Principality of Savoy
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The Regency of Savoy
11th of Horen’s Calling, 1857
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
The time has come for a new steward to safeguard the people of Savoy with the disappearance of Prince Olivier being made official on his eternal Pilgrimage. It has been made aware that his calling has not been in statecraft, not in leading the people, but in reverent service of GOD. In the absence of His Serene Highness, the governance of the Southern Star must be attended to so the interests of the people may invested as GOD has willed it. As the Prince resumes his monastic calling in finality, there are few who can share and fulfill his vision to fruition.. Therefore, the following is the will of the chancellery;
I. Her Serene Highness, Catherine Johanna is elevated to Regent of Savoy posthaste. It is in her that the ability to act as Sovereign of Savoy, is granted.
II. Princess-regent of Savoy, Catherine Johanna, shall henceforth bear the distinction of Princess Emerita of Savoy. It is at her behest that she may distribute the titles and holdings of the Crown of Savoy, including but not limited to the Principality of Savoy, Duchy of Corazon, and so forth.
III. Princess-Regent of Savoy, Catherine Johanna, establishes a regency council that will henceforth include those in the offices of Chancellor, Vice-chancellor. The Bishop of San Luciano is invited into an advisory role upon the Regency Council without temporal duties.
IV. It is the will of the Crown that the Princess Regent, Catherine Johanna, and the regency council, may act unimpeded by the peerage and government and will operate the Principality of Savoy as she deems necessary.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, Catherine Johanna, Princess Regent of Savoy and Princess of Sutica, Duchess-regent of Corazon, Countess of San Luciano and Sarissa, Baroness of Brynnrose
HER EXCELLENCY, Vasileia Ekaterini Basrid, Lady Chancellor of Savoy
HIS EXCELLENCY, Matyas Jahan Basrid, Lord Vice Chancellor of Savoy, Khedive of Rudria
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ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 6TH OF SUN’S SMILE, 1847
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Savoyard Crown to recognize Our leal subject, Cyrus of House Mareno, as a great servant to the Principality, and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the authority vested upon Us by God and Our people, elevate Cyrus Mareno from Baron to Margrave of Myrine for his stalwart defense of our borders. It is our sincere wish that he pass this charge onto his legitimate heirs, along with all associated titles and honors. He is trusted with keeping law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasts, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
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ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 6TH OF SUN’S SMILE, 1847
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Savoyard Crown to recognize Our leal subject, Ernst of House Barclay, as a great servant to the Principality, and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the authority vested upon Us by God and Our people, elevate Ernst Barclay from Baron to Count of Freimark, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. We further grant him the title Baron of Madvon in acknowledgment of his proud heraldry. He is trusted with keeping law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasts, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
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PRINCELY LETTERS FOR THE BARONY OF LVINSK, 1843
ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 15TH OF AMBER’S COLD, 1843
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Crown of Savoy to recognize Our leal subject, Borys Jazloviecki, as a great servant to the Principality and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the prerogative vested upon Us by God and Our people, enfeoff Borys Jazloviecki with the Barony of Lvinsk, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. He is charged with preserving law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the reigning regnant, serving the Crown of Savoy duteously, and raising his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano, Protector of the High Elves
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PRINCELY LETTERS FOR THE BARONY OF CAER DER HODENN, 1840
ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 14TH OF SUN’S SMILE, 1840
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Crown of Savoy to recognize Our leal subject, Deimos van der Sainte-Blandine, as a great servant to the Principality and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the prerogative vested upon Us by God and Our people, enfeoff Deimos van der Sainte-Blandine with the Barony of Caer de Hodenn, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. He is charged with preserving law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the reigning regnant, serving the Crown of Savoy duteously, and raising his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano, Protector of the High Elves
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Spoiler
THE PRINCIPALITY OF SAVOY
THE EDICT OF RESPONSIBILITY
PART I: COUNCIL OF STATE
The Council of State holds a collective responsibility for the maintenance and administration of the Principality. Above all, the Council of State is tasked with the duty to aid and advise the Prince, and may be amended at will by him. The Council of State are bestowed the distinction of Lord for the duration of their tenure upon the council, and are to be addressed by the courtesy of Excellency.
The Council of State is chaired by the Lord Chancellor and may convene without the presence of the Prince. In prolonged absences, interregnum, or minority the Privy Council is invested with the Regency of the Principality.
I. The Lord Chancellor
The Principality’s foremost minister is invested by the Prince to direct the government and execute his will. The Lord Chancellor wields penultimate authority in the Principality and may convene the Privy Council. The Lord Chancellor is granted the Signet of St. Humbert of Bar and is charged with the custody of the Great Seal of the realm.
The current Lord Chancellor is Conrad de Falstaff (Beamon4)
II. The Lord Marshal
The Principality’s highest military appointment is the Lord Marshal, holding the highest rank achievable by a serving member of the Esheveurd Brigade. The Marshal commands absolute authority over the military second to the Prince, and is granted the authorities to maintain, regulate and administrate the standing army of the Principality. The Marshal is granted the Signet of St. Peter of Gaekrin.
The current Lord Marshal is Joseph Brandt (Caelria)
III. The Lord Exchequer
The finances of the Principality are invested into the Exchequer, who heads the Princely Treasury and is the chief accountant of the land’s income and expenditure. They also administer and oversee the crownlands of Savoy on behalf of the Prince. The Lord Exchequer is granted the Signet of St. Tobias.
The position is Ernst Barclay [GoodGuyMatt2k]
IV. The First Magistrate
As the Principality’s chief legal advisor, the First Magistrate is responsible for maintaining, regulating, and administering Princely law and overseeing the courts of the realm. They are also the head of the Council of Magistrates. The First Magistrate is granted the Signet of St. Daniel.
The current First Magistrate is Valentino Gradic [_Bueno_]
V. The Grand Knight
Fealty is the most pristine quality; it is loyalty that has made the character of many figures of renown. The eternal knights of Savoy are the reflection of its honor: the princely charge bestowed upon this title is an arduous path like no other. The Grand Knight of Savoy is responsible for organizing the training of the squires and knights, to reflect their stature as stalwart men of prestige. In his duties, the Grand Knight is charged with the survey of His Highness’s land. The Grand Knight is granted the Signet of St. Edmond of Lachsin.
The current Grand Knight is Ulrich von Alstreim [LithiumSedai]
V. The Grand Magus
The Grand Magus is the advisor to the Prince on all magical affairs. They also manage and oversee the activities of the greater wizardry of Savoy, ensuring no evil permeates these lands. They hold the Signet of St. Amyas.
The current Grand Magus is Istvan [Milenkhov]
PART II: COUNCIL OF MAGISTRATES
The Council of Magistrates of Savoy is composed of three magistrates. The three are selected individually accordingly every four years. The Magistrate appointed by the Prince of Savoy unilaterally shall don a purple shawl and shall henceforth be known as the First Magistrate for all intents and purposes. The Magistrate elected by the citizenry of San Luciano shall don a red shawl and shall henceforth be known as the Second Magistrate for all intents and purposes. The Magistrate elected by the City Assembly of San Luciano shall don a black shawl and shall henceforth be known as the Third Magistrate for all intents and purposes. These three magistrates will then individually compose the Council of Magistrates.
This edict delegates to the Magistrates of Savoy the following competencies;
I. The Council of Magistrates has been instructed to take the Prince of Savoy’s place in court for cases brought to court by common citizens within the Principality of Savoy.
II. The Council of Magistrates is hereby charged with ensuring any citizen of Savoy stands trial before sentencing.
III. The Council of Magistrates has been instructed with the enforcement of municipal and crown law, in the cases of noble, common, and natural law.
IV. The Council of Magistrates has been granted the power to mete out justice with respect to the municipal and crown law, in the cases of noble, common, and natural law.
V The Council of Magistrates has been tasked with reviewing the legality of municipal laws, ordinances, and statutes passed by the City Assembly of San Luciano.
VI. The Council of Magistrates has granted the authority to detain subjects for their own safety and the safety of others pending a trial or administering of justice.
VII. The Council of Magistrates has been granted the authority to act as an appellate court in the capacity as a unified body. All appellate rulings must be made by a majority of the Council.
VIII. All Magistrates must be certified as a rational practitioner of law by the Court of Savoy.
SIGNED,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano, Protector of the High Elves18 -
ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY,
10th of Tobias’ Bounty, 1840
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
By virtue of Our dynastic rule, we do hereby establish these following decrees:
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Those residing within the premises of Caer Cath shall function as an independent, private entity under His Serene Highness. In their autonomous function, they will answer only to His Serene Highness themselves;
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Said tower has been built for the operations of alchemists and sorcerers, who shall contain sole jurisdiction over their operations and apothecary.
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The inhabitants of Caer Cath shall function as a specialized task force in the objective of hunting, procuring, and eliminating dark and demonspawn, and necrotic beings that plague the Southern realm;
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His Serene Highness shall permit the use of alchemical and arcane operations, predicated on the condition that the associates within the premises of Caer Cath register all practitioners of these arts under a registered license, at a fee of 50 minae per annum;
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His Serene Highness duly invests the charge of operations orchestrated from the vicinity of Caer Cath upon a designated Grandmaster and Quartermaster with the role of producing weekly reports of studies, advances and doings within the tower for the duration of their service.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano, Protector of the High Elves
GRANDMASTER, István13 -
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ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 15TH OF SIGISMUND’S END, 1838
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Savoyard Crown to recognize Our leal subject, ANTONIUS VILAC, as a great servant to the Principality, and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the authority vested upon Us by God and Our people, acknowledges ANTONIUS VILAC as the rightful title holder of the PRINCIPALITY OF VÎLACHIA, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. He is trusted with keeping law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasty, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
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ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 5TH OF HARREN'S FOLLY, 1838
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
Following the request of the Prince of Sutica, CORWIN BARCLAY VON SAVOY, the title of PRINCE OF MERRYWEATHER is relinquished unto the LANDGRAVE OF ALSTREIM. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the authority vested upon Us by God and Our people, acknowledges the transfer of the PRINCEDOM OF MERRYWEATHER unto ULRICH LOTHAR VON ALSTREIM, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. He is trusted with keeping law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasty, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
HIS HIGHNESS, Corwin Barclay von Savoy, Prince of Sutica
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ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 9TH OF GODFREY'S TRIUMPH, 1838
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Savoyard Crown to recognize Our leal subject, ERNST BARCLAY, as a great servant to the Principality, and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the authority vested upon Us by God and Our people, enfeoff ERNST BARCLAY with the BARONY OF FREIMARK, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. He is trusted with keeping law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasts, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
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THE
LEX SAVOIA;
OR,
SAVOYARD LAW;
WHICH SHALL STAND AS,
The LICIT CODEX of the PRINCIPALITY of SAVOY, be such EDICTAL, CRIMINAL, or CIVIL in nature.
C O N T E N T S
B O O K I
Of Rights
B O O K II
Of Succession, Marriagehood; And of Custody
CHAP. I. ー Of Succession
CHAP. II. ー Of Marriagehood
CHAP. III. ー Of Custody
B O O K III
Of Criminals and Treason
CHAP. I. ー Of Criminals
CHAP. II. ー Of Treason
B O O K IV
Of Contracts, Feudal, and Social Obligations
CHAP. I. ー Of Contracts
CHAP. II. ー Of Feudal Obligations
CHAP. III. ー Of Social Obligations
Lex Savoia
OF THE PUBLICATION, EFFECT, AND APPLICATION OF THE CODEX
Article 1.
B O O K I.
OF RIGHTS
2.
The Right to Self Defence - Every man shall have the right to defend himself when he comes under attack, so long as it is unprovoked.
3.
The Right to Duel - Every man shall have the right to challenge their foe to a duel. If accepted, the pair may fight fairly, with at least one witness present. To interfere before the duel is yielded is forbidden.
4.
The Right to Trial - Every man shall have the right to a trial, when accused of crimes of a heinous nature.
5.
The Right to Trial by Combat - Every man shall have the right to forgo a proper trial, instead having a duel decide their guilt or innocence. Those who decide to embark on this do agree to fight their own battle, to the death.
B O O K II.
OF SUCCESSION, MARRIAGEHOOD; AND OF CUSTODY
CHAPTER I.
Of Succession
6.
A marriage shall be a union between a man and a woman of the same race, and shall be performed under the Canonist sacrament of marriage.
7.
If a man has many sons born in wedlock, he may not partition his estate amongst them without the consent of his heir.
8.
And on whether a man, having an heir, can give any part of his inheritance to a son born out of wedlock, it shall be established that he cannot; a son born out of wedlock may not receive gifts, sale, delivery or pledge of estate from a father.
9.
A man cannot disinherit his son and heir, and must reserve a portion of it as their inheritance, and thus cannot sell or donate the entirety of his estate; though if a man has no heir of his body, and that being male or female, then he may donate or sell the entirety of his estate.
10.
And if a man possesses hereditary and purchased land, he may donate or sell any part of the latter at his will.
11.
But if a man has many sons, all in equal standing to inherit, then he can give no greater amount to any one of his heirs; he may give, whilst he lives, that portion to which a son will inherit upon his death.
12.
If one of those who stand in the division of inheritance should die without children of their own, then that portion shall be divided between their siblings.
13.
If a son who has received seisin from his father dies in possession of such, then it shall be his next brother’s inheritance; on this principle land may never naturally ascend.
CHAPTER II.
Of Marriagehood
14.
And of heirs, when a man has none of his body and does not sell or donate his estate, it shall be inherited by those grandchildren of the man; afterwards the brother, or a sister, and their descendants; after this the uncle, or aunt, and their descendants.
15.
A third of a man's effects customarily shall be entitled to his wife should she out-live him; and though a woman may make a will as a man would, she may only do so with the authority of her husband if he is living.
16.
If a man holds military tenure upon his land, that is to say he owes his Lord a levy or any other military service, or that he shall be a knight and hold land in tenure, then only will his firstborn son and heir succeed to his inheritance; if he have a daughter only then this shall remain true.
17.
If a man holds socage tenure to his Lord, and that shall be defined as the tenure held without military service, such as a farming man, then the inheritance shall be equally divided amongst all his sons; without a son this shall remain true for his daughters.
18.
It shall be that heirs are bound to the debts of their father, and his father, and his father; it shall ascend, and obligations are to be inherited as if they were land.
CHAPTER III.
Of Custody
19.
It will be that an heir being under the age of fifteen cannot entirely execute the functions of a testament left by their ancestor; they shall be taken into the care of their Lord, and be exempt from their feudal duties until majority.
20.
And if they be born a Plebeian, an heir to their fathers business or coin, then they will not have attained full rights to it until they are able to count money.
B O O K III.
OF INDICTMENT, INDICTABLE OFFENCES; SUMMARY PUNISHMENT; HARMING MAJESTY; AND REGARDING TREASON
CHAPTER I.
Of Criminals
21.
A Man shall be considered criminal and be brought to trial if they:
22.
Conclude the life of another Man, outside of a legally recognized duel, skirmish, or in self defense;
23.
Attack another Man, outside of a legally recognized duel, skirmish, or in self-defense;
24.
Thieve the property of another Man;
25.
Spoil the property of another Man;
26.
Trespass onto any property that is not their own, whether through physical force, intimidation, stealth, or otherwise;
27.
Own another Man as a slave or indentured servant, unless that individual has been given such a status as punishment for a crime;
28.
Seize another Man and hold him involuntarily;
29.
Kill a whale for any reason;
30.
Lay with another Man’s spouse, or to lay with another when you are wed;
31.
Sell themselves in a deviant manner;
32.
Attempt using coin, force, blackmail, or any other method, to hire or convince any individual to carry out a crime in their stead.
33.
Attempt using coin, force, blackmail, or any other method, to bribe a member of His Serene Highness’ personal levy, palace staff, or Privy Council.
34.
Enter the Principality of Savoy, whether in transit or through commerce, bearing any amount of bread or potato without proper rations of pork, mutton, poultry, or beef.
35.
Act as an extrajudicial, wherein they attempt to deliver justice unto a criminal they may have helped apprehend. If a good samaritan has aided in the capture of a fugitive, they are expected to turn them over to His Serene Majesty’s men of the Esheveurd Brigade.
36.
If he attempts to import any fish, living or dead, that has not been caught within the boundaries of the Principality of Savoy, or does not carry a special permit of import from the High Justiciar.
37.
Speaks untruth to His Serene Highness, the Prince of Savoy, or expresses falsehoods under sworn Oath;
38.
Perform magick in any form.
39.
Perform other acts with hostile, malicious, or harmful intent.
CHAPTER II.
Of Treason
40.
Attempt harm against His Serene Highness, the Prince of Savoy or His wife, the Princess of Savoy;
41.
Attempt sabotage against the fortifications of Savoy;
42.
Attempt to aid the enemies of Savoy, through subterfuge or other means;
43.
Embezzle funds, arms, or armor from His Serene Highness’s vaults;
44.
Raise an army against His Serene Highness’ forces, the Esheveurd Brigade.
B O O K IV.
OF CONTRACTS, FEUDAL, and SOCIAL OBLIGATION
CHAPTER I.
Of Contracts
45.
A contract shall be binding by law, whether verbal or written.
46.
If there is dispute of such contracts, then they shall be settled by the High Justiciar in Court, whereupon his word shall be final.
47.
Contracts entered by force, or unwillingly, shall be considered null and void. Intoxication or bouts of hedonism are not an excuse for nullification, unless such intoxicants have been applied by another party.
CHAPTER II.
Of Feudal Obligation
48.
Each man, whether they be plebeian, serf, or patrician, are bound contractually to their estates responsibilities and status, as proclaimed by the Edict of Springtime.
49.
Each Patrician is expected and obligated to swear fealty to His Serene Highness, and all his successors.
CHAPTER III.
Of Social Obligation
50.
A citizen of Savoy must be a baptised Canonist.
51.
A citizen of Savoy must be law-abiding and good in nature.
52.
A citizen of Savoy, for the mutual defense and welfare of the Principality and themselves, must carry with them a weapon. Members of the fairer sex are exempt from such rule.
53.
A citizen of Savoy, with proper training or not, should be prepared to raise their weapons against enemies domestic and foreign. As His Serene Highness would wage war to defend his people, they too should be prepared to do so for him.
54.
Where a crime has been committed against Savoy that affects the Many, it is expected that the people act as Jury. They shall, under the moderation of the Lord Justiciar, determine guilt or innocence.
55.
Women must wear pious clothing in public spaces, covering their bodies from shoulder to wrist and ankle.
56.
Men must wear pious clothing in public spaces, covering their bodies from shoulder to wrist and ankle.
57.
If a man or woman does perform an act of heresy they shall repent before God and the Bishop of San Luciano, or his representative. If they refuse they shall, by the church, be punished as the Bishop of San Luciano sees fit.
58.
If a man or woman does perform minor heathenous acts they shall, by the Church, be lashed a number of times and made to wear a large wooden cross for a duration of time as penance.
59.
If a man or woman does perform major heathenous acts they shall, by the Church, be punished as the Bishop of San Luciano sees fit. If execution is to be delivered, the style of such beyond beheading must receive the approval from His Serene Highness or His heirs, or by a member of His privy council.
60.
A heathen shall be, by the Church, punished as the Bishop of San Luciano sees fit. If they are invited to the Principality of Savoy by His Serene Highness, such a person is entitled to protection from persecution.
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ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 11TH OF SUN'S SMILE, 1836
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Savoyard Crown to recognize Our leal subject, CESAR II DE RIVERA, as a great servant to the Principality, and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the authority vested upon Us by God and Our people, enfeoff CESAR II DE RIVERA with the BARONY OF RIVERA, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. He is trusted with keeping law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasts, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
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ISSUED AND CONFIRMED BY HIS SERENE HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF SAVOY, 11TH OF SUN'S SMILE, 1836
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
It pleases the Savoyard Crown to recognize Our leal subject, ULRICH LOTHAR VON ALSTREIM, as a great servant to the Principality, and a protector of the Princely House. As such, the Savoyard Crown, with the authority vested upon Us by God and Our people, enfeoff ULRICH LOTHAR VON ALSTREIM with the LANDGRAVIATE OF ALSTREIM, to hold and pass onto his legitimate heirs. He is trusted with keeping law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasts, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
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THE PRINCIPALITY OF SAVOY
“And I am the Lord GOD without peer, and My order is the holy order, and My law is the virtuous law, and all the blessings of the Virtue shall serve the righteous king and servant alike.” (Virtue 6:9).
THE SETTLING OF SAN LUCIANO
By Alexandre III d’Aryn
WE, who stake new lands for the realm of men, extend our hand to those displaced, so that they may find themselves again.
WE band of brothers, endowed by our birthright, do proclaim that the gilded age of yore shall come again.
WE, who with fervour in our hearts, declare ‘pon this Springtime our Principality Savoy from this day till the ending of the world.
TABLE I: THE SPRINGTIME EDICT
WE, who stake new lands for the realm of men, extend our hand to those displaced, so that they may find themselves again.
WE band of brothers, endowed by our birthright, do proclaim that the gilded age of yore shall come again.
WE, who with fervour in our hearts, declare ‘pon this Springtime our Principality Savoy from this day till the ending of the world.
THE PRINCE
His Serene Highness OLIVIER RENAULT of the House Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy and Duke of Corazon.
Following his service in the 10th Nordling War, His Serene Highness withdrew to the Southern Frontier to stake his own land. Finding little by way of arable land, he was invited into the halls of Johanna, Queen of the Sutican Commonwealth. It was there that Olivier accepted an offer of vassalisation, and was granted a majestic estate in the Heartlands of the South.
The Principality of Savoy follows an absolutist government. It is ruled by the Prince and governed by him alongside a Privy Council, and in the same vein will always hold ultimate authority within the territory. The Principality follows a lateral succession whereby the Prince may appoint any heir of his blood .
TABLE II: THE 1ST PRIVY COUNCIL
The Privy Council holds a collective responsibility for the maintenance and administration of the Principality. Above all, the Privy Council is tasked with the duty to aid and advise the Prince, and may be amended at will by him. The Privy Councillors are bestowed the distinction of Lord for the duration of their tenure upon the council, and are to be addressed by the courtesy of Excellency.
The Privy Council is chaired by the Lord Chancellor and may convene without the presence of the Prince. In prolonged absences, interregnum, or minority the Privy Council is invested with the Regency of the Principality.
I. The Lord Chancellor
The Principality’s foremost minister is invested by the Prince to direct the government and execute his will. The Lord Chancellor wields penultimate authority in the Principality and may convene the Privy Council. The Lord Chancellor is granted the Signet of St. Humbert of Bar and is charged with the custody of the Great Seal of the realm.
The current Lord Chancellor is William Alstion [Caranthir_]
II. The Vicegerent
The Principality’s tertiary authority is the Viceregent, seconding the Lord Chancellor. They do not possess any specific portfolio, and their main duty is to assist the Princely Chancellery in all its efforts. The Vicegerent is granted the Signet of St. Lucien of Ulmsbottom.
The current Vicegerent is Constanzo d’Anpalais [Cobbler]
III. The Lord Marshal
The Principality’s highest military appointment is the Lord Marshal, holding the highest rank achievable by a serving member of the Esheveurd Brigade. The Marshal commands absolute authority over the military second to the Prince, and is granted the authorities to maintain, regulate and administrate the standing army of the Principality. The Marshal is granted the Signet of St. Peter of Gaekrin.
The current Lord Marshal is Alexandre d’Aryn [Chennster]
IV. The Lord Scrivener
The Principality’s chief notary official is the Lord Scrivener. The Lord Scrivener is entrusted with the drafting of the Prince’s personal edicts alongside overseeing the bureaucratic motions of governmental legislation regarding the publishing and keeping of documents. The Scrivener is granted the Signet of St. Adrian of Leuvaarden and is charged with the custody of the Privy Seal of the Prince.
The current Lord Scrivener is Darius Basrid. [egirlenemy99]
V. The Lord Commissioner
The Principality’s foremost diplomatic officer, the Lord Commissioner is entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining the external diplomatic relations of the Principality, including the establishment of diplomatic offices, and conducting foreign affairs on behalf and in the stead of the Prince. The Commissioner is granted the Signet of St. Johannes.
The current Lord Commissioner is Lomiei [Lomiei_]
VI. The Lord Steward
The Stewardry of the Principality is delegated to the Steward, who shall have full responsibility to maintain, regulate, and administrate residential and commercial properties. The office shall be divested with the command over the Principality’s ledgers. The Steward is granted the Signet of St. Catherine of Felsen.
The current Steward is Selvia de Orsella [KiiwiFruiit]
VII. The Lord Exchequer
The finances of the Principality are invested into the Exchequer, who heads the Princely Treasury and is the chief accountant of the land’s income and expenditure. The Lord Exchequer is granted the Signet of St. Tobias.
The position is Ernst Barclay [GoodGuyMatt2k]
VIII. The High Justiciar
As the Principality’s chief legal advisor, the High Justicar is responsible for maintaining, regulating, and administering Princely law and overseeing the courts of the realm. The High Justiciar is granted the Signet of St. Daniel.
The current High Justiciar is Peter Margaret Rothesay [DelaneyG]
IX. The Princely Coroner
The Principality’s foremost intelligence services are in the responsibility of the Princely Coroner. They shall be responsible for military, domestic, and foreign intelligence. They shall undertake analyses for the operation of government. The Princely Coroner is granted the Signet of St. Richard of Adrianople.
The current Princely Coroner is Mattis de Brellad [Malaise_]
X. The Grand Knight
Fealty is the most pristine quality; it is loyalty that has made the character of many figures of renown. The eternal knights of Savoy are the reflection of its honor: the princely charge bestowed upon this title is an arduous path like no other. The Grand Knight of Savoy is responsible for organizing the training of the squires and knights, to reflect their stature as stalwart men of prestige. In his duties, the Grand Knight is charged with the survey of His Highness’s land. The Grand Knight is granted the Signet of St. Edmond of Lachsin.
The current Grand Knight is Ulrich von Alstreim [LithiumSedai]
TABLE III: THE GRAND ASSEMBLY OF SAN LUCIANO
Whereas dynasties of particular note settle within the Principality, there is a need for a medium to put forth their views on the incremental progress of the Principality.
I. There shall be a Grand Assembly of San Luciano, invested with the responsibility to guide policy for the entirety of the Principality.
II. The Grand Assembly shall be formed primarily of the paterfamilias of each Patrician dynasty; and the Plebeians shall have the right to elect a Seigneur to sit in the Assembly.
III. The High Justiciar will convene the Assembly and chair it when it is in session.
IV. The Grand Assembly must elect a Vizier, who is invested with the responsibility to upkeep public morality, guide and protect the customs of the people, and protect the public work of the Principality.
TABLE IV: THE THREE ESTATES
THE PATRICIANS
The Patrician, by virtue of high office and birth, are the highest of the classes in the realm. Their status is hereditary, and the paterfamilias act as the head of the household. They have a duty to uphold and preserve Savoy’s traditions and customs through service to their liege, and dedication to their polity.
Patrician families are expected to contribute to His Serene Highness’ prosperity through socage or military tenure in His Serene Highness’ personal levy.
All Patricians have the inviolable right to set a duel upon those of their class, and them of the Plebeian classes; a Plebeian may do the same of their class, but not of those above him.
The House of ALSTION
The House of ALSTREIM
The House of D’ANPALAIS
The House ASHFORD D’ARYN
The House ASHFORD DE FALSTAFF
The House of BARCLAY
The House of BASRID
The House de BRELLAD
The House of HELANE
The House de ORSELLA
The House of ROTHESAY
The House DI SAROLA
THE PLEBEIANS
The Plebeian class is characterised by their libertas. That is, they are free men, but are distinguished from the Patrician's through virtue of being commoners.
Plebeians broadly reside within the metropolis of San Luciano. Manufacturers, craftsmen and artisans by trade, their contribution to the Principality is immeasurable.
The Plebeians are represented by the Seigneur of Savoy, a person of their class who they elect to sit in the Assembly, and who has a hand in city administration. Whilst the Plebeians enjoy libertas, some fields of high office are promised to the Patrician.
The many Plebeians of Savoy serve the Patrician through a transaction-based system of clientele. In exchange for numerous services, including the creation or resourcing of goods, Plebeians are secured by their patron in money, protection, or favours.
THE SERFS
The serf class is the lowest of the estates. They include farmers, labourers, and servants. Serfs are obliged to their lord through a complex system of socage or military tenure.
Although being the primary labour force of the Principality, serfs have limited participation in government due to the existing contract with their liege lord.
While serfs may vote in the election of the Seigneur, this is granted by city officials begrudgingly, and is only given to the paterfamilias of each serf household.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Olivier Renault Ashford de Savoie, Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano
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- Popular Post
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A Setting Sun
My time has come, but the time of Ashford is just beginning.
“I am not ashamed.” The words, spoken without cause, rasped out of the cracked and parched lips of a husk of a man - his ever pale eyes now sunken orbs within gaunt sockets. The prone figure weakly raised a hand, hand scratching for the circlet that lay by his bedside. The brittle nails of his bony hand closed around the crown, tugging it from the side and onto his wheezing chest.
“My father was a mad-man.” He managed another puff of breath, before his trembling voice resonated through his empty bedchambers once more. “H-he told me..” Another cough, this one from the chest, loose spittle flung across the room as his morose tone cracked and broke.
He tugged himself upwards with a haggard sigh, gaze shifting over the cluttered contents of a King’s chambers before resting on the helm that faced him, one made famous through all lands as the helm of a great king, one who united Man and Elf under one banner, whom defeated the dwarves and restored his Kingdom to greatness.
With a surprising strength for a man on the cusp of death he tugged himself to his own feet, steps steady as he hobbled to the helmet - hands lifting the iron plate armour closer to him as he set about, for once unaided, strapping on the iconic armour that had marked the figure out as Olivier, grandson of Lucien I Ashford, dynast of the House Ashford de Savoie.
The sun, already low in the sky, had dipped beneath the horizon by the time he had finished in his task, struggling to his feet beneath the cumbersome weight of the full suit; gaze twisting to look over the raging storms battering the coastline of the grand city he had built. Once again he licked his dry lips, "He told me that it is in moments of decision that one's destiny is shaped."
The waves crashed forebodingly against the rocks cresting the shoreline of the palace, and the frail figure strode with a prideful step towards the sea. Coming to a halt before the raging waters ahead, his characteristic greathelm slick and glistening in the downpour. A memory crossed the King’s mind as he contemplated the churning waves- a conversation held the day prior, with a man he had long regarded as closer than kin.
The dim glow of the candles lining his study flickered with a pale glow, illuminating the grizzled combatant before him. The man’s pale eyes studied Olivier’s intently, ever-watchful. “A Savoyard century - that is what I promise you,” He vowed solemnly.
The aged monarch’s parched lips took on the form of a smile, nodding wearily as he continued on, “So be it. The tempest has evanesced and the sun yet sets. You must lead our kinfolk through this time of peril - this time of dark, miserable gloaming.”
“I made you a promise, did I not? The Ashford sun will reign supreme. None shall escape it. Our people will bask in its warmth; our enemies will be burnt by its rays; and those of our dynasty will be forever illuminated by its glowing luminescence.”
The recollection of their exchange stirred the King from his brief reverie, and once more the helmet pivoted to regard the raging waves that crested the shoreline a scant few paces from where he stood. Oren’s renown would persist with the successor he had chosen; he was sure of it. With renewed vigor, the man paced forth slowly and planted an ironclad boot in the ground, heel crunching into the loose shingle underfoot.
He took another step, seawater invading his armored boots as the pace of his footfalls increased, a cresting wave striking his plated chest - yet he did not halt. His pale blue eyes bored out of the helmet, focused upon some destination unknown, as the squall raged around him - a clap of thunder booming overhead in the turbulent skies.
Water now enveloped his arms, the incessant swinging slowed along with his pace, water pushing down upon the armour as his still-determined eyes gazed at a surging wave that was quickly approaching. The daunting swell threatened to engulf the monarch, but he did not falter in his pace, instead bearing into it with a vehement final stride. The man who had risen from the son of a lunatic to King, who had subjected the dwed to his iron fist and driven them from the northern highlands, disappeared - never to be seen again.
A man who had through tact and guile rather than an iron blade subjugated the people of Malin beneath his banner - who had seen the sun of Ashford set over Athera just as it rose over Vailor. A King who had taken a realm newly-forged and tempered it for his heir.
The wave broke, the sun set, the king was lost.
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Submission to High Pontiff Daniel II, 1519
We, the Crown of the true and legitimate Oren, do greet thee with great humility as We welcome thee to the Chair of Saint Lucien, and hope that your rule as High Pontiff will be just and prosperous, making not the mistakes of your distant predecessors, Pius II and Paul III, instead emulating the goodly and benevolent nature of St. Lucien I, who We all see as a figure of inspiration.
We, the Crown, hereby make several such humble yet official requests of the Holy Person, in the hopes that He will do Us the service of our accommodation as a gesture of goodwill and respect towards Our Crown.
We, the Crown, hereby request the creation of the Diocese of Metz, consisting of the hamlet of Maecht, the fortress of Dour Watch and the town of Metz, which shall serve as an estate in temporal fief to the Baron of Dour Watch, Titus de Sola. A map of said diocese is provided as follows:
We, the Crown, hereby request that Our present servant Father Renuald of Metz, a priest ordained by the Bishop of Felsen, Humbert de Bar, be elevated to the Diocese of Metz post-haste.
We, the Crown, also request that Our present servant Father Renuald of Metz be elevated to the Pentarchy post-haste, as a devout servant of Our Creator with unparalleled and supple theological knowledge among the Clergy. While We implore thee, Holy Father, to take up Our request with all the quickness and decision that is required of a servant of God, We say this with as much humility as We possess in such inauspicious circumstances:
We shall judge a failure to meet these requests severely and respond this in Our communication with the Holy Person through curt yet resonant words.
With our deepest and most sincere regards,
The Crown of Oren,
His Majesty, King Olivier the First of His Name,
His Excellency, Guy de Bar, Royal Chancellor of Oren
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By Royal Decree, from His Majesty King Olivier de Savoie, an immediate and indefinite cessation of hostilities between the House of Vladov and the House de Sola is hereby in effect.
____________________________________________________________________________
The recent feud sparked between House Vladov and House de Sola has boiled over into the countryside of the kingdom. It is at the will of His Majesty, to avoid a lawless state filled with brigands from both sides, that the conflict is halted until an official response to the Ultimatum of Redmark is issued. Any aggressors that would seek to break this decree shall be duly prosecuted by the Crown and levied a determined fee. We give the assurance that a response to the Ultimatum of Redmark will be given in a timely manner befitting the King’s royal duties.
____________________________________________________________________________
Signed,
His Majesty, King Olivier de Savoie
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By decree of His Majesty, King Olivier de Savoie, the office of Viceroy has hereby been established. The position, along with a seat on the Privy Council, grants the Viceroy authority over all the provinces in the Reformed Kingdom of Oren, and grants these following duties:
1. The responsibility, entrusted by the King, to act as his chief liaison and representative in all provincial matters.
2. The right to govern the provinces in a manner that best reflects the well-being of the Kingdom.
3. The duty to ensure a loyal and law-abiding populace within the governed provinces.
4. The responsibility to represent all the provinces during crucial matters of state.
5. The responsibility to represent all the provinces in any foreign affair or domestic affair.
Reaffirming these duties, the Viceroy will have authority over the Province of Laurehlin, the Protectorate of Haelun’or, and the Ancillary of Ker’nor for an indefinite period. The office of the Viceroy is to be held by Lord Helton Chivay.
Signed,
His Majesty, King Olivier de Savoie
His Excellency, Viceroy Helton Chivay
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Edicts of Martial Law
Issued on the 11th of Snow's Maiden, 1510
By the order of His Excellency, Lord Marshal Vasili Vanir, the provincial state of Haelun’or has fallen under Martial Law, to be governed by Lord Adrian de Bar. In such times as these, it is the right of the authorities to issue edicts pertaining to the occupation of the territories they see over. Below, citizens may find the guidelines which they are expected to obey, until such a time as the anarchist plotters seeking to upend the peaceful order of things are brought to justice.
See the notices pinned below for further information in regards to expected procedure within the Silver City.
https://www.lordofthecraft.net/topic/127845-effectual-laws-fugitive-list-and-personnel-duties/
The citizens of Haelun'or are thanked for their perseverance against the tyranny of anarchy in these times, and are encouraged to continue to comply with authorities in their search for these rogue individuals.
Penned in the office of the General Inspector, Paul, 10th of Snow's Maiden, 1510.
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Declaration of Martial Law
Issued and confirmed by His Majesty, King Olivier of House AshfordIn times of peace and prosperity, there always lies in waiting the most sinister of beings; those who would seek to upset the balance of power, and plunge our noble Realm into strife. Thus it was that on the 11th of the Deep Cold, 1509, that the vile insurgents Avern’Dionne, Crumena Ilwindior, and Damasus Visaj attempted to tilt our Kingdom into the flames of conflict, in their despicable attempt to overthrow the rightful government of Haelun’or, and, in its place, institute a mad regime of violent disorder. In due course, the forces of His Majesty, so heroically led by Guy de Bar and Leufroy de Savoie, subdued this loathsome rebellion, returning peace and the wise governance of the realm to Haelun’or. Due to the reprehensible actions of these anarchist, and the potential danger that they may still pose, His Excellency, Lord Marshal Vasili Vanir, has ordered the province of Haelun’or to adhere to Martial Law, effective immediately, under the Governance of Adrian de Bar. All subjects of the Crown in Haelun’or and her lands are expected to comply whole heartedly with rightful government administrators for their own safety, and to report any disingenuous or radical behavior to the authorities immediately.
Signed,
Lord Marshal Vasili Vanir
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Inside the Royal Palace at Petrus, the Privy Council of Oren meets with King Olivier, representatives from all corners of the realm coming together. Around the table sit the King, and all major nobles of the realm, with a scribe to record the historic event. Their meeting is short and to the point, and wrapped up with the His Majesty’s words.“It is done, then. The Beginning of the End has started. The stout pups have bit the wolf’s tail too many times.”Around the table, heads nod in agreement, and notices are sent to every major holdfast in the Realm.To the Lords and Soldiers of Oren;Pick up your shields and raise your spears - we march to end the war.
WARCLAIMType of Battle:ConquestTime & Date:5PM EST, 4th of April (Negotiable)Attacking Forces:The Kingdom of Oren + AlliesDefending Forces:The Grand Kingdom of Urguan + AlliesLocation and Boundaries:Kal’KaraadKal’Karaad and immediate surroundingsTerms of Victory:Victory for attacking team:If the defenders are all killed or driven out of the battle area, or bested to such an extent that a realistic defense is no longer viable (IE - Defenders huddle 500 feet underground, victory is declared, for they could not realistically defend the actual city, which would simply fall into attacking hands.)Victory for the defending team:If the attackers are all killed or driven out of the battle area.Rewards:Victory for the attackers means ownership of the Kal’Karaad plot will be transferred to the Kingdom of Oren, and used as they please.Victory for the defenders means the region may not be war claimed for a time based off the suggestions of non affiliated Game Moderators with the consent of both sides.Rules:Server rulesNo team killingNo fake statusesNo returning to battleSiege weapons enabledNo metagamingNo underground fort modifications prior to this post. All additional fortifications must be on ground level or above.No moving items out of the city31 -
The position of Papal Legate has hereby been incorporated into the Privy Council of the Reformed Kingdom of Oren, and the scholarly theologian, Branaford of Cavan is chosen to fill it. Furthermore, Lord Jan de Savoie has been appointed Lord Justiciar in honor of his legislative abilities and just demeanor.
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The Bonds that Bind Us
A Foreword from the Royal Chancery
Oren is forged from war. This be true now, and will be every day onwards.
Like a sword, armour, or a tool, only under heat and stress were our bonds made strong, and did our shape take form. I watched as Oren was pounded, not so much to crush it out of existence, but enough to shape it into a powerful and united nation; this process began with the opening of the canonist war.
Today, we present to you, dear citizens of Oren, one of the turning points in humanity's history. It is told from the perspective of a soldier, representing the brave Orenic men who shed their blood daily for stability and prosperity in our nation.
A Soldier’s Account of the ‘Battle for Milvian Bridge’
Not a detail of the battle has escaped me. It was the year 1485, only two years after Petrus was captured by those wretched supporters of the King of Renatus. We stood not there though; we held true somewhere else, and that was at the end of the Milvian Bridge.
I had been in service to Oren for nearly a decade before that day. I had clashed against Dwarves, Elves, Orcs, even my fellow Men, and in so proving my mettle, I had climbed my way to the rank of Decurion in the Order of Saint Amyas. I recruited men, trained them, and then led a band of crusaders into battle. My life was built around obedience and respecting my superiors … but this was the first time I served under a commander as youthful as Guy de Bar.
The Ashford boy’s face was bald when he first ascended to the helm of our Order in Lord Adrian’s stead, but I thought nothing of it; he was fervent and robust, being quick to hear our grievances and engage in conversation with us. Though at times, I did admittedly find it difficult - clashing with him over a variety of issues, I found my place, more often than not, as his subordinate. I had my experience, but Lord Guy - he had his damned foresight. His eyes would dart across the men, and soon orders would be barked in our direction. He drilled us hard, and expected nothing less than complete discipline and obedience amongst his order-men.
In one instance, a man was caught stealing bread as we marched to do battle against an Urguanian clan. Lord de Bar had witnessed this, and had him in shackles, bellowing with rage about how vile the man was to rob the honest folks of Leuvaarden and breach our Order’s tenants. He had him exiled him from the city, not even unbinding the man as he walked out onto the road alone. I was shocked at the severity of Lord Guy’s punishment, but admired the results, for never again was Leuvaarden challenged by thieves or miscreants.
It took our solemn parade less than a day to reach the Orenian encampment on the Akovian border. We marched, bearing grim faces and bent double as we looked to the near naked trees on either side of the road. They, to me, looked like sad giants, falling apart, and doing away with what they had. It was hard not to think of it as an ill omen, and as the crusaders around me walked half asleep, I could not help but feel a twinge of fear.
Dread filled my heart and mind as we moved closer to the bridge, and my faith even began to waver. It is not that I didn’t practice what I preached, but the anxiety and fear we felt in understanding how numerous our foes were was unbearable. It was not just heretics that we were to defeat, but pagans and nonhumans; the Waldenians we battled nearly matched our numbers alone, but a number of Dwarves dispatched by Urguan, Orcs lent from the Rex, and even numerous Wood Elven bowmen had opted to joining these men. Hope began to diminish for us, and a feeling of doom hung over our sullen march as we neared the battleground. Foreign kingdoms of these lesser races were quick to band together against the Canonists, and I gave much thought as to why we had so few allies.
Following our arrival at the encampment, I realized we were the last reinforcements expected. The men there bore gaunt expressions and sullen eyes, and only at sight of the Knights Lorraine in their ivory tabards did they seem to come to life. Shame had been brought to the canonist cause through many unsuccessful skirmishes, and though their numbers remained respectable, the rabble before us were pitifully over encumbered with the burden of war. Only now did I find myself doubting our commander, Guy de Bar.
The Grand Master’s calculating, steely gaze looked not at us, but over the river; he watched the innumerable pikes and billhooks of the gathering pagan forces raise as they amalgamated into a rough mass. Did he not see their superior numbers well enough? Could he not just order us to retreat to a redoubt, and better battle these heretics from safety? I knew not, but I worried greatly, and my stomach knotted tightly into a fist as I readied my blade for what I knew was to be the deciding battle of the faiths.
Soon enough, Grand Master Guy de Bar, and the leader of Woldzimir’s forces, the tigress Emma Vladov, rode side by side, discussing their plan for the battle. A well-drilled line began to form at our end of the bridge, deterring those that may have found it wise to begin skirmishes on the bridge early. This wall of shields, at the very least, hid the quivering shoulders of our men, as the fatigued soldiers looked about, hoping to be relieved. Tense, perturbed whispers were exchanged between the fretful initiates, and despite my own concerns, I managed to joke about the height of the stouts, and the brutish nature of these Waldenians. The men laughed, and joined with me in mocking their forces, pointing out that at this distance, it looked as if the Orcs were just shrubs that the Wood Elves were mistakenly protecting, but doom changed the tone of our voices and the sound of our laughter. We found it hard to be assured victory.
The plan, as dictated by Grand Master de Bar, was not to hold our ground, but to storm theirs, as we prepared to face off against this sea of foes. I could hardly process the situation we were in when I was told to form up with the other men at the bridge. My knees buckling, I muttered a silent prayer as I stood shoulder-to-shoulder amidst my comrades. No doubt to soothe our dismal moods, Guy de Bar strode into our ranks and passed around a canteen of the finest vintage he could afford us, something no man, no matter how resolute, could bring himself to refuse. We began to merrily dream up the loot we’d be raiding from the enemy encampment over the bottle, and let some of the anxiety wash down to become a fire in our bellies. Though men brought with them brews from home, nothing matched the fine taste of the wines Grand Master de Bar handed to us.
We held our formation the best we could, but I could not help but feel great distress from it: Our allies slouched with exhaustion, and many of the fresher-faced recruits wavered at the chilling warhorns of our opposition. Facing the opening of the bridge, the slits of my helm captured the consolidation of our enemies, and my gauntlet-clad hands were lucky to be gripping only the finest Savoyard timber, as anything of poorer strength would have exploded in my grasp as I heard the blaring war cries of the Uruk berserkers across the bridge. Several arrows whistled by our weak formation, some landing at our feet with dull thuds. I felt as hopeless as my comrades I drew in air anxiously, and we retreated several paces as more arrows struck the ground around us.
Suddenly, I felt a consoling hand grasp my pauldron firmly. Whirling around, I realized that before me was our Grand Master, Guy de Bar. For a moment, I felt my dread wane as I looked upon his face, not a frown or a wild eyed expression, but his calming, stern smile. The young Grand Master addressed me momentarily with a composed, heartening nod, before moving to hail the order-men around me. Pacing around our line with an encouraging gaze, Guy spoke a few quiet words to us personally.”I would expect no less than what you have been trained to do on this day, my friends. Let us show God that we truly deserve His favor!” Mounting his horse, Guy turned to face our entire force before raising his glimmering blade into the air.
“Death is nothing, my brothers; but to live defeated and inglorious is to die daily. Do not fear death. Go, sons of Horen, go forth! Charge!”
The Grand Master brought down his sword, gritting his teeth in a resolute snarl. I relayed the order to charge, and like a dam broken, our inspired forces flooded across the bridge towards our enemies. The thundering sound of our boots reporting on the stone promenade only served to further inspire our men, and with renewed zeal we hurled battle cries at the top of our lungs. I hefted my shield over my head, and cursed as another volley of arrows hissed towards us. A new sound was heard over the din of our charge; the wails of wounded soldiers as they fell to wood elven sharpshooters. A man to the right of me fell with a screech of agony, and a pair of bloodied order-men tumbled aside from our rush; but the remainder of our men charged forth, all doubts alleviated by the Grand Master’s passionate drive forward.
Contact with the Waldenian foe came quickly, and as steel crashed against steel I found myself caught in the midst of the hellish engagement. We slapped up against our adversaries’ lines with enough force to scatter them, but I was still unsure as to whether or not we possessed the manpower and tenacity to drive them back. As I sighted Guy de Bar atop his horse amidst the clamor, bouting with several enemy infantrymen, I found myself wondering if we were doomed to be overrun and massacred - or if we truly were driving the heretical fools back.
I jostled through the battle, eager to assist the Grand Master while he fended off a battalion of Waldenians. Many of the men surrounding me did not advance like I did; too caught up in their own quest for glory, they slashed through the ranks of our enemies blindly. I shouldered past countless figures locked in combat, and as I approached Guy de Bar, I watched as his horse was speared and crumpled from under him. Rushing to my liege’s side as he deftly pulled himself out of the fallen beast’s stirrup, I found myself with a newfound respect for the Grand Master’s martial ability, and I then stood by his side in a frantic melee against a flurry of enemies.
As the battle raged on, and my bloodied sword grew heavy in my fatigued arms, I began to notice the Dwarven lines faltering. I felt an adrenal surge as I fought on, rallying those around me to press forward. The Waldenians were repelled from the end of the bridge, and our perimeter began to broaden. Soon, I found myself at the widening front, but I stopped not to look at my foe; I knew where they stood, and swung my sword heavily at their empty skulls.
The fear on the visages of our enemies was apparent as we began to break their lines, and as our forces slammed hard against theirs, they began to stumble and flounder over one another. As gaps in their lines formed, we instantly moved to fill them, and eventually the holes in the Waldenian’s formations were shattered and they were struck down in droves.
How many men I had slain by the battle’s denouement, I knew not, but I found great difficulty in managing a swing without cleaving through a wavering enemy. The remaining Waldenians were pressed so tight in their defensive formation that they could not lift their shields to defend themselves, and with shouts of determination, we cut them down where they stood. The men around me reveled in the glorious slaughter of our enemies, and I soon found myself rejoicing with them as I cut down foe after foe.
When the Orcish horns sounded a retreat amongst the broken lines of our opposing army, we found ourselves in hot pursuit of frantically escaping enemies. Throwing down their arms in desperation, some men cowered rather than join their routing comrades; these cravens were butchered despite their cries for mercy, for we were told to show no pity for those choosing to surrender.
As the day drew to a close, and we found ourselves mopping up the remaining pockets of opposition, the men cheered our Grand Master’s name in marvel of his leadership in the face of such adversity. I stood by Guy’s side as he addressed the crusaders after the battle, and despite our massively inferior numbers, we suffered surprisingly few casualties. In contempt of the countless Waldenian and nonhuman dead littering the bridge, I herded back nearly ten captives to our encampment, where we had amassed a significant group of prisoners.
As I marched past the lines of kneeling prisoners though, they looked almost dumbfounded with grief and shocked at their hopeless situation. These men fought, but why did they fight? I pitied them greatly as they looked about with red, fearful eyes and gaunt, grime-streaked faces, having never realised how mislead they were, and what a poor spiritual guide they chose. Despite this, it was hard for me not to strike the poor fools where they knelt. How one could so ignorant is beyond me, but perhaps as heretics and pagans, they had much more experience in being lost and dragged into things they truly did not understand. The men who turned from the true word of God were given a second chance to adhere to his teachings again, to be shown mercy; but still many refused stubbornly and were put to death. I failed to feel even a tinge of remorse as their heads rolled; they brought this war on, and were to suffer the full wrath of God’s servants.
The blows and beatings Oren took prior to the battle of The Milvian Bridge shaped her, and made her strong. Cooled was the blade that is Oren, as it was submerged in the blood of those heretics and pagans upon Milvian Bridge. We men of Savoy are proud to have acted righteously alongside our Akovian and Adrian brethren, and with commanders like Guy de Bar and Emma Vladov at the helm of our army, our spiritual and military guidance would never be questioned again.
At the battle of the Milvian Bridge, it was not God alone who gave us victory; but we unified men of Oren, ready to die for our cause.26 -
By order of the Privy Council of Oren, with the seal of His Majesty the King, on this day, the 12th of The Grand Harvest, in the year 1500, the Edict of Knighthood has resolutely been passed, hereby declaring that:
- All un-landed "Knights" of the Kingdom of Oren are hereby completely and utterly stripped of all rank and title, to never style themselves "Ser" or claim positions of Gentry, under penalty of death.
- All landed "Knights" of the Kingdom of Oren are hereby ordered to report immediately to His Majesty the King, or His Excellence the Lord Marshal, with firm evidence proving them to be Land Holders and the names of those responsible for knighting them.
- All "Knights" of the Kingdom of Oren shall now exclusively be anointed by the Lord Marshal, after receiving nomination by His Majesty the King, or the Excellency's of the Privy, for great valor in the field or at home.
Penned in the Office of the Stewardship, by the Hand of the Lord Steward, Arik Vanir, on the 12th of Grand Harvest, 1500.
11
Dissolution of the Mareno Contract
in Royal Legislation
Posted · Edited by Principality of Savoy
Dissolution of the Mareno Contract
11th of Horen’s Calling, 1857
TO ALL OUR LOVING AND FAITHFUL SUBJECTS OF WHAT DEGREE AND RANK SOEVER,
With the House Mareno betrayal agains the crown and the abandonment of Myrine, the Principality of Savoy has seen fit to relinquish Myrine and the Marenos from their duties and obligations to the crown and Savoyard lands. Balthazar III Mareno, Marquis of Myrine, continues to uphold his titles and is released from his oaths. He is no longer bound by duty to keep law and order within his holdings, upholding the rule of the ruling dynasts, serving the Savoyard Crown dutifully, and to raise his sword in defense of the Principality due to him remaining uninvolved.
IN NOMINE DEI,
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, Catherine Johanna, Princess Regent of Savoy and Princess of Sutica, Duchess-regent of Corazon, Countess of San Luciano and Sarissa, Baroness of Brynnrose