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| Die Presse; Austrian News | |
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| Topic Started: Aug 8 2013, 02:47 PM (622 Views) | |
| Whal | Aug 8 2013, 02:47 PM Post #1 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Posted Image Austria's premier news outlet for reliable and immediate information. Parliament Passes New Industrialization Bill; Construction Begins on Loki Platforms Posted Image Posted Image Wels, Upper Austria Region Recent rumors regarding a vast and impressive new industrialization program have since been proven true as Parliament announced the passing of the Brunnelaur Bill yesterday afternoon. Although many of the details of said legislation have yet to be fully disclosed, it can be confirmed that a myriad of new government projects are being outlined and organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Agriculture, as well, as some of the leading corporations in the Federation. Austria Metal AG (AMAG), in particular, has been given a substantial government loan to begin construction of new facilities in the highly industrialized region surrounding Linz, as well as the refurbishment of existing factory complexes in various locations nationwide. Upper Austria, undisputedly the most industrialized region of the Federation, appears to be the focus of the new projects outlined by the Brunnelaur Bill, however the agricultural regions of Salzburgerland and Styria have also been mentioned. The relatively quick passing of the bill and it's seemingly low profile in the media have brought on some very staunch criticisms from the population, and unsurprisingly, the Party of the Greens who have been a long-time supporter of the Social-Democrats. Fears of rapid pollution, dangers to the environment, as well as the surrounding population centers have been the forefront of the party's criticisms of such new projects and raise some interesting questions as to why such a bill was supported by the Social-Democrats in the first place. SPO Party Chairperson, Josef Faymann, responded to such fears in a press conference held shortly after the bill's passing. "....to alleviate any fears the Austrian people might have regarding the safety of the environment as a direct result of the Brunnelaur Bill, let me say this. Our government has allocated a great deal of precious time and effort into reviewing the short-term and long-term effects these projects might pose to the environment, and we have concluded that such effects are quite manageable, and will not interfere directly with the daily lives of our citizens. Moreover, any dangers to the wildlife of project areas will be properly observed and corrected should they arise, but we are actively working with environmental agencies to make sure these do not happen." In response to the latter criticisms of his party's support of such a bill despite a large majority of their support deriving itself from the Greens, Mr. Faymann laughed and responded: "You cannot please every member of your supportive entourage every single time. There are bound to be disgruntled supporters at every turn, no matter which side you choose. In our case, the Social Democratic Party views these projects to be exactly what we need to hopefully lessen the nation's unemployment rate, whilst also boosting our ever increasing economy." No matter the opinion regarding the Brunnelaur Bill, it is an undisputed fact that the unemployment rate has increased steadily from 4.22% to 4.27% over the past few months and that any solution to help the now 6,000,000 unemployed workers will undoubtedly be welcome. Whether or not, the newly passed legislation will truly fix the problem once and for all has yet to be determined. In other recent news, construction of the first petroleum platforms on and around Lake Loki in Northern Norway has begun yesterday afternoon. Exclusively the brain child of successful CEO and owner of Stahl Petroleum, Johan Stahl, the joint Austrian-Porcuian enterprise has just been given the green light to proceed with a positive transfer of land from the local population. Sources in the area claim that much of the local population, despite being apprehensive at first, has agreed to sell the land to SP and CCIF for an extremely high price, as well as a promise to be supported by the companies in the future. Additionally, the companies also pledge to offer jobs and health benefits to the people around Lake Loki. Although only a single platform has been started and there are still many years of development ahead before the enterprise's full potential can be met, the large and untapped oil reserves are now successfully on their way to supplying the world for decades to come. Edited by Whal, Aug 8 2013, 02:50 PM.
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| Whal | Aug 29 2013, 02:38 PM Post #2 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Schlesinger Hints at New Foreign/Economic Policy Posted Image Innsbruck, Tyrol Region Chancellor Schlesinger released a statement early yesterday morning possibly hinting toward a new economic policy which could have serious consequences towards the nation's current stance on multiple international issues. The statement was recorded in a relatively brief session the Chancellor held with the press directly following a high profile meeting with members of the cabinet. "...Although I cannot, quite unfortunately, reveal any definite details about policy change at this time; I will say that our current paths towards diplomatic relations with nations of heightened importance, mainly the CMESS, are severely lacking in any actual results, mainly in regard to their occupation of Anatolia and our insistence on referendum. It is for this reason, I have lobbied the President and the cabinet to analyze our current policy and construct a better and more proactive model as a means to achieve a more effective plan of action." When pressed to elaborate more on the actual policy the Chancellor and the cabinet plan to adopt, Herr Schlesinger briefly disclosed the prospects of an increased production and marketing campaign aimed at supporting the goals of democracy and human rights worldwide. Additionally, upon closer analysis of the Chancellor's comments to the press, one can conclude that such a policy may inevitably result in conflict with nations adopting a less liberal platform on social issues, notably the CMESS. "...What I can disclose to the peoples of the Federation is that should this new policy be enacted, economic aide and military equipment will be readily available to any legitimate power determined to fight violations in human rights and political freedoms in the name of democracy. It is our understanding that such measures will not only empower other nations to follow our example, but also to motivate others to adopt policies which adhere to international standards regarding these issues. We will hopefully become the arsenal of democracy." Despite the Chancellor's claims, no change in policy has been adopted at the time of this articles writing and the nation will resume to adhere to the current foreign policy set up under President Krupp's campaign at this time. However, these hints towards a more proactive stance on world affairs have sparked and interesting debate on how the government plans to deal with the increasing tensions between its ally, the Republic of Porcu, and the CMESS and its allies. Additionally, with the ever growing possibility of emergence of the Central European Treaty Organization, the Chancellor and his supporters may be facing an increase in pressure or even the possibility of conflict. To both these claims, the Chancellor has made no comments. Edited by Whal, Aug 29 2013, 02:41 PM.
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| Whal | Sep 15 2013, 09:13 PM Post #3 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Heinous Surprise Terror Plot Unfolds Posted Image Vienna, Capital Region *Breaking News* Several government buildings and civic centers across Vienna were suddenly rocked by multiple explosions just a few hours into the workday today. The effected areas, which have been identified as the Osterstag, the Abwehr Headquarters, the Foreign Affairs Ministry, and the Vienna Grand Metro Junction, have all experienced a terrible and devastating event which can only be described as a coordinated attack. Despite multiple claims of the incident being the precursor to an invasion by a foreign power, it has now been confirmed that the attack was an expertly planned and exercised terrorist plot aimed at disrupting the communication and effectiveness of the federal government, whilst also inflicting a terrible blow to the civilian population. In a brief statement to the press the Minister of Interior, Anke Brandt, clarified the nature of the incident. "Our great country has been the sole victim of a heinous surprise terrorist attack. Any and all claims that these events were the result of a strike by foreign powers should be dismissed as a fallacy. No follow up attacks have been perpetrated against East German personnel overseas, nor have we detected any military buildup around our borders. What we are experiencing is the end result of a determined and well equipped terrorist plot, but I have all confidence in our great nation and its citizens to overcome this dark day." Although the government hasn't released a statement on which organization orchestrated the attack, or whether the bombers were part of a foreign or domestic cell, the incident has left hundreds injured and drastically devastated the government infrastructure within the capital. Not every aspect of the incident has been clarified, but the explosions at the Osterstag and the Abwehr Headquarters were damaged by multiple vehicle IEDS, whilst the Metro and Foreign Affairs Ministry were attacked by assailants wearing personnel explosive harnesses; no bombers were captured or appear to have survived. As more evidence is uncovered surrounding the attack, the public will receive some much needed answers as to why such a devastating attack was able to maim and injure so many innocents. The Chancellor has scheduled a public service announcement later in the week to comfort the nation and reveal the government's course of action. However, until then, the country has been put on a heightened sense of alert and all borders remain closed to restrict travel. Citizens are urged to report any suspicious activity to the bundespolitzei. Edited by Whal, Sep 15 2013, 09:14 PM.
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| Whal | Nov 12 2013, 09:21 PM Post #4 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Occupied Zones Incorporated Into Federation Says Parliament Posted Image Ljubljana, Slovenia Votes were tallied all across Slovenia and Northern Croatia after the multiple referendums, conducted by Osterwehr forces since the formal ending of hostilities earlier this week, were officially concluded. After the last of the votes were counted from the 3rd referendum in Rijeka, Croatia, East German sources were able to conclude the results from the polls: 66% average in favor of direct integration (Slovenia), and 58% average in favor of federal protectorate (Northern Croatia). Dabbling in detail, the two Slovenian referendums were conducted nationwide with polling access made available to all residents of the occupied region. The referendum for both regions provided a choice of 3 options: independence, direct integration into the Federation, and protectorate status from the Federation. The first option would grant the regions full autonomy, but would also subject them to routine evaluations from Vienna in order to maintain a stable presence. The second option would allow the area to be regionalized and become fully integrated Bundeslandes, or provinces, with direct representation in the East German government. Lastly, the third option offered the region autonomy over domestic affairs, yet linked the region to the Federation economically and politically providing East German protection. A fourth option to combine both provinces into a new state was proposed, but rejected as unrealistic to the current situation in the Balkans. In Slovenia, a vote for direct integration won the majority at 66% with 4 million in favor. Now, Austria's 9 regions will now be accompanied by 5 Slovenian equivalents with equal status in the Osterstag. In Northern Croatia, the situation was slightly different with the majority of the population being slightly independent. A series of referendums incurred a result of 58% average for integration with the Federation as a "Federal Protectorate", a new concept proposed by Minister Von Franke to solve the tension between Croatians who wanted integration and those who wanted some form of independence. The newly christened, "Federal Protectorate Region of Northern Croatia" will encompass 3 regional provinces from inside Northern Croatia with power to conduct their own domestic affairs, but are subject to the laws of the East German government. Likewise, Osterwehr forces will encompass the FPR's military garrison, however a local emphasis will be placed among recruits stationed in the area. The FPR's economy will also be integrated with the rest of the Federation's to ensure economic stability in the region. Regional representatives will be given some authority in the Osterstag, but exactly what these powers will be are still being orchestrated. The Osterstag was hesitant to vote "yes" on the referendums following the recent midterm elections, however an unpredicted coalition among the Social Democrats, Communists, and Traditionalists were able to overcome the initial opposition from the Nationalists, Free Democrats, Future Alliance Partiers, and the Greens. Eventually, even the Austrian National People's Party agreed to implement the referendums and approve of there results. Indeed, the future for the Federation looks bright following the darkness of "Black Sunday" and the Slovenian War. |
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| Whal | Dec 17 2013, 11:09 AM Post #5 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Kriegsmarine Launches First Sister Carriers! Posted Image Rijecka, Croatia With the Croatian port of Rijecka properly outfitted to launch large naval vessels, the Kreigsmarine announced today that the twin sister carriers commissioned at the beginning of military operations inside the FPR were finally seaworthy. The newly christened EGS Donitz and its equivalent, EGS Koltenbrugger, are the first of the Navy's new line of Heinz Class super-carriers. Each vessel is to be designated as a capital ship to head the Federation's newly constructed First and Second Maritime Fleets, respectively. The Maritime Fleets are to represent the Federations primary naval strike task-forces and shall each be outfitted to fill the role of Federal maritime security within the Adriatic Sea and the Mediterranean. Accompanying the carriers, the Kriegsmarine has also announced the commissioning and subsequent launching of a host of additional vessels to accompany the super-carriers inside the First and Second Maritime Fleets. Destroyers, Heavy and Missile Cruisers, Submarines, and a vast variety of other vessels have also been launched from the Federal Naval Shipyard in Rijecka, and many more have yet to be constructed. As it stands, the Kriegsmarine currently boasts an impressive modern navy of approximately 68 seaworthy vessels (and counting), which includes everything from the new Heinz class super-carriers to the dependable Tiger class corvettes. This rise in the East German interest for a stronger navy has instilled a fierce pride among many East Germans who have often depended on the navies of their neighbors to ensure the safety of their trade goods. With the advent of the Maritime Fleets, the Federation's Maritime Flotillas have been disbanded and incorporated into the Fleets to ensure their overall strength. The Chancellor released a statement earlier in the day thanking the people of the Grand Duchy of Marslava and the Republic of Porcu for the use of their ports, but reassured that the Federation could now count on its own navy for protection. With the growing East German naval presence in the region, the question of what the Federation will do with her new navy remains on many people's minds. However, what is known is that the East German navy has asserted itself as an important player in the region now and the Federation's enemies will definitely have to rethink any aggressive action. |
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| Whal | Feb 1 2014, 09:10 PM Post #6 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Chemostadt "buys out" AMAG; Domestic opposition to Social Democrats increases. Posted Image Posted Image Vienna, Capital Region Two recent events, which appear to have begun almost in tandem with one another, have been garnering considerable attention from within the capital as of late. The first and most shocking of these has been the announcement of the surprising acquisition of Austria's leading industrial giant, Austria Metal, by longtime chemical producer, Chemostadt. This peculiar occurrence, which has taken many financial analysts/economists by surprise, was reported earlier today by a press conference held by the illustrious CEO of Chemostadt, Klaus Hunderschorn, and his equivalents at AMAG, respectfully. At the event, the transfer was made available for all to see as AMAG's executive board of trustees signed over all of the company's assets over to Mr. Hunderschorn (pictured above) in return for a currently unknown lump sum of financial compensation. A relatively brief Q&A was declared open to the press following the event, at which Die Presse asked the two parties the following question: "As you must be aware, this abrupt and sudden transfer of AMAG's corporate assets to Chemostadt has many within the Federation bewildered. How will this acquisition affect the current and future nature of the sale of chemicals and basic materials within Austria and abroad?" Mr. Hunderschorn, was quoted with saying the following in response: "The business sector, as well as the regional economy, should not and will not be negatively affected by this change. Both Chemostadt's and AMAG's duties will be fulfilled to the max of our abilities and one should even expect a greater outflow of our iconic goods. Indeed, the public and private sector should even be prepared for a rise in stock prices for both companies." It is currently up for debate whether or not Schlesinger's government assistance plan to AMAG will continue, however Mr. Hunderschorn is a known electoral supporter of the Chancellor and the SPO and it is likely this shall be a much needed boost for the Chancellor's re-election campaign. The fact that Schlesinger has lost so much support from the business sector this month should not be over-looked, however, and without Chemostadt-AMAG's support the SPO will undoubtedly face serious problems in the oncoming elections later this season. Meanwhile, while many in the government are skeptical that their business fortunes will rise, there are plenty inside the private sector who have eagerly jumped onto Mr. Hundershorn's optimism and purchased stock with both companies. In fact, despite fears of an economic fall based on this acquisition, the stock-market has shown that the national economy has remained stable through the aftermath of this transfer. It is unknown what Chemostadt-AMAG will do next, but the public should rest assured knowing that the market is still thriving as of now. ------ In related news, and occurring shortly after the previous event, a series of large and dedicated protests have gripped Vienna today. The demonstrations, which have been entirely peaceful so far, have been centered around the recent struggles in Hungary and have developed largely in response to the devastatingly effective Hungarian counterattack undertaken earlier in the week. While Osterwehr forces have regained the initiative all along the front, many citizens inside Vienna have taken to the streets in protest of the SPO's handling of the invasion. Public support for the war, which reached it highest earlier this month at 67% in favor, has steadily decreased in the past couple weeks to almost 54% following the Hungarian assault. Protesters have voiced their dissatisfaction with the Chancellor's handling of the war with large-scale demonstrations outside the Osterstag Building. Some of their demands have ranged from and end to the war, a change in military leadership, and even a change in government, but the Chancellor has yet to release a statement as of now. What is known is that recent military leadership presiding over the war effort has been changed slightly and more soldiers have been mobilized and sent to the Hungarian front. Likewise, the government has made no effort to slow down progress inside Hungary nor have they attempted to appease protesters. Thankfully, the right to freedom of assembly has remained open and demonstrators have been allowed to continue undeterred despite the raised police presence. With the Federation's death toll quickly approaching 7,000 KIA since the beginning of hostilities and election season vastly approaching, Chancellor Schlesinger is faced with a serious blow to his public support. It will take a dedicated effort from the SPO and Schlesinger to regain their former approval rating and seize the reigns through the next election. Edited by Whal, Feb 1 2014, 09:17 PM.
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| Whal | Mar 7 2014, 12:18 PM Post #7 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Austrian Royal Marines Land in Norway. Posted Image Harstad, Norway Two full divisions of the Austrian Royal Marines were landed off the coast of the Norwegian port city of Harstad this morning, where they then proceeded to occupy it without further delay. This seemingly brazen move by the new government, which was executed without any conflict, appears to be in response to the seizure of the Loki Platforms by Porcuian special forces late yesterday. That event, as has been confirmed by La Republicca, was a response to recent change in government still being orchestrated and finalized in the Austrian capital, Vienna. Porcuian government officials, namely President Gularis, have been largely criticized by the Austrian government and Habsburg Monarchy for their "unprompted" and "illegal" occupation of Austrian sovereign territory. A statement released early yesterday night by Archduke Karl von Habsburg officially condemned the Porcuian government for their "shortsightedness" in orchestrating an assault on a jointly held territory, and blamed them for straining the delicate relations between both countries. "President Gularis and her cabinet have acted completely irresponsibly to the change in governance within Vienna. To even suggest that a military operation is warranted as an official response clearly emphasizes the Porcuian shortsightedness on the matter entirely. While we pray for a peaceful solution, the Austrian government must respond to defend its sovereign territory." He was quoted last night. While the seizure of the Loki Platforms was not accompanied by an Austrian-Porcuian skirmish, tensions remain high as over 200 Austrian servicemen are surrounded and held up inside their bases. Orders have been give to defend their positions should a Porcuian assault be issues, however the situation inside Loki remains stable, albeit greatly confounded due to high tensions between Vienna and Araminae. Tensions were strained further when the Porcuian port of Narvik expelled the Kriegsmarine's First Fleet from their anchorage, but not before the fully equipped Austrian naval contingent was ordered north off the coast of Harstad. The Archduke and his advisers ordered the seizure of the city prematurely, as it was in the process of becoming a Free Imperial City, yet the dire circumstances following the Porcuian occupation of Loki exemplified the process and Reichswehr forces were ordered to land and occupy the city. The operation was extremely well orchestrated with no casualties and currently Austrian forces have been ordered to dig in and prepare the city as a forward base. With tensions rising between both governments, and an unclear outcome surrounding the Loki issue, it is unclear what role the Royal Marines will play in the upcoming days, however many are preparing for an escalation to the conflict. Already, Vienna has issued economic restrictions against the Republic and has threatened further sanctions should Porcuian forces remain in possession of Austrian oil platforms. As oil reserves inside the Empire begin to feel the pressure from the loss in surplus, the Austrian government has vowed to turn to alternative means to procure the resources it needs to continue military operations within Hungary and Norway. People all throughout Central Europe eagerly await the next step taken by Porcuian forces inside Loki. In the meantime, Austrian officials are in contact with Ariminae, however a meeting to discuss the matter has yet to take shape. With military forces mobilized on both sides, the future situation in Norway appears to be anything but negligible. |
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| Whal | Mar 14 2014, 09:03 PM Post #8 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Austrian-Porcuian Disagreement Over Loki Worsens. Posted Image Araminae, Porcu The situation surrounding the Porcuian seizure of the Austrian side of the Loki platforms appears to have worsened say local reports coming from the Porcuian capital. The reports seem to focus on the sudden and unexpected recall of the Austrian ambassador to Porcu, Kurt Wagner, from the Austrian Embassy early yesterday. Officially, Mr. Wagner's departure was defined as a technical decision made by the Austrian government to discuss future policy, however several Porcuian local news outlets have characterized the event as a step to a total break of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Mr. Wagner, himself, denounced the claims personally stating: "My recalling back to Austria was the result of a calculated and purely routine decision to discuss upcoming policy decisions surrounding the disagreement over Loki. By no means is this a result of a break of diplomatic relations as the majority of the embassy staff remain and are operating to the best of their abilities." Despite Mr. Wagner's prior statements denouncing his departure as the result of a direct message to the Gularis Administration, he was quoted later to have said the following: "Do I think the Porcuian government has acted out of turn? Yes, and I have fervently voiced my opposition to Mrs. Gularis' decision to occupy the platforms. However, my warnings and concerns appear to have fallen on deaf ears within Araminae as negotiations still have garnered little results." Currently, negotiations between the Empire and the Republic are still in their infancy and have amounted to virtually nothing in the way of a solution appealing to both parties. While Mr. Wagner's departure does not signify a formal break in communication, it should not be discounted as a potential power play by the Austrian government to sway Porcuian officials away from continuing their course of action. As economic restrictions have been placed by the Empire against the Republic and a sizable portion of Austrian Royal Marines remain within striking distance of Porcuian positions, the possibility of open warfare may not be as distant as some claim. Moreover, the Austrian government's rhetoric has not changed and the Archduke has continued his condemnation of President Gularis' actions. For now, the situation inside Norway remains at high tension as troops and politicians from both sides appear to be remaining idle. Edited by Whal, Mar 14 2014, 09:04 PM.
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| Whal | Mar 25 2014, 07:17 PM Post #9 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Austria Consolidates Hungarian Provinces Posted Image Pecs, Hungary By official word of Vienna's latest Imperial Degree, all the Hungarian territory currently occupied by Austrian forces shall henceforth be consolidated as the Landgraviate of West Hungary. The decree, which was issued early this morning, calls for all Austrian forces stationed inside Hungary to secure and protect all former nationalist government buildings for the arrival of the incumbent politicians from Austria. As the Empire's first Landgraviate, West Hungary shall be placed under a mostly military governorship until a transition to a more civilian alternative can be properly exercised. Following the disarming and demobilization of the Hungarian military following the Admiral's surrender, the defense of Hungarian citizens and their Austrian counterparts now rests solely on the Austrian military. The degree has also outlined that martial law be declared across the newly established Langraviate, and all Hungarian citizens are subject to a small measure of new regulations. A strict 8 PM curfew, stop-and-search policy, and mandatory I.D cards have all been measures undertaken by the monarchy and Austrian forces upon the Hungarian people in order to establish order and assist in the apprehension of any suspected Translava operatives. As the reader may well know, the elusive terror organization has been operating inside the country for several months and Austrian forces are determined to use all available measures to capture them. While limited arrests have been made within the Landgraviate itself, the rest of the country remains more open for travel. The Marslavan and Coalition zones have been particularly useful for escaping operatives and Austrian forces are working desperately to organize assistance with Marslavan authorities; however, the recent abolishing of the C.E.D.O pact has severely hampered cooperation between Vienna and Prague. Civilian response to the decree has been mixed, with a wide array of small acts of defiance and assistance towards the regulations by Hungarians. In Pecs itself, small peaceful protests against the arrival of more Austrian troops were planned in the city center, but they were rather quickly dispersed with limited to no acts of violence by the city's garrison. By contrast, counter demonstrations by Habsburg supporters were also organized as a result, but were also peacefully dismissed to prevent large crowds from forming. While many public demonstrations have been dissuaded by Austrian forces, reprisals against nationalist war profiteers and convicted criminals have been left largely untouched. Authorities have been ordered to intervene only in the case of harm towards Austrian personnel, and multitudes of Hungarian nationalists have been arrested, beaten, and in some cases, murdered by their fellow citizens as well as the newly established Hungarian Royal Police. Claims that violence has been perpetrated by Austrian troops or Gendarmerie have been vehemently denied by Vienna. Edited by Whal, Mar 25 2014, 11:26 PM.
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| Whal | May 29 2014, 12:57 PM Post #10 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Antiquated Dueling & Trials via Combat Officially Legalized by Austrian State Posted Image By Tomas von Hammersmark With the change in government fully concluded within Vienna, the new ruling Habsburg monarchy has begun to change life inside Austria in a multitude of ways. Accompanying the full transition to monarchy, the new ruling elite have enacted various new policies which would shock much of the outside world. In addition to the expected changes in social statuses, the newest strings of imperial decrees have made legal a host of bizarre and fascinating practices - the most interesting and terrifying of these being the legalization of dueling and "trial by combat". I had the pleasure of witnessing one of these intricate practices myself, as I travelled through the capital earlier in the week. It wasn't until after the affairs' conclusion that I learned this particular duel was the very first one conducted since the decree's enactment. The two belligerents, Count Stanus Holstein and Sir Helmut von Polten, entered willingly into the affair (as is customary and required by law) based on a charge of adultery upon the Count's wife, Lady Margarette Holstein, with Sir von Polten. Declared by the Count himself, the duel was commissioned and an offer was extended too the accused and rather ardently accepted as Sir von Polten's personal honor was called into question. The manner in which it was conducted was quite traditional - with both men agreeing to the location and adhering to the use of pistols in this particular case. The belligerents met along the Metzergerplatz, bowed, turned away from the other, began walking a specific twenty paces, and fired. The Count's shot met its mark - striking Sir von Polten above the heart and killing him instantly. With the matter concluded, Count Holstein reclaimed his personal honor and was acquitted of any charges as is customary of a duel's winner. Sir von Polten was awarded a state funeral as is also customary of any nobleman who losses a duel. The act of dueling is permitted to any Austrian citizen of noble birth as a legitimate manner of defending one's reputation. While the common man is excluded from declaring a duel, they may participate in one when accused. Dueling is not sanctioned as an official substitute for conducting justice, however another new policy crafted for that purpose is the right to "trial by combat". While this new practice has yet to see its first subjects, it, like dueling, is a privilege awarded only to members of the nobility, but its also a right extended to any foreign national held within the Austrian state. The manner is conducted when the accused declares their willingness to abide by such a practice. In effect, the accused abandons the legality of the Austrian High Civil, Military, or Religious Courts and instead places their fate in judgment through combat. The belief of the legitimacy of such practices stems from the notion that the Almighty judges the case and places the true in his graces - awarding victory to whichever party He deems righteous. As is customary with the practice, the accused may choose to fight for himself or they may place their case in a "stand-in" who vouches for the accused and fights in their stead. The Crown, who is the only authority who may officially permit the trial, is then awarded the right to choose a champion to fight in the name of the Archduke's justice. While it is customary for both participants to fight to the death, it is not against the law for the Archduke to grant mercy to either fighter (upon being defeated) when said fighter is not the accused individual. Should the accused's champion surrender and demand mercy, and the request is granted, the accused must also permit the surrender, thus acknowledging the trial was indeed fair. In any case where the accused or his champion falls, the result is death by combat or execution, respectfully. Should the guilty party see victory then they are acquitted of all charges as was judged by God. Both practices, now fully legitimate and sanctioned by the state, have garnered criticisms by human rights groups as outdated and barbaric, however many members of the nobility have defended them as "their right." As all parties must agree to either case, both duels and their trial by combat equivalents do not appear to be unjust or unfair and it looks as though they shall remain to be a part of Austrian society for sometime. All across Austria and her holdings, noblemen from every house and station now have the ability to exercise their prowess at arms - something many have honed, but had been unable to truly exercise. In any case, the world watches events inside the new Empire with growing caution and curiosity alike. Edited by Whal, May 29 2014, 01:10 PM.
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| Whal | Jul 3 2014, 12:17 PM Post #11 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Archduke Tackles High Unemployment, Becomes Immensely Popular By Mark Hasselbach Ask any average Austrian what the nation's largest problem is and they'll tell you unflinchingly - rising unemployment. But has this problem actually been getting worse?Roughly before the time of this article's writing the Austrian Ministry of the Interior, particularly the Imperial Bureau of the Census, put the figures at approximately 28% unemployment and rising! That's over 756 million citizens without jobs and actively looking for employment opportunities that few will ever find. At least, that was the way people used to think before the change in government. Recent actions undertaken by the Imperial authorities with the business sector have given many hope that employment is indeed a not too distant possibility. Even before the rise of Vienna's new government the unemployment levels within Austria were staggering. Now, with the addition of over a billion Slovenes, Croats, and Hungarians into the empire the problem, as it appears to many, has gotten worse. What I challenge the reader to analyze is whether or not this is actually the case? Currently, the figures for unemployment have actually begun to plateau and even decrease with the data showing a considerable dip - at 744 million unemployed as of today and decreasing. What, you may ask , has been the cause of this unexpected change? The answer has been a wide array of easily dismissible active labor market policy changes passed by the Archduke, Karl II, and other new methods for creating jobs. Since seizing power, Karl II has targeted rising unemployment as his first hurdle to overcome. Among his first moves, the aging sovereign instituted a new imperial agency designed to help the unemployed improve their job search by offering a variety of public employment services. The most popular of these has been the creation of hundreds of additional job classes and apprenticeships to assist those in need of honing their qualifications and "hire-ability." Adding to this, has been the construction of several job centers and labor exchanges to improve the job searching process by easing the connection between the unemployed and the employer. These small labor market policy changes, as effective as they have been, have often been overlooked in favor of the Archduke's more tantalizing offers in job creation. The key to the Archduke's new economic policy has been large scale borrowing for public expenditures, i.e public works projects such as the building of new canals, high way systems, telecommunication systems, public transportation terminals, as well as the construction of multiple new factories and manufacturing centers. Many private corporations and wealthy patrons among the nobility have also lent large swaths of money to the imperial government in the hopes that new job creation will lead to a boom in productivity and relative profits. Large industry leaders such as AMAG-Chemostadt and FGK have benefitted immensely alongside the Austrian public as the influx of new jobs have also led to an increase in profits. The creation of new jobs, as well as shrinking unemployment, have led to a substantial boost in the Archduke's popularity. Many among the economic circles who originally feared for a repressive labor market have now shifted their weight behind the monarch - backing his claim and legitimacy to rule. Additionally, large swaths of the common people have also begun backing the royal family as a result of this change. In fact, the Archduke's approval rating has climbed from 51% after the change in government to a staggering 77% since unemployment figures have increased. How can one even still claim that unemployment isn't changing? Simple, they haven't been reviewing the data. The Archduke has vowed to continue fighting unemployment until it reaches appropriate levels once again. At the current rate of decrease, we may see these levels approaching extremely soon. As for anyone who believes the myths that the Austrian unemployment rate has stalemated? I suggest you refer them to the facts. |
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| Whal | Jul 28 2014, 10:55 AM Post #12 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Vienna Unveils Grandiose "3 Year Plan" Posted Image Vienna, Austria Austria's new government has faced many roadblocks since coming to power early this year; however recent buzz coming from Vienna's Ministries of Interior, Transportation, Communication, and Agriculture appear to shed some light on the monarchy's newest scheme to combat the critics. Reichskanzler Duke Jurgen von Pless released a statement earlier today confirming an ambitious and rather grandiose public works program to begin immediately. The project, which has already received a high level of intrigue, is scheduled to last for approximately three years and will entail great strides into improving the empire's infrastructure, agricultural production, manufacturing, tourism, as well as continuing the fight against high unemployment. "Austria has languished amongst unproductivity, inadequacy, and stagnation for far too long now, and it has made us weak, decrepit, and susceptible to the feelings of complacency and acceptance of reaching only the bear minimum," von Pless was quoted in his introductory speech for the plan. "For almost a century, a whole succession of Austrian parliamentarian leaders have focused their efforts only at keeping Austria's success aimed at social policy. Rather than promoting greatness, this has adversely locked our great country in economic stagnation and neglected the rising issues of unemployment, a closing labor gap, and a worsening infrastructure. Not only will this leave Austria vulnerable to outside encroachment, it has forced us to accept the false notion that our condition is anything but reversible." Duke von Pless continued to state in his address that Austria's problems lie not only within herself, but also with rival competing powers abroad - he had especially damnable things to say about the Republic of Porcu and the entirety of Europe's Slavs. Minus the fear of outside interference, Von Pless and the monarchy stress and have stressed the importance of repairing the nation's infrastructure and production capabilities. In recent years, the country has fallen behind its neighbors (notably largest rival Marslava) in agricultural production and wholesale manufacturing. According to the government, the new "3 year plan" will focus heavily on repairing and maintaining Austria's current reichsbahn system as well as her internal waterways and tunnels. What has recently begun as part of the Archduke's war on unemployment is now becoming increasingly clear as a coordinated plan to build and repair the country's stagnant infrastructure. Already today, construction has begun on a total of 5 new highways connecting current existing systems inside Austria with proposed systems inside Slovenia, Hungary, and Croatia. Additionally, in a bid to increase general manufacturing productivity, over 150 new government contracts have been issued and signed by the country's largest business leaders. Along side these new contracts, several factories have been outlined for construction and little is known for whom they were issued and for what purpose they now serve. As has been previously noted as well, thousands upon thousands of new jobs have been created to service these widening demands; making the Archduke's government highly popular and warranting the creation of an entirely new imperial agency - the Reichsarbeitsgruppe, or Imperial Worker's Bund. The Bund's role has been outlined as job creation across multiple economic sectors, including agriculture, with coordination provided by the Imperial Ministry of the Interior. Acceptance into the organization grants workers with a degree of job security, a slight pay increase incentive, and a sense of belonging. Already today, the Reichswehr Pioneer Corps has coordinated with the Bund to begin construction on a new system of defenses stretching from Haugburg in Lower Austria to Goz in Hungary. While the entire project has been scheduled to last approximately 3 years and cost over 600 billion dollars, the Archduke's government is not worried about an impeding deadline or financial restrictions. With a promise to provide over 20 million Austrians (and counting) with continuous work in a period of over 3 years and the cooperation of the Austrian business sector, the government's new public works project is shaping up to be quite the solution to the problems outlined by the Reichskanzler. Edited by Whal, Jul 31 2014, 02:58 PM.
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| Whal | Aug 10 2014, 08:19 AM Post #13 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Reichswehr Conducts New Military Trials Posted Image By Hans Banda From the bustling city streets of Vienna to the quiet roaming fields of the Tyrolian countryside, the gears of the Austrian Empire are turning. The grand reveal of the "3 Year Plan" has done plenty to demonstrate to the world Austria's commitment to surpass her neighbor's most prestigious achievements in infrastructure and construction. More still, the slashing of the Austrian unemployment margin by a quarter of its number last month has shown average Austrians their new government's commitment to bettering the current standard of living. These humongous undertakings have led many inside the empire to question where the government will turn next; the answer has left many anxious - expanding the military's arsenal. Unquestionably, the Austrian Reichswehr is the equal to any modern military in existence today. With a proud tradition rooted inside the military, many Austrians take pride in their country's military prowess and are ardently "pro-defense spending". With successful endeavors inside Slovenia, Hungary, and now ICON's trial-run in Yoloys, the Reichswehr has proven to the world it's efficiency and determination to succeed in whatever mission it has adopted. Despite these accomplishments however, the Archduke and his cabinet have often of late complained about the Reichswehr's rigid structure and impending technological cohesion relative to its European neighbors. With a recent buff in the Grand Duchy of Marslava's military capabilities, the empire has voiced its wishes to further increase its modern arsenal. In the mostly vacant and highly mountainous regions of Lower Austria as well as in the Adriatic Sea, the Reichswehr has been eagerly conducting trials for a vast host of new military hardware including assault rifles, submarines, and next generation fighter jets. While many details of the exact hardware being tested remains a mystery at this time, various images and concept artwork outlining some of these new systems have been leaked to the press by several unknown sources. Some of these images depict highly impressive generation five fighter jets such as the new Typhoon 2 prototype (depicted above). Featuring a new highly complicated and expensive targeting system and "smart hardware", the prototype is estimated to increase the Luftwaffe's combat range by several hundred miles and its battle effectiveness by almost 10%! Annalists estimate the new fighter jet could climb to the top position in its class, outclassing all its European equivalents in speed, protection, and weapon systems; however the price per individual unit is rumored to be so astronomically high that it may be too impractical to mass produce. What is certain is that the Luftwaffe's old Panavia Tornado fighter-bombers would become obsolete in response to the prototype's multi-role capabilities. The air isn't the only place new Austrian weapon systems may begin appearing; several new land vehicles and submersibles have also been introduced via concept artwork and early models. The Kreigsmarine already dazzled skeptics with the invent of their Heinz Class super carrier design a few years back, but it is in the area of submarine's that have the critics silenced now. The new Wolfe Class "U-boat" represents the newest in attack submersibles and has already seen hundreds of successful trial runs. With a new hydro-electric power system and uranium armor protection, the U-boats may be the Kriegsmarine's most feared instrument too date and several units have already entered the late stages of production. Last, it is on land that the new weapon systems take a turn for the truly futuristic with the Waffentraeger A1 tank destroyer by Magna-Steyr. Featuring an array of impressive new hardware features and sporting a low profile, the A1 aims to fill the role of tank destroyer that the Reichsheer so desperately coveted. Like its fellow prototype, the Typhoon 2, the A1 also threatens to cost an exuberant amount of money to construct and maintain; therefore, if such a model is adopted it is expected to be produced in only small numbers. While military trials have not yet to date been completed and no decisions outside the Wolfe U-boats have been formally adopted, military officials are confident that the Reichswehr will benefit immensely from these proposed upgrades. As the political climate inside Europe is tense and as Austria could be thrown into a conflict at any moment, the empire could do well to prepare for the worst. Edited by Whal, Aug 10 2014, 09:13 AM.
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| Whal | Sep 1 2014, 04:32 PM Post #14 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Vienna Warns of Impending Showdown with Translava Posted Image Vienna, Austria Austrian Archduke Karl von Habsburg-Lothringen II said that Austria will proceed more harshly with military measures in the next impending days if Translava refuses to adhere to a ceasefire over the disputed Plesivica region of Northern Croatia. "It is becoming increasingly clear that, since the beginning of Slavic aggression against Vienna during the events of Black Sunday, Translava's principle aim has been the agitation and senseless murder of Austrians within the confines of our borders and abroad," Karl II told members of the Imperial Council today in a joint session of the Council of Lords and Council of Gentry held in Vienna. The remarks further underscore the Austrian sovereign and leader's growing frustration with the terror organization's blatant escalation of the conflict and his government's more direct role in seeking an end to conflict as Translava insurgents continue their attacks upon Austrian citizens in the Plesivica region. The Archduke was one of the principle proponents of escalating the hunt for Translava operatives throughout the then active East German Federation's intervention first inside Slovenia and then later in the Hungarian War. Citing multiple examples of terrorist activity from the last couple weeks, the Archduke laid out a claim that the Slavic group's operations have been emboldened as of late and he warns that they shall escalate further without an official military response. Addressing the risks and criticisms involved for an additional Austrian military venture apart from the still developing ICON peacekeeping mission in Yoloys, Karl II stated that Austria's internal and external security are a paramount concern for his government and that the Reichswehr is more than capable of conducting military operations inside Northern Croatia alongside Yoloys. "Being able to properly defend our borders and citizens against an external threat from a determined ideological enemy, and show the world that we will not be intimidated by terrorism, is an unequivocally more important position than sitting idle in hopes the problem will rectify itself," he said earlier at a press conference following the session with the Imperial Council. At current time, developments in the situation appear to be reliant upon Translava's response to the Archduke's insistence on a ceasefire. |
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| Whal | Sep 7 2014, 02:53 PM Post #15 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Tensions Inside Croatia Reach Climax with Ceasefire Rejection Posted Image Karlovac, Croatia Austrian Reichswehr forces operating on duty inside the volatile Plesivica region came under light artillery fire today, in the first serious attack by Translava in defiance of the Austrian Archduke Karl von Habsburg-Lothringen II's call for a ceasefire. Translava leaders had earlier said the ceasefire, part of the Austrian Empire's last ditch attempt at stemming conflict, was a carefully disguised attempt at subterfuge aimed at diverting the international community's attention away from Austrian interference in the area. According to a Die Presse field reporter, a barrage of mortar fire was heard early this morning to the east of Karlovac, a key flashpoint in the past days of contention, and then an Austrian military installation went ablaze within the limits of the city. The reporter also witnessed several military trucks carrying aggravated Austrian soldiers hurrying northwards in the direction of the mortar fire. Swiftly approaching behind, a convoy of tanks and armored fighting vehicles headed in the same direction. "There has been an artillery attack. We've received a small number of confirmed impacts, but we have no information about any casualty figures at this time," An Austrian officer told Die Presse sometime following the attack. The area has been a hotbed of activity since hostilities began to escalate between Austrian forces and foreign fighters early last week. Since the rejection of the ceasefire earlier today, confirmed Austrian troop increases have been witnessed and the Austrian government's rhetoric surrounding Croatia has heated up. "Translava has proven to the world that they are an adversary to lasting peace in the Balkans. With our last sincere attempt at a ceasefire having been rejected, the Austrian Empire will have no other choice but to respond militarily to defend its citizens from harm," Austrian Reichskanzler Jurgen von Pless stated at a press conference earlier this morning. With communication between Austrian officials and the Translava leadership largely non existent, and an increasing influx of Austrian military personnel, a conflict of a particular magnitude seems immanent. Edited by Whal, Sep 7 2014, 03:47 PM.
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| Whal | Aug 3 2015, 10:56 AM Post #16 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Secret Austrian Mission in Berlin Revealed Posted Image Berlin, Brandenburg News of a top secret operation conducted in Berlin by an unnamed contingent of Austrian special forces was finally revealed today from the Imperial Ministry of the Interior. The "raid", as it was infamously dubbed in early reports from sources in the now defunct Margraviate of Brandenburg, has now been properly identified as a rescue operation officially sanctioned by the Archduke, Karl von Habsburg. Initial reports from inside Berlin that disguised and unmarked Austrian servicemen entered the city after dusk and fanned out to secure key locations across the city have been corroborated by the statement released by the Ministry of the Interior. The men were a covert and highly trained outfit of the Reichswehr's Special Forces, but their exact affiliation remains unconfirmed. Some of the buildings secured by the Austrians were the City Hall, Royal Palace, Brandenburg Gate, and the Ministries of Interior, Defense, and Foreign Affairs. While greater information regarding the mission's ulterior objectives and initial planning continue to remain classified as of today, the Ministry did reveal the key objective of the operation - the immediate retrieval of the Margrave Adrian von Lebus, leader of Austria's principle ally and a member of the Austrian Royal family, as well as a large number of the Margrave's closest staff and advisers. The official statement from the Ministry concluded that the operation was a rousing success; with the safe and secure apprehension of the Margrave and the majority of his council, yet dissenting (and now unconfirmed) reports of violence and a number of Brandenburgers killed-in-action on scene have caused a considerable amount of further inquiry. Regardless, with few confirmed reports stemming from the chaotic situation inside the country at present and the reluctance of the Crown to reveal the Margrave or his advisers, it remains difficult to discern the effectiveness of either claim. This operation marks the first known Austrian incursion into the collapsed state since the country's government forces officially lost power following increased civil unrest last month. Since conflict began, the Margraviate has been the scene of a prolonged and deadly period of lawlessness and crime, and has prompted the reaction from its neighbor and former ally. Questions as to what exactly the Archduke plans to do about the collapse of his greatest partner still linger on the minds of many Austrians as the country's tensions with the neighboring Grand Duchy of Marslava continue to grow towards a boiling point. With the political stalemate in Hungary and the wars in Croatia, Bosnia, and Serbia largely finished, the impact of Brandenburg's loss to the Empire's future remains to be seen. Edited by Whal, Aug 3 2015, 10:56 AM.
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| Whal | Oct 5 2015, 12:01 PM Post #17 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Ministry of Interior Issues Compulsory I.D Cards Vienna, Austria Today marks the beginning of the Ministry of the Interior's new legislation demanding for all Austrian citizens and persons under Austrian jurisdiction to register with the RSD Main Office of Administration in their local municipalities, and to receive personal identification cards. These new I.D cards are to be used as a reference for security personnel as well as for civil administrative purposes, and will denote important features of the individuals such as citizenship, race, religion, party affiliation, and ethnicity. All individuals without proper Austrian citizenship will be directed to apply for either a residence visa or work visa with the RSD Main Settlement Office or RSD Main Economics Office respectfully. The push for such measures has arisen shortly after the sanction of the Imperial Decree Granting the Expansion of the RSD, which has seen a grand restructuring and expansion of the Imperial Security Service to include a variety of new main branches and civil offices. The newly formed department is but a single new addition to the General RSD branch that is responsible for the administration of the Main Office's fellow departments. The RSD Main Office of Administration, abbreviated as RSD-HA, is joined by other departments such as the RSD Main Operations Office, RSD Imperial Security Office, and the RSD Main Economics Office to name only a few. The government has called for all those living within Austria and its holdings to comply with the regulations and register with the RSD-HA no later than a month after the declaration of this decree under penalty of arrest. |
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| Whal | Nov 11 2015, 02:05 PM Post #18 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Party Membership Sores in Wake of New Legislation Posted Image Vienna, Austria The Osterstag saw an unexpected yet much delighted return to the spotlight yesterday as one hundred representatives of the newly established Iron Eagle Party met to deliberate on the first piece of legislation not formally drafted from the imperial household since the establishment of the monarchy. The party, which was officially legalized in a surprising move by the Archduke Karl II, has seen a rapid and fervent support arising from a highly significant percentage of the Austrian population since its inception not two weeks prior to yesterday's meeting. While perhaps quite surprising in its nature, more exuberantly surprising is the actual power gifted to the organization seemingly at the expense of the Archduke's iron-tight grip on the Austrian political stage. The actual deliberation surrounding the legalization of the party is still highly shrouded in secrecy, however what is known is the origin of the party's roots, its support base, and the possible rationale for the decision to allow the entity. The Iron Eagle Party is most unabashedly a far right organization running under a nationalistic, Austro-Hungarist platform. As such, the party has amassed an almost cult-like attraction from Austrian and Hungarian nationalists, conservatives, and certain sectors of the Reichswehr and among the nobility. Most notably in support of the party has been the Reichskanzler himself, Jurgen von Pless, among others and even the Archduke himself. Holding the party title of "National Leader" and nominal "party member #1," the Archduke has voiced his utmost approval for the party's new and expanding role in deliberating on various issues of bureaucracy and daily life within the empire. As a result, the party has seen a tremendous rise in popularity among the Austrian people in a fashion which seeks to emulate their sovereign's approval. In recent days, party membership has steadily risen from 2500 to 300,000 and counting and is expected to surpass a million members by the end of the year. The legislation the party met to deliberate over was a reorganization of the landed system initially orchestrated by the nobility after the coup back to a more modern system, yet the majority of tangible changes have been focused on formal names and terms of governance. From today onward, all former imperial estates have been renamed to more nationalized and "volkish" styles such as regions and protectorates. Furthermore, the former Langraviate of West Hungary has been renamed officially to the Hungarian Protectorate with similar changes being made to the former Duchies of Carniola and Istria in Croatia. Furthermore, the last days of the Council of Gentry have been sealed with the opening of the Osterstag to allow membership to the common people of the empire with plans to integrate the legislative building formally with the remaining Council of Lords. While this has been met with some resistance by the nobility, the Archduke has promised that all positions of lordships will not be threatened. Nonetheless, the move has certainly been a win with the common Austrian citizen and the party will continue to grow despite the party's continued oversight from the Archduke. |
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| Whal | Nov 14 2017, 09:25 AM Post #19 |
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"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch"
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Royal Wedding Announced! Posted Image Vienna, Austria Following the recent story breaking earlier in Moscow's Russian Nightly News, the Ministry of Interior has confirmed the authenticity of the rumors regarding the Crown Prince Ferdinand and the Russian Grand Duchess Sophia Alexeovicha. In tandem with an announcement made earlier today by the Imperial Household, the personal relationship between the two royals has now reached a point where both royal families are comfortable with the courtship being made public. Furthermore, in a statement made earlier today, a spokesperson for the Imperial Household expanded upon the story further by commenting on the future preparations for an accompanying royal wedding.
The wedding is believed to draw crowds and notables from all across Europe. While the complete guest list is still weeks away from public release, the likely attendees will be the royal families and heads of state from across the continent and perhaps even abroad. The Ministry of Commerce and the Imperial Household have not yet released the expenditure of the event, but it is likely that the affair shall be more grand and costly than the prior wedding of the Archduchess Eleanore von Lebus. No official statement has been made from the Archduke himself yet, however it is likely that His Majesty is in agreement with the Crown Prince's choice. While many of Austria's citizens have reacted to the breaking story with excitement and praise, there have been some minor expressions of displeasure and anonymous acts of oppositions. Various instances of graffiti with vile words in reference to the Grand Duchess have been observed in Vienna and other cities across the Empire, yet these acts are infrequent and are being investigated by the Ministry of Interior. The Reichspolizei is offering a sizable reward for any information on individuals responsible for orchestrating or implementing the graffiti. As for the effects of the news on geopolitics, many in the Reichstag have voiced doubts regarding the Crown Prince's marrying of a Russian noble; instead voicing praise to noblewomen from Germany proper and the British Isles as more suitable consorts for the Habsburg bloodline. Regardless, the Crown Prince has been adamant regarding his feelings for the Romanov Duchess since the story broke and has dissuaded any rumors that he is also courting other noblewomen. The news of the royal wedding has come amidst a rather tumultuous political climate in Central Europe with the Empire coming ever closer to conflict with the Grand Duchy of Marslava. With Russia having close ties to both nations, many have begun to question the political repercussions the union will have on Moscow's actions should war break out. What is apparent is the Austrian and Russian Empires will continue to grow politically closer and each respective royal families will also grow close. |
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| Rhadamanthus | Nov 27 2017, 08:59 PM Post #20 |
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Legitimist
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A formal note of congratulations was sent from the Baltic State to the Austrian Empire on the occasion of the royal wedding. A delegation from the War Council, led by the minister-president Alexander von Wrangel, would attend the wedding in Vienna. One notable name, however, would not be part of the delegation: the war minister, Karl von Stamm, who had muttered something about a family illness preventing him from traveling. However, this would not be reason for scandal, as Stamm's place in the delegation would be assumed by Joachim von Wahl. In reality, Baron von Stamm had hoped to position his own daughter as the bride of the Austrian prince, and ambition had been replaced in his breast by cold contempt once he realized he had been outmaneuvered. He sought solace in the cold plateau of Tibet, many miles away from the affairs of the crowned heads of Europe, seeking to annihilate his mind with meditation and pain, in hopes of ascending to a higher state of consciousness. Edited by Rhadamanthus, Nov 27 2017, 08:59 PM.
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