit, one never knows when a discussion of issues could pop up. Ethan placed the notes on the nearby occasional table and said, "If Your Serene Highness is ready, we'll head over to the Violet Sitting Room, where we'll join your retinue and then all proceed to the Ballroom. They will be announced first, and then you will be, sir. His Majesty will greet you and then everyone will be seated." "Very well, Ethan. Lead on. I'm very much looking forward to this evening," replied the Prince. In the Ballroom, King Giovanni VI and Prime Minister Elisa Anario-Silva were both awaiting Prince Marcarius. “Greetings, Your Serene Highness, I'm delighted to see you once more! I hope you are well, and that you've enjoyed your stay in Giovanniland so far,” remarked the King. The Prime Minister greeted Prince Marcarius afterwards. “Yes, our visit has been both productive and entertaining, Your Majesty,” replied the Prince with a smile and warm handshake, “a perfect combination.” He then turned to the Prime Minister, greeted her and introduced his entourage to them both. “Certainly! The traditional Abrentan dinner in Porto Violeto and the tour of the Museo Nationale were both awesome,” the King commented. “I believe you’ve met Lady Arlene, Sir Aston, and Lady Phyllis.” As he introduced them, they curtsied or bowed appropriately. “Lord Admiral Bellarmie has met with the Prime Minister previously, of course, but please allow me to introduce him to Your Majesty.” The Admiral bowed. King Giovanni then greeted the Lord Admiral. “It's a pleasure to meet you,” he said, while Elisa was glad to see Bellarmie again. The Prime Minister then turned to the Prince. “Your Serene Highness, what are the latest news from Saint Mark? I hope everything is well,” she asked. “Yes, Minister. Thank you for asking. All is well in Saint Mark. We continue to expand our trade relationships. That is one reason why we are seeking even closer cooperation between our navy and yours. Domestically, we have plans to open our annual Regatta to foreign competition! I’m delighted we could arrange this visit before we head over to the rugby games.” “That is great to hear! Indeed, the visit has been great for all of us both on the personal and national levels”, Elisa noted. And Giovanni VI added, “Giovanniland would be happy to participate in your annual Regatta! I look forward to a great inauguration of the tournament for foreign competitors, and I’m sure the best Giovannilandian athletes in the sport do too.” Soon after the King’s comment, when everyone had been seated for a while, the initial part of the state dinner was served, a variety of Giovannese antipasti. “Delicious!” Prince Marcarius commented as he finished his first course. “I agree, Your Majesty,” added Lady Arlene. “... and your palace, including this sumptuous ballroom, is beautifully decorated. Were these your choices or is the decor traditional?” “Thank you! The decoration is traditional, and these frescoes date back to the time of the Giovannian Empire when Giovannese culture had its first golden age, although they have been renovated over time. After building the new capital city, Emperor Giovanni II the Great invited a few of the nation’s most celebrated artists to decorate the new imperial residence, the Palatio Smaraldo that we are currently in”, explained the King. “I noticed the Della Gratio in the entry hall alcove. There were a couple of famous artisans from Saint Mark that were invited to contribute at that time too, were there not?” noted the Prince. The King answered affirmatively, and added: “I believe Della Gratio was living in Giovanniland at the time, he is one of my favorite Markan sculptors.” “Yes, the story goes that his previous Saint Markan patron, the Duke of Remarchio, was not at all pleased with the realism Della Gratio had employed in his statue and that Della Gratio fled to Giovanniland for a time while things cooled down,” the Prince added with a smile. “Ah, those are interesting circumstances,” the King remarked. “I'm glad that in the end he could contribute to this great palace. It's truly the work of many excellent minds, including the famous Giorgio Massimiano that led the painting of the frescoes in this room,” he added. “Ah! Massimiano! Brilliant! What a genius!” gushed Lady Arlene. “Indeed,” answered the Prince. “Truly one of the greatest.” “I’m glad many people appreciate his work not only in Giovanniland but also abroad,” Elisa commented. It was then time for the various courses to be served. Firstly there was the Lasana Tropicale, a dish coming from the central region of Akallia. It builds upon the traditional Abrentan lasagna and ragù, by adding pesto sauce made with tropical nuts, such as macadamia and cashew. The second course was the Padella Giovannesa, the famous rice colored with saffron and featuring seafood. It includes shrimp, lobster, octopus, squid, mussels, clams, scallops, and fish fillet, and it’s also seasoned with the forest lavender to give a pleasant touch. For the third course, there were various complements to go with the two main dishes, including salad and cheese. For example, the traditional Insalata Amorante named after a large coastal city features tomatoes, mozzarella from water buffaloes, and a native variant of basil. Fresh tropical fruits were also available, such as mango, avocado, lychee and starfruit. Finally, all participants in the state dinner enjoyed desserts such as Tiramisù and Gelato Giovannese, the latter offered in a wide range of tropical flavors such as passion fruit, guava, watermelon, dragonfruit, papaya and tamarind. As each course was presented, the Markan delegation expressed their delight. Conversation ranged from the classic artists, to leisure-time pursuits, to current events. When the banquet was complete, King Giovanni VI led Prince Marcarius to a private study where the two could meet in private. The King and Prince then took their seats. “How are you, my dear friend?”, the King asked. “I’m quite well, Gio. This has been a lovely visit. It’s good to catch up. Thank you so much for your hospitality … and as always, for your friendship. How have you been?” “I'm also well, and I'm glad that you have enjoyed the visit! Giovanniland is doing fine in the fifth Rugby World Cup, we have now won our first match in the second match day, and it was against defending champions Dalimbar! That was incredible to watch.” “That was a great match! I was able to see the second half on television between meetings. Your young men played exceptionally well! I just hope my Lions can keep it up. They’ve done well so far, and did much better than expected last year, but we’ll see. I hope to catch the Round of 16 in person, if they make it that far.” “I wish good luck to the Lions! I think both our teams can make it to the Round of 16, and hopefully even beyond.” The King then turned to talking about recent happenings in his country. “Here in Giovanniland things are well, Prime Minister Elisa recently reached a year in office and in my opinion she is doing a very good job. Our economy has certainly seen a new boost after the treaty signed with Saint Mark and Dalimbar last year, technological services and industries are thriving with new advancements, and Giovanniland retains its steadfast commitment to environmental protection and nearly full use of renewable energy, to give a few examples.” “That sounds splendid. I’m glad to hear it. Things are humming along just as well in Saint Mark. A couple of the more militant Great Houses are still seething over the Zoranian land grab and want to retaliate, but I’ve told them in no uncertain terms that doing so would not be in our best interest and no such action will happen. There isn’t much more that they can do than huff, of course. They can’t even threaten to withhold their vote from my heir, as, I’m sure you know, I am the third consecutive Halohin to occupy the throne, so the next can’t be of my House anyway. Speaking of Zoran, have you heard any details about what’s going on there?” “Yes, I do know about a few recent developments. A new bill called the Childlessness Tax received partial consent from their Queen, and the Zoranian ambassador to Giovanniland expressed disappointment in our trade treaty with Dalimbar, but as you would expect we have a lot to gain from this trade and there are no plans to stop it.” Giovanni VI continued, “However, the most alarming news that I’ve received recently comes from Varanius. They have elected a new Prime Minister called Sarah Fim that has already caused quite a stir internally by replacing not only executive staffers but also diplomatic, military and judiciary positions, and her campaign included a promise to increase hostilities towards Giovanniland. I think we can both agree that Fim’s goals seek to very clearly destabilize the Darkesian Sea region, and that both Saint Mark and Giovanniland must cooperate against this threat, hence the importance of the recent defense meetings.” “Absolutely. The news from Zoran is as I had heard it as well. The Sisters also reported that there are some internal conflicts there, but with the post-civil-war factions vying for influence, that isn’t something one needs a psychic to figure out. I’m sure Queen Adsila will be able to keep it all together.” The Prince continued. “The Varanius situation is far more disturbing. As you know, Giovanniland has the full support of Saint Mark. That is why these planned joint naval exercises between our nations are so important, as you say. Perhaps we can also approach Zoran to see where they would stand?” “Giovanniland is of course thankful for Markan support! As for Zoran, although that could be a possibility, I don't trust them in this matter, given their stances on the Darkesian that have often stood contrary to Giovanniland's interests. I wouldn't say they are too amused with the election of Prime Minister Fim, given they also launched an investigation on her company's products due to privacy laws, but there isn't much of a reason to think they would support us either.” The King suggested, “A better alternative would be to secure the fellow Lavender Island nations' support for Darkesian stability, easy to do since Giovanniland enjoys very positive relations with them.” “Yes, that makes the most sense. Perhaps also Nagaraningrad? They’ve been generally very reasonable in the past.” “That’s possible indeed. Elsewhere in the Darkesian there’s Santos-Dominius, although I believe they will stick to their usual policy of neutrality; and also Fhaengshia, which has alright relations with us unlike Varanius, despite the tense history between it and Giovanniland.” “Yes, each of those are worth approaching. Let’s have our Foreign Affairs and Military people start working on this and then you and I can add whatever guidance and personal contacts are needed.” Afterwards, Prince Marcarius and King Giovanni VI talked about various other topics relevant to both Saint Mark and Giovanniland. In the end, both were glad to meet each other and reaffirm the two nations’ alliance, having greatly enjoyed the Markan state visit to Giovanniland.

July 5, 1424 2:16 PM Polaris Eastern Time (IAT-2) At the entrance of the Millenium Hall Red Palace, Adaikes Central, Adaikes Luke Salazar just finished accepting the credentials of the honorable ambassadors from Greiya, Candelu, and Nalibia in the Reception Hall of the Red Palace. When one of the agents of the Presidential Security Service opened the door for the Millenium Hall, he was not surprised by the presence of Foreign Affairs Secretary Anne Duncan, who reached for his hand upon entering and shaking her hand, and the Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretaries for Aura, Andolia, Doll Guldur and Nur. While Salazar was less surprised by the presence of Justice Secretary Jeffrey Searle, the President needed clarification as to why Education Secretary Zeeshan Cannon was present at the event. "Why are you here?" Salazar pointed to Cannon before taking his hand and shaking it, smiling. "We have a meeting with Anne and Jeffrey after this, Mr. President. They just invited me to join them here," Cannon scratched his head. "Is it about that International Education Summit you proposed?" Salazar asked. Cannon nodded. Salazar tapped Cannon's arm and replied, "Hey, no problem, glad you could join us." Duncan then ushered the President and the Secretaries to their seats, shaking hands with everyone they passed in the Hall. The Secretaries found their way to their seats, still standing, but when the President saw the ambassadors he just received a while ago on the opposite side of the room, Salazar went to them and shook their hands. It was only when Salazar returned to where the Secretaries were and sat down in his assigned seat that everyone in the room followed to take their seats. An officer of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) went to Duncan and asked if the Foreign Affairs Secretary could introduce the guest of honor and speaker of the event. Duncan nodded and stood up, with the PMS officer ushering her to the unmarked podium on the right side of the rostrum in front of them. Duncan briefly read the clean paper on the podium. "Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to introduce you to the President of the Federal Republic of the United Adaikes, President Luke Wilfrid Salazar." Everyone stood up and clapped. Salazar rolled his eyes at the Secretaries in jest before standing up and proceeding to the left side of the rostrum where his Podium was, the podium with the Seal of the Office of the President. "You may sit down," Salazar asked the guests of the event, "well, not really 'may', but I implore you to see reason to sit down, when I see everyone standing up and I look at my right, we have Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for Auran Affairs Ariel Gladwin still standing." Everyone chuckled. "He's already a dual citizen, at that," Salazar continued, shaking his head while smiling. Everyone knew the President would like to start talking casually at events. "He's an Adaikesian citizen, and he just became a senior citizen last week, reached the age of 60, so he's a dual citizen now!" Everyone chortled again. "But on a serious note, I'd like to thank everyone for your presence this afternoon. A while ago, I just received the credentials of Ambassador Mitake Ryoma of Greiya, Ambassador Lucchetto Parin of Candelu, and Lord Dimnah Nkechi of the Chinelo Family from Nalibia. While we wait for their own embassies to be put up, they will be holding office at our International Assembly Office we have always provided to all our ambassadors in the absence of their embassies in the country and world leaders when they are in our country for official matters. I may have to invite everyone here again next week, after I received confirmation from [House] Speaker [Kramnit-Ram] Patneg this morning that our ambassadors to be assigned to Larxia and Min-Su have been confirmed by the Commission of Appointments. "But for now, may I ask Ambassador Socorro Rowland, to be assigned in Greiya, Ambassador Thomas Sutton, to be assigned in Candelu, and Ambassador Rosalie Beck, to be assigned in Nalibia, to join me here so that I can administer your oath of office," asked Salazar, as he asked the ambassadors to stand rank in file while facing the crowd. Secretary Duncan also stood up and took the microphone another PMS officer gave her. She stood next to the President, holding the microphone near Salazar's mouth, with Salazar holding a copy of the Oath of Office. "Please repeat after me," Salazar started. "I, state your name," the President waited until the ambassadors finished speaking. "Of the Department of Foreign Affairs," "Having been appointed to the position of Ambassador of, state the country where you will be stationed," "Hereby solemnly swear," "That I will faithfully discharge to the best of my ability," "The duties of my present position and of all others," "That I may hereafter hold under the Federal Republic of the United Adaikes," "That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same," "That I will obey the laws, legal orders, and degrees promulgated," "By the duly constituted authorities of the Federal Republic of the United Adaikes," "And that I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily," "Without mental reservation or purpose of evasion," "So help me God," Salazar ended, congratulating the ambassadors. Everyone is then asked to proceed to the adjoining Banquet Hall for refreshments.

[Having gone through Aurum and recently entered Anders, the trio are in the middle of sending a support message to The Youkai and the fans.] Jeremy Clarkson: Hello, it's Jeremy. Here's Richard. Richard Hammond: Hello. Jeremy Clarkson: And here's James. James May: Hello there. Jeremy Clarkson: Now you might be wondering why we've suddenly put the camera on now. Richard Hammond: I don't think anyone's wondering that. Jeremy Clarkson: Oh. James May: Yeah, the Hertfordians. Richard Hammond: And the Jammbonians. Jeremy Clarkson: And Hertmerians. James May: Everyone who watches us sees what we do on these trips all the time. Like when Jeremy ran over Quiyakaso in that car. Jeremy Clarkson: That you and Richard sabotaged. Richard Hammond: It's strange though, it feels like we'd be using a script for all of these and yet we don't. Jeremy Clarkson: No, that is true. James May: It surprises me sometimes. Jeremy Clarkson: So anyway, shall we get back on topic? James May: Ooo yes. Jeremy Clarkson: Well then, to continue on what I asked before, we're showing this on camera now not only to you at home and whoever's watching us in this country, but also to the Hertfordshire-Jammbo rugby team. Richard Hammond: We thought it would be a good idea to send a video of support to The Youkai heading into the match with Varanius. Jeremy Clarkson: We also thought at the same time to ask all you fans at home and here in Overthinkers to offer your support too. We aren't heartless. James May: As you may know, the Hertfordshire-Jammbo rugby team is a slightly confusing and incomprehensible thing. Much like Hertfordshire-Jammbo itself and pretty much every national sporting team we have. Jeremy Clarkson: No, he's right. I mean there are both teenagers and middle-aged people in the team. Take myself for instance, I'm 54. James is 50 despite seeming 500 at times. Richard here is in his early 40s. James May: He'll probably remain 40 eternally. Richard Hammond: That doesn't sound too bad. Jeremy Clarkson: The point is, Star Breaker have a very large age range. It seems archaic, and it shouldn't by any logical measure be able to compete at the level it does. Yet somehow, a bleak yet at the same time scenic land of ice and dandelions with less than 4,000,000 people has not only cemented itself as one of Esferos' top sporting nations, but has also won multiple titles over the years. Richard Hammond: There was the T20 World Cup, and we can't forget the original Rugby World Cup. Jeremy Clarkson: Even in the Esferiad, Hertfordshire-Jammbo is consistently one of the best nations present. If there was ever a Winter Olympics, we'd probably be right at home. James May: Before recently when the Tsar and previous Prime Minister finally succeeded in putting through that law that prevented anyone too young from entering office, said previous Prime Minister - Furu, who was forced to sit in office from 10-14 years old due to political issues I won't cover here. Jeremy Clarkson: The candidate who won the election in 1419 was found guilty of a lot of corruption and as it turned out the deputy, Arthur Perebiynis, pretty much tried forcing Furu to break themselves in office and in their hobby as an artist so he could secretly rule. When Furu accepted themselves and left office when the absolute monarchy was formed, Arthur's plan failed and he tried to assassinate the Tsar directly. That failed and he's now on death row. Richard Hammond: Ouch! James May: ...Thank you Jeremy. Anyway, said previous Prime Minister somehow won gold and silver in Javelin. Richard Hammond: Makes you wonder how we can keep up with nigh-on everyone else really. Jeremy Clarkson: Let's be honest, growing up in Hertfordshire-Jammbo would make anyone at least a little resilient. War notwithstanding. James May: I knew you'd mention the war! Richard Hammond: That was terrible. We should know, we all lived through it. James May: For those from other nations who don't know, the Anglian War was a decade long civil war that started over a succession crisis, economic depression and ethnic conflict between the Hertfordians, Jammbonians and Hertmerians that sort of mirrored what happened when the Jammbonians first migrated to this area from northern Andolia in the 400s. Though that migration and conflict lasted over 100 years. Richard Hammond: Even though it pales in comparison to a century, a decade of war that destroyed the former continental powerhouse of Anglia-Jammbo originally known as Greater Anglia is still really tragic. Jeremy Clarkson: I know. The Hertmerians arguably had it worst. They were almost driven to extinction! Some say there were Hertmerians who fled for Hestmere here in Overthinkers. Some suggest Hestmere was founded by Hertmerians. Richard Hammond: To think that we're the last members of an extinct Hertmerian tribe that have been around where we live for over 2,600 years. James May: Well, technically the Merthyrni tribe still exists today if we're around. Richard Hammond: True, but you get my point. Jeremy Clarkson: We all went through that prolonged atrocity, and less than 20 years later had not only fully rebuilt an all but decimated country, but also exceeded every hope and expectation we had as a people. So if we can recover from something like that... James May: Then we can recover from something like this. This, of course, refers to the group stage. Richard Hammond: Our start to Rugby World Cup 5 was nothing short of terrible. We were smashed twice in a row by Larxia and Avadonialis. Two teams who we ought to be winning against. Admittedly, we were too busy racing to prove the usefulness of the Motorway of Death... and kind of dragged Galatea and Clarkov along for the ride. James May: Beyond that, though, I think The Youkai's turn-around has been one of the stories of the tournament. We went from being routed to beating the hosts against all odds, restricted Cambria to a 7-3 win which is really impressive if you look at their record, and swatted Rivalfiume without so much as a reply. Jeremy Clarkson: Not an attempt at a reply. Which brings us to tonight. Hertfordshire-Jammbo is facing off with Varanius. Larxia is up against Cambria. Avadonialis plays Overthinkers. To qualify, we have to win and then hope one or both of Cambria and Overthinkers does us a favour. James May: It may seem daunting, but considering the match-ups, it's not an impossibility. Richard Hammond: The greatest strength of The Youkai is their variety. They're an all-round powerhouse in general. Jeremy Clarkson: There's attack-type members such as Shizune, Reimu, myself, Karaina and Ozen. James May: We have defence-type members including Julian, Naho, Faust, me, Kirumi and Gwyn. Richard Hammond: There's also stamina-type members like Free, Lichova, Promestein, me, Tess, Brooklyn, Hanako and Tala. Jeremy Clarkson: We are slightly geared towards stamina, but the balance-types make up the majority. We have Mizore, Tarrick, Nagisa, Rin, Clarkov, Pax, Nia, Pri and Shu. James May: On the topic of stamina, the resilience of this team is its other greatest strength. It has to be, considering where we come from. Richard Hammond: Take for instance Mizore, Tarrick, Damian, Clarkov, Pax, Hanako and even the manager Hisao. They've all been through more than a fair bit, which we won't describe for privacy reasons, and they're still here. Jeremy Clarkson: As are the rest of us. The entire nation even. Then there's legends. James May: Each nation has their own legends and rising stars. Larxia, one of the teams we're battling for a place in the knockout rounds, has a young phenomenon called Eli Thorne. Now we may be biased, but no one has more sheer determination in this tournament than Tarrick. Richard Hammond: He may be on the older side, early to mid 30s I believe, but he spent the best part of 17 years looking for a cure for his comatose wife after a war-related incident in 1407, and then trying to help her amnesia when she went on a roaring rampage of revenge over her thought-to-be-deceased child, while having to handle the believed loss of said child all that time. That can not have been easy mentally. It all ended happily for him and his family, even his daughter turned out to have survived that incident. I don't see how anyone could be more determined. That's why he's become a legend in Hertfordshire-Jammbo. James May: Just like said legend and everyone else in the team, we'd like to give everything and then some into this next match, and all matches. Jeremy Clarkson: So, Night Paraders. James May: That's the nickname for the rugby fans of Hertfordshire-Jammbo in case you were confused. Richard Hammond: if you're watching this, whether you're at home or here with us, do everything you can to support The Youkai. Jeremy Clarkson: As for you guys back in Cangham, we'll try to make it for our game. We'll leave Anders for Cangham as soon as we turn off the camera. Richard Hammond: Win. Tear the Eye Cult asunder. James May: We'll see you then. Jeremy Clarkson: Take care, goodnight! [The trio turned off the camera and began the final leg of their trip through the host settlements, back to Cangham.]

[Having reached Hestmere, the trio were having issues with the technology in cars...] Jeremy Clarkson: Now, we've got some important consumer news for everybody. Um, when you go to a car showroom now, the salesman will try and sell you lots of electronic bits and bobs for your car. Here's our top tip: don't bother with any of them! 'Cause they don't work, any of them. James May: Minttooth. Jeremy Clarkson: Minttooth. James May: Minttooth never works. Jeremy Clarkson: Hammond uses it and it's like he's sitting at the bottom of a river that's frozen over. [Clarkson covers his mouth and makes a muffled sound to demonstrate what he means.] Richard Hammond: Well, to be fair, sometimes I am. Jeremy Clarkson: Shall I tell you the thing that doesn't work most of all? Voice activation. James May: Oh...! Richard Hammond: Oh that's just a shouting match with the- Jeremy Clarkson: No, 'cause you're driving along, you don't have to take your hands off the wheel, you go 'Call Richard Hammond.'. Richard Hammond: 'Collapsing suspension.'. Jeremy Clarkson: It does! ...What are you doing? It's misunderstood me. 'Call. Richard. Hammond.'. Richard Hammond: 'Deflating tyres.'. Jeremy Clarkson: That's-! It's...! [May can't help but laugh.] Richard Hammond: I didn't say that. Jeremy Clarkson: 'Reinflate tyres!'. James May: 'Calling Richard Hammond.'. [Clarkson laughs too.] Jeremy Clarkson: It's just, the problem is, is that in the olden days when I first came out, voice activation was just for the radio or for the satellite navigation, something simple. Now it's for every single feature on the car and in your life, and it has to understand every accent in all of Hertfordshire-Jammbo, so it's 'Good evening each', or 'Och Aye The New' or it's 'Hullo chaps', and it's- it just- it- it just can't cope! So if you're driving along and go 'Atrium Radio.'. Richard Hammond: 'Accessing bank account.'. [May and Clarkson break into hysterics.] Richard Hammond: No-ooo! 'Transferring funds.'. God no DON'T! James May: It's just... can you imagine the Tsar trying to use voice activation? Jeremy Clarkson: That'll end well. James May: 'Send this Miko/shrine maiden's support message via email to The Youkai.'. Jeremy Clarkson: 'Sending assassins and Clarkson after Prince Marcarius.'. [May once more bursts into hysterics.] Richard Hammond: Or better still, if Mecislavs tries to send a voicemail. Jeremy Clarkson: I'll pretend to be the Tsar for a moment - 'Send this message to the Verkhovna Anglia: I have ratified your proposal for an illegal immigrant deportation bill and will pass it into law'. Richard Hammond: 'Sending this message to the Stavka: You're all idiots and your stupid Path is ruining my day.'. [Clarkson this time laughs his metaphorical socks off.] James May: Oh, don't send that! Richard Hammond: 'Declaring war on Dalimbar.'. [All three this time laugh the hardest they ever have.] Jeremy Clarkson: I don't think voice activation is going to work any time soon.

The Wendigo by Ivar Taul In chambers draped with guilt's oppressive pall, Where stolen joys like phantoms come and fall, I sit, a wretch by specters dire possessed, Love's ghosts, a chilling, vengeful, spectral guest. She came the first, with eyes of cerulean blue, A memory of passion, fierce and true. Her touch, once fire, now sent a glacial shock, Her voice, a whisper, "Love, upon this rock..." Then came the next, with raven tresses unbound, A storm of passion on forbidden ground. Her kiss, once warmth, now left my soul bereft, Her sigh, a whisper, "Love, forever kept..." With each pale shade, a lover from the past, The embers of desire diminish fast. Their hollow eyes, with sorrow filled and keen, Reflect the wasteland where my heart has been. No warmth remains, no embers dare to glow, Just arctic silence in this spectral show. They strip me bare, each phantom, cold and white, Leaving a husk where passion burned so bright. Oh, cursed be stolen love, a fleeting dream, For vengeance walks in shadows, whispers scream. A frozen heart, a monument to sin, This is the price for pleasures I let win. The final shade approaches, veiled in mist, A lover's face, forever unkissed. My own reflection, with eyes of hollow blight, A chilling whisper, "Lost in endless night."

Polaris Clash: Teralyon prepares to face Fujai in upcoming World Cup match Teralyon's journey in this tournament has been nothing short of spectacular. With a perfect record of three wins out of three matches, they have established themselves as formidable contenders. Known for their relentless defense and dynamic offense, the Teralyon squad has displayed remarkable cohesion and resilience. Their most recent match against Nieubasria was a nail-biter, with Teralyon narrowly clinching a 5-3 victory. The game was a testament to their defensive prowess, as they managed to hold off Nieubasria's aggressive attacks. The lone try by Visnja Dvorkin and a successful conversion by Zivko Koci were enough to secure the win in a match dominated by tactical play and strategic defense. Captain Zivko Koci commented on their performance, saying, "Our team has shown great determination and teamwork. The match against Nieubasria was challenging, but we learned a lot and are excited for the challenge that Fujai presents. We are ready to give it our all." Fujai’s Strong Presence Fujai, on the other hand, has proven to be a dominant force in this World Cup. With three wins out of four matches, they have demonstrated their strength and versatility on the field. Their only loss came in their most recent game against United Adaikes, where they were defeated 8-0. This loss highlighted some vulnerabilities in their defense and offensive execution, areas they are undoubtedly looking to improve upon before facing Teralyon. Key Players and Strategies For Teralyon, star player and fly-half Visnja Dvorkin will be crucial. Rivers' exceptional kicking and playmaking abilities have been pivotal in their victories so far. Alongside him, flankers Bozhil Nikolic and Gorsl Dvorkin have been instrumental in maintaining a robust defense. Fujai’s strength lies in their all-rounded team play and tactical acumen. Scrum-half Eskild Åsheim has been a standout performer, directing plays with precision and agility. Their forward pack, led by the towering presence of lock Birk Broks, will be key in challenging Teralyon’s defense. Analysis and Predictions Rugby analysts are predicting a closely fought contest. Teralyon’s unbeaten streak gives them a psychological edge, but Fujai’s experience and depth in the squad cannot be underestimated. The battle between Teralyon’s defense and Fujai’s attacking prowess will likely be the defining aspect of this match. Analyst Vedran Nolovic noted, "Teralyon’s defense will be tested against Fujai’s strategic plays. If Teralyon can maintain their defensive solidity while capitalizing on counter-attacks, they stand a strong chance. However, Fujai’s experience in high-pressure games might give them the upper hand in crucial moments." The Bigger Picture This match is not just about the win-loss record; it’s about national pride and the spirit of competition. Both teams have showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship, making this encounter a highlight of the Fifth Rugby World Cup. As the fans eagerly await the clash, one thing is certain: the match between Teralyon and Fujai promises to be a thrilling display of rugby excellence, with both teams vying for a place in history. Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable game in the heart of Overthinkers. Watch the game Live right here with your Tarajevo+ for free with your account!

WATCH: Day 6 Pre-Match Press Conference with Mr. Taue and Mr. Kisugi By Hanako Ichinose | Public Relations Representative | 3 July 1424 (1 hour ago) Transcript: Ichinose: "Hello, everyone! Welcome to today’s pre-match press conference. My name is Hanako Ichinose, and I’m glad to be here today as part of the Mygrdiyan national team’s staff. In just a moment, I’ll be joined by both Mr. Kisugi and Mr. Taue. Members of the media -- our esteemed guests -- will have an opportunity to ask any questions that they might have for either the manager of the team or the team's coach." "With introductions out of the way, let's get right down to it!" Team Manager Tetsuya Kisugi and Coach Naofumi Taue emerge from the corner of the room and begin making their way to their seats behind the table on stage. Ichinose: "As many of you know, Mygrdiyah stands as the only undefeated team left in this year's competition. It's an exciting time for all of us, especially the players. Please give them your utmost consideration. Thank you!" The crowd of media personnel applauds before soon falling silent once again. Kisugi: "Hello! Is this on?", the man asks while tapping at the microphone in his hand and looking away towards a sound technician. "Ah, excellent. It's great to be here, and I'm glad to see so many faces in attendance as you all join us here to support the great sport of rugby and to reflect on the Mygrdiyan national team's progress thus far." "Sitting to my left is Mr. Taue; a man who's been working extremely hard for our players in preparation for the steep competition that we face from within our draw group. Please give him your best!" The crowd applauds once again before returning to anticipatory silence. Taue: "Good day, all. My name is Naofumi Taue. Thank you for your praise and introduction, Mr. Kisugi." "Now, I'm sure that some of you might have questions for me. One at a time, please. We should have time to get to everyone." A man in the second row raises his hand and a sound technician hurries over to hand him a microphone. Shimizu: "Wataru Shimizu, editor of Rugby Revolution magazine." "There’s been a lot of positivity surrounding this team as of late. After three straight wins and a day of rest, some might say that Mygrdiyah is the team to beat in group D of this year’s World Cup. How do you respond to those comments?" Taue: "Well," the man pauses. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves." "It's a lot of little things that come together in order for us to play a good game. If we can play a good game and remain competitive then more wins might follow. But our players know that I expect nothing less than their absolute best and they're always willing to give me at least that." "Team to beat? I'm not sure. Ask me again in a few days, if you would. But, right now, it's about what happens tonight when we go up against a very strong side from Naliba. With that in mind, my only expectation is we remain focused and concentrate on tonight's performance." The magazine editor sits down after Coach Taue is finished speaking and the microphone quickly shifts over to a woman sitting in the third row across the aisle from him. Nagisa: "Good day, sirs. Reika Nagisa reporting on behalf of MNN Sports." "You’ve got two of your toughest matchups still to come later on in this year’s tournament and the players won’t be getting another rest day before then. How prepared would you say that your squad is to take on the rugby giants of Dalimbar and Giovanniland?" Taue: "Rest days are important", the man said plainly. "Both for our players and for me." "For them, it's a chance to take a break from their training and allow their bodies to heal from a more grueling schedule. For me, it's an opportunity to step back and take a look at how things are shaking out in other groups. While I can't say that I've had much time to see either of those two squads in action, I was able to watch a good bit of yesterday's match between Ryxtylopia and Peourouin." "I saw some great things in that game, and it helped give me insight into how other teams are faring past the halfway point. As far as our own group with Dalimbar and Giovanniland go, I'd say that we'll need to approach both of those matchups accordingly and with care. They seem to be on the up and up as of late, as they've both picked up wins against Ostronia and Min-Su, respectively." "If we want to win those games, we can't afford to get cocky and careless. Even so, I like our chances as much as anyone else's. We'll come to play no matter the opponent." The woman thanks Mr. Taue for answering her question before sitting down and giving away the microphone. Oliverde: "Numerio Oliverde of LudoGiovanniterra here." "A little over a week ago, your team’s captain said that he and his teammates were focused on playing their game above all else and that they weren’t going to let the excitement of the moment distract from their training. From where you sit, would you say that's how things have been handled thus far?" Mr. Taue begins to nod slowly. Taue: "Yes. I can honestly say that I think Mr. Yagyu has done a great job in his current role as our team captain." "Being a leader goes beyond being the face that fans associate with an entire squad. It's about what you do for your teammates, the respect that you command in the dressing room, and being deserving of your opponents' respect as well. When players come together and put their talents towards the success of the group, well, amazing things can be achieved." "We've been getting results on the pitch, and we've even managed to surprise a few people with our play. Mr. Yagyu and his teammates know not to lean into all of that too heavily, as I've told them not to. But it certainly doesn't hurt to have the support of those who might've previously not even considered us as a team worth following. After all, those extra cheers are great for player morale." The reporter from LudoGiovanniterra scribbles some notes on a pad of paper before thanking Mr. Taue and returning to his seat. Ignatiyev: "Hi. Lazar Ignatiyev from Free State Television (FSTV). This question is for Mr. Kisugi." Mr. Kisugi perks up, almost as if he's been waiting for a question to be directed towards him. Ignatiyev: "You may not know this, but Dalimbari bookies have taken note of your team's quick rise. The sports betting sites in the Free State have been excited about it, actually. So, with that in mind, how do you feel about your team's odds in future matchups?" Taue: "Odds?", he asks while chuckling. "Well, I'm not at all a betting man myself. Gambling is actually illegal in my country, so I wouldn't know much about that. But if you're asking about how I think we'll fare, well then, I'd say it's up to the players themselves to rise to the occasion and it's up to Mr. Taue to put together a gameplan that enables them to do so." "Beyond that, everything is up to idle speculation. You would know about that, I'd imagine. So let's just see where the next few days take us." Ichinose: "As a general reminder, this question will be the last question for today's conference. Once again, thank you everyone!" Frenkel: "Hey there! Steffen Frenkel from Zhiznovsk." "I wanted to ask you, Mr. Kisugi, about how the venues of each game factor into your team's plans. Specifically, I noticed that Mygrdiyah is designated as the home team in today's match against Naliba and will be wearing their home kits as a result. But, of course, everyone is away while we're all here in Overthinkers. Well, except for Overthinkers themselves that is...", he trails off. "Anyhow, whether it's fifty thousand fans screaming in a foreign language or tens of thousands of faithful back home in Mygrdiyah supporting you, how does your squad manage to tune out the noise on a consistent basis and go about business as usual even when the pressure to stay atop group D is on?" Kisugi: "That's a good question. Thank you for asking." "As far as we're concerned, what it all boils down to is a love of the game. The people will like who they like, and they'll naturally want to chant and cheer for them. We can't control the noise that's coming in, but, of course, isn't that part of the beauty in being a fan?" "At the end of the day, we're all professionals here. Not only are we incredibly proud to be representing our country on the world stage, but we also accept the responsibility that comes with that when doing so. Sometimes we'll go into hostile territory, so to speak. When the crowd isn't on our side, it doesn't make us love the game any less. Really, that's when it comes time for our staff and our passionate fanbase to make the players feel at ease and at home. That way, even if we are away -- rather on paper or on a map -- we can carry those feelings with us in the face of new challenges."

0615 ZMT, outside of Verkhiy-Belderevsk, the 30th of June. The salty ocean spray seemed, to especially hang in the air that day, as several people gathered around a cold corpse lying at the foothill of a steep coastal bluff, seemingly having been disposed of there. The sun's light had already graced them- Such were the wonders of summer, and it wasn't long before the body was identified as that of Arseniy Kravchenko, people's managerial coordinator for Pravda TV, a prominent Zhiznovskian news network. While the fuzz conducted their own investigative work, the agency's special hound hung outside the taped-off cordon, her cool nature hiding curiosity gnashing at her best efforts to chain it. Precocious, ecclectic, with a certain distaste for authority which would've had her sacked in any other nation. Perhaps it was her luck, then, to be living on the one nation in Esferos founded on disobedience. She sat on a folding metal chair in the impromptu investigation, far colder than it would've looked like on the surface, biding her time. Meanwhile, those around her continued to work, frenzied. It was already clear that it was a homicide, but scant little information could be gleaned from the surface, and in such a high profile case, the media would surely be nipping at the opportunity to avenge one of their own. She could see the investigation pointman, Vasily Verkowski, with his head in his hands in his office, the only place in that godforsaken tent to have a fan. Whatever plans he had that day, perhaps even that week, were surely now out of the question. Her eyes quietly followed him as he left through a back "door", returning to the crime scene Some ten minutes later, a first responder approached her, dressed in their typical formal blue and red, such a colonial holdover that uniform was. Male, early 40s, judging by his accent and complexion, not native to the area, neither ring nor any marked sign of having worn one for the past year or so, either unmarried or long divorced, judging by his age and role, likely someone who can settle for a humble and modest living, free of all ambition save for his immediate surroundings, even with all the state has at his behest. Tch. "Zdrastvuj, Tovar' Bleibaum, you've been cleared to enter the scene." "Have I? Really? That bastard Vasya found it in his heart to let little old me in?" The officer sighed, clearly unready to deal with whatever sarcastic shit she was on. "Look, count yourself lucky you're being let in this time." "I don't need you letting me in, I let myself in." "Are you admitting to breaking into the scenes of active investigations?" "No comment..." The shit eating grin on her face was almost unbearable to watch, but the officer knew as well as she did that she was probably one of the few people in the country who might be able to get away with such a thing. "...Get in, Tovar' Bleibaum, I'll pray for your safety." The veiled insult didn't fly past her, but she decided to move on and let it slide, she had better things to deal with. She approached the cordon, clumsily fishing for something out of her skirt pocket. The man at the cordon's "gate" stood firm, a human wall and built accordingly. "Tovar', I'll require identification." She quietly passes him a lanyard, ratty and beaten up, yet recognisably PCIA. "Looks good", He says, handing her back her lanyard. "As usual, we'll need a quick search." Without even prompting, she raised her hands up, an A-shape, accustomed to the mundane bureaucratic routines of the agency- Understandable, given how many people tried smuggling guns onto crime scenes in the early days of the nation. Thank goodness those were long past all of them. "The hat too, Tovar' Bleibaum". Right. She'd forgotten about that. She took off her shepherd's cap, waving it in front of the man. "Want me to pull a rabbit out of there too?" "I'm afraid that'd contaminate the crime scene, Tovar' ". "Hey, who knew he hired people with a sense of humour, nice job." She said, as she daintily frolicked in, grabbing a hair net and a pair of lab gloves on the way in. The scene laid before them was gruesome, the body having been dropped some two or three dozen feet onto the rocks below. Brown hair, young, reasonably attractive, mint green suit- expensive, unreasonably so, post-mortem trauma wounds to the head and upper body by way of getting there the short way, and the smoking gun, a gunshot wound piercing his right lung. "Your boys not able to get the job done, Vasya?" She said, lifting up one of Artemij's cold, clammy hands. "Wouldn't have the pleasure of receiving you here if we did, Masha." "Ah, right." She looked around the body some more. They didn't have much to go on, but what little they did have wasn't particularly damning. They'll need to wait for autopsy, or an epiphany, whichever came first. "Stumped? Hm?" He seemed to revel in seeing that veneer of superiority of hers break down for once. "Me? Never, I just....need more time." "Of course you do, now let the actual professionals get to work" "Hey, I'll have you know I'm PCIA too, кропка." "Just get out of our way Masya." "...Sure", she said, biting her tongue. She fell into thought, as the mortuary specialists worked around her, she always found the chaotic, morbid atmosphere particularly focusing for her mind. "...Something is rotten in the state of Zhiznovsk..." "Masha, what the fuck are you talking about" "Let me think, Vasyu" 2115 ZMT, in a bar in Sel'gorod, the 30th of June. Maria sat there, swirling her drink, as a TV blared on in the background. ...Artemij Davodovich Kravchenko. Details are sparse, as investigations are still ongoing. The staff, presenters, reporters, and other members of Ruchka TV offer our heartfelt condolences to Artemij and his family, he was a close friend of the agency, and he will forever be missed. In honour of his untimely passing, we will now observe a minute of silence, to the man who brought new life into our news, our hearts, and our minds. 'If only they fucking stayed that way...' She quietly remarked to herself. This case was certainly not fucking closed. ((A huge shoutout to C418 for writing Stal, the music that inspired this rp post))

Results of the Match Day 4 of the Group Stage of RWC 5 Group A Avadonialis 8–0 Varanius Overthinkers 18–17 Rivalfiume Cambria 7–3 Hertfordshire and Jammbo Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Avadonialis 4 2 0 2 49 32 +17 3 11 2 Overthinkers 3 2 0 1 48 46 +2 2 10 3 Rivalfiume 4 2 0 2 43 35 +8 2 10 4 Larxia 3 2 0 1 34 23 +11 0 8* 5 Cambria 3 2 0 1 32 29 +3 0 8* 6 Varanius 3 1 0 2 15 24 −9 1 5* 7 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 4 1 0 3 26 58 −32 1 5* Group B Zhiznovsk 13–22 Sekiya United Adaikes 8–0 Fujai Teralyon 5–3 Nieubasria Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Fujai 4 3 0 1 52 21 +31 2 14 2 Teralyon 3 3 0 0 42 24 +18 1 13 3 United Adaikes 3 2 0 1 41 17 +24 2 10* 4 Sekiya 3 2 0 1 60 48 +12 2 10* 5 Nieubasria 4 1 0 3 32 53 −21 2 6 6 Zhiznovsk 4 1 0 3 41 75 −34 0 4 7 New Velka (NPC) 3 0 0 3 21 51 −30 0 0 Group C Nouveauterra 8–8 Arifiyyah Ryxtylopia 17–10 Peourouin Zoran 16–3 Saint Mark Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Peourouin 4 3 0 1 65 29 +36 2 14 2 Ryxtylopia 3 3 0 0 43 28 +15 0 12 3 Saint Mark 4 2 0 2 37 33 +4 1 9 4 Nouveauterra 4 1 1 2 33 35 −2 2 8 5 Arifiyyah 3 1 1 1 33 28 +5 0 6 6 Zoran 3 1 0 2 30 37 −7 1 5 7 Einherfell (NPC) 3 0 0 3 8 59 −51 0 0 Group D Nalibia 15–10 Denieria (NPC) Dalimbar 17–5 Ostronia Giovanniland 3–0 Min-Su Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD BP Pts 1 Mygrdiyah 3 3 0 0 56 3 +53 1 13 2 Nalibia 4 3 0 1 37 54 −17 0 12 3 Giovanniland 3 2 0 1 33 23 +10 2 10 4 Dalimbar 3 2 0 1 66 52 +14 1 9^ 5 Ostronia 4 2 0 2 68 49 +19 1 9^ 6 Min-Su 4 0 0 4 20 63 −43 3 3 7 Denieria (NPC) 3 0 0 3 17 53 −36 1 1 ^tie broken by virtue of (a) Head-to-head record; Dalimbar 1-0 Ostronia *tie broken by virtue of (b) highest Point difference; no head-to-head record yet

In the bars, dorm rooms, houses and waiting rooms of Zhiznovsk, its people fervently watched on, the evening news reporting on their devastating loss, trying their best to salvage what they could of their reputation, and drum up the last dregs of hope out of their people, so that they may, perhaps support what is now a new hope for the nation in these trying times. In particular, however, it played in an dacha, a very special dacha, one of few owned by the nobility which escaped revolutionary ire. Six people gathered around an old television set, dressed in their evening best. "Здравствуй, аужор мы зибралисья здесь..." An anchor stood behind a table, displaying the bright red, yet somehow drab network of one of many collective news networks. The Zhiznovskian Rugby Team, the Golden Eagles, were defeated twenty-to-nil today, by the Fujai Finokkirni, meaning Snowflakes, in a tense and exhausting game that lasted 90 minutes. We have on today, the team's Head Coach, Coach Rasul Ismaelev, and Tighthead Prop Anna Efraemevna, live to you from Overthinkers. Over to our reporter on the ground, tovar' Steffen Frenkel'. " "Thank you, Maria. Today, this packed stadium of nearly 50,000 witnessed a sore defeat for Zhiznovsk, with Fujai showcasing expectedly tight performance." The camera pans, as a figure moves into view, Coach Ismaelev, obviously tired from the proceedings of the day. Yet, he tried his very best to put on a veneer of composedness and calm. "So, coach, what do you make of this whole thing?" "I have to say, first off, that I'm still very proud of the boys and girls whom I've had the pleasure of working with. They showcased incredible performance, and went up against an RWC behemoth. Fujai has cut its teeth against some of the best in the world, time and time again, and truly earned the place where they are at right now. Put simply, I believe that they did well against overwhelming odds, and though they might have lost now, I believe that the experience they have gained here will only further allow them to beat our next opponent- Sekiya." "Coach, many have been challenging many of the appointments made to the team, stating that they believe superior players were left behind, some even going so far as to personally accuse you of bias. What do you have to say to that?" The coach looks visibly enraged, for a second "Well, I wholly encourage them to join me on the field and try this out for themselves before they go around criticising the rest of us." "We've got to find some way to spin this, Dasha." A man spoke up, at the head of the table, dressed in a black and gold suit. "Spin this? Spin this how?" Spoke another woman, flanking the first, dressed in a typical red dress. "The people of Zhiznovsk are losing hope in the Golden Eagles, we've got to find some way to coordinate on a media response to this fucking mess." The man gestures to the TV. "The more people lose hope, the less people tune into the news, the quicker this "high", this kaif decays. As the heads of the five major news collectives, surely you wouldn't want that now, would you?" Another man, dressed in red and black, spoke up, clearly mildly irked. "And what's in it for you? I assume you wouldn't risk breaking the law and the hearts of the people out of the kindness of your heart?" He speaks, with gritted teeth, his words flowing venomously. "I'm already on thin fucking ice with that incident with my son, this could mean the end of my goddamn job Fedya." The rooms falls silent for a while, before one of them, a man, clearly young, dressed in a mint green suit, pushes his chair out from the table. "I'm out." "You're fucking what?" "I'm out." The man gets up. "I'm not about to let you manipulate the media to save your fucking ego, or your fucking image Gorya." The rest look up at him, in astonishment. "Этонн?" He looks the rest of them up and down, in fervent disgust. "You ought to be fucking ashamed of yourselves, misleading the people like that. Don't you have any idea what we built this country on?" "That we built this country on, Arseniy. You spoiled brats have no right to steal our fucking valour." "And look where that valour got you." He sighs, turning. "I don't even know why I'm involving myself with this bullshit." He says, as he turns to leave. A metallic click echoes through the room, as the man turns around. "This here pistol killed the Petrov barons, Senya. It'd be a shame if it claimed another victim." The pistol, made of blackened steel and wood grips had clearly seen better days, the patina of well-use lay evidently clear over it as the light from the TV glinted off its body. He turns around, shocked, a deer in the headlights. The room watched on in horror. "You wouldn't fucking dare..." "Would I?" A single deafening report rang out across the otherwise empty room. The only person in that room apologising that day would be the young loosehead prop on the television screen.

Congresswoman Stephanie Could gently lowered herself back into her recliner, after ascertaining that her phone, eyePad, diet soda, and remote were all within arm’s reach. Since the surgery, her pain was no longer as acute, but a dull soreness still made it difficult to get around. Now pushing seventy, she still insisted on taking care of herself. Jacob called it “old Koard stubbornness”. She was adamant that he was wrong. Circumstances notwithstanding, Stephanie couldn’t help but appreciate the break from her civic duties. It was nice to wake up in the morning and only have to worry about her problems, instead of 30 million other people’s. Maybe she would pass on running for re-election. The petty committee appointment was probably the apex of her legislative career anyhow. NUP had the big-ticket appointees fully planned out for the next 10 years. As she reached for the TV remote, her other phone started ringing. Her “business” phone, the number she had given out to her constituents and claimed was a personal cell. Which, it was, but it was also a burner phone she was doing her best to ignore during her leave. Something told her that this call was important, but she knew that if she tried to go fetch that phone from the other room, it would go to voicemail before she got halfway there. Besides, she told herself, if it was truly important, Karissa had her personal— Now her personal phone rang, and it was, in fact, Karissa, her chief aide. Stephanie sighed, but picked up. “Yes?” “Ma’am.” There was an awkwardly long pause. Stephanie had never had an aide without anxiety, but she had been working with Karissa six years, and she was on a whole other level. “It’s…well, I…you see…” “Important part first, hon, context later.” “They’re trying to get the Peculiar Modes Committee together, and there’s only four of you, so…” Stephanie couldn’t believe her ears. “Why the hell do they need us to meet now?” “Well, you see, that’s why I had to, uh, well…” “You’re outside my house, aren’t you?” There was no response. Stephanie craned her neck to look out the front picture window. Karissa was there, waving sheepishly. Stephanie sighed deeply. “Come in. The door’s unlocked.” A few moments later, Karissa was significantly more settled. “So, the EV bill bounced.” “Bounced how?” “Congressman Jeffers tried to amend it very badly and everyone got so fed up they sent it back to committee.” Stephanie rubbed the bridge of her nose. This had been the only vaguely important bill to ever come out of the Committee on Peculiar Modes of Transport, and she did not like the implications of it not even making it to vote. And of course, things would go awry when she was in no position to do anything about it. “So what now?” she asked, to buy time to think as much as anything. She knew what now. “Well, the committee has until the end of general session to reconvene and produce a new draft of the bill…it should really be a couple weeks before though, so that there’s actually time to get it on the agenda…but it’ll take two weeks probably to get the meeting scheduled…” “Is it really so urgent,” Stephanie interjected, “that you had to pull me in while I’m laid up?” “I think so, ma’am. The other Congresspeople couldn’t care less, but your office phone’s been ringing nonstop. I think one of the quote-unquote ‘watchdog’ outlets name dropped you? But people from all over are mad about this.” All of a sudden, a new thought entered Congresswoman Stephanie Could’s mind. In a way, it was funny how her intentionally irrelevant position was suddenly at the center of the session’s hot-button issue. Maybe her legislative career hadn’t peaked yet after all. Very few people could say that they got a bill out of bureaucratic purgatory. “Karissa? How much time is left in the session?” “Forty-one days.” “I’ll be back in two weeks. That gives us nearly a month to get this through.” “So we’re making it happen?” Excitement briefly eclipsed Karissa’s nervous energy. She had been in the Dome long enough to know the significance of pulling this off. “Absolutely we are,” Stephanie said, daring to crack a smug grin. “You have my calendar. Get a committee meeting scheduled for three weeks from now. Then, get ahold of that amendment, and transcripts of the floor debate. We’ll have the new draft half written before I set foot back in Aurum.” Karissa stood at attention and bowed. “I swear it shall be done.” She promptly saw herself out the door. Moments later, Jacob entered. He glanced back out the window at Karissa power-walking to the nearest bus station. “Don’t tell me you’ve been working, now,” he teased. “Such is the burden of public service,” Stephanie shrugged. “Now, can you go find my work phone and chuck it into the pool, or something?” ~

Saint Mark vs Ryxtylopia - The Highlights After the usual ads the transmission began, as both teams lined up for their national anthems, Ryxtylopia dressing the green and blue shirt this time, whilst the stands were filled by a overwhealmingly markan crowd, as both teams shook hands and prepared for the match. Once again for this match, Pablo Virriscayda would be comentating. As preparations for the match finalized, the game got underway; in the end Tivarra had decided not to make any changes to the roster. "Annnd... Ryxtylopia won the coin toss, apparently- yep they're starting by kicking off. Ladies and gentlemen we currently have SAINT MARK! vs RYXTYLOPIA! Live from Overthinkers, on TVNC." Ryxtylopia would start by kicking off, commencing the match. KICK OFF: Ryxtylopia starts off by probing the markans with advances forward before passes back, certainly more agressivley than in the game against Zoran, but the first 5 minutes prove uneventful. "And... KICK OFF! SAINT MARK VS RYXTYLOPIA HAS COMMENCED! LETS GO PIRATES!" 6 Minutes in... (0-0) Ryxtylopian Loosehead prop: Pailo Darrias spots a good opening in the markan defense and attempts to go in for a try, but the markans were quick on their heels, as left-wing Celerio Blitzen turned around and tackled Darrias before regaining possetion and passing the ball safeley away. "Its Darrias, Darrias, Darrias, Darrias, DARRIAS, DARRIAS! DARRIAAAAAAAAAAAAS! ANNNNND TACKLEEE!!!! Amaizing maneuver by Celerio Blitzen leaves Darrias on the floor! Saint Mark Regains possetion!" 18 Minutes in... (0-0) The first big chance for the Lions came in the 18th minute after a ruck ending in their favor lead to the ball being in possetion of markan blindside flanker: Marcarius Hightower who began a counterpush from the markan side, then passing to markan 2nd row player: Donovan Elkhart who before being able to pass or run through any gaps was quickly tackled by ryxtylopian inside centre: Guilbirto Tivaña, who was able to pass the ball away clearing Ryxtylopia from any trouble. "Marcarius for the markans, they are moving up on the lines, Marcarius to Donovan, Donovan, they are pushing they are pushing; Its close! Annnnd Tackle! A Tackle by Tivaña, Ryxtylopia regains possetion!" 25 Minutes in... (0-0) Another big chance for Ryxtylopia happens in the 25th, as after a good pass from openside flanker Marco Xilta the ball ends in the hands of Guivina Divarra, who carries the ball nearly to victory before being tackled by markan outside centre: Colin Rahl, however after the tackle the markans fail to cover ryxtylopian hooker: Andreís Guilbirto, who was behind Divarra, and opportunistically grabbed the ball before the markans did, nearly scoring a try. Only the quick reaction from markan fullback: Blaze Emberfell saved the markans from conceding, as they tackled Guilbirto and got the ball safeley away. "Xilta... Xilta to Divarra, Divarra is through, Divarra is running, she's taking the train straight for the markan side of the field, Divarra... Tackle! It- WAIT ITS GUILBIRTO, GUILBIRTOOOOOOOO- TACKLE!! The Markans have once again saved themselves, this time by the hand of Blaze Emberfell!" 31 Minutes in (0-7) But as time on the first half of the game started to run low, the ryxtylopians opened the score after a maul that favored them, leading to the ball being passed to ryxtylopian number 8: Quista Farris who started a good series of passes with Huilchica, before Huilchica passed to Darrias near the edge of the field, from there Darrias passed next to markan right wing: Christopher Dancer who was positioned to anticipate a try by Huilchica, leading to Darrias scoring the try. In the following conversion kick, Huilchica scored, giving ryxtylopia a 7-0 lead. "The ball for Quista Farris! Farris to Huilchica, Huilchica to Farris, Farris to Huilchica, Huilchica can score! Annnd... BALL TO DARRIAS, DARRIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASSSSSSSS, SCOREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!! Ryxtylopia has scored, Amaizing maneuver by Huilchica, Farris and Darrias!" "Its now Huilchica to score the conversion, Huilchica... Kick annnnnd... SCORE! Huilchica scored the conversion kick! Its now Saint Mark 0, Ryxtylopia 7!" HALF TIME (0-7) The rest of the first half was just a mix of ryxtylopian pushes, and markan counter attacks, both being unable to get any other major chances to score throught the rest of the first 40 minutes. With the ref's whistle being blown, both teams went to cool off and re-organize. "Its Palmiras annnd, Half time! Ladies and Gentlemen Ryxtylopia winning against Saint Mark in this intense match that currently stands 0-7 in favor of the Pirates! We'll be back soon after the ad break." 59 Minutes in... (7-7) After the break the markans had more luck with their counter attacks, which bore fruit in the 59th minute of the game, when following a ruck, markan lock: Donovan Elkhart spotted a gap left by ryxtylopian outside centre: Rinaco Patochá, and passed to markan hooker Welhelo Saylor who took advantage of the gap, with Ernysto Rivas the fullback for Ryxtylopia being unable to tackle him, leading to the markans scoring, with Baxtor Goldwash, Saint Mark's loosehead prop; converting. "We have Donovan for the markans, he is through the line through, Donovan in to Welhelo, passing Rivas! Annnnd... SCORE! Saint Mark Scores! Thanks to Donovan and Welhelo!" "And now it will be Baxtor to score the conversion, its here Baxtoooooooooooooor, SCORE! Saint Mark has scored the conversion and the match is now level 7-7!" 63 Minutes in... (7-7) The ryxtylopians didn't give up however and in the 63rd minute a chance to slip between markan fly half: Nelson Saint Mark and inside centre: Rudolph Centerman was taken by Guivina Divarra, but after being surrounded by the rest of the markan defense she opted to attempt a drop goal, which straved off the left post. "Divarra, OH! DIVARRA IS THROUGH! But she may get tackled soon as sh- SHE TRIES THE DROP GOAL ANNNND- MISS! Divarra has nearly missed! The game will remain tied for the time being!" 67 Minutes in... (7-14) After Divarra's miss it didn't take too long for Ryxtylopia to score once again, as after a good pass from blindside flanker: Armando Mataña, Huilchica got possetion, before passing to Guilbirto, ran straight at the markan side before turning around to pass to ryxtylopian tighthead prop: Mirta Palmiras who scored the try, after avoiding Emberfell. Following this Divarra scored the conversion bringing the game 7-14 in the Pirate's favor. "Mataña! Mataña to Huilchica, Huilchica's in the markan's side its now to Guilbirto! Guilbirto is through! Guilbirto has hit the gas! Its Guilbirtoooooo- PALMIAR ITS PALMIRAS AND SCOOOOOOOOOORE!!! Ryxtylopia has scored thanks to Guilbirto and Palmira's coordination!" "Now Divarra to convert, ladies and gentlemen, Divarraaaaaaaa- SCORE! Divarra has scored the conversion! This brings up the game 7-14 in favor for the Pirate!" 72 Minutes in... (7-14) After a pass forward ryxtylopian scrum half: Ferrán Lisquerva, Saint Mark were awarded a scrum, which they took advantage of to counter push the ryxtylopians, with good passes between Donovan Elkhart and John Evermore, that nearly ended in a try, however Right-Wing Avilita Mataña tackled Evermore as he approached the line, allowing Rivas to take possetion and carry the ball away. "Its a scrum... Saint Mark regain possetion! its now to Donovan, Donovan to John, John to Donovan, Donovan to John, John to Donovan, and again to John the markans are close annnd- Tackle by Mataña! And Rivas takes possetion for the pirates!" 78 Minutes in... (10-14) As the match neared its end the markans got one final chance to close the score in the 78th, when following a ruck on their side, markan blindside flanker: Marcarius Hightower was able to run past the first 2 ryxtylopian lines nearing the defense before passing to a surrounded Baxtor Goldwash who in that quick succession of passes achieved a beautiful drop goal, stunning the ryxtylopian backline, and closing the gap between the score in the dying minutes of the match. "Ryxtylopia is nearing victory ladies and gentlemen! Its now Marcarius Hightower for Saint Mark, the markans are on the counter now, they've passed both Xilta and Farris! its Marcarius, attention Marcariuuuuuuus to Bruno! Drop- n' SCORE! Saint Mark has scored a beautifully executed drop kick by the hand of Marcarius Hightower and Bruno Goldwash!" FULL TIME (10-14) However that drop goal in the 78th would be the last scored in the game as the Lions fell to the Pirates with the final score remaining 10-14, as the match ended both sides shook hands and the rytxylopians went back to the dressers as the heavily markan crowd left the stadium. "Annnd- FULL TIME! RYXTYLOPIA HAS WON! Ryxtylopia has achieved its first victory against Saint Mark in a Rugby World Cup! In a match we all anxiously waited for." "This match has seen a lot of hits by ryxtylopia at the markan side only to be counter attacked by the markans, it has been intense but in the end the pirates were able to prevail, once again big thanks to Overthinkers for allowing TVNC to host this signal to you the viewers!" "But this marks the end of todays match, thanks for watching, and we hope you tune in soon for: RYXTYLOPIA VS PEOUROUIN!" The Transmission ends.

Peourouin National Rugby Team Coach Predicts A Strong Contender in Upcoming Matchday by 于李蟒 Yu Limang, Andolian Sports Correspondent Yu Hello Kaimang! How have you been doing? Is the team well? Any new upcomings since leaving for the tournament? Jiang Hello Limang, it’s great to see you and thank you for having me. I am feeling ecstatic for the next match, Ryxtylopia, which is the group leader in our grouping. I’ve been extremely proud of our proud ladies and boys on and off the field. Definitely a shock to newer members of the team, but everyone is getting along, and it’s grown into this massive family that I don’t think words can express how amazing the team is. Yu I’m so glad you’re just as excited as some of the fans here at home. I bet your work has paid off? Jiang Immensely! Our first match against Ariffiyah resulted in a 17-7 win for Peourouin, some close calls but not even light fatigue was shown in the post-game routines. Second match against Einherfell, a quick sweep 31-5 win. And not to mention the game yesterday against Nouveauterra. A new team but also very seasoned, only a 7-0 win. They’re quite the defensive team, so there were some heated fumbles and only one minor sprain to Lín (林) but he’s still being his unwavering self even sitting out. No major injuries or players forced to leave—just so grateful. Yu Yes, very glad he’s being himself and tell him to rest up. Up next is the match with Ryxtylopia—which you mentioned earlier—many rugby afficionados have said RXY plays much more balanced and with the team’s current strategy, could cause for a possibility for the first loss for the team. What do you say to those speculations? Jiang We as a team collective acknowledge our more offensive playstyle, but we’re not afraid to set up and dig in if RXY decides to play more aggressively. But we’re optimistic that whatever happens will happen and we gave the play our best and fair chance.

< Previous: The Beremean Golden Age | Next: The Ardala Khanate > Late Classical & Early Medieval Era - the Ulerge Khanate The initial history of the Ardala and Ulerge civilizations. The later Classical Age was important for the Ardala and Ulerge, since both made massive territorial expansion and development of new cities during this period. The Ardalans expanded to the east of their initial lands in the mouth of the Ikh-usu River, notably founding the magnificent Altan-qota or the Golden City, which would then serve as the capital of the Ardala Confederation founded in 453 BF. Meanwhile, the Ulerge civilization expanded in various directions in relation to their core territory in the upper Irto River valley, leading to the formation of the Western and Eastern Leagues in 429 BF that would soon fight for control of the Ulergean lands. After a few decades, the Western League won the conflict in 361 BF and set to expand the Ulerge civilization's territory even more. By the end of the 3rd century BF the Ulerge reestablished contact with the Ardala, which had recently expanded up to the right bank of the eastern Nia River during the golden years of the Ardala Confederation. No longer separated by the Boriorto Mountains, the two peoples started to more closely trade with each other, although given their common origin, leaders of both civilizations wished to one day see the two unified once more. This came to fruition when Bilgüün Khan of the Ulerge founded the Ulerge Khanate in 187 BF and began to conquer the Ardalan cities, finishing his campaign and unifying the two peoples in 125 BF after capturing Altan-qota, a happening that marks the start of the Middle Ages in the region. The next two centuries saw the zenith of power for the Ulerge Khanate, especially after the conquest of the Bereme and Inte in 42 AF during the reign of Abargha Khan, overthrowing the native twenty-fourth dynasty (25 BF-42 AF). Although the Bereme had enjoyed a brief recovery after the fall of their empire, natural disasters such as severe droughts caused further unrest between different dynasties aiming for power, and this made the conquest by the Ulerge easier. The height of Ulerge power was reached under Abargha (reigned 29-60 AF) and his two sons, Buyan (reigned 60-75 AF) and Oktai (reigned 75-98 AF), a time during which the khanate enjoyed prosperity. Their control of the mountain passes to the south allowed trade with the Emüne, which were in their golden age at the time, since they earned a lot of wealth from trade to the north with the Ulergeans and south with the Golbans. However, the Ulerge khans were also known for their brutality as rulers, and other ethnic groups such as the Ardala and Bereme were oppressed by them. Aided by a succession crisis in 130 AF, the Bereme rebelled and restored native rule for the next two hundred years. The failure by the Ulerge Khanate to successfully reestablish control over the Beremean lands, coupled with weaker rulers, resulted in an Ardalan revolt in 241 AF, starting the Boreandolian Civil War. The Ardala and Ulerge then fought for control of the eastern lands, while in the west, the Bereme divided themselves over whether to support the Ardalans or to remain independent. The former faction prevailed, and an alliance was forged between the Ardala and Bereme peoples, winning the war in 283 AF to found the Ardala Khanate. In return for their support, the alliance's leader and first khan Erdene granted the Beremeans a higher level of autonomy within the new state, whereas the Ulerge royal family and their allies were executed.

His Serene Highness, Marcarius, Prince of the Holy Principality of Saint Mark Prince Marcarius looked in the mirror as Clarkson, his valet brushed his shoulders. The Prince always enjoyed these trips to Giovanniland. Not only were they close allies, but he had developed a strong friendship with their king through the years. The Giovanniland State Dinner was to begin in thirty minutes, capping what had been another delightful visit. He didn't have far to travel, as both his apartments and the dinner were located in The Palatio Smaraldo (Emerald Palace), King Giovanni VI's official residence. It was a beautifully constructed structure, and its furnishings were at once elegant and comfortable. Four days ago, his entourage had arrived in Porto Violeto. The next day, he and Lord Admiral Bellarmie toured the naval base, while Lady Arlene, Sir Aston, Lady Phyllis, and the Dashers took in a sail around the harbour. Later, they all met at a delightful restaurant housed in a seaside villa where they were treated to an amazing Abretan pizza followed by a sublime seafood risotto. On the following day, he had been occupied by several very productive trade and defense meetings. Yesterday, everyone enjoyed a private tour of The Museo Nationale, Giovanniland's exquisite display of its treasures, history, and culture. Tonight, the visit culminated in the State Dinner, and tomorrow he would leave for the rugby tournament. He hoped his Lions would continue their streak and that he could relax and cheer on some exciting play.

"What a game! The Saint Mark Lions win their second match of the tournament with one of the best defensive performances you will ever see in a rugby match. Centerman and Rahl were unstoppable! Nouveauterra pounded the tryline with their big hitters for 10 minutes in the second half and with 13 men the Lions held firm to secure the match with a final try from Celerio. An incredible effort from Sir Rahl's men!" Hugo Dasher turned off the replay and sighed. He was thrilled that his team had won again ... and this time against a very good team, but he missed being in the middle of it more than he had thought he would. The wedding plans were going well, of course, and the big day was only a month away now, but Emily and Lady Phyllis were handling most of the arrangements anyway. He longed to be on the pitch, making the difficult tries. ... and Celerio ... sheesh! What a racer! Would he even be able to return to his old spot after the wedding? He didn't want to think about it.

Stress and Mockery Tivarra was in the hotel's elevator, going down as the elevator played some classical music, however he wasn't too calm, rather the opposite, he was stressed, still having in mind his team's apparent inability to score drop goals, and the bad conversion rate. [Tivarra]: No... No... No... NO! Aghhh... Whilst crossing words off his list he'd break the pencil he was using, pretty angrily as he waited for the elevator's door to open, as he exited the elevator, visbly frustrated he came across his team's outside centre: 22-year old Rinaco Patochá, wearing a top hat he had bought... somewhere, and using an umbrella as a cane. [Patochá]: Good evening, boss. [Tivarra]: Ugh... Rinaco... what are you up to now, can't you see im stre- [Patochá]: Well, if im going to be honest i thought: since we are going to face the Lions of Saint Mark, it would be rather inapropriate to go out on or normal attire, and instead try for something more, "visually appealing". Said Rinaco in a stereotipically posh mockery of the markan tounge. At this Tivarra was not amused. [Tivarra]: Come on, now is not the time for mockery, also where did you even get that top- y-you know what, nevermind, i have to plan out our strategy for this game, you'll be in as usual, im considering hav- [Patochá]: But boss, if i would be so polite as to point out, we've been "perfecting our art" recently and i say: ive been getting oversaturated by all the back-breaking labor, it would be an appreciated change to try something new. Said Rinaco continuing the "posh" mockery. [Tivarra]: If you were in my place you would understand how stressful it actually is, you played decently but im still baffled by some of the others, Palmiras had me on edge. The two entered the hotel's restaurant, where the rest of the team was already eating, passing by the tables before being stopped by the team's captain: Riberto Huilchica. [Huilchica]: Hey boss! [Tivarra]: What is it now? [Huilchica]: I was wondering if you would play Quista over Diavarra today, i mean you still haven't told us the plan... [Tivarra]: If im going to take someone out of the team its going to be Palmiras, im not in the best mood. Patochá approaches Huilchica and still using the posh accent would very obviously whisper on his ear: [Patochá]: I am terribly sorry to have to approach it by this manner, but it seems as if our boss is having a rather awful day if im honest. [Tivarra]: I heard that... [Huilchica]: Awh, come on boss, i know you've always suffered from stress, plus we did pretty great against Zoran, who says stuff against Saint Mark wont go as planned? [Patochá]: Unfortunatley Zoran tis not Saint Mark. [Tivarra]: Patochá, cut it with the accent already! Ugh, but like he said, Zoran isn't Saint Mark. [Huilchica]: I think the reason Patochá is acting that way is beacause he is NOTICING, you are stressed. Boss you always take stuff to seriously, yesterday we had to practice for hours, so since we already went through that moment of hard work, how about a bit of rest? I mean as a player i can speak for the team and we're usually not very happy with getting up at 5' to have to go train. [Patochá]: Tis is correct. [Tivarra]: And how do you want me to- [Huilchica]: Just relax!! Like actually take a break man, or be more light hearted like Patochá here, you haven't even ate since in the morning! [Tivarra]: Ugh, i hate to admit it but ill concede it to you this time, you're right, i could really do with some food. [Huilchica]: Those things help you keep a better mood! So just order something already and worry AFTER the match, not before, we'll be just fine. [Tivarra]: Maybe you're right, what's on the menu- As the two walked while chatting they saw Patochá and a small crowd of the younger players talking. [Patochá]: Theese hats are actually kinda comfy, what if we don't all go buy some more and wear them at the match?! The markans will be in awe at our level of sophistication! [Tivarra]: He just can't stop that can he? [Huilchica]: Maybe earlier he could but now... yeahhhh... he's too deep into that. The two chuckle before heading to a table.

By Yusuke Sato ASAHI, MINSU - The sacred icon of Fujimo-no-Mikoto, the revered deity of death, is set to conclude its three-day benediction ritual at Toyoda Grand Shrine in the Empire of Minsu. The final ceremonies are scheduled to end at 3 AM Minsu Standard Time (MST), marking the culmination of a deeply spiritual and momentous event for Gaoist faithful. As the final hours of the ritual approach, thousands of Gaoist adherents have gathered at Toyoda Grand Shrine to partake in the closing ceremonies. The shrine grounds are illuminated by lanterns, creating a serene and reverent atmosphere. Pilgrims from all corners of Minsu and even from Giovanniland have come to witness this significant event, demonstrating the profound connection and shared faith between the two regions. In the early hours of the morning, the Principal Paragon of the Kannushi will deliver the final sermons and preachings to the gathered faithful. The sermons will draw from the sacred Zenith Scroll, focusing on themes of life, death, and the eternal guidance of the Gao. The Principal Paragon's words are expected to inspire and comfort the faithful, reinforcing their spiritual commitment and reverence for Fujimo-no-Mikoto. The closing ceremonies will include traditional kagura dances performed by shrine maidens, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between humans and kami. These dances will be followed by a grand purification rite, involving the sprinkling of sacred water and the burning of incense to cleanse and bless the participants and the shrine itself. As the ritual draws to a close, a formal turnover ceremony will take place. The Principal Paragon, along with other high-ranking members of the Kannushi, will present the icon of Fujimo-no-Mikoto to the Giovannese priests from Ukeda Shrine. This ceremony symbolizes the unity and mutual respect between the Gaoist communities of Minsu and Giovanniland. Following the turnover, the icon will begin its journey back to Giovanniland. It will pass through several cities, including Aquaviola, where additional ceremonies and public veneration events are planned. This sacred tour allows more Gaoist adherents to pay their respects and receive blessings from Fujimo-no-Mikoto. The icon's eventual return to Ukeda Shrine in Karlopole will be marked by a grand welcoming ceremony, celebrating the successful completion of its journey and the strengthening of spiritual ties between Minsu and Giovanniland. The benediction ritual and the icon's journey highlight the deep spiritual and cultural connections within the Gaoist faith. This event not only reinforces the shared beliefs and practices of Gaoist communities but also fosters a sense of global unity and spiritual solidarity. As the sacred icon of Fujimo-no-Mikoto departs from Minsu, the faithful look forward to the continued blessings and spiritual enrichment that this revered symbol brings, further deepening their connection with the divine and with each other.

FSTV-1: Start of Broadcast Day Continuity Announcer: Good morning Dalimbar. You are watching FSTV-01. Today is June 27, 1424. Please rise for the Hymn of Dalimbar. Hymn of Dalimbar Verse 1: From distant shores and tempest's might, We sailed through storm and darkest night, To Dalimbar, our promised land, Where now we make our final stand. Chorus: Oh, Dalimbar, noble and grand, With honor, we protect our land, Our Path, our guide, through night and day, In loyalty, we’ll always stay. Verse 2: With strength and courage, hearts of steel, For Dalimbar, our fervent zeal, From chaos born, a nation streams, United by our steadfast dreams. Chorus: Oh, Dalimbar, noble and grand, With honor, we protect our land, Our Path, our guide, through night and day, In loyalty, we’ll always stay. Verse 3: Through trials faced and triumphs won, We'll fight until the battle's done, In every dawn, your promise lies, Beneath our proud and steadfast skies. Chorus: Oh, Dalimbar, noble and grand, With honor, we protect our land, Our Path, our guide, through night and day, In loyalty, we’ll always stay. V:erse 4 From generations yet to come, They'll hear the beat of Dalimbar's drum, With iron will, we’ll always say, For Dalimbar, we’ll proudly stay. Гимн Далимбара Куплет 1: С далеких берегов и могучих бурь, Мы плыли через шторм и тьму, В Далимбар, обещанную землю, Где мы сейчас стоим в последний раз. Припев: О, Далимбар, благородный и великий, С честью мы защищаем нашу землю, Наш Путь, наш путеводитель день и ночь, В верности мы всегда будем. Куплет 2: Со силой и мужеством, сердца из стали, Для Далимбара, наша горячая ревность, Из хаоса рожденная, нация течет, Объединенная нашими стойкими мечтами. Припев: О, Далимбар, благородный и великий, С честью мы защищаем нашу землю, Наш Путь, наш путеводитель день и ночь, В верности мы всегда будем. Куплет 3: Через испытания и победы, Мы будем сражаться, пока битва не закончится, В каждом рассвете твое обещание лежит, Под нашими гордыми и стойкими небесами. Припев: О, Далимбар, благородный и великий, С честью мы защищаем нашу землю, Наш Путь, наш путеводитель день и ночь, В верности мы всегда будем. Куплет 4: Из поколений, которые еще придут, Они услышат биение барабана Далимбара, С железной волей мы всегда будем говорить, Для Далимбара мы будем гордо стоять. Gimn Dalimbara Kupet 1: S dalyokikh beregov i moguchikh bur', My plyli cherez shtorm i t'mu, V Dalimbar, obeshchannuyu zemlyu, Gde my seychas stoim v posledniy raz. Pripev: O, Dalimbar, blagorodnyy i velikiy, S chest'yu my zashchishchaem nashu zemlyu, Nash Put', nash putevoditel' den' i noch', V vernosti my vsegda budem. Kupet 2: So siloy i muzhestvom, serdtsa iz stali, Dlya Dalimbara, nasha goryachaya revnost', Iz khaosa rozhdennaya, natsiya techyot, Ob"yedinennaya nashimi stoykimi mechtami. Pripev: O, Dalimbar, blagorodnyy i velikiy, S chest'yu my zashchishchaem nashu zemlyu, Nash Put', nash putevoditel' den' i noch', V vernosti my vsegda budem. Kupet 3: Cherez ispytaniya i pobedy, My budem srazhat'sya, poka bitva ne zakonchitsya, V kazhdom rassvete tvoye obeshchanie lezhit, Pod nashimi gordymi i stoykimi nebesami. Pripev: O, Dalimbar, blagorodnyy i velikiy, S chest'yu my zashchishchaem nashu zemlyu, Nash Put', nash putevoditel' den' i noch', V vernosti my vsegda budem. Kupet 4: Iz pokoleniy, kotorye yeshche pridut, Oni uslyshat bienie barabana Dalimbara, S zheleznoy voley my vsegda budem govorit', Dlya Dalimbara my budem gordo stoyat'. Continuity Announcer: Praise be to Dalimbar and our ancestors. May we keep to the Path. Here is the schedule for today....

TVNC - Railo's Rage The transmission would start with Railo and Tixica arguing at the table, while Eiva tried calming them both down. [Railo]: You have to pay up! We both agreed to it! [Tixica]: I thought it was a joke! [Railo]: Why would i joke about money?! I rareley do jokes at all in this program! [Eiva]: Guys... camera's rolling... [Railo]: Oh, hello viewers, welcome back to TVNC, where today i tell Tixica to pay up the money he owes me from the bet we made earlier before the two semifinal matches... [Tixica]: But... [Eiva]: RAILO! What sort of introduction was that?!?! [Railo]: Ive had enough of him, all his crying his unprofessional attitude, when we were matching both matches he screamed every time Zoran scored! He knew by the 60th he was loosing the bet and he still decided to refuse to pay it! [Tixica]: I meant it as a joke!! [Railo]: I know you're goofy, but i would've paid my part if i had lost, this is too far Tixica. [Eiva]: Calm down both of you! [Tixica]: But im not paying him, i wanted the money for a gym membership!! [Railo]: Ooooh, really???? Then let me make a joke: You should move to Teralyon! [Tixica]: That's the attitude! See its nothing much! [Railo]: I had to hold up with your schenanigans throught the match, you do that every time and since im your friend i thought id hold up with it but now im at my limit! Pay up!! [Tixica]: I think as a good friend its time i put a stop to your tyranny in this program! I will never pay the bet! [Eiva]: Tyranny? [Railo]: What are you on about now? [Tixica]: You've long oppressed freedom of expression in this program and made us do what you tell us and im not fine with that! I will not stand for the opression of my people and the opression of poorly executed jokes! [Eiva]: Ugh, can't we just move on to the match at this point? [Railo]: What do you mean?! [Tixica]: Yeah! You are a poopy poo-face tyrant that is against jokes! [Railo]: Poo-face?! How old are you 6??! [Eiva]: Aghhh- So about the Overthinkers' team- [Tixica]: No more will i stand for your opression! I will fight! [Eiva]: At this rate this is going to go viral on the internet... Tixica would grab one of the empty snack bowls putting it on his head before putting one of his legs on a chair posing all heroic whilst pointing at Railo. [Railo]: Out of all your jokes here, this has to be the most ridiculous... [Tixica]: Tell that to my face big nose! [Railo]: BIG NOSE?! [Eiva]: Woahhhhh, Tixica calm down. [Railo]: Right that's it get off the table! [Tixica]: Over my dead body big nose! [Railo]: Right get over here you ill take my money! [Tixica]: Never! Railo would start to run after Tixica, visibly incredibly mad. [Railo]: JUST GET OFF THE SET! [Tixica]: NEVER!! ZORAN I HATE YOU ZORAN, I HATE ALL ZORANIANS, THEY RUINED MY DAY THEY RUINED MY FRIEND. [Eiva]: WOAH, WOAH- CUT! CUT! CUUT! CUUUUUUT!! [Tixica]: ZORAN WHY'D YOU THIS TO MY FRIEND- [Eiva]: CUT CUT!!! [Cameraman]: Stop! cut the tranmission! quick cut it! cu- Suddenly the screen would pause for a moment as the screen goes static, ending the short lived yet intense transmission.

DOH releases preliminary list of highways to receive funding from BRAVO Act Updated 6 June 1424 Department of Highways Director Collard G. Denhim has published a statement celebrating the progress of the BRAVO Act, which designates a large portion of electric vehicle charging station taxes to the DOH. “We are encouraged by the new progress made on Bill 31306,” Denhim said. “The potential revenue allocated to the DOH will allow us to undertake a number of projects that we hitherto could not for lack of funding….We urge all our legislators to see this act is passed.” The director also published a preliminary priority list, identifying specific proposals that the department will be able to approve upon receiving this new funding. The list is an example and is subject to change based on exact cost and unforeseen factors. The proposed projects include: Realignment of Highway 125 near Foren to better accommodate cargo traffic Widening Highway 081 south of Worth, making it four lanes Construction of new high-capacity bridge on Highway 332 between Hestmere and Ligon Construction of new highway, beginning in Owen and connecting to Highway 270 west of Zoewey Realignment of Highway 013 to bypass Exvia Repairs to the Whetter Bridge in Hestmere “We are excited to see the trends in personal vehicle use in Overthinkers, but that means we need to be that much more diligent in maintaining our highway system,” Denhim noted. “We are sorely aware of the amount of overdue maintenance we currently face. The passing of the BRAVO Act will be a great help in our catching up.” Director Denhim’s full statement can be read here.

Economy of Giovanniland Giovanniland has an advanced mixed economy with a GDP totalling $1,406,647,221,920 and ranked as the fourth largest in Esferos. Due to the Giovannilandian policies of social democracy and welfare state, 48.2% of the national income goes to government spending, a total of $678,003,960,965 or $23,136 per capita. The national economy is highly diversified, featuring services as 71% of the economic output, while industries account for 27%, and the remaining 2% is generated by primary activities, all backed by the national currency called Abrio (𝒜), whose conversion rate is 1 international dollar for each 1.6 Abrios. The labor force is defined as all the population between 18 and 65 years old, and estimated to be 18,734,995 according to the latest national census, with an unemployment index of only 2% due to extensive welfare and social policies. Primary and secondary sectors The logos of Avvento and Ekoprodutti. Avvento is a primary sector company focusing on wind power, while Ekoprodutti is a secondary sector company that manufactures environmentally friendly products. For much of its history, Giovanniland's economy relied on tropical agricultural and manufacturing goods. Both the Abrentan and Lavandulan civilizations regarded trade as very important for their national development, and it was this relation that allowed both cultures to grow closer and form the Giovannian Empire, which brought an economic revolution to Lavender Island. During the imperial era, a period of prosperity came to the island due to the diverse goods brought in by the trading posts and routes established around Esferos, and the agricultural and mining riches earned from the Andolian colonies. The decline of the Giovannian Empire forced the nation to adapt to a new era, and during the late 12th and early 13th centuries, the Industrial Revolution was brought from Saint Mark and was fully complete throughout the country by 1260. Continued economic growth has happened most often since then, allowing for the nation's development in other spheres such as society and infrastructure. Despite the decrease in relative importance for external trade after the Industrial Revolution, agriculture and mining still provide a backbone for the nation's industries and services. Agriculture is currently estimated to contribute around 1% of GDP, generating a variety of tropical crops such as bananas, coconuts, papayas, cassava, cocoa, coffee, rice, sweet potato, and tea. Mining, another major component of the Giovannilandian primary sector, accounts for 0.5% of the national GDP and features an increasing search for rare-earth elements due to their uses in advanced technology, although the sector faces environmental regulations due to the green policies of the notable Partito Soquale-Verde. Meanwhile, the secondary sector is represented by factories and industries such as automobiles, computers and other electronics, food processing, and retail. These industry types are often concentrated in specific regions of the country, for example the Abrenosto region having strong influence in Giovannese cuisine and thus being the center of the national food processing industry. The mountainous regions such as Kordelleria are known for their retail sector, especially due to the low temperatures colder than the national average, while automobiles are often produced in the regions of Akallia and Altana. Finally, the technology industry is present throughout the country, especially in the capital and the coastal regions. Amorante and Flaviopole, in the regions of Primolido and Lido Flavi respectively, are often known as the head cities of this sector. They have the nearby ports of Porto Violeto and Andoliavilla, allowing for Giovannilandian high-tech and nanotechnology products to not only be exported and generate high revenue, but also be transported to the other regions of Giovanniland. Services The logos of Tullerigno and Emeria Lavanda, two service sector companies mentioned below. The tertiary sector is the driving workforce behind the national economy. Technology services account for over 10% of the GDP and are divided into diverse areas such as telecommunications, e-commerce, software development, social media, gaming, data processing, artificial intelligence and much more. Several Giovannilandian companies from this sector have in the last few decades become present in the lives of nearly all Giovannilandians and also a decent international audience, for example Tullerigno through its widely used Osello operating system and Essio browser & search engine; and more recently the Konsortio Intellegentie's development of the generative chatbot Violeta and text-to-image model VisioArti. This subdivision of the tertiary sector is most present in the region of Giovannia Magna, with several enterprises' headquarters in cities next to the capital such as Vinikiano, Raffellara and Mattenia. Nearly all of Giovanniland's population has access to the internet, and most households have electronics ranging from computers, televisions and mobile phones to advanced Internet of Things devices. The finance and trade sector is also notable and has its roots in the Giovannian Empire, since successive emperors sought to reach lands previously unknown to the Giovannese, establishing trading posts in the five continents including Nur, with which the Empire notably pioneered a surge in trade routes across the Viatic. Many institutions of merchants and moneylanders were founded in important ports like Uryde and Porto Violeto during the imperial golden age in the 9th and 10th centuries AF, and developed into modern-day banks such as the famous Emeria Lavanda (Lavender Bank). Presently 7% of the GDP comes from this area, and Giovannilandian banks have earned a reputation of having a very secure and technological system, alongside low taxes for money deposits. Last but not teast, the other major source of services income is tourism. Environmentally friendly tourism is prominent in the northern Lavandulan rainforests and the two branches of the Great Lavender Range in Giovaura, as well as the mountainous valleys of the Irto River and the vast southern savannas in Giovandolia, with several designated national parks and natural reserves for this purpose. Historical tourism offers a wide range of attractions, ranging from ancient ruins of the Lavandulan Empire to the medieval Abrentan castles and the vast diversity of Giovannian Empire architecture, complemented by museums like the National Museums of Giovannia and Andoliavilla. Cultural tourism is also very lively and finds its home in the region of Abrenosto, whose capital Abrentopole regularly hosts several culinary events, since world-famous Giovannese meals like pizza and seafood pasta come from this region, as well as art exhibitions and festivals. Another destination in the region is the Abrentan Cape, known for the vineyards and wine production near the city of Portovini, and the beach resorts visited by many international tourists along the cape's coastline. Transport Lavionda, one of the main airlines of Giovanniland. In the topic of transport, Giovanniland has a strong and well connected network of railroads, highways, waterways, harbors, airports, and more. The highway (autostrada) system is divided into national roads, which receive an abbreviation with the two-letter code GL followed by a number, and regional roads, whose abbreviations are similar but feature the two-letter code of the region instead. In the year of 1318 a very important project in the history of Giovannilandian highways was completed, with north-south highways in both the Auran and Andolian territories. The following decades saw the connection of all urban municipalities to this new system, and at last smaller settlements in rural municipalities. Meanwhile, the railway system is older and dates back to the middle to late imperial period, where it took on the role of transporting vast amounts of agricultural, mining and manufacturing goods. These were originally wooden rails, while newer innovations such as metal rails, steam and now electric power were introduced during or after the Industrial Revolution. The busiest port city in Giovanniland is Porto Violeto, a historic port that has been in existence for nearly two thousand years. Porto Violeto's harbor was greatly expanded during the imperial golden era, since it hosted a majority of the trade between the mainland and the overseas trading posts established by the Giovannian Empire, becoming the most prosperous city in all of the empire. In recent times, Porto Violeto has maintained its significance as the second largest city in Giovanniland and head of a cosmopolitan metropolis, while its port has evolved into a major container terminal for both the Darkesian Sea and the wider world. Meanwhile, other significant port cities include Uryde in the north and Andoliavilla in the south. Furthermore, the country is also well-adapted for aerial transport—the five busiest Giovannilandian airports are the Emperor Giovanni the Great International Airport in Giovannia (22 million passengers per year), the Abreo-Florino International Airport in Porto Violeta (15m), the Flavio International Airport in Andoliavilla (10m), the Respublika International Airport in Abrentopole (7m), and the Lavandula International Airport in Uryde (5m).

Cambria's Queen by Karl Kask In Cambrian vales where ancient mountains rise, And ocean’s roar meets with the morning’s sighs, A realm exists where freedom’s spirit gleams, And sovereign grace in people’s hearts it dreams. No tyrant’s rod, no despot’s iron hand, But equal rights across a bounteous land. A queen there reigns, whose will is nature’s force, Whose love, a sunbeam on life’s darkened course. Her wrath, a tempest, shakes the earth and sea, Yet tender mercies flow from her decree. For in her heart, a boundless ocean swells, Of empathy for all who hear her bells. A democracy, where voices find their way, And common good illuminates the day. No caste, no creed, to dim the human spark, But unity in purpose, bright and dark. Oh, Cambria's Queen, whose wisdom guides the land, A beacon shining on a distant strand. May freedom’s flame forever brightly burn, And love and justice to all hearts return. Oh, Youth: A Eulogy by Karl Kask Oh, Youth, thou fleeting dream of morning light, When hope's young bird sings on the soul's bright tree, Ere shadows lengthen with the waning night, Or life's tumultuous waves engulf the free. Thy laughter, like a rippling, crystal stream, Danced through the meadows of our careless years; Thy spirit, buoyant as a morning dream, Soared, unencumbered by the weight of fears. But now, alas, the golden hours are fled, And age's frost has crept upon my brow; My comrades, like autumnal leaves, are shed, And shadows lengthen where the sun shone low. The world, once fresh and fair, is grown austere, And toil's relentless hand has marked my frame; No more the heart with youthful joy can cheer, But mourns the glories of that vanished flame.

Thursday 11 - 07 - 1424 No. 144 - 50 RYXES TOURIST CONGESTION - ¿ARE THE LOCALS OVEREXAGGERATING OR NOT? Several States: With tourist season rapidly approaching in Ryxtylopia, many locals prepare, buisnesses restock and hotels prepare deals, however many other locals don't prepare and in fact complain about the tourist presence. Many others will say the tourist presence is a good thing, while some people in the most touristed areas of Ryxtylopia claim its annoying, as tourists can be not be annoying by themselves, but cause disrruptions to the local way of life during tourist season. The tourist presence for many regions in Ryxtylopia is what keeps the economy afloat, mainly in island or costal regions, especially in smaller towns that lack large companies to give them work and generate income; for a lot of small towns its a lifeline of income, and many small industries in Ryxtylopia revolve around tourism. Tourists from many places enjoy Ryxtylopia either due to pristine natural enviroments, to take a look at historic sights and buildings, or beacause its a good deal for the price, its one of the cheaper places to go as a tourist if you do plan to take a trip, at least by developed country standards. However for many locals this also comes with disadvantages mainly for those not directly or indirectly beneffited from the tourism industry, tourism can bring many problems to certain areas, and locals can pretty quickly get sick of them. One of the most prominant ones is that tourists lead to a raise in prices for commodities and services, which for the is usually not a problem, but for locals it can prove to be a problem, not only this, another serious problem when it comes to overturisting, especially in large cities, is traffic, both vehicle and pedestrian related, in areas with a lot of tourists traffic levels tend to spike, and last but very much not least the ocational annoying and/or entitled tourists, loud party goers and ever demanding ladies who want to be treated as queens. And then there's the moral issue that some tourists aren't the most "educated" as the issue of disrespect towards local customs and traditions in some areas has been made apparent and has been called out by both individuals, and local organizations. For some people the excess in tourists can feel like an invasion at times, but as said previously for others it can bring money, restaurants can fill their seats with people looking to try out local cuisine, hotels can fully book out their rooms and make proffit, souvenirs and gifts are sold in greater magnitudes, the list of beneffits goes on. Tourism can bring huge beneffits, however the impact excess in tourism has on small and large communities, and the fact that not all people beneffit from tourism causes the phenomenon where locals come to hate tourists and tend to enjoy the lesser touristed months before vacation season. RYXTYLOPIA TO FACE GIOVANNILAND IN RWC5 QUARTER-FINALS Overthinkers: The 5th Rugby World Cup continues in the Andolian nation of Overthinkers, were Ryxtylopia successfully got over Sekiya in the round of 16, and will prepare to face fellow Auran side Giovanniland in the quarterfinals in a match that has promised to be decisive and intense for both sides, with both teams having great level and a similar playstyle, a match that could have the potential to send Ryxtylopia to another semi-final ever since the debut in RWC4. For Ryxtylopia, qualification was achieved after 80 minutes in a match against Sekiya, where the rivals of the ARR played a very risky agressive playstyle which aided them in pressuring but lead to the loss in many occations of possetion, which let the ARR score enough to edge over the Sekiyan Rocks with the final score being 18-14. Giovanniland on the other hand had its own intense battle to reach the quarter finals, after achieving underwhealming results in Dalimbar; but under the lead of coach: Gyalsena Vatinio-Messalla they finished second in group D, and faced Larxia who placed 3rd in group A, their match was intense, with no tries scored by either side. However the Giovannilandians were able to hold off the Larxian attack, which resulted in Larxia not scoring any points, while Giovanniland was able to get 6 on the board' leaving it 6-0 in favor of the Aurans. Both sides have a lot on the line, Ryxtylopia's objective is to reach the final, as set by tivarra and the ARR ever since the performance in the last RWC, whilst Giovanniland would seek to keep improving their performance in this RWC, as in the last RWC they had a mediocre run, but in the end they already out-performed their run last year. Neverminding the result, the winner of this match will get a decent shot at the finals, and will face either the hosts Overthinkers or Polari team: United Adaikes. The match will be one of the best in terms of level for both teams yet, and despite the overwhealming advantage the Giovannilandians will have when it comes to support, as Giovanniland is closer to Overthinkers, the ARR is hopeful they'll make it to the semi-finals. PROGRESS ON THE KIL'NICÁ HIGHWAY HALTED AGAIN Kil'nicá, Cantríxa: The still long awaited highway to Kil'nicá continues to be built and continues to face constant delays, a project started about 8 years ago promised to be finished in 2 years that has now been 6 years due and gone way overbudget, this time due to poor weather causing the ground to become soggy, and difficult to build on. The road project known as the Kil'nicá road, oficially reffered to as the Kil'nicá-Ka'alvaña Highway, is a road project located in Cantríxa, in the central hilly and mountainous part of Cantríxa state, the road meant to connect one side of the Ryxtylopian roadnetwork to the other, and cut travel times, however this ultimate dream has always been delayed and delayed. The main reason for it being built is to better connect Kil'nicá the largest inland city in Ryxtylopia, with the rest of the country, and to provide a coast to coast connection in the south, as all the coast to coast connections by road and rail currently available are in the north. This would've provided a highway between the towns of Ka'alvaña and Culcha'añaca, in Cantríxa and Talaxachá states, the highway would've gone through Kil'nicá and Pasí di Valtachá, however only the portion of the highway between Pasí di Valtachá and Culcha'añaca was ever completed, the other half that would've gone through unfriendly terrain between Pasí di Valtachá through Kil'nicá and all the way to Ka'alvaña is still under construction. Reactions to the delay are unsurprised ones, as this project has been seen as a failure, or a money laundering scheme for the politicians who proposed it. There are genuine reasons for the constant delays as landslides, poor weather and engineering oversights, but other less valid reasons for delay are also present, and there have been periods where the workers working on the project have gone without making any progress, or have just gone home. In the end this highway will likley at some point be finished, however if that point is in a few months, or several more years isn't known, it will bring beneffits, but the time and cost it has taken so far already means it will take several years to repay its extremly overbudget cost with the limited economic beneffits it brings to the region.

Nouveauterra vs Ryxtylopia - Match Highlights For this match, Ryxtylopia would play with the green and blue kit, and inmediatley some major names were absent from the fifteen players on the pitch, as since the game with Arifiyyah, Tivarra had switched to give the bench and reserve players more chances to play. The same players as in the Arifiyyah and Einherfell games would be present but with some other changes done as well that included: Rinaco Patochá (Outside centre, No. 13) for Davina Fliores (No. 25) Marco Xilta (Openside flanker, No. 7) for Riberto Ca'aña (No. 22) Rinaco Zicha (Fly half, No. 10) for Zincho Ampardia (No. 17) Julio Disquerravía (Scrum half, No. 32) for Cheviz Quistra (No. 31) With both teams now lining up, Pablo Virriscayda would be comentating for TVNC, this was the last group stage match, and having already qualified as top of the group, there was a sense of relaxation amongst the ryxtylopian side, but soon both sides got ready for the coinflip. "It will be the coinflip, and... RYXTYLOPIA WINS IT! The Pirates have- yes they've elected to start by kicking off. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! NOUVEAUTERRA VS RYXTYLOPIA! Now live from Overthinkers on TVNC. The last match of the group stage! Nevermind the result Ryxtylopia will qualify as C1 to the next round!" KICK OFF: With the Pirates kicking off, the match commenced, Ryxtylopia inmediatley going on the offense while the nouveauterrans played their usual defensive playstyle that lead them to victory in against stronger opponents in the previous matches. "Kick off! Lets go Ryxtylopia! Its Nouveauterra vs Ryxtylopia from Ovethinkers in this 5th edition of the Rugby World Cup!" 4 Minutes in... (0-0) Playing agressivley it was the Pirate that threatened to open the scoreboard first with a good attempt by Andreís Guilbirto, the team's hooker to get past the Nouvaterran defense after a pass from loosehead prop: Xavio Hui'itá however after successfully avoiding nouvaterran halfback: Tedus Pisca and their inside centre: Raulf Zouteland, Guilbirto got tackled by their outside centre: Guillaume Amonines who was able to predict a turn made by Guilbirto to try avoiding him, as the Pirates loss possetion. "Its Guilbirtooooooooooo, Guilbirto with possetion, turn he passes Pisca on the left, attention, now its Zouteland for Nou- And Guilbirto passes him on the right! Its close Now to face Amonies, attention! Guilbir- AMONIES! AMONIES! AMONIES! TACKLE! TACKLE! Guilbirto fails to pass Amonies and gets tackled! The ball is now for Nouveauterra!" 17 Minutes in... (0-0) Following a ruck in the nouveauterran side possetion would be soon in the hands of Nº4 lock and team captain: Riberto Huichilca who continued the push until running into being cornered by Fly half: Quintin Koenderink and Raulf Zouteland, forcing him to kick the ball for a drop goal, which he missed, the ball going a few meters right of the post. "Ruck, pass, Huilchica! Huilchica, he's in a tough spot, but he's through, cornered, he might get tackled or try for a drop goal, attention, Huilchica- drop, kick! Annnnd, miss! The team's captain has missed the drop goal after being cornered, its still 0-0!" 37 Minutes in... (0-0) The game's pattern quickly set in with a big gap between any major chances: Ryxtylopia would successfully carry the ball forwards, only to be stopped by the Nouveauterran defense, which would then result in a short Nouveauterran pushback usually stopped near the midfield. This continued up to the 37th, when openside flanker: Riberto Ca'aña concreted a successful push through the right-wing, next to the line, passing to Guivina Divarra the team's Nº5 lock, who then passed to Guilbirto, who was waiting behind her, however nearing the end of the pitch Guilbirto failed the try getting tackled by one of Nouveauterra's fly-halfs: Lodewijk Berkenbos, with Divarra threatening to take the ball back, starting a ruck, between the ryxtylopians pushing and the nouveauterrans defending, which favored nouveauterra, as they managed to get the ball clear off their side. "Ca'aña is through on the lines, the ball in the Pirate's possetion... Now to Divarra, Divarra! Divarra... to Guilbirto! Attention its Guilbirto, he's running he's booked a ticket to the nouveauterran side and he does not want to be delayed! Guilbirto, Guilbirto, Guilbirto, Guilbirto TACKLE! TACKLE! BY LODEWIJK, the ball is still in play! Attention its- RUCK! RUCKRUCKRUCKRUCKRUCKRUCK! ANNND CLEAR! A huge chance for the Pirates was shut to them by Nouveauterra's defense! The score remains 0-0!" HALF-TIME (0-0) Half time arrived after many many tackles, rucks and mauls, it seemed for Tivarra his team wasn't working, or maybe Nouveauterra's defense knew how to handle bigger teams, even in their debut they had been able to lure out zoran's attack, and his agressive tactics weren't paying off. "And HALF TIME! Ladies and Gentlemen, Nouveauterra currently holding off Ryxtylopia here in Overthinkers in a match filled with blunted attacks and few chances! Do not worry as we'll be back for the second half here on TVNC in a short moment!" 58 Minutes in... (0-0) Nouveauterra had been playing defesiveley for over half the game, but in the second half, as Ryxtylopia started to pull back from attacking, preferring to attempt to build up their chances, the nouveauterrans had their first chance to score. With their first lock: Jules Tonguey attempting to open to scoreboard by skillfully avoiding Cheviz Quistra and reaching deep into the Ryxtylopian defense with a clear path to score the try, however Tivarra's team reacted at the last second with Avilita Mataña moving forward from her position and tackling Tonguey, allowing Davina Fliores to get the ball away. "Its Tonguey! Nouveauterra now on the attack! Quistra fails the tackle! Tonguey is through, causing danger, its Tongueyyyyyyyyy- MATAÑA- TACKLE! TACKLE TACKLE TACKLE TACKLE! RYXTYLOPIA SAVES ITSELF!" 65 Minutes in... (7-0) With the game now turning into a back and forth near and around the midfield, it seemed like it would end in a draw, but it would be Nouveauterra to open the scoreboard, after a scrum, that ended in their favor lead to possetion being handed to their tighthead prop: Sebastian De Wacht, who avoided the first ryxtylopian defensive line going aroung Guilbirto Tivaña and causing Davina Fliores to slip while trying to tackle him, with this the path for a pass cleared up for a pass to hooker: Emeric Voutezac and then another pass to the team's loosehead prop: Theo Buezeville, with ryxtylopian fullback: Ernysto Rivas being caught off his position, leading to Buezeville scoring the try. Jules Tonguey would take care of the conversion kick, scoring and giving Nouveauterra the edge on the match, and for now bringing them in to the round of 16, potentially leaving Peourouin or Saint Mark out. "De Wacht! Now going past Tivaña, Attention tackle by Davina annnd- SLIP! She failed the tackle, De Wacht is now in position, Its not for Emeric Voutezac, Voutezac, Buezeville, attention Rivas is off his post and SCORE! Nouveauterra has scored thanks to Theo Buezeville!" "It will be Tonguey to convert, attention its Tongueeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey, SCORE! Tonguey has scored the conversion, Ryxtylopia is now loosing to Nouveauterra the game is 7-0!" 71 Minutes in... (7-7) However despite now leading, this try gave the ryxtylopians a wake up call, resulting in a revived offensive from Xavio Hui'itá and Rinacó Dipartí, after a maul, the ryxtylopian attack revived with the Nº8: Quista Farris turning on her heels around halfback: Pius Horatius, and starting the attack, passing to Huilchica, who nearly got tackled by Zouteland, nevertheless he got through concreting one last pass to Hui'itá, who taking advantage of the disposition of the nouveauterran defense slipped through and scored the try. Huilchica soon did his part by scoring the conversion, tying the match for the time being. "Attention its now Hui'itá! Maul- nevermind its Quista Farris! Now avoiding Horatius, Farris to Huilchica, Zoutel- HUILCHICA IS IN! Huilchica to Hui'itá, there's no defender Hui'itáaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!! SCOREEEEEEEE!! Hui'itá has scored for Ryxtylopia!" "Huilchica must score the conversion! Attention! Attention it will be HUILCHICAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!! SCORE!! Ryxtylopia ties the match!" 74 Minutes in... (7-7) The intensity of the game was only picking up by the 74th, with a good attempt to pierce Nouveauterra's defense by Farris, ending in a tackle and ruck, where Rinaco Dipartí re-took possetion, before getting cornered by Pisca, Quintin Koenderink and Zouteland, which forced him to attempt a drop goal, which came inches close to the post, with the point of the ball bouncing off, and spinning off to the side. "Farris Farris, TACKLE! DIPARTÍ its Dipartí Dipartí with possetion! He's off he's in the sides, cornered! Zouteland might go for the tackl- DROP DIPARTÍIIIIIIIIIIII! MISS! IT BOUNCED OFF! THE BALL BOUNCED TO THE SIDE! ITS 74 MINUTES THIS WILL SOON END!" 78 Minutes in... (10-7) However after a ruck, Quistra Pivala got tackled by lock: Joep Bloem and possetion went for De Wacht, which caused a panic in the ryxtylopian defense leading to Guilbirto Tivaña committing a foul, when he failed to get a grip on De Wacht, quickly reacting Tivaña grabbed him below the knees, causing De Wacht to fall down, luckily being able to land on his right arm, injuring it the process, it wasn't serious but the game got paused for a minute as the medical team checked De Wacht's arm, the infraction nearly got Tivaña sent off, and the referee called a penalty in Nouveauterra's favor. Jules Tonguey would be the one to kick the penalty, scoring it as the game reached its end. "Pivala... MISTAKE! PIVALA IS TACKLED, BALL FOR DE WACHT! De Wacht will have to face Tivaña, SLIP! TIVAÑAAAAA, Foul! Tivaña commits a clear Foul, De Wacht is on the floor! We got the medical team on pitch now, the game is halted..." "Annnd PENALTY! Penalty for Nouveauterra due to Tivaña's tackle!" "It will be Tonguey to kick, attention, Tonguey... SCORE! Nouveauterra score the penalty in the dying minutes of the match, its now 10-7!" FULL TIME (10-7) Soon after the penalty, the referee ended the game as the ARR got their first defeat of the tournament in the last day of the group stages, however they would still hold C1, to face Sekiya in the round of 16. For Nouveauterra, this victory catapulted them to 3rd in group C, meaning qualification to the round of 16, bumping Saint Mark to 4th and meaning the end of the road for Peourouin, as they would end up 5th. "Annnd, whistle! Ryxtylopia has lost! Nouveauterra are into the round of 16! Even with this result, Ryxtylopia will remain 1st in the group, and will face Sekiya in the Round of 16!" "Ryxtylopia must learn from this defeat and get ready for the next round, we can expect major changes and we'll probably go back to the main team for the next game, as our next rival will be Sekiya! In the round of 16." "This marks the end for our Group Stage transmissions! TVNC Sports will now move on to the next stages, we hope you enjoyed the transmissions, and once again we thank Overthinkers the organizers of the tournament. Im Pablo Virriscayda and i will hopefully see you all ladies and gentlemen in the next match: RYXTYLOPIA VS SEKIYA! Have a good day." The Transmission Ends.

Geography of Giovanniland Giovanniland has a total area of 395,107 km², comprised by one territory in northern Andolia and the other territory in Aura's Lavender Island. Auran Giovanniland shares a land border with Blue Bubble to the west and Min-Su to the east; while Andolian Giovanniland borders Varanius to the west, Tupmonia to the south and Fhaengshia to the east. The nation also borders the Darkesian Sea in three different sections of coast, including the notable Isole Annovi archipelago in Andolia, where Admiral Flavio's expedition first arrived in the new year of 724, as well as the Isola Abrenta off the southern coast of Lavender Island. The country uses the International Atomic Time (IAT+0) for the entire territory, lying between latitudes 12° and 26°S, and longitudes 9°W and 9°E. Giovanniland's border with Blue Bubble is defined by two rivers, the Ameno River in the south and the Purpuro or Muk-lung River in the north, two rivers having their springs near the Abrio Peak of the Great Lavender Range's western branch, a famous mountain also located on the two nations' border. On the other hand, the border with Min-Su has large straight sections, starting near the southern town of Aquaviola, cutting through the eastern branch of the Great Lavender Range, following the Ortano or Shar-lung River for a significant part of the Lavandulan lands in the north, and then ending with another vertical line. As for the Andolian border, the northwestern part bordering Varanius is defined by a few rivers, followed by a large straight section until the southwest. The Gigero River then defines part of the southern border before the Tupmonian border, after which two straight sections define the border with that country, while the eastern border with Fhaengshia roughly follows along the Nia River until its mouth. Topographic and river map of Giovanniland. Giovannilandian topography is diverse and includes several topographical regions. Auran Giovanniland has plains in the southwest, corresponding to the Primolido, Akallia and Abrenosto regions, as well as in the north within the Lavanda Prima region. The capital Giovannia and the surrounding region are located in the central highlands, and to its north is the topographically similar Lavanda Sekunda region. Last but not least, the regions Verdiante and Spandorto are known for having parts of the Great Lavender Range's western and eastern branches respectively. To the south of the mountains, major rivers include the Amore River with large cities such as Porto Violeto and Amorante near its mouth; the Keleste River in whose upper waters the capital Giovannia was notably built; and the southern Festino River that drains into the Darkesian Sea in the city of Abrentopole. In the north, the Dzé-lung or Gratioso River is a very important river for the Lavanda Prima and Lavanda Sekunda regions, featuring their respective capitals Uryde and Kastellavando throughout its course, as well as other relevant cities like Kyene and Lampo. Andolian Giovanniland is far more mountainous, although it also has lowlands and plains where a significant part of the population lives, mainly in the north (the Lido Flavio, Feragia and Altana regions) and the extreme south (the Vallemuni region). Meanwhile, the regions of Terra Violeta, Oltoveno and Doruna in the central part of the territory are known for their great altitude contrast, including valleys of the large Irto River and its tributaries surrounded by large mountain ranges. The region of Kordelleria is very sparsely populated and contains Giovanniland's section of the Great Andolian Range, divided into two parts by the central L'Apertura mountain pass, and it's where most earthquakes in the country happen. As for notable rivers, the aforementioned Irto River crosses the territory from southeast to northwest, and near its waters there are several major cities like Nenofre, Villaflori and Einotta; while the southern Emune River gives its name to the Vallemuni region and is home to cities like Gioseppole and Daurone. Biome map of Giovanniland. Giovanniland has a total of eight different biomes, three of which appear in Aura and seven in Andolia. Auran Giovanniland is covered by a large broadleaf forest, although the northern and western areas receive high rainfall throughout the year and are therefore rainforests, while the other areas have a distinct dry season, leading to the different biome classifications. Meanwhile, a large part of Andolian Giovanniland is covered by tropical grasslands, savannas and shrublands, whereas the rest of the biomes have a more limited distribution—for example the montane grasslands and coniferous forests in the mountainous south, and the semiarid or arid shrublands that cover a significant part of the coast, except in the west where broadleaf forests are the highlight. Giovanniland has a rich biodiversity, especially in the Auran forests and Andolian savannas. Some examples are jaguars, ocelots, capybaras, iguanas, tapirs, sloths, armadillos, piranhas, macaws, flamingoes, and anacondas, some of which are only found in the rainforest regions. All three coastlines that the nation has in the Darkesian Sea are also known to be home to various types of maritime life, including but not limited to dolphins, large whales, shrimps, octopuses, and coral reefs. The country also features a large amount of plant species, such as the many Auran forest trees, while Andolian Giovanniland offers a diverse lineup ranging from pines and araucarias in the mountainous regions to cacti and xeric trees in the arid lands, and of course the ubiquitous savanna trees and shrubs. In order to protect this biodiversity, Giovannilandian state policy has included an extensive environmental protection program for the last century. There are several designated national parks and natural reserves, in which sustainable tourism is allowed but no farming or mining can take place. Laws also regulate industries to prevent deforestation, species endangerment and water pollution among other issues. The hyacinth macaw native to Lavender Island is the national animal.

Saturday 6 - 07 - 1424 No. 143 - 50 RYXES CHACAS NEW STADIUM NEARS COMPLETION - THE RUGBY REVOLUTION IN RYXTYLOPIA Pinilaca, Pestalpa: The new stadium for Chacas Rugby Clube, in Pinilaca is nearly done, a complex that has spent the last 4 years under construction while chacas have been playing in the Istadio Cairrina for the last 5 years during the construction of their new complex. However those 4 years playing in a smaller stadium for a club of their size seems to be over and the reigning champions of the Liga di Rugby A will soon have a new place to call home, north of their current location but still falling near the coast in Pinilaca, the new complex will have a capacity of around 50,000 spectators, as well as having roofs over the seating areas, a commodity Chacas old complex in Dirvaxes - the Istadio Andreís Viscreindía, which while having a decent capacity for 30,000 people, is quickly becomming outdated, with no roof, and a field progne to flooding during storms, as well as being a generally uncomfortable complex. The new stadium is still being named, but it will be a massive upgrade not just for Chacas, but for the entire city, which lacks modern sporting infrastructure, as the stadium won't be only used for rugby events; it will serve as a multi-porpuse arena for rugby and football, as well as hosting boxing competitions, and concerts, a true multi-porpuse venue that will be available for many sporting and social events. Chacas have partially funded the stadium, with their main sponsors being BANCOPE a major bank in Ryxtylopia and UltraGas a petroleum company, as well as those two, they include some international sponsors and a grant from the government that aided them in construction, this project unlike many others did not go too overbudget, being driven mainly by the private sector. The proyect has become the most expensive proyect in the history of the state, with the current cost of construction being around 19 billion ryxes, but despite the high pricetag it has shown that rugby in Ryxtylopia is undergoing a major transformation, as its seeing a massive increase in popularity thanks to the 4th and 5th Rugby World Cups, where Ryxtylopia has seen great success in demonstrating the quality of ryxtylopian sports, and of our rugby players. This so called "Rugby Revolution" may be able to shake the stagnant rugby league in Ryxtylopia, as sources indicate smaller clubs may get bought out by foreign companies looking to capitalize on the growth of the sport, which could upset the current "monopoly" Chacas RC, and Trinchanacó RC hold over the ryxtylopian rugby league, a "monopoly" that has held for the last 20-ish years. Reactions to the construction of the complex have been mainly positive, with the exception of locals in the area (and the fans of Chacas rivals), locals in the area claim this stadium will elevate the land value, which may lead to higher rent prices for people who rent housing there, and also may lead to other infrastructure proyects in the area which will turn a middle-class suburb of Pinilaca into a high-class one, a move that a lot of the residents don't support. There are also concerns about the traffic that the stadium will bring in during matchdays, considering its elevated capacity and the poor state of roads leading into the area where the stadium is being built. Nontheless the public reaction has been mainly positive, and this may be the first stone moved in the Ryxtylopian Rugby Revolution of the 1420's, that could entireley change the face of the sport in this mainly neglected corner of the Auran continent. RYXTYLOPIA ACHIEVES FIRST IN RWC5 GROUP - AWAITING NEXT MATCH AGAINST NOUVAUTERRA Overthinkers: The ARR are currently in their second participation in the Rugby World Cup, the current edition in Overthinkers currently being a great success for the ARR, as "The Pirate" has achieved the qualification for the round of 16 and has also secured qualification in C1, being several points away from second place in group C - Zoran. Theese news have been received with joy from ryxtylopipan fans, and celebrations are begining, as despite still having one game left, Ryxtylopia will leave its group in 1st place, no matter the result of the last game of the group where the Pirate will face Nouveauterra. As for Ryxtylopia's rival in the round of 16, its still up in the air, Ryxtylopia will face the 4th placed team in group B, currently being Sekiya, but the ARR could also face newcomers Zhiznovsk, or Nieubasria if they can get enough bonus points to favor them. Sekiya currently holds a lead over the two other teams being 1 point over Zhiznovsk and 4 points over Nieubasria. Sekiya and Nieubasria will face eachother in the last day while Zhiznovsk will face current 3rd placed: United Adaikes. As of now it seems that the Pirates will face Sekiya, but they could be dealt an upset by Nieubasria if they are not careful, Sekiya does have the easiest road to qualifying as if they win, they will most likley be in unless Zhiznovsk obtains enough bonus points. As for Zhiznovsk they probably have a tougher path; they will need to win against UA, and hope to get enough bonus points, or have Sekiya lose their game. Nieubasria probably has the hardest road to qualify, they must beat Sekiya to have any chance to qualify, and hope Zhiznovsk lose their game, as well as this, they'll need to get bonus points from their game against Sekiya to qualify, but if the results go their way they'll be in. Whilst Ryxtylopia's opponent is still up in the air, team morale is high, especially if they retain their current winstreak, and the team's objective is clear: outdo their result from RWC4, it will be a hard road for them but they'll have plenty of support both in and outside Ryxtylopia. VYNITINÁ - ¿IS IT AS MISERABLE AS THE STEREOTYPE HAS YOU BELIVE? THE DEBATE CONTINUES Vynitiná, Yilanit: The 2nd most populated city in Ryxtylopia: Vynitiná, has a bad stereotype that it cannot shake, propagated in social media by the newer generations: "Vynitiná is a miserable and disgusting place to live in." this old stereotype has existed since the 1370's and 80's and has survived to the modern day, but how? A recent independent study has shown that around 3 in every 5 ryxtylopians have a negative view of Vynitiná ¿Why is that? The negative perception of Vynitiná is mainly due to it being seen as a "poor" and "industrial" city, and many of theese stereotypes, while exaggerated aren't too far from the truth. Vynitiná is one of the most industrially polluted cities in Ryxtylopia and even in Aura, as it still relies heavily on manufacturing, unlike Ryxenia which moved to other industries during the 1400's and 1410's, mainly services, meaning the reliance on industry there has dropped. This has not been the case for Vynitiná which unlike cities in Saxatí and the D.A.F. has remained industrial, and the low cost of labor there has lead to continued industrial investment in the city, mainly into the manufacturing sector, and industry there accounts for a large portion of Ryxtylopia's industrial exports, with the port of Vynitiná being one of Ryxtylopia's most important. Vynitiná by no means is a "poor" city, but it is under the national wealth avarage, and is characterized for slums, and lower income housing, which doesn't help with ridding the city of the stereotypes that haunt it, pollution is rampant, and even the city centre can be filled with smog on ocations, the pollution has been classed as the cities number 1 issue, and has lead to several cases of lung diseases, as well as other diseases from unsanitary water, the citie's water supply can get being contaminated depending on the area where its collected from. All of theese factors have lead to Vynitiná becomming more than a city, a meme in ryxtylopian social media and an example of "where it all goes wrong" a "poor and dirty place" where nobody in gods earth wants to live.

A Mother and Wife By Ivar Taul In moonlit whispers, draped in shadows deep, A mother mourns, where regret bids her weep. A chilling wind sighs through the barren tree, A constant echo of what used to be. He was a stalwart, strong and ever true, A love that promised skies of endless blue. But foolish pride, a siren's tempting song, Lured me to darkness, where I now belong. They called him dull, his ways devoid of spark, But love's true flame burns steady in the dark. My heart, a moth, was drawn to fleeting light, Now lost in shadows, withering in night. The blame, it settles, heavy as a shroud, Not on my choices, but his voice too loud. He held me captive, stifled all my dreams, A gilded cage, so love it never seems. My children, blessed with innocence so bright, Reflect a past I cast into the night. Perhaps within their eyes, his shadow sleeps, A constant reminder where true passion weeps. The moon descends, a cruel and watchful eye, As vengeance stirs, a chilling lullaby. Their happiness, a mockery of mine, A twisted love, a bond that will entwine. Let whispers turn to nightmares, soft and sly, Let doubt take root, where trusting dreams once lie. Their love, once pure, will wither in my wake, A twisted echo for the choice I make. Beware, my darlings, love's a fickle friend, A cruel deceiver with a bitter end. In shadows I will lurk, a spider black, And claim the hearts I foolishly turned back.

The coach was saying, "When Michael runs, it creates an extra player in the line. So exploit that to create gaps between the opposition 10 and open-side flanker at the scrum. This play should be used from a left-side scrum. The angles run here will give the back-line options to attack their weakest tackler or take the ball wide. In practice, we started by running this move at half pace and without any defense. Then, we added a defense, comprising a four-man back-line and an open-side flanker. First, Paul passes to Michael, who will run around from the left side of the scrum. Then Michael has options to pass to Rudolph or Celerio. Either one should call if they feel the pass is on. Rudolph runs out and then cuts in on a hard line toward the outside shoulder of their 10. Celerio tracks behind 10 and then 12 to run on 12’s outside shoulder. Nelson runs behind 12 to be in a position to pass deep to Blaze. Alan runs out and then cuts in to connect with 11 or 12. Blaze and Christopher stay deep to offer the outside option but must be ready to support Alan." The team was gathered in the locker room and paying close attention to Coach Rahl. Their match against Zoran had been disappointing, but not unexpected, but their latest win had given them hope. They weren't doing quite as well as they had last year, but they weren't out of the running either. Everything hung on this next match against Arifiyyah.