Politico: a city-states spinoff

[Galloglasses]

Fable, just go ahead with the people you have, do not worry about applicant size right now. People will seek to join later on int he game after seeing how it is played.

[Qeztotz]

I agree, im anxious to play this new gaming thingy.

[Formless Fable]

Ok, Im working on getting ready to properly start this now, but this doesn't mean that you can't join! more signups are still welcome from those interested in getting a good starting position.

[Mirdini]

definitely interested in watching this, if I have time this week I'll see if I can't find time to make a signup thing (in this post).

[Laset]

yeah I'll work on a signup. Do you still need states or just politicians?

[Formless Fable]

I no longer need state apps, but more characters are welcome! it will take me a while to start the game as I am typing out short descriptions of all the states and the foreign countries in the world.

[Galloglasses]

I no longer need state apps, but more characters are welcome! it will take me a while to start the game as I am typing out short descriptions of all the states and the foreign countries in the world.

FLUFF FOR THE FLUFF GOD

STORIES FOR THE STORY THRONE

[Qeztotz]

FLUFF FOR THE FLUFF GOD!!!!!
FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS, FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS, FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS, FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS, FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS, FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS, FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS, FLUFF, CUTENESS, RABBITS
(reference to kharn the betrayer)

[vengefulAmbition]

I'll get in. I'll edit this post when I've filled out the application.

Character name: Kazka Angzet (Pronounced "kaz-kuh ong-set")

Character background: Angzet's father was a social worker who caught a terrible chronic disease from a suffering family. Before it killed him, the disease was passed on to his children, Kazka and his sister Spirra, whom both suffered major physical damage as a result of its treatment- Kazka's hair turned white, and his irises red, and Spirra lost her sense of taste, later developing a speech impediment. Kazka blamed these misfortunes on the cynicism of society itself, questioning why the people accept that widespread poverty is an acceptable norm in a modern world. His father's life insurance paid his way through a prestigious boarding school, where Kazka was surrounded by pompous and arrogant teens from rich families. During this time Kazka buried himself in his studies and graduated two years early while dual-enrolled. Ignoring his own growing cynicism, he began to suspect that society was rigged against the disadvantaged, and upon leaving school he began to organize a new militant political party- the Social Liberation Party- at age 17. By the time he graduated university two years later, Kazka had organized protests, helped establish unions, and had begun publishing a newsletter promoting his brand of anti-establishment rhetoric. Perhaps most dangerous of all, Kazka has focused heavily on youth, promoting student involvement in the party and assisting in student-driven protests. The chaos and violence resulting from his organization has made him an enemy of the general public.

Initial ideology: Militant Anti-Establishment Socialism, Youth-Oriented Leadership

Additional info: Kazka stands about 5'7", or 1.7m, and is pale and gaunt from poor health, despite the fact that his disease, now known as Systemic Degenerative Endocrine Disease, or SDED, has been in remission for nearly 10 years. He tends to dress nicely and demands professionalism from his party leaders. He faces no challenge from his party due to his charisma and is an undisputed leader. His sister, who has just graduated from the same boarding school, has remained out of the political scene, and refuses to discuss her opinions of Kazka's ideology. He is intensely lonely and frequently spends his nights out on the town.

[Formless Fable]

still working on setting this up, but in the meantime, have the promised mega-fluff providing background info on...well, pretty much everything.

there is no obligation to read it all, particularly not the details on all foreign nations. I know its a big wall of text.

EDIT: THIS IS INTENDED AS A REFERENCE GUIDE TO ALL OF THE THINGS IN THE GAME, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO READ IT ALL NOW



Full-size Map Link

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF KNOWN HISTORY

Eight hundred and thirty two years ago, the medieval monks on the southeast continent declared a new age and drafted a new calendar. Mankind had great civilizations before this time, but documentation of this history is fuzzy at best. Historians still arent sure what actually prompted the new age, although the joining of two ancient kingdoms into new one is the current leading theory. Nevertheless, the calendar they drafted continues to be used today.

Five hundred years ago, the world was in several parts; on the eastern joined continents, the sparse populations of the north and central regions, and the growing nations leaving their middle ages behind in a new wave of technology in the south. On the western island continents, there was the feudal empire confined to the island continent of Vodoba, and the bronze-using monument-carving island kingdoms scattered across the island continents and smaller islands further south.

Four hundred years ago, the people of the southeast decided their corner of the world was not enough, and expanded north. The central-east civilizations of the desert and roughlands were supplanted, but even so, the populations there were largely subsumed – but retained their own identities. This expansion was fragmented, and soon individual nations were seizing the day, gaining freedom in a scrambing free-for-all for foreign territory, supported by nations in the south feuding among one another. The wars would last a hundred years, and by their end, the majority of people in the central-east region would feel little but hostility towards the south, and would much prefer to work with each other to push the last remaining southern influence out of their lands. New kingdoms and republics flourished in the centerlands, with the south no longer possessing any territory in the region, but with southern culture leaving a permanent imprint on the people.

Three hundred and fifty years ago, a second wave of expansion was undertaken, largely by the Gesellan Empire. They headed over the oceans, colonizing islands – but they could never find anywhere that didn't already have its own natives. In their surprise, they also encountered the various factions of Vodoba – an ancient Empire, controlling overseas colonies and a grand continent to the north. The competing factions of old Vodoba were galvanised and united by the discovery of these technologically superior easterners, and their Emperor took it upon himself to copy as much of their technology as possible – before too long, they were producing their own firelock weapons and cannons and even moving ahead of the southeast technologically.

Two hundred years ago, the first few minor states experimented with democratic republican rule, mainly due to poor royal management sparking revolutions. The turmoil that followed this period of revolution and conflict resulted in many old states intervening, crushing this potential disruption of the old order. Republics were suppressed, but the ideology was resilient. Meanwhile, in the centerlands, the various kingdoms and republics spawned there were gradually being joined in a union of crowns, after the new monarchies were found to be inherited by largely the same people as the new royal dynasties intermarried.

A hundred and fifty years ago, there were more revolutions across the south, as republic ideals once again came to the fore. In the Gesellan Empire, the king was forced to abdicate by popular demand in order to avoid a bloody civil war; an act often remembered as the greatest gesture of humility ever made by a Gesellan. Other states were not so lucky, and civil conflict defined this bloody era. By the end of it, most of the southern monarchies were either cast down or limited by consitution. Vodoba, alone on its island, had it worse; their osmosis of southern ideals sparked their own civil war that would rage for twenty years, and prevent them from capitalising on the industrial technology beginning to flourish in their domain.

One hundred years ago, in the midst of the industrial revolution sparked by developments copied from Vodoba, the new Gesellschaft state was at its peak, having gained the most from the industrial technology. It had, after all, been the first to take the design. The new Vodoban republic of this era would not last long, as well, as only thirty years after it ended its civil war, another broke out where reactionary monarchists restored the old Empire.

Just under fifty years ago, the centerlands, now united for some time under a multicultural federal Empire, was overthrown by a republican revolution. The revolution resulted in a short period of chaos, followed by the ascention of a former general as the supreme commander of the new Union of Free Federal States. General Francis Wardell took used the army to gain supreme command of the state and place it under a dictatorship that would last 42 years. His reign would begin promisingly, with a long overdue modernization and industrialization program, but he was unpopular due to his military regime, and over time his nation would lapse into delapidation and fall behind its contemporaries, maintaining its strength mainly through its vast size.

Around this time, a little later than the revolution in the centerlands, Vodoba would undergo yet another revolt. This time, the entire imperial family would be summarily executed, and civil war would rage for two years. At the end of this period, a united communist government would emerge – the modern Communist Confederacy of Vodoba - and begin a program of modernization, trying to return innovation and strength to Vodoba. However, this Communist ideology would place them in direct opposition to the Gesellschaft. The two would begin a passive-aggressive conflict, with neither confident enough to attack the other directly, but both doing their best to spread their ideology and frustrate their opponent's similar efforts.

About twenty years ago, following a period of poor rule by several kingdoms and republics, and frustrated by the competing ideals of Communism and capitalism, a new 'third way' would arise through bloody revolution. Facism would lead to a series of great wars sweeping through the south. In this time, the Tionaliste Union would be formed as the old Tionaliste Republic swept aside its opposition and seized great swathes of land. The Gesellschaft only truly took heed of this bloody conflict when the Tionaliste Union had already taken its fill and wisely chose not to push further – it had fought its way all the way to the border with the Gesellschaft. Now the balance of power changed – Gesellans, Vodobans and Tionians, each presenting a different ideology and fighting a metaphorical cold war. The battlefield was the ideology of the world's states.

Ten years ago, the weapon that would define this war was created, with military scientists working for the Tionaliste Union splitting the atom. They would parade this discovery before the others, implying they ought to submit – long before the atomic weapon was truly ready for battlefield use. A foolish move, as this parading of the atomic weapon provided the Gesellschaft and Vodoba ample opportunity to duplicate the design. All three states keep their atomic secrets much more carefully now, but all three have developed functional atomic bombs, for deployment by the strategic bombers they keep on standby at all hours.

One year ago, General Wardell passed away due to, officially, old age. His demise left a power vacuum in the UFFS – his unpopular reign had inspired many people to take more of an active role in their national politics, while the UFFS's size and Wardell's paranoia had kept the land free of foreign influence. A Transitional Council was established by various parties of the UFFS – both old underground parties, and new ones being called to life through the power vacuum. These parties would flock to government for a year, before a true democratic system was established.

With the Transitional Council's role soon to expire, its constituent parties have a single goal – gain support from the population, and get elected to national government. The UFFS's future is highly unpredictable at this stage – it could become the deciding factor in the ongoing three-way cold war.

A SUMMARY OF THE STATES OF THE U.F.F.S.

CAPITAL DISTRICT
Listed as 'Cap.', this federal territory contains the capital city, and has a million inhabitants. The federal government is directly responsible for its upkeep. Cosmopolitan and striking, the capital city is the jewel of the nation, or so the posters say. A balanced mix of policies prevail here, as there are people from every walk of life.

ALVANIA
A rich industrial state, with a strong manufacturing sector and a high population. Tends to remain rather centrist, politically. The state is famous for its beautiful river valleys.

VARANDUS
Another populous state, this one with a strong commercial sector supporting the local economy. The populace are wealthy and more inclined towards conservatism and right-wing policies. The state is known for its plains and woodlands.

RUDARA
Quite a populous state, this region plays host to the important Rudarain Airbase, which is the strategic nexus of the UFFS Air Force. A conservative population are also inclined towards green policies, as the natural beauty of their state has been sullied in recent decades by heavy industry and coal power plants.

ZALEDE
A primarily agricultural and conservative state. Earns a fair share of wealth off of mines in the mountains, of which copper is the main product. The northeast of the state is sparsely populated, except by farmers, as it is a territorial concession from Vuoria and nobody really wants to live there. There is a large deserted town near the border that is a tourist attraction as well as a makeshift military base.

GRANICA
A centrist state that derives most of its income from agriculture. It is a comparatively poor and sparsely populated state, and the only really notable thing here are the rolling fields of wheat, as far as the eye can see in some places.

WYSPIA
Primarily coastally settled, this state plays host to the Wyspia Naval Base, which is the primary base of operations of the UFFS' North Fleet. The populace are portrayed as right-wing and a touch jingoistic, but in reality they are mellow and centrist.

MEJA
An agricultural state that also hosts a large military base. These folks really are right-wing and slightly jingoistic, although the state is sparsely populated and is mostly known for its expansive grassland borders.

UGAOVIA
Similarly to Zalede, this state is best-known for hosting an extensive mining economy. It is moderately populated compared to its neighbors, and the terrain is primarily semiarid plains.

TURTAIA
A sparsely-populated state straddling a mountain range, this state is most famous for the Turtaia Tunnel, a feat of engineering allowing uninhibited motor access from one side of the mountain to the other. There are also some picturesque terraced farms, with conservative, insular farmers.

HYRINDAL
Hyrindal has a significant black market, and is a hub for criminal activity throughout the UFFS. It is often considered a poor showing by the rest of the states. However, despite this, it is quite a wealthy and populous state, and who knows when the people you could meet here by putting money into the right hands could come in handy? There is also the home port of the UFFS South Fleet here. Finally, this state is also known for its near-continuous rain.

ESTRETTO
The 'joining state' is a balmy tourist hotspot. Its strategic significance also means there is a military base here. The permanent occupants tend to be on the liberal side of the political spectrum, and enjoy the good things in life. Practically everyone here has a tan, and the state has more miles of public beaches than any other in the UFFS.

TESDIPONTE
Tesdiponte is a liberal haven, with relaxed gambling laws and a permeating carefree lifestyle, famed for spectacular sea cliffs. That is, if you can ignore the occasional choking smoke clouds brought about by the heavy industry inland. Liberal and occasionally socialist policies win here.

VAYONA
Vayona is quite a varied state, with heavy industry in the north, semiarid plains in the south, farms and a core military base throughout. Any policy could work here, although the industry-working residents seem inclined towards socialism.

OVEST-FALESIA
This state has a lot of historic culture, from truly ancient citadel ruins to more modern artillery forts. The state also plays host to a major shipping port, which brings in quite a bit of money. Smoky industry is also prominent throughout the south, fuelled by a coal-fire power complex. The population here seems significantly conservative.

GRENYD
Fields as far as the eye can see. Primarily conservative population which supports some liberal policies, with a comparatively low degree of urbanization. The breadbasket of the UFFS, it is known for having whole regions of nothing but crop fields separated by roads and the occasional farmhouse.

THOMIST
An arid state situated partially in a desert, Thomist is home to the only domestic oilfields of the UFFS. There are also some iron mines in the north, near the mountains. A sparsely populated state, but due to its size it still has a fair few voters. They tend to favour a mix of liberal and conservative policies.

NIHLIAS
Another arid state, this one the least populated state in the entire UFFS. Home to some iron mines and the head of a vast green valley. The rest of the valley falls into Miscthar territory, and there are a fair few Misctharians living in this state who support a more open foreign policy.

LATZSA
Part of the 'West Coast' region, this state is home to a modest population of left-wing voters. There isn't much that is special about this state, although it contains a core military base.

GEUMICA
Part of the 'West Coast' region, this state is home to a modest population of voters who sympathise with socialist policies. In the south of this state, the mountains are mined for aluminium. The average standards of living in this state are not as high as elsewhere in the UFFS.

YINVIA
Part of the 'West Coast' region, this state has a majority of socialist voters. The rich few own the aluminium mines along the mountain range and the big farms, and the remainder work for them behind a significant income gap. A poor state with a slightly sparse population.

SEIDOVIA
The extreme west edge of the 'West Coast' region, the population of this state take a strong left-wing stance. The state is home to a core military base, and the population are generally opposed to its presence, although it plays an important role as a base for the western border guards. The state is relatively less-developed, and features some beautiful equatorial rainforests.

BRANDENLIN
An overseas state, this region is home to a comparatively small population of varying political stances. It is mostly known as a tourist destination, but it also plays a valuable role as a southern trade port, through which a good volume of trade passes.

NORTH YOKUBUA
The most sparsely populated part of the island of Yokubua, they favor liberal policies here. There are a number of pristine mountain streams and waterfalls in this state.

EAST YOKUBUA
The industrial heartland of Yokubua, this state has a higher population and the workers generally favor socialist left-wing policies.

SOUTH YOKUBUA
The wealthiest part of Yokubua, the varied population here support a variety of political standpoints, although social liberalism is popular.

WEST YOKUBUA
This state, encompassing the far coast of Yokubua, is of lesser population and primarily agricultural. It is, however, home to the Yokubua Airbase, an air force complex responsible for commanding the air force in the western half of the UFFS.

A LIST OF THE WORLD'S APPARENT INDEPENDENT NATIONS

UNION OF FREE FEDERAL STATES
Formerly an Empire, but the last Emperor was overthrown 43 years ago in a now-unpopular revolution. The vast country was placed under a dictatorship of 42 years, during which time remnants of the monarchy were hunted down and crushed. The dictator, General Wardell, was largely harsh but wise and his reign, though unpopular, began well. Towards the end, however, infrastructure was starting to decay and the economy was sagging. Following the death of the dictator by 'old age', a short period of unrest followed that culminated in the appointment of an all-party 'transitional council'. Now, one year later, the first elections will be held to determine the ruling party by popular consensus. Despite being huge and a definite regional power, it is not currently considered a world power, mainly due to its inability to project power, backwards technology, weak economy and lack of the ability to harness atomic energy.

TIONALISTE UNION
One of the three current world powers. A vast fascist state, which maintains a powerful autocratic single-party system. Currently ruled by their supreme Dirigeant, Rémy Affreux. Economically pragmatic, they boast a powerful industry. Used to be a poorly-run democratic republic before the fascists took power. Some twenty or so years ago they took control of their country and conquered a lot of land in the south, vastly increasing their territorial size. Although various moderately-sized wars ensued, the ongoing power struggle between the CCV and the Gesellschaft was dominating the political spectrum at the time, and as such the Tionaliste Union could elbow its way into becoming a world power with significant gusto. Ever since they gained the power as they currently have, they have been regarded with significant suspicion by the other two world powers. Tionians have a reputation for hard work and a degree of flambuoyancy. Their state is technologically cutting-edge. The first state to acquire atomic energy for military purposes, it is locked in a balanced power struggle with the CCV and the Gesellschaft.

GESELLSCHAFT
One of the three current world powers. A democratic, highly capitalist republic. The state maintains a two party system, which differentiates between two rival parties that hate each other despite professing near-identical policies. Gesellans have a reputation for uptightness and a lack of humor. Champions free market laissez faire capitalism, and views socialism as a threat to world stability. They are the leading member of the Verband Trade Area. Has a powerful and balanced economy and a potent sphere of influence. Their continental military uses modern equipment, but their colonial regiments' equipment is more dated. Was historically an Empire and world hegemon before its democratic revolution during a wave of similar revolutions 147 years ago, and maintains many old colonies, now as full territories. Many other colonies were also released as independent states, which now make up a good part of their sphere of influence. Often rumored to be in decline. An atomic-armed state, it is locked in a balanced power struggle with the Tionaliste Union and the CCV.

COMMUNIST CONFEDRACY OF VODOBA
One of the three current world powers. An island run on Communist doctrine, controlled by a democratic parliament with very little power and a successively-appointed Chief of the Communist Party who really calls the shots. The state maintains a powerful autocratic single-party system. Vodobans have a reputation for being hostile and quick to anger, which is not as well-founded in reality as it may seem – in reality, they are more cautious but still very defensive of their nation, culture and ideology. Despite industrialization, they are still primarily agrarian, and support a large population. For the last 36 years they have been pushing Communist ideologies around the world and supporting socialist regimes, building themselves a sphere of influence. Due to its ideology, it often suffers from poor diplomacy with strongly capitalist states. An atomic-armed state, it is locked in a balanced power struggle with the Tionaliste Union and the Gesellschaft.

MISCTHAR
A parliamentary republic with no official head of state occupying a large, but sparsely populated complex of valleys. Highly defensible terrain and a lack of value in the land has protected them from foreign influence. Striking, verdant valleys which vary from temperate to tropical climates, and strong civil technology benefits this nation. It tends towards capitalist democracy, but is officially neutral, a status enforced by treaty.

VELDIVA GATAVIS
A massive desert nation, with huge swathes of near-valueless sand in its dominion. An absolute monarchy under King Auziliz IV. Low population, weak economy, but very socially stable. Weakly influenced by the Tionaliste Union, and exports oil to them. It was responsible for the Desert Borders Agreement of 820, which, as the name suggests, formalized the borders in the desert some 15 years ago. This was to prevent the ongoing border dispute between Veldiva Gatavis, Violons, the UFFS and Ecapse. After the dispute, the borders were very straight and could be more easily worked out, and border incidents all but ceased.

VIOLONS
A nation of desert and badlands, featuring sparse settlement but high population in each. A dictatorship under Sakuma Hattori, the nation is home to all manner of dangerous fauna. Small army, but due to terrain, would be a strategic nightmare to attack. Generally outside of foreign influence. A net producer of oil, they have a trade agreement with the UFFS to provide them with discounted oil.

ESEM
A small, moderately populated state on the line of lakes dividing the continents. Ruled by a single-party government which is largely itself directed by a military junta. Has a large army, but is technologically backwards and logistically weak. Has dubious territorial claims on all of Eyynid. Generally ignored internationally. Weakly influenced by the Tionaliste Union.

EYYNID
A moderately sized and densely populated coastal country, which is ruled by a hereditary dictator, currently Rahu Rastravan. Strongly in the influence of the Tionaliste Union, the state has a military alliance and various trade pacts with them, and it is often said that without Tionaliste aid, they would collapse economically in less than three years.

HAUTCOLLINE
A moderately-populated Tionaliste puppet state. Fascist and introverted, prospective dplomats will need to deal with them through the Tionaliste Union. They suffer from significant unrest, as before becoming a puppet they spent around ninety years as a constitutional monarchy, under which they had more freedoms.

BEDETRA SR
Bedetra Socialist Republic. A backwards, mountainous country of moderate population, run by an authoritarian socialist council. Their current head of state is Kiral Linalla. A close ally of the CCV, they have the distinction of being the only constitutionally socialist country on the southern continent. Their diplomatic policy in this regard is introverted, and they mostly rely on agrarian self-sufficiency.

ANSE
A small country controlling the coast of the Anse Bay, from which it derives its name. It is a presidential democracy, and is strongly influenced by the Gesellschaft. It has a weak economy and relies on trade for most goods.

DAKSINA
A smallish country with a comparatively high population level. A constitutional republic, it claims independence of any great power, but nevertheless appears to be in the sphere of the Tionaliste Union. Politically hostile to what it percieves as attempting to influence its policies.

ECAPSE
A moderately-populated country with a strong industrial economy. A single-party dictatorship, it aligns itself with the Tionaliste Union, although largely out of fear. Its economy operates largely on free-market principles, and it has friendly relations with the Gesellschaft. Economically reliant on a variety of trade agreements with the Tionaliste Union and its sphere for supplying its industry.

SOPAZYT
A fascist dictatorship under Zoja Drajka, unusual in its considerably high civil liberties for a fascist state. Has a military alliance with the Tionaliste Union and is firmly a part of their sphere, with various economic agreements in place. Has attempted to influenced Tionaliste policy a few times, every time getting rebuffed and politically humiliated. Considered something of a mixed blessing by the Tionian population.

PEDENY
A moderately-populated country famed for its rolling flatlands and picturesque terrain. Aligns with the Tionaliste Union out of fear of conquest, but also maintains cordial relations with the Gesellschaft. Technically democratic, elections were suspended twenty years ago during the Tionaliste wars and have not been restored. Unrest is growing because of this.

OKOPZIEMA
A capitalist and democratic state, this consititutional monarchy is ruled over by Henryk II of Zakres. Closely aligned with the Gesellschaft and is under a military guarantee of protection. Part of the Verband Trade Area.

GEFRORENOST
A capitalist state on the frigid south coast, with a moderate population. It is part of the Verband Trade Area and is moderately aligned with the Gesellschaft, although it dislikes the Gesellan policy of possessing military encampments in their lands. Their harsh, cold terrain has been used to their defense numerous times.

ACHTERLAND
A democratic and capitalist state that is closely aligned with the Gesellschaft. They have a potent economy and play a key role in the Verband Trade Area, which they are a part of. They have a large army and are allied with the Gesellschaft.

WARENNEN
A capitalist dictatorship loosely aligned with the Gesellschaft. Ruled by Adelbert Zilver, the state has significant nationalised industry, but free markets flourish in deregulated sectors. Part of the Verband Trade Area. Relations with the Gesellschaft are sometimes strained, but their mutual interest in opposing the Tionaliste Union keep them together.

EENZAME DAL
A democratic and capitalist state that is closely aligned with the Gesellschaft. Their weak economy is propped up by large debts owed to the Gesellschaft. In order to help pay for the debts, they allow Gesellschaft to station troops on their borders with Bedetra. They wish to be part of the Verband Trade Area, but their toxic economy has prevented their entry up until now.

HORQUEY
A parliamentary constitutional monarchy under king Eugen III z Rovin. The king possesses a lot of power, and as such the power of the democratic parliament is limited. They claim neutrality, but listen more fondly to suggestions from the Gesellschaft, sometimes to the degree that they might be considered members of their sphere of influence.

POBREZIA
A republic, formerly an absolute monarchy. The king was deposed with marginal foreign influence around ten years ago, and the ensuing democratic government has favored the Gesellschaft ever since. Firmly in Gesellschaft's sphere of influence.

KANON
A constitutional monarchy operating under capitalist principles – the economy is however primarily agrarian and quite weak. Weakly influenced by the Gesellschaft, this state claims neutrality. Nominally headed by the ceremonial monarch Alexej VIII. Friendly relations with the UFFS has allowed them to cooperate well in the past. High civil and political freedoms are a hallmark of this country.

SUPREMA CETATE REPUBLICII SOCIALISTE
'Cetate Supreme Socialist Republic'; this Communist state is firmly influenced by the CCV. Commonly known by its initials, SCRS, this state is under the dictatorship of the enigmatic Premier Neculai, who is only a little megalomanical. The state is highly introverted and trades more or less only with the CCV, maintaining an armed border patrol at all other times and rejecting diplomacy from any non-Communist state.

SREBRO
Officially 'Svobodno Sŭstoyanie na Srebro', the Free State of Srebro. Weakly influenced by the Gesellschaft, this state maintains an armed border with the SCRS only. It is a very capitalist republic – exploitation is common and living standards are low. The presidential office is purely ceremonial, with the office of the premier controlling all the real power, and mostly using it to line their own pockets. Corruption, exploitation and poor living standards are hallmarks of this state.

TSARSTVO
A semi-socialist democracy, this state maintains cordial ties with Gesellschaft at the expense of relations with the CCV. It has clarified its economic policy as 'market socialism', which seems to be mostly capitalism that the state owns huge monopolies in. Corruption, particularly bribery, are extremely common here.

VAPULG
An absolute monarchy, currently ruled by King Maloumen V. Strongly influenced by the CCV, it trades profitably with them, although it tries to be self-sufficient. A weak agrarian economy is complemented by a low population to make this state relatively powerless. Maintains cordial relations with its neighbors, regardless of alignment.

VUORIA
A mountainous country with a moderate population, a weak free market economy, and a jingoistic dictator. High Commander Tuomo Rikhard has, however, had his teeth blunted by defeat several times – the worst of which from when he tried to attack the UFFS, and lost a lot of land – half of what makes up the modern state of Zalede – in repirations. He often bemoans 'the day the UFFS took a square bite out of our beloved homeland', claiming the UFFS was the aggressor in that war and using the resultant revanchism to stir up patriotic fervor against the UFFS. He aligns himself with the Tionaliste Union, although they do not aknowledge him. Although still belligerent in diplomacy, Commander Rikhard has not actually declared war for twelve years and counting, a new personal record for him.

OLKAASIA
An authoritarian dictatorship with a semi-socialist economy. Weakly influenced by the CCV, and a member of the N-Grupp. Well-industrialised and modernized in comparison to their contemporaries, with a moderate population and small-but-potent armed forces.

SNIEGIA
A consitutional monarchy operating on socialist principles, with a monarch wielding their share of power. A member of the N-Grupp, it is moderately aligned with the CCV. King Perttu III rules at the moment, having succeeded his father Perttu II just three years ago. His reign has seen a slow shift away from socialist policies, as his general populace desire, but he is facing resistance from his predominantly-socialist appointed-for-life government. This state has a low population and weak economy.

VALDEIAN EMPIRE
An absolute monarchy. A strong, socialist-market economy backed up by considerable military might under Emperor Hjalmar I. Slightly technologically backwards. Sparsely populated in the north, and more moderately so in the south. Leader of the N-Grupp (Nordstatgrupp), an economic and military cooperative area. Claims neutrality from the three world powers, and is attempting to develop its own atomic program, without much success. The three world powers are wary of this state, but consider their ambitions mostly hot air and promises that they are incapable of fulfilling.

ISAVFALL
An absolute monarchy. Copies economic policy off of the Valdeian Empire. Sparsely populated throughout – practically nobody lives away from the south coast - and considerably weaker than the Valdeian Empire, who they are in the sphere of. They are also marginally influenced by the CCV, and are a member of the N-Grupp. Currently ruled by King Waldemar II.

BEFOLKINGEN SR
Befolkingen Socialist Republic. Formerly an absolute monarchy, but suffered a Communist revolution and is now a Communist Dictatorship under Torgeir Oakta. Sparse population, weak economy, reliant on raw materials exports. In the sphere of the CCV, and a former member of the N-Grupp – they were formally expelled from the group after the revolution. They still claim membership on occasion.

NORDKANT SR
Nordkant Socialist Republic. Formerly a constitutional monarchy, before a Communist party won an election and radically reformed the country twenty years ago. A firm member of the CCV's sphere, their low population masks a reasonably strong industrial economy. Thrives on resource imports from the Befolkingen SR and goods exports to the CCV. Was a founding member of the N-Grupp, but left shortly before the election of the Communists to satisfy internal nationalist factions. Currently suffering a degree of unrest due to harsh Communist policies.

ANISKAD
A democratic republic and a former Gesellschaft colony, this capitalist state is firmly in the Gesellschaft's sphere. Moderately populous but economically weak, with technological acquisitions mostly dependent on trade with the Gesellschaft to their north.

ARATTU
A nominally-democratic republic and a former Gesellschaft colony, this state dislikes its colonial past, is hostile towards the Gesellschaft and is drifting towards the CCV's sphere of influence. Economically weak and moderately populous, like Aniskad, it is mostly dependent on the CCV and leftover Gesellschaft machinery for technology.

EBIYA
A democratic republic and a former Gesellschaft colony, the populace of this state resents the Gesellschaft for its colonial past, but nevertheless the government retains cordial relations with them. Has an intense rivalry with Kliyany kept in check by Gesellschaft oversight. Populous, but economically weak and technologically backwards.

KLIYANY
An absolute monarchy and former Gesellschaft colonial protectorate. Currently ruled by Olabode IX (the local monarchs continued to rule under Gesellschaft mandate during the protectorate). Maintains fairly cordial relations with the Gesellschaft, and has a rivalry with Ebiya. Technologically backwards, though it is making progress towards raising its technological level.

TIDAKAVA
A military dictatorship, and a former Gesellschaft colony. It severed ties with the Gesellschaft when the dictator took power and dissolved the old democratic government. Aligns itself with the CCV. Ruled by the despotic General Bunudiri. Economically weak and highly populous along its coast, this nation boasts a significant conscript military, which it uses to threaten its neighbors in Keselamatan – although it is under an embargo by the Gesellschaft.

KESELAMATAN
A democratic republic, and an ally of the Gesellschaft. Formerly their colony, they maintain close ties with the Gesellschaft to protect themselves from potential belligerence from Tidakava. Obviously, aligned with the Gesellschaft, who they export most of their resources to in order to support their economy.

KRITIKALY
A democratic republic, and an insignificant former Gesellschaft colony. A low population, a weak economy and no natural resources worth speaking of , along with a wall of mountains, have been their main protection from invasion by their belligerent neighbors in Tidakava. Nevertheless, the Kritikaly state is a proud one, and it boasts of its comparatively weak affiliation with the Gesellschaft.

MENDERITA SR
Menderita Socialist Republic. A former Gesellschaft colony that was influenced by the CCV and subsequently had a Communist revolution. Allied with the CCV and exports many resources to them, but externally has remained quiet and introverted. Ruled by their Communist party, which governs as a group and is apparently corrupt.

PERAKY
A socialist state run under flawed democratic principles. Economically weak, and reliant on trade with the CCV. Not a former Gesellschaft colony, unlike most of its neighbors, and was inspired to overthrow the local monarch by influences from neighboring CCV colonies.

PATILESAJAN
A Communist state and former Gesellschaft colony. Ruled by the enigmatic Patilesaji Worker's Party Secretary, Emmanuel Koupe, this state overthrew its Gesellschaft-instigated democracy the year after they gained independence. The regionally strong economy, high coastal population and large conscript army make this state a force to be reckoned with. They place their allegiance firmly behind the CCV, who they have a military allaince and many trade agreements with. Their weakest aspect is their dated technology.

SABZILE
A moderately populated landlocked former Gesellschaft colony, this state is run under democratic republic institutions set up by Gesellschaft when it decolonized the region, like a fair number of its contemporaries. However, this state fairs better than its neighbors in that it has managed to remain roughly parralel with Gesellschaft on the technological curve, although at the cost of huge trade deficits leading to high government debt. On the flipside, the economy is booming, and the government is starting to pay its debts back.

ANTARCTIC CONTINENT
A huge mass of ice, suspected to hold great oil reserves. It is protected from settlement by a treaty signed by the Gesellschaft and the CCV, which was subsequently forced onto the Tionaliste Union by them. The treaty is set to expire in five years, at which point the Tionaliste Union will likely do all it can to prevent another being drafted.

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thanks to a couple of people for helping me write bits of that

[Qeztotz]

So, Hmm.
we are one of the biggest nations there is, In very deep political doodoo and yet noone has tryed to nibble at our toes yet?
Excellent, taking the world will be easier than I imagined, with all these gullible fools of countries and whatnot.
From what ive skimread the Geseclewatsits and the socialist union of sowhereorother are probably going to be quite friendly to us, if a little bit on the strained side. Whereas the Tionymajigs are being bastards and trying to claim the oil reserves in the Antarctic. As the russian guy in battlefield 3 says: This cannot happen.
I have to say, choosing an ex army polititian wasnt the greatest move I have ever made, seeing as the old dictator wasnt that good. I hope to be in great relations with all of you, and despite being in a game against each other, i hope we can move towards a great and noble common goal:
Fucking everyone elses shit up

[Formless Fable]

You have 'had your toes nibbled' at least once. you got land out of it.

The three world powers are more worried about each other than they are you. if you do manage to get your country into fighting shape, they'll be more likely to view you as a threat. if you get your country into fighting shape and then take it to outright belligerence, they'll probably stop nibbling each others toes and blow your legs off with nuclear weapons.

even so, if it wasn't clear, the most dangerous enemies you'll probably be facing are each other.

[Qeztotz]

I think that this belligerence plan sounds good lets do it
BOOOOM!
RUN!


ok, *panting heavily* on second thoughts, lets just sit tight for the moment.
also, are there new technologies that come out from time to time, like facebook to talk to your voters, or nuclear misslies instead of bombs later on?

[Galloglasses]

How about we dont piss off the superpowers that arent in the political shithole just yet? That said, I swear, if you assholes go UKRAINIAN on me when I am making a speech you wont live to regret it.

[Qeztotz]

i dont know what that means so i am just going to nod and say yes
'yes'

[Formless Fable]

This might help dispel confusion about NPC alignments.



either that or itll create it.

EDIT: still working on the opening thing, haven't forgot

[vengefulAmbition]

Would now be a good time to determine your characters' home states? Yinvia or East Yokubua seems like a good match for my character's background.

[Qeztotz]

My guy would come from vayona if this is the case

[Galloglasses]

Huh our Federation used to be an Empire, and relatively recently at that, looks like my guy's Sovereigntist leanings will be able to find somewhat fertile soil among the people, I can start in almost any state.

However, our lack of nukey nuke potential is a tad bit worrying

LETS GO A'SPYING

[Qeztotz]

We should also influence the terrorists in other nearby countries, to cause upheaval and give us a reason to invade

[Galloglasses]

We should also influence the terrorists in other nearby countries, to cause upheaval and give us a reason to invade

Two things:

1) even when the USA and Russia did that in the IRL cold war it didnt always have intended effects, was prone to failure, and sometimes backfired INCREDIBLY. Our nation is nowhere near on par with the USSR or USA of the real world at the beginning of this scenario, so we are unlikely to project such devastating underhanded force this early

2) It will be really really REALLY obvious to the other three super alliances what kind of shit we are trying to pull if we do decide to do it. We dont want their attention until we are good and ready.

[Qeztotz]

No i meant to influence the little countries around us, the desert nations around us. If we claim that we have ethnic reasons they cant argue against us.

[Galloglasses]

No i meant to influence the little countries around us, the desert nations around us. If we claim that we have ethnic reasons they cant argue against us.

WE cant claim ethnic reasons. We are not even sure what the primary imperial culture is and we arent a nationalist state. If we were still an Empire we'd have causus belli

[Galloglasses]

No i meant to influence the little countries around us, the desert nations around us. If we claim that we have ethnic reasons they cant argue against us.

WE cant claim ethnic reasons. We are not even sure what the primary imperial culture is and we arent a nationalist state. If we were still an Empire we'd have causus belli

[Formless Fable]

Alright here goes everything

832

THE NEW RISING POLITICIANS

Kurns M. Lackendale
An idealistic man with a huge moustache, Lackendale rose to political prominence in his home-town by promising to improve the future of the UFFS, before later being chased out with his family due to his wife being accused of theft. He joined the Transitional Council shortly after the death of General Wardell, and is a prominent and popular figure due to his aid in transitioning the country to democracy. A common saying is that his large moustache was created due to an encounter between him and atomic energy, but this may be an an apocryphal urban legend.

Edwin Chalk
Chalk's rise to fame occurred when he seized control of a state with a private military force following the death of General Wardell. His actions were a part of the initial unrest, but his military control of the region brought relative stability and prevented the rampant vandalism and looting which was inflicted on other parts of the country. He later joined the Transitional Council, more out of pressure from the other statesmen than anything, and is favored by other capitalists.

Charles Ui Jonath
Harking back to the pre-Wardell Imperial era of the UFFS, Jonath has managed to gather a considerable amount of policial support, which secured him a place in the Transitional Council towards the end of its year-long tenure. His unorthodox views are disliked by many, but nevertheless he has shown the potential to be a serious political contender in the UFFS. His relatively huble origins may have something to do with his success.

Franz Ludvich Magnus-Carlsen
With an upper-class background, Magnus-Carlsen would not be someone you would expect to be a Communist. However, in the closing months of Wardell's reign, he stole the deeds of his father's factory and established the Worker's Union, which grew to become one of the largest unions in the east. His leadership of the influential union gained him a voice in the Transitional Council, but the fact he was willing to steal deeds and unlawfully begin the Worker's Union has made the rich hostile to his policies and they have even (unsuccessfully) attempted previously to brand the union an unlawful organization and force it to disband.

Marzo Vuelredel
Vuelredel was, from a young age, raised religiously in a church school in the West Coast region, Yinvia to be specific. His idealistic religious preaching gained him a considerable following, even before General Wardell died. His speeches of an egalitarian society that would become a technological paradise were popular among the people, and gained him enough political leverage to join the Transitional Council. However, his highly religious background and some dark rumors about his private life have alienated him from some groups.

Ersage Vertunbaund
Described by many as a bully, Vertunbaund gained political leverage using his wealthy-family connections and great ambition to see himself on the top of everything. A relative newcomer to the political scene, he became a member of the Transitional Council mostly by paying off and threatening others who sought to take up the transitional local role of his home region. His policies are not as popular as some others, but his ruthless way of running a business has led some rich capitalists to attempt to emulate him.

Trofy Litznel II
Trofy's uncle Darius Litznell was one of the founding members of the Transitional Council, before he and his son were assassinated. Trofy, unfazed, took up their positions more or less because he was the only person brave slash stupid enough to quickly step into the shoes of someone who had been assassinated. As he is young and idealistic, he has probably been considered too ineffective to assassinate as of yet, but his idealism, augmented by his position in the limelight of the Transitional Council, has actually made him quite popular and garnered him a significant following.

Sir Corvus Raptora
Raptora was born into an industrial family, but due to being a youngest son, was unable to take a role in the industry himself. Instead, he went into law enforcement, managing a local gendarmerie militia. Frustrated with his brothers, he left town, leaving them to feud over control of the militia and each other's assets. Instead he joined the national army, and personally served under General Wardell. He fought in the war with Vuoria, and was promoted rapidly. His units were some of the best in the Federation when he retired. His lasting influence with the army earned him a seat in the Transitional Council a few years later.

Zahn Zerrianteen
Zerrianteen was the leader of a criminal gang while General Wardell ruled over the UFFS. His influence grew exponentially over his lifetime. When Wardell died, Zerrianteen used his gang to take control of the state of Hyrindal – an act which somehow earned him a seat in the Transitional Council for 'taking the initiative and restoring order in Hyrindal'. He's not sure if everyone else knows of his past or not, but he's not going to complain about this sudden uplifting of his status – power is power, after all, and he could gain a lot from (ab)using his new status.

Kazka Angzet
Angzet's unusual appearance derives from a disease he caught while young, for which he blames the cynicism of society. He resisted the rule of Wardell with youth movements and anti-establishment rhetoric, gaining a degree of notoriety. When Wardell died, it was only natural that a figure as well-known as him would be called upon to join the Transitional Council, although it took so long to track him down that he only joined the council near the end of its one-year tenure. How could he refuse, after all? This was his biggest chance to truly make a difference.

POLITICS IN THE U.F.F.S. FOR DUMMIES

The UFFS has established a basic federal democratic system in the past year, and this will help you members of the Transitional Council get to grips with it. Reading this is important to for understanding how things are going to work around here. We will explain things to you as they become relevant. Things that are not yet relevant will be hidden beneath the ones that are, but you can look at them if you like.

Parties
Each of you has a following of some kind – you ought to formalize that into a named political party to increase your chances of being elected. Parties consist of a head of party – you – and many followers, who you will be able to call upon at will to do your bidding. You probably don't need to know the names of all of your followers unless you give them an important role. If you die for whatever reason, you should at least have a vice-chair of the party to take over in your stead.

Transitional Council
The Transitional Council is being disbanded this year – it has served its purpose as a body to reconstruct the UFFS as a democratic entity. Because of the local and federal electoral system we have established, and the fact that no local elections can be held until two years after the federal election, local independent candidates have been appointed to lead the 26 states until they can have local democratic elections. At this point, party politics will play a role on that front, but until then, it is the federal elections you need to worry about!

Federal Elections
The year of transition is over, it's time to elect our first leading party! Campaigning can be done on as wide a front as you like, and capturing the support of the population is your goal. After all, unless a different way is legislated, your future power is directly proportional to how many votes you get. You could spend more on campaigning in some regions rather than others for more impact, but try not to alienate some states in favor of others.

Electoral Campaigns
Elections can be decided in a number of ways – traditionally, things that have a lot of effect are references to current issues, electoral promises, well-written public speeches and a well-funded campaign. Backing you election with funding requires you to either finance it out of your own pocket, which is understandably very expensive, or it requires to you find support among the corporations willing to donate to your campaign by making promises that would benefit them. Leading a well-known party with a memorable name helps too. Of course, you aren't allowed to engage in election rigging or any of that underhanded stuff! There is no way that you could be allowed to secretly influence the outcome of the election through threats, bribery, or vote manipulation, right? That sort of thing isn't allowed. Don't let us catch you trying it, okay?

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Federal Parliament
Once the elections are complete, you will still have to form a parliament. Every party will gain seats based on how many votes you got, as a proportion of all voters. Any party, or coalition of parties, that gains >50% of the seats will be in power. It is highly likely that you will need to form formal coalitions with other parties to get into power. The leader of the party, or a chosen single leader from the coalition, becomes the President, who has some unique powers. Remember that! If no party achieves the required 50%, then an all-party coalition automatically forms and the party with the most votes' leader becomes president.

Legislating
Legislation can be proposed by any party in power, and requires that >50% of the parliament approve it for it to pass into law. Seats will generally vote in one of three ways; following their leader, following their parties' ideology or following their own common sense intuition. Once again, do not even try to corrupt the vote in any way – strictly not allowed. If a legislation fails to pass, similar legislation cannot be tried again that year. Similar voted approval is required for significant state actions, such as sending military aid or declaring war.

Presidential Powers and Responsibilities
There is no term limit on the Presidency. The President has power of veto over any proposed legislation. In addition, the President can declare war or make other military gestures without requiring a >50% vote, although their military actions can, in turn, be vetoed by a >66.7% majority of the parliament. The president does not lose these powers if they designate a Military Minister who is not themselves.

Next Federal Elections
Federal Elections are normally held every four years, although they are called immediately if a ruling coalition abdicates leadership or is 'thrown out' by a >66.7% vote of no confidence by the parliament.

Local Elections
Local elections are a little different to national elections. They are held every four years, with two years between them and the federal elections. Campaigning is basically the same, although people leaders cannot run for both state posts and the presidency so you will need to name and endorse additional people from your following to run for these posts. The party who gets the most votes will control the state's affairs, with no coalitions or partial rule. A state can only be run by one party at a time. Local politicians can only be ousted before their term is up by a >66.7% vote of no confidence by the state's population.

Local Powers
States can legislate whatever they want with impunity. Sort of. Their legislation can be vetoed by the President or a >66.7% majority of the parliament, and it cannot contradict any existing legislation passed at the Federal level, and must be rendered null and void if any contrary legislation is passed at the Federal level at a later date. In addition, states are currently forbidden from levying local military forces or raising state-specific taxes, although this could be changed at a Federal level later.

Ministerial Powers
The following Ministerial Powers are appointed to ruling party members by the President when he assumes office. The President can vest the powers in themselves or grant them to formerly-unnamed mambers of their own party if they wish, although a degree of delegation is expected.
-Treasury Minister: Responsible for balancing the budget and assigning additional funds to projects and states if they need them. States depend primarily on the Federal Government for financing as they do not levy a census tax.
-Military Minister: Head of the armed forces. In charge of army movements and recruitment. They cannot declare war but can do practically anything else military-related.
-Foreign Minister: Responsible for diplomatic relations with other states. Also responsible for trade.
-Press Minister: Responsible for making public statements to the populace, maintaining governmental support for unpopular actions and covering up government blunders.
This list could be grown if the parliament feels additional specific appointed roles are required and legislates them into existence. As it stands, however, the remaining responsibilities of the state are taken on by parliament as a whole. All ministerial actions can be vetoed by a >66.7% parliamentary vote.

Corruption
Using your political powers to line your own pockets or act in any other corrupt fashion is strictly forbidden. Don't do it. Don't even think about doing it. Please?

THE STATE OF AFFAIRS IN THE UFFS

All states will remain independently-controlled until their democratic elections in two years time.

It is federal election year, and you should all do your best to be elected! The person with the most votes has by far the highest chance of becoming President!

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PMs will be sent out to all players, detailing your specific current situation and a few more player-specific tips for electoral success if applicable. Things such as speeches, debates with other politicians and such should b posted in this thread. PMs will deal with the more technical side, with campaign financing and any potential covert activities you wish to do. As one last note, you can spend more than you have, but it will result in you getting into debt, which can be difficult to pay back.