Fujai

Address by the Minister of Defence for Sekiya at DSIG Convention:
"Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow defenders of peace,
It is an honour to stand before you today at this groundbreaking convention. As the Minister of Defence for Sekiya, I am proud to witness the unveiling of the latest advancements in military technology and the indomitable spirit of Sekiyan innovation exhibited by DSIG.
DSIG has been an important partner in our nation's defence for over seven decades. From its humble beginnings to becoming a pioneer in armoured vehicle manufacturing, DSIG's journey reflects the unwavering commitment to technological excellence and the safeguarding of our nation's security.
In the dynamic landscape of modern warfare, the challenges we face are ever evolving. Other nations grow more sophisticated, and the demands on our armed forces require us to stay at the forefront of innovation. DSIG, with its relentless pursuit of excellence, has been a vital collaborator in our mission to ensure the safety and sovereignty of Sekiya.
As we witness the unveiling of the Qilin Armoured Assault Vehicle it is a testament to DSIG's dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. These technological marvels showcase not only the might of our armed forces but also the ingenuity of our domestic defence industry.
In closing, let us celebrate the achievements unveiled at this convention. The collaboration between our forces and DSIG exemplifies the synergy required to secure our nation's future. Together, we stand ready to face the challenges of tomorrow, armed with innovation, determination, and the steadfast commitment to the safety and prosperity of Sekiya.
Thank you and may our partnership with DSIG continue to flourish and safeguard the peace we hold dear."

Qilin Armoured Assault Vehicle
DSIG is proud to present its expansion into the AAV market! Let's have a look at the Qilin AAV and its capabilities!

Versatile Armament Suite
The Qilin is able to be mounted with a whole range of armaments, from Anti-Air missiles, Anti-Tank Missiles, a stabilized autocannon or a dual coaxial machinegun. The gun can also be fitted with a satellite dish, allowing the Qilin to act as a mobile radio centre.
Amphibious Capability
Depending on its armament, the Qilin can easily traverse rivers and operate with limited function underwater for brief periods of time.
Composite Armour and Active Protection
The Qilin has a similar armour composition to the Damao Main Battle Tank and incorporates similar AP systems to protect against incoming projectiles.
C4ISR Integration
At the core of the Qilin's capabilities is its integration into Sekiya's C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Recconaissance) network. This allows the Qilin to exchange data in real time with Sekiya's defence network.
Built-in Drone Capability
Perhaps one of the most revolutionary features of the Qilin is the incorporation of an optional UAV dock and interface. This allows the Qilin to expand its reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities into the sky.

What is DSIG?
Shortly after the Nuran war, veteran tank commander Wang Zhiming founded Damao South Industries Group (DSIG) in the 1340s in the state of Damao. Wang had experienced both the pros and cons of Sekiyan Armour, and had learnt firsthand where improvements could be made.
DSIG Originally started out making advanced optics for light armour, with a focus on improved gunner sights and periscopes. Following the success of this venture, DSIG turned to the research of compositions and began producing cast armour for the Yin Group.
As DSIG accumulated experience in the defence sector, the company began planning it's first armoured weapons system: the Damao Main Battle Tank. The tank took around a decade to design and would go on to win a government contract to make Sekiya's next generation of MBT. Following this, DSIG started to expand. First, it went north into the state of Saiqi, before expanding into Cuiyu and Heping. Following the development of the new Damao 3 MBT, another plant was opened in Daxing.
Current Locations:

Red: Damao State
DSIG continues to be the driving force in the development of tanks in Sekiya and has currently produced 3 generations of the Damao MBT.
Generations of the Damao MBT:
Damao 1A (1363) - The Damao 1A marked DSIG's entry into Sekiya's list of defence conglomerates. Replacing the dated 1342 Yin MT, the Damao 1A boasted enhanced firepower and advanced systems. Damao 1B (1367) - In the wake of better electronics, the Damao 1B had a better firing computer and stabiliser. Damao 1C (1373) - The Damao 1C introduced improved frontal armour and advanced communications systems. Damao 2A (1383) - The Damao 2A introduced a Hybrid Electric Drive system and a Composite Modular Armour, as well as an overall redesign to the hull and engine, keeping the same turret as the Damao 1C. Damao 2B (1392) - The Damao 2B introduced early Active Protection Systems, as well as a redesigned crew service, giving more space in the interior. Damao 3A (1414) - The Damao 3A introduced a radical overhaul of the tanks overall design. It features advancements in signature reduction and implements basic AI into the tank that assists with real-time threat analysis, predictive maintenance and decision support. Additionally, the Damao 3A marked the first upgrade in calibre, with a 120mm smoothbore cannon. What will be expected to be shown at the First DSIG Convention?
It is speculated that the convention will reveal the Damao 3B, the successor to the Damao 3A, however it is currently not yet known what changes this may bring. Additionally, leaks have speculated that Damao will be unveiling a new line of Infantry Fighting Vehicle. 
Damao has confirmed that it will be showcasing its state-of-the-art VR Training Simulations. These VR Zones will allow participants to sit in a replica of a Damao 3A, with the viewpoints replaced with the virtual scene. The Simulator is able to simulate shock, fire and over 20 different scenarios in different biomes.
A scaled down demo has currently been on the published on several VR consoles and the simulator is expected to exit testing in late 1424, where it will be used by the Sekiyan Army to train its tank crews.

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

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

Introduction

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

Closing the signups, I will post the IC thread shortly.
This thread will remain open for OOC matters related to the IC tournament.

Nation name: Fujai
Nation trigram: FJA
Players:
1. Ola Kvalheim
2. Agnethe Hjelm
3. Ajla Smith
4. Mathias Sandvik
5. Kjell Rånes
6. Khadija Ånestad
Should another nation only send a single player, the Fujansk team would be willing to form a joint doubles team.

Gotta say I'm surprised at the results here, I thought elf ears would be much more popular

Elf ears 10/10 gimme the pointy
edit: nothing against santa beard, but if i want that i can make my own or store bought is fine

Results of the Final Matches
Bronze Medal Match

Gold Medal Match

Congratulations to our Medalists!
Gold: Cambria
Silver: Nieubasria
Bronze: Dalimbar

Results of the Final Matches
Bronze Medal Match

Gold Medal Match

Congratulations to our Medalists!
Gold: Cambria
Silver: Nieubasria
Bronze: Dalimbar

Results of the Final Matches
Bronze Medal Match

Gold Medal Match

Congratulations to our Medalists!
Gold: Cambria
Silver: Nieubasria
Bronze: Dalimbar

Results of the Final Matches
Bronze Medal Match

Gold Medal Match

Congratulations to our Medalists!
Gold: Cambria
Silver: Nieubasria
Bronze: Dalimbar

Results of the Final Matches
Bronze Medal Match

Gold Medal Match

Congratulations to our Medalists!
Gold: Cambria
Silver: Nieubasria
Bronze: Dalimbar

Results of the Final Matches
Bronze Medal Match

Gold Medal Match

Congratulations to our Medalists!
Gold: Cambria
Silver: Nieubasria
Bronze: Dalimbar

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

Warning - body horror
 

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

In the heart of the frigid Masendav wilderness in northern Cambria, a harrowing clash unfolded as the 4th Infantry OTK faced a formidable foe from Dalimbar. The chilling conflict thrust the serene village of Torma Manor into the annals of history, underscoring the tensions of a world gripped by the Second Northern War.
Torma Manor, nestled amidst snow-covered peaks, became a grim theater of battle as the Dalimbari Army, seasoned in warfare, besieged the village. The 4th OTK, resilient and disciplined, confronted overwhelming odds against the backdrop of a winter landscape marked by treacherous terrain.
The unfolding drama played out against the stark canvas of evergreen trees cloaked in snow. A biting wind swept through the forest, setting the stage for a relentless struggle. Clad in olive drab uniforms, the men of the 4th OTK held steadfast in their defensive positions, braving the unrelenting assault.
Lieutenant Colonel Hunt, a weathered and stoic commander, surveyed the battlefield with a craggy countenance shaped by numerous campaigns. The faces of his men reflected a mix of determination and fatigue, testimony to the harsh realities of war etched in the lines of their snow-covered trenches.
The Dalimbari offensive persisted with artillery shells tearing through the tranquil forest, disrupting the once-peaceful enclave. The 4th OTK, outnumbered and outgunned, valiantly defended against the encroaching forces. Their resilience mirrored historical echoes, portraying the indomitable spirit of those who faced impossible odds.
Amidst the eerie calm of a momentary pause in the fighting, a distant hum heralded an impending threat. A collective gasp swept through the frozen air as a 205mm artillery shell, bearing the unmistakable Dalimbari markings, hurtled towards Torma Manor—an unprecedented weapon, rewriting the rules of warfare.
The ensuing detonation shattered the tranquility of the mountainous forest, unleashing a blinding wave of destruction. The shockwave swept through the landscape, felling trees and obliterating all in its path. The soldiers of the 4th OTK, once stalwart against insurmountable odds, succumbed to the merciless force of this unparalleled weapon.
Torma Manor, once a haven, now lay in ruins. The atomic inferno left nothing but devastation in its wake. Emerging from the remnants, survivors—friend and foe alike—bore witness to the horrors of war etched in their faces.
As the cold winds whispered through the scorched remnants of the Cambrian forest, the aftermath of the Battle of Torma Manor unfolded. Snowflakes gently settled on the ashes, carrying with them the weight of a narrative transcending borders and time. The tragic events that transpired became a somber chapter in the annals of history, a stark reminder of humanity's relentless march, even when armed with weapons capable of shattering the very fabric of existence. Within hours of the event, the world grappled with the sobering reality of an unprecedented conflict in the Masendav wilderness.
In the heart of Lahemaa National Park, where the Jaanus Vaino swamp forest sprawls its mossy arms and silence reigns like a forgotten king, lurks a creature born of shadows and ancient dread. The locals call it the Vanamees, the Old Man of Lahemaa. A bipedal hominid, it stands tall and broad-shouldered, its form obscured by a matted pelt of black and dark brown hair that bristles like a wild boar’s in the dim light filtering through the dense canopy.
Its eyes are the color of glacial ice, said to burn red as embers when the sun dips below the horizon. These eyes have witnessed the passing of millennia, seen civilizations rise and fall, and witnessed the birth and death of countless creatures. They hold a depth of wisdom and savagery that chills the blood of even the most seasoned hunter.
The Vanamees is a creature of immense strength. Tales whisper of uprooted trees and shattered boulders hurled with ease by its powerful arms. Its footprint is said to be the size of a dinner plate, a stark reminder of its presence in the whispering woods. Those who have encountered the Vanamees speak of a guttural roar that shakes the very earth, a sound that sends chills down the spine and leaves a lingering echo of fear in the heart.
But the Vanamees is not just a brute force. It is cunning and intelligent, a master of the hunt and the art of deception. The oldest stories speak of its ability to shapeshift, to mimic the voices of loved ones and lure unsuspecting prey into the depths of the forest. It is said that the Vanamees can become a shadow, melting into the darkness unseen, only to reappear when least expected, a terrifying specter born of the nightmares of men.
Over the past four decades, hundreds of sightings have been reported. Hikers have stumbled upon its massive footprints in the mud, hunters have seen glimpses of its hulking form through the trees, and campers have woken to the chilling sound of its guttural cry. Yet, despite these numerous encounters, little photographic evidence exists. The Vanamees seems to exist just beyond the grasp of reality, a phantom haunting the margins of our world.
Some say the Vanamees is a remnant of a long-forgotten age, a creature that predates humanity itself. Others believe it is a guardian of the forest, a protector of the ancient wilderness. Whatever the truth may be, one thing is certain: the Vanamees is a creature to be feared and respected. The whispers of its name in the wind carry warnings of danger and of the primal terror that lurks beneath the verdant canopy of Lahemaa.
So, if you find yourself wandering through the heart of the Jaanus Vaino swamp forest, tread carefully. Listen closely to the sounds of the woods, and be wary of the shadows that dance between the trees. For the Vanamees, the Old Man of Lahemaa, may be watching, waiting for the next unsuspecting soul to venture into his domain. And when it does, the forest will echo with the screams of the lost, another victim claimed by the legend of the Cambrian swamp.

Astounding Discovery Reveals the Shocking Truth Behind Everyday Objects!"
In a world where the extraordinary is often overshadowed by the mundane, prepare to be astonished as we unravel the secrets hidden in plain sight! Our investigative team has uncovered mind-blowing revelations about the everyday objects that surround us, and are ready to unleash a series of amazing exposes for our readers. Brace yourselves for taste of the a journey into the astonishing and bizarre world of the ordinary!
The Real Purpose of Shoelaces
You've been tying your shoes wrong all your life! Shockingly, shoelaces are not just for keeping your sneakers snug. Our investigation reveals the hidden ancient art of "Laceomancy." Believe it or not, the pattern of your shoelaces can predict your future!
The Unseen Magic of Staplers
Staplers: the unsung heroes of the office. But did you know they possess a mystical power? Our experts have unveiled the incredible truth—staplers are enchanted with the ability to dispel boredom. Just give it a little squeeze, and watch your workday woes disappear!
The Surprising Relationship Between Coffee Mugs and Creativity
Ever wondered why your favorite mug makes your coffee taste better? Our groundbreaking research shows that the choice of your coffee vessel directly influences your creative prowess. Get ready to revolutionize your morning routine!
Jaw-Dropping Secrets of the Office Plant
That innocent office fern is not as innocent as it seems. Our investigation exposes the covert role of office plants in corporate espionage. Stay tuned to learn how your leafy companion might be sharing your deepest secrets!
Spoon Bending 101: You Can Do It Too!
Move over, Juniper Witch of Dean! Our team discovered the untapped psychic potential of your ordinary kitchen spoon. Join us as we guide you through the mesmerizing journey of spoon bending, unlocking hidden powers you never knew you possessed!
Prepare to have your mind blown as we dive into the world of the ordinary, turning the mundane into the extraordinary. You won't believe your eyes when you learn the shocking truth behind these everyday objects! Click now to be amazed! 

Results of the Quarterfinals

[The “Special Report” animation gives way to BrownNewsTV’s small news desk. A solitary young man, wearing a tight suit with no tie and with a very short haircut, looking 15 at best, is anchoring. BNTV subscribers know this to be Dean Howell, one of the few faces of the media channel.]
Dean: Good evening, comrades. I’m Dean Howell. Thank you for joining us on BrownNewsTV.
Dean: The third Football World Cup is underway in Ryxtylopia, and for the second time, the Overthinkers National Team has qualified. Despite public pressure to boycott, due to civil rights concerns in Ryxtylopia, the team has chosen to participate.
Dean: How much the players stand to make from this event has not been disclosed, not to mention the millions in corporate sponsorships keeping the national team afloat. The sports team is a glorified billboard—a publicity stunt that makes its money from big business, not from any legitimate work.
Dean: The masses of Ryxtylopia are currently engaging in peaceful protest against the World Cup, and are being met with police brutality. The state of Ryxtylopia is keeping a very tight cap on media access and revealing the reality in which the majority of its people live. Mainstream media in Overthinkers itself has been reticent to address the civil rights abuses on which the apparent wealth of Ryxtylopia is secretly built. But what’s new?
Dean: Instead, it seems that the only “behind-the-scenes” story that any media outlet is covering concerns former player, Lucille Lyons. After the national team was confirmed to be World Cup-bound, Lyons suddenly resigned from the team. More than that, Lyons seemingly disappeared, going dark on all social media, and family refusing to reveal her whereabouts.
Dean: This apparent spectacle has served as a great distraction from the real issues surrounding the tournament, and the mainstream media is eating it up. “What is she hiding?” they want to know. And apparently harassing people and their families over personal choices is okay if you have a camera. But what’s new?
Dean: Well, some of those questions are about to be addressed, though they may not get the answers they’re looking for. Joining us virtually this evening, in her first appearance since the beginning of the World Cup—welcome Miss Lucille Lyons.
[The screen is split between the studio camera and Lucille’s video. Lucille gives a forced smile. She is clearly using a low-end webcam in a nondescript, poorly lit location.]
Dean: Thank you for agreeing to join us, Miss Lyons.
Lucille: Please, call me Lucille.
Dean: Fair enough. Now, for our viewers, let me make clear that per her request, we will not be revealing Lucille’s location at this time.
Lucille: Yes, I do not feel comfortable with that information getting out. But I needed to start setting the record straight on a few things.
[Lucille’s delivery is neutral, almost mechanical.]
Dean: Precisely. You are afraid of retaliation from the team, right?
Lucille: That, but even more so from “fans”. You’ve seen the social media posts. Like, apparently I’m a traitor to the country now or something. What kind of nationalist nonsense is that?
Dean: And the negative response to your resignation has only reinforced the reasons for it in the first place.
Lucille: Yes! The bastards have never actually cared. One minute you’re the hero, the next minute you’re the zero. I’d call it an absurd standard, if there were even a standard to begin with.
Dean: Did you get similar treatment from the actual team?
Lucille: Yes. I always felt like I was being treated as a second-class citizen among them.
Dean: Was it because you were a reserve?
Lucille: No, the other reserves didn’t seem to notice. That’s just it, there wasn’t an explanation! There was absolutely nothing in what I did, on or off the pitch, that deserved being slighted.
[Now that she’s gotten warmed up, Lucille now looks appropriately distraught, maybe even too appropriately. Dean, a veteran of numerous online flamewars, expertly continues to tee her up.]
Dean: You were also opposed to the selection of Ryxtylopia’s bid, correct?
Lucille: Of course! The living conditions there are just ghastly, and here they are trying to put on a show and pretend they’re somebody. That they deserve the attention.
Dean: Just not the kind of attention that you and I know they should be getting.
Lucille: Yeah, that.
[For the first time, Lucille looks like she was thrown a curveball, even by such a seemingly innocuous statement.]
Lucille: But yeah, when it was confirmed we were going to Ryxtylopia, that was the last straw for me.
Dean: Understandable. Let’s shift gears back to your personal life. Tell us about some of the backlash you’ve received since your resignation.
Lucille: Awful. I knew it was going to be bad, so I have been avoiding social media, but my family has shown me some of the posts. Someone was burning posters and magazines with me on the cover! And another person was caught spying on my house in Bellman!
Lucille: And when they couldn’t find me, they hunted down my family. Like I was a criminal! My mother is a respectable woman; she served on the Brunnes Administrative Board for many years. And my sister has had to shut herself up inside her house because of the press.
Dean: Truly terrible.
[Before Dean can proceed, a distant chime is heard through Lucille’s feed. A high-pitched, tinny melody. She scrambles to hit her mute, but unmutes a moment later as the sound fades.]
Dean: Lucille, before we let you go, what can our viewers do to support you in this trying time?
Lucille: Just keep spreading the truth. The national football team is a toxic organization, and the world federation are greedy bastards who will sell out to the highest bidder. And the people who dare to question it get treated like this.
Dean: Heard and understood, Lucille. I won’t keep you any longer.
Lucille: Goodbye.
Dean: There you have it, comrades. The truth about the Overthinkers National Football Team and how it treats its...lesser celebrities. Tune in on Sunday for our regular weekly broadcast, where we unpack the impact of Dalimbari aggression in Polaris.
Dean: From all of us at BrownNewsTV, I’m Dean Howell. Good night.

Courtship of the Kings
Seven winters passed since the vanquishing of the Berganisk tribes, and Queen Tamar, her name echoing through the winds like a distant thunderstorm, ruled with sagacity and might.
In those days of yore, three royal suitors sought the hand of Queen Tamar, drawn by the luster of her realm. The first, Tonn, bore a regal countenance, yet his gaze was veiled by vanity and nearsightedness. The second, Olev, was piously devoted, but his reverence for the divine eclipsed the needs of his folk. The third, Jumal, harbored ambitions as fierce as the northern winds, heedless of the welfare of his subjects.
With grandiosity befitting their stations, the three kings approached Queen Tamar, each seeking favor. Yet, the queen, with discerning eyes akin to the falcon's gaze, perceived the flaws that tainted the brilliance of each.
To Tonn, the vain, she spoke words as sharp as the blade at her side. "A king's sight must not be clouded by his own reflection. Beauty is fleeting, but the legacy of a benevolent ruler endures like the northern lights."
Olev, the pious, found himself admonished by Tamar's unwavering gaze. "A king's devotion must extend to the realm he governs, not confined to the heavens alone. Your people crave sustenance and justice, not just the solace of prayers."
Jumal, the ambitious, faced Tamar's unyielding stare. "Power, if grasped without wisdom and compassion, is but a weapon of tyrants. A king should be a shepherd, not a wolf amidst his flock."
Enraged by these lessons in humility, service to the folk, and equality, each king, in the manner of the berserkers of old, drew his weapon. Tonn unsheathed his sword, Olev gripped a mace, and Jumal brandished a spear. They struck at Tamar, blinded by wounded pride and unbridled ambition.
Yet, Tamar, like a Valkyrie in the dance of battle, moved with the grace of the northern winds, deflecting their blows with a skill forged in the crucible of conflict. She spared their lives but claimed their crowns, a symbol of the humility and service they failed to grasp.
The tale of the thwarted courtship and the dethroned kings spread like the whispering breeze through the ancient fjords. The subjects of each realm began to see Tamar not as a conqueror but as a liberator and rightful queen. The realm expanded, and peace descended like the gentle caress of snow upon an ever-expanding dominion.
Thus, the Courtship of the Kings became a chapter in the saga of Tamar, the queen whose wisdom, humility, and martial prowess united realms and brought prosperity to the lands beneath her just and compassionate rule. The people hailed her not merely as a warrior queen but as a sovereign whose heart beat in harmony with the well-being of her folk.

FSTV 2 - Military Morning

Cpt. Natali Alexandrov, Host: Welcome back to Military Morning, here on FSTV 2. As announced yesterday afternoon by Stavka through Ukaz 231125-01, the Field Commander of the Far-Eastern Control Zone, General Iosip Frank, has been named as Vice Chairman of Stavka. He is to hold both roles as Vice Chair and Field Commander, the latter role he attained back in the springtime during the Rugby World Cup here in Dalimbar. We would like to welcome General Frank to the show to get his take on his new position and the overall situation.
Gen. Iosip Frank: It is a pleasure to be here. May the Path and our ancestors bless our frontline troops.
Cpt. Alexandrov: Indeed, sir. First off, on behalf of all of us Dalimbari, especially active-duty, a heartfelt congratulations on your new role. This has been a busy year for you, right?
Gen. Frank: Thank you, Captain. I would like to thank the Marshal and all my colleagues in Stavka for the confidence that they have seen in me to permit me to serve in both Vice Chair and Field Command roles. It is an honour to serve our Free State in both functions. I would also like to take this time to thank my good friend Admiral Kresco for his services as Vice Chair these past several years, he was a strong force within Stavka and I hope that he enjoys the gosdacha in 8. Along with the Marshal, Mihovil was a mentor to me and he will be missed in command.
Cpt. Alexandrov: I'm sure many active-duty Dalimbari have heard your story now, but would you mind telling us a bit about your younger years?
Gen. Frank: Oh absolutely! As I'm sure many of the lads know, I'm not a Starija-born lad, my family was based in Selia when I was born. Dad was a Colonel in the army but often served frontline in the Far-East and Yugodalia. As with many Dalimbari, we kids followed the paths of our forefathers, playing rugby in school and academy, going through training, and starting to make our way through service. For me, while Saint Andreisburg is our founding place and capital, Selia is... home. Even if I don't get to see it often, as I have been fortunate to tour around our great and splendid country throughout my career.
Cpt. Alexandrov: The 16th Tank Division in particular must be proud of your accomplishments. 
Gen. Frank: I have fond memories of my time with the 16th Tank. Our work in the Far-East was and continues to be essential to ensure the survival of the Free State and to consolidate and integrate the Far-East onto the Path. I'm always happy to start blasting at barbaric terrorists and their ilk if they dare threaten our Free State. We show no mercy.
Our glorious Marshal Briand and the rest of my colleagues on Stavka want to ensure that the Far-East is a peaceful as the Starija, and as Vice Chair and Field Commander, that is my mission. 
Cpt. Alexandrov: And we thank you for your service, sir. We're going to take a quick commercial break, and after we'll continue to talk to Gen. Frank. Stay tuned!