David thanked Kubik for the Green Tea as he took a seat. He had to agree with a great deal of what the Queen said but before getting down to business he had to address something. "I hope you believe me when I say we never saw our relationship as anything other than of equals. Even before we were asked to help support your military reforms myself and Queen Viktoriya had built a relationship based on friendship. Friends help each other, she asked for help and we were happy to provide it. I'm just happy its worked so well. Now in terms of putting together something as you see it for a long term future I'm happy to do exactly that. The CNN collapse we always envisaged that the conditions would roll over but it seems that we need something more unique between our nations. With that in mind I do have a kind of wishlist. First I'd like to ensure that we maintain our open trade policies and alongside that some streamlined travel arrangements. I think we also need to maintain the mutual defence and military co-operation side of things. Now in terms of new items for us I would us to look at some anti-human trafficking commitments, following the Nya Aland situation we have quiet a few people missing thanks to operations there by as of yet unknown forces, that needs sorting."

The Palace have today confirmed that on his way back from Lodja the King will visit Xerente, marking the first time the monarch of East Moreland has visited the nation in recent history. The King is due to return from Lodja on Tuesday following a trip to re-formalise relations with perhaps the Kingdoms closest ally while also visiting Queen Stasya's family there. The King has always put an emphasis on Prince Llewellyn experiencing both sides of his heritage and frequent visits to Lodja have been part of the three year olds upbringing so far. The King however is apparently keen to seek assurances from the government of Xerente over the safety of foreign nationals. A recent religious incident saw foreign nationals targetted by criminal elements of one of the nations religious factions. During these incidents one East Moreland citizen, 22 year old student Edward Hebden, was hospitalised after being attacked and robbed. The King said, "I am someone who has always been keen to allow people to express their religion or in fact their lack of faith, but I'm surprised that this incident took place apparently in the name of religion. I am keen to achieve two things in Xerente. First I am keen to make sure that all Morelanders who happen to be in Xerente are safe and will be kept safe. I know I do not speak for the international community but I will be advocating for all foreign nationals when I speak with Xerente representatives. Second I seek to understand how or why a faith can advocate targetting foreigners. I am aware that the Primarch of Salvatrix and the Chief Magistrate both spoke out against the violence and they can not be held accountable for the actions of a gang of thugs but I want to try and comprehend how the incident happened in the first instance."

Edward Hebden was left with concussion and required five stitches to a head wound he received when knocked unconscious while unlocking his front door. The 22 year old was there as part of a photography assignment from travel blog website Lucky Trip. He was discovered by neighbours who alerted the police. He has since returned home to East Moreland and said "I was surprised. I'd enjoyed the first month of what was supposed to be six there and then this happened. When I woke up my phone, wallet and even my trainers had been taken. They'd let themselves into my flat and stolen my camera, laptop and taken a few bits and a watch. I never even heard them coming."

The King has also said that he intends to make a final pitstop on his way home by visiting Semelberg where he technically holds the title of High Prince. Royal Press Secretary Malcolm Tucker said. "The King may have been surprised by the title following the Pelagiya families arrangement with the Charterlands but now he must see the best done by Prince Maximilion who is governing in the name of the Pelagiya-Ironside family. One day Prince Llewellyn will inherit his fathers title and any responsible father will want to ensure the inheritance is in good order." The King is expected to inspect troops from the local militia who have undergone specialist training from Red Legion after the small 1,800 strong Semelberg Militia had been reorganised into a Light Scout role with a small Commando element. 

The East Moreland Football Association have today received a huge financial boost. The EMFA are responsible for all levels of football in both mens and womens games and this includes making arrangements for TV rights. Today the Chief Executive of the EMFA, Robert Hindmarch, signed a deal with media rights company Progress TV who specialise in sports streaming. The arrangement will see each of the top flight clubs in both the mens and womens games receive a total of $15million each spread over the next two years with Tier 2 teams receiving some $6million over the same time period. The deal will give Progress TV exclusive rights to stream all fixtures on their platform as well as moving one men and womens game per round from their traditional 3pm Saturday slot to either Saturday evening or Sunday lunchtimes. The deal will also include an additional $45million for the EMFA directly for Progress TV to have exclusive access to the National Teams in build up to international games to make documentaries and reality TV shows. EMTV shall however retain the rights to show national team games live for free. Mr.Hindmarch explained that this deal is likely to help improve the standard of the sport that has for some time been slowly growing in East Moreland. "We are a nation that for various reasons embraced rugby more than football. That's reflected in crowd sizes, funding and facilities. There is though a growing hardcore group of fans of the game here and we've seen spectator numbers grow. This will now give a wider audience access to even more games and hopefully help that growth gain a spurt. We've seen a handful of clubs, such as AFC Roberton, get ahead thanks to funding streams from generous benefactors such as the King but the other 47 clubs who make up the three professional tiers don't enjoy the same support. With clubs such as Northfort United having a mens and womens top flight team they're going to get a $30million shot in the arm and this can only be good for the game."

Players have responded positvely to with James Burrows, the national team captain and Rockhampton Rangers central defender, saying "When we compare ourselves to nations that have always done well internationally like Achkaerin we see their players on high wages and focusing full time on the game. Meanwhile here less than 10% of our top flight is made up of full time professionals. I'd got 18 caps for the national team before I could give up being a factory supervisor. We're hopefully going to see many more professionals and this will boost our performance at major competitions."

The deal comes into effect from February 1st following teams coming back from the winter break.

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Even Stasya hadn't spent that much time in Zhenkov after all it wasn't exactly the upmarket cosmopolitan nightspot that she craved when back home, nor had it featured much on her itinerary as a socialite. It was so unknown to her she'd had to actually double check where it was on a map before leaving with her husband. She was pleased to be back in her homeland for a few days. She always enjoyed her time in her native land as it usually involved seeing old friends and enjoying some of the more laid back nightlife compared to East Moreland. As always the flight over was uneventful. Prince Llewellyn was, as ever, fussed over by the air force stewards who had given him yet another model plane for his collection. The three year old had grown accustomed to time aboard Ironside One and the pilots even allowed him to spend some time sat in the jump seat in the cockpit meaning the King and Queen had some time to themselves. On arrival it was hard to drag Llewellyn away from the staff and get him into his smart trousers and shirt. Stasya would be meeting with her parents who had travelled into town to spend some time with their grandson but it also meant the Prince would likely feature in some of the media that undoubtedly came with visits such as this. The idea of meeting the Queen of Lodja was not one David was too worried about as he considered her more of a friend than another royal. As such the fact he wasn't meet at the airport was of little concern. When they did meet he smiled, "Queen Natalya, lovely to see you once again. As ever I'm thrilled to be in Lodja."

Admiral James Thompson hadn't expected any involvement in the Kritamala situation save some logistical support. The fact he had now been asked to send some 300 sailors out to Kritamala was something he'd never imagined. "I'm not sure what you're going to find when you get to Kritamala. The KASA have told us that the vessels are in good order but low on supplies, their crews largely melted into the countryside, most returning home likely worried about their families. We'll be over staffing the ships but that'll be OK." he informed Yacobs who was overseeing the whole operation.

It was the first time any of the crews could remember such an order, being ordered onto planes at such short notice. They'd always taken their own ships with them wherever they went but today that was going to be different. With news that it was likely the Rodinan navy was likely to be putting to sea on an "aid run" of their own it was important that some friendly ships got into the neighbourhood of the ports the Lodjains were aiming for first. The Lodjains were likely to arrive shortly after the Rodinan's and if somehow they could hold up those ships it would give them a potential edge. As such the Morelanders would be tasked with getting the three 1960's frigates out to sea as soon as possible. Kritamalans had already begun stocking with more food and weapons but it would be around ten hours before they were good to go.

After a series of articles about a potential new "Global Forum"  between the Pharoah of Clysperis and the Empress of Achkaerin the King of East Moreland has spoken out on the matter during his visit to Portworth Dockyards to check on the progress of the new support ships due to enter service soon. During the visit the King was asked about the potential of East Moreland joining such an organisation and the King replied saying "We shall wait and watch. I have a big issue with these grand all encompassing bodies, we've been in several that have failed and each time for more or less the same reason as identified by Empress Serenity. When push comes to shove the majority of the world do not get involved and when that happens how can you claim to speak for the world. Perhaps my idealism was shattered when the previous form of this took more time debating petty squabbles than it did the genocide of faithful of the Cult of Helus. This meant that without authorisation of the then CTO we were forced to act unilaterally before thankfully having Achkaerin support us. There is still evidence that when the world needs action the world doesn't want to know. Lets look at the current scenarios in the world. We have political chaos in Nya Aland that has lead to armed conflict and human trafficking. There are zero barriers to supporting good order there yet no one beyond ourselves, Lodja and Achkaerin have taken any action. Next we have Troyes, a regional body began moves there and then a multi-national conference called in Jaargalant. An approach similar to what would have happened had something like the CTO existed has taken place and yet there was no need for one to exist. Finally we look at Kritamala, a nation in turmoil, a nation in the midst of a humanitarian and health crisis and massive international action taking place with, us, Ui Cennesliag, Lodja, Renaku and Achkaerin offering aid, all with the International Humanitarian Corps organising. I have to ask myself in the case of Kritamala what would a body such as the CTO bring to the table that the IHC hasn't. I fear that we're adding a layer of discussion to possible action and delay costs lives. I will watch and see what comes out but its going to need to be pretty momentous to persuade me of the ability for it to do what can't be done now."

Former Minister of Defence Sir Harry Samuelson, who at one time was a Secretary-General of the CTO, also spoke on the matter. "When in post I believed the CTO was a neccessity for Mundus. I would today urge caution. We see nations who on a day to day basis ignore their neighbours plights yet somehow think an organisation made up of discussion is somehow going to make the world a better place. The Pharoah says "When diplomats succeed soldiers stay home" sometimes soldiers aren't fighters. Sometimes soldiers are doctors, they are care workers, they are teachers, engineers or construction labourers. When diplomats talk these same soldiers stay home. Within 48 hours of Kritamala saying they needed help as their country crumbled members of the East Moreland military were on the ground distributing food and helping restore vital services. Less than a day later the first IHC mission swung into force. There were no diplomatic wrangling just a collection of five countries doing what was needed. Now deep into this crisis and with one of Mundus most deadly diseases on the loose those men and women stand at the front line of what could become a global battle. They are holding a line against a microscopic enemy. Meanwhile Clysperis, just 1,500km from that crisis talks about setting up a body that would perhaps be expected to co-ordinate the international response to that crisis. Meanwhile East Moreland fly daily 7000km to do what little we can. Bodies like the CTO are perhaps not needed until such a time people actually want to be good neighbours. I'm proud to have been part of East Moreland delegations across the globe. We have a network of diplomacy unlike any other on Mundus. The CTO wasn't needed for that. Networking such as that is more of a way forward than a talking shop."

Polls so far suggest most Morelanders would be opposed to military involvement with such a body.

Dame Eryn Becket has today been named as the nations new Minister of Defence. The 54 year old became the first female to head up one of East Moreland's elite military units in 2019 when she became the commanding officer of the Joint Special Forces Aviation Wing, a unit responsible for co-operating closely on operations with the members of Red Legion and the Royal Marine Commandos. She left the armed forces in February and has been working as a special adviser to EMAC since. The King invited her to the Palace late yesterday afternoon and offered her the position formerly held by Sir Harry Samuelson who palace sources confirmed was also at the meeting to officially hand over the role. In a statement issued to the media King David said, "I want to once again place on record our nations thanks to Sir Harry for his service to our nation. I am grateful for the guidance, support and sometimes stern words he has provided me with at some of our nations most challenging moments. While I know he will not be retiring off to the countryside like many his age may consider I wish him a much more relaxed future than what I have been able to provide him with. We are lucky to be able to replace Sir Harry with someone with just as elite a level of experience from within our armed forces. I have always said that as far as possible I will seek to fill ministerial positions with people that posses the skills, knowledge and understanding gained from experience in that field. Dame Eryn is a fantastic officer and I have worked alongside her several times in the past already. I'm delighted to say we have an excellent working relationship and I am certain that she will be able to make this portfolio a success."

Dame Eryn spoke after accepting the position saying "I have large shoes to fill and the King has given me a clear mission. That is to ensure that the East Moreland military stands as the best on Mundus. We must continue to ensure our training systems are demanding and purposeful. We must ensure our equipment pushes the boundaries of science and technology and we must ensure that we are prepared to take that step required to do what is right. I have inherited a ministry that is in a very good position to achieve this but I can not afford to allow our work to ease as that would be an insult to the stewardship of Sir Harry. My first order of business will be to formally meet all the armed forces heads and see where they believe we need to focus our first few weeks of attention."

It is likely her first official duty may well be to accept delivery of the first of three "Sidekick" class support ships due to be delivered in a few weeks time.

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It has today been confirmed that the seven year old son of Lady Matilda Osman and Formula Mundus driver Sam Halliday has died. Oliver Halliday-Osman was the half brother of Princess Rhiannon and suffered from Hunters Syndrome. The family informed the press saying that Oliver had died following complications from a respitary infection. The condition is the same one that resulted in the death of Prince Caspian when he was three years old. It was the death of the Prince that many credit with the separation and then divorce of King David and the then Queen Matilda. While the Osman family have asked for privacy a vehicle transporting Princess Rhiannon and King David was seen arriving at the Osman's estate in Portworth with the King seen leaving alone several hours later.

Royal Press Secretary, Malcolm Tucker informed the media saying. "Naturally this is a time of great emotional distress for Princess Rhiannon and the Osman side of her family. It is a sad day that another child has been lost to a medical condition we are still learning about and all our prayers go to the family at this time. King David believes that his daughter with Lady Matilda should be as close to her mother at this tragic time and will do all that is requested of him to support them. We ask that the media respect the families wishes and let them grieve in private."

Sam Halliday has yet to make any public statement or acknowledgement of the situation however over the past seven years he has had what many would describe as "minimal" input into the life of Oliver who was born following what the driver has called a "brief fling".

With the meeting between Dunhart and Nova Salus taking a little longer than had been expected King David was slightly annoyed that East Moreland's reputation for extraordinary punctuality. It hadn't helped that Stasya had also been delayed getting her luggage organised onto Ironside One, at times her more Lodjain nature came to the fore. After landing Ironside One sat on the tarmac a moment or two as the Queen had determined a change of dress was needed, much to her husbands frustration. Finally with the "correct" dress it was time to head to the venue and meet whoever was on meet and greet detail.

There was often small gestures in ceremonies that carried some kind of meaning. While this one didn't it was a concern that perhaps to some eagle eyed onlooker something without meaning could receive meaning. While the idea of the boat had in his view been a good way of not showing favour to either of Dunhart or Salus Nova the problem would be David would need to get ashore at some point. As a consequence David had selected a river boat that had a cabin he could climb onto and from there onto one of the bridges. He'd been praying to Helus he hadn't lost his footing and ended up in the river. Thankfully his worries never materialised and he found himself safely mid bridge among members of the Alpine Cadre who had symbolically been part of this final inspection. He waited for Queen Lavina and King Nicholas to gather together from his mid point in the bridge and then approached them. He hadn't expected to be gifted a medal, it wasn't like he'd done anything more than hundreds of other East Moreland legionnaires, he'd made a handful of visits for inspections over his military career but he knew there were officers who would have sweated over minute details to get this day to become reality. He felt that he couldn't turn down the medal but at the same time didn't want to accept it, instead he asked a question. "I don't want to sound ungrateful but my service under the Rockhampton Protocols was relatively minor, there are probably many more officers who undertake far more inspections, far more peacekeeping and had a much larger role . I wonder if you would permit this to go on the memorial to the Legionnaires who died on 22nd March 1992, the botched missile strike hit our border post and the six men became our nations only casualties during these operations. I think it a more fitting memorial than me wearing this." He hoped he hadn't offended his two hosts.

David had remembered his grand-mother dealing with the war between Nova Salus and Dunhart when he was a little boy. It had been his first real understanding of what war actually was beyond that which little boys think of when playing soldiers with friends. He had heard Granny Pippa talking about deaths and tragedy. Even though this war had ended when he was 12 years old he had other memories. He had visited both Nova Salus and Dunhart as a member of the Alpine Cadre, one of the probably hundreds if not thousands of Morelanders who had taken part in the inspections to ensure no permanent military structures had been rebuilt. It was therefore poignient that he was wearing his beloved units uniform of black dress attire, white chest cross belt complete with old fashioned style cartridge box and topped with a white beret. When the invite had come it had been an obvious choice of who would accompany him beyond his wife and daughter, now as he relaxed enjoying a more luxurious drive than ever previously through the Dunhartian countryside he could see a convoy of East Moreland armoured vehicles. They stopped some 5km away from where King Nicholas and Queen Lavina stood on their respective banks. David had thought how this occasion may look if he was seen arriving in one nation over the other and so he, Stasya and Rhiannon transferred into a boat on the river.Rhiannon dangled a hand in the cool water as the boat meandered its way towards the meeting point. She tried to see if there were any fish but the boats passing swirled the water too much. As they neared the site the King ensured he had everything set in his mind and after a final uniform check he was ready just as they "parked" in mid river.

Soon it was time for proceedings to start. From the roads that lead to either bank a column of East Moreland vehicles arrived, each made up of four camo painted SUV's and one engineers truck with folding bride. Using his boats PA system it was over to David. "Today marks the final step of the Rockhampton Protocol. For the past three decades our nations have worked together to ensure the peace of 1994 has remained. Since that time I am pleased to say Salus Nova and Dunhart have become peaceful neighbours. East Moreland troops have been frequent visitors up and down these roads, our aircraft have scanned these woodlands and today this shall be , I hope, the final time we are called upon to do that."  One cue the 50 soldiers from each side filed out of their wooden buildings and stood neatly on parde. "As a commissioned officer in the East Moreland military I am pleased to report that both sides have agreed to remove the last military outposts from this zone. " With that there was a theatrical bang and the structure fell inwards on itself, as it had been designed to do. Next the East Moreland bridge vehicles extended their arms until two temporary bridges formed between the two nations. "As required by the Rockhampton Protocols and as authorised by a commissioned officer from the East Moreland armed forces I can proudly say our mission is complete. We wish Salus Nova an Danhurt a brighter future and close friendship." With that a bugle blew and 25 members of each nation lined each bridge. This was now the moment for the respective monarchs to take one of the bridges and for the first time in three decades enter the other nation.

Dear Mr.Grugner

The East Moreland Aircraft Company (EMAC) have long enjoyed a reputation for technological excellence, innovation and investing in both the future and communities. With this in mind we have handed in recent months several of our projects not related directly to engineering and aviation over to the EMAC Overseas Investment Portfolio, a part of our business which will oversee several projects including, the management of three football teams, a Formula Mundus team, several sports venues, an airline and two training academies. With this in mind we would like to be given the go ahead to operate one of the innovation parks.

We believe we are a brilliant candidate for several reasons.

1. We were one of the first companies to move into and begin operations in East Moreland's Technology City, today known as Chamwick. This has been an important project that has promoted global co-operation in a variety of fields and has brought large numbers of international businesses together. It is our belief that our experiences here will allow us to replicate the lessons learned at one of these parks here.

2. We have partnerships in existence with a wide range of projects. Over the years we have seen EMAC undertake projects alongside the Nya Aland space programme, the Cenng Space Programme, built ejector seats alongside Heyra, build components in Lijiang. This global network will allow us to bring new eyes to Drakensjölund creating more jobs and bringing in high tech projects.

3. EMAC are a company that value our workers. As such we have invested in projects outside our own field of operations. We now back sports teams, study programmes, cadet groups and adventurous activities across Mundus. Should we be selected citizens of Drakensjölund will be able to access these projects.

4. We realise the importance of education. At Chamwick we have operated the Institute for Aviation Sciences, creating a new generation of highly skilled professionals. Should we be selected we would likewise seek to establish an institute similar to this in Drakensjölund giving your citizens access to world class learning oppurtunities.

5. We would not see the park as merely a project for innovation. We would view it as a community and seek to actively engage new start up companies and support them in their growth. This would help our company gain involvement in new fields and industries while helping your own small businesses thrive. Alongside this we would construct leisure activities in the community to help those working here enjoy a work/life balance.

We would be willing to invest up to $500million for the project with a minimum of $300million. Should you wish to discuss the matter we would be delighted to meet and talk through our proposal and your needs.

May The Gods Watch Over You and Your Nation Know Peace

Richard Toffer
Head of Investments
EOIP
EMAC Industries. 

Sir Harry Samuelson has today confirmed that he has informed King David that he will stand down as Minister of Defence as soon as the King has found a suitable replacement. The 64 year old has held the position for five years and has overseen several key operations conducted by the East Moreland military, including the elimination of Mundus most wanted terrorist Kyle Barren. In the announcement Sir Harry said, "To be able to serve the Kingdom and represent the men and women of our armed forces has always been my proudest moments. The time has come however when I want to spend more time with my grand-children who live in Freestone. Having to split time between Ostlake and Northfort makes that difficult and so something has to give. I joined the East Moreland armed forces at the age of 18 and have been involved with them one way or another ever since. I have missed many family occasions and I can't maintain that any longer. I have no desire to leave the Kingdom, and more importantly our veterans, without representation so have informed His Majesty that I will continue serving until he has found a replacement and was given assurances that a successor will be named in short order." The former Red Legionnaire marksman instructor also confirmed that he will take up an offer to work with former Red Legionnaire commander Richard Kelly's  Red-e Security Consultancy as an instructor two days a week. "It will allow me to continue my love of competition shooting while still getting some work in" Sir Harry added.

The King meanwhile released a statement saying. "Sir Harry served this nation first in the rank and file of our military, then as one of the elite soldiers of Mundus in Red Legion. He has worn many hats over the years but never ceased to serve the Kingdom, my family, and the people of East Moreland. If he has determined now is the time to step aside and focus on a more leisurely life and his family then so be it. I wish him well and want to thank him for everything he has done for the Kingdom and my family. He has unselflessly agreed to stay on until we have a new Minister in place and I can assure Sir Harry that will be by the end of the month. We're a nation with a fine military heritage and their is no shortage of experienced and dedicated former military members that will make my shortlist, to be someone though who can match Sir Harry's commitment will be a greater challenge."

Many believe that former Air Force commander and EMAC test pilot Danny Jules may be in the running as he accepted a position as a junior minister with responsibility for the Air Force last year.

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A small Temple in Rockhampton has today announced that it will cancel its planned celebrations for the Feast of Grasa. The Millpond Avenue Temple is run by Erin Wood, a 22 year old Priestess, who has gained a reputation for outspoken views on a wide range of matters. Priestess Wood established the temple herself in January with a stated aim of "bringing the Cult a fresh persepective that will help my generation carry the Gods forward." The temple has hosted a variety of events that have raised eyebrows including speed dating, aimed at allowing young members of the faith to meet their future partners. With the 24 hour fast for the Feast of Grasa beginning on the 22nd October the Temple had been selling tickets for a VBG on the 23rd with the proceeds going towards homeless shelters and to help support aid operations in Kritamala. Despite the good cause the Temple has sold just seven tickets forcing the event to be cancelled. Priestess Wood told us, "A VBQ is a vegeterian BBQ, I firmly believe that there is no good reason to eat meat. All creatures of Mundus are part of Helus' creation and therefore perfect. We should not destroy what Helus has created. Our highest order is to protect those that can not protect themselves and how are farm animals who learn to trust their owners expected to do that. We can have a wonderful feast without blood on our hands."

One member of the congregation who had brought a ticket was 21 year old Fran Burns who explained, "I see the beautiful nature of our holy land given to us by the Gods. Every thing that exists here is part of that creation and as such it is not our right to destroy it. This was a chance to show that we can eat well, eat tasty and enjoy time with our fellow Cultists without having the slaughter countless animals." Another attendee of the Temple is Sara Stattin, whoever she has now begun looking for another Temple. "I enjoy the Feast of Grasa every year and feel so grateful for the bounty of produce our nation has. The Feast is a time to come together and share tasty treats with everyone of your Temple community. No-one should be excluded, having a Vegeterian BBQ is automatically going to exclude the majority of the congregation. Its wrong to push beliefs not found in scripture."

High Priestess Skye Maddix was asked for comment and said, " Our faith has no rules on diet like many others do. We as a faith though do not shy away from blood, some of our most sacred rites see us give drops of our own blood to the Gods. While Priestess Wood is correct all creatures are part of Helus creation not all creatures are equal. Helus created us to manage his world and we must do so the best way possible. I will be enjoying a traditional venison dinner with my own congregation however should one of them wish to only consume vegetables than that is their choice. Animal welfare and animal rights is a matter for each conscious and I urge people to ensure that if they are eating meat they do so from farms with high welfare standards, or better yet you hunt your own."

The Royal Palace has begun preparations for their own feast which will feature 20 deer, 10 cows, 10 sheep and 15 hogs.

Over the past decade EMAC have gained a reputation for speed based stunts that have both boosted their brands recognition while acting as a test bed for new technology. The companies latest attention grabbing project however relies less on speed and more on endurance. The project is being called "Marathon Flight" and is an ambitious undertaking, that if successful, will see an almost standard aircraft remain airborne for 100 days. The aircraft in question is EMAC's Ultra-Lightweight National Tourer (ULNT) which at present is a two prototype project that has clocked up close to 2,000 hours of flight. One of those prototypes has been refitted with a larger fuel tank and a specialist pump system. The aircraft is known to have an exceptionally slow stall speed meaning that it will refuel while airborne from a truck moving on the ground. EMAC's technical teams have already tested out the procedure and have confirmed its viability. In addition they will be able to transfer supplies of food and drink. The aircraft will have two pilots, both members of the Air Forces pilot training school. Flt Lt Kirwin is more accustomed to flying Switchback bombers however has been serving as an instructor for the past six months. He will be sharing the controls with Flt.Lt Manning who is usually assigned to fly Dragonskin fighters and is Kirwin's colleague at the training school. The duo will fly in shifts with space to sleep and relax avaliable in the rear seats of the aircraft that have been removed.

Sir Alan Maybury, EMAC's CEO, spoke about the project saying. "There is no doubt that EMAC is one of the most advanced aircraft companies in the world. We've used the last decade to diversify, be that land, sea, air or even space speed records or groundbreaking technology. We're proud of what we have helped achieve but now we're heading in a different direction. I can't think of any examples of any small vehicle engine operating non-stop for this length of time, what we're showing is that if you commission EMAC to make an engine you're getting not just a speedy one but a durable one." The aircraft will fly circuits around the city of Chamwick where EMAC's HQ is located. It will use the companies circular test bed previously used by the F.1 team to make its refuelling runs. While the aircraft still has some minor modifications to be made EMAC expect the take off to take place on Monday with the aircraft then not landing until 29th January 2025.

Chaudhuri was thankfully devoid of many people, less than a few tens of thousands. It didn't take long though for the news of KASA and the Morelanders arrival to have spread. People began approaching the cricket stadium seeking news. Meanwhile Suraj Kumar, a man who had been left behind by the Bachchan administration to act as a kind of mayor, had a problem. He was almost universally hated. He had been in charge of making sure that the small amount of required work in the capital was carried out. Beyond that he had been the one to say whether an individual could stay in the city or had to leave for some far flung commune somewhere in the countryside. Families had been split up, children left behind in the capital to receive an education for future administrative roles while their parents had been sent off to work the land. As a result it had only been the vast numbers of the armed forces that had been around his residence that had stopped people seeking him for vengence. Those troops had melted away now and as a result Kumar was isolated. He'd already runaway from a mob that had gathered outside the palace, only around 40 people but they had all been carrying guns and knives. Now he was scurrying around the city trying to find a way to the cricket stadium or bump into some of those Morelanders that he'd heard of. He'd all but made the stadium when a group of people spotted him and yelled at him, two men began chasing him. He ran as fast as he could towards the stadium yelling for help.

Meanwhile KASA had made a decision. They would bring as many people as possible in their contingent to the capital and while Bachchan had once kept a ring of steel around the place to enforce his will they would do their best to enforce a kind of quarantine. Their people out in the country had already estimated some 150,000 people were packing up and heading back towards Chaudhuri. The "troops" as they were would try and encourage people to submit to only heading into the North of the city where they had yet to find any outbreaks, meanwhile they'd try and get the Morelanders to set up a testing programme.

Just like every evening there was a briefing at the Cricket stadium. It showed the stark contrast between the three contingents. On the one hand their was the KASA who seemed to be nothing more than a rag tag militia with the exception of the black vests with KASA emblazoned on, they were represented by  Murali Khan who was happy to have his men do what the Morelanders recommended. Then there were the members of the regular East Moreland military, headed up by Major Grant of the Royal Marines. He was always dressed in regulation fatigues and like the good Marine he was carried his rifle with him at every meeting slung across his back. Sat next to him was Captain Seb Johnson of Red Legion, a man who looked more like what you would imagine a war reporter to look like. Had it not been for the sword strapped to the side of his webbing you could have well imagined his pouches filled with photography equipment and notepads not flashbangs and grenades. The only things marking Johnson as a soldier was the blacked out pips on his black jacket colour, a small honeybadger shoulder patch and the East Moreland flag on his left chest pocket. The trio would meet in the evening and discuss the progress, or lack of that day. A map had appeared yesterday and it marked three dark blobs on the roads that were approaching. "We're estimating that the first of the groups will arrive first light. We've had the KASA trying to divert them but its not happening." Khan explained.

"The bad news is." Grant looked at his neatly scrawled notes. "We've got a definite hotspot of the virus over by the shopping preceinct in the North East quadrant. So far 12 confirmed cases, another....33 suspected. The 12 confirmed, its looking grim, we're talking late stage. The 33 suspected they've started treatment just in case but now its a case of keeping an eye on those they had contact with and well that begins it. The plan is that when these people arrive we're going to try and funnel them elsewhere in the city, but our people think it could get messy as more people come in. Some are going to be honest and head home, others are going to try and bag prime spots."

"So what do me and my boys do....seems a little routine for special forces." Johnson asked as he sipped on his chai, something he'd taken to with delight.

"I have a suggestion" Khan put forward. "As you know we had  Suraj Kumar, the former governor, arrive here this morning. He needs to be in custody. Is there any chance you can remove him from the city before the mob get hold of him. We're likely to want to run trials in the future and he'd be on our wanted list. Can we have him taken to the airfield and from there potentially out of Kritamala for the time being?"

"Prisoner transport?" Johnson mused, "Happy to do it, we'll leave in the morning."

King David has today made his weekly appearance in the Representative Council to answer questions from the members of the Council. In addition the King had requested, and was granted, time to be able to speak to the Council about the situation in Kritamala. "Several weeks ago we committed to helping the people of Kritamala via the International Humanitarian Corps. We have assets from Duke Legion, the Air Force and Royal Marines currently in theatre alongside service men and woman from our former CNN allies, Lodja and Ui Cenneslaig. The operation has so far seen the three nations deploy with different objectives which were reached with the help of local provisional government members. Our forces have been assigned to helping secure the capital which was all but forcibly abandoned around five years ago. Local troops tell us that the city at one time was home to some 2million people but current estimates put that figure at less than 25,000. So far our troops have secured the airport and established a forward operations base in the capital. Sadly it has been confirmed that we have come into contact with the Kaiju Virus, something we first encounted in Safraen almost a decade ago."

The King was asked what steps were being taken to protect members of the Armed Forces in Kritamala. "We regularly practice for incidents that require biosecurity. Be that from a terrorist attack, foreign incursion or natural outbreaks. Our people in Kritamala are well versed therefore in how to protect themselves and we've ensured extra equipment to protect them is being shipped. We are also beginning to look at some form of screening upon their return to East Moreland to ensure that the virus does not and can not reach our shores by accident. We have even seen the Air Force introduce their Process Quebec India which is a system where returning air crews spend 48 hours isolated from the rest of the base while screened for things such as high temperatures etc. I am confident that we will be more than able to ensure our armed forces are not impacted by this virus."

Next the King was asked about the possibility of refugees from Kritamala. "To date we have no applications for refugee status. I have though told Tammana Rai, their intrim leader, that should a medical need arise then we would consider bringing their people here for treatment. At present we have not seen any cases that between our contingents or local assets would require removal to an East Moreland hospital. That being said and with the Kaiju threat we have a provision that the facility at Hunters Vale will be re-opened and that is capable of handling high dependency medical cases and complex cases. The situation in the nation beyond the chaos of the leadership falling vacant and years of isolation and neglect brought about by misguided political management is stable. We have had no reports of any physical attacks or incidents that make me believe that we would expect to see an influx of refugees. Should that situation change of course I will update the Council as we go and I assure you that we have the capacity and resources prepared to handle the problem."

National Conservative Party leader Jocelyn Warren asked the King why it seemed the IHC was not attracting more activity. "I am confident that when nations see the success that East Moreland, Ui Cenneslaig and Lodja have in their operations in Kritamala others will see the value of the IHC. In many ways this operation is the crowning glory of the CNN, it is the former members of that body showing that even while no longer tied in a body born out of fear of the global situation, the ideals of brotherhood, humanitarianism and simply doing the right thing is alive and well. I have no hestitation putting our people on the ground to do this work. Defending and helping those in need is our highest calling and the teachings of Helus do not limit that just to our faith. We will and shall go wherever is needed to help those left hungry, ill or weak by people with little or no respect for the needs of others. If we undertake 100 of these operations and on every single one its just East Moreland I will stand by the IHC as something I am proud that when people look back through history they will see that East Moreland not only stepped up but we tried to give others an avenue for doing so. While it is important to note the IHC is mainly made up of governments we also have some individual businesses funneling aid and support through the body. I am proud to say that over the next week or so OsmanTech will be sending major supplies of drugs for the treatment and prevention of Kaiju. EMAC have begun making their own transport aircraft and crews available to us to aid in operations there. Walty are on track to deliver 200 water purification stations and generators by the weekend and Henley are ensuring we have enough air transportable trucks to ensure a steady flow of aid. This is an operation unlike any I have ever seen, not only are we dealing with disease, we are dealing with a nation that I see a little of ourselves in. They are poised to rejoin the community of nations, much like we did at the start of my reign. I for one hope I will have the chance to be the first to welcome them through that metaphorical door."

Finally the King was asked by Lucas Blakeslee, the Chief Councillor, what kind of post IHC operations aid East Moreland would be offering. "That is something we will explore but I can't put a figure or example before you at the moment. The situation on the ground still contains many unknowns. Rest assured though we shall be looking at putting in place support that is beneficial to Kritamala, be that through a series of trade talks or more dramatically a larger and more long term aid package. We helped Safraen rebuild a decade ago and then when needed we went back and ensured the Soviets couldn't undo what we'd done, we also saw our way to ensure that East Safraen eventually was restored to the same standard as its non-Sovietised brethren. I think the people of Kritamala will feel reassured looking at our track record. Nya Aland, Safraen, Mavrosia, the list goes on, these are all places we've done what we can to ensure the people their are able to thrive and not just survive. I'm excited at what Kritamala can bring to the world. Any nation that can endure their past decade and emerge with such hope and resilience is a nation I hope East Moreland will call friend in the very near future."

The King also spoke to the Council about the recent attack on his daughter, Princess Rhiannon. "Rhiannon is doing well. She's a strong willed young lady who knows and appreciates that one day she will be stood here addressing perhaps your children. With that she knows comes certain problems and circumstances most girls her age will never face. We're ensuring that for now however she feels safe and loved. I know she would like to thank the nation for its support and concern. We hope she will be returning to school in person this week and getting back into a routine. While she is a Princess I also want her to experience a relatively normal childhood. I know personally when I was her age my father, with every good intention, had me too isolated and there are many things I know I missed out on that the average lad my age got to experience. I hope that isn't the case for Rhiannon. In terms of the identity of the attackers we are still carrying out investigations and unfortunately that is all I can report at this moment."