Northern UtopiaBoard

Thanedom of jon wrote:

He couldn't move though, a mix of shock and awe at the large behemoths that had just landed in their time of need.

The leather seat was cold, Edwina felt the night air further as she dumped her heavy jacket over the back of the seat; she pulled her long blonde hair aside with one hand as she fumbled about inside the dark cockpit for the end of a heavy data cable.
Lights flickered on as the shouts of the crew rushing into the hangar echoed through the still open hatch, allowing Edwina to finally grasp at the cable that was embarrassingly slung across the back of her seat, coaxing out a frustrated mumble.
'The wagon is down... what's it looking like out there?'
Deftly inserting the cable into the back of neck through the small plastic cover, quickly following up by slamming down a hand upon the engine starter; the heavy button resisting her for a moment, giving way to spin up the heavy engine beneath her with a loud roar.
TACIT3 BOOTOS V1.220...
MEMORY ALLOCATION 3282228b OK...
CPU 380HZ, CLOCK SPEED NOMINAL.
BIOSIGN CONFIRMATION...
I/O HANDSHAKE...
A spark and quiver ran down the woman's spine as she began to feel the cold depths of the awakening machine, red lines and overlays beginning to flicker upon the transparent cockpit of the Touro mech, status lights and annunciation flashing in sequence as the beast's engine spooled to life, its low rumble washing over the quickly filling hangar.
'Two heavies and a crapload of infantry, no movement from the wagon... what the hell is going on?'
---
Pheonix-1 Naval Annex, Base Exterior
The lumbering Mammoth kept its distance from its disabled brethren, reversing back at a sharp angle to keep its bulk poised between the constant fire exchange between the lines of infantry; shimmering barrier flaring up as rounds sparked off and spiraled off into the night's sky, the scattered tracers seen across the island as the local population hid and cowered in the small towns.
High explosive ordinance poured into the makeshift cover of the attacking troops, the twin turreted cannons upon the heavy tank keeping constant fire upon the new arrivals, preventing the vehicle from meeting the same fate as the Carnival Wagon through its withering barrage of shells.
But the final screen of defensive fire quickly died out as the weapons began to seize or empty, the rapid ravaging laid out quickly expending the war machine's capacity to fight.
The colossi took scant seconds to barge through their fractured cover and barrel down upon the retreating vehicle, failing to notice the bulkhead doors opening once more...
It wasn't the rumble of tracks that emerged, the deep heavy thumps of metal on concrete as four heavy walkers practically marched up the ramp to the fight, two abreast and quickly pouncing, letting loose high explosive shells and pouring down bright red tracers from their stuttering machine-guns.
Caught flat footed, the only response was to charge... the humanoid constructs bounding gracefully compared to the rigid Touro mechs, clearing the dozens of meters courting only machinegun rounds and fragments from the near misses.
It leveraged the blunt end of its mighty weapon against the side of an unfortunate Touro and drove the metal beast deep into the concrete with a sickening crunch of metals cracking against each other, but victory was short lived as a high explosive shell from the victim's distraught colleague buried deep into the metal man's arm, blowing the limb clear and throwing it off balance, sealing its fate at the end of another shell.

Edwina stared down the ominous towering thing that was quickly closing with her, the armoured humanoid glimmering imposingly with the fires to its back, she counted the steps her Touro made as eased the throttle, slowing her advance just enough to zone in a single shot from the 105mm cannon... the reticule jittered with the already stretched stabilization, the giant hammer mere meters from her cockpit when the moment felt right to let loose, knowing there would only be one shot.
It slammed into the side of the humanoid's torso, detonating with enough force to cause the weapon to slip from its hand before a focused barrage of machinegun fire tore through the sensitive servos on its arm.
Seemingly enraged by its injury, it threw its entire bulk forwards towards her, Edwina thought fast and barely had enough time to bring the heavy metal shoe of her mech down upon the concrete with undue force, the sudden shift of ground tripping her attacker just long enough for the telltale clunk of the autoloader to indicate a round was in place.
The second shot blew open the mechanical innards of the giant humanoid machine, sparks and fluids spilling out onto the concrete as it struggled to move... with the phosphorous flames still burning, bodies strewn all around, she drove her Touro right to the dying machine and with a vindictive thrust, crushed it under the metal heel of her mech.
Edwina blinked and slowly looked around, the cracked cockpit giving her a wide view of the now still battlefield, searchlights sweeping across the carcasses of construction machines and workers alike, the guns were silent, the battle was over.
"Report from the Dis is that they are ready to provide air support as needed, over."
An exasperated laugh escaped Edwina as she opened up her radio channel, speaking loudly; "A little Irene damned late for that."

Feng Dynasty wrote:

"開宮門!" (Open the Palace Gates!) A herald cried.

The vast weight of the towering wooden doors creaked slowly open, to admit a column of entering North Electrican Delegacy into the expanse of the Yongan Palace. There was the deep, heart throbbing boom of enormous drums as the Imperial Entourage swept into view. Troops of servants fell to their knees as Empress Taihe herself stepped forward surrounded by servants, in a silken robe trailing six feet behind, and with hair elaborately tied and studded with jewels.
"My greetings." The Empress said, smiling, as she stepped forwards to meet their lead. "Your journey must have wearied you all. Would you care for a rest before we begin? I do have some fragrant tea of exquisite taste that I am eager to present." She smiled, awaiting reply.

North Electran Delegacy

The leading never nods her head to the Fengese Emperess.

Woman: "Thank you for you hospitality Your highness, if you wish we can discuss other topics as we prepare for the meeting." She says, looking over at her assistant and three guards, who either slightly shrug or nod in response. One of the guards just stood there not making a single sound or movement, but his eyes seem to convey a message of 'I only fallow orders'

Major Import Laws Approved by the Legislature

At the request of the Department of Homeland and Global Security, the legislature passed sweeping import law reform as part of a new policy by Director Leon Vance.

The new law, which is expected to pass and be signed by the President, will now ban all weapons, including all knives, or sharp objects, plants, laser products, and tobacco products.

" These new restrictions will ensure the safety of our people, community, economy, and agriculture. They may cause some short headaches for some, but the need for proactive measures will be worth it." stated Director Vance at a meeting with the Lower House Legislature.

The new restrictions will not go into effect for two full weeks, after that, Border Protection is expected to begin a "zero tolerance policy" for items on this list. Those who do try and sneak products into the country could face a fine as high as $2,000, a ban on entry to the country, and possible imprisonment.

First Presidential Debate Ends With No Clear Victory

The first of two Presidential debates has ended between United Future Party member President Williams, and Conservative nominee Mayor Robert Richie. Williams was going into the debate as the clear winner, but Richie surprised many, some calling him the winner.

Both candidates received a small bump in the polls, mostly coming from undecideds, which make up 12% of registered voters. The Williams campaign has announced plans to focus on the undecided voters over the next few weeks, while the Richie campaign is focusing on its efforts to regain momentum in the northeast and chip into the President's lead.

Currently, the President is polling 7 points ahead of the Mayor as we reach the halfway point in this campaign cycle.

Standoff In Tauranga

Federal Police in Trace County, on the northern part of Tauranga are in a standoff against 102 members of a cult. The group is led by Ashton Carter, who has referenced himself as the savior of mankind, and has 100 followers living in a compound just outside of the local town.

Federal police were exercising a federal search warrant after a month long investigation. The police were tipped off that the group's leader had been purchasing nearly half a million dollars in illegal weapons. When the Federal Police arrived on the scene, shots were exchanged. It is not clear at this time who fired first, but a near 30-minute exchange broke out resulting in the death of two individuals at the compound and one federal officer.

Negotiators arrived on scene just a short while ago as the group threatened to fire again at police if they came too close. Of the 100 members, 28 of them are children below the age of 18.

(OOC)

Hello all,

First off, I want to congratulate Grenopia and Hismat on their victory and wish you both the best of luck throughout your term. You both have some bold ideas that will hopefully work towards moving our region forward.

To those in the cabinet, both during my first and second term, I want to thank you for working alongside, coaching, and mentoring me throughout this journey.

To everyone else, I start by owing you an apology. I never thought things would get so bad in the real world that it would take a lot of my attention. However, I hope the work we did over the last six months can still allow this to be a successful term.

With that, I owe everyone in the region a thank you for your support and putting your trust in me, and this will conclude the AusValia administration.

Stay well, and see you in role play.

"High King Ferdon. You summoned me?" Amir came to a stop, bowing quickly before smoothing his elegant clothing.

The king moved forward in his throne, eyeing the other for a moment before leaning back again. "I am sending you to our new allies in Jezabelstien. Expect a great deal of time just to get in. But, this is very important. You must he them to help us modernize. We need a modern fleet and modern urbanisation. As well, we need help building up our standing army. Offer them exclusive trade deals, beg if need be. This country cannot die. But it will, if we don't get their help. Now go. And bring the blueprints for the hammerhead. Perhaps their submarine experts can make it even better. They may even help build them. Death guide you, diplomat."

"Death guide you, your grace." Once again he bowed, not keen on questioning orders.

Neyde spears kingdom wrote:

"Ehieuri3hrkdodhdls zo3j3858&@÷¥÷£&~{28\{●♤●■♤"

"Well, I didn't expect it to be that easy" Darnia remarked, as the 'ship burglars' as they had come to be known by the three, lay in what used to be Darnia, Mikhail, and Liaku's beds, tied up and immobilised. While they had been expecting to have to fight them, the moment they burst into the three's sleeping quarters and drew arms, they immediately surrendered seeing as they had nothing to fight back with. After that, Reyna had been freed and put to the task of getting the ship back to the dock in Poreliscav; however being one person that task was next to impossible. Liaku then re-entered the room, after being sent to check on Reyna's progress. "How's she doing?"
"She's got no chance of getting this thing going without a crew - we're going to have to ask for one from the SRN; it'll blow the operation, but at least we'll get the ship back"
"Look: we went into this as a covert operation, we're not blowing our own cover that easily; there's got to be another way"
"Doesn't look like it"
"You two going to keep nattering like an old couple, or do you want breakfast?" Mikhail then came into the room, holding two plates with strips of bacon on
"Yeah, I'll take that thanks. Where's the coffee by the way?" Liaku was too engrossed in his food to ask any questions
"So, a load of it leaked at some point, so there was only enough for one person; and may I remind you who cooked breakfast today?"
"Of course you'd take it - although, you barely function without coffee so I can't blame you" The three than ate breakfast in silence, after which they headed upstairs to survey the surroundings.
They had ended up in a lagoon like area in the Queendom: the Failnaught was floating on water that was so clear you could see your reflection clearly from high above the sea level. It was flanked by incredibly high mountains that blocked your sight on every angle except for a small mouth just barely wide enough to fit the superheavy carrier through. On the side of one of the cliff faces their appeared to be a small cave opening where a wide variety of strange noises were originating from. The three just passed it off as the wind howling, however.
"So, how much longer will we be stuck here?"
"Assuming they fly the crew in, about another day, then at least a week at sea" Reyna had just come up from her new found home in the engine room of the ship to answer Darnia's question.
"Ah thank goodness, I think I might go crazy living off Mikhail's bacon rations for any longer than that"
"Now that is just uncalled for, come on"
"Oh it's totally called for"
"Definitely"
"Mmhmm"
"I am under siege at all times in this group aren't I?" After the other three unanimously agreed that Mikhail's cooking was subpar, he proceeded to sulk before trying to find a different topic for conversation. "You know, I'm still holding out hope that we'll find a way to get it back without having to blow the operation to the navy" Darnia couldn't help but agree
"Yeah, as much as I detest your cooking I'd rather not blow the operation; and especially not have it blown by the navy - they're all a bunch of complete gossipers; I'm surprised that Kinny bloke didn't go an tell all his friends that he lost his own ship" Reyna wasn't all to happy her own department was getting trash talked right in front of her.
"Oi, I am right here you know?"
"Oh- er, yeah of course I knew, hehe, none of that includes you of course..."
"Right, totally... What's Liaku doing anyway?"
Liaku had been silent during the whole conversation as he was currently analysing the ident in the mountain that kept producing weird and wonderful sounds. Currently, it sounded like an engine was revving up while some sort of creature was roaring in the background.
"Hey, that cave over there makes some weird noises doesn't it?" Reyna nodded her head in agreement, while Liaku continued to scrutinise what could be seen of the entrance. Darnia, on the other hand, paid the conversation no mind.
"Yeah, it does get pretty eerie at night..."
"Oh, don't be such babies; it's just the wind - you know where I used to live there were storms all the time and the wind would blow through the cracks in the walls so it sounded just like that every nig-"
"Umm, that is not just the wind..." Darnia's tangent was cut short as Liaku got the other three to look towards the cave entrance to see a helicopter rising from the hole. Mikhail was the first to respond, as Liaku was simply incredibly confused, and the two girls were still shocked in awe.
"That... cannot be safe in any way shape or form; why are they lau- WHAT ACTUALLY IS THAT?" As if a helicopter seemingly rising from underground wasn't enough, it was soon trailed by a flying... something. It was a cyclops like creature - in that it had one ginormous eye and in literally no other way: it had unnerving, scally green skin with wings that were unreasonably small for such a giant creature. It's body was shaped like an oversized balloon; the majority of its form was a huge sphere with a small tail trailing off at the end. Currently, it seemed intent on attacking this helicopter that had just left before it with it's rather menacingly long and sharp claws.
Despite the helicopter's best efforts, the creature was able to catch up to it effortlessly and practically swat the helicopter out of the sky into the lagoon right next to the SRN Failnaught. Seemingly, it wasn't satisfied with this though as it then catapulted towards down towards the helicopter. Darnia this time was the first to come to her senses.
"Wh-wh-what is that thing?" However her question couldn't be answered as the being paused in the sky, then changed direction
"Well I'll tell you what it's doing: it's coming straight for us!" Upon Liaku saying this; the being crash landed on to the deck of the ship; causing severe damage and significantly tipping the ship over with its weight. It then let out an ear-piercing roar:"?♫Dï=Q-2∟Dò‼æ3╓2ÿ"æ2æaG╒»=⌐╥╓:¼" and proceeded to close in on its opponents. The battle with the Skyfoogle then began.

NU Vision
Hi sluts. Its Nicki Minaj here. The NSK television directors got bored so we're opening up Neyde Vision to the world.
So here's what you gotta do: telegram us a YouTube link to your song (OOC: This can be any song of your choice!) And it will be put in a playlist. After a day or two, depending on the entry numbers, we will give a link with the playlist and a voting form. You can give a number of points to 5 songs. Then, after the voting period ends, we will reveal the results!
The rules include no voting for yourself, no "idk" votes and no entering potentially offensive songs! We have standards here.
The winner gets free tickets to the Nicki Minaj world tour. As well as a large sum of money, nuclear weapons and you get to choose the theme for next months contest. This month there is no specific theme so go wild!
So what are you waiting for? Get entering! (And buy my new single)

Tauranga Hostage Standoff Enters Day Two

After a full 24-hours of negotiations, Federal Police have reported they are no closer to ending the standoff with a cult in Trace County. One-hundred and two members, led by their leader Ashton Carter have held up in a compound after a near thirty-minute gunfight with police yesterday, leading to the deaths of three people.

Hostage negotiations began first thing this morning, and were reported to be going well, however, things quickly fell apart when Carter said he had new visions to stay with his people,

" At the start of Friday, Mr. Carter was willing to leave the compound peacefully. This evening he later told negotiators that he had been given a vision to stay with his people.", Officer in Charge, David Palmer.

Police are being challenged, as the group is well armed and stocked with supplies,

"We are unsure if we can wait them out, and because of the heat warnings this weekend, along with the safety of the children, we are trying to avoid shutting off the electricity, however it may come to that."

Negotiators are trying to avoid escalating the situation and are focused on trying to free the twenty-eight children still trapped inside.

Political Push Back for the Situation

The hostage situation has quickly built to national headlines and fueled members of the radical right who believe this is a massive government overreach. Protests have broken out outside the police zone and throughout the nation calling for the police to back down,

"This is a church, a clear violation of these people's rights, for what, some guns?" Steve Atherton, a community resident.

Even members of the legislature have questioned the tactics of the Federal Police which led to the deaths of two members of the group and one Federal Officer. Director Vance of the Federal Police has stood by his officers,

"Our officers were serving a valid search warrant for the illegal holding of explosives and modified guns to the value of over half a million dollars. Ashton Carter had and still has the opportunity to end this for the safety of everyone involved. He is the only one to blame."

-[INCOMING COMMUNICATION]-
-[FROM: HIGHCOM]-
-{CLEARANCE LVL: PRIORITY-COM /ECHO/INDIGO/ALPHA/-1025}-
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[CLEARANCE CODE: 73101 ]
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[COMMUNICATION DELIVERED]

1.7.7.22.13.7.18.12.14.-
1.6.7.19.12.9.18.1.22.4.-
9.13.21.18.15.7.9.26.7.18.12.14.-
15.21.-
12.22.8.8.22.18.-
9.8.-
3.12.13.21.18.9.14.22.4.-

7.12.23.8.11.22.22.4.-
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—[COMMUNICATION END]—

AusValia wrote:

Tauranga Hostage Standoff Enters Day Two

After a full 24-hours of negotiations, Federal Police have reported they are no closer to ending the standoff with a cult in Trace County. One-hundred and two members, led by their leader Ashton Carter have held up in a compound after a near thirty-minute gunfight with police yesterday, leading to the deaths of three people.

Hostage negotiations began first thing this morning, and were reported to be going well, however, things quickly fell apart when Carter said he had new visions to stay with his people,

" At the start of Friday, Mr. Carter was willing to leave the compound peacefully. This evening he later told negotiators that he had been given a vision to stay with his people.", Officer in Charge, David Palmer.

Police are being challenged, as the group is well armed and stocked with supplies,

"We are unsure if we can wait them out, and because of the heat warnings this weekend, along with the safety of the children, we are trying to avoid shutting off the electricity, however it may come to that."

Negotiators are trying to avoid escalating the situation and are focused on trying to free the twenty-eight children still trapped inside.

Political Push Back for the Situation

The hostage situation has quickly built to national headlines and fueled members of the radical right who believe this is a massive government overreach. Protests have broken out outside the police zone and throughout the nation calling for the police to back down,

"This is a church, a clear violation of these people's rights, for what, some guns?" Steve Atherton, a community resident.

Even members of the legislature have questioned the tactics of the Federal Police which led to the deaths of two members of the group and one Federal Officer. Director Vance of the Federal Police has stood by his officers,

"Our officers were serving a valid search warrant for the illegal holding of explosives and modified guns to the value of over half a million dollars. Ashton Carter had and still has the opportunity to end this for the safety of everyone involved. He is the only one to blame."

Rossendam, National Intelligence Agency Operational HQ
3rd May 2020

The voice of the TV presenter has been ignored so far, with everybody in the hall having something better to do than watch the stupid 6 PM news issue of the Central Broadcasting Service. The monotonous sound of typing keyboards, sometimes accompanied by hurried footsteps and the sharp ringing of phones (Arwindom is notorious for its continued use of old-fashioned "buzzers") suggested that there was plenty of work to be done.

Suddenly, one of the agents faced away from his monitor and turned, alerted, towards the TV. "...the AusValian Federal Police have reported they are no closer to ending the standoff with a cult..." - the TV presenter kept speaking, while a video from an AusValian police helmet camera was streamed onto the screen. "Stupid AusValians" - the agent thought as he turned back towards his monitor. "Always something brewing up over there" - he thought while re-reading an email from his supervisor for what seemed like the 20th time.

He couldn't stay focused, however. Something seemed off. He turned back towards the TV, this time to the phrase "hostage negotiations" accompanied by gunfire. Something was off, definitely, but he couldn't understand what. "Carter" - he thought. "Seems familiar".

By now, a dozen other agents were also looking at the TV, confused, not knowing what distracted them. Colonel Webster also noticed the commotion, briefly raising his head above a report he was reading. "Get back to work, ladies!" - he barked, annoyed at the rapidly dropping level of concentration in the hall. But now he was also distracted. Something did seem special about this footage.

A door slammed open as a young lieutenant burst into the room, accompanied by several other agents. "Colonel Webster!" - they shouted, rushing towards the colonel's desk. "Colonel Webster!"

10 minutes later

As the audience quickly settled down, Colonel Webster, director of the 3rd Section of the Counter-Intelligence Department of the NIS, started to speak.

"It is only by accident, gentlemen, by a sudden turn of fortune that we now know what we didn't know just thirty minutes ago" - he spoke confidently and distinctively from the podium, making a brief pause after every word. "Our colleagues in the AusValian Federal Police have contacted us earlier today, sending us a list of the known cult members that are right now, as we speak, besieged by AusValian authorities after resisting a search and starting a firefight which has already claimed the lives of three people" - the Colonel paused, to let what he had just said sink into the ears of his listeners.

"They asked us whether one of the names seemed in any way familiar. At first, we didn't understand what this had to do with us. But after re-reading the list several times, our agents have reached a shocking conclusion. "

"James Morton, one of the hundred-twenty-two cult members currently engaged against the AusValian police, is... is not James Morton at all. Gentlemen, the AusValian police have unknowingly cornered Frederick DeBianchi, known mafiosi and terrorist, leader of "Spades", the group responsible for the 2004 Rossendam Underground bombings as well as numerous other events which I don't feel the need to mention here as they are known by all Arwindens."

"Mr. DeBianchi has been pursued by our authorities for nearly 16 years now in a terrible game of cat and mouse. He outwitted us, numerous times. We have no idea how any why he escaped to AusValia, but now, it seems, justice has finally caught up to him."

Grave silence filled the conference hall before erupting into a terrible storm of clapping, cheering and screaming. "Ladies and Gentlemen..." - the Colonel spoke amidst continuing celebration - "They got him."

Horhafen RAF, 20 minutes later

"Rider 1, ready for takeoff!" - the pilot announced over the intercom, laying his hand on the engine throttle of his "Maverick" military transport aircraft. "Rider 1, cleared for takeoff!" - the answer came, and the 66 tonnes of sheer awesomeness sprung from their place and rolled forward, speeding up faster and faster along the runway under the low, steady buzz of its four mighty propfan engines, to be followed soon after by another "Maverick" and then yet another one.

----------------

The National Intelligence Service Directorate asks the government of AusValia for permission for its armed agents to join the standoff at Trace Country.

It's a matter of national pride for Arwindom to ensure justice catches up to this piece of human scum who has the audacity to call himself a man. We currently have several aircraft airborne loaded with agents and operators from the 27th Special Ops. Division who, with your permission, will head to AusValia to assist your law enforcement officials in orchestrating the negotiations with the cult members or arresting them by force, as well as bringing Mr. DeBianchi to the Commonwealth to face justice in the court of law.

Dispatch from the Ministry of Foreign Relations

Commonwealth of Arwindom.

Tauranga Stand off Day 3

Today has been the most successful of the three-day standoff after twenty-one people, nineteen of which are children have been released from the compound led by Ashton Carter, a man who believes he is the savior of all of mankind.

The twenty-one people released came out in exchange for food and supplies, but they claim to have been released voluntarily. Meanwhile, eighty-one are still being held.

The stand-off has garnered so much attention that the Presidential Palace has ordered daily briefings from the Director of the Federal Police. Many at police headquarters seem to agree with a need to apply pressure to Mr. Carter in attempt to speed up negotiations. However, in a released memo, profilers warn that increasing tactical pressure "could eventually be counterproductive and could result in loss of life."

President Williams Soars in New Poll

With only two weeks until election day, President Williams is leading Mayor Robert Richie by twelve points. Neither side has shown a hint of slowing down as the Williams campaign has announced an aggressive, "four cities a day" campaign scheduled to finish off the last five days. Meanwhile, Richie is spending his time in the Southern cities of Perth, Bryon Bay, and Williamsburg.

Meanwhile, Conservatives in down-ticket-races are showing some concerns, especially in the Lower House in which the United Future Party is not losing in a single seat they need. The President has focused his attention on trying to win back the Upper House, after being controlled by the Conservatives for the last six years.

President's Unveils Economic Package

While campaigning, President Williams has announced plans for his new Business Economic Package. Some of which are as follows:

1. Large business loans with low interest rates being offered ONLY to small businesses which may be struggling

2. Business loans with high interest rates being offered to major corporations as a form of bailout or assistance.

3. Expansion of Unemployment Insurance to cover 4% more of earnings in the last paycheck

These reforms caused some concern amongst the populace. While many rejoiced at the economic aid coming their way. A minority voiced concerns over how the AUS would fund such projects. While no deal has been completely agreed upon, it appears it will pass the legislature.

Election Day in AusValia

Exit Poll Update:

Williams/Hoynes (UFP)- 597,343
Richie/McAvoy (ACP)- 551,794

Lower House
UFP- Chances of majority- 51%
ACP- Chances of majority- 49%

Upper House
ACP- Chances of majority- 45%
UFP- Chances of majority- 50%

Election Day in AusValia

Exit Poll Update:

Williams/Hoynes (UFP)- 9,438,042
Richie/McAvoy (ACP)- 7,992,713

Lower House
UFP- Chances of majority- 51%
ACP- Chances of majority- 49%

Upper House
ACP- Chances of majority- 35%
UFP- Chances of majority- 65%

THE DENMARKIAN NEWS

Increased support for foster families.

OOC; Elections are going to be put on ice until I can get back and actually make it worthwhile.

Nationwide violence, be it physical, sexual, or psychosocial, are at an all-time low, which obviously, is fantastic, however, whilst many figures are going on a downward line, many figures show an opposite trend, which has been ignored for an inexcusable amount of time, and now with the new figures, the issue simply cannot be ignored any longer.

The issue of child abuse has, without an excusable, or valid reason, been left relegated to the darkness of many a politician’s mind, which, doesn’t include the damages from not stepping in and taking necessary actions so to not cause any further unnecessary damage to the next generation.

However, as it first my seem bleak, there is now finally light at the end of the oh so dim tunnel, which we may call politics, for now, with the newest investigations and data possible in front of the current government, it would come as no shock to the mind of many that horrified, and absolutely in shock, would be the preferred way of telling the faces of the many politicians who read through the report.

And horrified was the intended reaction many had hoped to see, as the report goes to the increases of child abuse throughout the years, the newest data shows that just a year ago, calls for child protective services for neglected and abused children by family, or relatives or others went from 842 to 1453 which is an increase of 72,5%. And with the newest data from last month, the numbers are still rising. From 1214 to 2153 which is an increase of 77.3%.

With all that data it came as a no brainer that effective and diligent actions must be taken, and quickly, which was seen occurring with breakneck speed as politicians called for assistance from various experts from their respective field of expertise.

With the speed that this is currently undergoing, the needed changes to the foster care system are expected to come sooner rather than later, which, is always good news.

OOC; as someone who lives with a foster family this resonates with me a fair bit, was also the reason as to write it. I hope it’s at least somewhat decent.

President Williams Wins in a Landslide

Last night the voters spoke, and overwhelming voted to give John Williams a second term as President. All told, the President received nearly six million more votes than that of Conservative candidate, Mayor Robert Richie. Williams will be the first of the last two Presidents to serve a second term.

However, many political experts are calling this the "lonely landslide" as the United Future Party lost more seats than they picked up in the legislature. The Conservatives picked up seven more seats in the Upper House, a place where the President spent a lot of time and money campaigning to take back.

Meanwhile, the Lower House will be tied for the first time in the nation's history, with 50 Conservatives and 50 United Future members. With the Head of the Head up for grabs in a crucial Lower House vote, the UFP is doing all they can not to lose all of the legislature.

Standoff Enters Day Six

There has been no clear end in sight for the longest Federal Standoff in the nation's history. Ashton Carter has been held up with the remaining members of his church since the Federal Police engaged in a shootout with the cult, leading to the deaths of two members and one federal officer. As it stands, twenty-three people have left the compound, leaving seventy-one still inside.

Mr. Carter and his group show no signs of compliance, rather it appears both sides are engaging in a psychological power struggle.

"We have no intention of allowing this to drag on forever. If negotiations are not more fruitful, we may be taking action as early as this weekend." Special Agent in charge, Jarrod Howard.

The Federal Police have cut all electricity to the compound and are promising increasing pressure unless Mr. Carter ends the standoff.

Xeon 1 Takes Orbit

The first AusValian craft to extend past the moon has reached its final destination, the Bahram orbit. Equipped with nearly a dozen cameras, its mission is to fly past Bahram and send back pictures of the surface of the planet. The satellite will orbit the planet for several weeks allowing scientists to make a complete 3-D mapping of the planet.

"This information will be instrumental in our understanding of other planets and the creation of the universe. Xeon 1 will give us the inspiration to reach further into the cosmos." ACA Director Gene Kranz.

The ACA will begin releasing the photos over the next couple of weeks and say it could take a month or more to put together the 3-D model.

Dispatch from Skeld's Government House:

The Prime Minister of Skeld set his pen down with rigour, gazing out to sea from his office window. "Oh that's quite interesting. It appears that other countries exist", he muttered to himself.
The Foreign Trade Act, which he then signed after its passage in Parliament, opened the ports of Halifax, Bethelton, Ny Tromsø, Silbertsvík, and Kirkja to foreign trade; ending years of national isolation.

Dispatch from Minister of Foreign Relations, Trent Larsson:

"The Commonwealth of Skeld is open to trade dialogue with other nations, and would like to export fine Skeld cheeses, knit wool sweaters, and cod by the boatload. Additionally, Skeld is open to establishing lines of diplomatic communication and embassies abroad."

AusValia wrote:

Xeon 1 Takes Orbit

The first AusValian craft to extend past the moon has reached its final destination, the Bahram orbit. Equipped with nearly a dozen cameras, its mission is to fly past Bahram and send back pictures of the surface of the planet. The satellite will orbit the planet for several weeks allowing scientists to make a complete 3-D mapping of the planet.

"This information will be instrumental in our understanding of other planets and the creation of the universe. Xeon 1 will give us the inspiration to reach further into the cosmos." ACA Director Gene Kranz.

The ACA will begin releasing the photos over the next couple of weeks and say it could take a month or more to put together the 3-D model.

She awoke to the sound of the call alarm. Half a second apart, so... one minute until the arrival of the main message? She climbed out of her sleeping bag, grabbed the nearest maneuver pole, pushed off to the terminal....

G-d spoke- a calming tone, if slightly emotionless. "Good morning, Madayil. The interloper spacecraft discussed earlier has assumed its orbit. You will board the ship and create renditions of the interloper based on the half-hour rendezvous and the ship's camera footage. Are you excited, my Madayil? You have not had the opportunity to do this for a long while." She nodded to a nonexistent camera- G-d's eyes could be focused anywhere, after all- and pressed her maneuver pole against the blank patch of wall to proceed to the berth. Most of the station was crammed with machinery, but G-d had furnished her with a ship- and the ship's top had a wide clear bulb for her to conduct studies through. Now the station computer hummed, the ship computer hummed in response- and the hatch slowly closed. The ship pushed off from the station gently, then began turning...

The planet below came into view. A wide orange globe, slowly spinning below. Then the great Eye of G-d, shining just a few light-minutes away...
And the engine started. A fist rather than the slow and steady barely-noticeable motion of the reboost thrusters. She wondered what was powering that fist.

Previously

Feng Dynasty wrote:

"開宮門!" (Open the Palace Gates!) A herald cried.

The vast weight of the towering wooden doors creaked slowly open, to admit a column of entering North Electrican Delegacy into the expanse of the Yongan Palace. There was the deep, heart throbbing boom of enormous drums as the Imperial Entourage swept into view. Troops of servants fell to their knees as Empress Taihe herself stepped forward surrounded by servants, in a silken robe trailing six feet behind, and with hair elaborately tied and studded with jewels.
"My greetings." The Empress said, smiling, as she stepped forwards to meet their lead. "Your journey must have wearied you all. Would you care for a rest before we begin? I do have some fragrant tea of exquisite taste that I am eager to present." She smiled, awaiting reply.

North Electrica wrote:

North Electran Delegacy

The leading never nods her head to the Fengese Emperess.

Woman: "Thank you for you hospitality Your highness, if you wish we can discuss other topics as we prepare for the meeting." She says, looking over at her assistant and three guards, who either slightly shrug or nod in response. One of the guards just stood there not making a single sound or movement, but his eyes seem to convey a message of 'I only fallow orders'

Empress Taihe smiled, her radiant face an image of elegance and grace. The flower of Feng, she was called, in her years as Princess Chun. Her golden eyes, a color once common in the Hua and now a rare sight, sparkled with light. "Do come with me than, I am sure that a cup of tea would restore your strength.

****

https://5b0988e595225.cdn.sohucs.com/images/20180915/1b8aa4e0a46845c8a818612d9422e664.jpeg
Mingyue Pavillion

Phoenixes strutted through the gardens, their golden plumage gleaming in the sun. Their train of feathers trailed the grass bright and clear. Away on the Palace's vast lake they sat, upon the Mingyue Pavillion (明月楼). The smell of tea was not too soft, nor too great. It mixed with the sweet scent of cakes and pastries that piled elegantly upon plates on the table.
"Our guests seem hot." The Empress smiled. "Do fan our Electrican visitors for us, it would not do to have their discomfort."
The ice clinked softly at the porcelain teacups, cooling their tea.

"So you say you wish to build a military base in our north." The Empress asked, smoothing her robes. "If I may, could I ask for what purpose?"

NU Vision Voting
Hello, thank you to all those who entered! We've have 5 wonderful and varied entries this time, from the following nations:
Kjanu
The Soviet state of Svalbard
Of denmarkia
United Kingdom of Miotia-Candor
Feng Dynasty

Now, the playlist with all the songs is here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMATiKRygYDxHVc0R3bbzhuzvK7rbb4aX
(Please be sure to look at the playlist description to see who entered which song)

As for voting, please remember you cannot vote for yourself and you must vote for nations who have entered. Or else face being nuked. And anybody can vote! Whether you entered or not.
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Without further ado, let's get voting!!