The Esrova Court

Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 12th day of Tov ag Yermey of 441 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, In light of the recent cultural celebrations taking place across the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, Firras Viorica Barrow, under the guise of her father, Grand Lord Mikhail var Ruthern, has deemed it fit to host a beer festival to properly honour her Waldenian lineage and uphold the long-lost traditions of the Mondblume family that her late grandfather hailed from. Both the common and noble classes are encouraged to attend, though the common families are especially encouraged to attend and will take priority in the stall reservation queue, as per the Barrow’s request. I. THE MARKET FESTIVAL The square of Karosgrad will be occupied by various stalls selling various food or drink to commemorate the cultural occasion. Attendees will be permitted to browse the various stalls and mingle within the heart of the city. Fortune telling, of course, will be provided by the hostess Viorica herself at a separate stall. Games will also be stationed around the square for those to partake in should they be too young to drink. II. A BOUT OF COMPETITIVE DRINKING Festival attendees will be directed towards the drinking competition where individuals will challenge the hardest liquors the festival has to offer. The winner of the competition shall receive a prize sum of 100 mina. III. THE CROW DANCE After guests have had their fill of beer and sweets alike, the night will end on a jubilant note where attendees will gather in the square to engage in a traditional dance: the crow dance, in which partners will partake in an upbeat polka step with the guidance of Firras Viorica Barrow. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. His Excellency, Mikhail Tuvya var Ruthern, Grand Lord of the Morrivi Court, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South Her Ladyship, Maeve Isobel Morovar, Court Chamberlain of Hanseti-Ruska, Baroness-Consort of Ghastenwald Firras Viorica Irena Barrow, Ward of the Queen’s Council

First published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe 7th of Vzmey ag Hyff,441 E.S. Royal Headdress Collection Portrait of Princess Royal Katerina donning The Barbanov Diadem Moda i ve Kort has served dutifully under the prior rule of Koenas Emma, and shall continue to provide insight on Courtly fashion. Since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan wear, the devoted Mistress of the Wardrobe is obliged to continue her service under the household of Koenas Amadea. To build upon legacies and provide regulation of fashion standards is a great honour. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: The Royal Regalia Headwear Collection. This compendium shall henceforth be updated when the Queen’s Council sees fit with the creation, abeyance, and reintroduction of various jewels of the Royal House Barbanov-Bihar. In tandem with the addition of new and reintroduced jewels into the household’s regular regalia, with each passing of jewels via marriage, death, etc., footnotes shall be updated posthaste. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Crowns ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Biharian Crown and Coronation Cap King Siguine I had a new crown commissioned following the conflict of return of the body of King Franz II following his death. It featured a considerably more modern design, including a double-arched cross-mantle adorning the top. It maintains a circlet base, though it is lined with pearls. It is encrusted with a large ruby and forty-two sapphires and diamonds. In the stead of a mitre is an elaborate Jrentic lily design forming into two-halves around the double-arches. A red velvet cap that is worn underneath the crown. In Haeseni regalia, the coronation cap is given after the baptism and anointing of the sovereign, in preparation for the coronation itself. *Reserved for Coronations. Boyar’s Cap The traditional crown of the Karovic dynasty, featuring a large ermine collar and four arches to make a clean, dome shape. Jewels of tourmalines and emeralds adorn the golden struts themselves, and at the peak is adorned an ivory Husariyan cross. The current crown is believed to have been made by Branimar the Leper, a former Raevir king, and with it carries the curse of his leprosy. Those who were to be crowned with the cap and found unworthy by Godan, according to legend, would be themselves cursed to be a leper. *Reserved for Coronations. Crown of the Hanseti Consort The Consort crown maintains a prominent Jrenic lily top, with the base made of gold. The circlet base has two lines of pearls, numbering one hundred in total. Upon the top sits a small, ruby cross. The crown was originally commissioned by Valera of Adria and modeled in part after the crown of Queen Reza Elizaveta. It has been passed down each generation of Haeseni Queen-Consorts since. Following the reign of Queen Annika of Astfield, alongside her King-Husband, Heinrik II, and the rise of Queen Emma of Jerovitz and her King-Husband, Sigismund III the crown was fitted for a permanent veil to further display the piety of the Queen and subsequently the Royal Family as a whole. *Worn only by the current reigning Queen of Hanseti-Ruska. Ve Asserala Ezstrejhn Crown The Summer Star features a common coronation design, including the double-arched cross-mantle adorning the top, connecting together with pearls. The base of the crown is a circlet lined with eighty-four pearls from Lake Varon. Inset into the circlet are three types of gemstones that have been meticulously placed in order to symbolically represent the strength and duty of the Haeseni Consort. Underneath a black velvet cap is attached, embodying the Queen’s closeness to GOD. The Gemstones; The centrepiece is the ‘Opkomende Zon’ ruby, which is known as the stone of royalty. Haeseni folklore states that rubies open the heart of whoever is wearing one, bringing forth love and vitality. Secondly, a sapphire, named ‘Ve Blauwe Wateren’ which represents prayer and connection to faith. Lastly, the ‘Aarden’ emerald, which is known to bring about self-knowledge and increase the likelihood of bearing healthy children. *Reserved for Coronations. The Amayan Bridal Crown This crown was inspired by the traditional Scyfling bridal crown donned by young women on their days of matrimony. High peaks of golden spirals were bound by more intricate design around the whole rotation of the regalia, symbolizing the beginning of new life and family under the beautiful union of wedlock. No gemstones were pivoted in the upper-parts of the regalia but rather the band which rested against the scalp itself; a variant of rubies, garnet, crimson spinel, and scarlet topaz lined the border; all in various cuts and sizes ranging from 1-carat to 6-carat, allowing for an onslaught of red to embrace the romantic piece. Typically, to further address the cultural importance of this crown, it is accompanied with an authentic and real flower crown to compliment the historical roots of its relevance. This one was specifically created for Amaya of Venzia, as she donned it paired with a flower crown made up of a multitude of roses from her familial gardens. *Reserved for Queen-consort Amaya of Venzia. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Circlets ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Crown of St Francis the Martyr A crown made in the fashion of the crown worn by Franz-Jakob during his short rule, commissioned under the regency of Marius I for his coronation, which later became the favoured crown of state leading up to the ascension of House Bihar. It is made of an engraved golden circlet mounted with Jrentic lilies. It retains an arch and mitre, akin to the Imperial Crown of Godfrey, though much lower and shallower, akin to the crowns worn by both Heinrik van Roy and Franz-Josef. Of the mtire, the scenes depicted are of the arrival, anointing, coronation, and martyrdom of Franz-Josef. There are eleven jewels total encrusted in the crown, each numbering a martyr of the Franciscan Massacre. *Worn only by the current reigning King of Hanseti-Ruska. Ruska Leaves One of the more uniquely designed tiaras by Vespira L. Made in the shape of Ruska Leaves, with a small golden comb on the bottom to hold it to one’s hair. The tiara is made of pure Sunholdt Gold, in the shape of two long strands of Ruskan leaves wrapping around the head, with 4 more sprouting from the middle in an arched pattern. At the bottom of the leaves sits 3 perfect gold berries, hanging from the centremost branches. A one of a kind from The Princess’ Custom made collection by Vespira L. *Reserved for Princess Emma Anastasya, Duchess of Karlsburg. The Phoenix Crown A majestic crown of gold. There are two ways to wear this crown. The full one where it has the red cloth and round like shape at the top. Or the layered one where it goes around one’s head. It is adorned with large rubies and opals. Golden chains hang from the sides and can either be connected in the back or simply hanging loose. The reason for the name is the rubies used. For they were found in the remains of a burnt down building. Engraved on the inside of the crown reads, “Rise from the ashes and soar high into the sky.” It was commissioned by Karolina Barclay to be given as a gift to Queen Viktoria. Though the woman died in the year 1768 before she herself could give it to her. The Rhenyari Rose A shimmering circlet made of the finest aurum, bedecked with gemstones of opal, emerald, and ruby alike. Specially crafted for Queen Amadea Ulyssa’s Coronation, the circlet donned an engraving on both sides of its interior which reads, “Krusae Zwy Kongzem” in bold lettering. Around each gemstone was a diamond bloating encasing each one, allowing the circlet to brilliantly shine upon the Queen’s head. Needless to say, it was a circlet most certainly fit for any royal consort. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Diadems ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Bloodlust’s Diadem A part of a larger set called the Bloodlust Parune, the Diadem is the opulence of royalty. Fashioned into a singular point giving the entire jewel a triangle shape with a prudent 50 carat ruby named the ‘Lúcia Ruby’ after the woman who lost her life quarrying for it. Inside the frail aurum outline, 30 more rubies are strung together to create diamond patterns. This piece is vulnerable to environmental changes and only worn for debuts or weddings to protect its structure. The Barbanov Diadem A Kokoshnik styled tiara that catches the light in dozens of perfect white diamonds and baguette-cut aquamarine. It is clear this tiara is quite a rare piece, for each precious stone has been inlaid into a setting of purified aurum. This aurum still bore faint streaks of red within it when viewed from the back, weakened by its typical supernatural-repelling qualities due to its origins from melted down coins of the Arcasain inferni scourge. This tiara was crafted originally for Prinzenas Royal Katerina Cecilva Barbanov in the year of the Second Age by Edelweiss Diamanté's Luisa Klaire Barclay. *Reserved for Princess Emma Anastasya, Duchess of Karlsburg. The Klątwa Diadem A Diadem that consists of a golden frame with trace amounts of Copper, giving it an orange undertone. The lower half of the band is lined with topaz in a radiant-cut shape. A moderately large 50 carat ruby is set into the top centre, its origin is shrouded in spoken myth as the ruby was originally fainter in colour than its modern counterpart. The Diadem was gifted to the Prinzenas Klara Elizaveta by a lesser member of Barbanov. It is said that her cousin chanted a phrase into the diadem before giving it to the Prinzenas, causing a subtle uneasiness to be emanated to those around the piece of jewelery. The Muldav Diadem An ornate symbol of the regality and sovereignty of Hanseti-Ruska, decorated in jewels only of clear, blue or white tiny. All the metalwork of the diadem is pure silver. The base is set with three layers, with small pearls in the centre line and 3 carat diamond surrounding and parallel to the pale gems. Intricate designs engraved with I to 2-carat diamonds circle throughout the crown jewel and border the teardrop pearls that hang at the core of the regal headpiece. Above the central teardrop pears is a 10 carat diamond known as the ‘Diamond of Muldav,’ defining the original ownership to the Queen Maya. The Piatra Lunii Diadem The Piatra Lunii Diadem was organised as a precursor headpiece to the grand Barbanov Diadem. Distinctly contrived for a youthful Princesses first royal regalia piece. Instead of the shimmering diamonds found in the Barbanov Diadem, 100 fair pearls fished from the lakes of Valwyck are arranged in swirling patterns on the surface of a gilded tiara. Overall, it was strong, sturdy, and unbreakable. It would be essentially impossible to damage the treasure. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Tiaras ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Tiara of Karlsberg A beautiful Savoyan Silver tiara encrusted entirely out of diamonds in the shape of floral leaves. The centre of the tiara holds a diamond flower dotted by a large pearl, and at the top of the crown sits 7 peaks of upside-down teardrop pearls, the 7th being the larger, held high on a peacock's tail. A beautiful tiara made custom for the Duchess of Karlsburg. A one of a kind from The Princess’ Custom made collection by Vespira L. *Reserved for Princess Emma Anastasya, Duchess of Karlsburg. The Asserala Tiara Commissioned by the Viscountess-Consort Eleanora Amador for her dearest friend, Princess Petra Emma. This tiara is the first piece in the Asserala Collection. This silver diadem has been smithed to resemble a partial wreath of sunflowers. Three needle brilliant andradite gems sit within the frame of the tiara. The middle gemstone is slightly larger than those on either side of it. Each andradite sits in the middle of a sunflower, petals revolving around them as smaller sunflowers with highlight brilliant cut onyxes at their centres swirl around the larger andradite sunflowers. The words “The Azurean Rose” lie on the back of the tiara in neat print. *Reserved for Princess Isabel Theodora, Duchess of Kvenoland. The Snowwhite Tiara A breathtaking tiara made up of gold, though the gold base is obscured by a multitude rows of opalescent diamonds. Each row upon the tiara displays one hundred 0.5-carat diamonds that shimmer upon the sides and forefront of the crown. A display of pride and wealth, the design is that of what a Princess or Queen of Hanseti-Ruska would wear. *Reserved for the Queen-consort, Amaya of Venzia. The Starsteel Tiara A tiara forged from lunarite, styled to resemble Haeseni crafts with hints of Dwarven influences and metalwork. Should it be exposed to natural light, it would glow softly with a pale silver luminescence. An inscription about the tiara, which rests upon the wearer's brow reads, “Blessings of Bella unto ye. May your passions be fruitful and merry.” The centre of the tiara bears a cabochon Norlandic ruby, about the size of a knuckle bone, and has an attractive purple-red colouration when exposed to light. The interior of the tiara is engraved in the Sigi log Clan Starbreaker, behind the gems setting. Given to Koenas Emma on the day of her wedding to Sigismund III. Ve Pärla Tiara An exquisite string of refined pearls the hue of Hanseti snow crafted into a tiara through an aurum wire. A momentous emerald lined in delicate golden flourishes sits at the very top to indicate the wearer's prestige. Given to Queen Amadea as a wedding present from the Mistress of the Robes, Nikoleta Baruch. *Reserved for Amadea of Susa The Tiara of Venzia This tiara was a custom piece made by Lady Elia Eryka Colborn-Stafyr, Baroness of Thurant and Curator of Crown Jewels. Historically known for its mixture of Scyfling and Raevir influence, the headpiece is said to bring luck to its wearer. A carved band of pure gold ran along the bottom of the base itself, fifty miniscule pearls bordered the surface, with a fashioned brace of braided gold bordering the ivory spheres. Atop that gemstones of varying cuts lined the tiara in 1 carat cuts, making up a multitude of different faux-roses. The primary crystals used were that of rubies, fire opal, and red diamonds. Nearer the center of the circlet amber, peach moonstone, and garnet made up intricate designs that led to a singular larger rose of 3 carat Aeldinic rubies. At the sides of the tiara are dangling coins, reminiscent of traditional Scyfling headdresses to symbolize the Queen’s closeness to her Scyfa roots. What made for an even devastating alluring flair was the many creamy white albino-raven feathers of shorter length that lined the backside of the tiara, allowing them to poke upwards sporadically in a dashing display. *Reserved for the Queen-consort, Amaya of Venzia. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Kokoshnik ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Gràdh ve Beatha Kokoshnik A grand aurum cylindrical headdress lined with cream tinted pearls. The diadem held a 5 carat trilliant cut ruby in the centre which distinguished the wearer among the crowd. Upon the sides of the kokoshnik are smaller oval cut onyx’s and sapphires with tiny strings of the pearls that drop down the sides elegantly in mix with strings of blue beads. The blue beads indicate imagination, and the copious red ribbons that hold the large headdress to the wearer’s head represent devotion to love and family. Originally made for Princess Anastasya, Duchess of Valwyck by her childhood friend, Nikoleta Barbara. *Reserved for Princess Isabel Theodora, Duchess of Kvenoland. Kreden’s Emerald Kokoshnik A string of voluminous pearls hold up the base of a luxurious kokoshnik formed from 18k yellow gold. Inlaid at its centre is a bulky emerald named ‘Zelen' Udacha’. Along the sides of this piece, the emerald is compassed by a collection of rose-cut pink rubies. The elegance of the Kreden’s Emerald Kokoshnik is most apparent when knotted together at the base of the head and tilted upwards so the light catches the brilliant gemstones, setting rooms ablaze in sparkles. Ruskan Rose’s Kokoshnik Compared to prior royal jewels, the Ruskan Rose’s Kokoshnik is the simplest. Made from a thick red satin base with a narrow line of ivory colored pearls sewn onto the bottom. Flourishes of gold are embroidered alongside dainty roses at its base. In 1863, it would make its first public debut upon the head of Dorothea vas Ruthern who was later titled the Ruskan Rose. Unlike The Aurum Halo, the Ruskan Rose’s Kokoshnik represents the bond of love and desire. The Aurum Halo A rather plain golden kokoshnik made of a lightened gold material. Upon the front are small embellishments of magical swirls. Although it was initially crafted for Princess Nikoleta’s wedding, it has come to represent loveless marriages and divorce. Those who choose to don this jewel for the Juliyafest and their wedding doom their marriage and love life. The Ruby Emerald Kokoshnik This kokoshnik tiara bears net cut ruby emeralds, emeralds that shine a pinkish red in colour. The gold frame that holds the emeralds in place seems to be removable, small eyes allowing for a chain to be attached to form a fringe necklace. Without the frame removed, the kokoshnik stands up traditionally from the head in typical Ruskan fashion, the emeralds seeming to become darker shades of red the closer to the head they get. The bottom of the gold frame, below the emeralds is engraved with delicate roses and the words “The Azurean Rose” are written on the interior of the tiara in neat print. When worn by Queen Emma, aurum Crispinettes and a veil were added to enhance the piousness of the wearer. Ve Lude Krawn I Karosgrad A silver crystal-encrusted diadem with light blue accents. The tiara held sparkling princess-cut indigo kyranite and moonstone lined up next to each other in an alternating pattern - each growing larger towards the middle. Made of sterling silver the points of the diadem were formed out of clustered pieris and daffodil blossoms - the large lily-like flowers surrounded by the smaller bell-shaped blossoms. In the centre of the crown, the cluster of three silver blooming daffodils housed two star sapphires, and the largest flower of them all held within it a shimmering blue Titan’s eye - glittering like a snowflake falling in the sun. Upon wearing the diadem, the wearer would find a wave of serenity and calmness wash over them. On the inside was printed in cursive, “For the Most Beautiful of All - 409 E.S.” Last updated on the 23rd of Gronna ag Droba, 503. Originally commissioned by, HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Amadea of Susa, Queen-consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-consort of Varna, Baroness-consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Written firstly at the hand of, Her Ladyship, Nikoleta Barbara Baruch Mistress of the Wardrobe

A CALLING FOR SUITORS UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 15th day of Jula ag Piov of 440 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK As the upcoming generation does grow nearer to maturity, the Dual-Monarchy must prepare once more for the hosting of a Lifstala season. The Queen's Council of Amadea Ulyssa does hereby extend an invitation to all the youths of Canonist stock should they too wish to partake in the upcoming season’s festivities. Those finding themselves between their sixteenth and twenty-fifth name day upon the first of Wzucar ag Byvca, 445 E.S, are eligible to partake in the season, irregardless of liege, status, or lack thereof. All those wishing to present themselves to the Courts of the Morrivi Prikaz are asked to send word to the Queen’s Council so their name may be struck down upon our list of upcoming suitors. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. His Excellency, Mikhail Tuvya var Ruthern, Grand Lord of Hanseti-Ruska, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South

Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 12th day of Msitza ag Dargund of 439 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, All subjects of the Crown who have reached the age of majority, that being eighteen years, are hereby invited to attend a most elegant night of festivities. Those who are wishing to make an appearance are implored to follow all writings penned by the Morrivi on formal attire, lest they cast themselves in an unfavourable light. I. ATTIRE & THEME As is commonly seen at parties such as this, guests shall be judged on their attire in a dressing competition. Those who incorporate some sense of the night sky, namely the stars, into their outfit will surely be seen favourably. The victor shall receive a minae prize, surely sufficient to buy a few more rounds! III. THE CHAMBERLAIN’S SPEECH Kegs of drink shall be brought out as the night’s festivities commence, ushered in by the opening words of our Court Chamberlain. At the conclusion of her speech, the grand piano will sound, signifying that the first dance is to begin beneath the light of the stars. II. THE FIRST DANCE During this first dance each couple shall be judged on their prowess by Lady Catalina of House Colborn. Those who she declares most adept shall receive a token, by which they may remember these festivities. IV. ROUND AND ROUND AGAIN Seats will be set in a circle and guests are encouraged to move between them freely, meeting new people and enjoying the company of strangers. It should be noted that for each table moved one is entitled to a free shot of liquor. V. CALLING OF THE MOON A taste of the newest concoction brewed by the Karosgradi tavern, dubbed Moonshine, will be served free of charge to any who wish for it. This most lustrous drink is claimed to be perfect for those seeking a moment’s respite from the antics of the Haeseni youth. VI. THE FINAL DANCE At the night’s end the final dance shall be held. There shall be no competition, nor prize, though it must be noted that this dance will be equally, if not more important than the first. A gentleman who last dances with a lady is expected to escort her home. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. His Excellency, Mikhail Tuvya var Ruthern, Grand Lord of the Morrivi Court, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South Her Ladyship, Maeve Isobel Morovar, Court Chamberlain of Hansenti-Ruska, Baroness-Consort of Ghastenwald Her Ladyship, Catalina Rosalyn Colborn, Ward of the Queen’s Council

Published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe 7th of Tov ag Yermey, 439 ES Karosgrad Trends: 100 Years of Independence Isabel of Valwyck on her wedding day, circa 1782 Dearest Readers, Moda i ve Kort has served dutifully under the prior rule of Koenas Emma, and shall continue to provide insight on Courtly fashion. Since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan wear, the devoted Mistress of the Wardrobe is obliged to continue her service under the household of Koenas Amadea. To build upon legacies and provide regulation of fashion standards is a great honor. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: The history and fashion of the courts of Karosgrad since the Dual Kingdoms independence. Introductory; In the years prior to Queen Isabel's reign, the majority of High Haeseni Society emulated the trends of the Orenian Courts down south. The Haeseni had simply adopted trends not their own, through their Orenian Hosts successful balls and displays. Following the establishment of their independent Nation, the Courts of the newly formed Dual Kingdom resolved to develop their own style of courtship attire, suited to the harsh weather the North bore. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Karosgrad Ornament ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Lady Palatine Marcella Barclay 340 - 380 E.S. On the 18th of the First Seed, 1786, Queen Isabel “The Dancing Queen” found herself ascending to the position of Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska, thus sending her forth into redesigning the royal courts in her image. Throughout her reign, she and Josef I would become independent of the Holy Orenian Empire and be the first royal pair on Almaris. These dramatic changes in environment were reflected in the clean style found in the courts during her tenure as Queen-Consort. Dresses from this period in time preserved well, the sewing done excellently. Quality over quantity owned the market. Queen Isabel’s more famous gowns were later worn by Queen Mariya and passed down to Princess Royal Petra Emma. Orenian Influences Although her reign began with the dissolution of Hanseti-Ruska from the Holy Orenian Empire, the Orenian influence on fashion remained present. Along with Isabel’s lineage, the style of Orenian gowns never left the courts during Isabel’s reign. The Alto-Modernism and older Kraijan Minimalism styles were highly popularized and stayed in fashion long after her reign, eventually establishing itself away from the Empire. Common garbs were of simplistic design to accentuate the ideal of the effortless female. The style consisted of smaller fitted corseted tops, forming the Alto-Modernism high waistline along with a panel in the front of the skirt which would open to a petticoat. The petticoats were usually lined with simple aurum embroidery nearer to the hems of the dress. Sleeves were tight and covered the arms to below the elbow, opening up to delicate lace. In place of shawls that the Orenians wore, Hanseni women had to adapt to the colder weather of their country. Choosing to don furs around their shoulders of polar bear or fox pelts. Colors Colors were dull, dark, and simple. Most donned blues or reds due to the excessive abundance of both dyes. They had yet to develop meanings, only being worn by price. Rarer or expensive colors like purple were solely afforded by the Queen and her daughters. Jewelry At this time in history, Haense had lackluster quarries, making jewels and large golden embroidery rarer sights. Yet, instead of feeling shameful, most looked back on this period as modest and the simplistic style of Kraijan Minimalism fed into this. Royals wore tiny tiaras of gold and most owned small strings of pearls from the harbors. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Early Ruskan Society ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── High Justicar Tatiana Kortrevich 380 - 390 E.S. Unlike Queen Isabel, Annika had an eye for the expensive and luxurious. Even before her formal time as Queen she had developed high standards for her future courts when it came to manners, etiquette, and fashion. Famously, as she rose to queen she published “The Resurgence of Ruskan Fashion” in 382 E.S. This marked the true shift in tides with new ideas rapidly spreading across Annikas court. It was an era indicative of advancement. Ruskan Style Ruskan fashion had much history and existed long before this era. However, the courts were overcome with the corset and open skirt style of Karosgrad Ornament. Change did not occur until Queen Isabel’s daughter, Princess Royal Katerina, introduced a new traditional garment named the “Sarafan”. This style would be slowly integrated into the courts of Hanseti-Ruska and later popularized by Queen Annika once she inherited the courts formally. The Queen had a love of Ruskan style from her early upbringings, yet still respected the open skirt style of the era. Wearing much of that during her reign. Her real contribution to the beginning of Ruskan fashion in Haense was one of the first things she published, “The Resurgence of Ruskan Fashion” in which Annika would write about the intricate details of Ruskan fashion. The garment consisted of a white underdress and an overdress. If the wearer was young, a belt would be tied around the waist to contribute to the youth's purity and support childish movements in times of activity. The white underdress covered one's arms and upper torso for modesty and warmth. It would include embroidery styles and ribbons. The overdress is the most complicated part of the beloved style, and also began the shift from the open skirt design to fastenings at the front of the gowns. Simpler overdresses were worn day to day, but for court, jewels were added to the garb to bring life to it. Poneva’s were attempted to be introduced, which included a plaid or striped skirt wrapped around the hips, a long loosely fitting shirt, and an apron that was heavily decorated with lace and embroidery. The idea of an apron was offputting most fashionable young ladies. So, the garment did not stick around for long or was expected to be worn only by older women. Colors A great change occurred during this period when it came to colors. They now had complex meanings and one, simply by looking at another, could tell who they wanted to be portrayed by. Many studies have been conducted into colors and their respective symbolism, so we at Moda will merely give two to three words to each color. Red; love, devotion, country Orange; caution, determination, strong minded Yellow; friendship, death, country Green; envy, wealth, fertility Blue; high confidence, adventurer, imagination Purple; nobility and magic Pink; youth and playfulness Gold; royal Black; mourning, piety, country White; purity, devotion to faith, and marriage Brown; humility ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Late Ruskan ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Emma of Jerovitz, Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska 390 - 430 E.S. Queen Emma grew up at Jerovitz, largely secluded from the Royal Court. As was common with Haeseni children, she wore the sarafan in her younger years. Emma had always favoured bright colours in contrast to the colder hues typically sported by noblewoman of the wintry nation. Donning floral patterns and brighter silks from childhood, upon inheriting the Royal Courts from Queen Annika, Emma created a new wing of the courts to realise her vision. It would be a department to expand culture, namely fashion, led by the esteemed Mistress of the Robes. And thus, the lengthy Late Ruskan period was born, and with it, Moda i ve Kort, marking a dramatic break from previous Orenian styles, and cementing a new era of dress in modern Haeseni history. Ruskan’s Evolution Ruskan fashion was flaunted during this period. Beyond the Royal Court many women wore kokoshniks and Ruskan-style skirts, while veils and headdresses became commonplace to see around the city. Moda i ve Kort was an instrumental force in cementing and recording these etiquette rules, as missives and studies were published to update the wider nation on what the Royal Court deemed proper and popular, in terms of dress. It was in the Late Ruskan period that one of the remaining Orenian influences, that of the “open skirt” style of dress, was discarded in practice in favor of the poneva and sarafan styles. Children and the lower class often wore loose-fitting, simpler versions of the highly-decorated and beaded creations of elder nobility. Queen Emma popularized the Ruskan vest - a jacket, often embellished and threaded with gold - worn for extra warmth over one’s dress, or to act as a looser bodice. Longer sleeves were made popular, more fitting for the colder climate of Haense. The style moved away from the shorter puffy sleeves of Orenian influence. Many court dresses had a large outer sleeve which draped down, and a smaller slim one, tailored to wrist-length, within it. Dresses and tunics evolved to match the Queen’s personal style - that being colorful and bold, layered fabrics for both aesthetic and practical gain, with detailed embroidery and embellishments. This new era replaced the prior simpler designs of the early Ruskan. White underdresses of the sarafan were often dyed other colors to compliment the overskirt. Colors As alluded to before, the traditional darker Haeseni fabrics - typical of the cold Northern region - were worn less and less among younger folk. The elderly favored darker tones to highlight their maturity, whereas younger fashion transitioned to an assortment of bright and pastel colors. Publishing a study on the meaning of Haeseni colors, Late Ruskan fashion became an outlet to express status and emotion more than before. Pink garnered a new meaning under Queen Emma as her signature color, representing herself and this new age of color, while also being a symbol of the Karenina Movement later in her reign. Adornments Kokoshniks provided ample opportunity for the key jewelers of the Haeseni Kingdom to experiment with their embroidery and jewel-encrustment. Bead work grew in popularity, both on robes and headpieces. From gems placed on kokoshnik, to strings of pearls hanging down. Jewels were assigned status and meaning, consolidated by the Queen’s jeweled brooches, which were distributed to the members of her Court and those who had earned Emma’s trust. From her personal love of the natural world, floral embroidery and patterns were commonplace within her Court - a style inherited from generations before, but popularized in this period. Veils and sashes were also defined by further Moda posts, indicating a rise in modesty. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── The Amadean Era ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Princess Aloisa, Duchess-Consort of Rothswald 430 - Present E.S. Out of sheer whit did the Basrid Queen, Amadea of Susa, take hold of the courts. After her match with Karl III for love, she would inherit the courts gracefully from Queen Emma. The Rhenyari Queen shared more than a name with the almost Empress of Oren, but a love for dramatic change in fashion. Almost as soon as she adopted the last name ‘Basrid’ she took up the Rhenyari style, and when she was passed down the courts she would attempt to spread the style across her courts. This future era, although not concrete, has been frequently worn by the royals since the marriage of Karl III and Amadea. Influence from Rhenyari The cultural influences of the Ruskan Queen shifted with the transition to the Rhenyari Queen, Amadea of Susa. Amadea's influence soon spread throughout the Morrivi Prikaz courts, and classical Susan styles became more popular amongst the higher classes, resulting in the popularization of silk, bamboo, and linen fabrics. The focal point of the new Era was its notably lower waistlines, delicately soft pastel hues, and bringing back an old tradition, the Royal color being gold. Jewelry Adding a touch of elegance to every outfit, jewels can coordinate with necklaces, rings, earrings, or any other outer accessories a person may have in their collection. Traditionally, gold or silver is used to make each piece. A newly curated ornate jewelry collection is flourishing in the Palace now that the position of Court Jeweler of the Morrivi Prikaz has been filled and etiquette for gold has been developed. Drapery With the ascendancy of Rhenyar over the courts, a duller, flowy silhouette had emerged as the most feminine option for wear whether it be casual or formal, the fashion now straying away from the more structured shape of the past. The Amadean Era calls for the replacement of the denser gowns of yesteryear with shawls, floor-length coats, and fur-lined capes instead. Along with the change from thicker fabrics to linens and silk, more layers are recommended as the safest route for day-to-day wear, especially as the harshest of winters seem to grow closer each day. Veils are still quite prominent in today’s courtship attire, a refined yet loose wimple is considered standard in any married woman’s daily wear, but quite unexpectedly, the younger and uncoupled crowd have seemingly taken on the modest look as well. Signed, HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Amadea of Susa, Queen-consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-consort of Varna, Baroness-consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. HER LADYSHIP, Nikoleta Barbara Baruch Mistress of the Wardrobe HER LADYSHIP, Maya Ekaterina Ruthern Ward to the Mistress of the Wardrobe

339 - 439 E.S. UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 14th day of Tov ag Yermy of 438 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK Rejoice, Haeseni! The turning of the year shall mark one-hundred since the signing of the Edict of Separation by Anne I and thus the independence of our glorious kingdom. Under the reigns of Sigismund and Karl, third of their names, both the Empire and Kingdom of our former masters have been crushed at Southbridge, Karosgrad, the Eastfleet and Acre. Orenia has crumbled and our kingdom, whilst with hiccups, has prospered thanks to the works of all those that came before, from members of the Brotherhood, citizens of the nation to the kings and queens that have led it. It is the will of their Royal Majesties, King Karl III and Queen-Consort Amadea of Susa, that all Haeseni are invited to attend the festivities that shall be held in celebration of this momentous occasion. The itinerary of such is outlined below and events shall commence on the eve of Jula ag Piov and cease as Gronna ag Dobra comes to its end. ON THE 9TH DAY OF JULA AG PIOV ROYAL COURT His Royal Majesty shall address the subjects of the Crown in the halls of the Morrivi, delivering unto them a brief speech on the nature of the day and declaring the official start to the year’s revelries. The Councils of the Crown shall then make any announcements they deem pertinent before sending all on their way. TOURNEY OF 438 E.S. It has been long since the last dubbing of the Grand Champion, with the last being declared two decades ago under the reign of Sigismund III. Thus, all warriors of the Dual-Kingdom are called to the Hippodrome for a tournament of single combat on foot. He who emerges victorious shall be awarded a purse of 400 minae and the title of Grand Champion of Karosgrad, bestowed upon them by the King himself. (OOC: Thursday, 18th August, 3pm EST) ON THE 12TH OF VYZMEY AG HYFF MASS AT THE BASILICA His Holiness Tylos III shall hold mass in the Basilica of Saint Henrik, open to all those faithful who wish to attend. The Crown implores all Haeseni to flock to the Basilica, for it is by the will of GOD this Kingdom has remained independent for a century, and one must not forget His role in such when partaking in these revelries. (OOC: Friday, 19th August, 5pm EST) ON THE 12TH OF GRONNA AG DROBA FESTIVAL AT RICHTENBURG Beyond the walls of the castle Richtenburg, land has been cleared for the hosting of a festival. A large tent has been erected upon it, and in said tent is a number of merchant stalls. Any who wish to operate such a stall are encouraged to contact either Her Royal Majesty or the Grand Lord to arrange their doing so. In addition to this, many games, a tiltyard, and a large roller-coaster shall be operated on the former lands of House Mondblume. COURTLY JOUST It is the will of His Royal Majesty that the King’s Court welcome a Master of the Horse, who shall care for the royal steed and advise the King on all matters equine. To decide the man worthy of such lofty office, a joust shall be held at the tiltyard beyond Richtenburg. He who remains saddled at the end of the day shall be dubbed Master of the Horse and receive a purse of 300 minae. As the victor shall surely be most chivalrous, he shall also receive the Beet of the Century, that he is to grant to the lady in the stands he most favours. All ladies in attendance are additionally encouraged to make their own favour known by giving their colours to a champion, who will carry them throughout his bouts. BURNING OF THE CENTENNIAL PYRE At the conclusion of the festivities, those of Haeseni stock are implored to write upon a piece of parchment either an evil of the past, or a wish for the future. These are then to be piled on a pyre of wood, which shall then be set alight. As the pyre burns, kegs of Carrion are to be rolled out and bards shall play. Amongst this revelry, stories and histories of those Haeseni that worked to uphold our nation. (OOC: Saturday, 20th August, 5pm EST) IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. His Excellency, Mikhail Tuvya var Ruthern, Grand Lord of the Morrivi Court, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South

Published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe 15th of Joma ag Umund, 437 E.S. COSMETICS A young Haeseni woman looking through her box of cosmetics. Dearest Readers, Moda i ve Kort has served dutifully under the prior rule of Koenas Emma, and shall continue to provide insight on Courtly fashion. Since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan wear, the devoted Mistress of the Wardrobe is obliged to continue her service under the household of Koenas Amadea. To build upon legacies and provide regulation of fashion standards is a great honor. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: Cosmetics and Routine. Respectability The respectability of makeup varies evenly between members of the clergy and court. It is felt that it is not generally a desired state, but women afflicted with illness and thereby unattractive were excused from the sin of vanity that cosmetics create. The desire was not to repel others or their husbands, and thus deemed an acceptable excuse for such enhancement. To follow this, younger women or men are in no need for cosmetics and if their physical enrichment was notable it is frowned upon. Within the courts, a clean and undamaged face is the highest desire. That is why it is of superior dignity to focus on the care and tidiness of the face. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Facial Enhancements ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Foundation The climate of the Kingdom of Hanserti-Ruska takes a prominent stance in society and especially in beauty and cosmetics. The evan skin of the kingdom’s residents is a common genetic trait and is often a desired look within the Royal Courts. Smooth skin can be seen as a symbol of nobles, showing their lack of time laboring out in fields compared to commoners. If it is impossible to diligently care for the skin, or the skin is damaged by ailments, there are other ways to obtain the same look. By applying a powder to the face, they can cover up the uneven skin and tone down any apparent blemishes on the face. Face powder ingredients would depend on the apothecary and also the price a lady would be willing to pay. Simple recipes such as ground up wheaten flour would be easily accessible and purchased by the common woman, while ground up minerals would be collected by the noble lady as it would be easily applied and display a finer finish than that of the wheaten flour. Ground lily root would also be a common ingredient for a finer face powder, although this was much rarer to acquire and would come at a hefty price. One recipe book or a face powder cosmetic to smooth the face comes from Ve Karos Apothecary on the continent of Arcas. The method is as follows: 'There is a make-up that is very easy to make. Put very pure wheat in water for fifteen days, then grind and blend it in the water. Strain through a cloth, and let it crystalise and evaporate. You will obtain make-up which will be as white as snow. When you want to use it, grind up further to create a fine powder, and spread it on your face using a clean brush. Use the same brush to rid yourself of any patchy spots.' To apply the powder you take a circle of fabric and softly dip into your container. Then, softly, dab the powder over your face in a single even coat. Lip Stain A lip tincture or balm are seen as lip treatments for dried skin around the mouth and are commonly used by all ladies. One ancient recipe for a lip balm described as a 'sweet smelling berry tincture that will keep the lips from chapping and make them moist and soft' comes from the book Secrets of Miss Analeisa Krutznov, published on the continent of Vailor. The use of lip stain, besides its medicinal properties, was to emphasize the pale countenance. Contrasting the dark and vibrant colors of the Haeseni people, lip stain remains to follow more natural hues befitting its wearer. Eyeliner & Eyeshadow The striking eyes of the Haeseni woman are incomparable to any other in the realm. Hues of color ranging from a mossy-green to deep blue display the variety of eye color which comes from the women. Mastering the art of color matching, Haeseni women have perfected their eye makeup routine which included applying the proper coloring around their eyes to add emphasis to their colors. Earth toned colors from brown to deep purple are commonly applied around the eyes based on the natural color. Such colors are meant to purely emphasize the eyes, rather than applying vibrant makeup color which could easily detract from the natural beauty of the woman. Included in the eye makeup, kohl is commonly used to create a subtle pop of color. Applied on the under eye, kohl is lined along the waterline and can range from black to light brown colors similarly to eyeshadow. Once more, the kohl is applied to emphasize the natural color of the eyes and its color is commonly matched to the eyelashes or eyebrows of the wearer. Rouge As stated above, pale skin is a common genetic characteristic within Haeseni society and even more so an expectation for nobility within haense. The application of rouge commonly follows the application of white face powder in order to not make the woman seem so ghastly that she is unhealthy. A balance must be made, and only some can perfect it. Rouge is meant to bring a healthy and natural glow to its wearer, as opposed to a heavier application which signifies a more loose and scandalous woman. Rouge is often created by natural ingredients, often being berries that create a red juice or a red clay mineral which can complement the skin tone of the wearer. Similarly to lip tint, rouge is created for a natural finish and should only be applied in order to emphasize the natural beauty of the woman. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Bodily Enhancements ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── A common collection of perfumes and creams Nail Care Nails, along with hands, are often a big signifier of the social status of the individual. A commoner would have rough and damaged hands whereas a noble would have smooth hands void of any blemishes or visible work done by them. In order to display and maintain their physical appearance, noble women would often use small scissors to clip and file them down to an appropriate length. Using a wooden pointed stick and a small pad of cotton, servants or their ladies would clean off any grime or dirt trapped within the nailbed or under the nail. Perfumes Reflecting the geography of the Kingdom of Haenseti-Ruska, and the environment of which its people live in, scent is a complimentary addition to a noble's routine. Nestled within the northern region, it is of no surprise that the perfumes of high society mimic the earthy and natural culture of the Haeseni. Scents can include spices such as cinnamon and cloves which reflect the cuisine of the nation, as well as muted scents such as magnolia flowers and black tea which have a slight sweetness to them. Men often adorn themselves with richer and deeper scents such as cedar or evergreen which complements the musky scent of the Haeseni man. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Evening Routine ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Daily washing would be a common activity for the Haeseni, as it would often double as a way to find warmth, especially during the harsh winter months. Within noble society, bathing was imperative to uphold the societal hygiene standards. Steam baths as well as private bathing are the norm within Haeseni society. Often, one can find a sauna built into a home of a noble which would commonly be used by high ranking members of the household. For private baths, herbs and oils would often be added to the water in order to act as a calming and medicinal addition through aromatherapy. For those who find themselves not in need of a full bath, oftentimes a washbowl and a jug was in use. Towels were in use to dry the body. Often, these towels would be made of soft fabrics which would not irritate the skin in order to keep the natural complexion of the skin smooth and without blemish. The face gets special attention in the evening. It is advised that you are supposed to wash your face with soap made from goat's milk which has been found to have smoothing properties. Afterwards, a face scrub made up of sugar, herbs and essential oils will be applied to finish clearing off any dead skin and grime from the day. "First of all, let her wash her face very well with goat soap and with warm water, and with a straining of sugar scrub, let her wash herself in the bath.” After washing the face, thorough skin care is necessary, so our lady uses a delicate hydrating cream. It is made from beeswax, rose oil and almond oil and smooth and dewy finish to the skin. Should a lady experience a headache before she retires for the eventing, a simple ointment of vanilla and lavender may be applied to her temple to assist in warding off the headache and assist in bringing about sleep. Signed, HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Amadea of Susa, Queen-consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-consort of Varna, Baroness-consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Ladyship, Nikoleta Barbara Baruch Mistress of the Wardrobe Her Ladyship, Margot Sofiya Baruch Head Assistant to Mistress of the Wardrobe

PRINZENAS ROYALS VAN HANSETI-RUSKA THE PRINCESS ROYALS OF HANSETI-RUSKA UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 11th day of Msizta ag Dargund of 437 E.S. Written by: Austina P. Novellen-Aldersberg VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK The Princess Royal (New Marian: Prinzenas Royal), officially known as the Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska, is a title usually given to the firstborn daughter of the Monarch of Hanseti-Ruska. A Princess cannot inherit the title of ‘Princess Royal’ unless it is not currently held. Once obtained, Princess Royals hold their title until either disownment, death, or abdication. As of 434, all Princess Royals have been the first born daughter of the Monarch of Hanseti-Ruska, with 1 born in Johannesburg (I), one born in Karlsburg (II), 3 born in Alban (III, IV, V), 3 born in Markev (VI, VII, VIII), 4 born in Reza (IX, X, XI, XII), and 3 born in Karosgrad (XIII, XIV, XV). Princess Royals I, III, IV, VI, VII, and VIII were all awarded the title postmortem. Only 15 out of 20 Monarchs have titled a Princess Royal, with Peter II and Charles II unwed, Marius I only had sons, Franz II never had children, and Sigismund III never titled su daughters. Out of all the Princess Royals, the most prevalent name is Katherine (I, II, III, XIII) followed by Reza (IV, XI, XII) with 3. I PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, JULIYA KATHERINE, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, BARONESS OF WETT @frankdh Julia Katherine Barbanov | Juliya van Johannesburg 118 E.S - 163* E.S | 1565 A.H - 1610* A.H (45 yrs) Parentage: Peter I, Elizabeth of Metterden The first Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska was born on the 17th of the Amber Cold, 1564, to Peter I and his consort Elizabeth of Metterden. She would be dubbed “Princess Royal” in 1578 upon her father's coronation as King of Hanseti-Ruska when she was 14 years old. She served as Princess-Royal of Hanseti-Ruska for 32 years until her disappearance in the early 1610s. Juliya’s life was spent dotting on others, all beginning when her mother died during childbirth in 1567 when Juliya was merely 2. She’d rapidly mature into a mother figure for her 3 younger siblings as her father battled and evoked a kingdom. Her siblings later wrote how serious Juliya seemed in her childhood, always fond of service and prayer. Some went as far as to describe her likeness to Saint Juliya. This characterization of her caused copious suitors to desire her hand in marriage. Strikingly, after John IV assumed the throne as Emperor, he would approach Juliya’s brother, King Andrik II. The Emperor sought a quick engagement with the Princess Royal, but unsuccessfully for John IV, Andrik II was a man of volatile tempers. He already held disdain for him, making matters worse. At most are aware, the diplomatic meeting took an unseen turn when Andrik II, along with his retainer Brynden Vanir, killed John IV. Thereafter, Andrik II was murdered in the streets of Johannesburg, and Juliya was left suitorless due to her brother's outburst. Ultimately, her life settled down as she finally matched with the Baron of Wett, Charles Martin. She’d give birth to a single son and spent most of her later life besides her nephew, Marius I. One could argue she felt personally responsible for her older brother's passing which is why she spent an exuberance of time at court, maintaining a strong influence over his entire life alongside her brother’s wife, Queen-Mother Reza. Juliya was also renowned for her numerous canvases and scenes, which were displayed in the Royal Hanseti Guild of Art. Despite living double the life expectancy of her time, the Princess Royal did not find her rest until after her nephew passed in a drunken haze. She now blamed herself for not only her brother's death, but her nephews. The guilt was so deep it caused her to flee from society and she was assumed dead in the early 1610s. Her narrative was told many times posthumously, being an inspiration to many Princesses of Hanseti blood. Finally, her most outstanding gift to the Barbanov family was her secret receipe for Hot Chocolate passed from Princesses and Queen-Consorts down every generation. Between the Years, 1610 and 1703 the formal indication of “Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska” was practically unused. Many of the first born ladies of Hanseti Monarchs of this period were later dubbed “Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska” purely as a formality. The only exception to this period was the Queen of Marna, Henrietta Louise, who was identified as “Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska” from her birth year in 1625 till her unexplained disappearance. II PRINZENAS ROYAL HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, KATHERINE ALEKSANDRA, DUCHESS OF CARNATIA @Jtit Katherine Alexandra Barbanov | Katherine van Karlsburg 136 E.S - unknown E.S | 1583 A.H. - unknown A.H Parentage: Andrik II, Reza of Turov Princess Katherine Aleksandra was born to Andrik II and the first Queen of Haense, Reza, on the 10th of the Sun’s Smile 1583. Katherine was the twin of Marius I and named after both her royal aunts, Juliya Katherine and Tatiana Aleksandra. Her mother sought the best education for her only daughter, raising her to be one day fit for a strategic marriage. Her tutors were remarkable with the arts, music, and court affairs. She’d famously become proficient at the harp, flute, and piano-forte. Her upbringing was filled with study and tranquil activities with her mother until the age of 10 when her father was hanged. The sudden tragedy forced her mother into serving as regent until her twin, Marius I, was old enough to reign as king. Katherine helped where she could but she was too young to truly help. So, most of her pubescent years were spent lonely playing music or writing. In 1598 when Katherine was 15 her mother would go behind her back to betroth her to her nephew, Sergei II, Duke of Carnatia. Reza had sent letters to her brother, Heinrik, to arrange for a double match. She’d offer up Katherine to her brother's oldest son so he may retain a royal marriage and in return, Heinrik would marry his oldest daughter to her second son, Otto. Thus, implanting Carnatias blood throughout the next generation of Hanseti Royalty. Officially, Katherine and Sergei were married in 1600 and had three children. With all three pregnancies, Katherine struggled as her mother had. She’d write down the experiences as ‘Terribly dreadful and draining, no woman ought to endure such difficulties’. In spite of it, all three of the children made it past adolescence. Her eldest son inherited the title Duke of Carnatia and her daughter would be married to Matyas Vanir, Margrave of Vasiland. This filled her with such contentment, but alas, her husband passed and her own spirit seemed to fade with it. All those who knew her saw her fall into a depression and later vanish. Her death was unconfirmed with nobody ever found, and little was known of her time spent in her older years other than her continued practice of the piano-forte. She would be later titled Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska posthumously, never being awarded it during her lifetime and beginning a long streak of almost a century where no Princess of Hanseti blood would be titled such. III PRINZENAS ROYAL HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, VIKTORIYA KATERINA, DUCHESS OF MARKEV Victoria Katherine Barbanov | Viktoriya van Alban 170 E.S - 172 E.S | 1617 A.H. - 1619 A.H Parentage: Stefan I, Elizabeth of Courland The firstborn of Stefan I and Elizabeth of Courland was Princess Viktoriya. Disturbingly, her fate was unforeseen, to say the least. She was born into a household of hatred in late 1617 with a pair of weakened lungs. The resentment her parents held for each other was said to only worsen Viktoriya’s health until one day, she succumbed to the birth defect. Postmortem she was titled Duchess of Markev and Princess Royal of Hanseti Ruska by her father who grieved for not granting enough time to his only daughter when she was alive. IV PRINZENAS ROYAL HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, ISABEL REZA @Disheartened Isabella Theresa Barbanov | Isabel van Alban 157 E.S - 198 E.S | 1604 A.H. - 1645 A.H Parentage: Otto I, Catherine of Carnatia Princess Isabel Reza was born to Otto I and Catherine of Carnatia in 1604 and was the pair's third child but first-born daughter. Due to her fathers royal birth and how the grandfather rule wasn’t in existence until much later, Isabel was not a Princess until the beginning of her fathers reign in 1624. She was named after her grandmother, Queen Reza, but is also the origin of the popularized name ‘Isabel’. She was raised in the countryside during her uncle, Stefan I’s, reign. Isabel was allotted much more freedom in her adolescence and early adult years. Her education was befitting a woman of her status, sharing tutors with cousins. She derived a great deal of interest in alchemy and the supernatural, which was kept hidden from the public for fear of scrutiny. To her future, she was gifted a mystical Golem named Rom who Isabel would keep hidden from her parents and the nation. The only soul who knew of the Golem was her little sister, Elizaveta, who later wrote about such in a recovered diary. At the age of 20, her father would take the throne for 5 days before abdicating to his oldest son. This left Isabel, the rightful Princess Royal; albite she never identified with it. She aided periodically with her brother's court out of love; but she preferred the private life she had come accustomed to into her childhood. Ultimately, Isabel would marry a peasant named Elias Colborn and give birth to two children. The first was a son, which she struggled with in the midst of pregnancy. Then, during her second, she’d dig up old letters and clothes of Princess Royal Katherine, identifying with the woman’s struggle with childbirth and hoping to be gifted strength from her ancestor. Nevertheless, during her daughters delivery, a complication arose and Isabel would die giving birth. V PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, HENRIETTA LOUISE, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, QUEEN OF MARNA @Starry_ Henrietta Louise Barbanov | Henrietta van Alban 178 E.S - Unknown E.S | 1625 A.H. - Unknown A.H (25 yrs) Parentage: Otto II, Eleanor of Metz Henrietta of Haense, who was also known as Henrietta of Alban, Henrietta Louise, and Henrietta Barbanov, was a Princess Royal of Haense and later the first Queen-Consort of Marna as the wife of King Frederick. In Haense she was commonly known for being the first Royal blood to marry outside of Haense. She was born on the 2ed of the First Seed, 1625, to Otto II and Elanor of Metz. She was the only daughter of the pair and was titled Princess Royal on the evening of her birth. She was named in honor of Heinrik Otto Barbanov, a renowned Lord Palatine of Haense. Her mother, Elanor, drilled into the youthful Henrietta that success comes with becoming a queen or duchess. Anything less would be seen as blatant disrespect to her bloodlines. Her education followed this exact logic, being micromanaged by her mother which only led to spats between the two. Nonetheless, on the 11th of the First Seed, 1640, Henrietta was wed to the Marnan king, Frederick. The ceremony was reportedly an appropriate mixture of pomp and austerity. As the Queen-Consort she finally got the chance to shine, no longer under her mothers controlling thumb. Henrietta excelled in her courtly duties and apparently had a great fondness for any and all things pertaining to religion. For the most part, the citizenry of Marna adored their pious and dutiful queen and the clergy commonly praised her for reintroducing the wimple back into women’s fashion. As for the Marnan courtiers, at first, they were apprehensive about the idea of a Raevir consort for their king, and many worried she would be too demanding or uncouth. However, the worries of the court were quickly dashed upon being familiar with the Haeseni royal. Then, without a word from Frederick, he gave away the title of King of Marna to King Aurelius of Renatus. Her children were left fatherless and she fell into a deep depression, returning to her home country. Her old spark was gone by then and many saw her as a shell of who she used to be. The Princess Royal felt she had committed some significant sin for the fate that had brought her. So, she donned no jewels or finery, speaking to almost no one other than her children who were raised by the church. Henrietta’s last years were surrounded by mystery and rumors. No one could even place a date of passing for her. A widely accepted tale is that she ran off with a godly man in Aeldin, finally getting the chance to live a life of free will. VI PRINZENAS ROYAL HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, AMALIYA NATALIYA @Freya Amalie Natalia Barbanov | Amaliya van Markev 199 E.S - 233 E.S | 1646 A.H. - 1680 A.H Parentage: Otto III, Ingrid of Ulgaard Princess Amaliya Nataliya was born sometime in late 1646, the exact date unknown to historians. She derived from Otto III and Ingrid of Ulgaard but spent little time around either parent. Her juvenility was spent enacting frivolous games and running about the streets of the capital, Markev, with her brothers. Distinctly, she was hesitant to receive an education or welcome betrothals as she had observed her aunt, Henrietta, suffer in silence. In 1655, “The Great Plague” stole both her parents and her older brother, but she miraculously survived. The adolescence grew quiet in the succumbing years, assisting in the palace for the sake of her remaining brother. Nonetheless, she never married. Reminiscent of her aunt and prior Princess Royals, she’d vanish after her brother Charles II and then Franz II passed. Her body was found on the outskirts of the capital in 1680 freshly buried. Between the almost 20-year stretch of her disappearance and reappearance, she went as “Amalie” and worked as a farm aid. In conclusion, she’d die peacefully of old age and lived a remarkable 20 years longer than her family. Years later, she’d be titled Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska along with 6 other Princesses. VII PRINZENAS ROYAL HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, THEODOSIYA YSABEL @Eryane Theodosia Isabella Barbanov | Theodosiya van Markev 222 E.S - 283E.S | 1669 A.H. - 1733 A.H Parentage: Sigmar I, Sophia of Castor Theodosiya Ysabel, also referred to as Theodosiya of Markev, was the firstborn daughter of King Sigmar I and Sophia of Castor. She was a notable public figure in the capital city of Markev during her father's reign and vanished shortly after he passed. She was born on the 12th of the Deep Cold, 1669, and was ceremoniously dubbed ‘Theo’ by her father. Theodosiya was well-educated, acquiring many select tutors during her childhood. Most of which, to the dismay of the royal’s parents, Theodosia would pay little attention to. A multitude of servants recalled that the Princess's eyes were always in the sky and the hems of her skirts muddied. In one instance she'd been out with her older brothers and nearly got them assassinated. After such, she was kept guarded in the palace. Amid this pseudo confinement, Theodosiya’s actions seemed mysterious to onlookers. People sited her loud nightmares and the abundance of aurum dust spread across her bedchambers. Most historians believe this is connected to a specter. It would finally stop once she reached the age of majority, and Theodosiya, to the pride of her parents, spontaneously became instrumental to the subjects of Markev. She would assist with youth education and the general upkeep of the Theodosian Memorial Library. She would also travel to attend distinguished lands, meeting numerous suitors. The most pertinent being one Prince Alexander Horen. The couple was essentially a perfect match, if it wasn’t for her aunt, Analiese. Her aunt would pounce days before the Prince planned to engage his affections on Theodosiya, swooning him, and convincing him she would make a better wife. This left the Princess speechless and grieving. Overnight she’d flee, leaving most of her items behind except for a few gowns and a hairbrush. For almost 3 decades Theodosiya ingeniously hid, returning before her death in 1729 to aid her great-niece Mariya in her transition to Duchess of Adria. From the confines of the Adrian capital, she cared for the sick and advised Mariya. Then in 1733, Theodosiya took a carriage to the new capital of Hanseti-Ruska, Reza, to learn the fates of her old companions. Within days of arrival, she’d be taken ill by an unknown disease, passing merely days later. In her final moments, the Princess spoke of her family and how dearly she missed them. Decades later she’d be honorarily titled Princess Royal for her service to the Hanseti people and later grief that struck her down. VIII PRINZENAS ROYAL HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, ANASTASYA INGRID, LADY PALATINE-ASPIRANT @MunaZaldrizoti Anastasia Ingrid Barbanov | Anastasya van Markev 243 E.S - 265 E.S | 1690 A.H. - 1712 A.H Parentage: Robert I, Elizaveta of Vidaus Princess Anastasya was born on the 5th of Malin’s Welcome, 1690, to Robert I and Elizaveta of Vidaus. Dubbed after an ancient friend of her mother and Queen Ingrid. She would be the last Princess Royal titled postmortem and heroically threw her life at the pursuit of duty to king and country. In her childhood, she spent an excessive amount of time inside the palace walls with a Governess as a result of an unknown syndrome that kept her indoors. Her mother took a special interest in the frailty of her eldest daughter, hiring specialized doctors. She was also the first to attend her mother's classes at Theodosian Imperial Academy, however informally and from the palace library. There she would be well educated on a variety of subjects, her favorite being imperial governance. Since the Princess had spent most of her adolescence surrounded by books, she had aspired to be more than a consort. Her brother, King Marius II, named her Lady Palatine-Aspirant to satisfy his younger sister's ambition. With the title, she’d set out to reorder the public courts and the farmlands. Eventually, her damaged immune system caught up with her and she’d die at the early age of 22 after overworking herself. Anastasya never got the chance to be Palatine, get married, or see the end of her brother's reign. In the course of time, her faithfulness to her county got her dubbed Princess Royal, but not before many young Barbanov Princesses immortalized her as a tale of caution. IX PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, MARIYA ANGELIKA, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, LADY-PROTECTOR OF OREN, DUCHESS OF ADRIA, I GRAND LADY OF HANSETI-RUSKA @Ivoreyy Mary Angelica Barbanov | Mariya van Reza 256 E.S - 281 E.S | 1703 A.H. - 1738 A.H (35 yrs) Parentage: Marius II, Princess Valera of Adria Her Serene Highness, Mariya Angelika, was the first Princess Royal of Haense titled during her life since Henrietta Louise, and later the Duchess-Consort of Adria and Lady-Protector of Oren. She is famed for her fondness of writing and the arts, and a life shrouded in various scandals and intrigue. She was typically known by the beloved nickname ‘Blackwing’, especially to her Adriatic court. Mariya was delivered on the 15th of the Deep Cold, 1703, to Marius II and his primary consort, Valera of Adria. Disturbingly, her mother would pass in 1706 after her third pregnancy resulting in Mariya and her little sister Sofiya maturing outside of court in the Alimar estate. Her father swiftly remarried and sired four more newborns. Immediately he’d abandon his daughters and sickly son. Still, Mariya was ever confident in her adolescence and in no case permitted her fatherly rejection to impact her perspective. Oftentimes, she’d visit the capital of Reza alone to perform her public diligence as their Princess Royal, not so obliged to relinquish the title to her father's novel daughter. Upon Mariya reaching the age of majority she’d share a brief courtship with Renatian Knight Tiberius Tiber, but her foremost betrothal would come in 1726 to her childhood friend, Vladrick Alimar. The engagement lasted longer than expected, during which she’d honorably serve as the first Grand Lady of the Hanseti Courts. Alas her sister Sofiya had been plotting amid the engagement with the Duke of Adria. The Duke had contacted Sofiya in hopes of finding a royal Hanseti wife. Sofiya enthusiastically suggested her sister's hand which conspired in a grand public display of infidelity where the Duke’s engaged and Vladrick found out the truth of Mariya’s unique betrothal. Mariya, although distressed, had little choice but to continue her commitment to the Duke, later describing to Queen Milena that he was an arrogant and pompous fool. In 1729 she’d be wed to him, cementing the alliances between Adria and Haense. As the Duchess of Adria, Mariya’s attitude shifted abruptly from a fanatical girl into a ruler. She’d settle in the nation’s capital - the County of Renzfeld - and dutifully serve her new country. She would be credited for the entire reconstruction of the court, nobility rites, and the planned Duma. Two years into their marriage they’d welcome their first child, followed by three more throughout the years of 1731-1737. Her fate dramatically changed when Emperor Alexander II died spontaneously in 1731, leaving his legacy to Mariya’s husband as the Lord-Protector of Oren. Gradually the pair's lust for lower grew and Lord-Protector was no longer enough. They then proclaimed the rightful heir to the throne as Prince Peter Sigismundic and engaged the Prince to Princess Lorena of Cascadia. After the Prince produced an heir, Anne I, Mariya would commit her son to be the future Empress's wife. With this in mind, Mariya and Adrian together began preparations for their Imperial tenure. Traditional royalists were satisfied with Joseph’s betrothal to the Pertinaxi heiress, Hanseti patriots found themselves rallying beneath the potential of a Barbanov Empress, and Mariya engaged in discussions about the potential of marrying either of her daughters to figures within Kaedrin or Curon to secure their support. It was a perfect storm of political intrigue, shared by two figures accustomed to the intricacies of court. The official coronation was put off until the Orc skirmishes finished, but in 1737 a tragedy would strike the Empire. The Lord Protector fell ill and passed after the victory in what would be the final Orcish skirmish. Peter Sigismundic quickly took power as Peter III, leaving Mariya’s dreams crushed. A lonesome year would pass and Mariya found herself visiting the old palace in Reza. There, she would be murdered by an unknown assailant. When her body was subsequently located, no funeral was held. Princess Royal Mariya never got elevated to her true potential, but her legacy lived on through her letters, children, and friends. Her lineage would go on to be Emperor Joseph II and the coronation gown she was supposedly planning to don was worn by many Queens of Haense during their own coronations. She is remembered and beloved by many as one of the most influential women in the Empire’s history. X PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, ANTONIYA FRIEDERIKA, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, QUEEN-DOWAGER OF FJORDEM, ABBESS OF FENBEL @Alexi_ Antonia Frederika Barbanov | Antonia van Reza 284 E.S - Unknown E.S | 1731 A.H. - Unknown A.H (12 yrs) Parentage: Andrik III, Milena of Adria Princess Antoniya was born within the walls of the Prikaz in Reza to Andrik III and his Queen-Consort Milena of Adria on the 1st of Godfrey's Triumph, 1731. The arrival of the royal couple’s second child was unexpected and uncelebrated. This created further cracks in an already turbulent marriage and Antoniya would be raised by servants and nurses alike while her parents ran the nation separately. At the age of two, her aunt Mariya was murdered and she would inherit the title of Princess Royal. This filled her mother with glee, quickly planning to find a grand suitor for her daughter. Although, Antoniya was described as rambunctious by palace scholars, one time setting her tutor’s hair aflame. At a certain point, her mother would notice the demeanor of her daughter and began to limit her privileges. Because of Antoniya, the infamous ‘Barbanov Beating Club’ was invented to put out-of-line royals back in line gently. On numerous occasions, she’d threaten to escape the Ekaterinburg but the girl never followed up on the claims. At the age of 11, her mother would pass, leaving her father to deal with the unruly child. By now most everyone in the Empire had heard rumors of the Hanseti Princess Royal, finding her an undesirable match. So at 16, she'd be married off in Aeldin to the foreign ruler Ingvar II, King of Fjordem. Her family hoped that marriage life would quell her distasteful qualities, but alas, Antoniya was miserable. She struggled to find common ground with the culture of her new husband and hated her father for the tortuous life she was now subjected to. Two years into the royal marriage, Ingvar would pass in battle and Antoniya would be brought back to the hanseni capital. For a few short months after her return, Antoniya would reside with her brother, Andrik VI, and his wife, Maya of Muldav. During this period of time, a series of quarrels and disagreements would occur which ended with Antoniya being sent away to a convent at the age of 19. The rest of her life was spent locked away in the Abbey in Fenbel, forbidden from leaving the complex. Secured away and out of sight, Antoniya would suffer mentally and sank into depression. This culminated in the Princess throwing herself off of the bell tower in the abbey and onto a Lorraine cross below, though the date is disputed. XI PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, ANALIESA REZA, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, BARONESS OF ANTIOCH, SAPPHIRE OF REZA @bumblefina Annaliesse Theresa Barbanov | Analiesa van Reza 303 E.S - 334 E.S | 1750 A.H. - 1781 A.H (31 yrs) Parentage: Andrik IV, Maya of Muldav Princess Royal Analiesa Reza was born on the 14th of the Amber Cold, 1750, to Andrik IV and his consort Maya of Muldav. She was the oldest of the Reza triplets and was lovingly assigned the color blue so her mother could tell her and her sisters apart. She was named after the first queen, Reza, and was given her mother's barony, which made her full title: at birth being Analiesa Reza, Princess Royal, Baroness of Antioch, Sapphire of Reza. Analiesa’s childhood was spent inside the Ekaterinburg’s library. She was quiet and mannerly in comparison to her younger sisters and her childlike love for books would extend to her community when she helped reopen the Alimar Memorial Library. She and her sisters spent countless hours organizing books and repairing the damaged shelves from the years of neglect. Abruptly, her youngest sister, Amelya, would be slain in battle against the Scyflings in 1773. Analiesa’s life became largely reserved as she mourned the loss, her time split between the library and the Basilica of Fifty Virgins, praying for the safety of her family. As time passed she’d elope Krisof Surány in 1776 and give birth to a daughter. Even so, she was so lost in grief she’d suffer from an absent mind. Most nights Analiesa wandered into the tavern or her childhood bedroom lost and confused, wondering where her little sisters were. On a rather distressing evening, she’d find comfort in Klaus von Orange’s arms and conceive a child. This was a huge scandal for the royal family who resolved it by locking her away until the baby girl was delivered and sent off to live with the father. Wistfully she’d fall ill shortly after and finally in 1781 Analiesa would succumb to the ailment. She never saw either of her daughters to adulthood and was the second of the Reza triplets to die, her legacy being left behind in Princess Alexandria Karina’s hands. XII PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, NATALIYA REZA, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA @doreebear Natalia Theresa Barbanov | Nataliya van Reza 321 E.S - 366 E.S | 1768 A.H. - 1831 A.H (11 yrs) Parentage: Sigismund II, Viktoriya of Metterden Nataliya Reza, Princess Royal, was infamous for the numerous scandals she was entangled in and her heinous fall from grace. She was named after the city she was born in, the city of New Reza, on the 7th of the Deep Cold, 1768, to Sigismund II and Viktoriya of Metterden. Her birth was acclaimed nationwide for she was the first offspring of the royal couple, showing the kingdom that an heir was shortly on his way. As a child, she spent much of her time dodging her duties as a Princess to instead attend tea parties, weddings, and scout meetings. Remarkably, Nataliya transformed into a dazzling socialite with exceptional manners and knew the ins and outs of court life before the age of 10. However, in private she was known to be wild, taking after her great-aunt Antoniya’s spirit. At the reception to one of the weddings, she attended she’d encounter Petyr Wick, a sickly boy whom she’d grow closer to as they got older. As she began to mature into late adolescence her fierce spirit began to shine. Her comportment became questionable and her gowns scandalous which surrounded the budding Princess with great gossip. In 1781, her mother would plan a large debutante for Nataliya’s 14th birthday. At this celebration, she wore a sheer, shoulderless, gown and was titled Princess Royal of Hanseti-Ruska by her father. Amidst the ball portion of the itinerary, the newly named Princess Royal would exclusively dance with Petyr, rejecting other bachelors to her family's dismay. By sundown at her debutante, Petyr had proposed to Nataliya and she had blissfully accepted. Shockingly the marriage would be forbidden by her mother and brother due to Petyr’s father, a Baruch, being her cousin. Nataliya would fight for her love for a decade, resenting her royal life and visiting the Wick in private. In the end, her brother was fed up with the antics of his older sister and would disown her in 1792. Nataliya lost everything in the disownment, including her role as Princess Royal. Yet, she still had love. Immediately after her disownment wedding invitations were sent out and she’d be wed to Petyr. Between the years 1792 and 1798, they’d have three children together and Nataliya would use her freedom to travel across Almaris. Then in 1813, Nataliya would agree to accompany Lady Margaux Helvets on a trip to Haense. The goal was to visit her brother Ser Aleksandr and her Niece, Princess Royal Katerina. Nonetheless, her hopeful visit would be cut short as the King, Heinrik II, arrested her for treason. Nataliya was promptly taken into custody and tied to a pyre. People in the square screamed and shouted, some wishing her to have a trial and some calling her a witch. As the commotion continued the pyre would be set ablaze and Nataliya began to burn. Numberless eyewitnesses recalled how a single cross bolt whistled through the cries of the crowd and shoved itself right into Nataliya’s chest. To many Hanseti, this is where Nataliya died. Save for a few rumors of her survival and sightings of her that can be attributed to paranoia. XIII PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, KATERINA CECILIYA, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, BARONESS OF ANTIOCH @MissToni Katherine Cecilia Barbanov | Katerina van Karosgrad 347 E.S - Present E.S | 1794 A.H. - Present A.H (18 yrs) Parentage: Josef I, Isabel of Valwyck On the 7th of the Amber’s Cold, 1794, the only daughter of Josef I and Isabel of Valwyck was born. Titled upon her birth Princess Royal and Baroness of Antioch, Katerina Ceciliya was the brightest of her siblings. At a young age, she became renowned for her knowledge of history, fashion, and culture. Nevertheless, the girl took a special interest in medicine, making a promise to her mother to protect her older brother by being a medic. Sooner than anyone expected, her 14th birthday occurred. At her debutante, she was presented with gifts and suitors. Notably, a special diadem was commissioned for her by her father known as The Barbanov Diadem, which became the Diadem all Hanseti Princesses wear at their Debutante. Her brother, a tyrant in the making, found a way to ruin the party with his sour mood and public scrutiny of any suitor. This forsakenment to Katerina caused her to be alone at the conclusion of the celebration in a screaming match with Heinrik. He demanded her to follow his regulations and informed her that she must marry a Duke and could not join the BSK as a field medic. The bitter interaction induced Katerina into proving her worth to the kingdom. She’d research new styles of gowns, publishing Women's Fashion of Hanseti-Ruska, the first fashion-related paper in decades. Katerina later was credited with the popularity of the ‘Sarafan’ style years later. She also started a business called ‘Bihar Goods’ where she sold stuffed animals that looked like famous people in Haense at the time. Eventually, she'd force herself into the BSK in 1809 as an initiate so she could protect her country. All her dedication got her nowhere when her brother, without warning, published a royal missive stripping Katerina of her role as Princess Royal and Baroness of Antioch in 1814. Most assumed it had to do with the popular gossip magazine, Hearsay of Haense, which accused Katerina of being a homosexual for being unbetrothed. The rumors though were never confirmed but left Katerina an outcast in her own kingdom. Regardless, Katerina declined to let the word of a gossip get to her. She'd focus on the BSK and in 1817 during the fearsome battle for Krusev, Katerina would be the first to kill a rock troll and later lead an expedition to recover a group of helpless commoners who were covered in snow due to mages blowing up a mountain side. Now only a Princess, she was authorized to study medicine and for 10 years Katerina cared for the ill and studied under distinguished doctors. In 1824, she was appointed Surgeon General and served for 9 years. Then in 1833, Katerina was relieved of the position in turn for a fresh face, Emma Kortrevich. Almost a year after she was forced to step down, her brother publicly disinherited her from her title ‘Princess’ as well. This left Katerina much like her aunt Nataliya. Free to travel and discover new interests across Almaris. She spent much of her freedom in Providence where she found a new path. Katerina picked up her medic kit, much like she had in her youth and as Surgeon General. She'd serve the injured people of Oren with diligence, and continue to live by her passion and morals. Many considered her not only a failure but a traitor to Haense for her practice of medicine on their enemies and refused to speak the woman's name. Yet, Katerina also redeemed herself and found god. Her greatest achievement came after her reign as Princess Royal when she started off as an acolyte of the Holy Mother Church. Katerina was ordained as the first female priest, starting the Order of Blessed Nicolas and later serving as Bishop of Valwyck and Patriarchate of Jorenus. Still alive, the woman born Katerina Ceciliya, Princess Royal, Baroness of Antioch metamorphosed into the Pontifical Chamberlain, Her Eminence Katerina Cardinal Jorenus through love and passion for change. XIV PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, PETRA EMMA, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, DUCHESS OF KAROSGRAD, BARONESS OF RICHTENBURG @sarahbarah Petrine Emma Barbanov | Petra van Karosgrad 365 E.S - 409 E.S | 1812 A.H. - 1856 A.H (42 yrs) Parentage: Heinrik II, Mariya of Aurveldt Princess Petra was born on the 2nd of the Amber Cold, 1812 to the royal couple Heinrik II and Mariya of Aurveldt. At her birth, she was simply announced as Princess Petra Emma, and not the Princess Royal. New standards for the title of Princess Royal were put into effect where only one Princess may hold it, usually the first born daughter of the King. However, on the 3rd of Snow’s Maiden, 1814, two years after Petra’s birth, her Aunt Katerina would be stripped by Heinrik II of her titles as Princess Royal and Baroness of Antioch. Within the same stately missive, Petra would be dubbed the Princess Royal, Petra Emma, and subsequently, the very first Duchess of Karosgrad, which would change her life forever. Upon taking up the role as Princess Royal, the toddler was expected to be absolutely perfect in every way. She was not allotted a single slip up by her strict father, and lacked any motherly figure since her own had faked her death and fled the Kingdom. Her childhood was filled with little freedom, in which most of it was spent learning about family history, etiquette, and religion. Nevertheless, the Princess still frolicked in her youth. She learned medicine and enjoyed helping people. At one point, reports state she had met a peasant boy whom she had come to cherish dearly, though eventually cast aside so that she could attend to her royal duties. It also reported that the Hearsay of Haense described her as a blooming rose in the tainted soil that was the Barbanov family. At the age of 9, she gave a speech for the 25th anniversary of Karosgrad, which the crowd responded to with loud cheers. Everyone found Petra to be charming and elegant. Because of her cheerful wit and personality, many yearned for a favourable marriage with the Princess, though the King forcibly turned down many bachelors for the Princess Royal’s hand, and famously, she was left dancing with her best friends instead of eligible men at her debutante. The celebration was cut short as one masked brigand made an attempt on the Princess Royal’s life, though she came out unscathed due to Igor Kort’s intervention. The Lord Speaker and famed tutor of the Princess died right before her very eyes, which left the Princess deeply scarred for many years. After her subsequent recovery, Petra was expected to find a suitor. She could not find a match that her father deemed suitable for almost 6 years, so in the meantime, Petra threw herself into studying medicine further, much like her Aunt Katerina did. She worked under Surgeon General Emma Kortrevich, learning the ways of herbs and even surgery. Finally, in 1835, the Princess Royal would become engaged to Yvo Mondblume, the Baron of Richtenburg. The pair were happily married in the Basilica of St. Heinrik, and Petra wore the gown of her late grandmother, Queen Isabel of Valwyck. The couple had 8 children together and lived a cheerful life, until her husband suddenly went comatose due to an accident that had occurred during the construction of their keep. Consequently, Petra had to take up the reigns as Baroness-Regent of Richtenburg for 10 years until her eldest was finally old enough to ascend to the role of Baron. The strain of leading caused irreversible damage within her household. Her children loathed and resented her for abandoning them and prioritizing the wellbeing of the house over their own happiness. In her final years, Petra drove everyone away by reason of her own self doubt and anxiety. She wondered if she had lived up to her father’s dreams for her - as a mother, as a medic, and as princess. Ultimately, her life came to an end when she fell from the walls of Ghaestendwald in what seemed to be a freak accident. Many people mourned the loss and streets and businesses were named after the famed and beloved Princess Royal. XV PRINZENAS ROYAL HER SERENE HIGHNESS, ANALIESA JOSEFINA, PRINCESS ROYAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA, DUCHESS OF KAROSGRAD, GRAND LADY OF HANSETI-RUSKA, DUCHESS-CONSORT OF VIDAUS @PerfectlyPeachy Annaliesse Josephine Barbanov | Analiesa van Karosgrad 428 E.S - 482 E.S | 1876 A.H. - 1930 A.H (40 yrs) Parentage: Karl III, Amadea of Susa Princess Analiesa Josefina was born the older of a pair of royal twins early in 428, titled Duchess of Kreden upon birth. Her parents, Karl III and Amadea of Susa, were ecstatic for their first and only girl to be brought into the world and in such a healthy state. Doctors in the room, when it happened later, stated that the girl had such a pair of lungs on her that she broke the glass with her screams: an omen for the rest of the Princess's life. Amadea of Susa favored the very public lifestyle she grew up with, presenting her daughter at the young age of five with a stately celebration for her birthday. At said party, an air house was set up and broke mid-party from another child’s knife as they attempted to murder Analiesa. This was the first of many calamities that plagued the young Princess's life which was only worsened by her atrocious demeanor. Spoiled throughout her adolescence as the only daughter of the Monarchs, she became accustomed to loud, violent, public arguments with the nobility of the kingdom. Most tutors thought of her as a headache and were either fired or quit before full courses could be completed and servants fled at the sight of her in the palace walls. But because both of her parents were so occupied with subjects of the state and their own failing marriage, they were unable to correct her unruly behavior. Amadea would heighten the pressure to behave as Analiesa grew older, promising the Princess the role of Princess Royal on her sixteenth birthday if she were able to prove herself. In an attempt to cope with the new restrictive rules on her lifestyle, Analiesa began to drink and host private parties, roping other noble children into her mischief so if they were caught, she would not take the blame. This became known as the young revealers society and subsequently was renamed to the Raev House under new management in Vladev. Around her 12th birthday in 440, her father would finally catch wind of his daughter's corrupted conduct and stripped her of all fineries, sending her out into the chilling hills outside of Karosgrad to learn to fend for herself. This experience not only shocked Analiesa into becoming a diligent member of society but also influenced her memoir, What is a Princess Without Her People. In 442 E.S. her mother awarded her for her self-awareness and titled her Princess Royal and Duchess of Karosgrad. Analiesa immediately put herself to work in an effort to better herself for the kingdom and aided in the completion of the handmaiden etiquette of 443 and the planning of the 443 Lifstala season. She would debut in this season as well, pursuing a nuptial with the heir to the Duke of Vidaus. Simultaneously, the Hearsay of Hanseti-Ruska made a final appearance, commenting on the private attitude of the Princess Royal as well as questioning her morals. The foremost criticism they had was how she allowed the Ruthern boys, Aleksandr and Vladimir to openly brawl for her hand in marriage. This spawned a lifetime of rivalry that led to many skirmishes between the brothers, most of which were during Lifstala. The angelic socialite personality Analiesa had worked for seemingly fell apart as the public opinion of her turned sour. Not only this, but her father would withhold her engagement to the heir of Vidaus, only desiring a marriage of love for his only daughter. The denial allured Analiesa into fleeing to Ba’as for over a year with Cardinal Katerina. When she came back to Karosgrad, she had lost much of her weight and was rumored to have been harming herself or planning to poison herself. These remarks continued to be why Karl denied his daughter's engagement to Aleksandr, fearing that he was the reason why Analiesa wished to disservice herself. The pair would toil together for years, attempting to prove to Karl and Amadea that their love was pure and true. However, Analiesa’s cloak of lies was easily overlooked and the genuine nature of their acquaintanceship was one of hatred. Ultimately, the passing of her grandmother Queen Emma was the final straw for any sanity Analiesa held onto, grieving violently for years until 446 when she would host the Karanina Exhibit. In the same year, her father would endorse her betrothal to the heir. During their engagement, Analiesa’s mother would finish her reformations of the court into a Major council and a Minor council. Analiesa herself would sit in the position of Grand Lady alongside Amadea as Queen. In 452, after an elongated period of courting, Analiesa and Aleksandr, now the Duke of Vidaus, would marry. In accordance with Analiesa’s nature, a last night of freedom was hosted the evening before followed by the ceremony the next morning in which onlookers noted how both she and the groom stumbled down the aisle. Following the Ducal espousal, Analiesa and Aleksandr would give birth to their first child during the Inferni Siege of 454. Analiesa was kept in the crypts of Karosgrad for safety, charged with the protection of the rest of the women and children. As she delivered her daughter, she went into a violent seizure that almost killed her, before finally her husband joined her at her side in the city's Clinic. As the sun dawned the following day, the Inferni were fought off successfully and Elizaveta “Comet-born” was delivered as the last meteor flew across a sky of red. For four years, the Ducal family lived in peace as both Analiesa and Aleksandr slowly adjusted to parenthood. But yet, another tragedy swept up Analiesa as both her mother and father died in 458. This led her to abandon her parenting of Elizaveta and her title as Grand Lady. Then after the birth of her second child Viktor, she began to exploit substances as she had as an adolescent. The spiral of grief would have lasted years as it did for her Grandmother, but her father had left her husband a sacred relic in his will. Karl asked the Ruthern to destroy Norland for being heathens, leaving this job to Duke Aleksandr. Analiesa went along with this plot as she was greedy for a chance to be in charge, to be coveted and respected like her mother. But this imposition on Norland did not go unpunished - the nobles of Karosgrad petitioned King Georg and formed a federation against the Rutherns in hopes of demoting the Ducal household. This was met with the Ruthern’s own league of opposing nobles and ended with a brief and private statement from the King, stopping any more attacks on Norland. Following this minor defeat to her ego, Analiesa focused on parenting her children. She was strict and domineering, using corporeal punishment such as whipping the backs of her kin's legs with sticks. She was scared of them inheriting her traits and continuing her cycle of unruly behavior as a child. As well during this period, Analiesa got into a very physical quarrel with Fransizka Ruthern, the Duchess of Valwyck. Analiesa had aided in her cousin-in-law's marriage to Vlademar, made her a handmaiden, and overall made sure to raise her in society and now Franziska wanted to leave Haense to adventure with her husband. This drove Analiesa to do the only thing she knew how to do, attack. The subject of this abandonment was brought up at a family dinner and Analiesa picked up a pie, slamming it into her cousin's face which ushered a full-out fistfight to break out. It only ended as four fully grown Ruthern men stepped in to split it up. The immeasurable stress Analiesa was under culminated in her disappearance from court matters as she focused solely on the health of her eldest daughter, Elizaveta, for the comet-born girl was gravely ill. Dreadfully, months after the heir's sixteenth birthday she would succumb to her ailments. Anguish gripped the Princess Royal’s heart, turning it to stone. Moments after the death, the Surgeon General's employees would go on to insult her husband and Analiesa would take action, slugging him across the face and breaking his nose. Sadly, she never got over Elizaveta’s death, viewing her firstborn as the only redeeming factor of her life's malice. Furthermore, her youngest daughter would die in the fall of Karosgrad merely a couple of years later. As the Ruthern family valiantly protected the kingdom outside, Petra Lorina hid in the palace apartments, afraid to leave. Analiesa was convinced that Petra had already fled, but in fact, she was caught in the palace as a ceiling collapsed upon her. Henceforth, she, her husband, and their four remaining children would venture to the new capital of Valdev in Aveos, and Analiesa, heart heavy with loss, found new distractions. She’d aid the new Queen, Sofiya of Hyspia, in celebrating the first Lifstala of the new continent by organizing the sign-ups and planning events. While everyone was gathered in the Esrova Palace's ballroom for the season's final ball, Georg would vanish without a trace and would be assumed dead. Consequently, when Analiesa heard of her brother's departure she would spiral as she had done before for other loved ones abandoning her. However this time it was different. She was old and yearning for her lost daughters, reportedly speaking to the very much-gone Elizaveta in her final weeks. This exchange led to her committing suicide in the Ruthern manor within the city of Valdev. Her death would mark the end of her legacy as Princess Royal, Duchess of Karosgrad, and Duchess of Vidaus. She was wildly successful, fulfilling her roles as a mother and as a Princess which has notably been the most deadly job of a woman in Haense. While many mourned her loss, there was equally a populace that celebrated for she was considered a tyrant to all those who did not acquaint themselves well enough.

A Spring Palace Fashion Show UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 10th day of Msitza ag Dargund of 437 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK With the proper settling of ve Morrivi Prikaz, the Queen’s Council of Amadea Ulyssa deems it appropriate to lessen the burden of the updating of the Haeseni Capital upon the treasury of the Crown. The tailors found nestled within the Spring Courts have been hard at work, preparing a multitude of garments to be auctioned out within Karosgrad’s Palace, the proceeds of said auction directed back towards the Haeseni people themselves. Illustrations of the crafted garments have been provided below. On the tenth day of Tov ag Yermey, 438 E.S, the Wards of the Royal courts shall model the articles for the general populace to purchase. THE ARTICLES In spoiler: IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. His Excellency, Mikhail Tuvya var Ruthern, Grand Lord of the Morrivi Court, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South

VE FEAST I VIKZ THE VICTORS’ FEAST UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 8th day of Msizita ag Dargund of 436 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK The Kingdom of Haense is at current experiencing prosperity the likes of which have scarcely been recorded in history. With the EATO victory in the war for the Silver Isle, a golden age of peace has been secured for all of Almaris, one wholly worth celebrating – a celebration that has sadly yet to occur. The Queen’s Council of Hanseti-Ruska therefore seeks to mend this error, and invites subjects of the Grand Kingdom of Urguan and Grand Duchy of Balian, as well as the Ferrymen, to break bread in the halls of the Morrivi Prikaz in the company of the Haeseni people. Wine will flow as the brave men and women who drew steel in the face of our enemies tell the stories of their great victories. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Ladyship, Zoya Ivanna vas Ruthern, Court Custodian of Hanseti-Ruska

FESTIVAL I DERYZCZ FESTIVAL OF HOPE UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 11th day of Joma ag Umund of 432 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK Too long has our kingdom been without two essential portions of its leadership. As balance is restored within the Crown with the return of His Royal Majesty, Karl III, so too is it returned to the Aulic Council as Her Excellency, Isabel Baruch returns as its head. In the face of all that is to occur within our Kingdom in the upcoming years, there is no better time than the present to celebrate. Thus, the Queen’s Council of Amadea Ulyssa decrees a three-month spanning festival shall be held within Karosgrad grounds to appreciate the various spoils of the city and welcome home the missing two. SCHEDULE FOR THE FESTIVITIES ON THE 14TH DAY OF VZMEY AG HYNK I. JOUST All chivalrous men and women in service to His Majesty are invited to take up the lance and saddle their horse on the sands of the Hippodrome. The arena shall be outfitted to serve as a tiltyard, where lancers shall face off in a traditional joust. They shall complete three passes, with each hit adding a point to their total. He who either unhorses his opponent or gains the most points will be declared the victor. In the event of a tie, the contestants are to engage in mounted combat until one is knocked from his saddle. He who emerges victorious at the end of the tournament shall be dubbed ‘Master of the Lance,’ in recognition of their prowess in the saddle. II. ARCHERY Those who attended the Lifstala of His Majesty will surely remember the contest of archery that took place. A similar setup that King Karl III attempted during the season will be erected once more for any prospective marksmen to shoot their shot. Those who strike all four targets with only four arrows will be rewarded. III. CONTEST OF STRENGTH An elf from the lands of Celian’or has brought a most interesting machine to the Dual-Kingdom. It has been rumoured to be a better measure of strength than that at the tavern, so all strongmen and women of Hanseti-Ruska are invited to test these claims. Those deemed the strongest shall walk away 200 minae wealthier. IV. DUNK TANK Due to popular demand, the dunk tank present at the recent carnival shall return for the first day only. A strong arm and an accurate throw are essential if one seeks to send the poor soul sat on the tank into the frigid waters below. V. MAZE OF MYSTERY Each guest is invited to make one attempt at traversing the hedge maze of the Nikirala as quickly as they can. One may do this at any time during the day’s festivities, so long as their attempt is overseen by a member of the Queen’s Council or one in their employ. VI. FACE PAINTING The young Adelajda vas Ruthern shall make yet another appearance to paint the faces of her fellow children. The young Lady will be manning a stall, just before the entrance to the Hippodrome. Pricing once again is fixed at 10 minae per face painted, and such is non-negotiable. VII. THE MARKET Any merchants who wish to display their goods during the day’s festivities are invited to contact the Queen or Grand Lady. Should their proposal be accepted, they shall be given a temporary stall beyond the walls of the Hippodrome to do business from. (OOC: Friday, 8th July, 6pm EST) --- ON THE 12TH DAY OF GRONNA AG DROBA I. JULIYAFEST The Juliyafest of 433 E.S. shall be held in the gardens. Here, suitors and maidens shall be presented with an assortment of coloured fabrics. Those in attendance are to choose one of said fabrics, each of which will correlate to some aspect of their personality. Based on their choice, each suitor shall be assigned a lady with whom he is to spend the day, enjoying various games and festivities that shall be revealed when the time comes. (OOC: Saturday, 9th July, 4pm EST) --- ON THE 12TH DAY OF TOV AG YERMEY I. ROYAL COURT OF 433 E.S. As his Royal Majesty returns, so too does a regular function of the crown. Royal Court shall be held within the throneroom of ve Nikirala Prikaz at the start of the month. The King shall give announcements on the state of the Kingdom, as well as accept petitioners. II. ATTIRE TO THE BALL All those wishing to attend the ball are implored to dress in only their finest. Their Majesties ask that each garment be bright, cut from colourful fabric, and intricately detailed. Restrictions on the wearing of gold are once more waived for the nobility, who are encouraged to line their garments with the metal should they wish. III. THEATRICS OF THE YOUTH The wards of the kingdom shall put on a short play in the Karosgrad theatre, open to all who might wish to attend it. There are to be no invitations, nor will there be any particular pomp surrounding the event. Adults are simply expected to sit respectfully in the audience, whilst any children may make their way backstage to participate in the play itself. IV. DRINKING CONTEST Any who think themselves the bearer of a sturdy liver are to present themselves to the Queen, where she shall host a contest of drinking. As not to overcomplicate the event, the rules are quite simple. He who remains on his feet after downing the most drink shall be declared the winner. V. THE JESTER Acclaimed jester and Aulic Envoy to the Crown, Matyas Baruch, shall once again slip on his oversized shoes and entertain the masses. He will wander the venue, performing tricks and stunts for any who ask it of him, free of charge. (OOC: Sunday, 10th July, 4:30pm EST) IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Excellency, Georgina Sofiya Barclay, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska, Princess of Sutica, Duchess-Dowager of Reinmar, Margravine-Dowager of Vanderfell, Countess-Dowager of Freimark and Kretzen, Baroness-Dowager of Madvon, Freising and Sigradz

KURATELA TIZIV VE DWORY GERIBANKEN WARDSHIP IN THE ROYAL COURTS UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 4th day of Jula ag Piov of 432 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK Whilst wardship has been defined in the past and explained through the centuries, this guide is to expand upon what occupies the wards and children of the realm, as well as their tutors and other scholar-based courtly positions. This pronouncement is erected for the purpose of education and the implementation of a system for wardship, designed by the Queen-Consort, Amadea of Susa. The writings of this missive are to act as regulations, where there is not an excuse to unknowing loiter and attend what is not permitted. TUTORING & EDUCATORS It is crucial that the children of the Kingdom are held to a high educational standard, constantly evolving in their endeavours and gaining as much knowledge as they possibly can. This cannot be achieved without the assistance of the court tutors, the cardinal, and further established figures. COURT GOVERNORS The position of governor is reserved for only the most highly educated among the courts. It is their duty to take up the mantle of mentor, passing on their knowledge to the youth with enthusiasm. Educators of the nobility tend to be either distantly noble themselves, of the gentry class, or particularly well-educated commoners. Those who are well-blooded and of high prestige are unsuited to such a position, as to do so shows that one has little prospects elsewhere. Those who tend to the royalty are of the greatest intelligence and character with noble blood, though all governors are wholly knowledgeable, for they are hand-picked by the Queen herself. --- FURTHER STUDIES In matters beyond the sphere of general knowledge, children of high standing should expect to be educated by a tutor of outstanding aptitude in their subject. Unlike the more general knowledge required of a governor, these tutors are to teach one singular topic, so as to not spread their wisdom thin. Etiquette shall be taught by a tutor of the courts, religion by a cardinal, arts with the oversight of their Mistress, and so on and so forth. It is imperative the royal children, as well as those of the nobility, are taught by such individuals. They are further expected to be capable and comfortable with defending themselves and their kingdom should circumstances demand it. To ensure their competence, men of the Brotherhood and Knights of Hanseti-Ruska are often employed by noblemen and women as instructors of swordsmanship. EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS Whilst every child holds the right to an education, not all children are to receive the same level of mentoring, whether this be due to their status at birth, or their decisions in regards to employment and study. Education of the youth is vitally important to the preservation of the Kingdom, and it is expected that all classes of subject understand the importance of the separation of the classes in both education and the kingdom at large. ROYAL EDUCATION The education of the royalty is rightfully superior to that of their subjects, for it is they who are to rule Hanseti-Ruska and represent it abroad. All royal children are to be tutored by a court governor who will refine their social etiquette and ensure their manners are up to date with the guidelines released by the inner council. It must be noted that those born of the direct line are forbidden from serving on said council, namely in the positions of Grand Lady, Court Chamberlain, and Palace Custodian. The children of the monarch are expected to undergo training beneath the Brotherhood of Saint Karl, in order to prepare them to defend the kingdom over which their line rules. They are required to learn only the basics of swordplay, horsemanship, and archery, though should they wish to indulge further they are encouraged to do so. --- NOBLE EDUCATION The education of noble children shall be of a greatly higher quality to that of a lowborn, though still it shall not compare to that of the royalty. As such, they are forbidden, alongside their peasant counterparts, from intruding upon lessons intended for the royal children. The well-blooded shall be taught the latest on etiquette, and are encouraged to pursue positions on Her Majesty’s inner council. It must be noted that there is an exception to the aforementioned rules. All children of the Grand Lady, Court Chamberlain and Palace Custodian are entitled to receive lessons with the royal tutors, and are to be afforded the same respect a tutor would show to the royalty. --- COMMON EDUCATION Lowborn children shall not be afforded the luxury of a court tutor and do not hold the privilege of being able to attend lessons with the nation’s premier educators unless the session is broadened to include peasantry. Most often, peasant children are educated solely by their parents or relatives. Should they wish to serve in the courts of Hanseti-Ruska, they may do so as an apprentice to a lady’s maid, kitchen servant, or similar occupation. They are strictly prohibited from attending the private tutoring of the nobility and royalty, and shall be punished accordingly should they be found to have done so. INTRODUCTION TO THE COUNCIL The Queen’s Council holds many seats within it, with each varying greatly in prestige and duties. With these positions are the unified duty of the council to plan and host events throughout the kingdom, which will ensure the morale of His Majesty’s subjects are consistently high. Whether it be the Grand Lady or a waiting maid, each of these positions are most essential to the function of the realm. WARDSHIP Wardship begins the very moment a child has their fifth nameday, and shall start them down the path they wish to follow in life. One may choose from a variety of paths, such as service beneath the Queen’s Council, an Aulic Councillor, the stewards, a knight, or the Brotherhood of Saint Karl. The more a child shows eagerness to learn in their field, the more favour they shall curry with their mentors. Such will surely bode well for them in future endeavours. A ward of the Queen’s Council shall have full access to the seated members of said council, as well as the Queen herself. Each member of the inner council is particularly expected to aid in the raising of the kingdom’s children, for the Queen and tutors already bear much of the burden. The Queen is expected to draft a set of tasks for each ward, which they are to complete and report to Her Majesty. Such a list will consist of achievable and entertaining tasks and goals to reach, befitting the age and ability of each individual ward. --- LADIES-IN-WAITING On the eighteenth nameday of a female ward, she shall become suitable to be selected by Her Majesty as one of her many ladies-in-waiting. It is expected that girls who excel in their efforts serving as a ward are afforded much favour in the selection process, and most often are raised into Her Majesty’s entourage. These girls may, once selected as a lady-in-waiting, compete amongst themselves for a seat on the inner council or, even, a place on the most esteemed Aulic Council. It should be noted that ladies of any class may become a lady-in-waiting, but only those of noble or gentry birth may move forward to become a Grand Lady, Court Chamberlain, or Palace Custodian, while others can become another position in the Inner Council. Ladies-in-waiting are to be held in high regard, as questioning their character is to question the Queen herself, as she blatantly gave them her favour. They were chosen for their greatness and should be treated accordingly. --- EVENT COLLABORATORS The position of Event Collaborator is one that any subject of His Majesty is encouraged to take up. Under the direction of the Queen’s Council they are to assist in the hosting of festivities throughout the kingdom, and to a limited degree, the planning of such. One who performs exceptionally shall surely find themselves poised to begin climbing the hierarchy of the Queen’s Council. This path is most commonly taken by young wards that have freshly reached their eighteenth nameday who were not selected by the Queen to become a lady-in-waiting. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Excellency, Georgina Sofiya Barclay, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska, Princess of Sutica, Duchess-Dowager of Reinmar, Margravine-Dowager of Vanderfell, Countess-Dowager of Freimark and Kretzen, Baroness-Dowager of Madvon, Freising and Sigradz Her Royal Highness, Dorothea Isabel Barbanov-Bihar, Court Chamberlain of Hanseti-Ruska, Princess of Hanseti-Ruska, Duchess-Dowager of Schattenburg

Published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe 10th of Tov ag Yermey, 429 E.S. Dedicated to my loving husband The Style of Mourning Dearest Readers, Moda i ve Kort has served dutifully under the prior rule of Koenas Emma, and shall continue to provide insight on Courtly fashion. Since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan wear, the devoted Mistress of the Wardrobe is obliged to continue her service under the household of Koenas Amadea. To build upon legacies and provide regulation of fashion standards is a great honor. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: The Style of Mourning "I wear mourning because it corresponds with my feelings." ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Mourning Periods ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Mourning periods are defined as a subjective amount of time spent publicly displaying the grief of a lost one. Appropriate times correlate with the personal relationship a pair shared. For those who are unaware, a proper guide shall be listed prior to the fashion of mourning. Direct Family Direct family consists of blood relations and spouses. For each, there are distinct amounts of time that it would be considered openly respectable to mourn a loved one. To spend more or less time would be seen as strange, marking the individual as overly or inadequately emotional over the demise. ↠ For a spouse, 6 months ↠ For offspring, 1 year ↠ For a parent, 1 year ↠ For a sibling, 6 months ↠ For a grandparent, 6 months ↠ For an aunt or uncle, 3 months ↠ For a cousin, 3 months Friends Friendship is much harder to define an appropriate amount of time that is considered proper to publicly mourn. Usually, 1 months is sufficient. Although, in cases where the friend lost was a best friend or a long time and trusted companion, an extended amount of time is considered common. Yet more than 4 months is viewed as peculiar since the pair shared no blood relation. Rumors can easily spiral that the two were more than friends, which is exactly what is recommended to avoid. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Female Mourning ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ─ ☆ ─ For women in Hanseti-Ruska society, it is highly pertinent that they have decent mourning attire at all times in their life. You are more likely to see a woman in mourning than a man due to women's connections to their feelings and how it reflects in their fashion. Female Dress While common fashion trends strive to be the most eccentric and show off the owners wealth, mourning fashion is a battle of who can be the most simplistic. It's considered unorthodox for a woman to don an immodest, colorful, and rich garment when in the mourning period. Colors consist of black, grays, and whites. For the loss of family, the primary color of the family is worn. Or, in the loss of a child or friend, the favorite color of the individual is worn as an accent. Longer veils are permitted so all hair may be covered. Commonly, veils are of bright colors, but in mourning they are either black or white. Sometimes, the veil covers the face and bust as well. More of a sheer fabric is appropriate when concealing the face. It is customary that questions are not to be directed at a woman wearing a veil over her face as the veil is meant to signify silence within the mourning period. Female Accessories Despite the fact that mourning appearance is simplistic, accessories are good for covering the skin and differentiating between classes. Gloves Gloves are considered a must-have in the cold climate of Haense, and are the perfect way to show modesty and close to god in the time of grief. They are made of tough fabrics with fur inlays to keep the fingers warm. They also protect the women's hands from hard labor. Small details may be embroidered onto the gloves as well, possibly in significance to their lost loved one. Lace Trim Lace trimming is added to the edges of skirts and hems that require spatial separation from previous parts of the garment. Those of higher class and wealth can afford to commission renowned lace-makers that can tell stories through their craft. Special lace with family emblems, animals, or the story of one's life may be made. Ornate Jewelry Jewelry is treated as something unwearable when mourning, but with careful treatment of the accessories, they can be worn. Rings besides family emblems and wedding bands shouldn’t be worn, necklaces, earrings, and headpieces are advised to not be donned. Kokoshnik are entirely improper for any status of an individual, even if an heirloom. Even royalty are expected to keep their tiaras and circlets minimal, often wearing just simple gold or silver without any gemstones. However, there are three exceptions. Firstly, if the jewelry belonged to the deceased it would be considered “carrying oneself with you”. Secondly, pearls are the gem of death and class. They are the only style gem that is relevant, and therefore can be worn. Lastly, Lorraine or Hussariyan crosses of any metal and style. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Male Mourning ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ─ ☆ ─ Men in Hanseti-Ruska have a much more relaxed and less-strict code for mourning fashion, whereas women are seen as improper for not dressing in blacks after someone close has died. Men have much more freedom in their public display of loss. It would hardly be strange for a man to not display mourning attire at all. Subsequently, for those who do decide to follow the standards, you’ll find they are much like the women. Male Dress Men in the Kingdom of Haense already tend to wear duller colors, so it would not be hard for them to put together a garment consisting of the proper mourning colors. These are black, gray, brown, and whites. The plainness of the colors can be accented by the family's primary color. An example would be if a member of the House of Barclay died, those related to him would don blue, green, and blacks. These colors could of course also be darker than their typical vibrancy to fit the occasion. Characteristically, men also wrap themselves in cloaks and furs. These styles would be in place of the female veil. They would be of darker colors and cover shoulders and the back of the individual. The most popular fur being black bear. Male Accessories Once more, mourning fashion is quite simple and similar among genders. Men share the same standards as women for jewelry. The only difference is all the metal they choose to wear should be silver out of respect for the deceased. The main difference between their garbs is that instead of veils, men wear furs, cloaks, and hats. Hats cover one's head in protection from the cold, but also serve as a reminder of one's authority and power over harsh emotions. Signed, HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Amadea of Susa, Queen-consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-consort of Varna, Baroness-consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Ladyship, Nikoleta Barbara Baruch Mistress of the Wardrobe Her Ladyship, Margot Sofiya Baruch Head Assistant to the Mistress of the Wardrobe

VE KOENAS KONKILO QUEEN’S COUNCIL OF AMADEA ULYSSA UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 6th day of Wzuvar ag Byvca of 428 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK With the ascension of His Majesty Karl III to the mantle of King, so too does his wife, Queen-Consort Amadea of Susa, inherit the court of the Queen. With the recent reformation of the Aulic Council, the Queen seeks to finally formalise the positions that make up her own. Charged with managing the courtiers and culture of the kingdom, the Queen’s Council cannot be allowed to slip into stagnation. The Council of the Queen is split into two, which are the inner and general councils. The Inner Council is responsible for arguably the most laborious of tasks within the courts, and are overseen by the governmental representative of the Queen; the Grand Lady. The General Council, composed of aspirants seeking to prove themselves in Her Majesty’s courts, are handpicked courtiers from among the nobility who show potential for swift ascension through the hierarchy of the courts. For the desire of clarity, and to avoid any misconceptions held regarding the structure of the courts, Queen Amadea of Susa hopes that the publishing of this document aids the populace to cast aside any potential confusion. THE CONSORT HER ROYAL MAJESTY, AMADEA OF SUSA, QUEEN-CONSORT OF HANSETI-RUSKA XVII KOENAS-KONSORT @shay The Consort wields absolute authority in the courts of Hanseti-Ruska, and both manages its administration as well as the stylings of its denizens. When not assisting the Monarch in the ruling of the kingdom, by their directive the court is to always be filled with promising courtiers, who are to hold events for the realm and keep its nobility entertained. The Consort is furthermore held to be the pinnacle of morality and etiquette for all future consorts and young wards that are brought beneath their care. Within this position, they are to helm the Queen’s Council with the assistance of their appointed Grand Lady; a position that must always be filled. As well should they interact with at length is the Mistress of the Whispers, with whom the Consort is to work alongside in order to obtain and spread word on the affairs of the nobility. As well as this, should the Grand Lady prove incapable or resign, they are to take over the duties of the position and lead the council themselves until a replacement is found. THE GRAND LORD HIS EXCELLENCY, MIKHAIL TUVYA VAR RUTHERN, DUKE OF VIDAUS XXI HAUCHERZEN 437 E.S. - Present | 1884 A.H. - Present Monarch(s): Amadea Ulyssa @indiana105 Atop the hierarchy of the Inner Council reigns the Grand Lady, who is charged with ensuring all vacant positions on the Queen’s Council are filled and thereafter well-managed. They oversee the workings of the Palace Custodian and the Court Chamberlain to ensure that any events they seek to host are befitting of the royal venue. The Grand Lady, thought to be the most venerable and competent of the council, should strive for excellence within the courts and see to it that all of the staff in service to their Majesties conduct their duties appropriately. A deep understanding of courtly affairs is required of one in this position, for they must provide lessons in etiquette and proper performance to aspiring courtiers. As a cultural figurehead of the nation both internally and externally, this position is appointed by the King and Queen to the Aulic Council, and must bear the patience required of such high status. THE PALACE CUSTODIAN THE RIGHT REVEREND, MOTHER MAYA OF VIDAUS VII KUSTOSZ I VE PRIKAZ 444 E.S. - Present | xxxx A.H. - Present Monarch(s): Amadea Ulyssa @milkyi The Palace Custodian is responsible for the general upkeep of and holding of events in the Palace, and as well offers their input toward the administration of the servantry of said establishment. As a member of the Inner Council, their duties detail that they are to hold events such as dinners and balls within the confines of the royal abode, though they are invited to go beyond this should they wish. It is encouraged, as it is of all their Majesty’s staff, that they work alongside the Chamberlain of the council in order to ensure the smooth organisation of events between them. If either of these positions are unfilled while the other is occupied, the one who holds the title of either Chamberlain or Custodian is to take on the duties of the other. It is expected that they ensure the adherence of those within the palace to Haeseni culture and proper etiquette. THE COURT CHAMBERLAIN HER LADYSHIP, MAEVE ISOBEL MOROVAR, BARONESS CONSORT OF GHAESTENWALD XVI KAMBELAN I VE KORT 437 E.S. - Present | 1884 A.H. - Present Monarch(s): Amadea Ulyssa @_mady07 The Court Chamberlain ensures the streets of Karosgrad are at all times bustling with whirl and cheer. The position is largely the counterpart of the Palace Custodian, and thus holds the same level of prestige within the Inner Council. To contrast the two positions, the Custodian is often one who is more trusted and experienced due to their close proximity to their Majesties and the royal courts, while the Chamberlain is tasked with holding events outside of the palace in the capital. Such events may include festivals, tournaments, markets, or theatrical performance, though are not limited to the aforementioned. The Chamberlain is expected as well to work closely alongside the elected Grand Maer of Karosgrad to collaborate on projects for the overall betterment of the nation, and that they too ensure proper culture and etiquette is upheld within the palace by all courtiers. SECRETARY TO THE QUEEN HIS EXCELLENCY, SER GRIGORI ALEKSANDR VYRONOV, MARIAN KNIGHT OF HANSETI-RUSKA IV SEKRATORZ VA VE KOENAS 416 E.S. - Present | 1863 A.H. - Present Monarch(s): Emma Karenina, Amadea Ulyssa @mkLouis The Secretary to the Queen is to act as the head courier and scribe of the Queen’s Council, and thus requires the utmost experience in penmanship. They are tasked with drafting both official missives on behalf of the Grand Lady or Her Majesty, as well as personal letters for the latter. Furthermore, during sittings of the council they are to write minutes, which are to be passed on to the Queen for review. Similar to many of the other courtly positions, this role is of as much importance as the one who holds it, for it is their drive and willingness to partner and serve the council that shall determine their worth. MISTRESS OF THE ROBES HER LADYSHIP, NIKOLETA BARBARA BARUCH I HERZENAS I VE RZATIKY 403 E.S. - Present | 1850 A.H. - Present Monarch(s): Emma Karenina, Amadea Ulyssa @zuziee Responsible for upholding the dress etiquette of the Dual-Kingdom, the Mistress of the Robes draws the lines for what is appropriate and inappropriate in the courts and what should be reserved for the royalty, nobility, and common classes. As much of the code has been written prior, this position is mostly focused on the enforcement of said code. To maintain decorum and proper etiquette, the Mistress may allocate some of her responsibilities to both assistants and wards alike. MISTRESS OF THE ARTS HER LADYSHIP, THEODOYSA CECILYA BARCLAY, SURGEON GENERAL OF HANSETI-RUSKA I HERZENAS I VE ISTZULA 430 E.S. - Present | 1877 A.H. - Present Monarch(s): Amadea Ulyssa As the Mistress of the Arts, this position shall be charged with training courtiers in the various arts, and thus the holder must excel in the subject themselves. They should seek to advance the realm culturally by either publishing their own or others’ poetry and paintings. Further, they should employ playwrights and musicians so that the courts remain lively, as well to host lessons for nobles in dance or song. MISTRESS OF THE WHISPERS [REDACTED] I HERZENAS I VE WZEPTANI Monarch(s): Amadea Ulyssa Intended to inform the Queen of the ongoing affairs in her courts, the position of the Mistress of the Whispers has been established. Their identity is to be concealed from all but their Majesties, for this position is to formally take up the mantle of an official writer for the Hearsay of Hanseti-Ruska, and is to be exempted from any punishment that might come their way as a result. CURATOR OF THE CROWN JEWELS [VACANT] II KURATOR I VE KRAWN JEWLZ Monarch(s): Amadea Ulyssa For those who consider themselves well-versed in the fineries of life, the Curator of the Crown Jewels is a position which handles the most prestigious and revered historical pieces of jewellery in all the Kingdom. In particular, they are to maintain the Crown Jewels of the monarchy, and are tasked with creating new pieces at the behest of their Majesties. Working hand in hand with the Mistress of the Robes, the Curator of the Haeseni Crown Jewels assists in pairing certain pieces with individual members of the royal lineage, and ensures the safety of said pieces within the palace. HEAD OF THE SERVANTRY MISS HELENA BISHOP III GZAVI I VE TSAJERNARI 416 E.S. - Present | 1863 A.H. - Present Monarch(s): Emma Karenina, Amadea Ulyssa @Based1Salmon The Head of Servantry works alongside the Palace Custodian, bearing the brunt of the responsibility for maintaining the servants of the court. A bustling palace is a hustling palace, and thus their duties require they hire and train new servants for their Majesties. They are to create opportunities in the palace, as well as host the occasional event within the palace for those they employ. As well as this, they are tasked with overseeing the serving of food, the entertainment of visitors, the cleaning of the palace, and the wellbeing of the Royal Family. The Head of Servantry must ensure every member of their staff is active and contributing, whilst also ensuring that the members of the Queen’s Council are protected and welcome within the walls of the palace. POSITIONS WITHIN THE COURT Beneath the Queen’s Council are a variety of courtiers serving in a number of varying positions. For those with ambitions to further themselves in the courts, there is no better opportunity to receive the necessary knowledge and expertise than taking up one of these roles. Senior members of the Queen’s Council have traditionally been drawn from the ranks of these courtiers, and under the reign of Queen-Consort Amadea of Susa, this remains the case. COURT GOVERNORS Those who hold the title of Court Governors are the perfect embodiment of proper etiquette. They hold great respect for themselves and others, and always conduct themselves dutifully and with high regard for the palace and her residents. Most of their efforts are typically spent teaching etiquette to the children of the Royal Family. Children of the members of the Queen’s Council, however, are also entitled to these lessons. The Governor may organise day trips for the children under their guidance, for they must ensure the children receive a well-rounded education and grow into proper citizens of Haense befitting their titles. EVENT COLLABORATORS The hosting of smaller events within the Dual-Kingdom is often delegated to the Event Collaborators, a role which serves as a stepping stone on the path to service in the Queen’s Council. It is here where they first learn organisational skills, the planning and hosting of events, under the guidance of the Chamberlain, Custodian, and Grand Lady themselves. For larger events, they are to work in a collaborative effort alongside other members of the council, ensuring festivities of such importance run as smoothly as possible. While the council is eager to educate all, and the tolerance for mistakes in this position is quite high, lethargy will not be tolerated. All are expected to contribute to the best of their ability, and if one wishes to gain the respect of the Queen’s Council, they must earn it. LADIES-IN-WAITING Once a lady matures past the age of wardship, of which is on her eighteenth nameday, the Queen may invite her to join her personal entourage as a lady-in-waiting. These members of the court are to attend to Her Majesty in both private and public settings, shadowing and dressing the Queen for social affairs. Each of these ladies is expected to be proficient in a host of courtly skills, namely etiquette, dance and fine arts. A lady-in-waiting must be, above all, discreet. It is they who shall deliver messages on behalf of the Queen and carry out tasks on her behalf that are too important to be entrusted to the wards. THE QUEEN’S WARDS For ladies yet to come of age, warding beneath the watchful eye of the Queen within her household is of great benefit to both those wishing to serve the council, as well as those who do not. Invaluable skills will be acquired nonetheless, and one’s place in the Royal Court shall be all but assured should they prove themselves capable. Wards may undertake tasks given by the Mistress of the Robes, a member of the Inner Council, or even the Queen herself. These tasks will vary, and shall be tailored to the personal interests of each ward. It should be noted that it is from this pool of wards that the Queen chooses her ladies-in-waiting. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Excellency, Georgina Sofiya Barclay, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska, Princess of Sutica, Duchess-Consort of Reinmar, Margravine-Consort of Vanderfell, Countess-Consort of Freimark and Kretzen, Baroness-Consort of Madvon, Freising and Sigradz, Lady of Erwinsburg, Wilheburg and Freisburg

ETIKET I VE KORT SOCIAL GATHERINGS, COURTLY MANNERS, AND DINING UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 4th day of Msitza ag Dargund of 427 ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK Long has the realm sought to clearly define the proper etiquette to be instituted within the realm, which has since been resumed in the transitory years of Queen Amadea of Susa, and the beginning of her reign. Her focus has been devoted to refining the behaviour of her subjects with her own insight, and works of previous Grand Ladies, of which these sets of guidelines shall serve to strengthen the ever-growing cultural identity of the Haeseni people and what is expected of the nobles among them. Those who do not abide by these rules of etiquette put themselves at risk of great loss, for now activities that may strip one of their honour have been put to parchment. SOCIAL GATHERINGS For both the host and the guest, social functions serve as a proving ground for one’s etiquette. Both must be courteous, both must be punctual, and both must interact with one another accordingly. Above all, the guest must take care not to be disruptive. They are to learn the intricacies of conversation, as to begin and end conversations with tact and modesty. The host must be well versed in their obligations as well; for a host to flaunt what is customarily expected of them, is for them to spite those in attendance and the administrators of times past. EXPECTATIONS OF A BALL I. It is expected that the host sends invitations to guests not less than two Saint’s Days beforehand, lest they not provide ample time to prepare, which may be seen as an insult. This may not be the case for more casual gatherings which none are particularly compelled to attend. For events such as these, a simple public invitation at any point prior to the festivities themselves shall suffice. II. Once a guest enters the scene of a social affair, it is common to greet, thank, and briefly compliment the host of said occasion before introducing oneself to different circles and partaking in entertainment. III. A particularly chivalrous lord may assign himself as cavalier, or escort, to an unspoken-for lady for the duration of a gathering. As the lord accompanying the lady, he must ensure that all partners with whom she dances and engages in conversation with are agreeable. He must as well ensure that she might find refreshments and seating whenever she wishes. His duty remains unfinished until the lady has been returned to her home safely. In return for his service, any maiden worth the trouble will afford him the first, and most often last dance of the ball; for the final dance holds the most weight in the affair, as it is most often when a pair becomes infatuated with one another. IV. To continuously seek the attention of a lady that is not in one's care as a cavalier, or for a lady, to seek a man relentlessly while placed under the care of another, is to expose one's partiality to said person. V. It is of the utmost importance that a well-mannered lord keep note of the wall-flowers of the evening and devote thought to them, as opposed to the belles who have already been graced with beauty and many suitors. As for ladies, it is gracious to avoid entertaining a great number of suitors so as to not rob other women of the joy of doing so and waste the time of many a lord. VI. If a lady should refuse a dance with a lord, she must do so gracefully with her answer. Should she be engaged for the night, then it is polite to inquire when she may bestow the honour of a dance. On the contrary, if she cannot provide an excuse of fatigue, dizziness, or valid reasoning beyond distaste, then it is offensive of her character to waltz with another immediately after. Though, it should speak poorly on behalf of a lord if he is willing to compromise his self-respect to take offence. VII. In the presence of a married lady, it is an enormous offence to the honour of her husband and their union should he be present and does not find it agreeable for his wife to be offered a dance. --- EXPECTATIONS OF AN EVENING PARTY I. While the events of an evening party are far more variable than a ball, the etiquette mentioned prior must still be adhered to should there be some form of reception with dance. As well, it is seen as impolite to fail to greet and recognize the guests to whom one is acquainted. II. If one brings with them a guest unfamiliar to most, it is considerate to introduce them to those of status within the room. This puts the individual at ease and clears the room of any tension unfamiliarity entails. III. Lords and ladies alike should be cautious of who they make acquaintances with, as there are many which are improper to make. While it is important to not come across as impolite, it is of greater value to not be caught with a person of scandal. IV. A lady should be accompanied by a cavalier, relative, or some other companion when strolling through the site of an event to which she has been invited, as it speaks well to her status and virtue. Should she be found without escort in the company of a lord, scandal shall surely ensue. V. One must always be mindful of both their tone and volume, as well as their temper. To converse using language better saved for the company of one’s family, namely vulgarity and colloquialisms, shall cast the speaker in a boorish light. VI. Towards the end of an evening party, it is unnecessary to offer farewells to the host. It is best to leave without disrupting the attendance of others and to afford pleasantries at a later date. COURTLY MANNERS As the nobility are distinguished through blood, so too must they be in mannerisms. To fail to do so is to insult their lineage, their kingdom, and their subjects. It is imperative that the nobility both carry and dress themselves appropriately. This entails intricate knowledge of the function of the Haeseni courts, as well as current fashion, for to be dressed poorly when not sworn to poverty, on pilgrimage, or on a more secular voyage, is most distasteful. EXPECTATIONS OBSERVED IN THE COURTS I. SEATING ARRANGEMENTS While in a session of court or any other affair within the throneroom, there are rules that must be obeyed for the royals, nobility, peasantry, and soldiers. Special occasions may forgo these rules, but only those explicitly defined. a) Only a small group is permitted to stand upon the dais under normal circumstances. The reigning monarch is to sit or stand centre stage, with their consort left of them. Should the Palatine be present, they are to stand on the opposite side of the monarch, similarly to the Grand Prince. b) Crow Knights and other Aulic Councillors may not stand on the dais alongside the aforementioned individuals. Though there are differences noted in these positions, as Aulic Councillors have no required position to take, whereas Crow Knights should stand in an orderly formation below the dais or throughout the throne room. c) Marian Knights have express permission to stand on the dais, and are even encouraged to so that they might carry out their charged care of the royal family. d) Those who are constituted as a prince or princess by law are entitled to sit within the royal seating. This does not include all born into the Bihar line, but it does permit spouses that married into a royal title. e) Noble houses should preferably sit within their own groupings. While not mandatory, it is more conventional for general observation or when the monarch must be able to readily call upon an individual. f) Within the season of a Lifstala, the Queen and her Grand Lady are permitted to make full use of the dais. --- II. APPROPRIATE ATTIRE It is of paramount value that the fashions of court be followed to the clear definitions provided by the “Moda i ve Kort” publishings. Haense is, and forever will be, a refined nation that acts in accordance with their spoken intelligence to physical dress. The uniformity of fashion brandishes the intellect which Lady Haense and Mother Ruska possess, and those who fall under. a) When in attendance of a formal affair, such as a session of court, a feast, or a ball, those of high station should dress appropriately and adorn themselves with kokoshniks or other headwear, gold, floral embroidery, and brightly pigmented dyes. b) Informal events, which may include garden parties and tournaments, should have those in attendance dressed with loosely fitted clothes with few buttons and darker fabrics. It should be seen as important to dress oneself as a Haeseni would, rather than of another nation which would reflect poorly on the education of a house. c) Only those of royal blood should adorn a tiara, circlet, or crown. To wear one without noting the proper occasions to otherwise would be to insult the Barbanov line, with the offender all but declaring their own legitimacy to the throne of Haense. Similarly, sashes should only be worn by the royal family, debutantes, and brides. d) Heirlooms in noble houses are granted permission to be worn in special circumstances, which include weddings, or in the presentation and closing event of a Lifstala. These items might be as simple as a necklace or as intricate as a tiara. e) If a woman chooses to cover her hair once she is wed, then she should avoid a piece that is long and white, as they are reserved for royals and weddings. f) When wearing an outfit with colours, it is important to note the symbolism behind them to avoid confusion in the courts. Red can vary in meaning in particular, expressing either fidelity in marriage or desire to court, whereas gold is a dye that is reserved for those of royal status. --- III. APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR In every man or woman of Haense is the pride and honour of their nation, which they shall hold above all else. It is expected of all to carry themselves with said honour, and to exemplify the values of their people through their behaviour, lest their character be tarnished. a) Introductions to those of noble or royal birth should always remain formal, with their full title used in all public and formal instances, or upon first meeting. It is appropriate to shorten gestures and honorifics for practical usage otherwise. Deliberate misuse of addressments should be expected to lead to detrimental outcomes. b) Those of high station must always carry themselves with respect and never act out of turn, be it through unsavoury words or scandalous behaviour. It is an embarrassment to both themselves and their houses, especially so when those they dishonour are more accomplished or pure of heart. c) To speak poorly of a person holding titles more prestigious than one’s own, and especially those of royalty, is to insult them gravely. By refusing to grant to them the respect they are owed, an insulter implies the insulted is undeserving of their title and the reverence it entails. It is in poor taste to insult those below one’s status as well, for they have not the opportunities of their betters and may yet be of pure heart and mind. d) Unprovoked and unjustifiable acts of violence between those of high station should always be ill-regarded. This might be ignored if it is a formal dispute in a duel for someone’s honour, where a noble may only initiate violence to their equal. e) During presentations and speeches, especially those spoken during a royal court, attendees should never raise their voices above a quiet murmur. To do so is a grave insult to whomever is speaking, and shall more often than not result in the removal of the individual from the venue. TABLE MANNERS Whereas punctuality and courtesy are paramount at every social gathering, one must not neglect their posture and dining etiquette when partaking in a feast, or a simple tea setting. It would be foolish to assume it appropriate to seat oneself wherever they wish at a table, or think an informal event to be truly free of formality. EXPECTATIONS OF A FEAST I. It is ideal that, in the circumstances of the host being of title, they are seated upon a raised dais with their consort seated to the left, and heir to the right. Should their holding not have adequate space for a dais, or if the host is not a peer, then they should assume the head of the table, with their spouse and eldest child closely following the aforementioned positions. As well should the consort or spouse of the head, in the instance that they are a woman, have a female relation sit on her side of the table to display her favour. Other guests of honour should sit on the head’s side of the table. II. Prayer must always be observed before the eating of food at a formal dinner, preferably spoken by the host’s resident clergy member. Eating before this is to flaunt one’s own faithlessness and invites malicious beings into the home of the host. Once the prayer has concluded, guests are to wait until the host takes the first bite before they begin to dine themselves. III. A host who strives for excellence will serve no less than three courses throughout a feast, and each of said courses must adequately reflect the status of their guests. Should a lord be entertaining royalty, they are to serve multiple courses with expensive ingredients, prepared by only the most skillful of chefs. For a guest holding only baronial titles, the feast need not exceed the minimum of three courses. The food itself may also be rather simple, devoid of foreign ingredients, and prepared by the lord’s servantry. Regardless of the stature of the guests, all dishes should ideally reflect the culture of the host in some way or another. IV. As a feast is not a casual affair, the host or head of the house should offer a few words to begin the evening. Keeping in line with such formality, guests should come bearing gifts to be presented to the host upon the conclusion of his speech. V. An unwed woman should always remain seated between eligible men to increase her chances of marriage, though only in the case that the parties are of the age of majority. In contrast, it is a bad omen for a pregnant woman to be seated between either an eligible or married man that is not her spouse. VI. Unmarried women partaking in a feast should not do more than drink in front of men with whom they do not share relation through blood or marriage. Should the head of their house hold the highest title among the other guests, however, a woman may eat her fill while those of lower nobility are permitted only to waft. --- EXPECTATIONS OF A GARDEN PARTY I. The formality of a garden party varies greatly from that of feasts, balls, and evening parties. While women should still be mindful of the men they share company with, it is acceptable to share a refreshment with men with whom they do not share relation through blood or marriage. II. It would be inappropriate of a guest to not properly partake in the drinks and platters they are presented with by their host without valid reason. III. Lords and ladies in attendance should invite one another to promenade if the host has permitted such movement around their gardens. This is not to suggest that it is appropriate to be entirely secluded from the eyes of other guests, as it could indicate scandalous behaviour. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, AMADEA OF SUSA, Queen-Consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-Consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-Consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-Consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-Consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-Consort of Varna, Baroness-Consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Excellency, Georgina Sofiya Barclay, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska, Princess of Sutica, Duchess-Consort of Reinmar, Margravine-Consort of Vanderfell, Countess-Consort of Freimark and Kretzen, Baroness-Consort of Madvon, Freising and Sigradz, Lady of Erwinsburg, Wilheburg and Freisburg Her Ladyship, Nikoleta Barbara Morovar, Mistress of the Wardrobe

Published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe 8th of Tov ag Yermey, 427 E.S. Coronation Regalia Dearest Readers, Moda i ve Kort has served dutifully under the prior rule of Koenas Emma, and shall continue to provide insight on Courtly fashion. Since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan wear, the devoted Mistress of the Wardrobe is obliged to continue her service under the household of Koenas Amadea. To build upon legacies and provide regulation of fashion standards is a great honor. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: Coronation Regalia Since the establishment of the Dual Kingdom, coronation garb has been inconsistent as well as left in the past. Only once did someone establish an official dress for a Queen to wear during her coronation yet since then, there has been no modern iteration of such clothing. Since we have come so far without a proper refurbishing to the coronation attire that the mistress of the robes sought it fit to finally modernize and set official standards for the coronation regalia of the King and Queen of Haenseti-Ruska. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Koeng ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Dress Burgundian Coat A red, burgundian silk coat, lined at the edges with delicate aurelian adornment. Down the middle, a string of buttons clasp the fragile garment together. Historically, it is one of the coats of the Burgundian Host, and according to legend, this specific one is the very coat which Jan Yeremi wore during the Siege of the Lahy. In Haeseni Regalia, it is given during the Investiture of the Royal Offices and placed under the coronation mantle. It symbolizes the consent of the people to the reign of the sovereign. *Modernized and Restored by the Mistress of the Robes Ve Chernit Cloak Contrasting the red silken coat, the black cloak that drapes from under the Coronation Mantle on the sovereign's left shoulder represents the journey of mind, body, and spirit one must take to become the King of Haenseti-Ruska. It is given during the Investiture of the Royal Offices and placed by a priest of the Mother Church. Coronation Mantle Zoloto van Markev The twin to Zoloto van Reza, the aurous samite fabric is draped traditionally down the back of the sovereign. Embroidered with the Barbanov Sigil of a black crow surrounded by royal crimson. The Mantle’s edges are lined with ermine and the inside with bevear. In Haeseni Regalia, it is given during the Investiture of the Royal Offices and traditionally put on for the sovereign by their consort over the burgundian coat. Barmas A large, silver and gold necklace, stretching it span from one’s shoulder to shoulder. The precious metals are entwined in a delicate floral pattern of chains, and on the necklace itself is engraved the following gems: The Carnatian Rubies (5); The Goat’s Sapphires (3); The Golden Plates of Joren (2); and the Carsacan Diamond which rests on the left shoulder and represents the strength of the new monarch. Jewels Biharian Crown King Siguine I had a new crown commissioned following the conflict of return of the body of King Franz II following his death. It featured a considerably more modern design, including a double-arched cross-mantle adorning the top. It maintains a circlet base, though it is lined with pearls. It is encrusted with a large ruby and forty-two sapphires and diamonds. In the stead of a mitre is an elaborate Jrentic lily design forming into two-halves around the double-arches. *Modernized and Restored by the Mistress of the Robes Coronation Cap A red velvet cap that is worn underneath the crown. In Haeseni regalia, the coronation cap is given after the baptism and anointing of the sovereign, in preparation for the coronation itself. Saint Joren’s Chains Two golden hands for each wrist, engraved with delicate patterning and encrusted with small diamonds. Allegedly, the bracelets are the chains which Joren bore during his fourteen year captivity, and upon release, kept the bands as a sign of his trial and tribulation under his brother. In Haeseni regalia, the chains are traditionally given during the Investiture of the Royal Offices, and symbolizes the Responsibilities of State. Ring of the Fidei Defensor (Ring of Marius I) A silver signet ring with the Canonist Cross engraved in emerald. The ring was given to Marius I during the Coalition Wars of the 150s ES after his elevation as ‘Fidei Defensor’ or Defender of the Canonist Faith. In Haeseni regalia, the ring is given during the Investiture of the Royal Office (worn on the right ring finger) and symbolizes the protection of the State Religion (Canonism). Sword of Gaius Marius A short-sword with Teutonic pommel, with the blade itself is made of fine silver. The sword is claimed to be the sword wielded by Gaius Marius, founder of the Hansetian state and an Orenian king, during his conquests in Aegis. In Haeseni regalia, the sword is given during the Presentation of the Regalia (held in the right hand along with the scepter) and symbolizes the Hansetian State. ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Koenas ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── Dress Burgundian Dress Created to match the Sovereigns Burgundian Coat, the Burgundian Dress is made for the consorts main garment for the coronation ceremony. It is a red, silken gown, lined at the edges with delicate aurelian adornment. Down the middle, a string of buttons clasp the fragile garment together. Upon the sleeves the pattern of the Karosgrad skyline is embroidered to signify how close the Queen is to her people. In Haeseni Regalia, it is given during the Investiture of the Royal Offices and worn under the coronation mantle. Coronation Mantel Zoloto van Reza The twin to Zoloto van Markev, the aurous samite fabric is draped traditionally down the back of the consort. Embroidered with the Barbanov Sigil, the family the Consort would have just married into, of a black crow surrounded by royal crimson. The Mantle’s edges are lined with polar bear fur and the inside with beaver. In Haeseni Regalia, it is given during the Investiture of the Royal Offices and traditionally put on by the consorts lady in waitings. Jewels Ve Asserala Ezstrejna Crown Originally, the Consort Crown of Queen Milena of Adria has been the go-to crown worn by the crowned queen. Though, with the Kingdom entering a new era under King Karl III and Queen Amadea of Susa, a new crown has been constructed specifically for the Coronation regalia of the Consort. 'The Summer Star' features a common coronation design, including the double-arched cross-mantle adorning the top, connecting together with pearls. The base of the crown is a circlet lined with eighty-four pearls from Lake Varon. Inset into the circlet are three types of gemstones that have been meticulously placed in order to symbolically represent the strength and duty of the Haeseni Consort. Underneath a black velvet cap is attached, embodying the Queen's closeness to god. The Gemstones; The centerpiece is the ‘Opkomende Zon’ ruby, which is known as the stone of royalty. Haeseni lore states that rubies open the heart of whoever is wearing one, bringing forth love and vitality. Secondly, a sapphire, named ‘Ve Blauwe Wateren’ which represents prayer and connection to faith. Lastly, the ‘Aarden’ emerald, which is known to bring about self-knowledge and increase likelihood of healthy children. Ezstrejna Sutika Necklace The 'Star of Sutica'; A necklace with a bright blue sapphire in its center that was framed and webbed into strings of gold. The twenty carat shining stone was shaped into an octagon to represent the eye and heart of a kraken, who's golden crafted tentacles serve as the chain and clasp. Gifted by his Royal Majesty Koeng Heinrik Il to his wife Koenas Annika for a successful defense of Sutica against the Southern Sutica Alliance in 388 ES. In Haeseni Regalia, it is worn around the neck of the consort to serve as a physical symbol of their love to the sovereign. Ve Augo I Nadziesk The ‘Eye of Hope‘ is an expertly crafted goldenr-clad cross of Lorraine. A marquise-cut emeralds are set in the center. The cross comes with a minisculely-linked golden chain to allow its owner to adorn his or her neck or waist with it. This cross was once blessed by Pontian III. In Haeseni Regalia, the Ve Augo I Nadziesk is worn around the waist to bless the future Queen. Signed, HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Amadea of Susa, Queen-consort of Hanseti and Ruska, Princess-consort of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duchess-consort of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margravine-consort of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Countess-consort of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscountess-consort of Varna, Baroness-consort of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lady of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Ladyship, Nikoleta Barbara Baruch Mistress of the Wardrobe Her Ladyship, Margot Sofiya Baruch Head Assistant to the Mistress of the Robes

EKOVNEN HAENZI TJASERNARI REFORMED HAESENI SERVANTRY UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 4th day of Tov and Yermey of 425 ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK For generations, our Royal Courts has boasted a bustling assortment of courtiers and positions working under the Koenas. One of whom, the Head of Servantry, upholds the quality of the servants and supporting foundations of the Nikirala. Their purpose is to maintain this active body of hired employees, ensuring the guests and noblemen of the palace are attended comfortably. With the blessing of Koenas Emma Karenina our current Head of Servantry, Helena Bishop, wishes to invite the creative and hardworking minds of Karosgrad to affect change in the workings of the palace grounds. As the recently appointed Head of Servantry begins her tenure it will be assured that, through the following methods, the Nikirala Prikaz will see itself into an era of high activity and efficiency. ROLES WITHIN THE REFORMED SERVANTRY Firress Bishop’s vision for Haeseni servantry is both in keeping with the traditional roles within the palace, while retaining ideals of expanding the royal workforce with a larger diversity of roles. Most of the following positions may be filled by multiple people, and multiple people may fill more than one role. Head of Servantry Appointed by the Queen, the Head of Servantry oversees and hires all of the following positions. They report directly to the Grand Lady of the Royal Courts, engaging in meetings of the Queen’s Council, and interview potential candidates to fill servantry positions. It is their purpose to ensure the palace remains an active and thriving environment, for both the Nikirala’s workforce and the guests it sees cycling through its doors. They organise staff meetings and trainings, as well as celebratory events for the workforce, and must ensure every staff member is active and contributing to the Nikirala’s welfare. More than that, however, as Head of Servantry it is imperative they guarantee that each staff member of the wider fabric of the Nikirala is protected and continues to feel welcome. [Contact: Based1Salmon#7103] Deputy Head of Servantry Whatever the Head Servant dreams, the Deputy helps build. They are charged with being the hand of the Head Servant whenever needed, either in their absence or when entrusted with other duties. The Deputy must be an adept penman, or woman as they serve clerically under the Head, from scribing letters, minutes during meetings, and recording the various individuals of their duties - as to track progress of the work staff. It is also important that the Deputy be well-trained in all other departments of the Palace too, as preparation to become the next Head of Servantry when the time comes. Being the Deputy is a meritorious feat, and a well opportunity to verse oneself in the workings of Servantry. [Vacant] Royal Butler Serving a key role in servantry, the Royal Butler is charged with the management of the Royal Household, be it from overseeing that the Royal family is kept cared for, to ensuring that they are kept with full stomachs of wine, or food. This duty should not only be seen as a simple job, but a duty to provide company to the Royals who they surround themselves with, and to be a lifelong companion of the most prestigious family of Hanseti-Ruska. Hence, it is vital that the Royal Butler be gregarious and good-natured. They also have the responsibilities of managing the training and coordination of other butlers, leading by their model example, and largely overseeing the Court Messengers. Should the head or deputy be absent, the Royal Butler should expect to be left in command, already serving as a third in the hierarchy of the Palace servantry. [Contact: cap'n#4985] Court Florist Such a person with an ardour for flora, will be hired to ensure both the upkeep of the palace’s interior plants, the Royal displays, but also to maintain the beauty of the sprawling Nikirala gardens and Karosgrad’s surrounding blossoms. From cultivated rose gardens, rural wildflowers, to carefully trimmed bushes, the Court Florist must be someone who retains a budding passion for Godani’s most delicate creation. Crucially, the Nikirala Gardens require gardening and maintenance. They will aid in decorating the palace itself, changing displays according to their chosen mood and season, as well as to prepare the ballroom or feast hall for similar social events. Large floral centerpieces and sculptures have been crafted in the past, as impressive spectacles for the Nikirala’s guests. [Contact: Lokvank#0066] Handmaiden Handmaidens are an essential part of the flow of palace life. They are responsible for aiding noble ladies and other important female figures in their general day-to-day life. This might include: dressing, bathing, accompaniment, tasks, taking messages, etc. This role is a laborious one, and regarded as one of the most prestigious in the palace servantry. Unlike many other roles, handmaidens work directly beside their assigned lady, so it is imperative that they are selected carefully and under vast consideration. Candidates must be confirmed by either a group consisting of the Head Maid, Deputy Head of Servantry, and the Head Butler, or directly by the Head of Servantry. [Vacant] The Royal Chef One, if not the key, member of our Nikirala servantry is the Royal Chef. The large palace kitchen, stocked with ingredients and the latest culinary appliances, is their domain. They are able to experiment with recipes and methods in its stifling warmth. It is imperative that each and every meal is prepared to utter perfection, as serving their employers anything not up to par, is an insult. They must be flexible, as the plans for a meal could change in an instant. A simple family dinner could easily become a grand feast between two or more families. They must also have a vast array of knowledge for spices and food preparation. The last thing a chef would want is to accidentally poison their employers! [Contact: Keegan7om#9889] Scullery Boy One of the more simple roles within the servantry chain is the scullery boy. They are the official chief editor of the kitchen recipe book, and will uphold the grammar, spelling, and organization of the cookbooks held on the kitchen shelves. Along with their primary duties, the scullery boy will be the primary creator of new recipes in cooperation with the Court Chef. Those who hold this position will be expected to know the likes and dislikes of the lords and ladies they serve, so that they might create a meal that all can equally enjoy. Typically, this role is occupied by a younger child, it is a foot in the door for a life of servantry, or the role as future Head Chef! [Vacant] Court Messenger The court messenger is tasked with one simple job, to provide communication between the royal family and those they converse with. It is a travel-heavy job, requiring fast legs and a quick mind to be able to take a message at a moment’s notice, no questions asked. Much of the work is just getting to and from necessary locations, searching for specific recipients. Those who fill this position must have a keen sense of the outdoors, as further trips might require camping overnight. Wit and sharpness are qualities encouraged in such messengers, as the speed of delivery might be the distinction between life and death. [Contact: 10matthewc9#9809, Turbo_Dog🦧#9339, Tav#6906] Joining the ranks of the Nikirala’s servantry allows entrance into a larger community, making a career of domestic talents - if you find there is not a position suited to you, contact the Head of Servantry, to see about installing a unique role in the Courts. It is paid work, on weekly basis, and one can rise up the ranks of servantry (the Head Royal Butler, Deputy Head of Servantry, and the top position as Head of Servantry are all well-respected positions). If you are interested, contact the current Head of Servantry, or the Court’s Grand Lady to get involved. IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, Emma Karenina Barbanov-Bihar, Queen of Hanseti-Ruska Her Royal Highness, Aloisa Leisel Barbanov-Bihar, Duchess of Rothswald Firress, Helena Bishop, Head of Servantry in the Haeseni Courts

Moda i ve Kort Published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe Tov ag Yermey ES 420 Gold Etiquette A depiction of a younger Queen Emma Dearest Readers, Haeseni fashion has escalated to new heights since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan Fashion. As the newly appointed Mistress of the Wardrobe within the household of Koenas Emma, Her Highness Nikoleta, and her assistants shall continue to build upon Annika’s legacy and provide a new revitalization and regulation of fashion standards, breathing in new life to the Haeseni court and exploring our culture. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: Gold Etiquette Following a rather strange upsurge in gold imports into the kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, the Queen and her Mistress have found it necessary to update and clarify the gold policy within the courts. We have been far too lenient, and it should be known that those who do not adopt these guidelines might find themselves shunned - or worse - removed from court. This is an extension of the previously published Kokoshnik post, covering said formalities with finer detail. ---------------✰--------------- Headpieces ---------------✰--------------- Headpieces are defined henceforth as: A device worn on the head as an ornament or to serve a function. This shall include the Kokoshnik, wreaths worn on one’s head, tiaras, diadems, circlets, hair nets, hats, and so forth. All pieces that are donned atop the head of a person as an ornament or to serve a function, should be considered with the pursuing regulations. Gold, any form of it, is considered outrageous to be seen on a headpiece unless the wearer is of royal blood, a noble title holder, and the spouse of the title holder. Things mimicking gold, including fabrics, painted headpieces, and embroidery, are as well seen in bad taste within the courts if one isn’t elevated to one of these titles. Tiaras, Circlets and Diadems It is critical that only those of direct royal blood that hold the title of “Your Royal Highness” or higher are to wear tiaras, circlets, and diadems - children, or siblings of the King. This is to serve as a purpose of defining those of greater rank. This does not include children of “Your Royal Highnesses” nor wives. There are, however, occasions where etiquette permits the wearing a style of headpiece that incorporates gold. These are weddings, Lifstala debuts and privately held debuts. If a family has passed down a historical heirloom, through generations, then that too may be worn for the same occasions. To prove the historical heirloom (whether it be a tiara, circlet, Hussariyan cross, or other artefact) you must speak to the Mistress in person so she may inspect it, and add it to her directory of such precious items. Her project, to keep track of the valuable items, is to ensure none are lost over time. Attached to this missive is the roster, which the Queen’s Council ask their noble families to fill out accordingly. ---------------✰--------------- Jewellery & Dress ---------------✰--------------- Jewellery is henceforth defined as: Personal ornaments such as necklaces, rings, or bracelets that are typically made from, or contain jewels and precious metal. Any status, as long as they can afford such, are permitted to display themselves in golden jewellery. Generally, this is in finely crafted necklaces, earrings, and rings. Dress shall be henceforth defined as: The cloth that covers one's figure. The dress, or fashion, of an individual changes between the many deep-rooted culture within our Haeseni society. With all the contrasting styles, it is hard to keep up. Fear not! The regulations on dress are simple: gold accents such as embroidery are adequate for all in the kingdom who can afford such. This can be seen in shoes, scarfs, and the intricate designs on someone's sleeves. Signed, Her Royal Majesty, Emma Karenina, Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska Her Highness, Nikoleta Barbara Morovar Mistress of the Wardrobe

Moda i ve Kort Published under the Mistress of the Wardrobe 16th of Joma ag Umund ES 418 Lifstala Debut Dresses A depiction of a young lady waiting to present Dearest Readers, Haeseni fashion has escalated to new heights since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan Fashion. As the newly appointed Mistress of the Wardrobe within the household of Koenas Emma, Her Highness Nikoleta, and her assistants shall continue to build upon Annika’s legacy and provide a new revitalization and regulation of fashion standards, breathing in new life to the Haeseni court and exploring our culture. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: A Review on Lifstala’s Debut Dresses Lifstala embodies the journey from childhood to adulthood, and for many of the young ladies, this will be their only chance to debut and impress eligible bachelors. Most don reds, pearls, and expensive gems that reflect their family’s prestige and honor. While some take a more modest approach to the presentation. As the ladies entered, the Mistress of the Wardrobe and her wards noted the dresses from each female debutante along with their demeanor. May this review be used for educational purposes for future debutantes when they are deciding their future garbs. ---------------✰--------------- Royal Debutantes ---------------✰--------------- HRH Klara Elizaveta of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar The question on everyone’s mind, who will seize the affections of the notoriously violent and scrupulous Prinzenas Klara? Or better yet, who has been secretly vying for her! Her gown resembles one of her earlier years, sewn by the Mistress herself some time ago. It has been redyed from the original muted viridescent shade to a sanguine-esque color for the debut, along with a change in the sash color to a stark white, representing snow and purity. Her tiara was a modest silver frame though juxtaposed by brobdingnagian ostentatious rubies, no doubt ‘heavy’ to say the least. HH Elizaveta Ulyana of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar Elizaveta, the orphaned royal, rumored to have certain passions for commoners, donned a jewel set from the Royal Vault Collection called the Bloodlust Parure. The parure all consisted of a matching bracelet, tiara, and earrings that supplemented the Prinzenas’ natural aire. The gown itself was a very deepened shade of a reddish tone embroidered with gold thread to match the jewels she donned. The overcoat was a brighter red made of sparkling silk, giving the girl a whimsical feel to the dress. Her Highness and the Grand Lady both approved of the gown, perhaps becoming one of the best garments of the season! HH Carolina Milena of the Royal House of Joannes Carolina, one of the few foreign debutantes, donned a small tiara made of silver and dotted with shimmering pearls. Her dress was rather simple with shades of maroon, gilt, and olive. The red glimmered as she walked down the aisle, embedded with jewels from her homelands. The princess' sleeves were flowy and beautiful, sadly meant for warmer climates. Yet we must remark that the Princess, elegant as ever, did appear to be appropriating Haeseni culture. She took some coaxing, but eventually Carolina admitted such dastardly faults. ---------------✰--------------- Mainline Nobility Debutantes ---------------✰--------------- HL Isabel Alexandra, HL Margrait Floireans, and Saoirse Aila of the Ducal House of Baruch The heir and future Duchess of Baruch wore something more akin to Orenian fashion customs than something to reflect her family’s history, although such a risky maneuver proved to favor her in the end. Her dress consisted of a scarlet-colored corset, sleeves, and bustle. The skirt was a lovely deepened orange embroiderd with red roses, a flower traditionally indicating one's love for a partner, dotting the hem. A golden necklace with amethyst as the centerpiece draped around the future Duchess’ neck, a strange gem of choice for the future Duchess. Lastly, as is the Baruch trademark, A piece of pink and green tartan draped from the side of her corset on the side of her flank, green of course representing the vast riches her family has acquired. Her formal debut will occur later on in the season, themed around softer colors of blue and green. Colors that may better compliment the girl’s fiery locks much better than the traditional reds of the Lifstala season. Margrait, the youngest of the mainline Baruch girls to debut, is a confrontational yet well raised Baruch who takes after her mother. It was not surprising that she wore something much more expected by a woman of the mainline family of Baruch. A large heavy cape followed behind her . A tartan sash overlaps the embroidery on her torso, certainly by her mother. A belt of gold strung along her waist to ward the evils of the outside world from her soul. Atop her head lies a kokoshnik, certainly inherited from her royal blood, with a large ruby in the center to symbolize honor and pride. Saoirse, a delicate artist, wore something rather simple yet elegant. Her garb consisted of a white chemise with red silk ribbons tied around her arm and embroidery along the sleeves. Around her waist a tight belt of red, and much like her younger sister, had the same purpose. To keep the evils and sins of the outside world away from her soul. The skirt itself was one of shifting silk because as the light touched it, the colors changed from shades of oranges to red to even yellows at the correct angle! Unlike her two sisters who both donned jewels atop her head, Saoirse took a much more modest approach with a simple veil of red covering her hair as is the evident picture of piety. HL Aloisa Liesel of the Ducal House of Barclay Aloisa, rumored to have already pulled herself one of the season's prizes, wore a rather simple gown. The dress was a neutral red that clipped together in the middle with felt buttons. Lining the middle, top, and end of the sleeves of her gown, was gold embroidery most likely stitched by hand by a loving mother. Over her waist and torso drapes a blue sash hanging from her left shoulder, which indicates she is still looking for a gentleman to court! Is she not happy with her current one? Remember, those debuting in future years to be knowledgeable on sash etiquette. HL Dorothea Isabel of the Ducal House of Ruthern Dorothea wore what we’d consider one of the best gowns, and being the second of two, clearly has confirmed her favor in the family and courts. Her sister was entirely unseen! Her dress was made of three parts, a red underdress shirt embellished with flourishes and gold, a bright azure skirt with pink flowers and golden buttons clasping the skirt together, and lastly, a cream-colored floral jacket. The look is not only unique, but gorgeous. Her matching kokoshnik is interlaced with gold trimming and more florals. I believe great things to come from this girl based on her debut dress. HL Adele Emma of the Comital House of Ludovar Adele just had her private debut a few years prior, and her dress seemed rather childish in our eyes. A bow ties around her high neckline. Her semblance consisted of all telltale signs that could be considered pious, if not for the low waist line to hide the girl's figure! The colors of her dress were lackluster, one of bright red which only acted as a juxtaposition to the cyan that fell from her waist. The color seemed to distract the viewer from the Ludovar’s complexion entirely, in turn washing her face out. Yet, we must give credit to the flourishes that accented her skirt. HL Sorina Lorelei of the Baronial House of Luceafăru Embroidery seems to be a common theme along the debuts, showing the riches of the family and the care they put into their daughters’ debuts. Sorina was no exception. Her frock was one of darker reds and purples with intricate embroidery, clearly the most we will see all eve. Around her neck, a dusty blue cape enveloped her entire back and joined together in the front with golden clasps. Lastly, laid upon her fair maiden hair, was donned a dainty gold tiara inherited from her grandmother, the Orenian Princess Charlotte Augusta. HL Amadea Ulyssa of the Baronial House of Carrington-d’Arkent Amadea of Carrington, surprisingly allowed back into the city by her father, wore entirely red. The modest cut was heavily inspired by Rhenyari fashions imported from Ba’as, though the fabric was rich and expensive from the way the light catched the fabric. A banded circlet of gold represented the wealth and might of her Carrington blood. Amadea is both bold and shrewd, which is shown in her choice of garb. It is imperative for all future Lifstala debutantes that the choice of dress reflects the qualities of the wearer. ---------------✰--------------- Non-Mainline Nobility Debutantes ---------------✰--------------- HL Erika Renata of the Ducal House of Barclay Lady Erika made a spectacular show with her frock of garnet hues, layered with a cape in crimson red with silvery furs. The profile of the gown was historic, made famous by the deceased Duchess of Vidaus, Madalene. Her kokoshnik showed off wealth, coupled with a hulking ruby on a locket pon her collar made the politician seem almost regal. Her still modest look made a demonstration of her family's wealth, A challenge most women lost in that respect. HL Fenika Caitlin of the Duchal House of Baruch The first of two Fenika’s to debut, wore a garment consisting of a red overcoat split in the front to show the golden petticoat beneath. The overcoat was wrinkled, indicative of a struggle most likely caused by her tardiness. Like most of the other Baruch ladies to debut, Fenika donned a piece of quality tartan. Her head had a cloth Kokoshnik with golden embroidery with a depiction of a ship, harpoons, and a pod of whales. Honoring her ancestors. HL Fenika Valeriya and HL Zoya Ivanna of the Ducal House of Ruthern Fenika, named after an aunt, wore something befitting the eldest ward to the Mistress of the Wardrobe. Her dress itself was a lighter coral with gilded buttons and brocade near the hem. Whereas the overcoat was a ruby and wholly lined with mahogany pelt. An homage to her Ruthern name and the furs the family usually dons, along with being a notorious style for Lifstala. Ontop her head, a gift from Her Highness, Nikoleta. A kokoshnik of embroidered gold with pearls lining the sides and a large ruby inset in the middle of the kokoshnik. Yet, the real beauty in her gown was what laid under the kokoshnik. Tied at the top of her head, a ribbon, but under the ribbon laid a white veil with hand embroidered pictures of her family's greatest accomplishments. A well educated girl, with much pride in her family’s history Zoya, the younger counterpart to her older sister, took the same route as Saoirse. Worn by the maiden was an ashen top with red embroidery, likely done by her older sister to show devotion. Around her neck, pure gold, showing the wealth of her house. A ribbon around her waist transitions the gown to the crimson, green, and apricot colors important to Lifstala and its traditions. Zoya, clearly pious like her sister who is her senior by a single year, donned a red veil. Some could speculate that this is a popular fashion style, one to be worn much more next Lifstala. HL Laura Delilah, HL Persephae Erika, and HL Simone Teodora of the Viscomital House of Kortrevich Laura Delilah, a rather Orenian name, came down the aisle with a rather Orenian gown. What the Kortrevich donned was rather dark with silk gloves and a corset fitted to her figure. The fabric of the dress is of a vermilion velvet which made it gleam in the candle light. As squarish and military, the gown Persephae wore was covered in golden beads. The red skirt was stiff and remarkably long to conceal the girl's figure. The low cut of her bodice showed off the most skin from any other debut and soft pearls rested on her chest. The Kortrevich's gown was again simple, but at least this one was elegant with the bustle and softness to her face. The best of the trio. Simone wore a hue of plum, claiming it was because she was fonder of darker colors - yet later on said that it was because her twin was to don red and not her. The violet gown did grace her features well enough, giving the girl a youthful gleam to a lackluster debut. Though, it is worth noting that she did break it down freestyle. A mediocre dance for a mediocre dress. HL Nina Svetlana of the Baronial House of Morovar As we continue down the list, less and less of the classic Lifstala color red is seen. Is red such a hard color to get one's hands on? Or perhaps too dark as Simone Kortrevich claims? The blush frock that Nina Morovar wore was delicately embroidered like cherry blossoms and hung from one hip that cascaded down her legs. Lace and silver donned the rest of the gown. A standard look, reminding onlookers of the pale beauty of Fenika Morovar. ---------------✰--------------- Commoner House Debutantes ---------------✰--------------- Miss Agnieszka of House Petrova Miss Agnieszka is known for flair, dressing high above her rank at any chance she can get. It was humbling to say the least, to see the woman in an article apt of her heart. She wore a dress of a ruby tinge with auspicious details along her headscarf, sleeves, and hem of her dress. The head wrapping was dark, a contrast to the rest of the garment. Drooping from her belt, a pious lorraine cross. A fine overture. A suggestion to future readers, the presentation itself is the only time a young lady can show off all her wealth. Although, some choose not to for their values are higher than personal ornament. Miss Amiyah of House Rutledge Miss Amiyah’s main accessory was her pair of Bokolos. Before her questioning even commenced, she gave food to the trio of judges, fashioning a scene. The textile of her dress was inky black, though the undergarment was a hue of wine, shown through the sleeves and bodice. Around the girls neck is a silver pendant with pink gems. She was smart and elegant with her words, something all future debut should practice. Miss Charelle of House Bishop Charelle wore white, as if she was dressing in relation to travel to the Orenian Social Season. This is an example of what not to wear to Lifstala, and should a girl repeat such a grim mistake, they pledge to feel disgraced. Miss Catlaya of House Colborn Catlaya decided to exert herself for her family, a real ruby in the rough. Her gown was righteous yet seductive. The sleeves enrobed her arms with quaint aurelian ornament overtop rose fabric. The blouse was made of a radiant golden fiber with a belt to separate the skirt and keep corruption out. The frock itself was made of silks which flowed brazenly behind her fragile figure. Much like Miss Agnieszka from earlier, she too covered most of her hair with a scarf to show piousness. A familiar accessory for those who may not afford hair product. Closing Words After the long presentation, we must write that the Wardrobes are impressed by all the fine cloth and riches to come to fruition at simply one event! We look forward to future endeavors and gowns worn by the young ladies of Lifstala during their season of zeal. Future ladies best reap the warnings written in this script, and not make the identical mistakes as a select few made this turn.

Moda i ve Kort Published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe 9th of Tov ag Yermey ES 416 MEN'S MODA Portrait of Joseph I of Haense Dearest Readers, Haeseni fashion has escalated to new heights since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan Fashion. As the newly appointed Mistress of the Wardrobe within the household of Koenas Emma, Her Highness Nikoleta, and her assistants shall continue to build upon Annika’s legacy and provide a new revitalization and regulation of fashion standards, breathing in new life to the Haeseni court and exploring our culture. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: Men's Fashion A Nikirala handmaiden runs around from room to room, handing out Moda i ve Kort to any lady or gentleman that was in sight! No one was safe from the news of the Mistress of the Wardrobe. ---------------✰--------------- Introduction ---------------✰--------------- For as long as Moda i ve Kort has been spearheaded under Her Highness, Nikoleta Barbara, mens’ fashion has been left unattended - yet requested insistently. After much turmoil, enough research has made it available to document the fashion of men in the kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. Included below is a study from the Mistress of the Wardrobe and her wards into the fashion etiquette seen around the kingdom. Though it is only informative, we hope you find the inspiration you were searching for. Materials Unlike female-oriented fashion culture in Haense, which tends to focus on the meaning of colors, mens’ fashion revolves around the quality of materials used. Cotton is less luxurious than linen, whilst linen is less luxurious than wool. Leather and cashmere, however, are examples of more expensive materials. It’s important to note that silk is also very expensive, but due to the cold weather in the north it isn’t seen as often and only worn to courtly occasions like balls and feasts. Iron and silver are more often used for embroidery or buttons. Gold is very valuable in the kingdom's culture, contributing to the idea of royalty and high nobility. Colors and dye are only significant in the instance that one is donning the colors of an aristocrat’s family. For many of noble blood, they find great honor through the representation of their houses coloring the streets and backrooms of the kingdom. If not wearing their own family’s tones, common colors of the kingdom are red, yellow, and blue. This topic is more widely explored in the previous Moda i ve Kort edition. Coats and Capes Due to the cold wind of the north, coats are a popular, and often necessary, accessory among all men. They come in all different sizes, shapes, materials, and colors. They are found to be more common among the urban populace than those who live in the countryside due to various formal occasions often occurring within the courts. Those men of higher status, titled or otherwise, are encouraged to wear longer coats heavily laden with small yet noticeable details such as embroidery or fur cuffs to reveal the wealth of an individual. Certainly those with embroidered gold sprinkled into their coats are chief of the social strata. Coats should however be sure to not droop to the floor for it is neither convenient or of gentlemanly nature to have one’s coat trailed in mud. Cloaks and capes are also used to drape down behind a man. They wear ones of dense fabrics and usually leave one or both arms free. A smaller rectangular or round cloak may also be worn, these are usually draped on a singular shoulder and clasped onto another. Richer men can afford to adorn their pelts with embroidery and pearls, typically lined with fur over the shoulder, to combat the chill. ---------------✰--------------- Karosgrad ---------------✰--------------- A painting done by a Haeseni street artist of the entrance to Karograd. Around the City Within the capital city, outfits tend to consist of a shirt, pants, boots, a waistband, a hat, and outerwear to protect from the elements. Younger bachelors are encouraged to wear brighter colors, which dull with age. Shirts are embroidered for different meanings, some being fertility and wealth. Shirts are also short and less decorative other than the embroidery patterns. Pants may be of wider legs for working men, and are sewn together with thicker and tougher fabrics. Outerwear like jackets, capes, and furs are all common, though less fur is seen in the city than in the country. Uniforms are also an important part of capital fashion. The Brotherhood of Saint Karl’s uniform is worn more and more by younger men on every occasion. Those patriots who often wear the Brotherhood’s uniform are found to be depictions of honor and great trust that which the uniform imbues. If ever a person has need of assistance, they only need to find a man in this uniform to be found with an abundance of aid. Typically worn aside this uniform is the beret, worn from the period of the Ruberni War and even before, it acts as a symbol of military authority. In Royal Court Within the courts, men are expected to hold themselves to a higher standard. A noble man’s shirt would be made of expensive silk or thin leather, or of a bleached “two-year-made” linen. A center cut is common, and is fastened with a fancy golden, silver, or pearl button. In contrast to city shirts, those for richer men or men at court are extremely long: knee or mid-calf long. Men are encouraged to dress in their finery at court. Dark colors in contrast with bright ones are commonplace, an example being a black shirt with red or golden embroidery or a red shirt with black embroidery. Tafia head wear is worn for those who can afford it. Longer coats, almost floor length, are seen with fur lining. Shoes are smaller and made of a dyed leather, usually in the shade black. Family jewels and riches are shown off, usually to attract younger ladies during the Lifstala season. For Younger Boys Children up to the age of about eight are commonly seen wearing mid-thigh long shirts with a waistband. They usually don family colors, or white with red embroidery. Darker colors, though not encouraged, are also worn. This tradition stemmed from the practicalities of children growing quickly, so not much use to tailor something fancy or expensive for them a few months apart. As they grow, boys begin to don furs and caps. Their shirts shrink to the waist and embroidery is often adorning their sleeve cusps and collar. Traditionally, a mother embroiders her sons shirts herself, to put love and other values into the cloth. An important style of shirt is the Kosoboroka which is worn by any class and consists of a skewed collar. Warmth is important for the youth, since they haven’t yet built up the endurance for the winter. During the cold months, mittens, socks, sweaters, scarfs, and hats will be sewn for the children. Poorer children might wear cotton yarn, while the rich can afford to have one's made of alpaca or cashmere. ---------------✰--------------- Duchies ---------------✰--------------- The Duchies have long had their own signified culture, not only in traditions, but in wear. With Raevir, Waldenian, and Ayrian culture having an important and culturally significant impact on Haeseni history, it is of no surprise that the most noble of houses have implemented these cultures, as a means of representing their origins, or to simply separate themselves from the rest. The three current duchies, that of Baruch, Ruthern, and Barclay, are perfect examples of such, each representing their own house’s culture through speech, traditions, and what they wear. It’s important to note that the Mistress of the Wardrobe and her team highly encourage those in the duchies to fully expand on their own respective styles and fashion evolution in later publications. We see it as a necessity to ensure that each noble family has proper fashion representation, and where better to start than from the Duchies? House Barclay "Green and Blue I dress, Eagle on my Chest” House of Barclay, a Waldenian house that has been in Haense for well over six generations, has made itself known for its military standing within the Kingdom. It comes to no surprise that the men of the house’s clothing resembles that of military uniforms. These costumes usually consist of long pants, typically dark in color, leather boots lined with fur, a jacket that covers the torso adorned with metals of individual accomplishments, a shirt plain in color, and sometimes a hat. During colder months, fur is draped upon the shoulders for an extra layer of warmth. Another type of clothing often worn by the Barclay house is riding habits. This is due to their history of breeding horses, seeing as they are renowned for their horse riding skills. These adornments consist of longer pants, leather boots up to the knee, longer shirts, a jacket, leather gloves, and hats. Fur is more common in these than their usual attire due to the harsh winds whilst riding. Woolen capes are seen as optional, but advised that it can contribute to a warmer ride. The Duchy of Reinmar will sometimes bear to witness their nobles or rich merchants donning a formal Waldenian fashion, though it is not as popular or common as the more localized Reinmaren fashion stemming from the House of Barclay. This often consists of jackets made from silk, satin, wool or cotton that are accessorized with a belt around the torso. Embroidery on these jackets are often utilized to display wealth. The sleeves on these jacket sare similar to those of Kampfrau dresses that women don with stylized stripes and puffiness. The pants, poofy in shape, may bear a similar hue to the shirt with underpants adopting that of a plain color. Finally, simplistic shoes may complete the outfit. Fur atop the shoulders is optional, though advised for the warmth. House Baruch "By Mountain River and Coal” A portrait of Duke Matyas Baruch of Valwyck wearing the traditional tartan dress of Ayr. The House of Baruch is a house with rich, fruitful history, meaning their stylistic choices have shifted many times over throughout the centuries. Presently, the House of Baruch does find themselves adorning plaid and tartan in many forms. The pattern is usually found on sashes, kilts, and even capes, in fact. Sashes and kilts are most frequently seen, however. Due to the family’s Waldenian roots, some aspects of their style used to resemble that of Waldenian fashion, though the Waldenian aspects of fashion have been adapted to fit the Ayrian undertones this House has adopted with time, mostly due to Valwyck’s climate and their sea-faring activities that require such. Furs, like in most Hanseti-Ruksan houses, are commonplace in House Baruch due to the chilly climate of Valwyck. Fur-lined boots that meet the knee and fur-lined sleeves are not uncommon, either. More importantly, leather belts styled with either silver or gold (depending on the wearer’s wealth) may be donned with their respective kilt or sash. Turtlenecks are also commonplace, seeing as they provide the utmost warmth for those who live in Valwyck. Of course, these are also typically lined with the finest furs, befitting those of this Ducal house. Jewelry is not as common among Baruch men, though rings and brooches that pin their sashes in place are not entirely rare. Golds and silvers are most frequently seen, with rich metalwork often adorning the pieces of jewelry they do wear. House Ruthern "By Bones and Barrows” As one of the oldest continuously surviving houses of the kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, the House of Ruthern has gone through various iterations and styles from their initial beginnings as reavers in the Crowsmarch, to the Palatines of Hanseti-Ruska. Their close association with the House of Barbanov over various generations has led to much of their clothes being similar to the Crown family’s, opting to wear the traditional heavy furs, Ruskan attire, and furthermore tending to choose darker colors on account of their house colors of gray. Whilst typically frowned upon in the court, the House of Ruthern does tend to wear jewelry of necklaces and rings, brought especially into influence under the reign of Duke Ailred Ruthern. Those Rutherns well-tutored by the lord found their fingers often resplendent with trinkets, various rare metals and from the founding of their house, bone. Their necks were equally well adorned with gold, being sure to display their wealth against their muted clothing. The scions of the Ruthern House often find themselves blessed with strong facial hair that is found to be well-groomed and cared for, a hair not out of place. Finally, accompanied at their side is often found steel. Many a Ruthern have become known for their violent and violent nature with a dispensity for dueling and so always stand ready to throw down a challenge. ---------------✰--------------- Furs ---------------✰--------------- Furs have been a staple in Ruska since days before remembering, as the freezing winters make warm garments instrumental to survival. A man of any status is expected to own furs, either from hunting expeditions or shopping to keep warm. Many types of fur exist, since any animal with a pelt can be skinned and worn. Nevertheless, the Mistress of the Wardrobe found it appropriate to assign her assistant, Miss Agnieszeka Petrova, to research the meaning behind a few universally recognized pelts. Types of Fur Ermine: Referred to by some as ‘The Fur of Kings’, ermine has long been prized for its unusual coloration. The name refers specifically to the stark black and white winter coat of the stoat. A stoat’s winter fur bears a striking pattern of all white, save for the tip of the tail, which is an inky black. This type is reserved for royalty or cousins of the mainline. Due to the seasonal availability of ermine, the fur is expensive and difficult to find even for royalty. Sable: Easily recognizable by its blue-brown color, sable is the other fur that is characteristic of Haeseni nobles. As it’s nearly impossible to obtain high-quality sable through hunting, sellers must hunt it, and thus it is one of the most expensive furs available to the Haeseni people. Accessories of sable are rather uncommon, as most sellers find they can fetch a better price on larger garments like cloaks, coats, and mantles. However, sable-lined hats are common among noble men. A noble of lower titles wearing a garment of sable may indeed be seen as the noble requesting recognition from their superiors, or perhaps they may wish to establish themself as being unusually wealthy, powerful, or important. Mink: Although similar to its sister fabric, sable, in terms of softness and warmth, mink is much heavier, making it less expensive. The weight coupled with the fact that mink can be farmed without a sacrifice in quality makes it a high-end fur available to even those lacking in noble titles. Because it’s easily farmed, mink is available in a large variety of colors. The darker browns are generally used on men's garments, though lighter colors aren't unheard of. The access to lighter colors means that mink can be dyed, although the fur’s texture means that dyed mink is often of far lower quality, and may even be seen as tacky. Fox: The fur of the fox is often used as a symbol of the ‘common people’ of Haense. Although foxes don’t take well to farming, they’re easy to hunt and trap, and fox fur is thick and coarse, meaning that it can easily be used for larger garments. This coarseness is what allows fox fur to be dyed without impacting the fur’s quality - as it is already of a relatively low quality, and the dyeing process doesn’t do much to make it worse. Dyed fox fur is used as trims on more colorful formal garments - hats, gloves, jacket lining and sometimes boots. Were it noble to wear too much dyed fur, however, they would seem rather cheap, and may lose some standing in the fashion world of Haense. Ways They Can Be Worn The commonality of fur to every single class of life makes it easy to wear it all over, yet most men decide to drape their shoulders with the fur. Other frequent ways it is worn is inlining to hats, gloves, boots, and jackets. Sometimes the length of fur draped from the shoulders falls to the knees and feet, which could be called a cape. Other times it is used as decoration for ends of jackets and outsides of hats. We have seen fur being used for most everything, the sky is limitless for its uses. ---------------✰--------------- Accessories ---------------✰--------------- Sketches of winter hats by Nikoleta Morovar, 413 ES. Hats and Headwear Hats are worn by all different classes and come in many different shapes, sizes, and styles. They are usually lined with warm furs and cover the ears to keep the harsh winter chills away. Men are expected to remove their head wear only in church or in the home, and are not expected to uncover their heads for court, weddings, or funerals. There are many different styles of winter hats, but common types include the Kolpak, Tafia, and Yermolka. Men may find themselves wearing Kolpaks, a domed cap adorned with a narrow trimming of fur for the wintertime, usually made of cotton (if the man is lower in status) and decorated with buttons and clasps. Well-off individuals adorn themselves with Kolpaks made of satin and decorated with golden and silver threads, gems, and pearls. In the winter they are lined with expensive hunting furs. The Tafia is a skullcap, worn indoors by the richer nobles. These small caps are sewn from soft leather that is dyed different colors or made of velvet, and adorned with gold, silk, and pearls. Another common type of headwear is called the Yermolka, which is a cap made of cloth, velvet, felt, or fur. The crown of it is broadening upwards. Sometimes they are decorated with fox tails and are topped with a silver tip. Military inclined men wear Murmolkas or Ushankas. A murmolka is a high cap with a flat crown of satin, velvet, or thin leather. They have fur wings at the sides that are buttoned to the top. Sometimes, they are decorated with pearly studs and an expensive white feather. Ushankas, in addition, are made entirely of fur and are worn mainly in the winter. They have longer wings on the sides that can be tied to the top or under the jaw for a different look. The dense furs may even offer protection to the head against blunt impacts. Waistbands and Weapons Waistbands are a must-be part of most men's clothing in Hanseti-Ruska. Additionally, they are often donned with uniform, yet they can be dressed up and worn for a grandiose look. A belt should be worn on the waist, or under the belly, intended to twist twice around the body. Typically, they knot these belts on the left side. However, in certain parts of Hanseti-Ruska, the left knotted belt is only intended for women, and men traditionally knot theirs on the right. Another stylized belt, called the kushak, is much wider and the ends are tucked in instead of tied, meaning the ends hang out instead. Fabrics of belts depend on the purpose of the belt, along with the color and decorative aspects of it. Belts for special occasions are made of bright red, green, yellow, or blue wool with silken and golden thread. Their ends are decorated with tassels, pompoms, and beads. Everyday belts are woolen with a weft made of linen or hemp. These colors may tend to be more modest. Leather belts are worn by men only, most importantly. A common accessory to the waistband includes the scabbard, as to take away a man’s sword is to blind the man. This should be especially noted to be necessary of both officers and all lords and peers. In recent memory, a great many members of the noble order have seen fit to better protect their honor, willing to offer out a challenge to those who would challenge or intend to damage it. Knights and traditionally armored soldiers tend to carry larger swords such as broadswords and the like. Nobles at court not wearing armor may instead be found with rapiers, shortswords, daggers, and other lighter, easier weapons to carry. Crest Rings Crest rings, or rings in general, are intended to show the wealth and power of an individual. For men, it is standard to find them wearing them if they are married, or on the Aulic Council. Some men display familial pride through these rings. These rings, as a result, usually have the family crest engraved into the side of the ring, or perhaps adorned with a family gemstone. A general rule is, the more rings a man has on his hands, the greater power he poses or desires to possess. Rings worn on the pinky represent family pride when worn by a man. These are usually bedecked with crests and family colors, so if you simply peer at the ring, you should know which family they come from. Rings worn on the ring finger are an indication of marriage. Rings worn on the index finger, additionally indicate if an individual is on the Aulic Council. Finally, rings worn on the thumb are for the wealthy. Signed, Her Royal Majesty, Emma Karenina Barnabov-Bihar Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska Her Highness, Nikoleta Barbara Morovar Mistress of the Wardrobe Her Grace, Marie Lorraine Ruthern, Duchess-Consort of Vidaus Lady Custodian of the Royal Courts Her Ladyship, Erika Renate Barclay Head-Assistant to Mistress of the Wardrobe Her Ladyship, Fenika Valeriya Ruthern Ward to the Mistress of the Wardrobe

VE LIFSTALA: ROGWY IV SKAZKA THE HAESENI SOCIAL SEASON UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 19th day of Wzuvar and Byvca of 416 E.S As this newest of generations comes of age, the Queen’s Council hereby declares that the much anticipated Lifstala commence. As such, it is expected that all partaking adhere to the recently penned manuscripts regarding Haeseni etiquette and customs. This season differentiates from the others in both scale and choice of theme, being “Walk in the Fairytale.” Subsequent events will follow a similar storybook theme. Thus embodies the journey of love, honour, and adventure many of the Haeseni youth will soon embark on. All with the aim to achieve the glittering hope of their own happily ever after. The courtship events in question are age-exclusive, restricted to those participating in Lifstala, but many of the events are open to the wider cross-section of society. The lists of those debuting which follow are subject to change: LIST OF ELIGIBLE DEBUTANTES ROYAL DEBUTANTES HRH Klara Elizaveta of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar HH Elizaveta Ulyana of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar HH Renata Adelina of the Royal House of Ashford de Savoie HH Carolina Milena of the Royal House of Joannes MAINLINE NOBILITY HL Sibylla Erica of the Ducal House of Barclay HL Aloisa Liesel of the Ducal House of Barclay HL Isabel Alexandra of the Ducal House of Baruch HL Saoirse Aila of the Ducal House of Baruch HL Margrait Floireans of the Ducal House of Baruch HL Viktoriya Franziska of the Ducal House of Ruthern HL Dorothea Isabel of the Ducal House of Ruthern HH Louise Marguerite of the Ducal House of Drusco de Savoie HH Verene Anastasie of the Ducal House of Drusco de Savoie HL Liana Emelda of Ducal House of de Astrea HL Adele Emma of the Comital House of Ludovar HL Sorina Lorelei of the Baronial House of Luceafăru HL Amadea Ulyssa of the Baronial House of Carrington-d’Arkent NON-MAINLINE NOBILITY HL Erika Renata of the Ducal House of Barclay HL Lotte Wilhelmina of the Ducal House of Barclay HL Fenika Caitlin of the Ducal House of Baruch HL Cairstine Carmen of the Ducal House of Baruch HL Fenika Valeriya of the Ducal House of Ruthern HL Zoya Ivanna of the Ducal House of Ruthern HL Laura Delilah of the Viscomital House of Kortrevich HL Persephae Erika of the Viscomital House of Kortrevich HL Simone Teodora of the Viscomital House of Kortrevich HL Franziska Ipera of the Viscomital House of Kortrevich HL Nina Svetlana of the Baronial House of Morovar COMMONER HOUSES Miss Agniezka of House Petrova Miss Elenore of House Decaden Miss Charelle of House Bishop Miss Amiyah of House Rutledge Miss Catlaya of House Colborn --- LIST OF ELIGIBLE SUITORS ROYAL SUITORS HSH Karl Sigmar of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar HRH Sergei Aleksandr of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar HRH Josef Frederik of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar HH Matyas Isaak of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar HSH Lucien Auréle of the Royal House of Ashford de Savoie MAINLINE NOBILITY HL Konstanz Wilheim of the Ducal House of Barclay HL Eugen Heinrik of the Ducal House of Barclay HL Mikhail Tuvya of the Ducal House of Ruthern HL Nikolai Vladislav of the Comital House of Othaman HL Leopold Sigmar of the Baronial House of Morovar HL Markus Nikolai of the Baronial House of Morovar HL Viorel Codrin of the Baronial House of Luceafăru HL Laurent Frederick of the Baronial House of Sarkozy NON-MAINLINE NOBILITY HL Matyas Joren of the Ducal House of Baruch HL Leopold Otto of the Ducal House of Baruch HL Maric Aleksandr of the Ducal House of Ruthern HL Pyotr Joren of the Comital House of Ludovar HL John Aurelian of the Comital House of Huntshill HL Borris Iver of the Viscomital House of Kortrevich HL Demitriyus Baswara of the Viscomital House of Kortrevich HL Nikolai Vladislav of the Viscomital House of Othaman HL Jakob Dimitrey of the Baronial House of Morovar HL Aleksandris Piter of the Baronial House of Morovar HL Anton of the Baronial House of Draskovic COMMONER HOUSES Mister Grigori of House Vyronov Mister Lukas of House Vyronov Mister Yves of House Carrion Mister Barley of House Wick Mister Zoran of House Kutznetsov Mister Juliyus of House Colborn What follows is the itinerary for our fourth Lifstala of Haense, which individuals are encouraged to host their own affairs outside of such if desired: PRE-SEASON PREPARATION ETIQUETTE LESSONS Those that are to participate in the season should be overjoyed to hear that the court tutors and governesses will be offering lessons for all within Hanseti-Ruska, and our esteemed visitors. A variety of topics will be discussed, primarily of dance and dining etiquettes, as well as a run through of introductory statements and positions in the presentations. “ONCE UPON A TIME” MASQUERADE A masked evening to shed your own skin, in favour of layers of silk and pearl. The Nikirala ballroom will be transformed into a hazy candlelit dance, where every man and woman shall have their identities hidden throughout the night, masquerading as who they please. The Queen’s Council will delegate an array of servants to assign those in attendance pseudonyms and noble status at the door. For a single night, a lady might just swindle a Prince, but it is only at the end where identities might reveal themselves. (OOC: Saturday, 26th March, 5pm EST) --- OFFICIAL SCHEDULE OF LIFSTALA THE PRESENTATION In accordance with tradition, the presentation of the debuting men and women of Lifstala will mark the official commencement of the Season. Each participant will have an opportunity to be called forth before the royal dais, accompanied by an escort. A crowd will gather in the throne room alongside prospective suitors, gauging both their competition and potential matches. Escorts, be they a patriarch, brother, or father, are advised to be in attendance with their relative once called upon before the Crown. A series of questions or comments are to be expected from the Queen and her Grand Lady, to tease out each participant’s character and history. Should Her Majesty draw her favour upon a particular man or woman, they shall be named the Ruskan Rose, a most eligible debutante. (OOC: Sunday, 27th March, 5pm EST) FEATS OF STRENGTH Men of this social season should expect to have a presentation more suited to their taste than in previous years, given the opportunity to display their prowess and establish themselves in the running. Within two Saint’s Days of the presentation, the men shall be called forth individually by the Queen and her Grand Lady within the Trelka hippodrome. A question shall be presented to them; is their strength that of the blade, horse, dexterity, or intellect? A task, in show of the source of their strength, and an overall winner proclaimed. He shall be awarded a blooming rose from the Nikirala gardens to publicly dedicate his victory to a lady of his choice, bestowing the rose upon her. (OOC: Tuesday, 29th March, 5pm EST) HOUSE CALLS Prior to the competitions of the season, those lords and ladies who wish to entertain prospective suitors may host house calls to do so. They are to do this soon after the presentations come to an end to assure the best possible matches. These house calls shall take place in the respective noble apartments of the Nikirala Prikaz, where each suitor is invited to know upon the door of the lord or lady they seek to court. Boxes for gifts shall be provided by Her Majesty’s council. Should one of the gentry or even the peasantry seek to partake, they are invited to make use of either a household within Karosgrad or the Nikirala ward apartments. Those who attend a house call and prove a promising match may find themselves paired in future coupling events throughout the Lifstala. (OOC: Thursday, 31st March, all day) IF THE ARROW STRIKES TRUE As house calls continue, all participants and non-participants are welcomed to Reinmar for an archery competition on the Duchy’s vast grounds. Men and women shall compete for the prize, attempting to hit a bullseye; a rather apt metaphor for this season. (OOC: Thursday, 31st March, 3.30pm EST) ST JULIA’S COMPANIONS Should the prospect of a house call prove too intimidating for some, fret not. In the gardens outside of the Nikirala, all those partaking in the season shall have an opportunity to introduce themselves in a more casual, yet personal manner. Small groups are to congregate around the maze and gazebo, with each of said groups ideally numbering three or four members. As this event occurs early in the Lifstala, it is important to build connections in order to avoid the bitterness that rivalry often entails. The members of each group shall be rotated in order for each individual to have a fair chance of speaking to one another. To spend the entirety of this event entertaining only one individual would be seen as extremely improper, unless said couple has been previously engaged. Under the watchful eyes of our chaperones, pairs who have felt a strong connection or have been matched through the compatibility quiz are encouraged to promenade the grounds. There will be many market stalls and activities for them to partake in, though should they wish to, they may simply lounge about the gardens. Those who are engaged may find this time useful to spend with their match that they might learn about one another. (OOC: Friday, 1st April, 6pm EST) A WOLDZKYEV FOREST As the first born daughter of the Baron and Baroness of Richtenburg, the debutante of lady Sorina Luceafăru will take place during Lifstala, expected to be a highly extravagant affair. As an ode to her heritage, Lady Sorina has chosen the theme of her debutante to relate to that of the Woldskyevan myths and folktales. Those in attendance will be required to come wearing a costume that relates to the theme and at some point during the evening, a winner with the best will be announced and given the title of Domn or Doamna of the Woldskyev Forest. This party will be invite only so all those wishing to attend must seek out Lady Sorina to receive their invitation card which will be required for entry. (OOC: Saturday, 2nd April, 5pm EST) A NIGHT OF PORTRAITS A night dedicated to the arts shall be held during the season to serve as a casual and intimate atmosphere for those partaking. Each shall be paired with another with whom they are to capture one another’s likeness, engaging in conversation, while walking away with multiple portraits in hand. Depending on the time and the number of participants, several rounds will be held and partners rotated with each. (OOC: Monday, 4th April, 4.30pm EST) THE DEBUT OF AN HEIRESS “UNDER THE SEA” The heir and first-born daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Valwyck, Isabel Alexandra Baruch, is to debut this season in an oceanic, grandiose event. Paying homage to her sea-faring ancestors, the Lady’s keep is to be bedecked with the most extravagant aquariums. It is rumoured that the Princess Anastasya may even make an appearance in an especially lavish ocean-esque costume herself, most certainly coinciding with the oceanic theme. For others who wish to attend, Lady Isabel humbly requests for all to dress in shades of blue to commemorate her love for the ocean. This event is sure to be a highlight of the season for certain, filled with dancing, drinking, fish-admiring, and much more. (OOC: Tuesday, 5th April, 5.30pm EST) A LOVER’S CHASE As night falls, those partaking in the Lifstala are invited to a game of the House and Hare; a chase through the Nikirala gardens and the woods surrounding Karosgrad. The ladies are to arrange themselves into a line, and on the sounding of the horn they shall race throughout the grounds as our hares. The men will remain behind until the second sounding of the horn, when they are to give chase to the hare they desire. Should a hound catch a hare, she may offer her favour for a stroll about the gardens. Should she refuse his advances, the hound shall go back to the chase until he finds a hare who finds him more pleasing. (OOC: Thursday, 7th April, 5pm EST) LORD’S SOCIETY & LADIES’ SLEEPOVER While the Queen’s Council endeavours to avoid creating bad blood between competing suitors, it is inevitable that it shall eventually arise. Knowing this, both the lords and ladies will be separated for a night in order to rebuild their relationships with those of the same sex, to allow a moment of rest amidst the flurried activity of Lifstala. Ladies shall remain in the rose wing of the Nikirala, to feast, drink and play games. The men shall move to a location which will be later disclosed by the Lord Palatine, who will lead the men's society through a raucous evening's entertainment. (OOC: Friday, 8th April, 4pm EST) COURT OF THE COLD RIVER Later in the evening, once both parties reconcile and attempt to repair relationships, a mock court will assemble. Held by the children of Haense, it will allow them to air their grievances and settle disputes that have since remained unresolved or unspoken. (OOC: Friday, 8th April, 6pm EST) “HAPPILY EVER AFTER” BALL To commemorate a fine end to this season’s regaling and festivities, all of His Majesty’s subjects are invited to the Nikirala Prikaz. The lords and ladies of the season are to dress in their finest attire, as their night shall culminate in dance with their suitor of choice. As the clocks strike midnight, and the night draws to a close, golden lanterns will be released over the city, to rise into the sky, casting our Kingdom in its golden glow. (OOC: Saturday, 9th April, 5pm EST) IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, Emma Karenina Barbanov-Bihar, Queen of Hanseti-Ruska Her Princely Grace, Georgina Sofiya Barclay, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska, Princess-Consort of Sutica, Duchess-Consort of Reinmar

VE LIFSTALA: AN OFFICIAL CALLING TO ELIGIBLE SUITORS UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 4th day of Jula and Piov of 414 ES TO ALL LORDS AND LADIES OF CANONIST STOCK, As the Dual-Kingdom prepares for the introduction of Ve Lifstala, the Queen’s Council does hereby extend an invitation to the various realms of Almaris should they wish to partake in the season’s festivities. The youth of our nations have matured into adulthood, and it is time that the conversation of marriages and familial alliances blossom and bear fruit. Those between their 16th and 25th name day will be deemed eligible to participate in the season. We shall not be discriminatory towards commoners or those with a writ of passage into our nation, but those that wish to present themselves must send word to the courts of the Nikirala Prikaz so that they are written into our list of permitted lords and ladies. (OOC: Sign up here https://forms.gle/FazbuhC2fGMuNaQy7) IV JOVEO MAAN Her Royal Majesty, Emma Karenina Barbanov-Bihar, Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska Her Princely Grace, Georgina Sofiya Barclay, Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska, Princess-Consort of Sutica, Duchess-Consort of Reinmar

Moda i ve Kort Published under the Mistress of the Wardrobe 3rd of Vzmey & Hyff, 413 E.S. GEMSTONES AND THEIR RESPECTIVE SYMBOLISM IN THE ROYAL COURTS OF HANSETI-RUSKA A gemologist's display of gemstones worn in the court. Dearest Readers, Haeseni fashion has escalated to new heights since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan Fashion. As the newly appointed Mistress of the Wardrobe within the household of Koenas Emma, Her Highness Nikoleta and her assistants shall continue to build upon Annika’s legacy and provide a new revitalisation and regulation of fashion standards, breathing in new life to the Haeseni court and exploring our culture. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: Gemstones and their respective symbolism in the royal courts of Hanseti-Ruska. Introductory; There rests a special meaning upon what we within the courts choose to don ourselves in. What does our clothing and jewellery say to those around us? For centuries, Haeseni tales and lore have associated stones with meaning, and it is the Mistress of the Wordrobe's desire for all those within the Courts to understand what these meanings are, as to better understand what our choice of clothing represents. Jewellery is the epitome of expression, displaying birthright for all to see an in order to properly do so. Without further adieu, below is a guide to the most common of gemstones that are found at court and what each symbolically represents. ---------------✰--------------- AQUAMARINE ---------------✰--------------- A stone of light and clarity, Aquamarine holds true to its seemingly calming complexion. The gem, being light and dainty, is often associated with clarity of mind and relaxation. Those who wear Aquamarine round their neck hail from educational and social superiority as those of the upper class have the access to a proper education and are expected to maintain a calm and noble demeanour. The gemstone also finds itself in several old wives tales, most saying that bringing the gem along long and arduous journeys will help dispel any fears of evil one may have the possibility of meeting. It’s important to note that Aquamarine is Queen Emma’s choice of gem, for these reasons. A Queen and her companions must have clarity of mind and be educated. ---------------✰--------------- AMETHYST ---------------✰--------------- Prinzenas Royal Petra’s Amethyst necklace Amethyst, being a rare beauty of nature, are not particularly common amongst the nobility of Haense. The stone, renowned by scholars as a stone of wisdom, is often worn by those seeking knowledge. Far and few between, Amethysts bring clarity of mind to its wearer, associating this clarity with wisdom and the ability to see and think clearly. Scientists and researchers often wear a simple Amethyst ring when they have the opportunity, as a symbol of their work and devotion to their scholarly arts. ---------------✰--------------- BLOODSTONE ---------------✰--------------- Bloodstone, a viridian gem freckled with crimson spots, holds an old connection to healing and homeopathic remedies. The stone is thought to improve blood circulation as well maintain blood purity for those injured. Going along with blood purity, in Ruskan tradition, women are often advised to keep the gem close on their wedding night, to ensure any children born from that evening are pure and well. Noble women and men are often found wearing a piece of the gemstone, rather it be hidden or easily visible to those around them, to signify their noble pedigree, as well as to quell any spells of frustration which may occur at court, as to not harm their image. ---------------✰--------------- DIAMOND ---------------✰--------------- Being the strongest mineral known to man, Diamonds are worn to signify the status and strength of its wearer. Worn only by Royals or high nobility on special occasions, Diamonds bring forth an air of class and hierarchy. Those who wear diamonds wish to display their status and wealth, as well as their strength, warriors and those with military achievement often being gifted a diamond for their bravery and unyielding ferocity. For Haeseni women, diamonds closely represent the ladies' status at court, whether it be displayed through jewellery or through intricate beading on their gowns. Many women associate diamonds with purity and rarity, associating the gem to the old Haeseni saying, “Be like a diamond, precious and rare, not like a stone found anywhere.” ---------------✰--------------- EMERALD ---------------✰--------------- Known for its unmistakable color, Emeralds are one of the most worn gemstones amongst the Haeseni courts. The stone itself is meant to signify a multitude of things, though the most common would be that of fertility. Married women are often seen wearing Emeralds along their dress belts in order to increase their likelihood of being with child. The stone is also known for putting an end to insomnia and depression, so one who may be wearing an emerald close to their heart or head may be struggling with sleep or mental health. Emeralds are thought to bring about self-knowledge and promote vivid dreams, helping the wearer wherever it is placed. ---------------✰--------------- GARNET ---------------✰--------------- A dowager's mourning necklace A stone representative of the passion and devotion of its wearer or that of those who gifted it. Should a garnet be given as a gift, it is a clear sign of lust and devotion they feel towards those they gift it to. Often considered a scandalous gift to give, gifts of Garnet are typically reserved for those who are married, although it is not unheard of for an unmarried couple to be spotted wearing such a thing. Garnet is also considered to be a stone of luck, bringing forth good business ventures and entrepreneurial ideas to those who wear it. Those who dabble in business and money-making can be seen donning a garnet to signify their success in their industry. ---------------✰--------------- PEARL ---------------✰--------------- Found often in the lakes surrounding Karosgrad, Haeseni freshwater pearls are renowned for their beauty and rare oval shape. The large abundance of these freshwater pearls lead them to being a staple for the Haeseni courts. Women and men are often donning pearls on their jewellery and clothing. You will often see noble ladies weaning dresses trimmed with pears and large teardrop pearl earrings which have grown to be a trend as of late. Though it is improper for a lady to don them on a Kokoshnik. Aside from their beauty, pearls are often considered to be a gemstone which represents loss. It is Haeseni tradition that widows are given a string of pearls to wear upon the death of their husband. Often having the string hang from their wrists or necks, a mourning widow will be seen wearing pearls at any given time. ---------------✰--------------- RUBY ---------------✰--------------- The stone of royalty, as it is known, the Ruby is often reserved for the Royal Family or the high nobility of Haense. The stone serves as a symbol of love and friendship, as well as luck. Haeseni lore states that Rubies open the heart of whoever is wearing one, bringing forth love and vitality. Princesses and daughters of Duke’s will often be seen wearing a Ruby around their necks during the time of Ve Lifstala to welcome in a good match for their awaiting heart. ---------------✰--------------- SAPPHIRE ---------------✰--------------- A portrait of Duchess Marie Ruthern’s necklace A gem often worn by mystics and those attuned with the supernatural world, Sapphires are often attributed with prophecies and predictions of the future, as well as connection to wandering souls. Should one wish to have a stone that wards off supernatural beings, Sapphire is the last place they should look as wearing the stone serves as a beacon to curious spirits, good or bad. Sapphires, aside from their mystical abilities, are a stone that also represents prayer and connection to faith. The stone is often seen on brilliant displays of religious artifacts, bejeweled into many crosses and rosaries. They are also donned by most of the Koenas Council, due to these meanings. ---------------✰--------------- TOPAZ ---------------✰--------------- Long believed by ancient people to give the ability of invisibility, Topaz is a symbol of those wishing to go unnoticed within the Haeseni courts. The stone is often worn by lower noble houses and commoners as a symbol of their lower status in society, just like the muted and duller colour of the stone. Aside from societal standing, the stone also represents the balancing of emotions and is thought to bring strength in the face of adversity, allowing its wearer to maintain their composure in a crisis. SIGNED, HER ROYAL MAJESTY, Emma Karenina Barbanov-Bihar Queen of Haenseti-Ruska HER HIGHNESS, Nikoleta Barbara Morovar Mistress of the Wardrobe HER LADYSHIP, Margot Sofiya Baruch Assistant to Mistress of the Wardrobe

Moda i ve Kort Published by the Mistress of the Wardrobe 12th of Tov ag Yermey, 411 E.S. VEILS ag SASHES A Barclay girl donning a veil, circa 410 E.S. Dearest Readers, Haeseni fashion has escalated to new heights since the rule of Koenas Annika and her efforts to encourage the resurgence of Ruskan Fashion. As the newly appointed Mistress of the Wardrobe within the household of Koenas Emma, Her Highness Nikoleta and her assistants shall continue to build upon Annika’s legacy and provide a new revitalization and regulation of fashion standards, breathing in new life to the Haeseni court and exploring our culture. Without further ado, we present Moda i ve Kort: Veils ag Sashes. A Nikirala handmaiden runs around from room to room, handing out Moda i ve Kort to any lady or gentleman that was in sight! No one was safe from the news of the Mistress of the Wardrobe. ---------------✰--------------- Veils ---------------✰--------------- "A sign of piety and modesty, the veil is a staple for all Ruskan women's wardrobes.” Veils and hair coverings have always been a long standing tradition within Haeseni culture, originating from many generations past. It’s usually a symbol of one’s connection to Canonism, and for others, it is meant to demonstrate their modesty to the courts. Colors and Embroidery The colors and embroidery styles of these headdresses often vary. Depending on how lavish the fabric of the veil is, it may be a way for a lady to showcase her wealth and status. However, certain veil embroidery is off limits, depending on what the lady’s status is. Roses and extravagant blooms are highly encouraged for the ladies of Ducal houses, while smaller, more modest blooms are encouraged for Margravial and Komital houses. Simpler designs, like leaves and fruits are encouraged for the ladies of Viskomital and Baronial houses. Gold embroidery, the most lavish of them all, is reserved for royal women and Duchesses only. Black is the most frequently seen due to its religious significance and symbolism of one’s devotion to Godan. It is often worn during funerals and times of mourning, but is befitting of any woman of status. White bears the symbolism of purity and is mostly worn by ladies during their debutantes and wedding days, though royals and Duchesses can wear this shade whenever they please. However, if a formal ball or event in particular has a certain theme in which white is a requirement, it is not seen as improper to don. Pastels are mostly seen in young women, though children rarely adorn them as they are not encouraged to wear veils. Darker colors are often seen donned by older women, though it is not uncommon or improper for either to wear the other. When to Wear In recent years, married women have reverted back to older traditions of donning veils. It would not be uncommon to do so, after having borne children. While the youth are encouraged for different reasons, whether that be their religion or noble house, it is not as important for them to don one daily. If a woman of child birthing and marriage age, and has done neither it is less important for them to don a headdress. Once they start to show signs of aging, then it is more appropriate. Length Furthermore, the length of the veil is often used as a way to demonstrate a lady’s wealth and status, where long veils are traditionally worn by Queens, Princesses and Duchesses. On the other hand, Baronesses, Viscountesses, Countesses, and untitled noble ladies would adorn themselves with shorter ones, some as measly as a common napkin to quickly cover their hair before entering a religious sight. "The Ripping of Impropiety” Were a harlot to be seen adorning a veil, it is expected of others to rip it off her head unless she has done penance for her sins, which only a priest can truly confirm, not the woman in question. A veil is a primary symbol of a lady’s piety and therefore, it would of course be unnatural for someone of such a sinful background to wear such. ---------------✰--------------- Sashes ---------------✰--------------- "A well-worn sash is a woman’s badge of honor. A poorly worn one is her embarrassment.” Unlike the veil, the sash is a garment often worn only for special occasions. As tighter clothing is undesirable in the ever-present Ruskan cold, the wearing of a sash too is seen as a rarity. A common woman would never be seen in one - that would be entirely inappropriate. While a noble woman would likely not have reason to wear such a garment beyond her own wedding, a Baroness or any lady of a higher status may be seen in a sash at balls and debutantes, or, should she be at one of the lucky few, meetings of the Queen’s Council. When and How to Wear The wearing of a sash at an inappropriate time is not such a terrible offense as to have it ripped from one’s shoulders, although any woman who wishes to appear as if she has taste should seek caution. Indeed, the greatest embarrassment when wearing a sash would be to drape it over the improper shoulder. According to Haeseni tradition, a woman wearing her sash draped over the right shoulder would indicate that she was married, whereas wearing it over her left would indicate that she was single, and perhaps even looking for a husband. For this reason it’s often rare to find a young girl wearing a sash, as neither meaning would befit her age. Colors Alongside the drape of the sash is, of course, the meaning of the colors. In majority, the color of the sash will correspond to the traditional symbolism of colors in Ruskan culture. A red sash is the emblem of Hanseti-Ruska. It is commonly worn by high ranking nobles and royalty alike - for it’s complementary scheme with most sorts of dresses, and its darker colouring befits the Haeseni style of dressing. If one refers to the color symbolism study, they might take inspiration for the hidden meaning of their own sashes. ---------------✰--------------- Notable Heirlooms ---------------✰--------------- Sashes and veils have been prevalent in the history of Haeseni fashion, yet they have made a grand resurgence within the last few years in particular! Thus, it is not uncommon for families of great renown to possess heirlooms, such as elegant sashes or veils passed down from generation to generation. Princess Katerina Ceciliya, for instance, was one of the first to popularize the sash around the time of her debut. She had adorned herself with an elegant robin’s egg blue sash, symbolizing her grace and elegance. Following Princess Katerina was Princess Petra Emma, who donned a light red sash to symbolize her openness to courtship. Both of these sashes are honored within the House of Barbanov. It is advised that other families who possess heirlooms such as these don them appropriately so as to honor their meaning in a similar way. We encourage families who own heirlooms, such as historically significant sashes or veils, to inform the Mistress of the Wardrobe of their existence so that she may include them in future informative publishing's like this one. Closing Words We thank you for reading, and we do hope that the ladies of the royal courts heed our advice. Fashion etiquette is what symbolizes a respectable lady’s elegance and poise, as well as her own self-awareness and manners, after all. Be wary and be well, ladies of the courts! Signed, Her Royal Majesty, Emma Karenina, Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska Her Highness, Nikoleta Barbara Morovar Mistress of the Wardrobe Her Grace, Lady Marie Ruthern, Duchess-Consort of Vidaus Lady Chamberlain of the Royal Courts Her Ladyship, Erika Renate Barclay Head Assistant to the Mistress of the Wardrobe Miss Agnieszka Petrova Assistant to the Mistress of the Wardrobe

RENOVATIONS OF THE NIKIRALA PRIKAZ NOBLE APARTMENTS UKEN VE KRAWN I ROZZ Issued by the QUEEN’S COUNCIL On the 13th day of Vzmey and Hyff of 409 ES It has always been a right for the nobility of Haense to hold and govern their own lands; from the nearby keep of the Duchy of Reinmar, to the faraway Barony of Richtenburg, much of the Kingdom’s land is distributed between the various noble families. However - with this privilege comes its own shortcomings; important meetings, festivities, and much else, is usually beholden to the Crownlands. The Nikirala Prikaz had, for some time, been in need of renovations. Parts of the upper palace nearing a derelict state, due to misuse for many years. Most recently, a poor servant grew ill from inhaling black mould that had been propogating upon the walls of her bedchamber. A wider construction process was thus commissioned by Her Royal Majesty, Queen Emma Karenina, spearheaded by Her Royal Highness, Princess Anastasya Isabel, to save the upper floors of the Nikirala Prikaz. The decision for the new layout came both out of fear that it would simply fall into the same disrepair as before, if the areas served little to no purpose as they had previously; and the desire to relieve the pressure of travelling from the nobility. As such, the upper floors of the Nikirala Prikaz, whilst still including offices for various of the Aulic Offices, have now been mostly dedicated to noble apartments for each of the different landed houses in our Kingdom, so that they may easily be able to stay in the capital and the Crownlands whenever they are needed, or desire, to do so. SIGNED, Her Royal Majesty, Emma Karenina Barbanov-Bihar, Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska Her Royal Highness, Princess Anastasya Isabel Baruch, Lady Treasurer of Hanseti-Ruska, Duchess-Consort of Valwyck, Duchess of Karlsburg, and Baroness of Antioch