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THE LADY PALATINE Duchess Isabel Baruch of Valwyck A biography on the life of Isabel Baruch as Viscountess of Voron, later Duchess of Valwyck, and Lady Palatine. Chronicled by; Lady Irena vas Ruthern CONTENTS I. Introduction II. Early Life III. Political Career IV. Resignation and Life after Palatine INTRODUCTION Some months ago the Lady Palatine issued me, and my fellow wards, the hefty task of selecting a woman in Haeseni history who held power in her own right. This led me on a path of prolonged contemplation in who I might choose to read about so extensively, who might be interesting enough after the third or fourth book or essay. At last, though she is not my blood or are we directly in relation aside from her sister, Duchess Margrait (the Duchess of Vidaus by union to the Duke Mikhail var Ruthern, later elevated to Duchess in her own right by her husband), I landed on the Duchess and Palatine Isabel Baruch. Isabel Alexandra Baruch (Common: Isabella Alexandra; Ayrikiv: Iseabail Leacsaidh) was the eighth Duchess of Valwyck and 33rd Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska. Upon her inheritance, she was the second Matriarch of Baruch after her mother, Princess Anastasya Isabel Barbanov, who was elevated to Co-Duchess alongside the Duke, Isabel’s father, Duke Eirik Baruch. She was the second Lady Palatine after Marcella Barclay who served for two years, 63 years prior. She served as Palatine for 15 years and as Duchess for 17, during which she published a number of edicts and led the Kingdom, alongside King Karl III, in Haense’s involvement in the Successor’s War. Following her abdication, she retired to Valwyck and aided in the construction of Lollybroch, a holding belonging to Baruch. She lived at the frontier of the Karenina movement in her lifetime, and stands still as a pillar of the rise of absolute primogeniture being written into law in Haense. EARLY LIFE Childhood and Family Born on the 4th of Msitza and Dargund, 401 E.S. on the same day as her cousin, Lord Branimar Andrik Barbanov-Bihar, and announced in an untraditional way by her mother, twin sister to the Lord Branimar’s father, as the stars had aligned to give them children on the same day, making them pseudo twins. And thus, their births were announced in tandem¹ alongside great elation from the respective households. It is said that Isabel was betrothed early in her youth to her husband, Maric var Ruthern. Rumors spoke that it was an arrangement formed in a drunken stupor in the crypts of Valwyck between her father and the Duke Rhys of Vidaus. The Dukes pledged a union between son and daughter, and daughter and nephew to solidify an alliance between the two Ducal Houses. It was there that the betrothals of both Isabel, and her younger sister, Margrait, were decided. Isabel spent much of her childhood at Haense’s crown city of Karosgrad in which her mother was a Royal Princess and her father a politician, becoming Lord Palatine a year after his daughter was born. Though, despite their demanding roles in public life, Anastasya and Eirik were still doting parents to their eldest daughter and her sisters. They were a close family, often taking trips together to the country to visit their holding of Lichtestadt, though most of their time was spent in the city. On one trip in particular, a year after the birth of their twin daughters, Eileen and Freya, there was a visit from the Orenian delegation at the time including the Baron Carrington and his young daughter, Amadea. The two, Isabel and Amadea, were said to be quick friends, and during the future Queen’s many visits between Oren and Karosgrad, she would often visit Isabel and her sisters. Isabel was quite popular in Karosgrad within the courts, though she did have a short-lived feud with the Princess Maya Cecilya, the youngest of two Royal Princesses at the time, wherein the princess accused the Baruch of witchcraft. Maya received a lot of backlash from the missive despite her young age, and shortly published another striking her previous accusations2. The Karanina Accord Isabel was born under the reign of King Sigismund III and Queen consort Emma of Jerovitz, denoted in history as a time of great Haeseni prosperity. During this time, only catalysed by Isabel’s birth, one of the chief political discussions was one dear to Queen Emma, being female inheritance. At the time, the Haurul Caezk read; “Landed titles and their land shall be inherited, whether after death or abdication: Firstly by the eldest son and his line, Secondly by the eldest daughter and her line, Thirdly by the eldest brother and his line, Fourthly by the eldest sister and her line. . .” Meaning, at the time of her birth, Isabel was recognized as heir-presumptive, but should the Duke bear a son she, and her younger sisters, would be superseded by him in the Valwyck line of succession. Conversations of female inheritance had begun years prior in Haense’s imperial neighbor, Holy Oren, begun by the Princess Imperial, Elizabeth Anne in her widely popular Rosemoor Convention3 which called for the Orenian laws to recognize a peer’s eldest child as their heir, regardless of gender. The topic quickly gained notoriety in both realms, Northern and Southern alike, where women began to wonder why they’d been skipped over in favor of younger brothers. News of the radical movement in Oren spread to Haense, striking inspiration in their Queen, Emma of Jervoitz. Thus, she published a missive titled, “The Karenina Accord”4 in which she detailed her plan to see Haeseni peers recognize their daughters and sons equally on the matter of inheritance. Akin to their southern counterparts there was some discourse initially when the idea was first discussed. Some lords, fearful of their station as peers of the realm being impeded upon by their elder sisters and others, claimed tradition as their chief reason for standing against the bill. The first sitting of the Duma to discuss the Karenina Accord was in 410 E.S., only months after a protest in the Karosgrad square had gone awry when a boy, unconnected to the Karenina protestors, started a fire that was quenched just before any serious damage could be caused. The political climate of the time roused many people who were impassioned in either direction. A “Dracomir Rorikov,” in particular, was very vocal against the bill5, citing tradition and Haeseni culture as his reason. He was combated with a wall of Karenina lobbyists, namely Princess Anastasya Baruch, Isabel’s own mother, Lady Marie Ruthern, and Queen Emma herself. After five years of protest in the streets and at court by Queen Emma and the women of Haense, and two separate sessions of the Royal Duma, success was seen at last with a publication from the Office of the Palatine, headed by Duke Eirik, which rewrote the law and changed Haense’s peerage inheritance law to absolute primogeniture6 naming Isabel heiress-apparent as opposed to her previous heiress-presumptive. Education Despite the late nature of her naming as heiress-apparent, Isabel had already begun her studies just as any other heir might have. Her doting father believed in the education of his children, regardless of birth, order, or sex. And so, Isabel was taught as any Lord her age might have been, even joining her father as Deputy Palatine later along in her career. She excelled in diplomacy and went on to aid her father, and later King Karl III, in writing many publications pertaining to foreign politics. Aside from her formal education, Isabel enjoyed fishing and sailing, two traditional sports within House Baruch, of which the sigil of one of their chief titles, the Barony of Riveryn, depicts two fish leaping from a river. It is assumed that these interests were shared amongst her sisters. POLITICAL CAREER Member of the Royal Duma 417 E.S. - 419 E.S. Following her extensive education in Haeseni policy, and early introduction into the matters of state by way of her father’s station as Lord Palatine, Isabel decided to run for Royal Alderwoman7 at the age of sixteen. In 417 E.S., the Baruch ran a successful campaign for a seat in the Royal Duma with stances to uplift the voices of common folk and protect the wildlife of the Haeseni ecosystem which was a stance not often seen from a member of the noblesse at the time. Once voted in, Isabel stood for exactly what she promised the Haeseni people. She presented a bill before the Duma which suggested the construction of a Royal Menagerie with a suitable habitat to display animals and educate the people of Haense. There was little debate in the Duma and the bill passed into law unanimously. Further, she wrote a letter to the Duma about the ongoing feud between Barclay and Ruthern8 in which she proposed a series of questions posed to the Duma for debate. The letter included whether or not Aulic councillors should be forced into neutrality which was widely questioned, especially given the station of both the Dukes Ruthern and Barclay respectively. Isabel went on to vote on many matters that pertained to the feud such as a bill condemning the armed Barclay retinue to enter Vidaus, and voted against the participation of household guards in feuds. It is likely that most of her support throughout the series of discussions in the Royal Duma was because of her sister’s station as the betrothed to the Baron of Rostig and heir of Ruthern, Mikhail var Ruthern. For the most part, Isabel seemed most concerned with a controlled environment in which the feud could unfold. She said in one session of the Royal Duma9; “I believe that matters such as these would be settled easily if there was a proper law to resort to regarding House feuds. In the instance that they cannot come to an agreement, that is.” [...] “the law should be expanded upon in cases like these.” After a storied time in the Royal Duma, Isabel was selected to be Envoy to the Vale. To commemorate her achievement both as an ambassador and her tenure as a Royal Alderman, Duke Eirik published the Daughter of the Waters Edict, 419 E.S.10. In this edict, the Duke elevated Isabel to the station of Viscountess of Voron alongside her mother’s ascension to Duchess of Valwyck in her own right. Domestic Life 420 E.S. - 426 E.S. Isabel turned eighteen in 419 E.S., and her betrothal to Maric var Ruthern was fulfilled with a wedding in 423 E.S. entitled “A Promise Fulfilled”11. The union was celebrated in tandem with lakeside festivities such as fishing, a favorite of the Baruch bride, and a drunken brawl. It was not long before their union gave way to an heir, only two years after the couple announced the birth of their heir Valdemar Eirik12 under the cloak of a stormy night. It is said that as the babe let out his first wails of life, lightning struck and thunder cracked akin to a symphony and was seen as an omen by House Baruch. Lady Palatine & Duchess of Valwyck 426 E.S. - 441 E.S. In 426 E.S. King Karl III invited Isabel to be on his advisory council as Lady Palatine. The second of her kind, preceded by Marcella Barclay as the first Lady Palatine, Isabel gladly accepted and set out alongside King Karl to organize the rest of his advisory council. This came to fruition by a publication from the Crown of Haense in which Isabel was titled Lady Palatine alongside her husband who was raised to the station of Lord Speaker of the House and Matyas Baruch, Isabel’s cousin, as Lord Emissar. Within her first year as Lady Palatine, Isabel issued an Edict of Reform for the Aulic Council13. These were peaceful times for Haense, and so the King saw fit to remove the increasingly dormant Office of the Royal Justicar and replace it with the Komptroller of Settlement to aid in the organization of newly allocated citizens. Despite her great success with the pen, within the same year Isabel was captured by the Ferrymen from Reinmar and held for ransom. The Ferrymen issued a letter to the King of Haense in which they requested five thousand mina for the Lady Palatine’s freedom14 however the Tripartite Coalition managed to rescue the Palatine by way of raiding the Ferryman keep. Upon her return the Palatine published a missive15 in which she, alongside other announcements from her palatial office, extended her thanks to the Tripartite Coalition for their valiant efforts in rescuing her. The section read; “[...] I wish to extend my most heartfelt thanks to the Tripartite Coalition’s efforts. Were it not for your valiant soldiers, I would not be writing this right now. Because of you, my child and I are safe and unharmed. Because of you, my legacy continues. Thank you.” In 427 E.S., Isabel inherited the Duchy of Valwyck from her father following his abdication16. Two years into her time as Duchess, Isabel saw to the return of House Gant to prominence17 with Lachlan Baruch-Gant as the head of the minor Ayrikiv House. Much of Isabel’s work as Duchess was to promote the Ayrikiv culture, and with the rise of a secondary Household within the culture, it allowed for further representation across the realm. In this publication, Isabel entitled Lord Lachlan the Baron of Gant and began to see to the construction of a keep within the Ducal lands. House Gant went on to serve as Regents for House Baruch and the Duchy of Valwyck in their time of need and even gave way to a Lord Palatine by way of Lord Otto Baruch, the second Baron of Gant. Isabel furthered the strength of her House by allying herself with House Ruthern and House Romstun18 in an Accord to affirm House Romstun’s loyalty to House Baruch after having served as household guards for years prior. Arguably the largest portion of Isabel’s time as Lady Palatine was spent during the Successor’s War, named for its similarity to the Sinners’ War and its primary belligerents being the successors of those in the Sinners’ War, during which the Kingdom of Haense allied themselves with the Dwarven Grand King and Grand Duke of Balian alongside the efforts of the Ferryman and Silver Lubba mercenary bands. Isabel is mostly credited with her masterful diplomatic manoeuvring in which she managed to isolate the Kingdom of Oren and Krugmar with only minor allies at their side. Following a string of successful diplomatic pacts, creating a coalition called the Eastern Almaris Treaty Organization (E.A.T.O.)19 which gave the allied nations, and subsequently Haense, leverage over Oren. The Hoarde20 had knowingly harboured Azdrazis within their realm, and when E.A.T.O. was formed, swiftly sought the protection of the Orenian army, which they were granted. As the leader of a Canonist realm, Karl III saw it as his duty to hold his Heartlander counterparts accountable for their actions. In a missive written alongside Lady Palatine, Isabel Baruch, they address the Kingdom of Oren and Krugmar directly in which they offered the Orenian armies an out21, which was ignored. The war only lasted three years and resulted in a Haeseni victory which, after their victory in the Sinners’ War, continued to catalyse the fall of the once Holy Orenian Empire, now Kingdom of Oren. Following the Successors’ War Isabel’s focus shifted to domestic affairs. Chiefly, in 439 E.S., the Crown of Haense welcomed an unprecedented amount of immigrants due to the instability of the Heartlands and growing popularity of the Realm of Haense. Thus, the Crown published an Edict titled ‘The Weighing of the Scales Edict’22 which reinstated the High Justicar, a role Isabel and King Karl had previously removed from the Aulic Council. This came because of Isabel’s growing discomfort with shouldering the responsibilities of the Office of the Justicar amidst this time of Haeseni populace growth. The Lady Palatine continued her work in domestic affairs by working alongside Queen Amadea, her childhood friend, in revitalizing the Morrivi Palace library23. This created the role of Head Librarian, to which Elizaveta Bihar was appointed. This revitalization came following the death of Feodor May which left the Royal Library without anyone at the helm. RESIGNATION & LIFE AFTER PALATINE 441 E.S. and 444 E.S. A year after her work alongside Queen Amadea to revitalize the Palace Library, Isabel submitted her resignation in good faith, the office being occupied thereafter by Johanna Barclay. For three years, for the first time in fifteen years, Isabel held only the Duchy of Valwyck and her subsidiary titles. She continued quiet work at Valwyck, including the betrothal of her son24 and seeing to the construction of Lollybroch. In 444 E.S., Isabel abdicated the Duchy of Valwyck to her son, Valdemar25, and continued her work in Lollybroch until her death in 464 E.S.. ______________ 1 [The Royal Twins Children] 2 [Notice of Witchery], [Take back of Witchery] 3 [The Rosemoor Convention] 4 [The Karenina Accord] 5 [XXXV Session of the Royal Duma] 6 [The Karenina Law] 7 [Isabel Baruch for Alderwoman] 8 [A Letter to the Royal Duma] 9 [The XXXVIII Session of the Royal Duma] 10 [The Daughter of the Waters Edict] 11 [A Promise Fulfilled] 12 [The Birth of His Lordship, Valdemar Baruch] 13 [Edict of Reform] 14 [The Ferrymen Ransom, A message to Haense] 15 [The Palatial Report of 428 E.S.] 16 [Mother of the Waters Edict] 17 [To Break Stagnation] 18 [The Crestwatch Accord] 19 [E.A.T.O.] 20 The Orcish nation led by Krugmar. 21 [The Final Gambit] 22 [The Weighing of the Scales Edict] 23 [The Revitalization of the Morrivi Prikaz Library] 24 [The Unaccordant Espousal] 25 [A Writ of Abdication] Her Grace, the Duchess of Valwyck & Lady Palatine ISABEL ALEXANDRA BARUCH

NAF VE MIGHTINASK I MORTESKVAN ON THE MIGHTIEST OF MORTESKVAN Issued by the LADY IRENA VAS RUTHERN On the 21st day of Jula ag Piov of 557 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, LO TO YOU. As the days grow colder the ice thickens and winter takes a stronger hold over the Ailmere, festivities become something oft forgotten. Seldom do we venture out amidst such harsh winters as what is to come in the next few months. Thus, I thought it imperative to invite the denizens of the realm of Hanseti-Ruska to partake in a day of merriment upon the ice. To dance in the face of the impending winter. In truth, the day had been inspired by a trio of nomads who’d stumbled into the halls of Morteksvan. They were cold and wanting for provisions, and so I accepted them into the holding and offered food to them. Their display inspired me to craft an event where the spoils may be shared with those in need. Amidst discussion with my closest companions the idea quickly “SNOWBALLED” into a three part tournament where only the victor of all three sects would be named the MIGHTIEST OF MORTESKVAN. The day began as the sun reached its peak, guests arriving in large parties in humble caravans departed days prior from the capital. In the first of the three competitions the party was tasked with casting their rods into the frozen lake, a skill most often dominated by the common folk at Vidaus. I have watched them masterfully deceive the fish with promises of a hearty lunch only for the creatures to be bested and captured. I thought it might be a fine idea to test the Haeseni noblesse in just that. The first of the three competitions; I. His Serene Highness, the Grand Prince Karl, placed first with four fish. II. His Lordship, Tihomir Ivanovich, placed second with three fish. III. Myself, Irena vas Ruthern, placed third with two fish. IV. Her Ladyship, Olga Ivanovich, placed fourth with only one fish. IV. His Lordship, Bjorn Valkonen, placed fifth with no fish. The party was given two saints minutes to catch as many fish as they could. They were tasked with pulling the fish from the icy lake and slaying them as they emerged from the water. Anything but fish would not be counted, despite my catching of a rope and Lady Olga’s catching of a sodden book with pages unreadable! Following this, I ordered the fish to be placed in a barrel to be cooked and donated, and we departed from the lake to a field in Vasilia and I levelled in the snow. We gathered logs of fallen trees and challenged the party to throw them as far as they could across the field. The second of the three competitions; I. His Serene Highness, Prince Karl, placed first after throwing his log seventeen metres, then seventeen metres once more in a tiebreaker against Ser-Lady Heledd. II. Her Ladyship, Ser-Lady Heledd, placed second after throwing her log seventeen metres, then six metres in a tiebreaker against the Grand Prince. III. Her Ladyship, Olga Ivanovich, placed thirtd for throwing her log sixteen metres. IV. Firress Vasilia Barrow, placed fourth with her log landing after fourteen metres. V. His Lordship, Tihomir Ivanovich, placed fifth after throwing his log twelve metres. VI. His Lordship, Bjorn Valkonen, placed sixth, throwing his log eleven metres. VII. His Royal Highness, Sigmar Barbanov, placed seventh after his log landed only seven metres off. The Knight-Lady Heledd, a woman whose origins are unknown to me, firstly threw her log seventeen metres, tying with the Grand Prince. I decided the only way that this tie might be broken was to have them both throw logs once more, but at the same time, Prince Karl surprised the entire party by throwing his log the same exact distance, but Knight-Lady Heledd fell short, landing her in second place. By this time, Prince Karl was favoured to win all three competitions and much of the party was up-at-arms about his consistent victories. Lord Tihomir in particular could hardly contain his excitement to face the Prince in the ring of ice to prove his skill at last. And so, the party continued on to the ring of ice, a ring sanctioned by mounds of snow. Those wishing to participate were tasked with competing in a one-on-one, hand-to-hand fight atop the frozen lake! The third of the three competitions; I. Lord Tihomir faced off against Prince Sigmar, a battle in which he was bested. Thereafter, he called for a second chance, “Best two out of three”, a battle he also lost. Making Prince Sigmar the first victor of the tournament. II. Knight-Lady Heledd faced Firress Vasilia, and was victorious in the first battle. After the first fight's “Best two out of three” precedent, the two of them continued. In the second battle, the fight seemed to be fair at first, however amidst the combat Knight-Lady Heledd fell face-first into a bank of snow, rendering her unable to finish the round and allowing Vasilia the second victory. In the final round, they faced off against one another again and the fight took a sharp turn across the lake where Knight-Lady Heledd fell into a fishing pit! Again, she lost and nearly froze as a result. Making Firress Vasilia the second victor of the tournament. III. Third, Grand Prince Karl and Lord Bjorn Valkonan were called to face one another in combat. The Grand Prince came out victorious. The heat broke with the short-lived tradition of “Best two out of three”, the round ended quickly and continued on to the next round… IV. In the first of the two victor’s rounds, Brother faced off against Sister. Firress Vasilia and Prince Sigmar fought only once, with the Prince handily defeating his sister. Making Prince Sigmar the fourth victor of the tournament. V. In the fifth and final bout, our Princes faced off to claim title and glory. Both proved formidable, their battle remaining even throughout, with neither giving ground. It was only in the final moment of their bout that Sigmar gained the upper hand, driving our Grand Prince to the ground. In an act of elation for his cousin’s victory, good Prince Karl made to embrace Sigmar, but ended up tackling him through the ice! By the grace of GOD, both emerged from the frigid waters unscathed. With that, Prince Sigmar was declared the event's victor. DRUZ GJERNZ AG GRYNZ, Her Ladyship, Irena vas Ruthern

MIGHTINASK I MORTESKVAN MIGHTIEST OF MORTESKVAN “A Frozen Lake Georg” c. 554 E.S. Issued on the 9th day of Wzuvar and Byvca of 556 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, LO TO YOU. Even as the rivers and lake ice over, they remain stocked with fish and life bustling just beneath the hardened surface. Thus, along with a plethora of other games the ice will at long last be broken and the river’s spoils hunted. Days ago I was visited by a trio of travelers, hungry and in need of shelter. Nomadic peoples calling no particular place home, I was inspired by them. They lived, presumably, off the land and the good fortune of those they encountered on their journeys. I deem it fit to offer them, those people without homes, the fish caught in the competition as well as a place in the festivities. The Month of Wzuvar ag Byvca Wednesday, November 20th, 5pm EST WRESTLING & LOG THROWING Inspired by the tough men of Northern history, I think it is a fine idea to put the people of Hanseti-Ruska to a test of might. By putting them against one another in tournament-style wrestling matches, and appraising the strength of the Haeseni by way of log throwing, we will determine the ‘MIGHTIEST OF MORTESKVAN’. Only he who prevails in both competitions may claim the title for the mightiest will come second to none, and will be awarded with TWO HUNDRED MINAE! ICE FISHING To keep our bellies full for the evening, all prospective fishermen will gather at the River Lahy, which I’ve had carved by local icemen. There, they shall cast their lines into the hole, and fish for PRECISELY FIVE SAINT’S MINUTES, where the fish will be roasted and offered to those in need. ICE CARVING So that naught will go to waste, the ice carved from the lake will be repurposed so that those who are less martially inclined needn’t grow bored during the displays of might from earlier in the evening. I would like to share one of my favorite winter-time pastimes, ice carving! Guests are invited to carve the ice chunks to depict an image of their choice. These carvings will then be displayed around the castle and in the city of New Valdev. DRUZ GJERNZ AG GRYNZ, Her Ladyship, Irena vas Ruthern

Cooked in the Forest CALLIOPE ANALIESE ALSTION C. 1999 — The day began as any other, the sun rose over the eastern horizon of the Adrian Diaspora. With the sun rose the to-be bride on the day of her wedding. Her stomach turned with nerves as she lifted herself from the cushy bed in which she slept, met with the disapproving gaze of the Raev ladies that’d been assigned to aid her on this most important day. With a sigh, ANALIESE rose from her bed, her arms extended to accept a woolen housecoat from her ladies as she made for the neighboring room. She was met with her to-be husband, enjoying his breakfast with a few lords of the Adrian privy council. As the day wore on, the Princess’ mood only grew more erratic. She gripped the frame of her bedroom door as her wedding dress tightened around her waist. It was an elaborately designed dress, overseen by Analiese herself, fit with a gilded corset that seemed to push the life from her. Her ensemble was punctuated by a Raev headpiece braided into her blonde hair. All the while, Analiese seemed to be elsewhere, allowing the day she’d so meticulously planned to pass her by. . . — Her mind drifted, instead, to months prior when she’d made a trip to Haense. Amidst the chaos of her nephew’s succession Analiese decided to stake her own claim. Despite her weak claim, being the youngest child of the long-dead King John, it was a selfish attempt at a seat upon a throne she’d always thought she was fit for. For her entire life she watched as, first, her brother Charles inherited their father’s kingdom and squandered it, then, her nephew Godwin allowed the realm to continue its downward spiral, and finally she accompanied her nephew Markus in his attempts for the throne succeeding his brother. It was at this moment that she decided to make claims of her own. Only in part for her wishes to see her homeland prosper and to see her family united again, but more so to sit upon the throne - to call herself Queen. The trip was wrapped in the guise of diplomacy of state, though she opted to meet with her old companion, the Oracle of Maenvestiyaeo as opposed to his brother, the King. It was not an explicit desire, though Analiese hoped they might rekindle their friendship that she so cherished in her youth. Though her wishes were quickly dashed as figures descended upon the keep. Planted centrally in a frozen lake, the keep stood isolated from the outside world, an island with no other inhabitants but the small family Josef had created in her absence. The isle was not so easily overtaken, the beasts were sworn off though not without claiming something of their own. As the dust settled and the spirits were at bay, Analiese laid eyes on Josef, slumped against the wall with an arm crossed over his lap. His eyes flickered open and closed, and her stomach dropped. She’d hardly seen the battle, despite being one of only two adults present. It was a feeling she didn’t think she was capable of anymore, something she’d not felt in some time. The feeling stuck with her. . . — In a blink she’d been ushered from her quarters to the Adrian chapel. It was a dark place, deep within the belly of the earth. A mixture of dank stone drippings and incense overwhelmed her senses as she passed through the threshold. The air was cold and hummed distant echoes of dripping water into unseen pools. From across the dimly lit room, his face illuminated by flickering candlelight, Analiese spotted Mateusz at the side of the priest who would likely be overseeing their impending nuptials. She made her way over to him, standing at his side and gazing out over the subterranean chapel as guests began to slowly arrive. She imparted hushed words unto him, “I am nervous.” It was as if the words were fighting to spill from her lips from the moment she’d woken up that morning. “You’ll be fine.” He returned from over his shoulder, she could see his cheeks crease with a smile. It will be fine she repeated to herself, eyes scanning the congregation - mostly Adrians - as they continued to find their seats. With every opening of the door she could not help but imagine herself leaving through it. And so, she did. She departed from Mateusz’s side and began toward the door. As she departed the altar the room began to spin around her, the sounds of dripping stalactites and rushing brooks crescendoed until she reached the door at last, pushing it open and beginning up the steep staircase. She’d never felt more unlike herself when the sun met with her skin. She winced, the light in stark contrast to the dark church she’d emerged from. Her hand rose then, ripping the headdress from her hair, the braid coming undone in the process and her hair falling to her shoulders. She began to sweat, the layers of her dress beginning to feel as if they were suffocating her. She had become undone. Kasandra emerged from the chapel to console her, but it was to no avail. She was determined, departing for Valdev moments later with only a hastily written letter to her would-be husband in her wake. In the following days a stench sat in the air around the Haeseni fairgrounds, an Alstionite Princess was no longer. —

REZGULYS I RUTHER REVELRY OF RUTHER “The rolling hills near Mortestkvan.” c. 555 E.S. Issued on the 9th day of Wzuvar and Byvca of 555 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, LO TO YOU. I have been tasked by my father to learn more about the history of House Ruthern. In an attempt to lessen the distance between myself and my ancestors, I have decided to invite all to a night of RUTHERN-THEMED AMUSEMENT. For the sake of being dissimilar to history lessons, the night will consist of TWO games, being Lord of the Borrow, and charades with Haeseni figures, but that is not all! At the end of it all, there will be a lively show with food to eat and toys for purchase. Together we will have a night just as they did all those years ago in the spirit of House Ruthern. The Month of Gronna ag Droba Saturday, November 9th, 4pm EST LORD OF THE BARROW As I was looking through the archives of Morteskvan, I came across aged and tattered missives from the times of our however-great grandparents. In the piles, I read of the traditions of Ruthern, wedding celebrations gone awry, and in those texts, a most peculiar contest. Imagine this; A mound of dirt, where everyone fights for their place against their opponents, all whilst trying to keep one’s footing upon it. To this I told my father “What a better way to learn of our traditions than to practice it?” Thus, we shall hold this time-honored contest, and in my father’s generosity, he told me that the best of them all will be awarded with TWO HUNDRED MINAE! CHARADES During my reading, I found myself often distracted by the stories of Haense’s wide array of historical figures, like my grandfather, Duke Viktor of Vidaus, and the old Queen Viktoriya of Metterden. So many Rutherns had great responsibility in shaping Haense as we know it today. Thus, I think it a fine idea to incorporate these great figures into our night of games! Everyone will be assigned a figure from the past, or the present, and will be tasked with acting as they would while the rest of the players take turns guessing. ENTERTAINMENT & A MEAL In the theme of traditional proceedings, there will be a feast provided by the streltsy of Morteskvan. During the dinner, I enlisted the help of a jester to entertain the party, the renowned Jan Radovanic. In the great hall the guests will be greeted with stalls displaying ‘Goods of Ruther,’ which includes traditional toys, trinkets, a small amount of vouchers for outfits from the local Morteskvan tailor for auction, and requests to influence the jester’s antics. DRUZ GJERNZ AG GRYNZ, Her Ladyship, Irena vas Ruthern

SVINYA AG STANZ SWINE AND SONNETS “Beast of the Haeseni Countryside intermingle” c. 552 E.S. Issued on the 10th day of Joma ag Umund of 553 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, LO TO YOU, NOBLE POETS AND SWINEHERDERS. As one would expect, and as I am elated to announce, festivities are in order to celebrate the impending autumnal season! Among one of my favorite seasons, given its soft cold climate and beautifully radiant leaves, we would be fools to not celebrate this Haeseni fall. An up and coming sport in the Haeseni countryside, as displayed and hosted under the purview of Jan Radovanic, a hog rally will be among the few central features of these festivities. Thereafter, the losing pigs will be served up for the gathering to eat since the fattest and slowest pigs will make the best meals, and those slow enough to lose are deemed fat enough to eat! Amidst the feast and slow pig roasting, I would like to invite anyone daring enough to recite poetry, be it an original work or a favorite among those already written, before the audience. All are encouraged to participate in the competition as the winner will receive one hundred minae and bragging rights as a prize. The Month of Gronna ag Droba Saturday, November 2nd, 5pm EST HOG RALLY AND ROAST While I was walking through the fields of winter wheat along the banks of the Lahy, I found myself bewildered by the strangest noise I had ever heard, broken up by the occasional shout. I peaked out above a bush of prikaburren. . . And there I saw it! A humble farmboy, flailing about as he tried to wrangle the sweetest little hog, both squealing just as much as one another! In that moment I thought to myself, “What a fun game this would make!” And so, I have made it into a contest! I pleaded with the stablehands in Morteskvan to give me their smallest saddles, and with the chefs for a bundle of carrots. A swineherd from Nataliyino said we could ride some of his piggies, but we must hand them over to the butcher when we are done with them. All of them, but one. . . The winner! Whoever wins the race gets to keep their noble steed, and will get a pretty pink ribbon that says “#1 RIDER OF HOGS” on it. The rest of them will be roasted immediately after the race. POETRY RECITAL Since we must roast the pigs on the eve, I believe it would do us all some good to have some entertainment in the grounds, that we might forget the cute snouts and little eyes of our meals. I invite all the aspiring and established poets of the capital to regale us with their original works. My expertly-assembled panel of wise judges shall assign each piece a score from one to nine, and the crowd may collectively give a point of their own, should they wish. The greatest poet of the night shall walk away one-hundred minae richer, and by the demand of the butcher, have their choice of cut from the slowest, fattest pig. MARKETPLACE Just because the feasting has concluded does not mean the festivities must as well. There will be a marketplace in which the guests may purchase different items and services at their whim. My friend Vasilia Barrow, and her brother Aleksandr Barbanov, offer marble busts carved in the likeness of their buyer. Meanwhile, another stall will be equipped with children’s playthings, from wooden helmets, to dolls—perfect for the season! As well, Lady Sosina Amador will make an appearance, providing portraits like those of great Lords and Ladies from the finest coloured waxes Aevos has to offer in exchange for a few coins. The marketplace will go on until the crowd has dwindled so that everyone can have a chance to peruse the stalls and purchase their desired goods. DRUZ GJERNZ AG GRYNZ, Her Ladyship, Irena vas Ruthern

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.

Caesonia Tiber, the foreign mistress’s mother, can’t help but smile from beyond the grave.

“Crystals have nie power.” spat Marjoreya of Vidaus. “Let us publish more true rhetoric.” she grumbled, beginning to pen a letter to the Haeseni Koenas.

Issued by the COMITAL HOUSE COLBORN On the 7th day of Jula ag Piov 511 E.S. Two Houses, both ancient in their standing, shall now be bound after many years living alongside one another. In times long past the two houses were bound once previously with the County of Metterden bestowed upon the noble House Ruthern by Eirik Colborn in the early 1500s. Despite the ongoing war in the East we may never rest. Life shall continue as it did prior and we shall continue to prosper as we did prior and as we shall once this battle against our anathematized foes is won. All of this to say, following a period of courtship a union is born between Count Cassian Colborn of Malkovya and Lady Marjoreya vas Ruthern to bring together two ancient Haeseni Houses. These nuptials are to be brought to fruition on the 13th of Grona ag Droba in the Everardian Basilica. Per Scyfling tradition, originating from days long past when the ancient Scyfling peoples first converted to Canonism, the pair shall proceed from the Grand Basilica to Malkovya where the ‘Wedi Bridlop’ may take place. T I M E L I N E The Jorenic Union Performed by the Patriarch Josef at the Everardian Basilica the couple is to be wed per the Jorenic Rite. Lord Cassian and Lady Marjoreya shall be bound with sword and cloak to conclude their courtship and thus binding them until death. The Wedi Bridlop Directly following the nuptials the newly wedded Count and Countess will proceed from the Basilica to their, now shared, seat in the Haeseni countryside to jovially celebrate their recent union. There shall be a feast, made with the Scyfling peoples of old in mind, served to the guests and tribute may be paid to the pair if the guests so wish. Signed, The Right Honourable, Cassian Colborn, Count of Malkovya, Viscount of Venzia, Baron of Bethlenen, Lord of Vorenburg, the Protector of Scyflings Her Ladyship, Marjoreya of Vidaus

"See.." sounded Owynina, wife of a late Lord Sarkozic, "Of course he shall add this title to his signature. The fat man only grows fatter with greed." she advised her peers with raised brows.

Adela of High Peak perked a brow, she is truly torn, though in the end proclaims her support for the now single King. Announcing such to the monks who had grown tired of the fugitive Queen living within their quarters..