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| Rokkenjima Broadcasting Corporation | ||
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| Topic Started: 19th November 2013 - 04:38 AM (23,103 Views) | ||
| Beatrice | 19th November 2013 - 04:38 AM Post #1 | |
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 Welcome to the Rokkenjiman Broadcasting Corporation - RBC: your leading source for unbiased coverage of the domestic and foreign stories that matter most to you. Whether it's the latest from Pyrena Castle or stories from abroad read it first on the RBC. Domestic news is available online (rbcnews.rk), via radio (RBC-3, RBC-5) and on television (RBC News One).  RBC World is your leading international news organization. Our network of journalists and correspondents provide timely, impartial news, reports and analysis. Services are available online (rbcworld.rk), via radio (RBC-7), and on television (RBC World Service). Our coverage is available in all major languages, including specialized services such as the Cotf Arayne Service. Today's News Briefs I: Medical Marijuana Legalized The Imperial Government has sent instruction to law enforcement officials of all levels that the possession, transport and use of marijuana for medicinal purposes shall no longer be offenses against Imperial law. “The medicinal uses of this plant have been recorded throughout the ages, and as such the Imperial Government adjusts its law in accordance with that wisdom. The medicinal properties of marijuana are hereby recognized by the First Empire, and any such laws or regulations against its medicinal use are now struck null and void.” II: Genetically Modified Foods Phased Out Recognizing the potential for harm and abuse the First Empire is announcing a phasing out of all genetically modified food products until such a time these foods make up no portion of the Imperial food supply. This ban, naturally, does not apply to natural interactions which, throughout human history, have occurred many times, with most beneficial results. Cross-breeding, hybrids, and products derived from such, shall be permitted under this new policy. Manipulating DNA, transplanting animal DNA to other animals and/or plants, or vice versa, shall be phased out over a period of five years. Foreign imports of such modified products have already begun their phase out. III. Clean and Renewable Energy Initiative The Empress made clear at the beginning of her reign that for Neo Rokkenjima to thrive clean, renewable sources of energy must be actively pursued. To eliminate the First Empire's dependence on fossil fuels automobiles and military vehicles are being pursued which utilize renewable clean fuel sources to improve the environment and eliminate the risk of the First Empire from running out of energy on the domestic front and in its expanding military commitments. As part of the First Empire's campaign for clean and sustainable resources, for energy and other purposes, a subsidy shall be provided to farmers who allot at least 10% of their arable land to the growth and production of hemp. Further funds shall be available to those who produce fuel and other goods from this product. The practice of using corn as a source for biomass shall be phased out over a period of five years. Edited by Beatrice, 2nd June 2014 - 06:38 AM.
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| Beatrice | 21st November 2013 - 07:54 PM Post #2 | |
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Today's News Briefs Sir Ronove Elected Prime Minister:  Prime Minister Ronove After the abrupt resignation of Evangeline Snowden a special election was held to determine her successor. The people have spoken and Sir Ronove has been elected to serve as the second Prime Minister of Neo Rokkenjima. A founding member of the Imperialist Party Sir Ronove stood by the side of the Empress upon her return to Rokkenjima and has played a key role in the establishment of the Imperial Government. As a stalwart ally of the Empress confrontations between the Prime Minister and the Empress, which would have been possible if Liberal Party candidate Alexander Roberts had won, have become a near impossibility. The Empress offered a brief statement concerning the former Prime Minister: "While I'm saddened by Evangeline's resignation I'm pleased that Sir Ronove has gained the trust of the people to take her place. Evangeline will remain at Pyrena Castle as my Chief of Staff, a position which is more compatible with her skills and desires in my Government." The new Prime Minister shared the following message upon his election: "The progress the Imperial Government has made following the defeat of the Republicans has been remarkable. I've had the pleasure of working with the Empress through every step of the process, and now that service enters yet another phase. As Prime Minister I will work to see that the agenda of Her Imperial Majesty encounters no roadblocks and is allowed to continue its work for the people of Neo Rokkenjima. I thank the voters for granting me this chance to serve them, for furthering the mandate the Empress has earned from them, and for reaffirming the work this Government has done, and continues to do, for them." IRS Creeping Death Enters Service:  Two new submarines have entered service in the Imperial Navy today, seeing their deployments into the territorial waters of Neo Rokkenjima.IRS Hunting Girl, the newest Ruby Class submarine, set sail with IRS Creeping Death, the first of the Imperial Navy's Millennial Class ballistic missile submarines. Carrying 20 Century FOBS missiles, armed with the Mark II Thermobaric Warhead, Creeping Death marks the first time the First Empire has fielded a deterrent platform. Newly elected Prime Minister Ronove issued the following statement concerning the occasion: "In an age of increased tension, with states capable of wiping out entire cities at the mere push of a button, Neo Rokkenjima is forced to respond to this threat in kind. Creeping Death has yet to be deployed in recognition of the current peace talks in Ecclesiarreich, however upon the conclusion of those talks she will lurk the seas, capable of acting should weapons of mass destruction be used against Neo Rokkenjima or her allies. I must note that the Mark II warhead, while a potent weapon, should not be considered on the same scale as nuclear or biological weapons. Century is a platform of precision which poses no threat to civilian centres and is only a threat to the military installations of those nations who attack Neo Rokkenjima with weapons capable of much greater evils than the Century." Edited by Beatrice, 21st November 2013 - 10:23 PM.
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| Beatrice | 25th November 2013 - 07:14 PM Post #3 | |
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Today's News Briefs Royal Flags Reintroduced to the Empire: The Empress has done away with the flag and symbols instituted under the Federal Republic, replacing them with the flags used during the time of the Royal Provinces. Via Imperial Decree the Empress has introduced the following flags for the official use of the First Empire:  Flag of the First Empire of Neo Rokkenjima Also serves as the Naval Ensign of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy The Flag of Neo Rokkenjima has a red disc, symbolizing both the sun and Rokkenjima Isle, the disc being aligned closer to the left of the flag. This represents Rokkenjima as the Land of the Rising Sun while also symbolizing the location of Rokkenjima Isle, being closer to the provinces of Austrana, Estvua and Kavania (which also became a part of the Rokkenjiman state before Ecskana and Arovium). The rays which extend from the disc symbolize the rays of the Rising Sun, as well as the links between Rokkenjima Isle, her Provinces, and the seas around her.  Flag of the Empress of Neo Rokkenjima The Chrysanthemum is the symbol of the Empress, and also stands as a symbol of Imperial power in Neo Rokkenjima. It first served as the symbol of the Queen of the Royal Provinces and was officially restored by Empress Beatrice in 2013.  Flag of the Vicegerent of Neo Rokkenjima The Chrysanthemum also appears on the Flag of the Vicegerent, symbolizing that the authority of the Vicegerent derives from the Empress.  Flag of the Civilian Government Also serves as the Civilian Ensign of Neo Rokkenjima The Flag of the Civilian Government features the disc which symbolizes the sun and Rokkenjima Isle, however, this iteration of the flag lacks the rays which are found on the Imperial flag. This symbolizes the Civilian Government's position of servitude to the Empress and her People, and recognizes that supremacy rests in the hands of the Empress.  Imperial War Standard of Neo Rokkenjima The Imperial War Standard features a more centered disc than the flag of Neo Rokkenjima. In times of war it symbolizes Islyna, the All-Mother, extending her protection over Neo Rokkenjima, radiating her guidance, protection, and knowledge over Rokkenjima, her people, and her Army wherever it may be serving around the world. The Empress comments on Chernobereg Referendum: The Empress offered the following commentary regarding the vote of the People of Chernobereg to reinstate their Monarchy: "I congratulate the People of Chernobereg on the success of their democratic system yesterday. With a voter turnout of 76%, which is in itself worthy of commendation, the people have used their voice to support the restoration of their Monarchy. I wish the nation of Chernobereg the best of wishes as the vote turns to selecting an Emperor. The First Empire will recognize the new Emperor upon his selection and looks forward to building a healthy relationship between the First Empire and Chernobereg during the course of his Reign. "At the same time I stand as a proponent for the institution of the Monarchy, as an unrestricted democracy is inherently unstable, undesirable and ineffective in the governance of a nation. I trust that the people of Chernobereg will be better served by their Emperor and will come to realize the stability monarchy imparts upon a nation. Whomever is selected to be the Emperor of Chernobereg shall be invited to Pyrettania so that we may engage in talks covering a variety of issues of mutual concern." Edited by Beatrice, 25th November 2013 - 07:16 PM.
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| Beatrice | 3rd December 2013 - 09:27 PM Post #4 | |
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Today's News Briefs Creeping Death and Hunting Girl surface near Dartfordia for Port Visit:  Hunting Girl nears the waters of Dartfordia for a Port Visit with Creeping Death Amidst conflict against the GRA and increasing difficulties in the Peace Conference the IRS Creeping Death and Hunting Girl left Rokkenjiman waters some hours ago to make a port visit in the Kingdom of Dartfordia. "This port visit marks the first time the newest submarines of the Imperial Navy have left Rokkenjiman waters. These vessels have embarked upon this voyage with no hostile intentions and their mission is to build links between the navies of our CSTO allies. Hunting Girl is special in comparison to her sisters, equipped to also serve in a signal analysis role, amongst other capabilities that are still classified, while laying quietly beneath the waves. Creeping Death, the first of our ballistic missile vessels, also represents the best of Imperial submarine capabilities." The vessels are expected to spend two days in a Dartfordian port before making their way for similar visits in Communist Quinntopia, Kazarovia and Elpidia before returning to Rokkenjiman waters. |
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| Beatrice | 6th December 2013 - 02:49 AM Post #5 | |
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Today's News Briefs Imperial Submarines complete visit in Dartfordia, depart for Communist Quinntopia:  Creeping Death near the Kingdom of Dartfordia Dartfordian sailors were welcomed aboard IRS Creeping Death in a tour led by her Captain, Matthew Araya. "It's been some time since the Rokkenjiman Navy possessed true blue-water capabilities, the culture and tradition of the institution being largely squandered by the Federal Republic. Alongside our friends in Dartfordia we've shown the world that we're back, we're prepared to defend the Empress and the Empire, and that we stand with our friends and allies in the face of brazen, determined hostility," the Captain said in response to a question from a reporter. "Wouldn't the deployment of a ship of war, even to an allied nation, be construed as a hostile move given the current situation?" came the next question. "In my opinion Creeping Death is not so much a ship of war as she is a ship of peace. There's less responsible nations in our world which would, with little hesitation, launch weapons which would ensure the deaths of millions followed shortly thereafter. Each day I work with Imperial High Command to ensure our missiles never leave the Creeping Death but, at the same time, it is very much our intention to make sure that our adversaries know that should they use weapons of mass destruction against the First Empire or her allies she has the capability to respond in kind, at any time and against any target of her choosing, with little to no warning. That's a deterrent that I hope will never be tested." After spending two days in Southsea Harbour Hunting Girl and Creeping Death departed Dartfordian waters for Communist Quinntopia for the second port visit on their agenda. "It's been a fine two days, our sailors enjoyed the opportunity to meet and greet their Dartfordian allies, and now we make our way to Quinntopian waters," the Captain said. He left behind a case of Rokkenjiman mead along with a letter from the Empress thanking Dartfordia for its hospitality. |
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| Beatrice | 6th December 2013 - 07:28 AM Post #6 | |
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Today's News Briefs IRS Venerable returns to service:  Venerable proudly returns to the seas, relieving Vanguard as commanding vessel of Task Force Kraken in the Great Northern Sea. IRS Venerable, once held in a state of disrepair by the Grand Republican Army, has been restored and modernized according to Imperial High Command. The first of the three Celestial class battleships of the Imperial Navy to undergo modernization Venerable, for the time being, has some additional capabilities which her sisters lack. The modernization process leaves her armed as followed: 12 × 16-inch Mark 7 guns 12 × 5-inch Mark 16 guns 32 × BGM-109 Tomahawk 16 × RGM-84 Harpoon 4 × 20 mm (.78 inch). Phalanx CIWS Venerable is also the first of the Celestial class to be equipped with updated ICON systems which, according to Imperial High Command, will increase the accuracy and ability of the battleship. Integrated Communications/Operations Network (ICON): ICON Fire Control System Mark II ICON Radar Surveillance Service version 2.0 ICON Communications and Logistics Suite 1.0 Intercon Sonar Suite Under the command of Captain Fergus Byron Venerable is set to relieve Vanguard as the commanding vessel of Task Force Kraken, the Imperial Task Force working in concert with a similar Quinntopian fleet to ensure stability in the Great Northern Sea. Vanguard is expected to undergo modernization in Kazarovia as opposed to the Rokkenjiman modernization Venerable received. "We've relayed our specifications to our Kazarovian allies and expect the best from their shipyards," Admiral Cole stated. "The reason we decided to modernize Venerable here at home was due to a call from the Empress who wished to ensure our shipyards are comparable to other global powers, and I'd say we've accomplished that task." Neo Rokkenjima considers purchasing more Aurora Class Destroyers, Explores new class of Frigates: Imperial High Command has noted its interest in ordering five further Aurora Class Destroyers from Kazarovia. The Empress approved the funds for the vessels earlier this morning, noting the need for the Imperial Navy to "continue in its push for modernization." These new destroyers are expected to replace the four Porcelina Class Destroyers which were designed in the late 1960s. "The Aurora Class has proven to be a successful addition to the Imperial Navy, as such, the Empress has seen it as the logical replacement for the remaining Porcelina Class Destroyers left in the fleet. As they become available it's expected that they'll assume the names of the vessels they replace," Admiral Cole stated. Continuing the modernization drive of the Imperial Navy IHC also announced the replacement for the Chimera Class Frigates. The eight vessels will be replaced by ten Resolute Class Frigates which are expected to replace the current Chimera Class over the course of fifteen years. IHC has left open the possibility of contracting the work for some of the vessels to CSTO allies to expedite their entry into the Imperial fleet. The first vessel of her class, IRS Concorde-R is currently undergoing sea trials. The R in her name will be removed upon the decommissioning of the Chimera Class Concorde. As the Chimera class is decommissioned the Empress has left a door open for the Republic of Elipidia to purchase the vessels, should they desire to purchase them.  IRS Concorde-R undergoing sea trials in the Rokkenjima Sea Along with the recently announced Sturgeon Class Assault Vessels IHC is confident that the Imperial Navy has returned to a position of prominence amongst global naval powers. Edited by Beatrice, 6th December 2013 - 07:40 PM.
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| Beatrice | 10th December 2013 - 04:36 AM Post #7 | |
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Independent Papers Criticize Warsaw Alliance Independent papers in Neo Rokkenjima, unimpressed by Warsaw conduct at the Ecclesiarreich Conference, have painted an ugly picture of the alliance in recent days. According to the Imperial the Warsaw Alliance "held our Empress and international diplomats hostage in a show of unprecedented barbarity," and called on the Empress to "leave the talks on principle." The Pyrettania Times went further, calling the weapons programs, the blockade of the Great Northern Sea and the debacle at the Conference "acts of war against the civilized world." "Standing between international peace, security and order and a future of international chaos, war and persecution the First Empire, not by her will but by necessity, has been forced to use her influence and assets to reign in this beast, lest it rain death upon those nations which do not yield to its desires. Even after being held at gunpoint by a so-called 'diplomatic' delegation our Empress has remained, trying, perhaps in vain, to salvage the Conference so derailed by the Warsaw Alliance that it was forced into recess. She may find that, like negotiating with the Republicans, one cannot negotiate with terrorists, especially those capable of terror on the global stage," the Times continued. Included with the articles were political cartoons depicting the Chairman:   Public opinion polls show that a majority of Rokkenjimans view the Warsaw Alliance as a threat to Rokkenjiman national security and, moreso, a threat to international peace and stability. "The public is clearly concerned about the Warsaw Alliance, however, I must urge our papers to resist the urge to cause a panic," Prime Minister Ronove said in a statement to the RBC. "Neo Rokkenjima has no interests in a war with the Warsaw Alliance and believes fully that diplomacy can diffuse the situation; we do not need the people put on a footing for war when there is no need for such a war to take place." When asked if a cold war had erupted between the CSTO and Warsaw Alliance the Prime Minister stated, "Clearly there are issues between the CSTO and the Warsaw Alliance which exist. Our respective spheres hold different values and goals, thus, it is natural for friction to exist. Do we feel that war is inevitable? No, but should the safety and security of Neo Rokkenjima, her allies or the neutral powers of the world come under threat by the Warsaw Alliance we will act with an appropriate response." Port Visit: Sontaporta hosts the Imperial Navy Hunting Girl and Creeping Death were joined by another Imperial Vessel for their visit to the Quinntopian city of Sontaporta as the Imperial Navy continues a series of port visits. The Resolute class frigate Concorde-R joined the submarines for the port visit, showcasing the Imperial Navy's newest frigate as a part of her sea trials. "We've been looking forward to our visit in Sontaporta since departing Dartfordian waters, and it looks to be a fine opportunity to get to know not only our counterparts, but also the people of Quinntopia," Captain Matthew Araya said of the visit. "Introducing Concorde-R also presents an opportunity for the Quinntopians to catch a glimpse of present Imperial naval planning, and I hope that helps us in the future to coordinate together as our navies continue to build an increasing inter-operational capacity." The three vessels are expected to arrive in Sontaporta at around 10 AM Quinntopian time tomorrow.  Concorde-R shortly before departing Rokkenjiman waters Admiral Alex Rowe Demotes Himself  Captain Alex Rowe of IRS Venerable Former Admiral Alex Rowe has, with the graces of the Empress, resigned his position as Admiral to take command of IRS Venerable, according to Imperial High Command. The youngest Admiral to serve in Rokkenjiman history sees his command of the Venerable come at a crucial time as it leads the Rokkenjiman effort in the Great Northern Sea to counter Warsaw belligerence. "While Alex has proven to be an excellent Admiral his place is on the bridge of a battleship, and his wisdom may yet better serve us there," the Empress said of his self-demotion. Upon taking command of the Venerable he announced that Sophia Forrester would be his First Officer. Sophia previously served as his First Officer when he commanded the battleship Venturer, which was damaged beyond repair during the Second Patriotic War in a battle against the Federal Republic. Taking on water and having lost much of her ability to steer Alex beached the vessel near the Imperial-held city Aphilia, after which he continued to utilize her guns to help defend the city from a Republican offensive. The scheme worked and Alex was promoted as Admiral shortly thereafter. "Venerable has just become the most potent, competent and perhaps lethal battleship in the Imperial arsenal," Admiral Cole was quoted as saying upon hearing of the news. "His presence in the Great Northern Sea is definitely a game changer." Edited by Beatrice, 10th December 2013 - 07:11 AM.
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| Beatrice | 11th December 2013 - 10:46 PM Post #8 | |
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Adam Quincy Dead: The People Rejoice Adam Quincy, son of the leader of the Grand Republican Army, was killed during the liberation of Port Karth earlier today. Rokkenjimans from across the Empire have praised the killing of the General's son, who was personally tasked with securing and defending Port Karth from Imperial forces. "Adam was a high-ranking official in the GRA, his leadership skills are well known even by IHC. His death deals quite a blow to the morale and capabilities of our adversaries," Admiral Cole stated upon the news. After news of Adam's death spread Imperial forces reported a lower morale from their opponents, noting some simply surrendered upon the approach of Imperial forces. In other news, the Imperial Armed Forces reported enjoying 98% control of the city of Port Karth, having driven much of the Grand Republican Army from the borders of the city. Assistance from CSTO allies and allied independents assisted the Imperial Armed Forces who held a minimal presence in the eastern provinces. "It was never our designs to fight further war in our own lands, that reality being thrust upon us by the rearmament of a defeated GRA. May this be the last time violence finds a home in Neo Rokkenjima," Prime Minister Ronove said in a press conference. Empress Delivers Speech in Ecclesiarreich Empress Beatrice has delivered a speech concerning the Ecclesiarreich Conference and the present state of relations between the international community and the Warsaw Alliance. Calling for a "Grand Reset" of relations, the establishment of a Covenant of Nations, a global draw-down of weapons of mass destruction and the establishment of global bodies designed to prevent conflict, increase standards of living and create and enforce global laws and norms the Empress has placed the ball in Chairman Stalin's court. The Empress went so far as to offer humanitarian aid to Warsaw Alliance member states should persecution cease against minorities, a position which would have been unthinkable days ago. Public reaction to the speech has been overly supportive. "I imagine that other nations saw in her a weak, naive girl, what could she know about geopolitics or weapons programs? What they've seen instead is a strong, confident woman who stands by her convictions, taking each lie told about her, her nation and its allies and allowing the truth to advocate her positions. There's not a war hawk out there who can defeat such grace and wisdom, or that can stop the march of our Empress in her desire for a better tomorrow. After all she's been through, personally and for our nation, I couldn't be more proud of the strength Empress Beatrice continues to surprise the world with. "With this speech the Empress has been elevated to a place in history equal to that of Queen Adriana. We've returned to the days where our nation can look to our Empress for inspiration, even in the bleakest of times; her determination strengthens and inspires her people. I pray she enjoys a long reign," Ms. Homme, a professor of history at the Rokkenjiman Imperial University shared with us. It is unknown how Chairman Stalin will respond to the speech, however, the Empress has presented quite a roadblock to painting Neo Rokkenjima and her allies in the light he has been. Edited by Beatrice, 11th December 2013 - 10:48 PM.
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| Beatrice | 12th December 2013 - 01:38 AM Post #9 | |
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Empress denies relationship between herself and Marylin Manson  Marilyn Manson After tabloids released pictures of herself and Marilyn Manson the Empress has denied any romantic relations exist between herself and the shock rocker. "Marilyn Manson is a close friend and nothing more. I greatly admire him for his music and stances on several issues, however, reports of a romantic relationship between us are false," she said in a statement to the RBC. The pictures of the Empress and Marilyn Manson were taken at a party hosted by Manson at his private estate in Rokkenjima. The shock rocker has yet to return a request from the RBC for a statement concerning the allegations. |
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| Beatrice | 15th December 2013 - 04:10 AM Post #10 | |
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Imperial Air Force Establishes Air Supremacy over Eastern Provinces  Two RK-80 Vindicators over the skies of Arovium The Imperial Air Force announced complete supremacy over the skies of the Eastern Provinces according to Imperial High Command. RK-80 Vindicators were seen engaging RK-67s over the skies of Arovium with high efficiency, denying the Grand Republican Army use of their older aircraft in their war against the people of Rokkenjima. RKB-80 Venemous bombers were employed to strike Republican-held targets surrounding Port Karth, with local sources reporting a Republican collapse in the area as 'imminent'.  A Venemous bomber in the area of Port Karth preparing for a strike Scramjet Projectiles Employed in Operation: Trident  A scramjet projectile of the type employed by the Imperial Navy The Imperial Navy noted the utilization of scramjet projectiles against Republican installations according to Imperial High Command. Fired from the Celestial's standard 16 inch guns the projectiles possess a range of around 460 miles and expand the modernized Celestial's potency further. With the automation and coordination provided by ICON-assisted aiming systems accuracy has also seen a marked increase and, according to some naval sources, the combination has extended the useful life of the Celestial class for some decades to come. The Empress recently ordered the construction of three further Celestial class battleships in their modernized configuration, marking an investment by Rokkenjima to a platform which before was viewed as obsolete by some in Imperial High Command. |
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| Beatrice | 19th December 2013 - 09:20 AM Post #11 | |
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The Empress Responds; RK-80s Perform Maneuvers in Great Northern Sea Following statements from Darandum which have seen anger from citizens in Elpidia and Neo Rokkenjima the Empress released a response in which she warned Councilman Tolin Korst to "avoid unraveling the accomplished successes of Ambassador Chriska." Citing Korst's proposals as "naive at best and unnecessarily dangerous at worst" the Empress made no attempts at sugar coating her words. This swift change in tone has been noted by Imperial lawmakers as, just days before, the Empress had bestowed the Order of the Chrysanthemum upon Darandum Ambassador Taylor Chriska. The Empress further claimed that Councilman Korst didn't grasp the principles behind the Covenant of Nations and stressed consensus-based decisions over unilateral moves in confronting global challenges. She also served reminder to the Councilman concerning Imperial Navy deployments around the world, including "a sizeable Task Force in the Great Northern Sea which is currently in liaison with the Government of Darandum. Our military is capable of responding to any given change of circumstances and will act should the situation warrant it." "Any move or continued insistence to deploy military assets within Neo Rokkenjima, CSTO members or her independent allies will result in our rescinding the Liaison between the Imperial Navy and the government of Darandum and we'll no longer see the need for prior authorization from Darandum before conducting naval operations in the area. I encourage your military to join the framework already in place to combat Incen Werize and not thrust decisions and suspicions upon them, otherwise you will encounter resistance." While some lawmakers have accused the Empress of assuming a hostile tone with Darandum Prime Minister Ronove was quick to remind them that it was "the Councilman who first spoke with hostile language, the Empress was merely responding in kind. There's nothing wrong with military cooperation, but speaking from a position of authority and threatening the use of force against those that do not accept your unilateral observation on your sovereign territory, well, these aren't actions I've come to expect from Darandum."  Imperial Fighters Performing Maneuvers in the Great Northern Sea (Picture links to video!) About a half hour after the Empress issued her rebuttal RK-80Ns (a naval variant of the RK-80) were reportedly conducting flight operations in the Great Northern Sea, with the Task Force holding position within ten nautical miles of Darandum's territorial waters. Admiral Henry Cole stated that the fighters and Task Force were performing "routine maneuvers and operations" which shared no connection with the exchange of statements between the Empress and Councilman Korst. Edited by Beatrice, 19th December 2013 - 09:24 AM.
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| Beatrice | 20th December 2013 - 07:36 PM Post #12 | |
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Catholic Church Condemns Rokkenjiman Tour The Catholic Church earlier today issued a condemnation after the kick-off to Ghost's tour throughout Neo Rokkenjima. "'Ghost' presents a mockery of the Church, and as with all metal music is an instrument of the devil," the Church said in a release to the media.  Ghost before taking the stage in Pyrettania A response from the Imperial Government is not expected as relations between Rokkenjima and the Catholic Church have been non-existent for decades. Catholics make up a minority in Neo Rokkenjima, with other denominations of Christianity making a greater share of the population. While 15% of Rokkenjimans identify as Christian only 4% do so as Catholic, according to data from early 2013. The Church of Rosarianity released a statement which said: "A person's choice in music does not condemn them to Grievn, just as much as it has no bearing on their entrance into Hahla. Adora's spark of inspiration manifests in a multitude of ways, and it is not the position of the Church of Rosarianity to condemn what is her gift." Charles Ofdensen, Vicegerent of the First Empire simply noted that, "the Empress quite enjoyed the show." IRS Valiant Sinks Pirate Vessel  A picture of the pirate vessel provided by Imperial High Command On the second day of the resumption of Imperial Naval operations against piracy in the Sea of Kyne a confirmed sinking of a pirate vessel has been reported. IRS Valiant fired several warning shots after the vessel, which refused to identify itself and had been involved in an attack against an Imperial merchant ship earlier in the day, made several provocative moves before ultimately sinking the vessel 45 nautical miles from the coast of Novincia. "We do not make it a practice to shoot vessels based on the mere suspicion that they may be pirates, however, this vessel made an attempt to attack an Imperial Merchant Vessel and then refused to answer Valiant. When attempts were made to contact the vessel we could observe men with small arms and what appeared to be RPG-type weapons which, while posing little threat to Imperial vessels, was determined to be provocation by Captain Lucy Madrid. After firing three warning shots once the vessel appeared to be moving closer to the Valiant the Captain ordered that the vessel be fired upon and, after an explosion, the vessel sank," Admiral Cole informed RBC. "Survivors were taken aboard Valiant and will be taken to Neo Rokkenjima to face charges for their attack upon our vessel." Edited by Beatrice, 20th December 2013 - 07:37 PM.
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| Beatrice | 22nd December 2013 - 12:14 PM Post #13 | |
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Mark II Warhead Deorbits in central Cotf Aranye A Mark II Thermobaric Warhead de-orbited earlier today in an unclaimed portion of central Cotf Aranye according to Imperial High Command. The warhead de-orbited and exploded at 12:45 AST in what has been called a "strike against a confirmed Incen Werize operations centre." The strike was conducted in an unclaimed territory refered to by Imperial High Command as Asirna and, upon confirmation via drone, the strike was declared a success by Imperial High Command. Before the strike was conducted a message was broadcast to all nations via an encrypted channel which stated the following: "Imperial High Command hereby serves notice that a strike is imminent against an Incen Werize operations centre in Asirna. This strike poses no threat to any nation, and this notice serves to prevent any misunderstandings due to the delicate situation in Cotf Aranye. All aircraft should avoid the airspace above Asirna until the strike has been conducted. That is all."  The location of the strike, as indicated by the red dot.  The explosion as photographed by a Rokkenjiman drone operating in the area. "The strike against Incen Werize in Asirna marks a significant victory for all nations impacted by the terrorist actions of this vile organization. The First Empire looks forward to continued military co-ordination to wipe Incen Werize from the world and to reclaim peace and stability for our peoples. May we also move forward towards an era where weapons such as the Mark II are obsolete." Rokkenjima Considers Increased Presence in Cotf Aranye Imperial High Command has proposed a deployment of 35,000 Imperial soldiers on the continent of Cotf Arayne noting "increasing Rokkenjiman commitments in the region." Negotiations continue concerning a military base in Elpidia and it is expected that the First Empire will propose this base be capable of hosting naval, air and ground forces. "The First Empire has friends and allies in Cotf Aranye and the ability for a swift Rokkenjiman response to any situation which may threaten their interests is increasingly important. Having a well-rounded force in the seas, on the ground and in the skies above will enable us to ensure the safety of those friends and allies as well as the stability of the continent as a whole," IHC stated. Some have worried that the proposal marks Rokkenjiman interests in establishing itself as a power in Cotf Aranye. The Empress has utilized the revitalized Imperial Navy to assert Imperial power in several areas of the world and has often positioned the First Empire as a leading power in forging international norms and laws. Many have also noted that two Imperial Task Forces are presently operating in the Cotf Aranye region; one in the Great Northern Sea as an initial response to the Warsaw blockade and another in the Sea of Kyne which is lending support to Bechstein while engaging in anti-piracy operations. Edited by Beatrice, 22nd December 2013 - 12:31 PM.
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| Beatrice | 23rd December 2013 - 09:04 PM Post #14 | |
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YourVoice.rk Launches YourVoice.rk is an initiative which intends to shape the way voting occurs within the First Empire. The Empress signed an Act which aims to put an Internet-connected PC into the hands of every Rokkenjiman Citizen by the end of 2020 for the purposes of conducting national referendums via the system. YourVoice.rk also aims to improve voter turnout for elections at all levels by enabling citizens to vote from the comfort of their own home. A device is built into the system to ensure the citizen is eligible to vote under Imperial law. To vote citizens merely log onto the official website, verify their voting status, and cast their vote in the election. Whether it be a referendum, a general election or an Act of Parliament which is deemed important enough to warrant the consideration of the entire nation the process largely remains the same. Until the system is deployed across Rokkenjiman homes YV consoles will be available in polling places across the Empire. These consoles will not replace the current election machines which provide a hard, paper copy of the tallied votes. Debt Cancellation The Empress has ordered the cancellation of debts incurred by Rokkenjimans under the Federal Republic, calling them "unjust and illegal abuses of the people of Rokkenjima." These debts include a variety of loans and medical debts which were due to insurance companies, as well as a variety of bonds issued by the Federal Republic which have been declared void. This has relieved pressure upon Imperial families and is expected to further improve the Rokkenjiman economy which has seen remarkable growth since the fall of the First Empire. In other news a new poll has been released, showing approval for the Empress and her officials remains high. The Empress enjoys an approval rating of 89%, the Vicegerent 74%, and Prime Minister Ronove has seen his approval rating hold steady at 70%, according to RBC Polls and Analysis. In a separate poll the Rokkenjiman Parliament has an approval rating of 67%. This lower rating seems to indicate less trust in elected officials after decades of Republican abuses against Rokkenjima. Edited by Beatrice, 23rd December 2013 - 09:05 PM.
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| Beatrice | 1st January 2014 - 11:46 PM Post #15 | |
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Minimum Wage Increased, Business Law Reforms By Imperial Decree the Empress has raised the Rokkenjiman minimum wage to £¥14.00, up from the £¥4.15 wage under Republican law. "As the Rokkenjiman economy grows it is crucial to ensure that the blessings and rewards of that growth are enjoyed by the Rokkenjiman people. We must hold businesses and corporations which operate in Rokkenjima to providing a living wage for their workers. The era of a Rokkenjima which is ruled for the benefit of corporations ended the day I reclaimed the Throne, and those days shall not be returning," the Empress stated. The Empress also did away with laws which recognized corporations as people and banned lobbying in the Imperial Parliament. "In many cases the laws passed by the Republican congress were written by the corporations themselves, this too has come to an end due to todays Decree. Corporations are not living, breathing people and to treat them as such is a travesty for the People," she continued. While the changes mean greater expenses for Rokkenjiman corporations a flight of business from Rokkenjima is not expected. Rokkenjiman businesses tend to be highly loyal and dedicated to Rokkenjima, believing that the advancement of Rokkenjiman society as a whole advances their business interests. The Empress hopes that the strength of the Rokkenjiman education system, as well as the modernization of key infrastructure will lead to foreign corporations to settling in Rokkenjima despite the increased cost of business. Education Reform Announced Beginning this year Rokkenjiman students will be able to attend post-secondary education free of charge. This extends to specialized institutions as well as traditional colleges and universities. "The reform of our education system from a for-profit business to an institution which enriches the Rokkenjiman nation for generations to come has begun," the Empress said upon issuing the Decree. "By providing our young with the knowledge and tools they will need to succeed in increasingly competitive fields we're ensuring a stronger Rokkenjima, one which will be a leader and not a follower in high-tech, high skilled fields. We'll ensure that innovation gives to us the fruit of prosperity." Rokkenjiman Health Service Founded The Empress issued a Decree calling for the establishment of the Rokkenjiman Health Service, a nation-wide health insurance which is to be funded via a mixture of taxes, tariffs and transit fees through the Strait of Austrana. "By eliminating for-profit insurance every Rokkenjiman will enjoy a quality of life which is unparralleled. Throughout my life and reign I have learned that the most important duty of an Empress is to provide for her People, to ensure that their quality of life is the highest it can be." National Democratic Party Slams Decrees The National Democratic Party, a split from the Republican Party which received permission from the Empress to be recognized as a party, slammed the decrees, calling them "a descent into the failed experiments of socialism." Despite their opposition to the Decrees they failed to muster the votes required to challenge the Decrees. For the fifth time since Parliament was convened they proposed a bill to restore a Republican form of government along with a measure to transform the monarchy into a ceremonial institution. The party, which holds thirty two seats in the House of Commons, is based in the province of Arovium and holds little support outside of the Province. "The Empress is, by all means, declaring war on business and investment in Rokkenjima," declared Randy Paulson, leader of the National Democratic Party. "Mark my words, as the days go on this nation will look different from the nation our fathers and forefathers knew." We personally couldn't be more pleased by Randy's assessment. |
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| Beatrice | 3rd January 2014 - 06:03 PM Post #16 | |
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Lord High Steward notes Rokkenjima Concern over Elpidian Crisis  Lord High Steward Ofdensen Speaks concerning the situation in Elpidia Lord High Steward Ofdensen has addressed Imperial concerns over recent developments in Elpidia in a televised statement. The First Empire is shocked by revelations of potential abuses and atrocities in the Quarantine Zone, as well as the detainment of 5,000 people without warrant. The release of the G-R3 virus was itself a tragedy and I fear the actions undertaken during the quarantine period have only worsened conditions. After receiving several calls from Rokkenjimans concerned about the developments in Elpidia I convened a special session of the Imperial Council on behalf of the Empress, who is currently in attendance at the signing ceremony of the Covenant of Nations. I would like to ensure the people of Rokkenjima that we are looking into the situation and will act appropriately as more information becomes available. I call upon President Elizabeth Quilo to answer the calls of the People in convening a Constitutional Convention and take all measures possible to make sure future abuses are not possible. Elpidians have clearly relayed their desires for change and justice, as these calls grow louder they cannot be ignored and must be heeded to ensure domestic stability in Elpidia. Sadly I must also warn the government of President Quilo from considering the arrest or prosecution of protesters and the Constitution Party, including its leader, James Moorstone. It shocks me to have to issue such a warning, however, my confidence has been shaken in the present judicial and executive institutions of Elpidia. While Rokkenjima shall always be thankful for Elpidian assistance rendered in the Second Patriotic War we cannot ignore the present realities, nor turn a blind eye to what appears to be a situation of grave concern. At the same time I urge James Moorstone to ensure that protests remain peaceful and civil. Until more information is available the First Empire hereby suspends contracts for the construction of the Resolute and Steadfast class vessels and will also be suspending the transfer of decommissioned Rokkenjiman vessels to the Elpidian Navy. These contracts will be reconsidered, as well as the transfer of vessels, upon resolution of the present crisis. Rokkenjima stands committed to ensuring the democratic voice of the Elpidian people is not silenced and will not support any actions aimed at silencing their voice. I will be releasing a further statement tomorrow and invite James Moorstone, and a representative of the Elpidian government, to contact me at their earliest convenience. Thank you for your time. Naval Expansion Continues The expansion of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy continues as Rokkenjima concludes construction of its Resolute Class Frigates. A further ten Resolute frigates are being constructed in Elpidia along with twelve Steadfast Class Cruisers. According to Imperial High Command the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy is set to acquire the following vessels in the coming years: Ten further Resolute Class Frigates Twelve further Steadfast Class Cruisers Five further Ruby Class Submarines Three Minstrel Class amphibious assault ships IRS Viscount is presently under construction and, upon completion, will end Rokkenjiman construction of the modernized Celestial class battleships. IRS Excalibur will be joined by her sister, IRS Expedition within the next year and a half. The Inferno Class carriers are being produced in Rokkenjima under licence from Quinntopia. |
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| Beatrice | 9th January 2014 - 01:44 AM Post #17 | |
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Empress Beatrice to Wed The Lord High Steward has announced the engagement of the Empress to Prince Alexander of Dartfordia. Upon news of the engagement there was an outpouring of celebration across the Empire, with many excited for the prospect of an Imperial wedding. "I'm so glad to see that the Empress has found happiness after everything she's faced," a man in Pyrettania said. "The Imperial Family is a part of the soul of Rokkenjima, so we welcome Prince Alexander!" The engagement was announced in a joint statement from Neo Rokkenjima and Dartfordia:
A more in-depth report will be available in a future publication. Congratulations to the couple! Empress Releases Statement concerning Elpidia Earlier today the Empress released a statement concerning the ouster of embattled Elpidian President Elizabeth Quilo: The First Empire is pleased to see that the will of the People is proving triumphant in Elpidia. I congratulate President Truden on his election as the next President of Elpidia and look forward to working with him, and the people of Elpidia, as partners in serenity and stability. The victims of the Quarantine Period tragedy will never be forgotten and, just as Elpidia mourns, so too does Rokkenjima. As a measure of respect for the blessed dead I have authorized the funds for the construction of a statue near the Elpidian Embassy to honour those lost. The People have won, your work in the protests has succeeded, now is the time to bring the protests to an end and begin the road to progress and healing. Rokkenjima will continue to stand by Elpidia as supportive friends and allies, never imposing our understanding or will upon her. The road may be long and frustrating at times, however, a new Constitution and other reforms will be well worth this investment. Should any assistance be required of us, you need only ask. The Venturer gets a Captain  Captain Savannah Penrose Savannah Penrose, a native of Pyrettania, has been given command of the Celestial class battleship Venturer in a ceremony held at Port Karth earlier today. Venturer is among the newest of the Celestials afloat, built in the Empress' efforts to expand and modernize the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy. Captain Savannah was sponsored through the Imperial Naval Academy by former Admiral Alex Rowe who, of his own volition, was 'demoted' to serve as Captain of IRS Venerable, the first of the modernized Celestials to take to the seas. "Captain Penrose exemplifies the best of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy and commands a knowledge of naval combat that is beyond her years," High Admiral Cole stated. "She'll serve the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy well as we transition from a period of uncertainty and conflict, able to answer any situations which may threaten the Grand Reset." Venturer will be joined by the Inferno class carrier Excalibur to head up Rokkenjima's forward deployed battle group to Elpidia, while the Task Force currently deployed to the nation will return to Rokkenjima for shore leave and resupply before beginning duty as Task Force Covenant Prime, the First Empire's contribution to the common military forces of the Covenant of Nations. |
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| Beatrice | 15th January 2014 - 12:29 AM Post #18 | |
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Elpidian Forward Deployment Arrives, Contracts Restored, Vessels to be Delivered The Imperial Rokkenjiman Task Force Steady Hand arrived in Elpidian waters earlier today while construction of the Ma'liac Joint Military Base is set to begin within the week. Until the base is constructed it is expected that the Task Force will utilize existing Elpidian facilities for resupply purposes. The Task Force, under the command of Captain Savannah Penrose, will allow Rokkenjima to respond swiftly to any crisis in the Great Northern Sea and Cotf Arayne. A future deployment of 35,000 Imperial soldiers along with a squadron of RK-80 'Vindicators', Rokkenjima's fifth-generation stealth fighter, marks a significant Rokkenjiman commitment to the region. Task Force Steady Hand is known to consist of the following vessels: The Celestial Class Battleship Venturer The Inferno Class Aircraft Carrier Excalibur The Aurora Class Destroyers Sovereign, Pārśa and Gungnir The Resolute Class Frigates Monitor, Horizon, and Intrepid The Steadfast Class Cruisers Furious and Dispatch The Ruby Class Submarines Absolution, Cydonia and Whistler The Cargo Class Supply Ship Kavania In a related military development Rokkenjiman contracts for the construction of ten further Resolute Class Frigates, along with twelve Steadfast Class Cruisers, were restored following the resolution of the troubles surrounding former President Elizabeth Quilo. Transport of several decommissioned Rokkenjiman vessels were also re-initiated, with those vessels expected to arrive in Elpidia within the week. "We're pleased that the crisis in Elpidia has been resolved and that the voice of the Elpidians has been heeded to. We treasure our friendship with Elpidia, this forward deployment is a mark of that friendship and also a dedication from Rokkenjima to defend our mutual interests on the continent," Admiral Cole stated. Empress Pledges Billions in Economic Aid The Empress has authorized at least £¥55b in military and financial assistance to be set aside in the budget for 2014, according to Pyrena Castle. A majority of Rokkenjiman military assistance is expected to be slated for CSTO members, although such assistance to non-CSTO members is also expected over the year. Beyond the economic assistance set aside already the Empress has requested an additional £¥20b to be reserved to relieve the economic situation in the Kingdom of Dartfordia, a key Rokkenjiman ally. The moves have been seen by some as an effort by the Empress to compliment Rokkenjiman foreign interests by increasing the soft-power projection capabilities of Rokkenjima. Beatrice Dolls a Hit   Dolls of the Empress are now on sale throughout the World The sale of dolls of the Empress have proven to be wildly popular, with many stores running out of the dolls within hours of the start of sales. Authorized by the Empress herself all proceeds from these sales are being deposited in a fund meant to assist needy families across the world. "The funds from the sale of these dolls will go to assist families with providing meals for their families and ensuring all children have an opportunity for a proper education. Poverty is still a very real crisis around the world, and in this small way I hope to be a part of the solution," the Empress said when sales started. "Production and sales of these dolls will continue for one year, after which we will gauge their success in meeting my goals. The First Empire is also engaging in more conventional programmes for poverty reduction and seeks coordination with other economically gifted partners in ending a plague which is purely of human design. Debt reduction and cancellation efforts will be a Rokkenjiman priority at the Covenant of Nations, and I invite other nations to follow Rokkenjima on this path." National Democratic Party: Beware of 'Beatocare' The Rokkenjiman Health Service, dubbed 'Beatocare' by the National Democratic Party, has seen approval by Parliament in a move which was both hailed and slammed across Rokkenjima. While polls show that a majority of Rokkenjimans support the establishment of the RHS a minority believe it will lead to an increase in government management of their lives while leading to a poorer quality of medical care. "Beatocare will rob the people of their right to choose their medical insurance, or the right to not have insurance at all. Look, we don't need Nanny Beatrice to tell us when to go to the doctor, what we do need is to support free-market solutions which will deliver the best care for the best prices," Randy Paulson stated. "Proving that he is just as out of touch with the Rokkenjiman people as the majority of his Party, Paulson has once again began an early campaign on behalf of the Imperialist Party," the Prime Minister said when asked about Paulson's comments. "One would think in a post Federal Republic world, not to mention the revelations Indyleaks have shed light upon, that advocating on behalf of corporations in Rokkenjima was political suicide. While I appreciate Mr. Paulson's endless contributions to the Imperialist Party's elections, to be fair, I would suggest him to keep his mouth shut. Focus on re-connecting with the Rokkenjiman people, then you may win an election or two within the next fifty years." Edited by Beatrice, 15th January 2014 - 11:08 PM.
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| Beatrice | 16th January 2014 - 12:03 AM Post #19 | |
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Rumours confirmed: IRS Beatrice a component of the Elpidian Forward Deployment  IRS Beatrice IRS Beatrice, a Sturgeon Class assault vessel, is confirmed to have arrived in Elpidian waters alongside Task Force Steady Hand. Beatrice is expected to compliment Venturer's capabilities while providing the task force with advantages that the Celestial class battleships lack. With a focus on missile attack and defence, and with a compliment of torpedoes, the focus of Beatrice will be great firepower from a distance. The deployment of the Beatrice is likely due to the missile capabilities of Warsaw Alliance member states, a concern the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy sought to address despite disarmament arrangements secured prior to the signing of the Covenant of Nations. "It's our responsibility to consider all possible threats and address them with the best solutions possible. The Sturgeon Class fits the bill and will serve admirably in the Great Northern Sea and Illumic Channel," a source from IHC was quoted as saying. The following information concerning the Sturgeon Class was previously released:
Lord High Steward Reprimanded The Lord High Steward was reprimanded by the Empress for his handling of foreign matters, according to a release from Pyrena Castle. Citing his gaffes at the Peace Conference and his overreaction to the situation in Elpidia. "The manner in which the Lord High Steward responded to international currents and situations was harmful not only to Rokkenjiman interests, but to the interests of our allies as well. The Lord High Steward has been stripped of many of his foreign powers and responsibilities, which have been granted to Princess Evanthe, Vicegerent of Rokkenjima," the release stated. "The Lord High Steward will maintain mostly domestic responsibilities, serving the Empress in matters closer to home. His service to the Empress over the course of the Second Patriotic War and the foundation of the First Empire remain amongst his greatest accomplishments, and the Empress retains great trust in his abilities at home. The era of the Federal Republic is over, Rokkenjima stands free of that corrosive parasite and understands that every culture, and every crisis which faces them, are complex and different. Charles views the world through an obsolete lens, and his responsibilities have been adjusted to match the new reality." Princess Evanthe suggested by the Empress to be first Secretary General of the CoN The Empress has put forth the name of Princess Evanthe to be the first Secretary General of the Covenant of Nations. "I personally know no other person who has seen and experienced the horrors which the Covenant of Nations will strive to prevent. Her dedication to an international atmosphere of peace and prosperity for all nations is unrivalled, and I am fully confident that she would set an admirable precedent for the Secretary Generals which will follow her. I encourage my international partners to support Princess Evanthe as our first Secretary General," she said. Princess Evanthe is already a large player in Rokkenjiman foreign policy, claiming many foreign responsibilities from the former Vicegerent and current Lord High Steward, Charles Ofdensen. She is presently working on efforts to increase living standards across the world while encouraging global powers to seek diplomatic solutions over military options. She was also a key figure in addressing the diplomatic gaffe of the Lord High Steward, resetting the Rokkenjiman response to that situation. She has also pushed for broader cultural understandings between the nations of the world, a foundation she feels will prevent outbreaks of war and the political brinkmanship seen after the G-R3 attacks between the CSTO and Warsaw Alliance. Edited by Beatrice, 16th January 2014 - 12:19 AM.
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| Beatrice | 18th January 2014 - 12:41 AM Post #20 | |
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Concerns about Rokkenjiman Rocket Quelled  A SEP test launch in the late 1960s When a large rocket was observed by sources in Kavania it was originally assumed that the Imperial Strategic Defense Corps had developed a new missile. Others believed that it was the Soluna Exploration Platform (SEP), a lost program which has acheived almost mythical status in the Rokkenjiman scientific community. Initiated in the early 1960s and abandoned by the Federal Republic in the 1970s after successful test flights many wondered what had happened to the equipment after Republicans slashed the Space Budget to essentially nothing. "Yes, the rocket in Kavania is indeed the SEP," the Lord High Steward stated in a matter-of-fact manner. "The Imperial Space and Exploration Agency (ISEA) has reached a great understanding of the SEP and, with funding from the Empress, has been working to update the SEP to modern specifications. Should everything go according to plan we should see a test launch of the SEP within the year, and the first manned spaceflight some months after that."  A diagram of select SEP components The revelations come after rumours from Quinntopia that a space program had been undertaken in the nation, the first since 1976. "I know just as much as you do about our Quinntopian comrade's current abilities and program status, so I won't be adding to speculation there," Charles said in reply to a reporter. When asked if the discovery and confirmation of the SEP was related to space developments in Quinntopia; "It's a matter of coincidence, really. Even if it were a purposful response you'll remember that Rokkenjima and Quinntopia are allies, you could expect cooperation and collaboration in the place of a space race." Edited by Beatrice, 18th January 2014 - 12:43 AM.
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| Beatrice | 19th January 2014 - 07:42 AM Post #21 | |
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A Successful Launch  Soluna VII Launches The successful launch of the Soluna VII mission has been broadcast internationally as Rokkenjima aims for the stars. With the successful launch of the Soluna IV mission the ISEA speculates that the first Rokkenjiman attempt at a mission to the moon will occur within the next two to three months. "We're looking towards a lunar landing within the next two to three months. We've been preparing for this for decades, now with the funding it is within our means," the Princess and Vicegerent stated. Next month, a significant date in Rokkenjiman history, the first astronauts will blast off from Austrana to space in an attempt to reach the moon. "During the month and week that Islyna gave birth to Rokkenjima our brave women and men will be attempting the first lunar landing in history," the Empress stated. "Sylvia Smith, Alicia Burnsworth and Timothy Burgundy will be on the moon within this month, an accomplishment not only for Rokkenjima but for the entirety of humanity!" the Empress proudly proclaimed Already a rocket and lunar module have been prepared for the occasion, and are on Launch Pad Four in the Kavanian city of Jethrovan. "Next month we finish the work we left off in 1971," chief officer Warren Brut stated to the RBC. "The Empress knows these astronauts will represent the best of Rokkenjima and our world," the Princess Evanthe stated. With the successful test launch of Soluna IVV the ISEA is cleared for a manned launch to the moon next month, and the Empress is ecstatic. "Not a small step for the entirety of woman and mankind, but a huge step for woman and mankind," she said with a smile. Edited by Beatrice, 19th January 2014 - 07:42 AM.
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| Beatrice | 19th January 2014 - 08:06 AM Post #22 | |
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Rokkenimans Make a mark on the Moon  Soluna V Reaches for the Stars at 12:45 AST Astronauts Sylvia Smith and Alicia Burnsworth became the first inhabitants of our world to walk on the moon. "It's such a small step, but the significance is so much more," Sylvia stated over an international broadcast. The lunar module touched down at 12:29 AST, implanting a Rokkenjiman flag on the Lunar surface before giving a Rokkenjiman solute to the camera. "Our victory is the world's victory," she stated proudly, "woman everywhere can raise a cup of mead to our success!" The Empress held an international press conference on the occasion, in which she stated that "The world has reached the stars. As Sylvia explores our moon the entire world walks with her." Imperial media has played footage of her first steps on the lunar surface back-to-back, with little coverage in between. Her success, according to Pyrena Castle, is unprecedented in history. "The first person on the moon is a woman," Sylvia stated, "and the earthrise is beautiful. What has taken over fourty years is finally a reality."  The fist Earthrise Beatrice claimed cooperation and understanding as the successes of the mission, and personally awaited the crew in the Sea of Kyne pending their re-entrance in the earth's atmosphere. "We expect their return shortly," she stated, "and I pray for their safe return. Let us all hope for their safe return." Edited by Beatrice, 19th January 2014 - 10:54 AM.
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| Beatrice | 19th January 2014 - 10:01 AM Post #23 | |
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Rokkenima makes a commitment to Space With the first Rokkenjiman in Space, and on the Moon no less, national attention is set on Rokkenjimas commitment to space. "Rokkenjima has been preparing for this moment since the 1960s," Ofdensen said, "Skylab One is already in the works." Skylab 1 will be the first space station, capable of launching 3 Astronauts into sub-space orbit, and will last for 24 months. Skylab 1 will be operational within the next 32 months. "Skylab 1 will mark the first human commitment to space," mission commander Mark Alexander exclaimed. "Rokkenjima will return to the moon within the month, and commit to Skylab 1 in three months," he said excitedly. "It's an exciting time for the space program. We're all behind the lunar team in their successes." Skylab 1 will be the firs human settlement in space, and already SEP is looking to new and improved space launch vehicles. "Already Mark II is in the works, for Lunar exploration and beyond," Charles stated. "Our first steps on the moon are just the start. The best is, indeed, to come," the Lord High Steward stated. |
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| Beatrice | 19th January 2014 - 10:21 AM Post #24 | |
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Rokkeniman Journalist Mocks Quinntopians
In a smite of Quinntopian journalists Rokkenjiman media have been brutal in their critizism of Quinntopia despite government reports of friendship. When a Quinntopian, Anagorov, joked of a woman being the first on the moon Rokkenjiman media light up. "Sure a woman was first on the moon, but wasn't the man watching the children?" Livian Levonoh spake on late night television. "Chalk it up how you want, a woman walked on the moon before a man." Rokkenjima continues to celebrate the first woman on the moon despite the disparages in the media. "Unlike any other nation Rokkenjima deserves it most," a woman know as Ms. Bulmia claimed. "We were there first, we did it, f*ck yeah! Let em make silly third grade jokes!" The ISEA is sharing information with Quinntopia at this time and stated that a Quinntopian landing would be 'amazing'. "We wish the best for our partners in their lunar endeavors. This Rokkenjiman accomplishment belongs to the world, and as we set our sights to the lunar beyond we encourage our allies to join us on the moon. The sky, really, is no longer the limit." Edited by Beatrice, 19th January 2014 - 10:24 AM.
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| Beatrice | 20th January 2014 - 08:04 PM Post #25 | |
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Empress Recovering in Stable Condition The Empress is still in recovery following the attempt on her life by a Thematan assassin, according to the Lord High Steward. "The Empress is in stable condition and continues to show progress each day. She is expected to return to her duties within two weeks. The Vicegerent, Princess Evanthe, has been exercising the responsibilities of the Empress and shall continue to do so until her release from the hospital." Questions, naturally, soon turned to the Rokkenjiman response. "Look, until we know more about who the assassin was, why they attempted to kill the Empress, and who exactly they were working for our response shall be limited. We know the assassin came from Themata, we also know that the political situation is unstable there, thus we have no idea whether Liberty or the government sent the assassin. Trust me, once we find out those responsible we'll respond in force." ISEA: Partnerships between Rokkenjima, Elpidia and Quinntopia Elpidian astronaut Benjamin Jones shall be joining the Soluna VIII mission to the moon according to the ISEA. "Soluna VIII shall see further exploration of the lunar surface by Rokkenjima and Elpidia while also determining future landing sites for continued Rokkenjiman missions to the moon. This is an exciting time, not only for Rokkenjima, but for our CSTO partners as they, too, see great strides being made in space," ISEA spokesperson Vivian Race stated. A further launch, Soluna IX, will see a rendezvous between Soluna and Progress, the first such rendezvous in human history. Soluna IX is also launching as the first of three test launches for the Rokkenjiman mission for a manned fly-by of Ishtar. As further Soluna missions are planned some have questioned where the Rokkenjiman space program will go next, noting that launch vehicles such as Quinntopia's Progress could hold advantages over Rokkenjima's Soluna. "We would be irresponsible to turn from a platform which works, and works well, just for the sake of change. While a successor to Soluna is naturally being considered I can state with full confidence that the Soluna program has many years of life left in it. Where our capabilities lack we may coordinate with our partners, just as they may coordinate with us when their capabilities fail them. It's a win for all involved." RBC Journalists Relieved Journalists who made disparaging remarks about Quinntopia have been relieved, according to the RBC Board. "RBC holds a high standard of unbiased reporting and cannot endorse the utilization of our service as one's personal blog. We report the news from an unbiased perspective, infotainment has no place in our publications." |
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| Beatrice | 21st January 2014 - 01:29 AM Post #26 | |
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Soluna VIII Takes Off Soluna VIII Launches Successfully Elpidian astronaut Benjamin Jones joined Rokkenjiman astronauts Rebeca Kline and Christine Abrams on the second Rokkenjiman mission to the moon. "We're pleased to have Benjamin Jones along for the ride," Christine said with the excitement evident in her voice. "The mission before us is crucial to the future successes of the Rokkenjiman space program, we'll also be bringing back several moon rock samples which will be distributed to the nations of the world in a sign of good will and friendship." The mission is expected to last for a duration of ten days, after which the astronauts will return to Mundus. Aside from further exploration of the surface of Luna and the retrieval of samples from the surface scientific equipment to measure the lunar environment are to be set up. With Rokkenjiman plans to explore the feasibility of a base on the moon this mission will pave the way for further calculations and considerations towards those efforts. Other mission details, ISEA stated, will be revealed upon the return of Soluna VIII to Mundus. |
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| Beatrice | 25th January 2014 - 12:02 PM Post #27 | |
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Indyleaks Reveals Full Spectrum Program, Details Foreign Espionage efforts of Rokkenjima The Foreign Intelligence Directorate (FID) began a massive foreign intelligence program, named Full Spectrum, shortly after tensions rose between the Cross-Straits Treaty Organization and the Warsaw Alliance which received increased funds after Incen Werize re-armed the Grand Republican Army, according to documents released by Indyleaks. "The documents show that the Full Spectrum Program was authorized by the Empress herself in the opening days of the Warsaw Tensions. While the Empress made certain that Rokkenjiman citizens were not a target of the program she gave no protections to the communications and digital information traffic of foreign nationals," Amelia Ghrol, President of the Open Society Foundation said. "This comes as no surprise to the OSF as the Empress, while the most foreign-minded leader in Rokkenjiman history, is known to view foreign concerns with far less weight than those of Rokkenjima. CSTO allies seem, naturally, to be an exception to this while independent partners have received much less concern since the Second Patriotic War plunged Rokkenjima back into civil war." Indeed the Foreign Intelligence Directorate strengthened its ties with its respective authorities in Dartfordia, Quinntopia and Elpidia to 'build a network designed to develop an unparalleled intelligence collection and analysis ability.' Kazarovia and Chernobereg have not been mentioned in the documents released by Indyleaks and at this time it is unknown if the two nations have played any role in the Full Spectrum program. The most striking revelations, according to the Open Society Foundation, may be viewed below:
Due to the many initiatives the Empress has undertaken to rebuild Rokkenjima, to lift her People from decades of Republican abuse and restore Rokkenjima's position in the international community any domestic fallout against the Empress (and the Imperial Family) is expected to be minimal. Polls taken hours after the revelations have shown the approval rating for the Empress has fallen only slightly to 85%, down from 89% in the last edition of the poll. "Rokkenjimans seem to be satisfied that the Empress enacted strict controls to prevent domestic surveillance, and with the recent assassination attempt most are more concerned with her recovery and national security issues." Amelia added. A group of hundreds of Rokkenjimans did take to the streets in Pyrettania where they held a peaceful protest before the Central Administrative Complex. Edited by Beatrice, 25th January 2014 - 12:52 PM.
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| Beatrice | 29th January 2014 - 12:53 AM Post #28 | |
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Supporting Murderers: Totally Legitimate, according to Albanor Albanor has thrown its military support behind a regime which regularly kills its own people and is widely recognized as being responsible for the assassination attempt against the Empress. President Cervantes then went on to nonsensically rant about the Empress while implying that she was a tyrant. Many in Rokkenjima have grown mistrustful of Albanor and their intentions, and anti-Republican sentiments are again on the rise in Rokkenjima after several months of falling. Few republics fared well in the polls and only those with close relations with Rokkenjima were viewed positively. Blogs and mainstream commentary media have been scathing of Albanor for "supporting the bloody Thematan regime, perhaps selling them the shovels with which they dig their mass graves," read an article from Trenton Blacksmith. "They disparage the Empress as a tyrant, despite the overwhelming support she enjoys and ignoring the oppressive Republican regime she overthrew, while ignoring criticism for their own support of murderers and, well, actual tyrants." Mr. Blacksmith dug further into criticism of the Empress: "The thing is Rokkenjima has an Empress who's probably offered her people more democracy than half of these Republics, who's further to the Left except for the Quinntopians, and though she's suffered greatly has still found the strength to continuously give back to her People and the international community. She's set the tone for progressive initiatives across the world and has never been afraid to take a stand for those facing the jackboot of oppression. You can't tear down a woman with a heart as big and as strong as hers; she'll outlive the ramblings of criticism and continue to serve Rokkenjima, and the world around her." Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces Stand Ready  Rokkenjiman frigates monitor the southern extent of Rokkenjiman territorial waters The Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces stand ready to defend Rokkenjima and her allies from further aggression from the Thematan coalition, according to Imperial High Command. "Patrols of Rokkenjiman territorial waters, as well as Rokkenjiman airspace, are continuing on a routine basis. Task Force Steady Hand stands ready in Peniche Bay to ensure the safety of our Elpidian allies, and to serve as a deterrence to Great Jonothania from further provocative moves. In short, I'm confident in the ability of Rokkenjima to hold this coalition at bay, and to engage them should the Empress issue that order," High Admiral Cole stated.   Rokkenjiman Soldiers during the Victory Day Parade, celebrating Rokkenjima's victory in the Second Patriotic War, amongst those ready for deployment. When asked about any worries over Great Jonathania and Albanor's military forces the High Admiral smirked. "Task Force Steady Hand has amongst it some of the worlds most capable vessels which are staffed by the best naval service women and men in the world. Two upstart navies can't compare to the firepower of Steady Hand, let alone the full naval might of the First Empire." Empress Sues for Peace Despite Foreign Difficulties The Empress has continued to sue for a peaceful solution to the crisis despite international disrespect and disparagement, according to Pyrena Castle. Via private communications she sought out the assistance of Novincia, widely recognized and respected for its neutrality, to stand in mediation between the CSTO and Themata. While the Empress has stated her eagerness to attend such talks no official response has been received from Themata concerning the talks. The Empress has stated that this is "disappointing," and noted that while Rokkenjima waited for such a response that Themata was "issuing 24-hour ultimatums, none making sense as our forces aren't in waters under Thematan sovereignty." She stated that Rokkenjima would work with Novincia to see a peaceful resolution but would not accept the continuation of the current regime in Themata, nor a Themata which is a member of the Warsaw Alliance. "These conditions are non-starters for negotiations to proceed." Rokkenjiman policy is unlikely to budge on these issues, and thus the next move is very much in the hands of the Thematan coalition. |
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| Beatrice | 29th January 2014 - 09:13 AM Post #29 | |
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Seasons in Morivia: Excerpt Released Seasons in Morivia, set to begin publishing later this year, is a book written by the Empress recalling her childhood and rise to Chrysanthemum Throne. The RBC has been given an excerpt of the first chapter to share with our readers:
Edited by Beatrice, 29th January 2014 - 09:24 AM.
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| Beatrice | 1st February 2014 - 09:04 PM Post #30 | |
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Intervention in Themata: Empress Approves No-Fly Zone As the Coexistence Conference winds down in Novincia the Empress has approved Operation: Vigilant Watch which shall provide air support to the armies of General Limon as well as enforcing a no-fly zone over Themata. The intervention follows a shift in international attitude after shocking revelations of Thematan atrocities were showcased by the Empress in a speech before the Conference. Forces loyal to General Limon are presently engaged in combat and requested support from the international community, with the Empress extending cooperation to all powers allied with the Thematan people. The decision to authorize air intervention also came after the General's brother stormed out of the conference.  H-49 Sparrows preparing for operations in Themata The Empress has approved a force of 80 RK-80s to enforce the no-fly zone along with an initial deployment of 50 H-49 Sparrows to further enable close air support operations. "Operation: Vigilant Watch will assist the Thematan people in their quest for a free Themata, denying the skies to those who would use them to harm the people. Following the success of the Thematan people the First Empire has pledged a force of 20,000 service women and men to ensure a stable environment for the free Themata to develop. The international community, I'm pleased to say, is finally able to prevent yet further atrocities from taking place."  Two RK-80 Vindicators in the skies The Empress also pressed Chairman Stalin to not stand in the way of the Thematan revolution. "The voice of the People cannot be silenced, it has been for far too long as it is. If the USR wishes to be on the correct side of history they will allow the Thematan people to take rightful control of their country and will not stand as a roadblock in casting off a reprehensible regime." The Imperial Armed Forces in Cotf Arayne (IAFCA) stand ready to react to any Warsaw reaction to the revolution while IRS Regina, a Sturgeon-class Assault Vessel in the Sea of Kyne possessing the ability to strike targets in the USR should the USR initiate aggression against CSTO forces. The situation remains tense, however, the Empress remains confident that Chairman Stalin will "not aid the abuse of the Thematan people as international opinion makes such a standing unsustainable."  An RK-80 performing maneuvers The Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy is on stand-by in the Rokkenjima Sea pending a further Rokkenjiman commitment in Themata. The Quinntopia-class battleship Valkyrie, along with the Celestial-class battleship Venerable are in the region and are available for deployment to Thematan waters. While a naval component to Vigilant Watch has yet to be announced the Empress has left all options on the table. "We will spare no expenses as we stand by the Thematan people, fighting side-by-side for their freedom." |
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| Beatrice | 2nd February 2014 - 03:59 AM Post #31 | |
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Rokkenjiman Bands Announce 'Thrash the Regime' Concert Rokkenjiman bands have announced a concert to raise funds for the people of Themata entitled 'Thrash the Regime'. The concert, which will be held in Pyrettania, are expected to raise substantial funds which will be donated to charities established to provide relief to the Thematan people. It has been reported that Rage Against the Enemy has been invited to play at the show but confirmation of this performance have yet to be confirmed. The Empress noted her interests in attending the concert and has pledged to double the funds raised ducat for ducat, in addition to the aid already being considered by the Imperial Government. At press time the following bands are confirmed to be hosting the concert: Arch Enemy Gojira Hypocrisy Kreator Slayer Rokkenjimans Overwhelmingly Support Thematan Intervention In a poll conducted by the RBC the Empress has found broad support for the intervention in Themata. In the poll it was found that 79% of Rokkenjimans support intervention, 15% oppose the intervention, while 6% held no strong feelings either for or against the intervention. A group of hackers calling themselves Nemesis, taking their name from the Arch Enemy song, have declared a cyber war against the Thematan regime and the corporations believed to be pulling the strings, setting their energies against the websites of the regime and the corporations while also targeting e-mail, banking and electrical systems. We'll continue to keep you updated on Nemesis as that story develops. |
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| Beatrice | 5th February 2014 - 03:39 AM Post #32 | |
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Resolute and Steadfast Production Concludes in Elpidia  Spirit of Elpidia is joined by Arbiter hours after the christening ceremony. After a naval construction project spanning several years the last of the Resolute Class Frigates and Steadfast Class Cruisers have been completed. In a christening ceremony between Ambassador Jason Cole and Prime Minister Claude Cavour the final Resolute was christened Spirit of Elpidia, whilst the final Steadfast was christened the Pride of Lydcaer. Both men smiled as a champagne bottle was broken first on the bow of Spirit of Elpidia, and then upon Pride of Lydcaer. Jason Cole issued a statement once the christenings were completed: "The spirit of friendship between Elpida and Rokkenjima has never been stronger, and it is an honour to name these two fine vessels in honour of Elpidia. Even with the dark clouds of war looming in the horizon we host this event not in the name of war, but in that of friendship and peace. The Resolute Class Frigates are some of the most advanced and effective on the seas, while the Steadfast Class have proven their value with the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy. On behalf of the Rokkenjiman People and the Empress I thank the People of Elpidia, and hope that Spirit of Elpidia and Pride of Lydcaer can be sources of pride for both our Peoples."  Pride of Lydcaer waits in Lydcaer, her namesake, to say farewell before her initial deployment. In line with Rokkenjiman naval traditions the vessels were christened during their commissioning ceremony, conducted jointly between the Rokkenjiman Ambassador to Elpidia and the Elpidian Prime Minister. It marks the first time in Rokkenjiman history that a foreigner has been a part of a christening ceremony. The vessels will now travel to Rokkenjiman waters to begin their post-shakedown availability. Edited by Beatrice, 5th February 2014 - 03:40 AM.
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| Beatrice | 7th February 2014 - 10:37 AM Post #33 | |
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Rokkenjima Presses Forward with Intervention The intervention in Themata has opened with coordinated military strikes against the Thematan regime, according to reports from Imperial High Command. The Empress, who returned from the Novincian Coexistence Conference earlier this week, personally authorized Operation: Vigilant Watch to proceed early Friday morning after a state of war was declared against the United Themata Republic. The Declaration of War may be viewed below:
It is unclear if the Warsaw Alliance will uphold their threats against the CSTO in declaring war on the alliance in response to attacks upon Themata. With the weight of world opinion against the United Thematan Republic and for change in the nation, coupled with the Empress touting that any such acts from the Warsaw Alliance would constitute war against the entirety of the Covenant, and the potential for an expanded conflict is clearly seen. |
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| Beatrice | 11th February 2014 - 05:17 AM Post #34 | |
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The Battle of Rokkenjima Sea: Victory Imminent Task Force Kraken has engaged the Thematan Navy in the Rokkenjima Sea. Imperial High Command reports that 'great damage' has been inflicted upon the Thematan Navy, and that 'capitulation is expected in the coming hours.' Task Force Kraken, under the command of Captain Alex Rowe, has sustained minor damage over the course of the incursion with no vessels lost, although two vessels have withdrawn from the theatre. Imperial High Command stated that they were "pleased" with the progress being made against the Thematan Navy. Imperial High Command expects to begin conducting air support operations over the Thematan mainland with Task Force Kraken providing bombardment and air defense, as well as humanitarian relief to the people of Themata. A force of 20,000 peacekeepers are expected to begin their deployment to Themata which will be joining Quinntopian and Novincian forces liberating Themata from the north. The final days of the regime seem to be in sight. Empress Disregards "Zone of Albanoran Intervention"  The unilaterally declared 'Zone of Albanoran Intervention' On the foreign front President Cervantes of Albanor has declared a unilateral 'Zone of Albanoran Intervention' which has seen resistance in CSTO partner Elpidia. The Office of the Lord Protector released the following response to the Declaration:
The Empress has noted that the "self-declared zone changes nothing for Imperial policy in the region. Task Force Steady Hand shall continue to operate as the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy's forward deployment to Elpidia and will still uphold its mission of maintaining security and order in Peniche Bay, the Krimeon Sea, the Illumic Channel, and the Great Northern Sea. Furthermore, Imperial Armed Forces based out of Elpidia will continue to act as a force of stability in the region, allowing Rokkenjima to act in the swift defense of her allies in Cotf Arayne and the surrounding region." The Empress supported the statement released by the Office of the Lord Protector, stating "Unilateral moves are never good for regional, and thus global, stability. We feel that instead of unilateral actions this energy should be diverted to the Covenant of Nations. We do not desire a new era of imperialism where zones across our world are walled off as the defensive domain of just one power. Instead Rokkenjima shall direct her efforts to a multilateral solution which serves the interests of peace, security and stability in a mutually agreed manner." |
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| Beatrice | 11th February 2014 - 05:02 PM Post #35 | |
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"Zone of Albanoran Intervention" Update: 'A welcome step' The Empress stated that the clarification from President Cervantes concerning the Zone of Albanoran Intervention was "a welcome step in calming the concerns noted by their neighbours. I have little issue with his clarified stance and wish it had been released as such from the beginning. It certainly sounds a lot less like a neo-imperialist experiment, and I've always been supportive of neighbours assisting each other." When asked about Rokkenjima's opinion concerning the concept of 'intervention zones' the Empress smiled, "We live in an increasingly inter-connected world where circumstances and incidents in one corner of the world can have a great impact, felt even over the distances of the vast oceans. Rokkenjima recognizes that it is the responsibility of all free nations to extinguish oppression and injustice wherever they may exist, empowering people everywhere to exert their rights, and seeing that rogue regimes are cast from power to ensure stability. Is there a 'Zone of Rokkenjiman Intervention', you might ask? I can say yes, and it exists wherever it is a just and free nations obligation to act." Princess Madeleine Dead: Empress offers Condolences Following the assassination of the Verovian Princess the Empress released a statement of support and condolence: "I would like to offer the full sympathy and condolences of the People of Rokkenjima to the Empire of Verover, and especially to the Emperor following the assassination of Princess Madeleine. Rokkenjima stands ready to offer any assistance in bringing those responsible to justice, and will employ the intelligence assets of the First Empire to this end. Verover shall not stand alone, and I shall not rest until such cowardly assassins cannot inflict such harm upon another person." Edited by Beatrice, 12th February 2014 - 03:14 PM.
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| Beatrice | 12th February 2014 - 03:39 PM Post #36 | |
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Rokkenjma Celebrates as Wedding Approaches Celebrations have erupted across Rokkenjima as the Imperial Wedding nears. The Empress selected four Envoys, with the three remaining Envoys to be selected by the family of Prince Alexander following her deferment. She has invited the children of the Arovium Provincial Orphanage as her Guests of Honour and is reportedly making a donation of ŕđ4 million to renovate the orphanage and provide increased opportunities for the children who call it home. While Republicans have criticized the decision to hold the wedding while Rokkenjima is at war the Empress has defended the decision, noting that February 21st is a sacred day in Rokkenjima. "Sometimes, in the darkest of days, even a break in the clouds can restore faith and hope." Empress Clarifies Rokkenjiman Policy As the streets of Pyrettania were filled with men and women calling for 'full equal rights' in Rokkenjima the Empress has issued a Decree, clarifying and setting in law what was already common practice in Rokkenjima. "The Imperial Government will not discriminate against people of any race, creed, or sexual orientation. No government has the power or authority to regulate love between two consenting adults," she stated. While holdouts exist in portions of Rokkenjima a majority of citizens have celebrated this clarification and hailed the dedication of the Empress to equality. Under the Federal Republic marriage was recognized only as a union between a man and woman, citizens of the LGBT community often faced persecution and discrimination. "While that legacy was cast off with the proclamation of the First Empire it is now official. Love is love, and no human may judge it." |
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| Beatrice | 12th February 2014 - 09:38 PM Post #37 | |
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Rokkenjman Economy Marks New Heights  A report from the Imperial Councilor for Treasury and Finance, Warren Kline, has brought good news concerning the economy of Rokkenjima. Since the proclamation of the First Empire the Rokkenjiman economy has posted healthy growth, a welcome change from the series of crashes during the Republican era. Since the last report was published the Rokkenjiman economy grew from रᶁ13.3 trillion to रᶁ16.5 trillion, while the GDP per capita grew from रᶁ25,517.21 to रᶁ31,456.14. The Empress hailed the improved numbers to the policies the First Empire has enacted, "fixing several fundamental flaws in Republican policies which benefited a select few at the expense of the majority." In related news the Rokkenjiman Ducat also rose, with रᶁ1 now being worth $1.53. Unemployment has fallen from 3% to 2.55%, meaning the policies of the Empress are putting more Rokkenjimans to work. "The Rokkenjiman economy is on a path of sustainable growth, providing the Rokkenjiman people with a growing standard of living. We also expect immigration to increase as the economy grows, providing Rokkenjima with skilled labour as people look to improve their lives," Warren Kline added. The Imperial Defense Budget, often a target of criticism from the National Democratic Party, rose from रᶁ59.9 billion to रᶁ1.6 trillion. "The Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces have seen increasing global responsibilities and commitments, including a large forward deployment to Elpidia. I don't believe a single cent is wasted when it ensures our soldiers are protected and have the tools necessary to conduct their mission. While the Federal Republic was content with leaving our great Navy rusting in the Rokkenjima Sea I am not. The era of Rokkenjiman embarrassment has passed," the Empress said in response to the criticism. Edited by Beatrice, 13th February 2014 - 06:30 AM.
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| Beatrice | 13th February 2014 - 03:34 AM Post #38 | |
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Indyleaks Strikes Again: Rokkenjima Considered Military Action in Albanor The First Empire was contemplating military action against Albanor, according to documents released by Indyleaks earlier today. "Albanor's support for the Thematan regime has granted the regime a brief reprieve and, with their proximity to Elpidia, present an element which must be considered," one document read. Another stated that "A coordinated campaign from naval and air assets already in the region would remove this element from consideration. Targeting military installations would hamper any response Albanor would be able to mount upon the commencement of a Rokkenjiman intervention in Themata while discouraging President Cervantes from further interference in the execution of Rokkenjiman policy." The plan specifically called for a naval bombardment of Antor and Port Honor along with air strikes deeper into the country. "Airfields and naval facilities are to be recognized as priority targets to limit Albanor's ability to transport troops and materials to Themata, as well as to neutralize their ability to engage the IRN and IRAF in the Illumic Channel. The Empress has declared targets near civilian areas as off-limits, though targets of strategic importance in the capital have been deemed legitimate." Some of the documents bore the signature of the Empress, indicating that she was in full support of the potential strikes. The Empress criticized the release of the documents and sought to minimize any controversy as a result of their release. "Albanor had declared their intention to enter any conflict on the side of Themata, thus it is only prudent that the First Empire would explore options to address any threats to herself and her allies. The potential for a strike against Elpidia was considered, and so I authorized contigency plans to ensure the safety and security of our allies. Thankfully President Cervantes recognized the truth regarding the Thematan regime and withdrew his support, thus removing the need for these plans. I hold no ill-will towards the President or Albanor and, sadly, this irresponsible release will only hamper attempts to normalize relations between Rokkenjima and Albanor." The RBC will keep you up-to-date with any further developments regarding the release of these documents. |
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| Beatrice | 14th February 2014 - 12:31 PM Post #39 | |
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Empress Approves Aid to Liberal Communist Party The Empress has approved an initial installment of financial and military aid to the Liberal Communist Party, one of the leading figures in the Thematan Revolution. रᶁ1.5b in financial aid was authorized for immediate disbursement, while another रᶁ500,000 has been made available for disbursement at a future date. Shipments of RK-A-12 'Defender' rifles and B-45 anti-armour weapons have begun, with the arms being smuggled into the nation via areas under rebel control. "Rokkenjima supports the Thematan Revolution fully," the Empress said during a press conference. "This aid will further strengthen their ability to fight and will provide them with further resources with which to tear down the regime. In addition to this aid I've approved a request from Imperial High Command to deploy ground forces to Themata. Where or when we deploy these troops will be at a date and location of our choosing," she continued. If the Imperial Army is deployed to Themata it would mark the first time in decades, perhaps longer, that Rokkenjiman boots have touched the ground of a foreign nation while at war. When asked if she was concerned about aid to the regime the Empress shook her head, stating with her trademark confidence, "Even if we were to see an intervention on the side of the regime it's clear to any logical person that they've already lost the war. Their navy, that which is still above the water anyway, lay in shambles, their air force is currently experiencing the might of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Air Force, and soon they shall know the unbreakable force that is the Imperial Rokkenjiman Army. Intervening on their behalf would be suicide as Rokkenjima is here to stay the course." |
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| Beatrice | 15th February 2014 - 11:18 PM Post #40 | |
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Lord High Steward Reacts to Pravda Piece Warns against 'irresponsible actions' from Warsaw powers Lord High Steward Charles Ofdensen has said the recent story produced by The USR Pravda was "nothing but fabricated propaganda designed to delude his impressionable citizens, frame a war of aggression as one of defense, and convince his allies into a conflict not in their best interests." He criticized the characterization of the CSTO as fascist, while calling statements about murder in Chernobereg "the most absurd allegations I've seen in media in quite a while. It's so ridiculous that it's not worth responding to any further than I already have." "I would simply warn Chairman Stalin, and other Warsaw members, against irrational and irresponsible actions. Any attacks against a fellow member of the Covenant of Nations would represent a point of no return for the USR, and by extension the Warsaw Alliance. There's no need for an expansion of this conflict," he continued. Imperial warships are still in the Sea of Kyne and have been preparing for any potential USR moves, while unconfirmed reports of additional aircraft being deployed to the Elpidian forward deployment have appeared on the web.  "The people of Chernobereg have been known to die as stampedes of people form, all of them running from the murder and fascism of Chernobereg! They trample each other to death as they attempt to reach this bastion of freedom, safety and socialism! No, no, keep your attention on me, the Thematan regime is not on the path towards collapse! The CSTO is a weak, vile and wretched alliance which will collapse under the weight of their ineptitude!" Meanwhile USR Bob, an example of which is provided above, has become a staple of Rokkenjiman social media in the hours following the USR Pravda broadcast. Though it is not known if the man in the picture is actually from the USR his image has been attached to the phenomenon regardless. Some suspect that the image was released by the Cyber Operations Directorate to ignite the social sphere, yet this too is presently unconfirmed. The Lord High Steward had no comments regarding USR Bob. Edited by Beatrice, 15th February 2014 - 11:21 PM.
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| Beatrice | 19th February 2014 - 06:54 PM Post #41 | |
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Task Force Steady Hand Expands Operations  Rokkenjiman Aurora Class Destroyers Patrol International Waters near Albanor Task Force Steady Hand, in response to the decreased threat against Elpidia in retaliation for CSTO operations against Elpidia, has expanded its present operations according to Imperial High Command. Citing a 'concern for crimes on the high seas and general piracy' the Task Force has expanded its area of operations to include a greater portion of the Great Northern Sea, increased patrols of the Illumic Channel, and an increased presence in the North Western portion of the Krimeon Sea to the south and east of Albanor. "Piracy is a very real concern and it is a responsibility of all nations to ensure fair and open access to the seas," High Admiral Cole stated to the RBC. "These maneuvers pose no threat to any nation and should be viewed as a positive force in the region."  Resolute Class Frigates patrol in the expanded Great Northern Sea Sphere of Operations The increased Rokkenjiman destroyer and frigate deployments follows both the completion of contracts from Elpidia and the purchase of six further Aurora class destroyers from Kazarovia, both CSTO members and key naval partners of the First Empire. "The Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy has only been strengthened by the addition of Elpidian and Kazarovian steel in the fleet, and with the upcoming Supremacy class our partnerships with our allies grows stronger as the days pass. In some ways the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy has become an international navy, a fact which further enhances the capabilities of Rokkenjima and the CSTO as a whole," Cole added. "As we see further ICON deployment across the CSTO I imagine that the navies of the CSTO will increasingly begin to act as a well-oiled, well coordinated machine. ICON, serving as the common backbone, will allow for a fleet where each vessel could be from a different CSTO power, yet maintain the ability to operate as if they sailed under the same banner. With such a capability in place tranquil seas will be ensured from sea to shining sea." Anonymous Publications Goes Live A group of Rokkenjiman university students have unveiled an alternative to Indyleaks, citing dissatisfaction with the controversial organization. Dubbed 'Anonymous Publications' the new whistle-blower platform pledges "transparency with responsibility," noting that any documents released on their platform would have names redacted to prevent "placing lives at risk in an irresponsible fashion," and to "prevent the escalation of international conflict via the release of sensitive information." "The people have the right to know what their governments are doing in their name, but we mustn't allow information to become a weapon itself," one student shared with the RBC. "We feel that Indyleaks has lost its way, and seek to prevent a credible alternative where whistle-blowers can feel both protected and confident that their information won't cause harm." Noted transparency activist Janice Petrozza has donated funds and equipment to the budding organization, while also assisting the students with her coding expertise. When asked if Anonymous Publications would face scrutiny and prosecution from the Imperial Government the Lord High Steward answered "No. The Empress feels that the free exchange of information is a vital component to any free society and will not impede the efforts of these young men and women." We'll bring you more concerning Anonymous Publications in future releases. Edited by Beatrice, 19th February 2014 - 06:56 PM.
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| Beatrice | 20th February 2014 - 07:28 PM Post #42 | |
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National Democratic Party: Beatrice 'Not Eligible' to be Empress In another display of insanity the National Democratic Party have claimed that the Empress is not eligible to sit on the Throne due to her birth in the Morivian town of Claystone. "The pretender-Empress wasn't born in Rokkenjima, she wasn't raised in Rokkenjima, she knows nothing about our land or the culture she destroyed in proclaiming her Empire. Thus the National Democratic Party finds Beatrice Anselmo not eligible to be the Empress of Rokkenjima, unfit to rule, and call for her immediate abdication and a restoration of the Republican government," a spokesperson for the NDP stated. The stance has resulted in widespread disapproval of the NDP as well as a public outpouring of anger as the statement ignores the several injustices the Federal Republic imposed upon Rokkenjima. In response to the NDP statement the Empress released the following: "I'm well aware that the National Democratic Party has chosen to highlight yet another of their injustices by declaring me 'not eligible' as your Empress. Have they forgotten that their predecessors exiled my family from Rokkenjima in 1915? Did they forget that, unhappy with exile, they then proceeded to kill what remained of my family? Have they forgotten that their forces killed my mother and father, not to mention my sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins? What of Princess Evanthe's mother and father whom they also killed in cold blood? "The National Democratic Party continues to shed any legitimacy they may have held following their reformation, however I shall not revoke their right to participate in Rokkenjiman politics, nor shall I call for their disbandment. It is the people of Rokkenjima who will judge the NDP, for they remember the Rokkenjiman culture their predecessors tried to kill, the terms of enslavement they placed upon the Rokkenjiman people, and the ninety-eight years of oppression they imposed on Rokkenjima." Support for the Empress remains high at 87% at the time of publication. Rokkenjimans Host Protest at Embassy of Chernobereg Mirroring the demonstrations which took place in Elpidiana following the passage of the "Sex Act" citizens of Rokkenjima have staged protests in front of the Embassy of Chernobereg in Pyrettania following its recent amendment. Rokkenjimans Against Discrimination (RAD) organized the protest which has drawn an estimated crowd of 15,000 people to Sakura Square, where most foreign embassies to Rokkenjima are hosted. Citing "inequality and discrimination" against same-sex couples in Chernobereg RAD protesters have called on the Empress to act. Some have called on the Empress to rescind invitations to her wedding. "The idea behind 'separate but equal' are still as vile as those behind outright discrimination," RAD organizer Greg Dogan shouted into a megaphone outside of the embassy. "Their amendment of the Sex Act could have brought about equal rights, instead they have ignored that opportunity and continue to view same-sex couples as being worth less than straight couples. The Empress has spoken against injustices in the USR, she's taken a stance against atrocities in Themata, her voice must not remain silent regarding Chernobereg!" Lord High Steward Charles addressed the concerns in a Dispatch: "The Empress is aware of the ongoing protests at Sakura Square regarding the Sex Act in Chernobereg. She understands and shares your concerns and has informed me that she will be discussing the situation with the Crown Prince in meetings following her marriage, relaying both your concerns and hers, in the hopes of effecting positive change. Rescinding the invitation would not address nor assist in a dialogue concerning the Sex Act and would very well hamper efforts between Rokkenjima and Chernobereg concerning this important issue. She calls for your understanding and support in this decision and promises to review the situation following her meeting with the Crown Prince." We'll continue to keep you updated concerning the protests and any developments following discussions between the Empress and the Crown Prince which are expected to take place the day following her marriage in a series of meetings with the attending dignitaries. Edited by Beatrice, 20th February 2014 - 08:15 PM.
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| Beatrice | 21st February 2014 - 12:44 AM Post #43 | |
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Lord High Steward Responds to Regime Propaganda Following a recent report in the regime-controlled 'Themata Today' which claimed that "the Rokkenjimans bombard countless neighborhoods and cities with their ruthless navy and airforce. Just yesterday it was reported that 279 civilians have died in the recent bombardments of The People." The report is included in full below:
"This report is a textbook example of propaganda, pure and simple," the Lord High Steward stated. "The present bombardment of Starry Harbour and Moonland are being conducted with precision munitions in strikes targeting military installations and defensive positions only. Naval gunfire is being directed and coordinated only on sites of military significance via ICON which ensures our accuracy and ability to drop ordinance on military targets while avoiding civilian casualties as much as humanly possible. We must remember while we read these reports that this is a regime which slaughtered its own citizens and then threw them into mass graves; I'm forced to ask, where was their concern for the lives of their people then? "According to information available from Imperial High Command the operation has been conducted flawlessly. With the targetting assistance of ICON the main guns on our Celestial-class battleships have proven to be greatly accurate, allowing us to utilize them alongside guided missiles with no noticeable difference in accuracy between the two. Rokkenjima sued for peace until it was no longer possible, we've no interest in wars of annexation and fight alongside the Thematan people against a government which holds no regard for human life. Statements made against the CSTO, likewise, are nothing but the fabrications of a regime in its twilight, one which has been willing to blatantly lie to the international community to hold onto power and continue their crimes against the people. "Once air defenses have been disabled the Empress has authorized a plan to drop tonnes of humanitarian aid across Themata, restoring to them necessities which have long been withheld by the regime. Food, clean water, and medical supplies are amongst those authorized in the drop. Though it has been long-standing Imperial policy I'll state it once more: the Empress does not authorize military strikes in majority civilian areas. Let the lies be put to rest once and for all." |
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| Beatrice | 22nd February 2014 - 12:42 AM Post #44 | |
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First Empire Recognizes Liberal Communist Party/Liberty Coalition as Legitimate Government of Themata In a move which has been in the makings for some time the Empress has officially recognized the Liberal Communist Party/Liberty Coalition as the legitimate government of Themata, while releasing an additional रᶁ500,000 in financial aid to the combined forces. "It is clear that the people of Themata have thrown their support behind the Liberal Communist Party and Liberty, and this new stance recognizes that fact. I encourage our allies in the CSTO and our neutral partners to follow us in recognizing the government the people of Themata have chosen, and call on them to aid these forces against the regime," the Empress stated. The move is an important one, as it now allows the First Empire to increase their aid to the rebellion in accordance with Imperial law. The Empress authorized further military aid towards the LCP/Liberty coalition, proposing a 'lend-lease' arrangement to provide the forces with materiel aid, including a transfer of surplus Sirius-B Tanks and R3-Be'lakor howitzers, amongst other equipment specifically requested by the Empress. "I say now to the people of Themata that your nightmare is nearly to an end. Just as Rokkenjima cast off a corporatocracy, just as we've bled at their hands, so too have you. Our bonds, the link between our peoples, cannot be shattered and we shall not allow another Federal Republic to continue their gross abuses!" she proclaimed. Edited by Beatrice, 22nd February 2014 - 12:43 AM.
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| Beatrice | 25th February 2014 - 05:04 AM Post #45 | |
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Prime Minister Warns Albanor  Lord Ronove Issues Warning to Albanor Prime Minister Ronove has issued a warning to Albanor regarding their shipment to Themata in a statement given at a press conference. "With Rokkenjiman and allied naval forces dotting the seas between Albanor and Themata I would urge Albanor to reconsider the percentage of success for such a transfer of military hardware to Themata," the Prime Minister answered in response to a question. "We cannot have materiel in the hands of forces we know nothing about in Themata, nor can we allow for an unpredictable element to take shape on the ground as the revolution progresses. While Rokkenjima recognizes the LCP/Liberty coalition as the legitimate government the Empress still wishes to see formal elections held once peace has been restored in Themata to confirm this is the government the People have truly chosen. Furthermore, we cannot allow for any chance of this military hardware falling into the hands of the regime, which is a very real possibility." The Prime Minister continued, "The Rokkenjima Sea is under the control of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy, likewise the Strait of Arovium is under constant Imperial patrol. This doesn't even bring the Quinntopian Navy into the equation yet, and I'm certain they would view this situation in much the same way as Rokkenjima. Thus I must warn Albanor to reconsider such a shipment, as your vessels will not be granted passage by the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy into the Rokkenjima Sea or through the Strait of Arovium." At the same time the Prime Minister made clear that "Rokkenjima does not desire hostility with Albanor." We'll have to wait and see what transpires, and whether Albanor will continue with their shipment or attempt other avenues to achieve their goals. The RBC will continue to keep you up to date on this development. |
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| Beatrice | 28th February 2014 - 10:56 AM Post #46 | |
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A Rokkenjiman View of the World In a series of polls conducted by Ahsinxao Media Services a glimpse at how everyday Rokkenjimans view the world has been provided. Rokkenjimans have paid more attention to international events since the Empress restored the Monarchy, casting off a tradition of non-interventionism which bordered on isolationism and replacing a mistrust of the world around her, embracing close alliances with several states. What State do you view as the greatest threat to global peace and security? A majority of respondents named the USR, and by extension the Warsaw Alliance, as the greatest threats to global peace and security. To a lesser extent Themata has been viewed as a threat, though international intervention in Themata has largely reduced that threat. The Thematan Council has been recognized as being responsible for the assassination attempt against the Empress, a coup in Tytor, and covert interference against the CSTO Mandate in Vicarious, along with gross human rights abuses against its own people. Which nations do you view as Rokkenjima's closest allies? Dartfordia, Elpidia, Kazarovia and Quinntopia easily topped this list, being points within each other, with Novincia following closely behind the CSTO member states. It has been rumoured that Novincia is amongst a short list of states expected to be invited to the CSTO in the coming months, with the Empress naming Novincia the first "Major non-CSTO Ally", a designation which is to be granted to close allies of Rokkenjima who are not members of the CSTO. While 52% polled said that CSTO member Chernobereg was amongst Rokkenjima's closest allies announcements from the Emperor, diplomatic messages during heightened tensions earlier in the year, and the Sex Act have all harmed public opinion of Chernobereg. This discontent erupted into protests outside the Chernobergi Embassy in Sakura Square which have drawn in upwards of 20,000 protesters to date. Do you support the foreign and military policies pursued by the Empress? 72% of respondents said that they supported the foreign and military policies of the Empress, while 15% said that they disapproved of the policies. 13% didn't feel strongly either way, according to the poll. Since taking the Throne the Empress has rebuilt the Imperial Rokkenjiman Military, deploying it several times near and afar. These deployments include an Imperial Task Force to the Great Northern Sea against a USR blockade, another Task Force to Narahivoo during a border conflict, international anti-piracy efforts in the Sea of Kyne and the Illumic Channel, a massive forward deployment to Elpidia, as well as the present intervention in Themata. The Empress has also played a key role in the establishment of the Fair Seas Concordat, the Cross-Straits Treaty Organization, the Covenant of Nations, has signed an open borders agreement with Quinntopia which is expected to expand, amongst other international efforts. At many times the Empress herself has attended international conferences to address pressing issues facing the world, and has involved Rokkenjima directly in matters which may not always impact the First Empire. When asked if they felt that a greater Rokkenjiman involvement in the rest of the world was positive 74% said yes, with 20% saying no. Do you support Rokkenjiman membership in the CSTO? The highest approval numbers were seen when this question was asked, with 88% of respondents supporting Rokkenjima's membership in the CSTO. Most questioned viewed the CSTO as 'a stabilizing force in the world,' seeing the alliance as fighting for human rights, peace and democracy. Do you support the CSTO Intervention in Themata? Rokkenjiman public opinion on intervention in Themata was somewhat more divided, with Rokkenjiman support for the intervention falling to 65% in support to 34% opposing the intervention. While those who oppose the intervention say that it is 'necessary' due to the horrid conditions in the nation they also worry that it is an intervention in the sovereign affairs of a foreign state. Finally, in a summary of questions Rokkenjimans felt that efforts need to be undertaken to reduce the threat of war between the nations of the world, that a stronger effort need to be thrown behind the Covenant of Nations and that poverty. hunger and debt reduction efforts need to be pursued by major world powers. Rokkenjimans strongly supported the forward deployment to Elpidia, while also stating that an increased Rokkenjiman role in the world would lead to stability. They also stated a desire for an increased utilization of Rokkenjiman soft-power which, in some ways, has been taking shape in the form of economic negotiations and other diplomatic projects currently being planned and some which are underway. Edited by Beatrice, 28th February 2014 - 02:22 PM.
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| Beatrice | 4th March 2014 - 01:15 AM Post #47 | |
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YourVoice.rk Proposal: Recall Rokkenjiman Ambassador Utilizing a new function on YourVoice.rk a petition gathering 500,000 signatures has called on the Empress to recall the Rokkenjiman Ambassador to Chernobereg. "Through protests which have been manufactured by a biased media the safety of the Rokkenjiman Embassy, and our Ambassador, can no longer be guaranteed. If they wish to continue their backwards approach to equality, and wish to leave the CSTO: good riddance." The call has been rebuffed by the Empress, calling the idea "exactly what isn't needed at this time." "I recognize that a petition on YourVoice.rk has gathered 500,000 votes, calling for me to recall our Ambassador to Chernobereg. I can only say that such an attitude is exactly what isn't needed at this time and urge the Rokkenjiman People to understand that the situation facing Rokkenjiman-Chernobergi relations is, sadly, complicated. Rash decisions which would only hamper our ability to communicate with our Chernobergi allies would hamper the healing process which needs to take place. Furthermore there is also no evidence that our Ambassador is in any danger, and I have full faith in Chernobereg to uphold their responsibilities in that regard. "Furthermore I find it concerning that many in Rokkenjima are willing to simply walk away from Chernobereg in a time when their arms should be open. The regrettable situation facing Rokkenjiman-Chernobergi relations calls on both our nations to pause and review, finding where our paths diverged while engaging in an honest dialogue to repair those relations which have been harmed. I for one am not prepared to give up on our Chernobergi allies and I do not feel the people of Rokkenjima should be so quick to write them off either. Let us open our ears and listen to the Chernobergis as allies, not as adversaries worthy of our ire. "Rokkenjima does not walk away from her allies, nor does she write them off when relations become difficult. It is my hopes that a stronger relationship may emerge from the depths of this divide, and I can only call on those in Chernoberg who share my desires there to help make such an outcome a reality." |
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| Beatrice | 7th March 2014 - 04:14 AM Post #48 | |
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New Naval Base Approved Rokkenjima has secured a naval base in Dartfordia according to a Dispatch from the Lord High Steward. Queen Katenka Naval Base (QKNB) will serve as the principal home port of the Rokkenjiman Kyne Fleet, one of four Fleets proposed under the planned Naval Reorganization of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy. In the agreement with Dartfordia Imperial High Command is obligated to inform Dartfordian officials before the base is used to launch any attacks. The Empress had the following to say about the QKNB:
The Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy has seen several commitments around the world, serving as an anti-piracy force as well as one which has endeavoured to ensure free and equal access to the seas for all nations. Acquisition of Frigates, Minstrels Confirmed Along with news of the Queen Katenka Naval Base Imperial High Command confirmed the construction of fifteen further Resolute Class Frigates, ten Ruby Class Submarines, and two further Minstrel Class amphibious assault ships. "The Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy has seen increasing global responsibilities, in order to ensure the IRN is able to meet current and future responsibilities further expansion is necessary," High Admiral Cole said to the RBC. When asked if foreign contracts had been offered in this round of construction he said that none had been confirmed, but "IHC is considering offering contracts to our valued Naval partners." |
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| Beatrice | 9th March 2014 - 08:36 PM Post #49 | |
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Public Support for New Chernobereg Offer The Rokkenjiman public seem to have heeded the words of the Empress as they largely support a proposal by the Empress, according to new numbers. Enjoying the support of 69% of Rokkenjimans the Empress has announced her intentions to propose a 'Treaty of Friendship and Understanding' to the government of Chernobereg which would call for a bi-annual meeting between the Rokkenjiman and Chernobergi sovereigns, an increase in general dialogue between the Rokkenjiman and Chernobergi governments, a lessening of travel restrictions. and increased cultural links between the nations. Should relations improve between Rokkenjima and Chernobereg the Empress has left the door open for an expansion of the scope of the proposed Ti reaty. The Empress shared the following with the RBC: "With a Chernobergi exit from the CSTO looking likely the People of Rokkenjima would like to work with the Chernobergi people in coming to a new understanding. To these ends I shall be proposing a Treaty of Friendship and Understanding to Chernobereg, to renew relations between our nations and revive a spirit of friendship which has starved as of late. Whether or not Chernobereg remains within the CSTO Rokkenjima intends to work towards more cordial relations between our nations. I hope to see these efforts reciprocated by the Chernobergi government, and state my honest hopes for better relations between our nations." It is unclear what reaction Chernobereg will return the efforts of the Empress with. The Office of the Empress noted their hopes for a positive reaction, however, recognized that "With such sour relations lately the possibility of an outright rejection has been considered. We certainly hope that isn't the case because the Empress is sincere in her words. CSTO membership or not, the Empress wishes to improve relations, and this is a good first step towards that," an Imperial Liaison stated to the press. We'll bring you the Chernobergi response as soon as it is available. First Empire Supports Novincian Membership in the CSTO The First Empire has thrown its support behind a request from Novincia to join the Cross-Straits Treaty Organization, according to the Lord High Steward. Novincia has been supportive of CSTO ventures in the past, most recently deploying troops in support of the Thematan Liberation, while also acting in a role to preserve peace and order in the world. "Novincia is both a vanguard of peace and stability as well as a close friend to the CSTO. Rokkenjima thus feels that Novincia is a perfect match for CSTO membership," the Lord High Steward. According to Article Nine of the Cross Straits Treaty: "The Parties may, by unanimous agreement, invite any other Albion, Ardian or Cotf Arayne State in a position to further the principles of this Treaty and to contribute to the security of the Cross-Straits area to accede to this Treaty. Any State so invited may become a Party to the Treaty by depositing its instrument of accession with the government hosting the council. The Chairperson of the CSTO will inform each of the Parties of the deposit of each such instrument of accession." We'll continue to keep you updated as the votes come in. |
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| Beatrice | 10th March 2014 - 07:04 AM Post #50 | |
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Imperial High Command Adds Bombers to QAMB  An RKB-73 'Citadel' takes off from Rokkenjima, destined for QAMB Imperial High Command has dispatched twenty RKB-73 'Citadel' strategic bombers to Queen Adriana Military Base in a move which has been planned for some time. "Rokkenjima is a committed partner in the stability and security of the Cotf Arayne region, and the addition of the Citadel to QAMB increases our capabilities to those ends in the region," a statement from IHC reads. While the situation on the continent is much less tense than it once was IHC recognizes the need for "vigilance and dedication" towards its allies in the region. IHC added that "These planes aren't a threat to any nation in the region and shouldn't be seen as such."  An RAC-130 'Spectre' Also deployed to QAMB were twenty RAC-130 'Spectre' ground-attack aircraft. The domestic response to the deployments has been supportive, with Imperial lawmakers, with the National Democrats being the only source of opposition. "Is the Empress adding to our defensive capabilities at the imperialist base or is she preparing for yet another war as the Thematan conflict winds down?" one lawmaker asked. "Our Party intends to force a vote which would see the QAMB closed and our young men and women returned home where they belong." While the vote isn't expected to go anywhere Prime Minister Ronove was quick to dismiss the notion of a closure of QAMB. "Rokkenjima will not abandon her obligations, her word is sound and true. The musings of those who will use any reason to criticize our Empress shouldn't be taken by our allies as any indication of Rokkenjiman policy." Edited by Beatrice, 10th March 2014 - 05:34 PM.
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| Beatrice | 12th March 2014 - 01:23 AM Post #51 | |
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Economic Progress Continues; Imperial Government 'Satisfied' by monthly numbers This months report from the Imperial Councilor for Treasury and Finance has confirmed that the Rokkenjiman economy has remained on a path of sustainable growth, according to Warren Kline. The Rokkenjiman GDP rose from रᶁ16.5 trillion to रᶁ17.4 trillion, cracking the रᶁ17 trillion mark for the first time. Likewise, GDP per capita rose from रᶁ31,456.14 to रᶁ33,213.82. The value of the Rokkenjiman Ducat likewise rose, with रᶁ1 now being worth $1.57, a gain of four cents. Unemployment saw a slight increase by .04%, to 2.59%, while inflation fell to 1.03%. The Empress has hailed the numbers as confirmation of 'an age of Rokkenjiman prosperity' while promising to explore further programs to utilize the revived Rokkenjiman economy to benefit the Rokkenjiman people. "The wealth of our nation belongs to her People, not to any elite, not to any foreign force, but to the People who have generated this wealth." |
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| Beatrice | 14th March 2014 - 07:27 PM Post #52 | |
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Imperial High Command Monitors USR Military Developments Imperial High Command has been monitoring recent military developments in the USR. "We've noticed there's been moves to conscript more men into the armed forces of the USR, as well as what appears to be a general build-up of their military. Movements towards the south are of concern, however, it is too early to make any concrete assestments at this time," a statement from the Joint Council stated. "Imperial assets at QAMB are capable of addressing any threat the USR may pose to its neighbours, and with progress continuing ahead of schedule on the QKMB in Dartfordia our capabilities will only increase in addressing any potential situation." We'll keep you up-to-date with any future developments as they come in. Rokkenjiman Parliament Approves Withdrawal from Covenant of Nations The Rokkenjiman Parliament approved a Rokkenjiman withdrawal from the Covenant of Nations earlier this week, a proposal which has since sat on the desk of the Empress awaiting Imperial Assent. The motion cites the inactivity of the Covenant, along with the inability the Covenant has shown in preventing the outbreak of war and conflict. It also noted that progress on the initiatives proposed by Secretary General Evanthe had not moved forward, further cementing the decision to withdraw. The Empress is expected to approve the withdrawal after discussions with other Covenant of Nations members. "It is sad to see the Covenant of Nations fail the bright hopes and dreams the international community shared upon its foundation," the Empress said in a press conference. "While I would support improving upon an organization which was hard-fought for I cannot see any way we could continue in light of the present paralysis. No wars were prevented by the Covenant, thus it has failed in its ultimate goal. I applaud Princess Evanthe for her efforts heading the Covenant and intend to put her proposals at the forefront of Imperial foreign policy; they shall not die with the Covenant." Princess Evanthe declined a request for comments. "Rokkenjima will work with her CSTO allies and independent friends across the world to preserve the spirit of unity the international community found in the Covenant, and to move forward with individual components of the organization. To help preserve the intent of preventing conflict when possible I will be proposing a global non-aggression pact, and will encourage the CSTO to engage the CIS and Warsaw to propose a system geared towards preserving peace and serenity between the nations. Let us salvage what we can from this grand experiment and at least keep the spirit of the Covenant alive," the Empress concluded. |
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| Beatrice | 15th March 2014 - 04:21 PM Post #53 | |
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Empress Addresses Several Issues Following a statement from President Cervantes of Albanor, and statements made by Matthew Vinage-Sovetskie, Chief Commissar of the People's Assembly, the Empress aired a televised response to the statements made by President Cervantes. Also noted were Rokkenjiman concerns over a general rise in tensions which she said were "a troubling concern."  The Empress Issues her Address
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| Beatrice | 15th March 2014 - 06:48 PM Post #54 | |
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Anonymous Publications: Rokkenjiman Fleet Reorganization Plans Leaked Anonymous Publications has leaked the composition of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Fleet, a project Imperial High Command had stated was underway. According to the information available the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy is turning away from a task-force based strategy towards establishing three fleets. In recent times task forces have been deployed on an as-needed basis. Now, according to the leak, three 'permanent' fleets will exist: the Rokkenjiman Home Fleet, the Rokkenjiman Northern Fleet, and the Rokkenjiman Kyne Fleet. Of the three Fleets the RKF is the largest. Comprised of 50 vessels the RKF includes seven capital vessels: three battleships, two aircraft carriers (three if one counts Pristina, a Minstrel Class Amphibious Assault Ship), and the Sturgeon Class Assault Vessel Evanthe. Seven attack submarines, along with the missile submarine Creeping Death are set to compliment the RKF. Rokkenjiman Kyne Fleet: (59 Vessels) Spoiler: click to toggle Rokkenjiman Illumic Fleet: (44 Vessels) Spoiler: click to toggle Rokkenjima Home Fleet: (35 Vessels) Spoiler: click to toggle IHC had no comment concerning the leak at press time but promised a response to the leak later in the day.[/b][/b] Edited by Beatrice, 3rd April 2014 - 09:02 PM.
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| Beatrice | 20th March 2014 - 10:41 PM Post #55 | |
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Empress Makes Post-Covenant Proposals With the disintegration of the Covenant of Nations showing no signs of slowing the Empress shared many proposals for a post-Covenant world, after which she renewed Rokkenjiman calls for the adoption and establishment of the Fair Seas Concordat. The Covenant of Nations was established after tensions between the CSTO and its independent partners, and the Warsaw Alliance concerning the later's biological weapons programs and their blockade of the Great Northern Sea. The Empress proposed the Covenant of Nations in a defining speech before the Ecclesiarreich Conference, stating:
According to the Office of the Lord High Steward the Empress is in consultations with the Imperial Council concerning a post-Covenant world. When asked if the Empress would propose a more capable successor to the Covenant of Nations the Lord High Steward had the following to offer: "The loss of the Covenant of Nations is a disappointing development, however the organization itself seemed hobbled in many of its steps. The Empress believes that the spirit which united the international community in the Covenant is still alive and well and has not ruled out a new proposal which will address the shortcomings of the Covenant. Further news will be released as the Empress works with the Imperial Council and our allies." As the Empress moves to salvage what can be saved of the Covenant of Nations, and with the statements of the Lord High Steward, many are speculating what exactly the Empress is planning. We'll bring it to you first once further details are available. Soluna X: The Mission to Ma'lia Begins After putting the first human on the moon ISEA has announced that the first test launch for the manned fly-by of Ma'lia will take place tomorrow. "This test flight will allow us to learn many things before we send our astronauts to Ma'lia. The initial mission involves an orbital test flight which will lay the foundations for our future missions. We're optimistic that the work our agency has conducted thus far will prove itself and pave the way for the second test flight, after which our quest for exploration will begin," ISEA spokesperson Vivian Race stated. Following the orbital test flight a second test flight will test the components of the mission in a long duration high orbit Pending the success of this test, which has been termed Flight A, a second test flight (Flight B) will be marked by a long duration mission in a high orbit above Mundus. This is expected to test the components for the actual Ma'lia mission in conditions similar enough to that of the Ma'lia trip while being close enough to our planet in case of any emergencies. Flight B is expected to last for a year, after which Flight C will take Rokkenjiman astronauts to Ma'lia. "Preparations for exploring other areas of space have been ongoing since the conclusion of our initial mission to the moon. We've seen great strides not only in the Rokkenjiman space program, but also in those of our allies as well," Vivian Race continued. "We're not releasing any plans beyond the Ma'lia fly-by at this time, although I will simply point out that there's no shortage of targets for exploration in the depths of space," Vivian Race continued. |
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| Beatrice | 24th March 2014 - 05:16 PM Post #56 | |
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Rokkenjiman-Quinntopian Shipbuilding Deal Announced  An Isidrio Class Destroyer The Lord High Steward has announced further cooperation between Rokkenjima and Quinntopia in a recently announced deal. Rokkenjima has liscensed the construction of fifteen Isidrio Class Destroyers and, in turn, will construct ten of the upcoming Supremacy Class Frigates for the Quinntopian Navy. The Supremacy Class Frigate is a joint venture between Rokkenjima and Kazarovia, and the first ships of the class are expected to enter service with the navies by the early 2020s.  Supremacy Class Frigate, Artist's Conception "CSTO naval cooperation will ensure a continued CSTO presence on the high seas which is unrivaled," the Lord High Steward said. "With the proposed upgrades to the Integrated Command and Operations Network this capability will continue to improve, ensuring tranquil seas for all. The Empress looks forward to continued cooperation and future deals which see our Navies progress together." Edited by Beatrice, 24th March 2014 - 05:16 PM.
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| Beatrice | 28th March 2014 - 04:55 PM Post #57 | |
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Biased Media Fuels Phantom Crisis Following the formation of the Free Market Alliance a rise in anti-communist sentiment has been noted and, according to fresh polling data, a majority of Rokkenjimans attribute this to a 'biased media which fuels a phantom crisis.' Others have claimed the media of certain FMA members are 'drunk off propaganda' and view the alliance as a 'long-term threat to peace and global stability.' Lord High Steward Ofdensen is set to make official remarks concerning these events in the coming days. Images and messages have appeared on blogs and other media publications throughout Rokkenjima, mainly depicting the Albanor News Network as a subservient mouthpiece of the Albanoran government while depicting the overall media sources in the FMA as a puppet show. The following images and statements do not represent the views of the Rokkenjima Broadcasting Corporation: Your Wish is My Report, President Cervantes!  Thank you, ANN! I couldn't control the people without you! Worry not, dear President! The People will believe what I tell them they believe!  A Puppet Show for the 'Free' The Lord High Steward is expected to detail the Rokkenjiman view of these developments and potential solutions to ratchet down the tension. A strong statement of support for Quinntopia is expected in the remarks, as well as a warning for FMA nations to refrain from interfering in the rebuilding process of Themata. The RBC will bring you full coverage of the Lord High Steward's remarks. |
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| Beatrice | 29th March 2014 - 04:24 PM Post #58 | |
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Lord High Steward Makes Statement Concerning Tensions  Lord High Steward Ofdensen making his Statement The Lord High Steward has issued a televised statement regarding recent tensions related to the Free Market Alliance. He made the statement before attending a session of the Imperial Council. A transcript of his remarks is included below.
Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy Increases Patrols The Rokkenjiman Illumic Fleet has announced increased patrols of the Illumic Channel, Great Northern Sea, Krimeon Sea and Peniche Bay according to a report from Imperial High Command. "The stability and tranquility of these waters has been a mandate of the RIF and its immediate predecessor, Task Fleet Steady Hand, since the forward deployment to Elpidia. The rise of new alliances does not change this mandate and it won't change the way we operate. The security of these waters is an immediate concern for our CSTO partners, thus it's an immediate concern of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy," Admiral Eleanor Osbourne stated. As construction continues on several new vessels for the Imperial Navy it is expected that greater attention will be show to the RIF, with more destroyers, submarines and frigates planned to be added to the Fleet. Imperial High Command has also announced preliminary planning to test ICON systems across the allied fleets to see how integration and interoperability efforts are progressing. "Adaptability and progress are key strengths of several naval programs across the CSTO and I feel it will continue to give us an advantage over any potential adversary. The integration across the allied fleets, along with the expansion of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy, will continue to provide us with a most critical advantage." Also mentioned was a possible port visit to Kazarovia of an unspecified roster, possibly in Ordea province. We'll bring you more as this story develops. Edited by Beatrice, 29th March 2014 - 04:28 PM.
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| Beatrice | 2nd April 2014 - 08:58 AM Post #59 | |
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Eyes Turn to Pyrena Castle  Pyrena Castle, the seat of sovereign power The worlds eyes are set to turn to Pyrena Castle as the Empress is scheduled to deliver her first Imperial Address. Many topics are expected to be covered including the state of the Empire including the progress made since the fall of the Federal Republic, new foreign policy initiatives, expanding trade relations, and the remarkable progress of the Imperial Space and Exploration Agency. Also expected are remarks concerning Rokkenjiman military commitments, the evolution of the geopolitical situation, improving relations with the United Soviet Russia and an update on the Thematan situation. The Imperial Address will be carried live on Channel 3. Rokkenjiman Aid to the United Soviet Russia The Rokkenjiman Aid Package to the United Soviet Russia has started to be distributed according to the Vicegerent. The aid package, which includes food, fuel and medical aid, was accepted after the Lord High Steward offered it on behalf of the Empress in return for reforms in the USR. The Imperial Government has noted concerns about the humanitarian situation in the USR and would like to see "progress in the living conditions of USR citizens and advancements in human and civil rights accorded to the People." The Vicegerent was quick to praise the acceptance of the offer yet accepted that change would not come "overnight." Public opinion concerning the aid has been generally supportive. Some have speculated that the aid package was a measure to tone down global tensions given the birth of the Free Market Alliance and their anti-communist policies, a speculation which appears to be legitimate. "The international community has a storied history in its dealings with the USR," the Vicegerent said, "however this chapter is different. While certain parties are happy to irresponsibly paint the USR into a corner Rokkenjima recognizes that engagement, while providing an environment friendly to encouraging positive change, is the correct path to take." Joining the Vicegerent in her remarks was Prime Minister Ronove who issued a warning to the Free Market Alliance to "refrain from provoking" the USR. "The acceptance of the Rokkenjiman Aid Package has been accompanied by a lift of a ban on Rokkenjiman and Quinntopian publications in the USR, the re-opening of embassies between CSTO members and the USR, as well as a withdrawal of USR troops from the mountain region between the USR and Chernobereg. These steps, and a pledge for future actions, are steps in the right direction and are impossible to dismiss. In the interests of stability and the people of the USR the FMA is strongly encouraged to refrain from provoking the USR." |
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| Beatrice | 4th April 2014 - 05:58 PM Post #60 | |
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Monthly Economic Report: Rokkenjiman Economy Passes रᶁ18 Trillion Mark The Monthly Economic Report shows growth in the Rokkenjiman economy has continued, surpassing the रᶁ18 trillion mark ahead of previous estimates, according to the Ministry of Treasury and Finance. The Rokkenjiman GDP rose from रᶁ17.4 trillion to रᶁ18.2 trillion. Meanwhile GDP per capita rose from रᶁ33,213.82 to रᶁ34,806.08. The value of the Rokkenjiman Ducat posted a gain of three cents, with रᶁ1 now being worth $1.60. Unemployment saw a small increase of .01% to 2.6%, while inflation fell to 0.99%. A trade surplus of रᶁ334.2 billion was noted as well. "The Rokkenjiman Economy is posting gains where it needs to and is remaining relatively stable where it needs to. I'm pleased that we've been able to meet the Empress' goals of 'sustainability, stability, growth' in the new Rokkenjiman economy," Councilor Kline stated. Councilor Tveitan Resigns Vegard Tveitan, former Imperial Councilor for the Armed Services, has resigned following an incident at an Imperial Council session. According to the Lord High Steward Councilor Tveitan "tendered his resignation to the Emperor following conduct unbecoming of a member of the Imperial Council. The Emperor graciously accepted his resignation, wishing him well in his future endeavours. In reply to a request for a statement Mr. Tveitan shared the following:
In the mean time Admiral Henry Cole, who already serves as Imperial Councilor for the Admiralty, has been selected to take up the duties vacated by Mr. Tveitan. Admiral Cole, in addition to his role as Imperial Councilor for the Admiralty, also serves as Chairman of Imperial High Command, the body tasked with overseeing coordination and command of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces on behalf of the Empress. Many view Admiral Cole as the third most powerful man in Rokkenjima behind the Emperor and Lord High Steward. Admiral Cole was a key player in the defeat of the Federal Republic, effectively ensuring the loyalty of the Rokkenjiman Navy to Imperialist forces. A trusted advisor, ally and friend of the Empress he has assisted in several efforts to restore the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy and other branches of the Armed Forces, producing a capable military which enjoys global reach. Whether or not the Empress will find a full time replacement to fill the spot left by Tveitan remains left to be seen. In the mean time, however, the position formerly held by Mr. Tveitan is in excellent hands. Edited by Beatrice, 4th April 2014 - 08:19 PM.
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| Beatrice | 16th April 2014 - 08:28 AM Post #61 | |
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Olive Branch Update: Operation Imminent? Recent moves in the Krimeon Sea indicate that an operation to reclaim the Olive Branch is imminent. While Imperial High Command has remained silent concerning the details of any operation they have confirmed that "Olive Branch will be back in Rokkenjiman hands shortly." The vessel was hijacked by Thematan radicals with the assistance of First Officer Tibold, and the presence of a bomb aboard her presents yet more concerns. Imperial High Command has stated that the presence of the explosives aboard Olive Branch will not hinder efforts to recover her. Currently Olive Branch appears to be on a course for Albanor though she is pursued by a Task Force which includes IRN Venturer, the flagship of the Illumic Fleet. Commanded by Captain Savannah Penrose, one of the most skilled captains in the Imperial Fleet, confidence runs high that this crisis will be brought to a close without incident. Imperial Address to be issued on Friday The Imperial Address is scheduled to be issued this Friday, according to the Lord High Steward. The address is expected to cover a mostly foreign agenda with Rokkenjiman initiatives for a safer, more fair world to be presented. The Empress, in a break from past Rokkenjiman rulers, ended the isolation of Rokkenjima following the Imperialist victory in the Second Patriotic War. After the failure of the Covenant of Nations she's expected to present a strong case for international cooperation while assuring Rokkenjiman allies that Rokkenjima will continue to uphold and potentially expand her international commitments. As the efforts to rebuild the Rokkenjiman military have been successful the Empress is expected to expand the soft-power capabilities of the First Empire while also ensuring that present foreign interests are protected. "In times of crisis the First Empire has been amongst the first to respond, providing responsible and measured leadership which has benefited not only Rokkenjima, but also her allies and independent partners. We have a responsibility before us to maintain a leading role in the international community, and this is a responsibility the Empress will reaffirm in her Address," the Lord High Steward stated. |
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| Beatrice | 16th April 2014 - 10:33 PM Post #62 | |
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Fly-by of Ma'lia a Go  Soluna XII races for Ma'lia After successful test launches the Mission to Ma'lia is underway. Soluna XII took off from the Alonsi Space Facility this morning to take advantage of lowered velocity requirements to reach Ma'lia, according to ISEA. The four astronauts face an expected four-month voyage to the second planet, and have reported that "our mission proceeds smoothly and without incident." The crew is expected to pass within 3,000 miles of the Ma'lian surface, providing a window of a few hours to conduct a detailed study of the planet. Unmanned probes will descend to the surface from the main Soluna XII craft to assist in their studies, according to ISEA. Astronomical studies of the sun and Nabu will wrap up the mission. The crew is comprised of astronauts Martha Smith, Rebecca Hardy, Jessica Tankian and Karen Treudeau. They carry with them the hopes and aspirations of the Rokkenjiman nation as the ambitious Rokkenjiman space program continues to blaze new paths into space. Rumours have been circulating that a 'long-distance call' may be planned with the Soviet I mission to Nergal, though these have neither been confirmed or denied by ISEA or the QPCC. The RBC will continue to keep you up-to-date as ISEA shares details concerning the historic mission of Soluna XII. Ardian Entente 2.0 The Empress issued a Decree earlier today calling for the rebirth of the Ardian Entente, one of the first alliances of the modern era and the first international agreement signed by Rokkenjima. Updated in recognition of the changes which have transpired in the world since those early days the proposed Ardian Entente sees expanded responsibilities and commitments, while also making a clear statement against foreign interference upon the Ardian continent. Quinntopia and Kazarovia, two key allies of the First Empire, have been invited to join the revived Ardian Entente while Ndambia, Themata and Verover have been invited to participate as observers. The proposal has been seen in Rokkenjima as a prelude to the policies the Empress intends to announce in her Imperial Address, marking a Rokkenjiman reaffirmation of its dedication to its global responsibilities and commitments. The continued stability of the Ardian continent has been a key concern of the Empress following the collapse of the Covenant of Nations. While Ardia has been lucky to avoid the turmoil seen in Cotf Arayne, Alba Karinya and, to a lesser extent Albion this position of luck is not being taken for granted, according to the Lord High Steward. "Rokkenjima has decided that we must safeguard the stability and state of peace which has existed in Ardia, recognizing that apart from the Second Patriotic War and the Thematan Intervention that Ardia has been largely free of war and crisis. Working in concert with two of our key allies to focus on the needs of Ardia we feel confident that the Ardian Entente will solidify the gains all Ardian nations have made to ensure the stability and prosperity of the continent. Furthermore, the commitment the Empress has made to ensuring the safety of all Ardian states from foreign influence will ensure that the destiny of Ardia remains in Ardian hands, and that a sphere of independence will thrive throughout the continent," the Lord High Steward stated. Edited by Beatrice, 16th April 2014 - 10:33 PM.
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| Beatrice | 21st April 2014 - 09:32 PM Post #63 | |
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Air and Naval Maneuvers Proceed Imperial Address Aircraft carriers of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy, accompanied by their escorts, have been reportedly conducting flight maneuvers south of the Strait of Austrana and the Northwestern Krimeon Sea. According to Imperial High Command these activities are not in response to the ongoing situations in Ndambia or East Moreland and are "routine exercises which have been planned for some time." In addition to the activities of the carriers IRN Viscount of the Illumic Fleet conducted practice with her main guns, whilst similar exercises were conducted upon IRN Valiant, flagship of the Home Fleet. Beatrice, a Sturgeon class assault vessel of the Illumic Fleet, was reportedly a part of the exercises.  IRN Enterprise of the Home Fleet The activities near the Strait of Austrana remained within the Rokkenjiman Contiguous Zone and posed no disruption to international shipping in the region. RK-80s performed several maneuvers over the Strait while captivating several citizens of Southkeep in the process. "The Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces conduct regular drills and exercises much like other militaries in the world, thus we don't believe these exercises should raise any eyebrows," an IHC spokesperson was quoted as saying. "I'm pleased to say that our exercises have thus far been highly successful and have proven the progress our Empress has made in not only rebuilding our military, but placing it amongst the most powerful upon Mundus." A Citadel takes off from QAMB, April 21st RKB-73 Citadels were seen taking off from Queen Adriana Military Base in Elpidia, joining the Illumic Fleet for maneuvers. Reportedly targeting rock formations and small, unclaimed and uninhabited islands several runs were conducted with live ammunition which included a bomb derived from the Mark II Thermobaric Warhead, dubbed the Pacifier. "The Pacifier has proven its effectiveness in testing, and continues to show great promise as a further development from the Mark II warhead. With both an air and naval delivery system now in place IHC is confident in the First Empire's ability to respond at a place and time of our choosing should the Empress order the deployment of this valuable asset," the spokesperson added.  A recording of a 'Pacifier' upon detonation during testing in January 2014 The exercises proceed the 'Imperial Address' to be issued by the Empress and some have speculated that the exercises are responses to the situations in Ndambia and East Moreland despite the official explanation for them. Whether or not the exercises have been influenced by international developments it remains clear that the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces possess a global reach thanks to the vigorous program of revitalization by the Empress. At press time no such exercises were noted in the Sea of Kyne, or from any elements of the Rokkenjiman Kyne Fleet based out of Queen Katenka Naval Base in Dartfordia. |
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| Beatrice | 23rd April 2014 - 06:53 PM Post #64 | |
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Imperial Address Dominated by Foreign Affairs Security Increased at Rokkenjiman Embassies in Ndambia and East Moreland, Relations Suspended with EM As many had expected the Imperial Address was largely dominated by foreign affairs, with less time devoted to domestic affairs. A spokesperson from Pyrena Castle stated that the Empress would be issuing an 'Interior Decree' to sum up her domestic agenda, the text of which will be made available to the public later this week. "People have recognized that foreign affairs are taking the front seat right now, and it's understandable given the sound domestic position the First Empire finds itself in. Indeed, the tone of the speech has resounded with the people; 79% had a positive view of the speech and this has bumped the Empress's approval rating up to 90%." Transcript of the Imperial Address The Crisis in East Moreland Security at the Rokkenjiman Embassy in Ndambia has been beefed up due to the deteriorating situation in the Kingdom while the Imperial Rokkenjiman Guard at the Rokkenjiman Embassy in East Moreland have implemented 'increased security measures' following the suspension of relations and growing protests. The Vicegerent stated the following in a brief statement given to the press: "After final arrangements at the Embassy in East Moreland are completed our diplomatic staff will be returning to Rokkenjima and relations will continue their suspension until the political crisis is resolved. The evidence revealed by our Elpidian allies and Achkaerinese friends is damning to any claims of legitimacy, not to mention certain moves within East Moreland which call for further scrutiny." The Princess continued, "Too many times have we seen coups, attempted assassinations and successful assassinations against the leadership of several nations, Rokkenjima included. We've also seen forces take to arms in Ndambia, disregarding any peaceful, legitimate channels which could have been used to address their concerns in a legitimate fashion. The First Empire will not grant even the illusion of legitimacy to governments which ascend to power via such routes, nor to those who so willingly employ them in the hopes of usurping the authority of a legitimate government. Rokkenjima will not support mob tactics masquerading as due political process." The Vicegerent concluded her statement with a short message: "As Vicegerent and Princess of Rokkenjima I am truly sorry for the people of East Moreland, and hope that they may soon awake from the nightmare which has descended upon their nation." Travel Advisory Issued A travel advisory has been issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advising Rokkenjiman citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to East Moreland and Ndambia.
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| Beatrice | 1st May 2014 - 03:01 AM Post #65 | |
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Lord High Steward Resigns, Replacement Announced Charles Foster Ofdensen, Lord High Steward of Rokkenjima, has announced his ressignation according to the Office of the Vicegerent. "Charles tendered his resignation to the Empress which was accepted," the Vicegerent, Princess Evanthe said in comments regarding the retirement. "His service to the Empress shall not be ending, however, as he has accepted an appointment as Chief Steward of the Imperial Household Ministry. "The duties Charles will be undertaking in this new role are quite similar to the duties he already handled since his days as Vicegerent, thus the focus on these duties was a desire he and the Empress shared their desire for," the Vicegerent continued. As Chief Steward of the IHM Charles will be responsible for tending to the interests of the Imperial Family, managing the vast financial assets of the Empress, amongst a variety of other duties tied directly to the Imperial Family. The Chief Steward had no comments at press time.  Lucius Stanley, Lord High Steward of Rokkenjima Replacing him as Lord High Steward is Lucius Stanley. A graduate of Ashinxao University (class of 2002), he furthered his education at Ashinxao Law School, graduating at the top of his class from both institutions. He excelled at History, Sociology, Economics, Geopolitics, Political Sciences, Computer Technology (specializing in software design and security), and Law. He offered this brief statement to the RBC following his appointment: "It is an honour to be appointed by the Empress to this position of trust and responsibility. The work which Charles accomplished as Lord High Steward will stand the test of time and I can hope to leave half the impact he has as I take over the reigns. I look forward to working with the Empress, Emperor and Vicegerent in setting a steady course for the First Empire, improving our positions and securing our standing abroad." |
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| Beatrice | 2nd May 2014 - 01:44 AM Post #66 | |
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Crisis in East Moreland: Rokkenjima 'Welcomes the return of the King'  The Lord High Steward speaks in the Imperial Press Room Speaking in the Imperial Press Room Lord High Steward Lucius Stanley hailed the return of King David III, pledging "the full support of the First Empire in restoring his legitimate authority in East Moreland." Criticism was also levied against statements made by Prince Regent James, whom Mr. Stanley called "a cowardice pretender who has now proposed a division of the East Moreland nation to satisfy his lust for power at the expense of the People." The statements mark some of the harshest concerning the Prince Regent. Previously the Empress had announced that Rokkenjima "cannot recognize the government of the Prince Regent as the legitimate government of East Moreland and hereby suspends all relations until the restoration of legitimate authority in the nation." "The writing is on the wall as far as the time the Prince Regent has left in power," Lucius said in a stern tone. "The international community has not accepted him and with the return of the King I'm certain that we shall see domestic support for his continued leadership fail as the People realize the depths of his lying, corruption, and yes, criminal acts. Each day which passes that Prince Regent James continues his illegitimate rule the First Empire will increase pressure upon his Government via targeted sanctions, the acquisition of assets held in Rokkenjima should they exist along with a concerted effort to starve this regime of any outside flows of arms, financial resources and other resources which would allow him to maintain a comfortable rule over East Moreland." Rokkenjiman diplomatic staff remain in the Rokkenjiman Embassy in East Moreland despite a suspension of relations, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "To be frank we feel that they're safer in the Embassy at this time than if we tried to bring them home," an official from the Ministry stated. "The guard unit attached for the purposes of the security of the Embassy are highly capable of preventing any mishaps regarding the Embassy." Militarization of Space: Lord High Steward Sets a Line Following the conclusion of comments regarding East Moreland the Lord High Steward commented on concerns regarding the militarization of space. "The First Empire will not accept any efforts to base military assets in space and will work with our allies and independent partners to ensure that space remains a peaceful frontier for the whole of humanity. We believe that space-based missiles, soldiers or other such assets would present a global cause for concern, thus we shall be working to establish a 'Treaty of Outer Space' which would prohibit the moving of such assets into space. We must protect the rights of all nations to enjoy equal access to space while seeing that it does not become yet another battlefield," he said to a reporter. |
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| Beatrice | 4th May 2014 - 10:52 PM Post #67 | |
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Empress Recognizes Republic of Safraen; Refuses Recognition for the Socialist State The First Empire has recognized the Republic of Safraen as a sovereign state and the legitimate successor to the former Safraenian state. "Following the announcement from Foreign Secretary Quanii Laat I'm pleased to add the recognition of Rokkenjima to the Republic of Safraen," the Empress said from Chrysanthemum Throne. "I shall explore the establishment of diplomatic ties with the Republic in the coming days and shall present a comprehensive aid package to aid the People of Safraen as they embark upon this new era." The Empress also commented on the proclamation of the Socialist State of Safraen. "Regarding the territories of Safraen under the control of the United Soviet Russia let it be known that Rokkenjima does not recognize the 'Socialist State of Safraen' as a sovereign nation nor as a legitimate successor to the former Safraenian state. I cannot recognize a puppet government, which shall prove to be an extension of the USR proper, as a sovereign entity and prohibit Rokkenjiman businesses from conducting any business with the puppet state. Rokkenjima supports the Republic's claims over the entirety of Safraen and encourages the international community to refuse recognition of the 'Soviet State'. We must recognize it for what it is: a blatantly imperialist move of the USR which deserves the condemnation of the international community." When asked if the developments would impact Rokkenjiman aid to the USR the Empress shook her head. "For now aid programs to the USR will continue as they benefit the People of the USR. However, I've been in consultations with the Imperial Council and will be bringing the option of targeted sanctions and other measures available to us before our CSTO partners. The age of imperialism is over and this goes to show the true nature of the USR that I've long warned the international community of. Communist in name only, a state interested only in dominating the lives of its people and those around it." Battle Groups Deploy to Great Northern Sea, Sea of Kyne Two Imperial Battle Groups have departed QAMB for the Great Northern Sea for naval exercises while three have departed QKMB for similar exercises in the Sea of Kyne, according to Imperial High Command. The two IBGs in the Great Northern Sea are centered around the battleship Viscount and the carrier Excalibur, whilst the IBGs in the Sea of Kyne are centered around the Quinntopia Class battleship Valkyrie, the Celestial class battleship Venerable, and the carrier Expedition.  IRN Excalibur underway "The Rokkenjiman Kyne Fleet will be conducting exercises in the Northern Sea of Kyne, whilst our Illumic Fleet shall be conducting exercises in the western portion of the Great Northern Sea," High Admiral Cole shared with the RBC. When asked if there were plans for broader CSTO exercises the High Admiral stated that "Such an announcement would come from the Vicegerent, for now these are solely Rokkenjiman exercises." |
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| Beatrice | 7th May 2014 - 05:07 AM Post #68 | |
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Rokkenjima Imposes Sanctions upon the USR Officials in the government of the United Soviet Russia have been targeted by sanctions, according to the Lord High Steward. These sanctions have included the freezing of any assets held in Rokkenjima along with travel bans. Furthermore, Rokkenjiman businesses have been prohibited from conducting any business with the self-proclaimed Soviet State as well as the United Soviet Russia. While the Empress has stated that the First Empire "reserves the right to impose further sanctions" she has declined to list what those sanctions would entail, or if any interruption in the Rokkenjiman Aid Program to the USR would be considered. "It is not our desire to harm the people of the USR through these measures, but to impose consequences upon the government of Stalin for attempting to expand a Soviet Empire," the Empress stated to the RBC. While direct trade between Rokkenjima and the United Soviet Russia is believed to be small the Empress believes the measures will send a message to Chairman Stalin and inspire further consequences from the broader international community. "We cannot allow another chapter to be added to the Safraen Tragedy; one of Soviet Imperialism. The USR has long been recognized as an abuser of human rights, and to subject the people of Safraen to a future of totalitarianism would be a massive failure for an international community which proclaims to value human rights and freedom," she continued in her remarks. Meanwhile Rokkenjiman Naval exercises continue in the Krimeon Sea and the Great Northern Sea although Imperial High Command continues to insist they have nothing to do with the developing situation regarding Safraen. Edited by Beatrice, 7th May 2014 - 05:08 AM.
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| Beatrice | 7th May 2014 - 09:48 AM Post #69 | |
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Rokkenjimans Evacuate USR: Soviet Diplomats Expelled Following the recent statement from the Soviet Government the Rokkenjiman Embassy in the USR has began the evacuation of Rokkenjiman diplomatic staff and their families living in the USR, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A small number of Rokkenjiman citizens who have lived in the USR are also being evacuated, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is confident that all Rokkenjimans will have exited the USR within the 48-hour time-frame. "Rokkenjimans have avoided travel to the USR after several Travel Advisories, so the evacuation operation is thankfully relatively minor," Councilor Albright shared with the RBC. "Likewise, the Soviet Ambassador and diplomatic staff have been ordered to leave Rokkenjima within 48-hours." The Lord High Steward was critical of the Soviet Government's decision, calling it "a disappointing development for the people of the United Soviet Russia. Rokkenjiman assistance benefited the people of the Soviet state, and despite government reports we have every reason to believe that the living conditions for the common people of the USR continue to be deplorable. With a disrespect for human rights rivaled only by the Corporate Regime of Themata we can expect their situation to only grow worse." In exchange for Rokkenjiman aid the USR had agreed to reforms geared towards improving the lives of its citizens and later reforms in the political system, though many believe that these pledges were unlikely to be upheld anyway. The Vicegerent, Princess Evanthe, issued the following response to the Soviet Statement: "It is somewhat ironic that the Soviet Government would chastise us for not being involved in the Safraen crisis, a situation which I have been monitoring and advising the Empress on. As several nations were involved in the operations there the Empress felt that Rokkenjiman assistance was not warranted at the time, and with the announcement of an international conference inviting the voices of the international community felt that it was appropriate to assist in securing the future for the Safraen people. With Rokkenjiman aid programs now rejected, and the conditions attached to them, we are seeing a troubling situation develop for those under the rule of the Soviet Government in both the USR and the proclaimed 'Soviet State'. In the 21st century the extension of control over one nation by another, the establishment of puppet and vassal states, these things do not happen. Rokkenjima will be engaging her CSTO allies, independent partners, and the international community to prevent a grave injustice. Furthermore through radio broadcasts and the Internet the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy, will be undertaking an effort to bring the citizens of the USR a view of the world blackened to them by their Government. Whereas Stalin can easily block our food and medical supplies he may have a more difficult time stopping a flood of information, knowledge and ideas. The international community has gathered several times to combat injustice, to defend rights and values our nations hold in common and believe are the entitlement of all women and men regardless of border. It is the hopes of the First Empire that, again, we can join together to apply the pressure necessary to prevent yet another chapter of tragedy." |
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| Beatrice | 9th May 2014 - 11:04 PM Post #70 | |
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Rokkenjiman Air Base in Novincia Approved An air base will begin construction in the Novincian province of Sakta according to information provided by the Ministry of Defense. "After thoughtful discussions with our Novincian allies it has been decided that in the interests of peace and stability in Cotf Arayne and our interests in mutual defense that we'll press forward with the Imperial Airbase Sakta (IAS). Aircraft from across the spectrum of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Air Force will be stationed at the base, including RK-74s, RK-80s, RKB-73s, among other fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and drones," Councilor Warner stated to the RBC via telephone. The base will also be home to two divisions of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Army (60,000 women and men in total). "The Imperial Rokkenjiman Army will be in a position to react to any crisis which develops in the region. Through enhancing the security of Novincia I am confident that we will be able to react to any situation in Cotf Arayne, furthering our commitment to the stability and security of the region." When asked whether IAS forces would be under the authority of Field Marshal Lancaster Councilor Warner stated: "The Rokkenjiman Forward Deployment to Novincia will be a dedicated command, just as the Rokkenjiman Forward Deployment to Elpidia is. That's all I will state for now." Novincia joined the Cross-Straits Treaty Organization following its participation in the Thematan Intervention. Before that Rokkenjima and Novincia have shared a close, friendly relationship which has been further strengthened by Novincia's ascension into the CSTO. "As stability continues to be a concern in Cotf Arayne it is our hopes that this development will help to bring calm to the region. We look forward to working with our allies, friends and independent partners towards that pursuit." Councilor Warner concluded with the RBC. |
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| Beatrice | 12th May 2014 - 04:32 AM Post #71 | |
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Empress Calls on World to "Not Forget USR Crimes" In a speech at Victoria University upon being awarded honorary degrees the Empress made note of the potential crisis brewing in Eastern Cotf Arayne, urging the international community to "remember the crimes of the Soviet regime" shortly before her departure for the Safrean Conference in East Moreland. The text of the speech can be viewed below:
Empress, Emperor in East Moreland The Empress and Emperor have arrived in East Moreland to attend the Safraen Conference. Arriving aboard the Imperial Yacht Austrana the Imperial Couple were joined by Lord High Steward Lucius Stanley as a member of the Rokkenjiman delegation. The visit also marks the first visit of Crown Princess Adriana to a foreign state, if unofficial. The Crown Princess will remain aboard Austrana for the duration of the conference under the care of her Godparents, Evangeline and Harry. "While the presence of the Crown Princess is interesting we must remember the focus of the conference," Prime Minister Ronove stated at a press conference. "Although she has yet to speak her first word the Empress informed me that the Crown Princess cooed and giggled upon their arrival, so apparently her opinion of East Moreland is positive at least," he added with a chuckle after a brief pause. "With that said, and your appetites hopefully sated, I can state that the Empress will pursue an active agenda at the meeting which will see international understanding and cooperation regarding the future of Safraen. Given the track record of Warsaw diplomats we can pray that they've learned the theatrics at Ecclesiarreich shall not be appropriate this time." Edited by Beatrice, 12th May 2014 - 04:50 AM.
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| Beatrice | 14th May 2014 - 10:09 PM Post #72 | |
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IHC: Expansion of the Fleet The Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy will be expanding its fleet of submarines, destroyers and cruisers according to news from Imperial High Command. The expansion will see ten new Ruby class attack submarines ordered by the IRN, along with ten further Isidrio class destroyers and ten new Steadfast class cruisers. This expansion comes at a time of increased tension with the United Soviet Russia over a variety of issues. "Imperial High Command routinely examines the needs of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy and adjusts its procurments as necessary," a spokesperson from IHC shared with the RBC. "Thus this new round of shipbuilding should come as no surprise given the present needs and responsibilities that the Navy faces." Interestingly rumours have been abound that IHC is considering seven new Millennial class submarines, the first to be considered since the last confrontation with the USR. The Millennial class is based around the Century missile which carried the Mark II thermobaric warhead utilizing a FOBS system. The Century system was marked for retirement, however, due to the collapse of the Covenant of Nations and a resurgence of Warsaw militarism it is rumoured that the Empress has authorized the continuance of the program. "The Century missile of today would carry the Mark IV warhead which has seen increases in the yield of the warhead amongst other enhancements. As far as we know the system would still employ the fractional orbital bombardment system. Apart from that any sources I have in the IRN have been silent concerning the status of the Millennial/Century program, indeed the very truth of this rumour."  IRN Orion, a Millennial Class Submarine Whether or not the rumours are true it is clear that the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy is expanding its capabilities, ensuring that it remains capable of addressing any threat to Rokkenjima, her allies and their interests well into the future. Valiant Shield Deployed to Imperial Airbase Sakta The Valiant Shield has been deployed to Imperial Airbase Sakta in the event of Warsaw aggression against Novincia, according to Imperial High Command. "Pending the approval of the Novincian government we'd like to see further Valiant Shield installations across Novincia to help neutralize the threat posed by Warsaw artillery and rockets," High Admiral Cole stated. "With further development of Valiant Shield and related systems we're confident in the defensive position the system will grant Rokkenjima and her allies."  A Valiant Shield launcher, undated, launches an interceptor missile The deployment of Valiant Shield to Novincia will mark the first foreign use of the system. In a related development Valiant Shield is also seeing deployment to Queen Adriana Military Base in Elpidia, while no announcements have been made concerning a deployment of the system at Queen Katenka Military Base in Dartfordia. In the coming years it is expected that Ma'lia's Spear will also be deployed at home and abroad to increase the defensive capabilities of the First Empire, her allies and bases abroad. In addition to the Surefire anti-ballistic missiles presently deployed IHC has stated that "Rokkenjiman solutions will cast a protective shield which our adversaries will find difficult to break." Edited by Beatrice, 17th May 2014 - 03:50 AM.
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| Beatrice | 15th May 2014 - 10:57 AM Post #73 | |
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Vicegerent Proposes 'Off-Ramp' to Safraen Situation Princess Evanthe has proposed what she calls a 'diplomatic off-ramp' to the standoff over Safraen. "The present standoff over the Safraen question benefits neither the People of Safraen nor the United Soviet Russia. After consultations with the Empress I have reached an agreement which would see sanctions against the USR lifted, a restoration of Rokkenjiman aid and conditions, along with a Rokkenjiman pledge of non-interference in the question regarding the Soviet State of Safraen. With Rokkenjiman aid being rejected it is my concern that the true costs of the sanctions are being felt by the People of the USR, and this is a situation which was supposed to be avoided by their implementation. This agreement would thus achieve the original goals of Rokkenjiman aid while presenting the USR a fair opportunity to prove their intentions before the international community. Should the USR allow a referendum monitored by international inspectors, likely composed of a team from CIS member states should they agree to fulfill such a role, Rokkenjima would consider such a development adequate to put our concerns to rest concerning the future of the Safraen people. The question posed by the referendum would be as follows: 'Do you wish for the Soviet State of Safraen to be established as the successor state to Safraen, or do you wish to dissolve the Soviet State and unite with the Republic of Safraen as the successor state of the former Safraen state?' Should this vote take place and the citizens under Soviet rule decide to unite with the Republic of Safraen we would, naturally, expect the Soviet Government to recognize and respect their wishes. Should they vote to go through with the establishment of the Soviet State Rokkenjima would, likewise, respect that decision. After the conclusion of the referendum Rokkenjima would then again seek the restoration of the Rokkenjiman Aid Program to the USR, along with the original terms upon the USR, while considering the Safraen question resolved. If the USR refuses this offer, or accepts and then acts against the results of the referendum or falsifies the results of the referendum further diplomatic and economic measures would be pursued against the Soviet Government. The Empress has allowed me to offer this compromise for a period of forty-eight hours. Upon the approval of our CSTO allies that forty-eight hour period shall formally begin. It's my hopes that Chairman Stalin will consider and accept this offer, and in a way prove that his intentions are not as we fear. I shall be waiting." Will the Soviet Government accept this 'diplomatic off-ramp' or reject it? Will Rokkenjima's CSTO allies approve of the plan? We shall have our answers within the next forty-eight hours. |
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| Beatrice | 16th May 2014 - 11:19 PM Post #74 | |
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Redacted for now.
Edited by Beatrice, 17th May 2014 - 01:42 AM.
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| Beatrice | 17th May 2014 - 01:28 AM Post #75 | |
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IHC Reveals Helicopter Carrier Imperial High Command has surprised many with the unveiling of the Megitsune class helicopter carrier. Oceania Shipyards were expected to be completing an order of two Minstrel class amphibious assault ships placed late last year, instead it seems that IHC has determined that the Megitsune class will better fulfill the needs of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy. The first ship of the class, IRN Megitsune, is expected to be assigned to the Rokkenjiman Illumic Fleet and will transfer to Queen Adriana Military Base upon completion of her trials.  IRN Megitsune is unveiled to the Public "Megitsune will be round out the capabilities of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy nicely," High Admiral Cole stated upon her unveiling, "and I'm proud to see yet another Rokkenjiman class enter into service. The Megitsune class carries on the fine tradition of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy and is a credit to the skilled shipbuilders of Oceania Shipyards." A second vessel of the class is expected to be completed later in the year and will serve in the Rokkenjiman Home Fleet, according to sources within IHC. |
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| Beatrice | 18th May 2014 - 04:44 PM Post #76 | |
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Empress Commends Achkaerin, UNP; Congratulates new East Moreland PM Despite an end to the Illumic Blockade the Empress had warm words for the nations of Achkaerin and UNP. "The Achkaerin Government has shown wisdom and grace in their response to the blockade," the Empress began, "and I'm thankful for their efforts in the interests of ensuring fair passage through international waters. That Princess Serenity, with the approval of Emperor Peter, would grant safe harbour to CSTO vessels is also a move I'm personally thankful for. They have proven to be level-headed and wise in a crisis situation and it is my hopes that the First Empire and Achkaerin may build a fruitful friendship as this crisis draws to a close." The Rokkenjiman People have responded to Achkaerin's handling of the situation warmly as well, as the favourable opinion of Achkaerin amongst the People stands at 91%, with broad support for expanding diplomatic relations between the nations. "Rokkenjima and her CSTO allies have always operated well within the confines of international law and expected norms, and has never acted in a hostile manner against those who have given no cause for quarrel," the Empress continued. "During each crisis which has involved the CSTO the path of diplomacy has been our first recourse as evidenced by past crises involving the USR and later Themata. We've enjoyed excellent diplomatic relations with the independent nations of the world which is why this situation has been additionally frustrating. Hopefully, in the future, we may see diplomacy allowed to run its course before unilateral actions are taken which hamper that process." "The UNP has also been exemplary in their response to the crisis, and I look forward to the progress which may be made as we enter discussions. I also hope that this incident will show the importance of the Fair Seas Concordat as, while many have held true to the spirit of the document despite its lack of adoption we can see that such an arrangement is no longer viable. We must ensure the rights of coastal states to their waters are protected while ensuring the rights of all states in international waters are not impeded upon in such a fashion. I fully believe that we can work with the UNP on this issue and thank them for their support for the FSC." Finally, regarding the appointment of Harry Samuelson as the new Prime Minister of East Moreland the Empress has issued her "best wishes and congratulations" to the new PM. "I believe he'll prove to be an excellent Prime Minister and look forward to meeting and working with him," the Empress said with a smile. "He's impressed me so far, and perhaps he'll just yet find a Christmas card in his stocking from the Imperial Family," she continued with a light laugh. "With that said I honestly wish him the best and hope that we can get to know each other and increase relations between Rokkenjima and East Moreland." IRN Excalibur to return to QAMB; Assist in water operations Following the disposal of 'pig excrement' in rivers flowing into Elpidia IRN Excalibur will be returning from her deployment in the Great Northern Sea to assist in producing fresh water, according to Imperial High Command. "While bottled water and other supplies have been dispatched from Seaforth, a move which IHC commends, we feel that our ability to generate fresh water will also help to alleviate any harm which may be caused from the release of animal wastes," High Admiral Cole stated. "As the Elpidian Federation has been gracious enough to host the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy it is the least we can do to give back to our allies." Princess Euphemia to visit Elpidia The Princess of Estvua has announced that she will be visiting the Elpidian Federation in the coming days according to the Imperial Household Ministry. "I have been briefed several times daily concerning the Illumic Crisis, especially the measures which have impacted Elpidia. While I may be a Rokkenjiman Princess I am also a proud citizen of the Elpidian Federation and very much consider it my mother country. Another matter I have proposed to the Empress, and one she has personally supported, is my interest in serving in the Elpidian Air Force. Elpidia has given so much to me and I wish to give back to her through serving in her defense." When asked of the statements the Empress said she was "proud of Princess Euphemia. I understand wholeheartedly her desire to serve, to give back and help defend the nation which held her safely out of the hands of the Federal Republic. She has been learning a thing or two from the Imperial Rokkenjiman Air Force and I can assure the Ministry of Defense that she would prove to be a capable and valiant pilot in their service. She may be Rokkenjiman by birth but it is Elpidia which helped her become the woman she is today." |
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| Beatrice | 19th May 2014 - 02:07 AM Post #77 | |
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Celestial Class Successor Announced In about two and a half years the Celestial class will begin to be replaced by its successor, according to Imperial High Command. "The Celestial class has served the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy well, even after the Federal Republic left them to rust into the sea. With the modernization to the class I oversaw I feel the vessels may be able to find a second life in allied navies, thus a decision has been made to offer them to allied navies as they are replaced. IRN Valiant, the oldest of the Celestial class, and the oldest vessel in service with the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy, will remain a commissioned, seagoing vessel. I know the Empress has some proposals for Valiant that will be shared once we cross this bridge," High Admiral Cole stated.  An artist's depiction of the Celestial successor, the Katenka Class Battleship "Construction on the first two Katenka Class battleships has commenced and is expected to be completed within the next three years. Further details concerning the vessels will be released at a later date,[1] though I can say that the Katenka class will feature larger caliber guns which will utilize the same scramjet projectile system as the Celestial class. Guidance and targeting will be handled via ICON, which itself is due to see an expansion of capabilities. Rokkenjima has always held faith in the capabilities and viability of the battleship even in the modern age, a belief vindicated over the course of the Thematan Intervention." Five Katenka Class battleships are to replace the present six of the Celestial Class. [1] Still working out modernization details as, while a new class to Mundus, there's some things that will need to be changed to ensure relevance in modern conflict, similar to the modernization of the Celestial class, yet sort of not. |
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| Beatrice | 20th May 2014 - 01:19 AM Post #78 | |
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Cross-Straits Union Comes to Fruition  The Flag of Rokkenjima aside the flag of the Cross-Straits Union The Cross-Straits Union between Dartfordia, Elpidia, Novincia, Quinntopia and Rokkenjima saw its official announcement yesterday. The benefits of the CSU have resonated well with the Rokkenjiman People who welcome the development of the common market and further integration with her allies. The CSU flag can now be seen flying below the Rokkenjiman Flag atop Pyrena Castle, whilst a firework display utilizing the colours red, blue and white took place as night fell. Kazarovia and Tytor are observer members of the CSU. "The CSU marks a new chapter in the chapter of our history which began with the Cross-Straits Treaty Organization. The bonds between Rokkenjima and her allies have blossomed into the CSU, and I couldn't be more proud of the work our nations have undertaken to realize this glorious day," the Empress shared with the RBC. The National Democratic Party has stated its opposition to Rokkenjima's membership in the CSU, claiming it is "an attack against the sovereignty and dignity of Rokkenjima." Opposition to the CSU is strongest in the NDP stronghold of Bevelle, whilst NDP members desire a referrendum concerning Arovium's independence. The movement is expected to fail, however, as the more populous Southern Arovium remains overly supportive of the Empress and CSU membership. Edited by Beatrice, 20th May 2014 - 01:20 AM.
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| Beatrice | 22nd May 2014 - 08:51 AM Post #79 | |
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Pro Republican Forces Seize Government Buildings in Bevelle, Fogshore; Declare Independence Forces loyal to the Republican movement have seized government buildings in Bevelle and Fogshore following the failure of the Arovium secession movement. Mitch Grady, who took over leadership of the National Democratic Party last month, has personally endorsed the seizures and declared Northern Arovium independent from the First Empire. "We have watched as the tentacles of the Rokkenjiman octopus spread themselves around the world and have had enough. The Federal Republic of North Arovium declares its independence from Rokkenjima and its vehicles of imperialism!"  The above flag, which has become a symbol of anti Cross-Straits sentiment, was burned by NDP supporters Mitch Grady continued: "With the establishment of the Cross Straits Union, military bases in three nations now and a continuous naval presence in the Sea of Kyne, Krimeon Sea, Illumic Channel and Great Northern Sea the Empress has proclaimed her Empire. And today the NDP casts off a name forced upon it by the Empress and declares the rebirth of our Federal Republic. We do not expect recognition from foreign powers, and understand the position such recognition would put them in. All we desire is our right to exist free from the First Empire." Mitch Grady also reached out to the Borland Separatists, stating that "the Empress has shown her hypocrisy yet again in her support of King David, yet so vigorously defending the rights of Safraen to determine its future. Why are the Borlanders so vilified for seeking this same fundamental right? I will do what the Empress lacked the courage to do so and declare that the Federal Republic stands by the Borland Separatists in their struggle for self-determination. It is a fight we understand well, and one which we must coordinate, lest those who oppress us stand unchallenged." Although presently attending the Safraen Conference the Empress was quick to comment on the developments: "The First Empire calls upon Mitch Grady and the National Democratic Party to cease their aggressions at once. The People of Rokkenjima have declared twice now their rejection of the ideals of the Republicans, and the history of oppression, tyranny and cultural destruction which lives on in the NDP. I allowed the NDP to form following the conclusion of the Second Patriotic War in the interests of democracy, and to attempt to heal and allow all voices representation in our government. I thought they would use this as an opportunity for reform yet it seems I was mistaken, sadly. "The NDP is hereby granted a window of twenty-four hours to surrender control of government buildings in Northern Arovium to the Imperial Government and abandon this secessionist movement. I realize that the NDP has been losing seats in our Parliament, and that support for the Party has been failing, however usurping democracy in this fashion is a disturbing response to the fundamental problems facing your party. Whereas once Arovium as a whole voted solidly for the NDP we've seen attitudes shift across the Province as evidenced by the north-south divide in Arovium. Just as the Grand Republican Army failed to re-establish the Federal Republic so too will the NDP in dividing Rokkenjima. "Finally the claims of imperialism lack any merit whatsoever and prove how out of touch the NDP has become with reality. In his attempt to reclaim whatever power the NDP is able to in absence of voter support they have resorted to lies and fear. I call on Mitch Grady to work with me in peacefully resolving this situation, to restoring the unity of Rokkenjima without the force of arms. The Federal Republic lost its power to silence the will of the Rokkenjiman People, the Grand Republican Army failed to again cage the spirit of this nation, and your NDP will fail in its efforts to divide the People yet again!" According to reports the NDP was expected to lose further seats in upcoming elections as support for the Party continued to fall across Arovium, its only stronghold in recent elections. Southern Arovium has since shifted towards voting for the Imperialist Party and the Socialist Party, with the last bastions of NDP support residing in Bevelle and Fogshore. Protests have also begun to be reported in the provincial capital of Arovia though no efforts have been made to seize government buildings in the city. Will the SPW be re-ignited, or will the NDP abandon their misguided movement? We'll continue to keep you posted as developments come in. Edited by Beatrice, 22nd May 2014 - 08:51 AM.
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| Beatrice | 27th May 2014 - 08:13 PM Post #80 | |
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Attempt Against Crown Princess Adriana A cowardly attempt against the life of Crown Princess Adriana was made yesterday in a plot Mitch Grady has publicly claimed responsibility for. Under the guise of a gift for the first birthday of the Crown Princess a package was delivered to Pyrena Castle which contained a doll house version of Pyrena Castle. Contained within the doll house was a device which, if activated, would disperse a vaporized form of the deadly G-R3 virus. The mechanism to activate the device would have been activated if the door to the doll house was opened, the device itself being hidden in the 'foundation' of the doll house. The package was sent via Rokkenjima Deliveries, a private package delivery company separate from the Rokkenjiman Mail Service. It was sent days before the Imperial Family departed for the Safraen Conference in East Moreland. The true nature of the 'gift' was discovered upon closer inspection by the Anauša who were following guidelines for all packages delivered to Pyrena Castle. The Chief Steward reported that no lives were harmed as the deadly nature of the gift was discovered in a special receiving area of the castle. "Upon further inspection of the gift Anauša reported the discovery of the vaporization device in the base of the doll house and took immediate action to prevent illness or a loss of life. The Empress has been informed of the incident and is expected to make a statement shortly concerning the attempt. That the Republicans would take aim at a child truly speaks volumes of their character, and I can promise you that Mitch Grady and all responsible for this plot will be brought to justice," the Lord High Steward said in a statement. Mitch Grady released the following claim of responsibility: "As our families live in fear of Imperialist action against the Federal Republic the Imperial Family now know this fear, too. The First Empire has stolen the lives of thousands of our people since the Second Patriotic War, and I took action to rectify that, to show the Empress and her Government a taste of the hell they've brought upon my people! This operation, thus, has not failed for it shows the world that the Empress is not safe in her fortress atop that hill. The People possess the means to strike at her and those she loves at any time of our choosing, just as she may strike at our families any time she wishes to." We'll carry the Statement of the Empress live upon its release. Edited by Beatrice, 27th May 2014 - 08:15 PM.
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| Beatrice | 28th May 2014 - 10:15 PM Post #81 | |
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NDP Support Faltering Across Arovium Support for the National Democratic Party has been failing since the Empress stood beside former General Adam Quincy of the Grand Republican Army in a special Address to the Empire. The former enemies both called on the People of Northern Arovium to cast off the "Republican cancer," a movement which had its foreign origins highlighted by Mr. Quincy as he spoke. Citizens in Arovium have been petitioning the Imperial Government to enroll in a man-hunt for Mitch Grady since the Address aired, many noting what has come to be known as the Dollhouse Plot as a reason for their desire to bring Mitch Grady to justice. Regarding the future of the Republican leader the Empress has declared that he will live the rest of his life in prison. "No punishment I can levy will be greater than that which awaits Mitch Grady," the Empress stated to the RBC. "The People of Northern Arovium are waking up to the lies the Republicans have employed for years, and the moment Mitch Grady decided that my daughter was a valid target marked the final strike against this foreign movement. I thank our allies and international partners for their condemnation of Mitch Grady, and for their support. I will not lose my daughter, nor will I see another drop of Rokkenjiman blood spilled!" Northern Arovium is expected to return to Imperial rule in the coming weeks as support for the NDP continues to fail across the board. Will this finally bring an end to the century of Republican aggression and terrorism? We remain hopeful that it shall. No-Fly Zone Declared over Great Jonathania in Joint Operation A no-fly zone was announced in Great Jonathania earlier today. Operation Stable Skies is a joint operation between Rokkenjima, East Moreland, the UNNA and Lyrosir designed to "place pressure upon both sides to bring the conflict to a swift halt, and to prevent the utilization of air assets which could cause civilian casualties in both the North and South." The Empress also stated that " the joint powers reserve the right to engage in selective targeting of assets which could threaten the operation or cause harm to the People of Great Jonathania should they be deployed in the field," while also stating that the potential targets could be expanded "upon consultation between the Joint Powers." The operation marks the first time the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces have held joint operations with powers outside of the CSTO and the second no-fly zone operation following the operation leading up to the Thematan Liberation. The Empress shared the reasons for the no-fly zone in greater detail with the RBC: "Great Jonathania, as it exists today, is a failed state which lacks a legitimate government. Whilst the North and South fight for political control over Great Jonathania they both neglect the needs of their People and put their future in jeopardy. As no force in Great Jonathania seems interested in ensuring the safety and security of the Jonathanian People the responsibility has fallen upon the Joint Powers to step up and act on their behalf. I strongly urge both sides in the Jonathanian Civil War to cease their hostilities and employ peaceful, diplomatic tools in resolving the differences between their respective factions." Air assets from QAMB were reported to be 'finalizing preparations' for the no-fly zone. Joining in the operation will be a Task Force from the Illumic Fleet, also based out of QAMB, to provide support for the operation. An Opinion Concerning the Illumic Affair Matt West, an intern serving under Lord High Steward Lucius Stanley, shared his views of the Illumic Affair with the RBC: "I believe that King Josiah I has shown the world the influence brinkmanship diplomacy, a brand usually employed by the United Soviet Russia, can have in escalating diplomatic situations beyond their initial scope. In his handling of the first diplomatic crisis of his reign, a crisis largely of his design, he has shown us that he has little regard for international norms and is prepared to move the world to the brink of war to achieve his goals. The Lord High Steward has stated his hopes that the non-aggression pact and Fair Seas Concordat will lead to a more responsible approach to diplomacy from Seaforth, and hopes that the King will do away with such brinkmanship in the future. Grand diplomatic successes do not raise the spectre of a regional war, they avoid it, and I hope the King has learned that lesson well; a repeat of such diplomacy likely will not result in a favourable position for his nation." Regarding Tytorian ascension to the CSTO: "I've read preliminary reports that Tytor has been accepted as a CSTO measure following a formal invitation from Rokkenjima. A valued partner and strong friend of Rokkenjima Tytor has been a member of the Joint Protectorate Sphere following the Corporatist Coup and has noted their desire for membership some months ago. Following the restoration of the legitimate government and order we're glad that membership has finally been extended. Only those ignorant of the situation leading to Tytorian membership in the CSTO would draw lines with the departure of Kazarovia from the alliance. The CSTO remains the single strongest alliance upon Mundus and will continue to hold steadfast to its values as a force for justice, human rights and self-determination in the world." Edited by Beatrice, 28th May 2014 - 10:18 PM.
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| Beatrice | 29th May 2014 - 01:38 PM Post #82 | |
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Northern Arovium Returns to Imperial Rule: Mitch Grady On the Run The Federal Republic of Northern Arovium is no more. Government buildings in Bevelle and Fogshore have been returned to the Imperial Government as political leaders declare that Mitch Grady's 'Federal Republic' has come to an end. Northern Arovium formally rejoined the First Empire earlier today and renounced the Republican movement as supporters continue to flee from the National Democratic Party. Prior to these developments Mitch Grady remained in Bevelle as he attempted to salvage the movement, though the Dollhouse Plot against the Crown Princess and the joint Address seem to have moved the People against him. A manhunt continues for the NDP leader who is now on the run somewhere between Fogshore and Bevelle. Empress Condemns Attack in East Moreland Following news of a terrorist attack in the city of Northfort the Empress has offered her 'unconditional support to Seaforth and East Moreland' in seeing that those responsible are brought to justice. Her statement in full can be viewed below: "The First Empire condemns the horrendous terrorist attack which took place in Northfort in an attack against the King of Seaforth, Josiah I. I pledge the full support of Rokkenjima to both Seaforth and East Moreland in the effort to bring those responsible to justice. I know full well the cowardice which lays in the hearts of those who conducted this brazen attack and know that they'll be found in whatever hole they're undoubtedly now hiding in. I'll be praying for the King's recovery and will answer the call should our assistance be needed." |
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| Beatrice | 31st May 2014 - 03:01 AM Post #83 | |
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United States to Sail the Seas Again  RSS United States in her Glory Days The RSS United States has received a new lease on life thanks to the efforts of the Empress. The ocean liner, which was once considered the crown jewel of the Federal Republic's fleet, was left to rust in port, a status which the Empress has linked to the Federal Republic's treatment of Rokkenjima. "The revitalization of Rokkenjima has been a remarkable saga, even in modern history," the Empress stated, "and the revitalization of the United States will also reflect this. Whereas the vessel was once a symbol of the Federal Republic on the seas it shall enjoy a new life as a symbol of the Rokkenjiman spirit. You can try to break Rokkenjima, you may leave us to rust and rot, but our spirit will be re-awoken and the true strength of our People and Empire will shine throughout the ages." The refit efforts are expected to total at least रᶁ250m as the vessel needs "a complete overhaul" according to officials from Oceania Shipyards. "We built her," a representative said, "and we can return her to the seas in all the glory she deserves. United States shouldn't be seen as a Republican symbol, but as a Rokkenjiman symbol, she's seen the same neglect Rokkenjima experienced under Republican rule and survived. Just as Rokkenjima rose from the ashes so too will the United States!"  RSS United States Today "When the United States returns to the seas I assure you she will remind the world of the true ingenuity of Rokkenjima on the high seas," the Empress stated. "She still holds the Blue Riband for the fastest crossing of the Kyne, and when she returns to the seas she'll remind people from across Mundus what excellency upon the seas truly is! There are plans afoot to see a consistent Rokkenjima-Dartfordia route, and further routes will be added upon her refit. I've also convinced the Emperor to book her for voyages, so while she'll be a passenger liner she'll also serve as an Imperial Yacht at times as well," the Empress added. The return of United States to the seas will mark a proud moment for the Rokkenjiman mercantile fleet, and we at the RBC wish United States a swift recovery from her present state! Edited by Beatrice, 31st May 2014 - 03:04 AM.
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| Beatrice | 3rd June 2014 - 10:37 PM Post #84 | |
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Megitsune Arrives at QAMB  Megitsune's Arrival at Queen Adriana Military Base IRN Megitsune has arrived at her new home, Queen Adriana Military Base, as the newest vessel to join the Illumic Fleet. "Imperial High Command has been impressed by the capabilities and seaworthiness Megitsune has shown and is pleased to see her enter service. She will be able to respond to a variety of situations and I'm pleased that our decision to invest in the Megitsune class as opposed to further Minstrel class vessels is proving correct," High Admiral Cole stated. Members of the Elpidian Navy have been invited aboard Megitsune for what IHC has stated will be "a celebration of our strong ties, specifically a most crucial naval relationship between the First Empire and the Federation." "The recent Illumic Crisis has reminded the world that constant vigilance is required to ensure free and fair access to the worlds international waters. The Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy will be expanding its relationship with fellow Illumic and Great Northern Sea powers to ensure a spirit of cooperation and understanding which will prevent future over-reactions," High Admiral Cole continued. Visits to Achkaerin and East Moreland have been considered by IHC, though further confirmation of these proposals has yet to be received from IHC. Edited by Beatrice, 3rd June 2014 - 10:54 PM.
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| Beatrice | 7th June 2014 - 07:14 AM Post #85 | |
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Rokkenjima Elects First Socialist Prime Minister  Nettie Taylor, New Prime Minister of Rokkenjima For the first time in Rokkenjiman history a Socialist has been elected as Prime Minister of the nation. Nettie Taylor's Socialist Party of Rokkenjima soared in the nations recent elections as the SPR formed a coalition government with the Imperialist Party. While support in the Empire remains high for the Imperialist Party many felt that the direction of the Imperialist Party marked changes from the policies which had brought upon a recovery of Rokkenjima from Republican days. These changes have led to a new Prime Minister and leading party in the Rokkenjiman government which saw Nettie Taylor claim the office of Prime Minister. Upon announcement of her victory Nettie shared the following statement: "While the Imperialist Party and Socialist Party have always shared a mutual connection unique to Rokkenjima the People have spoken loud and clear! Whilst the Imperialist Party is content with the present state of affairs I, and the Socialist Party, have remained steadfast in progressing the interests of the People in Rokkenjiman politics. Over the course of my Administration we will see a continued focus on the Proletariat in Rokkenjiman economics, we'll see education, health care and welfare see increased attentions, and we'll see a true triumph of the People in this government! I must commend the Empress for her social attentions and thank her for being in tune with her People, but there is much more to be done. I am confident that the Empress will be a key partner in this new Government and I declare today that I will not obstruct her or the Emperor as we press forward! They are not our enemies and are most indeed allies in our fight for the common Rokkenjiman! Do not forget that our Empress was raised as a Proletariat, that she was schooled as a Proletariat, that she has been a Proletariat for her entire life and even as Empress has shown herself to be a woman by and for the People! She has not allowed her title to cloud her judgment and because of that the history of our Party's loyalty to the Crown may continue! Our best times are ahead of us! I look forward to the partnership between the SPR and the Empress and know we will accomplish much!" The Empress had the following to say upon return of the election results: "I congratulate Nettie Taylor on her victory in our most recent elections. I see in Nettie a constant and ever progressive partner who will share in my desires for a fair, free and equal Rokkenjima! Whilst the Imperialist Party has remained a steadfast ally I must also call to attention their failures in the recent Arovium Crisis which saw Repuplicans claim Northern Arovium as their own. The People have spoken in deciding that the Socialist Party held their true interests at heart, and I welcome yet another prosperous chapter in Rokkenjiman history with their help and guidance." What will this new era mean for Rokkenjiman politics? As the Imperialist Party have been in power since the reclamation of Rokkenjima from the Republicans what more progress can our nation make? We'll find out in the coming months. Edited by Beatrice, 7th June 2014 - 07:32 AM.
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| Beatrice | 7th June 2014 - 02:07 PM Post #86 | |
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Nettie Taylor Confirms National Tour of Quinntopia A day after her historic victory Nettie Taylor has announced a national tour of Quinntopia: "While the foreign focus of Rokkenjima these days has been focused on the Cross-Straits Union and security concerns I have decided to dedicate my first foreign visit to returning attention to one of Rokkenjima's oldest and most cherished relationships, that with our Quinntopian comrades. We can never forget the assistance Quinntopia provided in rebuilding the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy, the sacrifices they made in the collective efforts of the CSTO in bringing the Second Patriotic War to a swift conclusion, nor the joint progress we've made in several fields, especially through our joint efforts in our naval and space efforts. As I tour Quinntopia I hope to be able to bring home ideas which can be applied here in Rokkenjima, as well as sharing ideas which have worked well in Rokkenjima. With that said I'm excited and eager to embark on this visit!" While speaking the Prime Minister was also asked whether her election will see a change in Rokkenjiman policy towards the United Soviet Russia: "I believe the policies the Empress has pursued in regards to the United Soviet Russia are necessary and will not be moving to change them at this time. Would this question have been asked if Ronove had won another term? We must remove this idea that there is some connection between socialism, communism and the USR, because it is communist in name only. In practice the Soviet regime is a most totalitarian beast which hampers the progress and advancement of its people." |
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| Beatrice | 13th June 2014 - 08:01 PM Post #87 | |
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Free Market Alliance Reformation? With rumours of a reformation of the Free Market Alliance the Imperial Government has approached the development in "a careful manner" according to the Rt. Hon. Lucius Stanley. "The First Empire naturally views this news with a measure of concern. It is our hope that any new incarnation of the Free Market Alliance would avoid the mistakes of the former FMA which led to an unnecessary rise in global tensions while aligning itself to the path of non-violence and diplomacy towards the international community." While the Empress is aware of the developments she has yet to comment, though Charles Foster stated "Right now the focus of the Empress is on bringing the conflict in Great Jonathania to a swift resolution. The price of civil war is often paid by the blood of the innocent, thus she continues to encourage world leaders to increase pressure upon both factions to remove any incentives for continued violence." In related news the Empress has praised international efforts to aid the Jonathanian people, however this praise also came with a warning. "The pressing need for aid to the civilians caught in the crossfire is a call the nations of the world should answer, however, we must also be cautious of those who may have ulterior motives. To cross the line of providing material aid to either faction involved in the civil war would be a most destabilizing development, one which would allow hostilities to continue and perhaps grow. Rokkenjima shall work with the Joint Powers to ensure such an escalation is not possible, and that appropriate pressure is brought upon both the factions and those who may enable further violence in the nation." At this moment the Empress shared that while present intelligence does not indicate such a development it is "a contingency which must be considered." Crown Princess to attend both Rokkenjiman and Dartfordian Schools After questions over the education of the Crown Princess became of keen interest to both the Rokkenjiman and Dartfordian people it seems an answer is finally available. According to the Chief Steward Crown Princess Adriana will be educated in both Rokkenjima and Dartfordia while stating that "further details will be released in the coming days." It is speculated that the Crown Princess will attend Rokkenjiman schools for her primary education, while her secondary education would see her attending Dartfordian schools. Stephanie Cole, author of A Modern Fairy Tale: The Unauthorized Story of the Imperial Couple said that such a move would make sense. "As we all know the Empress was largely educated in a public school setting, a decision made by her parents to instill values in the Empress which we can see have touched nearly every aspect of her policies. I'm confident that she's made a push with Alex for a similar arrangement: she'll likely spend her primary years in Pyrettania Elementary School, then transition over to Lexia Secondary School in Dartfordia, a school made famous after it was revealed Alex had attended it under the pseudonym Oliver McCoy. Upon graduation the choice would naturally be left to her on where she shall attend university." Stephanie also speculated that the choice for a Dartfordian education was, in part, a response to calls that the Imperial Couple weren't as dedicated to Dartfordia. "It's no secret that the Imperial Couple have taken some heat for the allegations of neglect towards Dartfordia and this may be, in part, an answer to those charges. Regardless of any additional motivations I believe that this move is to grant the Crown Princess a well-rounded education which will introduce her to the two cultures she is a part of. This could see the Imperial Couple living in Dartfordia for weeks, perhaps months, at a time as Adriana completes her education." Until further confirmation is available from the Imperial Household Ministry we'll have to wait and see whether Stephanie's speculations prove true. Edited by Beatrice, 13th June 2014 - 08:14 PM.
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| Beatrice | 16th June 2014 - 12:11 AM Post #88 | |
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Venturer Departs QAMB; To Be Replaced by Katenka IRN Venturer departed Queen Adriana Military Base to return to Rokkenjima where she will enter the Imperial Reserve Fleet. Upon her arrival Captain Penrose will be introduced to her new command, IRN Katenka, which is expected to enter service on the 19th. Captain Penrose will use her time in Rokkenjiman waters to finish sea trials of the new vessel, after which she will set sail for QAMB. Her arrival at the base is expected by the 25th of this month.  Katenka on trials in the Rokkenjima Sea "I'm honoured to have the trust of the Empress in commanding the lead ship of the Katenka class. Upon our return to QAMB we plan to conduct further tests, after which Katenka is scheduled for patrol duties in the Northern Krimeon Sea. Upon completion of this initial patrol we're set to transition to the Illumic-Great Northern Sea patrol in-line with the established policy of the Illumic Fleet."
This marks the beginning of the transition from the Celestial Class to the new Katenka class battleship. The RBC wishes Katenka's new Captain and Crew well as they continue their service in the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy! Edited by Beatrice, 16th June 2014 - 12:14 AM.
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| Beatrice | 17th June 2014 - 03:30 PM Post #89 | |
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Same-Sex Marriage, Adoptions Authorized at Imperial Consulates Following a Decree from the Empress same-sex couples in which one partner has Rokkenjiman citizenship will be able to marry at Rokkenjiman consulates. In the same Decree Rokkenjiman consulates will also be empowered to facilitate adoptions for same-sex couples. "The currents of history are against those who seek to uphold a system of discrimination and hatred. Those who attempt to continue such a system will find that they remain on the wrong side of history," the Empress shared with the RBC. "Imperial Law is clear: marriage may be entered into by two consenting adults regardless of race, creed or sexual orientation. I do not feel that these rights should be trumped simply because a Rokkenjiman citizen lives abroad and falls in love. Likewise, I have ordered our consulates to help arrange adoptions for couples living abroad in which one partner is a Rokkenjiman citizen. My Decree will be coming into effect over the next month, and I am fully prepared to engage with foreign leaders regarding global equality efforts," the Empress continued.  The Rainbow flag was reportedly flying alongside the Rokkenjiman Flag at many of the First Empire's consulates, according to foreign correspondents, following the Decree. Faced with potential foreign difficulties the Empress also stated that a 'Plan B' was worked into the Decree. "As Empress of the First Empire I have a duty to defend the rights of Rokkenjiman citizens, and I feel that's a responsibility which transcends borders. I have ordered both the Austrana and the Alonsi to be on-call for the purposes of conducting marriages in cases where the local government obstructs efforts at our consulates. Priestesses and Priests from the Temple of Islyna in Pyrettania, along with civil officials, will be on-board to perform marriage ceremonies." Before the Federal Replublic (Royal Provinces) same-sex marriages were honoured just the same as heterosexual marriages, though as many will remember an era of discrimination and persecution was ushered in under that government. Earlier this year the Empress issued a Decree clarifying the First Empire's stance on same-sex marriage, though this move was seen mostly as a formality. Comments from foreign leaders were not available at press time. |
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| Beatrice | 19th June 2014 - 07:10 AM Post #90 | |
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Empress Announces Changes to Imperial Government The Empress set into motion a plan to reform the Imperial Government earlier today. One of the more immediate changes includes an end to the Provincial System which will take place over the next year. Replacing it will be the Prefecture System which will number seven in total. Pyrena Castle has yet to release greater details of the Empress' plans, but stated that they will "lead to a more free and open Rokkenjima and will present a new era of governance." It was known before that the Empress had plans for shifts in the electoral and legislative areas of the Imperial Government. Following the transition Rokkenjima will consist of seven Prefectures: Arovium Prefecture Austrana Prefecture Ecskana Prefecture Estvua Prefecture Kavania Prefecture Pyrettania Prefecture Rokkenjima Prefecture The Rt. Hon. Lucius Stanley released the following brief: "The announcement of the Prefecture System lays an important part of Rokkenjima's foundation for the future which will work in conjunction with Version 2.5 of the YourVoice.rk platform. The Empress is preparing for a more direct link between herself and the Rokkenjiman People which includes the previously discussed reforms at the local levels of government." What further changes await the Imperial Government? The RBC will continue to keep you updated as the details come in. |
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| Beatrice | 25th June 2014 - 10:42 PM Post #91 | |
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Ashinxao Heavy Industries, SHIplc Announce Update Regarding 'Yama's Messenger' Ashinxao Heavy Industries, in a joint project with Dartfordian firm SHIplc, have announced great strides concerning their electromagnetic railgun program. The EMRG-1k, or Yama's Messenger' as it's been referred to internally, utilizes electromagnetic energy to propel its 23 pound projectile past the Mach 7 mark. Tests upon land have been taking place in both Rokkenjima and Dartfordia in preparation for the first sea trials of the EMRG-1k. These tests are expected to take place within the next two years.  "The EMRG-1k marks the latest advancements of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy and our Dartfordian partners. With a range of 100 miles and its high speed this platform offers our navies several options in remaining ahead of our adversaries at sea while increasing safety and reducing costs at the same time. In the same way that we've improved the accuracy and ability of our naval guns through the Scramjet project so too will we be further improving the guidance capabilities of the EMRG-1k's projectiles. Representatives from both AHI and SHIplc have been working with researchers from Imperial High Command to ensure that such a projectile, the Next Generation Guided Projectile (NGGP), will be ready alongside the EMRG-1k," High Admiral Cole stated on behalf of IHC. IRN To Launch Two Icebreakers The Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy is slated to launch two icebreakers within the next four years, according to Imperial High Command. "The Polaris class icebreaker will be capable of year-long operations in the Great Northern Sea which shall ensure the continued primacy of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy, expand our research capabilities and aid in the transit of our mercantile fleet through the GNS. While the Polaris class will be deployed within four years the Corsac class, the first of which is presently under construction, will be in service in half that time. Depending on the success of the Polaris class a further ship may be considered," High Admiral Cole commented. A further Polaris class icebreaker has been ordered by the Dartfordian Royal Navy and will be delivered after completion of the Rokkenjiman order, according to officials from Oceania Shipyards. Imperial institutions are reportedly excited at the prospects for the exploration opportunities in the Great Northern Sea and will be partnering with the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy for research purposes. Edited by Beatrice, 26th June 2014 - 02:04 AM.
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| Beatrice | 28th June 2014 - 04:46 AM Post #92 | |
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First Empire Responds to Lenira Hotel Bombing DBC In-Depth Coverage of Lenira Hotel Bombing While the Emperor remains in stable, but critical condition the Vicegerent has sprung into action, under orders from the Empress, to ensure the safety and stability of the First Empire. Enacting 'Citadel Protocol Beta' the Vicegerent has assumed full executive power over the First Empire, along with full command of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces. "The Empress has requested that I take on this responsibility as she attends to the Conference on Universal Rights, and it is a responsibility I am honoured to take on," the Vicegerent stated before the press. "The First Empire stands at the side of both Elpidia and Dartfordia, and I can promise you our vengeance will be swift and just." According to Citadel Protocol Beta the Vicegerent is to assume the full powers of the Empress for a period of 72 hours, a period which may be extended by a vote of the Imperial Council upon request of the Vicegerent or a proclamation from the Empress that the emergency has passed. In addition, security has been heightened at points of transit and at so-called 'soft locations', including hotels, across the First Empire. While some have questioned this move as 'an abdication of the duties of the Empress' the Vicegerent has defended her position, stating "The Empress is, understandably, in a clearly emotional state, and I am pleased to exercise Her authority on Her behalf in this time." Security has been increased at Imperial bases abroad, including QAMB in Elpidia, following the invocation of Citadel Protocol Beta. She issued the following statement:
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| Beatrice | 30th June 2014 - 07:54 PM Post #93 | |
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The Illumic Draw-Down The Imperial Rokkenjiman Illumic Fleet is set to draw down from a fleet of 52 vessels to a fleet of 35 vessels, according to Imperial High Command. "With the strength of the Elpidian Navy continuing to increase and the fact that the Illumic Channel has stabilized the mission of the Illumic Fleet has been soundly accomplished. We will still possess a potent ability in the region and will retain our ability to react to situations in Cotf Arayne. This has been a move considered since the construction of our base in Novincia," High Admiral Cole stated. The breakdown of the draw-down is as follows: The Minstrel Class Candide All five Aurora Class Destroyers Seven Resolute Class Frigates Two Steadfast Class Cruisers, as well as two Caroline Class Corvettes The Ruby Class Submarine Intrepid The draw-down is set to occur over a one year period. Public Opinion of Seaforth Improves in Rokkenjima Following a recent statement from King Josiah II of Seaforth and a new tone in relations between Rokkenjima and Seaforth public opinion concerning the Kingdom has improved. 52% of Rokkenjimans reportedly held a favourable view of the Kingdom, up from a low of 19% which was recorded during the height of the crisis. Sources from Pyrena Castle have hinted that the Vicegerent was set to issue a statement supportive of King Josiah II's while calling for cooperation between the nations to address mutual threats. Requests from the RBC for confirmation of these rumours went unanswered at the time of publication. |
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| Beatrice | 1st July 2014 - 10:20 PM Post #94 | |
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RK-74 Replacement To Fly Mid-2015  An artist's concept image of Technology Demonstrator V, released by KAC In line with the modernization efforts of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Air Force (IRAF) the Kashiwa Avionics Corporation designed 'Technology Demonstrator V', a precursor for the RK-74 replacement, is scheduled to begin flight tests within the next two years. TDV is a component of the sixth generation RK-81 'Vigilant' development program. It will be some time before the RK-81 replaces the RK-74, with many expecting the new plane to be ready by 2025 or later. Until then the IRAF has announced its intentions to keep the current fleet of RK-74s flying alongside the RK-80.  The RK-74 Imperatrix will remain in service until at least the mid-2020s "The RK-74 has proven to be a valuable asset to the IRAF and will receive a well-deserved retirement. With the RK-80 already in service the RK-81 will further compliment IRAF's stealth capabilities, continuing to push progress forward," IHC said in a brief statement. With RK-81 under continued development and a hinted upgrade to the H-49 helicopters IHC has shown that it has not forgotten other branches of the armed forces. The past two years have seen a massive rebuilding of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy following the fall of the Federal Republic. Lord High Steward to Pursue Outer Space Treaty Following Conference of Monarchies Following a conference of the worlds monarchies the Rt. Hon. Lucius Stanley has stated that the First Empire will proceed with efforts to enact a comprehensive ban on the militarization of space. "Just as the Fair Seas Concordat ensures the fair and open use of international waters I intend for this treaty to ensure outer space remains a frontier for peaceful exploration. Humanity has developed a multitude of platforms for ending lives, we cannot allow the transformation of space into yet another platform of death," Lucius said while speaking at Pyrettania University. Updates concerning the Conference of Monarchies and the Lord High Steward's space proposals will be brought to you live via RBC News One. |
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| Beatrice | 6th July 2014 - 09:35 AM Post #95 | |
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Fossil Fuels Ban To Enter Force In 2020  Rokkenjimans prepare signs for an early celebration In accordance with Imperial Decree fossil fuels are to be banned in the First Empire on January 1st, 2020. The ban covers coal and petroleum-based fuels while allowing an extension into the 2030s for natural gas. While the Decree mainly covers automobile and aviation fuels it also prohibits power plants from utilizing fossil fuels, although this is largely seen as a formality as the majority of energy in Rokkenjima is produced by hydroelectric, solar, nuclear, geothermal and wind, with ongoing into tidal energy production. Civilian automobiles and aircraft, as well as vehicles utilized by the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces, have seen a continual shift towards biofuels, hydrogen, electric and natural gas energy sources since the early days of the Empress' reign. "Through the efforts of the Imperial Government we've seen a drastic shift in consumer and industrial attitudes towards green energy. With the assistance of this Government we've seen the necessary infrastructure to support what were once termed 'alternative' fuel sources, bringing them into the mainstream," according to Isaac Lewis, President of Inspium Incorporated. "A majority of automotive fuel sold throughout the Empire is sourced from hemp biomass, with camelina biofuels being put to the task of fueling the Empire's aviation fleet. The funding and research of the Imperial Armed Forces have been another driving force behind these efforts, propelling the First Empire to a leading position in green and renewable energy." At this time traditional gasoline and diesel fuels powered 35% of Rokkenjiman vehicles while 'hempoline' powered 43% of vehicles on the road. Hempoline is clearly the favoured fuel by Rokkenjimans, with average costs of the fuel hovering around 75¢ a gallon. "The hemp infrastructure has largely displaced the traditional petroleum-based infrastructure and supply chain which has resulted in dramatic shifts in Rokkenjiman fueling habits. With an Empress immune to the lobbying efforts of big oil we can see just how green possibilities can take flight," Isaac Lewis added.  Despite the green progress this is not a common sight on Rokkenjiman roadways The Decree also contained provisions which allowed classic cars to remain in their original configuration while providing a window for all other gasoline-powered vehicles to either be converted to hempoline by 2025 or be traded in for a compliant vehicle. Meanwhile imports of foreign-made gasoline powered vehicles are to be banned starting in 2017 as they will no longer be in compliance with Imperial law. A provision is included to allow sales of these vehicles to continue should the manufacturer provide a conversion kit along with the vehicle. For vehicles already on the road the Rokkenjiman Energy Agency is presently drawing up guidelines and regulations to ensure the price of conversions to biofuels do not become prohibitively expensive. |
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| Beatrice | 10th July 2014 - 10:55 PM Post #96 | |
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United States Returns to the Seas  Onlookers gathered as United States visits Aldspring before departing for East Moreland RSS United States made a majestic return to the seas as she heads to East Moreland to take part in the Festival of Sail, held in Portworth. Accompanying the United States were the IRN battleships Katenka andValiant, the Megitsune, and the Resolute class frigates Arbiter, Olive Branch, and Spirit of Elpidia. According to statements from Pyrena Castle United States is scheduled to greet a Queen on her way to the Festival, though they have been silent beyond that mysterious statement. "It's best left as a surprise," the Rt. Hon. Lucius Stanley shared with the RBC. The Empress shared a brief statement before her departure to East Moreland: "I'm pleased to see that the day has come for the United States to make her triumphant return to service! After a long and expensive process of reconstruction, along with some tender love and care, the United States has been granted the new lease on life she so certainly deserves. I've been personally involved in her revitalization from day one, often stopping by Oceania Shipyards several times a week to view her progress. Thus it's especially exciting and rewarding to be aboard her for her maiden voyage to a foreign port for the first time in over forty years, and I look forward to her re-establishing the bar for oceanic travel!"  United States at sea to take part in the Festival of Sail RSS United States was built in 1952 for Rokkenjiman Federal Lines in a venture partially funded by the Republican government, and her design allowed conversion to a troop carrier should the need ever present itself. She was withdrawn from service in 1969, after which she was docked in Ashinxao in 1996. Her interiors have been restored to their former glory, as well as conversion work on her engines to allow for green fueling of the vessel. According to Captain Tyler Murphy the performance of United States has been 'exceptional' thus far. Before departing Rokkenjiman waters the United States made stops at Ashinxao, Meadowbrook, Northkeep and Aldspring. Joining the Imperial Family aboard the United States for her voyage were several Rokkenjiman celebrities, along with the former orphans of the Arovium Provincial Orphanage who served as the Empress' Guests of Honour at the Imperial Wedding. All twenty children were adopted in the weeks following the wedding and have been frequent guests of the Empress since. Empress Draws Line at Conference on Universal Rights The Empress has drawn a line at the Conference on Universal Rights regarding LGBT rights, stating that the First Empire would not sign the document should Articles 12 and 13 be excluded from the final draft. While the First Empire would be open to amending Article 12 it has been made clear that its inclusion, as well as that of Article 13, are necessary for the First Empire to sign. Should they be excluded the Empress has declared her intent to extend a form of honourary citizenship to LGBT individuals in an extension of the Consular Marriage and Adoption Program which has operated following a previous Decree allowing Imperial consulates and embassies to wed same-sex couples and assist with adoptions where such options are not available or recognized under local law. The move was widely praised, though the potential for a diplomatic row over this extension of CMAP has been accepted by the Empress. This new form of honorary citizenship would entitle holders the right to marry and seek adoption services at an Imperial consulate or embassy but would confer no other rights of Rokkenjiman citizenship, according to the Empress. Furthermore, local governments would not be required to recognize the marriages, though couples who could be married should the extension become law could apply for full Rokkenjiman citizenship and move to the First Empire. "We've seen hope from other nations in attendance at the Conference, especially Dartfordia, Achkaerin and Elpidia regarding the importance of these rights and will be working closely together as we press forward," an official from Pyrena Castle stated. The positions of East Moreland were also noted as generally supportive, with the First Empire being open to negotiate regarding existing death penalty laws. We'll continue to keep you updated as the Conference continues. Edited by Beatrice, 10th July 2014 - 11:11 PM.
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| Beatrice | 11th July 2014 - 04:42 AM Post #97 | |
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Empress Chides Prince Joshua Regarding CUR Comments The Empress has personally responded to the statements of Prince Joshua of Seaforth following the adjournment of the second day of the Conference on Universal Rights. "It is indeed interesting that a nation that has employed ultimatums and brinkmanship diplomacy, most recently in the Illumic Crisis of their own creation, would feel confident enough to attempt to call out any other nation for diplomatic misconduct, however that is a topic best left for another day. In many areas of the world there are certain rights, under law, which come with marriage that are unattainable to unmarried couples. For example, if Alexander and I were unmarried I would not have the ability to make medical decisions, nor would I be able to visit him past visiting hours. These are just two of the immediate rights that we would lose out on if we were an unmarried couple, and just a couple of the barriers same-sex couples face in nations which do not recognize their right to marry. "To be sure marriage has, at times, been a religious function, however that does not take into account the very real civil nature of marriages in the modern age. A short answer to his questions is yes; in many nations marriage is required for other purposes and carries civil rights and responsibilities as well. "If we're to take into consideration the rights of transsexual people, which to this day are hampered in some nations, one only needs to look at the very real challenges they face on a daily basis even in nations which recognize their rights. Many respected doctors recognize this, and many enlightened governments recognize it as well, though it is clear to me after the statements of the Prince that more work is needed to educate people. There are many studies which show that, much like sexual orientation, transsexualism is not a choice. Hopefully by the end of this Conference we can see more honest discussion which is based upon a desire for ensuring the rights of all, including those currently most vulnerable to discrimination by governments, instead of the grandstanding and political point-scoring we've come to expect from the Kingdom." When asked about the First Empire's insistence on Articles 12 and 13 for Rokkenjima to sign the Declaration the Empress explained her position in-depth: "As with the misconceptions surrounding Articles 12 and 13 the Prince has confused a steadfast commitment to principle with politics and abandonment. We may have no better opportunity than what we have now to strike down the last barriers of basic rights for the global LGBT community than the Conference on Universal Rights; we've come much too far to fail here, to fail today. If Rokkenjima, our allies and independent partners were interested in political scoring we could have simply confined the Conference to CSU nations. No, it is not politics which motivates our cause but genuine concern and dedication to all our peoples. I'm only sorry that the Seaforthian understanding of diplomacy remains misguided, and their focus remains on scoring whatever political points they can for domestic consumption at the expense of progress in forwarding human rights." Requests for further comment from the Lord High Steward and Vicegerent went unanswered. Edited by Beatrice, 11th July 2014 - 04:45 AM.
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| Beatrice | 14th July 2014 - 09:54 PM Post #98 | |
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Vicegerent Meets with King Josiah II After the acceptance of an invitation to Pyrena Castle King Josiah II, of Seaforth, has been in discussions with the Vicegerent. "It's no secret that the diplomatic situation between Rokkenjima and Seaforth is difficult, however it is nowhere near hopeless. The First Empire has had a long history of diplomatic success, finding common ground with all but a select few nations, thus I see little reason why the relationship between our nations cannot be a success as well. I expect that, by the end of his visit, the King and I will come away with a new understanding which will lead the way for a 'reset' in relations between the First Empire and the Kingdom," the Vicegerent shared with the RBC. Since acceptance of the Vicegerent's invitation, which marks the first official visit between the nations, Rokkenjimans have shared the Vicegerent's hopeful attitude towards the visit. In related news, although there have been several tense moments at the Conference for Universal Rights things appear to be back on-track, according to the Empress. "After the adjournment I expect we'll return to the Conference renewed, and we may continue without running in circles. The controversey surrounding Article 12 appears to be fading, as well as a commitment to revisit Article 2.3, thus I believe that compromise has finally been allowed to work. The Declaration is within reach," ending her statement on a high note. |
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| Beatrice | 15th July 2014 - 10:48 PM Post #99 | |
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USR Actions in Themata Raise Prospect for Second Thematan Intervention Due to what the Empress has called "an act of naked imperialism" the First Empire has backed the ultimatum issued by the People's Paradise. Rokkenjima and Quinntopia have been joined by Tytor, Great Jonathania (and the FMA), and Caelidia in condemning the Soviet actions in Themata, while pledging military support for the restoration of a legitimate government in Themata. In a coalition which included the CSTO and international powers Rokkenjima participated in the Thematan Liberation, which saw the overthrow of the previous Corporatist Regime, returning power to the hands of the Thematan people. It is presently unknown if Rokkenjiman troops will need to deploy again, however, Imperial High Command is "preparing for any eventuality," according to a spokesperson for High Admiral Cole.  The Imperial Rokkenjiman Army prepares for potential deployments abroad The Empress released the following brief regarding the developments: "Rokkenjima will work alongside her allies and independent partners to restore the legitimate government of Themata and free the Thematan people from Soviet Imperialism. The brave women and men, including Thematan civilians which died in the first Thematan Liberation, must not be allowed to have died in vain! We've long proclaimed that imperialism and tyranny would not be welcome on the Ardian continent, that the defense of Ardia would be upheld; the Ardian Entente shall address these developments seriously and will respond fully should the United Soviet Russia refuse to heed the 48-hour Ultimatum as put forth by our Quinntopian comrades. Chairman Stalin, remove your forces from Themata, cease your imperialism in Ardia, or you will face the gravest of consequences. "As I stated in my Decree there shall be no second round of negotiations: should the USR fail to heed this Ultimatum the full spectrum of our military, economic and diplomatic assets, along with those of our allies, shall be deployed to liberate Themata. As the USR has shown that it still remains a hostile threat to Ardian interests, as well as being the primary abuser of human rights upon Mundus, the First Empire will push for a resolution which shall see this threat reduced. We cannot have a repeat of the first Thematan Liberation which has left the USR in a position to bring oppression and tyranny back to Ardia. If the USR and Warsaw powers insist upon this course of action they will face the prospect of military action in their own nations. The world has had enough of this!"  Deployments to Cotf Arayne are possible should the USR/Warsaw refuse the Ultimatum Rokkenjiman Security Position 'Strong'; Rumours of Millennial Movements According to an assestment by Imperial High Command the security position of the First Empire remains strong, noting the strength of the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces as well as the capabilities of the Strategic Missile Command. "In addition to our naval capabilities SMC systems such as Valiant Shield, Ma'lia's Spear and the Surefire anti-ballistic missile provide a multi-layered defense, posing great challenges for those who would wish to bring harm to the Rokkenjiman people. Imperial High Command remains confident that airborne and naval threats to Rokkenjima remain negligible." In a related development unidentified sources from the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy have hinted that at least three of the IRN's Millennial Class submarines have "began patrols as mandated by the First Empire's policy of maintaining a first-strike capability." The Millennial are known to carry the Century SLMB to deliver the Mark IV thermobaric warhead, utilizing a FOBS system. While the system was scheduled for retirement as per a CoN agreement it is generally accepted that the Millennial class remains in service, with seven additional submarines rumoured to have been ordered. According to experts, however, the number of additional Millennial submarines, at this point, is likely no greater than two to three. The RBC will continue to bring you the latest on Imperial and Allied military movements, as well as developments concerning renewed tensions on the Ardian continent. |
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| Beatrice | 17th July 2014 - 01:57 AM Post #100 | |
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Dethklok Takes Rokkenjima By Storm  Skwisgaar Skwigelf, William Murderface, Nathan Explosion, Toki Wartooth, and Pickles A new band, managed by none other than Chief Steward of the Imperial Household Ministry Charles Foster Ofdensen, has taken Rokkenjima by storm with the release of their first album, entitled The Dethalbum. The band, fronted by vocalist Nathan Explosion, is presently wrapping up a national tour in support of the album with prospects for a world tour in the works. "Their quick rise as one of Rokkenjima's premier metal bands has been astounding, and there's certainly little holding them back from becoming a global phenomenon," Charles shared with the RBC. "As many know Rokkenjima is unique in that musical pursuits are followed more closely than sports, with many large auditoriums spread throughout the Empire." 'Awaken' quickly rose to the top of the Rokkenjiman charts upon its release *Possible epilepsy warning* Supporting Dethklok in the remaining leg of their national tour is another Rokkenjiman sensation: Babymetal. The Chief Steward confirmed that the Imperial Couple have ordered tickets for the show in Aldspring and would be attending as scheduled despite the recent rise in global tensions. "As with all the shows thus far we're certain that Aldspring will be an entertaining night for all in attendance. I'll be sure to inform you once the tour goes global," he said before returning to a stack of papers upon his desk. Will Dethklok become a global phenomenon as predicted by the Chief Steward? We're certain to find out in the coming weeks and months. |
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^ 4:45 PM Jul 13
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May the force be with you.