HIGH_FIRE

"Disappointing that the Albans would behave in such an idiotic manner..." Caliope mused from her home in the March of Kazan, reading the missive the King of her home put out. She shook her head, certain that such relations were rocky, though she was never truly trustworthy of the Albans.

“Her first time achieved an incredible amount, more than many other Grand Maers… I know she can do the same again!” Caliope spoke, prideful as she saw that her wife had released such a missive

ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF JEROVITZ c. 572 E.S. Since the beginning of human agricultural practices, livestock has become a prominent part of farming and ensuring that the population is well fed and sustained. Cattle are one of the most common variants of livestock and are widely beloved for the milk, meat and leather that they provide for a nation’s continued sustenance. The Korvian culture has a special connection to these animals and have spent centuries perfecting the rearing of these animals, granting the name of Pasák to those who take such a vocation. An integral part of the agricultural economy, it is important to understand these animals. Every region and biome has their own species and breed of cattle, best suited to their needs and climate and terrain surrounding them. From the fields of Jerovitz and Kazan to the mountainous region of Kvasz, the bovine slowly adapt and change to suit their environment so that they can weather nature and provide what is needed. Such information shall be elucidated within this informative piece, from the Koravian Grey to the Kvasz Mountain-Bred. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀I⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ No family has a greater appreciation for Cattle than House Kortrevich, a family who believe themselves represented by the bull in tandem with their history of breeding cattle. Amongst their herds, live the ever illustrious Koravian Grey, an incredibly special breed that are owned and taken care of by only the Kotrevich and their workers. It is this breed that is the envy of all cattle breeders of Aevos due to its often sought after qualities, however this is the product of generations of selective breeding between the cattle to ensure that the Koravian Grey is as special as it is. Upon gazing at a Koravian Grey, one would immediately notice the signature dark grey tone that its fur would hold, the cattle shall never be seen with any other colour of fur for it is the culmination of the selective breeding. A fully grown Koravian Grey would be sized around 5 foot and six inches to six foot and two inches, weighing a maximum weight of 1300kg, making it by far one of the largest cattle known to descendant-kind. The build is visibly almost pure muscle, as both the Bulls and Cows will be put to work in the fields of Jerovitz so that they may be able to build a physique of pure strength unseen by all breeders. It is due to this physique that they are able to weather the harsh climate of Haense, the muscle being able to ensure that it is able to have enough insulation to survive the cold. The horns of the bulls often grow both large and long, directed straight up towards the skies above, making it a fearsome opponent when it must protect its herd, often being employed in the deadly art of Koravian Bullfighting. Of course to the Pasák that maintain the bovine of Jerovitz, it is important to ensure that the cattle also produce the highest quality products, and the centuries of selective breeding have ensured that they may fulfil this demand. The hide of the animal is such that the Genuine leather, the second lowest register of leather, of the Koravian Grey, is closer to that of the Full Grain leather, the highest register of leather, of the average cow. The leather is sleek, opulent and has incredible strength in longevity, fetching it an incredibly high price at the markets. The cows of the Koravian Grey herds will produce a milk unlike any other, full and creamy, any other milk paling in comparison. While it may be used in conjecture with other drinks such as tea, coffee or the beloved Haeseni drink of Hot Chocolate, it is more common to drink this milk as it is due to the raw goodness of its natural taste. Finally, the meat that comes from a Koravian Grey is said to be of the highest quality, exquisitely tender and almost perfectly marbled every time. To feast upon such meat would be considered an extravagant sign of wealth as similarly to the milk and leather produce, it has been perfected over several generations of selective breeding. It must be noted that the many years of this practice and perfecting the species for its produce has led to an incredible degradation in the Koravian Grey’s ability to repopulate. A very small number of these cows, estimated to be around seven hundred, live today and the sheer majority are owned by the House of Kortrevich. It can take years to foster a new generation of these cattle, and sometimes the cows may die before producing any offspring, forcing the supply and demand for this breed to be outrageously unbalanced. Perhaps it is due to this lack of supply for the demand, that a Koravian Grey is treated as a gift that only the most cherished and respected friend of House Kortrevich may come to own. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀II⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ The standard stock of the Haeseni cow herder, the Markevian cattle are a simple breed of cow believed to be the very first breed of cow seen within fields of the Haeseni landscape. Making up well over half of the cattle population, these cows are not widely sought after, but bred for their ability to consistently repopulate and survive the severe weather that they will certainly face. Well regarded for its ability to consistently meet the demands of the population, while it is no means special, it is respected and beloved for the way it sustains the people in their day to day lives. Due to its varied and non-selective heritage, the Markevian Cattle come in varied shades, from brown to white, from black to grey, seeing a herd of these bovine will always present with a variety of colours to gaze upon. The full size of these cattle similarly varies greatly with a height of anywhere between four and six feet tall and a weight of 360 to 1000 kilograms, greatly depending on the food fed to it by the herder and the conditions that it grows within. The muscle content of the cattle is usually just below average, not being a particularly strong cattle when left to graze upon the fields, however some bulls may be put to work by their owner resulting in a stronger variant of the Markevian. The horns of a Markevian Bull shall only grow forward and not far at that, creating a very small horn of which has little to no use in defence of a herd. This is speculated to occur simply due to the fact that they cattle are in such large herds and so close to the Capital of Nau Valdev, that they are rarely at threat of predators if ever, giving little use to the horns. Due to its large population and continued ability to sustain its numbers and even grow it, the Markevian Cattle is able to meet the demand for the bovine product industry without much stress on the part of its herders. For example, if one was to purchase a leather pouch in the markets of Nau Valdev, it is almost certain to be stamped with the mark of a Markevian Cattle Herder. The leather of this breed is often considered quite weak in comparison to many others, often resulting in the Split Leather, the lowest section of the hide, being disregarded for it does not possess the durability needed to maintain an item. The upper sections of hide are used to craft innumerable items, however these are all considered cost effective versions of such and are often purchased by the peasantry. The milk of the cattle is nutritious and more importantly long lasting, in order to ensure that the seemingly endless supply of such does not spoil before it is sold at the markets. Most often found in any drink that may include milk in the Tipsy Tarchar or even in the homes of all Haeseni, from the commoner rungs to that of the Royals due to its easy access. Commonly used in stews, the beef of the Markevian Cattle is considered palatable but not at all impressive due to its fatty content with little to no marbling. Almost never eaten by itself due to the perception of it as an uninspiring ingredient that is better served within a gravy to mask where it falls short. The history of this cattle is rather simple, upon arrival in Aevos, to meet a new demand for bovine products, farmers sought to breed their cows together quickly and amass a large population of an average cattle. Swiftly was this demand met by these new bulls and cows, named Markevian Cattle for their heritage, descending prominently from the cattle of the Markevian era. While it is not seen as a gift nor a prized cattle, this breed is widely respected for its continued dedication as a bovine that is more than able to to sustain an entire population of a nation. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀III⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ The Scyfling Highlander is one of the most ancient and storied cattle breeds, dating back to the earliest days of the cultures prominence and maintained for the centuries following their arrival within the Kingdom of Haense. A symbol of great wealth and a much beloved creature much more akin to a familial pet, this cattle species is treasured prominently for how it looks and behaves above its produce. It is difficult to ascertain just how much the Scyflings care for this bovine breed without immersing yourself within the culture itself, however we shall make a strive to elucidate this information. The first and most obvious thing to note about the Scyfling Highlander is it’s either brown or red fur of which is both shaggy and floccose. The bovine in its visual nature could appear more akin to a large dog that one keeps for personal companionship, which is reflected within the treatment of the cattle by its owners. These cows are by no means as big as many others, reaching a shorter height of five feet for the largest of the bulls, who may also measure around 800 kilograms at their peak size. However, the majority of that mass would be muscle, as the Scyfling Highlander is commonly seen to be marched up and down mountains in a traditional migrational system that sees them return closer to the home for winter. The bovines have large and rather exquisite horns that jut outwards to the side of the cattle’s head before tending upwards to the sky, an advantage believed to have come about due to them being left upon the mountains without a constant watcher to protect them. This cattle is by no means considered for its produce, due to the fact it is given a status as more of a familial pet than a form of income, however it may and often is used for produce. Due to cultural importance as well as the low population of the cattle, this may often sell well merely for the short supply of such. Boasting a slightly above average leather, the full grain leather from the upper most regions of the hide, is highly priced and well sought after, akin to that. However the lower levels of the hide are often weaker due to the strain of the heavy and often matted fur that the Scyfling Highlanders possess that comes in a double coat unlike many others. Sometimes, though this fur may be put to use by a farmer, crafting various textiles or brushes from the strands of hair for its strong, oily nature. In addition, the cows of the herds produce a milk that is considered very much average, providing a simple and neutral taste that many use within cooking and baking for its lack of interference with taste. It is rare to see this drunk alone and even more rare for a Scyfling to be seen drinking it as they have an overwhelming preference for the taste of goat’s milk. Lastly, the meat produced by a Scyfling Highlander is commonly an incredibly lean meat due to the fact the smaller cow will usually have a large muscle mass unlike many others, eliminating much of the fatty content one would expect. As such, it is also a very tender and delicate meat that is often eaten at a Scyfling festival. Culturally, an incredibly valuable cattle, it is also a cattle with cows that tend to be very awkward with their repopulation. Only in the frigid, dark nights of winter will the Scyfling Highlander give birth to their calves, often resulting in a lack of aid from farmers and also opening them up for attack from predators who take the weakness for granted. This matter makes the Scyfling Highlander a smaller and more rare population, which has led to the amount of cows a person has being related to both status and wealth. Finally, a tradition during the migrations from mountain to field in autumn and back in spring is considered culturally important. Flowers and braids will be placed into the hair of the animal while the farmers herd them up or down the mountain. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀IV⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ In the montane grasslands of the Koppány Steppe lives a bovine quite unlike the others, the Koppány Yak. A fine creature that is closely related to the cattle of Haense but alas not entirely the same, not fitting the criteria deemed by scholars to declare it of the cattle family. Prominently used for its innate ability to graze at such a rate that one would not need to maintain the steppe of which the horses live on, these Yak are a friendly and beloved creature that spends much of its lifetime consuming the grass on which it loves. It is due to its close relation to the cattle that the Yak is included within this missive. This breed of Yak most often has a white and black coat, with the white being the dominant colour of such. Their fur is similar to that of the Scyfling Highlander, long and shaggy causing it to look incredibly fluffy, a perfect coating for the rough winds and cold temperature for the Koppány Steppe that they reside on. Even when compared to their closest visible cattle counterpart, the Koppány Yak are typically short, measuring around four and a half foot for the biggest bovine amongst them. However, these creatures are far more stocky and sturdy, appearing wider than the cattle and weighing around 1000 kg, mostly gained from its heavy eating of the grass that it maintains for the steppe. These creatures are incredibly muscular beings, often built up due to their tendency to be used to pull freight or carts across vast areas of land when their owners need such. They have medium length horns that will curve upwards from the side of their head until they are pointing straight upwards, a fine defence against any predator after them. The most prominent job and aspect of the Koppány Yak is its seeming ability to graze on more grass than any other livestock, an incredibly important thing to ensure that the landscape of the Steppe remains healthy. The Yak also are used heavily for pulling ploughs along due to their extremely muscular physique and ruggedness in the face of the severe winds and weather of the northern steppe. The leather of the Yak is typically just below average, good and often usable for any item you wish to craft, however it is by no means incredibly durable or sleek in its grain or formation. In truth it is the furcoat of the Koppány Yak that people seek after so much, for the undercoat of this magnificent being is akin to the finest cashmere wool from the finest goats on the continent. Considered comforting and warm, it has been used for the rugs of both noble and Royal keeps as well the clothing of Kings and their Queens, Koppány Yak fur shall always fetch an incredibly high price. Producing a surprisingly more sweet milk, the bovine will often be viewed as one of the better producers of milk, the dairy created having a rich texture and robust taste. The two main uses for this dairy is as cheese and should they be treated and dried properly, then as chews for dogs whose owners wish to reward their good behaviour. Much like the milk, the meat of a Yak is slightly sweet, tasting akin to beef aside from this, though it is often considered firmer in texture. Not often consumed by the average person, it is considered more of a local delicacy by those who live in Koppány or a surrounding area for its rarity. Within the borders of the Dual Kingdoms, the Koppány Yak roams, the steppe it resides on being the only area that it is known to inhabit. While there are other nations and locations where a Yak may be found, either wild or domesticated, it is noted that the Koppány Yak is exclusive to the Koppány region. Viewed as a hard working animal who provides a lot to the family’s longevity and work, ensuring that the land is both maintained and ready to grow any crops that are needed in the montane grasslands. The small numbers of these animals are not of any concern as the few of them always ensure that all the work that is needed is done. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀V⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ Upon the towering and rocky mountain ranges of Kvasz, lives the final cattle breed, the Kvasz Mountain-Bred, a hardy bovine with a knack for traversing the rock and uncomfortable ground and surviving on the little grass in the heights. This breed has come to be for the simple matter of necessity when a keep may be isolated within the aggressive climate and terrain that the mountains are commonly known for. These cattle have been bred to ensure that those who live upon the peaks may be completely sustained should the worst happen and they are no longer able to leave in order to replenish supplies. The Mountain-Bred are prominently known as a cattle with red skin and fur, also having black speckles upon them, creating an easily recognisable pattern. Very few of them may also have different shades, ranging from brown to beige, but the black speckles will always remain as a mark of the species. These cattle are also by far the smallest of the Haeseni breeds, meeting a peak height of just under four and a half feet, similar to that of the Koppány Yak that also resides within more mountainous regions. Unlike the Yaks, these are a far lighter breed, weighing around 650 kilograms, easily facilitating the lack of natural food that they will find on the lackluster grounds. These are not muscular cows whatsoever, their short and light stature leaving them wanting when it comes to the act of pulling freight or ploughs, though the latter is mostly unneeded in the mountains. Continuing the trend of this bovine being unlike others, they are also a ‘polled’ breed, meaning they do not grow horns whatsoever. The reason for this is not entirely certain, but it is believed that this may be to make it easier for transport and migration around the already dangerous region. It is important to recognise that this cow has adapted and grown for two purposes, the first is to live upon the mountains, asides from the aforementioned aspects of the creature, they also have cloven hooves with a soft inner pad to aid in their traversal of the rocks. The second purpose of this cow is to provide an overwhelming amount of produce for their owners and farms, of course in case of an isolating storm or natural disaster in the area. Often viewed as a lacking product, the Kvasz Mountain-Bred provides a very weak hide that has been battered by the snow, hail and tough winds. The leather is often reserved simply for decorating the hilts and handles of weapons, treated more as a sign of respect for the cattle that so sustains the people of Kvasz in their times of need or strife. It is rare to see this leather on the market as the Ludovars tend not to trust in it strongly as a product and thus wish not to sell it to others. The most prominent feature of this cow is their dairy production, a most sought after aspect. The cows of this breed produce milk at a rate unmatched by any other breed, able to sustain the small population and then some without so much as an issue. While this milk is not considered the best, its high fat content makes it a very desirable beverage amongst those who have had it before. Lastly, the bovine provides very average meat for consumption, a mediocre level of fat, little marbling if any and not incredibly tender either. This meat is not a favourite but it is often used so as to not waste the products that the Mountain-Bred provides. Solely found on the mountains of the Kvasz, the Kvasz Mountain-Bred is an incredibly short-lived animal, living around fifteen years at best. However, this is completely counteracted by the innate ability of the cow to repopulate its numbers swiftly, ensuring that the farmers and owners will never have to scramble to ensure that they do not die out, leaving the region going without. This breed has been viewed as a perfect animal purely for livestock as it maintains a high output throughout its lifespan and is able to continue its line without any problems. HER LADYSHIP, PRIMROSE EMELYA KORTREVICH, The “Rose” of Kortrevich JIRI BEDRICH NOVAK

“Who does this guy think he is?” questioned Caliope upon seeing a man with little to no real power over a situation, name someone the head of a house that he had no control over.

Jiri smiled warmly as the missive he had worked on with Primrose finally came to light, hopefully their studies into the Koravian traditions would receive a great amount of traction and more would engage in said traditions!

Caliope Mariya Colborn sat in her study at Kazan reading the document her cousin had written. It took her a while, however she enjoyed reading it greatly, her cousin had put out quite the scholarly article. Once she finished the missive she would sit down and pen a letter to Primrose: 'Dear Primrose, I told you, you have a far better writing style than I. You proved me correct once more! Love, Cali'

MC Name: HIGH_TRANS Discord: high_fire Image: Description of Image: Art of Acelia and Caliope Colborn Dimensions: 2 High, 1 Wide

Drunken Scyfling Cooking Competition As described in the Little Scyfling Cookbook, the Scyfling culture offers many impressive and delectable meals that anyone can cook. In order to spread this knowledge further, it is the will of Clan Colborn that an event shall be hosted in which people may both learn to cook these meals, compete and have fun together. Hosted within the grounds of Kazan, Lady Caliope Mariya Colborn shall teach all how to cook one of the meals presented in her book and at personal stations everyone will have a chance to cook the meal either alone or in pairs. The most accurate, best tasting and well presented meal shall take home the prizes and win the competition! The grand prize will be one hundred mina and a personally signed copy of the cookbook. However, there is a caveat. Before taking part in the competition, everyone shall be required to take four shots of traditional Scyfling Grog, forcing them to navigate both the recipe being dictated to them and their cooking station. Those who cause any danger to others shall be disqualified for their disregard for the rules and unable to win. SKRALI VOR GUD, Her Ladyship, Caliope Mariya Colborn Lady of Kazan

Ophelia read her mother's missive with wide, sorrowful eyes, abhorred that the Countess would be attacked in such a manner. While she tussled with the fears that now resided in her heart, she knew that they was something she could do to at least aid her mother. Hammer and tongs in hand, she took to her forge, no family member of hers would find themselves under duress without a weapon to defend themselves. She toiled night and day, hours upon hours until her Mother and siblings all had a means to protect themselves from any vile bandit or dark spawn incursion that may come their way.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpYxTcd6T_0 To all the musicians across Aevos, the Astrid Bardic Society calls upon you to show your skill, charm your audience, and stake your claim as the finest bard in the land. And so the stage shall be set, drinks poured, and the atmosphere to be charged with anticipation. So come forth and prove your mastery of the arts in a contest unlike another. This season’s Battle of the Bards will be held within the Tipsy Tarcher Tavern of New Valdev and witnessed largely by the people of Haeseni-Ruska, and all her allies. The competition is open to all, regardless of origin or affiliation. The stage is to welcome all. With this in mind, numerous prizes have been set for the winners of the night. As for the winner, they shall receive the honorary title of Grand Champion of the Tarcher Circuit. ⟡ FOR 1ST PLACE, THE GRAND CHAMPION SHALL RECEIVE 250 MINAES FOR 2ND PLACE, THEY SHALL RECEIVE 100 MINAES FOR 3RD PLACE, THEY SHALL RECEIVE 50 MINAES ⟡ The winners shall be determined by audience voting. Her Ladyship, Lady Acelia Irena Colborn, Grand Maer of New Valdev Her Ladyship, Lady Caliope Mariya d’Arkent His Lordship, Lord Cardan van Leuven

𑁍 ALEGRIA I UNITAT 𑁍 𑁍 JOY & UNITY 𑁍 ISSUED BY THE ⚜ CAMAREIRO ⚜ IN THE YEAR OF 149 B.A. A KINGDOM IS BUILT TO LAST, HOWEVER MANY DON'T. It is for the reason we must celebrate such major milestones for when a Kingdom reaches them. It is almost one hundred and fifty years since JOHN ‘THE FOUNDER’ followed the Constellation of SAINT LOTHAR to found the then Grand Duchy of Balian. This occasion can only be marked and celebrated with an entire year of celebrations and festivities of which the entire continent is invited to. AS WITH OUR FOREBEARS, we shall host events from the Crown, Courts and the Noble houses of Balian, displaying various facets of our culture and people. These shall take up the entirety of the one hundred and fiftieth annum, of which shall be overcome with celebrations and several chances to participate in Balianese culture. AVE Her Royal Majesty, KATHRYN OF RHEN; Head of La Cort de la Taronja ──────────────────────────•༺۝༻•────────────────────────── I. OPENING FEAST ⚘ A celebratory feast hosted by the Courts [Wednesday 19th Feb - 5pm EST] ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── WE SHALL BEGIN AS FESTIVALS SO OFTEN DO, with a feast in the feasting room of the Palatio Arancione. Three courses of meal and a variety of drinks shall be offered to everyone who wishes to engage in the festivity. The food will come from the kitchens of the Palace and prepared by the Royal Chef and the drinks will be sourced from the Royal Wine Cellar. Those in attendance will also receive a commemorative silver token that shall only be given at the feast and no other event. ─────────•༺۝༻•───────── II. GARDEN PARTY ⚘ Garden Party and Games hosted by Houses d’Arkent and Temesch [Thursday 20th Feb 5pm EST] ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── A DAY TO RELAX AND ENJOY THE PRESENT COMPANY AROUND ONESELF, Houses d’Arkent and Temesch shall host a party in the gardens of SUNHOLDT. There shall be several party games to enjoy and beverages offered from the renowned d’Arkent wine cellars. All shall revel in the beauteous vegetation and the company of their friends and strangers alike under the beating sun of Balian. ─────────•༺۝༻•───────── III. ROYAL TOURNEY ⚘ A tournament hosted by the Crown [Friday 21st Feb 5pm EST] ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── THE SPECTACLE OF COMBAT PULLS THE GAZES OF ALL, and as such, the CROWN shall host their own tourney for the denizens of Aevos. This shall first begin with a simple jousting competition, with a mina incentive for the winner of the tournament. After this we shall witness a team melee combat take place, where groups of allies or strangers will band together and fight other groups with blades, also in order to gain a mina prize. ──────────────────────────•༺۝༻•────────────────────────── IV. PLAY OF THE FOUNDING ⚘ A dramatic retelling of our founding by the Kingdom of Beelian [Saturday 22nd Feb - 5pm EST] ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── WITH THE PRINCE OF MONTEROSA’S STUDIES INTO BALIANESE HISTORY, the Kid Kingdom of Beelian has opted to host a play about the founding of our great nation. Following the then Prince John of the Orenian Empire, as he finds himself leading the Imperial Loyalist Diaspora leaving the heartlands for the deserts dunes. The Star of St Lothar led him in all his faith to eventually found the Grand Duchy of Balian. ─────────•༺۝༻•───────── V. NOBLE EXHIBITION ⚘ An exhibition of Balian’s noble heritage hosted by Houses Vuiller and Ruthern [Sunday 23rd Feb 4pm EST] ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── A LOT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED IN ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY YEARS, and this truly ought to be displayed and presented to the Balianese people. HOUSE VUILLER and HOUSE RUTHERN shall present many relics from Balianese history including those of general history and noble heritage in both Balian and its Imperial predecessor. Those of the Kingdom who do not harbour a great understanding of our Kingdom’s great history will be able to uncover a wide array of historical facts. ─────────•༺۝༻•───────── VI. SCAVENGER HUNT AND FASHION AUCTION ⚘ An auction and hunt hosted by Houses de Lyons and Tuvia [Monday 24th Feb 5pm EST] ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── FASHION IS A FAVOURITE TOPIC OF MANY, and as such House de Lyons shall host an auction of various dresses, garbs and sets of armour in order to raise for the Crown's tireless work. Everyone is suggested to give to the auction in order to give more options and chances to buy beautiful fashion. At the same time House Tuvia shall host a scavenger for all to take part in, spanning over the entire Kingdom, mountain to sea. Such shall come with some incredible prizes so be sure to seek it out! •༺۝༻• VII. CLOSING BALL ⚘ An extravagant Ball hosted by the Courts. [Tuesday 25th Feb - 5pm EST] ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── TO END THE YEAR’S FESTIVITIES OFF, a great ball shall be hosted in the ballroom of the Palatio Arancione for everyone to engage in. The dress code is simple, dress within the bounds of your House colours, be it Royal, Noble or commoner. Take pride in your heritage and those who paved the way for you and your family and dance the entire evening away. A prize shall be levied for whoever dresses in such a manner that best honours those who came before them so make sure you have the best outfit for the ball! •༺۝༻• Invitations are extended to: His Royal Majesty, Karl IV, King of Hanseti-Ruska and His Royal pedigree His Royal Majesty, Therin I, King of the Petra and His Royal pedigree His Royal Highness, Erwin I, Prince in Reinmar and of Minitz and His Royal Pedigree Her Royal Highness, Xiomara I, Sovereign Princess of Hyspia and Her Royal pedigree His Royal Highness, Earoslav I, Sovereign of Ravenmire, and His Royal Pedigree Her Highness, Princess Cecily, Duchess of Alba, and Her Noble Pedigree His Highness, Prince Edward, Duke of Alba, and His Noble Pedigree His Royal Majesty, Tar-Anorhil of Númendil, and His Royal Pedigree The Silver State of Haelun'or The Principality of Celia'nor His Grace, Sir Marcel Vuiller, Duke of Aquiliae, and his noble pedigree Her Grace, Esfir d'Arkent, Duchess of Sunholdt and her noble pedigree The Right Honorable, Heinrik var Ruthern, Count of Kositz, and his noble pedigree The Right Honorable, Augusta Temesch, Count of San Adriano, and his noble pedigree The Most Honorable, Colette de Lyons, Viscountess of Enderoca, and her noble pedigree The Honorable, Calliope Novellen-Tuvia, Baroness of Tuvia, and her noble pedigree ༺ ⚘ ༻ FOR JOY, FOR UNITY Per Alegria, Per Unitat •༺ ⚘ ༻• His Royal Majesty, JOHN II, by the Grace of God, King of Balian, Prince of Providence, Duke of Helena, Lorraine and Reutov, Count of Pompourelia, Viscount of Eflen, Anatis and Valio, Baron of Renzfeld, Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Montcoure and Ciavola, Lord of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, Warden of La Costa Rubinissima, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera. Her Royal Majesty, KATHRYN OF RHEN, Queen-Consort of Balian, Princess of Providence, Duchess-Consort of Helena, Lorraine, and Reutov, Countess-Consort of Pompourelia, Viscountess-Consort of Eflen, Anatis, and Valio, Baroness-Consort of Renzfeld, Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Montcoure and Ciavola, Lady of Portoregne, Atrus, and Monterosa, etcetera Her Royal Excellency, ESFIR ARTEMISIA D’ARKENT, Duchess of Sunholdt, Countess of Salia, Lady of El Palau del Sol, Matriarch of House d’Arkent, Amiratus of Balian, Lady Seneschal of the Crown, and Chief Minister of the Royal Duana Her Excellency, CALLIOPE NOVELLEN-TUVIA, Baroness of Tuvia, Palatadoria of La Cort de la Taronja Her Ladyship, Caliope Mariya d’Arkent, Lady of Sunholdt and Camareiro of El Cort de la Taronja

After some months of caring for the woman who had been hit by the fireball, Caliope would go up to the second floor of the tavern. She looked around at the damage that had been left by the attack. Yes, the tavern had been cleaned up, but burn marks do not fade so easily, so her eyes focused on that, the fire that similarly harmed the Bishop and Grand Maer. After some minutes of simply assessing the damage, she finally looked to the sword at her side, the sword she had gained while the attack was underway. Caliope gritted her teeth as a bitter reality set in for her, if she was to truly want to look after those she cared for, she would have to learn to protect them as well as look after them.

A Young Lady of Temesch would smirk at the missive as she read it over "Perfect! I shall find them and attempt to make a wonderful trade... more books for all of us" she uttered to nobody inside her bookshop.

10th of Julia and Piob Of 568 Es. A traditional Scyfling feast Introduction: Environmental changes and human necessity strongly influence a culture’s diet and meals as they must adapt to their surroundings and needs. Like all cultures, the Scyfling people have developed a unique and beautiful set of dishes and meals that befit what they need and what they enjoy. In order to elucidate the Scyfling culture and their habits more, this informative missive shall bring to light the dietary aspects, culinary traditions and meals of the culture. An ancient depiction of Meat Smoking Dietary Aspects: A primary aspect of any Aevosian diet is meat, for which the Scyflings have many fine options and tastes. Common to most cultures, beef, mutton, goat and chicken are all popular with the Scyflings, often being reared by local farmers as produce for the nearby nobility. A more rare and uncommon mear, exclusive to the Scyflings is Reindeer. Reindeer is a meat that the hunters of a house will seek out and gather for special occasions. It is a rich and earthy taste that is often sought after by the nobility as it is both considered a delicacy and solely for special occasions. Fish is also an important part of the Scyfling diet, found in many meals and snacks. In the local seas, the Scyflings fish for both cod and herring, the latter being a fish that takes quite a few different shapes. Herring is often found to be fermented or pickled in order to preserve the meat of the fish so as to ensure it will always have it to eat in times of low stocks. In addition, cod and herring are both often fried when people wish for fresh fish after a long day of fishing. In the local lakes and rivers, salmon is often sourced by those Scyfling fishermen, similarly fried like the other fish but can be cured in order to create ‘Gravlax’ a local dish of high renown. The harsher northern lands are often not receptive to growing crops, with few being able to weather the climate related obstacles. Peas and kale are known to be two of the only greens able to grow amongst the aggressive weather that surrounds the lands of the Scyfling people. These are often grown in smaller allotments besides a homestead that are tended to daily to ensure that the weather does not affect them too harshly. Root vegetables are much more commonly grown because their place under the earth allows them to grow without the weather causing much issue. rutabaga, turnips, potatoes, carrots and parsnips are the most common vegetables, used in the majority of dishes. Much like with vegetables, the grains that the Scyflings grow must be handpicked for its ability to endure the abrasive force of nature that may hinder it. For this, the oat, barley and rye grain crops are most often picked, grown in large fields where they can grow together, the weather being less effective when they’re in groups. Each of these crops can be ground into a flour to make bread, pancakes or similar baked goods as well as various types of beers. Barley may also be added to stews in order to thicken it as the grain will become more gelatinous and provide a heartier dish. The oats are often also used in porridge and bars with honey in order to provide perservable breakfasts. Finally, dairy, much like in all human cultures, is important within the day to day meals of the Scyfling people. Milk at its basis is a staple of any culture, used within drinks, breakfasts and various meals as it is a very versatile product. However, in the northern regions, preservation is always key due to the natural challenges presented but the climate. Filmjölk is a fermented milk that provides a fitting preservable resolution to this problem, used prominently within breakfast foods, it may also be used within baking and drinks to offer a fitting alternative to the issues presented with the aging and souring of the milk which typically is not edible after some weeks. Butter and cheese are both quite common, with churning of the butter being a weekly occurrence and large cheese cellars holding wheels of cheese that have been flavoured with nuts foraged in local forests. A group of Hunters proving strength in numbers Culinary Traditions: As priorly alluded to, food preservation is of utmost importance within the Scyfling families and traditions as both production and rotting of food is a high concern to all. The preservation of food, most commonly meat and fish, though also milk and vegetables, is done in many different manners. The first is pickling, where using vinegar, water, sugar as well as dill and peppercorns for flavour, the Scyfling shall place herrings or root vegetables to ensure that they are preserved for a far longer time, and also grant them a far better flavour. Fermentation is also an option and can take various different routes, often using salt water that is changed out twice in order to cure the fish or vegetable to ensure its continued sustenance. Finally smoking is the final form, in which salted meat or fish would be hung above a slow burning wood fire, allowing the food to slowly cure and inherit the smoky taste of the wood fire. This meat is often the chosen sustenance of hunters or travellers as it carries well and remains incredibly palatable. One of the most versatile dishes known to descendant kind, the stew is an extremely hearty meal that can be made with several different options. Commonly it requires a source of meat that is either fish or livestock, a source of grain or potato and a variety of vegetables. Often the grain will come in the form of barley pearls which will soak up gravy that the stew is cooked in and grow, becoming more gelatinous and making the meal a lot thicker as the liquid is reduced. Stews tend to be used for feast days, in which a large group of people come for dinner and when this occurs the meals are usually prepared in several large pots to ensure that everyone gets the same dish and great amounts of it. In order to gather the fish or rarer meat, a group of Scyfling must go hunting or fishing to provide for their family. Fishing is done upon boats with groups of around six to eight, in order to ensure a healthy amount of people fishing as well as those who see to the boats steady traversal through the water. While most tend to take these larger groups on boat trips down rivers or seas, it is not unheard of for a smaller group to take a spear and net in order to catch unsuspecting Salmon in shallower areas. Hunting, much like fishing, is done within larger groups, however this is more for the sense of protection, as both predatory animals and bandits can cause great issues for those wishing to gather for their kin. These hunters shall take two spears, a bow and a skinning knife with them as they seek Reindeer, Moose and other animals that are considered to be a little more rare due to their undomesticated spirit. These hunts can last up to a week, and the return of a hunting party is a well celebrated event. Local Scyfling bakers making Semla Meals and Recipes: Now that you have garnered a greater understanding of the Scyfling diet and culinary habits, you can begin cooking Scyfling food. Each meal will be explained as to what it is and if relevant, when it is served, followed by a simple to follow recipe so that you can make it yourself and enjoy the delights of the Scyfling culture in all its form. Semla: Eaten mostly on holidays, Semla is a simple but delicious sweet treat that is a favourite amongst the children and a guilty pleasure of their elders. Utilising almonds that are grown predominantly in small orchards nearby homesteads and keeps. This is an easy recipe that provides for a wonderful treat for the whole family. Start by crushing almonds in a mortar, adding them to a bowl with the white of an egg, sugar and a spoon of water. Mix until it forms a paste and set that aside. Then, mix a small amount of bread flour with equal parts of water and milk, heat upon a stove until bubbling and thick. Set aside on a plate to cool. Mix flour, sugar and salt together before adding the cooled mixture of bread flour, water and mix, combining it together. Combine a sprinkling of yeast and milk together and add to the dough, mixing it into a dough like substance while also adding butter. Set this aside overnight in a cool area. Divide the dough into equal parts and brush an egg mixture over it before placing it into the baking heart to cook. When golden brown, remove the Semla and allow them to cool. Once cool, you must hollow out the inside of the bun for the filling. To make the filling, add the almond paste with milk, cream and sugar to form the almondy cream which is then piped into the bun. Place the top of the bun on it and dust with sugar. Pea Soup: A simple and elegant beginning to a meal, the Scyfling Pea Soup is an easily made soup that is most often enjoyed as a prelude to a far larger main course. Made with peas, onions, carrots and ham, alongside various herbs, this is a perfect soup for all to enjoy. Add peas, chopped onions and carrots, an onion with two cloves pressed into it and a bone of ham to water and bring it to a boil. Remove any foam from the top of the water and allow for it to simmer for ninety minutes. Remove the skins of the peas from the surface and then take two or three cups aside and run it through a sieve in order to get a pureed form of the liquid. Return the puree to the pot and allow it to continue to simmer for an hour. Season with thyme, ginger, salt and pepper. Remove the ham and the clove studded onion and cut the ham up into smaller pieces. Allow to cook for another ten minutes and then serve up. Kroppkakor: Perfect for lunch on its own or for dinner alongside vegetables and a sauce, Kroppkakor is akin to a dumpling. Typically made with meat, vegetables, berries and nuts, it is a beautiful mix of various flavours, further enhanced with herbs and spices creating a wonderful recipe. It can be made in many different ways, but this is a traditional recipe. Peel the skin of potatoes, boil them until soft and then drain them, allowing all moisture to leave it. Add butter to the potatoes and mash. Leave until cooled and then add salt, flour and egg yolks, mixing until dough-like. Set that aside. Chop thymes, onions and cured pork roughly. Fry them together until golden brown. Add diced mushrooms, hazelnuts and kale to the pan and continue to fry until cooked completely. Sprinkle allspice in. Portion the potato up equally and turn them into flat discs. Put a spoonful of filling in the middle of each disc and roll each one into a ball in order to form the dumpling. Add butter to a pan and fry, searing the dumplings, ensuring that they are brown and smell nutty. Serve alongside a berry jam or a chicken gravy. Kalops: Stew is a staple of the Scyfling diet and Kalops is a traditional form of Scyfling stew. Made with beef, vegetables, potatoes and wine, this is an incredibly popular stew, especially for large feasts among families. The dish is easy for anyone to cook and is most often cooked in huge pots for the aforementioned feasts. Cube your raw beef and dry with a cloth or paper. Coat it in flour thereafter. Dice some onions and then mince garlic very finely before placing that aside. Place butter into the pot and cook the beef, waiting until all sides of the beef are completely brown and then set aside. Add some more butter and then the onions, cook until clear and saute the garlic. Add some flour and mix so that the flour covers the garlic and the onions. Add the beef once more and allow to mix with the vegetables. Add red wine and allow it to boil for a minute before adding water to cover the meat. Add carrots, beef broth, peppercorns, allspice, bay leaves and allow to boil for an hour. Consistently check the stew until thick, remove the bay leaves and allspice. Serve alongside pickled beetroot. Pepparkakor: Pepparkakor are ginger thins, easy to make and very delectable. These are an invention of the Scyfling people and due to their sustainability and consistent taste, they are used by hunters and merchants as they travel around the continent. Mix butter, cloves, ginger, cardamom and cinnamon in a bowl until completely mixed. Heat sugar, syrup and molasses until the sugar has melted and allow to cool for ten to fifteen minutes. Combine the sugar mixture and the butter mixture, then allow it to cool until room temperature. Mix the flour into the mixture until dough like and leave for eight hours in a cool area. Use ferrum disks to cut them into thin shapes, place on a baking tray and cook for five to six minutes. Allow to cool and decorate with icing. Signed, The Honourable, Caliope Mariya d’Arkent, Lady of Sunholdt

While walking through the White City, looking for new dresses to buy and perhaps see her sister or friends, Caliope would come across the missive, immediately panic stricken. After a good five minutes of rambling to herself, Calliope would decide not to buy anything and sent off a letter to the witch with her bid. "250 mina - Sunholdt, Balian. Please bring my friend back, she would never hurt anyone"

𑁍 ALEGRIA I UNITAT 𑁍 𑁍 JOY & UNITY 𑁍 ISSUED BY THE ⚜ CAMAREIRO ⚜ IN THE YEAR OF 147 B.A. A STAPLE IN ANY KINGDOM OR NATION, smithing and metalworking is the backbone of several industries, merchants, armies and jewellery. It is how we garner our rings, necklaces and bracelets, how we fight with swords, axes and maces, and how we have metal beer mugs, ship bolts and cooking utensils. The Balianese people, such as any culture or group of people, have developed their own unique techniques and items from well over a century of development of issues in trade and martial ability. These items have become quite prominent within the local trade, military and noble fashion of Portoregne’s bustling livelihood. It is for this reason we seek to set light upon these items and the local smithing culture of Balian. AVE Her Royal Majesty, KATHRYN OF RHEN; Head of La Cort de la Taronja ──────────────────────────•༺۝༻•────────────────────────── I. THE PARASPADA ⚘ Curved Blade of the Balianese Elite ── King John I with his personal Paraspada ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── A SWORD AKIN TO A CURVED SABRE, the Paraspada is the choice weapon of all Balianese Lords and the Cavalrymen of the South. A weapon ideal for the wide swings of horseback combat due to its curved blade that follows through with the path of singular sharpened edge. It may also be used for duelist combat, as the abnormal shape of the metalwork allows for it to be quite unpredictable to someone who is not well trained in the art of swordplay. It is often said throughout the denizens of Portoregne, that the sign of a truly rich Lord is one that holds a Paraspada with a unique and complex hilt and pommel to it, as it is more expensive for a smith to craft such patterning. A standard soldier often fights with a simple iron crossguard but a Lord would duel with a Paraspada with a complex, jewel-encrusted aurum crossguard depicting scenes from history or myth. ─────────•༺۝༻•───────── II. BALIANESE CHAIN ⚘ An intricate and beautiful braid chain ── The First Balianese chain ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── A COMPLEX AND EXPENSIVE PIECE OF JEWELLERY, the Balianese Chain features the great example of expertise Balianese craftsmanship. Made through a system of intermingling chains in an incredibly specific pattern, it is only the most impressive of smiths who can pull off the braid-like chain. Often made of the most bright metals in order to highlight the extensive energy and effort that must be placed into its creation. First made by Count Drako Darkwood of Renduzzo in the public forge of Atrus as he attempted to make something special for his wife Countess Johanna Vuiller of Aquillae. Due to the time and patience it takes for a person to make the Balianese chain, it is believed that if you were to give one to someone it is tantamount to professing a strong relationship between the giver and receiver. Truly this is an impressive and beautiful piece of metalwork. ─────────•༺۝༻•───────── III. HEPHAESTON BRONZE ⚘ A unique and wondrous Bronze alloy ── A Balianese Noblewoman adorned in Hephaeston Bronze ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── THIS SPECIALITY METAL ALLOY was originally made in the Lotharene desert by smiths who lacked enough Aurum to make purer Aurum jewellery and items. Utilising Copper as the primary component of the metal, Aurum was then added amongst a little Silver and allowed to mix as a molten mass within the forge’s flames. The early Balianese smiths found themselves with a metal that had a Rose Gold complexion, a more yellow version of Bronze. Originally this was viewed as a cheaper alternative to pure Aurum which had to be imported in by any who wished to wear due to its scarcity. However, Princess Augustina’s proclivity to wear almost exclusively the metal led to its growth in popularity and use amongst the noble circles of Balian, driving its cost up significantly. Hephaeston Bronze, named for Ancient Balthalite forges, has become a common feature amongst the very best of Balianese jewellery. •༺۝༻• ────────────────────────── IV. FULLA DAURADA ⚘ Gilded patterning unique to Modern Balianese Smiths ── Fulla Daurada design upon cloth template ──────•༺ ⚘ ༻•────── IN THE CONTEMPORARY ERA OF SMITHING, Balianese smiths continue to advance and evolve their crafter and in such they progress the cultural development of the Kingdom’s work. The Fulla Daurada is a recent development by the smith, Navalic of the White River, while working in his personal forge besides the Portoregne docks. It is a design, made from gilding the pattern of Cypress trees onto important aspects of an item such as the shoulders of armour or the pommel of a sword. While considered a personal design to Navalic, akin to a smith pressing their Coat of Arms into their work, a few other smiths around the Kingdom have begun using over leaves as a part of their own designs. Often these leaves are others that are seen within the local Jungles, palm trees or olive trees are both quite popular. It is believed that the practice of Fulla Daurada shall soon become quite popular in the Southern Jungles, however the work of Navalic of the White River shall always be considered the first. •༺۝༻•─ FOR JOY, FOR UNITY Per Alegria, Per Unitat •༺ ⚘ ༻• Her Royal Majesty, KATHRYN OF RHEN, Queen-Consort of Balian, Princess of Providence, Duchess-Consort of Helena and Lorraine, Countess-Consort of Pompourelia and Kositz, Vicountess-Consort of Eflen and Anatis, Baroness-Consort of Renzfeld, Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Montcoure and Ciavola, Lady of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, etcetera Her Royal Excellency, ESFIR ARTEMISIA D’ARKENT, Duchess of Sunholdt, Countess of Salia, Lady of El Palau del Sol, Matriarch of House d’Arkent, Amiratus of Balian, Lady Seneschal of the Crown, and Chief Minister of the Royal Duana Their Ladyship, Caliope Mariya d’Arkent, Lady of Sunholdt and Camareiro of El Cort de la Taronja

Adriana exclaimed with joy as she got the missive of her gift "ALL MY FRIENDS ARE PRINCESSES NOW I AM!". She knew she was wrong, but in her mind she rationalised that if a monarch gave her a tiara, surely she was Princess... surely....

LA CORTE SOL DORADA El Zafiro Hyspiano INTRODUCTION The Zafiro Hyspiano, otherwise known as the Hyspian Sapphire, is an incredibly beautiful gem that is considered incredibly rare as it can only be found amongst sandstone due to its mineral content. It holds an incredibly important place within the hearts of the Hyspian people both on the level of beauty and sentimental value. It is crucial to explain the history and beauty of the gem because it carries so much weight for the Hyspian people and story, following them from its discovery on Almaris to its continued use and coveted nature of it. This essay was first written by Lady Adriana Rosalind Temesch of San Adriano for her aunt, Sovereign Xiomara I of Hypisa, however it was then improved upon in terms of vernacular by an aid of the Temesch family. It was given to the Hyspian people as a post-mortem gift from the young girl to her recently deceased father, Tomas Salazar. [!] Queen Sofia’s Hyspian Sapphire necklace. History The Hyspian Sapphire was found by Francisco I, Sofia, Veronica and Alejandro de Pelear and their friend Amity Morovar while they were still children. The mine that held the first discovered Sapphires was just outside of the Ciudad de la Plata on the beaches of the Island. The children ventured outwards to the beach as often as they would, in order to play some games and swim around in the water, not too far away from their home. It is on this beach that they found a gap between the sand, exposing a quarry with several small mines within it. Being children, they were adventurous and all concerns about dangers were out the window. They eventually came across a sealed mine with a series of buttons and decided to press them at random, soon enough stumbling onto the correct passcode and opening the door to the mine. Inside was a collection of several gorgeous Sapphires of a beautiful deep blue that shimmered in the light gap of light from the large door. The children delighted in their discovery, assuming that they now be the richest of their age should they grab for them. Both Francisco and Sofia were drawn to it and gathered a few loose ones before running to their parents excited. With this the mining of these gems began, the de Pelears taking the mine for their own purposes. The firstborn of the children and rightful heir to the then Viceroyalty, Francisco I took the Sapphire as a symbol of his people due to its resemblance to the blue upon both his house and national crests. His crown, the one he wore for his investiture as the Viceroy of the Hyspians was made of silver and Sapphires from the local mine. Often these Sapphires found their place in what little jewellery he wore, used as a symbol of his leadership and care for the Hyspian people. Second born and firstborn daughter, Sofia was considered the foremost patron of the gems, wearing them in the various stylish outfits that she had gotten throughout her life. The mine where they had been discovered in her youth was granted to her upon her quinceanera as a gift due to her patronage of the gem. Later in life she would find herself becoming the Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska, being deemed the ‘Sapphire Queen’ by the denizens of the Haeseni palatial courts, further cementing her patronage. In the Aevosian era, the Hyspian Sapphire has fallen from primary favour to secondary as Aurum has become the desire for the nobility of Hyspia. However, the Zafiro Hyspiano has always been attributed to the Ciudad de la Plata including in the song ‘Welcome to Ciudad de la Plata’. It is also spoken amongst the miners of Hyspia that there is another Sapphire mine bearing the same gems within the desert they occupy. However, this is yet to be found and only time shall tell whether it shall be found. Qualities Unlike the sheer majority of other Sapphires that are harvested, Hyspian Sapphires are pure blue, lacking any secondary hues such as the common green or purple hues. This deep blue is an incredible beauty that resembles the blue within the Coat of Arms of the de Pelear family. When found in its natural form within the sandstone prison that it forms, the Hyspian Sapphire holds a very dark, muddied blue colour with a very dusty coat upon it, due to the abrasive nature of its home. Almost completely opaque, the Sapphire holds a very unassuming visage, visibly unattractive and often ignored by those miners who do not have a great understanding of the Sapphire themselves. Upon a jeweller working with the Sapphire, polishing and cutting it, the translucent admiral blue, when held up towards a source of light, would refract it several times over, casting the same admiral blue shade over anything on the other side of the gem. Truly a sight to behold, the Zafiro Hyspiano is considered by scholars of crystals and gems to be the most pure of Sapphires for its colour, hues and tones produced. Meanings and Beliefs The Hyspian people, due to their love of the Sapphire, have placed a great deal of meaning upon the gem. The foremost being that it is a sign of loyalty, predominantly due to the shade being so close to their ruling families chosen primary colour. The secondary meaning applied to it is a sense of love, often going hand in hand with the former meaning as a gift to one that someone has a great deal of love and appreciation for. The third and final meaning is one of upper class is more inferred than spoken, this is due to its association with the de Pelear family and the high cost of the Sapphire. It is believed that a Zafiro Hyspiano is far better than a diamond for an wedding ring, as it is both considered more expensive and of a deeper, more powerful meaning to the culture. A ring made of Aurum with the Sapphires is the very best wedding ring that one can offer in Hyspian culture. The more superstitious consider this gem to be one of great power, offering them both protection from Dark Magicks as though it created a barrier between them and those Dark Mages and their scheming, and protection from poverty meaning should they have a great wealth, they shall not lose it so long as they have these Sapphires. DIOS LOS BENDIGA, HER SERENE HIGHNESS, Xiomara I, Sovereign of Hyspia, Duchess of Pacazu, Viscountess of Banderas, Baroness of Arenisca, Del’mar, Monterro, Campagnon and Sevilla, Lady of La Dorada, Lady of Niseep, Gereon’s Hold and Ciudad de Plata, Protector of the Hyspian People, Protector of the Farfolk, Matriarch of House de Pelear, Knight of the Order of the Prophetic Hill of Lorina, etcetera. The Honourable, Adriana Rosalind Temesch, Lady of San Adriano

The Lotharion Part 1: Departure from Korades Foreword: The Lotharion is an esteemed folktale of the Old Balthalite people recollecting the journey of Prince Lothar of the Balthalite Empire, later to become Patron Saint of the Lorraine Cross, to the continent of Aegi after sealing his corrupted father. However, due to the oral tradition of the Balthalites, it is difficult to ascertain what aspects, if any, are factual. Most scholars of the natural world consider its fantastical aspects inflated. Yet, it has endured as a lasting tale that is told to Rhenyari, both young and old, finally being transcribed for Aevosians by Lady Caliope Mariya d’Arkent. This first part of the story is set on the island of Korades, after Prince Lothar had converted the natives to the true faith, the Old Balthalite strain of Proto-Canonism. It depicts the strong sailing and mercantile traditions of the region, displaying the surrounding port in its full glory as well as the Empyrean aspects of The Archpriest Iosan and Prince Lothar share a conversation before Lothar’s departure, discussing the faith and the journey ahead of them. And so here we lay our scene: Lothar and his host had sailed to Korades after they had slayed his Father and redeemed the people of Balian from the darkness that shadowed over them. Yet this journey was not easy, and both rations and the well-being of their ships were debased, It was then that Lothar willingly accepted the aid of the people of Korades, pitching camp by the port for his crew while intermingling with the locals. Yet, once learning of the origins of these foreigners, the Koradi demanded payment in the form of teaching, for they wanted not for gold. Lothar spent many moons in the hospitality of these people and taught them the ways of the Balthalite. He spoke of the one true Creator of the world, his aenguls, and the importance of Virtue and Spirit as told to him by the Scrolls of the Exalted. One day, before the Magisters of the Koradi, he was asked to explain the concept of a single GOD, for the islanders worshipped many animal-faced dieties. So he laid three sticks on the floor of the forum and spoke unto the assembly, “the bar above is the Seven Skies, where GOD resides and rules over his Kingdom, amongst his aenguls, Saints, and Exalted.” He then moved his hand to the lesser stick on the cross and said, “this represents our world, to remind us that we are below the seven skies and must aspire to the Skies.” Finally, he pointed to the absence below the second bar “This is the void. There is nothing here, for in the absence of GOD there is only nothingness.” And so the Koradi were converted. They took up the Cross of Lorraine as an icon of the faith. It was painted on houses, worn as necklaces, and sewn into clothes. Chief amongst these new disciples was Iosan, a wealthy merchant, who abandoned his life of vice and spent his vast wealth building a temple to the Creator in Koradotta, the capital of the island. Atop this wonderous temple, in the place of honour, stood the Lorraine Cross, made of polished silver. To this day it is said Koradi remembers the words of Iosan when it was mounted, “let this be your reminder of our new faith and trust in the Seven Skies above.” At the port of Korades, a beautiful structure made of a bright speckled diorite stands before several boats beset in resplendent regalia. Amidst this revelry stood a delegation of the faith, and opposite them an armed escort of the Balthalite Empire. Before the armoured men stood a tall man of tanned skin in dazzling silver and gold armour, a man known as Lothar. The man he spoke with was none other than Archpriest Iosan of Korades, who wore the white and purple robes of the clergy. “Our people have received enlightenment through your teachings and through GOD” Iosan declared, a firm smile upon his face as the Prince seemed to focus back on the conversation. “I did nothing but what GOD directed me to do. I am naught more than a vessel for his divine teachings” the Balianite explained, his face maintaining one of neutrality. It was then he turned to observe the temple and rested his hand on his hilt. As he admired the glory unto GOD Iosan interjected, “you are correct, yet you brought the light of His love to us, it is for that you have our eternal thanks for all that you have done.” The cleric peered over Lothar’s shoulder, spotting an impatient midshipman awaiting the presence of his prince, so he went to conclude the conversation., “It seems your host wishes to leave for your home after all these years”. The Clergymen gestured to the place he had been looking to with his Aurum Crozier. The Prince swivelled on his heel to get a proper sight of the Midshipman, who merely offered a nod towards Lothar, affirming the crew’s desire to depart the Isle. “It seems that way, old friend, shall we pray before we depart?” he queried as he turned to face the priest once more. The Archpriest offered his smile over to Lothar as his hands went to clasp together in the fashion of prayer, Lothar following suit. “Dear GOD above us-” the prayer began as their heads rose high to peer at the skies above them. “With your Spirit and Virtue guide us in all that we do, through our wrongs and through our rights. Guide this Vessel and its crew back to their home safely and hear our prayers for their continued success and wellbeing. Hear us in these moments and these words. Amen.” the Archpriest enounced, awaiting the inevitable response. “Amen.” said the Prince and the nearby crew. Just when the prayer concluded, Lothar placed a hand on the shoulder of Iosan. “Thank you Geron, GOD be with you and Koradi, your hospitality to our people will naught be forgot.” “Safe travels, Prince Lothar” offered the Archpriest, signing the Lorraine over the man. As silence came over both, Lothar walked towards his vessel, boarding it and greeting his crew. The crew began to row into the open sea as Lothar stood upon the deck, gazing out to the Isle of Korades. As he turned from the other four ships, he saw the Archpriest heading back into the city. The wind blew through the tall cypress trees and the red and gold banners that adorned the small white buildings. While Lothar wished it not to be so, he knew he would not see this island again. For he heard the beckoning calls of the blue sea before him.

TEMESCH BOOKSHOP est. 146 B.A BY THE HOUSE TEMESCH ET MARTIEL COME ONE, COME ALL, Have you ever wanted to learn how to make edible alchemical treats that can cause you to float up to be beside the clouds? Do you have interest in old cities and cultures that have since died out? Maybe you wish to understand the proper etiquette of using a Mace or how to speak simple phrases in several different languages across the entirety of Aevos? Well the Temesch Bookshop est 146 B.A has all the books you need to learn these things and much much more! With over fifty different books for sale and several more on the way, we have all the books you could ever need for all your problems. Including books with Warforging recipes, various different languages and how to defeat the most abhorrent of darkspawn abominations! All of these books are at very reasonable prices so come now while we still have stock in! If you have any special requests or wish to ask any questions about our stock, send a bird to Lady Adriana Rosalind Temesch [HIGH_TRANS]. S I G N E D , The Most Honourable, Augusta Eliana Temesch Countess of San Adriano, Countess of Martiel, Amfirito of La Cort de la Magrana The Honourable, Adriana Rosalind Temesch Lady of San Adriano

The Countess of Damesch would grin at her invitation to the coronation before parading it around San Adriano with great glee "Fraters! Sorellas!! We shall be going to this so make sure to be dressed nicely!" she declared as she wondered if the new King of Beelian would hold true to his word to her...

A man of ginger locks and beard gazed down from his place above. He felt a great sense of pride that such a tradition continued to be a part of the Kingdom. He felt pride seeing that his family still held strength there but also that the Kingdom stood strong. "May it persist as it always has" he spoke with a great smile upon his face.

Caliope smirked as the missive was released, excited to perform at the event and even more so for the Bardic society to begin its journey…