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Messages - KrisNord

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91
Conference Hall / Re: Proposal for a Constitutional Amendment
« on: April 30, 2022, 07:43:19 PM »
I believe there are people who have interpreted the constitution that there was a violation while others don't. We're not reaching a compromise. We're now in a position where we need to just figure out the best solution moving forward. Maybe once this is sorted we perhaps do need to look at what we do when a group of people think a mistake in interpreting the constitution has taken place. Now though ain't the time. Sort one problem at a time. Currently the problem is what do we do about the Order of the Pen.

92
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Royal Highland Games (Open to anyone)
« on: April 17, 2022, 07:14:33 PM »
The breakfast room of the Estate House probably wasn't the place that had been expected to ever find itself hosting a gathering on this scale. It wasn't a palace or council chamber but was just a large family place to eat directly next to the kitchens of the house where you could hear the clanging of pans every now and again. Finley had hoped that the monarchs of the neighbours arrived and he wasn't disappointed. It was the first time he'd meet a lot of them and this made him hopeful for where things would go. What Finley hadn't anticipated was the arrival of the Achkaerin delegation, especially the two children and the dog. He didn't let it phase him however and after doing his best to greet the children and finding them some sweet pastries he considered giving the dog some attention however he understood the dogs purpose and knew it best not too and so despite his urge he left it alone. Finley's surprises kept on coming when the delegation from Dál Riata arrived minus the Queen of Eigg, he asked the Grand Marshall if he should expect her arrival. The surprises didn't stop coming when Niklaus Corrino walked in with Debdale following close behind. Finley suspected the Bene Gesserit arrival might ruffle a few feathers but he didn't care, he considered Niklaus a close friend and Debdale had been a good former employee. He gave Niklaus a bear hug and then shook Melissa's hand while giving her a kiss on the cheek. "Welcome back" Finley greeted them while doing his best to see the expressions of those gathered. He was just about to pop into the kitchen when Evanthe, Emerson and Josiah arrived. He wasn't anywhere as near pleased to see them as he had been the Bene Gesserit. He had a long history with the Anselmo's and had it not been with the young Rhodes boy being present he may have found it hard not to say anything. As it was Finley gathered everyone round the table. A series of cast iron pans were brought out by the kitchen staff, sausages, bacon, baked beans, haggis, neeps and tatties, white pudding and a vast array of other stuff. Without word Finley picked up a plate, whacked a load of haggis and tatties on the plate and slid it to Josiah, "Any lad with the last name Rhodes no doubt can manage a big boy plate" he smiled at the young boy and he proceeded to hand everyone else a plate to help themselves before finishing his own and taking a seat. "I'm excited you've all come." He began, "And while this might not be relevant to some of you around this table I'm hoping that this marks the start of the Celts continiously getting together. Today though is more about the beginning of forming our little community and even if Seaforth aren't here at least par of them are." He smiled again at Josiah. "So eat breakfast, get a good lining for the day and if anyone wants to know the rules of tossing a caber feel free to ask." He began tucking into his own plate full of food.



Lennox had caught wind of the Eigg meeting and suspected that his brother would want to know about the meeting Queen Aoife was hosting. He didn't know much about the Queen except that she seemed to have problems with the arrangement her Kingdom found itself in. He entered her tent and seeing a few people who had been fishing with him earlier he waved cheerily and offered the cooks some of the fish he had on a line. "Queen Aoife, my brother isn't aware I'm here I was just passing and thought it best to stop by and say hello." He wasn't exactly dressed for diplomacy in his now mud spattered kilt and damp woollen sweater. "May I ask why you're not at the breakfast with my brother?"


93
Sporting Hub / Re: Rugby World Cup 2022 - OOC Sign Ups
« on: April 10, 2022, 08:51:35 PM »
Add Ui Cenneslaig to both please.

If your short of teams then go for Cantabria. If you're massively short of teams include NA.

94
Diplomacy and Events / Re: A New Gothi to a Queen
« on: April 10, 2022, 04:45:23 PM »
Olivia was used to travel and had been a frequent visitor to Alba Karinya given her years of work in Zimalia. It was though her visit to East Moreland despite having worked alongside so many Morelanders with the Joint Emergency Team. She had flown in on a scheduled EMAC-Wings flight and stayed in Northfort with an old medical voulenteer friend she'd meet during the Uppsala Crisis. It had been nice to catch up and now as she got out of the small aircraft that had taken her to Silverhills she was beginning to get nervous. Naturally she wasn't expecting a Queen to come and meet her at the airport and she appreciated Alexandra coming to pick her up.

95
Diplomacy and Events / A New Gothi to a Queen
« on: April 01, 2022, 09:50:59 AM »
To Her Majesty Queen Stasya of East Moreland

As you may be aware I recently acquired the title of Gothi. This is in part due to my desire to effect change upon my homeland of Nya Åland. As a lady in her mid 20's that has had a chance to explore Mundus I feel that my generation are being held back by the policies of the current Head Gothi and I intend to try and change that. At the end of this year we have elections for that position and it is my intent to rock the political boat by standing for such a position. While I do not believe I will win I think the youth vote will swing massively in my favour and as a result hopefully force reform. To try and effect this change I hope that I can meet with and discuss with you, a fellow Albionite, some of the concerns I have. You, like me, are a woman who has expereined a wide range of different cultures and nations and we share a more liberal view of the world.

I am therefore requesting permission to visit you in East Moreland, a nation that Nya Åland holds dear as friends, to try and send a message about the future of my homeland. It is my hope gaining at least some visible support for my candidacy from foreign nations would help. I understand however that this may not be possible.

May Odin Bless You

Dr. Olivia Robertsson.

96
Diplomacy and Events / The Royal Highland Games (Open to anyone)
« on: April 01, 2022, 09:43:30 AM »

In accordance with the Treaty of Celtic Friendship the annual Highland Games will be taking place in Ui Cenneslaig. This major event in the Highland sporting calendar is not just a place for our athletes to compete in what for them is the pinnacle of their sport but also a place for the clans that have spread across Mundus to gather and reaffirm their commitment to each other. It is with these hopes that I invite the world to come and enjoy the games regardless of their cultural heritage.

We look forward to seeing you.

King Finley of Ui Cenneslaig



The Canoon Estate was one of the various properties within the Royal family of Ui Cenneslaig. Over the last two weeks it had been converted from open pasture land into a series of mini arenas each flanked with temproary grand-stands, a huge hospitality tent and several large marques over which flew various clan flags. It was expected that tens of thousands of people would attend each day. Naturally those visiting from abroad such as Kings and Queens from afar would be housed in the estate house where King Finley was especially hopeful that the nations of Eigg, Dal Raitha, Ruasliabh and Arcaibh would attend, it was the first chance to push for them to perhaps consider a wider friendship with their Celtic cousins but as always Finley would just be happy if his Ballycroy team won the Gaelic Football.

Lennox had returned from Lodja to attend and was already getting into the spirit of things by joining some men from various clans to fish in the lake to catch breakfast, it may have been 8am but already a few hip flasks of whiskey had appeared.

Queen Cait of Cantabria was out checking on teams from her adopted homeland. Despite being a Cenneg to the core she had least had to court the idea that she cared more for Cantabria.

Prince Keane was excited, having turned 16 just a few weeks ago he was able to compete in this years and while he was merely a squad player for the Ballycroy Gaelic Football team and unlikely to see any game time it was a thrill to think he would be surrounded by some of the best players in the world.

Keane's younger sister Isobel cared little for the sports, for her it was all about the dancing. She'd found herself a spot lying in front of the stage that would host the dancing event and was enthralled by the practice runs various groups where having.

The weather looked like it would be a beautiful crisp spring day as the hum of the first floatplane to land on the Loch could be heard bringing in guests from the capital, Claith. Lennox cursed the sound as no doubt the aquatic landing would disturb the fish and at present they had a very meagre breakfast in the nets.

97
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: March 30, 2022, 09:18:58 PM »




PROJECT ICARUS LEGACY SENDS NEWS IMAGE

The joint project between East Moreland and the space programme run by as was the Union of Nordic Peoples has released a new image before going off line for roughly a year. Project Icarus was the first of several joint missions to map solar winds and various other pieces of solar activity, these were taken over by the Joint Nordic Space Programme when the U.N.P. collapsed. The project has been sending back images from a distance of around  75 million kilometres for the past four years however the latest one is the closest yet. The project will go offline in terms of sending images for roughly 12 months before beginning to take images of the top and bottom of the sun. During its mission it is likely that the probe will experience temperatures upwards of 500 degrees celsius. Once its mission is over it will aim directly at the sun and as have various other Icarus probes sent before burn up.

The JNSP have said they are currently in talks with the Royal Aeronautical Society of East Moreland to explore future project unrelated to Icarus. A spokesman for the JNSP said, "There are many adventures we want to pursue in space and the old relationship with East Moreland was a very productive one. We hope in the coming months to re-energise this relationship and explore much more of the Universe."

98
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: March 29, 2022, 09:07:44 PM »




ROBERTSSON QUALIFIES AS A GOTHI

26 year old Doctor and Thane, Olive Robertsson, has today confirmed that she yesterday passed the entrance exam to make her a Gothi. Speaking of her success she explained, "While I have always wanted to develop a better understanding of my Odinist faith I must be honest and explain that I have no intention of entering into the Priesthood. At the end of this year we shall have elections for Head Gothi and I can now add my name to that ballot. Many young people are disillousioned with the way the current Head Gothi has taken very few steps to make us once more a nation on the world stage as we were in times of old. We are intent on sitting in our corner of East Albion minding our own business. The reconstruction of Uppsala is finished and we've seen grander projects in places like Tartu and Setri and now we must show the world just how ingenious us Nords are. We need younger and more global outlooks." If successful Robertsson would become the youngest Head Gothi in the nations history and the first female.

Current Head Gothi Stein Ulfsson however is critical of the newest addition to the ranks of the Gothi's. "I admire anyone who works hard enough to gain the knowledge to pass the exam. What I don't admire is when someone seeks to corrupt the title Gothi for aims other than tending to the faithful. Dr. Robertsson should renounce her claim to be a Gothi and focus on her medical career."

In an initial poll it would appear that Robertsson would get around 35% of the vote in a head to head with Ulfsson however the vast majority of voters under the age of 30 interviewed stated support for Robertsson.

99
International News Networks / Re: Gairm Nan Gaidheal
« on: March 29, 2022, 08:51:19 PM »




KING TO FOCUS ON "McARDIA"

With the conflict in Lodja dragging on and the CNN currently having a member excluded on a technicalities King Finley has spoken about a potential shift in foreign policy. "For the last few years we've cast eyes wide across Mundus and have been blessed with friends far and wide through the CNN. East Moreland and Lodja will remain our closest allies and I pray that soon the Maori will be back in good shape. In the mean time though the Celtic world has awoken and we must be part of that. I am keen to ensure that these clanship bonds that exist across the world are built upon. We have nations with monarchs that I need to meet with and see where we can go. We had a go at forming a Celtic Cultural group a while back but it didn't really have any success. My hope is now that we can have a 2nd chance at this."

The King also spoke of seeing if there was ways of supporting the rural schools of Eigg. "A lot of us still cling to traditional ways of farming, fishing and enjoying the land. Eigg is a beautiful part of the world and children growing up with that fresh air and open space is something to treasure. I hope that myself and Queen Aoife can hopefully find a way of supporting children to get a good education no matter where they find themselves living."

The King has not yet indicated when he will try and meet with his fellow monarchs.

100
Press Offices / Re: CNN Press Office
« on: March 03, 2022, 07:39:30 PM »

With our colleagues in the Unified Iwi having failed to complete their annual accounts they are required to present a fully set of audited accounts and meet their share of funding to associated bodies with the CNN. We are sure this is simply an administrative error and we look forward to this being completed and the CNN family returning to full strength.

The CNN Administrative Division

101
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: February 20, 2022, 11:58:14 AM »




THANE OLIVIA ROBERTSSON SETS UP LOR PARTY

Dr.Olivia Robertsson, the Thane of Jokkmokk, has today launched a new political party. The 26 year old medic has set up the Liberal Odinic Rite along with a group of fifteen other medics from Nya Åland who serve in the Joint Emergency Team. Last year Dr.Robertsson was appointed Thane of Jokkmokk, a traditional holding just outside Sprigwald where she was born. To become a Thane the government selected the recipients from a short list off put together by the local community attached to the holding. Now though with a ground swell of support Dr.Robertsson is attempting to change Nya Åland's political landscape. Speaking at the launch she explained the background to the party. "Since the Uppsala disaster we have always had some of us, those who were born outside the old borders of Nya Åland, that never truly felt at home among the system here. Nya Åland always was more traditional and inward looking but as those of us who were youths during the reunification have got older we've begun to feel that the way the nation runs doesn't really reflect what we want. Time is changing but the political parties of Nya Åland don't."

The party agenda is aimed at "ensuring the nation retains its special place in the world as a heartland for Odin, honours Norse traditions but excludes nobody." Launching the new manifesto Dr.Robertsson outlined six key objectives.

* The creation of a society that reflects the proud history of Nordic people and Norse traditions.
* The protection of sacred sites of all faiths.
* A return to the policy of Armed Neutrality
* The economic development of the former UNP territories.
* The creation of a political system secular in nature that reflects Norse traditions.
* The realisation that while a nation can be built on Odinist values these values are not exclusive to those following the faith.

The new party has already gained 18,000 members in the 24 hours since it was launched. It is sure to concern the established Nya Åland political establishment as just two months ago the more liberal minded People's Right Party overturned a 9,500 vote majority of the Odinic Rite in the Southern Uppsala seat for the Council. It reflects a growing trend among younger Nords towards a more liberal outlook, something that some political commentators are calling "UNPifying" as it seems to reflect more the older days of the Union of Nordic People.s

102
Sporting Hub / Re: Winter Games 2022 - OOC Sign Ups
« on: February 13, 2022, 05:56:39 PM »
Ui Cenneslaig votes for Keepton.


Nation Name: Ui Cenneslaig
Three letter nation abbrev: RUC
Specialist Disciplines:
Ice Hockey
Biathlon
Nordic Combined



Nation Name:Nya Åland
Three letter nation abbrev: NYA
Specialist Disciplines:
Ice Hockey
Ski Jump
Cross Country Skiing


103
International News Networks / Re: Gairm Nan Gaidheal
« on: December 28, 2021, 07:57:38 PM »




NAVY LEAVE ROYAL SELUCID BUT STAY IN REGION

Following completion of the conditions of the Celtic Protectorate in Royal Selecuid being meet the Cenneg Forces there are to leave the nation with just 500 soldiers being left in an observer role. The withdrawal comes well ahead of schedule with the expected ending of the Protectorate coming in 2026. Speaking as the CNV Lugid left Royal Seleucid with members of the Royal Blackwater Regiment onboard Colonel McFaul said. "When we began this mission it was likely that the Helus minority would face great challenges. Credit to King Heydar the nation have put in measures to ensure that religious minorities are respected and protected. Our forces are no longer needed and so can return home. We're proud of the steps we've taken to bring about an end to the conflict that was happening at the time." In total some 250,000 members of the Cenneg military have served in Royal Seleucid over the last four years.

While the Navy is leaving Royal Seleucid it will not immediately be heading home. Following actions by Rokkenjima and their allies to increase shipping and scrutiny of shipping of the Commonwealth of the Iwi the Lugid and its escort vessels will dock in the Commonwealth. While there they will train with the Iwi Forces before monitoring that the Rokkenjimans are fairly applying the FSC towards Maori shipping and having no negative impact on the commerce of the region.  The nations Ministry of Defence spokesman said, "We do not expect any issues in the Kyne unless Rokkenjima get over zealous. The Maori have for several years now conformed with the FSC after the various members of the CNN spoke at our last conference of how we do not approve of breaches of the FSC. We look forward with interest to the proposals King David is working on that he suspects will reassure the Maori in the long term that historic war crimes, not covered by the Uppsala Convention, can and will be punished. This issue is a two pronged problem with only half of it, perhaps the easier part, being examined."





"SPECTRUM FIVE" PROJECT BEING GIVEN "FEASABILITY" STUDY

A joint Cenneg and East Moreland project being called "Spectrum Five" is currently being studied for its possible future use. Over the last few years the Cenneg Space Agency has made a reputation for itself through radio telescope networks across Mundus. Currently it operates with partners in East Moreland, The Commonwealth of the Iwi, Lodja, Bakkermaya, Lijiang and S.I.C.R among others. This network has allowed the programme to gain unique insights into the Universe however large amounts of radio emissions on Mundus coupled with a  layer of ions and electrons at the top of our atmosphere, a region called the ionosphere, certain wavelengths are not measurable. A proposal to counter-act that is to build a radio telescope on the dark side of the moon.

The propsal may sound mad-cap when we consider the design of such devices on Mundus however as Professor John McGarry who is overseeing the project explains that may be easily overcome. "Many of the devices on Mundus utilise natural bowl shaped depressions in the land to provide a support structure and help funnel signals. The moon has several of these on the far side and it need not be a solid bowl." The proposal is to team up with East Moreland's Royal Aeronautical Society and SmartWar who have significant experience of space robotics. Professor McGarry explained "The idea is to end up with an antenna over 1 kilometer wide in a crater 3 kilometers wide. Many such sites exist. While normally these would be reflective panels, very heavy and cumbersome, it is possible to make it from a structure that would be made of thin wire mesh in the center of the crater. We would utilise two landers one would deliver the mesh, and a separate lander would deposit automated robots to build the dish over several days or weeks. One of the biggest challenges would also be to create a system to give better communication with the project, possibly by utilising a network of satellites."

According to McGarry the project is not likely to be launched anytime soon as several key technical details have to be worked out. It is however hoped that a "dry run" could take place on Mundus sooner rather than later. Professor McGarry is keen for the project to become a reality and help us understand more about the formation of the Universe. "While there were no stars at the birth of the Universe, there was ample hydrogen during the universe’s Dark Ages and this hydrogen would eventually serve as the raw material for the first stars. With a sufficiently large radio telescope off Mundus, we could track the processes that would lead to the formation of the first stars, maybe even find clues to the nature of dark matter." While the project so far contains scientists from East Moreland and Ui Cenneslaig there is an intention to include other nations too.

104
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: December 04, 2021, 06:22:22 PM »




SHOCK PRP ELECTION VICTORY

Following the resignation of Roger Heldstam as the Odinic Council member for Southern Uppsala it was expected that Nord First Party would retain their seat however a surprise increase of around 8,500 votes saw the People's Right Party take control of the position. Lily Bergstrom was elected as the areas new representative running on a ticket of campaigning for more rights for minorities, a rejoining of the MCUR and referendums on all international institution memberships. In the last election, which came just after the joining of former UNP territory into Nya Åland, the Odinic Rite took the seat with 10,003 votes, meanwhile the People's Right Party had 1,483. It was therefore expected that the Odinic Rite would take the seat again in this election however that has not been the case as the People's Right Party gained  10,837 votes compared to the Odinic Rite getting 3,821. The vast shift was explained by the reopening of Universities in the city which have attracted a large number of younger citizens who are considered to be more liberal and internationalist in their outlook. Additionally many of the former citizens of the Union of Nordic People have returned home and the PRP had always traditionally done well in the elections before unification.

After the result was announced the new Councilwoman Bergstrom spoke with the media to say she was looking forward to taking her seat. "We still have the Odinic Rite with a huge majority in the Council. We are still the smallest party within the Council but as more elections are due over the next 12 months we are hoping to make inroads into that majority and be a vocal opposition." Bergstrom courted controversy during her campaign by finding a loophole that permitted the long banned Avengers series of films to be shown. The film series was banned as it portrays the God Thor as more of an "alien" than a God and also see's a character deny his divinity. The film was banned because it's "message runs contrary to the truth of our faith". Having consulted with a lawyer and then tested in court it was revealed that by editing out that line and several others the film would not meet that threshehold. Bergstrom hosted a "Avengers Movie Marathon" which saw large scale protests while still attracting several thousand people.

105
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: November 21, 2021, 02:16:39 PM »




JNSP SET "SPECIAL PROTECTION" AGENDA

The Joint Nordic Space Programme (JNSP) have today announced that they have formed a new policy that may influence future space operations. The agency have announced following reviews of several decades worth of data from various missions that potentially space exploration itself could damage future discoveries. Speaking to the media ahead of preparations to launch the Nergal Trekker in the new year. "Following reviews of several of our own missions to other planets or their moons we have come to the realisation that the discovery of some form of life out in the solar system is possible. That though is very likely to be nothing more than bacteria or small single celled organisms. The scale of this life may not be spectacular but they will be vital to protect. As such we are now committing to take action to protect this kind of life by taking extra precautions when exploring several regions which will be called Special Protection Zones."

The Nergal Trekker will be the first mission to utilise these rules. An area will be classified as a Special Protection Zone if it has a water activity level of between 0.6 and 1.0. It must also have a temperature of at least -25 celsius. The JNSP classification will also apply if it is likely the region has experienced these conditions at any point in the last 500 years. While these rules will now only apply to the JNSP missions it is hoped other space exploration programmes will also utilise these measures. A spokesperson explained "We have the Outer Space Standards and these have been an excellent foundation for space exploration. They though are now being faced by changes in technology and knowledge which will mean that the Standards must change eventually too. We will be using these criteria as a judge and anytime we think of operating there the probe or lander will have extra precautions to ensure no contamination takes place, this will see certain materials not used, strict use of -100,000 clean rooms, gas sterilisation and various other safeguards."

At present no zones on any planet or moon that fulfil the criteria have been discovered but as more exploration begins to take place it is thought that eventually some will be.

106
Sporting Hub / Re: MFA World Cups 2021 OOC
« on: October 30, 2021, 03:41:28 PM »
Add Nya Aland and Ui Cenneslaig, if your short of a team please only then use Cantabria

107
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: October 22, 2021, 12:49:56 PM »




COUNCIL VOTE FOR SYMBOLIC UPPSALA GESTURE

Following over a month of waiting for action over the return of disgraced Marseille military officer,  General Cartier, the Odinic Council today voted on a symbolic protest over the action. The Council voted to withdraw recognition of the Uppsala Convention, a document authored by Willa Sunbrek, Birgid Strand (nations current Foreign Minister) and King David of East Moreland. The gesture was made with the statement that, "Withdrawal is neccessary because the Convention, a cornerstone of international diplomacy, has been utilised in a manner never intended. The Treaty was designed to prevent criminals getting away with the most horrendous of crimes. We now see it actively protecting such a person. Article 1.2 states. "National Governments must ensure that all military personnel comply with this document at all times.". Marseille have been denied the oppurtunity to ensure an example is set for their own, and other nations soldiers across Mundus. Cartier is most likely guilty of the crime of murder in Marseille and as they are not refusing to prosecute him he should face trial. At present we are seeing the ghost of the CTO "Big Nations" imposing their authority on a nation who is more than capable of handling this situation themselves."

Following the statement being read by Allsherjargoði Catherine Nyström a second vote was taken an hour later where the Council voted 82-11 to rejoin the Uppsala Convention. This time it was left to Minister of Defence Martja Larsson to make a statement saying. "As a veteran of our nations armed forces I am only too aware of the importance of this treaty, especially as its bares the name of one of our cities, the fact we have felt a need to take this action should show the anger we and Marseille have in the current process. Cartier should be standing on trial for murder of citizens of Marseille and soldiers of Nya Åland. The Uppsala Convention was designed to bring those who had committed war crimes to justice when there was no other course of action. It will now be six years since the killing there ended and nearly as long since Marseille repaired itself. Those who have died need justice."

At almost the same exact time as this action was taken in Nya Åland similar actions were taken in Marseille where their own government voted to leave before also resigning the treaty.

108
Character Guides / Re: The Ålanders
« on: September 19, 2021, 10:16:34 PM »
Noak Heikke
RolesCaptain in the Huscarls
Year of Birth1987, Eiruna
Positions Held2005-2014 Officer in the Airborne Rangers
2014-present Officer in the Huscarls
EducationHistory (C) Norse (C) Literature (C)
FamilySingle
Links to Important events?Organised the Real Marseille resistance during the Materna Conflict
BiographyBorn in the town of Eiruna which was home to a large naval base Noak's family had noticed at a young age that he had an interest in the military. They had expected him to join the Marines however during basic infantry training he got a chance to do a single parachute jump and he loved it. Instead of the Marines he went into the Airborne Rangers, a unit dedicated to fighting in small units behind enemy lines for extended periods of seizing strategic objectives. He excelled in this role and reached the rank of Captain before undertaking an application for the elite Huscarls. He passed training with ease and as a consequence joined the unit as a Liutenant. Not long after being commissioned conflict broke out in Marseille and as a former Airborne Ranger he was asked to take one of several small squads into the region around the capital. He made contact with Jean-Pierre Cantona, and helped form a strong well equipped militia force which was highly influential in taking control of the capital and then the nation. Following the conflict Noak was intrumental in forming a relationship between the Huscarl's and Red Legion which see's them share a military training area in the south of Nya Åland. He has also maintained close friendships in Marseille. 

RL-Kirill Zaytsev

109
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: September 19, 2021, 10:04:17 PM »


]

HUSCARL OFFICER CALLS "TIME FOR JUSTICE"

Captain Noak Heikke who lead operations by Ålander special forces units known as Huscarl's has today spoken publically of the units growing demands for Marseille's former military officer General Cartier to finally stand trial. During the conflict in Marseille several units of Huscarl's infiltrated Marseille and working with local militia forces managed to help liberate large areas of the capital. Following the conflict it was one of these local militia leaders, Jean-Pierre Cantona, who became the newly created Republic of Marseilles first President. The bond between Nya Åland and Marseille has remained strong with regular visits between the two nations militaries. Today after returning from one such visit Captain Heikke spoke out about the situation.

"In 2016 we were promised that Cartier's crimes would be investigated and justice would be done. Stupidly our nation left that in the hands of the CTO never expecting that a war criminal responsible the execution of POW's would outlive the organisation that ended his actions. Cartier has sat in Achkaerin custody for years and now myself, and those of both Åland and Marseille who served in that conflict demand that he is handed over for trial. His crimes took place in Marseille and as such a now stable Marseille should have any of their citizens who committed crimes handed back to face justice."

Heikke won the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions in Marseille and then the Silver Spear for service during the Uppsala Crisis. He is considered one of the nations most decorated military voices and has also spoke about the conflict saying. "The case against Cartier is open and shut. Many Ålanders wore cameras when we were on operations, we made frequent use of close air support via aircraft and drone. One of the victims of the execution of POW's was Jonas Ekdahl, a pilot whose aircraft was shot down over Marseille during our attempts to prevent mass executions at a prison in the capital. His execution was witnessed by UAV's. This case smacks of a hold up by the CTO and former CTO members who not only tried to keep us out of the conflict despite us being struck by missiles, but then threatened up with violence and then made separate settlement deals without including key members of Real Marseille, our own forces and other militia groups. The CTO, now in its decay, owes Marseille and Åland a debt and Cartier must pay for it."

It is not yet known whether Marseille or Nya Åland will make a formal request for extradition however a meeting is due to take place between the President of Marseille and the Head Gothi in the coming days.

110
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: September 19, 2021, 12:49:35 PM »


]

I.C.A.V HEADED FOR NERGAL

Following a successful launch the JNSP has today confirmed that the two small cube satellites are on track heading for Nergal. The satellites are part of a programme that will undertake a variety of tests aimed at, among other things, improving communications through the solar system as well as improving data accuracy on a variety of connected projects. It is hoped that if the initial pair show promise that a further 25 will be launched in short order. Speaking to the media today a spokesman of the JNSP said, "These types of satellites have a great potential for deep space exploration and so we are keeping our fingers crossed. We plan to launch a version of them in the next six months that can be used to inspect the exterior of spacecraft easily and even potentially be recovered and reused."

It is understood a JNSP crew will be venturing to the East Moreland "inflatable space station" for a two week series of experiments in the coming weeks. This crew will become part of the communications tests with the ICAV launch.


]

BIOCHAR PROJECT GOES LIVE

In an attempt to help reduce carbon emissions farmers across the country are being asked to take part in an experiment utilising Biochar. The project is being backed by the Ministry for the Environment and the University of Saurri. The idea is to take agricultural waste such as parts of crops left behind after harvesting or failed crops. Normally on many occasions these are simply burnt releasing a significant amount of carbon in the process. Under the new programme a farmer can call for a Biochar kiln to be brought to their site where the waste can be put into a kiln where temperatures reach  400–500 °C. The process produces a form of carbon rich charcoal which can be turned into pellets which can be ploughed into the fields as a form of fertiliser but also locking away carbon for hundreds, possibly thousands of years. In addition to the charcoal the process can also be used to produce a bio-oil which can be used as a fuel as well as a gas, known as syngas,  which can also be used for a variety of purposes. On a typical processing run a burn will produce  60% bio-oil, 20% biochar, and 20% syngas however changes in temperature can be effected which will change this make upto favour more biochar.

The process has however been criticised as some as to burn the waste energy is required, however Professor Ullich from the University of Saurri explained, "The process see's us gain more energy than we use. Our mobile plants can use the syngas output and yield 3–9 times the amount of energy required to run. While we still will be releasing CO2 the amount is cut by at least 50% as the biochar is returned into the earth and the oil and gas mean we require less fossil fuels which produce much more CO2. In addition we are now utilising something that would normally have been wasted CO2, by that we mean carbon dioxide that is just released, we now get multiple uses out of this CO2. The Biochar helps create a   habitat for beneficial soil micro organisms and we hope that it will produce higher yields in farms allowing us to also tackle food production issues. We also hope to prove we will have a process that will reduce soil emissions of greenhouse gases, reduce nutrient leaching, reduce soil acidity, and reduce irrigation and fertilizer requirements, all things that will help the planet."

So far six of the mobile kilns have been given the go ahead with the Environment Ministry hoping to see a much larger fleet in the near future.

111
International News Networks / Re: Free Mundus
« on: September 11, 2021, 09:20:29 PM »


ENVIRONMENTAL CALL CAN BE "HOLLOW"

Yesterday the Rokkenjiman government issued a press statement which was critical of "some nations who refuse to recognize the legitimacy of the science as well as those who do nothing to curb emissions or make only token gestures." and that these would be labelled as " threats to the national security of Rokkenjima" While this is a noble call from a nation which is a signatory of the Treaty of Wellow it is also a call that rings slightly hollow.

Rokkenjima is a nation which utilises for its diplomatic transport a specialised supersonic airliner. There are several nations who have also taken a keen interest in supersonic passenger transport in the last few years including New Derusima, Tytor and as of late Nya Åland have also experimented with technology that would permit supersonic passengers planes to operate over land. At the best of times diplomatic aircraft are poor for the environment. While a traditional tourist passenger plane will transport upwards of 300 people in a modern aircraft a diplomatic flight will often feature less than 100. This already increases significantly the flights carbon footprint however when we take into consideration that a supersonic airliner would consume 5 to 7 times as much fuel per passenger as subsonic aircraft on the same routes if full we can imagine the exact amount burnt per person to be much higher. It is reported that the old "Imperial Concorde" would burn 22 tons of fuel an hour, twice that of a passenger filled aircraft using traditional engines.[1] With several nations, Achkaerin and East Moreland among them, having recently experimented with electrical powered propulsion for aircraft this is a route that would be better served rather than development of gas guzzling supersonic vanity projects. Even then these electrical powered aircraft, if brought to scale, would still require careful monitoring of how electricity is produced to refill their batteries. Currently there are approximately 25,000 commercial aircraft in the world[2] and estimates are that if just 500 of those were to be supersonic airliners then they would produce the same amount of CO2 as 10%-17% of the current fleet, a substantial increase to global emissions while also reducing the amount of capacity for routes. With the Treaty of Wellow stating that nations should "Reduce pollution caused by air travel by 35% by 2030." the introduction of supersonic aircraft, and their continued use is unlikely to see nations reaching these targets.

While it can be argued that Rokkenjima utilises ships for some diplomatic missions the Austrana and its newely commissioned replacement as the "Primary Yacht"  the  Azukishima are not without environmental issues. The Austrana currently weighs in the region of 10,000 tons and similar designs are capable of carrying around 700 people, a combination of luxury passengers and crew required to meet their needs. Vast quantities of fuel are required to move the immense mass of a ship of this types, with commensurately huge emissions of CO2 as well as nitrogen and sulfur oxides. It is estimated that a typical 3,000 capacity cruise ship burns around 0.40kg of fuel per passenger per km[3]. With much of the Imperial Yachts manifest being kept secret it is likely that they have many less people onboard considering the design, and furthermore the ship weights much less it is hard to be certain of the exact fuel burn for the Imperial Yacht, however it is likely to produce a significant amount of CO2 during its criss crossing of Mundus. In addition to the fuel concerns ships criss crossing Mundus can also damage the biological nature of regions. For example ships routinely need to utilise water for ballast. This often see's water brought onboard in waters of one part of Mundus and off loaded in others, while more modern techniques allow filtration and various other minimisation protocols there are still routinely cases found of biological organisms being transported to non native waters, this has in the past also seen diseases such as cholera taken across Mundus.  There is also the risk of pollution within the sea from water from the bilges of the ship which often contain oil, urine, detergents, solvents, chemicals, pitch, particles, and other materials which can damage the oceans. It is often impossible to store waste waters onboard as it is estimated that an average cruise ship produces up to forty liters of sewage and 340 liters of water from sinks, showers, and drains, per person, per day[4]. It is therefore impossible to store such quantities onboard and often these are removed into the ocean and even with onboard sewage treatment systems, likely to be state of the art on the Imperial Yacht, this can still lead to pollution. Even when docked the ship and those like it can damage the environment. Paint used to prevent the growth of barnacles often contains plastic and metals. This paint often flakes off during voyages and can linger in the waters causing significant pollution in the local ecosystem. While advances of technology have begun to minimise this the problem is still significant around port areas.

Rokkenjima are at the forefront of many space endeavours and as of late are in what could be argued as a "Shuttle Off" with their Cross Straits partner Daitō and this too has significant environmental impact.  Each space shuttle spewed thousands of pounds of metals and other chemicals into the air, many of which will eventually find their way to the ground causing damage to flora and fauna. With space tourism being expected to quiet literally take off in the next decade or so the amount of pollution caused by these launches is likely to multiple significantly. With the average space shuttle launch releasing 443 metric tonnes of CO2 this is a significant impact on the environment. With the burning of fuel and the falling metals there have been noticeable impacts on animal life. Take the example of Ui Cenneslaig whose launch sight for their space programme is located on the edge of a coastal region inhabited by seals and rivers close to the site are home to beavers. Studies on these animals have shown they have higher than average amounts of iron in their livers[5] and also have shown significantly elevated thyroid hormones, which can disrupt growth. It is therefore likely that the recent "Shuttle Off" may have had significant impacts on local wildlife in addition to the environment.

With these measures having been discussed it is therefore the case that many nations that have signed the Treaty of Wellow have yet to fully embrace their responsibilities. It can also be said that those individuals who have signed it are also among those contributing the most to the issue the Rokkenjiman government have highlighted. Diplomacy is a huge cause of pollution. As diplomats criss cross Mundus, King David for example having undertaken eight overseas state visits this calendar year so far, they leave behind them a significant amount of pollutants. We live in a day and age where video conferencing is getting more reliable, more secure and more utilised in business, this should therefore be used more for such measures. So what should be done. First the idea of supersonic airline travel should be placed on the back burner, it often has minimal time impact for diplomats who have access to large luxury aircraft with palace like facilities and no waiting times at airports. Ironside One for example has facilities that have allowed the King to manage international incidents while still in mid-air meaning that there is minimal time loss. More must be done to support measures of electric powered aircraft, these however for the time being are likely to be less luxurious and slower meaning diplomats must resign themselves to a loss of luxury. This would send a clear message that the environment is truly what matters and that it is the role of us all to tackle climate change not just select individuals or nations.

Article by Dr. Henrik Rathmalsson from Krokom University
 1. https://www.transportenvironment.org/sites/te/files/2018_05_TE_Supresonic_briefing_0.pdf
 2. https://www.oliverwyman.com/our-expertise/insights/2017/jun/paris-air-show/global-commercial-aircraft-fleet-to-grow-to-more-than-35000.html
 3. https://www.jstor.org/stable/41510783?mag=the-high-environmental-costs-of-cruise-ships&seq=5#metadata_info_tab_contents
 4. https://daily.jstor.org/the-high-environmental-costs-of-cruise-ships/
 5. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/space-shuttle-blast-offs-spewed-metals-chemicals-into-wildlife-refuge/ - substituted gators for other wildlife

112
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Bagpipes and Dragons
« on: August 24, 2021, 07:12:23 PM »
Finley now understood how this network of ports that the Dragon-Emperor had in mind and the deal he had offered seem fair. "Well I'd be happy to accept what you offer. There is though other forms of transport I'd like to discuss with you. Some time ago we formed the Southern Line across Ardia. It gives non stop rail oppurtunities from Cliath in the West to Quintelia in the East. I'd be interested in perhaps us working together to tap Lijaing and then possibly Jiayuan and then the Iwi into the plan. Is this something that would be of use to you?"

113
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: August 24, 2021, 06:16:39 PM »


]

I.C.A.V LAUNCH EXPECTED THIS FRIDAY

The  Interplanatery Cube-sat Analysis Vehicle mission is due to launch this Friday. The mission is designed to complete a series of hierachal objectives designed to test the various potential uses of miniture satellites for space exploration. The launch will see a pair of satellites, each weighing around 1.5kg into a path that will see them escape Mundus' orbit and head towards Nergal. The primary focus is the ability to communicate with satellites such as these over large distances. The satellites will also collect data on solar winds similar to that obtained by the 2014 mission of Longboat One and later Longboat Two. This will allow the teams at mission control to compare the data produced by the satellites in terms of their accuracy. The satellites will also be expected to be able to act as communication relays passing information back to Krokom where the mission will be controlled by the JNSP. It is hoped that should this test mission be successful that Cube-Sat's could be used for a variety of missions such as providing multiple roles in support of deep-space human missions, e.g., external inspection of flight systems, "third viewpoint" observation of operations, advance reconnoitering of exploration sites, and continuous monitoring observations after humans depart a site.

Should the programme work it is expected ICAV will be adapted to a mother-ship style probe which will deposit a network of Cube-Sats across the solar system as a foundation for more ambitious projects down the line.

114
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Bagpipes and Dragons
« on: August 11, 2021, 11:16:32 AM »
Finley suspected with the track record of East Moreland they'd be fine talking about a whole CNN trade deal, Lodja was a mess so who knew what they wanted and the chances were the Iwi would side with the majority. He was confident though with his answer. "I'm sure the other members would be receptive I can't speak too much on what he terms would be but we can certainly arrange something in the future. We've yet to complete an arrangement with a single nation though." He explained.

"Now as for ports there are a number that are what are called Royal Ports, they are commercial ports where the territory is owned by the crown. For those I can agree that the fees for us will be waived for 12 months, however you'll still obviously have to pay for the services and items used. The second type of ports are owned by commercial companies and we have no say over how they do business. I can though speak with them and try and get them to follow what we plan on doing. I would though like to see a similar arrangement from your new "Vertebra Ports" if possible."

115
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Birth of the Monarchy -Open RP
« on: August 11, 2021, 10:46:28 AM »
The Cenneg Navy was now beginning to flood the area with its navy now. The Copre and its escort had entered the Lodjain part of the Central Alucard Island Chain from the north while the Lugid had entered from a wide arc down the southern end. The problem was the sheer number of small islands, often volcanic that meant radar could be a bit of an issue at times. As such they were relying on air assets as much as anything. News of the Ekra-Badger sinking was also a problem. Every now and again they'd come across groups of water-nomads, something the Cenneg navy was used to however this time the usual friendly greetings had gone with the Cenneg keen to keep distance between the two groups to avoid any repeats.


116
International News Networks / Re: Nya Åland News
« on: August 04, 2021, 03:18:40 PM »


]

"THE DOLK" CLEARED FOR FIRST FLIGHT

The Joint Nordic Space Programme have today confirmed that following successful wind tunnel trials the prototype of an ultra-quiet supersonic aircraft built by EMAC. The design was put together by scientists at JNSP however utilising ideas from EMAC's "Ghost Dragon" programme it was determined the East Moreland based company would be seen as the best construction partner. The aircraft has undergone several scale model tests including a half size remote control model having been flown for around 400 hours. Now the full size prototype has completed wind tunnel checks and will be examined by the Åland Aviation Authority over the next few days to be given an airworthiness certificate. Once that has been issued the Dolk could be flying as early as next Friday.

The aircraft was initially designed to fly at Mach 4 however at present the JNSP have confirmed the first tests will not allow the aircraft above Mach 1.6. The Dolk was developed as a way of trying to reduce the impact supersonic passenger flight may have on people living near ground routes following a surge of nations planning on reintroducing supersonic passenger routes. Currently no Supersonic passenger aircraft is licenced to operate from Ålander airports. If successful the aircraft would produce a 75 Perceived Level decibel (PLdB) thump on ground, as loud as closing a car door, compared with 105-110 PLdB (comparable to music at a pneumatic drill) for existing supersonic aircraft.

The JNSP have also confirmed that the first five flights will be remotely piloted. 

117
International News Networks / Re: Gairm Nan Gaidheal
« on: August 04, 2021, 02:51:46 PM »




"CENNEG NOVA" DISCOVERED BY MSOP

Since its establishment four years ago the Mundus Skies Obervatory Programme run by the Cenneg Space Agency has been utilised to learn more about the galaxy. It has been involved in a number of discoveries by utilising a variety of different optic and radio telescopes across Mundus including in Ui Cenneslaig, Heyra, East Moreland, Lodja and The Commonwealth of the Iwi among others. Since its formation the programme has observed some 26,000 stars and in its most recent batch has discovered one that has been described as "strangely composed." The star officially known as "SMSS J200322.54-114203.3" is made up of elements in proportions theorised to have been caused by a type of explosion not yet observed. Professor Jillian McKree of the CSA theorised what is called a " magneto-rotational hypernova." in the 1970's following initial data gathered from various sources however a deficiet in technology meant it has taken nearly forty years for one to be found in existence. The discovery by MSOP has lead to the discovery being nicknamed a "Cenneg Nova" or a "McKree Nova". Sadly Professor McKree died in 2018 however her daughter Helena, who works as a lecturer in physics at one of the MSOP visitors centres, said "If Mum was still alive she'd be excited to see the star and would have been thrilled to have been proven correct."

The Cenneg Nova is thought to form when a star gains more than usual nitrogen, mainly due to its spin causing hydrogen and carbon, which is usually separated in most stars, together. It creates a star at least 25 times as massive as the Sun, highly magnetized and spinning staggeringly fast before exploding with a force less than one in a thousand supernova can match. A black hole was probably left behind, but billions of years later its location is impossible to guess.



EASTERN MOOR ON FIRE

Fire Services have spent the last 24 hours fighting a series of three separate fires on the Eastern Moors. The fires are believed to have been caused after a prolonged period of unprecedented heat and a lack of rain. At the moment though Police have not ruled out arson. The local fire services have been trying to get water from the nearby lochs onto the fires and have been supported by members of the Armed Forces. The town of Invergary was being evacuated as the fire got to within 4km of the town. A significant number of residents however have refused to be evacuated and have been taking steps to create firebreaks between the town and the fires.

One local resident says that if things come to the worse he will use his little fishing boat to escape onto the Loch. "We're backed on one side by the moors and forests, then the other way we have the Loch. Most of us here have boats and as a result we have an escape route. We can help protect the town and we'll still be safe."

King Finley has ordered the Fire Service to requisition any military assets its thinks it may need in order to bring the situation under control.

118
International Organisations / Re: Conradh na Náisiún
« on: August 01, 2021, 10:14:32 PM »
OOC- I know Aosta we've spoke on discord. Could we please revisit this once the Lodja situation is over. Sorry for the delay.

119
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Bagpipes and Dragons
« on: August 01, 2021, 09:46:44 PM »
Finley had no issue with the first part of the Dragon-Emperors proposal. "I'm sure the idea of finding a pool of science teachers wishing to come and do their stuff in Lijiang will not be hard to find. I therefore will get our Ministry of Education on the case as soon as we finish things here. Your second point however I could not accept. You see our arrangement with the CNN means we do not give out tariff free trade to other nations who are not members. We however can look at an arrangement where we put you in category of a valued partner, this means that we would agree to ensure that your nation pays the lowest rate of tariffs possible, in effect they'd be minimal between us and we would welcome the partnerships it could bring. I am sorry that I can not go as far as you would like."

120
Diplomacy and Events / Re: Bagpipes and Dragons
« on: July 01, 2021, 10:54:08 PM »
Finley had been enjoying his beer while Tielin spoke. "I think my people will be excited by the prospect of our two nations talking. I think that between us we have a lot of potential to help each other out." The drinks were enjoyed with small talk until it was time to move on to Alloway's old manor house. It was a squat grey building and the two groups were shown into the lounge which overlooked a lush green lawn.
"I'd like to begin by putting on the table an offer. You spoke about your nation being somewhat left behind, and you also mentioned education. We're a nation with a huge interest in space exploration and I'd like perhaps you to help us out, and in turn we can help you. Our nations space programme has a system of radio telescopes spread across Mundus, they require some wide open space and I understand that is what you in Lijiang have. If you are agreeable I'd like to purchase some land and construct two of these. We'd run them but would allow 50 days a year on each for scientists from Lijiang to determine where they are utilised. In addition we'd allow your people access to the data collected. Would this be of interest. I'm sure we can look at other educational packages."

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