[TWPChooses #36]

Since it just became December in the timezone I live in, it's time for questions with a holidays theme!

Choose an option and post the reason below if you want.

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Giovannian Empire
An article from the Lavender Encyclopedia | Choose a different language

The Empire's maximum territorial extent during its second golden century (950-1050).
Full quality image link

Status: Empire

Absolute monarchy (648-1095)
Semi-constitutional monarchy (1095-1226)

Capital:

Rivomonte (648-650)
Porto Violeto (650-734)
Giovannia (734-1226)

Official Languages: Giovannese and Lavandulan

Other Languages: Glendulan and Minsunese (in Aura)
Fhaeng, Ganfa, Ardalan, Ulergen, Beremean, Emunian, Varanian (in Andolia)

State Religion: Violetism
Demonym: Giovannian
Area: 

648 (initial extent): 165,700 km²
731 (unification of Lavender Island): 460,800 km²
850 (after colonization of Fhaengshia, Giovandolia and the Outer Sirenas): 1,052,400 km²
950 (after colonization of northern Varanius and overseas trading posts): 1,130,000 km²
1095 (after independence of Blue Bubble, Minsu and Fhaengshia): 508,200 km²
1225 (end of the Empire and modern area): 395,107 km²

The Giovannian Empire (Giovannese: Imperio Giovanniano or Imperio de Giovanniterra) was a late medieval and early modern state in the southern coasts of the Darkesian Sea, with lands in both Aura and Andolia, that existed from 648 to 1225. 

The empire was founded in central Lavender Island from an alliance between the Abrentan and Lavandulan civilizations, and then proceeded to unify the island for the next century. Wars against Minsu (675-688) and Blue Bubble (726-731), in between periods of rebuilding and improvement of the nation's military, and increased trading, marked the first century of the empire. Afterwards, the empire set its sights beyond the island, embarking on a lengthy conquest of various states in northern Andolia between 750 and 850, corresponding to what is today Fhaengshia, Giovandolia and the Outer Sirenas, and also securing a pivotal treaty with Saint Mark in 780.

The empire's maximum extent was reached in the next century after the annexation of northern Varanius and the voyages across the oceans that led to the establishment of multiple trading posts, such as in the coast of western Nur, an era deemed the Golden Age (850-1050). However, the empire came to a decline with the Lavender Revolutions of the late 11th century, which re-established the independence of Blue Bubble and Minsu. Soon after, the return of the Fhaengshian monarchy happened, regaining into control of their entire country after their centuries-long exile in the southern lands of Fhaengshia and causing further territorial losses for the empire.

The empire's final century featured a change of government, from an absolute to a semi-constitutional monarchy, and a greater focus into modernization and adaptation. This successfully consolidated control of Giovaura and Giovandolia, although the western provinces of the latter (modern-day northern Varanius) were lost in 1204. In order to keep up with the times, the final years of the empire saw the start of industrialization, and the eventual transition into a full constitutional monarchy in 1226.

Formation

The Giovannian Empire's origins date back to an intricate period of Lavender Island history. In the late 6th century, the Abrentan civilization was experiencing turmoil after its prosperous Classical Era, with the Abrentan Republic being divided into three states in 574, and these successor realms breaking into even smaller ones by 600. Meanwhile, the Lavandulan civilization faced a long decline during its post-imperial era, besides being threatened by the expansion of other peoples in the island such as the Minsunese. 

A notable happening of this time took place in the year of 571, just before the Abrentan division, when several Lavandulan states forged an alliance with the objective of eventually forming an union with the friendly Abrentans to the south. The ensuing crisis in Abrento threw a wrench in this plan, but two decades later they found a powerful ally in the Giovannian Domain, led by a general called Giovanni that had common interests with the Lavandulans of regaining lost glories, and strategically located in the crossroads between the Abrentan and Lavandulan civilizations.

For the next decades, the Giovannian Domain start to conquer the other Abrentan successor realms one by one, aided by the Lavandulans. The Akallian Confederacy was the first to fall, in 604, followed by the Kornelian Domain in 612, Principality of Kadrina in 615 and Duchy of Velitamme in 623. The ensuing conquests were harder, as they included powerful and populous areas like the Duchy of Rivamora and the rump state of the Abrentan Republic. However, by instigating rebellions in Rivamora that state was also defeated, and after the annexation of the frontier County of Edrense by 640, the Abrentan Republic was left totally encircled. Thus began a long siege that lasted for eight years, until the capital Abrentopole fell and Abrento was reunified. Thereafter, the Giovannian Empire was officially founded, by uniting the two lands of Abrento and Lavandula.

Unification of Lavender Island

The unification of Lavender Island under the Giovannian Empire.

The Giovannian Domain's small capital of Rivomonte soon gave way to the much larger city of Porto Violeto, at the time the largest city in the empire that was not also a previous polity's seat of power, so it was chosen as a neutral new capital. With that began a long process of reconstruction, since the lands of the Empire had seen constant conflict for much of the previous century. The now crowned Emperor Giovanni I, son of the general that forged the alliance with the Lavandulans, focused on improving the nation's economy, expanding its military and seeking trade relations with neighboring nations, while also adding to the empire some frontier mountainous regions, ruling until his death in 655, having ruled the Empire and its predecessor state since 624.

The remainder of the 7th century then saw the rule of two other emperors. Giovanni's younger brother Lorentio I ruled from 655 to 672 and largely continued his brother's policies, further strengthening the Empire, while Lorentio's son Tommaso I ruled from 672 to 701 and took the empire on a different path, starting the second phase of the Lavender Unification Wars. With the preparations laid down by the two previous emperors, Tommaso I declared war on Minsu in 675, seeking to conquer the powerful state to the east which was seen as a threat to imperial ambitions. The war was tough, lasting for thirteen years and happening on two different fronts, the northern and southern. These two fronts eventually met on southeast Lavender Island, where the Minsunese civilization had started around three millennia before, and also the location of its main cities such as Tanba and Shinano, which fell on 688.

After Tommaso's death, his daughter Emilia I ascended to the throne, ruling from 701 to 726, whose reign was marked by a peaceful period in between the major wars of her predecessor and successor's reigns, and also by the increase of trading posts established by the empire across the Darkesian, which helped to expand the nation's trading routes. During Emilia's reign, Giovannian operatives furthermore acted in foreign lands that could be potentially annexed to the empire in the future by stoking division and turmoil, such as the Ardala Khanate that fell in 712. After her death, Tommaso's younger son Giovanni II became the emperor after that, and due to his achievements is commonly known as Giovanni the Great. 

The first of his major acts was to finish what his father intended, to unify the entirety of Lavender Island. The invasion of Blue Bubble happened from 727 to 731—at the time, the Glendulans were divided into northern and southern clans that were fighting a cold war, the result of a civil war centuries before. The northern clan quickly allowed conquest, in the belief that the empire would help the side win, while the southern clan resisted for four more years until its eventual defeat in 731. Thus the island was unified at last, and a new city called Giovannia was built on the orders of Giovanni II to celebrate this achievement, on the original land of the Giovannian Domain. The city then became the capital three years later, marking the transition to a new phase of the empire.

Reign of Giovanni II

The southern Darkesian Sea in the year of 750 AF on the eve of the first expeditions.

Giovanni II ruled until 782 for a total of 56 years, the longest of any emperor, and had already left a mark in history in his first few years by being the first ruler to unify the entirety of Lavender Island. After two peaceful decades during with the empire adapted to this new reality and made important progress in trade and military affairs, expansion happened once more, this time outside of the island. The emperor had economical interests of expanding its territory in order to increase the empire's riches, and also because previous emperors had already been paving the way for conquest by destabilizing foreign lands.

Two imperial sailed off Porto Violeto and Abrentopole in 750, headed to the coasts of northern Andolia. The first fleet landed on the sandy shores of what is now the Fhaengshian territory of Ahfeginsi, defeating the Kingdom of Ahfeginsi and annexing its capital Finsi in 751, while the second fleet reached the Islas dell'Annovo in the new year of 753, where the important fortress of Forte Giovanni (modern Islamagna) was founded. One year later, the second expedition reached what is now modern Giovandolia, getting involved in wars against the Ardala Khanate's successor khanates, with the city of Andoliavilla being the first major settlement founded by the Giovannians there. This fleet was led by General Flavio, later honored when the coast was named after him.

The ensuing decades saw more conflict in northern Andolia. In Fhaengshia, the Giovannian armies stationed advanced southwards, annexing more realms such as the Kingdom of Shihganfe in 758, home to the large religious city of Ganfa as the capital, but in the winter of 762 their advance was stopped by the most powerful state in the area, the Kingdom of Fhaengshia, which was centered on the islands and the capital Fhaendhaw, with some territory in the south as well. General Filippo then sent a letter calling for reinforcements to Emperor Giovanni II, and in October of the same year they arrived from Abrentopole.

After some naval battles near Ruike and the capital Fhaendhaw, King Soetihn agreed to surrender, while Crown Prince Meisinh, the leader of the forces in the Gheffian region, ordered a retreat to the jungles of modern southeast Fhaengshia. The Colony of Fhaengshia (Kolonia de Fensìa) then was established in November of 762 and lasted for more than three centuries, although it originally only included the eastern Fhaengshian coast—the western plateau was originally a different colony, the Highlands Colony (Kolonia dello Planalto) that was founded one decade after, but later included in the modern state due to migration westwards during the Empire's time.

Meanwhile, in modern Giovandolia, the Ardalan successor khanates saw the threat of the invading empire and crafted alliances to resist the imperial expansion. The full conquest of civilizations such as the Ardala, Bereme and Ulerge took several decades to be accomplished and outlasted Giovanni II's reign, though by the time of his death significant advances had been made by the imperial forces. After the arrival into the mainland and the founding of Andoliavilla in 753, expansion continued in the valleys of the Irto River in modern-day northwestern Giovandolia through a series of battles, leading to the area's annexation by 770.

Furthermore, despite initial setbacks suffered by the Giovannian forces, the old Ardalan capital of Altan-qota (Giovannese: Oddabrio) endured a siege of several years, but it ultimately fell and was razed in 778, its riches stolen and brought to Lavender Island. This was a result aided by revolts from subjects of the Ardalans, that were incited by the Giovannians, and led to the annexation of the entire coast of modern Giovandolia, deemed the Colony of Fernando Coast (Kolonia dell'Lido Ferenno), while the native Andolians resisted for longer in the inland valleys and mountains. It was the last expansion of Giovanni II's reign, though the emperor also achieved a significant diplomatic victory in the end of his realm through the signing of the Treaty of Syntilla with Saint Mark, starting a centuries-long collaboration between the two Auran powers that continues to this day. 

Consolidation of the Empire

The administrative divisions (darker green) and colonies (lighter green) of the Giovannian Empire.
[OOC: Article to be continued later]

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Good evening to all! This is your host of the Sports Report, Numerio Dellio-Oliverde, with the news that Giovanniland has successfully advanced from the group stage of the World Cup of Football. It was tough, but we've made it! Huzzah! We'll be covering the results of the last two matches played by our football team and how they went.

Matchday 4 - Giovanniland 0-1 United Adaikes (Halftime: 0-1)

The fourth game of our team was against United Adaikes, featuring a slightly different roster due to the expulsion of Manuella Giakobo in the previous matchday, replaced by Teodoro Sonserina. The first goal of the match came in the 21st minute, scored by Adaikesian forward Sonya Kynaston in a counterattack, after Giovanniland's striker Gustavo Zapata had a good chance to score but the shot was caught by the opposing goalkeeper Abby Kidd.

There were good chances to score from both sides, and aside from the goal for United Adaikes, the match seemed fairly even. Sadly, their defense was effective and stopped any scoring attempts from Team Giovanniland, although our three strikers nevertheless had a fair performance and our defense also improved after the goal that went through.

The match once more came to a heated moment when Lorentio Santo-Ferrari was the target of a grave foul during the Adaikesian defense area while he had the possession of the ball, and thus Giovanniland was awarded a penalty. Lorentio himself took the penalty, but unfortunately it hit the crossbar. This was near the ending of the match, and soon the whistle blew to mark the final score: Giovanniland 0-1 United Adaikes, the third loss in a row and putting the team in a delicate situation.

Matchday 5 - Giovanniland 2-1 Peourouin (Halftime: 0-1)
Goals: Lorentio Santo-Ferrari (52'), Matteo Ventomar (90'+2')

For the last matchday, Giovanniland came into the match needing a win to advance, and furthermore requiring at least one of Sekiya or Teralyon to lose their matches, since they were in direct competition with our team for the third and fourth spots. The match was against Peourouin, another team that could still qualify, so stakes were high.

For most of the first half the match stayed goalless, with midfielder Gabriella Orfeo bringing the strongest threat to the Peouroun defensive area in the 15th minute, but the shot was diverted by their side's defense player Voldymyd Gorun. Near the end, the Peouroun forward Odeyh Ussrsaii brought a dangerous attack into the Giovannilandian defensive area that was successfully defended, but in the rebound, their fellow teammate Sayu Aktar opened the score, at the 42nd minute.

During halftime, Giovanniland was then the last-placed team in the group, and the moment called for change. Coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare then made some adjustments in the second half, making the team further focused on offense by replacing Klementina de Abreo-Florino with another striker, Tarutio Lukulli, who got to play his first World Cup match as part of the national team, and in the midfield switching Gabriella Orfeo for Mara Erdene-Aruna. 

This proved to be successful, as the momentum successfully resulted in a goal by Lorentio Santo-Ferrari, who redeemed himself after missing the penalty in the previous match. The task was still not completed, however, as the team stayed at fifth place behind Teralyon due to the goal differential. Both teams needed a goal, as a draw would benefit neither, which meant that the atmosphere in the Istadio Gral. Tavara Dipartí continued animated, both Giovannilandian and Peouroun fans cheering for their own teams and the strikers attempting every way possible to break the deadlock.

It seemed that nothing would come from subsequent attacks, and the match would stay as a draw. Both teams had beautiful attempts to score, but both defenses were also working perfectly. With both teams on the brink of elimination, when all seemed lost, Giovanniland's striker Matteo Ventomar found the right angle to get the ball past the Peouroun goalkeeper Jakub Ostatna, and score the second and final goal of our team in the stoppage time of the second half. This goal came from an assistance by the young Tarutio Lukulli, successfully making a pivotal impact in his first World Cup match.

The stadium erupted with cheers, but waited, as three more tense minutes were still left in the clock. Then, at 90'+5', the final whistle sounded and fans celebrated the nation's qualification at last, in what is perhaps one of the most suspenseful and breathtaking ways to qualify. Team Giovanniland barely made it in, securing qualification in fourth place of the group through a comeback win, while Teralyon dropped to fifth place, a bad day for their fans since their team had just lost to United Adaikes over at Istadio Rio Bianco.

Now, the next match stands to be a tough challenge, as Team Giovanniland meets defending champion Nieubasria in the round of 16, their team having qualified as leader of group C. Twice the teams have played before, although none in the World Cup—first Nieubasria won 6-3 in the gold medal match of the I Summer Esferiad at Saint-Josalyn. Then on the following edition, the II Summer Esferiad here at Quoriv and Kharventhin, Giovanniland won 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in the semifinals!

Coach Hettor stated that they hope for a good match nevertheless, and that our team should perform the best that they can no matter who the opponent is. Rest assured, Giovannilandians can at least celebrate that our team has escaped the threat of group stage elimination, which would be unprecedented in national football history, and now will at least equal the two previous World Cups' feat of reaching the round of 16. 

That is all from us today, stay tuned for more news from the 3rd World Cup of Football in Ryxtylopia and make sure to be here in our channel to watch the Giovanniland vs. Nieubasria match two days from now!

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Introduction

For the first part of this Travel Guide, before delving deeper into each of the sixteen regions, we have decided to start with an overview of them. This introduction features a description and some statistics for each region, and the regions are also listed here in the same order they will appear in the guide, starting with the most populous region Giovannia Magna, as mentioned in the preface. 

(OOC: The images for each region are AI-generated).

Giovannia Magna

• Population: 3,591,220
• Area: 13,061 km²
• Density: 275/km²
• Capital: Giovannia (pop. 1,563,119)
• Notable cities: Vinikiana (pop. 240,927), Raffellara (pop. 228,012), Mattenia (pop. 154,225)

Giovannia Magna is the heart of the country, its most populous and most densely populated region. The national capital Giovannia lies at the central part of the region, near the confluence of the Keleste River with its tributary, the Terente. An area of more recent population, as the city was built as a planned new capital for the Giovannian Empire, the region stands today as a testament of the nation's development. Giovannia offers a range of historical and cultural attractions such as the old Imperial Palace and the National Museum side by side with very futuristic buildings, and beyond the capital, other cities within its metropolitan area of 3 million inhabitants are also well worth the visit.

Giovannia, the national capital.

Lavanda Prima

• Population: 2,877,251
• Area: 18,686 km²
• Density: 154/km²
• Capital: Uryde (pop. 509,819)
• Notable cities: Quorivo (pop. 262,144), Dazane (pop. 181,632), Kyene (pop. 150,825)

The cradle of the ancient Lavandulan civilization, Lavanda Prima is one of the main travel destinations of Giovanniland. Its capital Uryde was once the capital of the Lavandulan Empire, under its old name of Lavandula, and retains several historical buildings from antiquity, the city of Quorivo is known for the powerful medieval duchy that bears its name and for being one of the two II Summer Esferiad host cities, and more to the south, Kyene is the birthplace of Violetism and a site of pilgrimage featuring the largest Violetist temple in Esferos. Furthermore, Lavanda Prima is also notable for its beautiful and popular beaches on the northern coasts, and for its two famous festivals, the Lavender Festival and Violet Carnival.

The historical district of Uryde.

Lavanda Sekunda

• Population: 1,260,934
• Area: 22,342 km²
• Density: 56/km²
• Capital: Kastellavando (pop. 116,205)
• Notable cities: Rivomonte (pop. 104,333), Pelkarma (pop. 70,822), Lyogalla (pop. 52,830)

Lavanda Sekunda offers the feeling of Lavandulan history and culture just like Lavanda Prima, but also a respite from the multiple large and bustling cities of its northern neighbor. The region name is a historical reference to the fact the Lavandulan civilization first grew near the coastal lowlands to the north, and then expanded southwards during the Lavandulan Empire to the hilly areas that today compose Lavanda Sekunda. Some of its attractions are its beautiful broadleaf forests and multiple Violetist temples throughout the countryside; as well as the area to the south where the contact between the Lavandulan and Abrentan civilizations happened during the Middle Ages, home to the first capital of the Giovannian Empire, Rivomonte.

A Violetist temple in the countryside.

Verdiante

• Population: 755,901
• Area: 21,968 km²
• Density: 34/km²
• Capital: Valsereno (pop. 81,559)
• Notable cities: Gile (pop. 54,270), Pradobeno (pop. 50,245), Amarena (pop. 39,522)

Verdiante is a region known for its natural wonders. It contains a majority of the Ameno River's basin, a significant river that marks the southern section of the border with Blue Bubble, with many beautiful lakes, valleys and waterfalls. The capital Valserene is the starting point of many itineraries that traverse the region, from the western plains to the northern highlands, passing through numerous smaller, charming cities with a calm atmosphere. These itineraries are a notable example of eco-tourism in Giovanniland, showing the region's commitment to preserving its natural beauty. A known landmark of the region is the Abrio Peak, the highest point of Giovaura, near the small town of Altario. 

A view of the Abrio Peak and the forests surrounding it.

Primolido

• Population: 3,141,592
• Area: 12,376 km²
• Density: 254/km²
• Capital: Porto Violeto (pop. 1,004,153)
• Notable cities: Annavilla (pop. 305,746), Amorante (pop. 213,504), Kampobello (pop. 147,069)

Primolido is Giovanniland's third most populous region, known for its beautiful coasts, rich culture, and very advanced development. The region's name pays homage to being the first lands settled by the Abrentan civilization, which then expanded throughout southwestern Lavender Island and laid the basis for Giovanniland's modern history together with the Lavandulans. The capital Porto Violeto is the nation's most important port and also a hub of tourism, featuring several famous waterfronts and promenades. Other cities such as Annavilla and Amorante are popular for their many beaches and nightlife, while the northern part of the region features some off the beaten path locations and the Isla Abrenta, a major island. 

Porto Violeto, Giovanniland's second largest city.

Akallia

• Population: 1,599,678
• Area: 19,987 km²
• Density: 80/km²
• Capital: Salvoregno (pop. 162,087)
• Notable cities: Lurtone (pop. 120,631), Sonserina (pop. 103,715), Lastrilla (pop. 75,963)

Often overlooked, the region of Akallia is not only a gateway between Giovannia Magna and Primolido, but also a very unique travel destination on its own. Settled in the early and middle periods (95 BF-349 AF) of the Abrentan Classical Era, this region offers some of the best preserved castles and villages of that civilization. Its capital and other large cities still show strong traits of the medieval Abrentan architecture and culture to this day, learning to conciliate modern development with their rich history. One can also visit smaller cities where these storied buildings are still nearly intact, the inhabitants offer warm hospitality, and the streets tell tales of a bygone era. 

The city of Salvoregno and its Great Castle.

Spandorto

• Population: 856,196
• Area: 42,001 km²
• Density: 20/km²
• Capital: Tommasia (pop. 76,920)
• Notable cities: Uprino (pop. 64,833), Kornelio (pop. 41,609), Kurrente (pop. 31,728)

Similar to the region of Verdiante, Spandorto is also a good destination for those seeking to explore the nature of Lavender Island and enjoy the local culture in some smaller cities. The region features plains to the west, notable for being one of the areas in Giovanniland with the highest amount of farmland, and more mountainous territory to the east, which is sparsely populated. Some notable destinations include the two largest cities Tommasia and Uprino, often the first stops in a trip in this region, the iconic city of Oddolino surrounded by many hills and known for its beautiful buildings, and the famous waterfalls of the Gratioso River, a tourist attraction on the Giovannilandian-Minsunese border.

The central district of Oddolino.

Abrenosto

• Population: 3,571,249
• Area: 29,550 km²
• Density: 121/km²
• Capital: Abrentopole (pop. 425,870)
• Notable cities: Karlopole (pop. 347,106), Portovini (pop. 134,057), Bayabrenti (133,574)

Abrenaustro is a region best known for its lively culture, with a name meaning Southern Abrento and alluding to the southern expansion of the Abrentan civilization and foundation of their second capital, Abrentopole, which today continues on as an important city. This city is often called the Giovannilandian Capital of Culture, owing to its famous festivals, art exhibitions and culinary scene. Many traditional meals from Giovanniland originated in this region, such as the world-famous pizza and the many recipes featuring seafood. Other notable destinations include Portovini, aptly named for the vineyards near the city, and Karlopole, a city of more recent settlement which is located near the Minsunese border and offers a distinct blend of cultures.

Waterfront and restaurants in Abrentopole.

Lido Flavi

• Population: 2,011,284
• Area: 12,870 km²
• Density: 156/km²
• Capital: Andoliavilla (pop. 640,816)
• Notable cities: Flaviopole (pop. 219,422), Giuvenoria (pop. 123,855), Einotta (pop. 108,162)

Lido Flavi is home to Giovandolia's capital Andoliavilla, the third largest city and second largest port in Giovanniland, a coastal haven notable for its vibrant nightlife and culture, alongside historical buildings from the time of Giovannian Empire and large museums. Also notable is Flaviopole, founded on the site that the expedition to Andolia by the general Flaviopole first landed, and other coastal cities like Giuvenoria and Delliaro. Lido Flavi is also home to the Irto River's delta and several different biomes, such as moist and dry broadleaf forests, as well as arid and semiarid shrublands, a nice combination for eco-tourism. 

Andoliavilla, Giovanniland's third largest city.

Feragia

• Population: 2,402,339
• Area: 23,586 km²
• Density: 102/km²
• Capital: Nenofre (pop. 237,690)
• Notable cities: Urbevittori (pop. 128,165), Kantemo (pop. 101,472), Novo Uryde (pop. 88,125)

To the south of Lido Flavio lies the region of Feragia, the most populous of Giovandolia, with its vast plains and shrublands. The capital Nenofre is located on the plains crossed by the Irto River, being one of the many settlements dating back to the ancient Beremean civilization that flourish until today, while others. The region's mostly plain territory and fertile lands are perfect for agriculture, while tourism is also significant due to the many ancient ruins. There are also cities that have a strong Lavandulan influence, such as Novo Uryde and Vallespi, with many Violetist temples.

Landscape in Feragia, featuring ruins of an ancient city.

Terra Violeta

• Population: 1,138,762
• Area: 18,703 km²
• Density: 61/km²
• Capital: Villaflori (pop. 145,603)
• Notable cities: Antoniopole (pop. 62,921), Bevimo (pop. 51,470), Urbeleoni (pop. 44,314)

Terra Violeta is a land of many valleys and mountains located to the south of Feragia, known for its beautiful savannas and grasslands. Villaflori, the City of Flowers, is Terra Violeta's capital and fits its name well, featuring large gardens alongside its modern buildings that are worth the visit. The capital and other major cities are mostly located on the lowlands of the Irto River and its tributaries, while the highlands have smaller settlements and breathtaking views. There are several itineraries that explore the rural lands of Terra Violeta, with the aforementioned valleys and mountains.

The largest garden in Villaflori.

Altana

• Population: 1,652,036
• Area: 13,518 km²
• Density: 122/km²
• Capital: Islamagna (pop. 321,874)
• Notable cities: Bayabella (pop. 170,236), Potestana (pop. 111,382), Nova Annavilla (pop. 105,190)

Altana, nicknamed the Land of Eternal Coasts, is the second most densely populated region in Giovandolia and also the northernmost, when considering the Islas dell'Annovo province. In the coastline of Altana, golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see, and some of the most famous beaches in the entire country can be found here. The capital Islamagna is located on the archipelago and developed from a medieval fort called Forte Giovanni, one of the earliest conquered areas by the Giovannian Empire outside Lavender Island, therefore it has plenty of historical places to visit. Other interesting destinations are on the mainland, like the popular coastal cities Bayabella and Potestana, as well as Oddabrio (Altan-qota), the historical capital of the Ardala Khanate.

The coast of Islamagna.

Doruna

• Population: 1,055,820
• Area: 12,856 km²
• Density: 82/km²
• Capital: Markellia (pop. 119,456)
• Notable cities: Sekundia (pop. 87,635), Granfoge (pop. 62,910), Murengo (pop. 52,162) 

Doruna, meaning the Eastern Region, features many valleys and mountains and has a similar vegetation to Terra Violeta. The capital Markellia is a picturesque town surrounded by vineyards and orchards, offering a taste of the region's agricultural richness, while Tenge is notable for its seaside resorts, both located on the more densely populated northern part of the region. Meanwhile, the southern cities of Kadivale and Urruma offer a gateway to the mountainous and sparsely populated lands of south Vallivante, where many explorers partake in travels towards the upper reaches of the Irto River.

The landscape around the city of Murengo.

Oltoveno

• Population: 903,482
• Area: 21,561 km²
• Density: 42/km²
• Capital: Gallasera (pop. 60,781)
• Notable cities: Ettore (pop. 52,410), Andona (pop. 42,345), Giakinia (pop. 41,859)

Oltoveno is located on the central lands of Giovandolia and offers diverse landscapes. In the north, cities such as Andona and Quirino are good starting points for itineraries to explore the valleys of the Mellito River and the Altandobbo Mountains located on its northern border. The capital Gallasera and the city of Giakinia are known for their lively culture and nightlife, while in the south, the city of Ettore is the gateway for the southern regions of Kordelleria and Vallemuni.

The capital Gallasera and the Irto River.

Vallemuni

• Population: 1,748,631
• Area: 28,009 km²
• Density: 62/km²
• Capital: Gioseppole (pop. 161,914)
• Notable cities: Daurone (pop. 115,477), Purpurana (pop. 100,336), Amorio (pop. 63,209)

Vallemuni is known both for its artistic prowess and scenic nature. The capital Gioseppole is known for its grand theaters, art galleries, and street performances, as well as the Gioseppole Arts Festival, the largest in southern Giovandolia. Other cities such as Amorio and Daurone feature interesting architecture on the riverbanks of the Emuno, while the southern areas (the extreme south of Giovanniland overall) are known for eco-tourism, and natural reserves mainly the south. There are many options of trails and safaris for the tourists seeking to uncover the vast diversity of the grasslands and savannas, while being mindful about protecting the environment.

The city of Gioseppole during one of its Arts Festivals.

Kordelleria

• Population: 738,765
• Area: 84,020 km²
• Density: 9/km²
• Capital: L'Apertura (pop. 49,512)
• Notable cities: Monteventi (pop. 30,190), Pando (pop. 22,246), Larone (pop. 19,121) 

Last but not least, Kordelleria is the largest and also most sparsely populated region of Giovanniland, dominated by the majestic peaks and tranquil valleys of the Giovandolian Mountains, and home to coniferous forests not found anywhere else in the country. The capital L'Apertura is located in the main mountain pass that connects the lands north and south of the mountains. It's also a common starting point on tours to explore the vast mountainous region, while the small villages throughout the way are serene and idyllic places to stop by between the large hiking trails of an itinerary. If one is daring enough, an unique experience is to visit the Violeta Peak, the highest point of Giovanniland.

The Violet Peak during winter.

[Hall of Nations Application]

@MKSROHAN and @Thernniare both accepted!

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Team Giovanniland's International Records
in the Esferiad and World Cup

Tournament	Stage	Match	Scorer(s)
I Summer Esferiad, Saint-Josalyn, Cambria	Group Stage	GIO 2-1 HEJ	Regina Horatiano-Viselli (50', 76')
		GIO 1-1 KCM (2-2 at extra time, 3-2 penalties)	Lorentio Santo-Ferrari (24')
			Matteo Ventomar (102')
			Penalty scorers: Manuella Giakobo, Lorentio Santo-Ferrari and Sergio Feragi Faustiano
		GIO 1-0 IRA	Sergio Feragi Faustiano (78')
	Semifinal	GIO 2-1 FJA	Pietro Takeda (49')
			Gustavo Zapata (70')
	Final	GIO 3-6 NIU	Regina Horatiano-Viselli (5')
			Pietro Takeda (32')
			Gustavo Zapata (81')
1st World Cup of Football, United Adaikes	Group Stage	GIO 1-1 FHA	Kassio Fidustio-Severi (4o')
		GIO 0-0 PAL
		GIO 1-3 LXA	Gustavo Zapata (15')
		GIO 2-0 DAL	Klementina de Abreo-Florino (7')
			Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio (40')
		GIO 1-1 LTR	Herbina Gavio Horati (22')
	Round of 16	GIO 1-3 IRA	Gustavo Zapata (10')
II Summer Esferiad, Quorivo & Kharventhin, Giovanniland & Blue Bubble	Group Stage	GIO 2-0 ARF	Arabella Viator-Nyima (35')
			Lorentio Santo-Ferrari (66')
		GIO 0-1 FJA
		GIO 3-0 TUP	Matteo Ventomar (9', 21')
			Arabella Viator-Nyima (58')
		GIO 3-1 UAD	Kassio Fidustio-Severi (29')
			Gustavo Zapata (45'+2')
			Klementina de Abreo-Florino (77')
	Quarterfinal	GIO 1-0 DIL	Gustavo Zapata (10')
	Semifinal	GIO 2-2 NIU (2-2 at extra time, 5-4 penalties)	Pietro Takeda (21')
			Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli (90'+3')
			Penalty scorers: Teodoro Sonserina, Gabriella Orfeo, Pietro Takeda,  Klementina de Abreo-Florino, and Gustavo Zapata
	Final	GIO 0-1 KCM
2nd World Cup of Football, Hertfordshire and Jammbo	Group Stage	GIO 1-0 ALC	Hortensia Purparbone (30')
		GIO 1-0 KUR	Matteo Ventomar (89')
		GIO 1-3 KCM	Giovanni Oliverde-Lastrilla (52')
		GIO 3-3 FJA	Matteo Ventomar (17', 65')
			Lorentio Santo-Ferrari (38')
		GIO 4-1 RSY	Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio (4')
			Gustavo Zapata (45'+1', 61')
			Pietro Takeda (80')
	Round of 16	GIO 1-3 LXA	Pietro Takeda (39')
3rd World Cup of Football, Ryxtylopia	Group Stage	GIO 1-0 TRL	Gustavo Zapata (67')
		GIO 0-2 RSY
		GIO 2-4 KCM	Vittoria Oriastella (23')
			Matteo Ventomar (35')
		GIO ??? UAD	???
		GIO ??? APR	???

Leaderboard:

Name	Goals Scored	Rank
Gustavo Zapata	9	#1
Matteo Ventomar	7	#2
Pietro Takeda	5	#3
Lorentio Santo-Ferrari	3	#4
Regina Horatiano-Viselli
Arabella Viator-Nyima	2	#6
Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio
Klementina de Abreo-Florino
Sergio Feragi Faustiano	1	#9
Giovanni Oliverde-Lastrilla
Kassio Fidustio-Severi
Herbina Gavio Horati
Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli
Hortensia Purparbone
Vittoria Oriastella

(Note: These lists do not include other international matches played by Giovanniland.)

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Hello everyone! Numerio Dellio-Oliverde here to share the latest news about the 3rd World Cup of Football and how well the Giovannilandian team is faring so far. In this report we'll go over the Matchday 3 and also host a special interview with striker Matteo Ventomar.

Matchday 3 - Giovanniland 2-4 Cambria (Halftime: 2-1)
Goals: Vittoria Oriastella (23'), Matteo Ventomar (35')

A lively match happened last Tuesday in the Istadio Rio Blanco, even if ultimately it didn't go our way. The first scoring attempt of the match was from Giovanniland's striker Gustavo Zapata, but it was well defended by the goalkeeper Andrew Meredith. Cambria opened the match in the 15th minute, after many attempts from both sides, but eight minutes after our player Vittoria Oriastella scored to bring the match to a draw again.

The score then continued equal for the next twelve minutes and there were plenty of chances for both teams, until Matteo Ventomar found the right angle from outside the Cambrian defending area and dealt a powerful shot towards the goal that made it in! With perhaps one of the most beautiful goals of the tournament Giovanniland took the lead, a score that held during halftime.

Unfortunately, things went south during the second half. Three minutes after the teams resumed the match (48'), Cambria found their way to their second goal and made the score once more level. On the 70th minute, with the match still at 2-2, Giovanniland's center back Manuella Giakobo committed a grave foul on a Cambrian striker inside the defending area. Therefore, she received a red card and the Cambrians were awarded a penalty, which they promptly converted.

Then, despite being one player down, the Giovannilandian players continued seeking for another goal so that they could rescue a draw, but sadly that was unsuccessful. In the stoppage time of the match, Cambria managed their fourth goal, and the score finished as Giovanniland 2-4 Cambria. Coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare praised the performance of the team against a higher-ranked opponent and hope that Giovanniland can get some points in the last two matches in order to qualify.

This result puts our team at fifth in the group, a position that would lead to elimination if the group stage ended right now. Luckily our team still has two matches, against United Adaikes and then Peourouin, and our opponents Teralyon and Sekiya are not that far ahead, both with four points in comparison to Giovanniland's three points. Now, we'll have the second segment of this report, which is an interview with Matteo Ventomar! We're establishing contact right now with our main correspondent in Ryxtylopia, Giulia Ranio-Margavio, who will be interviewing him.

Numerio: Hello Giulia!

Giulia: Greetings to you and to everyone watching the Football Report! Today we will be interviewing one of the main strikers in the Giovannilandian team. First, feel free to introduce yourself and talk about your history, Matteo!

Matteo: Thank you for the opportunity, I'm glad to be here. My first contact with football was when I was still a very small child, I got interest from watching others play and then began to play with friends in my neighborhood. Some years later, I signed up for the school's football team and due to my prominence there, scouts started to approach me during my teenager years! Eventually, this led me to play in the younger categories of my home city's most famous team, the Arare Andoliavillesi, and thereafter the main squad when the time came.

Giulia: That's a great story! What are some of your famous achievements in your team?

Matteo: During my early years in the under-18 team, our team was one of the strongests in the national under-18 league, a very exciting tournament even if it's lesser known than the main Prima or Sekunda Liga, as well as other events. Then I was promoted to the main team in 1420 after my 18th anniversary, that year the Arare got a strong 2nd place finish in the Prima Liga, which was a great improvement in comparison to previous years!

Of course, I was still learning the ropes of the main team and had more of a supporting role—instead I consider the 1421 tournament a greater success for me when our team won the Prima Liga and I was one of the key players! In the last two years, our performance has slightly dropped with a 3rd and 4th place respectively, however I have faith the Arare are one of the strongest teams in all the country and will for sure attain more championships in the future.

Giulia: Thanks for the answer, I agree that the Arare are a very solid team and one of the mainstays of the Prima Liga. Moving on to international football, what have been your experiences in this different sphere and what do you think of the current WCF?

Matteo: Still during my teenage years I was called a few times for the Giovanniland under-18 team to participate in international competitions, which was also my first chance to visit other countries in the world since my family preferred to do local travel. I had a great experience and football matches!

Now, my first appearance in the main Team Giovanniland was in the I Summer Esferiad of Saint-Josalyn. We went unbeaten through the group stage, defeating Hertfordia 2-1, Cambria (on penalties, after an 1-1 draw) and then Irador 1-0! Afterwards, we proceeded towards the final after winning 2-1 against Fujai on the semifinals, and eventually earned the silver medal after a well fought duel with Nieubasria—one of the most exciting scores for an international game I've ever seen, 6-3. A great finish overall for my first ever international tournament as part of the main team!

It was also a pleasure to play in home soil during the II Summer Esferiad of Quorivo-Kharventhin, the football matches were held in various stadiums in northern Giovaura. That time, in group stage we won 2-0 against Arifiyyah, lost 0-1 to Fujai, and then rebounded with 3-0 and 3-1 wins against Tupmonia and United Adaikes respectively. The knockout stage saw a 1-0 win vs. Dilber and a highly exciting semifinal against our previous opponents Nieubasria, that resulted in a 2-2 draw in regular time and we advanced in penalties. In the final, with a 0-1 defeat to Cambria we repeated our previous placement, and I still hold these two silver medals with a lot of joy.

As for the World Cups of Football, I started representing Giovanniland in the second edition, which happened last year in Hertfordia. Our team had a good group stage last time, winning three matches, drawing one, and also losing one, but unfortunately we had an early exit after losing 1-3 to Larxia in the Round of 16. Now, the situation looks more difficult this year, but I hope that we can still qualify nevertheless.

Giulia: A very detailed answer indeed! Speaking of that, for the last question, which reasons do you think there are for Giovanniland's different histories in Esferiad football and the World Cups so far?

Matteo: That's a difficult question! I honestly don't know for sure, maybe it's the differing atmospheres of each event, for the former it's only one of many events and we are just a few athletes among all the Giovannilandians representing our nation, while in the latter all the world's eyes are set on our team. There's also been differences in the coaches, staff and players, and their skills changing over time, so really it's a different team each international tournament we take part in.

Giulia: I agree, indeed it's a very hard question so thank you for sharing your opinion about it. It's been great to have you here for the interview, so a big thank you once more and good luck both to you on your football career and to Team Giovanniland in the upcoming matches!

Matteo: Of course! Thanks for the invite once more.

Numerio: And with that, we finish the Football Report for today. Make sure to tune in Saturday to watch the Matchday 4 games and listen to another edition of our report afterwards, I'll see you then! 

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Lavender Festival Preparations

Uryde, Lavanda Prima, Giovanniland - Preparations are currently in full force for the end-of-year Lavender Festival, an important celebration in Giovannilandian culture. This event is one of the most important Giovannilandian holidays, along with others like Violet Carnival (no fixed date), with influence from Violetism as well as popular culture; Empire Day (January 16th) about the founding of the Giovannian Empire; Kingdom Day (June 15th) about the transition from the Empire to the modern-day Kingdom; Abrentan Day (August 29th) about the arrival of the Abrentan people in Lavender Island from Saint Mark; and Constitution Day (October 30th) about the nation's current constitution.

The Lavender Festival happens during the week before New Year, starting from December 25th, a reason it's also often considered together with New Year composing its final day. It dates back to the age of the Lavandulan Empire, and archaeological records point to the first edition of this celebration being held around 1100 BF during the reign of Emperor Tsering II. The capital Uryde, at the time known as Lavandula, had prominent lavender fields around it and was thus chosen as the main location for the event. The tradition has passed down generation to generation ever since, from the days of the Lavandulan Empire, then the post-imperial Duchy of Quorivo, and continues to the present day. 

In Giovanniland, the lavender is a symbol of renewal and prosperity, hence the festival's date just before the New Year. However, the date has been changed a number of times because the modern-day calendar of Giovanniland has its origins in the Giovannian Empire and its antecessors in the Abrentan civilization, differing from earlier calendar used in the island. During the Imperial days the celebration was expanded beyond the city of Uryde and started to happen all across the nation, a status then enshrined into law via the Holidays Act of 1253.

The nation celebrates the holiday through various events, such as the planting of lavenders in home gardens some time before December so they can be fully grown by the time of the event, and decoration of houses with lavender bunches and perfumes. Food recipes featuring lavender are also common, such as the famous lavender pasta, cupcakes, tea, and lemonade, among others. Images of various lavender products made in Giovanniland are shown below.

One Win and One Loss for Giovanniland

Ryxenia, Ryxtylopia - The Giovannilandian National Football Team (Esquadra Nationale Giovanniterrana Pedesfere, in Giovannese) has achieved mixed results so far in the 3rd World Cup of Football. The team started strong with a 1-0 win against Teralyon, featuring a goal from striker and captain Gustavo Zapata, and good performances from other players like fellow striker Matteo Ventomar and midfielder Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio, although the latter got injured near the end of the match.

The tables turned on the second matchday when the Giovannilandian side lost 2-0 to the Sekiyans, who got their revenge from the previous edition where our side dealt them a 4-1 win. Augusto's absence affected the midfield and hampered the quality of the team's attack so that threats were not as effective, although luckily he will now return for the match against Cambria.

The coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare has emphasized the need for further alternate plans when key players are missing in the field and increased training in that direction, although only time will tell if his plans will be effective. Team Giovanniland's remaining opponents are Cambria, United Adaikes and Peourouin, and another loss could put the squad in a dire situation, so the fans are hopeful the team wins at least some of these duels.

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Premier League of Football - Giovanniland
Prima Liga de Pedesfera - Giovanniterra

Giovanniland's Premier League of Football is the most famous and prestigious football competition in the country. The tournament takes place yearly from the months of February to November and features the 20 best teams from all across the nation. It is conducted through a double round-robin system, in which each club plays the others twice, once at their home stadium and once at that of their opponents, for a total of 38 games. The tournament has existed for over a century, and is one of the best known Giovannilandian sport tournaments.

Scoring works just like in the Football World Cup, with three points awarded for a win, one for a draw, and none for a loss. Throughout the season, teams are ranked by total points, followed by tie-breaking conditions such as better goal difference, most victories, goals scored, and head to head results. After all games have been played, the team with the most points is crowned the champion of that season, with the use of tie-breaking conditions if needed. The Bellatori Violeti are the most successful team, while the Idre Islamagnesi are the defending champions, having won the 1423 season.  

In addition to the champion team, the second to fourth-placed teams in each season get the chance to play in other prestigious tournaments, including international ones. Meanwhile, the four worst teams are relegated to the Sekunda Liga, replaced by the latter's four best teams that get promoted. Furthermore, a similar system connects the Sekunda Liga with the Tertia Liga, and the Tertia with lower levels of national competitions, as well as regional ones. The results of this 1423 season, which has ended earlier this month, are displayed below.

#	Team	Home Region	Home Stadium	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts
1	Idre Islamagnesi	Altana	Stadio Insulare	21	10	7	69	40	+29	73
2	Quire Quorivane	Lavanda Prima	Arena Lidoborana	20	11	7	71	49	+22	71
3	Bellatori Violeti	Primolido	Stadio La Violeta	19	11	8	59	42	+17	68
4	Arare Andoliavillesi	Lido Flavi	Andoliarena	20	6	12	55	44	+11	66
5	Gavie Giovanniane	Giovannia Magna	Arena Giovanni II	18	11	9	49	43	+6	65
6	Unio Villaflorana	Terra Violeta	Kampo Florito	17	11	10	58	45	+13	62
7	Magna d'Abrentopole	Abrenaustro	Arena Respublika	16	11	11	55	53	+2	59
8	Apie Annavillesi	Primolido	Stadio Avventi	14	14	10	60	50	+10	56
9	Vipre Vinikiane	Giovannia Magna	Stadio Vallettore	14	14	10	47	40	+7	56
10	Uryde Pedesfera	Lavanda Prima	Stadio Abreo-Florino	14	10	14	48	53	-5	52
11	Pavoni Portovinesi	Abrenosto	Arena Pietro I	12	12	14	51	50	+1	48
12	Lavande Giovanniterrane	Lavanda Sekunda	Kampo Lavando	12	9	17	46	55	-9	45
13	La Montemoresa	Akallia	Arena Ferdira Magna	10	15	13	60	60	0	45
14	Gioseppole Pedesfera	Vallemuni	Stadio Mirable	10	13	15	51	48	+3	43
15	Kani Karlopolesi	Abrenosto	Arena Karlo II	10	12	16	39	49	-10	41
16	Esquadra Valli	Feragia	Stadio Nenofriano	9	12	17	41	50	-9	39
17	Ballene Bayabellane	Altana	Kampo Marino	10	9	19	49	62	-13	39
18	Felini Favoniani	Giovannia Magna	Arena Fabio Linare	10	6	22	56	74	-18	36
19	Oliverde Pedesfera	Spandorto	Stadio Flumini	8	11	19	45	69	-24	35
20	Esquadra Serena	Verdiante	Stadio Segete	8	8	22	35	68	-33	32

Legend: Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals For | Goals Against | Goal Difference | Points Total

Furthermore, the four teams that ranked highest in the 1423 season of the Sekunda Liga and will therefore participate in the next edition of the Prima Liga are now also known. They are the first place Leoni Lavanduli, from Lavanda Prima; second place Falkoni Flaviopolesi, from Lido Flavi; third place Anguille Amorantane, from Primolido; and fourth place La Vivaquana, from Lido Flavi. 

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Hello Giovanniland—I am Numerio Dellio-Oliverde, the new host of the Giovannilandian Sports Report and of its special football edition! This programs aims to keep the people of Giovanniland informed of the latest happenings of the 3rd World Cup of Football, and we'll be covering the results of the first two matches played by our football team and how they went.

Matchday 1 - Giovanniland 1-0 Teralyon (Halftime: 0-0)
Goals: Gustavo Zapata (67')

For our first game of the 3rd World Cup, our side played against the Teralyian team, and it was a fierce match with good performance from both teams! For the entirety of the match it was an open game with chances for both Giovanniland and Teralyon, though during the first half no goal happened. Giovannilandian players such as the striker trio of Gustavo Zapata, Klementina de Abreo-Florino, and Matteo Ventomar assisted each other in several attempts—including one by Matteo that hit one of the goalposts and made thousands of viewers nearly scream 'goal!' until realizing they would have to save it for later. 

During the second half, coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare decided to switch to a different formation, and it worked perfectly! The midfield players Gabriella Orfeo and Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio rose to the spotlight during this half, and it was the team work started by them that allowed the team captain and star striker Gustavo Zapata to finally send the ball to the net past the Teralyian goalkeeper. The Giovannilandian crowd in Istadio Raquivas cheered, and the game continued just as lively as the atmosphere in the stadium was at the time. In fact, there was a little confusion between players of the two teams in the middle of the 2nd half, slightly after the goal, but all went well until the end and the Esquadra Nationale held their advantage to earn its first 3 points.

Matchday 2 - Sekiya 2-0 Giovanniland (Halftime: 0-0)

In a rematch of the previous World Cup, the teams of Giovanniland and Sekiya once more were drawn into Group B (the same can be said for Cambria as well, which will be Giovanniland's Matchday 3 opponent). Last time, Giovanniland won 4-1 against the Nuran team, but unfortunately this time it was a different story. An improved and very defensive Sekiyan team was enough to stop any attempts from Giovanniland of scoring throughout the first half, although there were good attempts to score by striker Matteo Ventomar and also midfielder Giovanni-Pietro Lamontana, who replaced Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio because of an injury.

In the start of the second half, both defenses continued very solid and the scoring attempts from both sides also continued. Unfortunately, the lack of Giustiniano hampered coordination in the midfield, so that the Giovannilandians attacks were not as effective as in the previous match. In one of these attempts, a failure in the defensive area meant that a deadly counterattack from Sekiya came through, led by their center forward Sūn Tíng who scored their first goal at the 75th minute.

Although Giovanniland tried some last-minute ways of turning the tables, all that came in the dying minutes of the match was another Sekiyan goal from their attacking midfielder Chén Huá, at minute 84. Captain Gustavo Zapata commented that the opponents' performance was very impressive and respected the Sekiyan team. He also hopes that Augusto can recover from his injury and come back after this match for the duel with Cambria.

In Group B, Cambria has been leading the group with six points, first defeating Peourouin in an electric 4-3 match and now winning against fellow Polari team United Adaikes 2-0. Then, there are four teams with three points! The Sekiyans and Teralyians are tied in second place with one win and one loss each, both having recovered from losses in the first matchday, while us and the Adaikesians have gone in the opposite direction and share the fourth place. Last but not least, the Peouroun team sits at last in the group without any points, although there's still time for them to reverse the course and shine in upcoming matches! 

All in all, two very interesting matchdays—and soon, we'll have a special interview with our young striker Matteo Ventomar and his experiences in international football so far! Stay tuned for that and for further matchday reports coming soon.

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Ardala Khanate
An article from the Lavender Encyclopedia | Choose a different language

The Ardala Khanate's extent during its peak in the 7th century.

Status: Khanate
Capital: Altan-qota (Golden City)
Common Languages: Ardalan, Ulergean, Emunean, Beremean and others
Demonym: Ardalan
Area: circa 195,000 km² (7th century)
Population: est. 3 million (7th century)

The Ardala Khanate (Classical Ardalan: ᠠᠷᠠᠳ ᠳᠠᠯᠠᠢ ᠶᠢᠨ ᠬᠠᠨᠲᠠ ᠤᠯᠤᠰ, Modern Ardalan: ardalain khaant uls; Giovannese: Kanato de Ardala) was a medieval state in northern Andolia. Founded after a civil war that brought down its predecessor, the Ulerge Khanate, this polity achieved a never seen before size for a country in the region, bringing many different peoples under its control during its centuries-long history. Starting from the Ardalan homeland in modern-day northeastern Giovandolia, the khanate conquered its southern Ulerge neighbors during the civil war with the help of the ancient Bereme people to the west, after crafting an alliance with the latter.

The khanate achieved its peak in the 5th to 7th centuries AF, after expanding to the other side of the large Andolian mountain chain and establishing contact with the Emüne people who became a tributary, as well as performing a significant territorial expansion to the east of the Nia River, annexing lands in modern western Fhaengshia. In the 8th century AF, amid a succession war, the khanate was eventually annexed by the rising Giovannian Empire.

Background & Rise

The Ardala and Ulerge people share an origin, both being descendants of the Northern Boreandolian people that were formerly united but eventually separated under foreign domination. After their independence, both peoples started building their own cities and polities, separated by the large Boriorto Mountains, and eventually reestablishing contact following some centuries.

The Ulerge people eventually united under a single Khanate in the 1st century BF and soon expanded northwards to annex the Ardalan Confederation, a league of city-states. This polity would also incorporate the Bereme people to the west soon after, but owing to its khans' authoritarianism and mismanagement of the military, turmoil soon started in the 3rd century AF. Both the Ardala and Bereme people rose up to start a civil war, and soon after forged an alliance to help each other, in which the Ardala would form a khanate of their own and the Bereme would enjoy more autonomy.

The alliance won the civil war in 283 AF, the date the Ardala Khanate was founded, and the alliance's leader Erdene (ruled 283-312 AF) became its first khan. By 301 AF, it also unified the Bereme remnants that were opposed to the alliance and wanted to stay independent, and for the remainder of his rule Erdeni Khan focused on stabilizing the newly-founded state. Subsequent rulers, such as Jargal Khan (ruled 312-330 AF) and Mandakh Khan (ruled 355-363 AF), also enacted important policies to improve the inhabitants' quality of life and strengthen the military.

Expansion & Peak

Starting from the reign of Tsinua Khan (ruled 397-429 AF), the Ardala Khanate started to expand beyond its initial lands. To the west, expansion reached the border now known as the modern northwestern border of Giovandolia, and to the south, the vast mountains were crossed during the rule of Tsinua's son Ilalta Khan (ruled 429-444 AF). In 456 AF during the reign of Aldar Khan (ruled 449-470 AF), the Emüne people were made a tributary of the Ardala Khanate, and many of their upper classes were enlisted as advisors to the khans due to their reputation as skilled people.

During the 6th century the khanate reached its maximum territorial extent. The longest reigning ruler Ulaghan Khan (ruled 521-565 AF), followed by his younger brother Zorigt Khan (ruled 565-581 AF), conducted the great expansion to the east, beyond the Nia River that marks parts of the modern Giovanniland-Fhaengshia border. These lands were then added to the khanate, which by then had achieved regional fame among other peoples. Trade with neighboring peoples was extensive, and in the 7th century the newly-unified Giovannese also started conducting trade. Rulers of this century decided to maintain the current territory and focus on increasing the khanate's wealth and strength, most notably Elbeg Khan (ruled 623-655 AF).

Fall

The last two ruler of the empire were Khürel Khan (ruled 698-714 AF) and Ochir Khan (ruled 714-722 AF), who returned to an expansionist policy after the previous few rulers focused on consolidating the territory. Although Khürel achieved initial success in his campaigns, these advances were reversed under Ochir, and the khan also suffered greatly when his son Namar was killed in battle. Ochir fell ill shortly after and died heirless, with various members of the royal family then attempting to take control of the khanate.

The Giovannian Empire took advantage from the situation, establishing some of its first settlements such as Forte Giovanni (modern Islamagna) and Andoliavilla in the islands and coastal lands taken from the khanate. The strongest pretender to the throne, Naran, was imprisoned and killed during the Siege of Altan-qota, after which the Giovannian Empire went on to conquer the rest of the khanate. Resistance would continue in the southern mountains for a few decades, before eventually ending after the death of the last local ruler Daichin Khan.

[Hall of Nations Application]

@Rhamenia accepted!

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Giovanniland's Football Team Arrives in Ryxtylopia

Ryxenia, Ryxtylopia - The Giovannilandian National Football Team (Esquadra Nationale Giovanniterrana Pedesfere, in Giovannese) has arrived at the Ryxtylopian capital city for the start of the 3rd World Cup of Football. The 33-player strong team will be playing in Group B for the group stage, together with Cambria, United Adaikes, and Teralyon from Polaris, the latter of which the Giovannilandians will meet on the first matchday, as well as the Nuran nations of Sekiya and Peourouin.

The national team has seen many changes since the last edition of the World Cup, most notably Gustavo Zapata replacing Lorentio Santo-Ferrari as team captain. Gustavo scored goals for Giovanniland in the two previous World Cup, and also led the nation's football in the past Summer Esferiads, being the leader in goals and assistances while being a key contributor to Giovanniland's two silver medals in Saint-Josalyn and then Quorivo-Kharventhin. Interviewed about his expectations for the upcoming World Cup by the Nuntikarta, Gustavo replied he hopes that Giovanniland can surpass its previous record of the Round of 16.

1423 Chess Championship Near

Sonserina, Akallia, Giovanniland - While most of the world is currently focused on the 3rd World Cup of Football happening in Ryxtylopia, many in Giovanniland are also looking forward to one of the nation's most famous competitions. The 1423 Giovanniland Chess Championship is slated to happen in December of this year, and preparations are finishing while the regional competitions host their last matches to decide which chess players will participate in this grand national event.

Chess is one of the leading sports of Giovanniland, available since childhood in most schools as an option for those who are not very skilled in physical sports, and this event that has happened yearly since 1354 usually earns recognition from the nation's prime minister. The current holder of the position, Elisa Anario-Silva, has already confirmed her visit to the event, and this year the Chess Championship promises to be even more special since it will end as the Lavender Festival starts, which is a national celebration of the new year.

Fourty participants will be participating in the event, these places having been divided into places for each region allocated in proportion to regional population, aside from one spot automatically reserved for the defending champion, Guillermo Uryde-Amorino from Primolido, which has won the last two editions. Several notable players from the past editions have already qualified, including but not limited to Giovanni Amdo-Gyasso and Raffella Quadrigaro from Giovannia Magna, Vittor Nyima-Lyamo from Altana, as well as Lavanda Rosetta-Lyra and Karlo Neurino-Sousa from Lavanda Prima.

Economy of Giovanniland Continues Strong

Giovannia Capital City, Giovanniland - The Giovannilandian economy finishes another month in a strong position, maintaining its place as the fourth largest economy of Esferos and also keeping the nation's place among the world's highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita values. Giovanniland's GDP PPP is valued at $1,406,647,221,920 while the per capita index is at $48,000, with the highest contribution coming from the tertiary or services sector, followed by the secondary or industrial sector and at last the primary sector.

The tertiary sectors accounts for 72% of the national economy, with significant participation from the trading, finances, and tourism areas. An example is banking, with the nation's leading banks known internationally for their secure systems and lower taxes, although the government receives a fee to ensure the sector's strength and there are also mechanisms to avoid illegal money deposits. Eco-tourism has also seen continued growth, as the nation's environmental policies ensure that visitors can experience lands as diverse as the rainforests of northern Lavender Island to the southern Giovandolian Mountains.

Meanwhile, the secondary sector contributes to 26.5% of the national GDP and is very diverse. The technological industry is headed in the Primolido and Altana regions, in Aura and Andolia respectively, and retains its place among the nation's spotlights due to its high advancement. The food industry, strongest in the Abrenosto region, has also seen a notable increase ahead of the end of year celebrations, when many in the nation hold special events and several cities also brace for significant tourism. On the other hand, the retail and automobile industries were among those marking a slight decrease, although it is hoped this will be overcome soon.

Finally, despite its far smaller contribution of 1.5% to the economy and a retraction this month, the primary sector maintains its importance as the basis for many of the nation's more advanced exports. Due to its tropical location, Giovanniland is a significant producer of a variety of crops, including but not limted to bananas, coconuts, papayas, cassava, cocoa, coffee, rice, sweet potato, and tea. Mining operations also continue, especially in the Spandorto and Kordelleria regions, although mindful of the nation's environmental regulations.

[World Cup of Football III [rosters, roleplays, results]]

Giovannilandian National Football Team
Esquadra Nationale Giovanniterrana Pedesfere

Background:

Football, called pedesfera in Giovannese (from 'pede' meaning foot and 'sfera' meaning ball or sphere), is one of the most popular sports in the nation, alongside other common sports such as volleyball, rugby, and chess. Giovanniland has several notable teams competing in the nation's upper leagues that get millions of fans every year, such as the Bellatori Violeti (Warriors), the Quire Quorivane (Spears), the Arare Andoliavillesi (Macaws) and the Gavie Giovanniane (Hawks). These and other teams make up the Prima Liga with a total of 20 participants, the four highest getting the chance to play international tournaments while the four lowest are relegated to the Sekunda Liga, which has a similar system of promotions to the Prima Liga and relegations to the Tertia Liga.

Style mod: +2
Stadium: Arena Abrentana, Giovannia
Manager: Teresa Albavetta
Coach: Hettor Ottavio-Linare

Starting XI:

Name	Age	Position	Home City
Sergio Pradobeno-Turri	26	Goalkeeper	Andoliavilla
Tiberio Nyima-Zutrino	21	Center Back	Uryde
Manuella Giakobo	28	Center Back	Porto Violeto
Onofrio Kalvente-Amafini	24	Left Outside Back	Nenofre
Vittoria Oriastella	25	Right Outside Back	Islamagna
Lorentio Santo-Ferrari	29	Defending Midfield	Annavilla
Gabriella Orfeo	27	Center Midfield	Amorante
Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio	21	Attacking Midfield	Abrentopole
Gustavo Zapata (C)	22	Striker	Giovannia
Klementina de Abreo-Florino	23	Striker	Quorivo
Matteo Ventomar	21	Striker	Andoliavilla

Reserve Players:

Name	Age	Position	Home City
Mariano Aqualta Voluseno	23	Goalkeeper	Lunoddo
Amanda Savora	27	Goalkeeper	Abrentopole
Sandra Persona-Fonti	20	Center Back	Karlopole
Valentino Rustikellio	25	Center Back	Bayabella
Margerita Desnia Aristo	23	Center Back	Villaflori
Teodoro Sonserina	21	Center Back	Kastellavando
Giuno Linare-Talisio	26	Left Outside Back	Flaviopole
Gioseppe Offerio-Apustio	27	Left Outside Back	Annavilla
Tadeo Gyasso	23	Right Outside Back	Giovannia
Sergio Feragi Faustiano	24	Right Outside Back	Porto Violeto
Erasmo Vedio-Sabidio	30	Defending Midfield	Vinikiana
Liana Arboreto Amorante	25	Defending Midfield	Dazano
Nikolo Veranio	27	Center Midfield	Gioseppole
Mara Erdene-Aruna	19	Center Midfield	Potestana
Giovanni-Pietro Lamontana	21	Attacking Midfield	Portovini
Hortensia Purparbone	24	Attacking Midfield	Uryde
Mariana Lavandula-Savora	28	Striker	Porto Violeto
Tarutio Lukulli	19	Striker	Giovannia
Aurelio Duvina	21	Striker	Karlopole
Emilia Artena-Lurtone	25	Striker	Ferdira
Terentio Ugyeno	23	Striker	Nova Lavanda
Giordana Gavio-Akronio	22	Striker	Salvoregno

Jerseys:

If my opponent RPs first, they may...
Injure my players: no
Assign my players yellow cards: yes
Assign my players red cards: yes
Godmod injuries: no
Godmod scoring: no
Godmod other events: no

[TWPChooses #35]

Pick your choice and discuss below!

[Hall of Nations Application]

To keep track of things: Isachile Tum, 4WeekOldToast, Reçueçn and Ashye have all been accepted! 

 

[Hello!!]

Welcome! I'm the TWP ambassador to Europeia as you might know.

[Hall of Nations Application]

@FunFan05 rejected, and @Reshaub is no longer in TWP so also rejected.

[World Cup of Football III Signups & OOC Thread]

Giovanniland signs up!

[Hall of Nations Application]

@Olegna01 you have not posted the Citizenship Oath, please do it so your application can be reviewed. 

[TWPChooses #34]

As Halloween approaches, we continue with the spooky theme, so make sure to pick a choice and discuss!

[Hall of Nations Application]

@Alliss @Republic of Artago @WanD @GhostReacher accepted! (two days ago)

@Bynarea Denied.

[The Mapplication™ Thread - Join the world of Esferos!]

@GhostReacher you should also apply for Hall of Nations citizenship to be eligible to join the map. (I see you've applied to join TWPAF and the Map, this is a different one).

 

[Hall of Nations Application]

@Lucas Accepted!

[TWPChooses #33]

Although spending the night on the house could be interesting (and also quite spooky), I think I'd enjoy more the graveyard walk. There's something about it that seems attractive - maybe it's the feeling of enjoying the quietness, or the fact I don't mind staying up late.