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ETERNITY IN GLORY AND ETERNITY IN DESPAIR On Death and Rebirth + Written by Acolyte Witmar Barclay I. PROLOGUE The thesis examines the relationship between the concepts of eternal life and death in the philosophy of numerous holy fathers throughout the history of the Holy Mother Church. We can distinguish between two forms of death: corporeal and eternal. The first, corporeal or physical death, is inherited through Ibless' fall. In contrast, eternal death is spiritual, arising from the separation of the human personality from the personality of God, the Creator." II. FINAL, YET ETERNAL The concept of eternal life is one of the fundamental guiding ideas that continue to inspire studies and theses in modern times, as it did in the past when similar topics were explored. However, it finds its antithesis in the concept of eternal death. As mentioned, we can distinguish two forms of death. The first is corporeal, inherited through Ibless' fall, while the second is eternal, resulting from the separation of the personality from God. This spiritual death is considered more fundamental and "true." The issue arises in the interpretation of the terms life and death, which, in theological literature, acquire a distinct meaning. In the terminology of the holy fathers, the term life refers to spiritual life in God, while death signifies "spiritual deadness in God," or separation from Him. This raises several questions: Is the immortality of the soul conditional or unconditional? Specifically, does the term eternal death imply the complete cessation of the soul's existence and its disappearance into non-being, or does it signify eternal condemnation to "voidal torments"? According to the words of the Venerated Cardinal Anton Barclay, we should fear the second death, as it represents the death of the soul, which he describes as "naturally immortal." His Excellency, in one of his many writings, emphasized the view shared by all the holy fathers: separation from God constitutes death to the soul, just as the separation of the soul from the body constitutes death to the body. Cardinal Jorenus similarly asserted that Ibless' soul became numb when he transgressed and separated himself from God. Another significant perspective comes from Saint High Pontiff Tylos II, who observed that eternal death occurs after the coming of Horen, when the righteous are resurrected, and the bodies of the "lawless and sinners" are subjected to the "second death." What is clear from this interpretation is that it applies not only to those who are already physically dead but also to those who will still be physically alive at that moment. "...if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if you mortify the body through the spirit, you will live" - St. High Pontiff Tylos II Life signifies enjoyment in the eternal kingdom, while death represents eternal torment in immortality. This implies that violating the Commandments of the Scrolls leads to a double death: both spiritual and bodily, regardless of whether it refers to physical death or eternal death. III. GOD AS THE LINK The holy fathers, particularly from the northern parishes, though differing in certain views yet drawing from the same sources, believe that the soul is mortal because it does not possess life inherently but receives it from the uncreated energies of God, the Creator. The soul's decay manifests through visible signs, serving as evidence of its mortality. According to these holy fathers, the death of the soul is a spiritual and mystical consequence of sin and impenitence. A dead soul is distant from God, severed from His life-giving energies. They affirm that the soul is mortal by its nature but made immortal through the love and will of God. However, this immortality requires the cooperation of human love and will with the divine. This view, though slightly more radical, is fundamentally supported by the testimony of scriptures and the theses of other holy fathers with similar perspectives throughout the history of the Holy Mother Church. What unites all the perspectives discussed in this thesis is the emphasis on God as the central link - a common ground where all understandings converge. Eternal life is possible only in synergy with the giver of eternal life, the Creator. God is immortal because His identity and unity are affirmed as the Father, and His followers as children of the Father, forming a community of persons bound by a relationship of love. God is life, and from Him comes the life of humanity, as well as the life of the human soul. From its very inception, the human soul is imbued with a sense of immortality. This raises an important question: Is it possible for God to have created something that can cease to exist, something that does not carry within it the seed of immortality? God bestowed that seed upon humanity, but only in communion with Him. If man had been granted immortality, as was the case before the Fall, then the sacrifice of Horen would have been unnecessary. IV. CONCLUSION To conclude, the interplay between eternal life and eternal death, as explored through the teachings of the holy fathers, reveals the profound connection between humanity and the Creator. The essence of life lies not in mere existence but in communion with God, the source of all being. Without this relationship, the soul faces a dual peril: spiritual death and eternal separation from divine love. The notion of immortality is closely tied to God’s will and man’s cooperation with it. While the soul is naturally mortal, it is through God’s uncreated energies and the sacrificial act of Horen that humanity is offered the potential for eternal life. This synergy underscores the central role of love and free will in the spiritual journey.

Witmar peeks at the thesis, taking it into his hands to read it, occasionally responding to Godfrey's comments. "Well, ja," he says. "I wholeheartedly agree, Your Grace. You can see the progress, and praised be Gott for that."

“Dieu, I shall answer to you soon enough, for I have sinned greatly.”, Louis-Caspian exclaims through a shiver, leaving two missives of his own writing, one pertaining to his resignation on his desk to be published later on, “Papa, they told me you did the same thing… Now, am I to reciprocate?”, he sighs while having his gaze set at a nearby rope…

Amidst his tiresome work, Louis-Caspian dismisses letter after letter, finally revealing one with strange markings that catch his eye. “Oh… Oh, this is intriguing… Interesting. I ought to have studied this better…” he murmurs repeatedly as he reads the missive’s contents.

[!] Upon noticing the missive, the Royal Chancellor of Aaun shakes his head at the saddening attempt of scaring the common people of Aaun. He then pens the following to the public… ”In my power as the Royal Chancellor of Aaun, it is I, Louis-Caspian Dieuxmont de Rosius who shall in this time and hour reaffirm our stance and allegiance, as well as the ever lasting support and loyalty to the Holy Mother Church. Our recent events brought much confusion, but fret not, for the treaty is there to be respected and fulfilled, and the regency followed in only one direction - a righteous one.”

“While I was present, no one insulted Holy Father. While I was there, the sound of of a conversation resonated throughout the Lemon Hill, and nothing else.” The Royal Chancellor of Aaun remarks with a shake of his head, looking at the obvious exaggeration of the events and a possible fragility of one’s ego. Nonetheless, he feels it is his duty to address the events as soon as possible… ”Whoever wrote these slanders against Holy Father isn’t reflecting our own thoughts. A disgrace… Archibald, help me with the introduction of the public address…”

Louis-Caspian, upon ascending Mont Louis, where the last beacon radiated its fire’s light, hummed a tune before turning around, taking a deep breath, and thinking, “Aaun will rise, just wait and see, as strong as Whitespire’s fire can be..”

“An epistle that doesn’t have a price.”, the Chancellor of Aaun remarks with a firm nod, “Yet, someone’s arrogance and over-exaggeration of their pride usually get the better of them. Sure, we go to war, which means history will repeat itself when it comes to these folks.”

The beacons of one Barony of Rosius were lit within a matter of seconds, the people beneath it professing their love and support for their king and fatherland!

An Auvergnian's STUDY ON HERALDRY The art of colors and power ☩ “ Lo! Attend these words, for We beseech thee to hearken with utmost care! “ ☩ The coat of arms of Baron Louis-Caspian Dieuxmont de Rosius ☩ In the name of The Right Honourable Louis IV Caspian Dieuxmont de Rosius, Baron of Rosius and Royal Chancellor of Aaun, We hereby pronounce to thee the following study from the heart of Louisanne… ☩ i. INTRODUCTION The Discipline of Heraldry, or simply Heraldry, is an art form and a necessary formality of both past and present. It is a field that certain individuals dedicate their lives to studying, refining its practice to make it more accessible for future generations. Heraldry pertains to the design and display of armorial bearings, whether for an individual or a group. Throughout history we have had a chance to witness the great number of examples of this craft, which is by itself a testament to how serious this discipline is being taken by the people of both lesser and higher standing. Through this study, it is the wish of the author to emphasize the greatness and importance of this discipline, to familiarize the readers with numerous terms and uses in heraldry and to correct possible mistakes which have been made throughout the past when it comes to understanding heraldry. ☩ ii. DEFINITIONS (a) “coat of arms” refers to a design on a shield or escutcheon; (b) “roll of arms” refers to a collection of coats of arms of a certain individual or a group, accompanied by the names of their bearers; (c) ”escutcheon” refers to the shield on which a coat of arms is displayed; (c) “achievement” or “heraldic achievement” refers to a full display of all the elements of a coat of arms, which is not accompanied only by the shield or escutcheon; (d) “charge” refers to any figure or symbol placed on the field of a shield or escutcheon; (e) “herald” refers to a person who is tasked with bearing and maintaining the coat of arms of a certain individual or a group; (f) “blazon” refers to the art of formally describing and representing the heraldic or armorial bearing; (g) “tincture” refers to the colors, metals and furs used in heraldic designs; ☩ iii. HISTORY It is avouched that one of the first uses of ‘coat of arms’ has begun within the tribal communes of Aegis, those being the places in the hilly regions of Oren, then Renatus which was then followed by Hanseti and Salvus, all in order to be recognisable to their allies, friends, or foes from afar as the tensions have already been brewing since the fall of Oren. It comes to no surprise though, as some of these communes at the time didn’t develop the need for writing and were illiterate, plus back in the day people didn’t look at heraldry as we look at it today, so a simple yet recognisable design suited their needs. Not long after the shift of various societies and realms of the past, heraldic craft has expanded its horizons to almost every corner of the continent, primarily being used by the folks of certain stations of importance, such as emperors, kings and the other lesser nobility. These bearings defined and still define its holder, being equipped with ‘charges’ of all kinds and ‘tinctures’, which to some sounds like adding unnecessary elements, yet it had completed its real definition and meaning, to represent its holder’s prestige in full capacity. ☩ E.g The dynastic achievement of the House of Alstreim The connection between a man and his coat of arms was important in the past, as is evident when one looks at history. Great powers of the past were equipped with meticulously crafted ‘achievements’ during the height of their reign, where armorial bearings clearly represented their influence on the political climate of the realm, territorial power, or manpower. Certain figures, in addition to constructing monuments and buildings that testified to their diligence and prowess, also hired ‘heralds’, masters of arms, to design and present a unique coat of arms for their liege lord, standing alongside all the grand monuments. When the first uses of special armorial bearings among the nobility began, the term ‘blazon’ was introduced to indicate that the heraldry was something to be taken on a serious note. With time, it has gotten its real definition, it being the proper language among the armorial heralds and a way to lock in the rich history of heraldry for the future to come. ☩ E.g The Coat of arms from the lines of Horen, circa 1526-1595 & 1613-1638 As time passed and the continents shifted, the trends in heraldic bearings also changed. What began as simple, long shields with two divided colors evolved into more elaborate designs, featuring shields with richer textures, more vibrant colors, and additional charges on the coat of arms. Many of the present coats of arms, if not all of them, are usually accompanied by not one or two, but three and more elements which vary in its shapes and tinctures, be it an animal, building or a weapon. The profession of a herald became more of a familial business and position, where those who held the title of the king’s arms bearer passed down their knowledge and craft to their offspring. To this day, it is essential to acknowledge those who dedicated their precious time and effort to this discipline, among whom Fr. Leopold Barclay stands out as one of the most proficient heralds of our time. Additionally, the heralds from imperial times are recognized as some of the most renowned in history, with their work now documented in historical books and displayed in museums. It should be noted that by 'imperial times,' the entire period of imperial rule is meant, from the reign of Horen to that of Novellen. ☩ E.g The coat of arms of the Commonwealth of Sutica, designed by Father Leopold Barclay, circa 1835 ☩ iv. BASIC TERMINOLOGY To grasp the basic elements of the discipline of heraldry, one should familiarize themselves with its fundamental rules and concepts. Like any other form of art or craft, heraldry has its own rules to follow, tips and tricks to learn, and boundaries that should not be crossed. In this section, the most important terms of heraldry will be presented and briefly explained, as this very section would require not one, but dozens of written material, which doesn’t mean more of it won’t come in the future. (a) Tinctures and Furs If you get to the topic of colors within a group of educated heralds of arms, it is wiser to use the word ‘tinctures’ and to learn what the name of each color according to blazon is. Keep in mind that is really not necessary for an ordinary field worker or a stableman. The first row is occupied by the ‘metals’, which are consisted of only two tinctures: Argent (silver, usually white) and Or (gold); The second row consists of the most used tinctures: Sable (black), Azure (blue), Gules (red) and Vert (green); Lastly, the third row is reserved for those tinctures which are rare in terms of getting them in natural ways: Purpure (purple) and Tenne (stain or leather brown); As mentioned earlier in this section, there are specific rules to follow when dealing with any work really. In many other forms of art and craft, there may be multiple rules that are crucial if you want your work to be perfected. In heraldry, however, there is only one primary rule: the rule of tinctures - metal does not go on metal, and color does not go on color. This rule exists because if your coat of arms consists of a layer of metal placed over another layer of metal, even God's own light will not recognize it from afar. On the other hand, ‘furs’ are another type of tincture which are also used in coats of arms. Unlike the ordinary colors and metals, these are patterned and meant to be used to represent the pelts of animals. From left to right: Ermine - white field with a pattern of small black tail-tips; Vair - bell/shield-shaped patches of squirrel fur sewn together; (b) Ordinaries When referring to ‘ordinaries’, we talk about the simplest geometrical shapes. They are numerous obviously, and to further make heraldry seem like a mess, there are also the most common shapes with their special names, which we will get to. From left to right: Saltire; Cross; Label; Pile; Chief; Chevron; Pale; Pall; Bordure; Fess; Bend; These are only some of the possible ordinaries, as there is also a sub-section called sub-ordinaries, which is left for some other time. According to some heralds of arms, an individual is free to experiment with different shapes, adding and removing them to achieve their desired look. Here’s a tip from the professionals: do not overcrowd your coat of arms with unnecessary elements, such as an odd number of bars and on top of that, seven triangles, for example. (c) Charges The introduction of charges opened the door to those who truly profess their love for heraldry. These charges include all elements not previously mentioned, such as animals, figures, and shapes of all kinds. The royal coat of arms originating from the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska is a perfect example of the brilliant attention to detail that defines the art of heraldry. Here, one can observe the combination of multiple charges, numerous ordinaries, and a harmonious blend of tinctures, all of which tell the historical story of the kingdom and its past. Readers should bear in mind that this coat of arms is not used on the battlefield and that every kingdom, including the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, has more than one coat of arms, each serving different purposes. ☩ v. ROSIUS HERALDIC STATION To conclude the first part of this study, the author wishes to emphasize the uprising of the Rosius Heraldic Station. Not everyone is born with knowledge and no one should die without knowledge, and because of that being said, the Baron of Rosius began with the regular studies of heraldry, thus this advertisement. All who wish to witness the fine craft in person are free to do so by either arriving at the gates of Louisanne, or by sending a raven to the aforementioned town. For the beginning, the services are free of charge for those who haven’t had a chance to get a grasp of heraldry either from their elders or books. ☩ AVEC DIEU ☩

“We should be one body in faith, at least.”, the Chancellor of Aaun remarks with a sigh, recalling his actions of the past and thinking about the future, “The more, the merrier. It was always like that. I hope that we all rejoice in the name of Dieu.”

“I see you are becoming popular among the neighbours as well. Welcome to le club.”, Chancellor of Aaun remarks towards his friend and fellow councillor Sir George Halcourt @ImDrippedJr, nudging him in jest while scanning the missive once again for any errors! He then realises that Bon’Ox scribed everything correctly and that he shouldn’t worry.

PRONOUNCEMENT TO THE PEOPLE The Rosian Cabinet Committed to Sovereignty, Justice and the People TO ALL MEN AND WOMEN OF THE APOSTOLIC KINGDOM, It is with profound reverence and great joy that I address you on this momentous occasion, in this auspicious hour. We herald the dawn of our sovereign state, and celebrate the establishment of our Royal Council, after quite the turbulent period in our lives which we surely wish is now long behind us. Our resolve to determine our destiny is characterised by our commitment to self-determination and the pursuit of a future that embodies our shared values, traditions, and aspirations. In accordance with the sacred duty to ensure just and effective governance, the formation of the Royal Council was declared by His Majesty Charles II, as anticipated, because it is imperative that any entity aspiring to be recognized as a state must possess a council endowed with the wisdom and guidance necessary to lead it towards enlightenment. By the King's decree, we have successfully established a new government, and convened the esteemed individuals who will stand resolutely beside the King and our fatherland, its people and God, through prosperity and adversity, until the end of days. As anticipated, we encountered certain omissions and obstacles that impeded our progress until this announcement. Indeed, even the most adept among us are not immune to error. What truly matters is one's comprehension of what constitutes a mistake. It is acceptable to err, for a life devoid of mistakes implies a lack of effort and initiative. Mistakes signify that one has endeavoured to achieve something worthwhile. This is true for myself, my friends, and my relatives. But, as I have stated, we are here to present the best version of ourselves. However, everything I have mentioned thus far also pertains to the endeavours of our fatherland. There are no results without effort, dear citizens, and thus I urge us all to embark on new victories through collective effort and mutual assistance. In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Almighty God for His guidance and blessings, for it was something and is still something we will need in the times to come. To His Majesty, my dear cousin, I have only the words of gratitude and the words of reassurance that the government and I will be doing our work diligently. I thank the people of the fatherland for their unwavering support and dedication. To our newly formed Royal Council, I express my deepest appreciation for your commitment to our shared vision. Together, we shall strive for a future marked by unity, prosperity, and justice. Let us embark on this journey with faith, courage, and mutual respect, ever mindful of our duty to one another and to our beloved fatherland. ISSUED AND PROCLAIMED; In the City of Whitespire, Apsotolic Kingdom of Aaun On the 14th of Sun’s Smile, 1988. HIS EXCELLENCY, Louis-Caspian Dieuxmont de Rosius, Royal Chancellor of Aaun and Baron of Rosius

The Aaunic chancellor Louis-Caspian widens his brows in joy and surprise after seeing the two royals within the grass fields of the Franklands. "Your Majesty, I came to touch some grass, what about you two?!", he calls out from afar... @Myochii @ibiou [!] Some nearby field workers later commented the chancellor within their homes, inns and such places:

“Oh mon vineyards! I left you UNATTENDED with these imbecilles!”, Louis-Caspian cries out towards the vast land full of vineyards, therefore frowning at the nearby field workers as they run around. At least the conflict was solved, at last.

“Archibald, I know you are old…”, Louis-Caspian exclaims through a chuckle to his family friend, the most loyal one so far, “But, fetch me my ink and feather. Breach of law is not going to be tolerated in this state.”

“This was the only right outcome, if you ask me-well, if you ask anyone!” Chancellor de Rosius lets out a heartly chuckle, slapping the table a few times at the proclamation of the alliance between the three parties.

Chancellor de Rosius lets out a heavy sigh within the confinements of his keep, preparing to set upon a path towards Enswerp. The two are of similar age, perhaps he can offer him some solace.

"...tumultuous discourse that has plagued our Heartlands since the most recent Chancellor elections. Mm.. You beat someone in their own game that they've created and nurtured, and then it is your fault that you've won the game. I thought our elections went without any wrongdoings, but it seems someone is still mad." Chancellor Louis-Caspian de Rosius remarks joyously with a brief chuckle, carefully pinning yet another missive published by his friends from the west onto his board within his office. "An Aaunite is the Chancellor of your system. God, this will all go into the annals of history one day!"

Louis-Caspian de Rosius sits in his chancellor’s office, surrounded by the trappings of his position - books of law, maps of the Heartlands et cetera. The flicker of candlelight casts a warm glow across the room, highlighting his contemplative expression. In the middle of his business, one of his trusted messengers rushes in with news of Paul I’s proclamation. Louis reads the document with meticulous attention, his eyes narrowing slightly as he absorbs the gravity of the words. The revelation of Adalia's illegitimate claim and the actual set of the events in the past stirs a deep sense of anger, and justice within him. "I have been around enough to believe that these tricks are possible, even today in our age. Was the lust for power really so great that it now makes her simply disgusting and terrifying? What made these wretches do what they did? I don't have an answer to this pathos, but I do have an answer to the further course of events." Setting the parchment down, Louis-Caspian rises from his desk. He moves to the window, looking out over the vast lands he can possibly see with his eyes, his thoughts focused on the future. In that moment, without uttering a single word, Louis-Caspian solidifies his stance. His actions, calculated and deliberate, speak volumes of his allegiance. In his eyes, Paul I is the one.

THE BARONY OF ROSIUS Issued on the 26th of the Sun's Smile 1985 TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE LANGKETTE PASS, FRANKLANDS, SOLLAND, VALLAGNE, WHITESPIRE AND BEYOND, Pretending to be deaf to certain slights and provocations is one thing that even a fool can afford. It is quite another thing not to react to those provocations at that moment when they turn into something called oppression and belittling. It is also a completely different matter if the authors and tellers of such slander and vile lies present themselves to you as your closest compatriots, friends who are there for you, neighbors who will give you the last piece of their bread, soldiers who will defend you when you need it. My family and I don't want to believe this, but after the events that happened in writing and verbally, we have no other choice. Having found out the true identity of the person who started the series of events that led to the disunity within the Confederation among the inhabitants, as well as to the illegal confiscation of titles in addition to several other lies and frauds, I must point out that the Brigade of Marna acted in a way that the vast majority of people see as full-fledged. Everyone now knows that Bel Aurum will be caught sooner or later, unless of course they dies naturally, which we hope won't be the case. The Barony of Rosius, with me, Louis IV Caspian de Rosius as the Baron of Rosius affirms its support for the Brigade of Marna in their goals in the near future. Their recent deeds were commited not out of spite, but out of necessity for the true justice. The unity of our people must continue on, but only after the Heartlands get rid of the intoxicated mice. They undermine the Heartlands and bring harm to every man and woman with good values as long as these plots are given any opportunity to thrive. For the end of this missive, I will write a short quote of my colleague and friend: “The Heartlands will see the justice it deserves.” AVEC DIEU, Louis IV Caspian de Rosius, Baron of Rosius, Lord Chancellor of the Heartlands

"What a splendid occasion!" - "I remember the honourable monsieur Sterling from mon young days, did you know that? Our papa and monsieur Sterling were the ones who had overseen the building of the Silver Road of Saint Tobias, as well." Louis-Caspian remarks towards his sister Isabeau-Karine de Rosius, nudging her to peek at the invitation with a bright smile present on his face as usual. "I do need a short break from certain personas. You will come with me, too. You will leave a bon expression, I believe very much so!" @ydegirl

— JUDICIAL APPOINTMENT — From the Heartlandic Council to the People Issued and averred by the office of Recently, we witnessed a controversial newspaper headline on the one hand, and an act against the dignity of a moral person on the other hand. What else can we say but wonder if the authors of this paper have an iota of responsibility and time for themselves, instead of writing something useful through the paper they uselessly waste, they use those things that do not contribute to any community. Slander, the act of making false and damaging statements about someone, offers no tangible benefits to individuals or society. Instead, it erodes trust, damages reputations, and sows discord within communities. Slander can lead to severe emotional distress and financial losses for the victim, while also undermining the integrity of the slanderer. One needs to know how to deal with offenders, and one also requires a presence of the people who can fully and properly fight with such persons. Due to all of the above, according to the power bestowed upon me through this position of the Lord Chancellor and after the recent events in our realm, my duty is as follows and this decree finds the following; HRH ROBERT TIBERIUS, Bailiff of Enswerp shall be named the Judge of the Confederation, the duties of this position to be assumed by His Royal Highness with the immediate effect of this decree. His duties are mandated through Article II - Of Justice and Trial, according to the Codex of Saint Godwin. The only person who initiated some kind of action regarding these events deserves to continue to do so, in the right and legal way. @Crevel His Excellency, Louis-Caspian Dieuxmont de Rosius, Lord Chancellor of the Heartlands, Baron of Rosius, Lord of Mont Louis

"Look at this.", Louis-Caspian gently nudges the Vice-Chancellor of the Heartlands, promptly moving his palm over his sweaty forehead while exhaling slowly as if not to act in a wrong way.

"Albert, haven't you heard what our mère once said?" Louis-Caspian, the Lord Chancellor mentioned in the quill would exclaim towards his younger brother, Albert-Goulielmos in a joyous manner, his voice calm just like his facial expression while scanning the details of the parchment briefly as he quotes; "Most of the trouble in this world has been caused by folks who can't mind their own business... because they have no business of their own to mind, any more than a smallpox virus has. But, if they so wish to have an oversight over mon business, then they should be equipped with facts, next time." "I urge you not to bother your young mind about this. Let us go into the vineyards, hm?" @Franczhiz