Xarkly

"COWABUNGA" Sigismund.

VE BOYAR TREVVA THE BOYAR COUNCIL KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 19th day of Jula and Piov of 400ES VA BIRODEO HERZNEV AG EDLERVIK The King wishes to formally establish his council of Boyars, a council which has had an informal existence during the reigns of Josef, Henrik II, and now Sigismund III, as a continuation of the Royal Advisory Cabinet of Sigismund II. Though a Council in name, the Boyar are better described as a body of compatriots held closely within the King's Court, and thus they wield no legal power. Though there exists no formal requirements for one to be dubbed a Boyar of the King's Court - as the paramount traits are that of loyalty, diligence, and competence - nearly all Boyars are named for either a specific expertise, or following retirement from the Aulic Council. With the promulgation of this Edict, it is the hope of the Crown that the Haeseni people shall glean a greater insight into the machinations of the Kongzem, and those who may be trusted as proponents of the monarch. The Boyar Council seats seven advisors, which together constitute the esteemed advisors at the heart of the King's Court. This number is derived from the tradition of the Burgundian Host of Antiquity, from the Waldorf-Basin Era, which originally comprised of seven members: Brzyzek of Mejen; Huss of the Lilies of Gaekrin; Ian Orsten the Adunion; Lorik Svensen the Haensmen; William the Beggar of Aaun; Anton the Sepoy; and its first Hetmen, Jan Yeremi of Lahy. It is thus said that when one of the Boyar seats lies empty, great misfortune befalls the King who is they are meant to serve. Grand Prince of Kusoraev KARL SIGMAR BARBANOV-BIHAR SEAT RESERVED Though the Grand Prince of Kusoraev is but an infant, a seat is reserved for him upon the Boyar Council until he comes of age so that he might became learned in the art of statecraft through both his father, and fellow Boyars. _________ Former Heir Apparent ANDRIK NIKOLAS BARBANOV-BIHAR As younger brother to King Sigismund III and, therefore, former Heir-Apparent to the throne of Haense, the Duke of Akovia was named Boyar of the King's Court so that should the King die without siring a male heir, Prince Andrik would have some training with which to rule. Following the birth of Karl Sigmar, Grand Prince of Kusoraev and heir of King Sigismund III, Prince Andrik retains his role as Boyar to his elder brother in recognition of his ambition and, in particular, his interest in diplomacy and representative of the Kongzem abroad. _________ Court Chaplain KLAUS BARCLAY As the son of former Knight Paramount Cedric Barclay, Lord Klaus attempted to follow in his father's footsteps by joining the Knight's Table as a squire. Alas, a series of misadventures and controversies dashed his knightly ambitions not once, but twice. This spell of controversies sent Klaus to find guidance in Godan, and he thus dedicated himself to the Canonist Church. As a childhood friend of King Sigismund III, he was invited to serve as Boyar on his Court as Court Chaplain and spirtual advisor of the King. _________ Former Lord Marshal & Duke of Vidaus AILRED VAR RUTHERN To date, the Duke of Vidaus remains uncontested as one of the greatest battle commander on Almaris following his tenure as Lord Marshal of the Brotherhood of Saint Karl until 396ES, during which he distinguished himself during raids on Karinah'siol to lead Haense to victory in the Haelunorian War, and in the harsh deserts heat during the Sutican Civil War before he retired to tend to his Duchy. In recognition of his unmatched merits as a commander, and for his experience in leading and reforming the Brotherhood for many years, Lord Ailred serves in his retirement as Boyar on the King's Court to provide counsel in military matters and to assist the current the Lord Marshal. _________ Former Aulic Envoy ANDRIK BARUCH Lord Andrik, following his many years of service beneath King Heinrik II as Aulic Envoy, distinguished himself in shaping Haeseni diplomacy and international relations. Amidst his trophies includes a web of treaties, sagely counsel on international intervention, such as in the Sutican Civil War, and as an unflinching negotiator that oversaw the Kongzem's rise as a diplomatic superpower prior to his resignation in 392ES. In a time of brewing international change on Almaris, he serves as Boyar on the King's Court for the purposes of providing his extensive experience of diplomacy with other nations. _________ VACANT SEAT Held vacant following the retirement and reclusivity of Lady Tatiana Kortrevich and Firr Adrian Colborn. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

transperancy goes a long way!

Out of morbid curiosity, what would you say the main problem is?

HONOUR'S EVE KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 6th day of Joma and Umund of 399ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK It is high time that the Crown look to their meritorious subjects, and render unto them the honours, and duties, they have so diligently won. Within these past years, the Royal Duma have nominated several Haeseni to be inducted into the Order of Queen Maya and the Lily, nominated three Haeseni to serve in the post of Jovenaar within the new legal system established by the Blubber Act, and the time has also come for a new warrior be dubbed a Knight of the Order of the Crow. Thus, in this coming spring of 400ES, the Crown summons these men and women to accept their honours: A representative of Viktor Kortrevich, to accept on his behalf an elevation within the Order of Queen Maya and the Lily to Valtakossar; Ailred Ruthern, to be named to the Order of Queen Maya and the Lily as Hauchkossar; Fionn Castaway, to be named to the Order of Queen Maya and the Lily as Hauchkossar; Otto Morovar, to be named to the Order of Queen Maya and the Lily as Kossar; Johann Ludovar, to be named to the office of Jovenaar; Isaak Amador, to be named to the office of Jovenaar; Otto Wittenbach, to be named to the office of Jovenaar; and Erwin Bishop, to be dubbed a Knight of the Order of the Crow. In commemoration of these honours, the Crown invites all subjects of the Kongzem to the Nikirala Prikaz in the coming spring to witness the ceremony. [[THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH, 3PM EST/8PM GMT]] IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

THE DUKE AND THE DAUGHTER The warble of a flock of goldcrests echoed across the fields of Cathalon as the cavalry rode through. The summer sun had ebbed towards the horizon, and so the rolling Orenian grasslands, sparsely populated by clusters of oaks and pines, were bathed in a deep orange light and marred with long, sharp shadows. The sky was a deeper orange still, and lonely streaks of clouds were hued pink near the setting sun. Even if it was too hot by Haeseni standards, it was a peaceful evening. Sigismund, however, did not feel at peace. The King of Haense rode at the head of a column of riders as they trot down the trodden dirt road that wound north from Cathalon into the Grenzi. Beneath the rippling folds of the back-gold banner of Haense - carried by Marie Ludovar - mailed men and women of the Knight’s Table and the Brotherhood of Saint Karl rode, laughing and chatting raucously. The older soldiers grinned ruefully as they compared today’s escapades to the horrors they had endured in the Nachezer or Troll War while passing a skin of Carrion back and forth, while a knot of squires hoarsely bellowed the lyrics to Trollsayer’s Ballad. One of the Brotherhood armigers - Sigismund did not recognize them - had pulled out a flute to put some reedy notes behind the shouts. “How can we fight such evil, the red walls asked in fright! But her defenders did not falter, for they were Haeseni Knights!” “You ought to at least try to look happy,” chided a voice at Sigismund’s side. The King gave Kaustantin Baruch a sidelong look. In turn, the Ayrian Palatine tried to give him a reassuring smile as the sun shimmered brightly on the lens of his spectacles. “This was a success. Your honour was avenged, and the girl got her due.” Sig grunted doubtfully. He craned his head in Aeron’s saddle to look behind him, past the steel-clad forms of Ser Flemius and Dame Tavisha - who rode at his flank - to the two women behind the Knights. One of them - his mother, Queen-Mother Annika - rode in divided skirts beneath her fur coat, and despite being well into her middle years, her mature features and fiery hair lent her a regal aura. Klara - Sigismund’s infant daughter - rode in the Queen-Mother’s lap, clapping her hands playfully as a butterfly flew past. It was, however, the woman riding beside his mother that caught Sigismund’s attention. Henrietta Helvets rode slumped in her saddle, and despite the shawl covering the younger woman’s face, Sigismund could still see her shoulders heave with silent sobs. Annika caught Sigismund’s look, and returned a concerned one of her own, before the King looked back to the road ahead with a frustrated hiss while the squires continued their ill-tuned song. “Ser Boris did hold the gate against the ghastly wind! He stood firm and met his foe even as his forces thinned!” “This was meant to be about protecting Henrietta,” Sigismund said through grit teeth as the road came to a wide long bridge that spanned over a tributary of the Staal Eada river, shallow this time of year in the absence of spring rains. Past the bridge, the fir trees that marked the entrance to the Grenzi - the hills of northern Oren - stood. It had been just over two hours since the Haeseni party left Cheval Hall -- the seat of House Helvets, and Henrietta’s home. Or former home, I should say. The very reason that Sigismund rode in Oren with his Knights and soldiers was because Henrietta sought to marry Sigismund’s brother, but not only did her father condemn the union, but he had gone so far as to slander the Royal House. Haeseni honour dictated that that could not go unanswered. “ … I’m not sure how I can ever repay her, Kaus.” “Repay her?” the Palatine repeated as he hitched his chequered tartan over his shoulder. “We’re the ones who supported her, Sigismund.” Sig ran a hand through his windswept curls. “She … she knew this would happen, Kaus. She knew her father would never let her marry my brother. She knew it would end like this, but she chose for it to happen anyway. Kaustantin ... “ he shook his head. “She chose to abandon her family to marry my brother. Marus, of all people. She gave up her old life just to make him happy. How can I ever repay that?” Kaus’ smile had faded, leaving only the usual grim temperance on the Palatine’s face. “Besides, you’re doing her a favour, if you ask me. I’ve seen men send killers after their daughters because of marriage. The sooner she got away from that dysfunctional hellhole, the better.” “Maybe,” Sigismund muttered half-heartedly as they cleared the bridge. He knew he owed Henrietta a debt for this, and he knew it was one he could likely never repay. Not the first, and not the last. “If you want something to sulk over,” Kaus went on as the clop of the horseshoes of riders behind them echoed off the bridge, “there are other things to worry about. Like the Oreners, for one.” “Hmph. It will blow over,” Sigismund grumbled, though it was not a mess he looked forward to cleaning up. It had to be done, he reminded himself for the umpteenth time. Honour demanded it. “I would not be so sure.” The Palatine turned in his saddle and stared down his spectacles at the row of Haeseni horsemen behind them. “You marched a small army into Orenian land to shake-down a Duke for an apology.” The echoing clop of horseshoes abruptly stopped as the last of the Haeseni riders crossed the river, and the singing squires made birds take startled flight from the nearing fir trees. “He led the valiant sally, and hacked back the viscous horde! In spite of their strength and size, they were no match for his sword!” “We were guests of Lady Henrietta,” Sig answered flatly. “Technically, we didn’t break any treaties.” “Technically,” Kaustantin snorted, and Sigismund was surprised to feel his lips twitch up. Up ahead, the border of the Grenzi crested to a gentle hilltop, beyond which fir imposing fir trees cloaked the land, and it was on that hill that two riders in Haeseni colours appeared atop their horses. One of them was a young August Barclay, riding a pony instead of a horse, and wearing a sallet helmet five times too big for his head. Beside him on a Reinmaren thoroughbred was his elder kin, Viktor -- their scout. “Road’s clear as far as Mordskov, your Majesty!” he bellowed down. “Still time to go back to Cathalon and kill that weasel, even!” Sigismund shook his head, and raised his hand to give a circular wave. At the signal, Viktor nodded, and slapped August’s shoulder. The two Barclays heeled their horses, and rode off over the hill to continue their watch. “He has a point,” Kaustantin said once the scouts vanished. “You did Henrietta a favour by taking her away -- you’d be saving her siblings the same trauma by putting an end to the fool.” Sigismund’s small smile vanished as quickly as it had come. When the Duke of Cathalon had refused to retract his slander against the Royal House, the only outcome honour allowed was a duel. Ser Flemius had stood as Haense’s champion, and handily defeated the Duke, but it had done nothing to stop the man’s tirade. Though the Duke had defended himself chivalrously, he had thrown that all away when he tried to attack Ser Flemius again after the duel. Consequently, Kaustantin was not the first to suggest the Duke should have died for his dishonour. “ … That’s not what we came here to do,” Sig answered as he scrubbed his temples. He felt a headache brewing from it all. “He fought the duel, and he lost. He paid for his slander honourably.” “Honourably?” Kaustanin sneered. “He tried to kill Ser Flemius afterwards.” “Yes, well … if he wants to debase himself so, let him. That’s justice enough. And besides …” he eyed the weeping Helvets woman over his shoulder, “that wouldn’t have helped any.” Would it not? A voice in the back of his mind questioned. Was it better to let him live to render those insults again? To do unto his other children what he did to Henrietta? He clenched his fists around his horse’s reins. Who am I to judge? He scolded himself. Henrietta and Henrietta alone was our concern. We handled our business -- how he runs, or does not run, his House is his right. That was what Sigismund kept telling himself, but it seemed to make no difference to his dour mood. “I don’t understand, Sigismund,” Kaustantin went on wistfully as the fir trees of the Grenzi surrounded them. Already, he could hear an owl hooting in the distance. “This kind of story would have once had you as excited as a girl at Juliyafest. It has everything - love, knights, maidens, honour - and we have managed to do some good.” Sigismund did not answer. He most certainly did not feel like they had done any good, but nor had they failed in their quest, either. They had confronted Henrietta’s father, given the woman her closure, but now Henrietta rode with them, crying all the while. The Duke of Cathalon had faced Ser Flemius in combat and lost for his insults, but Sigismund felt no better for it. In fact, he felt worse than he had when they had first ridden into Oren. Why, then? he asked himself. Back in Karosgrad, when Henrietta had first told him of her intent, it had all felt so ... easy, so right. The honour of the House of Bihar would be avenged, and Henrietta would be free to marry Sigismund's brother, her true love. Only mere hours ago, it had all seemed to simple. Yet now, as he led the party between the copses of fir trees where woodpeckers worked nosily, it felt anything but. It felt like Sigismund had stepped into a mire while blindfolded. "Maybe we're just too old for those stories, Kaus." The orange glow of the world had slowly succumbed to shadow as the last slivers of the setting sun disappeared behind the trees. Behind Sigismund, the squires broke into the final verse of the song. The flute climbed to a crescendo. "For the red walls had stood, though bloodied and splintered! The wind fled north, for its wrath had been wintered!"

THE BLACK-GOLD PEACE Agreed on this 12th day of Msitza and Dargund of 399ES Between the KONGZEM OF HANSETI-RUSKA and the PRINCIPALITY OF SAVOY Let no man be estranged from his brother in God. Following the conclusion of the Silver Peace and the Haelunorian War, it is the pleasure of the Kongzem of Haense and the Principality of Savoy to affirm their peace under God in this Treaty. I These brothers in God shall pledge recognition of each other’s sovereignty, and that they shall recognize no other claimant to their titles, nor invaders of their territory. II These brothers in God shall pledge not to draw arms against one another, and if such tensions arise, to solve them by peace of plea. III These brothers in God pledge to protect Haeseni within Savoyard land, and Savoyards within Haeseni lands, so long as they do not flout the law of either. IV These brothers in God pledge to trade freely by allowing merchants of their sovereigns to trade free of tax within their lands through provision of a tax-free stall, and that the goods sold in these stalls shall not offend the laws and beliefs of the nation. V These brothers in God shall, at their discretion, agreement, and invitation, assist each other in times of war. VI These brothers in God shall commit to fostering bonds among their people through sending representatives to each others’ court addresses, and inviting their peoples to revelries and festivals. VII These brothers in God pledge that this Peace shall last for ten years. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. IN NOMINE DEI, HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano

Golden Crow Banking: 400ES GOLDEN KRAWNS Issued by the CROWN On this 7th day of Vzmey and Hyff of 399ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK With the 400th anniversary of the revelation of Exalted Sigismund imminent, and with a growing demand for Golden Krawn investments, the Crown, in its capacity as keeper of the Royal Treasury, does certify the minting of new Golden Krawns to go on sale immediately in the Golden Crow Bank on the main square in the Royal Capital of Karosgrad. These Krawns shall be categorised as the 11th, 12th, and 13th Editions of Golden Krawns minted by the Bank. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

NOTICE ON THE BIRTH OF THE GRAND PRINCE OF KUSORAEV & THE DUKE OF ROTHSWALD KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 7th day of Jula and Piov of 399ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK Five years had passed since the birth of Edvard Arjen Bihar, Grand Prince of Kusroaev - heir to the throne of Hanseti Ruska - and five years have passed since his death. Since then, the Royal House has been blessed by Godan with the birth of the Prizenas Royal Klara Elizaveta, Duchess of Baranya, and I could convince only a blind and deaf fool that I do not cherish her above nearly all else. As King of Haense, however, I am duty-bound to ensure the survival of the esteemed lineage of Barbanov-Bihar through the siring of a male heir -- a male heir whom I must teach, must train, and must prepare. A male heir who, upon my demise, shall succeed me as King of Hanseti and Ruska. A male heir who, against his will, shall be deprived of a life of normality and encumbered with the fate of Almaris’ strongest nation. Thus, on this day, I announce the birth of the Grand Prince of Kusoraev and heir to my throne. Already, I am pleased to note, my son shows wisdom in knowing that strength comes in numbers, for he did not enter this world alone; mere minutes after his birth did another son, a brother, join him. I therefore beseech all the Kongzem celebrate the birth of: HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, GRAND PRINCE OF KUSORAEV, KARL SIGMAR BARBANOV-BIHAR @GMRO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, THE DUKE OF ROTHSWALD, SERGEI ALEKSANDR BARBANOV-BIHAR @Coolcod77 Pray for them, people of Haense, for the future of our Kongzem rests upon their shoulders. KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

A string of bad occurrences all falling on Almaris has left a pretty sour taste in most people's mouth I think. I hate to be just another staff shitter because it's such a broken record, but I really think Admins dropped the ball on enabling conflict and ST really should have followed through on the energy from Inferi to give some engaging map storylines ('they're coming' can't be an excuse, we've been on Almaris too long for there not to have been SOMETHING before Ando). Roleplay is what you make of it is more true now than it ever was. I've been able to have fun through character relationships, but its wasy for people to become disillusioned right now.

VALKSKEJ ARANYZ THE SILVER PEACE Agreed on this 21st day of Jula and Piov of 397ES Between the KONGZEM OF HANSETI-RUSKA, the PRINCIPALITY OF SAVOY, and the GRAND KINGDOM OF URGUAN GREZSIR EDLERVIK ALMARIS For years has the Kongzem of Hanseti-Ruska sought amends for the dishonours inflicted upon them by the Silver State of Haelunor, whose transgressions have likewise sparked the ire of the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. In light the Silver State’s status as a Protectorate of the Principality of Savoy, peace returns to Almaris as the three nations have collaborated to assent to these terms. It is agreed that this Peace shall stand following the dissolution of the Silver Protectorate. __________ I The Silver State of Haelun’or shall sell the territory of Ando Alur and the surrounding landscape to the Grand Kingdom of Urguan for ten thousand mina. The City of Ando Alur shall relocate to Haelunorian land, along with all their infrastructure, unimpeded. The City of Ando Alur shall be permitted a grace period of three years to do. II The Silver State of Haelun’or shall pay the Kongzem of Hanseti-Ruska ten thousand mina in reparations. III The Silver State of Haelun’or formally apologises for its transgressions against the Kongzem of Hanseti-Ruska and the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. IV The Kongzem of Hanseti-Ruska and the Grand Kingdom of Urguan shall, upon their honour, cease all conflicts and hostilities with the Silver State of Haelun’or. _________ IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. IN NOMINE DEI, HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano, Protector of the High Elves Grand King of Urguan, Lord of Clan Frostbeard, Thane of Rhewenholm, Great-Grandson of Rhewen

Ve Auszraz Duemmen i 398ES THE ROYAL COURT OF 398ES Recorded as held on this 17th day of Vzmey and Hyff of 398ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK On the chill early-spring morning, with the late-winter cold lingering in the air and the morning light a pale, frosty blue, the people of the Kongzem of Haense assembled in furs and cloaks in the Nikirala Prikaz as King Sigismund III held a sitting of the Royal Court, transcribed on this scroll in full. The matters raised by the Court included: I Conclusion of the Silver War II Reformation of the Knights of Haense III The Blubber Act's judicial reforms IV Appointment of the Aulic Envoy V Appointment of the Deputy Palatine VI News from Myrine VII Petition of Valtakossar Manfred Barclay VIII Appointment of the Lord Marshal Sigismund III: “What a privilege,” he began in his usual lofty drawl. If anything, Sig was one for theatrics, “that vy would all roll out of bed on such a frosty morning just to see me. Be welcome, all. The sitting of the Royal Court of 397ES is now,” he clapped his hands. “In session!” Kaustantin Baruch: “398, Get on with the times.” Sigismund III: “Suck my nuts. Perhaps we'll kick off with some good news, hm? Lord Palatine. Come before the dais.” ________ I Conclusion of the Silver War The Lord Palatine, Kaustantin Baruch, knelt before the Throne. Sigismund III: “A little crow told me, my lord, that vy made a trip to Savoy some months past. Something about … an offer to end the Haelunorian conflict ….” Kaustantin Baruch: “Quite so, vyr Majesty. The Royal Delegation met with the Prince of Savoy, in regards to ending the war against the Silver State in an Haeseni Victory.” Sigismund III: “My, oh my. Do regale us, then. What is the Silver State sacrificing to amend their honour?” Kaustantin Baruch: “Ten thousand minae to the Kingdom along with a public apology we are owed a decade prior.” Sigismund III: “And what did our efforts earn our friends in Urguan?” Kaustantin Baruch: “They shall yield the land encompassing Ando Alur along the Pale to the Grand Kingdom, our allies, for their injustice fer taking Urguani claimed clay.” Sigismund III: “The remains of their treasury, and a loss of land … Niet a bad fall of the cards. We canniet exactly condone godlessness nor their … culture, but this ought to serve as a lesson harshly learned. It is for their Canonist overlords in Savoy to do something about their godlessness. The ten thousand mina, I think, ought be shared among the soldiers who helped teach them this lesson. Ai. Dobry work, Palatine.” Kaustantin Baruch: “Of course vyr Majesty, Krusae Zwy Kongzem.” Rhys var Ruthern: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem.” Johann Barclay: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!” He'd echo after the Palatinwe. Dame Lynette Mendez: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!!” Margot Sofiya: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!” Sigismund III: “Like a bloody trigger word ….” Erwin Bishop: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem” Johann Ludovar: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!” Reynauld Gant: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!” Emelya Eloise Kortrevich: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!!” August Bishop: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!” Sebastian Bishop: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem.” Feodor May: “Krusae zwy kongzem!” Boris var Ruthern: “KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM!” Thomund Bishop: “Krusae Zwy Kongzem!” Sigismund III: “Alright, alright. We've plenty more to get through.” Adalia Anastasya Vas Ruthern: “…Krusae zwy kongzem” ________ II Reformation of the Knights of Haense Sigismund III: “Some of you may know I am a great admirer of our Knights. Admirer may be putting it lightly, even.” Those who knew the King since youth no doubt recalled his obsessive fascination with them. In these last months, Ser Karl Amador the Humble - and ai, he gave himself that name - has retired as Knight Paramount. Young Josef, perhaps, is demanding too much from him at home. Regardless, the sitting Knights and I have taken the opportunity to issue a reform to the Orders. The main change we seek to make is harkening back to our roots, and taking inspiration from the fables of much older times - namely, the Old Raev Bogatyr knights. In doing so, our chief change is that of squire training. I'll niet bore vy all with the details. Take a look at the missive for vyrselves. Mariya. Hand these out,would vy?” The King had his squire - Marie Vyronov - distribute the edict of the Knight's Table. Sigismund III: “The seat of Knight-Paramount will remain empty, for a time. I intend to work with the Meyster and Knight Martial to see these changes implemented, and a new Paramount chosen.” ________ III The Blubber Act's judicial reforms Sigismund III: “It was the consensus of our Royal Duma that our lawbook - the Haurul Caezk - was ah … a touch too bureaucratic.” Kaustantin Baruch: “Just a little.” Sigismund III: “It was written in the span of a mere month following our independence from the Orenians, and its authors had little time to give it a true Haeseni feel. Therefore, it was inspired by the Orenian laws at the time. “Now, though, our generation has the honour of finally changing all that. The Duma has put together a committee to review and rewrite the Haurul Caezk, led by the Duke of Valwyck … And now we have our first product. My lords and ladies, the way in which trials and justice is done in this Kongzem is changed. Kaustantin, send out the sl - ah, the Ayrians.” Kaustantin Baruch: “Indeed, the Ayrians.” The Blubber Act was distributed by Ayrian slaves. Sigismund III: “To put it briefly, the High Justiciar is now the foremost Jovenaar of our realm. We shall assemble a new bench of Jovenaars to serve beneath him, and one Jovenaar may hold trial over the accused … either by plea, wit, or combat. Our first step in fulfilling this Act, is to recruit these new Jovenaar, who need the approval of the Duma. “So. Does anyone present here fancy themselves a judge? An executioner, even?” Lord Johann Ludovar, Lady Margot Baruch, and Firr Otto Wittenbach raised their hands. Sigismund III: “Ohoooo. Vy did niet hesitate, young Johann, did vy?” Johann Ludovar: “Niet at all mea koeng. Ea have a passion for law and justice and wish to carry it with honor.” Sigismund III: “Three already. Heh. Very well. Take their names, Kaustantin. It shall be for the Royal Duma to determine if these three ought to wield the power to judge.” Kaustantin Baruch: “Indeed, ea shall, and there are more shy in this Court amongst vy, talk to me after it.” Sigismund III: “Think well on it, though, especially the two of you who are young. It's … nie always easy to decide who is right, and who is wrong. To decide who should live, and who should die. Well, onwards, then." ________ IV Appointment of the Aulic Envoy Sigismund III: “Firr Feodor May. Is that vy I spot in the wing?” Feodor May: “Da, that'd be me vyr Majesty.” Sigismund III: “Come before us.” Feodor May knelt before the Throne. Sigismund III: “It has been over a year now since the death of Komit Jan Kortrevich, and the Office of Aulic Envoy has been vacant ever since. As we discussed, Firr, the Office shall be vyrs.” Feodor May: “And ea shall serve it to the best of mea ability.” Sigismund III: “Hm. I believe vy. Best hit the ground running. I have nie doubt the Lord Palatine will have words with vy soon. Verrrrrrry well, there was to be one more Aulic appointment, but I've been informed that the people necessary have become stuck on the road in the spring snows. So, it shall wait for another time. That leaves us with one last matter before the Crown shall hear any petitioners ….” ________ V Appointment of the Deputy Palatine Kaustantin Baruch: “Ah do actually have an appointment of meaself, vyr Majesty.” Sigismund III: “Ai? Oh. Ai. That. The floor is vyrs, then, Lord Kaustantin.” Kaustantin Baruch: "Duke Eirik Baruch is appointed Deputy Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska, he shall serve this Kingdom and take onto some of the burden ea have.” Sigismund III: “I think that will do us nicely, Palatine. Lord Andrik Baruch, Otto Morovar, and Firr FIonn Castaway are due to be inducted into the Order of Queen Maya and the Lily, but they are niet here.” ________ VI Petition of Valtakossar Manfred Barclay Sigismund III: “On that note, the Crown invites any subject to come before it with petitions.” Valtakossar Manfred Barclay rushed into the throne room. Manfred Barclay: “Your majesty!” Sigismund III: “ … Lord Manfred. I thought a snowy morning like this would require your attention at the cabbage fields.” Manfred Barclay: “Give me a moment...I have returned from my cabbage farming to deliver a story.” Sigismund III: “A story? Nie better audience than the Royal Court, but vy had better make it good.” Manfred Barclay: “There was once a great man enlisted in the Haense Royal Army. His name was Fionn, nicht this man that has been the city steward but another Fionn. He was known by his brothers as Fionn the Boar. A man of great honour and bravery, he fought during both the Scyfling war and the Inferi war. Once he saved me from a certain spear that was heading towards my neck and another time he saved a certain Mackensen from assured death. He embodied the courage and commitment of St Karl himself, a saint that this soldier had committed himself to honouring. He sacrificed himself facing down a horde of demons that had been sent to destroy our home upon Arcas. There was another great man who did the same. His name was Amelot the Brave, another man who embodied the same virtues as St Karl. A man who is an ancestor of the Mondblume house that exists today.” Zodd Calliban: “Hey, I remember Amelot.” Manfred Barclay: “He faced down a giant toad, a giant ogre and plenty of demons. He too faced his death upona bridge that hung over several feet of pure flames. I tell you all these stories so that you remember the sacrifices that great men of the Haense Royal Army and the Brotherhood of St Karl have made. Even if their stories are nicht widely spoken about and discussed. Those two men are examples of the great people who have kept this nation free from opression and persecution.” Sigismund III: “I do niet think vy would make much as a Bard, Lord Manfred, but … Well. To Fionn the Boar, and Amelot the Brave, then" Otto August: “To Fionn the Boar and Amelot the Brave. Godan protect the BSK.” Kaustantin Baruch: “We would've perished if Fionn the Boar and Amelot the Brave did niet persist in their duty.” ________ VII News from Myrine Sigismund III: “The Lord Palatine has just delivered me some news. Is there a Knight here who would volunteer for a quest?” Dame Lynette Mendez: “Depends what it is, but of course.” Sigismund III: “Old reliable. Come forward, Dame.” Dame Lynette Mendez knelt before the Throne. Sigismund III: “Word has arrived that the Baron of Myrine was almost assassinated - the same Baron who hosted us only last month. I would have vy go to Myrine, and find out what happened. If the city remains under attack, offer the Baron the support of the Brotherhood.” Dame Lynette Mendez: “I assume people may volunteer to accompany me. Considering our success in the last quest you assigned me.” Sigismund III: “Naturally.” Dame Lynette Mendez: “Wonderful.” ________ VIII Appointment of the Lord Marshal Lord Ailred var Ruthern, Lord Marshl and Duke of Vidaus, arrived after being delayed by the snows. Sigismund III: “And lo' and behold, we are struck with a vision of providence. Vyr arrival is timely, vyr Grace. We were about to finish.” Ser Ailred var Ruthern: “How grand. Too late for petitions, is it?” Sigismund III: “Be welcome before the Throne, Duke of Vidaus, and speak vyr mind.” Lord Ailred knelt before the Throne. Ser Ailred var Ruthern: “Prevja, Vyr Royal Majesties. Ea bear bittersweet news. See, as ea watch over the court attendees here and the proceedings, it brings me back. It does. To the day that Heinrik called upon me, on this carpet some twenty years ago and asked that ea become his Lord Marshal -- the protector of this realm. Ea did niet want to protect this realm as much as ea wanted to shed blood in name of Mother-Ruska and Lady-Haense. To bolster this country's power and prove its capability in warfare is all ea wanted, yet war is a drought and without it, ea canniet prosper.” Sigismund III: “Niet a soldier of peace, hm?” Ser Ailred var Ruthern: “Of peace? Nie nie. Hence, ea ask that vy allow me to retire from vyr council, Koeng Sigismund. We ought to get a fresh face for our military, and that ea offer vy something where ea shall prove to be more valuable -- until the crack of war breaks, if ever. Ea ask to be retired as Marshal, but in place of it; vy allow me into vyr Marian Retinue, and as a Royal Advisor. Vyr family's blood to-be protected, and with my counsel afforded. It's been a true pleasure, Sigismund the Third.” Sigismund III: “And why is that, I wonder? That some men flourish when there is blood to be spilled?” Ser Ailred var Ruthern: “War is bound to happen, nie? It's clearly for a reason, one that ea oblige. So why niet for the glory of this country, for when the inevitable happens.” Sigismund III: “A reason … Very well, then. Ai. Vy will be relinquished of vyr post as Marshal, and remain welcome as Knight and Officer.” Ser Ailred var Ruthern: “My service, and my family's service is for vy and this Koengdom. That is all, Vyr Royal Majesty. Spasiba.” Kaustantin Baruch: “Vy are dismissed, the Seventieenth Lord Marshal of Haense, one that won a war in his tenure, glory and fame. Johann Barclay, vy are called to the dais.” Lord Johann Barclay, Count of Reinmar, knelt before the Throne. Kaustantin Baruch: “Vy have made quite a martial name for vyrself, is that niet right, Johann?" Johann Barclay: "I've done mein best, Lord Palatine.” Kaustantin Baruch: “Indeed, ea've seen that. Vy have served the Koengzem by leading the cadets, the next generation of Haense, in the the Brotherhood. Vyr name is niet only the thing encompassing vy, but experience, too. By the order of his Majesty, ea formally ask vy, are vy prepared for the burden of Marshalship? Ser Ailred can attest to how busy and hardworking it.” Boris var Ruthern: “Ea'd be blind, deaf, and simple if ea did niet see this coming.” Johann Barclay: “Ich am.” Kaustantin Baruch: “Very well, Johann Barclay, vy are to be the Eighteenth Lord Marshal of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. Vy shall be given the sash and uniform from vyr predecessor. Ea hope to see it fits on vy well. Both metaphorically and physically.” Johann Barclay: “I will keep tha gates of your Koengzem sealed, your majesty.” Sigismund III: “But vy shall niet falter. That is that, then. As far as Court goes, this was a most changing one. Vy have my thanks for coming. Go now in peace. Godani bless.” ________ IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

Public Safety Notice THE GHOST OF RICHTENBURG KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 17th day of Tov and Yermey of 397ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK Be warned all denizens of the Attenlund, and liegemen of the House of Mondblume, for a ghost has begun haunting the halls of Castle Richtenburg. In the late summer of 397ES, nobles and courtiers of the Kongzem assembled in Castle Richtenburg at the invitation of Lord Sigmar Mondblume, heir to the Barony. Towards the feast's end, a commotion was raised by Count Vladrik Kortrevich and Lady Margot Baruch, who claimed they had encountered a ghost in the Castle's library. Investigations carried out by other feast-goers - including King Sigismund III, Kaustantin Baruch, Eirik Baruch, Isabella Decaden, and Lord Sigmar himself - notions that the 'ghost' had been a mouse were dismissed when the party began to hear crazed voices. Once the ghost began to show signs of aggression, Lord Kaustantin ordered the Castle's inhabitants to evacuate. In light of these events, the Crown does decree the following: That Castle Richtenburg is haunted by a spirit of unknown origins and motives, though it appears volatile and dangerous. Initial reports indicate the ghost sounds similar to a spirit heard at the ruins of the Rubern during a BSK expedition. That Castle Richtenburg is therefore to be abandoned until the matter is resolved. That Lord Vladrik Kortrevich, Count of Jerovitz, has offered the hospitality of his keep to the House of Mondblume and residents of Castle Richtenburg until the ghost is exorcised. That the Knight's Table is to formulate an expedition to Castle Richtenburg to learn more of the ghost, and, if possible, expel it from the keep. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

WRIT OF AULIC APPOINTMENT SPEAKER OF THE DUMA KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 7th day of Tov and Yermey of 397ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK On this day, the Crown and all the Kongzem did witness the redemption of Lord Rhys var Ruthern in the Trelka Arena at the hands of Ser Flemius Rubens. Lord Rhys had been betrothed to the Lady Marie Ludovar, but neglected his oaths by promising love and marriage to the Aulic-Elephant Keeper, Firras Sanja. In seeking redemption for his lost honour and satisfaction for the wounded honour of the Lady Marie and Firras Sanja, Lord Rhys was made to box against the Marian Menace Ser Flemius until both women called for him to relent. Satisfied that Lord Rhys has learned the meaning of honour and what it means to be a proper Lord, the Crown is satisfied to entrust to him the role of Speaker of the Duma following the death of the Duke of Valwyck. The Crown eagerly awaits the products of his tenure. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

"Come on, Sigismund ... come on!" Sweat rolled down the King of Haense's forehead as he leaned over his desk. "Come on. You know this!" Search as he might, his mind did not yield the answer. With a grunt of frustration, he threw his head back and hissed. "What's the matter, love?" came the absent-minded call of his wife from the other room. "I - I can't remember," Sig moaned in defeat. "Does the red wine go with the beef or the chicken?" "The beef, dear." "Of course," he grumbled. He had known that -- his mind had just refused to remember. "Thank you, dear," he called back as he placed the bottle of red wine in the gift box labelled 'MYRINE', next to the roll of cured beef. He did not like admitting defeat like this, but at least he had not placed the red wine with the chicken. That would have been embarrassing.

IERSKA NOD VE NIKIRALA PRIKAZ NEWS FROM THE NIKIRALA PALACE KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 3rd day of Joma and Umund of 396ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK The Nikirala Prikaz is blessed on this winter to announce good tidings from the Royal House. I - Return of the King: King Sigismund III has returned from his pilgrimage to Kalden. Throughout days of prayer and contemplation for the safe birth of his child, King Sigismund and his friend, and Kaldenic guide, Lauritz Jensen. They first arrived in the port city of Nordhavn, touring the city’s canal and frequenting it’s popular coffee cafés, before proceeding to the Kaldenic Capital of Nyhavn, where they visited the Kaldenic Monarch, Lauritz I. While Lauritz Jensen opted to remain in Kalden, the royal Kaldenic twins, Crown Prince Ludvig Maxilian and Princess Royal Kirstine Agnes travelled to Almaris with King Sigismund. II - Birth of the Prinzenas: Godan has blessed the Royal House with the birth of a healthy child of King Sigismund and Queen Emma. Shortly after midday, her Highness Prinzenas Klara Elizaveta Barbanov-Bihar was delivered by Lady Adrianna Darkwood. The child, who bore traces of her mother’s hair and eyes, was proclaimed healthy following extensive medical examination by Lady Darkwood. The child is expected to grow out of infancy, and the Crown celebrates her safe birth by naming her titular Duchess of Baranya. III - Haurul Caezk Review Committee: Following the passage of the advisory bill to form a committee to Review the Haurul Caezk, the Crown readily accepts the advice and invites members of the Duma to invite themselves to participate on the committee. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

i think the 2nd one is pretty cool the 1st one has had a landscar notice on it for a long time. have you seen inside it? its like a parkour adventure map

Notice from the NIKIRALA PRIKAZ KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 10th day of Jula and Piov of 395ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK It is with optimism that the Nikirala Prikaz announces the second pregnancy of her Majesty, Queen Emma. Four months have passed since physicians first confirmed the Queen's condition, and the child is expected to be delivered just before the new year of 396ES. Both in anticipation and prayer that the child shall be born healthy unlike the late Prinz Edvard Arjen, King Sigismund III has announced that he shall depart on a pilgrimage to beseech Godan to bless the royal child with health and strength. On this Jula and Piov of 395ES, he accepts the invitation of Lauritz Jensen to accompany him to Kalden, across the sea, for a number of months. The King shall return on Msitza and Dargund in time for the birth of his child. In his absence, his Majesty provides for the following measures: I. Control of the Kongzem shall, as prescribed by law, be wielded by Lord Palatine Kaustantin Baruch alongside her Majesty, Queen Emma; II. Prinz Marus Aleksandr is charged with selecting a suitable bride from the Lifstala Season; III. Firras Sanja is to ensure Majid, the Royal Elephant, is well fed and entertained, in fulfillment of her duties as Royal-Aulic Elephant Keeper. IV. The Knight Paramount and Meyster Knight are called to assemble the Knight's Table and ensure all matters of quests and squirehood are in order for the King's return. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

Valkskej i ve Drezjir THE JADE PEACE Agreed on this 14th day of Vzmey and Hyff of 395ES Between the Kongzem of Hanseti-Ruska and the Jade State of Yong Ping VALKSEJ I VE DREZJIR ARTICLE I: NON-AGGRESSION The Jade State and the Kongzem do pledge, upon their honour, that they shall: I.I: Refrain from engaging in conflicts that engage in conflict which puts them at odds with one another, and no conflict between the peoples or Houses of either nation shall be condoned; I.II: Enforce responsibility on their peoples to obey the laws of the other when visiting their domain; I.III: Commit to the resolution of disputes diplomatically, and not through force of arms. ARTICLE II: TRADE The Jade State and the Kongzem do pledge, upon their honour, that they shall: II.I: Agree to trade specialty goods free of tariff. ARTICLE III: DECLARATION OF FRIENDSHIP The Jade State and the Kongzem do pledge, upon their honour, that they shall: III.I: Recognize their peoples ongoing friendship and commit to act in good faith with regards to their ally in geopolitical matters; III.II: Extradite peoples detained for suspected crimes to either the Jade State or the Kongzem for proper trial. ARTICLE IV: DURATION The Jade State and the Kongzem do pledge, upon their honour, that they shall: IV.I: Uphold the terms of this Peace for five years from the date of signing; IV.II: Allow for reparations for any violations of this Peace to be made within two years before the Peace shall be null and void. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera. Tianrui Ren, Zhu of Yong Ping Hirano Nanako, Chancellor of Yong Ping Erwin Bishop, Haenseni Ambassador to Yong Ping

Having been told he is no longer allowed to be depressed, Sigismund forces a weak smile for the affair.

very interesting take If that were to happen (again, I should say), how would the core systems of the server function? Obviously, the "nation" isn't contingent on the perks they get today - it's ultimately just a "community", the same kind that existed since the start of the server - but how does stuff like land ownership work in this system? I also agree that activity checks are the devil. I've actually petitioned WT to at least remove activity % because the system is just built to be min-maxed and actively discourages RPing outside of your nation and enforces practices like constant event spam. The last paragraph is definitely 100% true and makes a lot of RP inorganic.

what do you reckon the server needs to improve? That's a fairly broad question I know but I was talking about it earlier with some folks, and even with the potential for wars soon we kind of agreed that wouldn't fix all of the server's problems. So in an ideal world, what would you do James?

Statement from the NIKIRALA PRIKAZ KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 10th day of Tov and Yermey of 394ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK On this day of Tov and Yermey, the Crown announces the birth of Edvard Arjen Bihar, Grand Prince of Kusoraev and heir the throne of Hanseti-Ruska. Prinzen Edvard Arjen was born as the late-summer sun broke across the Rimeveld, and entered through the window of Queen Emma and King Sigismund in the residential wing of the Nikirala Prikaz. Following a night of labour and contractions, the babe was delivered by Prinzenas Petra Emma, sister to the King, just before breakfast prayers were to be held in the Basilica. Upon delivery of the infant Grand Prince, Prinzenas Petra noticed problems with the babe's vitals as she realized that Prinzen Edvard Arjen's rate of breathing was rapidly decelerating. Initial medical assessments were carried out by the Prinzenas, but the pace at which the babe's lungs weakened proved too great for anything to be done. Approximately seven minutes after his birth, Edvard Arjen Bihar, Grand Prince of Kusoraev, passed away in the arms of his aunt, Prinzenas Petra, before he could be held by his father. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

Veinir Bulava BESTOWING OF THE BULAVA KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by the CROWN On this 6th day of Vzmey and Hyff of 394ES VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK For generations, the Lord Palatine - and, on one occasion, the Lady Palatine - has served as the greatest power in the Kongzem of Haense, second only to the Crown themselves, and the position has evolved drastically over time before assuming its modern role as head of the Aulic Council. Throughout the storied history of the Office, which is fully documented in the Archives by the Royal Scribe, the appointment of the Lord Palatine has typically been reduced to a mere verbal announcement or, at best, a writ of appointment. In pursuit of championing the Sigismundic Era of culture and tradition in Haense, the Crown seeks to harken back to the days of King Stefan I for inspiration in establishing a proper ceremony to appoint the Lord Palatine befitting of the gravity of the Office. Thus, the Crown is pleased to codify the Bestowal of the Bulava (Naumariav: Veinir Bulava). BESTOWAL OF THE BULAVA I. The Bestowal shall always take place at sunrise before the Throne. II. The man, or woman, to be Palatine shall attend in the company of (1) their spouse, (2) the head of their family, and (3) any children they have sired. III. As dawn breaks, the man or woman who would be Palatine kneels before the Crown, and a gong is sounded to signal the following recital: Crown: Who is this who comes seeking the Golden Bulava? Palatine: I come as [name], of the House/family of [family name]. Crown: Why do you seek the Golden Bulava, [Palatine name]? Palatine: I seek it not for glory, nor do I seek it for honour, nor for power. Crown: Then why? Palatine: I seek it not for my own sake, but for the people of Hanseti and Ruska, so that I might answer Godan's calling to build for them a world in which harvests are plentiful, in which their might is assured, and in which the golden crow flies with pride. Crown: To do so is to live not for yourself, but for your Kongzem. To assume this duty is to the neglect of all others. Palatine: This I know. IV. The gong chimes again. The head of the Palatine's House or family steps forward and places a hand on their right shoulder as the recital continues. Crown: The burden of the Bulava weighs heavier than all others. Do you accept it, to the neglect of your family, their dreams, and goals? Palatine: This I know, and I accept. V. The gong chimes again. The Palatine's spouse, should they have one, steps forward and places a hand on their left shoulder as the recital continues. Crown: The hardships of the Bulava strike truer than all others. Will you weather them, to the neglect of even all else you hold dear? Palatine: This I know, and this I accept. VI. The gong chimes again. The Palatine's children, should they have any, step forward and place their hands on the Palatine's back as the recital continues. Crown: The demands of the Bulava tax greater than all others. Will you answer them, to the neglect of other dreams? Palatine: This I know, and this I accept. VII. The gong sounds one final time as the Crown approaches the kneeling Palatine with the Golden Bulava. Crown: These costs you know, and these costs you accept. To live as Palatine is to live for others, more than any Knight. It is to dream and work for others, more than any Priest. It is to fight for others, more than any Soldier. To live as Palatine is to sacrifice yourself. Palatine: This I know, and this I accept, without doubt, fear, nor hesitation. VIII. The Crown offers the Golden Bulava to the Palatine, and both the Palatine stands with the Bulava in hand, which remains held also by the Crown. Crown: Then you are named Lord/Lady Palatine of the Kongzem of Hanseti and Ruska. Your fate and life is woven to her people and Lady Haense and surely as mine. Be welcome in my Kongzem, truest brother/sister. IX. The Crown and the Palatine clasp forearms without bowing as a sign of mutual respect, and the Bestowal is complete. IV JOVEO MAAN His Royal Majesty SIGISMUND III by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, and Toruv, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Thurant, Venzia and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector of the Highlanders, etcetera.

Sigismund pops an aspirin in anticipation.