Kalistan

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http://forum.particracy.net/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=92

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Empress returns to Kaliburg

Announces new Orientation in Kalistani Politics

Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto

December 19, 5558

Empress Pavlina I Ananto following high level Institutionalist Party Member

Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Pavlina I Ananto returned to Kaliburg this week, and spent much of the early part of the week getting resettled in the home she and the late Emperor Fredrick I Ananto shared before his untimely demise.  The move in was punctuated by high level meetings with her Government and Institutional Party Leadership.  After three days of closed door meetings, the Empress and the acting Chancellor of the Empire left the National Assembly.  As the Empress walked past a silent and reverent throng of reporters to a waiting black limousine, Dame DuMont took a podium in the rain and delivered a prepared statement:

"First, it is incumbent upon me to make a few brief announcements following our, rather lengthy meetings with Her Imperial Majesty, the Empress Pavlina I Ananto.  It is Her Imperial Majesty's Command that, despite any law we have notwithstanding, those who participated in the Insurrection who have not already been transferred to King's Island shall receive a full commutation of the remainder of their sentences, and are to return to their home and their work in all haste.  It is not Her Imperial Majesty's desire to punish those yearning for freedom, and who were tricked by fascist demagogues into following the siren call of fake liberalism, for voicing their legitimate demands.  Her Imperial Majesty has added that the correct venue for citizen participation is within the Free Cities.  She will work with the Peers to develop democratic advisory boards at the County and Ducal level as well, so that citizens may have input into the policies that govern their lives.  But she has also decreed that there will be no changes at the national level as far as voters are concerned.

"Despite her mercy, Her Imperial Majesty has also stated that any further civil disturbances will be met with the full force of the Kalistani Regular forces.  She has stated that there are appropriate and legitimate methods for redress of grievance in this Empire:  The Court System, for example, remains independent.  But taking up arms against the state shall be treated as an act of rebellion, and any further acts of rebellion will be crushed swiftly and with extreme prejudice. 

"Her Imperial Majesty has also made it my duty to inform you all that the leadership of the Institutional Party has been fired from their positions.  She has required the resignation of 20 additional deputies whose loyalty to the Institution of the Empire was... not immediately demonstrated, and shall call for new elections to replace those individuals.  She has called the Institutional Party a cradle of insurrection, and said the men and women of this Party who I have served with my entire life, coddled those who ultimately caused the death of her husband, the Emperor of Kalistan and Ananto.  In addition to the deputies who have been ordered to resign, the Entire Government has been given the opportunity to either resign immediately, or to recommit to the Service of the People of this Empire.  She was very specific on what that meant.  All but myself, Her Minister of Finance and her Minister of Defense have opted to resign, and she will name a new government following new Elections.  

"The Institutional Militia of Kalistan is to be disbanded, as it had a hand in the Insurgency, and within six months, a new Militia is to be reformed, to align with national security needs, and composed only of loyal Kalistani Citizens.  Organizational changes will be made to the Militia structure to ensure there is political oversight of the reformation, and it is expected that the IBSI will play a role.

"Her Imperial Majesty has thanked Dame Ontiveros for her long years of service, and has received her resignation for health reasons.  Dame Ontiveros says she can no longer adequately and energetically serve the Empress in the position of Chancellor of the Empire.  Dame Ontiveros nominated me to replace her, and the Empress informed her that I will return to Foreign Affairs, where I am sorely needed, as soon as a new Government is in place.  Meanwhile I am to continue in the position of Chancellor of the Empire.

"While these changes are monumental in and of themselves, Her Imperial Majesty has also informed us that the Ministry of Defense will be conducting a review of Kalistan's regular force, Land, Air and Sea.  Her Imperial Majesty believes that Kalistan's forces will not be able to adequately handle modern threats we as an Empire face, especially as the previous world order continues to decay, and the Lourennais element is reintroduced into a system that has suffered significant entropy. The review will give us an idea of where we do well and where we need to improve so that we can begin to consider parity with those militaries in the world who repeatedly sidestep Kalistani interests in our part of the world and do so with impunity.  Her Imperial Majesty said that our current national strategic doctrine invites constant and unnecessarily belligerent challenges from upstart nations, who have literally no interest whatsoever in our part of the world, but challenge us because they wish to make a name for themselves, and Kalistan no longer will serve that role.  

"In support of this goal, The Empress looks forward to welcoming elements of the Navy of Kundrati Union to Bozo River, where a preliminary deal for basing has been reached.  Details will follow, but this basing offer has been on the table for several years, and is a follow up for Kundrati's willingness to host Kalistani Radar in Etxea.  Her Imperial Majesty has dismissed concerns about the international implications of hosting Kundrati in the Anantonese Ocean, and said Kalistan's Empire is a fact that others should learn to square themselves with.  In her words, Kalistan's accommodation of the pique of others is over.

"Her Imperial Majesty wishes it known that her goals for foreign policy involve finding a way to work with Baltusia, Gaduridos, and Lodamun, first and foremost.  Baltusia has proposed linking their new Maglev lines into Kalistan's existing connections into the Kalistani National Rail System at Lucid Valley, which would create the opportunity to extend high speed rail transit from Likatonia to Aldegar and possibly Mordusia.  Kalistan sees these Northern Seleyan Nations in the future as a solid, united Bloc that cooperates, despite difference in ideology and regime type, and this bloc can challenge any power anywhere in the world. Extending it to Likatonia, Valruzia and Tukarali will also benefit us all, regardless of the effects it has on nations elsewhere in the world.  The Empress proposes the formation of a Northern Seleyan Confederation where all nations have an equal say in all affairs that concern us all as a direct counter to the inroads nations elsewhere on the globe hope to make in Seleya.

"Finally, Her Imperial Majesty has said it is her intention to review Kalistan's long held stance in opposition to the World Congress.  She notes her experience in Kundrati as an opportunity for a different point of view on the question.  She believes that on balance, Kalistan is hurt and is unjustly treated as a pariah for its principled refusal to participate in that international body.  While Her Imperial Majesty said she understands the arguments made by generations of Kalistani politicians, and even numerous emperors and empresses in our nation's history, she is more inclined toward participating in the international forum, especially since everyone knows that International Law is only as powerful as those people who are willing to enforce it.  The World Congress without Kalistan is toothless.  The World Congress with a forward leaning Anantonese Empire however, can be quite powerful.

"These are the Fiats of Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Pavlina I Ananto.  They are so dictated, in the interest of the safety and security of the People of Kalistan and Ananto, and in the interest of the security of the Anantonese Empire."

With that, Dame DuMont left the podium, with a very somber visage on her face, and entered her Imperial Majesty's limousine, which departed immediately for the Imperial Mansion in Wilson Hill.  Reporters remained outside the National Assembly in stunned silence for a moment following Dame DuMont's pronouncement, and then conversation between them erupted.

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Kalistan's Talking Heads Discuss Empress' Opening Salvos

"Black Empress" Appellation makes rounds on Social Media

Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto

December 31, 5558

Political Pundit Class on Radio Kaliburg generally mixed on Empress' new policy direction, but supportive of her as a person

The ominous pronouncements from the acting Chancellor of the Empire, Dame Jacqueline DuMont announcing Imperial Fiats have grown more common in recent days following the Empress' return to Kaliburg.  Most of them seem to be housekeeping matters, but what is clear is that The Empress has begun ruling Kalistan directly without the legislature, as a true absolute monarch, and this situation will likely continue into the foreseeable future.

The actions of the Empress over the last month have drawn significant attention to about half a dozen major political podcasts on Radio Kaliburg.  Each have audiences in the hundreds of thousands, and all gained notoriety before the troubles began across the Empire.  Initially the political podosphere had dozens of podcasts operating on a regular schedule, like a terrestrial station would, but defeat of the rebellion led to about 20 podcasts suddenly ending, when it became clear that the insurgency had no chance.  The remaining podcasts all took a somewhat sympathetic, though not sycophantic, tone regarding the Empress, and all independently produced tributes to the late Emperor following his assassination.  As a result, each of these shows' producers have so far escaped any official sanction, though they are occasionally critical of Imperial Policy.

Following the Empress' suspension of the National Assembly, these podcasters and a fairly wide swath of political bloggers began referring to the Her Imperial Majesty as "The Black Empress."  The term seems to have caught the zeitgeist, and it is now fairly common to refer to her in this fashion online and on political podcasts.  So far, the Empress herself has not commented on the use of the nickname, which amounts to tacit endorsement.  But the term is only occasionally used as a term of respect.  More often, it is used as a signifier of a measure of dreadful awe.

"Never before has a monarch, or any government as far as I can tell, concentrated so much power in the hand of one individual," said prominent Sulari Based Podcaster Charli Conway.  "Its a little scary when you think of what kind of power the Black Empress will wield if someone really pisses her off."

"You really gotta cut the Black Empress some slack," said podcaster Martin Guerra, who is a distant relative of the House Ananto.  "She's really been to hell and back.  I mean, she returned to Wilson House.  The last memory she has of the place is being woken up at like 1:30 in the morning by regular infantry, all carrying high power fire arms, and more or less kidnapped, put on a helicopter with the Princess Carolina, and told enroute that her husband has been murdered in Kalistan, and that she needs to flee to Gaduridos for her own life and the life of the Crown Princess.  Do you go back there?  I don't."

The current podcasters are already calling the insurgency "the death rattle of an old dynasty."  "I mean, yeah, we have a new dynasty," said Kaliburg based podcaster Michelle DeLeon.  "The old line is broken.  Fredrick didn't have any kids, and Mark Ananto has said he has no desire to sit on the throne.  He's in Gaduridos right now, and his kids are more Gaduri than they are Kalistani by this point.  And she's a Hulanevek.  Totally new Dynasty.  She's legit the Empress, and nothing short of war is going to change that, so like it or not...  I mean..."

While most of the major commentators are split on support for the Empress' Fiats, most are supportive of the Empress' actions in general and are supportive of her personally.  "It's bold, decisive leadership," said Eshar based podcaster Janice Concklin, who was initially supportive of the democracy movement, but switched following the Emperor's assassination out of shock and horror.  "This is the kind of firm leadership, I mean, initially anyway, from what I can tell, that Kalistan hasn't seen since the days of Nicolette the One.  The Great.  If she can keep up this big boss energy throughout the remainder of her reign, people will be calling The Black Empress 'Pavlina the Goat!'  Especially if she don't f--k with our civil liberties, and just lets us live our own life."

"Its time for Kalistan to finally shake off the fetters of the past," said host Bradley Hanley.  "Kalistan has often gotten right up to the line, and then for some reason not crossed it.  We have relied on too many people for far too long, and it is time for the Empire to assert itself in this world.  Right now, the door is closing, and it is such a joy to watch the Black Empress put her foot right in the gap and say 'Not today, Devil.'  It's really inspiring for such a, kind of a badass, I don't know.  She didn't defeat the insurgency, but when she came back what did she do?  Forgive the rebels and lop the head off her own Party.  What kind of genius does that?  You'd almost think she had what's his face killed to make an example of him, then bought all his people off and got them to join her side!  That's either brilliant or crazy, I suppose we'll find out."

Taken as a whole, the podcast class generate more support on Radio Kaliburg, which, though independent, has become one of Kalistan's most popular broadcast medium.  Concklin cited polls that showed support for the Empress has skyrocketed since July, and remains high despite the Empress' taking over the National Government.  "Interestingly enough, we see support for the Black Empress to be six points higher based on whether you listen to Radio Kaliburg or not.  Are we propagandists?  I certainly ain't:  There is plenty I disagree with, and you all know what I said during the protests, but I mean, she helped clear out my mother and father's house when it was destroyed.  How can I hate someone like that who helped me clean my childhood room and find the only photo album I still have left of my folks?  I can disagree with her, but friends, if you are listening to this show, you should know that I personally won't ever say another bad word against her as a person.  Does that make me a propagandist?  No, I think it makes me a human."

Most Podcasters on Radio Kaliburg, including the big ones, have repeatedly invited Her Imperial Majesty onto their show.  She has so far not responded to the requests, and they have had to settle for surrogates who are authorized to speak for her.  "I don't like having Count whatever on the show," said Guerra.  "That count is only here to give us the official line, and I really don't think I can stand to hear more one more entitled snob telling us about elections or how Kalistan still has democracy.  Really, I don't even care.  I think if we're going to get candid answers, we can't keep having some toady come on the show and tell us what we already know."

As the reforms under Empress Pavlina I Ananto deepen, it is likely that more political podcasters will join the gaggle.  Kalistan still has a free press, and a only slightly positive political pundit class is just one example of this.  "We've not received any kind of cease and desist for our commentary," said Concklin, "even when the stuff we say has been highly critical of the policy choices of the Empress.  I think the line is making it personal.  She seems to tolerate our policy criticism, and I can confirm that I have been visited by IBSI who I treated to a tour of the studio here, because I guess we're doing that now.  So I know they are listening to us at least.  But we haven't been told to stop criticizing her policies, or calling on her to have more democracy in the National Legislature.  Or let them come back into session even.  In fact, I think the visit from IBSI was pretty flattering, actually.  It kind of shows that the spooks care enough to let us know that they like and subscribe!"

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Kalistani Foreign Minister calls for new Seleyan Confederation

"Empress seeks to unite Interests against Artanian Imperialism"

Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto

April 21, 5559

Acting Chancellor of the Empire, Dame Jacqueline DuMont calls for new political union of purpose in Seleya

Acting Chancellor of the Empire, Dame Jacqueline Dumont, addressed the National Assembly today to call for a new political union in Northern Seleya.  The union, tentatively to be known as the Northern Seleyan Confederation, is merely an idea at the moment, but it is one that Daem DuMont says Her Imperial Mejesty, the Empress Pavlina I Ananto wishes to see brought into being.

"Kalistan has long held a central place in Seleyan Affairs," said Dame DuMont.  "As powers around the world rise and fall, Seleya has remained remarkably stable, relatively speaking.  We have weathered several storms recently, and on the other side, we see a very different world, with a very different power structure, and Seleya should stand together to address that new power arrangement as one, rather than all going off into our corners and picking sides."

The Chancellor said the Empress' idea "seeks to unite Seleyan Interests to resist imperialist impulses of Artania," first and foremost, but also to create a common framework for cooperation across the entire continent.  "We have shown we can accomplish things in common," said Dame DuMont.  "We have extended the Trans-Seleyan Railroad, each through our own individual efforts, with a common goal in mind, from an overlook of the Artanian Sea all the way into Mordusia now.  It took many years and many billions of Rubles to accomplish, but we did it, collectively, because it was in the interest of Seleyan nations to do this.  And there are several other things we can accomplish if we work together."  Among those interests are fighting fascism, Pan-Seleyanism, free movement of people, and a desire for independence from the conflicts and manipulations of the Great Powers of Terra.

Dame DuMont listed a number of initiatives that Her Imperial Majesty would like to work on, including but not limited to: 

• A Common Seleyan Market, to reduce and or eliminate trade barriers between Seleyan Nations, making Seleya one of the largest and most important free trade zones in the world.
  
• Common Seleyan Defense initiatives, where nations share technology and equiptment for the improvement of Continental defense
  
• Common Investment Pools to help rising states develop more quickly with a guaranteed source of investment to give them local, and favorable alternatives to seeking aid from Artanian, Majatran, or Dovani States
  
• Standardized currency exchange rates that not only promote a strong local currency to allow governments maximum control over monetary policy, but also ensure that transaction costs between nations are reduced to almost nothing, and that currency speculation and crashes are kept to a minimum for the health and well being of each individual Nation
  
• Common Infrastructure projects to address needs for energy and transportation across the entire Continent
  
• Common peace initiatives that ensure that Seleyan States neither fight with one another, nor feel insecurity when one state acts.
  

"Kalistan doesn't have all the answers," said Dame DuMont.  "Which is why we would like other nations to join in with us to help craft a Charter Document, to give us all a buy in, to provide means to amend the Document when it needs changing, and to give us all something we can live with, which will serve all of us well, without hurting any one of us."

Dame DuMont has called for the Conference of Seleyan States to begin in Kaliburg in October of this year, and will be sending invitations for delegations to the Plenary Session to begin drafting the document.  "The Conference will be open to all nations of Northern Seleya.  Other nations may observe, but will not be granted credentials to speak or vote within the Conference.  We will invite representatives from Kalistan, Lodamun, Baltusia, Gaduridos, Tukarali, Aldegar, Valruzia, and Likatonia to the conference.  Kalistan will offer to chair the opening sessions, but the aim is to have a rotating chair as we work out details.  All seated nations will posses a single vote on all matters, and any one Party may exercise a veto at any time.  Once we have a single unified document, we will all vote one final time, and if there is a majority, all those who agree to the final document will join the union in whatever configuration we eventually settle on."

The Acting Chancellor finished with an interesting Comment.  "Her Imperial Majesty has stated that all who eventually join any Confederation with Kalistan as a member, should find in Kalistan a friend.  But she hopes that any who opt to stay outside that confederation will be able to find friends elsewhere.  She also noted that she hopes this effort leads to greater peace and prosperity for our continent, for our people, and for the world."

While this effort seems directed at countering Luthorian influence in the Continent, it can also be said to be aimed at fortifying the Continent against the influence of other Great powers, and those who desire to become great powers too.  As such, It could also be seen as an indirect answer to a resurgent Canrille.  "Seleya for Seleyans," finished Dame DuMont, and received the applause of the 55 Deputies still in office, as well as the two hundred or so observers in the gallery.

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Empress Commissions 4th "Expeditionary" Fleet

Expands mission to formally include all "waters that wash the shores of Crown Lands"

Bozo River AGTC, Grand Duchy of Ananto

May 17, 5559

KRS-723 Indica Class Submarine, whose cousins will be the centerpiece of the new 4th Fleet

Her Imperial Majesty has ordered procurement of a new set of ships for the first time in decades and has called for the formation of a new 4th Fleet to be stationed at Port Swedes on the Northern Limit.  The commissioning of a new fleet is sure to draw some attention from Terran states, so Her Imperial Majesty has ordered the fleet to initially form up from recommissioned ships pulled from reserves of the other three fleets so as to ensure rapid launch of the fleet. The recommissioned ships will gradually be replaced by new ships built at Kaliburg National Shipyard, Dulnerstaad Naval Shipworks and Port Elga Shipyard.

"The procurement will run the Defense Budget into the tens of billions, but ultimately it will provide Kalistan with a new fleet that will allow us to range further afield and begin offering credible deterrent in and around the Crown Lands." said Her Imperial Majesty's Minister of Defense Colonel Martin Jackson said.  "As we go into our full two year long military review, the strategic doctrine of the Empire also needs to evolve.  Kalistan's vision is evolving from simply local defense to a more regional defense, and keeping ships in port necessarily limits our mission and regional reach, where we go and who we interact with.  The 4th Fleet will spend most of its time in the field and will cruise north into the Mad Dog Ocean and south to between Aldegar and Indrala."

The New 4th Fleet will consist of:

• 16 Indica-C Class Submarines
  
• 12 Victor Class Submarines
  
• 4 Kaliburg-C Class Destroyers
  
• 2 Luxon Class Frigates
  
• 2 Ontiveros Class Frigates
  
• 4 Daniel Guzman Class Multipurpose Frigates
  
• and 6 Sulari Class Corvettes
  
• along with all requisite supply and logistics ships
  

The Minister of Defense noted that the 4th Fleet will look for training and joint operations with Lodamun and Kundrati when Muster is complete.  In addition, the Regular Navy will begin offering bonuses for recruits, aiming to recruit between 18,000 and 20,000 new Sailors.  Manpower for the 4th Fleet will be drawn from the 3 existing fleets, while most of the new recruits will replace those in the Garrison Fleets.  Forming the new fleet exclusively of Veterans will make the 4th Fleet a formidable force in the Anantonese and in Northern Seleya.

"We hope to work with Lodamun in acquiring at least two of their rotary wing platform ships so we can add more sub-hunter capabilities to the fleet," said Colonel Martin, "but as it is, there is a helo lock down on our Frigates and destroyers that will allow us some additional options should Lodamun not be interested in selling us any ships."  Colonel Jackson said the Empire will also shift some assets from the 1st Fleet to the 3rd Fleet to create more space in Bozo River's submarine pens and surface berths for Kuntrati to take up basing within six to eight months.

"In all, I anticipate this increase in Kalistan's naval power will cause some ripples that our foreign Ministry will want to smooth over, but in the end, Her Imperial Majesty deems this necessary, and so it is what we will be doing."  The procurement will begin in June of this year, and full procurement will be complete by 5562.  Meanwhile, recommissioning is already underweigh and the 4th Fleet will be formed up and officially launched in September of this year.

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"It is time for Seleyans to put their money where their mouth is"

Empress comments on launch of Seleyan Conference in Kalistan

Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto

September 8, 5559

Her Imperial Majesty Delivers Comments in Support of Seleyan Union at National Assembly

"It is time for Seleyans who say they wish for Seleyan Unity to take definitive step toward that goal," said Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Pavlina I Ananto, in comments before the National Assembly.  The Empress spoke on behalf of the ongoing North Seleyan Confederation Conference that is already convened in Kaliburg.  "It is time for them to put money where mouth is."

The Empress has acknowledged early challenges to Union.  "It is clear that Kalistan does not have trust, at least for some, to convene such auspicious conference.  Kalistan may be seen by some nations as overly aggressive in the pursuit of its foreign policy goals, and by others as nation that is more suited to being in shadows of other nearby power.  They see our statements as threatening, when all we ever sought was friend.  It is clear that even as we offer the hand of friendship to some, they choose foreign powers to act as their patron instead.  Others may feel need to balance Kalistan's rising power and seek comfort and regularity of foreign master.  All of this sits squarely at odds to generally professed desire for more unity in Northern Seleya.  Maybe some would prefer that unity be achieved under Artanian overlord.  But if that is to be the terms of the arrangement, Kalistan would prefer disunity to one more Artanian master in this continent for one more day."

The Empress was clear about the choices.  "We are ourselves perfectly clear about choice that lay before us, as Empire and as Continent.  We either liberate ourselves, or we shall ever serve as backwater and extraction point for others who have been at this game far longer than Kalistan.  Seleya either stands free or becomes enthralled.  We have far better chance at the former if we work together.  And yet some would prefer latter, and so they choose to make separate deal with the foreigners that prevents them from finding constructive ways from working together."

In an interesting twist, the Empress noted the Syndicalist example of Baltusia.  "As we are learning from our emerging relationship with the Syndicalist Union of Autonomous States, we all do better when we all do better.  We don't often find ourselves in agreement with socialist unionists in Baltusia, and we acknowledge that a lot of historical issue remain.  But on this we can admit Baltusia is correct:  If we all stand together, nobody who can stop us.  It is not too radical for a Kalistani to say, 'There is power in Union,' and 'Injury to one is injury to all'!  If we each decide to go try to get best deal we can for ourselves, without worrying about what anyone else around us will get, piranhas will carve our continent into their own little fiefdoms, with Narikiton taking this piece, and Luthori taking this peace, and others picking off what is left.  Seleya has wherewithal to defend itself from this, but rest assured, it is already happening.  We are proud to say that Union of some kind to save our continent from Dovanization is still within our grasp, if we only can find way to work together."

On one concern raised by the Tukarali delegation regarding Democracy, The Empress was emphatic:  "Kalistan is Empire.  We have unsettled historical claims and desire to restore traditional borders.  Notwithstanding, It was our desire, and we believe that Dame DuMont expressed specifically, that nothing will happen within conference that Delegates of this Conference oppose.  We have offered each Delegation veto over any proposal, and they may keep out any proposal they do not like.  If our Turkarese neighbors feel there is not enough democracy represented in specific proposal, they may veto it at their leisure, and either we try to satisfy their concerns as conference, or we will let matter drop.  This works both ways, however, and Kalistan will similarly not hesitate to use veto when it appears that will of the conference is working to determinant of our interests.  We would expect all state to do same.  The important thing is, Tukarali has sent delegation to Conference, so Tukarali is at least interested in seeing what will come of it and in being part of discussion.  It is our sincere hope that other nations who have thus far opted to reject the conference before it even had a chance to begin will change their minds and join us instead.  It costs nothing to participate, unless our neighbors are worried about breaking premade arrangements they have with other state who are interested in failure of any coordinated effort."

Finally on Gaduridos, the Empress was more contrite than perhaps was expected.  "Our Foreign Minister spoke on our behalf regarding what has, as we understand, been viewed abroad as a threat.  We regret her phrasing of sentiment, while reserving sentiment itself.  If Seleya embarks upon the sea of Union, it will do so with those on board.  And it will proceed in interests of those on board.  Those who have opted to stay on shores will do so for their own reasons.  We never suggested that we would then turn around and attack them for choosing.  The words our Foreign Minister said were more concerned with providing sense of urgency and touchstone to rally around, in essence, to encourage people to not be left behind.  Because in that event, it will not be Kalistan picking at bones of Seleya, but Artanians who are already swirling overhead waiting for opportunity to carve continent up, who will subject our neighbors.  We regret that this was said in way that was viewed as a threat and caused fear.  We hope damage is not irreparable, but we certainly hope that Gaduridos understands spirit in which it was said, even if it does not particularly care for lack of art in its utterance."

In closing the Empress was clear about the need for the Conference and the benefits of the Union.  "With or without Union, Kalistan will be fine.  Empire will continue as we always have.  Lodamun will likely be fine, as it is stepping forward in world.  But we will certainly be weaker for our lack of imagination in figuring out how to prevent this recurring cycle, where other stronger nations see Seleya as place they get resources from, paying our people pennies while selling us their manufactured goods, or tromping through our territory with their military weaponry, dragging us into conflicts that are of their making, and keeping lid on our growth and development so they can shine brighter.  This union represents real chance for our continent to step forward out of shadow of past, and it is our hope that our neighbors and fellow Seleyans see it in that light, rather than as just belligerent, malevolent vehicle for Kalistani expansion, which is no doubt the way it is being portrayed in some circles, an idea no doubt inspired by those who stand to lose from united Seleyan Continent.  It is time to Unite, or accept our role as perpetual 'Could have Been chaotic nutcase' while others rise and fall at our expense."

The Empress' speech received a standing ovation in the National Assembly.  It is not clear how it will be received internationally.

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Spotlight on: Bozo River
Home of the 1st Fleet boasts is Very Much a Frontier Town
Bozo River, Grand Duchy of Ananto
October 15, 5559


Bozo River Docks, at Bozo River Combined Arms Training Center

At the very northern edge of the Anantonese Empire lies one of the newest, relatively speaking, cities in the Empire.  It was built from scratch, over a period of 2 years in the early 42nd Century, and has since then hosted various elements of the Kalistani Regular Navy, including the 1st Fleet of Kalistani Regulars.  It is also the home of HQRN, and serves as the pre-eminent combined arms live fire training facility in all of Seleya.  And the largest:  Bozo River CATC covers more than 1100 square miles in the sparsely populated Green County of the Grand Duchy of Ananto.

Though Bozo River is linked directly to Eveari, Kaliburg, and Dahriel far to the south, it is for the most part isolated from the rest of Kalistan.  This is both a blessing and a curse.  Kalistan is a modern, urbane, and highly connected nation, while Bozo River remains almost a time capsule from more than 1300 years ago.

The town of Bozo River, population 36,500 is very much a "military city".  It is home to more than 35 car dealerships, 50 bars, 23 tattoo parlors, a dozen strip clubs, including some that cater to specific tastes, and two elementary schools, a movie theater, ten shopping centers, an opera house, a High School and a local college.  "The town itself is pretty boring," said Sgt Melanie Gutierrez, who is permanent personnel at BRCATC.  "This is pretty much the closest thing we will get Island Side to a Hardship tour.  The Capital is just a few hours away by maglev, but otherwise, we may as well be on the moon.  There are plenty of things to do here, if you like drinking, getting tattoos and seeing naked women and men serve alcohol or singing.  It's kind of a wild place to live.  There are more prostitutes here than school teachers."

Most of the people who live in Bozo River are either connected with the Regular Force somehow, or make money by serving them things.  "We have some really good restaurants here in Bozo River," said Jonas Alfredson.  "People from all over the Empire end up here sooner or later, and many cooks who do different kinds of food can make a nice living catering to all the little preferences people from Dana have, as oppose to people from like Senvias have.  You probably won't find a more varied cuisine in one place anywhere in the Empire."  The people of Bozo River are fiercely loyal to the Monarchy, and the one pro-democracy protest that happened in Bozo River ended up being a voter registration drive put on by the Public Library in support of the Institutional Party.  Most people interviewed in the town during the height of the disorders echoed a common sentiment:  "Not in our City."

Bozo River is a sleepy military city, mostly occupied by Service Members, Veterans and those who sell things to them

It is difficult to paint Bozo River as much more than a town directly adjacent to a military base.  That said, there are a surprising number of different kinds of jobs there.  "A lot of the civilians in Bozo River work on base, usually as mechanics, maintenance or doing things like working in the PX," said SSgt Oscar Ribaldi, who overseas Mainside Motor T Supply.  "We ourselves use a lot of civilian couriers to stock parts for our humvees and stuff.  Since this base serves all three branches of the Regular Force, there are all kinds of jobs here that we need civilians to do, so, there is always work for people who want it in Bozo River, and because this town is kind of far away from everything, pay tends to be a bit higher in town too."

Just outside of Bozo River, there are plenty of natural areas for people to explore.  "The Green Mountain Foothills up here are wonderful to hike in," said Alfredson.  "I hike up North Mountain at least once a month when the weather is good.  You don't want to be going up there when it is raining and cold.  And a lot of these areas have some pretty dense forests if you like hunting.  There is great hunting not an hour's drive south of here, and laws being what they are, there are always plenty of animals in there to give any expert a real challenge.  And we have white water up in the hills too, and of course there is ocean kayaking and sailing off the point."

The Music Scene of Bozo River is fairly mundane.  "Well, so, a lot of bands that are past their prime often play here in Bozo River," said SSgt Ribaldi.  "They kind of cater to these Veterans who like that stuff.  Remembering back in the old days and everything.  It must be a military thing, because a lot of the young guys dig that stuff too.  That and kind of like country music?  There's not a lot of rock shows or electronic music up here.  But we can get that in Kaliburg when we're on liberty."

Bozo River is home to both the 1st Fleet, HQ Regular Navy and elements of the Regular Army who carry on garrison duties and oversee training on the ranges.  "We also have a known distance course, a MOUT facility, and two dry docks left over from the old Shipyard days.  We look forward to working with Kundrati to be able to ensure that their basing needs are met, and we have dedicated two Barracks facilities to their use on mainside.  Hopefully they will also use our Naval Air Station as well, and train on a regular basis with our Naval, Air, Ground and Militia units that frequent BRCATC."

Though Bozo River is essentially the polar opposite in many ways from its sister city Dulnerstaad, it still is a pretty town.  The culture is not as vibrant as say Dana or Kaliburg, but it has its own lifeways that have evolved into a routine over the centuries.  Natives of Bozo River are, for example, known for their punctuality and their inability to frighten easily.  "It leads to Bozo River residents getting a reputation as pranksters, in a lot of ways," said Gutierrez.  "A lot of local folk festivals involve getting people to do things that are somewhat dangerous, quite funny, and more than a little embarrassing.  But also, people from here are avid gamblers.  A lot of the bars have poker and blackjack in them, and there are boxing gyms and a horse track where people bet on ponies in the summer evenings.  People love to lose their money in this town!"

Ananto looks forward to the arrival of Kundrati in the coming months.  It will add yet another pastel layer to the collage of Bozo River.

[Doc]

Sir Bertram Ames-Ananto named New Chancellor
Backbench promotion to replace Dame Ontiveros hints at new ideas
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
November 17, 5559


Institutional Party Deputy from Suldanor called on to Lead New Government

A backbencher who has represented the sleepy constituency of Frontera, Duchy of Suldanor, has been named Chancellor of the Empire in a move seen by some as an effort to inject new ideas into Her Imperial Majesty's Government.  Sir Bertram Ames-Ananto, who was knighted late last year as a result of his exemplary service in the Regular Force during the Rebellion is a new face in the Kalistani Political Scene.  Ames-Ananto is 34 years old, enlisted in the Regular Force as a wireman for 3 years and is currently an active member of the Reserves in Suldanor.  More importantly, he is a distant relative of the late Emperor Fredrick II Ananto, through his mother and His Highness, the Grand Duke Mark Ananto-Orleans.  Before joining the military, Ames obtained a philosophy doctorate at Univeristy of Suldanor, where he studied Public Policy Convergence.

Sir Bertram Ames-Ananto was selected as a dark horse candidate in internal elections for Party Leadership.  His name was entered by the Sulari Deputies who wanted to ensure that the Mainland was represented in elections.  His nomination was seconded by Her Grace Katherine Taliaferro of Dana County.  Up against him were two longtime Institutional Party deputies from Ananto and a member of the new reform caucus of the Institutional Party, which is just beginning to take shape.  While the two Ananto deputies and the Reform candidate began debating bitterly about the future of the Empire, Sir Bertram sat quietly on the side.  Eventually the moderators of the internal debate forum asked Ames whose opinion he supported, and he said simply, "Our job here is to carry out the will of the Empress.  I may have some ideas, and my ideas are based on rigorous scientific data rather than ideology and gut feeling, but I think I can bring that to bear to assist the Empress in making her mind up, and assume that I will ever need to come up with a solution myself.  So this debate is kind of pointless."  The answer led the other candidates for the office to immediately dismiss him as a novice and continue the debate among themselves.

During the vote, it was everyone else's turn to be surprised.  Ames came out with 57% of the vote, in the four person race.  None of the other three got even twenty five percent.  Institutional Deputies said that they appreciated Ames' level headed response, his unassuming manner, and his willingness to listen and consider other points of view.  "I think he is what we need right now," said Veronica MacAdam, who represents Senvias.  "Dame Ontiveros was a strong leader, but when she didn't want something, she just walked over people.  I think Ames will listen and will talk to people and that input will make its way into National Policy."

Sir Bertram's policy preferences are not widely known.  He did support the call to begin procurement for the 4th Fleet, and he is on the Veterans Affairs Committee in the Ministry of Defense, so it is clear that he is a person who cares about the military.  It is also clear that he was one of the 50 or so remaining Deputies who took the Pledge of Loyalty to Her Imperial Majesty, though given his family name, that is not surprising.  He has been tight lipped about what policies he will pursue with the Empress.  "I think I would like to certainly revisit a number of our international relationships," said Sir Bertram.  "We had a couple unforced errors that perhaps we didn't need to make.  But ultimately the country has returned to firmer footing in the past few years."

Following his election, Dame DuMont accompanied Ames to Eveari, where they were both received by Her Imperial Majesty.  Following a three hour long interview, both DuMont and Ames emerged from the parlor, where Dame DuMont gave a brief statement to assembled Reporters.  "Her Imperial Majesty has agreed that Sir Bertram Ames-Ananto shall serve her as the next Chancellor of the Empire.  She admired his military service and thanked him for doing his duty to her husband and herself during the Rebellion.  She also had an extended conversation with Sir Bertram about economics and theory, and demonstrated her peerlessness in the conversation,  Sir Bertram accepted his commission from the Empress.  In addition, she has allowed me to return to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where I may continue to be of service to her.  I shall immediately resume my duties as Her Imperial Majesty's Minister of Foreign Affairs.  This is all."  The new Chancellor of the Empire stood with Dame DuMont for photographs but said he had no additional comments on the posting, except that he looked forward to working closely with Her Imperial Majesty and Dame DuMont going forward.

The Empress, during her interview with the new Chancellor, has commanded him to form a new Government and to prefer Ministers who are outward looking in regard to Kalistan's position in the world.  What this exact criteria could possibly mean is anyone's guess, but judging by the new Ministers that the Chancellor will recommend, they are people who have been on record as valuing trade and modernization.  Of the old set, only Dame DuMont, Colonel Jackson in Defense, and Professor Vicnent Rodrigues at Finance continued to enjoy her confidence, and the others were summarily sacked.  So the Cabinet will be largely new.  Chancellor Ames is expected to submit his Slate to the Empress for approval in January.

[Doc]

M7 Debuts new music show "Travis and Bob"
Two "idiots" spend time watching TV, giggling and doing petty crime
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
December 29, 5559


Bob (Left) and Travis are thinly veiled satires of modern teenagers

In what has been called "the most intelligent new show of the decade," M7 has joined with celebrated underground artist Earl Gabriel to debut a new music series "Travis and Bob."  The show is primarily a music video program that also features short stories about the two titular teenagers' day to day life.  Travis and Bob are "just two guys who literally don't have any ambition or skills, spend their time watching tv and making crude jokes and going around town getting into trouble," said Gabriel, who created the series as a comic strip in his college years.  The cartoon moved off the page and onto television when M7 hired Gabriel and added videos to the program.

"We saw a great opportunity to not only use the program to introduce new music," said M7 Programming Manager Todd Anderson, "but also to kind of turn a mirror onto Kalistani youth culture.  The show is hilarious, and does really well among 14-17 year olds, both male and female, who say they either 'know people exactly like Travis and Bob' or 'are just like Travis and Bob.'  Interestingly enough, while teenagers are laughing at essentially themselves, they also understand the deep satire in the programming.  It's weird and funny and just a great thing."

"Yeah, I know they are making fun of my generation," said teen Daria van Dreesen.  "But I think Earl Gabriel is such a smart guy because he knows exactly the things we find hilarious, and he knows the kind of stuff we do.  It's like he's making fun of us, but we're in on the joke, so its not mean at all.  It is more like a loving tribute."

Each 12 minute episode contains about 6-8 minutes worth of music videos and 4-6 minutes of an unrelated self-contained narrative.  "You don't need to know anything to get into the show.  You find out who Travis and Bob are in the first few seconds of each program.  That's the only exposition you need," said Gabriel.  "These two idiots just spend all day watching M7, making crude jokes and laughing incessantly.  They're basically their own laugh track.  We all know people like that:  the world's a big joke to them.  The rest of the stuff that happens in their day is the most inconsequential nonsense, and as dumb as these two guys are, its sort of like they put just the stupidity in many aspects of daily life into high relief.  The most important thing they will do all day is watch tv and make commentary on the music videos they see.  And in a way, they are also the most astute critics of pop culture--they basically say on television what everyone is saying about a lot of these videos, and they spend their time making fun of the channel that is playing the cartoon.  Its so meta, and I am glad that M7 can take a joke too, because really its making fun of them."

Parent groups have already complained about the program.  "This show is completely vulgar," said Stewart McVicker.  "This show depicts two delinquents who do nothing with their lives, who are utter slackers, and who really have no problem with that.  They model awful behavior, and if anyone follows their example, we are in trouble as a nation.  Shame on M7 for putting this vulgarity on television, and I hope parents groups get together to boycott this show and Mr. Gabriel."  M7 has waived off the concerns and Gabriel said he invites the hate.

"If you don't find this show funny, don't watch it," said Gabriel.  "It ain't for you.  We're 10 episodes into the first season, and yeah, we do politically incorrect stuff on the program, but the only ones we specifically aim to offend is parents like Mr. McVicker, who spend their time complaining about kids these days.  Everyone else finds the show funny."  

"Travis and Bob" airs in Prime Time at 7pm KST on M7, and then the episode is repeated each night at 11pm.  The channel will premier its full 35 episode first season, with one new episode followed by a repeat.  The first series will premier for 6 weeks, and then re-runs will play until the second season, which has already begun development, starts next September.

[Video: https://youtu.be/NbglZ5j1-es?si=y13n66GXvOpiexXA]
Check out one of the videos on M7's "Travis and Bob" with their take on Sawmilly's "Candy"

[Doc]

Kalistani News in Brief:  Pontesi visits and nearly nukes Confederation Talks
First Round of Naval Procurement is Successful; Melanie Inti Claps back at Noise Alternative
Kaliburg, Duchy of Ananto
January 7, 5560


Melanie Inti's new folk album seen as direct answer to Noise Alternative

Pontesi Visit nearly scuttles Confederation Talks
A visit from Aram Arevyan from Pontesi this week nearly scuttled the ongoing discussions with Baltusia and other Northern Seleyan Nations currently in Kaliburg, when a well intended comment turned into a gaffe.  The foreign minister of the Majatran nation was in town to have an audience with Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Pavlina I Ananto.  Following the audience, Mr. Arevyan was invited to give brief statements to the Kalistani press, through his interpreter, concerning his meeting with the Empress.  During the meeting he said he expressed his deep condolences for the loss of the late Emperor, Fredrick II Ananto, and wished to restate his friendship and desire to cooperate with Kalistan in the future.  He also took a moment to address Baltusia, as a friendly warning for Her Imperial Majesty.  He added "And we told her that we acknowledge Kalistani claims in Athosia, and plan to do what we can to support those claims."

Upon uttering these lines to the press, cameras flashed immediately, as reporters hurried off to their news desks and report the comments, leaving the visiting diplomat standing at a podium with his translator and a chagrinned Dame DuMont.  The story initially went out in all major newspapers in Kalistan that Pontesi sought to back Kalistan in Athosia, and the fallout was almost immediate.  It was a fully 12 hours before the Foreign Minister could schedule another press briefing and clear the matter up.  "Her Imperial Majesty has sent a personal letter to the Government of Baltusia to tell them that Kalistan has no intention of actively pursuing our claims in Baltusia, and issuing a formal re-guarantee of the Lucid River as the internationally recognized frontier between Kalistan and Baltusia.  While this matter is embarrassing, Kalistan wants to reiterate that nothing has changed between Kalistan and Baltusia: we are still looking for ways to work together, and we are sincere in our efforts for peace and cooperation."  The Pontesi Foreign Minister was present as Her Imperial Majesty's FM did damage control.  Following the comments, Dame DuMont remained on hand to answer questions from reporters about the incident.

The Pontesi's gaffe seemed designed to provoke the Syndicalist Union of Autonomous States, at precisely the time when Kalistan would like to work toward repair of relations.  There is no word yet how San Luis is taking the incident.  Foreign Minister DuMont said the matter did not hurt Kalistani-Pontesi relations and chalked it up to a misunderstanding.

First Round of Naval Procurement has been completed
Three new Indica Class C Submarines were put to sea this week, and have taken their place in the newly formed 4th Fleet.  These are the first new subs to take their place on the line, and were completed in Kaliburg late last month.  The 4th Fleet, which will ultimately serve as an expeditionary fleet, was commissioned in May of last year and has been slowly forming at Port Swedes.  Recruitment and commissioning for the three garrison fleets is on target as well to replace veterans who were repurposed to the 4th Fleet.  The 4th Fleet, which still consists primarily of recommissioned ships from the Naval Ship yards at Kaliburg, participated in drills with the Second Fleet in the Anantonese Ocean this week.  They were given a grade of "C" in readiness, and many deficiencies noted had more to do with the state of their equipment than the performance of the Sailors.  Over the next few years, more new ships will join the Fleet, and complete procurement is expected to be complete by late 5562 or early 5563.

Melanie Inti releases Album of folk music as a response to Noise Alternative
Vrassan singer Melanie Inti released her debut album on VDR this week to much fanfare.  The album, "Kalistan I'm Comin Home" is an album of ballads, protest songs and an ode to Kalistan which describes a traveler who is on a world adventure and only thinks of returning to Kalistan.  The album is considered by many to be a direct response to Noise Alternative, a narrative that inti herself doesn't downplay.  "Well, when I wrote these songs, the radio was very loud at the time," said Inti in an interview with Kalistani Rawk Monthly.  "And, as you can tell, I am a kind of a quiet person.   I don't have a lot of rage or angst in me, so that kind of music didn't really speak much to me.  I was just doing my thing, playing in the local shows, and kinda hiding from the storm.  But now seems like as good a time as any to put these songs out."  Inti, a former model who left her career to become a singer says she likes making music better.  "I get to be kind of a hippy," said Inti.  "Like a peacenik.  I really like sharing joy, and singing about deep emotions and everything.  Much of this music is very romantic, and quiet, and I feel really good about this record."  Inti welcomes the fame and said she looks forward to playing for people all across the Empire.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YW_buEbnKGI]
On her album, Inti covered Jennifer Stepanov's 4905 single "My Sweetest Downfall" which has been released as her first single