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The Great Swale Path, Chapter 2

Approaching Sertia by ferry from Nofoaga is not necessarily a straightforward route. Between the two islands lie three active underwater volcanoes which must be avoided because they were in the process of forming their own island.

Luckily, however, this route means that the ferries must hug the Sertian coast for about two hours. This offered a lovely view of the Sertian island, which for many of us on the ferry was our first time seeing Sertia from this close.

I was able to finally see why I was going to walk the Great Swale Path, not the "Great Mountain Path", or even more preferably the "Great Path with Lots of Cheap and Delicious Restaurants".

To the North of the Sertian island lies a large, ancient marsh known as Tremaras. At one time, about 250,000 years ago, it is thought that Tremaras covered what made up most of the Sertian Empire. Now, due to dredging and building, Tremaras stretches from the capital of Hemberdale to the city of Plariaras, where it is briefly interrupted, then continues around the stretch of coast nearest the West Olves.

Tremaras is vast, and scant of anything naturally taller than a cattail. The villages within the marsh are elevated by stone or wood planks spare the areas where the boats are launched. Houses are built level with these long, surprisingly wide footpaths, in a circular fashion, many of them having roofs of terracotta or the like. Between the villages of Tremaras that we passed, there was nothing to be seen but wilderness and the sound of the sea.

Then, suddenly dominating our view from behind the planks of the village, were the old stone ruins of a Sertian castle. Candalyyth, I heard people murmur. It was a lonely, ominous figure. Hardly anything was left of its foundations except for a tall, thin watchtower partially submerged in the marsh. The highest window of the watchtower reflected no light from inside. A slight drip, drip, drip could be heard echoing from its depths.

Even after the castle faded from view, all of us on the ferry were left with an obligation to reflect on the times that have been lost to us. It's always a strange feeling, when you see something that you can't touch, but was once so significant. Unspoilt by our sight, Candalyyth sits in its glory, the master and the lady of the castle lying, perhaps, comfortably inside.

The marsh eventually receded and the outskirts of Plariaras began on the other side of a hill. Sertian homes are miniscule. Realising that they didn't have enough money to build regularly-sized homes for all of the residents of Plariaras, the Braetha decided that in order to give everyone the best quality homes, they would limit the size of publicly-funded houses to one room for every family. Thus, whilst the houses were of the quality you might see in a wealthier part of Europe, they were far too small for me to imagine anyone living inside of them. Some people had built conservatories or extra rooms on the side, but that appeared to be a privilege.

More and more buildings came into view as we approached the port of Plariaras. Yellow, green, and red painted stone buildings, and an absolute cacophony of noise greeted us.

RESULTS OF THE APRIL 2025 ELECTION REFERENDUM

Question Presented: Do the Braetha schedule a general election on 14 August 2025?

% votes

YES: 43%
NO: 57%

Result: The Braetha do not have public permission to call an election on 14 August 2025.

The next election referendum is now scheduled for 14 August 2025.

ERE BACH'AIR DUN

ASPERN AND THE WEST OLVES DECLARE INDEPENDENCE FROM SERTIA

Good evening. We have an urgent report for the people of Gadalland and Aspern.

About 20 minutes ago, it was communicated to the Order of the Braetha, in an official statement, that the Informal Kingdom of Aspern has declared independence from Sertia to start a new Republic.

The West Olves has joined the Aspernian separatism.

This announcement comes after the escalation of tensions as the former Head Braetha Guthrun Wond was banished from the Triumvirate of Holy Cities of Hemberdale, Osperfey, and Plariaras. Additionally, the holy city of Aspern, Osperfey, has resisted much of the drastic industrialisation which the rest of Sertia has experienced.

Osperfey has experienced a large number of protesting, some of which has turned violent, as well as civil disobedience.

The letter was addressed from the city of Osperfey, written by Mr. Guthrun Wond. The letter has not been released to the press, but we are aware from Mr. Wond's address that the Kingdom of Aspern has the following demands:

• that the people of Aspern are recognised as a legitimate, sovereign republic by the government of Sertia, the relevant bodies of the European Union, and the governments of each individual EU nation,

• that the Order of the Braetha is no longer the official government of the Republic of Aspern,

• that the Order of the Braetha permit the Kingdom of Aspern to form its own, sovereign republic under Mr. Guthrun Wond.

• that to maintain the peace between the Republic of Aspern and Sertia, provisional borders are drawn and the freedom of movement be protected.

The Order of the Braetha has not released any official statements, but have convened an emergency session in the War Rooms, which is open to the public.

Is it safe to go to the Aspernian territory?

It is unclear how border crossings will take place in the future, or whether there will be a border at all. However, due to increased civil and violent unrest in the areas around Osperfey we advise against any unnecessary travel.

Does Aspern have the right to independence?

The rules about this are encoded in the Sertian Domex 1224, which has been removed from its archives this evening and taken to the War Rooms for discussion by the Braetha. The last time this happened was 314 years ago during the Rebellion of the Sailors.

Officially, the Domex does not say anything directly about regions declaring independence. However, the sovereignty of each of the six islands, accordingly, "is to be recognised and respected through the land".

Will there be a war for independence?

This is incredibly uncertain, especially as the Braetha have not gone public with any official statements. Experts say that, if the Braetha decides that the claim to independence is not legitimate, or will cause undue harm to the people within the new territory, they will likely attempt to take it back. But whether that taking-back will be by force we have yet to foresee.

What about getting from Aspern to Sertia?

All trains and ferries between Sertia and the Aspernian territory have suspended operations for fears of escalating violence.

Where will the summit be taking place? Part 1 of 3

Heard about the upcoming arrival of Mr. Aguilar to Sertia? Whether you're a fan of politics, or are endlessly in love with the Spanish leader, we've made a guide to help you follow the two leaders on their three day adventure through Sertia.

Day 1:

• Drive to Hemberdale Railway station
• Meet with Ms. Dina while on the train to Slalium
• Meet Head Braetha Fornithias Cranst, inaugurate the new spaceport in Slalium
• Get the train to Araguas House in Esterey, home of Head Braetha Fornithias Cranst
• Join Mr. Cranst for a Seeing In the Masts Ceremony and traditional dinner in the evening in Esterey

Your first question might well be: when the devil did we get a railway?
Good question! Technically, about 150 years ago, when Sertia Horserail began operations. But actual trains? Not yet. In fact, our very own European Councillor and Mr. Aguilar will jointly inaugurate the rail system with its first ever train before it is to be open to the public.
Hemberdale will service all routes which were formerly Sertia Horserail, including, Esterey, Osperfey, and Uggold. It will also service Blenawen and Slalium.
Here is an earlier picture of Hemberdale horserail station:

Hemberdale General Horserail station, 1866

Here is Hemberdale Railway station, after significant renovation:

Railway? Sorted. What's next for these two leaders?
Well, they will be on the train for most of the day. Their first destination is the beautiful new Spanish spaceport, by the lovely seaside village of Slalium.

Slalium from the sea, 30 January 2023

After the inauguration, Mr. Aguilar will get back on the train to the bustling town of Esterey. While Esterey is a bit inland from the sea, it boasts the largest railway station in Gadalland and Aspern, and is where you can find Araguas House, or better known as the home of our very own Head of Braetha, Fornithias Cranst.

Esterey railway station, 1 January 2023

Araguas House, 2 December 2023

At the end of today, the two leaders will head to Esterey Harbour, where a private Seeing in the Masts will be held. Seeing in the Masts is a traditional practice of many Sertian villages and it is a celebration of sailors coming home.

Stay tuned for part 2!

Sertia prepares for tourism growth this summer

and, no doubt, tourism politics.
26 April 2024

The government and businesses are getting ready to accommodate high volumes of tourists this Summer season.

With the Summer tourist season due to officially start on 1 May, the government have expanded train, Sertia HorseRail and coach service timetables, as well as scheduling more ferries between Sertia and Nofoaga for ease of accessibility. Business owners are also finishing up winter renovations on their properties and are preparing to open in just four days.

The West Olves are also readying to welcome visitors by air, land, and sea. The provisional government of the West Olves have ordered expanded ferry timetables from Plariaras, Sertia to Icaserch, WO.

Tourism is the second largest industry in Sertia, next to textiles (the 3rd) and fishing (the 1st). To many, this Summer will determine how well they are able to get through Winter.

Arts and culture

Summer is a time for celebrations of fine art and culture in Sertia. Most notably is the Baelo Arts Festival held in the Erdais district of Osperfey, which attracts world-renowned writers, artists, and cultural icons. This year, a record number of people are due to attend, making Erdais the place to be in the Caribbean this summer for lovers of fine art.

Erdais Politics

While tourists are a necessary part of Sertia's economy, there was quite a bit of uproar last year when the Erdais District Braetha ordered an additional tourist tax to be included in accommodation fees. This came after local residents complained of disorderly behaviour from tourists, a group of whom had been arrested and charged for criminal damage to private property.

Local festivals

Major Sertian destinations are not the only place for this, however. Around the country, local arts festivals will also be showcasing their homegrown talent to passers by and locals alike. The village of Tyr'n Bever, about 20 miles north of Rowsperch, is proud to present an exhibition by local artist Benjamin Tyr. It is an art installation which concerns the fleeting state of Sertia's natural, pastoral landscape, much of which is part of the ancient marshland known for generations as Tremaras. While the majority of people now live in Sertia's major cities, many of them hail originally from the towns and villages of Tremaras, of which Tyr'n Bever is one. Tyr's project is one that he says "comes from the heart".

"My family, the Tyrs, have lived around this area for over 400 years. Tyr'n Bever has shaped me", Tyr says. Indeed, around 1597 the Tyrs purchased the land where Tyr'n Bever is now.

When asked about what tourists should look for in Sertia this summer, Tyr says "come out to Tremaras and see how the Sertians really live. We are very welcoming and kind and not like the city-dwellers. Here you will have it easy, you can take it slow and enjoy yourself".

Sertian tourism season runs from 1 May to 31 August 2024.

Kingdom of Sertia? But there's no king!

24 August 2023

Tourism Sertia have been receiving an infinite amount of messages from our poor, confused readers about Sertia's new official title of 'Kingdom of Sertia'. They complain that it's confusing because "there is no king!"

Well, we want to address this because quite frankly, we get so many of the same messages that it's causing us much irritation we can't just get on with our day.

After the most recent Sertian schism, the Six Unions of Gadalland and Aspern which had held for over 800 years has officially dissolved. Thus, we can no longer call ourselves Gadalland and Aspern, because some of the historically Aspernian territories are interwoven with historically Gallish territories. So when Aspern separated, it took some of Gadalland with it.

Although they're now reunited, the Braetha cannot reasonably continue to call it the Six Unions of Gadalland and Aspern, as those six unions dissolve when one union dissolves.

'Sertia' is the name of the nations within Gadalland and Aspern who were formerly run by monarchs, hence the moniker 'Kingdom of Sertia'. But what about the old nations that weren't kingdoms?

Well, there weren't any of those. Before the Domex Campaigns by Verna II Osperfey in 1224, all of Sertia was run at one time by local clan leaders and princes who owned the land upon which they lived. During this time, the word 'Sertia' did not exist as a name. Instead, it demarcated the old hall where the individual kings convened each year, hence the name deriving from a corruption of Old Sertian meaning "sovereign".

When the kings convened, they would each issue a spoken statement about the state of affairs in their kingdom. The Old Sertian word for 'king' is 'ha', and the word for speech is 'Bryeh', or, in modern Sertian, "Braeh". In old Sertian, this convention within the "Serdria" became known as the "Bryeha", and is the first form of national government for Sertia, a direct ancestor of our very well-known Braetha.

So the Kingdom of "Sertia" really means the Kingdom of sovereign kings, a land which belongs to no single person but to many groups of people who have over the years lived in the lands owned by various princes and kings and other monarchs. Those kings no longer exist, but there is no other name for our nation other than the Kingdom of Sertia.

The Braetha have decided to call it the Kingdom of Sertia to recognise the significant impact of this schism on the identity of the Sertian people. But at least now there won't be any confusion as to why "Sertians" are from "Gadalland and Aspern". Sertians are from Sertia.

14:29

Ms Nacar's amendment was unsuccessful.

Braethan are now voicing their concerns about what a Sertian government would look like if political parties were to be legalised.

Mr Draynooth, the Braetha for Internal Finance and Development, has said that "the democratic process will be protected if we both allow political parties to exist and allow the people to decide when an election should be held", but not one or the other.

But, Mr Draynooth also asks, should there be a term limit for a sitting Braetha? How long should that be?

The Great Swale Path (extract 1)

this is a travel journal of an English-speaking man visiting modern-day Sertia, who walked the 300 mile Swale Path across the country.

Few would underestimate the cultural diversity of the European Union. Even fewer would underestimate our economic success or our championing of free trade and movement. The vast expanses of the EU make for a seemingly endless world of various opportunities. And, in various ways, these superlatives apply to every single nation on the European continent, if perhaps in different ways.

And only a few years ago, much to my surprise, my overwhelmingly (if not slightly biased) positive assessment of the European continent found its way to the Caribbean with the addition of the République de Nofoaga to the ranks of the EU. This was, in my opinion, and speaking for all EU travel writers, the best decision both the EU and Nofoaga ever made. The little island of Nofoaga is one to which I return very frequently, for in such small proximity endless beauty for all the senses awaits.

We've all certainly heard about the eruption of Mauga'afi in 2021, and the endless gloomy statistics around it: the deaths of hundreds and injuries of many, many more; and more than lives lost, millions of livelihoods and generational businesses crumbled before the eyes of their loving makers; monuments buried, possibly forever. It is events like these which are humbling to travel writers like myself, reminding me of the fragility of what is beautiful about our world, and the uniqueness of it in the span of what we have explored of the place beyond our Earth.

It is events such as these that many travel writers and media publicists attribute to underdeveloped nations. There is a pervasive narrative that nations who experience such large-scale disasters are doomed to forever be developing or poor. And if not actually developing or poor, then at least in the eyes of the people on the Continent who live a high-tech, high-speed and high-quality life.

However pervasive, this narrative is entirely baseless. In fact, Mauga'afi didn't dredge the Nofoagans deeper into their own mud. It brought out the true spirit of the Nofoagan people: neighbours housed neighbours, families helped families, chefs cooked for those who had no food, builders and humanitarian workers searched tirelessly for those who had gone missing. Buildings were rebuilt, and life went on.

Nofoaga had always been a country I loved to visit. But it was the events after Mauga'afi, and witnessing the kindness of the Nofoagan people, that really drew my attention to the Caribbean, a powerhouse in its own way.

It was in Nofoaga that I heard about the application of Sertia to join the EU for the first time. I was with my tour guide Rémy, who was equally as surprised as I was at this news. For many years the borders of Sertia had been completely shut to all citizens of the EU, the Sertians opting instead to manage their own empire of surrounding islands. The last ferry between Nofoaga and Sertia was in 1861, when the ferry redirected from Sertia to the West Olves.

I recovered a journal of a Nofoagan traveller to Sertia from April 1861, about a month before the last ferry departed for Nofoaga. They detailed their travels by rickety train across the country, the vast wind-swept marshy flats, castles in the distance and various wild birds captivating their imagination. Nofoaga certainly has its fair share of these things, but for such a close neighbour to describe their neighbouring country as so wholly different to their own amplified my Sertian intrigue to another level.

So for many years, myself and many Nofoagans would stare out the southern coast to the towering cliffs of the Sertian island, so close and yet so far away. Had I tried to swim there, I would have been eaten by a shark or eaten by the Sertians. For all we knew, there was nothing there!

When Gadalland and Aspern announced its first visa policy for EU citizens, I finished my online application and was approved within three days. I travelled via ferry into the city of Plariaras, a storied medieval city I recalled from reading News from Dróinstea, where Sarpara Manniach must travel to Plariaras whilst being pursued by her former lover and sworn enemy.

And me, naturally being a new-age Sarpara, also travelled to Plariaras where my Sertian adventure began.

Introduction

The War Rooms--Sertia's official chamber of government, Hemberdale

It was Sunday evening in Hemberdale. The day markets were closing, and the restaurants, auction houses and casinos were only getting started. Tourists went inside as the wind from the sea blew cold. Locals simply put their coats on, and continued working.

Life went on.

All the while, in the War Rooms, members of the Braetha had been seated for approximately 36 hours, discussing the possibilities of the referendum outcome, and what was to be the government's official stance.

They'd decided to allow a referendum for fear of being tone-deaf, a fear that had only recently taken hold. For a long time the Braetha couldn't give a crumb what many of their people thought.

But ever since the Aspernian rebels were threatening the very order of Sertia...

To say it had been a 36-hour "discussion" of politics is essentially to deny that you are in Sertia. There are no discussions about politics in Sertia.

There is only silence, or a shouting match. Why else would the official seat of government be called the War Rooms?

The full Braetha was in session.

Erdais to charge day tourists from 12 October

26 September 2023

The Erdais City braetha have voted to impose a tourist tax on day-trippers from outside the inner-Osperfey district.
The announcement comes as Erdais saw a record-breaking summer of tourism, with numbers reaching up to 55,000 people on 18 July of this year.

Erdais, a walled city within Osperfey, is very popular with tourists due to its narrow stone lanes, ancient religious sites, and the pristine and historic Erdais harbour, where locals and visitors are allowed to bathe and do water sports.

More recently, however, there has been an increase in misconduct including fly tipping, excessive smoking and drinking and unsightly or disruptive behaviour, which has caused locals to complain to the Erdais City braetha.

Howard Mannasith, an Erdais native who runs the Museum of Erdais, said just last week that a man shattered the door to the museum with a glass bottle. Mannasith called the police, who promptly pressed charges against him.

A spokesperson for the Erdais City Braetha said, "Many of the tourists who come [to Erdais] to be disruptive are those who come from the surrounding areas of Osperfey or beyond for the day. Our locals should not have to suffer unruly behaviour from people who do not have to complete the same day-to-day tasks as those who live in the city and pay their taxes".

The Great Swale Path, Chapter 3 (part one)

I will here preclude a detailed testimony of the Plariaran culture, owing to one of my (many) personal weaknesses--namely, a love for poetic ends.

Fancying myself a modern-day Sarpara Manniach, from News from Droinstea, upon leaving the ferry terminal at Plariaras, I quickly headed for the train station. There was a 14:56 departure for Rowsperch, with a stop in Droinstea. It was 14:01.

I was able to figure out how to call a rail-horse carriage--known as Sertia HorseRail--with some difficulty. To indicate that you'd like the horse to stop and pick you up, you are urged by the signs on the HorseRail platform to step on a button. A mechanical system goes, and a barrier rises up in the middle of the railway, forcing the horse to stop for you. Luckily, when my coach stopped in front of me, the conductor seemed to catch the barrier before the horse did, else the horse buck and turn everyone out of the carriage.

I directed the conductor to take me to Hemberdale Ghoia station, south of the river. The conductor got out of the carriage to push down the horse barrier, boarded again, and immediately we were off to a flying start.

What little I saw of Hemberdale was in no massive way enlightening, but the mazes of colourful (albeit terrifyingly narrow!) alleys graced on all sides by rudmercaeta and business people created a brilliant audio-visual cityscape. At one point, I looked out the carriage window to my left to see a Peregrine Falcon flying next to us, holding an envelope in its talons. Before it ascended again, I swear it saw me through the carriage window.

Arriving at Ghoia station, I was as promptly kicked out of the carriage as I was invited on outside the ferry terminal. Just as well, because I had approximately 10 minutes to catch my train to Droinstea.

In Sertian cities, only those with tickets can enter the train station. Such it was that this created a real barrier for me to actually get into the station, as there was a congregation of people looking at the analogue departure and arrival boards. I found my train to Droinstea, departing on platform 6. Having purchased my tickets at the ferry terminal, I weaved my way through the dense crowd and went through the barriers and into the train station.

Immediately, I was struck by how empty, modern, clean, and so much unlike the outside of the station, that the interior was. Well-kempt people ambled through the station, in presumably no rush to reach their train or wherever it was they were going. Kind voices gave soothing messages through the loudspeakers, followed by equally soothing dings and clicks. I could hear the ambient whirring of the train engines.

3 minutes.

Good lord, I needed to get to my train.

I must say that I was expecting either an elegant, wholly old-fashioned train service, OR a brisk, cosmopolitan, modern one. But I can't say that Sertian trains, or at least this one, fit either of those categories.

Whilst the outside of the train looked familiar, the inside felt like a really odd social experiment. The seats in Standard Class were laid out in cushioned benches, embroidered with something reminiscent of my gran's jumper.

The windows were all sorts of really odd shapes like an art-nouveau exhibition. It certainly gave off an effect, but what effect it was I couldn't quite square. Looking up, there were benches nailed to the ceiling of the carriage, mirroring the ground. There was a sign on the wall, pointing up, that said:

"In case this train rolls off a cliff, no matter how you are oriented you ought to have a seat".

signed, Legalist Anarchicals

What an interesting normative statement. Not knowing how to react, I just sort of sat down and accepted that Sertia is freaking weird (I later learned that this was an art instalment, courtesy of Tourism Sertia. Normal carriages are not like this).

The train was surprisingly smooth-moving, and after a few stops we arrived promptly in Droinstea.

PART I:Hour 36 of discussion

The War Rooms consist of eight adjoined chambers running horizontally. There is one room for each member of the Braetha themselves, then one communal meeting room: Room 4.

Room 4 was in complete tatters. Before the meeting began, attendants removed all the ancient valuable relics to prevent them from being destroyed. All the rooms were decorated with ancient artwork, except for Room 4.

Berra Nacar, the Braetha for infrastructure, was screaming at Head Braetha Fornithias Cranst:

"Why won't you listen to me? Eh? I've said about a million times now, NO!" Groans followed from the other members.

"We are not," Berra said, "and I REPEAT, we ARE NOT, letting ONE MORE person from Spain into this country, EVER AGAIN!"

"Berra, calm down!" barked Thomas Ilgras, the Braetha for mechanical industries. "In the past 36 [nearly 37!] hours, you have contributed nothing but a sniffly and upturned nose to this discussion."

"Oi!" said Cranst. "That's your fifth ad hominem attack this session, Thomas. I must expel you after the next one".

"Stop threatening me, Fornithias--"

"MASTER Cranst. Mr Ilgras, we are public representatives, certainly not friends. You will not address me by my first name if you do not want to be chucked out by your suspender braces", Fornithias said.

"Yes," Berra continued. "I can SNIFFLE, all I WANT! As I was saying, we must remove all Spanish forces from Sertia regardless of--"

"regardless of the results of the referendum?" Thomas interrupted, "regardless? Master Cranst, I must remark that at this point in the discussion, we have allowed Ms Nacar to barrage us with Aspernian Spanish-hating propoganda for 36 hours.

"Need I remind you all", Thomas looked around at the members of the Braetha pacing the margins of Room 4, "that Ms Nacar was Mr Guthrun Wond's pick to be European Councillor? That ought to speak louder than anything more I can say".

"Oh my goodness, really?" said the Braetha for Energy and Sustainability with a yawn. "That's groundbreaking, Thomas. Tell us again, for the 6,000th time, would you?"

"Thomas, need I remind YOU that I denounced Guthrun almost immediately after he'd said that. I just didn't know the EU rules about choosing a councillor, so I accepted his offer," said Berra Nacar.

"That is exactly my point, master Cranst. All Wondites are incompetent and lazy enough to allow dictators to simply do what they want. That is what democracies do, Ms Nacar. We are not a democracy here," Thomas said, pointing at Berra, his very long finger nearly touching her forehead.

Berra gave Thomas a very long, condemning scowl. "Oh," Berra said snidely, "you're a hypocrite too, are you?"

Thomas went for Berra's hair. Shouting erupted, and then--

A well-dressed intern rang the dinner bell. It was time for dinner.

Berra and Thomas sat down, huffing and puffing. There was finally stillness in the War Room.

Finally, Cranst spoke: "I am making an executive decision for everyone's benefit".

"36 hours later," groaned the Braetha for Education and Welfare.

Cranst glared at the Braetha for Education and Welfare. Then he spoke: "I propose we contact Spain about this after we receive the referendum results. Only then do we make a statement".

Berra scoffed. "This is just ridiculous. You really trust Spain to answer the phone for us? For all we know we've scared them off. You know, we wouldn't be in this malarkey if not for the free press".

"Don't you start, Berra," Cranst said. "It's time for dinner."

1 June 2024

News highlights from Sertia for May 2024

2nd May:
The Braetha has faced increasing doubt in their current competence after refusing to retract a statement promoting Istkalenian citizens to violate immigration law to seek asylum in Sertia.

Sertian Diplomatic Management announced the closure of all its consular outposts in Istkalen by 1 October 2023, but internal resistance has prevented this. Sertian Diplomatic Service Braetha has stated that the decision to close embassies was "reckless" because it suggests that those seeking asylum in Sertia from Istkalen would need to cross the border of Reitzmag by any means necessary. This would be to reach the temporary outpost of the Civilian Maritime Agency for transit to Sertia. This outpost was closed in February.

5th May:
A cow has been arrested in the village of Purrage for illegally crossing the border between Sertia and Aspern.

The Purrage Border House, which is now a museum, left its doors open to any and all visitors, one of whom happened to be a cow who wandered in from a nearby field. The cow crossed the boundary on the floor where the old border passes through the building, and was promptly "arrested" by museum officials and returned to his owner.

The Purrage Border House museum opened in 2024 in commemoration of the most recent Schism, however the site also marks a boundary between the Kingdom of Prew and Climaer which has been officially and unofficially used since the 13th century. The border between the two former kingdoms passes nearly through the middle of the village of Purrage. According to the original trade agreement between the two kingdoms in 1224, livestock were only able to pass the border between high noon and 3pm. This bewildered cow arrived at the museum at 4pm. The cow's owner, Mr Max Whyca thanked the museum staff for returning his cow named Ruby.

The 15th Century border crossing between Prew and Climaer, now next to the Purrage Border Museum.

10 May:

Christian pilgrimage routes to reopen for the summer tourist season

Following maintenance of the land and field on which these routes cross the leading body of Bothorist christians, Botherus, has prepared the routes to be used this season by pilgrims from around the country and beyond by hiring paid staff and volunteers to manicure and signpost the footpaths.

There are four routes--colloquially known as "Bothorist Highways"--across Sertia which historically were used by pilgrims, travellers and visitors for a very long time. It is said that Verna II Osperfey may have used these routes to campaign for the acceptance of the Sertian Domex 1224, to which scholars also attribute the spread of Bothorism across mainland Sertia.

Bothorism originates with Verna II Osperfey, but began in Verna's birthplace in the West Olves. She was awarded the title of princess when she gained favour in the court of Osperfey's king Yarexyl.

The four footpaths consist of the Yarrew Way from Rowsperch to Kylegore; the Agmerenth, which goes from Osperfey to Hemberdale; the Ydrinnias on the West Olves from Vernaina to Liciller; and the Breque'er Road, which runs from the monastery of St Nyle near Plariaras to Antem Combever. There are many more footpaths across Sertia which are still official transit routes throughout the country. They are free to use and showcase many remarkable ancient landscapes, such as the Tremaras swamp in northern Sertia.

(to be continued)

I agree with Cllr. Tilkanas about the grave threat that alternative medicine poses to the public, especially to those who are deemed to be a vulnerable person. However, it is important that we respect every individual's informed choices as an expression of autonomy, and thus I would like to introduce the following amendment:

III. Alternative medical providers must duly inform users of their services that practices deemed to be 'alternative medicine' under this act are not endorsed by any official health agencies, and the provider must disclose any possible consequences of undergoing alternative medical treatment.

a. All practising alternative medical institutions must apply for and obtain a licence to practise. This licence accredits appropriate compliance with disclosure requirements.

b. The disclosure, and disclosure licence, must be made public and readily available to users and to potential users.

c. The relevant government agency, determined by the government of a respective state, can request evidence of this disclosure and licence to ensure continued compliance, and issue penalties for noncompliance.

Bulletin 477: Declaration by the Order of the Braetha

We, the Order of the Braetha of the Six Unions of Gadalland and Aspern address the declaration of independence made by the Aspernian territory earlier this evening.

This evening, after a fortnight of tensions in the city of Osperfey, the West Olves, and throughout our nation, a final collapse of civility has occurred between the long-united kingdoms of Gadalland and Aspern, and the Six Unions.

We wish to stress to our citizens in Sertia, abroad, and the nations of the EU that, more than anything, this Braetha honours peace and prosperity, and we wish for our decisions on this night to reflect the virtues of our union, and how these virtues have remained for almost 800 years.

The Braetha recognise and appreciate bids by our citizens for independence. Because of this, we have consulted the Sertian Domex 1224 to come to our final decision, to avoid any unnecessary escalation of tensions between fellow Sertians.

The passage we have consulted proceeds as follows, in Section III, 43.12:

"Herrard-n droquea ras qerda mal-iiak pollodwy-s ynnx, masyn drobillias qerdyn fontri-istrante".

(In English: The sovereignty of these nations of old is to be respected throughout the land)

This passage communicates the right of every one of the old nations to retain their sovereignty. However, the Domex also guarantees the fundamental right of wellbeing to every Sertian.

The Domex also states that, where there is a declaration of independence, the Braetha automatically recognises it until they have decided its "status in virtue". In other words, the extent to which this declaration was made peacefully and with the best interest of all parties in mind.

It is clear to the Braetha that this declaration of independence has not been conducted in the sentiment of retaining wellbeing for all Sertians. Rather, it has manifested as a revolt against a government established in trust given to it by the citizens it governs.

Such a bid for independence would be supported by this Braetha where there is a vote by every citizen of Gadalland and Aspern to separate this nation into requisite parts.

The Braetha, with permission by Fornithias Cranst, ceases to recognise the Republic of Aspern as a legitimate state until a vote in peace-time has been conducted to this effect.

• We give permission to the Spanish military in Gadalland and Aspern to take action contrary to this separatist movement. However, they are not required to do so.

• We order the Sertian Maritime Service to cease service to separatist sailors, viz. to allow them entry to or departure from any ports of entry within Gadalland and Aspern.

• We mandate a curfew of 00:00 for all households and businesses in Gadalland and Aspern.

This mandate of the Order of the Braetha is issued with full and immediate effect.

ERE BACH'AIR DUN

14:17

The Political Party aspect of the Bill is facing heavy backlash in the War Chamber, with the bill's sponsor Brætha Berrá Nacar fending off searing attacks from other members of the Brætha.

Foreign Brætha Mr Edwin Blansinyth just said that the Political Party system "introduces vapid, useless ideological and cultural wars that don't fit the Sertian way".

Ms Nacar and her allies have introduced an amendment that would not establish Political parties but instead would widen eligibility to vote to everyone, rather than those registered with a Brætha. Scepticism seems to also surround this proposal.

Most other parts of the bill seem ready to be accepted by the other Bræthas.

On Istkalen's National Salvation Council

29 May 2023

Where the Brætha stand

The Brætha recognise the National Salvation Council as a governing body of Istkalen. This means that the Brætha, and the wider Sertian government, will consult the National Salvation Council for all official state concerns, and when addressing the governing body of Istkalen, will refer to the National Salvation Council of Istkalen as the NSC (Istkalen).

The Brætha recognise the unstable nature of this situation, and the limits of any interim government, yet we further acknowledge the need within our government to recognise an official government of each state. This is to prevent the imposition of sanctions as pursuant to Rolling Sanctions Act 2021 which we have decided are not applicable in this situation.

Advice to the public

Istkalen continues to be recognised by the Brætha despite this change in governance.

All Sertian nationals are advised to check the Brætha's travel advisories before going to Istkalen. Diplomatic representation for Sertians may be limited and it is important to acknowledge the risks of travelling without it.

When travelling to a place without proper diplomatic authority, you risk

• Problems entering a country, such as being detained by immigration officers

• Delays in receiving legal services if you are arrested

• Delays in, or a lack of passport renewal and emergency passport services

• Problems leaving a country if your passport or travel documents are not in order.

ERE BACH'AIR DÚN

BREAKING NEWS: Braethan ratify democratic procedure bill

4 July 2024

The Braetha have ratified the Democratic Procedure Act 2024 after approximately 20 hours of nonstop debate. Bits and pieces of the originally proposed bill still stand, but many others have been axed or revised.

The Braetha for Education, Mr Elmas Ratriach, has said the passage of the bill "represents a new democratic age of Sertian life", and Mr Edwin Blasinyth, the Braetha controlling foreign affairs, says the bill "is a success for everyone".

Here is an overview of the parts of the bill that were successful, edited, or removed.

Right to establish political parties: UNSUCCESSFUL

Political parties are, still, not allowed to exist in the Kingdom of Sertia after the passage of this bill. Additionally, any political parties permitted before the passage of this bill must be dissolved.

This is a big hit to take for the Aspernian Coalition, a political party organised to represent the interests of the now defunct Republic of Aspern, whose members regularly engaged in illegal activities.

ONLY VOTES FROM BRAETHA REGISTRANTS COUNT: Revised

In Sertia, while technically anyone can vote, only those registered with the correct Braetha will have their votes count fully, at a value of 1. If you're not registered with a Braetha, your vote counts as 0.

Now, however the DPA ensures that all citizens of Sertia have the right to vote without being part of a Braetha, with their votes counting for 0.5. Additionally, individuals in higher education may register with the Braetha for Education to have their votes count fully, at a value of 1.

Even better, citizens of Sertia can now vote in as many Braetha elections as they please, without registering.

Non-citizens of Sertia will be able to vote as long as they are registered with a Braetha, at a value of 0.5. If you have been in Sertia for longer than 10 years or show exceptional knowledge of Sertia, you may be able to have your vote counted at a value of 1.

VOTING AGE LIMIT ESTABLISHED

There has never been a codified age limit to vote in Sertia, however the earliest age at which you can register with a Braetha is 16. The DPA now says that you can vote at the age of 16 (regardless of your Braetha registration status) OR whenever you join further education, whichever is earlier.

ELECTION REFERENDA: SUCCESSFUL

Citizens of Sertia can now vote in referendums to call an election for certain Braetha positions. There will be three referenda each year: one in January, one in April, and one in August. If an election is called in any of those referenda, an election will be scheduled for the date at which the next election referendum would take place.

FORMER ASPERNIAN REBELS' VOTES DIMINISHED

Those who can be shown to have had a part in, or been sympathetic to, the Aspernian Republic will be permitted to vote, but their votes will count at a value of 0.25.

CAN BRAETHAN VOTE? NO

Those who currently hold office in the Braetha will not be permitted to vote in elections.

Statement by Head Brætha Fornithias Cranst, on the capture of Guthrún Wond

9 July 2023

I am pleased to announce today that Mr Guthrún Wond, the former head of the Customary Logistics Council, and the man responsible for the breaking of the sacred six unions of Gadalland and Aspern, was taken into custody yesterday morning, while trying to escape.

I would like to take a moment to recognise how significant this is. Guthrún Wond became corrupted by his loss of power to the extent that he tore our nation apart by its fundamental core values, namely, our ancient unions so carefully administered by Verna II of Osperfey in 1224. Before that time, not only Aspern and Sertia, but all six kingdoms of Gadalland and Aspern were hostile toward one another. Imagine the misery and violence which would come with the constant fear of war, which so many good people of Sertia have had to experience over the past seven months.

I would like to thank the Spanish military for providing the forces to Sertia to carry out this operation, and to our Sertian military and police for their dedication.

Citizens, I declare this conflict over. I will restore the nationalities of those who were trapped in separatist territory. Along with our very capable Brætha, I will rebuild this country's infrastructure and culture. I will provide vital government support to workers, firms and families of Sertia. Not only will we rebuild, we will go even further.

Today, the Brætha and I have also decided to invest in access to clean water for all to celebrate this victory. We will be opening our first water treatment plant in Rowynnith (applause), and for the time being we will provide personal water treatment devices for all families, at little to no expense. It is a hallowed Sertian tradition to adore the salt of our seas, and drink our holy water in the name of Verna, but there are many who do not have this everyday privilege. And after the conflict, Aspern cut off millions of people from access to clean water. The Brætha and I are committed to restoring this right.

And finally, I would like to tell you all something about Sertia. Perhaps you already know that there are forces gathering who wish us badly. This includes countries within the EU itself. Spain has remained a true and trusted friend, but because of conflicts between continental powers, our nation remains collateral. We must show them that we're not just an island. We are an idea, a nation, and a people with powerful values capable of anything. That is why I am announcing increased investment in maritime security by opening our maritime force to recruitment and training. I have also ordered increased surveillance along the coastlines and in inland waterways.

The lesson from today being, my dear friends, we have come a long way from the island we used to be, but we have a long way to go. And I will be here along the way to help negotiate this change.

Thank you all for your time.

HB Fornithias Cranst

BY ORDER OF THE BRÆTHA
ERE BACHÁIR DÙN

Worrying increase of homeless former-Aspernians should be addressed, charities say

A new study by the Sertian Border Clerks, a human rights and immigration charity, has shown that the number of homeless people who formerly held Aspernian nationality has increased from 18% in January of this year to 24% as of this July.

Many people who lived to the south of the country, in Osperfey or the West Olves had their Sertian passports and other vital records destroyed or confiscated by the Aspernian regime, and now struggle to prove their immigration status to landlords and letting agencies.

Former Aspernian citizens are different from persons designated as Aspernian sympathisers, the latter of whom actively participated in the secession of the Republic of Aspern. Aspernian sympathisers have had their vital records and government documents taken away and currently do not hold the right to live in Sertia other than in prison, and those who are still not imprisoned have warrants out for their arrest. The minimum sentence they will all serve is 3 years 1.5 months.

Aspernian citizens, however, have been caught in the crossfire, many have lost their homes and are subject to trafficking, homelessness and even deportation proceedings since they are unable to produce legal documents.

Last year in light of this scandal the government relaxed the rules around deportation and immigrants who do not have legal documents. The effect of this change is yet unclear.