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Marjoreya peruses the missive with narrowed eyes, a familiar scowl upon her countenance as the words weigh one-by-one on her mind. Her nostrils flare, tossing the parchment, which she had taken from the notice board upon which it was posted - believing it had a better place with herself, into the flames of the hearth. It was no doubt her grandmother's death would be public knowledge no matter her actions, whether she burned the announcement or not, though she believed - in some childlike way - perhaps it would be undone if she burned the announcement. Though, in her heart of hearts, she knew this to be a lie; her grandmother was gone.

In secret, a girl with raven trusses peruses the document as she so often does, delighted to see her favorite Haeseni Ledi - Sonya - in the spotlight.

"Some man comes to insult our King," spat Marjoreya vas Ruthern. "Then cries when he is served justice for his mockery." her features creased with contempt as she perused the document. "Do not put your head within the jaws of a lion and not expect it to bite." she intoned, eyes risen toward her father. [@ContestedSnow]

EPOCHS OF HAESENI COUTURE ‘Ve Edlervik’ a painting by Fenika vas Ruthern Issued by Lady Marjoreya of Vidaus In celebration of Ehr Sigmunda 500 On this 17th day of Wzuvar ag Byvca of 500 E.S. Research revised by atavistic Haeseni scholars & extant human chroniclers. Research conducted over a period of four months. Contents I. Introduction II. The Early Kingdom III. Ottonian Era IV. Ruskan Renaissance V. Contemporary Rus VI. Amadean Couture VII. Valdevic Era VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, Upon this momentous occasion, the five hundredth year (500 E.S.) of the Sigismundic calendar - and conjunctionally the five hundredth anniversary of the ascension of the Prophet Sigismund. In tandem with the many years of Haeseni history and the continuation of Royal succession, new eras of Haense implore new trends of fashion - not only out of experimentation but also from necessity. And thus, new silhouettes are crafted bringing about a new era of style for the people of Hanseti-Ruska. There lacks a proper written timeline of Haeseni fashion since the founding of the Duchy of Haense. However, many of the years prior to the elevation of the Dukes of Haense to Kings of Hanseti-Ruska are scarcely written of in such a manner and thus this compendium begins in the 1500s*, nearly fifty years following the beginning of the Sigismund calendar. *For ease of reading, all dates within this document are in both the Imperial format and an approximate Sigismundic format. Vydrian Era The Dukes of Haense Early to late 1500s | ~50 E.S. — In the times of St. Karl Barbanov, Haense was not yet a Kingdom, only a Duchy built up from the foundations of its Waldenic predecessor. For most of the earlier years of the Duchy of Haense, the realm was engulfed in war - namely the third Human-Dwarven war. A struggle between the Haenseni and the Dwarves for control of the realms mining and lumber left the Haenseni in economic strife though unlike the later ‘Great Fatigue’ the Haeseni people were easily excitable by their Duke and looked with elation unto the future of the Duchy. St. Karl was a fierce military leader and influenced his people as to be expected given how he is often portrayed in literature and soon after the Human-Dwarven war’s end, he began a conquest of pagans that had found a home deep in the hinterlands. This furthered the Canonist image of the Duchy of Haense, causing many canonistic motifs to appear throughout not only literature and art of the time but also within the pious fashions of the earliest Haeseni peoples. Even after the pagan conquest, war and invasions continued throughout the regency led by Haenseni Lord Tarcell Othaman with the Dukes’ War shortly after. During this era of constant war and strife, and later occupation of the Ducal lands of Haense by House Kovachev, the Haeseni people struggled to find their own image and culture aside from their contentious relationship with many of their neighbors. — Men and women alike of this era often donned dark and muted colors alongside their armor, however, these times were far less accepting of women in positions in war and they were often relented to lives awaiting their husband’s return. Still, most commonly in the time of Regent Tarcell Othaman, women donned a unique style of iron corset beneath their woolen frocks - likely due to the onslaught of constant invasions during the early years of the Dukes’ War. Alongside their iron corsets and woolen frocks, women adorned themselves with furs - albeit a far more humble depiction from what’s more commonly seen in modern times. The Early Kingdom First Kings of Haense, Court of Petyr I, Andrik II, Marius I, Stefan Late 1500s to mid 1600s | ~200 E.S. — Following their elevation to Kings of Hanseti-Ruska, and likely a massive influx of citizens within their city, the people of Haense set out to establish a culture of their own - juxtaposed from the southern imperials. The fashion of this era is derived from the staunchly isolationist culture of Haense from their imperial liege lords, and the frigid winters experienced in their northern settlement. The people of this era were rigid and firm in their somewhat unique style so much so that outsiders often remained that way, even in high-ranking consort stations. In this time, Queen Reza of Turov, was outcast from her husband’s court due to her friendship with Empress Julia of Oren and her contribution to the stylings of the era is minimal. Oftentimes the court of this era was dubbed a ‘Nest of Crows’ as their Ruskan culture was impenetrable by the outside empire. — The fashion is characterized as humble and simplistic. Most of the adornments, such as furs, hats, and coats, were strictly purposeful and even royalty donned less intricate ensembles. Popular styles for women of this era include long flowing frocks, oft lined with fur, clasped with belts that were likely made of leather or gold depending on its wearer’s status. It was common for noble ladies and common folk all the same to layer their frocks with woolen outer coats, most often dyed to be darker colors such as blue, red, or brown. Men of the early Kingdom of Haense dressed just as simply to their female counterparts, oftentimes seen in armor adorned with some sort of fur - likely hunted in the years prior. At public proceedings, both formal and informal, men remained clad in their armor that was oftentimes made of darkened steel; however in the comfort of their own homes they would exchange their sheathing for woolen tunics similar to the fairer sex. Ottonian Era Otto I, Otto II, Otto III, Karl II, Franz II, Sigmar II Mid to late 1600s | ~230 E.S. — Despite their isolationist tendencies, the people of Haense were eventually influenced by their imperial liege lords. In a time where the Kings of Haense were wed to foreign royals, commonly of neighboring vassals to the vast Orenian Empire, the Kingdom’s culture saw much of its traditions and day-to-day life influenced by Oren whether they liked it or not. Most notably during the time of Eleanor of Lotharingia, raised to Queen consort from her union to St. Otto II of Haense, the fashion saw lots of change as she was a catalyst for the Imperial influence. Much of her own influence likely came from her sisters, Empress Claude of Oren and Queen Marie of Courland, known for their unions of monarchs across the empire in rapid succession and thus, imperial fashion was brought into Haense quicker than ever before. Following the largely upsetting union of King Stefan I to Elizabeth of Courland only a few generations prior, historians believed the reign of St. Otto and his queen, Eleanor, to be similar; however it was vastly different given Eleanor’s familial differences to the loathed Queen Elizabeth. On her coronation alongside St. Otto, she was crowned in tandem with her husband - being the first Queen to ever be crowned with the King - donning a wide-set gown of Banardian descent. While this was a bit too extravagant for the humble Haenseni people, the style managed to influence them some. Later the Queen went on to boast many imperially inspired gowns furthering the infusion of Orenian fashions into the Kingdom of Haense. This era saw influence from both the Empire of Man, and the pertinax, but also from the Haute-Lotharingen style of Heartlander fashion. — This era’s stylings are identifiable through their corseted silhouettes for women. While fur was still somewhat popular, the people of this era found their warmth in layers and woolen underdresses beneath extravagant overcoats. Oftentimes overtop of their underdresses, women of this era would wear intricately decorated ‘foreparts’ which were triangular pieces of fabric placed where the skirt opened in the front. However, this tradition was mostly reserved for royalty and high nobility as these were difficult pieces of clothing to craft and wear. Similar to the women of the country, Haeseni men began to shift their style to closer align with their imperial brothers. Juxtaposed from their forefathers, the men of the Ottonian Era donned more formal vestments in exchange for armor. However, the vestments of Haeseni men still greatly differed from imperial fashion, unlike the women of this time period. Where men of the Empire traded in their trousers for breeches worn typically over hose, Haensemen continued to wear long trousers accompanied with flowing coats. Ruskan Renaissance Late 1600s to late 1700s | ~300 E.S. — This era, being the second longest of Haeseni fashion to date, saw the Kingdom’s departure from Imperial fashion and shift toward a distinctive style of their own. Following a long string of queens born to staunchly imperial houses, and even some of those who had previously rebelled and were married only by war-ending treaties, came a slew of Haeseni-born queens with only two being from foreign nations. However, unlike their predecessors, Grand Princess Valera of Adria and Queen Milena of Adria were of raevir houses, whose culture was somewhat similar to what Ruskan culture would later become. During what many historians note as ‘The Great Fatigue’ Haeseni national pride sank, the Haeseni Royal Army saw lower numbers than it had for years and what people believed to be a hopeless situation caused a drought in Haeseni nationalism. This was a relatively short era when it comes to fashion of the Haeseni people, seeing as consecutive reigns of queens Milena, Maya, Viktoriya, and Isabel - each compounding on one another - the Haeseni image returned to, and even surpassed, what it once was. In modern times we view this as foreshadowing for later independence gained under the reign of King Josef I and his wife Isabel of Valwyck. Following this fashion changed very little as the people of New Reza remembered their time in the empire and were reluctant to change their dress for some time, though it would be a slow burn from this point on to the culturally unique Haense we know today. The name of this era is derived from the later Queen Annika’s interest in the ancient folk-kingdom of Ruska. — At the earlier period of this time we see the humble notes of Haense return as much of the nation’s funds were sent into the war. The aforementioned ‘Great Fatigue’ had a very negative effect on national pride and fashion alike as the presumed hopelessness of the Haeseni situation caused a lull in the previously staunch isolationist qualities of the Haeseni people. Throughout the war, and until the mid 1700s, this era continued the exchange of armor for more formal attire in men and a high waistline in women. However following the Haeseni independence in the late 1700s, a rise in uniquely Haeseni fashion began. Still different from what fashion we know today, and even from the fashion of the Contemporary Rus era, groundwork was laid to accommodate a smooth transition between the once imperial vassal, to the culturally unique Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. Contemporary Rus The 1800s | ~400 E.S. — Following the Kingdom’s separation from their imperial liege lords there was a short period where the people of New Reza were reluctant to dress differently than they had prior and their fashions reflected heavily their - now simply neighbors - Orenian counterparts. This short period of time saw high ‘empire-style’ waistlines accompanied by minor utilizations of fur as the climate of New Reza was far warmer than the later Karosgrad or Valdev. However, with the union of Queen Annika and King Heinrik a new force had taken hold of the courts and the new queen’s personal interest in the ancient Kingdom of Ruska - much like the future Queen Amadea’s personal heritage - influenced the court greatly. This new trend, and later staple of Haeseni fashion, spread quickly across the Kingdom as Annika was well liked and her influence held in high regard. Different from her successor, Annika’s Contemporary Rus style was far more ornamental and boasted dark colors throughout the nobility and common folk alike. Alongside this, colour played a very important role in fashion due to a notable decree by Queen Annika detailing the specific meanings the colours had throughout the court, though this decree was often taken in extreme directions by the fiercely competitive courtiers of the Nikirala Court. Throughout this era the court remained a cold place, many decrees were issued under the purview of the Mistress of the Wardrobe at the time that often stifled creativity among those who had little influence on these decrees as many simply abided by the rules put in place by the Queen’s Council. Following Annika was the revered Queen Emma, often monikered ‘the Golden’ due to the extreme success she saw during her reign alongside her husband Sigismund III. Most notably during Queen Emma’s reign she established the Karanina Accord which saw little change in fashion, of course, but was a pivotal moment in Haense history as it sparked a rise in women in positions previously held only by men. In tandem, this era saw a rise in influence from the council as a whole within the Kingdom and the rise of the Grand Lady as a seat upon the Aulic Council. Emma also established the wildly popular Lifstala season which transcended the Haeseni court and even went on to influence the Imperial Augustine Court with their ‘Social Season’. This was vital to Haense’s rise as an international power as it marked their, now, strong sense of national identity and was a pivotal moment since the independence of Haense from Oren as it further established the crow nation as its own entity and a force to be reckoned with. — Men of this period often donned furs far more than their predecessors in New Reza. The coats remained elongated though the colors of the lower class began to dull as the aforementioned decrees grew in frequency. Opposite the men with their elongated coats and furs-a-plenty, sashes became wildly popular throughout the Nikirala Court as well as - due to their impending ‘golden era’ and the rise of Haeseni national pride we saw an opulence in the fashion of ladies at court akin to the Empire. In the earliest stages of the Contemporary Rus, during the time of Queen Annika and Princess Royal Katarina, ladies donned corseted bodices with structured fabric skirts, though the sleeves differentiated it from the Ottonian predecessors. The latter portion of this period of Haeseni fashion history was dominated by Emma’s influence as she was widely beloved and her style and demeanor was often sought after among noble ladies of the Kingdom. During this time, juxtaposed from the styles of Queen Annika’s court, the ladies donned light colors and floral motifs saw a peak across men’s and women’s fashions. Across both distinct halves of this era fashion of the men remained mostly uniform as armor saw a rise once more since the Kingdom’s separation from the Empire and in tandem with the widespread national pride. Amadean Era | Hanso-Rhenyari Fashion Late 1800s to early 1900s | ~450 E.S. — Despite the greatly influential Queen Emma, and her Ruskan fashion, the Haeseni people later began to follow their new queen’s fashions as she - upon her union to King Karl III - began to take power within the court. Amadea of Susa, as her name suggests, was of House Basrid; though she was originally of House d’Arkent as daughter to Baron Wilhelm Carrington, she was later adopted by her mother’s family. Although she was wed in a time where tensions between the Empire and the Kingdom of Haense were on the rise, her childhood under the care of both Queen Emma and Empress Anastasia made it so she was viewed as a worldly and well-learned woman as opposed to an outlander as imperial queens were before her. While her blood carried with it only a small fraction of Basridi influence, her features juxtaposed those of her father and claimed strongly to her mother’s house and culture, Rhenyari. As she was well-learned in matters of her matrilineal culture, the Rhenyari way of life found a home within the Haeseni court easily. Following her nuptials to, at the time Grand Prince, Karl Sigmar, Amadea’s influence at court was great alongside her mother-by-law, Emma of Jerovitz. Following the death of King Sigismund III, and in tandem with Karl’s ascension to King of Haense, many courtiers began to emulate the style of Queen Amadea. However, unlike the widely known Rhenyari fashions, Hanso-Rhenyari fashion was unique to only the northern region the dual kingdom was nestled within. It is important to note that this was less of a cultural shift and should be viewed more so as a trend for the courtiers of the palace. — The Amadean Era consisted of silhouettes that boasted long flowing skirts, oftentimes layered over a tighter fitted woolen underlay. To withstand the cold climate of Karosgrad, the ladies of Haense often donned fur-lined coats over their silk, linen, or bamboo-derived fabric gowns. A popular trend of the Rhenyari culture was drapery; oftentimes women of this era would layer themselves with many of the aforementioned fabrics in true Hanso-Rhenyar fashion. Unlike the previously mentioned eras, the Amadean era saw little change with the stylings of the lords alongside their ladies. The men of this era often wore just as they had before, with elongated coats and fur pelts still dominating the styles of many Haensmen, noble and common alike. Valdevic Era Present Day — Since the reign of Sigismund III and Emma of Jerovitz the Kingdom of Haense had only increased in power, becoming now a true world power since the fall of the Empire of Oren. Throughout many years since their separation from the Empire, Haense has had a fierce battle with their Horenic counterparts - a power struggle of sorts - in population, military power, and even national pride. Even though Haense had likely grown far stronger even before Oren’s fall, it was the Harvest Confederation and the continuous instability in the south that acted as a catalyst to secure Haense as a world dominating power. This series of events, in conjunction with various movements and workings within the court, Haense’s culture and might flourished. Thereafter with the establishment of the Hyspian Viceroy during the reign of King Georg I, only adding to the wide array of cultures boasted within the modern Kingdom of Haense, and supported by the reign of Queen Amadea just prior to her son’s tenure as King of Haense, the new city of Valdev sports a wide variety of cultures influencing its constantly evolving fashion. However, in more recent times, with the reign of King Aleksandr II and Queen Amaya of Venzia, the city of Valdev has shifted somewhat closer to its Ruskan roots, though in a different way than prior. Juxtaposed from the strict courts of queens Annika, Emma, and Amadea, Haense’s current Queen, Amaya of Venzia, heartens a far more lax environment in the Crown City of Valdev. With influences of her own familial ties, the Scyfling House Colborn, Amaya brought about a new era for the Haeseni people. — Silhouettes of this era are identifiable by the influences of Queen Amaya’s Scyfling Bunad. Characterized by a corset-like bodice, usually worn over a white tunic of sorts, accompanied by an ornately embroidered skirt. While this style has remained somewhat unique to House Colborn, with the wild popularity of the Scyfling Queen, small intricacies of the house’s fashion have found their way into the wider Haeseni fashion. Still, more so now as the winters - and even summers - have become harsher than ever before, fur is a popular addition to any ensemble be it formal or informal. The male fashion of this age, similar to their female counterparts, is very relaxed with still very militant influences. Armor plates are commonly seen in combination with flowing coats. IV JOVEO MAAN, HER LADYSHIP, Marjoreya Vasiliya vas Ruthern, Scholar of the Esrova Prikaz HER EXCELLENCY, Roslin Annastas Baruch, Lady Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska, Duchess of Valwyck, Countess of Ayr, Viscountess of Voron, Baroness of Gant, Laval and Riveryn, Lady of Jorenstadt, Guardian of the Hanseti Coast HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Amaya of Venzia, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia, Karosgrad, and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald, and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, et cetera.

The Haeseni Countryside For only so long can soup kitchens and herbal remedies protect the people of Hanseti-Ruska from this frigid fate brought unto us by evils unknown. It is in this time, more than ever before, that we must be resilient and look to our Lord above for answers. It is certain that this storm was not brought about through the all-powerful will of God, but instead by a far darker force. Thus, we must seek to return ourselves closer to His image. So, in conjunction with the Royal Esrova Court, a fast shall be issued for the following months. Often did the Exalted, to whom we ought to look to for guidance in all areas of life, fast and live in solitude - commonly prior to a great revelation. As we grow ever closer to our five hundredth year anniversary since Sigismund’s revelation, it is ever important that we return to humility and strip away the fineries and luxuries so common in Haeseni life today. I ask you, good people of Valdev, do not forget from where you came for then you shall lose sight of where you are going. – T I M E T A B L E The fast of Sigismund’s revelation shall take place between the months of [[OCTOBER 13 - OCTOBER 17]], though there stands still two major events that will happen in the midst of the four month long fast. Throughout the fast all are encouraged to participate, children aged sixteen and younger are advised to break their fast only at night as the conditions of the blizzard may be too severe for children alongside the fast. – Mass [October 13] | 3pm EST Hosted by Patriarch Josef, the citizens of Valdev are called to convene on this the first day of our most holy fast in the Everardian Basilica so that we may begin this fast where it ought to end - in prayer alongside our brothers and sisters in faith. A Pilgrimage [October 16] | 4pm EST Led by Priestess Vivienne of the West, the people of Valdev shall set off from the front gates of the city on an humble pilgrimage. As it is the midst of a fast, all that shall be available to those who choose to partake in this pilgrimage is warmed bone broth and wine. – Coinciding with the beginning of the 500the anniversary of Sigismund’s revelation festivities, the conclusion of this fast shall be the feast of St. Juliya where, finally, the people of Haense may break their fasts holier and closer to God than they were at its beginning. Her Reverence, Mother Vivienne of the West Her Royal Majesty, AMAYA OF VENZIA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia 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, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, et cetera

"This is not what he would have wanted." spoke Adela with pursed lips, her eyes cast skyward as she perused the document no longer.

Amidst her escape, Adela spared a glance toward her lady-in-wait, her first lady-in-wait. Her heart filled with sadness, a fear washing over her that'd she'd not see the woman that'd become among her closest confidants again.

The Queen-Mother and her ladies atop the Hand of Horen Please do not metagame any of this information. Adela sat adjacent to her son, a man rounding the table to ensure the Queen did not flee. Her features laced with worry as she exchanged glances around the room - its crowd seemingly ever-growing as Veletzian and Aaunic men alike hastily made their way in… ‘I am sorry Adela.’ A voice stuck in the Queen-Mother’s ears, one of her ally. At that her own son announced, ‘We hereby arrest thee, for conspiring against the crown, Adela Alstion.’ These words stung, her eyes befalling her son’s face - gazing upon him as if he were an infant still. Within her mind, now a racing and almost unintelligible place, she thought fondly of the times they’d shared as she knew this to be among the last times she’d lay eyes upon her son. – Thrown into this life of palatial politics and international diplomacy via an advantageous match between herself and Crown Prince Henry, Adela did not excel in her new station. However, her strengths lay with a different station she later took up - the station of her motherhood to her pair of children. She prided herself as a doting and accepting mother, encouraging her children’s faults and guiding them to her believed greatness. Adela thought fondly of her children, even her son, holding them higher in regard than any other to have walked their mortal plane. However, she’d never expected this. She’d never expected to be stabbed in the back - the knife’s wielder being her own son no less. Still, she loved him - offering him naught but a complacent smile and as she followed the men to her chambers. Chambers she had thought, previously, to be far too large but now felt like no more than a small cell fit only for a common criminal. Accompanying her was only her lady-in-wait, who - by God’s grace - managed to deliver a singular letter from the Queen-Mother’s confines; a letter to her daughter. Little did she know, she had supporters within the court still.. — Gossip and hearsay had murmured to the ear of Olive Victoire, and like wind upon the sea, the girl naturally found herself in presence of her cousin, King Edmund II. “S'il vous plaît” Olive begged, “Let me attend to my aunt.” To her dismay, she was brutally declined. “You may attend to me now,” claimed the King, though tears flooded the eyes of the young girl, and she fell upon her knees. The only family that Olive knew was Ser Gawyn and her aunt, Adela; the forsaken Queen Mother. This. This moment had crippled Olive Victoire. She felt no motherly love, nor parental guidance. Her mind was engulfed in a flame of melancholy, and it would burn her to the ground. However, Olive of High Peak arose from her ashes, and found that she was alone once more. No King, no guard, but silence and the watchful eye of God. She found herself sitting upon a stool, her eyes wandering over the vast landscape of the balcony. There was an idea. Olive Victoire picked up her stool, moving it to the balcony and standing upon it. Her body leaned over toward the ground, and a fall was sure to be expected. Instead, Olive decided there was a purpose for her, and there she went. . . Gathering stools. With each stool was a new found courage, but she still shook with fear. As she climbed the rungs of the stool, one placed atop another, she found herself ascending higher and higher. Almost as high as the Seven Skies, but if she fell she’d find another way to the afterlife. The stools teetered and lurched as she continued to stack them. Eventually, the girl clambered onto the highest peak of the Hand of Horen. “Auntie.” Olive Victoire of High Peak saw her kin, her blood, Adela of High Peak. Olive’s sword unfurled from her tabard, and she approached the woman. She didn’t intend to commit murder this day, but the tip of her sword fell into the soil as she knelt before Adela. The subtle indication to show servitude to her kin called down upon her mind and sword. Eventually, the wind hurled and grabbed at their garb as they began their descent. Each stool wavered and yearned to follow the wind’s guide, but Olive ensured a safe journey. Both of them reached the stairs, and eventually they whisked quietly through the dark halls, only to see the moon illuminate upon the Silver Sea. There the sea stood, its waves curling and beckoning for the two to join the waters. This was a journey unknown, but a journey they had resolved. The Silver Sea tickled the sand, and made soft murmurs as if to say that freedom was here at last. — Finally the Queen Mother had found herself free from her confines. Surely they were to be after her, surely when they’d heard of her freedom she’d be painted as an evil and conniving villain who’d spent her days scheming from atop her ivory tower. Though she knew she was none of those, she was simply the mother to a boy. In another life, one she much preferred, she lived a common life with her pair of children and her husband. A life of eternal freedom.

Adela was left with much to ponder, walking aimlessly about the - now emptied - halls of the Hand of Horen whilst her mind raced.

Adela of High Peak regretfully pens a note to the young Velenic lady as she can not attend.

In the midst of a fierce military campaign on the shores of Ba'as, Owynina hears words of her father-by-law's missive, albeit fleeting. "I ought to write Franz.." she murmured, her visage contorted with worry. "Though, I suppose I never truly felt at home there." she resolved, hastily continuing about her business.

Adela, sister of the to-be Princess of Valfleur, procured the invitation while a knowing grin came across her lips.

Royal Recognition of the P R I N C E O F B E A U F O R T Issued and Confirmed in the name of the King in the year 1940 Penned by HM the Queen Mother As confirmed by the Regency Council We have desired not to forget the service you did to Our father and master Henry and the honour which you bring to your House and this Our kingdom of Aaun as master of Our knights; and also through the loyalty and kindly nature you have represented Us abroad; and for all the services you have done and continue to do unto Our commonweal; and you have also been elevated by Our Estates General as Lord-Captain of Our Union Army; but We have desired to honour you and the legal heirs of your body by mark of Our Grace; Know ye that We, of Our Special Grace, and Royal Right by this the great seal of the Realm given to Us by special commission of King James, and with good counsel, We have recognized you Our trusty kin Gawyn Tiber the P R I N C E O F B E A U F O R T. And for Us, Our heirs and successors, do give and grant unto him the dignity and honour of the P R I N C E O F B E A U F O R T; investing him with the said Principality by girding him with a Sword, having his name and certain items of heraldry etched upon its forte, and putting a Coronet on his head, and giving into his hand a Black Rod, to have and to hold the said dignity of his Principality unto him and his heirs. And We further will by these Presents that for Us, Our heirs and successors, that for him and his heirs the said dignity shall hold no precedence for any and all further estates dignities and honours given to him and his heirs by Our pleasure. In Witness whereof We have caused these Our Letters to be made Patent Witness Ourself at the Hand of Horen the eleventh of Sun’s Smile in the third year of Our Reign. ✿ BY THE ORDER OF OUR REGENCY, Her Royal Majesty, Adela of High Peak Queen Mother of Aaun, Viscountess of Valence His Highness, Heinrich II von Alstreim Prince of Merryweather and the Rhine, Landgrave of Alstreim, Baron of Corwinsburg, Lord of Blackwater His Eminence, Arnaud of the Petra Cardinal Albarosa Her Excellency, Melina Dieuxmont de Rosius Lady Treasurer His Lordship, Louis Owyn Haverlock Count of Talentine ‘STRENGTH THROUGH UNITY’ TANDEM TRIUMPHANS

Adela, the Queen Mother, gazed down from the spire of Horen at the Ivory City's prepossessed skyline. Her countenance brandished a grin, one of pride, for the city that sprawled out below and the people who lived within it.

Wrought from the shores of Pronce, Caesonia Anaïs of Helane brings her craft to the ivory city of Whitespire. Following her union to Sir Gawyn Tiber, and given the Horenic house’s roots in the princedom of Beaufort, the atelier has been entitled The Beaufort Atelier befittingly. The atelier is set to have its grand opening the month of Tobias’ Bounty and will begin formally accepting clients thereafter. The grand opening event will be fit with drinks and music within the bazaar’s square as well as a display of the seamstress’ prior works. In anticipation for the grand opening, a few dresses shall be placed for sale at a set price. Make your wishes known, by letter, to the seamstress regarding the dresses for sale; Each of the aforementioned dresses boast a ticket price of five hundred mina. If interested please contact Caesonia Tiber by letter. The sale of the dresses will be by a first come, first serve nature so act with haste.

Adela of High Peak, the Queen Mother, looked upon her son. Her expression was placid as she inclined her head toward him. "Your Majesty." she fell into a curtsey before the boy, only age four. "I shall live to serve you, my King." a smile managed its way onto her lips, leaning forth then to press a kiss against the boy's forehead.

The Viscountess of Valence knelt, eyes level with her son's. She brushed his shoulders as a smile pressed on her lips.

To the subjects of the Aaunic Crown, As a part of His Majesty’s nameday celebrations, we jovially invite all subjects of Aaun and allies to our realm to partake in a grand tournament in honor of His Majesty, King James of Aaun. On this, the first day, of our august King’s sixty-seventh nameday celebrations, there shall be three events held in his honor. T I M E T A B L E THE JOHANNIAN JOUST The first of this three part tournament and festival shall be a traditional Johannian joust where participants will be put against one another in a bracket style where the victor will be entitled the Champion of Whitespire, and a prize of two hundred marks. HORSEBACK ARCHERY Following the Johannian Joust, on the very same jousting grounds, there shall be yet another tournament of horseback archery. Where the participants ride on horseback, with bows in hand, launching the arrow at an adjacent hay bale target. The victor of this game shall be given the same prize as the former, two hundred marks, alongside a gilded bow to display their proficiency in the sport of archery. A RACE IN THE SILVER SEA The third of the three games shall be a boat race, where a course shall be erected in the silver sea that rests on the beautiful coast of Aaun. Participants are charged with guiding a canoe around the stony base of the Hand of Horen. Similar to the prior two events the victor of the boat race shall be henceforth known, until another victor arises, as the Warden of the Silver Sea and shall be gifted the same prize of two hundred marks alongside such an entitlement. Her Royal Highness, Adela Alstion, The Viscountess of Valence and Dowager Lady of Alba

C A E L O D E L E N D A E S T Issued and confirmed by Ser Gawyn Tiber in the name of the Crown, 1936 A painting depicting an Aaunic Legionnaire battling a Caelian raider Written below is a recollection of the night’s events by a Whitespirian citizen; Amidst the golden hues of a setting sun, a rhythmic beat could be heard. The drumming sound of armorclad men stepping into the confines of the marble city was apparent to all. Under the cover of dusk they had hoped to be concealed by the shadows the towering city cast, however, were soon confronted following their recent royal ban. Within the streets, the men and women of Whitespire sought safety within the confines behind the iron bars that separate the Hand of Horen from the greater City of Whitespire. However, with the leadership of Ser Gawyn Tiber, the industrious citizens rallied alongside one another to defend their fair city from the band of Caelians. They were offered passage, and warned of the severity of their ban, but such attempts were not fruitful. After a fierce combat, where the Whitespire citizens outnumbered the Caelian rally six to three, the Caelians were defeated and brought to trial. Quickly, were the surviving Caelians brought to trial before The Grandmaster and the Viscountess of Valence. Where, despite the uproar from the people, the youngest of the three was spared and punished with the loss of his hand alongside confession held by the Bishop Buron and a life under the watchful eye of God. By the night’s end, two of their men were hanged, and the youngest of the three promised to the church with only a hand missing as penance for his crimes. A DECREE REGARDING THE CAELIANS Confirmed by the Viscountess of Valence In this, the year of our Lord, 1936, the Caelians have been brought to justice in a Court of Law. Following a failed attempt of a raid, in hopes to harm merchant brothers, Boon and Bane, they were captured and stood trial before the Grandmaster and dowager Crown Princess. Verdict was delivered sentencing the elder two to hang, and the youngest to lose a hand and be conscripted to the church as he confessed his guilt for his crimes. Despite this, the ban is still in effect and Caelians seen within our ivory city are to be brought to justice for their crimes. SIGNED, Her Royal Highness, Adela of High Peak Viscountess of Valence, Dowager Lady of Alba Sir Gawyn of House Tiber

On Margravine Philippa von Reuss Issued by the Margraviate of Velen, 1936 It is with a heavy heart that the Margravial Household of Reuss announces the death of our Margravine Philippa Ilena. After years of illness, and a regency led by her beloved husband Margrave consort Leufroy of Lewes, she has finally passed from this realm to the next. With beginnings in the humble County of Revedin, born to Margravine Guinivere von Reuss and her husband, Norland noble, Harald Ragnarsson, Philippa always held within her a deep love for the country from which she came. The Aschenwald, and the people they hosted, were close within our Margravine’s heart and kept at the forefront of her mind in all decisions she made. The Last Will of HL, the Margravine of Velen Philippa Ilena von Reuss On the matter of my titles and holdings, I bequeath these, the Margraviate of Velen, the Counties of Cantal and Revedin, the Baronies of Mons Cantal and the Aschenwald, and my electorate seat on the Waldenic diet unto my son S I E G M U N D O T T O. To my children, Alongside my titles and holdings, to my son, Siegmund, I leave the Crown of Revedin and Orksbane, relics of House von Reuss. To my eldest daughter, Adelheid, I leave my collection of jewels, with the exception of the Crown of Revedin that shall be retrofitted to better suit the new Margrave. These shall await you upon your return to Whitespire. To my daughter, Katharina, I leave my tomes. I advise you seek out the sage advice of Mother Anna should you come to a crossroads in your life. To my husband, Within my bedside table, there is a note. I leave you naught of this world. ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY, Philippa Ilena von Reuss HIS LORDSHIP, Siegmund Otto von Reuss, Margrave of Velen, Count of Cantal and Revedin, Baron of Mons Velena and the Aschenwald, Lord Commander of the Velenic Guard

The Lady Alba's eyes trained on a lone rider entering through the gates of Whitespire, her lips curled upward as he neared her, unknowing. In a moment, her future was stripped away. Her children were fatherless, the husk of a woman that was left was in no place to be a shining example for the babes they had brought into this world together. 'We were supposed to do this together' she thought to herself as she silently followed, eyes trained on the corpse of her husband. For months after Adela awoke with nightmares of the Prince's corpse, she hoped to awake at his flank but the bed remained empty... the palatial suite had a certain coldness to it now, one that she could not shake.

The, now dowagered, Lady of Alba stood alongside the Prince of Merryweather as he delivered the news unto a group of unsuspecting courtiers. Within her, not only was her husband lost, but the future they prepared for together. Now all that was left of it were the two children they sired, the elder of the pair swaddled within her arms..

With overwhelming gratitude and an exuberant spirit, we bow in humble appreciation to the Almighty for granting us the opportunity to celebrate. Our hearts overflow with joy as we acknowledge the countless blessings bestowed upon us by the Lord above. In this moment of pure jubilation, we lift our voices high, offering thanks beyond measure for a world brimming with abundance. From fertile lands that yield bountiful harvests to oceans teeming with life. To the subjects of the Aaunic crown, The Lady Alba invites all Aaunic citizens to partake in a month-long festival in the city of Whitespire where the festival-goers may immerse themselves in revelry unlike any other on this continent. Music shall reverberate through the streets, enticing all who hear it to join in the jovial jollification. All shall be allowed, within the law, and all are free to be whomever they wish. While an event such as this holds no true requirements, the Lady of Alba suggests guests don bright and multicolored outfits to match the outrageous decor. TIMETABLE I. Phantasmagoric Ball | 2pm EST A ball unlike any other seen within Whitespire. Guests are encouraged to don extravagant costumes and even masks if they see it fit - what’s up is down and what’s down is up, and guests are encouraged to act as such. The rich can swap places with the poor. The ball shall be equipped with music and food for guests to enjoy as they like. II. The Day of Fools | 5pm EST Upon the conclusion of the grand ball, a jubilant procession will ensue, wherein all merrymakers are graciously invited to spill into the enchanting thoroughfares of Whitespire. A sumptuous array of culinary delights shall be made available for all to partake and enjoy. Also present shall be a delightful assemblage of diverse and varied vendors, each a purveyor of their own unique and coveted wares. HRH Adela of High Peak The Lady of Alba, Crown Princess of Aaun HE Aleksandra of Vidaus The Lady Chamberlain, Princess consort of Merryweather HL Isabella of Varoche

The Lady of Alba lays eyes upon her daughter c.1935 In the midst of a busy day, the Lady of Alba, alongside Reverend Mother Anna Lucilla, was ushered hastily to her residence within the Hand of Horen. For nearly eight months prior the Crown Princess had been burdened with pregnancy and now that could finally see an end. After what seemed like weeks, night had turned to day, and many of the King’s advisors and the princess’ own ladies-in-wait had been called to witness the birth of what was sure to be a second son to secure the line of succession, however, much to the disappointment of the High Aaunic Council, a girl was brought forth. Still, the Lord and Lady Alba seemed content with the babe, more so the latter of the two. By Her Royal Highness Adela of High Peak, Lady of Alba; To all to whom these declarations shall be conveyed, we extend our most esteemed greetings. The munificence of The Good Lord, in His boundless benevolence, has deigned to bless us with the advent of a Princess, to the immense delight of the Royal Household. With hearts aglow with hope and fervor, we embrace the auspicious unfolding of welcoming our second-born progeny into the realm of existence. By these letters, therefore, We advertise and proclaim that our daughter shall be given the name MARY CECILIA (@neii) and that we pray unto Almighty God for her safekeeping, good health, prosperity, and preservation of the Princess, who shall one day be the Princess Royal of Aaun. Given under our Seal at the Hand of Horen, Witnessed by Us and Holy Mother Anna of Alstion on the 14th day of Godfrey’s Triumph, 1935. WITH GREAT ELATION, Her Royal Highness, Adela of High Peak, the Lady of Alba; Crown Princess consort of Aaun Confirmed by; Mother Anna of Alstion, The Abbess of St. Jude

when r we going on our year long trip around europe?