CopOwl

Anabel Colborn blinks at this news! "I mean ... I am sure that the pair are distantly related," She muses, "But marrying a leading figure in your own Cadet House-? Curious ... It has nejt been too long since House Gant reappeared in Hanseti-Ruska, either..."

The Countess of Malkovya, Anabel Elia Colborn, reads the call to action with grim eyes. "What he did to my dear, sweet brodirsdottir - Astrid - I can never forgive. She was but a child..." She frowns heavily, pausing in her writing for a moment to think deeply on the sickly state of her beloved cousin. The aging woman's brows furrow, "We shall have to think about the Kortreviches' offer..." She murmurs, preparing to jot out a note to distribute among the Colborn House.

FOR THE HEARTH OF THE HOMELAND. Issued by the ESROVA PRIKAZ COUNCIL On this 9th day of Msitza ag Dargund of 489 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, As the Royal Courts expand to cover all facets of modern Haeseni living and warm the hearth of the community, the Lauzya of the Esrova Council have organized for a series of tournaments to be held for the purposes of inviting martially-talented individuals to showcase their physical excellence and provide an afternoon of invigorating enjoyment for the remainder of the populace. A monetary prize of 50 mina shall be extended to the winners of each tournament ADULT TOURNAMENT One tournament between individuals aged 15 and over shall take place, with each pair taking part in a skill-based duel with wooden batons to even the odds. Those looking to take part are urged to contact Firr Konstantin Novikov by bird to be added to the bracket. Additionally, those in the audience shall be permitted to bet on the outcome of a particular duel; either between friends, or with the house. YOUTH TOURNAMENT To ensure that all play is fair, a separate youth tournament shall take place between adult matches for children under the age of 15. Alike the mature bracket, those wishing to take part should contact Firr Konstantin Novikov. DLUM VE EDLERVIK AG VE BIRODAL, 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, etcetera His Excellency, Fabian Otto d’Arkent-Kortrevich, Grand Lord of Hanseti-Ruska Firr Konstantin Novikov, Lauzya of the Esrova Prikaz Council The Right Honourable, Anabel Elia Colborn, Countess of Malkovya, Viscountess of Venzia, Baroness of Bethlenen, Lady of Vorenburg, the Protector of Scyflings, Keeper of the Book, and Secretary of the Esrova Courts

Anabel Elia Colborn lights a solemn candle that night, remembering with such excitement her friend Allessandra had spoken to her once she had discovered that she was with child. Anabel recalls sharing her aged wisdom with the younger woman, having given birth herself six times. "Rest, my friend..." She whispers, thinking with teary eyes of the innocent life lost and of the loss of hope that her friend had bore.

Published by the County of Malkovya ISSUED ON THE 11TH OF JULA AND PIOV, 484 E.S. The Council of Colborn is the body of leadership for the family and lands of the House of Colborn and it serves at the will of the Patriarch or Matriarch. The Council exists as a group of advisors for the Parriarch of House Colborn, and each member is bestowed with specific duties that aid in the administration of the Scyfling House’s lands and the management of the household. The Head of the Household also reserves the right to create new positions and destroy old ones upon the Council as required, allowing the Council of Colborn to fit their needs and the needs of the Scyfling lands. Held by Anabel Elia Colborn @CopOwl The Head of Household is a position held by the Parriarch and their chosen Consort. As leader of the family, and the official title holder of the Crown, the Head of Household oversees and protects the entirety of House Colborn, and the Scyflings within Haense. They are the forefront of the family and spearhead the Council of Colborn’s operations. Held by Olivier Percival Ashford de Savoie @Harald The Burgrave is an individual close to the Head of Household who acts as their second-in-command. The Burgrave can be a family member, however, they are often a trusted individual from outside the House of Colborn. Derived from an ancient practice, in which a free-roaming knight would be appointed to guard a castle, the Burgrave frequently represents the Head of Household in their absence, has a protective role over the Head’s family, and manages their estates. Held by Anastasia Parvana Colborn @Lmcfc The Grand Elder is often the oldest still-living individual within the House of Colborn, and they are frequently appointed by default through seniority rather than directly by the Head of the Household. The Grand Elder is tasked with educating the children of the House of Colborn - along with any other Scyfling descendants - on the family’s culture as they grow. Additionally, the Grand Elder’s permission and support must be sought prior to marriage alongside that of the Parriarch. Held by Anabel Elia Colborn @CopOwl The Keeper of the Book is an honourable position worthy of a scholarly and trustworthy Colborn. They are the caretaker and guardian of the House’s most precious artifact, The Book of House Colborn. The Book is filled with past accounts of generations of Colborns who came before, and one of the duties of the Keeper is to write their account of their experiences and the actions of their family. As an extension of this duty, it falls upon the Keeper to educate the children and wider Haeseni populace - in conjunction with the efforts of the Grand Elder - on the history and traditions of the Colborns of the past. They also often have greater insight into House Colborn family heirlooms and manage them. Currently held by Nikolai Adrian Cedrick Colborn @Dairsad While often a position held by someone of youthful spirit, the Heir of House Colborn - once selected by the Patriarch for their merit - has an important role in representing the House in lieu of the Head of Household. They are also a symbol of the hopeful future ahead of House Colborn. Often, the Heir is encouraged to engage deeply with Scyfling culture in preparation for their ascent to become the Head of the Household in the future. Currently held by Brendell Åsbjörn Aleksey Colborn @Nilyeet The Marshal of the Colborn Levy is the individual tasked with the recruitment and management of the standing Levy of House Colborn. The Marshal’s duties include having deeply ingrained knowledge about any local threats to Colborn lands, including dangerous wildlife or foreign borders, and the Marshal also designs any training exercises, patrol routes, guard routines, et cetera, throughout all House Colborn land or events. Currently held by Carolus Ivan Colborn @Seuss The Treasurer of House Colborn, as appointed by the Head of the Household, manages the cultivation of the family’s wealth. St. Carr Colborn, according to legend, was the richest man of his time. As such, House Colborn has consistently been incredibly proficient at business, making the role of the Treasurer paramount to the House’s successful operation. Currently held by no one. The Marrska is an important individual within the House of Colborn as they are tasked with breeding and managing the family’s horses. Historically, horses are a symbol of their House that represent its pride and prestige; making them incredibly valuable to House Colborn, and valuable in the marketplace since each Scyfling family is known to breed peak-condition horses to fit their needs. Therefore, the Marrska is always a trusted individual within the Council who also plays an important role in House Colborn’s economic prosperity by breeding horses to be sold. Currently held by Amelia Ceciliya Colborn @Smol The Head Librarian of House Colborn is tasked with the organisation and management of the many historical records and ancient tomes contained within the Colborn Library. For those with a literary heart, they may also write books of their own such as records of historical events, children’s storybooks, philosophy, et cetera. The Colborn Library is second only to the Palace Library in the extensiveness of its collection, making the position of Head Librarian a crucial one. Currently held by Astrid Rosiliya Colborn @MutatedPotato The Skaldr in Scyfen, or “poet”, is an individual within the Council of Colborns who is dedicated to the composition of poetry, folk stories, and music that spreads the myths and legends of Scyfling Culture. Often, a Skaldr will be dedicated to immortalising the legend of their liege; creating stories based on their life. Additionally, the Skaldr often accompanies their liege to the battlefield where they use their poetry and speeches to increase troop morale. The position of Skaldr is the highest honour that can be bestowed onto a Scyfling artist, and their influence on the legend of the Head of Household awards them with a place upon the Council. If any individuals felt drawn to certain positions upon the Council of Colborns, they are encouraged to approach Countess Anabel Elia Colborn. @CopOwl The Right Honourable, Anabel Elia Colborn, Countess of Malkovya, Viscountess of Venzia, Baroness of Bethlenen, Lady of Vorenburg, the Protector of Scyflings, Keeper of the Book, and Secretary of the Esrova Courts

The overworked Anabel Elia Colborn, newly appointed Court Secretary and recently-inherited Countess of Malkovya, wipes the sweat from her brow and takes the first good night's sleep she has enjoyed since her dearest cousin Amaya sent her the first draft of her Council scribblings all those months ago. "Skrali vor Gud," Whispers the Scyfling woman in thanks that this colossal project was finally complete for the eyes of the people to enjoy.

Published by the County of Malkovya ISSUED ON THE 8TH OF GRONNA AND DROBA, 483 E.S. O’ GUD, VOR HJELP I GYNE ERE, Due to changing circumstances within the Comital House of Colborn, Count Carolus Ivan Colborn has made the decision to step down as Patriarch of his House, soon after naming Lord Nikolai Adrian Cedrik Colborn as his successor in accordance with the Scyfling tradition of selecting an heir from among the pool of promising candidates rather than abiding by a system of primogeniture succession like the other Houses within Hanseti-Ruska. However, the heir to the role of Patriarch and House Colborn’s many other titles shall need training in order to be fully prepared for the role. Therefore, Count Carolus’s mother: Lady Anabel Elia Colborn, and Keeper of the fabled Book of House Colborn, shall be taking her son’s place as the Matriarch of the Comital House for the time being until Lord Nikolai is trained sufficiently enough to take on the mantle. Nikolai Adrian Cedrik Colborn shall henceforth be known as the Heir of House Colborn and its titles, and the future Protector of Scyflings. In the meantime, Anabel Elia Colborn shall be regarded as the Matriarch of House Colborn, Countess of Malkovya, Viscountess of Venzia, Baroness of Bethlenen, Lady of Vorenburg, and the new Protector of Scyflings. SKRALI VOR GUD, His Lordship, Carolus Ivan Colborn His Lordship, Nikolai Adrian Cedrik Colborn, Heir of House Colborn, Heir to the County of Malkovya, Viscounty of Venzia, Barony of Bethlenen, and Lordship of Vorenburg The Right Honourable, Anabel Elia Colborn, Countess of Malkovya, Viscountess of Venzia, Baroness of Bethlenen, Lady of Vorenburg, the Protector of Scyflings, Keeper of the Book, and Royal Scribe

The passed spirit of Adele Ludovar greets the man who was the closest she ever had to a brother. The pair of them aged down in the Seven Skies; the Lady Justiciar smiles with a youthful brightness unfamiliar to Borris - her gaze resembling that of something he hasn't seen for a long time. "Vy're here!" She cries, bounding towards him and throwing her arms around him, devoid of the wisdom that had filled her for a long time. The sight of her brother ignited in her the singular capacity to love. "Vy're finally here," Smiles she, grasping his cheeks between her two hands. "Now everyone has arrived. It has been so long, borsa." Adele grins, releasing his cheeks to grasp his hand as memories of her joyful youth flood back. "Everyone has missed vy, Bo-Bo - Amicia and papej will want to see vy." She speaks of her family, leading him off to go and find them, while utilising her long-standing childhood nickname for Borris; one that she knows irritates him so. As they begin to promenade, she looks towards his face as the holy light of the Seven Skies shines upon their heads. She lowers her voice, smiling all the while in a land without strife or hardship. "Welcome home, mea dear. Vy made it."

Karina Amicia Ludovar, newly promised to the Church, sets her green eyes upon the Debutante Reviews released from the Palace. "Oh, mea-!" Murmurs the young lady with thought. "That is very generous of Her Majesty," She mentions to herself, beginning to hurry through the streets in search of her cousin, Fredrich (@Raijen Stars). She smiles gratefully, being remarkably well-read on the Reviews of past Lifstala Seasons, and knowing well of their fierceness. The young soldier remembers how, in her younger years, pleased she would have been to have garnered such a response from Her Majesty and her associates themselves, nevertheless - her heart brims with pride and adulation that she was so well-received by the Royals. "Spasiba Godani, vy have blessed me this day."

Scyfling Culture: Wedding Traditions Published by the County of Malkovya ISSUED ON THE 6TH OF MSITZA AND DARGUND, 482 E.S. A STUDY ON THE HANSO-SCYFA TRADITIONS OF MARRIAGE Penned by the hand of Her Ladyship, Anabel Elia Colborn, Keeper of The Book "Gor vardifuli neji de fyrste tre dagi af weddi, utani de tredje yere" - Scyfling Proverb "Make precious not the first three days of marriage, but the third year" O’ GUD, VOR HJELP I GYNE ERE, With a new generation on the horizon, and surely many blossoming romances to come, it felt pertinent to dedicate a portion of my duty as the Keeper of the infamous Book of House Colborn and its ancient lords and edifices contained therein to record our culture’s ancient rites and traditions pertaining to Marriage. Additionally, with the ascent of our beloved Queen Amaya of Venzia in her marriage to King Aleksandr II, this publication is written in honour of Her Majesty to share her practices with her people. Certain traditions were mentioned in the previous Scyfling Culture publication, though these only scratch the surface of deep House Colborn and Scyfling History. While Ruskan traditions of marriage have developed along their own throughline, towards the adornment of expensive outfits and jewellry accompanied by lavish feasts for the women and jousting tournaments for the men, Scyfling traditions distinguish themselves through several key familial practices carried over from the times of our ancestors. CORTUAL AG BETROLIVNI - Courtship and Betrothals I. COURTSHIP TRADITIONS An artist’s depiction of blacksmith Annebelle in courtship with her soon-husband, Cassian Colborn. COURTSHIP RITUALS among the youth are, broadly, the same across cultures. It is not unusual for a particularly beautiful young lady to attract the attention of a dashing young man - or vice versa! Among Scyfling people, it is not taboo for a woman to approach the man she is interested in first, very unlike the Ruskan tradition of prospective bachelorettes waiting for suitors to entertain. Young Scyflings frequently become acquainted during church holidays, or at festivals, and at evening socials such as Tavern nights among the populace. Among some families, when a girl comes of marriageable age she begins to wear an empty sheath attached to her girdle. If a young suitor takes a liking to her, he places a ceremonial knife in the sheath to signal his interest, and she would keep the weapon if she likes him as well, and return it if she disapproves. THE RYFLEBAND EXCHANGE occurs when a Scyfling has decided to offer their heart to someone. They give their prospective partner the “Ryfleband”. These Ryflebandi are handed down the generations from mother to son, or father to daughter. Some Ryflebandi are family heirlooms, meaning that if the individual gifted the Ryfleband declines their partner’s gesture, then the Ryfleband will need to be returned. However, many Ryflebandi are necklaces, bracelets, or armlets lovingly crafted just for the purpose of gifting it to the Scyfling’s beloved. If a non-Scyfling is the chosen recipient of a Ryfleband, the Scyfling in question is encouraged to teach their partner how to craft one so that they may give one in exchange and allow the tradition to continue in the coming generations. Gems are often avoided in a Ryfleband, instead many Scyflings opt for beads, polished rocks, wood, and other natural ingredients that symbolise different things. Some people elect to collect and polish rocks from a location they have fond memories of; in this way they can entrust these precious sentiments to their chosen partner for them to keep them safe. Additionally, beads of gorgeous patterns are often added to a Ryfleband, and many individuals choose to adorn beads forming the symbols or colours associated with their family. For example, many young Colborns craft Ryflebandi using black and white or raven-eyed beads in honour of their House. A group of Scyfling children gathering plants and stones in anticipation of crafting their Ryflebandi. II. BETROTHAL PRACTICES A light-haired Scyfling couple posing for a portrait - likely at the request of their Elders. BETROTHAL PRACTICES in Scyfling society are a sequence of events which a couple seeking permission to get engaged must carry out. They do this to acquire the consent of their Elders and parents, as any individuals that marry against their parents’ wishes would be unable to expect a dowry to support the bride in her first years of marriage, or any inheritance in the future. Typically, in the year before marriage, a bride may elect to take time off from her work or other responsibilities. This is so that she may travel to visit her relatives and neighbours to collect any gifts they may have; often linen, wool, cloth, or money, and she spends the remainder of her time using these items to create clothing such as smocks, stockings, gloves, handkerchiefs, etc., that she will give to the groom, his parents, and other relatives (with her mother-in-law to receive the most) on the morning after their wedding. THE ELDER’S APPROVAL is a centrepiece to the Courtship process among Scyfling circles. Before one can become engaged or betrothed, both individuals must arrange a meeting with the Grand Elder of each Scyfling House. While often synonymous, both the Grand Elder and the Patriarch or Matriarch (or both) must give their consent and approval before any arrangements can be made between families. Often, the soon-betrothed will have dinner with the Grand Elder and Parriarch to discuss and gain their approval. Additionally, this can often be the opportunity for the parents of both young individuals to meet one another, get to know each other, and for both families to grow closer before agreeing to a permanent union. On the other hand, it can be a low-stakes occasion for any party involved to revoke their permission to wed, or sort out any inter-familial grievances in a positive environment. A young Scyfling man introducing his prospective bride to the Grand Elder. THE MARRSKA EXCHANGE is connected to the “Marrska”; the individual tasked with overseeing the breeding and care of horses in a Scyfling family. When members of two families have decided to get married and sought the permission of their respective Heads of Houses and Grand Elders, the Marrska Exchange takes place. In the past, horses were important symbols representing a House’s pride and prestige, and they were also incredibly valuable. It was a point of pride for each Scyfling family to keep and breed peak-condition horses to suit their needs. For example, a hunting family may breed swift horses, while a merchant family may prefer to keep more athletic breeds. The Marrska Exchange is an event in which two families about to be unified in marriage exchange a top-quality horse from each of their stables. To allow another family’s Marrska or delegate into one’s stables, and to offer them a horse is a clear sign of trust. Furthermore, the Marrska often - in the process - is given the opportunity to enter the other party’s dwelling, and makes a judgement about the other family’s suitability for their relative based on its cleanliness, the condition of any refreshments they are served, and how well they treat their horses. A Scyfling family’s Marrska preparing one of their horses to perform the Marrska exchange. FORLOVI AG WEDI - Engagement and Weddings III. ENGAGEMENT EVENTS An artist’s impression of Loviska Faolain-Colborn at her wedding to St. Carr Colborn. ENGAGEMENT CUSTOMS among Scyfling people are a very sacred practice, and there are several things that must be completed before and as a couple are wed in holy matrimony before Gud. In the past, a formal proposal of marriage would be preceded by a discreet inquiry by the gentleman suitor to ensure that he would not be met with rejection. The suitor, accompanied by an older spokesman - his father or other relative - venture to his chosen young lady’s home and they present the girl and her family with a bottle of spirits and some gifts. Often, these gifts are specific to her and her family; as they are intended to honour them, and act as an offering before the official proposal of marriage is given. If the girl’s family intend to reject the proposal, the gifts are returned at a later date. However, if their answer is favourable, the girl and her parents visit the suitor’s home in return, and the bride-to-be may even stay for a short period to impress her partner’s parents and help with the housework. THE BRIDAL CROWN BESTOWAL is an important event in a betrothed Scyfling woman’s life. Once a pair of young people have completed all of the necessary procedures to get engaged, it is the duty of the bride’s mother, grandmother, other female relatives, or the Grand Elder (if she is female) to gather the bride and the children of the family to listen to stories of her wedding and marriage. It is on this occasion that the elder female relative in question gifts the bride with her own bridal crown to wear on her wedding day. The bestowal is for this purpose, and for the elder relative to offer the bride with advice and lessons on how to maintain a happy and successful marriage. Scyfling children are highly encouraged to engage with familial tradition, and they attend an older female relative’s bridal crown bestowal to listen to their elder’s stories and learn more about their culture. Alternatively, if a female relative is unavailable for the bestowal, an older male relative or a male Grand Elder can take their place. Often, they tell stories about their own wedding and wife, and other memories of the past that could benefit the bride as she begins the next step of her life. Additionally, if the bride is marrying into a Scyfling family, she is still offered the honour of adorning the Elder’s bridal crown - or the family’s communal crown - and treated as though she were a daughter of the family as a sign of acceptance. A Scyfling Bride being bestowed with the Grand Elder’s Bridal Crown. THE SCYFHJELMER BESTOWAL, or Scyfling Helm Bestowal, is the male alternative to the Bridal Crown bestowal. The Grand Elder (if he is male), or another older male relative, retells stories from his youth of courtship, his marriage, and he shares advice to teach the groom how to treat his future wife. This is also a chance for the groom, if he is marrying into a Scyfling family, to get to know the other male members of the family and earn their trust and approval. On occasion, the men will go on a hunt together to grow closer. At the conclusion of the revelries, the groom is given a ceremonial family helmet for him to wear during the wedding. The Scyfhjelmer may only be removed, on the wedding day, by the bride once they have both taken their vows in order for the married couple to share a kiss. It is considered bad fortune for the bride to see her husband’s face before this moment if he chooses to wear the Scyfhjelmer. A Scyfling Groom donning his family’s Scyfhjelmer. IV. WEDDING EVENTS A painting of guests and the bridal party waiting outside a church for a Scyfling wedding to begin. WEDDING EVENTS are often a strictly structured and ritual affair, historically involving animals and a weeklong sequence of events. In the present, on her wedding day, the bride wears a family heirloom wedding dress and her bridesmaids don similar clothing. This is to help protect the bride by confusing any evil spirits that may want to ruin her wedding. Additionally, alike many other Scyfling traditions, Scyfling women have always had a degree more independence than other groups’, and it is for this reason that the bride typically walks herself down the aisle. Furthermore, it is well known that Scyfling families commonly bring and gift goats to their friends, allies, and family members when they get married. At any wedding, the ideal goat is of golden blonde colour as it is a symbol of wealth and good fortune for the newly married couple. THE WEDI BRIDLOP, or “The Tour of the Bride”, is a tradition originating in the early days of Scyfling conversion to Canonism. In these times, it was difficult to take written records and there were not proper avenues by which a bride and groom could be recognised as legally married. Naturally, the local authority (the King, Chieftain, etc.) may choose to recognise the union, however, this was uncommon. In order to publicly announce the couple’s new relation to one another, the recently married pair would travel around the area with a portion of their bridal party to showcase their married status and announce it to others. This practice is not necessary in current times, however the bride and groom may elect to continue a tradition in the spirit of the original custom. Often, they choose to do this by holding a race among the bridal party and their guests. All attendants race along a set course that leads them through the countryside to the site of the “Wedifest” - or Wedding Feast - where everyone celebrates the joyous occasion. To distinguish themselves from their guests, the bride and groom are each permitted to ride a horse, while all others must compete on foot. Additionally, as an extra motivator, he who arrives to the Wedifest last shall be required to pour everyone’s drinks for the evening. Frequently, the Wedifest is an opportunity for the friends and guests of the newlyweds to share stories about them among themselves and give any well wishes and gifts they may have brought. In addition, toasts are common at Scyfling weddings, and guests can often expect a toast from the father of the bride, and/or the patriarch of her House, the bride, the groom, the father of the groom, and/or the patriarch of his House. An old Scyfling Wedi Bridlop in the First Age. IN SUMMARY, wedding traditions among Scyflings are very complex and many of them have a deep history. A large proportion of this very ancient history has been left out of this publication in favour of finishing a relevant and timely study. In my free moments, I hope to do more research into these old ways that may not have as many records for the purposes of publishing a historical memoir in the future. My advice to young Scyfling brides - or those aspiring to become Scyfling through marriage - is to cross-reference the notes written here and those on bridal attire documented in the previous Scyfling Culture publication. Only by imbibing and immersing oneself in all aspects of culture can one develop a full and deep understanding. Moreover, I encourage any tentative or curious individuals to embrace Scyfling traditions if anything written herein calls to them. Additionally, I am always accepting letters from those with further interest in my area of expertise, or those who require further clarifications. SKRALI VOR GUD, Her Ladyship, Anabel Elia Colborn, Keeper of the Book, Royal Scribe

The long-dead Adele Ludovar peers down upon her student from the Seven Skies above; just as Arthur Stafyr materializes at her side. She glances to him, although her gaze remains trained on Haus. "He has done as well - better, even - than ea ever hoped for him." The Spectre of a Lady Justiciar muses on this momentarily, casting her mind back to the many hours that she worked tirelessly for her office and students. "A true successor," She glances to Arthur. "Just like vy." The Baroness's sister, Anabel Elia Colborn, travels to Elia's home with a gift basket in hand bearing many of her sibling's favourite Scyfling treats and the food of their youth - those that she remembers her sister having favoured when they were young. The Baronial servants show the Keeper of the Book to their Baroness's room and she knocks upon the door, waiting for a response. As she hears none, she leans her forehead against the wood, peering across to Thondor the falcon as she murmurs. "Elia ..." The older sister speaks, "I'm- Forlati mik, my systir.. I know how you loved him so." Whispers she in the privacy of this moment. "I've brought some things for you; I heard you weren't eating much." From that point, Anabel leans down and places her wicker basket on the floor outside before stepping away. "Take care, Elia ..." She murmurs, leaving the Stafyr home at that point with a melancholy look to one of her sister's lingering - and also mourning - children.

OOC Information: Ingame Name: CopeOwl Discord: CopOwl#9721 IC Information: Roleplay Name: Karina Amicia Ludovar Roleplay Race: Human - highlander Roleplay Age: 19 Characters Skillset: Sewing, writing, and fighting, willing to learn and practice medicine Nation/Guild Affiliation: Hanseti-Ruska

A past (and passed) Lady Justiciar smiles from the Seven Skies at such lovely news. "Ah, most wonderful..." Muses Adele Ludovar, "Soon the citizens of Haense shall know of the work of mea papej and mea contemporaries. As it should be." Meanwhile, a young ambitious Karina Ludovar brims with excitement at the prospect. "At last!!" The young woman beams, "At last ea shall unlock the secrets of those who came before -- the works of previous knights are rather comprehensive, however we all know that a kongzem canniet run on martial might alone. Finally ea'll be able to discover more about government as Lord Carolus asks of me." She breathes, pleased to be able to appease her mentor; the stern and rigidly detailed Count Colborn.

Anabel Elia Colborn, Keeper of the Book, smiles to herself at a job well done. "I may have reviewed the young Lady Amaya's work," Murmurs the Scribe in affirmation of her young cousin, "But it was her who put in the work and time to achieve this great feat. The Ancestors would be proud of all she has accomplished - and I am sure that the skills she has earned will treat her well in the years to come."

While scurrying fretfully after the Siege of Karosgrad through the busy streets of Savoy - her worried daughter in tow - in search of her son, Carolus, Anabel Colborn catches murmurings from the mourners of her wise cousin's demise. At this the Keeper of the Book stops in her tracks, causing young Karyna to bump into her mother's legs. "Did- did you say Baldrum Colborn?" She asks one of those attempting to collate a list of the fallen. Upon hearing their affirmation, Anabel's eyes fill with frightened tears and she takes off running - even more determined to find her eldest son by this news. Baldrum was indominable, she thinks, Nejthing could have taken him down - nejt unless- unless- The mother-daughter pair round a corner and their eyes lock onto the armoured form of Carolus Colborn surrounded by other Officers. Anabel releases a cry of relief at the sight, rushing with Karyna towards him where they begin discussing the siege. That evening, once the catching up with everyone was over, the Keeper of the Book returned to her mangy assigned tent - large enough to sleep and write in. She took a lamp and set it at her makeshift desk. She removed one of her notebooks - used for writing first drafts - and began the long process of recording Baldrum's life for his likely entry into the House Colborn list of Patron Ancestors.

The smallest girl, Karina Amicia Ludovar, is passed the missive that is circling its way around the square. The child barely has a moment to remember which month she is born in and glance her eyes to the correct section before the pages are ripped away by another eager soldier. Her small shaking hands clasp together as she caught only the phrase "great vulnerability" and she thinks anxiously on this; glancing up and watching the assembled crowd hurry around setting up last-minute cannons and arming themselves ... It would be a harrowing day.

Anabel Elia Colborn smiles brightly as the joyous news reaches her in Venzia - although of course she knew long ago. "A most sensible and well-anticipated match," Remarks the aging women to herself as she sits in the sunlight with her stitchwork; sewing a special something for the many bright young couples among her House and children.

The Littlest Ludovar, Karina Amicia, reads her mentor's work with wide curious eyes. She takes to studying its contents in detail, so as to defeat her future enemies in battle with the greatest ease !

Adele Emma is among the clamouring party there to greet Klara as she ascends. The once-tired form of an aged woman approaches her lifelong friend and embraces her with a bright smile. She whispers to Klara, echoing the sentiment being mirrored in each individual present to ease the pain of her passing; "Vy were always there for us all, dearest Klara." She smiles, "Spasiba. From us all to vy, we all love vy in our own ways. Some of us may have been bad at showing it, yam szam. Welcome." Adele thought back to the many times that Klara had supported her or others in her life, regarding her as truly selfless to the end - even having committed her to dying all alone so as to spare others the pain. When Klara had accepted Adele, even as barely the youngest child of but a baron - before becoming the Heir to House Ludovar - when Klara had comforted Adele in her insecurities, when Klara had dropped everything to take her and their friends away from Karosgrad for a reprieve after Adele's wedding was cancelled. Such generosity, even in the smallest things, made such a difference in their youth. As the group of passed spirits exchange remarks, pleasantries, and alcohol, Adele Emma smiles warmly and whispers to herself: "This is a the power of a kind heart; it brings people together."

Sister to the newly-minted Count and littlest Ludovar, Karina Amicia Ludovar sits endlessly in the lounge room outside her mother's bedroom awaiting news of her return. Nevertheless, the small girl smiles lightly for her brother ascending to take his rightful place, and she asks a young maid of a similar age to accompany her later that day to a plain of melted snow within the Otistadt tundras upon which flowers are growing; so that she may gift a bunch to her oldest brother.

The littlest Ludovar, Karina Amicia Ludovar, squeals when the missive meets her young eyes. "Oh mea Godan Oh mea Godan Oh mea Godan!!!" Unbeknownst to an onlooker, it is the tiny girl's dream to live the life of a Princess. She scurries off to make the necessary preparations for a night of revelry and dreams fulfilled.

Easily Adele, she had such a wide breadth of things going on with her and I definitely enjoyed some of my most fun RP on her so far. Which is natural, given that obviously my RP has been developing and getting better, and I've been getting to know more people who I get along with and we all have a fun time together. So it makes sense, of course, but she's definitely my favourite. And she had a really satisfying arc as well - from young innocent girl searching for her mom and dealing with self doubt to a confident leader working so hard for her family to an old woman just trying to fix things in her last years as all of her friends and family fall around her. She was super duper fun to play, even to her last day, despite all of the stress that I was under during her lifetime. Although I will always have a soft spot for my first Haense character; spunky independent Lynette. I think that LoTC has taught me a lot about myself - I have learnt several of my strengths and weaknesses - and it helped me understand more about running projects, groups of people, and about how to motivate myself to work consistently on long-running projects through demotivation or fatigue. All of these are valuable skills and life experience that I'll take with me into the future. It's difficult to say what my best experience really was as all of LoTC has its ups and downs. I really enjoyed some Conor or Julius events back on Lynette - I think one of my favourite memories is that one time Squire Lynette decked a Rimetroll all by her lonesome out of sheer will. She had assistance from allies, and she was messed up after, but I (and she) felt proud of myself for that. And it was a really awesome event that seemed sort of spur-of-the-moment. Hmmm, it's difficult to say if I would still join. At the time when I joined LoTC, I was very lonely and I had just begun getting more into fantasy roleplay. I had already been roleplaying for several years, but nothing too broad other than chat RP and I was determined to do some Minecraft Roleplay. I had owned Minecraft for years, after all, so how foolish of me it was to have not combined these two passions of mine. It was the beginning of another year inside of Covid. It had been roughly a year since the full outbreak and I was approaching one calendar year of online school. Some of my friends had gone back to face-to-face, but I hadn't. In summary, I was feeling rather disconnected and bored with my life. I'm in a very different mindset these days -- I have lots of real life friends, and I've been going to face-to-face school and living in the UK for 1.5 years now. So I don't necessarily need LoTC like I did 2 years ago. If I went back in time to my mindset and circumstances from 2 years ago, I imagine I would still join LoTC -- even knowing everything about it that I do nowadays. But I really needed that something to spice up my life and bring me connection 2 years ago that I don't need necessarily anymore. Now, being on LoTC is a choice - whether that be because of the fun moments, or the many friends that I love spending time with or working with. If given the opportunity to join now, I imagine I would bypass the option and find something else to scratch my RP itch. That was rather long, but it felt necessary to explain my choices. During my time on LoTC thus far, I've felt much improved -- partly by its influence, partly by changing circumstances. But I don't think I could ever erase my memories of this place because of the friends and work that I've made along the way -- all things to be proud of.

Oh, you've got me there ... ! So many to choose from, that's the problem. In general, it's the book that I'm reading when you ask me lmao. At the moment I'm reading the "Daughters of Eville" series by Chanda Hahn (twisting fairytales, basically) and that's been super good - right up my alley. I'm also a big fan of Terry Pratchett's Discworld - I've been making my way through the Guards series. To that end, I loved Good Omens (Pratchett and Neil Gaiman), so that's probably the best I can think of at the moment.

Hmmmmmm... I think I'll always have a soft spot for the many hours spent sat around - late into the night - with Gandhi, Raijen, Gus, you, etc. just chatting or doing some idle rp. Though I do love my girl squad - Pudding, Delta, Sarah, Yessie, Kls, Tea, etc etc. We've gotten up to some shenaniganery. And there's a sense of nostalgia for older times of knighthood customs and slaying great monstrous creations in events run by Conor, Juli, or Limo. Obviously I haven't experienced a map change, but those were all super fun. I think it's unfortunate to say that I worry a lot more now, hahaha. Running communities on LoTC as I've been doing for over a year now really takes it out of me though of course it's super rewarding as well. It's definitely taught me how to manage responsibility and what it means to work super hard on a project which I had no experience of before joining the server. It's also been really inspiring to me - reading certain forum works and emotes has helped me to actually refine some of my own essay-writing in real life for school and such (I had no clue wtf a ;semicolon; was for before this server). So there's definitely good to the bad, but I'd say that it's helped me to improve my leadership and management skills which has been helpful in real life when organising real projects and such. I might have read the War of the Worlds by H. G. Wells but I'm still not convinced on this whole extraterrestrial thing. They probably exist somewhere, but the chances of them being in our solar system or even our galaxy feels unlikely to me, so we'll probably never know. Would be cool though! I don't think I have the calm attitude to be an astronaut lmao, I'd look out a window, see the Earth moving increasingly far away and lose my sh*t right there and then.

It's been a long 2 years already - I've been on this server since March 7th 2021 which was a very different time. I was really excited when my application got accepted - I'd been waiting at least 5 days and was bored out of my mind. Two years on and a lot has happened - my longest running character just PKed, and I've done a lot since. And I may or may not have forgotten/missed my 1-year anniversary last year, heheh. *pulls up minecraft stats* Hahaha - I've taken more damage than I've dealt - 11396 < 12421 Walked 678km 1,500 times quit game Time played: 51.7 days .... 4 player kills ..... versus 8 deaths. But anyway - I wouldn't dream of answering questions on this day with an ounce of insincerity, let the AMA-ing commence!