Welcome to the great city of Gorina. Great? you say...yes, great.

We may be a small city at the moment, but we will be the stepping stone that carries the nation of Fanatica to the future. Again, welcome, I am Cyc. As mayor of Gorina, I invite you to stay awhile, or possibly even move here from Noshuret. We have all the comforts of the Capital plus a flowing river, with which to bring us commerce (and take away other things :) ). The hills and mountains are sure to be filled with minerals that will make us a very productive city. At first our plans are to be a wiegh station for Settler groups as they pass through or originate in Gorina. Our citizens will fill the surrounding bountiful valley and hills, making this area a thriving community. Again, welcome.

Citizens of Gorina
Cyc - Mayor
Rik Meleet - Domestic Leader
CivGeneral - Former President
donsig - Former Chief Justice, Former President
disorganizer - the enlightened
Isaac_Newton - Head of Research and Development
Panzer
Sir John
Donovan Zoi - Former President
FortyJ - Former President



City Motto: ROME SWEET ROME
Tip of the hat goes out to Rik Meleet.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gorina1950bca.jpg

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gor1950bca.jpg

Shown above are some stats from Gorina, and below is a birds-eye view of our young city.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/BEGorina2350.jpg

As first order of business, I'd like to address the discussion in the citizen's sub-forum about a Worker being produced in our city next. I have to agree with my esteemed colleague Donovan Zoi. A Settler group should be our first concern. If we switch to a Settler now, it can be complete in 10 turns by placing the next laborer on the roaded hill. Then we can start on a Warrior/ Worker/Warrior/Settler plan. I believe we need to get the next city up and running as soon as possible.

After looking at the save for Tuesday chat, I thought we had 26 turns for a granary, but now that I look at the pic update, the shield box says 23, although the map pic says 16 :crazyeye: :confused: .

EDIT: First pic replaced (and a second one added).

Anyway, I still agree with DZ about popping out another Settler before we start building anything else. 'Course I'm only the Mayor. If we switch the worker off the grasslands to the roaded hill, we can have our fourth Settler in 6 turns, then we can build whatever without having to worry about growth problems or being behind in the city race. I think waiting all these turns before we can even begin a new Settler is the wrong way to go about it.

Congratulations, Mayor Cyc, and another fine job on this thread! It is comforting to know that Gorina will be in such good hands.

Thank you for noting my comments from the Citizen's Forum. I do believe that early, peaceful expansion can help us greatly and that means getting out settlers as soon as possible. Founding cities will also help to clear up "fog of war" issues by removing more shaded areas of the map.

From the perfect timing file, I also noticed that switching from that grassland to the 1-1-1 hill will give us growth in 6 turns. This matches nicely your projection of 6 turns to build the settler by making this switch.

Sounds like a grand slam to me. :D Would you care to take this info the Governor?

No, thank you DZ, for backing up my production claim. The growth in six matched the production in six, giving our earliest deliver date. I have already informed the Governor of the schedule and hope that he accepts our advice.

Quoting DZ:
It is comforting to know that Gorina will be in such good hands.
____________________________________

:lol: :lol:

I swear I don't know what happened to that first pic, cosmic interference during the cyber transfer, who knows. But i've replaced it with a fresh copy, plus a pic showing the change to a Settler with the laborer moved. I'm sure the Governor is aware of this situation already, at least I hope so.

I would like to build my house in Gorina. Cyc would you do me the honor of allowing me to live in Gorina? I will make it my home town, heck my birthtown even... I will never RIOT or Rebel, unless some other civ, heaven forbid, will take control of Gorina, then I'll be the fiercest Resistor of Gorina until our Glorious Legions will reclaim what is rightfully ours!
I will work the plains and hills, the grasslands and forests, Pick up arms, build libraries, temples and Wonders, assist in research and pay my taxes dutifully, for the greater glory of Fanatica in general and Gorina in special.

P.S. Are the landprices affordable ? Else I won't come. ;)

Yes, please Rik Meleet, come to Gorina. We will be proud to have you as a resident. It's good that you acted quickly as the Despot's land values are increasing as we speak. Pick a spot, any spot. You sound like an excellent citizen. If you'd like, I can make you administrator of Worker Relations. Maybe you could keep me informed of the happiness of our Workers, or which section of our city needs more work done to it. You never know, it could look good on your resume'.

In any case, welcome.

After a brief discussion, Rik Meleet has accepted the position of the Minister of Worker Relations for the great city of Gorina. Rik Meleet will be an advisor to the Mayor, helping us keep focus on the needs of our citizens. This could be considered an assistant Mayor position. Please join me in welcoming Rik Meleet.

I thank you for the honor and humbly accept.

Congratulations, Rik Meleet! You should know that the good mayor takes Worker Relations very seriously. Those were the days, eh, Cyc? :D

I would be interested in having a second hut here in Gorina. Unfortunately, I have been spending way to much time in the capital trying to make myself heard on issues that face our great nation, so my main home must remain there for now. But, hey, we did get that Settler pushed through.

Please feel free to notify me if you feel you are not being properly heard on any issue, and I will be the squeaky wheel.

Thank you, DZ. :) Yes, those were the days. And great work on the Settler issue. I'm sure you were the driving factor that got it pushed through. * Cyc raises his glass * Kudos to Donovan Zoi.

Until you can find time to Build a home here in Gorina, know that there will be a room for you here at the Gorina Palace.

I would like to settle and Build my home in this city. If it would be possible, could I be the National Guard Commander or sonething related to the Military :). (Since I am the Military Leader ;) )

The City of Gorina is honored to have the Military Leader's presence here. There is no more secure feeling than knowing you command the Armed Forces from Gorina. We will walk safely through our streets with the knowledge they are well protected. Welcome, CivGeneral. Thank you for choosing Gorina.

@Cyc: Please move me permanently into Gorina. I like Gorina and as several of my rpg charcs live here, so will I... :D

You got it Sir John. We were just waiting for an official post here by you. Some of our citizens have listed Gorina in the DG3 Citizen Registry as their Official Home, but I like to see some kind of post in this thread.

We are very glad to have you join our city. Please feel free to join in all the future events and to speak your mind about Gorina policy at any time. Again, welcome.

As Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina I advise our Mayor to use the roaded hill as second laborer spot, until we improve more river-side tiles. No danger of unhappiness when we hit size 2 or even size 3. We'll finish our granary in around 13 turns, depending on where, what and how many workers inprove our tiles. We need our granary for food and room for our new inhabitants. There is lillte else to advise upon, so I can dedicate my time to welcoming our new citizens; welcome Sir John, Civ general and his soldiers.

Thank you, Rik Meleet. I agree with you totally. In fact, in my last proposal, I recomended that the laborer be put on the roaded hill. This would cut down on tranportation time :) . But the President thought it would be better to place the laborer in the hills with the river. Same output, really (1-1-1). With all the other adjustsments the Prez has to do, it may not be worth the effort to request a change at this time.

Excellent Report, overall. Keep up the good work, Sir. :goodjob:

Originally posted by Cyc

Until you can find time to Build a home here in Gorina, know that there will be a room for you here at the Gorina Palace.

Thank you, Cyc, for your most generous hospitality. While I will be passing through from time to time, I promise to keep my intrusions to a minimum. However, I must admit that the comfort at your Palace far exceeds that of my little makeshift dwelling by the river.

Now for the business that brings me here. I just wanted to let you know that I have put in a request to the Governor for another Settler out of Gorina once the Granary is built. I hope that this meets with your approval.

My reasoning for this is that we are already falling behind our rivals in city production. Egypt has 6 cities; America and Greece have 5. I realize the importance of the Temple in regards to bringing the Iron within our radius, but we can use a worker in the interim if we need to.

Please let me know what you think.

Open letter of advice.

Dear Lord Mayor of the great city of Gorina; Great you say? ...yes, great; kind suppier of room for new citizens, granter of "Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina; Great you say? ...yes, great;" titels, keeper of priceless blackbirds and proud owner of the "The 1st Cultural Minister" medal of honor, Lord Cyc.

I've analysed the situation of the great city of Gorina; Great you say? ...yes, great; and my conclusions are that we have a grand future.

I predict that next turn we will increase our city-size by 50%. Our granary can be finished in 4 turns, by using laborers on the roaded hill-tile and the currently-worked-on plain-tile after we grow for 2 turns and then change the laborers from the roaded hill and the plains to 2 unworked grassland tiles. Unfortunately my corruption-fighting experience makes me fear that choosing just 1 of the proposed tiles will not suffiece as 1 shield will be stolen by corruption. It seems there is a slight tendency amongst some people living in this Great city of Gorina; Great you say? ...yes, great; to put their personal gains above that of the Great city of Gorina; Great you say? ...yes, great; and Fanatica. In due time we will reduce the corruption, but we'll not be able to do that just yet. So I advise to just allow them to have it and allow them to enjoy the shield. Let's pray that Jupiter will be forgiving for them...

This tile-use will lead to no gain in food for those 2 turns, but will reduce granary-production-time by 1. If we don't increase shield production by 2 we will also build 1 shield too much and it will be lost as we only need 60 shields for our granary, not 61...

When the workers finish roading the plain-tile either build roads on the grassland tiles, or irrigate the plains or build a road over the iron resource just outside our borders. The latter has no short term gain as the Gorinians are working hard and have no time to build up culture, but this helps connecting Nar to our road-net in future.

I also advise to discuss the current build queue, Granary - Settler - Warrior - Temple with all Citizens of Fanatica. I know you are wise beyond wise, but let's not deny all Fanticans a say in their future. I've heard this is called Demog..., err no Demok..., err no Denoc... err Temocra... err .... err ... just call it "all-Fanaticans-decide-despotism".

I'm asking your decision on this, dear Lord Cyc (or Cycus / Cycius).

Yours faithfully,

Your loyal advisor, Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina; Great you say? ...yes, great

Rik Meleet

### Daymohkrasee ?? ... err no. Demucra... no that's not it. Hang on, I'll think I'll get it right in a few thousand years...

I am sorry to say that I am moving out of Gorina. I normally woudnt do this but as I am a major in Nar Shadaa I feel like I have to.. Maby Ill move back in later.. :D

This will always be my second home :D

OK, Rik Meleet. Say it with me now...Dem - moc - racy. Once more, a little faster this time...Democracy...:D There you go.

Thank you so much for the Report. I like it. But I'm having trouble pulling up the save at the moment (thus no new screenshot). Let me work that out and I'll review your recomendations. While reading it, I thought I noticed a typo, but other than that it was great. Great? you say...yes, great. :) Oh, and just Cyc, please.

Sir John, Good Luck in Nar Shadda. It's nice to be able to personally welcome a new Mayor to our Province and nation. We are very proud, here in Gorina, to have one of our own raise up to become a successful Mayoral candidate. Carry on.

I wish you a very succesful time as mayor of Nar Shadaa. I hate to see you leave Gorina so soon. You're always welcome to move back in. Have you considered having a holiday house in Gorina for your much needed break from the stressing job as Mayor ?

Rik Meleet,
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

I'll practice with easier forms of Government first.

Despotism. Well our scientist already know this, this is easy.
Monarky. Hmm doesn't sound familiar. Monerchy. No, but close.Well I'll try something else.
Reep u blick. No. That will be some interesting form of government, but not yet. Maybe in a couple of hundreds of years.
Daym - o - ler - Benz. @%$&**#
Dem - muc - ray - NO !!!!
Day - moac - rrrrrrr -

I think I'll start learning writing and Literature first. In due time, after Bank - king and Pressing - Print (or something like that) I know I will know Du - Moc - Re - Si.

About the typos: I'm still 9 turns away from learning writing. I've just mastered the Alphabet. :D

Rik Meleet

To: The Minister of Worker Relations

Re: Last Report

Rik Meleet, I must say, I've gone through your report and the projected results are impeccable. By applying you theory and counting the needed shields in the production box, on the second turn we would reduce the build time on the Granary from 4 to 3 (5 to 4 overall as we waited a turn). Excellent work. I have faith in your corruption analysis, also. Although this is not a large gain, it will allow us to start our next Settler 1 turn earlier.

As far as the build queue, although I would like to see a Temple built as soon as possible in Gorina, I totally understand the need for immediate expansion. Therefore I would recomend that the Temple be put in second in the queue, after Settler (as shown in the picture).

Again, Rik Meleet. Excellent work.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gor1250bc.jpg

Dear mayor Cyc,

Our great scientist have learned the secrets of writing! I'm starting a letter; a sequence of the characters of the alphabet grouped into lines and forming a message in a way that requires no ears. I like this quaint experiment.... :D

In 2 turns we'll grow again. I fear that we won't be able to keep our people happy, or even content. Luckily the wines, which makes 1 Gorinian woman (Chieftess ???) happy will counterbalance the next citizen who I fear will be unhappy. We'll finish our settler before Gorina reaches size 5, so no unhappiness even then. In 3 turns the workers have finished mining the grassland, so more shields it seems.

Really?

No ! Due to corruption it'll be lost. :cry:

In our current build queue the next planned Gorina task is to train a warrior and after that a temple. With the needs of the citizens and the city-council of Gorina in view it's my duty as Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina to point out that at the moment Gorina would benefit more from a temple than a warrior.
The advantages are that a temple allows Gorina to have better happiness, Iron will come into our city-boundaries and it builds up culture.
Disadvantages are a weaker military and several turns used up. Depending on whether the spearman - settler pair East of Noshuret is going to claim the Dyes soon (and connect it to our roadnet) we might or might not be able to control happiness sufficiently. A temple will definitely control happiness.

As citizen of the great nation of Fanatica I can see that the nation might need the warrior badly. I wouldn't want to upset the President or the Military advisor. If our long-term national needs require a warrior I will advise to build it; national needs before Gorina's needs. As Fanatican I would like to point out the usefulness of iron though .... And a little culture never hurt anyone.

Let the workers improve another grassland tile after this tile. After that let's discuss what are the priorities for them then.

Our laborers are currently working the correct tiles. We can get 1 more shield (speeding our settler by 1 turn (from 6 to 5), but giving all our surplus food up. I advise against it; the more people Gorina has, the more important you become. And the more important you become, the more important I ... err ... well enough of my ambitions for now... :rolleyes:

(Rik is kicking himself for this slip of the tongue) :wallbash:

Your loyal deputy-mayor, :worshp:

Rik Meleet,
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

I've packed my things and left the capital. There's no excitement there and the local government can't even keep the pathways clear. I'm throwing together a little hut here in Gorina that I intend to call *home*. Maybe tomorrow I'll build another little hut for the judicial office. :hammer:

Donsig, I welcome you whole heartedly. Me, being Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina can assure you entertainment in the form of a temple will start here soon. Further plans are to hold an annual "We love the president day" here, since we are very focussed on citizens and national needs.

In future we are having weekly sports games and free alcoholic leisure gatherings. I'm afraid a date isn't planned yet for those last 2 occasions yet but you can be sure that will start when appropriate.

Before that we can offer you reduced land-prices, low taxes and an exiting job-offer in all kinds of directions. Care for a job as miner, agricultural expert or road-director ? We even have an application for iron-ore supervisor (soon) !!!

If there are special requests for leisure, please ask. We are very versatile in offering as much entertainment as our beloved citizens require.

"your wish is our command" as some would think !!

Regards,

Rik Meleet,
Deputy mayor and always awake.

We've got the vino connected. What more could we possibly need?:beer:

Welcome donsig! I'm so happy you have chosen to make Gorina your home. Now we are starting to look like a center for Government Affairs, with the Chief Justice and the Military Leader both residing in our great city. What an honor this is, indeed. Let me know when you're going to bulid your Judicail Chambers and I'll put in a special request for Rik Meleet to initiate "donsig avenue" as it's cross-street.

If its excitement you want, be sure to attend our river races this summer. They'll start up in the pleasant hills of Gorina and cruise right around the river-bend to the delight of all. There's never a bad seat for that event.

Now that we've learned writing, maybe you could start to put together a volume of Fanatika's Laws. Wouldn't that be grand. Ah, well, food for thought...

I'm glad you're a vino drinker. Next time you'd like to try a goblet from my private reserve, drop by. Again, welcome donsig.

Dear mayor,

After surveyeing our city-map I've been able to find a nice wide and tranquill street which leads to a large empty space, big enough for an office for the Chief Justice, yet close enough for our city centre to enjoy all entertainment, either from a distance or from within.

May I remind you that our next big happening is the rock-concert and after that the Chariot championships. We still need your approval for this. Also there is a request of starting mock-battles between a group of citizens who call themselves "the lions" and another group called "the christians". I approved of this since it will give our nation some combat experience. I appointed the lands across our river, at the foot of the hills as a suitable location for this; far enough to not hear the screams, yet close enough to be able to be seen from the Chief Justice office.

In future a circular stone building could be erected in which we can hold chariot racing, mock-battles and animal shows. I think our citizens would love this kind of culture. I'd suggest the name "Loccosseum" for this. If we build it high enough enough noise can be heard from outside to draw spectators, but not enough to be a burden on the ears of passers-by.

I have taken the liberty of uploading an outdated map of Gorina, which I adapted to point out the location of donsig street.

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

What an honor to have street named after me already! Thank you! I beg our local government to keep the street clean. The biggest reason I left the left the capital was our inability to walk down the street what with all the discarded granary polls lying about. ;) I will be out today gathering sticks and straw for the JDH (Judicial Department Hut). That talk of building things out of stone is intriguing. Perhaps we should write the idea down before we forget it?
I look forward to all the exciting civic events outlined above. Keep up the good work!

RM,
Thank you for your Report of Mayus Twenty-Secondary. Again I agree with your findings. As far as the Temple, I suggested inserting it in the queue instead of a Warrior to the Governor, but he's adamant about having an escort for each Settler group. Personally, I believe we have enough Warriors wandering around to cover our immediate needs.

Excellent work on "donsig Street"! Although, I'd like that to be "donsig Avenue", the immediate change is not neccesary. The location is perfect.

Ah,...A rock concert :goodjob: Nothing like a rock concert to help one roll their own stone. If we supply the appropriate tools at the concert, it should be a smashing success! :) Chariot races should be fun and I'll leave the mock battles up to you. Please keep in mind that I detest one-sided contests. All of these events would be appropriate for your "loccoseum" idea, although I fear our great city would have to be much larger and stable before we could entertain that idea. Hmmm. A loccosseum would be a great place to make a speech...:groucho:

Keep up the great work, RM.

Dear Mayor,

I've improved my picture in 2 ways. First I named the Avenue correctly (just learned writing) and Second I've included the pride of Gorina; our granary.

Donsig: Have no fear; no granary polls in Gorina.

In Gorina all is: ROME SWEET ROME

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

Mayor Cyc, Mayor Cyc !!!

It seems our Loccosseum is attracting some strange reactions. Camping outside the city-hall is a, ahum well I think "madman" is the best description, singing, dancing and shouting. He addresses all passers-by with a petition. He demands that, when our Loccosseum is built, that he is allowed to open it officially by putting up a one man show. He wants to demonstrate his "glad" skills. :confused: I'm not sure what that is, but he looks very dangerous. I fear for your safety.

He calls himself Gladiatus. I'm not sure how we should respond to this. It can be a good idea, but it can also turn out for the worst. He could destroy all fun. Have a look at him.

Rik Meleet

Hmm...interesting. Nice Headgear, but he's kind of pretty for a tough guy, don't you think? :)

Anyway, tell him he's won his first Government contract. If its fame and fortune he wants, he can fight for the Office of the Mayor (I assume that's what he want to do with that sword and shield), but he must stop demonstrating in public.

Mmm, let's see. Draw up a contract that says he shall wear red, the color of the gods, he will walk around saying things like "Strength and Honor", that sort of thing. But until we get our colosseum (oops, mispelled it), he shall have to be satisfied with playing the suburbs of Gorina and at some of the larger houses.

And as far as that name goes, can we change a few of those letters? Your good at that writing stuff, you handle it.

Good luck,

the Mayor

Lord Mayor,

I've gathered all my inner strength and went to talk to the guy. To smoothen up the talks I brought an amphora of vino. Of course I didn't take it from your personal vino-cellar, I took one of my own -cheap- vino-amphoras.
Surprisingly he turned out very sophisticated and friendly, not dangerous at all. He was very grateful for the vino. When I informed him of your decision he was happy, not even slightly irritated. It seems he is a very loyal and strong citizen. He left our city-hall immediately, stopped his petition and is calling "Strength and Honor" now. He went to the riverbank and is showing of his skills for a small fee. He also agreed to donate this fee in our treasury when I promised him he'd be our opening act for our Colosseum -yes it is a far better name for it-. After that I saw him writing in his dairy. He offered me to read it. It looked very interesting and was very pleasurable to read, although it is very hard to comprehend; much more complex then I can write. This might turn out what our scholars are searching for; literature. It seems our Gladiatus is an Author (whatever that means).

He did ask me to hand you a request. He would like your blessing to be allowed to guard you when you are on a dangerous mission. A sort of presbyterrian guard of one. I can advise you to do this; he seems very qualified in close-range combat, and he can entertain us with his writing in dull moments.

The only part of him I didn't like was his comment on my vino. He called it "no real character, dull aftertaste without the fruity aroma he'd grown to value. A cheap substitute without personality and from a bad year". He'll never get another one from me. :mad:

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

To: Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations

First things first, RM. I'm not very happy about you having to drink "the cheap stuff". I want you, as part of your new City employee perks (I love dreaming up new words:) ), to allocate a cask of fine wine for yourself. I trust you shall drink with moderation, so I will always have cask in reserve on your account. You will also be responsible for seeing that Gladiatus (are you working on that name?) gets a decent goatskin from your cask occasionally. He obviously has well-hidden character that he displays only in his choosing of words and his vino drinking.

Also, see that he has decent living quaters. I don't want him sleeping down by the river. In doing this, try to persuade him to let me read his journal. In fact, if he has a lot of them, maybe we could store them for him in room here at the Palace. That way, you or I could borrow one for pleasure reading or instructional means.

And tell him I'll get back to him on the bodyguard thing. I have quite a few of those already, and I haven't been going on any dangerous mission, lately.

Kudos to the Worker Relations Department of Gorina. Your doing great work. I'm so glad you've joined our ranks here at the Palace of Gorina.

Cyc

And here's the latest update of city stats...

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gorina1025bc.jpg

It's great to see the plebians improving the land around our fine city. That Gladiatus is a great fellow! Went down to the riverbank the other day and saw his display of skills. Quite impressive. He is a friendly and helpful chap. I had gotten tired of rebuilding the judicial bench after every session. Seems I'm too enthusiastic with my gavel :hammer: and kept breaking the bench I'd made out of sticks. I found this wonderfully flat slab of rock that would make a great judicial bench and Gladiatus helped me drag it down Donsig Avenue and into the JDH. Now and can use my gavel as much as I want! :hammer: :hammer: :hammer:

Dear Mayor,

We are in a precarious situation. Or at least we will be if we will not pay attention. The way our plebs are working will lead to Gorina being size 4 in 4 turns (Don't ask me how the plebs do that ... :blush: ). From our friends in Noshuret I draw the conclusion the next citizens will be unhappy. When we focus on growth and the tile used by the new laborer will be an unworked grassland we'll grow in another 5 turns to size 5; again the new citizen will also be unhappy. Our temple will still not be ready then, it requires 15 turns from today. That would mean disorder. :aargh: It seems new citizens will not like us.

We have to fight this unhappyness by some more military police, some luxury (I doubt Inadatto will expand and connect the Dyes soon enough :nono: ). We could request a lux increase to counter this or even consider putting clowns in Gorina. I don't like it, I don't like it, I don't like it...

Alternatively we put our Laborer to work NOT on the grassland, but on the roaded plains we will loose 1 food, thus grow to size 5 in 10 turns, but have our temple created in 4 + 9 (loosing 3 shields) = 13 turns.

I prefer the MP solution, but I'm only an advisor.

Thank you for your vino-cask. I will enjoy it. I'm shocked though you'd think of me drinking it in an Bacchus-like way. I'm not a God like Bachhus; I am a Minister of Worker Relations, so I drink it in a modest way and quantity.

About Gladiatus;
I asked him if he was known by another name. He said no. I asked him whether he would change his name for your sake. He refused. And frankly I agree with him. He shouldn't be forced to change his name because you don't like it enough. I gave him a house in our new suburb, fully equiped with all necessary commodities and included a personal training-room for his Glad-skills. When he saw it he named it dojo and started training. He is very happy in Gorina and is hoping for an opportunity to be a Presbyterrian guard and can't wait for our Colosseum to be build. I told him carefully that this might take some time. I didn't exactly tell him at least a 1000 years ....

He promissed me that I could read his diaries and approved of me showing it to you and for publication, but not until he finished it. And since he is so busy doing all his stuff he doesn't get around to writing in it very often. I must ask for your patience.

I am just stunned at the size of the judicial bench Gladiatus build for Donsig. I can hardly believe he did it by himself if I hadn't seen it build with my own eyes. You can see how it looks below my message.

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

Whoa! That's a rockin' Judicial Bench! :D It looks like donsig has already beaten the heck out of it with his gavel. :lol: You weren't kidding, were you donsig. Seriously, I'm glad to see our citizens are working well together. This is a good sign of a stable future for our great city.

But as to your Letter of Advice, Rik Meleet, I finally must disagree with you. If we move the laborer from the unworked grassland to the roaded plain (with river) now, we will not only gain an extra gold coin (1 more than any other tile), but we will grow in 8 turns (stay with me on this). We may or may not lose the next shield to corruption (it's irrelevant either way), but I'm sure you're right about the next citizen being unhappy. If we lose the shield, the Temple will be done in 12 turns. If we don't lose the shield, the temple will be done in 11 turns. Either way, we will have our Temple before we reach Pop size 5. Even if we put the Pop size 4 laborer on the unworked grassland, which is where it should go for growth, the Temple will still be complete before we reach Pop size 5. So, in conclusion, I believe the existing MP's will suffice and the unhappy citizen will rejoice when the Temple opens its doors.

I do agree that our new city, Inadatto, was slightly misplaced (if that's what you were saying), but we have a long standing history of that. I doubt that will ever be cured. And clowns in Gorina? Are you trying to make us look like Noshuret? :lol: j/k.

Anyway, good work with Gladiatus (I guess the name will stay) and the vino, too. If I didn't have faith in you, I would not have hired you. Why don't you take the day off and go fishing or something. Cya.

Cyc

Dear Mayor.

That is not what I meant. My calculations were based on keeping all our laborers where they are, but putting our 4th laborer working the plains with roads near the river.

I do not specifically judge the loation of Inadatto, I was pointing out that with it's current location the Dyes will not be hooked up soon enough as a means to allow us to benefit from it.

Rik

To Rik: Sorry if I've misunderstood you. Enjoying your day off?

To all: Here's the latest update -

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gorina775bc.jpg

It seems we have lost our plebians! Do we have to recruit our own in order that roads and mines be built? There's no point in starting a great project in Gorina if the city's lands lay unimproved.

There are plenty of warriors lolling about. Have one of them added to our garrison and there will be no talk of civil disorder.

What plans does the city have for the opening of our temple? Shall we sacrifice goats and sheep or a national government official or two?

Greetings from sunny Toscana,

Rik Meleet on a fishing trip.

Nice fishing trip, RM. But tell me, it's been so long. Which way does the Tower of Pisa lean? North? Nice paintings, too. They look so realistic.

@donsig - You are right about the workers. They seem to have been moved to the eastern front. But we fared pretty well while they were in our area. We've got 4 roads and two mines. Noshuret only has 6 roads and two mines, and they have almost twice the territory as we do. But they have a worker and we don't. About the Wonder...I was against it in the begining, as I thought trying to build one would be a futile attempt. But people keep talking about the Great Library and how important it is, and we are doing so well technologically. So I finally agreed with the Governor when he put it in the build queue. Not to fret though, he's changed his mind again. Now we will build Settlers. First we go left, then we go right, then we move forward, and then we back up. It seems like we really never go anywhere. I think we need to pick a direction and stick with it. It looks like we've decided Settlers are the most important thing today. Unfortunately, that means we've spent all this time going for Literature just so we can build libraries. :rolleyes:

As far as the opening of the Temple, whenever that will be, just the usual. They'll light some bushes on fire and shake their beads at the sky. And we definitely won't be sacrificing national government officials here in Gorina. :D The smell would be horrendous :lol:

Maybe if we would sacrifice them and send the remains over to noshuret this would reduce the smell and maxout the fun :-)

But nevertheless, i think we urgently need to settle... so settlers should really be the best idea... anyways, our people WANT to get out of town... so why not let them?

We need to be careful to not get too many cities build near us though, as we may end up with a huge city and need the space.
we should insist to the governor and the domestic depeartment to keep a 3 tile space around gorina free of cities ;-)

Nah, dis. As I found out in DG2, torching National figures only drums up so much fun and then it over. I mean once the screaming stops, what are you going to do? Watch 'em burn? I think not. But speaking of revolutionary ideas....

Does this mean, dis, that you are now a confirmed citizen of Gorina? If so, we're glad to have you. I remember the last time you moved into an area that I governed (DG1). You were kind of revolting then :lol: . But your revolution was an historical event. The first of its kind.

I have no problem with the current build queue change. I would have liked to have seen the Temple built now, but that would have hindered the success of other cities and given us Iron without burning a Worker. By the way, the Temple could have been done in 12 turns.

I also agree with you about using the OCP (Optimal City Placement) method with our growth projections. With all the open space we have to utilize, I can't see hindering Gorina's full tile usage. But then again, most cities I'm associated with are targeted for growth stuntage in one form or another. IMHO, all new cities should be kept 5 tiles away from the Gorina city tile until we've exhausted all the other great sites available to us. There's really no need to steal tiles from Gorina when we need to set up a city and surrounding community for the Forbidden Palace. I'll pass the word along, as you wish.

Well, sire, i think this time i am mooving here in peace, as i already own this place in the rpg :-)

I also think we should try to use as few cities as possible to cover the peninsula with our cultural sphere.... so we wont have a conflict there... but i also think that our city will soon be the biggest in fanatica... and its the best anyways :-)

Hmmm... work on our temple has stopped? The governor must have read my post about sacrificing leaders there. ;)

Oh my God, I've been (sent) on holiday for just 1 day and already the whole city is in a different state than I left it. No temple, talking of Aztecian practise of people burning and no option than to sacrifice workers to get Iron.

I'm not sure that I, as Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina, am capable to keep our workers motivated and working if I am sacrificing one of them.

Mayor: Please accept my temporal resignation for the time someone else informs the workers that 1 will be sacrificed for Iron. When that has been taken care of I will resume my tasks as Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina, ending the sacrifices and becoming the undisputed leader of the workers.

Might even be better, when we are adopting this Aztecan custom, to continue Aztecan tradition and steal or buy a foreign worker to "complete this honorable tasks". He'll be a worker-hero (yeah right, sac the fool ! ) ;)

**** 3 hours and 4 bottles of Vino later ****

Lord Mayor,
Don't accept my resignation, I now *hic* really do want to sacrifice a worker. Might be fun to sea *hic*, pardon me *hic* ... err ... see the idiot burn as a sac *hic* rafice to our Gods for Iron. After all, they are dispensable.

I, err I have a headache, I'm going to vomit and sleep. I'll show you my fish in the morning or afternoon, when I wake up.

Rik Meleet
Minister of something of the great city of Garino (or something like that).

**** Rik Meleet is falling down, with a stench of puke and spilled Vino around him and sleeps instantly ****

People of Gorina - Here's the lastest update to the Gorina stats. Things have definitely changed since 775bc. After reading snippets of info here and there and checking the save, I would say things have taken a bizzare turn. I mean I attended the Presidential Debates, and those were bizzare, but after a week of following the build queue changes and proposed city locations and our new proposed National priorities, I would have to say that glancing at the 570bc save surpasses those debates. After posting these stats, I'm going to settle down and read the chat log. Maybe that will help.

BTW, Governor eyrei, I've changes the laborer situation for our city in the picture below. Please make the change in the game also. I believe Gorina should be using the Iron tile for production purposes. Funkytowne can use a forest tile and get the same output. :rolleyes: Please let us use the Iron tile...As you can see, the Temple will be completed in 9 turns, as opposed to the 15 turns in the picture.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gorina570bc.jpg

As a new citizen, I think I would enjoy living here, if that's alright with all of you fine fellows. And where can I get some of that vino? :D

Sorry Cyc, I was away for awhile. I decided to move in to Gorina. I plan on moving west in the far future, but until then I will live here.

Welcome Gentlemen. As Mayor of this great city, I extend to you all the benefits we have available here. Isaac Newton and Panzer are now bonifide citizens of Gorina. As previous posts will affirm, ours is a very friendly community and most citizens will be more than happy to help you get acquainted with your new surroundings. If you would like to become part of our local city government, please let us know. Again, welcome.

Fear not Rik Meleet. As you say, things have changed. The Temple is back, no Workers have (or will) be sacrificed, and all is well in Gorina. In fact, we've sent happy Settler groups out to populate our fine nation in other locations.

Therefore, I emphatically, systematically, and categorically refuse the resignation earlier presented to me. Welcome back RM. I'm glad to see you found a proper use for that vino! It's good to see you can party as hard as you work.

Fine mayor, what positions do we have in the governemtn of Gorina? I am interested in taking a job and no longer being a lazy hobo of Gorina (though the the title is appealing).

Hmmm, tell me Isaac_Newton, what's the difference between a lazy hobo and an active hobo? Oh, never mind. That's a question to be answered over a glass of vino sometime.

Let's see...what positions are open at this time...hmmm, judging from your namesake maybe head of the Research and Development Department. Something that might allow you to gravitate towards the National Science Department. :) I'm not quite sure what the job responsibilities would be at this time, but I'm thinking maybe you could keep an eye on our beakers. Maybe you could calculate new ways to improve our city in that regard. What do you think?

That sounds splendid. I have no plan of going to the Science department currently, but it's an idea.. I dutifully and thankfully accept the position of Head of the Research and Development Department of Gorina. My first promise in office is to refrain from physics jokes.;)

Now, about the difference between a lazy hobo and an active hobo is that the active hobo gets all the glory :D

Excellent Sir Isaac_Newton! We're so glad you were able to join the ranks of the Gorina employees. Welcome aboard. I've updated the first post of this thread to reflect your new position. I've also set up your accont, similiar to Rik Meleet's, and have allocated a cask of vino to you. Enjoy. Also keep in mind that donsig, another Gorina citizen, is one of Fanatica's leading scientists. He may be a good source for scientific discussion. (I am personally aware of his fondness for a glass of vino occasionally, too ;) .)

Panzer:

To you a very warm welcome to Gorina also. I know your plans are to slowly move westwards. I will do my best to convince you to stay here; to open your eyes.

For the moment: what are your needs? I can take care of housing, entertainment and work. If you have more unusual request, please come to me; the Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina and I will make sure that they will be granted or will be offered to our Mayor to decide upon. Up till now I haven't seen 1 serious request being refused.

Why are you moving west ? I am sure Gorina can take a lot of steps to meet your motives. Feel free to ask. My motto in this is; "If Caius Agrippina won't come to the mountain, we'll move the mountian to Caius Agrippina". Anything is possible.

Isaac_newton; Sir:

The same goes for you: put all your domestic request for me and I will grant them or offer them to Cyc for a decision. With a name like that you'd might want to use your spare-time in our apple-orchard, you might even learn something. There are 3 laws on falling apples, but they are "hidden in the night". I don't know what they are. I juse call them; "The Cider-house laws".

I hear a poem in the back of my head.
"The laws of Nature where hidden in the night"
"Then came Newton and they came in the light".

Don't know what it means though.

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

Dear Mayor,

There is not much to say. There is really only one important thing concerning Gorina, but I've seen you already plea this to the Government. Ask the National Government or the rulers of Funkytowne to use the Iron-tile. Use that tile instead of the unworked grassland tile. This will reduce growth from 4 to 8 turns, but increase the temple-production from 15 turns to 9. Although there are no happyness problems and we can grow because of the Dyes to size 5 or even 6 without temple without happyness problems. If Gorina is the city for Wonders the temple is important. If the National Government decides we need to build Wonders, please convinve them that we then need workers to improve our tiles in order to be able to generate a lot of shields.

It seems Stuck's idea of a mid-nation Maginot line is getting performed. This might lead to a vulnerable Gorina, if other Civs or even barbs appear in our backyard in the west. Personally I don't believe in barbs, but a galley might prove dangerous.

Thank you for not sarcificing workers. They are dispendable, but still scarce only sacrifice them for real urgent reasons, not because our National Government has more urgent needs than a strong Gorina.

I do believe we are able to produce 1 more settler if necessary, but I think Gorina has done its task in this. Noshuret en Penguinadua can do this, but we also need some western cities to build settlers to claim our rightful west. Do not object too strongly to this. The more we help our Nation now, the more they'll help us later. The return on investment might be huge.

I've held a poll in our city and 78% of our citizens are prepared to train a settler. But they all want to return someday.

Do you want me to do something special for our growing population ? Isaac, Panzer and Disorganiser have been offered the usual (houses, work, position, status and vino), but might like an extra bonus. I still have some ideas to surprise them positively. I'm not going to spoil it yet, but it involves Gladiatus as well. He is eager to meet our new citizens. Do you permit me to organise it ?

Awaiting your response.

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

To: RM

Sure. :goodjob: Even though I'm walking into this one blind, I give you permission to organize your event. I'm sure Gladiatus will perform at peak levels in amazing and delighting the citizens.

It seems we agree on the quest for a higher form of Government. I believe Monarchy is the appropriate direction for us to head in.

I'm glad you're happy with the recent developments in Gorina. I wouldn't mind producing another Settler group here, but I'd really like to see the Temple put in first. I've always enjoyed creating Settlers...:groucho:

OK, I'm off to taste-test the latest batch of Vino de Gorina. Good luck with your event!

Mayor Cyc:

My plan for entertainment has had 2 major-set backs. The first is that against my expectations, our scientist haven't succeeded in researching literature yet. I was hoping for that to have been finished by now. You haven't heard of Gladiatus recently; he has found time to continue his diary and other writing. He is ready, science isn't yet.

My second setback concerns the availability of Gladiatus. The resent events concerning Egypt has put a stop to Gladiatus' writing, he has started a "How to become a Legionair"-training for some warriors. He is moving around a lot to other cities offering his service as a Legion-trainer for local warriors. As you know he has written the handbook on Legionairism and it seems our Military Advisors need him to train groups of warriors to Legions.

In short: I have to postpone our literature-reading night. Maybe we even have to cancel it.

I'll think of something else of entertainment, maybe the newly gained dyes could be used. Your favorit color is red right ? I am thinking of a combined dyes / vino festival named: "Paint the town red". I'll work on it.

Rik Meleet

Dear Mayor.

It's war.

I don't like war now. It seems again our glorious temple will be denied to us, for the war effort. At least that is what I expect. But it will be a stupid move. We have progressed so far in creating a temple that switching it now will waste several shields. For instance, if we change our temple to a Legionary we'll loose 6 shields (2 turns) and that unit will only be a regular. If we change to barracks we'll loose 16 shields (over 5 turns). This is a bad investment to make in these times. If we are allowed to build a temple first, in the set-up I projected in my picture below, we'll finish our temple in 4 turns, but do not save up any food. We can also opt to not work the roaded plains and grasslands. We'll grow in 4 turns and the temple is ready in 5 turns. When the temple is finished either pull the laborer off of the roaded plains and onto the grassland or keep him there. It's a political decision of national importance so the national government can decide, for all I care. I expect the smartest build after temple is barracks. And then Legionary or horseman, depending how far our troops have advanced and what the military is desiring. So my proposed build-queue is: temple -> barracks -> legionary. There are 2 key-parts for this plan to succeed.

1) Get Funkytowne of our Iron and let it be used by Gorina. Funkytowne has several forest tiles present and it's not that useful to Funkytowne as it is to Gorina !
2) Gorina is allowed to finish it's temple. This is a hard call and frankly I don't expected those out-of-towners who never experienced the magnificent atmosphere that is Gorina to allow this. It will be swept of the table with non-arguments like: soldiers are more important now or we need barracks in Gorina.

Dear Mayor, I urge you: Beg, plea, shout, threaten, reason and talk those politicians in Noshuret to convince them my 2 key-parts are getting the best out of Gorina and therefore the Fanatican nation.

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

It was the day of Gorina's first parade.

Having just accepted his nomination, Rik Meleet's last official function as Deputy Mayor of Gorina was to oversee the many facets of today's event. He had brought in dancers from Penguinadua, clowns from Noshuret, and the best of the working staff in Gorina. New technology was apparent in the shiny brass musical instruments, as they flashed in the sunlight. Some were shaped like long spouts, others were shorter, but all made beautiful sounds. They were to be followed by the ranks of drummers. Each drum, wooden slats bound together, had cowhide stretched across the top of it, and was to be struck in the rhythm of the parade.

Horses had been brought in from the Plains of the Lake, outfitted in bright red, and used in most of the operations of the parade. And of course, there was the local branch of the military, drilled by our own CivGeneral. Horsemen and Legionaries, in tight military fashion, waited for their queue.

Minister of Worker Relations, Rik Meleet scanned the final checklist. He was ready to begin.

Rik Meleet signaled his lead men, and the mass of people began to shift, each finding their own spot. The music from the horns and drums began to fill the air with their movement from the courtyards of the Gorina Palace. Slowly, they began their march towards the center of the city. Right on queue, Gladiatus sprints out in front of the band of musicians, wearing his ornate headgear and flashing his sword and shield. He would lead the parade with his fine displays of battle prowess. Swinging and darting back and forth across the street, Gladiatus thrilled the crowds, who stepped back with oohs ans aahs. Wisely, Rik Meleet had chosen Gladiatus to lead the parade, as the sometimes wild displays cleared the streets for the band follow in. Behind the band came the Military, led by CivGeneral on horseback. Granduer best describes this portion of the parade as the soldiers marched in sync with the music and the horsemen's cadence delighted the crowds, who were throwing flowers to our men in uniform, soon to be off to war.

Alongside the parade were Workers pushing carts filled with small loaves of bread. Each Worker had a wineskin hung over his shoulder to keep him refreshed as he randomly threw these small loaves into the crowds lining the streets. Occasionally, they would even share their wine with friends in the crowd. The noon sun was high and the people of Gorina were happy.

Next came the grand Chariots carrying the aficiando. In the lead of this proud line of Officiaries is donsig, Chief justice. White robed and smiling, he waves to the cheering crowds. Behind his chariot are the two carrying Peri and Bootstoots, the Judge Advocate and Public Defender, respectively. Their chariots are followed by the scantily-clad and beautiful dancers of Penguinadua, whose black and white scarves hold tribute to their namesake. Behind them are the chariots of Isaac_Newton, the Head of Research and Development, and the newly eminent Rik Meleet, Minister of Worker Relations and now candidate for the position of Mayor in the City of Penguinadua. They were followed by the clowns, running and cartwheeling through the streets to the delight of the younger audiance. A few more horses, soldiers, and band members finish up the parade, with one lone City Worker in tow, throwing out the final loaf of bread to the celebrating crowds.

Gladiatus leads the parade to city centre and heads for donsig Avenue.

Although donsig Avenue only runs about 200 yards to the steps of the Judicial building, it is more than wide enough to accomodate the parade. The immense proccession has no problem turning the corner and heading West towards the awaitng crowds. As each portion of the parade turns onto the Avenue, the Judicial Building in all its glory looms into view. The parade will round the fountain in front of the Grand Steps of the building.There, officials will disembark. Greeted by aides, they will climb the stairs to the podium, where Mayor Cyc awaits them.

As Gladiatus reaches the steps, he sprints about half way up, turns towards the audience and raises his arms in Victory. The crowd goes wild. Gladiatus is truly a crowd pleaser in Gorina. He then takes his leave to go rest.

Chief Justice donsig has arrived and is now climbing up the twenty-some steps. There he sees Cyc at the podium with benches to the left and the right of him. To the left are sitting various prominent citizens of Gorina, to include disorganizer and Panzer. Soon officials from the parade will join them. To the right is the newly elected President, Donovan Zoi. With him are Governor eyrei, President Shaitan (who might make an exit speech), and any Council members who were able to attend. The VP had to stay in Noshuret to run the country briefly while the President was with us. Cyc greets donsig with a handshake and a few words. donsig then acknowledges the President and the others. As the other officials climb the steps and take their seat, Mayor Cyc sounds the trumpets, and then addresses the people gathered for the event.

"Welcome citizens of Gorina. We are honored here today with the presence of two Presidents of Fanatica, several Council members, and our Governor. We also have in attendance prominent people from our community, whom I'm sure you're all aware of. But this day goes out to the Judicial Department of Fanatica and the Ceremonial Opening of the Judicial Building." The crowd applaudes as this structure is another addition to the things that put Gorina on the political map, so to speak. "So without any further ado, I would like you to join me in welcoming back for a second term as Chief Justice, donsig!" Cyc steps back applauding and waits as his good friend takes control of the podium.

Thank you, Mr, Mayor. Thank you for your kind words my friend. Thank you for sponsoring this great parade on this great day. Gorina is truly the best city in our country! We are here to celebrate the opening of our new Judicial Building. This is an impressive building indeed but I foresee a time when Gorina will hold wonders that will dwarf even this accomplishment. We are surrounded today by many of our nation's leading officials and I challenge them here and now to lay the groundwork needed in order to make my vision come true. Gorina has the potential to become a very great city indeed. A city that will be able to produce the great wonders I speak of. Wonders that will not only make Gorina one of the greatest cities in the world but will also benefit all the citizens of our country! I challenge our leaders to earmark a work force to Gorina dedicated to improving the city's growth and production. I realize we have entered a time of war but we must not let the cursed Egyptians deter us from the goals we have already set for ourselves as a nation. We did not ask for war, we did not want war. We only wanted to see our country grow and our people happy. We only wanted to build temples and dream of building great projects. Let us not lose our dreams nor lose precious time because of this war. Let us defend ourselves as we must. Let us even take the war to the warmongers. But let us also continue to work towards fulfilling our dreams. Let us continue to devote part of our energy to the preparation and eventual construction of great wonders.
What we have done here in Gorina on a small scale with this wonderful new Judicial Building can also be done on a grand scale if only the powers that be will allow it.
Thank you again, Mr. Mayor, for your help in getting this magnificent Judicial Building constructed. Thank you, Rik Meleet, for all you've done for this project and for Gorina. That is enough ramblings from an old man. I will sit down so that more important people can speak. I only ask that they refrain from long winded speeches so that we may all partake of the vino that much sooner! :beer:

When the ovational applauds of Donsig's speechs slowly drowns Rik Meleet steps to the podium. The anxious crowd awaits his speech. Some surprised citizens notice something strange in Rik Meleet's posture but the majority are screaming and yelling cheers. Rik Meleet moves his arms in the air and slowly bring them down to sue for silence.

He gets a sheet of paper out of his tunica and fold it open. He has difficulty looking up to the crowd.

"My dear fellow-Gorinians, lord Donovan Zoi, Shaitan, Cyc, and members of the central offices"
The crowd grasp their breath, there is some sadness in Rik's voice.
"I welcome you all to this parade. Mayor Cyc, Gladiatus, all Gorinians and I have worked hard and spent many a gold-piece to organise this great event. I am very very proud to be a Gorinian."
Cyc looks at his minister and sees a tear in Rik's eye. He knows what Rik is going to say, but he also knows the crowd doesn't know yet that they might have to say goodbye to their beloved Minister of workers relations of the great city of Gorina.

"My thanks go out to all who have helped to build up Gorina and to create this magnificent parade. I will miss you all dearly".

The crowd can't believe their ears. There are quick glances at eachother to see if everyone realises the impact of what has been said.

With a breaking voice Rik continues.
"I am so sorry, but I have to leave you all. I am a candidate to run for the mayor-ship of Penguinadua and so far the only candidate. I will probably leave you soon". Rik grasps for breath and the silence gives room to some shouts from the crowd: "No !!!, you have to stay; we need you !!".

This makes Rik throw away the speech. He starts to talk back. "My friends, and you are all my friends, I have no choice. My time in Gorina has been the best part of my life, but I have to move on. Don't see this as a goodbye, but as a first step to join the great cities of Gorina and Penguinadua. In several years the 2 cities will be known as "the twins". We will not be alike in looks, but in minds we will be identical. I welcome you all to visit Penguinadua when I've settled in, but I understand if you stay living in Gorina. I myself will keep my house here, although I obviously also live in Penguinadua. This is not a goodbye, this is a new start. Make me proud !"

The tears are at this moment flowing freely down Rik's cheeks. The crowd is flabbergasted. Rik Meleet looks unsurely to Cyc. Mayor Cyc walks to Rik, hugs him and claps his hands. Slowly a small round of applause starts in the crowd and soon a huge applause comes up from the crowd. The public, some with tears in their eyes, keep clapping their hands and while Cyc is allowing Rik to cry loudly on his shoulder he urges the crowd to celebrate the things Rik has done for Gorina and to give Rik what he deserves. Rik finally gets himself together and loosens himself from Cyc's shoulder. He turns to the crowd and shouts: "This is no time for grief, bring the vino and celebrate Gorina's and Fanatica's future. Together we can make it, let's all stand firm and repell our enemies. You'll be in my heart forever and you can still see me very often walking down donsig avenue."

As Rik turns to be seated again, he waves at the audience.

Cyc throws his arms into the air "Rik Meleet!" The audience lets out a loud cheer. He then approaches the podium and again yells "Rik Meleet!" to which the crowd again responds with a roar. Cyc bows in the direction of Minister Meleet and returns upright to address the gathering.

"People of Gorina, we have had a glorious day in Gorina. The Parade and Celebration, the opening of the Judicial Building, and speeches from people we admire which key on the future! A future which holds many a promise for you and your loved ones. Let us continue this Celebration of Justice until the last few torches are extinguished. Perhaps we may even get a speech or two from our honored guests..." Cyc glances to his left with a large grin, then looks back at the crowd. "Party on, people!"

As the festivities begin in earnest, the guests on the stage congregate and talk amongst themselves. The past and present Presidents, Shaitan and Donovan Zoi are joking and laughing and spirits are high. Still, there is an undercurrent of excitement and nervousness and much talk of war with the Egyptians.

From a corner of the crowd a chant begins. "Shaitan!", "Speech!", "Shaitan!", "Speech!". Shaitan smiles and does his best to politely ignore them but the chant grows in strength and is picked up by the crowd at large. Chuckling a bit, he excuses himself from President Zoi and walks to the podium. The crowd cheers lustily and then falls mostly silent as he gestures.

"I had not intended to make a speech today as this is a day of beginnings and my tale is an ending. So, forgive me if I ramble a bit."

Shaitan smiles self-deprecatingly and is rewarded by chuckles and cheers from the crowd.

"As I said, this is a day for beginnings. This magnificent court building behind me will help Gorina to be the model of law and fair cooperation for all of Fanatika. Use this building not only as an edifice but as a symbol of what we can be. Not a mark of what we have achieved but rather what we have yet to achieve.

"When I first took office our capital was a stone hut. Our people numbered in the thousands. Now I see a strong and mighty nation. Our cities cross the breadth of the land. We have explored far and wide. We have met other civilizations and dealt fairly and honorably with them. Would that they all were so fair and honorable themselves. But even Egypt's aggression is a spark for a new beginning. Egypt's lands are a great meeting place for many different nations. Cleopatra seeks to bludgeon us down for she fears what our rise will mean to them. I say, show her! Turn her agression back on her. Make this war a statement of what it means to attack Fanatica. When our legions march through Elephantine the whole world will know the proper fear and respect for mighty Fanatica!"

Shaitan stops speaking as the crowd erupts into cheers and howls of support. It takes a few minutes to quiet them enough for him to continue.

"I will miss leading you during this exciting time but I am confident that you will do fine without me. You have a fine body of elected leaders with an excellent President at their head. With you fine people behind them there is nothing that they cannot do. Nothing that Fanatica, working together, cannot accomplish!

"Thank you my friends and enjoy the festivities!"

Shaitan retires from the podium to earth shaking applause.

Cyc approaches the podium and waits patiently for the cheers to subside, but they do not. He takes a sip of wine from his goblet and looks at the crowd. He then yells something to the audience, but it goes unheard in the almost crushing applause. It appears he is doing a pantomime act, when suddenly he shrugs and drammatically points at Shaitan with both hands. If it was possible for the cheering to get any louder at that point it did. Cyc smiles and shakes his head, wanders off inside the Judicial Building.

I have decide to resign as mayor of Nar Shadaa as it is the most boring little city ever... :D

So therefore Im back here in Gorina and I hope to find myself a little town here to enjoy this magnificent city.

@Cyc and Rik: youre doing a great job!

Glad to have you back, Sir John. Thank you. Here, have a glass of vino and make yourself comfortable. We're anxiously awaiting more speeches, what a night! Again, welcome back.

With the Celebration still raging, the large crowd shifts noisely back and forth in the dimly lit courtyards of the Judicial building. The Mayors guards clear the steps of small groups of citizens who were resting there, then the large torches are lit at the corners of the elevated level atop the steps. Two more large torches are brought out and set on each side of the podium, far enough away where the heat from them won't be a concern, and lit. Slowly the audience starts to notice the well lit entrance of the Judicial Building. They start to keep one eye on the top of the steps and one eye on their drink.

Mayor Cyc checks with his men to make sure the area is secure and signals the presidents men. He then waits for a return signal. There it is... Cyc steps to the podium. In the brief seconds before he speaks, he feels the warmth of the torches and sees their light reflected in the many eyes of the citizens below.

With pride in his voice, Cyc declares "Ladies and Gentlemen, the President of Fanatica..."

New travels faster in Fanatica than one might expect. And that is why on this particular day, the new President was able to do what no one thought possible --- silence the great people of Gorina on their finest hour.

During the speeches of former President Shaitan and the antics of Mayor Cyc, not one Gorinian noticed what was unfolding in the background. First one person stepped up to President Zoi, then 2-3 more. While these people seemed on the edge of frantic, the new President seemed to have a somewhat calming influence on them. It seemed that they had wanted him to leave, but Zoi gave resistance in that regard. However, he now heard the roar of people grow a bit louder and looked up to see Mayor Cyc waving him forward. This is definitely not what he had planned.

The roar subsided slightly when the people saw that the man they had helped elect was now taking the cue of favorite son Rik Meleet and tossing his own pre-written words to the floor. By the time Donovan Zoi reached the podium, there was complete silence. And then, after an eternal moment of seconds, the President spoke:

Good afternoon, great people of Gorina.....

"Yes, great!" yelled out someone from the center of the crowd, apparently freed from the engulfing tension by some of his city's finest spirits. Some nervous laughter ensued and the President continued.

Today your new President has put the lives of some of our civilians in danger. I am embarassed to report that we probably have no reinforcements in place to save them in time. Because of this, there is a possibility that I will face charges, for which I will gladly consider punishment.

And to think, I had many a good word to tell you about your honoree today, our Chief Justice, donsig. After all, it was this great man who gave me my start in politics such a long time ago. And now I find that I can really say no more, as I feel it would compromise the judicial process. That is not to say that the Great Rock of Fanatica would even consider throwing out our Constitution for a few kind words. It is more my personal decision to not even allow the mere hint of corruption to soil our great land.

Congratulations, donsig. In the coming days the great people of Gorina.....yes great, to the gentleman out there....

Finally, a small burst of laughter from the crowd, then silence.

...you all will find exactly why you are celebrating this man.

Thank you.

Donovan Zoi steps back from the podium to a mix of cheers and hisses, and this time heads quickly off the stage with the frantic folks and is quickly out of sight. Of course he was heading to Noshuret to see if there was any hope of a miracle in sight.

The people continued to be somewhat festive, but there was a new feeling in the air..........

Having been briefed by the President's aides, Mayor Cyc scans the reports and crude drawings indicating the extremely perilous situation facing the Fanatican civilians. Is it possible? Could it be? Cyc tries to glean as much information for the reports as possible. He confers with Rik Meleet, who's eyes are locked on his. The question is put forth - Is this one of the Settler groups from our own City of Gorina? Cyc returns the reports and takes a long drink of cool water. He then rejoins Rik Meleet and places a hand on his shoulder. Quietly he says to Rik, "Sound the Trumpets. I have an announcement to make." Minister Meleet disappears and Cyc takes another drink of water.

As the trumpets sound off across the courtyards with three quick notes and one long one, all eyes return to the entrance of the Judicial Building. Mayor Cyc solemly steps up to the podium.

He raises his hands into the air with fingers spread and scans the crowds. He then speaks. "People of Gorina. We have all heard the news of the Fanatican Settlers up North by the war-zone ... we know of their dangerous situation ...the hour is very late for these citizens who are seeking to expand our nation ...It has been brought to my attention that these Settlers may have originated here in Gorina." The crowd becomes deathly quiet. Mayor Cyc begins to speak in a softer tone of voice. "In light of this recent news, I now wish to change my purpose at this function, and dedicate this ceremony and this Judicial Building to those brave Settlers up in the North country." Cyc bows his head momentarily. "To the brave Settlers!" A rousing round of respectful applause erupts from the crowds. "I now bring this event to a close with the sounding of the huge bell installed in the Judicial Building Tower. Settlers, know this bell tolls for thee."

Mayor Cyc waves goodnight as the pre-arranged ringing of the new Bell, just put in this morning, begins.

ooc: hmmm. do we have COL yet as tech or why do we have a judical building :-)

@ dis - There have always been the wisemen of the Judicial Department. This building is to house there works. Just because no one has has produced a CoL on a cylyndrical peice of copper doesn't mean we shouldn't have a place for these wisemen to gather. But thank you for your concern.

Mayor Cyc, citizens of Gorina.

The settler who is currently facing capture did NOT originate from Gorina, but from Noshuret. I took a good look at the 570 BC save and the 430 BC save and the chat log. As you can see in the 570 BC save there existed only 1 settler. It is used to buils Lake Asphinxia. After that only Penguinadua and Noshuret build settlers. The Penguinadua settler was sent to the Iron west of Lake Asphinxia and is seen moving there through the desert. The Noshuret settler was sent east, near Regia Doughnutia and we fear for his life.

So my fellow Gorinians: NO GORINIAN FATHERS, MOTHERS, SONS AND DAUGHTERS ARE IN DANGER, but is this really important? We are 1 nation of Fanatica and have to support eachother. Let's send our sympathies to those in Noshuret who will loose or already have lost their family members. We can and must pray for 2 things. The first is that Cleo will not attack them, although knowing her, she will. The second is that they will not be slaughtered but captured and that we will release them soon.

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

P.S. I will not become mayor of Penguinadua. I will stay in Gorina and help mayor Cyc. This is a small set-back in my career, but a giant leap forward in Gorina's as I am still available to help build up Gorina.

Ave Mayor of Gorina

Peri and Hutz - Forensic Orators wish to open a branch office in this city. Our Head Office is in Penguiadua but it is felt that it is time to expand. The senior partner in this concern is the Judge Advocate who is also the Mayor of Penguinadua. Therefore this company is of the highest integrity. I hope that there is room in your forum for a small office.

Vale.

First of all, many thanks to Minister Meleet. Your extensive research into the origin of the Settler up North in the war zone is exemplary, as usual. I commend your efforts to calm the recent worries here in Gorina, as I'm sure the citizens do also. You are also right that we are of one nation, and that those Settlers are of us as a whole. We shall watch with great concern the outcome of this situation. Our brothers and sisters of Love in the Capital city will be well attended by the city of Gorina, whatever the end result.

Because of your outstanding work ethics and devotion to the City of Gorina, I feel I must make due compensation in regards to your position in the city government. I hereby promote you from Minister of Worker Relations to Chief Council of the Mayor. In admiration of your work, I would hope you will still oversee the detail of the open letters or reports to me on the current staus and projected goals of our illustrious city. Your perks will be greatly increased, such as you are now in control of your own account. You may occupy the office of your choosing (other than mine ;) ), obtain better housing, start your own stables (leave my horses alone :) ), and secure more guards.

Congratulations, Chief Council Rik Meleet, and thank you for a job well done. :goodjob:

Greeting's Peri of Peri and Hutz - Forensic Orators. We most certainly have room in our humble city for company of this stature. We would be honored to house the 1st branch office of Peri and Hutz. Exquisite timing, if I do say so myself.

The Mayor's Office was very impressed with the JA's judgement on the recent PI case. It was right to the heart of the issue, with ample evidence. We hope to see more of your saber-like pen slashing through the bureaucracy that can appear from nowhere at times.

As you can see from the post below, there are a couple of buildings available for your office. There is the building katy-corner to the Judicial Building to the SE or the one straight across from it on the other side of the main streets. The latter having a nice shade tree close by. Choose one of the two. As a side note, please be aware that the painting was done from a Northeasternly angle, so looking at the painting you will notice the Judicial Building is one of our most Western buildings of the city.

BTW, will your office be bringing any employees with it that will take up permenent residence here? We would love to increase our Citizens list with the names of any it will bring.

Again, welcome. And hat's off to Judge Advocate and Mayor of Penguinadua, Peri.

People of Gorina, here's the latest update of the bird's-eye view of our glorious city. Painted by a local artist from a setting in the Gorina Hills, it shows all of our new additions to the city. You can see the Granary, the Temple, the Judicial Building, and of course the Gorina Palace. Just so you know, we may be re-locating the Gorina Palace soon and renovating the current building into some other timely structure. A toast to the City of Gorina!

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/BE350bcA.jpg

Ave Mayor of Gorina,

Thank you for the welcome. Lucius Hortensius Hutzrubal, the father of my partner, Lucius Hortensius Hutzrubal Orator will be setting up the office. Snce he is a freedman he is not eligible to be included in the census. However accomodation will be required for him and his household. The second property you offered looks the most suitable for our office. Hutzrubal has my complete confidence and is experienced in law. I hope that your citizens will make use of his skill. However I will be available on the nones and ides of each month if any citizen wishes to speak to me in person. I look forward to a long and happy relationship with the people of Gorina. In addition as Judge Advocate I thank you for your appreciation of the decision taken in the case of SPQF and Donovan Zoi.

Vale

Aegyptus delendus est

Lord Mayor

I must apologise for this late letter of advice. I was investigating the origin of the settler and after that was on a mission to give comfort to the families of the troubled Settler in Noshuret.

Our temple is working magnificent, 75 % of our population is happy and 25 % is content. It seems the parade also worked well ! To a simple person this would indicate that when we reach size 7 we'd still have no unhappyness trouble. I am not a simple person.

I fear that the coming loss of the settler will hit hard on the nation's population. I don't want to call it War Weariness as we are not in a Reep - you - blique or a Day - moc - ray - si, but it could have some influence. Also I am not sure all our resources are save from pillaging. Also our roadnet to our eastern cities are under thread possibly blocking the flow of goods. I am sure size 6 is problemless, but then we have to give some entertainment or decrease the tax-pressure by the lux-slider.

Our build queue is currently: regular Legionary, regular Legionary. Why regular ? We might not be allowed to build barracks. Although, with good management creating 6 shields (one for corruption) we have 5 shields working for us and the barracks can be finished in 4 turns. If the Military Advisor and the President desire Legionairs The best set-up would be the same. Our laborers should work the Iron-tile, the 2 mined-grasslands and an unworked grassland tile. By using the roaded plains instead of the unworked grassland we'd stop growing.

I still don't understand why working a roaded plains instead of an unworked grassland stops our citizens from making love ... :love: :confused:

I've heard rumors that Gorina will be chosen for a Wonder. If that is to happen, start explaining our government that we then need to grow in size and improve our tiles !!! Ask for some workers to do that. Our civilization will be the laughing stock of the world if we try to do wonders in this underdeveloped state of existence. Let Gorina be a Wonder of the World by itself.

Rik Meleet
Minister of Worker Relations of the great city of Gorina

Mayor Cyc has ordered two wagons of the finest flowers to be transplanted from the Gardens of Gorina to the hillside west of the road, overlooking the Lake outside Noshuret. The placement of these flowers is to symbolize the sympathy and regret for the lose of the Settler group to the Egyptians.

Word had gotten out that this order had been given and spread quickly through Gorina. To show the union of the city, the backing of the Mayor, and the feelings of their own hearts a large gathering of Gorinians met at the river north of the city, to follow the wagons. After a brief prayer, the long procession began.

To: Chief Council Rik Meleet,

Thank you for your report. Don't worry about its timeliness, the are troubled days. I appreciate your work. In regards to your advice, I believe we should build a Barracks in Gorina immediately. This should be followed by some Legionaries. Although I would like to see a Library built in Gorina as quickly as possible, we should supply the frontlines with some reinforcements. Also, one of those Legions should be kept in Gorina when our pop size nears 7. This extra military unit should work wonders as far as securing the city and keeping any war weariness at bay. I agree that 75% happiness is a good number. Rikki, don't lose that number :).

We have regained our Worker, who is now on the roaded plains tile irrigating. I would like to see him mining the grassland tiles after that.

And finally, in regards to your question about the love-making traits of Gorinians, I am reminded of a song by a group of musicians that play here at the palace called the Beatles. Their song goes something like "Why don't we do it in the road?" :lol:

Thanks again...

Lord Mayor, citizens

Please don't call me Rikki.

I looked around a bit to the list of Great Wonders. Our competitors are Texcoco, size 1, Philadelphia, size 1 and Sparta, size 2. These are no thread; they have just started building and are small. Compared to Gorina, size 5 in 2 turns, they are nothing. Especially when we mine our grasslands and allow growth to forfill our destiny as a production powerhouse.

But: several cities have been building the Pyramids for a long time and might be complete soon. Heliopolis, size 4, Athens, size 6, Washington, size 5 and Tlaxcala, size 5.
Athens was already building it in 1250 BC.
I noticed something strange in the Aztec Empire; in 1025 BC Tenochtitlan was building the Pyramids and Tlaxcala the Oracle and now Tlaxcala is building the Pyramids and Tenochtitlan no wonders :confused: so the AI switched locations ...
The cities of Heliopolis and Washington were on The Oracle, but when the Babylonians completed it in 670 BC they switched to Pyramids. Heliopolis was already building in 1025 BC and Washington in 900 BC.

So I fear the Pyramids will be finished soon. All 3 civs are Philosophy and Mapmaking up on us, but not Polytheism or construction, so there is just 1 alternative Wonder we can't build which they can; Great Lighthouse. Although both Washington and Tlaxcala are coastel; Athens is not and Heliopolis is not. Washington and Tlaxcala will go for Great Lighthouse, Athens will loose it's shields or remove Sparta from Great Library and work on it itself, but: Heliopolis will cascade to Great Library!, unless that city will finish the Pyramids first!

In all: We will NOT get the Great Library unless we get a Leader fast and have enough time to get him to Gorina.

Therefore I suggest you point out to provincial Governor Eyrie to stop building the Great Library and switch to barracks (I'm not in favor of a library yet; it's war) to create Veteran Legionairs or upgrade warriors so we will fend of Egypt, gain their lands and have a shot at a Leader who will help us further.

My second point is that we need workers to improve our growing Metropolis tiles. A vote was cast and Gorina will be a Metropolis, so act on it.

My proposed build queue:
Barracks, Spearman (upgrade the warrior then to Legionary), library (if the war is over or going very well)

OR

Barracks, Spearman (upgrade the warrior then to Legionary), Legionary.

[edit]I just realised why there is more love on the grasslands then on the plains. Gorinians also like privacy in these matters and long high grass lowers visibility better than the vegetation on plains. ;) [end edit]

Rik Meleet
Deputy Mayor of the Great city of Gorina (thanks for the promotion)

Ack, I say, ack!

Vacation has kept me away, to which I apologize. I seemed to have missed all the fun. :( However, i am glad to see the courthouse here. As head pf research and development, I'd like to see a library sometime, but I can understand if it takes a little while for that o happen. I'll post back when I actually have more to say...

[plasma] :egypt: :rocket2:

My dear Sir Isaac.

I'm glad you've returned from your well-earned vacation. I hope you had a great time. Where has your holiday lead to ?

I do fear though that you've suffered sunstroke or maybe an apple dropped on your head too hard; Gorina has no courthouse !

The nice new building you see in our town is the Judicial Building, a sort of natrional courthouse in which Chief Justice Donsig is taking care of our Nation's judicial needs. During your absence there was talk that our beloved President, Donovan Zoi had to come here to explain the misuse of a settler-team, but his was reverted for now.

I fully understand your mistake. Although justice is performed here it's a judicial building for the nation. Local Gorinian justice cannot be taken place here; for that we need an own local courthouse. Crime is so low here and happiness so high (and rightly so) that we haven't had the need to start a courthouse here yet. There is no need for it now.

I realise you are eager to perform as a scientist and thus desire a library to look up theories and create your own, but I fear that is not the biggest need for our nation. Lord Mayor Cyc is desiring a library soon as Gorina is appointed to be a Metropolis; a powerhouse in culture, sciense and production, but the war has moved this to the future. I am afraid you have to do your work at home. I will assist you as much as possible so you can get our nation to learn Polytheism and after that maybe Monarchy. If you have any needs for this, please come to my office and I will see what I can do to help you.

Regards,

Rik Meleet
Deputy Mayor of the great city of Gorina,
former Minister of worker relations of the great city of Gorina.

My dear Lord Mayor.

I want to thank you officially for my promotion to Deputy Mayor. I used to have the title of Minister of worker relations of the great city of Gorina.

Although my new title brings new responsibilities I do want to express to all Gorinians that I will still be performing the tasks as the minister for everyone who needs it. My office door will still be opened to all who wants to speak to me on this.

Rik

Welcome back from your vacation Sir Isaac_Newton. I trust it was a pleasant one. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and rejoin the workforce, you might consider expanding your responsibilities to that of Minister of Worker Relations. Although Rik Meleet is still overseeing that position, I fear our meager City Employee titles will not be enough for our own eminent Rik Meleet. His outstanding work history here in Gorina has come under the National spotlight, and may elevate him to a more suitable status. I of course would welcome you whole-heartedly into the upper offices of Gorina, just as I encourage Rik Meleet to seek out new frontiers in his political career.

The procession carried on through the night and stopped to rest about 2/3 of the way there. The horses were fed and watered. Small campfires were started by most of the travelers, inhopes of getting a quick meal. Some slept after eating, some gathered to tell stories. With the area free of barbarians, most felt safe on the road. With Gladiatus in charge of the mission, an extra added sense of security was provided.

Soon the horses were hitched up and everyone prepared to journey on. Torches were lit the way until the Morning Sun light the cloudless sky enough to see.

Finally, they arrived at the designated spot, and the Head Gardeners plotted out the design of the project. It had been decided to plant the colorful flowers in the shape of the Alpha and Omega symbols of olde, to signify the first and the last. The expanse of the project was such that it could be seen from the city of Noshuret, the colors vivd and alluring. As the lower level of flowers was removed from one of the wagons, a huge marble column was revealed. The gardeners supervised the removal of the column, which took the strength of most of the men in the procession. It was brought to rest, set in a small trench that was dug for it. As it rolled into place, the one facet of the column that had been flattened the length of of it, came to face outwards. Across the surface of this flat expanse were the deeply carved words of TEMEL NOSCE.

**********http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/aomega.gif**********
*******http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/AO_Column.gif*******

With everything in place and all the areas cleaned up, Gladiatus began to strike his sword against his shield, calling the Gorinians together. Assembled before the project silently presented to the people of Noshuret, the Gorinians knelt in prayer. At this time Gladiatus brought forth and introduced Lucius Hortensius Hutzrubal. Explaining that Hutzrubal was a man of words, the dedication of the project was to be given by him. A long time Fanatican, originally from Penguinadua, Hutzrubal lifted the spirits of the crowd with his silvery words. He made it clear that this presentation, filled with life and color, was more than a gift to the people of Noshuret. It was a bonding of souls and spirits, as well as a symbol of strength as we move forward in time as a Nation.

Gratefully accepted by the crowd, a loud uproar and applause errupted that may have been heard in Noshuret. The Ceremony over, the entire group headed for the Lake to celebrate their accomplishment. Another great day for Gorina.

People of Gorina! I come to you now with a matter of utmost importance. After reviewing the 230bc save, it has come to my attention that one of our laborers is not working the tile that they were assigned. As I say, only one laborer is involved in this mishap, but it is a very important laborer. The Iron tile has ceased production in favor of an unimproved grassland tile. This will not do!

In response to the situation stated above, I have posted in the Governor's and the President's thread. This situation is in direct contradiction to the posted t/c Instructions left by Governor eyrei for the t/c. I have asked that the situation be rectified immediately.

I ask the citizens of Gorina to gather in support of this issue, so that we may get the Iron hill tile back back into production for our great (yes, great) city.

Long live Gorina!

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gorina230bc.jpg

Lord Mayor,

I will find the laborer who left his post and I will personally find new ways to motivate him ! (Yes I've just watch the original Star Wars-trilogy, thus my lingo). It must be the one stealing some of our shields and commerce we are loosing to corruption.

I call upon our laborers just this once: Don't play this game with me ! You son't want to see me angry. http://www.gamers-forums.com/smilies/ups/unknown/lsvader.gif

And here's the latest update to the Bird's Eye view of Gorina. That's a fine barracks we have now, isn't it.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/BE230bc.jpg

In memory of our lost Settlers, I must bring to the forefront my position on the War with Egypt. This is not a matter I take lightly, as living, breathing components of the Fanatican society were taken from us, without a second thought.

We did not ask for this war. It was declared upon us by the crazed leader Cleo, of the Egyptians. What did she declare war for, a map and some gold? Maybe for some real estate? This is highly unacceptable to me.

As Mayor of Gorina, I feel we must press on and take from Cleo her most productive cities. I believe we should denounce what she calls Egyptian Culture as rubbish, and put her in her place. As one of this first to speak out against this plan of peace, I call on you now to join with me in support of the war. May our swords be swift and unmerciful.

Cyc
Mayor of Gorina

As of today, i have finished my first Term of Office of the Governor of gorina. The past 31 days have been a glorious experience for me, as I have watched our city grow from a meager litle town to a bustling city. We have helped populate the countryside with our young and adventurous Settlers. We have helped Fanatica grow Culturally and Spiritually. We have lead the way in Architecture and Science, and on our way to becoming the Metropolis of Fanatica, we have not neglected our duty to contribute to the war effort in the north.

People of Gorina, our Magnificent city shall continue to lead Fanatica into the future. With its splendid citizens united and in sync with every step, we shall march into the glory days of Gorina.

I wish to thank all of you for your continued support and contributions to our great city. Great? you say...yes, great. :) Rik Meleet, who now appears to be destined for a Governor's chair in the new Province of the West. Our Honorable Chief Justice donsig, who has founded the Justice Building here. Sir Isaac_Newton, our very own Head of R and D. Along with Gladiatus and Sir Hutzrubal.

I, myself, will now take a more relaxed role in our city government. Although we have forged a new path to our Destiny, I do hope you will allow my some time to rest. I will still remain your Mayor and will still post on important issues, but not at the blistering speed we've just witnessed in my first Term.

Join me now, in a toast to Gorina, in all its glory -

To the best city in the World!


Official Count: 100 Replies - 900 Views ;)

Long live Gorina.

No matter what function I'll be given; Gorina will remain my hometown.

Rik Meleet

And you shall always be welcome here, Rik Meleet. In fact, I will now dedicate this latest painting of gorina, showing our new Library to you, and it will hang here in the Gorina Palace. BTW, I thought placing the Library across from Peri and Hutz was an appropriate move. What do you think :) ?



http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/BE230bca.jpg

Placing the library opposite the Chief-Justice building creates a balancing yin-yang force. I like it, I like it a lot.

The 1 small disturbence in the force is the lone house just in front of the library. I propose that it has to be removed (of course we will first build for the owner a twice as big house on the outskirts on a location he prefers) in order to create a park / square between the CJ building and the library.

Gladiatus can use this square for training, demonstrations and parades until we build a collosseum (or loccosseum). I propose the name "Cyc-square" or "Newton's lawn" or "Gladiatus park".

Does anyone have other suggestions ?

Rik Meleet
Deputy Mayor of Gorina,
EX - Minister of worker relations of the great city of Gorina
Running for Governor of the Western Province

Actually, Rik Meleet, the long building you speak of is the time honored law offices of Peri and Hutz. This site for their business was personally offered to them by yours truly (in fact I own it and rent it to them). The area within the general vacinity is earmarked for future urban development, but I would no object to its use as a local park until such time when a required building must be erected. I love to see parks initiated in Gorina. In fact, one day this city will be so large, the people will be crying out for more parks. But the offices of Peri and Hutz will remain, at least for a while.

My dear Gorinians.

I am leaving. I am elected Governor of the Western province and have to move there to forfill my tasks. With a crying heart I leave you behind. This is not for good; I will keep my residence and will spend many free time here.

This goodbye is not for ever. I will return and I expect to see a Gorina that has developed itself into a Metropolis. Keep up the good work and always remember: "Rome sweet Rome".

Long live Fanatika ! Long live Gorina !

Rik Meleet
Once your devoted deputy mayor and minister of worker relations of the great city of Gorina.
Currently Governor of the Western province.
My new job (http://forums.civfanatics.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=56312)

Here's the latest update to the Gorina stats: circa 170ad.
Commentary below.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/Gorina170ad.jpg

There are a couple of things I'd like to talk about -
1. Now that we are are Peace with the Egyptians, do we really need to be producing Legionaries? Our smaller towns can be producing Settlers and escorts for them. Gorina needs to grow into the Metropolis it is destined to be. We have already produced an abundance of Settlers and Military units for Fanatica. It's time to look towards the future and realize Gorina's place in society. As Mayor, I strongly recomend that our production be changed to a Colosseum. This will allow the city to grow, unhindered by happiness problems. A new Great Wonder should be in our future plans and a Colosseum is called for.

2. I would like to request a Worker from the group of three SW of Gorina to come and irrigated the Grasslands South of town. With the Colosseum built, we will be able to expand and bring in new minerals from the Hills of Gorina, but without some irrigation, this will be a very slow process. The Worker can be there in 1 turn and should be able to complete the irrigation before our next growth cycle.

3. As a special note, I'd like to announce that Gorina will be expanding Culturally in 4 turns. :cool: :D [dance] :thumbsup: :jump: :beer:

... for Noshuret. Gorina is still my city of residence but for now I must travel to the capital to assume my new duties. Please let me know of any celebrations that are forthcoming in Gorina for I will return for the festivities.

Good luck in getting your coloseum built Mayor Cyc. Perhaps we should call it the Locosseum Colosseum?

*...The Mayor looks up from the work on his desk...*

Oh, no....first Rik meleet and now donsig! Talk about upward mobility. ;) I'm sorry if I've been too busy with my schedule to keep tabs on my two friends, who are also the best citizens in Gorina. I get so caught up in my work. I'm sure we'll all run into one another in Noshret occasionally.

And donsig, anytime you or Rik Meleet come back into town is a reason to celebrate. By the Mayor's decree, a feast will be held at the Palace for every visit.

And I'm just "crazy" about the name Locosseum. :D Although we have already considered calling the new Colosseum "The Gladiatus Colosseum", so your suggestion has some stiff competition.

Safe travels and two torches shall burn day and night until the both of you return.

Cyc

People of Gorina, Good News!

We have been approved for and have begun work on our New Colosseum! What a glorius day. Even in the Anarchy caused by the turmoil of changing Governments, our citizens are content and safe. We lead the nation in Farm Products, Shield Production, Commerce, and Population. Our Culture rating is now tied with the Capital city of Noshuret! We are truly on our way to becoming the Metropolis we've planned for.

When we come out of Anarchy next turn, Fanatica will become a Monarchy, and donsig shall be our King. We now have the strongest Military in the known world and are currently on our way to knock the snot out of Monty and his gang of thugs. Doing so will help us as a nation climb to the top of the World Ranking ladder. Egypt, our new ally, is about to take a nose-dive in the rankings. This means if we can hurt the Aztecs enough, they may fall from their second place standing, possibly to fourth place. This would leave only Russia between us and Babylon.

Culturally, we are doing a 180 degree turn. We now have 11 Temples being built, 1 Colosseum (ours :D ), and 1 Library under construction.

We are exporting Horses, which is a good thing, and we are still technologically advanced, as no other known Nation has Currency yet. All in all I'd say we were doing pretty good on the National scene.

But wait, there's more...After we complete our Colosseum, we will be ready to build the Great Wonder Sistene Chapel. Cathedrals will go up all over Fanatica in celebration of our new found Cultural beliefs.

We are truly on our way, people. Rejoice! :thumbsup:

People of Gorina, excellent news! We have completed our Colosseum! Please see the bird's eye view of the city I have supplied and check out our glorious new addition to Gorina.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/BEGorina430ad1a.jpg

The opening ceremony will be held soon, so stay tuned. We wish to thank President donsig and Governor Gingerbread Man for allowing us to have this Colosseum. We hope to see both of them at the ceremony. What a glorious day! Our Culture will thrive.

BTW, the Gorina Palace has been torn down for the building of the Colosseum (remember, I told you it would be relocated ;) ). The construction of the new Palace will begin shortly.

I will most assuredly attend the opening ceremony for Gorina's colosseum. It will be great to see you again Mayor Cyc, and Gladiatus as well. I do hope Rik Meleet can make it as well. It will be a pleasure to be around old friends again. :)

Thank you,
donsig

I will be there.

Quoting donsig:
It will be a pleasure to be around old friends again.
_________________________________________

Who you calling old, donsig? :lol: I'm glad to see all of us young at heart will be able to attend the ceremony, which will be held tomorrow about this time. Wine and bread will again be on the house, all are welcome.

Originally posted by donsig
I will most assuredly attend the opening ceremony for Gorina's colosseum. It will be great to see you again Mayor Cyc, and Gladiatus as well. I do hope Rik Meleet can make it as well. It will be a pleasure to be around old friends again. :)

Thank you,
donsig

Umm, what about me, the Military Leader of Gorina. I do want to attend the opening ceremony for the colosseum :).

Please do, CivGeneral. It would be an honor to have you in attendance. Bring your family, if you'd like. All are welcome. I can probably get you a seat close to Rik Meleet and donsig.

And remember, bringing trumpets of all sizes is encouraged!

Hopefully I can have the Vice Presidential Seat next to Donsig :). I will also be bringing alomg my Wife Mara Jade :D.

Due to the torrential rains we had today (which should clear up tonight), the naming ceremony was postponed until tomorrow. One good thing to come from today's weather event was that the Colosseum got a good washing and all the dust in the area has been padded down. So this should make tomorrow's ceremony that much better. Hope to see you all there.

The weather forecasters had been right. The rains stopped in the evening and things started to dry out in the quiet and peaceful night. When I awoke to the first rays of the sun in the cloudless skies, I knew it was going to be a good day.

As I strode down the avenue, I could see the Colosseum set against the deep blue sky. The huge whitish structure, with brilliant red flags hanging from each of the four majestic levels, was a monument, in deed, to the Scientists, Engineers and Carpenters of the day. As I came close, I notice a broad pavement of Travertine surrounding the structure. This drew you naturally to the huge arches that supported the exterior wall. Large blocks of stone, bonded with metal rose out of the pavement to the second story. Huge columns and stautes proudly stood in each of the arches.

The amphitheater was alreay being filled with on-lookers, workers, and city officials. The smell of food filled the air, as vendors of Gorina never let an opportunity for commerce slip their grasp. Small carts were pushed through the large hallways offering a variety of foods to the passers-by. The city had hired workers to help direct the flow of people that would soon be of staggering propotions, both inside and outside the building. These workers were all dressed in black and were acting as mimes, in the fashion of the pantomimes, the popular topic of today's theater. As you moved through the steps and halls to reach the cavea, or sitting place, one could hear the frequent "Oohhs and Aahhs" and "Praise the Gods, look at that". The beautiful day outside had completely slipped my mind when inside, but as I stepped out into the sunlight and saw the grandeur of the Colosseum, it had an over-whelming effect. I spent the morning walking the four stories of the Colosseum, from the seats over-looking the sand covered floor of the arena to small windows of the fourth floor walls that had large shields mounted in them.

The day was getting better with each step.

After basking in the sun at the edge of the fourth floor tier, I decided to move under the awnings that projected out from the exterior wall. Made of wood, the awnings main purpose was to shade the spectators from the sun. Draped with more red flags, it served its purpose well. From there I could see the Executive Box. Even from up high, you could feel the lush decor and trappings of the privileged. I decided to take a closer look.

Finding the entrance was more difficult than I thought. There must be an underground passage to the office-sized box. The guards were plentiful, although I didn't have much trouble working my way through them. I got as close as I could and began to feel the tension in the air. These were some mighty important hallways. I decided to go back up top.

Just in time too. Once back outside in the grandstands I saw that they had erected a large podium in the executive box and the arena had Cavalry Archers parading around trying to act dignified as they rode through the clowns jumping and tumbling across the sand. Things were about to begin.

The trumpets sounded a long volley of musical riffs. The air was filled with sound. The Colosseum had pretty much filled with people after the noon time meal and most were now taking seats. When they weren't watching the entertainment in the arena, they kept one eye on the Executive Box.

Finally...Isaac Newton strides to the podium in his hat. We had not seen or heard from him in quite awhile. The trumpets were silenced. The acoustics in the amphitheater were outstanding.

Sir Isaac Newton began to speak "Ladies and Gentlemen, it is an honor to introduce to you, the first speaker here in this glorious stadium. He has brought us many delights, this one maybe the grandest of all, please join me in welcoming...the Mayor of Gorina... Cyc!" The applaused was the normal acknowledgement for the Mayor, as it died down, he raised his hands and smiled.

"People of Gorina. Another glorious day in our beloved city is upon us! We are gathered here to officially open our new Colosseum and welcome in a new era of entertainment. Never before have we witnessed the miraculous efforts by our builders in bringing us a state-of-the-art construction. Let us rejoice in this new house of Unity as we forge into the future." Again the usual applause.

"My staff tells me that after looking over the latest stats that Gorina is doing quite well in the big picture. In the Domestic Department, Gorina is in first place in every category except - food stored. This is a great achievement for us, as we are now the undisputed leading city in Fanatica!" More applause. "And we are still tied with the Capital City of Noshuret in Culture Rating. Hopefully, this new addition to Gorina's Culture we help us advance in that area as well.

"Today is a special day, as the naming of this Colosseum will be done by our one and only Gladiatus" A BIG round of applause... "He will also be doing the opening show for us today. We'll also have special guests with us here today and maybe we can get them to say a few words. I would like to introduce to you now, a hero of sorts, a true Leader of men, and one of our own... I bring you, ...Gladiatus!" Feet are stomping and applause is deafening. You can barely hear the trumpets sounds. I find myself standing and giving loud HOOTS almost involuntarily.

Cyc steps back from the huge podium and begins clapping as Gladiatus quickly walks up and shakes hands with the Mayor. The crowd is still cheering as he finishes his climb to the speaker's position. With a huge smile on his face, Gladiatus raises both fists far above his head and yells "Strength and Honor!" The stands go wild! Wearing his sword at his side and his shield strapped across his back, Gladiatus is the picture perfect warrior, but in recognition of the applause, he bows humbly. Having the powerful crowd control that he does, with a few gestures he quiets the auditorium.

"People of Gorina...and guests from other cities...Welcome to our new Colosseum!" The applause again goes up, but Gladiatus raises his hands.

"Behind me are the great men of Fanatica. Men who have brought you honor and glory in their courage and statesmanship. I thank them for allowing me the extreme privilege of naming this Colosseum." He again bows slightly, this time towards the Leaders.

"In honor of men like Cyc, donsig, Rik Meleet, CivGeneral and the others, I have put a lot of thought into naming this grand structure. I have rejected many of my personal desires in choosing a name and have come to the conclusion there can only be one name. In admiration and respect for the men behind me and for all of you out there, I hereby name this Colosseum.... The Fanatica Amphitheater!" A thunderous applause erupts.

As Gladiatus bows again, he backs away from the podium in a gracious manner, smiling and waving at the crowd. It is many minutes before anyone even approaches the podium, as the trumpets begin to play again in concert with the applause. The celebration has begun.

The feastivities continued on into the early evening. Speaches were given by the prominent members of the Executive box, light entertainment in the form of the clowns and Calvary Archers filled the quiet times, even the troupe of city workers dressed as mimes were brought out and thanked by the Mayor. They then proceeded to throw loaves of bread into the stands.

As the Celebration started to die down, the Government officials and guests drifted over to the newly completed Palace. As you can see from the painting below, its placement on the outskirts of town, close to the Military Barracks allowed for future city growth. With the Military close and the beauty of the Gorina Hills behind it, the Mayor was pleased with the Construction.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/BEGorina610ad.jpg

The party raged on, the wine flowed and many more speaches were given informally. Mayor Cyc was able to mingle with friends he had not seen in quite a while. President donsig was in an extremely jovial mood. With the shift in public mood, he now had firmer footing in the Presidency. His administration had brought the nation to higher standings in the world theater and Fanatica now enjoyed the status of second in the ratings and the strongest Army in the world.

Rik Meleet, who was winding up his first Term as Governor of Esquiline, was a welcome site for the Mayor. Pride and warmth went into the toasts the two had made in the success of the Nation. The conversation drifted to the accomplishments of Gladiatus and his continued success in Gorina.

Cyc raised his goblet to Rik Meleet again, "To Gladiatus, the star of the day, namer of our new Colosseum." Goblets touched, as more of Gorina's sweet wine was tasted in memory of the day's proceedings. "Oh, I say, watching Gladiatus' exhibit today was breath-taking. When they actually let loose that lion in the arena, you could here a pin drop. Tell me Governor Rik Meleet, what were your impressions of today's events?"

EDIT: Post # 4000

Ahh, yes. CivGeneral and his Wife certanly had a good time at the festivities :D. Oh and Cyc. Is it alright to have The Jade House be built in your city?

Cyc turns to greet the Vice President with a slight bow and a hand shake. He then kisses the hand of Mara Jade.

"Good evening and welcome to the Gorina Palace, Mr. Vice President and Mara Jade. What an honor it is to have you both here. Of course it is alright to have the Jade House built in the City of Gorina. I could not think of a greater honor to bestow on our humble city. My engineers and workers are at your disposal.

"I'm very glad you and Mara have enjoyed today's events. Please feel free to attend any of the cities celebrations, as you have a standing invitation to the Palace of Gorina. Please, eat and drink to your heart's content.

Rik Meleet returned the raising of the goblet to Cyc. He was also happy to be back in his hometown. The pressure of the tasks of Governor were clearly showing on his face. But his eyes still sparkled in a youthful joy. His nose betrayed him of his enjoyment of Gorinian Vino. "I should take a case with me to Esquiline" he thought.

He looked around the Colosseum and was gladly surprised how astonishing it turned out. In his mind and his talks with Gladiatus they had often discussed how it had to look, but seeing it in real life still overpowered everyone; it's splendour was breath-taking. Still the name loccosseum sounded better. Oh well...

Rik Meleet chose his words carefully.

"Mayor Cyc, I can only compliment you on the building of a great colosseum; the most beautiful building currently in our nation. Only a Great Wonder other civilizations talk about could shadow it.

I can see the hand of Gladiatus in the design of the artwork on the roof of the colosseum. Those statues of fighters circeling the arena, looking down at the pitch and appearing as strong representatives of our nations glorious Legions and depicting the grandness of Fanatica's sons are true works of art. Wouldn't it be nice to have mock-fights between fighters dressed up like these statues instead of always fighting Lions? We could call them Gladiators in Gladiatus' honour !

I knew Gladiatus was a very skilled fighter. He has shown his skills numerous times in display-battles, the training of our troops and the opening of the Judicial Building. He has demonstrated his social and architectural skills so often. He always has time for a chat with an old friend and is always friendly and generous; he is a remarkable man; we all know that.

But I never expected that any human being could barehanded take on a Lion and throw the Lion around the arena ! Gladiatus not only did this, but he was so skilled in it that the Lion never got an other chance than to be a toy in the hands of Gladiatus. Especially the end when the Lion begged for mercy by raising it paws when lying on his back legs and front elbows was a nice touch. Everyone in the arena gave a 'thumbs up' to applaud Gladiatus. I'm glad Gladiatus showed mercy to the Lion and spared it's life, taking it as a pet and guard-lion for his house. Perhaps we can memorise this Thumbs-up gesture in fights to come, for instance between humans.

What about using prisoners of war to fight in the colosseum; I know some Persians and Babylonians going wild in Esquiline Province I'd love to see performing in the circus?

I cincerely thank you Mayor Cyc for the invitation for this grand-opening. I know the memory of it will be produce a smile on my face and happyness in my heart when things aren't going well. I only regret I didn't have those memories yet when both the Persians and the Babylonians landed in Esquiline and nearly managed to claim our God-given lands. I thank you for this memory! "

Rik Meleet glanced at Cyc and saw him trying to hide his feelings when Rik praised him. That man never was good in taking compliments.

As matters with the Babylonians still weren't finished Rik politely said goodbye to Cyc, Civgeneral and Donsig. Gave Mara Jade a kiss and after some light chatting Rik went back to Esquiline. It was a long journey to get there and there still was danger in the Province. Business is usually more important than pleasure, but this opening was too important for the morale of the nation and the personal morale of Rik himself.

Rik managed to slip out of the Colosseum silently, a case of Gorinian vino given to him by Cyc under his arm. His Chariot was waiting round the corner. He didn't want to be noticed by the citizens as the talking would delay him for far too long. He did make 1 promiss to himself though; "When Esquiline is safe I'll return and mix in with the citizens; they have done a wonderful job and they deserve what they desire and if they desire to celebrate with me, who am I to deny them that ?"

People of Gorina! I am very proud to announce that within a few days we will be celebrating the opening of the Sistine Chapel. This papal chapel located in the Vatican Section of Gorina will be a momunment not only to our great city, but to the Cultural depths of our Nation.

Gladiatus has brought in his associate, Michelangelo to paint the vaulted ceilings with glorious scenes from the Bible, a new book of religious importance. Work will be completed soon and the doors should be open this Sunday. :goodjob: How's that for timing?

We are planning the construction of a new Cathedral here in Gorina after the completion of the Sistine Chapel. We hope all this spiritual guidance will help bring happiness to our citizens, and those throughout Fanatica.

Rejoice people. Gorina is the home of Fanatica's first Great Wonder. May many more follow.

Congratulations to the glourious people of the city of Gorina! Your efforts have gone toward the construction of the greatest monument in all of Fanatica!

People of Gorina, I am very proud to have the honor of opening the doors of Fanatica's first Great Wonder to the public today. Citizens, I give you...The Sistine Chapel.

In the bird's-eye view posted below, you can see how this monumental tribute to the people of our city, and nation as well :D will grace the architecture of our great city.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads4/BEGorina920ad.jpg

And more good news! A Cathedral was approved as our next construction project. Thanks to all.

People of Gorina - We hope you've enjoyed the tours of the Sistene Chapel this week, we also are pleased to see such a fine turnout at our new Cathedral. :D

Currently we're building a Marketplace which should be done in two turns. The completion of the Marketplace should make quite a few of you happy as we now have 6 Luxuries available in Gorina. Isn't this a great city? After the completion of the Marketplace, we hope to see the start of our new University. As Noshuret has not proclaimed the title yet, we would like to. Upon the completion of our University, we will hereby name it Fanatica University (FU).

Onward and upward people! What a glorious day in Gorina...

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/Gorina1020ad.jpg

Now that my Term as Science Leader has ended, I feel a little weight lifted from my shoulders and now see the great city of Gorina as my only responsibility. Although I feel I have succeeded on many levels in my position as Mayor of Gorina, none of these "job requirements" can match the fulfillment of serving the people of this great city.

This post is to announce my retirement from the Demogame. I do this with a heavy heart, as I feel as if I'm leaving family here. In the past 17 months, I have experienced my best times here at the CFC Civ3 DG Forums. I have felt akin to many who post in these forums. Comrades, brothers-in-arms, fellow citizens. You people who only appear to me as pixels on my screen are as much a part of my life as anything else, and that's why this saddens me.

But I must break away, I must end this addiction. It feels too good to live in the DG virtual world. I need to step outside and get a life.

Hopefully, my friends will look after Gorina for me. I'm sure with a little care, it will earn a Camelot Award. It is by far the best city in the world. Khatovar now ranks as number 2, and that's saying a lot (well, different world, actually :) )

So, with the end of Term 3, I leave you in good hands. Soon you shall be a true Democracy and will be the Super Power that wins the game. I applaud all of you for your work and wish you the best of luck. In leaving, I would like to present you with a song lyric (of course! you expected something else?:lol: ). These words were written by a gentleman who lives in Eklektikos neck of the woods. I found them after I started writng in these forums, and always told myself I would present them to the DG upon my retirement. Cya,

Cyc

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Whatever’s Written In Your Heart


Yeah, night and day, night and day...

Wakin’ up here on a rainy day,
I swore last time that I would stay away.
I came down here to talk to you,
I said this time I might get through.

I heard her speak but all the words were dead,
We talked all night and left it all unsaid.
So we agree to disagree,
At least we’ve got our memory.

Whatever’s written in your heart, that’s all that matters,
You’ll find a way to say it all someday, yeah.
Whatever’s written in your heart, that’s all that matters,
Yeah, night and day, night and day.

You’ve got your secrets, yeah, and I’ve got mine,
We’ve played this game now for a long, long time.
You don’t lean on anyone,
You never had no place to run.

You never wanted me to get too close,
We love and hate the ones we need the most.
I tried to find a way to you,
One thing I could say to you.

Maybe I’ve always set my sights too high,
You take the easy way and still get by.
I know there ain’t no special way,
We all get there anyway.

I heard her speak but all the words were dead,
We talked all night and left it all unsaid.
So we agree to disagree,
At least we’ve got our memory.

Whatever’s written in your heart, that’s all that matters,
You’ll find a way to say it all someday, yeah.

(Rafferty)

Say it ain't so, Cyc.... :(

You are travelling down a path that I have unsuccessfully wandered quite a few times, and are handling it with far more grace. For me, the road always seems to lead me right back again(even now, I am beginning to feel the itch). Hopefully, you can do what's best for yourself and take in that new world out there. It sure did wonders for me.

Tell you what, Mr. Mayor. When I helped to found the harbor town of Ingolemondor back in Term 2, I set myself up in a tidy little bungalow right off the bay. Once out of office, I purchased a small galley and spent a good part of Term 3 making her seaworthy. I spent the rest of the term enjoying the freedom of the sea.

I now extend an offer for you to do the same. You will find my home north of town just before the land rises into the hills. When you get to the northernmost bungalow, keep going. My place is a mile or so beyond that. You will know you have arrived when you find Home and Dry anchored just off the coast.

Please, accept my invitation and take as much time as you need. The tranquility of this remote location will do wonders for the soul. And if you are interested in getting out and seeing the world(as it seems you are), I can introduce you to my shipmates so they can assist you while you grow into your sea legs. They are always ready when I need to get away, and they will do the same for you at my request.

While you are away, I shall make Gorina my home. I would like to make myself one of the vigilant watchers over this great city, as it will take as many Gorinians as possible to successfully do so in your absence. I do this with no ambitions to be your successor, only to do whatever I can to preserve the legacy of an old friend.

So, will you accept my generous offer? ;) I will not take "no" for an answer, as this is the only way I can repay you for your hospitality toward me over the last year.

Best of luck in all of you endeavors, Cyc. And please come back and visit if you feel you can do so without getting hooked all over again. RL has its advantages when you make the time for it. I found that out again only recently. ;)

Standing on a hill with a mountain of dreams
Telling myself it's not as hard, hard, hard as it seems

Take care and keep in touch......

All my respect,

DZ

SaaM walks by the land being laid out for FU
Ahh... Gorina.. Good times... good times. But sad times now. Cyc is leaving as Mayor. Who will pilot the Urbus Eternae? Who will serve as a fountain of knowledge? Who will be iritable annoying and likeable at the same time?

So Long, Cyc.

Have fun in the Real World. Just know that Fanatica, Fanatika and Phonetica are always there for you. Just have to go to C:\Program Files\Infogrames Interactive\Civilization III\Saves... They, and the memories created, people met and friends made will be there.

God Speed

SaaM

I am truly sorry to hear this, Cyc. I hope your path will lead back here again someday.

Just great... I fall off the wagon for a term and straight away you go steal my seat on the damn thing :lol:

On a more serious note, I'll be sorry to see you leave even if I can well understand and sympathise with the reasons you give for doing so. Your involvement in any aspect of the game has always been a pleasure to observe and your dedication and attention to detail an example of the way the game should be played.

Good luck in the real world, Cyc. Ave atque vale.

I would like to thank you all for your kind words. It has been my pleasure to serve here. I'm really glad I retired when I did, for health reasons. It's NO WONDER I feel so relaxed.

DZ, I'll take you up on your offer. :D I've got a pack horse fitted and we're moving across the desert towards Ingolemondor. I shouldn't have any problems finding your place. I'll send a post back via carrier pigeon occasionally. I'd love to sail to Persia.

Thanks Stuck, eyrei, and Ek. Good luck.

Goodbye, Cyc. The demogame will miss you. I'm sure we all appreciate your massive contributions to it.

Cyc, my mentor.

I can only say goodbye and I hope you change your mind. Please stay and in case you have already gone, please return.

Rik Meleet

Out of all the people in the DG, you have been my closest friend. I am sad to see you go, but I can understand your reasons for leaving. See ya, Cyc.

-plexus

Ah, what I wouldn't give for one more penguin at the Palette at the ol' Bavaria Castle...

Farewell, Cyc. I will truly miss you.

Cyc,

Sorry for taking so bloody long to reply. I'm sorry though, the nation has demanding that you not retire! Your wisdom, patience and humor will be greatly missed.

Not to mention you're one of the few to understand where my sig came from.

I'm hoping that this is a leave of absence, and not a retirement. Hopefully we'll see you once Conquests comes out!

-- Ravensfire

donsig sits at his desk, pen in hand...

Dear Cyc,

I'm glad you're not here to see the sad state our country is in my old friend. Our schizophrenic citizens, who would not give in to Cleopatra's ancient demands when we had no legions, who cried for peace once our legions were in place to crush Egypt, who cried long and loud about the Aztec War, now call for another war with Egypt! It is madness! When will these people learn to plan ahead? When will our leaders learn not to give in to every whim of our fickle citizens?

We have entered a new age but instead of planning to build rails and wonders we plan to be the aggressors in an imperialistic war. What's worse, our gains will be marginal and are not really needed. As I said, i'm glad you're not here to see this!

Your friend,
donsig

donsig puts down his pen and sighs...

As the familiar landscpe of Gorina came into view, I was reminded of how I felt when the Home and Dry sailed into Ingolemondor. The scent of the sea air as the salty spray splashed off the bow. It felt good to be home. When word had spread that I had returned to Fanatica, messenger was sent to the home of Donovan Zoi. The message said that Great Wonders were being built in Gorina and due to the fact that there had been no replacement Mayor, these Wonders were being unceremoniously completed. The essense of the message was to invite me back to Gorina to temporarily fill the position of Mayor and lead the opening dedication ceremony for the completion of the latest Wonder, Universal Suffrage.

The jewels of Persia, the spices, the food, and the beautiful women matched by the sweeping landscapes were all still fresh in my mind, but the opportunity to participate in an event dedicated to bringing a Great Wonder into Fanatica that represented equality in voting privilages was over-whelming. The glorious nation of Fanatica is based on the will of the people.

So now, as I ride through the streets of Gorina, noticing the changes in architecture and the addition of the Theory of Evolution Wonder, a sense of pride rises up inside. Gorina is still growing in a positive way. The hills and fields outside the city are in full production. Railways service all parts of the city and new additions are already being planned for construction. It's hard to believe that all this has taken place without a Mayor. I will have to congratulate the underlings I left behind and thank the Governor for his contributions.

As I ride between the Sistene Chapel and the Theory of Evolution I am overtaken by a sense of awe, but am quickly reminded that I must write a speach for the dedication. I've heard over and over again that Vice President Rik Meleet was the main catalyst in bringing the Universal Suffrage to Gorina. I believe because of his contributions, I will dedicate the Wonder to him. Seems appropriate. :)

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/BEGorina1605ad.jpg

Yes, Culture shock is the term that can best be used to describe my state as I rode through Gorina. There were so many changes to Gorina's looks. For instance, I had instructed the driver of the carriage to take me to the Mayor's Office, but he delivered me not to the Gorina Palace, but to a large brick structure next to the tallest building I had ever seen. In the remodeling of Gorina, the Palace had been torn down and all government work was now being done in the City Building I now stand in front of. These buildings were probably the design work of some graduate of Newton's University, a Great Wonder I had barely caught a glimpse of from my carriage window. I can still witness the flurry of activity leading up to the ceremony later today. I went inside the City Building to my new office to practice my speach.

(later)

The ceremony was in full swing. Food and drink were made available on different tables scattered throughout the area. Government officials were chatting here and there as citizens began filling in the lawns around the Universal Suffrage. A Women's Organization had set up a tent and was handing out fliers and pamphlets. I started to feel the butterflies as dedication time drew near.

My Lord Mayor Cyc,

It has been far, far too long since the citizens of Gorina have had their mayor in residence! Such a wonderful time you have chosen to return to Fanatica!

As you have glimpsed, Gorina, and all of Fanatica, has undergone tremendous changes in the years since you left. The development of private industry, rapid transportation through rails, and electricity throughout the land. Indeed, it is possible to travel from one end of Fanatica to another in mere days. A message can travel almost instantly.

The future of Fanatica has never been brighter! Scientists are developing wonders of which I can scarcely believe as I sign the budget. Imagine flying through the air as if a bird!

The government of Fanatica is planning to celebrate the accomplishments of this term, and prepare for the rest of this term, and the future. Your wisdom and guidance would be of great use. Your humor will be even more welcome!

Again, welcome back to Fanatica!

-- Ravensfire, President of Fanatica

Thank you Mister President. Thank you for the kind words and for allowing me the honor of being here with you today. I have been doing my reading and I must say I am very impressed with your ability to lead the nation of Fanatica. The manner in which you try to provide involvement for all in the game play and show true concern for the well being of the nation, it's no Wonder that the culmination of efforts for equality in voting rights has come to fruition during your Term in Office. I applaud you, ravensfire.
(The crowd lets loose a rousing round of applause at which President ravensfire takes a slight bow and smiles and gently raises his hands, as if to quiet the crowd. He then turns, holds his hand out at arms length towards Mayor Cyc and then sits.)

Ladies and Gentlemen, it has been a long time since I've addressed you here in Gorina, so contrary to my political history I will make this speach one of few words. :) Please do not take this as a gesture that the importance of this moment is a lesser one than any other in Gorina's history. Just the opposite. This is one of the most important dedications ever held, as the true spirit of Fanatica is reflected in this Great Wonder, Universal Suffrage.

Universal Suffrage embodies work each of us has done to move this nation forward. This Great Wonder brings out the glory of Fanatica in that it symbolizes the unity we strive for with each step. This towering statue displays our desire for a better world, where regardless of your gender, your place of birth, your age, or any other factor you count as one strong vote for the issues of Fanatica.

I am honored to stand before you today leading this dedication. As important and truly signifigant as this Great Wonder is, I wish to take this dedication to a new level. There is a man in our government today whose work towards the issues represented here today, have been outstanding. A true leader of men, his tireless efforts and heads up thinking have helped push forward many new ideas. One of those ideas was to bring The Universal Suffrage Wonder to Gorina. One of those examples of hard work and being a driving factor towards the success of a quest is the statue behind me of the young woman holding a Fanatican flag. That man is Rik Meleet and I now dedicated this reminder of our true spirit to him for his work.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you, The Universal Suffrage.

(Applause goes up and everyone makes a toast or two. It is another great day in Gorina. A gold plaque is placed permanently at the bottom of the statue dedicating it to Rik Meleet. Roses are strewn everywhere around the base of "The Lady" and pictures are taken. Rik Meleet is reluctantly dragged out to the front of the statue by Cyc for a photo op. It's party time.)

I am honored to be dedicated this wonder. :blush:

In return I'd like Gorina to go for a Camelot Award by being in the top 5 cities of the World. Gorina has deserved this. To accomplish this Gorina needs a bit more food now and a hospital (finished in 2 turns) and after that vuild both Battlefield Medicine, CIA and even better; Great Wonders of the World.

And also; wouldn't it be nice to get the most difficult victory of all; a 20k cultural victory in Gorina ?

Mayor Cyc, I'm still at your service. I have made a career somewhat and have no time to act as Gorina's deputy Mayor, but Gorina is still my home-city.

I hope you are proud of Gorina.

Rik Meleet
Admirer of Gorina

As the temporary duties of the Mayor's Office slowly dwindled, Cyc wandered the Hallways of the City Building, thanking one and all for the wonderful job they were doing, and wished them the best of luck. He had already thanked the Governor for his efforts, thanked him for the hospital and asked if the mined bonus grassland could get irrigated. Being an old friend of Rik Meleet's, Cyc made sure to pass on a large amount of Incense from Persia to him, thanking the Vice President again for the work he had done. He had also made sure to find his friend Donovan Zoi. In appreciation for the use of his home and the magestic "Home and Dry", Mayor Cyc had a huge Persian rug delivered to his office. In his pocket was the post from donsig, but Cyc was unable to find him. Cyc had had a question regarding the post, but it could wait.

Finishing up his final responsibilities, Cyc threw his Mayor's hat onto the coat rack, took a cigar from the desk, and closed the door behind him as he once again returned to civilian status. It was fun. Maybe he'll get to do it again sometime.

I was at home, as usal, checking the status of the war, the world opinion of us, and of course, the building of the SETI Program on my laptop. With the latest Fanatica.com upgrade for the government, almost any information I wanted was available to me (thanks to my pals here at City Hall). I was very happy to see the SETI Program being built here in Gorina, as it is the Science Capital of the world. I also noticed that Gorina had one of the two Uranium deposits of Fanatica within its city limits (the other being in Gorina's sister city of Palatine). Ample fuel for research.

Anyway, a flag pops up telling me that I've received an email from the Domestic Minister, Rik Meleet. Clicking on the flag brought up the email and the voice associated with Rik Meleet in my mind's eye. The message was brief, but filled with good news.

It seems RM had been monitoring the Top 5 Cities of the World List and was proud to inform me that Gorina had finally climbed up onto the bottom rung of that list. I was overjoyed and immediately opened a bottle of my finest Gorina wine to toast the occasion to myself.....buuuut...the phone rang. So here I am now on the front steps of City Hall at the humble request of the people who brought me here last time. Many thanks, by the way to my old colleagues here in local government. Now as I stand before you, I can't help but notice all of Fanatica's TV News vans lining the curb. My, how things have changed. ;)

I understand that a lot of people here in Gorina are unhappy about the war, unhappy about the loss of some of our imports, or just unhappy about how long it takes to drive from one end of Gorina to the other. These are strenuous times, my fellow citizens. But they will pass. Soon we will be on our way to Alpha Centauri, as the Space Program is about to begin. Let's turn things around, and let's start right here in Gorina. With the elevation of World Opinion for our great city of Gorina, we are now eligible for Camelot Status. Yes, we are the first city to be eligible for a Camelot Award since DG1. We now join the ranks of the best cities in Demogame History. Rise up people, and be not unhappy. It is another great day in Gorina.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/Camelotstatus.jpg

Ceremony for the Camelot Award Presentation is being scheduled now and will take place soon. All are welcome and all are invited. Special thanks goes out to Rik Meleet, the Son of Gorina, for all his hard work in bringing our city to it's present status.

Edit: 148/1547

Lord Mayor and Most Trusted Friend Cyc,

Greetings from afar. I write this to you today from a quaint little ski resort in Minsk, where I have spent the better part of this past winter trying to forget the terrible losses we have endured as a nation - so many lives of so many of our children.... And yet, if what my trusted aide has told me is true about our progress in Iron Hills, and we are indeed on the brink of reaching for the stars, then their sacrifices have not been in vain.

The view from the balcony affixed to my suite is one of legends. Of my many travels, I often return to this spot just for this view. As I write this, the sun has just dropped below the horizon, setting the ocean afire. Behind me, the snow-covered mountaintops glow bright orange as if touched by the gods themselves.

In all my worldly travels, this is just one of many wondrous sights, each equally inspiring and awesome to behold, but none of these compares to the feeling I get whenever I gaze upon my adopted home of Gorina. When last I visited, you had just completed the Sistene Chapel and celebrations had become a nearly nightly occurrence at the colosseum. The city was afire with excitement and that memory has kept me warm on many a cold night during my travels.

And now, I hear that the great people of Gorina are once again leading the way for all of us as we near completion of the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Life! The Science Capitol of the World continues to set the pace for others to follow - another great accomplishment for such a grand city.

I have also received word that our fair city is to be honored with the Camelot Award. This is indeed a great honor and there is no city that I can think of that is more deserving. My aides have already begun preparations for our departure, for nothing in heavan nor earth can prevent me from attending this celebration.

I look forward to seeing you upon my arrival and I look forward to raising our glasses together once again. God Bless Gorina.

Your everfaithful friend,
FortyJ

Citizens of Gorina and all Fanaticans...

Just a quick post here to announce the schedule of the Award Ceremony. The City of Gorina has rented the services of the Fanatica Amphitheatre to house the event. This event will start tomorrow October 15th at 1500 hrs EDt and run to approximately 0300 hrs October 18th EDT. That's approximately 2 and a half days of food and entertainment with the award being presented by our Domestic Leader Rik Meleet somewhere in there. Hopefully we'll have speeches galore, as usual. I have received word that the former Demogame President, honorable FortyJ will be in attendance. This alone will bring a shing star to the Gorina nights. Gladiatus will be in charge of the entertainment, we are all sure to be pleased with this additional highlight. So come, enjoy the celebration. It's time to welcome in Gorina's good fortune.

Three hurrays for Gorina.

This Gorina-thread already is a jewel in literaturistic writing. We'll make an effort to make it a diamond. What better occassion than the sought-after Camelot Award ?

Rik, as the Domesic Leader, will certainly be present and is already preparing his speech. double 'e' , not 'ea'. I am so very honored that I am Domestic Leader at this pinnacle of glory for all DG's so far. A Camelot award means more to me than a victory; I consider it a Grand Victory.

Rik Meleet
Domestic Leader

Received over the Fanatican wire

lord mayor cyc [stop] don't know how you found me but i am glad you did [stop] am currently searching for exit strategy from quote vacation unquote in japan [stop] no need for alarm I have contacts in spiceland [stop] will find my way to your great city by ceremony's end [stop] long live gorina [stop] respectfully dz [endtrans]

The three day ceremony was due to start in about 2 hours. With the morning parade celebrating the day winding down, people began to wander into the Colosseum. I stood before the grand structure, reminiscing days of old when the Fanatica Amphitheatre was regarded as one of the world's greatest stadiums. Through the years, it had been modified and improved to keep it current with modern structures. It could now seat almost double what the original structure did. Still an architectural wonder to its kind, it held many secrets and closeted many skeletons. Yesterday's Gladiators of battle are now today's Gladiators of commerce, wielding cell phones instead of broadswords.

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Upon my entry, I passed one of the original stones placed for this arena. I felt I was walking in the footsteps of the many forgotten, but great heroes of Fanatica. Thier stories laid open with every step.

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In it's long history, the Fanatica Amphitheatre had seen the Medieval, the Renaissance, and the Modern. It is a grand structure which is nothing so much as an open-air museum, that glories in its glories and is a monument to itself.

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Gladiatus appears on the podium grandstand nestled at the open end of the Colosseum. He is dressed in a suit that must have set him back a pretty penny. I can see by the way he speaks to people on the way to the podium, some he is giving thanks, some he is giving last minute instructions to, that he has had a very busy morning. The applause starts to grow and people begin stamping their feet beneath them. It climbs to a deafening zenith as he reaches the podium. He throws his clenched fist into the air and yells "Strength and Honor". The crowd responds...

Gladiatus reaches for the microphone to make an adjustment and the crowd noise dies down. He leans slowly into the mic, "Greetings People. Welcome to the Fanatica Amphitheatre."

"The ceremony for the Camelot Award Presentation has begun!"

The crowd goes wild again, this time Gladiatus grabs the mic and yells into it, "I'll be back with you shortly, stay tuned!". And with that waves to the crowd and exits, shaking hands as he goes.

As per plan, the huge field in the center of the arena became filled with the marching bands of the local High Schools. Each was announced by Isaac Newton as they came onto the field one after another, playing their school song in turn. Each were accompanied by their cheerleading squads. Gorina High School, the largest in the region, took the very center of the field. When all were in place, they played the Fanatica National Anthem in unison, while marching a beautifully coreographed routine. At it's finale Gorina High's Varsity Football Team - "The Gladiators" - the winningest team in the history of Triple A high school football, was introduced and emerged from the tunnels to the thankful applause of the crowd. The festivities carried on for hours with a small rivalry competition between the bands being enjoyed by the audience.

Gladiatus had coordinated the entire event, as well as most of what would take place for the rest of the work week. He had been made the CEO of the Coloseeum some time ago, and was doing a fine job running the place with local sports, concerts, and events such as this. He had become the success people had wanted him to become. But he was not at the podium as he had planned. He was with me walking down this cool passage to a meeting with other officials. Both of us had been called away for some mysterious reason. Some suspected the Military. We shall see...

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As Gladiatus and I headed back topside, I couldn't help but notice the artistic design of the archways. Such beauty in even the smallest detail was signature not only for the Colosseum, but for Gorina as well. A true Culture Metropolis, Gorina was a beacon for the people of Fanatica, not only guiding them into the future, but recording their colorful past.

That's why I'm struck with such anxiety. Gladiatus, with his military and educated background, seemed to be fine with it. But we just left a room filled with CIA, NSC, and Generals who were looking at us like we were to blame. Half these people didn't even exist. Lost to mankind sometime or another that no one will be able to trace, yet here they were, pointing at maps and reports and instructing us of what they strongly suggest we do to help the situation. I was willing to go along with anything they said, but Gladiatus started asking questions. Obviously they were the right questions, as he got prompt answers. I just stood there looking at him, I think my mouth was open, but I couldn't say anything. What a day this was. We were dismissed and lead from the room.

Afte leaving, I asked Gladiatus how he remained so calm, cool, and collected in the meeting. He looked at me and smiled. "Come with me", he said as he led me to his office on our way up. There he showed me a picture of him that was used in the early days when he was training our Army of Legionairies.

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/Roman.jpg

"That caption is my motto - my secret weapon", he said smiling, "so tell no one."

As we walked into the bright sunlight, we found ourselves among the unknowing people of Fanatica. We moved swiftly to the podium grandstands. Actually, I was trying to keep up with Gladiatus.

From an almost ancient-looking structure in old Noshuret, and old man stepped out. Amongst crowds of people in modern dress, he looked odd for wearing a suit that may have been fashionable long ago.

This man was Octavian the Tenth, a once great leader whom had retired years ago.

As he walked down the quiet street, he reread a letter he had recieved, the first one in a long while.

'So, my old friend Cyc, you've managed to do it again,' he thought to himeself with a smile.

--------

Now in Gorina, Octavian took his place at the Colosseum. He never had liked large crowds much, prefering the one-on-one negotion his diplomatic skiils had brought him when he was younger.

Taking his seat, Octavian waited for the ceremony to begin.

As we climbed the stairs of the grandstands where the podium was located, I noticed Octavian X sitting in one of the comfortable chairs that Gladiatus had supplied us. We exchanged smiles. Octavian shrugged slightly, as if asking what's up? what's the delay? I extended the silent conversation by holding out my hands and shaking my head. I then signaled a page to see to Octavian's needs. Gladiatus was headed for the podium.

The marching bands had pretty much left the field and a maintenance crew was straightening up after them. Gladiatus put his hands on the podium and tested its strength. "Ladies and Gentlemen, due to recent developments abroad, we have an announcment to make. We have intelligence reports that the people of Germany have been working at breakneck speed on the SETI Program in Berlin and will finish mere hours before our SETI Wonder is completed here in Gorina. As terrible news as this is, we do have a back up plan. I'd now like to introduce the Honorary Mayor of Gorina, a long time friend, and a driving force in our city achieving Camelot status, Mayor Cyc...". An almost tenitive applause went up as the people we digesting what they had just heard and were waiting for something else. A slick move by Gladiatus, I thought as we crossed paths and smiled. My turn...

"People of Gorina and beyond, what Gladiatus has said is true. High level intelligence has shown that we have lost the opportunity to claim the SETI Program. We are not happy with this development for many reasons, one of them being the recent war with Germany. Although I believed a peace treaty was signed with them this afternoon, that doesn't change the fact that they declared war on us for no apparent reason. I hate to admit that we have lost such a valuable wonder to these barbarians, but those are the facts. As mentioned before, we do have a backup plan.

"It seems our friends in the Military has as much trouble accepting this loss as I do. Therefore their engineers have been brought in to modify our Wonder during the remaining build time to a new project. That being the Manhattan Project. The undertaking will be done with Military funding and should be completed on schedule. I will surely miss having the SETI Program here in Gorina, but with a slight mental stretch, I can change the Military Wonder of the Manhattan Project into a Science Wonder. especially with the Uranium deposits we have close by. Perhaps this will deter Germany from declaring war on us again. Domestic Leader Rik Meleet is presently at the site of the Wonder and will be here soon to present the Camelot Award to you, the beautiful people of Gorina. So that's it as far as the *important announcement*, let's get this show on the road.

"As you can see Octavian X is seated behind me waiting for the Presentation to begin. He's one of the many great people that you will be seeing on this stage sometime within the next 2 days. You already know that FortyJ and Rik Meleet will be here. We also have Donovan Zoi, Eklektikos, and Shaitan due in. It's slated to be a celebrity celebration here at the Fanatica Amphitheatre this week. So thank you for coming and have fun!"

Everything went according to plan. On October 15th at 1930 hours, former President Donovan Zoi was recovered by the reconaissance division of the Fanatican Elite Guard.

Mr. Zoi had been sightseeing in Tokyo when his host country suddenly joined the war against his beloved nation. As news of war began to take over the Japanese capital, Zoi knew he couldn't stay. There was no way he would allow himself to compromise Fanatican resolve by getting himself captured. Securing as many supplies as he could, Donovan Zoi took to the mountains.

He took advantage of his remote whereabouts for as long as he could, and eventually was befriended by some Japanese mountain dwellers. By teaching them simple ways to improve their living conditions, he was able to persuade some of them to work as messengers. At the time, this idea seemed to be folly but the fall of Edo and founding of the Fanatican town of Spiceland changed all that. Within days, contact was made with the Fanatican garrisons protecting the new town.

This is of course how Donovan received Mayor Cyc's request, and how he was able to respond back. All with the help of primitive folk that had no idea what was going on in their country. These people also helped the elder statesman find his way safely to an agreed-upon rendezvous point, where friendly troops escorted him back to Spiceland.

"Welcome back, sir," stated one of the Elites. "You should stay in our quarters and get some rest."

"Perhaps I can do that on one of our great ships." Donovan replied, "I have plans in Gorina that I cannot miss."

"Very well, sir" said the respectful soldier. "Speaking of Gorina, did you know that it has passed the tiny burg of Persepolis on the list of Great Cities? Gorina is now Number 4 on the list."

"That is great news indeed," replied the former President, who decided it would be best to grab a shower, shave and civilian haircut before getting some sleep. The coming days would be important indeed.

It was a new day in Gorina. The feastivities of the night before were running through my mind. Gladiatus had set up the entertainment for the rest of the night perfectly. Popular local bands took the stage to fill the night with music. Food and wine flowed as crowds discussed and sang and danced through the night. Everything pretty much ended when a national recording star finished up there music and said good night.

I had brought Gladiatus over to Octavian's table and we ordered a couple of bottles of Gorina's finest wine. We spent most of the night remembering the good ole bad ole days. But there was still plenty of current news to discuss. We basically had the run of the Colosseum, so there were constant smiles on our face.

The night ended and we knew we would see each other the following day. It again promised to be a busy one.

I had arrived early at the Colosseum and had spent much of the morning as a spectator. I was simply astounded by the resources that Gladiatus had available to him. It must come from doing this for a living. We've seen a Chinese ethnic dance troupe amaze us with color and movement. A small contortionist clown circus followed that up. These were the late morning and lunch-time shows. I was very impressed. After lunch, Gladiatus took me up to the Security Control Room, in anticipation of Rik Meleet's arrival.

Domestic Leader Rik Meleet and I had been communicating via cell phones all morning. The transition from one Wonder to the other was going smoothly. He was prepared to make the trip to the Colosseum.

I could see him arriving at the gates in his limo in the security screens piped into my laptop. I contacted all the checkpoints he arrived at to authorize his passage. He may need help getting through the inner rings of security. Basically guiding him down the right corridors, I awaited his arrival in person.

As he came down the corridor, I saw RM in a fine Italian suit. All business as usual. He looked great. We shook shook hands and exchanged close looks and the smiles of two men about to face large audience. Nervous but present.

We walked up on the grandstand and RM took a seat while I headed for the podium. I wasted no time.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, without futher adeu, I like to introduce the man you've all been wating for. A man that arrived in Gorina not long after we started this quaint little town. :) A man who's hard work and dedication to Gorina is only matched by his love for this city. A man who always comes back to make sure things are right with his hometown. A man that has grown from being a city employee here in Gorina to the Domestic Leader of Fanatica, Rik Meleet."

The applause was thundering as Gorinians welcomed home their favored son. "Rik, Rik.." the crowd cheered. Everyone was on their feet. It was a fine day in Gorina.

Rik Meleet stepped out of his limo, dressed in his finest suit. It had been a long time since he laid eyes upon Gorina, except from the air in his plane. The site of the city stunned him, as always.

He saw his old friend Cyc moving towards him with his hand stretched out to greet him. Rik didn't take his hand, but hugged him dearly instead.

Cyc guided him to the podium where he greeted all attendees, reserving a special ancient fanatican greeting for Gladiatus. He chatted with the officials and talked with Gladiatus about the time Gorina was nothing more than a peasant-village and how it had grown to this number 4 city of the world.

Cyc tapped Rik on his back and whispered: "Your honor, it is time. The crowd is awaiting the presentation of the Camelot Award".

Rik stepped on the podium and walked to the microphone.

"Gorinians, Fanaticans and CFC-officials. We are assembled here for a very special and rare occassion, which has only happened to this great forum once before; the presentation of a Camelot Award.

This is an award handed out to a city which makes it into the top 5 cities of the world in a Democracy game. I am very honored that I, as Domestic Leader, am allowed to present you this award. But first I'll have a quick historical overview of great city of Gorina; Great you say? ...yes, great.

These were the words I often spoke in my time as deputy Mayor of Gorina and what a prophecy they turned out to become. When I first spoke these words Gorina the city, or 'village' as it was then known, was very busy building a granary. It sounds insignificant, but that building trained our architects, builders and logistic-people how to build buildings. With the passing of time bigger, more impressive buildings were build; a temple, a courthouse and a collosseum; the one we are standing in right now.

The true building capacities of all Gorinians where first known throughout the entire world was in 860 AD with the completion of Sistine's Chapel. But this turned out to only be the prelude of Gorina's future. Very soon after that, in 1060 AD another building stunned the world; Copernicus Observatory was build by Gorina. This opened up options never expected by then. Recently the best Fanatican astronomers have used this Observatory when they discovered a planet, far far away, which is very suitable for colonisation. The whole nation is preparing to leave our current planet and settle there, free from all enemies around us.

The next great Gorinian generation of builders surpassed even their already magnificent predeccessors with Newton's University. The path Gorina followed then makes a change. This university kindled a complete new way of thinking; where did we originated from ? The longest-lasting memories people had were from 4000 BC when a group of the first Fanaticans wandered around the desert near what is now known as "Noshuret" and decided to live there, starting our nation. But what was before that; people didn't just originate, so where did they come from ? The seeds for a new theory were sown, right here in Gorina. This way of thinking reached his peak in 1480 when it was discovered that animals and fanaticans share common ancestors. The Theory of Evolution was discovered and a world-impressing building was build in Gorina.

Until around the 1550's Fanatica was a purely male-dominated nation. Gorinian philosophers realised that women are equal to men and deserve the same rights as men. Although the nation and the world seemed reluctant to accept these ideas in first, the Gorinian movement continued and in 1585 women were accepted as equals. To celebrate this huge leap forward the Universal Suffrage was designed and build in Gorina. Again the world was flabbergasted at Gorina's achievements. Some voices other than fanatican voices started to gain volume; perhaps Gorina is the greatest city in the world !

But not until a few years ago Gorina's status in the world rose so high that it truly is considered the 5th city of the world !!! "

At this moment former president Donovan Zoi and Lord-Mayor Cyc both jump up and whisper to Rik "Sir this afternoon Gorina rose on the list and is currently the 4th city already".

Without even a small change in his voice, but with even more shining eyes Rik continued:

"I repeat, But not until a few years ago Gorina's status in the world rose so high that it truly is considered the 4th city of the world !!! And it's glory is rising higher and higher. With the completion of SETI, which had it's roots in Copernicus Observatory, we can talk to aliens in space and invite them to our soon-to-be next homeplanet for an intergallactic celebration ! And if the @#%@**& Germans beat us to it; they'll regret it as we will change this building, currently being build on Manhattan's way into a project to create such a detterrent weapon that no-one will ever declare war on us again. At least they won't survive to the magnificent day we'll have lift-off.

But now it is time to reveal the Camelot Award. This award is for you all, and for all your effort you put in into getting Gorina into the top 5 cities of the world. I can't look into the future, but I expect Gorina to one day reach the top 1 spot. "

The trumpets sounded, the 1000 dancers enterred the pitch and the crowd and officials rose from thir chairs. Rik walked to the center of the pitch where a huge covered up 'something' had been all day. Mayor Cyc guided Rik to the 'something'

With a huge, symbolic, gladiator sword Rik cut the ropes holding the covering sheets in their place and for the first time the Gorinians, the Fanaticans and the CFC-officials could see the Camelot Award:

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The crowd was struck with awe. Rik's last official words of that day were: "Our nation was number 1 in the medeavil times and will be the first to reach for the stars; let this be an inspiration for all of you in our long road to space ! "

After about an hour or so, Gladiatus has an array of different utility vehicles load the Award up and moved next to the podium Grandstands. It's photo op time! Everyone and their cousin wants a picture of this. The media is going wild. Gladiatus has special flood lights brought in for perfect lighting. The speechmakers are watering at the mouth. This is a Journalist's and Pavarazzi's wonderland.

Cyc had been overcome emotionally, to the point of tears during the Presentation, and had sought peace and solitude in the Executive Lounge. He now re-emerged and was prepared to thank Rik Meleet in an address to the audience. He talked briefly with some of the people on the grandstands and then approached the podium, beaming.

"People of Gorina, this is a proud moment, a proud occaision for me to stand before you today. I'm so very glad I could be a part of it. The city of Gorina has not only achieved our goal of Camelot status, but we are improving on the mark daily.

"I accept this award on behalf of Gorina and its citizens.

"I turn to honor Rik Meleet, for beyond his work here in Gorina, beyond the work he did as Governor of Esquiline Province, beyond his current position as Domestic Leader, and the many other positions he's filled, he still has time and energy to go above and beyond the call of duty for the well-being of Gorina. You may have presented this award to us today Rik Meleet, but your are surely on the receiving end of this ceremony also. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, as I'm sure the rest of Gorina does." A flurry of applause arose from the audience. Turning back to crowd,

"This is your award Gorina, you have done well, as you shall remain doing so. It's in your nature. Congratulations". The tears had returned as Cyc finished his acceptance speech. He waved and left the podium.

The crowd stands, the applause for Mayor Cyc, Rik Meleet, Gladiatus and Gorina continues unabated for many minutes. Among the crowd is an old man, remembering his glory days in the Judicial Hut. No one applauds louder than he as a tear rolls down his cheek...

Originally posted by Rik Meleet



At this moment former president Donovan Zoi and Lord-Mayor Cyc both jump up and whisper to Rik "Sir this afternoon Gorina rose on the list and is currently the 4th city already".



Once awake from his first great night of sleep in several months, Donovan Zoi laughed heartily when he heard the news. So effective was his body double that he even fooled the eagle eye of the great Rik Meleet. Donovan had known he would be late to the proceedings, but did not want to show any disrespect nor let the world know of his earlier plight. Mayor Cyc was in the know, however, and went along with the charade after the former President promised not to be a no-show this time.

While reflecting on the many times he had stood up the honorable Mayor of Gorina, Mr. Zoi pondered his reclusive past. He had pretty much stayed under the radar after his Presidency, save for a a small dance with the public late in Term 4. His vocal trips to the capital at that time led to his successful bid for Domestic Leader in Term 5. However, he left the keys on his desk less than halfway into his tenure and had hardly been heard from since.

Now, from his hotel suite in Alexandria, Donovan Zoi wondered if it was too late to right these wrongs. He wondered if time had taken away for good his talent and desire for speechwriting. Reading the transcripts from Rik Meleet's powerful address, he wondered what he could possibly add to such eloquence. Only one way to find out, he thought. He grabbed a seat, opened up his laptop and started tapping away furiously at the keys before him......

While writing his early drafts, Donovan felt that there was something that needed to be said. Something that just couldn't wait. It didn't need to be said publicly; it just needed to get into the right hands. So he took a break from his mission and fired off a quick email to Mayor Cyc:

To my good friend Cyc,

I am glad to see that there will be a new wonder on the horizon for your great city. My only fear is that it will be the wrong one.

Let me ask you one question: On this most glorious of days, do you really want your world-class city to soon be associated with a Wonder that will bring fear and possibly destruction upon the entire world? While I have no problem with our further pursuit of the Manhattan Project, I really feel that it an endeavor better left to the military industrial complex that is Aureus. Let us switch the objectives of our two great cities so that we may build the United Nations in Gorina. Not only will this further enhance Gorina's world-class stature, it may also provide enough cultural benefit to send your great city past the paltry town of Washington on the world stage.

Let's make Gorina a symbol of world unity, not world degradation. If you find my idea to have merit, please go through the proper channels to make this happen. As promised, I will address your proud citizenry tomorrow.


My eternal respect and friendship,

Donovan Zoi

Email to Donovan Zoi
Priority: High
Subject: Arrival in Gorina

My good friend DZ. I'm pleased you've received my correspondance and are heading this way. We await your arrival. My encrypted cell number is *** *** ****. Use it when you get close.

I totally agree with you about the Manhattan Project. It was just the way things turned out. We are trying to sway public opinion towards your suggestion now.

The celebration is goin strong and will continue on through the night. Travel safe.

Mayor Cyc

An elderly statesman steps up to the podium, unannounced and seemingly unexpectedly. There is much consternation with a handful of guards moving to intercept the gentlemen until called back by a discreet sign from the Mayor. The crowd is full of murmured questions from the younger attendees and respectful replies from their older neighbors. "Who is that?" "It is Shaitan, founder of Noshuret and Gorina, our first President."

His shoulders are a bit stooped with age and his hair is a silver mane where once sable locks flowed but his eyes are clear and steady and his voice retains the calm strength that first led Fanaticans past their fears and tribulations to the road of their current greatness.

"Friends, Fanaticans, Countrymen and Women. Today marks a culmination of greatness first glimpsed thousands of years ago. Gorina was founded with hope and great expectations and these have indisputably been fulfilled.

"Some of you were with me in Gorina's early days. The early days of Fanatica itself, for the two are closely linked. You remember the excitement of the settlers as they first built along the banks of a great river. You remember the fear and uncertainty as our exploring troops brought back reports that we were not alone. That Gorina had neighbors of foul disposition and barbaric mein. You remember the terror as Gorina was sacked, the bloody streets as our people were slaughtered and our warriors were overrun.

"And you remember how we picked up the pieces. How we rebuilt the homes. You remember the fierce pride and iron determination that infused the people of Gorina. A pride that has never faded, never waned. That fierce pride that spread from a tiny village and has become synonymous with Fanatica itself.

"This is what we celebrate today. That pride, that selflessness, that assurity and determination. The willingness to help a neighbor, the fierce protectiveness of the Gorinian heritage. These things have been manifested in the great city you see around us now. Gorinians have always known the wonders of their city but now the world itself has acknowledged it. 'That city', they say, 'is a city of greatness. That city is an example of what a city can be, a beacon to others, an example that not only should be but must be followed.'

"I give you Gorina, The Pride of Fanatica!"

Deafening applause erupts from the crowd as Shaitan steps down. He exchanges words briefly with his old compatriots and he smiles with genuine goodwill as he is introduced to newer prominent citizens. Eventually the crowd settles back down and he is escorted from the Collosseum.

Cyc gets up and addresses the crowds which are quite noisy, probably discussing that remarkable speech.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, the Honorable SHAITAN!" Another round of applause to go up, one that maybe Shaitan's escort heard on the way out of the Colosseum, and into the parking lot, and then out onto the street, ....

"Quite a speech, I'd say, and we still have more coming. So grab an ale or a glass of wine, snarf a ballpark frank or burrito, and enjoy our next wave of entertainment.

"Please join me in welcoming from Noshuret, The Capital Clowns!" At this circus music came over the stadium speakers (which still sound good!) and out onto the field tumbled a dozen or so clowns. Each was dressed to represent n historical political figure of Fanatica, plus over-sized shoes. They were quite good actually, tumbling and tossing each other around. The families were thrilled and entertained for about twenty minutes, then the Keystone Kops came running out, followed by an old jalopy, which in turned was being chased by the bad guys. Hilarious...

It was a long ride from Alexandria, but not as long as he'd once remembered it. In the years of his absence, Fanatica had made great strides --- especially as far as public transportation was concerned. From his train window, Donovan Zoi saw the coming town as it seemed to build itself before his very eyes. Before he knew it, he found himself traveling through the heart of Gorina.

The city was a marvel to behold, and virtually unrecognizable from how it looked during his last visit. Donovan knew that the continual metamorphasis of Gorina was a testament to the dedication of several people --- he himself had participated in some closed door meetings --- but ultimately bore the stamp of two men: Cyc and Rik Meleet.

Their vision could be experienced in every corner the sprawling metropolis. There was something worthwhile waiting at every railway stop. Streets looked safe. Traffic flowed quite smoothly, which seemed quite an accomplishment for the world's largest Top 5 city. And suddenly, the train slowed for Donovan Zoi one last time. As he rose from his seat, he couldn't help but notice the large structure to his left. The Colloseum. Once again, Mayor Cyc's understanding and respect for his constituents shone through. Thoroughly dazzled, Donovan joined the hordes of Fanaticans emerging from the train. As if by habit, the now-empty silver railbus closed its doors and continued on its course, although there was certainly no reason to so do. Everyone was right here, either inside or gathering around the great Colosseum.

Donovan looked across the platform to see a new building under construction, although no one seemed to be working there today. He would have thought that the day off was due to the celebration had he not seen an eerily similar sight earlier in the day, as his train glided through Aureus. Perhaps construction in both cities was halted to discuss his suggestion. Donovan usually disgusted himself with his own presumptuous arrogance, but had to chuckle when his instincts were confirmed to be correct.

He was still laughing to himself as he descended the stairs and headed through the crowd toward an inconspicuous door on the outer wall of the colosseum. As he got to the door, it opened and he was greeted by Mayor Cyc and someone who looked a lot like ---- him. A murmur started throughout the surrounding crowd as they saw this development. As the throngs of frenzied citizen's closed in for a glimpse of Mayor Cyc and Donovan Zoi, the real DZ quickly ducked into the opening.

All was not lost for the disappointed onlookers however. They did get a chance to best each other for a souveneir, as the mysterious man cast his dreadlock wig and trenchcoat out to the crowd before the door closed behind all three men entirely.

"Whew", says Cyc as he closes the door behind the other two men, "It's a madhouse out there.

"I'm so glad you called, DZ. Welcome back my friend. The years have treated you well. Are you hungry? Need to rest?...Is there anything I can get you?" To which Donovan Zoi replied that he could stand for a glass of wine, as the train ride was not that restful. "Follow me," Cyc answered.

As they traveled up the steps to the executive lounge, Cyc motioned towards a small maintenance door, and opened it slightly.

"Take a look at what awaits you, DZ. Hmm, it looks like they've already put the tarp down for tonight's concert. Too bad you couldn't see this in the daylight...." Both of the other men take a closer look...

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/colomaint1.jpg

Cyc closes the door. "Just a little hint of what's to come" he says with a smile. They continue on to the executive lounge, where a glass of wine is had by the men. DZ's body double fills him in on wanted details. When everyone is ready, they head for the podium grandstands.

Cyc leads as the three men climb the steps of the grandstands, and he heads again, straight for the podium. DZ and his double begin to speak with others about the events of the day. Cyc is all smiles as he reaches the podium.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my exxtreme pleasure to introduce to you a great leader. A man who has been around since the begining of this game as inspiring new ideas and helping to build Fanatica. He has been your President and your Domestic Leader. He has drawn up guidelines that have helped Fanatica move into the future. After a brief hiatus, he has returned to us tonight to help us celebrate. Please join me in welcoming...Donovan Zoi."

A rousing round of applause goes up for what looks like might be the last speaker of the celebration...

Upon hearing the voices of 120,000 strong roaring in approval at the mention of his name, it was hard for Donovan Zoi to believe that just three days ago he was still foraging for sustinance in the hills northwest of Tokyo. It was even more unfathomable to him that less than 12 hours after kissing mainland Fanatican soil in Alexandria 2 days ago, he found himself once again locked in an all-too-familiar role: finding a cause, opening his mouth and going head-to-head with some of Fanatica's best and brightest.

So there was plenty to talk about backstage before his name was announced. Rik Meleet's quick handling of his request to bring a referendum before Congress. His own quick detour to the Capital Building in Noshuret to vocalize his support for the referendum, locking horns with former President Ravensfire in the process. The fact that the voters decision to bring the UN to Gorina hung in the balance. The fact that nukes were coming from somewhere, even if he could successfully persuade them away from Gorina.

Even as the voices seemed to grow louder, the uncertainty of the day made Donovan unsure of how he should address the city. So, once again he just decided to "wing it", like he had so many times before. He advanced to the podium, shook hands with Mayor Cyc and began to speak......

Ladies and gentlemen of Gorina, this is indeed a glorious time. One of many that your great city has experienced since the first brave settlers headed south from Noshuret to embark on a grand adventure. They travelled until they came to a river, and from that river sprang forth a city ripe with boundless opportunity and promise. And for each day thereafter, the dedicated citizens of Gorina have maximized every opportunity so that it could one day fulfill that promise.

Citizens of Gorina......that day is today.

The frenzied crowd of thousands erupts in approval until it feels like the very foundations of the Colloseum will collapse.

From the depths of my heart, I congratulate the noble citizens of Gorina for earning the coveted Camelot Award. And while this award will bring to your great city a significant increase in stature, I hope you all realize that with this stature comes responsibility. Responsibility to your country, responsibility to your fellow man, and responsibility to our vast world.

I am sure that many of you will ask: why does he ask of us what we already know, and provide? And you would be justified in asking. The people of Gorina have always set the bar when it comes to these things. But this is a new age, and we have a new set of decisions before us.

I know that you are all well aware of our current situation regarding the SETI program. However, it seems that many of you may not be aware of what lies ahead for us if we follow the current back-up plan set before us. Pursuing the Manhattan Project here will undermine everything that your great city has stood for all these years. If we were to see this through to completion, all that follows would stain Gorina's legacy for all eternity as the city would lead the way in unleashing an abomination that we couldn't possibly fathom.

For the record, I had lobbied for founding the United Nations here, so that representatives from around the world could take in the splendor of your world-class city. But that is not going to happen. Our only hope is that we can convince the powers that be to allow us to commence the Apollo Program here. We will have to scrap some of the hard work we invested in SETI, we will be able to use much of it to ensure a smooth transition into our Space Age.

Donovan Zoi's voice rose in tone.

So, citizens of Gorina, I ask you. Do you want the events of the last few days to culminate with the embodiment of death and destruction? Our would you rather we set our sights on a goal more specific to our grand scientific heritage? Let us build the Apollo Program here!

I ask for you all to join me in a call for No Nukes in Gorina! And if possible, no Nukes in all of Fanatica!

The crowd began to join in and soon most of the crowd was chanting "No Nukes! No Nukes!" Donovan Zoi had imagined it would be this loud, but tried to get in one last thing.

Congratulations, people of Gorina! Now, act with a newfound sense of purpose and responsibility! The entire world is watching us now!

As usual, Donovan thought he may have taken things a bit too far, but what was done was done and the crowd had now taken on a life of its own. For the moment, things seemed very under control so the speaker raised his fist in solidarity to the crowd and headed backstage to apologize to his host for once again turning one of Gorina's celebrations on its ear......

Donovan Zoi was met by Cyc, who hands him a glass of Gorina wine. "Excellent. Excellent speech," as their glasses touch, "Gorina owes you a debt of gratitude, DZ." A sip is taken, smiles are had, and once again, Cyc heads for the podium.

The basic theme of DZ's speech had been very appealing to the younger crowd in the arena. With the under current of the No-Nukes theme bringing about a feeling of solidarity among the thousands who now fill the pitch, Cyc realized he should make his speech short and let th concert begin.

Cyc turns and raises his hand towards the Fanatican Leaders behind him, "Donovan Zoi, Ladies and Gentlemen, Donovan Zoi."

As the applause dies down, "What a night this has been. The brilliance of entertainment brought to you by Gladiatus, the delicious food and wine, which is still available, the diversity and controversy, the intrigue of high level meetings, plus we get a speech from Donovan Zoi." A quick round of applause erupts from the Colosseum, based on the tarped area. "I'll tell you, if there's one person who's autobiography I'd like to read, it would be DZ's.

"But enough of me, this night is for you Gorina. You have marched along side one another through the millenia, focused on the future, bringing forth the best of the best. Former President Ravensfire has called Gorina the "City of Knowledge", and he is right. But not only in Science and Mathematics. Also in the Cultural Arts, with our civic heritage we have produce the finest Historians and Mapmakers, Musicians and Artists. We are also the hub of religious studies in Fanatica, the proud home of the Sistine Chapel located in the Vatican. All of these areas have come together as our societal base and combined have made us one of the strongest, brightest stars on the face of the planet.

"And soon we shall gather and move on to another planet. Yes, Former Preseident Ravensfire has personally told me this evening that Gorina will not only build the first Spaceship component, but also the very last, as we prepare for lift off, after the completion of the Apollo Program.

"So party on, Gorina. You deserve it! With that, I'd like to bring out Gladiatus, the man responsible for all of the entertain you've witnessed here this week. Let's have a big hand for Gladiatus!"

Through the applause, a low chant starts to rise welcoming Gladiatus to the mic. With a huge smile, he raises his hands slightly and the crowd quiets. "Good evening people of Gorina, welcome again to the Fanatica Amphitheatre. We now move onto the final Concert of this celebration. We've had a slight shift in band rotation tonight, we're going to start off with a band that's sure to climb the charts like a rocket, the Nukeless Nucleus. Give us a few minutes to set it up and the music will begin. Thank you all for coming and enjoy the rest of the show." Again the chant starts as he smiles and waves and lets out one final "Strength and Honor" for the crowd and goes back stage to join the others.

The bands played on through the night into the wee hours of the morning as the Colosseum slowly emptied. A grand finale to a grand week. Gorina, Camelot of Fanatica.

A special thanks goes out to Eric and Wendy Pastore of digitalballparks.com for the use of their pictures.

2:12am.... It's hard to believe how fast the time has flown by... FortyJ mused to himself. The not-so-faint echo of drums, guitars and screeching synthesizers from the Nukeless Nucleus could still be heard over the din of the crowd inside the giant arena.

From the exterior balcony of the luxury suite, FortyJ could see almost all of the new city as well as much of the old town that he remembered so well. He had politely excused himself from the group to reflect on the changes his home had undergone all these years.

Finally the world had recognized what he had known in his heart all along, that Gorina, his adopted home, was one wondrous place to be. It suddenly occured to him that although Noshuret may be the center of the Fanatican empire, Gorina has always been the heart of it.

Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of his old friend Cyc sauntering up beside him. "Band too much for you old-timer?"

Smiling and turning to face his seemingly ageless friend, FortyJ paused and shrugged as if to say "Perhaps".

A few seconds later, FortyJ finally spoke. "I want very much to thank you for including me in these celebrations, old friend. It has been an extreme pleasure to witness first-hand the honor bestowed upon our fair town these past few days."

FortyJ continued, "Your stewardship has ensured the prosperity of this town. Your courage helped ensure its survival during the darkest of days. Your generosity has blessed millions of Gorinians over the years who have in turn shared their blessings with others."

"Gorina has led our nation through the early wars, through the cultural revolution and now it is poised to lead us into the heavens themselves. Gorina is what every other city in the world aspires to become."

From inside the colosseum, the music came to a stop. Turning to face the silence, we could hear the lead singer shout over the loudspeakers "Thank you Gorina! We love you!"

Smiling at each other, we slowly walked back into the suite. "You know," continued FortyJ putting his hand on his friend's shoulder, "all these secret, urgent meetings throughout these festivities kinda reminds me of a time long since past, when I was President."

The two stopped and glanced at each other. "Of course, the difference being that I was included in those meetings." FortyJ winked at his friend and the two exchanged a laugh as they stood watching the crowd slowly file out of the colosseum.

"What are you going to do now?" asked Cyc.

"I think I'll go for a walk," replied FortyJ. "It has been far too long since I last walked the streets of this town. I think it's long overdue."

As Nukeless Nucleus finished its second encore, Donovan Zoi reflected on the events that took place after his speech. Much to his surprise, Mayor Cyc wasn't disappointed at all by his inciteful words. As a matter of fact, his good friend payed him several compliments during his closing speech.

The event staging area was still brimming with Fanatica's elite. It was only after Donovan's address that he even realized that many of his good friends and acquaintances were in attendance. And it felt good to reminisce.

He traded kind words with Octavian X, as they fondly relived the days where the Doughnut Man got the best of him during his first Presidential bid. And then there was the well respected and much missed FortyJ, who recalled happily with Donovan the one night they hunted Elephant side by side until the wee hours of the morning, chasing the Great Leader windmill. He had finally gotten to meet Gladiatus, and was extremely impressed with how this man could command a room. And then there was his dear friend Shaitan, to whom Donovan felt he owed much of his success. The two men, mentor and protege, talked for what seemed like hours as they retold almost every tale that took place since young Donovan stepped into the Bank of Valhalla for the first time.

And then there were the phone calls. Mayor Cyc had motioned to his most vocal guest to join himself, Rik Meleet and Gladiatus in a conference call with the capital. After much heated debate, a suitable solution to Donovan's cause seemed to be at hand. It looked like President Bootstoots was going to lead the charge in bringing the Apollo Program to Gorina!

And so Donovan took in that last song from Gorina's most promising new band, as it was the only one he was able to enjoy all night. But the conversions and developments that took place during the last night of the Camelot Celebration were music enough to his ears.

Finally, the night was over and Donovan Zoi caught up with his good friend, Cyc.

DZ: Cyc, my friend, I am off to one of your fine hotels. In the morning I plan to head into Aureus to see if I can mend fences with that fair city. I think that in my haste to uphold Gorina, I did Aureus a grave disservice. Would you care to join me in an address to their citizens?

"Ah, DZ. Aureus, tomorrow? Hmmm. I think not. Tomorrow I will be concerned with the placement of The Camaelot Award. This one is a lot bigger than the first. I'm thinking of placing it in the courtyard of the University. Kind of an inspiration for our students, if you know what I mean.

"Also, we'll have the change over for the Wonder taking place and I should be around to help Rik Meleet.

"But be sure to congratulate Inter32 for me on achieving the UN Wonder, and if you see Governor Noldodan, tell him I think he's doing a fine job as Gov.

"I've got a seat reserved for you at lift-off, so don't spend too much time up there. Safe travels and good luck!"

Not to worry, Cyc. Knowing full well your duty to be here for the refitting of the SETI building, it was foolish of me to even ask. I will pass on your kind words to the good men in Aventine, and will make sure that I am back in time for the grand opening of the Apollo Center. Thanks once again everything, and take good care of yourself.

With that, Donovan Zoi embraced his good friend and turned toward the waiting limousine. It seems that the brass in Noshuret did not want a repeat of that incognito train stunt. Before stepping into the car, he turned back to Cyc.

Hey, by the way, I just got a hold of my office staff for the first time since I got back. They said the Persian rug you sent looks really nice in the rec room! :D I can't wait to see it. I'm sorry I didn't bring back anything from Japan. I'm sure you understand.

Donovan gave one final wave and stepped into the limo. He had really enjoyed his time in his hometown and couldn't wait to come back in a few days.

Octavian had left the parties early that night. Though he enjoyed chatting with old friends of the great days of old, he was advanced in his years, and couldn't stay up as late as he could before. He still remembered all-night sessions of negotiating trades with foreigners of all sorts.

He managed to catch up to Cyc one last time, at Gorina City Hall. In the massive interior of the grandiose old building that was once the bascillica of the ancient Faantican Forum orgininally established when the city was founded, the Camelot Award stood proudly displayed.

It was here were he informed Cyc of his plans. "I've already arranged a small, seaside cabin for my use in Regia Doughnutia." That town had been one he, as Trade Minister, established to claim spices for Fanatica. It held special significance for him. "I'm going to make one last stop to my residence in Noshuret to set my affairs there in order. Following that, my plan is to make my way to the cabin, settle down, and write a book of my Fanatican experiences."

Cyc wished him well, and Octavian left, to hopefully spend the last days of his life in seaside bliss.

The work of clearing away the festive detritus from the scene of the week's events had carried on well into the day, but was finally winding down with only a smattering of litter and a very few pieces of equipment to be taken away. As the last few workers roamed the grounds carrying out these tasks, a figure shrouded in what appeared to be the traditional garb of one of the old Fanatican patrician houses wove his way between them. Occasionally one would pause in his work to glance up at the interloper, before coming to the obvious conclusion that it was merely one of the previous night's performers come to fetch some forgotten item and, thus satisfied in his curiosity, returning to his labours.
Yet had anyone subjected the toga-clad apparition to closer scrutiny they would have noted that he - for a man it surely was - did not appear to be searching for anything but instead was heading purposefully, if perhaps a trifle unsteadily, for the plinth upon which the towering Camelot Award still rested. Upon finally reaching this destination, he reached deep into his robe and produced a small object which he proceded to place at the foot of the statue, propped up against the tip of the great knight's blade. This done, he turned upon his heel and left the same way he came towards the city gate.

Later that day, Cyc ventured out to admire, for the umpteenth time, the award which had been bestowed upon the city to which he had given his life. As he gazed, the glint of something foreign at the knight's feet caught his eye and he strolled over to take a look. On closer investigation, the offending item turned out to be a gilded envelope bearing the legend "for Cyc", written in what seemed to him a curiously familiar hand. Seeing no harm in doing so, he carefully prised the missive open and began to read the message contained within:


Dear Cyc,

It was with deep regret that I found myself unable to attend the celebrations for the dedication of this great, impressive and well deserved award. There was once a time when wild horses could not have prevented me from showing up at such a glorious event, but now I am grown old & weary and less enamoured of the crowds and excitement that are part and parcel of these affairs.

Nevertheless I cannot quite bring myself to allow the honouring of Fanatica's greatest city, within which I have in the past spent many enjoyable times, to pass unremarked. I am now so out of touch with the nation's affairs that I could not tell you with any certainty which of her fine cities now holds the enviable status of Capital, but I can still say with absolute conviction that Gorina is - and will always be - her heart, the source of her strength and her cultural epicentre. The wealth of Gorina's heritage is marvelled at by the peoples of all the foreign powers, with only a very few other metropoli able to boast a comparable history. To my eyes though, even those great and legendary conurbations fall short of the benchmark set by this city and its people. Since my retirement from public life I have travelled much and visited all these pretenders to the throne, but for all their pomp and monolithic architecture they do not have the warmth and sense of cameraderie that one finds among the Gorinans. That, I feel, is the secret of our success and the prime reason that we shall triumph over any & all adversity to lead our neighbours into the future.

Anyhow, I think that's quite enough rambling on my part. It remains only for me to say that I wish you, Gorina and all of Fanatica well, and look forward to hearing of any further great achievements of which you care to keep me appraised.

Your old comrade-in-arms,

~Eklektikos

During Sunday brunch Cyc watched Donoavn Zoi on the big screen TV of the Apollo Cafe as DZ addressed the locals on his current approach their Wonder situation. It seemed to be going well.

It had been a busy morning. Coordinating the change over of the SETI Wonder to the Apollo Program with Rik Meleet took extensive communications and planning. The transformation went off without a hitch and immediately upon completion of the small Wonder, production began on the first Spaceship part. As word spread throughout Fanaitica, other cities commenced production of varies parts, according to plan. Rik, who sat across the table from Cyc, seemed a little weary as he chomped down on his "Fanatican Rueben" sandwhich. Raising his glass to Cyc, he toasted, "To a job well done", to which his friend reciprocated.

Cyc had found time to accomplish two goals directed towards Octavian X. First he put forward a request to have the body of water off the shoreline off Regia Doughnutia restocked with all the type fish indiginess to the area. Second, he had a dozen doughnuts sent to Oct's cabin with a note that said, When I went for my check-up for the journey into space, the doctor told me that if I would only give up eating doughnuts, I would live two years longer. I said 'Doc, get serious, with my plan I get to eat doughnuts until I die, with your plan, it's just another two years without doughnuts.' - Enjoy

At the afternoon press conference, Cyc followed up Rik Meleet's report with a few words about the lift-off. He concluded, "...In the words of FortyJ, '...Gorina is now poised to lead us into the heavens themselves.' Thank you FortyJ, truer words were never spoken." He then fired off an email to the former President asking him to renew his political career, as the people needed his vision and foresight to forge ahead.

Cyc returns the message to the envelope, twirls it in his fingers and takes a moment to remember his old friend. Not only was he one of the most well-spoken gentleman of our day, but had proven his worth many times over in past governments.

He realized Eklektikos' words must be true, as the manner in which he delivered his message was telling of his sincerity. Wishing that he could have caught him red-handed in his placing of the message, Cyc returns to his laptop, to fire off an email to this old friend.

Eklektikos,
Just fair warning, I have put out an all points bulletin for a man matching your description on the charge terrorist activity. Shoot on sight were the orders...

Just kidding. Thanks for hanging around for a cup of tea. :) The awards ceremony was a blast. I'm sorry you missed it. Better luck next time. One of the major items worked out during the long celebration was the target Wonder for a forced production change. I'm not sure if you're aware of it or not because of your busy schedule, but Gorina has completed the Apollo Program instead of the SETI Program. Production is moving along swiftly on Spaceship parts and completion is drawing near. I would be honored if you would accompany our group in our journey to Alpha Centauri. A new world awaits. Let me know and I'll reserve your chair. As always, your servant,

Cyc

After the ceremonies and the personal time Rik spend with Cyc he took a long walk in the city of Gorina. It had been a while since he was able to do that. He walked his traditional routes and got lost several times; the city had filled up many open spaces that existed in the days Rik ws just deputy mayor.

Luckily many Gorinians still remembered him. The ones who knew him from his deputy time all stopped him to chat and talk with him, the younger generation knew his face from the television as Domestic Leader and nearly all had seen and heard him when he unveiled the Camelot award.

Although everyone knew the way around the city, few were eager to give directions straight away, they first wanted to congratulate him on his career, thank him for the award, question him on Domestic's view on the Space Race and what it means to the ordinary citizen and just chat with him. Although this wasn't what Rik had planned for the day (there was a meeting scheduled with his assistants and the Governors for the next TC) he felt the heartwarming feelings and attitude that was so specific about Gorinians. He decided the meeting could wait.

The Gorinians fired many questions at him and he continously found himself repeating the answers. "My friends ! I promiss you that no-one will be left behind". "Yes, even the very old citizens; they have given their sweat, blood and tears for Fanatica and Gorina; they deserve a seat". "No, the're will be no special department for our dead citizens". "Yes, small pets like cats and dogs are allowed, your pet-elephant can't come with us". "If you have registered your savings in gold with the Domestic Savings Office you will receive the same amount of valuables when we arrive on Alpha Centauri. You can't bring your gold".

He passed the place where once was the muddy Donsig-avenue and saw a beautiful boulevard with many awe-striking majestic buildings and in between beautiful Gorina houses and those tiny shops that gave this avenue it's specific homely feeling. He had a coffee in a nearby tiny cafe when he bumbed into Gladiatus, had a quick chat with the old and wrinkled, but still vivid Shaitan, greeted Eklektikos who was on his way to the Gorina-playground with his grandchildren (at least Rik interpreted the small children looking like Eklektikos and calling him Grandpa to be just that) and generally had a calm and very nice day. It's been a while since he had such a pleasant day here.

Suddenly his mobile phone went.

"Hello, this is Domestic Leader Meleet".
"Rik, come over for dinner" he heard someone say in Cyc's voice, "In the Sistine-restaurant, I expect you in an hour. Wear leisurely clothes and bring Mrs Meleet".
"We'll be there, but can you tell me where it is ? I'm kinda lost!".
"Where are you now ?" Cyc replied.
"I think this is Donsig avenue, but I'm not sure. Everything is changed a lot. I'm in front of a shop called 'Souvenirs-R-us' and across the street is a fountain shaped like the Theory of Evolution, but much smaller".
"Ok, stay there, a limo will arrive shortly. It'll take you to your hotel and in 45 minutes will take you and Mrs Meleet to the Sistine-restaurant. I'll be waiting there".
"OK, see you in an hour!".

When Rik ended the call he heard the distinctive hum of a limo-engine moving up the Donsig-avenue traffic. "I do feel hungry, still always the perfect host, my old friend Cyc !"

One Hour Later ~

As the limo pulled up in front of the restaurant, the evening sun was setting softly on the Gorina Hills. It was quite a backdrop for this part of town. As usual, when you say leisurely to Rik Meleet and wife, they hear semi-formal and dress that way. Looking prim and proper, they entered the lobby and told the maitre d' to take them to the Mayor's table. There they found Cyc with his other guest, Gladiatus.

"Welcome, you two", says Cyc as he rises to give RM a handshake and his wife a kiss and a hug. "Please, join us."

All during the lavish dinner, RM searched the eyes of Gladiatus and Cyc both for a clue as to the reason for their meeting here tonight, but to no avail. What we all got were colorful stories from Gladiatus about his youth and his school days. All in all it was a good dinner, one to mark the last week on the planet. Cyc had even talked Mrs. Meleet into ordering dessert. By this time the Domestic Minister was getting fidgety.

"So, Cyc tell me of the reason for this evening's meeting. I sense another reason than just a last supper before lift-off. Please, clue me in for heaven's sake."

Cyc looked at Gladiatus and smiled, "Well I guess I'd better tell him, before he crucifies me." Cyc turns to the couple, "It has been revealed to me that Gladiatus is a rather religious man at heart. For the seemingly life-long friendship we've had, I thought I'd give him one last earthly gift. It seems all the years he's lived here in Gorina, Gladiatus has never had an audience with the Pope, which for a man of his position and faith, should not be. Therfore, I have arranged such an audience with the Pope through a connection I have. As his Holiness will not be joining us on our trip to Alpha Centauri, the Vatican schedule was not as crowded as the rest of ours. Although the Vatican has been having security problems of late, I believe they're blaming the Babylonians, I've secured an audience for tomorrow.

"I've gotten permission to bring you both along, if you'd like to join us. You can bring Secret Service with you, but they'll have to wait in the hall. If you've got the time, it should be a memorable experience."

The couple just looked at Cyc and then at Gladiatus, who was silently nodding yes, and then back at Cyc. They seemed to have words stuck in their throats like The Pope?! and Of course. "Splendid", Cyc breaks the silence. "We can discuss the details later. Glass of wine, anyone?"

The golden gates to the Vatican compound towered before him. The moonlight overhead struck the gates in such a fashion as to give the appearance of water falling, as if the gates themselves were weaping over the looming departure of those she has protected for oh so many centuries. Although the pope himself had planned on staying behind, several cardinals and other important residents of the Vatican were heading off to the heavens along with many of the citizens of Fanatika. FortyJ had come to bid farewell.

Shrouded in his traveling coat, he approached the gates, moving gracefully over the remarkably clean street. Upon reaching the gates, he turned to look back at the nearly empty street behind him, confirming what his subconscious had already told him; the street was quite clean. Amazing how even on the verge of departure for the heavens, the city they are about to leave still shines with pride and beauty.

"You there!" came the shout from behind the gate. "Move along vermin. No loitering in front of these gates."

FortyJ turned to confront the brash guard - a new recruit by the looks of him - but before he could utter a sound, the guard continued, "You deaf buddy? I said, move along!" His tone elevating, the guard moved toward the gate assertively.

FortyJ backed away from the gate, raising his arms to reveal no weapon or harmful intent. "Friend, I have no quarrel with you, but I must gain entry, for I have business within."

"You've got no business here, bud. Do you know what time it is?" fired back the guard.

Off to the side, apparently aroused by the commotion at the gate, another guard - this one a captain - emerged from the gatehouse located just inside the main gate. "What's going on...." his voice trailed off.

The captain, whose face clearly revealed a great degree of disgust and annoyance at being dragged away from whatever had been occupying his attention, almost didn't recognize FortyJ in the darkness. Suddenly, his expression changed. "Shut up Jackson. Open that gate and don't say another word." he barked at the brash recruit.

Turning back to FortyJ, the captain quietly snapped to attention. "Apologies, my Lord. We didn't recognize you in the dark."

"No apologies necessary, Captain," responded FortyJ as he slipped through the golden gates. "My visit was most unexpected and the timing of my arrival, unfortunate."

The gate clanged shut, and Corporal Jackson turned to return to his post opposite the gate house. The Captain, as if suddenly remembering something, summoned him over. "Jackson, go wake the Quartermaster. Tell him that Sir FortyJ has returned and then provide any assistance in preparing his personal quarters. Hurry now. Go!"

Jackson shot a most quizzical look at FortyJ and then back at the captain before darting off into the distance. The Captain then turned his attention back to FortyJ. "Is there anything I can do for you while they make arrangements for your stay, my Lord?"

FortyJ smiled briefly. There really was no need to send the lad away, but FortyJ knew what the Captain was up to - keeping the kid here would only serve to embarass him - and there was no need to do that. He was probably plenty embarassed already, and if he wasn't, he probably would be once the magnitude of his error sunk in.

He responded, "No. You have already done so much, and you must attend to your duties here at the gate. I think I'll venture over to the kitchen in search of a late night snack before retiring for what little remains of this night."

Turning to leave, FortyJ mused to himself, Well, not the easiest time I've had getting in here, but certainly not the hardest either. How many more adventures will I have within this compound, he wondered.

Back at the gate house, a few young guards finally found the courage to venture outside the gatehouse. One young Lieutenant poked her head out of the window as the Captain took up Jackson's position at the gate. "Captain?" she called out. "Is that who I think it is?"

"Yes Jennings." the Captain replied. "It is. We are indeed honored by his presence." He turned his attention back to the gate.

Suddenly, the captain couldn't remember if the cook knew who FortyJ was. Did he come on board before or after FortyJ's last visit? He couldn't be sure.... He also remembered the last time the cook caught one of his recruits in the kitchen after hours.... Of course, FortyJ is no mere recruit.... The thought made him wince visibly. "Uh, Jennings.... you'd better get on the phone and call the kitchen. Tell them to expect company."

OOC: Hmm, No Stories containing Mara Jade and Me? Well, Ill try to find a way to incorporate Mara and I in.

The late night cook for the kitchen was outside smoking a cigarette when one of his assistants humbly told him that the phone was for him. He ground out his smoke and mumbled to himself as he headed for the door.

"Who could ita be ata dis hour?" the Cook said through the large mustache he sported, which made him look amazingly like Father Guido Sarducci from the famed Saturday Night Live show on FBC. He held that distinction proudly. He also held seniority over most of the Staff. He was happy in his position because of his close contacts with the higher-ups in the Vatican. The feeling was reciprocated from Cardinals on up. His name was Don, and the others light-heartly called him "the Don" of the kitchen.

The phone message simply stated that FortyJ was on the way, and to be prepared...

Don looked around his kitchen and pulled some items he knew 40J would like from past midnight visits. Fires torched, pans flew, and ingredients were mixed. They might as well call him Merlin for the alchemy he preformed. He was softly talking with himself when FortyJ came in the door. Looking up, Don put down his utensils and wiped his hands on his apron. A big smile on his face.

"I'mina tella you what...It'sa so good toa seeah you face, FortyJ. It'sa been tooa long since you havea graced my kitchen. Please, come ina my house, and have a seat. Anna tell me whatchu are ahungry for, eh?" Don and 40J have had a long, low level relationship that went deep to the matter. There was no pretense. FortyJ got hungry and Don supplied him with great food. What happened around that was pure friendship.

FortyJ returned the smile, deeply inhaling the aromas that made his mouth water. "How about the usual, Don."

"Da usual. heh? I'mina tella you what...Ita hasn't been da usual arounda here lately. Witha all dis Space ah shipa business going arounda here. Dings have ah beena preety special, ifa you know wadda mean..." Don replied, still working his craft. "Have ah you heard? The Compound isa staying behind to helpa those nota fortunate enough toa go on this trip. Can ah you imagine? Also we've ahad so-called terrorist activity ina dis area. I'mina tella you what, 40J. It'sa startin' to remind me ofa da old days..."

FortyJ could see the huge smile beneath the moustache. It was good to see his old friend again.

Edit: 190/2000

The mentioning of the terrorist activity in the area threw a sad glimpse on FortyJ's face, but his old eyes, which had seen too much got their old sparkle back. Don saw this glance and knew there was no point in speaking; FortyJ's mind was too far away, both in time and distance. Despite that Don went on babbling about the old days, but careful not to speak loudly or mention the special forces in which he was, a long time ago, a member of the unit commanded by FortyJ.

FortyJ got a small shine of a smile round his lips.

He was younger, in a swampy area near the, then still Egyptian city of Memphis, when the tension before the first Egyptian war was building up. His orders were to lead his unit of 4 to gain information on the Egyptian plans and to disrupt in secret the Egyptian war preparations. He was to hide in the swamps in daytime and strike in the night. They had just kidnapped, interrogated and killed an Egyptian clerk who worked for the Egyptian military department. The information gained was send back to Noshuret by several carrier pidgeons. The first part of the mission was accomplished.

He knew it wouldn't be long before the kidnapping of the clerk was known by all Egyptian military police and they'd be combing the woods and swamps soon. He was making up his mind whether to sneak out or stay hidden in their hideout and bide their time until they could continue the second leg of their mission; disrupting the Egyptian war-preparations.

The Clerk had given them enough information to know Fanatica would fight their first war soon and he decided that his life was less important than the mission.

He had 1 man on the lookout, 1 man was ordered to sleep and Don was making dinner; a handful of berries, a rabbit and some herbs. Usually he didn't like rabbit, but Don was a good cook. Perhaps one day, after their service time he'd start his own restaurant.

A sound of an owl made FortyJ focus immediately; it was the signal the guard would give when Egyptians were spotted. Immediately Don and FortyJ dived for the ground and he woke his 3rd man. He crawled to the guard, which pointed to the edge of the treeline. He saw about 10 elite Egyptian swordsmen and 3 warchariots slowly moving their way towards them, while carefully searching the bushes and other possible hide-outs. The terrain was not very suitable for chariots, but this could only mean 1 thing; their position was known and they were in immediate threat. He had not anticipated the Egyptians to come so soon.

FortyJ woke up from his memories suddenly when a Vatican guard stormed into the kitchen. The look on his face was one of tension and his quick breathing showed he had run.

Lord FortyJ, my name is Jones, Colonel Jones, I think you should come with me; we have unexpected guests.

FortyJ said goodbye to Don and walked with Captain Jones. He wondered who theose guests might be.

Soon Mara Jade and CivGeneral's Z-95 Headhunters soon came into Gorina and landed at the Gorina Airport.

"I have never seen this in a long time after I have left for Presidency, its good to return home" CivGeneral said. Mara Jade soon replied "Why dont we head over to the Mayor's office to see your old freind Cyc". "Good Idea, Mara my darling" CivGeneral replied "Well head over there right away".

As Mara Jade flags down a taxi, CivGeneral makes a call on his Cell phone to Cyc. Back in Cyc's house, just after reciving a call from 40J, The phone rings. One of Cyc's assistants told him it was for him. "Hello, Cyc. Long time no see. Mara and I have just arived in the Airport. Would it be alright that My wife and I stop by for a visit to catch up on old time?" CivGeneral said on the Phone. "Of course you can visit, Your other freind 40J is also here" said Cyc.
"Well, My Taxi has just arived, Ill see you later" Said CivGeneral.

A few minutes later, the taxi came up to Cyc's drive way. Mara Jade and CivGeneral exited the taxi and walked upto his doorstep.
Mara Jade knocks on the door. Soon Cyc opens the door and lets the couple in.

Cyc welcomes CivGeneral and Mara Jade in the customary fashion. He leads them to the Living Room which has a breath-taking view of a small lake through a wall made entirely of glass.

"Can I get you two anything to drink?" he asks.

"Wine for me" replies CG. "And a water for me" counters Mara Jade with a smile.

They shoot the small talk for a while and eventually drift out onto the back deck, where Cyc gives a brief history of the lake. "Which brings us to the present. Speaking of which, CG, what brings you back to Gorina at this time? Are you planning to join the others on the AC journey?"

CG just gave Cyc kind of a blank stare for a moment. "Well, nothing really. We've just come home from our trip over-seas, and decided to stop in to say hey. Hey!"

Mara Jade rolls her eyes.."Cyc we've heard about the lift-off and its new time, we were kind of wondering if you could fill us in on any of the details."

Cyc smiled as he got up and walked to his desk. "Here. I stole this pen from General Peri a while ago and he's probably still looking for it. If you two could return this for me in person, I'm sure he would give you a guided tour of Mission Control at the Gorina Space Center. The Alpha Centauri will lift off from the deserts of Noshuret, but operations will be handled from Mission Control. Maybe he will be able to find a position there for you."

"That would be great," they both said in unison. "We'll head there now and see what happens." Then they looked at each other and smiled.

As they all walked to the front door, Cyc wished them the best of luck in whatever happened. He then pulled out his cell to call Mission Control. They both seemed happy to Cyc as they pulled away in the taxi he had summoned for them a few minutes earlier.

CivGeneral said to Mara Jade "Well, I hope there would be room for our Z-95 Headhunter. Or Peri could use us to escourt the ship to AC"

"I hope they would accept our Z-95" Mara said. "They would trust me" Cyc said. CivGeneral and Mara Jade soon began to eat with there old freinds Cyc, DZ, and 40J. They soon began to catch up on old times.

"So 40J are you planning to open up the casino?" CivGeneral asked. "Not sure, but we can certanly open a new one in AC" 40J Answered.

Soon the Taxi arrives to Cyc's House to take them to the Mission Control. They soon arrive and met up with Peri.

"Ahh, good to see you all here." Peri said.

"Here is the pen Cyc borrowed from you" Said CivGeneral as he hands him the pen.

"Ahh, thanks. Oh CivGeneral and Mara Jade. I am going to give you top-possitions in Mission control. Well also load up the Z-95 Headhunter to the ship and here are your 2 tickets to the ship" Peri Said.

FortyJ nodded to his friend and patted him on the shoulder as he had so many times after such a meal. He then rose and followed Colonel James out of the kitchen into the moonlit courtyard.

The courtyard was perfectly square and completely encircled by a covered hallway. The stout, five foot wide, brick columns that seperated the hallways from the courtyard were almost completely covered with ivy.

He had been in this courtyard many times before and possibly knew it better than any of the current residents of the compound. For example, he knew that climbing the ivy would not get you onto the roof, but would alert the guards in the recessed second-story guard house. Of course, he also knew that removing just four stones from the fourth column across the way would allow a man to climb onto the roof undetected.

The slightest movement caught FortyJ's attention as he crossed from shadow to moonlight. In the shadows, off to his right, stood a man, virtually impossible to detect. In fact, if the man hadn't turned his head ever-so-slightly to see FortyJ and Colonel James enter the courtyard, FortyJ might not have detected him at all. Getting sloppy, old man, FortyJ criticized himself.

FortyJ turned his attention back to his escort "Tell me Colonel, what meeting is so important to interrupt my meal?"

"I'm not at liberty to say, sir." replied the colonel.

In his younger days, FortyJ might have slammed the young colonel to the ground and attempted to extract the information forcefully, but the years have taught him patience and that patience has saved his life on many occasions. Also, he was safe inside the walls of the Vatican. What could possibly happen here?

The colonel veered to the right and continued across the courtyard. FortyJ followed, recognizing that their current path would take them dangerously close to the stranger he had just recently detected.

As they drew near, FortyJ searched the back of his escort desperately for some sign of betrayal, some indication of what the colonel had in mind for him. From his viewpoint in the courtyard, FortyJ could no longer make out the mysterious man in the shadows. He couldn't even be certain that the man was still there.

Then, at long last, they crossed back into the shadows of the hallway and out of the moonlight. The mysterious man was still there, leaning against the wall, nearly invisible in the dark recesses of the hallway.

"Hello, old friend" came the familiar voice.

FortyJ turned to face the voice from the darkness, struggling desperately to put a face with it. He could hear Colonel James continue on his way, his task complete.

"What's the matter, old man? Don't you recognize your own protégé?" chided the voice from the darkness.

FortyJ knew that voice. It was as familiar to him as if it were his own. Finally, he relaxed and stepped forward, clasping the now outstretched arm of Gladiatus.

"You know very well, that your skills far exceeded mine long ago." responded FortyJ embracing his long-time brother in arms. Both men knew this to be true, but Gladiatus was too honorable to say so publicly and FortyJ appreciated that.

FortyJ had always possessed a keen eye and an innate ability to develop talent, but it didn't take much to spot the potential of Gladiatus even as a young lad. Over the years, he tutored him and advised him, sometimes from afar as his duties often required him to be elsewhere, but it wasn't long before FortyJ found himself learning from his own student. FortyJ was not surprised when Gladiatus was finally brought into the Order of the Golden Spur, an honor bestowed on only a handful of warriors in the service of the Pope.

They stood together in the darkness like they had so many times before, in so many different places.

"I saw your entrance." kidded Gladiatus. "You should've knocked that novice on his duff."

"And miss the opportunity to see the look on his face when he realized who I was? Never." FortyJ smiled back. "How long have you been here?"

Gladiatus paused, and reluctantly admitted "I just convinced Mayor Cyc to bring me here on the pretext of a papal visit about a day before you got here. Once I learned from my network of informants that you were heading this way, I simply arranged for an invitation from the Pope to stick around for a day or so. I really never liked keeping my life in the Order a secret from Cyc. He's been practically a brother to me all these years."

"We all serve in our own ways, young Gladiatus" FortyJ reassured him. He was almost surprised by how quickly he had just fallen back into the role of mentor in the presence of his one time student.

Gladiatus smiled, and simply replied, "Indeed." Then, as if returning from thoughts far away, he started "My friend, I know that you have come to talk and report to our Holy Father, but I have just come from him this afternoon and he has directed me to find you and solicit your assistance in an endeavor of utmost importance."

"You see," continued Gladiatus, "there's trouble brewing and it's directed at the impending launch of our spaceship bound for Alpha Centauri."

FortyJ listened intently as Gladiatus continued. "We've just learned that the Babylonians intend to sabotage the launching of our space ship and we've got to stop them. Gather your belongings and meet me at the back gate in one hour. We leave for Noshuret before sunrise."

Gladiatus, looked over his shoulder, then back to FortyJ. He patted his one time mentor on the shoulder and abruptly walked away, gliding over the cobblestone courtyard with feline grace.

FortyJ followed his friend as he vanished from sight into the shadows across the way and returned his attention to the matter at hand. His informants had also alerted him of a potential plot against the space ship project, but the details were unclear.

He remembered the last mission that he and Gladiatus worked together. He also remembered how horribly wrong things went when an unexpected new employee walked in on their team at the worst possible moment. Fortunately, the mission was still a success, but if not for Gladiatus, FortyJ would have been killed that night.

FortyJ turned and headed to his quarters to prepare for his journey. He only hoped that this mission would go better than the last.

Don was just finishing the cleanup from FortyJ's meal (he had sent his assistant to lunch), when a large grey suit appeared in the doorway.

"Saints ah be praised, ah looka who we got ahere." Don wipes his hands with his apron in an unconscious, professional sign of respect. "Please, come ona in anda let me fix you something to eat. What can ah getchu, Gladiatus?"

Gladiatus beamed back his executive smile, "I'd like to order the special."

Don's eyebrows rose as his eyes darted in the direction of Gladiatus. "Maybe, you'd acare to steppa inna my office? I'm justa drawin' up a new menu", he says bringing his forefinger together with his thumb in a slight kissing gesture. "It'sa soo good!" he says in a lowered voice.

Inside the Kitchen Office, Don closes the door and turns up the small radio playing the organ music of JS Bach, and diverts all his attention to Gladiatus.

In a soft voice, Gladiatus brings Don back on line for another job. A recruitment out of semi-retirement, if you will. Don shifts weight to his other foot as he listens intently. Gladiatus finishes up with "...Here's your communication device. All the proper channels have been opened, it should be a walk in the park. I need to know of anyone whose breathing our air around that launchsite. Don't expose yourself unless necessary. Your codename is Guido." This brought a restrained smile to the face of both men. "I'll expect a full report before the crack of dawn. Full equipment allocation authorized."

"Yes, sir", was all that was required from Don. After quickly scanning the walls of the decorated office, Gladiatus turned and left.

Don watched him leave and as soon as he entered the courtyard, Don slapped his hands together. "Yes," he said, reaching for a smoke. "We're ah back ina da Big Time, fo sho."

It had been a long time since he was sent on a recon mission. A full equipment allocation meant he needed to get the Hummer loaded up and hit the road. He would leave a message for his assistant that it was not to appear that he had left early.

Today is launch day. Don had been present in his lookout point, hidden under the branches and leaves of tree far older than he is. If he wasn't so focussed on checking the entances to the launch site he'd have time to realise that these trees were just small shrubs the first settlers created Noshuret some 100 miles away.

From a distance he saw clearly the Majestic SpaceShip and saw a steady line of citizens moving towards the entrance tower; a tower which was nearly as big as the SpaceShip and if the SpaceShip wasn't the dominant factor in the landscape the tower would have been considered a world wonder in its own regard.

His old but observant eyes stayed focus on the 3 passages through the woods to the launch site. He had decided he was too old to fly off to space; he would pay Fanatica the last honor; a safe passage.

3 times already his hand has moved to the comm-device but until then the alarm was false. The first time a rabbit crossed the fields. The second time a young couple chose that site for the last amorous time they had on their planet and the third time it was just the increasing winds who moved the branches of the trees in such a way it was nearly human like.

The last time that happened was over 30 minutes ago. Don noticed he was getting old and he still detested waiting. His old bones started hurting, but that was no reason for him to loosen his guard.

Suddenly he saw 3 men, dressed entirely in black move cautiously along the bushes across the field. He held his breath as he immediatley realised these guys were up to no good. His training had taught him to be sure first, before raising the alarm. He moved in.

He heard the first man, clearly the leader, whisper to his followers: "atag la ista fanatica space-hitatra, qulle asso la bombs?". Although he didn't know Babylonian his training was extensive enough to realise the men were talking that language. He pressed the little button on his comm device, sending out the signal to the hidden swat-team. He immediately heard 40J's voice in his earplug saying: "What is going on?". His small, but high quality microphone picked up his, nearly inaudible whisper: "3 Babs, in sector 34 B". "Understood" was the only response he got but it was sufficient. He knew that over 30 highly trained special forces were hurried in to first surround the invaders and then 'get rid of them'. He stayed in his position, rechecking the area for more intruders as he was taught. But he was 1 second too slow. He suddenly felt a hard bang on his head and a splitting headache. Only his experience allowed him to grab his gun with his right hand and pressing the button on his comm device with his left hand when he fell down. He managed to turn around in his fainting fall and shoot his rifle, hitting 2 men who were behind him in the fall.

FortyJ heard the shooting, both through his comm device and through the air. He knew something had happened to Don, but he also knew there were more than 3 intruders. His only advantage over them was that he knew this, but the intruders did not know he knew. He called in the extra forces; over 3000 men. They weren't trained in the way the special forces were, but they still were seasoned veterans. Their numbers and their determination alone would secure the fight, now the enemy was located, but it would be a hard fight.

FortyJ wept as he send in the forces, because of the men who would need to give up their lives in the last day Fanatica shared this planet, and for Don. 40J knew that he would have killed a man like Don if such a man fell into his hands, so he knew Don would be dead by now.

The surprise attack by the Baylonians failed; there were over 50 Babs dead and 23 Fanaticans, including Don. The danger to the launching was averted and although this pleased 40J, his grieve over his old friend got the upper hand. He started bursting into tears.

Gladiatus knew the anguish his old war-comrade was going through. He said nothing, but walked to him. 40J looked up. One glance into their eyes and these men knew enough. Don died the way he could only die, a hero in a won fight.

Although this didn't take away the black feeling 40J felt in his heart, it did create one understanding. Don gave up his life for the greater glory of Fanatica in a way he would have wanted to. When 40J realised this he felt, besides sorrow, peace in his heart. Together with Gladiatus he walked to the SpaceShip, ready to board. In the corner of his eye he saw Rik and Cyc standing there looking very surprised to see 40J and Gladiatus walking in such a way that couldn't hide their shared history. Neither Rik, nor Cyc knew this. They shared a glance and many questions rose in their heads. They knew this wasn't the time to ask them to either 40J nor Gladiatus on the histry. Perhaps a later time would be better suited.

taken from the book Exposing the Myths of Papal Politics by T. Hunter Fawl

Officially, the Vatican is an independent, international entity impervious to influence from the secular states. They have their own military as well as their own system of laws. Although the Vatican itself is located within the city limits of Gorina, deep inside the borders of Fanatica, the land within the walls of the Vatican is Papal land, not Fanatican.

However, from a practical point of view, and in the interest of self-preservation, the vatican dares not offend the nation that surrounds its home. The reality of the situation is that the Vatican relies heavily on Fanatica for protection and because of its location within Fanatica, a majority of its citizens are Fanatican immigrants.

Militarily speaking, many of the soldiers in their "independent" army are also former Fanatican citizens. This is particularly true in the higher echelons of their military and the elite forces that specialize in intelligence gathering. Even the mysterious Knights in the fabled Order of Christ and order of the Golden Spur are rumored to be as much as 50% Fanatican. Of course, nobody knows for sure if these Orders even exist because their memberships are not made public, but it seems to reason that if they do exist, the consistency of their memberships would be similar to that of their standard military forces.


Prologue

Sir Gregory Dax knelt over Don's lifeless body. His left hand was pressed firmly against Don's neck, checking futiley for a pulse as he holstered his pistol with his right. His purpose was to protect life, and it often sickened him when his duties forced him to take that which he had sworn to protect.

The strike team had been eradicated and the Space Launch would proceed as planned later that day. They had succeeded in their mission, but at such a terrible price. The occasional bursts of semi-automatic machine gun fire could be heard in the distance as the Fanatican army continued to sweep the field for potential threats. Convincing the Fanatican heirarchy to relinquish responsibility for the security of the launch to FortyJ and Gladiatus meant revealing their involvement in and the existence of one of the Vatican's most secret agencies. Fortunately, the Knights of the Order of the Golden Spur had worked secretly with the Fanatican Intelligence Agency in the past so the additional exposure from this mission was minimal.

In response, the Fanatican government not only allocated two full teams of agents from their intelligence agency, they also committed 3000 elite forces, highly trained in camoflauge and counter-terrorism tactics. If the intelligence reports had been more accurate, the mission would have been equally successful, but without the terrible loss of life.

Dax could see the silhouettes of both FortyJ and Gladiatus approaching from the distance and knowing the attachment both men felt for Don, he instantly rose and walked briskly in their direction in a vain attempt to shield them from the sight of their friend and fellow soldier. One glance from FortyJ told Dax all he needed to know. They would not be denied a last farewell to their fallen companion.

FortyJ stopped and knelt down over the body of his friend. From where Dax was standing, it seemed that he was muttering something, but he could not hear what it was. Finally, FortyJ reached into Don's jacket and ripped his undershirt revealing a small pendant known only to a handful of people in the world.

In one quick motion, FortyJ tugged at the chain around Don's neck, breaking the pendant free. With a grace that belied his age, FortyJ rose and wheeled in Dax's direction, extending his arm. "Take this to Cardinal Flanders in the Vatican. Tell him that Lord Don has fallen in battle. He'll know what to do. Also, Lord Gladiatus and I are needed at the launch site, so please see to it that Lord Don's body is returned to the Vatican with all the dignity deserving of a Knight of the Order of Christ."

Dax stood there, stunned in disbelief. Saluting, he struggled to find the words "Aye, sir. May God bless you and speed you on your journey."

As if on cue, a standard issue jeep pulled up and skidded to a stop in the dusty field. FortyJ and Gladiatus climbed in and the jeep was gone from sight almost as quickly as it had arrived. Gregory Dax clicked the button on his radio and called for a helicopter to evacuate the body of one of the Vatican's highest ranking soldiers.

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So, anyone mind if I bring this to a stunning end? I'll delete this if others want to join me in my small hut down in Regia Doughnutia... :D

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The day the great Fanatican spaceship left Earth was the turning point for all the world. Even as she was being built, the once majestic societies of the planet were crumbling. Governments waged futile wars, terrorism and nuclear aremegeddon were everyday threats, all while the looming threats of ever-growing domestic problems grew by each passing day.

In a way, the Fanatican spaceship, and those of the other nations of the world which were launched subsequently, were an attempt by humanity at an unreachable eternal apotheosis. They were built so that man could leave the terrestial Eden that he had destroyed through his technology, that he may, in a way, live forever, unimpeded by the limitations of caring for a dying planet.

Some of the great spaceships built for this exodus were built as an attempt by the great dictators who would arise on other parts of the Earth, far removed from Gorina, to hold power, by impressing their citizenry, causing them, through nationalistic fevor, to continue their toil for a government that had all but enslaved them.

Still others were built for the large corperations of the Earth, an attempt by the rich to find new frontiers for exploiting for their wealth.

Whatever the reason, this mass exodus of humanity continued until it was all over. The old ones who chose to stay died naturally on old Mother Earth. The once-great cities and wonders of old,and the majestic instituions and socities, all crumbled. The Earth reclaimed the cities, reclaimed the pollunted areas, and naturally renewed herself, becoming the Eden she once had been.

As for the intergalatic settlers, their fortunes faired worse. Not all made it, and as such died in their metal coffins. Those who did found themselves on an unfamiliar planet, one without the traditions and instutions they had once known. The Fanatican settlers, first to make planetfall, would still face the immense challenges that they thought they had left on old Earth. The destiny of this generation remains to be revealed by time...

People of Gorina, as your Mayor, I would like to take this opportunity to post the final screenshots for our great city. The first two pertain directly to the city - the bird's eye view and the city stats ~

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/BEGinaendgame.jpg
http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/Gorinaendgame.jpg

The final screenshot is the Domestic Advisor's Screen. This shows Gorina's number one spot in Happy/Content Citizens for the nation of Fanatica ~

http://www.civfanatics.net/uploads5/Domsreenendgame.jpg

This post is not to announce the closing of the Gorina City thread, I'm just completing the last duties of the Mayor's Office. :D

Cyc