The news from Östlaed reports the following:

Eorl Mark Günther Stefan of Östlaed, and Grand Master of the Order of Sanct Creopbaina has reorganized the state religion of Östlaed. In a royal decree, he proclaimed that he would take direct charge of the Order, and disband the Council of the Masters. In his words:

"Now that we have our own realm, and more and more of our people are coming to Östlaed, I see no purpose that the Council of the Masters can serve other than to give the impression that the Östrons are but a roaming, tribalistic people. We are that no longer - our place is in Östlaed. All business of the Order will be conducted from the Östur."

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Ealdorman Cerdic Beoden Accynnafon of Östlond
Runner Up of the Glas Claddach Boat Building Competition
Minister of Justice

I trust this is a strong, consolidating move for your people to make.

What now for the previous Masters? What will their purpose be?

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Petra Ravnikaar of The Veil

The Masters still exist.

However, they will only be in charge of their monastery and/or serving in conjunction with other Masters.

The Masters Council decided the following:

* Matters of faith, theology

* Assignment of Masters and other ranks

* Assignment of Knighthood

* Approving/commissioning new ships within the Order's Merchant Fleet

* Acting collectively as figureheads for the Patrons.

The Eorl has taken over these responsibilities.

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Ealdorman Cerdic Beoden Accynnafon of Östlond
Runner Up of the Glas Claddach Boat Building Competition
Minister of Justice

A very interesting political development. I hope the Eorl does not bite off more than he can chew.

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Ulrik Gunnarson
Duke of the Gathered Races of Hermertia Homeland (GRHH)
The Chairman of the GRHH Co.

There are some in the realm who certainly feel that isn't the issue, but that power grabbing within the realm could result in a loss of freedom of expression. Certain rights may need to be declared.

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Ealdorman Cerdic Beoden Accynnafon of Östlond
Runner Up of the Glas Claddach Boat Building Competition
Minister of Justice