Mirtok

Moved to The Great Library. It shall be sorted into the appropriate category shortly. If you feel this is a mistake, please contact myself or another moderator.

Moved to The Great Library. It shall be sorted into the appropriate category shortly. If you feel this is a mistake, please contact myself or another moderator.

I originally thought of it to be a feat but once I got to writing it I figured I'd leave it open to the ST on whether or not is should be allowable for general alchemy. Because it has additional practices and procedures involved outside of just extracting signs and brewing potions, it should be a feat.

I wasn't entirely sure how to specify it as an FA for the submission but I think it makes sense to. I could further describe the disadvantages of performing this kind of work on unwilling participants, essentially the success rate of a proper extraction would be lower. I mainly wanted to leave the door open for players to use it for good (therapy or preservation), bad (memory theft or manipulation), and neutral (make/sell memory trinkets) motives. I appreciate the feedback!

Thanks for the feedback and questions. With regards to using it for TA/teaching, it could be done with the trade off being that whoever is providing the knowledge is also removing it from their head for themselves. The lore has it that knowledge is an essence but only about 5 minutes worth of thinking. One who is highly skilled or proficient in something can either offer up the memory of the moment it clicked for them in RP (the epiphany) or spend the time to think through a complex concept utilizing the foundational understanding of the subject and then offer that to the student. I'd be open to feedback more on this idea to make sure its balanced well enough that its not a TA easy button. Your scenario with sending mysterious mind clips to some poor victim, you absolutely could, I reckon the Dwarf would become more insane as they continue to give up more of their own memories to the backs of Ravens for people to find.

Alchemy - Mind Melding Background The intricate dance of reality is one of an eternal controlled chaos. Where the various planes of existence ebb and flow in perpetual motion, leaving only sudden moments of lucidity called memories. These memories are what gives life meaning and they become our most precious companions. Even though we may cling tightly to them, their existence is fleeting, often becoming distorted, forgotten, or eventually decaying entirely from our minds. For millennia, many have sought to combat the fragility of remembrance, to commemorate themselves and their experiences, in order to defy time's inexorable march. Alchemy has often been regarded as the quest for material transformation, with gold and eternal life being its most coveted prizes. However an ambitious branch of this esoteric art, known as Mind Melding, delves deep into these core motivations by offering a solution to the transient nature of memory. Mind Melding does not merely document memories- it captures, preserves, and breathes life into them. By extracting these memories and sealing them within crystalline vessels, an individual's experiences, wisdom, and emotions are granted permanence, ensuring they survive long after their mortal vessel has faded from the physical world- achieving immortality . . . at a price. Explanation Mind Melding is the process of isolating, extracting, and stabilizing certain essences of the mind. Within the mind are four key essences that when combined form a raw memory. These essences organized by increasing levels of complexity are called: Aetherial Essence (Emotions) Luminous Essence (Visual) Echoing Essence (Audial) Immutable Essence (Knowledge) A practitioner of Mind Melding is called a Remembrancer, performing therapeutic or scholarly services for willing participants and clients. Someone who utilizes Mind Melding for nefarious purposes is called a Neuromancer, often ostracized by all if ever found to be misusing the art. The mind is a perfect machine when it comes to producing, combining, and utilizing these essences and memories but is curtailed by its own fragility and malleability- memories can become overwritten or decay. Mind Melding seeks to make up for these shortfalls by deconstructing memories back into essences and subsequently reconstructing those essences back into memories within a more enduring medium. In order to preserve the integrity of each essence, it is common to extract each one individually. It is possible to extract multiple essences at once but there are greater risks associated with doing so. Once extracted, these essences can be further processed in a number of different ways depending on the intended use. The product of combining all four essences is called a Raw Memory. The process of stabilization changes Raw Memories into Complete Memories. When essences are stabilized but not combined to form a Complete Memory, they are known as Memory Fragments. Memory Fragments can exist as the individual essence or a combination of the others. Once stabilized, Fragments or Complete Memories are then able to be used, be it for consumption, preservation, or alteration. Without stabilization, Fragments or Raw Memories will decay. Once isolated, the process of extraction must be carried out or else the essence may be viewed as a rogue agent by the body and destroyed. Once extracted, Essences and Raw Memories are removed from the mind. They can be added or readded to the mind through the appropriate preparation process. Minds are highly likely to reject foreign Essences or Raw Memories after a certain amount of time without employing means to deceive it. In order for implanted essences or raw memories to take long term, it is highly recommended that the subject is sedated and the mind given a dream suppressant- such as the Tum Somnum potion. Stabilized Fragments and Complete Memories are able to be interpreted by specialized instruments. They can also be returned to raw or essence form. Essences may be consumed in their unstabilized form with some risks involved. A subject undergoing Mind Melding processes may be conscious or unconscious. Consciousness is preferred as the subject is able to aid the isolation process of the desired memory. An unconscious patient will yield unintended extractions or unreliable results due to the potential interferences of the dream state producing its own essences. Subjects should be made to actively concentrate on the intended memory, or as preparation, be exposed to conditions that would immerse the mind in the desired memory. The subject must consume the appropriate isolation agent(s) to release the essence(s) for extraction. Extraction occurs through ethereal osmosis by affixing a Memorite to the back of the neck at the base of the skull. When the body attempts to flush the essence through the spine, the Memorite will intercept it. Memorite is a form of stabilization. In order to further interpret or repeat interpret essences or memories contained within it, it must be subjected to additional processing. The following are some known interpretation methods: Memorite with Aetherial Essence: The Memorite can be turned into a fine powder and inhaled. Due to the light gray hue of the powder, it is often referred to as ‘Gray Matter’. Inhaling the powder will invoke the emotions and feelings of the essence, void of context or tangible details. The effect will last for 1 hour. The Memorite can be inserted into a Chromolizer which reacts to the emissions of the contained essence and displays a range of colors to represent them. Due to the simplicity of the Chromolizers construction, it can be as small as a piece of jewelry or as large as a chandelier. Memorite with Luminous Essence: The Memorite can be cut such that a lens is formed on its exterior. By bringing the lens close, the images within can be viewed void of sound. Memorites are able to store 5 minutes of images before looping. The Memorite can be inserted into a Macrolumin Projector, where light is hyper focused through the Memorite and channeled to an opaque material. The detail of the images is highly dependent on the quality of light used. The images would lack color. Memorites are able to store 5 minutes of images before looping. Memorite with Echoing Essence: The Memorite can be cut with a hollow cavity prior to loading with essence. Once loaded, it can be placed over the ear. Depending on the shaping of the cavity, the sound quality is affected. Memorites are able to store 5 minutes of sound before looping. The Memorite may be inserted into a Fonograph that reacts to the subtle vibrations of the material and translates them onto a vinyl disc. This disc can then be replayed. Memorites are able to store 5 minutes of sound before looping but multiple Memorites may be transcribed onto a disc, disc size depending. Memorite with Immutable Essence: The Memorite, when loaded with Immutable Essence, has been observed to produce electrical signals that can be translated to a mechanical vessel equipped to receive and perform very basic functions. At this time, there are no known devices or vessels that are capable of translating or applying complex thoughts or concepts. Memorite with a Complete Memory: The Memorite can be inserted into a combination device called an Omnibus that applies the interpretation techniques of the Chromolizer, Macrolumin, and Fonograph. At this time, there is no known device that is able to interpret Immutable Essence to the degree of the others. The memory may then be viewed synchronized with color, images, and sound. Memorites are able to store 5 minutes of a memory. Extracted essences or raw memories are removed from the mind of the subject. The subject will be unable to recall elements of or the entire memory following the procedure. An unwitting subject of this procedure will likely not even recognize the memory gap unless attention is drawn to it. Excessive essence harvesting may result in dissociation and eventually Memory Bleed. This is a result of the mind's natural processes becoming too unstable to adequately produce, combine, and utilize essences. Excessive harvesting occurs after five failed essence extractions within a 24 hour period or a combined 15 extractions within the period of a week. Memory Bleed leads to either a comatose state or ego death. Mind Melding is a complex form of alchemy that if not carefully and expertly carried out will result in extreme mental harm to a subject. Potions & Crafts Memorite (Common | Tier 1) Memorite Solvent (Common | Tier 1) Aetherial Isolixir (Common | Tier 1) Luminous Isolixir (Common | Tier 2) Echoing Isolixir (Common | Tier 2) Immutable Isolixir (Rare | Tier 3) Memory Confluessence (Rare | Tier 3) Redlines

The Kingdom of Balian ~ The Kingdom of Balian, 1943 ~ ~ Commissioned by King Adrian Novellen, Cartographed by Rainier DeNurem ~ In a realm where the sun kisses the sea, lies the Kingdom of Balian, a radiant pearl set along the storied Rubicostaissmia. Its warm golden shores cradle islands that rise like emeralds from the clear blue depths to the West. Each a sanctuary of secrets and beauty, shrouding an intense richness of natural wealth. Along the Northern border, the ground ascends to touch the heavens themselves. The mighty Oeste Mountain Range stands guard over the lush oasis below. Its evergreen peaks veiled in mist and mystery run a divide to the Sons of Malin beyond. These towering ridges and cliffs have witnessed eons pass, their slopes rich in lore, life, and the promise of nature's bounty. To the East, the ascending plateaus of the Valle de San Lothar play host to a canopy of white trunked ancients, offering shade upon fertile fields. The heartland of Balian is a carefully woven tapestry of rolling hills, a symphony of greens, grain, and where palm trees sway in the wind telling the tales of old. The gentle rolling hills at the foot of the mountains are graced by the soft touch of the Rubicostaissmia sun. Like devout followers, they serve as a testament to the Creator's poetry, where every breeze carries a song and every dusk a promise of peaceful dreams. Beneath the gentle waves of the Ruby Coast lies another world altogether. Vibrant coral reefs rise from the ocean floor, teeming with life, mesmerizing beauty, and color. It is said that merfolk and sea sirens dance amidst these coral groves, serenading the marine life with their ethereal songs- spurring an abundance for the Capital City of Portoregne’s fishermen. Yet, the wonders of Balian are not only in its light touched allure. Deep within the belly of the Kingdom lie veins rich with gemstones. The mines of Balian, legendary throughout Aevos, shimmer with the brilliance of diamonds. This phenomena, a testament to the shared wealth and prosperity of its people. To wander through Balian is to walk through the pages of a living epic. Where every stone, stream, and starlight has a tale to tell. It is a realm of timeless splendor, a beacon for those in search of wonder in its purest form.

An enfeebled alchemist- Drasus- reflects on the status of the Human leaders in the world as this treatise comes across his desk . . . "Imagine wielding the trust and strength of a nation just to turn around and behave cravenly at the most witless of threats. Anti-Imperial or not, if you kowtow to the threats of morons then you are just as pathetic as the wig wearers you abhor. To call yourself a leader, a Human, a descendant of Horen, and bend to faithless raiders- you might as well affix yourself to the bow of the ferry and screech the sea sirens song, you absolute parody of dignity. Thank GOD there are still those who aren't brain addled to the point that the only solution left to them is to erase rational thought so as to assuage the onset of fear wrought of violent threats. Rejecting Imperialism by blindly boot licking a violent Imperialist. For shame. I relish the end of pompous powder touters but at the expense of Humanities moral station . . . what could be worse." He would sputter and cough after the rant, clearly malding from his own thoughts. The sterilized bottles he was working with becoming contaminated with angered sweat dripping off his ruined brow.

Genealogy of House DeNurem Always Faithful, Always Loyal Ov Uskog, Ov Usiellig House DeNurem Family Tree The History of House DeNurem House DeNurem's legacy traces back to the early 1300s, when Mirtok DeNurem, while faithfully serving the Teutonic Order, laid the foundation. The name itself, 'DeNurem', pays homage to the Order's birthplace in the lands of Aegis, Nuremberg. In adherence to the customary nomenclature of Northern cultures, 'DeNurem' roughly translates to 'from Nurem'. Mirtok, alongside his brother Darius DeNurem, a Mali’ker with questionable blood ties, chose to forego siring progeny during their formative years, wholly dedicating themselves to the cause of the Teutonic Order. It was during this period of fervent service that the respected DeNurem Industries was established in the year 1330. The company was later formally integrated into the Teutonic Order, and emerged as the epicenter of technological research and the crucible of military production for the organization. In recognition of his dedication, Mirtok was eventually elevated to the rank of OrdernMarschall, or General, within the Teutonic Order. As the era of Aegis drew to a close after the collapse of the Nether, House DeNurem, along with the Teutonic Order and the newly founded Realm of Hanseti, found themselves forced to seek refuge in Asulon. After their journey, the House's membership remained largely limited to the two brothers. In Asulon, Mirtok played a pivotal role in establishing the capital city of Dresden. However, after a disagreement with the new Hochmeister of the Order, Samuel Bealcrest, led to Mirtok and his brother's exile to the Northern region of Hanseti. It was here that Mirtok founded the city of Watcherstadt, committing his followers to stand vigil against the Kingdom of Renatus, their aggressive Northern neighbor. After Samuel Bealcrest's assassination, Mirtok's rapidly ascended to the position of Hochmeister and worked tirelessly to fortify the Realm. He enlisted the Hansetian civilian population into military service, instilling the values of the Order throughout. Additionally, the Realm's defenses were bolstered against potential invaders from the Northern kingdoms through a series of strategic construction projects. Tensions escalated between the Realm of Hanseti and the Kingdom of Renatus with the emergence of Godfrey Horen. After years of bitter military conflict, Mirtok sought an audience with Godfrey, leading to a pivotal meeting at the grand sentinel statues guarding the gate into the Realm of Hanseti. It was there that Godfrey articulated his vision for a united Humanity, an Empire. Moved by the original goal of the Teutonic Order, Mirtok aligned with Godfrey's vision and pledged the Order, and subsequently the Realm of Hanseti, to his cause. ~ The Hochmeister, Mirtok DeNurem, 1350 ~ With the inclusion of Hanseti in the Imperial vision, the Holy Orenian Empire finally took shape. House DeNurem was granted a duchy, with Mirtok named the Duke of Hanseti. Additionally, the Teutonic Order was recognized as an official knightly order, conferring gentry status upon all its members. Darius DeNurem joined the side of the Emperor, being dispatched on countless personal missions from which he was rewarded greatly. He received a personal knighting from the first High Pontiff, Gideon Silverblade, and was appointed Count of Karth for his service. Darius would later be elevated to the sole Imperial Justice, acting as Godfreys answer to domestic malcontent. In the later 1300s, Mirtok would lead the Teutonic Order in expanding the Empire's influence and strength across the known world. Following several military conquests, Mirtok was elevated to the status of King of Hanseti, establishing House DeNurem as a royal lineage alongside the venerable House Hightower. In 1414, the lands of the Kingdom of Hanseti were rendered uninhabitable by calamitous flooding. This disaster extended its reach to the rest of the Descendant nations, prompting a forced migration to the uncharted continent of Anthos. House DeNurem, entrusted with sailing ahead of the Imperial ships, secured a foothold in the untamed lands. Mirtok established a colony in the North of the Imperial settled lands, carving out from the vast Northern mountains Castle Greywynn as his capital. Leading the Teutonic Order, House DeNurem became the stalwart protectors against the Northern wastes, home to a host of twisted creatures, including the Bohra, a fierce race of boarmen prone to mindless violence. ~ Castle Greywynn, Anthos, 1419 ~ When the final boats arrived at Anthos in 1420, the Empire began to take on its new form. Under Emperor Godfrey Horen's direction, House Blackmont and House Carrion were placed as subjects of the Kingdom of Hanseti. This decision sowed internal strife within the Kingdom, as House Blackmont had long been rivals of House DeNurem and the Teutonic Order. Mirtok forged an alliance with neighboring House Green through his marriage to Allison Green. In 1425, Mirtok and Allison welcomed twins, a son named Booker DeNurem and a daughter named Winter DeNurem. This alliance grew stronger as noble and royal houses within the Empire extended mutual military support against House Blackmont, a rebranded version of the notorious House Flay that had terrorized many in Asulon. A civil war eventually erupted within the Kingdom of Hanseti, with Augustus Blackmont, the head of House Blackmont, challenging House DeNurem's claim to the throne. The war initially favored House DeNurem and their noble alliance, until House Blackmont secured a marriage alliance with House Chivay. With the formidable Order of the White Rose joining the war effort, members of the noble alliance began to defect in fear. Those who remained by House DeNurem's side included House Hightower of the Kingdom of Salvus, House Silverblade, House Ishikawa, House Green, and the Order of the Lions. The civil war came to a climactic end during the Battle of the Dreadfort in the mid-1400s. Although House DeNurem was defeated, Augustus Blackmont did not claim the title of King. ~ The Battle of the Dreadfort, 1430 ~ In the aftermath of the defeat, Mirtok DeNurem rallied the remnants of his forces and directed them towards a campaign into the Northern Wastes. Bohra attacks had intensified during the civil war, threatening to spill into the rest of the Empire if left unchecked. Mirtok vanished from the lands of Anthos during this campaign and was not seen again for decades. In his absence, House Blackmont and House Carrion largely claimed the lands of the Kingdom of Hanseti as reparations from the civil war. Emperor Horen, son of Godfrey, disbanded the Teutonic Order after Jonathan Black's failed interim administration and the mysterious destruction of Castle Greywynn. As the Empire announced its exodus to the lands of Aeldin, Booker DeNurem became a ward of the Imperial household and accompanied Emperor Horen. Allison Green and Winter DeNurem remained in Anthos, finding refuge with House Green. House DeNurem slipped into a period of obscurity with the majority of Imperial institutions relocating to Aeldin and the loss of their titular lands. Darius DeNurem, retaining his titles, embarked on a monastic path in pursuit of atonement for past transgressions. He would ultimately complete his exile from the remnants of the Empire in the wake of The Scourge in 1457, a period marked by racial purges against Elvenkind. Darius used this time to orchestrate the takeover of the Princedom of Malinor, leveraging his position to wage war against the new Human Empire, led by House Carrion, in the 1460s. Following the migration to Athera in 1468 by the nations of the world, House Chivay assumed control of the Empire. It was during this period that Mirtok DeNurem resurfaced, reestablishing House DeNurem as a military power. He revived the Teutonic Order and opted to govern the Hansetian people through a military junta instead of assuming the title of King of Hanseti. Darius retained the title of Prince but abandoned his hold over Malinor and reunited with his brother in Hanseti. Darius wed a woman named Caitlyn, and the couple had a daughter, Elizabeth DeNurem. It was also during this time that he founded the enigmatic 2-11 Mercenary Company. Mirtok used this time to care for his subjects and provide a sanctuary for Northerner kind. He achieved this by forming the Northern Commonwealth alongside prominent Northerner families like Clan Orvar and House Rovin of Aesterwald. ~ The City of Snowdrift, Northern Commonwealth, 1470 ~ During this era of reconstruction, Mirtok was fortunate to reconnect with his daughter Winter. However, in 1472, he chose to disband the Teutonic Order, redistributing its wealth among the Hansetian people and making a substantial investment in the Kingdom of Aesterwald. Mirtok then mysteriously vanished, never to be seen again. Darius DeNurem quietly departed from the realm with his own growing family, which now included his son, Lazarus DeNurem. Winter DeNurem married Francis I, Duke of Adria, and had children under the House Vladov name. In the aftermath of Mirtok and Darius’ disappearances, House DeNurem once again faded into obscurity. In the Isles of Vailor, around the year 1502, several of the progeny of Darius DeNurem gathered in the Mali’ker city of Ker’nor. This marked the formation of Clan DeNurem as a subset of House DeNurem. Lazarus DeNurem had been living amongst the Orcish War Uzg for decades. In that time, Darius had departed from his son to pursue an undefined agenda. Lazarus would leave the War Uzg after a time and venture out on his own, meeting a fellow Mali’ker by the name of Aearonel while on his journeys. From the union of Lazarus and Aearonel DeNurem came four more Mali’ker children; Grimwald, Aly’shal, Sileath, and Legatus. As well, two grandchildren; Rolim and Alisaera DeNurem. The DeNurem Clan rose to relative prominence in Ker’nor, holding multiple positions among the city's government and military. In the year 1530, the city was devastated by a violent volcanic eruption. Grimwald DeNurem led evacuation efforts for the citizens of Ker’nor and secured a deal with the Mali’ame of Laureh'lin to shelter the refugees. Unfortunately, Clan DeNurem would not be able to reestablish itself and the members of the family scattered across Vailor to seek new opportunities. It wasn't until the late 16th century that House DeNurem would resurface under the leadership of Darius. After pledging allegiance to Emperor John III Owyn in 1578, House DeNurem rallied House Rothgard and House Huntly to its banner. Darius was granted the title of Baron of Mordskov by the High Pontiff in 1582. Little is known about the events that transpired in the Barony of Mordskov, except that it eventually became perilous to inhabit due to a thanium enriched miasma that permitted the land. Sometime in the mid-1600s, Mordskov had become largely uninhabitable and deserted. ~ The Barony of Mordskov, 1613 ~ Parallel to Darius’ rule in Mordskov, House DeNurem continued to endure, outside the chronicles of the Descendant races, under the lineage of Booker in Aeldin. Sometime in the 16th century, Booker DeNurem's grandson, Viador II DeNurem, arrived in Vailor and perpetuated his house. In 1725, Alren DeNurem was born, a direct 9th-generation descendant of Booker DeNurem. In 1743, Alren ventured to Arcas and settled in Helena, the capital of the 8th Holy Orenian Empire under Emperor Peter III. Conscripted into the Imperial State Army during the Rubern War, Alren DeNurem embarked on a distinguished military career. He implemented extensive reforms within the Imperial State Army, greatly enhancing the Empire's offensive and defensive capabilities. Alren commanded Imperial forces to victory in six campaigns and played a crucial role in the success of the descendant nations during the Inferi War. In 1781, he was granted the County of Mordskov, and in 1795, he was appointed as the 4th Generalissimo in Human history by Empress Anne I. Alren expanded the influence of House DeNurem through his military and administrative triumphs. In 1740, he married Gwyneff Efferstadt, and in 1745, they welcomed a son, Alaric DeNurem. Alaric joined his father in the service of the Imperial State Army, and they both earned gentry titles within the Order of the Lion. Alaric further extended the DeNurem lineage by having six children. Notably, in 1772, Drasus DeNurem was born. ~ Portrait of Sir Alren DeNurem the White Bull, Count of Mordskov, 1770 ~ Drasus continued to bring honor to House DeNurem through his scholarly pursuits in architecture and engineering. This led to his appointment as Secretary of the Home Office for the Imperial Government in 1808. After a productive 30-year career in administrative government, Drasus was selected as the Archchancellor under Philip II in 1838. Drasus, a renowned alchemist, followed in his grandfather's footsteps by delving into military technologies. Unfortunately, his reign as Archchancellor was cut short in 1845 by an explosive accident that left him feeble and unable to speak. A few years later, in 1849, the Empire witnessed the ascension of Philip III. This marked House DeNurem's retreat from mainstream politics and prominence. The County of Mordskov was put into abeyance, and members of the House departed from the Empire. House DeNurem gradually faded away as the Holy Orenien Empire descended into turmoil. In the present era, House DeNurem endures. Its members are dispersed across various Human nations, each finding their purpose and station. Notably, within the Kingdom of Balian, Admiral Dante DeNurem commands respect and authority respectively. In service to the Kingdom of Aaun, Darius DeNurem has emerged to lead the centuries-old 2-11 Mercenary Company once again, becoming a Knight Errant in the process. Other DeNurems have been known to frequent the Commonwealth of Petra and the Most Serene State of Lurin.

The final hour of the competition drew to an end as fishermen from many lands and stations in life rushed through the front gates of Portoregne. Buckets and bags dripping with the days catch were hurriedly emptied into barrels, hoping to score some final points. Rainier totaled up each competitors haul and assigned points respectively. With the final barrel recorded, it was time to announce the winner . . . "In 3rd place, Casimir Vilac @LazyBacon220 with 82 points!" "In 2nd place, Ezren Kervallen @SapphirePool with 111 points!" "And in 1st place, with 141 points, the winner of 200 mina and the title of 'Adrians Angler', we have Lorand Korvacz @imkenobi!"

Balian Briny Bonanza ~ Portoregne Harbor, SA 146 ~ The vibrant tapestry of cultures and tradition that is Portoregne bustles with activity as the sun overhead gently warms the colorful city. The air is filled with the intoxicating aromas of freshly baked bread, roasting coffee, and sizzling seafood. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with charming shops and cafes, and the lively markets are overflowing with colorful produce, fresh seafood, and fragrant spices. Fishing boats bob up and down in the harbor, their nets heavy with the day's catch. The abundance of fish in the waters surrounding Portoregne is one of the city's greatest treasures. The Bay of Sirens is home to a wide variety of fish, including Tuna, Isleskippers, Salmon, and Ocean Wardens. For many, the waters offer a comfortable living and the citizens of the Kingdom take great pride in their fishing skill. Posted at multiple public spaces is an advertisement adorned with detailed illustrations of various fish in the margins of the page . . . His Royal Majesty, Adrian, King of Balian, is sponsoring a fishing competition hosted by DeNurem Delicacies, dubbed the Balian Briney Bananza! The competition is open to all those who would wish to try their luck and skill at harvesting the bounties of the sea. To the top three fishermen will go the treasure! 1st Place: 200 Mina and the title of "Adrian’s Angler" 2nd Place: 100 Mina 3rd Place: 50 Mina Contestants will have 1 Hour to find a piece of shoreline to cast off from and catch as many fish as they can. Depending on the rarity of the species caught, points will be accumulated for each catch. The fisherman with the top three highest scores will win. Refer to the following table for the point breakdowns. Common: 1 point Uncommon: 2 points Rare: 4 points Epic: 8 points The rules are simple: Pre-caught fish are not allowed Personal fishing gear is allowed No other person or contestant may help or add to another's score 1 hour is allotted for catching and depositing in a contestant's respective submission barrel All manner of sea creatures native to Balian are legitimate submissions Registration for the event will be allowed until 15 minutes before starting. Pre-register through Rainier DeNurem of DeNurem Delicacies or respond to this advertisement with the following information. Name: ((MC Name)): Fishing Experience: ((Event starts Friday, 22 Sep @ 6:30pm EST, meet at the square inside the capital city of Balian. Recommend arriving early to ensure registration with the event. Respond to this post with the above details or contact on discord at mirtok))

Cadet Draco DeNurem wiped the sweat from his brow as the cacophony of battle subsided and the cheering of his comrades filled the air. Victory had been won and the aggressive advances of those under the mountain were driven back. It has been quite the physical exertion chasing his quarry as the enemy Dwarves with their Human battle chattal in tow circled the city for hours; skulking about like a timid predator hoping to score a quick bite from their prey. When the squats comically dropped in from the tree line, he was finally able to extract the satisfaction he had been chomping at the bit to obtain. The fighting was quick but brutal, Draco swung his mace with the skill of a novice soldier as he had yet to graduate basic training, but swung it he did. For a moment he had been caught unaware and a well aimed blow caused him to collapse to the ground, boots stomping about him as Man and Dwarf tangled in mortal combat. It was the likes of Lieutenant Antler that came to his aid, dragging him from the blood stained soil to his feet. He allowed a moment of breath before he charged headlong into the fray once more. "FOR THE EMPEROR!"

Within the mighty confines of the Bastion, Cadet Draco looks about his comrades enjoying a lavish meal before their inevitable deployment. The news that war has been declared between his mother nation and their neighbors to the South was an exciting prospect but it weighed heavy on the minds of his fellow soldiers. Draco offered some words to those seated around him. "I shame that the noble King of the Dwarves has been so grossly misled by his own kin. A shame too that he has such a loose grip on those that bring mayhem and violence to foreign lands. We will not stand for the assault and mutilation on any of our citizens, regardless of race. If the men under the mountain would wish to march on Imperial soil, we shall be there at the fringes grinding their stone bulwark into dust through the mill of war." Breaths in a breath, allowing a moment of silence to permeate before raising his voice to a booming toast . . . "I raise a tankard to their warriors and ours for answering the call of duty but my hammer shall rise in tandem. To arms comrades, to war!"

Within the mighty confines of the Bastion, Cadet Draco looks about his comrades enjoying a lavish meal before their inevitable deployment. The news that war has been declared between his mother nation and their neighbors to the South was an exciting prospect but it weighed heavy on the minds of his fellow soldiers. Draco offered some words to those seated around him. "I shame that the noble King of the Dwarves has been so grossly misled by his own kin. A shame too that he has such a loose grip on those that bring mayhem and violence to foreign lands. We will not stand for the assault and mutilation on any of our citizens, regardless of race. If the men under the mountain would wish to march on Imperial soil, we shall be there at the fringes grinding their stone bulwark into dust through the mill of war." Breaths in a breath, allowing a moment of silence to permeate before raising his voice to a booming toast . . . "I raise a tankard to their warriors and ours for answering the call of duty but my hammer shall rise in tandem. To arms comrades, to war!"

Cadet Draco combs through his Imperial State Army field guide as he progresses through his basic training regime. He idly cracks his knuckles, his jaw clenched, and his eyes fixed upon the words scratched into the pages. He yearns to complete his training and join his comrades on the field of battle. He growls through gritted teeth in an empty study hall in the Bastion . . . "We will drive back these aggressive mutilators back with nothing less than a righteous Imperial fury." He pauses, snapping back to his task "Ah faechken, I lost my place!" Vulgar Old Marian grumblings continued as the aspiring soldier continued with his studies.

From a booth in the Destiny's Crossroad Tavern, the Home Secretary raises a tankard of mead above his head. With a tinny croak, his metal mask shielding his visage from his barstool compatriots, he offered a toast . . . "To be surrounded by friends is a virtue and it is ever more virtuous that such friends have accepted the light of God into their hearts. May their patron saint watch over them and offer protection against those who lets their soul be consumed by the evils of Iblees."

A response is sent back to the applicant enclosed in a lily white envelope sealed with a deep purple wax stamp. Congratulations! Your application has been reviewed and meets most of our standards in order to proceed further along the process. We will need to cover concepts for expansion and what sorts of new buildings that are intended for the Burough before final acceptance. A letter shall be dispatched immediately to schedule a meeting in the Capital to discuss further details about your application. We look forward to doing business with you and to the prosperity you will bring to the Empire. Godspeed. Drasus DeNurem, Secretary of the Home Office of the Holy Oren Empire

Drasus had not yet laid eyes upon the hellscape that has plagued the lands South of East Fleet. Of course he had heard plenty of accounts and tavern rumors but such were just stories to him at that point. It was a kind fortune of the Heavens that the destruction had not spread much further than it did, and that the Dwarves had managed to find reprieve in their mighty underground keeps- he would suspect the porous mountain range took the brunt of the corruption and blast when Ando fell. The Vicechancellor had asked the Home Office to update the land survey for the South as a means to get ahead of whatever calamity might seep unto Imperial soil, and it was a good thing he did. On what was supposed to be a routine stroll through the agrian countryside, giving greetings to the hard working Petrine farmers, turned out to be a distressing affair for the injured Home Secretary. As he came upon the newly renovated Destiny's Crossroad tavern, billowing smoke emanated from a wheat field just past the hedgerows that bordered the Emperor's Road. In his youth he would have sprung into action, hoping to fight the fire or at least whoever started it. But as he peeked his head over the foliage wall a brutal sight of soldiers fighting for their lives against an otherworldly magic presented itself. An Imperial State Army patrol must have been pulled into an engagement with an unknown foe to Drasus. He thought that it was unlikely that they would have had time to send word for backup and by the looks of things, injuries were mounting upon the battle hardened warriors of the Empire. With what little Drasus could do, his physical state ruined by the hubris of his own alchemical adventures, he prepared a message and sent it directly to the aviaries of the Bastion. From behind his metal mask that disguised an unrecognisable face, Drasus muttered . . . "Godspeed comrades, the cavalry is coming."

Drasus would receive word of the diplomatic agreement while visiting the Capital city of Providence on business. He would sit idly with his physician, Doctor Pruvia, over a horn of mead within his private office. With a metallic chuckle he would remark . . . "The Carrion Lord begins to descend upon its poor fetid prey. The many years of basking in the austere desert heat has withered them away, what is left shall soon be consumed by the grim scavenger. I'm sure they both fear their own starvation, but it's plain to see who will be feasting on who here. A pity."

~ Drasus' Laboratory in the DeNurem Manor, 1845 ~ It was a rather pleasant morning in the County of Mordskov, nestled along the Northern borders of the Grenz. Drasus sat idly at the family meadery that sat atop a small bluff overlooking the pond. Glimmers of light reflect off the water's surface and onto the facade of his family's estate. The gentle chirping of birds and the occasional croak of some far off toad echoed over the cool alpine air. He looked about the tasting room where patrons would come to sample the latest batch of mead affectionately fermented by his Grandfather Alren. Bringing a glass up to his face, he took a swig of his choice vintage, Mordskov Reserve. The same drink of choice of his grandfather, he thought to himself what a life that man had led. Although Alren had never received any formal education in the arts of alchemy, under his watch the Empire was able to develop incredible weapons of war- cannons. Said weapons proved invaluable during the Inferi Incursion as hordes of demonic spawn eek forth from an otherworldly plain, threatening all that the descendants had stood for. If it were not for those cannons many brave Imperial soldiers would have lost their lives against such indomitable foes. Titanic monsters rampaged across Korvassa were only ever brought low by the mighty power of a humble powder. Drasus on the other hand was fortunate enough to be guided in the arts of alchemy by masters of the craft. An old comrade of his father and grandfather, Doctor John Pruvia took him under his wing and showed him the ancient lexicon of the alchemical symbols. He showed him how to render the regents from flora that the common man would otherwise overlook. How to combine ingredients, temper them, process them, and yield products that seemed greater than the sum of their parts. But so much of what he was able to do had already been done countless times before, and though handy, were far from revolutionary. It had been a great number of years since last the Empire was locked in conflict; But happy is that country which in times of peace think of war. With the duties of the Archchanceller at the forefront of his mind, he was motivated to discern that next great discovery that would ensure the continuation of this great era of Imperial peace. He finished his drink, taking in one last deep breath of the bountiful fresh air of his home before he had to resume his work. He maintained a laboratory within the grey stone protection that was the DeNurem Manor- if one could call it that. During the off seasons with the Imperial Diet, Drasus found that he had a considerable amount of time on his hands that he could spend on any number of innovations and projects for the Empire. It was during this lul that he decided to take on a feat of similar stature to that which the Generalissimo Alren had done at a similar age. The raw power of gunpowder was something to behold in its own right but was still very much a crude and chaotic force. Donning a sophisticated set of spectacles with varying degrees of magnifying lenses, Drasus poured over a collection of writings that he had been working on over the past two years. Various diagrams of cannon barrels, itemized lists of ingredients that comprised a standard batch of gunpowder, detailed observations of the combustion process, and something else that looked untested. He was certain he had not been the first to think of it but thus far none have actually been able to achieve it. He muttered to himself . . . “There must be a way to refine gunpowder in order to produce the same projectile force but in a more wieldy form. Could it really be as simple as reducing the scale? But then the propellant as it is doesn't yield the same power proportionally. It must be the recipe then, a new ingredient or combination thereof that will achieve what I am looking for. Or maybe something else entirely? There simply must be a way to harness the mechanics of cannonry but in a handheld form.” Several ideas burdened his mind, each an entire undertaking on their own. But he was an industrious man and it wasn’t too often he shied away from a challenge. In the months following, Drasus compiled an ever growing collection of raw and refined materials, countless diagrams populated the walls of his lab, a number of prototypes pending projects occupied the tables, books penned by his own hand filled every available shelf space. He had meals brought down to him, rarely leaving his academic sanctum, his focus locked on discerning the secret answer for his self prescribed quest. With each trial, failure, and adaptation, he could feel himself inch ever closer to his goal. Each attempt bringing new understanding or inspiring new leads to pursue. He was close and he knew it. For the first time in months, the obsessed white haired alchemist allowed himself a break from the toils of discovery. He once again returned to his familial meadery where his son Dimitri was hard at work tending to the honey bees. Soaking in the warm sunlight into his now even paler skin, he closed his eyes while sat on a bench facing the pond. The sounds of nature about him were ever more pleasant having been so immersed in the pinging of hammers, the grinding of mortar and pestle, the shrill pops and bangs of failed attempts at explosive propellants echoing off the cold stone walls in his lab. For just a moment, Drasus’s mind was freed from its analytical prison. But in a flash, his eyes snapped open and the noise of the world around seemed to quickly recede into silence. His heart began to race, blood rushing to his face . . . “I’ve got it.” Without so much as another word, Drasus hurried off towards the stone manor. Dimitri looked up from his work, peaking an eyebrow in slight concern for the sudden haste exhibited by his aging father. Just then, his wife Sorrow strolled down the trail that led down from Dobrov with a fresh batch of flowers in hand. He smiled at her and resumed collecting the alpine honey that was a staple good for the family business. As the sun moved across the sky in the hours since, Dimitri enjoyed the same peace and tranquility that had seemed to give Drasus a much needed moment of clarity. Although he had not lived out careers of splendor like his father Drasus, grandfather Alaric, or certainly not of his great grandfather Alren, he was more than content with tending to his family and the County. He dutifully managed the bee colonies that provided a comfortable livelihood for his siblings and maybe even one day his own son. Dimitri wasn’t one to want, merely to be fulfilled in the humble pleasures that life offered in the way of purpose and love- both of which he had found. As the sun began to set over the Mordskov valley, Dimitri packed up his tools and locked up the meadery doors for the night. He had also managed to finish the most recent batch of Mordskov Reserve, setting aside a bottle for his father that he intended to bring down with his nightly meal. With food in hand, Dimitri ascended the steps up into the tower in which Drasus kept his lab. He could hear strange clinking noises muffled through the floorboards above him. Thinking nothing of it he continued up each step until he reached the final flight of stairs ending in a heavy reinforced wooden door. Upon drawing nearer to the door, the clinking sounds were replaced with some sort of whiring or buzzing that Dimitri had never heard before. Just as he reached his hand up to push open the door and deliver his fathers meal, he was suddenly lifted from his feet. There had been no time to process in his mind what had happened. A violent flash of light. Was there a boom? Dimitri was killed on impact when he hit the opposite wall, the door to his fathers office ripped from its hinges and flung into his limp corpse. His body lay crumpled mid way down the flight of stairs, his bones largely shattered, and blood leaked from his head feeding a sickening red pool. The atmosphere of the chamber was clouded in debris and lingering particles that obscured the light that shone through the now destroyed windows. Black smoke wafted out from the vacant doorway into Drasus’ laboratory. The floors and support beams of the building creaked and groaned, seeming as though they would collapse after withstanding such an intense blast. Something yet still stirred from inside the blackened room, labored shuffling, a raspy breath. The rest of the DeNurem family rushed to meet whatever calamity had occurred, shocked at the scene of carnage presented to them. Vatar DeNurem, Drasus’ daughter, made a dash past all the destruction looking for her father. Her shrieks broke the momentary silence. “Someone send word to Doctor Pruvia! We need to let the Emperor know what has happened immediately!”

A response is sent back to the applicant enclosed in a lily white envelope sealed with a deep purple wax stamp. Congratulations! Your application has been reviewed and meets our standards in order to proceed further along the process. A letter shall be dispatched immediately to schedule a meeting in the Capital to discuss further details about your application. We look forward to doing business with you and to the prosperity you will bring to the Empire. Godspeed. Drasus DeNurem, Archchancellor of the Holy Oren Empire A response is sent back to the applicant enclosed in a lily white envelope sealed with a deep purple wax stamp. Congratulations! Your application has been reviewed and meets our standards in order to proceed further along the process. A letter shall be dispatched immediately to schedule a meeting in the Capital to discuss further details about your application. We look forward to doing business with you and to the prosperity you will bring to the Empire. Godspeed. Drasus DeNurem, Archchancellor of the Holy Oren Empire

Imperial Appointment to the Council of State Vicechancellor 9th of Sun’s Smile, 1844 The DeNurem Ministry hereby appoints Her Imperial Highness Princess Josephine Augusta as the Vicechancellor, effective immediately. Since being awarded with the Privy Seal by the Emperor, she has provided invaluable wisdom and experience to the various branches of the Ministry. As well, Her Imperial Highness has served as an effective understudy to the Archchanceller, prompting the ascension to this position. Her expertise in city planning, foriegn diplomacy, internal operations, and canonist law are all items of great interest by this administration and the Crown. We expect that Her Imperial Highness’ return to the Council of State in this official capacity will further accelerate the explosive growth of the Empire and the endless strive towards providence for all. Signed and Approved HIS IMPERIAL EXCELLENCY, Drasus DeNurem, Archchanceller

Imperial Appointment to the Council of State Secretary of Foreign Affairs 2nd of Tobias’ Bounty, 1843 The DeNurem Ministry hereby appoints Her Excellency Anna d’Arkent as the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, effective immediately. The Ministry wishes to extend its gratitude to Her Excellency Eliza Brae-Wittenbach, for her unyielding dedication, strategic diplomatic vision, and tactful execution of the will of the Crown as the now former Secretary of Foreign Affairs. The groundbreaking achievements of Her Excellency shall carry the Empire for generations to come on the international stage, with friends in many nations across the continent, to weather any obstacle that stands in the way of Imperial providence. We trust this success shall continue and grow under the careful stewardship of Her Excellency Anna d’Arkent, who has amassed 20 years of diplomatic experience and has served as the under-secretary of the branch during its most successful era in a century. Signed and Approved HIS IMPERIAL EXCELLENCY, Drasus DeNurem, Archchanceller

Imperial Appointment to the Council of State: Director of Civil Affairs 16th of Owyn’s Flame, 1843 The DeNurem Ministry hereby appoints His Excellency Minuvas Melphestaus to the Directorship of the office of Civil Affairs, effective immediately. The Ministry wishes to extend its gratitude to Her Imperial Highness, Princess Josephine Augusta, for her steadfast service and pivotal expertise as the now former Director of Civil Affairs. The work of Her Imperial Highness shall echo through the ages as a truly monumental era for the branch. We expect the continuation of this great work by the “Imperial Elf” who has served as an understudy for the Princess these last 4 years. Signed and Approved HIS IMPERIAL EXCELLENCY, Drasus DeNurem, Archchanceller

The Grenzi ~ Map of Grenz, 1842 ~ Table of Contents I. History II. Physical Traits III. Cultural Characteristics IV. Language and Names I. History ~ The Battle for Sargoth, led by Hochmeister Gaius Marius, 1328 ~ The Grenzic people find their earliest roots in the realm of Aegis, having formed from the collective populations conquered by the Teutonic Order under the reign of Hochmeister Gaius Marius. The majority of the people brought under the banner of the Order were mostly of varied Northerner descent, or more commonly known today as Highlanders. With the creation of the Realm of Hanseti in the 1340s saw the new cultural identity of Hansetian form. Following the escape from Aegis to Asulon in 1351 as a result of the fall of Iblees, the Hansetians settled in the Southern reaches of the continent as plotted by an early expedition force sanctioned by Hochmeister Samuel Bealcrest. Shielded from the mainland by an extensive and nearly impenetrable mountain range, Hanseti found purchase among the snowy rolling hills, frozen rivers, and rocky coastlines of their Realm. From the spot of their initial settlement in the South grew the capital city of Dresden, and all through the frozen wastes so too did other communities form such as Argos, Sorovitz, and Wachterstadt. Over time, the harsh landscape the Hansetians found themselves in were affectionately regarded as the Motherlands. Upon the ascension of Hochmeister Mirtok DeNurem and the creation of the Duchy of Hanseti under the First Holy Orenien Empire, the local traditions and values that had come to define the Hansetians truly began to take shape. Through necessity and harsh governance of the Teutonic Order all citizens of Hanseti foundselves impressed into service by the Order in some active capacity. As the ambitions of the Empire grew, and the realm continuously rallied to the call of war, Hanseti was awarded a Kingdom. However, the overwhelming influence of the 1st Empire did little to change the natural tendencies of the Hansetian people and throughout this period the old ways of Hanseti persisted. As well, a series of natural disasters that prevented free travel within the realm saw the Hansetian peoples mostly isolated from the outside world. Though when Asulon was stricken with a great flood in the year 1414, the Hansetians under the care of the Teutonic Order and the Empire loaded up onto ships and sailed for the lands of Anthos. Hanseti was landed in the Northern region of the Empire upon arrival in the new world. Yet another imposing mountain range cradled the Kingdom to the North while the South bordered several other communities such as Kralta, Salvus, and Kaedrin. Upon the facade of the mountain, near the great maw that led into the untamed wilds of the Greater North, the legendary Castle Greywynn was carved from stone. However, at this point in the history of the Kingdom, virtually all Hansetians were fully fledged Sariants of the Teutonic Order. As such, no other Hansetian settlements were founded as the entire population lived within the Castle and it’s grounds. This ethno-military state caused a further shift in the Hansetian culture towards an even stronger sense of duty and martial calling that was strongly influenced by the tenants of the Order. ~ The Crow defeats the Cross, 1450 ~ After the Kingdom was toppled several years following the defeat of the Order at the Battle of the Dreadfort, the Hansetian peoples found themselves under uncertain circumstances. The Order itself was forcibly disbanded by the Emperor and their homes dismantled by their old enemies. This caused several contingent groups to form within the population that slowly drifted away and integrated in other regions of the Empire. However, there were some still who maintained their traditions true to old ways formed in the Motherlands of Asulon. For a great number of years, the Hansetian peoples remained scattered within the Empire until the final invasion of the Scourge drove the descendants from Anthos in 1457. When Hochmeister Mirtok DeNurem allegedly resurfaced in Athera after his mysterious disappearance in Anthos, a great number of Hansetians descendants of Sariants from the Teutonic Order rallied to his call to reform the Realm of Hanseti- now separate from the Empire. It was in the Northern most region just before the great dune mesas that the Hansetian city of Snowdrift was settled. In the decades after, the Order established a Highlander commonwealth which brought several subcultures of Humanity into the fold. The Hansetians in typical fashion kept to their own within the main holdings of the Order, donning the tabard of a Sariant or toiling in the fields in service to the Hochmeister. In the year 1472, Hochmeister DeNurem decided to officially retire the Teutonic Order and hand control of the Realm to its civilian population- effectively dismantling the military stratocracy that had come to define the Hansetian peoples. ~ Ale Hansete migrants, 1587 ~ Some continued to live and operate the Realm following the departure of the Order while others chose to assimilate into nearby communities- such as Aesterwald. One such contingent of Hansetians, mostly descendants of past Teutonic Sariants, stuck close to House DeNurem, following the family in its sabbatical through the ages and across multiple voyages to new lands. This arrangement persisted over the next couple centuries with DeNurem nobles lording over a population of Hansetians of their own along the fringes of Human borders. As the other related cohorts of the Hansetians melded and mixed with nearby Human cultures they formed new peoples like the Haeseni; however, these holdovers maintained the olds ways of their Motherland- thus earning them the moniker of Old Hansetians or Ale Hansete in their native tongue of Old Marian. But in the two centuries that passed since the retirement of the Order, even the Ale Hansete could not hold onto every aspect of their ancient traditions. Due to the lack of a stable homeland and an evolving idea of what mattered to the people that followed House DeNurem, a cultural shift began to slowly form through time causing even the Old Hansetians to become distinct from their ancient ancestors. When members of House DeNurem began to migrate into the Holy Oren Empire during the 1740s in Arcas, the Old Hansetians followed suit. Most found safe homes and stable work on an island in the North-Eastern territories of the Empire under the stone shadow of the nearby Curon. Throughout the 9th Nordling war that plagued the Empire during this time, the Old Hansetians were left virtually untouched by the conflicts. Choosing instead to focus on the simplicities of life and to live peacefully with their families. As well, without the guidance of the greater House DeNurem to compel them towards a shared goal, the Old Hansetians chose to occupy themselves with humble work and relatively primitive infrastructure compared to the Petrine cities where most Imperial citizens lived. After aiding in establishing their first settlement in the North-Eastern territories in the year 1743, the then young Alren DeNurem enlisted into the service of the Imperial State Army. Over the next several decades he managed to carve out an impressive military career that resulted in his ascension to Chief of War and Fieldmarschal of the entire Imperial forces. His work proved pivotal in the modernisation of the Empire's primary military organization, as well, his leadership carried the nation through multiple devastating conflicts- later to include the war with the Inferi. In response to Alren DeNurems efforts, Emperor Peter III awarded him the County of Mordskov in 1781- a title once held by a distant relative of Alren a century prior. Though in the midst of the Inferi crisis, the new Count had not found the time to properly settle his county for the people he brought over from his ancestral home. ~ The “Ale Hansete Company” of the ISA battling the Inferi, 1790 ~ As the conflicts of the world grew too great with the invasion of the dreaded Inferi, the Old Hansetians were forced to abandon their isolated lifestyles and join in on the fight. Many enlisted into the ranks of the Imperial State Army, hoping to find protection in the framework of the Empire for their families. Their island village had increasingly experienced strange anomalies as the war raged on, eventually accumulating in it’s destruction as an Inferi detachment attempted to enslave its inhabitants. Luckily, the mighty Eye of Man Imperial fortress constructed over the abandoned city of Avalain provided secure accommodations and ample protection from the apocalypse. It was here the remaining civilian Old Hansetians stayed until the final days of Arcas. For much of the 7th Empire's history, the Highlander population was mostly concentrated under the banner of the Kingdom of Haense. In 1794 the Kingdom was expelled from the union of the Empire following several decades of diplomatic friction and failed obligations on the part of the vassal nation. This expulsion resulted in a dramatic emmigration of the primary Highlander demographics from the Empire, most obviously the Haeseni but also the few sub-cultures that were ethnically similar. However, some of the Haeseni and even some distinct Raevir peoples remained within the Empire, choosing Imperial loyalties instead. Prominent noble families such as the Othamans, Rutherns, and the Carrion-Tuvyics were among those who maintained Imperial allegiances, anchoring with them their associated peoples and ancestral traditions. As well, a curious family of Highlanders by the name of the Vuiller also chose to remain. But as the war with the Inferi dragged on and the stability of the world was thrown into complete chaos following the conclusion of the Inferi war, these Highlanders were left scattered as refugees while the Imperial Government transported countless citizens to the Eye of Man in the last days of Arcas. Upon landfall in the realm of Almaris at the turn of the 19th century, swaths of Imperial lands were given out to the various peers of the Empire. The County of Mordskov was officially settled in the Northern alpine region, atop a mountain bluff that overlooked the Haeseni border. House DeNurem under the direction of Count Alren DeNurem constructed a hardy stone manor in the styles of Old Hanseti from the 15th and 16th centuries. During this early period, the common folk of the Empire were housed in the capital city of Providence as the lands around them were explored, tamed, and settled. When word had reached the Old Hansetians of what House DeNurem had built, a migration into the North began. This initial mass wave of settlers compelled the rest of the isolated Highlanders to follow suit. One such group of people called the Woldzkiy, otherwise known as Old Raevs, joined together in the establishment of the first official settlement outside of Providence, Dobrov. ~ A Logging Village in the Grenz, 1805 ~ The lands to the North of Providence, near the border of the Kingdom of Haense, came to be called The Grenz. The region within the Empire became a gathering place for many Highlander peoples due to its agreeable climate and familiar natural elements. The municipality of Dobrov was also a major attraction as it provided a beacon of Highlander society in an otherwise wild North. Many Old Hansetians settled into the Grenz alongside their Woldzkiy and Haeseni neighbors, building quaint cottages out in the woods or finding residence in the humble village homes of Dobrov. With the reintroduction of a reliable homeland and an emboldened affection towards the Holy Orenien Empire, those who had previously identified as Old Hansetians began to adopt the new identity of Grenzic. For the next 40 years that followed, the ideals and traditions of the people in the Grenz began to blend together, borrowing aspects and elements from the rich and storied histories of each group and various noble families. Barring pockets of distinct subcultures within the region, the peoples in the Grenz began to homogenize with each new generation, forming new traditions and . As a new chapter in the history of the Empire unfolds, the future of the Grenzi- seems optimistic. An ancient lineage of peoples, scattered by hardship spanning across centuries, have once again found community amongst themselves, and a homeland to call their own within the prosperous fold of the Holy Orenien Empire. II. Physical Traits ~ Portrait of Sir Alren DeNurem the White Bull, Count of Mordskov, 1770 ~ Grenzic Nobility and Aristocracy Modern Grenzic nobility is mostly comprised of members of House DeNurem, an ancestrally Old Hansetian noble house hailing from the 1st Empire. However, the members of House DeNurem are distinctly different from a typical Grenzic commoner or aristocrat in that they exclusively have snow white hair and green eyes- a condition that has persisted for six centuries of recorded history. Other noble Grenzic lines include House Darkwood of the Old Hansetian stock, and House Ruthern which hold roots in Haense but have assimilated into the Grenzic culture through the decades. The typical Grenzic aristocrat shares a similar phenotype with their commoner counterparts, being of large physical build. Though they tend to have a lighter brown or even auburn color, with relaxed waves or even straight hair. Though much of the Grenzic culture favors laboriousness, the lifestyle of the aristocracy has given rise to taller skeletal frames and sharper facial features. Most male Grenzic aristocrats are 6 feet tall, peaking at 6 foot 3 inches at the tallest; while females are usually 5 foot 6 inches, 6 feet at the tallest. Grenzic Commoners Grenzic Commoners exhibit many of the stereotypical traits of the classic Highlanders as well as those of the Old Hansetians they descend from. A burly, hardy and resilient people; Fair skinned with darker colored wavy hair, most commonly found with grey or green colored eyes. On very rare occasions, a Grenzic person may have red hair and sparse freckles. Typical Grenzic males are bulky in mass and tall by nature, peaking at around 6 feet; While females do not reach such height, peaking at about 5 feet 7 inches with a similar distribution of mass by comparison. Their physical traits make them very adaptable in cold or winter climates as well as mountainous and tundra regions. III. Cultural Characteristics Common Callings The Grenzi overall have a shared sense of pride in service to the Empire and celebration for hard fought battles. Always seeking a challenge, most enlist in the Imperial State Army in order to curb their overwhelming sense of duty. Their appreciation for warfare and powerful physique make them excellent infantry soldiers, usually specializing in two-handed or other heavy weapons. In addition to a martial calling, the Grenzi have always been pioneers in industrialization, discovering innovations and building machines that replace the need for physical labor whenever possible. These are both traits that harken back to the Old Hansetians and the Teutonic Order. ~ An Old Hansetian panhandler prospecting at Hogspeak, 1807 ~ Many Grenzi alternatively find suitable work as miners, loggers, and farmers; as well skilled work in blacksmithing, engineering, and beast mastery. But all those who devote themselves in service to their community and the Empire are honored by the Grenzic culture, regardless of the work they choose to pursue. Cuisine Grenzic nobles and commoners alike tend to congregate in taverns and feasting halls to engage in merriment and drinking. Their large body mass allows them to handle quite a bit more ale than their Heartlander cousins and comrades in the Empire, but they prefer the taste of mead over a hard drink. They also derive great joy from the tastes of food, with much of their customary dishes being heavily salted savory dishes- high in protein and rich with caloric value to supplement their active and rugged lifestyles. The Grenzi covet meat and fish as their primary source of calories, especially that which is personally hunted or caught. Due to the mountainous terrain of the Grenz, there are many creeks and waterways that flow down towards the river to the South. As well, the great lake that is shared with the nearby Kingdom of Haense. Both sources of water are also bountiful sources of fishes like salmon, trout, and cod which are among the most favored. In addition, because of the climate in The Grenz, starchy potatoes, pulpy pumpkins, and sweet cabbages are also mainstays in Grenzic cuisine. Fashion Due to the cold climate of the Grenz, the Grenzi prefer to wear thicker set clothing which can usually double as protection in a fight. Featuring articles such as fur lined hooded cowls, a heavy gambeson in place of a tunic, long and thick woolen socks, and reinforced leather boots. Even the aristocracy prefer bulkier and warm cloths, choosing to display their status through finely made hats and cloaks or objects of delicate ornamentation like pocket watches, tobacco tins, buttons and buckles made from precious metals. It can be said that the Grenzic do not have a large fixation on the fine clothes that can be found in places like the Imperial Capital. Instead, they choose garbs that are often either very comfortable or possess utilitarian value for their environment. Grenzic folk, both active and veteran military members, often continue to wear their service uniforms as a badge of honor even when no longer on duty or through retirement. Facial hair is very common among the Grenzi, with particular emphasis on large beards and groomed mustaches. Normally only the young or aristocratic are clean shaven, though sporting a mustache with no beard is seen as very fashionable. Disposition ~ Tavern Life in the Grenz, 1832 ~ Most Grenzic people are cheery or jolly by nature and consider it very normal to greet strangers of all sorts. When not in their homes, they can be found gently warming themselves by a roaring fire, talking with neighbors, and enjoying a pint. They have a strong sense of community with those around them and are generally nationalistic towards Oren and the Empire at large. However, the Grenzi are also quite competitive and relish a good fight or to conquer an obstacle. Minor feats of strength, skill, or smarts are incorporated into casual interactions between Grenzi- usually in the form of friendly games. The Grenzi love to celebrate victory and appreciate boasting when it is earned, though cast no shame to those who are bested so long as a valiant effort was offered. Religion Though the Old Hansetians under the Teutonic Order were not particularly religious, the Grenzi find great comfort in the words of Canonism and the veneration of Exalted Godfrey. They also choose Saint Wilfriche of Hanseti, and Saint Joren of Paradisus, and Saint Harald Vuiller of Vuillermoz as their preferred patron saints. A shrine of any can be found in just about every Grenzic home, usually near the hearth or where a family typically spends most of its time. Notable Grenzic People Alren DeNurem: Patriarch of House DeNurem in the 7th Empire. First Count of Mordskov. 3rd Field Marshal of the Imperial State Army. 4th Generalissimo of the Empire. Modernized the Imperial State Army and defended the Empire as General in the 7th & 8th Nordling wars, Chelovek Rebellion, Schyfling War, Merryweather War, and the war with the Inferi. Organized the collective militaries of the descendant races during multiple battles with the Inferi. Grand Cross of the Lion Knights Chapter. Led the progenitor Grenzi- Old Hansetians- into the fold of the Empire in the 18th century. Arranged the settlement of the Old Hansetians into the Grenz at the turn of the following century. Served as the first Governor of Grenz. Drasus DeNurem: Grandson of Alren DeNurem. 7th Archchanceller of the 7th Empire. Pioneered the recognition of the Grenzic people. Advised the Crown in the creation of the Grenzic Country. Served as Home Secretary under the Sarkozic Ministry, helped lay the foundations of Dobrov. Constructed several infrastructure improvements in Grenz which ignited industrialism in the area. Velhrun Darkwood: Patriarch of House Darkwood, first Baron of Darkwood. 5th Field Marshal of the Imperial State Army. Defended the Empire as General during the 8th & 9th Nordling wars, and the Sedanite Rebellion. Knight Commander of the Lion Knights Chapter. Rose from an Old Hansetian commoner to an Imperial peer through martial prowess and leal service to the Crown. Served as Magistrate to Dobrov, helping settle the North frontier. Erik var Ruthern: First Count of Kositz. 6th Field Marshal of the Imperial State Army. Knight of the Lion Knights Chapter. Served as Lord Speaker for the House of Lords in both the 24th and 25th Imperial Diet. Served in the Scyfling Invasion of Hanseti-Ruska, Inferi War, Sedanite Rebellion, and Tenth Nordling War. Maintained allegiance to the Empire for House Ruthern following the expulsion of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska in Arcas. Shared important social and cultural practices with the Old Hansetians that were adopted into the fabric of the Grenzic people. Johan Vuiller: Patriarch of House Vuiller. Son of Saint Harald Vuiller, First Knight-Regent of the Canonist Church, founding member of the All-Saints Holy Order. Led the Palatine states of Vuillermoz and Aquila in Arcas. Fought for the Empire in the 9th and 10th Nordling wars, as well the Sedanite Rebellion. Knight of the Black Sepulcher, Served with the All-Saints and Imperial States Army during the Inferi war. Rescued countless Imperial refugees during the escape from Arcas. Imperial Chaplain and personal advisor to Emperor John VIII and Philip II. Introduced the Old Hansetians to the virtues of Modern Canonism, instilling the patronage of Saints into the common cultural practices of the Grenzi. IV. Language and Names Imperial Common The most commonly used language by humans spawned from countless years of usage and adaptation. Virtually all Grenzi are bi-lingual and in instances where Old Marian does not have a word, Common may be organically inserted and understood. Old Marian has a much harsher and thicker accent than Common which tends to blunt certain Common words with a distinct throaty accent when spoken by an Old Marian speaker. Old Marian The Grenzi speak the language of their forefathers in the original Realm of Hanseti, today referred to as Old Marian. A combination of the ancient Hansetian Language introduced by the founder and first King Gaius Marius and a Nordic dialect brought in by the absorbed northern Aegis peoples during the Teutonic Orders campaign for Human consolidation. Throughout many centuries, the language has maintained true to its original form with newer entries being added to its word stock as needed. Dictionary Traditional Given Names Male: Alaric, Alren, Alwin, Amalrich, Arnand, Bachanz, Bertholdt, Clause, Derek, Dimitri, Doromy, Drako, Eckhard, Eldak, Endris, Erik, Everard, Fenruus, Fredvard, Gaius, Garrig, Garrus, Gertoldt, Godfrik, Godwin, Grun, Gunthen, Haldrik, Halgrim, Hargied, Helmut, Jorgen, Klaude, Kohl, Konrad, Landus, Lukah, Luther, Maur, Mark, Martar, Merrick, Mikell, Mirtok, Nicolaus, Petrovik, Praxedis, Radard, Rainier, Reinhardt, Segari, Siggard, Sigisoro, Sollanz, Svaerd, Tesawa, Ultricht, Vanrik, Vanus, Velhrun, Viador, Viktor, Willholm Female: Adeline, Alexis, Allison, Anna, Belize, Britta, Caroline, Dasha, Dnuiv, Earla, Eis, Eliza, Erika, Eva, Fae, Faina, Fiora, Heidi, Hildrad, Ingrid, Johanna, Jadwig, Kaja, Katrine, Lida, Lotte, Lynn, Malo, Marta, Nadine, Naomi, Nyla, Rae, Reina, Silvia, Sigrid, Sorrow, Sonja, Sprava, Tilla, Titania, Trude, Vatar, Vatra, Vira, Winter, Yvonne, Yennefer, Zose Surname Conventions Grenzic surnames are usually compound words. Through centuries of adoption and utilization of Imperial Common, these surnames had tended to use Common words as opposed to Old Marian ones. However, some families have hybridized their surnames to make them sound more congruent with their mother tongue. Examples of this are: Darkwood, Wyncliff (Windcliff), and Songsteel. It also isn’t uncommon for surnames to be simple words or unique names that hold meaning to the family it belongs to. Grenzic last names also make use of the origin particles of “De” denoting a family's city or regional genesis. The first example of this can be observed through House DeNurem with their family history beginning in the Teutonic city of Nuremberg- of Nurem, DeNurem. Uniquely to Grenzic culture are the stylings of “DeSurname” as opposed to the more common “de Surname” found elsewhere in the Empire. In addition, other particles such as “von” have also been observed among Grenzic nobility, originally introduced in the 15th centurty by the "von Schlictens" of Hanseti and reappropriated through Haeseni and House Ruthern influence via the "var/vas" particle usage. These particles are rarely seen among commoners as they denote legal noble lineage. Surnames employing the “von” particle utilize it to mean “of Surname” or that they are simply from that particular House rather than a location. ~ Culture Questions and Contact ~