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Introduction For the first part of this Travel Guide, before delving deeper into each of the sixteen regions, we have decided to start with an overview of them. This introduction features a description and some statistics for each region, and the regions are also listed here in the same order they will appear in the guide, starting with the most populous region Giovannia Magna, as mentioned in the preface. (OOC: The images for each region are AI-generated). Giovannia Magna Population: 3,591,220 Area: 13,061 km² Density: 275/km² Capital: Giovannia (pop. 1,563,119) Notable cities: Vinikiana (pop. 240,927), Raffellara (pop. 228,012), Mattenia (pop. 154,225) Giovannia Magna is the heart of the country, its most populous and most densely populated region. The national capital Giovannia lies at the central part of the region, near the confluence of the Keleste River with its tributary, the Terente. An area of more recent population, as the city was built as a planned new capital for the Giovannian Empire, the region stands today as a testament of the nation's development. Giovannia offers a range of historical and cultural attractions such as the old Imperial Palace and the National Museum side by side with very futuristic buildings, and beyond the capital, other cities within its metropolitan area of 3 million inhabitants are also well worth the visit. Giovannia, the national capital. Lavanda Prima Population: 2,877,251 Area: 18,686 km² Density: 154/km² Capital: Uryde (pop. 509,819) Notable cities: Quorivo (pop. 262,144), Dazane (pop. 181,632), Kyene (pop. 150,825) The cradle of the ancient Lavandulan civilization, Lavanda Prima is one of the main travel destinations of Giovanniland. Its capital Uryde was once the capital of the Lavandulan Empire, under its old name of Lavandula, and retains several historical buildings from antiquity, the city of Quorivo is known for the powerful medieval duchy that bears its name and for being one of the two II Summer Esferiad host cities, and more to the south, Kyene is the birthplace of Violetism and a site of pilgrimage featuring the largest Violetist temple in Esferos. Furthermore, Lavanda Prima is also notable for its beautiful and popular beaches on the northern coasts, and for its two famous festivals, the Lavender Festival and Violet Carnival. The historical district of Uryde. Lavanda Sekunda Population: 1,260,934 Area: 22,342 km² Density: 56/km² Capital: Kastellavando (pop. 116,205) Notable cities: Rivomonte (pop. 104,333), Pelkarma (pop. 70,822), Lyogalla (pop. 52,830) Lavanda Sekunda offers the feeling of Lavandulan history and culture just like Lavanda Prima, but also a respite from the multiple large and bustling cities of its northern neighbor. The region name is a historical reference to the fact the Lavandulan civilization first grew near the coastal lowlands to the north, and then expanded southwards during the Lavandulan Empire to the hilly areas that today compose Lavanda Sekunda. Some of its attractions are its beautiful broadleaf forests and multiple Violetist temples throughout the countryside; as well as the area to the south where the contact between the Lavandulan and Abrentan civilizations happened during the Middle Ages, home to the first capital of the Giovannian Empire, Rivomonte. A Violetist temple in the countryside. Verdiante Population: 755,901 Area: 21,968 km² Density: 34/km² Capital: Valsereno (pop. 81,559) Notable cities: Gile (pop. 54,270), Pradobeno (pop. 50,245), Amarena (pop. 39,522) Verdiante is a region known for its natural wonders. It contains a majority of the Ameno River's basin, a significant river that marks the southern section of the border with Blue Bubble, with many beautiful lakes, valleys and waterfalls. The capital Valserene is the starting point of many itineraries that traverse the region, from the western plains to the northern highlands, passing through numerous smaller, charming cities with a calm atmosphere. These itineraries are a notable example of eco-tourism in Giovanniland, showing the region's commitment to preserving its natural beauty. A known landmark of the region is the Abrio Peak, the highest point of Giovaura, near the small town of Urbolina. A view of the Abrio Peak and the forests surrounding it. Primolido Population: 3,141,592 Area: 12,376 km² Density: 254/km² Capital: Porto Violeto (pop. 1,004,153) Notable cities: Annavilla (pop. 305,746), Amorante (pop. 213,504), Kampobello (pop. 147,069) Primolido is Giovanniland's third most populous region, known for its beautiful coasts, rich culture, and very advanced development. The region's name pays homage to being the first lands settled by the Abrentan civilization, which then expanded throughout southwestern Lavender Island and laid the basis for Giovanniland's modern history together with the Lavandulans. The capital Porto Violeto is the nation's most important port and also a hub of tourism, featuring several famous waterfronts and promenades. Other cities such as Annavilla and Amorante are popular for their many beaches and nightlife, while the northern part of the region features some off the beaten path locations and the Isla Abrenta, a major island. Porto Violeto, Giovanniland's second largest city. Akallia Population: 1,599,678 Area: 19,987 km² Density: 80/km² Capital: Salvoregno (pop. 162,087) Notable cities: Lurtone (pop. 120,631), Sonserina (pop. 103,715), Lastrilla (pop. 75,963) Often overlooked, the region of Akallia is not only a gateway between Giovannia Magna and Primolido, but also a very unique travel destination on its own. Settled in the early and middle periods (95 BF-349 AF) of the Abrentan Classical Era, this region offers some of the best preserved castles and villages of that civilization. Its capital and other large cities still show strong traits of the medieval Abrentan architecture and culture to this day, learning to conciliate modern development with their rich history. One can also visit smaller cities where these storied buildings are still nearly intact, the inhabitants offer warm hospitality, and the streets tell tales of a bygone era. The city of Salvoregno and its Great Castle. Spandorto Population: 856,196 Area: 42,001 km² Density: 20/km² Capital: Tommasia (pop. 76,920) Notable cities: Uprino (pop. 64,833), Kornelio (pop. 41,609), Kurrente (pop. 31,728) Similar to the region of Verdiante, Spandorto is also a good destination for those seeking to explore the nature of Lavender Island and enjoy the local culture in some smaller cities. The region features plains to the west, notable for being one of the areas in Giovanniland with the highest amount of farmland, and more mountainous territory to the east, which is sparsely populated. Some notable destinations include the two largest cities Tommasia and Uprino, often the first stops in a trip in this region, the iconic city of Oddolino surrounded by many hills and known for its beautiful buildings, and the famous waterfalls of the Gratioso River, a tourist attraction on the Giovannilandian-Minsunese border. The central district of Oddolino. Abrenosto Population: 3,571,249 Area: 29,550 km² Density: 121/km² Capital: Abrentopole (pop. 425,870) Notable cities: Karlopole (pop. 347,106), Portovini (pop. 134,057), Bayabrenti (133,574) Abrenosto is a region best known for its lively culture, with a name meaning Southern Abrento and alluding to the southern expansion of the Abrentan civilization and foundation of their second capital, Abrentopole, which today continues on as an important city. This city is often called the Giovannilandian Capital of Culture, owing to its famous festivals, art exhibitions and culinary scene. Many traditional meals from Giovanniland originated in this region, such as the world-famous pizza and the many recipes featuring seafood. Other notable destinations include Portovini, aptly named for the vineyards near the city, and Karlopole, a city of more recent settlement which is located near the Minsunese border and offers a distinct blend of cultures. Waterfront and restaurants in Abrentopole. Lido Flavi Population: 2,011,284 Area: 12,870 km² Density: 156/km² Capital: Andoliavilla (pop. 640,816) Notable cities: Flaviopole (pop. 219,422), Giuvenoria (pop. 123,855), Einotta (pop. 108,162) Lido Flavi is home to Giovandolia's capital Andoliavilla, the third largest city and second largest port in Giovanniland, a coastal haven notable for its vibrant nightlife and culture, alongside historical buildings from the time of Giovannian Empire and large museums. Also notable is Flaviopole, founded on the site that the expedition to Andolia by the general Flaviopole first landed, and other coastal cities like Giuvenoria and Delliaro. Lido Flavi is also home to the Irto River's delta and several different biomes, such as moist and dry broadleaf forests, as well as arid and semiarid shrublands, a nice combination for eco-tourism. Andoliavilla, Giovanniland's third largest city. Feragia Population: 2,402,339 Area: 23,586 km² Density: 102/km² Capital: Nenofre (pop. 237,690) Notable cities: Urbevittori (pop. 128,165), Kantemo (pop. 101,472), Novo Uryde (pop. 88,125) To the south of Lido Flavio lies the region of Feragia, the most populous of Giovandolia, with its vast plains and shrublands. The capital Nenofre is located on the plains crossed by the Irto River, being one of the many settlements dating back to the ancient Beremean civilization that flourish until today, while others. The region's mostly plain territory and fertile lands are perfect for agriculture, while tourism is also significant due to the many ancient ruins. There are also cities that have a strong Lavandulan influence, such as Novo Uryde and Vallespi, with many Violetist temples. Landscape in Feragia, featuring ruins of an ancient city. Terra Violeta Population: 1,138,762 Area: 18,703 km² Density: 61/km² Capital: Villaflori (pop. 145,603) Notable cities: Antoniopole (pop. 62,921), Bevimo (pop. 51,470), Urbeleoni (pop. 44,314) Terra Violeta is a land of many valleys and mountains located to the south of Feragia, known for its beautiful savannas and grasslands. Villaflori, the City of Flowers, is Terra Violeta's capital and fits its name well, featuring large gardens alongside its modern buildings that are worth the visit. The capital and other major cities are mostly located on the lowlands of the Irto River and its tributaries, while the highlands have smaller settlements and breathtaking views. There are several itineraries that explore the rural lands of Terra Violeta, with the aforementioned valleys and mountains. The largest garden in Villaflori. Altana Population: 1,652,036 Area: 13,518 km² Density: 122/km² Capital: Islamagna (pop. 321,874) Notable cities: Bayabella (pop. 170,236), Potestana (pop. 111,382), Nova Annavilla (pop. 105,190) Altana, nicknamed the Land of Eternal Coasts, is the second most densely populated region in Giovandolia and also the northernmost, when considering the Islas dell'Annovo province. In the coastline of Altana, golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see, and some of the most famous beaches in the entire country can be found here. The capital Islamagna is located on the archipelago and developed from a medieval fort called Forte Giovanni, one of the earliest conquered areas by the Giovannian Empire outside Lavender Island, therefore it has plenty of historical places to visit. Other interesting destinations are on the mainland, like the popular coastal cities Bayabella and Potestana, as well as Oddabrio (Altan-qota), the historical capital of the Ardala Khanate. The coast of Islamagna. Doruna Population: 1,055,820 Area: 12,856 km² Density: 82/km² Capital: Markellia (pop. 119,456) Notable cities: Sekundia (pop. 87,635), Granfoge (pop. 62,910), Murengo (pop. 52,162) Doruna, meaning the Eastern Region, features many valleys and mountains and has a similar vegetation to Terra Violeta. The capital Markellia is a picturesque town surrounded by vineyards and orchards, offering a taste of the region's agricultural richness, while Tenge is notable for its seaside resorts, both located on the more densely populated northern part of the region. Meanwhile, the southern cities of Kadivale and Urruma offer a gateway to the mountainous and sparsely populated lands of south Vallivante, where many explorers partake in travels towards the upper reaches of the Irto River. The landscape around the city of Murengo. Oltoveno Population: 903,482 Area: 21,561 km² Density: 42/km² Capital: Gallasera (pop. 60,781) Notable cities: Ettore (pop. 52,410), Andona (pop. 42,345), Giakinia (pop. 41,859) Oltoveno is located on the central lands of Giovandolia and offers diverse landscapes. In the north, cities such as Andona and Quirino are good starting points for itineraries to explore the valleys of the Mellito River and the Altandobbo Mountains located on its northern border. The capital Gallasera and the city of Giakinia are known for their lively culture and nightlife, while in the south, the city of Ettore is the gateway for the southern regions of Kordelleria and Vallemuni. The capital Gallasera and the Irto River. Vallemuni Population: 1,748,631 Area: 28,009 km² Density: 62/km² Capital: Gioseppole (pop. 161,914) Notable cities: Daurone (pop. 115,477), Purpurana (pop. 100,336), Amorio (pop. 63,209) Vallemuni is known both for its artistic prowess and scenic nature. The capital Gioseppole is known for its grand theaters, art galleries, and street performances, as well as the Gioseppole Arts Festival, the largest in southern Giovandolia. Other cities such as Amorio and Daurone feature interesting architecture on the riverbanks of the Emuno, while the southern areas (the extreme south of Giovanniland overall) are known for eco-tourism, and natural reserves mainly the south. There are many options of trails and safaris for the tourists seeking to uncover the vast diversity of the grasslands and savannas, while being mindful about protecting the environment. The city of Gioseppole during one of its Arts Festivals. Kordelleria Population: 738,765 Area: 84,020 km² Density: 9/km² Capital: L'Apertura (pop. 49,512) Notable cities: Monteventi (pop. 30,190), Pando (pop. 22,246), Larone (pop. 19,121) Last but not least, Kordelleria is the largest and also most sparsely populated region of Giovanniland, dominated by the majestic peaks and tranquil valleys of the Giovandolian Mountains, and home to coniferous forests not found anywhere else in the country. The capital L'Apertura is located in the main mountain pass that connects the lands north and south of the mountains. It's also a common starting point on tours to explore the vast mountainous region, while the small villages throughout the way are serene and idyllic places to stop by between the large hiking trails of an itinerary. If one is daring enough, an unique experience is to visit the Violeta Peak, the highest point of Giovanniland. The Violet Peak during winter.

Maps These maps serve as a helpful addition to the introduction, providing an useful visual overview of the country. The three maps included are a map featuring each of the seven hundred municipalities (both urban and rural), another map for the sixteen regions, and lastly a view of the major cities, all the urban municipalities in Giovanniland with more than 100,000 population. Municipalities Regions Major Cities

Part 1: Land Ahead A teenage officer stretched his body out over the rail to gaze at the far away strip of green on the horizon. The sun is high in the sky, and the water is calm. “Alert the captain,” he said, “Land dead ahead.” Marines and spare men came to the deck to see the green strip on the horizon. None of them could have conceived of what would take place in this place that would later be known as Nouveauterra. Captain Markus Fredsbringer and his fleet of 20 armed merchant vessels make landfall on the shores of Testa Viridus, so named because the land looked like a green tortoise shell in the distance, in the year 890 AF. Fredsbringer is a captain of the Markan Seas Trade Company, following orders from Emperor Ignavus of the Principality of Saint Mark, to establish a statio on this coast. Although the intentions of the mission are peaceful, the merchant vessels are laden with cannon and arms in case privateers or pirates attempt an attack on their formation. Captain Fredsbringer and his crew make landfall on the Southern Belt, at a point with dense and hardy monsoon-tested forest. They quickly establish a statio using the lumber from the nearby forest, and send back ships for supplies as well as to inform the MSTC of their success. Local people soon flock to see the sun-burned sailors in their guns and armor. Close behind them was a man in stately attire. Billowing white pants and a white shirt embellished with colored patterns, as well as tightly wrapped leather boots. The stately man’s name is recorded as Bertus of Nederwald, and after many conversations with Captain Fredsbringer, they establish a trading relationship with the people of that area, called Blauflocke. As the two converse more, Captain Fredsbinger discovers that Blauflocke is only one of many small fiefdoms in this southern coastal area. The fiefdoms spawned from the density of the forest, and the natural choke-points created by the environment. It also means said trade deal only applies to Blauflocke. Emperor Ignavus is pleased when news reaches the Principality with tales of success. He sends more vessels, and commissions scribes and learned men to go as well in order to record the culture. A recovered map of the area from 917 AF, commissioned by Emperor Ignavus and certified by Claudius Anguis, Chief of Operations in the Markan Seas Trade Company The Principality of Saint Mark gathered enough influence and local manpower to reform the first statio in a place they call Traiectus in 902 AF. It is for the most part a fortress with a small clustering of buildings nearby, but it will grow into a vibrant city of Gué in the far future. It will stand as a marker for the kind of influence Saint Mark will have on the region. Guns, and armor. A second expedition is sent out, and lands further north than the first group. They similarly have an easy time establishing good relations with the locals, and quickly aid them in founding the statio of Montes Magnos in 915 AF, which would later be known as Pointe-d’Espoir. These two outposts work as crucial logistical and military nodes for the Saint Markan empire, and will be the linchpin for future expansion.

Twenty-First Match day of the Ryxtylopian League 0-1 Marco Tixalva 65' 1-1 Diaxve Barravez 83' Pablo Carraizé 76' 2-0 Andreís Dixilfane 48' + 77' 2-1 Rauíl Disquiverria 63' Enrico Disvixa 85' Marco Liandres 79' 3-2 Marco Indrivanda 41' + 79' Randé Tsilvana 55' Ezicaiel Barvas 50' Andreís Diraberua 70' Marco Indrivanda 88' 2-0 Marco Viraxa 54' + 82' 2-0 Andreís Viriaxa 39' Marco Diarvuna 74' Enrique Rafaela 73' 2-3 Pablo Arvaléz 53' + 74' Julio Indrava 45' + 80' Inzé Fransquixa 67' 0-2 Ezicaiel Xiviscarra 54' + 80' 1-1 Marco Dipartí 65' Ernysto Raivinas 84' 1-4 Rauíl Armatez 90+1' Terado Irrasvasquia 27' + 76' Andreís Richava 54' + 68' Pos. Team. Pld. W D L GF. GA. GD. Pts. 1 Libre 21 19 2 0 57 17 40 59 2 Mytapixas 21 18 1 2 56 17 39 55 3 Rio Priava 21 17 4 0 51 16 35 55 4 Isportivo Ryxenia 21 16 4 1 46 17 29 52 5 Bixas 21 15 3 3 43 18 25 48 6 Raquivas 21 12 6 3 41 22 19 42 7 Myvas 21 12 3 6 31 22 9 39 8 Tsalapaní 21 11 5 5 30 21 9 38 9 Unydo di Vynitiná 21 8 8 5 29 26 3 32 10 Pinichaca 21 9 5 7 24 22 2 32 11 Obriros 21 8 6 7 19 18 1 30 12 U. di Ryxenia 21 8 4 9 24 24 0 28 13 Qixas 21 6 6 9 19 26 -7 24 14 U. di Saxatí 21 6 5 10 23 30 -7 23 15 Cintral Liipica 21 5 4 12 11 26 -15 19 16 San Liarvas 21 5 2 14 16 33 -17 17 17 Ystiandes 20 3 4 13 13 28 -15 13 18 Unydo di Carraizal 21 3 3 15 12 41 -29 12 19 Pinilaca 21 3 2 16 9 38 -29 11 20 Garravas 21 0 8 13 7 26 -19 8 21 Tirilpense 21 1 4 16 10 44 -34 7 22 Ryxtylopiana 20 0 1 19 7 46 -39 1

OOC: Thanks to everybody who showed up for this event❤️ It was a lot of fun planning and executing the event, as well as seeing what everybody had to offer in terms of companies for their own countries. All these companies give life to the RP world and I hope to see a few of them reappear in other stories of the RP. ---Cheers🍻 Jorf @Nouveau

Twenty-Second Match day of the Ryxtylopian League 0-1 Lardo Armatez 73' 1-0 Julio Carreveiza 84' 3-0 Terado Armandí 30' Marco Hiritapa 64' Marco Tixalva 82' 1-2 Emailio Tundas 57' Rauíl Disquerravia 45' + 74' 1-1 Franco Viranpá 77' Theo Isdriva 54' 0-2 Andreís Dixilfane 61' + 79' 1-0 Andreís Diraberua 72' 2-1 Ernysto Disquivarria 50' + 81' Marco Diarvuna 74' 2-2 Enrique Rafaela 46' + 79' Pablo Arvaléz 68' Emailio Taracana 90' 3-0 Inzé Fransquixa 54' Julio Indrava 69' + 75' 2-1 Ezicaiel Xiviscarra 67' + 80' Marco Dipartí 57' Pos. Team. Pld. W D L GF. GA. GD. Pts. 1 Libre 22 19 3 0 58 18 40 60 2 Mytapixas 22 19 1 2 58 17 41 58 3 Rio Priava 22 18 4 0 54 16 38 58 4 Isportivo Ryxenia 22 17 4 1 48 18 30 55 5 Bixas 22 16 3 3 44 18 26 51 6 Raquivas 22 13 6 3 43 23 20 45 7 Tsalapaní 22 12 5 5 31 21 10 41 8 Myvas 22 12 3 7 31 23 8 39 9 Unydo di Vynitiná 22 9 8 5 32 26 6 35 10 Pinichaca 22 9 6 7 26 24 2 33 11 Obriros 22 8 6 8 20 20 0 30 12 U. di Ryxenia 22 8 5 9 25 25 0 29 13 Qixas 22 6 6 10 20 28 -8 24 14 U. di Saxatí 22 6 5 11 23 32 -9 23 15 Cintral Liipica 22 5 4 13 11 27 -16 19 16 San Liarvas 22 5 3 14 18 35 -17 18 17 Ystiandes 21 3 4 14 13 29 -16 13 18 Unydo di Carraizal 22 3 3 16 13 43 -30 12 19 Pinilaca 22 3 2 17 9 41 -32 11 20 Tirilpense 22 2 4 16 12 45 -33 10 21 Garravas 22 0 8 14 7 29 -22 8 22 Ryxtylopiana 21 1 1 19 8 46 -38 4

Part 3: The Grasslands Flags and banners flew high above the Wildelande as two masses of men and might stood opposed to one another. Breastplate and arms shone in the morning light. Men took short breaths in anticipation, kissing small talismans around their necks, and lighting slow wicks for their guns. “Just as we planned,” Captain Leyus said. “My men will hold the center. Bertol, Garek, you two will go into the long grasses and attack them from the sides and behind. You must move fast yet quietly. Attack only when you see the backs of their heads.” The Principality of Saint Mark had been expanding its influence in the Nouveauterran southern coast since 930 AF, however it hadn’t faced a unified force. They would encounter their main adversary for the rest of War in 951. The Langbord Confederacy, headed by the Neberseck. The Confederacy was made of a number of villages, fiefdoms, clan democracies, and semi-nomadic peoples in the grasslands beyond the monsoon ridden coast. This area, often called The Buckle, is a grassland with rich soil and plentiful rainfall, making it easy to live in, but also easy to invade. It was around this time that Markans wrote a number of ethnographic documents. Paired with archeology, and modern cultural anthropology, we can look at the cultural groups present in the Nouveauterran peninsula during the 900s. A historical artistic representation of the Xenoxeno, the "aliens of the alien land." Based on sociological evidence, this group of people came from a migratory era that predates the common Del Ghuldin population encountered by Markans in the 900s. Many Xenoxeno exist today, with cultural festivals and holidays celebrated by their descendants. There's a movement to have their common government name changed to Danav, meaning "of the sea." This name is more commonly used among the descendants. The common language of the Xenoxeno, Dhuku, is most closely related to pre-Bronze age Darkesian-like languages. The Xenoxeno, often nomadic, were some of the last to integrate into Markan, and eventually Nouveauterran society. A historical artistic representation of the Neberseck. Neberseck referred to both people within the official clan systems of the Neberseck, and their subjects. They are a subsection of the Del Ghuldin linguistic-cultural group, and the dominant culture seen in The Buckle during the 900s. Their direct descendants are recognized by the current Nouveauterran government as Viellegulderriene, or Old Guldurian. A historical artistic representation of the Sudermak. This cultural group present on the southern side of the peninsula was formed from itinerant populations of Min-su and Gulderian peoples who co-mingled for some time. This cultural grouping disappeared as Markan influence grew in the area, and its said that the clamping down on piratical sea people by the Markans caused the main economic engine for this group's existence to disappear. Only sparse archeological remnants exist for this group, however they're often referenced in writings from established people groups. A historical artistic representation of 10th century southern Del Ghuldin cultural members, known as Ghulsuldin. This group formed as a result of northern Del Ghuldin peoples who migrated south and encountered pre-existing inhabitants who were related to the Xenoxeno, another people group who had migrated to the peninsula in the 4th century BF. This cultural mixing created a group with both ancient Darkesian, and Dul Ghuldin language markers and structures. They were the dominant cultural group throughout the Nouveauterran peninsula in the 900s, and quickly integrated into the encroaching Markan culture. The Langbord Confederacy was formed with the purpose of protecting the area from mountain marauders and raiders from the jungle. The leading party of the Confederacy was the Neberseck, a massive democratic city at the heart of The Buckle. It had plentiful farming areas, and access to the Bron, a river that went from the mountains all the way to the coast. The Langbord in the Langbord Confederacy came from the area where Neberseck had settled. When the Confederacy heard of the spread of the Aelebach Federation, they began preparing their people for warfare. The Confederacy assembled many soldiers by the year 951, and when the Markans struck out from the forest, they were met with fierce resistance. The first decisive engagement at Goete von Bron in 949 led to a Markan defeat. Captain Andreosus, who had formed the Aelebach Federation in the first place, had died in 946 of black foot disease, now known as gangrene. A series of captains would be run through by the MSTC, with incompetence or lack of experience plaguing the army, as well as many defeats. Captain Leyus Florius, often referred to as Captain Leyus, was new to the MSTC Captain’s Corps, was assigned to lead the warfront in the Nouveauterran heartland. Captain Leyus had been brought on without much hope for success, as the MSTC expected that it would take a long stretch of attrition to defeat The Confederacy. To the leadership it didn't matter if it was a brilliant captain, or a disaster-case, just a warm body was enough. Captain Leyus began his tenure by observing the Langbord Confederacy in combat with other peoples. He noticed that the Langbords utilized highly organized blocks of soldiers with long spears and guns. This was only possible because The Buckle’s terrain of flat land or rolling hills without many trees, and only sparse streams and rivers. This allowed for large formations to move together without many impediments. The combination of many gunners, and pikes to defend them from melee attack meant they could rain lead on the heads of anyone, and go toe to toe with ease. Captain Leyus, upon learning of these tactics, began changing the structure of his army and that of the Aelebach Federation. Swordsmen were given long pikes, and many men were equipped in full body armor. Members of the Federation were equipped solely with long range weapons, and drilled on shooting as groups. Markans were used to more fluid combat, but they were able to adapt to fighting as in formations because of prior high discipline. Bulbi became the way to reference one-eigth of a large formation, while a bulbo was the new way of referencing a large block of soldiers, either gunners or melee fighters. By the end of Leyus’ rapid reforms, the army had evolved to fight like the Langbords except for one exception. Leyus’ and the Aelebach gunners were formed into independent units, able to move on their own to shooting positions. The first battle with this reformed army was at Grenkrümmen in 953 Captain Leyus stood his pikemen at the edge of the forest. The Langbord Confederacy’s 3rd Army was stationed in the field, facing the forest. Two Aelebach captains, only known now as Bertol and Garek, moved their masses of gunners to the flanks utilizing high grasses. The Langbords marched forward with spears lowered and guns firing. Captain Leyus gave orders to his men to crouch down, with spears and halberds still pointed out to the enemy. The gunners, numbering in the thousands, gather along the sides of the Langbord army, creating a crescent around the Langbord army. The Markans made contact with the Langbords. The Aelebach opened fire. Blankets of lead tore apart the Langbords, driving them to rout. Captain Leyus and the Aelebach would utilize this tactic to great effect for the next year, at the battles of Mäuseloch, Kleinerbeken, and Dunkelgrün, without much response from the Langbords. By the end of 955, two years later, the Langbord was severely weakened, and many constituent nations capitulated. The Langbord officially surrendered in the winter of 955, and the surrendering nations were spared the sword. However, they were forced to pay steep war debts for the next 80 years.

Part 2: Tall Palms Emperor Tenebrosus stood with his fists on his hips as he stared at the enormous map table before him. He took up a miniature figure of a soldier with a rifle, and placed it on a blank part of the map. His advisers look up at him with some confusion. “War, Emperor?” an advisor said. “Absolutely,” Emperor Tenebrosus said. “If the reports are true, there is wealth in those fields. Cut out the salesman, and get the sale for ourselves, so to speak.” “Who shall perform the fighting?” the same adviser asked. “The Company of course. We can’t spread ourselves too thin.” The Principality of Saint Mark controlled a burgeoning coastal trading kingdom in Nouveauterra by 929 AF through the Markan Seas Trade Company. The Principality garnered a great deal of wealth in the form of foods, spices, stimulants, and psychedelics. It also had the two major statios of Traiectus and Montes Magnos, as well as many local allies. Emperor Tenebrosus wanted more wealth from this trading venture, and gave the MSTC an expanded mandate: exert direct control over the coast and the interior. Captain Andreosus Mylopopos, commissioned in 928 AF, painted by Aelos Volpes Captain Andreosus, a skilled land and sea fighter for the MSTC, was elevated to the position of Field Marshall, and assigned a retinue of nearly 1000 soldiers in order to complete the task of exerting more control in the region. However, 1000 soldiers was a far cry from even conservative estimates of the required forces. The Emperor wanted thousands upon thousands of miles of jungle, grasslands, and mountain holds under his control. Captain Andreosus began his duties by talking to the locals. The locals of the southern coast were once a part of a Peombroek Confederacy, but the idea fell apart due to apathetic leadership and poor finances. Captain Andreosus took this concept and sold it to the locals once again. With Imperial financial backing, he could easily convince local leaders that their old confederacy would have legs this time. Captain Andreosus gathered together his retinue, local lords, and interested people in the Long House in Aelebach, a short hike beyond the walls of the Montes Magnos statio. The men drew lines on ball and stick maps, and talked numbers in nearly four languages. The men raised their weapons to the air, and shouted AYE in affirmation of the crafted deal after a week's worth of discussion. That shout gave birth to the Aelebach Federation, the nail to Captain Andreosus’ hammer. Captain Andreosus, with the backing of his Aelebach Federation, began to sweep the southern coast and the interior in 930 AF. The Federation contained 1000 trained men-at-arms from the Markan Imperium, 8,000 skirmishers and shock troops known as langeschnäbel, and 2,000 men at the ready from local militias. Markan warfare in the 900s evolved to suit a tropical environment. Combat was performed in loose bulbi, blended units consisting of gunners, halberds, swordsmen, and sometimes even grenadiers. (In order from left to right, a recreation of a 10th century hand-gun, a recreation of a 10th century Markan mercenary sword, and a museum recreation of a 10th century Markan royal halberd, however simplified halberds were more common in the MSTC) Bulbi were flexible and could quickly move through the forest in loose formation, assembling together for a strike in a moment’s notice. The blend of long and short range attack meant a bulbo could cause havoc to whoever it came across. Armor commonly seen on veteran Markan fighters Armor was light, only a helmet, and a breastplate. Some soldiers specializing in close fighting bought steel chaps to protect their legs, however some abandoned armor altogether, such as gunners or lieutenant message runners. Captain Andreosus’ army was composed mostly of this bulbi style, while soldiers of the Aelebach fought in skirmishing formation, blending long distance gunnery and archery together with intermittent close range fighting. Fighting would come in the form of skirmishes for nearly 22 years. Clan or local officials would often capitulate upon seeing Captain Andreosus’ force, however disgruntled or opposed locals would skirmish with the force until they were forced to retreat or died. It took reaching the grasslands in 951 for the Markans to encounter a formidable hostile force, the Neberseck and the Langbord Confederacy.

Log In 21:09 懿月三蓝周 End of the 1424 Yìyuè festival season Today marks the last day of the 1424 Yìyuè celebrations across Sekiya and other starist-aligned nations. For those of you living under a rock, the Yìyuè festival spans the second week of Sekiya's 11th month, Yìyuè. The festival celebrates the supposed birth of Kang, the founder of the starist church. Kang was born on Hǔzhōu, and this is the day that the majority of celebrations take place. This day, second only to the Sekiyan New Year, is the day in which the most fireworks are set off on any day in Sekiya! This year set a new record, with a 48 minute long fireworks display in Xingyuan, the longest ever in Sekiya. The week is considered Sekiya's national holiday. During the week, all schools are closed, and many businesses and shops are closed or open for half a day. Due to this, several other events have been tied into the week. As Yìyuè is also the month dedicated to the diety of Justice, Sekiya's shrines and temples are packed throughout the entire week, as tens of millions across the country seek to improve their standings with the gods, to ensure good dreams throughout Mèngyuè, next month. In this article, we will be covering the traditional week of the Yìyuè Festival. A note for our non-Sekiyan readers: The Sekiyan calendar is very different to the Markan Calendar! Instead of 12 months of varying lengths, the Sekiyan Calendar has 13 months, each with 30 days spread across 4 weeks, except for the 7th month, Yángyuè, which has an extra day as a national holiday on the Sekiyan solstice! The Sekiyan days of the week are Fěnzhōu, Gànzhōu, Lánzhōu, Cuìzhōu, Huángzhōu, Hǔzhōu and Chìzhōu, with Fěnzhōu and Gànzhōu being the two days of the week considered as the 'weekend'. In Sekiya, dates aren't typically written as the number of a month (I.e '20th Yiyue'), instead dates are written as the week and the day (I.e '2 Fěnzhōu' - aka 'Week 2, Fěnzhōu'). 2 Fěnzhōu (7 Apr) & 2 Gànzhōu (8 Apr) Whilst the fesitval hasn't officially started yet, typically people spend these days with their families and preparing stalls and food for the upcoming week. 2 Lánzhōu (9 Apr) 2 Lánzhōu is considered the first day of festivities, and is the day that most festival stalls will open. The majority of all towns and cities will have a 'festival area', with food stalls, gift stalls, outdoor games, and other recreation. 2 Cuìzhōu (10 Apr) On 2 Cuìzhōu, the festivities from the previous day continue. Mainly, people on this day will be worrying about preparing for the next two days of the festival, however on the early evening, cities and big towns will have a precession through the streets, composed of performers, dancers, musicians and other moving displays. 2 Huángzhōu (11 Apr) On 2 Huángzhōu, families tend to have their biggest meal of the year. Traditionally, families will have a 13 course meal, spread across the entire day, from breakfast to bedtime. Different parts of the meal are prepared by different people within the family, and often, neighboring smaller families may join together to share a bigger meal. The tradition of this feast comes from the idea that the population of the country should be well fed and energised in preparation for Kang's birthday. 2 Hǔzhōu (12 Apr) 3 Hǔzhōu is the day that Kang was born, and Sekiya's national day, thus making it the most important day of the week. Many spend the day preparing for the evenings celebrations and attenting to festival stalls. In the evening, the stalls close for around an hour, for the crowds to watch the firework displays. It is said that each year on Kang's birthday, there is a chance that they will be reborn, and so cities and towns host firework displays so that it can be hoped that Kang will be able to find Sekiya and return. 2 Chìzhōu (13 Apr) 3 Chìzhōu is generally a day of rest, however many festival activities will carry over, such as the food stalls, outdoor games etc. for those that missed them. In the evening, to draw an end to the week, many people will attend a viewing of one of Sekiya's many traditional plays. These are done often by Schools, Amatuer theatre groups and professional theatre groups. These plays are between 20-30 minutes long, and are typically based on ancient literatary works in Sekiya, and feature storytelling, music and dance. One of the popular stories told through play, written around a millenia ago in Sekiya, tells the tale of a young scholar on their journey to the Sekiyan capital to find greatness. Along the way, the scholar encounters a diverse array of people that challenge his original views on life, teaching him the importance of society, family and home. Upon reaching the capital, the scholar meets the emperor and is offered a position in the imperial court, however the scholar refuses, deciding that his place is instead back at his home village with his family. The play is unique in that the main character in the story is ambiguous, perhaps intended to allow the reader/watcher to fill the shoes of the protagonist. The tale is by far the most acted play in Sekiya. 3 Fěnzhōu (14 Apr) & 3 Gànzhōu (15 Apr) Whilst the holiday is at this point, officially over, 3 Fěnzhōu and 3 Gànzhōu are not typically working days in Sekiya, meaning many people have these days off! Across these days, there is a big effort into the cleanup of the Yìyuè festival. Additionally, as the 'last chance' before returning to work, many will take one last visit to a shrine or a temple. There is also lots of charitable work done on these days. 3 Lánzhōu (16 Apr) 3 Lánzhōu marks the first day back to work and school for Sekiyans. With less than 2 months to go until the Sekiyan new year, students and workers alike will find the next several weeks to go quickly in the lead up to Sekiya's next big festival week.

The dikahnawadvsdi aninotlvsgi iyunadai has passed a bill that, if approved, will grant the Royal Aviation Administration the power to regulate the prices of airline tickets. People worry that these regulations will make air travel less affordable as the price of tickets would no longer change with market while supporters of the bill believe it would allow Zoranian airlines to focus on quality of travel and quality of service on their airline flights which would allow airlines to compete with each other over the quality of their service domestically and internationally. Opposition to the bill believe that these prices would cripple the Zoranian aviation industry as Zoranian airlines would not be able to compete with the potentially lower prices of the international market. "It's no longer the 1360s," says Lawmaker Tsosie of the Republican Action Party, "the Zoranian economy is more connected to the international market than back then where regulations like this were to help make a new industry a viable option for travel. But now the aviation industry is a huge part of the global economy that has flourished under its deregulation and its ability to set its own price based on supply and demand. By enforcing these regulations upon the industry, we are likely to see Zoranian airlines be unable to compete with the international market and thus potentially risk an entire industry in our economy along with the thousands of jobs it supplies for potentially a higher quality of service that is not guaranteed." Regardless, this bill will not become law until the Queen gives her approval on it but this hasn't stopped Zoranian airlines from scrambling as they seek to draft plans for if the regulations pass.

Akachi the Unfaithful Part 1 The birth of Akachi The city of Afihadume ruled over the surrounding hills, which bore the same name. In this city stood a large statue standing seventy cubits, who acted as the god of the people of the city. Made of polished onyx stone and beset with precious gems, its head was that of an ox, and its body was that of a mighty man in a seated position with its legs crossed. A 14-cubit obelisk inlaid with gold was located between the statue's legs, which the women offered flowers to daily. At daybreak, the sun would rise between the horns on top of its head, and the people would worship the statue for bringing forth the day, and at sunset, a chosen maiden would sleep beneath the obelisk all through the night to entice the god to return the day. The name of this god was Fames, ruler of the sun and sky, and the people swore by Fames; when they went to war, they fought and died in the name of Fames; and when two youths joined in marriage, they were blessed by Fames. There were thirteen other gods that could be found in the night sky in the appropriate season; they also served the people of the city, but Fames was above them all. And a law was passed that every house was to have an idol of Fames before they would be allowed to place any other god, idol, or shrine in their house, and if one broke this law, the entire household would be locked within, and the house would be set ablaze. One of the Priests of Fames was a man named Yobanna who had six sons: the oldest was Mazzi, born of Amara, a princess from the north; the second was Yelani, born to Edele, the daughter of a merchant; the third was Akachi, born to Nkiru, a captive harlot who served Yobanna for a year before being sold; the fourth and fifth were Diyi and Izuchukwu, the brothers of Mazzi, all sharing the same mother; and the youngest was Akumjyeli, the brother of Yelani. Yobanna also had three daughters, the oldest being Chidi, the sister of Yelani and Akumjyeli, born of Edele, and twin girls named Chinaza and Chineze, sisters to Mazzi, Diyi, and Izuchukwu, born of Amara. All the children of Yobanna were educated by the priest to know the seasons and the stars, history, and herbalism. Whenever one of his children showed interest in something, Yobanna would seek out a teacher for his children to learn from. All of them but Akachi. On the night of Akachi's birth, stars fell from heaven, terrifying the people. One such star fell and struck the head of Fame, destroying it and causing the head to crush the obelisk. When the star struck the head, it broke in two, one piece destroying a portion of the king's house and the other landing harmlessly on the door step of Yobanna; at that exact moment, the child crowned and broke free of his mother. Fearing the people would attach meaning to this, Yobanna quickly hid the piece under his home. Upon entering the house and looking upon his son with great joy, he named him Akachi, meaning "the hand of God." He then beckoned the mother and child to leave for a safe place as flames began to spread across the city. The next morning, after the fires had been put out, the King of the city, Uwaezuoke, called all his advisors, all the wise men of the city, and all the priests together. Uwaezuoke was a mighty warrior, undefeated in battle. He and his army conquered the hills of Afihadume and all the land surrounding it, making his name known far and wide. As the men gathered into the remains of the king's home, Uwaezuoke spoke to them, saying, "It is no small thing that has befallen us. If we have angered the gods, one of you must know, and if it is a sign to warn, you would also know this. Tell me of this thing so that we may deal with it accordingly." After this, one of the wise men stepped forward and said, "My king, you are wise in knowing it to be a sign, for we all saw the heavens move in the night before. I tell you this is a sign of destructive change to come to us in the future." The Wiseman continues, "Your home being struck means an end to your rule, and the heads of Fames being destroyed marks an end to our city; we must find the cause and root it out. This will appease Fames and the other gods of heaven so that they may spare your rule and our city." At the very end of the wise man's speech, the king's advisor, Ndidi, saw Yobanna standing in the back of the room and spoke up, "My king, is it known that the star broke in two? One piece struck your home, but where did the other go?" Ndidi points toward Yobanna and says, "I tell you, my king, I saw the other piece land harmlessly at the door of Yobanna and seen him hide it under his house." At these words, the king became furious, standing up and calling Yobanna forward. "Is this true, Yobanna? Did you hide this from us?" Yobanna knew this could be the end of his house if he misspoke, so he chose his word carefully: "My king, it is true I hide the piece that befell onto my house; I wished to keep it, for in the moment I believed it to be of worth, but this was done without knowing of the god's intentions, for I knew nothing of the wise man's insight." At this, Ndidi interjected, "A son was born to Yobanna last night. As soon as the piece stopped at his door, I heard the cry of the child come forth; maybe it is not Yobanna who has grieved the gods, but his son." At this, all the men agreed, Yobanna was innocent; devote just as them, and advised the king to judge the child instead to spare the city. Surprisingly, the piece did land at Yobanna's door. So they began to make wild stories about the child not being a child of man but an evil servant of the gods who had to escape the judgment of Fames and heaven. The king, after hearing their stories, looked at Yobanna with kindness and said, "Bring me the child that I may judge him, for I am wise and will know if he is guilty, or if we have mistaken in our insights, do this, and I will gift to you the piece that fell onto my house." With these words, Yobanna knew the king would kill the child, but held it within himself and left to retrieve his son, for it was better that his son die than for his entire household to be locked in and put to flame. As Yobanna walked, waxing heavily in grief to the place Nkiru went with his son, he saw a servant girl bathing with her child close by, sleeping in a basket. The child was a boy no more than a few days old, and surely the king would not know the difference. Without thought, Yobanna stole the child and quietly escaped, making sure to take his time to get back to the king, as he wanted them to believe he walked the whole distance to the place his child was. Upon entering the room, the king's guards seized Yobanna, and the king took the child. As the king uncovered the young child to look at him, at this moment the baby cried forth, and for a moment the king kneeled on the ground near the fire pit, staring at it. "Guilty!" he exclaimed as he took the child by the foot and dashed it onto the ground until it was dead. At this, Yobanna wept, as he knew the child was innocent, and as a fact, he was guilty. The king rose up and tossed the body into the pit before sitting upon his throne. "I know you grieve the child, but he was not a man-child, but an evil bringing destruction to us. You have other sons. Take the piece that fell upon my house and be calm, for your house is now safe from judgment." Ndidi handed the piece to Yobanna, saying, "Take it and leave, or your sorrow may anger the king." With these words, Yobanna left again to the place where his son was still hidden. When Yobanna arrived, he picked up his son with great fear and mourning. He then told Nkiru the mother all that happened, called his kinsmen Ozioma, and told him of the matter, for though he was Yobanna's kinsmen, he was not raised in the city and cared not of Fames nor the king. Yobanna gave Ozioma silver and gold, and against the wishes of Nkiru, she also gave Akachi the child, to be taken far from the hills of Afihadume, so that he would be safe from the king. Ozioma's wife Mayowa had given birth months before to a daughter; she was her first and could feed the child. At this, Nkiru wept as her son would not know her. The morning of the next day, Ozioma and his wife escaped the city with just a donkey packed with some grain and food to hide the gold and silver, and the two young children before morning light. Nkiru, over time, became embittered with Yobanna, no longer wishing to be his concubine, and was sold to return as a harlot shortly after. She never spoke of what Yobanna had done, for she feared the king greatly and believed he would seek after her son. She also held out hope that one day her son would return, and so she kept the secret within herself. Nkiru never had any more children. This story is heavily inspired by canon and non-canon biblical stories.

Finally, you see that someone updated the last empty hall of the economic expo. Unfortunately, the only change is a note that follows: We regretfully report that the LIPS exposition could not arrive at the time for the event due to post office delays. We apologise for the inconvenience. — Lzecov Islands Post Service Industry: infrastructure (Day 1) Country: Lzecov Islands

Welcome to the ultimate travel guide to all regions of Giovanniland! We are a family of eager travelers who have visited a multitude of nations of Esferos, experienced wonderful adventures, and met many great people along the way! Now, we wish to help others uncover the passion of travel by writing all about our home country, for all kinds of tourists. For each region of the country, we'll start with some important facts you should know, introduce the subdivisions and describe the major cities. Then there's the best part, which is to share with you our favorite places, travel tips, beautiful images, and much more! The guide starts in Giovannia, the capital and also our home city, alongside its associated region called Giovannia Magna. From there, we'll explore the other regions of the country, and embark on this great journey—and we hope that you join us! - The Firkellio Family

Official statement regarding the suspension of the Ryxtylopiana-Ystiandes match This is an official statement from the Ryxtylopian Football Federation, regarding the suspension of the match between Ryxtylopiana and Ystiandes on the 20th matchday of the first stage of the First National League. INCIDENT REPORT: During the match between clubs: Unyon Ryxtylopiana, and Club di Diporte Ystiandes di Ryxtylopia, an unfortunate incident occurred were, proyectiles including rocks, bottles, and a few flares were thrown by the local supporters towards the visiting team's players after an inapropriate goal celebration was done in the 68th minute by visiting player Dinco Arvález towards the local supporters. The action by the local supporters in the Diportivo Ryxtylopiano Stadium forced the referee to stop, and later call off the match for security reasons by the 70th minute, no injuries have been reported on either side, however behavior like this from supporters is unacceptable due to the risk of injury to players from both teams and, however the actions of the visiting team are being reviewed to confirm if said actions were provocative towards the local team. MEASURES TAKEN: The match will be suspended until further notice, while representatives from both clubs discuss the situation, as well as allowing sport authorities to review the case, to see if further action will be taken. The preliminary review shows the actions of the home team supporters to be unacceptable, but also find actions by the visiting team to be provocative, and that the player from the visiting team that made the provocatory goal celebration knew the potential mesage they were sending to the home fans with said goal celebration. As per concrete action, the measure being currently considered is a fine towards the local team and the temporary suspension of the offender from the visiting team, any further action will be reported through official means in the next days. We apologize for the inconvinience, this is a necessary measure from the RFF to promote good sportsmanship and protect both players and supporters from both teams.

Twentieth Match day of the Ryxtylopian League 1-1 Marco Disvartía 64' Pablo Carraizé 75' 0-1 Esteban Invaras 69' 2-1 Julian Firverria 50' Franco Viranpá 70' Rauíl Barravez 83' 2-1 Rauíl Disquiverria 62' Randé Tsilvana 80' Theo Isdriva 76' 4-0 Ezicaiel Barvas 26' + 54' + 68' Marco Indrivanda 82' 2-0 Tincho Richava 43' Marco Viraxa 78' 1-2 Andreís Viriaxa 81' Luque Pirrava 51' Julio Indrava 73' 1-1 Emailio Taracana 76' Ezicaiel Xiviscarra 64' 1-0 Viarre Findierra 71' 1-1 Marco Tixalva 75' Lardo Armatez 56' - / - [GAME SUSPENDED] Proyectiles thrown on the pitch. Pos. Team. Pld. W D L GF. GA. GD. Pts. 1 Libre 20 18 2 0 55 16 39 56 2 Mytapixas 20 17 0 2 53 15 38 52 3 Rio Priava 20 16 4 0 48 14 34 52 4 Isportivo Ryxenia 20 15 4 1 44 17 27 49 5 Bixas 20 14 3 3 39 17 22 45 6 Raquivas 20 11 6 3 39 21 18 39 7 Tsalapaní 20 11 5 4 28 15 13 38 8 Myvas 20 12 2 6 29 20 9 38 9 Pinichaca 20 9 5 6 22 19 3 32 10 Unydo di Vynitiná 20 7 8 5 28 26 2 29 11 U. di Ryxenia 20 8 4 8 24 22 2 28 12 Obriros 20 7 6 7 16 18 -2 27 13 U. di Saxatí 20 6 5 9 22 28 -6 23 14 Qixas 20 5 6 9 18 26 -8 21 15 Cintral Liipica 20 5 4 11 11 25 -14 19 16 San Liarvas 20 5 2 13 16 30 -14 17 17 Ystiandes 19 3 4 12 13 27 -14 13 18 Pinilaca 20 3 2 15 11 39 -28 11 19 Unydo di Carraizal 20 2 2 15 9 40 -28 11 20 Garravas 20 0 7 13 6 25 -19 7 21 Tirilpense 20 1 3 16 8 42 -34 6 22 Ryxtylopiana 19 0 1 18 6 42 -36 1

A look into the league - Part 3, Matchdays 13-18. After a short animated introduction, the scene opens in the TVNC studio, with Liandre and Xiava already at the desk. [Liandre]: I don't think- [Xiava]: We should just start, he'll have a new excuse for us later. [Liandre]: Alright, good evening everybody! Its time for our third transmission of this little program we have running. [Xiava]: Lots of changes since last look, the table has been all over the place, yet the gap between the top 8 and the rest just keeps widening, but as it seems the top 8 themselves are having their own clash for the top 4 and bottom 4 spots. [Liandre]: That's probably the best way to put it, Rio Priava have lost their top spot after several draws, now Libre leads! Mytapixas after amaizing attacks have gotten the second spot, tied with Rio Priava, and Isportivo despite what many would say is proving to NOT be a "small" club in this competition! [Xiava]: There's a lot to cover so we should get started. [Liandre]: Well, like we already said, Priava lost the lead, they now have 15 wins and 4 draws, but they are still yet to lose a match, just like Libre who also haven't lost any matches yet and are now in the lead with an absolutley DEADLY attack! 48 goals! [Xiava]: Libre's and Mytapixas attacks are the best in the league so far, they are too fierce, and force their opponents on the defensive, which can help their own defenses rest and not get overwhealmed when the time to defend comes. [Liandre]: Lots of similarities between those two there, while Priava seek more possetion-focused play, rather than constantly applying pressure to their rivals, they spend a lot of time in the midfield, but it also seems to be working, despite the recent games. [Xiava]: Out of the top 4, id say Isportivo is the most balanced, but they still have an impressive ammount of goals. [Liandre]: They're not to be underestimated. [Xiava]: Now for the largest club here: Bixas! They have fortunatley rescued their season from the mediocre start, and as of far could get to the top 4. [Liandre]: Raquivas, Tsalapaní and Myvas round up the top 8! Tsalapaní and Myvas had mediocre starts but they managed their way into the top 8. Pablo bursts into the room hurrying for the chair before slipping on the floor and falling. [Pablo]: Im he- OW! [Liandre]: Well just what we needed Chuckle [Xiava]: Talk about an entrance... [Pablo]: Just shut up... What were you on about when i got here? [Liandre]: Taking the route down the hill, just exited the top 8, looking at the rest of the teams! [Pablo]: Oh alright. [Xiava]: Pinichaca and Obriros, are two clubs that for a while got into the top 8, they seem to be trying to get back. [Pablo]: Pinichaca plays decently, and obriros has a massive advantage with their stadium being so high up, they have a really large home advantage, but outside of their comfort zone they do struggle, and they only do few goals per game. [Liandre]: Behind them i think other notable clubs are Vynytiná, Qixas, and both of the U's having mediocre seasons. [Pablo]: Id say they're doing a decent job of staying on the mid-table and Vynitiná is making their way up, Qixas is starting to struggle. [Xiava]: Liarvas is on a rollercoaster down, while Liípica rescued points, as we now join the stands to view the relegation race! [Liandre]: Well, Ystiandes seems to have joined the race and after that, Carraizal has done the impossible, recovering from their terrible streak, now 2 spots above relegation! Under them Pinilaca hasn't been doing to well, and Garravas can only get draws, no wins so far, they are on the edge, as below them we enter the relegation zone, with Tirilpense trying as they may to get out of there! [Pablo]: And then... Ryxtylopiana, only 1 sad draw, if they dont pull a Carraizal they are going to the B. [Xiava]: Yeahhh, its going to be complicated for them. [Pablo]: And that rounds up the table so far! Now its time for goals, assists and saves! The Screen Changes to a table of the top goalscorers: Player Team Goals Scored Inzé Fransquixa Rio Priava 18 Rauíl Disquerravia Isportivo Ryxenia 17 Ezicaiel Barvas Mytapixas 17 Andreís Richava Bixas 16 Rauíl Disquiverria Libre 16 Andreís Dixilfane Mytapixas 15 Terado Irrasvasquia Bixas 14 Julian Firverria Isportivo Ryxenia 14 Ezicaiel Xiviscarra Raquivas 14 Julio Indrava Rio Priava 14 [Liandre]: Its amaizing how many of the scorers there are in the top 4 teams, again: Libre and Mytapixas have some of the best attacks so far, and so do Priava, Isportivo and Bixas in 5th place. [Pablo]: And i got a surprise for you, next time around this list wont be 10 long... [Xiava]: You don't mean? [Pablo]: Mhm, but that's until next time. [Liandre]: Well i can wait, but i have to say ill be on the lookout to see how many people get on that list. [Pablo]: Well its just one list, we can't forget about the assists! The Screen Changes to a table of the top assisters: Player Team Goals Assisted Andreís Yirapa Libre 25 Luque Pirrava Rio Priava 24 Lardo Armatez Bixas 23 Enrico Irrasvasquia Mytapixas 23 Andreís Irrestafica Isportivo Ryxenia 22 [Pablo]: A lot of tied players, that the list doesn't show, but it still gives you an idea, usually more goals also means more assists. [Liandre]: Mhm, you know a lot of theese players could make their way to other leagues, considering the top teams in the world usually already have good forwards and strikers, but ocationally lack other players. [Xiava]: That's true. [Pablo]: It is, still don't know where theese players might head off to. [Liandre]: Neither do i, but there's one last list we need to look at. [Pablo]: On it... Finally, the list of top goalkeepers shows up on screen: Player Team Saves Andreís Yirapa Tsalapaní 23 Isidro Darrias Raquivas 22 Marco Valandrés Bixas 20 Julian Xirvés Unydo di Vynitiná 18 Tincho Quilivixas Myvas 17 [Pablo]: Its interesting how its mainly tables from the mid-table that have the best performing GK's so far, but it makes sense when you start to consider how dominant the top table teams have been. [Liandre]: That Myvas-Raquivas game was REALLY intense! Goals and saves everywhere! [Xiava]: I got to watching it too, it was incredibly action-packed. [Pablo]: And how do you think the next 6 days will play out? [Liandre]: I see the battle in the top 4 continuing, so far its been a pretty intense one to see who can stay on top, whilst i personally will be paying more attention to the mid-table brawl. [Xiava]: Honestly i think we have our rough-ish order for which teams will go through, so its mostly the mid-table brawl and the relegation race for me, but its still going to be interesting. [Pablo]: Alright, well- [Liandre]: That's my line Pablo... [Pablo]: Come on let me end this on a high no- [Liandre]: AND THAT WILL BE ALL FOR NOW! As always thanks for watching our program and we'll all see you next time around where we'll have a few guests invited here! [Pablo]: Why are you like this. Finally the camera zooms away as Xiava and Liandre chuckle at Pablo's misfortune of never being able to arrive in time, as the transmission soon changes to ads.

This forum is a collaborative series between @Nouveau and @Saint Mark to write about the shared history between the Commonwealth of Nouveauterra and the Principality of Saint Mark, from 890 AF to 1104 AF. Posts will be in semi-chronological order detailing the history between the two nations.

Nineteenth Match day of the Ryxtylopian League 0-2 Esteban Invaras 64' + 79' 1-2 Diaxve Barravez 85' Tincho Disquiverria 52' Dranve Ixilva 76' 2-2 Julian Firverria 48' Andreís Diraberua 63' Rauíl Barravez 81' Randé Tsilvana 74' (P) Rauíl Disquerravia 74' 5-1 Rauíl Disquiverria 21' + 45' Ernysto Disquivarria 71' Marco Liandres 56' Andreís Diavarra 67' + 78' 2-0 Marco Indrivanda 54' Ezicaiel Barvas 77' 2-3 Marco Viraxa 62' Luque Pirrava 36' Andreís Diaxilva 83' Julio Indrava 57' Inzé Fransquixa 74' Enrico Vilaña 60' 2-2 Marco Diarvuna 50' Ezicaiel Xiviscarra 42' Andreís Viriaxa 79' Theo Dixilfane 68' 1-0 Pablo Arvaléz 71' 0-1 Ernysto Raivinas 64' 1-3 Pablo Carraizé 75' Lardo Armatez 39' Andreís Richava 58' + 79' 3-1 Marco Hiritapa 41' + 65' Julio Carreveiza 88' Marco Tixalva 80' Pos. Team. Pld. W D L GF. GA. GD. Pts. 1 Libre 19 17 2 0 53 15 38 53 2 Mytapixas 19 16 0 2 49 15 34 49 3 Rio Priava 19 16 4 0 46 13 33 49 4 Isportivo Ryxenia 19 14 4 1 42 16 26 46 5 Bixas 19 14 2 3 38 16 22 44 6 Raquivas 19 11 5 3 38 21 17 38 7 Tsalapaní 19 11 5 3 27 16 11 38 8 Myvas 19 11 2 6 27 20 7 35 9 Pinichaca 19 9 4 6 21 18 3 31 10 Unydo di Vynitiná 19 7 7 5 27 25 2 28 11 Obriros 19 7 5 6 15 16 -2 27 12 U. di Ryxenia 19 7 4 8 23 22 1 25 13 U. di Saxatí 19 6 5 8 21 26 -5 23 14 Qixas 19 5 6 8 18 25 -7 21 15 Cintral Liipica 19 5 3 11 10 24 -14 18 16 San Liarvas 19 5 2 12 16 28 -12 17 17 Ystiandes 19 3 4 12 13 27 -14 13 18 Unydo di Carraizal 19 3 1 15 10 39 -29 10 19 Pinilaca 19 2 2 15 8 36 -28 8 20 Garravas 19 0 7 12 6 24 -18 7 21 Tirilpense 19 1 3 15 8 38 -30 6 22 Ryxtylopiana 19 0 1 18 6 42 -36 1

ARIFIANS CELEBRATE EID TODAY Kampong Besar - Yesterday, the Department of Islamic Affairs announced the date of Eid falling on April 10, 1424, which is today, after the new moon was seen using a high-resolution telescope. Hari Raya is a festival celebrated by Muslims in Arifiyyah, which includes 97% of the entire population. Sultan Arif Nazim Shah with his son Tengku Ali Nazim has agreed to pray at the Great Mosque of Kampong Besar, Kota Kampong. Sultan Arif also led the Eid prayer and also delivered a sermon. Also present were Tun Bendahara Arifiyyah, Tun Rais Zuhdi and also several ministers. "The main purpose of celebrating Eid is to forgive and accept forgiveness. So I call on all Arifians, regardless of wealth and religious background, to forgive each other", His Majesty ordered. His Majesty Sultan Arif also gave raya money to the children who attended the mosque before leaving for Istana Lama Arifiyyah to inaugurate the first open house ceremony. We at Arifiyyah's Times taking our moment to wish Eid Mubarak to all readers that celebrate. May this Eid be the best day of your life. Sultan Arif Nazhim Shah leading the Eid prayer Moment of His Majesty Sultan and children of Kampong Besar

Eighteenth Match day of the Ryxtylopian League 1-0 Marco Disvartía 72' Andreís Disvixinia 69' 0-2 Andreís Diraberua 51' Randé Tsilvana 76' 3-0 Rauíl Disquerravia 15' Rauíl Barravez 49' Julian Firverria 77' 2-0 Rauíl Disquiverria 39' Theo Isdriva 74' 2-2 Marco Indrivanda 67' Inzé Fransquixa 50' + 83' Ezicaiel Barvas 79' Julio Viesquelí 40' Franco Lisquerva 71' Marco Lyvandxe 82' 3-3 Tincho Richava 52' Theo Dixilfane 42' + 68' Andreís Diaxilva 61' Andreís Indrava 85' Marco Viraxa 78' Pablo Viandé 54' Isidro Darrias 77' 1-1 Marco Diarvuna 61' Marco Dipartí 74' 3-1 Pablo Arvaléz 54' + 79' Viarre Findierra 86' Emailio Taracana 65' 1-2 Esteban Invaras 50' Andreís Richava 43' Terado Irrasvasquia 76' 2-1 Pablo Carraizé 59' Rauíl Armatez 77' Emailio Tundas 81' 2-1 Marco Hiritapa 63' Dinco Arvaléz 87' Terado Armandí 78' Pos. Team. Pld. W D L GF. GA. GD. Pts. 1 Libre 18 16 2 0 48 14 34 50 2 Mytapixas 18 15 0 2 47 15 32 46 3 Rio Priava 18 15 4 0 43 11 32 46 4 Isportivo Ryxenia 18 14 3 1 40 14 26 45 5 Bixas 18 13 2 3 35 15 20 41 6 Raquivas 18 11 4 3 36 19 17 37 7 Tsalapaní 18 10 4 3 25 14 11 37 8 Myvas 18 11 2 5 25 17 8 35 9 Pinichaca 18 8 4 6 20 18 2 28 10 Obriros 18 7 4 6 13 14 -1 26 11 Unydo di Vynitiná 18 6 7 5 24 24 0 25 12 U. di Ryxenia 18 6 4 8 21 22 -1 22 13 Qixas 18 5 6 7 18 24 -6 21 14 U. di Saxatí 18 5 5 8 19 25 -6 20 15 Cintral Liipica 18 5 3 10 10 22 -12 18 16 San Liarvas 18 5 2 11 16 26 -10 17 17 Ystiandes 18 2 4 12 12 27 -15 10 18 Unydo di Carraizal 18 3 1 14 9 36 -27 10 19 Pinilaca 18 2 2 14 8 35 -27 8 20 Garravas 18 0 7 11 5 22 -17 7 21 Tirilpense 18 1 3 14 7 33 -26 6 22 Ryxtylopiana 18 0 1 17 5 39 -34 1

WIP Nalibian Holidays, Holy Days and other Celebrations Every nation has its unique or even shared special occasions unto itself. Nalibia is no different in this regard; 1 holy day is kept once a week and another which is kept once a month. There are 3 holy days that are dedicated to their god EUEI that are kept once a year, and 5 holidays which are unique to its people in form or the way it is held; which are also kept yearly. Lastly there is 1 holiday in the nation that is celebrated ever 7 years. An important note however is that due to Nalibia's location at the equator the seasons of Spring, Summer, Fall and winter don't really translate. The year is simply divided into four quarters of alternating wet and dry seasons, and the Nalibian months are numbered 1st through 12th, starting in their first wet season. Finally a 13th month is added to the calendar every 3 years for the same function that the Markan calendar includes leap years. Weekly and Monthly Holy Days 7th day rest: Considered one of the most holy observances, every 7th day starting from the New Moon. Work is not done on this day. In observance to their belief of a six day creation, the people of Nalibia do not work on this day. Only first responders and essential jobs still work on these days; for this reason today Nalibia implemented a two day weekend assuring that those whom had to work the official 7th day would be allowed a day off on the following. On the official 7th day all stores and businesses are closed, but they are allowed to reopened the following day. However, non-essential government buildings and banks will not reopen until the 2nd day of the week. The New Moon Festival: The New Moon is a holy day, and is the first day of Nalibia's month. The Priesthood of Nalibia will gather at the Elder High Temple to present to their god EUEI a burnt offering of two young bulls, one ram and seven male lambs of one year in age each, all without defect. Each of the animal sacrifices was to be accompanied by a grain offering and a drink offering. In addition to burnt offerings, a goat is to be sacrificed to EUEI as a sin offering. The New Moon festival mark the consecration to their god each new month through the year. New Moon festivals are treated as a 7th day, and are marked by sacrifices, the blowing of horns over the sacrifices, and social or family feasts. On this day all non-essential government buildings and banks are closed. Yearly Holidays, Holy Days and Celebrations (April, May and June) Nalibian New Year: This day is observed on the last night of the previous year thru the first day of the new; marking a New Year in Nalibia. This day is treated the same as a New Moon Festival; making it a holy day, only with grander feast as good old times are shared with friends and close family. When the sun fully sets horns are blown in celebration of the New Year accompanied by fireworks in great spectacular fashion at twilight. On this day all non-essential government buildings and banks are closed. Ifeoma: Ifeoma was the first wife of Akachi, and the first to be taught and accept the ways of EUEI by him. This holiday is celebrated as lover's day, and is observed on the 13th day of the 2nd month. This day is set aside most for women acknowledging all they do to strengthen the men they love and/or care about. Chocolate, sweets, and flowers are the traditional gifts to give to your love interest on this day, as it is a day set aside for romance and love. Festivals of Red are held all around the Empire in every city and town at this time for couples and those hoping to find love. Activities such as watching performances, winning carnival prizes or riding fair rides as well as sampling special foods that only come out for the festival are the pass times of this holiday. On this day government buildings and banks are open. Tournament of Fist: Every 7 years this celebration is held on the 1st week of the 3rd month, A Nalibian city is chosen to host, a hand to hand combat tournament. Every nation of the world is invited to send three warriors to represent their nation in this mix martial arts tournament. The main tournament last one week and every night of the tournament a large feast is held as well as a live musical performance except on the 7th day. The Tournament of Fist has become a major world attraction bringing tourist from around the world to witness and participate in the tournament. Today the winner is given 20 million Shenar and a crown of Steel lined with Gold with an engraving of the champion's name and year of the competition. Their Bust is then fixed in the Hall of Heroes in the Temple of Knowledge, and lastly the Emperor will officially offer the champion the position of being the Imperial Champion; whose job it is to act on the Emperor's behalf in Trails by Combat as well as be his personal bodyguard. This position comes with a hefty salary and plenty of benefits. Today the Tournament of Fist also host 34 other events which take place 2 weeks before and continue during the main event. Events such as gymnastics, track and field, and shooting competitions to name a few. Awards are given in these events for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners with a gold, silver or bronze medal and a cash prizes of 1 million, 500 thousand, and 250 thousand Shenar to those who place respectively. On these days all government buildings and banks are open. (July, August and September) Visiting Night: This holy day is observed on the 15th day of the 4th month of the year, Nalibinites celebrate the day Akachi was given "Truth". On the 8th day of the month a sacred assembly is held by all citizens regardless of status or ethnicity save for the men whom are uncircumcised (as they have not accepted "Truth"), and another on the 15th day. No work is done at all on these two days; except first responders, military, essential personal and those needed to prepare food for everyone to eat on the 14th night. On these two days all non-essential government building and banks are closed. Fasting begins on the 8th day for all men of Nalibia, and last until the eating of the lamb or goat on the 14th night. On the tenth day of the fourth month each man is to take a lamb or goat for his family, one for each household. If any household is too small for a whole lamb or goat, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people there are. They are to determine the amount of lambs or goats needed in accordance with what each person will eat. On the 14th day the lamb or goat of 1 year in age without defect is sacrificed at midnight. That same night they are to eat the lamb or goat roasted over the fire with its head and legs all attached, along with bitter herbs, sweet bread baked without yeast, and red wine outside under the stars. The meat is not allowed to be prepared in any other way. None of the meat is to be left till morning, and if some is; then it is buried. No leavened bread is sold, bought or consumed for these 7 days. During the feast the Nalibinite people minister to all about the goodness and blessings of EUEI and how their god came to Akachi to teach him The Holy Law. (October, November and December) Festival of Lights: Held on the 6th Night of the 7th month of the year, Hero's Day is a holiday dedicated to men and women who have died in service to Nalibia. On this night a lantern is lite and released into the sky, or on paper boats in memory of a love one that was lost at war. Families will typically feast outside on this day and offer a burnt sacrifice of a Dove or Pigeon to their god EUEI. Military Parades and demonstrations are also held on the main street of towns and cities during the day. On this day all non-essential government buildings and banks are closed. Harvest Day: Held on the 21st day of the 8th month of the year. This holiday is held in two ways. If the season brought a good harvest, or your family had a good year then the family holds a feast. But if the family had a poor harvest, or a bad year then it is a day of fasting and reflection. Both families will make a sacrifice of Grain to EUEI and pray, asking for a good following year and giving thanks for what they have as well as think each other for allowing EUEI to work through family and friends to help them through difficult times. On this day all non-essential government buildings and banks are closed. Horfun: Horfun means Parents Giving, and this holiday is observed on the 20th day of the 9th month. This day parents give gifts to their children to teach them about charity, wishing and bringing others joy, being merry and jolly, and making it a year to remember with friends and loved ones. This celebration accompanies a large feast as extended families gather together at their eldest father's home. A dove or pigeon is offered as a Burnt sacrifice to EUEI, and an animal from the flock is typically eaten for the feast. On this day all non-essential government buildings and banks are closed. (January, February and March) Day of Atonement: This holy day is observed on the 10th day of the 10th month as the day of atonement for sins. Nalibinites call it the Holy of holy days, and it is treated as a 7th day upon which one must afflict one's soul. Its central themes are atonement and repentance. Nalibinite people traditionally observe this holy day with an approximate 25-hour period of fasting, intensive prayer, giving to charity, and making amends with family, friends and neighbors. Most Nalibinites go to their local temple and sing with the choir as all broadcast stations except local and national news are shut down for the day. On this day there is no eating and drinking, no wearing of leather shoes, only wearing cotton and wool, no bathing or washing, no anointing oneself with perfumes or lotions and no marital relations. Unlike most other Nalibian holy days there is no feast or celebrations as this day is set apart to show humility before EUEI. On this day all non-essential government buildings and banks are closed. The Gathering: This seven-day holiday is held on the 2nd week of the 11th month of the year. Each of the 7 days is dedicated to a Nalibian principle. The whole of communities gather together usually in the center of their town to fellowship with one another. The first day is Faith: To believe with all our hearts in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our faith in EUEI. The second day is Unity: To strive for and to maintain unity in the family, community, faith and nation. The third day is Self-Determination: To define and name ourselves, as well as to create and speak for ourselves, and also be an example of the blessings that comes with service and obedience to EUEI. The forth day is Collective Work and Responsibility: To build and maintain our community together and make our brothers' and sisters' problems our problems and to solve them together in observance to the laws of EUEI. The fifth day is Cooperative Economics: To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses, and to profit from and with them together. The sixth day is Purpose: To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our Nation in order to maintain the greatness of our people, and to be “a light of righteousness to all nations”. The seventh night is on the 7th day, and all the observances of the 7th day are in affect. It's Principle is Creativity: To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community and Nation more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it from our fathers. This day ends with a family prayer and marks the end of the gathering. On these days all non-essential government buildings and banks work half the day. Province Celebrations Besides the Holy days and Celebrations mentioned above which are kept though out the whole of the Empire, there is also Celebrations that are unique to individual provinces or which are observed at different times. Royal Birthdays: In Nalibia the birthdays of Royals are celebrated as Province Holidays. The celebration begins with a firework display followed by a party attended by high officials, aristocrats and celebrities at the palace of the Ruler at sundown. Before the firework display begins the Elder High priest or High priest will begin with a prayer of praise to EUEI, accompanied by the sacrifice of an ox, lamb, and goat. A benefit concert; open to the public, is held for charity in front of the ruler's Palace; preformed by an A-list talent. Banks and Government buildings are open on these days. Greenest Day: This Celebration is held in (City and Province TBD) on the 1st day in the 2nd month of the year. For a time from 1337-1350 AF all drugs were banned in (Province). Like any prohibition this led to organized crime and violence. But on the 1st day of the 2nd month in 1350 AF King Ula abolished the law in grand fashion. He himself before the people apologized for what he called a foolish law, and lite a joint which he shared with his wife and newly released prisoners that were arrested for drug use and possession. The next year the people of (Province) threw a celebration commemorating the abolishment of the law and the king's willingness to correct his own law out of his love for his people; by sharing joints with friends and neighbors. It has since turned into a yearly 6-day cultural feast in which thousands of musicians, cooks and craftspeople welcome hundreds of thousands of tourist and visitors from around the world, with music concerts from big name international as well as local performers, rides, games and vendors. The celebration begins with the King or Queen lighting a joint which is passed to the crowd, and the festival ends with an award winning artist's music performance. On these days government buildings and banks are open. The Festival of Rejoice: Starting on the 1st night of the 3rd week of the 5th month during the first dry season, and ending on the 6th night of the same week. (City and province TBD) becomes the culture hub of Nalibia, and is the biggest tourist attraction of the whole year. The festival is an annual celebration thrown to celebrate Nalibian sovereignty, patriotism, its multi-ethnic heritage and letting the good times roll. Parades are marched in front of the Royal palace as teams of scantily clad dancers use traditional and interpretive dance to commemorate Nalibian history, mythology and culture on grand rolling stages. The spectacle is accompanied with music, public intoxication and parties that last all night. The origins of the Festival is itself a mystery with tales of it being a festival to celebrate the sugarcane burning before harvest, slave rebellions and even others saying it was in celebration of the end of fasting for the "Visiting Night" holy day. Regardless of the reason the Festival has become a holiday unto itself with no one calling for its end in the foreseeable future. Within the city and surrounding towns, all non-essential government buildings are closed, but banks are open for limited hours for this week long celebration.

3-Letter Code: NLA 2-Letter Code: NL Capital City: The Holy Imperial City of Chikere Government Type: Theocratic Constitutional Monarchy Leader: Emperor Adebimpe Similola of House Melzedek Population: 13,880,456 Population density: Average GDP per capita: δ36,842 National Dish- Mouzumbo The Holy Empire of Nalibia is a multi-ethnic nation unified under a single faith. Over the past thousands of years the people of Nalibia have fought and reunified several times. The first unification referred to as the first founding happened around 2130BF under Akachi the unfaithful; whom also founded the present day state religion. Akachi is still revered by all peoples of Nalibia to this day. More recently the nation was officially reunified in 1015AF under it's present day constitution. Major Good Religion- The Priesthood of Nalibia is the Theocratic Government Branch of the nation. It is first and foremost dedicated to preserving the Religious integrity of the nation; while preserving both the traditions and culture of the people. It does this through its three religious orders being; The Order of Wisdom- Which is responsible for the Nation's education system. The Order of Understanding- Which is responsible for Disease Control and Prevention, and Medicine through scientific research in natural sciences. It is also in control of regulating the Agriculture sector. And lastly The Order of Knowledge- Which regulate communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable in all the nation's territories. This in turn means the people of Nalibia are slow to embrace social change of any kind; preserving a sense of ethnic an national pride; causing them to be well educated in many fields of Humanities and Social Sciences. It is said, "If it is done today in Nalibia, it has been done that way the last 1,000 years," Military- Nalibia has made a commitment to security, and maintains a moderately sized modern armed forces within it's means. The Nalibian military is made up of six major branches which include; the Army, Navy, Air Legion, Yasher, Royal Guard and Peace Corp. Upon reaching the age of 20; male citizens are conscripted into one of these six branches of their choice. Females may also join the military though they do not serve on the frontline. Males whom do not wish to serve in the military full time will complete 14 weeks of basic training before being sent into their respective branch for further training in a specialty military occupation. After all training is complete these males are treated as reserve forces and allowed to return to civilian life to resume their normal lives. They will report to their respective post monthly; becoming intimately familiar with their terrain, honing their skills and learning guerrilla tactics in case of invasion. Exemptions are given to the handicapped and mentally impaired, however if they wish to serve in the reserve; even they can be accepted to work as clerks, cooks, janitor staff, etc. As males in the reserve become older they are required to appear to their monthly post less. 20-24: Every month for three to six days 25-29: Every two month for three to six days 30-34: Every three month for three to six days 35-39: Every three month for three days 40-45: Every four month for three days 46: Honorably Discharged and No longer required to present to post. If a non-exempt male refuses to serve before the age of 35, he will be disqualified to vote, unable to own land, and disallowed to hold any government office for two generations (this includes princes holding their title and being allowed to present themselves to the Elder High Priest for "Selection Of Ascension"). Nalibia controls it's own military industrial complex though it does partner and buy equipment from other governments. Despite it's impressive military, historically Nalibia is peaceful (at least to outside nations) and more prone to isolation from "bad actors" than invading its lands. Most conflicts Nalibia have engaged in are civil, or due to defending its allies, or as part of coalitions against "bad actors". Nalibia believes maintaining a strong military allows them to control their own destiny; thus they stockpile and train as if war may happen tomorrow. However, it is more likely for other nation to see Keepers of the Peace Corp. rendering aid after natural disaster as opposed to Cherubim of the Yasher and bombs from the Air Legion. Minor good Monarchy- The Monarchy of Nalibia is the Royal Government Branch of the nation; with an Emperor/King of Kings ruling over the nation. Each province is divided into smaller territories ruled by elected Lords and Ladies of the people. These lords and ladies answer to a Hereditary Monarch whom rules over the whole province as king or queen. In turn these kings and queens answer to the Emperor himself; which is also Hereditary, whom as stated before acts as head of State. This means democracy only exist at the local level with the lords and ladies being the equivalent of mayors. Due to elections being only local; the people are less caught up in the cults of personality regarding elected officals nor do they have loyalty to political parties. The people pay very close attention to and almost worship the Monarchy whom are very well loved by the people due to cultural and national pride. However, this love is fickle; as when their lives are disrupted for too long they know exactly where the royal families live; which historically speaking the mob has claimed the death of a few monarchs of times past. Civil Rights- The Constitution and Eternal Rights are documents which outline the rights of the people of Nalibia. The Supreme Court; which is the Judicial Government Branch of the nation, role is to protect and maintain these rights. As Nalibia is also theocratic in part, so you can imagine some "freedoms/rights" are non-existent, but not to the level you would think. Women are free to own their own businesses. Children are free to pursue careers of their choosing. Political free speech and protest are protected, and everyone has the right to a fair day in court. Civil Rights are important for a healthy and happy nation, and this is not lost on the people of Nalibia, but simple because one can and wants, does it make it a "right" to do so? Major Bad Space Exploration- Space is a major area where Nalibia lacks. Even in this age of technology Nalibia does not wish to explore space any further than low-earth orbit. No Nalibians have been to space nor the moon. Through an under-funded national space program the NSA (Nalibian Space Agency) has managed to launch a few communication satellites into orbit for public and military use. This means those seeking to explore space further have had to migrate to nations with more advanced space programs. In turn the people of Nalibia worry if they are losing their best and brightest to other nations. Social Equity- While it is acknowledged that old remnants and even present day bigotry, economic class, crime and misfortune can stunt ones ability to have access to the proper tools to succeed; When it comes to the economy and society, Nalibia believe in meritocracy. This mean there are no affirmative action quotas to help those seeking to escape the ills of there environment. What the government has done is try to better the schools of low income communities, and build state funded trade schools. As well as crack down on crime and corruption which steal state funds from communities that need it. Nalibia may appear cold in this regard, but they wish for the world to know, they are not heartless. Minor bad Eco-Friendliness- While the nation has invested into renewable energy, and sees itself as stewards of it's land; it also has made it clear that it has no intention of ever fully going green. With it's outright ban of personal electric vehicles, refusal to sign any climate treaties, and blatant denial of man-made climate change, Nalibia has made it clear that the environment is not it's main priority. All this said however, Nalibia does have very green cities with flora built into it's architecture, national parks, state run wildlife reserves and conservation efforts. The newly established Nalibian Green Party has managed to take a few seats in parliament, showing that the people of Nalibia maybe becoming more green conscience beyond aesthetics. Time will tell if Nalibia's anti-green intentions are purely in protecting it's own national sovereignty, or if it truly does not care about the environment. As many still believe, "this whole climate change scare may just be a fad anyway," Taxes- Nalibia has a flat tax rate that is completely voluntary, and in the event a citizen choses to pay taxes; the citizen choses where 75% of their taxes go. This leaves many sectors of government underfunded. To work around this, each year the sectors of the government that are underfunded are allowed to sell bonds to the public. These bonds are credited toward the citizens' taxes the next year allowing them to owe less or even nothing. This creates a tail chasing affect as some sectors never receives the funding it needs, and previously well funded sectors find themselves selling bonds the following year. Not paying your taxes does come with some draw backs however; as a person whom does not pay taxes can not benefit in some government services such as but not limited to; taking part in any elections, using the courts to bring forth a legal lawsuit nor be part of any class action lawsuits, etc.. But a citizen will also not be summoned or forced to serve on any jury that year. While this is a problem some experts have argued that having to sell bonds keeps the public informed of the functions each sector provides. Arguably for the better, it has also allowed the private sector to create businesses to compensate underfunded areas; though these private sectors in government function are highly regulated and treated with great skepticism. Further Summary. Mouzumbo– Mouzumbo is a stew serve over hot cooked rice that is popular throughout the empire, and is the official national cuisine. Great Mouzumbo starts with roux, a flavorful thickening agent made from equal parts fat and flour. Once the roux is a deep golden color add beef, lamb or goat (sometimes all three), and the "holy trinity" – celery, bell peppers, and onions are added. Lastly a thickener is added; Mouzumbo is often categorized by the type of thickener used, whether okra or filé powder. Government Spending– Nalibia provides multiple programs such as universal healthcare, welfare, and free college tuition for its citizens. Due to state control of it's natural resources Nalibia has more money to spend on it citizens than some other nations may have. In addition to the previously mentioned programs, the government also provides housing for newlyweds, public school funding, social security, unemployment, workers compensation and public libraries to name a few. Energy Sector– Nalibia's power is generated primarily by fossil fuels, mostly being natural gas. However, in the past few years Nalibia has begun to explore green options such as solar, wind and hydro electric options. Nalibia's electric grid is maintained by it's state run Energy Council headed by the royal family of each province. Natural Resources– All non-renewable natural resources in Nalibia are state controlled. Renewable resources such as lumber and fishing are strictly regulated, but allowed to be owned and controlled by the private sector and market. The popular view is that the resources of the land belong to the people, not just one family, nor select investors. To this end all people of the nation benefit from the mining and gathering of the wealth of the land. Economy Sector– Nalibia has a capitalist economy for the most part, but some sectors fall under state control. Water, electricity, gas and communications fall under State control. Essential foods such as rice, wheat and potatoes are subsidized by the government, and their price to sell is regulated. That said however, the private sector still owns and maintains most of the empire's economic industries such as Manufacturing, Production, Technology, Stocks and Trade, Retail, most of the Agriculture, and Entertainment to name a few. Taxation– Nalibia has a voluntary flat income tax rate for all citizens. A person who does not pay taxes is not allowed to take part in elections; to vote nor can they run for political office, they are not eligible for government programs, nor can they file claims in courts. It should be stated that citizens whom do not pay taxes are allowed to defend themselves in court and are allowed to report crimes, they are just not allowed to file civil claims or bring petitions before the government. For non-citizen residents however it is non-voluntary, with them paying a slightly higher flat rate. Provincial Parliament– Each province has its own Parliament sometimes referred to as the Legislative Minor Government Branch; with the power to pass laws to govern its province as long as the laws are not unconstitutional, nor in opposition to the Laws of the faith. Once a law is created by parliament with a simple majority vote it is than approved or rejected by the Provincial Ruler; needing a 2/3rd majority to be enacted if the ruler rejects the law’s creation. Once a law is created by Parliament it stays in affect for only 50 years; After which it needs to be brought to the floor to be voted on and re-enacted into law again. The Parliament also decides where to allocate taxes of the province, with a small percentage allocated to the Imperial Government. The Provincial Parliament may also hold hearings and inquiries into matters regarding the province of the Parliament, but do not have the power to summon its ruler. The people also elect local judges, prosecutors, sheriffs, treasures and other such offices which there territory may need. Representatives are elected as advisors to the king/queen and Emperor allowing the needs and wants of the people to be heard via their respective. Lastly the Parliament falls under the power of the Theocratic, Judicial and Royal branches in function, and checks non of the powers of the three main branches of government in turn. The Priesthood– Nalibia's Priesthood is part of its government. Its role is to check the power of the Royal Rulers and Supreme Court to assure the Laws of the Faith are preserved. It has no power to make new laws, but does have the authority to enforce the Laws of the Faith, and may pass edicts (laws of past rulers). The Main role of the Priesthood is to carry out and teach the tenets of the faith throughout the nation. The Elder High Priest is the head of the Priesthood overseeing all orders of the faith. He has the responsibility of choosing the successor to the various Royal Rulers of Nalibia, and can repeal or nullify any law passed by the Parliament or Royal Rulers that go against the Laws of the Faith. The Supreme Court– The Supreme Court of Nalibia is one of the three Balances of power; the other two being the Priesthood and the Royal families. Its role is to check the power of the Royal rulers and Priesthood to assure the constitution is upheld. Made up of lawyers and judges the Supreme Court oversees the Judicial branch of the government. It has no power to pass law, but can repeal or nullify any law passed by the Parliament or Royal Rulers deemed to be unconstitutional. There are seven Supreme Judges holding the highest office of the Nalibian Supreme Court called Mishpats. Two are appointed by the Emperor, two are appointed by vote of the other Royals, two more are appointed by the Elder High Priest, and lastly one is appointed by popular vote of the people being the only office of the Three Branches which is elected into power. All Mishpats serve until retirement at the age of 70 unless they resign or are removed from office. Royal Rulers– The Royal Rulers, rule over the provinces of Nalibia within the limitations of the Supreme Court and Priesthood. Nefalme/Nenala, meaning king/queen is the proper title of the Provincial Rulers of Nalibia. Passing laws, pronouncing judgments, administering resources, and meeting with foreign diplomates and dignitaries are but a few duties of a Royal Ruler. Each sits as a head of state over his or her own province; with the emperor ruling over the entire nation welding Imperial authority over the other provinces, as well as his own province. The Royal Rulers also decides where to allocate profits from the state-run industries of their province, with a small percentage allocated to the Imperial Government. When a Royal Ruler dies, all laws made or enacted by that ruler are enforced for no more than 50 years of the time in which they were first enacted. The succeeding ruler, the Parliament and the Priesthood may enact these newly repealed laws as edicts if they so wish to. The Emperor- Negumalchei which means King of Kings in the Nalibian language, is the proper title of the Emperor of Nalibia. Still classified as part of the Royal Branch of Government; the Negumalchei acts as Head of State of the empire, Imperial Leader of the Armies during war, and holds exclusive powers not limited to; calling for a vote for war, make treaties with the approval of the other Royal Rulers, implementing Imperial law over the whole of the nation, represent the nation in talks with foreign Heads of State, granting pardons of imperial criminals, and appointing ambassadors. The laws which the Negumalchei pass can be repealed or nullified if deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, or if found to be in contradiction to the Holy Law of the faith. These law stay in effect for 60 years after being enacted, and can be passed as edicts by the succeeding Negumalchei, or by a 2/3 vote of the Royal Rulers. The Imperial House of Melzedek is the current ruling family of the nation, and has been the ruling family since the Constitutional Founding of 1015AF.

Industry: Resource Extraction (April 3rd) Country of Origin: Nalibia Marula Oil is a state owned multinational oil and gas corporation headquartered in Nalibia, We operate in all areas of the energy industry, including exploration, production, refining, transportation, and marketing of crude and natural gas. Marula Oil upstream operations involve activities such as drilling wells, developing reservoirs, and constructing infrastructure. Our downstream operations involve refining crude oil, distributing refined products, and marketing petroleum-based products. We have operations across the globe, with a strong presence in deep-water exploration, particularly in the international water of the Viatic Ocean, where we currently holds more than 200 leases. In Nalibia, our refining capacity accounts for 60% of total domestic capacity, providing Nalibia with affordable petroleum along with our gas stations which are some of the most widely recognized. Marula Oil is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies, with activities ranging from exploring for and producing oil and natural gas to manufacturing, marketing, and transporting fuels and other energy products. In addition to our core businesses, Marula Oil is also involved in research and development in renewable energy sources and advanced energy technologies. We have invested in a number of projects in alternative fuels, biofuels, biodiesel, hydrogen fuel cells, and geothermal energy. We have been praised for our focus on providing clean, reliable energy solutions and for our commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Our company is a long-time supporter of the Nur's Cancer Society, having donated over $100 million since 1396. We also works to protect water resources, reduce air emissions, and promote environmental education. Marula Oil is committed to the safe operation of all our facilities, and strive to improve the quality of life for our employees and all those living in the communities we serve.

Introduction Thank you for purchasing my book! My name is Jasmine Rice, and I have been a chef for over 30 years, specialising in Sekiyan cuisine. However, I didn't always want to be a chef, and I hope my story and recipes can help you form a positive relationship between you and the kitchen! From a young age, I always wanted to become a lawyer, and I even got into Ma Law School in Anzhou! Whilst studying abroad in Giovanniland at the University of Porto Violeto, I found my passion for cooking. I had always taken food for granted, and now that I was in another country, I knew I had to find a way to start making some of my favourite recipes from home. I returned home to Sekiya, and passed law school a year later, with cooking still my favourite hobby. I settled into a job in Anzhou, where I stayed for several years, and I gradually became tired of my job as a lawyer. I visited a shrine to ask for direction in my life, and I got it from the smell of a nearby restaurant. Almost within the space of a week, I had transitioned from a promising lawyer into an average chef on the outskirts of Anzhou. I slowly worked my way up across multiple kitchens, and after 7 years of enjoyment and development, I found myself as the Head Chef of Jiuguan's new restaurant in Changjing. After almost over a decade of experience, I started my own global restaurant chain 'Jasmine', with locations on every continent! After decades of work, I am now excited to be able to publish my first ever recipe book! Index Page 1 - Introduction and Index Page 2 - Sekiyan Food Groups Page 1 [OOC Note: This post will be updated gradually with recipes that fit in with my idea of Sekiyan cuisine! I'm happy to take suggestions!]

Culinary Groups Sekiya has 6 main culinary groups, each with similarities and differences that you will discover as you follow along with these recipes. Each recipe will be from one of the food groups mentioned below. Eastern Sekiya (Dongchi) - Dongchi is a rare cuisine and found rarely within and outside of Sekiya. Dongchi roughly translates to "Eastern food" and is the most different from the other food groups. Primarily influenced by the lifestyle of the Donggu people for much of Sekiyan history, Dongchi food is mostly based around roaming animals, such as cattle and similar mammals. North-Western Sekiya (Kaluo) - Kaluo food is the rarest food group on this list due to the low population density. The area was for much of history closer to Sekiya's northern neighbour, Peourouin. Due to this, Kaluo food is a rough mix of Heping and Peourouin cuisine. Western Sekiya (Fugu) - Fugo is an extremely interesting food group, due to its influence from Giovanniland, which had control over this region between the 920s to the early 1200s. The name Fugo, comes from the local name of the Northern Sekiyan Coast, meaning "Prosperous Valley". Fugo food is similar to Banyue food, with a strong influence from Giovannilandian cuisine. Central Sekiya (Heping) - Heping food is extremely popular in Sekiya, however, is not well known globally. It is named after Heping City, the largest city in Sekiya, and a rough centre of Heping food. Heping food is primarily based around rice, chicken and pork, due to the abundance of farmland in Central Sekiya. South-Western Sekiya (Banyue) - If you have ever been to a Sekiyan restaurant in your country, then you most likely have eaten lots of food from Banyue! The name is taken from the ancient Sekiyan kingdom of Banyue that used to occupy much of South-Western Sekiya. Banyue is by far the most popular Sekiyan food group abroad, primarily due to the large city of Xinghai! Xinghai is by far Sekiya's most multicultural city, and the large amount of tourism and trade going through the city has helped local cuisine travel the world! Banyue food is primarily based around seafood, due to the abundance of coastline. Southern Sekiya (Danan) - The word "Danan" translate literally to Great South, the name of an ancient empire during which Danan food really took off. Due to its lush and dense forests, Danan food is primarily based around hunted animals, such as Deer and Wild Game, however these meats have been substituted with farm animals as part of conservation efforts. Page 2

Welcome to Apexiala The Principality of Apexiala The Principality of Apexiala is a fast growing, highly developed, coastal, democratic nation that prioritises equality, fairness, integrity and the safety of its citizens. Apexiala has scored a perfect 100.0 on the International LGBT+ Rights Index, recognising it as a very highly developed and free nation, with the highest tier of freedoms, rights, and societal acceptance for LGBT+ people 🏳️‍🌈. Links 📄 History 📄 Royal Family 📄 Government 📄 Constitution 📄 Legislation 📄 Economy 📄 People/Population & Demographics 📄 Culture 📄 Language 📄 Welfare 📄 International Trade 📄 Cities 📄 Geography 📄 Climate 📄 Wildlife 📄 Military 📄 Notable Companies 📄 Notable People The 💕Principality💕 of Apexiala Full map of Apexiala (v0.6, 08 Jan. 2023) Motto: Equality & Progress Language: Apexialan & Common Government Type: Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy Head of State: ♔ HRH Princess Katie Amari Head of Government: Prime Minister Tyrus Omara Population: 18,405,858 Population Density: 54.1 per km2 Capital: Oasis Largest City: Oasis Land Area: 340,264 km2 Elevation: Highest Point: ⛰️ 777m Lowest Point: 🌊 0m (Sea Level) GDP (PPP): $708,405,054,987 (2nd in Nur, 14th in Esferos) GDP per Capita: $38,488 (1st in Nur, 21st in Esferos) Currency: Apexia (Ӕ) International Indexes: Intl Development Index: 88.2 See report Intl LGBT+ Rights Index: 100.0 See report Intl Freedom Index: 96.3 See report Intl Democracy Index: Results Pending See report Intl Safety Index: 93.1 See report Intl Animal Rights Index: 76.0 See report Timezone: 🕓 IAT+4 Internet TLD: 💻 .apx Religion: No official religion National Animal: 🐃 Buffalo & 🦬 Bison National Tree: 🌴 Palm Tree National Flower: tbc... History Work in progress... Check back in soon maybe?? text text text... text text text... Royal Family Apexiala has a Royal Family, however its powers are now largely symbolic only. The current head of the Apexialan Royal Family is ♔ HRH Princess Katie Amari (aged 30), who has held the position since coronation ten years ago in 1413, at the age of 20. Next in line to the throne is ♛ Crown Princess Imara Kamini (aged 23) Government Apexiala is a Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy, with Prime Minister Tyrus Omara as Head of Government. A democratically elected government is responsible for most aspects of the Legislature and routine running of the nation. All levels of government are expected to embody the principles of Equality & Progress. The political establishment follows a trias politica model (Separation of powers), with the 3 separate branches of government: Executive: Prime Minister & Government Legislative: Bicameral Legislature Upper House: Senate Lower House: Congress Judicial: Supreme Court Government & Non-Governmental Departments Bank of Apex Apexiala Diplomatic Relations Apexiala Department of Defense Apexiala Gallery of Art Apexiala Cultural Heritage Apexiala Wildlife Reserve Apexiala Nature Reserve Constitution Apexiala does have a Constituion... But it's a work in progress... Check back in soon maybe?? text text text... text text text... Legislation I'm hopefully going to get around to publishing a lot more details about Legislation But this is still a major work in progress... Check back in another time maybe?? text text text... text text text... Economy GDP (PPP): $708,405,054,987 (2nd in Nur, 14th in Esferos) GDP per Capita: $38,488 (1st in Nur, 21st in Esferos) Apexiala has a highly developed market economy, regarded as free, modern & efficient. Much of Apexialas success can be directly traced back to its origins as an entrepôt (transshipment port), and its flourishing mercantile shipping industry. Apexiala has nationalished the ownership of many core state-run services, particularly in underlying industries such as infrastructure, utilities, telecomms & energy. Notwithstanding state run infrastructure, the nation remains overwhelmingly dedicated to free open market competition, and as such it remains very business friendly and attracts substantial foreign investments. Much of the Apexialas early trading was in the export of tropical produce & livestock, however this has diversified substantially over the last several decades. Various other sectors also contribute to imports & exports, including manufacturing, automobiles, petrochemicals, electrical equipment, technology, medical equipment & medicines, and many more. The nation also has a well established Financial sector, which helps it to remain well placed on the international economic stage. The city of Alowa is home to the Apexiala Trading Exchange (ATX) and is the headquarters for many Apexialan companies, as well as hosting regional offices for many international businesses. People/Population & Demographics Diverse & Multicultural... Ethnic Groups Apexialan 76% Apexialan (Mixed Heritage) 19% Apexialan (Indigenous) 1% Other/Foreign 4% Need to expand on this... it's a work in progress... Check back in soon maybe?? text text text... text text text... Culture Food Apexialan food has evolved from a fusion of many varieties of international styles, and plays an important part of Apexialan culture. As a result of the abundance of livestock & spices much of Apexialan cuisine is centred around meaty and spicy dishes. Notable Apexialan dishes include Massawa Stew (Bison or Buffalo), Tamari Curry, Lemon & Sesame Chicken & Rice, as well as many popular street food vendors. Music Music is also a notable aspect of Apexialan life. Most popular genres of music are: Alternative, Rock, Emo/Screamo, Metalcore, as well as various other subgenres of Metal. Various electronic genres such as Dance, Electro & Trance also remain popular as well. Sport There is no official national sport of Apexiala, however there are a wide variety of Sports, Activities & Hobbies which are popular. Active lifestyle sports and hobbies such as athletics & gymnastics, rock climbing, archery. With it's many cities that line the coastline, water sports such as kite sailing & surfing are also popular. Equine sports include horse riding, horse racing, dressage & show jumping. Apexiala is also home to an F1 Grand Prix race in the city of Oasis each year. More modern hobbies are becoming more prominent such as Esports & Gaming, as well as more niche hobbies like fantasy roleplaying tabletop games. Language text text text... Welfare Apexiala has a substantial welfare support system.... which aims to ensure the highest possible standards of living for all Apexialans. Housing assistance, unemployment assistance, disability assistance, national pensions, Universal Basic Income This expansive social support system aims to ensure that there is virtually no absolute poverty and continually strives to reduce relative poverty as well. International Trade text text text... Cities Rank City Population District 1 Oasis 4,350,939 tbc 2 Massawa 3,382,338 tbc 3 Alowa 2,800,000 tbc 4 Marini 268,377 tbc 5 Madiha 231,061 tbc 6 Tamari 200,000 tbc 7 Milena 164,829 tbc 8 Biwasi 150,000 tbc 9 Nalah 120,000 tbc 10 Kawehi 100,000 tbc 11 Okawa 80,000 tbc 12 Nyasa 45,000 tbc Full map of Esferos (v1.6, 18 Feb. 2023) Geography Apexiala is located at the very north west peninsula of the continent of Nur, within the world of Esferos. Most of the country sits just below the Tropic of Eli, placing it approximately between 17°N to 25°N north of the Equator. Apexialas territory also includes Samira Island to the west. Climate Apexiala has a humid sub-tropical climate. Temperatures are typically fairly warm all year round, with notably hot summers. The southern & western areas of Apexiala experience regular rainfall, with a monsoon season that peaks in late summer. Whereas the central & north-eastern areas of Apexiala experience very little rain for most of the year, with only very brief rainfall in summer. Temperatures almost never drop below freezing point, and there have been no modern records of snowfall. Wildlife text text text... Military text text text... Notable Companies Mikaru: Luxury Automobiles Risaki: Retro Futursim Sports Cars Keyaru: Modern Family Cars, Moderately Premium level, often electric Tibaru: Budget entry level cars Kimora Industries: Metalworks / Steelworks Sirana: Petrochemicals Aridae: Pharmaceutical Syrah: Tech/Cyber?? Karini: Residential & Accomodation Rosetta Hotels: Hospitality & Accomodation Virala: Media, TV Notable People text text text... Industry Apexiala is led by International Trade, Manufacturing, Agriculture & Livestock, Financial Services and Tourism. Its many beaches, harbours and nightlife, as well as its vibrant culture and local wildlife make it a popular holiday destination within The West Pacific. The Kamari Wildlife Reserve is a popular destination for travellers looking to experience a Safari tour. Additional sectors also include Agriculture, Livestock & Wildlife Management and Fishing. Wildlife Reserves Apexiala is home to an abundance of native wildlife which benefit from pristine habitats and strong environmental protections. The Apexiala Wildlife Reserve is responsible for the management of the Safari habitats Some of the animals native to Apexiala include the following: Caribou Impala Oryx Rhino Wildebeest Armadillo Honey Badger Pangolin Possum, Tapir Buzzard Dodo Kestral Osprey Parrot Alpaca Llama Bear Camel Jackal Lynx Manatee Otter Piranha Seal Shark Stingray Terrapin Other Notable Locations - Kamari (Wildlife Reserve) - Ambessa (Small Town & Lodges) - Samira Island International Relations While Apexiala strongly supports democracy both at a national & international level, it prioritises being militarily neutral, thus maintaining only minimal Armed Forces for national defense. Future Articles...? 🪪 ID Cards.... 💴 Currency demoninations... 📚 Primary Education... 🎓 Higher Education... ⚡ Energy Infrastructure... 🛢️ 📰 Newspapers... 🏳️‍🌈 LGBT+ Pride... 🚅 Public Transport... 🚉🚇 🍹 Nightlife... 🍸 🏛️ Courts... ⚖️ 📈 Stock Exchange... 🔞 Age Restrictions... 📱 Tech... 👑 Royalty... 📜 Constitution... 🗳️ Elections... 🏠 Home Ownership... 🏙️🏢 🏥 Healthcare... 🦺 Construction... 🔬 Science & Research... 📆 National Holidays... 🎐🏮 💱 Special Economic Zones... 🌁🌃🌇🌆 Oasis 🏭🛳️🏗️ Massawa 🏟️ Eden 🛖 Massawa ⚓👨🏻‍✈️ Nyasa Oasis Harbour IRL Influences & Inspirations Language English, Japanese, Swahili, various European Geography Brazil, Madagasca, Singapore, Kenya, Tanzania Architecture Singapore, Rio de Janeiro, Monaco Political System UK, USA Cultural Values & Welfare Sweden, New Zealand, Singapore Economy Singapore, Hong Kong City Life Singapore, Hong Kong, Rio De Janerio, Monaco, Miami

Guide to TWP Roleplay and Esferos Lore Introduction Current map version 1.18, updated 1 April 2024 Esferos Topographic Map | Biome Map | Tectonic Map | Wind & Sea Map TABLE OF CONTENTS: Welcome to the map! Where can I RP? A brief "Session Zero" for TWP Roleplay Esferos lore introduction Welcome to Esferos! The center of roleplay in TWP is the map of our world, Esferos. Our canon is tied to the map and our stories are built by our community—whether you're into nation building, international affairs, or rootin' tootin' cowboys, you'll find something that grips you here. There's no telling how deep you'll go! Citizens of The West Pacific can request a place on the map to develop a history, culture, and people for their nation. While collaborating with others, you will create roleplay like factbooks, news, stories, or sports—essentially, whatever you want to do with your nation within reason. The current RP year is 1422 AF, this translates to modern-day Earth. Most technologies are also roughly equivalent to the modern day. Before we get too into things, if you have any questions, you may address them to one of the Lorekeepers on the TWP Roleplay Discord server. To join the world of Esferos you must be a citizen of TWP, read the rest of this Guide, introduce yourself on the RP Discord server, and submit your Mapplication™ in the Mapplication™ thread. We very strongly encourage you to join RP Discord server before you submit your Mapplication™. Ideally, we want everyone to have the opportunity to get to know the different regions of Esferos (geographically and culturally) and see who is active there so you can decide which area is the right fit for you, as opposed to throwing a dart at the map. Where can I roleplay? TWP's two roleplay locations are the regional forums and the TWP Roleplay discord. However, these two places have different uses. TWP Forums TWP's forums are the official home of TWP's roleplaying—there are four roleplay subforums available for use: Atlas of the Occident - Map and Factbook - Home of the regional map and forum-based factbooks of the nations that reside in it. The Repository - Local & World News - The place to post newswires about the goings on in and around your nation. Roleplay - How the West Was Won - The general RP subforum. If you have an IC roleplay thread to post, it belongs here. OOC Support - Information & Dispute Arbitration - The place where OOC threads belong and where disputes can be resolved. And of course the RP Archive, which is, as you guessed, where really old clutter goes. RP Discord The TWP Roleplay Discord server is the home of OOC discussion and worldbuilding. Its activities include nation building, arts and crafts, regional planning, and all sorts of other things, but it is not the place for in-character (IC) talk. It is also not a gameplay or foreign affairs Discord, nor a substitute for the general chat and spam functions of main TWP server. You can find an overview of the server's rules, roles, and channels and links to helpful resources in the #welcome-info channel. Roleplay Resources Official Resources Big Book of Numbers - This contains the core statistics and basic information for all nations on the map, including capitals, land area, population, languages, and much more. The information you provide in your Mapplication™ will go in the Book, and you can comment on cells to add further information. Session Zero Guidance - This guidance forms the basis of our shared world. No one is allowed to go against the guidelines set in the Guidance. Unofficial Resources Language Table - This spreadsheet contains the names of all Esferosi nations in the different languages of Esferos. Maintained by Giovanniland, based on the spreadsheet begun by Kurabis Legal System Questionnaire / Comparison - Prompts to explore the way your nation's society is constructed through its legal system Nation Building Exercise - A useful exercise for exploring balance in nationbuilding. A brief "Session Zero" for TWP Roleplay The term "Session Zero" comes from tabletop roleplaying games, in which before a campaign starts, the game master sits down with the players to introduce the setting, set boundaries, and clarify expectations for the coming games. For our uses, it refers to the most basic rules and customs you need to know before starting to build your nation on Esferos. When in doubt or in need of help/guidance, ask the Lorekeepers. They are all experienced in subjects related to wordbuilding such as history, military studies, archaeology, anthropology, and political and international studies. They also guide the balance, quality, and realism of our shared world, and may take action to enforce it. Balance An overriding goal of TWP Roleplay is balance—this means everything good comes with drawbacks. No nation can be good at everything, just as no nation can be bad at everything. You cannot “win” the RP spreadsheet Your goal should not be to have the highest number on a sheet. Having a high population, a high GDP per capita, or high military spending each have their own drawbacks. It is a balance. Realism Technological realism: Existing technologies with widespread implementation, such as cell phones or helicopters, are fair play. Advanced technologies with limited or experimental implementation, such as fully autonomous vehicle fleets or advanced laser weapons systems, are guided by balance: if a real-life analogue nation has access to a technology, then you may attempt to justify that access by defining the balance. Historical realism: Real-life religions and languages do not exist on Esferos. Similarly, you cannot use RL religious symbols in your IC religion. You may reference them as inspiration or ‘flavour’ out-of-character. Using similar inspirations to other nations does not mean your nation must be related to them. Your nation didn't always exist in its current form. People probably lived there for thousands of years, but much of it was in a very different form to modern life. It's unlikely that the exact same political entity that exists today existed hundreds of years ago. Ancient developments should follow a timescale with reference or similarity to the real world. If you are interested in exploring the ancient history of your region of Esferos, you should look into real-world societal developments for similar regions and timespans on Earth. Modern developments should also reference the real world. For example, the ‘Industrial Revolution' was a process which unfolded at different scales and speeds around the world from 1760 to today. International relations don't have to be cordial, and your nation can have been friendly and have histories with countries it isn't friendly with today. Miscellaneous realism: Just as RL religions and languages don’t exist here, RL places don’t exist either. Do not name your nation, cities, and other things after prominent RL places like “Shanghai”. Exceptions are common given names like “Georgetown”. If you need help coming up with names, ask in the Discord or check out a random name generator. There is no magic. That doesn’t mean people can’t believe something is miraculous or magical, but you cannot state as an OOC fact that it is. You should make distinctions between historical, semi-legendary, and legendary events and figures. Just because something is not an OOC fact does not mean that it cannot be believed to be fact IC. The laws of physics are the same as we understand them in the real world. They cannot be manipulated or exploited in any extraordinary way. Humans are the only available species to roleplay as. The current year is not the beginning of your nation’s story We recommend avoiding the propensity to make big events happen in the current year; you should roleplay past events or allow them to be a historical fact. Just because you weren’t playing your nation before does not mean it didn’t exist or have relationships. Talk to your neighbours and define your historical relationships with them, it’s all part of the fun! War is difficult, messy, and detailed There is no total victory. You should find some drawback or disadvantage to your activity—there’s no fun in always winning all the time. Just because you have a large army and say military spending is 50% of your GDP doesn’t mean you win. Be tactful and realistic; look to real life examples and ask the Lorekeepers for help if you need it. Yes, North Korea is a “real life example” but their level of expenditure is an extreme outlier and comes at great cost. Border changes will not happen without Loremaster approval. This would be dependent on quality and content of roleplay. Remember that matters of war and military are subject to oversight by the Lorekeepers for balance and realism purposes. You are not a “recently discovered tribe”, and avoiding other common tropes There are no “undiscovered” nations on Esferos, just as there are none on Earth. If your nation is “opening up diplomatic and foreign relationships after a long period of isolationism” you are not going to be up to the modern standard of life or technology. Continents are not “Teams” The Continental Congresses don't have meaning beyond out-of-character (OOC) planning. There is no IC organization called a "Continental Congress". In the Continental Congress channels, we come together to plan histories, geography, and other things that affect our neighbors, but the goal isn't one continent-spanning intergovernmental organization. Avoid treating continents as teams. A few community rules Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Worldbuilding and RP can be daunting, but you’re not alone—we’re a community. Roleplay is multilateral, which means every party has to agree—you only participate in ways you agree to. If any issues arise, please let one of the moderators know. Along with this is zero tolerance for hate imagery or masked clones or iterations of nations like Nazi Germany. This section is adapted from the TWP RP20 Guidance and Rebalancing, which includes a slightly more in-depth version of the Session Zero. Esferos lore introduction Geography Our planet is called Esferos, a medium-sized terrestrial world orbiting a gas giant around a binary star, and is the only astronomical object known to support life. Its surface covered mostly by oceans, with a handful of major continents and numerous smaller island chains. The five continents of Esferos are Andolia, Aura, Doll Guldur, Nur, and Polaris. Andolia is located in the southern hemisphere — a land of broad grasslands and forests in the east, mountainous shores in the west, and deserts and rainforests in between. Andolia also has the most active volcanos of any continent. Aura is regarded by some as the historical center of Esferos — much of the southern part of the continent is tropical, covered in lush rainforests and fertile plains, while the north is much more arid and contains the world's largest desert. Doll Guldur is a rugged land in the northeast of the region — its terrain is made up of great plains and wide forests, with shattered mountain chains along the eastern coasts. Doll Guldur also contains the world's largest endorheic basin. Nur is located far to the east the other continents — its surface is covered by plains and rainforests in the north to mountains, temperate forests, and steppe in the south. Nur is the largest and least densely populated continent of Esferos. Polaris is located in the far north — it is a land of great forests and greater mountains in the west, grasslands and hills in the east, and desert in the center and south. It is also home to the largest freshwater lake in the world. Miscellanea Most of Esferos uses the Markan calendar system, which counts time from the founding of the Holy Principality of Saint Mark. One properly counts time using the BF and AF suffixes, short for "Before Founding" and "After Founding". The current year is 1424 AF. You can easily translate between the Markan and Gregorian calendar by taking the year in the Gregorian calendar and subtracting 600. For instance, 1900 CE in our time is the same as 1300 AF in roleplay time (1900-600=1300). The international language of Esferos is called 'Common'—it originated as a trade pidgin among sailors in the Darkesian Sea and spread from there. Out of character, most players use English to approximate it, but it is not related to English in-character. Esferos is a multipolar world—no single power international power has the strength to dominate the others.