Giovanniland

Culinary Groups
Sekiya has 6 main culinary groups, each with similarities and differences that you will discover as you follow along with these recipes. Each recipe will be from one of the food groups mentioned below.

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

Hello all
I was around some years ago, apparently about 8 years ago, genuinely curiously about what's happened since.
How's it going?
IH
EDIT: Bizarre to see that the last posts I made were in 2014 given how much time was spent on NS and these forums.

Recommendations for the Final Matches - Nieubasria vs Cambria and Dalimbar vs Arifiyyah
 

 
The Finale of the Third World Cup of Football, happening in Ryxtylopia in 1423 will see defending champions Nieubasria attempt to win the title for the third straight time in a row, against opponents from the same continent: Cambria, who will go for their first ever Football World Cup win after finishing in third in both the previous editions of the tournament.
But now with the Cambrians having surpassed the semi finals, after defeating the last non-polarii team: Arifiyyah, they hope to be able to win the world cup, whilst Nieubasria come off strong after defeating Dalimbar.
This match promises to be an intense and memorable one, and one of the teams will crown themselves champions of the footballing world for the next year, whilst the sport is the reason we all gather here for this day, there are also recommendations that the Ryxtylopian Government would like to make for tourists going to the game.
 
As well as this, audiences will also be able to watch the match for the bronze medal (or third place), between Polarii team: Dalimbar and Auran team Arifiyyah, Both teams had a good tournament despite Dalimbar struggling in the group stage, whilst Ariffiyah is one of the previous finalists, whilst their team failed to make the final, they still have a shot at to take home the bronze.
 
Where will the games happen?
 
Nieubasria vs Cambria:
The Finale between Nieubasria and Cambria will take place in the Istadio Franco Rivalda, also known as "Il Colosso" (The Colossus) home of the Ryxtylopian National Team, as well as Club Atletico Rio Priava. This stadium is the largest in Ryxtylopia and one of the largest in all of Aura, with a capacity of 81,500 spectators, its an old but recently modernized complex that has seen several of the greatest moments not only in ryxtylopian club football, but also at an international level.
The stadium has many seating areas to choose from, and it has screens for areas with harders views, which will provide live coverage from the game, as well as zoom into the most exciting moments of the game.
 

 
With that said, transport to the venue will be provided in the Ryxenia area, many hotels having already bundled it with their offers, if having purchased a bundle isn't the case for the consumer, the price to pay is relativley cheap by most standards, considering theese busses have been chartered by the ryxtylopian government, as well as this taxis and other private transport options are available.
When it comes to food and drink, the Rivalda's large hallways surrounding the stadium have plenty of stands willing to sell many options of both fast and traditional food at cheap prices, drinks; mainly soda and alcoholic beverages are also available, as well as this; snacks can be bought by vendors wandering the stands, again at cheap prices.
The stadium does include some other facilities, mainly the bathrooms, parking lot, and for the private boxes there's service to get your food delivered straight to your location, as well as a TV to give you company.
 
 
The Rivalda is Subdivided into 4 stands: Raixas, Bravaino, Esquirriva and Saivilla, and theese are subdivided again into upper, mid, and lower sections, with each stand having retractable fences to separate fans from each team; however due to the low risk involved in this match theese fences won't be raised but its still not recommended to wander off your assigned area.
 

 
 
When it comes to entrances, the Rivalda has 3 large entrances, and several other emergency exits with clear signs indicating where to head to in the case of an emergency. The 3 entrances are: the Main Entrance, the West Entrance and the East Entrance.
All entrances will be opened to all fans, however we recommend fans of the home to enter through the West Entrance, and fans of the Visiting side to enter throught the East entrance.
 

 
Dalimbar vs Arifiyyah:
The game for 3rd place between Dalimbar and Arifiyyah will take place in the Istadio Gral. Tavarra Dipartí, in the city of Vynitiná, home of the Diportivo Unido di Vynitiná and with a capacity of 67,745 spectators, the complex is a bit old, but for the world cup it received a new paint job and its ready to receive the teams that will battle it out to take home the Bronze.
 

 
The stadium isn't located near many hotels and public spaces, but its well connected to the city center through public transport and the metro; like in the Rivalda's case temporary bus routes have been set to shuffle passangers to the stadium for the game.
Like in the Rivalda, food and drinks can be found in stands outside the stadium or with vendors, as well as this it has functional facilities, and a nearby parking lot.
For this game around 2/3 of the stadium's capacity has been reserved for Ariffiyah fans due to the proximity factor, the ammount of Ariffiyah supporters is expected to be quite high, if the Dalimbari fans dont fill the other seats, extra capacity will be available.
The Dipartí is divided into 4 stands: Arvailas, Caraviallas, Gral. Divirca and Fortín. Fortín and Caraviallas are smaller stands with only one level, whilst the other two are bigger in comparison having more floors and capacity for more spectators, fences to separate fans are in the stadium, but for this game its most likley they wont be used; however we still recommend to not wander off your assigned area once the game starts.
 

 
The stadium has 3 Entrances, one in the north, one in the south and one on the west side, Dalimbar supporters will enter through the west Entrance, Arifiyyah supporters through the south entrance, while the North entrance will be open for supporters of both sides.
 

 
 
The Rules
For a successful and peaceful games to take place, there have to be rules most focused around what you can and cannot bring into the stadiums, for this we have divided items into allowed and not allowed in the next segment:
 
ALLOWED:
Flags.
Banners.
Bevarages Contained in plastic bottles.
Food and Snacks.
Musical Instruments
 
NOT ALLOWED:
Pets.
Weapons or Sharp Objects.
Drones.
Lasers.
Microphones or Loudspeakers.
Glass Bottles.
Smoke Bombs or Flares.
 
 
The Schedule:
(only applies to the Gold Medal Match)
 
Before the game, people will be expected to get to their assigned locations and seats.
And hour before the game, a band from the ryxtylopian military will show up, to perform local music, as well as this brief exposees of culture will happen to entretain guests.
Right before the game both teams will walk into the pitch, this will be followed by the playing of the National Anthem of the Ryxtylopian Federation, as well as the anthems of both the participating teams.
After this the game will start and is expected to last around 95 minutes, with the present possibility of extra time being added, or even going to penalties.
After the game a stage will be set for the winning team within the pitch, the awards ceremony will begin before the winning team takes up stage and lifts the trophy.
Finally a fireworks display will take place at the stadium.
Theese events will mark the official end of the tournament.
 
 
Those are the recommendations we give to everybody with the intent of attending the game to follow, this game will be one of the games of the century, and we expect both teams to give it their best and to give us their best moments to remember and hopefully remember this world cup as one of - if not the best edition of the tournament to ever happen!

OUTRAGE AT TV DEBATE
Anders Merken Causes Outrage At National TV Debate
As a general election looms in the new year we have got used to seeing weekly debates from politicians across the political spectrum on our screens on a Wednesday evening. These are traditionally subdued, respectful and in all honesty a tiny bit dull. However the rulebook was not only thrown out the window by Anders Merken of the People for Justice Party last night, you could argue he lit it on fire. Merken is a self described "warrior of the people" hailing from Haede Fysla. His appearances on radio and in interviews with other media across the country have led to a mjaority of the population and his opponents label him a right wing populist who seeks to shock audiences with blatantly crass and ill informed opinions such as when he said that the reason for decline in support of the royal family was due to "that lot coming over in boat loads" (he did not elaborate on who that lot were). His policies of limiting immigration and protecting "Ageran national culture" have hit a chord in the rural lowland belt area and in the generally mmore conservative south and northeast of the country. 
Last night's debate contained all of the major Ageran political party leaders who were quickly overshadowed by Merken's loud cries directed at the Land Party's Árnur Darrúe from across the studio of "Traitor" and "Burn in hell you disgrace" were not popular with the studio audience or the national broadcaster ARC's veteran journalist Kata Orósun as Merken did not apear following the advertisement break in the middle of the debate. Merken has since gone to tabloids in Morvik claiming his freedom of speech has been curtailed by the ARC describing it as a "government mouthpiece".
This instance may sound tame to outsiders but in the ususally civil world of Ageran politics this presents a worrying and uncharted new territory with the 1424 election shaping up to be one of the most interesting in recent memory.
NEW ADDITION TO MORVIK HARBOUR CAUSES CONTROVERSY
Some are left unhappy with the design of Morvik's new national theatre which sits on it's historic harbour front
Morvik harbour has a new addition and it is not popular with certain parts of the city's populace. Amongst the old grey and brown stone buildings lining the harbour and the city's famous green cathedral lies a modern glass and steel national theatre which some are calling an eyesore. Member of the Dhiringúr for Morvik south stated that "The new 
national theatre was much needed but it should have respected the already existing ancient architecture and not done it's best to completely erode it's beauty" others such as resident Ána Leathernen of Óravangúr Street just one mile away from the new theatre had a more positive reaction "It breathes new life into the city and gives the harbour a new lease of life I think it's wonderful". 
Whatever your opinion on the new national theatre may be it is doubtless, yes doubtless that it is an exciting and much needed addition no matter what it looks like.

Система аварийного оповещения / Emergency Alert System
Вещательный диапазон: Порт-Айна / Broadcast Range: Port Ain
Внимание! / Attention!
Внимание! / Attention!
Внимание! / Attention!
Внимание! / Attention!
Порт Айна заблокирован до дальнейшего уведомления. / Port Ain is under lockdown until further notice.
Пожалуйста, оставайтесь в своих домах. Не выходите на улицу. / Please remain in your homes. Do not go outside.
Порт Айна заблокирован до дальнейшего уведомления. / Port Ain is under lockdown until further notice.
Пожалуйста, оставайтесь в своих домах. Не выходите на улицу. / Please remain in your homes. Do not go outside.
Вооруженные группы атакуют следующие объекты: Атомная электростанция Порт-Айна; Командный центр Порт-Айна; Таганский Торговый Центр; ФСТВ Порт-Айна. / Armed groups are attacking the following locations: Port Ain Nuclear Power Station; Port Ain Command Centre; Tagansky Shopping Centre; FSTV Port Ain.
Вооруженные группы атакуют следующие объекты: Атомная электростанция Порт-Айна; Командный центр Порт-Айна; Таганский Торговый Центр; ФСТВ Порт-Айна. / Armed groups are attacking the following locations: Port Ain Nuclear Power Station; Port Ain Command Centre; Tagansky Shopping Centre; FSTV Port Ain.
Не покидайте свой дом, пока не даст разрешение! / Do not leave your house until given clearance!
Слава Далимбар! / Glory to Dalimbar!

Warning - body horror
 

AADLIVALVE   -      -   NOBILITYWATCH
Tales of Monarchy's Enduring Appeal (Part 12)
COLUMN - DECEMBER 5, 1423
In a world that often seems to embrace change at breakneck speed, some traditions stand as timeless pillars, capturing the hearts and imaginations of the people. Among these enduring traditions is the institution of monarchy, where tales of regal splendor, unwavering duty, and the charm of royal personalities continue to weave a narrative that crosses generations.
In this column, we embark on a journey through the lens of ardent admirers and staunch monarchists who find solace, inspiration, and connection in the stories of royal families. Each week, we delve into the personal narratives of those who have dedicated themselves to preserving and cherishing the age-old traditions of monarchy.
From grandiose ceremonies to the subtle nuances of royal interactions, we'll explore the multifaceted appeal of the royal house of the current Prince. Whether it's the captivating allure of a coronation, the timeless elegance of a tiara, or the profound sense of duty exemplified by monarchs, these stories will illuminate the reasons behind the unwavering passion of those who continue to champion the cause of monarchy.
Join us as we navigate history, peeking into the lives of individuals who proudly wear their admiration for royalty as a badge of honor. This is not just a collection of stories; it's a celebration of the enduring charm and significance of monarchy in the hearts of its devotees. So, sit back, pour yourself a cup of tea, and reminisce with our featured submitter. 
Elaine Qu, 56, Fort Ingor
 
 

Hello everyone! I am Numerio Dellio-Oliverde, host of the special Football Report that is taking place during the 3rd World Cup of Football. Today we'll talk about the round of 16 game against Nieubasria, which sadly resulted in elimination for the Giovannilandian team, as well as expectations for the next world cup. 
Round of 16: Giovanniland 1-3 Nieubasria (Halftime: 1-1)
Goals: Vittoria Oriastella (28')
The players of Team Giovanniland started the game with confidence against Nieubasria, knowing the challenge ahead of playing against the defending champions. The team played more defensively than before, with the striker Klementina de Abreo-Florino giving the way to another defender, the experienced Gioseppe Offerio-Apustio. Through most of the first half this strategy worked, although it was also nailbiting to watch for any Giovannilandian: the ball spent more time in our defensive half than the attacking one, with the team getting its scoring attempts mostly from counterattacks.
In one of these attempts, Vittoria Oriastella successfully found her way to a good angle to shoot the ball, receiving the ball from former captain Lorentio Santo-Ferrari, and scored, to the surprise of the Basric team. Giovanniland would then hold the advantage for most of the remaining time in the first half, however Nieubasria's striker Camdyn Cartwrighte dealt a blow to Giovannilandian morale when the carefully set up defense was bypassed by him just before the first half ended, on minute three of stoppage time.
In the second half, Team Giovanniland continued with a similar formation to the first half, hoping that they would be able to mount a similar counterattack to the previous one that led to the goal. In fact the team did, with good attempts from Gabriella Orfeo and Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio, the latter of which required a stellar defense from Nieubasria's goalkeeper Dalton Fairburne to stop, but overall the success was not to be repeated since the Basric defense improved after the first and ultimately only goal from Giovanniland.
As time progressed, the goal to break the even score was eventually scored by the striker Zedh Coreia from Nieubasria at the 65th minute, and the defending champions further added to their score near the end of the match through a 83th minute goal by Landan Aylmere, unfortunately denying the Giovannilandians any chance at a comeback.
Our team was then eliminated from the competition, curiously the third time this happens just at the round of 16 and with a score of 3-1 for the opposing team, dubbed 'The 3-1 Curse' by fans. The coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare expressed their commiserations at the result and the fact the goal of surpassing this stage did not come to fruition, but also lauded the team for playing to the best of its ability against the top team in the world. Gustavo Zapata, the new captain, also commented that due to the big changes taken in the team since the last world cup this new roster is very much still adapting itself, and over time he expects that it will be stronger.
With these results, we at the Football Report have updated the scoring leaderboard one last time for the foreseeable future! The newcomer to the Esquadra Nationale, Vittoria Oriastella, has proven her place as one of the rising stars of the national football, scoring two goals in this World Cup, while at the top we have famous strikers like the captain Gustavo Zapata and the young star Matteo Ventomar.
Name Goals Scored Rank Gustavo Zapata 9 #1 Matteo Ventomar 8 #2 Pietro Takeda 5 #3 Lorentio Santo-Ferrari 4 #4 Regina Horatiano-Viselli 3 #5 Arabella Viator-Nyima 2 #6 Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio Klementina de Abreo-Florino Vittoria Oriastella Sergio Feragi Faustiano 1 #10 Giovanni Oliverde-Lastrilla Kassio Fidustio-Severi Herbina Gavio Horati Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli Hortensia Purparbone That is all from us today! Although our team has been eliminated, continue watching this channel because we will continue displaying further matches from the 3rd World Cup of Football. I hope to see you there, and I also make an invite to all viewers to stay tuned for our upcoming Chess Report that will cover all happenings from the 1423 Giovanniland Chess Championship, starting today in the city of Sonserina!

Hello everyone! I am Numerio Dellio-Oliverde, host of the special Football Report that is taking place during the 3rd World Cup of Football. Today we'll talk about the round of 16 game against Nieubasria, which sadly resulted in elimination for the Giovannilandian team, as well as expectations for the next world cup. 
Round of 16: Giovanniland 1-3 Nieubasria (Halftime: 1-1)
Goals: Vittoria Oriastella (28')
The players of Team Giovanniland started the game with confidence against Nieubasria, knowing the challenge ahead of playing against the defending champions. The team played more defensively than before, with the striker Klementina de Abreo-Florino giving the way to another defender, the experienced Gioseppe Offerio-Apustio. Through most of the first half this strategy worked, although it was also nailbiting to watch for any Giovannilandian: the ball spent more time in our defensive half than the attacking one, with the team getting its scoring attempts mostly from counterattacks.
In one of these attempts, Vittoria Oriastella successfully found her way to a good angle to shoot the ball, receiving the ball from former captain Lorentio Santo-Ferrari, and scored, to the surprise of the Basric team. Giovanniland would then hold the advantage for most of the remaining time in the first half, however Nieubasria's striker Camdyn Cartwrighte dealt a blow to Giovannilandian morale when the carefully set up defense was bypassed by him just before the first half ended, on minute three of stoppage time.
In the second half, Team Giovanniland continued with a similar formation to the first half, hoping that they would be able to mount a similar counterattack to the previous one that led to the goal. In fact the team did, with good attempts from Gabriella Orfeo and Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio, the latter of which required a stellar defense from Nieubasria's goalkeeper Dalton Fairburne to stop, but overall the success was not to be repeated since the Basric defense improved after the first and ultimately only goal from Giovanniland.
As time progressed, the goal to break the even score was eventually scored by the striker Zedh Coreia from Nieubasria at the 65th minute, and the defending champions further added to their score near the end of the match through a 83th minute goal by Landan Aylmere, unfortunately denying the Giovannilandians any chance at a comeback.
Our team was then eliminated from the competition, curiously the third time this happens just at the round of 16 and with a score of 3-1 for the opposing team, dubbed 'The 3-1 Curse' by fans. The coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare expressed their commiserations at the result and the fact the goal of surpassing this stage did not come to fruition, but also lauded the team for playing to the best of its ability against the top team in the world. Gustavo Zapata, the new captain, also commented that due to the big changes taken in the team since the last world cup this new roster is very much still adapting itself, and over time he expects that it will be stronger.
With these results, we at the Football Report have updated the scoring leaderboard one last time for the foreseeable future! The newcomer to the Esquadra Nationale, Vittoria Oriastella, has proven her place as one of the rising stars of the national football, scoring two goals in this World Cup, while at the top we have famous strikers like the captain Gustavo Zapata and the young star Matteo Ventomar.
Name Goals Scored Rank Gustavo Zapata 9 #1 Matteo Ventomar 8 #2 Pietro Takeda 5 #3 Lorentio Santo-Ferrari 4 #4 Regina Horatiano-Viselli 3 #5 Arabella Viator-Nyima 2 #6 Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio Klementina de Abreo-Florino Vittoria Oriastella Sergio Feragi Faustiano 1 #10 Giovanni Oliverde-Lastrilla Kassio Fidustio-Severi Herbina Gavio Horati Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli Hortensia Purparbone That is all from us today! Although our team has been eliminated, continue watching this channel because we will continue displaying further matches from the 3rd World Cup of Football. I hope to see you there, and I also make an invite to all viewers to stay tuned for our upcoming Chess Report that will cover all happenings from the 1423 Giovanniland Chess Championship, starting today in the city of Sonserina!

Hello everyone! I am Numerio Dellio-Oliverde, host of the special Football Report that is taking place during the 3rd World Cup of Football. Today we'll talk about the round of 16 game against Nieubasria, which sadly resulted in elimination for the Giovannilandian team, as well as expectations for the next world cup. 
Round of 16: Giovanniland 1-3 Nieubasria (Halftime: 1-1)
Goals: Vittoria Oriastella (28')
The players of Team Giovanniland started the game with confidence against Nieubasria, knowing the challenge ahead of playing against the defending champions. The team played more defensively than before, with the striker Klementina de Abreo-Florino giving the way to another defender, the experienced Gioseppe Offerio-Apustio. Through most of the first half this strategy worked, although it was also nailbiting to watch for any Giovannilandian: the ball spent more time in our defensive half than the attacking one, with the team getting its scoring attempts mostly from counterattacks.
In one of these attempts, Vittoria Oriastella successfully found her way to a good angle to shoot the ball, receiving the ball from former captain Lorentio Santo-Ferrari, and scored, to the surprise of the Basric team. Giovanniland would then hold the advantage for most of the remaining time in the first half, however Nieubasria's striker Camdyn Cartwrighte dealt a blow to Giovannilandian morale when the carefully set up defense was bypassed by him just before the first half ended, on minute three of stoppage time.
In the second half, Team Giovanniland continued with a similar formation to the first half, hoping that they would be able to mount a similar counterattack to the previous one that led to the goal. In fact the team did, with good attempts from Gabriella Orfeo and Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio, the latter of which required a stellar defense from Nieubasria's goalkeeper Dalton Fairburne to stop, but overall the success was not to be repeated since the Basric defense improved after the first and ultimately only goal from Giovanniland.
As time progressed, the goal to break the even score was eventually scored by the striker Zedh Coreia from Nieubasria at the 65th minute, and the defending champions further added to their score near the end of the match through a 83th minute goal by Landan Aylmere, unfortunately denying the Giovannilandians any chance at a comeback.
Our team was then eliminated from the competition, curiously the third time this happens just at the round of 16 and with a score of 3-1 for the opposing team, dubbed 'The 3-1 Curse' by fans. The coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare expressed their commiserations at the result and the fact the goal of surpassing this stage did not come to fruition, but also lauded the team for playing to the best of its ability against the top team in the world. Gustavo Zapata, the new captain, also commented that due to the big changes taken in the team since the last world cup this new roster is very much still adapting itself, and over time he expects that it will be stronger.
With these results, we at the Football Report have updated the scoring leaderboard one last time for the foreseeable future! The newcomer to the Esquadra Nationale, Vittoria Oriastella, has proven her place as one of the rising stars of the national football, scoring two goals in this World Cup, while at the top we have famous strikers like the captain Gustavo Zapata and the young star Matteo Ventomar.
Name Goals Scored Rank Gustavo Zapata 9 #1 Matteo Ventomar 8 #2 Pietro Takeda 5 #3 Lorentio Santo-Ferrari 4 #4 Regina Horatiano-Viselli 3 #5 Arabella Viator-Nyima 2 #6 Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio Klementina de Abreo-Florino Vittoria Oriastella Sergio Feragi Faustiano 1 #10 Giovanni Oliverde-Lastrilla Kassio Fidustio-Severi Herbina Gavio Horati Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli Hortensia Purparbone That is all from us today! Although our team has been eliminated, continue watching this channel because we will continue displaying further matches from the 3rd World Cup of Football. I hope to see you there, and I also make an invite to all viewers to stay tuned for our upcoming Chess Report that will cover all happenings from the 1423 Giovanniland Chess Championship, starting today in the city of Sonserina!

Hello everyone! I am Numerio Dellio-Oliverde, host of the special Football Report that is taking place during the 3rd World Cup of Football. Today we'll talk about the round of 16 game against Nieubasria, which sadly resulted in elimination for the Giovannilandian team, as well as expectations for the next world cup. 
Round of 16: Giovanniland 1-3 Nieubasria (Halftime: 1-1)
Goals: Vittoria Oriastella (28')
The players of Team Giovanniland started the game with confidence against Nieubasria, knowing the challenge ahead of playing against the defending champions. The team played more defensively than before, with the striker Klementina de Abreo-Florino giving the way to another defender, the experienced Gioseppe Offerio-Apustio. Through most of the first half this strategy worked, although it was also nailbiting to watch for any Giovannilandian: the ball spent more time in our defensive half than the attacking one, with the team getting its scoring attempts mostly from counterattacks.
In one of these attempts, Vittoria Oriastella successfully found her way to a good angle to shoot the ball, receiving the ball from former captain Lorentio Santo-Ferrari, and scored, to the surprise of the Basric team. Giovanniland would then hold the advantage for most of the remaining time in the first half, however Nieubasria's striker Camdyn Cartwrighte dealt a blow to Giovannilandian morale when the carefully set up defense was bypassed by him just before the first half ended, on minute three of stoppage time.
In the second half, Team Giovanniland continued with a similar formation to the first half, hoping that they would be able to mount a similar counterattack to the previous one that led to the goal. In fact the team did, with good attempts from Gabriella Orfeo and Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio, the latter of which required a stellar defense from Nieubasria's goalkeeper Dalton Fairburne to stop, but overall the success was not to be repeated since the Basric defense improved after the first and ultimately only goal from Giovanniland.
As time progressed, the goal to break the even score was eventually scored by the striker Zedh Coreia from Nieubasria at the 65th minute, and the defending champions further added to their score near the end of the match through a 83th minute goal by Landan Aylmere, unfortunately denying the Giovannilandians any chance at a comeback.
Our team was then eliminated from the competition, curiously the third time this happens just at the round of 16 and with a score of 3-1 for the opposing team, dubbed 'The 3-1 Curse' by fans. The coach Hettor Ottavio-Linare expressed their commiserations at the result and the fact the goal of surpassing this stage did not come to fruition, but also lauded the team for playing to the best of its ability against the top team in the world. Gustavo Zapata, the new captain, also commented that due to the big changes taken in the team since the last world cup this new roster is very much still adapting itself, and over time he expects that it will be stronger.
With these results, we at the Football Report have updated the scoring leaderboard one last time for the foreseeable future! The newcomer to the Esquadra Nationale, Vittoria Oriastella, has proven her place as one of the rising stars of the national football, scoring two goals in this World Cup, while at the top we have famous strikers like the captain Gustavo Zapata and the young star Matteo Ventomar.
Name Goals Scored Rank Gustavo Zapata 9 #1 Matteo Ventomar 8 #2 Pietro Takeda 5 #3 Lorentio Santo-Ferrari 4 #4 Regina Horatiano-Viselli 3 #5 Arabella Viator-Nyima 2 #6 Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio Klementina de Abreo-Florino Vittoria Oriastella Sergio Feragi Faustiano 1 #10 Giovanni Oliverde-Lastrilla Kassio Fidustio-Severi Herbina Gavio Horati Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli Hortensia Purparbone That is all from us today! Although our team has been eliminated, continue watching this channel because we will continue displaying further matches from the 3rd World Cup of Football. I hope to see you there, and I also make an invite to all viewers to stay tuned for our upcoming Chess Report that will cover all happenings from the 1423 Giovanniland Chess Championship, starting today in the city of Sonserina!

Introduction

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

Results of the Quarterfinals

COMMS TO ALL FIELD COMMAND OFFICERS IN FAR-EASTERN CONTROL ZONE
SENDER: VC Stavka/FC FECZ
Today we begin the integration of the FECZ into the Free State. From Stavka on to company, all have received their orders. The following measures are to take place:
1. Designated units will ensure compliance of relocation of hostile-class residents to reserved lands. Non-compliant hostile-class residents, if classified as a threat, shall be immediately terminated. Other non-compliant hostile-class residents shall be handed to Gulag Processing Units in their sectors.
2. Border units shall be at fortress state along the frontier and reinforced.
3. Supporting internal units to enforce lockdown procedures in their sectors.
4. Port Ain and other urban sectors in FECZ with Dalimbari and other FS citizens shall be lightly swept for subversive activity and secured from outside conditions. 
5. Project Sitka shall be engaged in reserved lands for continued project testing, particular lands to be noted in future comms.
Glory to the Free State! Glory to the Marshal! Glory to our Ancestors and the Path!
-Gen. Iosip Frank

Leo Messy: Larxia's Football Maestro
 
Leo Messy, the respected captain of the Larxian National Team, is not just a football icon but a symbol of resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. His illustrious journey from humble beginnings to global prominence is a testament to his unwavering passion for the beautiful game.
Born and raised in a modest Larxian neighborhood, Leo's affinity for football bloomed on dusty streets, playing with a worn-out ball and dreams as big as the world. His innate talent and unyielding dedication caught the attention of local mentors, marking the genesis of an extraordinary sporting odyssey.
From those humble origins, Leo grew through Larxia's football ranks, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing footwork, impeccable vision, and unparalleled skill on the pitch. However, his path to success was marred by obstacles. Injuries and setbacks tested his resolve, but his tenacity to overcome adversity has defined his journey.
Becoming the captain of the Larxian National Team was a culmination of Leo's dedication and leadership. Off the field, he passionately supports grassroots football initiatives and philanthropic causes, aiming to uplift underprivileged communities and nurture aspiring talents.
However, Leo's World Cup journey is a tale of bitter defeats and unfulfilled dreams. In the inaugural World Cup, Larxia suffered a heart-wrenching loss to Nieubasria in the finals, and history repeated itself in the subsequent World Cup, where they faced an untimely exit in the quarterfinals against the same opponent.
Now, as the captain leading Larxia's charge in the ongoing World Cup, fate has intertwined his path once again with Nieubasria, this time in the quarterfinals. It's a moment fraught with significance—an opportunity for redemption, a chance to rewrite history, and an occasion for Leo to lead his team to victory against their longtime nemesis.
As Larxia braces for this pivotal match, Leo's story isn't just about football; it symbolizes resilience, fortitude, and an unyielding spirit that inspires millions worldwide. His determination to conquer past defeats and lead his team to glory encapsulates the unwavering commitment of a true sporting legend.

Match Report:
The highly anticipated clash between Aukera and Larxia began with both teams displaying exceptional determination. Aukera, known for their swift counterattacks, tested Larxia's defense early on, creating some tense moments. Larxia, however, showed resilience, dominating possession and orchestrating several attacking moves. Despite their efforts, the first half remained goalless, with both teams evenly matched in a fiercely contested battle.
The intensity soared in the second half as both sides pushed for a breakthrough. Aukera showcased their defensive prowess, thwarting Larxia's attempts at goal. However, in the 78th minute, the stadium erupted into jubilation as Larxia's maestro, Leo Messy, showcased his brilliance. With a stunning solo effort, he weaved past defenders and unleashed a powerful shot into the bottom corner, sending the Larxia fans into a frenzy. The scoreboard read 1-0 in favor of Larxia, a goal that sealed their place in the Quarterfinals of the World Cup.
The final whistle echoed across the stadium, marking Larxia's hard-fought 1-0 victory over a resilient Aukera. The Larxian supporters erupted into cheers, celebrating their team's triumph and qualification for the Quarterfinals. The players embraced each other, acknowledging the significance of their gritty performance that propelled them into the next stage of the tournament. The excitement among Larxia's fans was palpable, as they looked forward to the team's continued success on their quest for World Cup glory.
Next Challenge: Quarterfinals
As the celebrations simmered down, attention swiftly turned to the upcoming Quarter-final clash. Larxia's next challenge would be against their long-standing rivals, Nieubasria. Nieubasria have been a thorn in Larxia's side, defeating them in previous crucial stages of the World Cup - the Finals of the first World Cup and the Quarterfinals in the second. The stage was set for a fierce and anticipated battle between these two footballing powerhouses, reigniting a historic rivalry on the grand stage of the World Cup.

"so... we actually won? Against the host? Who is currently setting fire to their own stadium?" asked Gen. Iosip Frank, almost stunned at television.
Marshal Briand and General Frank were watching the Ryxtylopia vs Dalimbar match on FSTV-1.
"It... appears so. Remind me to have Stavka approve something for Sasha. Lunging at that one Ryx player in the first half was entertaining. I think she may have drew blood." responded Mar. Marcus Briand.
The two senior officers of the Free State historically often watched Dalimbari sports together, having been friends for what seemed like ages. Although born in separate cities, their families had close ties with one another and got to know each other in their time in the 16th Tank. Briand took a more direct route to Stavka compared to Frank, who preferred the field lifestyle. This week was the first in quite a while where the two were in the same room, now that Briand convinced Frank, and Stavka, to appoint his friend as Vice Chair.
"Absolutely, Marcus. Poor barbarians, they're going to lose their small minds at this. Which of the players scored? I couldn't tell." Gen. Frank said while sipping his beverage.
"Does it really matter? They're all one in the same. But I think it was either five or seven. Or maybe eight. I really do appreciate the program from Research Branch that made... whatever this all is, happen. I really can't tell the difference between them." the Marshal of the Free State of Dalimbar sipped his beverage, and the two watched a commercial on the latest in tractor technology in a contented silence.

Results of the Round of 16

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]

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]

Over the Gulf, 07:01
This one was good. Daring. Young, most likely. Desperate to live. Weren’t they all?
The dive was magnificent, foolhardy. Tchristan Skjursón, captain of the first wing, decided he would like more of this boy’s kind come the showdown. The boy flew, as they said, by the teeth. Such a scream dive. Skjursón didn’t know the runty little enemy fighters could achieve that.
It seemed almost a waste to slay him.
Wound tight in his flight suit, Skjursón committed his FP1-i steeper still, adjusting the trim, slicing down through the air like a knife at point six of mach. His cockpit was dark save for the winking lights of some instruments, which reflected off the black leather gloves encasing his hands. The stooping Firebird was an obvious mark in his gunsight.
How was it surviving? Pilot skill, or luck? The young had little of the former and, sometimes, barrels of the latter. The dive was testing the enemy plane right to the limits of its airframe. A single degree deeper and the descent would strip the wings away at the cabane or blow out the engine.
Behind his full-head helmet, Skjursón smiled. His face, so seldom seen, was marred by a grizzled tissue of scars.
At three hundred metres, the Firebird pulled out, dragging a long, aching turn up and away to avoid the ragged earth, its prop engine spitting and foundering.
Another surprise. Another admirable display of skill. Or luck.
Skjursón tilted his stick and nudged the engine, pulling out of the dive effortlessly, mocking the laboured struggles of the smaller plane. It had been locked in his sights for two minutes now.
Why hadn't he killed it?
I want to see what you've got, Skjursón thought.
The Firebird veered around a hilltop, letting the cross of its shadow flicker across the sunlit canopy, then tipped its wings hard to steer around another crag. Skjursón kept his FP1 almost level to execute a following path, ripping through the air like a hungry bird of prey. The Firebird was still in his crosshairs.
Suddenly, around the next turn, it disappeared. Skjursón frowned and swung about, assuming the boy had finally misadventured and flown into a hillside. For the first time in nearly three minutes, the gunsight was empty… visual lost...
No, not dead. There he was. The little wretch. He’d somehow flick-rolled the Firebird around the headland and swung back the way he’d come, gunning low on WEP.
Skjursón lifted his black-clad hands off the stick and clapped. Very fine indeed.
A warning note sounded and Skjursón snapped it off with a curse. He was down to reserve now, almost at the critical fuel threshold. That meant he had no more than two minutes left before he had to turn for home. More than that, and he wouldn’t make it to the beachhead aerie.
"Game’s done now," he hissed through chapped lips. He surged the FP1 forward and it went fluidly, responding perfectly, sure as a shark. Reacquire, he thought to himself. He’d made five kills already, another ace day, but this boy would make a nice round six. He’d dallied too long, playing games.
The FP1 chased and sought. The Firebird was pulling wide rolls and staying low, keeping the twisting furrows of the hill line between itself and the hunter.
Skjursón spat the most foul curse he knew. The little bastard was slipping away. By the tips of his fingers. By the teeth. He had allowed too much grace. Now the enemy was mocking him.
He got a partial alignment, then lost it again as the fugitive Firebird banked perilously around a coastal crag. They both passed so close that sand stormed up off the beach in their combined wash.
Another partial. Skjursón fired. Dazzling tracers laddered away from his machine and cut the cold morning air. Miss.
Another turn, another partial, another futile burst. Skjursón throttled up and soared around, swinging his machine out wide on the Firebird's eight. It was running for all it was worth, burning at full power. Skjursón got a true sight at last.
"Goodnight," he muttered, bored of the game now. His thumbs dug at the trigger paddle.
Cannon fire lanced down through the air ahead of him. Skjursón felt a tiny vibration and a glance told him he’d been holed in one wing. Out of the sun, a second Firebird was diving on his tail, its nose lit up with muzzle flash. Just a look told the expert captain that this second craft was piloted by an idiot, a man far less capable than the spirited boy he had been chasing. It was coming over too shallow, wobbling badly, desperately. It had no real target.
But still, it was behind him and gunning madly. The warning sounded again, impatient. He’d reached critical fuel threshold.
He was done here. Enough. Skjursón pulled the stick and powered off almost vertical, pulling out of the chase. The second Firebird went by under him as he climbed, bemused by the sudden exit.
Skjursón climbed into the sunlight, gaining altitude. He banked 180 and aimed his beloved FP1 South. This broiling air war was just getting started. There would be another day.
And another kill.

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).
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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]

I wouldn't care if it had to be outside, I'd rather decorate a real tree.

Well of course I would rather a real tree,  realistically though, artificial just makes more sense both economically and logistically but it can never beat the real deal.