Quinn275

IGN: Quinn275 Character Name: Juliyus Kortrevich Age: 89 Place of Residence: County of Jerovitz Position: Alderman

Within the study of Jerovitz, Juliyus ponders how many beasts fall in the service of Man. If only the horse could speak, then they would give their gratitude to their masters' will to preserve them.

On the brain of the Kharajyr, Compared to that of Man Written by: Juliyus Kortrevich, VKR Preface It has long been the prevailing opinion among Men that the Kharajyr race is inferior, both in organization and in intellectual powers, to that of Man; and that, in all the points of difference, it exhibits an approach to the Monkey tribes. The object of the present paper is to institute a rigid inquiry into the validity of this opinion. The author has, for this purpose, examined an immense number of brains of persons of different sexes, of various ages, and belonging to dif­ferent varieties of both Man and Kha, by ascertaining their exact weight, and also by accurate measurement of the capacity of the ca­vity of the cranium 5 and has arrived at the following conclusions. This is a topic of recent importance, as those powers within the Holy Orenian Empire, and to extent within our own Grand Kingdom, would see to it that the cultural practices of Highlander sects would be oppressed in conjunction with deeming creatures such as the Kha of equal ability in a Man created social structure. Brain of Man The weight of the brain of an adult male Highlander varies from 2bs.7oz. to 3lbs.3oz. troy weight: that of the female weighs, on an average, from 4 to 8 oz. less than that of the male. The brain usually attains its full dimensions at the age of seven or eight and decreases in size in old age. At the time of birth, the brain bears a larger proportion to the size of the body than at any subsequent period of life, being then as one sixth of the total weight; at two years of age it is one fourteenth; at three, one eighteenth; at fifteen, one twenty-fourth; and in the adult period, that is, from the age of twenty to that of seventy, it is generally within the limits of one thirty-fifth and one forty-fifth. In the case of adults, however, this proportion is much regulated by the condition of the body as to corpulence; being in thin persons from one twenty-second to one twenty-seventh, and in fat persons often only one fiftieth, or even one hundredth of the total weight of the body. The brain has been found to be particularly large in some individuals possessed of extraordinary mental capacity. No perceptible difference exists either in the average weight or the average size of the brain of the Highlander and of the Heartlander: and the wrinkles are not larger, relative to the size of the brain, in the former than in the latter. In the external form of the brain of the Heartlander a very slight difference only can be traced from that of the Highlander; but there is absolutely no difference whatsoever in its internal struc­ture, nor does the Heartlander brain, exhibit any greater resemblance to that of the common monkey than the brain of the Highlander, excepting, perhaps, in the more symmetrical disposition of its convolutions. Such findings provide adequate evidence that the major groups of Man are indeed of equal intelligence and capability, giving reason for their equal treatment, spare for noble purity. Brain of the Kharajyr The weight of the brain of an adult male Kha varies from 31bs.3oz. to 4lbs. 1 I oz. troy weight: that of the female weighs, on an average, from 1/2 to 5 oz. less than that of the male. Similar to that of Men, the brain bears much more proportion to the size of the body at birth, and decreases with age. The similarities in shape are also shared in reference to the proportion to the relative fitness of the creature. Throughout this project, it became evident that coming across a specimen of extraordinary mental capacity, in similar relative difference to that of a Man, was not possible, or exceedingly rare; Therefore no similarity can be drawn between that of an above average Man and an above average Kha, however if one were to be found, it is expected to have a similar relative outcome. Evidently, there is a highly noticeable difference between the average weight, and average size of Man and Khas. Additionally, where the brain of Man has distinct ridges and valleys throughout the surface, that of the Kha is quite different. While still presenting high and low points, the overall appearance is more smooth. Continuing in highlighting differences, the brain, and the chamber contained by the canium, is covered in a viscous slime-like fluid. While the reason for the presence of such liquid is unknown, a working theory relates the slow movement of the substance to the relative intelligence, and in extension consciousness, of the Kharajyr. Closing Remarks With proof obtained though the most recent methods and techniques, it can be ascertained that the common opinion popular throughout groups of Men has a basis in the physical. It can be expected for Kha to perform below the average Man, which may be found self-evidently in the barbaric and simple social systems that are found within their communities. It cannot be expected of these creatures to perform the same social duties within our societies, as such it is irresponsible to give them such channels. The Kha is not above those other creatures in the kingdom of beasts, and is little above that of the monkey, giving Men perfect reason and justifiable right to do with them as whatever their culture wishes.

Sons of Haense Composed by: Juliyus Kortrevich My name is Aldrik Baruch, I'm a child of Voron, Haense And I left my only family for the sea, the salt, and rain And when Stefan called the banners in 1611 Well I joined the royal army for the land that I am from We were baptized by fire in the battle of Rothswood And we fought our southern opposers in the wind, the snow, and sun And when our time was over I heard the commander say "Keep fighting for the kingdom for just another day" So we joined the lion of Carnatia, Kovachev his name And we marched once more toward battle as the 20th of Haense [Chorus] If we should die today, then dream a dream of heaven Take your northern hearts with you to the grave Be proud and true you are a royal soldier Stand fast, ye are the sons of Haense Well, our western flank, it was missing As the Courlanders, they pushed on And I fought them tooth and nail Our stamina all but gone And alone I stood with colors I was Flying proud and true For to let my northern brothers know The battle was not through And then appeared our crow, and he was cawing shining steel Charging down the mountain with what forces we had left 'Cause we're as steadfast as Greyspine We're as hard as winter's rain Go straight to hell with your tyrant yell We are the sons of Haense [Chorus] And if we should die today, then dream a dream of heaven And take your northern hearts with you to the grave Be proud and true you are a royal soldier Stand fast, ye are the sons Stand fast, ye are the sons Stand fast, ye are the sons of Haense

JULIYUS KORTREVICH A DEPENDABLE DEFENDER Juliyus Kortrevich on the Campaign trail, 379 E.S. A DEPENDABLE DEFENDER Juliyus Kortrevich, a five term alderman and longtime opponent of sanoist ideals is running for his sixth term as your Alderman! Juliyus is a dependable representative and defender of Biharist principles with experience and expertise to back it up. A RETURN TO TRADITION Royal Alderman Juliyus Kortrevich will continue to work in returning Haense from sanoist and liberal policies including but not limited to, the overcomplicated judicial system, the sanoist medical care institution, and the excessive over-governing done by the Aulic government that resembles our lesser heartlantic imperial counterparts. Royal Alderman Juliyus Kortrevich advocates for a more moral and canonist government, Pan-highlandic policies which puts the true Haeseni first, a smaller and simpler Aulic Court, a return to the old days of settling disputes with a duel like true Haeseni, and a privatized Medical institution that allows for more jobs and profit as well as lesser strain on the Haeseni people through taxation. TERM GOALS: I. Work on simplifying the Aulic Court and judicial system II. Reform the Sanoist Medical Care in Haense III. Preserve and defend Biharist traditions and Jeremic Liberties IV. Return Haense to its simpler and old ways V. Fight for our Highlander roots VI. Make a veteran's benefit fund for those that reach an officer rank and serve for more than 20 years. JULIYUS KORTREVICH; A RETURN OF THE HAESENI DREAM -Brought to you by Barbanov & Baruch Consulting-

IGN: Quinn275 Character Name: Juliyus Kortrevich Age: 75 Place of Residence / Street Address: County of Jeovitz Position: Alderman

JULIYUS KORTREVICH FIGHTING FOR OUR CULTURE Juliyus Kortrevich on the Campaign trail, 374 E.S. ABOUT JULIYUS: Juliyus is a member of the Noble family, House Kortrevich. For the past four terms, Juliyus has served as an alderman, representing the Haeseni people and fighting for them every step of the way. He’s an experienced statesman, and a known maverick. He’s known as a straight shooter and an honest man in the Duma, he speaks his opinion whether the other members like it or not. Juliyus gives the hard truths and is willing to fight for the principles and Haeseni values that he believes are unalienable. He will work tirelessly to represent his constituents as he has for the past three terms, and no pressure from any member of the Duma or outside force can stop him! JULIYUS’ BELIEFS: Juliyus hopes to continue his fight for the Haeseni people in another term for Alderman. He places in traditional Haeseni values and culture, and hopes to preserve both as Haense progresses forward while strengthening our cultural pillars. Juliyus has strong Canonist principles and will work to defend the Church from any secular legislation. Juliyus believes in a strong central government, and a representation of the soldiers that represent us. Juliyus hopes to prevent any sanoist or highly secular legislation, as well as any legislation that increases unnecessary bureaucracy. CAMPAIGN PROMISES: I. Juliyus promises to fight for Haeseni and Canonist values. II. Juliyus promises to fight against any unnecessary bureaucracy and secular sanoist legislation. III. Juliyus promises to fight for further representation and legislation benefitingmembers of the H.R.A Juliyus Kortrevich; An Alderman that will fight for our tradtions!

IGN: Quinn275 Character Name: Juliyus Kortrevich Age: 77 Place of Residence / Street Address: Koenastriet V Position: Alderman

JULIYUS KORTREVICH FIGHTING FOR YOU Juliyus Kortrevich on the Campaign trail, 370 E.S. ABOUT JULIYUS: Juliyus is a member of the Noble family, House Kortrevich. For the past three terms, Juliyus has served as an alderman, representing the Haeseni people and fighting for them every step of the way. He’s an experienced statesman, and a known maverick. He’s known as a straight shooter and an honest man in the Duma, he speaks his opinion whether the other members like it or not. Juliyus gives the hard truths and is willing to fight for the principles and Haeseni values that he believes are unalienable. He will work tirelessly to represent his constituents as he has for the past three terms, and no pressure from any member of the Duma or outside force can stop him! JULIYUS’ BELIEFS: Juliyus hopes to continue his fight for the Haeseni people in another term for Alderman. He places in traditional Haeseni values and culture, and hopes to preserve both as Haense progresses forward. Juliyus has strong canonist principles and will work to defend the Church from any secular legislation. Juliyus believes in a strong central government, and a representation of the soldiers that represent us. Juliyus hopes to prevent any sanoist or highly secular legislation, as well as any legislation that increases unnecessary bureaucracy. CAMPAIGN PROMISES: I. Juliyus promises to fight for Haeseni and Canonist values. II. Juliyus promises to fight against any unnecessary bureaucracy and secular sanoist legislation. III. Juliyus promises to fight for further representation and legislation benefitingmembers of the H.R.A Juliyus Kortrevich; An Alderman that will fight for you!

IGN: Quinn275 Character Name: Juliyus Kortrevich Age: 73 Place of Residence: Viscounty of Krusev Position: Alderman

IGN: Quinn275 Character Name: Juliyus Kortrevich Age: 69 Place of Residence: Viscounty of Krusev Position: Alderman

IGN: Quinn275 Character Name: Juliyus Kortrevich Age: 65 Place of Residence: Vicounty of Krusev Position: Alderman

A Pocket Naumarian-Common Translation for the Adventurous Revised Edition Compiled by Sir Otto Kortrevich, Revised by Juliyus Kortrevich Compiler’s Note When I had taken it upon myself to organize my late grandfather’s large assortment of journals, notes, papers and books, it became obvious that the language of his people, Naumarian, had been his deepest passion in the latter years of life. Having read many of his unpublished linguistic compilations and theories, I believe it is unjust to leave it unavailable to the public; This new edition combines my grandfather’s written collection with my brother’s publishing know-how. I shall end with the notes from the first author: Naumarian is the language of the Haeseni people and gives a voice to the soul of the North. When I had the opportunity to be taught in school, Common certainly was the major language, however, Naumarian was still taught. These days it is used far less, however, I have run into a growing number of individuals pursuing a stronger relationship with our traditions. Haeseni Literature Republished Pages The Kingdom of Haeseni-Ruska has a full and well-documented history for any who share an equal interest in learning it as they do this language. The greatest resource for compiled Haeseni literature is the Work Directory, which is wonderfully kept up to date by the Brotherhood of Sigismund and the Society of Saint Everard. The index can be found in the Alimar Memorial Library in the Grand City of New Reza, as well as many of the great libraries within the Holy Oranian Empire. As this is a translation guide, you may also be interested in its roots. A great volume of the words is pulled from Karl Kautsky’s A Dictionary and Etymology of the New Marian Language. For those interested in the culture of our kingdom, I highly suggest reading Haeseni Mythologie from Otto the Tarcharman. It is a good long read for sitting and when twisted slightly makes a fantastic story for children. If history is what you are after, the notes on my cousin The Life of Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich, by Sir Otto Kortrevich, tell the great story of not only Ser Nikolaus but also a glimpse into the Kortrevich house. For even more history, many of the noble families make an effort to report their efforts and tribulations. Additional Pages This booking being a rehashing of a previous version, it is only fit to direct you as a reader towards the final recount and missives of Sir Otto Kortrevich. To know that such patriotism and loyalty could be found within a man is something that we as a Kingdom should be proud of. In times shortly before the publication of this translator, a brief, but complete, history of a King important to the foundation and strengthening of long withstanding Haeseni Houses had been put into the public’s eye, and which you will not wish to miss. Following the Compiler’s note and the brief note on Haeseni literature, the translation guide begins. It makes sure to be highly specific on the grammar formatting and takes similar detail on the different forms of regular and irregular verb conjugations. Continuing on the book outlines widely-used nouns, adjectives, adverbs, and pronouns. Many sections and subsections are found within the pages; Verbs & Their Conjugations, Nouns & Possession, Places Near & Far are the longest, but other, smaller, ones follow. https://lingojam.com/NaumariavTranslator The final page of the translator has a diagram explaining how the different date names Published by Baruch & Kortrevich Publishing Revised by Juliyus Kortrevich

A Pocket Naumarian-Common Translation for the Adventurous Compiled by Otto Kortrevich Compiler’s Note Naumarian is the language of the Haeseni people and gives a voice to the soul of the North. When I had the opportunity to be taught in school, Common certainly was the major language, however, Naumarian was still taught. These days it is used far less, however, I have run into a growing number of individuals pursuing a stronger relationship with our traditions. Haeseni Literature The Kingdom of Haeseni-Ruska has a full and well-documented history for any who share an equal interest in learning it as they do this language. The greatest resource for compiled Haeseni literature is the Work Directory, which is wonderfully kept up to date by the Brotherhood of Sigismund and the Society of Saint Everard. The index can be found in the Alimar Memorial Library in the Grand City of New Reza, as well as many of the great libraries within the Holy Oranian Empire. As this is a translation guide, you may also be interested in its roots. A great volume of the words is pulled from Karl Kautsky’s A Dictionary and Etymology of the New Marian Language. For those interested in the culture of our kingdom, I highly suggest reading Haeseni Mythologie from Otto the Tarcharman. It is a good long read for sitting and when twisted slightly makes a fantastic story for children. If history is what you are after, the notes on my cousin The Life of Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich, by myself, tell the great story of not only Ser Nikolaus but also a glimpse into the Kortrevich house. For even more history, many of the noble families make an effort to report their efforts and tribulations. Following the Compiler’s note and the brief note on Haeseni literature, the translation guide begins. It makes sure to be highly specific on the grammar formatting and takes similar detail on the different forms of regular and irregular verb conjugations. Continuing on the book outlines widely-used nouns, adjectives, adverbs, and pronouns. A section is dedicated to relationship words, explaining that there are so many because of the cultural emphasis on birth order. Translation Pages The final page of the translator has a circular diagram explaining how the Imperial dates convert to the Haense dates.

THE LIFE OF SER NIKOLAUS KORTREVICH “The Most Distinguished Man to Live” By: Otto Kortrevich “A bull doesn’t concern himself with the opinions of cattle like yourself, Rodrik.” -Nikolaus to Rodrik Kortrevich, 1750 EARLY LIFE CHILDHOOD Nikolaus; born as Nikolaus Halldor, son of my uncle Henrik and aunt Lilliana. From the young beginnings of his childhood, Nikolaus held a tenacious bond with his father more so than his mother. He took prominent appreciation in his father’s expertise in swordsmanship which would later pivot his life in the direction that would land himself years subsequently. Throughout his adolescence he became well-educated on the simple fundamentals of wielding a blade, footwork and drawing a bow & arrow. His enthusiasm was mutual with myself, who together spent a great deal of time with each other as both of our fathers were distinguished within the first order of the Brotherhood of Saint Karl; both of which held the rankings of Master-at-Arms. Training amongst the four of us was commonplace during our early adolescent years as we fervently continued to get better at what we enjoyed most. Several hardships were inevitable and that laid true during both mine and Nikolaus’ childhoods, the major known conflicts that occurred at the time were the ever continuous Vaeyl Wars and The Third Atlas Coalition War among the two of them the Siege of Nordengrad (c. 1690) would take the lives of both my father and uncle. An already stalwart bond between the two of us later strengthened following our fathers passings. After numerous years following the deaths of the renown, heroic warriors of Lukas and Henrik, both Nikolaus and I sought to continue our common interest in following the footsteps of our esteemed fathers. By the time we reached the ages of eighteen[Nikolaus] and twenty-one[Otto] we quickly enlisted ourselves into the Brotherhood of Saint Karl under the direct commandment of Lord Marshal Rhys var Ruthern. Within prompt fashion, we rose through the ranks as we became distinguished in the brotherhood and made our names known amongst our fellow brothers. [see ‘Rise Through The Ranks’] MARRIAGE Through years of training a part of the Brotherhood and defensively taking part in countless raids and skirmishes against the Red City of Markev, the thought of marriage never came across his mind for a foreseeable acquisition but that opinion would soon shift when he was introduced to Lotte. On his excursion to the Imperial capital of Carolustadt he and I made way to the capital in aspiration to register to vote for the Imperial Parliamentary Elections of 1703. Upon our arrival to the capital of The Empire of Man both myself and Nikolaus would later be introduced to Lotte Rosendale who was merely a medic pondering the streets at the time. Soon after the meeting amongst the three of us, I suggested taking the conversation to the nearby tavern at the forefront of the city. Quickly thereafter, Nikolaus and Lotte would soon become well-acquainted and as time progressed their bond grew ever closer which would ultimately lead them to marriage the following winter. The wedding had a good showing as it was open to the general populace of Haense, featuring the attendance of His Majesty, King Robert I and Her Majesty, Queen Elizaveta with the added guard battalion of the Brotherhood and the Knights of Bihar presiding which featured the presence of notable figures like; Ser Henrik Ludovar, Ser Varon Kovachev, Ser Dominic Grimm and Ser Bjolfr Nord. The marriage between the two was unlike any other but faced victim to turmoil as any other marriage does but nevertheless their bond remained lusty and strengthened every day as their family began to grow day by day. BEGINNINGS OF HOUSE KORTREVICH The House of Kortrevich: ( Common: Kortrevich, High Imperial: Kortrevinus ) The House Of Kortrevich was once divided between two families; the Haldors and the Blackwoods up until it was revealed the two families had common relatives. Following this revelation made by my uncle Elijah Haldor, the two families assumed the common surname- Kortrevich{Kortrevinus}. Ever since the family’s first establishment in the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, the ménage has played a significant role apart from the Royal Military where we once held a rather large host of men and women who too bore the colors of Black & Gold. Since the dawn of the famed legends of my father and my uncle our family has held rankings such as Master-At-Arms up through Kaptain until my generation of the family arrived and embarked on our own ventures and aspirations. The generation of my kin would be the very individuals who would continue to hold a large presence in the Royal military and seek to obtain knighthoods, political positions and direct oversight in the Royal government that resided in the Dual-Monarchy. It was only shortly after our family made our name widely known which would be rewarded by the titular enfeoffment of the Barony of Koravia by His Majesty, King Marius I, following our leal service to the crown and the insurmountable amount of due diligence in regards to leading the Kingdom’s army, Kingdom’s knightly system and help aid the Kingdom’s very function within the Duma halls. Our household itself has continued to praise the idealism of remaining committed to the crown and ever-fervent to serving the crown directly by any means necessary. [see ‘House Kortrevich’ post for more information] (*coming soon*) “I’m not questioning your honor nor your merit, Darius. I’m denying its existence outright.” -Nikolaus to Darius Ault, 1699 The Siege of Arberrang, 1691 RISE THROUGH THE RANKS When Nikolaus and I were of our adolescent years we looked to be enlisted soldiers in the Brotherhood of St. Karl in the likes of our fathers. It was only until Nikolaus reached eighteen years of age and I, twenty-one years of age where we would actually be recruited by the young Prince Marius and Lord Jakob Ludovar himself and bare the colors of Black & Gold. Our rise through the rankings was swift in fashion as our expertise with swords in hand outmatched those less skilled. Nikolaus took particular liking to being on the direct front-lines while on the contrary I took to rising through the ranks to become an enlisted officer and have oversight from the rear-lines. Our household during this period of time had a large presence in the standing military at the time which garnered us the respect of the already established nobility houses that have stood for generations. Nikolaus and I continued to rise through the ranks and receive promotions up through till I was granted the honor of being named Lord Marshal by His Majesty, King Robert I for eighteen years where at that point, Nikolaus sought to finally achieve knighthood and bring honor to the House once more. From the very beginning, where both Nikolaus and I were young children, our aspirations were common but despite this being the case we both chose different yet similar paths which would land ourselves years subsequently. KNIGHTHOOD Ever since Nikolaus was but a mere teenager his aspiration to become a Knight became well-known to that of his friends and family. Nikolaus, while fortunate to be born into a rather large common-born household wasn’t privileged to the natural-born right to squire and because of this he sought to prove himself by any means necessary. Varon Kovachev, the incumbent Paramount Knight at the time was one Nikolaus sought to personally prove his worth to yet, it was only until His Majesty, King Robert I himself placed a set of quests and adorous trials for Nikolaus to complete for him to then later be recognized years later by the populace of Haense as a Northern Knight of Hanseti-Ruska. WARS & BATTLES ★= Commanding role Third Atlas Coalition War: >Siege of Arberrang (1691) >Siege of Kal’Tarak (1692) Vaeyl Wars: >Battle of Last Hope ★ (1704) War of the Two Emperors: ( 1715 - 1721 ) >Battle of Upper Rodenburg ★ >Battle of Lower Rodenburg >Battle of Helena Fields >Siege of Helena ★ >Battle of the Rivers >Battle of Leuven >Second Battle of Leuven >Battle of Silversea >Battle of Koengswald Three-Month War: ( 1725 ) >Battle of Tal’Short >Second Battle of Tal’Short Lorrarinian Revolt: ( 1729 - 1730 ) >Siege of Guise ★ War of Orcish submission: ( 1731 - 1737 ) >Siege of Krugland Rubern War: ( 1740 - Present ) >Battle of Hangman’s Bridge >Battle of Reza “Never forget who you are. The rest of the world will not. Wear it like armor, and it can never be used to impair you.” -Nikolaus to Ulric Vyronov, 1716 The Siege of Helena, 1716 THE TROUBLES RODRIK’S BETRAYAL Upon the eruption of The War of the Two Emperors, our cousin Rodrik had his allegiances swayed in full support towards the Imperium Renatum as opposed to his sworn oath and once full-fledged support towards the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, the very Kingdom he himself swore to protect. Following this revelation to the populace of Haense, the once praised Knight Paramount was perceived entirely differently and was now sought to be an oath breaker and one not to be trusted in the slightest of means. Immediate backlash from the denizens of Reza was imminent towards our House as the once esteemed Knighted figure was in actuality part of our nobility household; the Kortrevich ménage. Several prominent figures who dealt with the backlash first hand were; myself, Nikolaus, Duncan, Erik and Martin but from other perspectives within the family, this sudden betrayal of Rodrik’s saw changes in the way some members of the family lived- Sarah, Lotte, Primrose, Emaline and Arabella took more heedful precaution when travelling within side the city and took notable wariness when obligated to travel outside the city to the noble landings of Ayr and Nenzing. Among the many challenges that occurred throughout Nikolaus’ long life, this among any other obstacle was one that would later pivot the outlook on the future of the family. ROYAL ORDER FOR THE APPREHENSION OF RODRIK Rodrik, the incumbent Knight Paramount of Haense at the time before his betrayal was one of if not King Marius’ closest confidantes which was known as Rodrik took attendance in many of the Aulic council meetings during his short-tenure. With this being said, when Rodrik’s allegiance swayed entirely to that of the Imperium Renatum it was imminent that our House would undergo an insurmountable amount of backlash as the once esteemed Knighted figure bared the names of turncoat and traitor by the denizens of Reza at the time. Nikolaus while recently being promoted as Knight Paramount following both Rodrik’s betrayal and the unfortunate death of Ser Dominic Grimm it was Nikolaus’ task as Rodrik’s cousin to carry out the charge demanded by His Majesty, ‘to return Rodrik back to Haense where he’ll receive the proper punishment for treason against the crown’. The order itself came from the words of King Marius and would finally be fulfilled thirty-years subsequently when the two estranged cousins’ crossed paths for a final time. [see ‘Fulfilling a Promise’ for continuation] TUTELAGE OF RODRIK’S CHILDREN Following Rodrik’s immediate dismissal of his own kin during The War of the Two Emperors, Rodrik’s own children were kept under captivity under his sole guardianship. His mind was severely clouded which serves as adequate reasoning for him not allowing his own wife, the mother of his two children the ability to cater to them and raise them amongst a loving family in Haense as opposed to the war-riddled city of Helena under the guardianship of solely Rodrik and his twin brother; Cassius. Each of our family members, especially Nikolaus made it their priority to eventually retrieve the children from captivity despite the ongoing war that scarred the Arcasian plains. It was only a matter of time that Rodrik would retort something in response to the many missives sent by Nikolaus and the family and soon enough upon one early morning two dragon knights arrived swiftly to the gates of Reza on horseback where the two Kortrevich children and one barbanov bastard could be seen being pulled by the trio of stallions. The escort was not in the slightest bit small as accompanied with the two dragon knights, an entire battalion of Red Knights and Ordermen from the Order of the Red Dragon surrounded the escort all the way from the imperial capital of Helena to ensure their safe arrival. Upon their arrival to Reza the children were quickly placed in front of the gates where a singular guard then shouted to the nearest guardsmen in Reza: “Call for Ser Nikolaus, these children are of Kortrevich blood and Ser Rodrik wishes for their utmost amount of safety. . . Ensure they are brought to the hands of Nikolaus.” [!] Attached to one of the children’s baskets would be a tattered parchment signed by his Imperial Excellency, Ser Rodrik Jozsef Kortrevich, "I, Rodrik of Kortrevich hereby give full tutelage of my children to my cousin Nikolaus of Kortrevich, current Knight Paramount of Haense - this message will arrive sooner or later, but I might already be gone, I've sailed, away from this realm, away from this war and away from the fray - I care for the safety of my children and I understand that even after what has happened you all do as-well, The deal is very simple, you may raise them, teach them your ways and treat them as yours, but if anything happens to them, or I hear that they're being treated ill and they do not feel safe with you, the Imperial Crown of the Kingdom of Cascadia shall retrieve them. In brief. allow them to explore, teach them of the perils, but more than anything - let them be free." “So many promises…they make you vow to uphold. Defend the sovereign. Obey the king. Preserve his confidence. Do his bidding. Your life for his. But obey your father. Love your sister. Protect the innocent. Safeguard the weak. Respect the Gods. Be law-abiding. It’s too much. No matter what you do, you’re forsaking one vow over another.” -Nikolaus to Otto Kortrevich, 1706 Lotte Kortrevich laying on her deathbed, 1729 HEARTBREAK DEATH OF LOTTE, 1729 Among the many things that Nikolaus was met with during his life, the death of his dear wife Lotte was one that struck him like no other. Their marriage had its hardships and blessings but one thing that remained true up and till the end was their mutual love for eachother and their children they brought into the world. The eternal bond between the two was recognized by their kinsmen and the extended families abroad which ultimately made her truly one that was arduous to leap over for all who knew her closely. While the tailend of their ever-fruitful relationship did encounter sour turns they remained resilient with each other for the sake of their children, even if that meant for them to live apart from each other for years at end. Both Nikolaus and Lotte had their evident flaws that I personally can list out but despite these flaws at every corner moment they sought to deal with them and overcome the many obstacles that covered their common path. By the end of Lotte’s joyous life, she remembered nought but the few names of those closest to her; Nikolaus and Primrose which saddened her to the longest ends. I myself grew a deep sense of sadness when the day arose when Lotte, a good friend of mine, my cousin’s wife, didn't recall who I was. Despite her sickness, Lotte’s passing was peaceful where she bore no physical harm but the harm of heartbreak. Her death transcended quickly through word of mouth where the likes of many who knew her tried to comprehend the reality that was in front of them. Nikolaus most of all along with his two daughters, Primrose and Emaline were in complete disbelief but ultimately came to a common understanding of what she sacrificed and accomplished throughout her simple life. Memories would be shared but the lasting impact of Nikolaus’ only love ascended to the skies that flew above further struck him down to a pitiful sense of hopelessness as the wars still raged on and saw no end in foreseeable sight. EXECUTION OF ERIK, 1725 Following the unfortunate death of Ser Ulric Vyronov, Erik would soon be held accountable for his death and brought to trial on the felony charge of Involuntary Manslaughter. After the quick guilty verdict by the Lord Justicar; Ser Gerard Stafyr would sentence Erik to death. Just following the verdict was declared to the general public, Nikolaus made an urgent plea to Andrik to be the one to carry out the sentence as he didn’t want to witness his cousin publicly executed in front of what would’ve been a large turnout of commonborn and nobleborn alike witnessing a man pay for his crimes. Andrik would graciously agree to Nikolaus’ request and soon enough moments later Erik was carried down to the cells in the guardhouse district with the assistance of Prince Otto Sigmar and Lord Lerald Vyronov. [4] (embedded link to map) where he then faced his sentence while letting out no last words before his execution. Years subsequent to Erik’s execution, Nikolaus’ initial reaction to his cousin’s beheading was demoralizing to see witness to. While Erik and Nikolaus did not retain a close bond they too were in fact cousins connected by blood which made it truly difficult for Nikolaus to overcome what he was entrusted to do. I noticed a change in his disposition also immediately as he began to remain distant towards his kin which grabbed my attention, the families attention and eventually the King’s attention which resulted in his removal as Royal Executioner after it was made abundantly clear he was in no place to be entrusted with that responsibility. The position itself remained vacant up until Lord Karl Vyronov took seating as the Royal Executioner until he himself was killed and the position remained vacant until recently, where Ser Jonathan Frostfire now stands. KNIGHTLY RECONSTRUCTION Well before Nikolaus took seating as Paramount Knight in Haense, the knightly orders were in a state of royal disarray as they all saw no clear structure and most importantly had no real basis on how exactly a man or woman achieves knighthood. Nikolaus saw immediately the condition of the knightly structure in Haense and sought to completely rework it to an adequate working condition. His first task of business was to clearly outline how one man or woman is able to be knighted. Soon after he outlined how exactly one achieves knighthood he made it well aware to King Andrik that he had avid interest in establishing a new Knightly Order within Haense that acted as a separate entity from the Marian Retinue which would take precedence as the primary Knightly Order in Haense as opposed to before having just the King’s royal guard in function. Nikolaus worked with many people to accomplish his aspirations. Among the lengthy list includes; King Robert I, King Marius II, King Andrew III, King Andrew IV, the grand knights of the deplorable Ser Darius Ault, the vile Ser Uthred Gromach and finally the righteous Ser Dominic Grimm. The many changes Nikolaus would make to the knightly structure in Haense would influence the other human nations and directly influence the construction of new ones under Nikolaus’ personal advice. [see. The Order of the Crow for more information] “THE ORDER OF THE CROW” KNIGHTLY OBLIGATIONS EDICT BOOK OF THE MARIAN RETINUE REAFFIRMATION OF OATHS "You think my life is such a valuable thing to me, that I would trade my merit for a few more years... of what exactly?" -Nikolaus to Rodrik Kortrevich, 1750 The Kortrevichbowl, 1750 FULFILLING A PROMISE Thirty years had passed since the conclusion of the War of the Two Emperors but no remorse was shown by our cousins, Rodrik and Cassius following their betrayal that would lead to the demise of hundreds. Out of all of us who sought to seek revenge for the treacherous actions Rodrik inflicted on the family and the greater Kingdom, it was Nikolaus who was tasked to apprehend the traitor and bring him either dead or alive to the Royal City of Reza on King Marius’ due directive. Decades would pass and the promise taken in my Nikolaus would be forsaken as the war neared its end where Rodrik eventually embarked away from the fray, and away from the likes of his kin. As the coward he was this was a given but nevertheless Nikolaus never sought to forsake his vow he took oh so many years ago. Many missives sent by myself, Duncan, Erik, Martin, Alexander, Sarah and even the likes of my nieces; Primrose and Emaline sent missives to Rodrik where we all plead and demanded he return to his homeland and face the countless punishments for his crimes so our family could finally seek closure. It was only till one day where Rodrik obtained a missive by Nikolaus himself which would finally lead the old-Imperial Knight to beckon his armor once more and ride north to his homeland. [see ‘Summoning a Sojourner’ for continuation] SUMMONING A SOJOURNER A handful of years had passed since the final missive was sent but eventually the arrival of Rodrik would soon stand outside the towering walls of Fort Korstadt. The host of men on either side of the wall stood still as the two estranged cousins shared few words before they would eventually sheath blades of their own and deal out justice for a final time. A period of time later would pass where the two bodies of Rodrik and Nikolaus laid; soon after the fight the garrisoned host of Brotherhood foot soldiers sallied out to motion for Rodrik’s once closest compatriots to disperse. Out of everything that I’ve experienced throughout my long life, to witness my two cousins bring each other to their pitiful end is among the many experiences I will naught forget. Nikolaus lived a fair life, one that retains more accomplishments than many well-renown field-commanders of the past. His legacy will forever live on and be remembered forevermore by the likes of our kin and our nation. Nikolaus and I shared our bountiful amounts of arguments but never did we leave a conversation without a smile on either of our faces. May Nikolaus be remembered as one of the most illustrious men to ever live. May Nikolaus be remembered for his many achievements. May Nikolaus be remembered for every vow he never forsook. My cousin, may he be remembered for the love he shared with his dear wife, Lotte and the family he raised despite his prolonged duties as the Paramount Knight for over thirty-years. My cousin, may he be remembered as one of the most honorable knights in Haense to ever bare the colors of Black and Gold. . Ave Nikolaus, Ave Haense. [see ‘Kortrevichbowl’ for more information] KORTREVICHBOWL “It's the family name that lives on. It's all that lives on. Not your honor, not your personal glory, family.” -Nikolaus to Primrose & Emaline Kortrevich, 1748 Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich “The Strong” (1680 - 1750) Knight Paramount of Haense (1716 - 1750) FULL TITLE The titles of Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich were; The Right Honorable, Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich, Knight Paramount of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, Commandant Knight of the Marian Retinue, Meyster Knight of the Order of the Crow, Royal Champion of King Andrew III. Published by the House of Kortrevich Written by Otto Kortrevich

As Otto saw the last essence of Ulric’s being fade, he brought his chest compressions to a soft end. He stayed at the young man, the one he watched grow and marry his sweet niece, he gazed at his face and its wide eyes. With a quick motion, the Kortrevich used a pair of fingers and put the Knights eyes to a final rest, leaving his face red with the blood on Otto’s hands. He stood up from his crouched position, darting his vision around the room until he could find the brother of the fallen. Locking onto Lord Lerald, he stared blankly, only allowing a single word to break the silence, “How...”. After a quick moment, allowing the brother to gaze upon the body, Otto spoke once again, this time motioning the cross while he did so, “Iv Joveo Maan, may Ser Ulric Vyranov, first of his name, friend to many, father to few, Knight Protector of the Keong Andrik and his Realm, be rested peacefully for his duties are now released”. At that Otto left the cellar where they had all been, through the gates and out of Graiswald towards Reza.