Thalass - The Seaside Nation

1E 0000T: The first humans arrive on what will become Thalass

1E 0042T: The first settlements are established along the coast

1E 0217T: The Thalassian language begins to develop

1E 0673T: The first recorded instance of shipbuilding in Thalass

1E 0825T: Thalassians begin to develop advanced navigation techniques using the stars and ocean currents

1E 0932T: The first known trade agreements are established between Thalass and neighboring nations

1E 1125T: The Tidal Regent is established as the highest governing authority in Thalass

1E 1178T: Thalass and Valtor engage in a trade dispute that nearly leads to war

1E 1264T: The Thalassian Council is established as a more democratic form of government

1E 1432T: Thalassian merchants establish trade routes with Lyrr and other distant nations

1E 1599T: The Great Flood devastates much of Thalass, leading to widespread famine and disease

1E 1615T: Thalass experiences a period of rapid growth and prosperity as it rebuilds following the Great Flood

1E 1787T: Thalass and Arvan engage in a conflict over fishing rights that is eventually resolved through diplomatic negotiations

1E 1936T: Thalass becomes a leading center for shipbuilding and naval technology in the galaxy

1E 2000T: Thalass enters its second Epoch

2E 0092T: Thalassian scientists discover new sustainable fishing methods, leading to an increase in fish populations

2E 0453T: Thalassian explorers discover new trade routes and establish diplomatic ties with previously unknown nations

2E 0824T: Thalassian artists and musicians create a new style of music and dance that incorporates elements of their seafaring heritage

2E 0967T: Thalassian explorers reach the furthest reaches of the southern sea and begin mapping the uncharted waters. The discovery of new species of marine life brings a renewed interest in Thalassian marine biology and sparks a wave of scientific research.

2E 1099T: Thalassians embrace a new religion centered around the belief that the ocean is a living entity

2E 1167T: The Thalassian Council is restructured to become more inclusive and representative of the population

2E 1352T: Thalassian engineers develop new technologies that allow for deeper exploration of the ocean's depths

2E 1575T: Jaxon Seabreeze is the current Regent of the Sea and Thalass continues to thrive as a prosperous and influential nation.

The flag features a horizontal tricolor of blue, green, and white, with the blue band at the top, green in the middle, and white at the bottom. In the center of the flag is a string of six pearls in a straight line, representing the six major coastal cities of Thalass.

The blue band represents the ocean and the importance of seafaring in Thalassian culture. The green band represents the lush vegetation and fertile land of Thalass, as well as the importance of agriculture and natural resources to the nation. The white band represents peace, purity, and unity, reflecting the harmonious and cooperative nature of Thalassian society.

The six pearls in the center of the flag represent the six major coastal cities, and are arranged in a straight line to symbolize the unity and cohesion of Thalassian society. The pearls also represent the wealth and prosperity of the nation, both in terms of the natural resources found in the ocean and on the land, as well as the vibrant economy and bustling trade of Thalass's coastal cities.

Overall, the flag of Thalass is a simple and elegant design that captures the essence of the nation's natural beauty, cultural diversity, and economic prosperity.

The Anthem of Thalass - "Land of the Sea"

Oh Thalass, our land so fair,
Where pearl-lit waves embrace the air,
From highland peak to ocean blue,
A light for Estra, for me and you.
With fertile fields and cities grand,
And mighty ships beyond the land,
For Thalass, our home, the Land of the Sea.
For Thalass, our land of liberty.
Through trials great and victories won,
Our love for Thalass never done,
With every beat of our heart's thrum,
We sing our anthem, united as one.

Chorus:

Oh Thalass, our home so true,
With strength and pride, we stand for you,
From coastal shores to mountain view,
Our hearts forever stay with you.

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Thalass is known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene. The coastal nation is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues, which attract both local and international talent. The arts are highly valued in Thalass, and the government provides funding to support the arts and cultural institutions.

Thalass is also renowned for its traditional music and dance. Many festivals and celebrations throughout the year feature live music performances, with musicians playing traditional instruments such as the fiddle, accordion, and bodhran. Dancing is also an important part of Thalassian culture, with many dances being performed in pairs or groups and often incorporating intricate footwork.

In addition to traditional arts, Thalass is also home to a thriving contemporary arts scene. Many young artists and designers are based in the major cities, creating works in a variety of mediums including painting, sculpture, and digital media. Fashion design is also a growing industry, with many up-and-coming designers showcasing their work at fashion shows and events throughout the year.

Finally, Thalass is home to a variety of sports and recreational activities, including surfing, sailing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The nation's beautiful beaches and clear waters make it a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy water-based activities. 

Filmmaking and television in Thalass

In Thalass, the film industry is relatively new but rapidly growing. Many local filmmakers and production companies have emerged in recent years, and Thalassian films have gained recognition and acclaim at international film festivals. The government has also been supporting the development of the industry by offering various grants and tax incentives to encourage more film productions in Thalass.

Television in Thalass is also popular, with a mix of locally-produced and imported programming from Arvan. There are several national television networks that produce news, sports, dramas, and variety shows. In recent years, streaming services have also become popular, and many Thalassians subscribe to international streaming platforms to access a wider range of content.

The Thalassian government has also been investing in digital media and entertainment, with the establishment of a national digital creative hub to support the growth of the industry. This hub provides resources and infrastructure to support the development of video games, animation, virtual reality, and other forms of digital media.

Living Sea Worship

Living Sea Worship is a religion that is based on the belief that the sea is alive and deserves to be worshipped and respected. It is primarily practiced in the nation of Thalass, which is a coastal nation with a strong seafaring tradition and a thriving maritime industry.  However, despite the fact that a majority of Thalassians profess a belief in the religion, very few are active practitioners of the faith.

Living Sea Sects

Living Sea Worship is organized into three main sects, each with its own area of emphasis:

1. Tidepool Sect: This sect places a strong emphasis on the movement of the sea, including the currents, tides, and waves. They believe that the sea is alive and that its movements are a reflection of its spiritual essence.

2. Whalesong Sect: This sect focuses on the creatures of the sea, including whales, dolphins, and other marine life. They believe that these creatures are sacred and that their presence in the sea is a sign of the sea's spiritual power.

3. Reef Sect: This sect emphasizes the importance of the plants and other organisms that give life to the sea, such as coral reefs and kelp forests. They believe that these organisms are essential to the sea's vitality and that their health and well-being are crucial to the spiritual health of the sea.

While all three sects agree on the fundamental belief that the sea is alive, their different areas of emphasis suggest that there may be differences in the way that they practice and interpret their faith. For example, the Tidepool Sect places more importance on movement and change, while the Reef Sect places more importance on stability and balance. Similarly, the Whalesong Sect views the sea as a place of great mystery and wonder, while the Tidepool Sect views it as a place of constant flux and transformation. The different sects also have different rituals, practices, and beliefs that reflect their particular area of emphasis. For example, the Whalesong Sect has special ceremonies to honor whales and dolphins, while the Reef Sect has rituals to celebrate the growth and renewal of coral reefs.

Overall, the three sects of Living Sea Worship seem to offer a rich and diverse set of beliefs and practices that reflect the complexity and diversity of the sea itself.

Living Sea Temples are the places of worship for the followers of Living Sea Worship. These temples incorporate elements of the sea and ocean, such as seashells, driftwood, and marine-themed decor. They are designed to facilitate a deep spiritual connection to the sea, and some may even be located on boats or in underwater environments. Living Sea Temples typically have a centralized altar that is used for offerings and other rituals. Followers of Living Sea Worship may also engage in various forms of meditation and prayer, as well as perform music and dance that is inspired by the sea.

Living Sea Tenets

Living Sea Worship also has five fundamental tenets:

1. The sea is a living entity with its own spirit and consciousness. Living Sea Worship holds that the sea is not just a physical body of water but a spiritual force that deserves respect and reverence.

2. Human beings are part of a larger ecosystem that includes the sea and all its creatures. Living Sea Worship emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of living in harmony with the natural world.

3. The sea is a source of abundance and sustenance. Living Sea Worship recognizes the importance of the sea as a source of food, water, and resources, and emphasizes the need to use these resources responsibly and sustainably.

4. Rituals and ceremonies are an important part of connecting with the spiritual essence of the sea. Living Sea Worship may include practices such as prayer, meditation, and offerings to honor and connect with the sea's spirit.

5. Environmental stewardship is a central tenet of Living Sea Worship. This may involve actively working to protect marine ecosystems, reducing pollution and waste, and promoting sustainable practices in all aspects of life.

In Thalass, the news and journalism industry is diverse and competitive, with several major news outlets vying for the attention of the public. These outlets cover a wide range of topics, from local news and politics to international events and cultural happenings.

One of the most prominent news outlets in Thalass is the Thalassian Broadcasting Corporation (TBC), which operates several television and radio channels that cover news, sports, and entertainment. TBC is owned by the government and is often seen as reflecting the official views of the ruling party.

However, there are also several privately owned news outlets, such as The Coastal Times and The Thalassian Tribune, which provide alternative perspectives and compete with TBC for viewership and readership. These outlets often take a more critical stance towards the government and provide investigative reporting on issues of public interest.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards online news and citizen journalism, with many Thalassians turning to social media and blogs for news and analysis. While these platforms are less regulated than traditional media outlets, they provide a space for alternative voices and perspectives to be heard.

Overall, the news and journalism industry in Thalass is vibrant and varied, reflecting the country's commitment to freedom of expression and the press.

The Major Press Outlets of Thalass

• Thalass Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) - The national broadcaster of Thalass, TBC operates several television and radio stations across the country. It is known for its impartial reporting and is widely regarded as the most trusted news source in Thalass.

• Thalass Times - One of the oldest and most respected newspapers in Thalass, Thalass Times covers both national and international news. It has a reputation for investigative journalism and is known for its in-depth reporting.

• Oceanic News Network (ONN) - ONN is a privately-owned news network that specializes in oceanic news. It covers everything from marine life to ocean conservation efforts and is popular among environmentalists.

• Thalass Today - A popular online news outlet, Thalass Today covers a wide range of topics including politics, business, entertainment, and sports. It is known for its fast and accurate reporting.

• The Prog Post - The official newspaper of the Forward Motion Party, The Prog Post focuses on progressive issues and is known for its opinion pieces.

• The Independent - A relatively new newspaper, The Independent is owned and operated by the Independent Thalass Party. It covers a range of topics but is known for its critical coverage of the government and establishment.

The Relationships between Political Parties and the Press

Here's a brief overview of the relationship each political party in Thalass has with the press:

• Oceanic Heritage Party (Traditionalists): The Oceanic Heritage Party is generally suspicious of the press, particularly those outlets that are critical of their policies or beliefs. They tend to prefer conservative or pro-tradition media sources that share their views and values. They may be more likely to use the media for propaganda purposes than for genuine public communication or debate.

• Forward Motion Party (Progressives): The Forward Motion Party generally values a free press and open dialogue with the media. They may be more willing to engage with a variety of media outlets, both mainstream and alternative, to get their message across. However, they may also be critical of media outlets that they see as biased or sensationalist.

• Independent Thalass Party (Isolationists): The Independent Thalass Party tends to be distrustful of the mainstream media and may seek out alternative sources of information. They may be more likely to use social media or other online platforms to communicate their views and to connect with their supporters. They may view the press with suspicion and be hesitant to engage with them directly.

• Galactic Unity Party (Internationalists): The Galactic Unity Party is generally supportive of the press and values transparency and open communication with the media. They may be more willing to engage with international media outlets and to promote Thalass on the global stage. However, they may also be cautious about the way the media portrays Thalass and its policies on the international stage.

• Blue Planet Party (Environmentalists): The Blue Planet Party values a free press and may be more likely to work with environmental or science-based media outlets to promote their views and policies. They may be critical of media outlets that downplay or ignore environmental issues, and they may be more likely to use social media to mobilize their supporters and spread their message.

Overall, the relationship between the political parties and the press in Thalass is complex and dynamic, with each party having its own preferences, biases, and strategic priorities when it comes to engaging with the media.

Jaxon Seabreeze and the Freedom of the Press

Under Jaxon's leadership, the council has placed a strong emphasis on press freedom and transparency. Jaxon believes that a free and open press is essential to a healthy democracy, and has pushed for policies that protect the rights of journalists to report the news without fear of retaliation. He has also advocated for greater transparency in government, and has worked to make council proceedings and decisions more accessible to the public.

If Jaxon were to lose his position as Chair of the Council, there could be a risk to press freedom and transparency in Thalass. Some members of the Oceanic Heritage Party, in particular, have been known to be critical of the press and to favor tighter controls on media coverage. Without Jaxon's leadership, there could be a risk that the council would adopt policies that restrict the freedom of journalists to report on the government and other important issues.

On the other hand, the Forward Motion Party and the Blue Planet Party are generally supportive of press freedom and transparency, and would likely continue to push for policies that protect the rights of journalists. The Independent Thalass Party and the Oceanic Heritage Party have not been as vocal on this issue, and it is unclear where they would fall on the issue of press freedom.

The Galactic Unity Party has been very vocal about their support for press freedom in Thalass. They have made it a central issue in their platform, believing that a free and independent press is essential for a healthy democracy. They believe that the media should be allowed to report on government activities without fear of retribution or censorship.

The party has also expressed concern about attempts by the other political parties to control the media. They believe that the media should be independent and free from political influence. They have been critical of the Oceanic Heritage Party's attempts to restrict press freedom and have accused them of trying to control the narrative in Thalass.

The Forward Motion Party has also expressed support for press freedom, but they have not made it as central an issue in their platform as the Galactic Unity Party. They have, however, been critical of attempts by the other parties to restrict press freedom.

The Independent Thalass Party has not expressed a clear position on press freedom. Some members of the party have expressed support for a free press, while others have been critical of what they see as biased reporting in the media.

The Blue Planet Party has also expressed support for a free press, but they have focused more on environmental issues in their platform.

Overall, Jaxon and the Galactic Unity Party are seen as the strongest advocates for press freedom in Thalass.

Raidwater is a team sport that involves two teams of seven players each. The objective of the game is to score points by touching the opponents' players and returning to the home court without getting caught by the defenders.

The game is played on a rectangular pool with dimensions of 12 meters by 10 meters. Each team has a court and they take turns sending one player, called the "raider", into the opponent's court. The raider's goal is to touch as many opposing players as possible and return to his or her own court without getting tackled or caught.

The defenders try to tackle the raider by grabbing and holding on to the raider's body. If the raider manages to touch an opposing player and return safely to his or her side, their team earns a point.

The game is played with a high-tech twist where players wear special suits that track their movements and scores are automatically updated on a scoreboard. The suits also have sensors that detect when a player has been touched or tackled, ensuring fair play.

Raidwater is a fast-paced and exciting game that requires strength, agility, and quick thinking. It is popular among Thalassians of all ages and is often played at the beaches or in stadiums across the country.

The Rules of Raidwater

• The game is played in a large pool or open water, divided into two halves by a central line.

• Each team has seven players, who take turns sending a "raider" into the opposing team's half.

• The raider's goal is to tag as many players on the opposing team as possible before returning to their own half, while holding their breath and staying underwater the entire time. If the raider breaks the surface of the water or fails to make it back to their own half, they are considered out.

• The opposing team tries to prevent the raider from tagging their players by tackling them underwater. The defenders can only tackle the raider while holding their own breath and staying underwater.

• If a defender successfully tackles the raider, the raider is out and the defending team earns a point.

• If the raider successfully tags one or more defenders and makes it back to their own half without breaking the surface of the water, their team earns a point for each defender tagged.

• The game is played for a set period of time, and the team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

The positions in Raidwater are Raider, Defender, and Spotter.

• The Raider is responsible for tagging as many opponents as possible and returning to their own half of the pool or open water without getting tackled or caught by the defenders.

• The Defenders are responsible for tackling the opposing team's Raider to prevent them from scoring points

• The Spotter provides support and guidance to the Raider during their attack. The Spotter also helps to identify the opposing team's Raider and communicate this information to their own team.

Raidwater Leagues

In Thalass, there are two leagues of Raidwater: the Professional League and the Inland League. The Professional League is the top tier of the sport, featuring the most skilled and experienced players from across the nation. The league is played in open water, with matches held in rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water across Thalass. The players in this league are highly trained and well-equipped, with the latest high-tech suits and equipment to help them succeed.

The Professional League is widely considered to be the most challenging and competitive league in the sport, with players constantly pushing the limits of what is possible in terms of speed, agility, and strategy.  Meanwhile, the Inland League is a secondary league that is designed for players who are still developing their skills or who prefer to play in a more controlled environment. The Inland League is played in pools, with matches held in indoor or outdoor facilities across Thalass. The players in this league are typically less experienced and use less advanced equipment, making it a more accessible and beginner-friendly league. Despite its lower status, the Inland League is still highly competitive and features some skilled and passionate players who take the sport seriously.

Overall, these two leagues provide a range of opportunities for Thalassians to enjoy the sport of Raidwater, whether they are seasoned professionals or just starting out.

Raidwater Pro Teams

• Seabridge Sharks - Seabridge

• Coralhaven Dolphins - Coralhaven

• Saltwater Stingrays - Saltwater

• Pearl Bay Whales - Pearl Bay

• Oceanview Orcas - Oceanview

• Seashell Sea Turtles - Seashell

• Coral Coves - Coralhaven

• Saltwater Squid - Saltwater

• Pearl Power - Pearl Bay

• Ocean Warriors - Oceanview

• Seafoam - Seashell

• Pearl Bay Pirates - Pearl Bay