JuliusAakerlund

FROM ME, TO ALL OF YOU 2025 HAPPY HOLIDAYS Hello LoTC! It's been a few years since I made one of these. To most of you, I am a stranger, to some, I’m an acquaintance, and to others, I’m a friend. But to all of you, I’m a fellow community member. It is during this rare period of the year, when spirits are high, that I’d like to take some time to reflect. We’ve come far since 2011, and the fact that we’re still here today was not something I foresaw or expected. I joined this server after being uninterested in roleplay. My friends goaded me into it. I made a promise to them that I would only join if the server accepted my application, an application so bad that no server I’d ever played on before would accept it. There was Dragonborn level bad and mother blowing up into confetti… but for some ungodly reason, I was accepted (to my dismay at the time). Here I am today, one of the few who stayed behind and a relic of a past that mostly exists in memory. In the end, most of those whom I called friends back then are no longer around, going out into life to make something of themselves. I had originally intended to join them, yet the magic of this place always kept me around even in the harshest of times. Though I am in a way better place today than I was back then, I genuinely love this community; what we do together is nothing short of inspiring. We like to fight over the minuscule, to harp at each other over allegiances, yet deep within I know we’ve all a shared passion. This story, this universe, this community was created by us, and no matter our differences, that cannot be taken from us. While I’m unusually free to express my emotions, I'd like to take a moment to thank you all for what you’ve done for me. Some of you might never have thought it something consequential, some little interaction, a simple hello on a normal weekday, but to others, it can make all the difference. It certainly did for me. So, to honor the holiday spirit and to remind ourselves that life is short but sweet. Let’s set aside our differences and remember the good rather than the bad. Let’s share here in this post what the server and its community have done for us. May the future be brighter, and let’s hope for a better tomorrow, as well as build it with our own hands. I personally think there is something beautiful in that. We all have the strength to be the change we want to see in the world. Remember that you are all loved and appreciated <3 Sincerely, thanks for everything Julius Aakerlund I would like to thank a few specific people while I have the chance, those I cherish like brothers and sisters. As well as those close friends I have made here, or some who made a difference, even if they may not realize it. If I miss anyone, don’t take it personally. All the people who have done good by me have made me into the person I am today. I can only say thank you and that you have a wonderful 2026. In no specific order. @erictafoya @sarahbarah @Xarkly @Sandman_Plays @HogoBojo @krispeechips @Gandhi @Smol @HIGH_FIRE @Tremerus @milkyi @The Vulgate Cycle @tcs_tonsils_ @LuxyLucy @Cheese @giambro @crazedpudding @Kaii @Wavey @PrinceJose270 @JuztLizzy Hyperion @Kaladin Stormblessed @RaijenStars @Coolcod77 @Blake0205 @Parasolii @scarahpot @CasChaos @Lalosia @Lirinya @Lenny @Lortime @Minth_11 Adrian @Limo_man @Dyl @ErosTea @Crusteh Snipertje @annabanana1014 @Dogged @yopplwasupxxx @Linde @Hawkeye_Gough @Dinochad @Fionn__TWG @Totalitarianism_ @Ark @Cracker @Ioannis @MutatedPotato @CelestialMochi @Koodini @Sladetricity @psychra_notte @Frawlic @Birdnerdy @Vermy @puffables @Cally @zuziee @Borin @pkdon @MadOne @Milenkhov @Security_ @Ticklem0nster @Imperium @Eddywilson2 @Legoboy7984 @Piov @seannie @cruzazul @Maiyun(hopefully the right one) @ItsMisterPip @jihsoo @Marthia @Capt_Chief26 @EnderMaiashiro @Frymark Iver Mectin @CopOwl @Laeonathan @ivery

A PLEA TO FAMILY Peace Upon You and Your Kin @Zora_T Grace and all good greetings in the Lord Creator and His Exalted. Astrid, I set my hand to this letter in the hope of furthering one simple end: that we may yet speak together. Not for gain of land nor favor at court, nor for any worldly profit, do I write; but only that there might be between us some plain discourse, face to face, as befits those sprung from one stock. I remember you, as a small child in our hall, when your feet scarcely reached the rushes, and your hand clung to your nurse’s gown. In those days, there was in your eyes a brightness and a gentleness that moved the hearts of all who beheld you. Though the years have set a long road betwixt your sight and mine, as I favoured your marriage and until now, I cannot think that such light is wholly spent. The vicissitudes of this world, though they beat upon us like winter storms upon the field, cannot utterly wash away that which the Lord Himself has planted in a soul. Of this I am as sure as I am of the rising of the sun and the mercy of the Creator. Wherefore I am sore troubled to hear that you deem me, and those of your own house and lineage, to bear you ill intent. Are we not of one blood? Do we not carry the same name upon our seals and banners? In us all runs the blood of Saint Carr, of whose life both priest and chronicler attest that the Lord and His servants found him a man worthy of remembrance. For his sake, and for the honor of our forebears, we strive to uphold the virtues handed down to us: Honor, selflessness, and the defense of the innocent and the weak. Think you then that we, who call upon Saint Carr as our patron, would stoop to the sin of guestslaying? God forfend. We are not such as lure our own blood into snares, nor are we cast­ers of stones against those whom we once took in our arms and named as our own, nor guest or witness. The house that does such deeds calls down judgment upon itself, both from Heaven and from man, and I will not see our line so stained while breath is in my body. I ask you plainly, therefore: what cause have you to hide yourself from us as from enemies in times of war? If there has been some fault in our conduct toward you, some word or deed that was unworthy of family, I beg you to set it forth, that we may know it and answer for it. I am a man and may err; our kin are but men and women and may err likewise. Yet no wrong may be righted while it lies in darkness, and no misunderstanding may be mended if it is not spoken. In our summons to you, there lies no hidden snare, but a simple plea: that you will consent to appear before those of your own blood and name, that you may tell your cause and set forth your part in this matter. That is the least courtesy owed to any soul, and most especially to a kinswoman. It is, too, the smallest of honors—that a person be heard before judgment is made. I am told that in your heart, you have fashioned your belief that our minds are already fixed against you, and that nothing you might say could turn us. Know then that this is not so. We are not yet resolved beyond all turning, save only in this: that you must be heard. If you think our summons some trap laid against your life or liberty, I charge you, lay aside that fear. For your ease and comfort, I do now swear, as I swear each morning and night before the Lord Creator and His Exalted, that any who come at my word under this summons shall go forth again unharmed in body, as they came—just as it was upon Lemon Hill, when all who stood under its peace departed under it also. I cannot promise you the full issue of our council, for I am but one voice among many of our blood, and each must answer before God according to conscience. Your acts and the testimonies concerning them must be weighed, and in this, no man may pledge what the whole company shall decree. Yet this much I do bind upon my soul and upon the honor of our house: that you shall have safe-conduct to come and safe-conduct to depart; that none, by my will or sufferance, shall lay violent hand upon you while you stand under my word; and that you shall be heard without interruption, mockery, or threat. If you will not believe my bare word, then let the memory of Lemon Hill stand witness. There, when men feared blood would surely flow, all held their hands and kept their oath; and not one who trusted in that promise was betrayed. What was done there before God and men, I am ready to do again, and more, for you who are of our own line. Consider well, Astrid, what it is to bear a name and lineage in this frail world. Houses rise and fall; lands may pass to strangers; yet kin, once set at variance, leave a scar that endures longer than stone. I would not that, in time to come, clerks should write in their books that the children of Saint Carr hid from each other for reasons beyond me, when a simple meeting and a few honest words might have stayed the wound. Therefore, I beseech you as your elder and your kinsman: come forth from hiding, not as one dragged in chains, but as a lady walking under her own will and under the surety of my pledge. Bring with you such witnesses, counselors, or servants as you deem needful for your comfort and safety. Choose, if you will, a place and hour fitting to your conscience, and I shall not gainsay it, so that only speech may pass between us and not steel. Should any come to harm by someone's hand, may that man or woman be cut down, may the church condemn them. May the Lord Creator incline your heart to peace and not to fear, and may Saint Carr, our patron, intercede that we may yet be reconciled in some measure, or at least that truth be known between us. Signed by your kinsman, Davyd Edzar Colborn

I kneel to you the lord of Vaults

I have outgrown this vicious cycle. I am Zen.

Erik Edvard sat within a Mori Castle far beneath the very earth as the news made their way to him. The Underdark was a dark place already but grew only darker the moment his eyes landed on parchment, his father had passed, and he and his brethren the last of Savoy--were all that remained. His half of the siblings had never carried the name. It was agreed upon after all that half were to take the surname of the father and the other the surname of the mother. But not once had he not lived up to the Legacy that both Sébastien and his grandfather, Princes of Ashford, had taught him. When finally he stood again he adjusted the eyepatch hung around his features. "I'll join you soon GOD willing. But until then Father, may you watch as I fell the foes of Man even in this darkness. May you watch until the Creator deems me worthy of a warrior's death. May you watch one last time as I shine the glory of the past."

TIZ DRÄGUZ AG HAURULN COMZ PROSPATZ WITH WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE COMES PROSPERITY Issued by THE ROYAL CURATOR On this 7th day of Wzuvar ag Byvca of 574 E.S. ╠═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ The Royal Curator (Herzen Curatzen) serves as the chief curator of Hanseti-Ruska’s history, archives, library, and museum, acting on behalf of the Crown in all matters of knowledge dissemination, maintenance, transcription, protection, and procurement. The Curator also carries the authority of the monarch to liaise with other nations to exchange knowledge outside the borders of Hanseti-Ruska. Owing to the efforts of the current Royal Curator, Davyd Edzar Colborn, the role has expanded. The hope is to create a new office that might facilitate an area of creativity that Haense did not readily support before. Scholars, artists, and artisans. To those whose heart beats with fervor in these areas, we hope only you seek out and apply to the positions below: Incumbent MARGRAVE DAVYD EDZAR COLBORN 557 E.S. - present Incumbent LADY IPERA VAS RUTHERN 574 E.S. - present Incumbent LADY OLGA WEISS & LADY ISABEL VAS RUTHERN 574 E.S. - present The Keepers are appointed from within the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska based on their artistic, artisan, and scholarly skills. They are tasked with maintaining the cultural heritage, royal institutions, and the maintenance and or erection of monuments. Handpicked by the Curator, they are assigned to institutions most suited, wherein they shall manage and maintain their confines. Keepers are expected to maintain and further whatever institutions they are assigned to and are encouraged to promote the spread of culture, and history. They may visit other nations for inspiration and to gather further knowledge. ◆ The Royal Museum & Library - Unassigned ◆ The Royal Museum & Library - Unassigned ◆ The Royal Museum & Library - Unassigned ◆ The Royal Archives - Unassigned ◆ The Royal Archives - Unassigned ◆ The Royal Monuments - Unassigned ◆ The Royal Monuments - Unassigned *This list shall be amended as new keepers are assigned. Incumbent LADY ACELIA COLBORN 574 E.S. - present The Book Czar serves as the main means for the nation to procure various books. Their singular duty is to obtain books through peaceful means and as such can represent the Curator and the nation, for such reasons, and such reasons alone. These duties extend beyond the borders of the nation, and as such, they may make dealings with foreign dignitaries. Unoccupied N/A N/A E.S. - present Reach out to the Royal Curator to seek employment. The Royal Geltisaars, led by the High Geltisaar represent the Curator’s office's explicit interest in gathering treasures, relics, and other such items of cultural or historical significance. They are learned men and women who can fend for themselves in foreign lands and can disable magical traps, or mechanical ones for that matter, as many places that hide anything of worth are unlikely to be unprotected. Their charge however is not theft, and neither are they to delve into any tombs whose people or descendants still keep them. Should one be of adventurous spirit and wish to delve on such journeys while likewise enriching the nation, then consider becoming a Royal Geltisaar. ◆ Geltisaar - Unassigned ◆ Geltisaar - Unassigned ◆ Geltisaar - Unassigned ◆ Geltisaar - Unassigned *This list shall be amended as new geltisaars are assigned. Individuals wishing to serve the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska as either a Keeper or Geltisaar are encouraged to contact the Royal Curator through written correspondence. It is strongly recommended that applicants present evidence of prior experience or demonstrate a connection to the nation and a basic understanding of its culture and history. As mentioned prior, knowledge, wisdom, and creativity-based skills are highly sought after for these positions. ╠═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ SKRALI VOR GUD, HIS EXCELLENCY, DAVYD EDZAR COLBORN Royal Curator of Hanseti-Ruska, Margrave of Kazan, Count of Malkovya, Viscount of Venzia, Baron of Bethlenen, Lord of Herzkar, and Protector and High Chieftain of the Scyflings

"My dearest Dottir, there isn't a moment where you fail to prove your talents." The contemplation came from his study where Davyd leaned back reading the publication.

"Every day Caliope proves her intelligence and creativity. She understands our culture in such a way one would think she was born to it. I can only hope there is more to come." Said Davyd while enjoying the freshly pressed copy he'd been given, while sipping the Koenas Cocoa.

"The traditions run deep as does the will of our people. Magnus has relight the torch of his bloodline. I only hope it never runs out, not now, not ever." Davyd said while overlooking the view of the Scyfling March from atop Sacred Mount Terukan.

MEADENFEST DRINK MEAD AND MAKE MERRY The Meadenfest Festival Grounds in Haense. [THE EVENT IS ON SATURDAY 21st, 4 PM EST] Published from the Margraviate of Kazan ISSUED ON THE 6ND OF WZUVAR AG BYVCA, 561 E.S. O’ GUD, VOR HJELP I GYNE ERE, It is with great delight that I can announce the hosting of Meadenfest within the festive grounds of Haense. It was only some saints days ago when the original festival was to be held. However, due to rallying in the defense and aid of our allies, we postponed the festivities since happiness is not ours and ours alone, but rather something to be shared. We hope these same allies join us in the festive spirit as the peace has been restored. Meadenfest, at its core, is a social affair where the many good folk of the realm gather in drink, each other's company, and enjoy warmth during the contrasting cold. Scyflings have often filled the wintery months with many such experiences; otherwise, one remains a prisoner within the cold confines of one's home. To our people, this occasion is one of our most prominent, and we hope to share it with you all. All Descendants unblemished by the Shadow, evil, or banditry are invited. Let us put aside our differences and enjoy this rare Krugsmas Truce. The Meaden Tent and stage, where all are free to gather to eat, drink and enjoy performances. THE MEADEN TENT & STAGE During Meadenfest, one can find free food and drink to enjoy amongst boisterous company within the Meaden Tent, which is situated not far from the fairgrounds entrance. Just within viewing distance is the stage where anyone might perform, play music, or otherwise entertain the growing crowd. At the same time, visitors and locals alike are encouraged to utilize it. House Colborn will pay various artists to showcase their skills and entertain the would-be guests to ensure it remains occupied. To the right of the stage can be found continuously refilled kegs of the finest wintery meads, approved and sponsored by various Scyfling Clans, as is tradition. FAIRGROUNDS STALLS & GAMES Further in, situated around the Krugsmas Tree are various stalls, games, and other joys to enjoy and participate in. Mystery gifts will be given out, wares will be peddled, and arms will come to a wrestle. If rumors are to be believed there might even be some secrets to be found around the grounds. However, whoever finds them first may be the only one to glean a benefit. Bring your furs and prepare your purses to buy a memento or gift. But there is plenty to enjoy, even for those who don’t wish to spend. Just within arms reach of the Krugsmas Tree, the Hot Cocoa stand sits nestled there to warm any that might enjoy a sweet delight or otherwise have little interest in alcohol. Likewise, gift-giving beneath the tree is encouraged, a tradition dating back to antiquity. The Traditional ‘Knight on The Castle’ competition area is prepared and ready for would-be participants. THE KNIGHT ON THE CASTLE The highlight of the festival is the Annual Scyfling game known as ‘The Knight on The Castle’ (king of the hill). Spectators can join in indirectly by throwing snowballs. The competition is straightforward: participants climb to the peak and must hold their position until time expires. Those who remain at the top when the game ends will receive a reward. Although alliances are prohibited, everyone—men, women, and children—competes for themselves! Should a second round be wanted, such can be arranged. But the rewards for it would be lesser. [THE EVENT IS ON SATURDAY 21st, 4 PM EST] Thank you so much to everyone who helped work on the fairgrounds: Comic_al, Smol_bean0, Krispeechips, and Pomegrad. I appreciate all of you immensely. SKRALI VOR GUD, His Excellency, Davyd Edzar Colborn, Royal Curator, Margrave of Kazan, Count of Malkovya, Viscount of Venzia, Baron of Bethelenen, and Lord of Herzskar, Protector of the Scyflings

"About time." Said the Curator from his office in Haense.

It's good to see some new ideas, and it fills a purpose.

Point 1) We're passing on this one since we've already discussed it. Point 2) I think Sprite reagents, while not the "most important" factor in what I am speaking about, are more so a way to actually genuinely be capable of rewarding a player for engaging in Sprite-made events or quests. Right now, as it stands, there aren't any real reasons to engage in making dealings with a sprite past the goodness of people's hearts or the true RP purist. If you don't intend to have the reagent exist, then I still think a clarification of the properties of Pixie Dust is warranted. You'll still probably have to find some way for a Sprite to actually be able to reward someone for "completing" their promise with them. Right now I think at most you're delving into some "pact-upholding" realm, closer to demons or other such entities. Keep in mind, even with these entities you get tangible profits and gains from engaging in dealmaking. As for the minmaxxing portion, you can always make redlines. Point 3) I'm not advocating for a new ability or a fundamental change in a Sprites functionality for RP purposes. I'm directly just talking about CRP rules. In this case, I suggest you make a redline saying, "During CRP Sprite Flight is equal in movement to that of a mounted combatant." This wouldn't just be fair and balanced but also just feed into the more "escape-bound" nature of Sprites. The other redline suggestion, like cutting CRP movement in half while on the ground, is to leave the door open for those trying to capture a sprite. I don't think any of this is as finicky as suggested and, in fact, would be questions that need to be answered anyway.

THE COMING OF AGE OF LADY TEODORA JULIYA COLBORN Published from the Margraviate of Kazan ISSUED ON THE 7TH OF GRONNA AG DROBA, 559E.S. O’ GUD, VOR HJELP I GYNE ERE, On what is to be a most momentous occasion, my daughter, Lady Teodora Juliya Colborn, shall celebrate her eighteenth nameday. It is with immense pride and great pleasure that I extend this invitation to you to join us for a gala held in the heart of Herzskar, within our noble Margraviate of Kazan. This evening will not only mark her coming of age but also honor her years of service to Haense. From a young age, Lady Teodora has served within the Marian Retinue as a dedicated fighter under the guidance of my dear brother, the honorable Ser Joakim Colborn. She has followed a path marked by remarkable feats of courage, defending our beloved Princess Oliviya during a perilous expedition into the Fae Lands, enduring two harrowing encounters alongside our Carrenguard while aiding the people of the desert, and standing time and again against formidable beasts and darkspawn. Her efforts have not only been in defense of Haense and its good people but also in proving herself both a warrior and a protector. Through her sword and shield, she has earned her place among the honored, drawing admiration for her indomitable spirit and, I must say, her sharp mind and intellect. My daughter’s mind, I daresay, is sharper than the blades she wields, tempered by an ever-burning flame of curiosity that persists through a darkness few would dare to fathom. Her fascination with the macabre—whether through the study of fallen warriors, the history of battles, or the practices of her Scyfling ancestors—has deepened her unique character. While others may view her ways with apprehension, we, her family, recognize her growth and celebrate her vision. And so, I warmly invite the people of Haense and our cherished allies to join us on the eve of the year’s end in celebration of my daughter’s name day. Let us partake in dance, feast upon fine food, and share in the warmth of good drink. As on this night, Herzskar will become a scene befitting the spirit of my dear daughter. Haunted by the melodies of a grand orchestra whose music will echo all throughout. And emboldened by the flickering flames of otherworldly glow. THIS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8TH 6PM EST Credits to PeachLova for writing this post SKRALI VOR GUD, His Excellency, Davyd Edzar Colborn, Margrave of Kazan, Count of Malkovya, Viscount of Venzia, Baron of Bethelenen, and Lord of Herzkar, Protector of the Scyflings

Here are a few suggestions based on my experience as a current Sprite player and after reflecting on the lore: Feat Compatibility I propose adding Alchemy to the list of compatible feats. It's an enjoyable addition that doesn't harm anyone and fits well within the Fae roleplay niche. Our reagent can be considered the lore equivalent of "super reagents." However, we should have a redline that prohibits the use of our dust in alchemical creations of our own to prevent poor min-maxing in roleplay. (this exists in the current rendition) Should we not want to approach this feat in the current rewrite then I will probably put up an amendment when or if this rewrite is accepted. However, after speaking to you at length about your viewpoint on the matter, I think a middle ground can be struck in the amendment. Where Sprite Alchemy is more so some sort of innate player-signed concept that can create mischief-born concoctions. Things to enhance RP and has just overall fun applications or effects, if not randomized through roll tables. The Pixie/Sprite Dust Situation Let's elaborate on the details regarding Pixie Dust. As I think currently, it is left too vague, and leaving it as player-signed would all but kill its use in alchemy as currently, you can't make ST-signed potions without ST-signed reagents. If you want the dust here to be used like glitter, I would propose separating these concepts into two parts: a "concentrated" version, and the passive player-signed one you seem to describe. To create the concentrated version of Pixie dust a Sprite would have to channel most of their vessel's energy and breathe into bottles, essentially creating a ST-Signed reagent. This would leave said Sprite lethargic for [x] (2 or 3 days?) amount of time, being unable to produce more until a [week later]. Furthermore, I find the current restriction of "you can make this once a week" to be excessive. The effort required to gather reagents equivalent to what I can produce as a Sprite, is about equal to 5-10 minutes of exploring which seems disproportionate to the effort needed here. Being limited to creating 52 pieces of Pixie Dust annually feels unnecessarily restrictive. While it’s essential to have some limitations on weekly reagent creation, it's important to remember that these creations are primarily for roleplay, quest rewards, bartering, etc., rather than for personal use. Some reflections on the current state of Pixie dust. After attempting to create my Pixie Dust with the current lore, I've found the process to be quite slow, likely due to a shortage of Story Team members familiar with the lore. To streamline this, it would be beneficial to establish a template for signs, descriptions, and provide clear redlines regarding how frequently Pixie Dust can be created. Ideally the ST should just have double chests full of Pixie Dust stored up for creation purposes to make this process as smooth as possible. Below, I will provide an example of the Pixie Dust I currently have a ticket submitted for: Item Desc Pixie Dust is a shimmering, golden substance that emits an otherworldly glow and refracts light into delicate rainbows. Its sweet, floral scent carries a subtle earthy undertone, reminiscent of a forest after rain. Believed to be the crystallized breath of sprites, it dances in the air when scattered, lingering for only a moment. Soft and velvety to the touch, it leaves a faint tingling warmth, suggesting its magical origins. Alchemists highly value this rare and mysterious substance for its unique properties. Signs and Symbols: - Earth&Aether | Life (x5) - Earth&Aether | Growth (x4) - Earth&Aether | Balance (x4) - Earth&Aether | Light (x2) The Combat Situation I think it's fair to say that sprites are an inherently shy and non-combative race. In most scenarios, a sprite is likely to flee rather than fight unless there is no other option or a close friend is in danger. However, this tendency is primarily addressed and considered with our expanded toolset. That said, sprite movement is an area where we still need to make improvements. I believe airborne (flying) sprites should have movement speeds equivalent to those of mounted combatants, while grounded sprites should move at half the speed of normal movement. My reasoning is straightforward: flight is considerably faster than ground movement, and since sprites are much smaller on the ground, they move more slowly than the average descendant. This adjustment allows sprites to flee more effectively, while also creating opportunities for their wings to be damaged or them to be captured if that is desired in a given scenario. I would also make it a redline that Sprites cannot use potions for combative purposes. The last thing we need is for a primarily non-combative immortal race to become a super effective bombing instrument.