Draeris

The scars, the pus, the painful breaths of Ser Brandt Barlcay: it bothered His Holiness profoundly. As the maimed Knight shyly returned the helmet onto his head, Owyn III couldn't help but to scan his Knight-Regent & Knight Komnenos for their responses. Was he the only one that could weep for his fate? A man merely doing his job for his people somewhere in the nation of Norland, to be punished so severely: to be maimed beyond one eye escaping the wall of bandages? "GOD.." he whispered to himself, standing before the Knight and his own "What must I do to help this man, GOD?". As his eyes were closed, looking upwards, he came to a realization. What would follow was the blessing of Ser Brandt Barclay. His Holiness, trying to hide his nauseous feelings at the sight of the acid-scorched skin and foul smell beneath his armour, would see through until the end of the ceremony. Although Owyn III would be clinking Whiskey glasses with Maer Barbanov shortly after: discussing chess and the alcoholic tendencies of his kinfolk, he couldn't get his mind off what he had seen. It made him feel perversely privileged somehow: standing amidst laughter and drinks in fine robes, as that Barclay now walks home. Not just weighed down by his armour that hides his sorry fate, but by what seemingly felt as punishment for a job well done. As His Holiness finished the document in his office in Providence, he couldn't quite get himself to grow at ease. He would linger on doubts about what he should ask Cardinal Reinmar when he sees him once more, and if it is appropriate to inquire of one's kin like that to begin with. PAPAL BRIEF OF 1803, 356 ES Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, Jorenus @Gusano @LithiumSedai@dmitris @Piov @GoodGuyMatt OWYN III, pontifex maximus, servus servorum Dei, episcopus Sancta Sedes, Wishes to inform its congregations of a most productive meeting between His Holiness the High Pontiff Owyn III & Maer Barbanov on matters of inter-jurisdictional cooperation and the mutual expansion of the cultural sector in Karosgrad. The Holy Mother Church is pleased with the direction of Maer Barbanov’s reforms, which greatly adds to the representation of our clergy and their congregations into the cultural landscape of Hanseti-Ruska, but also allows for more direct contact between GOD and His Flock. Outlines have been agreed upon where the Haeseni dioceses shall, with His Holiness personally involved, coordinate a greater effort to celebrate saints & integrate the Haeseni clergy into the cultural discourse. His Holiness hopes that through his diligent representatives in Karosgrad, this shall lead to a direct increase of faith-related festivities & events in the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. The Archdiocese of Jorenus is embarking on a fundraising campaign throughout Karosgrad to increase revenues for the ministries of the Church. The Archbishop and the clergy will dedicate a series of speeches and the production of religious sacramentals to raise the budgets for future operations and travels. His Holiness shall carefully observe the proceedings of this endeavor, as his High Pontificate aspires to establish an inter-diocesan economic system at a later stage. His Holiness had furthermore blessed Ser Brandt Barclay after discovering that he had been disfigured by acid in a mission in the nation of Norland. Having prayed to St. Tylos, Kristoff & Karl and showered by holy water: it is hoped that Ser Brandt Barclay, a valiant Knight of Hanseti-Ruska, shall find a speedy recovery of his torment in the flesh and the soul. His Holiness would like to remind the people of Hanseti-Ruska that any wounded or tormented folk, physically and spiritually, are free to seek counsel and healing from the Holy Mother church. His Holiness furthermore wishes to express its gratitude to the royal Household of Barbanov and the civilian government of Karosgrad for their efforts in thawing a relationship once frozen between Holy Mother Church & Kingdom. GOD smiles upon those that make great effort to bring His Word closer to the common man. It is hoped that one day, His Holiness could show his Haeseni colleagues and friends the splendour of Providence himself in return. Te Deum. PONTIFEX MAXIMUS OWYN III

"My Vice-Chancellor does not disappoint." His Holiness Owyn III would smile, reading over the thesis in his chambers beside the Basilica of Ex. Godfrey " I shall praise him when I see him again: a magnificent author in the maker!"

"A public chessboard?" he'd look at Cardinal Pelagius @Julio ツ, smiling at the memories of playing chess in Owynsburg "A little bit of Kaedrin right here in Haense: who would've thought?" As His Holiness walked out of the now repaired Karosgrad Basilica with the Cardinal by his side, he would look at a HRA patrol passing by "I wonder if their Chess skills match that of the Albarosan clergy.. If only we had a tournament to answer this question."

"It is always important to maintain a sense of community. While Haense might be an intimate flock already, Guilds shall only strengthen this bond." His Holiness spoke with a soft smile, reading over the missive with great curiosity "I would like to meet this Maer soon."

PRIMUS BULLA AUREA JORENUS The First Golden Bull of Jorenus OWYN III, pontifex maximus, servus servorum Dei, episcopus Sancta Sedes, Weeps at the sight of this civil unrest instigated by the Cyril Halcourt sympathizers before the Basilica in Karosgrad. It is unfortunate that the violent protestors found the need to damage Karosgradian property, endanger the lives of the Clergy & that of His Holiness Owyn III. They had unfortunately attempted to do the same to the Basilica of Ex. Godfrey in Providence. But the violent rioters were quickly quelled, and order was restored in both cities. And so we shall march onward, without further dividing resources and attention to the astray few with addictions to dramatics. The High Pontificate of Owyn III shall continue to execute its long overdue reforms to the Holy Mother Church and the state of its clergy. With conclusion of His Holiness’ papal tour of Hanseti-Ruska, we look onward to Providence and its many subsidiary congregations. Te deum. TABLE OF CONTENTS I). Inquiry into the immolation of the Auditor-General II). Verdict in the Halcourt Trial III). Expressions of Gratitude IV). Further reforms to the Palatinate Guard V). Preparation for expansion of ecclesiastical rites SECTION I. INQUIRY INTO THE IMMOLATION OF THE AUDITOR-GENERAL The Holy Mother Church weeps to find the violence of Karosgrad to have reached one of our dear colleagues: Goren of Jorenus, who was suspiciously burned in the Cathedral of Providence after agitators had attempted to break in. His violent passing serves as a stark reminder to the clergy of the Holy Mother Church of the division that has consumed our human race: one which stems from the idolization of power and the entitlement to superiority, when GOD has not ordained them to wield it. As for a general view that the Mother Church is discredited by any judgement made - they may as well say that Owyn’s sword of flame is discredited by God’s need to give it to him. When the world goes wrong, it proves that the faith remains right. The Church remains justified, not because her children do not sin, but because they do. We will be closely working with the Imperial State Army to find the violent protestors who are responsible for this excess, and will plan a honourable funeral for our diligent auditor as soon as circumstances allow us. GOD smiles upon thee, Goren of Jorenus, may the Seven Skies give you the peace finally deserved. SECTION II. VERDICT IN THE HALCOURT TRIAL The Auditor of the Tribunal of the High Pontificate of Owyn III has, after an extensive trial against the accused schismatics Father Dima & Cardinal Cyril, found them not guilty of the charges presented against them. Although this may contradict the popular demand of our beloved Clergy: we must not let personal desires get in the way of ecclesiastical justice. In accordance with the findings of the late Auditor, these men remain in full communion with the Church. We remind them, however, that rebukes against the High Pontiff must be made in acknowledgement of the Papal Bulls His Holiness has made and the College of Cardinals that exists now, not the College before the election, and that a unanimous vote of these Cardinals must be made before any declarations of sede vacante are made. As such, these men and their party are reminded to not question the legitimacy of the High Pontiff or His Bulls. Further riots, agitations, and attempts on the life of His Holiness and other clergymen shall also not be tolerated. SECTION III. EXPRESSIONS OF GRATITUDE The High Pontificate of Owyn III is grateful for the role of various organizations in quelling the outrageous riots which violently caused the death of one of our own, and had endangered a large number of Haeseni citizens in the Karosgrad Basilica. First and foremost, the Holy Mother Church expresses its profound thanks to the Marshal of Hanseti-Ruska Manfred Barclay @Coolcod77, and the valiant soldiers of the Haeseni Royal Army, who intervened when the protestors attempted to slaughter the clergymen inside of the Basilica. In hindsight, their courage and servitude directly led to the survival of His Holiness the High Pontiff. The Secretary of War Peter d’Arkent @ErikAzog & The Imperial State Army furthermore deserves our profound gratitude for aiding in our investigation regarding the violent murder of our Auditor-General, and the pacification of rioters at the Basilica of Ex. Godfrey. Their impromptu response was, much like that of the HRA, excellent and swift. The Palatinate Guard under the valiant leadership of Knight-Regent @LithiumSedai stood ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for His Holiness, being for a while the only line of defense between the unarmed clergy and the rioting mob. Despite being a subject to consequential reshuffles and reforms, it managed to operate on a standard never seen before. The High Pontificate of Owyn III is greatly pleased by this. Monsignor Robert de Bourdon @Tiresiam deserves individual praise for taking a crossbow bolt for His Holiness, jumping before him in hopes to avoid a tragic fate in the Karosgrad Basilica. A man unarmed and untrained unlike his military colleagues, showing the servitude and determination of a hardened soldier. GOD smiles upon thee, Monsignor de Bourdon. The faith is indebted to countless other unnamed souls, such as Albrecht Barclay @kipps and Ser Boris var Ruthern @GMRO, who stood at leal attention aside Queen Isabel to preserve her from harm in the face of the growing violence. There is an admirable piety in those who have a loyalty to their liege-lords, as all Canonist monarchs rule dei gratia. SECTION IV. FURTHER REFORMS TO THE PALATINATE GUARD Having corresponded with the current and former members of His Holiness’ Palatinate Guard, The Knight-Regent presented a report on the necessary reforms and current ailments of this crucial organization. The High Pontificate of Owyn III shall, in a future Bulla Aurea, establish and present all these reforms in a concise manner. As of now, the High Pontificate of Owyn III has discontinued the old uniforms of the Palatinate Guard in favour for locally tailored ones: [!] New uniforms of all ranks within the Holy Palatinate Guard. We shall furthermore look to re-establish the Palatinate Guard with a new mandate, leadership structure and training strategies as suggested by the Knight-Regent. Any current member of the Palatinate Guard is invited to add onto the existing report, and provide feedback to His Holiness directly. The High Pontificate of Owyn III will greatly reform the ranks of the Palatinate Guard as well, reshaping them in anticipation of the Secundus Bulla Aurea Albarosa. As of now, the leadership of the Palatinate Guard shall consist of: Captain Commander Theophilos @dmitris Knight-Commander, Quartermaster Nicholas @Burnsider Knight-Captain Avtria @Viggen92 Knight-Captain Tirilan @Jameson_h SECTION V. PREPARATION FOR EXPANSION OF ECCLESIASTICAL RITES The violent conclusion to the first Diet of Bishops petitioned by Archiepiscopus Pelagius of Albarosa is regrettable, and has delayed His Holiness’ wishes to restore the ancient Ruskan Orthodox rite, and in other Dioceses their own distinct cultural rites. We shall immediately seek to reschedule a new Diet of Bishops where, among the expansion of ecclesiastical rites, we shall continue the warranted discussion on our neutrality as an institution, and the waning cultural relevance left behind by preceding Pontificates. The practice of the faith is but larger than one rite, and larger than the entire world. A preservation of right worship of the faith keeps those worshipful pious as guardians of the truth. As long as these rites remain without theological heterodoxy, increased practice of the faith is only a boon to the heavens. Considering this, we wish to unequivocally compliment the dioceses of Jorenus, Henrikev & Valwyck for their administrative diligence and cooperation with this theologically challenging task. THE HOLY MOTHER CHURCH OF THE CANON Under GOD, maintained by His Holiness Owyn III THE SEPTARCHY @argonian AILRED CARDINALIS REINMAR From the Diocese of Valwyck Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska @Caranthir_ AMADEUS CARDINALIS NESCIA From the Diocese of Nescia Trade Nation of Sutica @Piov BENEDICT CARDINALIS OF JORENUS From the Archdiocese of Jorenus Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska @GoldWolfGaming MANFRIED CARDINALIS PROVIDENTIA From the Archdiocese of Providentia Holy Orenian Empire @Julio ツ PELAGIUS CARDINALIS ALBAROSA From the Prince-Archbishopric of Albarosa Municipality of Redenford @Publius CYRIL CARDINALIS ST. PUBLIUS From the Diocese of Hyspia @Harald JOHAN CARDINALIS VUILLER From the Diocese of Hyspia THE CURIA THE VICE-CHANCELLOR Manfried Cardinalis Providentia @GoldWolfGaming THE PONTIFICAL AUDITOR Monsignor Vicary Armande @frill THE PONTIFICAL SECRETARY Benedict Cardinalis Jorenus @Piov THE PRELATE OF THE CLERGY Alfred Episcopus Henrikev @repl1ca THE PRELATE OF THE SISTERHOOD Mother Roxalana @Axelu THE PONTIFICAL CHAMBERLAIN Carlos Clericus Hyspia @Proddy THE KNIGHT-REGENT Armand-Philippe Talraen de Rennes @LithiumSedai MONSIGNORS Msgr. Ed Myre of Oren @Old Man Boiendl Msgr. Fiske Vanir of Haense @Sander Msgr. Vicary Armas of Nescia @frill Msgr. Adelric Barclay of Reinmar @MadOne Msgr. Robert de Bourdon @Tiresiam CANONIST DIOCESES ARCHDIOCESE OF JORENUS, encompassing the entirety of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, shepherded by Benedict Cardinalis Jorenus @Piov. DIOCESE OF HENRIKEV, encompassing the entirety of the Capital City of Karosgrad, shepherded by The Right Reverend Bishop Alfred of Henrikev @repl1ca. DIOCESE OF VALWYCK, encompassing everything beyond the Capital City of Karosgrad, shepherded by The Right Reverend Bishop Otho of Valwyck @Drumoldth. ARCHDIOCESE OF PROVIDENTIA, encompassing the entirety of the Capital City of Providence, shepherded by Manfried Cardinalis Providentia @GoldWolfGaming. PRINCELY-ARCHDIOCESE OF ALBAROSA, encompassing everything beyond the Capital City of Providence, that is within the Holy Orenian Empire, shepherded by Pelagius Cardinalis Albarosa @Julio ツ. DIOCESE OF HYSPIA, granted to the people of Hyspia, shepherded by The Right Reverend Bishop Fransisco of Hyspia @Timer Spibs. DIOCESE OF NESCIA, encompassing the entirety of the Trade Nation of Sutica, shepherded by Amadeus Cardinalis Nescia @Caranthir_. “Though the Spring flower withers and the fruit of the tree falls to the ground, My Word lasts onto the eve of the world, and the fruit of virtue cannot rot.” - Scroll of Virtue, 4:2. GODANI JEST WIELKI Sanctitas Pontifex Maximus OWYN III [!] A seal displaying Ex. Owyn & Ex. Sigismund seals this Golden Bull.

ohh my god

GOD TESTS US ALL THE SORROW OF OWYN III @LithiumSedai @frill “I wish to author a eulogy.” the fatigued Pontiff looked at the broken window of the Karosgrad Basilica, flanked by his Monsignor & Knight-Regent, “a man of true stature has violently passed, and done something despicable before GOD in his final moments... Although I cannot understand why he would do such a thing.. Did his demons finally get to him? I must defend his honour posthumously.” “I would advise against that, Your Holiness.” Monsignor Vicary jeered, folding his hands behind him as he joined His Holiness’ gaze at the damage, “Lord Helvets was a dear friend to you, but also a criminal in the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. Stirring the living with the language of the dead wouldn’t be… helpful, Your Holiness. Private prayer and a night-candled psalter would be the most you should venture. I am sure Helvets’ soul would dislike being awakened from his death by those who happen to still be walking about.” The Knight-Regent Armande pouted as he looked at the expression of Owyn III, who coldly blinked. With a soft clearing of his throat, he spoke: “I must agree with Monsignor Vicary, although I do pray for your strength in overcoming this tragedy, Your Holiness.” “It breaks my heart that I cannot pen a defense of a longtime mentor, if not a father.” Owyn III sighed, his head now lowered “After the passing of Bishop Erasmus, he was the only one to defend me through it all... My true Paladin, a man that made the loss of my homeland bearable by... making me feel like home.” Monsignor Vicary darted his eyes at His Holiness’ face, anticipating the flowing tears of a man in pain. Nothing but a fatigued and emotionless gaze would escape the Pontiff’s face however, as he looked at the mirrored floor of the Basilica. Both the Knight-Regent & Monsignor would stand quietly, minutes would pass without a word being spoken. To Owyn III, once Laurence Pruvia, it all felt like a test. The more he had ascended towards success, the more loss he had endured. His entry into adulthood had cost him his one and only temporal love in life, a childhood sweetheart that could not overcome her demons in the spring of her youth. His promotion to Premier was paired with the death of his protége and confidant Erasmus von Gertreide, who could not handle the burden of leadership by his side: and found his demise during a planned vacation by the sea. The end of the Arcasian era would then mean the end of his Commonwealth of Kaedrin, for only the start of his Pontificate to be marred by the death of his last friend left. Richard Victor Helvets, a man that had dirtied himself in the spit and mud alongside himself. The only man beyond GOD that he could find solace in, who could understand his complicated heart. “The man has passed without a proper burial: without a tombstone to evoke remembrance. He, a man made for reverence, shall be forgotten in the temporal plane. Is this GOD’s punishment?” he would look up, as Monsignor Vicary straightened his necklace “Your Holiness: are you a soul with a body, or a body with a soul?” Both the Knight-Regent and His Holiness would look up in surprise, the latter even perking a brow: “Eh. I-I suppose a soul with a body, perhaps to my own misfortune.” To that, the Monsignor softly smiled “Why must we weep over the loss of the body, if the soul moves on to greener pastures? He is out there Your Holiness, his spirit shall live on for eternity.” “Of course.” the Pontiff nodded once “I pray for his entry to the Seven Skies, and for him to receive a rest long overdue. Yet is it sinful for me to remain dismayed, as I miss them at my side physically?” “No...” the Knight-Regent would interject “Such is merely human. Do not forget that GOD allows you to be human too, Your Holiness.” The Monsignor nodded towards the Knight-Regent, both looking at each other with faint sadness in their eyes. The Pontiff, who felt increasingly uncomfortable being candid about his feelings, retracted back into his fortress of indifference. “Right.” he suddenly spoke “I shan’t write an eulogy then. But do pursue his body, Knight-Regent: If GOD lets me, I wish to bury him in Redenford.”

FIRST HOMILY OF JORENUS By Sanctitas Pontifex Maximus OWYN III AS TRANSCRIBED BY BENEDICT ARCHIEPISCOPUS JORENUS IN THE CAPITAL CITY OF KAROSGRAD, HANSETI-RUSKA THE TRANSCRIPT EDITION Dear Royal Majesty King Josef ‘the Liberator’; The most esteemed houses of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska; & my beloved Haeseni colleagues from Jorenus, Heinrikev and Valwyck. As St. Henry Otto Barbanov once built Alban from the snowy wastelands of Tahn, so did the vigilant houses of Hanseti-Ruska construct Karosgrad. A shining beacon that represents the perfect way for a human: free from the brick lemon crates modernists call ‘a home’, yet tastefully innovated from the olde settlement of Reza & New Reza respectively. It is GOD’s great benevolence that we stand in a metropolis on top of frosty wastelands, housing the largest congregation of His Institution, where a man of GOD feels right at home. Many houses, from Amador to Barclay, Barbanov to Vanir, have been invaluable to the expansion of our faith in this Highland nation. But it is not them alone that we value. For it is the common man that attends every sermon, speaks to our clergy & acts as a good Canonist that makes our Faith strong. It is the diligent doctor in the Royal Clinic, patching up the wounded. It is the soldier, once a proud bannerman of St. Karl, that defends his family at home. Modernists may mock you, and claim that your society is simplistic. Yet even if such is a case, it is your society that reigns the most serene from all: standing as a bulwark of morality and our faith in times of rampant decadence & secularism. It is important to not take your moral bounty for granted, as not all of mankind’s realm knows the warmth of brotherhood & family as you do. Not all Sovereigns, commanders & representatives can count on the loyalty and involvement of their jurisdictions, like those in Haense can. GOD rewards these blessings to societies architected to be pious and puritan. It is not a coincidence, but a divinely natural order of things, that societies of tradition find their roots deeper and their happiness more profound. Only GOD is eternal. To worship anything temporal is to gamble the existence of your nation and people on something that is fleeting, temporary & subject to decay. For our chronicles have not forgotten the gravestones of peoples that had abandoned GOD, such as the Lotharingians and Owynists before us. Believe only in the strength of GOD and the traditions you cultivated beneath him, and you shall avoid a similar fate. You, pious citizens of Haense, uphold the spirit of St. Henry to this very day. And as long as you allow GOD to rest in your hearts, and see your righteous Crown as kindred of my own, shall your future remain promising and bountiful: like the fields of wheat he gave to those that starved before him, like the nation he helped his cousin King Stephan maintain. Although GOD wept when our united Humanity split into two, he can at least find solace in the purity of your aspirations as a distinct Highlander people. It was never your destiny to be stripped from your roots, as it was never GOD’s plan with an united Humanity to make them one identity. Your divine right to live as a self determined people is sealed by the Crown His Holiness James II granted your sovereign, and your forefathers, many of which bestowed with Sainthood, who gave life and limb for the survival of your kinfolk. When you find your way of life threatened once more: look up to the Crosses that decorate your chapels and living rooms, remain unwavering in your pride and faith. Remind yourself of the likes of St. Henry, Karl & Kristoff: who each gave their own ultimate sacrifice to preserve something greater than themselves: the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. Te Deum. GODANI JEST WIELKI Sanctitas Pontifex Maximus Owyn III [!] A seal displaying Ex. Owyn & Ex. Sigismund seals this Homily.

"How blessed for a sovereign to interact in such a fashion with her subjects." High Pontiff Owyn III would comment, reading the report after the royal wedding " Hopefully a trendsetter, and something I could perhaps learn from?" he turns to his Monsignor Robert de Bourdon @Tiresiamand nudges him to hand him his paper.

"You can't unsubscribe from GOD." said Owyn III's mailman, shoving a copy of this letter through the window he had broken of Keaghen's house.

AB ABSURDO FROM ABSURDITY A RESPONSE TO THE SCHISMATICS BY HIS HOLINESS OWYN III In today’s world: it has become an unfortunate pastime to constantly have to divide your attention, resources & manpower to a handful of similar individuals that fester certain circles in the societies of mankind. These are men and women astray from GOD, devoured by their narcotic-esque addiction to schemes and dramatics. They construct nothing in mankind’s world, and only exist because of the benevolence of their benefactors that they are sycophants to. In the shadow of those truly diligent and honourable, they screech and weep for anything that doesn’t fit in their simplistic worldview, and resort to sinful and tasteless acts to maintain it. But these eternal children do not exist in a closed environment, for they very much take a seat in the open discourse of the temporal and ecclesiastical world. Their lack of stable homes, moral compasses & remarkable characters drive them to compensate in various careers: which are facilitated by their benefactors. While those that never achieve anything linger in the fringes of society: a few happen to speak the right words, or be at the right place, for them to be thrusted into prominence. From that position, they influence innocent bystanders and pawns they label ‘friends & associates’ to orchestrate whatever their perverse desires require them to. Understanding this modern ailment: we now look at the publication done by ‘Father Dima’ and Cyril Cardinalis Borealis. Cheered on by folk that never interested themselves, involved themselves or cared about the Holy Mother Church: they invoke deception and false battlecries in hopes to harm a faith that provides crucial infrastructure to the societies of Oren & Hanseti-Ruska. Upon the ascension of the High Pontificate of Owyn III, the Holy Mother Church immediately walked a reconciliatory approach with the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska that the then Cardinal Albarosa once had poor relations with. Years of conscious neglect by preceding Pontificates, who were scared of a powerful Archdiocese of Jorenus, caused a tear in the tapestry of an united Canonist realm. Diligent priests & bishops in Jorenus were met with the constant invisible barriers of foreign appointments to their diocese, or the tolerance of absent & neglectful clergy members kept in their seat on purpose. His Holiness, who has no vested history or bloodtie to the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, recognizes this mistake and seeks to rectify it. Yet those who once stood as sycophants to those prior Pontificates, who enjoyed and profited from a concise policy of neglect and containment against the people of Hanseti-Ruska, do not wish for the High Pontificate of Owyn III to succeed in this quest. These handful of petite humans, with petite souls, surround themselves with their own political associates and call in all favours owed to them, to fabricate scandal and outrage, with the sole purpose of creating a scorched earth within humanity. To the clergy of the Holy Mother Church, this feels significantly surreal, to handle. While Bishops and Priests alike work with His Holiness to revitalize the faith, drafting bulls, preparing homilies, restoring ancient rites: missives are received that proclaim that things have been said or done, that nobody within the Holy Mother Church can remember or reaffirm. Fighting the figments of imaginations of malicious iconoclasts is something that can never be done in a satisfactory way, as the Holy Mother Church cannot hold itself accountable over non-existent events. The Church recognizes there is a grim reality that has been sired through the reproduction of contemporary media - a rampant proliferation of fabrications made to fulfill an unrighteous agenda. Would a Saint intervene on a Pontifical election regarding a vote, which wouldn’t even have been decisive in the first place? Obviously not. The Lord God does not engage in futilities. Whether Cardinal Borealis voted for, or against, His Holiness: the High Pontificate of Owyn III would still have ascended upon His Holiness’ Pontifical enthronement. For even without his vote, His Holiness was graced by a majority of four Cardinals. But let the record state that Cardinal Borealis did vote for His Holiness as well, even after this supposed apparition. Making his majority that of five cardinals. Does any election exist in this world where someone retracts his vote when he regrets it months later? And why would it take months for Cardinal Borealis to realise the meaning of this supposed divine intervention? And because these writings are public in nature, innocent clergymen who merely want to do their job are forced to dabble in politics and factionalism: as if they are in a parliament, instead of the Holy Mother Church. The Pontificate of Owyn III collectively feels ultimate guilt when it sees apolitical clergymen, the desired model by all Canonist nations, pen their own rebuttals to schismatics, who shall never listen to them in the first place. Distracted from their sermons and congregations, they now spend nights protecting an institution that is their home, from a hostile attempt at damaging it. Let us be clear. After this response, the Holy Mother Church shall no longer divert any time, resources or manpower to answer for and reason with folks of malicious intent like these. If they call an illegitimate council, the Palatinate Guard shall arrest and prosecute them accordingly. If they seek out civilian governments to agitate a schism, we will see to their permanent banishment from all human kingdoms. If they continue to walk this path of schism, they will find themselves excommunicated: and eventually burned at the stake. They severely underestimate the love that exists between a Bishop and his congregation, and between His Holiness and his flock. While they can only destroy, we live a life in servitude to the creation and facilitation of purpose and colour in human societies. What is Haense without their Archbishop Benedict? What is Oren without Cardinal Amadeus Nescia? They would be fine nations and people for sure, but they would simply be incomplete without them. Now the reign of the jester shall end, as the Holy Mother Church refuses to legitimize absurdity any longer. Expect a rectification of this situation in the Second Golden Bull of Albarosa soon. Te Deum. PONTIFEX MAXIMUS OWYN III

PONTIFICAL RESPONSE TO The Pied Piper: Viperam Sub Ala Nutricare By Beatrice Virosi In lights of this publication, His Holiness the High Pontiff Owyn III wishes to respond publicly to the allegations levied. An election that faced administrative difficulties pertaining to Cyril Cardinalis Borealis' vote, and the chaotic transition that followed after the Papal enthronement of 1802, had caused the unfortunate misjudgement of His Holiness to make this mistake in his First Golden Bull. Although other allegations in the publication are false, and merely theatrics, it is pertinent of any good Canonist to recognize his mistake wherever he may make it. Therefore, His Holiness the High Pontiff shall reinstate Johan Cardinalis Vuiller to the now Sextarchy of the Holy Mother Church. It is indeed true that His Holiness had, from the capacity of Premier of Kaedrin & Prince-Archbishop of Albarosa, published writings to the people of Hanseti-Ruska. These are however older than forty years, and as such, do not represent the opinions and worldview of His Holiness who, as of now, resides in Karosgrad. Furthermore, His Holiness had greatly expanded the representation of Haeseni clergy within the Holy Mother Church, and relaxed its ecclesiastical doctrines to allow the restoration of the Ruskan rite under careful guidance. Actions speak louder than words. His Holiness wishes to conclude this response by a sincere apology to Johan Cardinalis Vuiller, and shall in the future remain more vigilant in its proceedings and administration. Further deliberation regarding the college of cardinals shall be discussed in the First Diet of Albarosa on ((Saturday 5PM EST)) with the invited clergy. TE DEUM GODANI JEST WIELKI PONTIFEX MAXIMUS OWYN III

"Cool fiction." said Owyn III, pricking his fork into another plate of Tiramisu.

MISSIVE FROM THE HIGH PONTIFICATE OF OWYN III To the esteemed diplomatic corps of the Holy Orenian Empire and the Talon's Port, The Holy Mother Church congratulates both parties on this great diplomatic achievement: one that shall secure harmony and peace between two societies of humans. May GOD smile upon you today, and may this peace be everlasting. TE DEUM GODANI JEST WIELKI PONTIFEX MAXIMUS OWYN III

MISSIVE FROM THE HIGH PONTIFICATE OF OWYN III To my esteemed Princeps-Archiepiscopus, Sanctitas Pontifex Maximus Owyn III sanctions this call for this Diet, henceforth known as 'The First Diet of Albarosa', to be held in the Karosgrad Basilica on ((Saturday 5PM EST)). All Bishops, Archbishops & Curia Members shall be allowed to vote, while the rest of the clergy are allowed to partake. TE DEUM. GODANI JEST WIELKI PONTIFEX MAXIMUS OWYN III

"A splendid feat indeed." Owyn III raised his glass of champagne to the nuns who giggled in passing "Our Faith has never been more inclusive. GOD blesses these fine women of the Faith."

Owyn III sat himself behind the mahony desk of his predecessor James II, as his Ishikawan servants rushed to bring him his Tiramisu & sparkling champagne. "Rightio signore" he muttered, holding the letter placed on his desk up as he reclined into his chair. As his beady blue eyes darted over the compact letter, a slight smile would appear. He leans forward, penning a letter back. "To my most esteemed Episcopus of Valwyck, With great joy do I receive my first correspondence as Pontifex Maximus, and to see it carry such great news. You are a Bishop in a fine nation, overlooking fine people. I have full confidence that the Haeseni peers will receive you hospitably, and may GOD grant you the wisdom to represent our interests well. If this letter reaches you before you find yourself in such a meeting: tell them that the Holy Mother Church is looking for diocesan representatives, with the hope that they would advise yourself and your ecclesiastical colleagues as civilians and peers of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. GODANI JEST WIELKI PONTIFEX MAXIMUS OWYN III"

PRIMUS BULLA AUREA ALBAROSA The First Golden Bull of Albarosa OWYN III, pontifex maximus, servus servorum Dei, episcopus Sancta Sedes, Sends his greetings to all the faithful of the realm. Since a thing just and honorable is asked of us by GOD: to promulgate His Word, protect His Faith & defend the Sanctity of His Flock, GOD demands that these missions are led to its proper conclusion through the care of our office, and the piety of our faithful. His Institution, our Holy Mother Church, has not been ever-vigilant in its pursuit to maintain humanity’s faith. We find many organs of His Institution dormant, nepotism rampant & subservience to irrelevant Temporal interests all too common. To resolve this, we look to St. Karl of Petrus, who had martyred himself to rescue those among him and his homeland, for divine inspiration. For we too must make sacrifices to preserve the existence of our ecclesiastical kindred, and the faith they evangelize. Had the bravery of St. Karl wavered, a people and their nation would’ve been extinct today. Do we fail to stand unwavering against the marches of modernity & secularism ourselves, GOD’s presence in Humanity might go extinct too. It is with this profound understanding and mandate, that the High Pontificate of Owyn III publishes this PRIMUS BULLA AUREA ALBAROSA, which shall see to the swift & concise revitalization of His Institution. It shall rectify the mistakes once made due to the temptations of empathy, temporal politics & sinful self-indulgence, as it is published in the first year of our pontificate. Te deum. TABLE OF CONTENTS I). Diocesan restructuring II). Facilitation of cultural rites III). Silentium Aureum Doctrinam IV). The Holy Mother Church of the Canon SECTION I. DIOCESAN RESTRUCTURING The High Pontificate of Owyn III feels privileged that its predecessor, the late Pontiff James II, greatly expanded the Holy Mother Church into regions previously left untouched. This expansion unfortunately caused uneven development between dioceses: where grave differences in vitality, quality & ecclesiastical integrity became apparent. Considering this, the Holy Mother Church looks to its most bustling dioceses of Jorenus & Providentia for inspiration, and establishes a permanent hierarchy for each diocese to fulfill. DIET OF BISHOPS, a convention of all (Arch)bishops to discuss local ecclesiastical matters and further inter-diocesan cooperation. A Diet can be called by any (Arch)bishop with the sanctioning of His Holiness. If a Diet is called, it shall carry the name of the diocese of the petitioner. ARCHBISHOP, who administers the archdiocese on behalf of His Holiness. VICAR, who manages the treasury and the Churches of the Archdiocese. BISHOP, who administers a specific subsection of an archdiocese, known as a diocese. DIOCESAN LEGATES, who advise the (Arch)bishop as civilian representatives from a certain class or minority within a particular society or nation. Every Archdiocese must employ diocesan legates, but a diocese may only employ them if their congregations are sufficiently large. SECTION II. FACILITATION OF CULTURAL RITES Since the existence of our Holy Mother Church, did different cultures evangelize our faith in different ways. While some were heretical sects, others stood proudly as a developed ecclesiastical identity from a specific people. After the successes seen with the implementation of Ruskan Orthodox aesthetics in the Metropolitanate of Jorenus, and the rehabilitation of Owynism in the Commonwealth of Kaedrin, the High Pontificate of Owyn III considers it a bountiful endeavour to further expand the unique cultural identities of its diverse set of dioceses. It shall therefore instruct all dioceses to cooperate with His Holiness, the Vice-Chancellor & the Auditor of the Tribunal in studying records and transcribing local rites, in hopes that it may one day ascend to as legitimized local rites of the Holy Mother Church: publicly revered and taught throughout mankind. The High Pontificate of Owyn III considers the following rites subject to further review & theological development: I). Ruskan Orthodoxy in the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, to be overseen by the Metropolitanate of Jorenus, Diocese of Heinrikev & Reinmar. II). Owynism in the Commonwealth of Kaedrin, to be overseen by the Prince-Archbishopric of Albarosa, Diocese of Damnata. III). Hyspianic Rites in the Principality of Hyspia, to be overseen by the Prince-Archbishopric of Albarosa, Diocese of Hyspia. IV). Norlandic Canonism in the Kingdom of Norland, to be overseen by the Diocese of Borealis. SECTION III. SILTENTIUM AUREAM DOCTRINAM With the expansion of the ecclesiastical organization and the ascension of non-Cardinals to the Curia, we find that the contents of our correspondence shall pass through more hands than what was traditionally the case. While the Holy Mother Church refuses to soil itself with the dirt and stench usually found in temporal schemes: it has in the past found its drafts, correspondence or quotes from meetings displayed on the council tables of various nations. And while the substance of this exposed correspondence may be harmless, it does damage principal expectations of integrity and reliability. The High Pontificate of Owyn III views this as a consequence of a lax attitude towards the temporal loyalties of its clergymen, that at times might conflict with the interests of the Holy Mother Church. Furthermore, we found that in the past certain Monsignors who occupy prominent government positions used their access and proximity to us to report back to their temporal superiors, or lobbied Cardinals to defy their ecclesiastical duties for civilian political gain.. This inevitably creates an atmosphere wherein clergymen no longer feel the liberty to, within the confines of their ecclesiastical workplace, express and draft as their faith asks them to. The instinctual response to this is to be more watchful of temporal loyalties within the clergy: but such practices border Darfeyism, and is unfeasible in the modern context of our faith. Therefore, the High Pontificate of Owyn III deems the Silentium Auream Doctrinam (The Golden Silence Doctrine) a proper remedy to this organizational illness. It is hoped that this doctrine shall find itself consolidated in future renditions of ecclesiastical law. But for now, it shall be based on the following stipulation: “That each member wielding an ecclesiastical role or responsibility shall never disclose the correspondence, contents of documents or provide access to premature drafts pertaining to the Holy Mother Church, and shall face an immediate ousting & ecclesiastical prosecution if caught doing so.” THE HOLY MOTHER CHURCH OF THE CANON Under GOD, maintained by His Holiness Owyn III THE PENTARCHY @argonian AILRED CARDINALIS REINMAR From the Diocese of Reinmar, Jorenus Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska @Caranthir_ AMADEUS CARDINALIS NESCIA From the Diocese of Nescia Trade Nation of Sutica @Publius CYRIL CARDINALIS BOREALIS From the Diocese of Borealis Kingdom of Norland @GoldWolfGaming MANFRIED CARDINALIS PROVIDENTIA From the Archdiocese of Providentia Holy Orenian Empire @Julio ツ PELAGIUS CARDINALIS ALBAROSA From the Prince-Archbishopric of Albarosa Commonwealth of Kaedrin THE CURIA THE VICE-CHANCELLOR Manfried Cardinalis Providentia @GoldWolfGaming THE PONTIFICAL AUDITOR Pius Clericus Albarosa @thesmellypocket THE PONTIFICAL SECRETARY Benedict Archiepiscopus Jorenus @Piov THE PRELATE OF THE CLERGY Alfred Episcopus Henrikev @repl1ca THE PRELATE OF THE SISTERHOOD Mother Roxalana @Axelu THE PONTIFICAL CHAMBERLAIN Cyril Cardinalis Borealis @Publius THE ECCLESIASTICAL PROSECUTOR Vicary Episcopus Ves @frill THE ECCLESIASTICAL CHRONICLER Alfred Clericus Damnata @Froschli THE KNIGHT-REGENT Armand-Philippe Talraen de Rennes @LithiumSedai MONSIGNORS Msgr. Ed Myre of Oren @Old Man Boiendl Msgr. Fiske Vanir of Haense @Sander Msgr. Vicary Armas of Nescia @frill Msgr. Adelric Barclay of Reinmar @MadOne Msgr. Jacques de Ardenne of Kaedrin @Rejacketed CANONIST DIOCESES ARCHDIOCESE OF JORENUS, encompassing the entirety of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, shepherded by The Right Reverend Archbishop Benedict of Jorenus @Piov DIOCESE OF HENRIKEV, encompassing the entirety of the Capital City of Karosgrad, shepherded by The Right Reverend Bishop Alfred of Henrikev @repl1ca. DIOCESE OF VALWYCK, encompassing the territories of Haeseni vassals & households outside of Karosgrad, shepherded by The Right Reverend Bishop Otto of Valwyck @Drumoldth. ARCHDIOCESE OF PROVIDENTIA, encompassing the entirety of the Capital City of Providence, shepherded by Manfried Cardinalis Providentia @GoldWolfGaming. PRINCELY-ARCHDIOCESE OF ALBAROSA, encompassing everything beyond the Capital City of Providence, that is within the Holy Orenian Empire, shepherded by Pelagius Cardinalis Albarosa @Julio ツ. DIOCESE OF VES, encompassing the Municipality of Redenford, shepherded by The Right Reverend Bishop Vicary of Ves @frill DIOCESE OF HYSPIA, granted to the people of Hyspia, shepherded by The Right Reverend Bishop Fransisco of Hyspia @Timer Spibs. DIOCESE OF NESCIA, encompassing the entirety of the Trade Nation of Sutica, shepherded by Amadeus Cardinalis Nescia @Caranthir_. DIOCESE OF BOREALIS, encompassing the entirety of the Kingdom of Norland, shepherded by Cyril Cardinalis Borealis @Publius. “Though the Spring flower withers and the fruit of the tree falls to the ground, My Word lasts onto the eve of the world, and the fruit of virtue cannot rot.” - Scroll of Virtue, 4:2. GODANI JEST WIELKI Sanctitas Pontifex Maximus OWYN III [!] A seal displaying Ex. Owyn & Ex. Sigismund seals this Golden Bull.

(Left to right - Manfried Cardinalis Godvinus, Armande-Philippe de Rennes, Amadeus Cardinalis, Ailred Cardinalis, Pontifex Maximus Owyn III, Cyril Cardinalis, Pelagius Episcopus & the head of Alfred Cardinalis Jorenus at the presentation of the new High Pontiff to the clergy, 1802). HABEMUS PAPAM! THE PAPAL ENTHRONEMENT OF 1802 On a nondescript morning as dawn had barely commenced, a carriage parked before the Reinmar Estate in the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. There, amidst the displaced Kaedreni wandering about the tents that encircled the structure, stood a frail and fatigued man cutting the only rosebush in the garden. As Cardinal Amadeus and his aide exited the carriage quite clumsily, they proceeded towards the man in purple robes ahead. “Ahem.” the aged Cardinal spoke, clasping his hands as a “Hmm?” was replied. The wigged man that turned his head towards Amadeus, was none other than his old friend Cardinal Laurence. “What brings you here?” “Bad news, Eminence.” “Am I demoted again?” “No, worse.” The Albarose would gently place his cutters on the fence besides him, now turning fully towards Amadeus. “Could it b-” “Yes Eminence, His Holiness has passed away.” “Ohh.” he would look at his Rosebush, then to the Cardinal’s aide, then to Amadeus “I suppose I should dress for the occasion then?” Amadeus nodded as he beckoned to his own white Cardinal robes. Without any words, both Laurence and Amadeus would enter the Reinmar estate: being greeted by ten awkward Barclays staring at from the table, where they attempted to have an undisturbed breakfast. “Are you looking for Ailred? He is ou-” Laurence held up his hand, ignoring the young Barclay who looked with a confused expression. Amadeus nodded apologetically towards them, as Laurence raced forward to the guest room he made his home. Many grunts and a quick line of Albarosan powder later, both Cardinals entered the cramped carriage: and were headed to the interim Holy See in Providence. They would find crowds of clergymen, bureaucrats & onlookers crammed in the Providence Cathedral: all looking at the rotting body of what once was His Holiness James II, surrounded by treasures once obtained and gained posthumously. (Left to right - Amadeus Cardinalis, Manfried Cardinalis, Laurence Cardinalis, Ailred Cardinalis & Cyril Cardinalis prior to the Conclave of 1802). “The unity of our Church is of utmost importance.” Amadeus declared across the table, garnering attention from the rest “We must elect someone that can withstand this modern zeitgeist, and uphold the spirit of our faith.” “Right.” Cyril nodded in agreement “Let us then look over the candidates?” “Candidates?” Laurence scoffed “You mean candidate. His Holiness would’ve wanted his Synod to act as one!” “Quite!” Amadeus shook his fist “We cannot be disunited by temporal sectarianism -- a distraction from the pure ideological convictions of our faith!” “So who shall we nominate as our candidate? Jorenus?” Ailred inquired. “No problem.” Amadeus nodded to that. “Uhmm, technically, yes problem.” Laurence leaned forward “Jorenus would alienate our Fidei Defensor.” “Well when I said no problem.” Amadeus swallowed “I meant: no... Problem.” “Right.” Ailred scratched the back of his head “Godvinus then?” “If we’re going for the Oren route, wouldn’t I be more qualified?” Amadeus frowned at Ailred, clasping his hands “Godvinus surely would be a better fit to manage our burials and weddings, non?” “Didn’t you get shipped off to Sutica by His Holiness?” Manfried retorted with a snort “Bold to assume you would be Oren’s pick.” “Eminences, please!” Cyril intervened “Think of the Faith! Would GOD look at us squabbling like this, and be proud of us? This is a descension into anti-confessional convictions!” “If it isn’t me, I suppose we elect Albarosa then.” Amadeus would nod to Laurence, both raising their hand. “All-” he beckoned Manfried with threatening eyes, who reluctantly raised his hand “in favour.” Cyril looked at him too, following his lead as Amadeus continued “The motion to nominate Albarosa carries-” he would pause, looking at Ailred. “What?” Ailred perked a brow, as now all Cardinals would look at him with their hands raised. “Un-” Amadeus continued, tilting his head. “Fine.” Ailred sighed, raising his hand. “Unanimously. Congratulations Cardinal Albarosa!” A crowd awaits the election of the new High Pontiff, 1802. The doors of the backroom in the Providence Cathedral were sealed by two Bishops, as the crowd stood around the empty Pontifical Throne in anticipation. The Haeseni prayed for either Alfred or Ailred, the Orenians prayed for Manfried or Amadeus and the Kaedreni for Laurence. Some eyed each other awkwardly, others loudly jested about each other’s candidate. The mixed mood outside was nothing like the inner chamber of the Conclave, where Pontifical Aide Theon Virosi read out the election results. “Albarosa Cardinalis.” The room remained silent. “Albarosa Cardinalis.” “That’s tw-” “Shh!” Amadeus interrupted Laurence, Theon looking at them with a mildly annoyed expression. “Jorenus Cardinalis.” “****.” “Shh!” “Ohh c-!” “SHH” Theon interjected, grumbling. “Albarosa Cardinalis.” A sigh could be heard from the opposite side of the room, as the rest did their best to remain silent. “Jorenus Cardinalis.” “Seriously?” “For the love of God Laurence.” “Fine.” Alfred would narrow his eyes at Laurence, shaking his head in disapproval. “Albarosa Cardinalis.” Laurence gasped, turning to Ailred who did the same. Amadeus hesitantly raised his thumbs up. "It uhh.." Theon looked up, swallowing "We seem to be missing one vote?". A sigh of frustration swept across the room, with Laurence frantically summoning a pack of cigarettes as Amadeus started to look around the room. Cardinal Cyril had already departed, had he not voted? After hours of waiting: his vote was finally retrieved, with the new fatigued clergy continuing on their business as usual. The room bursted with applause after the long overdue announcement was made: some polite and some genuine, as his comrades gathered closer to congratulate him personally. The celebration in the room was short lived however, as aides rushed to bring the new High Pontiff to the red dressing chamber. There, his entry to his life as Pontifex would be carefully curated: from outfit, to music. The Procession of His Holiness the High Pontiff Owyn III in the Providence Cathedral, 1802. Standing before the Pontifical Throne, Laurence was surrounded by the Synod of James II. Cardinal Amadeus stood closest to him, he began the prayer of Penitence: “Almighty and most merciful Creator, We have wandered and strayed from your ways Like lost sheep. We have followed too much the devices and desires Of our own hearts We have left undone those things That we ought to have done And there is no health in us But you, O’Lord, have mercy upon us sinners. Spare those who confess their faults. Restore those who are penitent, According to your promises declared to mankind In Horen our Lord, And grant, O most merciful Creator, for his sake, That we may live a disciplined, righteous and godly life, To the glory of your holy name. So say we all.” It was then that Laurence was presented to the rest of the clergy in nothing but a simple white robe, with the Synod stepping backwards to open up the view. Cardinal Amadeus continued “With the Lord Creator, our witness and guide, it has been divined that the Laurence of Kaedrin, born Laurence August Pruvia-Albarosa, has been willed to fulfill the seat of the Church Pontificate.” Amadeus cleared his throat: Albarosa Cardinalis, acceptasne electionem de te canonice factam in Summum Pontificem?” “Yes. I do so believe.” “You have been ordained in our Holy Mother Church, your household names forsaken and your life devoted in sole service to the teachings of our Creator. The vows of your past vocations remain firm; now you must make the declaration of assent.” An ancient scroll is summoned, to which Cardinal Amadeus recites “The Church of Faithful is the One, Holy and Rightful Church of the Creator , worshiping the one true God, The Creator. It professes the faith uniquely revealed in the Holy Scrolls and set forth in the Faithful creeds, which faith the Church is called upon to proclaim afresh in each generation. Led by the Holy Light, it has borne witness to Faithful truth in its historic formulates, the Articles of Faith, The Book of Saints. In the declaration you are about to make, will you affirm your loyalty to this inheritance of faith as your inspiration and guidance under God in bringing the grace and truth of Horen to this generation and making Him known to those in your care?” “I, Laurence of Kaedrin, do so affirm, and accordingly declare my belief in the faith which is revealed in the Holy Scrolls and set forth in the Faithful creeds, to which the historic formularies of the Church of the Creator bear witness; and in public prayer and administration of the sacraments, I will use only the forms of service which are authorized or allowed by the Canon.” Laurence replies. “Do you accept the Holy Scrolls as revealing all things necessary for eternal salvation through faith?” “I do so accept them.” “Will you be diligent in prayer, in reading Holy Scrolls, and in all studies that will deepen your faith and fit you to bear witness to the truth of the Word?” “By the help of GOD, I will.” "Will you lead your people in proclaiming the glorious Word of Horen, so that the good news of salvation may be heard in every place?" "By the help of God, I will." "Will you teach the doctrine of Horen as the Church of Faith has received it, will you refute error, and will you hand on the entire faith that is entrusted to you?" "By the help of God, I will." "Will you be faithful in ordaining and commissioning ministers of the Church?" "By the help of God, I will." Will you be gentle and merciful for Horen’s sake to those who are in need, and speak for those who have no other to speak for them? "By the help of God, I will." "Will you endeavor to fashion your own life and that of your household according to the way of God and make your home a place of hospitality and welcome?" "By the help of God, I will." "Will you work with your fellow servants in the Church for the sake of the kingdom of God?" "By the help of God, I will." "Will you accept the discipline of this Church, exercising authority with justice, courtesy and love, and always holding before you the example of Horen?" "By the help of God, I will." "Will you then, in the strength of the Holy Light, continually stir up the gift of God that is in you, that the good news of God may be proclaimed in all the Realm?" "By the help of God, I will." "Speak thus then the oath of the Pontificate, with the conclave and God as witness." "I vow to change nothing of the received Tradition, and nothing thereof I have found before me guarded by my God-pleasing predecessors, to encroach upon, to alter, or to permit any innovation therein; To the contrary: with glowing affection as her truly faithful student and successor, to safeguard reverently the passed-on good, with my whole strength and utmost effort; To cleanse all that is in contradiction to the canonical order, should such appear; to guard the Holy Canons and Decrees of our Saints and Pontiffs as if they were the divine ordinance of Heaven, because I am conscious of Thee, whose place I take through the Grace of God, whose Vicarship I possess with Thy support, being subject to severest accounting before Thy Divine Tribunal over all that I shall confess; I swear to God Almighty and the Favored son Horen that I will keep whatever has been revealed through Horen and His Successors and whatever the Saints and my predecessors have defined and declared. I will keep without sacrifice to itself the discipline and the rite of the Church. I will put outside the Church whoever dares to go against this oath, may it be somebody else or I. If I should undertake to act in anything of contrary sense, or should permit that it will be executed, Thou willst not be merciful to me on the dreadful Day of Divine Justice. Accordingly, without exclusion, We subject to severest excommunication anyone -- be it Ourselves or be it another -- who would dare to undertake anything new in contradiction to this constituted Tradition and the purity of the Faith and the Faithful religion, or would seek to change anything by his opposing efforts, or would agree with those who undertake such a blasphemous venture." As Laurence’s oath comes to a close, Amadeus washes the face of Laurence and anoints his forehead with scented oils. "Cleansed of worldly taint, you are reborn in the Creator's vision. Your heart blessed in the eternal compassion and truth of Horen; your soul aflame with the benevolent justice and fervor of Owyn; your body awash with the incredulous miracles and charisma of Godfrey; your mind attuned to the unworldly wisdom and vigor of Siegmund." Amadeus then garbs Laurence in the pontifical cloth, and bestows the pontifical ferula. "By this you are known to all as preserver of truths and lord spiritual." Amadeus then retrieves the radiant ring of St. Lucien, before sliding it upon the right ring finger of the anointed, and afterward, takes the pontifical mitre and rests it upon his brow. “Pontifex Maximus, quo nomine vis vocari?” Laurence looked around the room for a moment. His regnal name, a new name. He closed his eyes for a moment, looking up as he hoped for a name to enter his head. Then, a voice in his head spoke to him. He opened his eyes, whispering the name to Amadeus. Amadeus then ordered for the doors to be opened, the public steadily spreading out across the sides. He spoke loudly and with determination. "I announce to you a great joy: HABEMUS PAPAM! The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Laurence of Kaedrin, Pontifex Maximus Fidei Who takes to himself the name:" OWYN III. “HABEMUS PAPAM!” the town criers exclaimed, as Owyn III was carried on his Sedia Gestatoria. “HABEMUS PAPAM - PAPA OWYN III! PAPA OWYN III!”. White rose petals were thrown as the procession passed through the Cathedral. Some women exposing their bare chests with purple painted letters spelling ‘L A P’ were discreetly moved back into the Crowd, as others chanted “AVE CHIVAY!”. “GODANI JEST WIELKI” another would shout, as another would reply “DEUS VULT!”. The procession became louder and louder, as more people started to shout creeds into the room. Owyn III tried his best to focus, the thundering shouts thumping in his head. He managed to maintain his composure: looking serious and profound as he finally exited the Cathedral, on his way to Karosgrad. While some might’ve wept, at least today, GOD smiled. High Pontiff Owyn III on his Mare ‘Anne of Novellen' - Official Pontifical Portrait painted by Robert Foltest Helvets, 1802. Official crest of His Holiness the High Pontiff Owyn III.

Cardinal Albarosa casts his vote with a picture-perfect smile.

"A sad day for the faith," Laurence kneeled beside James II, holding his now cold hand "We have fought and reconciled, but you were truly a father that I never had to me. From a young boy until now, you have nurtured me to become who I am. Thank you, Your Holiness. May your soul find the rest it finally deserves."

"Nic o nas, bez nas." said Adrian Helvets, reading the pamphlet by the grave of his own nation's dignity.

"God bless the Hyspian people." Laurence smirks out of his window, looking down on the cutely dressed figurines chatting with his clergy. He would look behind him: the newly hanged blue & red Hyspian banner hanging proudly alongside that of his Albarosa. "Another branch of the Rosebush blossoms."

The Albarosan Cardinal smiled "This is a fine document: it shall be blessed with my approval."