Zoran

(This is a collaborative post made by me and @Varanius) 14 July 1424 10:00 Auran Standard Time Zygotia, Varanius Sarah Finn grumbles as she reads the latest updates on the C-Tech investigation in Zoran. This is clearly a covert attack against her, the zoranian government didn’t seem to have any interest in C-Tech before she secured her leadership of the country; but, they won’t be so confident soon enough. The door opens and several military advisors enter the room with various files in hand. “Good morning, Madam Prime Minister, may the Most Ocular One’s glory brighten your day.” said advisor Eugene Vincent, “Yes yes, and to you as well. Now, do you have the plans for our liberation of the Darkesian?” asked Sarah, “Yes, madam, all the plans have been kept off of electronic devices too as you instructed.” said Eugene, “Excellent, now let’s go over the plans before we put them into action.” said Sarah excitedly, “First phase of the plan is to begin by moving our naval forces into the center of the Darkesian, establishing control over the waters around Galete (D5), Onego (D4), and Kahuwe (D3) using force against whatever pathetic excuse those three nations call a navy.” said advisor Shannon Lee, “There is no doubt that we will be able to steamroll any opposition posed by those three tiny nations but I bet by the time we reach Kahuweian waters we would draw the attention of Zoran.” said Sarah, “Yes, madam, we know that the current zoranian government has reaffirmed the continuation of the Ani-whatever doctrine and will come to the aid of those nations in the central of the Darkesian if they ask. But, we expect that they won’t resort to attacking our ships immediately as they would likely try to avoid war after just getting out of one. To us we can use this as an advantage to force them to back off if we keep using brinkmanship tactics.” said advisor Jonas March, “Good, I like the sound of this. Now what about the possibility of interference by those colonizers?” asks Finn, “From our estimates, the Giovannilandians will not likely intervene unless we directly threaten Andoliavilla, which won’t be until we move to phase two of the plan and invade Galete. In terms of the Markans, we will be far enough away from them in the initial stages that we are not likely to see them involve themselves militarily unless the Giovannilandians do. Both will likely try to work with the Zoranians at some point but considering the current tense relations between them and the Zoranians the outcome of a joint strike involving the three of them is unlikely. We predict that the Zoranians would tell both the Markans and the Giovannilandians to stay out of this due to their tendency of being very protective over the central Darkesian nations.” said Eugene. Sarah begins to chuckle with glee, this couldn’t possibly get any better, “Perfect, then let’s start phase one and get our ships out there.” ordered Finn, to which her advisors obliged. 15 July 1424 05:00 AST Darkesian Sea, off the coast of Galete A small fishing vessel has cast its lines and has started its long work day. The fishermen are working hard keeping an eye on the machinery and the lines. As the captain mops some sweat off his brow he looks out across the vast expanse of the Darkesian before seeing something in the distance. Ships, many of them but not just any normal ships, these were military vessels. He squinted as he looked closer at the flag of the ships and saw they were flying the yellow and white Varanian flag. He ran over to the helm and used his radio to contact the coast guard, “Hello sir, what is your emergency.” said the coast guard operator, “H-hello? Yes, I-I would like to report the sighting of Varanian military vessels in our waters.” answered the captain nervously, “Varanian ships? Are you certain about this?” “Y-yes! I saw their flag on the military ships with my own eyes!” “Very well, sir, we will send a plane out to confirm. What are your coordinates?” “They are-” But as he was about to give the coordinates the boat began to rock violently and a crashing noise could be heard from outside the cabin. “Sir, is everything all right?” asked the operator, “I-I’m sorry, something happened outside, I have to check it out!” answered the captain, “No no no, wa-” but the operator was cut off as the captain put down the radio and ran outside only to find that his boat had been crashed into by a Varanian destroyer, the ship right next to his, “HEY!” he yelled in galetian, “YOU HIT MY BOAT! WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING OUT HERE!?” A varanian soldier came to the side of the boat and looked down at him with a confused expression on his face, “WHAT ARE YOU SAYING? I DON’T UNDERSTAND YOUR GIBBERISH!” exclaimed the soldier in Varanian, “ARE THOSE EVEN WORDS? I DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU ARE SAYING!” he yells back, The varanian soldier just walks off to find someone on the ship who speaks common and the sea boat captain does the same, when the two return they both have someone who speaks common. The captain relays what he wants to say to the sailor who spoke common and he says, “MY CAPTAIN SAYS YOU HIT HIS BOAT AND ASKS WHAT YOU GUYS ARE EVEN DOING HERE?” the Varanian soldiers then converse with each other a bit before the other soldier that spoke common answers, “YOU SHOULD HAVE STAYED OUT OF OUR WAY! THESE ARE VARANIAN WATERS, THEY ALWAYS HAVE BEEN!” The sailor and the captain converse with each other with concern before the sailor yells back, “ARE YOU CRAZY! THESE ARE GALETIAN WATERS! GET OUT OF HERE!” The two soldiers converse before responding, “CLEAR OUT BEFORE WE USE FORCE!” The captain and the sailor began to panic and instead of fighting they decided to pull in the nets and return to shore. The captain then went and made a report to the coast guard and it didn’t take long before this reached the ears of the Galetian government. They sent out a patrol boat out to scout for the varanian ships and after a few hours of searching the ship managed to locate them. But as the ship approached, two of the varanian ships began firing their water cannons at the ship. The crew tried to continue onwards but the pressure just became too much and they were forced to retreat. When the ship returned, the Galetian government made a public statement officially denouncing the varanian government for their actions. 15 July 1424 21:00 Over Time New Zoradia, Zoran Atsila was about to finish up her work for the day when Minister Agaluysdi rushed into the office along with General Adahihi and Chancellor Yenuha Aditsi. Atsila looked at the three of them with concern, “Oh no, what’s the problem?” she asked, “The varanians!” exclaimed General Adahihi, “The Gawetehó:nǫʼ (Galetian) government has denounced the Varanian government for sending their fleet into their waters. When they sent the coast guard to investigate they were blasted with water cannons. Supposedly, they are also stopping fishermen from fishing as well, claiming that they are fishing ‘varanian waters’.” said Minister Agaluysdi, “Oh for the love of-I am guessing that Gawetego:ke (Galete) wants us to uphold our commitment towards their defense?” asked Atsila, “Yes, they are asking us to send ships over to intimidate them into leaving.” said Minister Agaluysdi, “Adahihi, what is your take on the situation?” asked Atsila, “I am going to be honest, I think we should hold off on taking action. If their ships start harassing O:negowa:gwa' (Onego) and Kahuwe:yóke (Kahuwe) as well then we need to spring into action. I recommend that we tell them that we will start mustering our forces and say that there are some logistical delays on our end when they inquire.” “I agree,” said Chancellor Aditsi, “this will also buy me some time to try and prepare a strategy for uniting the iyunadai should conflict become a possibility. There are definitely going to be certain parties calling for more immediate action such as the Pan-Aniwvwiyai Party and the Darkesian Liberation Front. You can also probably expect some criticism from the Junaluskanist party for allowing ‘imperialists to start to harass our Darkesian brothers and sisters.’” “That is to be expected…all right, let’s do that. Keep an eye on the situation, inform the Gawetego:ke of our decision, and try to come up with a way to unify the iyunadai.” Atsila said to the three of them. They bowed and left the office, but Atsila began to think of what to do in the case of a war in the Darkesian, the thought haunted her in her dreams. 16 July 1424 08:00 Over Time New Zoradia, Zoran Atsila was in her office, as usual, when General Adahihi and Minister Agaluysdi barged into her office, “The situation has gotten worse. The Varanians have been spotted off the coasts of O:negowa:gwa' (Onego) and Kahuwe:yóke (Kahuwe) last night!” exclaimed General Adahihi, “What!” Atsila exclaimed in surprise, “How many ships do they even have!? Surely not enough to cover that much area all at once!” “No, we suspect that this is the same fleet making patrols around the region. But we have received reports that this fleet is claiming for the entire area to be Varanian waters. I think they are trying to establish control in the area to make a naval invasion easier in the future.” said Adahihi, “It is possible but I still say that it is rushing to conclusions. General, dispatch our fleet to the region.” ordered Atsila, “But, Your Majesty, the fleet still isn’t complete. We have most of the ships we ordered as part of the reconstruction program, but the two carriers won’t be complete until 1426 and the final batch of destroyers won’t be complete until next year!” exclaimed Adahihi, “I know, but our goal is to try and intimidate the Varanian navy into leaving the area without the use of lethal force. If there is to be a war with Varanius we are not starting it now.” “I see what you mean…very well. I will do that at once.” with that General Adahihi bowed and left the room leaving Atsila with Minister Agaluysdi, “What is the general sentiment among the Aniwvwiyai nations?” Atsila asked, “To be very honest, they are worried. It might just be those three nations now but they fear that the Varanians might grow ambitious and expand across the Darkesian.” answered Agaluysdi, “Do the Varanians even have a navy big enough to accomplish such a task?” “I don’t know but I think that once our fleet engages, we need to encourage unity between ourselves and the Aniwvwiyai nations. If we want to successfully deter the possibility of a Varanian invasion we need to find a way to tie ourselves to their nations. As it currently stands, our people are not likely to support a decision to go to war in the defense of the Aniwvwiyai as outside of the old declaration made by the GDC we have no real obligation to do so. To craft an alliance with them would take too long as it would be a series of negotiations and then having the iyunadai agree to all the terms.” “Then what do you suggest?” asked Atsila, “I see an opportunity to further deter Varanius and also ensure our control of the Darkesian while also having a potential war with Varanius have more support amongst the public.” said Agaluysdi, “Well, spit it out. What is this idea?” “We hold a summit with the other heads of the Aniwvwiyai nations and discuss the possibility of unification.” “What?” “You heard me.” “Are you crazy! That would possibly take longer than alliance negotiations! Not to mention it would likely be met with opposition from other nations!” “It is risky but if it works out we would be able to have significant sway over trade through the Darkesian and ensure the region’s security. Not to mention that it would deter any other military threats against the Aniwvwiyai nations in the future.” “But do you just expect the other Aniwvwiyai nations to just agree to this? They have smaller populations and would likely not be represented in the government properly.” “We can figure that out if we go forward with this idea and negotiate with the other states but my question to you is should I broach the topic with them?” Atsila thought about this for a minute, hesitant to make a decision on this so soon but she was also curious about what the other nations would say. “Go ahead and broach the idea with them. Keep an eye on the situation and report back any new developments.” ordered Atsila. Agaluysdi nodded and bowed as he left the room to fulfill his orders. Atsila took a shaky sip of water as she worried about the possibility of an all out war in the Darkesian.

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Ooooooooh boy, where do I begin. We started working on the new routines yesterday and it has already started to turn into a ****show. The equestrian act had issues with the horses running off, result in all of us having to hunt down the horses in the countryside and getting into a fight with a horse farmer who believed one of our horses was his. The juggler insisted on juggling the plates from the balancing act...only to break the plates and forcing us to get new ones. And the dog act wanted to work with cats instead...which actually went surprisingly well but the cats keep scratching the hell out of everyone. And then there is me, as the circus clown I have been working with the Ring Mistress to create the story for the show that will be going on between acts...and the Ring Mistress wants to create a WINTER THEMED SHOW in the SUMMER in a COUNTRY THAT DOESN'T EXPERIENCE WINTER! I keep telling her this but she doesn't seem to listen. I lean against the bathroom wall and look into the mirror in my bathroom, wearing the only well maintained clown suit I have with fresh makeup on my face. I look at myself and wonder why I am still part of this circus, sure it wasn't a bad gig years ago but these days it has become a drag. I knew I should have gone into finance like my mother wanted me to before I ran off to clown school twenty years ago. That is when there was a knock at the bathroom door, "Ahuli! Hurry up in there! I really gotta go!" yells Gatlin, "Yeah yeah, don't worry I will be out soon." I say as I give myself one last look over in the mirror before exiting the bathroom and made my way to the the communal kitchen to see if what I could pilfer from the fridge only to run into Citlani who was busy making some eggs. "Morning, Citlani. You and the acrobats figure out your routine yet?" I ask out of politeness, "Morning Ahuli! Yes, we have a rough idea on what we are going to do for the performance. Any breakthrough between you and the Ring Mistress?" she asks, "No, we can't agree on a single thing regarding what to do with the show." I grumble, "Oh dear, well do you at least have an idea on what you are going to be doing?" she asks with a hint of concern in her voice, "Yep, going to pull out the ooooooool' joke book." I say as I light another cigarette, "Oh no, not that joke book. It is a decade out of date, Ahuli." she says with dismay, "No it's not," I say as I draw on my cigarette, "making fun of the Markians has never gone out of style in Zoran. Like why do they even have so many furs when we both live in the tropics!" "Ahuli," she says disapprovingly with a frown, "they go by Markans and while people like to poke fun at them your jokes need to update along with the show. People don't want to see a clown that simply recites jokes, they want a showman who exercises various kinds of comedy styles." "Oh god, please don't bring up excercising to me. I failed Phys ed in secondary school!" I say snarkly, "Ahuli, I am being serious!" she exclaims, "If we want the officials to give us the subsidy we have to bring our best to the table. Maybe incorporate a little bit of all the acts into your routine." "There is no way I am going to perform acrobatic stunts." I object, "But you might have expand your skill set to be more creative with your comedy! You have said yourself that you have started to get bored with your routine so why not find that creative spark again. Incorporate a bit of acrobatics, juggling, horseback riding, illusions, and more! You are going to need some practice but maybe it can revive your joy for the circus." I thought about what she said for a minute, wondering if it was going to be worth the trouble and the effort. I let out a sigh as I realize that she was right, "All right, fine. I guess I can pick up some things to make the act more entertaining. Know any good acrobats?" I ask, "Hmm, I don't know," she says with a smirk, "depends on if you are going to be nice to the acrobat." "Oh come on, I am always nice. I am known for my politeness and my observation of social etiquette." I quip back, "I guess you're right," she says, "I guess I can teach you some things. But don't smoke your cigarettes when I am teaching you." "Uuuuugh, fine...thanks Citlani." I say begrudingly, "You're welcome." she says as she serves herself the eggs she was cooking. Having forgotten what I had come into the kitchen to do, I left the room with an empty stomach as I thought about how I was going to physically be able to learn enough from each act to incorporate it into my routine. Of course I go ahead and agree to an idea without thinking about whether it was physically possible to do it. I am sooooooo screwed.

The people have asked and now they have received! Leader of the Junaluskanist Party, Junaluska Wesa, has finally published the Junaluskanist Manifesto for all to read! The manifesto contains details on the demands that the proletariate have been fighting for in the country and what the party will fight for in the future! Many members of the party have been asking what the true manifesto of the party was and what Junaluskanism was truly about and now they have their answers. The manifesto goes into detail defining the role of the party in the fight for the permanent revolution and how the common worker had been oppressed during the Zoranian Corporate Era. But it goes even further and expands upon this, noting how corporations around the world have been exploiting workers and how the politicians of many nations who claim to be fighting for the working class are truly just puppets of the bourgeoisie. It even gives some examples of countries that have sold out the working class to the soulless corporations such as Min-Su and Nouveauterra. In terms of the actual ideology of Junaluskanism, the manifesto provides us with details on the idea of permanent revolution and how Zoran should fund and support other workers revolutions around the world to bring about the final goal of true communism. It also stresses the idea of a united front against far-right politics and nationalism which seeks to undermine the freedom of the working class and divides humanity based on the backwards ideas of race and nation. But while we can go on and on about the contents of the manifesto and sing its praises, you can go ahead and read it yourself! today! Sign up here to receive your copy of the Junaluskanist Manifesto free of charge, because we believe that all should have access to knowledge without barrier of payment. Liberate yourself from the chains of capital today and order your copy of this revolutionary manifesto.

Another day...another disappointing performance. Every day it has been the same since the revolution kicked the corporates out of the country. All the rich people who funded the Circus Conservatory are all gone now...no one wants to support the arts anymore. People these days are too excited by their new high wages and the baubles they can now afford to even think about going to the circus. Which leaves me, oooooooool' Ahuli the Clown to be stuck in the poorly maintained circus grounds as I smoke my cigarette outside the old Corporate Era dorms. "'Ey Ahuli, the Circus Director is calling a meeting." says Gatlin the strong man, "We still have a director?" I asked snarkily, "Come on, Utsasgv, he says it is some good news for once!" encouraged Citlali the acrobat, I roll my eyes and get up to follow them, my huge red shoes squeaking as I go to the old torn up big top tent. Who knows? Maybe some light will shine upon ol' Ahuli once more. As we entered the tent, the stench of old hay and stale popcorn hits my nose. While any normal person would wrinkle their nose at such a smell I just continue on as normal. The circus hasn't had money to keep a janitorial staff for a few months now. Or...wait...maybe it has been a year now, I forget. Anyways, in the center of the circle was the circus director, Danuwoa Tsiyi, holding what appeared to be a piece of fine stationary. "Hey boss, what's that fancy piece of paper you got there?" I ask mildly interested, "Ah Ahuli, thank you for joining us!" he asks in his annoyingly cheerful tone, "Yeah yeah...where do I sit?" He gestures to the rotted benches that my coworkers were sitting on and I joined them, taking a drag on my cigarette as I did. "Well, with Ahuli, Gatlin, and Citlani here, I can now reveal the news! I have recently sent in an application to the Office of Culture and the Arts for their subsidy and we have been chosen as candidates!" said Danuwoa excitedly I perked up at that news, surprised at the fact that the government would consider our rusty old circus to be worthy of the subsidy. But then I focused on the word "candidates". "Now wait a second!" I interject, "The letter said we are 'candidates', how do we actually receive it?" "Well, we have to give a performance to the director of the OCA and several others so they can determine whether we are worth the subsidy." answered Danuwoa, "Oh ****, we are so screwed." I sigh, dragging my hand down my face in disappointment. "Come on, Ahuli!" says Citali, "We might have a chance to save the circus!" "...But what chance do we actually stand here! We haven't had a new routine since the Revolution!" "Then let's start making one!" exclaims Danuwoa excited, "Yeah! Come on, Ahuli! Give us a smile!" encourages Gatlin, who proceeded to slap me in the back with his full strength, sending me falling to the ground. "Oooooooh boy," I say with my face in the ground, "this whole process of trying to get a subsidy is going to suck isn't it."

4:00 PM Over Time 8 July 1424 New Zoradia, Zoran “This is an outrage!” exclaims Sasa as she slams her fist down on the conference table in front of her fellow Brave Talon lawmakers, “Does this queen have no pride in her heritage? In her culture? No! She is just a puppet of those pinko commies in the Red Throne Party!” The lawmakers yell in agreement with Sasa, “Our plans for the cultural centers may have hit a roadblock with the queen’s threats but they have not been squashed! From the Polaris to Nur, the inferior xenos will know our superiority! They will learn that every word has its roots in Zoranian!* We will show them!” her fellow lawmakers start rhythmically banging on the table in support of Sasa’s fervor. But the fervor dies down when a knock comes from the conference room door. Everyone turns to watch as a young courier enters the room, “Which one of you is the leader of the,” the courier checks the letter, “Brave Talon Party?” Sasa walks up to the courier, “That would be me, who is this letter from?” “A tall scary man with a big walrus mustache!” says the courier, “...So you have no idea?” asks Sasa to which the courier nods, “I can’t answer any more of your questions, lady. I have to go!” the courier runs out of the room and down the hall, leaving Sasa and her lawmakers very confused. Sasa carefully opens the letter and begins to read its contents, her eyes light up in surprise. “What is it?” asks a lawmaker in the room, “Well, it appears we have some powerful benefactors of the party. Their only request is that we keep the country on its toes.” Sasa says in a delighted tone, “Do we know this supporter?” asks another lawmaker, “I will keep that to myself.” says Sasa before she returns to the front of the conference room. She couldn’t keep the smile on her face as she continued her denouncement of the current Zoranian government and discussing the policies they will push for in the coming days. The Dalimbari may be from an inferior haplogroup and culture but I won’t say no to any money they will throw our way. 8:00 AM Over Time 9 July 1424 New Zoradia, Zoran A small conference hall in the city Junaluska gavels the meeting with his fellow Junaluskanist lawmakers to the iyundai into session. “Good morning, everyone. Thank you for attending today’s meeting on short notice. First thing on the agenda is a debrief on the results of my meeting with Atsila Ani’-Wah’ yesterday. I proposed to her our idea of the Office of Workers Liberation and was met with rejection!” the room erupted in grumbles and jeering, cursing Atsila’s name, “Yes, I know. I am equally as frustrated as you. This serves as a reminder that this ‘queen’ is not a true ally of the revolution and why the institution of monarchy in Zoran must be destroyed!” “If this so-called ‘queen’ won’t support our proposal then we must fund the project ourselves!” yells someone from the crowd of lawmakers. Junaluska was about to support them but he turned pale as he recalled the queen’s threat from the day before. “Soon, but not now. The bourgeois queen will be watching us closely for some time so we must wait. But in the meantime, we must start spreading our message of permanent revolution beyond the borders of Zoran in more…peaceful ways. Does any one of you have any update on getting The Red Star newspaper off the ground?” said Junaluska, “The first issue should be released in three days, Juna. Our party members have it all written up, they are just getting the website set up.” said Lawmaker Amouskositte Cheasequah, “Perfect, make sure we spread as much awareness about it when it is published! This will be a first step in spreading our message and getting more supporters within and without the country!” a murmur of agreement spread amongst the lawmakers in the room as Junaluska speaks. But there is one objection in the room, “What even is our manifesto, Juna?” begins Amouskositte, “You talk a lot about spreading the revolution, the destruction of corporations, and the dismantlement of the capitalist system but these are very broad and basic. What is Junaluskanism? Is it just whatever you feel like at the time?” Junaluska smiles, “It’s good that you bring that up as I have finally completed the writing of the Junaluskanist Manifesto!” Junaluska pulls out a small red leather bound book from his inner coat pocket and holds it up in the air with one hand, “This book contains what our party is fighting for, the demands of the proletariat, the denouncement of the capitalist system, and the policies we are fighting for! I have brought copies for all of you to have for yourselves and have personally paid the expenses to have copies of our manifesto to be present in all our party offices in the country!” Cheers erupt from the crowd, with the exception of Amouskositte who sat in his seat with a frown. Junaluska notices this and smirks at him as he basks in the praise from his party members, confident in the future of the party and the revolution, even with Atsila’s threat looming over him.

3:00 PM Over Time 8 July 1424 New Zoradia, Zoran Atsila leaned back in her chair as the phone call with the Minister of Treasury came to an end and checked her schedule to see what she had to attend next. When she read over the appointment she groaned as she saw the names “Junaluska” and “Sasa” on the page. She massaged her temples in preparation for whatever ludicrous idea the two would present to her. I just passed their joint bill on the Childlessness tax, what more could they possibly want? That is when a fervent knocking came from the door and with a sigh she asked, “Who is it?” “It is I, Junaluska Wesa, commander of the Red Guard of the revolution…” said Junaluska from behind the door. Atsila rolled her eyes as she listened to him drone on about the accomplishments he achieved during the revolution that she was already aware of considering she was the commander of the entire Monarchist Army, “Yes, Junaluska, I get it. Please come in.” she interrupted after a minute or two. Junaluska opened the door and marched on in with open arms, “Thank you for allowing me this meeting, comrade Atsila!” Atsila suppressed her desire to cringe as he called her “comrade”, “Uhuh, now where is Sasa? She is supposed to be in this meeting too.” she asked with a disinterested look, “What? Sasa? Oh! Yes, Sasa. She is supposed to be here but I think we can continue witho-” he was then interrupted by aggressive knocking from the door, “JUNALUSKA, YOU COMMIE BASTARD” exclaims Sasa from behind the door before slamming it open, “YOUR CRONIES KEPT BLOCKING ME FROM ENTERING THE BUILDING!!!” Atsila glared at Junaluska who simply avoided her gaze and gave a faux yawn before he said, “I have no clue what you are talking about.” “Why you li-” “ENOUGH!” yelled Atsila as she rose from her desk, startling the two leaders of the political parties. Atsila sat back down and looked at the two of them before gesturing that they close the door and take a seat. “Now tell me, what did both of you want to see me about?” asked Atsila sternly, “Well, Comrade,” began Junaluska, “the party and I have discussed a proposal on what to do with the tax revenue generated by the Childlessness tax. We have a program that will put the money to good use!” “Uh-huh,” Atsila muttered, unimpressed by the pitch so far, “what about you, Sasa?” “Well my party and I have a similar proposal for what can be done with the tax revenue. One that will genuinely benefit the Zoranian people.” said Sasa excitedly, “Right…well you both realize that the only reason why I agreed to the tax was the assumed use of the revenue would be to further fund social security and healthcare, correct?” “Yes,” responded Junaluska, to the annoyance of Sasa, “but my party’s proposal will be a benefit to us as it can foster allies abroad.” “...I know I am not going to like this…but go ahead. Give me your pitch.” “Thank you, comrade! My party proposes that the revenue go towards the creation of a new office in the SIC called the Office of Workers Liberation.” “...I hate this already.” said Atsila with a frown, “Don’t be so hasty, comrade! This would be a great boon for the nation and the world! The office’s duties will be educating the ideas and principles of Junaluskanism abroad along with promoting and funding worker revolutions to achieve the goal of eradicating the bourgeoisie and capitalism! This could net us allies and supporters from the future socialist republics all around the world!” “...That is a terrible idea! Do you understand what ramifications that would have if it were revealed that our government was promoting unrest and funding terrorist groups in the world!?” exclaimed Atsila, “Ohohoho! They would not be terrorists, comrade, they would be revolutionaries like you and me!” said Junaluska pompously, “No! They would only be considered revolutionaries if they ended up winning and gaining international recognition! Otherwise, they would be classified as terrorist groups! To support and fund them or even get them started would make Zoran a state sponsor of terrorism!” exclaims Atsila, “Sasa, what does your party propose to do with the tax revenue.” “I am so glad you asked, Your Majesty!” said Sasa in a sing songy manner, putting emphasis on the “correct” way to address Atsila, “The Brave Talons and I believe that the tax revenue should be put forward towards a program that would establish Zoranian Culture Centers abroad in foreign countries.” “...Why would you ever suggest that? This sounds like too much of an innocent thing to be good.” asked Atsila in a confused tone, “Well that’s simple, Your Majesty, the goal of these centers would be to promote Zoranian culture abroad in order to show the xenos of foreign lands the superiority of Zoranian culture in order to make our inevitable domination of the world easier.” said Sasa proudly, “Aaaaand there it is, I knew it was too innocent to be anything good.” sighed Atsila, “But no! That is another terrible idea! I will not have taxpayer money be sent abroad to promote a message of racial superiority! That is just ludicrous!” “My proposal doesn’t look so bad now, huh comrade?” asked Junaluska smugly, “No! Your proposal is equally terrible! Both of you have just wasted my time with these horrendous ideas!” raged Atsila. But Junaluska’s and Sasa’s expressions soured at her words and Junaluska slammed his fist on her desk, “Now you listen here you bourgeois traitor!” exclaimed Junaluska, “The people of Esferos will not be safe from corporations and other bourgeois monsters if we do not support the fight against them! We will do this with or without your help, Atsila!” “And so will we!” interjected Sasa, “It is the destiny of the Zoranian people to once again assert their superiority over the other haplogroups and dominate the world! We will fund these centers ourselves if necessary and show the inferiors the inherent superiority of Zoranian culture!” Atsila’s jaw clenched, her nostrils flared, and she shot daggers at the two political party leaders. She slowly rose from her desk and rested her hands on the desk, “None of you will do either of those things, do you understand?” she began menacingly, “I have been tolerant of your parties’ existence since the Revolution but you have been pushing the limits of my tolerance. There is a line that you cannot cross and should you go ahead and attempt to go forward with these plans on your own then you will cross that line.” she started walking around her desk and got very close to the two political party leaders who seemed to have lost some of their boldness. “And when that line is crossed,” she whispers, “you will finally understand the fear that the Corporate officials and generals held in their throats when they learned they faced me in battle and the hopelessness they experienced in the courtroom as I delivered their sentences.” Atsila proceeded to back away slowly and returned to her seat at her desk. When she looked at the faces of the two politicians, the courage they once had to defy her was broken. Their skin was pale, their eyes widened with shock at the threat they had received. “C-com-” started Junaluska but Atsila cut him off with a raised hand, “No, enough. You are both dismissed. Please leave my office before I have the Royal Guard throw you out.” They both nodded quickly before they scurried out of her office. However, despite having successfully cowed their ambitions she knew that this would only temporarily deter them from pursuing their plans. But she did not wish to dwell on that thought and so she decided to take a few minutes for herself and play some swing jazz vinyls she has in her office to relax.

As of last night on July 6, 1424, Queen Atsila has given partial consent to the latest tax bill passed by the iyundai. The "Childlessness Tax," as it has been called, came as a surprise for many as it was proposed by the Junaluskanist Party and the Brave Talon Party, the radical ends of both side of the political spectrum in Zoran. I read through the bill, as amended after the Queen's vetos and here is what I found. The tax is a progressive tax on wages and dividends for most childless men from the ages of twenty-five to fifty years of age and most childless women from twenty to forty-five years of age. The amount paid by an individual depends on several factors such as annual income, assets, property, etc. said individual has. While many are concerned about the tax it must be said that there are certain exceptions. Students can apply for an exemption on the tax as well as anyone who makes less than a certain amount of adelv a month. The tax even takes into account medical conditions as those who are infertile are also exempt from this tax if they can provide proper medical documentation. Those who have also taken a religious vow of celibacy can apply for an exemption from the tax as well. It is well known that this tax was created to ensure that Zoran maintains its high fertility and birth rate but many are skeptical about how effective it would be. Critics argue that the tax puts unnecessary financial pressure on the youth and would result in a decrease in population growth. Supporters of the tax argue that the tax revenue can be used to provide even more services in social security and healthcare which can improve the quality of life in the country. However, the reasons given by the political parties on this topic are more ideological rather than practical. Junaluska of the Junaluskanist Party stated that the tax would "provide more fighters for the revolution" and that the tax would be progressive rather than regressive. His reason for this is that the "bourgeoisie have the money to have the choice of not having children to support themselves, such is the way of the ruling class and not the proletariate of Zoran." The Brave Talons, on the other hand, have argued that this tax will support "traditional family values" which have been "corrupted by the foreign influences that exerted control through the Zoranian corporates." It must also be noted that many of the vetoed articles of the tax were articles written by the Brave Talons Party that would bar LGBTQ+ people from adopting or having access to methods that would allow them to have children. Whether or not this will be a benefit or detriment on Zoranian society is to be seen and will be investigated in the coming years.

Transcript The broadcast begins showing Noya standing next to a Quiyakaso in crutches and whose face is covered in scratches. Noya: Hellooooooo Zoran! I am Noya Priscian. Quiyakaso: And I am Quiyakaso Gohalitsve and I am still very much alive, contrary to what some people believe. Noya: Yes...you know that you don't have to be working right now, right? We no longer have a set amount of sick days so you can take off as many da- Quiyakaso: I am perfectly fine, Noya! I feel as strong as an ox! Noya: If you say so...anyways, onto the recap! The Zoranian Sun Hawks won in their match against Peourouin, 32-14, meaning that there is still some hope for the Sun Hawks to qualify for the finals! Quiyakaso: There were some fantastic plays on both sides but the Sun Hawks seem to have finally found their rhythm after their match against Saint Mark and dominated the field. Will they keep this momentum going into their match against Arifiyyah? Or will they meet an unfortunate end during the match? Noya: ...That was very ominous, Quiya. You made it sound like they would actually be murdered. Quiyakaso: Hey, you never know. Maybe Dalimbar puts a landmine on the field to eliminate the competition. Noya: I don't think they would sabotage their diplomatic mission here by doing that. Quiyakaso: When it comes to rugby, nothing is off the table for them. They might send a hitman and cripple the team like that car crippled me. Noya: ...I think you are projecting a bit, Quiya. Quiyakaso: Maybe the Overthinking team will send a car and hit the Avadonialis team. Noya: Quiya...are you ok? I know this isn't the first time you have been hit by a car but I think accident is getting to you a bit. Quiyakaso: I am fine, no need to worry about me. Just getting my frustration out. Noya: ...Okay...well I think that is all from us. Have a great day, Zoran, and let's wish our Sun Hawks the best! Articles you may like:

2 July 1424 — The Zoranian Competition and Consumer Authority (CCA) has just announced that it shall begin to conduct an investigation against the Varanian technological company known as C-Tech. C-Tech owned and founded by current Varanian Prime Minister, Sarah Finn, is known for its products such as the eyePhone and eyePad which have grown in popularity over the years. However, allegations against the company's alleged data collection activities has raised concerns among private and public individuals in regards to privacy and national security. In response, the CCA has announced that it shall conduct an investigation into C-Tech devices to determine whether these claims hold any merit. Should this investigation turn up any evidence of data collection, the CCA will likely bring charges against C-Tech and a ban on the sale and use of C-Tech products are likely to be put into place. Some claim that this investigation have a more political motive behind them with the recent rise of Sarah Finn in Varanian politics and concern over her recent behavior in her first few days in office. With her fiery rhetoric and campaign promises that pose a potential threat to stability in the Darkesian region, one could easily imagine this act to be a subtle attack against her without openly condemning her. Whether Queen Atsila had a hand in starting this investigation is uncertain and she has refused to make a comment on the matter at this time.

11:00 Over Time 29 June 1424 New Zoradia, Zoran “...and based upon our reports, the Co-op Transition Program has seen huge successes in many industries in our country with productivity increasing along with the worker’s purchasing power as a result over the past three years.” said Minister of Labour A’uweyvi, “Thank you for your report, let me know by our next meeting about how well the co-ops are doing in comparison to other business models in the country.” said Atsila, “Of course, Your Majesty.” “Now,” Atsila began, “Minister Agaluysdi, do you have any foreign affairs updates for me today?” “Well, Your Majesty, the situation in Varanius seems to be progressing for the worst.” he answered gravely, “How so?” “Prime Minister Finn has made some serious changes in regards to executive staffing and judicial appointments. She has essentially purged major organs of the government and replaced them with loyalists. We are talking diplomats, military advisors, judges-” “Judges too?” interrupted Atsila, “Wouldn’t her opponents have voted against such removals and appointments?” “They’re isn’t much they can do, the Core voted 3 to 4 in favor of Finn’s appointments.” he said dismayed. The ministers in the room whispered in worried tones amongst themselves. “Why would they vote in favor? Are those members supporters of hers?” she asked, her tone heavy with suspicion, “No, this is sort of to be expected. The Core is a group of religious figures and considering Finn’s background it makes sense for them to back her.” “I see.” grumbled Atsila, “While we are on the topic of Finn,” interrupted Soyohata, “She is a tech entrepreneur or whatever, right? We know that the Corporates used to monitor conversations and use it to feed their algorithm for targeted advertising. We also have documents we seized from their former offices that contained their plans to use this to collect blackmail. I think she could be collecting blackmail on potential opponents to her rule.” “It could be possible,” commented Agaluysdi, “but without evidence this is simply a conspiracy theory. And even then, her opposition has very limited ways to oppose her decisions in terms of appointments.” “Whatever the case may be, it is clear that Varanius is on its way to becoming a dictatorship and considering her campaign promises this could mean trouble is brewing in the Darkesian.” said Atsila, “If it is any reassurance,” began General Adahihi, “usually a purge of the military like we believe to be happening in Varanius can cause some disorganization within the ranks for a period of time. I do not think that Varanius will try to strike anywhere in the Darkesian in the immediate future.” “You’re probably right about that. Let’s just continue to monitor the situation for now. While we are at it, let’s investigate the possibility of data collection and investigate C-Tech products and see if we need to issue a ban against the sale of those devices in Zoran for violating our privacy laws.” “Agreed, Your Majesty,” said Minister Agaluysdi, “now as we move on from Varanius, it seems that Dalimbar continues its efforts of showboating around Aura and Andolia with General Frank currying favor with the Overthinking government.” “Containing Dalimbar is Cambria’s job, not ours. Just have our ambassadors continue to express our disappointment in Saint Mark, Giovanniland, and Overthinkers for doing business with Dalimbar.” ordered Atsila dismissively, “As your wish, Your Majesty.” The meeting with her ministers continued as each minister spoke their piece about the affairs going on in the country and abroad, but all of them in the room grew worried about the growing situation in Varanius.

Transcript: Video starts showing Quiyakaso Gohalitsve and Noya Priscian standing side by side at a park with Quiyakaso holding an opossum in his gloved hands. Quiyakaso: Hellooo- Noya: Quiyakaso, why do you have an opossum in your hand? Quiyakaso: Oh! You mean my new pet? Noya: ...Yes...please tell me you at least adopted it like a normal person. Quiyakaso: Nope! I found it in this park and caught it! Noya: By the Spirit, no wonder why animals hate you! Quiyakaso: No no, this is the first time I ever caught an animal. Noya: ...You don't just go and catch wild animals to make them into pets, Quiyakaso. That opossum looks tiny too, it must be a baby! Opossum: Hissssss Quiyakaso: I am sure it will be fine, I will take good care of it! Noya: Yeah, no. I don't think that will even make it past customs when we leave Overthinkers. Quiyakaso: Oh I am sure it will work out in the end. Noya:...You know what, I am not saving you this time. Let's get on with the broadcast. Quiyakaso: You worry too much, everything will turn out ok! Now, clears throat. Hellooooooo Zoran! You are watching the Royal News Network, I am Quiyakaso Gohalitsve! Noya: And I am Noya Priscian and today we are reporting the results of the match between Zoran and Ryxtylopia. Quiyakaso: Despite it being a close match, unfortunately, the Zoranian Sun Hawks continue their unprecedented losing streak as they lost the match 8 to 12. Noya: The Ryxtylopians gave our team a run for their money during this exhilarating match but the Zoranian team, despite many good plays by some of its members, were unable to prevent the Ryxtylopian team from making the winning score. Suddenly, a large opossum falls from the tree above them and lands on top of Quiyakaso and begins to attack him. Quiyakaso: AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH! GET IT OFF OF ME! Noya: Quiyakaso! Be careful! Do not hurt the opossum! Just let your "pet" go and it might leave you alone! Quiyakaso: BUT I CAUGHT IT FAIR AND SQUARE! AAAAAAHHHHHHHH! Noya: Oh my-Sorry, folks but we have to cut our segment a bit short, we have to tend to Quiyakaso...again... Quiyakaso is then shown running towards a busy street in the background Noya: QUIYAKASO DON'T RUN THERE! Broadcast ends Articles you may like:

Transcript: Noya: Good morning, everyone! I am Noya Priscian and I am currently trying to find where Quiyakaso is. Camera Man: I thought he told you that he was going to get some fruit? Noya: He did but he didn't specify where. Camera Man: That...is never a good sign. Who wants to bet that he is currently getting arrested? Noya: He is no- ???: HEEEEEEEEEEELP! Camera Man: Did you guys hear that? ???: HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEELP! PLEASE! SOMEONE HELP ME! Noya: That sounds really close. sigh I swear if Quiyakaso is the cause of whoever is in distress. ???: NOYA! PLEASE HELP! UP HERE! Noya: Huh? Noya and the camera look up to see Quiyakaso stuck in a tree. Noya: What the...What are you doing up there!? We are supposed to be reporting about last night's match! Quiyakaso: I told you! I was getting fruit! He then holds up what appears to be an unripe apple. Noya: Oh my- QUIYAKASO! THAT ISN'T EVEN RIPE! PLUS, YOU CAN'T JUST TAKE FRUIT FROM THE PARK! Quiyakaso: Oh...well can you get some help? I am stuck in the tree. Noya: It is not that hard, Quiya! If you could climb up it then you can climb down it! Just carefully fell around with a foot as you climb down! Quiyakaso: I can't! I am too scared! Noya: sigh Fine! Just hang in there and we will fall the fire department. You are paying for any fines though! Quiyakaso: Please hurry! Camera moves back to face Noya who is simply pinching the ridge of her nose before looking back at the camera. Noya: I'm sorry about that, everyone, Quiyakaso is just having another one of his moments. During our first match day, the Nouveauterran team completely defied expectations and defeated the Zoranian Sun Hawks, 22 to 6. It was a well played game and a great debut match for the Nouveauterran team, but it is a sad sight for our Sun Hawks that they will have to make up for in their next match or they face elimination! The next match is one you don't want to miss as our Sun Hawks will once again face off against last World Cup's underdog's, Ryxtylopia, an exciting match to be sure. Will our Sun Hawks get revenge for last World Cup or will they experience another disappointing defeat as the former two time champion team falls into further decline? Only time will tell, I am Noya Priscian and you are watching the Royal News Network. Quiyakaso: Can someone throw me a plastic bottle? I really need to take a [bleep]. Noya: By the Great Spirit, Quiyakaso! Just hold it in! I believe in you! The fire department is on its way!

05:00 Over Time 24 June 1424 New Zoradia, Zoran Atsila sits in her office, eating her breakfast before her daily brief, wondering what sort of issues she needs to resolve today. I wonder who is going to be causing a fuss today? Will the Junaluskanists be making radical demands in the iyundai again or will it be the Brave Talons? Or will some nationalists be outraged after our rugby team’s defeat to the Nouveauterrans in yesterday’s match? As she is taking a sip from her glass of water a knock comes from the door, interrupting her thoughts. “Come in!” she says, Minister Agaluysdi enters the office carrying a file and bows when he reaches Atsila’s desk, “Good morning, Your Majesty. I hope my interruption of your breakfast isn’t inconveniencing you.” “Not at all,” she answers, “but considering this isn’t a phone call I assume it is urgent?” “Not exactly urgent but something that we may want to keep somewhat of an eye on.” he says as he hands the file to her. As she opens it up and reads through the document he says, “As I am sure Soyohata might have told you a while ago, the Varanians elected a fairly controversial figure as their prime minister, Sarah Finn. However, her rhetoric and policies might warrant us to keep an eye on Varanius as her political allies and her own ideas are jingoistic and nationalist.” “So I see, but do we have any idea if she is more than her words? Do you think she could be a risk to us, our allies, or the Aniyvwiya nations under our protection in the Darkesian?” “In terms of the Aniyvwiya I cannot say, but I can say that she will likely be increasing tensions with the Giovannilandians over the region of Andoliavilla. While I do not think she would be bold enough to really push into the Darkesian, we should monitor Varanius just in case and reaffirm our commitment towards the protection of the Aniyvwiya states.” “Very well, in that case let it be so. I will let you carry that out however you see fit. I personally don’t believe she will become of much concern for us but it wouldn’t help to be cautious.” she says before taking a bite of her tuya gaduhi (see molletes). “As you wish, Your Majesty. Have a good day.” he says before leaving the office, letting Atsila finish her breakfast in peace, a rare luxury for her these days.

Transcript: Quiyakaso: Hellooooooooooo Zoran! I am Quiyakaso Gohalitsve! Noya: And I am Noya Priscian! Quiyakaso: And we are reporting to you live from Overthinkers inside Merchen Stadium where the Zoranian Sun Hawks are set to play. Noya: This World Cup will be one you don't want to miss as our Sun Hawks are back with a vengeance according to recent statements made by Coach Amadahy Lvaguta on her social media these past few days. Quiyakaso: And they better do well because the amount of paperwork we had to go through in order to record here was a massive headache. It was worse than trying to film in Dalimbar! Noya: I would argue that Dalimbar was worse but I guess it is a matter of perspective. But back to rugby news, Coach Lvaguta has said that the newer members of the team have made some amazing improvements since the last World Cup and have learned a lot from the more experienced and senior players. Quiyakaso: Did they bulk up since then too? Noya: What? Quiyakaso: You know, have they built up more muscle so they can plow through the competition? Noya: I...I am sure they have. But what matters is that they improve their coordination as a team, which is something that Lvaguta said has occurred since Dalimbar. Quiyakaso: What if the team gets a giant and puts them in the center of the field. Noya: A giant? Quiyakaso: Yeah! Like Utana Ganetsi! A giant who will just stomp upon the opposing team! Noya: ...Quiyakaso, Utana Ganetsi is just a story...she isn't real...plus of all the giants you could have chosen, you chose the one who's defining feature is the size of her breasts!? Quiyakaso: Yes because she is the first one that came to mind. And I know she is just a story but...just imagine it! A giant on the Sun Hawks would be awesome! Noya: ...I don't know how your mind gets to these ideas sometimes. Quiyakaso: My creative genius is why I got hired in the first place. It simply cannot be restrained by conventional thought! Noya: ...Okaaaaaaaay...whatever you say, friend. Quiyakaso: We just need to recruit taller people to the team, get them jacked, and then unleash them upon our opponents! What is the average height in Zoran again? Like 172.72 cm (5'8") to 190.50 cm (6'3")? Noya: ...I don't know but that doesn't matter right now, Quiyakaso. We should all be looking forward to how our Sun Hawks will perform during this World Cup and cheer them on during their matches! Quiyakaso: And we should advocate for a team of giants to be made! Noya: ...No...just no. Quiyakaso: Come on, Noya! This is something that needs to happen! Noya: No, no it does not. *sigh* Anyways, that is all from us and we will see you all tomorrow! Quiyakaso: AND SPAM THE SUN HAWKS PLAYERS ABOUT THE GI- Noya: Gohalitsve! Don't make me call your mother and tell her about your antics again! The smile on Quiyakaso's face is quickly replaced with one of terror. Quiyakaso: ...Please don't tell Agitsi. Noya: Then stop encouraging the viewers to harass the team about your crazy scheme. Quiyakaso: ...Ok. Noya: Well then, with that settled. Thank you all for watching and we will see you next time