Lewis was born in 1979 in the East Moreland city of Portworth. As a kid he was a little bit of a delinquent and by the time he was 12 he had been arrested four times for stealing sailing boats from various marinas around the city. His parents were both alcoholic and as a result Lewis spent very little time at school. When he was caught for the fifth time trying on this occasion to steal a small motorboat he was put before the local magistrate who rather than sentencing him to community service gave him a choice of two years in a youth detention centre or attending Navy Cadets for a period of 12 months and gaining a satisfactory report from the youth groups commanding officer. Lewis was fortunate enough to meet Bruce Christophers, a former Royal Marine Commando who helped run the Cadet group. Christophers ensured Lewis began attending school regularly and helped ensure that he had help maintaining his uniform for Cadets. It also helped that Lewis saw that if he threw himself into the units activities he actually was given regular access to the boats that he longed to have adventures on. At the end of the 12 months he was given an excellent report and the magistrate told Lewis he could now leave Cadets if he wished however it wasn't until reaching the age of 18 that Lewis did. During his time in cadets he earned a vast number of qualifications and awards and still holds the Navy Cadet record for the 1km open water swim.

Despite not being an academically gifted youngster his exemplary report from the Navy Cadets meant that when he reported for national service he was able to choose his own pathway and as such requested to join the Royal Marines. Lewis excelled in basic training and as such in 1997 was sent off to Officer Training College. He served as an officer in the Commando until 2005 when he joined Red Legion. He specialised in amphibious warfare and in 2015 was recruited to head up the Amphibious Warfare Training Course undertaken by all Red Legionnaires. He saw active duty in Seaforth, Royal Seleucid and Lodja.

In May 2023 his term of service reached its end and he was offered a five year extension. He however turned this down after being head hunted by his former commanding officer, Brigadier Richard Kelly, to join his private security business Red-e Security Consultancy. Lewis now leads the Maritime Security Division of the business and offers services aimed at helping ensure merchant shipping can protect themselves.

In 2007 he married Evonne Banks, a surgeon at Aldcliffe Hospital. The two have a daughter born in 2014 called Lara.

As a little boy David had hated the festival. To him it was pointless, Morelanders hardly went anywhere and boats were pretty boring, they just bobbed about and were slow. While he still didn't get the excitement of them the grown up David had grown to love the festival and that growth was reflected in the public too. Tickets for the showgrounds were getting harder and harder to come by and despite pressure from the local council the King had refused to charge more for the tickets, this was a celebration for all Morelanders not just the wealthy. The showgrounds had changed too, the confines of Portworth Naval Base and the nearby Royal Marina could no longer contain the festival but thankfully keenly sensed developers had built newer Marina's in David's 30 years and more of life. Even the neighbouring town of Seabrooke had begun to see some overspill and that was great for the local economy. It was though the last three or four years that had seen a huge boost globally and in some ways David put that down to his wife. She had brought the young keen eyes of the fashionable crowds on Portworth and now the marina was already filling with a variety of rich and celebrity owned yachts, a good number considering the now Queen Stasya a friend.

This morning as the festival was preparing to get underway it was pretty routine. The white water front house with the clock tower that for the rest of the year served as the Commander of the Navies home was handed over to the royals. Admiral James Thompson had instead been spending his nights tucked up onboards the REMNS King Robert as the flagship of the navy. David liked the Admirals House, the doors of the 2nd floor balcony leading directly onto a dockside which was now filling with Royal Marines who would be a large part of the days activities. While today dressed in the black tunics and red trimmed trousers they looked perfect parade ground soldiers however beneath each white peaked cap was a commando proud to serve in the Navy and looking forward to their day. The King woke when the snap of hundreds of feet coming to attention indicated that it was time to get up. He leaned over and gently kissed the shoulder of Stasya, "Time to wake up" he whispered to her and even though she said nothing he could sense she was awake. "I'll get sorted and grab the kids. We'll see you downstairs." He swung himself out of bed and into the shower before dressing in his Alpine Cadre uniform. It was not his normal festival of sail attire but today there were a few things that would be different and a more formal approach would be required in his mind. His advisers had said he should wear his own Admiral of the Fleet uniform but there was just something wrong in his eyes about wearing a uniform he hadn't fought for beside he couldn't ever imagine wearing a uniform other than the black jacket and trousers of the Alpines, he adjusted his cross belt so the rather odd locking cartridge box sat in the middle of his back. Satisfied he donned the white beret.

"Very handsome" Stasya smiled at him from the bathroom door, she crossed and straightened his epulettes before kissing him. "I'll be twenty minutes" she told him. David would have liked the believe that but knew it was much more likely to be 30. He didn't argue and instead made his way down and found Rhiannon already up and about. She was ten years old now and David knew she would have outgrown her love for the Vikings boat but she still seemed excited for the day. She gave her father a good morning hug, she was dressed less casually than she had been in previous years, even she knew today would mark something important. Llewellyn arrived being carried by her auntie, Princess Freya, who like her brother had dressed in military attire which in her case was the 2nd Light Scouts. David smiled and snapped her a salute, he himself wore the rank of a mere Captain today while his sister held Major.

"Good Morning Captain Ironside. I have a Prince for you." She handed Llewellyn over to his father and snapped a salute back. The group stood chatting until Stasya joined them. At first David had concerns about her choice of attire, which was not unusual for the Queen. Today rather than it being the rather risqué nature of the outfit it was the colour scheme. She had opted for a pale blue dress with golden stitching around the neck and sleeves. To the unfamiliar it was just a nice dress however it was similar in palette to that traditionally worn by the Queen of Lodja, Stasya's own native homeland. David knew better than to critique his wife when it came to fashion and so instead complimented on her attire and once Rhiannon had taken hold of her step-mothers hand the family exited onto the quayside. A large crowd had gathered but was kept well back by a security barrier and the parading Marines would have formed a further barrier. The King had no need to tell Stasya to wait for the press to get their shot for tomorrows front covers as she was already ensuring she had spotted the best photographers and made sure to smile directly down their camera. The Marines paid their respects which David returned with a salute and then the family walked down the quayside. At the end of the Admirals garden that ran down the quayside a series of large white marquee tents had been set up, it was here the various VIP's could get breakfast and the royals sat and waited for the REMNS Mess Stewards to take their orders and bring coffee and juices. Even Rhiannon knew today was going to be busy and eagerly tucked into her Rice Crispies, it was going to be such a busy day her father even had given her permission for Coco Pops, a treat for only the most tiring of days. While others filtered into the tent for their own breakfasts the King exchanged only polite waves and nods, there would be a chance for more in depth meetings but there was a sense of nerves in the King.

Once the Rice Crispies had been consumed and David drained the last of his Green Tea it was time to get into position. Along the opposite quayside a large grandstand had been set up, effectively turning it into a kind of makeshift arena. The seats were already filling up and unlike everyone else who had to get past a Red Legion security check, masquerading as Royal Marines much to Sgt.Olly Thomas annoyance, before they could take a seat. It was a blessed day, the sun was up and not much wind and while that could be a problem for some of the sail boats the King was confident that Port Master Timothy Doben would have everything in order. Quiet likely even now out at the rendevous point out in the Mhorish he would be moving hundreds of ships ranging from large historical sail boats to modern day aircraft carriers into position. The parade of boats was a highlight for many and while it would still be around half an hour before the ships reached the sight of those attending the ceremony people sat on the approach beaches would already be waving at the passing ships.

The sight of tall ships like RNS Aggressor and Kaiwo-maru where the audiences first clue that the ships were close. Their masts visible above some of the more modern ships like the IMS Jehoiakim gave a real sense of just how much change had taken place. Doben had placed the replica of the HIMS Insolent at the lead of the tall masted ships, he knew King David's love of history and the romantic legend that went with it would be something that would please the King. Once the historic vessels, some needing a bit of held from tugs or local trawlers, had passed the various military ships came along. For many seeing Achkaerin's INS Rhyth Icerider brought back memories of the Lodjain conflict, a ship similar in shape, the Lodjain "Morelander" had gone rogue and been one of the first Moreland built ships in many decades to sink. A few who had been there in the Alucard for that battle muttered prayers of sorts wishing the Achkaerin sailors onboard better luck. The civilian ships were headed by the twin Rokkenjiman vessels, the HMY Austrana and United States while the final ship in that section was what Rhiannon called a rather "sweet looking" Akatatsu-maru. There was one final vessel. Traditionally the last ship in the parade hung a red lantern across its stern, today however there was no need. Apollo's Beacon shone its own inbuilt red light that even in the sun of the morning light could still be seen blinking steadily on and off. As the ships got closer to shore several kayakers and entusiastic locals in their own small sail boats got close and one or two nearly came to mischief when not heeding the calls of the marshals, especially when it came to the nimble vessels of Achkaerin's Mermaids who had been given permission to ride as almost outriders doing dives and leaps like dolphins alongside the parade. As the ships made the turn towards land they formed two columns, one heading for each arm of the large naval base. Only three ships proceeded towards the centre. REMNS King Robert as the nations flagship was in the centre of the three while to its starboard the "mega-yacht", Iskorian owned by the Pelagiya family, to the portside a sight that brought delight to the King, a river steamer from Ostlake. The King had been told it would only be here if the sea was calm and even now with the help of being slightly ahead of the other two it was not looking the most comfortable of rides. The three ships were able to tie up and a single figure appeared off each. A whistle blew a series of notes indicating they could approach. The three figures moved forward and meet just in front of the grandstand, in a dress almost matching Stasya's own was Queen Natalya of Lodja, in the centre a uniformed Alex Redfern in Red Legion dress attire and the final in a a smart suit but dirty leather apron Maxwell Power, the Royal Smith. The King stood and gave Natalya a bow, she had kindly agreed to be part of this slightly adapted opening. David waited for his press secretary Malcolm Tucker to check the microphone before he could address the crowd.

"I would normally begin today by saying welcome to the many hundred and something version of the Festival of Sail. Today though is for me something much more special. Today I am able to turn the tables on Lodja. I am fortunate, not also saddened, to have been part of three coronations in Lodja, this is an honour not before extended to a foreigner and while I wish I had only once undertaken this solemn but special duty I am delighted to welcome Queen Natalya here. Today she is helping us mark a special occasion in the life of my own family. Prince Llewellyn is now 18 months old which means I have just six months to ensure my duties as a father are completed in preparing him for his childhood. To a Morelander that means having a sword, something to practice and grow with when the time is right. Llewellyn though is a first for East Moreland, he is a child born of two lands. While he is a Morelander Prince he is also tied forever to Lodja and the Queen and myself want him to know both lands, both people and both cultures. We are therefore proud to hand the proceedings to Queen Natalya." The Lodjain monarch came forward and at the foot on the steps to the grandstand took a small purple cushion off of one of her strategically placed Ladies in Waiting. The Queen ascended to grandstand stage and approached the microphone.

"The ties between East Moreland and Lodja are stronger in my mind than any on Mundus. They are ties not built by diplomacy, by politics or money, they are ties built by love. That love is symbolised by the union of King David and one of my greatest friends Queen Stasya. That bond recently played out that our forces, for the first time in history, fought side by side to defeat an evil facing my people. During that time Lodjains knew our friends in East Moreland, as well as those of our CNN friends, Achkaerin and our new friends in Aosta would not allow evil to win and we are grateful for that. This is why I was so happy to be asked to do this. In Lodja a noble child becomes upon their birth a Patrician, an individual marked by our Gods and expected to lead those in their care to a better life. Our faith may differ but that duty is one Sessifet and Helus value. Prince Llewellyn may well be a Prince of East Moreland but he is also a Patrician of Lodja and today I present him with a symbol of that rank." The cushion had a silver bracelet, much too big for the child, in its centre. A pair of small red stones were placed in its band worked to sit as eyes upon a outline of a Honeybadger. The Queen gently took Llewellyn arms and slid the bracelet on making sure it didn't fall of. She placed a brushing kiss on the childs head as David held him. The King and Queen exchanged words and then David handed her the child as she made her way to stand next to Stasya.

David returned to the microphone. "The ceremony begins with me accepting my sword, today though I will be joined by my daughter for the first time." Rhiannon almost skipped forward to stand beside her father. "She one day will stand here in my place and take her own sword. Today though she will be acting as the Protector of the Sword, a position held by someone who will care for the sword of a child until they are ready to wield it themselves. My daughter has shown she's a fine swords woman herself and is an incredible big sister. When the time comes I know she will also be a great teacher for her brother." The crowd cheered loudly, Rhiannon was beloved by the people, partly because of the tragedy of her twin brother Caspian but also because of the fact she and Prince Augustin of Neu Urburzis had, at the age of six, "fought" Crocodiles in an aquarium to save Augustins pet rabbit Snufflechen. On cue Redfern and Maxwell headed towards the King with Redfern holding the Kings, a large straight edged cavalry sword ahead of him unsheathed. Max held on the flat of his palms a small sword, it would never do for an adult but that wasn't the point. The King had collected the raw materials himself from the Gods Forge here in Portworth and to the King this presentation was almost the sword returning home. Redfern offered the King his own sword and David accepted it, gave his friend a sweeping salute with it before ritualistically replacing it in the scabbard on his hip. At the same time Rhiannon took the sword from Maxwell and unsheathed it, she held it up the light inspecting it. Like her own blade had the date of birth was etched onto the blade which ran into a dark blue handle. The sword would likely last Llewellyn until he was a teenager and then like Rhiannon would soon he'd choose his own blade. Rhiannon checked the area around and her and sure no ones was closeby gave it a few swipes and swings. She then loudly spoke. "The sword is more than fitting for a Prince" Maxwell smiled acknowledging the words. Rhiannon sheathed the sword, turned and presented it to her father who attached it to his own belt and handed Rhiannon a small leather pouch which she couriered to Maxwell. "Payment in full for the work of a smith fit for Jekar" she declared and handed him the 112 silver coins.

"Thank you Your Highness" Maxwell winked at Rhiannon who had spent several hours watching him make the sword.

The crowd once again applauded and David spoke. "All that is left is for me to thank the men and women who serve in our Navy for their duty. I also want us to thank those who stood alongside them in Lodja and anyone who serves in the navies of the world ensuring the safety of the innocent on the seas. Today marks a day we celebrate the seas, for Morelanders they once stood as a barrier, a defence to keep out an imagined evil. Today they stand as a roadway leading old friends and new to join us as we try and build a better future not just for Morelanders but for the world. I wish each of you a happy Festival and fair seas." The King breathed a sigh of relief as his first task was done, the Festival was done and now he could enjoy himself a little. The family made their way back to the large tent, no doubt his Head of Household would have meetings and the like to keep him busy but that was usually more relaxed. As they returned to the tent Matilda Osman, the Kings divorced wife and mother of Rhiannon was waiting. As agreed she'd get day one of the festival this year with their daughter now that her own duties were over. The step-brother of Rhiannon, Oliver, was propped up in a wheel chair because of his Hunter Syndrome, his eyes though lit up when he saw his big sister who hugged him and begged her father to let her show him Llewellyn sword. David agreed and handed her the blade keeping careful watch as he and Matilda discussed parental matters for a few minutes, David would return to the Festival grounds each day and tomorrow he would be here with her so it was more a case of who was taking her to what, naturally as King it was David who could get access to some of the more unique parts and so Matilda was going to head to the Viking ship as Rhiannon wanted to discuss Axe V's Sword fighting but then she wanted to see Akatatsu-maru up close. Matilda first though wanted to get them drinks as she knew it could be a long day. They sat at the table next to David, Stasya and the other Ironsides and David smiled as he could hear Rhiannon gently explaining the story of Jekar making the first sword to the four year old Oliver.

The tables began to fill with various members of the East Moreland nobility, government and business worlds. It was a great chance to network but also for Sir Harry Samuelson to have his Hobbit like 2nd breakfast of grilled Mackrel on toast. On the table next to him Jocelyn Hopkins sat with a plate of toast and a sketch book in which she gently shaded a sketch as "Royal Artist in Residence" she would try and produce something for todays unique ceremony and for now was in her own little world. David would enjoy a 2nd Green Tea, wait for Rhiannon to go see her Vikings and then be about his own day, he had a feeling it was going to be a busy but rewarding day.

The arrangement that Eijirō had put forward about lowering tariffs seemed rather one sided, East Moreland would likely be the ones doing the importing of those products and as a result an agreement to allow them in tariff free would benefit those selling them. East Moreland had options of where to purchase these and a tariff free arrangement was giving Daito an advantage. The talk then of applying for a licence and not being told there was a certainty was not much of a come back. David thought for a moment. "While I have the luxury of not needing to consult a council of any kind on this matter I would normally at this point be happy to agree to lower tariffs but with the exception of agricultural products there is not much for a Morelander to celebrate. Companies like OsmanTech setting up in your nation to avoid some of the rules forced by our religion is likely to benefit your nation too. I'd also be looking at something being lowered that is of use to us, for example processed food products, pharmaceuticals, and potentially heavy engineering machinery, although that depends on your own economic needs. "

In Achkaerin yesterday Cardinal Deed conducted a midweek online worship. During this he offered the chance for those online to take the sacrament. The move has however sparked controversey as some Catholics believe that the move is not compatible with traditional Catholic doctrine. During a visit to Marseille the Pope spoke to the media giving his view on the actions of Cardinal Deeds.

 "I understand Cardinal Deed's desire to reach as many people as possible with the sacrament of the Eucharist. The digital revolution has made it possible to do this in a way that was not possible before. However, I believe that the Eucharist is a sacred mystery that is best celebrated in the physical presence of the community. When we gather together to share in the bread and wine, we are not just participating in a ritual, but we are entering into the presence of Christ himself. This is a profound experience that cannot be replicated online.  "I am not saying that online worship is not valuable. It can be a way to connect with people who are unable to attend Mass in person. However, I believe that the Eucharist is a sacrament that is meant to be celebrated in the flesh. When we gather together to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, we are not just receiving a symbol, but we are entering into a real relationship with the living God."

---

At sunrise this morning in Marseille a group of armed men appeared on the streets and began marching towards the Troyes military base owned by Seaforth. The group calling themselves "The New Real Marseille" then proceeded to sit in the middle of the road blocking access in and out of the base. Meanwhile a fleet of four fishing trawlers have anchored themselves on the approach to the base for naval vessels. As security services for the city appeared a stand off was witnessed. While the Seaforthian authorities mobilised the Troyes Defence Service (TDS), a force designed to bolster Seaforthian military in times of crisis its members either refused to attend the incident or actively joined with those blocking roads. The local council, which is controlled by pro-Marseille parties, also refused to get involved and their workers have announced a continious week of strikes.

The leader of "The New Real Marseille" is Alain Doucare who said, "We are true patriots, many of us where in Jean Pierre Cantona's Real Marseille where we refused to allow our nation to be occupied by the Sorority. We completed that duty to remove that evil and while nations like Seaforth, Achkaerin, East Moreland and Nya Aland helped us only Seaforth remain. They are a guest who has well overstayed their welcome and now if they don't get the hint they'll be kicked out." The stand off continues as it is clear Seaforthian Armed Forces at the base have increased security on their perimeter.

EMAC have announced that at the opening day of the Festival of Sail they intend to showcase a "testbed model" that could become the worlds first supersonic submarine. Sir Alan Maybury, the CEO of EMAC explained the project saying. "We have already worked with Grayson Dockyards to help make torpedo's for the Navy, our current collaboration has seen speeds of around 200mph achievable. It is our belief however that we can, in true EMAC style, go much faster." The company have shared a concept image for what they are calling the Underwater Supercavitating Weapon System and Vehicle (USWSV) which appeared to show a rather unique shaped torpedo however as of yet no one has seen the prototype. Sir Alan explained the concept saying, "The USWSV would contain some kind of warhead and power source as a traditional torpedo would, what makes this capable of high speeds is the fact that it contains a tank of gas which is expelled through ports to make a kind of bubble, by travelling in this bubble they can travel at much higher speeds and in theory reach supersonic speeds. Once we master the idea with a torpedo we would be able to make this into a vehicle." Sir Alan points out that the vehicle would not be able to keep a high speed for sustained periods but could potentially be used for helping escape enemy forces or carry out hit and run attacks. By Sir Alan's own admission though the completion date for the project is some way of, potentially not until the 2040's. He did however say "We can not be put off trying to advance technology just because the completion dates are way off in the future, on every project we learn more and more and this helps us in other projects."

The test is scheduled to take place prior to the main parade of ships into Portworth. If successful Sir Alan has stated that he hopes to conduct a wide variety of tests over the coming months. It is believed that these could lead EMAC to be able to claim to have made the fastest underwater "Vehicle" to have ever existed.

---

Matthew Howse, the Duke of Winterhaven, has today been named as the new CNN Envoy. The role has previously not been seen as a permanent position but has instead been held by a rotation of individuals dependent on the global situation ranging from Princess Freya to seasoned diplomat Sir Jacob Lange. The King today confirmed the Duke will take the position for "at least the next 12 months" and will relocate to Claith at the end of the Festival of Sail in under to carry out his duties. The role involves mainly acting as a conduit between the four allied nations however has also included leading East Moreland delegations during various discussions. The 30 year old Duke is new to leading roles in global politics however the King explained that he believes the Duke is well equipped for his role.

"Duke Matthew Howse of Winterhaven has accompanied Sir Jacob on several meetings overseas and has been a regular part of East Moreland's sporting communities overseas visits. He has held a seat on our Mundus Games Committee and I believe he will shine as one of the next generation of our diplomats. I am confident he will be an excellent asset for a long time to come and I thank him for taking up this significant role for our nation."

The Duke attended Keepton University to study Law but upon completing his course never took up a training contract and instead entered the military where he served as an officer for five years in the Royal Marine Commando. Since leaving the he became heavily involved in Winterhaven RUFC taking a 75% share of the club in 2018. It was through his involvement with rugby, both representing the Marines and then running Winterhaven he found himself part of the Mundus Games Committee for East Moreland. He is also a frequent analyst on EMTV for their rugby coverage.

I am excited to once again extend an invitation to the governments of Mundus to join us for the annual Festival of Sail. The Festival has been an international event now for many years and we have been delighted to welcome vessels from across the world, both allies and new friends. This year the festival will once again open its doors to the world and we invite nations to display as wide a variety of sea going craft as possible so that we may come together and celebrate the skill, ingenuity and creativity of those who travel the oceans. As usual the festival shall begin with a huge floating parade from the town of Seabrooke, down the Mhorish coast and enter the ports, harbours and marinas of Portworth. Vessels will then be assigned a berth somewhere according to whether you wish the vessel to be accessible to the public. In the past we have been able to accomodate vessels which vendors wish to showcase to potential markets while simulationously allowing top security for those here merely to bring foreign naval service men and women to the festival.

In addition to the Festival member of the East Moreland government will be on hand should anyone wish to discuss matters of a more formal nature and as always there shall the Royal Banquet on the final evening. This year this shall take place just down the coast from Seabrooke in the Ducal Palace which since my wife and myself have restored will host its first formal event.

Should your nation wish to attend and showcase vessels please let us know.

May The Gods Watch Over You and Your Seas Be Calm

King David III of East Moreland.

OOC - As always anyone is free to come along, just would be nice to be able to have a heads up as to what is coming so I can work it into the initial posts and of course if anyone wants to meet King David or some other East Moreland person. You don't have to write a formal reply unless you want to.

East Moreland

1. Medieval MMA
2. Rugby
3. Track and Field

Royal Seleucid

1. Shooting
2. Gymnastics
3. Equestrian

Following the final day of the Ostlake Military Games the Royal East Moreand Naval Service (REMNS) have won the King Robert Trophy. This followed the REMNS dominating the Ostlake Team Challenge taking gold in both the mens and womens events. The Navy also came 3rd in the Drill competition while their closest competitors for the overall title, Ui Cenneslaig, came 6th in the competition. The day began with the swimmers setting off on their 2km open win where unsurprisingly the REMNS womens team took a strong lead thanks to Daisy Greechan who set a new record for the open water portion of the Ostlake Team Challenge. Petty Officer Jessica Madeley ran their fell running leg and scored highly on the shooting portions before a team completed the log run finishing 41 seconds ahead of Pegasus Legion. In the mens version of the event Royal Marine Commandos competed in every leg of the competition and finished just 17 seconds ahead of Red Legion. Admiral James Thompson then watched as his team drawn from Portworth Naval Station finished in the Drill competition which brought the curtain down on this years games. Despite not winning the Drill the team celebrated louder than the Maori team that did knowing they had won the overall competition. The Admiral accepted the Trophy and following the presentation said, "I am proud of the hard work and dedication of the boys and girls that make this possible. To have the trophy once more is a joy and I can't wait to get it in the trophy cabinet down at Portworth. The Ostlake Games have been magnificent again and demonstrates once again that our armed forces have incredible sporting stars and dedicated warriors in every branch of service. I'd like to thank the CNN partners and the Charterlands for attending this year and wish them safe sails home."

The games have once again provided a boost for the Ostlake economy with hotels, hostels and eateries all being fully booked over the week long games. William Crown is the  owner of Barker Row, a steak restaurant close the the lake side, said that he had been fully booked each dinner service and that he had been booked up weeks in advance. Meanwhile the Crown Lake Hotel reported bumper profits during the week. Over 100 private boats were also moored in the various lake marinas with several having been witnessed hosting large parties during the games.

As is tradition the Games finish with two formal balls. The Enlisted Ball at Ostlake North began at 6pm and King David began the dancing. This year his dance partner was Legionnaire Poppy Stapleton of the Alpine Cadre. The 19 year old switched to the Cadre part way through her national service having determined that she wanted to become a career soldier. She completed her Alpine Cadre final assessment the same day that King David completed the officer version in 2022 as a way of demonstrating his recovery from his back operation. Legionnaire Stapleton said "To serve in the Cadre knowing its the most beloved unit of the King is great, but to then know I share the experience of qualifying with him makes it sweeter. The King was a real gentleman and we chatted about our favourite parts of the Dovehole countryside. He then wished me a pleasant evening and made his way across the lake." Legionnaire Stapleton was also presented with a symbolic "Kings Shilling" as a memento of the evening. The King took a boat across the Lake where he meet Queen Stasya to make his entrance to the Officers Ball at Ostlake South. As usual photographers stood ready to capture the gown of Queen Stasya who appeared alongside the King in a revealing metallic effect gown. The dress was designed by students at the Queens own fashion label and paired with no jewellery. The ball was also attended by several other monarchs including King Finley of Ui Cenneslaig and Queen Natalya of Lodja. Queen Stasya was seen spending significant amounts of time with both visiting monarchs and aides say she was discussing an upcoming "CNN Pride" event that she is organising. King David was asked his opinion of his wife's fashion choice and said, "When it comes to fashion I know less than a quarter of what my wife does. I don't always see things the same way but tonight she looked beautiful."

Around 250 troops from the CNN partner nations are set to remain in Ostlake for a further fortnight as the guests of the East Moreland military. During their stay they will take part in training alongside their Morelander counter parts as well as take part in recreational events.

David shuffled forward in his chair to peer over the model. It looked rather nice, for a modern city, Chamick or as it had once been called Technology City was a city that David disliked but saw as a neccessity for East Moreland continuing to lead the world in technological and scientific endeavours. That city was similar to the one that "the Vale" would grow to be but in terms of design it had nothing on the elegant older buildings of places like Northfort and Ostlake. It was a key feature of most Morelander cities that some of the older features remained and that was why David loved them. The fact though that this new city did seem to be rather green made the King hopeful that it would actually turn out rather nice. "I have to say the city looks like you've tried to cater for people having plenty of open space. I like that. The parks in Northfort are beautiful especially in spring and I love taking my daughter there. I can imagine the people moving here thinking likewise. As for the embassy idea can I ask why, someone like me for example, can not visit beyond those hills. Traditions interest me and I'm sure there is an interesting story behind it." His thoughts then turned to the question he had been asked.

"Chamwick for us started off in a very different manner to your Vale. You are trying to build it to effectively unite two separate parts of a nation. What we tried to achieve in Chamwick was to set up a place for technological excellence, particularly in helping the next generation. We had reasonably high underemployment among young graduates in STEM subjects and fearing they'd leave abroad we hoped to expand businesses like EMAC, OsmanTech, SFR etc and so by looking to create this centre of excellence we eventually achieved that aim. The problem was all the education institutes, research facilities, workshops and small scale start ups we wanted to create needed housing, and then those residents need lesuire space, and schools, and hospitals which meant before you know it we've not got a campus we've got a city. That is how Chamwick came about, a city to meet the need of a job gap. You face a different problem, yours is more cultural but I think there are similar challenges. While we built science labs you look like your building cultural hubs. Would that be a fair assessment?"

Prince Bartholomew of Semelberg had never expected to reach such diplomatic highs as being invited to a Council of anything yet today he was accompanying the Queen of East Moreland to just such an event. Stasya was used to such things however usually as things turned to business she could excuse herself and disappear off for a less formal event somewhere. That though changed when her family has acquired Semelberg's Charter and in the process tied the small Odinist principality in Aranye to the fortunes of East Moreland. One day the brother of the future Queen of East Moreland would be the ruler of the Principality and so David had insisted Stasya take a more hands on approach. She actually liked the place and hoped that today she could simply let Bartholomew do the talking while she just rubber stamped things. To help her David had leant her Sir Jacob Longe a Royal Envoy of East Moreland and Shield-Father of King David. The trio had flown on Ironside Two, the back up to the Kings plane and had been accompanied by shiny new members of the Semelberg Rangers Regiment who had just completed their training. The ride through the snowy countryside reminded Jacob of his time in the East Moreland Alps and the sight of the man riding the Reindeer of his time in Nya Aland where such a site was not uncommon out in the wilds.

As the car came to a halt Sir Jacob exited the car first and offered a hand to Stasya dressed in a long red coat. She thanked the aid for the coat and waited as Prince Bartholomew helped her on with it. The coat was rather nice, she wondered what the hosts would have done had it been the old Queen of East Moreland, the eco-nutter Matilda, but thankfully she was now well out of the picture. Stasya cursed the snow slightly meaning she had been all but forced into boots rather than something with a heel but she did her best to make a good first impression. "King Aldwin and Queen Hildegard I'm Queen Stasya of East Moreland but today here in my capacity as High Princess of Semelberg. Before I fully slip into that role however I'd like to also extend my husband King David's greetings and pass on this." She handed over a thick creamy envelope. "It is our hope that you will accept an invite to join us for the closing ball of the upcoming Ostlake Military Games. My husband would be keen to meet you." She handed the envelope across and once safely in Aldwin's hands smiled, "I now intend to become fully Semelbergian for the proceedings so let me introduce my nations head of day to day government Prince Bartholomew."

"A pleasure" the young Prince extended a hand. "I hope you'll accept this small axe as a gift from my people." The highly polished wooden handle was short meaning this was more a warriors axe than a tool. Its head was polished to a mirror shine with an owls outline engraved on the blade. "If I'm being honest this is my first time speaking to Heads of State beyond the Morelanders and I'm nervous but thats a good thing I think as it means what we do here today really matters and I want it to go well. Thank you for the opportunity." With that the trio moved to one side to allow the next car to empty its passengers.

May 23rd marks a double celebration in East Moreland. The day is the birthday of both the Kingdom and its current King, David III. This year however there was added cause for celebration as the National Mausoleum was also opened.

The day began at the site of the battlefield of Greenflowers as members, both past and present, of the nations elite Red Legion concluded the tradition of the Vigil where they stand guard over the battlefield the evening before. This year just before sunrise King David, Queen Stasya, Princess Rhiannon and Duke Peter Kade, the current ambassador to the Iwi, arrived at the site and distributed warm drinks to those who had undertaken the "Vigil". In addition one unnamed Red Legionnaire was presented with his Conspicuous Gallantry Medal for actions undertaken in Lodja. Like many awards given to Red Legionnaires the citation for the honour is classified for the next fifty years. Soon after this crowds began to arrive to take part in the commemoration of the battle that effectively created East Moreland. The royals were joined by Princess Freya, Princess Rhiannon, Prince Llewellyn and Archduchess Sophie. The family helped place several of the funeral urns of those exhumed bodies from massed graves into the newly constructed National Mausoleum. During the ceremony which was lead by the High Priestess Skye Maddix the King said, "Today we are finally capable of putting to rest in the correct manner the first Morelanders. The men and women we have placed in their final resting place made a decision that there was something in their life more important than there own personal safety. It is thanks to them that everything any of us have ever achieved is possible and we must today rededicate ourselves to making sure that we never let them down." Several members of the public left offerings to the Gods at the walls of the mausoleum. A trio of Royal East Moreland Air Force helicopters flew the royals back to Northfort where the King and his family attended a service at the Temple of Jekar. As has become tradition the Royal Standard of Red Legion was re-blessed and for the first time Brigadier Jim Corey, the Legions new commanding officer, left a new Red Legion sword at the alter.

As the royals left the Temple they made their way to a specially constructed grand-stand at the edge of the Temple District where a large march past by members of the Armed Forces took place. The fly past included around 200 aircraft including some vintage aircraft and some aircraft significant in East Moreland's aviation history. The final aircraft was the Dragon-Ghost, one of EMAC's latest projects. Sir Alan Maybury, CEO of EMAC, said "The fly past was a lot of hard work organising between ourselves and the REMAF, I'm proud we managed to get so many vintage aircraft airborne and its been fun to see the crowd reaction to some of them. I hope we can now start working with collectors, entusiasts and museums to get some of these more airborne on a regular basis."

The crowds began to filter away to the bars and streets of Northfort while around 100,000 people lined up to enter Northforts People Park to enjoy the annual free music event. During this time Queen Stasya went to the Sisterhood of Helus' temple in Northfort with Prince Llewellyn. Upon her return the royals had a private party to celebrate the birthday of King David. Archduchess Sophie and her cousin Duke Peter Kade attended the music festival in the evening to watch Frank Turner perform. The King released a statement in the evening saying. "I'd like to thank the people of East Moreland for their well wishes. I'm hopeful that my 39th year can be one I'm proud of. I have a lot of things I want to achieve and there are many oppurtunities out there to make sure the Kingdom continues to be a force for positivity in the world. Last year we were able to win several pieces of recognition from other nations. We must build on these relationships and I'm excited to visit even more nations."

The private party in the palace was attended by Queen Natalya of Lodja and Grand Duke Hugo Lascelles of Bakkermaya. It is expected that King David will meet with these two in the coming days. Queen Natalya also attended the music festival for an hour in the park.

David was rather enjoying the flight, beautiful countryside and a discussion about another nations rituals. It made him hopeful for what was to come over the next day or so. He made a mental note to avoid moving close to the Veiled One. He felt a little sad that she had in a way had to give up her own identity in order to rule a nation but that gave him a sense of respect for her, it was clear that the young girl was willing to undertake a life of service to her people rather than live a youths existence and that spoke of her being a decent person, at least he hoped so. "Let me first explain Lord Bartolome about our swords" David instinctively placed a hand on the basket hilt of his straight cavalry sword. "To a Morelander these represent the highest values, that of loyalty, bravery , honesty and most importantly for you trustworthiness. I have given an undertaking to come here for talks with a friend, or at least what I hope will become one. As such you should know the swords will not be used for any purpose other than as a symbol of our status in our faith, Lady Aurora nor anyone else need worry. We however shall respect your customs and so the Sergeant of the Guard need not worry.

Before answering the Master of Scribes David gave the matter much thought. "I've been lucky enough to travel much of Mundus and meet some great people. I'm also lucky enough to have been granted some interesting titles. In addition to being King of East Moreland I'm also the Duke of Seabrooke, Grand Cordon of the Most Glorious Order of the Double Dragon, Baron Grey & Earl of Simcoe in Seaforth, I'm an honorary member of the Ngāti Rongomaiwahine Iwi, Baronet of Iskor Inlet in Lodja through my wife and holder of the Croix de l’Ordre du Mérite Diplomatique. However the title I'm most proud of is actually the rank of Captain in the Alpine Cadre, each of the others are in a sense an accident of birth, that put me into those titles of gave me a chance to interact with people who took the action of giving me the title. Captain of the Alpine Cadre I earned all by myself......twice." He smiled remembering his recent re-running of the Cadre's final training exercise. "I trust that is everything you need?"

The journey was a short one, a short hop over the Illumic and it was time to land. Along with him he had brought his cousin and Foreign Minister Orlaith Kade. The two often meet at Northfort Palace but it was rare for them both to go overseas together. The low key arrival had actually surprised David somewhat as he was used to the pageantry that came with state visits however he knew the Eyrie was very different to any other nation that he had visited and so perhaps they shunned such demonstrations. As Lord Scribe Bartolomé greeted him the King extended a hand, it may not be the Gusano way but it was something his own nation expected. "Lord Scribe its great to be here. May I introduce my cousin, Duchess Orlaith. She'll also be acting as my foreign minister." Orlaith gave a nod of acknowledgement and then the pair of them followed him towards the helicopter. "Perhaps you could tell me what to expect from a meeting with the Veiled One, the do's and don'ts would be useful?"

To: Lady Aurora

I would like to extend my thanks for sending an invitation, especially one so significant in your reign. It would be my honour to visit Gusano along with my Foreign Minister, Duchess Orlaith Kade, to witness this important occasion in your nations history. I look forward to meeting yourself and seeing your nation which, from what I have read, seems a very beautiful land.

May The Gods Watch Over You and Your Nation Know Peace

King David III of East Moreland

Golzar felt a little bit more relaxed after the Emir had been rather kind to him. The Prince dutifully made notes as first the Emir and then the representative from Brightlights spoke. His father who was sat back rather relaxing under the knowledge that he had little to do here today other than ensure his son didn't put his foot in it. When Kader finished talking the Prince looked first to his father expecting him to be speaking but his father purposely seemed to be carefully examining something outside the tent while enjoying a cup of tea. The Prince took a deep breath, tapped a pen against his note pad and then opened his mouth. Nothing much came out and he gave a brief cough trying to clear the nerves from his throat. "The thing you have shown us is like something from a sci-fi film. I like the way it looks but I am also a little concerned." Heydar suddenly shifted in his seat. "This is a project that looks like it would include technology that I am unfamilar with. I don't wish to offend anyone but as the youngest person in the room I am the only person likely to be living in this type of construction. What steps do we need to take to ensure that this actually becomes a valuable project and not just a giant hole in the ground that only fulfils half its potential." He glanced round at his father who seemed rather impressed at his son's point.

"Speak for yourself son but I intend to be an old grey man living in this glass tube." Heydar smiled.

"Well that makes me even more quizzical as if my father is to be based there when he is wrinkled I need to appreciate the standard of life that he will get." Golzar teased his father. "I also would like to know when you talk about freedom of movement would this be different to matters discussed in the Gulf of Auraxis Agreement?"