BenevolentManacles

John collects the fee for the use of his pleasure palace, using it to fund the election campaign of a local wonk.

Prince Magnus grips the hilt of his sword, toying with the pommel idly as his squire reads him the missive. Their small camp was quiet. The aging warrior drew his sword, gazing down at the finely tempered Pertnaxi steel. He grit his teeth at the thought of the weight on his shoulders, patriarch of such ancient and legendary blood. Would he carry on this line? Would he accept the previous patriarch charge, and take upon himself the mantle? “Harold.” The squire perked up, frowning as the squire still clasped the document tightly in his hands, crumpling the parchment a bit in fear of Magnus’ next words. “We ride for Helena. It is time we claim our rightful place.” The young man nods, going to dig out the dirt around the fire pit they had built and douse the flame with it. The boy had served him loyally, and once Magnus stole the treacherous Peter’s throne back for the true dragonsblood, Harold would be the first of the renewed Dragon Knights. ((PM TangoIsPointless#3486 to join revival of EoM))

John throws his hands in the air, having not been invited, his fear of missing out overtakes him. “How could they not invite us!” He berates his bastard grandson Edward for the next hour and a half. He embellishes stories of his youth, his senility deepening.

<> A Response to the Auditor <> Blessed Stefan Himmel, calling for others to join the Iron Crusade against the Tartar Horde, 1522 The City of Helena and the Emperor which rule it are unlike those capitals and sovereigns of the Empire’s past. There was once an era where men in plate armor screamed ‘Deus Vult!’ and savagely clipped the ears of elves. This era has ended, and not because we are less faithful, but because we are moreso. We are no longer a collection of feudal warlords shirking their responsibility to good faith in all peoples, as holy GOD and even the Ministry itself proclaims. Observe here from the Principles of the Faith still used today, written and codified by High Pontiff Daniel III, third son of Emperor John I. The Ministry of GOD is not a body by which persecution and prejudice is born. It shall accept all races, peoples, and faiths as children of GOD, and show them His affection through tolerance, charity, mercy, and love. It shall, however, accept that the heathen and heretic are without love for GOD, and will admonish them. As the Time of Troubles comes to an end, we look toward a new world order. However, our tradition and faith are key to our heritage and history, and defines the human race as a people. Should any witness sacrilege in the streets of Helena, reporting it to myself personally would ensure swift deliberation on the matter. Cardinal Boniface would have you believe that the Emperor would see tradition thrown away and GOD torn from his throne. The Emperor and I are both, in fact, devout Canonists. So why does Boniface perpetuate this lie? This is because the Auditor is short sighted and full of anger. He delivers childish letters and reports meant to incite hatred and demonize others. The priests of my youth such as Daniel VI and Johannes I, whom I met before they ascended, showed patience, restraint, good will, charity, mercy, and love. They were firm in their faith, but tactful in how they approached the impurities they saw. Their message was unity, not division. Due to Boniface’s message of hate, those on the fringes of true belief in the Canon are turned away. He has inspired disdain for clerical teachings in those who might convert, and dislike for the Ministry even in some of the most devout of Canonists, such as myself. None can say that the Church is as strong as it once was. If Boniface wishes to rectify this, his time would be better spent holding mass, spreading the good word, and recruiting acolytes to the Church. Helena is a blossoming city of prosperity, and the tolerance it practices is not the cause of it’s grand success, but a result of it. We will not return to hanging elves and clipping their ears, or beating women in the street. With regard to subpoenas; I will end my musings with something more suited to my office, with which to remedy a concern or two. Cardinal Boniface’s most recent letter mentions that only the Imperial Government can issue subpoenas. This is not true. Boniface was permitted to issue a subpoena for Joseph de Sarkozy because Duke Joseph had acted directly against him, incurring civil liability. However, should a man witness a crime, that does not make him the plaintiff, it makes him a witness. Such a man should bring evidence to the District Attorney of Helena, should the crime occur in Helena. Any case may be brought by the Solicitor-General of the Imperium, or any other representative of the Courts or the Ministry of Justice for potential prosecution and the issuance of a subpoena. All this being said, the Courts plan to implement a new system for civil suits in the coming months. His Grace, Sir John d’Arkent KCHE Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

John sneezes, spilling his whiskey on the missive.

John delights in the movement to see the livestock of Helena free from persecution, but sees fit to draft a short amendment to the ruling to ensure specificity, republishing the ruling with the amendment. AMENDMENT; For the purposes of this ruling, sentience shall be defined as wielding creativity, intelligence, sapience, self-awareness and intentionality.

The Opinion of the Court With regard to; REQUEST FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW OF THE STATUS OF WONKS AMENDMENT; For the purposes of this ruling, sentience shall be defined as wielding creativity, intelligence, sapience, self-awareness and intentionality. This affair is simple. It is described explicitly within our laws that slavery is illegal entirely. Slavery, acting to permanently confine, restrict or restrain a person after or through an abduction or purchase against one’s will, is illegal. A slave in name or de facto cannot lose his or her rights under Imperial law. A slave can legally commit murder and violence against his captor. From The Imperial Lawbook Therefore, it is not legal for men and women of the Empire to claim wonks, or other creatures sentient but culturally abstract, as their guardianships. It would be unjust to enslave elves and pagans just as it is to enslave these wonks. Failing to adhere to this would make it entirely legal for wonks to murder their masters, and potential chaos could ensue. On Consent There is no contract without the consent of the parties, cause of the obligation of agreement and object of agreement. Consent is the coincidence of the offer and the acceptance over the thing and the cause which constitute the contract. Minors may not consent to contracts, unless ruled otherwise by a magistrate. Consent is null and void if caused by error, coercion, intimidation or fraudulent misrepresentation. Fraudulent is not nullifying if used by both parties. From The Imperial Lawbook You cannot have one half of a law apply to pieces of a population when not explicitly described. In the interpretation of the Court, any form of servitude, ownership, or guardianship exclusive to a specific race, and not explicitly detailed by a mutual contract is illegal. Additionally, the Senate is explicitly forbidden from passing any such legislation. Legislation pertaining to or targeting a specific demographic or territory and not others. From the Edict of Establishment In summary; No man, elf, wonk, or other sentient races resident to the Empire, may be bound to servitude unless compensated properly, or bound by contract. No such contract can entail unreasonable terms, or be presented in such a way meant to take advantage of a legally inept signatory. All sentient creatures within the borders of the Empire have legal standing within the Empire. Only by Imperial decree can this standing be revoked or altered. His Grace, Sir John d’Arkent KCHE Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

John frowns at the report, recalling the girl, and Ester.

-=- The Imperial Courts -=- The First Session of the Imperial Senate, with John d’Arkent, Frederick Armas, Matthias Rutledge, Siegmund Corbish, Otho Helvets, Terrence May, and others. 1736. The Imperial Courts are a system by which the Emperor’s justice is administered. The Courts are empowered by the Emperor’s authority to rule on all cases throughout the Empire, divided into circuits and the Supreme Court. Here, we detail the functions of the Court and it’s structure. I. The Supreme Court The Crown v. Carrington, 1753. The Supreme Court is a triarchy of judges and the highest court in the realm. Supreme Court Justices are usually veteran justices, and are nominated by the Imperial Crown with Senate confirmation. The Supreme Court’s primary functions are as a court of judicial review, and an appellate court. The Supreme Court’s judicial review is a process by which the Supreme Court resolves conflicts that do not necessarily have a plaintiff and defendant. In order to initiate judicial review, the Court must achieve a simple majority vote. The Supreme Court is the appellate court of the Imperial Courts, whose verdicts are rendered by a simple majority on each charge presented. The Supreme Court also must elect to accept an appeal by a simple majority vote. Each Supreme Court Justice may also issue warrants for search, arrest and enhanced interrogation methods. Supreme Court Justices Chief Justice, Sir John d’Arkent Associate Justice, Joseph Adler Associate Justice, Jasper de Sarkozy II. The Circuit Courts Judiciary aspirants assembling for their interviews with Vice Chancellor Joachim Haas, 1745. The Circuit courts are the lowest level of the Courts, handling most cases in the Empire. Justices of this court are appointed by the Imperial Crown with Senate confirmation. Their rulings may be appealed to the Supreme Court. They may also issue warrants for search, arrest, and enhanced interrogation methods. Circuit Court Justices Justice Fiske Vanir Justice Eugene Bracchus Justice John Edward Pruvia III. Court Proceedings A Chelovek rebel being tortured with a legally issued Court warrant, 1748. INVOKING THE COURT Subpoena; a document filed by the Imperial Government to the Imperial Courts. A circuit court Justice may assign themselves any subpoena that falls under their jurisdiction, or otherwise the Supreme Court may assign a justice to a case under that justice’s jurisdiction. Petition for Summons; a document filed by a subject of the Empire to the Imperial Courts. Filed when and if any subject of the Empire (the Plaintiff) believes their rights or liberties have been infringed by another subject or office (the Defendant) of the Empire. This includes the Imperial Government. Request for Judicial Review; the document necessary to request that the Supreme Court enact its powers of judicial review upon the requestee’s described dispute. Judicial review does not require a trial but the Court may call for a hearing on the matter. The Supreme Court accepts a request for judicial review by a simple ⅔ majority. Request for Appeal; the document necessary to request an appeal to a ruling made by any single justice. The Supreme Court elects whether to accept an appeal by a simple ⅔ majority. ATTENDANTS OF THE COURTROOM Justice; the master of the Courtroom, and deliverer of the Emperor’s justice. They determine the sentence of the accused. In a Supreme Court case, all three justices collaborate on both the verdict and the sentence, and determine them by a ⅔ majority vote. Plaintiff; the one who accuses another of a crime and brings charges against them. They may have solicitors to help prosecute the case, but it is not an unalienable right. Defendant; the one accused of a crime with charges brought against them. They may have solicitors to help with their defense, but it is not an unalienable right. Solicitor; legal counsel set to either assist the plaintiff or the defendant based on their expertise on law. There are no restrictions on who can be a solicitor. It is not required that one has a solicitor, nor is it an unalienable right to have one. Jury; a body that, in circuit court cases, renders a verdict by simple majority. Every Circuit Court case must have a jury. A jury can consist of no less than five, but no more than nine, and must always be an odd number determined by the justice ruling on the case. A jury is selected from the gallery by lottery. COURTROOM PROCEDURE All rise for the honorable presiding justice, seating themselves when he does. The justice administers the creation of a jury, with a minimum of three jurors but as many as nine, though it must always be an odd number. The jurors are selected by lottery. All potential jurors roll dice, and those with the highest rolls are appointed as jurors. The prosecution presents the charges to the presiding justice. The defense pleads guilty or innocent to the aforementioned charges. The prosecution makes it’s opening statement. The defense makes its opening statement. The prosecution calls its first witness and examines them. The defense cross-examines the first witness. The presiding Justice dismisses the witness. The defense calls the second witness and examines them. The prosecution cross-examines the second witness. The presiding Justice dismisses the witness. The prosecution and defense continue taking turns calling witnesses. This continues until the Justice deems further witnesses unnecessary, or both the defense and prosecution have no more witnesses to call. The prosecution makes its closing statement. The defense makes its closing statement. The Justice orders the jury to a private room to deliberate and render their verdict. The verdict is rendered by a simple majority of the jury on each charge against the defense. Once the jury has their verdict(s), they privately give them to the justice. The Justice presents the jury’s verdict, and renders the appropriate sentences. Issued by the Supreme Court His Grace, Sir John d’Arkent The Honorable, Indra Kentri The Honorable, Waldermar Sarkozic

The Senate and it’s Candidates, Justices and Solicitors, Legal minds of the Empire, I write to you in the wake of the most recent case, the Crown v. Carrington, with numerous complaints on the nature of the system of justice we have thus far utilized and enacted. I have attempted to set precedence within the boundaries of the system we have established, but I have reached the limit of what I can do. I call for another justice reform, something creating a judicial body separate from the Cabinet, one which can operate without the constant oversight of the Solicitor-General in the organization of the courts, one that is malleable and can withstand the test of time. I invite you all to join me at my estate, where I hope to entreat you with my proposals and discuss yours with you in an effort to create a system following some key principles, outlined here. Malleability The Court requires flexibility with regard to which justices can attend which trials due both to a lack of justices, the nature of certain cases, and the constantly shifting legal landscape of the Empire. This flexibility can be regulated by the system’s internal hierarchy to ensure it is not overused. Independence The Court should not require other branches of government or individual persons to act for it to operate. This renders the Court incapable of regulating legal overreach by persons or bodies of government. Leadership The Court requires a distinct internal hierarchy with a definitive leader to establish Court-wide precedence, principles, and self-regulation in order to operate as an independent branch. Influence The Court should not be strangled by regulation from the other branches, and be capable of utilizing the mechanisms to enhance its flexibility with relative freedom. Accountability The Court should be held accountable for failures to self regulate and errors in the use of it’s system, through potential impeachment and removal by the Imperial Senate ((Contact me on discord to schedule. TangoIsPointless #3486)) Sir John d’Arkent, KCHE Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Justice of the Supreme Court

The Crown v. Carrington The Amber Cold, 1753 The opinion of the Court; Nobody can say that this case was a simple affair. Jasper Carrington was accused of murder of the High Pontiff through his own examination of the timeframes of the event and motives of the accused. Alas, the evidence presented in Court today was entirely circumstantial, as was the entire set of evidence the Solicitor-General collected. None of the collected evidence definitely proved that Jasper Carrington killed the High Pontiff, and therefore, the Court has no choice but to acquit the accused of the crime of murder. Rupert of Adria’s admission of guilt in murdering the High Pontiff in no way had a sway in the Court’s decision to release Jasper Carrington, and therefore, should evidence come to light that proves his guilt, the Court shall see to another trial on the matter with such evidence presented. Some would say that sentencing Rupert to death could have potentially been the killing of an innocent man, but no man who has the gall to admit to such a heinous crime deserves to live. For Jasper’s disrespect for authority and the Church, escape from prison, carousing with his elven wife, and general debauchery, he received his punishments. The Court is aware of evidence that potentially damages Rupert’s story of how he killed the High Pontiff, but maintains that such evidence does not prove definitively that Jasper killed the High Pontiff. The Court finds that Boniface of Belvitz’ behavior during the court and after to be dangerously close to the incitation of unrest, and reminds Boniface that representing the Ministry of GOD is to represent grace, benevolence and mercy. Running around the city square shouting that the Emperor’s justice and the Court’s justice are false and demanding that Jasper be treated as an assassin of the High Pontiff is plain and simple, terrible and short sighted behavior, along with being illegal. Should any witnesses or evidence come forward that alters the landscape of the accusations against Jasper, they should be presented to the Court for consideration of a retrial. In summary; Rupert of Adria is condemned to die for admission to murdering the High Pontiff. Jasper Carrington is fined 10,000 minas for escaping lawful imprisonment. Jasper Carrington is forced into military discipline in the form of a penal billet within the Imperial State Army for a period of four years for his unlawful union with an elf, general debauchery and defiance of the authority of the Church and the Imperial State. Boniface of Belvitz is found in contempt of court. Sir John d’Arkent, KCHE Baron of Selm, Duke of Sunholdt Justice of the Supreme Court

John bids 250 minas.

The Duke Sunholdt buys a new hat for court with the money that would’ve otherwise been spent on the Carrington’s service.

FULL NAME: Nyseia AGE: 207 RACE: Wood Elf RELIGION: Canonist REGIMENT OF CHOICE: 1st Regiment ((MC name)): TangoIsPointless ((Time zone)): PST

12,500 Bids the Duke

John did not know this, and if he would ever find out, he’d feel very embarrassed!

A letter arrives at the Imperial Capital for those addressed, bearing this seal; <--------------><--------------><--------------> <--------------> <--------------> <--------------> -=- The Duke Sunholdt’s Petition for the Imperial Dragoons -=- An imagined charge of the Imperial Dragoons, circa 1752 Your Imperial Majesty, Peter III @ARCHITECUS Your Excellency, the Archchancellor, Simon Basrid @Cracker Your Excellency, the Secretary of War, Sir Darius Sabari @Maur I write to you from my estate in Selm, gifted with a fine home, a good family, and many honors bestowed upon me by you and our Empire. For decades now, I have given loyalty and diligence freely to the Empire. However, through the honors and trusts you have bestowed on me, despite all I have given, I am found in debt to the Imperial Crown once again. Thus, this is what I offer to further my proof of loyalty and conviction to the wonder of the Empire, that for which my entire being exists. I will have fought for the Empire for thirty years coming this next year, and I wish to do so in a capacity different than my previous penmanships and bureaucratic feats of statesmanship. My son, Peter Baldwin, feels strongly as well. His duty, loyalty, good nature and strength of character are beyond what I could hope to have even in my theoretically aged wisdom. As such, you have seen fit to grant him the rank of Ensign, despite his youth and lack of experience. My other sons, Daniel, John and Alexander, are eager to fight for the Emperor, and for their home in the Crownlands. Other men have flocked to Selm, finding solace in the jovial nature of it, and relishing in our fledgeling and elegant equestrian tradition. In my estate, the native horses are quite strong and durable, as are its men. Therefore, I propose that the Barony of Selm be home to the Imperial Dragoons. This would be a medium cavalry unit, stabled and garrisoned in Selm itself, to serve as wardens of the countryside. I propose my son, Peter Baldwin, would be the commander, and myself, as your 30-year long servant, would have oversight in whatever capacity you see fit, should you see it fit. I will personally fund the entire endeavor wherever it is legal for me to do so, as well as providing the horses in the same capacity. Selm will never become a town or a village, nor do we seek to see it ascend beyond a simple Barony. We seek not to curtail the glory of our wondrous Capital and it’s 1st Brigade, so finely administered by the honored Sir Darius Sabari and the Captain Alren my son Peter tells me such excellent things of. We hope to widen the net of potential recruits to the Imperial State Army. The result, we hope, is not only the strengthening of Selm, a vassal of most supreme loyalty, duty, and trust, but also the widening of the net for recruiting men into a soldiery led by the leaders of such a vassal. I wish you fair weather, comrades, and hope to see you in my gardens soon. Sir John d’Arkent KCHE Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Justice of the Supreme Court Peter Baldwin d’Arkent Ensign of the 1st Brigade

-=- The Selm Periodical -=- A collaborative effort of the d’Arkent family. Volume II. A snake in the Bathhouse In the mid-afternoon this past day, the Baron of Selm and his daughters could be seen entering the square, inviting all from the Brothers of Malin to Brigadiers on duty to another fantastic day of carousal at the Palace of Selm, and its wondrous gardens. Despite protest from some less excitable denizens of the Capital, twenty men and women across the Empire began making their way to Selm estate. After a short tour of the estate for those who had not had it, the Duke John called for a swim in the spring. William Napier, Tiberius Barrow, Valandos the Elf, and others drank and caroused as others attended the bar on the terrace. Unfortunately, the joy of the pool ended when a potentially poisonous watersnake was discovered. Luckily the butler Francois has pledged to rid the estate of these persistent pests. Soon after, as the night continued, the Ladies Charlotte and Mary d’Arkent served drinks while the Duke and his son Daniel entertained King Andrik, Sir Tiberius, and Valandos in the library and his study, examining the murals and speaking politic. . As the evening progressed, and rumors of drunkenness on the terrace circulated amongst the fifteen or so guests left over, the Duke, his son Daniel, Sir Tiberius, and Jahan Basrid assembled for a wager on a game of Haeseni Chess. A game the Duke does not like, as one might see from the board state. Yet the game did not last, as it was taking far too long for anyone’s patience. They agreed to continue their wager on another day, and allowed Daniel Louis to keep their betting money on him. A questionable choice. Alas, another successful night in Selm ended with Duke John contemplating how to party harder. The Guest List; Duke Leopold Helvets Lord Markus Kortrevich Sir Terrence May Sir Tiberius Barrow Sir Alexander Pruvia Sir William Napier Jahan Basrid Richard Helvets Lady Natalya Devereux Lady Franziska Klara Andrik Tiberius Valandos the Elf, and his retinue Alaric Stafyr Adrian Orel Erik Berhal Sir John d’Arkent KCHE Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Justice of the Supreme Court

I LOVE korvic

-=- A Wonderful Night in Selm! -=- At the end of His Imperial Majesty’s court, members of the court were invited to partake in carousing in the Barony of Selm, a newly built pleasure palace across the River Ari. They were invited to celebrate the ascention to Knighthood of various honored guests, include the Duke John d’Arkent himself to Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Petrine Order of Humanity and the Empire. First, in two groups of ten, the family and staff of the Palace toured the estate with the noble guests, before retreating to the garden. The festivities began with drinks and hors d'oeuvres served by Francois, the estate’s butler, and Franz, a ward of House d’Arkent. Soon after, the Baron Selm invited his guests to the amphitheatre nestled between a babbling brook and a carefully carved stone, where a collection of Rhenyari musicians entertained the guests, soon also including the Emperor himself. Despite the Baron Selm’s request to see the Imperial Princess Anna Augusta and Duke Joseph Clemente dance during the minstrel’s traditional waltz, they refused entirely. Instead, Peter Baldwin, the Baron’s son, and the Imperial Princess Lorena Antonia took the dance. Interrupting the lovely dance, Valentina Ruthern appeared to the crowd, blackened of eye and bruised! The party was immediately dispersed to investigate the crime, yet not before a wonderful night of carousel and laughter! Only the first of many to come. The Guest List; Emperor Peter III Duke Joseph Clement Imperial Princess Anna Augusta Imperial Princess Lorena Antonia Duke Leopold Helvets Sir Konrad Stafyr Sir Terrence May Sir Tiberius Barrow Lady Valentina Ruthern Lady Chesna Kovachev Lady Natalya Devereux Lady Katerina Alimar Lady Anna Pruvia Lady Isabel Stafyr Hugo Wright Adrian Orel Sir John d’Arkent KCHE Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Justice of the Supreme Court

Sir John considers how expensive it would be to have the famed baker create large pastry sculptures.

The Opinion of the Court The Amber Cold, 1750 With regard to; HELVETS V. HELVETS The Court finds this subpoena’s intention to be subject to Judicial Review by the Eastern Circuit. Therefore it shall perform it’s duty in reviewing the case and delivering it’s ruling. Such judicial review requires no formal courthouse trial, except in circumstances when the Court determines it necessary. In absence of a Justice present in the Western Circuit, Supreme Court Justice John d’Arkent rules at the Circuit level for the purposes of this review. This review and ruling are, therefore, still subject to appeal to the Supreme Court. The following shall be dictated from the subpoena itself, with the Court’s commentary. “TABLE VI. On Patrimony, Obligatory Heirs of the non-Imperial and Gentry. The obligatory heirs are the male children and male descendants with respect to their parents and male ascendants.” “TABLE III. On Absence. Following a public absence, as decided by a magistrate or the Emperor, of eight years of more, it is the right of these parties to redistribute the patrimony of the absentee among his heirs.” In challenging the last will and testament of R. Kaedrin, Adrian I, which proclaims verbatim: “III. The Helvets Estate, being defined as the Duchy of Cathalon, the Varoche Palace, and the assorted intellectual and material properties hereafter referred to as the ‘Helvetii Vault’, are to be familial demesne of my sons Thomas Tancred, Peter Owyn, Leopold Guy, Robert Castor, Henry Frederick, and Richard Victor. IV. Until from amongst my sons one’s feats deems him worthy, as arbitrated by the attorneys of this will or a higher power, there shall be no Duke of Cathalon.” It is the opinion of the plaintiff that as he is, to the knowledge of the law (His elder two brothers having been absent for longer than eight years, thereafter declared deceased under Imperial law), the eldest surviving son of R. Kaedrin, Adrian I, under the system of Imperial law which considers patrimony and succession through the lens of cognatic male-preference succession systems, the peerage title of Duke of Cathalon and the associated privileges therein are his rightful property. The purpose of this claim is to arbitrate on that matter. The Court affirms the items expressed here as universal stipulations of the case. Additionally, it is the opinion of the plaintiff that the estate’s fourth provision is in violation of these principles of succession in addition to being arbitrary and indeterminable. A ‘feat’ in this instance is not clarified, with complex and flexible parameters, and can not be expected to hold up within a court of law. Nonetheless, even taking this wish of the defendant’s estate into account, an objective viewer would determine that the plaintiff meets this criteria, having: Fought and defeated, in the field of battle, the dread pirate Antonius, in the service of the 2nd Regiment of Foot (Also known as the Commonwealth Grenadiers). Other services and actions rendered in service to the Holy Orenian Empire in his capacity as an ensign of the Imperial State Army. The Court finds these ‘feats’ to be of no extreme nature, as countless men kill bandits, pirates, and serve the Empire every day of their lives. However, with no alternative heir present, the Court believes it inappropriate to have a title held by a dead man withheld from his sons, in a state of nonexistence which has no legal basis. Accordingly, it is the conclusion of the plaintiff that under fair and sensible law, the peerage of the Duke of Cathalon is his rightful property. The Court concurs. It is fair and sensible to award the requester the title Duke of Cathalon. In summary; A man’s will may not withhold a title in a state of non-existence or purgatory which has no legal premise or basis. Leopold Helvets shall be awarded the title Duke of Cathalon, by virtue of the Court’s interpretation of the law and the will of the deceased. Should the other potentially eligible sons reveal themselves to be alive they may appeal this ruling by the court for one year from the deliverance of this ruling. Sir John d’Arkent, KCHE Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Justice of the Supreme Court Ruling in absentia of a Circuit Judge

-=- House d’Arkent -=- -=- The House -=- Patriarch, Sir John d’Arkent, Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm, Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Petrine Order of Humanity and the Empire, legitimized son of Joseph Marna, Holy Orenian Emperor - Born 1699 (TangoIsPointless) His Wife, Vespira Helane d’Arkent, Imperial Princess, Duchess of Sunholdt, Baroness of Selm, daughter of Antonius Horen, Emperor of Man - Born 1710 (marinaemily) <-------------><-------------><-------------> The Line of John and Evie <-------------><-------------><-------------> A Princess of Curon, Evie Devereux and her two children were lost at sea approximately 1725, escaping persecution from the Pertinaxi reign at the end of the War of Two Emperors. Joseph Henry d’Arkent, son of John d’Arkent and Evie Devereux - Born 1720 (unplayed) Julia Esme d’Arkent, daughter of John d’Arkent and Evie Devereux - Born 1721 (unplayed) <-------------><-------------><-------------> The Line of John and Vespira <-------------><-------------><-------------> A Princess of the Holy Orenian Empire, and sister to Emperor Peter III, her marriage to John has been both lengthy and tumultuous. An unlikely union that brings the imperial lines of Joseph of Marna and Antonius I together. Despite often not agreeing, their undying love for their children drives them to create a united front, and a safer world for their future generations. Daniel Louis d’Arkent, son of John d’Arkent and Vespira Helane - Born 1727 Well tempered and jovial. A capable warrior. (Capace) John Sigismund d’Arkent, son of John d’Arkent and Vespira Helane - Born 1728 A rambunctious man with great martial prowess. (mcpancakes) Mary Philippa d’Arkent, daughter of John d’Arkent and Vespira Helane - Born 1729 Extremely ambitious and business savvy. (Ivorey) Alexander Joseph d’Arkent, son of John d’Arkent and Vespira Helane - Born 1730 Quiet, devoted, and eager to do good. (chaosgamer_) Charlotte Cecilia d’Arkent, daughter of John d’Arkent and Vespira Helane - Born 1733 A solemn woman. Determined and studious. (Koander) Peter Baldwin d’Arkent, son of John d’Arkent and Vespira Helane - Born 1734 Selfless, thoughtful, and dutiful to the extreme. (erik0821) <-------------><-------------><-------------> Other Lines <-------------><-------------><-------------> Henry d’Arkent, bastard son of Joseph Marna - Born 1701 (Happybirthday_J) George Leopold de Louvain, bastard son of Henry d’Arkent - Born 1736 (barducci) <-------------><-------------><-------------> Deceased <-------------><-------------><-------------> Ursula ‘Evie’ Devereux d’Arkent, daughter of King Wilhelm of Curon - Born 1702, Dead 1725 -=- Holdings -=- <-------------><-------------><-------------> The Duchy of Sunholdt <-------------><-------------><-------------> A titular title gifted to John d’Arkent by the Emperor Peter III for his undying service and lengthy tenures to the Empire. It has little historical significance besides the name being barely mentioned in Courlandic titles in some historical records. <-------------><-------------><-------------> The Barony of Selm <-------------><-------------><-------------> A landed title, created for and given to John d’Arkent by the Emperor Alexander I during John’s tenure as Archchancellor. It rests on the riverbanks of the River Ari, just across the river from the walls of Helena. It boasts Selm Palace, designed by Daniel Louis d’Arkent with assistance from his sister, Mary Philippa, and nominal assistance from the rest of the family. Selm also boasts expansive gardens, artwork, facilities,and is very much one of the finest pieces of architecture in recent memory. -=- Values -=- The House Words, “queti tempus,” translated to “no time to rest,” were chosen by John d’Arkent in his youth. Ironically, the flexio words can also be translated to “time to quit,” a veiled jab at the less successful. The House appreciates extravagance and eccentrics, finding them excellent mediums to display success. The House d’Arkent pride themselves on their industriousness, and respect merit and success above old noble names and blood. It is common to hear a d’Arkent disregard traditional noble etiquettes and marriage practices in favor of pragmatism. This is likely spawned of John d’Arkent’s personal disdain for such etiquettes, being born a bastard and unloved son of Joseph of Marna. It is common that the children and wards of House d’Arkent make competitions out of their goals. This fire of ambition and constant need to outdo each other come second only to an absolute respect for the family, and the desire to keep it safe and healthy. They consider their successes a gift, both from their family, and to it. -=- Wards -=- The House d’Arkent often takes in wards from distant relatives and other nobility and gentry throughout the Empire. These wards are raised as d’Arkents, on the principles of merit, competition, pragmatism, strong work ethic and pride in success. Aleksandr Vladov, son of Aleksandr Vladov (o_Grant_o)

The Opinion of the Court With regard to; REQUEST TO THE SUPREME COURT FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW CONCERNING CITY RIGHTS We shall examine, piece by piece, the matters put for by this request, and deliver the Court’s opinion. “The Municipal Reformation Edict of 1743 details that the now defunct Office of Internal Affairs appoints the City Clerk of Helena.” The Court finds this evaluation of the Edict’s intention to be accurate for the context of this review. “The requester believes that considering the Office of Internal Affairs was split into the Office of the Treasury and the Office of the Interior, the City Clerk should rightfully be jointly appointed by both offices and beholden to the City and Lord Mayor as an employee alone to curb excesses of unilateral taxation.” In the context of the appointment of the City Clerk, the Court finds this evaluation to be generally accurate. In the Court’s opinion, the division of the Office of the Interior into the Office of Internal Affairs and the Office of the Treasury warrants the dissemination of the prescribed duties of that defunct office. In this case, they would share the duty and responsibility to appoint a City Clerk, as well as any other duties the Office of Interior was originally prescribed. If this arrangement were to be found ineffective, a bill by the Board of Ward Liverymen would be capable of remedying this by amendment to this section of their charter; The Clerk of the City of Helena is chosen by the Secretary of Internal Affairs for a tenure of four years. “The Gradic Rights had also enumerated that the populace of Helena shall dictate the taxation of the city as beholden to the Crown’s demands for tithes and taxation.” The Court finds the Rights of the City of Helena by virtue of the imperial assent given at the time of it’s passing, to be wholly applicable in this context. The Crown makes a request for taxation, and the city collects it, as described here within the Gradic Rights. VII. Hitherto does the populace of this town have the right to collect tax, tolls, and impose fees. “The requester believes it necessary that the Livery Board of Helena should be the regulatory body for all laws concerning taxation except for those explicitly outlined by the Municipal Reformation Edict pertaining to the City Clerk’s office, including but not limited to property appraisal.” The Senate is explicitly forbidden from legislation pertaining to a specific region, as described here; Legislation pertaining to or targeting a specific demographic or territory and not others. Therefore, the only body with the legislative authority to reform taxation of the City of Helena is the Livery Board of Helena. Thus, where the City Clerk is appointed by executive office(s), the Clerk is beholden to the legislation drafted by the Livery Board of Helena when performing the Clerk’s duties on that body. The Clerk does not operate at the executive discretion of the office(s) which appointed the Clerk in the instances where it conflicts with the government of the City of Helena, and the laws passed by the bodies that govern it. The Court’s opinion, in summary; When a defunct office’s duties are divided amongst new persons or bodies of government, any duty or responsibility not explicitly detailed are not inherited by those offices. They are instead completely abolished. In this case, no new legislation detailing the assignment of those duties exists. Despite lacking legislation detailing the duty, the Office of the Treasury has been appointing the City Clerk. The Court finds this action illegal due to the above ruling. In order to rectify this error, the Court rules that the City Clerk shall be selected by unanimous decision of the Secretary of Treasury and Secretary of the Interior. The City Clerk is beholden to laws passed by the Board of Ward Liverymen, and not the Senate. The Imperial Crown has the absolute right to impose taxes, duties, imposts and excises on the City and citizens of Helena through the Office of the Treasury. The City of Helena through the Board of Ward Liverymen has the absolute right to determine the methods by which taxation is collected, through the Gradic Rights. Taxes are collected by the City of Helena through the Board of Ward Liverymen on behalf of the Imperial Crown. His Grace, John d’Arkent Duke of Sunholdt, Baron of Selm Justice of the Supreme Court The Honorable, Waldemar Sarkozic Justice of the Supreme Court The Honorable, Indra Kentri Justice of the Supreme Court

Full Name of Man - John d’Arkent Date of Birth of Man - 1699 Name of Woman - Vespira Helane Date of Birth of Woman – 1710 Location of Ceremony - Imperial Chapel Date of Ceremony (Year) - 1727 Name of Clergyman who performed ceremony - Forgot his name