MunaZaldrizoti

Department of Civil Affairs THE OFFICE The Department of Civil Affairs, otherwise known as the Office of the Censor, serves as the source of all government documentation and archiving on behalf of both the Duana and the Crown. Their primary goal is to ensure a steady stream of information is kept and maintained for the public’s knowledge and consumption. This office also administers all elections within the Kingdom of Balian and works alongside the Royal Balianese Academy to develop culture and education across the realm. Exact details and information pertaining to both the Censor and the Department of Civil Affairs is also listed here. THE DUTIES The Censor of the Crown, sometimes called the Secretary of Civil Affairs, is the central figure of this office, the heart of all archiving and documentation within the Crown’s Duana. Their vital tasks include recording important diplomatic meetings and court sessions, pushing initiatives on government literacy, conducting a nationwide census, and overseeing government elections. Likewise, all announcements related to the Crown, including announcements of births and betrothals, shall be handled by the Censor. All this is done in an effort to provide transparency to the people of Balian and beyond. THE CENSOR’S ARCHIVES The Censor of the Crown is the custodian of the government's primary archive, known as Padron de la Academia. This is a tended listing of all important public missives, proclamations, and documents pertaining to both the government and the Crown. It likewise serves as a collection of all published works pertaining to culture, education, and realm development. Padron de la Academia - To be announced upon completion. THE CENSOR OF THE CROWN Secretary of Civil Affairs HRH, Princess Lydia Antheia, Countess of Caluzzo 4th Censor of the Crown, appointed by Amiratus Ledicort Vuiller (50 B.A. - present) [!] For information on the Censor’s work or inquiries regarding the Department of Civil Affairs, please send a bird or courier to the Duana or the Palatio Monterosa.

THE CONCIO ELECTION OF 50 B.A. Issued by the Office of the Censor, 30th of Godfrey’s Triumph, 50 B.A. __________________________________________________________________________________ To the citizens of Atrus, The time has come for the loyal citizens of Atrus to choose their representatives within the City Assembly. These elected officials shall serve for a period of 6 years and be a voice for the city’s residents. Please find below a ballot pertaining to the City Assembly Election of Atrus, dated for 50 BA, and submit it unto an election officer upon full completion. Voting shall conclude and be closed within the month of Peter’s Glory. Results shall be published thereafter. Ballot HIS ROYAL EXCELLENCY, Ledicort Vuiller, Amiratus of the Kingdom of Balian, Lord Seneschal of the Crown and Chief Minister of the Duana. HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, Princess Lydia Antheia, Countess of Caluzzo, Censor of the Crown

Lydia seemed entirely taken by surprise, though she'd grin as the reality settled in. "This is just the beginning..."

[!] A printed missive is pinned to city boards and around the various thoroughfares across all of Almaris. THE CROWN FORGEMASTER Seeking qualified applicants! It is the desire of His Royal Majesty, Alexander I, to search from both within the borders of his kingdom and across Almaris for a worthy individual skilled in the art of forging and smithing. All those wishing to apply for this position shall first be interviewed by the King or Her Royal Highness, Princess Lydia, who has been asked to aid in this search. Interviews shall take place within the Palatio Monterosa and will be followed by a brief tour of the Atrus smithy. The person who is deemed fit for this honor shall be named ‘Crown Forgemaster’ and will be given royal patronage as the official blacksmith to both the House of Novellen and the city of Atrus. This individual shall be tasked with the running of our city forge and given exclusive rights to its usage. They will likewise be entrusted with fashioning weaponry, armor, and other amenities for those within the kingdom who seek their commission alongside private requests made by members of the royal household. Upkeep of the forge shall also be overseen by the chosen Forgemaster, ensuring those who seek to use the forge publicly are greeted with finely-kept tools and a uniform workspace. Lastly, in times of conflict or greater need, the Forgemaster shall act as consultant to the Crown on matters of manufacturing the necessary equipment to arm and defend our guards and citizenry. For those interested parties, please send a bird to the Palatio Monterosa or attend to the city of Atrus to schedule an interview with the Crown! HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Alexander I, by the Grace of GOD, King of Balian, Viscount of Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca,Valens, Malenos and Ciavola, Lord of Atrus and Monterosa, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera. HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, Princess Lydia Antheia, Countess of Caluzzo

FEAST ATOP THE MONT The Royal Betrothal Dinner 11th of Owyn’s Flame, 48 BA To the nobles, citizens, and allies of Balian, On behalf of His Royal Highness, the Prince of Monterosa, the Court of the Palatio Monterosa hereby invites you to this preliminary celebration of the betrothal between Prince Hadrian Casimir and his intended, Princess Andromeda Ester of Ba’as. This gathering shall precede Their Highnesses tour of Almaris and wedding year, so thus it is held as a way for any well-wishers to impart upon them good fortune and gifts to aid them in their pre-union adventuring. This eve of feasting shall be commenced by speeches given by Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal to her elder brother and by Her Royal Highness, the Countess of Caluzzo to Princess Andromeda. As befits such an occasion, the finest showcase of Balianese cuisine shall be on full display, provided by the royal pantry and the kitchens of the Palatio Monterosa. Under the guidance of Her Royal Highness, Augustina Therosia, musicians ferried directly from the far-off lands of Ba’as itself shall be present to provide guests with exotic tunes originating from the Princess’ homeland. Invitations Are Extended To The Following: The United Kingdom of Aaun The Duel Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska The Kingdom of Norland The Grand Kingdom of Urguan The Vale of Nevaehlan The Silver State of Haelun’or The Principality of Nor’Asath The Crown of Amaethea HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, Prince Hadrian Casimir, Prince of Monterosa & Duke of Abretta HER HIGHNESS, Princess Andromeda Ester of Ba’as

Princess Lydia Novellen, despite often butting heads with her elder brother, seemed pleased with the formal announcement of his betrothal. She had found some particular things to like about the Rhenyari princess, thinking she might set Hadrian straight in the years to come.

THE ROYAL SUCCESSION OF BALIAN Regnum De Balian The Succession The CROWN OF BALIAN follows Absolute Cognatic Primogeniture, which means that the eldest child of the reigning monarch inherits the throne regardless of their gender. Males and Females are regarded as equal, afforded the same rights to inheritance. Upon the death of the present reigning monarch, the eldest child is the throne’s sole inheritor, followed by the heir’s own children in order of birth. Should the eldest child of the ruler predecease the monarch and sire no heirs of their body, the throne would then pass to the second-eldest child of the monarch and their heirs, in order of birth.. This would continue with each child and their heirs. Should the monarch have no living children or grandchildren, the throne would then pass to the monarch’s eldest sibling and their heirs. In the absence of any siblings, and their heirs, the throne would pass to the eldest uncle or aunt of the monarch, and their heirs. In the event that there are no living heirs to the throne of Balian, a succession council would be called to determine the future of the throne’s inheritance. Individuals are excluded from the succession if they already hold titles in a foreign realm or stand to inherit titles in a foreign realm. The monarch may likewise disqualify an individual from the succession by issuing a royal writ of disinheritance. All heirs to the throne claim descent from His Royal Majesty, King John I of Balian. The Children of the Crown The heirs of the monarch are viewed as integral members of the kingdom and the royal household, born with the purpose of representing the Crown and its interests. For this reason, they’re afforded lifetime titles befitting of their birth and place within the royal succession. The eldest child of the ruling monarch, upon their birth, is named the Prince or Princess of Monterosa, with the Duchy of Abretta as a subsidiary title. In the event of the heir’s death, these titles are passed onto the next heir, as per the succession listed above. Upon the ascension of the heir to the throne of Balian, these titles merge with the Crown until a subsequent heir is born or named by the new monarch. The eldest daughter of the ruling monarch, upon their birth, is named the Princess Royal of Balian, with the County of Rosemoor as a subsidiary title. These titles may only be passed onto the next eldest daughter of a monarch upon the death of the previous holder, ensuring no two Princesses Royal exist concurrently. If the heir to the throne is female, the next eldest daughter will receive these titles. As the Star of St. Lothar has four greater points, so too does the Crown afford four royal counties to be held by princes and princesses of the kingdom. These titles are chosen either by the monarch or by the individual child. They may be granted at birth or when the child reaches the age of majority. The Royal Counties: The County of Pavano The County of Caluzzo The County of Senna The County of Pontazuro These titles are held for the person’s lifetime. Upon their death, the title will revert to the Crown regardless of if the prince or princess have issue of their own body. It is likewise noted that princes or princesses holding these titles are not considered Peers of the Realm. Descendants of His Royal Majesty, Alexander I, may likewise use the name ‘de Atrus’ in lieu of using their royal surname, though they will still belong to the royal House of Novellen and shall be named as such upon all official and royal documents. The Royal Succession (As of 55 BA, listed until the 12th in line for the throne of Balian.) Current Monarch: His Royal Majesty, Adrian I, King of Balian 1. Her Royal Highness, Johanna Casimira, Princess of Monterosa & Duchess of Abretta (b. 1921) 2. His Royal Highness, Alexander Casimir, Count of Pontazuro (b. 1926) 3. Her Royal Highness, Sibyl Gwyneth, Countess of Senna (b. 1926) 4. His Royal Highness, Alexios Michael, Count of Pavano (b. 1897) 5. Her Royal Highness, Elena Casimira, Princess Royal of Balian and Countess of Rosemoor (b. 1901) 6. Her Royal Highness, Lydia Antheia, Countess of Caluzzo (b. 1902) 7. Her Royal Highness, Constantia Irene, Princess Imperia (b. 1861) 8. Her Royal Highness, Augustina Therosia, Dowager-Princess of Sedan, Countess-consort of Salia (b. 1863) 9. Her Ladyship, Marcella Josephine Novellen (b. 1886) 10. Her Ladyship, Matilda Vespira Novellen (b. 1886) 11. Her Ladyship, Francisca Sophia Novellen (b. 1888) 12. Her Ladyship, Mariya Elizabeth Novellen (b. 1892) * His Serene Highness, Robert Therosius, Prince of Sedan is excluded from the succession due to his holding of titles within the United Kingdom of Aaun. * His Highness, Frederick Louis de Joannes is excluded from the succession due to his holding titles within the Commonwealth of the Petra. * The children of His Royal Highness, Constantine Antonious, are excluded from the succession due to their standing as heirs to the Archduchy of the Petra.

The House of Novellen House Name: Novellen (House Novellen de Atrus) Date of Founding: 15th of Sun's Smile, 1753 House Founder(s): Anne I, Holy Orenian Empress | Joseph II, Holy Orenian Emperor Current Head of House: Adrian I, King of Balian Current Title(s): King of Balian, Viscount of Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca,Valens, Malenos, Goza and Ciavola, Lord of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, Warden of La Costa Rubinissima, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South List of Living Members: His Royal Majesty, Adrian I, King of Balian @ErikAzog Her Royal Majesty, Andromeda of Ba'as, Queen-consort of Balian @annanicole__ Her Royal Highness, Princess Johanna Casimira, Princess of Monterosa, Duchess of Abretta @MunaZaldrizoti His Royal Highness, Prince Alexander Casimir, Count of Pontazuro @VonAulus Her Royal Highness, Princess Sibyl Gywneth, Countess of Senna @HIGH_FIRE Her Royal Highness, Princess Eirene Daria, Countess of Caluzzo @Kholibrii His Royal Highness, Prince Alexios Michael, Count of Pavano @peachcool Her Royal Highness, Princess Elena Casimira, Princess Royal of Balian, Countess of Rosemoor @Madyyy Her Royal Highness, Princess Lydia Antheia, Countess of Caluzzo @MunaZaldrizoti Her Royal Highness, Princess Constantia Irene, Princess Imperia @PrettyCuteAnna Her Royal Highness, Princess Augustina Therosia, Dowager-Princess of Sedan, Countess-consort of Salia @annanicole__ Her Royal Highness, Princess Persephone Maxima @SapphirePool Notable Figures: Anne I, Holy Orenian Empress - Founded House Novellen and co-ruled alongside her husband, Joseph II. First regnant-female to rule over Oren. @frankdh Joseph II, Holy Orenian Emperor - Founded House Novellen and co-ruled alongside his wife, Anne I. @John Ivory Princess Elizabeth, Princess Imperial - An imperial Princess of the Holy Orenian Empire and Countess of Rosemoor. First female to be named Imperial Grandee and founder of the imperial Social Season. @Ivoreyy John VIII, Holy Orenian Emperor - Known to have maintained a mostly-peaceful rule after the death of his parents. @KosherZombie John I, King of Balian - An exiled prince of the Holy Orenian Empire, founder of both the Grand Duchy of Balian and the eventual Kingdom of Balian atop the Mont Monterosa. @Imperium Alexander I, King of Balian - The second King of Balian, Alexander held great martial prowess and was skilled in diplomacy. Maintaining peace in his own realm for the entirety of his reign, he lead the successful defense of Atrus, the kingdom's capital, against the undead lich-dragon Cloudbreaker. @Shmeepicus Notable Relic(s): Most relics belonging to and originating from the earlier decades of House Novellen were lost just prior to the ascension of Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor in 1849. These artifacts were said to have been smuggled out of New Providence by a servant loyal to the then-Princess Imperial, Josephine Augusta. Their whereabouts remain unknown. Any with information about their whereabouts will be given due honors and riches for their contributions in returning the lost treasures back to their rightful family. The Lothar Stones: A collection of holy tablets attributed to St. Lothar of Balian himself. These beacons of wisdom were either gifted by the princely rulers of Ba’as to King Alexander I in exchange for a royal betrothal between the king’s heir, Prince Hadrian Casimir, or found and translated via the work of the Agent-General Teodosio Cardinal Tyria. The Fang of Cloudbreaker: A bastard sword forged from dracanium, the rare alloy harvested from the skeletal remains of the dragon Cloudbreaker. It is believed to hold special properties, capable of being set alight with flame and unable to be extinguished by water or smothering. @Shmeepicus House History: The House of Novellen was born upon the union of Anne Augusta Helane, heiress-presumptive to the Holy Orenian Empire, and Joseph Clement de Sarkozy, Duke of Adria, in 1753. This formation of a new imperial house was a reflection of their eventual joint-rule, establishing a revered lineage that would last several generations. The reign of Anne I and Joseph II is widely considered one of the greatest examples of Empire in humanity’s long history. Anne’s respect for her people and dedication to their service, combined with Emperor Joseph’s skilled acumen in regards to law and governance proved formidable. Their complimentary styles of rule led to the strengthening of the Holy Orenian Empire, both in terms of martial strength and national identity. Anne died in 1800, leaving the widowed-Philip to pass alone years later in 1814. Their eldest son, John Charles, ascended to the imperial throne as John VIII. His rule was a continuation of his parent’s own, though it also began the gradual decline of imperial power. A successful soldier in his youth, Emperor John was far more interested in delegating business of the state to councilors and courtiers. However, his reign is also considered the final time Oren held unmatched supremacy that he oversaw and maintained. He died in 1837. Leaving behind no heirs of his body, the Emperor’s brother would ascend the throne as Philip II. Bearing the same name as a notorious emperor of the Johannian Age, many were wary of this fanatically-pious man now living in his twilight years. Despite the efforts of his councilors and children, particularly his daughter the Princess Imperial Josephine Augusta, the deterioration of the Petrine-era systems previously installed by his forebears was inevitable. Following the murder of his son and heir, Prince Philip Aurelian, the elderly Emperor was overthrown by his grandson, Prince Philip Amadeus, in what became known as ‘The Aster Revolution’. It is believed he died in 1849, rumored to have been thrown into a canal by rebellious lords. Philip III ascended to the throne following The Aster Revolution, ruling alongside his wife Anastasia vas Ruthern as co-rulers. Their reign came to an end in 1868, leading to the infamous conflict known as ‘The Brother’s War’, fought between the couple’s sons Peter IV and Prince Frederick. At this conflict’s conclusion, a great exodus from the ruins of the Holy Orenian Empire made way to the deserts of Almaris. The younger brother of Philip III, Prince John Casimir, founded a citadel amidst the sands that he named the Grand Duchy of Balian. It is said he followed the star of Saint Lothar to choose the location of his city, placing his sword within a rock that sat atop the dunes. Eventually, he elevated his growing demesne to a kingdom, crowning himself John I of Balian. He was beloved by his people, and died at the turn of the century, in 1900. His eldest son, Prince Alexandros Casimir, ascended the throne atop the Mont Monterosa as Alexander I. His reign oversaw further peacetime, increased diplomacy, and a dedication to cultural nourishment. He aided in the formation of the ‘Atrus Covenant’, a confederation of nations united against the undead dragon Cloudbreaker. Battling in the Siege of Atrus, his own capital city, the King felled the ancient beast alongside those fellow denizens of Almaris. He is also noted for the popularity of his children, who inherited his penchants for leadership and charisma. Passing in 1921, his son Hadrian Casimir was crowned 'Adrian I' and played host to the largest coronation ceremony in the realm's history. It was Adrian who guided his people to safety following the fall of Almaris, leading the Balianese to the newly-discovered realm of Aevos. There, he ordered the construction and establishment of the kingdom's new capital, Portoregne.

Lydia Novellen would be filled to the brim with excitement, this being the first wedding she might truly attend on her own within the kingdom. The youngest princess of Balian would begin plotting her gift to the happy couple, something extravagant to show her wealth and benevolence.

The youngest of the exiled Archduke's nieces, Lydia of Balian, would catch wind of the duel as word reached the Palatio Monterosa. The girl drew in a deep breath, imagining the worst outcome. Of course, he was her uncle, so she had to believe he might prevail and live his days in exile contented. But after Cloudbreaker's vicious siege, the princess knew that life was not as fanciful as she had previously believed. "Sir Vassilios...I wish to attend my uncle's duel."

Lydia would watch those unfamiliar faces mill about the square of Atrus, feeling some ounce of pity for their plight. Amidst the packing of her belongings in preparation for her wardship thereafter, the youth of Novellen spared a thought too for her uncle Constanz, who was still missing. She knew, deep down, that they would never see him again.

Princess Lydia of Balian was heartened and overjoyed by the invitation, though she had been expecting it after how often she and the older royal had spoken over the last few years. The youngest Novellen hurried off to show her sister and father, making an effort to withhold details of the nuptials from her eldest brother, Hadrian. This was a royal affair, after all, and she felt he still had many manners to learn!

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One of the youngest defenders, Princess Lydia of Balian, returned to the city of Atrus upon the next sunrise, intent on beginning the desert citadel's restoration. Once or twice, she heard the strange noises resounding from below, though she only kept thinking of the gilded bell that hung within the palace, entirely unharmed. How fate might have spared them, if the Great Sage had kept his promise to her.

Lydia Novellen would prepare herself, both for the memorial and the festivities that would follow. However, a certain solemnity was still present at the reminder that her home now sat in ruins. Aside her sat the bust of her grandsire, King John I, a valuable art piece whisked out of the Palatio Monterosa before the battle. The youngest child of King Alexander looked forward to the day in which she might return the statue to it's rightful pedestal.

Princess Lydia d'Atrus recovered within the confines of Renduzzo, the youth's body aching from the previous saint's day. Figures milled past, some familiar and some not, though she spared lingering thoughts for her father's vassals and loyal bannermen. If they could survive the aftermath of battle and loss, so too could she.

Karlotta Kortrevich seemed eager to support her mother's efforts in planning this festival, though was less enthused about being among the massive crowds such events would draw in. The youth would decide to coordinate a book to read during each festivity, a much more welcome distraction.

THE RIGHTEOUS VICTORY The Triumph over Cloudbreaker 10th of the Sun’s Smile, 41 BA To the leaders and warriors of the Atrus Covenant, The undead dragon Cloudbreaker has been defeated. Not by the hands of the few, but of the many descendants who answered our call to arms. Though Atrus lies in ruin, the side of the living continues on to see another day. It is the fortitude of those who manned our weaponry and did battle with the undead horde that saw our glorious Covenant to victory. The material wealth and comforts lost by our kingdom is nothing compared to the importance of life, a gift granted to us by GOD himself and secured by our united forces. It is GOD above that, in his righteous glory, has blessed the people of Balian, its King, and our allies with good fortune in this fight. It is to him and St. Lothar that we owe our gratitude and thanks. For this generation and generations to follow, we shall never forget that perseverance and comradery are sure to triumph over any and all unnatural evils. We cannot forget, however, the lives lost during this defense of our beloved city. They shall always live on in our hearts and memories, their legacy being that of unrivaled courage and unyielding strength. It is to them we owe our very lives, as well as those who survived to tell their tales. In the coming years, it is the wish of His Majesty to conduct various memorials and celebrations to commemorate this victory. We invite all members of The Atrus Covenant to attend and join in this well-deserved respite from war and turmoil. As we look towards the future, the known and the unknown, let us always remember that we defended our homeland of Almaris. We stared into the face of death and lifted our swords. We did not flee or cower, we stood strong and triumphed. We persisted, and so too shall we continue to persist. HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Alexander I, by the Grace of GOD, King of Balian, Viscount of Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca,Valens, Malenos and Ciavola, Lord of Atrus and Monterosa, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera. HIS ROYAL EXCELLENCY, Ledicort Vuiller, Amiratus of the Kingdom of Balian, Lord Seneschal of the Crown and Chief Minister of the Royal Duana.

Princess Lydia polished the golden bell gifted to her by the Great Sage, the pact signatories being read aloud to her by a maid. With a hum, the young Novellen pictured their impending victory over Cloudbreaker and the undead hoard. "Pater will be proud, this was all my idea!" The girl continued on for the rest of the afternoon, pestering any who might listen about how impressive and wise she was.

THE RIGHTEOUS SUMMIT Formation of ‘The Atrus Covenant’ 11th of the Snow’s Maiden, 111 SA To the noble and valiant leaders of Almaris, The time draws near for the city of Atrus and Kingdom of Balian to face the dragon menace known as Cloudbreaker. In these days and hours leading up to our great confrontation, we call upon all those who have pledged their swords and support to our righteous cause to join us within the walls of our desert citadel. A plan of defense will play an integral part in our triumphing over this heinous and abominable threat. With GOD and Saint Lothar watching over us and guiding our blades, we pursue this coming battle with the belief that the united forces of Almaris shall assuredly drive back this beast from whence it came. It is with these desires that we establish ‘The Atrus Covenant’, to mark both the occasion of this summit and to cement our united goal in staving off the onslaught of the undead Cloudbreaker and its minions. Should we prevail, history shall know that those within this covenant fought for the lives of our peoples and our homelands side by side. This summit of leaders shall be hosted within the Palati Monterosa, headed by His Royal Majesty, King Alexander I & His Royal Excellency, Amiratus Ledicort Vuiller. All leaders of their respective nations and settlements are encouraged to attend, though representatives for each sovereign are also welcome in their place. We ask that all attending individuals respect the purpose of this summit and keep any animosity towards other realms or leaders outside of this gathering in order to ensure the desired outcome. Formal invitations from the Palati Monterosa are addressed to the following nations and their leaders: The Forces of Humanity: The Dual-Kingdoms of Hanseti and Ruska @gusano The United Kingdom of Aaun @seannie The Kingdom of Norland @ichigomaster98 The Commonwealth of Petra @tilly @Eddywilson2 The Forces of Elvenkind: The Crown of Amaethea @AgentofDeath13 The Principality of Celia’nor @Cepheid The Principality of Nor’asath @ColonelKuehl1 The Silver State of Haelun’or @Samler The Forces of the Dwarves: The Grand Kingdom of Urguan @Legoboy7984 The Forces of the Orcs: The Iron Horde @Cloakedsphere The Forces of Almaris: The Domain of Vortice @Bethinwonderland The Atoll Grove @TwilightWolf HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Alexander I, by the Grace of GOD, King of Balian, Viscount of Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca,Valens, Malenos and Ciavola, Lord of Atrus and Monterosa, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera. HIS ROYAL EXCELLENCY, Ledicort Vuiller, Amiratus of the Kingdom of Balian, Lord Seneschal of the Crown and Chief Minister of the Royal Duana.

The Duke's ward, the quiet and reserved Reza Kovachev, read over the announcement as she felt some small stirring of enthusiasm within her. She prayed she might finally find more friends, to further draw her out of her loneliness. Until then, she placed the parchment aside and went to work at braiding the hair of the Duke's own daughter, Suzana.