CheekyNolan

IN THE VILLAGE OF TARNAVON - Duchy of Valwyck - Nestled in amongst the largest forest of the Empire there is a warm and inviting place where one can seek respite from the beasts and dangers therein. In Tarnavon, a village at the heart of the Imperial highlands and the Duchy of Valwyck, lies a snug tavern where any law-abiding citizen is welcome and doubly so if they can keep up with the locals and their drinking prowess. Come and savour in a tavern like no other and without peer with specialty food and drink perfected over generations of Highlander peoples. Enjoy yourself in The Bear Trap Tavern & Inn, drink and eat your fill and utilise our top floor of fully furnished rooms available for rent when you inevitably never want to leave. MENU DRINKS: BARDEN RED - A bottle of red wine but not a grape-based one as one might expect. Due to the climate of Tarnavon and the surrounding duchies, the brewers instead found a more ready supply of ingredients for wine in the forests around the village. Thus this wine is in fact a bramble wine. It has a tangy, fruity flavor similar to some lighter reds given that it is made from the local blackberries that grow at the foot of castle Barden. - 2 mina CARRION BLACK - The principal drink amongst highlanders with its origins dating back nearly six hundred years ago to the Kingdom of Ruska. This dark ale-like drink is popular despite its strong taste and effect or perhaps because of it. Cheap, requiring an acquired taste, and alcoholic in the extreme. It is best drunk quickly and in great quantities. - 2 mina OTTONIAN HONEY MEAD - One of the oldest drinks in existence. This semi-sweet and naturally sparkling beverage can trace its origins back to the ancient north, before even the Atheran Nord Lords’ time. The version bottled herein has a particularly rich, almost smoky taste owing to the Ayrikiv heather honey used in the fermentation process. This product is made by the priests, monks and nuns of the Priory of Saint Otto in Tarnavon, a stone’s throw away from the tavern it was purchased from. - 3 mina PETYR PEAT WHISKY - A single malt whiskey containing a smokey, earthy, and maritime notes caused by the peat fires used to dry the malted barley and stored for a minimum of ten years. Brewed at the behest of the Dukes and Duchesses of Valwyck, it is widespread within their lands and is enjoyed by their family, friends and people far and wide. - 3 mina ALE - It’s ale. Just ale. Bog standard run of the mill cheap ale. - 1 mina - - - FOOD: AYRIKIV PORRIDGE - Dating back centuries comes this hearty breakfast dish made from oats, milk, and a pinch of vanir salt. This meal is nuttier and chewier than other porridges due to the stone ground oats that are crushed between millstones rather than oat flakes. It also has fewer lumps owing to its careful and attentive stirring while it cooks on the stovetop. Filling and robust, it’s a cheap and tasty start to any morning. - 2 mina CULLEN SKINK - A traditional Ayrikiv soup, one on the thicker side. Created initially by local fishermen as a way to use up their plentiful catches of fish it has since become immensely popular. Made from haddock cured with the smoke from peat, it also contains a healthy portion of potatoes and onions. This chowder-like soup is smokier, heartier and more assertive than your southern counterparts. - 2 mina HAGGIS, NEEPS & TATTIES - Loved amongst the Ayrikiv and originating with them, haggis is a savoury pudding containing minced sheep meat and fat with chopped onions, oatmeal, local seasonings and vanir salt. Served alongside neeps, a type of turnip, and tatties (potatoes). Both of these are boiled and mashed separately before being added to the side of the plate. A hearty and rustic dish with a savory, peppery, and earthy taste. - 3 mina MARIZBRUD or MARIAN BREAD - A traditional form of bread, tracing its roots to the earliest days of the bygone Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska. It differs from other variations for its distinct use of local honey and a pinch of vanir salt in the bake but is also served with a side portion of them too for making it more savoury or sweet to the person’s preference. - 1 mina PERPETUAL STEW - A pot into which whatever one can find is placed and cooked continuously. The pot is never or rarely emptied all the way, and ingredients and liquid are replenished as needed. Such foods can continue cooking for months upon months or years even. [The customer rolls and the number determines the quality of that day’s stew] - 1 mina EVENTS & TRADITIONS The Bear Trap boasts a wide variety of traditions from northern taverns that have spanned and remained popular for centuries as well as newer ones that bring a liveliness and constant buzz to the atmosphere at the tavern. Some of our more famous and frequent events are, but not limited to: BARE-KNUCKLE BOXING - Whilst a perfectly legal sport it is certainly not a high brow one and often frowned upon. Here at the Bear Trap we see it for what it is - entertainment! Taking place in the fight pit beneath the tavern, wrestle and punch your night away for the chance to win a monetary prize and the admiration of your peers if you prevail in the much anticipated fight nights. COMING OF AGE DRINKS - Though we in the Empire do not have an official drinking age it is generally accepted as being in the 16-18 years old range. We Highlanders have long held the belief that the best way to celebrate it is with alcohol. When someone comes of age we offer a discount package of all our drinks so that the newly minted adult can test each and every one so they can determine where their tastes lie early. [Roll when you try each drink and the result determines which drink is the favourite, middling or a down right terrible choice to your character] DRINKING COMPETITIONS - A long standing tradition and popular event the world over. Competitors take part in the tavern run contest for who can finish their drink the quickest in subsequent back to back rounds. The slowest participant in each round is eliminated until there are only two left. From then on the final two will each drink from a coveted bottle of DUKE BARUCH’S BRANDY until only one is left standing. The drink itself is a devilishly strong apple-based fruit brandy aged in whisky barrels that gives it a unique Ayrikiv take. This bottle can only be obtained by winning an official Bear Trap drinking competition and comes from the local brewery’s private reserves ordinarily reserved exclusively for the Ducal family in the region. It is stamped with the year of the victory when presented to the victor. PUB QUIZ - With the challenges of physical and drinking prowess also comes the nights where one’s knowledge and intellect reigns supreme. The self explanatory pub quiz is thus the answer! Join us on one of our quiz nights as a team with one or more of your friends or with complete strangers if you can blag your way into forming one with them. All topics will be covered from history to politics to the natural world. If you think yourself a smart one, prove it and join us at the Bear Trap Tavern. THE INN AND ITS ROOMS The Bear Trap is aptly named as once you’re in it you’ll be stuck. Unlike with its namesake it won’t be because you can’t leave it’ll be because you never want to. We at the Bear Trap have just the thing to help with that little problem. Rooms! Come and stay as long as your heart desires by making use of one of our many rooms for rent. Fully furnished and comfortable. We also offer subsidised terms for renting if you are a new worker or citizen of Tarnavon where we offer a discount or even temporarily free lodging until one can find their footing and a source of income in the busy village. Feel free to contact any tavern employee or the tavern’s owners, the Baruch family, to arrange a stay in this picturesque place.

Issued by the DUCHY OF VALWYCK On the 7th day of HOREN’S CALLING of 2074 A.H. TO THE PEOPLE OF THE MOUNTAINS AND THE LAKES, His Grace, Duncan Eirik Baruch, Duke of Valwyck has met an honourable end and his countrymen mourn his loss after his recent funeral. His titles and estates were in good order and his Grace prudent enough to appoint his heir according to the Valwyck laws of tanistry. His third son and namesake, Duncan ‘the Younger’ Baruch, was lawfully and in the presence of multiple witnesses chosen as the late Duke’s sole heir. The members of House Baruch present, including all the children of the late Duncan, swore on the hallowed coronet of their virtuous progenitor Saint Otto the Bald to abide by his decision and give their full loyalty to the duly selected next patriarch. Thus Duncan Garen Baruch has, in due manner, become the twelfth Duke of Valwyck as Duke Duncan II of Valwyck. DUNCAN GAREN BARUCH 12TH DUKE OF VALWYCK With such an occasion there are traditions to be observed. His Grace has deemed it apt enough time since his Laird father’s passing to arrange his official investiture as Duke of Valwyck with the itinerary listed below: I. CEREMONY OF ASCENSION The series of customs begins with the baptism of the Duke with the traditional prayer spoken at such time in the Church of the Ward Father in the village of Tarnavon. Afterwards the gathered will move to the home of House Baruch, Castle Barden, and bear witness to the bestowal of the regalia, each item ancient and history filled to impart the importance and legacy the incumbent is privileged to carry. Once complete the Duke will be anointed and a final, sealing prayer spoken. II. RECEPTION Guests will be invited to join the Duke and his family within the halls of Castle Barden to celebrate alongside them after the completion of the procession. Ayrikiv drinks will be served and a symphony of bagpipes and fiddles about to bless our companions' ears. It is the Duke’s wish to make this more interesting by instituting a new tradition; a walk through Baruch family history. Art, sculptures, and interactive scenes portraying the highs and lows of the grand flowing tapestry that is the history of the long and enduring House of Baruch will be presented. All royalty, nobility and citizens of the Empire are invited to join the Ayrikiv people and partake in the time honoured traditions of the Duchy of Valwyck. [SATURDAY, THE 28TH OF MARCH @3:30PM EST] ENDURE AND PREVAIL, HIS GRACE, Duncan G. Baruch, Duke of Valwyck, Count of Ayr, Viscount of Voron, Baron of Laval, Riveryn, and Gant, Laird of Barden and Tarnavon, Guardian of the Garenwald

Issued by the DUCHY OF VALWYCK On the 6th day of GODFREY’S TRIUMPH of 2073 A.H. TO THE PEOPLE OF THE MOUNTAINS AND THE LAKES, His Grace, Duncan Eirik Baruch, Duke of Valwyck has met his untimely and tragically early end at the tender age of eighty in the year 2073 A.H. He died on the field of battle upholding, as he did throughout the majority of his life, the integrity and honour of the Empire and Emperor he served faithfully even with his dying breath. A man born to a Haeseni Count of some minor note. Wise beyond his years and with a mind for advancement, both for his family and his people, the leal and fortuitous Ayrikiv. Fortuitous, for they had the finest man in generations of the House Baruch as their guide. He made use of his birthright and not only preserved it, but enhanced it and rose to the position of Duke when sagely swearing his loyalty to the Emperor Tiberias. A fortune maker. A stalwart warrior. A champion jouster. A veteran of dozens of battles. A father who loved his children and grandchildren without reservation. The famed Duke leaves behind three sons and four grandchildren to carry on his legacy and oversee his final well deserved hallowed rites. The bells will toll within the Church of the Ward Father in the village of Tarnavon where the Ayrikiv, the people of Edelmark, and those visiting from afar are invited to offer their condolences and farewells. Anyone wishing to pray for his swift ascension to the Seven Skies are welcome to travel to the Church and give their final farewells for the dearly departed Duke. The funeral service, kindly managed by the Priory of Saint Otto, will be held during the month of the Sun’s Smile, 2073 A.H. DUNCAN EIRIK BARUCH DUKE OF VALWYCK 1992-2072 A.H. [SUNDAY, THE 22ND OF MARCH @2PM EST] ENDURE AND PREVAIL, HIS GRACE, Duncan G. Baruch, Duke of Valwyck, Count of Ayr, Viscount of Voron, Baron of Laval, Riveryn, and Gant, Laird of Barden and Tarnavon, Guardian of the Garenwald HER GRACE, Constantina of Dover, Duchess-Consort of Valwyck, Countess-Consort of Ayr, Viscountess-Consort of Voron, Baroness-Consort of Laval, Riveryn, and Gant, Laidy of Barden and Tarnavon

"The redheads are back in the lead!" Duncan, the newly minted Duke, exclaimed smugly. A genuine smile tugging at the corner of his mouth for the first time in some months, even if it was to get a rise out of his wife.

"The Emperor has the right o' it. Many think us former Haeseni vassals ignorant o' it but unity is the goal. Owynist, Jorenic, or otherwise. As Joren followed Owyn by choice because o' his worthiness for it, I'll follow Hadrian." Duncan, the younger one, explained to the good folk in the Bear Trap tavern having now stopped laughing at the absurd situation and having finished his porridge.

Duncan Baruch, the younger one, spluttered on his porridge when an abrupt laugh erupted from him.

"Thank God he isnae blonde." Duncan the Younger thanked the stars and their maker above with hands clasped together in thankful prayer.

'Who want to work for the community', 'who push the server in a better direction', 'Ideas to drive things forward', 'Get rid of the people who just keep the lights on' (the last one I assume means the people just doing the basic requirements of the role and nothing else). If these are the goals then why on God's green earth did you remove the likes of spoopy and Xarkly

APPOINTMENT OF THE LORD PALATINE KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by THE CROWN On this 10th of Joma ag Umund of 567 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, We, the Crown, wish to express our most profound gratitude to Prinzenas Milena of Galahar who served us faithfully as our Lady Palatine for eighteen years and also performed the duties of the Emissar before being bestowed the Gold Bulava for sixteen years prior. Her Highness also must be thanked for their help as a regent on the regency council during the minority of King Karl IV. Having offered us her resignation citing that it is time to retire to allow the next generation to serve their Kingdom, we have followed her advice and found an energetic replacement to act in tandem with His Majesty as a guiding hand for the Kingdom. As is the prerogative of the Crown, we do hereby appoint Firr Tomasz van ve Karoswald @garentoft to the position of Lord Palatine on account of his selfless and unbiased advice thus far as well as having displayed competency and a way with the people of the Kingdom that would be a boon to the Crown. King Karl IV entrusts Firr Tomasz with the Gold Bulava as Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska to be wielded in his name. Let this appointment be recorded in the annals of our history, and let all subjects acknowledge and respect the authority of the appointee and their office. We thank Prinzenas Milena once more for their years of leal service and pray they have a peaceful retirement. ╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ IV JOVEO MAAN, HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Karl IV, by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Marian Retinue, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Slesvik, Solvesborg, and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia, Margrave of Rothswald, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Markev, Siegrad, Torun, Toruv, and Valdev, Baron of Buck, Esenstadt, Kralta, Krepost, and Rytsburg, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector and Lord of the Highlanders, etcetera.

APPOINTMENT OF THE LORD SPEAKER KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by THE CROWN On this 10th of Joma ag Umund of 567 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, We, the Crown, wish to express our gratitude for the time Lord Sigmar var Ruthern spent in office as the Lord Speaker after having accepted his resignation a couple years ago now. We entrust the new Lord Speaker to oversee, encourage and moderate the Royal Duma to continue providing advice and viewpoints as well as changes to the Haurul Caezk to the Crown. As is the prerogative of the Crown alone, we do hereby appoint Lord Sigmund Ludovar @Legoboy7984, Duke of Kvasz, to the position of Lord Speaker on account of his long tenure as the Lord Handler of His Majesty’s Royal Duma as well as authoring multiple advisory bills personally. King Karl IV entrusts Lord Sigmund with the Black Bulava as Lord Speaker of Hanseti-Ruska to be wielded in his name. Let this appointment be recorded in the annals of our history, and let all subjects acknowledge and respect the authority of the appointee and their office. We wish his predecessor, Lord Sigmar, a happy and quiet retirement. ╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ IV JOVEO MAAN, HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Karl IV, by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Marian Retinue, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Slesvik, Solvesborg, and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia, Margrave of Rothswald, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Markev, Siegrad, Torun, Toruv, and Valdev, Baron of Buck, Esenstadt, Kralta, Krepost, and Rytsburg, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector and Lord of the Highlanders, etcetera.

"Wham!" The King of Haense declared as the snails, Georg Mikhail and Andrik Ridgeley, crossed the finish line. "As promised, we are going where the drinks are free!"

A GLINTING SWORD “It is the Knight who heralds the will of the Crown. It is the Knight who assumes the mantle of paragon seeking neither glory nor gain. It is the Knight who aspires to embody the perfection of Godan’s creation.” KING SIGISMUND III ‘THE GOLDEN’, 398 E.S. THE KING WAS LEADING THE CHARGE OF COUNCILORS, NOBLES, COMMONERS; MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN. Everyone high and low, including even visitors from abroad. They marched with him at the head to the banks of the River Lahy, just beyond the city limits where the cold winds of the Ailmere blew downstream and met the warmer breeze of the south. Here, with the walls of the Royal City across the water still in view and with the woods to their back, was where Karl had decided a fitting spot for the ceremony would be. Here, where the river surged and the rapids ended, lived a swirling channel that never ceased churning up blocks of melting ice. He stepped onto the dock with a creak. Despite its foreboding and violent appearance, Karl thought of the place fondly. Afterall it was the first place outside of the city walls he’d ever been. Led astray by a boy he had been friends with for all of a day, but one now whose name he couldn’t bring to mind. This was where the two of them had tossed stones and took great delight in watching them flow round and round until they were sucked down to the depths of the Lahy. The King’s gaze was settled on that twisting torrent now after having sent a pebble from the dock’s end into it. He regarded it with decidedly less enjoyment this time as it was whisked away down the basin. Karl’s attention was snatched away when Andrei Kortrevich, both his friend and the prospective Paramount similar in age to himself, flung the tent flap wide and stepped through into the bracing night air. He’d stripped off his armour and came humbly in his lightest clothing. Ah yes, the next stone to be tossed thought Karl, his concern already started to turn his stomach when Andrei joined him on the end of the jetty. He instructed the knight to take a knee. “I have deemed you worthy of undertaking our hallowed rite and have faith that you will succeed where others in the past have not. Should you wish to serve as the Knight Paramount of Hanseti-Ruska you must complete this task I have laid before you without complaint and without aid. You alone must prove your worth to all us present and to the Skies above.” The murmurs had begun already. “He will manage it, he’s been through much worse," one said. Another incredulously added “But he’ll bloody well drown!?” The comments continued but Karl proceeded nonetheless. “The Drowning of the Blades will test you both mentally and physically. It is a task you may not return from. Do you understand?” “Ea understand wholeheartedly, Vyr Majesty. Yam willing to take that risk.” Andrei’s answer was swift and confident. Too confident chided Karl in his mind. He reached down to his sword and slid it free from the ornate scabbard. It was a beautiful thing, even to Karl who ordinarily had little appreciation for weaponry. The blade itself almost shone when the light caught. The grip was an octagon made of black and white pearlescent panels set below the gilded crossguard shaped to resemble the Teutonic cross. A masterwork of forging and bladesmithing. Karl hurled it into the middle of the whirlpool where it disappeared near instantly beneath the ice and rapids. “Your King has lost the Sword of Blessed Gaius Marius, the weapon upon which every Marian Oath is sworn.” Karl addressed Andrei with the most neutral of expressions as if he had not just launched one of the most famed weapons in the world to the depths of a freezing river. “No new knights may be inducted into the Retinue until it is retrieved. You must return it to my hand, Ser Andrei Kortrevich, or die trying.” The Kortrevich, who had been briefed before on the details of this ceremony, knew to waste no time. He lurched to his feet and took a running start off the pier. He dove straight into the centre of the vortex. Andrei disappeared from view just as the sword and stones before him had; only it was never expected they would appear back on their own. Andrei would have to. Even if only to prove some of those naysayers on the bank wrong about him being too young or unworthy of the honour. “You will pledge your life and honour to the line of Barbov and all the Edlervik. You shall always heed the word of the King of Crows and his counsel, even if it shall surely mean your end.” Karl began on the altered oath every knight swears. Countess Emma, Andrei’s mother, was already looking green about the gills with worry. He will be well and emerge soon, I'm sure Andrei’s friend and King was confident. “You shall never cower from the enemies of your King, lest you fall on your sword. You shall cover yourself in glory, that you might stand among the heroes of our people, and be worthy of their admiration.” Newcomers arrived and the rumblings continued. “What’re we staring at. . .?” one such person asked with a confused frown. “We are waiting to see if our prospective Knight Paramount drowns or not.” came his cousin’s voice. Some who were sure of the knight’s success at the start were now less so and giving in to their worries, faces etched with it. He will be well and emerge soon I’m sure Karl’s resolve was weakening some. He knitted his brows and continued. “You shall take charge of every page, squire and knight in this hallowed realm and are bid to do so as the Knight Paramount. Rise now, the Knight Paramount of the Marian Retinue, from this day until your oath's end.” “Be quiet!” hissed Andrei’s mother to some of the more callous whispers pertaining to the knight’s fate. “Have faith. He will return shortly.” responded Prince Aleksandr. Unlike his royal cousin, Karl’s faith was wavering but hopelessness tempts fate to stay its course. He will be well and emerge soon I’m sure Karl reminded himself. His eyes bore at the spot where Andrei had disappeared many moments ago. Too long ago. “There he is!” cried a noble lord who pointed at the water's surface near the dock. From the pitch black depths a hand breached through and gripped tight in a pale quaking hand was the Sword of Gaius Marius. The candle light from the embankment caught the metal of the blade and the drops of water that slipped down its length. It glinted in the light like something otherworldly. Something that breathed hope back into the crowd and settled their troubles. Thank the Skies and all their Blessed Karl exhaled a subtle sigh of relief. Before long, the rest of Andrei’s shape appeared and made for the pier. He hooked the sword’s guard on a plank and heaved himself up onto the jetty with it as purchase. The knight, fortunate to be alive, struggled to his feet. He was soaked to the bone and shivered from the chill, teeth chattering. Despite his suffering, Andrei held out the sword shakily towards his King and once Karl had taken it he knelt before him. “Ser Andrei Kortrevich, having proven yourself this day worthy of holding the title of many a famed knight and displaying valour beyond measure. . .” Karl lowered the sword's blade first onto Andrei’s right shoulder “are hereby, by the prerogative of the Crown of Hanseti-Ruska and by the demands of fate,” Karl tapped Andrei upon the left shoulder with the flat of the sword “entrusted to wield the Steel Bulava in my name as Knight Paramount of Hanseti-Ruska!” The Sword of Gaius Marius was once more returned to its usual spot, rammed back with a snap of the hilt on the scabbard. Karl bid Andrei to rise with a graceful motion of his hand up and he did just that much to the cheers of the crowd. Chief among them Andrei’s mother who wept tears of joy and likely relief at finding her son topside once more with the added caveat of still breathing. Some of the members of the Marian Retinue took to a display of support by taking their swords still in their scabbard and drumming them on the sides of the path. One, misunderstanding or caught up in the revelry of it all, tossed his sword into the river and got an earful for it from another attendee. Frankly, Karl was relieved and, despite his station and role in the ceremony, let the guise of formality and etiquette slip for the moment to join in on the congratulations. He clapped his friend on the back and let a delighted, quiet laugh blow out his nose before he sent him along to embrace his mother who itched at the seams to hug her son and make him real once more. As she swaddled him in a cloak and preened over him like a mother bird with her chick they left the dock and made for the path back to the city. Karl waited a moment longer and cast a look over the swirling water that held many of his fondest memories. Now it holds one fond memory more. “What say we go back to the city and let the Knight Paramount get some heat back in his bones, huh?” recommended Karl with a clap of his hands after he tore his gaze from the river. He joined his people shoulder to shoulder on the march back. APPOINTMENT OF THE KNIGHT PARAMOUNT KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by THE CROWN On this 10th of Vzmey ag Hyff of 565 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, We, the Crown, wish to express our esteemed thanks to Ser Belisar who served us faithfully as our Knight Paramount and as a regent on the regency council. Having returned from a far flung voyage, he has informed us of his intention to retire citing old age as the reasoning. We have accepted and freed him of his oaths. As a show of our admiration for the work and the sword skill of the knight, we allow for him to retain the title Ser and to still represent the Crown in military matters against our enemies as a capable commander of soldiers. As is the prerogative of the Crown, we did order Ser Andrei to undergo the ceremony known as the Drowning of the Blades, a time honoured tradition amongst the Haeseni to allow fate’s hand to display if they also believe the knight worthy of ascension. We are glad to have witnessed firsthand the knight rise from the waves with sword in hand. Thus, we do hereby appoint Ser Andrei Kortrevich @Gandhi to the position of Knight Paramount on account of his displayed bravery, fortune and honour. King Karl IV entrusts Ser Andrei with the Steel Bulava as Knight Paramount of Hanseti-Ruska to be wielded in his name. Let this appointment be recorded in the annals of our history, and let all subjects acknowledge and respect the authority of the appointee and their office. Ser Andrei has held the position since 564 E.S. despite this writ being published officially in 565 E.S. We thank Ser Belisar var Ruthern for their years of leal service and pray they have a peaceful retirement. ╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ IV JOVEO MAAN, HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Karl IV, by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Marian Retinue, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Slesvik, Solvesborg, and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia, Margrave of Rothswald, Count of Alban, Alimar, Baranya, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Markev, Siegrad, Torun, Toruv, and Valdev, Baron of Buck, Esenstadt, Kralta, Krepost, and Rytsburg, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector and Lord of the Highlanders, etcetera.

King Karl IV had his knight, Ser Joakim, present his back to him so he could sign the treaty on it. He smiled ear to ear as he fanned the ink dry and then forked it back over to Lord Jarad.

THE SEVENTH HAESENI SOCIAL SEASON Issued by THE ROYAL COURTS On this the 10th of Vzmey ag Hyff of 564 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, ANOTHER GENERATION HAS GROWN AND BEGUN TO COME INTO THEIR OWN. It is at this time in the life of many Haeseni that a Lifstala is best held and put to use to create bonds and relations between the Kingdom’s people and indeed even with visitors from abroad that are welcome to participate. In the past we have been influenced heavily by the customs of our Heartlander cousins but this time there will be an importance on the traditions of our ancestors and a more importance placed on those who will lead the world into its future getting to know one another better as well as the typical chances for courtship. The theme for this Lifstala will be the Haeseni mythologie, the beliefs held by our ancestors and how they relate to us now in a series of events that will be sure to form lasting memories. A DAY OF WINTER FULL MOON RISING ON THE WATERS OF THE LAKE, SHINING AND FAIR. To begin this Lifstala, and in keeping with its theme, the setting of the inaugural festivities will take place around Lake Georg at the mouth of the River Lahy, north of the royal city. We know that the moon is a blessing from Godan but our ancestors knew it as Nikul even if they were not aware that it was a gift from the Creator. All the same, they paid it reverence and given our motif we shall all have an inkling of what our ancestors were like when we make merry on the banks of Lake Georg under the moon. I. ICE SKATING Before nightfall every participant shall don their skates and take to the frozen Lahy. Whether alone or skating with someone, all are welcome to partake in the quaint activity and poking fun at people who slip is encouraged. II. GAME OF NIKULTAG A game involving an iced over layer of snow over a hole that contestants bash out with shovels to try and have their opponents fall into said hole. The last one standing atop the original layer is the winner. It is a game with roots spanning further back than even the Kingdom of Ruska to when records begin. [It’s spleef] III. BOAT RACING Duos will take to the row boats at the docks and set sail for a full lap around Lake Georg. One rows while the other's task is to help however they can. Whether that be by toppling competitors’ boats should they get too close or by shouting encouragement to their teammate, the only rule is to follow the race route and the rest is up to you. IV. EVERWINTER CRAFTS Just as night begins to fall that is when we will need to collect firewood and no firewood is better up that far north than that of the everwinter tree. The wood burns blue and has played a part in the lives of hinterlanders for centuries. The sap and seeds will also be put to special use as well if anyone is fortunate enough to collect some. V. ICE FISHING Lit by the blue everwinter braziers, holes will be punched in the ice and the fishing rods doled out to every would-be fisherman. For those wishing for some sport to the fun, there will be a prize for the one who catches the largest fish and as is customary they should bestow their fine catch to one who has caught their eye or who has been a true friend throughout the festivities. VI. NIGHT SKY FIREWORKS To complete the evening on the Lake and with the night taking hold fully, we gather under the night sky with the moon at its highest point. To keep the interest of those who want a little more excitement, the festivities will officially conclude with a round of spectacular fireworks. The festivities will take place during: The Month of WZUVAR AG BYVCA, 565 E.S. on the MOUTH OF THE RIVER LAHY [WEDNESDAY, 15TH OF JANUARY @3PM EST] A DAY OF ARTS ART COMES IN A GREAT MANY FORMS AND BEAUTY BLOOMS FROM IT. The second Saint’s day of Lifstala is themed around Gevok, or the Divine Scrivener, as our ancestors knew him before being reintroduced to the true faith. Gevok, before becoming the greatest of scribes, was originally of modest stock but rose to great heights thanks to his masterful poems. So too will be like the Scrivener’s story and showcase our talents be it a knack for poetry, singing, musical instruments or crafting something of great beauty. Let us show to this world of ours what we might create. I. POETRY COMPETITION To set the tone for the day’s events, those who have prepared a poem may take centre stage and recite it for the crowd. Everyone will be judged by the audience and the victor decided by them and the Amador twins who will bestow a gift created at their own cost to the winning poet. II. FAVOUR MAKING OR VEREVKEMAR Here the men and women split themselves apart and begin making very important tokens of affection, verevka belts or favours respectively. The men make the traditional belts given to the one they are courting as a sign they wish to wed and the women make favours that will be bestowed later in Lifstala during the day at the tourney grounds. III. BATTLE OF THE BARDS Those who are musically inclined will be involved in the day’s closing event. The Battle of the Bards will have any would-be musician or singer pitted against one another and perhaps even in teams to quickly make music that will likewise to the poetry competition be judged by everyone present. The festivities will take place during: The Month of JULA AG PIOV, 565 E.S. in the NEW VALDEV GARDENS [THURSDAY, 16TH OF JANUARY @5pm EST] A DAY OF REVELRY THE MIDDLE OF LIFSTALA IS DESERVING OF A MERRY BREAK FOR ALL FILLED WITH JOY AND LAUGHTER. We gather on the third Saint’s day of Lifstala to come together for some harmless fun and antics involving a few of the Haeseni’s favourite pastimes such as drinking and snail racing. Our ancestors best attributed their skill in drinking to their pagan God Haruhtrow who in the myths was freed by Saint Joren himself. While a great craftsman, Haruhtrow was famed also for his mastery over a good time and that is what we will seek to embody on this fairest of days. I. LIFSNAILA 500 The inaugural Lifsnaila 500 will kick off the day’s festivities. In this one-off special race, participants shall team up with someone who they have grown close with during the course of the season, in the ultimate test of companionship, cooperation, and speed. Their snails shall be tied together, and they shall race to take the win, in a battle where the winner takes it all! To learn more about the Lifsnaila 500, see the 564 HFSR Lifsnaila 500 Rules and Regulations. II. SHEEP DOG Thereafter, the attendees as Kovgrad shall participate in a game of “Sheep Dog”. One shall be chosen as the Wolf, while everyone else shall be Sheep Dogs. The Sheep Dogs shall stand on a line, while the Wolf calls out “Sheep Dog, Sheep Dog…” followed by a question describing a trait, for example: One’s favourite colour. Those possessing the trait shall run across, avoiding being tagged by the Wolf. If one is tagged by the Wolf, one too becomes one. The last Sheep Dog standing is the winner. Multiple rounds may be played. III. DRINKING GAMES As with any good day where merriment is encouraged, drinking will be a focus. There will be drinking games aplenty starting with the coming of age tradition where the party goers will sample one of every drink popular in Haense. This will be followed shortly by your bog standard drinking competition to see who can drink the most the quickest and will end finally with a game of Kenemarv. Kenemarv requires two participants and the aim is to successfully link arms but remain drinking without pause until the entire mug is emptied. IV. A HORSE AND AN ASS For an end to the Day of Revelry, when every bottle within Kovgrad has run dry, men and women alike shall rush for their horses. Drunk and dastardly brave, they shall race from the walls of Kovgrad to the walls of New Valdev, with the first inebriated equestrian to reach the capital awarded a replica of the famed magickal flute of Harunyllaes, as well as a years supply of Carrion Black. The festivities will take place during: The Month of VZMEY AG HYFF, 565 E.S. in the BARONY OF KOVGRAD [FRIDAY, 17TH OF JANUARY @5PM EST] A DAY OF COMBAT IT IS I WHO SLEW THE DRAGON AND I WHO MUST BE KING. These were the words of Saint Joren who our ancestors, before being enlightened to the truth of it, believed to be a demigod by reaching the heavens and its treasures. As he was ambitious and strong in his pursuit of his goal, so too should the young men and women of Haense. Gather together on the fourth Saint’s day of Lifstala and display your prowess or merely show off your newfound goods be it a sword needing broken in or a gleaming set of armour. There will surely be an event for everyone with prizes aplenty. I. MARKET STALLS Before the fighting, jeering and cheering begins it is only right that we all make sure we are well equipped for the day's competitions. Whether that be with some Haeseni courage from a fresh pint of Carrion Black or with a new sword, helmet or painted shield to showcase your wealth and status, there will be plenty of goods on offer before the main events commence. II. ARMORED MELEE As opposed to the normal means of conducting melees in Haense, we will instead seek to cut the shape of a true Bogatyr head to toe in armour and equipped with good steel. Participants will have to ensure they bring their own armour and weapons before they step into the ring for a chance at glory. III. THE COUPLED KERFUFFLE The Ladies of the Realm shall hopefully feel inspired by the previous event. In the ensuing melee, teams of two will take each other on, to show not only prowess, but also cooperation. The women are given free choice amongst the gathered men, but may only pick one as their partner for the kerfuffle, so pick with the heart! IV. GRAND LIFSTALA JOUST The highlight of the Lifstala season is undoubtedly the Grand Joust which is conducted similarly to any other joust but with far more importance placed on the etiquette penned by the Haeseni King Georg himself as well as courtly conduct. It is commonplace for the men partaking to be bestowed or request the favour of a lady to win, or lose, in their name. V. ARCHERY CONTEST To close the day’s events there will be an archery contest where contestants will take aim for targets of increasing difficulty. When one misses they are out until there is only one left. Should an indefinite tie happen a tie-breaker involving marksmanship will be decided on by the King. The festivities will take place during: The Month of GRONNA AG DROBA, 565 E.S. in the NEW VALDEV TOURNEY GROUNDS [SATURDAY, 18TH OF JANUARY @3:30PM EST] [RP AND STALLS @3:30PM, MELEE BEGINS @4PM EST] A DAY OF COURTSHIP THE WARMTH OF OUR HOMES IS SECOND TO COMFORT WE BRING ONE ANOTHER. Likewise with Saint Joren, our wayward forebears misunderstood the nature of the divine and believed Saint Tara, the wife of Joren, to be a demigoddess and one associated with love. While that belief is not ours now, Tara is the patron of wives and flowers which is fitting for the final Saint’s day of Lifstala. During this auspicious day it is encouraged to formalise courtships, betrothals and anything else while the palace is filled with flowers and decorations to mark the occasion and its events. I. HEART OF THE CARDS The first dance of the night shall be decided by fate itself. The attendees shall partake in a quiz designed with the advice of the line of Galahar. After the quiz, every participant shall be given a card depicting a figure from Haeseni mythologie. Their first dance of the night shall then be the person given the matching card. II. THE LIFSTALA DANCE Following the introductory matching and dances, the festivities will continue with the attendees able to now choose their preferred partner and continue dancing to their heart’s content. This is the time to reflect on the relationships formed during the entire Lifstala and to make fond memories with one another that you’ve grown close with. Everyone is expected to invite at least one person to dance, even if it is simply for a bit of practice. III. ROYAL BLESSINGS To formally conclude the evening of dancing and mingling, the King will sit the throne and hear petitioners should it relate to the Lifstala season. It is customary at this time that those wishing to court or those who intend to wed come before the King and seek his blessing. Matches made and given the royal favour are considered especially lucky and it is assured that the marriage that comes from it will be a fortuitous one. The festivities will take place during: The Month of JOMA AG UMUND, 565 E.S. in the KASTELL LESANOV THRONE ROOM [SUNDAY, 19TH OF JANUARY @4PM EST] ╠═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣