United Adaikes

The Adaikes Dispatch
Week 9, 1423
News
Latest News Stories
Coast Guard's patrol boat sank to a friendly fire mishap in a 3-hour cat-and-mouse chase after Cartel420's entry in UAD territorial waters
President Salazar returns from Teralyon diplomatic trip
Headlines
 House Minority prepares another constitutional amendment proposal, the third this year
Public Safety Secretary Aaron Yang to be invited to the House of Representatives to a joint Committee hearing in light of the sunken Coast Guard patrol boat
Regions
Thurhope nearly 100% for World EduCon
Mille-mer Coast Guard in red alert after the return of Cartel420
Opinion
Con-Ass vs. Con-Con
That next constitutional amendment proposal will be thrown to the legislative garbage bins - again
Is there something wrong with the current Constitution?
Sports
Badminton
United Adaikes Badminton Invitational calls all badminton enthusiasts, players, and world-elites for a one-weekend tournament
Volleyball
United Adaikes National Volleyball Federation inviting Polaris nations for a region-wide tournament they can do regularly
Lifestyle
Fashion
How to rock 'em spring fashion
Culture
Girl Scout cookies in short supply
Food
FreezePop's new ice cream flavor: Chicken
Events
Women's Month special: Women Situationer in UAD, Polaris and Esferos
Celebrities
Chrissy Whitney opens up about how she fixed marital issues with Clayton Hutson
Human Interest
Trending food delivery stocks to watch
Business
Mobility
Manufacturer tries to re-create iconic look of UAD transportation
F1: Aaron Deering looks set to fly for Viska
Job Market
How do UAD remote workers contribute to the online work landscape?
Teralyon welcomes Adaikesian plant and machine operators and assemblers
Technology
Department of Trade to online platforms: Comply with UAD laws
United Adaikes Central Bank, banks to study cuts in e-payment fees
Global Adaikes
United Adaikes
UAD officially invites Esferos to the World EduCon
Polaris
Task Force 417's accomplishments in reducing Cartel420's advances
Andolia
Andoliaville: The secession attempts
Nur
Fauthur-Aftokratoria relations going sour

The Adaikes Dispatch
Week 36, 1425
Sports
TTAUA Moves to Ban Materos Player in Massive Match-Fixing Scandal
Esteban Rueda
STESKIA, THRAPROY - The Table Tennis Association of United Adaikes (TTAUA) has been rocked by a major corruption scandal, leading to severe disciplinary action against a player and a tournament official, with potentially historic international repercussions.
The investigation, concluded yesterday, found Rikhalis Mocklegockle of Materos guilty of serious breaches of the TTAUA's Code of Conduct, including match-fixing and bribery. The inquiry revealed that Mocklegockle illicitly paid Tournament Director Luciana Barret to systematically ensure his matches were scheduled on the prominent Center Court, a move believed to be intended to gain undue psychological advantage and increased media exposure.
"The integrity of our sport is the foundation upon which everything is built. Any action that undermines that integrity will be met with the full force of our disciplinary procedures," stated TTAUA President, Ms. Unity Enriquez, in a press conference. "The actions of Mr. Mocklegockle and Ms. Barret represent a profound betrayal of the athletes, the fans, and the spirit of fair competition."
The sanctions are swift and severe:
Tournament Director Luciana Barret has been immediately fined an undisclosed sum and suspended from officiating any TTAUA-sanctioned events for a period of five years. Rikhalis Mocklegockle has been provisionally banned from all future tournaments conducted within the United Adaikes pending a final review. However, the TTAUA's actions are expected to extend far beyond its own borders. The Association announced it is considering a multi-pronged approach to ensure Mocklegockle faces global consequences:
Persona Non Grata Status: A formal recommendation will be submitted to the United Adaikes House of Representatives Committee on Sports to declare Mocklegockle Persona Non Grata, effectively barring him from entering the country. Global Ban: A petition will be sent to the United Adaikes Sports Commission, urging them to endorse a request to the Office of the President. This request would formally petition World Table Tennis (WTT, the highest governing body of table tennis in Esferos) to enact a worldwide ban on Mocklegockle from all international competition. If the WTT accepts the petition, it would be one of the most significant bans in recent table tennis history, effectively ending Mocklegockle's international career.
Attempts to reach Mocklegockle or the Materosian Table Tennis Federation for comment have so far been unsuccessful.
 
A Nation's Vigilance Against Sports Corruption
Corruption in sports is not new in United Adaikes. The massive "Game of Pains" government sports corruption exposé three years ago remains the largest and darkest political event of President Luke Salazar's tenure, with public officials, conglomerate leaders, and athletes still being implicated in ongoing trials. The scandal's long shadow grew even darker recently, as intelligence sources confirmed that the former United Adaikes Sports Commissioner Pouria Barr—the highest-ranking government official implicated—has defected to Dalimbar, linking up with the already-defected former Secretary of Trade Felice Colbert, supposedly the link how the other implicated industry officials were linked to the Game of Pains. Meanwhile, all other fourth-level government officials within the Sports Commission who were implicated have never been seen in public again.
This dark chapter, however, spurred a national reckoning and led to the passage of landmark laws that have fundamentally reformed the country's sports climate. These laws have created a framework for more transparent investigations, as seen in the Mocklegockle case, and established a true zero-tolerance policy.
Key legislation includes:
The Athletic Integrity Act (1423): Established the independent Office of Sports Integrity (OSI), empowered to investigate corruption across all sporting disciplines with subpoena power and to administer lifetime bans for offenders. The Clean Competition Act (1424): Mandates strict financial transparency for all national sports associations and criminalizes illicit betting and match-fixing with severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. The Whistleblower Protection and Incentive Act (1424): Provides robust anonymity, legal protection, and financial incentives for athletes, officials, and insiders who come forward with credible information on corruption, a key tool in uncovering schemes. This robust legal framework is seen as a direct response to past failures and is credited with enabling the TTAUA to act so decisively in this case. "The laws have given us the teeth to bite back," a TTAUA spokesperson remarked. "We are making an example because the nation has demanded it."

ORANDIAN FOOTBALL DOMESTIC LEAGUE
(This page is a work in progress!)
The Orandian Football Federation, or OFF, is the organization in charge of football (soccer) matters on the national and regional level. It oversees the Capital League, the eleven regional leagues, and the Aidnaro Semi League. College and local leagues are instead organized by their respective institutions. 
 
The Capital League is composed of sixteen franchised teams. Most represent a regional capital, with the exception of Crossroads, which bears a team due to its significant size. Orandia’s two largest cities, Nordiaa and Aidnaro, have two and three teams respectively. 
 
Teams play every other team twice for a 30-week regular season, after which playoffs begin. The highest-scoring eight teams from the regular season face off in seeded matches, with the best team facing the eighth best, the second best facing the seventh best, etc. This is followed by semifinal and final matches, making six playoff matches and one championship match. The winning team gains the title of Champion and the right to represent Orandia at international sporting events for the coming year.
 
The fifteen or so weeks between seasons fall within the hottest, rainiest part of the Orandian year, in summer. College leagues avoid these weeks as well, however, many local leagues still play during this time. The Aidnaro Semi League, a collection of semi-professional teams in the Aidnaro area, deliberately plays during this time, attracting Capital League fans who are after a constant football fix, and allowing everyone else to escape the rain for a little while in a covered stadium.
Capital League home uniforms are brightly colored. Away uniforms are muted or patterned with white. It’s easy to tell, from a glance at your TV, who’s on their home turf and who isn’t. 
 
The sixteen Capital League teams are as follows.
 
 
Aidnaro Cosmos
Home Colors: Deep blue, purple, magenta, gold
Away Colors: Paler colors
Stadium: Galaxy Stadium
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: After rebranding as Cosmos, this team is uber-popular with the youth of Aidnaro and just about everywhere else in the country. They’re easily the “it” team for the time being: hip and cool, with plenty of young blood. Always rocking the latest equipment, this self-proclaimed “team of the future” is the lifeblood of modern Orandian professional football. The iconic dark cool tones shot through with magenta and gold have become an instant classic, and seem to be everywhere you look in Aidnaro.
 
Aidnaro Industrial
Home Colors: Grey, bright yellow
Away Colors: White-striped
Stadium: The Warehouse
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: The east of Aidnaro, while being a thriving foreign port, is home to factories galore, and it is from these factories that Industrial came to be. Working-class and down-to-earth, the team is known for its impenetrable defense and imposing figure - literally. Industrial players run both tall and large, maintaining a stoic but not unfriendly atmosphere. Many Industrial players are immigrants or children of immigrants; there’s someone for everyone to relate to.
 
Aidnaro Standard
Home Colors: Deep purple with white trim
Away Colors: White with purple trim
Stadium: West Side Stadium
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: “Standard” is a short version of the old name “Standard Bearers.” That said, Standard is not a particularly stand-out team, apart from its age. As the first professional football team in Aidnaro, it has a long history and thus tends to reflect traditional Orandian values, claiming Aidnaro purple as its color. Standard has a balanced playstyle that some might call boring, but even non-fans can’t deny that their consistency pays.
 
Nordiaa Kingsmen
Home Colors: Deep red and gold
Away Colors: Gold with deep red trim
Stadium: Crystal Palace Stadium
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Nordiaa's proud premier team. Named at a time when Orandia had a king rather than a queen, and originally all-male, the name has been kept even though neither are true anymore. Some argue that the Kingsmen represent an outdated era, while others are in favor of its traditional look and feel. Between its preference for well-known, veteran players and a refined, thinky play style, many teams are reluctant to face the Kingsmen, though all will be forced to twice a year. Out of all the Capital League teams, the Kingmen easily have the largest “hate-dom,” at least in online spaces.
 
Nordiaa Tigers
Home Colors: Black and orange stripe pattern
Away Colors: White-striped instead of black-striped
Stadium:
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: The fierce second team of Nordiaa, full of youth and power. The Kingsmen’s older, more conservative fanbase only adds to the rebellious feel of being a Tigers fan. And Tigers players bring the energy to match, from open support of progressive social movements to a robust, well-followed social media presence. The fans are the reason that Nordiaa derby games have a reputation for becoming violent, though the average young Tigerhead would tell you it’s all in good fun. Even the Kingsmen’s other games have become targets for Tigers lovers, particularly home games, with large groups suddenly revealing orange-and-black jerseys in the stands and booing the Kingsmen.
 
Arondai Arrows
Home Colors: Bright orange and yellow
Away Colors: White-striped
Stadium: 
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Arondai is Orandia’s least populated regional capital. The region of Knapp itself isn’t known for much besides its large rural farming communities. But that’s not to say Arondaians don’t enjoy football. People from all over Knapp come to the city to watch home games, and travel long hours to away ones. It’s a city team with small-town spirit, making everyone feel at home. 
 
Dainroa Stingrays
Home Colors: Bright blue and yellow
Away Colors: Paler colors
Stadium: Eastham Beach Stadium
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: A fun-loving team that works as hard as it plays. The people of Palla, just west of Aidnaro, are a healthy mix of competitive and playful, boasting several famous cultural products and lush beaches that attract tourists. Dainroa has plenty of exciting things going on, but isn't a part of hectic and massive Aidnaro. Stingrays fans strike a miracle balance. They are fervent without being toxic, welcoming everyone to watch their home team play. The players themselves are consistently among the most creative in the league, with the speed and skill to back it up, making every game interesting.
 
Dianaro Diamondbacks
Home Colors: Brown, aqua blue, white
Away Colors: White with brown and blue trim
Stadium: 
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Orandia’s lakeside is home to a thriving pair of twin cities. The Diamondbacks are the speedier, impulsive counterpart to Jade’s thoughtful and deliberate play style. Neither team is too fiercely competitive, especially when it comes to one another, and lakeside “derbies” are actually pretty peaceful occurrences. Because of the difference in styles, it’s not uncommon to transfer an aging Diamondback to Jade for their final few years in professional sport.
 
Narodia Jade
Home Colors: Pale green
Away Colors: Pale purple*
Stadium: 
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Jade is the intelligent, deliberate answer to the quick and excitable Diamondbacks. Located just across the lakeside from Dianaro, there’s a reason these twin cities’ names mirror one another, and it’s not just the capital naming scheme! Some who live in the area don’t even think of the two as separate; the public transit networks are connected, many commute to the other city for work, and the massive bridge connecting them is a popular tourist spot for sightseeing and selfies. Fittingly, the two fanbases act somewhat like a single united front, attending each others’ games, cheering for each other’s teams, and forming lifelong friendships. 
*The away kit is a different color, not only because the home color is already pale, but because the mineral jadeite is commonly thought of as green, but can also be purple!
 
Donaari Wild Boars
Home Colors: Bright red
Away Colors: White-striped
Stadium: The Pigpen
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Masly is a territory that used to be its own country. It was absorbed into Orandia a little over a century ago due to logistical and economic troubles following its conquest by Saint Mark. As such, Maslians tend to differ from Orandians in many ways, but most at least tolerate their non-Maslian neighbors, who are mainly farmers. Donaari functions as a hub town where people come together, be it for festivals or football. The Boars’ fans may be few in number (outside Donaari, that is), but they are passionate, dressing their city up with red banners every season. The team is a bit of an underdog, with an aggressive, offensive play style that doesn’t slack on defenses either. Depending on the year, they can and do become a force of nature to play against.
 
Idonara Hornets
Home Colors: Black and golden yellow stripes
Away Colors: White and golden yellow stripes
Stadium: 
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Where is Idonara again…? Right, in Dess. The city of Idonara is unfortunately overshadowed by the much more populous Crossroads, as well as confused easily with Inardoa in Haute-Claire. Tucked away in a neglected corner of east Orandia, the people living here have convinced themselves that Idonara is actually a cool place to be… which caused enough businesses and attractions to spring up to make Idonara actually worth a stop for travelers wanting to step outside the tourist hotspots. The Hornets haven’t escaped unpopularity, but with sixteen teams in the League, some will naturally take a backseat to others. They’re offensive, but not as much as the Raptors; fast, but not as much as the Diamondbacks; they have underdog charm, but not as much as the Wolves. Will they ever be top dog?
 
Inardoa Iron Roses
Home Colors: Deep pink and grey
Away Colors: Grey with pink trim
Stadium: The Trellis
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Inardoa lays squarely in the middle of a region called Haute-Claire, which is remarkably neither high nor clear. Haute-Claire is in an unfortunate location; it’s not on the coastline where there are beaches, and it’s not further west where Orandia’s famous pink mountainsides lie. Since neither Nordiaan team has capitalized on the color pink, the Iron Roses stepped up to the plate, and did it early, as they are one of the nation’s oldest football clubs. So they say, the name Iron Roses comes from resilient strains of ornamental roses bred by early Nouveauterran immigrants. Nouveauterra’s presence can be felt all around northern Orandia, but the Iron Roses in particular have an affinity for both players and fans from Nouveauterra and the rest of Doll Goldur.
 
Rionada Raptors
Home Colors: Green, blue, and purple
Away Colors: Paler colors
Stadium: 
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: If Industrial has all the tall people, where do the short ones go? They go to the Raptors. It helps that the Raptors are primarily women. They are the only Capital League team to have once been all-female. The South Coast itself has a long history of self-sufficient female leadership, resisting Nouveauterran and Markan influence alike, to what degree it could. But don’t be fooled by the team’s small statures: the Raptors are fierce, and play a punishing offense. Their fans back them with just as much fervor. Young women in Aidnaro, more and more, choose the Raptors over local teams, partly because of the girl-power vibes, partly because Rionada itself is nearby and fun to visit. 
 
Arandio Hawks
Home Colors: Red, orange, and yellow
Away Colors: Paler colors
Stadium: 
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Orandia's northern coast has a lot to offer. Picturesque beaches, culturally significant crafts, daring Nouveauterran-Orandian fusion cuisine. As the original hotbed for Dull Guldur immigrant activity, Arandio maintains a large immigrant population and the highest levels of Nouveauterran language fluency in the country. No matter their origin, the people here are competitive and hardworking, always looking for things to improve. The Hawks know that a straightforward, aggressive show will win over local fans, so that's exactly how the Hawks play. Out of all Orandia's teams, it's them who most often sustain injuries from overextending themselves. Some say the team is cursed. Others know it's all about the unfortunate mindset and social pressures that the players subscribe to. 
 
Naiador Wolves
Home Colors: Emerald green and black
Away Colors: Dull grey and green
Stadium: The Den
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Naiador is a bit of a mystery. It’s a lovely city sitting aside the largest lake in central Orandia, but the constant foggy weather and abundance of religiously charged ruins make it seem haunted and odd. The Wolves carry this vibe with them, being especially quiet on and off the field, but working together in a way that some joke to be telepathic. Wolves plays are known for their excellent execution and teamwork, backed by a genius coach, and yet, they get a fraction of the attention of teams in more populous locations. Is it some sort of curse? And just what are the players eating to work together so well? The truth may never be known. 
 
Crossroads Blades
Home Colors: Green with multicolor trim
Away Colors: White-striped
Stadium: Crossroads Field
Manager:
Notable Players:
Summary: Crossroads is unique among Orandian settlements in that it is not a regional capital of any sort, yet maintains a population higher than over half of them. Crossroads is a midpoint between the nation’s two largest cities, and it became a common stopping point for foot travelers and, later, trains. Now, it is the only other stop on the Orandian high-speed express rail line connecting Aidnaro with Nordiaa, and a pivotal stop for many other rail and car routes. People come and go from Crossroads, and this is no less true for the Blades, who boast the highest player transfer rate consistently. But no matter the year, the Blades bring a powerful all-rounding style to the table that stays fresh each time, to the admiration of their slightly mellow but dedicated fans.

Part 5
the Petit Auvers neighborhood
Agentum, La Havre
 
Yves and Adrian are leaned up against a black sedan, with the gentle morning breeze billowing their clothes. Adrian looked down at a wristwatch. Eight on the dot. He looked back up to Yves. They exchanged nods. Yves began walking away from the sedan as Adrian reached underneath it. Adrian stood up with a rifle by his thigh. Yves walked a couple buildings down, until he reached one with an alley, which he slipped into. The dirt alley had a small step-ladder leading to the house on the left’s roof.
 
Yves ascended the ladder and came upon a rifle bag. He unzipped the bag in a hurry and brought his rifle to bear. He kept it flat against the roof, and watched Adrian’s silhouette. Adrian limbered the rifle into position. A short and sharp exhale. Adrian tightened up. Rifle leveled.
 
POP POP POP POP POP BRZZZZZZZZZT
 
An enormous fireball leapt from the power station to the sidewalk. Yves watched as the flame hooked around Adrian and set his hoodie ablaze. Yves set down his rifle and jumped off of the roof to the ground. He began sprinting, wincing at the very hurt soles of his feet. Adrian rolled on the ground, attempting to take the still blazing hoodie off his body. 
 
Yves reached Adrian, both gasping for air. “Roll to the other side!” Yves yelled. He took off his own jacket to smother the flame. He whipped his head to the side and caught a glimpse of the target. It was a large transformer box. Multiple holes in its side spewed flames across to another transformer box.
 
BRRRZZTTTTT
 
A waft of flame shot out past a chain-link fence and onto the street. Grass and leaves caught flame, and so did Yves’ pants. Yves skipped on his toes as he tried to out the fledgling fire on his ankles.
the Molae neighborhood
Agentum, La Havre
 

 
Caspar and Gil stood next to a parked car. Gil, wearing a military-like jacket with large breast and abdomen pockets, faced more towards the Immigration Services building than Caspar. A tobacco pack darted between Gil’s teeth as he reached into his pocket, with a radio’s speaker poking out.
 
CED [Central Emergency Dispatch] to All Available Units, Call for Fire Suppression and EMS at Rue Roulier Power Transmission Station
 
Gil and Caspar became stiffer than statues.
 
We have an electrical fire and secondary grass and vehicle fires in and around the transmission station. All available foam and water pumper trucks report to adjoining streets to begin fire suppression. EMS radio net notified of two young males with severe burns requiring medical treatment. Baie Mouchetée Power notified of fire and power outage.
 
Gil and Caspar looked at each other. “You’re thinking,” Gil said. He stopped as Caspar nodded his head. Caspar shook his head and clapped his hands against his legs. 
 
Caspar reached for a guitar case on the ground and opened it. He reached for a lapel microphone and tapped it. “Execute, Execute, Execute,” Caspar said with clenched teeth distorting his command. He stood up and passed a rifle to Gil, who took it and reached into his jacket. Gil pulled out a ski-mask and donned it in an instant.
 
Caspar and Gil ran down the street towards the Immigration Services building. Around a dozen men emerged from the streets with rifles drawn. Two men posted up against the building beside the double doors. They opened the doors and the men flooded in. Caspar, then Gil ran in through the doors only to be greeted by an ear splitting wail. Gil came into a lobby area where there were two doors, an employee door and an entry door. One of the guerrillas had a foot in the employee door with his rifle pointed into the opening.
 
“Stop or you’re dead!” the guerrilla yelled. Caspar, Gil, and many other men filed in through the employee door to the inner halls of the complex.
 
Gil watched as the men filed in. He positioned himself at the ready for the apartment right next to him, with two other men joining him. 
 
“It’s a fucking bandit alarm boss, what do we do?”
“We change the plan. Bang the door on the first floor and each one as we go, we’re gonna have to do it quickly.”
 
Gil cocked his head up and raised his rifle. He nodded towards the man nearest to him, who in short order began kicking the door. BAM! BAM! BREAK! The door moved slightly off its frame, and the guerrilla kicked the door open again for good measure. Gil kept his rifle raised as he went into the shotgun style apartment: a narrow hallway with off-shoots on the side. Gil took the path immediately to his left and came to a quiet room. A couch, a TV, a grandma in a gold-leaf picture frame. A bookshelf filled with text in another language. Gil got on his radio.
 
“Apartment One Clear! Something’s up. This place is empty.”
“Apartment Two Clear, no hostiles.”
“Starting Apartment Three. Hold the air.”
 
Gil and his guerrillas marched out of the apartment with their rifles lowered. By the time they reached the hallway, the crash of a busted down door echoed down to their ears. Gil looked around before talking into his radio.
 
“This is a setup boss, we have to exfil.”
 
Caspar came back down the stairs, past some guerrillas posted in defensive positions, and walked to the reception desk. A lone worker, an old Danav man, sat on the ground with his hands up. Caspar stared at the man.
 
“I don’t know a thing,” the man said.
 
“Sure you don't,” Caspar said.
 
POP!
 
The old man fell over dead, grey matter and blood painting the floor beneath a desk behind him. Caspar got on the radio.
 
“All units, we are breaking contact and evack-ing. Squad D, what’s it like outside?”
“Squad D to Red Hand Actual, lots of sirens coming our way. You sure it’s just the bandit alarm?”
“Hold position and provide cover. We’ll be on the main road.”
 
Gil came outside with the rest of the men when he looked up to the road he had just come from. A Chacal armored transport vehicle came to a screeching halt, and cocked to one side with its side doors flying open. Men and women in uniform with rifles were quick to take up shooting positions. A shaking guerrilla clapped the barrel of their rifle against the hood of a nearby car, and an errant bullet skated across the pavement. Gunfire erupted from all sides. The echoing made speech vanish. Even individual gunshots seemed to disappear in the sea of noise.
 
Gil hunched over and skittered behind parked cars until he got to the building’s corner.
 
“GET DOWN THE HILL!” 
 
That was Caspar’s shriek. Gil went to one knee and let out a wave of bullets. The rifle’s receiver clicked open, and he loaded a new magazine in a smooth motion. He let out the entire magazine once again as guerrillas ran behind him. Gil got up as another guerrilla took his place to provide cover. He caught a glimpse of Caspar. Caspar covered one hand with the other. The left forearm of his jacket was shredded, and covered in fresh blood. 
 
 
Clara and Lamar ran with their rifles held high. They went down a sloping street as gunfire echoed all around. Shooting nearby, rifle fire in the opposite direction, random shots from the armored vehicle. The armored vehicle itself began to move again, its diesel engine belched smoke out the tailpipe as it smashed past a 20 year old sedan.
 
“The guy with the beret,” Lamar shouted. “That has to be Caspar Husel!”
 
“Stay close, these guys are serious!” Clara said. “Wait!”
 
Lamar bounded down an alley, a blood trail between his boots. Clara and a couple policemen followed Lamar’s lead. Lamar turned again to a skinny stairwell alley. A couple shots rang out. Clara sprinted and came to the stairwell. Lamar was slumped against a stone wall at the bottom. Clara lifted her rifle as she made her way down the stairs. She took short, sharp breaths as her hands shook. A policeman was ready with his rifle right behind her. Once they reached the bottom, the policeman peeked around the corner for a second and held up hand. Five fingers, a palm pushed away twice. Clara readied herself behind the policeman. Four more policemen gathered behind her, with two putting their rifles away, with hands aimed towards Lamar.
 
Clara and the policemen came out of the alley with bullets flying. The group of five men guerrillas were peppered with rifle fire. Both groups took cover in building doorways and short walls. A guerrilla let out a cry of pain. Clara ducked and ran across the narrow alley. Sporadic shots tore apart the stucco facade of the stone buildings. A policeman’s gunfire died down. The guerrillas ran.
 
“Help me! Heeeeelp!” a guerrilla yelled, reaching out at his fleeing comrades.
 
Clara ran forward until she was far ahead of the group. She came to a series of wide stairs, alone.

Her rifle was low. Ringing ears made looking around more difficult. She saw two figures as they limped along the river.
 
“Repertor!” a shout came from the broad alley.
 
Clara walked towards the limping figures as they dipped down the riverbank. She drew nearer, her breath now slow and shallow. She raised her rifle up as she came to the figures. It was Caspar, and Gil. Both of them had many bullet wounds, and were coughing in agony. Gil was kneeling, with his rifle at his side. Caspar had no weapon, and was simply holding onto life. Caspar turned around. So did Gil.
 
“Gil. Put the rifle down,” Caspar said, his voice fluttered in the morning air. Gil let out a hoarse sigh. “We give up,” Caspar continued. “Finished.”
 
“You still believe?” Clara said. Caspar looked up with a puzzled yet bloody eye.
 
“Yeah,” Caspar said, half a question, half an answer.
 
POP POP POP POP POP

Round 8 Pre-Qualifying Briefing – Autodromo di Vynitiná, Ryxtylopia
 
Track Length: 6.0 km Laps: 60
Conditions: Scorching 31°C, gusty crosswinds on the back straight
Overtaking Difficulty: Low (tight final sector)
Bias: Power + Slipstream circuits
Weather: Dry but unstable air — distant thunder threatening a surprise
Heading In
Championship: Maric (197 pts) vs. Raikkovic (181 pts) — only 16 points apart.
Constructors: Zvesda vs. Valkyrie — equally tight.
Dark Horses: Viiding (Cambrias) and Deering (CopperUA) both mathematically still in the hunt for P3 overall.
 
Round 8 Qualifying – Autodromo di Vynitiná, Ryxtylopia

Qualifying Headlines
“Maric Grabs Pole — but Faces Investigation as Viiding & Raikkovic Loom!”
Sasha Maric narrowly claims pole by 0.017 seconds, but his unsafe rejoin could cost him.
Viiding continues his late-season form surge, nearly clinching a second pole.
Deering furious after catching traffic; radio message: “That lap was mine.”
Mytapixas fans went from heart-in-mouths to euphoria after Carraizé recovered from his spin.
The paddock waits anxiously — if stewards penalize Maric, Viiding will start from pole for the season finale.
 
Round 8 Pre Race – Autodromo di Vynitiná Grand Prix (Season Finale)
Weather: Sunny start → Storm mid-race → Dry sprint finish
Laps: 60
Track Length: 6 km
Crowd: 230 000 screaming fans
Pole: Eduard Viiding (Cambrias Aurora) after Maric’s 5-place grid penalty
Pre-Race Drama
Maric is demoted to P6 for unsafe re-entry in qualifying.
Valkyrie engineers argue the decision; Zvesda quietly celebrate.
The Constructors’ title stands at Zvesda 221 pts vs Valkyrie 197 pts — still alive if both Valkyries finish top-4.
Thunderheads build on the horizon; FIA warns of possible mid-race downpour.
 
 
Round 8 Race – Autodromo di Vynitiná Grand Prix (Season Finale)

Final Championship Outcome
Drivers’ Champion: Misha Raikkovic (Zvesda Auto Formula)
Wins by 2 points after Maric’s heartbreak.
Constructors’ Champion: Zvesda Auto Formula
Vanscoski’s 6th place sealed the crown.
 
Final Drivers’ Championship Standings
 
Final Constructors' Championship Standings
 

Results of the Medal Matches of RWC6
 
Bronze Medal Match
United Adaikes 13–3 Ryxtylopia
 
Gold Medal Match
Zoran 10–19 Dalimbar
 

Results of the Medal Matches of RWC6
 
Bronze Medal Match
United Adaikes 13–3 Ryxtylopia
 
Gold Medal Match
Zoran 10–19 Dalimbar
 

RWC 6 - Day Seven - Medal Matches
A     B Ryxtylopia (53.77) 03 13 United Adaikes (53.01+3) Dalimbar (56.21) 19 10 Zoran (60.39+3) Dalimbar - 59.65 Zoran - 56.96 United Adaikes - 54.56 Cambria - 53.42 Teralyon - 52.60 Ostronia - 52.37 Ryxtylopia - 52.22 Overthinkers - 51.20 Staneburg - 50.76 Fujai - 50.28 Saint Mark - 49.60 Hertfordshire and Jammbo - 49.48 Giovanniland - 49.08 Mygrdiyah - 48.72 Greiya - 48.39 Nalibia - 48.14 Nouveauterra - 47.96 Sekiya - 47.83 Inseberistan - 47.01 Arifiyyah - 46.33 Jerimiahia - 46.07 Zhiznovsk - 45.92 Min-Su - 45.84 Larxia - 45.84 Peourouin - 45.54 Rivalfiume - 44.67 Nieubasria - 43.50 Avadonialis - 43.38 Zogradia - 43.25 Materos - 42.44 Ageros - 42.32 New Velka - 41.24 Varanius - 40.67 Einherfell - 39.81 Denieria - 39.61 Won Gold, Silver, Bronze.

Results of the Medal Matches of RWC6
 
Bronze Medal Match
United Adaikes 13–3 Ryxtylopia
 
Gold Medal Match
Zoran 10–19 Dalimbar
 

Results of the Medal Matches of RWC6
 
Bronze Medal Match
United Adaikes 13–3 Ryxtylopia
 
Gold Medal Match
Zoran 10–19 Dalimbar
 

Results of the Medal Matches of RWC6
 
Bronze Medal Match
United Adaikes 13–3 Ryxtylopia
 
Gold Medal Match
Zoran 10–19 Dalimbar
 

Results of the Medal Matches of RWC6
 
Bronze Medal Match
United Adaikes 13–3 Ryxtylopia
 
Gold Medal Match
Zoran 10–19 Dalimbar
 

(Credit to @Dalimbar for providing me with try and conversion scorers)
 
 

Ryxtylopia VS Dalimbar - Match Highlighs.
 
The TVNC tranmission started in the Chacas Arena, the crowds welcoming the team by unvailing a large ryxtylopian flag on the northern stands. With both teams exiting the tunnel with confident looks on their faces.
Pablo Virriscayda once again was in charge of the live commentry for TVNC.
 
"Hello everybody! You're watching TVNC! And im Pablo Virriscayda! And today is the match any ryxtylopian will look on with dread: THE SEMIFINALS! Our 3rd semifinal in a row! Will the Pirates manage to make it to the final? Or will they get knocked out by Dalimbar? We are about to find out here in the Chacas Arena!"
"Ryxtylopia's last match against Staneburg ended in a 37-21 victory for our Tricolór! The players always give their best in quarterfinal matches! While Dalimbar won a hard-fought match against Nouveauterra that ended 7-6. But if anything the dalimbari players don't have to worry much as Ryxtylopia has to tackle what people in our rugby space are calling: The Semifinal curse!"
"So here we stand! The Pirates aim for their first final! The dalimbaris aim for their second trophy! Who will win this clash of giants? We will soon find out!"
 
Ryxtylopia wins the coin toss, deciding to start by kicking off.
"The coin is tossed, and it seems... The pirates will kick off!"
 
KICK OFF As the pirates kick off, they start cautiously moving towards the dalimbari side of the field, passing a few times without much risk, not yet comitting to any attacks.
"LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THE SEMIFINALS ARE NOW UNDERWAY! RYXTYLOPIA VS DALIMABR HERE IN THE CHACAS ARENA AND UNITED ADAIKES VS ZORAN IN THE FRANCO RIVALDA! DALÉ RYXTYLOPIA, DALÉ TRICOLOR!"
 
10'  |  0-0 The first ten minutes passed with the score staying nil to nil. Ryxtylopia was cautiously pushing up in the early minutes, but the dalimbari, leaning on the defense on this match, kept them at bay. For Dalimbar the match didn't look any better than for Ryxtylopia, with them holding back, any chances to attack at the start were slow, easily handled by Ryxtylopia's defense.
Only in the 10th would any side get chances. Following a poorly executed tackle by Peter Srecko, Ryxtylopia's Marco Xilta got through most of the dalimbari players and in position to pass to Riberto Huichilca who could've scored a try where he was. But he was slow to react, and this gave a chance to Dalimbar's captain: Luka Ivica to tackle Xilta allowing nearby Damir Siamion to take the ball.
"Xiltaaaaaaa- Sreh- Sre- co... Serehcko...? Fails the tackle! Its up to Xilta to score, he could pass to Huichilca or Guilbirto! He moves on, this is a risky move annnd... TACKLE! By Ivica! Xilta looses posession, ball for Dalimbar!"
 
13'  |  0-0 Dalimbar was able to counterattack on the 13th. With Mikita Ajdin making it past Ryxtylopia's first line with Theo Farris and Rinaco Zicha failing to tackle. As Ajdin managed a pass to Antonin Klavdiya, who would've probably scored a try if it weren't for Aviliez Mataña's quick sprinting; Mataña tackled the dalimbari around 12 meters off from goal, and allowed Rivas to regain the ball for the Pirates.
"Ajdin near the middle! He makes it past Farris and Zicha! He is demonstrating great agility but not much speed! Mataña is on him! Ajdin needs to pass but Noooo! Tackled by Mataña! Rivas regains the ball! The game stays 0-0"
 
25'  |  0-5 L. Ivica (DAL)
N. Blago (DAL)
After a scrum caused by Franco Chalquaté comitting a knock on. Dalimbar would draw first blood, Mark Hynek speedily bringing the ball up to the ryxtylopian side, and managing to avoid a tackle from Marco Va'atí, with a well placed pass Ignacij Aysultan the dalimbari team got the ball a mere 7 meters off goal. Aysultan managed to get Rivas out of his position to then make one last pass to L. Ivica. as Dalimbar's captain scored the try.
But in the following conversion, Nikolai Blago failed to convert, hitting the ball with too much force causing it to curve and miss.
"Hynek achieves posession for the dalimbari! Va'atí fails a tackle! Pass to Aysultan! Now moving up parallel to Tivaña! Dalimbar nears, this is dangerous! Pass to Ivica- Rivas can't react in time, and- Score! Score! Score! Dalimbar Scores! It was an amazing pass from Aysultan to Ivica! To place the polari side up on the score!"
"Nikolai Blago will take the conversion. Blago, Blago, Blagooooo- MISS!! He kicked with too hard! The ball misses. It remains 0-5!"
 
39'  |  0-5 Following Ivica's try the first half would continue. The Ryxtylopians starting to get more agressive with their attacks, as many rucks and mauls happened during this time. The dalimbari on the other hand playing rather defensively.
Ryxtylopia's next big chance came a mere minute before half time. Pailo Darrias ran as fast as he could, making it halfway in to the dalimbari side of the field, he then made a good pass to Andreís Guilbirto waiting near the middle. As Guilbirto attempted to dodge D. Siamon to no avail, getting tackled in the process. Seeing this Franco Chalquaté, Marco Xilta, Theo Farris and Ferrán Lisquerva rushed to get the ball back, resulting in a ruck very close to the dalimbari goal. But it would be P. Srecko who came out victorious, saving Dalimbar from conceding.
"Attention everybody, Darrias with the ball! Moving through the left! Now pass to Guilbirto! Guilbirto runs! He attempts to dodge, he's on the- TAAACKLE! By Siamon! Now we have everybody moving in! Dangerous ruck on the dalimbari side! Its Ryxtylopian, its Dalimbari, its Ryxtylopian, its Dalimbari... ITS DALIMBARI! Ryxtylopia fails to capitalize on the opening!"
 
HALF TIME Half time, both teams quickly rushed to rethink their strategies, Dalimbar only had a minor lead. While for Ryxtylopia the current result meant elimination.
"Half time in the Chacas arena! Ryxtylopia is losing by 5 to Dalimbar! We still expect the match to get more intense! Make sure to grab some snacks and drinks, this is going to be a great match!"
 
44'  |  3-5 F. Lisquerva (DAL)
Ryxtylopia would get some breathing space on the 44th. Following a ruck near the midfield, Lardo Andreís Visquelpá would regain posession for the Pirates, making it into the dalimbari side. With several dalimbari players approaching him from the front, left and right, Visquelpá would pass to Lisquerva behind him, who went for a drop goal, scoring it, and bringing Ryxtylopia within 2 points of tying the match.
"Visquelpá makes it through with posession! Avoids Klavdiya! He's nearing the 20 meter-mark! Dalimbari players rush at him! Pass to Lisquerva, and LIS-QUER-VAAAAAAAAAA SCORE! SCORE! Lisquerva makes the drop goal, to bring Ryxtylopia back in the game!"
 
52'  |  3-12 N. Blago (DAL)
L. Ivica (DAL)
Dalimbar would amplify the lead on the 52nd. When coordinated passes between Albert Vasilka, Benedikt Jevrem and Matviy Mariya all connected to leave the ryxtylopian defense confused at the quick pace of the passes, with Mariya making the last pass to Blago nearing the ryxtylopian goal. Blago got past Rivas with little issue, making the try.
L. Ivica converted giving Dalimbar a total of +7 points.
"Vasilka forward! Now pass back to Jevrem! He dodges Mataña! Guilbirto tries catching up! Pass to Mariya! The dalimbari are close! Mariya could try to score or go for a pass! Pass to Blago, he's closing in, Rivas tries to- No! Score! Score! Score! Dalimbar! Blago gets the try after a chain of passes between Vasilka, Jevrem and Mariya!"
"Dalimbar has the conversion... They don't fail! Ivica converts for Dalimbar!"
 
59'  |  3-19 L. Ivica (DAL)
N. Blago (DAL)
Dalimbar scored again 7 minutes later, it would be none other than their captain, following several well timed tackles on R. Huichilca and L. A. Visquelpá that stopped the ryxtylopian attack in its tracks, turning around and booking it to score the try. Roman Aristarkh avoided tackles from F. Lisquerva and A. Mataña to then pass to Ivica near the middle. Dalimbar's captain stopping as R. Patochá ran in front of him and fell to the floor, before scoring the try.
Blago was in charge of the conversion,this time not failing and amplifying the dalimbari lead.
"Aristrakh with posession! Dalimbar is now acting more offensively! Lisquerva to tackle! Miss! Its up to Mataña! He can't tackle either! Aristrakh passes to Ivica it will be Patochá for the tack- NEVERMIND! SCORE! Ivica scores for Dalimbar!"
"Blago has a chance at redemption. He doesn't dissapoint! Dalimbar 19, Ryxtylopia 3!
 
65'  |  10-19 A. Guilbirto (DAL)
N. Blago (DAL)
Ryxtylopia makes some back on the 65th. Thanks to a heroic performance from Guilbirto whom managed to dodge Mikita Ajdin, Peter Srecko and Damir Siamion to make it to the goal and score the try. Guilbirto once again showing his agility and why he was one of Ryxtylopia's best.
Xilta converted to make it 10-19.
"Ruck and ball for Guilbirto! He's running as fast as he can! He doges Ajdin... He moves on! Dodges Srecko! He keeps running NOW DODGES SIAMION! WHAT A MAN ANDDD... SCORE! SCORE! SCOOOOOOORE! GUIL BIR TO! SCORES THE TRYYYYY!"
"Xilta has not missed a conversion in this campaign... AND TODAY'S NOT THE DAY! 10-19!"
 
75'  |  10-24 P. Srecko (DAL)
L. Ivica (DAL)
However five minutes before full time, Dalimbar sealed the deal. With a ruck near the ryxtylopian goal that the defense couldn't contain, with Srecko making it past Rivas to end Ryxtylopia's dream of reaching the final.
Ivica would miss the conversion, even with that, Dalimbar would only have to defend for the remainder of the match.
"Dalimbar on the counter! Ruck... that doesn't look good! Srecko with the ball and... Score! Dalimbar gets the try! It looks like its over! Ryxtylopia is about to be eliminated!"
"Ivica to convert, it will be another painf- Nevermind! Miss! 10-24!"
 
FULL TIME The match ended with half of the ryxtylopians chanting, the other half booing, as the Pirates got eliminated from RWC VI, but there was still a shot at winning bronze.
 
"Ladies and gentlemen, it seems the curse strikes again. Ryxtylopia knocked out in a semifinal! But there is still medals to be won, if we win against the other losers... United Adaikes."
"This was a very hard match to watch and will likely mean the end of Tivarra as head-coach of the ARR. But he can end this run on a high if he wins the bronze once again for our nation."
"That's all for today! Im Pablo Virriscayda, and you have watched TVNC! Ryxtylopia's best sports and culture network! Until then see you in the bronze medal match!"
 

Round 7 — Volta Azuil Grand Prix Pre-Qualifying Briefing
 
Round 7 Qualifying — Volta Azuil Grand Prix

 
 
Official Race Results – Volta Azuil Grand Prix

 
Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship
Championship Picture
Maric vs. Raikkovic: only 16 points apart — heading into the season finale duology in Ryxtylopia, it’s wide open.
Constructors: Zvesda’s consistency gives them a slight cushion, but Valkyrie’s pace still threatens if both cars finish cleanly.
CopperUA & Cambrias: now legitimate dark-horse contenders for P3 overall.

The quest for the Rugby World Cup final is over. The United Adaikes’ dream run was brought to a grinding, sobering halt by a masterclass in pressure from the defending champions, Zoran, who secured a 16-6 victory in a tense, brutal semi-final encounter.
From the outset, Zoran demonstrated why they are the reigning kings of world rugby. They strangled the Adaikesian attack, dominating territory and possession with a relentless kicking game and a suffocating defensive line. The free-flowing offense that lit up the early stages of the tournament was systematically dismantled, reduced to a series of scattered moments of individual brilliance that Zoran consistently snuffed out.
The final whistle brought dejected silence from the Adaikesian players, their dream of a second World Cup final extinguished.
A Final Chance for Glory: The Bronze Medal Match
The journey is not over. There is one more test, one more battle for pride, legacy, and a place on the podium. United Adaikes will face the tournament hosts, Ryxtylopia, who fell 24-10 to a resurgent Dalimbar in the other semi-final.
This Bronze Medal match is a story of redemption. For United Adaikes, it is a chance to salvage a medal from a campaign that promised so much more and to send their retiring legends out on a high. For the hosts, it is an opportunity to give their nation a triumphant send-off after the heartbreak of their semi-final defeat.
This will be a clash of wounded pride. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with a home crowd desperate to see their team finish with a medal. For veterans like Koby Rose, Hernan Jacobson, and Keira Hull, this is the final time they will pull on the national jersey. The motivation to ensure their storied careers end with a World Cup medal around their necks will be immense.
The path has changed, but the mission remains: win. For the nation, for the legacy, and for the fallen comrades like Tyrell Darwin who fought to get them here. One last time.

Results of the Semi-Finals for the RWC 6
United Adaikes 6–16 Zoran
Dalimbar 24–10 Ryxtylopia

Part 4
Clara and Lamar huddled around a computer in a program called SRU. It was the Viriarma's unified emergency call and incident reporting system. Lamar typed in keywords.
Men <or> Man, Gun(s), Uniform(s), Mask(s), Shooting, Woods
 
Incidents populated the messaging field. Two random phone calls and an in-person report were at the top of the list.
 
“I think we got our best leads,” Clara said. “Look. That guy even said he saw them holding rifles, shouting and moving in a formation.”
 
“Yeah, this guy said men were shouting in formation, holding each other’s shoulders,” Lamar said. Clara and Lamar looked at each other.
 
“Alright, I’ll put in the investigation requests,” Lamar said. Clara pulled her phone from her jacket pocket.
 
“I’ll get us a car. Meet me downstairs in 10,” Clara said. The two got to working on their duties.
Fragments of Interviews
SRU EVIDENCE FILE: 0001
Witness 1: Amelia Roche
Interview Taken On Street
Address: 342 Rue Gallant
Agentum, La Havre

BONNUIT: Alright Amelia, what did you see that day?
ROCHE: There were two or three men in a car. Like a white sedan. They were looking out of their windows towards the electrical power station on Rue Roulier. The big one for the neighborhood.
PORTO: Do you remember any of their faces? Maybe a license plate?
ROCHE: Not really. The windows obscured their faces. They sped off once they saw me looking at them. The license plate was weird, it looked like it had been hit by a car, but the rest of the car looked normal.
PORTO: Okay Amelia. What time of day was this, do you remember?
ROCHE: It was in the afternoon. I was walking to the top of the hill for Golden Hour, so pretty close to that time.
BONNUIT: I can search that up. We can keep going. We’ll need some more information for our investigation records, if that’s okay.
ROCHE: Yes, of course.
~~~
SRU EVIDENCE FILE: 0012
Witness 2: Helge Meibloem van der Woud
Interview Taken At Residence
Address: 9 Rue du Pionnier
Ense, Pics Rouges

VAN DER WOUD: Oh yeah I saw some clowns in the woods. Right over there.
PORTO: What do you remember from that day?
VAN DER WOUD: Well, one of them was screaming, in Hueveltonga, that he twisted his ankle. 
BONNUIT: That sounds like Wittehuis.
VAN DER WOUD: I went to my window and saw them. They weren’t in uniforms, but they were definitely trying to camouflage themselves. They had long rifles, and backpacks. At first I was afraid, but then I saw one of them had a workout shirt that said VIRIARMA. I know some of those men train in the woods to qualify for their tests, so I opened my window and asked if they needed help. They didn’t answer me at first, but then the man closest to me said they were okay, and they’d just help the guy back to base.
BONNUIT: If this is pretty normal, what made you report them to the police?
VAN DER WOUD: Well, there was a cute guy at the back of the line. But, what actually made me call was that when they did come close to look at the guy’s foot, they all had these weird marks on their hands. Big scars. They were covered in dirt too. I thought they were hurt worse than they were saying. I called for an ambulance. One came by, but the boys had gone away before they could reach me. I felt bad. I hope I didn’t waste anyone’s time.
PORTO: You didn’t Madame Van Der Woud. If I showed you a face, would you be able to tell me if you recognize it?
VAN DER WOUD: Absolutely.
PORTO: Showing face of suspect one, now.
VAN DER WOUD: Oh, it’s that young man. What a plum. He was there that day, definitely. I hope you don’t have any nasty plans for him, I might need to interrogate him as well.
~~~
SRU EVIDENCE FILE: 0026
Witness 3: Louis Flandin Greffier
Interview Taken At Residence
Address: 1 Ancienne Route de Canton
Eiken Nok, Pics Rouges

GREFFIER: Yeah I saw that poor bastard. In with the wrong crowd. I was in my deer blind, right? I had been waiting for a good one all morning, then I saw these damn baboons come right up under me. At first I thought they were poachers, but no. They start talking about nonsense, the fate of the free world, the great white race. I swear he sounded like the recruits who got the toilet bowl treatment back in the day. I’m sorry, a bit of a tangent, but really, whoever it was went on forever.
PORTO: You called them in as.
GREFFIER: White supremacist guerrillas. That’s what they were. That was what they were doing. They were moving in formation doing a reconnaissance exercise. Rucking it, in my neck of the woods. It’s a shame, really. Fit young guys. They would’ve made good soldiers if their heads weren’t stuck up their ass, but now? It’s all for drivel and shit you see on Brus. Believe me, I know where their head’s at. You don’t have a girlfriend, go to a rock concert and find a chick who’s just as horny as you. You’re broke as hell, mow some lawns, paint a house. No friends, join a club. You don’t go around killing Nurans and Aurans. You get your shit together and live your life. Hell, even if you had a little pecker you could pay a girl to breathe on it. Something, anything other than this.
BONNUIT: If we needed you to identify some faces, would you be able to do that?
GREFFIER: Sure as rain. We had to do memorization tests for hostile equipment in the Army. This’ll be a piece of cake.
BONNUIT: Do any of these faces stand out?
GREFFIER: There’s not enough people here.
BONNUIT: Come again?
GREFFIER: You’ve got six guys here. On that day I saw 24. All 24 had rifles and standard infantry equipment. Two served as lieutenants to a group leader stationed in the middle of the group. They moved in finger four groupings, giving each other dynamic overwatch. It was textbook clean stuff. A shame though, that they never checked for my box in the trees. I hid it pretty well. They should add identifying concealment to whatever Manual of Arms book they’re working off of.
BONNUIT: Thank you for this information, Louis. This will be very helpful for our investigation.
GREFFIER: Happy to serve my country one more time.
~~~

9 October 1425
10:00 IAT +1
Alisdulo'i, Zoran
Atsila enters the temporary meeting place of the Iyunadai, all the lawmakers standing as she walks to her seat at the front of the room. She turns to face the Iyunadai as she reaches her seat, her gaze passing over the room before saying,
"You all may sit."
The lawmakers bow, some begrudgingly as usual, and take their seats as she sits down in her chair. Standard procedure takes over, the mundane formalities that only an Overthinker would find remotely interesting, as the session begins. Atsila is already aware of what is being discussed today and what bills are to be voted on and she only decided to be present in this session because of one bill in particular, the Media Bias Bill. While she knows she has to respond to the Junaluskanist's organization's meddling in Ryxtylopia, she is still waiting on the investigation to turn up something the state can act upon. Thus she must focus on this bill, for its consequences are not one she wishes to deal with. While she could always veto the bill should it pass the Iyunadai, she knows she must use her veto power sparingly as she is, after all, a monarch in a country that always seems to be one step away from political unrest.
As the session goes on, debate after debate, the Speaker finally introduces the Media Bias Bill to the floor and the room descends into a cacophony of sounds. The Red Throne party members began banging on their desks in unison,
"Censorship!" cries one member,
"Bastards!" yells another,
Atsila rolls her eyes at the theatrics and chaos, longing for the volcanic hot springs of Gvhnage Dodalv that she had to leave behind. She watches as the Speaker struggles to bring order to the room, her voice drowned out by the shouting of the politicians. Atsila takes a deep breath and shouts,
"SILENCE!!!"
The lawmakers look at Atsila and quickly quiet down, surprised by her sudden outburst when she has been largely silent throughout the session.
"Thank you." Atsila says before looking over at the Speaker, "Go on, Madame Speaker, let's bring the proposal to debate."
The Speaker nods, flashing a thankful look to Atsila, as she officially opens the floor to debate. From there, it was a series of back and forths from both sides. The debates when about as Atsila anticipated, the Golden Crown party defended the bill by saying that establishing the proposed 'Agency of Media Regulation' would allow for media to remain independent by ensuring news outlets remain unbiased. Of course, as she anticipated, the Red Throne Party argued it would lead to potential abuses of power that would end up censoring the media rather than maintaining its independence. The often forgotten Republican Action Front argued against the bill saying that it would be an unnecessary intervention of government in the market and in the realm of media.
The debates continue until they reach their conclusion, but before the Speaker could move on to the vote, Atsila raises her hand to be acknowledged to speak. The room fills with whispers as they all wonder what Atsila has to say when it appeared to everyone that debates on the bill had concluded. The Speaker acknowledges Atsila who rises to her feet and addresses the room,
"Lawmakers, representatives of our citizenry, it is clear that this bill was crafted to address the uncertainty and chaos we all feel at times when it comes to the news and media we consume. While this bill may have good intentions, the ramifications it could have down the road might cause more harm than good. While it may be easy for some to say that the proposed agency in this bill would not be misused under my reign, we must think beyond my lifetime. I will not lead forever, though due to my age I may lead for many years, and we must consider the future with each and every bill we propose here. Just because I may not abuse the power I have been given does not mean that any of my descendants won't."
Atsila pauses for a moment, letting her words sink in,
"This bill is dangerous. I do not believe that direct government intervention will resolve the issues faced in the modern day with media, it will only lead to an ill informed populace. We must also consider the impact it will have on foreign news agencies, who may pull out of the country to maintain their voice and their independence. That would lead us to being an information black hole where our media consists of what is approved by a few bureaucrats without foreign perspectives to keep us in check. The answer to the problem, I believe, is not intervention but rather holistic policy making. Integrating media literacy in our education systems would serve us better in the long run by creating a more educated and aware populace who can think critically on what is presented to them, seek out other perspectives, and think for themselves rather than just consume the media of their choice only to repeat exactly what they have heard. Regardless of my thoughts, I will respect the will of the Iyunadai in this matter but I hope my words convince some of you that this is not the path forward. Thank you." 
With that she bows and returns to her seat, a weight having descended upon the room with her words. Some lawmakers furrow their brow in thought while others seem rather cowed by the queen's words. But it wasn't long before the Speaker called the proposal to vote and after an minutes of voting the result was clear, the bill was rejected. The Red Throne party and their coalition members applauds and cheers for their victory with even a few independent members of the Iyunadai joining in. Atsila stands up and walks over to the Speaker while the lawmakers are distracted by the outcome of the vote and whispers,
"Better get everyone to move on to the proposal of the ombudsman before the session ends. I will be taking my leave."
And with that, Atsila sneaks out of the room without too much notice. Her guards surrounding her as she goes on to deal with other matters.

[Free State Television – Live from Ryxtylopia]
Program: World Cup Focus
Host: Lazar Ignatiyev

[Opening shot: A roaring stadium in Ryxtylopia under the evening lights. Dalimbari fans wave blue flags, their chants echoing through the stands.]
Lazar Ignatiyev (on camera):
“Good evening, Dalimbar! This is Free State Television, coming to you live from the magnificent Istadio Franco Rivalda — and what a night it is! The air is electric, the sea of blue is endless, and the Boys in Blue stand on the brink of history once again.
After weeks of fierce competition, the champions of the 4th Rugby World Cup are here — in the gold medal match — facing none other than their long-standing rivals, Zoran. A rivalry that stretches back since the 2nd RWC, fueled by pride, power, and passion for the game.”
[Cut to highlights montage — Dalimbari tackles, tries, and defensive walls from earlier matches.]
Ignatiyev (voiceover):
“The road to this final has been anything but easy. On Match Day 1, Dalimbar began their campaign with a hard-fought 10–7 victory over Varanius, setting the tone with disciplined defense and raw determination.
Match Day 2 brought tension and grit — a 21–21 draw with Teralyon, where both sides refused to yield an inch. But the Boys in Blue regrouped swiftly, answering back on Match Day 3 with a commanding 18–10 win over Greiya, securing their place in the knockout stages.”
[Montage fades to clips of the elimination rounds — muddy fields, collisions, roaring fans.]
Ignatiyev (voiceover):
“In the Round of 16, Dalimbar battled Jerimiahia in a bruising contest, prevailing 11–6 in what many called a defensive masterpiece. Then came the Quarter-Finals — a narrow 7–6 victory over Nouveauterra, a match defined by heart-stopping tackles and that unforgettable late penalty that sent Dalimbari supporters into rapture.
And in the Semi-Finals, facing the host nation Ryxtylopia, the Boys in Blue rose to their best form yet — an emphatic 24–10 triumph, silencing a roaring home crowd and booking their ticket to this, the biggest match of them all.”
[Cut back to Lazar standing pitchside, the Dalimbari side practicing behind him.]
Ignatiyev:
“Now, all roads lead here — Dalimbar versus Zoran. Blue versus red. Pride versus barbarism. The world watches as two titans of rugby collide for the greatest prize in international sport.
The Dalimbari came to Ryxtylopia not just to bring home the cup, but to defend an ideal — the unity, discipline, and resolve that define our people. And as the anthem is sung on game night, every Dalimbari heart — from Saint Andreisburg to the distant frontiers — will beat as one.”
[Crowd chant swells — “Boys in Blue! Boys in Blue!”]
Ignatiyev (smiling):
“Stay with us here on Free State Television for full coverage, analysis, and live commentary. The Rugby World Cup 6 final — Dalimbar versus Zoran — kicks off shortly. For the Free State, for the blue and white, this is our moment.
From Ryxtylopia, I’m Lazar Ignatiyev — and this is World Cup Focus.”

Round 5 Qualifying – Steskia International Circuit (United Adaikes)
 
Round 5 — Race Results Steskia International (United Adaikes)
 
Post-Race Stewarding: Round 5 — Steskia International

 
 
Round 6 Qualifying - Perthdoches Racing Circuit, United Adaikes
 
Round 6 Race - Perthdoches Racing Circuit, United Adaikes

The quest for the Rugby World Cup final is over. The United Adaikes’ dream run was brought to a grinding, sobering halt by a masterclass in pressure from the defending champions, Zoran, who secured a 16-6 victory in a tense, brutal semi-final encounter.
From the outset, Zoran demonstrated why they are the reigning kings of world rugby. They strangled the Adaikesian attack, dominating territory and possession with a relentless kicking game and a suffocating defensive line. The free-flowing offense that lit up the early stages of the tournament was systematically dismantled, reduced to a series of scattered moments of individual brilliance that Zoran consistently snuffed out.
The final whistle brought dejected silence from the Adaikesian players, their dream of a second World Cup final extinguished.
A Final Chance for Glory: The Bronze Medal Match
The journey is not over. There is one more test, one more battle for pride, legacy, and a place on the podium. United Adaikes will face the tournament hosts, Ryxtylopia, who fell 24-10 to a resurgent Dalimbar in the other semi-final.
This Bronze Medal match is a story of redemption. For United Adaikes, it is a chance to salvage a medal from a campaign that promised so much more and to send their retiring legends out on a high. For the hosts, it is an opportunity to give their nation a triumphant send-off after the heartbreak of their semi-final defeat.
This will be a clash of wounded pride. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with a home crowd desperate to see their team finish with a medal. For veterans like Koby Rose, Hernan Jacobson, and Keira Hull, this is the final time they will pull on the national jersey. The motivation to ensure their storied careers end with a World Cup medal around their necks will be immense.
The path has changed, but the mission remains: win. For the nation, for the legacy, and for the fallen comrades like Tyrell Darwin who fought to get them here. One last time.

The quest for the Rugby World Cup final is over. The United Adaikes’ dream run was brought to a grinding, sobering halt by a masterclass in pressure from the defending champions, Zoran, who secured a 16-6 victory in a tense, brutal semi-final encounter.
From the outset, Zoran demonstrated why they are the reigning kings of world rugby. They strangled the Adaikesian attack, dominating territory and possession with a relentless kicking game and a suffocating defensive line. The free-flowing offense that lit up the early stages of the tournament was systematically dismantled, reduced to a series of scattered moments of individual brilliance that Zoran consistently snuffed out.
The final whistle brought dejected silence from the Adaikesian players, their dream of a second World Cup final extinguished.
A Final Chance for Glory: The Bronze Medal Match
The journey is not over. There is one more test, one more battle for pride, legacy, and a place on the podium. United Adaikes will face the tournament hosts, Ryxtylopia, who fell 24-10 to a resurgent Dalimbar in the other semi-final.
This Bronze Medal match is a story of redemption. For United Adaikes, it is a chance to salvage a medal from a campaign that promised so much more and to send their retiring legends out on a high. For the hosts, it is an opportunity to give their nation a triumphant send-off after the heartbreak of their semi-final defeat.
This will be a clash of wounded pride. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with a home crowd desperate to see their team finish with a medal. For veterans like Koby Rose, Hernan Jacobson, and Keira Hull, this is the final time they will pull on the national jersey. The motivation to ensure their storied careers end with a World Cup medal around their necks will be immense.
The path has changed, but the mission remains: win. For the nation, for the legacy, and for the fallen comrades like Tyrell Darwin who fought to get them here. One last time.

The quest for the Rugby World Cup final is over. The United Adaikes’ dream run was brought to a grinding, sobering halt by a masterclass in pressure from the defending champions, Zoran, who secured a 16-6 victory in a tense, brutal semi-final encounter.
From the outset, Zoran demonstrated why they are the reigning kings of world rugby. They strangled the Adaikesian attack, dominating territory and possession with a relentless kicking game and a suffocating defensive line. The free-flowing offense that lit up the early stages of the tournament was systematically dismantled, reduced to a series of scattered moments of individual brilliance that Zoran consistently snuffed out.
The final whistle brought dejected silence from the Adaikesian players, their dream of a second World Cup final extinguished.
A Final Chance for Glory: The Bronze Medal Match
The journey is not over. There is one more test, one more battle for pride, legacy, and a place on the podium. United Adaikes will face the tournament hosts, Ryxtylopia, who fell 24-10 to a resurgent Dalimbar in the other semi-final.
This Bronze Medal match is a story of redemption. For United Adaikes, it is a chance to salvage a medal from a campaign that promised so much more and to send their retiring legends out on a high. For the hosts, it is an opportunity to give their nation a triumphant send-off after the heartbreak of their semi-final defeat.
This will be a clash of wounded pride. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with a home crowd desperate to see their team finish with a medal. For veterans like Koby Rose, Hernan Jacobson, and Keira Hull, this is the final time they will pull on the national jersey. The motivation to ensure their storied careers end with a World Cup medal around their necks will be immense.
The path has changed, but the mission remains: win. For the nation, for the legacy, and for the fallen comrades like Tyrell Darwin who fought to get them here. One last time.

Results of the Semi-Finals for the RWC 6
United Adaikes 6–16 Zoran
Dalimbar 24–10 Ryxtylopia

The quest for the Rugby World Cup final is over. The United Adaikes’ dream run was brought to a grinding, sobering halt by a masterclass in pressure from the defending champions, Zoran, who secured a 16-6 victory in a tense, brutal semi-final encounter.
From the outset, Zoran demonstrated why they are the reigning kings of world rugby. They strangled the Adaikesian attack, dominating territory and possession with a relentless kicking game and a suffocating defensive line. The free-flowing offense that lit up the early stages of the tournament was systematically dismantled, reduced to a series of scattered moments of individual brilliance that Zoran consistently snuffed out.
The final whistle brought dejected silence from the Adaikesian players, their dream of a second World Cup final extinguished.
A Final Chance for Glory: The Bronze Medal Match
The journey is not over. There is one more test, one more battle for pride, legacy, and a place on the podium. United Adaikes will face the tournament hosts, Ryxtylopia, who fell 24-10 to a resurgent Dalimbar in the other semi-final.
This Bronze Medal match is a story of redemption. For United Adaikes, it is a chance to salvage a medal from a campaign that promised so much more and to send their retiring legends out on a high. For the hosts, it is an opportunity to give their nation a triumphant send-off after the heartbreak of their semi-final defeat.
This will be a clash of wounded pride. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with a home crowd desperate to see their team finish with a medal. For veterans like Koby Rose, Hernan Jacobson, and Keira Hull, this is the final time they will pull on the national jersey. The motivation to ensure their storied careers end with a World Cup medal around their necks will be immense.
The path has changed, but the mission remains: win. For the nation, for the legacy, and for the fallen comrades like Tyrell Darwin who fought to get them here. One last time.