Giovanniland

Tsalapaní, Ryxtylopia — Giovanniland has finished its group stage in the 6th Rugby World Cup in second place, with two victories and one defeat. The team started strong in the match against Zogradia, with Demetro Ferenni scoring two tries in quick succession, one of which was converted by Paldena Lartidiano, and then the young fly-half Tarquino Albavetta added five more points, leading to a score of 17-0 at half-time. Although the Zogradian team managed to score a lone try and conversion in the second half, Giovanniland reaffirmed its strength when Samanta Alba Nima racked up another seven points for the Esquadra Nationale, and the game finished 24-7. In the second game, although Giovanniland started strong when Samanta scored a try in the fifth minute, Overthinkers quickly responded with two tries by Jena Cantor and Alan Cord, followed by conversions, and the first half ended with a 14-5 score for our opponents. They further increased their lead by another seven points in the early second half, and although Giovanniland began to stage a comeback with Petro Numeriani scoring a try and Demetro converting a penalty, it was not enough to draw the game, and Giovanniland lost 13-26. Last but not least, our team bounced back with a 16-10 victory against Jerimiahia! Their team was the first to score, when Mark Cleats gave his team 3 points via a penalty following a foul, but Giovanniland soon scored two tries, one by Demetro and one by captain Marko Telliano Ulpio. Near the start of the second half, Jerimiahian player Michels Vick drew the game 10-10 after a try and conversion, but the Esquadra Nationale was determined to regain the lead, and so it happened via a beautiful drop goal and a penalty, both by Kornelio Lodagi! Our team now meets fellow Auran neighbors Saint Mark in the round of 16, and looks forward to a victory so we can equal last World Cup's performance. Abrentopole, Giovanniland — In recent times, a particular style of fusion cuisine has regained popularity all over Giovanniland, namely the Gyomeshi (ギョ飯). This Minsunese word comes from the roots Gyo, the first syllable in their transcription of the name Giovanniland, and meshi, meaning 'meal'. Although Giovanniland and Minsu have had close relations for centuries, the idea of mashing together traditional elements of each national cuisine is more recent. It began within Minsu in the last century and soon spread to Giovanniland, but it wasn't until now that it experienced a great revival. A common concept in this cuisine, pictured to the left, is to mix the traditional Abrentan pasta from Giovanniland with Minsunese fish and nori seaweed. Another example of dish involving pasta is specifically given the name Aburento (アブレント), in homage of the region in Giovanniland where pasta recipes first arose. The Aburento (pictured on the right) features soft-cooked spaghetti, tomato ketchup, onion, button mushrooms, green peppers, sausage, bacon and optionally Tabasco sauce. Somewhat more controversial has been the fusion between two different signature dishes from Giovanniland and Minsu, respectively the pizza and sushi. Dubbed 'pizzushi' or 'sushizza', this meal has divided opinions between those who love it and those who hate it. "I doubt I would ever utter those words, but I think I have finally found something worse than pineapple pizza from Overthinkers!", remarked self-styled 'food traditionalist' Federigo Sabellio-Lurtoni. On the other hand, pizzamaker Martina Opiterni has defended the creation, exalting the integration of two different cultures and also stating that it has boosted her pizzeria's popularity.

1425 Census - Ethnic Groups (Part 1) Every five years the National Census of Giovanniland takes place, recording a wide array of specific indices for each of the 632 Giovannilandian municipalities and 11 regions. They include demographic aspects like age, sex, and ethnic group; socioeconomic aspects like education, income, and employment; housing aspects like home value and facilities, and much more. Giovannese The Giovannese ethnic group has a majority in every national subdivision. Among regions, the percentage ranges from 89.35% in the Andolian region of Terra Violeta, to 96.14% in the Auran region of Spandorto. As for municipalities, the lowest proportions are around 60%, found in rural parts of Terra Violeta and neighboring Kordelleria, whereas the highest near 100%, mostly in small Auran towns and other rural municipalities. Overall the Giovannese number 27,028,621, with 18,949,522 in Auran Giovanniland and 8,079,099 in Andolian Giovanniland. Immigrants The national census defines the Immigrant category as any ethnicity that isn't Giovannese or Native Andolian. They are most prominent in Prinvalli (9.87%), Abrenostro (8.04%) and Giovannia Magna (7.35%), the three richest regions in terms of per capita income. In fact, the most multiethnic cities in Giovanniland are in these regions, such as Porto Violeto in Prinvalli (16.77% immigrants) and Portovini in Abrenostro (16.21% immigrants). There is a total of 1,923,835 immigrants living in Giovanniland: 1,484,819 in Aura and 439,016 in Andolia. Glenpavian & Minsunese Two non-native ethnicities have special categories, namely those coming from Blue Bubble and Minsu, Giovanniland's neighbors within Lavender Island—their total numbers in Giovanniland are respectively 88,841 and 111,097. Some of them have lived here for centuries, with settlements dating back to the early Giovannian Empire, whereas others have arrived recently, such as Glenpavians fleeing military rule in their homeland. Most reside in the regions bordering their native countries, specifically Verdiante and Lavandula for the Glenpavians, and Abrenostro for the Minsunese. In the next section you will find maps and statistics pertaining to the four main groups of Native Andolian ethnicities in Giovanniland: the Bereme, Ardala, Ulerge and Emune.

1425 Giovannilandian Chess Championship Concludes! The official logo of the 1425 Giovannilandian Chess Championship. Sonserino, Giovanniland — The 1425 Giovannilandian Chess Championship happened throughout September 1425 and has now come to an end with the victory of Gustavo Takeda over Karlo Neurino-Sousa in the final match! It featured forty participants from different regions of Giovanniland, playing in a group stage where the top two from each group advanced to the knockout stage and then decided the winner. The event was visited by notable political figures, including Prime Minister Elisa Anario-Silva and His Majesty King Giovanni VI. Every year, regional competitions determine the participants of each championship. Places are allocated to each region in proportion to their population, and these competitions are often a place for rising stars in national chess to be known for a wider audience, while established players usually confirm their qualification quickly. Thirty-nine players arrived into the national competition out of this process, joined by the defending champion Raffella Quadrigaro, who won back-to-back in the 1423 and 1424 editions. Group A P W D L Group B P W D L GM Iuliana Flaviano-Emina 3 3 0 1 GM Dezeno Purparboni 3.5 3 1 0 GM Raffella Quadrigaro 3 3 0 1 CM Tommasio Kalgiani 2 2 0 2 IM Gratia Frundoni Lukio 2 1 2 1 GM Kiro Tarquinio 2 1 2 1 IM Aurelio Vindemia Tassi 1 0 2 2 IM Augusto Rossiano-Gellio 1.5 1 1 2 Afrania Markelliani 1 0 2 2 Massimiano Faustino 1 1 0 3 Group C P W D L Group D P W D L GM Karlo Neurino-Sousa 3.5 3 1 0 GM Lavinia Pasquale-Arbone 3.5 3 1 0 GM Guillermo Urido-Amorino 3 2 2 0 IM Amanda Gilvano Trinelli 3.5 3 1 0 GM Gallio Kervario Hortense 2.5 2 1 1 IM Margerito de Alboquerko 2 2 0 2 Madalena Amento-Oltoveno 1 1 0 3 GM Giorgia Superbo-Legia 1 1 0 3 IM Ioseppa Oselliano 0 0 0 4 CM Debora Vastaqua 0 0 0 4 Group E P W D L Group F P W D L GM Vittore Nima-Liamo 4 4 0 0 GM Sergio Amorante-Aquilano 3 2 2 0 IM Isidoro Andago Santi 2.5 2 1 1 GM Zodeno Abrungula 2.5 2 1 1 GM Severo Spindola Giordano 2 2 0 2 CM Daniella Gigero 2 1 2 1 CM Eustakia Erdene 1 0 2 2 CM Vittore Ugeno Kelestino 1.5 1 1 2 Zerina Suevio-Medottani 0.5 0 1 3 IM Raimondo Quavilla-Abutio 1 1 0 3 Group G P W D L Group H P W D L GM Gustavo Takeda 3.5 3 1 0 GM Lavanda Rosetta-Lira 4 4 0 0 IM Talle Vespasiano 3 2 2 0 GM Zutrina Palbario 2.5 2 1 1 GM Antonio Ambrosio Borba 1.5 1 1 2 CM Mario Laqui 2.5 2 1 1 CM Serena Agrikola 1.5 0 3 1 IM Augustino Neuriani 1 0 0 3 CM Otto Velite-Peskennio 0.5 0 1 3 Amando Nevio-Karpo 0 0 0 4 The group stage was full of interesting action, ranging from Group C where multiple-time champion Karlo Neurino-Sousa finished with a half-point lead over recent young champion Guillermo Urido-Amorino, to Group A where defending champion Raffella Quadrigaro had the same points as Iuliana Flaviano-Emina and finished below because the former lost in the head-to-head tiebreaker. Groups A, C, F and H had two Grandmasters qualify from each, whereas the other four groups all had one Grandmaster leading, and either an International or Candidate Master in second. These included two names that hadn't ever qualified before to the knockout phase, namely Tommaso Kalgiani and Talle Vespasiano. In the upper part of the bracket, International Master Talle Vespasiano surprised everyone by winning against two established grandmasters, namely Dezeno Purparboni and then Zutrina Palbario. He was, however, soundly defeated in the semifinals by Karlo Neurino-Sousa, who had defeated Giorgia Superbo-Legia and Isidoro Andago Santi previously. Credit must also be given to Isidoro though, as he arrived into the quarterfinals for the second time ever (and the first since rising from Candidate Master to International Master), and this time by defeating 1420 champion Lavinia Pasquale-Arbone. The lower part of the bracket had matches just as interesting as the upper part. Gustavo Takeda was the finalist from here, and he went past through notable opponents such as defending champion Raffella Quadrigaro in the quarterfinals, as well as 1423 runner-up Vittore Nima-Liamo in the semifinals! The matches between Gustavo and Vittore seem to have become a staple of the tournament in recent times, seeing as they happened in the knockout stage in 1422, 1423 and 1425—and at last, Gustavo has had his revenge from the previous two times. Other notable competitors in this part of the bracket were Sergio Amorante-Aquilano and Guillermo Urido-Amorino, whose round of 16 duel was won by the latter, before Guillermo fell to Vittore afterwards. The bronze match then took place between Talle Vespasiano and Vittore Nima-Liamo, and was won by the latter! This matches carries a strong symbolic meaning, seeing as both are younger chess players representing the future of Giovannilandian chess. Last but not least, the final match featured Gustavo Takeda and Karlo Neurino-Sousa! It was a very close dispute that Gustavo won after tiebreaks, returning to winning a championship after six years! Gustavo has now won three times, namely 1416, 1419 and 1425. Meanwhile, Karlo seems to be continuing a title drought, since he last acquired a title in 1418, although his experience and multiple titles in decades prior must nevertheless be acknowledged.

Appendix: Place Names (Part 1) As an additional resource to our travel guide about all regions of Giovanniland, we have collected information about many of the place names that appear in this guide, including their pronunciation and etymology. Although some may simply skip this part of the guide, others could find it quite interesting, especially as place names often have something to tell about the place's very origins and history. Region of Giovannia Magna [gjo'van.nja 'mag.na] - meaning 'Greater Giovannia' since it encompasses the national capital and surrounding lands. Capital city of Giovannia [gjo'van.nja] - a city founded in the 9th century during the reign of empress Tenzina (853-879) and afterwards made capital by emperor Kesare (879-888), it honors the nation's founding father, Triumvir Giovanni of the Abrentan Republic, who started the process to unify the Abrentan and Lavandulan civilizations into our modern-day nation. Cities of Vinikiano [vi.ni'kja.no] and Raffellia [raf'fɛl.lja] - these two industrial-era cities, which started out as satellite cities of the capital and nowadays have over 200,000 inhabitants, are named after brothers Vinikio and Raffello de Abreo-Florino, prime ministers between 1225-1232 and 1238-1248 respectively. City of Iuliopole [ju.li'ɔ.po.le] - continuing the trend that many cities around the capital are named after important people, this city was named after Emperor Iulio I, the first to rule over an unified Giovanniland, from 555 to 584. Region of Lavandula [la'van.du.la] - the homeland of the historical Lavandulan people, so named due to the rainforest lavender that is prominent in northern Giovanniland. This plant was also the symbol of the imperial lineage that founded the ancient Lavandulan Empire, which contributed to its adoption as an ethnonym. Capital city of Urido ['u.ri.do] - from Lavandulan དབུར་ཡིད (wur-yid) of debated meaning, but often explained as referring to the Lavandulan civilization's very beginnings around the area of this city, which was one of the first settlements founded by them. City of Quorivo [kwo'ri.vo] - translated from Lavandulan ཀླུང་ཆེན (lung-chen), which means 'great river' and refers to the Purpuro River that crosses the city. City of Dazano [da'za.no] - from Lavandulan འདབ་བཟང (dab-zang) meaning 'place of macaws'. City of Osellio [o'sɛl.ljo] - from Lavandulan འོད་གསལ་ཡུལ (ösel-yul) meaning 'city of radiance'. Region of Abrenostro [a.bre'nos.tro] - derives from the earlier name Abrento Austro, the imperial-era division referring to the fact these were the southernmost areas settled by the Abrentan civilization. Capital city of Abrentopole [a.bren'tɔ.po.le] - the Abrentans founded this new capital city, meaning 'City of the Abrentans', in their southwards expansion to replace their first capital Amorante. City of Karlopole [kar'lɔ.po.le] - this frontier city near the Minsunese border named after Emperor Karlo I, who reigned from 1132 to 1166 and helped foster friendship between Giovanniland and the newly-independent nations of Blue Bubble and Minsu. City of Anaro [a'na.ro] - possibly means 'place of ducks', which are named ana or anade in Giovannese, although other hypotheses have been made. City of Portovini [por.to'vi.ni] - its name meaning 'wine port' alludes to the widespread viticulture in the peninsula that the city is located in, and to the city's historical significance as one of Giovanniland's former main ports. Region of Prinvalli [prin'val.li] - derives from the earlier name Primi Valli, so named since this region full of valleys was where the Abrentans first settled in Lavender Island after arriving from southern Saint Mark. Capital city of Porto Violeto ['por.to vjo'le.to] - the second-largest city of Giovanniland was founded alongside a small harbor, where the Violet Port from which the city takes its name was founded. A common explanation refers to the abundant violet flowers around the area. City of Amorante [a.mo'ran.te] - means 'mouth of the Amora River'. City of Salvoregno [sal.vo'reg.no] - its name 'safe realm' refers to the city's foundation after a turbulent period for the Abrentans. City of Unitadia [u.ni'ta.dja] - this imperial-era city was named after the unification of the Abrentan and Lavandulan civilizations. Region of Verdiante [ver'djan.te] - meaning 'green region', it refers to the Abrentan Forest in western Auran Giovanniland. Capital city of Annavilla [an.na'vil.la] - named after Empress Anna I, who reigned from 755 to 792 and began the Golden Age of Giovanniland. City of Porelia [po'rɛ.lja] - formerly called Plorelia during the medieval era. Its name derives from the ubiquitous açaí fruit in the region, which is called ploria in Giovannese, and means 'crying fruit'. City of Augusterra [au.gus'tɛr.ra] - named after Emperor Augusto, who reigned from 584 to 621, the son of Iulio I of Abrento and Nima VII of Lavandula. City of Lastrilla [las'tril.la] - a pre-Abrentan toponym of uncertain meaning. Region of Spandorto [span'dor.to] - meaning 'expansion to the east', it refers to the Abrentan exploration of this area relatively late in their medieval history. Capital city of Hendia ['hen.dja] - its name derives from a kind of snake common in the area, and their name in turn comes from the verb hendere which means to hold forcefully. City of Tommasio [tom'ma.sjo] - named after Emperor Tommaso II who reigned from 999 to 1039, one of the longest-reigning in Giovannilandian history. City of Uprino [u'pri.no] - its name comes from the Uprino River, of uncertain meaning. City of Oddolino [od.do'li.no] - formerly called Oppidolino during the medieval era, from oppido (modern-day oddo) meaning town and a diminutive suffix.

Giovannilandian National Rugby Team Esquadra Nationale Giovanniterrana de Ovalsfera Style mod: +2 Stadium: Stadio Purpuro, Giovannia Manager: Vittore Massimiani Coach: Galzena Vatinio-Messalla After the good showing at the previous edition of the RWC, Vittore and Galzena decided to retain much of the existing roster, with little change. Captained by Marko Telliano Ulpio once more, the Esquadra Nationale has high expectations for their participation this year. Previous Appearances: Rugby Union 3rd Place - 1st World Cup Quarter Finals - 5th World Cup Round of 16 - 4th World Cup Group Stage - 2nd and 3rd World Cups Rugby Sevens 3rd Place - 1st and 2nd Summer Esferiads Main Players: Name Age Number Position Home City Kornelio Lodagi 27 1 Loosehead Prop Andoliavilla Samanta Alba Nima 24 2 Hooker Abrentopole Tenzina Liogalla 26 3 Tighthead Prop Dazano Demetro Ferenni 25 4 Lock 1 Vinikiano Stella Emilio-Dolkari 30 5 Lock 2 Urido Paldena Lartidiano 23 6 Backside Flanker Urido Nikolo Hortense-Zerdano 22 7 Openside Flanker Andoliavilla Katia Ugeno-Gimussa 25 8 Number 8 Zodenni Petro Numeriani 24 9 Scrum-half Annavilla Tarquino Albavetta 20 10 Fly-half Karlopole Marko Telliano Ulpio (C) 26 11 Left Wing Porto Violeto Gepello Flamma-Fortunato 23 12 Inside Centre Nova Annavilla Zodeno Lorentio-Hiberni 21 13 Outside Centre Giovannia Benditta Kastrigio 26 14 Right Wing Osellio Renato Velita-Amanda 25 15 Full-back Nautale Backup Players: Name Age Number Position Home City Livio Kommodo 23 16 Loosehead Prop Isula Magna Augusta Silvia Artena 27 17 Hooker Annavilla Terentia Antone-Gilvo 26 18 Tighthead Prop Nenofre Deodora Montana 25 19 Lock 1 Porelia Tommaso Kandido Silva 23 20 Lock 2 Flaviopole Andago Emilio-Amore 21 21 Backside Flanker Giovannia Tiberio Giovannini 19 22 Openside Flanker Giovannia Desnia Ampello-Luntogio 29 23 Number 8 Ioseppole Kassiana de Luna 27 24 Scrum-half Abrentopole Paldeno Quintiliani 25 25 Scrum-half Dazano Valentina Anario-Karpo 27 26 Fly-half Giovannia Mariana Empano 23 27 Left Wing Portovini Nima Tiberio-Pessino 27 28 Inside Centre Baiabella Horatio Gabalo 29 29 Outside Centre Andoliavilla Eudokia Amedei 22 30 Right Wing Osellio Lukio Tenzino Vittori 27 31 Full-back Porto Violeto Valeria Albone-Gallio 24 32 Full-back Urbevittori Jerseys: If my opponent RPs first, they may... Choose my try scorers: Yes Choose my kicker: Yes RP injuries: No Godmod scoring events: No Godmod injuries: No Godmod other events: No

Giovanniland signs up!

Nation name: Giovanniland Nation trigram: GIO Players: 1. Gepello Gallonia 2. Iontana Ofeliani 3. Amadeo Vetuleno-Gargonio

Giovanniland signs up! withdrawn, due to RL reasons

Economy of Giovanniland Giovanniland has an advanced mixed economy with a GDP totalling $1,406,647,221,920 and ranked as the fourth largest in Esferos. Due to the Giovannilandian policies of social democracy and welfare state, 48.2% of the national income goes to government spending. The national economy is highly diversified, featuring services as 71% of the economic output, while industries account for 27%, and the remaining 2% is generated by primary activities, all backed by the national currency called Abrio (𝒜), whose conversion rate is 1 international dollar for each 1.6 Abrios. The labor force is defined as all the population between 18 and 70 years old, and estimated to be 18,734,722 according to the latest national census, with an unemployment index of only 2% due to extensive welfare and social policies. Primary and secondary sectors The logos of Avvento and Ekoprodutti. Avvento is a primary sector company focusing on wind power, while Ekoprodutti is a secondary sector company that manufactures environmentally friendly products. For much of its history, Giovanniland's economy relied on tropical agricultural and manufacturing goods. Both the Abrentan and Lavandulan civilizations regarded trade as very important for their national development, and it was this relation that allowed both cultures to grow closer and form the Giovannian Empire, which brought an economic revolution to Lavender Island. During the imperial era, a period of prosperity came to the island due to the diverse goods brought in by the trading posts and routes established around Esferos, and the agricultural and mining riches earned from the Andolian colonies. The decline of the Giovannian Empire forced the nation to adapt to a new era, and during the late 12th and early 13th centuries, the Industrial Revolution was brought from Saint Mark and was fully complete throughout the country by 1260. Continued economic growth has happened most often since then, allowing for the nation's development in other spheres such as society and infrastructure. Despite the decrease in relative importance for external trade after the Industrial Revolution, agriculture and mining still provide a backbone for the nation's industries and services. Agriculture is currently estimated to contribute around 1% of GDP, generating a variety of tropical crops such as bananas, coconuts, papayas, cassava, cocoa, coffee, rice, sweet potato, and tea. Mining, another major component of the Giovannilandian primary sector, accounts for 0.5% of the national GDP and features an increasing search for rare-earth elements due to their uses in advanced technology, although the sector faces environmental regulations due to the green policies of the notable Partito Verde. Meanwhile, the secondary sector is represented by factories and industries such as automobiles, computers and other electronics, food processing, and retail. These industry types are often concentrated in specific regions of the country, for example the Abrenostro region having strong influence in Giovannese cuisine and thus being the center of the national food processing industry. The mountainous regions such as Kordelleria are known for their retail sector, especially due to the low temperatures colder than the national average, while automobiles are often produced in the regions of Giovannia Magna and Altana. Finally, the technology industry is present throughout the country, especially in the capital and the coastal regions. Amorante and Flaviopole, in the regions of Prinvalli and Lido Flavi respectively, are often known as the head cities of this sector. They have the nearby ports of Porto Violeto and Andoliavilla, allowing for Giovannilandian high-tech and nanotechnology products to not only be exported and generate high revenue, but also be transported to the other regions of Giovanniland. Services The logos of Tullerigno and Emeria Lavanda, two service sector companies mentioned below. The tertiary sector is the driving workforce behind the national economy. Technology services account for over 10% of the GDP and are divided into diverse areas such as telecommunications, e-commerce, software development, social media, gaming, data processing, artificial intelligence and much more. Several Giovannilandian companies from this sector have in the last few decades become present in the lives of nearly all Giovannilandians and also a decent international audience, for example Tullerigno through its widely used Osello operating system and Essio browser & search engine; and more recently the Konsortio Intellegentie's development of the generative chatbot Violeta and text-to-image model VisioArti. This subdivision of the tertiary sector is most present in the region of Giovannia Magna, with several enterprises' headquarters in cities next to the capital such as Vinikiano, Raffellia and Iuliopole. Nearly all of Giovanniland's population has access to the internet, and most households have electronics ranging from computers, televisions and mobile phones to advanced Internet of Things devices. The finance and trade sector is also notable and has its roots in the Giovannian Empire, since successive emperors sought to reach lands previously unknown to the Giovannese, establishing trading posts in the five continents including Nur, with which the Empire notably pioneered a surge in trade routes across the Viatic. Many institutions of merchants and moneylenders were founded in important ports like Urido and Porto Violeto during the imperial golden age in the 9th and 10th centuries AF, and developed into modern-day banks such as the famous Emeria Lavanda (Lavender Bank). Presently 7% of the GDP comes from this area, and Giovannilandian banks have earned a reputation of having a very secure and technological system, alongside low taxes for money deposits. Last but not teast, the other major source of services income is tourism. Environmentally friendly tourism is prominent in the northern Lavandulan rainforests and the two branches of the Great Lavender Range in Giovaura, as well as the mountainous valleys of the Irto River and the vast southern savannas in Giovandolia, with several designated national parks and natural reserves for this purpose. Historical tourism offers a wide range of attractions, ranging from ancient ruins of the Lavandulan Empire to the medieval Abrentan castles and the vast diversity of Giovannian Empire architecture, complemented by museums like the National Museums of Giovannia and Andoliavilla. Cultural tourism is also very lively and finds its home in the region of Abrenosto, whose capital Abrentopole regularly hosts several culinary events, since world-famous Giovannese meals like pizza and seafood pasta come from this region, as well as art exhibitions and festivals. Another destination in the region is the Abrentan Cape, known for the vineyards and wine production near the city of Portovini, and the beach resorts visited by many international tourists along the cape's coastline. Transport Lavionda, one of the main airlines of Giovanniland. In the topic of transport, Giovanniland has a strong and well connected network of railroads, highways, waterways, harbors, airports, and more. The highway (autostrada) system is divided into national roads, which receive an abbreviation with the two-letter code GL followed by a number, and regional roads, whose abbreviations are similar but feature the two-letter code of the region instead. In the year of 1313 a very important project in the history of Giovannilandian highways was completed, with north-south highways in both the Auran and Andolian territories. The following decades saw the connection of all urban municipalities to this new system, and at last smaller settlements in rural municipalities. Meanwhile, the railway system is older and dates back to the middle to late imperial period, where it took on the role of transporting vast amounts of agricultural, mining and manufacturing goods. These were originally wooden rails, while newer innovations such as metal rails, steam and now electric power were introduced during or after the Industrial Revolution. The busiest port city in Giovanniland is Porto Violeto, a historic port that has been in existence for nearly two thousand years. Porto Violeto's harbor was greatly expanded during the imperial golden era, since it hosted a majority of the trade between the mainland and the overseas trading posts established by the Giovannian Empire, becoming the most prosperous city in all of the empire. In recent times, Porto Violeto has maintained its significance as the second largest city in Giovanniland and head of a cosmopolitan metropolis, while its port has evolved into a major container terminal for both the Darkesian Sea and the wider world. Meanwhile, other significant port cities include Urido in the north and Andoliavilla in the south. Furthermore, the country is also well-adapted for aerial transport—the five busiest Giovannilandian airports are the Emperor Giovanni the Great International Airport in Giovannia (22 million passengers per year), the Abreo-Florino International Airport in Porto Violeto (15m), the Flavio International Airport in Andoliavilla (10m), the Respublika International Airport in Abrentopole (7m), and the Lavandula International Airport in Urido (5m).

A Look into the Giovannilandian Energy Scene by Amelia Ottaviani Hydropower is the largest contributor, although there are environmental concerns about it despite the renewable character of the energy produced. To discuss the energy scene of Giovanniland, one must first know about the politics of the last century. This was the time when the Partito Verde (Green Party) rose to power, represented in the premiership for the first time by Anna Tansegano in 1328. The party continued relevant over the following decades, as the nation came to take a pivotal role in environmental protection internationally, and has also contributed recent prime ministers such as Vikente Dolkari and Amore Gile Abrenti. Giovanniland transitioned away from fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas during the 14th century, and hydropower became the main energy source in the mid-century. The rivers flowing in the mountainous lands of Giovandolia were perfect for energy generation, while in Giovaura, despite the less mountainous topography, frequent rainfall and the construction of powerful dams made this energy transition possible. As Giovanniland and Esferos further saw the need to combat the damage against the environment, more renewable energy alternatives started to rise, most notably solar and wind powers, as well as biomass. Nowadays, although hydropower is still the leading contributor to energy generation in Giovanniland, the Labour-led government in coalition with the Greens also recognizes its disadvantages such as loss of arable land, population displacement, and disruption of ecosystems, and the policies to phase it out as the main contributor are succeeding. Their arguments are valid, especially due to environmental damage caused by the construction of dams and reservoirs, including the displacement of people and animals, habitat destruction, and the alteration of river ecosystems. However, the advantages should also be considered, such as the cost-effectiveness after facilities are built, and functioning around the clock. Currently, the figures stand at 31% hydropower, 30% solar power, 26% wind power, 10% biomass and other renewables, and 3% non-renewable for total energy generation. Solar power is nearly tied with hydropower for energy share, and it's widely used in houses as well as other buildings across Giovanniland's cities. One important aspect to consider is the conversion efficiency, a statistic in which hydropower has the other two squarely beat at the moment. Hydropower facilities can have an efficiency of up to 90%, with wind power averaging a respectable 40 to 50% and solar power trailing at around 15 to 20%. Although wind and solar power deal less damage to the environment, solar panels often take a large amount of space (though domestic use doesn't have this issue), and wind turbines can disturb wildlife. Despite these shortcomings, it would be inappropriate not to mention the current technological progress spent to make wind and solar power more prevalent in Giovanniland. The nation has large amounts of coastline in the Darkesian Sea, both in the Auran and Andolian sides, therefore the government has been partnering with various private enterprises investing in offshore wind farms due to the fact wind speed is often higher at the sea. For solar power, Giovannilandian scientists have teamed up with foreign ones in research to combine multiple materials that each have the capability of absorbing certain parts of the solar spectrum, technologies that are now available in the market. Furthermore, the public engagement with government policies is also a very important point. Net metering has become commonplace in Giovanniland, allowing for customers who install renewable sources such as solar panels at home to send any excess electricity generated back to the grid and receive a credit on their electricity bill. A recent bill seeks to encourage further adoption of solar power in particular by subsidizing panels, recognizing that they often still have fairly high costs. Overall, the environmental policies of the last eight decades have ensured Giovanniland's status a leading nation in terms of renewable energy, and the current efforts promise to continue the path of good environmental protection in both Giovanniland and Esferos at-large, as successive governments have also made green politics an important part of the nation's diplomatic strategy. Wind power is the third largest contributor, with offshore wind farms leading its increase.

< Previous: The Late Empire Period 13th-century Giovanniland Giovanniland became a semi-constitutional monarchy in 15th June 1225, after which Anna II ruled as Queen. The Senato was now elected by popular vote under the new system, but the monarch retained the power to appoint any senator as prime minister, according to their best judgment of who might form the best cabinet. Anna II chose Vinikio de Abreo-Florino as the first Prime Minister of Giovanniland, an entrepreneur active in the rising industrialization happening in various major cities. The Queen directed him to place Giovanniland on the path of becoming fully industrialized, reworked various government institutions, and codified the basic rules of the election process, such as senators being elected by region and having a five-year term. The major political parties of the century were at first the right-wing Partito Konservatore (Conservative Party) and the centrist Partito Librale (Liberal Party), as well as the left-wing Partito Demokrata (Democratic Party) later on. The two first dominated politics during this period, and even though they had different ideas on key issues of the era, the monarch used their power to ensure continuity between national policies so that the country could develop. During the reign of Queen Abrelia II, the liberal brothers Vinikio and Raffello de Abreo-Florino contributed the most to national industrialization, while the conservative Zutrina Amafinia focused on expanding foreign relations and adapting Giovanniland to a new era in the international stage. The Queen died during the third year of Tommaso's prime ministership and was succeeded by her son Filippo, who ruled for five decades and is remembered as a great monarch. During Filippo's reign, Giovanniland became fully industrialized, and many infrastructure projects were funded with the industrial profit, such as a grand railway network to facilitate commerce, with Giovannia, Porto Violeto and Andoliavilla as the main hubs. Cities were modernized, and soon started receiving electricity in the 1280s. Furthermore, an important external achievement from this time was the update of the Tri-Lavender Treaty into a stronger version, with more cooperation between the three nations. King Filippo's reign from 1241 to 1293 was overall a time of economic prosperity, rapid urbanization, infrastructure modernization, and last but not least technological, scientific, and cultural innovations.

< Previous: Beyond Lavender Island The Late Empire Period The administrative divisions of the Giovannian Empire, shown with their borders during the Empire’s peak in the late 10th century. 11th century: turmoil and initial independence movements Upon Tommaso II's death in 1039, his daughter Lavinia inherited the throne and soon faced some revolts, which she managed to end by easing some restrictions. Her decisions upset the more conservative members of the imperial court, which took their chance to strike after she died in 1053, and her son Silvio decided to reverse the policies soon after taking the throne. This angered the Glendulan people, starting their ambition of becoming an independent nation once more. Meanwhile, some Minsunese aristocrats had sent their children to pursue education abroad decades before, spurring the formation of the Gaikoku Society during Nima's reign with the goal of writing anti-Giovannian propaganda. Silvio's authoritarianism caused one of the society's members, called Fukito, to begin writing a book called the "Woes of the Masses" denouncing the Empire. This turmoil resulted in Silvio's assassination in 1062, after which his sister Zodena II inherited the throne. Zodena tried to restore peace, however the quality of life for the Empire's inhabitants was declining. Meanwhile, the imperial government banned the "Woes of the Masses" and other similar works, leading to the arrest of their authors, and subsequent trials where they were found guilty of treason and hanged. These events fueled Minsunese nationalist sentiments, culminating in a large protest in the capital Giovannia suppressed by the empress. After her death in 1073, her son Giovanni IV inherited the throne but died under uncertain circumstances in September 1074, sparking a succession dispute. Independence movements capitalized on the confusion, leading to unrest until Iulio III secured the throne in March 1075. Fhaengshia's monarchy returned from their centuries long exile, a mass movement of Glendulans to modern-day Blue Bubble led to the formation of the Glenpavian Group, Hisamatsu Jin gathered like-minded people to discuss independence for Minsu, and Khan Daichin II launched an Ardalan rebellion. This last insurgency threatened the Lido Flavi and Kordelleria colonies, nearly reaching Andoliavilla before the generals Aetio and Didio turned the tide and quelled the revolt in 1079. Besides overcoming the rebellion, the young Iulio III enacted policies that successfully reduced the economic downturn. However he only came to rule until 1084, when he was poisoned due to family intrigue and his brother Kassio took the throne. Kassio's stubborn actions raised the unrest to unforeseen levels, starting with the Colony of Fhaengshia's rebellion two years later with encouragement from their native monarchy. Imperial troops unsuccessfully tried to contain the rebellion, and it soon spread to the neighboring Colony of Doruna, where many Fhaengshians had migrated to. Furthermore, the Glendulan and Minsunese were also appalled by the fact many of them had died in combat during this and previous rebellions, adding another reason for their independence demands. Hisamatsu Jin met with the Glenpavian Group in 1089, and the following year saw both Blue Bubble and Minsu launch their rebellions, which the Giovannian army failed to contain. Kassio wanted to continue trying to defeat the independence movements, but by mid-1091 it became clear that the situation was no longer salvageable. A coup replaced Kassio with Petro I, who recognized the independence of Blue Bubble, Fhaengshia and Minsu, and also signed the Tri-Lavender Treaty with the two other Lavender Island nations in 1094, accepting them as equals and agreeing to pay reparations. During the later years of Petro's reign, border clashes with Minsu led to the formation of the modern-day border. 12th century: consolidation of modern-day Giovanniland and later independence movements The next empress Hadriana ruled from 1113 to 1132, and has a controversial legacy for enacting policies in favor of ethnic persecution, displacement and forced cultural assimilation in the remaining Andolian colonies, as she feared losing these lands for two main reasons. The first was that, although the indigenous population had decreased since the 8th century due to the wars of conquest and forced labor within the Empire, it was still a significant number that could also rise in new revolts like the previous Ardalan insurgency led by Khan Daichin II. The second is that the remaining areas included fertile farmlands and profitable mining operations important for the imperial economy. The policies started by Hadriana and continued for almost 200 years until their abandonment in the early 14th century were very harsh to the indigenous populations, becoming known as the Two Centuries of Terror. For example the Bereme, already outnumbered in their native lands, endured further cultural assimilation since traditional temples were replaced with Giovannese-built churches, and many ancient documents about religion and science were burned due to accusations of idolatry and witchcraft. The Emüne faced a similar situation in the south, their relative remoteness in comparison to the other groups not being enough to stop Giovannese settlers, while the Ardala and Ulerge were punished even more due to Khan Daichin II's revolt, their rich literary traditions heavily persecuted. New towns were built with Giovannese urban planning, including schools, churches and plazas to promote Giovannese cultural norms. They came to be where a majority of these groups were made to live, distant from their traditional cultures and religions as well as forbidden from speaking their native languages, although some instead escaped to remote regions. In the west, the Varanians were notable for the religious practices of the Mauvist Church. Given the importance of the meat tree species to them, a deforestation campaign happened in the imperial territories, as part of efforts to suppress their culture and clear more land for agriculture. However, the lands of modern-day southern Varanius weren't controlled by the Giovannian Empire, and the northern peoples also resisted, so the attempts in stamping out their culture and religion were eventually unsuccessful and Varanius later became independent. On the other hand, the greater presence of Giovannese settlers in modern-day Giovandolia and the success of cultural assimilation there paved the way for its transformation from colony to an integral part of Giovanniland later, outlasting the Empire. Hadriana's younger brother Karlo inherited the throne after her death. He reorganized the nation's administrative divisions, introducing the two-tier system of regions and municipalities that is still used today, and led the Karlian Renaissance where the Empire regained cultural and economical strength over several decades without major internal conflicts. Furthermore, he also built upon the work of his two predecessors that had opened relations with Minsu and Blue Bubble, and worked towards the formation of friendly ties, which was achieved towards the end of his reign. The following reigns of Antonia and Nima III continued these principles and also made the first steps for the eventual industrialization of Giovanniland. Unfortunately, a new period of turmoil started when Nima III was assassinated in 1192. Her younger brother Petro II attempted to decrease tensions but faced a major rebellion in northern Varanius that threatened to spill to the rest of the Colony of Lido Flavi. Petro was unable to quell the revolt, and the situation was left to Emperor Klaudio to solve, who saved the lands of modern-day northern Giovandolia while recognizing the independence of Varanius in 1204. Over the following years Klaudio also signed decolonization treaties for other territories, such as the Doyan Islands. His daughter Anna II inherited the throne in 1217, and seeing the need for national modernization and stability, Anna relinquished part of her power and the title of Empress in 1225, marking the change between the Giovannian Empire and the modern Kingdom of Giovanniland. She also granted equal administrative status to Auran and Andolian Giovanniland, abolishing the colonies of Lido Flavi and Kordelleria, and replacing them with regular regions administered as in Lavender Island.

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

< Previous: The Unification of Lavender Island Beyond Lavender Island The southern Darkesian Sea in the year of 720 AF. Expansion during the Early Giovannian Empire After the unification of Lavender Island in 689 AF, there were three peaceful decades during which the empire made important progress in trade and military affairs. Expansion then happened once more due to economic interests, this time outside of the island. When the Ardala Khanate in northern Andolia fell into a succession war in 721, Giovanni II authorized an imperial fleet to sail off Porto Violeto and Abrentopole soon after. The fleet reached the Isule Annovi in the first day of 724, where the important fortress of Isula Magna was founded, and afterwards it landed in the Ardalan mainland. The city of Andoliavilla was the first major settlement founded by the Giovannians there, and the coast was named Lido Flavi, in honor of Admiral Flavio that led this fleet. The imperial armies took advantage of the fighting between the khans Naran, Elbeg and Tsaghan, who fought for control of the Ardala Khanate. Naran Khan was the most powerful of them, at the time controlling the Ardalan capital of Altan-qota and also the fertile valleys of the Irto River. From the newly founded base of Andoliavilla in 724, General Ottavio gradually came to conquer the Irto River valleys and surrounding lands over the next few years, allying with some local rulers unhappy with the Ardalan rule. Concurrently, General Galzeno fought against the troops of Tsaghan Khan in eastern Ardala, capturing their chief settlement of Tengis and killing the khan in 729. Two generals joined their forces for the siege of Altan-qota, which lasted until 734. Ottavio then invaded the royal palace to murder Naran Khan and his family, ordering the destruction of the city, and founded the colonies of Lido Flavi and Doruna. The final expansion of Giovanni's reign saw General Lukiano advance southwards into the lands controlled by Tamir Khan, Naran's younger brother, where he founded the Colony of Kordelleria. Last but not least, the emperor signed of the Treaty of Syntilla with Saint Mark in 744, starting a centuries-long collaboration between the two Auran powers that continues to this day. Giovanni's successor was his granddaughter Emilia, and during her reign there was an attempt to conquer the last independent Ardalan lands, however it had mixed results and only managed to annex a few cities. Emilia had more success with conquering the realms in modern-day Fhaengshia, ordering a large military expedition to be raised in the Colony of Doruna and then march east. It entered the Kingdom of Ahfeginsi in the 751, soon capturing the capital Finsi and annexing the entire realm in 752, and the same happened to the Kingdom of Shihganfe in 754 after the successful siege of the capital Ganfa. Unfortunately, the Giovannian advance was stopped after a failed siege in 755 to the city of Ruike, held by the powerful Kingdom of Fhaengshia. Emilia died later that year, leaving the throne to her younger sister Anna I, who ordered the conquest to halt for the time being. She agreed to send reinforcements from Lavender Island a year and a half later, and once they arrived, General Numerio commanded a successful siege of Ruike. Meanwhile, Admiral Nero won naval battles near the cities of Pirhaen and the capital Fhaendhaw by 760, leading King Soetihn of Fhaengshia to escape to the southern Gheffian region in advance. The imperial forces then pursued him over the two next years until he agreed to surrender in 762, and the Colony of Fhaengshia was then established. Anna's later years saw further colonial expansion, for example fighting the last Ardalan resistance, led by Elbeg's third son Daichin Khan who commanded a fierce last stand against the Giovannian Empire. He was killed after the siege of Gal-gazar in 770, and his lands were annexed to the Colony of Kordelleria. The empress also sought to expand the Colony of Doruna eastwards to better connect it with the new Colony of Fhaengshia, adding in 781 the mountainous lands of modern-day central Fhaengshia to it, and then consolidating control of the new colonies until her death in 792. Her nephew Paldeno then ruled until 805 and sent expeditions towards islands in the central Darkesian Sea as well as the Outer Sirenas to the southeast, in order to increase the Empire's trading influence. Middle Giovannian Empire (Pax Giovanniana) A detailed map of the Giovannian Empire's conquests, including major happenings such as agreements, battles and the founding of new settlements. The reign of Paldeno's son Iulio II started a period of peace and prosperity for the Giovannian Empire, featuring magnificent economic growth and development of a national identity. During Iulio's reign, many composers, writers and artists had their works financed by notable merchants, and farther expeditions began to establish trading posts in other continents. Iulio's younger sister Abrelia reigned from 824 to 853, and she oversaw the annexation of the Emüne Kingdom in 830 to expand the Kordelleria colony southwards, and an expansion of the Fhaengshian colony into the southern forests. The two next rulers Tenzina and Kesare made preparation for further expeditions by enhancing the military with new technology, and also oversaw the transfer of the capital from Porto Violeto to the newly founded Giovannia, a city built in order to celebrate the prosperity of the empire. This ushered in the reign of Kesare's daughter Zodena I from 888 to 916. The Varanian War happened in the middle of her reign, in which the northern tribes of Varanius were annexed to the Lido Flavi colony in 904, cementing the Giovannian Empire's influence in the Darkesian Sea. However, defeats against the southern tribes and their geographical remoteness led Zodena to table her plans for annexing the rest. Her younger brother Vittore ruled from 916 to 937, and his reign saw the start of a new age of exploration in the Viatic Ocean, starting famous trade routes with the western Nuran civilizations. In modern-day Sekiya for example, Porto Nurano (Tianshi) was founded in an island off the Sekiyan coast in 920, and later in the decade, the trading posts of Divalle (Qiuxia), Bopeng, Tommasopole (Touma), and Trilaquo (Sanbo) were added to the Empire. The coastal states of Fugo and Fuzhou also fell under Giovannian influence as puppets, but not directly controlled, a model that was also widely repeated in other areas. Vittore's successors reaped the benefits from the Giovannian fleets' voyages around Esferos, marking the 10th century as a time of economic, cultural and military prosperity. His son Giovanni III and daughter Trinella channeled this wealth into development of the mainland, and cities such as Porto Violeto, Abrentopole, and Urido thrived as major commercial hubs. Further overseas voyages took place during the rule of Trinella's son Dolkare, reaching the peak territorial extent and military strength of the Empire. Dolkare's son Tommaso II then ruled from 999 to 1039, celebrated for a long and peaceful reign that consolidated a new cultural era. However, his rule is also seen in an ambiguous light since economical and military advances fell behind during this time, causing problems later. Overall during the Middle Giovannian Empire period, unparalleled economic growth happened due to strategic control over lucrative trade routes and abundant resources. The many voyages and expeditions facilitated trade with all continents and brought in diverse goods, while farming and resource extraction in the colonies provided an important backbone to the imperial economy. These riches fueled urban growth as well as the construction of marketplaces, universities, palaces, Iantenist temples, and other public works showcasing Giovannese affluence. The merchant class gained prestige and led commercial innovations—the grand expeditions during the time of Vittore were supported by organizations of merchants and moneylenders, such as the Trading Institute of Lavandula established at Urido in 923, which evolved a century later into the Emeria Lavanda as a pioneer in the history of modern banking. Social aspects such as culture and religion were also strongly affected by the economic prosperity. This period was a time of artistic and intellectual brilliance, featuring famous works such as the Epic of Giovanniland about the national history of several millennia, the majestic frescoes of the Imperial Palace, and the Giovannese style of classical music with world-renowned operas. Meanwhile, Iantenism reached new lands and left a lasting legacy, with positive aspects such as the prominence of events like the Lavender Festival, and the educational role of founding many academies and universities promoting literacy, philosophy, and the sciences. However, negative aspects were also present, since most religious heads did not object to the abuses carried out by colonial administrators against indigenous peoples, and instead benefitted from the spread of Iantenism. In regards to the ethnic groups, the Giovannese enjoyed the most privilege in the empire. Besides the important economic and cultural roles, the imperial government also encouraged them to settle in the colonies, in areas such as fertile valleys and mining areas, where they came to control vast agriculture and extraction operations. The other peoples of Lavender Island, namely the Glenpavian and Minsunese, were also important for the Empire's development, with many of them adhering to Giovannese culture and reaching positions of power. However, movements of expression advocating for valorization of their native cultures surged by the end of the period, eventually developing into the independence of Blue Bubble and Minsu decades later. On the other hand, the indigenous inhabitants of the colonies suffered greatly at the hands of the Empire. Many perished in the wars of conquest and resistance, while harsh working conditions and forced labor in mines, plantations, and construction projects claimed more lives under colonial rule. Giovannese settlers soon outnumbered natives in strategic regions like the Irto River Valley, leading to traditional ways of life being disrupted while a new society shaped by colonial culture emerged, and any rebellion opposing it was thwarted with force.

The Forest Lavender is the namesake of Lavender Island and native to the vast tropical broadleaf forests that cover its territory. It bears some resemblance to the mediterranean lavender found in some other regions of Esferos, but has key differences to fit the tropical climate. Furthermore, it also has a central place in the cultures of Lavender Island's peoples. Biology Forest lavenders feature large, dark green and waxy leaves to capture sunlight, which is limited in the dense forests of Lavender Island. These broad and spread-out leaves are similar to various other plant species in the forest, serving to maximize the intake of light and to store higher levels of chlorophyll, which enhances the photosynthesis. Both the leaves and stems are thick and robust, so that the forest lavender can thrive in the high humidity and rainfall, preventing infections. Furthermore, the species can survive both the wet and dry seasons due to its water management and leaf transpiration. The species' roots are shallow but more expansive, because tropical forests have soils whose top layers are richer in nutrients. It also benefits from several kinds of relationships with other living beings, such as associations with mycorrhizal fungi for better absorption of nutrients, and mutualism with local animals for seed dispersion and pollination. Notably, the lavender-colored flowers are very colorful and have a strong scent to attract pollination from birds, bats and insects found in tropical forests. Culture The forest lavender has been important to the civilizations of Lavender Island since time immemorial. The name of the ancient Lavandulan Empire comes from the plant, because it was prominently featured in the symbols of the initial ruling family that founded the empire, the Kezeno dynasty. By the end of the empire a millennium later, it came to retroactively identify the civilization throughout its entire history, and the name has persevered. Meanwhile, the island's name comes from the plant's ubiquitousness in the island, perceived both by its inhabitants and foreigners. Today, the forest lavender is widely cultivated across the island and in other tropical regions of Esferos, with many cultivars. Common uses for the plant include lavender essential oil, various culinary recipes, soaps, bath salts, aromatic sachets, and much more. The culinary uses are particularly notable, including but not limited to lavender cupcakes, tea, and lemonade, as well as the famous Giovannese lavender-seasoned pasta. The forest lavender also has an entire event dedicated to it, the Lavender Festival. It originated in the ancient Lavandulan Empire, passed down generation to generation ever since, and was extended to the entirety of what is now Giovanniland during the early Giovannian Empire. It happens during the week before New Year, starting from December 25th, since the forest lavender is considered a symbol of renewal and prosperity. Citizens celebrate the holiday with many activities, such as planting the species at home some time before December so they can be fully grown by the time of the event, decorating houses with lavender bunches and perfumes, and hosting several fairs for the many lavender products.