Andustar

Within the confines of his study, John II's eyes trained over notes and schematics left by his forefathers...

"I should have seen it sooner. It wasn't honour which compelled Malcolm, but rather ambition..." The King of Balian lamented, a crumpled letter within his grasp. His stony eyes were now set upon the sword at his hip; Cloudbreaker trembled in anticipation. "Alas, the traitor made his choice. I only hope he doesn't lack the courage to stand by his decision." Mercy was a virtue that John often aspired to uphold. And yet, he understood that treason could not be so easily forgiven.

John II's eyes, often stony, were now ablaze. "You think I sought to deceive you?" "I marched to the defence of Hyspia against a band of orcs and brigands of the Papal States. And I did so with haste to save lives, with little more than my household guard and guests from abroad. Not a damned army!" "Not a single drop of uruk blood was spilt across the desert; not a single raid was carried out upon uruk lands by my men. The same cannot be said for those who pillage the lands of my Canonist brethren..." The King of Balian's hand clamped tight upon the missive, which he then fed to the fires. "I came to you in good faith. You failed to offer me the same courtesy. Now, you'd best hope your ivory towers are high enough, Valindra."

The rush of battle swept over Hyspia, and Balian answered its ally's call for aid. Unity. The threat of tyranny brought men, bound by faith - not state, together in an act of resistance. In said hour, justice would prevail; the Covenant forces drove off the men of Ravenmire and Orcish warband. Furthermore, their victory lead to the acquisition of two prized captives: Hordespeaker Grommash and Prince Thorin of Ravenmire. "Take his head!" One voice called, their finger pointed at the Prince. Yet, another voice was raised amongst the gathering. "He is a dutiful man. Spare his life," he petitioned to Queen Amaranth; one might have considered it a plea. Nonetheless, his words found reason, and the captive Prince was spared from retribution. "It would have been wiser to kill me, John," said Thorin, led before the city gates, mere inches away from freedom. King John II merely shook his head and watched as he departed. "I made a promise, Thorin..."

"I'd rather live a thousand lives as an 'excommunicant' than draw a single breath as a tyrant," John II declared upon affixing his seal to the letter.

"Find the peace that you deserve, Queen Xiomara. You always sought the best for your people, and for that I must offer unwavering respect," King John II declared upon reading the missive. But he did not dwell, for the world was to change and there was much still to do.

Going to write an actual question here; Considering you wrote a large chunk of the Canonist theology for the server, what would you describe as perhaps the most interesting religious lore in a comparable fantasy setting? E.g. The Elder Scrolls, DnD, etc. Do you think there's a formula that an aspiring writer should keep to, to compose something interesting?

Scheming Eunuch - @HIGH_FIRE Loathsome Heir - @Stal27(actually love this guy) Court Jester - @MapleSunflower Noble Knight - @Luka_Rei or @xDisarray

T H E T R E A T Y O F T H E T R O P I C S ✧⥼─────────༻☨༺─────────⥽✧ JOINTLY ISSUED BY THE KINGDOM OF BALIAN & THE SILVER STATE OF HAELUN’OR ~ 6th of Sigismund’s End 152 BA | 2019 IT ✧⥼─────────༻☨༺─────────⥽✧ I. Sovereignty The Kingdom of Balian and the Silver State of Haelun’or recognize each other's independence, and as such recognize each other’s territorial integrity, their Rulers’ sovereignty, and all other rights and privileges pertaining to that station. II. Non-Aggression The Kingdom of Balian and the Silver State of Haelun’or agree to a pact of Non-Aggression, lasting twenty years after the promulgation of this Treaty, or until the changing of terms of Sohaeren, at which point the treaty would need to be renegotiated. If conflict arises between the nations, then the other points of this treaty would be null and void until reestablished by the concurrence of both sides. III. Extradition The Kingdom of Balian and the Silver State of Haelun’or agree to legal cooperation in criminal matters, pertaining to laws applying to both realms. Fugitives shall be extradited to the realm in which they have offended. Additionally, both realms will coordinate against bandits and other mutual threats, to see them put to proper trial for their offences. IV. Trade The Kingdom of Balian and the Silver State of Haelun’or agree to the free movement of merchants between their respective markets, for the purpose of fostering trade between the nations. Additionally, their respective courts shall coordinate to organize a cultural festival between the nations to foster friendship between their peoples. V. Military Cooperation The Silver State of Haelun’or and Kingdom of Balian shall coordinate their efforts against Darkspawn incursions into either realms, to best assure the eradication of such threats. Additionally, the Regiment of Saint Lothar and Sillumir shall facilitate joint military exercises and training sessions, to further enhance their respective capabilities. AD GLORIAM DEI HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, JOHN II, by the Grace of God, King of Balian, Prince of Providence, Duke of Helena, Lorraine and Reutov, Count of Pompourelia, Viscount of Eflen, Anatis and Valio, Baron of Renzfeld, Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Montcoure and Ciavola, Lord of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, Warden of La Costa Rubinissima, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera. Maehr’sae Hiylun’ehya Laurir Valindra Liavyre-Nullivari, Sohaer of the Silver State of Haelun’or, Protector of Larihei’s Will, The First Veilwatcher Malaurir Avern’dionne Fi’talareh, Maheral, the Voice of Larihei, Guardian of Purity, Bastion of Tradition, Guide to the Mali’thill, and Matriach of the Fi’talareh Talonnii

Prince Edward, To scar one grown - mature enough to comprehend the weight of blasphemy - is one matter. To scar a child - young and in need of gentle correction - on account of her ears is another. From where I stand, the truth of the matter is plain to see. Had a human expressed such ignorance, I have little reason to doubt that your man would have shown restraint. As children of God, we must be mindful that mercy is a virtue, and that ignorance can be remedied through the guiding hand of the faithful. For in our hands we may wield the sword, but so too can they be used in healing this world the Lord has gifted unto us. Had I sought to rule like a tyrant of yore, I would not have ridden north and bothered in seeking an honest conversation within your halls in the beginning. I would not have left said halls in trust that you would uphold your word to me, out of respect for the friendship that previously existed between our two peoples. A friendship I had hoped would last. Perhaps it was brash to call you away from Alba and to Portoregne, for the sake of resolving this situation, even after I had promised to uphold the laws of hospitality. This is most certainly a delicate matter, and I should expect you to feel obliged to stand by your men. However, you have always had the choice to refuse. You have always had the right to speak your mind, and so I ask where was this bark you now display when I first brought my concerns to your halls? If this is truly how you feel on the matter at hand, I would have appreciated an admission to such then and there. I would have greater respect for you in standing by your principles, even if I consider them abhorrent. It has taken some time, but I am glad that you have finally mustered the courage to be honest with me. Better late than never, as the saying goes. I doubt relations will ever return to the state in which they used to exist, but I am most willing to sit opposite you and deliberate upon a proper resolution through which justice prevails and peace is restored. It is what I have set out to do from the beginning, and I shall see this through until the end. AD GLORIAM DEI HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, JOHN II, by the Grace of God, King of Balian, Prince of Providence, Duke of Helena, Lorraine and Reutov, Count of Pompourelia, Viscount of Eflen, Anatis and Valio, Baron of Renzfeld, Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Montcoure and Ciavola, Lord of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, Warden of La Costa Rubinissima, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera.

A R E S P O N S E T O A L B A N A G G R E S S I O N ✧⥼─────────༻☨༺─────────⥽✧ ISSUED BY THE CROWN OF BALIAN ~ 9th of Sun’s Smile 152 BA | 2019 IT ✧⥼─────────༻☨༺─────────⥽✧ TO OUR BELOVED SUBJECTS, It is with a heavy heart that we address you on this day, announcing a series of sanctions and reforms in relation to our foreign and domestic security. These measures have been taken in response to acts of aggression, originating from a state whom we have willingly supported both domestically and militarily, for a number of years. The Duchy of Alba. THE TRANSGRESSIONS As of the year 2017 IT. - King John rode out to meet Prince Edward of Alba, upon learning that a then nine-year-old elven girl and citizen of Balian, named Elsii’mah, was allegedly assaulted and maimed by an officer of the Prince’s Army, losing one of her ears as a consequence. The officer in question - a man by the name of Robert de Rouen, otherwise known as ‘Robert of Ulmsbottom’, who styles himself as the ‘Partriach-Dynast of Ashford’. Confirmation as to Robert’s identity was initially withheld from our Kingdom, with neither the Prince nor his retinue confirming whether such a man was pledged to the Duchy. This was in spite of pledges to actively inform us on the progress of their investigations, and the measures that would be taken to ensure justice was fulfilled. It would not be until more recent circumstances that greater light was shed on the matter. As of the year 2018 IT. - Two citizens of the Kingdom of Balian, Owyn and Louis de Savoie, both aged fifteen at the time of the incident, were assaulted by six associates loyal to Robert de Rouen, within the city of Numenost. Six men, who were bested by the two boys they sought to break. Three of these assailants reportedly went by the following names: Sir Jon de Lewes, Jacque and Hughes Ashes. Prior to the attack, the House de Savoie also received a letter from Robert de Rouen, demanding their fealty. The contents of this letter are detailed below: It is evident that the House de Savoie’s refusal entails violence and coercion from those who would have them kneel. Furthermore, in proving himself a man who preys upon those he deems weaker than himself - children and adolescents - it is also evident that we cannot expect Robert de Rouen to possess the honour befitting a man of his station. We cannot expect him to willingly take accountability for his crimes. Ear shearing is a barbaric and inhumane practice. It has been outlawed within the Kingdom of Balian since our establishment as a nation, and records will show it has been formally outlawed throughout the realms of men for centuries. Only after further inquiries would Prince Edward declare he ‘reprimanded’ his Captain for the act of shearing - as of 2019 IT. Yet, as of this missive’s publishing, we understand that Robert retains his rank and station. Furthermore, despite the status of the House de Savoie as citizens of our realm, His Highness deems their assault by his own citizenry a matter ‘independent of our separate polities’, on account of the family not being landed peers. This is not a view shared by the Kingdom of Balian. A single transgression could be considered a misunderstanding. Yet, multiple transgressions in quick succession, as a consequence of the direct or indirect actions of the same individual, can only be considered a deliberate demonstration of aggression. Already, we have extended an invitation unto Prince Edward, requesting a summit within the Palatio Arancione, where those in attendance would be protected by the laws of hospitality. Yet, His Highness refuses to meet in these circumstances, insisting that the matter be resolved within his own territory when he has already failed to adequately address Robert de Rouen’s crimes. When he has failed to uphold his word as a self-proclaimed ‘friend’ to our people. This will not do. OUR RESPONSE As a consequence of the crimes committed by Robert de Rouen, a Captain of the Prince’s Army, and the failure of the government of the Duchy of Alba to adequately address these crimes, the Kingdom of Balian hereby implements the following measures: Foreigners hailing from the Duchy of Alba shall henceforth be denied access to all settlements within the Kingdom of Balian, and will be removed upon discovery. This restriction also applies to diplomats, unless approved by the Crown. Sanctions will be implemented on all trade between the Kingdom of Balian and the Duchy of Alba. Alban merchants and citizens are prohibited from participating in acts of commerce within the Balianese markets. Further acts of aggression towards the Kingdom of Balian and its citizenry, be they in the form of threats or violence, by those pledged to the Duchy of Alba and Robert de Rouen will be considered an immediate declaration of hostility. We advise subjects of the Kingdom of Balian to avoid all travel to and throughout the Duchy of Alba, until further notice. We call upon Prince Edward of Alba and Robert de Rouen to attend a diplomacy summit on neutral grounds, whereby peace may be restored and justice fulfilled. Representatives of foreign governments are also welcome to attend as spectators to the proceedings. Restrictive measures shall remain in place until a joint agreement is signed between the Kingdom of Balian and the Duchy of Alba. AD GLORIAM DEI HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, JOHN II, by the Grace of God, King of Balian, Prince of Providence, Duke of Helena, Lorraine and Reutov, Count of Pompourelia, Viscount of Eflen, Anatis and Valio, Baron of Renzfeld, Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Montcoure and Ciavola, Lord of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, Warden of La Costa Rubinissima, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera.

King John II smiled as the missive was published. At long last, months of diplomacy and discussions had paid off. "United in faith, nary in state," he said, reiterating the mantra that had brought the signatories together.

"My son, the day you were born truly was a gift to your Imma and me. This day will be your triumph, and I will watch with pride as you grow into a righteous and honourable man." John II spoke as he observed the preparations, ensuring all was in place for the Prince's investiture. He recalled the infant he had once held in his arms, nearly a grown man in his own right. "It is my earnest hope that you will surpass those who came before, and safeguard the dream that binds our people together."

T H E T R E A T Y O F B E L V E T H ✧⥼─────────༻❁༺─────────⥽✧ JOINTLY ISSUED BY THE KINGDOM OF BALIAN & THE PRINCIPALITY OF REINMAR - 13th of Sigismund’s End 151 BA | 2018 IT ✧⥼─────────༻❁༺─────────⥽✧ I. Sovereignty The Kingdom of Balian and the Principality of Reinmar recognize each other's independence as Canonist Realms, and as such recognize each other’s territorial integrity, their Rulers’ sovereignty, and all other rights and privileges pertaining to that station. II. Defence The Kingdom of Balian and the Principality of Reinmar agree to a mutual defensive alliance in event of hostilities from a foreign power or darkspawn. An attack on one shall be considered an attack on the other. The signatories shall refrain from acts of aggression towards one another. Any disputes which may arise between the signatories shall be resolved solely through peaceful and diplomatic means. The signatories pledge to coordinate in the eradication of darkspawn incursions into either of their realms. III. Extradition The Kingdom of Balian and the Principality of Reinmar agree to legal cooperation in criminal matters, and the extradition of fugitives to the realm in which they have offended, and coordination against bandits and other mutual threats, to see them put to proper trial for their offences. IV. Trade The Kingdom of Balian and the Principality of Reinmar agree to the free movement of merchants between their respective markets, for the purpose of fostering trade between the nations. Furthermore, the courts of the signatories are committed to the organization of festivities and cultural exchanges, to foster bonds of fellowship between their peoples. V. Duration This treaty takes effect immediately upon signing and will last a total of fifteen years, or otherwise expire upon the death of either ruling monarch. After this term, the signatories will reconvene to review and potentially renegotiate the treaty. AD GLORIAM DEI HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, JOHN II, by the Grace of God, King of Balian, Prince of Providence, Duke of Helena, Lorraine and Reutov, Count of Pompourelia, Viscount of Eflen, Anatis and Valio, Baron of Renzfeld, Brucca, Valens, Malenos, Montcoure and Ciavola, Lord of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, Warden of La Costa Rubinissima, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS ERWIN, By the Grace of God and Light of the Ancestors, RVOOBE GMSTSR, Prince in Reinmar, Prince of Sutica and Minitz, Duke of Reinmar, Count of Kretzen, Neu Brandthof and Freimark, Burgrave of Langenkirch, Viscount of Tucay, Baron of Freising, Madvon, and Boriënwald, Lord of Sankt Johannsburg, Freisburg, Wilheburg, Rozenfeld, Erwinsburg, Neuberg and Durres, High Chief of the Reinmaren, Warden of the Ferdenwald and Franklands

"My son, you truly have grown into a fine young man," John II commented. The Prince of Monterosa's work prompted an expression of pride. "I have faith in you, Lothar."

John II read the signature of the missive and frowned. "It appears I was lied to," he grumbled. "Prince Edward has much to explain."

". . ." The King of Balian clutched the missive in the midst of a court address, quick to hand it off to his Amiratus. "And to think, they only attended his funeral in an act of condolence two months ago..." He made due preparations to ride.

Once again, silence swept across the halls of the Palatio Arancione. Few figures had provided a constant presence like Milena Barbanov-Bihar; her authority was absolute, and her mind was sharp like a rondel. John Casimir would have considered the word unsettling an appropriate description at times, yet he never admitted that, nor did it distract him from the truth. In spite of her pride and ruthless knack for politics, the King of Balian held a deep sense of respect for the former Lady Palatine. And on occasion, he noticed the slightest expression of kindness, fleeting but sincere nonetheless. "I wish I'd known that side of you better, Princess Milena," John admitted softly. He knew her at her best, but would have preferred an earnest friendship. "I never forgot your support, particularly in my darkest hour." He poured himself a glass of red wine, from which he took a measured sip. Perhaps Milena sought the same, he thought, although he knew she would never admit it. The King chuckled in knowing that. "Rest now, my friend. Your work is done."

"The Kingdom of Balian will be in attendance," John II declared, hastily making the necessary preparations.

"My friend... You were taken from this world too soon," John II muttered softly to himself. "We both sought a lasting peace. A world in which sense and justice triumphed over fanaticism and cruelty." He laid aside the missive. The King had stepped out and on to the palace balcony, watching the clouds roll overhead. "I pray that you've found that peace, Karl."

"What on earth? Surely there are more pressing matters to consider than whatever this is," John II commented, scrunching his face up as the Act was detailed to him. "Madness... Madness and stupidity."