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THE PATRIARCHS AND MATRIARCHS OF THE HOUSE OF HOREN AND ALSTION, RIGHTFUL SOVEREIGNS OF THE LANDS OF EX. GODFREY AND AELDIN, EMPERORS OF THE HOLY ORENIAN EMPIRE DRAGONBLOOD OF HOREN Or, A STUDY INTO THE PATRIARCHS OF HOREN AND ALSTION The Penultimate Encyclopaedia BY MAXIM OF THE ATTENLUND AND WILLIAM ALSTION AND JURGEN BARCLAY AS FORMATTED BY THE WORKS OF OTTO THE TARCHARMAN AND THE COMPILATION OF COUNTLESS OTHER AUTHORS --- DEDICATED TO THE PATRIARCH OF ALSTION LEOPOLD JOHN PRINCE OF ALSTION --- TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction II. The Founding III. The Horen Restoration IV. The Year of the Four Emperors V. The Greyspine Rebellion VI. The Adelburg Coup VII. The Dissolution of Horen VIII. Conclusions DEFINITIONS Johannian Horen Alstion Exalted Cadet The House of Alstion is the direct continuation of the House of Horen, descending from Ex. Horen, Ex. Owyn and Ex. Godfrey I, and their eldest successors ever since. In any case, the House of Alstion by that name is regarded to originate from John I, who restored the House of Horen to the Throne of Oren and formed the Fifth Holy Orenian Empire. The title of Alstion is derived from the tradition of bestowing the Imperial Heir of Oren with the Principality of Alstion (beginning with John I), which itself was an ancient title of Horen dynasts, remaining with them even when the last Horen King of Oren, St. Daniel of Al’khazar, went into exile in the North of Aegis. Despite having lost their Imperial titles generations prior, the current House of Alstion, colloquially known as Alstionites, have still maintained their claim to the Holy Orenian Empire. AS HOUSE HOREN, The House of Horen (Flexio: Orenii, Oren translating literally to 'Humanity') is the former ruling family of the Holy Orenian Empire, producing the majority of Oren's monarchs and crowned heads. Their rule persisted off and on for three centuries, from the foundations of the modern state of Oren by King Daniel to the collapse of the Sixth Empire during the Adelburg Coup by the upstart Canonius Pertinax. The House of Horen is one of the most, if not the most, influential aristocratic families in history. The House of Horen claims direct-most pureblooded descent from Exalted Horen, the progenitor of the human race from whom they derive their name, and as a result claims to be the exclusive bloodline which can assert its divine right to rule over an undivided mankind. They ruled over the First Empire as well as the former Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Orenian Empires, and as a result have occupied the throne of humanity for cumulatively longer than any other house, as well as fielding the most kings and emperors of any family. Thought to be extinct within Oren in regards to the main Imperial line with the death of William I, the house experienced a resurgence after the Aeldin-born John Frederick Horen claimed his birthright lost almost a hundred years earlier, taking the crown of man and reforming the Holy Orenian Empire in 1526. This event would be known as the Horen Restoration and established the lineage of the present-day House Alstion. The dynasty survived, albeit in infamy and notable instability, for the next hundred years - splitting into many cadet branches through its reign. The line of John the Restorer, commonly known as the Johannian line, fell from power in the Coup of Adelburg. AS HOUSE ALSTION, Though the Pertinaxi usurped the Johannians of their Imperial Rule, Charles Elliot eventually reconciled with his counterpart, Emperor Aurelius, as Imperial Archchancellor, ensuring the continuation of the House. In reward for the continued service of Alstion, Charles’ son Alexander was afforded the Duchy of Furnestock, and further entrenched the political influence of the family as the driving force for the establishment of the first Orenian Parliament. On the eve of Godfrey II’s edict declaring the dissolution of House Horen in 1720, the dynasty had expanded to encompass several distinct branches. Bloated, tired from war, and mourning the spilt blood in the War of Two Emperors, the patriarchs of each offshoot acquiesced and four mutually independent Houses were formed. House Alstion was left the sole survivor of the Johannian inheritance by the dissolution, being granted suzerainty over its cadet houses of Marna, Anpalais, Rothesay, Pruvia, Joannes, Wett, Balain, and Beaufort. Those born out of wedlock are commonly referred to as Jrent. The Alstionite Cause saw a brief resurgence in 1725 as Charles Edward made a bid for the Imperial Throne of Oren, ruling the Capital of Helena uncrowned for a month. However, some promises made were never fulfilled, and Charles instead abdicated his efforts to his uncle, Alexander de Joannes, who would become an emperor proper. Disillusioned by the Orenian Ideal, Charles pledged his services elsewhere, compounding the House of Alstion further into obscurity. House Alstion formally departed the Orenian Empire when Henry Alstion was killed by Imperial State Troopers in his efforts to save Robert Helvets in Providence. His son, James, fled the Empire and settled down with a small band of Daelish attendants in some ruins later called Alba. Upon his deathbed, he granted the Duchy of Corazon to Olivier de Savoie, who would later become the Serene Prince of Savoy. James’ sons, Leopold John and William Corwin formally reunited the Alstion family once again, though they remained dormant within the Principality of Savoy. William went on to become the Chancellor of Savoy, while Leopold remained within cloisters in lay-servitude to the Church of Canon - later emerging as the Prince of Alstion, and asserting his claim to the Holy Orenian Empire. Titles: Holy Orenian Emperor (previously held by John VI) Emperor of Aeldin (previously held by Owyn I) King of Renatus (previously held by John VI) King of Seventis (previously held by John VI) King of Oren (previously held by John VI) King of Salvus (previously held by John VI) King of Savoy (previously held by John VI) King of Hanseti (previously held by John II) King of Ruska (previously held by John II) King of Kaedrin (previously held by John VI) King of Vandoria (previously held by John VI) King of The Westerlands (previously held by John VI) King of Mardon (previously held by John VI) King of Marna (previously held by John VI) Prince of Alstion (currently held by Charles Leopold Alstion) Duke of Alba (previous held by Henry Stephen Alstion) Duke of Belamena (previously held by Henry Stephen Alstion) Duke of Marna (previously held by John VI) Duke of Mardon (previously held by John VI) Duke of Furnestock (previously held by Henry Stephen Alstion) Duke of Krajia (previously held by John VI) Duke of Corazon (previously held by James Francis Alstion) Duke of Erochland (previously held by John VI) Duke of Istria (previously held by John VI) Duke of Crownlands (previously held by John VI) Duke of Cascadia (previously held by John VI) Duke of Avar (previously held by John VI) Duke of Adria (previously held by John VI) Duke of Kingston (previously held by John VI) Duke of Frederica (previously held by John VI) Count of Ager (previously held by John VI) Count of Aldersburg (previously held by John VI) Count of Felsen (previously held by John VI) Count of Thesmer (previously held by John VI) Count of Johannesburg (previously held by John VI) Count of Alamar (previously held by John VI) Count of Cantal (previously held by John VI) Count of Enswerp (previously held by Henry Stephen Alstion) Count of Yves (currently held by Leopold John Alstion) Lord of Jrent (previously held by John VI) Lord of Alba (currently held by William Corwin Alstion) Lord Vandalore (previously held by John Leopold Horen) --- Pre-Asulon lineage: THE FIRST COUPLING I. Exalted Horen, Progenitor and Prophet of Virtue II. Saint Godwin of Aaun III. Exalted Owyn, Prophet of Spirit IV. Argol of Aaun V. Ceneu I, King of Aaun VI. Henric I ‘Hardsword’, King of Aaun VII. Horen II, King of Aaun VIII. Rhodri I, King of Aaun IX. Cawdel I, King of Aaun X. Griffith I, King of Aaun XI. Edelren I, King of Aaun XII. Edelren II, King of Aaun XIII. Cal I ‘the Reclaimer’, King of Aaun XIV. Cal II, King of Aaun XV. Gwedred I, King of Aaun XVI. Lothar I, King of Aaun XVII. Horen III ‘the Old’, King of Aaun XVIII. Henry ‘the Elder’ XIX. Henry ‘the Hairy’ XX. Henry ‘the Denied’ XXI. Edmund I, King of Mzen XXII. Joren Horen XXIII. Stephen I, King of Aaun XXIV. Godwin I, King of Aaun XXV. Edmund ‘Eventide’ of Jrent XXVI. Henry Horen XXVII. Owyn Horen XXVIII. William of Jrent XXIX. Edgar of Jrent XXX. Saint Daniel of Al’khazar XXXI. Richard Horen XXXII. Edgar Horen XXXIII. Exalted Godfrey, First Holy Orenian Emperor and Prophet of Gospel Patriarchs of Horen: XXXIV - Horen V, Holy Orenian Emperor XXXV - Bl. William I, Holy Orenian Emperor XXXVI - John-Henry, Duke of Marna XXXVII - Bl. Charles-Henry, The Polycarp XXXVIII - John I, Holy Orenian Emperor XXXIX - Bl. John II, Holy Orenian Emperor XL - John III, Holy Orenian Emperor XLI - John IV, Holy Orenian Emperor XLII - Robert II, Holy Orenian Emperor XLIII - Philip I, Holy Orenian Emperor XLIV - John V, Holy Orenian Emperor XLV - Peter II, Holy Orenian Emperor XLVI - John VI, Holy Orenian Emperor Patriarchs of Alstion: XLVII - Charles-Elliot, Prince of Alstion XLVIII - St. Alexander-Frederick, Duke of Furnestock XLIX - Amelia-Philippa, Princess of Alstion L - John-Alexander, Prince of Alstion LI - Charles-Edward, Prince of Alstion LII - Henrietta-Karenina, Princess of Alstion LIII- Henry-Stephen, Prince of Alstion LIV - James-Francis, Prince of Alstion LV - Leopold-John, Prince of Alstion Cadet Houses: The House of Marna The House de Joannes The House of Pruvia The House of Anpalais The House of Rothesay The House of Cantal The House of Vimmark The House of Varoche The House of Savin The House of Beaufort (Extinct) The House of Krinford (Extinct) The House of Balain (Extinct) The House of Wett (Extinct) THE FOUNDING ESTABLISHING THE FIRST HOLY ORENIAN EMPIRE I HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR EXALTED Godfrey I Reign: 1379-1414 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Godfrey_I,_Exalted_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Sultan Exalted Godfrey, Founder of the First Orenian Empire Chancellor: Reynard Lycian Spouse(s): Atriana Tarus, Rose Amedius Issue(s): Horen I, Prince Henry, Prince William, Prince Pertinax, Princess Sophia The Kingdom of Renatus, in Asulon, was suffering from a great deal of corruption, ineptitude, and greed, when Godfrey Horen first arrived in it. Invited to the Kingdom in the wake of Eze’kiel Tarus’ abdication without heir, and with foreign armies looming at the gates, he was immediately handed the crown by Regent Reynard Lycian. The newly crowned King Godfrey gave Reynard Lycian the stewardship of the nation for his service. Godfrey's first act as King was to divide up the land of Renatus between noble families, creating a feudal system. This created an increase in military efficiency, as Renatus had plenty of land, but no men. Noble families had bannermen, but no land to settle them on - it was a compromise that ultimately succeeded. King Godfrey also dissolved the Ashen Council which had aided Reynard in his rule of Renatus. Godfrey then began his campaign to unite the human race. First he made war with Salvus, with the help of St. Lorethos Basileus and his Twilight Army, as well as many allies from other races. It’s said that the walls of Solace, its capital, miraculously fell before their armies. With the slaying of the Witch Queen Dawn Perea, Salvus fell under Godfrey’s rule. Not long thereafter came the Great Plague of Seventis, which decimated the population of the Kingdom of Seventis, allowing these lands to pass peacefully into Godfrey’s rule in return for economic aid and military protection. These new lands of his, he granted to August Flay, a former bandit-warlord turned loyal hound of the King, as his fief. August was swift to return the favour, his numerous raids against the Realm of Hanseti, long a foe and arch-rival of Renatus, forcing the country to submit to Godfrey in return for peace. With this, all the scattered human nations were brought together for the first time since the fall of the Kingdom of Oren. And so, on the 21th of Grand Harvest, 1379, Godfrey was proclaimed the first Holy Orenian Emperor, ruler of all of Mankind. He established his imperial seat first in the city of Arethor, which was erstwhile the capital of Renatus, and later in Anthos he reigned from Abresi. He adopted a harsh policy of no tolerance towards any other human nations. Any human settlement that tried to split away from Oren was immediately taken over, and in some cases, such as Khabbi, destroyed utterly. His rule began the absolutist command most Orenian Emperors demanded. In Anthos, Godfrey began to expand the Empire to include more than just humanity, forcing back the border with the Princedom of Malinor and taking much land from them. This new land along the border became known as the Westerlands. Godfrey granted these conquests to Peter Chivay and the Order of the White Rose to rule as the newly established Kingdom of Kaedrin. In 1414, the Emperor finally succumbed to old age. He gave a farewell speech on his balcony to the people of the Empire before retiring into his chamber, never to be seen again. II HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR Horen I Horen Reign: 1414-1420 @Sultan ‘the Black’ Spouse(s): Ari Hightower Issue(s): Owyn I Emperor of Aeldin, Prince John, William I, Prince Adrian, Duke Augustus Although his name and regnal title may be deceptive, there are no parallels to be drawn between Emperor Horen I and our ancient progenitor, Exalted Horen. Widely regarded as a sadist, his thirst for blood was only outmatched by his thirst for conquest. It is because of this that Horen I led the Great Exodus, in which the majority population of the Orenian Empire departed from Anthos in search for a fabled land that would eventually be discovered as Aeldin. Although their invasion would prove successful, at least for a time, he never lived to see it, having died en route upon his flagship, HMS Godfrey, from an unknown sickness. III HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR Bl. William I Horen Reign: 1420-1426 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=William_I,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Will (TauFirewarrior) ‘the Weak’ Spouse(s): Unwed Issue(s): Lothar Jrent (Illegitimate) William I of the House of Horen (11th of the Amber Cold, 1402 – 13th of the Deep Cold, 1459), called the Weak, was Holy Orenian Emperor from 1420 until his forced dissolution of the Imperial Crown in 1426, from which time he was briefly King of Oren until his forced abdication to his cousin and rival, Silus. He holds the distinction of being the last emperor from the Horen dynasty until the accession of John I to the throne in 1526. His inauspicious rule was shaped by war, turmoil and political collapse. Inheriting the throne from his father, Horen I, after the Exodus of 1420, which had resulted in over three-quarters of the Imperial population embarking upon the maritime journey to Aeldin in hopes of conquering it, William was left totally unprepared, surrounded by enemies, and sickly. In early 1407 he became bedridden, and named Owyn I his regent. The dwarves of the Grand Kingdom of Urguan took advantage of the Empire's sporadic weakness and invaded from the distant south, and in the chaos of the incursion several vassal states betrayed their emperor, conspiring alternately for their independence or survival, ending with the singing of The Edict of Three Kingdoms. Popularly regarded as weak-willed, many historians traditionally attribute to him the blame for the First Empire's destruction. This has resulted in a relatively negative reputation within popular culture. Despite this, modern historians interpret William's reign through a different lens, contending that none could have succeeded in the unfortunate situation he inherited, and as a third son he was never adequately prepared for governance. With the Horen Restoration, it is now more commonly argued that his personal attributes, including his geniality and perseverance, greatly outweighed his faults, and that his circumstances were completely beyond his personal control. Consequently, William's reputation has been mostly posthumously rehabilitated. Even so, his monarchic epithet of 'the Weak' has proven impossible to shake in the minds of the educated and uneducated alike. He died of consumption in the midst of the Third Empire, where he had been provided the means to live a comfortable life in internal exile by the Chivay emperor, Peter I. IV DUKE OF MARNA John Horen John Henry | Iohannes Henricus @The Lion NO PORTRAIT FOUND John Henry was born the eldest son of Emperor Horen I but quickly distanced himself from his birthright, choosing to live a life by the blade over the glory and pampering accustomed to the Imperial Heir. He was a renowned duelist and knight of the empire before the infamous Exodus where he chose to leave with his father and the majority of the realm, allowing his brother William to inherit. His cause of death is unknown, thought to have perished in Aeldin. Spouse(s): Sigmunda ‘the Fair’ Carrion Issue(s): Charles ‘the Polycarp’ THE HOREN RESTORATION AND THE FIFTH EMPIRE The Horen Restoration in 1526 saw the House Horen returned to its imperial throne following the assassination of King Guy de Bar. The Restoration is commonly thought to have been orchestrated by the self-exiled father of John I, Charles Henry Horen. The newly reestablished Empire was not without its flaws, many of which directly contributed to its collapse seventy years later, but it is overwhelmingly regarded as the zenith of human might and prosperity, and the epitome of Johannianism. V THE OLD PRETENDER Bl. Charles Henry Horen https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Charles_Henry_Horen @Cracker ‘the Polycarp’ Charles Henry Horen, known alternately by the names of the Old Pretender and Brother Polycarp, his monastic epithet, was the father of John I and husband of Clara de Sola. He is most well known for his leading part in the Horen Restoration. The son of Prince John of Marna (the rightful heir to the Aeldinic Empire) and therefore the grandson of Horen I, Holy Orenian Emperor, for the better part of his life Charles Henry was the Horen dynasty's most ambitious and notable claimant, notoriously making several unsuccessful attempts to seize the thrones of Oren and the Aeldinic Empire. After the birth of his son, his efforts would eventually result in his exile to the court of King Andrew of Oren in the last years of the 15th century, where the prickly king forced him into a monastery under the name 'Polycarp' so as to nullify his claim. He would never actually achieve a throne for himself, though his plotting against the incumbent Savoyard dynasty of Guy de Bar would see his son take the throne and restore the Holy Orenian Empire. VI HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR John I Horen John Frederick | Iohannes Fredericus Reign: 1526 - 1547 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=John_I,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Esterlen ‘the Relentless’ Archchancellor(s): Lord Bracchus, Duke Leone, Archduke Lorraine Spouse(s): Adelheid of Istria Issue(s): John II, Duke Alexander, John I of Vandoria (Illegitimate), Princess Philippa, High Pontiff Daniel III, Princess Charlotte, Princess Eleanor, Princess Catherine John Frederick, also known as John I, called the Relentless, of the House of Horen, was the first Holy Orenian Emperor of the restored Fifth Empire from 1526 until his death. A scion of the Horen dynasty, his accession to the crown of Oren with the signing of the Treaty of Metz during the Horen Restoration returned the line of Exalted Godfrey to the throne and restored the Holy Orenian Empire which had been dissolved with the deposition of Alexander I almost half a century earlier in 1482. John’s rule was shaped by several key factors: the bloody Eighteen Years' War (the fourth such global conflict between the dwarven states and the human empire at the time), internal religious and political turmoil as a lasting legacy of the Dukes' War, and a return to the Imperial doctrine of enlightened absolutism espoused by his distant ancestor, Godfrey I. After a string of humiliating defeats to the Urguanites originating from the withdrawal of Savoyard support on account of the Taxman's Conspiracy, the Emperor was forced to de-escalate the war. Refusing to make peace, he was killed in rout, the Eighteen Years' War being ended months afterwards by his son, John II. His Imperial Majesty, John I Frederick of the House of Horen, by the Grace of GOD, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Savoy, Kaedrin, Haense, Renatus and Salvus, Defender of the Faith, Duke of the Crownlands, Carimea, Erochland, Kingston and Leone, Margrave of Greater Kreden, Count of Felsen, Louvain, Beauclair, Wett and Metz, Sovereign of Humanity and Protector of the Elves, etcetera. VII HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR Bl. John II Horen John Sigismund | Iohannes Sigismundus Reign: 1547 - 1568 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=John_II,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Cracker ‘the Quarreler’ Archchancellor(s): Duke Leone, Prince Beaufort Spouse(s): Amelie of Courland, Arielle of Leone Issue(s): Jakob Jrent (Illegitimate), Pamsie Jrent (Illegitimate), Margaret Wett (Illegitimate), John III, Duke Alexander, Princess Madeleine, Duke Joseph, Princess Alexandra, Princess Eleanore John Sigismund, also known as John II, called the Quarreler of the House of Horen, was the second Holy Orenian Emperor of the restored Fifth Empire from the death of his father, John I, in 1547, until his own abdication in 1568. He was his father's first son by his much maligned empress-consort, Adelheid of Istria. He was succeeded upon his declaration of abdication by his own firstborn son, the then Prince of Alstion, John III. The entirety of John Sigismund's reign was marked by his unstable mental state and the rumbling chaos which the Eighteen Years' War had created. This period is called the Anarchy and ends at John’s abdication to his son, as John III. His Imperial Majesty, John II Sigismund of the House of Horen, by the Grace of GOD, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Savoy, Kaedrin, Haense, Renatus and Salvus, Defender of the Faith, Duke of the Crownlands, Carimea, Erochland, Kingston and Leone, Margrave of Greater Kreden, Count of Felsen, Louvain, Beauclair, Wett and Metz, Sovereign of Humanity and Protector of the Elves, etcetera. VII HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR John III Horen John Owyn | Iohannes Ovenius Reign: 1568 - 1585 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=John_III,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @cruzazul ‘the Lion’ Archchancellor(s): Prince Beaufort, Baron Senntisten Spouse(s): Julia of Furnestock Issue(s): John IV, Robert II, Philip I, Queen Charlotte John Owyn, also known as John III, called the Lion of the House of Horen, was the third Holy Orenian Emperor of the restored Fifth Empire since the abdication of his father, John II, in 1568. Under his reign, he remarkably finished a majority of the conquests of his grandsire, bringing both the human rebels and orcs to heel in the War of Orcish Submission and led a reign of subsequent peace. The Northern Question was finally answered during his reign, as the House of Barbanov would be granted their royal titulage, creating a Realm for All Highlanders within the Orenian Empire, known as the Kingdom of Haense. His untimely assassination by a plot orchestrated by his eldest son, however, would cause a great rift within the Empire and see all three of his sons upon the Imperial Throne in the Year of Four Emperors. He is commonly known as the Lion for his skill in both warfare and in the diplomatic table, heralded as one of the greater Johannian emperors since John I. His Imperial Majesty, John III Owyn of the House of Horen, by the Grace of GOD, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Savoy, Kaedrin, Renatus and Salvus, Defender of the Faith, Duke of the Crownlands, Avar, Frederica, Krajia and Cascadia, Margrave of Greater Kreden, Count of Johannesburg, Louvain, Beauclair, Wett and Estavar, Sovereign of Humanity and Suzerain of the Elves, and Protector of the Dominion of Malin, etcetera. THE YEAR OF THE FOUR EMPERORS AND THE SUBSEQUENT ORENIAN COLLAPSE Emperor John III had ascended to the Imperial Throne in 1568, after briefly serving as Prince-Regent for his father before his abdication. Like his grandfather, John I, Emperor John III had a policy for rapid expansionism and militarism, seeing to the end of the remaining Dunamic and Rurikid rebels and the total subjugation of the War Uzg. Cherished as a national hero but despised by many foreign lords and dignitaries, Emperor John III had succeeded where his grandfather failed against the human rebels at the humiliating defeat at the Siege of Dunland during the Eighteen Years' War. As part of Emperor John III's policy of human unity, he had attempted to organise a betrothal between his youngest Philip Frederick and the Hansetian Princess Tatiana of Haense, sister to Andrew II of Haense, the ruler of one of the Empire's largest vassal states. However, when the courtship between the two failed and Andrew II instead had her marry the noble Marquis Brandon of Vasiland, a new match was quickly set up between John Augustus and the sister of Princess Tatiana, Princess Julia. During the betrothal, John Augustus had repeatedly made numerous unsavoury comments about both princesses to his men and in court, earning a chief rivalry with King Andrew II of Haense despite the Emperor's best attempts in solving the situation. John III would be assassinated by High Elven nationalists on the 18th of the Sun’s Smile, 1585, leaving his adolescent son, John IV to inherit his father’s titles. However, on the 16th of the Deep Cold of the same year, the young John was assassinated as well, this time by the King of Haense personally, during a meeting between the two. John IV’s younger brother, Robert II, subsequently inherited the crisis, and attempted to mediate a peaceful conclusion to the nascent rebellion in Haense, but instead abdicated as the obstinate Andrik refused, living out a life as a monk. The coming of Philip I to the Imperial Throne concluded the unrest in the Empire, as his actions saw to peace within Haense, and the execution of its rogue King. VIII HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR John IV Horen John Augustus | Iohannes Augustus Reign: 1585 - 1585 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=John_IV,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Stevie ‘the Young’ Archchancellor(s): Baron Senntisten Spouse(s): Unwed Issue(s): Null John Augustus, known as John IV of the House of Horen, briefly reigned as Holy Orenian Emperor during the Year of Four Emperors which saw him reigning for a short two months before his assassination by his own feudal vassal, King Andrew II of Hanseti-Ruska. For his short time holding the throne, he is known as the Young. His Imperial Majesty, John IV Augustus of the House of Horen, by the Grace of GOD, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Savoy, Kaedrin, Renatus and Salvus, Defender of the Faith, Duke of the Crownlands, Avar, Frederica, Krajia and Cascadia, Margrave of Greater Kreden, Count of Johannesburg, Louvain, Beauclair, Wett and Estavar, Sovereign of Humanity and Suzerain of the Elves, and Protector of the Dominion of Malin, etcetera. IX HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR Robert II Horen Robert Henry | Robertus Henricus Reign: 1585 - 1585 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Robert_II,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Sultan ‘the Monk’ Archchancellor(s): Baron Senntisten Spouse(s): Unwed Issue(s): Null Robert Henry, briefly known as Robert II of the House of Horen, was the fifth Holy Orenian Emperor of the Fifth Empire, most notable for his attempted parlay with King Andrew II of Haense before his abdication as the third Emperor in the Year of Four Emperors. Originally brought up to take the vocation of the cloth, he is known as the Monk for surrendering the throne to his younger brother and retreating into the cloisters. His Imperial Majesty, Robert II Henry of the House of Horen, by the Grace of GOD, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Savoy, Kaedrin, Renatus and Salvus, Defender of the Faith, Duke of the Crownlands, Avar, Frederica, Krajia and Cascadia, Margrave of Greater Kreden, Count of Johannesburg, Louvain, Beauclair, Wett and Estavar, Sovereign of Humanity and Suzerain of the Elves, and Protector of the Dominion of Malin, etcetera. X HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR Philip I Horen Philip Frederick | Philippus Fridericus Reign: 1585 - 1595 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Philip_I,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Thatpyrodude ‘the Arrogant’ Archchancellor(s): Baron Senntisten, Lord Ironsword Spouse(s): Adeline of Savoy Issue(s): John V, Queen Augusta, Peter II, Prince Philip Philip Frederick, known as Philip I, called the Arrogant of the House of Horen, was the sixth and final Holy Orenian Emperor of the Fifth Empire. He was the third born son of John III to his wife Julia of Furnestock, and came to the throne at the age of fourteen. He was also the fourth and final emperor who came to the throne during the crisis known as the Year of Four Emperors. Although he skillfully handled the crisis he inherited at the start of his reign, putting a swift end to the Haeseni Rebellion, his reign was ultimately responsible for the utter destruction of the Imperial Capital of Johannesburg, as well as the collapse of the Fifth Empire, through the Axionite Coalition War. His Imperial Majesty, Philip I Frederick of the House of Horen, by the Grace of GOD, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Savoy, Kaedrin, Renatus and Salvus, Defender of the Faith, Duke of the Crownlands, Avar, Frederica, Krajia and Cascadia, Margrave of Greater Kreden, Count of Johannesburg, Louvain, Beauclair, Wett and Estavar, Sovereign of Humanity and Suzerain of the Elves, and Protector of the Dominion of Malin, etcetera. THE GREYSPINE REBELLION AND THE SUBSEQUENT COURLANDIC COLLAPSE AND RESTORATION OF THE SIXTH ORENIAN EMPIRE After the death of Emperor Philip and the destruction of Johannesburg, the Empire ceased to be for a period of almost 20 years. Its vassals of Haense, the Westerlands and Mardon were spared by the war at first, but Courlandic armies and the hordes of Mordring soon saw the first two of those obliterated. Only the Duchy of Mardon remained out of those vassals that had remained loyal to the Empire until its fall, and there seemed to be no hope of a reformation of Oren. This all changed with the Greyspine Rebellion, and the Haeseni victory at the Second Battle of the Rothswood which saw the disintegration of Courlandic authority upon the Axionite Isle of Tahn. What came after led to the reformation of the Kingdom of Haense and the creation of a power vacuum, in which every Orenian successor state sought to seize as much of the old imperial territories as it could. Chief among these rising powers was the Duchy of Mardon (where the Haeseni government-in-exile had based itself before the rebellion), which rapidly transitioned to a Kingdom, vassalized the Kingdom of Lotharingia, and swept over Tahn as John V declared the formation of the Sixth Orenian Empire. The resurgent Kingdom of Haense swore fealty as well, but the Sixth Empire would never reclaim the lost glory of their predecessor, mired by ineffective leadership and internal squabbling. XI HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR John V Horen John Frederick | Iohannes Fredericus Reign: 1614 - 1619 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=John_V,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Eddywilson2 ‘Lackland’ Archchancellor(s): Null Spouse(s): Claude of Lotharingia Issue(s): Prince John John Frederick, also known as John V and John Lackland, of the House of Horen, was the first Holy Orenian Emperor of the Sixth Empire from the 14th of the Grand Harvest, 1614 until his death in 1619. He was his father’s firstborn son by way of his empress-consort Adelina Augusta of Savoie, sister to the Duke Jon Renault. Upon his death at the Siege of Trier he was succeeded briefly by his uncle, Robert of Marna, as Lord Protector and thereafter by his younger brother, Peter II. HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, John V Frederick of the House of Horen, by the Grace of God, Holy Orenian Emperor, Forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Renatus, Salvus, Seventis, Vandoria, Savoy, Aesterwald, and Telemar, Defender of the Faith, Supreme Protector of Mankind, Prince of Alstion, Duke of the Crownlands, Cascadia, Avar, Count of Johannesburg Alamar, Thesmer, and Thelen, and Sovereign of Humanity. XII HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR Peter II Horen Peter Sigismund | Johannes Sigimundus Reign: 1619 - 1636 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Peter_II,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @Tsuyose ‘the Troubadour’ Archchancellor(s): Ser Aeternius, Ser Grey Spouse(s): Elizabeth of Alba Issue(s): John VI, Prince John, Princess Elizabeth, Princess Margaret, Prince Charles Peter Sigismund, also known as Peter II, called the Troubadour of the House of Horen, was the second Holy Orenian Emperor of the Sixth Empire from the deposition of his uncle - the self-proclaimed Lord Protector Robert of Marna - in 1619 until his disappearance and presumed death in 1636. He was Philip I’s second son by his undemonstrative empress-consort, Adelina Augusta of Savoie, sister to the Duke Jon Renault. Upon his abdication in 1636, he was succeeded by his own firstborn son, John VI. HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Peter II Sigismund of the House of Horen, by the Grace of God, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, Forever August, Apostolic King of Oren, Renatus, Salvus, Seventis, Vandoria, Savoy, Mardon, and the Westerlands, Duke of the Crownlands, Cascadia, Avar, Frederica, Blackmarsh, and Marna, Count of Adelburg, Alamar, Frederica, Krajia, Thesmer, Thelen, Auguston, and Cantal, Baron of Darkwood and Gravelhold, Defender of the Canonist Faith, Supreme Protector of Mankind, Master of the Lions of Man, etcetera. XIII HOLY ORENIAN EMPEROR John VI Horen John Maximillian | Iohannes Maximilianus Reign: 1636 - 1638 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=John_VI,_Holy_Orenian_Emperor @seannie ‘the Unfortunate’ Archchancellor(s): Ser Grey, Frederick of Marna Spouse(s): Unwed Issue(s): Null John Maximilian, also known as John VI, was the successor of Peter II. He was the third Horen ruler of the Sixth Empire, taking the throne at the tender age of nine due to his father's abdication. He lost the throne a mere two years later during the Coup of Adelburg which was led by Aurelius I Horen, Arpad Ivanovich and Leitseig Romstun, with the assistance of the Reiters. During the coup, the young John was slain in a bloody exchange that took place in the throne room, resulting in his beheading along with the rest of the Imperial retinue within the throne room. HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, John VI Maximillian of the House of Horen, by the Grace of God, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, Forever August, Apostolic King of Oren, Renatus, Salvus, Seventis, Vandoria, Savoy, Mardon, and the Westerlands, Duke of the Crownlands, Cascadia, Avar, Frederica, Blackmarsh, and Marna, Count of Adelburg, Alamar, Frederica, Krajia, Thesmer, Thelen, Auguston, and Cantal, Baron of Darkwood and Gravelhold, Defender of the Canonist Faith, Supreme Protector of Mankind, Master of the Lions of Man, etcetera. THE ADELBURG COUP AND THE SUBSEQUENT ORENIAN COLLAPSE Following the defeat at the Siege of Vasiland and the conclusion of the War of Beards, discontent and dissent found itself brewing within the Imperial Court of Adelburg. A claimant of the Horen-Marna line, Frederick, urged the Regency of John VI to abdicate the throne and allow him to step into power, causing a chain-reaction of even more claimants to publicise themselves. Chief of these was Canonius Pertinax, an obscure descendant of Pertinax Horen, who, along with Ser Leitsieg and Arpad Ivanovich, entered the throne room. They urged the Court of John VI to accept their aid in the defensive war against the Kingdom of Norland, in favour of being enthroned as payment later on. Following the refusal of such, discourse broke out among the Court and it was then that Canonius outright declared himself Emperor. The few hundred troops he'd brought with him stormed into the palace, fighting off John VI’s Nauzica Brigade and City Watch. Ultimately, Canonius was able to win in the end, and in his bloodlust, the Pertinax had beheaded the thirteen year old Emperor. The Coup had succeeded, and the Imperial Capital fell into the control of the Renatian rebellion. The Holy Orenian Empire subsequently broke apart into the Kingdoms of Renatus, Marna, and Haense. Thus ended the line of Johannian Emperors and the commencement of the Princely line of Alstion. XIV PRINCE OF ALSTION Charles Horen John Elliot Horen 22 Godfrey's Triumph, 1633 13 Harren's Folly, 1721 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Prince_Charles_of_Alstion @dewpah ‘the Sly’ Spouse(s): Aloisia Seia Issue(s): St. Alexander, Princess Amelia, Count Thomas, Count Jamie, Prince William, Elias of Carrow (Illegitimate), Anne of Aldenburg (Illegitimate) Charles Elliot was the last born son of Peter II, from whom he inherited the hereditary Johannian title, the Prince of Alstion. His accession to the princely title came following the Coup of Adelburg and the formation of the Crown of Renatus-Marna, as the Horenic dynasty found a new patriarch in the Emperor Aurelius. Charles was the Archchancellor to Renatus-Marna, a statesman, and a military commander. XV SAINT ALEXANDER Alexander Horen Alexander Frederick Horen 17th of Horen's Calling, 1654 14th of Owyn's Light, 1754 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Alexander_Frederick @Caranthir_ ‘the Charitable’ Spouse(s): Analiese of Bihar, Ailsa Gromach, Cesarina of Marna, Mariya of Haense, Katherine of Louvain, Reyne de Rennes Issue(s): Prince Alexander, Joanna Jrent (Illegitimate), Anthony Jrent (Illegitimate), Duke Adrian, Alexander II, Prince Francis, Prince Robert Alexander Frederick, also known as Saint Alexander, was a Prince of the Empire of Man, the Duke of Furnestock, a theologian, philosopher, and the bishop of Cyrilsburg and Morsgrad. He was the firstborn son of Prince Charles and Aloisa Horen-Cantal and is generally regarded as one of the pre-eminent figures of the Church in his day. Alexander is recognised as a Saint of the Canonist Church. He is the Patron of Ponce and the Sedani. He is the patron saint of lovers, Imperials, the poor, and a number of representative institutions. Generally, he is seen as a father of the Petrine Imperial Diet, and regarded positively as a figure of humility. THE DISSOLUTION OF HOUSE HOREN AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF HOUSE ALSTION XVI PRINCESS OF ALSTION Amelia Alstion Amelia Philippa Horen-Alstion 2nd of the Sun's Smile, 1674 Unknown https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Princess_Amelia_of_Alstion @Trinn ‘the Fair’ Princess Amelia Philippa of Alstion, Duchess of Alba, was a leading female figure in the Empire of Man during the 17th century. She was born an Imperial Princess from the line of John and married Prince Cassius Horen in her late adolescence. The Aeldin-born Horen was intent on polishing her wit and etiquette, such drive prompting her tenure as the Imperial Keeper of the Privy Seal. XVII PRINCE OF ALSTION John Alstion John Alexander Horen-Alstion 13th of Horen's Calling, 1688 1st of Sigismund's End, 1749 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=John_Alexander,_Prince_of_Alstion @_Stigwig ‘the Cunning’ John Alexander, nicknamed the Cunning, was the only son of Alexander Frederick and the murdered Analiese Barbanov. He inherited the hereditary Johannian title of the Prince of Alstion as heir to the line, along with the Duchies of Alba and Furnestock. Spending his formative years in the care of a monastery, he returned to prominence only at the very end of Emperor Antonius's reign when his return coincided with the Emperor's removal from power and the start of the War of Two Emperors. Although not an especially famed commander his logistical leadership was responsible for the organisation of the campaign against Haense - a title which he coveted - and the movement of supplies which underpinned victories like the Battle of the Silversea. XVIII THE IMPERIAL CLAIMANT Charles Alstion Charles Edward Horen-Alstion Reign: 1725 - 1725 (Uncrowned) https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Charles_Edward,_Prince_of_Alstion @LithiumSedai ‘the Diligent’ Charles Edward was the son of John Alexander and Vivienne d'Amaury and the third Emperor of the Eighth Empire. He inherited the hereditary Johannian title of the Prince of Alstion as heir to the line, along with the Duchies of Alba, Balamena, and Corazon, the former in which he issued to his sister. Spending his formative years in the care of his grandfather, Alexander Frederick, he returned to prominence only at the very end of John VII's reign when he briefly served as his successor before settling his claim to the Imperial throne for the titular Johannian Principality of Alstion. HIS IMPERIAL AND ROYAL MAJESTY, Charles I Edward of the House of Alstion, by the Grace of God, Holy Orenian Emperor and rightful Emperor of Aeldin, Forever August, Apostolic King in Oren, of Marna, Mardon, Salvus, Seventis, Savoy, Vandoria, Aesterwald, Courland, Santegia and the Westerlands, Duke of the Crownlands and Blackmarsh, Count of Helena, Johannesburg, Krajia, Lorath and Cantal, Baron of Darkwood and Gravelhold, Fidei Defensor, Supreme Protector of Mankind, Master of the Lions of Man, etcetera. XIX PRINCESS OF ALSTION Henrietta Alstion Henrietta Karenina Horen-Alstion 7th of Sigismund's End, 1735 14th of the Deep Cold, 1758 https://wiki.lordofthecraft.net/index.php?title=Henrietta,_Princess_of_Alstion @Axelu Born at a nondescript estate in the Aeldinic Heartlands on the way the from Khalestine to Agathor, presumably owned by Horenic loyalists, Henrietta Karenina, christened Henrietta Karenina Alexandria after her grandmother the Empress Dowager Karenina, aunt and ancestress Princess Alexandria, and relative Queen Henrietta, was born the eldest child of Prince Charles of Alstion and Magdalena Helane, succeeded by her sister Heidemarie two years afterward. From birth, as the designated heir-presumptive to her father's legacy and was styled Duchess of Furnestock. After her betrothal and marriage to the Count George of Pompourelia, Henrietta dislodged all Johannian peerages from the Orenian system, styling herself as the Countess of Pompourelia. During this time, she sired three children: Peter Amadeus, George Ulysses, and Philippa Casimira. Three years thereafter, in 1758, Henrietta was assassinated in Sutica. Her death, and the subsequent death of her son who pursued the perpetrator of his mother's demise, were the primary causes for the Sutican War. XX PRINCE OF ALSTION Henry Alstion @argonian No Portrait Found ‘the Martyr’ Having spent most in life in quiet exile among the Daelish of Aeldin, there is little to note of Henry’s long life. But in his latter years, he travelled to Almaris, seeking to support his kinsmen in House de Joannes. Not long into the Sedanian Rebellion against the Empire, which sought to deland them merely for raising a levy, as was their right, their faithful ally Robert Foltest Helvets was captured by the Imperial State Army. In a daring manoeuvre, the Sedanian troops, led by figures such as Alexander de Joannes and Olivier de Savoie, stormed Providence, eager to rescue Lord Helvets. Henry, for his part, snuck into the walls of the city to open the gates and let the rescuing force into the city. Although he was successful in this, the mission proved to be a failure in the end. Henry was cut down as soon as he was caught, and Robert was executed by the Imperial State Army that same day without even a trial. XXI PRINCE OF ALSTION James Alstion @Caranthir_ ‘the Ruined’ Upon the death of his father, James fled the Orenian Empire, fearing repercussions to his family. He took with him a contingent of Daelish attendants, and settled within the ruins of a castle within central Almaris later called Alba. There, in self-imposed exile, James became fast friends with Olivier de Savoie, the man who would become the first Prince of the reformed nation of Sutica, turned into the Principality of Savoy. So strong was their friendship that the Duchy of Corazon, a traditional title of the House of Alstion, was bestowed unto Olivier within James’ will. James died leaving nothing behind of note, other than his children, the eldest of which would end up continuing the Alstionite Legacy. XXII PRINCE OF ALSTION Leopold Alstion @cruzazul Current patriarch An Author’s Conclusion During my studies, cloistered within libraries and the likes, I have come to a profound question that I have asked myself without rest: what is Alstion? What purpose does the family serve in this day and age? There is, obviously, an innate desire to further one’s bloodline, but the very essence of the title, Alstion, has continued to persist forever more - why? The House of Alstion, otherwise known as the House of Horen, serves Humanity as the eldest and most direct inheritors of the will of the Exalted: Horen, Owyn and Godfrey. There has been no greater force for change outside of that which the House of Horen has subjected Humanity to. Its very name is synonymous with that of Oren, which itself translates literally to Mankind in Common - their objective was to shepherd the flocks of Humanity towards the total supremacy of all things. However, this ambition has been routinely hampered at every century, first led astray by a rogue who would falsely declare himself divine, Horen ‘the Black,’ who, in his hubris, had fractured the Empire of Oren as he sailed the Great Exodus in search of a fool’s glory. And lastly, by the Pertinaxi usurper, Canonius, otherwise known regally as Aurelius I of Renatus, who beheaded the last Johannian boy emperor within his own court. These events are all notes of history now, forgotten or commemorated depending on the learner. My question ultimately remains: what does the House of Alstion present in this modern age? The House of Pertinax promised the total military supremacy of Humanity, that was its ethos, and what it presented regardless of opinion. The House of Marna promised the solidification of the Rights of Man and everything that came with it. The House of Helena and Novellen promised modernity and strict rule of law. But when I gathered knowledge to form such an answer to my own question, I have realised that the great promises of Alstion have already been all spent, their glorious successes a thing of the past - now acting as a perpetual claimant to the Orenian Empire. Will the Prince Leopold finally break free from the shackles of the Adelburg Coup and rejuvenate itself, or will he succumb to the generational stupor so synonymous with his recent predecessors?

TO WISH UPON A STAR TALES FROM THE WAR Captain of the Nauzica Brigade, MAXIM ATTENLUND, Commander of the Accord’s Western Flank at Petra The Waldenian Star flying high above Petra There could be no better day for a battle, Maxim believed to himself as he stewed in his thoughts, sat as comfortably as possible upon his steed, Attenlund. The horizon was clear of all forecast, and the sun truly smiled it’s sun’s smile upon all gathered below its warmth. Prior to the pitching of the opposing armies, the Tripartite had convened to discuss matters of the battle, ultimately seeing to the decentralization of hierarchy as commanders were given control of their own detachments, Maxim being one of such leaders. He would lead a detachment of cavalry along the flanks of the allied armies, serving as a foreguard for any potential flanking incursion. It was to be a simple affair. The Nauzican further thought to himself, as if in doing so, he would muster up some additional courage for the trials ahead. Afterall, truth be told, preliminary reports did detail the Tripartite outweighing the Orenian’s forces by a division or two - what need for caution was there? A general advance would see the enemy crushed under such sheer pressure and routed from the battlefield, surely. So was the thought anyway. “NARVAK OZ URGUAN, ADVANCE!” “Cavalry, west flank!” Complacency won the battle that day, for as the main lines converged upon Jarad’s Tavern, a surge of Renatians swelled forth from behind the many hedgerows of the Petran fields, charging towards the rear of the allied forces. It was realized far too late that the Orenians had divided their forces despite lacking the numbers, and had taken the Tripartite rear by surprise while their main lines kept the allies in place. And so, detached from the main engagement, Maxim’s own outnumbered division pivoted to face the onslaught despite the odds, hoping to at least give time to reorganize formations. The Orenian’s Arn van Aert’s charge collapsing Maxim’s own flank But it was for naught. The Renatian cavalry had punched through solidly, breaking apart the foreline and crashing into the main bulk of the Accord. The Nauzica Captain himself felled from his horse as a lance collided with his breastplate in the initial charge, sending the northerner spiraling to the ground with such force that the world turned black. His thoughts overtook him during such incapacitation as he laid halfway between the eternal damnation of the Void and Life - floating along aimlessly in the endless abyss as he pondered upon the circumstances that had led up to this point throughout his life as one would so stereotypically do before death. From his youth upon the slopes of the Rimveld, to his enlistment in the Haeseni Army, and finally his fated meeting with the Prince of Alstion. What purpose had his life served until then? Made to serve under the selfish tendencies of others, forced to conform to ambitions so miniscule. What led him to fight alongside heathens and halfmen against the Orenian cause, an ideal he strived for in such convoluted ways? He continued in this purgatory for what seemed to be an eternity until his mind was cleared by the radiant light of an ivory throne further illuminated by singular star shining bright. As the cries of battle came and went, the fallen Maxim had finally blinked his eyes open, a weary gaze set to the skies as he remained sprawled on his back. Through such concussion induced delusions, he sighted a great comet shining through the blue expanse high above, its fiery tail streaking across the horizon. Such an auspicious omen, for one who was so close to meeting his Maker. Perhaps a wish was to be in order, or perhaps a curse had befallen some unlucky few? Nevertheless, what he saw in the comet was the ascendance of the House of Alstion, claiming their rightful place amongst the Seven Heavens. The sounds of hooves made their way closer, and a similarly dressed man appeared, only later realized as William, the brother of his Alstionite liege. The cacophony of battle still rang true in the distance, though such sounds turned to panicked screams as the rout seemingly began. Stripped of his possessions, the lordling had hefted Maxim on his back and upon the horse, smacking the destrier forth to the retreating allies falling back to Haverlock. It seemed this Nauzican would live to see another battle, Reinvigorated for a cause greater than himself. The Glorious Dead, finally given respite from their worldly challenges

"Wub da skah?" Says Maxim the Maximum

i get butterflies whenver i think of louis :3

*nods

Maxim Attenlund, Captain of the Nauzica Brigade, smiles the sun's smile as he reminisces of the Orenian. With his smile still present, he recalls nearly being cut down, only to be saved from death by a certain elf - and once again as a Blackvale soldier slays the horse from beneath him, sending him spiraling into a melee of enemies, saved once more by his fellow Haeseni. He jabs Bult Wick's shoulder, his fellow cavalryman during the battle, whilst on return march to allied territories, "First Sedan, then on to Providence, da? Only good things to come now." @Nathan_Barnett36

THE BOOK OF NAUZICA TABLE OF CONTENTS: I. Preamble II. Rise and Fall of the Nauzica III. Duties and Payment IV. Enlistment P R E A M B L E Introduction The Nauzica Brigade, once regarded as the penultimate authority on the security of Emperors past, has since seen a lengthy period of hibernation. The Brigade has been ever changing with complications of time, along with the exigencies of their patrons; this military corps is more charged in history than one would imagine from its present appearance, presently bearing remarkable similarities from its inception as an auxiliary force of the Horosid armies of Aeldin - a mercenary force as it once were in that faraway continent, all those years ago. The Brigade’s mission ultimately remains that which it was in the days of the Horen Empire. The protection of the Prince of Alstion and his immediate family, and the relentless pursuance of its primary and secondary objectives. However, operational standards of this level come with hefty budgeting needs, and coin is a fickle matter, hence, at the recommendation of Maxim the Nauzican, the Brigade has offered itself as sellswords in this modern iteration. Only time will tell what will be made of the Nauzica Brigade. C H A P T E R 1 The Rise and Fall of the Nauzica “True gold does not fear the test of fires.” Thomas Wettlock upon his mount to the Nauzican John Montney, before the great flames of Seahelm. T H E R I S E The Nauzica Brigade were formed in Agathor, Aeldin, in 1487 at the dispensation of Governor Benda Chivay in the Prefecture of Nauzica. Comprised of two-hundred archers, one-hundred men-at-arms, and two dozen demi-lancers, the Nauzica Brigade positioned themselves as a company-for-hire under the watchful eye of the young Prince of Alstion Charles Henry Horen, later known as the ‘Old-Pretender Polycarp’. After challenging the Emperor of Aeldin’s throne the Nauzica were roundly defeated at the Battle of Ronda in 1499. Its present-day sigil, fourteen skulls on a black field, remembers those fallen comrades in that uprising. The Brigade dwindled over the next thirty years to be a minor retinue in service of the Old-Pretender Polycarp, but was given a new lease on life after his son, John Frederick, reclaimed the throne of the Holy Orenian Empire in 1526. Under the command of Vulpes Roke, the Brigade asserted its place as the bodyguard of the Emperor. After Roke’s death, the Nauzica shuffled through a number of chiefs, but soon lost its relevance and was shelved at the tail-end of Emperor John’s reign. Despite attempts to reform the Empire at the Diet of Saltstone, the Empire fractured when in 1557 the island of Avar threw off their allegiance to John II. Its expansive standing army confronted the Empire’s levy system in a series of poor skirmishes. It was clear that the military needed change, and the Nauzica Brigade was once again revitalised and executed with great success at the Battle of Dogger Bay, where the promising Michael Sunfield, later captain, spearheaded an assault on enemy lines. A number of rebels were captured and executed, and a direct attack on Felsen averted. The Brigade earned distinction after again breaking through lines at Seahelm in 1559, where trapped Rurkid commanders put up a little resistance. The siege won, a frenzied looting broke out amongst the levy-army whilst the Nauzica were put under orders to set the city alight, which carried out ruthlessly. The 1559 sacking was a watershed moment for the Brigade, who were under intense scrutiny by the peers of the realm, and their victory was memorialised in tapestries at the palace in Johannesburg some years later. D E C L I N E The Brigades fortunes wavered and waned through the reign of John III, who coordinated its integration into the order of Alstion, and later in 1579 the Imperial Legion. This centralised form of command brought a series of quick victories to the Empire. On the eve of John’s death, the Empire made up the vast majority of the continent of Axios. But these reforms may have proven fatal. John III died by an assassin’s hand at the height of his power, and John IV after him died in similar fashion not one year after his father. The succeeding reign of Philip I saw the Empire engulfed in civil war, and its collapse was not helped by the turning of the Nauzica’s 7th Captain, Philip Louis, to the rebel banners. Nevertheless, those loyal to the Brigade fought to the death, and were eventually decimated late in 1595 by Philip’s hand at the explosion of Johannesburg. With the Empire gone and the imperial line in disarray, any loyalist remnants dissipated into the mountains and swamps. The Nauzican never reached the peak that they had enjoyed at Seahelm midway through the 16th century. The formation of the Sixth Empire was the nadir of Oren’s fortunes. Successive failings in leadership culminated in the abdication of Peter II, the loss in the War of the Beards, and the death of the child-Emperor John VI at the hands of Arpad of Vilacz in the 1638 coup d’etat of Adelburg. Alongside ending Johannian rule, the coup was the death-knell of an already crippled and exhausted Nauzica, with its number wiped out entirely. Despite having a notable reformation in 1700 under the reign of Augustus I, Emperor of Man, the Nauzica, its military and cultural legacy, has remained dormant. Two years after Augustus’ abdication, the then Emperor Antonius disbanded the small guard in favour of the infamous Dragon Knights. “Rosencrantz, where are my legions?!” King Arn of Aesterwald ranting after his defeat at Milvian Bridge B A T T L E S The Nauzica has had countless engagements throughout the years. The vast majority of these are in the record of the internal archives of the Brigade, the most notable of which are listed here. 1487 — The Sack of Caer Mant The inaugural major battle of the Nauzica Brigade, the Sack of Caer Mant was where the Hexer School of the Griffin’s uprising was quelled on behalf of Governor Benda Chivay. The stronghold of Caer Mant was devastated through siegeworks, with the Nauzican Brigade assuming the vanguard and thrashing the host of seditious Marked Men in a bloody assault. The legendary duel between Prince Charles and Hexer Hieronymous of Lex is recorded in the song The Half-Hand Hexer, recounting Charles’ feat in maiming the Hexer against considerable odds. 1499 — The Battle of Ronda At the hamlet of Ronda, the Nauzican Brigade suffered an emasculating defeat at the hands of Emperor Audemar. Commanded by ver de Linde, the Brigade attempted to ford the Rond river at the stroke of dusk in an attempt of ambushing Audemar’s own camp and capturing the Aeldinic emperor. Their feint was uncovered by forward sentries, who promptly stirred the armies from their slumber and apprehended the Nauzican skirmishers in pitched conflict. The battle ended in gristly defeat as an entire contingent of the brigade were massacred. 1559 — The Sack of Seahelm The Nauzica Brigade played an instrumental role in the swift victory at Seahelm. Captain Drevin de Sarkozy was charged with leading the imperial vanguard into the city. Nauzicans served with distinction as they decimated the enemy force in a fierce blitz, leaving only stragglers in their wake. F O R M E R C A P T A I N S The captains of Nauzica are listed below, those esteemed men entrusted with the leadership of the prestigious brigade. 1st Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Charles Henry Horen, Prince of Alstion 2nd Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser Vulpes Roke 3rd Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser John Godfrey Horen, King of Vandoria 4th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser Drevin de Sarkozy 5th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser Michael Hightower 6th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser Alexander Horen 7th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser Edwyn Harwyn 8th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Philip Louis Horen-Marna, Duke of Marna 9th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Owein aep Cynan 10th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser Phillip Marshall 11th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Ser Stefan Morovic 12th Captain of the Nauzica Brigade: Maxim Attenlund N O T A B L E P A T R O N S The Nauzica Brigade has always been in service to a greater purpose, from its rise in Vailor following the Horen Restoration, to the modern restoration in Almaris. The overwhelming majority of these iterations have been under the personal command of the Holy Orenian Emperor. Charles Henry ‘the Old-Pretender Polycarp’ of the House of Horen-Alstion Holy Orenian Emperor John Frederick ‘the Relentless’ of the House of Horen-Alstion Holy Orenian Emperor John Owyn ‘the Lion’ of the House of Horen-Alstion Holy Orenian Emperor Philip Frederick ‘the Defiant’ of the House of Horen-Alstion Holy Orenian Empire Peter Sigismuind ‘the Troubadour’ of the House of Horen-Alstion Emperor of Man Augustus of the House Horen-Pertinax Holy Orenian Emperor Alexander Leopold of the House de Joannes The arms of the Nauzica Patrons, Johannian-Present “A handful of men, inured to war, proceed to certain victory, while on the contrary, numerous armies of raw and undisciplined troops are but multitudes of men dragged to the slaughter.” Ser Vulpes Roke, whilst educating a young Albert de Falstaff in the halls of Anpalais. C H A P T E R 2 Duties and Payment “If only… I had paid them more...” Vibius de Sola while being killed by his mutineering soldiers The Brigade is primarily a bodyguard to and personal retinue of the Prince of Alstion and his immediate family. Those enlisted should expect the privilege of guarding and serving the House Alstion, as well as fighting its campaigns and sharing in its victories. Even so, the Nauzica has returned to its roots as a limited mercenary task force. If approved by the Prince, the Captain of the Brigade may exchange money or goods for its services in combat. This helps fund the soldiers' lodgings, arms, and awards. The Brigade will correspondingly house, feed, and arm all soldiers regardless of rank or social status, as well as maintain appropriate conditions according to blood and pedigree. Additionally, those who have served eight years are entitled to a supplementary parcel of land within the realm of the House Alstion. Brigadiers are offered a share of a contract’s reward upon completion, the amount at the discretion of the Captain and circumstances provided. Monetary payments are paid by the House Alstion typically through specially received merits and medals awarded by the Captain. Most decorations see monetary reward, and the base form of payment for soldiers. Brigadiers are encouraged to perform and strive for these medals, rewarding positive actions and loyalty to the Alstion’s at large. M E D A L S Star of Saint Lothar, for those who performed a miraculous action in battle to save the unit from dire circumstances, the highest of Nauzican awards. 200minas. Embroidered Cross of Saint Felder, a golden cross embroidered with various gems for those who performed extreme acts of heroism in accomplishment of a military goal or objective. 100minas. Ruby Bracer, an engraved ruby medallion awarded to soldiers for drawing first blood in an engagement. 50minas. Tears of Saint Daniel, a silver bracelet engraved with a depiction of enemy fortifications, awarded to the first soldier to charge. 30minas. Saint Andrik’s Sword, a metal brooch in the shape of a blade awarded for each individual kill acquired by a Nauzican during battle. 20minas. “Do as you are told.” Emperor John I to Ser Baldwin the Black after ruling for the death of Sergius de Bar C H A P T E R 3 Enlistment What once defined the Nauzica as a gentlemen’s corp, occupied by the fine aristocracy of the past, is now instead reduced to small retinue under the Prince of Alstion. Resultantly, the Brigade has gone through considerable structural changes, from the consolidation of ranks to drastic alterations of its core identity. Nevertheless, certain expectations of discipline and decorum are still expected to be maintained, as the Nauzica are primarily responsible for the protection of the Alstion family. In order to be inducted into the Nauzica Brigade, one must be handpicked directly by the Captain of the Brigade. Inductees are chosen from across Almaris and generally must have some experience in warfare on record, be of above-average skill, having prowess with a blade and numerous other weapons. Upon enlisting, the Nauzica must swear the oath as quoted. “I swear to be true to our Patron, and not to maintain silence about any evil that I may know which is being contemplated against them. I swear that I will obey my commander and aid my fellow brothers. I swear to cast off any traitor be it friend or foe in honour of our Patron and Captain. I swear this before God and men. I bid farewell to my former life and grace my newest with my shield and blade; stalwart and ever vigilant for humanity. This oath I give of my own free and independent will. There follows points of contact for further enquiry: Captain of the Nauzica Brigade - Maxim the Nauzican @seannie Commander of the Nauzica Brigade - Patronus Leopold Johannes Alstion, Count of Yves @cruzazul

(thanks to @Emery for shoutout

"Die a hero or join Oren." Maxim says with sadness upon hearing of the Empire bending over backwards to accommodate the Ferrybois that had been slaughtering them on routine earlier in the years.

A firebrand continues advocating for religious war upon the Godless within Providence, now utilizing Ileana's murder in Providence as further just cause. "Fear of God must be re-instilled within the hearts of the Orenian or else more danger will befall the Church!"

guns

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE HIGH PONTIFF AND DEFENDER OF THE FAITH A CALL TO ACTION 17th of Amber Cold, 1855 “And Vargentgotz calls forth three deceivers in the guise of messengers, with wings of cold fire. They are called Justice, Glory, and Reward. Before the priests, the first exalts wrath. Before the kings, the second exalts pride. And before the merchants, the last exalts avarice. So the world is the possession of cruel men.” Auspice 1:9-13 THE EYE OF PROVIDENCE AWAITS It has been reaffirmed in the Pontifical Declaration of Officium Ad Deum that the rule of Emperor Philip and Empress Anastasia are no longer valid, as per the Law regarding Excommunicated Princes of the Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex. As per Chapter 3, Canonist Princes, “Additionally, Canonists are obliged to make all virtuous efforts to reconvert him, or failing that, to overthrow him.” We all know of this Law - yet the servants of the Orenian Empire remain fooled, either by their own violation or by deception - they make no actions of their own, blindly following their leaders into oblivion. To His Holiness, I write; issue a formal Interdiction upon the entirety of the Orenian Empire. Their determination to continue serving the invalid should be met by our own resolve. Instill within them the fear of God once more, grant them clemency only when the rule of Philip and Anastasia is no more. Furthermore, it is recommended that the Orenian Government is to be excommunicated for their intricate involvement in continuing the false reign of this illicit prince. Show them that the authority of the Church is not to be contested by petty ambitions. Those who signed their foolish objections in Anastasia’s letter must be shown the righteous wrath of a scorned Church; John Casimir of Renzfeld George Maximilian of Renzfeld Amelia Margaret Anne Caroline of Oren George Novellen-Aldersberg Minuvas Melphestaus Joseph Ledicort d’Azor Victor Simon Vasile Thomas Andrew Helvets Erik var Ruthern Erik Othaman Amadie Marlene Pruvia Archibald Galbraith Theodosia Illeana O'Rourke Quinn Darkwood Fyodor Carrion-Tuvyic Anastasios Alexios Basrid Rev Vuiller Helena Eleanor Sarkozy-Pompourelia Evangeline Halcourt Otis de Rosius Arthur Komnenos Leopold Draskovic Wilhelm Lucius d’Arkent Henrik Komnenos Only through true repentance should they be allowed back into our flock. To His Majesty, the Defender of the Faith: rally Canondom to your banners. A League of Canonists must assemble to bring back order to the lands administered by the Church. There are a great number of Canonists awaiting your decisive action, King of Haense - now is not the time to remain isolationist in the far north of Almaris; you have a part to fulfill, as do we all in this great scheme. You must be first to take action, or else be left in the dirt as the world moves on without you. They have bared their teeth, it is only expected that we loyal faithful return the favor. Inaction will only allow a wound to fester with puss, Canondom must be saved. Philip and Anastasia must be deposed by our forces directly, if the Orenian people continue to stand by idly. I hope my insolence shall be forgiven, but trying times call for desperate measures. FORM THE LEAGUE OF CANONISTS DEPOSE THE EMPEROR RESTORE THE FAITH “Their enemy is Vargengotz the Destroyer, who rules from his capital, which was the holiest city. And in his army are Vargengotz’s slaves, the tyrants and the treacherous, and his false servants, Justice, Glory, and Reward. And Godfrey’s host meets them in battle upon the mountain. Thus Godfrey raises the scepter of rebuke; And lo! the command of GOD is justice, and the unjust are punished: Vargengotz and his servants are destroyed.” Auspice 2:33-38 Your Servant, Maxim the Nauzican

"The High Pontiff must call upon a League of Canonists to depose the anathema now - it has become abundantly apparent that Providence will not commit to their faith and do their part as per our most sacred Canon Law. Decisive action must be taken!" Maxim declares to his fellow compatriots within the conquered Crownlands of Oren, his zealotry bolstered by the High Pontiff's continued opposition to the Emperor.

"This is a big wig money laundering scheme." Maxim comments on the Morduan NFT auction.

Maxim shudders as he telepathically endures the Du Loc brain blast throughout Almaris - their insane, albeit righteous, screeching heard all the way in the north, in Karosgrad.

no one cares about your special items

MEMORANDUM FOR KNIGHT-MEYSTER, REINHARDT @Capt_Chief26 KOENG, SIGISMUND III FROM: SQUIRE, MAXIM ATTENLUND SUBJECT: AFTER ACTION REPORT - TRIAL OF SZITIBOR DATE: 406 E.S, 12-17 of MSITZA & DARGUN LOCATION: FAR-EAST HAENSE, ATTENLUND, STAALMARSH As established in the Knight Meeting of the 7th of Gronna & Droba, 406 E.S, the Trial of Szitibor was appointed to Squire Maxim Attenlund by His Majesty, King Sigismund. The ensuing months were reserved for Squire Maxim’s preparations, scheduled to depart on the 12th of Msitza & Dargun. The Trial of Szitibor, otherwise known as the Trial of Cunning in its Common translation, establishes the rules of a hunt, wherein the appointee is to head forth into the wilds, brave its environment, and slay a beast of notability, afforded no equipment or weapons in this quest - utilizing only their own mental capability and the wilderness itself. As instructed by His Majesty, Maxim’s specific quarry was with the Thorqal, an aquatic and scaly creature native to the far east of Haense, the Staalmarsh. Hence, at the behest of His Majesty, the departure on the 12th continued without fault, with Maxim leaving Karosgrad early in the day. The journey eastward took him through Astfield, Ayr, Knoxville, and finally the frontier of Attenlund, with Jerovitz serving as a final stop. Upon scaling the range of Mt. Sigismund and cresting its peak, the Staalmarshes laid wide open on the horizon, where the Thorqal lurked. Despite the autumn weather, neither the beast, nor Maxim were to be deterred by such cold, and so the Squire continued forth, delving into the rigid temperature of the marshes. Utilizing his knowledge and skills developed as a second generation settler of the Attenlund, it took but a day’s time for Maxim to uncover traces of the Thorqal, having heard the death throes of its prey, and eventually triangulating those auditory sources to its den. Preliminary examination found that the beast’s abode was a semi-submerged cave, which connected to a lake where the creature no doubt preyed on the local ecosystem. As rain began to pour, Maxim took to camouflaging himself in the greenery of the marshes, and making an inspection of the beast’s abode, finding it without its occupier. Nevertheless, the den formed the first part in Maxim’s quick thinking plan, for if he could lure the creature a desired point, a most opportune ambush could be enacted as it returns. Already in the distance could he catch glimpses of the beast, amidst sunken ruins in the center of the lake, giving him the time and distance to begin. Without any time wasted, the ambush was set; logs were rolled above the entrance of the cave, among a variety of other debris, which would see the Thorqal crushed under such weight. The next step was to lure the Thorqal to this trap, which was a simple enough effort, for the beast was lured over simply by the throwing of stones, which disturbed the waters enough that the curious beast was attracted to these distractions. It was at this point that the deception was sprung fully. Just as the Thorqal began passing below, Maxim had burst forth from his vantage point, pushing the logs over and sending them down upon the beast, which trashed about in the water violently as it was forced deeper underwater. However, to Maxim’s frustration, this did not incapacitate or kill the beast but at least disorientated it enough for the Squire to follow through as it came to surface Equipped with an improvised club, Maxim had leapt from his outcrop and down onto the Thorqal, shattering the club into a thousand pieces as it slammed against the beast’s skull, further concussing it. Though, now out of his element and shocked back to his senses by the autumn-cold water, Maxim fled immediately to the nearby shore after his strike, unwilling to part with his life so quickly admit the marsh. The wounded but enraged Thorqal chased after, setting the stage for the final bout, wherein Maxim, taking advantage of the muddy terrain and sluggish movement of his quarry, had deftly avoided the beast’s attack, found its back and plunged a shard of splintered wood into its eye. The beast was finished off completely when the wooden shard was slammed further into its skull by Maxim’s fist hammering it down. With a sloppy severance of the Thorqal’s head, Maxim returned to civilization and announced his Trial concluded. Krusae Zwy Kongzem Many thanks @Xarkly for the roleplay

Are single life elimination warclaims unfeasible nowadays? Seems like adding new problems to an already problematic issue wasn't the best course of action. Don't understand how adding warzone-based mechanics to warclaims can mitigate lag and crashes in the first place.

While out grocery shopping, Maxim comes across the tabloid at the checkout. He gives it glance, and after having seen its cover page, he scoffs, continuing on with his day. "Ain't buying no darn magazines like that, no thanks, full of nonsense in there." He says in muttering, causing the teller to raise a brow.