Letters are dispatched throughout the realm, delivered by couriers of the Imperial Post.

”TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN,

You are hereby cordially invited to the fourth convocation of the Imperial Association of Saint Everard IV. With due pomp and ceremony, tokens of office will be distributed to all members. Let us pray to the Lord our God for an evening of edification and fraternity. The object of this our first dinner shall be the governing constitution of our association.

To be held on the 15^th of Tobias' Bounty in the year of Our Lord 1807 within the dining room of Augustine Palace. Wine and spirits provided.

YOUR BROTHER,

JOSEPH II”

I M P E R I A L   L E G A L

E N C Y C L O P E D I A

G O D F R E Y   I   -   P E T E R   I I I

B Y   J . J.   D E   S A R K O Z Y

F O R E W O R D

            The legal history of the Holy Orenian Empire is a rich one, punctuated with some of the most artistically drafted works of legislature of all time. This text serves to present a chronological library of legal edicts issued by the Holy Orenian Emperor himself or a delegated legislative body, like a privy councilor or diet member, as well as a small appendix of recorded court cases. Not included are edicts issued by vassals or local governments such as mayoral offices. It is the author’s hope that aspiring judges, attorneys, and legislators use this text as a reference for their cases and as inspiration for future legislation.

            While the fruit of an unparalleled effort to archive Imperial law, the Imperial Legal Encyclopedia is by no means complete, and any unincluded article of legislation should be sent to Warren Amador for entry into revised editions.

((xboxersz/Cash4Gold#1763))

T A B L E   O F   C O N T E N T S

I. Emperor Ex. Godfrey I Horen

II. Emperor Horen I Horen

III. Emperor Bl. William I Horen

IV. Emperor Ex. Sigismund I Carrion

V. Emperor St. Peter I Chivay

VI. Emperor Robert I Chivay

VII. Emperor Boris I Tobias Carrion

VIII. Emperor St. Tobias I Sigismund Carrion

IX. Emperor Alexander I Tobias Carrion

X. Emperor John I Frederick Horen

XI. Emperor Bl. John II Sigismund Horen

XII. Emperor John III Owyn Horen

XIII. Emperor John IV Augustus Horen

XIV. Emperor Bl. Robert II Henry Horen

XV. Emperor Philip I Frederick Horen

XVI. Emperor John V Frederick Horen

XVII. Emperor Peter II Sigismund Horen

XVIII. Emperor John VI Maximillian Horen

XIX. Emperor Aurelian I Horen

XX. Emperor Augustus I Horen

XXI. Emperor Antonius I Horen

XXII. Emperor Joseph I Horen-Marna

XXIII. Emperor Godfrey II Remus Cascadia

XXIV. Emperor John VII Achilles Cascadia

XXV. Emperor Alexander II Stephen de Joannes

XXVI. Lord Protector Adrian de Sarkozy

XXVII. Emperor Peter III Antonius Helane

XXVIII. Appendix of Cases

I. Emperor Ex. Godfrey I Horen

 1379 – 1405

First Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Second Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Third Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Trade Agreement Between the Holy Princedom of Malinor and the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Declaration of the Annexation of Tarrel and the Isles of Ignus Nomine. [Copy]

Declaration Regarding the Livelihood of the People. [Copy]

Edict of Currency. [Copy]

The Sheffield Alliance. [Copy]

Edict of Avalon. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Marshal. [Copy]

Edict of Chivalry. [Copy]

Edict of the High Sheriff. [Copy]

Edict of the Inquisition. [Copy]

Edict of the Lord High Chancellery. [Copy]

Edict of the Treasury and Tithes. [Copy]

Edict of Teutons. [Copy]

Fourth Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Declaration of Medium Crown Authority. [Copy]

Book I: Concerning Legal Agencies. [Copy]

Book II: Concerning the Conduct of Causes. [Copy]

Book III: Concerning Marriage. [Copy]

Book IV: Concerning Natural Lineage. [Copy]

Urguan-Oren Treaty. [Copy]

First Unitarian Treaty of Aturial. [Copy]

Malinor-Oren Treaty. [Copy]

Book V: Concerning Business Transactions. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Knight. [Copy]

Edict of the Lord High Sheriff. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Chamberlain. [Copy]

Imperial Citizenship Reform Edict. [Copy]

Book VI: Concerning Theft and Fraud. [Copy]

Book VII: Concerning Acts of Violence and Injuries. [Copy]

Declaration of War on Malinor. [Copy]

Fifth Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Edict of Regulations on Commercial Area. [Copy]

Edict of Reporting of Duty, Military, and Legal Action. [Copy]

Edict of the High Chancery. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Marshal. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Chamberlain. [Copy]

Edict of the Lord High Sheriff. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Knight. [Copy]

Sixth Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

First Non-Aggression Pact of Dalroi. [Copy]

Declaration of Low Crown Authority. [Copy]

Imperial Edict of Abomination. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Coercitor. [Copy]

Edict of the Imperial Treasury: Taxation in Abresi and Further Notice. [Copy]

II. Emperor Horen I Horen

 1405 – 1420

Edict of Imperial Reconquest. [Copy]

Decree of the Holy Orenian Empire and the City-State of Malinor. [Copy]

Edict of the Lord High Chancellery. [Copy]

Seventh Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Edict of the Reformation of the Imperial Dragon Guard. [Copy]

Edict of the Discontinuation and Disbandment of the Teutonic Order. [Copy]

Declaration of Medium Crown Authority. [Copy]

Ordos Scrutiniatus of Kingston. [Copy]

Edict of Abomination and Heresy in Marriage. [Copy]

Edict of Apostates, Rogue Magi, and Witches. [Copy]

Edict of the Lord Justiciar. [Copy]

Edict of the High Steward. [Copy]

Edict of Regency. [Copy]

Edict of Succession. [Copy]

III. Emperor Bl. William I Horen

 1420 – 1426

Edict of the Teutonic Order. [Copy]

Edict of the Holy Order of the Red Dragon. [Copy]

Edict of the Pontifical States. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Vizier. [Copy]

Edict of the Grand Inquisitor. [Copy]

Edict of the Lord Magister. [Copy]

Eighth Tithe of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

Edict of the Imperial Physician. [Copy]

Edict of Dissolution of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

IV. Emperor Ex. Sigismund I Carrion

 1431 – 1447

First Edict of Oren. [Copy]

Edginess Restriction Act. [Copy]

Edict of Salvus. [Copy]

Edict of Companion. [Copy]

Gronkkston Pact. [Copy]

Imperial Horen-Goldman Doctrine Acts. [Copy]

Edict of Roselight Island. [Copy]

Second Edict of Oren. [Copy]

Treaty of the Krelmstad. [Copy]

Imperial Proclamation of Abdication. [Copy]

Edict of the Rosemoor. [Copy]

Edict of the Privy Council. [Copy]

V. Emperor St. Peter I Chivay

 1457 – 1463

Edict of the Imperial Viceroy. [Copy]

Books I-III: Laws of the Imperium Tertius. [Copy]

Edict of the Imperial Coercitor. [Copy]

Edict of the Imperial Marshal. [Copy]

Edict of the Imperial Steward. [Copy]

Peace of Siegrad. [Copy]

Disenfranchisement of the Teutonic Order. [Copy]

Kal’Arkon Resolution. [Copy]

Reaffirmed Crimson-Silver Concordat. [Copy]

Decree of Highborn Conscription. [Copy]

Imperial-Urguani War Declaration. [Copy]

Act of Imperial Supremacy. [Copy]

Edict of the Church of the Reformed Communion. [Copy]

Statute and Mandate of House and Imperial Knights. [Copy]

Edict of the Establishment of the High Patriarch. [Copy]

Act of Disaffected Households. [Copy]

VI. Emperor Robert I Chivay

 1463 – 1467

Amendment to the Act of Disaffected Households. [Copy]

Act of Reaffirmation. [Copy]

Act of Bastardized Blood. [Copy]

Establishment of the Commonwealth of Shortwood. [Copy]

Treaty of Thales. [Copy]

Edict of Seventian Dissolution. [Copy]

Laws of Imperial Deviancy. [Copy]

Vizima Act. [Copy]

Council of Eruthos. [Copy]

VII. Emperor Boris I Tobias Carrion

 1467 – 1467

Treaty of the Grand Harvest. [Copy]

Imperial Mandate on Knights. [Copy]

Edict of Aanen. [Copy]

VIII. Emperor St. Tobias I Sigismund Carrion

 1467 – 1480

Imperial Diet. [Copy]

Lynch-Tuvian Act. [Copy]

Edict of the Red Dragon. [Copy]

Act of Restoration. [Copy]

Covenant of Aegis. [Copy]

Social Preservation Acts. [Copy]

Treaty of the Sun’s Smile. [Copy]

Articles of Unification. [Copy]

Treaty of the Grand Harvest. [Copy]

Declaration of Regency. [Copy]

IX. Emperor Alexander I Tobias Carrion

 1480 – 1482

Dissolution of the Holy Orenian Empire. [Copy]

X. Emperor John I Frederick Horen

 1526 – 1547

Proclamation of the Fifth Empire and Demand of Fealty. 1526. [Copy]

Treaty of Erochland. 1527. [Copy]

First Imperial Edict of Felsen. 1527. [Copy]

Imperial Mandate of Naval Licensing. 1528. [Copy]

Treaty of Fenland. 1528. [Copy]

Imperial Mandate of Governance for the Province of Erochland. 1528. [Copy]

Grand Edict of Partition. 1529. [Copy]

Imperial Statement of Solidarity. 1529. [Copy]

Imperial Act of Absolution. 1530. [Copy]

Treaty of Istria. 1531. [Copy]

Imperial Edict of the Princely State of Laurelin. 1531. [Copy]

Diet of Metz. 1532. [Copy]

Declaration of Lorrainian Regency. 1533. [Copy]

Second Diet of Metz. 1534. [Copy]

Dominions of the Realm. 1534. [Copy]

Act of Abjuration. 1535. [Copy]

Treaty of Norland. 1538. [Copy]

Edict of Saltstone. 1539. [Copy]

Declaration of Ekren Allegiance. 1539. [Copy]

Imperial Mandate of Bulwarks. 1539. [Copy]

Imperial Mandate of Imperial Offices and Junior Council. 1539. [Copy]

Treaty of Greywater. 1540. [Copy]

Incorporation of Ban Ard. 1542. [Copy]

Act of Merger. 1543. [Copy]

Treaty of Sutica. 1543. [Copy]

Imperial-Pontifical Edict of Holofernes. 1544. [Copy]

Treaty of Tyravik. 1544. [Copy]

Treaty of Khalestine. 1544. [Copy]

XI. Emperor Bl. John II Sigismund Horen

 1547 – 1568

Peace of West Avar. 1547. [Copy]

Renewal of the Treaty of Sutica. 1547. [Copy]

Treaty of Laurelin. 1548. [Copy]

Act of Dominion. 1548. [Copy]

Act of the Lord Privy Seal. 1548. [Copy]

Act of the High Chamberlain. 1548. [Copy]

Act of the Grand Viceroy. 1549. [Copy]

Act of the Imperial Archchancellor. 1549. [Copy]

Act of the Imperial State Treasurer. 1549. [Copy]

Treaty of Oren and Vandoria. 1551. [Copy]

Diet of Saltstone. 1552. [Copy]

Act of Knighthood. 1555. [Copy]

Pacta Conventa of the Carnati-Courlander Hostilities. 1559. [Copy]

The Holy Orenian Empire’s Code of Laws. 1560. [Copy]

Vandor-Orenian Edict. 1561. [Copy]

Act of the Imperial Spymaster. 1566. [Copy]

Act of Privy Dissolution. 1567. [Copy]

Treaty of Anpalais. 1567. [Copy]

Declaration of Abdication. 1568. [Copy]

XII. Emperor John III Owyn Horen

 1568 – 1585

Treaty of the Silver Branch. 1569. [Copy]

Renewal of the Treaty of Sutica. 1569. [Copy]

Treaty of Godansk. 1570. [Copy]

Imperial Reserve Act. 1571. [Copy]

Citizen Safety Act. 1572. [Copy]

Urguani-Orenian Defensive Pact. 1572. [Copy]

Charter of the Imperial South Seas Company. 1574. [Copy]

Treaty of the Northern Union. 1575. [Copy]

Act of Knighthood. 1576. [Copy]

Ivory Mandate. 1577. [Copy]

Imperial Retiree Program Act. 1579. [Copy]

Act of Governance. 1582. [Copy]

Imperial Mandate of Governance for the City of Metz. 1583. [Copy]

Laurens Statutes. 1585. [Copy]

XIII. Emperor John IV Augustus Horen

 1585 – 1585

N/A

XIV. Emperor Bl. Robert II Henry Horen

 1585 – 1585

Declaration of Abdication. 1585. [Copy]

XV. Emperor Philip I Frederick Horen

 1585 – 1595

Laws of Monsters and Unnatural Anomalies. 1585. [Copy]

Pristine Economy Ordinance Act. 1586. [Copy]

Reformed Tax Code Act. 1586. [Copy]

Edict of the Arcane. 1586. [Copy]

Edict of Fenland. 1587. [Copy]

Authorization Act. 1587. [Copy]

Renewal of the Treaty of Sutica. 1587. [Copy]

Johannesburg Decency Act. 1588. [Copy]

Imperial-Harian Neutrality Act. 1588. [Copy]

The Holy Orenian Empire’s Code of Laws. 1590. [Copy]

Edict of Recall. 1591. [Copy]

Act of Disenfranchisment. 1592. [Copy]

Accords of Johannesburg. 1593. [Copy]

XVI. Emperor John V Frederick Horen

 1614 – 1619

Treaty of Bloater Bay. 1614. [Copy]

Edict of the Sixth Crownlands. 1614. [Copy]

Edict of Harian Inclusion. 1615. [Copy]

Declaration of Regency. 1617. [Copy]

Instrument of Government. 1619. [Copy]

Edict of the Imperial Archchancellor. 1619. [Copy]

Edict of the Seneschal of the Crown. 1619. [Copy]

XVII. Emperor Peter II Sigismund Horen

 1619 – 1636

Edict of Disbandment. 1620. [Copy]

Vimmark Chivalric Reform Edict. 1621. [Copy]

Pact of the Equilibrium. 1621. [Copy]

The Holy Orenian Empire’s Code of Laws. 1621. [Copy]

Declaration of Regency. 1622. [Copy]

Authorization Act. 1622. [Copy]

Justice Act. 1622. [Copy]

Vizima Act. 1623. [Copy]

Imperial Lawsuit Act. 1623. [Copy]

Imperial Dominion Accord. 1623. [Copy]

National Axios Treaty Organization. 1623. [Copy]

Declaration of Harian Fealty. 1625. [Copy]

Imperial Chivalric Reform. 1626. [Copy]

Settlement Act. 1626. [Copy]

Codex Arcana. 1627. [Copy]

Outlawing of Aerial. 1627. [Copy]

Act of Chivalric Punishment. 1627. [Copy]

Justice Reform Act. 1630. [Copy]

Pact of Steel. 1630. [Copy]

Dominion Protectorate Act. 1631. [Copy]

Court Dwarf Act. 1632. [Copy]

XVIII. Emperor John VI Maximillian Horen

 1636 – 1638

N/A

XIX. Emperor Aurelian I Horen

 1678 – 1694

Establishment of the Imperial Arch-Seneschalty. 1678. [Copy]

Imperial Calendar Reform Act. 1679. [Copy]

Imperial Territory Act. 1679. [Copy]

Imperial Colonization Act. 1679. [Copy]

Act of Protectorate. 1681. [Copy]

Santegian Reorganization Act. 1683. [Copy]

Imperial Writ of Banishment: Order of St. Peter. 1684. [Copy]

On Gentlemen’s Quarrels. 1685. [Copy]

On the Subject of Assaults in Carolustadt. 1685. [Copy]

Statute of Carolustadt. 1685. [Copy]

Eternal War Act. 1687. [Copy]

Expulsion of Siegmund. 1693. [Copy]

XX. Emperor Augustus I Horen

 1694 – 1706

Imperial Code of Laws. 1696. [Copy]

Lex Arcana. 1697. [Copy]

Imperial-Sutican 1702 Treaty of Peace. 1702. [Copy]

Appointment and Public Restructuring Act. 1702. [Copy]

Pact of Man and Mali’ker. 1703. [Copy]

Gladewynn-Empire Trade Act. 1703. [Copy]

Parliamentary Reform Act. 1705. [Copy]

XXI. Emperor Antonius I Horen

 1706 – 1715

Crimson Silver Concordat. 1706. [Copy]

Edict of Imperial Outposts and Fortifications. 1708. [Copy]

The Emperor’s Will: Nauzica and Knighthood. 1708. [Copy]

Chivalric Reconstruction Act. 1708. [Copy]

State of Emergency. 1709. [Copy]

Warwick Resolution. 1711. [Copy]

Pact of Dragon and Magi. 1711. [Copy]

Desolation. 1712. [Copy]

Ironaxe Initiative. 1712. [Copy]

Pact of Veridian. 1713. [Copy]

A Return to Dust. 1715. [Copy]

XXII. Emperor Joseph I Horen-Marna

 1715 – 1720

Treaty of the Prikaz. 1715. [Copy]

Treaty of Guise. 1715. [Copy]

Treaty of Vira’ker. 1715. [Copy]

Orenian-Reiver Contract. 1715. [Copy]

Rights, Duties, and Privileges of the Kingdoms of the Holy Orenian Empire. 1715. [Copy]

Treaty of Varoche. 1715. [Copy]

Treaty of Aegrothond. 1715. [Copy]

Pact of Stone and Gold. 1716. [Copy]

Second Treaty of Vira’ker. 1718. [Copy]

Imperial Succession Amendment Act. 1718. [Copy]

XXIII. Emperor Godfrey II Remus Cascadia

 1715 – 1724

Imperium Renatum. 1715. [Copy]

Pact of Stone and Fire. 1716. [Copy]

Tale of Dragon and Bear. 1717. [Copy]

Regarding the Line of John. 1717. [Copy]

Courts of the Dragon. 1717. [Copy]

Precepts of Nobility and Titleage in the Empire of Renatus. 1718. [Copy]

The Holy Orenian Empire’s Code of Laws. 1718. [Copy]

Of Dragons and Eagles. 1718. [Copy]

A Benevolent Union. 1719. [Copy]

The Dragon and the Crow. 1719. [Copy]

Rejoice of Dragons. 1720. [Copy]

Second Chivalric Reconstruction Act. 1720. [Copy]

Renatus-Haense Peace Accord. 1721. [Copy]

On the Passing of Titles Within the Empire. 1721. [Copy]

Reformation of the Holy Orenian Empire. 1721. [Copy]

Declaration of Regency. 1721. [Copy]

Dissolution of the House of Horen. 1721. [Copy]

Pact of the Dragon and the Dove. 1721. [Copy]

Pact of the Dragon and the Phoenix. 1721. [Copy]

Pax Orenia. 1722. [Copy]

Treaty of Iron and Order. 1724. [Copy]

XXIV. Emperor John VII Achilles Cascadia

 1724 – 1726

Imperial Restoration Act. 1724. [Copy]

Letter of Abdication. 1725. [Copy]

The Succession. 1725. [Copy]

XXV. Emperor Alexander II Stephen de Joannes

 1726 – 1731

Treaty of Ves. 1725. [Copy]

Municipal Amnesty Act. 1725. [Copy]

Treaty of Westmarch. 1725. [Copy]

Treaty of Aanen. 1725. [Copy]

Treaty of Vintas. 1725. [Copy]

Treaty of Helena. 1725. [Copy]

City of Helena Corporation Act. 1725. [Copy]

Treaty of Suffonia. 1725. [Copy]

Fenn-Oren-Urguan Peace Treaty. 1725. [Copy]

Age of Majority Act. 1726. [Copy]

Treaty of Kadarsi. 1726. [Copy]

Treaty of Helena. 1727. [Copy]

Imperial Magistrate Act. 1727. [Copy]

Imperial Census and Survey Act. 1728. [Copy]

National Monument Act. 1728. [Copy]

Imperial Calendar Reform Act. 1728. [Copy]

Recruitment Prohibition Act. 1728. [Copy]

Helena Propety and Finances Act. 1728. [Copy]

The Holy Orenian Empire’s Code of Laws. 1728. [Copy]

First Diet of Helena. 1728. [Copy]

Treaty of Helena. 1728. [Copy]

Second Diet of Helena. 1728. [Copy]

Titular Title Creation Prohibition Act. 1728. [Copy]

Vira’ker Accord. 1729. [Copy]

Edict of Reprobate. 1729. [Copy]

Treaty of Temesch. 1729. [Copy]

Treaty of Krugmar. 1730. [Copy]

Noble Adoption Prohibition Act. 1730. [Copy]

Articles of Restructure for the Holy Orenian Empire. 1730. [Copy]

Maritime Registry Edict. 1730. [Copy]

Imperial Military Administration Edict. 1730. [Copy]

Imperial Waterways Edict. 1730. [Copy]

In Defense of the Crownlands. 1731. [Copy]

XXVI. Lord Protector Adrian de Sarkozy

 1731 – 1737

Proclamation of Imperial Interregnum. 1731. [Copy]

Treaty of Morsgrad. 1731. [Copy]

Imperial Rail Act. 1732. [Copy]

Council of State Establishment Edict. 1732. [Copy]

Imperial Courtly Requirement Edicts. 1732. [Copy]

Pact of the Mountain. 1733. [Copy]

Victoria Canal Edict. 1734. [Copy]

Crimson Silver Concordat. 1734. [Copy]

Capital Enforcement Privilege Act. 1734. [Copy]

Treaty of Rubern. 1734. [Copy]

Lex Imperialis. 1735. [Copy]

Amendment to the Establishment of the City of Helena Corporation Edict. 1735. [Copy]

Procedures of Legality. 1735. [Copy]

Fief Management Edict. 1736. [Copy]

Western Alliance. 1736. [Copy]

Edict of Establishment: The Imperial Diet. 1736. [Copy]

Edict of Election: The Imperial Diet. 1736. [Copy]

Senate Committees Act. 1737. [Copy]

XXVII. Emperor Peter III Antonius Helane

 1737 – Present

Instrument of Coronation. 1737. [Copy]

Law of Heirs to the Holy Orenian Empire. 1737. [Copy]

The Imperial Lawbook. 1738. [Copy]

Medical Validation Act. 1738. [Copy]

Basrid Act. 1739. [Copy]

Treaty of Ves. 1739. [Copy]

Judiciary Act. 1740. [Copy]

Treaty of Ves. 1740. [Copy]

Decree of Provisional Governance for the Kingdom of Curonia. 1741. [Copy]

D’Alba Act. 1741. [Copy]

Emergency Resolution Act. 1741. [Copy]

Coppinger Act. 1743. [Copy]

Imperial Employment Opportunities Act. 1743. [Copy]

Imperial State Army Housing Edict. 1746. [Copy]

Helena Proclamation. 1746. [Copy]

Scholastic Organization Act. 1746. [Copy]

Criminal Justice Reform Act. 1746. [Copy]

National Holiday Act. 1747. [Copy]

Imperial Vassal Taxation Act. 1750. [Copy]

Public Record Act. 1751. [Copy]

Imperial Budget Procedure Act. 1751. [Copy]

Treason and Sedition Act. 1751. [Copy]

Napier-Rutledge Act. 1751. [Copy]

Foreign Tobacco and Cacti Prohibition Act. 1751. [Copy]

Helena Municipal Reform Edict. 1752. [Copy]

National Language Act. 1752. [Copy]

Orenian-Elven Peace Accord. 1753. [Copy]

Edict of Settlement. 1756. [Copy]

Imperial Personhood Act. 1756. [Copy]

Shearing Act. 1756. [Copy]

Paddington Act. 1756. [Copy]

Rivaini Act. 1759. [Copy]

Imperial Exchange Program Act. 1759. [Copy]

Campaign Integrity Act. 1759. [Copy]

Oren Revised Code Act. 1759. [Copy]

Treaty of Krugmar. 1759. [Copy]

Treaty of Al-Faiz. 1759. [Copy]

Peace of Talon’s Grotto. 1760. [Copy]

Peace of Novellen. 1760. [Copy]

Treaty of New Magara’Lin. 1760. [Copy]

Golem Ordinance. 1760. [Copy]

Battlements Act. 1760. [Copy]

Amyas Act. 1760. [Copy]

Railroad Act. 1760. [Copy]

Committee Reform Act. 1760. [Copy]

Ratibor Act. 1760. [Copy]

Entrepreneur Act. 1760. [Copy]

Child Labor Act. 1760. [Copy]

Nottingham Ordinance. 1760. [Copy]

Goblin Act. 1762. [Copy]

National Land Survey Act. 1762. [Copy]

Civil Unions Act. 1762. [Copy]

Edict of Resettlement. 1763. [Copy]

Reincorporation Ordinances. 1763. [Copy]

Edict of Reform. 1763. [Copy]

First Northland Resettlement. 1764. [Copy]

Imperial Currency Edict. 1765. [Copy]

Judicial Reform Act. 1765. [Copy]

Infractions Act. 1767. [Copy]

Interior Reformation Edict. 1768. [Copy]

Administrative Ordinances. 1768. [Copy]

Peerage and Property Edict. 1768. [Copy]

Lex Kaedreni. 1769. [Copy]

Fixed Penalty and Policing Act. 1769. [Copy]

Non-Partisan Courts Act. 1769. [Copy]

Municipal Reform Edict. 1769. [Copy]

Leuven Doctrine. 1769. [Copy]

Debts That are Paid. 1772. [Copy]

Evictions Act. 1772. [Copy]

Legal Procedure Act. 1773. [Copy]

Amendment to the Edict of Reform. 1773. [Copy]

Public Neutrality Ordinance. 1774. [Copy]

City of Helena Corporation. 1775. [Copy]

Private Military Organization Act. 1777. [Copy]

Lex Criminalis Reform Act. 1777. [Copy]

Agricultural Revitalization Act. 1777. [Copy]

Imperial Business Funding Act. 1777. [Copy]

Adoptions Act. 1777. [Copy]

Rattington Act. 1777. [Copy]

Act of Bail Bondsman and Enforcement Agent Licensing. 1777. [Copy]

Protecting Our Veterans Act. 1777. [Copy]

Third Lemonade Legal Reforms Act. 1777. [Copy]

Resolution on the Criteria of Petitioners for Peerage. 1778. [Copy]

XXVIII. Appendix of Cases

Crown v. Elendil. 1400s. [Copy]

Crown v. Basileus. 1463. [Copy]

Beelzebub v. Laureh’lin. 1543. [Copy]

Ostavar v. Lorraine. 1550. [Copy]

Crown v. Vyronov. 1747. [Copy]

Crown v. Labdacus. 1749. [Copy]

Helvets v. Helvets. 1750. [Copy]

Crown v. Beautiful. 1754. [Copy]

Crown v. Karoly. 1759. [Copy]

Crown v. Corbish. 1767. [Copy]

Crown v. Lloyd. 1768. [Copy]

Hampton Tea v. Helena. 1769. [Copy]

Bren v. O’Rourke. 1771. [Copy]

D O C T O R A T E 

O N   T H E   S U B J E C T   O F

G E O L O G Y

T H E

P R I N C I P L E S   T H E R E O F

P R I N T E D   I N   H E L E N A

B Y

T H E   N O R T H E R N    

G E O G R A P H I C A L

A C A D E M I C   P R E S S

I N 

A N N O   D O M I N I   MDCCLXXVII

G E O L O G Y,

    Or the study of the earth, is a budding field pioneered by Sir Charles Napier, and now expanded upon by Dr. Edward Napier. It concerns itself with the matters of earth and rock, investigating both the material makeup and design of the earth, as well as the processes by which ‘earth’ comes to be, and the forms that such processes may leave us with. There are many tools by which to investigate these three subjects, but yet still many mysteries and techniques to be discovered.

Materials of the Earth

As with all systems of measurement and classification, there are subdivisions and trees of metrics. The foundational classification is that of   

ROCK

A Rock is any naturally occurring mass of mineral or aggregate matter. All materials are composed of grains, held together in various shapes and patterns. What kind of Rock, and How much of it varies on the method of formation. Over time, Rocks change into different forms in a cyclical manner. This is called the Rock Cycle. Rocks are classified twofold - by composition, and by formation. There are three main groups of rocks, as divided by these classifications.

IGNEOUS

Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling of magma, and are the newest of all formed rocks. When magma from a volcanic breeches the surface, and cools by air or water, it forms extrusive rock, such as basalt. When magma cools inside the earth, within a cavern or such - it forms intrusive rock, the most common of which is granite.

SEDIMENTARY

Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation of fragments of earlier rocks, minerals, and organic materials - or by crystalline precipitates, called sedimentation. This process causes sediments (grains, gravels, and pieces of rock) to settle and accumulate. This sedimentary mat then undergoes compaction and cementation. The source of sediments comes from the weathering of earlier rocks by way of erosion in an area, and then transported  - or deposited by natural methods, such as water, wind, or glacial movement. Sedimentary rocks often contain petrified bones, imprints and other unique ainigmata. Most sedimentary rocks are limestone or Sandstone. All sedimentary rocks form due to the actions of gravity, and are formed originally in a horizontal layer, called strata.

METAMORPHIC

Metamorphic Rocks are formed by any rock type - sedimentary, igneous, or predating metamorphic rock - to different temperatures and pressures to which the original was formed. This is called Metamorphism, a change in form. There are three varieties of metamorphic rock, and all are defined by how the new rocks form. There is magmatic metamorphism - magma heats surrounding rock, warping it and denaturing it into something else. There is pressure metamorphism - when sediments deep underground are driven to metamorphose due to the extreme pressures of the weight of mountains upon them. Then finally, there is a mix - both magma heat and pressure, this is regional metamorphism. Depending on the structure, metamorphic rocks may be divided into two varieties. Textured rocks - with bumps, ridges, or pocks are foliated. All those that are not, and simply smooth are non-foliated. From there, the definitions become more nuanced - Metamorphic rocks are among the most varied and complex type of Rock. There are Schists, Gneisses, Slates, and Phyllites. One of the most Common Metamorphic Rocks is Marble, of which our civilizations have used in great abundance.

Processes of the Earth

    The Earth, as with any other natural system is prone to change, destruction, formation, reduction, and transformation. Our landscape is marked by actions of the water, wind, ice, fire, and living things. Water erodes and breaks apart even the strongest of rocks, as does wind over millions of years - ice too, shrinks and expands, breaking up the earth - and living things may mark it, bury it, stretch and bust it with roots and mats of dirt and weight. By far the most common, and central to the formation of rocks is 

E R O S I O N

Erosion is the process by which soil, rock, and minerals are removed from one location, broken down, and transported to another. It is the chief of all surface geological processes, and the one most relevant to our study at the moment. The breakdown process forms sediments which are critical in forming certain types of rocks. The rates of erosion are controlled by the action of geomorphic factors - such as rainfall, wear in rivers, coastal erosion by the sea and wave, glacial grinding, abrasion, landslides and so forth. The steepness of slopes, the speed of the wind and water, and the makeup of the rocks themselves will all factor into how fast something may erode. There is a secondary factor in the movement of materials and earth:

T E C T O N I C   U P L I F T

Although the mechanics by which the Earth protrudes itself is a mystery - and will likely remain so for centuries, the clear results of the action cannot be denied. By some subterranean process, the earth itself rends up, and pushes material up. This process is most commonly found in jagged mountains, and is most likely responsible for the mountains themselves. Several investigations into areas that have experienced uplift has found that rocks - sedimentary veins in particular may be entirely turned ninety degrees, from a horizontal line to a vertical line. Furthermore, Oceanic petrified remains have been found at the top of mountains, where clearly there never could have been aquatic life.

Formations of the Earth

With the processes of the Earth discussed, the formations are now the focus. A true list of all the formations that may be found on the earth would be beyond the realm of print, several of the most notable examples will be listed, and their cause explained. By far the most common of all formations are those left by the action of erosion. Such formations left by erosion are;

Badlands

Valleys

Cliffs

Mesas

Buttes

Gullys

Ravines

Canyons

Coulees

Hoodoos

Ergs

Water Gaps

Dunes

Mogotes

Arches

Many of the recognizable land features are formed by water action, either recently, or of long ago. Because the settling of rock is rarely uniform - some rocks wear away faster than others, leaving the harder rock in place, and entirely removing the weaker rock, showing us, for example - how an igneous rock formed. With the soft sediments removed, there may be a core of hard, igneous rock - and by looking at its shape and composition, we may determine how it formed inside the original, yet long gone rock. 

The Matter of Age 

    It is a most uncomfortable thing to discuss - but with this research has come an irrefutable discovery. The world, although dated by our Calendars to be Seventeen-hundred and Seventy-Seven years old (at the date of writing) is a mythological fabrication. Using the analysis of Erosion principles, and understanding the process by which rock is formed - although not precisely, an age can be attached to rocks, and geological features. 

Across the land - and previous lands, there have been the most remarkable of all erosion features, mesa canyons. Now if we look at how the process of sedimentary rocks form - it is clear that it is a slow process, that takes time - a nearly immeasurable amount of time. And yet, if one stands at the bottom of the striped mesa - it is clear that there are several hundred, if not thousand layers of differing types of sedimentary material. If one was generous - very generous, and said it took one year to form a 5 millimeters of sedimentary rock - why, a canyon that was 125 feet deep would easily correspond to being at least 7,620 years old. If one was less generous - the answer could be as high as 381,000 years old. Personally, I suspect the latter far more truthful.

Taking this into account - we must then evaluate the rate of erosions upon rocks in riverbeds. Erosion is a slow process, even among sand and dirt, and it will take many years - fifty, or one hundred - for a river to shift course due to cutting into the banks, and collapses. For water to erode a canyon of rock and earth to the rates that have been recorded in history - with some canyons measuring up to three-hundred feet deep, and fifty feet wide - again, if one was generous - would have to have taken up to 17,000 years to erode such a chasm by water action, and possibly much longer. 

Between these two geological discoveries, I find it difficult to find other logical explanations. Both are caused by phenomena we may observe in real time and replicate via experimentation - so they are true, only now applied on a much larger scale. What this means for Theology and our own perspective on the world, that I cannot answer - but what I can say, is there is plenty more mystery buried in the earth - and I encourage others to investigate, research, and publish to add to the slow unraveling of this enigmatic tapestry. 

Letters to former Members of the Imperial Diet and to the Members of the Imperial Everardine College are dispatched throughout the Holy Orenian Empire, delivered by couriers of the Imperial Post:

”TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN,

You are hereby cordially invited to the Third Convocation of the Imperial Association of Saint Everard IV. 

In the meeting we shall debate about the constitutional role of the impeachment process in the Imperial Diet and how it can be improved to offer more guarantees to the impeached government official.

The conclusions of this debate will be communicated to the Basrid Ministry, the Imperial Crown and to the next President of the House of Commons after his election.

Let us pray together to the Lord, our GOD, for an evening of edification and fraternity.

To be held in a Saint Day ((tomorrow at 5pm EST)) within the Gardens of Novellen Palace. Wine and spirits will be provided in the meeting.

Signed,

SIR EDWARD GALBRAITH JD KM SSE

CHANCELLOR OF THE IMPERIAL EVERARDINE COLLEGE”

E D W A R D   N A P I E R , 

D O C T O R    O F    M E D I C I N E 

M A M M A L I A

O R 

T H E    F I R S T   D I V I S I O N   O F

N A T U R E

P E R

C L A S S E S,   O R D E R S,

G E N E R A,    AND    S P E C I E S.

O’ G E N I T O R !

Credo in Spiritum credamus !

ut Genitor, beati eritis nomen eius est auctor !

et dux de omnibus quae creata sunt !

Ille solus fecit, et facit, ac facere omnia !

Principia autem fides, I.

P R I N T E D    I N   H E L E N A 

B Y

T H E   E V E R A R D I N E   C O L L E G E 

   A C A D E M I C   P R E S S 

I N 

A N N O   D O M I N I    MDCCLXXIII

F I R S T    E D I T I O N

1750

S E C O N D    E D I T I O N

1773

T H E  C H A R T S  O F  M A M M A L I A 

All are covered with hair and bear lactating teats for which to nurse their young. In external and internal structure they resemble man: most of them are quadrupeds; and with man, inhabit the surface of the Earth. The largest, though fewest in number, inhabit the ocean.

P R I M A T A

B R U T A

F E R A E

B E S T I A E

G L I R E S

P E C O R A

B E L L U A

C E T A E

PETER MAXIMILIAN,

INDEPENDENT SCHOLAR

ON THE SUBJECT OF 

ASTRONOMY

COMPENDIUM EST STELLAE (1771)

INDEX | INDEX

1 | INDEX | INDEX

2 |INTRODUCTION | PRAEFATIO

3 | STAR LOG | LEX STELLARIS

4-7 | SYMBOLOGY OF THE ARCANE ZODIAC | DE SYMBOLOGY AURICOMUS ORBIS

8-9 | MAPPING HEAVEN | TABULARUM FACIENDARUM CAELUM

10 | ARTISTIC RENDITION OF THE ARCANE ZODIAC | ARTIFEX REDDICONE AURICOMUS ORBIS

INTRODUCTION | PRAEFATIO

The purpose of this compendium is to expand, organize, and document regarding the heavens above. First in the compendium I intend to organize the star by size, color and luminosity for scientific identification and tracking throughout the year.

The next section of the COMPENDIUM STELLA explains the symbology of the zodiac, interactions between the different celestial bodies and other assorted factoids. While there are some religious connotations, I have no intention of creating any religious doctrine out of this, I simply wish to enlighten people of the fictitious interactions of the heavens. 

The next section is composed of different mappings of the heavens. From the basic star map, identifying the stars with names then the next with the constellations. Afterwards the next section is an artistic rendition of the heavens above.

STAR LOG | LEX STELLARIS

1. TOBIAS

   1. SIZE: AVERAGE

   2. COLOR: GOLDEN

   3. LUMINOSITY: 6/10

2. DENIMS

   1. SIZE: AVERAGE

   2. COLOR: GOLDEN

   3. LUMINOSITY: 7/10

3. SIREN’S MAW

   1. SIZE: DWARF

   2. COLOR: RED

   3. LUMINOSITY: 4/10

4. JULIA’S PEAK

   1. SIZE: GREAT 

   2. COLOR: BROWN 

   3. LUMINOSITY: 2/10

5. THE BULWARK

   1. SIZE: GREAT 

   2. COLOR: BROWN-REDDISH

   3. LUMINOSITY: 8/10

6. HOREN’S PROMISE

   1. SIZE: DWARF

   2. COLOR: WHITE

   3. LUMINOSITY: 4/10

7. BARRAMAN’S JEWELS

   1. SIZE: SMALL

   2. COLOR: RED

   3. LUMINOSITY: 6/10

8. MIRTOK

   1. SIZE: GREAT

   2. COLOR: BLUE

   3. LUMINOSITY: 7/10 

9. BRASSHAMMER

   1. SIZE: AVERAGE

   2. COLOR: GOLDEN

   3. LUMINOSITY: 6/10

10. GODFREY’S GIFT

    1. SIZE: GREAT

    2. COLOR: GOLDEN

    3. LUMINOSITY: 7/10

11. ARETHOR

    1. SIZE: DWARF

    2. COLOR: BROWN

    3. LUMINOSITY: 1/10

12. VOID’S VISION

    1. SIZE: GREAT

    2. COLOR: PURPLE

    3. LUMINOSITY: 4/10

13. BRABANT

    1. SIZE: DWARF

    2. COLOR: GOLDEN

    3. LUMINOSITY: 9/10

14. WHITE ROSE

    1. SIZE: GREAT

    2. COLOR: WHITE

    3. LUMINOSITY: 7/10

15. ALPHA DE SOLLA

    1. SIZE: DWARF

    2. COLOR: RED

    3. LUMINOSITY: 6/10

16. LUCIEN’S COMPROMISE

    1. SIZE: AVERAGE

    2. COLOR: WHITE

    3. LUMINOSITY: 5/10

17. CORVUS

    1. SIZE: AVERAGE

    2. COLOR: GOLDEN

    3. LUMINOSITY: 4/10

18. ORACLE

    1. SIZE: GREAT

    2. COLOR: BLUE

    3. LUMINOSITY: 10/10

19. CORPORIS

    1. SIZE: DWARF

    2. COLOR: BROWN

    3. LUMINOSITY: 6/10

SYMBOLOGY OF THE ARCANE ZODIAC | DE SYMBOLOGY AURICOMUS ORBIS

OF MAHARA: THE SIREN 

The Mahara, or the Siren, is one of the seven star signs in the Arcane Zodiac. She is a symbol of Owyn alongside Kitran or the Steed. However she symbolizes the passion and greed which is found within Owynist ideologies. Where Kitran is strong, she is wrathful, where Kitran is adventurous, she is tumultuous. Her envy and passion draw in many. She is under Kitran, enticing those to join in his unyielding conquest of the heavens above.

Majoris Stellaris:

1. TOBIAS - The star Tobias rests in the Mahara, or the Siren’s zodiac. It, alongside the star Denims are two golden star which make the eyes of the Siren. It is said that the stars symbolize the greed of the Siren, so they are aptly named after two of the greatest businessmen in Orenian history.

2. DENIMS - The star Denims rests in the Mahara, or the Siren’s zodiac. It, alongside the star Tobias are two golden stars which make up the eyes of the Siren. It is said that the stars symbolize the greed of the Siren, so they are aptly named after two of the greatest businessmen in Orenian history. 

3. SIREN’S MAW - The star Siren’s Maw rests in the Mahara, or the Siren’s zodiac. It creates the mouth of the Siren. Her hungering mouth always wanting more, never to be satisfied. 

Minoris Stellaris: 

4. JULIA’S PEAK - The brown star of Julia’s peak forms the hair of the Siren. Alongside the other two brown stars in which Julia’s peak centers. Despite the wildness of the hair, there is beauty to be found in chaos and it entices all but the strongest of willed. 

OF NAM: THE BEETLE

The Nam, or the Beetle, is one of the seven star signs in the Arcane Zodiac. It is a symbol of the Exalted Horen. It is eternal and always in the night sky, no matter the time of the year due to its unique position in the heavens. This represents the eternal role that the Exalted Horen will have in humanities fate. It's tough exoskeleton represents the protection of humanity. Always diligent and ready to guard humanity against the mysteries of the Wraith. 

Majoris Stellaris:

5. THE BULWARK - The Bulwark rests in the main body of the Nam, or the Beetle. It is a massive star in the sky, formidable and everlasting it is said to be humanities bulwark from all attacks which may come from the heavens.

Minoris Stellaris: 

6. HOREN’S PROMISE - At the tip of Nam’s horn, where the Bulwark is the shield, Horen’s promise is the speartip. All of the horrors of the cosmos are kept at bay by the protection of Nam’s horn. 

OF BARRAMAN: THE GOLEM

The Barraman, or the Golem, is one of the seven star signs in the Arcane zodiac. A symbol of the Exalted Godfrey. The Barraman zodiac symbolizes the industriousness of the human race. From alchemy to metallurgy, the Barraman is said to have given these gifts to humanity. Carrying a large brass hammer which he used to create the brown star of Arethor. Providing the Lily a safe place to grow and give us Godfrey’s Promise. 

Majoris Stellaris:

7. BARRAMAN’S JEWEL - The Eye of the Golem is a bright red star resting within the Barraman Golem. Its watchful eye looks out for any of those it industrious enough to be granted some of his sacred knowledge.

8. MIRTOK - A large blue star centered in the Barraman golem. Due to Mirtok’s role in engineering innovations of the first empire he is a critical position in the Barraman. Immortalized in the stars for embodying the Barraman spirit, through industry, engineering, and hardwork. 

Minoris Stellaris: 

9. THE BRASS HAMMER - A golden star that creates the flat head of the Golem’s hammer. The hammer in which he uses to create many of the cosmos creations. 

OF ESA: THE LILY

The Esa, or the Lily, is one of the seven stars signs of the Arcane Zodiac. Alongside the Barraman it is a symbol of the Exalted Godfrey. Where the Barraman represents the hardworking men who are required to run the empire. The Lily represents leadership and the gift that a stability humanity provides. Beautiful and exquisite it is perhaps the most beautiful of all the star signs.

Majoris Stellaris:

10. GODFREY’S GIFT - The tip of the lily’s bloom is called Godfrey’s Gift. A beautiful golden star embodies all the best parts of the Lily, the compilation of all the work, culture, and leadership needed to place humanity on its rightful place on top of society. 

11. ARETHOR - Where Godfrey’s gift symbolizes all of the beauty in the empire, its southern and less elegant cousin symbolizes the root of any empire. Bloodshed and war. All things return to the dirt and in certain times of the year, the top of the Lily leaves the sky, leaving only her root and stem. Reminding us all that the blooming flower is but a gift not a promise. 

OF ARSAN: THE WRAITH

The Arsan, or the Wraith, is one of the seven star signs in the Arcane Zodiac. It is a symbol of the Exalted Sigismund. Despite it having many connotations to darker forces itself is not evil. Fear is rooted in the unknown and the Wraith symbolizes all of the cosmos that we may never understand. Mysterious and strategic it influences the world in the strangest ways. 

Majoris Stellaris:

12. VOID’S VISION - A massive purple star, low in light but its light creates the void like mist which makes up the Wraith’s center. It is said that all of the truths of the cosmos can be found by venturing through its portal, but it is also the home of all the universe's horrors. The cosmological horrors are said to be kept within the Void by Horen’s Promise.

Minoris Stellaris: 

13. BARBANT - A smaller but vibrant Golden star off to the side of the wraith. Its intensity provides excellent contrast to the dark and gloomy look of the Wraith, due to its placement in the Wraith it is said to symbolize the birth of new ideas and how through strategy one can create even the brightest of stars.

OF KITRAN: THE STEED

The Kitran, or the Steed, is one of the seven star signs in the Arcane Zodiac. It is a symbol of the Exalted Owyn. Racing across the heavens in search of glory and adventure, its reckless abandon provides a thrill for all participating however due to its nature it can be unwieldy and dangerous. Coming and going from the sky as it races off to find new heavens to conquer much like those who brand themselves Owynists today. It’s most notable aspect is the Road of Roses, the three celestial bodies which make up steed’s head to tail. 

Majoris Stellaris:

14. WHITE ROSE- The White Rose is the epitome of the Kitran at its best. Strong, proud, and organized it leads the Road of Roses. It is the beginning and the standard all of the other bodies wish to achieve. 

15. ALPHA DE SOLA - Alpha de Sola is a smaller star following the White Rose. While powerful in its own right, its passion and jealousy have it chasing the White Rose in the Road of Roses for all eternity. It symbolizes Vibius’s betrayal of the Chivay Emperors, who despite great martial strength fell by the passion of their own men.

Minoris Stellaris: 

16. LUCIEN’S COMPROMISE - A smaller white star. More closely resembling the White Rose in color, but not as intense nor powerful. By sacrificing some of the magnificence it is the final position in the Road of Roses. Calm and steady, it always remains in the sky, even when Kitran is off conquering other heavens. Reminding all that those who claim Owyn as their own are still there.

OF TEPHES: THE ELEPHANT

The Tephes, or the Elephant, is one of the seven star signs in the Arcane Zodiac. It is a symbol of the Exalted Sigismund. It is regal and distant. Still waters run deep and this is very true for the Tephes. It is unchanging, ancient and traditional. On the opposite side of the heaven’s of the Kitran some believe that Tephes is blocking Kitran from circling the cosmos and conquering the heavens. 

Majoris Stellaris:

17. CORVUS  - A bright golden star at the tip of one of Tephes’ trunks. It symbolizes the wealth and regality of Tephes. 

18. THE ORACLE- All knowing and wise, the ancient Tephes has the brightest star in the sky. Seen almost year round, the great blue Oracle is one of the most magnificent celestial bodies. Able to be seen by the naked eye, its impressiveness lends legitimacy to the majesty of the Tephes. 

Minoris Stellaris: 

19. CORPORIS- While the Tephes is majestic and old, this nature also makes it apathetic and lethargic. Wondering if its influence is dead due to its constant presence, it can be forgotten, however all things decay. Even the heavens. 

MAPPING HEAVEN | TABULARUM FACIENDARUM CAELUM

THE STARS AS DRAWN BY PETER MAXIMILLIAN YEAR 1771

The state of the heavens in the year 1771. All distinguishable celestial bodies by the naked eye are named and their role in the Arcane Zodiac listed.

THE CONSTELLATIONS AS DRAWN BY PETER MAXIMLLIAN YEAR 1771

The constellations are drawn over the notable stars, showing the basic shapes of the zodiac. 

THE ZODIAC AS DRAWN BY PETER MAXIMILIAN YEAR 1771

I am a scholar, not an artist, but I attempted my best at creating a visual representation of what the zodiac looks like in the heavens. 

📜 T H E    P E T R I N E    L A U R E L 📜

A N   I M P E R I A L    A W A R D    F O R

E X C E L L E N C E

It is the pleasure of the Imperial Crown and the Ministry of Civil Affairs to, once every four years, award the PETRINE LAUREL for excellence and achievements in a variety of fields. Works may be literary, artistic, scientific or political - but all must be submitted in the form of writing. A book, an anthology of poems, a treatise, an essay, a blueprint or a patent all may be eligible for consideration. The award only applies to subjects of the Orenian Empire. 

🏆

Works considered to be relevant to the cultural theme of the country, progressive, innovative and boundary-pushing are likely to win the Laurel. Alongside the award itself - a golden chalice, and the postnominal P.L - there is a 1500 M prize gifted to the winner. While a award conceived in 1768, the Committee of the Petrine Laurel has chosen several works to be grandfathered in, primarily to serve as an example of quality works in hopes of inspiring future works for the 1772 Laurel and beyond.

R E C I P I E N T S

1740

Otto Cetibor Barrow @yopplwasupxxx

Knowledge of Knowledge

Otto Barrow wrote this extensive treatise on the varied types of knowledge in the 1740s during his tutelage of a young Lord Helena. The missive stands out as exceptionally unique for its time - a flowering for the intellectual tradition that would define a new empire. We often take modern sensibilities for granted, but the state of the empire and continent in the 1740s was a vicious and vulgar one, and to cultivate a higher sense of education among its youth laid a foundation for intellectual pursuits in the future. For carrying on our scholastic tradition through our most uncertain times, the 1740 Petrine Laurel is awarded to Otto Cetibor Barrow.

1744

HIM Peter III @ARCHITECUS

Why We Fight

His Imperial Majesty Peter III personally penned this treatise at the height of the 7th Nordling War in 1744. The context of the era was one of great uncertainty, but through imperial grit and strategy, the fortune of the empire began to turn - whether through the defenses of the Gunner Towers or the daring rescue of the Empress by General Sabari. Our emperor’s defiance against their raids and massacres is encapsulated in his rhetoric, which captures the Orenian spirit and why it inevitably prevailed against the sentiments of his adversary. For capturing the essence of the Nordling War with brilliant rhetoric, the 1744 Petrine Laurel is awarded to HIM Peter III.

1748

His Grace, John d’Arkent, KCHE @BenevolentManacles

Our Ester

Sir John d’Arkent wrote this letter after the most tragic events of Ester Rose’s decapitation by the Chief Godric. An emotional and personal piece, it still reveals a valuable aspect of the 7th Nordling War. For all the national rhetoric and heated pamphleteering and propaganda, this letter shows a true and grim side of war - and its terrible effects on the individual. For showcasing the human tragedy of war and consecrating the martyrdom of an imperial patriot, the 1748 Laurel is awarded to Sir John d’Arkent.

1752

His Excellency, Sir Simon Basrid, KCS @Cracker

The Tapestry of Man

His Excellency, Simon Basrid KCS wrote this summary of humanity coming just after the zenith of the time of troubles and the brutality of the Nordling War began to wind down. Written with firm optimism and rich historical analysis, Basrid put to paper a concept that had long been in the Imperial ethos - the Tapestry of Man, a unifying identity, culture and shared history that those who elected to participate in the tradition of Horen would be rewarded immensely. For pontificating this pivotal concept at such a critical time in history, the 1752 Laurel is awarded to Simon Basrid, KCS. 

1756

Georg Lothar @Piov

I Would have Perished Had I Not Persisted

Georg Lothar wrote this treatise in patronage of a young King Sigismund II revealing the Haeseni perspective of the Nordling war. Mr. Lothar speaks of the separation between the tyrant Nordling leaders, and their hapless peoples, drawn into a conflict they were powerless to stop. He speaks of being wise to our own virtues, and not falling into the actions of those we so bitterly fought. Lastly, he highlights the importance of unity and Empire, ‘One God, One Emperor, One Country’. For this testament to the bond of Empire in Haeseni context, the 1756 Laurel is awarded to Mr. George Lothar.

1760

Franz Nikolai Sarkozic @Nectorist

Dinner at Karlomans

Franz Nikolai Sarkozic wrote this fictional piece as an annotated recording of a heated dinner discussion at a household in Haense, wherein the war, politics, the country and morality were discussed heatedly. Masterfully dictated and written, Dinner at Karloman’s provides a unique insight into personal thoughts and life of the war era. The 1760 Laurel is awarded to Franz Nikolai Sarkozic.

1764

Sir Terrence May, GCM @Piov

Conscience of State

Sir Terrence May, GCM, arguably the greatest politician of the 18th century, consecrated his political legacy in this treatise in 1761 on the subject of the institution of the Senate, a most august wing of our government that has now evolved in the form of the House of Commons. Sir Terrence showcases the great value and power in the empire’s legislative and democratic institutions. For an outstanding review of our democratic spirit and thorough analysis of the institution, the 1764 Laurel is awarded to Sir Terrence May, GCM.

1768

Sir Frederick Armas, KHE IG @Esterlen

Map of the Empire c. 1765

Sir Frederick Armas, KHE, IG, drafted this map in 1765 to best reflect the new political situation following the end of the 7th Nordling War. A masterpiece of design, ethnography and geography, it illustrates the component parts of the Empire with an excellent amount of detail, along with rich descriptions of each region it showcases. For its artistry and utility, the Laurel is awarded to Sir Frederick Armas, KHE.

There will be an awards ceremony for the presentation of the 1768 Laurel to Sir Frederick Armas or a representative of his estate at the Novellen Theatre alongside a brief dinner party. 

(5/28/20 @ 6 PM EST)

All previous winners of the Laurel are invited to attend as well to be commemorated for their work. 

The event is open to the public, and all may attend.

OOC 

If you wish to submit works for the Laurel of the 1768 - 1772 period, please fill out this form. Submissions are only eligible during the four year period.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvYtrclx7quAOlEVVOdf86I-9lPjaHYxocbDQ-hMsBpMBkyQ/viewform

THE THEOLOGY OF

HIGH PONTIFF BL. SIEGMUND I

BOOKS I-VII

A U T H O R E D   B Y   H I G H   P O N T I F F   B L .   S I E G M U N D   I

C O M P I L E D   B Y   J . J .   D E   S A R K O Z Y

I N   C O N J U N C T I O N   W I T H

T H E   I M P E R I A L   A S S O C I A T I O N

((Full credit to @Lolzboi, posting for posterity and ease of access))

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Book I: Concerning GOD

Book II: Concerning Iniquity

Book III: Concerning Faith

Book IV: Concerning Religion

Book V: Concerning Sin

Book VI: Concerning Mortality

Book VII: Concerning Eternity

BOOK I

CONCERNING GOD

[High Priest, St. Everard I of Al’Khazar being guided by the Prophet Owyn to protect the Faith]

    It has come, as it has come over the course of its history, that criticism of the Faith and the questioning of GOD that sinks its roots deep within the earthen body of Humanity resurfaces once again amongst us. Its tendrils snaking within to grasp the very stone foundations by which the whole is upheld upon, its purpose to dislodge, disassociate, and ultimately destroy that which binds we, the humble and pious, together beneath GOD’s great glory and sink us all to the depths of nothingness so that they might glimpse the pleasure of our suffering for even but a brief moment.

    With this plague, which crosses the hearts and minds of both intelligentsia and the masses, the highborn and low, I reach out to you, whether you be of the aforementioned or not, to discuss that which we the Faithful beneath GOD’s Light hold dear in our hearts and keep close in our minds. To discuss by what meaning we have lived, live, and will live upon this mortal plain until our existence here ends through great suffering or otherwise restful peace.

    Thus, with this in mind, I open now to you my thoughts upon the divine, with the intention that perhaps the wisdom of my words may come and ring the bell of truth to those too blind to its presence to perceive it or those too far astray to hear the sound so that they might be guided back to His path once and for all. But let these I mention not be the sole audience with which I engage, for these thoughts are not meant for the few, but for the whole of Humanity and beyond.

Upon the Question of What Is Meant by GOD

    Let me begin my explanation at the beginning, although it is also the end, of that being which we call GOD, or rather to present the initial before the summation, His work known as creation, upon which our ancestors, ourselves, and our children shall forever be home to for so long as we live.

    There is not born a Man, Dwarf, Elf, or even Orc from which the question of creation stays its hand and conceals itself from, for within the primal nature of the descendants exists the fundamental question of what, or rather, who or whom brought the existence of all they know, and see, and live to fruition.

    The question arising most naturally when the youth first looks out and ventures upon the fields, mountains, forests, seas, and skies of the world around them and ponders, perhaps in the most basic of terms, the thought, for whenever we find great beauty, or otherwise pleasure, in a creation we immediately turn our attention to the question of who or what produced it in hopes to garner further understanding, or for a replication of the work.

    So it is that the answer of what created the world is found in a multitude of sources, or more concisely phrased, the beings known as Deities or Gods, which are found in plethora amongst the array of religions that reside upon this mortal plain, for such great beauty must be made by one equally or more prominently above that which is created. Of these religions those Deities they purport to exist have created the world, whether it be made by a Pantheon of many Gods or perhaps a few Gods and their subordinates, or by a singular God which has created all but resides in one.

    With this, we might find the answer to what is meant by GOD, the creator, the lifegiver, the alpha, the ultimate, the benefactor of all existence. But from this, how are we to ascertain that which sets apart the true God or Gods from the false God or Gods?

Upon the Question of How We Know GOD Exists Above All Others

    These Deities, as numerous as they are, are piecemeal in their nature, in that through their own beliefs they leave aside pieces from the whole of creation.

    To the Elven Aspects, for one, industry and man-made, for the lack of a better term, creations are not seen as part of creation, for these Elven Gods only concern themselves with the natural world unchanged and in doing so leave apart from the whole these aspects of creation from their mythos and worship. Or, for yet another example among many that would surely bore you, the Nordengradic God, which only cares for that of the Nordengradic peoples, excluding all others. For he does not spread his Hearth Fire beyond the confines of their realm, and only delves in matters pertaining to that miniscule aspect of creation that is these peoples. Although this shall be delved into at a later time for I do not have the time to dwell upon this matter further, nor does it truly represent the thoughts herein presented.

    So then, to presume these Gods represent what is true and have made the totality of all creation, they would indeed need to embrace all of which they do not embrace, and are thusly incoherent in the teachings they supposedly provide.

    For apart from these Gods through which the majority of the descendants, as well as the various races not descended from the first man and woman, propose to exist, GOD stands singularly and in doing so through his singular presence and word, encompasses all aspects of the world. The Fauna and Flora, the seas and skies, the deepest caves and the highest mountains, the depths of the mind and the expanse of the heart, the very soul to which all descendants bear, even if they do not recognise such a thing themselves, are encompassed by Him and within Him, for He does not dwell within one place but within all places, and does not hold one above the other as these other Gods do.

    And so we might believe, given the nature of the other Gods apart from GOD, that these other Gods are mere creations themselves of a grander God, for a God would surely not be limited in power over creation if they are indeed the creator of creation themselves and would not pursue but one aspect of it continuously out of favour if all aspects were pursued in the beginning to form it.

Upon the Question of the Nature of GOD

    So then, in representation of all there was, and is, and is to be, GOD exists as the whole of His creation and consequently knows of it as an inventor knows of his invention and naturally cares for it as would the same regardless of what aspect might be put through torment at the time.

    We may then, if it is rightful for a mortal to do such, presume that GOD cares for His creation as a mother would her child, guiding it and correcting it across the fabric of the era’s to form what we now briefly know as our plain of existence, the mortal realm. For if GOD did not care for the wellbeing of this plain, then he would surely allow a field torn apart to be left as mud and not see it reborn anew with fresh grasses, and flowers, and animals that remove the existence of such an unpleasant sight, and instead leave it for all eternity as but mud to never again be graced with the foliage it has lost.

    And if GOD is akin to that of a mother tending to her child, we might presume there is a love between creator and creation present. As like a child we beckon out to our surroundings looking for a figure by which to gain love from in times of hardship or distress, and like a mother GOD answers, perhaps not by words but, by the grace of all he has given us so that we might feel His affection albeit detached.

Upon the Nature of GOD's Love

    Yet, even with this detachment present, GOD does not seek solely to love unconditionally His creation, as a mother does not unconditionally love her child or the child their mother. For the use of perceived absence, perceived uncaring, anger, or punishment is of the greatest benefit in teaching ones child right from wrong as a mother does throughout her child's life, so too does GOD engage in these same devices in order to guide His mortal creations upon the right, and just, and pure path.

    From this understanding of the limitations of GOD’s love, to which contesting voices might incorrectly cite as proof of the lack of GOD or even His malevolent nature, in respect to the aforementioned technique of teaching, we can rightfully say that GOD does not truly mean to bring unjust acts, cruel or otherwise, upon those who profess their Faith to Him or those that have wandered from Him. Instead, He merely wishes to press upon us the importance of the guidance which He provides to us, like a mother would do to her unruly son. For the son might not recognise the wisdom in his mother's words at the time of punishment, but may only understand the reasoning of said punishment through the lense of retrospect. Whether it be the following day or the following decade.

Upon the Necessities of GOD

    Thus we must draw from these aspects, those herein observed above, that the true God of Gods, or Creator or Creators as we might dually refer to Him or Them as, must therefore be the creator of all creation itself. Following this, God must be the absolute creator of creation with no peer, for a creator that is co-creator cannot be claimed to be the ultimate God for both creators must have their origins within something more authoritative and thusly powerful than that which is themselves or each other, and cares for His creation through without special preference of favouritism given to one aspect of the whole or another. This caring for creation by GOD must therefore come from a sense of love for His creation, and stewardship of it without abandon or disregard, for as an inventor cares for his invention a creator must therefore care for his creation. Lastly that this love extends itself into the necessary guidance required to keep ones loved one from torment or danger, even if through this guidance punishment must be serviced for not but the reason of betterment of it. So then, from these pieces we find the whole in which we know as the one true GOD, without peer.

BOOK II

CONCERNING INIQUITY

[The slaughter of Saul and the tribe of Horen at the hands of Iblees’ corruption]

    Following my thoughts upon the divine as so inscribed within my previous work, the course naturally flows to the mortal plain, or more precisely, that which binds the mortal plain to GOD. This binding, of course as is only natural, being the fundamental ways by which He interacts and leads those beings capable of reason. I speak, therefore, of my thoughts upon the Faith, or rather Faiths, of the mortal plain, and to what end they might bring through dedication.

    For across this expanse about us, and through time neverending, there have come and gone many Faiths. All of them prospecting to the fundamental questions that recognising a God might bring, and all of them, through no lax effort, pressing that they do indeed have the answers to what questions they bring forward.

    Thus, I shall continue my thoughts fluently as to avoid the unnecessary burden of reiteration and subsequent boredom of you who wish to understand fully what I refer to. And to you who do not read but to find offense or to contest, I say this, read on so that what wisdom I might impart should take root in you and aid you in your venture to the truth of which you have spurned for too long.

Upon the Question of the Necessity of Guidance

    So then, the question would arise, why would a GOD, as authoritative and powerful as He is, not solely reduce all of His creation to that of subservience and complete obedience? For, if He is truly the creator, would He not take offense to those who spurn Him openly or worship others as they would worship Him? Would He not set upon them punishments so dire, or set upon them in the person, that they who wander listlessly without Him be cast to the ground and weep of their ignorance or malevolence? Nay, for to what end do such actions provide? Shall the Creator gift to His creations that which He does not want them to have? But then why gift to His creations will at all?

    We might see that, in His great love, GOD had created intelligent creatures which we see as the animals of the world, so that they might enjoy His creation. For a monkey, or bird, or fish, or wolf might enjoy the base of it, they cannot enjoy the whole or appreciate the nuances which surround them. For this purpose GOD created higher beings, the father and mother, and from them came we the descendants. Yet the higher purpose to which I have given is not necessarily higher, but more broad in itself. The ability to understand, comprehend, and emulate the same creating hand, and due to this He could not limit the abilities of us as He had done to the lesser beings.

Upon the Question of What Is Guidance

    I speak, of course, of the will of which all descendants bear, as they bear a soul, which provides them the freedom of thought, and judgement, and reflection that other creations such as the fish, or the birds, or the wolves of the world do not enjoy. For this freedom of will is what He has provided to His creation so that it may develop as a child would develop, for a mother that locks her child away from all torments and misdeeds does not aid the child, rather, instead she would harm it more so by doing this than perhaps any other action. To deprive the child, which enjoys freedom of will as we all do, from these things is to shackle and chain them from all beauty, and deprive from them a fulfilling life to which they were created to fulfill.

    Through this, GOD not only created all of creation in the physical, but He also chose to create the moral, or in essence the dichromatic existence of good and evil should it be boiled down to such basic concepts, within this freedom of will. A second gift so profound that all cultures, peoples, and societies have, for the entirety of our combined history, observed and rendered them to be so true that they make-up the very foundation of all we know socially. That being the hierarchical structure of our families, societies, governments, of our various religions, and of the way we perceive actions taken by individuals or groups.

    Thereby, through His will, we have been gifted the first and most unrefined guidance from GOD, proving that, as with all creation, He does indeed care for us as He does the rest of His creation and therefore affirms himself to the concepts proposed in my first work. Thusly, once again affirming His position as GOD.

Upon the Question of What Is Meant by Faith

    Further to this, through the gift of morality, His creations, which would be the first man and woman, were given divine guidance in the earliest of days by GOD, as recorded in multiple sources upon the matter, and thus the foundation of the lens by which we see morality was established. Even further to this, with the coming of the sons named Malin, Urguan, Krug, and Horen, GOD set about, as well as the first man and woman, teaching the youths that came afterwards of these same moralities, again recorded in multiple sources.

    From these teachings, we now see the formation of the first faith present itself. That being, the faith in GOD and His judgements. Of course, in these early days, the idea of faith had not been fully formed, nor even articulated amongst the parents nor the children. All believed equally and wholly in the presence of GOD, and His will, and His creation without contest, or conjecture, or disinterest. However, none knew of this faith that now existed and so could not therefore foresee what the lack of this new faith would bring.

    So then we find that, as long lasting and fundamentally true as the concept of creation, the concept of faith too shares in our combined history as descendants of these first beings. That being the uncontested truth of there being a GOD, as a child would not contest the existence of their mother, as prevalent and as uncontested as the truth of there being creation.

    And so furthering to this understanding we can attribute faith to be the concept of guidance provided from GOD, for His judgments are those of guiding us towards a goodness that no other can, and the belief in the goodness of those judgements presenting themselves as the aforementioned idea.

Upon the Refinement of the Question of Faith

    With Faith thusly being that of the belief in judgements made by GOD, we can therefore expand this to the happenings that follow the sons Malin, Urguan, Krug, and Horen, to whom all descendants attribute their lineages, in order to refine what it is. I speak  then of the treachery of Iblees to GOD, a creation of GOD that, through the freedom of will gifted to him, rose up against Him in the effort to corrupt and destroy creation entirely. Now, to fully understand the implications of this, we must discuss that which I have put aside earlier, that being what the lack of faith would bring.

    To begin in this thought, however, the framing of the question is to be set in place. What does a lack of faith entail? The disbelief or disregard of GOD’s judgements? If that is so, then it would exclude from it the truthfulness that one may be lead astray. So then, perhaps a lack of faith is the inability to discern the truth from the untruth and subsequently lose the judgement passed down by GOD? Or, to further this question, a lack of faith is the inability to believe, discern, accept, apply, or all these together that which is GOD’s judgment. To be unable to believe in GOD’s judgement fully, discern GOD’s judgement from simply the word of one who is not GOD, accept GOD’s judgement easily, apply GOD’s judgement as it is handed down, or do these things in unison if it is necessary, to be the most clear in my meaning.

    With this, we may delve further into the question of the lack of faith among the four brothers in regards to Iblees’ sown corruptions against GOD within them, or more precisely the nature by which this lack of faith might define for us what is faith through the application of what it is not.

Upon the Question of Faith Regarding Lack of Faith

    We therefore begin in the time following GOD’s call for the first man and woman to join Him among the skies, apart from their children. The four sons now left isolated from their teachers, and so are left only with what was passed down, a parable to how we currently reside in this world, and to continue the teaching and adherence thereof.

“So the Lord was pleased to lay His favor upon the sons of His first man and woman, and He called the pair forth to reside in Sixth Sky and give the World over to the dominion of the Sons.” - Godfrey 1:14

    Following this absence, it is written in the sources from these early days that the sons soon began to drift from the teachings passed down to them. Their attentions diverted to those of the mortal realm in which they now dwelt entirely apart from their parents, their attentions taken from the common discussion with GOD to more earthly matters among themselves. The first most prevalent, depending on the source yet all agree upon the premise, the four sons separated, drifting apart to live apart among their own tribes, these tribes later being the four descendant races, but that is of no importance now, with each taking to themselves their own lands, and titles, and customs.

    From this we know the lack of faith, the lack of belief, discernment, and acceptance of judgement, was prevalent amongst all the sons people. To Malin in the forests, Urguan in the caverns, Krug in the deserts, and Horen in the plains, came forth Iblees and his corruptions, yet it is only Horen to which the absence of GOD did ring loudly to him and to which he sought for willingly.

    Yet, through his will to rejoin GOD, Horen did leave his tribe unguarded from the corruptions of Iblees, unlike his brothers who were corrupted easily by the deceiver themselves, for they had lost sight of GOD’s judgements, and warnings, and teachings that were passed down to them. In short of form Malin, Urguan, Krug, and the tribe of Horen lost faith.

    From this lost faith, or lack thereof, came the inevitable disaster that befell the three brother and the tribe of Horen, these being the weakening of Malin and his people, and Urguan and his people, and the kinslaying of Krug and his people, for at this time all tribes are as the brothers, and the deceiving of Saul within the tribe of Horen.

    First came the corruptions of GOD’s judgements, the corruption of faith itself through acceptance. The three brothers and their tribes falling to revelry and laziness, laying with one another freely, and holding these corruptions of GOD’s judgements as the proper form of them, as written in the histories for they had no will to accept the judgements as passed to them and so instead chose to rework that which GOD had made for their own benefit.

    Second came the corruptions of GOD’s judgements through discernment. For each of the brothers and the tribe of Horen could not tell apart the word of mortal men from that of GOD, and so did bring forth the word of mortal men as equal word to that of GOD.

    Third came the corruptions of GOD’s applications, for as with the lack of acceptance and discernment of the judgements, so too did the three brothers and the tribe of Horen fall away from the proper application of such. This resulting in the loss of adherence to His word entirely and the leading of these first peoples from His path.

    Fourth came the corruptions of GOD’s faith through belief. For without the acceptance, nor the discernment, nor the application intact, there was nothing to correct the falsity that manifested itself within the fundamental belief. So then, if one does not accept the judgements of GOD and seeks to change them, and cannot discern these changes in judgements from the original, nor the application of those judgements and so changes them too, there can be nothing left of belief for to what does one then attribute to believe if they have rejected all the wisdoms given to them in that regard?

    And so, we know that Faith therefore must represent these four devices. Those of Belief, Discernment, Acceptance, and Application of GOD’s judgements wholly, truthfully, and without question, or favouritism, or modification.

Upon the Question of Faith Regarding the Fruits of Lack of Faith

    And so we see that the lack of faith spread across the siblings and tribes easily through the corruptions of these devices, for none had safeguard against them save for Horen who gave Julia, his wife, the understanding to watch for and prevent these corruption. Yet, even with this safeguard, her reclusion to her tabernacle permitted Saul, who came with the offerings of Iblees to Horen's tribe, to spread the corruptions throughout her tribe, so much so that upon Horen’s return he found his own people as troubled as he had known they would be with Iblees’ words.

    Then what became of those of Horen's tribe who bathed in sin and coveted falsity jealously? What became of those men, and women, and children from which took the chalice of Saul and drank the wine of Iblees?

    For upon Horen's return to the camp, having found GOD and being gifted upon him His blessing, with himself glowing with the holiness of his anointment, these people he once could touch, could no longer touch him. And from him they sank away, and when Horen entered the tabernacle where his wife was tending to their children to speak, and upon his return to the masses he found them laying next to Saul upon the ground. For their sin, and iniquity, and falsity had led them to slaughter one another, the ground stained red with the blood of the corrupted.

    Then what became of those of Malin, and Urguan, and Krug who participated with their tribes in sin and coveted falsity jealously?

    To Malin, the oldest of the brothers, along with his people, the corruptions of Iblees gave them sterility, so that their number would forever be overshadowed with extinction. To Urguan, the second oldest of the brothers, along with his people, the corruptions of Iblees gave to them short, squalid, and ugly demeanours, so that they could not stand as equals among their brothers. To Krug, the second youngest, along with his people, the corruptions of Iblees gave them tusks in place of teeth, corrupted their very flesh to strange colours, and gave them a stature to match their insatiable bloodlust.

Upon the Question of Lack of Faith

    From this knowledge then, we see that the lack of faith is to be chained to that which leads only to ruin. To cast aside the lifegiving truth of GOD, to remove from yourself the belief, and discernment, and acceptance, and application of His word, to submit yourself to the ultimate torture and death of yourself both through physicality and through your spiritual being, the soul you once bore purely. The lack of Faith being both the defining, and the limiting of your being, and your existence, and your accomplishments. Through this lack of Faith, the unbeliever has no standard, no guidance, and ultimately no conviction in their beliefs but for the conviction that they shall benefit from the lie they perpetuate upon themselves and others. And with it, no ability to hold themselves accountable for the wretchedness they bring upon themselves, for the wretchedness is all they have, and will know.

BOOK III

CONCERNING FAITH

[The Baptism of High Pontiff, St. Daniel I]

    Within this book I shall be continuing my thoughts upon Faith, with this iteration concerning itself wholly with the fundamental goodness found within it, as opposed to my previous work which explored the lack of it. So, with as little further explanation of its contents will provide, I shan’t bore you anymore with my explanation of this book, and shall begin where I had left myself.

Upon the Question of Faith Regarding What is Faith

    With this understanding of what the lack of Faith entails, and encompasses, and is, we then move on to that which is left. The leavings being, through the discernment of what it is not, Faith. For if the lack of Faith is defined as the absence of belief, and discernment, and acceptance, and application, then the Faith would be defined as the presence of these things wholly, completely, and without modification.

Upon the Question of the Meaning of Faith

    So then, as naturally as the question arises when discussing the topic, what is to be the benefits of upholding GOD’s teachings above any other mortal or false deities, if not but to preserve one’s self from punishment, as the most forceful of corrections, at the hands of GOD? This being the inverse to the previously explored question regarding the fruits of lack of Faith, yet also as equally flawed. For it is not the punishment from which we remove ourselves from, for the punishment is but only a guidance to the truth, but the goodness of life, and its fulfillment with GOD. So to cower as a dog would do from a brutal, and cruel master when the question of faith arises is to cower from one's own salvation, with any actions done in fear of suffering being numb to the reasoning of why they are done in the first place. For it is not out of cruelty, or malice, or enjoyment of suffering that GOD passed down His judgements to us, but out of love for us so that we might grow within His gardens of creation, and protect it as He has done to us. So with a heart of fear one cannot truly hope to follow the path of GOD, for they have already been led astray.

Upon the Question of Faith Regarding the Fruits of Faith

    With this framing of GOD's love, we might then move to that which is the subsequent joyous celebration of our Faith upon this earth. Glorious is He, for although the corruptions I spoke of are true to each descendant race, for even through the hardships given to us by Iblees’ and his corruptions, we find our savior in GOD ultimately through Faith. It is He that, upon the ending war with Iblees and the casting of him down from this plain, saw what Iblees had cursed us with, and it is He that alleviated those curses with gifts of His own.

“So Aeriel came among them, and by GOD’s will the brothers were alleviated of the pains of their imperfections. And thus Krug’s wrath was tempered with honor, Malin’s impotency with sanctuary, and Urguan’s greed with strength of will. But at the command of GOD, Aeriel did not alleviate Horen’s pain. For to Horen, the Lord promised the Skies.” - Godfrey 2:16

    To Malin and his tribe, he gave them sanctuary in the form of the grottoes and lifegiving abilities they enjoy within their realms. The tending to the plants and the animals with masterful ability, so that they might know of the parenthood they had been stripped of.

    To Urguan and his tribe, he gave them the strength of will each one carries. For even with their physical bodies reduced to those of the other descendants, they know not shame, nor sadness, and instead carry themselves and their brethren with great pride. Pride with which the people of Urguan carry into all things of their race.

    To Krug and his tribe, he gave them honour. For although they seem as brutish and backwards as any among the descendants, through honour they bind themselves together, and through honour they carry themselves from wallowing in the pits of blood and piss they fight within to greater achievements.

    To Horen and his tribe, he gave them the Seven Skies. For although humanity may suffer upon this earth with their curses, bleed and die in thousands in their wars, they shan't know of great fear so long as they know of GOD and what awaits them once their pain is ended.

Upon the Question of GOD's Gifts

    Yet even with gifts such as these, most tangible and beneficial, some would question why GOD did not simply remove the curses of Iblees and cast them down with him. For what purpose did GOD see fit to leave these curses upon our combined flesh forever?

    To understand this, perhaps we must reflect upon the origins of the descendants in regards to Faith, or rather, the lack of Faith. For in a time when there were no curses, when the tribes lived, and loved, and were loved without suffering, or trouble, or hardship, what happened to each? In places of their choosing, with the bounties of all GOD's creation surrounding them, with no wants, or needs unmet, what occurred?

    For if it was not out of unrest, or displeasure, or some other feeling that the descendants were tempted by Iblees, then perhaps it was out of thought to ease what little pain they may have endured. Or perhaps to increase the pleasures they already knew, and enjoyed to feverish levels of indulgence. All of these perhaps led the descendants astray in those early times, or perhaps some other reason, but nonetheless they were led astray and paid in blood for their transgressions against Faith in GOD's judgements.

    And so, with this knowledge of their own transgressions being as quickly forgotten as the food they have eaten, or of a wrong they have done another to save their face in their own eyes, perhaps GOD did see fit to leave those marks of iniquity upon His peoples so that, should they think to forget His word, they might be reminded to the cost of what they wish to delve themselves once again into simply by looking upon one another and themselves. The ultimate, tangible, real, undeniable truth of these corruptions and what their fruits will forever be.

Upon the Question of Faith Regarding its Entirety

    And so, as we have delved to understand, that which we most commonly refer to as Faith is the guiding hand of GOD, gifted to us so that we may be led upon the righteous, and good path.

From this, we take its devices, those of Belief, Discernment, Acceptance, Application. From them, we understand how each creates the whole, and acts as safeguard for the others.

    We understand the fruits of lack of this Faith, the detractions of inequity, the curses we suffer from, the ultimate pain we have.

    And we understand the fruits of this Faith, the salvations we garner, the gifts we have, the ultimate salvation from earthly discomforts.

    Finally, we postulate upon the retention of our curses at the hands of Iblees, and to what end they service ourselves in reminding us in the physical of each day what it is we work to overcome through faithfulness to GOD.

    With these thoughts bearing upon us, we then might understand that which we colloquially refer to as Faith in its most rudimentary form, and might yet seek to further refine its principles and doctrines with which we of the current age live to uphold. Those doctrines and principles being the foundations from which religion is built upon as a whole.

BOOK IV

CONCERNING RELIGION

[Saint Jude of Cyranium giving a sermon to the Orcs, before their mass conversion]