Nolan_

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 IVAN VIII OF HANSETI-RUSKA Ivan Aleksandr Barbanov-Bihar | indiana105 | @indiana105 The ruling and twenty-third 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 reign. QUEEN-CONSORT NATALIYA OF GHAESTENWALD Nataliya Leopoldina Barbanov-Bihar née Morovar | kaylacita | @kaylacita The ruling and twenty-second Queen-consort of Hanseti-Ruska. The wife of the King and mother of the Grand Prince, 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 IVO RADOVANIC Ivo Radovanic | Demavend | @Demavend 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 SER 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 MIKHAIL COLBORN Mikhail Ulrik Aleksey Colborn | Kaladin66 | @Kaladin Stormblessed 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 IOANNA KORTREVICH Ioanna Kortrevich née Rostampur | MunaZaldrizoti | @MunaZaldrizoti 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. 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: Mikhail Colborn | Kaladin66 | [discord: edward_snowden] | @Kaladin Stormblessed Stewards: Adelina van Leuven | Dramatude | [discord: dramatude] | @Dramatude Garen Baruch | ferdaboy | [discord: ferdaboy] | @ferdaboy Henrik-Otto Ludovar | HogoBojo | [discord: hogobojo] | @HogoBojo Davyd Colborn | julius55 | [discord: juliusaakerlund] | @JuliusAakerlund Svetlana vas Ruthern | libertyybelle | [discord: libertybelle_] | @libertyybelle Ioanna Kortrevich | MunaZaldrizoti | [discord: munazaldrizotii] | @MunaZaldrizoti 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

Sergeant Yuri had a lucky escape, leaping free from the explosion!

ALEKSANDRPLATZ IV - Royal City of New Valdev - Situated in the Capital of the Kingdom of Haense, the Tipsy Tarchar is the official tavern of the Haeseni state and is run by the approved proprietor. This tavern sports three floors with a beer hall and outdoor seating on the bottom, more private tables and booths above, and at the top a range of fully furnished rooms available for rent. MENU DRINKS: BIHAR BREW - Named in honour of the ruling Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar, Bihar Brew is a more modern drink than the others on sale. This beer is derived from fermented wheat harvested just outside the very walls of New Valdev in Waltonburg, stabilised and embittered with local gruit, a combination of herbs readily found in the North. Relatively inoffensive and smooth, Bihar Brew goes down easy. - 2 mina CARRION BLACK - The principal drink in Haense with its origins dating back nearly six hundred years ago to the Kingdom of Ruska. Undeniably this dark ale-like drink is the most popular order amongst the Haeseni people. - 2 mina ESTERIAN WHISKEY - A single malt whiskey containing a smokey nut and chocolate aroma caused by the peat fires used to dry the malted barley and stored for a minimum of twelve years. It was brewed and sold extensively in Haense after the Estermont-Bihar Trade Act, seeing the House of Estermont become a vital trade partner of the Royal Family. It has been a highly sought after whiskey ever since. - 3 mina FIERY WORM VODKA - At the bottom of each and every shot and bottle is a small worm and the drink is intended to be lit on fire before being consumed. The presentation and manner of drinking this vodka is a reference to the famous story of Saint Karl’s explosive death in Athera. Burningly strong, a shot or, for the especially brave, a bottle is sure to warm the body and make for merry times. - 2 mina HONEY MEAD - Exceedingly popular amongst those of Scyfling descent due to its ancient northern origins, dated back before even the Atheran Nord Lords’ time. First created by flooding beehives, the process is far more refined now and consists of mixing harvested and fermented honey with water. Naturally sparkling and semi-sweet. - 2 mina ILYA VINTAGE - A white wine, originally brewed by the proprietor of the Old Stout Crow Pub, Tarathiel Asul’onn, in Almaris. The pale yellow coloured wine is contained in a green tinted glass bottle and sealed with a golden wax. This chardonnay has a smooth buttercream, oaky vanilla and maple sugar taste topped off with a spot of cinnamon. - 3 mina LUDVIK ANIZ - A red wine, originally brewed by the Sunlit Brewery. It is now the most common form of red wine which had for centuries eluded the Haeseni people. Thankfully the Haeseni elves, knowing more of the tropical and southern alcohols, did share their fantastic wine with the North. A balance of sour, bitter and sweet elements, excellent for any wine enthusiast or simply for anyone. - 3 mina THE KOENG’S NIPPLE - A shot of liquor paired with rich strawberry cream. Originally created by the princess-consort Franziska for her infamous Raev House club. Its name is a joke based on the centuries old tradition of the Haeseni monarch having their nipple pierced as part of their coronation. It is typically drunk as an unofficial means of wishing the King good fortune and health. - 2 mina Non-Alcoholic: GOATS MILK - Introduced during the time of the Colborn proprietors, this more sour milk stayed as the abstinent were needing a drink. In a surprise twist it turns out it is rather good at remedying a bout of indigestion. - 1 mina HOT COCOA - Coming in a wooden mug, this hot cocoa is a particularly delicious creamy drink with a mix of chocolates. Topped off with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of just a pinch of cinnamon. Perfect for those just out of the cold and looking for a bit of respite. - 2 mina - - - FOOD: BEEF STROGANOV [quarter stack of steak] - Sautéed pieces of beef with mushroom served in a mustard and smetana, a sour cream sauce. Originally created for the Ruskan royal family, it is now a rather commonplace dish everywhere. - 5 mina RAEV BORSCHT [1 beetroot soup] - An ancient recipe that has proven popular throughout the ages. Distinctive in its red colour due to the beetroots but it also contains a plethora of ingredients such as boiled beef and pork with julienned cabbage, carrots, parsnips, onions and tomatoes as well as diced potatoes to boot. - 3 mina MARIZBRUD (Marian Bread) [quarter stack of bread] - The basic form of bread in Haense. 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 [1 suspicious 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] - 2 mina EVENTS & TRADITIONS The Tipsy Tarchar boasts a wide variety of traditions from its previous iterations as well as newer ones that bring a liveliness and constant buzz to the atmosphere at the tavern that’s a staple of Haeseni culture for a reason. Some of our more famous events are, but not limited to: 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 the coveted PRINZEN’S ABSINTHE bottle with the winner taking it home. This bottle can only be obtained by winning an official Tipsy Tarchar drinking competition and is stamped with the year. BARE-KNUCKLE BOXING - While not strictly illegal it is certainly not high brow and often frowned upon. Here at the Tipsy Tarchar we see it for what it is - entertainment! Taking place in an undisclosed location that’s revealed when and if fights are happening, there are drinks served, betting and a monetary prize for the bare-knuckle champion. COMING OF AGE DRINKS - Though we in Haense do not have an official drinking age it is generally accepted as being in the 16-18 years old range. Coinciding with a Haeseni’s ascent into adulthood we at the Tipsy Tarchar wish to celebrate it 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 down right terrible choice to your character] INN The Tipsy Tarchar Tavern & Inn boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for any person new to the City of New Valdev or indeed just passersby. There are six rooms total that provide the basic necessities. The rooms are subsidised by the Office of the Grand Maer on specific renting terms. New workers and citizens of Haense are welcome to stay for a period of time, free of charge, until they can find their feet in the booming city. Find and speak to the tavern’s current proprietor Yuri Ostrov (@Nolan_ | CheekyNolan) or any other barkeep for room availability. EMPLOYMENT The Tipsy Tarchar Tavern & Inn is open to peoples of any race or creed as long as they are willing to work hard. Regardless of experience we only ask for a positive attitude and the ambition to sell food and drinks and lots of it. A perfect starter job for people new to New Valdev and indeed could become a lifelong profession if you’ve the mind for it. Contact the tavern’s current proprietor Yuri Ostrov (@Nolan_ | CheekyNolan) or any other barkeep if you are interested.

A TOAST TO VALDEV AND A SCREW YOU TO THE COMET SAINT KARL’S SQUARE - Royal City of Valdev - LORDS & LADIES, SERS & DAMES, BROTHERS & SISTERS, For one night and one night only (not out of choice of course but on account of the giant comet on a destructive path for the city), the Bards & Bottles Tavern is to have one final night of fun and drinking where there are NO RULES and everything is FREE. Smash as many glasses as you please, punch any hole in any wall you like as long as you are sending the tavern off in typical Haeseni fashion. If that was not enough incentive for you then know we’ll be testing out the first batch of our new menu of drinks to be properly launched in whatever will replace Bards & Bottles after Comet Lesanov has ‘wiped the slate clean’. Know as well that there will be a final drinking competition but with the prestigious prize of a bottle of PRINZEN’S ABSINTHE for the winner, a drink that can only be won in Haense’s official tavern! Come with us and after all is said, partied and done, help us close this chapter on our fair city of Valdev. Toast to Koeng, Koenas and country and smash those drinks onto the ground before we set the place alight; literally. After all, why should the comet get to have all the fun? FREE DRINKS. NEW PRIZES. ARSON WITH NO CONSEQUENCES. THIS SAINT’S DAY ONLY

"Finally, some impartial news not afraid to show what they're doing to Waltonburg." Yuri commented as he thanked Father Rhys @ReveredOwl for the bats to smack away the flying mechanical skulls with.

PONTIFICAL LETTER OF THE HIGH PONTIFF XYSTUS QUINTUS MORTEM PONTIFICUS DEATH OF THE PONTIFF HIS HOLINESS SIXTUS V, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD. "And now, the waters of Gamesh spill even into the Void, so the ash of sin is mingled with them, and the World is born again. And no place is forbidden to those perfected in the eyes of God, for the wicked are vanquished forever." (Auspice 3:9-10) Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction. We announce with due reverence and the utmost sadness that the High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon has passed away in his sleep with spoon in hand this last day. In the time between now and the gathering of the College of Cardinals to select amongst the clergy a successor to arise as the next Vicar of God, the Church of the Canon shall be administered by the Vice-Chancellor Arnaud Cardinal Albarosa. HIGH PONTIFF SIXTUS V Born Iosif Sigmar Basrid ☨ ☩DEO NON FORTUNA☩ BY GOD NOT LUCK

To the Friedrichian Band, We appreciate those zealous in the pursuit of God's will and understand the wish to aid all of Canondom but be wary not to extend beyond your own reach or assume your own virtue compared to an entire city. We trust that there has been some form of misunderstanding on your part pertaining to the agreement struck between Our Holy Mother Church and the State of Lurin. We did not march on the city rather we had arranged the time to discuss the appropriate measures to be taken to rid the state of darkspawn and those swayed by Iblees to which the Silver Lubba agreed with Our representative there, Arnaud Cardinal Albarosa. The deal struck was that appointed members of Our and the Curia's choosing shall be permitted to operate with and at times independently in the State of Lurin to conduct actions against Xionists and other corrupt spawn of the defiler Iblees. The Friedrichian Band was neither approved by Us or a member of the Curia to act on Our behalf in these matters nor is it a Holy Order permitted by Us in the service of the Almighty wholly. Therefore you have acted outside of Our wishes and most assuredly not as Our representatives in these delicate affairs. Do not assume to command the start of a Crusade that need not be while there are avenues still available that can save the lives of innocents and devout Canonists alike. Calm yourselves and seek Our permission before acting in Our name. When it is possible, We will always take the path that the most number of virtuous can walk alongside Us on. Signed, Pontifex Maximus Xystus Quintus

VICENSIMUS SECUNDUS AUREA BULLA JORENUS THE TWENTY-SECOND GOLDEN BULL OF JORENUS 22nd of Tobias’ Bounty, 1941 | 22nd of Vzmey and Hyff, 494 E.S. HIS HOLINESS SIXTUS V, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD does decree… TABLE OF CONTENTS ┏━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┓ SECTION I - Opening Prayer SECTION II - Synod Appointments SECTION III - Curia Appointments SECTION IV - Diocesan Restructuring SECTION V - Diocesan Appointments SECTION VI - Veneration ┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛ SECTION I - OPENING PRAYER Almighty God, who doth reside in the holiest of the holy Skies, accept our love and continued devotion. We thank you for being our Creator for you have created us to walk the virtuous path and have watched over us this day. Accept that whatever wrongs we have done this day cause the sincerest of regrets and if we have instead done good know it was in light of Your teachings. Watch over us and may Your grace always be with us. Amen. SECTION II - SYNOD APPOINTMENTS It is through Our Apostolic Right, bestowed unto Us through the Laurel derived from the Exalted that We make these affirmations, alterations, and additions to the College of Cardinals. We decree these appointments… TMR, His Eminence, Matthias Cardinal Lotharia SECTION III - CURIA APPOINTMENTS It is through Our Apostolic Right, bestowed unto Us through the Laurel derived from the Exalted that We make these affirmations, alterations, and additions to the Curia. We decree these appointments… Vice Chancellor, His Eminence, Arnaud Cardinal Albarosa Pontifical Secretary, His Eminence, Josef Cardinal Jorenus Pontifical Chamberlain, His Grace, Stanislaw Bishop Westerwald SECTION IV - DIOCESAN RESTRUCTURING It is through Our Apostolic Right, bestowed unto Us through the Laurel derived from the Exalted, that We see it fit to reconstruct, merge, and establish the following Diocese, so that Our church may be better and more efficiently managed by the accordingly appointed shepherds. The current Diocese within the Patriarchate of Jorenus are to be destroyed and the following established in their place: DIOCESE OF ANDRIKEV Encompassing everything east of the river Lahy in the Patriarchate of Jorenus, currently in Sede Vacante. DIOCESE OF WESTERWALD Encompassing everything west of the river Lahy in the Patriarchate of Jorenus, to be shepherded by the newly appointed Bishop Westerwald. In addition, the following Diocese is to be established within the Archdiocese of Albarosa and another reconstructed: DIOCESE OF CITREA Encompassing everything west of Saint Daniel’s Crossing within the Archdiocese of Albarosa, including the lands of the Commonwealth of Petra and Lemon Hill, to be shepherded by the appointed Bishop Citrea. DIOCESE OF GELIMAR Encompassing the western half of the Kingdom of Aaun within the Archdiocese of Albarosa, including the lands of the Grand Principality of Minitz and the Principality of Merryweather, to be shepherded by the newly appointed Bishop Gelimar. Finally, a second Diocese within the Archdiocese of Artorus is to be formally recognised: DIOCESE OF ST. EMMA Encompassing the northern half of the Archdiocese of Artorus, including the lands of the Veletz League, to be shepherded by the newly appointed Bishop St. Emma. SECTION V - DIOCESAN APPOINTMENTS It is through Our Apostolic Right, bestowed unto Us through the Laurel derived from the Exalted that We decree these appointments… ARCHDIOCESE OF LOTHARIA to be shepherded by His Eminence, Matthias Cardinal Lotharia. DIOCESE OF WESTERWALD, within the Patriarchate of Jorenus, to be shepherded by His Grace, Stanislaw Bishop Westerwald. DIOCESE OF CITREA, within the Archdiocese of Albarosa, to be shepherded by His Grace, Callahan Bishop Citrea. DIOCESE OF GELIMAR, within the Archdiocese of Albarosa, to be shepherded by His Grace, Brandt Bishop Gelimar. DIOCESE OF AQUILA, within the Archdiocese of Artorus, to be shepherded by His Grace, Pious Bishop Aquila. DIOCESE OF ST. EMMA, within the Archdiocese of Artorus, to be shepherded by His Grace, Odo Bishop St. Emma. SECTION VI - VENERATION Through Our Apostolic Authority, and with the approval of a majority of the College of Cardinals, We venerate the following: VENERABLE FATHER WERT Made venerable for diligent service to the Mother Church for the entirety of their life, the unparalleled charity exhibited in the form of the single largest donation of books to the Mother Church, and their unbroken commitment to their vow of poverty. THE HOLY MOTHER CHURCH OF THE CANON Under GOD maintained by His Holiness Sixtus V THE COLLEGE OF CARDINALS ANTONIUS CARDINAL ARTORUS @Reckless Banzai Screamer Archdiocese of Artorus ARNAUD CARDINAL ALBAROSA @Sander Archdiocese of Albarosa JOSEF CARDINAL JORENUS @Pureimp10 Patriarchate of Jorenus MATTHIAS CARDINAL LOTHARIA @BuilderBagel Archdiocese of Lotharia THE CURIA ARNAUD CARDINAL ALBAROSA @Sander Vice-Chancellor of the Church of the Canon ANTONIUS CARDINAL ARTORUS @Reckless Banzai Screamer Prelate of the Clergy of the Church of the Canon JOSEF CARDINAL JORENUS @Pureimp10 Pontifical Secretary of the Church of the Canon ANTONIUS CARDINAL ARTORUS @Reckless Banzai Screamer Acting Ecclesiastical Auditor of the Church of the Canon STANISLAW BISHOP WESTERWALD @Werew0lf Pontifical Chamberlain of the Church of the Canon LORD NIKOLAI COLBORN @Dairsad Grand Inquisitor of the Holy Inquisition MONSIGNORS Msgr. Ottomar von Alstreim @Ramon Msgr. Ser Vladimir var Ruthern @Dyl CANONIST DIOCESE PATRIARCHATE OF JORENUS, THE HOLY SEE Encompassing the entirety of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, the Kingdom of Norland, and surrounding territories, to be shepherded by Patriarch Josef Cardinal Jorenus @Pureimp10 DIOCESE OF ANDRIKEV, encompassing all the lands east of the river Lahy, in Sede Vacante. DIOCESE OF WESTERWALD, encompassing all the lands west of the river Lahy, to be shepherded by Stanislaw Bishop Westerwald @Werew0lf ARCHDIOCESE OF ALBAROSA Encompassing the eastern region of Aevos, including the lands of the United Kingdom of Aaun, the Commonwealth of Petra, and the surrounding territories, to be shepherded by Archbishop Arnaud Cardinal Albarosa @Sander DIOCESE OF BURON, encompassing all the lands east of the Capital City of Whitespire, to be shepherded by Mikhael Bishop Buron @LightTheTrainer DIOCESE OF CITREA, encompassing all the lands west of Saint Daniel’s Crossing, to be shepherded by Callahan Bishop Citrea (@levy_spearman) DIOCESE OF GELIMAR, encompassing all the lands west of the Capital City of Whitespire, to be shepherded by Brandt Bishop Gelimar @MadOne ARCHDIOCESE OF ARTORUS Encompassing the central region of Aevos, including the lands of the Kingdom of Númendil, the Veletz League, and surrounding territories, to be shepherded by Archbishop Antonius Cardinal Artorus @Reckless Banzai Screamer DIOCESE OF AQUILA, encompassing the entirety of the Kingdom of Númendil, to be shepherded by Pious Bishop Aquila @Jameson_h DIOCESE OF ST. EMMA, encompassing the entirety of the League of Veletz, to be shepherded by Odo Bishop St. Emma @Borin ARCHDIOCESE OF LOTHARIA Encompassing the south-western region of Aevos, including the lands of the Kingdom of Balian and surrounding territories, to be shepherded by Archbishop Matthias Cardinal Lotharia @BuilderBagel DIOCESE OF TYRIA, encompassing the entirety of the Kingdom of Balian, in Sede Vacante. ☩DEO NON FORTUNA☩ BY GOD NOT LUCK

PONTIFICAL LETTER OF THE HIGH PONTIFF XYSTUS QUINTUS BEATUS NUNTIUS IN SEMITA HAPPY TIDINGS ON THE PATH HIS HOLINESS SIXTUS V, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD. "And so I have placed into your hearts the blessings of abundance: the virtuous wealth of the spirit. And as I have given to you this blessing of My Word, you shall also give unto your fellows." (Virtue 2:5-6) Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction. We write this letter to relay Our journey once more from Our stay in the Archdiocese of Albarosa last year this time. We were blessed with good company immediately when we arrived in the city square of Whitespire in the Kingdom of Aaun in the form of His Grace Bishop Michael, Prince Heinrich of Merryweather, his wife Princess Aleksandra and a remarkable golem that seemed to help the people any way it could. When the golem learned of who We were throughout the progression of the conversion it bestowed unto Us a diamond which We are most grateful and appreciative for and wish to let those who would be so kind as to inform it know that We put it to good use, gifting it to those less fortunate than Us. We also had the opportunity to meet a Canonist dwarf by the name of Ahti who had been missing for nearly three centuries and is a remnant of the Order of Saint Lucien following the Third Crusade. It was a great privilege to speak to someone with such first hand experience and to see that their faith still remains strong even after all their hardships and missing years. At the same time We were most fortunate to happen across Our humble scribe, Cunimund hal'Cingedoz. For those who are unaware, he has copied each of Our Pontifical Letters within a Saint’s day or two of publishing for better spreading amongst the faithful flock. He was a most welcoming and warm man who We could and cannot thank enough for all his hard work, even extending himself to copying manuscripts for Our libraries across Canondom. We have noticed he has made a petition to the Royal Diet in Aaun for more space to continue his work in a proper scriptorium. We cannot express enough how dutiful and hard working this man is. We are thankful to have him and his work ethic is nothing short of exceptional. He truly encapsulates how one might perfectly oppose themselves to slothfulness in accordance with the most virtuous path we all aspire to walk without fault. We were also delighted to bear witness to the most holy of ceremonies, the rite of matrimony between a loving pair, in this case between Sir Victor Halcourt and Dame Cécilia d'Amaury overseen by His Grace Bishop Callahan. It took place underneath a giant, forever autumn tree growing just outside of the Commonwealth of Petra which’s beauty cannot be understated and most assuredly is one of those God given places for Us to enjoy; a reminder of what the entirety of the Skies must look like for the virtuous. It brought to mind the Canticle of Charity, “I am the Lord GOD without peer. I created the metals of the earth, and the onyx and the alabaster, and placed within your groves the trees of incense and resin,”. We must thank the happy couple for permitting Us witness such a special occasion and for giving Us the opportunity to once more reflect on why We do what We do and what made Us pick this life in the first place. We must also show Our appreciation to the Bishop himself as well as Father Elim and the Deacon who accompanied them for it was them who invited Us on the husband and wife’s behalf. We wish you all the luck in this lush, Almighty given world of ours by His grace. Finally on Our stay in the fair heartlander Kingdom We were graced with the opportunity to witness and be toured around the site of Lemon Hill, a church holding operated jointly by Mother Lorina, Ser Morgan of Angren, and Bishop Callahan. It is truly a wonder to behold and a perfect example of how one of these communes might operate in conjunction with Our Holy Mother Church. The harmony between the two has brought many into the fold and encouraged a new generation of those devoted to the best that our faith and Church has to offer and We are most excited to see what greatness the place might produce. We would encourage any who have not spoken to members of Lemon Hill or seen it themselves to most definitely set some time aside to. Both the Reverend Mother and His Grace were incredibly helpful in providing information and suggesting ways in which We might approach the implementation of certain magics in accordance with the Scrolls and Canon Law as part of Our wider Pontifical Commission. Truly they have given new emphasis and holiness to the pastoral activity of Our Church and We pray they can continue to provide such for Our flock in all the years to come. In short, We cannot express the happiness and gratitude We feel over seeing our faith flourish without stop within the Archdiocese of Albarosa. The people welcomed us with open arms and inspired Us to continue to be better in serving them because We have seen what truly wonderful things they can accomplish when the faith is properly administered. We expect much of the same experience in Our stay that’s already begun within the Archdiocese of Lotharia this year. ☩DEO NON FORTUNA☩ BY GOD NOT LUCK

PONTIFICAL LETTER OF THE HIGH PONTIFF XYSTUS QUINTUS SATUS AD ITER LAETUM A JOYOUS START TO THE PATH HIS HOLINESS SIXTUS V, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD. "I am the Lord God without peer, and My Word is the holy word, and My path is the virtuous path, and all the blessings of the Virtue shall fall before the righteous who tread it." (Virtue 1:9) Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction. We write this letter to relay Our journey thus far since beginning on Our goal of serving every one of the faithful across all of Canondom in a manner befitting God’s vicar. We began our yearly visits within the Archdiocese of Artorus, spending the majority of Our time within the Capital of the Kingdom of Númendil, Númenost, colloquially known as the White City. We were privileged to speak with many of the populace and host Mass on the topic of Saint Edmond of Lachsin and his patronage, knights and hospitality - which We find representative of Our time amongst the devout people of Númendil for the honour and hospitality they showed Us. We were pleased to be able to relate the story of the reverent Saint to the lives of those living there and the positive response and insightful questions that We received, aside from the one relating to the use of crossbows that confused Us, were very affirming that We are on the right course of action and We thank and pray to the Almighty that Our continued journey proves as fruitful as its start. We encourage those who were present to remember the lessons and indeed who else may be reading this to do the same. Remember to live one's life on the virtuous path even when your peers may pressure you otherwise for that is when true piety is exemplified, it is proven when it is tested and you remain resolute in maintaining the path to the Skies. The knights of the realms can often become lost, the training and fighting taking its toll and diverting the mind but it is then that it is most important to remember to live and commit your life to the protection of the innocent, honour and display God given hospitality to those who need it. Let us not forget that it is of paramount importance to not only adhere to God’s teachings but also to guide and epitomise it to others who might also be brought onto the correct and true path. We had many pleasant and fruitful conversations with many there, including with the King, or Tar, himself that aided Us very much in understanding how we might approach the matter of magic and Templars within Our Pontifical Commission as well as understanding his humble origins and his piety in forging his faithful realm. We thank the King for his time and patience with Us. Among others We also took great delight in the petition for a blessing from Siegemaster Bedwyr who We were happy to have seen knighted soon after in Our visit. He gifted Us a key meant to be bestowed only to those entrusted with the defence of the great city; a poignant reminder of Our duty to the Canonist people. It is a gift We carry with Us and intend to leave to Our successors so they too might remember the righteous duty We have the God given and anointed pleasure of conducting. We must thank the people within the Archdiocese of Artorus for their kindness, openness and generosity they exhibited to Us on Our stay and will eternally be glad to return and hear from them whenever. We are currently on Our yearly stay within the next Archdiocese on Our itinerary, Albarosa, and expect very much the same God being willing. ☩DEO NON FORTUNA☩ BY GOD NOT LUCK

The Haeseni Stallion is sure to succeed.

BREVE CONSTITUTIONIS WRIT OF APPOINTMENT FOR THE PATRIARCHATE OF JORENUS AND THE DIOCESE OF BURON HIS HOLINESS SIXTUS V, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD. Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction. Long has the Patriarchate of Jorenus been vacant since Our enthronement but yet We are hopeful for the future and continued shepherding of the diocese by the current and up-and-coming members of the clergy. To most effectively administer the Patriarchate, We can no longer allow it to remain in Sede Vacante and have found a most reverent and capable replacement who by the will of God will be entrusted with this most sacred duty. It is through Our Apostolic Right, bestowed unto Us through the Laurel derived from the Exalted that We have chosen Father Josef @Pureimp10 to be consecrated and elevated to Patriarch of Jorenus. May he guide his flock diligently and soberly. The Pontificate wishes him the best in his newfound responsibility. The Archdiocese of Albarosa has in recent years boasted an incredible presence and number of the clergy. We thank God for such prosperity and efficient shepherding of the faithful and for the number of outstanding diligent and pious members of Our flock. Long has a Bishop to administer the Diocese of Buron been on Our mind and We now rest easy believing We have come to the most prudent answer. An effective member of the clergy and a well known and trusted figure for his God given kindness and devotion, We are assured that this appointment is a beneficial and well deserved one. It is through Our Apostolic Right, bestowed unto Us through the Laurel derived from the Exalted that We have chosen Father Michael @LightTheTrainer to be consecrated and elevated to Bishop of Buron. May he guide his flock diligently and soberly. The Pontificate wishes him the best in his newfound responsibility. ☩DEO NON FORTUNA☩ BY GOD NOT LUCK

PONTIFICAL LETTER OF THE HIGH PONTIFF XYSTUS QUINTUS PONTIFICEM PER OMNEM CANONATUS THE PONTIFF ACROSS ALL CANONDOM HIS HOLINESS SIXTUS V, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD. "He entrusted to them the Word of GOD, which were the Virtue and the Spirit, and charged them to instruct their brethren in the path of holiness." (Gospel 5:4) Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction. Long has there been unrest within Canondom and it has dominated much of Our time following the arrival on the bountiful continent of Aevos. Yet peace has prevailed and the heretics who would undermine the teachings of God and His Holy Mother Church will imminently be removed from all God fearing lands and brought to heel. With such We find it prudent to review how We might better serve the faithful all across Aevos and thus We have resolved to commit Ourself to extensive tours of each Archdiocese and pray to the Almighty for the strength and conviction to see it through for the betterment of all Our flock. To better spread the message of God and allow the people to seek Us out for whatever needs and petitions they may have, We pledge to rotate Our residency every year to each of the Archdiocese; those being the Holy See the Patriarchate of Jorenus, and the Archdiocese of Artorus, Albarosa, and Lotharia. On Our stays in each, We resolve to perform Mass, allow for confessionals overseen by Ourself, perform blessings and the handing out of alms to the hungry and devout in the streets as well as offering Our personal tutelage to the laity as well as any prospective or existing wards and acolytes of Our Holy Mother Church. We will began this undertaking immediately this same Saint's day and the itinerary for the Pontifical visits is as follows: I. Archdiocese of Artorus II. Archdiocese of Albarosa III. Archdiocese of Lotharia IV. The Holy See, the Patriarchate of Jorenus We would also remind the faithful of Our open Commission, ‘Magicus, Augurum et Incantatio’, into the source and use of most forms of magic. We encourage those who are knowledgeable in such or in their application within Canon Law to come forth and meet with Us while We are in your nations. ☩DEO NON FORTUNA☩ BY GOD NOT LUCK

PONTIFICAL COMMISSION OF THE HIGH PONTIFF XYSTUS QUINTUS MAGICUS, AUGURIUM ET INCANTATIO MAGIC, AUGURY AND ENCHANTMENTS HIS HOLINESS SIXTUS V, High Pontiff of the Church of the Canon, Archbishop of Visigia, Successor of the High Priesthood of the Church, Supreme Pontiff of the Church of True Faith, Keeper of the Canon, Missionary to Aeldin, High Servant to the Exalted's Testaments, Humble Servant of the Faithful and Vicar of GOD. "So I find that you seek impossible knowledge not for the good of your fellows, or precious wisdom, but in the desire of power. Indeed, this is an insatiable desire, for none can overcome the Lord." (Spirit 7:11-12) Most Beloved Brethren, Health and Pontifical Benediction. The use of magic was once held in contempt and mistrust at the warning of the Scroll of Spirit and for centuries this was misunderstood as the outright forbidding of all magic in Canondom, a misconception that has begun to be realised. While strides have been made in accommodating and permitting magic and the ethical use of it within the confines of God’s teachings and Canon Law, there remains a lack of proper ordinance and strict mandates on what is and is not sanctioned by the Church of the Canon. To create such requires the Curia and Us be properly informed in all aspects of all magic, augury, enchantments and anything else considered mystical or occult. If any have knowledge on any form of magic, including the coined ‘Voidal’ magic, ‘clericlism’, templarism, enchantments of any kind, golemancy, and others, We urge you to reach out by letter, book or arranging a meeting with Us or one of Our Cardinals, in particular His Eminence Anontius Cardinal Artorus (@shady here). Likewise We encourage the same for any learned laypeople or theologians who wish to make recommendations based on reasonable facts for how We might regulate or permit certain magics. We pray to God that he might bless Us and those who would aid Us in this endeavour with wisdom and intelligence for this great undertaking. We would have any who know or are themselves the leaders of magical orders to contact Us so We might arrange a time to meet and discuss the functioning, source and use of said magic. ☩DEO NON FORTUNA☩ BY GOD NOT LUCK