Kalistan

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Foreign Ministry issues travel warning for Southern Seleya, Majatra as tensions heat up
Embassy staff is recalled from Beiteynu and Alduria to avoid conflict
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
January 8, 5472


Vacationing Kalistani citizens attempting to return from Bayonville, Alduria to Kaliburg are delayed due to flight cancellation

Her Imperial Majesty's Foreign Minister, Dame Diane Smith, has issued travel warnings for all Kalistani citizens who are attempting to travel to Southern Seleya and to Majatra in light of the growing hot war between Lourenne and Beiteynu. In addition, Embassy staff and their families have been recalled from Beiteynu's capital of Yishelem, due to non-specific terror threats and general hostility. The Empire will maintain limited consular services in Yishelem for the time being, to allow for Kalistanis who are in Beiteynu to depart. If additional danger to Kalistani lives are noted, the Foreign Minister will call for a suspension of consular services.

"The situation just in that general area is very unstable and very tense," said Smith. "Badara is joining the war on Beiteynu's side, and despite our proclamation of neutrality, we've had to suspend some business in Badara as well, because we can't be putting our people in harm's way. It's a powder keg, and Her Majesty believes it is just better to get Kalistanis out of that part of the world all together until these nations resolve their conflicts."

When asked about Her Imperial Majesty's diplomatic posture toward the Beiteynu Government, Smith was emphatic: "Her Majesty still officially recognizes the Beiteynese government and from our perspective, relations are still normal. We have not heard of any changes in posture toward the Empire by Beiteynu, and it is in our interest to retain cordial, open and frank relations with the government in Yishelem. This recall of our embassy staff is a temporary situation: it is not a protest involving the war. Our Ambassador has expressed this posture to Beiteynu, and we have made it clear that we wish to remain neutral, but we also must look to the safety of our people as well. I have every expectation that the Ambassador and the Embassy staff will return following the conclusion of this war."

As for Lourenne, the Foreign Minister did not announce any travel restrictions or recall of staff. "The security situation in Lourenne is normal," said Dame Smith. "We have no threats, nor would we expect any, toward Kalistani citizens, businesspeople, or diplomatic staff. We retain the warmest relations with the Government of the United Kingdom. Our concern is for the safety of people travelling toward and in war zones."

The travel advisory, which is expected to continue indefinitely, affects trips to Saridan, Mordusia, Alduria, Rildanor and Kanjor, all of Majatra, and the southern half of Artania, which are adjacent to contested naval zones. Indrala is not included in the travel advisory, and Dovani, Keris and all nations in northern Seleya are also not considered "dangerous" for Kalistani Travel. The recall of Embassy Staff only extends to Beiteynu and Alduria.

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Lysergamide Releases debut Record
"We wanted to focus on what's important," says singer
Vrassa City, Duchy of Vrassa
February 12, 5472


Lysergamide's Debut "Time for Change" on VDR

Happy hippy alt-folk rockers Lysergamide, released their debut album this week. The album titled "Time for Change" is dedicated to those who want peace in the world. "We hear all these rumors of war," says lead singer and primary songwriter for the band Max Harrison, 23, of Port Swedes. "And we want to focus on what's really important in this world. It's not being the big man with the big weapons and killing. It's about loving one another and getting along, and you know, like hangin out and playing some great tunes and loving your lady or man with all your heart. That's all that really matters. It really is time for a change."

Their lead single, the eponymous "Time for Change" showcases the band's acoustic chops as well as Harrison's wide vocal range. The song, about accepting changes in one's life, was written as Harrison left the NSP. "I was kind of aimless and my life didn't really have a lot of meaning. And I saw the world sort of madness. And I think I got some acid from the dispensary, and decided to eat it, and just curled up in a little ball and felt real sorry for myself. But I had this profound realization, during that night, and I wrote this song about it. And when the band got together, it was the first song I pitched."

Most of the band hails from Vrassa City where they played in various folk rock and alt-folk bands that still dominate the city's music scene. "We met Max when he sort of wandered up to our door," says bassist Don McMillan. "We were just sitting on the porch all jamming, and maybe two of us were between bands, and here comes this scrawny, half starved kid, who probably hadn't lived indoors for a while, and he asked if we could jam, and we sort of clicked." Drummer Thomas Alvarez, the last member to join said "When we got together, these guys were, well, there was kind of a clique in the band, and it was hard to join. They had more of a folk and blues background, while I played a lot of jazz. But after just kinda sorta just playing along with what they were doing, I had to learn to forget a lot of what I knew and try something new, and I think one day, we realized we had been jelling for a good while and I think that was the day we really became a band."

The quintet impressed A&R reps at VDR with their musical distinctiveness and versatility. But they almost didn't get their record recorded. "It seems a lot of folks in Vrassa get discovered playing in bars," said Harrison. "That was totally us, you know? Like playing backyard parties for friends, playing the County Fair, whatever. Playing the bar... yeah, we were given this dude's card at Gallon's, that distinguished waterin hole down over there in what's it called, uh, Red Pass or something. We were playing for beer that night, and some guy was like 'Hey you guys wanna make a record?' and we were like 'yeah whatever you know...' and we keep playing and like two weeks later that same dude called us up and was like you know, uh, 'Hey, uh... You know... Where are you guys at? You was supposed to be here like an hour ago?' and I was like all you know, like... 'where's here?' and he said Vrassa. And it was the record guy. Ain't that wild?"

The record was recorded in two weeks. The band worked with VDR producer Michelle Ward, and together they produced a 14 track alt-folk album of the band's favorite tunes. They switch between acoustic instruments, primarily guitars, harmonicas, and mandolins, and will also plug in, and play the occasional acid rock. "Most of our songs are drenched in acid," said lead guitarist Johnny Mercer. "We tend to use a lot of that. Its one of the many things that we as a band have in common. We all acid eaters, and I think the music reflects a certain outlook that is influenced by this, to say the least. However we can reproduce thoughts and the sounds and sights even that we see, we try to do that." The mix of LSD influenced alt-folk has been very well received among music buyers and the music on the album has already landed the band a performance on M7 as well as a number of Late Night programs.

"This music is a real antidote to the tension and strife that others are creating in this world," said fan Natalie Kingston, of Vrassa City. "Sometimes we just need to mellow out, put on some good tunes and just breathe, you know. Like Max says: When times are hard, you know you have to change."

"Time For Change", on VDR Records, is now out at all record stores and streaming outlets. You can watch the recent M7 Live performance of the title track, Time For Change right here.

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Empress Creates Needs Stabilization Fund for Foreign Nationals
Stabilization fund seeks to welcome working families seeking refuge from war
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
March 8, 5473


Her Imperial Majesty addresses citizens whose governments "can't find peace"

Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Nicolette I, announced that her Government would be making a fund available to ameliorate the damage that the War between Lourenne and Beiteynu is doing to the international Economy. Specifically this fund, called the "Needs Stabilization Fund" aims at guaranteeing that working people in belligerent countries aren't punished because their respective governments can't seem to choose peace.

"War is not good for working people in this world," said the Empress. "Workers and the poor always bear the burden for the war, while the wealthy and powerful who want war never seem to ever experience negative effects. As fewer and fewer countries seem to be able to remain at peace, and more and more countries are being hit with massive economic collapse, we would like working people to know that 1) war is never something that the working and the poor want, 2) that it is always something that the working class and poor bear a disproportionately high cost of, and 3) the Kalistan is here to help if you suddenly find yourself without a job or a house because your war addicted government decides that they would rather collapse your whole economy than simply remain at peace."

Kalistan's Needs Stabilization Fund Authorizes all consuls and embassies in belligerent nations, or in nations whose economy has collapsed because of the war, to begin registering foreign nationals who wish to leave their country and fly to Kalistan. "We have asked our Government to work with Aero Kal to make flights available to foreign nationals who wish to flee to the relative peace and stability of the Empire," said the Empress. Once here, foreign nationals will be given a residence, and will be offered the opportunity to work, at full wages and with full protection of all workers in Kalistan, earn a living and attend university. "We shall also offer them an opportunity to take instruction in Vrassan or Egelian, and civics instruction with the aim of making citizenship available should they choose to stay," said the Empress. "Kalistan is a country that welcomes diversity and welcomes all people of all nations to our peaceful Nation. They will be treated as if they were born here."

Critics of the program expressed concern over the cost of the policy, and the ongoing urban renewal programs that are still running in a handful of Kalistani Cities, but it fell to Her Majesty's Chancellor Michael Johnson to assuage those concerns. "The program seeks to welcome people who want to work, but can no longer find work or keep their homes where they are at because the politicians have decided that their country needs to be at war. Our policy prioritizes skilled labor, scientific accomplishment and work experience in general, because we think that people who wish to live in peace ought to be given the opportunity to do so."

It is unclear whether the Stabilization fund will attract many people, but according to Chancellor Johnson, "Look, the Empress has commanded it, and so it is law. But she believes that even if we bring in one scientist, that is a win for Kalistan. Surely there are people out there who, through no fault of their own, are being hurt by their Government's war policies. If Kalistan can help those people, Her Majesty wants to try."

The Policy will be enacted immediately, and Consular staff will begin processing applications within a month.

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Ananto completes Maglev Network
Population and Economic Shift predicted for Grand Duchy
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
March 30, 5473


Ananto now has full Maglev Service across island

Completing the AnantoRail Line to Bozo River has been quite challenging, but the final miles of track have been laid and service finally innagurated, capping off a dream that has been something less than a National Obsession for generations. The AnantoRail line that connects Bozo River, Eveari, Dulnerstaad, Kaliburg, Luxon and Dah has finally been opened, and passengers have enthusiastically greeted the completion of this mighty infrastructural project.

"We are already seeing an increase in traffic between Eveari and Kaliburg, and between Luxon and Kaliburg," said AnantoRail CEO Michael Anderson. "The MagLev not only will encourage tourism beyond the Capital, but will free up the terrestrial lines for cargo traffic to improve distribution of goods and commodities arcoss the Duchy." Forecasts for the economic impact of the opening of the maglev passenger lines show a modest improvement of Ananto's economy, as more people can move outside of Kaliburg while still working in the Capital. "Dulnerstaad especially will see an improvement, both in access to jobs and services in Kaliburg, but also in services in Dulnerstaad, as more residents will drive increased demand for services." Eveari will only see a slight increase in population and services, but along with Luxon, should see a fairly major increase in tourism with new links to Kaliburg International Airport.

Dah is expected to grow too, as it is poised to be a major industrial and agriculture center in the near future. "Dah is already the center of the Agricultural industry in Ananto," said Anderson. "But the forecasts predict populations in Luxon shifting toward Dah to take advantage of the pro-growth climate of Ananto's Second City. As people can come and go a lot easier, we predict that Dah will experience a fairly dramatic growing period in the next 10 to 15 years."

The railline will also put pressure on the Grandy Duchy to finish the port expansion in Luxon. "We can imagine that there will be a push for Ananto to open a commercial port in Luxon," said Anderson, "but the city will most likely push back, because it wants to set itself up as a tourist destination. They already have the criminally undervisited Global Music Hall of Fame in Luxon, but the city boasts some of the best beach resorts on the Island, a beautiful natural harbor that was for centuries the ancient port of Ananto, and ancient 4000 year old ruins from the Anantonese Empire. The last thing Luxon will want to do is spoil the tourist potential with a commercial port. So far the Empress has been willing to let Luxon drag its feet on port expansion, but now that export potential can possibly dwarf tourist potential in the city, the Duchess may have to make a economic decision, rather than a sentimental one."

What is clear is that the face of the Grand Duchy of Ananto is about to change. It is doubtful that it will look the same after the transition catalyzed by the opening of the MagLev, but Ananto is ready for the change, and bringing the island into the modern Kalistani Era is a project that was long overdue.

For now, there is no more construction planned for the National Rail Line. Links with both Baltusia and Lodamun have been completed, and connection into Neveras and Vrassa City are also done. "This really is a major engineering feat," said Johnson. "We are very proud what we have completed here, over mountains, across rivers, through the Lucid Morass... It is certainly something to hold high in the pantheon of National Accomplishments. Now it is time to ensure high quality, safety, and comfort for our passengers. We are not done, by a long stretch."

Regular passenger traffic is ongoing from the Capital, and the National Line connects with City Transit that links AnantoRail into air, bus and ferry service to the Mainland.

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Empress Visits Dolgava on Holiday
Informally Visits with Empress Konstanja lll of Dolgava
Aikums, Dolgava
April 30, 5473


Her Imperial Majesty Empress Nicolette I Interviewed by local TV Host Andrejs Bērziņš

Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Nicolette took a short two week holiday to The Empire of Dolgava this month, her first outing away from the Empire. "Her Imperial Majesty felt that she should take this opportunity to visit Kalistan's neighbors before everyone around Kalistan became engulfed in war," said Maria Wilson, personal secretary to Empress Nicolette. "Dolgava is preparing for war, but the Empress hoped to visit before that happened. It has long been a goal of hers to get out and see neighboring states. She will look for additional opportunities in the near future, but with war looming all around us, it may be a while before this can happen."

The Empress flew a chartered AeroKal flight with a small retinue of security to the Northern Empire. She intended to travel incognito while in Dolgava, but was immediately recognized by the Dolgavan population and was met by admirers every where she turned up. On her first day in country, she was interviewed by nationally famous cultural reporter Andrejs Bērziņš, who asked her all kinds of questions about Kalistan and what she hoped to see in Dolgava. Following the interview, which was carried on the Evening News, the Empress set out to see the Dolgavan Capital. Taking several days to tour the Capital, Her Imperial Majesty reportedly found its architecture, nightlife and culture very enjoyable. "The Empress visited art and history museums, and with the help of a local interpreter who she hired, learned quite a lot about Dolgavan history and culture," reported Wilson. She even got in a few frames at one of the Capital's many bowling allies.


Empress Nicolette boards a bus to see a local concert, invited by school children

The Empress then rented a villa in neighboring Kirzon Valley. "Empress Nicolette took in a popular spa, sampled lots of Dolgavan food, and met with school children, who invited her for a night out at a concert where a local hard rock band played. The Empress was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet with Dolgavan people, and enjoy cultural events." The Empress even had the opportunity to participate in a Brethrenist Meeting while in Kirzon Valley. "She noted the similarities between Kalistani and Dolgavan Brethrenist practices, and was informed that Brethrenism is still such a tiny faith in Dolgava, but there are more than 300 members of the Dolgavan Yearly Meeting, about half of whom attend a monthly meeting. The Empress noted that the Dolgavan meeting was considerably shorter than her own Kaliburg Meeting."

Following her relaxing week at the spa, the Empress returned to Aikums for a few days where she was invited to meet with Empress Konstanja lll of Dolgava. "The Meeting was an informal tea at the Imperial Palace," said Wilson. "Cameras were not allowed at the meeting, but the two Monarchs enjoyed spending time with one another and getting to know each other. Konstanja mentioned that the next time The Empress visited Dolgava, she should not come incognito, but should make a formal State visit of the entire affair, but Empress Nicolette politely responded that she wanted to have the opportunity to see the country and meet the people, and that goal would have not been served had there been all sorts of pomp and circumstance surrounding her visit."

Konstanja reportedly asked Empress Nicolette about her opinion concerning the war, and the Empress answered that Kalistan seeks only peace, and has no position on the matters leading to the war or on the conduct of the war. "Her Imperial Majesty told the Dolgavan Empress that Kalistan stood ready to assist in any humanitarian, peaceful service that Kalistan could play that does not involve hurting or killing, but focuses on helping and rebuilding. Kalistan will help all parties, but naturally, she hopes that Lourenne will find a way to make peace, as she fears for the men and women of Lourenne who will have to fight in the war. She also reminded the Dolgavan Empress that Indrala has offered to mediate the conflict, and this would be something that Kalistan would be interested in assisting with if at all possible."


Empress Nicolette meeting with Dolgavan Skaters in Aikums

Following the afternoon's informal meeting the Empress Nicolette took her leave, and visited a local skatepark where she met some teenaged skaters. She talked with them about how they felt about peace, and about music, and what they wanted to do with their futures. The kids were surprisingly candid with Her Imperial Majesty, and said that they really enjoyed Kalistani music, but preferred Dolgavan music. "The kids stated that they thought the Vrassan was too difficult to understand and Kalistan hasn't produced a lot of good music recently, so naturally they prefer their own nation's music. The Empress said she understood that sentiment." After some pictures, the Empress bid farewell, and headed to the airport to return to Kalistan.

"The Empress thoroughly enjoyed her trip to Dolgava and hopes to return following the war, to more completely explore the country and formally visit the Empress. Meanwhile," Wilson added, "She hopes to begin regular correspondence with Empress Konstanja."

So much for the Empress' first international trip.

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ODEN Holds Peace Concert
Empress Attends concert and Meets Citizens
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
October 17, 5473


Empress Nicolette looks forward to Peace Concert

ODEN-K joined with KRTVN 7 to hold the first major Concert event in Kalistan in decades. The concert, titled "The Peace Concert" has been hyped on KRTVN radio and television for more than a month, and aimed at bringing a celebratory atmosphere back to Kalistan, as the rest of the world continues to destroy itself in inexplicable warfare. The event was held at Sulari Stadium in downtown Sulari. In attendance was Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Nicolette, who flew to Sulari for the event, and more than 55,000 music fans who packed the stadium and partied all night long to great Kalistani Music.

The one night event featured more than 15 bands. It was largely held to be a Mini-GanJam, mostly because the music showcase was sponsored by ODEN-K and recreational drugs were available on site. Empress Nicolette, interviewed by Ananto Hoy, said of the event: "We would not miss this event for anything. We have arrived with our friends, and ODEN has thus far treated us very well. We had the opportunity to meet with other concert goers here at the stadium before the program began and we were asked to offer a short statement to start the show. Now that this is over, we look forward to all the bands, and the sights and the sounds, and yes, we dare say, we do intend to sample some of the Products."


Alternative Hip Hop quintet Ganja Conscience Leads off ODEN/M7 Peace Concert in Sulari

The show opened with Yoshimi Hip Hop Band Ganja Conscience, who got the crowd to their feet with several conscious hip hop tracks. "Its a peace concert," said MC Free Thought. "So naturally, we talk about what we know, which is peace, and unity of all the scenes, and living life to the fullest in full positivity. War can't get us down, but maybe people in the world can check how we do here in Kalistan, and feel like maybe they should join us here." The band completed their set and then played three encores to wild applause.


Explode with a Whisper debuts at Peace Concert in Sulari Stadium

The show continued with more hip hop and hard rock as the sun went down, and then the gritty rock quartet Explode with a Whisper took the stage. "This was our first like really big show," said rhythm guitarist Diane Poe. "It was so intimidating through Green Mountain's set (the band that played before EwaW) to see all the crowd going crazy and all these mosh pits and everything. But thankfully, I think they like noisy distortion and so once we kind of got into the groove, the crowd's energy sort of carried us." Lead Guitarist and Diane's sister Helen finished the set by starting her acoustic guitar on fire. "A sacrifice," said Helen, "To the God of war. Maybe he'll give the people of Terra a rest from combat." The band dedicated their set to the sailors of the Third Fleet, presumably from Lourenne.


Rasezanai Youth mixes reggae, Dub and Hardcore Punk for a wild set starting at Midnight

As the clock struck midnight, the mood shifted from rock, grit and hip hop to hardcore punk and dub reggae. Those two radically different sounds were represented by one band, Addisjah's Rasezanai Youth, who are primarily punk rockers, but take a lot of inspiration from reggae and dub. "We like to play a likkle dub to kind of cool the crowd out," said Lead singer and band frontman George Mendes. "It also gives me time to light a spliff and have bout half a puff before we kick it back up again!" The set was filled with moshing and stage diving while the band whipped the crowd into a fevered pitch, and, according to ODEN-K, more marijuana was sold during the Rasezanai Youth's set than at any other point in the evening. The RY were followed by protest rockers Fist in the Air, who sang songs promoting peace and an end to the so-called Hubris War, and symbolically protested the war by disrobing on stage and encouraging concert goers to follow their example.


Show Closers Lysergamide brings the Acid back to Kalistani Festivals

The final act of the night was Lysergamide, who took the stage well after 3am, and played a three hour long set. Lysergamide promoted LSD from the stage and opened their set with a public service announcement about Flash Blotter, which was being sold at the ODEN K tent. "This acid is far more powerful than ODEN's normal dose," said front man Max Harrison. "I'm just saying, if you aren't too experienced, I would try something a little tamer." With that announcement out of the way, the band kicked into their latest hit single "Nebula" from their second record "Bisque". Lysergamide has moved away from their alt-folk roots and have embraced alternative rock, and their set showcased their harder music what was far more straightforward rock and much less groove/jam style which was featured on their debut. Harrison's put maximum energy and emotion into the show, and by the end of the three hour set, due partly to the length of the set, and partly to Harrison's consumption of acid, weed and rum on stage, his voice was absolutely shredded. The band closed the Peace Concert with a sing-along rendition of "Time for Change", which Harrison asked the crowd to sing, as he no longer has the ability to sing. The 55,000+ crowd happily obliged and then cheered wildly as they began to filter out of the stadium toward their cars.

Saturday Morning in Sulari was a traffic nightmare, but traffic jams and long lines at the NatRail Stations were cleared by Saturday Evening, as people slowly made their way back to their homes.

ODEN reported that the concert was a success, with many voluntarily buying tickets for the free concert. Spokesperson Fran Jensen said "We reported earning more than ₭2.3 million in profits off the ticket sales and concessions. I think Kalistanis were just ready to get back to living life, despite all the dark clouds on all our horizons, and they spent a mountain of money to have a good time." Jensen said the Empress being in attendance was really a very unexpected addition to the show. "We certainly didn't expect her to show up. I think they sent her an invitation on a dare almost. When I heard she came to the show, I took my interns over to meet her. She was very polite and very kind to these teenagers who were working with me, and asked them questions like if they wanted to work for ODEN when they completed National Service, and what they liked about school and who their favorite bands were. She really showed that she was interested. Totally not what we expected. I was happily surprised."

The Peace Concert in the books, ODEN says it is considering sponsoring a full scale GanJam in the near future. "Maybe when the war is over. I don't think many foreign countries are focusing on anything except killing each other at the moment, but we'd ideally like to have international acts at the GanJam, so we will look forward to peace in the near future, so we can do it proper."

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Chancellor Johnson says Kalistan Welcomes Peace
FM Diane Smith is expected to travel to Gaduridos as informal Observer at Peace Conference
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
January 18, 5474


Chancellor Johnson speaks to Kaliburg Polytechnic on Kalistan's Neutrality

Speaking before a packed auditorium at Kaliburg Polytechnic in the nation's Capital, Chancellor of the Empire Michael Johnson went over Kalistan's role in the now concluding war in southern Seleya. "I am proud tonight to announce that our Government has met Her Majesty's mission for Kalistan during this time of crisis," the Chancellor announced. "Her Imperial Majesty's Government conducted itself professionally and set itself as a standard for neutrality in international conflicts, by opening our borders to those fleeing from war, and by serving as an active participant for Peace. In maintaining our strict neutrality, we avoided alienating any nation in the process, and we avoided being dragged into a conflict which did not touch Kalistan's shores. Her Imperial Majesty, the Empress has asked me to thank you, her people, for your steadfast dedication to Kalistan during this international crisis."

Kalistan is one of the few nations in the world whose economy did not suffer serious damage from the international war which claimed thousands of lives and disrupted travel, trade and international relations on all continents. "Kalistan has built itself as a nation of self sufficiency," illustrated Johnson. "We are a nation who trades with all nations for the things we cannot produce ourselves. The production for need model, based on Just in Time supply chain logistics and statistical adjustment may mean that profits in Kalistan are not wild and unimaginable, but it also means that low times are never as bad, shortages can be easily adjusted for, and most consumer demands for non-necessities can be easily met. Our middle path approach between mercantilism and liberalism allows us to not only achieve high levels of relative prosperity for all, but also ensures that Kalistan can meet most of its needs domestically, and embrace trade in foreign goods to satisfy taste, rather than necessity. This insulates us from wars that do not directly affect our shipping channels, which this one did not."

With regard to the end of the war, The Chancellor said that Kalistan still has a role to play. "Her Majesty's Foreign Minister will travel to Gaduridos to informally observe the peace talks and then report back to the Empress. Her Majesty has instructed Dame Smith to keep a low profile at the talks, and look for ways that Kalistan may be of assistance in bringing a lasting peace. But her Majesty feels that these policy options will originate right here in the Empire. I don't expect that Dame Smith will be invited to speak on behalf of Kalistan, nor do I think that Dame Smith was commissioned to speak on behalf of Her Majesty. But observing the talks and bearing witness to the events will allow Her Majesty to develop policies to promote peace from a position of more complete understanding of the viewpoints of the participants. Dame Smith will travel with a small staff, who will assist her in researching the positions presented at the conference."

In closing, Chancellor Johnson said Kalistan welcomes peace. "Some people call this war the Hubris War," he said. "Hubris is a good word for it, but I think I agree with her Majesty who feels that all war represents Hubris. So saying Hubris War is like saying the same thing twice. Her Majesty said that War is a Failure of Imagination. It does not decide who is right; only who is left." The audience politely laughed at this turn of phrase. "But now that it appears that peace, at least between Lourenne and Beiteynu seems to be on the horizon, Her Majesty would like to do all that we can to embrace that and foster it. Because Peace and Understanding has been her policy all along."

As soon as the ink dries on the peace agreements, Johnson said that Her Majesty will return Kalistani Ambassadors to Alduria and Beiteynu to restore normal relations with those governments. Johnson added a special word of thanks to those diplomats and consular staff who remained in country to process visas out of Beiteynu for all fleeing the conflict and danger.

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Empress is Married
ODEN executive Victor Martin may become Emperor Victor I
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
February 18, 5474


Empress Nicolette I and her new husband Victor Martin tie the knot at Imperial Residence

Court watchers who have been growing increasingly anxious over the single status of Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Nicolette are breathing a collective sigh of relief today, after the Empress was married over the weekend at the Ananto Residence in Eveari. Months of speculation were ended when reporters, government officials and friends of the Empress were hastily assembled the Imperial Palace to witness a grand spectacle that Kalistan has not been a part of for more than a century. At the lowkey Brethrenist ceremony, Her Imperial Highness married Victor Martin, the Director of International Sales for ODEN-K. Martin was the top contender among Crown Watchers, and the union was not seen as a surprise by many. "We were more surprised that the two decided to get married now," said social columnist Maggie Reynolds, of La Moda. "Their courtship is less than 6 months old, and while the two have been in public several times, we all expected there to be a much longer dating period."


Victor Martin, ODEN-K Chief of International Sales, in 5473

The timing of the wedding did have some members of the Empress' immediate family scratching their heads. But baby rumors were quickly put to rest by Veronica Ananto, the Empress' mother. "When Nicolette came to me and asked me what I thought about her getting married, I was of course immediately surprised, because I assumed that many days of her being single were still in front of her. But she said she is ready to start her family, and now, with the threat of war steadily decreasing, is a better time than there has been in years. The Empress is not with child, she assured me. These two just decided that it was time for her to think about the future of the family." The Empress turns 43 this year and has been under a lot of pressure to produce an heir, so that may have added to her decision to marry Martin.

The ceremony, which in Brethrenist fashion is usually silent and has traditionally been reserved for friends, family and members of the Couple's Meeting, was held at the Imperial Palace in Eveari. Martin, who is not Brethrenist, was nonetheless welcomed by the Meeting, who spent a week with the couple before the ceremony to ensure that they both had Clearness about what they planned to do. "We don't talk about the discussions in our clearness committees," said Eveari Meeting Clerk Alice Duarte. "But the Committee recommended to the Meeting that they endorse this marriage and take this couple up as a long standing concern for the Meeting. Which is to say, the committee felt convinced that Nicolette and Victor were clear about their decisions, and we as a community should do what we can to support it." Following that recommendation, the Eveari Meeting passed a minute to support the couple and the ceremony began. There was about thirty minutes of silence, as is customary at a Brethrenist Wedding, and most members of the meeting, as well as Nicolette's mother all expressed their joy at the match, and welcomed Victor to the family. The the couple exchanged their rings and made their promises to one another, and then the meeting signed the very ornate Brethrenist Marriage Certificate, and the Empress was married. Following the Meeting for Marriage, the doors were thrown open and reporters and community members were invited in for the celebration of the marriage.


Her Imperial Majesty receives a small present from her young cousin Tommy before the wedding

Martin, who remains a commoner until he is crowned Emperor of Ananto and Kalistan later this year, will be named Count of Dahriel later this week, and will assume formal titles following his coronation. "The tradition in Kalistan has thus far required that both Emperor and Empress be co-rulers of Kalistan," said Reynolds. "But it is unclear whether Nicolette will keep to that tradition. While Martin is expected to become Emperor Victor I Ananto, it is also possible that he may become Prince Consort. There is nothing in the National Law that addresses this, so it is likely that the National Assembly will acquiesce to whatever Her Imperial Majesty wishes to do in this matter."


Her Imperial Majesty Nicolette and new husband Count Victor Martin, pose for wedding photos

When asked if any foreign dignitaries attended the nuptuals, Reynolds answered "None were invited. This was family, friends and residents of Eveari. Her Imperial Majesty's office kept everything on a very short leash.
Our managing editor in Kaliburg didn't even make it here, because it happened very quickly. Luckily, I've been camped out in Eveari for 10 months now. So, when I got the call that it was happening, I rushed to the Palace and luckily got let in." Reynolds was asked if she thought there would be kids soon. "The Empress spoke at the wedding and assured everyone that she and Victor will not waste any time getting their family going, and the married couple slipped out early from the celebration which lasted late into the night," said Reynolds. "All I can say was she looked beautiful, he looked dashing, and I can't wait to cover the royal births."

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Kalistani News in Brief:
Dame Smith to fly to Tian'An, Victor will not become Emperor, Addisjah braces for spillover from Lodamun
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
August 8, 5474


Her Imperial Majesty's Foreign Minister Dame Diane Smith will represent Kalistan in Indrala

Dame Smith to Indrala
In a major break with Kalistan's isolation from foreign affairs, Her Imperial Majesty Empress Nicolette has ordered her Foreign Minister Dame Diane Smith to attend the international conference which is tasked with deciding the new Terran order following the conclusion of the Beiteynu-Lourenne Sea War. The Empress reportedly agrees with centuries of Kalistani leaders that the World Congress, such as it is, has failed to prevent outbreaks of major wars, but thinks that Kalistan should at least be in the room as delegates discuss alignment and how that tends to drag nations into wars that don't concern them. "Her Majesty believes that the Non-Aligned Movement needs to have a say in the putative creation of any new order for the world," said Dame Smith. "I'll travel to Tian'An for the conference, but of course, I have not been authorized to agree to Kalistan's participation in any new international organization that places national sovereignty under the heel of an international authority, especially one which has given itself power. I will be in country to represent the voice of respectful but firm opposition to any such 'order'." While it is likely that Dame Smith will make a stir, it is also equally likely that Kalistan will be dismissed by nations who want to set themselves up as regional or global hegemons and who look to a conference like this to confer on them such legitimacy.

Prince Consort Victor will not be made Emperor
Breaking with Imperial tradition, Her Imperial Majesty Empress Nicolette has decided against asking her government to crown her new husband "Emperor" and Co-Sovereign of Ananto and Kalistan. Prince Consort Victor will retain this title, and will also retain the title of Count of Dahriel. When asked about this decision, Chancellor of the Empire Michael Johnson said, "Our Government's official policy is to support the Empress' policy aims and goals for this Empire. She has informed myself and the Interior Minister that it is her desire that things should remain as they are, and Victor should not co-rule Kalistan with her." Chancellor Johnson said that the Prince Consort has gracefully accepted his role as Prince Consort, and when interviewed about the matter later in the week, the Prince said "Frankly, I'm quite relieved. Her Majesty has a full job, and in all honesty, my aptitude is more along the lines of racing cars in the Grand Prix, and less on the level of telling people how to run stuff. So it's just best if she stays the Empress, and I stick to doing what I know how to do, which is racing cars, boats, doing sick jumps and flying stunt planes." Court watchers are confounded, but the Empress is not known to offer her thoughts on matters like this. Whether this equals trouble in the Royal Marriage is entirely a matter of speculation.

Addisjah prepares for spillover effects from Lodamese Recession
As Lodamun is predicting major economic downturns as a result of the recently concluded war in South Seleya, most of Kalistan has been insulated from the effects. But Addisjah, our major overland port of entry in the north, is in many ways exposed to international markets, and Government economists are now predicting that they will experience spill over downturns from decreased trade with Lodamun. "As the Lodamese economy takes a downturn, Addisjah is expected to also suffer," said Dr. Jill Kreuger of Vrassa District University. "And a downturn in Addisjah, which has been boming these last several years, will tend to drag Vrassa down a ways as well until stabilization can arrive from the National Government." The Vrassan economy is far more exposed to international markets than other Kalistani Duchies simply because they are far more integrated with the Lodamese economy. "Trade volume through Addisjah and Port Swede is perhaps as much as 40% in some years of total international trade," said Kreuger. "So, if the Lodamese economy are buying and selling less, Vrassa is the first place to get hit." It is unclear whether or how far Addisjah will drop, but decreased commercial transportation across the border has already noticably decreased, and there is a report of shortages of some impored goods in Vrassan Stores. The National Assembly is current;y mulling on a stabilization bill for Vrassa, but need to better understand what is needed before they can develop policy. "It's still very early in this cycle, and there are a lot of variables still at play."

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There will be an heir
Imperial Doctor Confirm that the Empress is with child
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
January 31, 5475


Empress visiting sick children at Kaliburg Children's Hospital last month

Her Imperial Majesty's Personal Physician, Dr. Margaret Ball-Stuart, confirmed to the Press this week that the Empress and Prince Consort are now officially expecting in a child. "Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Elizabeth is expecting," said Dr. Ball last night, in a brief public statement. "Following routine medical examination, the Empress was found to be 16 weeks into her pregnancy. The pregnancy is progressing on pace, the Empress is healthy and except for bouts of morning sickness, is feeling strong and is keeping a positive mental attitude. Both The Empress and the Prince Consort are very happy to be expecting their first child, and will receive excellent health care throughout the entirety of the pregnancy, especially due to the increased risk to health of both mom and baby given the Empress' age."

Crown watchers, who have been waiting for this news for almost a year, were reportedly overjoyed to hear that an heir is on the way. "I think the Empress is keeping her family matters very close to the vest," said royal gossip columnist Blake Roberts. "She usually doesn't share a lot of news about her personal life, so this announcement coming so close to the actual event is guaranteed to set us all positively buzzing looking for whatever details we can get. This is what is so exciting about this Empress! She always just keeps us all on our toes and wanting more!" Others speculated on whether the child would be a boy or girl, and what its name could possibly be.

"We are already seeing sports book betting on the sex of the baby in Sulari," said royal watcher Dana France. "The line on boy is currently at +127. As we get more news, that number will change, so we'll see wagering become more aggressive during the next few months." Bookies in Sulari and Luxon are taking all kinds of parlays and exotic bets and wagering on the royal heir will likely be one of the hot tickets this year.

Exciting news for the Empire: The direct line of the Anantos will continue for another generation, and the Institutionalists can now relax.