The Monarch Wears The Crown No Longer

[JuliusAakerlund 2402]

 

Post Music

The Monarch Wears The Crown No Longer

Life is not a bed of roses

 

Through shallow cracks, he peered past the petering curtain of light, his eyes coming to a reluctant open. Within semi-youthful smoothness, lingered streaks of wrinkles and wizened vestiges upon his countenance, curving beneath his eyes and in the nooks between nose and cheek. The Koeng’s hair a well trimmed mane, bushy brows and beard cast in an array of raven black-plumes. With a slinking of the arm and his hand trailing as it cast a slow image in sight, an uneven, estranged emptiness lingering between the mattress’s bed sheets. Robert could almost feel the presence of the one once beside him, that which had been there for so long but no longer was. Eyes drawn wise by the years coming to a slight close, almost drowning in the illusion of hope before prying themselves open yet again.

 

“Another day be warmed by sunlight, yet this room feels cold and old.” Words twisted past his lips in uncanny normality, hand drawn to the bedside as his body heaved upwards with his legs drawn towards the edge. At the door came a knock of need, with slight adjustment to his attire, his ears could almost catch the words of his beloved past.

 

“If you walk out looking like that Rob you’d embarrass me.” Yet the feminine words were not followed by the tender hands which had him always cared for, hands which comforted his soul, mind, and heart. In the slight profused moment, sounds cracked past the creak of the door.

 

“Your Majesty, you must take care to robe properly for the court and councillors.” Conveyed Lorin whilst drawing out tub of water to bathe the King as recently had become the norm. Amidst these daily rituals.

 

Robert broke past his reverie, gaze lingering for a few moments before his throat expelled a snort and croak. “The court and councillors haven’t the time to wait for a long winded bath, I have much to do,” Before he could finish his sentence, the string of words came to an end as he walked towards the door, Lorin left behind him as he froze for a moment in thought. “I have much to do. . .” He half repeated in his mind as he cast a hawkish gaze in passing past the royal offsprings balconies, his Nataya slept in as she often did and not there to greet him. Whilst his son was ever locked away in mourning, only greeting him ever so often when he found the time to visit. Whilst Anastasya sat and read in the far corner of the gazebo, her way of coming to terms with matters of sorrow. It reminded him of. . .

 

Before slight moisture was denied to gather in his eyes, a hard right brought him to through doors and into chambers with gathered officials. With his presence he was approached by many, there were the Lords which forever asked about land distribution, matters of artisan trade and mercantile tariffs. The people and fairfolk of Reza which conveyed their hopes, plans and enquiries. Not to mention the fair share of men and women whom sought glory and prestige, hoping for grander positions amongst their peers and partners. Yet even the people whom had for long warmed his heart was now unable, tasks which had once been found enjoyable was now mute and cold to him. Whilst his words were spoken like whispers, they dampened as he was absorbed and yet again consumed by thought. Through muddleness and fogged fantasies chirped a sentence like no other.

 

“Uncle!” A brash yet oddly heart warming voice cried, as though brushed aside the fog parted and clarity returned to him.

 

“Aleksandra? My niece, what brings you here so early in the morning?” He called, stoic steps following his words as he waltzed towards the far end of the rose room, where stairs lead past to the upper floors, a lass in her early prime stood straight.

 

“I came to see you of course! You’re my favourite uncle after all.” The playful words were laced with some warranted wittiness. Roberts lips turned up from their muted line and curled into a somber yet light smile. His right hand came to his pocket where a pebble carved with a selective cast of horridly written words, perhaps the young lass before him had forgotten. . . but he had not. Will there be a day she remembers? He thought to himself, while fingers curled over the all too familiar surface long since smoothed out. It one of the few fragments which kept him hopeful in harrowing times or dreadful doubts.

 

“Why are you so silent, uncle? Why’s your hand in your pocket?” The young woman asked in two quick spurts with intrigue, brows coming to a gentle curve.

 

“You’ll know when it matters.” He half chuckled out, lips coming to a slight smirk. “Now little gem, would you join me for breakfast? It seems i’ve a lack of company.” His words brimmed with irony, though noteworthy was the unhidden lonely sadness that loomed within them. With a slight drooping of the mouth, frowning and eyes softened with sadness, the young woman walked forward to take her uncle’s hand. “What’s gotten into you girl? I just asked you to breakfast, no need to hold hands! You’re not a child anymore.” Jesting and slightly teasing, it was the best he could muster to uplift the mood.

 

But the woman’s hand only tightened as she let out an unladylike snort, words strewn out in a harking croak. “I can take care of myself, your hand just looked hurt okay? I was just making sure it isn’t injured.” Her protest a secretly sweet sanction amidst his days of emotional unrest. He steps towards the oaken door, carved and canvassed by well painted decor, up the steps and through the hallowed halls -- they both then came to a subtle seat. In the back of the feast hall could be heard the bustling and shuffling of various tools of the cooking trade, metal against metal and the snapping, pop and crackle of an open flame. In Between the commotion came shouts quite sharp and commanding.

 

“You’s best not mess up ‘es Majesties Orecchiette ai Cime di Rapa, if only ol’ Tidwald was ‘ere at least ‘e was twice less muto than you’s due!” As Fabio clanged his fork and knife against each other to make his presence known, Robert habitually leaned back into the comfortable seat at the head of the table. Aleksandra sat to his left as the three noteworthy seats to his right remained empty, his eyes lingering on them for a moment wistfully.

 

“Un. . .! Uncl. . .! Uncle!” In his absent minded state Aleksandra nudged in words repeatedly as it droned into his drums.

 

Turning to face her, his muted expression secretively brightening before it could be made out by her. “I was just distracted, I seem to be terrible company this morning. . .” His words were two fold, though their meaning left to be aired and interpreted openly.

 

Before things could be contemplated further the kitchen door slammed open, two stubby and fat cooks practically rolling into the hall with a hard handed Fabio at their back. “I mus’ excuse ‘em your Majesty, they’s new to tha’ job an’ haven’ learned ‘nough yet!” While the ilatian spoke he served the main dish extravagantly in a well trained manner, two cooks stumbling to make theirs semi-representable while the chef threw them a shiver inducing gaze.

 

“No trouble Fabio, if I were to ever have to eat a last meal yours would forever satisfy me.” The King shot back amiably, lips settled for a moment as he questioned further. “What has become of Tidwald? Has the Grand Elder not seemed it fit to prepare me my tea? Without it, it’d not truly be able to wake.”

 

“You haven’t ‘eard tha’ news your Maj?” Fabio asked with a heavy gulp, chef’s hat brought from his head to his heart. “Passed this mornin’, tried to stir him awake with an’ order but he wouldn’t move! Real shame, that ol’ man had gusto! An for some reason ‘is boots were missin’!” Lips downturned and eyes more heavy, Robert simply nodded as an exasperated sigh escaped him. The cook beside him had served a replacement of tea, eyes cast at the middle aged King in hope of approval. Yet the bland, tepid and grayed surface invited not the senses nor did it hold the heart heating sincerity that the elder mustered.

 

“Thank you Fabio, we’ll eat in peace and i’m certain you’ll wrangled the replacements into shape soon enough. That I am certain of my old friend and confidante.” Whacking the two cooks across their heads with his hat, hands twisting it back into place as Fabio herded the trainee’s to the kitchen.

 

“Rats, two rats, they’re large, whiny rats,” Aleksandra asserted out sharply, sticking out a tongue at the cooks as they were herded off by their shepherd.

 

“What are you then? The toad that croaks to disturb the peace of the forest?” Robert shot back with a smirk, knowing full well it’d annoy the lady.

 

“I’m not, nuhu, you’re a toad not me.” She returned childishly, though by now this little game of theirs was a ritual they both played into. While their eyes cast each other a deep glare it took not long until they both broke into laughter.

 

“I’ll let you have this last victory, at least then you won’t say I was unfair.” Humming out the words the shuffle of utensils followed suit, plates clammered and appetizers approached. With food chewed and a precise pause, almost as though by greater forces eyes were lead to the open balcony to his right. In its light stood a figure, eyes yet not eyes, a face yet not a face, robes but no truly. It was all obscure, yet it was all so starkly real. At first his back straightened sharply, oddly he felt a looming threat yet also a subtle beconning.

 

What might it be? Who might it be? Why? He questioned himself, its feet was not visible yet the senses told him it was alright, that it was meant to be so and that nothing was out of order. If anything. . . there was a sense of order? But how could it be? Something so. . . unorderly? Yet it made sense? Or at least his senses whomst had never betrayed him made such clear.

 

“Uncle! What are you looking at?” Aleksandra called, fork and knife at a standstill on her plate.

 

“I’m not entirely certain my ch. . niece.” He calmly responded and corrected amidst  his sentence, whilst eyes were forced to turn away from the beconning figure. There was almost an invisible tether between the two, something that bound them together or had them interlinked. “How is your husband? Is he treating you well I hope?” The old Patriarch mustered the words between his gravely perturbed state.

 

“Alright, I guess. So boring, he had to go and get sick. . . It’s really annoying. I had to cook for him, ugh.” Though she grumbled, by the sweetness of her voice and lightening of her features, she was clearly within a bittersweet state. Not all too surprising, as she had lost many as of recent, Robert thought to himself and was once again reminded of what he himself had lost.

 

“Good, make certain you hold onto him tightly and give him all you have if you believe him worthy. Else when it’s too late you might regret, while waiting is possible it is also excruciating. . . remember to do your best to be there for not only him but yourself. If not also for your children, or was it little rats you said last we spoke?” Muttering his last words the scene faded into a round of bickering, the day passing ever so steadily a few hours towards midday. The sun remained hanging high in the sky and the wind wafts in a placating breeze. .

 

 

Standing at the shoreline of Grayhill, with Lake Liza by its flank the wild grass and rolling hilly landscape rising in the distance. With eyes cast towards Reza proper, he could only think of Lake Ober laying on the other side. The two Lakes cradled the city and kept it fertile for the folk, it was two lovers whomst forever guarded it, its founders as well as its family. One the former Queen and the other the current King. . . yet both could not traverse enough land to meet. It all symbolized his current state, only time could amend the gap between the two. While in a drowse the monarch returned. The Prikaz opened to him and yet inside none of his issue came to greet him, while settled in his room he sat in his comfortable chair. “I am old it’d seem, the young ones have better things to tend to than this forgotten fogey.” Letting out a self deprecating chuckle, he peered over the pages of an opened book layed unfinished on the table top. One side filled with well written letters of both common and marian make. “I’ll have to leave them with something more, what if I wouldn’t be here when they need me the most? I might not have much to offer, but i’ll make due with what I am able.” Writing eloquently and with great care, wrinkled fingers danced along parchment.

 

“Rob, aren’t you ever going to put down that book and just relax? Haven’t you done enough already?” The all too familiar feminine voice whispered yet it didn’t, it was the echoes of his emotions taking on form in his wifes vessel.

 

“Not yet, not yet my love. . . they need me still I mustn't depart at least not till the book is finished.” He groaned as he had many a day in the last year, while his children mourned he managed a multitude of work and tended to the courts. His eyes often grew wet, yet never once did his tears flow freely as if though they were reluctant to accept reality, as if their presence was all but a sign of her actual passing. While he wrote, a figure forever loomed within the room -- he could feel it as it could feel him. Yet the book had him preoccupied, an diversion from his reality.

 

“I wonder, will I be remembered? Eliza always did ask so and I had never cared, yet she always willed to not be forgotten. .” Half smiling at his own words, a spot of ink sploshed and pained the book’s pages, forever marking it. “Why does it matter? I never cared for glory, prestige and power, before GOD it’s all superficial anyhow. I merely hope my happiness would have helped others, that my kin and kith be cared for.” As he was lost in thought, fingers remained a dance upon the patch of paper. Absentmindedly fingers curled to turn the page ever so often, eyes slightly unfocused and mind teetering between various questions as he had always been inquisitive. Eventually his curled finger came to a stop, a thud as his finger brushed across the hardened and hewn cover. His gaze came to a focus and mind steeped in an odd frozen feeling, he had finished it? Casting a look over the last letters he read back to himself in near disbelief. “The Monarch Wears The Crown No Longer, His Son Left to Ponder?” His hoarse throat tuned out emotionally, before he had time to adjust the door barged agape.

 

It was three, he had not eaten since breakfast and in the last year no one had barged into his room even once. Yet there in the doorway with a whining whirl the door came to a close as a young woman stood steady. She brushes within the dim-lighted room, peering about for an instance until her gaze perpetuates unto Robert. “Uncle ‘bert.” Aleksandra issued him a tersely-lasting smile, seating herself across from him.

 

“Aye..” Robert mumbled out in clear exhaustion and slight confusion, dark bags puffing beneath his eyes and slightly wrinkled skin. “What brings you to this old bag of bones? I can’t say i’ve had many visitors as of late, though you seem to be the exception. Perhaps the others expect an early end.”

 

The girl propped her hands onto the table while speaking. “Because you’re my favorite old bag of bones.” She tuts sternly, chin drooping pensively as her leftmost palm extends across the table. “You know I love you uncle, da? You’re like a papej to me. And it’s been a while since we’ve talked seriously.” Upon surveying his maturing features. Tears begin to line her eyelids -- suppressing a frown.

 

Robert placed a strong yet wrinkled hand onto her own, lips turning into a small and softened smile. “Course, i’ve… missed some more familial interaction.” Bringing in a sharp inhale, his eyes came to a heavy close for a longer than usual moment. “Especially not since…”

 

She bobbed her head cavantly to his statement, her posture stiffening in suit. “Since Eliza..” Expelling a drawn-out exhale. “The.. the ***** that did that to her ‘bert.. I’ll have his head.”

 

Robert’s eyes came to a open as his lips seeped in unhidden sorrow. “You’ve always reminded me of her, just as defiant and you’ve the brashness she kept in her youth….”

 

“I hope to become half the woman Eliza’ was.” Aleksandra conveyed a fleeting smile over her lips, ladened with regret and woe. After a moment, she’d clench his palm -- craning further from her seat to regard him. “Don’t.. Don’t..” The young woman pauses, her voice fractured by a quaver. “Don’t.. Give up, papej.” Whilst her words didn’t fail to draw him in, something else beconned more strongly by his side, robed and in all its splendor still the figure stood straight and steadfast. Robert’s eyes seemed distant and expression muted as lips thinned into a line. The long robe walked towards him, whiter than white hand so pure white could not describe it was placed upon his shoulder. In that moment he could make out wings which had just prior been obscured, hair bequeathed by a godly light. In that moment he knew it was death, in the last year he had tried to hide the fact from himself. The looming ever weakening heart of his, his rest taking forever longer each passing day and his waking hours shorter than before. With eyes he motioned for the angel to sit, returning his gaze to the sobbing woman. Her eyes having remained fixated on the husk like figure of the formerly energetic King -- tears etching rosy streaks down her complexion. She’d rise, her palm remaining intertwined with his. “I love you, ‘bert. Carry that.. Carry that with you, da?” His free hand extended as he raised to reach from his seat to wipe away her tears. On his lips a slight smile formed as he once again came to a sit.

 

“I was just welcoming a friend child, I am not dead yet.” He said as thought it was simple and as if it was something he had come to terms with. “Sometimes my child it isn’t as easy as one wishes, ‘Liza.. I gave her my heart whole.” Words hitching towards their end as he spoke. “And with her gone, only my soul and mind remains.. Her heart beats no longer in me. I fear a man must follow his heart Aleksandra, even those that try not to always do in the end.” He reasoned while his wrinkled thumb rubbed over the flat of her palm. Digit both calloused and scarred from many years of toiling. “I will always be here, when the winters grow cold I will be the fire to warm those by the hearth. When it’s sweltering hot I will be the waters to quench the peoples thirst.”

 

The Alimar interjected. “You can’t leave us so soon, ‘bert, I refuse to accept it.” The tear-stricken countenance turned in resolve, unnoticing of the craning door

 

Marius entered glancing between the two gestalts speaking somberly. “Am I too late?” He seemed almost confused, perhaps the bond between them had made him aware that something was afoul.

 

“Niet.” Aleksandra returned to her cousin, begrudgingly retracting her palm from Robert’s grasp -- eyes remaining trained upon him.

 

“Too late?” Robert questioned whilst eyeing his son, surprised at his words yet an understanding smile settled on his lips. “There is no need to make so much sound.” He half admonished in jest.

 

“Forgive me, father.” Marius half croaked, though the words that should have followed the black garbed man never came out. Though Robert understood what he had intended to say.

 

“I’ll.. allow the both of you some space.” The young woman which flanked them attempted to use in a way to escape.

 

While he knew of her nature he could not accept her lack of presence, eyebrows tightening ever so slightly as his hand gripped her palm in a rare flux of strength to stop her. “Don’t leave, family must stay together in times of hardships and heartache.” Eyes cast to his son just after as he spoke out calmly with a more relaxed grip. “Forgive you? What have you done that must be forgiven?” He popped the question to the young crow.

 

Aleksandra relented as she relied on the stone-laden wall for support whilst gruffly crossing her arms.

 

“I’m not ready to lead, i’ve lost everyone who I cared for.” The young crow said through hurried hushes.

 

“SIT both of you.” Robert commanded sharply in a fit of energetic echoes across the enclosed room. “You are niet children any longer, so cease acting like ones.” He worded out with a tired expression and bushy brows coming to an angered angle. As the two adults seated themselves next to each other, he began to speak out calmly yet steadily in a tutor. “I lost each of my brothers, my father, mother and my wife lost many of her own in her tender youth. It pains the heart and most definitely makes you suffer. But son, daughter you both musn’t let darkness consume you.” Whilst speaking he signed the Haeseni cross. “For else you toil for evil, for Iblees, for else you sully their memory as they watch from the seven skies.” As he explained the pair shifted in their seats, eyes rippling from the candlelight.

 

“Who will help me then? I have no wife or son to carry on?” The young crow shot back.

 

“Then remarry.” The young Alimar proposed lowly, her voice straining as she glanced between them.

 

“You musn’t only pray son, find happiness in other things, you are far too young… your wife wouldn’t wish to see you despair and be in disrepair.” Robert offered his words.

 

“Valera.” Aleksandra tuts, eyes bolting shut -- further stifling tears. Marius nodded with eyes close to his father's response, taking in his words and their deeper meaning.

 

“Your mother and I were bound for many years, eventually such a bond cannot be lived without. Valera.. Such a sweet girl she was, truly it is my deepest regret she came to such an early end.” The young Alimar expressed a placid smile in suit of his remarks, her tightly wound fists slackening then.

 

“What kind of King will I be father?” The young crow shot out in question, perhaps knowing this would be the last he could ask such.

 

Extending one hand to the each of the two youths, Robert chuckled tightly at his son’s words as a bright smile dawned upon his lips. “I asked my father the same you know.” He muttered in reminisce. “Truly I was a boy lost back then, young and inexperienced, untested by time.” As they both accepted his hand into theirs, Aleksandra’s clenched most tightly while casting eyes to the young crow by her flank. “I will not say what my father said to me, frankly he never believed in his own leadership. At Least so he said, though the few fights we had I always did him admire. Instead I will offer my own words to you, perhaps to hope I can do for you what my father did for me.” While pausing for a moment the old King took in a deep breath, breathing out steadily after. “History will remember you based on many things my son, some will be of your own making and others out of your control. What matters is that you try your best. That you do what is fair by the people and even if some lose hope in you, never lose hope in them. That to me is a good King, someone worthy to rule.” He concluded emotionally, eyeing the two with an everlasting warm smile.

 

“I will try father, but I need help as no King can ever rule alone.” Marius proffered with a lowering of his head.

 

“Alone? You’ve siblings, aides, people at your behest? Don’t let those lost make you forget those whom are still here son.” The old man returned sharply and in admonishment.

 

“There will be those who will seek to see another on the throne.” The young crow said worriedly

 

The Koeng sighed deeply. “There always will be, humanity carries with it many sins, no one is pure and thus there in between breeds evil. Those who take such a path partook in actions and attempts against me as well, yet I stand here today though the duties of kingship are heavy with burden.”

 

“A burden that I must carry.” Marius offered in some understanding at his father’s words.

 

“Aye, I always told you that you’d best enjoy the time you have. Now your life will be that of duty, that of due diligence.” Wise words aside, the room became silent for a few moments, The walls practically heaving more heavily than the breaths between them.

 

“Should I falter in my duties? What then?” The young crow asked further after tepidly breaking the silence.

 

“To make mistakes is being human, when you falter you must steady your resolve and lean on those who can develop your diligence. Don’t forget my son, I would have perished had I not persisted.” As the room fell into another batch of silence, Robert gave their hands one last squeeze. “I am proud of you both, out of my children you two have succeeded most and lived up to my expectations. Though I love you all equally I can admit that much, now would you leave this old man to reminisce one last time?” They both left with emotions running high, one let out a deep sigh while the other stifled a solemn sob.

 

The Monarch He Is No Longer

In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.
 

 

In the middle of his room sat a lukewarm tub of water, Lorin beside him with blankets and a will to tidy the disrobing Robert’s garments. Seating himself in the tub, he laid the crown down on the cupboard, shoulders straightening as though a heavy burden had been lifted after many years of tension and arduous labor. “Would you like me to aide you, your majesty?” Lorin called out, though it took Robert quite some time to realize he was being addressed.

 

“Just call me Rob, in my last hour I am but a man, equal to all others in both person and prestige.” Infront of his own eyes, the Barbanov extended a wrinkled hand against the dark backdrop, light flickering lamely.

 

“As you wish Rob. How can this servant serve you one last time?”

 

Cloth bared against his skin as he rubbed away soil, his nose shot out a quick breath in slight frustration. “Your presence is enough Lorin, you’ve served me well and loyally. I hope you can do the same for my son, to remember to treat those close to you with care.” So he said while casting his eyes to the angelic figure at his bedside. One could not read its expression, yet in his mind he was thankful for being allowed to give his goodbyes. Taking two steps out of the tub, Lorin took proper care to dry Robert whilst offering and accommodating him the appropriate clothes. Garbed in white that he had selected to mirror the angelic figure, he made way for the bedside to sit before sliding into the comforts of the coverings. “Lorin take care of yourself will you? Remember to live your life for love and not seek to sin.” He admonished one last time as his right hand reached to clutch a pebble in his hand, both coming to a rest on top of what little of his chest stuck out past the sheets. When Lorin left, the room fell silent. Tears spilled down like rivers from the Koeng’s cheeks. Whilst he passed, the waters of Lake Ober and Lake Liza trembled mundanely, his tears reaching the earth only for the pass between the two Lakes to form a river as they finally joined once again. The Koeng lied lifeless after a muttering of three words: “Forgive me sister.”

 

---

 

The Will of Robert Lothar Barbanov

To Those Most Beloved

In Alphabetical Order

 

The People

To my people

 

Spoiler

 

My kinfolk, some of you have been here since this arduous journey began while others have joined us most recently. I have seen many of you grow old, some of which were my mentors and others my peers or the youth to in turn with time take our post. But you are all my people, my kin, my kith, my family and my friends. There will be a day when I am no longer here, when I can no longer share in your laughter, your presence. To those that it worries, to those it strikes the mind I would like to say my heart might have been my wifes, my soul might have been GOD’s but my mind has always been yours. There was no moment in life I worried not, where my mind could cease thinking of the people so kind, vibrant, steadfast and hardy. There are those who have mocked the Highlanders, perhaps they don’t understand our life, perhaps they don’t understand our brash nature. It is their fault for not knowing the honest love of a people true to themselves, to shiver in the cold builds bonds like no other. To have to hunt for survival bears kinship. To find comfort in each other in a world unforgiving, no luxuries afforded to us each yet our own togetherness the greatest treasure.

 

To you my treasures, to you my honest hearts I love you my hope, my dreams, my ambition. To you I leave what little I have left to give, forever I shall be there when you need me most, in the cold I will give you warmth and in soaring heat I shall quench your thirst. I thank you all for our greatest work, our magnum opus. For a King is only as good as his people, he is only as successful as his most devoted. So don’t forget, I would have perished had I not persisted. . .

 

 

To the people of Adria

 

Spoiler

 

The people of Adria has always been a merry folk with strong artisans and devoted craftsmen, we settled next to each other as struck in accord at the Crow’s moot. Two brothers united at last, languished in between Lake Liza and the Gotwald. To the people of the mountain, to the people of Adria I have always held great respect. I visited when I could, yet the duties of the crown held me often at home. It is my hope that with newfound foundation our two peoples shall grow closer and closer, our kinship forever kind and caring. When Valera died our hearts bled bold, our minds married. Upon my death I only hope we can all come together furthermore, for debutantes, dancers and the dramatic to sing songs of plays for the theatre. Let my death not be cold but instead warm, let us all cherish those who stand to us close. To those easily forgotten until you’ve lost them once and for all.

 

Let my funeral be a memory of all those lost, let it be the memory of the men and women whom all share of my blood, our blood. For death should not derive the driven, it should only be brought to bear on the beloved. To this heartbound people I leave my passion, my artistic woes for them to nurture and bear many a fruit.

 

 

To the people of Curon

 

Spoiler

 

Bears are strong and confident, standing against adversity in defiance of the dreadful. Your people has always tackled well what might be thrown at them. In the end a people which take underneath them great undertakings, sometimes successful and other times not. Yet forever confident in your capability to change things for the better, to return to simpler times. Through all which you’ve had to deal with, men of mongering and wars for warriors, sinning snakes and power hungry patriots you still stand here today. Loyal to man, man which us all united have, there are those that has bore you bad intentions and intrusions and yet you still stand, stand with backs tall with pride, stand steady on your own two feet.

 

This undertaking you have all begun together in the snowy wastes I can all but relate to too sharply. The winters will be long and the summers will be sadistic. Yet from hardship is wrought the worthy, from wastelands are born warriors. In the cold are found comrades, in the compassionate one finds clarity. I leave you the last warmth of my heart as it beats its last, in hopes that it might carry with you all and keep you safe when you need it most.

 

 

To the people of Renatus

 

Spoiler

 

Dragons oversee you all and so do their grand wisdom, in Helena you all propose politics or humble in humility. Each person so starkly contrasting the next and carrying a tale to tell, never have I met a people so diverse and well versed. Perhaps to you the grandeur of Imperium all but makes sense, but in the time of my father there was no such society. We’ve come so far and you have all achieved unification of humanity. Together we toll the bells of brotherhood, our peoples have a long history that stands to never part may it be in books or times to come. I would had wished to see the future come to fruition, yet time travels the furthest and fast.

 

It is thus that I leave you all with the want, want for betterhood, want for brotherhood. I leave you with my want so that you’ll never forget that the slothful are sinning, that the craven are crooked. So as I want the best for all I hope that you can want for such to befall.

 

 

The Persons

Those Most Cherished

 

Aleksandra Alimar

@Axelu

 

Spoiler

 

My little gem, my most cherished Ruthern ruffian. Or perhaps it is Alimar arson now? I suppose you will cherish your last victory against me, at least so I hope. Your mind is only dwarfed by your heart, perhaps you will never be a housewife but I envy whomever can have your heart whole. I perhaps also dread the dire tides that might take them, cause your hearts ocean is never ending and it thus that matters of it hurts you most. When you were young you’d often say you were to become a nun, in constant anquich, in constant combat. Your heart was always torn, torn between true acceptance to whom you are yourself and the fear of losing love. You always pushed people away in your youth, for if no one loved you then nothing could be lost. Though avoiding pain only brings more pain you self destructed with determination, with a long bound nurture and much worry on my side you came to change. While most certainly as of recent we’ve your husband to thank, I would like to be selfish this once. If I did well then you may open my right hand to hold one last time before I am taken to the place which seldom see sunlight. In it you might find my most cherished possession, the only matter of the material which draws in me emotion.

 

To you, your husband and issue I wish a long life. For them and you to hold the Red Princehood high and hardy, for you’ve always been a crow and as a crow you came.

 

Your Father ‘Bert

 

 

 

Anastasya Barbanov

@JoelTheGinger

 

Spoiler

 

My attentive little girl, you’ve always had the most spirit out of your siblings and brought warmth to my and your mothers hearts as you’re our living likeness. Through you others will find comfort and care, laughter and love. I hope in my absence you find someone to settle with, to drink and to dream. You’ll no doubt wreak a little havoc as you’ve an energetic soul, I am certain your presence will liven up the depression environment of my death. Though I must remind you to drink in moderation, to not forget to treat your kin with kindness and to aide the realm and its ruler.

 

There is a bond between us all that must never be broken. I’ve confidence that you’ll find books in an attempt to lock away your feelings, but forget not the vistas to view outside, people and partnership will warm you and help prepare for pain and easy any burden. So be free, be my little bee and reach out there where all the people be. For you and your sister I leave both a bond binder, two pieces of property for you both to cherish and care for a jewel for each of your ears. I hope that this piece might remind you I am always with you and as a sign for sisterhood between you and Nataya.

 

Your Father Forever

 

 

 

Augustus Horen

@El Ricktador

 

Spoiler

 

We’ve always been friends, seen things together that others never saw. We fought side by side in unexpected wars, planned and commanded in fragile times. I had liked to join you in your journey, to meet my old liege and comrades once again in the land far over the oceans path. Yet I find myself not able, my journey ends early as is often the endearing reality of rulership. Though oft we find the Barbanov bed is laid in early death by nature's call, rather than that of conflict or terrible massacre of man. I’d hope we could have spoken one last time, to share in a drink as we did in our youth just two men, two names spoken between our bond.

 

I paid handsomely to deliver you these words, one last goodbye I suppose. These things were never simple, know only that when your sword needs to strike true I shall make certain it will. That when doubt has been delivered I shall be there to poke in with the breath of clarity. By your side forever befriended.

 

Robert

 

 

 

Antonius Horen

@3andD

 

Spoiler

 

To you and your Imperium I have many hopes that I wish upheld and fortified, most certainly I never knew you as well as I did your father. Perhaps twice we have met since this I have written, but from your people I hear you are well lauded and my niece has you fancied. Take care of her well and make certain history may not repeat itself, i’ve few words to offer else. I’ve one last remark, I leave you with a wise vassal and filial friend as my one and only gift. Perhaps it will be enough.

 

Koeng Robert Lothar

 

 

 

Bottle

@HurferDurfer1

 

Spoiler

 

To my Dove of Dance and Rose of Reza I leave my voice and worries, I hope that you may shout them at the top of your lungs in times of trouble. So that you may be my vessel and bring forth my words for the woeful and worried. Usher forth in De Sac and know no bounds by the binding of mundane mortals.

 

An Ardent Admirer

 

 

 

Brog Dhoon

@Seuss

 

Spoiler

 

I’d not wish to weigh you with these news, most certainly you’ve had too many you’ve cared for be freed from the mortal plane. You had always been the odd uncle of our fair folk, perhaps one day you’ll return to them and find others like myself to aide. To this day I have not forgotten your service, may your actions for the crown not go wasted. My mindful friend and family, might you be merry in my absence and after it all think thoughtful things. Wherever life leads you next, I stand beside you in trying times and terrible troubles.

 

Robert Lothar

 

 

 

Bjolfr Nord

@GhostSHTR

 

Spoiler

 

You’ve served me well for many years and done so skillfully, I hope you and your offspring may continue to serve the Kingdom even in my passing. Your estate has grown and hopefully your heritage will be lasting. As a loyal man and not lacking it’d be best to find a wife, this one hopefully to keep for life so that your child may grow up with a mature mother by her side. Break bread and drink yourself drunk in my name, promise me this my old friend.

 

Robert Lothar

 

 

 

Charles de Cantor

@yopplwasupxxx

 

Spoiler

 

It was my real regret never to have you known, I sent these letters by chance and courier in hope that it would find itself to your home. Perhaps these are deft words left at the wrong door, though hope will hold for it finding itself at yours. It matters little to me as of what birth you might be, for a man of my mother is a brother most beloved. I’ve failed to carry out my duty of brotherhood and am thus burdened. Know atleast that each saints sunday my thoughts and prayers was always with you, that my mind never once slid or slacked in its hope to find you free. I leave with you my feelings of family, in hopes it might make you brought to your rightful place amongst those of our own.

 

Your Brother Bob

 

 

 

Demetrius Ruthern

@Sky

 

Spoiler

 

We’ve not spoken in a long time, it is with little doubt that I am certain your sisters death has caused you much pain. It more than likely won’t make much of a difference that I am to join such a list. I always saw you as a friend and family though I was never certain if you did the same. In all such matters it really doesn’t matter in the end, i’ve little to give and little to want in my last hours. I only hope that you can take care of your daughter in my absence, to aide those young to stray not from the correct path. Know that I have always loved you as a brother and brethren be beloved, in the wake of my absence I leave you with my piety for all men shall remain holy. It will perhaps be in GOD’s light that you shall find your journey born anew.

 

Your Friend Robert

 

 

 

Edward Audemar Barbanov

@Xarkly

 

Spoiler

 

I had hoped we could share in one last hunt before my end, yet as you know of your young crow he has himself often busied. When my father left us and made for the seven skies you had always been my mentor, uncle in relation but perhaps more of a parent in actions. Though with age you grew more angered and with your fate considered not all too surprising. I wished you to at least know that the sword you gave me came to good use, that your words said was always held dear to my heart. I cherished the moment I could as you had suggested, I carried such with me and tried my best to pass it on. Once you returned to us I was gladdest of all, when you brought three sons I was stupefied in grand glee. Most certainly your grandchildren will know they are blessed to have you, know also that mine would welcome you should they be given the chance. I leave with you my last smile, my last sincerity in hopes you can find it to lessen your old hearts burdens.

 

Your Son and Nephew, Rob

 

 

 

Fabio Bracchus

@Papa Liam

 

Spoiler

 

Where was one meant to start for those that have always stood by your side? For those that forever fiddle in your service yet bring you so much more joy than can be rewarded? I hope in those of the palace that you have found not only friendship but also family. That in cooking with your heart and soul you’ve found art in its purest form. It stands to little doubt that your meals were the first i’d eat as well as the last, know only that to me you’ve been an uncle as well as a chef. It’s thus I leave with you a new generation to spread your cuisine, perhaps even a budding apprentice in the wake of my daughter Nataya. It would stand to summarize that she has a surprising amount of interest in the culinary cultures.

 

Your Most Willing Consumer, Robert

 

 

 

Halle

@ElevenJellyBeans

 

Spoiler

 

Where should I begin with you Halle, it was my hope we would meet one last time. That I would see little Antun before my passing to give upon him my blessings. Most certainly it’ll be your husband who must care for you in the wake of my vanishing, for the seven skies is most obtuse and obscure. While perhaps unfair I have left in my stead two children before my wife's death, these will serve not only as my last blessing to you but as well to your Antun. Let them grow together as peers and perhaps share in a bond similar to that which we three had in our time.

 

I love you my sister, know that if my heart had been more humble and hardy I would have waited for your return. Yet the Aenguls work their mysteries and man maketh not the maker. I hope in the sight of young Maria and Otto you may find the image of the two you’ve lost. That in their gleeful laughter and cherishment, find comfort and clarity.

 

Your Dearest Brother, Rob

 

 

 

Henrik Ludovar

@Legoboy7984

 

Spoiler

 

I will keep it short with you cousin, work hard and harder, don’t derive decision from delusion and make forever your matters of marriage strong and steadfast. I wish you a long life and hope to see the Ludovars flourish beneath you and your brother both. Set aside your conflicts and cast below your bellows to share in your beautiful brotherhood. With you I leave my wisdom, knowing your previous actions you may very well need it! Know that you’ve made me proud and such I have proclaimed.

 

Your Cousin Robert

 

 

 

Jarrack Devereux

@Ankalagon_

 

Spoiler

 

I have little to say, else than the few makings between you and my House in marriage i’ve had little interaction. Your father and I have unbreakable bonds as brothers and I only wish to laude to you the same. Know that to you I leave a brother of your own, should you be capable to bond. Such a chance is often not possible to propose, yet I still hope that you may help yourself to it.

 

Koeng Robert

 

 

 

Konstantin Ruthern

@Security_

 

Spoiler

 

To you my nephew I wish only the best, i’ve known you little and have little to share as a result of such a situation. Know only that I vehemently believe in your vocational skill and vassalage beneath the King, I can say with pride that you will serve him well. What little strength i’ve left I leave with you to muster and make of what you will. I hope it will serve you when you’ve the need.

 

Your Uncle, Rob

 

 

 

 

Ludwig van Wick

@Security_

 

Spoiler

 

The Gypsy King is most certainly not forgotten, as an elder and old confidante I expect you to still serve the realm well in my absence. To be a voice of reasons in times most terrible and to challenge those with opinions unchallenged by most. There will always be need for a wick and wicks will always have a need. I thank you for all the years of companionship and hope in turn I have offered you something of equal worth.

 

Your King Robert

 

 

 

Marius Barbanov

@Imperium

 

Spoiler

 

My son, my pride and joy, my Marius. When you were born I had not been a more merry man. Whilst I feared to hold you in my arms and worried I would have you squished, you still stuck your fingers in a curl around mine. Now here you stand so refined, you are worried no doubt as was I when the world of rulership came to mind. I will not pester you from beyond the grave, most certainly you know I have loved you for life, that you have always brought me bounty and I always hoped for your health. I leave to you a sword handled in my youth befitt a crow, armour to don your men and stand with pride before the people and last of all a book to break any worries or woes.

 

Your Father Proudest, Robert

 

 

 

Morris

@Boiendl

 

Spoiler

 

I must thank you for your aide many moons ago, my son was flushed into far away tutoring in both capital and crownship. If you had not been by his side then it would of course not have gone as well as one might have hoped. But instead you welcomed our fair people and my fair kin as kinsmen and kindred. I leave with you as a result merry Morris my conviction as most certainly a man of action needs it most.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Nataya Barbanov

@TarreBear

 

Spoiler

 

My dearest daughter, you’ve sneezed and snotted since young and youthful yet your beauty was not besmirched. I am glad to see you’ve found your own passions, I was never a good cook but your mother always did try to teach me a thing or two. While she may have failed I have always known how to make the Barovian Pieces, it’s a family recipe from my mother's side and I leave with you both a gift to share with your sister and a note of this foodstuff. As for the boy we’ve both spoken, as long as he uphold his promise then you’ve my blessings to court and be married.

 

Your Father Forever, Robert

 

 

 

Otto Kortrevich

@Quinn

 

Spoiler

 

Serve my son well as you have served me, let your family be lead to a higher rise in hierarchy with times steadfast conviction. I will watch ever vigilant from the seven skies in hope of seeing the heavy harking of your future prospects.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Paul Duke of Adria

@NordLord

 

Spoiler

 

Let our two families never be forsaken, I know not what you and your kinsmen have done as of recent as I have all but removed from mortal matters. I hope only that you find yourself in a future most gracious and glad. Your sister's passing must have struck you heavy, it is most terrible and most unfortunate that she left us so soon. It is thus that in her memory we shall all come together to find greater strength in filial bonds and our blood.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Pontian Pontificus

@xboxersz

 

Spoiler

 

Most likely you may have thought I have forgotten of the deeds of the downtrodden, the stakes of the steadfast. I only wish to remind you that your brothers sacrifice was not squandered. I have forever remembered how it was in his heroic hands my wife was given salvation and safety. Thus I not only wish to thank you in the stead of him, but also remind you that it is all not too surprising that it is his ilk that serves GOD most vehemently. The pure giveth the person and man maketh not the maker. I give you my boldness in hope that even if the dark shall test you it may come of use as your brothers did for me.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Rodrik Kortrevich

@Milenkhov

 

Spoiler

 

I am proud and most certainly you’ve been made presentable, make of Knighthood not killing. This most certainly was my will when I saw your capability and craftsmanship in combat. I need not ask as I know you will serve my son well, instead I wish to offer you the good tidings and a good life. To tell you one last time that you’re my pride and most certainly parental prowess brimmed me often. Take care and come not undone by the ravages of rivers nor the torrents of time.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Siegmund Corbish

@nathanbarnett36

 

Spoiler

 

Steadfast and forever at everyones service, this is what I attribute to you most Siegmund. Your name is most holy and your actions are most devote. You’ve served me well and done so without question nor no matter the consequence. You’ve always been a Knight of the Realm and as such I bequeath upon you a moniker, in hopes that it will remind you of your capability. It is such that hence you shall be known as “Siegmund The Sincere”.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Swithun Aldor

@NovumChase

 

Spoiler

 

I’ve little to say, I know you’ve never truly liked me or my influence upon ‘Liza and her upbringing. You attempted to put a wrench in our marriage yet I could never find myself able to be angered by you. I hope only you will remember she always loved you as a father, even in her last days there was nay an ounce of doubt or loss of such convictions. In her memory I only hope you can find comfort and I offer you thus the last of my memories of her.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Timeo de la baltas

@Publius

 

Spoiler

 

Young Timeo, I hope that you may perform and partake in my funeral and that your band of brothers forever be the artistes they were always meant to be. I have left you and your people my heritage and artistic natures, GOD willing you will use it well and serve the arts ardently. Know that your people and your actions has had me admired and inspired.

 

King Robert

 

 

 

Will Devereux

@KosherZombie

 

Spoiler

 

My old friend words needn’t be expressed between brothers as us, take care and drink yourself drowsy in my name. Know that in the seven skies I shall welcome you warmly. I’ve never been deemed dramatic, live long.

 

Robert

 

 

 

The Vaeyl

@Xarkly

Spoiler

 

[!] Carried by a Sleet Swallow a drawn scroll tied to its talon, it landed in Markev’s aviary returning home for the first time in a few passing years.[!]

 

I hope your sacrifice was worthwhile, I send this letter in hope that you stand to remember your humanity. That we are not your enemy, as she sacrificed as well as many of your ordermen came not in vain. But I seek also to remind you of the fact that our alliance still stands, perhaps you and your men always thought you were good at keeping secrets. I always admired their loyalty, yet also admonished their lack of trust. Though I suppose in the grand scope of history it all but makes sense, as you were betrayed by your maker so has humanity betrayed each other for longer than history can count. I hope however that in my people you can find a bond, for we’ve been betrayed for many a moon.

 

Whilst you lied and I poked through and peered past them I still stood by your side, though I may have never have met you Vaeyl I understand you quite well. Lose not hope, rule your people with grace and gratitude. There will be testing times, trying times even that will make you question your decisions, whilst some of them might falter in their belief in you, you must never falter in your belief in them. You may have outlived me by years uncountable, yet I still hope this last lauding might serve you well.

 

Forget not the people of Haense, forget not your Heart, forget not your Hope and most importantly of all forget not your Humanity…

 

 

 

Robert Sigismund sends his regards.

[Nathan_Barnett36 1564]

Siegmund sheds a slight tear, vowing to serve the new king

[Imperium 3495]

Marius makes the sign of the cross, “I carry this burden alone father, I’ll do my best to live up to your legacy.”

[NovumChase 235]

Swithun, now much more a wizened, tough old man than he had been when he watched Robert’s upbringing, cannot help but fall into despondency as he reads the King’s letter to him. Robert, the son of the Sigmar Swithun had so adamantly served, had been the wearer of the crown for so much of Swithun’s adult life—Robert had indeed defined Swithun’s later career and status. As much as he bitterly tries to stifle it, a tear falls from the old man’s face to the paper before he solemnly sets it aside.

 

“Rest well in the skies above, Your Majesty.”

[Publius 4098]

Whence Timeo de la Baltas hears of this, he did not simply mourn. Recalling a poem he wrote during the Crow’s Moot, he would smile fondly upon the days of unity within Carriondom. Though of course the Carrion’s gave beginnings to each line, he had always thought of the Barbanov’s as simply the most majestic – both in stature and in title. 

 

Thinking long on it, he decided to find said old poem, hopeful to perform it in Reza, as to not just to simply recall the King, but celebrate him.

 

”May he be remembered as Robert ‘the Regal’.” Said the man with dignity to friend’s who asked what he thought on the development.

[helldiving 5793]

Sir Rodrik would make the sign of the cross after Koeng Marius, letting out a sigh and smiling at the skies, knowing that he’d have someone watching upon his Knightly deeds...

[HurferDurfer1 2978]

N/A

[SubscriptShark2 197]

Jan went silent and resided himself to be alone for a few days ((that made me cry ;n;))

[Silverstatik 218]

Lorin would close the door behind him, pausing as he sighs and he signs the cross, preparing to deal with the turmoil of the coming days.

[Seuss 1056]

There were no words from the man. His hand covering his eyes as he read the will under his name. A tear fell on the paper, followed by another. The grand hall of his fortress was haunted by the soft whimpering of an old man. Not a word was spoken.

[GhostSHTR 1205]

The newly knighted Ser Bjolfr would Receive the letter from his king taking it into his study. His study would be cover with notes from the investigation of Eliza. The sound of children playing outside his window as he opened the letter. Reading it tears begun to swell in his blue eyes. “ My young Robert, my Eliza, oh how did you both leave before me. I’vE watched you both grow up and do amazing things. From young lovers sneaking out at night to one of our finest monarchs. I will see you in the seven skies my friends.” With that last word bjolfr collapsed into a sob

[1_Language_1 1671]

[OOC]: Oh man I think I cried, beautiful post.

 

Matthias read over the news, blinking. He regretted not being more talkative with Robert when Matthias was just a young lad.

[TheIchorDruid 1986]

The former Queen watched her husband from the skies above, in his moments of fear; she held him. In his moments of sorrows she embraced him and in his last moments of joy she laughed with him. It was truly aching for Elizaveta to be apart from her soul-mate; but she knew time had its plans. 

 

But that time came, Elizaveta waited patiently for her beloved Robert and when he did venture to the seven skies; her arms were drawn open and waiting. Like they were when they were both living.

 

”No need to strain yourself now my love, we have done all we can for our children and each day they will find themselves. Come now, rest easy and stay with me for ever more.”

 

With that the mother, father, queen and king lay themselves to rest to guide over their children.

[ElevenJellyBeans 100]

The Lady sat in her husband’s arms grieving the passing of not only an old friend from childhood but her brother. The memories of their time together flashed before her eyes as she reads her letter. Her lips part to let out a few broken words.

“I love you, Brother...” She’d sigh gently as in her arms lay soundly sleeping a new born girl and at her feet a four year old boy.

“your uncle loves you..” Halle sobbed gently but took in the news that she was able to look after his children, then making plans with her lover to head to Haense.

[Security_ 2287]

Ludwig frowns upon hearing the news, remaining within his house for some time in deep thought.

 

Konstantin signs the Haeseni cross upon the news, staring out from his work room window, mumbling, “May his soul rest well in the Skies.”