If the natives are to be believed, Tormeré is the most beautiful place in the world. Calm, clear, warm ocean juts against miles and miles of pink sands, colorful and intricate architecture pokes out from behind rolling hills, and the ground sparkles with the blue dust of their national gemstone, the paraíba. It's always comfortably warm, and there's a constant pleasant breeze. Native cheiro flowers naturally perfume the air, and carrilhão trees sound like chimes in the wind. In so many words, it's paradise.
Truth be told, Tormeré truly is as beautiful as they say. Tormeré is part of the "Iridescent Belt," the group of three countries where the Host's presence is strongest (along with Calaria and Brithwyn). It's said that the Host blessed Tormeré, and the natural beauty here is strong evidence for the claim.
Artists come to Tormeré to gain inspiration and jewelers visit for the renowned gemstones -- but most permanent residents are farmers. Sweet fruits used to make liqueurs and oils are grown in vast plantations here, and a mild hallucinogen called erva-teme is one of the more popular exports.
The Tormerén government is completely democratic, a rarity for Edan. That said, while local politics does tend to stay local, the greater Tormerén government usually defers to the Iridescent Church when relevant. In return, Calaria serves as a protector of Tormeré on the global stage, acting a staunch ally when dealing with the other countries.
Bev :: Welcome back to the Situation Room. I'm Bev Sirnow, and next to me is Chuck Vessler.
Tonight's top story: Outrage at the National Gallery after famous Tormerén sculptor Paolo Barreto unveiled his latest work. Called "The Grace of God," Barreto revealed the sculpture for the first time at a charity auction, where it was supposed to be the centerpiece of the event.
- Chuck
- Bev, Barreto's been a controversial figure in the past to be sure, but after his years-long hiatus, he's promised to return with more palatable works. What's so outrageous about his new art?
- Bev
- Well Chuck, the sculpture depicts the Outer Gods as humans, with the Host stepping on the other God's backs. To make matters worse--
- Chuck
- Ah, I see, so the other churches are mad at the display of Host superiority. Doesn't seem like all that much to yell about, if I'm being honest.
- Bev
- If you'd let me finish, all of the Gods are nude and the Host is excessively well-endowed. Foreign diplomats are complaining that such an offensive sculpture was auctioned off, and the Iridescent Church is censuring Barreto for sacrilege.
- Chuck
- A PA just brought me a picture -- I don't see the problem, I think she looks good.
- Bev
- And that's why you had those court cases, Chuck.
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