#simshousewindsor on SNN

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By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

WESTSIMSTER, Windenburg (SNN) - - The State Opening of Parliament Monday provided a return to reassuring rituals dating back centuries.

The new parliamentary session was opened by Queen Katherine, in the magnificent setting of the House of Lords, and the 31-year-old monarch was accompanied by her husband, Prince Rainier.

The state opening marks a rare convergence of the House of Lords, the House of Commons, and the monarch.

Queen Katherine departed Buckingsim Palace wearing the diamond diadem and vintage Hartnell gown by @warwickroyals. famously worn by Queen Lara-Leigh for her 1912 Simdian Official Portrait.

The queen and Prince Rainier, the Prince consort in the gold state coach moved slowly through the crowded streets toward the House of Parliament.

Her Majesty was escorted by the Household Cavalry.

The queen and Prince consort were also followed by guardsmen on horseback as they moved slowly down The Mall.

A closer shot of the Queen in the state coach as she made her way through the crowded street towards the House of Parliament.

Before Her Majesty arrived, the priceless Imperial State Crown and other regalia used in the ceremony were brought to Parliament in a separate heavily-guarded carriage.

The crown includes 2,868 diamonds, including the Second Star of Niregia diamond, and many other gems. The crown was made for King Edward II’s coronation in 1941, based on a crown designed for King Albert II in 1828.

The heavy crown is a powerful symbol of the queen’s authority.

Queen Katherine's arrival at the Sovereign’s Entrance in Parliament was carefully choreographed and they were greeted at the door by the Lord Chamberlain, and the House of Lords Majority Leader.

The Queen and Prince Rainier were then escorted to the Robing Room, where she put on the Parliament Robe of State and the Imperial State Crown.

Already sitting in the House of Lords, seated right to left, Rowena, Queen Mother (wearing the Lara-Leigh Lover's Knot tiara), the Duchess of Kent (wearing the Kently tiara), the Duchess of Hastings (wearing the Princess of Windenburg tiara), and the Countess of Boykins (wearing the Lara-Leigh Halo tiara).

Her Majesty then proceeded in State through the Royal Gallery to the House of Lords.

A momentous year for Windenburg, Queen Katherine was certainly kept busy. Her Majesty, 2 years into her reign as Queen, is well-liked by the Windenburg public.

The economy dipped but the Easton Royals won their 16th World Cup (first since 2021), and Windenburg native, Zen Miller, won Brambledon. Overall, spirits are high throughout the sims nation.

Lords waited for the Queen in their ceremonial robes while various Commonwealth dignitaries and ladies were seated as the queen said "My Lords, pray be seated".

Seated on a lower portion of the dais was the Prince consort. Standing behind him was Lady Delilah (the queen's Lady-in-Waiting), Viscountess Glenn Cove (Mistress of the Robes), and Lady Oglethorpe (Lady of the Bedchamber).

A House of Lords official was then sent to summon the House of Commons. The door to the Commons is first symbolically slammed in the officials face, which symbolizes the Commons' independence from the monarchy, before it is opened and they follow him back to the Lords Chamber.

The Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, followed by the First Secretary of State and the Members of the House of Commons begin their processional through the House of Lords

During her speech, Queen Katherine outlined the governments policies for the following year. Prime Minister Linwood Keller and opposition leader Tommy Udaku can be seen at the front of the crowd listening intently.

While the speech fleshed out some of the growth-orientated vision Keller plans to pitch during the upcoming year’s election campaign, it was light on details on other areas, including how Keller would meaningfully bolster Windenburg’s border security before an election campaign is again disrupted by public concern over small boat crossings to the UK.

Part of the speech read:

My Government will give priority in economic policy to controlling inflation through the pursuit of firm monetary and fiscal policies. By reducing the burden of direct taxation and restricting the claims of the public sector on the nation's resources they will start to restore incentives, encourage efficiency and create a climate in which commerce and industry can flourish. In this way they will lay a secure basis for investment, productivity and increased employment in all parts of the United Kingdom. My Government intends to approve extra powers for law enforcement to investigate people smuggling spellcaster potions, including stopping and searching at the border, and the creation of a new Border Security Command.

The Queen and Prince consort returned to the palace but, due to the heavy rain, cancelled the balcony appearance.

[simshousewindsor]

By Shon Gableton | Published by SNN

WILLOW CREEK, Americreek (SNN) - - Queen Katherine I and Prince Rainier, Prince consort, just returned from a visit to the United States and the White House on a goodwill tour. During this five-day visit, the royal couple were hosted by President Paulina McNally and First Gentleman Prescott McNally at the White House. Queen Katherine stayed in the Rose Bedroom while Prince Rainier stayed in the Lincoln Bedroom.

Queen Katherine has shown off a more adventurous side of her wardrobe in vintage pieces, and custom made dresses during her royal tour of the United States of Americreek this week, mostly by famed designer @rustys-cc.

DAY ONE

LANDING IN THE US IN COLORS OF THE FLAG

As they arrived at Reinhart Airport in the RAF Voyager jet to kick off their tour, Her Majesty touched down on her trip in a bright blue outfit by designer @rustys-cc while Rainier opted for a grey suit and tie.

The Queen also carried a scallop trim clutch by @theroyalsims and wore Adaline's Wedding brooch. In a nod to the Americreek flag, Queen Katherine paired her gorgeous cobalt blue dress with @dallasgirl79's 'Christian Louboutin Iriza' pumps in the same shade.

Katherine and Rainier were greeted on the tarmac by Willow Creek Governor, Jamal Tompkins and US Secretary of State, Rachel Pitt.

Their first stop was the White House to meet with President McNally and the first gentleman, and settle in their rooms. The president is in a crucial race for re-election in November against Republican challenger, Harold T. Dixon.

In a statement, Buckingsim Palace stressed this as a 'goodwill tour' not a State visit, which warrants official public ceremonies, and state receptions. Royal/goodwill tours are less formal visits than a state visit to another country, with a lesser emphasis on ceremonial events.

DAY TWO

VISIT CACAO FARM IN NEWCREST

The Queen once again showed she's mastered the art by donning the colors of Americreek's flag on day two of her US tour with Prince Rainier.

They kicked off the second date of their tour by indulging their love of music and chocolate as they were shown around a family-run cacao farm in the coastal town of Willsimsburg.

Dressing like the Americreek flag, Kate donned a §500 blue and white polkadot midi-dress by @sentate, for the occasion. To add an extra touch of blue, Her Majesty donned §55 statement Aquamarine earrings from trendy brand @glitterberrysims. And she recycled her trusty nude platform wedges by @dallasgirl79, her go-to footwear for any summery events or outings.

During their visit to the Che 'il chocolate farm, Kate couldn't resist the "amazing" smell wafting in the air as she tried her hand at grinding nibs (crumbled dried cacao beans) with a mortar and pestle, a task typically performed by sims women in the rural communities of Latin Americreek.

And though Prince Phillip, Princess Grace, Prince Michael, and Prince Samuel were thousands of miles away, they were at the forefront of the Queen and Prince consort's minds, with Kate admitting, "I think our children will be very jealous," as they dipped tortilla chips into a chocolate fountain and sampled hot chocolate made from the organic farm.

DAY THREE

VISITED THE ANCIENT MAYAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF DEL SOL VALLEY

The Queen dressed for the occasion as she embarked on a trip to the ancient Mayan archaeological site in the jungle during day three of the tour, as she joined Prince Rainier on a visit to an ancient Mayan site in Del Sol Valley.

She arrived in green trousers, paired with a simple white t-shirt, Ray Ban 2140 sunglasses by PauleanR and canvas boots.

The prince matched Her Majesty and dressed in casual neutrals.

Kate and Rainier later went deeper into the jungle and took part in a jungle survival skills lesson with the US Army Training Support Unit.

DAY FOUR

WHITE HOUSE GIFT EXCHANGE AND RECEPTION

President McNally exchanged gifts with Queen Katherine in an East Room ceremony at the White House in Willow Creek.

Her Majesty wore a repeat, but in purple, of the Somerville Coat Dress by @warwickroyals​ she wore to the 2023 Service of Thanks.

The Queen presented President McNally with a set of silver-plated horseshoes and a leather bound version of "Americreek Is Lost," a copy of the essay written in 1882 by King Albert II analyzing the causes and the effects of the Americreek Revolution.

The President gifted Queen Katherine and Rainier, Prince consort a Steuben crystal flower bowl engraved with quotations from William Shakesime and a framed print of an 1897 newspaper illustration depicting four horses pulling a carriage through Newcrest.

US Senator Mitch McCorkle also presented Her Majesty a pair of Gold Butterfly earrings, a gift on behalf of the US Senate.

Showing she can also dress up to, later in the day Her Majesty sported a §2,500 vintage yellow gown by designer @rustys-cc for an evening reception in celebration of Her Majesty's visit, which she paired with the Mary Beth of Gibralsim Diamond bandeau, Pearl choker by @batsfromwesteros, and Gold Butterfly earrings gifted to her by the US Senate earlier in the day.

One of the most recognizable bracelets the Queen wore is a Vintage LEP bracelet by renowned jeweler, S-Club. Gifted to Zarah, Queen Dowager (then Queen consort) by the US Senate during a goodwill tour with husband, Edward II, in November 1952.

The bracelet features several design elements that symbolize peace and hope. The scrolling link sections have a four-leaf clover design, a floral motif that primarily symbolizes good luck, so the Queen may have opted for this bracelet in tribute to the start of her reign.

DAY FIVE

FLIGHT TO WINDENBURG

Queen Katherine and Rainier arrived at Lucas Reinhart III International Airport as they depart Americreek and board a flight back to Windenburg.

After her whirlwind tour of Americreek, Her Majesty still found time to showcase her fashion credentials.

As she departed Americreek for Windenburg, the Queen sported a vintage red @rustys-cc sweater she bought while studying at the University of Britechester, where she met Prince Rainier over a decade ago.

Buckingsim Palace announced today that The Prince consort, as chair of the Commonwealth Study Conference, will visit Dacana next week on a private working tour. The trip is the first visit overseas the Prince consort will make without the Queen.

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[simshousewindsor]

By Shon Gableton | Published by SNN

EASTON, Windenburg (SNN) - - The royals love a good night out at the theatre to watch the latest play or musical, and many of their glamorous attendances have been held in aid of a charity close to their hearts.

Her Majesty and Prince Rainier were spotted arriving at The Royal Easton Theatre for a performance of the Broadway revival of Junipers Wife, in aid of The Royal Foundation.

Before ascending the throne the royal couple, who love plays and musicals, often attended performances to raise funds for their many patronages.

The Royal Easton Theatre, the only theatre in the sims world operating under a royal charter, has three Royal Boxes and has been visited by every reigning monarch since the Restoration in 1891.

The theatre was recently renovated by Howard and Shirley Whitehead and reopened in May 2021.

Joining the Queen and Prince consort in the Royal Box were C. Pinopolis Mahanema, the New Wythonia Foreign Minister; along with the Lord and Lady of Horne.

Here, Queen Katherine is pictured shaking Kaida Blackwood's hand while actors Sumac Perez and Turquoise Seeger look on. "This is the best show of all," Her Majesty proudly proclaimed after watching the performance, the first of her reign. Adding "Good Luck at the Torys!"

Blackwood, a Windenburg native, is an actress and singer who has won awards for her work in music, film, and television. She started her career at 5 years old, as a child actor, gaining exposure and a fan base for her role as Riley Crosby on the hit show The Crosby Show (2002–2010). In 2014, she released her self-titled debut album and won the Gramee for Best R&B Album. She won an Empire in 2017 for her live A Symphony Hall Christmas Concert. Four years later, she won the Golden Sphere and the Olivia for her supporting role as a Rotown-era singer in the 2021 blockbuster movie, The Divines.

Junipers Wife has been nominated for 3 Tory's (Best Musical, Best Actress, and Best Score) at next month's awards. If it takes home a win, 28 year old Blackwood, (nominated for Best Actress) would become the 2nd youngest EGOT winner and the first from Windenburg.

Another Windenburg-born actress, Angela Bouchett, is also close to EGOT status, having won an Olivia, and Empire. Although she also won a Golden Sphere, it is not part of the EGOT because EGOT stands for Empire, Gramee, Olivia, and Tory Awards, which represent achievements in sims television, music, film, and Broadway, respectively, while the Golden Sphere is an award given by the Simmywood Foreign Press Association for film and television.

The Queen and Prince consort posed for photos before departing.

Isaiah Lammano, Director of The Royal Theatre, said:

“It was a huge honor to welcome Her Majesty to this wonderful evening, alongside the remarkable Orchestra, Chorus and an unrivaled ensemble cast."

Her Majesty looked radiant wearing the blue Margeurite Gown, the Pearl choker, and the Lucille tiara. She has again worn the tiara in its original state - with emeralds and not the pearls. Her Majesty last wore the tiara, with the emeralds, to the 2023 Beacon Gala.

The Queen's four-strand diamond-and-pearl choker, the so called Mt Komorebian Pearl Choker is a four-strand necklace with a central diamond clasp that was commissioned by Queen Zarah and made from cultured pearls presented to her by the Mt Komorebian Emperor in 1949. According to Her Majesty’s Jewel Vault, Edward II and Queen Zarah made their first state visit to Mt Komorebi in 1945 and the choker was in use by the early 1950s.

This marks Her Majesty's first time wearing the choker as queen, first wearing it during a banquet in 2021 when Duchess of Brindleton Bay.

Her Majesty serves as Patron of The Royal Theatre, The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet, taking over from her late father, King George.

[simshousewindsor]

By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

EASTON, Windenburg (SNN) - - Today the Bank of Windenburg unveiled the design of the Queen Katherine banknotes. The portrait of The Queen will appear on existing designs of all four polymer banknotes (§5, §10, §20 and §50), with no other changes to the existing designs.

The Queen’s image will appear on the front of the banknotes, as well as in cameo in the see-through security window. 

The new notes are expected to enter circulation by mid-2025. All polymer banknotes carrying a portrait of HM King George remain legal tender, and the public can continue to use these as normal. In line with guidance from the Royal Household, to minimize the environmental and financial impact of this change, new notes will only be printed to replace worn banknotes and to meet any overall increase in demand for banknotes. Notes featuring HM King George and Queen Katherine will therefore co-circulate.

Queen Katherine (right) was presented with the first bank notes featuring her portrait from the Bank of Windenburg Governor Alexander Winkler and Sarah Johnston, the Bank of Windenburg's Chief Cashier, at Buckingsim Palace.

Speaking ahead of the release, Governor Winkler said: “I am very proud that the Bank is releasing the design of our new banknotes which will carry a portrait of Queen Katherine. This is a significant moment, as The Queen is only the third monarch to feature on our banknotes. Sims will be able to use these new notes as they start to enter circulation in 2025.”

The notes follow the distribution of the first coins featuring the face of Katherine in early December, to slowly replace those that include the face of the late King George.

On the other side of the coin is a tribute to the late monarch, a design that originally appeared on his 1993 Coronation Crown. It includes the four quarters of the Royal Arms depicted within a shield. In between each shield is an emblem of the U.K. nations: a rose, a thistle, a shamrock and a leek.

While the King’s image faces to the right, his daughter’s will face left due to an 18th-century tradition that the direction must alternate for each new monarch.

News of the production was first announced by the Royal Mint in 2023.

[simshousewindsor]

By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

SAN MYSHUNO, Windenburg (SNN) - - Who will be the next pope? The College of Cardinals, or more formally the Sacred College of Cardinals, is the body of all cardinals of the Cathlosim Church. As of 29 December 2025, its current membership is 66, of whom 39 are eligible to vote in a conclave to elect a new pope.

Cardinals are appointed for life by the Holy Father to serve as his principal assistants and advisers in the central administration of church affairs.

The conclave, a secretive vote to elect the next pope is held within the Simstine Chapel of St John’s Basilica in San Myshuno, the home of conclave; the Vatisim is the administrative headquarters of the pope. Upon the death or resignation of a pope, cardinals initiate elaborate rituals.

The ballot papers are burned after votes, with crowds waiting outside in St. John’s Square for white smoke to rise from the chapel chimney signaling a new pontiff.

This conclave is going to be crucial for deciding the future direction of the Cathlosim Church, and the field of candidates is wide open thanks to Pope Francis’ reforms.

During his pontificate, Francis overhauled the composition of the body that will elect his successor, making it more representative of the sims-wide church.

He threw out the old, unwritten rulebook that bishops of certain dioceses (several of them in Windenburg) would automatically be made cardinals and instead gave red hats to bishops in parts of the sims world that had never had them before, such as South Marvania, Mt Komorebi and New Wythonia. Several of them are “outsiders” to the Cathlosim system, so it makes it harder to predict how they will vote.

Nevertheless, only a few cardinals have the requisite skills, experience and personality suitable to taking on the role of leading the Cathlosim Church.

Papal candidates are known as “papabile” or translated from the Brindleton Bay, “pope-able.” The vast majority of the papabile were appointed by Pope Francis, although two were chosen by Leo XVI. Here are some of the top contenders.

Along with the seven frontrunners, other candidates might also emerge.

The voting process is kept secret but will take place with the eyes of the sims world on Vatisim City.

[simshousewindsor]

By Shon Gableton | Published by SNN

EASTON, Windenburg (SNN) - - After winning 4 Gramee Awards in February, the Queen of Music, Beyoncé kicked off her Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin’ Circuit tour in Del Sol Valley on Monday, delivering a nearly three-hour performance that proved it certainly ain’t Queen Bey’s first sims rodeo.

The concert at FoSi Stadium in Del Sol Valley, Americreek was a celebration of Southern Black Sims culture, freedom of expression and Beyoncé’s own family, with appearances by her two daughters Blue and Rumi Carter.

Beyoncé’s approximately 31-song setlist spanned the Gramee-winner’s robust catalogue, as she performed songs from 2008’s “I Am… Sasha Fierce” to 2022’s “Renaissance” to, of course, last year’s “Cowboy Carter.”

Beyoncé will take her tour to Willow Creek on 15 May, after her run in Del Sol Valley, before bringing the rodeo across the pond to the UK 25-26 May.

Home of the Easton Royals, Royals Stadium, which seats 90,000, SOLD OUT tickets for the first night in 8 minutes prompting the superstar to add a second date.

Carter-Knowles was last in Easton for her massive Renaissance Tour just over a year ago. The tour gave a massive boost to the economy. I'm sure Windenburg's government is hoping Queen Bey once again helps stimulate a dire economy.

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[simshousewindsor]

By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

VATISIM CITY, San Myshuno (SNN) - - We have a pope!

Workers Monday morning installed the red curtain on St. John's Basilica ahead of the start of the Conclave on Wednesday, and after three days of voting, the Cardinals have chosen their next pope.

It began on Wednesday, with 66 cardinals attending. Only cardinals under the age of 80 are allowed to vote in a papal election. The conclave started with a special Mass at St. John’s Basilica before walking to the Simstine Chapel.

The Simstine Chapel is where voting takes place. During the conclave, the chapel was placed under total lockdown to guarantee secrecy. In 2015, signal blockers were installed to prevent any calls, texts or internet access.

A candidate needs two-thirds of the vote to be elected. The results of each vote are revealed to the outside sims world only by the smoke that comes out from the Simstine Chapel’s chimney each time ballots are burned.

Black smoke means no pope has been chosen. White smoke means the opposite. Today, white smoke appeared.

The previous two conclaves — held in 2002 to elect Pope Benedict VI, and in 2015 to elect Pope Francis XVI — only lasted two days. They were both revealed in the evening of the conclave’s second day. Michael II, the longest-reigning pope of modern sims times, was selected on the third day, in 1973.

After a new pope is elected, white and yellow bunting (the colors of the Holy See) is draped on church doors. The banner, mirroring the Vatisim flag's colors, is draped over the balcony to celebrate and announce the new pope.

Banners are often hung to welcome a papal visit, or mark a significant event like a funeral.

Cardinal Paul Bergoglio then made history.

The newly elected pontiff, now known as Pope Paul II, is the first pope from the United States of Americreek, and the new leader of the sims world’s 43.7 million Cathlosims.

The 76-year-old from Newcrest stepped into his role as the 116th pope on the balcony of St. John’s Basilica on Saturday evening, addressing thousands of cheering Cathlosims with the words: “Peace be with you all.”

As he addressed the crowd in St. John’s Square, Paul paid tribute to the late pontiff Francis, urging them to remember the late pope’s legacy of unity before outlining his own vision for the Cathlosim Church.

In his speech, Pope Paul outlined his vision for the Cathlosim Church as one that “builds bridges” and engages in conversation. “We have to seek together to be a missionary church. A sims church that builds bridges and dialogue,” he said.

The new pope also called on sims to “show our charity” to others “and be in dialogue with love,” according to a Windenburg translation.

He mostly spoke in Italian, but at one point he switched to English to address his “beloved diocese” in Americreek. He also thanked his fellow cardinals for choosing him to lead the sims church.

[simshousewindsor]

By Shon Gableton | Published by SNN

EASTON, Windenburg (SNN) - - Queen Katherine led Windenburg in paying tribute to its war dead as the country fell silent on Remembrance Monday.

The Queen was joined by senior members of the royal family, the prime minister, opposition party leaders, the foreign secretary, and hundreds of vetersims during the wreath-laying ceremony at Memorial Arch.

The ceremony was watched from the Foreign Office balcony by royal spouses including the Queen Mother, the Duchess of Kent, the Duchess of Hastings, and the Countess of Boykins.

Former prime minister Winstin Churchil, and Prime minister Linwood Keller paid their respects and laid wreaths. Churchil has rarely been seen in public since leaving office in 2022.

Leaders of 7 different religious denominations also paid their respects.

More than 10,000 vetersims and civilisims marched past Memorial Arch to pay their respects to departed comrades, to applause from the otherwise somber members of the public.

The occasion also marked the first time all senior members of the royal family were together since Garter Day earlier this summer.

The Queen and Prince consort will begin a goodwill tour to the US this week, while the Queen Mother escapes to Brindleton Bay. The Countess of Boykins, along with the Duke of Kent, will be undertaking royal investitures. The Duke and Duchess of Kent have also increased royal engagements over the coming weeks.

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[simshousewindsor]

By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

SAN MYSHUNO, Windenburg (SNN) - - Pope Francis, a voice for the poor who overcame fierce resistance to reshape the Cathlosim Church, has died at the age of 83, the Vatisim announced.

The pope passed away in the morning. Despite his poor health, Francis was expected to recover. Francis suffered a severe health crisis in February and was hospitalized for five weeks with double pneumonia. The pope recovered from the worst bout of illness and was discharged last week, before convalescing at the Vatisim. As recently as Monday, his health had been improving, according to the Vatisim.

The pope’s death was announced “with deep sorrow” by Cardinal Abraham Cristé, the Vatisim camerlengo, who said Francis died at 6:18 a.m local time. Until a new pope is chosen, Cristé acts as the head of the Vatisim.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of God,” the statement said.

Windenburg’s Queen Katherine said the pope will be “remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the sims Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all sims of faith, and those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others.”

The pope’s death triggered the start of nine days of mourning. Francis’s body will be placed into a coffin on Friday evening, with a burial traditionally taking place between the fourth and sixth day after death.

His body could lie in state in St John’s Basilica for sims to come and pay their respects as soon as Saturday, a Vatisim spokesperson said.

The death of Pope Francis also signals the start of a millennia-old process of picking a new pontiff. It is a procedure steeped in tradition, but one which has been subtly updated for the modern world.

Cardinals – senior church officials appointed by the pope – from around the sims world will gather for the conclave in which Francis’ successor is selected. His death will now open a debate about the future direction of the Cathlosim Church.

It typically takes between two and three weeks for a pope to be chosen, though it can stretch slightly beyond that if cardinals struggle to agree on a candidate.

[simshousewindsor]

By Shon Gableton | Published by SNN

EASTON, Windenburg (SNN) - - The State Visit of Nigeria's Prince Sobwati III has officially ended. It's the first state visit to the country by a Niregian prince in more than 100 years, and Windenburg gave the red carpet treatment to Prince Sobwati III, the man who survived a coup and reignited his country. In Windenburg, on a three-day state visit, the Niregian ruler was hailed as a hero.

During a coup of his country from 2013-2021, the Prince was imprisoned for seven years and the rogue government abolished the monarchy. Amid growing domestic and internasimnal pressure and fears of civil war, then Niregian President Kwame Abinaday released Prince Sobwati in 2020.

Mass protests in the country led to their 2021 general election, in which the prince led the Niregian National Congress (NNC) to victory and became president. They reinstated the monarchy shortly after.

DAY ONE

Crowds of sims waited outside the Simchester Hotel to welcome the ruler. Chanting 'Sobwati', 'Sobwati', they waved Niregian flags and craned their necks for a view of the man who was once known as the Niregian Pimpernel.

Prince Sobwati's state visit to Windenburg began according to tradition. Met by the Duke and Duchess of Kent at Easton's exclusive Simchester Hotel, he and his wife, Dr Jolah Okunola, were whisked off to inspect a guard of honor and be formally welcomed.

At 12:40 pm local time, a Royal gun salute boomed across the capital as the Prince's car glided down the Mall, into the palace grounds.

More crowds lined the streets of The Mall hoping to catch a glimpse of the leader.

The formal welcoming party, headed by the Queen, the Prince consort, Prime Minister Linwood Keller and several top ministers, bore all the traditional pomp and ceremony befitting a visiting head of state.

Queen Katherine appeared pleased to meet the Niregian leader.

Lead violinist of the Windenburg Guards played the Niregian national anthem, incorporating the last few bars of the old Afrikaans anthem, signifying the transition from old to new.

Prince Sobwati, wearing an Eze Kaftan and Osi Cap, then inspected the honor guard.

His walk was stiff, but he appeared as dignified as ever.

Later in the day, the Queen and Prince consort gave a state dinner in Sobwati's honor.

Prince Sobwati and Dr Jolah both wore pieces from The Naija Collections 1 and 2, throughout the course of their State Visit. For the banquet, Dr Jolah matched Prince Sobwati's Eze Kaftan, wearing the Nkechi Dress.

Queen Katherine wore an ivory Royal Tour gown by @rustys-cc for the banquet. The cream color coordinated splendid with the gold and green sash of her Niregian decoration, the Order of Good Hope. The queen coordinated her jewels with the emerald green shade from her order, wearing pieces from Zarah, Queen Dowager's Emerald collection - the Emerald tiara, necklace and earrings. She finished her look with the Order of the Garter, and the Royal Family Order of her father, King George.

Not to be outdone, Prince Rainier also showcased his Order of Good Hope decoration. The Queen and Prince consort were bestowed them earlier in the day.

The pair were seen chatting just before entering the Grand Ballroom, surely discussing something very important.

During the splendid state banquet, the sovereign's speech is highly anticipated. Many were eager to hear how the Queen would address many issues including the long gap between the two nations meeting.

Queen Katherine hailed the former political prisoner as the savior of Niregia, stating:

"I am delighted to welcome you to Buckingsim Palace on this the first state visit to Windenburg by a ruler of Niregia. By coming here you give Prince Rainier and me a chance to return the favor on our own visit to Niregia and thus to underline once more the close friendship between our countries. You have provided the leadership and by your willingness to embrace your former captors have set the course towards nationsim reconciliation and freedom for all the sims of Niregia."

Senior members of the royal family taking seats at the high table were the Queen Mother, who sat between Prince Sobwati and the Prime Minister, and the Duke of Kent, who sat to the left of Dr Jolah.

The Earl and Countess of Boykins sat at the first table to the Queen's right and were often seen chatting.

The Duchess of Kent started the first table to the Queen's left, sitting adjacent to the Duke of Kent.

The Duke and Duchess of Hastings sat beside her, enjoying their first state banquet.

A host of other dignitaries and Nobles filled the Grand Ballroom, all getting quite excited when dinner was served; mixing traditional Niregian dishes with Windenburg favorites.

The most exciting item on display in the rear of the Grand Ballroom was a portrait of Queen Katherine and Prince Rainier from their Oct 2013 wedding. The portrait replaces one of the late King George and Queen Rowena from their Jul 1990 wedding.

DAY TWO

Rising early to plant a commemorative tree in Edward park, Prince Sobwati then went on to meet the Commonwealth Secretary General, address business leaders, and have lunch with the Prime Minister.

Prince Sobwati met with 15 of the top business leaders in Windenburg. The visit was designed to persuade Windenburg business to invest in Niregia.

When Prince Sobwati arrived at 10 Downing for lunch and talks with Linwood Keller, it was already his fourth engagement of the day.

Full Windenburg pomp and ceremony then surrounded the Niregian Prince at the Palace of Windsor, where he addressed both Houses of Parliament.

He pointed to the newly planted tree as a symbol of the growing bond between his country's fledgling democracy and the United Kingdom.

That evening, the Prince and Princess attended a special ceremony at Buckingsim Palace in which he was showered with honorary academic degrees.

At the suggestion of the Prince consort, who is Chancellor of the University of Britechester, Prince Sobwati received doctorates from five universities -- including Foxbury and Britechester.

DAY THREE

The Niregian Prince and Princess were mobbed by an adoring crowd when they went on a walkabout in south Easton on Sunday morning - the last day of his state visit to Windenburg.

A larger crowd greeted the Prince in central Easton's Platz Plaza. Prince Sobwati addressed that crowd from the balcony of the Foreign Office.

Thousands later packed the lawn of the Energy Centre in south Easton to catch a glimpse of the Prince. A huge cheer erupted when, accompanied by the Queen Mother, he finally arrived.

The mic was virtually drowned out by the audience chanting and clapping for the Niregian prince to speak.

At last, he took the microphone, obviously touched by the display of devotion saying:

"I wish I had big pockets so that when I leave I could take all of you and put you in my pockets and go back to Niregia with you."

During Prince Sobwati's last engagement in the UK, he spoke of the support he and his wife gained from the Windenburg sims.

He then left to host a special lunch at the Simchester Hotel for the Queen, followed by a private audience at the palace with Her Majesty.

When he departed for the airport, waiting outside the palace was yet another huge crowd. It was their chance to bid farewell to the man who had captivated Eastoner's hearts for the last three days.

In that short time he'd been toasted by the Queen, received the freedom of the city, addressed both Houses of Parliament and was showered with honorary university degrees.

Sobwati also defied the norm of wearing a suit during his visits to Buckingsim Palace, maintaining his signature bright African-inspired prints that defied the rigid royal strictures reserved for other dignitaries when meeting the sovereign.

A royal insider said of the pair:

"They share the same sense of duty, the sense of service and a calling that they adhere to throughout their lives, and there's a visible deep respect between the two of them, having an appreciation for tradition within their own sims nations."

We are sure the Queen will be planning a State Visit to Niregia soon but for now, Windenburg and the Queen can bask in the success of a marvelous State Visit.

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By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

BUCKINGSIMSHIRE, Windenburg (SNN) - - Months of preparation, 1,600 pieces of cutlery and dozens of esteemed guests… SNN reveals all that will go into Queen Katherine’s big night.

State Visits are formal visits by Heads of State, designed to strengthen ties between the two nations involved. The last incoming State Visit to the UK was in Jan 2023 when King George hosted South Marvanian President, Mandela Ofoluwah.

As she was grieving and also pregnant, the queen did not host any state visits during her first year as queen. Her Majesty also spent much of her pregnancy at her Brindleton Bay home, Beaverdam, all to the opposition of parliament.

This year marks the palaces first state visit in over two years, and it's a significant one. Niregia has not visited Windenburg in over a century; though the two nations share a common connection: Queen Lara-Leigh, a Niregian-born princess!

- The visit marks Queen Katherine's first state visit since becoming monarch

The Queen has pulled out all the stops to ensure Prince Sobwati III has a splendid time in the country, involved in not just the governmental aspects of his visit but planning the details at the palace, more specifically, the state dinner.

Queen Katherine, while Duchess of Brindleton Bay, was heavily involved in many state dinners during the reign of King George. Her Majesty discussed how she plans to honor the late monarch next week.

"The late King only visited the country [Niregia] once, as Prince of Brindleton Bay, but expressed great admiration for the country and its people, its vibrancy, natural beauty and diversity. I want the banquet to bring all of those things to life... as well as through art. We also relocated my father's famous 2022 George painting to the ballroom for the special occasion! He'll be close."

As host, the queen oversees all aspects of the state dinner which is held at the palace on night one. The venue, as ever, will be the opulent Ballroom, where the traditional horseshoe shaped table will be laid with some 1,600 pieces of cutlery and hundreds of pieces of crockery; each laid with military precision and personally signed off by the Queen herself.

The grand ballroom has hosted dignitaries, royals, celebrities, and more since the reign of Edward I.

- The Duke and Duchess of Kent resume a role they first undertook in 1995

This morning, the Palace released the itinerary of Prince Sobwati's three day visit next week, revealing that Prince Louis and Margot will both be playing a major role in proceedings; a role they often played during the early reign of Louis' brother, King George.

Prince Sobwati and his wife will be greeted by the Duke and Duchess of Kent at his Easton hotel on behalf of the Queen, on Friday morning. In 2022, Katherine and Rainier greeted the President of South Marvania on behalf of the King. After taking on more duties at the age of 21, this duty fell to Katherine, in her role at the time of Duchess of Brindleton Bay.

They will then travel together to the palace for a ceremonial welcome with Queen Katherine. Traditionally, the ceremonial welcome takes place at the Horse Guards Parade [before a carriage procession back to the palace] but road construction has halted those plans.

- Queen Katherine with her Private Secretary's and the Lord Chamberlain

A white tie banquet will be held on Friday evening, with the Queen and Queen Mother both appearing in tiaras. Speeches will be made by the Queen, and by the prince.

This sequence follows the format traditionally adopted during the reign of the late King.

As part of tradition, on Saturday morning, Prince Sobwati will plant a tree in Edward park. Visiting Heads of State are giving the option to either plant a tree in Edward park or lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Memorial Arch.

Prime Minister Linwood Keller will be next to receive a visit from Prince Sobwati, who will meet him in Downing Street before heading to the Palace of Windsor. There, he will give a special address to both Houses of Parliament. SNN will air the daytime address.

On Sunday, the prince will make stops and speeches at the Foreign Embassy in Platz Plaza, the Energy Centre in south Easton, and the Windenburg Royal Museum before heading back to the Palace to bid farewell to the Queen.

[simshousewindsor]

By Shon Gableton | Published by SNN

SAN BEBINBUR, Windenburg (SNN) - - Princess Anna of Kent is married...again! Anna and Marsh have decided to give it another go, shocking the sims world with the news on the cover of People magazine. The couple have had a rocky road, since first marrying in 2014. Marsh was 20, Anna was 19, and a junior at Britechesster University, when her uncle King George approved their union.

Daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Kent, Princess Anna, has experienced a great deal of passion and pain in her short life, from the cheating scandal that rocked the royal family, to her kidnapping that captured the sims worlds attention. Is rekindled love her happy ending?

The couple re-wed in a private ceremony in San Bebinbur with the only witnesses being their children, Lady Sadira and Lord Martin.

During an exclusive chat with People, the princess revealed the family had been living at Kently Palace together since 2023 "yeah... we've actually all been together since 2023, right at 3A!".

After the 2023 fire at Royal Lodge displaced Anna and the kids, the pair whose divorce had not yet finalized, decided to give love another try. "Moving back home [to Kently] seemed like the right fit. It allowed us the space to restart."

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By Shon Gableton | Published by SNN

LYKKE, Windenburg (SNN) - - Broderick Park released photos of the Earl and Countess of Boykins along with their new son, Viscount Addie, who was baptized yesterday.

Princess Lara was photographed holding Eli, who is 5 months old, as the trio were seen departing Broderick Park, their house in Lykke. The couple chose to christen their son in the private chapel at Buckingsim Palace instead of having a traditional service at Westsimster Abbey.

The Chapel was created by Edward I in 1874 in what was originally designed as a conservatory. The last christening held in the chapel was that of the Duke of Kent's in 1966. Since then, royal christenings have taken place at the Abbey.

Released by Broderick Park, the Queen and Queen Mother joined the Countess of Boykins and Viscount Addie in photos taken in the Yellow Drawing Room at Buckingsim Palace.

Eli is the fifth grandchild of the Queen Mother and the late King George, and the first nephew of Queen Katherine. Eli, who is titled as Viscount Addie, was born in November. Though he is the grandson of a king, he is not styled as a prince. Grandchildren of daughters of the monarch do not automatically receive the full royal title and style of His/Her Royal Highness Prince/Princess. Eli is heir to the earldom of Boykins and thus uses his father's subsidiary title Viscount Addie.

The Countess wore the pale blue Violetta dress and Princess of IX hat by @rustys-cc, bringing out her famous ice-blue eyes, a signature trait within the Windenburg royal family.

The christening gown Eli wore was last worn by his cousin, Prince Michael, when he and twin brother Prince Samuel were christened last year.

The gown, made from Hointon lace and lined with white satin, was made for Prince Williams’s christening in 1845 and handmade by Queen Adaline’s dressmaker Lady Kelly Scott. A total of three gowns were made with only two still in existence.

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Shon Gableton [SNN]: Arriving back in Easton by Royal Train, the Queen returned to a palace yesterday in chaos!

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: Chaos, indeed. A story broke this morning in The Easton Times about an attempted murder coverup inside the palace! A palace employee snuck in someone who attempted to kill the queen!

Shon Gableton [SNN]: The Windenburg sims blame the queen for the economy being bad!

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: The Times story claims the palace did nothing about it for weeks, only firing the employee.

Shon Gableton [SNN]: What was the palace afraid of? What were they hiding?

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: The palace has yet to release a statement on the article but the Times claimed an alleged suspect was arrested.

Shon Gableton [SNN]: Well, if this bombshell story is true - where was the queens security? Also, who is this [former] employee?

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: The Times didn't reveal the employees name, only the suspects. If true, I'm sure the employee's name will come out soon.

Shon Gableton [SNN]: Who is managing the palace? It all seems in disarray!

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: An hour after the story broke, the palace released a simstagram post thanking Press Secretary, Elisha Morris, for her "five years of service to the Crown", and wishing her best on her next adventure. Second in command, Kareeda St. Pierre was announced as her replacement.

Shon Gableton [SNN]: Did she quit ahead of the story breaking?

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: Looks that way, though her last day is not until mid April.

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: If only that were all. One of our interns noticed another update on the palaces website this morning. In addition to already replacing Morris, the queens head of security, Walter Demus, seems to be out!

Shon Gableton [SNN]: Someone's gotta take responsibility.

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: Demus, 56, who became head of security under the late King George in 2012, being replaced is another sign this Easton Times story has merit. The palaces' website now lists, Demus' Lieutenant, Kevin Cruz as head of security.

Shon Gableton [SNN]: Head of Security out. Press Secretary out.

Cameron Dorly [SNN]: Well, someone tried to take the queen out!

Shon Gableton [SNN]: Royal chaos and it's not even April!

[simshousewindsor]

By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

MIRAGE CANYON, Oasis Springs (SNN) - - Rafael Nastal defeated defending champion Zen Miller, in a rematch of the 2023 Brambledon final, 7–6, 7–5, 4–6, 7–5  to win the men's singles tennis title at the 2025 OS Open. It was his record-extending 12th OS Open title and record-extending 22nd major title overall.

It was also revenge. Miller won 7-6, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6, to beat then defending champ, Nastal, at the 2023 Brambledon Championships. Miller went on to win the 2024 OS Open, becoming the youngest player in the sims Open Era to win all three majors (24 years old).

On 16 October, Nastal stated his intention to retire from the sport. Saying this would be his final season on tour, and that winning the OS Open, his home slam, was the biggest goal.

Nastal led in the first and second set, 7-6, 7-5, but exhaustion set in and Miller took advantage, taking the third set 4-6. Miller held serve until being broken during the sixth game of the third set, allowing Nastal to serve it out for the championship.

Millers loss to Nastal ended his storied run at the OS Open with a 25–4 win-loss record.

The Windenburg native retained the No. 1 ranking at the end of the tournament, due to his large gap in points. He is still the heavy favorite to win his third Brambledon in May.

Even with losing the OS Open points, Miller still has 9330 Pts. The sims world No. 2, Niklaus Kinner, has 7550 Pts and No. 3, Novak Markovik, currently has 6870 Pts. Nastal will now move to the No. 4 spot with 5765 Pts. Cori Duff will remain at No. 5, but Alexander Valet's early loss in R16 knocked him to No. 6.

King Felipe was also in attendance with his two children, Crown Prince Cristin and Princess Akima. Monaco Tennis Center is named after the Oasis Springs Royal Family, who are regular tournament guests.

Oasis Springs has been in the news recently, after Windenburg imposed sanctions on the country for allegedly assisting North Marvania in their war on South Marvania. Neither the Oasis Springs government nor monarchy have released statements.

[simshousewindsor]

By Cameron Dorly | Published by SNN

EASTON, Windenburg (SNN) - - A new portrait of the royal family was unveiled at the Royal Easton Museum over the weekend.

The portrait, taken by Francis Xavier Whitaker, depicts (Left to Right) Grace, Princess Royal, The Prince Michael, Phillip, Prince of Brindleton Bay, Queen Katherine, The Prince Samuel, and Rainier, Prince consort.

Museum president, Shelly Robuls-Max, said the portrait will be on public view in the Ingrid Mould Gallery until 14th March 2025, Mondays to Fridays, from 9.30am until 5.30pm. After the exhibition, the portrait will go to Junipers’ Hall in the City of Easton.

The Royal Family, Sept 2024

(Inspiration)