Kalistan

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Princess Jennifer refrains from commentary on International Relations
"My Brother can speak for himself," said House Ananto Head
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
February 27, 5737


Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld at Ananto Gem Vault

"Well, as you can see here, we are in the middle of our annual audit of the contents of the Gem Vault," said Her Highness, Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld, as she gave a tour to Alan Rohr of La Moda. "We decided that we are going to start sorting the gems into their own rooms. We have 12 of these kind of hallways, and things are all pretty much always in disarray. They fill one of these crates full of gemstones and then just pile it anywhere. It takes so long to inventory and audit this stuff that by the time we're done for the year, we have to start over again. It's a real pain in the neck sometimes to have just so many gems."

The gemstones belong to House Ananto, and Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld is responsible for knowing what is in here. "We have figures from last year of course, and we know what we've purchased, so its always a game of making sure the numbers match. Rather than going through and counting every single gemstone, the way we did when we had to rebuild the vault after the Eveari earthquake in my Mother's reign, we now more or less weigh each of these crates. It gives us a carat figure rather than like the total number of gems. Its estimated that there are millions in here, all in their crates. All on their shelves. We will probably never know the exact number again."

The sheer value of the gemstones in the Ananto Gem Vault is believed to be in the hundreds of billions of Imperial Pesos. "It's difficult to say what it is right now," said the Princess, "because spot price for each of these stones changes daily. Some stones are clearer than others, some have minute flaws in them or little cracks that you can see with a lens but not with the naked eye. Some are larger, some are smaller. We work on averages anymore, and the last thing we came to, was about 130 Billion Imperial Pesos in stones and precious metals. But that number is very conservative and we add to it annually. The collection itself is utterly priceless, so putting a number on it kind of doesn't really do it justice."

While discussing the vast wealth of the gem horde, the Princess was asked if there was ever any thought given to using some of this wealth to alleviate poverty in the world. "No," said the Princess. "Look: it is not an individual's job to do what governments refuse to do. In Kalistan we believe there is a major role for the state to play in ensuring a good standard of living for the People. Our state works day in and day out to ensure that people have enough to eat to live a healthy life, medical care when they need it, education, a guaranteed job, a home with only a nominal rent payment, and every other thing. House Ananto's responsibility to our society is to pay our taxes. And we do that. We pay every cent we owe, and our Government then spends that money, along with the contributions of all citizens, to ensure that all in Kalistan have a good life. The idea that my Brother could, or should, impoverish himself and his children so people who are far away can eat is ridiculous."

Rohr then asked about humanitarian aid, referring to a comment made by the Finance Minister eariler this month. "The problem people in other nations face are systemic problems," said the Princess. "I am not a theorist, like my mother, but I know well that systemic problems require systemic solutions, or you do not solve anything. You merely put a bandaid on the problem and keep them alive today to starve tomorrow. Wars in other nations are not our fault. Starvation and homelessness in nations in Dovani or Majatra are as much a problem for us as homelessness in Kalistan is for them. We didn't cause any of it, and we can send 500 Million in gold to them and it won't fix the problem. The only thing that will is that they themselves do something about the people who are immiserating them. That's not Kalistan, that is not House Ananto. But its also not the East's responsibility to pick up the slack for chronically poor government in the west. It just is not. We have our own house to maintain and I'd say we are doing a pretty good job doing that. For our people--the people my Brother, the Emperor has a responsibility to."

The Princess waved off additional opportunities to comment on world affairs. "Look: I am not the Sovereign, alright? I am a glorified bookkeeper and the public face of my family. That is all. My Brother can speak for himself. What I am here to do is oversee the audit of this gem vault, and I will be happy to answer any questions regarding that, or anything I am actually responsible for, but if its all the same, I don't think I do my Brother's policy much justice, because it is not my particular skill." She also refused to comment on recent critique in the foreign press over conduct of the Schismatic Crisis. "Kalistan is not perfect, but at least we treat our adversaries with respect and are willing to talk to them to resolve our differences. That's a lot more than can be said for a lot of nations, especially nations that like to run their mouths in foreign newspapers."

@LaModa

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Kalistani News in Brief: Fleets return to ports;
House Ananto announces new Babies for Royal Family; Xsampan Cotton influences fashion
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
April 15, 5737


KRS-124 returns to Bozo River as Imperial Naval Forces complete Standdown

Fleets return to ports
The Imperial Navy has returned to normal operations following the completion of the stand down following the end of the Schismatic Crisis. His Imperial Majesty's Minister of Defense, Col. Calvin Velasco has reported that both the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan and the Empire of Luthori have completed their compliance according to the articles of agreement reached in Gaduridos, and negotiated by the Gaduri King, His Majesty, King Victor de Valorico, and Kalistani ships have returned to their barracks.

"The Alert which governed the operations and leave and liberty of our sailors if fully lifted," said Velasco in a brief news conference. "We will spend the next few months refitting and cleaning our ships, and send any ships that need repairs to either Kaliburg or Bozo River. Once ships are restocked and refitted, they will commence their normal patrols, and standard orders of the day."

Kalistanis have welcomed the return of peace to the region, and have demonstrated their support by increasing consumer spending. At the same time, money is flooding back into securities, as the price of oil futures drops in Kalistani markets. "Security is bad for profitability among nations who live off of oil revenues and little else," said Joan Crystal, a market analyst at the KalSiE. "5736 was a great year for petrostates. Barring some major disruption in supply, or some dramatic increase in demand which is not realistic, 5737 won't be so good for them." Meanwhile, investment money moved toward institutional funds, like Miramar, who have increased investment overseas, especially in Xsampa, major infrastructure related companies like SSI, and nationalized companies like KalMilInCo.

House Ananto announces new Babies for Royal Family
House Ananto has announced that the Princess Consort is once more expecting a child. "The Royal Family will once more welcome a new child into the world, as Her Highness, Princess Consort Casey Leigh-Campbell is expecting her fourth child," said a press release from House Ananto. "The Princess is in good health and happy spirits, and she and the Emperor are looking forward to the new addition to the family." According to the press release, the Consort is about a month into her pregnancy and the pregnancy was confirmed by doctors before the family left Athosia late last month.

The Royal Family already has three children, the Minor Princesses Nicolette and Bonnie, ages 7 and 6 respectively, and the Minor Prince Mark, who was born in December of 5733, and is just a little over 3. House Ananto said the Princess Consort and the Emperor may try to have at least one more child in their thirties, but "They would like to see how this term goes before setting their minds on any additional Children." The release added that this new addition will also come after the birth of Her Highness Princess Victoria Ananto-Rosenfeld's first child which is due in early October. "Princess Victoria said she and her husband, Baron Miguel Coronado-Ruz are excited about their own new addition, and are reportedly happy to contribute to the supply of Anantos in the world. She jokes, but of course, we are also very happy for Vicki as well. 5737 will be a great year for our family, and for all of Terra, with all the new babies entering the world."

Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld, head of House Ananto, remains unmarried, and says she has no intention of marrying or having children, because her role as head of House Ananto is a full time job in and of itself. She has dated but nothing serious ever developed as a result. Her Predecessor, Princess Melanie Ananto-McLinn also never married.

Xsampan Cotton changes fashion tastes
The recent influx of Xsampan Cotton fiber and finished textiles is having an effect on fashion, said Reny Torres of La Moda. "We are seeing a continuation of the move away from couture, definitely, as people are choosing more lightweight clothing, even for the cooler months. The looser, more casual, less tailored look is definitely in style right now, as clothing choices get a little more daring, and a lot of this is being driven by new textile options from Xsampa primarily."

Torres said that Del Valle Casuals had a record Spring buy in February following the Spring Fashion Show in Sulari, where new Cotton blends, with linen and hemp were premiered. "Cotton is more durable than linen, and the cotton linen blends offer that same durability with a light linen finish that people still very much love in this country. But its far lighter weight than wool, which is the standard fiber of winter fashion, and I think people like the softer texture of cotton."

Outer wear is still dominated by wool, but Torres also said there is some moved to a hemp and cotton blend. "Hemp is a heavier weight fiber than cotton, but it is a softer alternative to wool from normal sheep." said Torres. "Previously the softest wools were only for the highest end outerwear, which was out of the price range of normal consumers, but if they want a smoother finish, a cotton hemp blend might be the ticket to get the best of both worlds, the warmer aspects of the hemp with the softer finish of the cotton. Trading with Xsampa's cotton industry is opening up doors for fashion that were previously closed."

Torres added, "Despite the new availability within the price range of day to day consumers of cotton, Linen and wool remain far and away the preferred fiber, with hemp canvas and khaki preferred for work attire. These are areas that cotton will make inroads into in the future, but cotton will never replace homegrown, locally sourced fiber or fabrics completely. Kalistanis are creatures of habit, and while they may own own or two cotton items, which is a lot more than they owned two years ago, the vast majority will still be made of Kalistani made fabrics. So flax, hemp and wool producers aren't rushing to change the system overnight. We expect to see producers add some cotton to their products, but 100% pure cotton items are still far too expensive for day to day consumers to afford, because cotton is till a luxury item in Kalistan."

@TheRepublic

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Kalistanis express enduring support for Royal Family
Support for republicanism slips below 15% for first time
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 20, 5737


Emperor William II Ananto, with his sisters, the Princesses Jennifer and Victoria Ananto-Rosenfeld, in April

A new poll released by University of Suldanor, in Yoshimi, with the help of The Kalistani Republic, finds that the Royal Family currently enjoys one of its highest amounts of support in its history. Support for any amount of republicanism in the Empire has also fallen below 15% for the first time in the poll's history, with only 14.8% expressing any sort of support for constitutional or divided government. The survey, taken between January and April of this year and eliciting the opinions of a random sample of more than 17,000 Kalistanis, giving pollsters a 99% confidence with a 1% margin of error.

"The survey was conducted over three months at the beginning of the year and was conducted through phone interviews, cell phone text pushes, social media, and in person interviews," said the leader of the study, Dr. Greg Humphrey, of the Political Science Department at University of Suldanor. "Our pollsters were undergraduate Students, and the poll was conducted, in association with The Kalistani Republic for a senior graduation requirement. Not only did the students develop the survey instrument for their practicum course in political methodology, but they also conducted the survey and analyzed the results. I was one of their faculty advisors, as was Dr. Denise Summerlynn, who oversees the Regional and Local Government curriculum here."

Dr. Humphrey said there was overwhelming support for the Monarchy and specifically for the Royal Family, across the nation. "Even when you look at the crosstabs, you find near universal support for the Emperor, his wife, and his sisters. This support cuts across all ages, with younger people surprisingly more supportive than older cohorts, though this might be the lingering effects of personal loyalty older respondents feel for the previous monarch that didn't automatically transfer to the current Sovereign. 9 out of 10 Kalistanis strongly support the monarchy, and there is corresponding support for aspects of Imperial Government, such as the Imperial Fiat, permitting factions within the Institutional Party, Ducal Government as laboratories for policy and the centralized administrative state. And almost nobody supports limited government or constitutionalism, or any policy measures like limiting the Emperor, creating additional parties, or a more open economy."

"We gave most of the respondents the opportunity to talk to us about a lot of these questions," said UoS senior Mattie Jimenez-Bretton. "Most people said they had thought about these questions within the last 6 months. We asked if they had the opportunity to change the system in Kalistan, what sort of government would they prefer, and most answered that they did not trust most politicians to govern in the name of the people, and certainly wouldn't prefer that politicians had authority of their own, because that would go to the detriment of the people. They would much rather have one person making the decisions, to get things done as needed than wait for a bunch of political novices to debate the item to death. 'Who else would anyone ever support to rule Kalistan if not an Ananto?' was a frequently asked rhetorical question."

Most respondents said they are familiar with at least one democratic nation, and nearly all of them thought that that nation has a "worse system" than Kalistan. "It takes too long for legislation, you can't really be sure who is actually making the decisions, there is no connection between who wins elections and policy outcomes, democratic governments lie to people, these are all common critiques of democracies among the people who answered the survey," said Jimenez. "It would seem that there is almost no situation that nearly everyone who answered the survey could imagine where society's interests are met at the same time as there is a republican form of government in place. At best, think most people, its only the elites that get their interests met." People in this country just reject the whole idea of republicanism, especially liberal republicanism, constitutionalism, and liberal democracy, most frequently calling that last regime type a "fraud" and those who support it "dupes".

Humphrey said that an interesting trend emerged when the students asked respondents about terrorism which seems to be on the rise in the world. "Well, there seems to be more intense support for the Monarchy in those who happen to be concerned about terrorism." Most said they think a monarchy can keep a nation safer from terror than a democracy, and a monarch can react faster and more decisively to the threat than a democracy. "It's a unity of government function that the students think people are keying in on. In Kalistan, for example, the Emperor says do this, and that's what is done. Other things may be done too, but when the Emperor fiats something, it is the law. There's no debate, there's no need for debate. When all law comes from the breath of a single man, it is quite easy to accomplish something. This counters the advantage of terror groups who can act with the same sort of unity of command. Those same terrorists will take advantage of the inertia of democratic states to hit them again and again and again while the democracies try to figure out how to respond."

"Circling back to support for the royal family, 4 in 5 respondents said that the wealth of the Royal Family is not an issue," said Humphrey. "Some people may take issue with it, but most of those people who have a problem with the very large wealth gap between the Royal Family and the average working person in Kalistan identify as regular attenders in Brethrenist meetings- after noticing this trend, students began asking them to describe their issues, and nearly all those who 'oppose' the Royal Family's wealth cited the Brethrenist testimony of simplicity. They don't have an issue with the wealth so much as the ostentatious display of it while others in the world have nothing. Its more of an optics problem for most of these."

It came as no surprise to the team that the Emperor enjoyed the highest amount of support of the children of Carolina II. "Its mostly because more people don't know a lot about the Princesses," said Jimenez. "But this conclusion is borne out by the fact that the Emperor enjoys an 87% approval rating, but the Princess Consort enjoys an 89% approval rating, and has a slightly larger following among Nationalists than the Emperor does." Carolina herself is similarly universally loved, while other members of the Ananto tribe tend to get more "I don't knows."

"Overall," said Humphrey, "these students learned a very valuable lesson about surveying Kalistanis. You'd think that people would be clamoring for more of a role in their government, that everyone would demand that they should not only have the right to vote, but that those votes should be able to dictate policy. If you only ever listened to the liberals of this world, that would be an easy conclusion to come to. But it is also possible that people do not trust those who ask for power any further than they can throw them. If you ask me to help put you into power so you can make rules for my life, I should be suspicious about your motives. And if I ask you the same thing, you would be justified in feeling that same suspicion. Kalistan has that prevailing attitude toward politicians and political leaders. As long as our government is able to supply the people what they need to live a good life without crushing need being the rule, a scenario we see in a lot of other nations, our government is doing precisely what the people think the government should be doing. They don't want a government that fights themselves over the scraps left after the elites have looted the county."

But the support for the Anantos is personal for most Kalistanis. "People regularly called the Emperor their 'avatar'," said Jimenez. "He represents not only the self conception of the people of this nation, but also their own aspirations. He carries those aspirations of these people, not as individuals, but as members of a society, on his shoulders. He goes forward, the people follow, because he is their leader, in a very personal sense. Despite the wide gap between his wealth and actual power and theirs, they identify with him, and with his family, and love him, I think that's safe to say, as if he was a member of their own family. There is a massive well of support for him, his sisters, his wife, his mother and father and his children in this nation. And when Ananto wins, the people count that as a win for all of us."

@TheRepublic

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House Ananto issues note on Lhanamseng Dynasty
"Pension Continues" despite closer relations with Xsampan Republic
Luxon, Grand Duchy of Ananto
September 1, 5737

Her Highness, Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld said the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan continues to support the Democratic Republic of Xsampa, despite taking a decision to continue pension support of the exiled Lhanamseng Dynasty, especially the current Head of the Xsampan Imperial House, Gephel Lhanamseng, Emperor Pretender of the Dynasty who currently resides in Yingdala.

"House Ananto has long offered its support to the Xsampan Royal family as a matter of monarchical solidarity," said the Princess speaking for House Ananto. "Politically and diplomatically speaking, we maintain our good relations especially around trade and cultural exchange with the Xsampan state, but on a personal level, Kalistan has long supported the exiled Xsampan monarchs, as well as helped to support the diaspora in Kalistan, out of a nominal care for a fellow noble family who has been utterly dispossessed by revolution and republicanism."

The Princess said that there is no conflict between the two positions. "House Ananto's pension amounts to no more than 10 million Imperial Pesos annually, and it is paid directly to House Lhanamseng. The House then pays living expenses for the immediate royals, as well as bills associated with security and so forth. These direct payments are not nearly enough to empower the exiled monarch to do much more than live in peace and comfort."

The statement comes as representatives of House Ananto greets Emperor Gephel Lhanamseng as he tours the Xsampan diaspora. "We can't endorse the Emperor's calls for the end of the Xsampan Republic. The people of that state are the ones to determine the government they desire," said the Princess. "We are no more in the business of making that sort of determination for them than anyone else is making this sort of determination for us." The Royal Family did however greet the exiled Pretender and his entourage at Kaliburg, and hosted him and his retinue at Ananto Estate in Eveari while the Emperor met with various Xsampan monarchist groups in Kalistan.

@TheRepublic

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Kalistani News in Brief: "The Armandos" takes Kalistani TV's top rating spot
Royal Family delivers fourth child; MotoVrassa reports record sales in 5737
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
December 20, 5737


Martin Yellen and Marilyn Kristoff star as Bill and Kristy Armando

"The Armandos" takes Kalistani TV's top rating spot
KRTVN Channel 3 biting sitcom, "The Armandos" is the number one most watched program in Kalistan. The show, which is on its face a sitcom about a vulgar but ultimately sympathetic working class man named Bill Armando and his sarcastic, erudite, but ultimately caring wife Kristi Armando, is actually a very intelligent satire of Kalistan's royal couple. The show's male lead, Martin Yellen says "I think the real challenge of the show, and the real payoff is that its sort of what would they be like in an alternative universe, where there was no monarchy, or at least where they weren't the monarchs. Plus, we have excellent writers and a great supporting cast. It's a wonderful show, and I am lucky to be a part of it."

Marilyn Kristoff, who plays Kristi Armando says, "I think the success of the show really depends on us keeping things really close, but just far enough away that people can see, you know, our subject matter in the show, but also sees something they can relate to as well. Marty is totally not the character: Bill the character has a lot of very outdated opinions of women, foreigners and authority which are typically associated with people in other nations, but he plays it so over the top (on the show) that sometimes it would be easy to think he's really like that out of character. The writers are so good, and he's really game to play a real lout. I think that's where the satire lies." Bill regularly calls his wife "Your Majesty," but in a very mocking sort of way, whenever she tries to speak any reason to him. "Of course, that sort of plays into gender rolls that are common in other countries too."

Kristoff herself, known as the wisecracking, deeply cynical Kristy, is actually a clerk in her Brethrenist Meeting. "No, she's not a shrew by any stretch of the imagination," said Yellen. "She's really a very sweet girl, and a real professional, and they always give her the sharpest lines. It's excellent casting." The show has been praised for its writing, for its satirical portrayal of a stereotypical working family, and for its oblique commentary on the royal family. "We try not to be too apologetic," said Kristoff. "But the reverence for the Royal Family, and for Kalistan's system, is in the dreams that the Armandos have of a better life, and in the get rich quick schemes that Bill constantly hatches, always threatening to completely blow up the family. Like the good things in life are consistently denied to them by things that are totally out of their control. Basically the life of workers in capitalist countries. If the Armandos was actually set in Kalistan, they wouldn't have such a hard life, and they wouldn't be such hard people, but then, nobody would watch."

Royal Family delivers fourth child
His Imperial Majesty, Emperor William II Ananto and Her Highness the Princess Consort Casey Leigh-Campbell welcomed their fourth child last week. Her Highness, the Minor Princess Katherine-Fiona Michelle Ananto-Leigh on December 12, 5737. The new child was born at 3:28am in Kaliburg, and was a healthy girl. The new addition makes three girls and one boy for the Royal Family. "His Imperial Majesty continues the Ananto Tradition of producing more female offspring that males," said Her Highness, Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld, who made the announcement.

Mother and baby are still recovering at Kaliburg Central Hospital, where the Minor Princess was born. "There are not any issues that people need to be concerned about that keep them in the hospital. Casey appreciates the opportunity to recover fully in the hospital with the new baby before bringing her home," said the Princess. "It gives her a little break from all the distractions at home, and allows her to focus on bonding with the new baby. She will return to Cliff House by New Year's Even and the family is expected to remain in Ananto this winter, rather than leaving for Athosia."

MotorVrassa reports record sales in 5737
The Port Swedes auto manufacturer, MotorVrassa (KalSiE: MVS), reported record sales in 5737 of privately owned vehicles. "MotorVrassa sold 310,563 vehicles this year," said MV CEO Isaac Lewis. "This was a record sales year for the company, and represents a 42% market share for the company. Consumers appreciate our designs and our price point, and bought our cars like hotcakes."

Motor Vrassa has long been seen as Kalistan's alternative car company, with MoCo leading the market for a very long time. But recent redesign choices in Port Swedes, as well as newer longer life batteries that MV is able to employ in their lighter designs give the newest vehicle by Motor Vrassa an edge over older designs. "We are still being outsold by MoCo, but our newer vehicles are more efficient and sportier and they appeal to a newer generation of buyers, who have decided to make a switch."

In addition to a record year for domestic sales, Motor Vrassa also increased her overseas sales. "In a world filled with internal combustion engines and gasoline pollution, MV provides an electric alternative. There are very few producers of electronic vehicles in the world, and both Kalistani manufacturers are in an excellent position to supply the demand globally for electrical vehicles. We are all doing our part to reduce global emissions, and I might add, we are doing a fantastic job at it." MotorVrassa suggests next year could be even bigger, noting that orders for new cars are up 3% on the year. Investors rewarded the company in the KalSiE with buying, driving the stock price up by 2.8% in December alone.

@TheRepublic

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Princess of the Empire Delivers Keynote Speech
"Empire of Rights" lays out Kalistani philosophy on political freedom
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
February 1, 5738


Princess of the Empire Carolina Ananto-Connor speaks to High Eveari Society

The Eveari Garden Club's Winter Party is always a Who's Who of Imperial High Society. This highly exclusive engagement tends to welcome members of the Anantonese Peerage and Gentry, along with high profile guests. Of course the press gains access as well. The Party usually features the finest in cuisine cooked by world class chefs, socializing, and entertainment, including music and dancing. It also features a major key note speech by a high profile national orator. This year, the Eveari Garden Club selected the hometown option, and invited Her Highness, Princess of the Empire Carolina Ananto-Connor, who is also the Countess of Eveari County, to deliver the address. Though she is an active member of the Eveari branch of the all-female National Garden Club, her prestige both as the former Empress and a world renowned and respected intellectual made her an obvious choice for the annual event.

This year, the Princess of the Empire gave a speech called "The Empire of Rights," which presented a unifying picture of individual political rights within the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan. Below is the transcript of the Princess' speech:

Hello fellow Peers and Ladies of the Garden Club. If you do not know me, my name is Carolina. I am a long time member of this Garden Club. I know most of you, but would also like to extend a welcome to our new members who have joined since we were last together. You are the future of this excellent and most prestigious organization, and whether you have come from Sulari, or Kaliburg, or even right here in Eveari, I would personally like to greet you as a Sister and a fellow Gardener.

If this is your first, or your fiftieth Winter Party, let me be the first also to apologize for my topic tonight. Usually, the speech includes humor and is entertaining. But I have a bit too much of my grandmother and not enough of my mother, and humor is something that is often kind of difficult for me. I am fun, but I can't remember if anyone has ever called me funny... Ah, you're laughing, well, that's a positive start. I will however, in an effort to keep up the tradition, begin with a joke. They say that when you are nervous and have to make a speech, you should imagine your audience naked. But I think that is wrong. I think I should imagine myself naked... Because if I am standing up here naked, you probably won't be paying any attention to what I'm saying or hear any of it anyway, which means I can say anything I want... (at this point the audience laughed) Oh good. Ok, that one worked... alright... I'll have to remember that one. (applause) Thank you, you are very kind.

I'm not nervous in fact. Tonight, I would like to talk to you about our nation, and the rights of individuals. We all are aware of some of the efforts that conservatives are making around the world to limit the rights of certain groups of people. Without naming those nations, due to a desire to not interfere with things that are, fortunately, above my pay grade, I would just state that some places which Kalistanis had long associated with liberty appear to be rolling back some of those freedoms. And in fact, those rollbacks seem to be rather arbitrary in their nature: There is no cause for these rights to be rolled back. There is no historical catalyst for these rollbacks. The action against certain groups of people seem to be a matter of political ideology, and they verge upon scapegoating of certain groups of people.

It becomes easy to pick on protected groups. Whether it be impoverished people, or ethnic or religious minorities, or people who live a different lifestyle than we do, as a result of genetic predisposition or choice, what it boils down to is that this is a political choice, and not a normative impetrative. In fact, it is a very easy step to take from denying political rights to people to denying them their humanity. And who benefits from this? We could say, those who rely on the politics of exclusion are the ones who benefit. 'Vote for us, because we will hurt your enemies for you. Who are your enemies? We'll be happy to tell you.' It is this sort of attitude that leads to a sort of small minded totalitarianism, especially if the people themselves are not prepared to resist it, but instead, go along with it.

Kalistan is fundamentally a very conservative nation. To a large degree, my family has been responsible for that. I take that responsibility, as does my son and his daughter when it is her turn. We do not like change. We like things to stay as they are, because that gives people security. It helps us mitigate contingency as well as we are able. Nobody would ever claim that we are a liberal nation at any rate. Kalistan is the definition of illiberal, and I would add, I don't think anyone has a problem with that, within our nation at least. Plenty outside of our nation do, but their opinions on the question have never mattered much within our nation.

And yet: We are a conservative nation based on civil liberty. And I can add, within a fairly but not infinitely broad scope, we are a nation based on civil rights. We are, you may say, an Empire of Rights. There are many things that we are able to guarantee the people, and these rights are fundamental. They are political rights to be sure: In order to have a healthy society, people need not only the freedom to do things within their society, but they also need protections against oppressive forces telling them that if they believe, or act, a specific way, then their rights, and indeed, their humanity is forfeit, regardless of the justice of the laws proscribing such action--and to be clear here, I am certainly not saying there are not unjust laws: We absolutely know there are unjust laws. People know within our nation that they are free to believe, and to act in a way that accords them their own nature, and as long as they do not limit the rights of others to the same, they have freedom to act as they will.

Let's take a question like transgender identity. What would our society gain by our Emperor's Government limiting the freedoms of transgendered individuals just living? More importantly, how does one person's transgender identity affect the identity of another person at all? Like in any way? Does a transgendered female standing next to me make me somehow less female? Or should we be so totalitarian in our way of thinking that we cannot permit others to see themselves as they do? Should we not recognize the humanity in that person, as we ourselves demand that recognition from others for ourselves?

Well, His Imperial Majesty's Government has not opined on the question. My own government also refrained from making comment on that question. Because how one sees themselves is not necessarily a political question, or rather we should say, it is outside the realm of business. Our rights are attached to the person, not the identity. If a person comes to some self realization later in their life and realizes that they are transgendered, does that mean they should surrender their rights? The rights they have enjoyed without question their entire lives? The rights that makes them just like me, a citizen of this great nation and a subject of His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor William II Ananto? Why should it?

Why should a same sex couple choosing to live with one another and opting to adopt a child which was given up for some reason or another by their parents be subject to any scrutiny they wouldn't be if they were an opposite sex couple? The right to adopt is a political right. It has nothing to do with their sexual preferences. Why would it? And what business is it of His Imperial Majesty's Government to make any sort of comment on it? Why should our Government make any sort of comment on one's gender identity, or what is a marriage? Or what is a family? These are areas that are out of bounds for public attention in our Empire of Rights.

The Rights of the People are their rights by virtue of their being people. I believe those interested in limiting rights are those who believe that rights are a precious commodity: That extension of rights to one group must necessarily limit the rights for another. They do not have a problem with that, not at least as much as they are interested in determining which group gets the rights and which lose them. They are, therefore making a political choice which, at its logical extreme asks "who has the right to exist at liberty in society, and who deserves extinction?"

Kalistan is an Empire of Rights because we do not assert that rights are a zero-sum commodity. Rights should be expanded to all of society. Rights are meant to be protected against erosion, whether that erosion comes from a menace nearby or a government above you. The right to vote, the right to a trial by jury, the right to the means of survival, the right to a relatively equal share of the wealth of our society. These are the methods by which men and women more fully realize themselves in our society as civic individuals. With that is the right to love who one likes, and the right to express one's gender identity. Rights are expansive. They should apply the same for all, or they are cheapened for us all.

I'll say that again. Limiting the rights of one groups cheapens the rights for all those who enjoy those rights—if we assume rights are valuable because they allow individuals to exist more fully in our society, that is. We would not tolerate giving certain groups of people more privileges in our society than we have, why should we expect them to accept fewer privileges in our society than we have? Would any of us seriously advocate the exclusion of rights for anyone else so that our own rights feel more valuable?

I can answer that by looking at the question from the other side. If we take the opposing argument, expressed by these individuals seriously, the right is only of some value if someone can be excluded from it. But there is a problem with this logic. If you make a simple logical extension, this means the right is, in and of itself, not inherently valuable. It's only value lies in exclusion. Well, what is the point of pursuing rights for anyone then? Wouldn't it make sense to exclude as many people from those rights as you can, if your value is based on exclusion?

I have to acknowledge: As your Empress, when I served, I did stand on privilege. I still have privilege among you. So the irony of me talking about universal basic human rights is not entirely lost on me. But I would say also, what better champion could you find for the cause of these basic civil rights, which go to make our society better only to the extent that we as a society protect them for as many people as we possibly can than myself? I may be among the most highly privileged members of this society, yet my civil rights are exactly the same, by virtue of my humanity as anyone sitting in this room, indeed, any group or person in this Empire.

Kalistan is a conservative nation. Nobody can doubt this. But that conservatism conserves the legitimate and full rights of our citizenry against parochial, narrowminded beliefs being propagated for political gain by a segment of the society. We protect our rights and fiercely in this nation, against all comers, whether that be a foreign power aimed at forcing us to kneel to some external ideological order as the Liberals would, or our own government whose members seem to think sacrificing a small group of us for the benefit of a bare majority is not only a just idea but a profitable one as well. There are clearly some rights that the Emperor does not permit his people in this nation: Those rights primarily have to do with acts that will divide the society against itself and include specific political and economic privileges that specific sectors of society enjoy elsewhere that allows them to exploit their fellow citizens for their own personal and political gain. But protecting the rights of people involves curbing opportunities to act upon those base impulses in society.

For all legitimate civil rights, the People of this Empire will find no fiercer defender than the Emperor and his Government. From day one we are trained in, and then we reinforce ourselves, the notion that our society is healthy to the degree that civil rights and liberties are the cornerstone of the public space in this Empire. Without them, we are a tyranny. If His Imperial Majesty were to use his considerable authority and fiat to reduce the rights of one person, the rights he has guaranteed to them, Kalistan would descend into a tyranny. As it is right now, nobody can legitimately charge us with tyranny because the rights of the people are always in his mind as the foundation of his fiat. The people may not have the right to change our government as they do in a democracy, but what they receive in exchange is virulent and tenacious defense of their rights, to live as they wish, to be with who they wish, and to see themselves as they wish.

The same rights you enjoy daily. The same right I take for granted. The same rights His Imperial Majesty, and his Government, protect steadfastly and resolutely. And no bare majority, conservative or otherwise, has the right to determine that these rights may be dispensed with, on any level. Because Kalistan is indeed an Empire of Rights. I would say: We are an empire of Right. In all senses of that word. And it is a matter that I am particularly proud of. You should be too. Thank you Ladies of the Garden Club for allowing me to share my comments with you today and I wish you a Happy and pleasurable rest of your Winter."

The Princess of the Empire was given a standing ovation by those present at the Party, and she later donated a Million Imperial pesos to the work of the Eveari Garden Club, both in Eveari and in Ananto, encouraging those present to similarly open their pocketbooks and follow suit. Nearly everyone there treated the invitation as if it were still imperial fiat.

@LaModa

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Imperial Navy releases plan for division of Bentasur
Anantonese Coast to be returned to full Gaduri Control by 5741
Bentasur Naval Base, Kingdom of Gaduridos
September 7, 5738


Imperial Navy prepares for next step in return of Gaduri Sovereignty over Bentasur

His Imperial Majesty's Imperial Navy released plans for the next phase of Bentasur's return to full Gaduri sovereignty this week with the release of the division of the Bentasur Naval Base into East and West Camps. The area that will be designated as East Camp will be handed over to Gaduridos for full administration by the end of 5741.

"The Anantonese Coast facilities are extra capacity maintained in expectation of hosting other fleets including the Gaduri fleet which was never stood up while Gaduridos was under Imperial control," said Admiral Jane Quasney, who is the base Commander at Bentasur. "This base has undergone significant improvements in the more than 150 years that Kalistan has controlled it, from a Canrillais outpost to its current form which hosts not only the 3rd Imperial Fleet, but also a wing of Naval Air at the Naval Air Staton and a Kalistani supply Regiment that maintains the Naval Logistics Center. These facilities and the Radar facility will remain under the Imperial Flag, but following the transfer of East camp to Gaduridos, we will begin working toward the ultimate goal of signing the SOFA, and when the Gaduri Navy is fully stood up, we will then begin the process of returning sovereignty of the base back to its rightful owners in Gaduridos."

The Admiral stressed that the naval mission in Bentasur will not change. "Kalistan intends to go, at that point, from owner to renter. As per our initial agreements with His Majesty's Government, the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan will retain exclusive lease over what will become referred to as West Camp. The lease may be revoked upon agreement, and Kalistan and Gaduridos will need to work out the terms of the lease payments, whether it be a direct payment, or the adoption of technical and material assistance obligations to the Gaduri Navy and security assistance for Gaduridos payed for through the Naval Budget. But there will be terms, and when those terms are agreed to, the Gaduri Flag will once more fly over Bentasur, next to the Imperial Standard, and the land will be formally recognized as Gaduri National territory, under Gaduri law.

The division will allow Gaduri to formally begin independent Naval operations with several new corvettes coming off the lines in Kaliburg and Ciudad de Gadur next year, along with some surplus green water patrol craft. "The Gaduri Navy will want to begin building new bases to host their fleet as their mission expands," said Admiral Quasney. "We know that the Government of Gaduridos prioritizes social welfare and economic development, but our arrangement hinges on Gaduridos being able to pick up some of the security responsibilities in the Schismatic Sea and in the Central Anantonese. We are confident that they will, but as we expect the pace to be relatively slow so they don't bankrupt themselves, we also agreed that it was imperative that the 3rd Fleet remain at Bentasur. The return of sovereignty over the whole base is a political necessity for the Gaduri Government which we respect and appreciate and wish to facilitate when the Gaduris are ready."

The Admiral said that the handover of East Camp, on the Ocean side of the base will take a few years because much of that area has been underutilized for a very long time. "We have to make sure these buildings are all ready for the Gaduris to move in," said Quasney. "The last thing we want to do is hand them buildings that are not fit to occupy." the Admiral also noted that they needed to construct a fenceline between East and West Camps. "This will involve rerouting some roads and such, as well as moving some activities from many of the buildings over there that we still do occupy and maintain, mainly in the Naval Logistics Center near the Schismatic dockyards."

Over all the division of the Camp is expected to cost the Navy more than K$18 Million Pesos to complete. "We will save costs by utilizing our own staff, as well as bringing down NSPers to help the Navy get East Camp ready for Gaduridos." The Admiral says she looks forward to continuing to cooperate with Gaduri Naval staff in the transition, and says the Gaduri Naval staff assigned to Kalistani ships in the 3rd Imperial Fleet are progressing with their training, and some even served on Kalistani ships during the Schismatic Crisis, giving them valuable experience in a period of heightened tension and alert.

Work on East Camp will begin in October and carry on through 5741.

@TheRepublic

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The Imperial Residence at Wilson Beach
Cliff House prepares to undergo renovation
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
March 31, 5739


Cliff House, and Cliff Offices have served the Royal Family for nearly 120 years

The home of His Imperial Majesty, William II Ananto and Her Highness, the Princess Consort Casey Leigh-Campbell, officially titled The Imperial Residence at Wilson Beach, but more commonly known as Cliff House, is due for renovation. The home, officially located in the Barony of Wilson at the far southwestern tip of Kaliburg, will be thoroughly refurbished and updates to take advantage of modern efficiencies. The renovations will begin in April and will carry on, weather permitting, as late into the year as possible.

"With a growing family, the Emperor and Consort need to convert some guest rooms into actual bedrooms for the children," said Her Highness, Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld, in her role as Head of House Ananto. "The family has also decided to downsize the kitchen and dining room, and improve the staff Quarters, which are located on the property. Over all the Mansion will be reconfigured to accommodate the family in comfort, to allow the Emperor and Consort to host multiple guests in East Wing, and to continue to serve the Anantos for the next six generations."

A new power generation unit will be constructed down the road near the Staff Quarters which will feature solar and wind generators, Wilson Beach will be expanded to permit the family a private swimming and sunbathing beach and the system of trails on the lower slopes will be improved and expanded between Cliff House and Wilson Bridge. Wilson Hill will remain undeveloped and open to residents of the Capital for outdoor recreation, but public access to Cliff House will remain limited.

"The Emperor has opted not to renovate Cliff Offices," said the Princess. "The offices still serve him well as his personal office, as well as the offices of his Personal Assistant and Secretary. The Princess Consort's personal staff is also located at Cliff Offices, and the Chancellor of the Empire also maintains an office in Cliff Offices. These offices may be remodeled at some future date, but for now they will remain in tact." The Princess said the Royal Family will take up residence at Ananto Estate in Eveari until the remodeling is finished. "His Imperial Majesty and Her Majesty the Princess Consort are expected back from Athosia this week and will proceed directly to Eveari rather than coming home. They will have access to all personal belongings during the remodeling and the Emperor will still schedule to work in Kaliburg three days a week, while taking office space in Eveari for the other two."

The Princess said that the Royal Family is excited about the renovations. "The home is almost an historic monument by now," said Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld. "It was salvaged by the His Imperial Majesty, Fredrick III Ananto, who was Empress Mary's father. Before he owned it, it had been abandoned by the previous owner when the Emperor purchased the hill to preserve as a park, and it was one of the few homes on the hill that was not demolished during the transition. It survived the chemical attacks in Kaliburg, while Wilson House, the previous Royal Residence did not, and so the Emperor rehabilitated this house, made it a home for his family, and moved in in 5620. Four Sovereigns of Ananto and Kalistan have been raised in this house, and it is the house I myself also called home. And now with the Emperor and Princess Consort's children living here it will eventually become the home of yet another Ananto Empress in time."

The renovations are expected to be completed by mid 5740, at which point, the Emperor and Princess Consort, along with the Minor Princelings will return to Kaliburg to their new home which is designed to accommodate their larger family. "Its our home that this house continues to serve our family for many more generations to come. To do that, of course, the home requires regular maintenance and periodic remodeling, to better suit the needs and tastes of its occupants." The Princess said that the renovations are expected to cost the Royal House more than K$2 Million Imperial Pesos.

@LaModa

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Kalistani News in Brief: Del Valle leans heavily into Cotton;
House Ananto launches major service Grant; More Gaduri ships come off Line in Kaliburg
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
May 30, 5739


Xia Martinez, lead model for Del Valle Casuals, shows off new summer line in Sulari last March

Del Valle Leans heavily into Cotton
Del Valle Casuals has released their new summer line to clothing stores across the nation. And for the first time, cotton represents a major part of the fashion line's textile source. "Since investing in Xsampan cotton, Del Valle has made a real effort to begin using the textile and working to popularize it across the nation," said Donna Reynolds, who is a buyer for the fashion house's Casuals division. "And it is really enjoying something of a moment in Kalistani fashion, as more people begin utilizing the fabric. Who would have thought of cotton as a cutting edge textile, but in Kalistan, which has to date primarily worn linen and hemp canvas cloth in the summer for a very long time, cotton is a bit of a novelty that people are starting to buy more of."

In fact, says Reynolds, Del Valle Casuals has made a serious bet on cotton, basing its entire summer on 100% cotton and 50-50 cotton linen blend fabrics. The line was previewed for buyers and fashion writers during last March's Sulari Fashion Week, where Del Valle Casuals not only unveiled its all cotton women's fashions, but also introduced the Sulari fashion world to its newest model, Kauffman Agency's Xia Martinez, who hails from Yoshimi. "Xia has signed with Del Valle to be the face of its brand for the next three years, and we are thrilled to have her modeling our clothes. She has the body of a surfer mixed with a classic movie bombshell and the presence of a goddess. And, since Xia is a little older (Martinez is 33), she is showing that the 20-somethings aren't the only ones who get to have all the fun. Del Valle Casuals is thrilled to have Xia modeling our clothes. And to be honest, they look great on her."

The bet appears to be paying off as Del Valle Casuals reported that May was its most profitable month in 4 years, as people are already beginning to order either House direct, or are flooding into outlet stores to snatch up the summer outfits from Del Valle Casuals. Casa Del Valle (KalSiE: CDV), which is Del Valle Casuals' parent company, reported stock price increases of more than 2 percent last month, in a time of year which is usually a bit of the doldrums for the company. "Cotton is paying off for Del Valle" said Reynolds. "Its still not outselling Linen, of which there appears to be an inexhaustible demand. But owning cotton is still viewed as a bit of a status symbol for Sulari glitterati, and its even finding its way to Kaliburg, so the Company's choice to base its summer line on the high thread count cotton seems to have been an excellent one."

House Ananto Launches Major Service Grant
Her Highness, Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld announced earlier this week that House Ananto will be launching a new major grant designed to encourage continuing public service. "We have decided to form a new endowment, called the National Service Endowment, to give civil society organizations the opportunity to actually form plans for community or regional improvement that perhaps the National Assembly hasn't thought of, but which need to be done anyway," said the Princess, who serves as Director of House Ananto. "Civil Society can put together small to medium projects which will have an impact on their communities and which have an ongoing commitment for at least five years. The Civil Society organization may then apply for funding from the Endowment to get the program funded. And then they can run it."

The goal is to allow civil service organizations across the nation to pitch in to make the nation better. "This can be any program you think your community needs. Whether it is helping out with early childhood literacy initiatives, or opening a pet clinic, or trail improvement and maintenance, or even something like voter education, House Ananto wants to help the Citizens of this nation make their communities better. Civil Society organizations tend to communicate with the people directly and are great at organization and mobilization of their members. So it makes sense to work with them on local projects which may not catch the eye of the Government or the ear of the Emperor."

The Princess said the endowment will be opened with more than $200 million Imperial Pesos supplied directly by the Royal Family. "Awards will be made from the interests that can be drawn off the endowment." House Ananto will appoint a Board of Directors to administer the fund, and will charge it to create guidelines and procedures for distribution and ongoing support of the funds. "We would like to prioritize those who are committed to longer term projects, over one-off projects. Applicants should expect to present a full plan for the project, including community impact data and a budget for the program. Regular reporting of performance will also be a part of the grant." The Princess said it will be open only to Kalsitani non-profit civil society, charitable service, and civic volunteerism organizations and organized National Clubs. All money will be directed toward service provision, but 10% may be used to fund overhead. Privately generated matching funds would be encouraged.

More Gaduri ships come off Line in Kaliburg
As the Gaduri Navy continues to stand up, more ships are rolling out of Kaliburg National Shipyards in Kaliburg. KALMILINCO spokesman Trevor Lawton said workers are on schedule. "We are producing the smaller ships first, which are both the cheapest, as well as easiest to build here in Kalistan. We can usually lay in and fully construct Kalsitan's designs in 1-2 years, and we have all 6 dry docks producing ships day and night, three full shifts a day. Following construction, the ships go through another six months of quality control and armament before being sent to Gaduridos."

Lawton said Kalistan could work faster with more steel from Gaduridos. "Currently we aren't sure whether they are stepping up their steel production to supply us with what we need. But Kalistani ships are built of lighter carbon fiber steel that is armor plated with sheet metal. The sheet metal is what is more or less trickling in right now, though the National Foundry in Sulari is keeping up with our orders." Lawton said if Kalistan knew that Gaduridos would increase its supply of steel to help offset the cost of the ships, they could pick up the pace even more.

"Production will get much more intensive as we move up in class of ship. The frigates and destroyers will be huge projects for the National Shipyards, and will take a very long time, which is why it is important to get Gaduri steel into Sulari to be processed into parts we will used here at Kaliburg sooner rather than later." Lawton said the building has given KALMILINCO the ability to hire more than 2000 additional tradesmen in Kaliburg, while the National Foundry reports that they have hired an additional 750 workers, and the National Naval Artillery Center at Reynolds, which makes the armaments have brought on 350 more workers. "This is a major multi-year project between Kalistan and Gaduridos, and is aimed at helping Gaduridos stand up its navy."

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Alvarez declined request to form Cadet Branch
House Ananto: "His Imperial Majesty cannot permit independent political authority"
Luxon, Grand Duchy of Ananto
July 12, 5739


Duchess Maria Alvarez-Jarvis, of Suldanor, fails in attempt to get approval for Cadet branch from Lady Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld

House Ananto announced today that the Alvarez family will be denied in their attempt to form a cadet branch of House Ananto. Ostensibly, the cadet branch would have been called House Ananto-Alvarez, and would have allowed the Alvarez family to formally incorporate under the same terms as House Ananto. The family is directly descended from Nicolette I Ananto, and represents the remainder of the 4th Ananto Dynasty, known in Kalistan as the "Gaduri Dynasty" which lost control of Ananto following the death of the last Gaduri monarch, Fredrick II Ananto. They were recognized as a family unit and were later granted the Grand Duchy of Kalistan and the Duchy of Suldanor when Ducal titles became hereditary, but have always needed to manage their own affairs without a formal cadet designation.

Her Highness Princess Jennifer Ananto-Rosenfeld, Head of House Ananto, said "Acting in consultation with His Imperial Majesty, Emperor William II Ananto, House Ananto made the decision to formally reject the proposal by the Alvarez' of Suldanor to create Ananto-Alvarez as a cadet branch of the main Ananto line. The proposal was difficult enough, but could have been made somewhat easier if there was a justification for it. But as the Alvarez line in Baltusia has gone completely extinct, and there is no Alvarez serving as a monarch currently anywhere in Terra, a formal cadet House is not justified at this time. His Imperial Majesty simply cannot permit independent political authority that an autonomous cadet branch would afford the political masters of Suladnor. The Alvarez' and their descendants will remain faithful subjects of His Imperial Majesty in perpetuity."

Her Excellency, Duchess Maria Alvarez-Jarvis, who is the hereditary Duchess of Suldanor and by virtue of that title also the Grand Duchess of Kalistan, serves as His Imperial Majesty's Viceroy in Kalistan. "Lady Alvarez has significant political authority in her current position as Duchess of Suldanor, and an autonomous House would only further aggrandize her authority at the expense of the Main Branch," said Lady Jennifer. "I have advised His Imperial Majesty, in my role as head of our Family, to make some other sort of compensation to Her Excellency that would be personally beneficial to the Alvarez family in appreciation for their decades of service to the Crown. His Imperial Majesty agreed with the proposal, but the terms of the consolation have yet to be discussed with Lady Alvarez."

The Duchess Maria Alvarez-Jarvis, however was disappointed, but resigned to the rejection of the bid. "I expected this, to be honest," said Duchess Alvarez. "The Royal House knows who we are and where we came from. But Alvarez has ever been Ananto's staunchest defenders and main supporters, and I dare say, without the Alvarez family in Suldanor, the Duchy might be even more pro-democrat than it is today. Plus our line has supplied kings and queens to other royal families. I think most of all, I would just like more acknowledgement for our family's contributions to the State than we are getting. Alvarez' are descended directly from Nicolette the Great, while the Kundrati Anantos are descended from Carolina I Ananto. Surely this distinction entitles us to some consideration as to our status."

Lady Jennifer dismissed these statements. "There is a lot that Her Excellency is correct about, and I do believe His Imperial Majesty is well aware of our respective ancestries. However, this does not mean that he needs to permit power bases independent from his own to form anywhere within his realm. Because whether one's ancestor is Nicolette or Carolina, William II Ananto is now the Emperor, and as such has the fiat. And Kalistan, the entire Grand Duchy of Kalistan is entitled to Her Excellency, the Duchess of Suldanor, but she still kneels before the Emperor and defers to his will in all matters. Granting her the ability to subvert that correct relationship would be an unforced error. So His Imperial Majesty will not accede to that request."

Some of the conciliations that Lady Jennifer said the Emperor would consider in lieu of an independent cadet branch are hereditary title to the counties of Suldanor for the Alvarez family, more control over the measures of the Ducal Council for the Duchess, and an annual pension for the Hereditary Duke or Duchess of Suldanor paid by House Ananto. "Lady Alvarez is also welcomed to incorporate her own businesses within Suldanor to act in the same way that Miramar acts" said the Princess. "The question is not economic but political, and House Ananto supports Lady Alvarez investing in the Kalistani economy for the benefit of her and His Imperial Majesty's subjects. And Alvarez already enjoys the privileges of Nobility up to the third descended generation. Just that one thing we cannot give in on."

Duchess Alvarez said she intended to go to Eveari to plead the case for House Ananto-Alvarez personally. "House Ananto has issued the ruling, but perhaps the Emperor will see reason if I go and speak to my cousin directly," said Duchess Maria Alvarez-Jarvis. "He is known to be a reasonable man, and perhaps I may prevail upon him using the proper channels to either allow me to organize my family into an independent cadet house, or work out some conciliation that will allow the Alvarez' to be afforded the dignity due to us as sons and daughters of Nicolette I Ananto."

@TheRepublic