ViewerDiscretion_

THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE SILVER HAND “Vide Nostra Opera…” Dedicated to supporting skilled craftsmen, preserving their works, and maintaining standards of excellence, the Fellowship of the Silver Hand is an organization of like-minded, accomplished artists, tailors, jewelers, architects, carpenters, and stonemasons who strive to provide quality work above all else. The Fellowship operates according to a charter, which primarily dictates that members shall, instead of regular dues, offer five percent of their earnings to the guild, and additionally mark their works with the Fellowship’s icon. In exchange, members enjoy access to the Silver Hand’s resources and facilities, with which they may practice and continue to hone their craft. GUILDMASTER Often one of—if not the most—experienced artisan in the guild, the Guildmaster is entrusted with the responsibility of regulating prices of crafts based upon skill, and settling disputes both within and beyond the guild. It is also the Guildmaster’s duty to ensure that standards are maintained among the artisans, to preserve the reputation of the guild. Appointed to his or her position by selection of the previous Guildmaster, the Guildmaster occupies their office until their death, their retirement, or a majority vote for their removal. MASTER ARTISAN Master Artisans are those with twenty or more years of experience in their crafts, or prodigious skill, who almost exclusively take on projects of grand scale or exorbitant price. Oftentimes accused of being mercurial or exacting, Masters are those who exert a singular focus on their art. They are responsible for examining promising young apprentices and laborers, and promoting them to Artisan or Apprentice, or sending them off to continue their training for another term. ARTISAN Artisans, having completed their training, are entrusted with guiding new apprentices—refining their own mastery through the act of teaching. As the hands that shape the majority of the guild’s works and fulfill many of its commissions, they form the very foundation upon which the guild stands. APPRENTICE Apprentices often begin as laborers within the guild, their skill and promise first revealed in the general lessons conducted by the Master Artisans. Chosen by a Master Artisan and placed under the guidance of a skilled Artisan, they continue the study of their chosen craft. Though it is not forbidden, apprentices are advised to pursue no more than two trades so that they may more fully master the knowledge set before them. LABORER Laborers are directly responsible for the mining of precious stones, metals, and various necessary materials vital to the production of goods that the guild produces. Theirs are the first hands to touch any fine piece of jewelry or grand structure, enabling artisans to work without wearing out. While laborers do not receive commission on pieces sold, they are paid an annual wage by the guild based on the amount of work they do. OOC: https://discord.gg/RnSq2rBWgQ The Honorable, Sir Varik von Wesenburg Patriarch of House Sturmweber, Ritter of the Order of Saint Tylos, Guildmaster of the Fellowship of the Silver Hand

Disappointing as a queer member of the community to see vague and redundant rules like this. I enjoy the RP opportunities presented by lore-bound discrimination, whether that stem from international tensions, ethnic tensions within races, etc. To me, RPing as a marginalized character is fun, whether through the intrigue inherent to a secret romance or the triumph of reaching a high position in government despite facing discrimination along the way. I agree that protections must exist to create a safe environment for the community to thrive. However, I sincerely believe that this is a step in the wrong direction. I know others are already expressing this sentiment, so TL;DR, big ups to these guys:

It has been long since I withdrew myself from the public eye, making token few appearances to sit among the Landtag at Moot. During my long absence, I have raised a son, tended my family’s land, and managed the affairs of my House. Furthermore, a new era has dawned for Reinmar, one which I feel a new generation must seize. Therefore, I pen this missive to announce my stepping down from my long held position as Herrenmeister of the Order of Saint Tylos. I trust that the future will see a new and great Stallion of Reinmar ascend to guide our most honored warriors. Immer Bereit Varik von Wesenburg Patriarch of House Sturmweber

"KRETZENFEST!!!!!" Sir Varik cheers excitedly!

Varik's shoulders slumped forward as the news of Frederica's death reaches him. His gaze falls upon the fields of wheat, waving in the harsh winds of his Northern home. As he stares, his mind wanders, remembering his time serving the Princess. Truly, he had considered her a friend, as well as an inspirational figure in Reinmar. Her presence will be sorely missed, surely.

"Oh sister..." Varik sighs, gazing into the hearth before him. "I had so hoped to speak with you again." With that, he slumps deeper into his seat, reminiscing on the old days. "Through battle and strife, you stood proud, since that day you climbed the tower."

The village of Reinhurst seeks enterprising souls to staff its various public services. Should a position seem enticing, please do not hesitate to inquire, for the positions shall be filled by the first qualified applicant. Do not miss out! The Reinhurst smithy needs a skilled blacksmith, to take commissions and stock the shop with goods. An applicant should have a collection of work to present as proof of competence. In addition, the blacksmith should expect to pass down the trade by taking on apprentices, though only at their discretion. Reinhurst’s very own tavern, The Trusty Maiden, is in need of a proprietor, to manage the business and collect its revenue, as well as a barkeep, to serve customers. Applicants may seek both positions, such that the tavern’s proprietor is also the sole employee, therefore eliminating the cost of paying the barkeep. Opportunity and toil abound… His Excellency, Varik von Wesenburg, HMSTSR Herrenmeister of the Order of Saint Tylos, Patriarch of House Sturmweber, The Stallion of Reinmar, Kastellan of Westturm

“You keep your eye on the queen, and the knights, and the bishop, because they are the sneaky ones. But it’s the rook that often gets you. The straightforward is never quite what it seems.” Chapter I: Die Geschichten | The Histories The story of Wesenburg cannot be told without first telling the story of the first patriarch of House Sturmweber. Roland von Sturmweber was born on the 7th of Sigismund's End, 1888 as Robyrt Taranis on the island of Galta; a trade post and mining town in the far off Eastern seas of Almaris. His mother and father, Donal and Meave Taranis, were of mixed Waldenic descent, their ancestors having fled the mainland decades prior, to establish a company on the island. This company, the Taranis Mining Guild, provided a steady income for local workers and tradesmen. At the age of 8, Roland began working in the charter office, helping his father with mundane tasks like custodial work. At age 12, he learned about all kinds of ores, their properties, and what alloys could be made. While not explicitly learning about blacksmithing, Roland did have a natural affinity around the forge. He didn't see the task as overwhelming, and aspired to become a smith one day. However, apprenticeship would have to wait, as the threat of privateers grew ever more significant. By age 16, Roland and his family actively supplied the defense of Galta, and even served in the militia, repelling attacks by pirates, mercenaries, and opportunists. Roland decided, upon reaching the age of 26, to leave Galta for Almaris, to make a new and better life for himself. After a brief stay in Adria, Roland departed for Minitz as Heinrik’s Rebellion was on the rise. Upon his arrival, Roland’s good friend Peter attested that he would be a prime addition to Theoderic’s Warband, a favor which paid off. In times when the Reinmaren remained fractured under the crowns of Aaun and Haense, in the Principality of Minitz, Roland, the future Baron, came together with three of his Reinmaren brothers and sisters to form his tribe. Before Prince Ferdinand I and all in attendance, within Kanunsberg’s moot hall, the four spilled their blood in Schwur, binding themselves together eternally. As one, the tribe served Minitz in war and peace. Roland served as Warchief, leading the Warband of Minitz, and later as Erstkanzler, head of the Herrenhaus, after Brandt I. Meanwhile, Sir Varik served by the sword, as a Ritter of the Order of Saint Tylos, and Hirdman to Leon II. Their sister, Mariola, served in the Warband, quickly achieving the rank of Soldat thanks to her prowess. When the time for Reinmaren Unification came, Tribe Sturmweber was one of the first to cross the Ailmere, making camp on the land where Reinmar’s great capital, Kretzen, would soon stand. When Kretzen’s walls were raised, the Sturmwebers continued to serve, Roland as Erstkanzler, Varik as Herrenmeister, and Mariola as Unterlandser and Hirdwoman to Princess Adalfriede von Hexenwald. It was not long following the completion of Kretzen that the members of House Sturmweber, Roland and his wife, Violet, and their children, Bernhardt and Lieselotte, Sir Varik, and Mariola, were brought before the Heather Court by Prince Leon II, and issued the letters for Wesenburg, a Baronial title. The Prince named Roland a Baron, and his family took the Wesenburg surname in kind. In bestowing the title, the Prince rewarded Roland and House Sturmweber for decades of dutiful service to Minitz, Reinmar, and House Barclay, the Prince’s own family. Construction of Wesenburg Manor, upon the family’s Baronial land, was finished after Roland’s death, in 1993. Due to the death of Roland’s son and heir, Eduard, the title was passed to Roland’s grandson, Oswald, with Sir Varik serving as Lord-Regent until the boy came of age. The manor’s construction, and the construction of the village of Reinhurst in the surrounding area, were overseen by Varik, and a fountain statue was made at Varik’s express request, in Roland’s memory. The statue depicts a man with a staff adorned with a lantern, which leads the way, forging on into the future; thus, it is named Der Anführer. Chapter II: Unser Schwur | Our Oath The oath taken by Roland, the first Baron von Wesenburg, and his kin, was to serve Reinmar and the Barclay crown. For such, Roland and his family were rewarded with the Barony, and given land on the Northern frontier, nestled between Kretzen and the great river to the north. That river, and the Barony itself, now on its southern bank, is what separates Reinmar from the hostile, frigid North. The Barony, situated to the North of Reinmar’s capital, Kretzen, is rich, both in fertile soil by the river, and in emeralds, mined from the cliffs. Additionally, the Baronial territory guards a key land bridge, which crosses the river separating the North from the South. The strategic value of this crossing means the Barony of Wesenburg stands as Reinmar’s Northern shield, the first line of defense against any Northern threat. Thus, with such resources to defend, and that defense being so critical, the Barony hosts siegeworks and smithing, as well, keeping such crucial industries close at hand. The philosophy of House Sturmweber has always been that of the Rook. A tower, stalwart, unflinching, and dutiful. As the stewards of the Barony, this ideology manifests in all their works, across Wesenburg land. As entrepreneurs, with Sturmweber Company LTD., the House thrived in Minitz; as such, the Barony of Wesenburg has commerce central to its identity, always pushed to thrive. Tobacco and grain grow aplenty in the Barony, as do the roots of House Sturmweber’s ambition, long since cultivated in Minitz. In their early days as a Tribe, the Sturmwebers tested those tribesmen who wished to join them, by having them climb a tower, getting to the top by any means. Using one’s wits and cunning was the only true path to success, of course, as this was the merit Roland most valued. Chapter III: Unsere Lebensart | Our Way of Life The tower is the primary element of the family’s heraldry, as well as to their way of thinking, symbolizing fortitude and vigilance. The other central heraldic element is a pair of keys, which represent access to knowledge and power. All of these themes were central to the founder, Roland’s, ideals and as such, they are what the family was built on. Thus, the culture of the barony closely mirrors such. Like all other Reinmaren, the subjects of the Barony of Wesenburg value loyalty, competence, and piety above all else. While somewhat more welcoming toward outlanders, as a vassal situated on Reinmar’s rural frontier, the Reinmaren of Wesenburg are much less trusting of them. Roland, the first Baron von Wesenburg, was a pragmatic man, eager to allow strangers to prove themselves, but still he was shrewd and cunning, wary of the tricks and schemes others play at. Being such a rural settlement, tucked away in the Reinmaren countryside, the Barony’s primary settlement, Reinhurst, consists mostly of cottages, which reflect the attitude and lifestyle of its population. The village is ideal for those Reinmaren who live there, enjoying a simple life in the spacious frontier, with fresh air and cold river water aplenty. A prominent fixture of the Barony’s local tradition is the cultivation and use of tobacco. A significant portion of the farmland in Reinhurst, for example, is dedicated to tobacco plants. When the time comes to harvest, every Reinmaren living on the land participates in some way, from directly harvesting the crop to bundling the leaves, transporting bundles, processing the tobacco, and even rolling cigars and cigarettes. As such, every resident is entitled to a portion of the harvest and the rest is stored for later sale by Sturmweber Company LTD. In the rare case that an individual prefers not to receive the product of their labor as compensation, a payment of gold may often be arranged instead. Another tradition borrowed from the capital is Reinhurstfest. Though, naturally, being that the Barony often tends to distinguish itself in some ways, unlike Kretzenfest, Reinhurstfest is longer and focuses more on the mercantile aspects of the festival, serving as a year-long merchant faire. Traditionally, halfway through the year, the Baron hosts a feast for all of Reinmar in Reinhurst. In addition, for the duration of the year, no taxes or fees are collected by the Treasury, as a show of the Baron’s great wealth and generosity. As indicated by the traditions of Reinhurstfest, the Barony of Wesenburg has a strong mercantile culture. As such, and including the Barony’s role as a vassal, there are several industries which thrive there. Foremost, of course, is Die Kriegsfabrik, the Wesenburg siege factory. Specializing in the manufacture of artillery for the Host of Saint Johann to deploy in times of war, there stands a foundry, assembly yard, and a large crane, nestled along the riverbank in Reinhurst. Nearby, against the cliff of the landbridge, is a forge and smithy, called The Anvil’s Bane. Operated by longtime friend of Roland, the first Baron von Wesenburg, Barlord Bronzerock, The Anvil’s Bane is the first, and greatest, smithy in the Barony. In Reinhurst’s market square, Sturmweber Company LTD., the company owned by House Sturmweber, also has a stall, which is where much of the Barony’s tobacco can be purchased.

As word of Miss E's death reaches Sir Varik von Wesenburg, he grimaces, almost wincing, as if in pain. With a heavy sigh, he wrings his hands, his mind cluttered with grim thoughts. "So young..." he mutters. So many of his friends and acquaintances seem to be dying recently. Despite Miss E fitting comfortably in the latter category, he'd certainly expected to see her around for many, many more years. This death, though distant, strikes somewhat deeply, proving the fragility of life, no matter how long it should last...

Sir Varik von Wesenburg silently stares into his blazing hearth after the news reaches him. He knows mourning shall set in quickly across Reinmar, and a heavy sigh escapes him. Varik pours himself a glass of wine and lights a cigarette, in honor of the late Prince Alfred.

LANZENSAMMLUNG VON 1976 I.T. Gathering of Lances of 1976 I.T. Issued by the Order of Saint Tylos in the year of our Lord 1976 I.T. RITTER VON TYLOS UND REINMAR, Following the scheduled gathering of ritter and lance of the sons and daughters of Tylos, various topics of discussion were held; Thus, it is discussed by the ritters; The conclusion of Albert Barclay’s squireship ^ Squire Albert Barclay has completed his trials faithfully, and is considered for elevation to Ritterhood by the Gathering. Thus, it is decided by the ritters; Albert Barclay will be knighted at the next Moot. Thus voted the Ritters of the Council: "Thus, Albert Barclay shall be raised as a Ritter of the Order of Saint Tylos." Thus, it is discussed by the ritters; The aspirant to the Order, Ivona von Kretzen ^ Ivona von Kretzen has been brought before the Gathering by Sir Varik to request that she be admitted into the Order as a squire. Thus, it is decided by the ritters; Ivona von Kretzen will become a squire of the Order of Saint Tylos. Thus voted the Ritters of the Council: "Ivona von Kretzen shall be inducted into the Order of Saint Tylos, as a squire." Thus, it is discussed by the ritters; The matter of Johanna Stroheim’s squireship ^ The Squire, Johanna Stroheim, has been a member of the order for sixteen years and has yet to be knighted. The resolution of the issue of her home is dubious, therefore the Gathering will once again vote on the matter. Sir Peter argues that the squire’s inactivity should not bar her from knighthood, as it is only temporary. Thus, it is decided by the ritters; Johanna Stroheim shall not be made a Ritter of the Order of Saint Tylos. Thus voted the Ritters of the Council: "Johanna Stroheim has not been seen in Reinmar, so she cannot join the ranks of Reinmar’s Ritters." Thus, it is discussed by the ritters; The matter of Johanna Stroheim’s membership within the Order of Saint Tylos ^ The Squire, Johanna Stroheim, has twice been denied knighthood by the Gathering of Lances. However, Sir Varik was convinced by Sir Peter’s argument in favor of her elevation, and brought to table the idea of allowing her to retain her squirehood, until such time as she is able to return to activity in Reinmar. Thus, it is decided by the ritters; Johanna Stroheim shall remain a squire of the Order of Saint Tylos. Thus voted the Ritters of the Council: "Johanna Stroheim is not at fault for her absence, therefore she shall be allowed to remain in our Order." WER RASTET, DER ROSTET, His Excellency, Varik von Wesenburg HMSTSR Herrenmeister of the Order of Saint Tylos, The Stallion of Reinmar, Kastellan of Westturm HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, ALFRED, Fürst von Reinmar zu Sutica GMSTSR, ROKSG Prince in Reinmar and of Sutica, Duke of Reinmar, Count of Kretzen and Freimark, Baron of Madvon and Freising, Lord of Sankt Johannsburg, Neuburg, Wilheburg, Erwinsburg, Freiburg, and Rozenfeld, Grandmaster of the Order of Saint Tylos, High Chieftain of the Reinmaren HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, LEON, Fürst von Reinmar zu Minitz GMSTSR Prince in Reinmar and of Minitz, Count of Neu Brandthof, Viscount of Tucay, Baron of Boriënwald, Lord of Durres, Chieftain of the Reinmaren, Grandmaster of the Order of Saint Tylos, Warden of the Franklands and Ferdenwald

LANZENSAMMLUNG VON 1974 I.T. Gathering of Lances of 1974 I.T. Issued by the Order of Saint Tylos in the year of our Lord 1974 I.T. RITTER VON TYLOS UND REINMAR, Following the scheduled gathering of ritter and lance of the sons and daughters of Tylos, various topics of discussion were held; Thus, it is discussed by the ritters; The appointment of the new Herrenmeister, Sir Varik von Wesenburg It was mentioned by Prince Leon Barclay II that Sir Varik von Wesenburg was prepared to assume the position of Herrenmeister, and that, should Sir Stanton be willing to step down, Sir Varik would have the support of Prince Leon. Thus, it is decided by the ritters; Sir Varik Ritter von Wesenburg will be elevated to Herrenmeister of the Order of Saint Tylos. Thus voted the Ritters of the Council: "Thus, Sir Varik is raised to Herrenmeister of The Order of Saint Tylos." Thus, it is discussed by the ritters; The Squireship of Johanna Stroheim The Squire, Johanna Stroheim, has been a member of the order for fourteen years and has yet to be knighted. Prince Leon has suggested further postponing her knighting until such time as her sole residence is within Reinmar’s borders. Thus, it is decided by the ritters; Squire Johanna Stroheim will not be raised to knighthood until she makes Reinmar her only home. Thus voted the Ritters of the Council: "Johanna Stroheim shall not be elevated to knighthood until she calls no place home except Reinmar." Thus, it is discussed by the ritters; The exemption of the Grossmeisters from the roster limit Since the transition from Minitz to Reinmar, The Order of Saint Tylos has had a roster limit imposed upon it, with membership not to exceed ten Ritters. Sir Varik von Wesenburg suggested that the Grossmeisters not be counted amongst the Ritters for the purposes of this roster limit. Thus, it is decided by the ritters; The Order’s roster shall be allowed to be composed of ten Ritters, alongside the Grossmeisters of the Order, who shall not be counted against this number. Thus voted the Ritters of the Council: "The Grossmeisters of The Order of Saint Tylos shall not be counted amongst the number of Ritters, for the purposes of the limitations on the Order’s size." WER RASTET, DER ROSTET, His Excellency, Varik von Wesenburg HMSTSR Herrenmeister of the Order of Saint Tylos, The Stallion of Reinmar, Kastellan of Westturm HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, ALFRED, Fürst von Reinmar zu Sutica GMSTSR, ROKSG Prince in Reinmar and of Sutica, Duke of Reinmar, Count of Kretzen and Freimark, Baron of Madvon and Freising, Lord of Sankt Johannsburg, Neuburg, Wilheburg, Erwinsburg, Freiburg, and Rozenfeld, Grandmaster of the Order of Saint Tylos, High Chieftain of the Reinmaren HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, LEON, Fürst von Reinmar zu Minitz GMSTSR Prince in Reinmar and of Minitz, Count of Neu Brandthof, Viscount of Tucay, Baron of Boriënwald, Lord of Durres, Chieftain of the Reinmaren, Grandmaster of the Order of Saint Tylos, Warden of the Franklands and Ferdenwald

"Down with the outlander! Down with the Valite!" These were the words that had rung out during the Moot. Sir Varik von Wesenburg simply nods his head as the passions of the Moot come down as an official edict.

Sir Varik von Wesenburg dons GREEN warpaint! "RAAAAAHHHH GELIMARSSONS! DOWN WITH THE THEODERIKIN"