Overthinkers

Team Introduction
Change is in the air for Team Overthinkers this World Cup. Due to his personal health, beloved coac    h Anton “Ed” Edwards will not be at the helm as the Kites seek a second finals appearance. Instead, Vilan “The Professor” Taurus has stepped up.
But the changes will ultimately not end there. Fresh off her fourth TRY RL title, team captain Theresa Argent has announced her retirement at the end of the year. Last year, the Kites were only aiming for the podium. This year, it’s gold or bust.
The remainder of the domestic rugby triumvirate–Lee Julius, the unstoppable force, and David Nauta, the immovable object–remain mainstays of the roster. Nauta, nearly as old as Argent, has not lost any power over the years. Julius, on the other hand, is coming off their statistically worst season yet. Not to worry, though–Julius at 75% can still outmaneuver the entire Ryxtylopian side.
Many eyes now turn to Siena Aliester, the fiery half-back who turned heads with her breakout performance domestically this year. Pundits are less concerned about her athletic skills transferring to the international stage than they are her PR “skills”.
 
Roster
#
Player
Hometown
#
Player
Hometown
1
Andrew Hall
Cangham
13
Quinn Calum
Exvia
2
David Nauta
Brunnes
14
Leona Knight
Hestmere
3
Hank Moor
Cangham
15
Tara Aciell
Cangham
4
Jena Cantor
Brunnes
16
Drake Alles
Occida
5
Vic Cannon
Exvia
17
Bonnie Marculus
Worth
6
Carson West
Gladius
18
Vic Cannon
Exvia
7
Alan Cord
Wells
19
A.J. Jackson
Zoewey
8
Theresa Argent       C
Hestmere
20
Bryan Harding
Aurum
9
Don Virga
Cangham
21
Gertrude Leagues
Shaun
10
Siena Aleister
Tever
22
Greg Warner
Bellman
11
Lee Julius
Exvia
23
Robert Caseus
Cangham
12
Micheal Anul
Ligon
       
Kit
The Kites will once again field an all-new kit for RWC6, returning to a simpler red and gold design.

Team Introduction
Change is in the air for Team Overthinkers this World Cup. Due to his personal health, beloved coac    h Anton “Ed” Edwards will not be at the helm as the Kites seek a second finals appearance. Instead, Vilan “The Professor” Taurus has stepped up.
But the changes will ultimately not end there. Fresh off her fourth TRY RL title, team captain Theresa Argent has announced her retirement at the end of the year. Last year, the Kites were only aiming for the podium. This year, it’s gold or bust.
The remainder of the domestic rugby triumvirate–Lee Julius, the unstoppable force, and David Nauta, the immovable object–remain mainstays of the roster. Nauta, nearly as old as Argent, has not lost any power over the years. Julius, on the other hand, is coming off their statistically worst season yet. Not to worry, though–Julius at 75% can still outmaneuver the entire Ryxtylopian side.
Many eyes now turn to Siena Aliester, the fiery half-back who turned heads with her breakout performance domestically this year. Pundits are less concerned about her athletic skills transferring to the international stage than they are her PR “skills”.
 
Roster
#
Player
Hometown
#
Player
Hometown
1
Andrew Hall
Cangham
13
Quinn Calum
Exvia
2
David Nauta
Brunnes
14
Leona Knight
Hestmere
3
Hank Moor
Cangham
15
Tara Aciell
Cangham
4
Jena Cantor
Brunnes
16
Drake Alles
Occida
5
Vic Cannon
Exvia
17
Bonnie Marculus
Worth
6
Carson West
Gladius
18
Vic Cannon
Exvia
7
Alan Cord
Wells
19
A.J. Jackson
Zoewey
8
Theresa Argent       C
Hestmere
20
Bryan Harding
Aurum
9
Don Virga
Cangham
21
Gertrude Leagues
Shaun
10
Siena Aleister
Tever
22
Greg Warner
Bellman
11
Lee Julius
Exvia
23
Robert Caseus
Cangham
12
Micheal Anul
Ligon
       
Kit
The Kites will once again field an all-new kit for RWC6, returning to a simpler red and gold design.

Team Introduction
Change is in the air for Team Overthinkers this World Cup. Due to his personal health, beloved coac    h Anton “Ed” Edwards will not be at the helm as the Kites seek a second finals appearance. Instead, Vilan “The Professor” Taurus has stepped up.
But the changes will ultimately not end there. Fresh off her fourth TRY RL title, team captain Theresa Argent has announced her retirement at the end of the year. Last year, the Kites were only aiming for the podium. This year, it’s gold or bust.
The remainder of the domestic rugby triumvirate–Lee Julius, the unstoppable force, and David Nauta, the immovable object–remain mainstays of the roster. Nauta, nearly as old as Argent, has not lost any power over the years. Julius, on the other hand, is coming off their statistically worst season yet. Not to worry, though–Julius at 75% can still outmaneuver the entire Ryxtylopian side.
Many eyes now turn to Siena Aliester, the fiery half-back who turned heads with her breakout performance domestically this year. Pundits are less concerned about her athletic skills transferring to the international stage than they are her PR “skills”.
 
Roster
#
Player
Hometown
#
Player
Hometown
1
Andrew Hall
Cangham
13
Quinn Calum
Exvia
2
David Nauta
Brunnes
14
Leona Knight
Hestmere
3
Hank Moor
Cangham
15
Tara Aciell
Cangham
4
Jena Cantor
Brunnes
16
Drake Alles
Occida
5
Vic Cannon
Exvia
17
Bonnie Marculus
Worth
6
Carson West
Gladius
18
Vic Cannon
Exvia
7
Alan Cord
Wells
19
A.J. Jackson
Zoewey
8
Theresa Argent       C
Hestmere
20
Bryan Harding
Aurum
9
Don Virga
Cangham
21
Gertrude Leagues
Shaun
10
Siena Aleister
Tever
22
Greg Warner
Bellman
11
Lee Julius
Exvia
23
Robert Caseus
Cangham
12
Micheal Anul
Ligon
       
Kit
The Kites will once again field an all-new kit for RWC6, returning to a simpler red and gold design.

Team Introduction
Change is in the air for Team Overthinkers this World Cup. Due to his personal health, beloved coac    h Anton “Ed” Edwards will not be at the helm as the Kites seek a second finals appearance. Instead, Vilan “The Professor” Taurus has stepped up.
But the changes will ultimately not end there. Fresh off her fourth TRY RL title, team captain Theresa Argent has announced her retirement at the end of the year. Last year, the Kites were only aiming for the podium. This year, it’s gold or bust.
The remainder of the domestic rugby triumvirate–Lee Julius, the unstoppable force, and David Nauta, the immovable object–remain mainstays of the roster. Nauta, nearly as old as Argent, has not lost any power over the years. Julius, on the other hand, is coming off their statistically worst season yet. Not to worry, though–Julius at 75% can still outmaneuver the entire Ryxtylopian side.
Many eyes now turn to Siena Aliester, the fiery half-back who turned heads with her breakout performance domestically this year. Pundits are less concerned about her athletic skills transferring to the international stage than they are her PR “skills”.
 
Roster
#
Player
Hometown
#
Player
Hometown
1
Andrew Hall
Cangham
13
Quinn Calum
Exvia
2
David Nauta
Brunnes
14
Leona Knight
Hestmere
3
Hank Moor
Cangham
15
Tara Aciell
Cangham
4
Jena Cantor
Brunnes
16
Drake Alles
Occida
5
Vic Cannon
Exvia
17
Bonnie Marculus
Worth
6
Carson West
Gladius
18
Vic Cannon
Exvia
7
Alan Cord
Wells
19
A.J. Jackson
Zoewey
8
Theresa Argent       C
Hestmere
20
Bryan Harding
Aurum
9
Don Virga
Cangham
21
Gertrude Leagues
Shaun
10
Siena Aleister
Tever
22
Greg Warner
Bellman
11
Lee Julius
Exvia
23
Robert Caseus
Cangham
12
Micheal Anul
Ligon
       
Kit
The Kites will once again field an all-new kit for RWC6, returning to a simpler red and gold design.

Team Introduction
Change is in the air for Team Overthinkers this World Cup. Due to his personal health, beloved coac    h Anton “Ed” Edwards will not be at the helm as the Kites seek a second finals appearance. Instead, Vilan “The Professor” Taurus has stepped up.
But the changes will ultimately not end there. Fresh off her fourth TRY RL title, team captain Theresa Argent has announced her retirement at the end of the year. Last year, the Kites were only aiming for the podium. This year, it’s gold or bust.
The remainder of the domestic rugby triumvirate–Lee Julius, the unstoppable force, and David Nauta, the immovable object–remain mainstays of the roster. Nauta, nearly as old as Argent, has not lost any power over the years. Julius, on the other hand, is coming off their statistically worst season yet. Not to worry, though–Julius at 75% can still outmaneuver the entire Ryxtylopian side.
Many eyes now turn to Siena Aliester, the fiery half-back who turned heads with her breakout performance domestically this year. Pundits are less concerned about her athletic skills transferring to the international stage than they are her PR “skills”.
 
Roster
#
Player
Hometown
#
Player
Hometown
1
Andrew Hall
Cangham
13
Quinn Calum
Exvia
2
David Nauta
Brunnes
14
Leona Knight
Hestmere
3
Hank Moor
Cangham
15
Tara Aciell
Cangham
4
Jena Cantor
Brunnes
16
Drake Alles
Occida
5
Vic Cannon
Exvia
17
Bonnie Marculus
Worth
6
Carson West
Gladius
18
Vic Cannon
Exvia
7
Alan Cord
Wells
19
A.J. Jackson
Zoewey
8
Theresa Argent       C
Hestmere
20
Bryan Harding
Aurum
9
Don Virga
Cangham
21
Gertrude Leagues
Shaun
10
Siena Aleister
Tever
22
Greg Warner
Bellman
11
Lee Julius
Exvia
23
Robert Caseus
Cangham
12
Micheal Anul
Ligon
       
Kit
The Kites will once again field an all-new kit for RWC6, returning to a simpler red and gold design.

The revenge tour begins now.

one
“...Anders District Police have stated that they have identified a possible suspect, but will not be releasing any details at this time. OSCAR1 is also on site working with local authorities.”
Jeromy Alemas was realizing he really needed to find a hobby. There was no point in retiring if all he was going to do was continue analyzing global geopolitics. Normal people did not spend their days trying to simulate international incidents. At least now he could do it with a drink in hand.
The TV anchor droned on. “The Wedge campaign administration have released multiple statements, most of which say the same thing–Councilor Wedge is alive, but they cannot state his condition. Sources close to the candidate have declined to comment.”
That was a bad sign. Alemas took another sip. Wedge was a fraud and a bigot, sure, but a broad-daylight assassination would cause more problems than it solved if it succeeded. It was already turning into a considerable mess in the interim.
It was like clockwork. President Auguste, followed by every party leadership, put out statements condemning the act, calling for swift justice, and sending thoughts and prayers to Councilor Wedge and his loved ones. Every available OSCAR agent descended on Anders. ODP had held two press conferences since yesterday, rallying their voters around their new martyr. 
On second thought, “mess” might have been a naive descriptor. A more conspiratorial mind would think whoever attempted this was getting exactly what they wanted. Alemas did not like that thought. 
The doorbell rang. Alemas jumped up to answer it. He caught himself. No, he had had the camera system installed for a reason. For Grayson’s sake as much as his own, but it was pointless if he didn’t use it. He found the security panel and checked the feed.
A solitary woman was at the door, clearly trying very hard to be inconspicuous. Despite the baggy clothes and baseball cap, he could tell she was younger–younger than him, at least. A big Falcons logo was emblazoned on the hat, indicating awful taste in rugby teams.
There could have been few more suspicious people at his door, but Alemas was bored enough to take a risk. He pushed the mic button. “Be there in a moment.” 
Sliding over to the bookcase, he opened a hidden compartment and retrieved a stun gun. He then tucked it behind him as he went to answer the door in person.
“What do you want?” he asked.
The woman looked him directly in the eyes. “Special Agent Samuels?”
Immediately he tensed. Anyone who knew about that could only be bad news. But he held on to his facade. “What do you want?” he repeated.
“I need to talk to you.”
“If you need your ex killed, you’re in the wrong place.”
“It’s about what happened in Anders.” She continued to stare him down.
“You should be talking to the district police about that, not…looking for a special agent.”
“They won’t listen to me.”
Oh gods, she was a theorist, wasn’t she. “Well then. I hope you can find who you’re looking for. He doesn’t live here.”
“Don’t—”
“Ope, excuse me,” intervened Don, the mailman. “Package for you, Jeromy. They wanted you to sign for it.”
Alemas gratefully disengaged from the prior encounter and took the tablet to sign. He was equally confused by the parcel, however. He was not expecting any orders. It was an unmarked box, less than 20 centimeters deep and high and 30 wide. Maybe Grayson had something coming? No, it was definitely addressed to “Jeromy Alemas”.
He exchanged the sign tablet for the package. “See ya,” Don said cheerily. He stopped to acknowledge the woman. “Pardon again, miss.” The courier then resumed his rounds.
This left Alemas alone with the crazy girl again, but he had played off worse outs. “Sorry, I need to go in and unpack this.”
“Okay.” She did not seem interested in leaving.
“Have a good day.” Alemas gently closed the door in her face.
He suppressed a loud swear as he deposited the mystery package on the kitchen counter. In his past life, he had known Dalimbari with more tact. No use dwelling on it, though. Now, about this box…
A few swift strikes with a knife revealed the contents.
A single, fresh pineapple.
Now Alemas was truly scared. This was the second reference to his long-buried past to appear in the span of a few minutes, and it could not possibly be coincidental. Had the woman at the door arranged this?
He checked the camera again. She was still outside, waiting.
Defeated, he returned to the door. “Alright. Come inside. I’ll hear you out.”
~<(*)>~
“Thank you again, Agen–”
“ ‘Jeromy’, please. I left the badge and name behind for a reason.” He finished setting the customary hospitality coffee and turned on the machine. “And I think it’s only fair you tell me who you are.”
“Meade. Bryn Meade.” The guest had declined to sit down and was simply standing ominously in the kitchen doorway.
“And you’re with…?”
“Myself.”
How enlightening. If she was a foreign asset, they weren’t sending their best. “If you insist. Alright then, what’s the deal with Anders.”
“Everything,” Meade began, unfazed by Alemas’ condescension. “ODP wouldn’t have a hope or a prayer in this election under normal circumstances, right?”
“Sure.”
“So why would anyone try to assassinate their candidate?”
“I don’t know.”
“Exactly. It only feeds their little persecution complex, right? Second. You can see on the footage just how many cops were on scene and how quickly they responded. How’d anyone get through all that?”
“You tell me.”
“And most of all. The way the shot was timed right after those iconic ‘final words’. You couldn’t have scripted it any better. And the guy getting up afterwards to repeat it, as if a man had not been shot in broad daylight in front of him? What was his deal?”
“You mean to tell me it’s an inside job, then.”
“I think it was fully staged, and either something went wrong or Wedge is playing up being hurt. You couldn’t buy this kind of media attention during an election year.”
The coffeemaker chimed to indicate it was done brewing, providing a natural break in the conversation. “Cream or sugar?” Alemas asked, pouring the first cup. 
“Neither, thanks.” Meade accepted the mug from him.
Alemas dumped a heaping tablespoon of sugar into his coffee and a splash of milk. He was dying to ask about how this woman had found him. Casual conspiracy theorists didn’t have the wits or resources to track him down. A ranked, competitive conspiracy theorist would have a better story. But anyone will show their hand if you act like you’re not playing, he reminded himself. And the pineapple on the counter continued to perplex him.
“Okay then, suppose that’s true. What does any of it have to do with me?”
“I should think it has to do with all of us, given that it’s a presidential election.”
“But I said at the beginning. You need to take this to authorities. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do about it.”
Meade’s demeanor had still not changed. “And I said they weren’t listening, even when I showed them the website.”
“I’m sorry, the website?”
Meade produced an eyePhone and began furiously tapping. “Here. There’s this old tech forum that they’re using to send messages. They’re in code, but I’m dead certain it’s an underground network.”
GeekApparatus.sg, the banner said, in full 1400s web design glory. The thread itself was recent, ostensibly about what must have been a new Zoranian video game. Alemas had never been current on that sort of thing. And the posts themselves seemed barely coherent.
“The fourth stage takes *wayyyyyy* too long,” one user complained. Another quoted that post, adding, “There is a new pizza parlor down the street, actually.” A third user opined, “I like Frodo. How’s yours?” followed by a string of low-resolution emoticons.
“I don’t unde–” Alemas started to say, but was interrupted by realization. The syntax of these messages was familiar. A lot like something he had learned 15 years ago. No, that was it. The words were different, but it was her code.
Alemas swore under his breath. There were too many coincidences happening in short succession today. 
“What is it? Do you know it?”
Alemas composed himself. “I…ahem, it’s vaguely familiar, yes,” he hedged. He found himself glancing back at the pineapple.
“So it is something,” Meade concluded.
Some of the pieces were coming together. Yes, based on how they split, this wasn’t an unreasonable outcome. But gods, even she had higher standards than ODP. What was her game? And how did this alarmingly intense “Meade” fit into it? Were they working together? Were they dragging him into it?
They knew where he lived, and by extension where Grayson lived. Did he have the option to stay out of it?
“You’re the only person I know of who’s able to get to the bottom of this,” Meade pressed. “If I’m right, and they get away with it, all bets are off for the next six years.”
Alemas took a long, slow drag of his coffee. “So be it. Where do we start?”
1. The Overthinkers State Crime Administration & Registry, the nation’s highest law enforcement agency.

Every seat was filled at the rally, but few were truly in use as the crowd stood cheering for Councilor Duncan Wedge. 
Though Wedge was a native of Occida and a resident of Cangham, Anders had proved to be the right location to formally launch his presidential campaign. The One Direction Party had seen the most success in the southern districts of Overthinkers, and the working folk who loved their message the most had come out in force today. “New Direction,” they chanted intermittently. 
“And I have made it clear,” Wedge continued, “that I do not seek this position out of any personal ambition. Overthinkers has seen great growth under the current establishment, but those years are long past. It is time for the old guard to step aside.” He paused while the crowd applauded. “They speak of progress, but for rural Oertin, there has been only stagnation. Aurum makes the decisions, Aurum gets the profits.” 
The clapping became a roar. Wedge, easily the most animated man in the Dome, was conducting them like an orchestra. Now he held up his hand, as if seeking permission from the audience to continue his speech.
“For years, I have fought for your rights in the Council, and for years I have been brushed off, same as many of you here today. But your support today makes it clear. We will not be intimidated–”
There was a distant pop. Wedge stopped abruptly. A streak of red began to appear above his temple. The legislator began to collapse as his staffers and security rushed to his side. “Medic!” someone called out, faintly audible over the still-hot microphone.
The crowd erupted again, but now in panic, realizing what was occurring. Some ducked for cover, others tried to fight their way to a clear flight path. Security officers poured out into the courtyard, but were uselessly switching between trying to find the shooter and trying to keep the mob in order. Wedge was quickly swept off stage as an ambulance pulled up behind it.
A single figure, seated in one of the front rows, had been standing motionless as the chaos unfolded around him. Finally he stood up and began to make his way on stage, walking towards the podium. No one intervened.
He quietly leaned in to the microphone. “We will not be intimidated.”
 

one
“...Anders District Police have stated that they have identified a possible suspect, but will not be releasing any details at this time. OSCAR1 is also on site working with local authorities.”
Jeromy Alemas was realizing he really needed to find a hobby. There was no point in retiring if all he was going to do was continue analyzing global geopolitics. Normal people did not spend their days trying to simulate international incidents. At least now he could do it with a drink in hand.
The TV anchor droned on. “The Wedge campaign administration have released multiple statements, most of which say the same thing–Councilor Wedge is alive, but they cannot state his condition. Sources close to the candidate have declined to comment.”
That was a bad sign. Alemas took another sip. Wedge was a fraud and a bigot, sure, but a broad-daylight assassination would cause more problems than it solved if it succeeded. It was already turning into a considerable mess in the interim.
It was like clockwork. President Auguste, followed by every party leadership, put out statements condemning the act, calling for swift justice, and sending thoughts and prayers to Councilor Wedge and his loved ones. Every available OSCAR agent descended on Anders. ODP had held two press conferences since yesterday, rallying their voters around their new martyr. 
On second thought, “mess” might have been a naive descriptor. A more conspiratorial mind would think whoever attempted this was getting exactly what they wanted. Alemas did not like that thought. 
The doorbell rang. Alemas jumped up to answer it. He caught himself. No, he had had the camera system installed for a reason. For Grayson’s sake as much as his own, but it was pointless if he didn’t use it. He found the security panel and checked the feed.
A solitary woman was at the door, clearly trying very hard to be inconspicuous. Despite the baggy clothes and baseball cap, he could tell she was younger–younger than him, at least. A big Falcons logo was emblazoned on the hat, indicating awful taste in rugby teams.
There could have been few more suspicious people at his door, but Alemas was bored enough to take a risk. He pushed the mic button. “Be there in a moment.” 
Sliding over to the bookcase, he opened a hidden compartment and retrieved a stun gun. He then tucked it behind him as he went to answer the door in person.
“What do you want?” he asked.
The woman looked him directly in the eyes. “Special Agent Samuels?”
Immediately he tensed. Anyone who knew about that could only be bad news. But he held on to his facade. “What do you want?” he repeated.
“I need to talk to you.”
“If you need your ex killed, you’re in the wrong place.”
“It’s about what happened in Anders.” She continued to stare him down.
“You should be talking to the district police about that, not…looking for a special agent.”
“They won’t listen to me.”
Oh gods, she was a theorist, wasn’t she. “Well then. I hope you can find who you’re looking for. He doesn’t live here.”
“Don’t—”
“Ope, excuse me,” intervened Don, the mailman. “Package for you, Jeromy. They wanted you to sign for it.”
Alemas gratefully disengaged from the prior encounter and took the tablet to sign. He was equally confused by the parcel, however. He was not expecting any orders. It was an unmarked box, less than 20 centimeters deep and high and 30 wide. Maybe Grayson had something coming? No, it was definitely addressed to “Jeromy Alemas”.
He exchanged the sign tablet for the package. “See ya,” Don said cheerily. He stopped to acknowledge the woman. “Pardon again, miss.” The courier then resumed his rounds.
This left Alemas alone with the crazy girl again, but he had played off worse outs. “Sorry, I need to go in and unpack this.”
“Okay.” She did not seem interested in leaving.
“Have a good day.” Alemas gently closed the door in her face.
He suppressed a loud swear as he deposited the mystery package on the kitchen counter. In his past life, he had known Dalimbari with more tact. No use dwelling on it, though. Now, about this box…
A few swift strikes with a knife revealed the contents.
A single, fresh pineapple.
Now Alemas was truly scared. This was the second reference to his long-buried past to appear in the span of a few minutes, and it could not possibly be coincidental. Had the woman at the door arranged this?
He checked the camera again. She was still outside, waiting.
Defeated, he returned to the door. “Alright. Come inside. I’ll hear you out.”
~<(*)>~
“Thank you again, Agen–”
“ ‘Jeromy’, please. I left the badge and name behind for a reason.” He finished setting the customary hospitality coffee and turned on the machine. “And I think it’s only fair you tell me who you are.”
“Meade. Bryn Meade.” The guest had declined to sit down and was simply standing ominously in the kitchen doorway.
“And you’re with…?”
“Myself.”
How enlightening. If she was a foreign asset, they weren’t sending their best. “If you insist. Alright then, what’s the deal with Anders.”
“Everything,” Meade began, unfazed by Alemas’ condescension. “ODP wouldn’t have a hope or a prayer in this election under normal circumstances, right?”
“Sure.”
“So why would anyone try to assassinate their candidate?”
“I don’t know.”
“Exactly. It only feeds their little persecution complex, right? Second. You can see on the footage just how many cops were on scene and how quickly they responded. How’d anyone get through all that?”
“You tell me.”
“And most of all. The way the shot was timed right after those iconic ‘final words’. You couldn’t have scripted it any better. And the guy getting up afterwards to repeat it, as if a man had not been shot in broad daylight in front of him? What was his deal?”
“You mean to tell me it’s an inside job, then.”
“I think it was fully staged, and either something went wrong or Wedge is playing up being hurt. You couldn’t buy this kind of media attention during an election year.”
The coffeemaker chimed to indicate it was done brewing, providing a natural break in the conversation. “Cream or sugar?” Alemas asked, pouring the first cup. 
“Neither, thanks.” Meade accepted the mug from him.
Alemas dumped a heaping tablespoon of sugar into his coffee and a splash of milk. He was dying to ask about how this woman had found him. Casual conspiracy theorists didn’t have the wits or resources to track him down. A ranked, competitive conspiracy theorist would have a better story. But anyone will show their hand if you act like you’re not playing, he reminded himself. And the pineapple on the counter continued to perplex him.
“Okay then, suppose that’s true. What does any of it have to do with me?”
“I should think it has to do with all of us, given that it’s a presidential election.”
“But I said at the beginning. You need to take this to authorities. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do about it.”
Meade’s demeanor had still not changed. “And I said they weren’t listening, even when I showed them the website.”
“I’m sorry, the website?”
Meade produced an eyePhone and began furiously tapping. “Here. There’s this old tech forum that they’re using to send messages. They’re in code, but I’m dead certain it’s an underground network.”
GeekApparatus.sg, the banner said, in full 1400s web design glory. The thread itself was recent, ostensibly about what must have been a new Zoranian video game. Alemas had never been current on that sort of thing. And the posts themselves seemed barely coherent.
“The fourth stage takes *wayyyyyy* too long,” one user complained. Another quoted that post, adding, “There is a new pizza parlor down the street, actually.” A third user opined, “I like Frodo. How’s yours?” followed by a string of low-resolution emoticons.
“I don’t unde–” Alemas started to say, but was interrupted by realization. The syntax of these messages was familiar. A lot like something he had learned 15 years ago. No, that was it. The words were different, but it was her code.
Alemas swore under his breath. There were too many coincidences happening in short succession today. 
“What is it? Do you know it?”
Alemas composed himself. “I…ahem, it’s vaguely familiar, yes,” he hedged. He found himself glancing back at the pineapple.
“So it is something,” Meade concluded.
Some of the pieces were coming together. Yes, based on how they split, this wasn’t an unreasonable outcome. But gods, even she had higher standards than ODP. What was her game? And how did this alarmingly intense “Meade” fit into it? Were they working together? Were they dragging him into it?
They knew where he lived, and by extension where Grayson lived. Did he have the option to stay out of it?
“You’re the only person I know of who’s able to get to the bottom of this,” Meade pressed. “If I’m right, and they get away with it, all bets are off for the next six years.”
Alemas took a long, slow drag of his coffee. “So be it. Where do we start?”
1. The Overthinkers State Crime Administration & Registry, the nation’s highest law enforcement agency.

Every seat was filled at the rally, but few were truly in use as the crowd stood cheering for Councilor Duncan Wedge. 
Though Wedge was a native of Occida and a resident of Cangham, Anders had proved to be the right location to formally launch his presidential campaign. The One Direction Party had seen the most success in the southern districts of Overthinkers, and the working folk who loved their message the most had come out in force today. “New Direction,” they chanted intermittently. 
“And I have made it clear,” Wedge continued, “that I do not seek this position out of any personal ambition. Overthinkers has seen great growth under the current establishment, but those years are long past. It is time for the old guard to step aside.” He paused while the crowd applauded. “They speak of progress, but for rural Oertin, there has been only stagnation. Aurum makes the decisions, Aurum gets the profits.” 
The clapping became a roar. Wedge, easily the most animated man in the Dome, was conducting them like an orchestra. Now he held up his hand, as if seeking permission from the audience to continue his speech.
“For years, I have fought for your rights in the Council, and for years I have been brushed off, same as many of you here today. But your support today makes it clear. We will not be intimidated–”
There was a distant pop. Wedge stopped abruptly. A streak of red began to appear above his temple. The legislator began to collapse as his staffers and security rushed to his side. “Medic!” someone called out, faintly audible over the still-hot microphone.
The crowd erupted again, but now in panic, realizing what was occurring. Some ducked for cover, others tried to fight their way to a clear flight path. Security officers poured out into the courtyard, but were uselessly switching between trying to find the shooter and trying to keep the mob in order. Wedge was quickly swept off stage as an ambulance pulled up behind it.
A single figure, seated in one of the front rows, had been standing motionless as the chaos unfolded around him. Finally he stood up and began to make his way on stage, walking towards the podium. No one intervened.
He quietly leaned in to the microphone. “We will not be intimidated.”
 

one
“...Anders District Police have stated that they have identified a possible suspect, but will not be releasing any details at this time. OSCAR1 is also on site working with local authorities.”
Jeromy Alemas was realizing he really needed to find a hobby. There was no point in retiring if all he was going to do was continue analyzing global geopolitics. Normal people did not spend their days trying to simulate international incidents. At least now he could do it with a drink in hand.
The TV anchor droned on. “The Wedge campaign administration have released multiple statements, most of which say the same thing–Councilor Wedge is alive, but they cannot state his condition. Sources close to the candidate have declined to comment.”
That was a bad sign. Alemas took another sip. Wedge was a fraud and a bigot, sure, but a broad-daylight assassination would cause more problems than it solved if it succeeded. It was already turning into a considerable mess in the interim.
It was like clockwork. President Auguste, followed by every party leadership, put out statements condemning the act, calling for swift justice, and sending thoughts and prayers to Councilor Wedge and his loved ones. Every available OSCAR agent descended on Anders. ODP had held two press conferences since yesterday, rallying their voters around their new martyr. 
On second thought, “mess” might have been a naive descriptor. A more conspiratorial mind would think whoever attempted this was getting exactly what they wanted. Alemas did not like that thought. 
The doorbell rang. Alemas jumped up to answer it. He caught himself. No, he had had the camera system installed for a reason. For Grayson’s sake as much as his own, but it was pointless if he didn’t use it. He found the security panel and checked the feed.
A solitary woman was at the door, clearly trying very hard to be inconspicuous. Despite the baggy clothes and baseball cap, he could tell she was younger–younger than him, at least. A big Falcons logo was emblazoned on the hat, indicating awful taste in rugby teams.
There could have been few more suspicious people at his door, but Alemas was bored enough to take a risk. He pushed the mic button. “Be there in a moment.” 
Sliding over to the bookcase, he opened a hidden compartment and retrieved a stun gun. He then tucked it behind him as he went to answer the door in person.
“What do you want?” he asked.
The woman looked him directly in the eyes. “Special Agent Samuels?”
Immediately he tensed. Anyone who knew about that could only be bad news. But he held on to his facade. “What do you want?” he repeated.
“I need to talk to you.”
“If you need your ex killed, you’re in the wrong place.”
“It’s about what happened in Anders.” She continued to stare him down.
“You should be talking to the district police about that, not…looking for a special agent.”
“They won’t listen to me.”
Oh gods, she was a theorist, wasn’t she. “Well then. I hope you can find who you’re looking for. He doesn’t live here.”
“Don’t—”
“Ope, excuse me,” intervened Don, the mailman. “Package for you, Jeromy. They wanted you to sign for it.”
Alemas gratefully disengaged from the prior encounter and took the tablet to sign. He was equally confused by the parcel, however. He was not expecting any orders. It was an unmarked box, less than 20 centimeters deep and high and 30 wide. Maybe Grayson had something coming? No, it was definitely addressed to “Jeromy Alemas”.
He exchanged the sign tablet for the package. “See ya,” Don said cheerily. He stopped to acknowledge the woman. “Pardon again, miss.” The courier then resumed his rounds.
This left Alemas alone with the crazy girl again, but he had played off worse outs. “Sorry, I need to go in and unpack this.”
“Okay.” She did not seem interested in leaving.
“Have a good day.” Alemas gently closed the door in her face.
He suppressed a loud swear as he deposited the mystery package on the kitchen counter. In his past life, he had known Dalimbari with more tact. No use dwelling on it, though. Now, about this box…
A few swift strikes with a knife revealed the contents.
A single, fresh pineapple.
Now Alemas was truly scared. This was the second reference to his long-buried past to appear in the span of a few minutes, and it could not possibly be coincidental. Had the woman at the door arranged this?
He checked the camera again. She was still outside, waiting.
Defeated, he returned to the door. “Alright. Come inside. I’ll hear you out.”
~<(*)>~
“Thank you again, Agen–”
“ ‘Jeromy’, please. I left the badge and name behind for a reason.” He finished setting the customary hospitality coffee and turned on the machine. “And I think it’s only fair you tell me who you are.”
“Meade. Bryn Meade.” The guest had declined to sit down and was simply standing ominously in the kitchen doorway.
“And you’re with…?”
“Myself.”
How enlightening. If she was a foreign asset, they weren’t sending their best. “If you insist. Alright then, what’s the deal with Anders.”
“Everything,” Meade began, unfazed by Alemas’ condescension. “ODP wouldn’t have a hope or a prayer in this election under normal circumstances, right?”
“Sure.”
“So why would anyone try to assassinate their candidate?”
“I don’t know.”
“Exactly. It only feeds their little persecution complex, right? Second. You can see on the footage just how many cops were on scene and how quickly they responded. How’d anyone get through all that?”
“You tell me.”
“And most of all. The way the shot was timed right after those iconic ‘final words’. You couldn’t have scripted it any better. And the guy getting up afterwards to repeat it, as if a man had not been shot in broad daylight in front of him? What was his deal?”
“You mean to tell me it’s an inside job, then.”
“I think it was fully staged, and either something went wrong or Wedge is playing up being hurt. You couldn’t buy this kind of media attention during an election year.”
The coffeemaker chimed to indicate it was done brewing, providing a natural break in the conversation. “Cream or sugar?” Alemas asked, pouring the first cup. 
“Neither, thanks.” Meade accepted the mug from him.
Alemas dumped a heaping tablespoon of sugar into his coffee and a splash of milk. He was dying to ask about how this woman had found him. Casual conspiracy theorists didn’t have the wits or resources to track him down. A ranked, competitive conspiracy theorist would have a better story. But anyone will show their hand if you act like you’re not playing, he reminded himself. And the pineapple on the counter continued to perplex him.
“Okay then, suppose that’s true. What does any of it have to do with me?”
“I should think it has to do with all of us, given that it’s a presidential election.”
“But I said at the beginning. You need to take this to authorities. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do about it.”
Meade’s demeanor had still not changed. “And I said they weren’t listening, even when I showed them the website.”
“I’m sorry, the website?”
Meade produced an eyePhone and began furiously tapping. “Here. There’s this old tech forum that they’re using to send messages. They’re in code, but I’m dead certain it’s an underground network.”
GeekApparatus.sg, the banner said, in full 1400s web design glory. The thread itself was recent, ostensibly about what must have been a new Zoranian video game. Alemas had never been current on that sort of thing. And the posts themselves seemed barely coherent.
“The fourth stage takes *wayyyyyy* too long,” one user complained. Another quoted that post, adding, “There is a new pizza parlor down the street, actually.” A third user opined, “I like Frodo. How’s yours?” followed by a string of low-resolution emoticons.
“I don’t unde–” Alemas started to say, but was interrupted by realization. The syntax of these messages was familiar. A lot like something he had learned 15 years ago. No, that was it. The words were different, but it was her code.
Alemas swore under his breath. There were too many coincidences happening in short succession today. 
“What is it? Do you know it?”
Alemas composed himself. “I…ahem, it’s vaguely familiar, yes,” he hedged. He found himself glancing back at the pineapple.
“So it is something,” Meade concluded.
Some of the pieces were coming together. Yes, based on how they split, this wasn’t an unreasonable outcome. But gods, even she had higher standards than ODP. What was her game? And how did this alarmingly intense “Meade” fit into it? Were they working together? Were they dragging him into it?
They knew where he lived, and by extension where Grayson lived. Did he have the option to stay out of it?
“You’re the only person I know of who’s able to get to the bottom of this,” Meade pressed. “If I’m right, and they get away with it, all bets are off for the next six years.”
Alemas took a long, slow drag of his coffee. “So be it. Where do we start?”
1. The Overthinkers State Crime Administration & Registry, the nation’s highest law enforcement agency.

Every seat was filled at the rally, but few were truly in use as the crowd stood cheering for Councilor Duncan Wedge. 
Though Wedge was a native of Occida and a resident of Cangham, Anders had proved to be the right location to formally launch his presidential campaign. The One Direction Party had seen the most success in the southern districts of Overthinkers, and the working folk who loved their message the most had come out in force today. “New Direction,” they chanted intermittently. 
“And I have made it clear,” Wedge continued, “that I do not seek this position out of any personal ambition. Overthinkers has seen great growth under the current establishment, but those years are long past. It is time for the old guard to step aside.” He paused while the crowd applauded. “They speak of progress, but for rural Oertin, there has been only stagnation. Aurum makes the decisions, Aurum gets the profits.” 
The clapping became a roar. Wedge, easily the most animated man in the Dome, was conducting them like an orchestra. Now he held up his hand, as if seeking permission from the audience to continue his speech.
“For years, I have fought for your rights in the Council, and for years I have been brushed off, same as many of you here today. But your support today makes it clear. We will not be intimidated–”
There was a distant pop. Wedge stopped abruptly. A streak of red began to appear above his temple. The legislator began to collapse as his staffers and security rushed to his side. “Medic!” someone called out, faintly audible over the still-hot microphone.
The crowd erupted again, but now in panic, realizing what was occurring. Some ducked for cover, others tried to fight their way to a clear flight path. Security officers poured out into the courtyard, but were uselessly switching between trying to find the shooter and trying to keep the mob in order. Wedge was quickly swept off stage as an ambulance pulled up behind it.
A single figure, seated in one of the front rows, had been standing motionless as the chaos unfolded around him. Finally he stood up and began to make his way on stage, walking towards the podium. No one intervened.
He quietly leaned in to the microphone. “We will not be intimidated.”
 

Every seat was filled at the rally, but few were truly in use as the crowd stood cheering for Councilor Duncan Wedge. 
Though Wedge was a native of Occida and a resident of Cangham, Anders had proved to be the right location to formally launch his presidential campaign. The One Direction Party had seen the most success in the southern districts of Overthinkers, and the working folk who loved their message the most had come out in force today. “New Direction,” they chanted intermittently. 
“And I have made it clear,” Wedge continued, “that I do not seek this position out of any personal ambition. Overthinkers has seen great growth under the current establishment, but those years are long past. It is time for the old guard to step aside.” He paused while the crowd applauded. “They speak of progress, but for rural Oertin, there has been only stagnation. Aurum makes the decisions, Aurum gets the profits.” 
The clapping became a roar. Wedge, easily the most animated man in the Dome, was conducting them like an orchestra. Now he held up his hand, as if seeking permission from the audience to continue his speech.
“For years, I have fought for your rights in the Council, and for years I have been brushed off, same as many of you here today. But your support today makes it clear. We will not be intimidated–”
There was a distant pop. Wedge stopped abruptly. A streak of red began to appear above his temple. The legislator began to collapse as his staffers and security rushed to his side. “Medic!” someone called out, faintly audible over the still-hot microphone.
The crowd erupted again, but now in panic, realizing what was occurring. Some ducked for cover, others tried to fight their way to a clear flight path. Security officers poured out into the courtyard, but were uselessly switching between trying to find the shooter and trying to keep the mob in order. Wedge was quickly swept off stage as an ambulance pulled up behind it.
A single figure, seated in one of the front rows, had been standing motionless as the chaos unfolded around him. Finally he stood up and began to make his way on stage, walking towards the podium. No one intervened.
He quietly leaned in to the microphone. “We will not be intimidated.”
 

Every seat was filled at the rally, but few were truly in use as the crowd stood cheering for Councilor Duncan Wedge. 
Though Wedge was a native of Occida and a resident of Cangham, Anders had proved to be the right location to formally launch his presidential campaign. The One Direction Party had seen the most success in the southern districts of Overthinkers, and the working folk who loved their message the most had come out in force today. “New Direction,” they chanted intermittently. 
“And I have made it clear,” Wedge continued, “that I do not seek this position out of any personal ambition. Overthinkers has seen great growth under the current establishment, but those years are long past. It is time for the old guard to step aside.” He paused while the crowd applauded. “They speak of progress, but for rural Oertin, there has been only stagnation. Aurum makes the decisions, Aurum gets the profits.” 
The clapping became a roar. Wedge, easily the most animated man in the Dome, was conducting them like an orchestra. Now he held up his hand, as if seeking permission from the audience to continue his speech.
“For years, I have fought for your rights in the Council, and for years I have been brushed off, same as many of you here today. But your support today makes it clear. We will not be intimidated–”
There was a distant pop. Wedge stopped abruptly. A streak of red began to appear above his temple. The legislator began to collapse as his staffers and security rushed to his side. “Medic!” someone called out, faintly audible over the still-hot microphone.
The crowd erupted again, but now in panic, realizing what was occurring. Some ducked for cover, others tried to fight their way to a clear flight path. Security officers poured out into the courtyard, but were uselessly switching between trying to find the shooter and trying to keep the mob in order. Wedge was quickly swept off stage as an ambulance pulled up behind it.
A single figure, seated in one of the front rows, had been standing motionless as the chaos unfolded around him. Finally he stood up and began to make his way on stage, walking towards the podium. No one intervened.
He quietly leaned in to the microphone. “We will not be intimidated.”
 

The following is a dramatization of real events surrounding the 1425 Presidential Election in Overthinkers. Many of the incidents recounted here are real, but the specific individuals and their involvement may be exaggerated, misrepresented, or made up entirely.
 
 
 

Every seat was filled at the rally, but few were truly in use as the crowd stood cheering for Councilor Duncan Wedge. 
Though Wedge was a native of Occida and a resident of Cangham, Anders had proved to be the right location to formally launch his presidential campaign. The One Direction Party had seen the most success in the southern districts of Overthinkers, and the working folk who loved their message the most had come out in force today. “New Direction,” they chanted intermittently. 
“And I have made it clear,” Wedge continued, “that I do not seek this position out of any personal ambition. Overthinkers has seen great growth under the current establishment, but those years are long past. It is time for the old guard to step aside.” He paused while the crowd applauded. “They speak of progress, but for rural Oertin, there has been only stagnation. Aurum makes the decisions, Aurum gets the profits.” 
The clapping became a roar. Wedge, easily the most animated man in the Dome, was conducting them like an orchestra. Now he held up his hand, as if seeking permission from the audience to continue his speech.
“For years, I have fought for your rights in the Council, and for years I have been brushed off, same as many of you here today. But your support today makes it clear. We will not be intimidated–”
There was a distant pop. Wedge stopped abruptly. A streak of red began to appear above his temple. The legislator began to collapse as his staffers and security rushed to his side. “Medic!” someone called out, faintly audible over the still-hot microphone.
The crowd erupted again, but now in panic, realizing what was occurring. Some ducked for cover, others tried to fight their way to a clear flight path. Security officers poured out into the courtyard, but were uselessly switching between trying to find the shooter and trying to keep the mob in order. Wedge was quickly swept off stage as an ambulance pulled up behind it.
A single figure, seated in one of the front rows, had been standing motionless as the chaos unfolded around him. Finally he stood up and began to make his way on stage, walking towards the podium. No one intervened.
He quietly leaned in to the microphone. “We will not be intimidated.”
 

The following is a dramatization of real events surrounding the 1425 Presidential Election in Overthinkers. Many of the incidents recounted here are real, but the specific individuals and their involvement may be exaggerated, misrepresented, or made up entirely.
 
 
 

And done.

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Retrospective: What the BRAVO Act taught us about Overthinking politics

Hailee Quinn
Politics Editor
Earlier this week, President Auguste signed the BRAVO Act into law, marking the conclusion of a legislative saga that no one really cared about outside of politics nerds. In fairness, we have more than our fair share of those in this country, but it’s still hard to get the average person invested in a highly contained drama that requires a political science degree to understand. 
As we enter the 1425 election cycle, however, this single bill revealed a number of loose cogs in old George’s well-oiled machine. All the politics surrounding it perfectly exemplify the issues being faced by party leadership as Auguste steps aside. Also, us wonks needed justification for all the energy we put into this, so here you have it.
 
Lesson 1: NUP isn’t very united
No one was more noticeably or dramatically divided on the issue than the New Union Party. As the largest and longest-active party in Overthinkers, it’s generally assumed that their leadership has things under control. When the Dome erupts into debate and NUPers are the first in line on either side, it erodes that image slightly.
Not that this was an isolated incident. Voting records over the past two years show an increasing trend in noncompliance among NUP legislators. The alliance with the Progressive Overthinking Party has continued to hold, resulting in little risk to NUP’s policy control, but when the establishment party stops being established, all hell can break loose. Clara Silva has very blatantly spent the last year preparing to take the torch from Auguste. If NUP can’t put their whole weight behind her, it leaves the door open for other challengers.
 
Lesson 2: POP isn’t progressing
The POP was also divided, but it’s always divided. That’s exactly the problem. Young voters are flocking to this party in droves, but still can’t figure out how to work with one another effectively. Instead, you find four or five different camps forming within POP ranks on every issue. It’s like they’re a stack of REPs in a trenchcoat.
Specifically, we know that the BRAVO Act had legislators choosing the hill of environment, public safety and public transport, or personal expense, then very dramatically staging their own deaths thereupon. Even on the same side of the debate, members of the same party were giving mixed messages.
Alexander Wesson, Jon Corn and company have their work cut out for them putting the rails on their junior counterparts ahead of the election. If they can find the same page, their momentum might just carry their candidate over the line.
 
Lesson 3: ODP has direction
True to their name, the One Direction Party was the one party that didn’t have a compliance problem with the BRAVO Act (not counting the Radical Equality Party, because you never count the Radical Equality Party). From day one, they had their line figured out: regulation is invasive and costly; besides, why would the environmentally-minded parties try to forestall the adoption of eco-friendly technology? 
No doubt the tight reins are a necessity for Overthinkers’ furthest-right party, which has always sat in the minority position. After taking a big hit in the 1419 election due to the antics of one Torrance Maid, they clawed back to prior levels in 1921, and reached a new high in 1923. Whatever they’re selling, it’s catching on in the western and southern areas of Overthinkers. Recent trends in Varanius may only embolden them.
Any political entity with ODP’s level of focus should not be underestimated. The elections of 1377 and 1401 taught us that. If NUP can’t find a way to derail their propaganda train, ODP stands to at least deal some damage that they can cash in on two, four, or six years from now.
 
Lesson 4: Business interests are here to stay
The BRAVO Act saw major players in the EV sector mobilize politically in a way that 40 years ago would have been shocking and out of line. Today, no one really gave it a second thought. They may not have gotten what they wanted, but they’ve opened a door. 
Overthinking legislators have been receptive to businesses and their concerns for ever, but there were unwritten rules that public and private sector understood. Lobbying was a low-key affair where you sat with your representative, they heard you out, and then you parted ways with no verifiable promises made. Corporations decided to switch tactics. Now, they’re pitching policies to politicians like they pitch their products to investors.
You will hear an occasional murmur suggesting that more stringent lobbying rules are needed, but until a major corruption case comes out of it, most will continue to let it slide. As long as that is the case, big business will only become bolder in their courting of legislators.
 
Lesson 5: No one is complacent
It’s a small victory, for the people of Overthinkers more than anyone else, but it’s not all bad: if nothing else, the BRAVO Act’s rocky journey proves that our lawmakers are attentive and active. No one is too comfortable to the point where they will not rock the boat if they deem necessary.
A complacent legislature would have shrugged and moved on the moment that the going got tough. Instead, they mobilized. They considered it important enough to snatch it from the bureaucratic void, fix the issues holding it back, and push it through. Regardless of your opinions, a proactive legislature is generally a net positive.
It would be cliche to say that Overthinkers have a big decision to make next year, but it’s clear that our political leadership have some big decisions to make before then. The election may hinge on which camp gets their act together in time for the campaign season to start.

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Retrospective: What the BRAVO Act taught us about Overthinking politics

Hailee Quinn
Politics Editor
Earlier this week, President Auguste signed the BRAVO Act into law, marking the conclusion of a legislative saga that no one really cared about outside of politics nerds. In fairness, we have more than our fair share of those in this country, but it’s still hard to get the average person invested in a highly contained drama that requires a political science degree to understand. 
As we enter the 1425 election cycle, however, this single bill revealed a number of loose cogs in old George’s well-oiled machine. All the politics surrounding it perfectly exemplify the issues being faced by party leadership as Auguste steps aside. Also, us wonks needed justification for all the energy we put into this, so here you have it.
 
Lesson 1: NUP isn’t very united
No one was more noticeably or dramatically divided on the issue than the New Union Party. As the largest and longest-active party in Overthinkers, it’s generally assumed that their leadership has things under control. When the Dome erupts into debate and NUPers are the first in line on either side, it erodes that image slightly.
Not that this was an isolated incident. Voting records over the past two years show an increasing trend in noncompliance among NUP legislators. The alliance with the Progressive Overthinking Party has continued to hold, resulting in little risk to NUP’s policy control, but when the establishment party stops being established, all hell can break loose. Clara Silva has very blatantly spent the last year preparing to take the torch from Auguste. If NUP can’t put their whole weight behind her, it leaves the door open for other challengers.
 
Lesson 2: POP isn’t progressing
The POP was also divided, but it’s always divided. That’s exactly the problem. Young voters are flocking to this party in droves, but still can’t figure out how to work with one another effectively. Instead, you find four or five different camps forming within POP ranks on every issue. It’s like they’re a stack of REPs in a trenchcoat.
Specifically, we know that the BRAVO Act had legislators choosing the hill of environment, public safety and public transport, or personal expense, then very dramatically staging their own deaths thereupon. Even on the same side of the debate, members of the same party were giving mixed messages.
Alexander Wesson, Jon Corn and company have their work cut out for them putting the rails on their junior counterparts ahead of the election. If they can find the same page, their momentum might just carry their candidate over the line.
 
Lesson 3: ODP has direction
True to their name, the One Direction Party was the one party that didn’t have a compliance problem with the BRAVO Act (not counting the Radical Equality Party, because you never count the Radical Equality Party). From day one, they had their line figured out: regulation is invasive and costly; besides, why would the environmentally-minded parties try to forestall the adoption of eco-friendly technology? 
No doubt the tight reins are a necessity for Overthinkers’ furthest-right party, which has always sat in the minority position. After taking a big hit in the 1419 election due to the antics of one Torrance Maid, they clawed back to prior levels in 1921, and reached a new high in 1923. Whatever they’re selling, it’s catching on in the western and southern areas of Overthinkers. Recent trends in Varanius may only embolden them.
Any political entity with ODP’s level of focus should not be underestimated. The elections of 1377 and 1401 taught us that. If NUP can’t find a way to derail their propaganda train, ODP stands to at least deal some damage that they can cash in on two, four, or six years from now.
 
Lesson 4: Business interests are here to stay
The BRAVO Act saw major players in the EV sector mobilize politically in a way that 40 years ago would have been shocking and out of line. Today, no one really gave it a second thought. They may not have gotten what they wanted, but they’ve opened a door. 
Overthinking legislators have been receptive to businesses and their concerns for ever, but there were unwritten rules that public and private sector understood. Lobbying was a low-key affair where you sat with your representative, they heard you out, and then you parted ways with no verifiable promises made. Corporations decided to switch tactics. Now, they’re pitching policies to politicians like they pitch their products to investors.
You will hear an occasional murmur suggesting that more stringent lobbying rules are needed, but until a major corruption case comes out of it, most will continue to let it slide. As long as that is the case, big business will only become bolder in their courting of legislators.
 
Lesson 5: No one is complacent
It’s a small victory, for the people of Overthinkers more than anyone else, but it’s not all bad: if nothing else, the BRAVO Act’s rocky journey proves that our lawmakers are attentive and active. No one is too comfortable to the point where they will not rock the boat if they deem necessary.
A complacent legislature would have shrugged and moved on the moment that the going got tough. Instead, they mobilized. They considered it important enough to snatch it from the bureaucratic void, fix the issues holding it back, and push it through. Regardless of your opinions, a proactive legislature is generally a net positive.
It would be cliche to say that Overthinkers have a big decision to make next year, but it’s clear that our political leadership have some big decisions to make before then. The election may hinge on which camp gets their act together in time for the campaign season to start.

Support independent journalism for cents a day. Subscribe for μ5/month >>
X

Retrospective: What the BRAVO Act taught us about Overthinking politics

Hailee Quinn
Politics Editor
Earlier this week, President Auguste signed the BRAVO Act into law, marking the conclusion of a legislative saga that no one really cared about outside of politics nerds. In fairness, we have more than our fair share of those in this country, but it’s still hard to get the average person invested in a highly contained drama that requires a political science degree to understand. 
As we enter the 1425 election cycle, however, this single bill revealed a number of loose cogs in old George’s well-oiled machine. All the politics surrounding it perfectly exemplify the issues being faced by party leadership as Auguste steps aside. Also, us wonks needed justification for all the energy we put into this, so here you have it.
 
Lesson 1: NUP isn’t very united
No one was more noticeably or dramatically divided on the issue than the New Union Party. As the largest and longest-active party in Overthinkers, it’s generally assumed that their leadership has things under control. When the Dome erupts into debate and NUPers are the first in line on either side, it erodes that image slightly.
Not that this was an isolated incident. Voting records over the past two years show an increasing trend in noncompliance among NUP legislators. The alliance with the Progressive Overthinking Party has continued to hold, resulting in little risk to NUP’s policy control, but when the establishment party stops being established, all hell can break loose. Clara Silva has very blatantly spent the last year preparing to take the torch from Auguste. If NUP can’t put their whole weight behind her, it leaves the door open for other challengers.
 
Lesson 2: POP isn’t progressing
The POP was also divided, but it’s always divided. That’s exactly the problem. Young voters are flocking to this party in droves, but still can’t figure out how to work with one another effectively. Instead, you find four or five different camps forming within POP ranks on every issue. It’s like they’re a stack of REPs in a trenchcoat.
Specifically, we know that the BRAVO Act had legislators choosing the hill of environment, public safety and public transport, or personal expense, then very dramatically staging their own deaths thereupon. Even on the same side of the debate, members of the same party were giving mixed messages.
Alexander Wesson, Jon Corn and company have their work cut out for them putting the rails on their junior counterparts ahead of the election. If they can find the same page, their momentum might just carry their candidate over the line.
 
Lesson 3: ODP has direction
True to their name, the One Direction Party was the one party that didn’t have a compliance problem with the BRAVO Act (not counting the Radical Equality Party, because you never count the Radical Equality Party). From day one, they had their line figured out: regulation is invasive and costly; besides, why would the environmentally-minded parties try to forestall the adoption of eco-friendly technology? 
No doubt the tight reins are a necessity for Overthinkers’ furthest-right party, which has always sat in the minority position. After taking a big hit in the 1419 election due to the antics of one Torrance Maid, they clawed back to prior levels in 1921, and reached a new high in 1923. Whatever they’re selling, it’s catching on in the western and southern areas of Overthinkers. Recent trends in Varanius may only embolden them.
Any political entity with ODP’s level of focus should not be underestimated. The elections of 1377 and 1401 taught us that. If NUP can’t find a way to derail their propaganda train, ODP stands to at least deal some damage that they can cash in on two, four, or six years from now.
 
Lesson 4: Business interests are here to stay
The BRAVO Act saw major players in the EV sector mobilize politically in a way that 40 years ago would have been shocking and out of line. Today, no one really gave it a second thought. They may not have gotten what they wanted, but they’ve opened a door. 
Overthinking legislators have been receptive to businesses and their concerns for ever, but there were unwritten rules that public and private sector understood. Lobbying was a low-key affair where you sat with your representative, they heard you out, and then you parted ways with no verifiable promises made. Corporations decided to switch tactics. Now, they’re pitching policies to politicians like they pitch their products to investors.
You will hear an occasional murmur suggesting that more stringent lobbying rules are needed, but until a major corruption case comes out of it, most will continue to let it slide. As long as that is the case, big business will only become bolder in their courting of legislators.
 
Lesson 5: No one is complacent
It’s a small victory, for the people of Overthinkers more than anyone else, but it’s not all bad: if nothing else, the BRAVO Act’s rocky journey proves that our lawmakers are attentive and active. No one is too comfortable to the point where they will not rock the boat if they deem necessary.
A complacent legislature would have shrugged and moved on the moment that the going got tough. Instead, they mobilized. They considered it important enough to snatch it from the bureaucratic void, fix the issues holding it back, and push it through. Regardless of your opinions, a proactive legislature is generally a net positive.
It would be cliche to say that Overthinkers have a big decision to make next year, but it’s clear that our political leadership have some big decisions to make before then. The election may hinge on which camp gets their act together in time for the campaign season to start.

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Retrospective: What the BRAVO Act taught us about Overthinking politics

Hailee Quinn
Politics Editor
Earlier this week, President Auguste signed the BRAVO Act into law, marking the conclusion of a legislative saga that no one really cared about outside of politics nerds. In fairness, we have more than our fair share of those in this country, but it’s still hard to get the average person invested in a highly contained drama that requires a political science degree to understand. 
As we enter the 1425 election cycle, however, this single bill revealed a number of loose cogs in old George’s well-oiled machine. All the politics surrounding it perfectly exemplify the issues being faced by party leadership as Auguste steps aside. Also, us wonks needed justification for all the energy we put into this, so here you have it.
 
Lesson 1: NUP isn’t very united
No one was more noticeably or dramatically divided on the issue than the New Union Party. As the largest and longest-active party in Overthinkers, it’s generally assumed that their leadership has things under control. When the Dome erupts into debate and NUPers are the first in line on either side, it erodes that image slightly.
Not that this was an isolated incident. Voting records over the past two years show an increasing trend in noncompliance among NUP legislators. The alliance with the Progressive Overthinking Party has continued to hold, resulting in little risk to NUP’s policy control, but when the establishment party stops being established, all hell can break loose. Clara Silva has very blatantly spent the last year preparing to take the torch from Auguste. If NUP can’t put their whole weight behind her, it leaves the door open for other challengers.
 
Lesson 2: POP isn’t progressing
The POP was also divided, but it’s always divided. That’s exactly the problem. Young voters are flocking to this party in droves, but still can’t figure out how to work with one another effectively. Instead, you find four or five different camps forming within POP ranks on every issue. It’s like they’re a stack of REPs in a trenchcoat.
Specifically, we know that the BRAVO Act had legislators choosing the hill of environment, public safety and public transport, or personal expense, then very dramatically staging their own deaths thereupon. Even on the same side of the debate, members of the same party were giving mixed messages.
Alexander Wesson, Jon Corn and company have their work cut out for them putting the rails on their junior counterparts ahead of the election. If they can find the same page, their momentum might just carry their candidate over the line.
 
Lesson 3: ODP has direction
True to their name, the One Direction Party was the one party that didn’t have a compliance problem with the BRAVO Act (not counting the Radical Equality Party, because you never count the Radical Equality Party). From day one, they had their line figured out: regulation is invasive and costly; besides, why would the environmentally-minded parties try to forestall the adoption of eco-friendly technology? 
No doubt the tight reins are a necessity for Overthinkers’ furthest-right party, which has always sat in the minority position. After taking a big hit in the 1419 election due to the antics of one Torrance Maid, they clawed back to prior levels in 1921, and reached a new high in 1923. Whatever they’re selling, it’s catching on in the western and southern areas of Overthinkers. Recent trends in Varanius may only embolden them.
Any political entity with ODP’s level of focus should not be underestimated. The elections of 1377 and 1401 taught us that. If NUP can’t find a way to derail their propaganda train, ODP stands to at least deal some damage that they can cash in on two, four, or six years from now.
 
Lesson 4: Business interests are here to stay
The BRAVO Act saw major players in the EV sector mobilize politically in a way that 40 years ago would have been shocking and out of line. Today, no one really gave it a second thought. They may not have gotten what they wanted, but they’ve opened a door. 
Overthinking legislators have been receptive to businesses and their concerns for ever, but there were unwritten rules that public and private sector understood. Lobbying was a low-key affair where you sat with your representative, they heard you out, and then you parted ways with no verifiable promises made. Corporations decided to switch tactics. Now, they’re pitching policies to politicians like they pitch their products to investors.
You will hear an occasional murmur suggesting that more stringent lobbying rules are needed, but until a major corruption case comes out of it, most will continue to let it slide. As long as that is the case, big business will only become bolder in their courting of legislators.
 
Lesson 5: No one is complacent
It’s a small victory, for the people of Overthinkers more than anyone else, but it’s not all bad: if nothing else, the BRAVO Act’s rocky journey proves that our lawmakers are attentive and active. No one is too comfortable to the point where they will not rock the boat if they deem necessary.
A complacent legislature would have shrugged and moved on the moment that the going got tough. Instead, they mobilized. They considered it important enough to snatch it from the bureaucratic void, fix the issues holding it back, and push it through. Regardless of your opinions, a proactive legislature is generally a net positive.
It would be cliche to say that Overthinkers have a big decision to make next year, but it’s clear that our political leadership have some big decisions to make before then. The election may hinge on which camp gets their act together in time for the campaign season to start.

Ryxtylopia vs Overthinkers - Match Highlights
 
Both sides entered the field, Ryxtylopia wearing the 1st kit, as the local crowd started to cheer for their team, both sides standing for their national anthem as they prepared to begin the game. For the locals this could mean going to the finals on their own turf. For Ryxtylopia it could mean an improvement from last year's performance.
Pablo Virriscayda would once again be commentating for TVNC, with the match about to start, as both teams just waited for the coinflip and took their sides. The coinflip was done with the hosts winning it and deciding to kick off.
 
"Ladies and Gentlemen, prepare! We have Ryxtylopia vs Overthinkers now live from... well, Overthinkers! Its time for the coin toss... annd OVERTHINKERS! Wins it, they... they elect to kick off, its time to face the hosts in a match that promises intensity for both sides involved."
 
KICK OFF:
Overthinkers would inmediatley start off the match agressivley placing pressure on the defense which was contained for the first few minutes of the game, seeing a lot of mauls and rucks, as well as frecuent possession changes.
"Ladies and Gentlemen... OVERTHINKERS VS RYXTYLOPIA HAS NOW BEGUN! Live directly from the host nation on TVNC, go Ryxtylopia, go Pirates!"
 
6 Minutes in... (0-0)
Soon after the start of the match, Overthinkers would make the first dangerous approach towards the ryxtylopian line, with their Nº4: Jena Cantor, leading the attack after a ruck, taking advantage of the gaps in the Ryxtylopian line to get through, passing the midfield and making it about 3/4 into the pitch, before being tackled by Guilbirto Tivaña who with the help of Rinaco Patochá regained possession for the Pirates.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we got a ruck- and possession is now for... Cantor, attention, Cantor, Cantor, Cantor, Overthinkers on the attack, they cross the midfield, Cantor, Tivaña, Cantor, Tivaña, Cantooooooooor- Tackle! Tackle by Tivaña, Patochá regains possession for Ryxtylopia!"
 
13 Minutes in... (0-0)
Ryxtylopia's first chance to score would be on the 13th, following one of Overthinker's attempts, with Armando Mataña making progress through the left, then passing the ball to Pailo Darrias, before he got tackled by Andrew Hall, with Overthinkers quickly restarting their attack after recapturing possession.
"Mataña! Mataña on the left, making good progress, Mataña will probably need to look for a pass, attention! Mataña to Darrias, Darrias is through with the ball, and- TACKLE! Darrias gets tackled by Hall, Overthinkers is now back in the attack, the game remains 0-0!"
 
28 Minutes in... (3-0)
The game after the first tries for each team started to devolve into a stalemate with Overthinkers pressuring the ryxtylopian defense, loosing possession, and Ryxtylopia attempting to go on the attack but then loosing possession to the Overthinkers counter-attack. This would sort of end with one of Overthinker's attacks in the 28th, when their team captain and Nº8: Theresa Argent led a kick that ended in the hands of David Nauta, who was able to quickly turn around Marco Va'atí when approaching the goal, before being surrounded by Ernysto Rivas and Ferrán Lisquerva, which resulted in David attempting to score a drop goal, kicking the ball between the two posts and earning Overthinkers the first points of the game.
"We got Argent, Argent Argeeeeeeeeent- kick to Nauta, the hosts continue pressuring the defense, Nauta, Va'atí will try the tackle and- MISS! VA'ATÍ MISSES! Attention a big chance has opened up for the hosts! Rivas And Lisquerva must act! And- DROP, KICK! SCORE! Overthinkers has scored a drop goal, thanks to David Nauta!"
 
33 Minutes in... (10-0)
The pressure from the locals continued on to the 33rd, when the first try of the game was scored, following a maul, Alan Cord took possession for the locals, making a good pass past Rinaco Zicha, to Bonnie Marculus, confusing the ryxtylopian defense which was concentrated parallel to Marculus on the other side of the pitch, opening gaps, which Marculus took advantage of, as Rivas was unable to do anything Marculus scoring the try.
Following this Hank Moor would take the conversion kick, scoring and putting the locals 10 up on the score.
"Annnd... Possession for Cord! Cord, Cord, Kick good kick to Marculus! Maybe they'll try passing to the other side, no wait- GAP GAP! WATCH OUT, ITS MARCULUS! Marculus, Marculus, Marculus, Rivasssss- Isn't in position- Marculuuuuuuuuus- Score, Score! Overthinkers lands the try!"
"It will be Hank Moor, for the conversion, if they land this they'll be 10 up, attention ladies and gentlemen... Moor, Moor, Moooooooooooooooooooor- Score! Overthinkers lands the conversion!"
 
37 Minutes in... (10-3)
Not all would be lost for Ryxtylopia yet as before the first half ended the took a jab at Overthinkers following one of many possession changes during the match, with Ferrán Lisquerva regaining possession and making a dash forward through a gap left on the Overthinkers' defense, before stopping after Ty Rex cut his path off; with little options, Lisquerva kicked the ball for a drop goal, landing it and scoring Ryxtylopia a badly needed 3 points.
"Overthinkers winning in the first half ladies and gentlemen! But watch out, its Lisquerva through the left, he needs to look for a pass! Attention, Lisquerva, he's cut off by Rex! He needs to pass Lisquerva, KICK, LISQUERVAAAA- SCORE! Lisquerva has scored, Ryxtylopia gains 3, match remains 10-3!"
 
HALF TIME (10-3)
Both sides end the first half tired, as the referee starts the half time break, Tivarra's team going in with the obvious disadvantage, as the local's attack had pressured his defense enough to stop them from going on the attack.
"Annnd half time! Everybody- Overthinkers winning the match 10-3! We'll be back soon after the half time break here on TVNC, and we'll see if the locals can amplify their advantage or if Tivarra's side gets their baggage in order."
 
47 Minutes in... (10-3)
The game continued with a good chance for Overthinkers in the 47th, following a forward deflection by Huilchica that ended in a scrum, this time Lee Julius leading a good attack, before leading the pass to Cory Villa the locals continuing to lead a dangerous attack, only stopped by a great tackle by Ernysto Rivas near the line, saving the Pirates from the try, and preparing a counter attack that would stop at the midfield.
"Scrum, scrum, scrum, scrum. Julius! Julius for Overthinkers! They're keeping the pressure, now to Villa, Villa, Villa is through! This could end in a try... Villaaaaaaa- Tackle! Riiiiiivas! Saves the team yet again! Ryxtylopia loosing against the hosts 10-3!"
 
51 Minutes in... (17-3)
A poor performance by Mirta Palmiras at the midfield let to the loss of possession for the pirates which gave Overthinkers a perfect chance to strike considering the disposition of the ryxtylopian players, a chance they took well, with Bryan Harding retaking the ball and making it through the first ryxtylopian line, with Quista Farris failing a tackle allowing Bryan a gap to pass to Nauta, who then approached the line in front of the goal, passing a badly-positioned Rivas and scoring.
Jena Cantor took the conversion kick, scoring it and amplifying the lead.
"Palmiras, tackle! Ball to Bryan! Its Bryan! Bryan, Bryan, through the gap! The defense is still struggling with the pressure, attention- Farris- FAIL! She's missed the tackle! Bryan to Nauta! Nauta she's through, Its up to Rivas! Annnd... SCORE! Overthinkers scores a try from David Nauta in front of the goal!"
 
56 Minutes in... (17-6)
Ryxtylopia would continue struggling with the constant pressure from Overthinkers, as their team was having an easier time with possession retention than other agressive teams, however the ryxtylopian's would again get some points back, from a kick by Marco Va'atí to Guivina Divarra ending on a parellel line towards the local's goal, with defenders already charging at her to regain possession, she took the risk, attempting a drop goal which she scored.
"Alright, its Va'atí on the flank- Kick, its for Divarra! Past the midfield, Andrew Hall could try the tackle, Divarra doesn't have a lot of help here, she'll have to kick! Attention- Divarraaaaaaaaaa! SCORE! Divarra scores a drop goal, Ryxtylopia takes some back, its now 17-6!"
 
66 Minutes in... (24-6)
The game still did not end however. As in the 66th minute Armando Mataña committed a knock on, with the scrum being awarded to Overthinkers', as their team took full advantage of it, winning possession out of the scrum and taking advantage of the disposition of the ryxtylopian team for Carson West to lead a pass towards Hank Moor, who avoided Rivas and scored the 3rd try for Overthinkers.
Marculus took the conversion, scoring it.
"Matañaaaaaaa- That looks like a bad deflection, yes. SCRUM FOR OVERTHINKERS! Attention everybody... ...Right, annd- Carson with possession! Attention, Carson to Moor, Moor, Moor Rivas is the only one that can stop this annnd- he doesn't! Overthinkers Scores!"
 
69 Minutes in... (27-6)
During the 69th minute, following a maul, Theresa Argent achieved possession for the hosts, taking the ball into the ryxtylopian side of the pitch, but while looking for a pass Patochá fouled them by pulling on their arm, almost getting sent off, and handing a penalty to the hosts, which Micheal Anul converted, bringing up the score to 27-6 favoring the hosts.
"Theresa, Patochá, and ouch! That looked painful! Foul by patochá, this will result... yeah confirmed. Penalty for Overthinkers! Following the foul from Patochá, Overthinkers has been awarded a penalty!"
"We'll have Micheal Anul to kick this one, attention everybody... Anuuuul. Score! Score! Overthinkers has scored the penalty, the game is now 27-6"
 
75 Minutes in... (27-9)
Despite the loss, it wasn't quite over for Tivarra's side yet, as with the Overthinkers' attack loosing steam, the Pirates had one last chance to take points back in the 75th, this time Marco Xilta lead throuh the flank. Pulling a 90º turn right in front of A.J. Jackson, and making it near the goalpost being perpendicular to it, with this Xilta took the opportunity to score a drop goal, sending the ball curving past the left post and into the goal, gaining another 3 points for the pirates in the dying minutes of the match.
"5 minutes to go! Attention we got Marco Xilta with possession! Xilta is in Xilta is through, Running through the flank! Jacksooooon- What a turn! Xilta can get some points! Xiltaaaaaaaaa- SCORE! Xilta scores the drop goal! Its now 27-9!"
 
FULL TIME (27-9)
That last jab at the goal would mark the end of the match, with the crowd cheering, as Overthinkers took the pass to the finals, with Tivarra's team going back into the changing rooms.
"Annnnnnnnd FULL TIME! Ladies and Gentlemen! Ryxtylopia is out! Tivarra's team fought but today wasn't their day and they fall to the hosts! Overthinkers will advance to the finals! This is not the end for Tivarra's side, they still have a shot at the 3rd place medal!"
 
"The hosts will be advancing, we'll get the results of the Teralyon vs Zoran match soon, but this will mark the end of today's match, Tivarra will have to wait another year to have a shot at the final, but the team has made it far once again and they'll soon be competing for 3rd place."
"But this will be the end for today's transmission, we thank the hosts: Overthinkers for allowing us to set it up, and for hosting this RWC in the first place, ive been Pablo Virriscayda, rugby comentator for TVNC, and i will hopefully see you ladies and gentlemen for THE BRONZE MEDAL MATCH! Have a nice day."
 
The transmission ends.

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

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