LuxyLucy

ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF JEROVITZ c. [564] E.S. I thank Her Royal Highness, Alexandria Karina Wick (@Unbaed) and Lord Otto The Tarcharman (@yopplwasupxxx) for their respective works in the field of agriculture, that has given me the inspiration to create my own works, in the field of Agricultural Sciences. In the heart of Hanseti-Ruska, where the sun-drenched fields yield a bounty of grains and vegetables, and the aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, the impact of agriculture on our society and culture is profound and far-reaching. Here, amidst the rustic charm of rural life and the burgeoning bustle of urban centres, the seeds of tradition are sown, and the roots of civilization take hold, intertwining the fate of nations with the rhythms of the harvest. A silent revolution has taken place in the peaceful countryside of Haense, where sun-dappled fields extend as far as the eye could see. This revolution concerned planting techniques and ploughs rather than swords and shields. Here, in the bucolic charm of rural life, farmers and monks work ceaselessly to extract nourishment from the bountiful soil, using traditional methods handed down through the ages and audacious inventions that promise to change the very terrain we call home. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀I⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ Around most Haeseni villages there are three large arable fields. Two of these fields grow crops while the third is left fallow. The village will also have hay meadows and common land where the people have the right to graze their animals. The three arable fields are divided into strips, each one being separated from the next by balks of unploughed land. To ensure that everybody has a fair share of the good land, each family is given strips in all three fields. These strips are long and narrow which reduces the number of times the plough-team has to turn round. On light soils a pair of oxen could successfully pull a plough. However, heavy clay soils need a team of eight oxen. The three-field system of crop rotation is employed by Haeseni farmers, during the seasons of Horen’s Welcome (Jula and Piov) as well as the Amber Cold (Msitza and Dargund). Wheat or rye is planted in one field, and oats, barley, peas, lentils or broad beans are planted in the second field. The third field is left fallow. Each year the crops are rotated to leave one field fallow. This system ensures that the same crop is not grown in the same field two years running. Which helps replenish nutrients in the soil, manage pests and diseases, and increase overall yields. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀II⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ Credit for the map goes to her Lady Erika Kortrevich (@Toffee), love you sestra. Hard Red Winter Wheat The staple of the Haeseni diet, grown along the banks of the rivers Lahy and Dules, this variant of wheat was specifically cultivated to handle the harsh frosts and snow that cover the fields and despite such harsh environment, produce high yields of grain and straw. Feeding man and beast alike. It is most praised for its durability along with excellent characteristics in the baking process, the notable sought after crunch of bread often provided by this grain. Buckwheat Despite the name, buckwheat is not actually a cereal like the other staples of the Haeseni diet. It is actually a fruit related to rhubarb and harvested for its tiny triangular seeds, despite this once milled, it provides the perfect flour for pastries, providing a deep earthy and nutty flavor. It is naturally bitter so it is best paired with natural sweeteners or mixed with other flours to give them a softer texture. It is most commonly seen in the fields just south of Kovgrad. Barley Barley is a grain that is best grown further south along the river Lahy, within the Margrave of Kazan where the warmer climate shines overhead the lands of Hyspia. As a staple within the Haeseni diet it is most known for its use in malting to make beers, or further distilled into whiskeys. Though what is usually not used in the brewing processes often leads to stockfeed. Rye The most durable of the cereal grains for the harsh cold climates of the Hanseti-Ruska, it is often grown in the northern reaches of the Lahy river due to its ability to survive even full snow cover. Upon the arrival of Horen’s Welcome (Jula and Piov) it will develop rapidly, providing spring grazing for the livestock. It’s most commonly used in making Scyfling crispbreads. Oats Oats are less tolerable to the harsh cold compared to the previously listed staples of the Haeseni diet, however, grow quite fast and require far less effort in weeding as they quite easily wipe out the competing weeds for the soil's nutrients, along with can be ploughed over and re-used as green manure. Its most common use is as livestock feed, commonly among the cattle herds of the Koravian peoples within the County of Jerovitz. As a food it’s often used in porridges. Brother May I Have Some Oats (Lady Primrose meandering along the fields of Jerovitz) Red Beets Grown for its edible taproot, is a crop with many uses whether medicinal or to nurture one's hunger. Often used to treat illnesses relating to digestion. They carry many culinary uses whether eaten in their raw form, put to boil, set on a roast or in salads. They also can be pickled, they’re a very versatile plant used in a wide variety of the Haeseni palate. Sugar Beet A highly valuable plant if not the most, the definition of a Haeseni cash crop that grows upon the Viscounty of Zvezlund. A relative of the Red Beet, the sole purpose of the sugar beet is the extraction of its sugary syrup when boiled. Practically identical to the sugar produced from the canes of tropical regions, but durable in the colder climates, delivering Hanseti-Ruska a prominent supply of sugar as a luxury for the Haeseni people. Ruskan Blue Potato A form of underground tuber, best grown in cold regions where sunlight isn’t as prevalent to avoid spoiling from sunlight and the frigid cold to protect from pest attacks and the spread of disease. They’re a hardy durable plant perfect for the colder lands of the Haeseni, most prominent in the County of Ayr, they’ve a wide use in culinary purposes and are beloved for their unique color which retains even after cooking. Radish A rapidly growing plant, allowing them to not be hindered by diseases, they are the perfect companion plant for other crops as their pungent odor deters pests from attacking the main harvest, or as a lure away from such. They are grown for their swollen tap roots and are generally used in raw salads. Onions A form of bulbous vegetable, are quite prone to attacks from pests and disease but a successful harvests provides a wonderful vegetable to store throughout winter, they are pungent and can irritate the eyes when chopped, but can be used in a wide variety of dishes, whether baked or boiled, braised and grilled, along with fried, roasted, sautéed, or even eaten raw in salads. They are often pickled for a long shelf life. Carrots A taproot vegetable, a good companion plant if left to flower, will attract predatory wasps that kill many garden pests. The taproot has a wide use in the culinary field, the greens can be used in a stir-fry or within salads, while the root can be used in soups and stews as well as salads, though most notably due to the sweetness, can be used in baking such as carrot cakes. Turnips A root crop that grows best in cool weather, most prominently grown in the fields of Furentaliz. They’re often used as a side dish with a pungent flavor that becomes milder after cooking, generally boiled in broths or as a vegetable stew. They are also useful as a fast growing livestock feed. Parsnips This root vegetable is a long taproot with a cream-colored skin. It is often left in the ground to mature and becomes sweeter in flavor after winter frosts leading it to be mostly cultivated along the north side of The River Dules, around the Duchy of Kvasz. One should be weary in harvesting them, the sap of a parsnip can cause rashes upon one's skin, or even blindness. They’re usually cooked but can be eaten raw, they have a sweet flavor and before the sugar beet was introduced was often used as a sweetener. They often are used in stews, soups or even in baking to add their sweetness to the dish, they even can be turned into a sweet wine. Cabbage A vegetable crop with dense-leaved heads. It is prepared and consumed in many ways, simplest of ways include eating it raw and or steaming it, though for long storage options it is often pickled and fermented, most commonly in Hanseti-Ruska being sauerkraut a tangy preserved food with many probiotics, an often used side-dish to add needed salinity. Mammoth Ruskan Sunflower The domestic sunflower is a valuable plant in harvesting its seeds, it’s found farmed along the warm southern valley on either side of the river Lahy, though most notably within the County Jerovitz. The seeds are often used as a snack food, whether in a raw state or roasted with seasonings added. Along with uses in being converted into a sunflower nut spread or used to make a plant based butter. Though the most valuable use of the plant is in extracting the oils from the seeds, used for many purposes in cooking, skincare, in the making of margarine or even as a fuel for industrial purposes. The dehulled seeds after the oiling process then can be used for livestock feed. Funding for new fields of the flower is often sponsored by The Countess of Jerovitz, Emma Kortrevich. Colza One of the oldest vegetable oils, it is used in both edible and industrial forms produced from the seed. Though it’s usually not used for its cooking purposes due to the acidic taste. To produce the oil it will be slightly heated before then crushing the seed to extract the oils. Often used for fueling purposes in an industrial capacity to light the blazes of blacksmiths forges across the Kingdom. Cucumber A creeping vine that roots in the ground and grows up along supporting frames, a spherical fruit that heavily relies on a local bee population to grow, just before bloom bees will pollinate the flowers with pollen from other plants in order to form the seeds and fruit of the cucumber. They can be sliced and put into forms of salad, though they’re most commonly pickled, put in a brine with a variety of spices or sugars, a saline staple of the Haeseni diet. Prikaburren (Prikaz Berry) (Read this post for a more in depth description) Thriving in the cold environments in the north of Hanseti-Ruska is a vine plant that grows along the sides of large boulders or in vineyards within the lands of the Westerwald, under the dominion of the County of Ayr, within the Karoswood, clinging along the cliff sides on the way up to Zenorein along with along the mountain sides of Kovgrad. They’ve been a staple of Haeseni culture for centuries, used in a variety of purposes such as wines, jams and teas, a time honored fruit of great significance within the Kingdom. Cranberries Found growing in bog farms within the lands of Ayr past the Gates of Muldav along the river Dules. The Westerwald would be the perfect wetland environment, vines grow within the waters where the large berries float on the surface of the water. Fresh cranberries are hard, sour and bitter so the majority of them will be made into different products, juices along with sauce. Though most commonly they will be dried as an easy to carry tart snack for a Haeseni to enjoy. Ruskan Olives A highly durable shrub, it is able to grow in environments with poor soils, resists droughts and can weather the cold. The plant itself is highly valuable in many manners, the oils produced from the fruit can act as a base for salves that relieve muscle pains along with an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, the leaves can be used to help with gastrointestinal issues, minor wound healing or as an antibacterial. The flowers even serve purpose when made in an herbal infusion that may help with fevers. These sparse shrubs are often seen growing along the plains of the Viscounty of Koppány. Krasnostop Furentaliz In the lands along the Verelund, upon the Barony of Furentaliz there are long winding vineyards that grow dark, ruby-colored variants of grapes with purple hues. The plant is capricious, intolerant to the frosts and suffers from attacks of disease, requiring constant watch over from those that work it. But upon a successful harvest of these rare grapes, a rich red wine would be produced with an aroma of wilted cherries and prunes, a slight acidic tone in the drink. With patience the crest of vines will deliver an iconic Haeseni wine. Haeseni Wild Apples Within the more mild climate of the Karoswood in the shadow of Jerovitz, would be a well beloved fruit tree of the Haeseni, the apple would be quite small, having a well pronounced tart taste that will sweeten as it ripens. They’re often an additive in many dishes for their burst in flavors, for porridges and stews. Though they’re most adored in the baking of Ruskan cakes and pies. The Koravians have taken a liking to using their particularly tart flavor in producing Ciders, a common scent one may smell when passing through Jerovitz is the boiling of such apples for their juices. (The Ladies Mikhaila, Primrose and Erika are depicted here harvesting the wild apples) Rhubarb A fleshy vegetable that consists of edible stalks, the green leaves at the top are poisonous and should not be consumed, but the red stalk beneath is often used in a similar style as fruits, they have a strong, tart taste. It is most commonly used along with sugar in baking pies, crumbles along with other desserts. The majority of Rhubarb is grown around the Viscounty of Novkursain. Pears Found along the Verelund in orchards ran by those within the Barony of Furentaliz, would be medium sized trees growing a pomaceous fruit, a delightful fruit providing many culinary uses, edible to eat as a fresh fruit but also turned into a juice, dried, or even fermented into perry, a form a pear cider. There is even use for the tree’s wood, often used in producing woodwind instruments along with furniture. Ruskan Tomato This plant's fruit is an edible berry, though often treated as a vegetable. They’re a vineyard plant that grow within the lands of Zvezlund, they’re small and bright red and can be planted in cold temperatures, however will not survive a frost cover. The flowers are also able to self-fertilize. It has a strong umami flavor and is an important ingredient in creating sauces or used in soups. For the braver folk, it can even be turned into a juice or used in liquor cocktails. Gooseberry A bush berry often found deep in the thickets of the Karoswood and Westerwald, though it may also be seen grown in gardens among the occupants within the County of Ayr. It is often appreciated for its cooling properties in aiding with fevers. These bushes will often see their branches cut off instead of using their seeds to grow a new plant. The fruit itself can be eaten raw, though it’s favored in desserts such as pies and crumbles. They’re also used in making beverages such as fruit wines and teas. Along with that, they may be dried into a fruit snack or made into a jam spread, they can also be pickled or stored in sugar syrup. Strawberries A hybrid flower that was cultivated by the people of Novkursain, it’s not actually a berry and is a part of the rose family of flowers. It is often enjoyed for its aroma, bright red coloring, juicy texture along with sweetness. It is enjoyed fresh, though has a wide variety of other preparations such as in jams, juices, the baking of desserts such as pies or famously dipped in chocolates, showing off the mercantile prowess of the Haeseni in agriculture. Blackcurrant A particularly hardy plant, it is one of the only few that’s able to survive north of the River Lahy, shadowed under the Castle Morteskvan within the Duchy of Vidaus. It is a relative of the Gooseberry, producing bunches of small glossy black fruit that develop along the stems. The fruit can be eaten raw, but is usually cooked in sweet or savoury dishes, along with being used to make jams, syrups, alcoholic beverages and can even be used in making dyes. It’s a particular favorite of Scyflings in the making of their pastries. Plums Believed to be one of the first fruits domesticated by the Haeseni, they’re an orchard fruit that grows along the lands of Furentaliz and Koppány. The fruit is a drupe, with a firm and juicy flesh, they can be eaten fresh from the tree, though can be dried to make prunes along with being made into jams or even fermented into wine and distilled into brandies. The kernels within the fruit create a poisonous oil. Raspberry Similar to the strawberry, it’s a member of the rose family, a perennial plant with woody stems, they’re grown for their fresh fruit to snack upon. Though can be made into juices or baked into a variety of pastries, they can be found spread all over the wild lands of Hanseti-Ruska. Cherry An orchard drupe, their orchards are often dotted along Koppány, the trees require a chilling frost to break their dormancy and bloom to produce their fruits. They can be a challenging fruit tree to grow and keep alive, often under attack from pests soon after the blossoming takes place. The wood is valued for its rich color and straight grain in the creation of fine furniture. While the drupe itself can be eaten fresh, it is often used as a sweet flavoring in baking or an additive to soups. Pomegranate A favorite for the populace of Koppány, orchards of this fruit dot the hillsides. The pomegranate fruit’s husk is red-purple in color with an outer, hard pericarp, and an inner, spongy mesocarp, which comprises the fruit's inner wall where seeds attach. The seeds of the fruit are characterized by their thick fleshy seed coats. It is commonly made into a juice that may either be sweet or sour, the juice is often added to intensify the flavors of dishes. It also finds uses in the making of pomegranate molasses and vinegar, the seeds are seen used in salads or used as a spice for their acidic tones, a highly valuable fruit with a large variety of uses, it is said Lady Dszamila Korvacz will use it’s reds to dye the fabrics of her dresses. (Music <3) Peppermint One of the oldest herbs used in Haeseni culinary and medicinal products, it naturally occurs under the shade of the mountains that cover Novkursain and Kazan, it typically grows in moist habitats, including stream sides and drainage ditches. Thriving in shaded locations, it expands by underground rhizomes. The oil has a high concentration of natural pesticide, it is often observed to repel pest insects, most notably the mosquito along with being able to repel rodents, making it quite useful in protecting storage locations from being spoiled. Fresh or dried peppermint leaves are often used alone in peppermint tea or with other herbs in herbal infusions, it is also often used for flavoring candies, fruit spreads and alcoholic beverages, often paired with the barley beers and whiskeys made by the Scyflings of Kazan. Mint An aromatic perennial herb, it has wide-spreading underground and overground stolons, it’s practically an invasive species across the entirety of Hanseti-Ruska. It thrives near pools of water, lakes, rivers, and cool moist spots in partial shade. In general, mints tolerate a wide range of conditions, and can also be grown in full sun. Mint will grow all year round. They’re also fast-growing, due to such it only takes one plant to provide more than enough mint for a single home’s use. The harvesting of their leaves can be done at any time, fresh leaves should be used immediately or stored up to a few days in a cold container such as upon an ice cube tray. The leaves have a warm, fresh, aromatic, sweet flavor with a cool aftertaste, and are used in teas, beverages, jellies, syrups, candies and seasoning for many dishes. Dill An annual herb that requires warm summers with high sunshines levels; even partial shade will reduce the yield substantially. It is only suitable for growing in the southern reaches of the River Lahy just before the Vander Falls that lead down to Hyspia. Leading to the Scyflings of Kazan as the only cultivators of the herb in Hanseti-Ruska. The fern-like leaves of dill are aromatic and are used to flavor many foods, such as fish dishes, soups and are often used in the pickling process. It is best when used fresh as it will lose its flavor rapidly. Garlic A bulbous flower plant, used as a seasoning ingredient along with being a traditional medicine. Often used as a home remedy to ward off colds and flu in households, its ability to be stored for long periods of time makes it a common sight dangling in Haeseni homes. It isn’t just colds it wards off, though; it is said in folklore that it is used to ward off the vampyric, adding a nature of superstition to the hanging garlands of garlic in one’s home. Ginger Found along the southern half of the River Lahy, growing within the lands of Zvezlund and Kazan. The ginger root is widely used as a spice along with as folk medicine, it grows annually. Prior to planting the seed rhizomes, farmers are required to treat the seeds to prevent pests, and rhizome rot. Some such methods are cattle dung emulsion, smoking the seeds or hot water treatment. Upon a successful harvest of the rhizome, it is a fragrant kitchen spice, often used in pickling in vinegar, or used as an ingredient in many dishes. They can be steeped in boiling water to make ginger herb tea, to which honey may be added. It can also be made into candies or ginger wine. Horseradish A root vegetable grown in the gardens of the Viscounty of Koppány, It can be used in traditional medicines, the root is able to stave off scurvy along with assisting in treating the common cold. It is best grown in places that experience a frost during the Amber Cold - Msitza and Dargund, to ensure the plant stays dormant, after the frost kills the leaves, the root will be dug up and divided. The main root will be harvested and one or more large offshoots of the root will be replanted to produce the crop for the next harvest season. It has a distinctive pungent taste that is released upon being crushed, it seems to deter herbivores from eating the plant, often seen uninterested upon taking a whiff of the scent. The plant in the culinary world is used as a spice or condiment, being mixed with vinegar, it will be grated into a condiment with added sugar and served with a variety of foods. Baby Bella Mushrooms (Influenced by the work of Her Royal Highness; Alexandria Karina Wick) Named in honor of Prinzenas Theodosiya Ysabel i Markev, due to the luminous white within the mycelium caps that were reminiscent of her skin tone, these small brown-capped mushrooms grow within the Karoswood in little clearings around rocks, while not farmed in any capacity, they’re often foraged, a wonderful addition to soups and stews or as a diced topping to many dishes. Ruskan Tarragon It is a widespread and wild species of perennial herb, it is a hardy and vigorous plant, spreading at the roots and growing over a meter tall. It has preference for poor soils and happily tolerates drought and neglect. It produces many leaves that are mild and good in salads and cooked food. It also is made in creating a popular sweet drink by mixing water with sugar and tarragon leaves, giving it a unique green color. END OF REPORT. HER LADYSHIP, PRIMROSE EMELYA KORTREVICH, The “Rose” of Kortrevich

ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF JEROVITZ c. 564 E.S. In the bustling markets and tranquil villages of Haense, where the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the scent of ripe produce, the economic pulse of society beats to the rhythm of the fields. Here, amidst the rolling hills and fertile valleys, agriculture is not merely a means of survival—it is the lifeblood of our entire civilization, sustaining this kingdom and nourishing souls alike. At the heart of this economy lay a simple truth: without the bounty of the land, there could be no wealth, no commerce, no civilization. From the humblest peasant to the mightiest lord, all depend upon the fruits of the earth for their sustenance and prosperity. Agriculture feeds the masses, fuels the coffers of kings, and sustains the delicate balance of power that holds our society together. For the farmer, there is no rest at any point during the farming year. The farmer’s struggle to survive is never-ending, and tasks continue even under the blanket of winter snow. The life of each farmer is tied to the weather and seasons, and his tasks would change or adapt according to it. There is no such thing as “good weather” – the ideal conditions change according to what is required to advance the crops and facilitate that month’s tasks, and farmers might be as likely to pray for rain or wind as for sun. When the weather does not oblige, the family of a farmer could starve. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀I⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ Month Work to be done Deep Cold - Joma and Umund Hunting for game meats, skinning for furs, tool making for the next cycle and repairing structures Snows Maiden - Wzuvar and Byvca Weeding the fields, ploughing the fields, planting garden crops, fertilising the fields, tending to newborn calves Horen’s Welcome - Jula and Piov Weeding the fields, ploughing the fields, sowing the seeds, pruning the orchards and scaring off the birds First Seed - Vzmey and Hyff Harvesting garden crops, herding the cattle to the grazing fields Grand Harvest - Gronna and Droba Harvesting the now grown fields, tying the scythed straws for transport Sun’s Smile - Tov and Yermey Threshing the grain from straw, winnowing chaff from the grain, milling grains into flour Amber Cold - Msitza and Dargund Harvesting the orchards, herding the cattle home, butchering the beef cattle, salting the meats, storing the meat in smokehouses ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀II⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ Weeding Throughout the year – before ploughing, during the growing season, and just before harvest – weeding is a necessary task. Other plants compete for the same nutrients, light and space as the crop, and have to be removed. This is done by hand, and by the whole family; it is a tedious and back-breaking task. Ploughing From all the tasks of the farming year, ploughing is, without argument, the most arduous of them all. Ploughing is the process of preparing the fields by breaking, aerating and turning over the topsoil, revealing the more fertile undersoil for planting. In order to achieve this the farmer uses (preferably) a heavy plough dragged by oxen or, in the worst case, a shovel and hours of unending, back-breaking labor. Ploughs are heavy, intricate and expensive, and oxen need a large amount of food; in many cases, villages own communal ploughs along with oxen and take turns in using them during ploughing seasons. Fertilising Contrary to popular opinion, most of the fields are not fertilized using manure. Fertilizing a whole field means that you have enough animals to produce a significant amount of manure, which is rarely the case. Another technique used is “marling”. For marling, farmers spread clay containing lime carbonate onto their soil. Clay is not available everywhere, but where it is, it enriches the soil and provides a great boost to the fertility of the field. Manure is used mostly to fertilize the patches the farmers have around their house, which provides the family with fresh fruit and vegetables throughout most of the farming year. Sowing Seed sowing takes place after the ploughing and fertilizing, it was done by hand. A harrow (or rake, for small areas) would then be used to cover up the seeds with aerated soil. Scaring the birds Why use an inanimate scarecrow if you have children with bells, gongs and rattles? Preventing the birds from eating the newly sown seed is vital to increase the yield. Noise makers of various types have been used for this task, or even simply shouting and clapping. Harvesting The time of harvest is a time of hard work and celebration. Twice a year, during First Seed and Grand Harvest, the whole of the family would take to the fields to gather the grains that were seeded. It is important that the crop is harvested as quickly as possible to prevent rain and cold damage. The villagers work from the break of day to dawn every day. It is common that, if a family is struggling, the rest of the villagers will help them out after they are done with their own fields without any pay – that’s how important it is to have a good harvest. When all this is done, it is time to celebrate. Even better is the fact that these celebrations are one of those rare celebrations, in which the Lord of the land would have it funded in its entirety. Tying This refers to tying the bushels of wheat and hay together. It is part of the harvest process. Tying made transportation and storage easier. Winnowing and Threshing Threshing is the process used to separate the delicious grain from the husks and chaff of the plant (the stalks, seed casings etc.). Cut grain-heads are to be hit with a flail to knock the grain out. The whole mix of grain and chaff are then put load-by-load onto a winnowing basket and flung into the air. The heavier grain portion will fall downwards (either into the basket or onto the floor) whilst the lighter chaff and husks will be blown a few feet away by the wind. These were not wasted but used as animal fodder. Milling Milling is the process of grinding down grains of wheat and barley in order to produce flour. Flour is brown and coarse and includes particles of husks. If the Lord of the manor owns a mill, all the milling of the village will happen there and is usually taxed with a portion of the flour milled. If there is no mill available, the villagers will use a hand-operated mill (quern) which is composed of two stones – one above the other – and a handle to grind the top stone over the bottom one. The top stone has a hole in the middle, where the grain is poured slowly. As the stone moved in a circular motion, the grain would slowly break down into flour; this process took hours. In order to have enough flour for one loaf of bread, an adult has to spend around four hours milling flour. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀III⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ The Beast of Burden Though perhaps not technically a tool, the ox is the most significant force that changed the landscape of agriculture. Oxen are strong, hardy and unwavering beasts which work all day, under almost any circumstance. The owning of an ox was an indicator that things were going well. In many cases though, oxen aren’t owned by just one person and are shared amongst the whole, or part of, the village – this is due both to their worth and their food requirement. Oxen are stronger than a heavy horse, and certainly indefatigable compared to any man. They are able to carry large weights and pull the heavy plough for hours every day. The domestication of oxen is an art that not many have mastered, requiring fine tuning in order to create a creature which was domesticated, yet still retained its raw strength and physique. Within Haense, the curated species of bovine is the Markevian cattle, which was introduced to the nation upon the arrival of the Koravian peoples. Sparking an agricultural revolution within the nation, due to their mastery of animal husbandry. A fully grown Markevian bull is an imposing figure, embodying both strength and endurance. Standing with a commanding presence, it can reach a height of 1.55 meters at the shoulder, with its powerful build exuding an aura of quiet authority. The bull's muscular frame is solid and well-proportioned, characterized by a broad, deep chest and a thick, strong neck. Its well-defined withers and back highlight the animal’s robustness, while its thick, rounded hindquarters suggest both power and stability. The Markevian breed’s coat is short and dense, typically a striking white or light gray with occasional darker patches, especially around the eyes, ears, and on the back. The color pattern can vary, but a common trait is the contrast between the pale body and darker areas on the head and extremities, giving the bull a dignified, almost regal appearance. The coat’s texture is smooth to the touch but resilient, adapted to withstand harsh weather conditions, from particularly cold winters. When fully mature, a Markevian bull can weigh between 900 to 1,200 kilograms. Whether grazing in a pasture or standing in the presence of humans, it projects an air of nobility and untamed vitality, epitomizing the essence of a well-bred, working farm animal. Plough, Heavy (Mouldboard) The heavy plough was a significant improvement in agriculture, with a heavy blade which created a deep furrow in the ground. Another vast improvement, due to its augmented design, is that the plough deposits the newly turned soil top-down, meaning that any weeds growing would be smothered without having to be removed. Mouldboard ploughs are mainly used in heavy clay areas, where extra measures are necessary to turn the soil, and reaching deeper into the topsoil was important in order to make the soil suitably fertile. They are much more arduous to draw than lighter variants, but the pay-off in improved yields is significant within the clay deposited soils of Haense. Harrow After the soil has been turned by the ploughs and the seeds are sown, the earth must be smoothed so that the seeds are covered and protected. In order to achieve this, farmers use a harrow. The harrow is essentially a wooden frame composed of four to six connected beams. The lower side is set with spikes or nails, made of either wood or metal. The frame of the harrow is dragged over the ploughed, sown fields, and the spikes would comb the earth smooth, covering over the precious seeds. Fork (Pitchfork) The fork, or pitchfork, has a wooden handle of about five to six feet long, tipped with two or three prongs (or in some instances, as many as four or five), which were usually made of iron. Forks are used to prepare the ground for seeding and covering, in the place of a plough or harrow, for small areas. They are also necessary for the process of making hay, which involves throwing the cut grass into the air in order to aerate and turn it. The aeration of grass prevents the grass from molding which means that the hay dries and will be usable as nutrition for the animals during the winter. Rake For those who don’t have the resources or the ability to use a harrow, or for smaller areas like vegetable gardens, the rake is a low-tech alternative. The rake works exactly as the harrow, but on a smaller scale, covering over seeds and smoothing the topsoil. The rake is also used during haymaking to spread and collect grass. Scythe Barley, oats and grass were no match for the mighty two-handed scythe. The scythe transformed the farmers' life, making it much easier and less tiring. With a scythe, one can reap a whole area of stalks quickly by using a simple circular movement; the clever design of the bent haft and side handle makes the movement quite intuitive. Flail The flail consists of two pieces of wood – a longer handle and a shorter, thicker ‘striker’. The two wooden pieces are connected by a leather strap, passed through holes or metallic loops at their connecting ends. The flail is used to separate the grain from the husks, in a process called threshing, after they were harvested. Winnowing Basket After the grain crop is thoroughly flailed, the grain seeds are separated from their husks and chaff. The thresher would put all the material in the winnowing basket and then launch it up into the air. The heavy grain seeds would fall right in front of him on the ground (or back into the basket) while the chaff and husks, light as they were, would be blown a few feet away by the wind. END OF REPORT. HER LADYSHIP, PRIMROSE EMELYA KORTREVICH, The “Rose” of Kortrevich

Upon hearing the news, of the most prosperous KINGDOOM OF BEELAINS return. A Kortrevich would hurriedly set to work, rebuilding an apiary upon the lands of Jerovitz. "They're going to be in need of honey-based treats!" She would chime along in an excitable manner. A honey-based line of treats, soon to be in production for Beelainians to snack upon.

Primrose would sit within their home, settled by the warmth of the hearth as she began to read her sestra's work. Quietly sipping on some of her mamej's classic, hot cocoa. She'd read along with delighted interest, as she beamed, her heart bursting with pride. "Vy truly are the heart of Kortrevich, Erika." She'd chirp out with joy, as she'd complete her read through. Hurrying way through their home, to tell her sister how much she liked her work.

Primrose would grin as her friend announced their running for Grand Maer. "Ea wish for vyr success, vy starry Colborn." She'd chirp out in delight.

A REPORT ON THE BAND OF ST. TUVYA’S FIRST EXPEDITION. ༺⠀⟐⠀༻ ISSUED BY LADY PRIMROSE KORTREVICH c. 559 E.S. Early in the day, on the 12th of this month, Joma ag Umund, a group of family and friends gathered at the behest of the young Lady Erika Kortrevich. The gathered members of the party - members of the fledgling Band of St. Tuvya - would consist of Primrose Kortrevich, Andrei Kortrevich, Prince Joren, Nadya Weiss, Karl Weiss, Malna, an unnamed ice atronach along with a young girl by the name of Daisy. Their goal was to set off to the Mangrove Marshes to the far Southwest of New Valdev, in search of the rare herbs of those lands to use in the ability to render aid upon the denizens of New Valdev. Much to their pleasure, this adventure would be sponsored by the Royal House of Barbanov-Bihar in thanks for its charitable mission. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀⟐⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ They made their way through the city, heading to the southern gate that aimed west towards the small destroyed town. Upon making their way across the bridge, they’d hurry their way towards the bank of the river. In which, a row of already prepared canoes would be set upon for them, to make their way down the river west. It was a long voyage, along the ice covered river. Perilous in nature as they would guide their canoes past chunks of ice that had formed atop the slow moving parts of the river. As well as making their way down cascading rapids, until they had arrived into a larger expanse of water. Where the waters calmed once more. As they were now in the calm open waters, Lady Erika would guide the band in her lead canoe southward. They’d gaze in awe upon a gigantic bridge of stoneworks that would cross the river. Their eyes followed its build, as they went under its shadow. Before they would begin to notice the water's color beginning to change, as sparse mangroves would begin to dot the water as a growing feeling of humidity filled the air. And the sun's heat became more noticeable. They’d continue rowing in relief, as their destination came into sight. Though at that moment, Nadya Weiss would remember, she needed to train once again in New Valdev and made her leave. The rest of the band would be greeted by pouring rain, in the humid marshes. As their canoes would hit landfall, or well sludgefall. As they’d push against the muddy banks of land. The merry band of now eight, would make their exit out of the canoes. And be instantly met with the muddy sludge, their boots sinking into it. As they’d with much strain, battled against the suction of the mixture of dirt and liquid. Would make it up to stronger soils, further up the bank. Their clothing, already dreading its greeting with the marshes. As they’d already be drenched in the rain, and covered in mud. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀⟐⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ Lady Erika would address her soiled band of followers, despite her physical status, she’d remain excited to deliver her quest, upon the band of loyal followers. As they all would reciprocate interest in their leader's words. They were to stick close, in the heavy rain and darkness, that began to shroud them. With the setting sun, it’d grow more difficult for them to navigate the lands. They were to keep their eyes peeled, for a glimpse of the orange flower Mandragora. And with that, they would set off deep into the swamp. Trekking through mud and pushing past vines, as the noises of the dark overtook them. The roaring of rain, the light breeze rushing through their hair, as insects chirped and other creatures slithered as well as scurried around them, large beady eyes staring at them. As they trekked, through the harsh environment. As they made their way through, the whole band would look in surprise, upon a gigantic fungus. A mushroom spiraling up past the canopy of mangroves, in wondrous allure. Perhaps too much, as a member of their band Malna, would hurry over to take a bite right off the side of the fungi. Much to the horror of the band, as Karl Weiss would hurry to stop her, but it was too late as she munched upon it. Making no complaint then, as she’d seem much to their surprise, quite alright. After those miraculous events, Lady Erika’s gaze would settle upon the herb she seeked. Hurrying her way over towards it, as she would explain to her band of followers, what to do for their safety, in extracting it. Going to cover her face with her scarf, as she’d look away to avoid the plant's spores. Tugging upon it then, to varied success but she still got what she seeked, as the band cheered in joy upon their success. ⋅ ───────────────⊱༺⠀⟐⠀༻⊰─────────────── ⋅ After such, Lady Erika would delegate the task of leading the adventuring band to Lord Andrei. Of which he would accept, as he’d march forward to guide the band, through the harsh elements. The weather slowly let up then, as they trudged through the swamp. Before eventually, they would all spot Hiding Moss. It clung to the shrouded part of one of the mangroves trees. Lady Erika would explain to them then, the nature of Hiding Moss. How it expands when it is introduced to light. So to contain it, you set it within a ceramic container and cork it at the top, to conceal it from light. lest, it would break the container. After the lesson, the band would break out into a fit of teasing and joy. As a frog then would hop around them, all in a flitter of whimsy. After their whimsical affairs, the band would begin their long journey back home. Retracing their steps through the quagmire of swampy mush, as they got back to their canoes and would begin their rowing, back to New Valdev. Upon their arrival, the Kortreviches, alongside their cousin Lady Nadya Weiss. Would be welcomed into the Kastell Lesanov and offered royal hospitality along with the thanks of the King, for their successful mission. And they all sat and ate in revelry, now that they may rest, after their arduous journey. END OF REPORT. HER LADYSHIP, PRIMROSE EMELYA KORTREVICH, The “Rose” of Kortrevich

A young girl sat unconsolable upon the porch of her home; a tear-stained letter clutched in her hands as it'd crinkle within her grip. She did not move for hours; oodles of snot ran along her upper lip as her eyes would strain red from her endless tears. Her eyes would scan the letter once again, heart sinking upon every word. "There is no life to love without you, Mama..." She'd utter resolutely in her heartbreak, a Sorvian-Newt waddling up beside her then and leaning against her, as it'd give her a hug. Though she'd weep forevermore.

A soft whimper escaped from the young Primrose as she heard the news of her eldest Sestra's leaving, a soft murmur of prayer escaping from her lips. "Stay safe mea birdie, ea hope to see vy again." She'd chime out in hope. Before lifting her chin as she'd make her way to her fellow triplet borsa. "Now ea must do mea best to support Dri!" She'd declare in a resolute manner.

A young child stood quietly, her gaze settled upon the iron gate that slowly opened before her, with its rise her lips would in unison, dimples forming on her cheeks. A squeal of bubbly delight escaping from her, as a cane would strike into the very dirt of their home. "Papej! Papej! Papej!" The little rose would chirp out in absolute delight. Running hurriedly up towards her towering father, enwrapping her around him in an adoring embrace, craning her neck backwards as she'd peer up to him with her giddy grin. "Vyr home!" The girl cheered out as an arm would wrap around her in return, holding her close as duo would begin to saunter, slowly towards the door of their home. "Ea love vy!" The girl chimed as the Koravian Bull was now able to rest, spending his time with his loved ones.

The young Rose would let out a fit of squealy delight upon hearing the announcement. "Aedypapej and Aedymamej are getting married in The Chapel of VENERATED PRIMROSE!?" The little Primrose would shake in excitement, as there was to be a union, within the Chapel of her namesake.

Upon the announcement of the Wedding, the young ward of Her Grace Tatiyana vas Ruthern would beam in delight. The young Primrose Kortrevich would then begin to hurriedly scurry in search of a grand gift, to give her teacher. "What would Lady Taty like?" The little Rose pondered.