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In the days following the battle at Enswerp Analiese's path did not often cross with her recent acquaintance. She, along with the Marnans, rested at Fort Alba in the hours following the battle; her part was small, though her untrained body ached from the few minutes of battle she saw. The camp whirred with news of the Petran King's capture and preparations began for a small militia to march on Vallange with hopes of his rescue from his Petran captors, though news of the King's death had dispelled any belief that he may be returned to continue his fight. The Alstion Princess found solace away from the talks of battle and raids in a small tower at the fort's edge, it was there that she wrote, Adrian, You have my condolences, I've only just heard of your father's passing as you're likely to in the coming hours. He was brave to have staked his claim for what was his and fought valiantly against the Petran aggressors during their attack. You have, now, a mantle you must take up in his stead. Know that you have the support of the Marnan Brigade. Forget not that what you do is true and right for what the realm needs. May your path be illuminated by God's divine light., Analiese The letter found itself to the, now, King Adrian upon his return to Enswerp, rolled neatly and clasped with a seal of red wax.

Analiese Alstion received the pamphlet in her quarters within the Hand of Horen, a set of ladies in wait aided her in a dress fitting. Sleeves tightened around her arms and laces bound a corset around her waist as the third of the handmaidens held the pamphlet before her eyes, "I would fancy a trip to the eastern coast." mused she absentmindedly, though the words of the manifesto weighed on her mind for hours following.

The Grand Lady - in her decrepit state, plagued by an unending infection - sat opposite the Queen in the Aulic Chamber. The hearth cast shadows across her gaunt features, the otherwise dark room flickered in the crackling flame's light as the pair sat in a heavy silence. Vy should have seen him dealt with when vy had the chance. The woman’s voice echoed in the Queen’s mind, the Grand Lady’s illness-riddled form only worsened in Nataliya’s nightmare. Marjoreya lectured the Queen with eyes unmet with the Barbanov's own gaze. Her features were painted with contempt as her eyes slid to meet Nataliya's at last. "He will see vy undone." she spoke plainly to her. "He stains vyr household." she drawled on, though her utterance cut short, interrupted by a fit of coughs the Ruthern pushed into a monogramed handkerchief - now stained with blood.

THE HAESENI RITE OF ADULTHOOD VE JULIYAFEST Issued by the GRAND MAER & ROYAL COURT On this 16th day of Joma ag Umund of 532 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, THE TIME COMES, ONCE IN EVERY GENERATION, WHERE A GREAT NUMBER OF OUR KINGDOM’S CHILDREN GROW INTO THEIR MATURITY. Each child, slowly leaving behind the grueling days of lengthy lessons and training in favor of the bright future that lay ahead, putting those efforts to use in service to our great nation. Be it as soldiers, politicians, merchants, or courtiers, the future of Hanseti-Ruska blooms into this springtide once more. Thus, the Court of Kastell Lesanov and the Office of the Grand Maer declare this season of JULIYAFEST, the traditional Haeseni festival that welcomes both the weather’s turn from winter into spring, as well as heralding the coming of our realm’s next generation in maturity. St. Juliya of Paradisius is the Patron of Matrimony, the union between man and woman. However, as penned by Blessed Queen Amaya of Venzia in 501 E.S., this patronage can also be interpreted as a marriage between Haeseni and their country as well. It is a celebration not just of adulthood and the potential for matrimonial bliss, but likewise the honoring of our kingdom’s success and perseverance. The festivities shall span over the course of three saint’s days, so that all citizens of Hanseti-Ruska and those beyond may partake in this most holy of merriments. The Month of Vyzmey ag Hyff Friday, June 14th, 4pm EST MORRIVI MATCHMAKER The phrase “Morrivi Matchmaker” is derived from the New Marian word “Morrivi,” which translates to “Spring”. This unique event allows individuals to participate in a personality test, ultimately leading them to their perfect match. As a prelude to the grander festivities of Juliyafest, this particular occasion serves as a delightful opportunity for individuals who may struggle to find a suitable partner to simply leave it up to fate. To be hosted by the Grand Maer Ioanna Kortrevich. The Month of Gronna ag Droba Saturday, June 15th, 3pm EST THE MORTESKVAN MAIDENTILT As the men of the season have had many an opportunity to prove themselves in the kingdom’s tourneys, it is only fair that so too do our beloved maidens. In the Maidentilt, a suitor and a lady share the same horse, with the lord taking the reins and the woman holding the lance. These couples shall face one another in a tournament of jousting, engaging in three tilts per bout. They who strike their opponents the most, or knock them from their horse, win. Should they go three tilts without striking true, they shall face one another in unhindered mounted combat until one party is unhorsed. To be hosted by Duchess Tatiyana vas Ruthern. The Month of Tov ag Yermey Sunday, June 16th, 4pm EST DANCE OF THE ARANYWELD At the conclusion of our Juliyafest, a great ball shall be held within the halls of Kastell Lesanov to serve as a final herald of the oncoming springtide. Themed after the bloom that the warmer months bring unto nature, guests shall be encouraged to dress in shades of Haeseni flora as an ode to the season of abundance. This will also be the time for any who intend to make a proposal of courtship or betrothal to do so, presenting their intended with the traditional Verevka belt. This symbol of devotion is valued greatly by all Haeseni, a showing of affection to that person with whom you wish to spend the rest of your life. To be hosted by Queen Nataliya of Ghaestenwald and the Royal Court. GODANI JEST WIELKI, HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Ivan VIII, by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Order of the Crow, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Slesvik, Solvesborg, and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia, and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald, and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Markev, Nenzing, Siegrad, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Astfield, Buck, Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, and Rytsburg, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector and Lord of the Highlanders, etcetera. HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Nataliya of Ghaestenwald, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Order of the Crow, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia 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, Protector and Lady of the Highlanders, etcetera. HER EXCELLENCY, Marjoreya vas Ruthern, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska HER LADYSHIP, Svetlana vas Ruthern, Court Chamberlain of Kastell Lesanov HER LADYSHIP, Ioanna d’Arkent-Kortrevich, Grand Maer of New Valdev

"Finally." coughed Marjoreya Ruthern, drinking a celebratory Carrion.

The Noble Assembly Est. 530 Ehr Sigmunda Issued by the GRAND LADY There stands a precedent for the nobility to be called, regularly, to be in the company of their liege at Kastell Lesanov - or any similar establishment. Thus, the Aulic Council sees it fit to restructure the historical Herzenvrest. The refreshed formative structure will be as follows; 一一一一一一一一 Gathered annually either at the Court of Kastell Lesanov, the noble peers congregate to discuss matters of state, both internal and external, in an informal setting. Amidst the backdrop of banquets, hunts, or sporting events, the primary emphasis remains on topical discussions aimed at bettering the nation. Whether it involves assessing the performance of peers, reviewing proposed policies, resolving conflicts, or noble agendas, the paramount goal is to uphold the noble peerage's vital role in governance. This assembly not only cultivates merriment among the peerage but also serves as a platform for fostering unity and shared responsibility. Further, this assembly is made exclusive to the peers of the realm and their consorts. The first of these assemblies will be held on the 5th of Wzuvar and Byvca in the year 531 E.S.. UNDER GODAN’S WATCHFUL EYE, HER EXCELLENCY, the Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska Marjoreya of Vidaus

Marjoreya had, for some time, been at odds with her father - and the entirety of her family for that matter. But, her peace had finally been found, it was not as she would have wished it, but it was peace. Now she can choose to feel her father's pride, his love, and now he is not here to force her to feel otherwise with his stern gaze and cold addressment. Now she could no longer disappoint him.

ONCE MORE THE HAESENI FIELDS HAVE BROUGHT FORTH A BOUNTIFUL HARVEST. At once the farmers of our beloved Valdevic fields are called to present their wares unto the Haeseni populace. Within the month of Jula and Piov, in the year of our Lord 524 E.S., the people of Hanseti-Ruska shall gather in the hamlet of Waltonburg where this springtide market shall take place. In celebration of the impending coronation of our King Ivan and Queen Nataliya, the court sees fit to give patronage to the common-folk in their celebration of their beloved monarchs. Venture forth and peruse the stalls laden with cheeses, fragrant herbs, and Scyfling mead. Partake in merriment as you sample the savory pies, freshly baked bread, and succulent meats that our skilled cooks have prepared with care. Further, the efforts to fundraise are still at work and there shall be stalls dedicated to exactly that at the aforementioned market. HER EXCELLENCY, The Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska HER GRACE, Alexandra of Merryweather, Duchess of Valwyck & the Lady Chamberlain FIRRESS, Makaela Mondblume Venna

In private, away from the prying eyes of court, the Grand Lady allowed a single tear to slide through the peaks and valleys of her gaunt countenance. She would miss Amaya, though she would tell no one.

At her father's flank Calliope Analiese nodded intently at his words, secretly - and not so secretly per the letters she'd exchanged with her companions - the princess had longed for travel soon.

Majoreya, the Countess Malkovya skimmed the missive with fury behind her eyes. "Vy will niet fail mea." she muttered to her child, Casper ( @Mannyy ). The woman knelt to level with the boy, her eyes matched with his as her cold hands clutched his cheeks. "Vy can niet." she commanded him.

Beyond the Veil of Night An expedition into the Haeseni forest Issued By; THE GRAND LADY 11th of Jula and Piov 518 E.S. The Haeseni are a hunting peoples. These lands that we inhabit are abounding with wildlife awaiting capture. God has blessed us, following the settlement of this land by the bygone King Georg I, with plentiful harvest each autumn and bountiful game to hunt. Amidst all of this game and fauna, something lurks in the shadows of the redwood. In the dead of night illuminated eyes watch those who dare travel under the cloak of darkness, far off guttural roars send flocks of birds darting off in different directions overhead, and the glimpse of a dreamlike ivory stag cantering through forest catches anyone’s eye. These are all sights not uncommon to the Haeseni redwood. — And thus, it is imperative we seek to gain what knowledge the forest hopes to give. We, the Courts of Hanseti-Ruska, call upon the citizenry of the Dual Kingdom to venture forth into great Haeseni forest in search of what lurks beyond the veil of night. Those seeking to join this hunting party please make your wishes known by letter to the Grand Lady. Under God’s watchful eye, HER EXCELLENCY, Marjoreya of Vidaus, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska, Countess consort of Malkovya, Viscountess consort of Venzia, Baroness consort of Bethlenen, and Lady of Vitraval

Winter’s Babe Twenty-first day of Wzuvar and Byvca, 518 E.S. A babe had been born, two royal children now born to the Barbanov Household and still the womb of the palace’s Grand Lady remained barren. Had her spirit been so unsettled that there was no place for a child to take root within her? Had she kept herself from pregnancy? Was she so far from God now that she could no longer foster life - what she was meant to do. Marjoreya prayed for a child, she petitioned the Patriarch to bless her womb and sought to pray alongside her small retinue of handmaidens at the break of dawn each morning and once more beneath the cloak of night. Though it was all for naught. Still she was without the thing she had wished for more than all else. She dreamt of her children; first a daughter who had hair similar to her own and eyes as verdant and bright as she - Marjoreya - and her siblings all bore. Second, a son, with tresses like his father’s and what she could only assume were strong Scyfling genes. She heard their jovial shouts and smelled the grass stains on their clothes. She could see them from the windows of Malkovya playing in the castle’s courtyard, the honey-yellow beams of light bouncing from their skin and reflecting from the puddles between which they jumped. This brought a smile to her face, one rarely featured upon her gaunt countenance. A warm and soft smile, one she pictured would have been present upon her mother’s face. Though, as a feeling so unfamiliar to her rushes down from her head and out to her fingertips. A feeling akin to the soothing warmth of a hearth from afar and yet as shocking as the cold of winter’s first day on one’s unready skin. Nonetheless she wakes. Her eyes rise to the dank walls of her suite at the Esrova Palace. The feeling she had dreamt of fell from her body and she sought to feel it once more, her eyes closed slowly shut as she formed her hands into fists as if to conjure the feeling up from where it rushed away, though her efforts were to no avail. She had been at court for many years now and seldom made trips to Malkovya in the country, however, after months of dreaming she was with child. It was as if she called forth the child from heaven and brought him here through sheer will. After a few short months of an arduous pregnancy, during which most of her time was spent locked away from the public eye, she wrote to the Lord Colborn of such news. Detailing the difficult few months she had been away from him and conveying her excitement for the impending birth of their heir. – Marjoreya sat, stony-faced, within the palace gardens, considering the perfectly-curated bed of roses that stood before her. Silence enveloped her for the first time in what felt like months, and she was left with only her sorrows for company. She reached toward a stem of roses – so beautiful and yet so embroiled in malice – as the grating sound of leather against gravel assaulted her senses. In the panic of the messenger’s approach, the Countess’s finger pricked a thorn in passing, and she cried out in anger. She thought to scold the approaching courier, with his haggard frame and frantic, breathless movement, but he soon pounded his fist to his chest and bowed before her. Mikhaila had fallen desperately ill, the courier informed Marjoreya. The physics were afraid she would not make it, and that the stress of childbirth might accelerate her descent. No sooner had the news been delivered than Marjoreya, in a fit of rage, ordered the courier to be gone from the palace. Pitifully, Marjoreya thought first of herself. Why had she been so forsaken by God? Why had He given Mikhaila a house full of smiling children - she who deserved none of them? And why had He given Marjoreya nothing? Crimson droplets of blood continued to drip onto the untainted snow, and all she could do was stand there idly, lamenting her misfortunes. – The labor was a harrowing ordeal, and it seemed God - despite her prayers - had been indifferent to her suffering. In the end, Marjoreya brought forth a pair of twins. An air of death hung over them, eerily familiar to the Count and Countess, though within her, however feeble she had become, pride lingered. She had made fools of all that thought her barren, all that doubted her. Her features were illuminated with the flickering light of a candle as her eyes languidly drifted across the otherwise silent room toward the screams of her children, her true pride was within them now. A faint smile crossed her pale lips as her eyes traced over the babies that cried across the room from her, their black tresses that resembled her own, but she felt unlike she imagined. The feeling was not as she had dreamt it to be, there was no warmth that swelled from within as if a hearth had been lit at her center. She felt cold. As she watched her children be prodded and examined by nuns, she felt herself begin to slip. Her eyes flickered shut and her breaths began to feel labored. Her chest rose and fell shakily as uneasy breaths dried her lips further and her shoulders began to sink inward. A hand shakily rose to press against her sweat-soaked face, and the room seemed to fall silent for only a second before it was pierced once more by the wails of the pair of newborn babes. Her eyes flickered shut and it felt as if her very life force was waning. She had brought two lives into this world, but at what cost? Was it her own life that she must pay in return? Finally her eyes remained shut and her breaths slowed, her hands fell to her sides and her head rested back into the pillows… To the citizens of Hanseti-Ruska, It is with great jubilation that the Comital House Colborn announces the beginning of its next generation.The first Colborn lord of his generation has been brought unto us by blessing of God after an arduous tenure of pregnancy. With immense delight we declare him Casper Colborn, born 21st of Wzuvar and Byvca to the Count and Countess Malkovya. Alongside the Colborn Lordling we celebrate the birth of a girl, born only minutes after her elder brother, Margarethe Colborn born 21st of Wzuvar and Byvca. With these letters we declare them our son and daughter as witnessed by Mother Vivienne. We pray to God for good health, safekeeping, prosperity, and preservation of them. Given under our Seal at Vitraval, Witnessed by us and Mother Vivienne on the 21st of Wzuvar and Byvca in the year of our Godan, 518 E.S.. Under the watchful eye of God, THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Cassian Colborn, Count of Malkovya, Viscount of Venzia, Baron of Bethlenen, Lord of Vitraval, the Protector of Scyflings HER EXCELLENCY, Marjoreya of Vidaus, Countess consort of Malkovya, Viscountess consort of Venzia, Baroness consort of Bethlenen, Lady of Vitraval, and Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska As witnessed by, Mother Vivienne of the West, Priestess of the Holy Church

The Grand Princess' Ruthern-born companion lets out a sigh of relief, though upon gazing toward her own childless womb, her thoughts are clouded with envious rage.