Quantumatics

"You, my aunt of eyes unbridled, of heart unphased and soul immortal, shall remain a beacon in the hearts of the Vasoyevi and all others blessed to have met you in their lifetime. Your wisdom was and shall forever be unparalleled, and now I wish only for rest unto your soul, for all the virtues you have imparted, and for all the ills you have endured. The Elucidated Prophet, the Shephard of the Vasoyevi- the mother I was never granted. Thank you for remaining true, for being a paragon of faith's true manifestation. And goodbye, until the day I see you soon again," Spoke the Despot Andrik Vasovic, heart shattered by the loss of his aunt. He kneeled within her bedchamber, arms clutching the woolen cloth that enveloped the Soothsayer's lifeless cadaver, the once enlightened glow of her yellow-green eyes having faded into grey.

Love you man, through everything we've seen and been through- good and bad. It's been a blast, and it's a shame things happen this way. Unto brighter endeavors.

The Despot nodded in approval as he looked from the window of his bedchambers at the Vasoyevi below, prancing about with cheer and anticipation as the missive was handed out across the city of Sava. "A glorious duma awaits," he'd remark with a wry grin. "I do hope no one arrives in ill hygiene, lest they be defenestrated."

The Despot lifted his hands to the sky in celebration, "The laws of the Despotate of Vasiyeva, codified! Za Vasiyeva!"

The Despot, Andrik Vasović, lifted the missive over to his betrothed, Zoya @Vi, with a wistful smile. "We have waited half a decade too long to hold this occasion, it seems. Though I bear no doubt that it will be a joyous one, cemented in the annuls of our people's history. May all within this realm attend, and may those beyond it do so as well!"

The Despot of Vasiyeva, Andrik Vasović, looked upon the missive with furrowed brows, shaking his head at its contents. His gaze then lifted up toward his High Envoy, confounded as he spoke. "To affirm my understanding of this shambolic affair, Sir Vulpe laid hands upon an elf within his own domain over a decade ago, outside of the realm of the Grand Kingdom, and then was called to court for it? Perhaps he should have made due to better act in accordance with Urguani law, but the very predication of his calling to a court is unsubstantiated and profoundly folly. I do hope this is soon amended."

"Blessed be the word of His Holiness! May Veziak prosper as a true rite of Canonism, and may I and my people remain steadfast in our piety and worship," proclaimed the Grand Duke, Andrik Vasovic, as he read the papal declaration.

"A pious visit, the Vasoyevi shall wait it dutifully," remarked the Grand Duke, reading the bull as he returned to his bed chambers late one night.

Grand Army of Vasiyeva Overview Hetman [The armor customarily adorning the Hetman] The designated Commander of the GAV, elected to his position by the Grand Duke himself, the Hetman is one proven unparalleled in the aptitude for command, organization, and martial combat. [Hetman Adrijan of Sava, Contact Radzig#5583 for Recruitment into any Unit] [Ratnik] [The Infantry Uniform of the Ratnik] Headed by the Hetman himself, the Ratnik make up the primary defensive and offensive force of the Grand Duchy of Vasiyeva. Train broadly to take up positions from guarding to offensive attack, these are well rounded soldiers familiar with any task or engagement. Master Sergeant This individual acts as the second in command to the Hetman. He’s tasked with assisting in the management of the Sergeants and commanding of the Footmen. When the Hetman is not present, the Master Sergeant has the ability to execute both assaults and measures as they see fit. Sergeant Sergeants are Ratnik that have proven their outstanding ability in both combat and leadership. They act as the Officers within the army, and are given the jurisdiction to lead patrols and missions in the Master Sergeant’s stead, should they be not present. These are hardened fighters, veterans of the Ratnik. Footmen The main fighting force of the Ratnik, the Footman is a standard soldier who has proven his combat capabilities. Such are competent with blades, spears, and axes. Footmen are tasked with patrolling the lands surrounding Sava and the city within its walls. Recruit An initiate within the forces, these individuals have yet to prove their worth within the Ratnik. They’re tasked with training for such through both traditional means and physical exertion. [Zagortsi] The Zagortsi make up the Heavy Infantry soldiers of the Grand Army of Vasiyeva, with the elite among them granted the honor of forming the Duke’s personal Cavalry. Renowned most particularly for having been raised as soldiers from birth, few among them are inducted above the age of sixteen. Descending, in history, from a line of guardsmen trained to defend the Vasoyevi caravans of yore, they’re known for their undying loyalty and combat ability. They are trained from birth to be the loyal servants of his Serene Grace, the Grand Duke, and are often those seen most closely to him upon the field of battle. Agha The leader of the Zagortsi force, renowned as an extremely loyal and capable leader. This individual is tasked with maintaining the physical abilities of the Zagortsi and ensuring the maintenance of their highly disciplined nature. Sergeant The elite among the Zagortsi, these Sergeants have passed through the Trial of Loyalty, proving themselves sworn fully and ultimately to the cause of service toward the Grand Duke. They are the most respected among the Zagortsi, and have endured a lifetime of training for their position. Footmen Footmen are the standard heavy infantry of the Zagortsi, completely dedicated to their purpose of combat, they are adorned with heavy chainmail and plate, and oftentimes bearing spears and greatswords. Recruit Often consisting of the young, recruits may be orphans, children captured in battle, or youth handed from the nobility who have passed their early life’s training to enter the ranks of the main Zagortsi. These recruits seek to pass their first trials before becoming Footmen. [Vanatori] [The respective light and heavy armoured variants of Vanatori] An evolution of the ancient Kȁjatci: the Vasoyevi huntsmen of yore, that dedicated their lives to the extermination of monsters after the defeat of the mythical Psoglav. Staunch foes of black magic and mythical beasts, the Vanatori are a specialist unit of the Grand Army tasked with the enforcement of magical and alchemical legislation, as well as protecting the borders of the Grand Duchy from all manner of supernatural threats. Unlike the other units of the Grand Army, each vanator is selected based on their capacity for hunting monsters and magi alike, as opposed to men. Often equipped to harness alchemy, magic or a combination of the two, the vanatori are a dangerous foe to those that would endanger Vasiyeva utilising such volatile arts. They are the Grand Duchy’s first port of call in the investigation, administration and prosecution in affairs pertaining to sorcery, potioncraft, and all manner of unnatural entities. Inspired by gallant shepherds, who protect their flock from wolves and other natural beasts, the appearance of the vanatori is kept distinct from other branches of the military by the addition of a șubă over their uniform; a heavy cloak made from the skin and fleece of several sheep. Such is worn to symbolise the vulnerability of all men ill prepared for the horrors of the unnatural world, and the fate of sheep that pay no heed to the wolves in their midst. Captain Cioban - The Shepherd The head of the vanatori, answerable only to the Hetman and the Grand Duke, the Cioban is responsible for overseeing all levels of the vanatori, as well as heeding the advice of the Grand Duchy’s Court Mage and Court Alchemist to ensure a high standard of tactics and equipment are harnessed by the vanatori at all times. Sergeants Ogari - The Hounds The sergeants of the vanatori, responsible for commanding the berbeci and mieli on hunts, investigations and expeditions as well as the recruitment of mieli from the population and their vanator training. Ogari are further empowered to promote mieli who have proven themselves into fully fledged vanatori personnel - the berbeci. Footmen Berbeci - The Rams The core monster hunting force of the Grand Army, the berbeci are fully recognised soldiers of His Serene Grace’s military, tasked with the day to day regulation of magic and alchemy as the Grand Ducal delegation deems fit, along with the discovery, capture and persecution of dark or dangerous sorcerers and unnatural beasts. Whilst it is expected for the berbeci to possess an aptitude for magic or alchemy, any who have proven themselves capable of defending the Grand Duchy from supernatural threats may be welcomed into its ranks. Recruits Mieli - The Lambs The initiates and aspirants of the vanatori, mieli is the rank typically afforded to those new to the ways of the vanator, who have yet to prove themselves. Their recruitment from the population, as well as their ascendance to berbeci, is overseen by the ogari, or in some cases the cioban themself.

So many hours of our lives, lost to the wind...

An End to Regency 23rd of Sun’s Smile, SA 29 Following an arduous bout with Consumption, His Serene Grace, the Grand Duke of Vasiyeva, the Prophesied One, Andrik Casimir Vasović, has made a swift and full recovery. Under the medical care of his Court Physician and Alchemist, Sir Vulpe Hazmezul, and succeeding a great deal of prophylactic treatments, his humours have been found completely balanced once more, and no further trace of emaciation remains. His spirit has, as well, been determined restored through the examinations of the Sigismundaroșie. Returning now to his throne to rule, his Serene Grace’s regency has been declared at an end, and her Ladyship, Ursula Vasović, has been relieved of her service. Za Vasoyevi! Za Andrik Casimir! Grand Duke of Vasiyeva, Patriarch of House Vasović, The Prophesied One, Defender of the Vasoyevi Sigismundaroşie of Fate and Faith, Matriarch of House Vasović, Izaslanik to the Granj Vojvoda of Vasiyeva

A REPLY TO AL-FAKHR [!] The falcon returns to its home in the oasis, another piece of parchment tied to its leg. The parchment bears the seal of the Izaslanik Vodoci of the Grand Duke of Vasiyeva, addressed to the Emir. If opened, it would read: Zdravo, may the blessings of Godan and his Exalted, Sigismund, fall upon you and may this letter reach you with good tidings. Now hear the response of His Serene Grace, Andrik Casimir Vasović, Grand Duke of Vasiyeva, Patriarch of House Vasović, the Prophesied One. For nigh one thousand years, the Vasoyevi have been a migrant people, forced to travel from place to place, hoping that doors would be open to us. Many times in our history, we have found those doors closed, those gates barred, those bridges raised. And there were times that, in our desperation, we attacked those closed beleaguerments. The consequences of those actions were clear, for those doors remained ever closed to us again. We have, therefore, become a tolerant people, ones that could not discriminate against the doors that were opened to us. We now stand land-bound, a Canonist state, and shall evermore remain unwilling to succumb to that very hypocrisy which caused my people such a virulent strife. For if we do, we shall be made no better men than those who barred us when we rode against them in desperation. The Konchak people once rode against us, and in defeating them in battle, I granted mercy through their fealty, a service that they themselves plead to offer. That service, in their years spent in fidelity, has proven steadfast. They pay unto us a blood debt, an oath they chose to make, and stand as guests and subjects within the Grand Duchy of Vasiyeva, secured under hospitium within our walls. Their service in battle and in protection of the crown has granted them their right to worship unhindered, so long as the laws of the land remain followed and maintained. It is no business of a foreign entity such as your Fakhr Tribe to demand of me such a heedless request. The squabble of theological schismatics is no affair of the Duchy, and to impose upon it these dealings in the manner of demand is an insult and disparagement. I recommend future actions be taken with more care and tact, and let it be known that, while they reside under our banner, any attack upon the Kadaksleri or indeed any other subjects of the Duchy of Vasiyeva shall be taken as an assault upon the Duchy itself and shall be dealt with accordingly. Grand Duke of Vasiyeva, Patriarch of House Vasović, The Prophesied One, Defender of the Vasoyevi Now hear the response of Ursula Soreana Vasović, Sigismundaroşie of Fate and Faith, Matriarch of House Vasović, and Izaslanik to the Grand Duke. As devout Canonists, we oft cite the Penance of Owyn when talking of apostates that break the Covenant of Purity. Let me tell you the story of my people, so that you will understand the decision that our leader has made this day. We were not always followers of the Canon, but began as pagans, worshipping the daemon Valaen and his dreaded creature, the Psoglav. We were a barbarous people in those times, committing acts against Godan and humans in Valaen’s name. Many were the people of these lands who called for our own to be cast to the wolves, for our backs to be broken, for our lives to be forfeited. If it were not for the mercy of people like Sava, Ileana, and Visilije, hallowed individuals within our culture, we would never have seen the light of Godan and changed from our pagan ways. Their conversion and subsequent evangelism changed us forever as a people. We turned away from sacrilege, towards ablution, and we slayed the Psoglav that held us in thrall to Valaen. In this, we were taught the ways of mercy. As my nephew, His Serene Grace, states, the Konchak people have guest right within our land. Let us be the Sava to their Višeslavić, for the Penance of Owyn is not the only path to those who do not see the light. It is not a host’s place, nor shall we demand conversion of those under our jurisdiction. It is our faith, in itself, that brings us to show tolerance and clemency. Sigismundaroşie of Fate and Faith, Matriarch of House Vasović, Izaslanik to the Granj Vojvoda of Vasiyeva

Can't really imagine who'd be a better fit as is

Andrik Vasović pressed his stirrups against the flanks of his prized steed, pulling back upon the rein and bringing the mighty beast to a halt atop an overpass. he gazed onward at Dragomir's Crossing, as the fallow ground was slowly cleared of its corpses and armaments by servants and soldiers alike. Standing at his side, amongst his dignitaries and Ratnik, were the Konchaks, consisting of a small horse-bound constituent of his retinue. "Serve me faithfully, and you shall find glory, integration, and tolerance," he'd remark plainly, his expression stoic and immovable. "Soon the lands shall fear the might of the Vasiyevan Army, and their fearsome Konchak Cavalry."

"A home for our people, a new chapter in our history, and in the history for all those who seek to join us. Soon, upon this soil, there shall stand a city regarded as a paragon of culture and learning. Of commerce and education. Soon upon this soil," the young Grand Duke spoke, each word laced with intent and determination. "There shall stand Sava."

The Vasoyevi Reformation Vasoyevi Folk Music The End of the Road As told by Ursula Vasović Come, child, and sit around the fire. I know that we are in confusing times. The nations of humanity are in turmoil. The church’s influence dwindles. Bandits, trolls, and petty rebellions roam the countryside. But the world has long been tumultuous and, through it all, we Vasoyevi have been there, weathering the storm. And we shall evermore. However, our Patriarch has seen a message for us, a duty and charge we must not put down. The Exalted has set us upon a new path, and it will lead us to success and glory. Fear not the unknown, child, for that is where our strength has always been tested. Have we been found wanting yet? Of course not. It all began with my husband, the last Patriarch of our caravan, Dragomir Niculae Vasović. He was a charismatic Patriarch, always willing to lend a hand to any other Vasoyevi. His charm and charity led many of the other caravans to merge with ours, until our caravan proved the largest among all the Vasoyevi. Even the Pavle, Petrović and Samardzic caravans integrated beneath the Patriarch. Truly it was a golden age for our people until tragedy, as assuredly as the tides do rise, struck our people. The Inferi assaulted Arcas, and its lands were decimated. Dragomir held us together in this time, and assisted us in the move to Almaris, but at a heavy cost. As we fled Arcas, during a heavy period of rain and sleet, several wagons were caught in the mud. Dragomir, being the kind heart he was, stayed with the carts, in the torrential rain, cold and mud, freeing it so that it could make its fair to the docks and give way to our escape. The effort caused Dragomir a great sum of duress, and he contracted an illness that only worsened during his time on the ships. He never truly recovered and, only a few years into our time on Almaris, the Patriarch of our caravan joined his ancestors in the Seven Skies. But there was another who was to fill his shoes, and his coming was heralded in the stars. The Prophesied One. Dragomir’s nephew was born in 1792. He was christened Andrik Casimir Vasović and, per our custom, his future was told upon his naming day. I performed it myself, as was my right as both Sigismundaroșie and Matriarch, and I have never read a future more auspicious. Andrik was marked by the Exalted Sigismund himself, born to be a leader and to guide our people into a grand future. Upon the passing of my beloved Dragomir, Andrik, though still a child, stepped in to fill his uncle’s shoes. [An Artistic Rendition of the Passing of Dragomir Vasović] He directed us to interact more with the world at large, making the Vasoyevi well known amongst the realms for the first time since their re-conversion to Canonism. He spoke to Kings and Cardinals, broke bread with Dukes and Princes, and he sought out the destiny given to him by GOD and the Exalted. He spent time in prayer, isolated save for me, asking GOD and Sigismund to reveal their plan for him. When he emerged from his isolation, body ragged with his fast, he knew what had to be done. He gathered the heads of the families of the caravan and told him that the time of the Vasoyevi to travel was over. He had seen a vision of a land in the east, a territory near to the Dwarves, that was destined for us. So he broke bread with the Grand King of the Dwarves, a treaty was signed, and for the first time in centuries, we once more had a home. He forced no Vasoyevi to settle with him, for long was freedom our prerogative, but he called for all Vasoyevi to join him in embracing a new way of life, liberated from the dangers and persecutions of the road. And so it was that we prepared to plant the Vasiyevan banner upon the ground. Our people were to forever change, and embrace a new future. With that great endeavor, that great purpose, the Grand Duchy of Vasiyeva was born. [The Vasoyevi People as they travel to their new home in the city of Sava] The Establishment of Vasiyeva The settled Vasoyevi had to adapt to the ways of the land-bound, and for the first time, form a government. But, for years, the caravans had leaders. The temporal head of the caravan was the Patriarch, and the spiritual guide was the Matriarch. A group, made up of the heads of the subservient families, was their advisors. So it was then and, though adapted slightly by land-bound tradition, so it would be now. The Granj Vojvoda and Vojvinja Vasiyeva would be ruled by a throne of two. The head of state would be the Grand Duke of Vasiyeva (“Granj Vojvoda”), acting as the Patriarch once did. His wife, the Grand Duchess (“Granj Vojvinja”) would continue to serve as the Matriarch did, leading the spiritual side of the Duchy, as well as administrating the court. They would be advised by a council of envoys (“Izaslanik”), chosen by the Grand Duke. Although each Isazlanik would be chosen for their particular expertise, to the outside world, they were merely the Duke and Duchess’ councilors, no one Isazlanik above the other in stature besides the Head Izaslanik, who supervises the council and their affairs. Succession The crown of the Granj Vojvoda would be passed to the eldest male son of the current Granj Vojvoda upon his passing. However, Vasiyeva bears an exception to strict primogeniture. As with the first Grand Duke, all future holders of the crown must be marked for rulership when born, as read by the Grand Duchess and the Sigismundaroșie. Bread, Salt, and Vows In a culture once without walls, guest right and hospitium were and are paramount for the Vasoyevi. As travelers once themselves, often relying on the hospitality of others for their survival, the Vasoyevi uphold these values greatly within their homes. Through the sharing of bread and salt, guest right is declared between host and guest, creating an expectation of protection and mutuality regardless of the social or economic status of either party. This tradition permeates all aspects of Vasoyevi life, from political dealings to the requests of a suppliant. Guests and foreign envoys to Vasiyeva are often given bread and salt upon arrival, a declaration invoking guest right mutually. The host is furthermore expected to provide a guest with some form of gift upon departure, oftentimes acting as an end to the sacred guest right. For the Vasoyevi, all travelers and strangers are regarded as under the protection of GOD himself by the virtue of the law of wanderers and suppliants, and are thus treated with a great sum of hospitality and respect. Guests too are expected to uphold these values, taking what is provided to them humbly and with great gratitude. Guest right, for long as it remains enacted, forbids the act of violence or ill-word between host and guest, lest one appear impious to GOD himself. Another interesting element of Vasoyevi culture is their lack of sacred vows. A Vasoyevi’s word alone is all the vow that is needed, for a broken vow by the Vasoyevi is always corrected (with appropriate recompense) by other Vasoyevi. Vasoyevi do not swear, not by the Exalted, not by GOD, not by his family or his own head. All they need to say is a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ This extends to the government as well. Vassals in Vasiyeva do not need to swear elaborate vows to the Grand Duke, merely state their allegiance, and any foreign power that does not trust the word of the Grand Duke does him a grave insult. Culture of the Land-Bound Vasoyevi While the people of Vasiyeva are no longer traveling, they are still Vasoyevi, and those centuries on the road will always be in their blood. Where once parties and festivals happened around the campfire, now they happen in taverns and squares. But they are still the same people. Where Slava was once celebrated wherever it could be held, it has now become the cultural event of the season in Vasiyeva, greater even than Tuvmas. Where the Sigismundaroșie once performed Caloianul to towns that requested it, they now do the ritual in their own town, ensuring good weather and harvests. Overall, the culture has not changed, the Vasoyevi simply have a home to express it in. Religious Practices in Vasiveya When traveling in their caravans, the Vasoyevi would spend many nights along the roads or in the lands of non-Canonist people. In these times where standardized worship became impractical for months, even years, the women of the caravan, led by the Matriarch, would not just lead the Vasoyevi in spiritual matters, but would also perform many of the roles taken up by the priests and other clergy, performing ablution in extremis, counseling their fellow members of the caravan, and giving readings and sermons from the holy texts. In Vasiveya, the need to perform these duties were expected to lessen once their land was granted a place within one of the diocese of the Canonist Church. However, traditions, as always among the Vasoyevi, die hard. Many of these duties continue to be practiced and there is even talk among some of the Sigismundaroșie to petition the church for their rituals to be recognized as official rites under Canonist doctrine. In recent years, women take up a role more akin to spiritual guides, with no claims to taking up positions in the clergy. [A young Vasoyevi consulting an older woman on spiritual matters] And, as always, the Sigismundaroșie, women blessed by the Exalted Sigismund’s mysticism, continue to play a large role in the religion of the Vasoyevi. They wield a strong affinity with herbalism, soothsaying & taming the temptations of man. Even land-bound, they continue to play the role of herbalist, brewer, and mystic within the Vasoyevi, often consulted before priests on matters of the heart and soul. Weddings and Funerals Vasoyevi weddings have several traditions that set them apart from the rest of Almaris. Many Vasoyevi families employ the use of matchmakers to find spouses for their children. While the matchmaker’s job was originally to travel from caravan to caravan and keep a list of eligible bachelors and bachelorettes, this tradition still occurs even among the land-bound Vasoyevi. [A matchmaker sitting with two brides] While the Vasoyevi have many traditions during ceremonies, three shine out as the most prominent and different from other cultures. First, the bride’s father places an apple at the top of a tall tree and the bride is not allowed to go to the wedding until the groom shoots the apple down with a bow or crossbow to prove that his aim is as true as his intention. Second, a kȁjatac, one of the famed monster hunters of the Vasoyevi, is often hired by the couple to watch over the preceding while armed. It is said that this keeps away the evil eye. Third, brides often wear a crown of flowers on their wedding to which prominent women of the caravan would tie ribbons to it, as a sign of their approval and to bless the bride with fertility and prosperity. Woe be it to a woman who gets married with no ribbons. One Vasoyevi tradition following death is that, while the body is buried quickly, the funeral service for the person does not occur until a year after the death. It is believed that if someone truly cared for that person in life, their funeral would still be worth attending one year after the event. During this funeral, a massive feast is prepared for those attending. Each person must toss a bit of their food and drink to the floor, for the dead, and it cannot be cleaned up until the event is completed. Often, men who loved the deceased greatly will refuse to shave their facial hair until the funeral is held, to show their devotion to the deceased. The Festivals of Vasiyeva The Vasoyevi revere the Exalted Sigismund above all the other Exalted and all the saints, and consider him to be the family’s protector and provider of welfare. His saint day in the liturgical calendar necessitates a time of great prayer and festivities in Vasiyeva, and is the social event of the season for the fledgling settlement. This celebration is called Slava. The celebration consists of the ritual offering of a blood sacrifice (usually a lamb or goat), along with a feast held for all subjects of the Granj Vojvoda. At a specified time during Slava, a specially designed candle is lit by the Granj Vojvinja, then wine is poured over a Slava cake, prepared and decorated by her, which is then cut crosswise by the Duke, rotated and broken into four parts and lifted up. During the ritual, thanks are given to the Exalted and prayers are said for prosperity. [A young Vasoyevi girl watching the lambs being prepared for Slava] A harvest Caloianul is done once a year in Vasiyeva during the late summer. Four clay dolls are made by a Sigismundaroșie in the form of the Four Exalted. A few drops of the Grand Duchess’ blood is mixed into the dolls, which are then baked. The baked dolls are paraded through the town with the entirety of the settlement participating and chanting prayers to GOD. They are then buried in the earth outside of town. After three days, the dolls are dug back up and thrown into the well of the village. It is said that this ancient festival ensures that the harvest will be bountiful.

Andrik Vasović smiled proudly upon the parchment, ink still wet upon his quill. "A new era for our people has come," he'd remark, turning to Franjo @Proddy. "With this treaty, the Vasoyevi rise."

Andrik Vasović ran his hand down the length of his hair, his visage bearing a troubled Grimace. "Da, how unfortunate," he'd reply to the Sigismundaroșie. "I suppose Radovan was rather unruly beneath his diplomatic stoicism, a man prone to indeterminable rage. Still, I remain confounded by the maintained accuracy of your predictions."

Settlement PRO MC Name: Quantumatics Settlement RO MC Names: MCVDK - Burnsider - Leyrin - ShannonLeigh - MalTM - shyFX_ Settlement Name: Grand Duchy of Vasiyeva Proposed Settlement Locations (Highlight 3 on the map): Proposal 1 (Tile_61): Proposal 2 (Tile_38): Proposal 3 (Tile_39): Settlement Lore: For years, the Vasoyevi were a migrant caravan people, and never made much of a name for themselves due to that. However, the leader of their most prodigious caravan, Andrik Casamir Vasović, was marked at birth by the Vasoyevi soothsayers as having a great vision for the future of the Vasoyevi. That vision was to, for the first time in centuries, find a land and home for them. He would not coerce any of the Vasoyevi to settle with him. Freedom upon the roads was always their choice, but he sought to liberate them from their persecution and the great eras of strife they endured during their nomadic lifestyle. He desired for all of his people that were prepared to join him on a new and pristine path. And so, the caravan settled down in the west-central lands of Almaris to compose the Grand Duchy of Vasiveyva, and its capital city, Sava. See the below link to the lore of the culture: [Culture] The Vasoyevi - Cultures See the below link to the lore of the reformation and decision to settle: [Culture] Vasoyevi Reformation See the below link to the language of the Vasoyevi, Vezik: [Culture] Language of Vezik Settlement Government Structure Explanation: Vasiyeva will be ruled by a throne of two. The head of state will be the Grand Duke of Vasiyeva (“Granj Vojvoda”), acting as temporal leader of the duchy. His wife, the Grand Duchess (“Granj Vojvinja”) will lead the spiritual side of the Duchy, shepherding the female mystics of the duchy and acting much as an Archbishop would in domestic religious affairs. She would also administer over the female side of the court, referred to as the Seraglia. The Grand Duke, as head of state and sole autocrat in matters of administration, would be advised by a council of envoys (“Izaslanik”), chosen specifically by the Duke, each acting as distinctive members of the council who assist the Duke in presiding over different aspects of the Duchy from foreign affairs, to the treasury, to the military. Although each Isazlanik would be chosen for their particular expertise, to the outside world, they were merely the Duke and Duchess’ councilors, no one Isazlanik above the other in stature or title. The High Envoy (“Izaslanik Vodeci”) acts as the administrator and supervisor over the rest of the envoys and ensures the delegation and completion of their tasks alongside the Grand Duke. The military is commanded by the Grand Duke, and headed/run by the Envoy of War (“Izaslanik Rata”). It is organized, as of initiation, as a force existing to preserve the bureaucracy and domestic tranquility of the city of Sava and its residents. The Seraglia, consisting mainly of the females in the court, act separately, but in union with the envoys. Headed by the Grand Duchess & Načelnica, and handling affairs in the court of Vasiyeva, they are furthermore delegated the task of operating and upholding the interior of the realm such as in matters of stewardry and event-planning. Through their permeating role between courtly life and government administration, social mobility is ever-present and the ability to gain influence through their successes and through the Duke is paramount to rising through the ranks. Succession of the crown of the Granj Vojvoda will be passed to a male descendant of the current Granj Vojvoda upon his passing. However, Vasiyeva will not follow strict primogeniture. Instead, as with the first Granj Vojvoda, all future holders of the crown must be marked for rulership when born by the Sigismundaroșie, as read by the Granj Vojvinja and the mystics of the duchy. Settlement Builds and Infrastructure (photos required): How does this settlement offer a unique niche not already found in an existing polity on the server?: Vasiyeva offers several roleplay niches unique to it in Lord of the Craft. First, it is a settlement for the Vasoyevi culture, which currently has no home in any of the nations on Almaris, and is an entirely unique and original culture. This settlement offers a new style of RP not yet found on LOTC, inspired by a blend of multiple different southeastern European cultures, centered around the Balkan, Romani, and Romanian cultures with slight Greco-Turkish influence. The culture has a unique focus on religion, deviating in many ways from standardized and decentralized canonism. This unique blending of Canonist faith with female-led mysticism and rituals (not to be confused with the Dark Art of Mysticism) places them in a novel position in that end of roleplay. Vasiyeva is a nation founded by and run by, through descent, commoners. While they are setting up a leader above them, this culture group has never been noble or royal, allowing for a different side of medieval RP than is normally found among the human nations on Almaris. How does your settlement tie to the greater lore and narrative set by the community on LotC?: The Vasoyevi have an ancient descent from the Raevir people, tying them ancestrally to many humans in Almaris. They are furthermore entwined into the lore as deeply religious Canonists, in both word and deed, with the added twist of a more mystical, and even pagan, approach to religion, providing both a unique yet familiar take on religious affairs. The group has furthermore already established a significant amount of roleplay within and around existing nations, and have made themselves known as an existing presence (at the least) prior to pursuing a settlement. This has allowed us to better entwine ourselves diplomatically with other nations and even, at times, involve ourselves in similar narratives and in union with existing communities. Have you ever run a settlement on LoTC before and what experience do you have with leadership within roleplay communities among the current groups of players? I have not run a settlement on LoTC before. However, I have held administrative positions in settlements before such as during my stint in Oren leadership during the last months of Arcas before taking a short break from LoTC. Additionally, many of the players holding leadership positions in Vasiyeva have had a lot of experience in leadership. MCVDK has been in leadership in Oren, Cruzazul whom is also assisting has played an Orenian Emperor and a King of Haense twice, and several others have experience assisting in the leading and successfully running a settlement/nation in recent LOTC history. Through an understanding of the systems in play, specifically regarding activity metrics and a distinct roleplay direction, as well as conversations with many current and recent leadership on LoTC, I think I have an efficient understanding of what is required for successful leadership in the current player base. Do you understand the metrics for maintaining activity and the grounds for settlement removal, along with the standing polity cap? Yes, settlements such as the one we are requesting are required to maintain a minimum of 1% of server activity. Failure to maintain this activity requirement for three consecutive weeks or the majority of weeks in a two-month period is grounds for eviction of the entire settlement, which will be turned into a ruin.

Proddy, my boy. Why do you smell so bad? When will you make Franjo: Cultural Learnings of Almaris? Where are my 32k mina, renaissance man?

What's one thing that makes you hopeful for the future of LOTC? What's been your favorite character to play so far? Is a hotdog a sandwich?

I enjoyed writing this post with the boys and the final product has come together really nicely. Unshamefur Dispray. Banzai!

Name: Darius Basrid Age: 20 Current Residence: Novellen Palace, Helena Are you a Citizen of the Holy Orenian Empire? Yes Are you a convicted criminal or wanted by federal or provincial authorities? No Race: Human First Submission: A Glory’s Lament Men sit upon this precipice Of glory and of valor. They sing to themselves silent hymns That chant and ring of glamor. But beneath each silver semblance glows, A heart of black and dread. A soul weary from nights construed, Above all those men who’ve bled. They claim a victory self won A victory yet unearned. They reap all those who oppose their word, Yet enforce it unconcerned. O holy lord you’ve taught me not To trust what I have heard. You place your finger upon my lips And distrust flies off as if a bird. Now know I not what to know, Only that glory ever lingers. As silver lips drip silver ichor, I, too, indulge as though its singer. Second Submission: Dear Friend Oh Oren, dear friend, our fateful trek is done. Each war has leveled every city, the glory sought is won. Helena near, the halls I hear, its people all exulting. To see their soldiers marching home, their faces worn and turning. Yet may no man ever reap, That which was not won, For among the streets there ever lies A golden hue of sun. Oh Oren, dear friend, rise forth and sing, tell of every tale, Rise forth, for you our flag is flung, for you the people hail. For you the woman heel and sing, for you the men do bow. For you each soldier salutes our flag, for you they ever vow. I hear each man to carry slander, I hear some who carry doubt. I know those men have succumb to banter, But you, Oren, with valor rarely stand without. Our enemies do not answer, their lips stand still and closed. They have no words to part to thee, that stand for honor posed. This journey has arrived within, its voyage closed and done. From fearful trip this history dips with wearing words and funds: Exult O Oren, and sing its song, But do so not in mortal dread. Do so beneath the glowing sun, As it stands alive and bred.

SUBPOENA The Crown The Imperial Ministry of Justice Darius Basrid DESIRES TO SUMMON THE FOLLOWING PARTY TO COURT: ELISSA BRANFIELD [[GrassIsAlright]] ON THE BASIS OF THE FOLLOWING PRINCIPLE(S), DOCTRINE(S), EDICT(S) OR ARTICLES OF LAW: 202.023 - Where an individual intentionally and with premeditation causes the death of another, this shall be murder of the first degree, a felony. 202.043 - Where an individual intentionally or negligently commits such an act as to bring about the dismemberment of another, the destruction of an eye, castration, or other irreparable loss of an appendage or organ, this shall be mutilation in the first degree, a felony. 202.103 - If an individual knowingly mistreats or denies necessary care to a patient to the point of death, this shall be treated as murder. (see ORC202.02) 202.073 - Medical Validation Act (1738): Impersonating a doctor shall fall under ORC202.071. Following an in-depth investigation conducted by the Ministry of Justice, it was discovered that on the 17th of Sigismund’s End, 1770, Tirilan Sentinel alerted the Sheriff of Helena to what he believed were “medical experiments” taking place in a room buried beneath a narrow shaft in the Helena sewer. As Tirilan Sentinel and the Sheriff conversed, a man exited the shaft and attempted to flee on foot. This man, who identified himself as Theodore Galbraith, was apprehended and taken into custody by the Sheriff. Upon questioning, Theodore Galbraith admitted that he had lured Adalin Ault into the sewers at the promise of 50 minas. This prompted the Sheriff, Tirilan Sentinel, and Storm Reusvuln to forcibly enter the room underneath the sewers. An unidentified body was found, along with medical equipment and Adalin Ault’s blood. Adalin’s body was recovered by Storm Reusvuln and Medic Aaron Dern in the St. Amyas Hospital. Upon further questioning, Theodore Galbraith admitted that Peter Pruvia-Albarosa and himself had recruited Adalin Ault from the Dragon’s Rest Tavern for experimentation. Galbraith provided investigators with a book detailing his experiments (see “Further Case Research and Information,” §1) Galbraith claimed that he and an unidentified “Miss Branfield” participated in the mutilation of Adalin Ault. For his suspected involvement, Peter Pruvia-Albarosa was apprehended by Ministry of Justice agents and questioned. His testimony, in the possession of Tirilan Sentinel, corroborates Theodore Galbraith’s account. Peter Pruvia-Albarosa claimed he slew “Miss Branfield” in defense of himself and Adalin Ault, then moved Adalin Ault to the St. Amyas Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. “Miss Branfield” has also been identified posing, possibly fraudulently, as a doctor and has probable guilt for having corroborated with Theodore Galbraith in the murder of Adalin Ault in the alleged “experimentation”. Her own story contradicted her testimony and several other witnesses corroborated these points during investigation and questioning. She furthermore claimed that she was attacked by Peter Pruvia-Albarosa despite the fact that he was the one who brought the body of Adalin Ault to the hospital and had motive to try and save her from the experiments that were conducted beneath the city. Upon apprehension and post-initial questioning, Theodore Galbraith commited suicide, a probable sign of guilt, and left “Miss Branfield” as the remaining core suspect. WITH THE PRESENCE OF THE FOLLOWING RELEVANT PARTY OR PARTIES: PETER PRUVIA-ALBAROSA (as primary eye-witness) TIRILAN SENTINEL (as witness of crime scene,) PORPHYRE NICEPHORE (as witness of crime scene,) STORM REUSVULN (as witness of crime scene and victim’s body,) AARON DERN (as medical expert and witness of victim’s body,) DOCTOR MORGRYN (as medical expert and witness of victim’s body,) ON THE DESIRED DATE OF: [To Be Determined OOCly] YOURS HUMBLY, Darius Basrid Novellen Palace Quantum#3892

DECREE OF THE LORD MAYOR OF THE CITY OF HELENA CORPORATION ROOFTOP TRESPASS AND ACCESS DECREE 6th of The Deep Cold, 1766 A decree to establish a law regarding the public access of roofs, in prospect of ending an unchancy disturbance which has stricken the streets of Helena. INTRODUCTION The purpose of this decree is to establish a law prohibiting individuals from accessing the city roofs within all residential and private premises. This decree has been declared to the livery board for the sanctity and safety of all residents and individuals presiding within the capital. Under the administration of this ruling decree, sanctions shall be placed upon all and any that infringe upon or break the laws outlined within this ordinance. SECTION I Circumstances and Provisions for the crime of unauthorized roof access are as mentioned, and are to be punished and responded to accordingly. I. In accordance with Orenian Revised Code this decree would be classified under Table 2, CH203 - On Injury Against Property. II. Where non-police personnel are identified atop the roofs of Helena in either residential or private premises without direct authorization from an official, and lacking weapons upon their person, this shall be trespassing in the third degree. III. Where non-police personnel are identified atop the roofs of Helena in either residential or private premises without direct authorization from an official, and carrying weapons upon their person, this shall be trespassing in the second degree. SECTION II I. It is additionally hereby declared that all Orenian police personnel based within the Imperial City of Helena are permitted full access to the rooftops for any reasons regarding their duties. II. Residents of Helena are not permitted under any circumstance, unless under permit by the Commissioner of Urban Planning, to grow plants or place ladders and steps that would allow them direct access to the roofs of Helena. Negligence to follow this ordinance will result in a direct fee of up to 2,000 Imperial Marks. III. In accordance with the law, any individual who upon receiving a direct and acknowledged warning from officers of the law chooses not to descend from the roof runs the immediate risk of lethal force or forceful removal from the roof in order to restore peace and uphold the laws presented in this decree. As written, William of Helena, Law Clerk 1766 As decreed by, Alexandra Carrington, Lord Mayor of Helena, 1766