mothsthetic

HIDDEN IN THE DARK “There is a certain defensiveness one jumps to, when they know they have done wrong.” Sir Atticus Reinhold, Count of Anairgrid, 97 A.R.P Issued and averred by Their Highnesses & Atstana de Regne Petrère 227 BY THE LAW OF THE COMMONWEALTH DOES ONE LAY DOWN THEIR LIFE IN BECOMING A BANDIT, as any who witnesses their crimes has the right to kill them where they stand. Within recent years, an unknown individual has used the cover of night at hours incredibly late to attempt to break into multiple homes within the Commonwealth, including the Palais Madeline. Thus far, there has been no known sightings nor information gained. We seek to remedy this, as no citizen deserves to live in fear nor under threat of burglary. The Crown implores its citizens to ensure all belongings are locked away securely as well as ensuring all doors are locked. Extra security measures may be discussed on a case-by-case basis with a member of the River Council. As the perpetrator has broken two of the Commonwealth’s laws on Crimes Against Property, as well as one Crime Against Chivalry, the perpetrator faces execution for their crimes upon discovery. Should any have information, or proof of justice served, they may receive a reward up to 500 minae. AS THE CATHERINIAN CODE STATES Of Banditry I. On The Definition Of Bandits i. A bandit is any person who attacks or threatens others to gain gear, knowledge, or to take another hostage, generally with intent to take mina, items, gear, or hostages for ransom. ii. A political bandit is a member of an aggressive state that participates in the above for the purposes of political or war gain. iii. Bandits generally wear dark clothes or un-marked armour, with covered faces. II. On The Bandit Clause i. Bandits are considered below the Law of the Commonwealth if caught in the act of banditry, and their lives are forfeit if they are undeniably bandits. ii. Any person may kill an active bandit within the Commonwealth without trial, as long as they can prove that they were undeniably a bandit. Of Crimes Against Property I. Theft i. The act of taking items that belong to another without permission. IV. Trespassing i. The act of entering a personal residence, restricted or otherwise off-limits area without invitation or permission, or refusal to leave. Of Crimes Against Chivalry IV. Lack of Honour i. The act of behaving dishonourably or disingenuously. Lying, breaking one’s word, cheating, or acting without common respect to another. S I G N E D, HIS HIGHNESS, Albéric Ètienne Temesch of the Petra, Archduke of the Petran Commonwealth, Prince of Riviènse, Duke of Seviel, Marquis de Val d’Estenou, Count of Moere, Neraquelles, Temesch, Torm Marian, and Vallagne, Viscount of Mies, Baron of Eagles Peak, Garmont, Hrenthorne, and Resmore, Protector of the Meadows. HER HIGHNESS, Estera Sofija Temesch of the Petra, Archduchess of the Petran Commonwealth, Princess of Riviènse, Duchess of Seviel, Marquise de Val d’Estenou, Countess of Moere, Neraquelles, Temesch, Torm Marian, and Vallagne, Viscountess of Mies, Baroness of Eagles Peak, Garmont, Hrenthorne, and Resmore, Protector of the Meadows.

THE RIVER’S BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS “And I have also breathed life into your heart, and the hearts of your children.” Virtue 1:5 Issued and averred by Their Highnesses & Atstana de Regne Petrère 227 AS THE SEASONS CHANGE THE MEADOWLANDS, So too does more change visit the Archducal household, change which is gladly welcomed. It is our utmost joy and pleasure to announce that Archduchess Estera has emerged healthy and well from her second labor, and with twice as many blessings as expected. The line of Temesch has borne many sets of twins throughout its generations, something which has come to be seen as a sign of luck, and true prosperity. If such is true, then the twins which now sleep within Palais Madelaine herald a bright future. Thus, the Archducal household welcomes their first daughter MORGANA HELGA TEMESCH OF THE PETRA (@Hom) and their second son, THOMAS ULYSSE TEMESCH OF THE PETRA ( @garentoft) As both children are in good health, a public baptism shall be held at the Shrine of Saint Juli’el, at the base of the Aldtree. The people of the Commonwealth are invited to witness the ceremony, and to greet the recovered Archduchess and her children. [2:00PM EST, SUNDAY MAY 24TH] S I G N E D, HIS HIGHNESS, Albéric Ètienne Temesch of the Petra, Archduke of the Petran Commonwealth, Prince of Riviènse, Duke of Seviel, Marquis de Val d’Estenou, Count of Moere, Neraquelles, Temesch, Torm Marian, and Vallagne, Viscount of Mies, Baron of Eagles Peak, Garmont, Hrenthorne, and Resmore, Protector of the Meadows. HER HIGHNESS, Estera Sofija Temesch of the Petra, Archduchess of the Petran Commonwealth, Princess of Riviènse, Duchess of Seviel, Marquise de Val d’Estenou, Countess of Moere, Neraquelles, Temesch, Torm Marian, and Vallagne, Viscountess of Mies, Baroness of Eagles Peak, Garmont, Hrenthorne, and Resmore, Protector of the Meadows.

@tilly ”Auntie,” The Archduchess tsk’d as she folded a woven blanket, handing it to her young son who promptly unfolded it in favor of having a cape. “There’s naen need for the passive aggression. It is for the benefit of the Kingdom’s people and for good hearted sportsmanship, after all.”

"It's unfortunate," The Archduchess commented aside to her handmaiden, sat at her desk with her son on her knee as she read the paper. "I wish I had been there, but it seemed I was not wanted. Truthfully, I had hoped to convince the good Siegfried and his family of a chance of reconciliation. But from what my husband recalled to me, when presented with the terms of probation, Siegfried requested his title and Oath be revoked. It's unfortunate, truly. I do hope Godan continues to guide them, wherever they may go."

GIFT OF THE MEADOWS “For I have blessed you with My miracle of creation, and you shall draw nearer to My throne by your labors.” Virtue 4:6 Issued and averred by Their Highnesses & Atstana de Regne Petrère 225 JOYOUS LAUGHTER FROM PALAIS MADELAINE, As the halls are graced with the presence of youth, and a new generation is heralded. One year ago upon this very day, Archduchess Estera Sofija and Archduke Albéric Ètienne welcomed their first child, an infant boy. Though the birth went without incident, the child came sooner than expected and emerged unusually small, and so it was decided one year would be waited to ensure good health. The Archduchess swiftly recovered from her labors, and so too did the boy eventually grow fit and strong. House Temesch of the Petra has spent the past months reveling in the joy of its newfound blessing, and shall now share that joy with the Commonwealth as a whole. It is the greatest honor to formally announce the arrival of the Archducal household’s first son, who has been gifted the name NAPOLÉON JOSEPH TEMESCH OF THE PETRA ( @Travisty ) In accordance with Pétrine tradition, Napoléon Joseph is declared Heir of the Petran Commonwealth and shall be styled as the Count of Valfleur, until such time as he willingly forfeits the title to an eligible sibling or ascends to his father’s throne. It is the greatest hope of the Archducal household that his birth heralds a new age for the Commonwealth, and he shall grow to become a beacon of honor and chivalry for his people. S I G N E D, HIS HIGHNESS, Albéric Ètienne Temesch of the Petra, Archduke of the Petran Commonwealth, Prince of Riviènse, Duke of Seviel, Marquis de Val d’Estenou, Count of Moere, Neraquelles, Temesch, Torm Marian, and Vallagne, Viscount of Mies, Baron of Eagles Peak, Garmont, Hrenthorne, and Resmore, Protector of the Meadows. HER HIGHNESS, Estera Sofija Temesch of the Petra, Archduchess of the Petran Commonwealth, Princess of Riviènse, Duchess of Seviel, Marquise de Val d’Estenou, Countess of Moere, Neraquelles, Temesch, Torm Marian, and Vallagne, Viscountess of Mies, Baroness of Eagles Peak, Garmont, Hrenthorne, and Resmore, Protector of the Meadows.

- THE - “I would love to live like a river flows, carried by the surprise of its own unfolding.” Issued and averred by His Highness Published 8th of the River’s Waking, Atstana de Regne Petrère, 223. FOREWORD Once, there was a young heir, and a young Lady. Both fresh into adulthood and unsure of their place, each embarked upon a search for purpose, stretching a hand into the world outside their towering keeps. In doing so, the heir and the Lady found each other. A friendship quickly became courtship, and from it grew the true sense of companionship and trust upon which all unions between men and women thrive. In the Lady, the heir found support and wisdom. In the heir, the Lady found purpose and kindness. Together they form a strong foundation, upon which the great structures of the Commonwealth’s future shall be built. The Archducal House of Temesch is proud to announce the betrothal and upcoming nuptials of Albéric Ètienne Temesch of the Petra and Estera Sofija of Whitewood. Their union represents far more than just their promise to each other, but the groundwork of faith and trust that the future of the Petran Commonwealth shall be hence built upon. Thus, the day they are wed shall not just be a celebration of the Archducal couple, but a celebration of the people. It shall be a day of joy and festivities for all to revel in, so that the good and hardworking people of the Petra may see themselves rewarded. FESTIVITIES ➼ LE MARIAGE D'ALBÉRIC ÈTIENNE ET ESTERA SOFIJA The Marriage of Albéric Étienne and Estera Sofija All citizens of the Commonwealth and greater Idunia shall be invited to witness the union of these two souls under God, performed in traditional fashion beneath the Neras Aldtree. The heir of the Commonwealth and his betrothed shall exchange their vows, and be bound henceforth by mutual faith, respect, and love. ➼ LA DANSE AU CLAIR DE LUNE The Moonlight Dance Following the conclusion of the ceremony, the final festivities take place within the Palais Madelaine where the Autumn Courts shall present a ball named in honour of the future Archduchess, Lady Estera. There shall be food, drink, and music throughout the night. Though not required, a dress code of blues and golds is encouraged. INVITATIONS HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Emperor Marcus Tiberias Emperor of Azuras, and his Royal Pedigree HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Tar-Pharazôn Arthalion High King of Idunia, and his Royal Pedigree HER GRACE, Duchess Karla von Theonus Duchess of Vohenheim, and her Noble Pedigree THE MOST HONORABLE, Margravine Alma Reinhold Margravine of Abhmòine, and her Noble Pedigree THE HONORABLE, Viscount Jean-Baptise Viscount of Joyeuse, and his Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Baron Cassian Valkonen Baron of Valkenfeldt, and his Noble Pedigree HER LADYSHIP, Baroness Anna-Marie Carnelle Baroness of Rosalervo, and her Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Baron Siegfried von Schwanstein Baron of Schwanau, and his Noble Pedigree HER EXCELLENCY, Countess Nuvilta Whitewood-Blaxton Countess of Silasia, and her Noble Pedigree HER HIGHNESS, Princess Sascha Glennmaer Princess of Tir-Glas, and her Noble Pedigree 𝐇ER GRACE, Dame Saelind Vourkehardt Duchy of Ardrossil, and her Noble Pedigree HER LADYSHIP, Lady Elise Callaghan Lady of Dûncoed, and her Noble Pedigree HIS HIGHNESS, Prince Aegir Colborn Prince of Slesvik, and his Noble Pedigree HIS GRACE, Duke Zygmunt Euler Duke of Adria, Count of Eulersburg, and his Noble Pedigree THE HONORABLE, Count Milos Sarkozic Count of Aldersburg, and his Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Adelbert Wick Baron of the Wickwald, and his Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Castille Fontaine Baron of Montereine, and his Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Lady Sloane Pachakutiq Lady-Paramount of Virú, and her Noble Pedigree HER LADYSHIP, Lady Evangeline Salazar Baroness of Salazar, and her Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Lord Bârathân d’Artagnan Baron of Castelmere, and his Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Lord Calthunor O’Rourke Lord of Ildon, and his Noble Pedigree HER LADYSHIP, Lady Azruphêl Mithrenion Lady of Angrenost, and her Noble Pedigree HIS LORDSHIP, Lord Arthur Marsyr, Lord of Cartref Mor, and his Noble Pedigree S I G N E D , HIS GRACE, Albéric Ètienne of the Petra, Archduke of the Petra, Marquis de Val d’Estenou, Count of Temesch, Torm Marian, and Moere, Viscount of Mies, Baron of Garmont, Vallagne-en-Petra, Eagles Peak, Hrenthorne, Wittenbach and Resmore, Protector of the Meadows & Defender of Liberty HER HIGHNESS, Mattea Asadha, Princess of the Petra, Countess of the Phoenixsphere, Grand Chamberlain of the Pétrine Court of Autumn HER LADYSHIP, Estera Sofija Whitewood, Lady of Silasia.

An aging Dame of the Petra nodded, smiling subtly as she read the page from the young Pontiff. A wise man he had proven to be, worthy of being the second Caius.

Sat at a bar when Amelia arrived was an old man. He was tall, and pale, freckles scattering his scarred face, glasses drooping down his hooked nose. He sat alone, taping his fingers against the wooden counter of the Aevosian keep of Reinhold, letting his wedding ring thud against the surface. As heels clicked against the flooring, the old Knight looked up from his daydreaming. Across his features, a crooked smile appeared- One that would look mischievous to any who were not familiar. But Amelia would have grown up seeing that smile in portraits. With a wave of his hand, a glass of whiskey on ice in the other, the late Count Wilford Reinhold beckoned his great-granddaughter to join him. "Ye shoul' sit, Amy. I've been waitin' tae meet ye."

Issued by the House VON WESENBURG In the Year of 2072 Imp. THE HOUSE VON WESENBURG IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE the birth of not one, but two children unto the Burgrave and Burgravine. The firstborn child, named ROSLIND TEREZA, was born healthy in the year 2071 after an incredibly difficult pregnancy for the Burgravine. With her mother’s eyes and her auburn locks, the young girl has charmed herself already to the people with her bright smile and calm demeanor. ONLY ONE YEAR LATER, the Heir of the House was born after a much easier carry for the Lady von Wesenburg. The spitting image of his father and predecessors, LEOFWINE ALBERICH has proven similarly easy-going to his elder sister in his first months, happiest at the side of his mother and father around the keep and enjoying strolls in the gardens. AFTER MUCH TIME TO HEAL AND BOND WITH THE CHILDREN, the Burgravine has made a full recovery thanks to the prayers and well wishes of close family and friends. Enough thanks and blessings cannot be given for the health and safety of the family. May GOD in His glory continue to bless the family in the years ahead, and may both children inherit the wisdom and grace of their parents alike. The Lady von Wesenburg and her babes, 2072 Signed, His Lordship, Aerik von Wesenburg Burgrave von Wesenburg Her Ladyship, Vespira von Wesenburg Burgravine von Wesenburg, Lady of d'Arkent

THE COMING OF AGE OF 9TH HARREN’S FOLLEY, 275 S.A It is with great jubilation that the House of Whitewood announces the coming of age of their youngest daughter, Estera Whitewood, the Moonlight of Whitewood! To celebrate her 18th nameday, all Canonists in good standing are invited to the County of Silasia to partake in the merriment, to be held within the County during the month of Horen’s Calling in the year 276 S.A. CELEBRATIONS RECEPTION & RITE Guests will be received in the halls of Castle Berzynstadt and will witness the bestowal of the Arkasan to Lady Estera, an ancient Silasian tradition to denote one’s coming of age. Afterwards, The Countess of Whitewood will grant a quest to Lady Estera as part of the Whitewood trial of Ritterik, so that the young lady may prove herself capable and self-sufficient in all ways demanded of her station as a noble and a Whitewood. FEAST & DANCE Right after the completion of the rights, guests are welcome to partake in traditional Silasian food: venison, boar, fish; and dance with one another and ask Lady Estera for her hand in dance with the blessing of the Count and Countess Whitewood. BOUT OF BOWS As Lady Estera chose to study the ways of archery, in her honour a bow dueling tournament (PVP) will be held with a prize of 300 Mina. The tourney will take place in front of the Druzhina Barracks, after the conclusion of the dancing, and will be elimination style. INVITATIONS FORMAL INVITATIONS ARE EXTENDED TO: His Imperial Majesty, HADRIAN I, Emperor of Man, and His Imperial Retinue His Princely Highness, MARTIUS VAN AERT, Prince of Blackvale, and His Noble Pedigree His Princely Highness, CASSIUS MARENO, Prince of Myrine, and His Noble Pedigree His Princely Highness, SIEGFRIED BARCLAY, Prince of Reinmar, and His Noble Pedigree His Princely Highness, EDWARD ALSTION, Archduke of Alba, and His Noble Pedigree His Highness, ADRIAN D’ASTURIA, Duke of Asturias, and His Noble Pedigree His Grace, SIR LOTHAR D’AMAURY, Duke of Lorraine, and His Noble Pedigree His Grace, EAROSLAV ROSTOVA, Duke of Krukiv, and His Noble Pedigree His Grace, HEINRIK LUDOVAR, Duke of Kvasz, and His Noble Pedigree His Grace, DUNCAN BARUCH, Duke of Valwyck and His Noble Pedigree The Right Honorable, SIR ANTONIUS HELANE, Count of Valmont, and His Noble Pedigree The Right Honorable, EZRA DE SENNA, Count of Edessa, and His Noble Pedigree His Lordship, IOHANNIS BASILEUS, Baron of Cascanova, and His Noble Pedigree Her Ladyship, DAME LORELEI ENSWERP, Baroness of Rethel, and Her Noble Pedigree PERSONAL INVITATIONS ARE EXTENDED TO: His Highness, JOSEPH TEMESCH, Archduke of the Petra, and His Noble Pedigree Her Highness, MAGDALENA TEMESCH, Archduchess the Petra, and Her Noble Pedigree The Right Honorable, AMELIA REINHOLD Countess of Anairgrid, and Her Noble Pedigree His Imperial Highness, MARCUS TIBERIAS, Crown Prince of Man, and His Imperial Pedigree Her Imperial Highness, VALENTINÁ RENATA, Crown Princess of Man, and Her Imperial Pedigree ALL CANONISTS IN GOOD STANDING ARE INVITED Signed, The Right Honourable, Nuvilta Svajone Blaxton-Whitewood, Countess of Silasia, Baroness of Blackwell, Lilenburg & Swan’s Keep, Lady of Sterhal Matriarch of House Whitewood & Blaktonite Dynasty Protector of Silasians, Watcher of the Birch, Imperial High Emissary His Lordship, Kajus Joren Whitewood, Count of Silasia, Imperial Court Smith Her Ladyship, Estera Sofija Whitewood [!] Official Seal of House Whitewood

"A letter for you, meine Dame." Came a voice from outside the nursery doors. "From the Colborns." From within, the Burgravine sat comfortably as she held her infant daughter close, smiling as the maid stepped within with parchment in hand. "Varrik and Dietrich? Are they coming to see little Rosy?" Asked she as her free hand gently took the letter, bouncing her babe gently to keep her asleep. It was so troublesome to keep the little girl down- But she'd managed, at last. With Aerik busy, and herself locked at home, any word from the outside world was a joy after such a troubling pregnancy. "Nicht quite, meine Dame." "What do you mean?" That regal brow furrowed in concern as Roslind was exchanged to the maid, unraveling the letter quickly. Stormy eyes read the contents over, and over, and over again. Dead. Varrik, dead. Who she remembered so fondly, always so strong. He held his head so high, and promised her adventure, after adventure. it had been foolish, of course, but she was so little then. She was so little, and she loved her elder cousin so dearly. Even with years away, that fondness never faded. It grew, grew to include his husband, his children, the life he had built for himself and his family. How? How could he be dead? Varrik had held the world upon his shoulders and stood tall as if it were nothing but pauldrons. After she was maimed, he had cared so deeply. Fought so hard for the justice she deserved, for the justice that was needed. He saw the danger, even if few else did. And for his wisdom, he was pushed aside. It wasn't fair. Tears were pouring down before the Lady von Wesenburg could stop them. A hand upon her lips, nausea churning in her stomach as every bone in her body sought to scream, and hit, and sob. But that was not what he would have wanted. "Leave me." She bid unto the servant, holding that parchment close to her heart, for it was all she had left of the man her cousin was.

The Petran Dame-Inquisitor closed her eyes in utter shock, disgust, and disappointment. There were no words to be said, no quip to be had. Just complete shock and bewilderment. Once again, a new low had been found.