Pureimp10

"Everyday I grow more and more drawn to Sanoism," comments Patriarch Josef.

"They did what?! Where was I when this happened?" Patriarch Josef paced around the Bard and Bottle Tavern in Valdev, fresh bottle of rum in hand.

"So much for finishing like that one guy wanted." Patriarch Josef shrugged as he heard the news. He returned his attention to a freshly baked meat pie that had been set before him.

i have never once in my life met a spook that actually rped anything that gave an indication to their true identity. the fail-safe test exists because they do everything in their power not to get caught (which is understandable).

 

removing the salt removes any realistic counter since any kind of investigative or interrogation rp is restricted by rules on capturing/imprisonment, and any other kind of weakness is downplayed significantly to the point of redundancy.

 

also this is minecraft lol there's only so much investigating you can do. in the end it all just comes down to a guess (fueled by ooc knowledge or not). it also means that people will just mechanically avoid players that they know play spook chars. is it metagaming? yea. will you be able to prove it without it being in writing? no.

 

like luxury said, you cant have it both ways. either the entire corc community actually shows their flaws and weaknesses or they submit to the salt

4 hours ago, Apotolofo said:

A humble Retraction

 

Upon speaking with the Cardinal Father Armond, I have come to the realization that my accusations were unwisely worded, and brash. I thank Father Armond for revealing to me what I had overlooked. I hope the inquisition and those loyal to GOD forgive me for my rash words. 

 

Let it be known my intention was pure, free of any disdain or resentment. I want only what GOD would want for our people- but I am young in my service to the church, and I know not what GOD would want as well as the others may.

 

To any who agreed with my missive, I do hope that you may seek out an Inquisition member to speak with as I have. I have been enlightened, and I find myself to be closer to GOD. 

 

I formally retract my statement, 

 

Godan guide you.

 

Signed,

Nicolette Arika Amador

 

A messenger brought word of the retraction to Patriarch Josef, who promptly shooed him away.

"God, that was still going on? I don't want to hear about it." He continued his dinner, biting into a ripe cherry tomato.

"Wow, I've only seen three Kortrevich women in my life. One is a Countess, another wasn't even around enough to call herself a proper Kortrevich, and the other just got disowned." says Friar Josef as he continued his education in family therapy methods

“Aw man!” exclaimed Friar Josef

Friar Josef thought he heard the complaints of two failed former royals, but quickly shrugged it off as his own delusions.

 

"Another beautiful baby. The King must surely be happy!"

 

PREFACE

I, the head of the Royal Commission for the Exploration and Chartering of Aevos (otherwise known as the Josefite Expedition), present our findings to the King of Hanseti-Ruska, his peers and nobles, and all the Haeseni people for their consideration. Eight Commissioners, volunteers who selflessly gave their time in service to their Kingdom, set forth into the wild country of Aevos. Their goal was to chart the untamed wilderness of the land surrounding the capital of Valdev, what mountains and valleys and other unnatural structures existed in our world. In this goal, they have succeeded. As I look back on our findings and the result of our work, I first want to thank my fellow Commissioners, for the effort and self-sacrifice required to complete a project of this magnitude. I seek also to thank King Georg, without whose patronage this report could not be written. Finally, I thank the Haeseni people for their continued support, and look forward to seeing the great mark they shall leave on this continent.

 

Friar Josef

COMMISSION HEAD

 

 

DIVISION OF WORK

In order to effectively and efficiently chart and explore the area surrounding the capital of Valdev, this commission divided the country into sections using the Lahy Strat (River Lahy) and Dules Strat (River Dules) as natural borders. Using this method, our Commission divided the wilderness into thirds to divide our work and which we shall use to present our findings in this report.

 

THE NORTHWEST

The most diverse of the sections, the northwest boasts vast forests and tall mountains, as well as the greatest variety in biome. The land is warmer (and greener) in the south, but gradually transitions into fierce winter and a snowy climate. The northwest is also home to the nearest forest, dubbed the Westerwald, and will be a great source of lumber for the Kingdom. North of the forest are vast mountains, which this Commission has chosen to name the Kareninas, in honor of Queen Emma Karenina. This Commission recommends that mines be established in the Kareninas to harness the mineral wealth of the earth. Also to the north is a great lake that we have named Lake Georg, in honor of our patron King Georg, which is sure to contain minerals and fish and other valuable resources.

 

Within the northwest section, just west of the capital of Valdev, are the Gates of Muldav, large naturally formed archways that allow the Dules Strat to pass through.

 

 

In addition to natural features, some pre-existing structures were also discovered. One such structure was a ruined tower, spotted along the coast of Lake Georg.

 

 

At this time, we are unable to determine who or what constructed this tower and would encourage further investigation by the Crown. The northwest also contains sections of the main road, and bridges built between mountains to continue it. It is our belief that this road leads to previously undiscovered lairs or to the Kingdom of Norland, who we know to have settled in the north of the continent.

 

THE SOUTHWEST

The southwest contains the greatest variation in elevation, with high cliffs covering most of the area before dropping into a desert valley in the far south. The plateau of the southwest sits at a great height, and is home to a great variety of livestock, from cattle to horses. This Commission would urge the Crown to host its livestock farmers and horse breeders on this plateau. The Lahy Strat also leads to the Vander Falls before it flows into the desert. 

 

 

The desert itself holds great buttes, the cluster of which has been named The Bogatyr, standing vigilantly in the south.

 

  

As with the northwest, the southwest also contains unnatural and pre-existing structures that were discovered by our Commissioners as they explored the south.

 

 

There exists a magical dwarven gate that leads into a chamber in the mountain. We are unaware of how to open it, but would urge the Crown to conduct future actions with this gate to explore what lies behind it.

 

Within the buttes of the desert, our Commissioners have also discovered some sort of Easterner bridge and settlement built at the top of two of them. We are unsure if this settlement is populated or if it is deserted, but it is worth further inquiry in the future.

 

 

 

THE EAST

The flattest of the three sections, the east holds no claim to fame. Besides a few slight hills the terrain consists of large plains, which would be good grazing grounds for cattle and other livestock. The land also seems fertile and could prove to be the breadbasket of the Kingdom should farmers make proper use of the land.

 

The only irregular item in the East is the Hanging Tree with a noose and cobwebs covering it. It is unclear if the tree was once populated by animals or other creatures, but we would advise caution until further reinforcements can be deployed to investigate the tree.

 

 

CONCLUSION

The culmination of the past few months of work, this Commission is proud to present a parchment map of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. We understand that this map is sure to be changed in the future as the land is developed, but we are proud to provide a foundational understanding of the surrounding country and to serve our Kingdom.

 

 

 

 

 

ACT I

 

SCENE I. St. Karlsburg. The courtyard of Ottosgrad Palace.

It is the winter of 1586. Alistar, a close confidant of the royal family walks outside of the castle holding a leash with a small grey puppy. There are thick heaps of snow that cover across the ground.

 

ALISTAR

(Enter Alistar, holding a leash with a young grey pup. Alistar picks up the young king and props Marius on his lap as he clears his throat.)

Come

Do you know the story of your namesake?

Attend, young boy to Gaius Marius!

The strength of GOD was vested upon him, 

Bringing with him the pride of Hanseti.

For great was his brav’ry against his foes.

To thee, young king, this ode I utter thus,

Harken to his name, Gaius Marius!

Today you are the one who stands on high,

A great destiny few men seek to try.

 

(The young Marius sits quietly, looking up at the poet’s narrative in awe. Enter Julia with courtiers.)

 

JULIA

Alas, poor boy, afflicted by neglect.

I am baffl’d and disgraced to see him.

Myself I throw dread monarchy at thy feet.

Destined art thou to fail at eagle’s nest. 

Kings are but gilded snow and melted ice,

Glistening upon the highest mountain.

How great the mountain stands above the rest,

Until the time of the season must change.

All glistening of snow thus melts away.

The wond’rous winter has but now elapsed,

Leaving behind no trace to behold.

Such became of the reign of his father,

For now the season’s change has now arrived. 

(A gentle cascade of snowflakes descends to the ground.) 

 

ALISTAR

Have hope dear princess, lest we be faithless! 

Woe to us, for GOD calls men to be strong.

To what do we owe this ode of pity? 

There is no room for gloom and heartlessness, 

Deriding the blessing that GOD doth give. 

 

(Alistar hands the leash to Marius.) 

 

ALISTAR

A wolf pup is a loyal companion, 

Surely a friend for life and unto death. 

The deep cold of the winters here in Haense,

 Test the soul to all that you shall hold dear.

As a wolf is nourished by his master,

So does a land from the love of their king.

 

(Exit Julia and Marius.) 

 

ALISTAR

My GOD, if thou hearest me in prayer,

Look with pity and on the sins of the past.

Strengthen those who need your guidance the most,

And for this blessed Northmarch, redemption.

Shed the angst of Andrik’s folly and vice,

Renew the hearts of those who fear this life,

And give us the grace to handle our pain.

 

(Exit Alistar. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE II. St. Karlsburg. The sparring arena within the Golden Crow barracks.

Enter Otto Heinrik, Alistar, several Golden Crow guardsmen. 

 

OTTO HEINRIK

(Otto picks up a sparring sword.) 

From the seas of Serpentstone to Greyspine, 

A warrior will I be to the north.

So vast this land, yet I shall see its ends,

 From the mount of my strong and steady steed.

Enemies to the right, and to the left,

So great they are but still unmatched for me.

 

ALISTAR

Lo, Otto use your sense and keep your head!

The enemy may come, or they may go, 

But the defender always stays en guarde.
 

OTTO HEINRIK

Heartily, I speak the truth, do I not?

Great are the gifted fathers of Joren,

So too am I, to follow in their stead!

 

GUARD

(Bellowing.)

Entering His Majesty the King!

 

(Enter Marius, flanked by his retinue of courtier and Gold Crow guardsmen.)

 

MARIUS

So great is Otto, who else can compare?
Perhaps a jester roaming the manure!

I kid, good brother for no one compares!

(A nun comes forward, setting a desk for Marius’ study.) 

The words of yore still strike us true, 

Ever to keep us on our watchful eyes.

Let none deceive or hinder, the glory 

Of the glacial and majestic winter. 

Whoso wishes to deny GOD’s elect, 

the Highlander and their great free spirit?

 

ALISTAR

I see you have excelled in your studies.

It takes more than just one’s strength and one’s pride, 

But an unwavering mind that can see all.

Barbanov never falls short of duty.

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE III. St. Karlsburg. The throne room of Ottosgrad palace. 

Enter Karl Sigmar, seated at the throne. Royal courtiers fill the peripheries of the palace throne room. Marius, Otto, the Queen-Mother flank Karl Sigmar. The Haense peerage are all present. The issue with the inclusion of House Brawm divides the Crown and the House of Kovachev.

 

KARL SIGMAR

(Seated at the throne. His face is shrouded in fatigue) 

My lords, we convene to discuss disputes,

Concerning the lands within Carnatia. 

With that, the Duke Kovachev may rise forth.

 

SERGEI II

Your Highness and my fellow noble lords.

Tis but a day of sad regret I rise,

A man of loyalty and reverence

To our Northern pride and our Northern crown.

Why must we, the very House that sheltered

Our king and gladly sacrificed our lives

For the Kingdom, fight for security?

 

KARL SIGMAR

His Grace will cease his statement of dispute.

Alas, the Duke heeds not my prior words,

And with deaf ears he proceeds to this court!

 

(Brawms snicker in the background.)

 

SERGEI II

Damned if I should act, damned if I do not.

(Looks around to the courtiers.)

His Highness seeks to silence me, but the 

Sun shines both on the good and the wicked!

Woe to this court should complacency rule! 

We serve the right, not the dogs that were set

On our duly earned Carnatian land.

Friends, kinsmen, pledge your attention to me!

I come to petition this esteemed court 

Not to sow dissent nor anger your hearts.

May he not forget my own sworn duty,

Not to the fallible whims of myself,

But to Haense and the lands which I defend.

Nor have I stood here to exhaust contempt

I demand all for my kin what is due,

Riddance the plague that is House Brawm in Haense.

 

KARL SIGMAR

You stand in my court, audacious and proud.

Careful with your use of such words, Your Grace.

They do not serve you well for your demands.

Our union of vassals stands without doubt. 

Perhaps it is that pride of yours to fix.

To all who here, to thine ears I impart,

The Crown is uncontested in all respect.

For if anyone should show dissent here 

Let he be admonished in our presence.

I hereby grant in this place our assent,

 that those of Houndsden shall dwell among us.

 

(Exit all but Karl Sigmar and Marius.)

 

KARL SIGMAR

My nephew, I pray you know the burden.

Let neither duke nor count speak over you. 

The lofty ambitions of your vassals

Must never come before you nor the Crown.

As GOD commands the snow fall all around,

He blesses the land with wintry wonder,

That where it falls, your reign shall reside.

Know this fully and keep this in your heart, 

For the day of reckoning shall be had.

 

(Karl Sigmar gave a sigh prior to departing the throne room.)

 

MARIUS

(Looked around at the empty room, the portraits of his father and grandfather prominently peering down upon him.)

To stand or fall, this I must decide now.

Shall I be condemned a life of burdens, 

Or shall I bring honor to this great house?

Is it greater to endure the pains of this crown,

Or to look upon strife as total strength?

The swooping talons of rival birds strike, 

But the noble crow is steadfast to fight.

For in death, I can sleep in quick respite.

But what glory does that bring to the north?

Who would stand in my stead to take on such?

The spurns of this station define this life.

What life have I been given to define!

No limits bear down on me but my thoughts,

The fears that dwell within this naive mind.

For it is true fear that creates weakness,

Furthering blinding the sight of resolve.

I pray, yet I hear nothing from the saints.

Oh gracious GOD and by Karl and Otto,

By Petyr and Andrik, let me succeed.

May this be your good will above indeed.

 

(Exit Marius. Scene closes.)

 

 

ACT II

 

SCENE I. St. Karlsburg. A hallway within Ottosgrad palace.

Marius is seated along the staircase of Ottosgrad, accompanied by Tatiana who is weeping.

 

MARIUS

(Comforts Tatiana and speaks in a jovial tone.)

Pray, good aunt, confide in me your sorrows!

What vice has afflicted your graciousness? 

 

TATIANA

My dear young boy, I should not burden you.

I shan’t wrest you away from your affairs.

 

MARIUS

No, dear aunt. I enjoy your company!

 

TATIANA

How gracious you share love for all.

Alas, your uncle Brynden shows disdain,

For his mindless actions cause much pain to me.

His deep ambition remains above me,

His mind has no care for our family.

For love is scarce among men in this world. 

But you, o’ king and loving toward all.

Give to the north your hand and heart with glee,

Never to let go of your greatest vow:

To be true and faithful in all your deeds.

 

MARIUS

To you I vow always to be truthful.

Never shall I shirk this given mandate.

To all who give their just and wise counsel,

I attend with heed to what I must do.

For you, dear soul art a blessing to me,

Showing pure what love can bring to us all.

Tis more than love that I have learned from you,

But loving those who give not back the same.

Such is the duty of this great station.

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE II. St. Karlsburg. The throne room of Ottosgrad palace.

It is the day of King Marius’ coronation. The noble lords, courtiers, clergy, and royal family are congregated within the throne room at Ottosgrad. King Marius dons royal attire. 

 

REZA ELIZAVETA

At last the day of accession is here!

You shall finally wear the Franciscan crown,

Take the scepter in hand and show to all,

That you will be a king of great courage.

Look in awe dear son, for you now wear gold!

 

(Reza gestures toward the Franciscan Crown, a gold circlet with protruding features each ornately adorned with rubies, sapphires, and diamonds.)

 

MARIUS

Gold I shall wear but worry fills my heart,

For this gold has ruined many a man.

Mine own father was corrupted by it,

And the Kingdom suffered for his great sins.

 

(Marius’ face is filled with worry, but he cannot break his gaze from the crown. Reza places a comforting hand on his shoulder.)

 

REZA ELIZAVETA

Remember my son, you are not Andrik.

 

MARIUS

Truly mother, my father I am not.

My people look upon me with great hope;

For their sake and mine own, I must triumph.

 

(The crowd quiets as Rory Othaman, Bishop of St. Karlsburg, processions to the throne followed closely behind by altar boys and the nobles of the realm.)

 

RORY OTHAMAN

Kneel, King, and accept the blessing of God.

 

(Marius kneels, beads of sweat forming on his brow. Rory turns to an altar boy, and dips his thumb into a glass vessel filled with oil.)

 

RORY OTHAMAN

Be now blesséd by this holy chrism,

O King, chosen by God to rule us all.

Let no evil into thy heart, for you

Shall walk with the Almighty as your guide.

 

(Rory draws a Lorraine cross with the oil on Marius’ forehead. He then takes the Franciscan Crown and holds it above Marius’ head.)

 

RORY OTHAMAN

Swear thee now, King, to serve dutifully

And, with whole of mind and body, protect

Thy subjects who gather now before thee?

To uphold justice, strike down evil men,

Strive for peace between brothers and nations,

And hold in great esteem the laws of God?

 

MARIUS

So I swear.

 

(Rory lowers the crown onto Marius’ head, then steps back. Marius rises.)

 

RORY OTHAMAN

Long live the King!

 

REZA ELIZAVETA

Long live the King!

 

(The Crowd cheers and continues the chant until Marius raises his hands to signal for silence.)

 

MARIUS

Whether this life be brief or storied thus,

To my leal vassals, I stand in your midst,

To proclaim to you a firm and resolute realm.

Now that the drums of war have been ceased,

Our people shall commit ourselves thusly:

To strengthen this kingdom with unity.

Let us rebuild honorable custom,

And the respect that every man is due.

It is the cause of every Haeseni,

To fulfill their destiny under God,

Honoring our fathers with sacrifice,

Reaping the harvest of honest labor,

And leaving bounties when we are in graves.

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE III. St. Karlsburg. Marius’ office within Ottosgrad palace. 

It is early yet in Marius’ reign, and already he makes plans to meet with Lords Amador and Ruthern to settle a dispute between them. He waits in the royal office with his newly appointed Chancellor, Lukas Vanir, and his brother Otto Heinrik.

 

MARIUS

Come, Lukas, and tell me thus: that you have

Grown accustomed to your new position.

Few men may boast of such a rise as yours,

From lowly mayor to noble Chancellor!

You are surely proud of your achievement.

 

LUKAS VANIR

Ambition is not my wont, my lord King.

I desire only to serve the Kingdom;

The Greater Man places her above all.

 

MARIUS

A comfort, indeed, to hear you say so.

Lacking faith in one’s councilor brings no

Rest to one’s heart, but know that I place my

Trust in you to serve this Crown loyally.

Tell me, for what purpose have we been called?

 

LUKAS VANIR

To rule on a dispute as regards the

Barony of Marbrand, seated between

Lords Metterden and Mondstadt who presently

Make way to your majesty’s grand office.

 

(A knock at the door.)

 

MARIUS

Whence is that knocking? Come, let us see you.

 

(Enter Boris Ruthern and Owyn Amador)

 

MARIUS

My lords, what troubles bring you here to-day?

 

BORIS

My liege, here is a villain and a traitor

Who, by his own greed, seeks to take from me

That which was granted by Petyr the King.

My royal sovereign, my claim over

the Greyspine Gate and my duty to guard it,

A duty in which I have not failed thee,

Are now both besieged by Lord Amador.

An Owl he is assuredly not,

For the lowest of rats alone cause such

Havoc betwixt Haeseni brothers.

 

OWYN

My noble King, thou mustn’t listen to

These false charges; truer words have come from

The mouths of pagan Norlanders, who kill

Freely and worship a false flaming God.

Baron Marbrand has faith not in Lord Ruthern,

For the shark has shown it will bite whatever

It must to attain its true goal, the crown.

Why then should any man serve the will of

A lord who himself acts in poor faith?

Be wary, my liege, for even now the

Traitor conspires to take from thee thy throne.
 

BORIS

You clay-brained fool! Damn’d be your family!

I ought to strike you down where you stand, knave!

 

LUKAS VANIR

We are in His Majesty’s company!

Neither the dwarves of Urguan nor the

Elves of Haelun’or carry themselves so!

Raise you again your voice in aggression,

And cursed be the day you choose to do so.

Now step back and allow us to discuss.

 

(Boris and Owyn scowl at Lukas, but silence themselves and step away whilst Lukas speaks in a lowered voice to Marius.)

 

LUKAS VANIR

See how they bear themselves, Your Majesty,

As though crowned with allegiance and good faith?

I am of one mind with your Lord Uncle,

You must never allow your vassals to

Dictate your actions unto you, my King.

Regardless, this dispute has all signs of

Peril, should either man feel insulted.

Sire, assign an envoy to speak in

Your name to keep you, in their hearts, friendly.

 

(Marius nods. Lukas motions for Boris and Owyn to return within earshot.)

 

MARIUS

Lords Mondstadt, Metterden, be calm I say.

This issue is of great import to us,

And it is our interest to see it solved.

Our brother Otto who has our respect,

For he has done a great many things to

Earn it, shall intercede on our behalf

And bring to resolution this matter.

None shall interfere in our goal to build

A resolute realm; you will accept his

Decision, whatever it may be.

 

BORIS

Thank you, my liege.

 

OWYN

Most gracious of you, sire.

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE IV. St. Karlsburg. The throne room of Ottosgrad palace.

Marius sits in court, speaking with his gathered nobles and family.

 

(Enter Sergeant)

 

SERGEANT

Pardon for the interruption, my King.

Lord Reeve Brawm seeks admittance to your majesty.

 

MARIUS

We’ll give him present audience. Bring him.

 

(Enter Reeve Brawm)

 

MARIUS

What message have you from our lord Houndsden?

 

REEVE BRAWM

Thus says my lord: To Marius King of Haense,

Knave, polisher of Imperial boots,

Only contempt and slight regard for you.

Here lays our demand: full independence

And freedom from your tyrannical shackles.

No longer shall Hound lick the feet of the Crow,

Who is unworthy of the crown it bears.

In the name of my lord and our house,

 

(Reeve Brawm removes his left glove, tossing it at Marius’ feet. Gathered nobles and courtiers gasp in surprise.)

 

There lies our challenge to this mockery

That fools may call the Kingdom of Haense.

What message shall I return to Houndsden?

 

(Marius picks up the glove and looks at it before responding.)

 

MARIUS

To your master say thus: that we accept

His challenge and take arms against him.

Houndsden shall regret this folly, see his

Mistake, and regret the day he chose

To turn his back on us, who have only

Defended him to this court of our peers.

Accused of tyranny, what nonsense.

The only present mockery is his,

The ruin he has but guaranteed for his house.

Our response shall be like thunder, an earthquake,

So hot an answer of it that all shall

Return his mock and the people of Haense

Shall see our actions as matching to his

Frivolous and unwarranted insult.

Leave now, tell your master what we have said.

 

REEVE BRAWM

I shall deliver so. Thanks to your highness.

 

(Reeve bows and exits.)

 

MARIUS

What say you, Uncle Vasiland? Are the

Armies of Hanseti-Ruska prepared

To face this threat which has reared its ugly head?

 

BRYNDEN VANIR

Your soldiers stand willing and ready, sire.

As do your loyal lords who gather here

To-day, who shall stand with you to-morrow,

And ev’ry day thereafter until these

Traitors are brought before God Almighty.

 

SERGEI II

Your Majesty, most humbly I request

The lead of the vanguard against these dogs,

Who have mine own family harassed and

Now make war against thy most august crown.

 

MARIUS

Take it, Carnatia, lead us to glory.

Vasiland, Metterden, Ayr, great lords all,

Raise your banners and rally your forces

For we shall make war on these dogs of Brawm!

 

BRYNDEN, ADOLPHUS, SERGEI, OWYN, and BORIS

To war!

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE V. Houndsden. The royal command tent in the siege camp.

Marius, Lukas, Brynden Vanir, Adolphus, Sergei II, and Otto Marius have all gathered within the royal command tent in the Houndsden siege camp.

 

ADOLPHUS

Mighty is your artillery, my liege!

For even now the dogs within the fort

Cower in fear and await their slaughter!

 

OTTO MARIUS

Tis a shame that men of Courland should die

After, by trickery, entering the fort.

 

BRYNDEN VANIR

A shame, nay, an honor my Lord Baruch!

Long have my kin clashed with those of Staunton!

We know well their penchant for deception

And their love of war and all things evil.

 

OTTO MARIUS

Aye, you speak truly, my Lord Vasiland.

Never again can the white eagle be

Allowed to spread its wings across the land.

 

(Enter Rory Othaman, sweaty and armored.)

 

RORY OTHAMAN

The enemy’s wall has crumbled, my liege.

Your soldiers, with hardened heart and clenched fist,

Stand ready to attack and take the fort.

 

MARIUS

Then take it, Lord Bishop, as you have said.

Bring us victory. God be with you all.

 

(Exeunt Lords after bowing. Marius breaks composure and kneels before a cross.)

 

MARIUS

O God above who watches over us all,

Steel my soldiers’ hearts, take from them doubt and

Fear, for those shall bring them death in battle.

Rather, grant them to this thy leal servant.

Is this then the true weight of the crown?

Men shall live and die by my command, and

Yet I know not whether my acts are just.

My grandsire did nobly fight and win war,

Forming this crown which now rests on my head.

Did he ne’er doubt himself? When taking arms

Or striking men with steel, did he not care

For the widows made from his ambition?

Of mine own father, a veteran of war,

Songs are sung of his conquests and glory,

Yet guilt did not preclude his violence.

Why then hast thou chosen me, mighty God,

Who withers and writhes with guilt and conscience?

 

(Marius pauses, staring at the cross for a moment.)

 

But this is not mine to question why,

But to do as you have commanded me.

This I know to be true, that for the better

Or for the worst, the crown rests upon my

Head, and I am King of Hanseti-Ruska.

Such is the burden that I must carry.

 

(Enter Sergei with blood on armor and sword.)

 

SERGEI II

The flag of surrender is raised, my King!

The castle has fallen to our great arms!

 

MARIUS

And how many among us do lie dead?

 

SERGEI II

But one of the eight thousand whom you sent.

A slight amount, Your Majesty. Minor.

 

(Marius nods, Sergei bows then exits.)

 

MARIUS

One thousand more orphans, yet slight he says..

 

(Exit Marius. Scene closes.)

 

 

ACT III

 

SCENE I. St. Karlsburg. The throne room in Ottosgrad palace.

Some years have passed since the Brawm Rebellion. Marius wraps up a diplomatic meeting in court with Prince Merric Staunton in hopes of reducing tensions with Courland.

 

(Enter Marius, Merric Staunton, Diedrik, and Lukas.)

 

MERRIC STAUNTON

Great words between us, royal brother!

I’ll report to my kingly coz that you

Peace have invested in, that no more blood

Be shed for any cause between our realms.

 

DIEDRIK BARROW

(Quietly to Lukas)

How low the crow does fly to treat with such?

Why entertain the scum of Courland, they

Who unjustly buried our great Empire?

 

LUKAS VANIR

Your tongue is rough. Pray the King does not hear,

Or pray that it should fall from your mouth,

Lest you lose more than you wish to part with.

Peace is the wish of all, both Man and God.

When has our sovereign led us astray?

 

DIEDRIK BARROW

(Quietly to self)

What fools do wear the crown to lead us all!

Peace should not so dull a Kingdom, its swords

Must not rust, nor its people grow lazy.

Would that these twits see this friendship is naught,

These praises covering ambition with

A coat of humility and finesse.

Tis now that defenses ought to be made,

Soldiers fitted and armed, forts brought up.

War will come upon the land once more, brought

By the talons of Courlandic eagle.

Did not these Courlanders send aid to Brawm

When those dogs bit the hands which fed them?

Pure truth must surface and be made known lest

Death will, with his great scythe, cut down all here.

The instrument of truth I shall be, and

Strike down with my blade this disguised devil!

 

(Diedrik pulls out a dagger from under his cloak, stabbing Merric in front of the court. Merric collapses, dead.)

 

MARIUS

You fool! Know you what disaster this brings?

 

DIEDRIK BARROW

I have only done that which is good for Haense.

 

MARIUS

Arrest the murderer, and bring here a

Priest to inter a man who would be our friend.

 

(Guards arrest Diedrik. Exit soldiers and Diedrik with Merric’s body.)

 

MARIUS

(To Lukas)

Ambassadors to Courland send, that peace

May yet be saved despite the blood spilled here

To-day, that it may not all be in vain.

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE II. Cloud Temple. A round table within a peaceful grotto.

After the murder of Merric Staunton, Tobias and Marius meet for a diplomatic council on the grounds of the Cloud Temple. Tensions are high, as a less-than-successful meeting could result in world war.

 

TOBIAS

My people will not be cowed by your threats,

Nor will they quake at the drawing of steel,

For Courlanders are made of sterner stuff

As shall be witnessed should we come to blows!

 

MARIUS

Stay your hand, my royal brother Courland.

Your coz Merric and I were of one mind,

That ne’er again can war destroy our realms,

So our princes may be not captiv’d by

The black hand of Death, servant of Iblees.

 

TOBIAS

If, King of Hanseti, you would the peace,

Whose lack gives home to these imperfections

Which you have naively explained to us,

Then now explain you must why Merric lies

In eternal slumber beneath the dirt.

Brother he was to us, confidante when

Discretion was demanded of us.

As friend no equal did he have, no man

As gracious nor as loved was he by all.

Why then lies he with worms below our feet,

Whilst you, who brought his death, walk free with life?

 

MARIUS

The crime of which you speak was done not in

My name, but by a fool, a rogue who acts

For self and pride, who wants above all, war.

Put to arrest he was, executed

For justice and in furtherance of peace.

Thy cousin was accordant with my want,

My aspiration for peace between us.

Scorn not his memory through thy pursuit

Of war, rather honor his sacrifice.

Let his blood mark a new beginning for

Our realms, a path towards great prosperity.

 

TOBIAS

To yet place my trust in the King would be

To treat with men who but ten years prior

Raised arms against my realm in defense of

Horen and their great crimes against the world,

Who stomped upon the necks of the uruks,

Who burnt Savoy out of spite for their lord,

Who sought to end the line of the dwarf kings!

Desire not my people to return to

The ways of the Imperium Quintus,

Yet I believe with all my heart that you

Yearn for these days of old in which you ruled.

How then can I with good conscience believe

That you do not aim to restore Horen?

 

MARIUS

Loyal service I gave, for that’s my oath.

When I, like all, am interred in the ground,

To rest with my father and all before,

With me shall go no gold, nor silk, nor jewels.

All these and more may be taken from me,

But my honor shall be mine forever.

Shame to him who leaves this life with dishonor,

For his stain shall not be made clean in death.

To quit my liege in his hour of great need

Would so sully my soul that no good deed

Would wipe away the shame of my deceit.

How then can you say, ‘I do not trust you’?

By my acts I have shown my commitment

To all pacts which shall bear my signature.

My one concern henceforth will be to guard

My people, from youngest child to oldest man.

What reason then have I to lie to you?

In spite of your lack of faith in my words,

I will offer to send envoys to thee,

So that swords may stay sheathed and words shall then

Resolve conflicts that rise between our realms.

This I say to ease thy mistrust of me,

So you may see my heart is pure and true.

 

TOBIAS
Not out of love shall I agree to this,

But in remembrance of my sweet cousin.

Fare thee well, brother Hanseti-Ruska.

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE III. St. Karlsburg. The throne room of Ottosgrad palace.

Months after the diplomatic council, ambassadors have gone back and forth between Courland and Haense, ensuring the tense peace between them remains in place. Marius stands in Ottosgrad, speaking to Rory, Sergei, Otto Heinrik, and Brynden Vanir.

 

(Enter Lukas.)

 

LUKAS VANIR

Grave news my liege, for in pursuit of peace

Sent I Count Metterden to see Staunton

And in this endeavor, death has taken him.

 

MARIUS

Murdered? God preserve us, all will be lost!

A babe, fresh from the womb, was our new peace,

Fragile and new to this world’s cruelties,

Protected only by good will of men,

Smothered now whilst laying within its crib!

Give me your thoughts my lords, what should be done?

 

RORY OTHAMAN

An opportunity given by God,

Planted at the feet of one who must answer.

His Holiness shall place God’s grace on us,

Should we, with all expedience, make war

On Aleksandria who dare appoint

A false Pontiff in challenge to His Grace.

Tears shall be shed for Count Metterden, yet

Others will follow if we idle and

Permit this hope for justice to slip us by.

Hear me, gracious sovereign, and you peers,

That owe yourselves your lives to this grand cause,

That what was torn asunder may be new,

And be re-united under our God.

I speak, of course, of our Imperium,

Risen from the flames of our holy war.

Gracious lord, stand for what is your duty,

Unfurl your flags of war as your forebears

Did for generations before you and

Restore Humanity from fallen state

To life in our Holy Oren Empire.

 

MARIUS

To breathe new life into Humanity

Is my solemn duty, but to declare

On brother Courland for Orenia?

A hypocrite would I be should I do

What you here now suggest to this grand court.

Marshal Vasiland, speak your mind to us.

 

BRYNDEN VANIR

I am one with your mind that Empire is

Not cause enough to send men to battle.

Yet I agree that war must be declared.

Years have passed since the collapse of House Brawm;

Your peers and soldiers grow tired and restless,

Eager to prove themselves worthy of the

Legacies of their ancestors before.

War will grant them such opportunity,

And make known to the world that Haense remains

Strong as ever to fight all who attack.

 

MARIUS

Brother Otto, where stands your mind on this?

 

OTTO HEINRIK

Your peers lack in caution, royal brother.

Courland is no small dog like that of Brawm.

The wings of the white eagle stretch out far,

Its talons long and sharp, its beak jagged.

Forget not how Horen lost their great crown

At the hands of a mighty coalition

Assembled by the cunning of Staunton.

To war them now would be to risk such fate

Upon us all, to change the maps of the world.

 

MARIUS

Lukas, chancellor, where does your mind fall?

 

LUKAS VANIR

Metterden was no minor peer, my King,

But one of the great houses of the realm.

To not act now would be to turn your back

On those houses which have served you with faith.

Complaints of insincerity will come

After your words in council with Tobias,

But your nobles shall think you weak if you

Fail now to avenge the death of their own.

A tough choice lies before you now, sire.

No matter what decision you shall make,

I am forever your loyal servant.

 

(Marius pauses, thinking to himself.)

 

MARIUS

Let it be war then, and may it be swift.

 

BRYNDEN VANIR

(To other peers gathered)

Raise then banners of war, my lords. Make haste

To call upon your men; let us repeat

The grand subjugation of Houndsden now!

 

(Exeunt all. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE IV. St. Karlsburg. The courtyard of Ottosgrad palace.

After declaring war on Courland, Marius dispatched his army to the forest crossroads of Elba, one of the many pathways into the Kingdom. He paces anxiously within the palace courtyard while waiting for news.

 

(Enter Lukas and Sergeant.)

 

LUKAS VANIR

Here comes now a man who fought at Elba.

 

MARIUS

Come Sergeant, and give your report to us.

 

SERGEANT

My honorable King, I bear ill news,

For though eight thousand stood to fight House Brawm,

Only came four to fight against Courland.

Such ill can only be caused by Vanir,

Who failed in his duty to properly

Maintain and train your host to be ready

For the war which we now find ourselves in.

This gross incompetence and mismanagement

Has made many a man desert his post,

For none of sound mind wish to die for the

Mistakes of another, in command or

In battle, as was the case at Elba.

It was two to one and Courland was fresh,

With full bellies and warm clothing to wear.

Disaster continued as we sought to

Rout their cavalry with our own; in this

We failed and so were forced with all haste to

Quit the field and surrender the ground with shame.

Retreat was costly and we just escaped,

Though not without the loss of many men.

Slaughter it was, the frozen ground turned red

With the blood of the defeated fallen.

 

MARIUS

Oh God, from where have they this mettle?

Are they not from warm and cozy climate?

Their men not raised in lives of great comfort?

From young age are our boys taught to survive,

Yet they now find themselves bested by sheep!

I shall put it out of my mind, it is

No matter, for Metterden now stands tall,

Ready to weather the strikes of Courland.

As the rocks of the coast do with great waves,

So shall our fort withstand assault by men.

 

(Enter Sergei.)

 

SERGEI II

Lies and deceit betray us all my King!

For now Staunton marches his men around

Greyspine Mountains, his aim to siege the fort

At Vasiland and take our coast to build

Routes of supply to feed his vast army!

 

MARIUS

Hubris and vanity cost us this day,

For in our ostentation we failed to

Properly fortify our coast, a sin

That shall cause us great pains in this conflict!

Scurry yourself and what soldiers remain

To Vasiland to garrison the fort.

I too shall go with you, to be a beacon

Of hope and raise the spirits of my men

Who, soon enough, shall fight in defense of

This crown I wear which makes men call me King.

 

LUKAS VANIR

To permit you leave would be to put your

Life in grave harm, my King, too great a risk

Does this pose to our realm that I, with all

Intensity must refuse your desire.

You must, for the sake of us all, remain.

 

MARIUS

Accept then I your judgment of my mind.

In safety I shall stay while Carnatia

Commands the defense of our eastern land.

Spare neither cost nor time, do what you must.

Bring victory so we may see another day.

 

(Exit all. Scene closes.)

 

 

ACT IV

 

SCENE I. St. Karlsburg. The throne room of Ottosgrad palace. 

Marius waits in St. Karlsburg, anxiously waiting for news of the Siege of Vasiland. 

 

(Enter Lukas, Otto Heinrik, all Haeseni Lords, bloody and defeated.)

 

MARIUS

Lukas, Chancellor, friend, what news have you?

Has our tactic played out as we intended?

 

LUKAS VANIR

Reproach, ruin, and shame, Your Majesty!

All our ranks are broke; men flee for their lives.

Fire, the enemy artillery did,

At our walls which could not withstand such a

Barrage of stone and flame, and came crashing

 To the earth, scores of men following them.

Die well they did not, and there shall be many

In Haense to-day lacking husband, father, or son.

Woe to us who sent these men to their end!

Once more back again to the field we must go,

To die with honor and fall beside the

Men whose souls now rest with the saints above!

 

MARIUS

Stay your hand, gentle Lukas, for God still

Has purpose for you and us fellows all.

Defeated in battle we may be, but

Fulfill I must the duties of the crown.

Proclaim it through my host and my realm that

Purses shall be made for flight to Mardon,

That none who wish to live in subjugation

Must do so, and may rather join us in

That southern asylum which we must call home.

Shame and dishonor may follow me for

The rest of my life, but my people shan’t

Suffer for the mistakes of their ruler.

Go and do it now, quickly.

 

OTTO HEINRIK

It shall be done, your highness. God bless you.

 

(Exeunt lords with a bow except Lukas.)

 

LUKAS VANIR

And as regards the war, my sovereign?

 

MARIUS

Send messengers to Courland for Staunton.

Peace shall, nay, must be made no matter the cost.

 

(Exit Lukas with a bow.)

 

MARIUS

(buries his face in his hands, weeping)

May Almighty God have mercy on me.

 

(Exit Marius. Scene closes.)

 

SCENE II. Mardon. A street-side bench within the city.

Some time has passed since the flight to Mardon. A peace treaty was signed giving away all Haeseni territory to Courland, but Marius retained the titles of King of Hanseti and Ruska. He sits alone on a bench in the city, bottle of wine in hand.

 

MARIUS

In all of life’s woes, no comfort is found:

Let’s speak of crumbled stone and ashen flags,

Of hollow armor where knights once adorned.

Inscribe sorrow on graves of our fallen.

For when we join them, our last wills are read.

And yet at our death, what do we pass down?

Nothing shall remain but our memory.

Our lands, our lives, our homes are all Staunton’s,

Nothing left we call our own but demise,

And all the shallow graves of distant lands,

Which are final rest to our flesh and bones.

For God’s sake, let us sit where we so please

And share sad stories of the death of kings:

How some overthrown or slain in battle,

Some cursed by the sins of their father’s deeds,

Some poison’d by their queens, or killed by fate.

All struck dead whilst wearing the weighty crown,

That gilded vice taking the king hostage,

Where death awaits and lingers all around,

Taunting his state and cursing his first born. 

Yet life gives him leave to suffer a while,

Allowing him time to govern in vain,

Entrapping him in duty before death,

As if this body were made of stern stuff.

When he finally feels safe and secure,

Death comes at last to shame his vain conceit.

Like a trebuchet in the dark of night,

At a moment’s release, bores through his keep,

And alas they shall say, “O’ farewell king.”

For death is truly our fate’s great master,

Mocking our fragile lives at any time.

But for now, let me not think of duty,

Mandate, ceremony, or tradition,

For you have mistaken me all this time.

I suffer like you, grieve much, long for hope: 

How can any of you say I am king?

 

(Marius sips from the bottle, then falls off the bench dead.)

 

FIN

 

 

 

QUARTUS AUREA BULLA JORENUS

THE FOURTH GOLDEN BULL OF JORENUS

7th of Sun’s Smile, 1856 | 7th of Tov & Yermey, 409 ES.

 

HIS HOLINESS EVERARD VI, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD does decree…

TABLE OF CONTENTS

┏━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┓

SECTION I - Diocesan Appointments

┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛

 

 

SECTION I

 

Through Our Apostolic authority, We do confirm the following appointments:

 

DIOCESE OF REINMAR, encompassing the lands to the south and west of the Capital City of Karosgrad, shepherded by Adelric Bishop Reinmar.

 

DIOCESE OF FREIMARK, encompassing the County of Freimark and surrounding lands, shepherded by Erhard Bishop Freimark.

☩AD MAIOREM DEI GLORIAM☩

FOR THE GREATER GLORY OF GOD

 

On 1/17/2022 at 2:17 PM, MapleSunflower said:

snip

 

A monk in a sackcloth robe dropped a letter off at Primrose's residence. Upon inspection, the red wax on the envelope would display the seal of the Holy See, the personal coat of arms of Everard VI.

 

"To Doctor Primrose Gendik,

 

Thank you for writing Us. We are always pleased to hear from members of Our flock, and are happy to address the concerns that you listed in your letter. Before We address them however, let Us first personally thank you for your assistance during the attempt on Our life in Providence. Know that We have kept you in Our prayers since that day, and hope that you remain in good health.

 

Firstly, let Us state that excommunication is not something that We give unjustly. All who We have excommunicated have committed a great evil in one way or another. Simon Pruvia, one of Our first excommunications, was discovered to be a servant of Azdromoth. Your former husband, Arlo Cooper, was guilty of attempting to murder Cardinal Basil. Philip and Anastasia, who We have excommunicated twice now, schismed, tried to take Our life, and conspired to take the life of Philip Aurelian in order to seize the Orenian throne.

 

When We issued Our latest excommunication of Philip and Anastasia, We made it clear that this excommunication was only for them directly, and for those who cursed the Church or betrayed it for issuing this just judgement. We recognize that there are many within the Empire who remain quiet and serve for survival, not because they are willing to ignore the crimes of Philip and Anastasia. We understand that survival is a a basic human instinct, one that is ingrained within each and every one of us.

 

However, faith demands us to grow beyond Our instincts. After all, can it be instinct that causes us to believe in a God that We cannot see, or one we cannot hear unless He reveals Himself to us? Then, all Canonists have a choice: continue as they have for survival's sake, or put their faith in the same God that created us all and work to see His justice prevail. We would urge all who read this letter to choose the latter, for their reward in the Seven Skies shall be great.

 

To answer your question, We cannot rightfully judge those who choose the former, unless they do so whilst committing blasphemy or preaching heresy. There is a great difference between quietly surviving and loudly supporting the Anathemata. While We shall not excommunicate those who signed their name to that letter, We shall also keep close watch to see who has done so for survival, and who has done so to blaspheme against God or against the Church. Unless your husband has done the latter, he shall not be excommunicated.

 

As for the matter of the allegations against Charlotte Augusta, you can trust that We shall be conducting an investigation into the matter, as We conducted an investigation into the accusation of attempted murder against the Anathemata. Should Our investigation conclude that such an event occurred, then you may be assured that Our reaction shall be swift.

 

Keep God in your heart always, and know that Our enemy is and always shall be evil and injustice. May God bless you, and grant you peace.

 

Pontifex Maximus

Everardus Sextus"

To Presbyter Ileana,

 

We shall pray for your swift recovery, as this recent influx of fanmail that We have received is too much for Us to handle alone. Return as soon as is possible.

 

Pontifex Maximus,

Everardus Sextus

To Father Trevor,

 

Let Us set the record straight then: Owyn is a farfolk.

 

Pontifex Maximus,

Everardus Sextus

To whoever wrote this,

 

We hate this.

 

Pontifex Maximus,

Everardus Sextus

To Father Stor,

 

Thank you for your letter. If you wish to retrieve a copy, please issue a request to the Pontifical Librarian, Presbyter Ileana. We have not yet had a chance to deliver the Handbook of Sin to Father Clemens yet either.

 

Pontifex Maximus,

Everardus Sextus

PONTIFICAL LETTER

WRIT OF DISSOLUTION: 

OF THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY

 

Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction.

 

We have issued many dissolutions during Our pontificate, yet each brings to Us the same amount of sorrow as the last. We truly believe in the holiness of Marriage, yet understand that there are circumstances in which unions are insupportable and cannot continue. Therefore, We hereby declare the union of Prince Andrik Nikolas and Princess Nikoleta Barbara, void, dissolved on grounds of the risk of harm to and endangerment of parties within the marriage. All children produced by the marriage shall remain legitimate before God's eyes.

 

We do pray for each of the pair and hereby demand that each seek Our permit before entering any future unions. May God bless them.

 

Dei gratia,

Sanctitas, Papa Everardus Sextus

☩AD MAIOREM DEI GLORIAM☩

FOR THE GREATER GLORY OF GOD

 

 

 

 

Fifteenth of Harren's Folly, 1855

 

To Father Harold,

 

Thank you for your letter. Our polos are Our favorite casual wear, and We would hate to lose them. We shall send an acolyte soon to collect them.

 

Pontifex Maximus,

Everardus Sextus

40

PONTIFICAL LETTER

WRIT OF ANNULMENT: 

OF THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY

 

Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction.

 

We write this declaration from Our most Holy Office with sorrow to hear of the dismantling of a union which has lasted many years. Marriage remains one of humanity’s holiest sacraments, inspired through the example of the Exalted Horen and Saint Julia. Yet, after close investigation and discussion, We have come to the conclusion that this union cannot continue. Therefore, We hereby declare the union of Count Vladrick Kortrevich and Lady Margot Baruch, void, annulled on the grounds of their marriage being unconsummated and of marital abandonment, with the spouses not having even spoken to each other for many years.

 

We do pray for each of the pair and hereby demand that each seek Our permit before entering any future unions. May God bless them.

 

Dei gratia,

Sanctitas, Papa Everardus Sextus

☩AD MAIOREM DEI GLORIAM☩

FOR THE GREATER GLORY OF GOD

 

 

 

 

Tenth of Godfrey’s Triumph, 1855

 

Everard sighs upon reading the letter, but gets to work writing letters and arranging meetings.