The Esrova Court 1477 Popular Post Share Posted October 1, 2023 (edited) ✧──────────────⊱🜂⊰──────────────✧ VOLUME I BEHAVIORS AND PRACTICES RECENTLY OBSERVED BY THE HAESENI PEOPLE ISSUED BY THE ON THIS 7TH DAY OF TOV AG YERMEY OF 497 E.S. ✧──────────────⊱🜂⊰──────────────✧ Since the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska split from the Empire, the Haeseni people have observed a steady ascent in Highlandic solidarity. As a new dawn sheds light upon this golden era of Northern culture, it is widely believed that the heart of the Highlanders beats strongest in Haense, for it is here that their heritage finds its most profound expression. Within Haense lies the ruby of the North - the Royal City of Valdev, where this cultural renaissance has taken root; a a place where the legacies of our ancestors intertwine with the aspirations of our present and propel our culture forward. Following the ascension of Queen Amaya of Venzia, a number of behaviors observed in the Courts have notably shifted. Her Majesty’s Esrova Prikaz Court, nestled within the heart of the Kingdom, has shed many customs of the yesteryears, giving way to a unified social sphere where the guiding ethos is one of unity among the diverse Highlandic cultures of Hanseti-Ruska. In light of this, a vibrant culture thrives - one that celebrates the traditions, languages, and beliefs of past and present that define the essence of Haeseni heritage. This newfound spirit of camaraderie has since breathed new life into the Courts. Yet, it would be remiss not to acknowledge the enduring influence of past figures such as Queens Annika Anastasija, Emma Karenina, Amadea Ulyssa, and Sofiya Camila who have etched their indelible mark upon Haeseni culture. Their legacies have endured through the ages, each contributing to the rich medley of Haeseni heritage and history. It is because of them, and many other forefathers of yore, that we continue to observe and practice the beloved traditions that define Haeseni culture to this day. ✧──────────────⊱🜂⊰──────────────✧ I Within Haeseni culture, communication is highly regarded, and it is essential to speak truthfully while maintaining a sense of tact. The Haeseni are well-known for their strong and honest presence and uphold these values in their day-to-day interactions. They are a resolute and hearty people, embodying the virtues of their traditions of both the past and the present. ❖ Greeting those of equal or lower status requires a more subtle acknowledgment, typically a dip of the chin. This demonstrates respect while recognizing the equality or hierarchy of one’s counterpart. Members of the Brotherhood will observe the gesture of saluting, even when off duty, to demonstrate their allegiance. It is also worth noting that in Haeseni tradition, nodding three times during a conversation is a signal for the conversation to come to an immediate end due to a lack of progress or sincerity in the exchange. ❖ When greeting a member of the Royal Family, the traditional curtsy has faded into the past, giving way to a more symbolic gesture: pressing one's fist to one's heart. This gesture signifies respect for the other’s honor, which is deeply rooted in Haeseni culture. When in the presence of the King or Queen, individuals may choose to kneel or bow as a display of reverence, a practice equally applicable to both men and women. However, a fist pressed to one’s heart typically suffices in an informal setting. ❖ Within Her Majesty’s Court, idle gossip is strongly disapproved of, and any issues should be addressed directly with the individuals involved. In the modern age, the Esrova Court has since encouraged forthright communication, promoting honesty and transparency within all social settings. If one believes their honor has been tarnished within the Court, a duel of wit or skill may be authorized by the Queen, while duels of combat may only be permitted by the King in accordance with Haeseni Law. The people of Hanseti-Ruska place great significance on the subtleties of addressments, employing them as a means to exhibit respect and reinforce the honor of their Haeseni counterparts. This practice is especially significant in public settings, wherein individuals will address their counterparts with either a formal or informal titular address, depending on the nature of their relationship. In the public eye, the choice of address is a deliberate one. Close friends may opt for an informal address; in contrast, it is customary to employ a formal address when interacting with strangers or mere acquaintances. Conversely, within the confines of a private setting, a certain degree of flexibility is allowed, primarily for members of the Royal Family. In the presence of family members or exceptionally close friends, Royals may grant permission for the use of their first names. Lords and Ladies, on the other hand, maintain a consistent mode of address, both in public and private spheres. In recent times, it has been observed that Haeseni nobles prefer to utilize their first names in most circumstances, spare for formal settings. The following is a compiled list of appropriate addresses for individuals of varying standings, inspired by the works of the Grand Lady, Rosalind Amador, HRM, Queen Maya of Muldav, and HRH, Princess Sofiya Theodosiya: ❖ THE KING | VE KOENG Formal Address: “Your Royal Majesty” Informal Address: “Your Majesty” Alternative Greetings: “My liege” or “My King” ❖ THE QUEEN | VE KOENAS Formal Address: “Your Royal Majesty” Informal Address: “Your Majesty” Alternative Greetings: “My Queen” ❖ GRAND PRINCE or GRAND PRINCESS | VE HAUCHPRINZEN or HAUCHPRINZENAS Formal Address: “Your Serene Highness” Informal Address: “Your Highness” Alternative Greetings: “My Prince/Princess” ❖ PRINCESS ROYAL | VE PRINZENAS ROYAL Formal Address: “Your Serene Highness” Informal Address: “Your Highness” Alternative Greetings: “My Prince/Princess” ❖ PRINCE or PRINCESS | PRINZEN or PRINZENAS Formal Address: “Your Royal Highness” Informal Address: “Your Highness” Alternative Greetings: “My Prince/Princess” ❖ DUKE or DUCHESS | HERZEN or HERZENAS Formal Address: “Your Grace” Informal Address: “Your Lordship/Ladyship” Alternative Greetings: “My Lord” or “My Lady” ❖ COUNT or COUNTESS | KOMIT or KOMITAS Formal Address: “The Right Honourable” Informal Address: “Your Lordship/Ladyship” Alternative Greetings: “My Lord” or “My Lady” ❖ VISCOUNT or VISCOUNTESS | VIKOMIT or VIKOMITAS Formal Address: “The Honourable” Informal Address: “Your Lordship/Ladyship” Alternative Greetings: “My Lord” or “My Lady” ❖ BARON or BARONESS | BOSSIR or BOSSIRAS Address: “Your Lordship/Ladyship” Alternative Greetings: “My Lord” or “My Lady” ❖ MEMBERS OF THE AULIC COUNCIL Address: “Your Excellency” ✧⊱🜂⊰✧ II Another observable shift in Haeseni culture is the lax nature of banquets and feasts. Dining and feasting hold a special place in modern Haeseni culture, fostering a jovial and easygoing atmosphere for all in attendance. ❖ At the heart of these gatherings, the head of the house or the reigning monarch takes their place at the head of the table. Before the first morsel touches anyone's lips, it is imperative that a prayer is uttered, invoking blessings for the meal and those partaking in it. This ritual is particularly significant during formal banquets, wherein a priest blesses both the Carrion Black and the meal. ❖ A noteworthy aspect of Haeseni dining is the encouragement for both men and women to finish their meals. If they find themselves unable to do so, they are encouraged to take the leftovers home, as wasting food is seen as disrespectful to the host and demonstrates unnecessary wastefulness. This emphasis on eating well is rooted in the belief that maintaining one's strength is of utmost importance. ❖ In years past, there were many restrictive protocols on the dining habits of unmarried women, especially in the presence of men unrelated to them– in fact, Haeseni women were oft permitted only to drink wine and ‘waft’ their meals unless the head of their household was of a higher standing than the rest gathered at the feast. In the modern Haeseni era, these restrictions have dissipated into the past. At feasts, it is now observed that all guests, regardless of one’s gender or status, are free to begin eating once the host has taken their first bite. ✧⊱🜂⊰✧ III I. THE VEREVKA BELT Despite the recent shifts in Haeseni culture, there are several time-honored traditions that continue to hold significant importance in the realm of courtship and engagements. One such tradition is the Verevka belt, which continues to be observed to this very day. This belt, made of ivy and twine gathered from the forest, serves as a symbol of engagement and, in some cases, even replaces the conventional engagement ring. It is a treasured symbol that signifies the bond between the engaged couple. II. THE CELEBRATION OF JULIYAFEST The heart of courtship and proposals in Hanseti-Ruska shall lie in the enchanting holiday known as Juliyafest. This designated time is considered the most appropriate for the initiation of courtships, although betrothals can be arranged at any point throughout the year. Juliyafest itself is a grand and elaborate celebration hosted to commemorate St. Juliya, the patron saint of matrimony and mothers. Spanning three months, it typically includes a grand tourney, a masquerade ball, a celebration dubbed ‘St. Juliya’s Companions,’ wherein attendees will gather in the Prikaz with their intended, and, finally, a couple’s hunt to conclude the festivities. III. BETROTHAL FEASTS Another custom observed to this day is the betrothal feast, in which the lady’s suitor is served either Lok (cooked goat intestine filled with pork) or Erkindelir (boiled pig heart) at the conclusion of the grand banquet. To receive the presentation of Lok is to signify approval of the union from the respective patriarch or matriarch of the household, whereas Erkindelir conveys a distinct disapproval. If served with uli (a spiced cream sauce), the suitor is entirely forbidden from seeing the lady in question. IV. THE HAUCHMETVAS Another noteworthy celebration that has endured the test of time is the Hauchmetvas, a coming-of-age tradition observed within Haeseni culture today. A Lady’s Hauchmetvas signifies this momentous passage into adulthood and is a privilege typically reserved for the eldest daughter of the mainline. The debutante first bids farewell to her childhood by consigning three old belongings to the flames of a bonfire, signifying the transition from childhood to adulthood in a ceremony known as the Burning of Age. Soon thereafter, the debutante is bestowed a wreath of flowers, each carrying a unique meaning that speaks to the lady's character and aspirations. Most notably, Haeseni debutantes are known to don red at these celebrations due to the color’s storied association with love, courtships, and betrothals. Superstitions have long held a significant place within Haeseni culture, spanning multiple centuries. In matters of love and the pursuit of a suitable match, the Haeseni have always sought the favor of Godani, placing faith in the omens that He presents before them. Thus, these traditions and superstitious beliefs that the Haeseni entertain shall fend off any ill omens or malevolent spirits that may linger. I. BETROTHAL FEASTS ❖ The ability to stomach Lok during a betrothal feast holds immense significance, symbolizing the presence of good or bad luck in a forthcoming marriage. Should a suitor fail to keep the Lok down, the union is surely doomed to fail. ❖ Once the plate is cleaned of Lok, the families of the prospective bride and groom will smash their plates against the floors and walls, a practice aimed at banishing any lingering spirits that might dare to encroach upon the couple’s union. II. MATRIMONY ❖ Another intriguing tradition observed in recent years involves the nationally favored Carrion Black. Here, the newlyweds are presented with bottles filled with Carrion. Each set of parents bestows a bottle and prompts the couple to drink. Once emptied, the couple shatters them, signifying their hopes for a long and joyous marriage. The number of shards created is believed to foretell the length of the couple's union. ❖ The superstitions surrounding the wedding day extend beyond the ceremony itself. Historically, Haeseni brides are cautioned against changing their shoes on their special day, as doing so is believed to symbolize a lack of loyalty to their partner. It is said that if one cannot remain faithful to the same pair of shoes on the day of their wedding, their fidelity may waver in more significant matters. ❖ The presence of crows holds great significance in the life of any Haeseni. Three crows sighted signify an upcoming wedding, whereas the sighting of four crows presents the auspicious sign of a birth. ❖ Rice and barley are tossed upon the bride and groom to symbolize fervent prayers for fertility and abundance in the couple's life together. ❖ To gift someone yellow flowers is to insinuate a grave accusation akin to calling them an adulterer. It is a gesture laden with implications of unfaithfulness and should never be bestowed upon a newly wedded couple. III. THE HAUCHMETVAS ❖ The pursuit of love and companionship is not exempt from superstition in Haeseni culture. A striking belief dictates that a Lady who does not don the color red upon the eve of her Hauchmetvas will hinder her ability to find a suitable match due to the sheer significance of the color’s meaning. ❖ As an added charm, carrying an acorn in one's pocket during the Hauchmetvas is believed to promote youth and luck in the quest for a match. ✧──────────────⊱🜂⊰──────────────✧ Spoiler References were made from the following posts; be sure to check out the original lore and Haeseni customs! https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/209434-etiket-i-ve-kort-hauchmetvas-courtship-betrothals-and-matrimony/ https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/213172-etiket-i-ve-kort-social-gatherings-courtly-manners-and-dining/ https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/197417-etiquette-reforms-in-the-royal-court-of-hanseti-ruska/ https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/203780-haeseni-superstitions-and-omens/ https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/176508-haeseni-people/ Her Royal Majesty, AMAYA OF VENZIA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald, and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, et cetera His Excellency, FABIAN OTTO D’ARKENT-KORTREVICH, Grand Lord of Hanseti-Ruska Firr, IOSIF BYCHKOV, Ward of the Palace Custodian Edited November 4, 2023 by The Esrova Court 36 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
esotericas 1561 Share Posted October 1, 2023 Galina Georgina seethes over not being the eldest daughter of her family, and therefore not being permitted a Hauchmetvas. It was criminal, honestly... 8 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
annabanana1014 1636 Share Posted October 2, 2023 Klara Ludovar, who was seated by her husband, showed the missive to him with a smile. "Isn't this quite the missive, my love? Haense has such a rich and growing culture!" @Dogged 5 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Frostdrop1 877 Share Posted October 2, 2023 Ser Audo Weiss is particularly glad to see a cultural address, especially one condemning those terrible yellow flowers! Upon scrutinising the addresses, however, he grumbled, "Vyr Kariav is a much more succinct address than Your Honourable. Ea'll be dead before our people honour of language of law." He folded the missive with an exasperated sigh, having over time taken increasing note of the growing movement towards Common tongue. 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Orphvius 434 Share Posted October 2, 2023 16 hours ago, The Esrova Court said: the families of the prospective bride and groom will smash their plates against the floors and walls, a practice aimed at banishing any lingering spirits that might dare to encroach upon the couple’s union. One such dark spirit in question is continually startled by the frivolous and offensive ritual.. 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
yopplwasupxxx 5665 Share Posted October 3, 2023 Very cool +1 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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