ContestedSnow

OF 501 E.S. Issued by the DUCHY OF VIDAUS On the 22nd day of Msitza ag Dargund of 500 E.S. My daughter and heir Mikhaila vas Ruthern’s sixteenth name day has come and passed, and as her eighteenth now approaches, I find it right and just to make preparations for the bestowing of her rightful title as Baron of Rostig. Granted the title myself in youth during the fall of Almaris, I intend to invoke the call of my grandfather and forebear Duke Mikhail, and have my own daughter prove her strength and right to bear the title. I invite all honourable men and women of Hanseti-Ruska, and beyond as well, to pay respects and to come prepared for battle to the newly constructed tourney grounds of the realm. I shall expect my daughter to participate in both parts of this event, as well as all of you. Prove your sword-arm, just as she must. If she lives well, and acquits herself reasonably, then I shall grant her the title of Baroness, and as for further combatants; FOR THE MOST SKILLED RIDER AND WARRIORS BOTH WHO FINDS THEMSELVES VICTORIOUS, THEY SHALL EACH RECEIVE A SUM OF MINAE IN PRIZE. First place of the joust shall receive a hundred minae in prize, and a trophy crafted by my own hand. Following, there shall be a group melee of teams composed of three each. A reward of 300 minae shall be distributed to the triumphant, for the earnings to be split between said team. [ FRIDAY 27TH OF OCTOBER, 5 PM EST ] DRUZ GJERNZ AG GRYVNZ, His Grace, Viktor var Ruthern, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South

"As far as ea recall, the argument was that nie bandit could reside in the Mareno's home, for the Marenos were absent from all matters of realm in Veletz. Perhaps time has worn mea memory. Et was niet about what was factual in the end, regardless. Only about posturing, and damaging negotiations with poor faith and insults. There es little point to picking at nonsense." Viktor var Ruthern gave a slight dismissive wave after he spoke aside to his kin, and occupied himself with other matters. It seemed he suggested Andrik do the same.

The Duke of Vidaus grew a firmly grim countenance as he read the name of the play first and then through it's contents. His knuckles grew taut with the parchment in hand, before he breathed a slow, deep sigh. Memories of his youth rushed to him, playing at lordliness, and arguments and fond moments shared with those special to him. He remembered how he shouted at her last, and his guilt at her tears, and a few brief words escaped his mouth beneath his breath. "Vy were a fool, Lorena. A fool..." His tone was gentle, but what is past is unchanging, and there was little to be done or said now. He set the papers down gently, and busied himself once more with plans of keeps and constructions and letters.

Issued on 12th of Sun’s Smile, 77 BA - 12th of Tov ag Yermey, 497E.S. It pleases the respective Crowns of the Kingdom of Balian and the Dual Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska to maintain and pursue allyship betwixt one another once more. Akin to the prophetic Scroll of Auspice, the two nations do swear to stand by one another as the Highlander tribes of Edel and the Southern Rhen once had under the banner of Exalted Sigismund. Seeing through to the terms of an official military alliance, the two Signatories do swear by the following terms: ARTICLE I The Dual Monarchy of Hanseti-Ruska and Kingdom of Balian, hereon referred to as “the signatories”, mutually recognise each others’ status as fully autonomous states. This includes the right to fully rule and govern their territories as they see fit and non-interference in internal affairs. ARTICLE II The signatories pledge themselves to a defensive alliance between their States, and shall not incite conflict between each other. They furthermore agree that an attack on one signatory shall be treated as an attack on both. ARTICLE III The signatories pledge military support, and to aid each other in all military disputes, wars and conflicts that are just and right under the eyes of God. ARTICLE IV The signatories, wishing to promote free trade amongst one another and their people, will engage in cultural exchanges, those being mercantile trading amongst the respective nation’s shopkeepers and tavern workers. Cultural festivals and events will be held together in order to promote cultural engagement and highlight each nations respective uniqueness and to educate the new generation of foreign cultures and significance. ARTICLE V This treaty shall be in effect for a period of thirteen years, after which the Kingdoms shall convene once again for renegotiations. RENEWAL We do hereby announce on the 77th Year BA and 497th Year E.S. that the alliance between The Dual Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska and The Kingdom of Balian is renewed and re-ratified, and that the alliance and status of the signatories be considered most up to date with the publishing and releasing of this document to public viewing. It is the hope of the signatories that this prosperous relationship shall continue for many years to come, that our descendents may prosper from its fruits. Signed, HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Adrian I, by the Grace of GOD, King of Balian, Viscount of Pompourelia, Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca,Valens, Malenos, Goza and Ciavola, Lord of Portoregne, Atrus and Monterosa, Warden of La Costa Rubinissima, Prince of the Holy Orenian Empire, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera. HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Aleksander II, by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Order of the Crow, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Siegrad, Werdenburg, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Buck and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector and Lord of the Highlanders, etcetera. Her Royal Highness, Elena Casimira Novellen-de Lyons, Countess of Rosemoor, Baroness of Enderoca, Amiratus of the Kingdom of Balian, Lady Seneschal of the Crown and Chief Minister of the Royal Duana. His Excellency, Viktor var Ruthern, Lord Emissary of Hanseti-Ruska, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South. His Lordship, Fredrich Ludovar, Ambassador to Balian.

Viktor var Ruthern, Duke of Vidaus, raised a hand up to pinch the bridge of his nose as he read the issue; his brows furrowed sharply in a rather severe scowl. It felt as though the fireplace cast long shadows about the room that threatened to consume his surrounds with every flicker of those flames, irritating as they were in the corner of his eye. He spent some while in solitude and in silence, before he slammed the parchment down and stood. "Naturally, ea will fight. Ea've nie intention of cowering from vy, Kazimir."

IN DEFENCE OF HONOUR Issued by the DUCHY OF VIDAUS On the 12th day of Jula ag Piov of 492 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, Know well, uncle, that I have never wished ill upon you in my lifetime. And know well that the mantle of Duke was always fated to fall upon my shoulders, for no man lives forever. My father and predecessor’s demise was an unfortunate one, but I shall not apologise for it. A man should not apologise for defending himself, and so I shall not. Nor shall I face your insult knelt like a cur. And while I appreciate the words and sentiments of my dear sister, I need not her words nor her blade to defend me and my honour. Such I can do by my own hand, and such is my own responsibility. If blood is what you wish, then I shall satisfy you, but know I do not intend to die until GOD himself calls me to the Seven Skies or sets me upon the Hells. Let it be known that I accept your challenge, Kazimir var Ruthern, and shall face you upon the field. Any less should be a grave dishonour upon my Family. Should I die at your hands, I shall leave instructions to my wife regarding the regency held in my wake, and for whom shall serve as legal guardian over my Daughter and Heiress and the lands of Ruthern until such a time she may rule in her own stead. If your word is true and honourable, then come before me and we shall see who God wishes still standing. SO BE IT. DRUZ GJERNZ AG GRYVNZ, His Excellency, Viktor var Ruthern, Lord Emissar of Hanseti-Ruska, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South

UNDER GOD’S WATCHFUL EYES Issued by the DUCHY OF VIDAUS On the 16th day of Joma ag Umund of 491 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, An ever-present face of the Haeseni realm, Duke Aleksandr had served dutifully many years under the Crown and in the ruling of the familial holdings of Ruthern. A score of decades, more than a half-century, the Duchy of Vidaus lay under his stead-fast rule, until now, where it has come under my own rule, and his passing is hereby announced. There has always been a turbulent relationship between myself and my Father, with few kindnesses shared between the two of us, and this last night prior this adversarial connection came to a head. A verbal altercation between him and myself had come to blows, after he had struck me upon the head in a fury. Following this, I bore concern and fear that such actions would extend further danger to myself, or God Forbid, my children. In past years, he had not proven averse to harming my eldest daughter over lesser slights. And so, I acted in retaliation. In Defense of myself, I have slain him. If His Majesty the King so wishes to see me punished, I shall come before him in privacy and so face whatever I am bestowed. I shall as well present myself to the Church of Canon and repent my sins before them, and heed their council thereafter. I announce this before the realm, the Crown, and Godan, for I am no coward, and do not intend to swathe my actions in secrecy as a craven would. In conflict, one must be prepared to defend themself and their kin, and so I did. WITH GOD AS MY WITNESS. DRUZ GJERNZ AG GRYVNZ, His Excellency, Viktor var Ruthern, Lord Emissar of Hanseti-Ruska, Duke of Vidaus, Count of Metterden, Viscount of Greyspine, Baron of Rostig, Lord of Druzstra and Protector of the South

The newly appointed Lord Emissar, Viktor var Ruthern, strode his new office space with a shrewd squint and attentive eyes. He traced the marks upon the desk that had once belonged to his predecessor and good friend, and the papers that he himself had already strewn out onto the table-top. He wondered if he would be as bogged with busy-work as she had once been. Likely. The Ruthern had grown an amused smirk as he gently set down the Ivory Bulava and his axe both, and sat at his new desk; a stretch of parchment already in hand. "Mea turn now, et seems."

Tap, tap, tap. Drip, drip, drip. Viktor var Ruthern looked to the skies and the clear sky's moon, the northern mounts of the Kareninas illuminated in it's pale light. With boots raised to rest on his desk, his brows remained furrowed in a thoughtful frown. His fingertips rapped the wooden table methodically, before he ceased. The Ruthern leant aside to correct the quill dripping ink upon his desk, and collected his axe as he stood. What was he thinking? No time for rest.

"Ea should like to see their next moves now that the Crow has spread et's wings. Will we have to take flight?" A Ruthern reclined back at his desk, parchments and old copies of the ratification strewn across the mahogany, and lifted his mug of Carrion Black for a brief swig. As he leant back and raised his boots up to rest upon his workstation, Viktor bumped loose a quill that began to drip down beside his axe. He paid it little mind, looking to the dark clouds that had begun to slowly but surely part in the Northern night sky.

The celebration and honouring of Her Ladyship Mikhaila vas Ruthern’s fifth nameday. Issued by the BARON OF ROSTIG On the 7th day of Vyzmey ag Hyff of 487 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, It is with great pleasure that I announce the approach of my own heiress’ fifth nameday, and seek to impress the importance of valour and military prowess to her. In keeping with this, I put out a summons for a grand tourney and grand warriors befitting the occasion. Gifts need not be brought, for the display of honour and skill shall be a gift all its own. All are cordially invited to partake in this festivity, yet it is incumbent upon each participant to adhere to the prescribed code of conduct upon the hallowed grounds of the tourney—a code that shall be annexed hereafter to this missive. Penned by the late King Georg I, God bless him, and the Duke Aleksandr, ensure attendees are well-prepared on their advices. Moreover, let it be known that all contenders must come prepared with their own noble steeds and lances, as the House of Ruthern shall not furnish any spare equipment for this extraordinary occasion. First place shall receive a hundred and fifty minae in prize, and a trophy of my own making to commemorate the victory. [ FRIDAY 28TH OF JULY, 4 PM EST ] BY BONES AND BARROWS, His Lordship, Viktor var Ruthern Baron of Rostig, Heir to the Duchy of Vidaus

IN 484 E.S. Issued by the BARON OF ROSTIG On the 7th day of Vyzmey ag Hyff of 484 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, After spending the last month in private retreat, and a healthy term before that, Lady Katia Ruthern is in good health, and the Ducal House of Ruthern is proud to announce the birth of a young, healthy GIRL. Bearing a seemingly calm temperament, the newborn greatly resembles her father with the same olive green eyes and a similar complexion, much to the joy of the Baron Viktor. The Baron and Baroness of Rostig hereby announce the name of their first child; Her Ladyship, MIKHAILA VIKTORIYA VAS RUTHERN @PerfectlyPeachy She is named in honour of her great-grandfather, the Duke Mikhail of Vidaus and famed Ruthern Queen, Viktoria of Metterden. It greatly pleases the House Ruthern to see the bond between their own family and House Godunov strengthened, first with marriage, and now with new life. His Lordship and Her Lordship respectfully offer their friends and family, the Godunovs, to come and see the newborn babe. BY BONES AND BARROWS, His Lordship, Viktor var Ruthern, Baron of Rostig Her Ladyship, Katia Milena Ruthern, Baroness of Rostig

OF 483 E.S. Issued by the BARON OF ROSTIG On the 11th day of Jula ag Piov of 483 E.S. SANGKRUV I RUTHER, After a lengthy courtship that began in Almaris with a chance encounter, the Baron of Rostig and the young Lady Katia Godunov are pleased to announce that they shall take their vows and be united as one. The couple asks that those familiar will attend the ceremony and celebrate in a grand feast to follow by their side. I. CEREMONY The sun continues its long and welcome stretch across the northern skies in the month of Gronna ag Droba of 483 E.S., where the Lord Ruthern and Lady Godunov will be bound in matrimony. The couple shall exchange vows in the Everardian Basilica before the subjects of the realm and under the loving eyes of GOD. This shall mark the beginning of a long and fruitful union. Formal invitations are sent to the following; His Royal Majesty, Aleksandr II, King of Hanseti-Ruska and his noble pedigree Her Grace, Roslin Baruch, Duchess of Valwyck and her noble pedigree His Grace, Manfred Barclay, Duke of Reinmar and his noble pedigree The Right Honourable, Stanimar Ludovar, Count of Otistadt and his noble pedigree The Right Honourable, Ileana Kortrevich, Countess of Jerovitz and her noble pedigree The Right Honourable, Carolus Colborn, Count of Malkovya and his noble pedigree The Honourable, Audo Weiss, Viscount of Novkursain and his noble pedigree His Highness, Francisco de Pelear, Viceroy of Hyspia and his noble pedigree Her Ladyship, Alyona Godunov, Baroness of Verskaya and her noble pedigree Her Ladyship, Nataliya Amador, Baroness of Mondstadt and her noble pedigree Her Ladyship, Elia Stafyr, Baroness of Thurant and her noble pedigree Dave @hippo His Highness, Heinrich von Alstreim, Prince of Merryweather BY BONES AND BARROWS, His Lordship, Viktor var Ruthern, Baron of Rostig Her Ladyship, Katia Milena Godunov

↬ Discord: contestedsnow ↬ Skin Name(s): Gilded Coat ↬ Bid(s): $30

"After everything, ea could hardly miss this now." Viktor looked over his invitation, faint but tender smile on his lips, before he set the paper aside. The Ruthern's smile was replaced with a stoic mask, later, when he left his family's manor in search of his own betrothed.

↬ Discord: contestedsnow ↬ Skin Name(s): Gilded Coat ↬ Bid(s): $15

Tap, tap, tap, tap. His fingers were rapping against the wood again. The same droning sound, slow and methodical, like that dreadful creaking; perhaps that awful sound had drilled itself into his very motions. The crackle of ashes and crumbling wood roused him occasionally. Viktor var Ruthern had sat silently in that room, next to the very last place he had spoken to his mother, for God know's how long. First, he had deigned to pray in church, but now... perhaps he longed for her company, still. Over the years, he had come to realise many faults of his parents both, and yet... "Ea lied, and Ea was wrong. Ea still had questions to ask." A hand came up to hold his face, and he returned to that lonely silence. He could not stay like this, he knew, but he wanted to at least a little longer.

Regarding the map with some good sense of satisfaction, Viktor var Ruthern turned it aside, and then observed his boots. His expression soured. Ruined.

big, huge even :D

Viktor var Ruthern strapped an axe at his side, tugging his boots and collecting himself. It seemed the soles had begun to wear something fierce, with the many miles he had already trekked. Many more awaited, surely. The Highlands need taming.

The sound of pottery shattering echoed through the Drusztran Keep, breaking the otherwise still quiet of a late evening. Viktor var Ruthern stood heaving in the hallway of his home's quarters, shoulders raising then dropping, over the remains of some vase or other that he had smashed. He brought the report up to his eyes to read once more, in vain effort. His hand closed, then gripped firm; crushing the paper in hand. Deaf to the concern of servants or anger of his family, he stormed off with his chin raised imperious... and seemingly wet eyes. He needed some cold air. "Vy promised and ea believed, so many years ago. Nie tears will come from eam, Lorena..." In spite of his words uttered in anger and frustration... grief found itself creeping into the Ruthern's heart.