[B] THE PRINCIPALITY OF SLESVIK

[JuliusAakerlund 2402]

 

THE PRINCIPALITY OF SLESVIK

THROUGH BATTLE AND BLOODSHED, WE STAND AS ONE.

ANTHEM MUSIC - SONS OF SLESVIK

 

 

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A BRIEF HISTORY

The Principality of Slesvik traces its history back to the days of Anadan ‘the Wise’ Kolburanaz, who united the many Scyfling Clans of the far highlands of Aegis, colloquially known as the Curzken Highlands. At his behest, the first far north city of Slesvik was constructed where the Sles River bay (or vik in the language of the Scyflings) met Lake Sken. From Slesvik, Anadan ruled as the first High Chief of the Scyflings and borne from him was the line from which Colborn stems. Through the generations, the descendants of Anadan carried the torch as High Chief, men and women of various make and greatness. It took imperial incursion in the days of Athera to finally splinter the Scyfling unity. By the time St. Carr made it north to reclaim and remake the realm, that ambition was laid to rest, not out of weakness, but to unify all the peoples of the north under one banner, that of Haense; culminating into the Barbanov-Colborn Pact.

 

 

The shoreline of Lake Sken before the establishment of Slesvik.

 

THE BARBANOV-COLBORN PACT

Since youth, the young Patriarchs of their respective families dreamed of the north. Karl was lulled to sleep by his aunt’s tales of the Raev of old before their southern migration, and Carr could still remember the gentle northern wind in his earliest memories. It wasn’t until Otto the Bald stoked their inner flame in the halls of Briarwood that they found conviction. Long years were spent uniting the North; none in the South thought it possible, and many more hoped to make it never occur. However, with each companion gathered along the way and with each trial overcome, eventually, they had a northern state that was the culmination of their effort. After all they had experienced and done, they often grew nostalgic, thinking of simpler days, the days that both were easily confused for each other due to their similarities, raven-black hair, and the eyes of the Highlanders of old. Sitting before the hearth of flame in the Ducal Castle of Siegrad, they spoke so:

 

“My Lord, I see you as family, and I wish for you to know that no matter what, I will follow you wherever the road leads or ends. . . I would wish that my sons and daughters could share the bond that we share. . . so that they may serve your children just as I have served you.” —Carr Colborn

 

“Let us swear then as brothers and make a pact worthy of drinking to. Only history will know if it will stand the test of time. But I have confidence in you; not once has my trust in you led me astray, not since youth, nor now. Let our brotherhood be the steel that binds the North, unbroken and enduring.” —Karl Barbanov

 

"Let it be known then, henceforth: our brotherhood shall stand as the bedrock of our realm, bound by the strength of steel and the unyielding spirit of our forefathers."  —Carr Colborn

 

They drank then as many of their descendants still drink today, to hope and to a legacy unequaled by many. To a dream that their brotherhood outlives them. To a future where their descendants might continue their legacy and protect what matters most: their people—the people of the North.

 

 

St. Karl and St. Carr sealing the pact.

 

KARL’S VOW - SWORN PACT OF THE CROWS

As stipulated in the pact, a crow is considered one who holds Barbanov's name and blood and is not disowned, a pretender, or a false claimant to the name.

 

Spoiler

House Barbanov, in exchange for holding the title of Slesvik as titular—never to be landed—swear that these tenets are to be observed as sworn and stipulated by the two Saints and Founders of Haense, St. Karl and St. Carr:

 

• From each Crow Monarch, a promise to the Ravens that the title of Slesvik is to be held by them and them alone until such a day the Trials are completed by a Prince or Princess of Barbov blood.

 

• From the Prince(s) or Princess(es) of Slesvik, a promise to respect the Ravens and their culture and to represent the Scyflings fairly and justly. To live and die by their ways and observe their customs in their everyday life. To be a beacon of the culture and worthy of the Title’s weight.

 

• From each Crow Monarch, a promise to treat their pact-bound Raven in a manner befitting the tenets of Brotherhood or sisterhood.

 

• From each Crow Monarch, a promise that the Ravens, their culture, and ways are theirs to practice and dictate and that their people are to be respected as long as they remain Canonist.

 

• From each Crow Monarch, a promise to never name a piece of land or give such a land by the name of Slesvik and for the title to remain titular unless beneath the stewardship of a Colborn.

 

• From each Crow Monarch, a promise that should Haense fall, or the Royal Family cease their rule, the title of Slesvik would be returned to Colborn until the nation of Haense rose again under a Barbanov. Such is held to be true should the pact never be broken; may the ancestors lay witness.

 

Should these tenets ever be broken by a Crow Monarch or their heir, may the pact be broken with it, and the title of Slesvik be returned, as sworn below the gaze of GOD.

 

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CARR’S VOW - SWORN PACT OF THE RAVENS

As stipulated in the pact, a raven is considered one who holds Colborn's name and blood and is not disowned, a pretender, or a false claimant to the name.

 

Spoiler

House Colborn, in exchange for laying down their ambitions for a Scyfling Realm and giving the title of Slesvik to Barbanov as titular—never to be landed—swear that these tenets are to be observed as sworn and stipulated by the two Saints and Founders of Haense, St. Karl and St. Carr:

 

• To each Crow Monarch, the title of Slesvik is for them to hold and them alone until such a day the pact is broken by them. If such a day should come, it shall return to its rightful owners; may such a day never come.

 

• To the Prince(s) or Princess(es) of House Barbanov be afforded the chance and opportunity to hold the Principality of Slesvik, should any complete the trials thereof, and if so successful, style themselves as Prince or Princess of Slesvik until their death or the passing of one hundred years. May it then return to the crown and the Trials observed again if the will manifests.

 

• To each Trial Taker, a promise is made that the Trials will be conducted in the manners of old, and its dangers will be presented fairly and honestly to the challenging aspirant.

 

• To each Crow Monarch, a Raven to be bound to them in brotherhood or sisterhood, duty, camaraderie, and companionship. May they choose wisely.

 

• To each Crow Monarch, an oath of loyalty is resworn on the day the pact dinner is observed.

 

• To each Crow Monarch, a promise to never claim the title of Slesvik until such a day the pact is broken by them or they give it willingly.

 

• To each Crow Monarch, a promise that as long as the pact is upheld, the House of Colborn will return to their service, even if the realm were to fall, as long as one day a Barbanov were to reclaim it.

 

Should these tenets ever be broken by a Raven Patriarch or Matriarch or their heir, may the pact be broken with it, and the title of Slesvik be held and kept by the House of Barbanov alone, as sworn below the gaze of GOD.

 

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THE IVELD OATH

 

The Oath taken by House Colborn before the Crown is essential for continuing the pact. It often follows shortly after the coronation but is sometimes delayed due to uncontrollable circumstances by the Crown. The Crown has commonly referred to this event as the “Pact Dinner.” The observed ceremonies of the occasion start with a short social event where the current members of House Colborn are introduced to the royals. This is followed by the Iveld Oath proper, where the current leaders of both families swear an oath before each other and the grave of either Karl or Carr, which is as follows:

 

Spoiler

The Crow says to the Raven.

"Blood of the Raven, descendants of the unyielding Carr, I come before you to reaffirm the bond of old, to stand as our forebears once stood: side by side, in loyalty and trust. Through trials and triumphs, through storms and calm, we walk together—our paths forever entwined. Let us renew our Oath, that your children and mine might share in the strength of this pledge, and that our brotherhood may guard this realm, unbroken by time or hardship."

 

The Raven Responds.

"Blood of the Crow, descendants of the resolute Karl, your words carry the weight of tradition, as they did when our forefathers made their vow. I accept this renewal with the same zeal that lit our ancestors’ hearts, pledging my strength, my honor, and my blood to you and yours. May our pact remain as steadfast as the mountains of the North, and may our loyalty never falter, just as it has not since the days of Carr and Karl."

 

The Crow concludes.

"Let it be known, then, that the Oath stands renewed, as strong as steel, as enduring as the cold winds that sweep our land. Under the witness of the North, I recognize this bond between Crow and Raven, bound by the vows of our forefathers and by our shared duty to our people. May our unity continue to guide our hands and fortify our hearts from this day until the end of days. The North endures, as does our brotherhood."

 

Upon the completion of the Oath, the Monarchs each choose their own pact-bound Colborn, and the ceremonial process is complete.

 

OOC NOTE

Optionally, the Iveld Oath, which means Iron Fire, can sometimes be sealed by having the leaders of the respective families heat a dagger or blade, which is then pressed to the palm to leave a mark. This leaves a more physical reminder of the pact. While this has fallen out of favor in recent times. It is sometimes substituted by the exchange of daggers, where each respective leader hands the other a short blade of fine make to symbolize this old custom.

 

THE TRIALS OF SLESVIK

Since the unification of the Highlander realm, there have been few holders of the Title of Slesvik. So far in Haense’s history, only Petyr I and Amaya of Venzia held the title prior to their enthronement as Monarchs. From this, one can garner both how prestigious a status it is and how challenging a task the Trials tend to be. Just to begin such a journey, one must convince five adult Scyflings of recognized clans to speak in their favor to the High Chief. In this private gathering and exchange of words, the leader of House Colborn will decide if the reasons for support are sufficient, and if not, then reasons will be provided. If the support is recognized, the would-be Prince or Princess of Barbanov will be considered an aspirant and allowed to begin their first Trial. Should there be several aspirants, whoever completes the Trials first shall ultimately be given the title of Slesvik.

 

THE TRIAL OF HAMAR

True strength lies not in the weight you carry, but in the will that endures when all else would yield. The hammer may bend your back and blister your hands, but it is the heart that refuses to break that forges a warrior’s spirit.

 

Spoiler

This Trial will test the aspirant's tenacity and conviction. The challenger will receive a hammer forged of heavy metal, its surface decorated with their ambitions and beliefs—their aspirations. They will then carry the very same hammer until all Trials are completed. Failure to adhere to such is a failure to one's convictions, for leadership is a heavy burden. The hammer is likewise the symbol of a trial taker and emblematic of their promise to the High Chief and themselves.

 

OOC NOTE

The hammer should be heavy enough that the person carrying it can feel the load and be affected by it. However, it should not make it impossible to live, but rather more troubling. They can always fasten the hammer to their belt when holding it is inappropriate.

 

THE TRIAL OF TORVALD

Wisdom is not found in the ease of answers, but in the struggle of questions, where the mind sharpens like a blade against stone. Knowledge gained without effort is like the morning mist—quick to fade; but that which is earned through toil becomes the mountain that withstands all storms.

 

Spoiler

Essential to one who intends to lead the Scyflings is the knowledge of their history and ways. Thus, this Trial should only be tackled after study. While failure here does not make one disqualified, it will mean a repeat of the Trial will be needed. The trial entails three Scyflings, that are learned men or women, giving the Trial taker two questions each that must be answered correctly. Each successive question will be more challenging than the previous one. If one fails this Trial thrice, one is disqualified as an aspirant.

 

OOC NOTE

If you fail to answer a question, you will have to repeat the trial, either immediately or at a later time. You can fail this test three times before you are disqualified from continuing. Generally, the test will focus on content that can be learned in IRP, such as reading books or posts on the forums. However, it's beneficial for someone aspiring to be the Prince or Princess of Slesvik to have a strong understanding of the Scyflings. You can learn from the Scyflings or their libraries directly, and there is no deadline for your trial to begin; it's entirely up to you.

 

THE TRIAL OF BJORN

True might is not in the strike that fells a foe, but in the arm that shields the weak, standing unyielding as a mountain against the storm. Strength is not just the power to crush, but the courage to rise for others, to bear the weight of many and stand when all else would fall.

 

Spoiler

The Trial of Bjorn focuses on physical strength and the ability to protect our people. For generations, Scyflings have participated in the game of Kamp, where two Scyflings fight on a platform until one is pushed off. In this trial, a new element is introduced. A bound strawman is placed in the middle of the platform, and the trial taker must protect the strawman while trying to push their opponent off the platform. If the strawman falls off, the trial taker must start over. The trial can be attempted thrice, each attempt consisting of three rounds. Winning just one round is enough to pass the trial.

 

OOC NOTE

Scyflings and Highlanders tend to respect strength more than most human groups, but it's not the only thing that matters. I wanted to include something fun that shows this, while also conveying that even if a character is more of a bookworm, they are still a Highlander and can at least fend for themselves in some way. To me, the idea of "if you can't protect what you love, then you aren't worthy" is an ideal most Highlanders try to live up to. This trial is trying to reflect that in its purest form. Though obviously, a person will have to stand in to play the role of the strawman for the PVP mechanic to work.

 

THE TRIAL OF KOMRI

A single tree may stand tall, but a forest weathers the fiercest winds; true strength is found when hearts and hands join as one. Victory is not claimed by the lone warrior, but by those who fight as brothers, each lending their strength so that all may rise.

 

Spoiler

In this trial, the aspirant is to gather two scyfling companions and enter the depths of the woods, where they will hunt an apex predator. They may use any means available to them in nature, and each may bring a weapon, choosing between a sword, spear, axe, or bow. If the bow is selected, only five arrows will be given. It is considered a failure if the hunt is unsuccessful within three days. This may be attempted twice before disqualification.

 

OOC NOTE

The three days here are just for narrative purposes and don’t mean literally three days IRL. The hunt will be RP’d out and overseen by either the leader of House Colborn or someone they designate.

 

THE TRIAL OF DAGR

The deepest truths are not found in the stars above, but in the quiet depths of the soul; only those who seek within will find the light to guide their way. Greatness is not a gift bestowed, but a flame kindled from spirit, nourished by patience and the courage to see oneself truly.

 

Spoiler

No more marvelous feat exists than overcoming one's own fears. In this trial, a Scyfling Seer will induct the trial taker into a spiritual journey where they must confront their own fears. Should one fail to overcome them, then one must face them again until such a time as one can. While this may take several attempts, it is important that the challenger is left room and time to grow. One cannot overcome one's past without building a future.

 

OOC NOTE

This is just a cool concept for character development and failure is encouraged so that you can spend time building up RP reason and logic for why you succeed. It is also an opportunity to work with Scyflings to have them help you on this journey, bringing you to a place that makes you capable of overcoming these obstacles. Ideally you should face three fears and each successive fear you overcome can be considered a milestone.

 

THE TRIAL OF ANADAN

True wealth is not measured in gold, but in the bonds of kinship; a leader’s heart beats strongest when it beats for their people. A kingdom’s strength lies not in its walls, but in the trust and unity of those within; to lead is to treasure every soul as if it were your own.

 

Spoiler

 

Spoiler

 

The future Prince or Princess of Slesvik is expected to demonstrate good decision-making and problem-solving skills, similar to how Anadan protected his people. To assess these abilities, representatives from the Scyfling Clans will ask the trial taker two questions based on a scenario that requires an immediate solution. The High Chief will review all responses and decide if the trial has been passed. Should the trial taker have failed the High Chief will provide reasonings as to why. The trial can be attempted twice before disqualification.

 

OOC NOTE

Scenarios are presented in the following style: “An avalanche has recently decimated the countryside. Two families are buried below the snow. You don’t know where they are located. How do you save them?” “You have five men who are gravely injured and only two men who are not. The five men will need a healer as soon as possible. What would you do in this situation?”

 

 

THE TRIAL OF SIGRYN

Justice is a blade that cuts through shadow; to wield it with conviction is to be the light that evil fears. True justice does not waver in the face of darkness, for it is forged in the fires of resolve and strikes where no wrong can hide.

 

Spoiler

Sigryn was obsessed with justice above all else. However, one must be able to differentiate truth from lies to deliver justice. To prove their capability, the aspirant is presented with three men or women accused of having committed the same crime. They must then find the true culprit based on the evidence and any questions posed to the accused. The accused needn’t answer any questions honestly. This trial may be attempted twice before disqualification.

 

OOC NOTE

This somewhat reflects a circumstance that might happen IRP as a leader and also showcases the temperament of the one trying to become the Prince or Princess. Not to mention, who doesn’t like a murder mystery?

 

THE TRIAL OF VALKAN

To embrace destiny is to face the storm head-on, unyielding, for the fearless heart knows that the path forward is carved by those who dare to tread it. True courage lies not in avoiding failure, but in rising to meet the same challenge again and again, for even the fiercest waves break against the unbroken will.

 

Spoiler

Since the days of Anadan, the leaders of the Principality have ridden the white Anawise horse; it is born only once in a hundred among its black kin. The horse is wild and unruly, holding itself in high regard. It is as difficult to mount as a bull and even harder to tame. The horse carries a will and pride unlike any other. With each fall, one must try again, and with each dismissal, one must attempt new ways to catch its fancy. But ultimately without its recognition, one can never be considered worthy of Slesvik.

 

OOC NOTE

The leader of House Colborn or someone assigned by them will RP out the horse. This may take a while, perhaps even several sessions. Ideally, this is a life partner with whom you should build a relationship. It is not only a symbol of Slesvik and the seat akin to that of the Andelorn circlet but also a rallying cry. As amongst the black Anawise the white horse stands out, clearly distinguished.

 

FACING THE THREE

Upon the completion of the Trials, the victorious Prince or Princess is to be brought before the founding three of Clan Kolburanaz (House Colborn). Present are to be any members of the Clannting that wish to lay witness to the occasion. While the Prince or Princess is kneeling, the Andelorn Circlet is to be placed upon them by the Colborn Patriarch or Matriarch. In such a way, the Title is given, and the Prince or Princess swears the following Oath of Slesvik:

 

Spoiler

“I kneel humbly before those who came previous, those who tread before me, before the pathmakers. I kneel where great men and women have knelt and hold three promises in my heart.”

 

“To Sigryn the Black, I promise to be merciless against those who would bring harm to the Scyflings, and not one shall be allowed my mercy, not one shall evade my justice.”

 

“To Valkan the Reckless, I promise to carry the spirit and ambition worthy of my station, to never once grow lazy or negligent in my duties, to boldly forge ahead, even in the most dire of times.”

 

“To Anadan the Wise, I promise to protect the hearts of his people and descendants, to guide them and shepherd them with care and wisdom. To be their foundation so that their roots may never go untended.”

 

“May you all lay witness, and may GOD strike me down should I ever fail to uphold my promises.”

 

 

A depiction of Petyr I facing the three upon completing his Trials.

 

THE DUTIES OF THE PRINCE OR PRINCESS OF SLESVIK

The Prince or Princess of Slesvik has many duties befitting their station. Not only are they to live and represent the Scyfling way, but they are likewise to lead the Clannting and ensure its success and safety. Any failure of the Scyflings has settled squarely on their shoulders and theirs alone. Men and women are only as good as their leaders. It is, therefore, paramount that the Prince or Princess ensure the continued success of the Clans. While harrowing to some, anyone capable of completing the trials should surely welcome the challenge. But each holder is likely to approach their station differently; some are warriors, some are of the pen, and many variations exist between them. But one thing is true amongst them: they, and they alone, wear the Andelorn Circlet.

 

 

The Andelorn circlet of Slesvik is crafted from the finest lunarite and fire opals of the Curzsken Highlands.

 

 

 

THE CLANN AETENING

The Clann Aetening, or as it is most commonly called, the Clannting, is the meeting of all Scyfling Clans. Here, any matters of import are discussed and decided. These may range from issues of honor to direction and various rites and ceremonies that may be observed or called upon. It is often followed by a grand feast where the Clans make merry. If you wish to read further on the structure of the Clannting, you may do so HERE.

 

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THE PRIVILEGES OF THE CLANNTING

 

DECLARATION OF VERKRIG

The Clannting declares a Verkrig or Vengeance War if a great foe or enemy of the Clans needs their collective effort to be slain. Such a declaration is not taken lightly, and from such a day, it is the Scyflings priority, above all else, to complete this task. You can read more about Verkrig HERE.

 

CALLING THE LEIDANG

The Scyflings, by nature, are adventurous and seek it both for thrill and to sate their curiosity. Thus, The Clannting may call upon all the Clans through a Leidang to embark on an expedition or excursion by sea or land. While not all Scyflings must participate, each clan is expected to present one man or woman and offer resources that might aid in the endeavor. Longships are often constructed or readied for the Leidang; if you wish to learn more, you can read HERE.

 

CALLING THE VILDJAKTR

The Clannting will often call a Vildjaktr or Wild Hunt as it is called in common. As the name implies, these are grand hunts of honor, glory, and prestige that any Scyfling might participate in. They are often called to feed the Clans or prepare for feasts and seasonal festivals. The most successful hunter is allowed the glory of blowing the great Kroghorn at the next Clannting. If you wish to read more about the Vildjaktr, you may do so HERE.

 

SVAERDKLANG SEREMONI

Since the days of the Curzken Highlands, the Scyflings have had their women and men carry the sword as warriors. To ensure strength never fades and that their blades remain sharp, the Clang of Swords, or the Meeting of Blades as it is commonly called, is set up. It is here that warriors might challenge each other and showcase their prowess. The final victor and champion is made Lendmann of Polaris, and a runestone is erected in their honor. If you wish to read more about the ceremony and what the position Lendmann of Polaris entails, read HERE.

 

SKEPMAKERI SEREMONI

Leidang takes a heavy toll and needs ships worthy of the sea that are strong enough to stand against its tests and many challenges. To ensure such is the case, the Skepmakeri Seremoni, or Shipbuilding Ceremony, as it is commonly called, is observed. Likewise, there are times when significant Scyfling figures that have passed on to the afterlife must be put to rest through boat funerals. To address these matters, the Clannting will request that artisans among the Scyflings present their designs and vessels before them during the next meeting. The three foremost ships and their respective makers are rewarded handsomely. If you wish to read more about the specifics of this ceremony, you can do so HERE.

 

[sarahbarah 7105]

epic julius lore

[Laeonathan 5891]

Spoiler

nice writing

 

[_RoyalCrafter_ 5285]

Magnus the Scyfling travelled to Kazan to get ready to mingle with his bretheren, he pondered heavily upon the trials that lay ahead of him.

[erictafoya 3276]

 

In the highest tower of Kastell Lesanov a boy with no direction looked upon the stars, pondering what his destiny was.