Stormwrath

The Intergalactic Empire of Stormwrath
The Intergalactic Empire of Stormwrath Imperium Galaxiae Stormvrathia
	Motto: Nolite futuris timere, nolite praeteritis lacrimare (Elumbish); "Fear not for the future, weep not for the past" (English)
	Anthem: Song of the Maelstrom
Capital; and largest city	Tidal City
Official languages	None at federal level
Recognised national languages	English, Elumbish, Ashiro, Cliffordian, Texurican, Palmarian
Demonym	Stormwrathian
Government	Unitary Constitutional Monarchy
Legislature	Parliament
Independence from Elumbish Islands
Area
Population
GDP (nominal)	2013 estimate
HDI (2013)	0.936; very high
Currency	Royale (R$)
Time zone	Western Tervalia Standard Time (UTC+0)
Date format	dd/mm/yyyy
Drives on the	right
Calling code	+25
ISO 3166 code	SE
Internet TLD	.st .se .mil .edu

This page is a work in progress by its author(s) and should not be considered final.

The Intergalactic Empire of Stormwrath, known as Stormwrath (pronounced stɔrmræθ), is a large intergalactic empire in the NationStates multiverse. Stormwrath's home planet is Zero, and it is bordered on the north by the Montalia Sea, on the south by Carenina, on the east by Solatana and on the west by The Great Zeronian Ocean. Stormwrath has an estimated population of 61 billion spread throughout the cosmos. Stormwrath comprises of 55 States and 5 Territories in its homeworld, along with 52 entire star clusters and 247 sectors located in four galaxies, and its capital city is Tidal City.

Stormwrath's form of government is a Constitutional Monarchy with a parliamentary system. The Intergalactic Empire of Stormwrath was founded in 1440, after the Stormwrathians won independence from the Elumbish Islands. It was once called "The Sick Man of Zero" due to a very devastating economic downturn, but after a Treaty of Amity was signed with Altaro in 1472, the country began to bounce back, turning the nation into a mercantile country. The Industrial Revolution that came to Stormwrath in 1496 turned the nation into a capitalist country. The trade with Altaro also brought technology to the nation, contributing to its rapid progress. It also has very strong relations with other human nations, especially with the members of the Tervalian Union.

Today, Stormwrath is the most economically developed and technologically advanced human nation, and one of the most influential. It is the most developed country and has Zero's largest economy. The Stormwrathian economy has been so strong that the Royale is known to be quite stable. Being a borderline Type III civilization, Stormwrath is the current superpower of its home planet.

Stormwrath currently has the largest armed forces and the largest military expenditure in Zero, and is the leading player in space exploration & colonization and scientific advancement. Stormwrath, compared to Earth, would be described as a "Scandinavian Liberal Capitalist Welfare State".

Etymology

Stormwrath was always affected by monsoons, being close to the equator. When the Cliffordians arrived in the land, they were afflicted by severe thunderstorms. They decided to call it "The Land of the Storm's Wrath". Eventually, they shortened the name to "Storm's Wrath", then finally shortened it further to the current name, Stormwrath. However, the Cliffordians produced the first maps of Stormwrath read as Palmaria; it appears in the city and state of the same name.

The first mention of the land "Stormwrath" in maps was in 1196, alongside maps with the name Palmaria. The two names have been used interchangeably until the War of Stormwrathian Independence, when Stormwrath referred to the western half while Palmaria referred to the eastern half. After the Act of Union in 1620, the country's official name was "The Dual Empires of Stormwrath and Palmaria", and this name was used until 1754, when Empress Lorraine made a decree to call the entire nation "The Empire of Stormwrath".

After the civil war, new colloquial terms have been invented: "Red Stormwrath" to refer to Perpinia and their communist government, and "Blue Stormwrath" to refer to the mainland and the Stormwrathian Blue used by the Imperial House of Stormraven. Nowadays, the usage of "Red Stormwrath" and "Blue Stormwrath" has died down in favor of "Perpinia" and "Stormwrath".

The standard way to refer to a citizen of Stormwrath is as a "Stormwrathian." "Stormwrathian" and "Stormwrath" are used to refer to the nation adjectivally ("Stormwrathian culture", "Stormwrath Armed Forces").

History

Pre-Colonial Era

The oldest surviving recording of the nation anywhere in Zero was by Oracionian fishermen in 4 AD, when they described it as the source of the maelstrom of the ocean. There were also Texurican artifacts found in New Tracillia as early as 388 AD, as well as archaeological digs in Western Stormwrath, giving us a view of the very first settlers of this nation.

Since antiquity, Stormwrath was inhabited by barbarians raiding the Texurican Empire and the Seceded States during the 1st and 2nd centuries. Soon, the two nations fought back and built the Purging Wall along the modern border of Stormwrath and Texurica to keep them out. In the 3rd century, Texurica expanded past the wall and north towards the Camille River Valley, and with the leadership of the Texar Catholic Church, establishing a Holy Empire that dominated Tervalia for 700 years.

Soon after, they implemented countless missionary trips to most of Tervalia, Christianizing it. What followed was the countless Inquisitions of many heretics and Fauns in the Holy Empire and the surrounding areas.

In 698, an explorer named Francisco Palmar landed on the south coast of Perpinia Island. He then led several other expeditions into Stormwrath until he himself was killed by the Texuricans in 716.

Cliffordian Period

Clifford was a nation that once composed of the northern coast of the continent of Zebana. They came to what would be Stormwrath and Montalia in 745. When they first arrived, they were battered by severe storms and bizarre weather. This resulted in the destruction of their colony, with none surviving.

A second wave of colonists followed in 773, establishing the first permanent settlement there, Villanueva. Soon after, they began to expand into the interior. This aroused the hostility of the Texuricans, who saw them as invaders. Eventually, Texurica and the Cliffordian Colonies warred for 28 years before the Texuricans were pushed back to the wall.

Since then, many trading posts were established including New Genon, Osorio City, and Tanamal City to facilitate the trade of various gems and spices to the rest of the human world. They also have a token force to retain their control of the colonies. But that all changed with the arrival of the Elumbish fleet.

Elumbish Period

The Elumbish Islands was a nation that once existed in what is now Looriro. Their expanding empire during the 13th century stretched from Fielia in the north to parts of Golden Cilantro in the south. By 1237, they consolidated control over Montalia and, as a result of a violent war against the Cliffordians, they razed New Genon, and in 1253 they built Tidal City from its ashes.

Soon, other cities like New Medina, Rosario City, and Matadling were also founded during their rule. Both Stormwrath and Montalia had very good communication with the Elumbish Islands, and trade with them was open. Major institutions were also founded, such as the University of Palmaria in Tidal City and the Governor-General's Museum (now the Imperial Metropolitan Museum) in New Medina.

In 1337, Clifford split the colony of Stormwrath-Montalia into two, by taking the middle section that would later become Shivva. This sparked the Palmarian War, resulting in the loss of the Shivvan coast to the Elumbish. No human nation dare challenged the Elumbish Navy.

The colonies eventually prospered, with their spices envied by all of the human world. The money kept flowing to Tidal City, enabling wealthy aristocrats to rise to power, including the Stormravens, who lived in Lilac Chateau (now a palace). However, due to the country producing cash crops, many people living in the farms were deprived of food, due to the lack of food crops.

The problem began to expand to the upper and middle classes, resulting in the crisis of 1421 and the famine of 1432. Due to the lack of food crops, the Governor-General of the colony tried to speed up food production in order to alleviate the crisis. But it proved too late. in 1434, thousands of people raided the Matadling granary, desperate for food. The government began establishing rations, but this only made the people angrier than before.

Another factor that further angered the colonies was the War of 1402 between the Elumbish and the Altarians. The colonies became a heavy source of finance for the war, which meant raising taxes. When the Elumbish lost, they were supposed to pay reparations to Altaro, raising the taxes even higher. Eventually, this led to the 1411 revolts against the colonial rulers, which were put down brutally. This led to resentment between the Stormwrathians and their colonists. Raids on colonial establishments were soon becoming commonplace in 1434, due to the famine.

Independence

Soon, the land was in disarray. On the 27th of April 1435, Stormwrath revolted against their colonial rulers. Riots were rampant all over Tidal City for over a year, as well as with the other cities. In 1436, Tidal City was razed to the ground, forcing the citizens to flee to New Medina. The Elumbish pursued them, but they were met by local resistance along the way.

With militia forces operating so close to New Medina and Matadling, the colonials decided to push into the interior. However, a massive revolutionary army, wearing what looked like Spartan helmets, decimated the Elumbish troops. Soon enough, those same forces were reinforcing their fellow soldiers in the north. This marked the start of the signature look of the Stormwrath Infantry, also known as Myrmidons.

The Elumbish tried again in the east, with a few victories, but they were later crushed by revolutionary forces at the Battle of Mount Fraska, and at the Battle of Xachas. They later retreated to Envelia, where they were surrounded by the revolutionaries and the Texuricans (who supported the revolution) in a protracted siege.

On the 24th of May 1440, the Elumbish surrendered at Matadling, and recognized the new nation in the Treaty of New Waters on July 31. The people elected a Parliament the next day. In 1443, the Articles of Confederation was ratified by Parliament, making Stormwrath a federation. New Medina was designated as a temporary capital until Tidal City was rebuilt in 1449.

However, the Articles of Confederation proved to be weak in pulling the local governments together. With the Federation about to fall apart, a new Constitution was made in 1451, turning the status of Stormwrath into that of an Empire, with Caspian Stormraven crowned Emperor. This centralized the nation, making the country stable, despite the economic turmoil and the sudden death of Caspian in 1463.

Isolationist Era

His son Cato, however, failed to solve many of the problems that started the downfall of Stormwrath's economy. Due to his father's isolationist policy, the country became bankrupt, reduced to making baskets (which they became so good at). He realized something: they have to trade with the rest of the world to survive. Stormwrathian diplomats tried to convince the leaders of Tervalia to open their markets. Eventually, their proposal was rejected.

Then, they stumbled upon an opportunity; since the human nations won't try to make a deal with the Stormwrathians, then they'll try to negotiate with the anthran nations, especially the world power, Altaro. On the 27th of April 1472, Altaro and Stormwrath signed a Treaty of Amity, leading to a new trade partner that had not only the resources, but also the technology to trade with the nation. This also led to very close relations with the Altarians.

By the end of Empress Elizabeth's reign, Stormwrath had negotiated trade deals with Texurica, Montalia, New California Bear, and many other human countries. It also managed to trade with Oracion, further enriching Stormwrath. Eventually, many other nations have Stormwrath's resources in exchange for giving their gold to the country. This allowed Stormwrath to buy the resources they needed to upgrade to more efficient equipment and keep the money flowing.

16th Century

In 1502, Empress Rhiannon ascended to the throne. At the time, Stormwrath was building a navy to protect its trade interests. This went on through the reigns of Emperor Edward and Emperor Sigismund. The Stormwrathian settlers later moved southwards to found new towns in the interior and in New Tracillia, where huge gold and diamond reserves were found.

When the Reformation spread to Stormwrath, its people were divided. The Catholics lived close to the Texurican border while the Protestants lived elsewhere. Tiny skirmishes broke out in Rosario City and Annapolis between the two groups. Eventually, a peacekeeping force was sent by the government to maintain order in the region. They were also instrumental in preventing the Faunus War from spilling into Stormwrath.

This period also saw a golden age for the scientific world, as an exchange of ideas began between Stormwrath and Altaro. Soon enough, Stormwrathian scientists discovered the microsopic world, the laws of physics, the theory of relativity, and many more. The Industrial Revolution that spread early in the 16th century allowed the development of vital industries and increased production. This led to Stormwrathian products being sold abroad, bringing in even more money. It also ushered in a period of cultural development, with various theatres and concert halls that would make up the iconic Lilac Marina.

17th Century

In 1620 through the Act of Union, Stormwrath incorporated the Empire of Palmaria into its realm, doubling its size. This led to a disagreement with Texurica, who declared war. The Texurican War saw the capture of Alpha Centauri and the loss of New Tracillia to Stormwrath; Texurica having regained the region after the Stormwrath War of Independence.

By the end of Emperor Matthias' reign, the Parliament elected a regent to take care of the future Empress, Marian Susanna Stormraven, who was then too young to inherit the throne. During this regency, Stormwrathian art and architecture flourished. This was reflected in the style of famous 17th century churches such as the Borja City Grand Cathedral.

Throughout the reigns of two Empresses, women's suffrage was given, increasing public approval of the monarchy and the government as a whole. The country also helped bring Montalia to development after its independence was granted by the Elumbish Islands in 1668. By this time a railway, known as the Great Tervalian Railway, was built from 1672 to 1677 spanning from Arellano in its south terminus to Bago City, Montalia in its north terminus. In 1682 a canal was built from Arellano to Magdales City, shortening travel time to New Tracillia by a few month.

Emperor Hermann ascended to the throne in 1693, and he began to take away civil rights from his own people. He also tried to incite instability in Montalia, earning the condemnation of his allies. This led to the 1695 revolution, which forced him to flee to the Elumbish Islands (where he became king). His sister, Kathleen Sable, was then crowned Empress a week later. She was the last monarch to support the Elumbish Islands, which are now teetering on the brink of collapse. The Elumbish Islands that once colonized Stormwrath, now are in open trade with them; in other words, they are now hanging on to them by a thread. This thread can only be cut by Altaro or by their former colony.

Great Zeronian War and Post War Events

By the 18th century, immigration began to boom, especially from the aforementioned Islands. With Fielia and Golden Cilantro seceding as separate nations, this led to a bloody revolution and civil war in 1720, replacing the Elumbish Islands with a new Republic, Looriro. This led to a massive wave of refugees fleeing to Altaro (where they were deported elsewhere), Montalia, Texurica, and especially Stormwrath. More than 4 million refugees fled to the country in 1721, and another 5 million followed them in 1722. This increased the population of Stormwrath at the time to 74 million people. Soon enough, the refugees were granted citizenship and civil rights just like everyone else.

After the collapse of the Elumbish Islands, the refugees raised an issue whether Altaro was involved in its fall. This increased tensions between Altaro and the former colonies, including Stormwrath, Montalia, and Shivva. Reports of impressment by the Altarian Navy were confirmed by various Stormwrathian merchants. This led to the Great Zeronian War, which involved the Tervalians (Stormwrath, Shivva, Montalia, Texurica, Golden Cilantro, and NCB) and the Anthrans (Altaro and Oracion). Also known as the War of Tervalian Aggression, the war went on for 7 years (1725-1732) before the Altarians defeated the combined human coalition forces at a colossally high price. Over 4 million humans were killed, including 427,000 Stormwrathians, compared to 957,000 Altarians, making it the most devastating war in Stormwrath's history and the most devastating war in Altaro since the Dark Days.

Stormwrath wasn't welcome of the occupation of their territory, and escalation between the Occupied Zone and Free Stormwrath resulted in the War of Liberation, which saw Stormwrath's allies turning against her in exchange for more food and supplies. The Stormwrathians used guerrilla tactics to lengthen the war, until they claimed victory in 1742.

However, the Treaties of Amity weren't immediately restored with the other Tervalian Nations; Altaro renewed its treaty with newly founded Carenina in 1746, with Stormwrath in 1747, with Montalia in 1749, and with Shivva in 1751. Looriro had its own Treaty of Amity with Altaro in 1764. However, due to Altaro's view that no nation could challenge its power proven wrong, tensions were still high as the Altarians and the human nations, especially those on Tervalia, were having an arms race that lasted until 1803. Altaro has risen from the Great Zeronian War as the world's superpower.

Progressive Age

However, we cannot ignore other accounts about the 18th century. Corporations began booming in Stormwrath, as well as Joint Stock Companies. Soon enough, stock exchanges began to establish themselves firmly, especially the Exchange that will determine the rise and fall of the human economies, and of the economies of the world: Tidal City Stock Exchange.

In 1742, a petition was made by the Fauns escaping other human nations for asylum in Stormwrath, as well as for equality. When it was granted by Emperor Anton, immigration began to rise again, with at least 1 million Fauns arriving in the country every 8 years. Soon after, more Loorirans came to Stormwrath, as well as Fielians and some Carenians. This period would have marked the start of Stormwrath's cultural and ethnic diversity.

The 1750s proved to be a turbulent time for Zero's economy, as the Great Depression of 1754-1759 spread from Altaro to the human nations. This was due to the rapid proliferation of automation which caused a large part of the workforce to be unemployed and unemployable. Tens of thousands of labor unions and white collar workers began what was known as Occupy Percival Street in protest of this.

In 1765, the Parliament decreased the monarch's power, effectively turning Stormwrath into a Constitutional Monarchy. Now, the reigning Monarch cannot make a proposition or a certain change without the Parliament's approval. However, he or she is still the commander-in-chief of the Stormwrath Armed Forces, and in times of war, the imperial decree may overrule the Parliament's decision.

Beginning in 1773, Stormwrath embarked on massive projects such as the Camille River levee system, the Montalia-Stormwrath-Carenina Railway and the Cometa Dam. Maglev railroads began connecting cities and towns across the Empire, and electric automobiles have also began to become popular.

19th Century

Empress Anastasia ascended the throne in 1803, ushering a modern age for the nation. Under her, the nation began to fund other projects, including another canal to be built with the permission and cooperation of Shivva. This once again shortened travel time for merchant ships to reach New Tracillia, just like the Arellano Canal.

When Empress Natalie succeeded her predecessor, she signed another treaty with Altaro that prohibited either country from declaring war with each other. Another one was signed, forming a strong and solid alliance between the two countries. The government began a rapid modernization of the nation, turning Stormwrath into a technologically advanced nation. Soon enough, what would have been described as late 21st century technology has turned into a reality by 1830.

In 1829, Stormwrath had built its first starship, the SES Caspian, and it transported 24,000 settlers to the planet of Viena Veida, in the universe of Yerushalem VI. This was the start of the interstellar empire that Stormwrath will be building for the rest of the 19th century. Other colonies were soon being founded in other galaxies within the multiverse, which was known as NationStates.

Another possible Zeronian War beginning in Upik was stopped in time by the Tervalian Coalition, now Pro-Altarian. This marked increasing cooperation in the affairs of the nations of Zero as a whole, and due to the discovery of NationStates, the nations of Zero created a world organization called the Zero World Commission, with Altaro, Carenina, and NCB as permanent members of the security council.

Wardenclyffe Towers have also been introduced to Stormwrath, making electricity a virtually abundant resource. This raised the standard of living for many Stormwrathians, who now don't have to pay for energy. Soon enough, it began to expand various missions to other planets, especially Anubika. It would seem like nothing would ever stop this progress. By 1902, Stormwrath became the second nation to acquire advanced levels of technology.

Immigration has also reached a peak, especially in the late 19th century, with the onset of the "Decade Without a Summer" from 1880-1890. Many immigrants have come from the extreme north and south of the planet. This included Fielians, Spiderzlanders, Loorirans, some Altarians, and Upikians. Many of these immigrants came to settle in Southern Stormwrath, especially in New Tracillia.

Stormwrath Civil War

However, the Stormwrath Civil War would shatter the peace that once existed in the country since the Great Zeronian War. This is why a war in Stormwrath would threaten the peace and stability in Tervalia, as it sits on some of the most valuable resources in Zero, some of which amount to billions of Royales.

On 4 May 1923, a coup was orchestrated by the military in order in install a Socialist Republic in Stormwrath. Emperor Adam fled to Villanueva and designated the city as his temporary capital. Altaro immediately intervened, fearing a Dark Days scenario in Stormwrath that could result in the deaths of millions. It was the gray of the Republicans versus the beige of the Imperials.

At first, Altaro only sent military aid to the Imperials, but after hundreds of merchant ships were sunk by Kraken Subs, they began to fully enter the war in July. The Republicans felt the Altarian bombing raids in the north and the Imperial advance in the east. Eventually, anti-air cannons were placed along Olario Bay, shooting down 237 Altarian bombers in August alone.

Meanwhile, Imperial Forces began to capture key cities, starting with Jarovilla and Asis City in September. From there, they later conquered Barnuevo City (which was reduced to ruins). When the Altarians were ordered to reach Tidal City by Christmas, immediately the Imperials went southwest, then northwest, cutting the Olario Bay Area off from the rest of Republican territory.

By November, the Imperials marched east and north towards Tidal City, taking it after resistance fighters loyal to the Emperor opened the city to the Imperial army. The Altarians, along with the 11th Imperial Army, came from taking New Medina three days later. By this time, the Republicans were based in Perpinia Island and the remaining southern plains.

For the next 3 years, the Imperials were pushing to regain all the territories lost to the Republicans. Once that was completed, they seized Perpinia from September 1926 to May 1927. Once again, the Empire is one. Reintegration followed, including the creation of a semi-autonomous territory encompassing the island, along with the rapid reconstruction of major cities, and the industrial and technological boom spurred by the war, especially in the East. Eventually, Perpinia would be recognized as an independent state by Empress Jacqueline in 1944.

Jacqueline Era

In 1943, Empress Jacqueline ascended the throne. She would later become one of the most loved rulers of the Empire as well as have the longest term of a Monarch in Stormwrath's history. During her reign, an unprecedented progress began as never seen before. Stormwrath was linked by a Hyperloop system, as well as high-speed Maglevs and newer deuterium cars. Cities across the Empire began to install AI systems that adapted to the conditions every day. State-of-the-art floodgates have also been built to protect coastal cities and towns not only from floods, but even from a tsunami 60 meters high.

The era saw a massive boom in the immigration of Fauns to Stormwrath, due to new opportunities for jobs, to escape from other human countries that discriminated them, or just to become rich to take advantage of the capitalism there. This led the Fauns to be the largest sapient minority in the country, with over 23 million of them.

Anthros have also immigrated to the country to carry on their businesses, but they came in slightly fewer numbers than the Faunus during this period. Stormwrathians have also emigrated from the country, especially during the civil war, forming many communities, including Little Stormwrath in Empire City. The anthros that have arrived here began to propose outsourcing their manufacturing to Stormwrath and the rest of the Tervalian Union, providing plenty of jobs for citizens.

This period has witnessed an era of space exploration and colonization as never seen before in Stormwrath's history. Many expeditions were sent to the Moon, Rha, Anubika, Fenrir's moons, and eventually, Hirol. In fact, one of the crew members of the Hirol Express is a Stormwrathian. Stormwrath's Space Command was also firmly established during this time. The Space Command further expanded Stormwrath's holdings in the multiverse.

Due to the collapse and dismemberment of Altaro in 1986, Stormwrath has assumed the role of superpower. Because of this Zero as a whole is more active in multiversal affairs. The Empire of Chirutarisu assumed Altaro's seat in the Zero World Commission.

This era also saw what would be called a singularity, an advancement so rapid that humanity can't keep up to the latest technology. This led to a tech crisis in Tervalia, which was resolved when Stormwrath shared the new tech with other nations and through the spread of transhumanism. Soon enough, quantum technology, cloning, and many, many space technologies have been mastered during the singularity.

Contemporary History

Now, Stormwrath has maintained relations with the rest of Zero, along with some other countries within the multiverse. English became widespread throughout the Empire, even though many people still speak Elumbish as their Primary Language. By Emperor Percival's succession to the throne, it has strengthened its relations with the Anthran nations and the Tervalian nations, as well as other human nations.

Stormwrath, due to its status as an interstellar empire, has made alliances with other interstellar empires like Elysium of Heroes, Unggoy Star Empire, and New Roma Republic. It has also seen success in establishing the Multi-Species Union.

Currently, Tidal City was chosen as the venue of the first Zero World Exposition, which was held on 30 June of this year.

Geography

Climate

Stormwrath's homeworld is called Zero, in its official territory located slightly left off-center to the Prime Meridian. The country is covered with deciduous forests mostly in the north and west, and coniferous forests near the Palmarian Mountains to the east. The highest point in Stormwrath (and Tervalia) is Mount Fraska at 7,746 meters above sea level, and the lowest point in Zero can be located in the Samerna Valley, at 71 meters below sea level.

The southernmost part of Stormwrath, collectively known as New Tracillia, is known to be mountainous, however many valleys can be found, along with most of the population in the region. Near a rift valley, the region is known to be one of the most earthquake-prone areas in Zero.

The north is mostly flat plains, with few mountain ranges. Huge rivers wind through the country, such as the Jarovilla River and the Palmaria River. Many of these rivers empty into the Montalia Bay or the Great Zeronian Ocean. Most of these rivers contain all kinds of plant and animal life.

Although Stormwrath is technically within the tropics, warm temperate weather can be experienced here. In summer, the highest temperature that can be recorded in the country was only 26 degrees Celsius. However, temperatures can sometimes hit below zero degrees during winter. This is what has fascinated both the scientist and the commoner, as mild snow can be a regular occasion during this season.

Stormwrath has been known to be located in a monsoon belt, hence the origin of the nation's name as explained above. Major cyclones usually hit Stormwrath first before continuing its path northward. In one such occasion, a certain cyclone in 1937 went as far as the Janoria Islands before dissipating. In fact, some of the strongest cyclones on record; such as Cyclone Edwin in 1832 and Cyclone Sally in 1975 have hit Stormwrath.

Biodiversity

Stormwrath has 24% of its land reserved for national and state parks. Many of these parks contain rare plants, such as the Cada Rain Tree, a kind of deciduous tree known for its rainbow colored bark; and the Floricia Tree, known for its crimson red leaves. Stormwrath has a lot of diversity, with over 3,266 confirmed plant species and 2,105 animal species. The Palmarian Phoenix, the national bird of Stormwrath, is notable for being one of the largest and most colorful birds in Zero.

Demographics

Population

The population of its citizens in Zero has reached 770,750,326 in 2012, with many of them concentrated in the north and west of the country. However, the most densely populated state is New Tracillia, with 271 people per sq km. Many people also reside in the Olario Bay area, with 317 people per sq km living within an area spanning from Matadling to Ferrarin City.

For every five babies born in Stormwrath every second, two people die. This population growth rate is remarkably high for a developed nation, as others have slower rates. Aside from that, immigration is another factor contributing to the rise in Stormwrath's population, which is predicted to exceed one billion people by 2030.

The interstellar empire has a total population of 61 billion people; most of them currently reside in star systems and clusters 750 lightyears from Zero. The most populated Stormwrathian planet is New Palmaria with about 3.2 billion citizens. Often times, cities in space colonies would be built close to the celestial body's space elevator.

Language

Elumbish is the de facto language of Stormwrath, which is equivalent to the Terran language of Latin. Elumbish is written in two scripts: the Salvatora Script, which is used in Looriro, and the Elumbish Script, used in Tervalia. 83% speak Elumbish as their primary language, while 14% of Stormwrathians speak English as their primary language. However, 98% of Stormwrathians are proficient, sometimes very fluent in speaking English, thanks to progressive policies in education, as well as the quick acceptance of English by the public.

In contrast, the number of citizens outside of Zero speaking Elumbish as their primary language is only 17%, and for English 6%. Both languages are preferrably used as a lingua franca, especially when communicating with xeno races and other civilizations.

Religion

The largest religion in Stormwrath is Christianity, representing 76% of the population. Atheists come second, consisting of 17% of the population. This is followed by Kodai no Michi (3%), Islam (2%) and other Religions such as Hinduism, Judaism, and Violetism. However, outside of Zero there are many citizens following countless faiths of all kinds. Some of these religions seem odd to homeworld citizens.

Race

Stormwrathians are known to belong to the human species; however due to its empire there has been an overwhelming amount of citizens belonging to other races. Xeno citizens comprise of more than half of the total population of Stormwrath while anthros, fauns and ponies represent 8% of all Stormwrathians.

Government and Politics

The Intergalactic Empire of Stormwrath is a Unitary Constitutional Monarchy, meaning that the monarch serves as a symbolic head of state (although he still has executive powers), and the legislative powers are given to the Parliament, headed by the Prime Minister. Bills are published by either Munisci or Apiscii, and are voted by the members of the House of Apiscii. If the Apiscii are in favor of the bill, it is passed on to the Emperor, who may grant Imperial Assent for the bill to pass as law.

The Apiscii are government officials that come from the nobility of the empire. Many of them come from esteemed families; some of them were the descendants of the founding fathers of Stormwrath. The Munisci are officials elected by the citizens of Stormwrath, and comprise of the majority of government officials within the nation's government structure.

The Executive Branch consists of the Monarch, which is Emperor Percival, and his cabinet, headed by the Prime Minister. The cabinet is handpicked by the Prime Minister, usually from members of his party. The decisions of the Emperor are partly influenced by the cabinet ministers. The Emperor has the power to propose taxes and budgets to the Parliament, and to command the Stormwrath Armed Forces in times of war.

The Legislative Branch is composed of the Stormwrathian Parliament, which is divided into two houses: The House of Apiscii and the House of Munisci. The House of the Apiscii is presided by the High Apiscius while the House of Munisci is presided by the Grand Muniscus. Apiscii serve six year terms in the House of Apiscii, each of them belonging to a certain class. The Lords of a certain class are replaced every two years, so one third of the House of Apiscii is replaced with new members. The House of Munisci has representatives elected every two years, and the number of representatives per state is proportional to the state's population. Extraterrestrial colonies are also represented in Parliament.

Stormwrath's three major parties are the Stormwrath Liberal Party (SLP), the Palmarian Conservative Party (PCP), and the Christian Democratic Party (CDP). During the 2012 general election these three parties managed to win 548 out of 600 seats available in the House of Munisci.

The Judicial Branch is composed of the Chief Justice and eight Justices, which serve as judges. These judges are appointed personally by the Emperor, or occasionally through a majority vote by the House of Apiscii and the House of Munisci. The Imperial Supreme Court is the highest court in the country, and its responsibility is to uphold the Constitution of the Empire of Stormwrath.

Extraterrestrial colonies are ruled by an Overseer, and his/her duties and responsibilities include overseeing the colony, executing and enforcing laws issued by the home planet, commanding the military in times of war, appoint officials to serve in his cabinet and make biannual reports concerning the colony he/she governs. This official is appointed by the Emperor and can serve a six-year term. He/she may have the power to veto laws passed by Parliament, but cannot veto laws with Imperial Assent. At the end of his term, the Overseer will be evaluated by the Stormwrath Interstellar Government Tribunal. If he fails to fulfill some of his supposed tasks during his term, then he shall be fined depending on how much the tribunal may set it (usually from R$ 100,000 to R$ 1,000,000).

Foreign Relations

Stormwrath has diplomatic ties with all nations of Zero, and over 300 nations from all over the NationStates multiverse have embassies in the country. Stormwrath has embassies in all nations of Zero as well as in other regions of NationStates. It is a member of the Zero World Commisssion and the Tervalian Union, where it houses the union's headquarters in Tidal City. However, the nation is criticized for maintaining foreign relations with Zyphius.

Stormwrath is the most active nation in Zero when it comes to diplomacy. It is the founding member of the Multi-Species Union and also a member of other inter-universal organizations such as the Coalition of Monarchies and the Universal Technology Alliance. Stormwrath is part of the G5 and G9 group of developed nations in Zero.

The country is committed to promote and maintain human rights. Prime Minister Neville Kai stated in the New Medina Address of 1743, "We, the people of this great nation, are to be committed to the promotion and defense of human civil and political rights. We believe that in the world, there is no human, nor anthro, or faun, that should be denied their rights because of the way that they were created, or what race that they were born with. We stand for the liberty of the sapient species."

Military

The Armed Forces of the Intergalactic Empire of Stormwrath---officially, the Stormwrath Armed Forces---consists of five professional service branches administered by the Ministry of Defense: the Stormwrath Imperial Army, the Stormwrath Marine Corps, the Stormwrath Imperial Navy, the Stormwrath Air Force, and the Stormwrath Space Command. The Stormwrath Coast Guard is run by the Department of Homeland Security in peacetime, and by the Navy in times of war. The commander-in-chief is the Stormwrathian Monarch, currently Emperor Percival, to whom members of the forces swear an oath of allegiance.

Military service is voluntary, though conscription may occur in wartime through the Imperial Service System. Myrmidons can be rapidly deployed through the Air Force's fleet of transport aircraft, the Navy's 12 active carriers, Imperial Marines at sea through the Great Zeronian and Tokabi fleets, and the vast space armadas operated by the Stormwrath Space Command.

According to numerous sources such as the New Waters International Peace Research Institute and the Ministry of Defense, Stormwrath has the largest military expenditure in Zero; however the current defense budget only accounts for 3% of the total national GDP.

Economy

The Intergalactic Empire of Stormwrath has a capitalist mixed economy which is fueled by natural resources and a high productivity rate. The economic system that Stormwrath uses is the Nordic Model, which involves the combination of a free market economy with a welfare state. Basically, it is the economic system the Nordic countries of Earth are using. Economists say that this model makes Stormwrath one of the best governed nations in the world. The Stormwrath Royale is the primary reserve currency of Zero.

Stormwrath is currently the third largest importer of goods, and the second largest exporter. Its top trading partners are Carenina, Chirutarisu, Montalia, Harvest Federation, and Perpinia. Trilliom was its largest import commodity, while redstone was its largest export. Debt is kept to a minimum set by the Stormwrathian government, usually between R$ 3.64 trillion and R$8.27 trillion.

Stormwrath is a major industrial power in the world of Zero, controlling 37% of the planet's production. Its industries are mostly mechanized, and it has been that way since the 1800s due to the proliferation of automation and the eventual displacement of the labor force. Because of this, manufacturing power has increased immensely, and the labor force has resorted to transhumanism to keep up with the pace of technology. In 2012 it was reported that 71% of the labor force has a certain augmentation; 23% of those involve the replacement of most human body parts with bionic versions.

Infrastructure

Transportation

Private transportation is predominated by automobiles, which operate on a network of more than 13 million roads, which includes one of Zero's most extensive highway systems. Public transportation, especially mass transit and railways, is widespread, accounting for 32% of work trips. Cities implement digital charging systems to relieve congestion in city centers. 55-65% of people take public transport in major cities, compared to 18-27% of people elsewhere. Transport of goods by rail is very extensive, thanks to the proliferation of Hyperloop systems and MagLev railways.

In Stormwrath's colonies, public transportation is much more used. In major colonies, 72-86% of all transportation is public transport, most of it being railways and mass rapid transit. Bicycle usage for work commutes both in Zero and outside is moderate, although the government is encouraging more people to use bicycles for the sake of relieving congestion and improving health through daily exercise.

The civil airline and aerospace industry is mostly privately-owned, while most major airports and spaceports are in public ownership. Orbital stations serve as docking zones for spaceships, and space elevators transport thousands of people and cargo every day. Major colonies also have an extensive array of space infrastructure to handle transportation.

Energy

Stormwrath is a Borderline Type III Civilization, and the intergalactic empire has access to ≈4×10⁴¹ watts of energy; most of it harnessed from the energy of stars, quasar emissions, and the supermassive black hole in the middle of the Tanabiku Galaxy (that is, Zero's home galaxy). Stormwrath may achieve Solid Type III status in about 100-200 years.

Redstone is a special energy source unique to the Tanabiku Galaxy used to power almost every facet of technology, from airships to androids. Any technology that is powered by redstone glows red, hence the name. These crystals can be used as backup power in case of electromagnetic disturbances which may disrupt energy supply. Redstone is often used to create antimatter to power masssive starships.

Satellites with solar panels surround Tamarus, creating a Dyson swarm around the star. After collecting its energy, its energy is then beamed Zero; and then it is received by four central hubs built along the equator and converted into electricity. Dyson swarms have also been built and positioned around other stars in Stormwrath's empire; the largest swarm surrounding the white hypergiant star Plebeian.

Improbability Reactors may soon become a significant energy source, drawing its energy from outside the known universe. This could put Zeronian civilization as a whole in the level of a Type IV or even a Type V civilization once the technology becomes cheaper, faster and more feasible.

Science and Technology

Culture

Arts and Literature

Mass Media

Music

Food

Sports

v t e Largest Cities of Stormwrath Stormwrath Census Bureau
Rank	Name	State or Territory	Pop.	Rank	Name	State or Territory	Pop.
1	Tidal City	Tidal City Capital Territory	46,793,164	11	Acunia City	Acunia	15,946,377
2	Annapolis	New Tracillia	34,856,034	12	Dablio	New Tracillia	15,021,453
3	New Medina	Acunia	31,425,967	13	Jarovilla	Asicia	14,798,165
4	Villanueva	Tanamal Bay	27,683,946	14	Osorio City	Osorio-Mercadia	14,214,679
5	Mercado City	Osorio-Mercadia	25,734,442	15	Flores	Floricia	13,698,542
6	Undangan City	Harantia	23,946,891	16	Colobong	Salveria	12,993,617
7	Matadling	Camille Valley	21,336,791	17	Ferrarin City	New Clifford	12,342,795
8	Rosario City	New Tracillia	19,876,415	18	Monta City	Veneracio	11,665,794
9	Merdeka City	Maxwell	17,933,448	19	Senoren City	New Tracillia	11,175,469
10	Olario	Maxwell	16,835,577	20	Borja City	Benedicto	10,976,513