Orandia

Putting the map here to consolidate things.
Orandia's regional borders tend to be defined by environmental features such as rivers and mountain ranges. Warm-colored regions are mainly mountainous, yellow and green regions are dominated by forests, and purple and blue regions lie among Orandia's prosperous coastline. While each region has a unique name, the regional capitals are all anagrams of the name Orandia!
Some fun bits about the regions and their capitals:
-The name Haute-Claire refers to the many tall mountains in the region–the tallest in all of Orandia. Haute-Claire contains both the highest elevation and the highest-elevation city in the nation, the latter being the regional capital of Nordiaa. 
-Knapp is the heart of Orandia's agriculture industry. Farms and fertile riverbanks dot the relatively flat countryside here, and forested areas are still being cleared to make room for farmland.
-Naiador, the regional capital of Pala, sits beside a large lake. The local climate is so foggy that the city has gained a reputation for being mysterious. 
-The twin cities of Dianaro and Narodia are situated on twin peninsulas, connected by the nation's two longest bridges. They are also the regional capitals of Cople and Istul, respectively.
-Montrose is named for a species of pink wildflower that grows abundantly on mountainsides in the region, covering them with pink.
-Dainroa, a sizable port city, is the nation's largest exporter of fish.
-The forest, mountains, and coast all meet on the peninsula the Aidnaro region inhabits. The region and its capital share a name.

Putting the map here to consolidate things.
Orandia's regional borders tend to be defined by environmental features such as rivers and mountain ranges. Warm-colored regions are mainly mountainous, yellow and green regions are dominated by forests, and purple and blue regions lie among Orandia's prosperous coastline. While each region has a unique name, the regional capitals are all anagrams of the name Orandia!
Some fun bits about the regions and their capitals:
-The name Haute-Claire refers to the many tall mountains in the region–the tallest in all of Orandia. Haute-Claire contains both the highest elevation and the highest-elevation city in the nation, the latter being the regional capital of Nordiaa. 
-Knapp is the heart of Orandia's agriculture industry. Farms and fertile riverbanks dot the relatively flat countryside here, and forested areas are still being cleared to make room for farmland.
-Naiador, the regional capital of Pala, sits beside a large lake. The local climate is so foggy that the city has gained a reputation for being mysterious. 
-The twin cities of Dianaro and Narodia are situated on twin peninsulas, connected by the nation's two longest bridges. They are also the regional capitals of Cople and Istul, respectively.
-Montrose is named for a species of pink wildflower that grows abundantly on mountainsides in the region, covering them with pink.
-Dainroa, a sizable port city, is the nation's largest exporter of fish.
-The forest, mountains, and coast all meet on the peninsula the Aidnaro region inhabits. The region and its capital share a name.

Regional/cultural groups in Orandia (plus regional demonyms!)
Cultural groups in Orandia are largely divided by the environment in which they live. The modern regional borders took these differences into account when they were made.
Mountainous regions (Montrose, Haute-Claire, Embla): The Orandian royal family originated here, and these mountain-dwellers played a large role in unifying the nation. Many of their political trappings are reflected in Orandia’s current government, and many elements of their culture have seeped into others, for better or worse. These folk easily have the most influence over the nation as a whole, leading many of these people to develop superiority complexes, thinking of themselves as the best. So while they are the most influential in many ways, they are not always the best liked. 
What people do like, though, is Montrose’s famous pink mountainsides. Covered in pink flowers that bloom in late spring, travelers flock to see the beautiful mountains. Pick up any travel brochure about Orandia, and it’s likely to have a picture of these mountains front and center.
Regional demonyms: Montrosian, Hautian, Emblian. “Montie” is a casual, sometimes derogatory term that refers to someone from any of these regions, especially Montrose.
 
Coastal regions (North Coast, South Coast): The other cultural group that largely influenced modern Orandian politics. Invented the modern orandi. The eastern coast of Orandia is home to another famous part of the nation—its fishing towns. Its people are hardworking, but also fun-loving.  Dainroa and the South Coast coastline are popular vacation destinations for other Orandians.
There is a strong history of women in politics here—they are viewed as coolheaded and trustworthy. Many past Orandian prime ministers can call the eastern coast home.
Regional demonyms: Northern, Southern. If this gets confusing, just say “from the North/South Coast.”
 
Forested regions (Soris, Knapp, Pala): Indigenous to the forests of Orandia, these people were once isolated natives before making contact with their neighboring peoples. Because the way they govern themselves is highly localized, with each settlement dealing with their own issues themselves, they have contributed little to the modern Orandian political system. They care deeply for the environment, and strive to lead sustainable lifestyles. Recent agricultural developments have been encroaching on their forest homeland, and as a result they have made bigger and bigger efforts to preserve as much of the forest as possible. 
The Montes are making an effort to strengthen relations between themselves and these folk. Most notably, Ophelia Kihime, a young woman from Pala, is marrying into the Orandian royal family. 
Regional demonyms: Sorian, Knappan, Palan
 
Lakeside regions (Cople, Istul): Originally part of the same group as the forested regions, but has grown apart from it over time. Living near the lakes in southwest Orandia is warm and idyllic, and the people who live here reflect that. They have a reputation for being remarkably relaxed and carefree, and most importantly, happy. Their fertile soil means they produce quite a bit of valuable exports, and Orandians come from all over to vacation by the lakeside. 
Regional demonyms: Coplian, Istulian
 
Masly (Masly): Maslians are an odd lot. When Masly became part of Orandia, it was largely uninhabited. People from all walks of life and from all over the nation migrated to it, and it’s developed its own offbeat culture. Most folks here live in the countryside, and tend to want to keep things the way they’ve always been. They care for the environment and for the most part don’t make much noise on a national scale. However, the countryside does hide a good number of troublemakers and eccentric criminals, and the largely unfiltered news outlets of Masly have unintentionally sparked the creation of a popular Orandian meme, “Maslian Man.”
Regional demonym: Maslian
 
Urban (Aidnaro): Orandia’s bustling capital city is so large and diverse that it’s developing a culture all its own. Throw every group above into a big pot and mix it all up; that’s what Aidnaro is like. Some districts of the city are themed around a region or group, but for the most part, the distinct cultures that make up Orandia are well blended here. It’s a place where people from all over the country live shoulder to shoulder, among the most advanced technology and infrastructure in the nation. 
Regional demonym: Aidnaroan

Dramatis Personae (important people)
Prime Minister Queenie A. Astier: Born and raised in the capital metropolis of Aidnaro, Queenie (not to be confused with the Queen) is the youngest prime minister to date at thirty-two years of age. 
Queen Aurélie Enfeld: The current head of the Orandian royal family, situated in Nordiaa. Forty-two years old. Stern and serious, but cares deeply for her people.
King Félix Enfeld: Forty-four years old. Originally from Idonara, Félix married into the Orandian royal family twenty-two years ago. A once-lively man known for his grace and dancing skill, the death of his youngest daughter still saddens him greatly.
Crown Prince Alexander Enfeld: At twenty, carries the future of the Orandian royal family on his shoulders. Only serious because he has to be. Soon to be wed to a woman from Naiador (Ophelia). 
Princess Adora Enfeld: Sixteen years old, and cares little for the responsibilities of a princess. She puts up with the less fun parts of royal life grudgingly, but dreams of one day traveling the world and leaving her previous commitments behind.
Princess Andrea Enfeld: Would be thirteen currently, had she not died at age eleven from a heart condition. Despite her illness, which had troubled her since birth, she is remembered as an optimistic and resilient young girl.
Ophelia Kihime (soon Enfeld): Nineteen years old; a young woman from Naiador's upper crust. It is unknown whether her engagement to Alexander is for political or personal reasons, or a mix of the two, but the union will surely be beneficial in strengthening cross-cultural relations in Orandia.

"What's a motto with you?"

Nation Name: Orandia
Three-Letter Code: ORA
Two-Letter Code: OR
Capital City: Aidnaro
Government: Westminster system
Head of Government: Queenie A. Astier
Head of State: Queen Aurélie Enfeld
Currency: orandi 
Timezone: IAT (+0)

FINAL DAY–HEADLINES
- In the gymnastics team all-around, Orandia takes the lead in the qualifying round, but somehow places last in the final round with a total score of 262.250.
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team prevails against Blue Bubble, earning Orandia's final medal of this Esferiad: a bronze.
- Orandia has earned a total of twelve medals this Esferiad.
 
COMMENTARY
"Good evening, everybody, in case you don't already know, I'm Lex Lascar, reporting live for the last time from the Second Esferiad. Now, Orandia has had the fortune to see many of our athletes win medals, but today we are especially proud of our most recent acquisition: a bronze in indoor volleyball! Let's go live to the team right now, for some well-deserved congratulations!"
[The camera cuts from Lex in the studio to the Orandian indoor volleyball team, still in uniform and in the arena they recently played in. They're clustered together to all fit in the frame, but a rather short man, team captain Stéphan Hedevary, stands in front.]
Stéphan: "It's been a wild ride, this past week or so. There were a lot of points where we thought we weren't gonna make it this far, but today we managed to pull through, and I'm really proud of the team for that. I think we worked together especially well today, and that's what got us the medal." [He holds up his bronze medal.] "All right, Orandia on three! One, two, three!"
[The team cheers "Orandia!" Then, the camera cuts back to Lex in the studio. He's attempting to spike a volleyball. He hits it, and the ball goes straight up in the air, making a worrisome shattering noise. The ball drops to the floor, along with little shards of glass, and the spotlight that was trained on him has since gone out. Smiling awkwardly, he takes a few steps towards the other side of the studio, the camera re-angling to hide the mishap.]
"Erm, hello again! Just, trying out my moves! Anyway, the indoor volleyball team may have been the last to grab a medal, but they are certainly not the only ones to have done so. Let's check back in with the team. It seems like they've been joined by a few friends."
[Back with the team, the camera pans out to reveal more athletes–every Orandian athlete who won a medal this Esferiad. They wave at the camera, some chat with one another, all generally having a good time.]
"I think that concludes this year's coverage of Esferiad events. Closing ceremonies will be broadcast soon on this same channel, so feel free to stick around, but my time here is over. To all my fellow Orandians and anyone else who may be tuning in, I'm Lex Lascar, and I'll see you next year!"
 
CONGRATULATIONS
Berix Tomoiaga, bronze, High Jump
Carmen Moscovici, gold, Long Jump
Maiken Morstad/Sigrun Skyberg/Tove Rud/Axelle Reverdin, bronze, 4x200 Meter Relay
Lars Sandvik, bronze, discus throw
Roméo Azaïs, bronze, Gymnastics Floor
Roméo Azaïs, bronze, Gymnastics Balance Beam
Sarah Michaelson, gold, Javelin Throw
Orandia, bronze, Field All-Around
Lisa Zenik, gold, Gymnastics Parallel Bars
Roméo Azaïs, silver, Gymnastics Parallel Bars
Roméo Azaïs, silver, Gymnastics Vault
Indoor Volleyball Orandia, bronze, Indoor Volleyball
 
~Until the next Esferiad!~

FINAL DAY–HEADLINES
- In the gymnastics team all-around, Orandia takes the lead in the qualifying round, but somehow places last in the final round with a total score of 262.250.
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team prevails against Blue Bubble, earning Orandia's final medal of this Esferiad: a bronze.
- Orandia has earned a total of twelve medals this Esferiad.
 
COMMENTARY
"Good evening, everybody, in case you don't already know, I'm Lex Lascar, reporting live for the last time from the Second Esferiad. Now, Orandia has had the fortune to see many of our athletes win medals, but today we are especially proud of our most recent acquisition: a bronze in indoor volleyball! Let's go live to the team right now, for some well-deserved congratulations!"
[The camera cuts from Lex in the studio to the Orandian indoor volleyball team, still in uniform and in the arena they recently played in. They're clustered together to all fit in the frame, but a rather short man, team captain Stéphan Hedevary, stands in front.]
Stéphan: "It's been a wild ride, this past week or so. There were a lot of points where we thought we weren't gonna make it this far, but today we managed to pull through, and I'm really proud of the team for that. I think we worked together especially well today, and that's what got us the medal." [He holds up his bronze medal.] "All right, Orandia on three! One, two, three!"
[The team cheers "Orandia!" Then, the camera cuts back to Lex in the studio. He's attempting to spike a volleyball. He hits it, and the ball goes straight up in the air, making a worrisome shattering noise. The ball drops to the floor, along with little shards of glass, and the spotlight that was trained on him has since gone out. Smiling awkwardly, he takes a few steps towards the other side of the studio, the camera re-angling to hide the mishap.]
"Erm, hello again! Just, trying out my moves! Anyway, the indoor volleyball team may have been the last to grab a medal, but they are certainly not the only ones to have done so. Let's check back in with the team. It seems like they've been joined by a few friends."
[Back with the team, the camera pans out to reveal more athletes–every Orandian athlete who won a medal this Esferiad. They wave at the camera, some chat with one another, all generally having a good time.]
"I think that concludes this year's coverage of Esferiad events. Closing ceremonies will be broadcast soon on this same channel, so feel free to stick around, but my time here is over. To all my fellow Orandians and anyone else who may be tuning in, I'm Lex Lascar, and I'll see you next year!"
 
CONGRATULATIONS
Berix Tomoiaga, bronze, High Jump
Carmen Moscovici, gold, Long Jump
Maiken Morstad/Sigrun Skyberg/Tove Rud/Axelle Reverdin, bronze, 4x200 Meter Relay
Lars Sandvik, bronze, discus throw
Roméo Azaïs, bronze, Gymnastics Floor
Roméo Azaïs, bronze, Gymnastics Balance Beam
Sarah Michaelson, gold, Javelin Throw
Orandia, bronze, Field All-Around
Lisa Zenik, gold, Gymnastics Parallel Bars
Roméo Azaïs, silver, Gymnastics Parallel Bars
Roméo Azaïs, silver, Gymnastics Vault
Indoor Volleyball Orandia, bronze, Indoor Volleyball
 
~Until the next Esferiad!~

FINAL DAY–HEADLINES
- In the gymnastics team all-around, Orandia takes the lead in the qualifying round, but somehow places last in the final round with a total score of 262.250.
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team prevails against Blue Bubble, earning Orandia's final medal of this Esferiad: a bronze.
- Orandia has earned a total of twelve medals this Esferiad.
 
COMMENTARY
"Good evening, everybody, in case you don't already know, I'm Lex Lascar, reporting live for the last time from the Second Esferiad. Now, Orandia has had the fortune to see many of our athletes win medals, but today we are especially proud of our most recent acquisition: a bronze in indoor volleyball! Let's go live to the team right now, for some well-deserved congratulations!"
[The camera cuts from Lex in the studio to the Orandian indoor volleyball team, still in uniform and in the arena they recently played in. They're clustered together to all fit in the frame, but a rather short man, team captain Stéphan Hedevary, stands in front.]
Stéphan: "It's been a wild ride, this past week or so. There were a lot of points where we thought we weren't gonna make it this far, but today we managed to pull through, and I'm really proud of the team for that. I think we worked together especially well today, and that's what got us the medal." [He holds up his bronze medal.] "All right, Orandia on three! One, two, three!"
[The team cheers "Orandia!" Then, the camera cuts back to Lex in the studio. He's attempting to spike a volleyball. He hits it, and the ball goes straight up in the air, making a worrisome shattering noise. The ball drops to the floor, along with little shards of glass, and the spotlight that was trained on him has since gone out. Smiling awkwardly, he takes a few steps towards the other side of the studio, the camera re-angling to hide the mishap.]
"Erm, hello again! Just, trying out my moves! Anyway, the indoor volleyball team may have been the last to grab a medal, but they are certainly not the only ones to have done so. Let's check back in with the team. It seems like they've been joined by a few friends."
[Back with the team, the camera pans out to reveal more athletes–every Orandian athlete who won a medal this Esferiad. They wave at the camera, some chat with one another, all generally having a good time.]
"I think that concludes this year's coverage of Esferiad events. Closing ceremonies will be broadcast soon on this same channel, so feel free to stick around, but my time here is over. To all my fellow Orandians and anyone else who may be tuning in, I'm Lex Lascar, and I'll see you next year!"
 
CONGRATULATIONS
Berix Tomoiaga, bronze, High Jump
Carmen Moscovici, gold, Long Jump
Maiken Morstad/Sigrun Skyberg/Tove Rud/Axelle Reverdin, bronze, 4x200 Meter Relay
Lars Sandvik, bronze, discus throw
Roméo Azaïs, bronze, Gymnastics Floor
Roméo Azaïs, bronze, Gymnastics Balance Beam
Sarah Michaelson, gold, Javelin Throw
Orandia, bronze, Field All-Around
Lisa Zenik, gold, Gymnastics Parallel Bars
Roméo Azaïs, silver, Gymnastics Parallel Bars
Roméo Azaïs, silver, Gymnastics Vault
Indoor Volleyball Orandia, bronze, Indoor Volleyball
 
~Until the next Esferiad!~

HEADLINES–DAY THIRTEEN
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team loses to the United Adaikes. 
- All of Orandia's gymnasts pass the qualifying round for the vault event. Jules Beaufils suffers from a lopsided finish in the semifinal, earning him a meager 13.575 points.
- Lisa Zenik and Celeste Blanc finish tenth and eleventh, with respective scores of 14.825 and 14.775.
- Roméo Azaïs makes it to the finals, his flawless vault, scoring 16.325 points, earning him his (and Orandia's) second silver medal.
- Roméo places fifth in the all-around with 24 points. Lisa places seventh with 17, while Jules places 18th with 3. Celeste does not place.
 
COMMENTARY

"It's very easy for a good gymnast to walk away with multiple [medals]." –Lex Lascar, day nine coverage
 
LOOKING AHEAD–FINAL DAY
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team plays in the bronze-medal game against Blue Bubble. 
- Gymnastics team all-arounds take place.

A Magazine lays in a doctor's waiting room, all shiny and new. You have a weird back rash that needed to be looked at, and this magazine looked at you as you sat there in the waiting room, in pain.

You pick it up, recognising the lady as the leader, Mpitarika Kassakira Petrovikan. Turning to her interview, you raise an eyebrow. It is only one page, but then again she has already been called the woman of little words, so maybe it is not that surprising as you originally thought.
 
You have a quick skim, then hear your name. You put the magazine on the side and head in.
 
[Interview Transcript:
She led us to her small apartment balcony to host the interview, with the busy but seemingly distant street below us. I can understand why she doesn't want to move out for the Trano Vao. Her decision for the interview place strikes me with surprise - for someone who is not online, she is very open about what she is doing. Anyone could show up and take photos, or call out to her, but they don't. Her trust in our nation seems perfectly placed.
It is almost impressive how radiant she looks, as she sighs about her long day at work. It is mid-afternoon, I point out, and she smiles. "Time is dependent on the person, not the clock, my namako" she replies.
First, how are you feeling about winning the election?
Honestly, I am amazed, I was not expecting to win at all. I am new to politics, and with only being 29, I am now the youngest Mpitarika in history. I am glad my hard work has got me this far, and I am hoping that it furthers our country now.
I am sure the nation are in agreement. What first steps have you taken to kickstart your leadership?
I have already reformed the current assembly and have put some Pahefana in roles which suit them and what they care about. I think the biggest thing is the turnround of outside influence, introducing new ways for us to be involved. I know we mainly just stuck to trade deals in the past, but with boarders open for tourism, and more effort to join international events, I think we can really start to become something in the world.
They do say it is in your blood, tell me about your Glendon heritage.
It is very southern, which we know are not linked to the Lavandulan people as much as those who migrated north. I am very proud of my culture, and like most Glenpavians, I celebrate my ancestral holidays and follow the Fivavahana religion. Our heritage is unique, and I am hoping that strongly influences our turn into International relations.
Obviously, our nation is close to Giovanniland, and also the nation of Zoran. For our new international readers, would you like to comment on what is happening over there?
It is terrible, and I hope the nation can find peace soon. When the dust settles for them, I am happy to help them repair their country in any way needed. My heart goes out to those who are lost in the conflict, and I have already started a refugee scheme for those who appear on our shores.
Thank you for your time, Mpitarika
Thank you for yours, Tatitra
/End of transcript]

II Summer Esferiad Closing Ceremony
It was starting to get dark, and everyone was seated around Violet Lake. In the centre of the lake was a platform. It edged to 8pm, and everyone had started to get quiet. King Giovanni VI and Kassakira Petrovikan were sat on the bottom row, near a podium with a microphone. Lights shone onto a lonesome bed with a small child and their mother on the platform. The audience quietened immediately.
“Eny, can you tell me a story?” the child looks up at their mum.
“I can tell you something better, let me tell you a legend.” she replies softly, as the lights slowly dim again, and the drumming starts. 
[ https://open.spotify.com/track/4yhvv7KxIxiyDdCo8U3nX1?si=f741371e3cec4ea5 ]
Boats are gently lit up with red lights, each paddle causing ripples of colour as they start to move in sync around the platform. On each boat, people stand on the flat roof, performing a traditional dance of the Glendora People, stomping and shouting an ancient cry of warning. The boats start to move between each other, with dancers hopping from one boat to another. They approach the platform, and the drums start to finish. The platform lights up, showing Lavandulan style dancers. The music changes and they begin to dance, with the boats’ lights turning off. The Glendora Dancers merge and they begin to dance together. You notice that each dance has a different feel - the first was of strength and curiosity, the next of culture and understanding, and the final of acceptance and belonging. The moves become more like ballroom as the first boats quietly move away for another set of boats to arrive.
[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jECu9zNdVwI&list=RDQMVOaDjAEH98w&index=14 ]

The following set of moves depict the north and south divide, and the triumph of Giovanniland. Done gracefully, it showed Glendora dancers willfully following the Giovanni style performers, before a change happened. The boats coming into the platform were of Glenpavia resistance dancers, swapping with the Glendora performers in the style. They show the uprising, and the forming of the nation in interpretive dance. The platform was shown on screens above behind the audience, showing the platform depicting images and motifs of the era’s history.
[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRrP3ESM6sQ ]

Eventually, the song changes to a more modern one as they go though recent Blue Bubble events, like the military coup, the push for democracy, and opening of the borders. This final event started the athletes' entry, each country on as many open top boats as required, as the dancers left the platform. 
[ https://open.spotify.com/track/2IIhKqYJtVIH79183A9WCK?si=adace501514c4d6c ]
Each boat had the countries’ flag on the front, with some athletes choosing to sit during the ride. They were announced in Common only as followed, In Common alphabetical order, with the hosts at the end as per the opening ceremony:
Arifiyyah Dalimbar Dilber Fhaengshia Fuentana Fujai Hertfordshire and Jammbo Larxia Nagaraningrad Nieubasria Orandia Saint Mark Santos-Dominius Tara and Cambray Teralyon Tupmonia United Adaikes Glenpavia Giovanniland Once everyone had arrived at the centre, they walked onto the platform. The final medals were awarded, and Gabriello Hiberno-Elisano, President of the Quoriv & Kharventhin Organising Committee of the Esferic Games, and Chi Ijendu, Chair of the International Esferiad Commission, each gave a speech on the games.
A moment of silence was held for the deaths of athletes that had happened during the games, with small lights placed on the water by volunteers as a small act of remembrance. The screens cut to the flame in Giovanniland, as commentary states that water from Violet Lake is being used to put out the flame. Kassakira Petrovikan and King Giovanni VI then both announced the closure of the games, finishing with a firework display which glittered in the reflection of the water. The air was buzzing with delight, amazement, joy, and cheer, and that feeling kept long after the ceremony was over.

07/11/1421, 17:00 IAT - The Duchy Estate
 
Kassakira smiles in the mirror in the main ballroom as her brother runs behind her, throwing streamers on the chandelier.
"Honestly," she smiles "I like this more than the uniform for the opening cermony."

Kasper looks as he runs to get another set of streamers, "Yes! You look amazing, gonna make the king stutter!" he jokes
She turns to look at him, shocked, "Will you give up on this quest about getting me with another foreign diplomat or something!?"
He throws the pack at her "Of course, like I pretend that I dont see those looks Meklit gives you."
She looks at him shocked "What looks?" she replies catching the streamers, and opening it for him.
He gives her a smirk "Like you dont just rule this country, but also his heart."
She scoffs, throwing the open pack back "Why are you doing the set up for your party anyway?"
Kasper thumbles to get one out, and then throws it at the second chandelier "I fired like.. everyone. Only for the day like, but I thought a new start would help them"
Kassakira groans, walking over to help "Thats just a days holiday, genius... Let me find the ladder, or you will never be finished in time"

HEADLINES–DAY THIRTEEN
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team loses to the United Adaikes. 
- All of Orandia's gymnasts pass the qualifying round for the vault event. Jules Beaufils suffers from a lopsided finish in the semifinal, earning him a meager 13.575 points.
- Lisa Zenik and Celeste Blanc finish tenth and eleventh, with respective scores of 14.825 and 14.775.
- Roméo Azaïs makes it to the finals, his flawless vault, scoring 16.325 points, earning him his (and Orandia's) second silver medal.
- Roméo places fifth in the all-around with 24 points. Lisa places seventh with 17, while Jules places 18th with 3. Celeste does not place.
 
COMMENTARY

"It's very easy for a good gymnast to walk away with multiple [medals]." –Lex Lascar, day nine coverage
 
LOOKING AHEAD–FINAL DAY
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team plays in the bronze-medal game against Blue Bubble. 
- Gymnastics team all-arounds take place.

The Bauhaus Novel - Conversation Street - Episode 7: Autismo van Meeting

Well this is awkward. Not only has Mecislavs gone to the arenas to check up on the athletes (how's that for connecting with our people?) but Clarkov has blatantly refused to come on if it means he is on his own. Then again, even if Adaikesian President Luke Salazar miraculously got the 17-year-old, nearly 18-year-old, Prime Minister to open up, Jammbonevych Furutani is still the same shy cinnamon roll of a boy that Hertfordshire & Jammbo elected back in 1419. Bet he wasn't expecting that when it happened.
It took ages for Clarkov to finally start feeling comfortable, but once Salazar prized him open specifically with talk about the autistic acceptance scene in Hertfordshire & Jammbo he slowly began to warm up to the United Adaikes President, who promised to send an elite team of personality specialists & the like to see just how the number one country for autism acceptance & general neurodivergence acceptance does things. Clarkov takes immense pride in being autistic, amplified due to the time he was relentlessly bullied in secondary school for being autistic, so Luke pressed the right buttons there.
Now, don't tell him, but we've rummaged through Clarkov's special occasions drawer of online pictures that he looks at when he wishes to either calm down or enjoy himself. We do not apologize for the potential weirdness in these whatsoever, but think of it this way - not even Tsar Mečislavs is allowed to look through them. He is very private.

Online pictures we found in Clarkov's special occasions drawer - pictures of athletes, fanfics of athletes, AB/DL, age regression, fan-made drawings of athletes, memes, etc. were found - he hopes to be able to do these himself one day. Creators are unknown. Except for picture 6, the athletes themselves took that.
So with Clarkson, Hammond & May still not back after their frankly doomed protest, we thought we'd catch up on something and give you all a ranking of how our athletes performed day by day, starting with Day 1 below. Best to worst, from top to bottom based on position and how much they punched above their weight. Enjoy and an early goodbye before the late goodbye.
 
Day 1 - Athlete Rankings

1st = Vekar Griķis - Event: Individual Taekwondo - Expected Stage: First Round | Current Stage: Semi-Finals - Net Position: 1.25th | Net Expected Position Gain: +8.75 | ("The Aurans can fight back! Well, I don't like that!")

2nd = Rantaro Antonenko - Event: Individual Equestrian Dressage - Expected Overall Position: 11th | Actual Overall Position: 1st - Net Position: 0.53rd | Net Expected Position Gain: +5.26 | (NEW ESFERIAD RECORD HOLDER) | ("Kill without being caught, and then survive the trial... sounds eerily similar to the real world.")

3rd = Diavolo Kucherenko - Event: One-Person Dinghy Sailing - Expected Overall Position: 19th | Actual Overall Position: 4th - Net Position: 1.43rd | Net Expected Position Gain: +5.36 | ("I must crush my fear! Now is the time... I must overcome it right now! That is what it means to live!")

4th = Franziska van Kirilova - Event: One-Person Dinghy Sailing - Expected Overall Position: 28th | Actual Overall Position: 7th - Net Position: 2.50th | Net Expected Position Gain: +7.50 | ("Tsk, tsk, tsk. Mr. Phoenix Rait. I grow tired of the foolish foolery of the foolish fools of this foolish country...")

5th = Frisk Dachev + Robert Spïďwagen - Event: Beach Volleyball - Expected Overall Position: 8th | Actual Overall Position: 2nd - Net Position: 2.50th | Net Expected Position Gain: +7.50 | ("Your face seems to be asking "Who's this?", so let me introduce myself! I'm the meddling Spïďwagen!")

6th = Doppio Kostov - Event: 200m Freestyle Swimming - Expected Overall Position: 50th | Actual Overall Position: 16th - Net Position: 3.20th | Net Expected Position Gain: +6.80 | ("Roger that. Following your orders [Diavolo's] is my reason for living as well.")

7th = Josuke Honcharuk - Event: 200m Freestyle Swimming - Expected Overall Position: 5th | Actual Overall Position: 7th - Net Position: 1.40th | Net Expected Position Gain: -0.40 | ("Who the hell am I?")

8th = Ringo Romanyuk - Event: 10m Air Pistol Shooting - Expected Overall Position: 50th | Actual Overall Position: 16th - Net Position: 1.90th | Net Expected Position Gain: +2.86 | ("Welcome...to a real man's world...")

9th = Yukari Yaremenko - Event: 10m Air Pistol Shooting - Expected Overall Position: 16th | Actual Overall Position: 6th - Net Position: 2.86th | Net Expected Position Gain: +4.76 | ("That's too bad. I don't, since my tea's scent doesn't fade. Ever.")

10th = Patrick Manev - Event: Individual Archery - Expected Overall Position: 3rd | Actual Overall Position: 6th - Net Position: 1.67th | Net Expected Position Gain: -0.83 | ("Witness the power... of GUILT!")

11th = Phoenix Rait - Event: Individual Archery - Expected Overall Position: 6th | Actual Overall Position: 7th - Net Position: 1.94th | Net Expected Position Gain: -0.27 | ("But who do you fight for? How hard must you fight...? That's the true measure of what human life is worth.")

12th = Hertfordshire & Jammbo Artistic Swimming Team - Event: Artistic Swimming - Expected Overall Position: 9th | Actual Overall Position: 4th - Net Position: 3.33rd | Net Expected Position Gain: +4.16

13th = Isaac Myroshnychenko - Event: 200m Freestyle Swimming - Expected Overall Position: 49th | Actual Overall Position: 31st - Net Position: 6.20th | Net Expected Position Gain: +3.60

14th = Naho Sotirova - Event: Individual Taekwondo - Expected Stage: Semi-Finals | Current Stage: Semi-Finals - Net Position: 2.50th | Net Expected Position Gain: -1.88 | ("Happiness and unhappiness are linked. Whenever one attempts to gain good fortune with little effort, there is always a risk.")

15th = Klug Nankov - Event: Individual Equestrian Dressage - Expected Overall Position: 18th | Actual Overall Position: 12th - Net Position: 6.32nd | Net Expected Position Gain: +3.16 | ("I won't hold back.")

16th = Hertfordia Baseball - Event: Baseball - Expected Overall Position: 1st | Actual Overall Position: 10th - Net Position: 8.33rd | Net Expected Position Gain: -7.50

17th = Hertfordshire & Jammbo Water Polo Team - Event: Water Polo - Expected Overall Position: 8th | Actual Overall Position: 12th - Net Position: 10th | Net Expected Position Gain: -3.33
Dio Burluka: You thought this report would be by the HNJEK, but it was me Dio! Oh and Faust is here too.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: I'm only here because you told me that this was what I had to do, that it was my mission.
Dio Burluka: Frankly after winning gold the way we did, we deserve to be able to do this.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: Not sure who really cares but alright. Either way, the past, present and future are all held in my hands. This time, I will show you the future, the brilliant future that will be born, thanks to my hosting efforts aided by the greatest partner in existence, Twisted Tempo.
Dio Burluka: There you go again with that Tempo thing. We know it exists.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: Some say that he knows 2 facts about the JoJo's and both of them are wrong, and that because Naho Sotirova rigged a phone vote, her mentor Kou now owns the rugby trophy I won... and all the players. All we know is, she likes that man to a fault.
Dio Burluka: Faust, that was my job!
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: Need me to show you that Rugby World Cup I trophy?
Dio Burluka: At least I, Dio, can keep hold of what is mine.
Day 6 Event Schedule (Done Already
Events/Ívents Athletes/Àølīts 4 x 200m Medley Relay Swimming Volodymyr Zelenskyy + Horatio Niedra + Lazarus Myroshnychenko + Kokichi Osis 10,000m Track Lockdown Melngailis, Douglas Mednis, Shirou Fomenko Field Shot Put Shinji Ivanyuk, Yoshikage Kramlis Equestrian Team Jumping Jolyne Cishisheva + Miko Tymchuk Coxless Fours Rowing Robert Cherganski + Mark Kronbergs + Mikhail Faustinov + Reimu Hadjieva Tennis Doubles Finals Dio Burluka + Faust Ḩarełeudeiem Baseball Quarter-Finals Hertfordia Baseball Beach Volleyball Quarter-Finals Frisk Dachev + Robert Spïďwagen Water Polo Matchday 6 Hertfordshire & Jammbo Water Polo Team Basketball Matchday 6 Hertfordia Basketball Handball Matchday 2 Hertfordia Handball Federation Lacrosse Matchday 2 Hertfordia Lacrosse Indoor Volleyball Matchday 1 Hertfordia Volleyball Federation Day 7 Event Schedule (Coming Up)
Events/Ívents Athletes/Àølīts 10km Marathon Swimming Goomo Sachev, Athena Cālīte 110m Hurdles Track John Tinchev, Bello Jēkabsons, Miles Endziņš Field Discus Throw Quote HT, Franklin Chaban Coxed Eights Rowing Hertfordshire & Jammbo Rowing Team Individual Fencing Epée Stage 1 Kyle Hadjiivanov, Naomi Niedra Baseball Semi-Finals Hertfordia Baseball Beach Volleyball Semi-Finals Frisk Dachev + Robert Spïďwagen Water Polo Matchday 7 Hertfordshire & Jammbo Water Polo Team Basketball Matchday 7 Hertfordia Basketball Handball Matchday 3 Hertfordia Handball Federation Lacrosse Matchday 3 Hertfordia Lacrosse Indoor Volleyball Matchday 2 Hertfordia Volleyball Federation Field Hockey Matchday 1 Hertfordia-Jammbo Hockey Football Matchday 1 Hertfordshire & Jammbo Football Federation Rugby Sevens Matchday 1 Hertfordshire & Jammbo Rugby Union  

More stuff from Jammbonevych Furutani's special occasions drawer! Hah! This covert assault on the Prime Minister's privacy proves that I, Dio, should reign supreme over The Bauhaus Novel. Also, we wonder when Clarkson and the other two will return. The second picture really should be the HNJEK's spirit animal or something along that calibre.
 
         

The show cuts to Jak and James, sitting on the sofa
 James: And here we are, with the Mpitarika Kassakira Petrovikan
Kassakira walks on, waving and smiling, before taking a seat.

James: How are you?
Kassakira: I am fine, thank you
Jak: and why are you here today?
Kassakira: Firstly, to let you two know you can continue your normal schedule and predictions a-
Jak hits a button, and a loud bang is heard. Balloons and streamers come down as the presenters cheer, along with what sounds like the rest of the production team. Kassakira looks at it all, startled.
Kassakira: I wish you had told me you were going to do that
Jak: well there is a big red button, what else you think that was?
Kassakira: I really didn't want to think of the possibilities... how long did it take you two to do this?
James: the whole of yesterday. We were out of breath by the end of it.
Kassakira smiles: Well, the other news is that the Komity will release a notice about the athletes tomorrow. No one was suspecting Blue Bubble to be top of the leaderboard for almost the whole week, until today actually, so I and the Komity wanted to address some concerns before any rumours started to crop up.
James nods: So, tomorrow we will be back to our normal acts, and with our normal co-host, Kasper. By the way, what was he doing yesterday?
Kassakira: Oh, that is so classified, even I don't know. May I do the quick run over of today?
Jak: Of course
Kassakira: Well today was a small medal show, but I like to think it is great that we are still winning medals - the momentum is great. Lanino Hanyan won silver in the 10,000m run, and Ivani Haskan won Bronze in the Shot Put. Our Rowing Coxless Fours Team won Silver as well, well done all four of you on your teamwork there. On the look-out for tomorrow, we have the 10 km Marathon Swim, 110 m Hurdles, and Discus Throw to be expected middle of the table and no medals, the Rowing Coxed Eights should be close to a repeat today when looking at the forecast. Fencing Épée Individual Stage 1 should be fun, a full team. I will be watching in person, and I wish the guys well on that, although a bronze is what is predicted that could be possible there, please try and win that for us! For ongoing multiday events, tomorrow we have the Semifinal Beach Volleyball and day 7 of Water Polo, along with day 2 of Indoor Volleyball, congrats on today's wins for all 3 of those. New multiday events tomorrow for us are the Field Hockey and the Rugby Sevens. I wish them luck too.
James: what a wonderful insight, thank you for that and for joining!
Kassakira: You're welcome!
The camera cuts to highlights of the day.

IT'S THE FINAL

Meet the 23-year-old Basric student stuck in Rosel: ‘I’ve made some mistakes’
By Marc Phoase  •  Updated: 11/07/1421

A 23-year-old student from the Saint Aiaden claims he is stuck in Rosel after flying to a nearby airport and ridesharing into the city on holiday last Monday.
Haf Bernard, a business student at the Tamaric University of Saint Aiaden, reportedly flew into a small regional airport outside Rosel on Monday 1 November via connecting flights though Saint Josalyn. 
He booked the trip in October 1421, despite advice from the Estates MInistry for the Overthere and the Estates-Ministry for Astorian Union cautioning against travel to the city due to the ongoing seige actions by the Honourable Lord Merec. This month Bernard discovered he could not refund his trip, so decided to get on the flight as planned, believing that he would be able to leave before fighting or the siege was executed.
However, despite warning from the Kingdom's Armed Forces, Bernard failed to evacuate the city before the deadline. He found himself unable to fly out of the city yesterday, posting on social media that he was in a “bit of a pickle”. He describes the locked down, blacked out city as "eerie". 
The Estates-Ministries for the Overthere and Astorian Union have since released a joint statement that they will not be taking any actions or seeking special accommodation from the Cambrians for Bernard, and are in full support of Lord Merec in his execution of Imperium. 
Bernard it seems, may have to wait and see if his thrill-seeking will cost him. 
 

Estates-Minister of Astorian Union Adhamh Ferrer to attend Union Summit on AI, diplomatic reception hosted by Queen Téa in Cambria
News Release | Clarendon | November 7, 1421 | The Office of Estates-Minister of Astorian Union Adhamh Ferrer, issued the following statement:
The Most Honourable Ct.Esq Adhamh Ferrer, PC, Estates-Minister of Astorian Union will be travelling to Saint-Mattis, Cambria. He attends the Astorian Partnership on Artificial Intelligence Summit on November 14 and afterwards a reception at the invitation of Queen Téa and her officers. The Estates-Minister will meet with his international counterparts as well as stakeholders across representing various sectors and interests within the alliance to discuss opportunities for partnership and investments in the Astorian Union to help drive a sustainable development across AU borders.
For more information, media may contact: Alba Oriol, Senior Equerry Personal to the Estates-Minister of Astorian Union at alba.oriol@em-au.nb
Nieubasria strongly condemns attempted assassination of Daskellian prime minister
Statement | Clarendon | November 7, 1421 | Jur.Cerdik Sperys, PC, Estates-Minister for the Overthere, issued the following statement:
“Nieubasria strongly condemns the attempted assassination of Daskel's Prime Minister, on November 7. We are relieved that the prime minister remains in good health. We wish a prompt recovery to those injured.
“Terrorism, violence and other illegal acts have no place in the state-building process. Nieubasria will continue to stand with the people across the globe for the peaceable and productive solutions to democratic disputes. The Estates-Ministry echoes the Prime Minister's call for calm and restraint.
“Now is a time for all politicians to demonstrate leadership, engage in dialogue, and find solutions for the good of all of Daskel.”
 
 
 
 

Quorivo, Lavanda Prima, Giovanniland—08:00 AM International Atomic Time, 6th November 1421
"Wake up, everyone!", told Matteo. "The hotel breakfast is ready, and last time I stayed in the Deversorio Hortensia it was really good."
It was a sunny Saturday morning, and once the blinds were opened, rays of sunlight entered the bedroom of the Settimo-Nerani family.
"Ouch," complained Flavio, as he grabbed a pillow to hide the light from reaching his eyes. "Can't we wait just a bit more?"
"Come on, let's go!", Angela said. "There's a lot to do today, we can't wait much more." The others then gave in, and in a few minutes were ready to go downstairs to the hotel's breakfast room, just on the right of the foyer and main entrance. 

There was the breakfast room. It was nicely decorated, and the family chose a table just besides a bouquet of beautifully arranged violet flowers.
"Let's see what the breakfast is today," thought Flavio.
"Hmm, some grapes, bananas, melons, oranges, apples, watermelons... I'll take an orange and a slice of melon," said Angela.
"Those sandwiches surely do look nice," noted Augusto. "I think that's what I'll eat today."
"And wow, these chocolate and passion fruit pies look very beautiful! I don't think these existed last time I was here, so I'll taste some of it."
After getting their breakfast, the family sat down in the table and started eating. More and more people entered the room and time passed; the breakfast room would close at 10:30 AM.
As Angela finished eating the fruits, something caught her attention. There was a pile of several newspapers and magazines just to the right of the table.
One with flashy crimson letters said "Quotidiano Quorivano". It was from the 1st of November, almost a week before, but nevertheless Angela chose to read it. The headline was particularly notable—Interview: Giovannilandian Athletes Sweep the 110m Hurdles Podium.

"This interview looks very interesting," thought Angela as she finished reading. "There have been other Giovannilandian podium sweeps since that one, but nevertheless it seems those four athletes are now well celebrated for the first one ever. Could there be another one today...? There must be a reason I happened to see this newspaper just today."
"Ooh, looks interesting," remarked Flavio. "Can I read it?"
Angela agreed, and her younger son started reading. Just after that, Matteo asked everyone: "So, which events are we watching today?"
"I think it would be interesting to watch something different today, what about Road Cycling Time Trial? The Via Firkella Herennio isn't that far from this hotel, we just need to drive a bit to the south," proposed Angela.
"Nice idea, when does it start?" asked Augusto. "We need to go to the Stadio Sferiko Rege Giovanni VI to watch the Giovanniland v. Nieubasria football semifinal later today..."
"Oh, the road cycling event starts at 13:30 PM, we should able to lunch, watch this event, and then go to that stadium at 16:00 PM to watch the football game," said Matteo.
"I like this plan!", Flavio agreed. The family then finished breakfast, stayed on the hotel for a while, and then got ready for lunch and for the road cycling event.
Via Firkella Herennio, Quorivo, Giovanniland—13:00 PM International Atomic Time, 6th November 1421
"So, we've finally arrived!", exclaimed Angela.
"Indeed, let's take our seats," told Matteo. The family had reserved some seats just before the starting point, so that they could also see the athletes starting and ending.
The event soon started, and athletes raced alone as they were sent out in intervals, instead of a mass start. An Esferiad official announced the name of each cyclist in alphabetical order and gave them a heads up so they could prepare.
Giovannilandians applauded as the nation's athletes started: Manuella Violetone, Priskilla Linare-Vitale, Tadeo Remo Bellieno and Umberto Hibernio.
It was a lengthy road, although a screen displayed updates of where the athletes were. After one hour, they started to come back. Another screen updated the rankings as they finished.
Soon, the official announced the first Giovannilandian athlete to come back: "And Manuella Violetone has just finished, with a time of one hour, five minutes and twenty-five seconds!"
"Second place, very good," said Angela. "The first place at the moment, Ian Froome from Cambria, came just twenty seconds faster than her," added Matteo.
The family then cheered even more as Priskilla Linare-Vitale finished 1:03:05, two minutes faster than the previous first-place, and took the lead of the podium. But just a few moments later, they were even more impressed as Tadeo Remo Bellieno had outdone his fellow colleague with a time of 1:02:20.
"I think this is the prelude for a podium sweep," thought Flavio.
And in fact he was right, as Umberto Hibernio then finished with a time of 1:04:18, and the first three places were dominated by Giovanniland.
The family was very happy when the last athlete of the competition arrived, and the podium sweep was confirmed. The medal ceremony was staged right there on the open cycling road, a few speakers displaying the Giovannilandian anthem as three copies of the beautiful national flag were hoisted at once.
"Woohoo!", said Matteo. "I think the event has ended now, and it's almost 15:00 PM so we should get ready to go into the football stadium."
Angela thought to herself. "So there was in fact going to be a podium sweep... my prediction was correct! I feel like more lucky things are about to happen..."
The family then left their seats near the Via Firkella Herennio and went to the Stadio Sferiko Rege Giovanni VI.
Stadio Sferiko Rege Giovanni VI, Quorivo, Giovanniland—15:30 PM International Atomic Time, 6th November 1421

The family entered the stadium and found their four seats after some time. "This stadium is beautiful, those purple seats and fields really evoke the common violet and lavender fields here," thought Angela.
"This is way more crowded than the road cycling event, I guess Giovannilandians just like football more," noted Augusto.
"There are many Basrians here as well, I think in total there are 50 thousand people already," said Matteo. "What's the total capacity?"
"Should be 90 thousand, I know it's nearly the same capacity as the Arena Abrentana in Giovannia, which has 95 thousand," said Flavio.
"After all, this stadium was a new one built for the Esferiad, bears His Majesty's name, and will host the gold medal match, so it must have a lot of capacity," remarked Angela.
The game was about to start, with the Giovannilandian squad the same as the last match. Nieubasria's team was also nearly the same, but without Earc Velding, due to the unfortunate death that happened during the 1st World Cup of Football.
One of the referees then called the two captains and flipped a coin to decide the starting team. The Giovannilandian captain's choice allowed the home team to start.
The two teams then each looked for opportunities to attack, in a match that was shaping up to be very even. "Our team is playing against the champion of the 1st World Cup, after all, the same team that also defeated us during the football gold medal match of the Saint-Josalyn Summer Esferiad," noted Angela.
After nearly half of the first match without many goals, Giovannilandian striker Pietro Takeda finally opened the score on the 25th minute, aided by attacking midfielder Giustiniano Nottua-Glabrio and striker Klementina de Abreo-Florino. The Giovannilandian fans then cheered.
However, the advantage would not last long, as in the 32nd minute Camdyn Cartwrighte from Nieubasria would make the score even again, after the Giovannilandian goalkeeper Klaudio Spindola caught an initial attempt but could not stop a second try.
"It's the player that received the 1st World Cup's Golden Ball award after all," thought Matteo.
That was it for the first half, with no other noteworthy happenings. "How do you think the match will end, family?", asked Flavio.
"I think it could go into extra time, or maybe even penalty shootouts," wondered Angela. "But I hope we can win."
The second half saw Giovanniland switch center midfield Gabriella Orfeo with striker Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli, as the team hoped to increase its attacking style. However, none of the scoring attempts succeeded.
In fact, the opposite happened: in the 63rd minute Edric Graemes from Nieubasria scored, leaving the Giovannilandians with a losing score of 1-2.
The following half hour was tough for Giovannilandian fans, as several opportunities were created but none succeeded. Outside back Sergio Feragi Faustiano and captain Lorentio Santo-Ferrari even hit the goalpost, while Gustavo Zapata had two strikes blocked by the Basric goalkeeper.
The referee gave four minutes of stoppage time, during a nailbiting moment for the family and other Giovannilandians in the stadium. But finally, when hope seemed gone, striker Ottavio Laquo-Tertulli finally scored the equalizer goal that would bring the score into 2-2 and the game into extra time.
"I guess the change at half time did pay off," said Augusto. The family then watched the two halves of extra time as the ball flew across the field but did not enter any of the goals.
"Penalty shootout it is," noted Matteo. The two teams then chose their best players to take the five initial penalties for each team.
Some minutes later, four penalties had been taken for each team and all were successful. Teodoro Sonserina, Gabriella Orfeo, Pietro Takeda, and Klementina de Abreo-Florino all scored for Giovanniland; while Camdyn Cartwrighte, Huxley Townsende, Holden Sudworthe and Landan Aylmere did so for Nieubasria.
It was then the final two penalties of the initial round, if both teams succeeded then it would go into sudden death. Gustavo Zapata took the one for Giovanniland; it was a strike that hit the top right part of the net, with no chance for the Basric goalkeeper.
Then it was the Basric striker Edric Graemes' turn. Once it was seen that the strike hit the left goalpost and failed to enter, both the Giovannilandian team and fans cheered as a place during the gold medal match was guaranteed.
The Settimo-Nerani family was happy as well. "Yay, congrats Giovanniland!", said Flavio. "Do we know the team we'll face in the next match?"
"Looks like it is, hmm... Cambria," answered Matteo. "They had a convincing 2-0 win against Arifiyyah."
"Their goalkeeper is really one of the best, very few times I've seen a strike pass through him," noted Augusto.
"Indeed," said Angela. "In the previous Esferiad we came to the final but lost to Nieubasria, the same country we defeated now, so hopefully we can get the gold medal for football this time."
The family then left the Stadio Sferiko Rege Giovanni VI, soon driving back to the Deversorio Hortensia. Just like the previous day, a traditional Lavandulan dinner awaited them. Then it was sleep time, as the family planned to watch some of the events in the last day of the Esferiad, hopefully including the Closing Ceremony at Kharventhin.

Giovannilandian Esferiad Report - 13th Day
24 Gold - 19 Silver - 20 Bronze
Hello there! I am Karlo Nakamura-Edrense, the host of the Giovannilandian Esferiad Report. Yesterday was a wonderful day for our nation, as it beat the record of 7 medals set in the 4th and 11th days, and surpassed it for a total of 10! Just like Blue Bubble's performance in the 2nd day that also earned them 10 medals, that is the most medals a nation has gained in a single day. Three golds, four silvers and three bronzes were earned yesterday, and I'll of course talk about the events that made this possible and the other ones as well.
Starting with Kharventhin, two events with Giovannilandian participation happened there. One of them was Shortboard Surfing, featuring Giovannilandian athletes Yolanda Fagundi-Torio, Italo Helvio-Rossi, and Benditto Kervariani. All of them advanced to the quarterfinals, but then Italo was eliminated at that stage. Yolanda and Benditto then met at the semifinals, the former going to the gold medal game and the latter to the bronze medal one. Then, Benditto won against Xolani Kariuki from Blue Bubble and earned a bronze medal, while Yolanda lost to Phoebe Aishi-Smith from Santos-Dominius but nevertheless achieved a silver medal. The other event was Indoor Volleyball, in which we defeated our neighbors Blue Bubble at their own home three sets to one, and will now play against United Adaikes in the final.
In Quorivo, seven events happened. In the semifinals of Field Hockey and Football, both Giovannilandian teams met the respective Basric ones, and two very close matches with almost the same scores happened. Both of them saw each team score twice in normal time, then no changes at extra time, and then a penalty shootout happen to decide the winner. The Giovannilandian football team won the shootout 5-4, while the field hockey one also did win but with a score of 4-3. Funnily enough, both teams will now face Cambria in the fight for gold, and both Cambric teams had won against the Arifiyyah ones to arrive in the gold medal match. What a strange coincidence! Anyways, for the finals, we'll see if an Astorian revenge or a Giovannilandian triumph (or both!) happen—vote in our daily poll to let your opinion be known!  
Meanwhile, in the Rugby Sevens semifinals, Giovanniland sadly lost 12-24 to United Adaikes, but can still win a medal, as it will face Nieubasria in the bronze medal match. Moving on to individual events, Road Cycling Time Trial saw the participation of Umberto Hibernio, Priskilla Linare-Vitale, Manuella Violetone, and Tadeo Remo Bellieno. Giovanniland dominated the podium, with Tadeo, Priskilla and Umberto ranked 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respectively! As for the Track Cycling Individual Sprint, the athletes Alessandra Kanassiro, Vinikio Garrulo Silva, Kristiana Hermentidio, and Fernandino Quartiano participated. Alessandra and Fernandino failed to advance past the quarterfinals, finishing 7th and 8th, while Vinicius and Cristiane faced each other in the semifinals. Kristiana then went on to the final and earned a silver medal after losing to Seiya Nikolov from H&J, while Vinikio did not get any medal as he lost to Lucy Collins from Nieubasria.
Furthermore, two gymnastics events happened today besides the cycling ones. Gymnastics Vault and Individual All-Arounds both featured the athletes Lukiano Annabella-Tappone, Sollenne Sousa Kandido, Silvana Mantovani, Isayas Delliaro-Varrutio, and Romeo Saverri-Mattei. Romeo and Isayas performed very well in both, the former setting a new Vault record and of course winning gold, and the latter achieving bronze. The tables turned for the individual all-arounds, as Isayas came first due to excellent performances in Balance Beam and Rings, finishing with 48 points, whereas Romeo's great Vault performance and good scores in the other events gave him 42 points and a silver medal.
After our retrospective, we will talk about the events in the last matchday of the Esferiad. Yes, it's already coming to an end, but there are still many Giovannilandian athletes to watch in the last day! In Kharventhin, our delegation will be present at the Closing Ceremony, while the Indoor Volleyball team will participate in the finals. There are also the Kayak-1 200 m Sprint, Badminton Doubles, and Fencing Sabre events, but no athletes from our nation will be playing. Meanwhile, the events in Quorivo will be:
Track Cycling Team Sprint featuring the pairs of Fernandino Quartiano & Vinikio Garrulo Silva and Kristiana Hermentidio & Alessandra Kanassiro;
Gymnastics Team All-Arounds featuring Lukiano Annabella-Tappone, Sollenne Sousa Kandido, Silvana Mantovani, Isayas Delliaro-Varrutio, and Romeo Saverri-Mattei;
Finals of Field Hockey, Football, and Rugby Sevens (team events);
That is the schedule for the fourteenth and last day of Esferic events! You can watch them on the channels 201 to 210, and for members of our monthly subscription, and I also hope to see you tomorrow for another report.

The Bauhaus Novel - Conversation Street - Episode 12: Esferiad Burst!

Jeremy Clarkson: Hello everyone and welcome to a new episode of The Bauhaus Novel.
James May: Indeed, welcome to what we hope will be a return to normal episodes. Well, as normal as us three can be.
Richard Hammond: Yes we shall, however now it's time to realize that there is no tent of chat, on the field of debate, just outside of Conversation Street!

The jingle we all know and love plays. This time, Clarkson drops an anvil on May to no effect. We are receiving a sense of Deja Vu here.
Richard Hammond: How did that not phase him?
Jeremy Clarkson: I don't know. It's completely baffling.
James May: You know I'm not really sure how myself.
Jeremy Clarkson: Well let's not get bogged down in whether James is even human, let's address the elephant in the room.
James May: Good point! So, Hammond, what do you mean there's no tent?
Richard Hammond: The HNJEK are rather unhappy with us for constantly missing deadlines and so they've decided to lay a penalty on this show.
Jeremy Clarkson: What kind of penalty?
Richard Hammond: Did none of you notice that we are outside doing this?
James May: Cock. I wondered why that was the case.
Richard Hammond: So basically we've been evicted from our news offices.
Jeremy Clarkson: Well I think we all know, in the audience, who is to blame for our predicament.
[In no time at all, the audience via a tally chart on the only piece of technology left to the boys showed  that May was clearly the blamed.]
James May: Hang on a minute, why am I being blamed here?!
Jeremy Clarkson: Well, the athlete roster was 3 days late.
James May: You can't tell me that was the sole reason you have blamed me.
Jeremy Clarkson: To be honest we're only doing it because you're the slow one, so if we pin it on you, me & Hammond don't get any flack and the viewers at home would see common sense in the reason.
James May: I'm a scapegoat then.
Jeremy Clarkson: Exactly.

Wholesome, if slightly confusing, online picture that the S.O.D.O.F.F contained.
Richard Hammond: On the subject, what are we going to cover in today's episode?
Jeremy Clarkson: Erm, that's a good question.
James May: I'm not really sure. But I got these signs.
Richard Hammond: Yes, those will help us.
James May: We hold them up and whoever can fit three TV hosts into their car can take us straight to that afterparty that the rest of the HNJEK, all 150+ athletes, are joining.
Jeremy Clarkson: Yes, yes! I forgot about that.
Richard Hammond: Mecislavs & Clarkov will be there too, the Tsar told me via email.
Jeremy Clarkson: Why didn't Jammbonevych Furutani email us?
Richard Hammond: You realise that boy is probably the most naturally nervous & shy person at this Esferiad outright, I'm guessing.
Jeremy Clarkson: My bad for not noticing sooner. Also, he is rather cold to people.
Richard Hammond: He's cold to pretty much anyone due to reasons mentioned earlier, but as Adaikesian President Salazar showed when he brought the topic of autism acceptance to the table, it is not impossible to get Clarkov to open up although it is a difficult & slow process.
Jeremy Clarkson: One thing's for sure, that boy no matter how naturally shy or nervous he is has no shame at all.
Richard Hammond: His special occasions drawer that sits adjacent to his Javelin Throw gold & silver medals tells all. Fanart, actual pictures of athletes, fanfiction, AB/DL, Age Regression, Yaoi/B.L., Bondage, a model train, memes, ships (not the sailing kind), the list goes on.
Jeremy Clarkson: No no wait, Yaoi/B.L.?!
Richard Hammond: I thought that was rather odd considering that the Prime Minister is as asexual as he is autistic which is very much so.

More stuff found in the S.O.D.O.F.F., this time Jammbonevych Furutani personally allowed us to show these ones. Miracles, though we're not sure they're good ones. Also, what did Enrico ruin?!
James May: Oi! Get out here you idle sods!
Richard Hammond: Coming James!
Jeremy Clarkson: It looks like that's all we have time for. If this isn't the final episode for the current Esferiad the next one will be. Now before we go I'd like to announce that Jammbonevych Furutani has told us three privately that he is thinking of having Hertfordshire & Jammbo lodge a bid to host the third Esferiad. Let's make it happen people, get to convincing him to go through with it. Oh and convince the Verkhovna Anglia while you're at it. This would need to be voted through.
James May: CLAAAAARKSOOOOOOON!!!
Jeremy Clarkson: Oh sh-t! Alright, have a skit we put together. Until next time everyone, goodbye!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oo18OQPrOI
The little skit that the trio put together. Ambitious but successful, not a phrase you hear about these three often. Or ever.
 
Day 13 Event Schedule (Already Gone)
Events/Ívents Athletes/Àølīts Canoe-1 Slalom Yoshika Melngaile, Kanako Yanchuk Road Time Trial Cycling Lilith Myroshnychenko, Maxie Valchev, Diego Adamov Track Sprint Cycling Nahyuta Seržants, Seiya Nikolov, Chara Dreimanis Shortboard Surfing Markus Vasev, Masamune Karapetrov Gymnastics Vault Chris Ostapenko, Futo Matvijchuk, Klaus Cīrulis, Niko Balodis Gymnastics Individual All-Arounds Chris Ostapenko, Futo Matvijchuk, Klaus Cīrulis, Niko Balodis Badminton Doubles Stage 1 Pluto Ḣeidïz + Rago Nesterenko, Sig Chornyj + Leone Avramenko Individual Sabre Fencing Stage 1 Manfred van Kirilova, Enrico Priedītis Heavyweight Boxing Finals "Scatman" John Lapsiņš Rugby Sevens Semi-Finals Hertfordshire & Jammbo Rugby Union  
Day 14 Event Schedule (Final Day! Coming Up)
Events/Ívents Athletes/Àølīts Kayak-1 200m Slalom Mukuro Ishchuk, Sachiko Sheremet Track Team Sprint Cycling Mary Hadjieva + Galeem Gaismas, Julian Kynev + Shinmyoumaru Sotirova Gymnastics Team All-Arounds Hertfordshire & Jammbo Gymnastics Team Badminton Doubles Finals Pluto Ḣeidïz + Rago Nesterenko, Sig Chornyj + Leone Avramenko Rugby Sevens Finals Hertfordshire & Jammbo Rugby Union  
         
 

The Bauhaus Novel - Conversation Street - Episode 11: The Last Thing On My Phone

Tonight, Jeremy revels in Richard's failure,

Richard convinces Ongo to hoard the waffles,

and Clarkov shows us what he was wearing during Javelin.


The Conversation Street jingle plays for the first time in a while. Here we see a truly stunning scene in the natural environment of the HNJEK Karventhin offices. The Orangutano Clarksonius and the Hamsteridae Hammonder are witnessed attempting to murder each other with a machine gun & a pistol respectively. The Spanielis Mayli has a knife in his head, yet miraculously still lives. Also, hooray for recycling previous intros!
Continued from the previous episode.
 
Makoto Nankov: What is your most frequently used emoji?
Richard Hammond: I have never used an emoji ever.
Jeremy Clarkson: I don't use, ever, emojis.
Richard Hammond: Me neither, I never use them. It's just inappropriate! It just feels wrong to be using an emoji, I don't feel like I should. James, you have used emojis.
James May: I have. I've, er, only ever used the thumbs up one occasionally because you can do it in lots of different colours, it's very right on. So you can have it all the way from sort of pasty Northern Polaris to, you know, somebody from New Velka, you've got all shades of person.
Dio Burluka: What music are you listening to?
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: I've got the MBTI as Instrumental Music Collection by Natalya, er, some medieval music, two anime albums and... that's all off the same album, that's just my special occasions material.
Jeremy Clarkson: [confused and displeased grimace]
Richard Hammond: When did he get here?
James May: Not a clue, but his music taste is strange.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: I... thought I was alone. 
Richard Hammond: You can stay if you want, since you're here now.
James May: Fine by me.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: [soft smile]
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: What was the last note you wrote to yourself?
Richard Hammond: "Tamara Davies died. Off continent, look back & do all we can. Tamara Davies still died. We are what we are in a time we can conceive and measure." Utterly meaningless...!
Jeremy Clarkson: "The Stig's Doll Guldurian cousin, something to tell us?" "Yes diarrhoea, c) pick on people in bins." I suspect it was- there was a story that The Stig's Doll Guldurian cousin was joining the Esferiad. They got a photograph of maybe a sign-up document as the Postcard Online called it, they'll have gone 'something to tell us Doll Guldur Stig?' and it would hold up a sign saying 'Yeah, I've got diarrhoea. Just got a bit of a bloated engine, I'm going to have a big sh-t in a minute'. F-cking Postcard Online.
The Stig: ... .... ...... ...... .. ... ..... [Translation: How many unread emails do you have?]
James May: 111,672.
Richard Hammond: I've got just 2.
Jeremy Clarkson: Here's my inbox.
Richard Hammond: That's a lot of unread.
Jeremy Clarkson: All of them are unread. So if you're watching this Faust Ḩarełeudeiem, Karen Kovalenko, Suu Strashilova, Mizore Savenko, Enrico Priedītis, Armando Slobodyan, Chara Dreimanis whoever you are, Kou Kovalchuk, Embry Balkanska, Ongo Sidopliassova, Shirou Fomenko, Lemres Romanov, Sentinel Putniņš, Ryo D. Lait, Mečislavs Deben: unread!
[Clarkson & Hammond burst into laughter]
Richard Hammond: Yeah you should probably try a bit harder there.
Jeremy Clarkson: Oooh- that's a bit embarrassing. [still laughing during sentence]
 
Yeah, we didn't make an episode yesterday, again, but we do have a habit of this now. Perhaps we should try and make more time to do these. Besides, some say that 
Goodbye & Goodnight everyone!
 
Day 12 Event Schedule (Already Gone)
Events/Ívents Athletes/Àølīts Kayak-1 200m Sprint Roger Runcis, Bunta Furman Mountain Biking Cycling Mečislavs Deben, Jataro Koks Golf Dynamis Dudka, Emporio Aspers Gymnastics Rings Chris Ostapenko, Futo Matvijchuk, Klaus Cīrulis, Niko Balodis Heavyweight Boxing Stage 1 "Scatman" John Lapsiņš, Vector "Prime" Putniņš Kumite Karate Finals Cain Myroshnychenko, Erhard Mykhalchuk Lacrosse Finals Hertfordia Lacrosse Field Hockey Quarter-Finals Hertfordia-Jammbo Hockey Football Quarter-Finals Hertfordshire & Jammbo Football Federation Rugby Sevens Quarter-Finals Hertfordshire & Jammbo Rugby Union James May: Why are we showing events that have already happened without showing the upcoming events too?
Jeremy Clarkson: Because we'll get those upcoming events in the next episode or fall asleep trying.
 
         
 

HEADLINES–DAY THIRTEEN
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team loses to the United Adaikes. 
- All of Orandia's gymnasts pass the qualifying round for the vault event. Jules Beaufils suffers from a lopsided finish in the semifinal, earning him a meager 13.575 points.
- Lisa Zenik and Celeste Blanc finish tenth and eleventh, with respective scores of 14.825 and 14.775.
- Roméo Azaïs makes it to the finals, his flawless vault, scoring 16.325 points, earning him his (and Orandia's) second silver medal.
- Roméo places fifth in the all-around with 24 points. Lisa places seventh with 17, while Jules places 18th with 3. Celeste does not place.
 
COMMENTARY

"It's very easy for a good gymnast to walk away with multiple [medals]." –Lex Lascar, day nine coverage
 
LOOKING AHEAD–FINAL DAY
- The Orandian indoor volleyball team plays in the bronze-medal game against Blue Bubble. 
- Gymnastics team all-arounds take place.

SUMMER ESFERIAD DAY 10
 
Good day everyone! After a day without report,we brought to you a few exciting news today.
From the Badminton Arena,our two single badminton players,Chia Jun An and Afeeq Nasrullah, qualifies to the quarterfinal. Chia Jun An won all games today against Noa Tos from United Adaikes (21-16,19-21,21-10) and Viktor Axelrod from Larxia(21-19,21-13) same as Afeeq,win all games against their own teammates,Rezal Zambery(26-24,21-13) and Lani Univan from Blue Bubble (21-19,21-14). We would also like to congratulates Rezal Zambery,not his luck today after be in the same group as Afeeq Nasrullah. Afeeq and Jun An says they will do their best,and their target to meet each other in the final stage.


Afeeq Nasrullah after a game against Rezal Zambery.
 
We move to the next news,the Arifiyyah Field Hockey Team, continue their winning streak after won 2-0 against Cambria today. This is the big chance for them to be qualify to the quarterfinal. "We are very happy! Very worth it to purchase ticket and watch them play. This is our chance to prove that we have the best field hockey team in the West Pacific"said one of the fans after the match finished.

Arifiyyah now is in the top of Group A with 9 points
 
Also three points in football,the Orangutan Rangers is back in action and won 2-1 against Fujai! The winning goal from Habeb Alley helps the team to collect three points. "We practiced all day last night, and here are the results we got. I was satisfied with their performance. For tomorrow’s game against Tupmonia, they still haven’t grabbed a point, and I’m sure the boys will beat them. No Press for today,we gonna start training and win the next game",said Ong Kim Liau,the national head coach during the short interview. Arifiyyah now is in 3rd place in Group A,with 6 points.


Habeb and his teammates celebrated the winning
 
And here is the latest ranking of medals collected sort by most gold.

Giovanniland is on the top of the hill,with 16 gold,13 silver and 13 bronze. And Blue Bubble just pass the 2nd place baton to Nieubasria,they already collected 11 gold,12 silver and 7 bronze medal.
Arifiyyah still with no medals. However,we hope we'll get the first medal from badminton,atleast bronze. Goodluck to all Arifians athletes that will be play tomorrow. That's all the reports for today, see you next time!
Reported by: Ahmed Al-Babu

Fencing with Foils

 
This week will see the Esferiad Fencing competition with the foil. Earler, we discussed some of the important points about fencing in general. Let's go into the details of fencing with a foil.

What is a foil? Well in fencing, a foil is one of the three swords we use (see our previous article).
The foil itself has a rectangular shaped steel blade as opposed to the epee’s triangular silhouette. The blade, like all other blades in fencing, is extremely flexible in order to prevent harming your opponent, or the blade. 
The maximum length of the blade is 90cm. With the tip of the blade covered by an electric button, and a pommel at the bottom, the maximum blade for the entire sword in itself is 110cm.
Where the blade meets the handle there is a guard, meant to protect the hand from the opposing sword. The guard on the foil is a lot flatter than the epee, but still circular. It’s like a small dome surrounding the hand. 
The handle of the blade can be either a classic french grip or pistol grip. The french grip is a grip shaped like the grip on a hammer, but it’s not held like a hammer. This grip is more classical, however a lot of fencers prefer the pistol grip (named for its resemblance to a pistol).
On electric swords, the tip of the blade is covered by a button, connected through the blade and into a socket in the hand guard. This socket is connected to a wire that runs through the fencer’s clothing, and to a light or a buzzer, which is activated when the button is touched.
On non-electric swords, which are used for practice, there’s no electricity, or button. Just a plane rubber tip, covering the point of the blade.

With a high demand for accuracy and good form, foil fencing is about as classy as fencing could get. And with a need for good form, there also comes a need for knowledge of the rules. As complex as they may be.
In addition to the normal rules in fencing, foil has its own specifications to certain parts of the rule book.
The goal in any fencing match is to touch your sword to your opponent’s target area. In foil fencing, the goal is to thrust the tip of your sword directly onto your opponent’s target area, which includes the torso, back, abdomen and crotch.


To win, a player must get 15 points, or have the most points after 3 rounds. However, if the final bout ends in a tie, a priority minute is set.
The priority minute is a one minute bout, where one fencer is given “priority” by the judges. This “priority” determines which fencer wins the bout, if neither player scores a point within the minute.

In foil, as well as sabre fencing, there is a rule implemented called “right of way”, or “priority. A lot of people are confused by this rule, but it’s not as complex as most people make it out to be.
In order to understand this rule, we need to figure out what it’s for. The right of way was made to enforce aggressive fencing, with good form, from each fencer. 
During a fencing bout, the fencer who is playing more aggressively, or with better form, is given the right of way.
The player with the right of way, is given a point if both fencers make a touch simultaneously. Simple as that.
However, the right of way can be taken if the defensive fencer successfully parries an attack, But will be given back to the other fencer, if they don’t follow up with an attack. This is what makes the parry and riposte so important.
This rule does not exist in epee, because if each player touches at the same time, they both get a point.
Let's discuss one of the moves often utitilzed by Saint Mark fencing, and perfected by Prince Marcarius.
His Serene Highness' fléche has three steps to it. Firstly, he starts by pointing his blade up so that his opponent’s blade is also up (in case it isn’t already there). The point of doing this is to uncover his opponent’s bottom target. Secondly, he feints on the bottom target by moving his entire forearm downward (moving his entire forearm is critical because that’s what makes the feint visible to the opponent). In other words, making his move look very apparent is key because that’s what makes his opponent fall for his feint. Thirdly, he finishes on sixth (or up), which is the line he uncovered in the first two steps. When done right, these three steps can make his indirect flèche unstoppable.
 
Credit: adapted from https://fencingprodigy.com/what-is-a-foil/