Cubicita

Helaine stills as the words reach her, as though the world itself has forgotten how to move. For a fleeting moment, she does not understand them and perhaps simply cannot understand them. Her gaze lingers upon the messenger, searching his face for some crack in the truth, some sign of error, of jest, of anything but this. “No…” The word leaves her lips as little more than breath, fragile and disbelieving. Her hands tremble where they rest, her fingers curling tightly into the fabric of her skirts as if grounding herself might undo what has been said. George... her George... was not meant to fall to silence. Though he brought much pain into her days, he also brought certainty. Their marriage had not been one of love. Not truly. It had been duty, respect, expectation...two lives bound together by necessity rather than longing. He had been kind, in his way. Steady. Dependable. And she had honored him for it. But her heart had never quite belonged to him… and she had always known it. A breath leaves her then, softer this time. “You’re certain…?” she asks, her voice wavering, though not in denial alone. There is a strange calm beneath it, an understanding she cannot quite name. He is gone. A soft, broken breath escapes her, and she brings a trembling hand to her mouth, not to stifle grief entirely, but to hold together the flood of feelings that were surfacing.. Memories were brought to life only then..His laughter, the dreadful pompous attitude, the quiet moments they belonged only to them. Though they ache, these memories bring the faintest, bittersweet smile to her lips. “May he find the peace he was owed.” But as she turns away, there is a faint, almost imperceptible breath that escapes her. It was not quite relief, not quite sorrow, but something in between. And for the first time in a long while, Helaine Aldersberg feels the weight of her life shift… into something that might, at last, belong to her. Yet as the quiet settles around her, another thought creeps in. This one is slower, heavier. Time, once abundant, now feels terribly finite. She has lived so many years bound by duty, by expectation, by a marriage that never quite held her heart… and now, at the nearing end of her life, she cannot help but wonder what has been lost to it. Had she wasted her chance? The question lingers within her head alone. Love. True love. . . had always felt just beyond her reach, something glimpsed and perhaps tasted and yet never fully developed.. And now, with age weighing upon her and the years ahead uncertain, she feels the sharp, aching fear that she may never know it at all. Her hand presses lightly to her chest, not in grief alone, but in longing. “Will there be time…?” she whispers to no one. And as that thought settles, her mind drifts elsewhere to somewhere warmer, gentler. To her daughter. A faint breath leaves her, almost a sigh. "Constantina..." The name rests on her lips with a tenderness she does not often allow herself. There, perhaps, she might find comfort. Familiarity. Something untouched by the years of quiet longing she has carried. Yes… she will go to her. For now, that is enough.

y the Grace of Almighty God, and with the willing assent and blessing of the noble Houses herein named, let it be proclaimed and made known throughout the realm: That His Lordship, Leonhardt of House Aldersberg, the second-born of the Earl of Dover, and Her Ladyship, Mallory of House Helvets, a cherished daughter, by the calling of their hearts and the guidance of divine providence, chosen one another to be joined in holy matrimony. Not by arrangement nor by obligation was this union formed, but through sincere affection, steadfast devotion, and a love proven in quiet constancy. In choosing one another freely, they affirm a bond wrought not of duty alone, but of mutual devotion and shared purpose. This blessed marriage shall be held within the hallowed walls of the Cathedral of the Fifty Skulls, where, before Almighty God and under sacred tradition, their vows shall be exchanged and their union sanctified for all their days. I T I N E R A R Y The wedding observances shall proceed as follows: I. THE GATHERING OF WITNESSES The observances of the day shall begin within the consecrated halls of the Cathedral of the Fifty Skulls, where the bride and groom shall present themselves before Almighty God to declare their vows of love and lifelong union. II. THE LOVER’S FEAST Upon the conclusion of the ceremony, all invited guests are graciously welcomed to a reception held in honor of the joining households. Through shared feasting, music, and good fellowship, the newly wedded pair shall be celebrated and received with warmth, and goodwill.

the will of Almighty God, and with the expressed consent and blessing of the noble Houses herein set forth, let this declaration be carried throughout the realm: Be it known that Her Ladyship, Constantina of House Aldersberg, daughter of a venerable and enduring Earldom, and His Lordship, Duncan Baruch, a lord of honorable lineage and steadfast repute, have freely and solemnly resolved to be joined together in holy matrimony. Let all recall that these two were bound in formal betrothal for many years, a covenant observed with constancy and good faith, now brought to its ordained conclusion through the sacrament of marriage. This sacred union shall be held within the Cathedral of the Fifty Skills, where before God and gathered witnesses their vows shall be spoken, and their bond consecrated. I T I N E R A R Y The wedding observances shall proceed as follows: I. THE COVENING OF THE FAITHFUL The day shall commence within the consecrated halls of the Cathedral of the Fifty Skulls, where Her Ladyship Constantina of House Aldersberg and His Lordship Duncan Baruch shall present themselves before Almighty God. Clergy, kindred, and honored witnesses shall be gathered in reverent attendance as the sacred rite is prepared. II. THE NEWLYWED' S BANQUET Upon the sealing of this union, all invited nobles and guests shall be received at a formal feast held in the honor of the now joined houses. Through banquet, music, and courtly fellowship, the union shall be celebrated.

y the Grace of the Almighty God, and with the full assent and blessings of the noble Houses herein named, let it be proclaimed and made known throughout the realm: That Her Ladyship, Clementine Alina of House Aldersberg, born of a well respected and steadfast Earldom, and His Lordship, Siegfried Otto of House Barclay, Baron of scion of a house long honored for its loyalty and strength, have resolved to join their lives in holy matrimony. Let it be remembered that the two nobles were joined in solemn betrothal these past four years, a pledge steadfastly maintained, now brought to its rightful fulfilment through the sacrament of marriage. The marriage shall take place within the Cathedral of the Fifty Skulls, where the vows of matrimony will be exchanged before God, sanctifying the union under divine witness and sacred tradition. I T I N E R A R Y The wedding observances shall proceed as follows: I. THE GATHERING OF WITNESSES The day shall begin within the hallowed walls of the Cathedral of the Fifty Skulls, where Clementine of House Aldersberg and Siegfried of House Barclay shall exchange their solemn vows before Almighty God. This holy sacrament shall be observed according to sacred law, witnessed by clergy, kin, and honored guests, and sealed in prayer and blessing. II. THE BINDING OF VOWS Clementine Aldersberg and Siegfried Barclay shall enter in turn, each accompanied by chosen kin. Before the altar, words of union shall be spoken—vows exchanged in the presence of witnesses and sanctified by ancient rite. Rings shall be bestowed, and the bond sealed with declaration and blessing. III. THE FEAST OF UNION Thereafter, all invited guests are warmly welcomed to attend a reception held in celebration of the joining of House Aldersberg and House Barclay. Through feasting, music, and fellowship, the union shall be honored and the couple received with joy and goodwill.

Caecilius Mareno; dear cousin to the Bride-to-be, found it rather unfortunate that he did not recieve a proper personal invitation.

Helaine- the mother of the bride, prepared anxiously. Much was meant to be arranged for her youngest daughter and her soon-to-be son in-law. "Soon, all of our children shall be wedded off... and then it is just us, George." @DuhPuhWuh

The Aunt of the Bride, Helaine Elizabeth, prepared joyfully for this long awaited occasion. "Finally, Theodora is to be wed. I must prepare the wondrous gifts in her honor!"

The Countess of Dover, Helaine Elizabeth, beamed with pride and excitement over the future of House Aldersberg.

woo woo!

Helaine, Countess of Dover, pinched the crisp edges of the missive. A sly smirk soon arose from her painted lips. "Finally." The Doverian hummed, reading the contents carefully. "May justice come swiftly... and may peace be brought to my household once more." - "I should reach out to Madelief." Soon thereafter, Helaine brushed her gown, venturing to the aviary with haste.

Helaine grinned from ear to ear "Her Imperial Highness has done well.."

UNDERLINE?!

One of the professors, Helaine Aldersberg, begin to prepare her lessons for ettiquite. She had pondered within the walls of Newcastle on how she'd prepare her students accordingly. "Perhaps my own children should take classes.." @Iverach @Cheese @MunaZaldrizoti @Lalosia

Issued by the Earldom of Dover On the 11th of the Grand Harvest, 2038 N the quiet months following the last harvest, as frost crept along the stone corridors of Newcastle, Lady Helaine of Dover walked the candlelit halls of her home in deep reflection. With her children growing and the weight of her station ever present, she considered not only her duty to her own House, but to the future of the entire Archduchy. It was in this spirit of wisdom and stewardship that Lady Helaine resolved to extend her hand in guardianship to three young women of great promise, each in need of guidance, structure, and a home in which they might flourish. And so, it is proclaimed: That Lady Helaine of Dover, matriarch of House Aldersberg and wife to the Earl of Dover, has formally taken in three wards, to be nurtured and taught etiquette within the walls of Newcastle. These names are now within the Countess’ care: LADY LUCIENNEC CONSTANCE of HOUSE DEVEREUX @Apotolofo a rose of courtly breeding, full of wit and grace, whose charm and ambition hint at a future as bright as her House’s reputation. LADY THEODORA ROSALIND of HOUSE HELVETS @Kabaffahp Daughter of the Countess’ elder brother, she is a bright spirit with a heart full of curiosity. Her laughter breathes warmth into the halls of Newcastle, and her boundless energy hints at a future shaped by passion and possibility. MISS CASSANDRA @Verellia born beyond noble station, yet possessed of sharp intellect and unyielding loyalty to Helaine. She is a gem yet unpolished, but no less worthy of a place among greatness. As their first assignment within their new life at Newcastle, the young wards have been tasked with the organization and hosting of a picnic, a gathering to which sons and daughters of noble lineage shall be invited to attend. This event shall serve not only as an introduction to the Countess’ daily courtly social affairs, but as a test of their initiative, elegance, and understanding of etiquette. Under Helaine’s watchful eye, they shall learn that every detail speaks to a lady’s character. I T I N E R A R Y The festivities shall run as following: Arrival and Greetings Over Tea Upon arrival, the young guests shall be welcomed by the hosts and servantry of Newcastle with a selection of herbal teas and other refreshing drinks. The guest may take this time to acquaint themselves with one another and delight in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding fauna. Artistry in Porcelain With fine porcelain teacups provided by the hosts, each child shall be invited to express their creativity through painting. Brushes, pigments and all manner of decoration will be made available. Whether crafting a keepsake for their own tea table or a token of affection for a beloved friend or kin this activity is meant to celebrate both imagination and refinement. Luncheon on the Lawn While their artwork is carefully set aside to dry, guests shall be served a light luncheon provided by the courteous staff of Newcastle. An assortment of sandwiches, fruit and sweet confections will be offered. Lady Helaine introducing her three wards, 2038 I N V I T A T I O N S His Imperial Majesty, Tiberias Horen, of Burgundy, and his Imperial Household His Highest Majesty, Tar-Anorhil Carandin Arthalion, of Idunia, his Kingly Household & Noble Subjects His Princely Highness, Coenraed van Aert, and his Princely Household His Princely Highness, Erwin Barclay, his Princely Household & Noble Subjects His Princely Highness, Philipp Keen, his Princely Household & Noble Subjects His Grace, Allerick Rostova, and his Ducal Household His Grace, Duncan Baruch, and his Ducal Household His Highness, Roger de Rouen, and his Archducal Household The Most Honourable, Konstantin von Augusten, and his Noble Household The Right Honourable, Elis Amaury, and her Noble Household The Right Honourable, Peter Rovare, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Istvan Ivanovich, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Josef Galahar, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Asturas Whitewood, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Gaspard Winburgh, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Leonid Othaman, and his Noble Household Personal Invitations are sent to the following Their Royal Highnesses, Cecily and Edward Alstion Their Highnesses, Edward and Jane Alstion Her Highness, Elizabeth Alstion Their Princely Highnesses, Madelief and Cassius Mareno Her Highness, Heilwig Keen Her Excellency, Constance Devereux, and her Noble Household His Lordship, Leopold Helvets, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Charles Halcourt, and his Noble Household Her Ladyship, Adelaide Halcourt, and Faustin de Bruges His Lordship, Adonis Rovare Her Ladyship, Lucrezia Rovare Her Ladyship, Mirabella Rostova Her Ladyship, Selyne Amador His Lordship, Heinrik Ludovar Her Ladyship, Magdalena Valkonen Miss, Esther Mister, Gedeon Mister, Ivan Carrion Mister, Aviel Helfgott Mister, Callahan To ensure a peaceful gathering, guards shall be stationed throughout the grounds. Their presence is solely to safeguard the will being of our young guest, allowing them to enjoy the day’s delights with ease. S I G N E D, HER LADYSHIP, Helaine Elizabeth Aldersberg, Lady Seneschal of the Morvelyn, Countess of Dover

Helaine realized she was missing a household, therefore made sure to send them a personal invitation and a box of sweet treats.

The Lady of Newcastle, Helaine Elizabeth, concluded penning her invitations, instructing her personal servant to deliver them with haste. "And we shall, George. Thou shall not worry." Helaine uttered, though anxiously rushed off to complete preparations for the festivities. Seamstresses fluttered the halls, measuring the children for their new garments. "These gowns shall look simply lovely on the girls." @MunaZaldrizoti@cheese_grater@Lalosia

Issued by the Earldom of Dover On the 4th of the OWYN’S FLAME, 2037 N the dim solitude of Newcastle, where the sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows, Helaine Aldersberg sat with her youngest babe within her arms. Her digits toiled absentmindedly with the embroidered edge of her daughter’s wrap as she gazed out onto the estate forestry below, where the roses had begun to bloom. Newcastle was at an unusual peace and yet her mind stirred with restless energy. It was nearly upon them: another anniversary of her marriage to the Earl of Dover. Seven years of union tested through sorrows and triumphs. Such a milestone could not pass with a simple feast. And yet, she had yet to settle upon anything worthy. Helaine had considered a rather large hunting excursion, but the idea seemed too brutish for her husband’s mannerism. A private picnic with the children? Too simple. Her brows furrowed, her lips pursed, and she slowly rose, pacing the floor in slow turns. She sought for something grander. Something that would be worthy of the years she survived- or they have survived together. The recent trials of their marriage, the joy brought upon the couple from their children, the passing of the Late Earl of Dover. Helaine knew it must be an occasion where every heart would be lifted. Not just for George, but for them both. She paused before the fireplace, resting her palm lightly upon the mantle. Above such hung their portrait: she, in gold, her smile calm yet proud, and George rested upon her shoulder. Then, the thought blossomed. A ball. Not merely a simple ball. She shall name it. . . Oaths and Opulence. She kicked her heel forth, her steps now decisive. Quills would need to be prepared. Invitations penned. Seamstresses summoned. Their kitchen must be informed and the servantry briefed. And George? Helaine hoped upon stepping into the hall on that evening and seeing the festivities she’d have prepared in his honor, her husband would know without question the depth of her devotion. I T I N E R A R Y The festivities shall run as following: THE UNVEILING OF THE NIGHT Upon the arrival of the noble guests, they shall be urged into the main hall moments earlier than the beginning of festivities. Helaine Aldersberg shall be accompanied by her husband; The Earl of Dover, to proceed within the estate. Words will be brought upon by the Countess of Dover in consideration of her husband. Shortly after, the couple shall share the floor in a custom courtly dance, followed by the couples of highest rank. THE FIRST MEASURE With the first dance concluded and the floor open once more, the remaining courtiers are graciously invited to come forth. The musicians shall strike up a lively tune, and Newcastle’s Great Hall will begin to stir with motion. THE EMBERED OVERTURE As the final steps of the evening’s dances fade into memory, the hall is gently hushed. A bell tolls will ring once. Clear and Ceremonial to signal that the time has come to turn eyes skyward. Courtiers are then escorted to the balcony. There, beneath the midnight sky, a roar shall toss away the silence and colors shall decorate the sky in a beautiful arrangement. Nobles from the Empire of Man arriving to the Archduchy of Alba , 2039 Guests are requested to attire themselves in their finest regalia, garments that shimmer like jewels and reflect the splendor of the evening. I N V I T A T I O N S His Imperial Majesty, Tiberias Horen, of Burgundy, and his Imperial Household His Highest Majesty, Tar-Anorhil Carandin Arthalion, of Idunia, his Kingly Household & Noble Subjects His Princely Highness, Coenraed van Aert, and his Princely Household His Princely Highness, Erwin Barclay, his Princely Household & Noble Subjects His Princely Highness, Henrik Keen, his Princely Household & Noble Subjects His Grace, Allerick Rostova, and his Ducal Household His Grace, Duncan Baruch, and his Ducal Household His Highness, Roger de Rouen, and his Archducal Household The Most Honourable, Konstantin von Augusten, and his Noble Household The Right Honourable, Elis Amaury, and her Noble Household The Right Honourable, Peter Rovare, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Istvan Ivanovich, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Josef Galahar, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Asturas Whitewood, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Gaspard Winburgh, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Leonid Othaman, and his Noble Household Personal Invitations are sent to the following Their Royal Highnesses, Cecily and Edward Alstion Their Highnesses, Edward and Jane Alstion Her Highness, Elizabeth Alstion Their Princely Highnesses, Madelief and Cassius Mareno Her Excellency, Constance Devereux, and her Noble Household His Lordship, Leopold Helvets, and his Noble Household His Lordship, Charles Halcourt, and his Noble Household Her Ladyship, Adelaide Halcourt, and Faustin de Bruges His Grace, Sigmund Ludovar and his Noble Household S I G N E D, HIS EXCELLENCY, George Arthur Aldersberg, Lord Chancellor of Alba, 2nd Earl of Dover HER LADYSHIP, Helaine Elizabeth Aldersberg, Lady Seneschal of the Morvelyn, Countess of Dover

The mother, Helaine, sluggishly wobbled through the halls of the estate. The pain rather intensified from times prior. She'd venture to the nursery to look upon all her children whilst they rested. "Susanna shall be the last." The Countess uttered, her tone falling cold. "Rest well, little ones. Thou are loved." She'd soon depart from the quarters to her own. Her bed would be empty and cold that evening.

Issued by the Earldom of Dover On the 10th of Sun’s Smile, 2036 ARK! Let it be known that House Aldersberg now seek loyal servants to enter into honorable servantry within the walls of Newcastle. Those whom are chosen by the Earl of Dover and his loving wife shall be tasked with tending and watching over their children; the future of this prestigious household. Prospective servants shall be expected to uphold the honor, discretion, and dignity of House Aldersberg at all times. Fair lodgings, daily bread, modest coin, and the protection of noble law shall be granted to those who prove loyal in service. The Lady Helaine Aldersberg and servantry, 2035 S I G N E D, HIS LORDSHIP, George Arthur Aldersberg, Acting Lord Chancellor of Alba, 2nd Earl of Dover HER LADYSHIP, Helaine Elizabeth Aldersberg, Lady Seneschal of the Morvelyn, Countess of Dover

The Bride-to-be Helaine Elizabeth Helvets rubbed the parchment alongside her digits, taking notice of all those her and her betrothed chose to invite. The Helvets soon then surrounded herself with servants, beginning to make arrangements for the upcoming ceremony. "There shall be many eyes upon me that eve. . . I shall need to acquire a seamstress and prepare a list for my entourage." Though her chin remained high, an overwhelming suppression weighed heavily upon her stomach, yearning for the union to take place.

Helaine Elizabeth Helvets sought to take the missive from the servant's grasp, eager to open and read the belongings. Whilst enjoying the contents of the letter, the young Helvets kicked her heel forth, pacing across the Estate's dining hall. "Madelief finally announced her ceremony!" She'd announce throughout the Helvets Estate, quickly venturing to her sisters' quarters. With a quick tap of her index digit, Helaine urged them outside. "Prepare thyself for the wedding!" @Alexi_ @annabanana1014 @Komnena_ @Mamimiux