Local News Topic

Election 2022 - Will Republic threaten the Government's majority?
A growing republican sentiment, in spite of support for the King himself, and a new front on Osborne's left endanger his ability to meaningfully govern - can Osborne fend off a new left, or does he face another 2014?

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King Arthur can remember the 1980s vividly. His outlook on social welfare, while staying entirely detached from the "game of politics" as he would call it, seemed to manoeuvre him around a resurgence of anti-establishment rhetoric aimed at the Greenwood-era political parties. With Martha Grantham elected on an anti-Greenwood ticket, and with a King whose slight hints suggesting sympathy with the people - once urging Prime Minister Greenwood "not to judge those striking before first living on their wages" - republicanism firmly remained outside of the agenda, by a left-leaning but fairly mainstream generation of youth in an era which was anything but.

And yet, in 2022; when the state of working rights is widely viewed as "stable", the government's record relatively uncontroversial among young people and the prospect of a prolonged strike remote; a resolve of demands for more "open democratic" reforms has appeared among the youth electorate. It seems like if you give people a taste of functional democracy, their standards for it will rise - a quote by 27-year-old leader of Republic, the former public pressure group and now political party, Hannah Banbury, addresses this:

Above: EsthurElects polling, question: "Would you support the abolition of the monarchy?" - with the context of "following the present King Arthur's death". Polling is about one-third of Yes votes (~10-15%) lower for abolishing it while King Arthur is in the position.

In the 2022 general election, Republic will be the only party going in with an explicitly republican stance - with even the Progressive Group, whose leadership and policy programme is seen by many as anti-establishment leftism, maintaining a fairly neutral stance - and with tentative support from a significant portion of the general public, Republic will be seeking this election to cement itself as a major player for democratic change. As well as abolishing the monarchy, Republic's policy programme has slowly grown, with its membership directly "electing the manifesto policies" - with a Referenda Act, abolition of the monarchy, and reformation of the parliamentary system as well as mostly left-leaning socioeconomic policies.

In particular, the Prime Minister's government coalition's public antipathy towards Republic is not replicated in private, with polling for House of Barons control suggesting that the government may even lose its majority. A repeat of the 2014 general election - where a resurgence of traditionalist socialism amongst 2011 Social Democrat voters forced the Social Democrats out of even a Ministry majority - is a prospect that Osborne will not wanting to be repeat; and now even his coalition's security in the Barons is in question. No longer does Osborne merely have to win the front to his right - but now he has one to his left too. The Progressive Group, who rivalled the Conservatives for second place in 2019, are now struggling to secure a third place. Harold Osborne's coalition are facing a war on two fronts - and their survival is in the balance, and merely forming the next government coalition without majority support may even cement Republic's message that governance is not accountable to the public.

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Manger Wheat Weevil Threatens Crop Yields​

Anne LaCroix
March 11th, 2022

In a press release today, the Ministry of Agriculture confirmed the rumored reports over last week of the invasive Manger Wheat Weevil being discovered on a farm in the plains of Soult. The species, more aggressive in its breeding, eating, and destructive capacity than other weevil species, represents a significant threat to wheat crops on Lanceria.

The press release featured expert advice from leading Lancerian entomologist Prof. Marcel Cannoix of L'Universite De Saint-Cyr. "The Manger Wheat Weevil will spread and breed in fields of common cereal grains such as wheat, oats, rye, barley, rice, and corn." said Prof. Cannoix, "while that represents a threat to individual grains in its own right, the crop becomes especially vulnerable once harvested and stored in silos with the Weevil already present in the grains. The Weevil can then spread, breed, consume, and destroy the majority of that stored crop."

The release went on to discuss a number of directives the Ministry of Agriculture was issuing including mandatory reporting, restrictions on certain crop movements, and storage recommendations. The Ministry also noted it would be raising the issue with META to recommend comprehensive strategies to prevent the spread of the Weevil from Lanceria or the continents in the East, which is the suspected origin of the Weevil at this time.

Agriculture Ministry begins sweeping "internal and external inspections"
The threat of the Manger Wheat Weevil to both imports and domestic grain production is "serious and immediate", says Secretary for Agriculture

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The Lancerian announcement on the topic of the Weevil has sent shockwaves through markets and the Government alike - with the Agriculture Secretary setting out a roadmap for the "prevention of Weevil interference with food supplies and security".

"The threat posed by this pest cannot be exaggerated. As an Eastern nation ourselves, the possibility of there being the presence of this pest within our own borders and in our own supply is definitely of concern. We have commenced co-operation with farms across the nation to conduct systematic inspections of grain supplies across the nation, as well as the implementation of preparations to restrict crop movement from areas reporting cases of this Weevil in that eventuality. As well as this, this Government deems it necessary that we now begin systematic inspections of grain from all other nations, as well as complete inspections from all fellow Aurorian nations based on reports from Lanceria. Esthursia reserves the ability to suspend grain deliveries forthwith from nations reporting the presence of this pest and will do so if deemed necessary. Grain imports from Lanceria shall be suspended until 1 July, with a review on the second week of June over the possibility of extending this further if necessary, as well as regular reviews of the situation in other nations."

The Secretary for Agriculture has "absolutely not" ruled out the possibility of the Weevil being on Esthursian farms at this moment, however that the current risk is assessed as "low to medium on the information we currently have access to". The Conservatives have also supported the move, with Manning stating that "caution must be raised against this potential threat", and a cross-party statement between all major political parties has supported the overall maintenance of this new policy against this pest should a change in government take place, with the election now three weeks away.

Ever since Hadenburg and the rest of the Union started military operations in Stakhr, several terror attacks and incidents occurred both within Illderia and her allies. To combat the growing threat faced by Kian, His Majesty's Government revised several plans to maintain regional security. With developments in Enneheim, military and civilian officials are looking to up Illderian presence in the involved areas, mostly near the border regions.

The initiative dubbed Festung-West by the Illderian security forces is a large scale border control and peacekeeping operation on the border with and in Stakhr. With this program in place, the Royal Army's Operation Surikate will be closed down and all adjacent units shall operate under the Festung-West umbrella. Besides the Krijgsmacht's participation in the initiative, Homeland Security Minister Karl Nadelmann announced that with the cooperation of the Justice Ministry and the armed forces, all interior services will take part in the protection of Illderia's territorial sovereignty. According to Minister Nadelmann's statements, the National Police Corps, the Border Force, alongside Provincial Militia forces will be enforcing stricter security measures near the border areas, towns, and cities.

So far the government's efforts to protect the Illderian border has mostly been successful. Several border officials stated that security forces arrested multiple illegal border crosses involved with weapons trade. Border Force units also caught several participators on a planned terror plot on the Rothienfeld Provincial Congress.

With tighter border and customs controls and increased military presence in the area many experts speculate how long the conflict with the radical "Ten Rings" will last.

RAP News

Remarks of his Serenity, the Grand Doge on the New Alemaner Invasion
01.01.2021

"Ladies and Gentlemen, my fellow Prediceans. I regret to inform you all, that at Midnight tonight, New Alemaner forces crossed the borders of Predice. A number of cities were bombed. Our brave Army is putting up stiff resistance everywhere.
So War! As of 5:40AM today, Predice is at war with New Aleman. As of today, all matters and issues go to the background. We must put all of our public and private affairs on special tracks. We have entered a period of war. All efforts of the nation must go in one direction. We are all soldiers! We must only have one thing in mind: fight until victory!
The fate of Predice depends only on Prediceans. Nobody but ourselves will control our destiny. We are on our own land. The great truth is on our side.
Today we defend our country alone. Our allies watch from afar, helpless to aid us. No matter. We shall fight the New Alemaners, alone if necessary, and we shall drive them from our country.
Rest assured, that we, the heroic and invincible Predicean people, shall persevere and carry this war to its conclusion in ultimate victory. It may take years, but Predice will win, and freedom and democracy will not disappear from our country.
If the Communists want to take away what our nation bled for, nearly two decades ago, then let us welcome them to hell.

May God bless you all, and may God defend Predice.

Glory to Predice! Glory to the Heroes!"


Remarks of his Serenity, the Grand Doge on the first anniversary of the New Alemaner Invasion
01.01.2022

"One year. For one bloody and brutal year, our nation has withstood the onslaught of the communist armies of oppression from New Aleman. During this year, our nation has had to face unspeakable horrors, terrible brutality, and hard fighting. But, as one people, united in one common goal, we have persevered.
During this year, the two once great cities of Bellaterra and Vittoria were almost completely destroyed in massive battles. The hero cities withstood everything the New Alemaners could throw at them, until our own armies struck back.
As of today, January 1st, the communist enemy has been repelled from Predice. This is thanks to the sacrifices each and every Predicean has made. Whether you donated your wedding ring, toiled away in the factories, served in the Vigili del Fuoco, or served on the front, your contribution has been invaluable. Today, we stand on the precipice of victory. Exactly a year ago, we were staring defeat in the face. All of this is thanks to you, the Predicean people, and God's grace in granting us victory.
Our nation has never been more united in its work towards one goal. This goal being final victory. Each and every one of you, dear Prediceans, has toiled towards this objective in one way or another. I thank each and every one of you, for your undying loyalty to your nation, and unending will to see it as free, happy, and prosperous. The future ahead is bright, and we will rebuild everything the communists destroyed to be even grander. We will rebuild this country, as we've had to so many times before, but let it be the last time we have to rebuild it.
Today, our allies stand beside us. The heroic Dhahari, and fearless Essalaneans are here, but there are also volunteers from across Eras, who are here to defend freedom. Many nations support us in other ways, sending supplies. We are grateful to each and every one of you. We are no longer alone, as we were a year ago. The communists, on the contrary have never been more alone, although some countries, despite our protests continue to fuel this murderous regime with money and food. Choosing to meekly condemn their actions, while keeping them fed and armed. Had those trickles of money, food and indeed fuel been cut off, then this war would have been over long ago. Each day you continue to support this murderous regime means more Predicean blood spilt. How many more will we have to bury, before you take action, and stop supporting this criminal and murderous regime? Will it be ten thousand, a hundred thousand, a million? Or will it be now, that you step to the right side of history, and join us in sending this regime to hell? If your wish is to keep supporting this regime to the end, then the history books shall judge it. Our children will look up to us as heroes, while yours will look up to you as enabling murderers. If that is what you truly want, then so be it.
The free peoples of the world are with us. Let's win together!

Glory to Predice! Glory to the Heroes!"

Guten abend, dear viewers. I am Von Der Zeit’s host Ulrich Schrempf. We interrupt your evening broadcast with the most shameful breaking news. As you may or may not be aware recently Mr. Kory Ubterson, a CEFA official, has been caught up in a scandal revealing criminal activities of the National Football team coach and a handful of management. We have just learned not moments ago, Mr. Ubterson has been found and is currently in a standoff with local police authorities and the AVK*. Shots have been fired. Mr. Ubterson has been urged repeatedly to surrender peacefully. We go to our woman on the scene, Karin Buckler. What do you have for us Karin?

The feed switched to a woman standing behind some police SUVs, a barn highlighted with flood lights can be seen in the distance.

“I am standing here just outside of the small town of Gristede. Currently Mr. Ubterson has barricaded himself in a local man’s barn. He is refusing to come out and is threatening to shoot the farmer’s cows. There was a short gunfight earlier but things have settled down for now. The AVK have brought in a negotiator to hopefully defuse the situation.”

The cameraman pans to a man holding a megaphone standing just ahead of the floodlights. He is seen arguing with one of the police sergeants before turning on the device.

“Mr Kory Ubterson! I am Udo Stein. I work as an agent for the AVK. We have the entire building surrounded. There’s no where to go. That said let us not rush ourselves. Let’s talk a bit. Are you okay with talking?”

A barn shutter creeks open a bit. From within comes an exasperated voice, “Stay back! All of you! I...It was for the kids! I did it all for them!”

“Very admirable Mr. Ubterson. The children appreciate your contributions to our nation’s excellence in the game. But I want to talk about right now Mr. Ubterson.”

“There’s nothing to talk about! I said get back! Think of the farmer! Where will he be without his cattle! He’ll starve! Starve, I tell you! Don’t kill a man for trying! Where’s my bus!”

Udo is once again seen arguing with the police sergeant before resuming. “Uh…Ja it is on its way. Don’t hurt the cows. They don’t deserve to die for you did… Kory, why not put down the gun. You won’t need it for much longer.”

“Why…Why would I put it down? Then you wont send the bus! You’re not making sense!”

“Kory listen to me. It’s okay to be embarrassed. But listen clearly now. You won’t have a chance to be embarrassed unless you put down the gun. Just put it down and walk out slowly. We want this to be-”

A loud shot rings out across the farm echoing loudly. Udo deflates and lets his arms and megaphone drop to his side. A policeman quickly stands in front of the camera’s view putting his hand up.

Mein Gott. I am not completely sure what has happened there dear viewers, but I don’t think any good came out of it for Mr. Ubterson. Nonetheless we will be reporting when more official statements are made.

*AVK = Amt für Verfassungsschutz der Krone/Crown's Office for the Protection of the Constitution

Newly united Social Democrats announce new "aspirational socialist" working rights plan

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The Social Democrats' proposal for a "wealth cap", above which one must begin appropriating a certain portion of one's assets to workers or the state; overtime laws and a four-day week, has proven controversial and far more radical than expected.

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The Prime Minister has today, following the union of the Social Democratic coalition into the party two weeks ago, announced a tax plan supported by all former parties' main leaders, as part of his manifesto release.

In the announcement, PM Osborne stated:
The Royal Bank of Esthursia has "urged caution", with the WSE closing 0.7% below its starting mark, however the Chancellor has stated that "it remains in the economic interest that billions and billions are no longer hoarded without public participation in the income they contributed to creating".

The Prime Minister himself has also commented that "we are not taking wealth from those who have earnt it, for the notion that the people who produced the income and who provided the labour for the income should not receive a significant amount of the proceeds is ridiculous; the working people will finally be paid a working income, not a dictated fixed salary." With economists divided over the benefits, some fear that the move could precipitate an "exodus of a class of entrepreneurs", with one University of Brantley economist John Cherry stating "seizing assets from these people will inevitably cause them to flock and flee in droves"; whereas others have stated that the results of both granting workers greater proceeds for harder work and granting working people a portion of company profits in the event of a successful working year "will cause a flourishing of working productivity across the board, in all industries, in all regions".

The Conservatives have commented that the plans "strike a chord with syndicalism globally", and that "this outgoing Government has a distinct lack of direction - either they know they're going towards stagflation or they're about to find out." Conservatives have rarely attempted to focus in depth on the issue of working rights for various reasons, the main one being the General Strike of 2010-11 which crippled the economy following Einarsson's attempts to dissolve the trade union committee forcibly.

This marks a watershed moment for a Prime Minister who has been left mostly negotiating with the moderates in his party - with the rise of Republic and the increasing strength of Osborne as a party leader, Osborne will be looking left before he looks right this time round.

Sharpen your knives and polish your forks new and veteran chefs alike! It's April 4th in Regunalia, and that means the application period for The King's List 2022 opens in 6 days. If you want the King himself to show Regunalia why you and your team are one of the best in your category, now is the time to prove it!

First confrontation between the Emperor and the new General Governor
Mrs. Giraud challenges the Emperor to reform political system or to face a new electoral cycle

Napiosza, April 10

(Agencies) The recently appointed General Governor, Mrs. Alba Giraud, has decided not to wait to implement the vast reform program she announced before the Assembly before the vote decided the dismissal of Julian Ebner and her appointment. Even being the first woman in charge has not stopped her from giving the Empire a more smooth transition to the brave, hard-style ruling of Mr. Ebner to the softer manners that are expected of a woman.

The very first decision Mrs. Giraud has taken is asking the Emperor not to veto her proposal of an amendment on the electoral system, to repeal the ancient for-life appointments method to a more modern four or six years term model. The proposal, which has the support of her party, the Progress Party, but also from Workers Alliance or the Radical Federal Party, has to overthrow the institutional conservatism of the Imperial Party, which has appointed all the Emperors and General Governors for more than a century until last Friday.

But Giraud's proposal is not a show for the gallery. She has repeated several times that all the Representatives from the Imperial Party may be dismissed through popular revoking elections if the electoral system is not reformed in the current year. Precisely, the proposed reform would remove the for-life appointments and the revoking elections, providing in exchange fixed-term votings.

The Emperor's opinion is unknown. Some experts think Mr. Michael Binder would accept the offer only to stop the more and more collapse of the Imperial Party, which has lost 50 percent of seats in a year --at the moment it has 142 seats when its average was more than 300 in the last 30 years. But other experts agree Giraud's proposal would mean the end of Mr. Binder as Emperor and, maybe, the end of the Imperial Party as a hegemonic party.

Nevertheless, even if Mr. Binder ignores Mrs. Giraud and she activates the 'revoking war', as an Emperor's collaborator called it, any reform of the institutional architecture must gain the confidence of both the Assembly and the Senate. As Giraud can only force the renovation of seats at the Assembly, the Senate, which is elected by municipalities and provinces, will still host a huge majority of the Imperial Party, which stops any attempt of modifying the status of the Emperor or the Imperial Council unilaterally by the Assembly. Unless Giraud's plans include any action out of the Law, which is absolutely a mystery due to her reluctance to absolutely deny any possibility in this way.

CORRUPT EX-POLITICIAN BRUTALLY MURDERED, THE SILVER ARMS HAD RETURNED?​

Comment Section:

Emvic rejects the Gold Pin for his musical career
"The Emperor was the Minister of Defense who tried to bring me before a martial court in 1967", he argued to refuse the award.

Sturiens, April 16

(A. Quintana) The singer and composer Emvic has rejected the decoration that the Emperor, Mr. Binder, had proposed to him for his long and prolific artistic career. The Gold Pin, the highest decoration for a civil, social or cultural contribution, carries no prize money and can only be awarded to 15 different people each year. The Gold Pin is the highest of the non-monetized prizes the Emperor may award. Higher awards include a permanent allowance, but are reserved to harder merits, such as sacrifices in favor of disadvantaged or victims of a calamity.

Emvic announced his rejection in a twitch, explaining that "an official decoration is not going to make up for all the suffering that I and my musical generation suffer." Immediately, the Minister of Culture and Religion, Mr. Jones, regretted the rejection during a radio interview and wanted him to reconsider the idea as a sign of the political change that Zickfort is experiencing. Despite the sympathy that Emvic professes for the Progress Party, no one around him believes that these words will make him change his mind.


Emmanuel Victorian, artistically known as Emvic, was born 74 years ago in Meahra, a small mining town in the south of the country. After winning several radio contests, his songs "Black goodbye", about an accident in the mine, and "The killer", about a cowardly soldier, catapulted him to fame, but the military authorities ordered his imprisonment, accusing him of refusing to do military service, something he always denied.

However, when he was released from prison his fame had not diminished, which allowed him to sign his first record contract with a multinational, Collins Music. But his songs from that time were highly politicized and Collins denied him the agreed promotion, which resulted in successive commercial failures.


Emvic redirected his career by writing and starring in the musical "Ministry of Love", which spent five consecutive years at the box office and is still performed today. Later he returned to his musical career, which he has not abandoned, and which has left us such important songs as "Taken by the hand", about a mentally handicapped couple, "Lift your finger", against military service, or "The last dream", a song of protest against drugs. Although he is also known for his satirical songs, such as "I don't want to stand up today", about erectile dysfunction or "Falling down the stairs", about the end of a politician's career.

In case the Gold Pin is definitely rejected by Emvic, the Emperor must pick another of the candidates proposed by the Minister of Justice and Legislation or ask him to formulate another three candidates list before the year ends.

Applications have opened up for Talvezout's annual music contest, "La Festival des Kantigas". Submissions are welcomed from Talvezians living all over the island of Talvezout, alongside Talvezians living overseas.

Manger Wheat Weevil Spreads on Lanceria - Shipping Company Facing Steep Fines
Anne LaCroix
April 19th, 2022

The Manger Wheat Weevil enters the news again this week as word of new spread of the insect has been confirmed beyond the provincial borders of Soult in multiple storage silos in Lannes after discovery of a fouled crop by workers at mill in the centre of the province.

"I must express that I am very disappointed in the parties responsible for this spread. Over the previous weeks, we have isolated fewer & fewer incidents of the Manger Wheat Weevil and made significant progress in containing and ultimately stopping that spread." said Minster of Agriculture Jean Cartonne at a press conference this afternoon, "Now, we must destroy a significant amount of crops with which this regional operator interacted at some point. While this is a robust response, it still does not guarantee containment. With that in mind, it is essential that all other farms, processors, and transportation companies within Lanceria & especially those transporting goods off Lanceria abide by the rules we have in place now to mitigate any damage done. "

Transport Baranchette, a regional land-based shipping company operating in central Lanceria, has been assessed an as-of-yet undisclosed fine for their negligence. Sources say that the fine is likely in the 7 figures. The company was discovered failing to abide by regulations set out by the Ministry of Agriculture to sanitize trailers and extra inspections of loads being transported resulting in at least one contaminated load being transported into Lannes to the mill where it was originally discovered. The Ministry of Agriculture noted that it was still tracing each of the shipments that the company has interacted with over the course of the last month to ensure that all potentially affected loads or storage facilities are inspected. Minister Cartonne did confirm that there is likely to be some other spread from the originating location, a series of commercial farms in Soult which are now shut down and sanitized. Ministry efforts are now focused on the incident and ensuring that no fouled loads have left Lancerian shores.

ISLAND OF MARDOKASH SEIZED BY THE MILITARY JUNTA FORCES, ANOTHER LOSS FOR CENTRAL GOVERNMENT​

Comment Section:

Music News: Prog-Noise Up and Comers Brigada de Sorrol changes the game with Boigersville
By: Vanessa Quint
December 11, 2021

There's an old saying dating back to the days of the Worker's Republic that says "Nothing good ever comes from Sainte-Beaudoin." A rather conservative part of Callise, Sainte-Beaudoin, and Villende as a whole, are often seen as a vestige of the past clinging to nostalgic tradition. So when Brigada de Sorrol released their debut single, "Chachticat," it shocked critics and listeners alike. Oozing with a vast array of influences, from Progressive Rock to Jazz to Noise Rock, Brigada de Sorrol seeks to usher in a new era of Progressive Noise Rock animated by a lively and desperate sound that aims to get you off your seat and start dancing.

Founded in 2020 at the Sainte Belmonte Jazz Conservatory by students Agustí Sagra (guitarist and lead vocalist), Brandan Colomé (guitarist), Dany Bocuse (drums), Luc Dubois (bassist), and Miquel Ramís (saxophonist), the band started in a series of jam sessions which would later form the skeleton of Boigersville. The bandmates bonded over their mutual love of Callisean Prog Rock titans "Le Nou Cambiar" and the underground noise rock scene in Beaune, the latter of which was something of a taboo topic at the more conservative Sainte Belmonte Conservatory. They began playing music in the DIY Punk scene of Sainte-Beaudoin in 2020, originally composed solely of Sagra, Bocuse, and Dubois. They met Ramís and Colomé at one of these early shows, where the duo performed at avant prog-noise set that made heavy use of effects pedals for both the saxophone and guitar. They decided to jam together after the show, eventually choosing to join up in a single band.

Over the course of late 2020 to early 2021, they gained a reputation in underground music scenes across Callise for their carefully crafted and delightfully chaotic sound. They blew up on January 11, 2021, when they played as an opener for Le Nou Cambiar in Beaune. Their set was electric, with a performance of their lead single Chachticat was greeted with rancorous applause. Notably, during the song, Colomé threw his guitar off during the break down and proceeded to dance frenetically and do backflips before eventually picking up his guitar once more. As the music faded into a wall of noise, Colomé screamed into his pickups and manipulated the sound with his pedals. Videos of the performance went viral, both for the prolific musicianship and the energy of the band.

During 2021, they recorded and toured in promotion of their forthcoming album: Boigersville. It was ultimately released on December 1, 2021, to widespread critical acclaim. The album was noted for the two faces it showed in its musicianship. On the one hand, there was significant influence from the Progressive Rock stylings of Le Nou Cambiar. These efforts were spearheaded by Sagra, who idolized the bands of the first wave of Callisean Progressive Rock in the 1970s. Complimenting his unique vocals, these instrumentally complex tracks presented a beautiful and well polished portrait. On the other hand, the albums noise rock influences shone through. Colomé was responsible for this aspect of the sound, with his wide array of effects peddles, and unorthodox musicianship that emphasized the sensibilities of the DIY scene the band came up in. The result was an album which lived up to its name, which very loosely translates to "City of the Mad". The lyrics reflect this dual nature to the album as well, equal parts poetry and the ravings of a mad man, which painted an intricate picture of a dystopia dominated by tribalism, bigotry, and a rabid hatred of the Other. The album certainly reflected the political climate it was written in.

The album was met with widespread critical acclaim. SoundCraviter, a music site which rates albums from 1 to 100 based on critical consensus, gave it a 92 out of 100, making it one of the highest rated albums of the year. Despite their newfound success, Brigada de Sorrol has preferred to focus on their music. Sagra, who is almost always in character as a suave and aloof rock star, put it best: "We're just making the kind of music we want to listen to, darling. The fame is incidental."

WERDOI'S GOVERNMENT BOMBS MILITARY BASE NEAR MICCAN, NO SURVIVORS​

Comment Section:

KAMURAI SAKIRU WAKES UP FROM COMA, REVEALS SICKENING TRUTH​

Comment Section:

The Dawn of a new Eras?​

Tens of thousands of devoted onlookers filled the revolutionary square just outside of the newly renovated Palace of the People yesterday afternoon as a large military parade was held today in honor of the formation of the second Socialist Collective assembly. With representatives from all three member nations being in attendance. Including the newly socialist Xi'Hai, the People's Republic of Yamantau, and the People's Republic of Rayvostoka. During the parade, the current General Secretary of the Messianist Communist Party of Rayvostoka and President of the People's Republic Sasha Denvikov gave a rousing and telling speech to the crowd of nearly two hundred thousand. The speech which lasted about ten minutes extolled the virtues of Rayvostokan socialism, touting soon to be implemented reforms like the shutting down of labor camps operated by the previous General Secretary alongside promoting the unity and solidarity of socialist states like Xi'Hai and Yamantau. Which in her speech President Denvikov praised them for being models of the socialist system and wonderful examples of what overcoming imperialism and colonialism looks like, calling them inspirations for the modern state.

After her speech concluded, each member of the newly formed alliance gave a speech. Starting with the representative from Yamantau and ending with the representative from Xi'Hai. With all speeches concluded the parade began, and the gathered representatives began a troop review of the People's Republic's armed forces. Starting with the People's Army, they displayed the newest model of the NL-31 main battle tank. Alongside displaying a series of intercontinental ballistic missiles and their launchers. Following this display of strength, the Navy began its portion of the parade by displaying the marine forces of Rayvostoka but one particular highlight would be the display of the highly elite "Ocean Fighters" battalion of the People's Republican Naval forces. This is significant due to the sudden and recent growth of the Marine forces of Rayvostoka which according to experts, has been caused by the growing need to assist in the defense of more distant allies such as Xi'Hai and Yamantau. After the Naval portion, the parade then turned into an airshow with the People's Air Forces of Rayvostoka putting on a striking display, showing off their new and advanced fifth-generation Muski И-29 aircraft which is meant to overtake the current Muski И-27's primacy as of 2041 and last till 2069.


Troops marching in formation (Credit: Rayvostokan People's Army)

After the parade concluded, the three representatives traveled to the newly built plaza of Solidarity where the new Socialist Collective Assembly is being housed and together raised the three flags of their nations and lastly raised the flag of the Collective of the Plaza. Experts from the Ludwig Von Winter University of Koningberg (est.1799) have labeled this event as one of the most significant global events this decade with effects that will reverberate all around Eras with some saying it is cause for alarm. But despite the ominous nature of these claims others in the academic community believe that this new Collective will bring more good than harm, referencing their founding treaty which advocates for global cooperation and the demilitarization of Eras. But for the people at home, it is up to them to decide where they think this will all go and how they think these changes will ultimately affect their lives.

Written by: Minnie Kunkel 5/26/22

PARAMILITARY TROOPS TAKE OVER THE CITY OF SAN MARTIN, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT'S LOSES TREVISO DEO SUL​

What is your opinion, reader? Will the UAS give the aid needed? Do you think that The Silver Arms are back? What will be the outcome of this? Your opinion matter to us! Comment what are your thoughts below, or on Twitcher using our #tardineanniRoial.


Comment Section:

Deepening Crisis: Farmer-Labour Government in Turmoil as Economic Crisis Deepens
By: Phillipe Dupuy
June 2, 2022
2022 has been a hard year for Callise. While Callise managed to pull out of the New Years Crash and mini-recession which followed, underlying iniquities in Callise's economy have continued to fester. The fall in international trade running through Beaune and Fontaine caused by a combination of new militant contracts, the marginalization of Callise within the CEA after the tumultuous period of conflict between Liberals and Sovereigntists, and the evident presence of the falling rate of profit has destroyed boss and worker alike. The failure to reign in speculative investments has resulted in bank failure and conglomeration that somehow has not been able to pay back its creditors in full, forcing the government to foot the bill. And finally, a stratified land ownership system in rural Callise further exacerbated by falling crop prices and the most intense drought of the century has led to large agricultural corporations purchasing large tracts of land, and radicalizing an underclass of former farmhands. All of these issues, present going into the 2021 Special Election, have largely been left unaddressed and are causing serious rifts in the Farmer-Labour bloc.

Founded for the 2021 Election to unite the rural Social Credit Union and the urban Social Democratic Party in a program of pro-worker reforms and land redistribution, the newly elected coalition has failed to institute the reforms they campaigned on. The first item introduced on the legislative agenda, the Social Credit Act, has been stuck in committee purgatory. The reasons for this are varied, but the biggest cause seems to be the apparent contradictions inherent to the Farmer-Labour Bloc itself. While the left wing of the bloc has aggressively advocated for the seizure of financial institutions, the redistribution of land, and expanded social welfare, the more moderate factions of the bloc have been advocating for more reigned in, pro-market reforms that hold true to the historic program of the PSD and UCS since the fall of the Worker's Republic. These divisions have resulted in the bloc being unable to come to a conclusion on the issue. And the Social Credit Act is not the only proposal that has been left unaddressed. The "Vine and Fig Tree" Act (which addresses land reform), the Labor Entitlements Act, and the Social Service Reform Act have all been effectively killed on the floor.

This political split has rippled throughout the General Court. The more established factions of the PSD and the UCS have sided with the Left Republicans, whereas the Labor-Progressive faction of the PSD has linked arms with deputies of the Workers Party of Callise. Paul Levitch, historically between the two extremes of the party, has reportedly been deeply troubled by the issue. Sources close to the State Director report that he has neglected to put out a statement because he is unsure how to act. While sympathetic to the Left of the Farmer-Labour Bloc, he is unwilling to alienate the Right of the party for fear of destroying the alliance. Unconfirmed rumors suggest that he will call for an internal election of the UCS and will call for a special election to the General Court if he loses.

These political issues have also manifested in formal divisions. While Labor-Progressive has been an organized group within the PSD for a long time, the Social Credit Union has been without internal caucuses for a long time. This made it all the more surprising when, on May 1, 2022, an organized faction of deputies, party members, and organizers published "The People's Manifesto," a political document listing a series of grievances with the direction of the Social Credit Union and calling for sweeping land and banking reform. This faction, who have taken to calling themselves the People's Platform, or "Populists," have made moves to contest for leadership of the Social Credit Union. While all involved appear to be wary of splits, the Populists have made inroads with the PTC and the broader Callisean far-left.

The people of Callise have not been inert on this news either. The ATR and Migrant Farmworkers of Callise, the two largest agricultural unions in Callise, have staged a series of demonstrations to call for an end to land consolidation and the failure of the government to address income inequality in rural Callise. Likewise the Workers Party of Callise have organized demonstrations nationwide, calling for an end to the gridlock and the fulfillment of the electoral promises made by the Farmer-Labour Bloc. So far these protests have remained non-violent. We will update you on this story as it continues to unfold.

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"Hello, I am Gaius Antonius and this is SNN."

Gaius Antonius shuffled his papers and looked at the camera:

"Our top story tonight is the upcoming election, where we are starting to see several issues come to the forefront. The *Plebian Partium has promised to continue its over a century long goal of liberalization, with this elections stated goal of reducing mandatory conscription down to only one year as opposed to the two years that it is set presently. The leader of the Plebian party, and Senate minority speaker Gaius Lucius Brutus has promised that his party would also push for a reduce in military spending. His move to reduce the influence of the military is spurred by the last decades of rapid military buildup that the **Custodia Ferri has under taken. The current Consul of the majority finds this course of action: 'Criminally negligent.'"

The camera shifted over to the other anchor, Maria Epiphanum:

"Marescallus de Imperium, Nero Juili Octavian stated that 'The Plebian Party is showing its true colors, it is anti Imperium. If their mission to destroy the military industry that employs over a million citizens comes to fruition then we would see the utter collapse of the economy and our way of life. Time will tell what the nation has to say about these traitors.' Many people in government are calling the Marescallus' words an overstep of the militaries bounds, even attracting the disapproval of the Imperator himself. "

Gaius came back into screen and went on: "Now onto the newest stock data..."

Vampiric Terrorists Believed To Be Behind Attack On Church

BRAVONDKRAJ—Arrandi officials have blamed vampiric terrorist groups for an attack on a cathedral in the capital city’s south neighborhood that killed 40 people.

Sunday’s shooting at Kretzlusc Cathedral has stoked fears that vampiric organizations may be growing more active as the nation attempts to return to normalcy following nearly two decades of violence.

This is the fifth mass killing I’m the last two years believed to be linked to vampires. City and Principality officials have promised increased security throughout the city. Additional police and security forces have already been stationed throughout the Old City and around Sepulcher Hill, but many neighborhoods have been left with little police presence. Mayor Gniergoz has promised that this will no longer be the case and that all residents should feel safe in their city and be able to rely on the police.

When asked if he would reinstate curfews, like the ones seen during the war, he answered “We have no intention of bringing back the curfews. This is peace time and we will not let terrorists hold our city hostage with fear.”

The King has yet to comment on the attack, but the Waiczyn has already released a statement guaranteeing support for local governments to help maintain order and security within their cities. If this means increased military presence within the capital, or in other major cities, remains to be seen. But even now, it’s hard for people to feel at peace when the enemies of Arrandal continue to fight a war they supposedly lost.

Angus Steele announced at a press conference today that the Unification Era Honor Guard Flag is now retired, a new Modern Era Flag taking its place

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Interview with RFP candidate Gauthier Masson
By: Tristian Bachelet

With the 2023 Prime Minsterial and Parliamentary Elections on the horizon, the battle within the Royal Foundations Party to decide on a challenger to Solidarity's Madeline Ellison draws closer to a fever pitch with each passing day, as we near the July 1st RFP primary election. Lodestar News sat down with Mr. Gauthier Masson, one of the front runners and current MP Cecilia Bouchard's closest competition, to ask some questions and to gain his party's insight on the opposition.

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Tristain Bachelet: "Foundations has a very competitive field right now, with six of you having declared. Solidarity hasn't formally put anyone forward yet, though most people Lodestar News has talked to recently believe Prime Minister Ellison will be the RSP candidate. What is your take on the difference between the two races at this time?"

Gauthier Masson: "Foundations has nothing to lose. We do not have the prime ministership. Solidarity does. It is important for Foundations to put forward the best challenger to Madame Ellison."

Bachelet: "So you also believe they're running Ellison? That's a guarantee?"

Masson: "Of course. They have to. [If] Solidarity does not put Ellison on the ballot, they will lose."

Bachelet: "Why is that?"

Masson: "Solidarity is Her Highness' party - Claidie's party. Madeline has good working relationship with her, and they keep Solidarity focused on their agenda. No other Solidarity party member has Claidie's ear like her."

Bachelet: "But she also has Alice's ear as well, and Alice is more commonly associated with the Foundations party. Does that not have an impact on her position within Solidarity, given that Alice's agenda is much different compared to her sister?"

Masson: "No. Alice does not care that much about political agendas anymore. She has what she believes she was entitled to, but she regrets that. She wants to step away from politics, and her sister wants to too, and the prime minister will drive the agenda. That is why we focus on defeating Madame Ellison, because she will drive the agenda."

Bachelet: "How would you describe Miss Ellison and compare her to yourself?"

Masson: "Madame Ellison is a pretty face, but she is not a leader. She gains favor with the Silien people with charm, not with strength. She became Prime Minister to be a liaison between the people and Princess Claidie. But, the prime ministership has changed. It is not an advisory role anymore. The prime ministership must now make tough decisions, and [Prime Minister Ellison] cannot do that."

Bachelet: "What area of governance do you think she is the weakest at where you would excel?"

Masson: "We are a peaceful people, but she cannot prevent war from coming to us. She charms the Silien people but she cannot charm our enemies. Claidie has made enemies of Syrixia, and makes worse tension with Mintoria. Alice does not get along with Syrixia either. Madeline cannot contain them. She is a militiawoman, and puts faith in the militias to deter attacks. But, this cannot last. Syrixia will come with its navies. The militia cannot stop them. The Mintorians will come with their tanks. The militia cannot stop them either."

Bachelet: "And what would your approach to Syrixia and Mintoria be?"

Masson: "We must make clear that the prime ministership and the government makes the foreign policy. We cannot dislike another nation just because a princess does not like them, and we cannot have a nation dislike us because they do not like a princess. Think of Alice and her behavior at ANU before she was princess. They have not forgiven her. Or what she said about Regunalia when she went to their cultural exchange. They have not forgiven her for that either, and Madeline made things worse by noting it in her logs! An elected Prime Minister must take the lead and represent their people when royals defer that responsibility to them. Claidie and Alice have deferred to Madeline, and Madeline has not stepped up."

Bachelet: "It would seem as though most of your grievances have more to do with the performance of the co-monarchy than that of the Prime Minister."

Masson: "Yes and no. Solidarity is like rubber stamp for the monarchy, but Foundations party lays the foundation for the monarchy and its traditional roles. When Claidie and Alice lose their way, we must put them back on the trail. Madeline does not do this. She encourages them to wander off into the brush, or pushes them into it. Read her logs and how she pushed Alice off the trail in Prydania. She was on the path to a proper royal marriage, but now she's lost her way with some race car playboy."

Bachelet: "But Tobias was already in a relationship with Queen Alycia at that time. If anything, Madeline's efforts, as she described in her log, corrected an issue. Alice was on a path that would have caused conflict, and Madeline diverted her away from that conflict."

Masson: "No, I don't believe there would have been conflict. There would have been other royals or nobles to introduce them all to and it would have been sorted out."

Bachelet: "If you could summarize your grievance against the prime minister in once sentence, what would you say."

Masson: "Prime Minister Ellison has forgotten everything about who the Silien people are."

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Gauthier Masson currently trails Cecilia Bouchard in the polls 34% to 28%, with Camille Leclair in 3rd with 12%, Eugène Dennel with 8%, Odilon Voclain with 6%, and Laurent Segal with 2%. 10% of people polled were undecided.

MILTARY JUNTA'S SOLDIERS CAPTURE THE CAPITAL DISTRICT, WERDOI ESCAPES​

Comment Section:

SBC News

This is a live update covering an ongoing story. Please follow the instructions of the authorities and stay tuned for further information.

The Scalvian Air Force confirms, Aurorean fighter shot down over Scalvian airspace

After a recent massive violation of Scalvian airspace by the Aurorean Air Force, tensions have remained on a knife’s edge. Things came to a head today, as the Scalvian Air Force confirmed it had shot down an Aurorean combat aircraft that had refused to leave its airspace, and was starting to get close to a populated area.
Major General Priit Laaneots, Commander of the Scalvian Air Force, stated:
“Action had to be taken to protect life and property. As such we took the decision to shoot down the aircraft. The pilot ejected and is in our custody. We are preparing to hand him over as we speak.”
It is speculated that the Scalvian Aircraft involved in the incident was a Svjiiatys from the 1st Fighter Wing.
“HUD camera footage from the incident will be released publicly, to show that we had no other option, and the release will happen as soon, as the necessary permission has been granted,” the Commander of the Scalvian Air Force stated further.
The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement which read in part: “[…] This is a regrettable, but inevitable consequence of the Aurorea’s consistent violations of sovereign Scalvian territory. In order to avoid such unfortunate incidents in the future, we call on the Government of the Aurorea to avoid such actions in future.”
The Aurorea is yet to respond.
The Militia have been ordered into posts and a Shelter in Place order is in force across Southern Scalvia, including in all of Dogaži. Should you lose internet or TV access, tune to 531kHz on the AM band. Updates are also available on www.em.gov.sc You are advised to seek shelter, and seek a place of safety immediately.
Please do not call anyone. The telephone lines should remain open for Emergency use.

The President of the SF is set to address the nation at 7PM.

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Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Scalvians. In different circumstances I would say good evening, however the crisis we find ourselves in makes this tough to say. The situation is grim. The Aurorea, long a power intent on the complete destruction of our Federation, and its enslavement as servants to their "superior race," has finally gone the extra mile. As I'm sure you all know by now, today the Scalvian Air Force was forced to shoot down an Aurorean combat aircraft that was armed with air to ground weaponry, as it flew close to a major settlement. We were left with no other option. As I speak, the Aurorean Army is massing close to our borders. I have asked the Presidents of each Republic to mobilise the Militias, which they have complied with. I am in constant communication with our partners in Volshan and Esthursia, and we are discussing various measures. This is a grim time for peace on our continent, but our actions show that we remain committed to defending our liberty. Our peoples have, together, repelled all would be invaders who wished to extinguish the flame of liberty in our republics. We would much rather live in peace, and would be ready to share this continent with the Auroreans, but if we are left with no other option, the Brave, Strong and the Free shall answer the call. Just like our fathers before us, and their fathers before them. If we are left with no option, then let us show that this is our land, and nobody in this world except the almighty God can take it away from us.
To finish my message to you all tonight, borrowing from the Shaddaist bible, this will also pass.
Thank you all, and God bless you all, and God bless the Scalvian Federation.

“And now to some breaking news from the Scalvo-Aurorean Border. The Scalvian Border Guard has just confirmed that there was an exchange of fire near the Ukmergė Border Post. The Scalvian Border Guard has acknowledged two wounded on its side, claiming that thirteen Aurorean troops were killed or wounded. The Chief of the Scalvian Border Guard, Maj. Gen. Georg Krinsberg has released a statement which calls the firefight “the latest in a series of provocations from the Aurorean Armed Forces. Our men fired in self defence and acted with the utmost professionalism.”
The Aurorean Government has promised grave consequences, following the firefight, with…”

We apologise for the interruption to this broadcast.
Regularly scheduled programming has been suspended indefinitely.
Please stand by for a message from the Scalvian Emergency Broadcasting System.
Please pay attention to this message as it may contain information vital to your safety.

This is an Emergency Warning! Information of an attack against this country has been received. The current threat level is Emergency, this means an Emergency is in progress that will impact your safety. Seek shelter NOW! Seek a place of safety NOW! Ensure you have access to a battery powered radio tuned to 531 kHz on the AM band for instructions and information. Updates are also available on www.em.gov.sc, and on TV. If you have a mobile phone, turn it on now and enable Wi-Fi and cellular access. Emergency information will be transmitted to you where possible. Please do not make phone calls. The telephone lines should remain open for emergency use. Seek shelter NOW! Seek a place of safety NOW!
The Ministry of Defence Advises that a full scale attack against this country is in progress, launched from the Aurorea. There is a risk of extreme damage due to Aurorean air strikes. Emergency centres are open in major metropolitan areas, and are clearly signed-posted.
Civilians are advised not to leave their homes or emergency centres. Pedestrians should walk briskly, do not run. If driving within five minutes of your destination, complete your journey, then seek shelter. If further than five minutes from destination, pull over to the side of the road and seek shelter in the nearest building. Do not obstruct traffic. Highways will close in the coming hours.
The President and Government members have been moved to a place of safety.

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