David was hopeful that even though he had expected this meeting to yield primarily economic boosts to East Moreland he now could see a glimpse of perhaps some kind of diplomatic success as well. "I had anticipated that you would perhaps also need help with your unit learning about some of the ways we use that equipment. While I'd be happy to consider some form of officer exchange or something along those lines. I have for you a proposal of sorts." The King was always keen to help out East Moreland businesses and while there were some very obvious ones that would likely benefit from what the King was going to discuss here today there was one that he would like to see get a little boost. "Sir Richard here retired from military service last year after several decades in our military, a great deal of them in our elite Red Legion. Today he runs a company providing training to people aboard ships travelling through some of Mundus most dangerous water ways, I suspect we could persuade him to do some of the work training this new unit if we can find a mutually agreeable arrangement. As for now I think it best Sir Harry begins a sales pitch."

There was a clearing of throats and a sip of water from Sir Harry Samuelson. "Thank you. If I may Your Highness" He slid a large screen tablet over to Maximus. "East Moreland prides itself at being very innovative when it comes to military technology, as a result however some of the vehicles and platforms its attached to tend to maybe be a little older than many nations but we have proved time and again that its what you do with the kit that matters. We have a choice of three tanks, our first two are heavy platforms, the MBT-1 is the older of the two and has had significant amounts of upgrades and additions. There are a fair few older ones out there in mothballs that we can find if need be. The MBT-2 is our 2nd tank and despite them being of a similar age the MBT2 has had slightly less upgrades. As a result we've a few less technologically upgraded 2's knocking around or of course you can have Henley build you them from scratch. I'd say for training purposes you're likely to get more bang for your buck from the MBT2, its use of an autoloader means less training for your military and as your limiting the size of these Rogues by number of men it'll mean you can field more. We also utilise a lighter tank called the Chameleon. " HE allowed the Regent and his delegation to look at the various specs and images.

"Now in terms of other armour we field just one types of IFV and a lighter recon vehicle. Our troops move around in our shiny new Bison mobility vehicle and supported by our SPH-8, the advantage there would be the SPH-8 ad the MBT1 have the same chassis so that may help your maintainence bill. With those you should be able to field a 500 man unit relatively easily." Sir Harry took the tablet back and pressed a few other icons before returning it the Maximus.

"In terms of an air arm we'd suggest you're more likely to want close air support so we've the old Dragonbane which is being phased out eventually so we've already a few mothballed. There is a newer version but I think for cost reasons you'd likely go retro. Much of its close air support duty has been passed onto the Firestorm which is simply a converted Puffin so perhaps a combination of the two would help save money. Helicopter wise we use the Super Lifter and as an attack helicopter the Raccoon. Hopefully that has wetted the appetite." Sir Harry sat back down rather proud of the military he helped oversee.

"We'd also make an introduction to the companies involved to help you sort out supply of spare parts, maintainence and the like but you should also consider contacting SmartWar as they do some great work on our upgrades and while some of their work for us is of course classified they can do some work to make the military as close to what we have as possible." David explained.

"We can arrange for you to go see any of this stuff in action." Brigadier Correy of Red Legion added knowing he'd got some boys keen to play with some of the toys.

David was a little disappointed to hear what Maximus had to say, "I'm going to have to be honest. I'm more than happy to work with you to come up with a plan to fulfil your needs in regards to this unit that you wish to put together. All arms sales from East Moreland based companies must have government approval. Last thing I want to see is an East Moreland Legionnaire coming up against the very weapons we sold someone. As a result Sir Harry here is under very strict instructions that approval will not be given to anyone who has failed to sign the Uppsala Convention. My approach to the document is that it won't ever have to be used against a Morelander as I would never give an order to contradict the principles of the convention and therefore any breach by a Legionnaire would be their doing and not the nations and as the document holds the perpetrator personally responsible then I would have zero concern, meanwhile my own nations military I would believe would handle his court case rendering intervention by any Uppsala mechanism irrelevant. Now on the proviso that this deal will not be completed until such a time as I see an Imperial signature on the document then we can continue. What exactly are you hoping to build in terms of this training unit?" 

The letter was one that surprised King David, he was aware several nations around the world did such a thing but he had not expected his own Kingdom to be used as the model for one such "enemy" force. On one hand he was rather proud of the way the Regent had spoke of his nations own military, especially as he himself had served with pride within its ranks. Naturally at first he was a little concerned about the arrangement but after meeting with his Minister of Defence Sir Harry Samuelson a strategy that the King was happy with had been put together. Following the King's response arrangements had been made for the Tanith Empires Regent to make his way to Ostlake. The city, which shared the name of the imposing glimmery blue lake upon whose northern shore it sat. The lake was huge, and the rive Ost which flew into it was navigable by the navies large vessels for part of the year and had a skilled helmsmen. Each of the cardinal points boasted a military establishment of such and a network of underground rail tunnels connected them. It would be to Ostlake East that the guests would be guided, the base there had an airfield where Ironside One, the Kings personal transport, was maintained. As a result of this base being selected to host the meeting it would be members of the Royal East Moreland Air Force (REMAF) who would be providing an honour guard for the regent and whoever else he had deemed to bring with him. The Morelander delegation was of course headed by the King and Queen with Sir Harry Samuelson keen to also be involved, the heads of each of the three branches of services were there too along with Brigadier Jim Corey who commanded Red Legion and rather oddly for such an occasion Sir Richard Kelly who had proceeded Corey as commander of East Moreland's elite but who now ran a company providing training for security forces such as those who accompanied shipping. As the Tanith aircraft came into land the band struck up the guests national anthem, this was the part of the day that was very routine. The aircraft would be shown to a terminal style looking building that normally was used to send troops off on their way across Mundus. Once it had stopped steps were pushed into place and with the strains of the Tanith anthem in the air the guests would descend to take their first steps on Morelander soil. The King made his way forward meeting the Regent half way down the inward facing lines of Airmen providing an honour guard by presenting arms. "Prince Maximus I'd like to welcome you and your people to East Moreland." He extended his right hand towards the regent. "This is my wife Queen Stasya."

"Its wonderful to meet you." She said with a smile. "I hope you've had a pleasant trip so far." She added before David introduced everyone else.

"Please come this way." David gestured for the regent to climb onboard one of the waiting open topped vehicles that awaited them. David turned and helped Stasya before clambering onboard himself. The vehicle was more often used to ferry pilots to the hangers at the far end of the runway when needed but today would act as a royal transport taking the two delegations first off the airfield and then through to the bases more business like area where the REMAF's prestigious Officer Training College was located. The little electric buggies stopped outside and the delegation got down and made their way inside where the scene revealed a large rectangular foyer with steps at the far left and far right leading up to the 2nd floor and creating a balcony effect. The floor was polished dark wood except for a large patterned blue carpet that dominated 3/4 of the floor space of the foyer leaving a wood border between the carpet and the walls. "I would ask you to not walk on the carpet" David stopped and almost whispered to the Prince and his people. "There is a tradition that only Air Force officers may walk on it." The King walked round the edges of the carpet before climbing the far left stairs and entering into one of the rooms on the second floor which was set up with a series of chairs either side of a rectangular desk, Stasya had left them at this point being more keen to take part in some PR event with some new graduates of the College. "Now I do have to say before we begin. East Moreland has a strict rule about military equipment sales, that is that we don't sell to nations that have not signed the Uppsala Convention. You must forgive me but I'm of the understanding you have not signed that convention. Our policy is well known so perhaps we can clear up that situation first?"

Freya waited for a few seconds. "I'll be asking Marissa to send her a speedy recovery." She paused once more. It was seemingly another example of how Rokkenjima wasn't truly itself anymore, while she understand Evanthe was essentially last Anselmo standing at this point in Freya's mind Evanthe was someone she associated more now with Seaforth than with Rokkenjima. Once you'd fought for another nation that would, as far as Freya believed anyway, be your homeland. "Lets be clear about something" Freya began "It should be sending some kind of alarm bell ringing the fact that within a short space of time after the Empress tried to end her life a delegation of Morelanders rock up at your Palace unannounced. Especially when that delegation is made up of me and a carefully selected entourage including the former C.O. of Red Legion" She glanced at Richard Kelly, formerly the Brigadier in charge of the nations elite. "Since when do I do embassy visits?" she shrugged her shoulders. "We knew something was happening with her, not exactly what, but we know. So perhaps lets drop all the pretence. I'm here because the Empress wants me here and I'm here to offer some time away from whatever it is she's dealing with. There is no accident in who I selected to accompany me, the boys here are as discreet as they come and we've Ironside One sat on a runway. No need for anyone other than our team. A few days of fresh Morelander air and an escape from the situation that exists here could do her wonders. My concern having gone first to your other home and discovered a justicar on gate duty is whose controlling the fall out." She paused for a few seconds and then having gauged the moment told Evanthe something she knew her brother would have volunteered himself.

"This is the first time someone outside high command has been told this. You'll remember the birth of Caspian and Rhiannon. In the days that followed Matilda was touch and go as to whether she would survive. My brother was heartbroken, add to that the fact that he'd just discovered his new born son was likely to die before his fifth birthday and that there was a chance that it was because of something in my brothers DNA. He had committed himself to raising the twins as much like a normal father as possible. It didn't go well. The worry about Matilda, the health of Caspian and the stress of being for that time a single father pushed him into a kind of isolation. What is also not public knowledge is he was for a time on medication for his mental health following the regency crisis. This was like the perfect storm and we actually had to stop him from trying to shoot himself. Tom there had to break down a door in Northfort Palace and he'll tell you himself that those things don't go down easily. In the days that followed he went off to the countryside and recovered with the help of a vast number of his friends.  I took the regency for two months. We've been here before. The best advice I can give you, don't hide her away from people who want to help. Not all help comes from experts and if you want to improve things then change needs to happen. We've a spot if she wants it." Freya concluded.

OOC- Follows this https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=737.msg28523;topicseen#msg28523 - Castle on the Hill Vignette

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As the e-mail pinged through David naturally was concerned. He picked up his phone and placed a call to his sister, who luckily was in Northfort. It was a short walk from the Princesses woodland clearing lodge to the Palace itself and Freya had not bothered smartening herself up from chopping some firewood with Alex. David had verbally outlined the message and now turned his screen to let his sister read it from off the monitor. "I've asking the ambassador to make contact but if something has happened then I think we may need you there?" David instructed his sister who began making her own phone calls.

An hour later Ironside One was taking off en route to Rokkenjima on the pretext of a visit to the embassy while heading to Abertone. Onboard was Freya, her Head of household Rebecca Jarrett and Sir Richard Kelly and Red Legionnaires Tom Saxby and Tristian Rowe. "Well this is nice" Saxby said as he took a seat in the lounge of the aircraft. He'd travelled once or twice on the aircraft but only ever in the security hub which while nice lacked the huge armchairs and plush carpets of the King's lounge. "Do you think your brother would mind if I take a dump in his en-suite......just like to say I have." Saxby asked Freya who was trying her best to work out what was going on at their destination.

"Tom, for once in your life don't be a savage." Rowe shook his head. "Just take a whizz, leave the solids for the crew bog." The pair snickered like little kids, they were still unsure why they'd been sent but had been instructed to dress smartly. So now they listened as Freya instructed them in what would happen when they landed.

Touching down the four of them had an embassy car waiting and the drive was dismissed leaving Saxby to drive. "Thank Helus we didn't bring Olly or we'd be costing the tax payer yet another gearbox" he quipped as he set off towards Pyrena. As they reached the gate Rebecca exited the car and made her way to the guard house. She flashed her ID as a member of both the East Moreland military and the diplomatic team.

"Good morning. We've Princess Freya here with us. She's visiting the embassy however when the Empress meet her at the world cup she said if the Princess was ever in Rokkenjima to stop by for some tea.....I suspect she'll be expecting the Princess." Rebecca responded.
 

David took a deep breath and was about to speak but then a nod of his head to his sister encouraged her to begin. "I'm flattered you think of me that way. You though need to remember, what you see is the carefully stage managed Malcolm Tucker version of a Princess. He'll likely throw around things like "Oh she was the first boot on the ground in the Safraen crisis" or something like that" she even put on a bad impression of Tuckers voice. "I was but it wasn't like I was there on my own, I had a squad of Red Legionnaires less than a heartbeat behind me. You see there is nothing special about doing what must be done. That said you have my phone number and you know where I live."

David let Freya say her piece and then stepped in. "Throughout my reign I've been here too often." He said rather matter of fact. "It seems almost a bi-annual thing where I meet a Rokkenjiman Empress who tells me they want us to work together, to be friends.....or even allies. I say the same thing that we're Morelanders and we believe in deeds not words. Then for a few weeks things are great, fast forward and here we sit." He shrugged his arms and sank back into his chair. "Half of me wants to speak to you like the teenager you are, but the problem is you're not a normal teenager. Viktoriya Tar, Klara, that weird kid from Jonathania, The Veiled One of Gusano all had power at the same age of similar to you. You're talking about badasses......Olivia Robertsson, a 19 year old medical student who hiked a group of survivors out of the UNP and to safety before finding herself stuck in a chemical leak she still has the scars from. I look at those people and then I think I have to ignore your age. We're not going to be allies. That's the short answer. You don't get to be placed on the same pedestal as the Cenneg, the Iwi and Lodja simply by asking. Hell you don't even play rugby well." David half smiled trying to find someway of softening his words. "I know the circumstances of your childhood perhaps mean you're lacking the traditional Rokkenjiman pre-reign education that most Empresses would have but so what. Lodja don't even have a royal family. Erin McGregor at 20 years of age catapulted a religion to a homeland, but thats a sore point. They are doing what must be done. You're not." He took another breath and reached down beside the sofa and picked up his trusty leather bound notebook. From his inside pocket he brought out his favourite pen, one gifted to him by the Queen of Sky Coast so many years ago, it had signed more treaties on Mundus than any other pen.

"You ever hear of the Spartan paradox? Its something I came across in my rehab." Suspecting Asuna hadn't he didn't wait for an answer and just continued. "It's a simple concept. If we say we're going to do something we make excuses, you know things like the diet starts tomorrow, well we all know tomorrow never comes. The Spartan paradox states that until you've put a date in your diary and a pin on your calendar its not real. So the idea is you set yourself a big challenge and then pick a sensible date. You then write it down. Suddenly its real and you can't put it off. You want to know how we fix this......we use the Spartan paradox." David began writing and after a few minutes ripped a page out of his notebook and handed it her.

The Empress of Rokkenjima agrees to the following.

1. A statement shall be released clarifying her statements on East Moreland.

2. The Empress shall broaden her horizons. In order to do this she shall

a) visit a nation on each continent. (This may not be Daito or Achkaerin)
b) take part in a cultural event from another nation.
c) climb a mountain
d) visit Hygelac
e) complete a trek of at least 100miles.

3. Do something for a NGO.

4. Have created a formal treaty between Rokkenjima and East Moreland that is acceptable to both parties. This to be agreed and negotiated in Rokkenjima with no one who is not a Morelander or Rokkenjiman present. This may not include mutual defence nor shall it include base sharing.

"Its not going to guarantee us being best buddies, but if your going to be Empress of Rokkenjima for a long time, Gods willing, then I need you to be someone willing to say what you mean and mean what you say. I also want you to be someone whose experienced Mundus, for too long Rokkenjima has acted like the whole of Mundus is East Ardia. All you need to do to get the ball rolling is stick some dates down. Its unorthadox but I've tried formal treaties before with Rokkenjimans and they don't hold so we'll try something very different."

 

David allowed Stasya and Henrietta to go ahead of him as they approached where the food was as expected his wife selected very little of the fried food ever mindful of her figure, Henrietta shared non of those qualms. David meanwhile was only too happy to indulge. "Do you think I could get a piece of the Cod and the Halibut, beer batter on both please." He asked hopeful that the chef may allow him a liberty. He chatted with the cadet while the chefs plated up his food and thanked him for carrying the plate for him as he took a seat next to his wife and the Prime Minister.

"Its not exactly elegant" Stasya whispered as she picked up a fork to try a tiny morsel of the peas. She seemingly approved and then tried a bit of the batter. "Not elegant but nice" She concluded with a nod.

"Well no stealing any of my chips when you've finished yours" David smiled as he simply picked up a chip with his fingers, dunked it in his peas and ate mimicking how he'd seen the ordinary Morelanders eat at the Festival of Sail.

As Elisabeth joined them David listened carefully, as in Medusalin the idea of "Chippy Tea" of a Friday was a working class treat that went back to the Industrial Revolution. He remembered the odd "Chippy Tea" with his uncle after being taken to watch the rugby as a child and it was nice to see such a thing was clearly more of a southern Alba Karinyan tradition than he had thought of. He thought for a moment that perhaps how that happened was something he should ask Dr.Merriman when he got home. The two requests from Elisabeth were a little out of the blue. David thought for a moment, "I'm not going to obviously speak on behalf of everyone but I suspect many of us are a little surprised at what you're putting on the table. I for one though will be offering an alternative. I'm fortunate enough to have you as a neighbour and we have various outlets that can support trade, the AKO, MICA etc. I therefore believe that perhaps pursuing one of those in regards to trade between us may be a stronger way forward. I'd be happy to sit with you, and even perhaps the Crown-Princess from Valen and discuss these options separately."

The second matter was, at least as far as David was concerned, more interesting. "East Moreland has perhaps one of the longest histories in terms of accepting refugees. We have a facility called Hunter's Vale that has helped house a great many refugees and asylum seekers over the past decade or so. The idea of passing on that burden is one that I don't really like, we have a duty to help those made refugees by war or the like. Now what you are offering though is better than Hunters Vale. There its only a temporary establishment and while we have schools, health care, ok housing and the like its not a long term solution. What I would say then is this. If we find ourselves in a situation where Hunter's Vale has housed somebody for over a year we would look to utilise your programme, if they agreed. Also if we have you sign up to MICA or the AKO we may find other ways to help with your desire for a population boost."

As envoy to Albion and also ambassador to Lodja Lord Peter Kade, the younger cousin of King David of East Moreland, had been dispatched to attend the after worship soiree. He knew his regal cousin would expect a full report both diplomatically and culturally. In many ways this was Peter's first real big task since becoming a diplomat for the King. He had followed his other cousin, Duchess Orlaith, into diplomatic service first spending some time in Rokkenjima and then, thankfully, in Lodja. There his duties post civil war had been simply being a conduit between his nation and his host. He had found a most joyous way of doing that by forming a romantic relationship with Lady Jasmina, the Chief Lady in Waiting of the Queen, and in his mind the most beautiful human being he had ever seen. He had tried to have her attend this event with him but he sensed Queen Natalya was still a little annoyed that he hadn't followed customary protocol when it came to courting one of her Ladies. Instead his plus one for the evening was Millie Hodgkinson, a young raising star in the diplomatic corps and was earmarked as being the new ambassador to the Heptarchy if formally approved by the Emperor.

The Morelanders watched the burning of the clothing and then made an approach towards the Crown-Prince. "Your Royal Highess" Peter bowed and one step behind him Millie did likewise. "My name is Peter Kade, I am the Royal Envoy to Albion from East Moreland, may I introduce to you Miss Millie Hodgkinson who will, all being well, be the new Morelander ambassador to your nation."

"Its an honour to meet you Your Royal Highness" she said giving yet another bow. "I'm hoping that it may be possible to present my credentials formally to your father if there is a chance, also on behalf of our own monarch, King David, we have this for you on the occasion of you assuming the....I think the words used in your media's reports is....rights and responsibilities of your station." She handed over a book, small enough to fit in a suit pocket and with a deep rich red leather cover. On the front in gold were the words "A Journal of a Consul" The first half of the book was a rather short book from a former Consul of Ancient Ardia. The back pages though were blank. "My King hopes you can fill the remainder with your own deeds and successes." She explained the meaning behind the gift."

"My cousin is somewhat of a history nerd" Peter said as way of further explanation, "It has become a little tradition of his to give a book of some sort as a gift on coronations and the like. I do though wish you all the best in the new role."

Today the King made his scheduled visit to the Representative Council where, as long as diplomatic duties permit, each Wednesday he answers questions from Councillors for a minimum of 60 minutes. Today however the King was in the chamber for a total of 97 minutes as topics ranging from the recent bomb attacks in Nya Aland to the Empress of Rokkenjima's verbal attack on East Moreland. The King began as always by laying out his itinerary for the next week which included attending Princess Rhiannon's parents evening tomorrow. Questions began when the representative of Silverhills Central, Giles Mitchell, asked "Does the King intend to send military forces to Nya Aland following the recent attacks that have seen members of the East Moreland military targetted at Red Base."

The King responded saying "We send our best wishes to the people of Nya Aland who at this time have lost loved ones. We gave a commitment many years ago that the Alanders and Morelanders would be friends and I see no reason that should change. The Alanders face uncertain times but they can be certain that we shall support them if requested. At the moment Sir Harry Samuelson is in contact with their military and should the situation change so would our force dynamics."

Next was Chief Councillor Lucas Blakeslee who asked. "The recent report in Rokkenjima of their Empress calling some kind of Northfort Experiment into doubt what kind of response can we expect from our own diplomatic service."

The King answered by saying "There is no experiment going on in Northfort, at least not diplomatically. Whatever the Empress was refering to clearly relates to manner in which we do business and as far as I am concerned business in terms of our international relations and decision making is good. There are no plans from my side to change the way in which we interact with other nations."

Simon Mannix from Portworth asked if there was " a return to the days of anti-Moreland hate within the Rokkenjiman nation."

To this question King David replied, "We've seen no polls like we did in the past. The Empress has spent time in  East Moreland so while hopefully she may express issues with our administration then I would hope the respect for our nation still exists. The Empress has a long connection to our nation dating back to several incidents and I know she has spent time with my sister. It is these things that have therefore surprised me that we have been criticised."

Melissa Lusk, founder of International Refugee Support Agency (IRSA) and one of the Representatives for Freestone asked. "It would seem to those reading the Empresses address that there seems to be a move towards a new form of the CTO or similar. Do you believe such an organisation can be created and that it is sustainable?"

The King told the Assembly. "We took a decision to walk away from the CTO because it didn't work and our shoulders, along with Achkaerin, could not bear the load anymore. As such it worked out best for us to leave and walk away. I so far have seen nothing to make me walk back towards such a body. Nothing the Empress said would lead me to think otherwise. She has just spoken of her wishes and dreams of such a body but for dreams to become reality it takes hard work and dedication and I do not believe Rokkenjima are in a position to pull that off at the moment."

Next Sir Richard Ballen of Northfort Forest District asked "Do we put the Empresses words down to anything in particular or do we think her naivety on the world stage is showing?"

King David replied sternly saying "The Empress, like any royal, is in a position of privilege. While we may try to say young children deserve a normal childhood that is not going to happen for royal children. While I want Rhiannon to enjoy growing up, experience the fun of being a child, she is only too aware that one day she will be stood here before you. She is eleven years old and already being groomed for the crown. Rokkenjima should have, and probably did, prepare the Empress for the crown being on her head. The nature of royalty is that sadly the moment I go off to see Helus Rhiannon is in charge, while I pray that is in many many long years we also all know it could be tomorrow. While an eleven year old Queen of East Moreland would be unworkable I am confident that because of the support network around Rhiannon that on her 18th birthday she could run a nation. I am not going to disrespect Rokkenjima saying they have failed preparing the Empress for the throne but the situation there has been a complex mess for several years. I would also point out we have had leaders of similar ages who have been great leaders. Let us remember Queen Viktoriya of Lodja was 18 when she came to the throne and by 19 had helped redraft large sections of the MCUR, had helped forge the CNN and forged diplomatic links with a great number of nations and she was not born into a royal family. The Imperial Address is a key moment in Rokkenjima's annual calendar. The speech is written, drafted, practiced and revisited. While the Empress claims she spoke from the heart. It was a decision she made. She is in the business of making decisions and now must deal with what happens next."

Finally Sam Rushden from Keepton asked " What is the long term plan for East Moreland and Rokkenjima relations."

The King concluded saying, "I will borrow an often stated phrase from Rokkenjiman diplomacy. Our doors are open. We will not go cap in hand to Rokkenjima expecting them to solve this issue. We will continue our so called experiment by making deals throughout 2024 that benefit every Morelander, support those in need around the world and help bring peace and stability to people across Mundus. There are multiple ways of moving forward. Some have begun, others may happen in due course but I have more pressing and more important concerns than dealing once more with a spat from Rokkenjima. Much has changed from those examples in the past and we do not chase friends."

The King concluded his question and answer session by taking a question from Jack Robinson from Stoneton who asked whether the King supported "the ADSN call for independence for Troyes".

The King said. "I have always, and will always, support the idea that people should have the final say in how they are governed. Following the Regency Crisis here in East Moreland I put before the public the first constitution of this Kingdom. Within it is a mechanism for, if the people ever wish......and I hope they don't, making East Moreland a Republic. If the people of Troyes truly wish to be independent we must establish a way of fairly and openly gauge that. If the people truly then support rejoining Marseille and the removal of Seaforth forces then I'll support that. I always find it strange people travel around Mundus claiming territory and the Seaforth involvement in Troyes is yet another puzzling moment."

Today Princess Freya visited the studios were various Star Wars related media is filmed. The Princess is said to be a keen fan of the franchise and was snapped on set with several of the cast from leading shows. The Princess was also questioned about the recent address from the Empress of Rokkenjima who stated "The Northfort Experiment has failed miserably, leading to losses of life not seen since before the Covenant/Commonwealth era. Do we persist on this path or do we, collectively, decide that our pride is not worth this continued loss of life?"

The Princess spoke on the statement saying "In 2017 East Moreland and Achkaerin made a brave decision to leave the Commonwealth Treaty Organisation. It has become clear by then that the two nations were shouldering the weight of the organisation. As I trudged my way across Marseille I had been promised support from Rokkenjima and while my boots and uniform became caked in the mud of Marseille not a single Rokkenjiman got so much as a spec of dust on their uniform. Proudly the CTO forces succeeded in returning freedom to that nation and as a result also Acquitane. But lets not forget as we hiked across Albion with heavy packs on our backs Rokkenjima picked fights with Nya Aland almost prompting a second war on that continent. Since 2017 we saw conflict in Lakhzovia, a nation where the Utmen were being persecuted and once again the Moreland military entered the fray and established a massive air bridge back to East Moreland taking tens of thousands of refugees out of harms way. Add into this mix our actions to remove those facing religious persecution in Mavrosia and the subsequent aid operations around the world I find it hard to understand that we are somehow responsible for losses of life. Meanwhile we have seen Rokkenjima repeatedly provoke conflicts and conflicts with its friends and neighbours, ranging from destruction of former overseas bases causing environmental damage, a brief unfortunate war with their neighbours in Daito and constant falling outs over matters such as where to base organisations. My brother has created a diplomatic network for East Moreland that is clearly the envy of Mundus. When his time comes, many long years from now, Rhiannon will inherit a legacy that she will find extremely difficult to live up to. In the time as King of East Moreland David has created a foundation that has allowed us to co-operate with nations beyond the imagination of many. The More and Mundus Network established a school exchange programme open to all nations of the world that has seen thousands of young people form life long friendships around the world making our future one where our leaders of tommorrow will have an understanding of culture far in advance of many of their predecessors. The Cultural Exchange Treaty Organisation has allowed sites around the world to be protected, advanced scholarship and returned valuable artefacts to rightful owners. The Uppsala Convention, what is now a cornerstone of international law has my brothers fingerprints heavily all over it. A network to protect and prevent trade in animal products in the guise of the Wild Mundus Organisation was pushed by him and his former wife. The Global Childbirth Initiative   has helped establish world class medical training for midwives across Mundus. The Joint Emergency Team was an idea formed by him and Peter Knutsson of the UNP and has worked in some of the most dangerous situations across Mundus. Even the Mundus Refugee Agency that was part of the CTO lives on in the guise of the East Moreland established International Refugee Support Agency (IRSA), whose work East Moreland has borne the brunt of. Anytime, anywhere that there has been a need to help those in danger, to help those in need there has been an East Moreland boot on the ground alongside East Moreland money. I believe firmly that without the so called Northfort Era there are people on Mundus who would never have been born. The Empress knows me well, she spent time on pilgrimage with me, she spent time with me at my home, she knows East Moreland is famed for two things, the first our remarkable punctuality, the second that when we say we'll do something we do it. The best example? There had been talk of removing nuclear weapons from existance and while everyone else talked East Moreland not only dismantled our own but then supported others to do the same."

The Princess was then asked why she believed the Empress would take a shot at East Moreland in her speech. "I have no idea" The Princess explained, "We have often seen in the past Rokkenjiman politicans and royals talking a good game but often one that places them as some kind of leader. While the Empress may talk of the need for an international forum I think the regional approaches have worked very well. One need only look at Grand Duke Hugo Lascelles solving several issues in Ardia using that approach. Rokkenjima seem to believe offers of vast sums of money are the way forward. While we in East Moreland have given overseas aid we have never had to dangle it as a carrot to be our friend or by jumping through hoops access it. If someone needs clean water an East Moreland plane carrying it will turn up and a Royal Engineer will dig a well if thats what is needed, or better still train someone from that nation to dig it. I am proud of what we have achieved and when the time comes that my brother stands before the Gods I firmly believe that they will welcome him to the afterlife with pride knowing that they created such a man. Is this something the last few rulers of Rokkenjima can say? I would urge the Empress to drop the combative and competative nature of her calls for diplomatic engagement and instead just turn up."

The Princess filmed several short clips with characters from the Star Wars Universe that will be used as part of charity campaigns in the new year. The Princess has also confirmed that when her commission comes up for renewal in February she will be moving onto the reserve list. The Princess said, "I've had a long enjoyable career in the forces. The long treks though across places like Seaforth, Marseille and Safraen have taken a toll on my knees and as such I think its time to bow out of full time active duty. My brother has always allowed me to come and go as a part of his government by placing the 2nd Light Scouts above my duties as an Ironside and I love him for that. Now though its time that I support him in what you could describe as the family business. That diplomatic success we've enjoyed could always use a second pair of hands and I'm keen to add a few stamps to my passport, only this time leaving the bergen and rifle behind." The Princess has confirmed that she will initially be focusing her attention on helping ensure the Mersch situation is resolved in "short order" and that she hopes to also spend some time working with the Semelberg Armed Forces.

King David has yet to formally respond to the comments from the Rokkenjiman Empress however his Press Secretary Malcolm Tucker stated, "His Majesty is aware of the comments and hopes the Empresses has not resorted to taking up the methods of the old Rokkenjima. King David would value the friendship of Rokkenjima and its people yet today that may well have taken a backwards step." King David is due for the final round of questions before the Representative Council of 2023 on Wednesday and it is likely questions on this topic could come up.

It has been a remarkable day in the Seaforth controlled city of Troyes. The city has been the scene of a number of protests over the last few months and today the newly formed ADSN released a statement on the situation.

CONCERNED about the current situation within the city of Troyes

MINDFUL that a clear message has been sent from the citizens of the city regarding their future

COMMITTED to the notion of people being free to shape their own future.

DETERMINED that the Seaforthian citizens of Troyes deserve dignity, respect and safety

The nations gathered on this date in Rokkenjima believe the following.

1. The City of Troyes should return to the nation of Marseilles.

2. The Kingdom of Seaforth should remove, by no later than 30th April 2024, its armed forces from the region.

3. The Kingdom of Seaforth should be permitted to remove any sensitive or classified materials from its military establishments.

4. There should be no action taken to impede any citizen of Troyes relocating to Seaforth taken by the Republic of Marseille.

5. Any Seaforthian citizen remaining in Troyes should be given the option of becoming a Marseille citizen.

6. Should any action be taken to deny Seaforthian citizens remaining the same rights and freedoms of a Marseille citizen the signed nations shall undertake action to protect those people.1a

OOC- The original date for Article 2 was end of November giving that it was originally 4 months from statement to deadline I've changed it to End of April 2024

Within a few hours a pre-planned protest took place where an estimated 200,000 people marched through the steets of Troyes, a number organisers say is a "gross underestimation." as they put the number closer to 500,000. The large group assembled outside the Fort of St.John and then marched through several of the key boulevards bringing the city to gridlock. Several groups broke off in a clearly agreed tactic to essentially take over key junctions in the city. As the group arrived outside the Troyes Military Base run by the Seaforthian military. The leader of "The New Real Marseille" is Alain Doucare who explained in a leaflet distributed by the crowd that "The city of Troyes wants to be Marseille and identifies with that nation as our true and legitimate government. Now we have nations that are native to this region supporting our cause. The protest today and the ongoing strikes that bring the city to a standstill show there is no way to maintain Seafothian activity here."

Later in the day both Empress Serena of Aosta and Empress "Sutāraito of Rokkenjima both were seen in the city helping distribute food and clothing packages to those on strike at places such as the cities train and bus stations. A spokesperson for the group New Real Marseille said "We had been contacted about the pair visiting the city to show support. This protest though needs to be carried by the people of Marseille. As a result we asked that the two Empresses attend in a lower key manner than some kind of official trip." They were joined at one point by Jean-Pierre Cantona, the first President of Marseille who said, "While I may be the first President of Marseille it will be someone else who will have the honour of being the President of the whole of Marseille as without Troyes we are not complete."

There has yet to be any word on the statement from Seaforth.

Born in 1993 Rebecca hails from the town of Keepton in the Alps. Her father was a local GP and her mother ran a florists. She has an older brother Simon and a younger sister Megan. The family would often spend summer holidays in different countries with her father encouraging the youngsters to get involved in adventurous activities.

At the age of nine Rebecca was considered to have significant potential as a cross country runner and was beginning to gain offers from prestigious private schools for scholarships.  By the age of 11 her parents had made the decision that they would send her to Northfort Girls Academy as a boarder. While Rebecca seemed to plateau in running she did become an excellent science student and in 2011 graduated with top grades in Chemistry, Biology and Maths. She was accepted into the Army College of Higher Education to study medicine.

While at the College she was attached during her training to a unit attached to the Alpine Cadre at her request as it had ties back to her hometown of Keepton. She represented Duke Legion at several of the Ostlake Games with her best performance coming in 2013 when she won a Silver in the Triathlon. In 2018 she graduated as a doctor and as all students at the Army College do entered military service on a minimum ten year contract. She was made, rather unsurprisingly, a member of the Army Medical Corps but was attached to the Alpine Cadre after passing their specific training tests. She has since seen service in Seaforth, Academica and Mavrosia.

In 2022 she passed the various tests required to be a member of the Joint Special Forces Aviation Wing and has her winged dagger as a result. She has however not been permanently placed with the JSFAW but has served as a member of their teams who accompany the Royal Family on overseas visits, mainly as after the first sortie on Ironside One the King discovered her connection to the Alpine Cadre.

As of November 2023 she had just gained promotion to the rank of Captain.

She has served as a medical officer in the Cadre since 2016 and

There were many day to day things that King David had staff for but as far as possible he had always ensured he packed his daughters bag for school and despite having told her most evenings since the school year began in September she had failed to empty it. David had picked up the backpack next to the door that lead to their rooms within the palace at Northfort and headed towards the kitchen, no doubt Rhiannon would have stuffed her half eaten bag of oatcakes into a pocket into which they would have disintegrated into crumbs over the course of the rest of the day. David unzipped the side pocket and the offending crumbs tumbled onto the kitchen floor, today they had been particularly squished into nothingness. He cleaned them out and was thankful they'd opted for a backpack that had an easy clean interior. He went through the other pockets and found the detritus of the day, a Capri-Sun packet, three pencil crayons and a battered and torn envelope. It wasn't uncommon for his daughter to be given letters for trips, reports or even for school events but normally the assigned Security Detail would make sure word got back to David that such a message had been handed out. The King looked at the envelope and immediately realised it wasn't any of those. On the front of the white envelope was his own handwriting, "Shelly Madden" written onto it. The name didn't mean anything to David, nor did he remember writing on the envelope but he opened it anyway. It was an invite, David had written them for all forty of the girls at the school who were members of the Swordsmanship Club. For the New Years celebrations they'd planned a small tournament in the Palace grounds and David had invited the club members and their families to come as his guests. He'd told Rhiannon to hand them out and it appeared she'd done so, all with one exception. The way it had been crammed at the bottom of her bag though had surprised him and so after he'd finished chopping the carrot sticks for tomorrows snacks and then packed the bag ready for the morning he'd made his way into his daughters bedroom with the letter in hand. His daughter was laying on her bed as her small pet Fennec Fox, Goldie, was curled up next to her. Rhiannon gently petted her as the fox contendly munched away on pieces of boiled egg it was offered periodically. Rhiannon was focusing on a book she'd brought from the school library.

"What you reading?" David asked as he sat down on the edge of the bed and gave Goldie a gentle head rub much to the foxes delight.

"I got a book about Neu Urburzis." The Princess said, "I know Augustin told me about some thing with his uncle but it didn't make sense to me. I then heard Stasya talking about the same thing on the web with someone. I got even more confused. So I got this." She rolled onto her back showing her father the glossy front cover of a popular book series called "Young Traveller" which was designed to teach youngsters about foreign culture. Rhiannon enjoyed reading and knew that when she asked questions about other countries more often than not her father would just give her a book. The King was happy his daughter had been trying to find out about the upcoming bride competition herself but sensed he'd have to explain it himself to her, but that was for another day.

"Well once you've finished the book we'll explain anything you still don't understand" He smiled at his daughter who remained on her back so she could see her father. Goldie left her spot and went and sat on Rhiannons stomach curling into a warm ball of fuzz that Rhiannon ran a gentle hand through. "I found this in your bag." David held up the letter and saw his daughters eyes look away slightly nervously. "Was..." David had to look at the name again to refresh his memory, "Shelly not at school today?" he asked. He noticed his daughter didn't answer straight away and seemed to shift uneasy on her bed. "Rhiannon, why did you not hand out the invite to this girl?" He sensed something was not quiet right.

"I didn't see her at practice" She lied. Shelly had been there and in the changing rooms after Rhiannon had almost taken delight handing out the invites to everyone else, even the girls she didn't really know that well, and almost skipped her way past Shelly empty handed. Rhiannon had been pleased that it looked like Shelly was upset because she'd been left out of something and as the other girls opened their envelopes and then talked excitedly about the invite to see a big competition in the Palace grounds Rhiannon saw Shelly look at her forlornly in the hope that Rhiannon was rummaging around in her bag to find the obviously missing invite. Instead the Princess produced a silver packet of Capri Sun, threw her kit into the bag and almost triumphantly thrust the orange straw into the packet before striding out. The invite now lay crumpled under her blazaar and skirt, left there until discovered by her father now. She'd actually considered ripping the envelope up in front of Shelly as revenge for her managing to steal one of Rhiannons strawberry laces as they'd been sat in the bag next to her on the bench she liked to sit and read on under the tree. Shelly had made a grab for the whole bag but Rhiannons attention had been off the Neu Urburzis book just long enough for her to spot and with speedy reflexes from several years of sword training she'd managed to grab the bag and save all but one lace which was protruding from the bag and taken as a kind of spoil of war by the victorious Shelly. Rhiannon had yelled after her drawing the attention of one of the security detail who, wearing a high-vis jacket to blend in with the break time duty teachers glanced over. Seeing the Princess was not in any actual physical harm they let the matter slide, their instructions were to let Rhiannon be as normal a student as possible.

"So if I go and see your security detail they'll tell me the same right?" David asked sensing Rhiannon was not being entirely honest.

"I...maybe" Rhiannon squirmmed. She sighed and put Goldie on the floor. The fox sensed its comfy time with Rhiannon was over and so trotted over to its crate where it slurrped at the water bowl before snuggling into its bedding disappearing beneath the folds of a warm blanket. Rhiannon sat facing her Dad crossed legged. "She's mean Dad." Rhiannon almost pleaded as though the explanation would make her father agree and bin the envelope.

"Thats not fair" David explained. He shook his head wondering exactly what he should say next. "Look, I'm not saying you have to like everyone. You don't even have to be friends with everyone, but it would be good to. Sometimes in life there are people that we just won't get along well with and thats OK. Just because you don't like someone though doesn't mean its OK to be disrespectful to people. This girl is part of your team and that means you need to stick together and help each other. You can train together, you can compete together but then just go seperate ways but it doesn't help the team if you leave someone behind. I need you to give her this tomorrow." David held the envelope out towards Rhiannon who looked glum.

"But she doesn't respect us" Rhiannon said, "Today at practice she took Millie's chalk bag without asking, she hid Alana's gloves so she was late getting out the changing room and had to run laps and every single break time she tries to steal my strawberry laces." Rhiannon sounded extremely angry at the thought of the beloved confectionary being stolen.

"Is this the same girl you got detention for kicking last month?"

"Yes" Rhiannon admitted but leaving out the fact that the swift kick to the shin had seen Shelly all but double over and Rhiannon was about to reign an absolute haymaker of a backhand across her face before she was stopped by a teacher yelling at her. "I'm just fed up of it Dad." Rhiannon began to cry. "She's a bully and always stealing people's things but she gets away with it because she's sneaky and never gets caught." Even though David should probably be reprimanding his daughter he in a way felt a little bit of pride that she was standing up for people and couldn't resist giving her a hug.

"You have to remember sweetheart that one day you're going to be a Queen dealing with real bullies. Shelly stealing strawberry laces is nothing compared to Stalin invading Safraen and even though I'd have loved to send my army into Rodinha and destroy him I knew it was the wrong thing to do because it would have caused so many more problems. We have to do the right thing, not the thing that we think will make us happy. For the sake of my soldiers I didn't send them to Rodinha, for the sake of your team you can't leave someone out." Rhiannon pulled away and looked up at her Dad.

"But you do those sancty things when people upset you. Like you did that time you told everyone they can't buy stuff from like Smellycuid because they'd hurt our religion." David couldn't help but smile at the way his daughter had used her nickname for Royal Seleucid after she'd learned a little about the genocide attempt there. "This is my sancty.....no strawberry lace thieves shall set foot on royal palace grounds" She said rather regally making her father chuckle.

"Sometimes bridges need to be built and that means someone has to make the first move. You are a Princess, you are a noble and nobles act nobly that means they do what is best for the most people. The team would be a happier place to be if everyone came to the party." He was about to unleash his secret weapon, his daughters own competitive streak. "Look, if Shelly feels she's not part of the team you're going to have someone in your melee team that feels like they aren't part of the team, a shield wall needs to act like one living being. You don't make that leaving her out." Once more he held the envelope towards his daughter and this time as she used one hand to wipe away her tears she took the envelope. "Thank you" he kissed her on the top of her blonde head.

"But she doesn't get to sit near me!" Rhiannon said adamantly. "She can come but she stays away from me and Millie." David nodded that he would concede to these terms. He looked at the large clock on her bedroom wall.

"Its getting close to bedtime. Twenty more minutes with your book, put Goldie to bed, brush your teeth and then come and say goodnight. OK?" Rhiannon got back to book reading position as her father headed towards the door leaving the envelope on the bed, Rhiannon was in half a mind to just slide it into the folds of her book and forget about it but she knew her father would check up on it and so resisted the urge. Just before her Dad left he stopped and turned back. "And tomorrow try not to leave half eaten oat cakes in your bag." His daughter cracked a smile.

"I'm hoping if I half eat them you'll give me some of that chocolate flapjack instead" Her father simply shook his head and made his way out the room. He gave her bag a final once over, slid a new pen into her pencil case which was as well stocked as any in the Kingdom, and then went to the fridge and broke off a small slice of the flapjack and put it into the plastic lunch box. His fatherly duty done for the evening David made his way to the lounge. Stasya was sat on the sofa her feet half up on the black leather flicking through a book of various designs, already picking out her outfit for the party from those various designers had offered her. A baby monitor sat on the table next to her the other end in the happily sleeping Llewellyns room. David sat down and picked up his wife's feet placing them on his lap eliciting a satisfying purr as he gave them a gentle rub.

"Rhiannon OK?" Stasya asked turning her gaze away from fashion.

"Yes" David said, "I think she may have her first enemy" chuckling.

"Girls schools can be like that sometime. Unless she's trying to send Red Legion in just let them get on with it." Stasya offered her advice. "Beside I can't see Rhiannon not being very popular. The girls just jealous." The Lodjain side of his wife clearly coming out.

"I think it'll be sorted tomorrow but just do me a favour, next time you go shopping don't bring her any of those laces." David asked, "Think of it as a peace strategy."   

The two young royals hit the dockside with a slight bump, the thick black rubber that surrounded the boat stopping it causing much of a problem. A pair of Rhiannon's security detail helped them back ashore. "Why would girls fight over a boy?...whats a Gay Emperor?" Rhiannon asked a little confused, "I mean you fight because people are mean, or they steal your strawberry laces" For a moment her eyes narrowed as she thought of Shelly Madden, the girl in the year above who always tried to grab her small paper back of strawberry laces while Rhiannon was sat reading at breaktime. She'd got in trouble for grabbing them back of her and when a tussle started Rhiannon had kicked her in the shin and was about to backhand her before her security detail stopped her. Since then Shelly had stayed clear of her but to Rhiannon she was now a nemesis on the scale of how her father saw the Borlanders.

"I'd love to come and visit again, but Lew is a little small and well....Oliver isn't really able to travel far without some doctors with him or people like that." What with his wheelchair, various emergency bits and pieces it was like he was followed constantly by a private hospital. Rhiannon had been on the Royal Airship their father had, she rather liked it. "I like airships, we've one with a big dining table in it. I like having burgers there while we float over the Alps. If you get lucky you even see things like eagles flying around in the hills. Do you see things like that on yours?" She asked. As Augustin prepared to go Rhiannon gave him a big hug. "Tell all your family I hope we can all get together soon and tell the people on your boat to look after the big rabbit." She smiled and hugged him again, "I hope you enjoy the festival and we don't wait ages to meet again."

Yesterday morning Queen Stasya was seen leaving the Temple of the Sisterhood of Helus. The Queen later confirmed that she had spent the last two days there undergoing various religious "rites". The Queen's Head of Household, Alexander Samuel, said "Her Majesty has spent the last 48 hours at the Temple, praying, fasting and offering gifts to Helus in the hopes that she will bless her with another child. The King and Queen have been trying for some time to conceive and so far been unlucky. The Queen determined that asking the Goddess Helus for help was important." The ritual itself was not explained however other followers of the Sisterhood of Helus who have undertaken the ritual explained that the ritual begins with a fast of 24 hours at the end of it offerings of fresh meat, vegetables and flowers are laid on the alter and prayers said. The participant then smears blood from the meat on their face and eat a small meal made of the same items left as an offering. Once eaten the participant then begins a vigil for the final 24 hours during which they pray and must stay awake. It is believed that by showing such devotion to Helus that she will bless the participant with a child. Queen Stasya was guided through the ritual by High Priestess of the Sisterhood of Helus Jinny Denman.

Jinny Denman explained that she was now confident that the Queen would be pregnant soon. "Her Majesty has, since her fortunate conversion to Helus, been an incredibly pious woman. She attends prayers, has lead rituals, supported our social programmes such as establishing faith schools and acts as a fine example for others. Today she has again shown her devotion and with the bloodline of Unasson in the King the two will combine to make a child very soon I feel. We are fortunate that the King has seen fit to take a beautiful and healthy woman as his wife following the betrayal of his first wife. Young Prince Llewellyn is threiving and I am praying that the Queen will have a daughter too to help carry on the holy line." Originally Denman had been critical of the King's relationship with Queen Stasya believing that the King should wed a follower of Helus however once she converted away from Sessifet Denman embraced the relationship and has been very supportive of Queen Stasya since describing her once as " a great pillar of our blossoming faith" The Sisterhood of Helus is a relatively new religion having seen Jinny Denman split from the mainstream Cult of Helus about a decade ago. The religion now boasts around a million followers in East Moreland. Its main difference is that it views Helus as female not male and that the various Gods are more like avatars of Helus rather than seperate Gods.

Later that evening Queen Stasya attended a performance of the Royal Ballet in Silverhills at an event that she had sponsered. She was not joined by the King who was involved in "meetings in Northfort". The Queen posed for photos and answered a few questions from the media saying, "I've loved being a Mum to Llewellyn and would like him to have another sibling. He's very lucky to have Rhiannon but I think someone similar in age is important. I would love to have a daughter and now with Helus' blessing I'm certain it will come." The Queen also commented on her recent flirtation with foreign affairs having signed an agreement to make Semelberg, a part of the Charterlands the Pelagiya family have taken leadership of, a member of the newly formed Council of Small Nations. "It was not my decision. Prince Bartholomew believed it was a policy that would help the small Principality and so as a result I was delighted to sign the agreement for him. This has zero impact on East Moreland, it just gives Prince Bartholomew a chance to have his people's voice heard on a global scale." The King has declined to comment on the matter other than by saying he wishes the newly formed Council "all the best". Prince Bartholomew is set to visit Ostlake soon where it is believed he will view military equipment that his nation may be buying in the near future.