Wavey

Diamond Dust glitters in the ashes of a spare… Such was Joren’s fate; Yet, no one understood that feeling better than his friend Robert. There was a difference here, however: Joren was to be a king amidst the sudden loss of his eldest brother. Karl IV was consumed by the pressure of the throne. A man of honor and renown; a man of dignity and principles. Yet, the stress had reached his heart too soon. As for Nadya, a warrior now thrusted into the politics of the court alongside her husband. And so, King Joren stood beside his Queen Nadya; Over a Kingdom in a time of uncertainty. . . . Persist. or Perish. Robert knew that they will stand firm.

Probably Miles Teller.

In another life, Cesar II de Pelear would smile with pride for his homeland, his ancestors, and for his people. His last final act which he could never finish had finally been completed by the generations after him; Such is the beauty of humanity. As the holder of the torch fades away, another shall carry it down the path illuminating the tapestry of humanity.

“Careful on Thanes Road.” “Hmm?” The Cardinal’s head craned upwards for the moment to meet the innkeeper’s eyes whilst the man spoke. His rugged fingers rested upon the open book to ensure he did not get lost in his reading. “I said, careful on Thanes Road.” The innkeeper’s lips curled into a light smile as he said those words. The bearded man’s lips were slightly cracked whilst his teeth were a slight shade of a daffodil’s yellow. “I noticed you are reading about our lands here.” The man set the warm bowl of salmon head soup and the complementing wooden cup of black tea down upon the counter before the Cardinal. The Cardinal’s stoic gaze did not falter. Rather, his lone cobalt eye returned its attention to the written tome; his finger rested upon the chapter regarding Sólgaard. “Da. Your lands intrigue me.” He took hold of the wooden spoon, using it to help himself with a taste of the Norn dish. “Intrigue you?” The innkeeper echoed those words as he raised a brow towards the Cardinal. He noticed the ivory and aurum rosary wreathed around the holy man’s neck, right above his armor. “Are you one of those grailmen from the heartlands?” The question prompted a snort from the Cardinal. He set his spoon down before reaching for the wooden cup of the piping hot tea which he then took a sip from. He held the tea cup in his hand; his gaze returning from the tome to the inkeeper. “Tell me…have you heard of Sólgaard?” Now it was the innkeeper’s turn to laugh. As he did so, another patron who sat two stools away from the Cardinal turned his head towards the innkeeper and the holy man in confusion. “My friend. Who has not heard of Sólgaard? The Norns who originate from the hearths of that village have all made names for themselves.” The Cardinal did not react to the laugh, nor to the answer. He remained silent, his curious gaze still focused upon the innkeeper. Another singular moment passed before he then spoke. “Where is it?” The amused look of the innkeeper then changed to that of confusion. He was taken aback by the Cardinal’s straightforward questions. Nevertheless, he answered for he was oath bound as a host to the travelers and the tired. “If you travel east through Thanes Road you may find it, nestled by the rugged mountains and accompanied by the temperate coast.” Satisfied, the Cardinal took a more generous swig of the cup of tea until he finished its contents. He ignored the burning rush of the heat as it travelled down his throat. ”Thank you.” That was all he said as he set the wooden cup down before getting up from his seat. “If I may ask…” the Innkeeper would say whilst the Cardinal now arose, “Why do you wish to go there?” The Cardinal did not speak. He merely brought his hand to his satchel before producing a large handful of minae. He did not count them either; rather, he merely pressed them all in unison upon the counter. “A brother of mine once told me-” He began, “That the Light’s path is never-ending, but it requires the strength of many to overcome the challenges before us.” He took hold of his right gauntlet, carefully equipping them to his right hand. “I wish to see what fire he saw in the souls of those that come from Sólgaard.” He did the same action now with his left gauntlet upon his left hand. “For if I am to shepherd my flock down the path he set before us…I must learn what it means to share the same ideals that transcend faith.” He picked up his plated helmet from the counter before dipping his head. “Thank you, friend. Light Preserve.” The Cardinal now turned about, his plated boots clinked against the wooden floorboards whilst he walked away. The innkeeper pondered the holy man’s words. Yet, it was the farewell from the Cardinal that brought a smile to his lips. “And prevail.” The Cardinal stopped before the front door of the inn as he heard those words. His stoic gaze finally faltered as a smile formed upon his lips. For he now understood. Regardless of faith, their goal was the same. He opened the door now as he disappeared out to the unknown of the eastern tundra. “You gave him the wrong direction. He does not need to go through Thanes Road to reach Sólgaard.” The voice came from the very same patron who had watched the exchange between the now gone Cardinal and the innkeeper. The innkeeper merely turned towards the patron as he raised his shoulders in a shrug. “Let us see if he means what he says. The All Father knows best.” And with that, his gaze returned towards the front door again. Where the Cardinal had departed from not so long before.

Ivan had first met Villorik amongst the green vineyards by the former Apostilic See. The Southern Cardinal was nothing more than a green priest at that time. He felt miniscule in his station, compared to the mighty figure of the Patriarch. Yet, the Patriarch glanced his way, offering him a nod of acknowledgement. As the southern Ruthern rose in station, he joined Caius’s curia as a cardinal. Villorik, who was once an imposing figure before him, now stood beside him as his brethren. And as a brother and distant kin, the Patriarch welcomed him openly within the gardens of his Basilica. “What troubles you, Ivan?” Said Villorik as he tended to the newly grown floral crops in his garden. Ivan was at first hesitant to respond. Nevertheless, he did so; For the Patriarch before him required an answer. “It is the state of our world, brethren. The brutality and bloodshed. I fear the wheels of progress have been halted by the pitfalls of paranoia.” “Fear…Ivan…fear is a good thing to have. Yet, do not let such freeze your dreams, your ambitions, or your calling. Let it rather shape your courage, let it guide you to the light.” “But how am I to stop the bloodshed, Villorik? I am merely a green cardinal. I am the youngest within our college.” “Such is the cycle of mankind, Ivan. From the ashes of war comes progress, that progress is then halted by war. Our life is short compared to the natural cycle of this world, our true purpose is beyond this world. It is through the seven skies.” “Yet it aches my heart that I cannot do more for our flock here within this world. To guide them away from the bloodshed.” “Are you sure? Ivan? The true enemies of our world are the shadow that creeps within the crevices where the light cannot reach.” “Then…I shall be a carrier of this light, to ensure it reaches all corners of this world.” “And how shall you do that?” And it was at that moment, Ivan stood tall. His once anxious gaze was replaced by resolute determination to brave the unknown. “By leading. I may be the youngest but I have a vision for our flock. I will put forth that vision through our institutions and through our blades.” Villorik smiled underneath his visage at the Green Cardinal’s words as he let out an approving grunt. “You have ambition. Ivan. A good soul you are. Perhaps your dreams shall come into fruition. For you shall outlive me.” Outlive him. Villorik had told him those words many times. Once at the gardens, once at the Holy See, once at the battle for Belvedere, and once at Nau Valdev. Perhaps it was a suggestion, request, or an order; To outlive him. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ The aged Cardinal’s gaze went towards the candle light as he stood beside the young Lothar. They had ignited the candle together, within his own Cathedral. “What ails you my son?” That same voice which he had heard long ago at Caius’s deathbed still resonated within his mind. That voice was now ever clearer. It was a voice from Caius. “You were right…weren’t you? I prayed that you were wrong, yet the LORD answered your call before mine.” His grumbling voice was directed towards the candlelight. His once stoic demeanor now washed away as a small smile formed upon his lips. “Fine. You win.” A face now passed within his mind for a moment, one of Bishop Alaric and that young acolyte of his named Stefan. The Southern Cardinal turned the gaze of his singular left eye towards Lothar. As he did so, his smile grew again. He faced the candlelight once more. “Dreams are just dreams. My time nears as well now, Brother. I shall join you and Caius there. For I am confident that the ones who come after us shall carry on the light. Firmly, and with resolve.” He arose from the altar as he then turned towards the empty pews before him. “They will have the strength to fulfill our vision.”

KRUSAE ZWY KONGZEM Issued by THE BROTHERHOOD OF SAINT KARL On this 15th of TOV AG YERMEY of 567 ES DESIGNATED: PUBLIC THREAT ASSESSMENT: CODE-02 OTTO-LEVEL REPORTING SQUADRON: BSK TASKFORCE “EXTERMINATORS” PARTICULARS: Taskforce “EXTERMINATORS” consisting of: Armsman Robert Ludovar, Princess Milena Anastasya, Ser Andrei Kortrevich, Squire Dima Kovachev and Lord Malcolm d’Arkent arrived at an abandoned Oyashiman monastery situated north of Isaakev and Vidaus. The taskforce’s main objective was to investigate the monastic ruins for signs of life and any evidence of the reason for its abandonment. The abandoned monastery contained one entrance, blocked by a few boulders. The taskforce were able to overcome this obstacle through the use of their mounts. The abandoned monastery contained a frozen carcass beyond recognition annd its sacred grounds were tainted by dried blood. The origins of the dried blood are unknown. Another roadblock would soon greet them in the form of unnatural ice foreign to the tundra’s ecosystem. The ice contained many scratch marks as if a certain creature had attempted to break through it long before. Both Robert Ludovar and Andrei Kortrevich were able to clear the ice, revealing a pathway that led further into the courtyard. The taskforce ventured further within the courtyard; where they found an influx of flora within the open area. The rustling of the centermost bush within the courtyard alerted the taskforce. It was Dima Kovachev who took the liberty to check the bush. Much to the taskforce’s chagrin, a creature leapt out of the bush, pouncing upon Dima Kovachev who was incapacitated by the creature’s weight. It was then that the taskforce found the true horror that was sealed away from the world: an instectoid-like being larger than six feet, its arms contained pincers whilst its unsightly eyes protruded from its helm. sinister green bile dripped from its mandibles as it held Dima Kovachev firmly upon the ground. Andrei Kortrevich and Robert Ludovar managed to successfully free Dima Kovachev from the creature's grasp with a polearm and shield, knocking the creature off of her. However, the creature then focused its unsettling eyes upon Malcolm d’Arkent, leaping towards him whilst using its pincers to stab upon the latter’s boots. Both Andrei Kortrevich and Robert Ludovar would soon realize that any strikes against the creature’s backside, head and limbs were ineffective; especially with blunt weapons. Rather, it was Milena Anastasya’s lunge with her talon shaped dagger towards the creature’s protruding eye that provided satisfying results. Andrei Kortrevich blinded the creature’s second eye with his singular blade. The taskforce managed to free Malcolm D’arkent from the creature’s grip whilst it was blinded. It took one more swing with its hardened pincers at Robert Ludovar who hastingly blocked the blow with his heater shield albeit taken off-guard by the creature’s surprising strength. All focus was then put upon the creature’s soft belly and injured eyes. It was then swiftly felled by the killing blow landed by Dima Kovachev, Malcolm d’Arkent and Milena Anastasya. Before it was felled, the creature let out a shrill scream. The taskforce could not celebrate their victory; for the shrill scream uttered by the felled creature in its dying breath alerted others of its similar frame at the distance. The taskforce immediately retreated upon seeing the plethora of orange eyes stalking them from afar and beyond the courtyard with malice. Although the investigation and encounter were successful, taskforce “EXTERMINATORS” reports that the monastery requires a complete sweep due to the large influx of insectoid creatures and other horrors lurking within. The recent encounter provides enough evidence that these insectoid creatures are extremely vulnerable to sharp weapons, especially upon their softer underbellies or eyes. Taskforce “EXTERMINATORS” recommends a BSK expedition into this area posthaste before such horrors can wreak further chaos in the northern Haeseni borders. ╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣ IV JOVEO MAAN, Robert Ludovar, Armsman of the Brotherhood of Saint Karl

Name: Robert Audemar Ludovar Nationality: Haeseni Joust or Mach? (Can be both): Both! Do you love chivalry?: Da!

A scarred Cardinal sat by the fireplace of his office within the Cathedral of the Holy Supernals. He had heard the news, the passing of a close friend not much older than him, yet much closer to him in thoughts and beliefs. He closed his eyes then, a sigh escaping his lips. His body still ached from the blessing of Saint Michael. Yet, he remained awake. "Your time nears, Does it not, son of Sigismund?" A smile formed upon the Cardinal's lips as he heard that voice within his mind. Was it Caius? Saint Michael? Or was it merely a figment of his imagination? "Perhaps. Unless Villorik is right." He then sat forward then, wincing from the burning sensation due to the movement of his body. He moved a bishop diagonally forward upon the porcelain chessboard. At the other side of the board was an empty chair; An empty chair once reserved for an old friend of the line of Temesch. "But I do miss playing one more game with him."

High Court of Justice of the Church of the Canon IN THE MATTER OF: The Church of the Canon v. Princeps Atticus Keen, et al. SUBMISSION BY THE PROSECUTION to the High Court of Justice of the Church of the Canon From: Pontifical Prosecutor Alaric Bishop Altamirano Cardinal Ivan Lotharia Date: 14th of Harren’s Folly, 2012 A.D INTRODUCTION Purpose of the Submission: This submission is made on behalf of the prosecution in connection with the above-referenced case. It outlines the prosecution's position, provides relevant evidence, and seeks appropriate relief or directions from this Holy Court. Nature of the Case: Princeps Atticus Keen, Boris of Ivoria, and Eduard of Ivoria by and through authority of the Pontifical Prosecution, are hereby charged with violation of the enumerated penal codes below pursuant to the Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition and the Canticle of Patience provided by the Scroll of Virtue, enumerated below: Scroll of Virtue, Canticle of Patience: “So I am the Most High, and in pursuit of My Virtue, I bid my faithful this: You shall not raise a hand in wrath, nor in envy, nor in any kind of sin.” (Virtue 5:9). Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition Book I, Title I, Chapter I: §1. The Holy Scrolls, comprising the Virtue of Horen; the Spirit of Owyn; the Gospel of Godfrey; and the Auspice of Sigismund are the foundation of all law and morality. §2. It is the right of the Church through the High Pontiff to interpret and apply the commandments of the Holy Scrolls. §3. Nothing is assuredly the command of the Exalted unless it be written in the Holy Scrolls, they being divinely inspired. Codex Lurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition Book V, Title II, Chapter 3: §5. A person who insults or threatens a cleric has committed a crime. §10. A person who obstructs the justice of the Church has committed a crime. §11. A person who illegitimately attempts to enforce canon law has committed a crime. Pursuant to the Preliminary Decision issued by the High Court of Justice, the Pontifical Prosecution may still pursue criminal charges against Atticus Keen and his constituents under Canon Law. Church of the Canon v. Keen, et. al., HCI-002/12, 11, 17 (2012). STATEMENT OF FACTS: Summary of Relevant Facts: Two elves from Caurost entered the territories of the Pontifical State, specifically within the Principality of Ivoria. Defendants Boris of Ivoria and Eduard of Ivoria approached the two elves and held them against their will. Defendants then proceeded to cut off the ears of the two elves and then forcefully converted them to the Canonist Faith. Defendant Atticus Keen of Ivoria was informed of the matter but refused to investigate and discipline the two knights whom he concedes serve him. Defendant Atticus Keen then proceeded to make negative remarks against elves, even those who are peaceful, canonist, and allied with the Pontifical States. Amidst the ongoing investigation of this case, Defendant Atticus Keen would then call for the deaths of all witnesses interviewed by the prosecution whilst also calling for the assassination of Pontifical Prosecutor Cardinal Ivan of Lotharia. The High Court of Justice had issued a preliminary dismissal of the case pursuant to the inadmissibility of the Pontifical Directives issued by the Pontifical States. The High Court of Justice would then instruct the Pontifical Prosecution to pursue charges pursuant to The Canon Law. A Saint’s hour after the decision issued by the High Court of Justice, Princeps Atticus Keen would issue a search warrant for three witnesses without consulting the Premier of the Pontifical States’s Cabinet. Actions by the Prosecution to Date: Various witnesses have been interviewed, and testimony or affidavits have been secured. General Investigation surrounding the crimes of Attics Keen and Others. A Report, is being published by Petran and Caruousi authorities which the prosecution will utilize as further evidence upon receival. PARTIES INVOLVED: Prosecution: Ivan Cardinal Lotharia Alaric Bishop Altamirano Defendant(s): Atticus Keen Ser Eduard Korperal Boris All Constituents adhering to Atticus Keen’s most recent missive: Bounty For Traitors Against Ivoria Other Relevant Parties (if applicable): TBD. EVIDENCE RELIED UPON Summary of Evidence: The Prosecution intends to rely upon witness testimonies, affidavits, and the recently published missive by Princeps Atticus Keen: Bounty For Traitors Against Ivoria. Supporting Documentation: The prosecution submits the following evidence in support of its charges: The written testimonies collected by Prosecutor Alaric Bishop Altamirano. Written and signed affidavit of a witness regarding Atticus Keen’s intention and desire to harm or assassinate all witnesses and a Pontifical Prosecutor. A copy of Atticus Keen’s Missive: Bounty For Traitors Against Ivoria. Further evidence shall be provided as the investigation continues. Relevance of the Evidence: Relevance provided within the Legal Arguments below. LEGAL ARGUMENTS: Discussion: A. Establishment of Personal Jurisdiction The Holy Scrolls are a fundamental pillar of the Canonist Catechism. Each scroll contains written instructions and rules in which a canonist shall abide by. Book I, Chapter I of the Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition outlines the Holy Scrolls as the primary framework and foundation for all Canon Law. See Daniel VI, James II, Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition (Rev. 1801). The Canon Law is derived from the Holy Scrolls. Its laws may be amended or added per the will of the Holy Mother Church through the High Pontiff. See id. The Pontifical States is a sovereign entity under the direct jurisdiction of the High Pontiff and Holy Mother Church. Furthermore, under the Constitution of the Pontifical States issued by the High Pontiff through his golden bull, the Canon Law shall be the ultimate law governing any individual domiciled within the Pontifical States. See Harrentzedek I, Prima Aurea Bulla Citreum Collis, Section XI (2004). The High Court of Justice is the highest judicial court within the demesne of the Pontifical States and exercises supreme judicial authority within the Holy Mother Church. See Bainbridge, Praecepta Procedendi, Chapter I: Rule I (2004). The High Court of Justice has granted the Pontifical Prosecution the authority to raise criminal complaints against the Defendants in its preliminary decision of the first iteration of this case. Church of the Canon v. Keen, et. al., HCI-002/12, 11, 17 (2012). Defendants are citizens within the Pontifical States. Defendants are domiciled within the Pontifical states. Thus, Defendants are subject to Personal Jurisdiction by this court. B. On the systematic persecution of the Children of Malin It has been established that the Canon Law governs the territories of the Pontifical States. The Scroll of Virtue, a progenitor of the Canon Law, establishes the Canticle of Patience which provides: “So I am the Most High, and in pursuit of My Virtue, I bid my faithful this: You shall not raise a hand in wrath, nor in envy, nor in any kind of sin.” (Virtue 5:9). The persecution of innocent descendants violates this canticle. Within the Scroll of Gospel, Godfrey is admonished by the LORD for spreading the faith by the sword whilst proclaiming the superiority of humanity above all descendants: “Thus the Lord was wroth with Godfrey and He spoke ‘Lo, you have been proud and called My work your own. Who clove the waters from the earth, and who created the Skies and the Void?’” (Gospel 7:20-22). For it is within these lines whereas the ALMIGHTY warns against the dangers of using HIS name to incite needless violence. Compulsory conversion to the canonist faith without just cause is further prohibited under Canon Law. The Scroll of Spirit provides in its epistle to the godwinites, “Verily, brother, the Lord GOD has given no compulsion in faith.” (Spirit 1:3). Here, witness testimonies privy to the Princep’s council provide that Atticus Keen purposefully refused to prosecute Ser Eduard and Korperal Boris who attempted to forcefully convert a mother and child into the Canonist Faith. Princeps Keen has also been heard by the witnesses that, “these were elves, and not worth sufficiently punishing a Knight over nor would he approve the arrest” even when these knights threatened the “death and mutilation of a child.” Further depositions from the witness testimony reveal that Atticus Keen expresses a “disdain for elves” and such a comment was backed by the witnesses themselves who stated that he had once “belittled” an elven canonist studying as an acolyte under the Holy Mother Church. A later witness has also testified under oath that prior to the establishment of Ivoria’s city, Atticus Keen had expressly stated that “any elf seen on his lands will be thrown off the cliffside.” Thus, the aforementioned testimonies clearly show a blatant violation of the Canticle of Patience within the Scroll of Virtue. C. On the illegitimate enforcement of the Canon Law Having established that the Pontifical States-through its constitution issued by the High Pontiff-adheres to the Canon Law as the supreme law of the land, its enforcement may only be granted by the Holy Mother Church. See Daniel VI, James II, Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition (Rev. 1801). Section 11 of Book 5, Title 1, Chapter 3 of Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition states that: “§11. A person who illegitimately attempts to enforce canon law has committed a crime.” See id. This binding statute governs the supremacy of the Pontifical States in its enforcement of Canon Law. The Directives issued by the Premier, who governs the nation on behalf of the High Pontiff, are subject to the Canon Law. Thus, all internal and diplomatic endeavors of the Pontifical States must adhere to the Canon Law. A witness privy to the military actions of Ivoria and present during a diplomatic incident with Nevaehlen states that when Atticus Keen and his retinue arrived at the gates of the Vale, he was “refused entrance”. Furthermore in accordance with the witness’s testimony, it can be reasonably assumed that when Atticus Keen had threatened “war with the Vale” for being refused entrance into their city, he was acting without consent from the Premier’s cabinet and the High Pontiff. His separate action can be considered an illegitimate enforcement of the canon law. Another witness testimony provides that the witness had seen a soldier of the Ivorian military execute an elf. When the witness asked the reason for the execution, the soldier stated that “Atticus said so”. When the witness inquired the reason for Atticus’s order, the soldier “was unable to state the actual crime he had committed.” Further, a testimony from another individual privy to the Princep’s courts had stated that Atticus Keen had once let elven diplomats into his city before “hunting them down like dogs” afterwards. Such an act violates Pontifical Supremacy of the Canon Law regarding diplomacy. Rather than letting the elven diplomats speak with the Premier or the High Pontiff, Atticus Keen took it upon himself to issue orders to harm them. Thus, the prosecution claims that under the Canon Law, Atticus Keen has violated section 11 of Book 5, Title 1, Chapter 3 of Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition through these diplomatic incidents and his orders to harm elves either be it out of vendetta, or personal ambitions of violence. Lastly, Atticus Keens missive calling for the capture or death of three witnesses whom he labels as “traitors” within his missive is also a violation of Section 11 of the Canon Law. He did not consult with the High Pontiff nor the Premier of the Pontifical States before publishing his missive. D. On the threats issued by Atticus Keen and his constituents Section 5 of Book 5, Title 1, Chapter 3 of Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition provides that “§5. A person who insults or threatens a cleric has committed a crime.” See id. When such a threat is against a Cardinal of the Holy Mother Church and privy to the High Pontiff’s Curia, it is schismatic in nature. See id. Section 10 of Book 5, Title 1, Chapter 3 of Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition provides that “§10. A person who obstructs the justice of the Church has committed a crime.” See id. An affidavit written under oath by a witness privy to Atticus Keen’s court and council has stated that “Atticus directly called for the Death” of Cardinal Ivan while also to “intimidate” Bishop Alaric. When the Pontifical Prosecutors are working strictly in professional capacity on behalf of the Holy Mother Church, such dangerous statements may incite further violence and instability within Canondom. The same affidavit states that Atticus Keen had also “directly called” for the death of the witnesses essential to this case and investigation. Such blatant threats are evidently a form of obstruction of justice. The recent missive published by Atticus Keen titled Bounty For Traitors Against Ivoria solidifies the claims made by the signed affidavit. These names were mentioned by the witness who had signed the affidavit. If such is true, then it can be reasonably inferred that Atticus Keen is not above harming clergymen within the Holy Mother Church if he does not like them. Furthermore, the prosecution finds that the Princeps may hire mercenaries and brigands to find these witnesses. Thus, these same mercenaries and brigands may choose to harm others who oppose Atticus Keen all for the Princeps’s favor. Refutation of Defense Arguments: A. On the matter of “Sovereign Entities” and “Feudal Concerns” The defense may argue similarly during their previous motion to dismiss that Pontifical Prosecution is encroaching upon the sovereign rights of Ivoria. Such an argument has no merit. As it was established in the aforementioned arguments, the Pontifical States has supreme authority under the Canon Law over its citizens and all residents domiciled within its territories pursuant by the very Golden Bull published by the High Pontiff. See Harrentzedek I, Prima Aurea Bulla Citreum Collis, Section XI (2004). Furthermore, the Pontifical Prosecution is an extension of the Canon Church exercising its professional authority as investigators and prosecutors for the Judiciary of the Holy Mother Church. See Daniel VI, James II, Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition, Book I (Rev. 1801). Vassals being “sovereign entities” do not nullify their liege’s supreme authority above them. No explicit and written agreement was signed between Ivoria and the Holy Mother Church outlining a contractual relationship. The Constitution merely provides the privileges Vassals may have, and such privileges are subject to the discretion of the Holy Mother Church through the High Pontiff and the Premier of the Pontifical States. This discretion is further legitimized under Book I, Chapter I, Section 2 the Canon Law. See id; See also Daniel VI, James II, Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition, Book I (Rev. 1801). Furthermore the “feudal contracts” and “feudal concerns” argument has no legal basis within the Pontifical States. It is established law and tradition that the High Pontiff has a permanent mandate as Vicar of GOD. His curia, and institutions are the extension of that same mandate which permits him to govern in accordance with the LORD’s will. Feudal concerns are merely reserved for Canonist Princes or any other sovereign who does not have a permanent mandate. See Daniel VI, James II, Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition (Rev. 1801). Thus, Ivoria is not a sovereign entity, for it is not an independent entity. It is subject to the directives, decrees and authority of His Holiness and the Holy Mother Church. B. On the matter of “Double Jeopardy” The defense may put forth a “double jeopardy” argument. Minus the explicit lack of the double jeopardy defense within Canon Law, The Prosecution will entertain this form of defense in anticipation of future cases where such a defense may arise. The High Court of Justice has provided a criminal mandate for the Pontifical Prosecution in its preliminary decision under section 11 and Section 17. Church of the Canon v. Keen, et. al., HCI-002/12, 11, 17 (2012). This mandate permits the prosecution to reopen this case de novo pursuant to Canon Law. Both sections provide that the Prosecution may pursue this case again but under the jurisprudence of Canon Law. Thus, at the time this submission is presented before the courts, the Prosecution rests its charges under the Canon Law. C. On the matter of “Negligence” The Prosecution concedes that negligence is a river which flows through the canals of civil litigation. Tortious in nature, civil litigation is the best medicine for the aching pain of negligence. However, Atticus Keen’s actions were not negligent. As the above facts and arguments have shown. The Princeps’ purposeful neglect of investigating the actions committed by his retinue, and further evidence of his direct orders show a matter of “depraved heart” indifference to the victims and complete ignorance to the laws of the Pontifical States. D. On the matter of “Sovereign Privilege” Privilege is not a right. Privilege is a reward given to loyal subjects of their liege. Here, Atticus Keen has expressly disregarded the written laws governing the Pontifical States. Thus, he has expressly disobeyed his liege. When insolence is concerned, the safety of the Pontifical States is held above “Sovereign Privilege”; For the unity of the Church is essential under The Canon Law. Daniel VI, James II, Codex Iurius Canonici Danielus Pontifex, Second Edition Book 5, Title II (Rev. 1801). RELIEF SOUGHT: Primary Relief Sought: A preliminary injunction revoking the legal authorities of Ser Boris and Eduard, until the guilt of these parties is determined. This is chiefly to prevent further abuses of power from occurring. A preliminary injunction temporarily revoking the authority of the Ivorian military upon the lands of the Pontifical States. Nullification of the missive Bounty For Traitors Against Ivoria. The compulsory Abdication of Atticus keen from his post as Princeps of Ivoria and subsequent excommunication. Adequate issuance of punishment from the Pontifical States on all adherents to the recently published missive by Princeps Atticus Keen. Additional Requests: The Prosecution requests for a full protective order for all evidence pertaining to witness testimonies and affidavits to ensure the safety of such witnesses. The recent missive issued by Princeps Atticus Keen highlights his wrathful nature which if left unchecked, may incite further conflict within the Pontifical States and beyond. Justification for Relief: The aforementioned party, pursuant to their violations of canon law and the Canticle of Patience, should not be allowed to retain their offices; unrepentant criminals and sinners are not fit for the duties of leadership. The aforementioned party and their position in leadership within Ivoria and the Pontifical States may compromise the safety, security, and stability of Canondom. Furthermore, The safety of the witnesses, essential to the charges aforementioned, will be at continued risk if the court does not enact a protective order for the aforementioned witness. It is essential their testimony is heard, before they are criminally tried in the courts of Ivoria. PRAYER: In light of the foregoing, the prosecution respectfully prays that this Honorable Court may be pleased to: A preliminary injunction revoking the legal authorities of Ser Boris and Eduard, until the guilt of these parties is determined. This is chiefly to prevent further abuses of power from occurring. A preliminary injunction temporarily revoking the authority of the Ivorian military upon the lands of the Pontifical States. The compulsory Abdication of Atticus keen from his post as Princeps of Ivoria. The excommunication of Atticus Keen and all constitutients embedded within his plot to harm clerics of the Holy Mother Church and the Unity of the Holy Mother Church [Subject to decree of the High Pontiff]. Adequate issuance of punishment from the Pontifical States on all adherents to the recently published missive by Princeps Atticus Keen. SIGNATURE AND VERIFICATION: Signature of the Prosecutor(s): Ivan Cardinal Lotharia Alaric Bishop Altamirano Verification: We, the undersigned prosecutors, hereby affirm that the contents of this submission are true and correct to the best of our knowledge, information, and belief. PLACE: Holy See of Mount Lemon DATE: 14th of Horen’s Folly, 2012 A.D ON BEHALF OF: The Pontifical Prosecution

“My turn.”

In the rugged alpines of the westerlands, a lone Cardinal leads his horse by the reigns through the gates of Kretzen. Upon reaching the end of the walled and rustic city, he climbs atop his reliable steed to return south, back to his home. Whilst he did so, a certain tune came to his mind. A song he had heard not so long ago by the countryside of Petra. He began to hum the tune to pass the time amidst the long journey. A chuckle escaped his lips as the tune resonated within his mind. Who knew that a ballad regarding a Paladin would be quite so memorable? Alas, it was just music. And a good one in fact. Even as a man of the cloth, the Cardinal always enjoyed the wonders of good music; for regardless of its meaning, it gave him the needed warmth to continue his journey south to his homeland.

“Catch twenty-two.” Commented the Pontifical Prosecutor as he turned to his colleague within their office at the Holy See. His tone was calm. For the LORD knew any action required a reaction, no matter how visceral it would be, such as this document. “They’ve only reached three steps from five in the stairway to realization. Release the response.”

Fiery flames falter not. For their phantom pains linger upon Ivan’s skin. Yet they had persevered. The Cardinal lamented in disappointment at the fact that the demon lord known as REN was so close at their finger tips, only to vanish once more through its unholy chicanery of magic and mockery. Nevertheless, he was ready to give his blade for his brothers and sisters again once called upon. For they had won this battle, but the darktide never ceases in its onslaught.

A passerby notices the man plastering these replies to each missive. He took a quick read of its contents as he then lets out a soft whistle of disappointment. “If you are his lawyer then he has already lost. Your second paragraph contradicts the first my friend. It advocates for what you at first denounce.” The passerby fished in his pockets to produce three booklets: The constitution of the pontifical states and the first and second supplements. “This should help in your legal crusade.”

Issuance of Charge 8th of Tobias’s Bounty, 2011 “Thus the Lord was wroth with Godfrey and He spoke ‘Lo, you have been proud and called My work your own. Who clove the waters from the earth, and who created the Skies and the Void?’” (Gospel 7:20-22). ☨ “Not Keen enough.” ┏━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┓ Twice Insolent I Praise my insolence I speak above all I am above Heaven’s Jurisdiction I am superior to all Ignore GOD’s Vicar Ignore his Council Ignore their words For I was bold once So I shall be again They shall never catch me Fool them once shame on me Fool them twice Save me ┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛ 𖥞 IN THE NAME OF GOD, THE MOST OMNIPOTENT, THE ALL-POWERFUL, WE BEGIN. GOSPEL (7:16-26) 16 So the Lord saw that Godfrey went into strange lands. 17 He spoke the word of God, which was good. 18 But he also spoke of man’s perfection, and the foreigner was made to grovel before man in worship. 19 The world lived in terror of the Lord, and not in love. 20 Thus the Lord was wroth with Godfrey and He spoke 21 “Lo, you have been proud and called My work your own. 22 Who clove the waters from the earth, and who created the Skies and the Void? 23 Who breathed breath into the first man, and who named you the Son of Horen? 24 Will a pot rebuke its maker? 25 Will a father kneel before his son? I have made you and your kingdom.” 26 So Godfrey saw his error and begged forgiveness. Atticus Keen. A Princeps is not above Heaven’s jurisdiction. Remember that you reside upon Holy soil. You shall act in accordance with the supreme laws of the land. You were insolent once and we were merciful. We forgave you. Yet you took our mercy to your advantage. You began a second campaign of bold proportions. You refused to adhere to the statutes that govern the very realm that has granted you your home. No second chances. You are hereby charged by the Pontifical Prosecution for your violation of the constitution of the Pontifical States. Further details are enumerated in the petition below: IURISDICTIO CAELESTIS SUPER OMNES “Heaven's Jurisdiction is above all.” EN DÉU CONFIEM, Ivan Cardinal Lotharia Alaric Bishop Altamirano

Robert Ludovar reads the results of the race with a victorious gleam upon his irises. He glances to his snail, the one and only champion, Turboculosis the second. “Would vy look at that…Ea knew we were going to win!” The Ludovar offers his snail racing champion the finest cabbage for him to feast upon. But their journey is not over. For there were many more races to come.

Whilst upon his weekly venture to maintain the shrines of the southern lands, Ivan found the Lucienist thesis plastered upon one of them. He raised a brow as he read the work. However, as he did so, the Cardinal let out a grunt of disappointment. “He acknowledges that our faith is our history, it has been defined by the people from generation to generation. Then, he advocates for our faith to adapt to our society. Yet, in the same breath he fervently seeks to recreate the past, rejecting the present in the process.” He saw a paradoxical conundrum in this work. A fallacy of sorts. “So, what does he seek? To relive the past? Or rewrite the past and usher a new present? Both lead to the very dangers of shirk this author himself warns against.” Such is the dilemma for the Lucienist author and his adherents.

THE THIRTEENTH AND FINAL TABLET “We hear but we do not listen.” TRANSCRIBED BY IVAN CARDINAL LOTHARIA 15th of Sun's Smile, 140 B.A. ABSTRACT The Lothar Stones are marble engravings regarding life in the Balthalite Empire, otherwise known as Old Balian, dated somewhere between the fifth to seventh century. They are attributed to St. Lothar the Bannerlord, the final dynast of that ancient civilization. At least twelve of these stones are believed to be in existence, with each depicting the perspectives of Lothar and his countrymen on various topics. They are written in Old Balthalite, a script similar to non-Dragaari Flexio. SYNOPSIS Scholars have inferred that there are twelve tablets written during the ancient civilization. However, another tablet was recovered alongside the twelve tablets within the same expedition site. Evidence has shown that this tablet was written amidst the same time period as the other twelve were authored, yet, the words seem to be much more cryptic in nature. The writings engraved within the artifact seems to be different than the style of St. Lothar whilst the language has a mixture of Bathalite flexio in conjunction with Rudran and Rhenyari terminology. Many of the deciphered words used reveal that the author may have been a Rhenyari oracle or a priest, a contemporary amongst Lothar’s time, but his affiliation with the afore-mentioned Saint is left as a mystery. Nevertheless, its contents are intriguing. The tablet contains two poems, one at the beginning and another at the end. Both poems are seemingly connected to one another as if they are addressing each other. Betwixt the poems is an ominous lamentation about the end of the Bathalite civilization written in the style of a prophecy. The tablet is transcribed into standard common below: 𖥞 ┏━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┓ وایورن از اسمان | The Wyvern from the Skies Skies asunder His roars they fear The grey clouds swirl Whilst his eye appears His gaze falls upon the deepest hues Of her sapphire tides beckoning him near He bellows determined For all who could hear "My Queen, look to me! the distance is gone I am here, I am here, I am here, I am here!" ┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛ 𖥞 . Listen closely. Samedhra cries. Badhir laments. Mother Radaga taught us for naught. And Akritara’s wisdom reaches upon deaf years. Do you hear them? Our crime was when we took the sea and sky for granted. KHUDA was wroth but he did not see our transgression as an original sin. Yet, he knew that our folly of vanity would inhibit our obligations of humility. When HE sent down Badhir, his purpose was to contain the Saat Asmaan. Brash and full of life, Badhir was elated to follow the LORD’s orders. Thus, his body intertwined with the sky, holding it together as a firmament for our LORD. When HE sent down Samedhra, HIS instructions were clear. She was to contain the seas and tend to the creatures within. Calm and collected, she was ready to listen to HIM. Thus, she fused with the sea, duty-bound to uphold her oath to the LORD. Two Ferestes had their fates intertwined by KHUDA’s will. He knew what was to come, verily the LORD knows all things and things to be. The rain was enough to grow our crops. The waters were calm for us to sail and catch for sustenance. The snow upon our mountaintops were plentiful, yet moderate, to ensure their fair beauty. KHUDA had willed it, verily he was gentle, and Badhir and Samedhra were kind. We prospered with KHUDA’s blessings brought forth by the two Ferestes. But we did not listen. When KHUDA instructed us to leave the firmament, we grew hasty and impatient. As we grew, our egos grew with us. Ask your fathers, ask your grandmothers. They know the sin we were tainted with. Badhir and Samedhra were one, their oath to the LORD led to their affection for one another. We felt it during the rising tides and the lowland monsoons. As their affection grew, so did our gratitude to them. But our gratitude would soon grow to entitlement. Our beasts fattened, our treasury grew, and our minds were enlightened with knowledge upon knowledge with the blessings of KHUDA. But we soon became lax in our faith. Our affirmations of faith were delayed until forgotten. The call to prayers became quieter and quieter, until even the mightiest city of Sibilsgard barely even whispered the summons to the temples. Verily, our lost battles were a testament to our loss of faith. KHUDA showed us the signs. But we went against him, for we believed that we deserved to see through the firmament, to glimpse upon the Saat Asmaan before he deemed us ready. We built thirteen pillars in our thirteen cities. Under the orders of Beros, the pillars were built within thirteen days. Each pillar was to be high enough to reach the sky. We reached the peak of each pillar, the air was dense, yet we did not falter. Shaytaan whispered in the emperor’s ear. And in turn, he shouted the same orders to us. We were to fire our trebuchets and ballistae upon the sky. Badhir watched in horror as his own being cracked. We saw the thin lines form upon the firmament with each projectile launched towards his very being. Tears began to form as the clouds darkened, but we did not cease the relentless assault. Badhir would soon release the grief of his pain down upon us in the form of rain. Yet, we continued our assault. Samedhra watched from afar as her beloved’s tears caused ripples upon her sapphire waters. Her frightened gaze soon turned to anger as our onslaught upon Badhir continued. In tears, she begged the LORD to cease our madness as she saw our sinful pride devolve into a savage desire to reach the Saat Asmaan. Beros was led astray by Shaytaan, for he was convinced that if he had an audience with KHUDA, all the troubles of our people shall be washed away. Rather, we were washed away. KHUDA was wroth and the land rumbled. Our mightiest mountains to our north crumbled, and Samedhra came forth in the form of a leviathan, the tides followed behind her, washing away the crumbled mountains. I heard her tearful screams of revenge, and at the moment, the skies bellowed in a thunderous roar. Each of the thirteen pillars were struck down by thirteen flashes of lightning. And we all fell from grace. I was saved by a gentle wind, as soft as feathers, as I was brought down upon a lone mountain untouched by the LORD’s wrath. I was made to watch with horror as Badhir, in the form of a Wyvern, appeared through the cracked firmament, his mouth opening as a fiery gust of wind bellowed from his breath, laying waste to our marble structures. Samedhra soon followed from below with her roaring tides of waves, and within moments, Sibilsgard was washed away. I survived to witness it all. KHUDA wanted me to witness it. For I was the only soul who heard his warning. I was the only soul who heard Badhir’s laments and Samedhra’s cries. I was the only soul who listened and took HIS warnings to heart. I survived. I heard HIS voice when the land rumbled. I listened when HE bellowed, “KHĀTAM.” 𖥞 ┏━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┓ لویاتان از دریا | The Leviathan from the Sea Muffled roars She could barely hear Yet her watered eyes opened When his eye approached near She now heard the echoes They would become more clear She raised the tides Closer to her dear From blue to green Her happiness reared And then she felt it Closer to her ear His calls of arrival Which brought them both to tears she would sing in response "My king, Your presence I feel, I can see your tears, I am here, I am here, I am here, I am here!" ┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛ 𖥞 AFTERWORD Historical journals and records of the expeditions of the Old Bathalite civilization in Almaris showed evidentiary records of soil erosion upon the northern canyons. Extremely coarse sedimentary deposits showcase a geological history of that which the northern lands were once encompassed of mountains. Thus, it is possible that this tablet does indeed tell the true story of the fall of Sibilsgard. However, if such is true, then it is possible that either the author, or Lothar or his companions spread this warning to the remaining cities within the Bathalite civilization to lead them back to the right path. Yet, the collapse of the Bathalite civilization perhaps tells a different story. That the people had heard the warnings, but refused to heed them. LEGENDA TERMINI Badhir - An Angel whom the Bathalites believed was sent to uphold the firmament between the mortal plane and the Saat Asmaan. Samedhra - An Angel whom the Bathalites believed was sent to ensure the stability of the oceans within the mortal plane. Saat Asmaan - Seven skies. KHUDA - GOD Fereste - Angel Shaytaan - The Deceiver / Iblees Khātam - Finish / End / Stop

The Cardinal of Lotharia received the news whilst he returned south from another patrol at Camp Tatiyana. He signed the Lorraine instinctively as he then murmured, “Indeed to GOD we belong. And to HIM we return.” A gentle sigh escaped Ivan’s lips as he climbed atop his steed. His gaze went towards the tree of light still standing before the fort and then to the sky as a somber smile formed upon his lips. “Pious, till the end. Marius, may you be rewarded in the Kingdom of Heaven.”

Upon reading the new missive from the HFSR, little Robert would search endlessly through the public gardens in Nau Valdev to find the next big champion in snail racing. He was determined to WIN.

Ivan despises the unfaithful machinations of the Countess of Entswerp. However, what he despises even more are self-proclaimed "righteous" individuals like Atticus Keen who use the Holy Mother Church and the LORD's name to sow unneeded chaos within Church lands, rather than letting their Holy overlords handle the situation. Both vassals should be culled for their insolence.

In triangle ABC, the measure of ∠B is 90°, BC=16, and AC=20. Triangle DEF is similar to triangle ABC, where vertices D, E, and F correspond to vertices A, B, and C, respectively, and each side of triangle DEF is 13 the length of the corresponding side of triangle ABC. What is the value of sinF?

THE RESTORATION OF THE CROWN 19th of Godfrey’s Triumph, 136 B.A. “He left his throne with their blessing, and the eldest rose as a new king.” (Gospel, 4:15) ☨ “Trust in your people. For they will trust in the LORD as much as you trust in them.” 𖥞 ┏━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┓ La Clarària | The Clearing We navigate the tall grains Our vision becomes clear The rice fields are gone And we see what is near The flock follow behind me Their trust smite my fear Whilst the Shepherd before me Patiently guides us here As we reach the clearing We see the fair city we hold dear The tropical air greets us all And we erupt in cheer The Shepard now turns to me His lips curled to a smile ear to ear He speaks in his succinct words Words which we all hear “Now you guide them to the city They trust you to lead young Emir Stand tall as you take my place But remember one thing clear They have chosen you young Prince The ALMIGHTY answered their prayers For HE has witnessed your penance HE has witnessed your tears HE has witnessed your journey The path of redemption to which you adhere Ends at the tip of this crossroad For we have seen you become sincere But remember their trust young prince Look to them as they cheer Keep your promise to the flock For it is them who hold you dear.” ┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛ 𖥞 IN THE NAME OF GOD, THE MOST MERCIFUL, THE MOST BENEVOLENT, WE BEGIN. AUSPICE (3:4-5) 4 See, and there is a bridge of many colors, and marching forth from the Skies are the virtuous dead, and the wicked have been cast down from high places. 5 See, the World is changed, and the promise of Virtue is fulfilled. have reached the end of our current journey. I am honored by the patience our flock has given me amidst this eleven-year period. The Lotharian Regency was never a permanent measure, but one of temporary necessity to ensure the stability of the Kingdom. However, this chapter must come to a close for the realm. For I have seen the strides our people have taken to uplift our nation in redemption. A committee was to be formed by me amidst this regency to elect a new king after the abdication of Alexander II. However, I found it in my best judgment to let the people decide rather than allow a council of a few elites chosen by one man to decipher the direction of where the winds of change must blow. Thus, I waited for the commune to be established. The commune consists of the segnoria which are the entirety of the Crown’s peers, and the senate which is the body of representatives elected by the citizenry of the Kingdom of Balian. Both bodies of the commune were given a chance to choose any living individual amongst the family of Novellen from the line of Alexander II to become the heir to the nation. However, amidst this choice another door was open for the people. Perhaps a new regime of their choosing. All of which were possible to debate or introduce by the very citizens of the commune. But the people remained steadfast to virtue. They refused to let any ambitious individual rise above their station. Rather, their patience and trust was directed to one man. A man who was given a path of redemption to repent for the misdeeds he had committed during his brash younger years before full maturity. That man is John Casimir Baudoin. We have witnessed his journey, from prince to commoner, to warrior. Amidst his journey of penance, he refused to be addressed as royalty. He had spent eleven years in humble service to the nation, to Lotharia, and to Canondom. His efforts garnered him recognition in virtue amongst humanity. He offered his blade against the Xionists. He stood firm against the Unholy Darktide to protect both Canondom and the Holy Mother Church. He did all not for his own glory but for the cause of the ALMIGHTY. We have witnessed his devotion to the Canon Faith. His soul was guided by all back to the light. He would ask for confession after confession, guidance after guidance from me and all pious men of the cloth. Each of his requests all had an underlying theme: “How can I ask the LORD to grant my people his LIGHT?” His questions were answered. His confessions were heard. His requests for guidance were fulfilled. Amidst his path of penance, he chose rather to be motivated by a selfless intuition: to help his people. While we prayed for him, he prayed for us. The sign of his redemption came when I was told His Holiness had given John his blessing to wed Kathryn Virosi. The High Pontiff stated that he wished to reconcile John Casimir as soon as possible. Whilst I was amused, I gave the man my own three tests to assess his sincerity. He had passed each gracefully. After the third test, I gave him my own blessing to marry Kathryn Virosi. But the signs expanded further on the night of the segnoria meeting, when all peers unanimously and voluntarily declared their support for John Casimir. Thus, after the elections for the senate, I called the elected representatives to convene for their first task: elect a new leader to guide the nation. Unanimously and willfully, they all shouted John Casimir’s name. In an unprecedented moment for our nation, the people of Balian have elected their sovereign. Such a case may leave ripples within the realm. Perhaps the restored monarchy may invent a hybrid elective-primogeniture system in the future. But only the LORD knows for certain of what is on the horizon for the nation through the restored Crown’s intuition. Nevertheless, the commune has spoken, and with it the people. Thus, it is with great pride and acknowledgment that I declare the passing of the reigns of Balian to the King-Elect John Casimir. For he has been chosen by the will of the people, and I shall give my ascent to the people’s choice. However, let us remember that it is the Holy Mother Church which shall crown a Canonist Prince. And so, we adhere to this doctrine; For the mandate of heaven is bestowed through the Vicar of GOD. Thus, to adhere to proper spiritual procedure, John Casimir shall be known as King-Elect by name only. He shall not be called a Canonist Prince until he is crowned by the High Pontiff. Yet, I can wholeheartedly and contentedly say that my tenure as regent has ended. I shall now fully uphold my obligations through the Holy Mother Church as the people’s shepherd and shall remain as your Cardinal. For Lotharia must grow, and the flock must still be guided spiritually whilst the reigns of the nation are returned to Novellen d’Atrus. 𖥞 To my flock, I speak these words in truth: I, Cardinal Ivan of Lotharia, having had upheld my duty to protect the Crown of Balian as its regent, now willfully and with pride transfer the duty of the Nation’s sovereignty to John Casimir Baudoin of Novellen d’Atrus of the line of John I ‘The Founder’. 𖥞 EN DÉU CONFIEM, Ivan Cardinal Lotharia

A battle of immense magnitude, it was henceforth engraved within the Cardinal's mind. He had charged his steed alongside the Haeseni youth and soldiers. One of the youths who went by the name of Ivar Colborn sat behind him, ready to fight for the defense of his kingdom. All the youth had fervently insisted on travelling to Camp Tatiyana to protect the northern Haeseni border, for they refused to heed Ivan's objections. Nevertheless, they had charged alongside the Cardinal. Many were injured in the ensuing fight. Both the Cardinal and Holy Ser Theo were ready to sacrifice their life for the faithful of Haense. However, it was Theo who acted before him, ignoring Ivan's objections. Perhaps it was the LORD's plan to prevent Ivan from death. They had won, but at the cost of his dear friend's life. The aftermath was somber as the Cardinal evacuated many of the injured to the clinic. He was met with anger, blame, and many other words from the parents and families of the youth. "You will die alone." Said one in pure contempt and anger upon seeing the state of her brother, the heavily injured Ivar Colborn. Yet, the Cardinal remained silent in regret and guilt at the state of the brave Haeseni soldiers and youth who stepped forward to defend the Kingdom's borders. If his death was to come, he shall welcome it. For all who were close to him return to the LORD's kingdom above in the seven skies one by one. If he was to die alone, then very well. It is part of the ALMIGHTY's plan. If this was the test to his faith, he shall remain resolute in the face of the Unholy Darktide. Before returning back to the south, the Cardinal and Reronda returned to the now erected tree of light beside Camp Tatiyana. It was one last blessing from the LORD for the martyr. He stepped forward, touching the warm bark of the everlight tree. "Da. Save a place for me...camico." A gentle smile tugged at the corner of his lips. . . . "I am growing tired."