Achkaerin News Service

[Achkaerin]

BYRNE AND DUFF TO "DO A LUSK?"

Doctor Daniel Byrne, Former Chair of the MHO

By Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

Doctor Daniel Byrne, otherwise known more widely as Danny Byrne, has announced his intention to establish a new Mundus wide health organisation. Doctor Byrne who previously served as the Lead Health Advisor of the Mundus Health Organisation, a subsidiary organisation of the CTO, explained his reasoning as follows: "In the time since the CTO in the view of many ceased to be effective we've seen a great many things happen in the field of health that shouldn't have happened as they have. We have for example in Olivia Robertsson a brilliant young woman who goes to Zimalia and runs entirely off her own back and with donations a HIV/AIDS clinic, it is frankly unbelievable that such good work does not get any MHO recognition or funding. We've now got a Midaranye nation employing a policy that adversely affects the health of its own citizens and only one nation calls them out on it? These are the sorts of things where the MHO should be showing leadership but honestly all the silence does is demonstrate yet again that the CTO is a pointless entity and it should once and for all be scrapped. However just because the CTO has to go does not mean to say that the institutions it established have to go, because let's be clear these are the ones with the potential to do great work. We have over the last year or so heard of a great many ideas in the medical field that can benefit everyone on Mundus, we have across Mundus a great variety of experts in different medical fields and we have those who speak from experience, the field of medicine is constantly advancing, each day and week we see further advances. Some time ago Melissa Lusk established an independent version of the Mundus Refugee Council in the IRSA to ensure that the good work carried out by that body continued, in the next few days I will hope to do the same with regards to the MHO by establishing something in its own right and I hope it will receive international support."

Amber Duff, former chief constable of the Mundus Crime Agency

In the same press conference Amber Duff the former Chief Constable of the Mundus Crime Agency announced her intention to explore the options in relation to establishing a common understanding on cooperation in terms of investigating and preventing international crime and ensuring that the mechanisms to assist justice being done were in place. Ms Duff didn't comment in detail but analysts do not expect an organisation to be formed from her efforts it's more likely that some sort of treaty will be proposed. Of course given the nature of what Doctor Byrne seeks to do something along the lines of a like for like is expected.

LEGACY RACING TAKE FIRST FORMULA MUNDUS POINT

By Nick Watson: Sports Correspondent

Legacy Racing, the Formula Mundus team of the Legacy Sport armed forces charity, a team comprised of wounded veterans of the Achkaerinese military has taken its first Formula Mundus point at the latest grand prix in Gowu. The race was won by Riviere Corporation Racing's Megan Harrison but it was Leia Armitage's tenth place finish that prompted the loudest celebrations of the weekend. Speaking after the race team Principal Vicky Black, a former Lieutenant in the Achkaerinese Navy who lost her lower right arm in a freak accident, said "For us this is as good as winning the race itself, we've been in the midfield all season and I think everyone understands the challenges we've got to face at each race. This point is for everyone who has supported us, it's for all our engineers, our designers, our families and everyone who has believed in us."

Also present at the race weekend in Gowu was Crown Princess Serenity, the founder of the Legacy Foundation and thereby Legacy Sport, when asked for comment she said that she was "Thrilled to see Legacy Racing get a point in its debut season. It shows anything is possible."

[Achkaerin]

CONSUL WILLIAMS RESPONDS TO WADDAN

By Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

Consul Michael Williams, the leader of Achkaerin's elected government, has responded to the latest comments from the Sultan of Waddan, the comments come in response to a concern raised by the Achkaerinese Government that has attracted interest across Midaranye, in response the Consul said the following:

"I think it's important to make clear the significant error in what the Sultan said, he stated 'Achkaerin elected to turn its back on its ancient ways of life' as well as other comments suggesting that Achkaerin has harmed the environment. Now when the initial statement was made on this water issue Minister Murray was very careful in that she did explain that it was not known what did and did not amount to a contribution to Waddan society because we accepted that we were not completely across their culture, it is unfortunate that the Sultan does not see fit to extend us the same consideration opting instead to make statements without consulting the appropriate sources. What the Sultan should be made aware of is that the Cult of Namis, the native faith of this nation, has been followed in this nation for millenia it has been the practiced faith of the overwhelming majority of the people of these lands even before Achkaerin was a unified state and has been followed diligently and devoutly to this day. Two of the faith's seven tenets explain this perhaps in the best way the third tenet states 'All things are connected to each other the air, the land, the sea, the animals and the flowers, this is the principle of life's rhythm.' and the seventh tenet states 'Care for Mundus, for you are the caretakers of the creation entrusted with its future.' these two tenets commit Achkaerin on religious grounds to an understanding that all life and elements are linked and that we must take care to look after our world. If anything this makes Achkaerin at its core a driven environmentally friendly nation perhaps that's why the environment has for a long time been high on the political agenda domestically, we are one of the leading nations in preparing for the world where fossil fuels are no longer in existence, we take this responsibility so seriously that when we took office in 2010 the Unity Party government of that time brought into law an Act of the Senate to ensure a reasoned and managed transition to renewable energy and fuels within a set time frame, for several years our industries have utilized alternative fuels and greener manufacturing methods and most recently our signature on the environmental treaty of Wellow commits the nation to a series of targets that we are more than confident of meeting at this time."

The Consul also explained that a potential meeting between himself and his counterpart the President of Safraen was being considered following Safraen's early moves towards a green economy seen in the suggestion of banning fossil fuel cars in a few years time.

INSIGNIA PROTOTYPE FLOATS AND MOVES, FLIGHT TEST PLANNED FOR END OF MARCH

By Kimberley Thorn: Science and Technology Correspondent

The Insignia, a ground effect vehicle envisioned as foundation for future commercial travel, has seen its first prototype hull undergo testing on the water, in that it floats and moves with an engine powering it, however the planned fuel source of hydrogen was not used in the test, instead electricity powered the Insignia for the short test. Speaking after the test Stella Campbell, the brains behind the project, said "This marks our first milestone in that we've achieved floatation and motion, in a couple of weeks we'll come back out hopefully with the hydrogen and see if the Insignia can fly. We're still hopeful of being at the Festival of Sail in a few months time with it, but for now we'll see how we go in two weeks."

FOX'S ON THE EDGE OF GLORY

Head coach Rayne Churchill

By Nick Watson: Sports Correspondent

Achkaerin's Men's Rugby Team have made it to the World Cup Final following their victory over Vaguzia in the semi final. It's an achievement that matches their performance at last years World Cup, where they were the runners up and this year fans are hoping they can go one better, however it's not going to be easy because standing in their way are the Iwi, on world ranking the second best in the world behind East Moreland, the defending champions and team that beat Achkaerin in last years final. But for head coach Rayne Churchill there's cause for optimism as she explained at her pre match press conference saying:

"The thing with finals is that strange things can happen, favourites can feel the pressure of expectation, underdogs can rise to the challenge, it only takes one moment of brilliance or stupidity to change the course of a final like this. And it is only one game if we played the Iwi ten times they'd probably win nine of them but it's one game and it's a straight up winner takes all affair, we're the underdogs we've got nothing to lose. We're ready for this and we're up for it, so I guess all that's left to say it's best of luck to both sides and may the best team win."

[Achkaerin]

CROWN PRINCESS RETURNS TO ROYAL DUTIES

By Niamh Roberts: Royal News Correspondent

A little over three months after the death of her husband Crown Princess Serenity has undertaken her first official Royal Duty since the tragic incident. The Crown Princess was the surprise VIP at Djana Azurewind Park - the nations largest sports complex, where she was opening the newest addition to the Park - the Medieval Mixed Martial Arts gym. Also on hand was national heavyweight champion James Chase who will be one of the resident pro's at the gym. Speaking following the opening the Crown Princess said "As a nation we've got a rich sporting history and we've seen the uptake in this sport since its Mundus Games debut two years ago and we've seen a lot of gyms spring up in that time, so to see the sport get a home in this park is quite significant and it'll likely be packed when time for the national trials rolls around."

The Crown Princess did have a go at the sport but it's probably safe to say she won't be giving up the day job, but judging from her engagement with the participants it could well be that she's a fan of it. Also speaking afterwards James Chase said "For our sport nationally this is a huge thing because we've now got a program that's treated in the same mainstream way as cycling, swimming, athletics and the like. We've got the facilities and we've got the personnel so we'll have to see what happens over the next few years but I'm hopeful that we can do something good here."

GOVERNMENT REACTION TO WMRA AND GUNGNIR

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Government has once again stated its approach to terrorism in the wake of the WMRA executing a Vaguzian soldier and the Gungir demands for Nya Aland to adopt their constitution. In defence questions this afternoon the Deputy Defence Minister Sally-Anne Seaborn (pictured above) explained the position saying - "Mr Speaker let's be very clear on this both situations will have specific and official government responses shortly, however I think everyone in this chamber and across the nation will be aware that our position is a very simple one - we do not negotiate with terrorists."

The Deputy Minister was also asked about the naval element of operations related to the Clysperi civil war to which she said "I appreciate the concern on this that is shared by Safraen and Vanora, and I'm sure they will understand that I can only speak for the Achkaerinese deployment when I answer this. From an Achkaerinese perspective the naval element of this conflict is found almost exclusively within the EEZ of Clysperis itself with the agreement of the Clysperi government, at the current moment we have three vessels operating in international waters in the Gulf of Safraen. Our intention with the naval element is very simple - to ensure that no potential aid for the so called Confederation reaches Clysperis's shores by sea. As I've said we do understand that such an operation would incur disruption however our current understanding of the situation on the ground is that the conflict is seemingly entering it's final stage, we're therefore hopeful that in a few days time we'll be in a position where the decision to stand down or scale down that component can be taken."

EDELWEISS 2020 TO RING THE CHANGES

By Zoe Tate: Entertainment Correspondent

The Edelweiss Festival may still be just over three months away but the Royal Family have teased some of this years big surprises, the festival which is organised largely by a committee led by Duchess of Valtheim and wife of the Emperor Renee Azurewind (pictured above) is arguably the largest annual fundraising event on Mundus put on for the nation by the Royal Family. In recent years this has seen the Royals with friends from across Mundus put on a production of Les Miserables and now traditionally sees the Royal Family provide the entertainment on the festivals penultimate night. When asked what to expect this year the Duchess explained as follows:

"We're going bigger this year, we're opening it up a lot more than in previous years we're going from just having the one venue of the Royal Theatre to multiple venues around Valtheim, we're putting a stage in Memorial Park, we're indebted to the Royal College of Music and Djana Azurewind Park for providing venues for events. We're also increasing the list of charities that we raise funds for this year. Now I know a lot of people will be wondering what the Royals are going to do this year and we're going back to musicals, we're going to stagger three musicals across the festival and for a new twist the public will get to vote on what two of them should be, we will then pick the third. We're also going to do opening night and the penultimate night. As for who's involved in this we're going to unveil that on my husbands birthday in a few days time. As in previous years we're planning to have a number of international artists and theatre companies involved, we've already got the Nyx Ballet coming I believe their dates correspond with the early part of the festival. And for a bit of fun this year we're putting the Emperor's two children with some friends up against each other in a series of sporting challenges for charity which do feature a couple of world record attempts."

FOXES WIN RUGBY WORLD CUP

By Nick Watson: Sports Correspondent

Achkaerin have won the Rugby World Cup, the Foxes who were huge underdogs in the final against the Iwi snatched the victory by a point three minutes after the hooter had sounded. In a close match the scoring stayed tight with neither side getting much of a lead, with five minutes to go the Iwi led 24-20 but a 78th minute lineout and a drive put the Foxes in position for a final attack. It was won when a cross field kick by fly half Liam Hendry was tapped down by full back Samuel Bolt allowing winger Ben Colt to gather and exploit created space to score the winning try. The team's head coach Rayne Churchill spoke after the match saying:

"I'm speechless, that is a match which I don't think we'll ever forget. We knew we had to keep it close, we knew that if the Iwi started to motor ahead that we needed to stay in contention and thankfully we were able to stay within a score but even then, needing a try against a team as good as the Iwi is not easy to manufacture but a little bit of creativity and we got the space. I couldn't be prouder of the players."

When asked about issues over the tournament Ms Churchill said:

"I don't want to be drawn too much into this tonight, but I do agree with my East Moreland counterparts on this, it's a little bit silly to play a tournament that requires the winning team to have to play twenty two games. Would two groups of ten or four groups of five been easier? From our point of view as competitors most likely yes and I'm sure over the next few days you'll see several domestic rugby federations asking the MRF for clarification on future world cup formats."

[Achkaerin]

SENATE RECESSES AS ELECTION LOOMS

Minister of Health Trini Malone

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Senate has brought its five year term to a close ahead of the 2020 election with a round of questions to the Minister of Health (minister Malone pictured above) following the customary period of questions, the Minister moved that the Senate enter into recess for the purposes of the election, a motion that was supported and campaigning will begin in earnest tomorrow. There was some question about why the Senate was entering into recess rather than the usual dissolution. When asked this by the leader of the opposition Senator Tobias Jorgenson, Senator Malone explained as follows: "As the Honourable Senator knows our procedures allow for dissolution by the Crown upon request of the Government or entering into recess with consent of the Crown. The difference in the procedure is that Dissolution automatically means that the Senate ceases to meet until after the election, entering into recess permits the current Senate to be recalled should circumstances require it. Given the potential for escalation in several places across Mundus at the moment and ongoing commitments elsewhere the Government believes the more responsible procedure is entering into recess."

Looking ahead to the election campaign there's an expectation that a key area will be foreign affairs followed closely by the economy and then Education and Defence, and with the Covenant Address following shortly after election day the platform for the future government to outline its vision is huge. Currently the Unity Party-Patriot Party coalition holds 262 seats in the Senate a majority of 13. In terms of largest parties the Unity Party has 188 seats and Endeavour (the main opposition party) holds 150. The expectation is that another coalition government will form, as outright victory is historically rare in Achkaerinese politics, but what the future government looks like is anyone's guess.

Achkaerin goes to the polls on the 14th of May.

"NOT TAKING CHANCES" - GEN ICERIDER

By Olivia Moore: International Affairs Correspondent

Lieutenant General Rhyth Icerider, the commanding officer of Achkaerinese troops operating inside Clysperis, has sounded a note of caution, the comments come shortly after the Pharaoh of Clysperis announced in a televised interview that she intended to call a halt to major combat operations tomorrow. Speaking from Achkaerin's main operations base inside Clysperis General Icerider said Every conflict like this generally has three stages you have the pre-war, the main conflict phase and then finally the post conflict stage. With Nekthou captured and the mass defections we've seen over the last few days it is reasonable to say that we've reached the end of the second phase, the so called Confederation's remaining forces are scattered, they have one stronghold left in Heshiken and the rest are out in the wilderness. Let's be clear ending major combat operations does not mean we're all going to suddenly stop fighting what's the left of the so called Confederation it just means that we don't need to make the major commitments in operations that we have made so far however we're not taking any chances. We're on the edges of Heshiken now, clearing it block by block, the defections mean we're facing far less resistance than would otherwise have been the case. Once Heshiken is secure our responsibility then shifts from frontline combat to support role as we transition responsibility for areas we currently hold back to the Kingdom's forces, so this conflict isn't at its conclusion yet we've just reached the end of one stage of it."

When asked about New Derusmia's involvement in the conflict the General said "I really hope they weren't involved in this, but if they were I think they owe a lot of people an explanation for why they'd choose to support a terrorist entity."

It is estimated that some 280 Achkaerinese troops have been killed in the Clysperi conflict with a further 600 injured.

AVALON FC SIGN NEW PLAYER IN HISTORIC DEAL

By Nick Watson: Sports Correspondent

Avalon Football club has made history today with the signing of midfielder Behdad Narsang who will become the first Tamoran to play in the Achkaerinese Premier League when the season starts following this years Mundus Games. Speaking about the signing the clubs manager Timothy Cohen said "We've seen over the last few years that football is developing across Mundus at a high rate, the standard of international competition is getting higher and predicting how the games will likely go get more difficult. We've also seen the development of new players with star potential Behdad is one of those players and we're very excited to have him join us."

[Achkaerin]

ELECTION RESULTS

By Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

The 2020 Achkaerinese Senate Election results (displayed above) have been released. It's been a night of high drama and the odd shock but with all constituencies declared we now know the result. So here's the analysis of the night.

The Result

The Unity Party: 194 Seats (+6)

Consul Michael Williams keeps his job as he has led the Unity Party to victory winning 194 out of the 500 seats, an increase of six seats from their 2015 result. The Consul had a long night to wait as his constituency of Broadchurch was among the first fifty to declare. His wife Siobhan Williams, Minister of Agriculture and the Environment and his son James Williams, Youth Minister, both retained their seats. Speaking once the result became clear the Consul said "We've had a great night, better than we dared to think but we're grateful to the public for the faith they've shown in us and come Monday we'll set about repaying that faith."

The Patriot Party: 82 Seats (+8)

The minority government partner had a better night than the Unity Party if taken on the balance of the seat gain/loss equation though they did come in under the predicted 85 seats in the exit poll. The party will continue to serve in coalition with the Unity Party according to its leader Rhian Kennedy. The biggest celebrations on the night did belong to the Patriot Party as they unseated the leader of the Endeavour Party, Harrison Carmichael taking one of the longest believed safe Endeavour seats by a margin of 170 votes in what will probably become the moment that best sums up the election. Strong with the young vote last time out the Patriot Party's vote share among the younger generation remains the highest of any party.

The Endeavour Party: 100 Seats (-50)

Where did it all go wrong? Never in the history of Achkaerinese politics has the Endeavour Party suffered a night as bad as this. Traditionally an opposition party would expect to gain seats instead they lost a third of their seats and saw their traditional strongholds fall, the town of Briarwood a long term Endeavour stronghold saw the party routed by the Green's, the Progressive Party made gains in Lakeside. In fact the night went so badly that the Endeavour Party even lost a seat to the Workers Alliance. But of course none of that will top the defeat of party leader Harrison Carmichael (pictured above) who lost his seat in the Senate and subsequently resigned as party leader. Commentators have suggested an unclear message and poor debate performance are key reasons why this manner of result was seen.

The Liberal Party: 75 Seats (+5)

Ajax Semantar's first outing as Liberal Party leader in an election went well, the party gained five seats which is three more than the exit poll predicted, narrowly taking the Rowanoak seat from the Progressive Party by 24 votes, the narrowest result of the night. There would have been hopes that with the Endeavour vote collapsing that the Liberals could have become the lead opposition party but they fell short of this. However for the first few weeks of the new Senate term expect that with the Endeavour Party looking for a new leader that it will be the Liberals holding the government to account.

The Green Party: 24 Seats (+18)

Arguably the big winners of the night were the Green's as they quadrupled their number of seats from 6 in the 2015 election to 24 on the night. With a clear campaign message focused on the environmental issues as well as the health and well being of the citizenry plus education, the green's garnered support so much so that they turned the traditional Endeavour red town of Briarwood completely green, a result that made party leader Thomas Lynsey (picture above) smile broadly as he declared "What we're seeing is the waking up of the people of this country and further afield across Mundus to the pressing issues that face our world whether it be the environment, the plight of those in poverty or those who cannot get access to an education. This result is a vindication of our message and we'll make sure that it's listened to."

The Progressive Party: 15 Seats (+8)

Rosemary Carter's Progressive Party more than doubled their number of seats but perhaps will view the election as a missed opportunity to make greater gains as outside of the Unison City area successes were few and the rise of the Green Party could suggest that the Party's position as the alternative to the 'Big Four' has been supplanted, the party will have to consider in the next few weeks what it can do moving forward and how in five years time they don't become wholly irrelevant in the world of Achkaerinese politics.

The Workers Alliance Party: 8 Seats (+5)

William Fort (pictured above) perhaps couldn't have imagined a result like this for the Worker's Alliance Party but a gain of five seats for a minor party is significant. A campaign which as always focused around worker's rights might go some way to explaining why the Endeavour Party's vote collapsed across the board. The big question though for the future will be does this signify a divergence between the Workers Alliance and Endeavour Parties?

The Republican Party: 2 Seats (+1)

It's safe to say that Adam Lonsdale (pictured above), leader of the Republican Party would have taken holding his seat in Scyll Junction as a good result for the night, given that the Republican movement in Achkaerin is extremely small. However not only did he hold his seat but the party may have been the toast of a fair amount of the nation's households for unseating the Puritan Party's leader in Scyll Cove. While it's unlikely that two republicans in the Senate will make any real difference in practical terms, this is not a night that they'll forget in a hurry.

The Puritan Party: 0 Seats (-1)

Sebastian Macquer, long time opinionated and in some quarters intolerable Senator, has led the Puritan Party since he founded it. However despite twenty five years in the Senate he lost his seat and it wasn't even to the expected challengers but to the Republicans, though the suspicion is that other parties threw their support behind the republicans in that one seat in a case of tactical voting. One thing is for sure the new Senate term will be a fair bit more cordial without Mr Macquer's now traditional barb trading with the Speaker's chair.

The Shock of the Night

There were no prizes for guessing the biggest shock of the night. Harrison Carmichael, the leader of the opposition, the leader of the Endeavour Party lost his seat to Jade Nightingale (pictured above) of the Patriot Party, the margin was 170 votes. If the shock from those watching the live results was anything to go by this was on no one's radar despite a growing confidence of the Patriot Party over the last few hours of voting that they might have pulled it off. But the number 15,972 has been trending on twitter following the declaration. Mr Carmichael was gracious in defeat and wished Ms Nightingale well for her term in office.

So what happens next? Well the Senate reconvenes on Monday where the formalities of swearing in the Senators and the election of a speaker are handled, after that the business of government will begin.

[Achkaerin]

SENATE GETS BACK TO WORK

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Senate has returned to work following the recent election with the customary swearing in of the Senators and then for the first time in ten years a Speaker election, this follows the decision of Oliver Thornton the previous Speaker to not seek re-election to the role. The Senate elected Robert Knight (pictured above) of the Green Party to the role. Following the election of the Speaker the Consul addressed the chamber outlining the priorities of the Government including continued commitment to the GETA 2014 Act, an assessment of Achkaerinese policy moving forward in relation to several issues, the security of the Northern Ocean and an immediate assessment of flashpoints across Mundus and what action may be required.

After the Consul outlined the Government's program the first question session of the new Senate term fell to Minister of Defence Adam Sheppard who answered questions on the status of Achkaerinese military deployments abroad, the progress of the Navy's 2023 evolution program and the recent Gungnir hack of the Theia Space Telescope. 

INSIGNIA FLIES

By Kimberly Thorn: Science and Technology Correspondent

The Insignia, a prototype GEV has flown for the first time, the vehicle that uses hydrogen as opposed to oil took to the air for the first time on a simple run into Gowu. The success marks the first of many tests that will be required before the Insignia is even ready for use and potentially export. Speaking after the test Stella Campbell who runs the project said [/i]"We're really happy with our progress today and now we'll continue to test over longer distances, but now we're really excited to see what happens next."[/i]

ARMITAGE WINS IN SILVERHILLS

By Felicity Stewart: Sports Correspondent

Leia Armitage has won the final Formula Mundus grand prix of the season in Silverhills. It marks a significant moment for Legacy Racing as it is the teams first win, the team comprised entirely of wounded veterans has not had the strongest of seasons however winning what could be called their home grand prix in some respects is a great way for them to sign off the season. Speaking afterwards the race winner, who was wounded while flying a Raptorwing in the Seaforth Eugenics War, said "I don't believe that just happened, I thought we were doing ok in the race and then after the pit stops I get the message 'Leia you're in third and on the quicker tyre good hunting' it took m right back to my air force days and then when we pitted again and got the undercut on the other two up the road I was surprised to end up at the head of the field."

[Achkaerin]

ACHKAERINS BIG PARTY WEEKEND

Celebrations in front of Artaxia Castle

By Emma Sullivan: Culture Correspondent

The Cult of Helus Community in Achkaerin has once again partied away on Greenflowers weekend in what has become the traditional manner, street parties, music and the much loved Aelmoor Watch Display (pictured above), the celebration in Artaxia has evolved from an annual marking of the marriage between East Moreland's King Paul otherwise known as Paul the Explorer and Achkaerin's Anezaki Ayanami, as explained by Hannah Barker the senior Priestess of the Cult of Helus in Achkaerin: "It would obviously seem a little weird for Cultists in Achkaerin to celebrate the birthday of another nation so we join in by marking the marriage of Paul the Explorer and Anezaki Ayanami which is when the Cult of Helus essentially took root on Achkaerinese soil kind of like this communities birthday, so much like East Moreland we've got an act of remembrance as we acknowledge the fallen cultists in the battle and then we have festivities including music, dance and some military drill aspects."

As has become tradition the Ayanami family, distant relatives of the Morelander Royal family, spent the day hosting those in Artaxia who are in he most need at Artaxia Castle and then providing an evening's entertainment with a ball before the traditional firework display at the end of the Aelmoor Watch Display. Lady Kristina, the Marqueeza of Aelmoor, and her husband Lord Steven (pictured above) also sent their birthday wishes to King David.

It wasn't just the Cult of Helus that celebrated over the weekend, the Muslim community also celebrated with Eid al-Fitr, the celebration at the end of the month of Ramadan, marks the breaking of the fast. The faithful spent the day in prayer and celebration as families gathered together to celebrate the occasion. Also the Achkaerinese Methodists got in on the celebrations over the weekend marking Aldersgate Sunday, or in simple terms the birthday of Methodism, while next Sunday the 31st of May marks the Christian festival of Pentecost this year otherwise known as the coming of the Holy Spirit.

HESHIKEN LIBERATED

Achkaerinese troops in Heshiken

By Olivia Moores: International News Correspondent

The city of Heshiken, the capital of the so called Confederation has been officially declared as clear of the rebels following an Achkaerinese offensive. The city officially fell last night as members of the Aelmoor watch captured what had been the central HQ of the rebels following a battle with the rebel remnants. Speaking afterwards Lt General Icerider said "It's a little odd to be out here fighting like this today of all days, the historical similarities being what they are. But today much like our Cultist brethren all those centuries ago we stand on a field of battle with the rebels routed. We now begin the process of handing over responsibility for areas of Clysperis under our control back to Clysperi forces and once that begins to happen we'll be in a position to begin a phased withdrawal as soon as we have the logistics covered."

ECHO ARCHAEOLOGY SENDS ARK BACK TO VANORA

By James Robson: Home Affairs Correspondent

Echo Archaeology has sent what they believe to be the Ark of the Covenant back to Vanora. The Ark a long lost Christian relic was found in Phuebra, the search for the Ark became the obsession of noted deceased archaeologist Jonathan Bell so perhaps it was fate that it was a team led by his daughter Melanie Bell that found the Ark. In a search that led her from Abydos, to Royal Seleucid, to Tamora and then finally Phuebra. Speaking before boarding a flight to take the Ark back to Vanora Ms Bell, the Countess of Elsion said "I don't want to speculate on what my father would say if he were here, I hope he'd be proud but I'll never know. I don't want to make an Ozzie style acceptance speech because it's a long list of people to thank but I would like to mention Professor Men-nu Sebek-em-of from Ashmaremu University, who brough the information that allowed us to begin the journey that led us to the Ark and my team at Echo for everything they did on this."

LAWSON ON ALBA KARINYA TOUR

By Nick Watson: Sports Correspondent

Sammy Lawson has spoken to us ahead of the inaugural Tour De Alba Karinya cycle race that gets underway tomorrow. Speaking ahead of the first stage of the race, an individual time trial in Mogebbe, she said "This is going to be a very interesting event, we're used to racing single stage races, straight point to point with first over the line winning. So to have all these jerseys not to mention the timing factor across stages to think about is another matter entirely, it's not like anything any of us have raced before so it's going to be a learning experience for everyone."

Sammy Lawson will probably be one of the favourites for the event but with it being across eighteen stages its yet to be seen what the additional factors will bring.

[Achkaerin]

PATRONUS DRONE TESTS WELL AADC AND RIVIERE PLEASED

By Penny Noble: Defence Correspondent

AADC (Achkaerin Aeronautical Development Company) and Riviere Corporation have tested out the Patronus Drone's. The small drones built by Riviere Corporation performed according to expectations being successfully launched from the pylons on a Nightingale type aircraft, though this could easily be substituted for the hardpoint on a fighter jet or helicopter. The capabilities of the Patronus drone cover a multitude of possibilities from battlefield surveillance to cruise missile like strikes. The real trick though lies in being able to recover the drones in the air, which is where AADC's modification of a Nightingale comes in. Something that looks slightly like aerial refuelling but also involves clamping a recovered drone to secure it and bring it aboard (as seen on the above image), the hard part in the recovery is the speed because if deployed in a military environment being able to recover the drones at a reasonable pace will be significant. However the Air Force appears satisfied with the test.

In other Defence related news the Ministry of Defence has declined to comment on the recent developments surrounding the Merina Civil War however the Round Table Conference is believed to be discussing the matter.

[Achkaerin]

RIVIERE TO TRIAL DRONE BASED WIFI OVER AELMOOR

By Kimberley Thorn: Science and Technology Correspondent

Riviere Corporation is to trial a drone based wifi coverage system for the province of Aelmoor, the province is rural with many small villages and towns, the luck of the geography does mean that it could appropriately be described as the "back of beyond." the nature of the province apparently makes it an ideal testing area for this Riviere Project as explained by CEO Catriona Rowan who said: "About three years back we concocted a similar idea for the Republic of Frystjörd, and it worked reasonably well the system was able to provide coverage over that area. This is the first scaling up of the area we've done with this idea as Aelmoor is a larger area than Frystjörd was. We're hoping to be able to provide the communication and internet access using these drones as a network. For safety reasons we will be keeping away from the flight paths in and out of airports and so on. Our trial will last a year and we'll evaluate the project at the end of that."

The drone to be used in the trial is known as the Midnight Type (pictured above), solar powered and capable of long distance, high altitude flight according to Riviere Corporation.

LAWSON LEADING AFTER THREE STAGES

By Felicity Stewart: Sports Correspondent

Sammy Lawson leads the inaugural Tour de Alba Karinya after three stages. She won the very first stage of the event, an individual time trial through the streets of Mogebbe in Zimalia, and while she has yet to win a road race stage she has managed a consistent performance so far giving her both the yellow jersey and the white jersey at this stage. However she's got plenty of competition, speaking to us ahead of the next stage she gave the following comment: "It's great to be in yellow and to also hold the white jersey as well is something I wasn't expecting. There are still fifteen stages to go and we'll see what happens in the next few stages."

[Achkaerin]

YELLOWTONGUE MEASURES ENACTED

The White Deer herd of the Ayanami family is set to be tested for Yellowtongue in the coming days

By Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

With the outbreak of Yellowtongue having spread across Mundus with several nations now reporting cases and enacting measures designed to contain and prevent the spread of the virus. The Achkaerinese Government's measures were announced earlier  and include a ban on the importing of livestock, a testing program to be carried out through out Achkaerinese territory for Yellowtongue and vaccine development. When asked to explain the measures the Minister of Agriculture and the Environment Siobhan Williams said "We do not at present have any reported cases of Yellowtongue within the mainland Achkaerin area, what we do have are reports of Yellowtongue in the Ardian Peninsula area so we're being pre-emptive and looking at how we can take steps to prevent this virus from spreading further than it has so far. It may be a matter for continental bodies such as the Ardian Assembly, Council of Albion and the AKO for example. And we will have measures in place in the coming days to support those adversely affected by this. We're very clear that the incubation period of this virus means that no reports does not mean no virus, we may not be a huge meat importer, in fact we export more meat but we do have a lot of livestock importing so we need to be looking at what has been imported in the last month or two to be safe and apply steps in regards to testing across the board."

Development of the vaccine is to be led by Riviere Corporation in conjunction with other partners, CEO of the corporation Catriona Rowan spoke about the process saying "Development of any vaccine takes time, we're not going to have this thing figured out by the end of next week. We do have an advantage in that there are apparent similarities between Yellowtongue and the more commonly known Bluetongue so there is a foundation from which we can develop so our first step is sample analysis to determine is this virus a mutation of Bluetongue or is the similarity coincidence. But to sound an optimistic note we could well be in a better place with Yellowtongue than we were a few years ago with the Kaiju virus."

EDELWEISS MUSICALS AND CAST REVEALED

By Zoe Tate: Entertainment Correspondent

The Edelweiss Festival schedule has yet to be released but the Organising Group has revealed which three musicals the Royal Family are putting on as well as who is starring in those productions. Following a vote the two public choices for musicals were Wicked and Anything Goes. In addition the choice of the Royal Family is Oliver! The three musicals will each be staged at the Royal Theatre and spread through the festival, the precise order is not yet known however it is expected that Wicked will be the last of the three to be performed. Also released were the cast lists for each musical:

Elphaba: Katyusha Andronikashivili
Glinda: Serenity Azurewind
Fiyero: Jack Azurewind
The Wizard: Peter Azurewind
Nessarose: Adrian Anselmo
Madame Morrible: Juliet Ninet Lili Foussard
Doctor Dillamond: Arthur Whitaker
Boq: John Gliss
Chistery: Alan Gliss
Witch's Father: Leonardo Amberbrook
Witch's Mother: Annabelle Amberbrook
Midwife: Harper Rhodes
Dorothy: Charlotte Wilmington

Reno Sweeney: Renee Azurewind
Billy Crocker: Jack Azurewind
Moonface Martin: Simon Azurewind
Hope Harcourt: Katyusha Andronikashivili
Lord Evelyn Oakleigh: Peter Azurewind
Elisha Whitney: George Whitaker
Evangeline Harcourt: Juliet Ninet Lili Foussard
Erma: Sakura Sheppard
The Captain: Tommy Atkine
Purser: William Amberbrook
Luke: Robin Amberbrook
John: Amulius Amberbrook

Oliver Twist: Augustin of Uburzis
Fagin: Peter Azurewind
Bill Sikes: Tommy Atkine
Artful Dodger: John Gliss
Nancy: Serenity Azurewind
Mr Bumble: Leonardo Amberbrook
Mr Sowerberry: Steven Ayanami
Mrs Sowerberry: Kristina Ayanami
Noah Claypole: Robin Amberbrook
Mr Brownlow: William Amberbrook
Old Sally: Juliet Ninet Lili Foussard
Mrs Bedwin: Amelia Whitaker
Widow Corney: Renee Azurewind
Charlotte: Charlotte Wilimington
Bet: Sakura Sheppard
Dr Grimwig: George Whitaker

INFAMOUS CARRIER TO SERVE IN IMPERIAL NAVY

By Penny Noble: Defence Correspondent

The HMS Leonard I is perhaps one of the most famous aircraft carriers on Mundus however unlike the likes of the REMNS King Robert, INS Intrepid, IRN Elsa and RSS Red Crown it isn't its operational history that is remembered. It is remembered as the naval vessel that bankrupted Vaguzia, so maybe the most infamous aircraft carrier is a better description. However after four years later, most of it spent in ensuring the vessel met the standards of the Imperial Navy the HMS Leonard I is to serve in the Achkaerinese Navy, the vessel re-christened the INS Discovery is due to set sail in two weeks. Director of Naval Operations Joseph Stapleton commented on the announcement saying "This is not the sort of thing we would have ever anticipated, we didn't expect to ever have a lighter carrier after we decommissioned the Azurewind class around four years ago, so when we get asked 'can you find a use for this carrier we're going to buy from Vaguzia?' Naval Command had a bit of a smile on its face, we were hoping to have it in service with the Imperial Navy a couple of years ago but we've had a few setbacks with it, but we're past them now."

[Achkaerin]

GOVERNMENT INTRODUCES ARMED FORCES PLAN

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Government has introduced the long awaited report that details recommendations for the Achkaerinese Armed Forces moving forwards over the next few years, the report was slightly delayed following the recent outcome of the Awhaele referendum but when Deputy Minister of Defence Sally-Anne Seaborn took to the dispatch box in the Senate there was understanding and there was anticipation, the Deputy Minister outlined the program as follows:

"Mr Speaker, it is my honour to introduce to the Senate the Armed Forces Report commissioned by the Ministry of Defence. This report was asked for following the end of the Phuebra conflict and makes several proposals as to major developments to ensure the continued effectiveness of the Achkaerinese military, some will have heard this report referred to as the 2023 plan, as parts of this report detail a position to be aspired to by that year.

We begin with the Awhaele situation and how that effects the reports recommendations. It will come as no surprise that the Awhaele Defence Force will be brought under the Achkaerinese military umbrella, this will mean that the training and development aspects of this report will be applied to Awhaele this will also include for the first time since the formation of the Armoured Corps in 1912 that there will be a new contingent to the Achkaerinese Army with the creation of an Awhaele based regiment. Details on that such as name are being determined. We hope to be able to smoothly transition through training programs members of the Awhaele Defence Force into the Achkaerinese military.

Ongoing projects across the Armed Forces that are being developed for the future remain in development, however Senators will note that several projects are nearing their completion, mainly in the naval element of the Armed Forces - the Specula class is to enter service, an order for two further GPPS's is under consideration and finally there's the Elder Project. In the Air Force the Patronus Program has been completed, continued developments of projects for the future of the air force remain on going."

[Achkaerin]

THE PLAN TO SAVE THE RED SQUIRREL

By James Robson: Home Affairs Correspondent

The national animal of Achkaerin might be the fox and it might well be a fox that appears on the national flag however there's another red animal that the public has a deep affection for, the red squirrel once a thriving domestic species in Achkaerin it is now down to approximately a population of 140,000 landing it a place on the WMO's endangered species register, the species is so rare now that it's only seen in places like Valkyria National Park, Rowanoak Woods and West Vale National Park. So what has led to the decline of this beloved animal? Well it's the grey squirrel, a breed that was introduced to Achkaerin around two hundred years ago from Ardia, the grey squirrel carries the squirrel parapox virus that is fatal to red squirrels. Grey squirrels are viewed as vermin by most of the population with conservationists and landowners in particular viewing them as pests and one of the most harmful invasive species in Achkaerin.

However this two hundred year reign of the grey squirrel could be about to come to an end. Scientists from Riviere Corporation led by Doctor Alex Minchin (pictured centre above) have a plan to restore the red squirrel to its rightful place. By genetically modifying captured male grey squirrels to carry a "gene drive", the modified squirrels are then to be released into the wild, the gene would ensure that any females that inherited it are sterile, while males would be unaffected to allow them to keep spreading it to ensure the population eventually dies out. Speaking after outlining the plan Doctor Minchin said "If you go down to Ardia you'll find these grey squirrels all over the place, so this measure won't, because of the involved distances, eliminate the grey squirrel globally what it will do is domestically cull the grey squirrel and give the native Achkaerinese red squirrel the chance to thrive again."

[Achkaerin]

SHOCK INTERVIEW WITH EMPEROR PETER

Emperor Peter and his wife Renee[1]

By Niamh Roberts: Royal News Correspondent

Emperor Peter has surprised the nation and potentially many more across Mundus by revealing in a live interview with Roisin Shaughnessy[2] that he has been diagnosed with a relapsing remitting form of Multiple Sclerosis, appearing live from the west lounge of the Marble Palace the Emperor, alongside his wife, explained the diagnosis and answered questions about what it meant. Within moments of the interview being broadcast Royal Press Secretary Hannah Cartwright and Royal Physician Doctor Maddy Dale were leading a press conference on the matter in addition the Emperor was receiving words of support from Senators, business leaders and members of the Achkaerinese nobility. And what of the public themselves, what of the average person in the street? The indications are that the Emperor has the support of the public.

1.	OOC - some will note that this isn't who has previously been used as Renee face claim wise. I've swapped images around a bit and now have Holliday Grainger rather than Annabelle Wallis as Renee (it's just easier to put the two rl people in the same picture)
2.	Assume that the third section of the linked vignette which is the interview is public knowledge

[Achkaerin]

SCHOOL RESULTS DAY ROUND UP

By Heather Moss: Education Correspondent

Across the nation students at all three tiers of Achkaerinese education have been finding out if they've made the grade or not. For the educational year 2019-2020 there's been a slight increase in students receiving grades in the O*-A band[1] at High School level, the amount of students receiving at least five A's increased again slightly this year up to 96%. There appears to be a scientific shift occurring at HSQ level[2] as well as subjects in that area continue to become more popular as electives. Also of interest was a substantive increase in the number of students studying an additional language at HSQ level in addition to the core two, the top performing school according to this years league tables was Mornington Crescent High School in Solaria. In terms of the core subjects - Achkaerinese, English, Maths, Basic Science, PE, and Religious Studies the pass rate averaged out at 92%. Other conclusions drawn from the statistics are that girls had a higher pass rate than boys, the children from what are traditionally held as disadvantaged backgrounds are closing the gap and record numbers of students are heading to study at Future Level.

As for Future Level[3] the O-A band was achieved at a record level of 94%, the most popular subjects this year were history, law, politics, economics, sociology, physics, engineering and sports science. Topping the table at Future Level was Empress College at Lady Morgana High School. In terms of the Skills Curriculum, now in its second year, the pass rate increased dramatically up to 90%. The split between those heading for university against those opting for an apprenticeship remains in favor of university study but now at 51-49.

University level saw the least surprises the degree level spread saw 10% achieve a first class degree, 45% an upper second class, 40% a lower second and 5% a third class. The Artaxia/Freshwater battle was won once again by the University of Artaxia as it retained top spot in the league table, Freshwater University in second, Elsion University retained third followed by the Royal Valtheim University in fourth and the Achkaerin University of Arts and Culture in fifth. For the second year running the top performing college at the University of Artaxia was Queen's College.

NEW LEGAL CENTRE OPENS IN VALTHEIM

By James Robson: Home Affairs Correspondent

The long awaited new legal centre in Valtheim has opened. The centre originally tendered for four years ago will be the seat of the Uppsalla Convention Court and the Cross-Straits Court of Justice among others in a designated court building while space for legal offices is also factored into the complex, it's understood that Shield Law, a small firm presently operating out of KHELP have already acquired some office space in the centre, it is also understood that JAG corp of the Achkaerinese military will have a building within the centre. Speaking after the opening of the centre Minister of Justice Thomas Archer said "This has been a long time in the making, for a while now Achkaerin has had the reputation of being 'Mr Treaty' which it comes to the international landscape and the result of that has been that as a nation we've been entrusted with providing a home for these courts, it is a responsibility that we as a government will always take very seriously."

The first case to be heard in the new centre is expected to be the case against the former leader of the so called Confederacy of Clysperis Nekhtou.

1.	OOC - some time ago I modeled Ach's grade system after the Harry Potter model to be different so rather than ABC Ach's grades go OEA
2.	Think GCSE - exam at 16 years old
3.	16-18 year old education

[Achkaerin]

SENATE DEBATES HUMAN TRAFFICKING MEASURES

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Senate has begun debating countermeasures in response to the unfolding human trafficking crisis, however it is likely that none of the Senators have ever been part of a debate quite like this one before, why? Because in an unprecedented series of events the basic detail of the Government's approach was made known to the Senators and the public by a press statement of the Diarchy of Hassfurt. A statement that saw an urgent statement made by Leader of the Senate Chamber Elena Brooke (pictured above) who said:

"Mr Speaker, today the Senate will be asked to debate a proposal for action in respect of a suspected global human trafficking network. As Senators will be aware if only from Hassfurt press release this approach includes an enforcement measure under the Fair Seas Concordat, a measure that will be outlined by the Attorney General at the start of the debate. Mr Speaker this government has always where possible and appropriate given advance notification to regional nations across Mundus when action has been considered in their locality and in this instance that was observed by communication with MICA, which ensured that the greatest number of Illumic nations were given such notification including East Moreland, Seaforth and Zimalia. And yet rather than respond to our initial communication with requests for clarification, rather than ask the questions we get this. That Hassfurt have then chosen to publish publicly privately communicated information is not in our view remotely acceptable and the government will be reassessing future communications with the Diarchy as a result of this."

It was then the turn of the Attorney General Robert Westbrooke to outline the precise case behind the Government's choice of action stating:

"Mr Speaker in terms of what is put to the Senate for debate and vote the proposed action relies on article 110 of the Fair Seas Concordat paragraph 1 of which allows foreign vessels to be boarded on the high seas when there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the ship in question is engaged in piracy, is engaged in the slave trade, is engaged in unauthorized broadcasting, has no nationality or is flying a foreign flag but in reality is the same nationality as the warship. Therefore in order to enact this provision we require two things to be present first a reason under article 110 and second reasonable suspicion.

The nature of human trafficking by definition is "the trade of humans for the purpose of forced labour, sexual slavery, or commercial sexual exploitation for the trafficker or others. This may encompass providing a spouse in the context of forced marriage, or the extraction of organs or tissues, including for surrogacy and ova removal. Human trafficking can occur within a country or trans-nationally. Human trafficking is a crime against the person because of the violation of the victim's rights of movement through coercion and because of their commercial exploitation." Senators familiar with terminology in terms of the Senate's debates on other matters will see here familiar phrases such as 'forced labour' and 'sexual slavery' and with that in mind Mr Speaker the Government contends that under this definition engagement in human trafficking is engagement in the slave trade and that is a reason why under article 110 of the Fair Seas Concordat a vessel can be stopped.

Reasonable suspicion Mr Speaker is as those who've studied the law or worked in legal fields will know is "a legal standard of proof that is less than probable cause, the legal standard for arrests and warrants, but more than a "confused and unparticularized suspicion or 'hunch'"; it must be based on "specific and articulable facts", "taken together with rational inferences from those facts" So Mr Speaker what specific facts does the Government base its action on? First we have a statement from the East Moreland Ministry of Defence and I quote:

"It appears that the Borlanders are acquiring people from various nations across Mundus and funneling them into Zimalia via ports in Zimalia, East Moreland and potentially Heyra, Hassfurt and Vaguzia. We also believe crossings of the Illumic from Seaforth may be taking place. Once in Zimalia it is believed that the people are being effectively sold or in some cases smuggled elsewhere."

Mr Speaker this is an East Moreland Ministry of Defence statement, it apportions probable responsibility to the Borland Separatists and then says that the network in question is believed to have Zimalia as either a central or end point. In addition it suggests crossings of the Illumic from Seaforth may be occurring as part of this trafficking operation. Again Mr Speaker I come back to the source of this statement it is an East Moreland Ministry of Defence statement, this isn't idle speculation on the part of Gossip Daily or something from a sensationalist news outlet, it's not even an early doors police statement. This is a statement from effectively the East Moreland Government it has weight Mr Speaker and given the track record of the East Moreland government in investigative matters relating to and their expertise on the Borland Separatists, it is probable that the statement I quoted a moment ago is accurate and there exists no present reason to doubt its validity. From this fact then Mr Speaker we draw the following points that Zimalia is where victims of trafficking are probably being taken to, that they are probably arriving at ports in Zimalia, East Moreland and may also be arriving in other ports such as Heyra, Hassfurt and Vaguzia. The statement also implies that there may be crossings from Seaforth to Alba Karinya ports occurring and the inference drawn from that implies that sea and air crossings are both potentially involved and when one considers risk assessment nature of trafficking routes in terms of possible apprehension of the trafficker the probability of sea crossing increases, we also have Mr Speaker the fact that some of those rescued by East Moreland are from Nueva Ardia, Toshikawa and Lodja and we may see an amendment to the proposal put down to limit the effect of the stop and search to vessels flying specific flags however we know Zimalia is apparently where they are going to and there is reason to believe that there are routes from many different nations involved so based on that the question becomes "Is it reasonable when considering the context to believe that a given vessel travelling to Zimalia might have trafficked people aboard?"

Now Mr Speaker let’s look at what we have here, we have an East Moreland Government statement that puts Zimalia at the centre of this network, it’s apparent from the same statement that we’re highly likely to be talking about land, sea and air as travel methods, so given that Zimalia is at the centre of this network and people are being trafficked to Zimalia again as implied by the East Moreland statement it is reasonable to believe that ships traveling by sea to Zimalia could have victims of trafficking on them and that sounds an awful lot like reasonable suspicion to me Mr Speaker.

It is acknowledged, Mr Speaker, that reasonable suspicion does not always result in that suspicion discovering criminality in which instance paragraph 3 of article 110 becomes active "If the suspicions prove to be unfounded, and provided that the ship boarded has not committed any act justifying them, it shall be compensated for any loss or damage that may have been sustained." - if enacted this would apply to any vessel that is boarded and is in fact proved innocent of trafficking."

MEET THE TITAN

By Penny Noble: Defence Correspondent

It looks like something that belongs in science fiction but make no mistake about it the Titan is very much a reality. Standing at 3.4 metres tall it's a two legged exoskeleton robot with a cockpit for a driver. However let's tame those scientific imaginings for a moment this thing doesn't move like an AT-ST from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, it's not a walker instead it shuffles on its feet. At the moment it's only armed with two cannons that fire rubber or plastic balls but this latest offering from the Achkaerin Rifling Company is something a little bit different, for the moment it's set to undergo testing and it remains to be seen whether the Achkaerinese Army or police would be interested in the Titan however Lt General Wilcox has commented saying: "The days when vast numbers of similar machines march across battlefields are a very long way off, but we're certainly going to be interested to carry out the testing and see what the potential future of warfare looks like."

CEO of ARC Timothy Cross commented saying "The Titan was conceived as a proof of concept idea for the notion of robotic based defence. It's probably got more viability with law enforcement than the military at the moment but I'll be interested to see what the military says about it."

[Achkaerin]

LUNA ISLE RESTORATION WORK ANNOUNCED

By Sophia Vilani: Religion and Culture Correspondent

Luna Isle is to be the site of what has been described as "essential but non critical" restoration work. The Island home to several holy sites of the Namis faith will see work carried out on parts of the Temple of the Trinity and the Convent of the Maiden Sister Order, the details of the work were explained by a spokesperson for the Cult who said "We're in a situation where we're pre-empting what the situation may be in a few years time in terms of the building condition, it's something that is reviewed on an annual basis. In addition to the building work on the Temple of the Trinity we'll be taking the opportunity to have several of the paintings in the Temple's art gallery and features in the sanctuary area restored as well. Unfortunately this work will entail that different parts of the island will be closed off for safety reasons at different times while the work is carried out. We hope to have the work completed by the end of next year."

The spokesperson did confirm though that the annual ceremony at the Shrine of Yve, that sees the Mundus Game Flame handed over, would go ahead as normal.

[Achkaerin]

"TEAM ACHKAERIN WILL COMPETE IN MUNDUS GAMES" - PRINCESS ESME

Nick Watson: Sports Correspondent

It's been a rapid fire couple of days for the sporting community on Mundus, the Mundus Games are heading to Midaranye following a successful joint Tamoran-Seleucid bid, followed right on the heels by nations such as Tytor and Izhitsa boycotting the games over the continued practice of slavery in Tamora and indentured servitude in Royal Seleucid. In contrast however Team Achkaerin is set to compete according to the chef de mission Princess Esme Azurewind who took time away from overseeing the national trials to talk about the last few days saying:

"The first thing to say is that we never politicize the Games themselves, we've never done that and we never will. The second thing to say is that every nation on Mundus has known for months that the Games going to Midaranye was a possibility it was without question the most public of bids we've ever seen in Mundus Games history, most of the time you don't know who's going to bid until you get into the MGC building and get handed the folder, the vote was free and fair and while there is a concern with the vote that concern does not relate to the outcome. Therefore knowing that the Games could end up in Midaranye we at Team Achkaerin have had ample time to plan out what we would do in this situation, having spent a long time in many meetings with the heads of the national sporting bodies we've decided that Team Achkaerin will compete in the Games this year because we do not politicize sport and as a result we're not about to deny any athlete the opportunity to pull on the white and gold kit of the nation and realize their career ambitions. Now some will say to that "well why not boycott and athletes can compete under the MGC flag?" One of the reasons we say no to that is because the MGC flag could only cover individual events, we couldn't enter the Achkaerinese football team under the MGC flag. However while we will have a Team Achkaerin present it will be for each of the athletes to decide for themselves if they want to compete, at the end of the day it is their careers so it should be their choice.

We will however opt to base our entire team out of Royal Seleucid during the games and transport the athletes competing in events based in Tamora across the border as necessary, we do this because we have a policy of cross discipline coaching and splitting the team between two places would in our view hinder the ability of our athletes to give their best to these Games."

[Achkaerin]

GODFATHER OF SPACE EXPLORATION DIES

By Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

Jerry Bauer the man known as the Godfather of Achkaerinese space travel has died aged 93. Mr Bauer was instrumental in the setting up of the Royal Achkaerin Space Agency[1] in 1948, he would serve as the RASA's director from it's institution until 2005 when he formally retired, having seen the first Achkaerinese astronaut launched into space, first Achkaerinese astronaut on the moon, first Achkaerinese satellite launch and many other milestones occur during his tenure. His achievements were so great that he was named Viscount of Djana-Ville in 1973 and it would be a role of significant importance for his life's work as it provided the platform for him to defend, publicly, the continued funding of RASA in the face of the then Endeavour Party led government's policies. With the future of the RASA secured Bauer retired from director of the agency in 2005 though he did occasionally drop in to see many of the new faces that have worked at the agency in more recent years. The current director of the RASA Gary Hale said "Jerry wasn't a titan of Achkaerin space exploration, he was the titan of Achkaerin space exploration this is a man who not only established and grew the RASA from the ground up but when its future was on the line he defended it to the hilt, if not for him in so many ways this agency wouldn't be here today. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and family at this time. And we look forward to giving Jerry the send off he deserves."

The Marble Palace has confirmed that the noble title held by the family will be made hereditary making his daughter Mia the Viscountess of Djana-Ville.

1.	OOC - slight rename to avoid acronym confusion

[Achkaerin]

MUNDUS GAMES PREVIEW PART ONE

By Felicity Stewart: Sports Correspondent

Today the Achkaerinese team for this years Mundus Games left for Royal Seleucid, the Games are the annual showpiece event of the sporting calendar showcasing the best of sport on Mundus. For some lesser known or lesser followed sports it's also the chance to get some time in the spotlight. For others it's the chance to compete against the best in the world, this year will see medals in spikeball and rock climbing awarded for the first time. But in terms of Achkaerin's medal contenders there's only one place to start and that's Sammy Lawson, the twenty two year old cyclist, the most decorated Mundus Games medalist with twenty two medals, winner of the white jersey in the Tour de Alba Karinya and once again the team captain, chosen by her fellow athletes. Sammy will be looking to add to her medal count as she goes on both road and in the velodrome, her first chance comes on the second day of the Games in the women's road race she'll have arguably the strongest team around her that she's ever had on the road, but it is in the velodrome where most of her opportunities lie. Speaking ahead of the Games Sammy said: "It's never easy if anything it gets harder and harder each year because everyone gets better, everyone's conditioning improves and when you're the one with a target on your back you have to get used to being marked by everyone else. Hopefully I can get a few medals this year and keep my tally going but I'll be happy as long as I leave everything on the road and track."

Triathlon is not a high coverage sport though it is popular in Achkaerin, leading by example are the Carter brothers Andrew (above right) and Tim (above left) they will both compete in the individual event and will make up half the team for the mixed team triathlon relay alongside Molly Cooper and Vicky McKenna, last time out Achkaerin's triathletes achieved a clean sweep securing all three triathlon gold medals, and they'll be every intention of repeating that success this time. But with stiff competition it will not be easy.

Delphine Meadows is probably a name unfamiliar to the overwhelming majority of people, there are likely many reasons for this, first she's only seventeen years old, second she plays volleyball - a sport only just about to become professional in Achkaerin so very much in its infancy there and finally when the sport of volleyball is discussed we generally speak about Tytor and Floodwater, this year due to the boycott the big name players aren't there so the competition is perhaps thrown wide open. Delphine will also compete in the spikeball alongside Luke Dixon.

Now to Medieval MMA, not a new sport to the Games but an expanded event list for this year and more global popularity will likely see increased interest. James Chase, the national heavyweight champion, will compete for Achkaerin in the Mens individual heavyweight event in one of three medal attempts he makes, teaming up with compatriot Daniel Bridges in the heavyweight duo and then alongside Alyssa Nettles in the mixed heavyweight duo. When asked about his chances James said: "To get past nations who've been at this sport a lot longer than we have is going to be a challenge, I'm really looking forward to seeing how I stack up against the best in the world and I'm looking forward to fighting alongside Alyssa the duo is still a new format in the sport so it's going to be really interesting to compete in as well as watch."

Sticking with Medieval MMA for possibly one of the more interesting stories set to play out in the Games this year, the selection of Ren Nekhaga in the lightweight categories of the Medieval MMA for Achkaerin. So why's this interesting? Ren is the step son of wanted fugitive James Ironside, known for an attempted coup of the East Moreland throne, which makes him the step nephew of the King of East Moreland. With no real competition experience Ren gets the nod through the national trials method and while he's probably not the best medal hope in the sport he has perhaps the most interesting story to tell but will it be a fairytale moment?

[Achkaerin]

MUNDUS GAMES PREVIEW PART TWO

By Felicity Stewart: Sports Correspondent

Continuing our look at some of Achkaerin's medal contenders and noted competitors for this years Mundus Games we come to the area of gymnastics and the return of Erin Brooks (pictured above), having surprisingly medaled on debut in last years games on the floor individually she goes in search of more medals this time around and with Achkaerinese gymnastics still somewhat in a period of transition following the retirement of Abigail Snowden from competition two years (she's now a coach with Achkaerinese gymnastics) this years games present an opportunity to see how this new team are shaping up. Erin goes in three events, the all around team event, the individual all around and the individual floor.

Achkaerin's footballers need little to no introduction whatsoever, three time world cup winners on the mens side, world number one's in both the mens and womens games, once again they will go in search of gold and they'll be confident of achieving that success and with good reason especially on the men's side of the game because to find the last time they lost a game in ninety minutes you need to go back to when Tytor hosted the World Cup - that year the Fox's lost 5-0 in the semi final to Blue Shadow. However while this may be the gold medal that is 'demanded' in much the same way that East Moreland fans may 'demand' the rugby seven's gold medals it s not a medal taken for granted because the Alander's have proven themselves capable of running Achkaerin close before and will hope to again.

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SENATE APPROVES CROSS STRAITS COMMUNITY SIGNATURE

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Senate has ratified the Cross-Straits Community Charter, making it the second of the Cross Straits Nations to do so. The move which sees the Cross Straits Union and Cross Straits Treaty Organisation brought together under a banner was highly praised by some Senators through the course of debate. Opening up the debate Johnathon Hunt, Minister of Cross Straits Affairs said "What is proposed is something that is long overdue, for too long we have had a situation where without reference to each other the CSTO and CSU can come to contrary positions and decisions on any particular crisis, however the current crises faced by the nations of Mundus, the current issues faced by them are not solely of one nature they require more in the way of joined up thinking as an approach, the toolkit for these things is much more now than it has previously been. We will be very clear as well that this move closes off one of the biggest loopholes and problems internal to the Cross Straits system and now that that is done we will look to the first Cross Straits Summit and the discussions to take place there."

LAWSON LEADS THE WAY

By Felicity Stewart: Sports Correspondent

Sammy Lawson has won gold in the women's cycling road race at the Mundus Games, making it Achkaerin's first gold of the games. The victory will be probably more remembered for the manner of it than anything else, with help from her team mates she broke away on a climb sixty kilometres from the finish and stayed away to win gold by a ten minute margin (initial break pictured above). Speaking afterwards Sammy said "We knew we were the marked team, we knew we were the team people were going to be watching so we had to throw something new at it and we went for the long run for home. We were fairly confident it was possible if we could manage the gap successfully and I've got to pay credit to the girls I had riding with me today they pulled me up and down that climb and got me away from the pack before turning me loose."

In other Games news, away from the events a congratulatory card signed by the entire Achkaerinese team as well as a gift have reportedly been sent to King Heydar and Queen Chryssa following the birth of Prince Aali.

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NAVY STOPS TRAFFICKER SHIP - FREES THIRTY VICTIMS

By Olivia Moore: International News Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Navy has stopped a Zimalian flagged vessel in the sea of Kyne and freed thirty victims of trafficking. The incident was confimed by Minister of Defence Adam Sheppard in the Senate who was asked about reports of it during Defence questions the Minister answered: "The Achkaerinese navy as a matter of routine checks vessel registry, in this instance the vessel in question is registered in Toshikawa but was observed flying first a Toshikawan flag and then a Zimalian flag, we don't yet know where the ship was heading but the Senate will be informed when we have that information. As the ship was flying more than one flag it was appropriately treated as having no nationality and was accordingly boarded in the course of this thirty trafficking victims have been freed. We don't know what connection if any there is to other events on this but investigations remain ongoing."

PRINCESS LYDIA...FINALLY

By Niamh Roberts: Royal Family Correspondent

Lydia Daniels, wife of Prince Simon, mother to Princess's Aeolia and Lamia, daughter in law to the Emperor has finally, after six years of marriage, been bestowed the titles of Princess of Achkaerin and Countess of Gowu, the latter to mirror her husband's title as Count of Gowu. The investature ceremony was held as is tradition in the Chamber of Nobles and administered by the Emperor. The ceremony would have been expected to have occured shortly after the new Princess married her husband Prince Simon six years ago however Princess Lydia requested not to have the ceremony at that time and subsequent rescheduling of the ceremony led to further postponements due to international events.

BRITTAINE BRILLIANCE LEADS MEDAL CHARGE - DAY FOUR

By Nick Watson: Sports Correspondent

Becky Brittaine lead the way for Achkaerin on day four of the Mundus Games, the swimmer secured gold in the womens 800m freestyle on a day which saw compatriot Emily Aguirre take silver in the womens 1500m freestyle. Speaking after her win Becky said "I always enjoy the Mundus Games, it's great that we have an international event of this standing to give us the chance to show what we can do. And whether you win a medal or set a personal best or even come dead last it's cheered by the crowd, there's no sporting arena like it. We've had a good swim session so far so we'll see if we can keep that up and see if we can keep in touch on the medal table before the athletics and cycling programs really kick in."

Away from the pool there was a gold medal for Nick Eames in the men's marathon, a silver for Jaycee Rowe in the womens 58kg weightlifting, a bronze for Sally North in the rhythmic gymnastics clubs, silvers for siblings Mark and Sabrina Morse in the individual BMX events and a bronze for Scarlet Meadows in the womens 50m pistol. In the team events the womens footballers advanced with a 3-0 win over Vaguzia, the women's hockey team defeated the Griss team to progress and there was also success for the tennis and badminton players, while the womens cricketers were made to work hard for their victory over Vaguzia.

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RICHMOND RETIRES

By: Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

Andrew Richmond, head of the Commonwealth Treaty Organisation's Civil Service has resigned from the role. Mr Richmond who started as the Secretariat's liaison to the General Assembly, a position he was appointed to by Crown Princess Serenity when she was Secretary General of the organisation and then later as the Head of the CTO's civil service announced his decision at his fortnightly press conference in the Palace of Nations saying: "It has been an honour to have worked here as part of this organisation however this is no longer where I belong, the CTO was conceived to serve the people of Mundus it no longer can claim that mandate, it has not had the right to that mandate in a long time. I will miss working with the members of staff here, they are dedicated people failed by people in places far beyond the walls of this building. It is in my judgement time for me to step away from this role and hope that something of what this organisation should have been can be salvaged."

It is understood that Mr Richmond is to take the position of Achkaerin's Ambassador to Cassiopeia, a position he will take up at the beginning of December following the process for his replacement at the CTO.

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HIGH PRIESTESS SPEAKS ON RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

High Priestess Alexis Minette of the Cult of Namis

By Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

"Alarmed" is the word used by the High Priestess of the Cult of Namis, Alexis Minette, to describe her feelings in light of what many view as the single greatest attack on religious freedom - the passing of the Religious Restriction Law in Kopsje. Speaking during her weekly radio program the High Priestess was asked what her view on the situation was to which she said: "What we see in Kopsje is alarming, it's never a good day when people seek to limit the freedoms of others whether that be slavery, servitude or to say what you can and can't believe in. Let's be clear what this law in Kopsje is, it is nothing short of an attack against religion as a whole. This is not simply a case of not being able to display religious symbolism in public spaces, as is the case in Nya Aland, this is far more malicious than that. This law seeks to make it impossible for followers who are twelve years old and younger to actively participate in worship or religious centred activities, whether that be scriptural study groups, prayer groups, choirs and so on. In fact if you're a Christian in that target group this law would prevent you from receiving Communion. And yet when people ask 'why?' we are told 'because religion is oppressive' that is a falsehood. Religion is not oppressive, religion is something people choose to believe in whether it be Namis, Helus, Islyna, Ra, Aten, Mani, Allah, God, Yahwee, Zeus, Materna, Odin or one of the many others I haven't mentioned, they choose to believe, they're not forced, there isn't a law on the statute book that mandates people follow a certain faith, yes there are people who also choose not to believe and that is a respectable point of view and to say 'religion is oppressive' is not something I like or agree with but it's a legitimate opinion, however people who hold that opinion need to think very carefully about what we're seeing in Kopsje, because just as much as people can give an opinion that religion is oppressive they can also say that this law in Kopsje is oppressive it has a clearly designed intent to limit religious interaction, it seeks to prevent people from worshiping in the normal way that has never been and will never be acceptable and I will not see anyone discriminated against simply because they hold a different view to someone else. As such I am bestowing Convent status to the the Namis Temple in Yrket and I am instituting the Acolyte Order to stand alongside the already existing Maiden Sister Order."

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ACHKAERIN REMEMBERS THE FALLEN

By: Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

Once again Achkaerin has come together as a nation to mark Memorial Day, the day when the fallen of the Great War and all conflicts are remembered. The traditional horseback journey of the Book of Remembrance from the Temple of the Brave to the Royal Theatre in the afternoon, the two minutes silence at eleven o'clock in the morning and the wearing of poppies were observed, the day as always culminated in the ceremony of remembrance at the Royal Theatre. This year the ceremony marked not only seventy five years since the end of the Great War but also five years since the conflicts in Seaforth and Marseilles. It was no surprise to see representatives from nations involved in those conflicts in attendance. In Tytor Achkaerin's ambassador William Churchill along with his family attended a memorial on the first anniversary of the terrorist attacks in that nation, military personnel serving overseas held their own acts of remembrance and embassies overseas and official buildings at home flew their flags at half mast.

CLOSE CALL AT VALTHEIM INTERNATIONAL

By James Robson: Home Affairs Correspondent

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed a near miss at Valtheim International Airport took place today, the incident involved a recreational aircraft drifting into the airport's airspace, an area restricted following recent incidents involving the environmental group known as the Climate Crusaders. The MOD has released a statement saying:

Following the incidents across Mundus in which this group has been involved and also given events in Kaedwen the decision was taken to restrict airspace around Achkaerinse airports. Today at 15:16pm VMT a recreational aircraft strayed into this airspace and came very close to colliding with an incoming passenger aircraft from Seaforth, the pilot of the aircraft has since been questioned by police and we are confident that this is a simple case of loss of bearings and that there was no ill intent. We would at this time remind everyone that the airspace around Achkaerinese airports is restricted and that any unidentifiable aircraft straying into that airspace will be challenged.

It is not thought that any further action will be taken against the pilot.

SENATE VOTES THROUGH CSTO MEMBERSHIP

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Senate has voted through ratification of the CSTO charter, making the nation a member of the CSTO. It's not a surprising move and was believed to have been forecasted by the creation of the CSC according to some political analysts. This marks a return to the arena of international organisations for Achkaerin following the decision to leave the CTO. This makes Achkaerin only one of two nations currently across both the CSTO and the CSU with the other being Rokkenjima. And with the first summit of the Cross Straits Community imminent this is perhaps only the first step towards something, though quite what that is is yet to be seen.

EMPEROR AND CROWN PRINCESS CONSIDERING OPTIONS

By Niamh Roberts: Royal News Correspondent

The Emperor and Crown Princess are reportedly considering surgical options in respect of their long term injuries (the Emperor's right arm and the Crown Princess's left leg). The Emperor who was spotted at a cafe with his wife today (pictured above) is believed to have taken an interest in the procedure's application following the news that King David of East Moreland is to undergo surgery designed to give him back some muscle mass following an injury to the lower back some years ago. When asked about the possibility of surgery Royal Press Secretary Hannah Cartwright said: "The Emperor and Crown Princess are both considering whether or not this surgery is something they want to try. It is likely off of what we've been informed about that the Crown Princess may have a more straightforward time of it if she elects to go under the knife as the procedure was initially conceived with leg injuries in mind. The Emperor's injury is to the arm but is in principle similar. No decision has yet been made but there will be an announcement if this is to happen."

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EMPEROR'S LIFE DAY MESSAGE

By Roisin Shaughnessy: Chief Correspondent

Achkaerin has once again celebrated Life Day[1], a day when the nation celebrates the coming of its Trinity of Goddesses. In his traditional Life Day Message, broadcast in the middle of the afternoon although recorded on Life Day Eve the Emperor said the following:

"Good afternoon and a happy Life Day to you all.

This time of year is a time of celebration for many of us regardless of faith for the Namists it is Life Day, for the Christians it is Christmas, for the Odinists it is Yule. It is the twilight days of one year and the approaching dawn of the next, this year depending on ones point of view the same can be said of the decade. This is a moment to spend time with friends and family and to look back as well as forwards.

This has been a year that began in much the same way that the last ended, once again the brave men and women of the Achkaerinese military were called into action to fight the scourge of terrorism in Clysperis, a decision that perhaps shocked some given how much the viewpoints of Clysperis appear to diverge from our own but there are some things that transcend disagreements things found in the moral centre of our being - the knowledge of what is right and wrong, the understanding to do not that which we want but that which we must and then the capability to root ourselves so firmly that we can reach out beyond all the storms swirling around and say in a time of crisis 'will you take my hand?' I pay tribute to the courage and service of our military personnel and their role in bringing that conflict to an end. More recently than that we have faced a crisis the likes of which we haven't for many years, the Yellowtongue virus something that doesn't care about geography or politics tore through our world and while it is likely that we will never know the true cost inflicted on us as a global community by this virus we have endured it, a testament to the resilience of all.

On a personal note it has been humbling to see the support of the Achkaerinese people for myself and my family after I explained my diagnosis of relapsing remitting Multiple Sclerosis, it's not every day that the leader of a nation tells their people that they have a serious and incurable medical condition, it would have been easy to expect the negatives but you didn't show that, you chose to understand it, to learn about it and then with all the knowledge you chose to take it in stride and support me and my family and for that I will never be able to express enough gratitude. And it is this positive drive, this optimism, this hope that I implore us all to hold tightly to as we journey together into the future, we may not know the challenges that are to come our way but let's not meet them thinking the worst, let's not consider the half measures, let us hope that even when it looks like all evidence is to the contrary that by working together with our friends and neighbours that cool heads, diplomacy, common sense and justice prevail. The path is not easy but nothing worth doing is ever easy, but as long as we don't give up hope we will see that which we wish to see, whether it be in our own lives or that of the world. I wish you a happy Life Day and may the Trinity bless you."

1.	OOC Note - Life Day occurs on 25th December

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STARDUST CUP MAKES COMEBACK

By Felicity Stewart: Sports Correspondent

The Stardust Cup is to make a comeback ninety years since the last time the competition was held. But in a few weeks for the first time since then the corners and straights of Artaxia's forest circuit will echo to the sound of horsepower as cars of all shapes, sizes and powers race around the circuit for twenty four hours. The event's resurrection began at the local level and a petition submitted online garnered support, including in high profile places, and with donations flooding in things have taken shape over the last few weeks and today the Achkaerin Motoring Association announced the race was returning to the calendar. The race, an open event, has already captured the imagination with several teams entering and there are all manner of ideas being entered with the only restriction being the safety test.

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GOVERNMENT TABLES NEW BUSINESS SECURITY LEGISLATION

Minister of Trade Viola Summers introducing the legislation

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Government has introduced new legislation in the Senate today, the proposed legislation an amendment to the Trading Regulations (Freestone Mark) Act (2018) will see an extra layer added to the trading licenses of businesses operating on Achkaerinese soil. Under the existing legislation all businesses operating on Achkaerinese soil must meet from the day of their incorporation the criteria for a bronze grade Freestone Mark and then twelve months later a silver grade Freestone Mark and then in accordance with the provisions of how the Mark operates a Gold Mark obtained by October 2021, the existing Act does make provision for companies incorporated more recently than the passage of the Act in that they are afforded three years from date of incorporation to acquire all the Mark grades. The existing legislation also makes clear that a businesses license to trade on Achkaerinese soil is dependent on having the Freestone Mark. The amendment tabled today adds that a businesses licence to trade on Achkaerinese soil is also dependent on not aiding and abetting in any form slavery. The proposal is expected to pass through the Senate when a vote is called and depending on how long the debate takes could be law by the end of the week. When asked, during the debate, what prompted the Government to bring forward the legislation, Minister of Trade Viola Summers (pictured above) said: "There is a disturbing trend that has emerged in recent times in some nations on Mundus who have begun to trade on the principles of that which they have signed, this amendment ensures that on Achkaerinese soil businesses not only comply with the letter of the law but the spirit and principle of it as well."

AADC DEVELOPING NEW HARPY

By Penny Noble: Defence Correspondent

AADC have released their first concept for a replacement of the Raven (the Raven was decommissioned in 2016), the proposed successor (concept image above) is called the Harpy, a name that carries weight within the history of both AADC and the Achkaerin Air Force. The Harpy was one of the most iconic fighter aircraft of the Great War years and many model replicas sit outside Achkaerinese airbases. The Airforce has not disclosed the specifications it asked for or the role it hopes this new Harpy to fill, though many analysts believe that this is not a conventional fighter aircraft rather that this is likely to be classified as a specialist aircraft by the Air Force should it enter service. In related news the Achkaerinese Airforce has announced that the Kestrel is to be retired from service later in the year after over half a century in use, it is believed that AADC will be working on a replacement aircraft.

EMPEROR AND CROWN PRINCESS OPT FOR SURGERY

By Niamh Roberts: Royal News Correspondent

Emperor Peter and Crown Princess Serenity have decided to undergo the new surgical procedure being trialed in East Moreland. The procedure which has already seen the King of East Moreland go under the knife will hopefully give the Emperor and Crown Princess back at least some of what they've lost in the way of their limb injuries. The announcement of the decision was made by Royal Press Secretary Hannah Cartwright who said: "As we've said in prior releases the Emperor and Crown Princess were considering this. With the Life Day celebrations now over and having a few weeks before the transition to the new Celestial year they've decided to take the opportunity to go under the knife themselves, due to the Crown Princess's current workload in her capacity as a Lieutenant in the navy the Emperor will most likely undergo surgery first with the Crown Princess at a later date. Due to the surgical procedure still being very much a new thing this will of course occur in East Moreland, as will initial days of recovery after the operation."

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CROWN PRINCESS TO HOLD THE FORT

By: Niamh Roberts Royal Family Correspondent

The Marble Palace has confirmed that for the next few weeks Crown Princess Serenity is to 'hold the fort'. The announcement comes as the Emperor travels to East Moreland for surgery related to the injury he suffered in a terrorist attack some years ago now. In making the announcement Royal Press Secretary Hannah Cartwright said: "Given the need for the Emperor to both have the surgery and then have time to recover afterwards the majority of the Emperor's duties and responsibilities will be undertaken by the Crown Princess. This isn't the first time we've seen this arrangement happen and is fairly routine under the circumstances." The Emperor's last act before departure was to sign into law the amended Trading Regulations (Freestone Mark) Act (2018). The Marble Palace has also refused to comment on rumours that the Emperor is considering meeting the King of East Moreland during the time that he is in East Moreland. The Crown Princess spent the morning meeting with students at the Freshwater College of Performing Arts and the afternoon in a series of meetings believed to concern upcoming things to be aware of including the finalizing of the Awhaele transition and the hosting of ceremonial functions. It is believed that once the Emperor returns from recovery that the Crown Princess will undergo the same surgery as her father but related to her leg.

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GOVERNMENT STATEMENT ON PARBHANI INCIDENT

By David Woods: Political Correspondent

The Achkaerinese Government has given a statement in the Senate in light of the Parbhani temple bombing. Speaking to the Senate, Deputy Minister of Defence Sally-Anne Seaborn (pictured above) said "Mr Speaker regardless of signatory status of the Uppsalla Convention I think one of the things nations across Mundus can agree on is that when it comes to war is that all possible care must be taken to avoid civilian casualties. Today we meet to debate a continuing conflict occurring in a fellow Northern Ocean nation and sadly we do so following the deaths of eighteen people who were attending a temple. We offer our condolences to the families of those that lost their lives. Mundus has witnessed many times terrorist attacks that have killed civilians of injured civilians whether it be the Freestone missile attack, the bombing of a hotel in Dartfordia, the gunning down of a Prince in our very streets or the eleven eleven attacks in Tytor. It is rare but sadly not unheard of for militaries, factions within militaries or even Governments to act like this, last year we marked five years since the Andean Genocide and in a few weeks we will mark the fifth anniversary of the Cult of Helus Genocide. What happened with this temple bombing is completely and utterly unacceptable, we will be taking steps to deter such incidents and we hope there will be no repetition we suggest that the Topri leadership ensures that there won't be. We also suggest that steps towards ending this conflict are taken."

In other Senate news Minister for Economic Affairs Matthew Patterson was quizzed on the appearance of Machal Mining International on the Elysium Stock Exchange. Speaking to the Senate's trade committee the Senator commented saying: "At this point we're attempting to determine how a Tamoran company with links to slavery was allowed to do this, we will be asking questions and will be consider all avenues, diplomatic and legal to get the information required to allow Achkaerinese bodies to make the appropriate decisions in accordance with domestic law."