With reports from East Moreland of human smuggling a concern has been found within Hassfurt. Over the past few days East Moreland has uncovered several consignments of people being sneaked across the border. There are concerns these people are being gathered and the sold by Borlanders to fund terror activities across East Moreland and even further afield. The King asked the Police to look into claims of where these people originate and it seems several are from the Guine strata of Hassfurt. The Guine are the lowest Strata and are according to the Duality faith those who had done such evil in a past life they are born the lowest strata and marked clearly for all to be aware. There are currently 103 missing people's cases involving Guine since 2015, in addition 28 cases involving the Thrus Strata, those with red hair, are also missing. Police records indicate that of these missing people the majority are children while 70% are female. Having been presented these information King Jonas has ordered an urgent police investigation saying, "Hassfurt citizens may have somehow been used in this horrid crime. They have somehow become cargo and they are not known where they are but we now assume it is outside of the Diarchy. The newly made arrangement with East Moreland shall see us share knowledge on the cases in hopes we can first find them then bring them back home."

One theory is that poor families have been given cash for their child seen from lower Strata. Jozef Thesieban is from the Thrus Strata and runs an charity to support them legally and he believes this is happening. "We see rural farming Hassfurt families that have poor fortune for example one year when floods come. They have a small child in the family who it is clear will be put into a low strata meaning they will cost the family more money in futures. They therefore take the child to some wealthier group keen to posses a child for many reasons. The child is sold and the family report the child is missing." In the past Police have looked at Thesieban's claim and found them unsupported yet he claims that this is because "Police waste no time to explore the disappearence of a low Strata individual. The Police exist to serve the highers."

Chief of Police denies these claims saying. "While society may have Strata they are all citizens of our nation and it is our duty to protect them. While society see's different responsibilities and rights based on our past lives all life must be protected. We shall use information we can now access through the new deals with East Moreland to reopen every case and find people if that is possible."

Karin had mixed thought on Stasya. If she had been from Hassfurt she wouldn't have stood a chance to be Queen for several reasons. The first was that despite being beautiful it was clear she was not that blessed for the Gods as her dark hair betrayed. The second was she seemed rather more prone to enjoy softer things in life. That was not to say Karin did not enjoy the lifestyle of a Queen but she was not just Queen she was also Champion of the Goddess Sandraudiga and that meant she was a warrior in her soul. In some respect she would have liked to have seen the swordsman lesson at the retreat but she understood that diplomacy would maybe mean having to be more feminine all the while. In one way Karin had hoped that the King's sister Freya had attended as her blonde hair and blue eyes meant she was a beloved of the Goddess although clearly destined now to suffer in her next life having strayed from the path of Sandraudiga. She was though a warrior and Karin heard a good one. The treaty though means there would be other meetings and more chance. "A lovely view" Karin said to Stasya as they enjoyed their drink. "In order to become a King or Queen of Hassfurt you must show two things. First be blessed by the Gods this is simply tested by sight, the hair, the eyes, are you pleasing to the monarch's eye. Then you must be be able to overcome threats to the throne, if the Gods have moved their blessing from a monarch to someone stronger that must be tested. So yes we fight for the throne. I fought  Queen Anna in 2015 because she appeared weak. She was as I broke her arm showing the Gods favor me. It is my duty to ensure those blessed to be created in the body of the royals are cared for and that I am able to defend the Gods when needed. I train several times a week in boxing, kickboxing, I have learn a little of other martial arts. Every Hassfurtian tries to stay strong mentally, physically and spiritually. It is this idea that made us think East Moreland would be good to begin our diplomacy. You're adopted home have a strong sense of military duty, their concept of honour through swords and their Code of Camely is impressive. I suspect in 2025 I will be expected to fight once more and if Sandraudiga believes I am still fit to rule she will bless me with winning." The pair sat enjoying the rest of their afternoon.

---

Jonas did not think he would be having a lesson now but was rather pleased. It was a nice way to spend some time. He had many experiences of martial arts as a result of running a business which managed martial arts schools across Hassfurt, perhaps today he could add some new classes to his empire. He took off his jacket and tie in the courtyard and rolled his sleeve up. The sword may be wood but was heavy compared to what he imagined and he found the practice good exercise and that in itself was good. He did not notice the Princess arrive and smiled at her analysing of his technique. "I shall take Your Highness expert advice" he turned his body and carried on and despite having some whacks from his tutor found the day enjoyable. He liked the knowledge that Princesses of Moreland learned this kind of skill, he hoped when he had children they would take to things like fighting in a keen way too. As the Princess brought refreshment "Thank you Princess" he said accepting the juice. "Maybe in four years time you can teach me the way to make a sword then. Although I hope you will come and visit us in Hassfurt long before then." He had heard much of the bond between David and Rhiannon and she seem a confident child. One day she would be Queen and Hassfurt would deal with her and he hope to make a good impression. "We have our own way of fighting skills in Hassfurt, perhaps when you visit we can show you." He bid her farewell as he and David refreshed for the meeting with the press.

---

As they stepped out into the courtyard with the press Karin and Jonas made sure to be smiling. Karin knew the people at home would be trying to discover whether their new pair of monarchs were becoming fond of each other and a failure for this to happen would be seen as a bad omen for the Diarchy. For that reason she would prefer to have walked out with Jonas but traditional way of doing business would mean it should be this way. She sat next to David and waited for the King to make his speech . As arranged between the two of them before hand Karin and Jonas stood and moved to stand in front of the table with holding hands. It was also agreed that Jonas would speak first. "I would like to quickly address the people of East Moreland, we would like to thank them for their hospitality. Yesterday we visited your battle site of Greenflowers. We felt it important to show our respect to the warriors who allowed us to have neighbours such as you. Neighbours that we should have dealed with many years, if not centuries ago. We are now honored to put on paper something to make us true friends." He stepped aside to allow Karin to speak.

"Today I and Jonas sign the first treaty with another nation in the history of Hassfurt. We are excited to see the friendship have a chance to grow and hope this pleasant meeting will repeat with leaders across Mundus. I hope that Karinya will become even more Karinya as our friendship grows and grows." The pair crossed to stand back behind the desk and each took a pen, Karin signing one copy at the same time Jonas signed the other, they then swap before Karin handed the pen she had been passed by David back to him. "Thank you for this opportunity." Karin said as she kissed David on both cheeks as the media snapped away.   

The Kingdom of East Moreland and the Diarchy of Hassfurt, having meet in Rockhampton on the ?? July 2020 have entered into a Treaty of Co-Operation between their two nations. The conditions of this Treaty shall be in existence until ?? July 2025 upon which representatives of the two nations shall meet again to consider the future of this Treaty.

The following articles shall be in place within 60 days of this treaty being signed.

1. Both nations shall maintain active embassies for the purpose of supporting their citizens while in the other nation as well as being a first point of contact for diplomatic purposes.

2. Embassies shall seek to make an active contribution to the community in which they are based.

3. Citizens may travel to the other nation without a visa so long as the following conditions are meet.

a) The trip is booked at least 21 days in advance.
b) The traveller is in possession of a valid return ticket.
c) The traveller does not intend to stay longer than 30 days.
d) The traveller has sufficient funds to support their stay.
e) The traveller is not considered a threat to national security.

4. Students may apply for a place at institutions in the other nation and will be given consideration on the same terms as a domestic student. In order to take up a place however a student must fulfil the following criteria.

a) Be able to prove they have adequate funding to cover the cost of their course and stay.
b) Not be considered a threat to national security.

5. The nations shall reduce tariffs to be in line with the lowest rate of charges levied by the nation against any other.

6. Nations in multi-national treaties[1] shall not be included in the consideration given in Article 5.

7. Any goods crossing the border must be accompanied by a certificate of origin of manufacture. Only goods manufactured totally in East Moreland or Hassfurt may take advantage of Article 5.

8. No limits on goods traded may be imposed except in ensuring that goods comply with local health and safety laws.

9. The two nations agree to grant access to criminal records databases to the other for visa purposes.

10. The two nations agree to extradite suspected criminals to the other upon request so long as the following conditions are meet.

a) Details of the suspected crime is presented.
b) The nation requesting extradition can provide assurances of a fair trial.
c) The nation requesting extradition can provide assurances of torture not being used.


Signed:- King David III of East Moreland.
Signed:- Queen Karin of Hassfurt
Signed:- King Jonas of Hassfurt

 1.    e.g CNN, CSU, AKO etc

Multi-national Agreements

Fair Seas Concorde
Uppsala Convention
Outer Space Standards
Treaty for the Protection of Hygelac and Hrothgar
Cultural Exchange Treaty Organisation

Bi-Lateral Agreements

"Well sign me for some swordsmanship lessons" King Jonas seemed excited by the concept. "While I think in return we may need to think about what we can offer it is certain we shall come up with something, we as a nation have several beer festivals, perhaps a festival in our embassy in Northforts could be arranged?" he suggested first looking at Queen Karin who nodded and then at the King. "I think also helping with charity is a good deal, after all we are asked to show love to all of the two gods creations. Perhaps you could have people arrange to put us in touch with charities you feel are in need of support or dear to Moreland hearts. I understand you have several for veterans charities, these are people we would wish to support if we can. I know also you and New Urburzis did some work for children cancers and that too is a great cause. Once we have children I can not imagine the thought of how challenging it was for your daughter and yourself."

"In terms of extradition" The Queen changed topic unsure if the talk of the daughter's illness would be upsetting for their host. "We are not signed to the MCUR nor shall we be. Would it therefore be enough to say we shall extradite criminals once details of the charge have been provided along with probably suspicion as well as an undertaking that a member of the extraditing nations embassy is given access to them throughout any trial to ensure no torture is used and the trial is fair?"

We believe we must make more clear the statement issued by Queen Karin.

In the past Hassfurt has issued open invite to the world in order to begin diplomatic efforts. We have had little response but much criticism in other nations medias. This leads us to the conclusion that work must begin to slowly build a network for improving relations. In order to this Her Majesty Queen Karin asked the Oracles of both Gods to help advise in the decision of how best to take this forward. We believe that nations that have some foundation to build upon are the ones to begin with. Our faith teaches about the need for strong martial education and for self reliance. Our oracles thinks the Cult of Helus and Odinist faith fit strongly. We do not though rule of relations with others. We have a new King learning the ropes of government. With any decision it is needed to identify places to begin. We therefore have been advised these nations are perhaps the best to begin with. We however do not ever close the door to relations with any nation. Should Tamora for example wish to begin diplomatic discussions with our nation we would happily open our doors to delegations.

We hope this clarifies Queen Karin's statements in that these nations are the ones we approach first, not the only ones we approach.

Queen Karin was the accustomed one at looking at documents such as this compared to King Jonas. She took a look first at the Morelanders document and it should seem that it was adequate for what they had discussed at this point so far.  "While the treaty looks solid for us I would like to ask for some clarifying.  In the 2nd point you say they shall have embassies make an active contribution to their community in which they are based. What does this mean you expect people to do in this regard?"  While Karin knew that there would be a need for Hassfurt to expose to other cultures and ideas sooner rather than later the exact manner would still be controlled to ensure the purity of the way of life in Hassfurt.

Jonas now examined the same document. To him he was taking the stance that the thing was a business contract, nations replacing companies. "If we are satisfied for now can we make provision to connect our law enforcement data so that we may check the background of people travelling for the visa issues. Additionally it may be supportive of cross border crime. I think in the past you have had terrorists known as the Borelanders making attacks in the border areas, as such the idea of them making crossing from neighbors is likely and we would not tolerate it if attacks on Hassfurt came from East Moreland and you did not attempt to end them, so we must do our bit and that will need shared data won't it?" He asked.

Queen Karin knew soon or later that the nature of their belief structure would be a problem for some who did not appreciate the truth of the Duality religion. There would be some time needed for nations to adjust. "If I may explain to you" the Queen began for she was the longer serving of the two as Champion of one of the Gods, in her case the female God Sandraudiga. It was then her task to make sure people understand the wisdom of the Goddess. "We would not prevent anyone from any Strata visiting our nation. They would perhaps find then that while in the nation they are quizzed in certain respects. In the ways Strata find difference in their day to day it is for things like education. To reward for good conduct in previous existance the higher Strata the more access to free education. Should the lowest Strata be accepted on University they would study like others but would need to pay themself. If a Moreland student of the Strata this Miss Maybury is from arrived they would need to pay education fees but so would any Morelander. If East Moreland fund that student fees that would be up to East Moreland. Other areas were what you may consider discrimination take place are gun law, abortion, work as Prostitute, things a visitor to our nation would not access anyway for they are not Hassfurt citizen. In a day to day status the Strata face little what you may consider racism. Miss Maybury would walk the streets with little concern, she would be able to go to restaurant or bar, she would be able to do everything others may. I am not saying she would get the exact same treatment as the highest Strata in a bar but such practice is dying off. I hope this is reassuring to your concerns." The Queen finished explaining.

Jonas was willing to permit the Queen to lead the situation. She was more briefed on situations from the past as she had been longer in the position. He turned to face the Queen. "Those days we were content to see to ourselves. The USR were never perceived as a threat to the coastal batteries of old. That may be naïve of those in power then. We though have not liked the scenes of various foreign nations taking liberty in the Illumic. That is some action we should not let take again. As for joining these organisations we would have more confidence in these bodies if they were not so much following East Moreland but rather genuine partners. We view Bakkermaya as a nation of worth in respect but also servant of East Moreland, Heyra are not driven to be much other than a bank and we do not think Vaguzia we have seen little of since King Leonard died and Zimalia is an oddity. Across the waters we have Seaforth who are unwilling to do much and then further North we have this new outpost for Achkaerin, more foreign influence. At this point Hassfurt is reluctant to join AKO or MICA. We do however think the manner of East Moreland and the ideals of Hassfurt are compatible so would wish to make a bilaternal agreement between us for support."

Queen Karin had reviewed much on the nation of East Moreland from the time she became Queen and could never understanding why the two nations were not closer. They had many differences but then there was clearly ways of connections. They were both monarchies, they both believed in the aspect of military duty, they both valued martial prowess and there to was the belief that the championed the cause of Gods. The Queen was still getting to know the new King, the duo had yet to move in to the Palace they shared together instead both prefering to spend their time in their private residence. They had come together a day ago to fly the short hop into East Moreland where they spent the day together enjoying the occasion. First they had travelled rather unceremoniously to the Battlefield site once the crowds had left. The two monarchs spent the day strolling the historic site. It was when the crowd thinned that the pair approached the stone for the Morelander first King and left among the offerings a small bronze statue of a soldier in armor carrying a spear. From the battle field they retired to the capital city of East Moreland and enjoyed for a small time the music concert in the Park before a meal in a nice restaurant they had recommend by the hosts. The dual monarchs retired early eager to be awake ready for their flight to Rockhampton.

The flight to Rockhampton was enjoyable to see the countryside and then a fairytale type castle. In truth the castle would not look wrong in Hassfurt except for its locale on top of the steep wooded hill. Upon the ground they had expected to be in the castle vacinity straight away but did not expect a drive snaking up the hillside to the gates. At the top Queen Karin was pleased to see the East Moreland monarchs waiting for them and the favourable greeting they were given. It was King Jonas who accepted the hand of David first. "Good morning Your Majesty." Jonas said as her firmly shook the Kings hand before gently doing likewise to Stasya as Queen. Jonas then stepped aside and let his Queen greet the two.

"Good Morning Your Majesties" Karin greeted, "I hope King David both you and east Moreland had an enjoyable birthday. We would like to say how welcome the people of Northfort made us. We enjoyed the concert a lot." She reached back into the car, "We have a birthday gift for you. My people tells me you are a historian I think." She stood upright a long parcel retrieved surrounded in a cloth wrap. She handed it to Jonas who held it horizontal while she unwrap the gift to show the King. "We know as a nation you have a thing for the ways of old. People suggested you get a gift of a sword from us but then I hear you have museums full of blades. So instead we bring you this." It was a heavy wooden stave with a brighlty coloured cord as the string to form the bow. Its tips bore in silver the heads of Honeybadgers.

"I do not know if you shoot Your Majesty" Jonas enquired, "But I have a little experience and can give you some pointers if you wish." Jonas then worried he had said something imply that David was unskilled. "Or maybe you can give me some." he added hoping his first diplomatic meet was not already in trouble.

"Three.....just three measly nations" Marcel mused to himself. The former King was hope that there would have been more to visit the ceremony. It was the ceremony to establish for the next 10 years the person who perhaps could most shape the policy of the nation with others in the community. The Prince believed it may have to do with their strict way of imposing their faith on everyday scenarios but perhaps it was just as the nation was happy to previously keep out of the squabbles and misdemeanors of the whole of Mundus. As the Morelanders arrived he was most pleased, the Western next door neighbours had long been seperate to them and this was a good chance to begin to build a bridge between them. He knew of Archduchess Sophie naturally from the media but it was more the giant Rollo if the young man had been from Hassfurt he would perhaps one day be King as he truly looked strong enough. "Archduchess, Mr.MacAllister." Marcel extended a hand to each and then lifts a glass of wine off a silver tray and hands it them. "Please tell your uncle" He spoke with Sophie, "Congratulations on his new wife and Queen. The confusion over our monarchs here meant we had the inability to send someone." He hoped they understood.

Next he left them to enjoy their wine when the Lodjains walked in. As a nation he knew less about these apart from the knowledge they were friends with East Moreland. He was happy to meet the Princess and impressed with the high ranking military officer. Hassfurt respected military prowess and clearly to be such a high up rank meant this man must carry some great authority in his homeland. "Princess we are delighted to meet with you." he handed the drinks once more. "may I ask if you two are together or just diplomats assigned to the same visit?" he was a fan of gossip and so was interested to know the relation.

The final arrival was that of Ubriekkland. "Sir, Madam" he greeted the blonde haired woman first before turning to the man. "It's an honour to greet, the Herald of your Empire." he handed likewise them drinks and then went to make sure everyone was introduced. "I'm afraid we must wait a little while before the event begins. Both men must be given a chance to call upon the God Heremod and ask for his blessings in the combat." he recalled the day he had undergone this and the nervous knots in his stomach. "They will probably now both be within the city." As if on practiced note a cheer came from a few streets away.

Duke Jonas and his entourage had entered the gatehouse of the old city. It meant they were several streets away making their way slowly through the crowd on feet. Some youngsters wanted to get high fives from the Duke whom the majority of the people wished to see victorious. They did not approve of King Philip and the way he had treated the belovely Queen Karin. Jonas was dressed in loose fitting woolen trousers with a t-shirt and tracksuit top. He was accompanied by several friends who helped him push the way towards the square. He stood and spoke with a few people before reaching the archway which allowed some of the crowd into the square where the fighting would commence. As Duke Jonas walked into the square his companions except for a closest friend were halted from their progress they shook the Duke's hand and wished him well heading back to the crowds.

From the next direction some feint cheers but also boo's came as King Philip accompanied by some military friends approached. He was wearing a pair of long shorts and just a half zipped tracksuit. He had his long hair tied into a knot at the base of his neck. He was waved through with just a fellow officer from the navy accompanying him. The pair stood in opposite corners of the square and prepared. As the city clocktower counted down towards the annointed hour. As the final minute ticked the doors of the Temple of the Two Gods opened and the clergy and royals exited and people began to take their seats. Marcel escorted the guest to their seats that have the best view of the incident. The Queen and other royals came to sit with them. "I am excited that you have come." Queen Karin addressed them all. "I hope once this matter is out the way we can discuss our nations more. For now I pray the Goddess Sandraudiga will give us their choice for King." She would have added that she was hoping for a new King but figured that may not be diplomatic.

The two combatants had now stripped away their attire until they both stood in just a pair of white shorts the size of swimming trunks. "The two men gathered here before you" The Oracle of Sandraudiga addressed everyone. "Are in dispute for the Crown of Heremod. Only one is the true Champion of the God and he will indicate his determination by granting them victory. King Philip do you wish to retain your crown." the Oracle asked and the King declared his intent to remain. "Duke Jonas Hoffman, do you claim to be Heremod's true champion?" The Duke gave his affirmation that he did and the Oracle waved both men towards him within the square. The Oracle gave instructions of what would happen that was audible to the guests and royals. "The fight is until we have a winner. No time outs, no stopping, no weapons, no biting and no hits to the privates. May the God give the champion victory." and with that he instructed them to take a step back each before blowing a whistle.

The men circled each other caution, Philip was the bigger man but not by so much. Each flicked out the odd punch towards the others face with bare knuckles but failed to find the range. Philip broke with this pattern by launching a kick at the thigh of Jonas and the thunderous smack echoed around the square. Jonas spun away but kept his feet and swung a left fist at the face of Philip, the blow glancing off the top of his skull. Both men traded lefts, rights and kicks but no advantage came. Philip moved in grabbing the neck of Jonas and pulling him inward but Jonas grabbed the long hair of the King and pulled it backwards and as such forced the Kings control away from him. Jonas was able to squirm to a point where he could hit Philip hard under the ribs and heard the sound of air rushing out. Philip though smashed an elbow into the side of Jonas face and the pair seperated. Philip held his ribs and breathed hard trying to fill his lungs with air as Jonas tried to shake the ringing from his ears. They once more circled and traded blows, Philip smashing one blow into Jonas lip bursting it and smearing blood across the face. Jonas staggered backwards and fell to one knee. Philip raised an arm as though victorious and regretted it as Jonas lunged forward grabbing his legs and tripping him to the stone cobble floor. Jonas mounted the man and began to rain blows at him over and over but Philip raised the hands and absorbed them over and over before taking hold of one incoming blow. The pair then rolled over and over each gaining supremecy on the ground until Philip had Jonas by the throat in his giant hand. Jonas could feel himself begin to struggle to breath but frantically pushed his knees up trying to seperate himself from Philip at first it did not work and as Jonas tried to use a free arm to claw at the face of the King he found a thumb to jab in the man's eye. Philip gave a below of pain and his grip let loose. With a short thrust Jonas smashed his forehead into the bridge of his opponents nose breaking it hard. Jonas did not stop there he pushed the King to one side smashing an elbow into Philip's throat making him gasp for air. His nose broke and gasping for air Jonas took hold of Philips skull and began to smash it backwards onto the cobbles several times. The stone saw a smear of red as Jonas smashed again two more times. Philip gave a fient swipe with his hand but a fifth slam rendered him still. The Oracle stepped forward and called a halt looking down at Philip he motioned that the King was clearly unconscious and the crowd cheered thankful the King they did not like was defeated. A crowd gathered around Jonas leaving Philip to be tended to by just the naval officer who followed with him who waved for those left at the arch to follow in as they began to try and care for their injured friend.

Queen Karin stood and left her seat in the crowd descending to the cobbled stone square where people from the army pushed a passage. The Oracle had gathered the crown from an assistant and handed it to Karin. A battered and sweat covered Jonas knelt before her and Karin placed it carefully on his head before helping him to his feet and kissing both his cheeks. "Be joyous. Heremod has selected his Champion. Long live King Jonas." the crowd repeated the final words over and over in celebratory fashion.

Marcel meanwhile turned to the others, "I trust you are not too shocked" Marcel smiled, he remembered how he was defeated and was pleased Philip had now suffered. "We shall retire for a time, a chance to discuss the show before meeting the new King and the Queen Karin." He escorted them back into the Guildhall while Philip was carried away on a stretcher.

This afternoon Duke Jonas Hoffman of Ruddenberg earned the right to challenge for Kingship set against King Philip. The businessman who owns a chain of Martial Arts training schools returned first to the Queen's Palace having traversed from the Temple of the Two Gods in Codila. He was first of three candidate to complete the 100km journey and claim the right to have hand to hand combat against King Philip, the winner being the monarch for the next five years. He arrived almost 20 minutes ahead of Lt.Col Jonathan Böttcher when finally business man Sven Junge arrived two hours after that. While he finished in the final position Sven Junge did earn plaudits for his efforts having dislocated his ankle crossing a river some 5km away from the Palace. Queen Karin has presented Duke Jonas with an official letter allowing him to challenge King Philip within two weeks. The challenge will take place publically in the square in front of the Temple of the Two Gods and will be determined by either making the opponent unconcious, unable to continue, surrender or death. There has though been no death in these challenge in over 100 years. The relationship between current King and Queen have been strained as King Philip father a child with a 4th Strata Thrus woman. The Queen has spoken of the contenders after Sven Junge limped home saying. "I wish to give thanks to those who have taken the time to offer themselves to complete this duty to our nation and the Dual Gods. The three who undertook my challenge did so with great respect to the challenge and each other. All three would make excellent King and I am proud in many ways of Sven for completing the task despite his injury. I wish Jonathon and Sven well in their future and I am sure we can look at duties supporting the nation they clearly love if they wish. To Duke Jonas I wish him luck when he contemplates his challenge."

King Philip spoke of the impending challenge saying to us "The Gods know who is best to guide Hassfurt. I believe I am the best King available and I will fight hard to retain my crown. The Gods know I am the King Hassfurt needs."

---

While usually it would be seen that the King's Consul would be helping him prepare for his upcoming challenger it is clear the current Consul is not supporting King Philip. Duke Guido Pfaff has instead used his authority to make himself lead of the Strata Council's review into satellite security following the reports from Aland of various satellite mishaps. The Duke was an officer in several military units and is believed to be able to have a good level of leadership over such a important issue. Speaking with the press Duke Guido statemented "It is important that our nation prepare to face troubles that this situation is causing. While our region of the Illumic is yet to experiecnce the issue I am confident we can not rule it out. As such we will talk about it with experts from all fields and hope to put together a plan to be safe."

The Duke was asked about why he would give himself these duties with the challenge for the throne at hand and he states, " I am an old man. What can I do to help someone prepare to fight another man. Philip requires others not me. Tradition is something you can have only when comfortable. The threat of Alander terrorist to the world means we must put this tradition on hold for the sake of security." Many believe the fact he did not wish the King well is a sign that he is supportive of the challenge and not the King.

A combination of 500 people have applied to challenge for the position of King of Hassfurt. This is a new record according to experts which lead them to conclude the nation is highly angry at King Philip for fathering a child with a woman of 4 Strata lower than himself. This has lead to the disintegration of the relation between King Philip and Queen Karin as well as annoying many leading members of the nations ruling hierachy. King Philip has also come very near to being removed from the crown however not enough of those with a say elected to use that option instead waiting for people to be permitted to challenge the King, possibly hoping that he shall lose. The applications that have been received have been explored by members of the nations civil service and those that do not fit the criteria are disqualified. So far 142 of those who have applied have been rejected for that reason as Mr. Durkish of the Civil Service explained to us. " The applications come from people unfamiliar with the rules. Some see it on the internet and think it would be funny to apply. We've had applications from overseas and while this does not rule people out they must be a follower of the Duality faith which is a rare thing for a non Hassfurtian. Next we look at age, it is sweet to see a small 6 year old apply because he likes the Queen but naturally they are not able to fulfil the duties. We then have to check family trees and what Strata their ancestors have been. This excludes many and is though time consuming in order to ensure we are accurate as their is no ability to appeal a rejected application. Finally we check their medical record to see that they are healthy and physically capable of being the King." It is expected that out of the 500 around 50% will be rejected through the process.

Those good fortuned enough to have their application pass the civil service will be given to the Queen herself. Here she will route away any that she does not feel will be a good selection and then those remaining will be called to the Palace of the Queen. There each candidate must demonstrate their physical ability by holding a 5lb Axe perfectly horizontal for a time of 60 seconds. Those who manage these feat are then set a challenge by the Queen. The winner of this challenge is then permitted to challenge the King to single combat. The winner of this contest is the one to either surrender their opponent, render them physically incapable or kill them. Whoever wins is crowned King for the next 5 years and will be expected to become the partner of the Queen. It is expected the process to find those to be invited to the Palace for the axe test will be completed by the weekend. 

Ziska Feld was the Consul of the Queen, in her land it gave her the right to speak in the Strata Council. Abroad she carried the voice of the Queen but not the King and this then meant that whatever deal was agreed she could only give her own approval and that in Hassfurt would mean nothing. It would be a time before the Diarchy had the matter of King and Queen settled and until that moment no real decision could be made on anything. It was a issue for problem back home when such a time came about as the King or Queen could be challenged as it meant nothing could be done. Ziska therefore was determined that she would not tie things into Hassfurt agreeing. She also hoped that this meeting went smoothly compared to New Derusima's dealing with their neighbours from the South of their continent. As she landed she looked around for their host and upon seeing him approached. "President Feish, I am here to represent Her Royal Majesty Queen Karin Biermann, Champion of Sandraudiga, Duchess of Finsing." She said proudly. "My name is Consul Ziska Feld and I look forward to our meeting." 

Despite applications not being reviewed until the period of January 1st 2020 to end of January a total of 120 applications to be the next King of Hassfurt have reached the Palace. Every five years one of the two monarchs can be challenged, years ending in 0 see challenges for the King, while those in 5 for Queen. Normally around 20-30 applications are received though the recent birth of a child for King Philip by a woman not of high rank reduced his standing in the community. One of the first applicants was transport company owner Sven Junge who criticized the King even before the new child believing he was too focused on his military life than running the nation. Mr.Junge is a self made millionare and is respected by a large number of the nobility. To qualify as King a person must be 18 years of age, unmarried, be able to prove the family is Guine (lowest strata free) for three generations and pass a medical background check. Those meeting this criteria will be subjected first to a physical test of holding an axe in front of them for 60 seconds. Those who pass these tests will have their application passed to Queen Karin who may reject any for any criteria she wishes but should she select more than one they shall face a challenge to determine the last man standing. The King shall then face the challenger in a fight for the crown. King Philip won this way in 2000. The Queen has in the past spoke favourably of Mr.Junge saying. "He has the potential to be a good King, clearly a good businessman, a devoted patriot. I have heard a man of deep faith and of a good Ermwahl family."

The man responsible for the review of applications is the holder of the title "Chamberlain of Letters" a position to is responsible for the overview of official royal correspondence. That is currently held by Otis Hicklemann who has already been sorting the applications. "We know more shall come in the following days and the process will be ongoing. Of the 120 some are quiet funny, we have had three women apply, two clearly Guine and a rather sweet eight year old boy angry about King Philip mistreating Queen Karin in his words. Sadly eight year old Henri has been told his application is rejected but we look forward to another application in 2030 when he is old enough." Mr.Hicklemann explained too "We now check family backgrounds and remove any not fulfilling criteria. Once done we begin arranging testing with the axe. Normally if there are many applicants we go to them in different regions. If only two or three we invite them to the Queen's Palace. The hardest bit is putting in the challenge that the Queen sets." King Philip was one of three men to reach a challenge stage when he became King. His challenge was to catch as many fish as possible in 48 hours. So far Queen Karin has not stated what the challenge will be if one is needed.

King Philip has been quiet throughout the scandal but has moved his Thrus Strata lover into the King's Palace with his new child.

"So you feel forced into allowing them into the Bay region?" Karin asked. "May I suggest then that we instead look at perhaps organising some kind of trade agreement and for the being time some anti-piracy measures. We can not make statements saying to exclude foreign naval vessels when this has become a situation where you are unable to deliver on such a promise. It would make any measures or statements of us look weak. Imagine us stating "We do not wish foreign naval powers in our Bay, except Rokkenjima" It show that we are beholden to them for our home waters when this is not the case. I would prefer having to fight to ensure our sovereignty in the area should the need arise than having to make weak statements you would not be able to back up." Karin concluded.