CheekyNolan

1) Absolutely not, I think it's horrible. My forum title is Buckfast Rhapsody mostly because at one point people in the orcs were putting it on the music bot on loop whenever I joined vc. I did have a friend though that claimed it tasted better with milk. I didn't put that to the test though. 2) It's going to sound bad coming from a Scotsman but I'm not overly a whiskey drinker but when I do I tend to just go with what I know which is Glayva. It's not high brow in the slightest. Honestly I'm a terrible drinker, I drink the cheap stuff and too much of it which is what leads to the Frank Sinatra karaoke in vcs at 4am.

2000 POSTS AND NEARLY A DECADE TO GET THERE My forum name is Nolan_ (mostly because someone already has just plain Nolan) but most people would probably know me better as CheekyNolan which is a name I took almost immediately after joining the server as part of a joke with friends I made on here. If it wasn’t clear already I’m what some people around today would call an old head or, if they’re being nice, a veteran player. I made my forum account nearly exactly ten years ago and as of this post have officially hit 2000 posts. Before I get flack for that though I do want to point out a lot, and I mean A LOT, of that post count comes from my time on Application Team and Event Team (three times) and being a Forum Moderator quite a few years ago now. Although I’ve been a part of the LotC community for nearly a decade I haven’t been consistently playing that whole time. I don’t think I’d still be sane if I had. I’ve taken year long breaks at a time in between big stints of playing but have been playing pretty consistently since COVID because I became extremely bored in lockdown. I took a big break recently though after my High Pontiff character in October last year and came back in about early March from that. Needless to say though I still have my fair share of accrued hours in total from my entire LotC lifespan. THE ORIGINS I remember starting out as a fresh face noob still. A character called Alfred Valornis who was part of a family that was being put together by my real life friend, the same one who convinced me to join the server in the first place. From there that character took a life of its own, even when my friend stopped playing regularly. I joined a community of viking-esque roleplayers called Nerezza in the North of Athera ran by joke13 (who some of you might know better as Khan), patu or SaintPaint, Stormclank, Imibee, Delrof, Agurka also known better now as Gucko, and a few others. There my character changed his name to Audbjorn Faolain and embraced this norse inspired pagan religion until we lost a war to the Kingdom of Oren and were made part of the new power in the North, the original Haense. I still remember distinctly InfamousGerman killing me in the warclaim and after the fight, presumably because he took pity on me as a new player, he gave me all my gear back without ever mentioning it. That’s always stuck with me as something only someone who is genuinely around for a love of the game and its players in every pocket of the server would do. I’ve tried to emulate that kind of thing when I can because I just remember how much that made my day when I was just starting out. I stayed in fledgling Haense for a bit, helping out with Knox’s group, the Poor Fellows, and meeting @JuliusAakerlund properly for the first time who is amazingly an even older player than me who is still active. I went on with that character shortly after to join the Order of Saint Amyas with a handful of old Nerezza players and became a ‘holy’ knight after being forcibly converted. This is where I became a quote on quote Savoyard and is still to this day what a lot of fellow old heads remember me for. I became an officer in the order and ended up fighting in the infamous Dukes’ War against some of my now closest friends on the server. Despite how bad that war got with the toxicity and jabs at each other, the server was a different place then and I can still say I look back on it with a decent amount of fondness. Mostly because of the people I was playing with such as LemonDropz, dandan, Altiak, GoodGuyNorman, stigwig, kaldwin, ponder, and especially Dantory who I still think about often and miss even more. Savoy is kind of where I started making a name for myself as big headed as that might sound. I got to meet a lot of people during this time period and became pretty ingratiated with the human playerbase across the board. I also got to see history server in the making - I was the sole survivor for the Savoy side in the raid that officially kicked off the Dukes’ War and got to relay the information back in roleplay, I was there in the throne room when DelaneyG’s Marked Man character Letho brought the head of Duke Hugh Sarkozic, the leader of Adria, to Altiak’s Guy de Bar character, and I was there when Brelus was burnt to the ground which is still mentioned in roleplay fairly frequently to this day. All on my first character ever. I pked him not long after all this because I wanted to start playing other things and Audbjorn had pretty much had his full character arc completed from how I saw it. He got his liege lord on the throne of Oren. He is still, without a shadow of doubt, one of if not my favourite character I’ve played and that is a high bar. I still have the original character card I made for him way, way, way back when I first joined Saint Amyas so enjoy looking at the formatting and writing skills of a freshly fifteen year old me here. ALL THE REST Aside from Savoy and Haense, which I imagine is what most people know for these days considering I’ve been playing there consistently for the last three years and am playing the heir to the place, I have played in a whole host of different communities over my time and a even a ton of different races from time to time. I’ll include a spoiler below of every character I can remember playing and a short description of who they were role or profession wise. I started as a Nord Lord as a pagan human who became a Canonist holy knight and fought in one of the bloodiest human civil wars with Audbjorn as I’ve said. I played my first noble, a Kaedreni whose family was cursed and fell on hard times after being caught burning down a church. I don’t even remember why we did it. I played an orc, the son of the orcish Rex at the time and must say that they are probably my second favourite race on the server with the potential they have especially with shamanism and how interesting it can be. I played my very first peer, a Savoyard who was the legitimised bastard son of a Baron and an Orenian princess. I played my first elf and was in the Dominion for a while with Gucko and Milochio while I was training to be a Paladin of Xan. Ironically, the three of us all lived in one house and each had a different magic. I was a paladin, Guck was a necromancer (which I didn’t know in roleplay), Milochio was a voidal mage and Nalatac was just there as a gnome for some reason. I played my first official knight who moved North once Savoy began its decline in the Fifth Empire. He lived in Saltstone, a Pyke from Game of Thrones inspired build, which to this day is still one of my favourites. He died fighting alongside Haense against Courland in the Riga War. I played a Marked Man trainee which was a group intended to act like Witchers. Never quite made it to a full blown one what with the PK clause stuff that was important to the group and dying on my final trial. I knew what I signed up for though. I played a commoner who managed to seduce an enemy king’s daughter and then had to flee to the fringes of society in the Westerlands in a kind of avoiding punishment by joining the Night’s Watch kind of way. This was an incredible experience I must say with the storytelling and theme that was going on there. One of my best characters hands down and he was not intended to be anything special, in fact I started playing him just to help a friend. I played another knight, this time a Horen-Rothesay and joined the Westerlands’ Kingsguard because I was the nephew of the Queen. When the Westerland was destroyed by darkspawn, he moved to Lotharingia where he had some family connections and ended up becoming Grand Knight. I played another orc and was once again the son of the Rex. He went on to become Yazgurtan, the kind of head steward for the orcs. He was executed after humans took the orcish capital. I played another knight which I know is becoming a trend. I was invited to come play with levirad who was starting up a houseguard for the new Duke of Adria at the time chumpchump. The knight quickly went on to become the second in command and sit on the Duke’s Duma which was a highlight with how fun chumpchump always made it like when we kept voting about who to throw out of a window into a pile of manure. I played my very first orc’s son who became the Warchief of Clan Braduk. During an event he killed an Inferi or some other kind of demonic monster, I can’t quite remember, and picked up a cursed sword that slowly poisoned his mind and turned him mad. It was a very, very fun character to play because of that. I played once again another orc who was mad but in a different way. He was a Lak who worshipped the spirits to the point of obsession and wore a voodoo looking mask. He was essentially a troll for WoW mixed with a deranged Yoda which was fun for making up some random roleplay with newer orc players. I played my first Haenser since the very beginning of my time on the server with @6xdestroyer, @Chronics, @ggteixeira, and others in the Hounds of Blessed John. He was a peasant who taught himself to read and write to better convert pagans to Canonism and after the Hounds died off he became an author. He was also the genius who came up with my proudest invention I’ve ever made on the server; the Shaking of Faith or as we called it in vc the shake and bake. I played an orc again to help out @Boomzerang who was aiming to be the next Rex so played his brother. Most of my roleplay on him consisted of starting arguments with his brother and consistently losing but all the Lur trials were very fun to do. I played my first ever dwarf which is where I met and became friends with @Beamon4 and @TheFirstShroom and became an Irongut. I rose through the Legion quickly and became an officer for teaching the men how to do the cha cha slide in game. He gave me my appreciation for the dwarves. I played another dwarf, this time a Starbreaker and @Nooblius' famous dwarf (Norli) character’s brother. He was a bit of an unserious jokester who only really was interested in cracking terrible jokes that didn’t land and creating jewellery. He gave himself the self professed title of Dwedmar Merchant Extraordinaire but don’t think he ever actually managed to sell anything. I played a human again when Beamon asked me to help him and @Publius with House de Falstaff which was originally Savoyard in origin. I went and played in the Empire for a bit before being wrongfully executed by @ErikAzog (looking at you buddy) like a dog which is what brought me to where I have been for a while now and am still a part of; Haense. From then on I started to play a Haense character, given to me by @LouisGY and @GMRO who I had met briefly in the dwarves. I joined House Ruthern and my next character after that initial one where I was finding my feet in the vast history and culture of Haense that was admittedly a little overwhelming was the next Duke of Vidaus. I got my first Aulic position which is on the council of the top people in the kingdom as Speaker so it was my job to run the Duma, the legislative body. It was fun when people made it fun and I remember @Malta starting a riot that got out of control. Everyone went along with that roleplay and had a good time with no OOC about it which is always refreshing. I also rewrote the entirety of Ruthern history when I played him, which was a huge post and probably my best piece of writing out of my whole time on the server. After Ruthern I kind of fell into playing @Dyl’s character’s kid who was a second generation immigrant and a Rhenyari (a Farfolk culture). I didn’t expect anything to come of him, all I knew was that I wanted to get involved with church roleplay so became an acolyte on him. Well he went on to be probably my most successful character ever. He became a Bishop and through roleplay with gusano’s heir to the Kingdom character he ended up being entrusted to become Lord Palatine of Haense, the Chancellor essentially and second in charge. He then was also promoted within the Church to Archbishop of the Haense diocese. When the High Pontiff died he ran for Pontiff and got it becoming Sixtus the Fifth. I can’t say I did well as Pontiff because I ended up going inactive due to burning myself out and map transition didn’t help where it was hard to find a remedy for things going on in humanity at the time but the roleplay was always fun especially when I made an effort to spend a full week in every nation I could before moving onto the next one. I do not envy anyone who becomes Pontiff, it's hard. Then I played a prince which I didn’t make full use of because I was Palatine and then Pontiff at the same time but I had fun being a charming if not obnoxious prince when I had the time to do it. That takes us pretty much to the present where I have an old man character doing army stuff to help newer players in the Haense army and my Kortrevich that had admittedly been kind of sidelined since I became heir to the kingdom which has so far been stressful but an opportunity I’ve wanted for a long time now. ASK AWAY That’s pretty much the full story, condensed as it is. What with being the heir to a Kingdom and the eventual head of a community paired with my near ten year anniversary of joining and hitting 2000 posts it seemed like an opportune time to make an AMA. Feel free to ask me anything even if it’s not necessarily about anything character or LotC related.

Receiving word from Haense whilst on his visit to Reinmar for the royal nuptials, the Grand Prince smiled ear to ear at the news "I am glad the passing of the title has happened without complication. I am hopeful for the Ayrikiv once more and know they'll do great again when it's my time to rule."

ON ROBERTS AND THE CRUSADE A LETTER TO HIS HOLINESS ON THE ROBERTINE CRUSADE AND VENERATION Saint Robert ‘the Fat’ of Metz 22nd of Sigismund’s End, 1996 A.H. | 22nd of Msitza and Dargund, 549 E.S. “See in us not fear or doubt in Thy blessed mystery, but in the promise of Paradise, shining brightly beyond, in the Skies Thy abode, where the good shall come to rest.” HIGH PONTIFF RO’EH TZON, NONUS AUREA BULLA APOSTOLICUS To His Holiness, the High Pontiff, @Fleeperpriest and His Curia, This open letter is sent with all reverence deserved and may the blessings of divine grace continue to be bestowed by Godan on His Holy Church to maintain the holy path set by your predecessors. I do not presume to know all when it comes to our faith and the decisions made. I am human and to be human is to err so perhaps I am merely looking in the wrong place or misunderstanding something simple but an issue with both the Robertine Crusade and with what was mentioned in passing at the meeting His Holiness held last Saint’s day within Lemon Hill has me confused. I would be most grateful if His Holiness or a member of His Curia might respond to the questions I will outline below. Firstly, on the matter of a mention of one venerable Robert Goodwill. Try as I have, I can find no Bull published by the Mother Church nor a mention of a Robert Goodwill within the volumes of the Legenda Sanctorum. As far as I have been made aware the man is also a footnote in history, being predominantly remembered as nothing more than a clown playing at being a priest who concerned himself absolutely with wanton violence and insult hurling. I do hope this mention was a mistake. A man of such reputation can surely not be considered venerable, especially when compared to the number of pious men and women who would stand beside him if he were. A clarification on this would be appreciated. Secondly, I request another clarification if I may be so bold as to ask for such, this time on the Robertine Crusade. I had assumed initially that the Crusade announced by His Holiness was named in honour of the only Saint Robert I am aware of and can find in any liturgical work, Saint Robert of Metz. Such would make sense to my mind for Saint Robert’s patronage of inquisitions and his role in life as head of a holy order during the successful crusade on the Kingdom of Santegia. However, there is no mention in either announcement made by His Holiness on the Robertine Crusade as to the reason for the name. It would ease my mind to know to which Saint the crusade’s victories might be attributed to and to whom prayer is owed before battle. Some light shed on this issue would be most helpful I feel. “Enlighten our hearts with the feast of your grace, Empower us to seek truth with unwavering zeal, and let the beauty of poetry guide our ways, as we strive for a world in your divine ideal.” PRAYER OF SAINT ROBERT, THE WALDENIC PRAYER BOOK Yours in joint faith, Lord Rickard Kortrevich

IV JOVEO MAAN “IN THE NAME OF GOD” Issued by the THE OFFICE OF THE CURATOR On this 8th day of Vzmey ag Hyff of 549 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, THE FIFTH HUNDRED AND FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF EXALTED SIGISMUND’S ASCENDANCY TO THE SIXTH SKY ARRIVES ONCE MORE. As in times of yore it is our sacred duty and privilege to mark the occasion with a day of prayer, Canonist learning, mirth and a feast as is the tradition. On the day we remind ourselves who Siegmund Carrion[1] was and the impact his life and holy legacy have had on our very way of life; from our culture to our prestigious bloodlines to our shared future. God ordained that the Soothsayer should see the end times and spread the vision to all of descendant kind. We once more commit his Scroll to memory so we might heed his warning and ready ourselves for the inevitable. As such, all friends of Hanseti-Ruska are welcome to attend in the spirit of this holy day. [1] Sigismund: The Final Exalted. Patriarch Josef of Jorenus, 500 E.S. I. THE CANDLES OF PRAYER To start the day, a sermon on the life and teachings of the Exalted Sigismund will be held within the Basilica of St. Joren and the Broken Chains by our own Patriarch Villorik of Jorenus. Once the traditional rites have been observed, each of the attendees will be permitted to place a prayer candle on or beside the symbolic tomb of the Exalted within the Basilica in colours of black, red and gold. Each one represents the remembrance of our forefather as well as a request for strength and fortitude even if the vision of portent and the vision of strife comes to fruition in our lifetimes. II. THE CROWS AND SOOTHSAYER Spearheaded by the Warden of Crows and the Oracle of Maenvestiyaeo, the Aleksandrplatz Square just outside the Basilica will be repurposed for the afternoon with points of interaction intended to highlight the prophetic nature of Exalted Sigismund. A portion shall be set aside for the cages and crow display of the Deputy Grand Lady. Here, based on the superstitions and omens that can be interpreted by the type, number and movement of crows[1][2], will messages intended as nothing more than a harmless and an entertaining exercise be construed and explained to the men, women and children in attendance who wish to take part. The other part of Sigismund’s day shall comprise of the appearance of the illusive Oracle Josef who has made clear his wish to utilise the Sight of Sigismund that we Haeseni ordinarily only observe when a knight has completed their final trial with the Oracle’s aid. Those wishing to hear the Oracle of Maenvestiyaeo’s wise words will have the opportunity to line up before the Prince Josef and listen well to his auspicious or inauspicious musings. [1] An Observation Essay on Haeseni Crows. Mahaut van Leuven, 542 E.S. [2] The Portents of Crows and Their Impact. Mahaut van Leuven, 546 E.S. III. THE KAROVIC FEAST Whilst the events of the day are being overseen by the Lady Mahaut and the Prince Josef, there will simultaneously be a feast named after the traditional kind ordinarily held during Sigismund’s Day. In times past, the feast was limited to those of Karovic and thus direct dynastic descent of Carrion but the practice is outdated and indeed a large percentage of our Kingdom can trace their lineage back to Sigismund. Thus we find it appropriate on this Sigismund’s Day to host the feast for everyone, be they Karovic, other nobility or the common person. Tradition will still dictate the food on offer however. The meal will be composed of veal, iskov (blend of potatoes and vegetables), and restineol (salted horse brain) with plenty of portions to go around on the grand feasting table to be set out on the square. To wash it down will be pitchers of Carrion Black, enough for everyone, as is to be expected and water down Carrion Black for the children. The Exalted’s day falls within: The Month of WZUVAR AG BYVCA, 550 E.S. in the ROYAL CITY OF NEW VALDEV [Wednesday, October 2nd, 4pm EST] ╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ GODANI JEST WIELKI, His Excellency, Rickard Kortrevich, Royal Curator of Hanseti-Ruska and Grand Maer of New Valdev Her Ladyship, Mahaut van Leuven, Deputy Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska and Crow Warden of the Royal Court

Letter to the Royal Duma: PUBLIC SERVICE EXEMPTION KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, IT IS IMPORTANT TO AID OUR CITIZENS AND PROVIDE WHATEVER ASSISTANCE WE MIGHT OFFER FOR THOSE PROVIDING ADMIRABLE SERVICES TO THE KINGDOM. One of these citizens who has proven their commendable service is one Maȟpíya Wakąjazi @Gaius Marius - Widu Marik and though they are not born Haeseni they have more than earned the right to call themself one by deed. They have aided me personally by formatting a ceremonial copy of the Edict of Separation to be signed by the King on the anniversary of Haeseni independence. Firr Wakąjazi did so in his capacity as owner and operator of the Grand Library of Jahan-Mahpiya on Barbovstriet and out of the kindness of his own heart permits the public access to all of his private collection for free in the spirit of educating our peoples. I feel it is only right to bid His Majesty’s Royal Duma that we consider what we might do to help encourage not only Firr Wakąjazi but those like him in the future. Thus I propose we afford Firr Maȟpíya Wakąjazi’s Grand Library an exemption from taxation for as long as it continues to provide a public service. If such is passed by the Royal Duma it will express our appreciation for the building and our willingness to see His Majesty Marius III facilitate these kinds of selfless ventures within our Royal City. IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Rickard ‘Ricky Dicky’ Kortrevich, Grand Maer of New Valdev

KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM “PROTECT THIS KINGDOM” Issued by the THE OFFICE OF THE CURATOR On this 9th day of Msitza ag Dargund of 547 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, COME AND CELEBRATE NEARLY TWO HUNDRED YEARS OF HAESENI INDEPENDENCE AND ALL OUR FAIR KINGDOM’S ACHIEVEMENTS OVER ITS LONG HISTORY. The anniversary of the signing of the Edict of Separation that secured Haeseni independence and sovereignty from the Empire is upon us once again. Four saint’s years after the historic document was agreed upon, we now take the commemoration of it to remind ourselves of our preservation over the centuries as well as our cultural identity and its foundations. Throughout the month of Gronna ag Droba this year we will have a series of celebrations, a parade, historical accounts on display for the public and a mass. I. THE PARADE To start the day, the King himself will reenact the famous march into the royal city of his ancestor King Josef after having symbolically resigned the Edict of Separation once more outside the city limits. The royal retinue will ride and march through the city to the cheers of the crowd towards the steps of the Palace where the King will announce another year of Haeseni independence and present the Edict for all to read. A thanks will be given to our forebears who secured our sovereignty as well as the late Empress Anne I for peacefully releasing our prestigious Kingdom to be governed by ourselves. Then the fireworks to bring the opening of the celebrations to close will shoot up into the sky and explode in bouts of colour. II. THE REVELRY OF CROWS At the behest of the Royal Curator, the square shall be turned into a hub of history of our fair nation. The esteemed nobility of the Kingdom have been invited to share the tales and achievements of their houses in furthering the prosperity of Hanseti-Ruska. As well as this, the Office of the Curator will provide tomes and tell the history of our realm throughout the day so all might be better versed in our impressive past and what we Haeseni can achieve together. Not only will there be opportunities to learn about our days of yore but there will also be presents of all the nation’s favourite staples of Haeseni food and drink. The revelry truly begins with the Carrion Black drinking contest in which everyone is encouraged to partake all the way up and down the mainstreet followed by a chant started by the Brotherhood of Saint Karl. All Haeseni citizens will find it their duty to join in as a display of national pride. III. THE EVE OF MEMORIUM To finish the official events of the day, there will be a unique kind of mass held within the Basilica of St. Joren and the Broken Chains by Patriarch Villorik in what has been termed ‘the Eve of Memorium’ by the late Queen Amaya of Venzia. This is the time where all people of the dual Kingdom come together to pay their respects to those who have given their lives in service to our country. The Eve is concluded with the ‘Last Drink of Death’ where attendees raise a toast led by the royal family to the figures of our illustrious past. Each person pours half the drink onto the floor in a sign of respect for the departed before a prayer is said and the rest of the cup’s content is consumed heartily. The rest of the night is free to be celebrated however one wishes after this point. The anniversary falls on: The Month of Gronna ag Droba, 548 E.S. IN THE ROYAL CITY OF NEW VALDEV [Saturday, September 21st, 4pm EST] ╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ GODANI JEST WIELKI, His Excellency, Rickard Kortrevich, Royal Curator of Hanseti-Ruska and Grand Maer of New Valdev The Noble, Mahaut van Leuven, Deputy Grand Lady of Hanseti-Ruska and Crow Warden of the Royal Court

"I've had many a note the same." Ricky Dicky boasted with a puff out of his chest after he sucked in his rapidly growing gut.

SORTES EXALTATUS VOLUMEN DIVINATION OF THE EXALTED’S SCROLLS or SCROLLOMANCY PREFACE Sortes Exaltatus Volumen, known colloquially as Scrollomancy, is a method of divination. Divination being the use of a certain method to gain further insight into a question or the future by way of a specific occultist ritual or practice. Scrollomancy is typically done by closing one's eyes and selecting one of the four Holy Scrolls at random. Then the first words a person sees when they open their eyes are interpreted as predictive. METHOD Sortes Exaltatus Volumen, known colloquially as Scrollomancy, is rather simple to implement in fortune telling. The four Holy Scrolls are laid out in front of the one wishing to auspicate their future or to know what God wishes them to do and they close their eyes. They select a scroll at random, trace their finger down and land on a specific Canticle, Epistle, Book or Vision from the Scroll of Virtue, Spirit, Gospel and Auspice respectively and on a specific line that will reveal part of their fortune. Typically this is repeated three times but variations from practitioners vary and is largely down to the individual. [OOC] Roll for scroll on a d4, then for the canticle on a d(#) depending on how many canticles, epistles, books, or visions (sections) the scroll chosen has, and then roll a d(#) depending on how many lines that specific section has. For instance, roll a 1 on the d4 you get the Scroll of Virtue which has 7 canticles so you roll a d7. For this example you rolled a 3 on that d7, you’d get the (3) Canticle of Temperance and would then roll a d10 because that Canticle has 10 lines. Let’s say you rolled a 10, you’d then have your first line of your ‘fortune’, being: “10 And I am the Lord GOD without peer, and My joys are the holy joys, and My comfort is the virtuous comfort, and all the blessings of the Virtue shall fall before the righteous who do not indulge.” How that would be interpreted is obviously down to the characters involved and on the context. That line from the Scroll for instance could potentially be comprehended as meaning your character will have a particularly addictive personality and thus they should avoid ‘indulging’ otherwise something bad might happen to them. However it might also be interpreted as affirming to that character that received the fortune that they are particularly good at not overindulging and can continue in their current lifestyle being convinced they’re living piously even if they sometimes do indulge in wine, food, etcetera. The point being it is up to the specific character to rationalise what their fortune might mean as a little bit of interesting roleplay. TABLE [OOC] Below are a series of tables that should help navigating this quirky little potential for interesting roleplay easier. It just goes through step by step what to do and what you need to roll in game. When you get to the part about lines, you should see on the Holy Scroll google docs (linked below) and find your specific Canticle, Epistle, Book or Vision (sections), roll the corresponding line number and find it on the google document. There will be an example with screenshots at the bottom in a spoiler. I. THE HOLY SCROLLS Roll a d4 - (/roll 4) Which Scroll your fortune uses 1 Scroll of Virtue 2 Scroll of Spirit 3 Spirit of Gospel 4 Spirit of Auspice II. THE SECTIONS AND LINES The Scroll of Virtue Roll a d7 (/roll 7) Which Canticle from the Scroll of Virtue your fortune uses How many lines it has and what you need to roll 1 Canticle of Faith 9 (do /roll 9) 2 Canticle of Charity 11 (do /roll 11) 3 Canticle of Temperance 10 (do /roll 10) 4 Canticle of Diligence 9 (do /roll 9) 5 Canticle of Patience 10 (do /roll 10) 6 Canticle of Fidelity 9 (do /roll 9) 7 Canticle of Humility 9 (do /roll 9) The Scroll of Spirit Roll a d7 (/roll 7) Which Epistle from the Scroll of Spirit your fortune uses How many lines it has and what you need to roll 1 Epistle to the Godwinites 22 (do /roll 22) 2 Epistle to the Jorenites 18 (do /roll 18) 3 Epistle to the Harrenites 19 (do /roll 19) 4 Epistle to the Elves 17 (do /roll 17) 5 Epistle to the Dwarves 19 (do /roll 19) 6 Epistle to the Orcs 19 (do /roll 19) 7 Epistle to the Magi 18 (do /roll 18) The Scroll of Gospel Roll a d7 (/roll 7) Which Book from the Scroll of Gospel your fortune uses How many lines it has and what you need to roll 1 Book of Provenance 50 (do /roll 50) 2 Book of Horen 78 (do /roll 78) 3 Book of Scattering 67 (do /roll 67) 4 Book of Owyn 62 (do /roll 62) 5 Book of Silence 50 (do /roll 50) 6 Book of Godfrey 63 (do /roll 63) 7 Book of Sealing 66 (do /roll 66) The Scroll of Auspice Roll a d3 (/roll 3) Which Vision from the Scroll of Auspice your fortune uses How many lines it has and what you need to roll 1 Vision of Portent 42 (do /roll 42) 2 Vision of Strife 49 (do /roll 49) 3 Vision of Paradise 17 (do /roll 17) III. IN-GAME EXAMPLE

Little Grand Prince Karl fills his diaper with great gusto.

"Ooh ee ooh ah ah ting tang walla walla bing bang!" Ricky Dicky dances happily in his office at the announcement.

"I'm Grand Maer and I know I'll do one thing right by supporting this man!" Ricky Dicky commented to anyone who'd listen in the Tipsy Tarchar tavern.

THE ROYAL CITY OF NEW VALDEV THE MULDAV CLEANSING Issued by the GRAND MAER On this 10th day of Wzuvar ag Byvca of 540 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, THE GATES OF MULDAV ARE ROUTINELY OVERRUN WITH BANDITS AND BEASTS BUT NO MORE. As I mentioned in my campaigning to become your Grand Maer I noted my worrying discoveries in my role as Master of the Hunt. The Gates of Muldav, the three colossal arches that lie to the west of the city, are pivotal for trade with the Principality of Reinmar and indeed the whole of the west of Aevos. As such it is imperative that we not only maintain the routes through them but keep them clear of any threats that might impede or prove fatal to simple traders and travellers. I ask as your Grand Maer for volunteers to aid me in this undertaking. Warriors are primarily what is needed but hunters will be well suited to the task as well and of course medics are ever important when setting out on a dangerous mission or what may prove to be multiple dangerous trips. The first of these problems we must tackle is a gathering of prismatic spiders. Though they are unassuming, do not be misled. These spiders possess venomous bites with varying and dangerous effects including, but not limited to, paralysis and nausea. Ordinarily the prismatic spiders keep to themselves out of the way of the path through the Gates of Muldav but have recently taken up residency in an adjoining cavern. This has proven to be an immediate problem that must be dealt with. I ask, as both Grand Maer and Master of the Hunt, for the benefit of our fair city, that any willing should attend a meeting to discuss a plan and execute it within the next year. If anyone has any questions feel free to contact myself before we undertake this task. The Muldav Cleansing shall take place during: The Month of Vyzmey ag Hyff, 541 E.S. Meeting at the Tipsy Tarchar Tavern & Inn Thursday, August 1st, 5pm EST KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM, His Excellency, Rickard Kortrevich, Royal Curator of Hanseti-Ruska, Grand Maer of New Valdev, and Master of the Hunt

Rickard 'Ricky Dicky' Kortrevich is ready to overdo it at the celebrations and bust a move after visiting the open bar one too many times.

Some of the best shaders and screenshot work I've ever seen, amazing work

Letter to the Royal Duma: ADDITIONS TO THE ORDERS OF MERIT KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER PEOPLE WHO HAVE SERVED THEIR KINGDOM AND ACKNOWLEDGE THEM ACCORDINGLY. As such, and at Her Majesty’s behest in a previous sitting of the Royal Duma, we have gathered a list of notable individuals who have done exemplary work in service of their kingdom. Be it through their administrative skills, creativity and furthering of Haeseni art, or defending our fair land with sword and shield in hand, we put forward these names for the consideration of the chamber. I have added more in-depth descriptions of certain individuals as needed. We have compiled and suggest the following Haeseni patriots: The Robertine Order of Merit Iosif Basrid - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Lord Palatine and Patriarch of Jorenus. Posthumous. Ser Vanhart ‘the Flying Carrot’ Barclay - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Lord Treasurer. Posthumous. (Alternatively in the Walton Order of the Unyielding for services to the Crown and kingdom as a Marian Knight) Ioanna d’Arkent-Kortrevich - For services to the Crown, kingdom and the Royal City as Grand Maer of New Valdev. Villorik var Ruthern - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Patriarch of Jorenus and spearheading the beginning of the Jorenic Rite. The Wailer Order of Arts Viorica Kortrevich - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Grand Lady of the Esrova Prikaz. Posthumous. Galina Godunov - For substantial contributions as Mistress of the Wardrobe. Charlotte Alstion - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Chief Architect of New Valdev. Wylein Alpyne - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Chief Architect of Morteskvan and aided in the planning and construction of New Valdev. Posthumous. The Walton Order of the Unyielding Nikolai Colborn - For services to the Crown, kingdom and Church of the Canon as Grand Inquisitor of the Holy Inquisition. Posthumous. Ser Vladimir ‘Hothand’ var Ruthern - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Knight Paramount. Posthumous. Ser Leonid d’Arkent-Kortrevich - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Lord Marshal and for his sacrifice. Posthumous. Ser Rickard Tosali-Ruthern - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Lord Marshal. Villorik var Ruthern - For services to the Crown and kingdom as Patriarch of Jorenus and his unparalleled victories over darkspawn. IV JOVEO MAAN, HIS LORDSHIP, Rickard Kortrevich, Kastellan of Stewardy HER GRACE, Tatiyana vas Ruthern, Duchess of Vidaus

HAESENI HUNTS IN THE KINGDOM OF HANSETI-RUSKA Written by: Rickard H. Kortrevich, Master of the Hunt Published by: Baruch & Kortrevich Publishings PREFACE [OOC] The encounter table works off of a series of d20 rolls in-game. Depending on the overall number rolled + whatever bonuses one adds will determine what animal, beast or monster they encounter and by extension the value of said hunt. Each large enough area to feasibly host a hunt within Haense will be given a name and its own specific encounter table and a guaranteed unique legendary hunt if you will, whether that be an abnormally large animal, one of a different colour or a monster of some kind. People within the community can be entrusted to be professional hunters and put on official state hunts where the hunted animal or so on can be kept as a prize or exchanged for a monetary reward from the Master or Mistress of the Hunt (an official appointed position by the Crown in Haense). SPECIFIC HUNTING REGION FORMAT [OOC] Explanation of the region and what the landscape is like then put the encounter table for the place down below including the rolled number needed, the hunted animal names, a brief physical description, and the monetary value. Number Needed [OOC] Name Description Value (mina) Very High (20 and above) Legendary Animal text 75+ High (15 and above) High Tier Animal text 30+ Middling (9 and above) Mid Tier Animal text 15+ Low (1 and above) Low Tier Animal text 5+ PREPARATION Potential hunters can prepare for a forthcoming hunt in a number of ways which can increase the chances of coming across harder to find or more prestigious targets. In fact the only way one has a chance of successfully hunting a legendary animal is with clever tactics, preparation and a healthy dose of luck. The Master of the Hunt will be establishing a store somewhere within the Royal City of New Valdev soon to supply specific baits, traps, whistles, etcetera to aid in any hunt. THE GATES OF MULDAV Named after the Grand Principality of Muldav, the primary title of the extinct House Alimar who were a cadet branch of Haense’s royal house Barbanov-Bihar. Though close to the capital city and the village of Waltonburg, the Gates of Muldav are consistently problematic due to the high number of dangerous species that inhabit the region. The hilltop above the valleys on either side are rocky and treacherous for the uninitiated due to its populations of manticores and gryphons as well as the less monstrous mountain lions. Below in the dank caverns and pathways through the Gates there are numerous insectoid and monstrous species that cause havoc if left unchecked. Perhaps the most monstrous of all and, if the rumours are to be believed, the creator of the giant gaping gates themselves is the Karl Foe. An eartheater of unparalleled size, Karl Foe is named such after its similarity to the Giant Worms that destroyed the continent of Athera and specifically the one that fought Saint Karl Barbanov, the founder of the Duchy of Haense. Both Karl and his foe died when Karl sacrificed himself to save the fleeing Haeseni refugees. As such it is the duty of all good Haeseni to seek out the Karl Foe and end it for the good of the Kingdom. Number Needed [OOC] Name Description Value* Unknown Karl Foe Similar in every way to the average eartheater except in size and colour. Where eartheaters are ordinarily near the 20 foot long mark, the Karl Foe is two maybe three times this size and is distinguished by its sickly yellow skin with black spikes. Any genuine information will be rewarded. 20+ Manticore Large, feline-esque predators with leathery, bat-like wings and a serpent’s tail. Manticores are similar in size to a lion and are extremely intelligent. Stacked stones are a good sign of a manticore's presence as well as the smell of sulfur. 85 mina 18-20 Eartheater Large creatures that resemble worms with bone-like spines along their thick skin. The eartheater shifts mass quantities of earth to get around by using their dangerous, toothy maws to eat the earth as their name implies. 65 mina 15-17 Regalis Gryphon A subspecies of gryphon, the Regalis Gryphon is vibrantly coloured in crimson and azure feathers. Atop its head is a crown of the brightest white plumage. Hunting larger prey in groups, regalis gryphon flocks are typically four to six members in size and are lightning quick. 30 mina 10-14 Cave Leech Similar to the eartheaters, cave leeches have featureless faces save for a large and dangerous maw full of teeth. Innately aggressive and the largest of them achieving the size of the average orc, these leeches are culled to keep traders safe. Beware them dropping from the ceiling. 20 mina 6-9 Mountain Lion One of the world’s big cats. Possessing retractile claws and powerful forequarters, neck and jaw which help it hunt and hold prey. When bighorns are sparse, mountain lions steal livestock from the nearby village of Waltonburg. 12 mina 3-5 Bighorn Sheep Named for their large, curved horns. Bighorns wool is light brown to shades of grey and all possess a white rump. They are masters of their homes, traversing rocky hills with startling proficiency. 8 mina 1-2 Prismatic Spiders Big spiders the size of boulders. Prismatic spiders have a bright and iridescent carapace and blend in well with the bioluminescent mushrooms, crystals and moss of their environment. The colour of the spider varies from spider to spider, each with a different effect on their venom. 5 mina *can also be exchanged for the equivalent in Krawns. THE KARENINAS Named in honour of the late Koenas Emma Karenina, Queen-Consort to King Sigismund the Golden and famed for her leadership in changing Haeseni succession laws to absolute cognatic primogeniture (assured inheritance regardless of sex). The Kareninas usher in the frozen Haeseni hinterlands to the north of Valdev and up along the Lahy Strat (the Lahy River in Common). It is the last true frontier in Haense and leads into the inhospitable Ailmere, a land treacherous to the uninitiated and blasted by blizzards more often than not with only a sparse few evergreen, hemlock, pine and spruce trees dotted around. As such the land is more ordinarily used for caribou or elk stalking; stalking of course being the patient and stealthy pursuit of prey on foot without the use of dogs or horses. Hunters are encouraged to remain on the hill and mountain sides that face Lake Georg as to easily relocate oneself should they get lost in the sprawling frost and rime. The more superstitious also tend to equip themselves with a whistle to avoid being whisked away into the Ailmere for all eternity by the Mare of Long Shadows, a pale shadow of a woman who watches from a distance with a pure white piercing gaze that should it land on you will call forth heavy snows and nightmares to the ruin of many a great hunter; supposedly. Number Needed [OOC] Name Description Value* Unknown Mare of Long Shadows Believed to be a fable, the Mare is elusive and there are few reports but the ones that do exist tell of an ominous presence watching over those in the north with piercing white eyes and a feminine form. Any genuine information will be rewarded. 21+ Rimetroll Standing well over ten feet tall, the slow-witted Rimetrolls are hulking humanoids with unparalleled strength and a seemingly magical ability to breathe a fatal frost to any in its way. The Haeseni peoples have fought a whole war against these monsters making them of the utmost priority to be culled whenever possible. 100 mina 18-20 Gold Goat Larger than their common cousins, Gold Goats are differentiated further by the silver sheen to their pelt and their famed golden horns and hooves. 50 mina 15-18 Thundermaw Raven Colossally sized birds of prey with a gigantic wingspan that migrate to the Kareninas during their nesting cycles. So named for the static and lightning bolts they can produce. 30 mina 9-14 Stoneback Aveta Related closely to oxen and share the same basic shape and bovine nature, tending to travel in herds. Stonebacks are named such because of the layers of ice and stone that they encourage to attach to their backs; the thickness of which can be used to determine the Aveta’s age. 15 mina 6-8 Elk A member of the deer family with thick bodies, slender legs and short tails. Male elk have stereotypical antlers, pronged with sharp ends. 5 mina 3-5 Caribou Also known as Reindeer. A member of the deer family with brown shaggy fur and a white neck, rump and belly. Oftentimes fuzzy and heavy ‘C’ shaped antlers. 5 mina 1-2 Rabbit Small, furry mammals with long, distinct ears, short fluffy tails, and a pair of upper and lower front buck teeth. N/A *can also be exchanged for the equivalent in Krawns. KAROSWOOD The most recently formed of the locations of this list and the closest to the Royal City. The Karoswood was initially a pitifully small piece of forest to the south-east of the Verelund plains but, due to forestation efforts made during the reign of King Aleksandr II, has developed rather recently into the second largest woodlands within the Kingdom’s borders. It is the most temperate forest within Haense and being a mere short trip to the east out the front gates of New Valdev, it is a common spot amongst commoner and noble alike for impromptu hunting and hikes with the majority of the creatures that inhabit it being docile in almost every instance unless provoked. The Karoswood is known to have an abundance of aspen, birch, maple and oak trees that all seem to project even more vibrant and shimmering foliage than one would expect, theorised to be caused by the exceedingly fertile land they grew from. There exist rumours that, since its founding on the impossibly green and lush plains, the Karoswood is the only place in the entire Kingdom where one might catch sight of the famed Tahala Stag, sometimes called the Elusive Watcher too. If accounts and dubious reports are to be believed, the stag is taller than any man, comparable instead to an olog with a pelt, horns and eyes of impossibly pure silvery white. Upon their horns are seeds surrounded by silver leaves and, if the legend is true, they occasionally fall to the ground and sprout into a small, iridescent silver tree of bone. Hunters are encouraged, should they find the Tahala Stag, not to harm it in any way. If a trophy is wanted then take one of the seeds on its horns as proof of the ultimate hunt in the Karoswood and indeed across the whole Kingdom. Number Needed [OOC] Name Description Value* Unknown Tahala Stag The Tahala Stag is pure white or silver with similarly coloured horns and eyes. Their antlers resemble the branches of a tree, tangled with silver leaves. Any genuine information will be rewarded. 20+ Porculon Bear Bear-like in every regard except for their bristles similar to porcupines but far more dangerous due to their size. Porculon bears can oddly eject these spikes whenever they so desire. They are the apex predators of their environments and thus to be hunted with extreme caution. 75 mina 17-20 Direwolf The largest of the wolf species and with the strongest bite force too. Direwolves are fast and often in packs. 40 mina 13-16 Bobcat Also known as the Red Lynx. They are smaller than other species of Lynx and are best identified by their reddish to tan coat, black streaks and black-tipped and pointed ears. 25 mina 9-12 Badger Powerfully built little animals and expert diggers, their claws are strong and well sized. A badger's most defining traits are perhaps their silvery-grey back with black legs and two black stripes that cover their otherwise white faces. 20 mina 5-8 Roe Deer Relatively small as deer species go. Roe bucks have antlers with two or three points whereas the doe possess no horns at all. 15 mina 1-4 Red Fox Named for their reddish-orange backs. Red foxes are similar to hounds and wolves except much smaller and more lithe in stature with narrower muzzles. They are capable swimmers and can jump great heights, higher than any Haeseni man. 5 mina *can also be exchanged for the equivalent in Krawns. THE VANDER FALLS The most southern spot in Hanseti-Ruska, the Vander Falls are the collection of waterfalls that flow from the Dules and Lahy rivers. The Vander Falls acts as a natural border between the Kingdom of Haense and the Sovereign State of Hyspia. Situated on them and serving as the region's protectors are the noble Colborns in the County of Malkovya. Their land also serves as a good starting point for any southern hunt in the Kingdom. Here there are creatures more suited to a warmer climate with many of them wandering from the scorching desert further north to the edge of the Highland realm. This makes them unique and a challenging hunt for any Haeseni hunter. Number Needed [OOC] Name Description Value* 17-20 Solar Stallion Similar to the more famous kelpie, the solar stallion shares the same horse-like form but with a glowing gold mane and similarly coloured scales. Horns on their head set them apart from any horse though. If that was not enough they also possess rows of sharp teeth that betray the danger it poses if one is not careful. 75 mina 13-16 Drogokroko Crocodile-like with a similar snout and scales. The Drogokroko is reptilian but shaped more akin to oxen with bulky frames and longer legs that have allowed them to travel the land instead of the waters. 30 mina 10-12 Sectah Lynx Cat-like hence the name Lynx but wholly a different species. Sectah Lynx are winged beasts with a dainty and slender feline body but possess a bird-like head. Their beak and claws are well designed to rip through flesh. 15 mina 7-9 Bristling Boar Resembling your usual boar, bristling boards are covered in numerous bristles akin to porcupines. Possessing poor eyesight, these boars are easy to sneak up on but fast to flee. Despite this they do grow to a fair size with the largest being comparable to a bear. 12 mina 4-6 Crocodile Large semi aquatic reptiles that live in warmer waters. Cold blooded and slow moving normally. Beware not to fall into the trap of believing them to always be like this. Crocodiles can move and snap terribly quickly when they desire. 8 mina 1-3 Monk Seal Monk seals favour warmer waters and reside at the bottom of the Vander Falls. They enjoy bathing in the sun on the rocks of the falls. Slender in body and agile with a broad, flat snout. Seals are best caught off guard. 5 mina *can also be exchanged for the equivalent in Krawns. VERELUND The largest and flattest area of the Kingdom of Haense as well as the greenest. The Verelund is the easternmost section of Haense and stretches out across into the Midlands. It is an extremely temperate climate and unbelievably fertile to the point that most crops and animals do well here. Earthquakes of varying magnitudes are commonplace though but are not to be feared as they have never caused major damage thus far. Peculiarly for the almost otherwise pure and uncontaminated landscape there exists an anomaly being a large, dead tree surrounded by an ancient wall that has been reduced to a ruin with no explicable builder or indeed a purpose. Regardless, it is easily avoided in this grand tapestry of rolling hills and plains which is an ideal spot for hunting, especially on horseback or through its occasional groupings of aspen, birch, maple and oak trees. Number Needed [OOC] Name Description Value* 19-20 Common Troll Colossal and gruesome looking, perhaps due to their humanoid appearance. They can tower up to sixteen feet tall and though typically fat looking are incredibly strong. Like their Rimeveld cousins, they are slow-witted and aggressive. They tend to reside in the caves dotted around the Verelund hills. 80 mina 16-18 Caravachorn Monstrous and unnatural, caravachorn has earned their colloquial name, the land shark. Wolf-like in stature but possessing a shark’s head, back fine and tail. They are fast, dangerously so and have rows of razor sharp teeth. They are without a doubt the apex predator of Verelund. 50 mina 13-15 Gullin Large when compared to other species of birds, Gullinkambi or Gullin for short are almost indistinguishable from pheasants. There are only two features that set gullin apart which are their antlers and hooven feat. Their meat tastes like an amalgamation of both game bird and venison. They tend to be rare and skittish so they are considered a luxury. 30 mina 10-12 Prairie Dulk Massive beasts with no known similar species aside from comments that relate them to some southern creature known as a rhinoceros. Dulks have a massive horn on their forehead as well as another two smaller ones over their nose. Its greyish fur helps it blend in with the rocky terrain of hills for the winter months when it hibernates. Big, strong and fearsome, they are a true prize if brought down. 25 mina 7-9 Bison A large, cow-like bovine of impressive stature and hardiness. Bison are some of the heaviest common mammals with thick pelts and are noticeably taller at the shoulders. They are hard to bring down and nearly impossible without forcing one or two away from the herd. 15 mina 4-6 Red Deer One of the largest species of deer with the males called a stag or a hart and the females known as a doe or a hind. Named for their distinctive coppery brown and red fur. Likewise to other species of deer, only harts have antlers which are some of the most recognisable in the world. The Haeseni variant tends to have thick and noticeable mains, particularly during the autumn months. 10 mina 1-3 Hare Similar to your rabbit, hares look very much the same, just larger and with longer ears. Fast with powerful hind legs it is imperative that to have success when hunting hares that you either catch them unawares or chase them down with horses and hounds. 5 mina *can also be exchanged for the equivalent in Krawns. WESTERWALD Acting as a buffer between the Kingdom of Haense and the Principality of Reinmar to the west, the Westerwald is the Haeseni proportion of the colossal woodlands known commonly as the Crothstad filled with spruce, evergreen, and pine trees. It is so named partially for its geographically western position inside the Kingdom but also after the Waldenian peoples and Aesterwald which was the last wholly Waldenian Kingdom before the relatively recent sovereign Barclay principality; coincidentally that principality is housed in this gigantic forest. The Westerwald is not only a popular hunting ground for its immense size. It is also the site of an unexplainable phenomenon that makes it beyond ideal for recreational use. Animals within the Westerwald reproduce, grow and mature at an extremely fast rate, seeing full grown animals reared in a tenth of the time, in a matter of months even and without issue or illness. Most wondrously, all fauna grows up to twice its usual size in other parts of the world and indeed within the Kingdom itself and without any negative traits due to their increased proportions. This has earned all of the Crothstad as well as the Westerwald the title The Endless Hunt. While the Westerwald is the Haeseni name for the forest, it must be stated the reason why the original scouts of Aevos titled it the Crothstad. Crothstad was a legendary hunter, some say perhaps living as long ago as Horen himself. The Westerwald was his hunting ground and his signature stag horned helmet was feared by all the inhabitant fauna. All except one. The Great Chimera. Dark scales and fur, an elongated tail, and a bone-white head set upon a great mane. He hunted for years on end, mastering every aspect of the forest and dominating everyone of its animals but showed reverence for the land. Still the thought of the Great Chimera plagued him and drove him to obsession. Crothstad’s tribesmen died in droves trying to keep up with him in the hunt for his ultimate prize until one fateful day where the two met. No one knows nor do any accounts definitively state if Crothstad or the Great Chimera won. Regardless, the Great Chimera is the highest prize in the Kingdom should it still live and every good hunter’s obsession. Number Needed [OOC] Name Description Value* Unknown The Great Chimera Dark scales and fur, an elongated tail, and a bone-white head set upon a great mane. Elusive if it even exists. Any genuine information will be rewarded. 20+ Tundrastrider Also known as Ice Elk, they are similar to the Great Elk. Tundrastriders are broader, stronger and covered in a heavier fur. Unusually for species of deer, it is an omnivore. One can tell how carnivorous a particular Tundrastrider is by how sharp and translucent their horns are. 75 mina 17-20 Direwolf The largest of the wolf species and with the strongest bite force too. Direwolves are fast and often in packs. Within the Westerwald, they mainly hunt Tundrastriders and Great Elk. 40 mina 14-16 Grizzly Bear The largest of the bear species. Their colour can vary between blonde to nearly black but the most common is brown with darker legs. Grizzlies are marked out by a hump on their shoulders. 30 mina 11-13 Snow Leopard Snow Leopards’ fur is whitish to grey with black spots along the entirety of its body. They are stockier than most cats with a bushy tail and small rounded ears. 20 mina 7-10 Lynx Lynxes’ fur is brown or at times reddish with black spots. The underparts of their coats including the neck and chin are whitish. Extremely fast with their powerful, long legs and well adapted to the snow of the north of the Westerwald. 15 mina 3-6 Bokolo Large flightless birds with long, powerful and sturdy legs. Extremely fast and quick to flee. The most common type of Bokolo in the Westerwald is one with green plumage. 10 mina 1-3 Great Elk A colossal, tall shouldered variant of the elk. Its flat, fan-like antlers spread out nearing 20 feet, pronged with sharp ends. 10 mina *can also be exchanged for the equivalent in Krawns.

Rickard 'Ricky Dicky' Kortrevich puts his name forward for the ballot as well as a copy of his propaganda.

RICKARD KORTREVICH FOR GRAND MAER STEWARD AND WARD TO THE LAST GRAND MAER Published by: Baruch & Kortrevich Publishings On this 10th day of Tov ag Yermey of 534 E.S. “We prosper to prosper others. We prosper to prosper our city. We prosper to prosper our Kingdom. Prosperity starts when one wills it." GRAND MAER IOANNA D’ARKENT-KORTREVICH, THE 528 E.S. GRAND MAER’S FORUM I have been encouraged to run for the esteemed position of Grand Maer of New Valdev in the forthcoming elections and have never so readily accepted a challenge. A Maer must be competent. A Maer must be good at communicating. A Maer must know the city and what it needs. A Maer must be as passionate, energetic, driven and diligent. It is most fortuitous then that I possess all these qualities. That alone is reason enough to take a chance and vote for me, Rickard Kortrevich, however beyond the necessary self trumpeting and boasting there is much I would do and strive to be that I may use my background knowledge to facilitate. Though my working career has admittedly been short due to my young age one should not be dismissed for that alone. Instead I say why not decide based on their potential in the role. What can they bring to the table? I offer the perspective of the soon to be dominant generation. On top of that I do have some experience prudent to being a good Grand Maer that gives me greater insights into what I may do for the city. As Master of the Hunt and even before, having started a bestiary and kept a journal on all the Haeseni woodlands and countryside, I can see the need for culling certain creatures that pose a risk to travellers, pilgrims and merchants coming to our fair city. As a Steward, the one with the most house sales in the last six years, I have seen behind the curtain on what properties are popular, what we need more of and I have plans on how to maximise on that to make our city prosper even further. As the Ward of the last Grand Maer, Lady Ioanna, I personally collected the information and drew the sketches of the city as well as wrote the guide entitled "The Royal City of New Valdev". This was published through my own company, Baruch & Kortrevich Publishings which firstly makes me more in tune with the business requirements the city needs to ensure good trade is maintained but also allows me to circulate news, guides, articles, etcetera for the benefit of the people of our city to the cost of myself and not the Crown. This leaves more money for the things that truly matter. I intend to keep producing works like before and I have many more loftier goals should you vote for me and give me the opportunity to show that my will to make the city prosperous will be made manifest. Should you elect me I solemnly promise to see through these goals as swiftly as I can. They are: THE ENACTMENT OF THE CITY ACCESSIBILITY BILL As many of you will be well aware of, the back gate of the Royal City has long been lacking a set of citizen doors. In the bill by our own Princess Stefaniya, passed by the Duma this very Saint’s day, it outlines and shows clearly the want for this. I concur wholeheartedly and as soon as I am elected it will be the first act done on my first day in office. THE REVITALISATION OF WALTONBURG Waltonburg has fallen on hard times as of late, never quite recovering from the fallout of the Midlands War and the destruction of its natural beauty, farms and even its church at the hand of the mecha-priest. I would strive to see Waltonburg returned to a state where people not only can live there but want to! Retirees of the Brotherhood could retire and farm according to Biharism and the Jeremic Liberties that every Haeseni is owed most of all our fighting men and women. It would also offer more viable housing within the city limits that has been growing dwindling short in years past. I would enquire with the Crown the current plan and aid or spearhead the revitalisation however I can. CONTINUATION OF THE MAER’S FORUMS My mentor introduced the Maer’s Forum where petitioners could seek them out easily in the Tipsy Tarchar Tavern at a set time and day. This gave them an insight into the lives and needs of the city’s inhabitants. I would continue this practice and host a forum the Saint’s day before each sitting of Their Majesties’ Royal Duma to present the common people’s petitions in the chamber on their behalf. ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TO COMPLETE THE MUSEUM Firress Deia has done an admirable job of setting up the Haeseni Museum in the Aranykort section of the city. They have done the majority of the work single-handedly and without complaint. I would offer my own time and expertise to help get the museum open as quickly as possible, aiding the Firress however I may. I would also begin supplying the funds necessary for its completion. CULLING OF MONSTERS IN THE GATES OF MULDAV In my role as Master of the Hunt for the Crown I have witnessed and recorded first hand the effects of our local fauna on the city’s trade and its roads that connect it to the rest of the world. While most are well maintained and unproblematic, the Gates of Muldav have proven a breeding ground for dangerous species such as giant cave leeches and manticores. With the increased resources afforded to me with the office of Grand Maer, I would see these more frequently culled to ensure safer roads with the help of the city’s bravest volunteers, hunters and members of the Brotherhood. Signed by Lord Rickard Kortrevich Steward of New Valdev [!] Attached below is a pamphlet.

With the lad dead Yuri cried over the surplus of Esterian Whiskey, the world's finest and oldest brand of whiskey sold at the Tipsy Tarchar Tavern & Inn, he was now left with.

VE JULIYAFEST THE REZNIAN HUNT Issued by the MASTER OF THE HUNT On this 9th day of Wzuvar ag Byvca of 534 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG ELDERVIK, WITH THE COMMENCEMENT OF JULIYAFEST SO TOO DO THE REZNIAN GAMES. Traditionally the Games are composed of a hunt and a tourney. Her Grace the Duchess of Vidaus has been kind enough to host the tilt this holy festival of St. Juliya but it falls to me as the new Master of the Hunt to organise the REZNIAN HUNT. Fortunately there is no better time with the turn of the seasons and beginning of the Haeseni spring which starts the hunting cycle anew. As mentioned in the announcement for the start of Juliyafest by Her Majesty the Queen and the Grand Lady, St. Juliya of Paradisius is the Patron of Matrimony, the union between man and woman. Since the reign of Blessed Queen Amaya though, St. Juliya and her festival is about the relationship between the Haeseni people and their country. Thus those who are participating in Juliyafest can also attend this hunt in our most inhabited woodlands, the WESTERWALD. Animals are known to grow to double the size of their regular counterparts here and develop into adulthood even quicker. Thus it is the perfect spot to go hunting for pelts to be bestowed upon those you wish to court, have an interest in or merely wish to show your thanks for their company. For those already with partners but still wish to enjoy the festivities of Juliyafest, you are welcome to join alongside the others but with a twist however. You shall hunt together, you and your partner, as a team in a paired hunt; a tradition started by one of my predecessors Ser Mikhail Valkonen. It sees the couple rely on their bond and cooperation to succeed as one is blindfolded and given a crossbow whilst the other reloads it for them and guides them to their target. The Reznian Hunt shall take place during: The Month of Vyzmey ag Hyff Friday, June 14th, 6pm EST KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM, His Lordship, Rickard Kortrevich, Master of the Hunt

"Have you heard of the Tipsy Tarchar's world famous Duma Bundle? When only being hammered can make Duma bearable." Yuri signed off with a photogenic thumbs up at the camera.

THE ROYAL CITY OF NEW VALDEV CAPITAL OF THE DUAL KINGDOM OF HANSETI-RUSKA Written by: Rickard H. Kortrevich At the Behest of: The Office of the Grand Maer Published by: Baruch & Kortrevich Publishings “Razed by a comet and reborn from its heavenly ashes, this city is the very heart and soul of our Kingdom. A home to all Haeseni.” GRAND MAER IOANNA KORTREVICH, 530 E.S. The Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska and Its People Known officially as the Dual Monarchy of the Kingdoms of Hanseti and Ruska, the nation is perhaps better known by its colloquial form of simply Haense. Ruled over by a semi-absolute monarchy, the Kingdom thrives as the undoubtedly the most powerful Northern nation and indeed one of the foremost states in all of Almaris. Though the Kingdom accepts people of all races and creeds it is primarily composed of the Human subrace known as Highlanders, a rugged and hardy people who have occupied the North for centuries and centuries. Haense is the oldest continuous state in all of humanity with over 400 years of history as a Kingdom and even older roots. People who come to call the thriving Kingdom home are known as the Haeseni, the descendants of notable Northern cultures that came to culminate in Haense. Built on a sense of honour that drives their laws and outlook, the Haeseni are a proud and compassionate people but tough and breed what many think of as the typical Northernmen. Known for their nobles and knights, councillors and justiciars, soldiers, priests and merchants, Haense has opportunities for people of all walks of life. The most common ancestry and cultures are: The modern and loyal New Marians - the urban living descendants of the people who flocked to Haense and its most numerous ethnicity. Typically the newly arrived common people, merchants, traders and burghers belong to this group of peoples and indeed a number of noble houses too including the Houses of Amador, Kortrevich and Ludovar. Most live in and around the capital city of New Valdev. The wise and seafaring Ayrikiv - originally a subset of the Waldenian peoples, they have thrived under the Kingdom of Haense and grown into a formidable culture of tartan wearing politicians and soldiers. Sailing is of special importance to the Ayrikiv and are without a doubt the most dominant on the waves. The Ayrikiv are housed primarily in the Duchy of Valwyck to the far west of the Kingdom. The carousing and passionate Raevirs - there still exist people who claim descent from the Raevir, the people of the original ancient Kingdom of Ruska, and thus make their home in modern day Haense. Known for their heavy drinking and more traditional mindsets, they are the most rugged of the Haeseni peoples and take great pride in their history and Ruskan aesthetic that is still popular. Most find themselves friends with the similarly cultured Rutherns of the Duchy of Vidaus and the Godunovs of the Barony of Verskaya. Most feel a calling to and reside in and around the North of the Kingdom. The ancient and hardworking Scyflings - mostly descendants of the Nord Lords of Athera, Scyflings came under the fold of Haense in the days before the Kingdom when it was a mere Duchy that helped unite the North thanks to the Scyfling’s patron saint, Saint Carr of Carrenhall. Ritualistic, agriculturally minded and hardy, these people have endured through everyone of Haense’s hardships and come out ever hopeful. While some might point out that they still hold some values similar to their ancient pagan ways, they are devout Canonists through and through these days. Scyflings can find a home with the noble Houses of Colborn and Valkonen in the County of Malkovya and the Barony of Svargrad respectively. The proud and pious Waldenians - one of the groups of people who helped found the original Duchy of Haense under the leadership of the famed Saint Otto ‘the Bald’ of Vanderfell. They are incredibly pious and take great note of anything of Canonist (the dominant human religion) but are also known for their knights, horses and weapon forging. Since the release of the House of Barclay’s vassalage, the House of Weiss and their land, the Viscounty of Novkursain, have become the home of Waldenian culture in the Kingdom. Location Those that find themselves at the hub known as Cloud Temple need only make a short trip straight forward to the travel pillars, straight on to the back of them to the pillar marked with Haense that takes you to the Midlands (the starting point on the map above). As seen in the map, any person can easily get to the front gates of New Valdev by following the simple (red) path east of the Midlands pillar. Head through the woods and once you see the tourney grounds you’re at the entrance to the imposing and cultural hub that is the Royal City of New Valdev. Landmarks The Royal City hosts a plethora of notable landmarks and attractions which any traveller or would-be Haeseni should see. Whether it be food, drink, historical sites or buildings of note and unparalleled architecture there is something for all in the Royal City of New Valdev. To name a few there are: KASSTEL LESANOV The Royal Palace, constructed at the behest of King Ivan VIII and Queen Nataliya of Ghaestenwald, is the current royal abode in the very heart of the city. The tallest and largest structure in New Valdev, the Kasstel is hard to miss with its grandiose exterior and extravagant interior. Whilst half of the palace is reserved for the use of the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar, the ground floor portion is open to the public and sees plenty of traffic as both a sight-seeing destination but also the setting of many Crown endorsed balls and festivities. Also housed in the Kasstel are the Royal Archives, an excellent place for any would-be scholar. THE BROTHERHOOD BARRACKS Home to the armoury of the city, the soldiers’ quarters, and their training grounds and feast hall. The Brotherhood Barracks are immediately on your right as you enter through the gates of the fair capital. Should one wish to join up with the national army, the Brotherhood of Saint Karl, then they should arrive at the barracks and ask after the Lord Marshal Caspian Colborn or any officer. THE BASILICA OF SAINT JOREN & THE BROKEN CHAINS The home of worship and prayer in the Royal City as well as the heart of the Jorenic Rite, the specific form of Canonism followed in Haense. The Basilica is situated on the main square, Aleksandrplatz, and is set apart by its grandeur and distinctive colourful style in the Jorenic style. Housed below are the tombs of the Haeseni Kings and above is the symbolic resting place of Exalted Sigismund with the reliquary of saintly relics across from it. The grandiose church is a popular stop on any pilgrimage. THE TIPSY TARCHAR TAVERN & INN The ever popular tavern resides in the main square and serves both food and drink that are staples of Haeseni cuisine. One cannot leave New Valdev without tasting a world famous Carrion Black and having a merry time with bar games, cards or the occasional bare-knuckle boxing match. People looking for a job are encouraged to inquire inside about becoming a tavernkeep or about the rooms above. THE DUMA HALL Adjacent to the tavern and likewise on the main square just before the entrance to the Royal Palace, the Duma Hall stands proud as the centre of Haeseni legislation. If one is so lucky as to be visiting the capital city during the time that the King’s Royal Duma is in session they can watch from the public gallery and witness every peer or their representatives decide the future of the Highland realm. THE HOSPITAL OF SAINT AMYAS Immediately to the left of the city as you enter through the front gates, the Hospital of Saint Amyas is so named after the Saint Amyas of Yore, the patron saint of medicine, healing, botany and wild herbs. Taking care of the Haeseni ill and injured, the hospital is run by the Surgeon General and their team of medics. Classes on the correct medical practices are held here frequently. THE HAESENI MUSEUM Originally a concept brought to Haense under the Northern Geographical Society (NGS), the Haeseni Museum was reformed to specialise in only Haeseni history under then Deputy Lord Palatine Otto Gant. Situated just past the barracks and city park in the Aranykort, the museum is open to the public and hosts a variety of interesting exhibitions such as information and relics pertaining to historic events and people. Come and read about every one of the past Kings of Queens of Haense. THE ARENA & TOURNEY GROUNDS Before the front gates near the city limits, the arena and tourney grounds is a frequent hotspot for Royal events as well as duels over damaged honour. Traditionally used in the larger scale jousts and for the approximately decennial Grand Champion Tournament, aimed at finding the finest fighter in Haense. One cannot miss the chance to compete here. Notable Officials KING MARIUS III OF HANSETI-RUSKA Marius Nikolas Barbanov-Bihar | doggedwasupxxx | @Doggedwasupxxx The ruling and twenty-fourth King of Hanseti-Ruska. The highest authority in the realm on all matters secular, the King is obeyed by all Haeseni and is a welcome sight amongst the people in the city of New Valdev. God bless him and long may he continue to reign. QUEEN-CONSORT JULIYA OF REINMAR Juliya Elena Barbanov-Bihar née Barclay | annabanana1014 | @annabanana1014 The ruling and twenty-third Queen-consort of Hanseti-Ruska. The wife of the King, the Queen is a generous soul and her orders are heeded by all Haeseni as one of the executors of the Crown’s will. God bless her. LORD PALATINE ERIK KORTREVICH Erik Otto Kortrevich | erictafoya11 | @erictafoya The Lord Palatine is the leader of the Aulic Council, who control the Haeseni government, and the greatest advisor to the Crown. One can find the Palatine in and around the Palace and has authority over most matters so will hear any petition on any issue. LORD MARSHAL CASPIAN COLBORN Caspian Colborn né Layland | Sandman_plays | @Sandman_Plays The Lord Marshal serves on the Aulic Council and is entrusted to oversee the Brotherhood of Saint Karl, the unified state army of Haense, as its commander-in-chief. Any would-be soldier or veteran would do well to seek him out and enlist in the Brotherhood to serve with honour and skill against the Kingdom’s enemies and keep the peace. ROYAL TREASURER HENRIK-OTTO LUDOVAR Henrik-Otto Ludovar | HogoBojo | @HogoBojo The Royal Treasurer serves on the Aulic Council and is entrusted to oversee and cultivate the wealth of the Kingdom. The Treasurer is also responsible for the stewardship of the city; the buying and selling of property both commercial and residential. Any issues or questions relating to the economy, trading or housing are to be directed to him. GRAND MAER RICKARD KORTREVICH Rickard Hieromar Kortrevich | CheekyNolan | @Nolan_ The Grand Maer of New Valdev is the elected figurehead and policy maker pertaining to the Royal City exclusively. In charge of overseeing the tavern and appointing its manager, maintaining the beauty of the fair city, penning city writs and preparing festivities and events for the capital, the Grand Maer is someone that can undoubtedly help anyone with almost anything. PATRIARCH VILLORIK RUTHERN OF JORENUS Villorik Stanislaw var Ruthern | Xarkly | @Xarkly The Patriarch of Jorenus is the Haeseni version of an Archbishop and is thus the head authority in spiritual and church related matters throughout the Archdiocese of Jorenus that covers the entirety of Haense. The Patriarch’s headquarters is the Basilica of Saint Joren and the Broken Shackles within the Royal City of New Valdev. The Patriarch is an approachable individual who is ordinarily somewhere in the city and able to answer any questions about the faith and the Church of the Canon. Housing All manner of homes, from the humble abodes in Little Midden to the mansions of Aranykort, are available if one has the right amount of coin. If you find you do not have the coin fear not for there are numerous jobs and professions available to all manner of people whether that be as a professional soldier in the Brotherhood of Saint Karl, a government official or even as a tavernkeep. Make sure to contact one of the below to get yourself situated in the Capital. Lord Treasurer: Henrik-Otto Ludovar | HogoBojo | [discord: hogobojo] | @HogoBojo Kastellan of Stewardry: Rickard Kortrevich | CheekyNolan | [discord: cheekynolan] | @Nolan_ Stewards: Arnor Midbah | Hawkeye_Gough | [discord: apple_thief] | @Aden Adelina van Leuven | Dramatude | [discord: dramatude] | @Dramatude Magdelene Kortrevich | frankdh | [discord: frankdh] | @frankdh Ludvik Ludovar | FredrickTuefel | [discord: fredrickteufel] | @FredrickTeufel Davyd Colborn | julius55 | [discord: juliusaakerlund] | @JuliusAakerlund Svetlana vas Ruthern | libertyybelle | [discord: libertybelle_] | @libertyybelle Leona | peachcool | [discord: peachcool] | @peachcool Osgod Colborn | RaijenStars | [discord: _nathancr] | @RaijenStars KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM PROTECT THIS KINGDOM

A MIRACLE IN NEW VALDEV OUTSIDE THE BASILICA OF SAINT JOREN & THE BROKEN CHAINS 8th of Horen’s Welcome, 1978 Imperial | 8th of Jula ag Piov, 531 E.S. “Queen Amaya of our most reverent Faith, who's holy blood, martyr's blood, calls out for justice and sanctifies the world on which it had spilt for that God had so loved her” HIGH PONTIFF CAIUS I, THE CONCORD FOR QUEEN AMAYA As witnessed by Yuri Ostrov and many other Haeseni residents. This open letter to His Holiness and His Curia is sent with all due reverence and may the blessings of divine grace continue to be bestowed by Godan on His Holy Church. I believe an act I can only describe as without explanation other than by the will of Godan and divine intercession should be brought to your attention but requires an explanation first. I, Yuri Ostrov, was the one who, on the orders of King Ivan, took the killer up onto the gallows and hung her until she was dead. The killer was the cold-blooded murderer of the late venerable Queen of Haense, Amaya of Venzia. I do not regret my role in the execution for I believe it to be wholly just but I cannot deny that the late Queen was an advocate of mercy even to the extreme I would say. More pious and forgiving than any I have had the pleasure of meeting. On the next Saint’s morning after the execution, the gallows had inexplicably sprouted with red flowers. Having grown in the dead of night and bloomed with the most vibrant red roses I have ever seen through cracks of wood and stone, I cannot fathom any other cause for this than the intercession of one from the Skies. For the Church’s benefit I shall include the date when the flowers were first noticed and the date when they wilted suddenly and disappeared: 6th of the Grand Harvest, 1977 | 6th of Gronna ag Droba, 530 E.S. to 12th of the Snow’s Maiden, 1978 | 12th of Wzuvar ag Byvca, 531 E.S. The bewildering event began in the middle of summer and the plants did not vanish until after the deepest part of winter. It is not my place to interpret the will of the Creator nor can I guess which sky each person has ascended to but I feel I must point out the obvious connection. The spot where the fiendish murderer of the merciful and pure Queen Amaya was executed saw roses shoot out of any hole they could. For this reason I have decided it best to submit Your Holiness and the rest of Canondom the facts as you will know more than I on the nature of Godan and His Saints. Should it be verified as a genuine miracle I would petition that it be attributed to venerable Queen Amaya. “And verily the virtuous dead are worthy of our regard, for from them we may claim precious wisdom.” THE SCROLL OF SPIRIT, 5:4 Signed by Firr Yuri Ostrov, Tavernkeep of the Tispy Tarchar Tavern & Inn and Sergeant in the Brotherhood of Saint Karl