ErosTea

The old crone-princess read the missive with tender spotted hands under candlelight as her mind thought fondly of her long since passed husband's love for hunting.

Cordelia Claudine raised the visor from the helmet that was too large for her young head. She looked up toward her mother's cold gaze that stared toward the horizon as they rode onward. Where will we go now? She wanted to ask her mother, but a voice within her chided the silly question. She knew what her mother would say. The young Stassion bit her tongue as she held tightly onto her mother's back. "A dragon cannot be consumed by fire, it only burns brighter." She said to herself quietly. And the fire within her sparked anew.

T W E L V E D A Y S O F T U V M A S A Tuvmas Carol, penned by Princess Charlotte of Aaun 16th of Godfrey's Triumph, 1955 On the first day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me A Waldenian walrus. On the second day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Two golden keys And a Waldenian Walrus On the third day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Three Auvergn hens Two golden keys And a Waldenian Walrus On the fourth day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hen Two golden keys And a Waldenian Walrus On the fifth day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus. On the sixth day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Six cups a-barley, Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus. On the seventh day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Seven alms for giving, Six cups a-barley, Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus. On the eighth day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Eight smiths a-smelting, Seven alms for giving, Six cups a-barley, Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus. On the ninth day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Nine ladies praying, Eight smiths a-smelting, Seven alms for giving, Six cups a-barley, Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus. On the tenth day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Ten ships a-sailing, Nine ladies praying, Eight smiths a-smelting, Seven alms for giving, Six cups a-barley, Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus. On the eleventh day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Eleven farmers reaping, Ten ships a-sailing, Nine ladies praying, Eight smiths a-smelting, Seven alms for giving, Six cups a-barley, Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus. On the twelfth day of Tuvmas My true love gave to me Twelve Aaunites singing, Eleven farmers reaping, Ten ships a-sailing, Nine ladies praying, Eight smiths a-smelting, Seven alms for giving, Six cups a-barley, Five leather books, Four holy scrolls Three Auvergn hens, Two golden keys And a Waldenian walrus.

Charlotte Henrietta knelt beside the cold body of her sister as she wept. She confided with her one last time. "I fear that death makes a mockery of me sweet sister..." she spoke softly. "It has taken everyone around me and the walls are beginning to close in. I can feel it chasing me, and yet I continue to run. I know not for how long until my legs will give out." She grabbed her sister's stiff hand, caressing the rings that sat on her fingers. "It seems so long ago that we were girls once. Back in Vienne everything seemed so new... when time was a distant friend." Charlotte's eyes drifted toward the air next to her, visions of death surrounding her. "And now it seems you two have been acquainted." Charlotte laid a kiss on Anna's forehead, before signing the Lorraine. "Sweetest sister, you join Sigismond now. Tell Ottomar I miss him dearly for now you are with all that I have lost. Father, and mother, and James, and..." She'd trail off listing those that had ascended without her.

Username: ErosTea RP Name: Cordelia Adina Claudine Stassion Persona Id: #83300

Charlotte Henrietta signs the lorraine at the end of her grand-nephew's great slumber. "Blessed be, the line of Alstion is strong!"

"It seems blood runs so freely, perhaps we should begin painting streets red." Charlotte Henrietta said to herself quietly as she read the missive perched from the stark halls of the Hand of Horen.

Charlotte Henrietta began writing a monologue to represent King Adrian's response. "Oh, how quickly he seeks to remove any accountability from the situation! Woe to all queens, when she tries it is not enough and when she fails it is by all accounts her fault! Woe!"

Charlotte Henrietta began to write a play called 'Real Housewives of Aevos' inspired by her own life and this new scandal which speaks to the plight of the women of Aevos.

Charlotte Henrietta closed the doors to her quarters quietly. A scream could be heard throughout her home as she clawed at her neck and tore off her fine garments. She'd lock her doors, refusing anyone to enter, nor food or drink. She only chose to lay in her bed, their bed, longing for something now gone.

"I was beginning to think you had been taken to the seven skies!" Charlotte Henrietta cried out as she entered into the main hall of Castle Aurelian, several long scrolls of plans for a new city nestled between her arms. "It is time we resume our great work here."

So this is how liberty dies... with thunderous applause.

Charlotte Henrietta, during a routine checkup on the Queen Mother, ordered the guards stationed at the Queen Mother's door to let her in. Upon her entrance she found the room vacant--as if the wind had swooped in and taken her niece-in-law away. There was an open chest with missing jewels, a half eaten loaf of bread, and a stool facing freedom, though everything else had been left almost untouched. Her heart pounded in her chest, but not because she had failed at some internal duty toward the King's justice, but because a small part of her was proud that the Queen Mother had chosen her own path, whether it was at the bottom of the watry rocks below or somewhere in the wilderness, she was strong. She turned around and headed outside of the room, closing the doors carefully behind her. She'd whisper to Baldrick to find the body and signed the lorraine. "GOD be with her, wherever she may be."

A Stassion guard somewhere in Stassion "AVE STASSION!"

The aging princess, Charlotte Henrietta, reads the missive perched from her office. "Hmf. The Novellen name is no longer, hopefully this will shut up the pompous Balianese impostors."

ErosTea Helaena Aeramor #83300

Charlotte Henrietta picked up the missive, reading over the candidate. "Finally, my city will have someone to lead it..."

Lucia Marie eagerly awaited her brother's wedding as she read the missive. She began to search for a gift for the couple promptly.

Charlotte Henrietta sent for her lady and waiting to call for a tailor as she read the paper, seeking to update her wardrobe.

𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝕬𝖆𝖚𝖓𝖎𝖈 𝕳𝖊𝖗𝖆𝖑𝖉 WHAT IS GOING AAUN? 4 Snow’s Maiden, 1927 Imperial Age Vol. I, Issue I 𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 Printed Carving of Whitespire. Leo Vici, 1927 Imperial Age Rising from the conquered Frankish aboriginals of Aevos, the Hand of Horen, a shining beacon, pierces through the sky. The great Owynflame burns as a beacon of hope for the good Canonist Aaunites who shall inhabit this land. This city, deemed Whitespire by His Royal Majesty, King James Leopold, marks a new era for the good people of Aaun that some are beginning to call the Charlignian Renaissance. Designed by the late King Charles’ daughter, Her Highness, Charlotte Henrietta, the city features numerous tributes to King Charles, specifically, King Charles’ Square which holds a golden Charlie perched atop a fountain. Aligned with the late King Charles’ vision for the city, the city boasts a colorful atmosphere that promotes the arts and education. Before the construction of the city, the surveyors of the land found several manuscripts featuring plays in three virtues; comedies, satyrs, and tragedies. Wanting merriment for the people of Aaun, Bonnie King Charles decidedly set for a theater to be built. The Plane, Whitespire’s theater, is now a home for these refound manuscripts. While no playwright has directly taken up the charge of translating these manuscripts into more suited liturgical dramas for the Aaunic populace, word has spread of a rising writer by the name of Wilhelm Tremblesquare. Under the tutelage of the late King Charles, Whitespire also features The Hall of the Royal Society of St. Godwin, a large building dedicated to the learning of the Aaunic people and funded by the crown. We had the chance to speak with the Seneschal of Aaun, HRH Adeline of Aaun, and here’s what she had to say about it, “The first Aaunic Public Library, which is, in part, funded by the de Lewes and Aldersberg family collection has opened doors for literacy across the United Kingdom of Aaun. But that’s not all we wanted to accomplish, the Royal Academy of Aaun furthers the education of those who seek it.” The Royal Academy is currently taking applications for the autumnal semester. In a few months time, King James Leopold will be officially crowned in the Basilica of the Four Exalted, an affair extended to all good Aaunites. This coronation will mark the beginning of a new age of Aaun as King James Leopold becomes the first king to rule over Whitespire. 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 A Look Into Fashion Printed Carving of Aaunic Ladies. Leo Vici, 1927 Imperial Age A culmination of Auvergnian, Petrine, and traditional Alstion attire, the Charlignian fashion is one well suited for the warm coastal weather of Whitespire. Unlike our predecessors of Vienne, who sported silhouettes that accentuated the body, the Charlignian fashion rather chooses more humble styles that highlight the face, which was made in the likeness of GOD. To talk about Charlignian fashion could not be done without mentioning the contributions of the Queen Mother, Eleanor of Provins, as seen below. A Young Eleanor of Provins. Leo Vici, c. 1874 Imperial Age For women, the base of fashion begins with a linen chemise. Usually simple, some chemises are embroidered with flowers native to Aaun for personal style. Next is a full-length dress usually made out of wool but often silk is sought out by women of higher status. Wine reds, bright yellows, and mellow blues are popular for Aaunic women usually as solid colors with light decorations. For lowborn Aaunic women, the fashion would end here alongside a basic veil covering their hair or wrapped around their face. As we move along the social ladder, it is quite common for an Aaunic woman to wear an “outer coat.” Usually this outer coat has long hemmed sleeves, open at the arms to show off one’s dress. This outer coat is bound at a low waistline and often decorated with religious iconography and golden accents if one could afford it. After marriage, an untitled Aaunic woman is expected to don short veils that cover typically braided hair. The veils are practical for a long day’s work while remaining fashionable with the rest of the populace. For titled Aaunic women, it is typical to see more intricate hair designs and headdresses. A Sketch of Aaunic Courtiers. Leo Vici, 1972 Imperial Age For true highborn Aaunic women that frequent court it is common to wear outer coats adorned with gems and patterns. What makes the highborn women of Aaun standout is the long and gorgeous capes they wear which are sometimes attached to their outer coats or stand as separate pieces brought together by a brooch. Though the Aaunic fashion continues to evolve, the trends of the time are usually spearheaded by the queen consort and her flock. A group of Aaunic Men. Leo Vici, 1972 Imperial Age For Aaunic men, the fashion starts off similarly. Beginning with a linen chemise, the attire is then built up with a doublet. The doublet is a somewhat long woven piece often tailored and belted at the waist giving the effect of a skirt. It usually has puffy arms creating the appearance of a very large torso. Underneath the doublet, men’s legs are covered by stockings. For highborn men, the attire is usually accompanied by a silk overrobe that extends past the doublet. Necklaces are often popular for men in positions of power. Some Aaunic men choose to wear hats but often wear their hair short anyway. 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐧𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝! Breaking News A Sketch of the Attack. Leo Vici, 1972 Imperial Age Last week a high ranking Baliante official was kidnapped outside the city gates of Whitespire! Local eyewitnesses say that Adrian forces were responsible for this random act of terror. While the Aaunic Herald cannot confirm the identity of this official, it is currently believed to be Franz Arthur of House Sarkozic. We are in the process of getting in contact with Franz Arthur and will keep you updated as the story unfolds. For now, we urge the good GOD-fearing citizens of Whitespire to remain on high alert while traversing outside the city. Our experts at the Aaunic Herald believe that Franz was mistaken for an Aaunic official, but the question remains who? Was this truly a random act of aggression or a failed coordinated attack? If you have information on this attack, you can reach out to our offices. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 An Aaunic Nun, unknown. In other news, the Judite Order has begun construction of the Abbey of St. Jude which is attached to the Chapel of Our Lady of Paradisius in the Southeast ward of Whitespire. The abbey, dedicated to the education of young Canonist girls and the caretaking of the adjacent chapel, is led by Mother Anna. Sporting views of the water and overflowing gardens, the Abbey is the epitome of tranquility and will bring you closer to GOD. The charitable works of the Judite Order extend beyond the confines of the Abbey. The Abbey is currently accepting any and all donations including food and minas to be redistributed to the poor and those in need. Mother Anna is also in search of sisters willing to take the cloth and ready to spread the good word. For more information, contact Mother Anna @gohliadabout joining the order today. 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐚𝐮𝐧 "Hear ye, hear ye! Let it be known throughout the land that the Legion of Aaun has been resurrected, sworn to protect the King of Aaun and these Heartlands of Aaun.” The Aaunic Herald backs the Legion of Aaun. Join today and fight alongside our brothers and sisters. Contact HRH Henry, the Lord Commander of Aaun, for more information about how you can get involved @Frymark. We have built and struggled for our homeland, it is time we defend it. GOD be with us. 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐞 Print of Chapel of Our Lady of Paradisius. Leo Vici, 1972 Imperial Age The first Aaunic wedding approaches quickly. The union of Fernand Auguste and Amelia Paulina will join together the houses of de Lewes and Varoche. The ceremony is set to take place in the Chapel of Our Lady of Paradisius a week after the festival of St. Tobias (Friday June 9th, 7:00 PM EST). The merry couple asks that you come and support their matrimony @Matheaww@ydegirl. 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭 Lemon Hill. Leo Vici, 1972 Imperial Age Construction begins for Lemon Hill. Perched atop a hill lays the foundation for a future monastery. The members of Lemon Hill are in search of donations to help construct their future home, a place without title and learning for all. If you’re searching for a way to contribute, contact Morgan of Angren @Fishy. 𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝕬𝖆𝖚𝖓𝖎𝖈 𝕳𝖊𝖗𝖆𝖑𝖉 𝑨 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐… 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒆 𝑳𝒆𝒘𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒄 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒅. 𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒄 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒅 or you have a story you want to share 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝑬𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒏 𝑪𝒉𝒊𝒆𝒇, 𝑳𝒖𝒄𝒊𝒂 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒆 @ErosTea, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒖𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒄 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒅.

"Why? Why must good men, perish? GOD-fearing men!" Lucia Marié cried, shaking her fists toward the sky. "Are we next?" She'd ask, turning to her husband, Emil Caius. "My God-" Charlotte Henrietta exclaimed as she read the official missive. Reading it over and over again she repeated to herself, "Let it not be true, let it not be true, tell me this can't be true." While tears did not fall from her eyes, she pleaded with her husband to let her go and see her sister despite his worries of the roads. "I must be with her! That was her husband! He was a father-" She clasped her hand against her mouth at the thought, "Oh, Ottomar..."

Lucia Marié gripped the cross that hung around her neck tightly as she looked over the missive. Setting the paper down, she'd turn to her husband. "They seek to destroy us," she started slowly. "GOD will not allow it. I will not allow it, they will not tarnish your white name, my love. When will it end?" She asked, her eyes pleading with the solemn gaze of her husband. "When Adria burns, GOD will have his vengeance." She added on quickly, answering her own question. She looked back to the paper and muttered a silent prayer; for Aaun, for her family, and for the poor girl caught in the crossfire of one man's foolish rebellion. "He will have vengeance."

A UNION of ALSTION and DE LEWES [!] A portrait of Prince Emil and Lady Lucia by Leo Vinny c. 1915 PROCESSION It is with due reverence that the Houses of Alstion and de Lewes announce the matrimonial union between Prince Emil Caius Alstion and Lady Lucia Marié de Lewes. After the Prince’s long voyage, he has returned home, and in doing so he has claimed the young Lady Lucia as his bride. The ceremony is to take place at the chapel of St. Lucien in Chateau de Lucienne in the Barony of Virdain on the 16th of Tobias’ Bounty, 1916. Alstion guards will be stationed along the Kings’ road to ensure safe passage for all guests and the Chateau will be wrapped by personal guards under the de Lewes banner. The Houses of Alstion and de Lewes understand that these are dire times, so in a, somewhat, unorthodox fashion we have decided to do a Military Wedding. We encourage all guests to don their best armor but do leave all weapons at the door. After the ceremony is concluded the wedding procession will be held in the dining room of Chateau de Lucienne for a hearty banquet. Fine wines and cheeses from Henriette’s Winery, here at the Barony of Virdain, will be provided in surplus. In a time of sorrow in which kinsmen fight kinsmen, we dutiful denizens must remain steadfast in our dedication to our heritage, culture, and happiness. GOD save the King. Formal Invitations to the peerage of the United Kingdom of Aaun, His Royal Majesty, Charles I, Sovereign of Aaun, and his royal pedigree @seannie His Highness, Ottomar von Alstreim, Prince of Merryweather and the Rhine, and his noble pedigree @Ramon His Highness, Robert II de Joannes, Prince of Sedan, and his noble pedigree @yopplwasupxxx His Grace, Brandt Barclay, Duke of Minitz, and his noble pedigree @MadOne The Right Honourable, Louis II de Rosius, Margrave of Haute-Epine, and his noble pedigree @rep2k The Right Honourable, Phillipa von Reuss, Margravine of Velen, and her noble pedigree @ncarr The Right Honourable, Jan Ivanovich, Count of Vaska, and his noble pedigree @Optimus420 The Right Honourable, Sigismond Varoche, Count of Varoche, and his noble pedigree @Enlightenment The Right Honourable, Emir Rosius-d’Abbassia, Count of Pacidia, and his noble pedigree @exoo The Honourable, Cosima von Augusten, Viscountess of Hohengarten, and her noble pedigree @Frank_Dog The Honourable, Fernand de Lewes, Baron of Virdain, and his noble pedigree @Matheaww The Honourable, Ulfra Ragmarsson, Baroness of Alsace, and her noble pedigree @candyzeroyal The Honourable, Helwig von Bardenwig-Alstreim, Baron of Arentania, and his noble pedigree @Zqppy Formal Invitations to the Royal Government of Aaun, His Excellency, Bijan Gray, Chancellor of Aaun, and his household @Thatpyrodude His Excellency, Robert Jrent, Marshal of Aaun, and his household @cruzazul His Excellency, Bult Wick, Governor and Treasurer of Aaun, and his household @Nathan_Barnett36 Special Invitations go out to, Her Royal Highness, Elena Casimira, Princess of Balian, and her noble pedigree @Madyyy The Honourable, Franz Sarkozic, Viscount of Sapron, and his noble pedigree @Matheaww DIEU AVONS NOUS HER LADYSHIP, LUCIA MARIÉ OF THE HOUSE OF DE LEWES @ErosTea HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, EMIL CAIUS OF THE HOUSE OF ALSTION, PRINCE OF AAUN, DUKE OF BALAMENA @gavyn

Lucia Marié de Lewes beams proudly that her designs came to fruition. "Mon Dieu! It is more gorgeous in person, onto the next project!"

THE JULI c. 1780“A Young Selie boy" ORIGINS, FROM THE GROTTO The Juli find their start in the time of Horen - Though humanity traces their lineage from Horen, the Juli trace theirs from the Anointed Julia of Paradisus. In her most notable miracle, the Anointed Julia protected an expectant mother from the ails of corruption. There were, however, two miracles that day. The light that shone from the ring not only revealed the necromancer for what it was, but it also blessed the unborn bairn of the mother. Months later the mother would give birth to triplets; Ifiemi, mother of the Ifie, Selam, mother of the Selm, and Selassie, mother of the Selie. The girls born with deep black skin, hair, and eyes also came out of the womb with golden bands, a sign that they had been touched by the Anointed Julia. Ifiemi had a golden band around her waist, Selam around her left leg, and Selassie around her right arm. Once the triplets were of age they joined the Anointed Julia in Paradisus as her attendants and confidants. Ifiemi served as her protectorate, Selam her handmaiden, and Selassie her scribe. Eventually the triplets would each have triplets, and those children would each have triplets, and their numbers grew in size, all except for Selassie. After the death of their beloved holy mother, the Anointed Julia, the cult of Juli was formed and this is where the Juli get their name. Fearing persecution and with nothing left for them in Paradisus, the Juli fled the famed city in search for new lands. The light of the Anointed Julia led them to the Grotto of Merkai. As the Juli entered into this new land, the Anointed Julia closed the foliage behind them and hid them from those who would seek to do them harm. c. 1620 “Anointed Julia, Protectorate of Merkai” The light of Anointed Julia stood foot at the gates of Merkai. Though they were isolated, the few pure-hearted outsiders, Canonist or not, who did not wish to do the Juli harm could spot the Anointed Julia’s golden rings in the Peacock feathers and sunflowers that marked the gates of Merkai. At the center of the Grotto of Merkai stood a large bubbling spring that met the sea. It was here that the Anointed Julia came to Selassie and pointed out the origins of her birth. It’s said that the Anointed Julia had emerged from the gurgle of the water with drops of pure light dripping from her figure. It was here that the first gift was given. Selassie entered the waters of Merkai and re-emerged renewed and youthful again. What she did not know was that she also grew pregnant. In her palm she held the mother of pearl, a large iridescent white stone that represented Tranquility, Purity, and Governance. c. 1620 “Birth of Anointed Julia” The Juli, free from their plight, sought to make a home for themselves in the Grotto of Merkai. They built domed homes and towers in the style of Paradisus, but they forgot one thing. One night, a group of leopards strolled into their settlement. As screams let out, Ifiemi and her children and children’s children sprang into action. They soared their large spears through the black of the night, killing all the leopards but one. Spear nor sword could not pierce the hide of this white leopard. This is when the Anointed Julia gave her second gift. A light shined down on the White Leopard, setting the creature on fire instantly. The only thing remained was its white hide, which could not be pierced by any man made tool or weapon. The hide represented Reverence, Protection, and Strength In celebration, the Juli held their first traditional feast: the feast of leopards. Here they danced, drank, and ate in merriment. During the feast it began to rain, casting Merkai into darkness as it extinguished every lamp and fire. The rain slowly turned into a storm as strong winds and gray clouds rolled into Merkai. Selam, refusing to let the weather destroy their festivities, kindled a torch to re-light the lamps of Merkai. As she raced into the thick of the storm from lamp to lamp while her flame dwindled, a loud boom could be heard throughout Merkai. The torch erupted into a large column of fire that was impervious to rain and storm. This was the Anointed Julia’s third and final gift: the eternal flame, which represented Resilience, Harmony, and Progress. With the three gifts from the Anointed, Selassie, Selam, and Ifiemi became the three beloved: defenders and founders of Julianism. One night, Selassie received a vision from the mother of pearl: flee. When the undead spread across Aegis, Merkai was one of the last places still standing, but they did not stop them from permeating the thick foliage in search for death. Selam lit fire to the Grotto with the eternal flame, destroying Merkai and the undead that had overran it. Ifiemi used the white hide as a raft for the Juli to escape on. And Selassie used the mother of pearl to guide a way to new lands. It was here on the raft that Selassie gave birth to Inan. With the birth of Imani, GOD delivered the Scroll of Divulgence to the Juli. Since then, the Juli have forever hidden themselves from Horen and his men. Though the Grotto can never be restored, they now take comfort in the isles that dot the coastline of each new land they arrive to. Their black towers and homes, reminiscent of Paradisus, appear to be rock formations jutting out of the water, but if you listen closely you can hear singing at night. CHURCH OF JULIARD The Church of Juliard is a monotheistic religion. Julinists believe in the one true living GOD who is the all-father and creator of the universe. Julinists recognize that he is the innate source of good and those that practice good deeds follow the virtues set by GOD. Despite the earnest virtues of some heretics and pagans, this will not earn them a voyage into the Seven Seas alongside GOD as they will be sent to the vast, a perpetually dark desert where damned souls die. Those who do practice and adhere to the wisdom of GOD will gain a voyage into the Seven Seas. Within Julinistic faith, the Seven Seas is depicted to be the far horizon where the sky meets water, while the vast is an intermediate space where souls eventually fade away. It is important to note, however, that Julinists do not seek out converts. The faith is passed down through the matrilineal line as the light was passed through the Beloved sisters. Those who wish to convert by their own will are accepted into the fold, but the light will not pass through them in the way it does for the Juli. Julinists practice Julianism, which is similar to Canonism but differs in interpretations of the first family of humankind. Though the races of Elves, Humans, Orcs, and Dwarves trace their lineage to the four sons of the first-coupling, Julianism highlights and prioritizes the sanctity of the Anointed Julia. The four sons came from GOD’s creation while the Anointed Julia came directly from GOD. The four sons and their lines were cursed while the Anointed Julia remained untouched. For this reason, it is clear she is anointed by GOD and the closest to purity. It is believed by Julinists that Julia is the daughter of GOD and thus was his to marry to Horen. Through marriage they are both venerated, but Julia is depicted as an extension of GOD on Eos and Aos whereas Horen is simply her husband. Their duties were shared but wholly different. Despite mistranslations, incorrect interpretations, and being cut entirely from Canon lore, the Church of Juliard mostly agrees with the scrolls. There is, however, a missing scroll that serves as the main doctrine for Julianism: the Scroll of Divulgence, which marks the Juli as GOD’s chosen people and saviors of humanity as they carry the light of GOD through the Anointed Julia. The Quattor is the place of religious worship for Julinists. A typical Quattor is a round domed (with a hole in the middle of the dome) room submerged into any body of water. At night, the waters will rise within the Quattor as the Moon stretches out over the Quattor. There are four spires attached to each Quattor, each spire holding an effigy of a Beloved. Carved from the blackest stone the Beloved Selassie sits in the north spire with a white stone held at her heart, the Beloved Selam sits in the west spire with a torch raised in the air, the Beloved Ifiemi sits in the east spire with a cloak draped over her, and the Beloved Inan sits in the south spire with a chalice at his heart. In the middle of the Quattor sits a wide hole in which kindling lit by the eternal flame is submerged by water yet still burning. c. 1680 “Saint Luliya” THE ANOINTED Ant. Julia - Golden Ring Patron of Marriage, Light, and Women Mother of the Juli THE BELOVED Blv. Selassie - Mother of Pearl Patron of Tranquility, Purity, and Governance Mother of the Selie Blv. Selam - Eternal Flame Patron of Harmony, Resilience, and Progress Mother of the Selm Blv. Ifiemi - White Hide Patron of Reverence, Protection, and Strength Mother of the Ifie Blv. Inan - Golden Chalice Patron of Priesthood, Childbirth, and Wisdom Revealer of the Scroll of Divulgence SAINTS St. Horen - Golden Laurel Revealer of the Scroll of Virtue Patron of Humanity, Covenants, Men St. Adamma - Whetstone Patron of Labour, Craftsmen, and Builders St. Luliya - Golden Crown Patron of the Poor, Abandoned, and Vengeance BLESSED Bl. Owyn - Flaming Sword Revealer of the Scroll of Spirit Patron of Purity, War, and Fire Bl. Godfrey - Silver Scepter Revealer of the Scroll of Gospel Patron of Dominion, Glory, and Justice Bl. Sigismund - Iron Globus Cruciger Revealer of the Scroll of Auspice Patron of Clairvoyance, Wisdom, and Sight ISOLATION AND PROTECTION Though the Juli have rarely had much contact with other people, the Ifie are trained in various forms of combat. From spear wielding to the longsword, they are prepared to defend their faith and homeland. The favored weapon of the Juli are their circlets. Circlets are sharp circular hand-held weapons that come in a few different sizes. The hand circlet is used to slice and stab through close combat, the circlettes are thrown at long distances and cut through their victims, and the circline is a long pole with a curved metal head that acts in similar manner to a scythe. The metals vary in colors but typically take on a bronze-ish hue after undergoing a glazing process. c. 1700s The Juli are well versed in the manning and controlling of ships. Often frequenting water-heavy areas, it’s a necessary component of everyday life. Most children exit the womb knowing how to swim and quickly take to sparring in the shallow waters of beaches and lakes. Though their ships are not equipped with canons, they’re extremely light and fast giving them an advantage in travel time and getting away. Due to their reclusive nature, the Juli are rarely seen on horseback but have been seen with a leopard or two. THE SELIE, SELM, AND IFIE The Juli typically find themselves in warmer cultures near the ocean. While they enjoy the beautiful things of life, they understand that life is fleeting and would be ready to leave their possessions behinds in a moments notice. Men and women wear fairly loose clothing in layers, the more layers showing how wealthy you were. Head coverings are stylistic along with makeup. While jewelry is very common amongst the Juli, it is not ornately made into different shapes but comes in the form of bands. It would be uncommon to ever find a piece of jewelry not in the form of a circle. The Juli age like normal humans but retain their youthfulness for much longer as a 60 year old Juli could easily pass for 40. The Juli can be divided into three cultures that work into one functioning society. Though work is not restricted by these cultures, the tribe they’re born into is what they were “destined” to do. Tribes pass through the matrilineal lineage of families; depending on what tribe the mother was a part of determines what tribe the bairn would be a part of. THE SELIE, Our Leaders From Beloved Selassie The Selie are by-far the smallest group amongst the Juli. Typically taking on roles of governance, the Selie are political, religious, and local leaders. Due to their duties to Juli society, their main priority is in service of others. They rarely have children if at all and often marry outside of their tribe. The Juli are ruled by a monarchy which passes down to whichever elected kin the monarch chooses. While nobility isn’t a concept, there are esteemed families within the Selie that have large monopolies over certain sectors of government. Featurally, the Selie are known for their round faces and long locs of hair. Different hairstyles show off their families and heritage. Selies who go on to be priests have access to a special herb that turns their hair and sometimes eyes white. Like Selassie, almost all Selie have a scar in the shape of a band on their right arm as the birthmark is passed down. Very few are born with their bands being made of gold, those who are born with gold bands are said to be filled with more light than others. c. 1400 “First Queen of House Mann” THE SELM, Our Builders From Beloved Selam The Selm are the largest group amongst the Juli. Typically taking on artisan and craftsmen roles within society, the Selm are the backbone of the Juli economy. The Selm have the most freedom when it comes to their occupational status and are commonly known to travel amongst the line of Horen. With the Selm holding the knowledge of the outside world around them, they find interesting ways to make their money from selling secrets or even people. The Selm also act as the architects of Juli cities, which are designed after Paradisus so they say. Featurally, the Selm are known for their flat faces and round, short bodies. The Selm are the most adorned group as they gladly wear fine headdresses and jewelry. Like Selam, almost all Selm have a scar in the shape of a band on their left leg as the birthmark is passed down. Very few are born with their bands being made of gold, those who are born with gold bands are said to be filled with more light than others. c. 1700s “Portrait of Eskender Liya” THE IFIE, Our Protectors From Beloved Ifiemi The Ifie are the second largest group amongst the Juli. Typically taking on militaristic and sportive roles in society, the Ifie are the protectors of the Juli. The Ifie serve in the larger Juli guard but also work as mercenaries for hire. The Ifie are also extremely intelligent. Skilled in naval warfare, astronomy, and mathematics, the Ifie make formidable opponents on the battlefield and the war room. Many Ifie have chosen the route of scholars rather than warfare. Featurally, the Ifie are known for their slender frames and short deep red hair. The Ifie wear what is most comfortable for them but typically always wear some form of protection. Like Ifiemi, almost all Ifie have a scar in the shape of a band on their torso as the birthmark is passed down. Very few are born with their bands being made of gold, those who are born with gold bands are said to be filled with more light than others. c. 1780s “The Scholar, Makonnen Zuri” ARCHITECTURE Juli architecture is modeled after the city of Paradisus. It was a welt kept secret amongst the builders of the Selm tribe who had hoped that by building paths into the sea that they'd find a way to reach GOD. c. 1820 “Great Quattor of the Beloved Sisters” DIALECT The Juli pick up on languages quickly but always talk in a very particular way not similar to any other human. On top of them speaking very fast, they often over-enunciate consonants at the end of the sentence and often drop the r from various words. For example, a Juli would pronounce “Church of Juliard” as “Chutch of Juli-ed” PHRASES & WORDS Mo/M’ - My Asu Ashi - God Mama - Mother Baba - Father Liji - Child Hujambo - Hello Kwaheri - Bye Asu jambo - Good Morning Usu jambo - Good Night Asu - Day Usu - Night Moto - Beautiful Zaidi - More/Very Gawa - Go Asante - Thank you Karnibu - You’re Welcome Anu Chupi - Curse Word Jalme - King Jalkia - Queen Weupe - Outsider “ Asu jambo mo jalkia, we found weupe at the gates of usu. Good morning my queen, we found outsiders at the gates of night. ” NOTABLE JULI FAMILIES House Mann, Selie ruling family of the Juli. House Liya, Selm merchant family. House Zuri, Ifie family with skilled fighters and generals. Male Names Abai, Addisu, Afework, Ajani, Aklilu, Alimayu, Anbassa, Bemnet, Biruk, Cherenet, Dejen, Desta, Eskender, Fikru, Fikremariam, Gebre, Haile, Isayas, Jember, Kassahun, Kebede, Kidus, Lami, Makonnen, Mesfin, Neberu, Negash, Tafari, Yafet, Zelalem. Female Names Abeba, Akutasgm Amhara, Ayana, Belkis, Dinkinesh, Fana, Gelila, Genet, Genzebe, Habesha, Hamelmal, Hirut, Iniku, Jahzara, Kelile, Kelemi, Luliya, Marye, Mariam, Mihret, Negassi, Nebiri, Rahwa, Rebka, Samrawit, Sebie, Selam, Selassie, Taitu, Zeudi. OOC: If you have thoughts, suggestions, or are interested developing this culture further PLEASE reach out to me: erostea#3429