Anderson Francis had held the title of "Archbishop of the Blood" for the last 8 years and in that time had not had the need to appoint any Bishops. The faith of the Christian Prophets was sadly not one with what could be described a global following. Hozland was the bastion of the faithful and dotted across Mundus were just merely outcrops of belief mainly sitting alongside their Christian counterparts. For the most part the faiths could be considered compatible save for a few relatively minor differences including the most major, the leadership of the faith. While Christians followed their Pope or in some cases monarchs or other local leaders the Christian Prophets believed that their leader was selected from a chain of unbroken Archbishops dating back to Simeon of Jerusalem. Yesterday he had held a service in the Cathedral at Mahlham attended by a great number of worshippers, among them members of the royal family who were considered protectors of the faith.

Today he had been joined on his flight to the Allied States by Princess Helena who was representing the royals of Hozland. King John had wanted to come but with the invite coming from the Chief Steward and not the ASA's Head of State he didn't think it appropriate to go forcing almost a state visit. She would be here merely to observe and pass on the families best wishes to whoever ended up in the position of Bishop.

Prince Rupert has today taken part in two important ceremonies in the capital. The day began when the Prince was invested as the new Duke of Kirkby Hazlewood making him the first noble to hold two Dukedoms in Hozland since the 14th Century. The Duke also holds the title of Duke of Beaucastle. The residents of the town of Kirkby Hazlewood are said to have pushed for the Prince to become their new Duke following the death of Duke Lucas Wiley who had no obvious next of kin. The town became a key battle site during the civil war that ended in 2021 with its successful defence being a key turning point. It was during this time that Prince Rupert was a soldier in the Royal Logistics Corps who was cited several times for bravery for leading his unit to "plug gaps" in the front lines and evacuate both wounded soldiers and civilians. He was based in the town for six months and many of the locals formed a strong connection to the young royal and the units fighting in the region. The Duke was invested as the Duke of Kirkby Hazlewood during a ceremony witnessed by his family, members of the armed forces, other Dukes and representatives of the people of his new Dukedom. This took place at the Basillica of St.George, a saint deemed to be close to the heart of the Prince. Speaking to the media after the ceremony Prince Rupert stated, "While I may have been born in Mahlham and hold the title of Duke of Beaucastle by being heir to the throne I am more honoured than ever to be Duke of Kirkby Hazlewood. During the most difficult time in my life the people there looked out for us and shared our hardship. I am proud that I can now be there Duke and rest assured I shall be a frequent visitor to the town." While the initial decision to make the Prince the Duke had been made in the New Years Honours list there had been various delays as the King had asked historians to consider the implications of the measure. King John presided over the ceremony and later said. "The family our proud of Rupert. He has proven to be a soldier the nation can be proud of and has served the Kingdom in our time of need. He has always spoke fondly of the town, its people and his connection there. While the title of Duke is largely symbolic in this day and age I know Rupert will want his relationship there to be deeper."

From that ceremony the Prince travelled to the Cathedral of St.Michael where the 2023 intake of the armed forces Chaplains were officially ordained. The 37 men have all completed a 28 week military training programme and a two year learning programme to allow them to minister to the faithful of the armed forces. The Chaplains fulfil the role of ensuring the spiritual needs of the nations military are meet as well as acting as a form of counsillor and adviser for the men their serve alongside. The men were each presented with their golden cross emblem for their uniform as well as taking their oath of loyalty to the Kingdom. The Prince presented each of the new Chaplains with a new copy of the Christian Prophets Bible and a crucifix. The Prince spoke to the group saying "While many see a nations military and judge it on what weapons it has and its size its important that we need to make sure those that serve are doing Gods will. I know at times during the civil war I needed a wise and caring ear to speak to and more often than not it was the Chaplains. I'm grateful for their service and wish these men well."

The Prince is expected to visit Vanora in the coming days to visit several sites holy to the Christian Prophets on behalf of the Kingdom.

The King looked at the image and found himself smiling, not because he was pleased with the suggestion but because he was trying to imagine living on such a facility. Perhaps this would be a positing for some relatively new diplomat being given a chance to learn the ropes with a relatively straight forward friendship while also showing their dedication by living in such circumstances. It was though a good idea. "I like the idea. Its rather unique but it would ensure that we have a very clear defined route of discussion between us. Its a really important thing for us moving forward so I will naturally support it and if needed I'd be willing to contribute the money to pay our share of the project."

John knew the system in Reenburg was rather complex but he also knew that all paths to dealing in that nation went through Lottie. "I'd be happy to explore some Free Trade Zones, perhaps if we nominate a place on our side of the lake while you nominate one on yours, these locations would act as a funnel, any good entering through them would be exempt import tax or some other kind of concessions. From that point onwards the goods would be treated as domestic. Is that the kind of arrangement that you wanted?"

1 x Absalom Class Aircraft Carrier.

1. Simeon

2 x Achaia Class Amphibious Warfare Ships.

1. Anna
2. Antipas

4 x Samaria Class Missile Subs

1. Archipus
2. Bartholomew
3. Caius
4. Candida

4 x Sardis Attack Subs

1. Carpus
2. Celsus
3. Crescentius
4. Dionysius

5 x Gabbatha Class Destroyer

1. Epitacius
2. Euprepius
3. Gamaliel
4. Gorgonius
5. Joseph

6 x Machpela Class Multi-Role Frigate

1. Jude
2. Lambert
3. Lazarus
4. Longinus
5. Lydia
6. Martha

4 x Cabul Class Corvette

1. Mary
2. Matthew
3. Nazarius
4. Nicodemus

4 x Macedonia Class Mine warfare ship

1. Prisca
2. Pudens
3. Quadratus
4. Thecla

7 x Palestine Class Patrol Ship

1. Veronica
2. Muirgen
3. Joachim
4. John
5. Dismas
6. Stephen
7. Pancras

Settlements across the nation have over the last few days been celebrating Easter. The Christian Prophets, like mainstream Christian denominations, believe that this is the week when the final days of the life of Jesus took place and solemn celebrations have taken place across Mundus. In Hozland however the followers of the Christian Prophets believe this is also the time of the religions birth. While most Christians believe that Jesus crucifixion and resurrection are vital parts of their faith members of the Prophets believe that following the death and ascension of Jesus his siblings maintained authority of Mundus and continued to establish Gods wishes in this world. It is believed Simeon of Jerusalem created a bloodline that can still be traced today and that this person, and not the Pope, is the Christian authority on Mundus. On this date it is believed Simeon assumed his authority and as a result the faithful celebrate. Across the nation bonfires were lit to represent both the resurrection of Jesus and the "light of the Prophets being ignited." Services took place in every Church across the nation with the royal family attending the service in the Cathedral on the island of Cyningney.

 

Cyningney Island marks the border between Hozland and the Charterlands. It was the only part of the Kingdom where Parliament approval wasn't needed for Royal Decrees. It was literally the case that the Kings word here was law. It was the Harbour Palace that was destined to be the venue for the meeting between Lady Charlotte and King John. Despite the two nations being neighbours the two leaders had never meet face to face. First their had been the three year long civil war and then Lady Charlotte and the King had been focused on their own internal affairs. Things had been left to minions to sort out but now there would be the first face to face formal visit between the two. The harbour had been set up for the arrival of Lady Charlotte and a large crowd had gathered to see the historic meeting.

The annual Christmas service in the National Chapel at Mahlham has taken place. The National Chapel is one the location of the oldest place of worship within the nation and while today not the largest it is considered the most significant as the royal family often attend services. With Christmas celebrations underway across the Kingdom the royal family visited for services. During the service King John V read from the preachings of Saint Jude who is members of the Christian Prophets view as one of the brothers of Jesus Christ. It is common that the royal family take a role within worship with Queen Emma playing trumpet during several of the carols sung while Princess Helena was part of the choir. Prince Rupert attended the ceremony in the uniform of the Kings Household Fusilliars in which he is currently serving as a Captain. The Prince was in command of the colour party parading the standard of St.George which represents the whole of Hozlands military. A selected audience of around 200 members of the public who had applied to attend and had been security cleared were also present. Only Prince Mark did not attend in accordance with royal protocol of all royals not attending public occasions together.

During the service the annual Christmas Honours list was put on display and as expected Prince Rupert shall be named the new Duke of Kirkby. During the Civil War of 2018 the Prince fought a valiant defensive action near the town and then following this success garrisoned the settlement for a number of months against enemy raids. During this time he became a well liked figure among the locals and following the tragic death of childless Duke Lucas the title reverted to the crown. It is understood that the Prince actively petitioned his father to give him the title and while all the royals are also holders of Dukedoms there has been no occasion that a Prince has held two area unless married. The Prince is already, as heir, both the Duke of Beaucastle and also the Prince of Gretland the Principality having been annexed in the 1630's. The local mayor of Kirkby said "We are thrilled at the news of the Princes appointment as our Duke. While the role holds no power beyond granting its holder a seat in the House of Nobles we take pride in who represents us. To have the Prince in that position is a blessing as we know the affection he holds the town and surronding area in. We look forward to welcoming him here as soon as possible and while we know he is also the Duke of Beaucastle we hope he will make a home here where he is loved."

The Prince thanked the Mayor for his kind words and said. "Kirkby is a town I always enjoy spending time in. Sadly my military and royal duties usually dictate where I call home but rest assured I plan to be a very frequent visitor to Kirkby and already have some ideas for the community." One such idea was posted on the Prince's social media accounts shortly after saying that he had got the Universities of Kirkby and the University of Beaucastle to agree to a sporting weekend known as the Dukes Trophy. "Every summer the two Universities will, at my expense, take it in turns hosting a kind of mini-Mundus Games between them. The winning team taking possession of the Dukes Trophy. It is my hope these two communities can become friends and despite geography be like siblings. I look forward to the first of these events."

Cyningney Island is one of several administrative centres within the Kingdom of Hozland. It sits on the lake on the boarder between Hozland and the Charterlands and is home traditionally to the Royal families personal holdings. The island is home to around 200 people and can be visited by tourists with the exception of the area to the North of the railway lines which is still reserved for the royals private holding. The southern parts of the island feature 17th Century homes and a marina that houses a Naval unit responsible for helping patrol the Lake and provide security for the royals. Today it was announced that the island had gone seven days without drawing any power from the national grid. In a statement from the office of King John V it was confirmed that, "Over the past five years we've sought to use a combination of solar on the island, off shore wind and hyrdoelectric from the feeder river for the lake. In addition we have also attempted to install throughout the island measures to cut electricity usage. We have now managed to go a whole week without drawing a single watt from the main grid. This is a great step forward both in terms of setting an example of what can be achieved but also in terms of security. Regardless of what happens elsewhere within the Kingdom we now have an area that without any logistical changes needing to take place the government can operate."

The island will also soon host talks between the CharterLord of Reenberg and King John as the Palace confirmed "The Charterlands are interesting neighbours and Lady Charlotte and King John have yet to formally meet face to face. There are many matters that would benefit us from talking about and the King has issued a formal invitation to Lady Charlotte to visit Cyningney Island to discuss them." No date has been announced for the talks however but the closeness of the two nations geographically means such a meeting can take place quickly.

---

Two months ago Duke Lucas of Kirkby died at the age of 41 with no obvious heir. As his Dukedom had to be inherited by direct family the title will be returned to the crown. While the Dukedom is centred on the market town of Kirkby it contains around 10km to the East of the town the village of Kirkby Hazelwood, famed for being the location of a decisive battle in the 2018 Civil War. During this battle Prince Rupert was on several occasions nominated for bravery awards and honours. With the Dukedom now coming  unclaimed many locals have called for the Prince to be given the title. Among those calling for him to take the title is Mayor Elise Rennley who explained why there is support for this. "The Prince helped ensure that the area was safe during the war and built up a strong relationship with the residents of Kirkby Hazelwood, especially those who his unit evacuated during the fierce fighting. Out of all the people who could get the title the Prince would be an excellent choice."

There are however unwritten rules that no-one should hold more than one Dukedom and with the Prince holding the title of Duke of Beaucastle it is thought unlikely he would be granted this title as well.

Dear Emperor Marco

I am writing to you to invite you to meet with myself during our annual pilgrimage to the Holy Land. While we are not of the Catholic faith like yourself we still love and praise God and Jesus Christ. I think that this foundation is one that would allow our nations to build a great friendship. I hope that you will join us in Jerusalem where we can discuss a great number of things that could benefit each of us.

We are hopeful of your attendance.

Best Regards

King John V of Hozland

Mark is the youngest of the children of King John and Queen Emma. He was born in 2000.

As is tradition among male members of the family he joined St. James Boys School in Mahlham and was a Schools Swimming Champion in short distance races.

Based on his sporting achievements he was offered a place at the National Institute of Sport. He accepted and began studying Business Management. In his 1st year he tore his pectoral muscle badly and was out of action for 8 months. Upon his return to the pool it was clear he had lost much of his speed. He has since switched to long distances but has yet to achieve any victories. He has begun considering dropping swimming as a potential future endeavour and instead is focusing on joining the military.

In 2021 he passed his Bachelors degree and began studying a Masters.

He has applied to join the Air Force and if successful would be the first royal to serve within the service.

He is currently being considered as the natural replacement heir to maintain the family bloodline. Meanwhile his sister is being prepared as a back up. This came about because his older brother, Prince Rupert, has outed himself as homosexual to the family but not the public.

 

Rupert is the eldest child of King John and Queen Emma. He was born in 1996.

He attended  St. James Boys School in Mahlham before dropping out of University in his first year in 2014.

After dropping out of University he enrolled in the Armed Forces. Despite passing Paratrooper training his father prevented him deploying into the Regiment and so instead he found himself attached to the Kings Logistics Regiment responsible for maintaining supply lines. He proved to be an efficent soldier however earned the ire of his platoon as they were given largely ceremonial and base based actvities.

When the civil war began in 2018 he was kept well away from the fighting. In 2021 however his unit were running supplies to an area of the front considered safe when the village of  Kirkby Hazelwood came under attack. The village was an unlikely target for a "Crusader" advance, the Prince lead his unit into the front line to repel an enemy attack and protect civilians and his commanding officer mentioned him in dispatches for leading a rear guard action as they evacuated civilians. The Prince then remained in the field for a further three weeks in the  Kirkby Hazelwood area first holding the defensive line and then a counter attack where he was twice cited for bravery. Following the end of the Civil War he had earned a reputation as a good soldier who was highly respected by his comrades.

Despite ending the Civil War as somewhat of a nation hero he has faced issues from within the family after admitting to being homosexual. As the nation is highly conservative and there is a great emphasis on a bloodline continuing Rupert is under pressure to marry a noble woman despite his own sexuality and produce children. While he has yet to publically come out there are several rumours.

The Prince currently is serving as a Captain in the Kings Household Fusilliars, a Light Infantry Unit.

The current King of Hozland.

He was born in 1974 and inherited the throne in 2017.

He is married to Lady Emma Walesby since 1994.

The couple have three children Prince Rupert who was born in 1996, Princess Helena who was born in 1998 and Prince Mark who was born in 2000.

His father, King Arthur II, was a traditionalist and so had his son educated at the St. James Boys School in Mahlham. Following secondary education he attended the University of Wainbridge where he graduated with a 2:2 in Law.

In 1996 he enrolled in the Royal Navy and served until 2002 as an officer on-board coastal patrol ships.

Following departure from the Navy he sat in the House of Nobility until becoming King.

One of his first duties as King was dealing with the uprising of the "Crusaders" a fundementalist group that waged what some commentators have called a civil war until 17th July 2021. The three years of on and off sporadic battles and assaults left a serious mark upon the nation that he has begun to deal with.

When given time to spare the King enjoys yachting and hunting. He is a collector of antique firearms and is said to have a collection of over 2,000 weapons in his collection.

HISTORY

The Kingdom was more or less established in its current geographic size in the early 1610's when the supposed heretical Prince Henry successfully won a civil war against his father. Henry was the younger of two sons of King Peter IV however had been "seduced" by the teachings of the Christian Prophets a faith that had grown strongly in the West of the nation but had been labelled heretical by King Peter IV. Having won the Civil War Henry named himself King and had his father and brother sent into exile, when both later tried mounting plots against him Henry had them both assassinated. From that day forward the descendants of Henry have ruled the nation and the Christian Prophets have become the leading religion.

In the  1630's Henry attempted to add the region of Gretland to his Kingdom and thus began a war that lasted five years. This was successful and for a short time until Henry's death he called himself Emperor. Upon his death his son Thomas III became ruler and made Gretland a Principality while reverting to being simply King of Hozland. While Gretland was a traditional Christian nation the two neighbours clashed periodically until the 1730's when the then King William II established a Religious Settlement Act that established a system that ensured religious freedom for all and then removed the Royal Family from involvement with the other Christian denominations outside the Christian Prophets.

In the 1990's a outspoken religious leader by the name of Adam Pageland established an organisation that at first seemed intent on preaching to try and convert people to the Christian Prophets but by the end of the decade he'd begun telling his followers to prepare for a "Crusade in the name of the Prophets." This saw occasional terror attacks and skirmishes with the government. This was coupled with attempts by a seemingly seperate Conservative Prophet Alliance (CPA) political party trying to gain seats. The CPA struggled to get seats as many saw the clear link with the "Crusaders". In the early 2010's Adam Pageland died and then was succeeded by his son Noah who called for a more aggressive response to bring about "the purity of first Hozland and then the world." By 2018 the "Crusaders" had become strong enough to field 400,000 armed militia men and women who launched a series of organised raids across the nation. They captured the town of Kirkby and established what they called the Holy Kingdom of the Prophets. This began what was a three year long civil war that saw various attrocities in the Holy Kingdom controlled territories. On 17th July 2021 the Battle of Kirkby Hazelwood brought the war to a close having seen close to 250,000 civilian casualties and around a further 120,000 military casualties.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

Population - 87,200,000
Capital City - Mahlham
GDP per Capita - $27,800
System of Government - Parliamentary Monarchy
Head of State - King John V
Head of Government - Prime Minister William Clifford

GOVERNMENT

The nation is administered by the Royal Family with approval by a Parliament. To make a law the monarch must present Parliaments lower house with a Royal Proposition, The House of Loyal Subjects is elected every four years via a system of first past the post. A total of 503 seats exists. If a Royal Proposition gains the support of the majority of the House of Loyal Subjects it passes to the upper house known as the House of the Nobility, this is made up of 220 seats, half of which picked by the Royal Family and half by an election. If this body passes the Royal Proposition it enters law. If the House of Loyal Subjects rejects the Royal Proposition then its leader, the Prime Minister may amend it however they see fit, this is then voted on by the House of Loyal Subjects and if it gains a majority continues as before but is known a Loyal Proposition. If the House of Nobility reject a Royal or Loyal Proposition then the leading elected member may draft an amendment known now as a Noble Proposition. This is then voted on by the House of Nobility and the House of Loyal Subjects in a single sitting. If it passes then the monarch must either pass it into law or pass it to referendum.