prophetisms

it would be @Frawlic, @Koodini,@RingAroundRosey, @Divinational, @sarahbarah and @critter just to see what happens

what's his number? asking for a friend,,,

AN OPEN FUNERAL CEREMONY FOR QUEEN JULIYA OF REINMAR. From the Royal Court. c. 10th OF WZUVAR AND BYVCA, 554 E.S. ㅤUpon the 12th of Msitza and Darung in the year 552 E.S., Her Royal Majesty Juliya Elena Barbanov-Bihar, née Barclay, succumbed to the ailment which had languished upon her for months. The Queen’s untimely passing left us with a shade of grief, a task in which even the strongest of us find profound difficulties. But rather than dwell on her passing, we choose to herald the life she lived. ㅤWith every breath she drew, the late Queen not only strived for greater unity between our Dual-Kingdom and the Principality of Reinmar, but she achieved such concord, successfully ushering in an era of unprecedented peace with our northern allies. So although we grieve, we recognize that no time has proved more appropriate to honor our beloved Queen. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ㅤWith steadier hearts, the Royal Court hereby announces the funeral procession for the late Queen Juliya of Reinmar to take place this coming of Tov and Yermey. In accordance with her status as a Haeseni Queen and roots as a Reinmaren tribeswoman, those she’s left in the wake of her passing will gather in Aleksandrplatz for the procession to her funeral pyre. The Queen’s shrouded body will be ferried to the former Duchy of Reinmar, where she will be laid upon the pyre alongside a royal steed for her journey into the afterlife. ㅤHer Serene Highness, Oliviya Lorina, will stand vigil with a priest of Jorenus beside her late mother as the ceremony is conducted. Aside from the adornments already set in Queen Juliya’s honor, the congregation will be called to lay appropriate tributes and personal mementos. Thereafter, the priest will come to explain her achievements and legacy, and continue on with the Jorenic Rite. ㅤPrincess Oliviya will lay the final tribute for Queen Juliya before the pyre is lit by King Marius III, signaling the end of her vigil. Any words or tales may be held during the burning, before the congregation disperses. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ㅤIn honor of Juliya and the Reinmaren way, a runestone will be unveiled to those lingering after the initial procession. This runestone will be in the palace gardens, rightfully among past kings and queens. It will herald her story as we know it, and be a physical testament to her mark on Haeseni history. His Royal Majesty, Marius III, by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Marian Retinue, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Slesvik, Solvesborg, and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia, and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald, and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Markev, Nenzing, Siegrad, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Astfield, Buck, Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, and Rytsburg, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector and Lord of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Serene Highness, Oliviya Lorina Barbanov-Bihar The Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska, Duchess of Greywyn. Her Excellency, Lady Mahaut van Leuven, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska and Crow Warden of the Royal Court. Her Ladyship, Lady Astoria Ludovar, Deputy Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska

A LETTER TO CODIFY PROTECTIONS FOR THE ANIMALS OF THE MENAGERIE. Written by Cardan Matteo van Leuven and issued by Mahaut Marie van Leuven. c. 553 E.S. ┣────────────────────────────────┫ㅤ✸ㅤ┣────────────────────────────────┫ ㅤI have served almost a decade tenure as Keeper of the Royal Menagerie, a position I hold with both pride and responsibility. Since the public opening of the Royal Menagerie, I have come to understand that the protection of the animals extends beyond my personal stewardship. Therefore, I humbly propose that the Royal Duma codify these protections into the law. ㅤThe animal residents of the Royal Menagerie are the property of the Royal Court, and by extension, the Crown. We run the Royal Court’s offices and facilities on the Crown’s behalf. The fauna of the menagerie should be explicitly recognized by the Duma as the Crown’s property and be given the full protections against harm. Ergo, any who violates these protections also receives full punishment. ┣────────────────────────────────┫ㅤ✸ㅤ┣────────────────────────────────┫ THE APPROPRIATE ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS TO THE HAURUL CAEZK SHOULD BE AS FOLLOWS: Ch. VI. “Regarding acts of treason and invasion”[1] IV.I. Let he who conspires to bring harm against or breaks an oath to the Crown, the Royal Household, or the Kingdom be branded a traitor to the realm and be guilty of Treason. ㅤi. Harm shall consider harm brought to animals beneath the Crown and the Royal Household. ㅤ❖ ㅤThis would build upon the subsubsections of treason and invasion as perpetrators of acts against the Royal Menagerie would be harming fauna in the ultimate possession and jurisdiction of the Crown. [1] Ve Haurul Caezk, 525 E.S. Crown, 525 E.S. ┣────────────────────────────────┫ㅤ✸ㅤ┣────────────────────────────────┫ SIGNED, WITH DILIGENCE, Her Serene Highness, Oliviya Lorina Barbanov-Bihar, The Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska, Duchess of Greywyn. Her Excellency, Lady Mahaut van Leuven, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska and the Crow Warden of the Royal Court. His Lordship, Lord Cardan van Leuven, Keeper of the Royal Menagerie.

It didn’t take long for the missive to make its way to the Grand Lady, by the beak of a well-trained Carrier Crow. She would’ve put it on her desk, but it was already swamped with an extra letter and parchments towards improvements for the true issues highlighted at the opening. “Perhaps Ea need to arrange a discussion with ve youngest of Amador,” Mahaut spoke to no person. All she got was a caw in return.

The Grand Lady sat within her office as she went over the recent missives of Haense. In her grasp was the very well-written essay on worms. She beamed with pride, even though the young Kovachev had tracked mud in and left an awful lot of dirt jars by the door.

In the highest halls of Castle Lesanov, Mahaut existed in surreality. In crude irony, even. Now, she exists as a Grand Lady without a Queen. The one that not only approved of her recent elevation, but brought her into the Royal Court first as the humble Crow Warden. Both Time and Mahaut moved on, but Juliya would not.

In the sprawling hills of the Aestmarch a little girl sat within her own room. In her unmade bed, she stared at a paper. A letter, rather, inked with her aunt’s handwriting. “I believe we can learn a great deal from one another,” were the words that jumped out at Dszamila, in an invitation to ward under the Duchess of Vidaus. They did not match the past warnings of her own wary and worn down mother. They did, however, match the comfort afforded in the depths of Vidaus. “A little secret,” Tatiyana told Dszamila. “Those who make vy the most mad are those vy love the most.” When paired with a smile, the truth brought the little Korvacz niece out her sobs that night. In the abrupt passing of Tatiyana vas Ruthern, Dszamila would be mad at her aunt for a while.

A LETTER TO CODIFY PROTECTIONS FOR CROWS. Written by Mahaut Marie van Leuven. c. 549 E.S. ┣────────────────────────────────┫ㅤ✸ㅤ┣────────────────────────────────┫ ㅤI have spent a decade working within the Hope Court as Crow Warden. It is a position I am grateful for. In the reforms of Queen Juliya, the Crow Warden protects these birds “from harm or persecution.”[1] In defense against persecution, I realize I cannot enforce that on my own. Thus, I propose that the Royal Duma codify the conservation of crows into our law. ㅤThe crow is an animal of cultural, spiritual, and religious significance in Haense. Any ill-treatment it faces is an insult to our identity and Canonist forebears. The crow, above all in our age, has political influence. It is the bird on our nation’s standards, the bird that bears the symbols of the Aulic council and the bird that represents Carrion descending lines such as Ludovar and Barbanov-Bihar. An attack on any crow could send a message about what comes to us next. [1] Court Reforms (of Hanseti-Ruska). Juliya of Reinmar et al, 539 E.S. ┣────────────────────────────────┫ㅤ✸ㅤ┣────────────────────────────────┫ THE APPROPRIATE ADDITIONS TO THE HAURUL CAEZK SHOULD BE AS FOLLOWS: Ch. IV. “Regarding acts of treason and invasion”[1] IV.III. Let he who conspires to bring harm against crows for political or religious reasonings against the Crown, the Royal Household, or the Kingdom be branded a traitor to the realm and guilty of Treason. ㅤ❖ ㅤThis would become the third point in the subsection of treason and invasion to be consistent with the charges of treasons listed first in the chapter. IV.IV. Let he who partakes in the conspiracy to bring harm against crows for political or religious reasonings against the Crown, the Royal Household, or the Kingdom either by assisting, supplying, hiding or deliberately not sharing means and knowledge of harming crows be branded a traitor to the realm and be guilty of Aiding and Abetting Treason. ㅤ❖ ㅤThis would become the fourth point in the subsection of treason and invasion to be consistent with the charges of treasons listed first in the chapter. [1] Ve Haurul Caezk, 525 E.S. Crown, 525 E.S. ┣────────────────────────────────┫ㅤ✸ㅤ┣────────────────────────────────┫ SIGNED, WITH DILIGENCE, Lady Mahaut van Leuven, Deputy Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska and the Crow Warden of the Royal Court.

Dszamila Korvacz had taken quick notice of the study thanks to her diligent kin. “There’s so many pretty houses,” the girl was in awe. She was especially thrilled to see her own!

All good! It was something I was curious about and that clarification helps out a lot already. Good luck to you both again!

I wanted to give my opinion again on this because I noticed something that really caught my attention this time: I don’t see an issue with the mechanics of the spells written out. Something that could cause issue or raise questions is the use of percentages. This magic would encapsulate a larger aspect of the playerbase on LOTC, and that might include players that aren’t so veteran to the server. Do you see the percentages as something that makes the magic easier to digest in writing? Would this be helpful for players with less experience on the server? Or less experience in magic specifically? Would it not be easier to include concrete numbers in something like the Despair mechanics? For example: Based on the Thresholds, a Tier 3 Adherent has 28 Sanctus. Based on the Despair mechanics outlined, below 20% of their Sanctus would end up being anything below 5.6. Would someone just presumably round down to 5? Round up to 6? Deal with decimals instead? Would you guys change the Despair mechanics if this is an issue? Or the numbers of the Sanctus Thresholds so it breaks down into only whole numbers for stuff like that? Other than that, I still stand firm in my other beliefs from the original post. I think this would be a great way of fostering a better relationship (competitively) with Canonist or just human characters and groups that do fall into the narrative of holy vs. evil, dark against light, etc. Instead of just neglecting it or acting like it's not something embedded in the lore of the server too. It bridges a great gap, and if there are characters uninterested in the magic, then they don't need to take it up. That in itself could be an interesting narrative. Kudos to you both for cutting down massively on the spells as well, it continues to be digestible and seems to be a reasonable amount of spells. Re-flavoring the paths from the Exalted makes it more universal and adds onto the digestibility I think.

There, on a road by the Karoswood, a Leuven stood. Her hands mimicked the Hussaryian before a patch of fresh dirt, mumbling something within a northern tongue to appease superstition. Although, those mumbles died down upon hearing the caws of a particular crow. “Hmph,” the brunette took her arm to the air in response, her beloved Carrier Crow bearing the missive to her. There were no sounds save for the chilling winds and calls of birds beyond Mahaut’s reach. No words, as she would have to save them for paper and ink. Soon enough, her crow would ferry a message in response.

On the day Amari hung, Mahaut prayed for her, that her first girlhood friend would find peace. Almost every day after, she prayed to her. Between the saints that filled the pages of Mahaut’s books, the Leuven found solace in people she knew. She sought answers from people she loved. Amyas. Arianne. Her mother. Catherine. Kristoff. Amaya. Amari. Perhaps Mahaut will finally get an answer.

Mahaut bustled about New Valdev with arms chock-full of missives, supplies, and even a cloaked cage making clamorous cries. Such a busy and exciting week of preparation!

AN OPEN INVITATION TO LEARNING THE HONOR CROWS DANCE. Issued by the Deputy Grand Lady and Crow Warden of the Royal Court. c. 13th of Tov ag Yermey, 547 E.S. ㅤTo know the Crow’s dance, one must experience it. To master the Crow’s dance, one must practice it. Before Khovalafest, there will be an open lesson to learn the Honor Crows dance and thoroughly prepare for the occasion. It is not mandatory for anyone planning to partake in Khovalafest’s dance. However, it gives anyone a chance to know the dance’s history and its finer details. Listed below are the activities of the practice, taking place in Castle Lesanov’s outdoor ballroom. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ㅤTraditionally, to immerse dancers and observers in the crow-themed dance, dancers will don all kinds of fabrics and accessories to mimic the birds. There will be stations with supplies to let soon-to-be dancers craft their own special costumes to wear during the Honor Crows dance at practice and Khovalafest. It is most common to wear grays and blacks, but even mimicking the uncommon crows like the Golden-caped Crow or Blue-throated Crow is welcome. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ㅤOnce all or a majority of individuals complete their costumes, the dance practice starts. The Crow Warden will lead a demonstration for all learners and explain the rules behind the more playful side of the dance. There will be a couple of rounds for learners to try the dance themselves and understand its rules. The Noble, Mahaut Marie van Leuven, Deputy Grand Lady and Crow Warden.

A STUDY ON CROW-BASED SUPERSTITIONS AND OMENS, ALONG WITH OTHER CULTURAL INFLUENCES OF CROWS. Issued by the Crow Warden of the Royal Court. c. 15th of Jula ag Piov, 546 E.S. ㅤAs cryptic as the crow may be, the messages it brings to the good Haeseni are not always such. Through research of old records and accounts of the old and young, it is easy to find the warnings of crows and all their sway in our culture. This missive contains all discoveries regarding omens, superstitions, and miscellaneous findings. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ㅤSuperstition is a trust not in unknown forces of nature, but a trust in Godan’s ability to dissuade it in our lives and taking up his gracious methods of preventing ill fortune and impious influence onto his people. In the following sections are causes of good and bad luck alike, and ways to avoid or embrace them. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE MIGRATION OF CROWS AND EMPTY NESTS. ㅤAs the winters of the Haeseni regions come into full effect, some crows opt to migrate to unknown places further south, to avoid the biting cold and return with fledglings of their own. Their migrations leave many nests empty, though not without watch. Old Raev superstition warns folk that during these seasons crows go to pay homage to Gorm,[1] and he watches over their nests with his all-seeing eye as repayment. Thus, it is bad luck to interfere with a crow’s nest during migrations, but someone that doesn’t mess with them at all is better safe than sorry. [1] Haeseni Mythologie (Hanso-Raev Pantheon and Dulonian Folklore). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤPLUCKING FEATHERS. ㅤAside from their cultural significance, crows have a religious connection. They bore the messages of the old gods of myth and serve as messengers to Godan and his will to this day. Their feathers bear them in flight, to deliver omens onto humanity, Godan-fearing or not. Plucking a crow’s feathers is like depriving a smith of his hammer or a knight of his sword. It denies a crow its duty and, even worse, defies Godan. None should pluck a crow’s feathers unless they welcome bad luck. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤA CROW UPON THE ROAD. ㅤA single crow on the road would normally mean a sorrowful omen, although a dead crow upon the road is bad luck. Finding a dead crow upon a road means someone or something malicious has spit in the face of Godan, defying fate and his will. Old superstitions believe to ensure Godan does not blame a passerby, the passerby must immediately bury the crow and hold a prayer. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤBEARING SILVER AMONG CROWS. ㅤCrows are keen on taking things that pique their interest or do away with objects that bother them. Anything silver on a person is especially eye-catching for these blackened birds, and the attraction from silver brings both good and bad fortune. On one hand, a person can attract the sage guidance of crows and their warnings. On the other, a person could deprive another of their warnings or bring an ill fate unto themselves instead. To avoid such confusion, anyone with silver on their person should keep it stowed away from a crow’s view or leave it at home entirely. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤCROW EXCREMENT. ㅤIn Haeseni superstition, bird excrement brings good luck to those who come across it because of its relation to prosperity and abundance. Crow excrement is a stronger sign of prosperity than other kinds, more likely to attract said good luck.[1] This possibly comes from the days of relying solely on Gorm[2] and crows for auspicious harvests. For some, getting hit with crow excrement solidifies good fortune because of the rare chances it happens. [1] Haeseni Superstitions and Omens. Gregoryi Ostrovsky et al, 382 E.S. [2] Haeseni Mythologie (Hanso-Raev Pantheon and Dulonian Folklore). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤWISHING UPON A FEATHER. ㅤCrows are the most prevalent bird in Haense, meaning their feathers are in abundance when they molt. There is no ill fortune in finding these shed feathers, and instead, folk can use them to improve their own luck. Some can wish upon stars, dandelions, or send wishes away in bottles. Wishing upon a crow’s feather is just as effective. Superstition dictates that because of the crow’s connection to Godan, wishing on a feather and letting the wind take it will bring a person’s desires right to Godan. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤA CROW UPON THE WINDOWSILL. ㅤStarting as a Ruskan wives’ tale, folk believed houses should always have somewhere a crow can perch because a lone crow landing on the windowsill of a home is good luck, despite being a sorrowful omen. As messengers of Godan, crows ferry warnings and all kinds of messages, sometimes seen as coming straight from the Seven Skies. A crow coming to someone’s home means that it bears knowledge or connection to someone that knew the witness or lived in the home, too. It is a bittersweet sign that the witness has a deceased loved one, or multiple, watching over them. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ㅤThe messages of Godan do not always come from the tongue of man, but from the wings of crows. Crows are often the emissaries that bear Godan’s will, warning of equally prosperous and destitute events destined to occur. It is up to man after to accept his fate or defy it. In the following sections are omens recorded in Haeseni history, and ways to approach these fateful messages. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤSEVEN CROWS, SEVEN MEANINGS. ㅤCrows bear many omens, and sometimes they need more messengers to convey what awaits any Haeseni. Ostrovsky et al. are the first to go over a related rhyme: “One for sorrow, two for mirth, three for a wedding, and four for a birth. Five for silver, six for gold and seven for a secret untold.”[1] The amount of crows in a murder determines these outcomes. In larger gatherings of crows, some folk can count by sevens to determine deeper meanings. An example of this would be someone witnessing a dozen crows, meaning there is a secret untold about silver or achieving it; like hidden treasure. [1] Haeseni Superstitions and Omens. Gregoryi Ostrovsky et al, 382 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤA CROW IN FLIGHT. ㅤAs spoken about by Ostrovsky et al., even the direction in which crows fly bears good and bad omens. A crow that flies from the right to the left is a sign of good, while in contrast, a crow that flies from left-to-right reveals bad things to come to any witness.[1] In the past, standing in front of the Haeseni palace was the best spot to witness and decipher these portents.[1] However, in Aevos, more honest portents may come from observation in the Karoswood.[2] The city of New Valdev hosts many Carrier Crows, who may seek affection over giving genuine warnings to local Haeseni. [1] Haeseni Superstitions and Omens. Gregoryi Ostrovsky et al, 382 E.S. [2] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤCROWS AND MICE. ㅤCrows entrust all kinds of items onto folk, especially the Haeseni. Should any local find a crow dropping a dead mouse at their feet, it means they face one of the worst omens recorded: hellhounds search for them.[1] Whether this came into writing because of the Inferi blight on the old Haeseni or Raevir is irrelevant, as a witness to this omen must act fast. To escape infernal maws, the witness must bar themselves into a closed space and gilt every entrance or opening with the raw salt. The witness cannot leave their salted domain until a priest can expel the threat. Should someone run out of salt to maintain the space or find no priest to help them, leaving the room is out of the question and the Godan-fearing should turn to prayer.[1] [1] Myths & Legends: Crows. Author unnoted, year unnoted. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤOMENS UPON OMENS. ㅤOmens range in complexity, some being intensely specific and others rather vague. Godan-fearing folks steeped deeper in superstition than others foresee more precise portents by noting overlapping omens recorded in Haeseni history. An example would be someone witnessing three crows flying from the left to the right, meaning the witness will encounter a wedding that goes awry. Whether it would be the witness’ own wedding, or another’s, is for the witness to discover later along with why. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ❖ㅤTHE HONOR CROWS DANCE.ㅤ〣ㅤVE KAROSKAROSDANS. ㅤThe Honor Crows Dance[1] is just as the name entails. It is a reconstruction from written records and spoken accounts of old dances performed at the Haeseni Khovalafest.[2] The Honor Crows Dance calls back to the reverence Gorm[3] received from the pagan Haeseni in times of the harvest, especially when the harvest was in abundance. A great way of honoring the roots of Haense and the kingdom’s rich culture. ㅤThe dance involves sets of three, as homage to the three-eyed crow Gorm. As the sets of three dance along to an upbeat rhythm and try to prevent their trio from breaking apart, the participants don a myriad of crow-like clothes. They may wear black and gray fabrics, feathered circlets or cloaks, and even masks should any participant wish to. With dancers dressing as crows and circling about in their sets, it mimics the visual of a murder of crows. [1] Ve Haurlun I Dans. Svetlana vas Ruthern-Colborn et al, 543 E.S. [2] Haeseni Customs, Vol. 3: Haeseni Holidays. Amaya of Venzia et al, 503 E.S. [3] Haeseni Mythologie (Hanso-Raev Pantheon and Dulonian Folklore). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤSCARECROWS IN THE FIELDS. ㅤFor many Haeseni farmers, scarecrows turned the table on the meaningful bird of the nation. Scarecrows deterred the crows of past realms from many farmlands, ensuring that they did not eat the budding plants or impending harvest. These scarecrows always mimicked more human-like appearances, some believing that it was a way of telling crows that Gorm[1] blessed humanity with abundant food instead. For the few of old superstition, scarecrows ward off the ill plans of fate.[2] Without crows to bear the message, what were the chances it would come to pass? Only the sparse farmhands would know. [1] Haeseni Mythologie (Hanso-Raev Pantheon and Dulonian Folklore). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. [2] Myths & Legends: Crows. Author unnoted, year unnoted. The Noble, Mahaut Marie van Leuven, the Crow Warden.

Mahaut looked over the missive with a terse smile, content in knowing she’ll have a new niece and nephew to spoil soon enough.

Mahaut held her own copy of the missive in hand as she continued to pore over texts older than she. “Perhaps some new dance lessons are in order,” she spoke to no one in particular, although, it was a glimpse of withdrawn pride nonetheless.

Somewhere within the gardens of Krusev, Mahaut read the missive in between the babbling of children and birdsong. “A well-deserved break,” she murmured upon seeing the abdication, having distant yet fond memories of the stormy, once-Viscount. “Ea wish Nerida ve best of luck.” The van Leuven could tell the Rising Tide wouldn’t break easy. Meanwhile . . . Another Amador of blonde locks was elsewhere bound, before commenting to her husband, “Ja. Something small with Henrik and Emma could be a nice change of pace.”

A MAINLY OBSERVATION-BASED ESSAY OF ALL THE CROWS IN HAENSE. Issued by the Crow Warden of the Royal Court. c. 12th of Tov ag Yermey, 542 E.S. ㅤThe crow has been a vital symbol of the dual kingdom for centuries, graceful and enigmatic. As the newly made Crow Warden, it is my duty to shine a light upon these birds. We must better shape our understanding of them, to further cement them in the preservation of our culture and conservation of our realm. ㅤThis essay contains all discoveries made through extensive observation of crows in the regions, and review of past written records regarding crows in folklore and symbolism. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ❖ㅤTHE BLUE-THROATED CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE BLAUW-THROATED KAROS. ㅤA unique specimen of crow for its blue feathers, spotted at the neck while the rest of its plumage is black with a blue sheen. It is also the only other species of crow with blue eyes in Haense. The rest have brown or black-like eyes. Blue-throated Crows also seem to value community more, congregating by the dozens even outside mating seasons. Sticking to groups of that size makes it easy to ward off predators, frequently mobbing larger birds and creatures foolish enough to get near their nests. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Gates of Muldav[1] and its northern edges. ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, inclined to eating grain, insects and remnants of compost if they’re closer to an urban area. [1] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE CARRIER CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE CARRIER KAROS. ㅤThe most common species of crow in Haense with unique behaviors. Unlike many crows, this species is incredibly sociable, showing no aversion to other species of birds, and friendliness with other species of crow and even people. If accepted, Carrier Crows will nest near other species or in the awnings of buildings and other high and hard to reach places of cities and towns. They also steal objects from people and places for their nests or to give to passersby, thus earning their namesake. These particular crows could be descendants of a different species or two that were domesticated to carry letters for diplomatic and emblematic purposes. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Karoswood[1] and highly populated areas with people. ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, eating insects, fruits, and vegetables. [1] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE CARRION CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE CARRION KAROS. ㅤThe second most common species of crow within Haense, and the second most territorial crow, carrying an ancient legacy upon its back, unlike the rest. Carrion Crows have an undeniable connection to the bygone House Karovic,[1] better known as House Carrion.[1] Carrion Crows match the depiction of the old Karovic crest and its surviving cadet branches that bear the crow. Whether the family took its name from the bird is unknown, but Carrion Crows exhibit a boldness and resilience similar to their human counterparts. They have survived realm after realm with the likely conservation of Highlander tribes and nations. This could mark them as an invasive species as they are not from Aevos, however their presence in the realm does not pose any serious struggle for other crows and their survival, so it is a debatable label. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Gates of Muldav,[2] the Karoswood,[2] and the Verelund.[2] ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, yet shows carnivorous tendencies. They eat carrion, insects, and seeds. [1] The Ancient Bloodlines of the Crow. Lynch Ivanovich, 152 E.S. [2] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE CROTHSTAD CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE CROTHSTAD KAROS. ㅤArguably the most fearsome and territorial crow to nest in Haeseni land. The Crothstad Crow bears its name for being one of many creatures that live within the Crothstad Woodlands[1] and displays the common traits of Crothstad’s fauna. It is an unflinching bird, showing no fear of humans or other animals, including different species of crow. Its fearless nature, paired with its need to protect its home, makes the crow dangerous for observation and domestication. ㅤThe Crothstad Crow is the biggest of all Haeseni crows, twice their size and coming closer to the form of southern condors. Their beak is larger and thicker, likely to dig into bigger prey or even predators. They still maintain the classic black plumage and dark eyes of most crows, though. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Westerwald,[1] most common in the Crothstad Woods.[1] ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, possibly, but has only shown a carnivorous diet in observation. They eat carrion, insects, and eggs. [1] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE GOLDEN-CAPED CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE ARANY-CAPED KAROS. ㅤA special specimen of crow for its rare, golden plumage and shrouded history. No other crows exhibit colorful plumage except the Blue-throated Crow, so it is possible these two crows may share blood with other birds, albeit distant. Golden-caped Crows may have an older history, akin to Carrion Crows, as an unnoted scholar recorded the species once in the past. It is possible that people ferried Golden-caped Crows between realms and continents for astrological and cultural purposes since its only mention prior is in a paper about the Sigmundic Calendar and Haeseni Zodiac.[1] This could make the Golden-caped Crow an invasive species as well, but their exclusivity to the southern Haeseni regions poses no concern for other crows yet. ㅤIts body is almost uniform with black feathers, the exception being its yellow feathers from the crown of its head to its back. The iridescence of crow feathers gives a fully golden look to the Golden-Caped Crow. Its form is bigger than the Carrion Crow, yet slender. Its beak has a downward curve to it as well. ㅤNATIVE TO: The southeastern parts of the Karoswood[1] and the Vander Falls.[2] ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, eating insects, berries, roots and grain. [1] Sigmundic Calendar and Haeseni Zodiac. Author unnoted, year unnoted. [2] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE JARDANIAN CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE JARDANIAN KAROS. ㅤAnother species of crow with a distinctive appearance and playful behaviors. The Jardanian Crow gets its name from Haeseni mythology, after The Northern Wind, Jardani.[1] These crows have a pattern of flying higher and longer in the sky than most crows, using the winds swooping down from the Kareninas[1] and into the Aestmarch region to help them fly and glide. They may do this not only to assess sources of food better, but also to play with one another. Sometimes, they fly in groups of two to four crows at a time while the winds are strong, taking dives at one another. None of these abrupt movements ever cause a collision or fight in observation. ㅤThe Jardanian Crow has a slightly alarming appearance for new witnesses, as they lack a lot of color compared to other crows. Their wings are black, while their bodies are gray, but their faces and feet are pink. It looks like the winds blew the color right off them, but this might be a past development in the birds that is no longer beneficial to them. ㅤNATIVE TO: The edges of the Kareninas[2] and the Aestmarch. ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, eating fruits, seeds, carrion, and smaller animals such as rodents. [1] Haeseni Mythologie (Hanso-Raev Pantheon and Dulonian Folklore). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. [2] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE KARENINAN CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE KARENINAN KAROS. ㅤThe most well-adapted species of crow to their respective region. The Kareninan Crow gets its name from its habitat and its resemblance to said habitat. Their feathers mimic the mountains, making it easier for them to blend in and conceal themselves from prey and predators alike. The most fascinating part about the Kareninan Crow is their additional eyelid beneath the primary two. It is the only crow to exhibit this trait, even if it is common among other animals such as horses and cats. This is ultimately useful for the crow, as it can protect their eyes from the weather of the mountains and snow glare. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Kareninas.[1] ㅤPRONE TO: Diet: An omnivorous diet with carnivorous tendencies, feeding mainly on carrion, eggs, nuts, and smaller animals; smaller birds and rodents. [1] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┫ ❖ㅤTHE VANDER CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE VANDER KAROS. ㅤA more courageous crow than most with distinct coloration. The Vander Crow gets its name from its exclusive sighting in the south of Haense, faring better in warmer climates than most crows. They are adept hunters in Vander’s waters, a skill many crows lack. Time and time again, in observation, they display their boldness and precision by scaling and swooping down the Vander Falls[1] to catch some of their prey. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Vander Falls.[1] ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, often eating fish, frogs, seeds and fruit. [1] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE VIBBENSZIAN CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE VIBBENSZIAN KAROS. ㅤThe only recorded crow in the Aestmarch thus far with reclusive behavior. Vibbenszian Crows are named after the Vibbenszi[1] from Haeseni mythology, the Guardians of the Rivers who keep the waters clean. The Vibbenszian Crow commonly flies over rivers and picks their food from them, seen removing rubbish too if it is useful for nests or a meal. When they are not scouring the rivers or other small bodies of water, they take cover in the highest branches of trees in the region. This crow shows an aversion to people and most animals, the exception being prey. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Aestmarch. ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, inclined to eat fish, shellfish, carrion, and rubbish. [1] Haeseni Mythologie (Hanso-Raev Pantheon and Dulonian Folklore). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE WHITE-WINGED CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE LICHTE-WINGED KAROS. ㅤAnother crow well-adapted to their region while keeping very sociable behaviors. The White-winged Crow gets its namesake from their appearance, bearing white wings and a black body. They have a connection to the Kareninan Crow, sharing the same additional eyelid to protect their eyes in the mountains. Unlike their kin, however, the White-winged Crow is very playful with its own kind and humans. A highlight of this nature was observing the crows burying themselves in the snow, only to pop back up again and surprise others. They also dive into the snow beak first, reminiscent of foxes, and may use it to hunt. It is harder for them to find food in the region because of terrain, weather, and competing animals. Searching beneath the snow and piercing possible burrows would be for the species’ advantage. ㅤNATIVE TO: The Kareninas.[1] ㅤPRONE TO: An omnivorous diet, akin to the Kareninan Crow. They eat carrion, eggs, nuts, and smaller animals if food is scarce. [1] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ╠════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ ❖ㅤTHE ALBINO CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE ALBINO KAROS. ㅤAn albino crow, or a white crow, is an omen in itself. Their feathers are fully white, while their beaks and talons are pinkish. Its eyes are always light, sometimes a red or lavender-like color. Its appearance is reminiscent of other albino animals in Haense’s regions, such as the Tahala Stag.[1] The presence of an albino crow signifies an oncoming change for its witness, be it some kind of growth of moral or unveiling spiritual ideals to the mortal mind. It is more common in literature and other arts than nature, thus treated as mythical. ㅤThe most notable display of a white crow in Haense would be on the crest of Morovar, taking flight upon their standard. [1] Haeseni Hunts. Richard Kortrevich, 535 E.S. ┣───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┫ ❖ㅤTHE THREE-EYED CROW.ㅤ〣ㅤVE DRES-EYED KAROS. ㅤThe Three-Eyed Crow is a sacred symbol within Haense for its cultural and historical significance. It is of divine origins, the earliest depiction of the crow being the sage-god Gorm.[1] Using the Three-Eyed Crow in any literature invokes themes of divine wisdom and all-knowing nature, such as Gorm’s oversight on the brothers Kolvyk and Rovyk in their claims to the Almannir throne.[2] ㅤBeyond the stories of eld and new, the Three-Eyed Crow has a strong link to agriculture. It is possible this comes from Gorm’s intrinsic connection to the Karovic and being a mover of fields and mountains in his most famous story with the Half-Brother Twins.[2] His connection to agriculture and its harvesting caused past peoples to invoke Gorm for bountiful and healthy harvests. In modern Haeseni culture, people still show some reverence to Gorm through their celebrations, such as Khovalafest.[3] [1] Haeseni Mythologie (Hanso-Raev Pantheon and Dulonian Folklore). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. [2] Kolvyk and Rovyk, the Half-Brother Twins (Waldenian Etiological Myth). Otto the Tarcharman, year unnoted. [3] Haeseni Customs, Vol. 3: Haeseni Holidays. Amaya of Venzia et al, 503 E.S. Firress Mahaut Marie van Leuven, the Crow Warden.

Mahaut was already scouring Aevos to find the perfect gift for Sifrá’s nameday!

The van Leuven invitation wormed its way into Mahaut’s possession after enough searching. “Oh, Eam so happy for them!” There was a beaming smile on the girl’s face before shock took hold. “Oh GODAN, what do Ea even get as a wedding gift?”

if violet has a million fans, i'm one of them, if violet has five fans, i'm one of them, if violet has one fan, that one is me, if violet has no fans, i'm no longer alive. if the world is against violet i'm against the entire world