sarahbarah

Amaya dusts away the eraser shavings that have inevitably collected over the past few days of writing!

"This man is an imposter," says Amaya of Venzia, Princess-consort of Muldav.

"FRANZISKA ELAINE, WHERE ARE VY GOING THIS LATE?" Shrieks her sister-in-law, Queen Amaya of Haense.

APPOINTMENTS TO THE ADVISORY COUNCIL OF QUEEN AMAYA OF VENZIA ISSUED BY THE ON THIS 18th DAY OF WZUVAR AG BYVCA OF 503 E.S. ✧──────────────⊱🜂⊰──────────────✧ midst the grandeur of Her Majesty’s Royal Court, a newfound sense of anticipation fills the halls of the Prikaz as four esteemed individuals step into their newly appointed roles, each poised to contribute their unique expertise and talents to enhance the splendor and functionality of the Esrova Court. The Mistress of the Wardrobe, the Master of the Hunt, the Master of the Arts, and the Master of the Pantry are the latest additions to the Queen’s Advisory Council, and it is expected that their presence will only enrich the Court further, feeding the cultural hearth that thrives within the heart of the Kingdom. MASTER OF THE ARTS Lord Leonid d’Arkent-Kortrevich is a visionary in the creative realm and shall breathe life into the court through his artistic talents. His literary prowess will bring a touch of refinement to the Esrova Court, and it is expected that the Arts shall continue to flourish under his diligent guidance. MISTRESS OF THE WARDROBE Lady Galina Godunov, a true connoisseur of Haeseni fashion, will ensure that the court's attire reflects the cultural values of the Realm. Her talent and grace have made her a suitable fit for the role, and with the guidance of her fellow courtiers, shall propel the Haeseni culture to newfound heights. MASTER OF THE HUNT Firr Mikhail Ratibor has proved to be an accomplished outdoorsman and shall guide the members of the Esrova Court during Haeseni hunting expeditions. He showcases a deep connection to the Haeseni wilderness and the pursuit of noble sport, which shall undoubtedly refine the Office of the Hunt and Haeseni hunting culture overall. MASTER OF THE PANTRY Firr Derek Saltmen is an expert in the culinary arts and shall thus serve as the steward of the royal kitchens, responsible for orchestrating sumptuous feasts and banquets that delight all in attendance. His culinary expertise will serve the Courts well, and it is expected that the Kitchens of the Esrova will continue to thrive under his care. ✧──────────────⊱🜂⊰──────────────✧ Her Royal Majesty, AMAYA OF VENZIA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia, Karosgrad, and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald, and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, et cetera.

Queen Amaya signs the Hussariyan, lighting a candle in her chambers for the beloved Pontiff.

OCTOBER 2023 October has come and gone, meaning the time for another Player Appreciation is nigh. This is an individual I’ve known for some time, and I’m always grateful for their help and their cheerful personality. They are always willing to step up and get the job done - genuinely a wondeful human being that we all love. Without further ado, please join me in welcoming (and honouring) the player chosen for October 2023! 🙐 @teeylin “Went out of their way to reach out to me about steward stuff which was very nice of them to do!” - @snowlift ”They are an amazing person who has personally helped me through so much. Since knowing them, I have become more confident and comfortable.” - @lmcfc “Teeylin is truly one of my best bros. He's incredibly hardworking, loyal, and tremendously intelligent. Though these virtues pale in comparison to his kindness and warm-spiritedness. I am firmly of the opinion that Tee brightens every room -- or in this case, Discord call, -- that he's in. I think that Tee forms, and represents, an integral piece of the Haeseni community. It wouldn't be the same without you, buddy <3 Thank you for everything, you've been a real godsend for me.” - @Copowl ”Teeylin is an absolutely amazing friend! Always good for a laugh, or willing to listen to me ramble. I always love rping with them as well, as their personas are always so genuinely fun in their own right. I can't properly explain Teeylin in their entirety, just know they're great!” - @tadabug

Amaya adds the work to the extensive Royal Compendium, offering a wide grin as she surveys the fine penmanship of the former Master of the Arts. "A fine work by the Lord Stafyr - I would expect nothing less!"

Queen Amaya spreads the finalized edit of Haeseni Customs II across her desk. She beams with pride, setting off to publish it.

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matching sets: Sonya 4 and Sonya 5 50 mina and 50 mina :3

“I suppose they don’t want any hot cocoa,” mutters Queen Amaya as she stuffs a bag of oversized marshmallows into a dusty broom closet.

THE MARIGOLD PACT Agreed upon this 21st day of Wzuvar ag Byvca of 501 E.S. Between the Dual Monarchy of Hanseti-Ruska and the Shiredom of Dúnfarthing The Dual Monarchy of Hanseti-Ruska and The Shiredom of Dúnfarthing, henceforth denoted as "the signatories," mutually acknowledge one another's sovereignty as independent realms. This recognition encompasses the prerogative to govern their lands according to their own discretion. ARTICLE I: NON-AGGRESSION The signatories commit to a pact of non-aggression and non-hostility among their respective realms, vowing to refrain from provoking conflicts between them. Should disagreements arise, they shall seek resolution through diplomatic channels, ensuring that the integrity of the alliance and the respective laws of each realm remain unimpeded. ARTICLE II: TRADE The signatories, desiring to foster unrestricted trade between themselves and their subjects, shall grant permission for the trading companies of each signatory to establish tax-exempt market stalls within the other’s capital cities. Additionally, it shall be the duty of the signatories to ensure the provision of goods and merchandise in these tax-exempt stalls. ARTICLE III: DURATION The treaty shall come into effect immediately upon its signing and remain in effect for a duration of ten years. Thereafter, the signatories shall convene once more to renegotiate terms and agreements. IV JOVEO MAAN, Her Royal Majesty, Amaya of Venzia, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia, Karosgrad, and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald, and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Buck, and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, etcetera. His Royal Majesty, King Cyris Collingwood I, Thain of Dunfarthing and her vassals, Protector of the Wee, Lord of Greater Bramblebury, Honeyhill, and the Hillmen, Father of Foxes, Liberator of Frogtopia, Slayer of Gods, The Oathbreaker, Grand Wizard of Bogwartz: School of Shamanism and Housemagery, Tamer of the Forest, Chairman of the League of Super Best Friends, Wielder of the Most Holy Knoxscalibur, Emperor of the Holy Orenian Empire of Bywater, Shogging Champion, Attorney-at-law, etcetera.

Queen Amaya wears her "I <3 Ex. Sigismund" shirt with pride.

Queen Amaya promptly displays the poem in her office. framed in all its glory. (( bars but i h8 you

THE FIVE GOLDEN DAYS IN CELEBRATION OF 500 E.S. KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 4th day of Jula ag Piov of 499 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, Exalted Sigismund Carrion, in his time upon the mortal realm, was known as a seer; a spiritual leader; a unifier of mankind; and the one to pry Canondom from the clutches of pagan influence. Later in his life, Godan would come to present him the Scrolls of Revelation, permitting him to foretell the fate of Mankind. Upon his eventual ascension to the Skies, he would be dubbed the Prophet of Time and Revelation. Such a prolific figure in Highlandic culture has certainly solidified his legacy within Haeseni history, and thus, the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska employs the year of his ascension in a Kingdom-wide dating system. It nears five centuries since Sigismund’s ascension, which certainly necessitates a grand celebration to honour the Prophet. It is by the will of the Crown that the realm enters a period of religious celebration – the Five Golden Days – to commemorate five hundred years since the Exalted’s ascension to the Skies, and the many Saints that forged Haeseni history alongside him. The itinerary is as follows: JULIYAFEST, the Feast Day of St. Julia and the Fifty Virgins [5pm EST, Wednesday, October 18th] Upon this feast day, many have been known to wed their betrothed, or beg their beloved’s head of house for permission in courtship on this day. The presentation of a crown of lilies, known as Liliekongis, can be expected to be received as a romantic gesture from a Haenseman to his romantic interest. The more fortunate and hopeful can look forward to being gifted a belt woven of ivy and twine, the Verevka Belt, blessed by a priest in order to ask for their hand in marriage. In commemoration of this sacred holiday, a grand celebration will be held within the Prikaz Gardens, commencing with a feast and dance in which the Haeseni shall come together to revel in the unity that the essence of St. Juliya so graciously provides. Soon thereafter, the Oracle shall grace the guests with his presence, sharing his prophecies that are said to hold the secrets of their fate. For those with a penchant for crafts, a Liliekongies crafting stall awaits, where one may craft lily crowns to gift to their intended. Finally, the effigy of St. Julia shall be displayed, accompanied by a tale of storied significance that reminds all in attendance of the origins of St. Julia. * It should be noted that while Juliyafest comprises one day of the 500 E.S. festivities, the Queen’s Council intends to host a more embellished variation of the Juliyafest in the coming years to commemorate the blooming courtships and betrothals amongst the youth of Hanseti-Ruska. RORTDEY, the Feast day of St. Amyas [5pm EST, Thursday, October 19th] The observance of Rortdey signifies the coming of Spring and celebrates St. Amyas, the Patron Saint of medicine, healing, botany, and wild herbs. It is said that the coming of Spring symbolises Godan’s healing of the Winter’s blight, akin to the healing that St. Amyas performed in life. On this auspicious occasion, the Kingdom's subjects shall come together to honour the virtues of St. Amyas, a revered figure among Canondom.The day begins with a gathering within the Basilica where the faithful shall congregate to offer prayers and pay homage to the Saint before a shrine. As the sun sets, the people of Hanseti-Ruska will partake in a lavish feast in the countryside, where tables are laden with a cornucopia of delectable dishes. Guests will be beckoned to partake in the Scyfling Maypole dance, the herb hunt, and the egg and spoon race to honour the symbolisms of St. Amyas. Attendees will also forage and hunt in the surrounding woodlands for food, so that the subsequent feast occurring the next day may be supplemented accordingly. JROTHIK, the Feast day of St. Joren and St. Tara [5pm EST, Friday, October 20th] After the tragic fall of Hanseh, the capital of Saint Joren’s realm, Saint Tara fled with her court to the banks of an icy river whereupon she settled and named it Jroth. There, she and the members of her court gathered materials from the earth to indulge in a feast to honour the fallen capital in silence. It is this feast of mirth during the period dubbed the Age of Silence that many still continue to celebrate on Jrothik. As the festival of Jrothik commences, skilled participants will demonstrate their prowess in herding goats within the farmlands. Archers may also try their hand at apple shooting, wherein each participant will take aim at the various apple targets scattered about the countryside. At dusk, the grand bonfire is lit, and the upcoming feast will be cooked over the sizzling flames. The evening culminates in a sumptuous feast and the kingdom's finest culinary creations will be savoured over the bonfire for the duration of the evening. Finally, as eve descends, the attendees will make their way to the berry patch to partake in berry picking to make pies and other assorted pastries befitting the holiday of Jrothik. The highlight of Jrothik is the presentation of the Effigy of St. Joren and St. Tara, accompanied by the retelling of their significance to remind all of their timeless virtues that unite the people of Hanseti-Ruska. JAKKO, the Feast Day of St. Tobias the Pure [5pm EST, Saturday, October 21st] Jakko is celebrated to commemorate the winter solstice. During this day, the Haeseni observe the festival of Saint Tobias, which often includes a feast and play in the village centre. Traditionally, the holiday was a very solemn affair, although in recent years it has been combined with the traditions observed during the Heartlander’s Saint Tobias’ Day, which includes the practices of gift-giving and selfless acts. The holiday begins with a gift exchange, in which tokens of affection and goodwill are exchanged amongst the Kingdom's inhabitants. Subsequently, a grand feast, accompanied by the performance of a play shall take place in the square. Following this jovial performance, an effigy of St. Tobas will be presented before the attendees while the story of his significance is shared. The youth of the Kingdom will sculpt snowmen to portray the beloved Saint, and the sharing of hot chocolate shall take place within the confines of the tavern, providing ample comfort for all guests in attendance. WIELKEY SIGMUNDI, the Day of Accession [5:30pm EST, Sunday, October 22nd] Sigismund’s Day is the national holiday observed by all Haeseni to celebrate the Exalted Sigismund, one of the revered patrons of the Kingdom. During this day, it is tradition for all members of the Karovic household to feast in the halls of the current Karovic Patriarch. Common foods observed during this feast include veal, iskov, and restineol. The celebration commences with a spirited dance upon the tourney grounds, followed by a capstone feast composed of the various dishes reflecting the diverse heritage of the Kingdom. As twilight descends, lanterns are released into the night sky, each carrying with it an uttered wish or prayer to represent the ascension of the Exalted Sigismund. An effigy of the Exalted Sigismund will be crafted by the attendees, followed by a narrative recounting the miracles he performed. Thereafter, a private feast will welcome the esteemed Karovic Descendants into the King’s halls for a feast; However, it is encouraged for all citizens to partake in their own private dinners with loved ones at the conclusion of the evening. IV JOVEO MAAN, Her Royal Majesty, Amaya of Venzia, Queen-consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia, Karosgrad, and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald, and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, et cetera. Her Excellency, Roslin Annastas Baruch, Lady Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska, Duchess of Valwyck, Countess of Ayr, Viscountess of Voron, Baroness of Gant, Laval and Riveryn, Lady of Jorenstadt, Guardian of the Hanseti Coast

Queen Amaya prepares her special brew of hot cocoa - lovingly dubbed the Queen's Cocoa, for any Aaunic diplomats who may wish to come visit in the coming days!

Amaya loitered upon her balcony just outside the royal chambers when the news of the Ser's death reached Haense. The gentle coaxing of a courier could not quite pull her from her daze, nor the calls of her husband, Aleksandr. The biting winds of the blizzard swept a reddened flush across her tear-stained cheeks as she stared down at the frozen river encircling the Prikaz below. The Queen would not remain a moment longer as she enveloped her form in a fur-lined cloak - retreating to the warmth of the chambers with haste, for she could no longer bear the cold of the unending winter nor the gnawing grief that festered within her heart.

Amaya of Venzia embarks upon this journey with her fellow Haeseni, gathering wood for the assorted hearths around the Kingdom. "For the hearth of the homeland," she chimes.

leave michele alone All jokes aside, I'm so happy to hear this!! This is so sweet. We love Cas in Haense; thanks for sharing her with us!!

who r u again

AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2023 Hello LOTC! I’m happy to present the two players of the months of August and September. These two ladies are very special in the Haense community and deserve to know just how much they are appreciated. Without further ado, here are our stars of August and September 2023. 🙐 @PerfectlyPeachy @CasChaos “Cas is really kind and helpful both in and out of character, and one of the first people I met that made me feel welcomed in the community. Plus, she's fantastic as Marian, the lovely custodian of Valdev's castle. I really appreciate and respect her!” - @HayCrow “I love how upbeat about everything they've been. Really provides excellent rp and creates a generally good environment. They're truly the best tavern rper and have created a welcoming experience for not only new players but some of the older ones too. I feel like they are not given enough cred and deserve this little paper plate award!” - @Mady07 “Cas has done SO MUCH for the courts as custodian. They're super friendly and always strive to include new players and people who might not have the easiest time fitting in. They run the servantry like a BOSS and I'm always so happy to work alongside them.” - @Cheese1sGrater “She's always done a lot, but never seems to get any recognition for it. She worked really hard under Shay and GMRO, and I think she really stepped up during the last lifstala season to organise and put things together. She is a lovely individual!” - Anonymous “Ever since I met Holly years ago online (and far away from LOTC), she's been a very good friend of mine and honestly helped introduce plenty more. It's her doing in a big part that I've ended up in such a great community and on LOTC. She's a great roleplayer who's really willing to take fire and owns what her characters do without worrying about what people might think, a great writer to boot with a penchant for rping drama, with a good sense of humour, and protective of her friends. I know she's got dope plans and cool ideas and I def look forward to seeing my friend do ‘em.” - @ContestedSnow ”Peachy always has compelling stories to tell and is extremely talented when it comes to building a storyline. Her posts are always top tier and I love having game nights with her! She’s done so much for the community in both an OOC and RP capacity and has always offered me a helping hand if I need it. She’s a veteran member of the community and a joy to be around. I love and appreciate Peachy.” - @Sarah Thank you for sticking around for this month’s Player Appreciations! It’s always a joy to get to recognize the beloved members of the Haeseni community, so please keep nominating! Much love to all :)