Nooblius

Hajduk Veljko could not read, though unfortunately for his cortisol a more literate burgher of Belgrade was discussing this matter on the streets openly. Scandalized, Veljko ripped the papers from the burgher's hands, and went to the nearest Sarkozic nobleman he could find. Angrily pointing to the wrong section of the paper, Veljko let out a litany of expletives and accusations against the authors. "They call into question the loyalty of Adria!? Why, they cannot best Adria in any contest, so their best bet is slander; why must they insist on perpetuating this grudge? Do they have any vision beyond spite?" The hajduk ranted some more to the Sarkozic lordling, who was nodding his head politely so as to not exasperate the obviously insane raving woodsman. Not so slow as to not notice, Veljko grumbled some more as he departed, the crumpled copy of the paper in his tightened grasp. "Folly!"

Genuine question, have you bothered to ask anyone (including the person who emoted it, or anyone around them) why they use that symbol or why it is called that? If you did, you would be told that it's because it's the symbol used of the OSL from years ago, and that they one time ran a settlement or diocese called Rhodesia, and that since then players of all stripes have repeated the reference because that is the history on the server, and they exist within Roleplay. I don't know why they chose that. But I would point out the mere mention of Rhodesia does not exist as a hate symbol, and I think it is a bit of a disservice both to people being haphazardly accused AND to genuine victims of any sort of tyrannical IRL actions to call nothingburgers on minecraft hatecrimes out of a lack of scholarship and basic communication. - For the record, I think it's fair to have conversations about how war and factionalism of the server both IRP and OOCly can affect the ability to make narratives. We can have those conversations, and justify disagreeing with eachother without calling another fascists, or without condemning the other perspective at all. The unfortunate truth is that LOTC is a community ran game, without really any paid game design behind it, so of course the rules aren't perfect and are free to be criticized. But if you want something to be better, try to analyze the actual substance of the issue rather than just accusing people despite them doing nothing against the rules, but rather doing the things explicitly encouraged by the server history and a majority of the playerbase.

A Red Pilgrim sat upon a tree stump in beautiful Alduun's shadow. The Autumn Isle breeze brought serenity to this old monk after a lifetime of toil. A friend approached him, telling him of these dueling letters. Carandir shared his mind; I had always said, to all my detractors, that I would wager there not be a king or prince more than I who would hear their concerns, their accusations, and answer them. I alone, would listen to those who condemn me, for sorry fear of my own soul, and trust in the heart of the fleep; who well understands the virtue of compassion, better than a man of war with a broken heart. Some can say I had convinced them of my view. Some can say I had been convinced by their view. Some can say we understood another better, but disagreed; none can say they had heard and achieved nothing- except those too afraid to act. I need not remind you who belonged to each category; you know, friend.

"The Days of Olde..." a voice whispered, sounding both withered and youthful at the same time. The specter of Markus Marie Sarkozic watched over the next generation of Adrian heroes. He had fought tooth and nail to restore the dignity of Adria, alongside, no doubt, Euler patriots. No doubt did it haunt him in his last years a fear that he had not done enough, that his descendants were doomed. But with the youthful Eulers now settling Azuras, Markus had hope.

High Priest Carandir sits at a table by a window, looking out across Numenost the fair from a tower of the Temple Bastion Saint Caius. Long ago, the Clown King had set his place far in the wilderness, away from his imperial family, to serve as a solitary defense against the dark and as keeper of the flame. "The greatest political prudence is to ally yourself with the will of Aeradar, the King of Flame, our Lord GOD! What evils the world will set against you, even if you are to lose, as had the good Westerlands, shall be in the eternal plan of the Almighty Author, the Illuminating Flame," Carandir commented to another Adunian, a skeptic just as many others of the wisdom of the former Priest-King's political antics. "In truth, I had let anxiety into my heart, as to what would come of this episode. I wondered, well, it was not the first time the temple restored might be crushed in cunning intrigue- so my teacher taught me." A proud, nefarious smile came upon Carandir's expression, and all his shrewdness was lade bare for a fleeting, unguarded moment. "But, I suppose it would have been silly to think we, all of us, went through all that- just to give it up at the end. What were they thinking?"

The High Priest Carandir read the lengthy examination and admonishments within the letter with some trepidation. His hair was grayed now, already he had lived through so much. How he longed to pause in his trek, to walk the garden and smell the Lemons! The adunian would give maybe anything for it, for some peace. Not for fear- this he had lost long ago. No, but for weariness did he now long for the fight to stop, that people would trust the Temple and compromise. There was no harm to them- they were promised their safety. But providence had always ordered another way for him, and it seemed there would be far from any rest. There was work to do, and he was willing to do it, though admittedly less eager. Carandir recalled words he had spoken to his friend, not long ago. "Awake Fleeper! O' brother, o' teacher; you were not made to be a prisoner under the hill! The Lord GOD has raised you against all adversaries triumphant, he has put the brow of an emperor under your annointing oil; and it was not so that you may sleep then and there, before the job was done. One last triumph. Then, when it is done, may we rest with serenity."

APOSTOLIC LETTER OF THE SEE AT IDUNIA PENNED BY THE HIGH PRIEST CARANDIR I FOR RECONCILIATION OF THE TRUE FAITH TO PRESERVE THE DOGMA FOR CENTURIES I call to you, o’ great and holy empire; all who subject themselves to the True King of Flame, the Lord GOD; Listen! Hear the good news of the Kingdom of Heaven, of the Holy Empire of all Man. The foundation of this empire, unique to all empires, is a genuine profession of True Faith and submission to the Lord GOD as ultimate sovereign. The imperial conquest was done not in wanton ambition, but a rebuke of a princely enterprise to usurp and make demands of the priesthood. The empire exists not only of a political unification of man as succession to Godfrey, but a fulfillment of penance for the sin of Godfrey, which was tolerance to the veneration of Man in the place of GOD. This makes this empire uniquely holy, and a turning point within the history of the world; marking not only a new triumphant political era, but a new age of Man with renewed faith and mission. Therefore it is with great jubilation that the Temple of True Faith declares the first Council of Lemon Hill, to be held over the course of years for the reconciliation of the True Faith across many subjects. Each Doctrinal Subject shall consist as a Synod, containing within it topics for deliberation and study. The discussion of these topics shall be presided over by the High Priesthood or another priest granted an explicit dispensation to do so. The Synods shall conclude together at the final summit of the Ecumenical Council, whereupon final debates and decisions shall occur. [OOC: Final Summit on August 9th, 3 PM EST. For scheduling purposes, each Synod need not necessarily meet on live server, but shall nonetheless be a series of documented discussions and studies IRP. There may be events where discussions are held in character on live, or discussions may be on the forums, to be hashed out in finality at the final summit.] DOCTRINAL SUBJECTS OF THE COUNCIL OF LEMONS PROVIDENCE History of the Realms Doctrinal Development Study DOGMA Parameters of Holy Law An Ecumenical Creed HIERARCHY Priesthood and Episcopate Diaconate and Laity Magisterium and High Priesthood SACRIFICE Examination of Ritual Sacramental Orders Those wishing to contribute to the Synods are advised to communicate interest to the High Priesthood, by letter or otherwise, or to the doctrinal officers Bishop Alexios or Father Avartagh. It is encouraged to write lengthy, verbose dissertations on the subjects, and as well for subjects with enough interest for sessions to be hosted within the dioceses (presided by the High Priesthood or any priest explicitly charged by them to preside). I. PROVIDENCE A theological study of the history of Mankind as the Providence of the Creator, and reconciliation of the Holy Scrolls as interpreted and translated throughout the ages. That the Lord GOD is held first before all principles, and that He is the architect of history demands that we subject ourselves to true history, rather than suppress or hide from it ‘less we condemn ourselves as a false faith. COUNCIL RESOLUTION Composition of New Chronicles The goal of this synod is to lay the groundwork for the composition of new chronicles so that there may be more education of history and the promotion of Wisdom which is the fruit of Horen’s tribe. These Chronicles can stand then as a testament to the eternal designs of the Creator for history, and a source from which future generations may more easily connect with this mark of GOD. SESSION I.I History of the Realms The identification of Oren and its greater tribes as they march throughout history is a key object of study, for by both the scrolls and natural theology we know the significance that moves with the temporal majesty which commands mortal men, that the Lord GOD does not raise up leaders wicked nor goodly without greater reason. So we are compelled to understand Oren, the tribes which have composed it across history, and also the movement of brother tribes of elves, dwarves and orcs. SESSION I.II Study of Doctrinal History The ancient history in which the Scrolls came about is required to fully understand their nature, as well as the view of the scrolls and other doctrinal subjects across history. This is specifically important for the later books of Gospel and the visions of Auspice, which have elements that have been a source of contention for centuries. As well, we must study the history of their translation and interpretation, for since High Pontiff James II there has not been debate of their translation, despite James himself calling for more interpretation. Only the criminally corrupt benefit from a lack of education on the development of the faith over the centuries. II. DOGMA The term Dogma herein refers to the second most conceivably narrow term for the holy truth of GOD (only ever more narrow would be that He is Singular, Almighty, Most-Merciful and the Creator Lord GOD). Whilst wider is doctrine, which may be discussed and debated, and wider yet is teaching, which perhaps must be obeyed even if privately disagreed with, there is the narrow and precise Dogma which serves as foundation for all serious thought. Dogma, which unites the faith even in its various views as the indisputable, plain and holy truths revealed directly by the Lord GOD or obviously discerned from His hand. COUNCIL RESOLUTION Promulgation of the Foundation of Holy Law The goal of this synod is to draft up and publish the new foundations of Holy Law, so that future synods may build upon and flesh out their every intimate detail with precision and confidence. SESSION II.I Parameters of Holy Law In recognition of the universal admission that the “Canon Law” was greatly flawed, by all sects and circles within the clergy, it is required that the entirety of the Temple come together for a deliberate discussion on both the fruits and venoms of the law. The role of Holy Law must be precisely understood, its relation to the broader authority of the Temple, its relation to civil law, and the scope of its prescriptions. Though we profess a unity of faith, we do not fall into err to think all Mankind uniform, and recognize that vocations are varied, not just on the individual but the community, and we the temple must rightly fear for tyrannizing the unique vocation of a tribe, and how they may constitute their own law within the Holy Law. SESSION II.II An Ecumenical Creed As the foremost foundation of the Holy Law and Dogma, a creed must be established which states all dogmatic matters of the faith. This does not replace the scrolls, so cannot contain all Wisdom of the scrolls or wider apostolic traditions and teachings; but we must have a simple source to serve as the cornerstone for all teachings, that which cannot be compromised, so that the faith may be kept unified even in its diverse tribes and vocations. III. HIERARCHY Those with any degree of critical eye for the typical standing of the clergy throughout history would observe a consistent concern of apathy and lack of action for an institution so central to Horen’s Covenant. In this era of the reformation of mankind, the clergy shall endeavor to renew its mission for the ministering of the tribes. COUNCIL RESOLUTION Reformation of the Ecclesiastical Offices The goal of this synod is to create a new standard for the hierarchy of the temple which integrates it into the Holy Empire, organizes efforts and stands against the whims of time. SESSION III.I Priesthood and Episcopate For too long have the clergy been content to allow their fellows to remain mere celebrants of the occasional ceremony and vague ministers of spiritual hierarchy. The Priesthood is no minor vocation, and it has become evident that the typical structure of clergy has made it so the priest who actively ministers to his flock, who aids the Temple in its directives, and performs actual worship to the Creator is an exception rather than the rule. Central to adapting the priesthood to an active duty rather than a passive retirement is a reformation of the Episcopate to organize duties and tasks. SESSION III.II Diaconate and Laity In the time of a Holy Empire and resurgence of the faith, Wisdom must extend beyond the Priesthood. The Temple must become intimately integrated with the Empire. We take our lesson from the Owynists, who none would dispute kept their faith vigorously and with zeal to the point of becoming a model for their detractors to copy; all as a primarily laity organization. The Synod must discern the role of the laity in the Temple, and as well contemplate a renewed diaconate to best integrate into the mission of the Holy Empire. SESSION III.III Magisterium and High Priesthood The Magisterium has replaced the Curia and College of Cardinals as the highest doctrinal authoritative body. This is not just for defining doctrine but discerning its implementation, and providing counsel and officers to Temple leadership for decisions with spiritual aspects. What specific criteria must exist for this body? How should they elect the successors of the High Priesthood? The High Priesthood itself is the succession of Clement and Evaristus, headed by the elected Supreme Pontiff (not dissimilar to the Chancellor of the old Curia). Must both members be elected? Should the High Priesthood consist of other major archbishops and seats of ecclesiastical authority? The Synod must answer these questions whilst avoiding the temptations of political footholes. IV. SACRIFICE In ages past, it was not uncommon to offer up sacrifices to the Lord our GOD. Verily, our righteous ancestor Horen is said to have offered up burnt sacrifices as a pleasing aroma to the Lord. The purpose of sacrifice is to offer oneself up, be it through a symbol or through the works of our own hands. Often these sacrifices are burned at an altar, things that are valued by the concelebrant, such as livestock, food, or treasure. Sometimes these sacrifices are experienced, taking on a burdensome task for the goodness of another, or perhaps for no obvious external good save for the offering up to GOD. For the Lord surely looks upon the willing sacrifices of the work of his hands and pours out his mercy and love accordingly. It is therefore, in this continued age of sin and without a mechanism for the outpouring of divine mercy and grace, necessary and reasonable that this ancient tradition be revived and understood so that we may become closer to the Lord our GOD. COUNCIL RESOLUTION Rejuvenation of Sacrament The goal of this synod is to both study the importance of sacrifice, of rituals, and of the sacraments and also to find within the revelations of GOD the foundations by which we may order priests again to do sacrifice and ritual, fulfilling their truest duty towards spiritual matters, towards GOD rather than ministers of worldly affairs. SESSION IV.I Examination of Ritual The first task is understanding this often overlooked aspect of the faith is a rigorous study of all historical rituals, habits of sacrifice, and sacraments, as well as a theological examination of the substantive role of sacrifice within the faith. The Owynist line of thought may prove of great importance, not only for it was Owyn who was the mortal founder of the Priesthood, but because the Owynists in reverence to this significance placed a heavy emphasis on sacrifice. It must be properly understood the role of a priest within enacting sacrifice to the Lord our GOD. SESSION IV.II Sacramental Orders Imperative for a new age of renewed True Faith is the actionable testimony of devotion, the substantive worship that yields legitimate fruits beyond the mere profession. Horen was not ordained by GOD for his ability to speak well of Him, but for piety. A priest is more than a spiritual therapist, and it is important not only that we begin to take seriously the vocation but renew a mission of liturgy and ritual which has genuine effect for the uplifting of souls to the Skies and proper adoration for the eternal glory of GOD. D E V S ✠ M A G N V S

"A well written letter, deserving of a proper answer." "I shall seek out this Father Drusco- I sense a fire in his Spirit." An old, disheveled shell of Anorhil departs Lemon Hill.

EDICT OF IDUNIA The twenty-first year after the fall of the holiest city, the Lord’s Aengul Artifai descended before Harren and spoke with him. The Aengul said “Harren, you are chosen for the vocation of your father. Come, and receive the Lord’s prophecy.” Book of Scattering, 31 - 32 In former days, Harren son of Horen had left the Grotto of Gamesh thrice. Delayed, distracted, denied; Harren had chosen instead a life enslaved to his temptations. So it was that Artifai was unable to seal the Covenant of Harren, and it remained broken and unkept. This Covenant was no meager thing, but the quest of the first heirs of Horen, to serve as a guiding flame for all the scattered tribes. A priestly vocation, a princely vocation; to be the path forward, the model. Where Harren was called to shepherd the tribes, he shared in grave sin by the Malinites. Where Harren was called to establish the Temple, he laid brick and stone over the Grotto of Gamesh. Where Harren was called to command his brothers by True Faith, he slain Godwin and ambushed Joren. So it was that the Holy City, Idunia, and all the tribes of Horen were desecrated, and thereafter scattered by the sin of Owyn. Though Godwin’s successors would establish kingdoms in the middle regions of men, they were in covenant with dragons, not angels, and the fullness of Horen’s mission remained unbroken. This was especially true of the tribe of Harren, whose descendents apostatized and were enthralled to pagan gods. For over a milenia the Adunians remained lessened in dignity, and even at the heights of the Elendil dynasty their kingdom never reached the glory of the Godwinite kingdoms or their own ancestral homeland. Throughout their history faithful stewards and priests made attempts to renew Idunia in righteousness, such as Artorus Elendil who in Aegis led a great conversion to the True Faith. But all attempts of redemption met the same doomed fate; the Tribe of Harren would reject their legacy. The Harrenites rebelled, the Harrenites rejected the faith, the Harrenites failed. This theme marched through history until Uther Pendragon, student of the steward John Marsyr, would go on to lead a movement of hedgeknights who departed their pagan tribes or otherwise fallen past to pursue a righteous quest. Uther’s circle rejoined humanity in the heartlands, finding service in the Heartland Wars of Almaris which concluded with the dissolution of the Novellen Empire (playing no small part in the endeavor). Thereafter, he was offered many key plots of land- but chose instead to take his retinue into the Western lands. Settled in the haunted Barrowmarches, his fiefdom was raised in humble service as a forward bastion of humanity to steward the dangerous borders beyond the faith’s command in the east. The knights of Barrowton became exemplar lay-soldiers of the Church, cooperating with Cardinal Viktor to oppose the drake-cults of the middlelands and studying the teachings of Blessed Padre Toni. After years of proven service, Uther was recognized as King of the Adunians, steward of an exilic legacy and thus the house of Arthalion was founded, thereafter moving to Aevos to carry its newly anointed banner forward. Conquering the arch which stood at the crossroads central to Aevos, Númendil became a key steward for the Church, recognized officially during the tenure of Caius-Brandt as an exemplar realm of Virtue and Spirit. In the lattermost days of Deunoro’s pontificate, it was Númendil which hosted the talks and their key mediation to bring peace to Aevos, and thereafter the Adunians and Petra whose decisive support for the Church avoided schism at the hands of the Godwinites. During the tenure of his High Holiness Harrentzadek, the Prince of Númendil began his ministry for the preservation of the Temple and the stewardship of the Pontifical States, organizing the allies, policies and politics of the Curia as well as becoming a stalwart theologian to bolster the Temple’s authority. Notable families such as the Glennmaers and Vourkehardts were crucial for the support behind the throne, lending great strength within Númendil to secure its own position to aid the Temple. At the tumultuous occasion of the renewed Schism War, Númendil and Burgundy remained the last two faithful thrones, preserving the priesthood, restoring the Temple and finally ending the Hyperwar. A DREAM OF IDUNIA RESTORED “So I bless you, Anorhil, I bless you in this endeavor, and I will crown you King Harren, and your court shall be Harren’s Court, and you shall dream-still of the Holy City, and of the Angels who together in their loneliness exalt Him.” High Priest Leviticus, spoken within the Temple Bastion Saint King Caius circa 1990. So it was that under the Blood Meridian a pilgrimage marched through the corridors of Aevos, and under the stars of the fierce north Anorhil was anointed with the quest to fulfill the quest of his predecessors and renew the Covenant of Harren; Idunia must be in exile no more, and Harren must reclaim his vocation. The Creator, in his eternal providence, often ordains a balance. Debt owed shall be repaid, however unwillingly, and measure for measure all must be either redeemed or punished. So too the sins of Harren, for each of the trespasses of his ancient armies, the Númenedain have repaid and set even the debt of their forefather. Where Harren had slain Godwin upon his throne, now he has rebuked Godwin’s Heresy and enthroned Godfrey. Where Harren had ambushed Joren within his gate, now he has rebuked Joren and seen Edel purified. Where Harren had let humanity scatter for centuries, now the tribes of faithful declare a renewed Mission. Now it is done, and the dominion of the White Throne extends well beyond the royal legacy of Arthalion, which has in stewarding the Adunian Exile elevated not only their kingdom, but also restored the legacy of all the Tribe of Harren; the Apostolic Kingdom of Idunia triumphant. In consideration of this fulfillment, it is hereby entered into Númendil Law; I. The Kingdom of Númendil is consecrated as a Holy Kingdom and true successor of Idunia of Old, subject to the King of Flame the Singular, Most-Merciful and Almighty Creator, Aeradar the Lord GOD, and His Holy Command. The Kingdom of Númendil, though ruled chiefly by the Númenedain, shall now rule over all the true Tribe of Harren, and as the Tribe of Harren forever maintain a special vocation in service to the Flame. II. The Tribe of Harren shall take a national mission for the reordering of all the world to the service of the Flame; to meet the elements fairy and fantastical, to confront the drake and sorcerer, to set the stone and verdure all in honor of the angelic court of the Seven Skies. III. A throne for a throne! By the sacrifice of the whole circle of the world, the White Throne is reconsecrated as the successor seat of Harren and his Covenant; the Sovereign of the Númenaranyë shall reign as both King of Adunians and High Priest of the True Faith, the Apostolic King of Idunia, steward of the Tribe of Harren and servant of Aeradar. The territory of the royal house Arthalion shall remain dubbed the Númenaranyë and the Kingdom of Númendil. IV. Confirmed by the trials of the Path of Owyn and his extensive service to the mission of Harren’s Covenant, Argelion Zôrzagar Anorion is declared through his princely vocation as Vicar of the Apostolic King, and Seneschal of Idunia. Tested in flame, proven in faith, the Crown Prince shall administer the Númenaranyë in shared trust and vision of his Pious Majesty, and fully invested to wield all authority of the throne. V. The Seneschal of Idunia, invested with command over the Harren Court, shall by the cooperation of the High Chancellor Athaenis Vourkehardt see to the orchestration of meetings with every master and lord sword in service to the White Throne, to discuss their vocation and place within Idunia so that appropriate measures be made to secure their prosperity and fulfillment of the national mission. This shall culminate in a celebrated Harrentide and renewal of oaths at the first restored Harren Court. His Pious Majesty, Tar-Anorhil Carandir Antonius Caranethion Harren Arthalion, by the Blessings of Aeradar, Apostolic King of Idunia, High Priest of the Temple of the True Faith, Successor of Saint Clement, Chief of the Númenedain and the Tribe of Harren, Master of the Sharadûn, Templar Justiciar of Saint Michael the Archangel, Knight of the Realm, Protector of the Adunians and the True Faith.

I am of the belief the best thing that can be done is to add to the server policy page about metaplay guidelines about what is acceptable and unnacceptable, as well as some sort of proactivity about discouraging it, and encouraging better systems. maybe meetings between realms and staff to talk about state of server regularly to at least have communication (even if arguments). realm mechanics should serve the OOC purpose of administration, and match RP not dictate RP. I think it's become weird how there has been repeatedly this map buzzwords use to replace PRO, without any just codified way of expressing a RP reality. On the flipside, recent attempts of implementation of this have been odd. Overall though, the entire system should be redone. Were it up to me, and we could have anything coded- I would have it based around RP hubs / settlements and have vassalization and such be entirely an RP structure, not an OOC system of control. staff generally do a good job, i think, these days. I've been on server for a bit and have witnessed a lot worse; outright abuse. Admins banning people purely, unironically, for ban reason of being annoying. even when i will argue about certain ST or Mod verdicts, I recognize that this staff is way better maintained that the server historically was. I think the biggest thing I'd want to see is genuine searching for better alternatives for systems that are known stressors, as opposed to continuing to do the same thing. EX; Warclaims, nations, etc. I feel like an attempt isn't discord sucks but it alone isn't the issue- it's people being cliqueish and encouraging a ton of OOC-RP bleed. People should be more serious about discouraging that overlap, as it really does grow to crazy levels from multiple sides. I won't pretend im perfect. lore apparatus is much older than most of the team, and yes frankly in many ways it sucks but most complaints and alternative visions are worse. Just like other systems, I would just appreciate people don't be so protective of stagnancy- but a lot of lore can be done PLAYER side. If anything, I'd just want players and groups more empowered to operate their own interactions with lore. regarding hate speech, I think as jihny said harassment should be seriously curtailed- but people playing an antagonistic character shouldn't automatically be assumed to mean it OOCly. I think we could give people better guidance on that if someone is going to RP being antagonistic, to avoid things which are particularly provoking subjects (mature, or just otherwise controversial and not worth weight it brings to RP) and to also explicitly showcase the flaws of their character, and make it clear they are flaws. My dwarf was an insane violent zealot- and I roleplayed quite clearly that his zealous nature was both good in his passion for his people but also evil and wicked in its enabling of wicked deeds for a cultish goal.

sorry guys wrong account meant to say this on my main. plz void To be honest, I actually feel a great deal of shame that so many people think so lowly of my conduct. I used to take great pride of how I conducted myself on server, and that I could prosecute a war without really feeling at odds with any side OOCly but that has become less true since I entered humanity. Maybe the expectations were different, maybe I changed how I acted, I'm not really sure. I definitely have a temper at times and can get resentful over folks who I know are bad-talking me, and I bad talk back (which isn't justified). I can get very upset if I perceive someone to be a hypocrite, even if that perception is wrong. I've MALDed before, certainly. I am genuinely sorry that there are people that feel like I hate them and their community, or target them, or anything like that. I really don't take the game THAT seriously, and would much rather be friends with folks I argue with (unless they're a creep or militantly hateful person, obviously). My DMs are open if anyone ever has criticisms or concerns. What I do know is that every action my character took is rooted in RP, and wasn't coordinated OOCly.Frankly, every conspiracy and scheme had an hour where it was orchestrated IRP. I think quite a few folks in Numendil can attest to fact they had been witness to much of that Roleplay, especially those in Anorhil's closer government circle. Yes, there are OOC conversations about RP. There are theories about what will work, paranoia about what we think other people might be doing. This always gets heightened in the buildup to a war; but I think what people misunderstand is that isn't what's against the rules. Nobody is prosecuted for discussing in their group chat how to promote activity, or what odds they think they have for winning a war. People aren't even prosecuted for discussing what they think increases the chances of winning, even if frowned upon. All bans have been for the reason of people orchestrating OOC plots to predetermine RP, avoid RP, exploit OOC connections, otherwise undermine RP or being in the know about a scheme of such nature and keeping it under wraps. I agree there should be written out guidelines on Metaplay, and I am frustrated there aren't. I had approached an admin asking if it would be a good idea for NLs to meet to discuss that and maybe even help draft up something after I read Toffee's excellent post, and that admin told me that the administration had already started on a draft of elaborated guidelines. I guess it falls by the wayside when dealing with next map, banning creeps, etc; which is understandable, but still frustrating. I really wish that we had initiatives for NLs + RP leaders to communicate with eachother more and keep things a little less heated. Maybe players can take this initiative ourselves.

The Harrenite Lord frowned as he read over the missive, and recalled his conversation with the Patriarch about it. "Did I not warn against this course of action? No plan, no system, no method!" He shook his head, and returned to his own business- making note to instruct his chancellor to send some letters.

SETTLEMENT OF HOUSE COLBORN In the former days of the world, the Northerners came down from the mountains as a multitude of tribes. Among them, the Adunians and Scyflings had once lived together as allies. Now centuries have passed since the time of Old Adunia, and the scions of Saint Carolus find themselves sent again into the fellowship of the Tribe of Harren. With a shared cultural commitment to the VIRTUE and SPIRIT, the House Colborn is invited to settle within the Númenaranyë whilst they discern the future of their tribe. Tar-Anorhil Carandir The House of Colborn and the Scyfling people are grateful and honoured to have found a home so respectful of their culture. In addition, we also look forward to working with the Radiant Guard and the people of Númendil in the endless battle against the Darkness that persists throughout the realms of descendants. Acelia Irena Colborn I. The Scyflings of House Colborn shall remain rights to reside in their western lodging and the surrounding territory under the dominion of Númenaranyë. II. House Colborn shall take on the quest to consecrate that territory to Owyn’s Purity and the Mercyflame. III. House Colborn shall forfeit the noble dignity they had within Haense, to be re-earned through their quest to consecrate the land and aid the Crusade against Mordring and other enemies of GOD. IV. That their noble dignity is revoked, the large walls of their keep shall be torn down so that their tower may not be so lofty and grand. Instead the Colborns and Scyflings with them shall remain as pilgrims and crusaders humbled in their quest. V. Insofar as the keep is a military outpost, it shall fall under command of the Radiant Guard until such a day that the House Colborn succeed in the quest. VI. After a period of four years of questing, the House of Colborn shall be granted the chance to declare their oaths to the Apostolic King of Idunia. If successful in their campaign and having found fellowship among the Tribe of Númenedain, they shall be granted the rights to their land once more and a path to ennoblement. VII. At such a time that House Colborn and a great host of Scyflings have made a commitment to Númendil and not before then, new oaths in honor of the ancient tradition of Saint Carolus of Carrenhall shall be drafted pertaining to Slesvik. IN NOMINE DEI His Pious Majesty, Anorhil Carandir Antonius Caranethion Harren Arthalion, by the Grace of GOD, Apostolic King of Idunia, Seneschal of the True Faith, Chief of the Númenedain and the Tribe of Harren, Master of the Sharadûn, Templar Justiciar of Saint Michael the Archangel, Knight of the Realm, Protector of the Adunians and the True Faith. THE MOST HONORABLE, ACELIA IRENA COLBORN, Matriarch of Colborn, Protector and Chieftan of the Scyflings THE MOST HONORABLE, CALIOPE MARIYA COLBORN, Matriarch of Colborn, Protector and Chieftan-Consort of the Scyflings

SURRENDER OF HYSPIA Hyspia had been stalwart allies of the Church and Númendil under Xiomara. She had been a stalwart supporter of the temple in all matters asked of. She had been offered unconditional support against the Krugim, but had advocated for peace instead; and peace was brought about, negotiated by representatives of the Church. Thereafter, once her territorial integrity was assured, Xiomara sought out her final ambition; that after raising up Hyspia to such prosperity to rival royals, that it may have the royal dignity. But she would be the last Queen of Hyspia, for her successors immediately betrayed this fellowship; instigating war with the Krugim, entertaining the schemes of Hanseti-Ruska, and declaring opposition to the Temple which had so recently been its close companion. Countless Hyspians have since rebuked this action, though aided their leader Amarantha in her inherently damned venture. One such was Isidoro, who had sought a plan of exit for his tribe from the war. This plan could not erase the necessary consequences of treachery, however; the Krugim were hellbent on pressing now their claim that they had already tempered twice before. Their temper had run out. The Church and what allies it had would neither swear to protect a people they had already sworn to, only to be previously betrayed by; there would need to be exodus. The Hyspian people were released of their oaths, and free to scatter. Isidoro negotiated this surrender of Amarantha, and for the refuge of whatever remained of the tribe that wished to follow Isidoro. I. The State of Hyspia shall surrender totally to the Holy League, admitting defeat and wrongdoing in the war, and the guilt of having broken the Peace of the Sands promulgated short years beforehand. II. Xiomara shall be the first and last coronated Queen of Hyspia, Amarantha having never been crowned, and Hyspia’s royal status declared defunct. III. Hyspia shall pay the debt owed to the Horde from the broken treaty (the sum of 8000 minas), and depart from the territory it once ruled, the territory to be governed hereafter by the Horde. IV. Hyspia shall allow the Horde to cut off the right hands of all who were involved in the murder of Grommash. V. Hyspia shall forfeit any claim to the title of Protector or Defender of the Farfolk, to be hereafter observed as the dignity of the Shugo of Koyo-Kuni. VI. Hyspia’s remaining titles shall all be placed into abeyance, any may be petitioned for restoration from any higher lord. VII. Hyspia shall return the stolen Uncle-O’s Records tower to Koyo-Kuni brick by brick to Jennyland, and the giraffes of Hyspia will be relocated to the Koyo-Kuni Safari Zone and Uncle-O Wildlife Sanctuary. VIII. Hyspia shall receive a parcel of land for a village or refugee camp within Númendil, and to be under their protection and dominion. IX. The Horde shall give Hyspia two years to relocate out of their current lands without harassment. IN NOMINE DEI, His Pious Majesty, Anorhil Carandir Antonius Caranethion Harren Arthalion, by the Grace of GOD, Apostolic King of Idunia, Seneschal of the Temple, Chief of the Númenedain and the Tribe of Harren, Master of the Sharadûn, Templar Justiciar of Saint Michael the Archangel, Knight of the Realm, Protector of the Adunians and the True Faith. The Most Righteous, His Eminence the Lector-Cardinal, Enrique Cardinal Du Loc-Altamirano Piñieda, Vice-Premier of the Pontifical States, Commandant of the Pontifical Guard, Justice of the High Court, Border Czar of Numendil and the Pontifical States, Knight of Barrowton, Lector of Owyn, and Last of the Santegians. SHUGO OJŌ-SAMA Ugokoyama Atsuko the Iron Lady, Legendary Sanbushi, Yōbushi of Machiman, Mother of the Land of the Scattered Sun and DEFENDER OF THE FARFOLK Isidoro Lucero de Pelear of Hyspia, The Lantern Carrier

War of the Fleece HIS APOSTOLIC MAJESTY, Anorhil Carandir Antonius Caranethion Harren Arthalion, by the Grace of GOD, Apostolic King of Idunia, Seneschal of the True Faith, Chief of the Númenedain and the Tribe of Harren, Master of the Sharadûn, Templar Justiciar of Saint Michael the Archangel, Knight of the Realm, Protector of the Adunians and the True Faith. 15th of Harren’s Folley, 2023 “I will find my spirit steadfast, My blade as the tool wielded dually, By both myself and GOD above. So that HIS enemies shall find, That which is reserved for the sinner, And the fate for the iniquitous.” Amen. Many years ago, a Balian queen came to Númendil as a guest. She had come for global diplomacy, regarding the fate of another globe-spanning conflict; one that was set to be resolved peacefully. As she left, she took something with her- three holy fleeces from three blessed sheep. In response, she was asked to return the warmth stolen from these sheep, by spending three days bringing warmth to Númendil- simply being present and available to talk, to mingle. This was pridefully refused, as were any mediation points. She was threatened with Excommunication, but cited that as a Queen she was above such things. Once warned of the gravity of her apathy, that it is better to be dead than to live such a brazenly unrepentant apostate- peace was quickly achieved, but the resentment had started. The royals of Balian resented that their pride was for the first time in check by a serious spiritual authority, one which did not tolerate the vanity of monarchs. Their royal family plotted to depose the Pontiff- which was rebuked near-instantaneously- and resulted in the excommunication of the kings of Balian and Aaun for their attempt to kill Callahan the first time. From this, Balian was placed under regency and given another chance to exist as a virtuous kingdom under GOD. The king we elevated was John II. He had not been uninvolved; he had been party to the entire scheme, and apathetic to what consequence it would have for the faith, or his kingdom. He and his mother had obfuscated his involvement, but he was found out; but nonetheless given a chance. At the intercession of Ledicort Vuiller, John was entrusted as King of Balian despite his previous excommunication. Here we stand again, prepared to repeat history. Once again, the House of Novellen has risen to a Godwinite pride. John Casimir has declared kings incapable of spiritual rebuke. Once again, the House of Novellen has been admonished to change their ways. John Casimir had been told by friends and priests not to choose a foolish war. Once again, the hearts of Balian have been hardened by their royals’ sins.. John Casimir has let his distaste of his shepherd lead him to schism and scheme. Once again, the Holy League quickly repels the meager banners of Balian. The enemies of the Church are blind to those who would see virtue. Once again, John Casimir and the House of Novellen lashes out at the grace of their shepherd. But never again will this dynasty betray and desecrate their duties and oaths. There is a large portion of the document under this, as if the original writer may have had more to say. Enrique had been last seen working on this document prior to his disappearance.