Shirekeep Gazette, 1752
IV: Willem Antonius des Vinandy appointed Steward of Shireroth
SHIREKEEP — In a notable development within Shireroth's political structure, Willem Antonius des Vinandy has been officially appointed Steward, as stipulated in the recent imperial decree. This appointment marks an important step in the further consolidation of leadership within the kingdom.'
According to the imperial decree published, Willem Antonius des Vinandy was appointed by the emperor to take on the role of Steward. His predecessor, Shen Suyi, was honourably dismissed, despite not having been seen in public for a year and a half. There were even rumours that Shen Suyi had died. Shen Suyi's absence became painfully apparent during negotiations on the imminent establishment of the Apollonian-Benacian Community. The Regent, Rafi Hakimi bin Alsalam, was present at those negotiations on behalf of Shireroth.
In a joint press conference with the Regent and the new Steward, Rafi stated: "The stability of the Empire is paramount. We are confident that Willem Antonius, with his experience as an administrator, can fulfil this task." Willem Antonius des Vinandy responded by saying he was honoured by the trust placed in him. "I see this appointment as a great responsibility and I am determined to do my best for the welfare and future of Shireroth," said the new Steward. When asked by the press whether this appointment and the appointment of a new Prætor of the Landsraad Shirekeep would result in an influx of Vinandys, the Regent responded: "As you know, we were surprised by the sudden passing of Kaiser Ayreon V, may he rest in peace, which led to me taking on an active role as Regent. With Shen Suyi absent, I had to intervene in the interests of the state. In such cases, you look to your circle of knowledgeable administrators."
A more sensational journalist asked the Regent when a Vinandy would sit on the Golden Mango Throne. Rafi became angry and irritated. He said, "We are not going to commit treason; we are trying to save this Empire from administrative ruin."
The rest of the new Steward's government has yet to be formed. Willen Antonius was previously governor of the Çakari Oceanic Territory and has returned his position to the Shahanshah of Çakaristan. Together with his wife, Sirithil, Lady Laegel, they moved from Hana'apui to Shirekeep. The local newspaper in Tarria expresses the hope that the Lady will not forget her ancestral homeland. During her husband's time as governor of the Oceanic Territory, of which Tarria is a part, the Lady was often seen in Tarria.
New Prætor of the Landsraad
After more than ten years, the 102-year-old Li Suyi asked the Landsraad to be allowed to retire. The Duke of Vidarstadt nominated Samira Avon-El Myksos, but she politely declined. Samira is already Regent of the Realm of the Lakes and a Senator of the Lakes. Frederik Alfons des Vinandy was then nominated. The Landsraad agreed. Because Frederik Alfons des Vinandy is the King of Batavia, he has appointed his son as Regent.
Political commentators criticised the situation, as Frederik Alfons is the brother of Willem Antonius. Rafi is a distant cousin, as Rafi's grandfather is the brother of Frederik Alfons and Willem Antonius' father. As a result, the three most powerful positions in Shireroth are held by one family. What will this Rule Vinandy mean for Shireroth?
