AutumnSoul

High up in the mountains of Arcas an ancient woman from a time long since past, but not completely forgotten, stands upon the ridges of the stoney peaks as she looks down to the vast valleys below in deep thought. Today was the day in which she had always known would come, although she had hoped it would be long after she ascended into the Heavens. The news of Curonias fate was saddening to her since the nation had been her home for over 100 years. It had been where she grew up, where she learned, where her children had been born….. Curonia had been her whole life. Now that the nation she had given so many years of her life to and shared so many memories with was gone, she felt as if the last pieces of her strength had crumbled away overnight. 

She knew she was not the only one who was feeling this way. For those who loved Curonia as she had, for those who now felt betrayed, angry, and abandoned; something needed to be said. So, using what little energy she had left in her tired body, and with the help of her great grandchildren and their children, the ancient Curonian woman decided to write a letter to all those who now felt as she. 

”To the sons and daughters of the Bear’s Domain, 

     Today marks the end of a legacy. With the stroke of a pen your leader has bowed and prostrated themselves fully to the will of the ever growing and powerful Imperial government. To many this shall come as a shock like it has to me for Curonia seemed to be thriving in its last few years due to its newly appointed government and its influx of new and hopeful citizens. However, these hopeful and inspiring times did not seem to be enough to stop the imperial guillotine from finally swinging down upon the head of our nation.

Today shall be a day in which it is remembered that our nation has once more, as it has in times long since past, come to an end. Yes, we shall weep and yes, we shall mourn the loss of the city and lands many of us were born and raised upon. Once more our lands are taken from us. Once more by forces not of our own accord since this is not a decision that was, in my mind and I'm sure many of others,  a plot born out of pure imperial machination and desire for further domination and centralization. No true Curonian would ever freely bend to the will of Imperial pressure. Nor would a true Curonain ever agree to such demands and schemes, thus the man who led this nation, Sylvester Halcourt, is no true Curonian in my eyes.

Today marks the start of an era in which our people are without a true home once more. I remember in the days of old, back in the times of Wilhelm I Devereux, how this feeling felt. We were nothing more than a bunch of lost souls, men and women of a previous failed nation destroyed by ignorance and short sight. Though we differed in viewpoints, in looks, and in many other ways, what kept us together, what made us strong was always the fact that each and every one of us believed in one another. We believed in our history, in our love for one another, in our fight to survive and to create a home that all past, present and future sons and daughters of the bear could call home and be proud of. This is because back then, and still today we believed that no Curonian should ever be subject to living in a land that was not of their own people.

Believe in this dream sons and daughters of the Green Tide. Curonia may be gone for now but that does not mean it shall always remain so. Together you are strong and together you can create a new legacy for our people. Today marked the end of our legacy, the legacy of Wilhelm I Devereux, of Edward Devereux, of Ser Graham Milner, of myself and all others who came before. Learn from our achievements but also learn from our mistakes as you all go forth from this day. Take time to collect yourselves and once that is done emerge united and strong. Emerge as the true Curonian front that never has, nor ever shall truly perish within the realms of humanity. 

Our legacy, the legacy of the old guard, the sons and daughters of Wilhelm I Devereux has come to an end. Yet, today marks the start of a new legacy; your legacy. What it shall be, who shall lead it, and what becomes of the Curonian people is uncertain. However, I believe in you all. I have always believed in you all. My life was lived as a steadfast servant to a cause, a nation and a people that I believed in with every inch and piece of my heart and soul. I hope that you all too shall find this dedication and love for whoever and whatever comes in this next chapter that has started within the never ending book that is Curonia and its people.
 

Together we shall always stand united. Never shall we let the forces of those who would see us thrown asunder truly rip us apart. Together we rise upon the emerald fields of our ancient homelands; together we are Curonia. Long live the Bears Domain! Long live her people! and long live the Green Tide!” 

-Klaudia Grimoire
 

The Bear’s Decree of 1747

15th Tobias’s Bounty, 1747

It has come to the attention of His Royal Highness, Wilhelm II Edward Devereux that several pretenders have risen up within the lands of the Empire who falsely claim to be of the same lineage and pedigree of the House Devereux. 

In order to preserve the integrity of the Royal family and ensure these inferior deceivers are caught in their petty acts of fraudulence, His Royal Highness as patriarch of the House Devereux does hereby set forth the following decree: 

On the matter of the children sired by Wilhelm I Alfred Devereux and Evelyn Devereux nee Falkenrath, we do proclaim that all children, with the exemption of His Highness, Prince Edward II Devereux to be deceased.


On the matter of children sired by Jarrack I Devereux and Katheryna Devereux nee Barbanov, we do proclaim that the only children ever to be sired by His Royal Majesty, King Jarrack are the Princess Ester Rose Devereux and  King Alfred II Edgar Devereux, both of whom produced no legitimate children with the name of Devereux before their deaths.

On the matter of the children sired by His Highness, Ecbert Devereux and Natalia Remiel Devereux nee Halcourt, we do proclaim that only children ever to be sired by His Royal Highness, Prince Ecbert to be King Pierce I Devereux and Princess Sarah Devereux, both of whom are sanctioned as deceased.


On the matter of Her Highness, Sarah Devereux we do proclaim that no legitimate children bearing the last name of Devereux were conceived before her death.

On the matter of children sired by Her Highness, Anabel Lisette Devereux and Romulus Cascadia, we do proclaim that no offspring born from their marriage hold legitimate claim to the name of Devereux. We do decree that Godfrey II and his descendants, John VII and his descendants, and Lorena Empress Consort and her descendants shall never hold rights or claims to the crown, throne, titles, and lands of Curonia.

On the matter of  Marianne Devereux, we do proclaim that that no legitimate children bearing the last name of Devereux were conceived before her death.

On the matter of Everett Devereux, we do proclaim that no legitimate children bearing the last name of Devereux were conceived before his death. 

In this we do decree,

His Royal Highness, Wilhelm II Edward Devereux, Governor-General of Curonia, Prince of Curonia and Evreux, Duke of Curon and Umbra, Count of Albion, Arbor, Avalain, Blackreach, & Cyrilsburg, Baron of Alsace, Arisan, Frosthold, Rivia, & Vasile, Lord of Bear Mountain & Blackden

The Curonian Heritage Act of 1747

4th of Owyns's Light 1747

His Royal Highness, Wilhelm II Edward Devereux, Governor-General of Curonia does hereby see fit to bring forth within the Kingdom of Curonia a new system of governance at both a local and national degree. His Highness, the Governor-General recognizes the attempts of his predecessor, Her Royal Highness, Princess Ester Rose Devereux to bring forth a breath of new life into the nation by reforming the nation’s government into a system in which relies heavily upon Imperial design and influence. However, this previous system has long been poorly implemented and the quarry of countless accounts of ridicule and contempt by many within our proud nation for its stench of foreign animus.  

Therefore, in order to bring back true order to his Kingdom, and honor the ancestors of the Bear’s Domain, His Highness, Wilhelm II Edward Devereux does hereby abolish all forms of the previous systems of government within the Kingdom of Curonia. 

In his desire to see The Kingdom of Curonia once more brought back into a state in which truly represents not only itself in name but also its culture, history, and people His Highness does hereby establish two new systems of government within the Kingdom. The first form of government shall be the lower of the two, and take shape in the form of democratically elected legislative system of representatives in which vote upon various issues regarding the capital city of Avalain. The second and the higher of the two systems, shall be the Cyrillian Council. By re-establishing this historic system of hand select members to serve on His Highness’s privy he does, therefore, ensure his nation, his people, and crown are guided by those who are capable of the duties bestowed upon them.  

By royal decree, the following positions are hereby established and granted to those individuals who have served the crown dutifully and without fail. 

Chancellor

The role of Chancellor is that of utmost respect and importance in the Kingdom. Often standing in for the Governor-General in meetings, receiving foreign diplomats when His Highness is otherwise occupied, and speaking with the Crown’s authority on all matters of importance.
 

The position of Chancellor is hereby granted to Her Royal Majesty, Julia Devereux, Queen Dowager of Curonia. 

Colonel of the Royal Army

Leader of the armed forces, the Colonel of the Royal Army is the supreme authority in all matters militaristic. They are charged with maintaining a standing military at all times for the Kingdom and protecting its lands and capital from foreign threats. 

The position of Colonel is hereby granted to Lord Rickard Enthelor, Baron of Nohr.

Royal Treasurer

The Royal Treasurer is the master of coin and trade within the Kingdom of Curonia. They are tasked with maintaining, ensuring, and protecting the economic stability and welfare of the realm. All forms of domestic and foreign trade, taxes, tariffs, royal loans & bonds, national interest rates, and so on are all formulated, implemented, and carried out by the Royal Treasurer.

The position of Royal Treasurer is hereby granted to Dame Klaudia Grimoire.

Chamberlain
 

The Chamberlain is the keeper of the Royal Court. They are tasked with arranging and hosting balls, festivals, court sessions, and other stately functions pertaining to palatial administration. All members of the royal court are subject to the Chamberlain’s supervision.

The position of Chamberlain is still open.

High Justiciar

The High Justiciar of the Kingdom of Curonia is the senior-most judicial figure of the nation. They are the foremost legal representative on matters pertaining to Royal interests, and affairs involving the Crown.

The position of High Justiciar is hereby granted to Lord  Tobias Merentel, Duke of Eastmark.  
 

Seneschal

The Seneschal of Curonia is in charge of all forms of housing distribution, city upkeep, city projects, and shop distribution within the City of Avalain. It is through them that the housing needs of the Kingdom are monitored and fulfilled. 

The position of Seneschal is hereby granted to Matthias Rutledge.

Consul

The consul of Curonia is one of the Kingdom’s leading dignitaries for foreign diplomatic communications. The tasks that befall them are subject to the monarch’s will and desire, however, most duties include traveling to both friendly and hostile nations for either delivering messages from the Kingdom and its peerage to another or to better relations between Curonia and foreign powers.

The position of Consul is hereby granted to Ser John D’Arkent.   

The Latgalia

The Avalain Municipal Government, otherwise known as the Latgalia, is the governing body of democratically elected legislators that propose and draft bills for the city of Avalain and the surrounding lands. Each session of the Latgalia lasts two years. 

ELECTIONS & STRUCTURE

The Alcalde serves a term of four years, and is elected by popular vote of the citizens of Avalain. It is their duty to ensure the Municipal Government is well administered, and the city is secure, well kept, and to report and advise on behalf of the citizenry to the Royal Crown. The Alcalde is also the President of the Assembly, and can call the Latgalia to meeting whenever they please. 

The Municipal Government is comprised of four Councillors, each of which is elected by popular vote of the citizens of Avalain. Any citizen of Avalain may run for office, and the four with the most votes are assigned the office.

Citizenship is defined as having more than three years residence in Curon and to hold no offices or titles in any country, be it foreign or in other parts of the Empire. Members of the Cyrillian Cabinet may not run for any office.

ALCALDE: Vacant

COUNCILLOR: Vacant

COUNCILLOR: Vacant

COUNCILLOR: Vacant

COUNCILLOR: Vacant

BILLS

The Municipal Government has the jurisdiction to draft and propose laws with regard to the City of Avalain, exempting those with regard to taxation. A bill passes with a simple majority of the Municipal Council.

The Assembly’s bills only take effect once the Curonian Crown provides assent for that bill. In this way, we prevent anti-Curonian ideals from presenting themselves within its legislative body.

In this we do decree, 

His Royal Highness, Wilhelm II Edward Devereux, Governor-General of Curonia, Prince of Curonia & Evreux, Duke of Curon & Umbra, Count of Albion, Arbor, Avalain, Blackreach, & Cyrilsburg, Baron of Alsace, Arisan, Frosthold, Rivia, & Vasile, Lord of Bear Mountain & Blackden

Klaudia reads over the missive in her office in Avalain and while happy to hear the AIS will them alone for a grace period, she fears about the safety of Wilhelm Edward and the prospects of this meeting

”. . . We must convene the council . . . words proclaiming the recognition of Wilhelm Edward mean little in comparison to the aggressive land grabbing actions the AIS have taken against our nation. With Stauntons, Suffolks, Merentels, and likely the leadership of Morsgrad as well looking to steal our titles, subjugate us to their rules, place imposters on our throne, or entirely annihilate us all together off the face of Arcas . . . . we would do best to stay away from such people. I will give my life if needed to protect our sovereignty and keep the RIGHTFUL rulers of House Devereux on the throne. We shall not be some prized pig for slaughter by the AIS and their affiliates. Our land, people and titles do not belong to them and they shall NEVER belong to them. In the words of the first King I served so many many years ago “ Curonia and its citizens do not BEND nor BOW to any force that dares oppose us”.  

An ancient Curonian woman stands upon the walls of Avalain. Her long gray hair, which she usually kept tied up in a neat style, now fell loose all around her shoulders and back. She stood upon the walls of her homeland, propped up by the help of  her cane and let out a small sigh as the wind from the frozen ocean bays rolled through the air and gently brushed against her. The elder’s pale and tired eyes looked out towards the horizon where the last rays of sunlight peaked above the horizon.

“I have stood upon the walls of my homeland, upon the walls of both Avalain and Cyrilsburg, and seen so many men and women that I have known since their birth pass unto our blessed Seven Skies. I am but the last remnant of the old guard . .  .of the Cyrillians of the past, having long outlived my time upon this world by many many years. Yet, here I still remain. I do not know if it is a true blessing or a curse if I am to be ever truthful.”

Lowering her head the ancient woman tightened her grip upon her cane and closed her eyes

”My dear princess. I was there in court when they announced you were to be born, just as I had been there for your fathers, King Jarrcks, many many years prior. You were never fated to lead our nation,  for many reasons such as your gender and your father’s foolish legacy that almost brought an end to the nation you and I both called home. However, fate is rarely ever carved in stone as you so proved when you became the head of our glorious nation.”

The elder woman raised her head and looked once more over the icy shores of her homeland and watched as the sun sank below the dim horizon

”I had my fears your legacy would be nothing more than a repeat of your pathetic fathers . . . but I it seems I had placed my fears in nothing. Your legacy will be that in which we do not scorn nor be ashamed of. Never shall a Curonian cast your name aside in favor of another. You were a beacon of hope in one of this nations darkest hours. You strove to rebuild that in which your predecessors had let decay, our reputation and honor.”

”Rest now my dear princess. Find peace in that you are the very reason our nation is still alive today and we shall always remember you as one of the greatest rulers our nation has and will ever see.” 

”Perhaps soon I shall join you in the Seven Skies and together we can sit with the Curonians of old, our brothers and sisters, and laugh together as we once did not so long ago. May God Bless your soul my dear Ester and may you find nothing but peace and happiness in the next life.” 
 

An ancient Curonian woman sits in her office within the royal palace of Avalain and laughs at the idiocy of this missive. 

”They claimed the titles of Curon that were given to Wilhelm and ones that are still held within the lands of our nation. I was there the days those titles were bestowed to good Wilhelm, God rest his soul, and find it funny that these pathetic insects must try to claim that which is not theirs for the sake of ego stroking and useless lust for power.”

“My my . . . truely there is something to be said about little men who must rely on claiming titles of other nations . . no no . . . titles of a relevant Kingdom none the less! - to prove their significance in the realms of mankind. I do wonder if they know this just makes themselves look foolish and rather lacking in mental capacity but perhaps that is just a good representation for those who wrote and approved of this missive.” 

To His Excellency, Angelo de Alba, Regent of Curonia and the citizenry of Curonia, 

Word has reached my ears of the events that have fallen within the recent months about the considerable changes that are coming forth within the lands of humanity. While I, for one, was not surprised to find that yet another Empire seems to be on the verge of collapse. I did find it . . . quite baffling to see that the good people of Curonia had decided to declare themselves independent for the sake of self-governing freedom, and all other manners of self-preserving rights that also go along with such a state of government and autonomy. As many of you may know, I had served dutifully, loyally, and with utmost determination to the Kingdom for over seventy or more years until the time of my retirement came about not so long ago. I have seen this nation, the nation I loved and cherished, grow from a County, to a Duchy, and was even there for its transition into a leading powerhouse and dominating Kingdom within the lands of Atlas. 

I fear, however, that the times of Curonia’s widespread influence throughout the realms of mankind has officially come to a close. No longer do the streets of the realm hum with the sounds of life. Barren and cold, they now rest as my dear great-granddaughters tell me from their trips to the city capital. No longer does the military seem active in any way as the barracks, I’m told, are said to be riddled with the befouling sight of cobwebs. I know that it is not easy to lead a military as Curonia has never had the mighty standing army it once had under the command of its greatest leader, Lord Commander Edward Devereux. To think that it has fallen to such a deplorable state is just an insult to not only the memory of the nations founders, but also to the countless men and women who have given their lives in service of the Green Tide decades before.

With either a small or non-existent military, I have to question the stability and ultimate decision of independence. Angelo, I have known you for almost a century, if not more at this point and I count you as one of my oldest and last living friends I have left in this world. For nearly 70 years or more, you and I have helped tend to the garden that is this Kingdom we both had pledged our undying services too back when we were so much younger. Surely you must see the hurdles that lay ahead of you. The nation is dying if not on its last breath. There is no need to beat around the bushes for you, I, and anyone else can and have been able to tell such for many years now. Are you so sure declaring independence was the wisest decision when the only other Imperial vassal to do such was Suffonia to my recollection? What of Haense? You leave our allies without aid in their time of need. That is not the Curonian way I know and personally follow. 
 

Yes, I know the relations between Haense and Curon have never been great and it was really only under King Pierce that they were forged anew and strengthened, but still is there no standing principle in protecting those who are allied to you? Also, why do you trust that the leadership of Morsgrad will follow through with any sort of pact you make with them? How long ago was it we treated them as threats to our nation due to the hostile actions they took not only to our citizenry but to our nation as a whole? Why do you make pacts with the men and women who threatened our sovereignty not so long ago? Who is to say you are nothing more than just a little puppet in their plot to bring down an empire that, like all previous incarnations of the Norlandic people and nation, strive for nothing more than Imperial division and destruction. I warn you, the relationship between a puppet and its master is a very one-sided relationship Angelo. The strings that hold it in place are so thin the slightest change in wind can snap them in two and then what is a puppet without strings to move it? Worthless and disposable. 

On a similar note, for how long has the legacy of Curonia been tainted with the brands of treachery and backstabbing? Do you not just prove to all those who already think of it as a place of weak-minded scum who turn on allies at the tip of a hat that they are proven right in their thinking? I fear for you and the nation should you lose your gambit and the tides of this war turn in favor of Oren and its forces. The damage you and your administration have done by this move could very well spell out the direct end of Curonia and its people. How many times can a nation be trusted when at every other opportunity they seem to betray their oaths and swing in favor of the side who promises them shrouded glimpses of prosperity and honey words of a far-off paradise? 

For his whole reign His Majesty, King Pierce spent his time skillfully and tactfully improving the image of Curonia. He did such, not for personal gain but for the betterment of Curonia and its people. He did such to wash away the dark stain that befouled our nation’s image and reputation amongst the other nations of humanity. Yet in a single day, with a single act, you have managed to wash away all of his hard work and efforts. If the King, God bless and watch over him and his family, could still move and speak I assure you he would be less than pleased. I know I would should my whole legacy go up in flames by another who took no care in thinking of those who came before him and the impact of his actions.

I will freely admit that I do not know the factors that drove you and your council to make this decision since I am now several years retired from my role as a leader of our beloved nation. Yet, my time as a councilor was long and I know that the Imperial government is one of the most corrupt systems there is in humanity. There is always the fear that the Empire will turn its back on its vassals, which many have proven to do so in the past, and or cause nothing but strife for one of its vassals until it complies with its demands. However, I am not sure abandoning an Empire for the sake of joining a barbaric group who will surely cause the formation of another Empire in due time is the wisest maneuver. Is it truly better to be free when you, I, and so many others all know the time will soon come when Curonia is placed yet again under the heels of another Imperial administration? Or even worse, perhaps the next Empire will not include a Curonia for those who lead will not wish for it to exist. Perhaps I am wrong and the men and women of Morsgrad will not cause irreparable harm to our beloved nation but their actions of the past and of the present seem to speak a much louder and clearer opposite note. Whatever the outcome of this war is to be, I pray for the survival of Curonia and citizens and I pray you will not lead this nation down a path of further death and destruction. 

Lastly, as I stand here, on the beaches of the southern portion of Arcas, ready to board a ship that will take me away from the comings and goings of these lands I wish to think I shall return when my time has come to draw my last breath, surrounded by friends and family before I ascend to the blessed skies above and see that Curon is still standing and all that I now worry about has come to pass. It perhaps is selfish, but I wish to be buried within the lands I call my home, laid to rest in the tombs of my fellow Curonian brothers and sisters and buried under the halls of those who I wish nothing more than prosperity, peace, happiness, and love. I believe this to be one of the greatest accomplishments at the end of one’s life. To not only be buried with those you love and care for, in life and in death but to also be laid to rest where it matters most; at home. Do not squander this opportunity for future generations Angelo. The men and women of our nation need not only a homeland to live but one in which they can be buried in when their time upon these lands comes to close. No Curonian should ever be without a place to call home and no Curonian should ever be buried in a place that is not that of their ancestors, a place that is not home.

-Klaudia Grimoire

Trivia Night in the Bear’s Domain

An exciting night of fun and entertainment is happening very soon within the Kingdom of Curonia! The action-packed event will see competing teams face off against one another, going head to head in a battle of wits and intelligence. Questions will be centered around the vast history of the Descendent races and their many notable historical figures, achievements, downfalls, etc.  

The game will be set up in a tournament-style fashion where the teams shall be split up into varying brackets. Each time a game is completed, the winners of a round shall progress upwards into the next round of the winner's bracket and the losing team shall be placed into the losing bracket. At the very end, the team who wins the victors bracket and the team who wins the losing bracket shall face-off, head to head, in order to claim victory and earn for themselves the 5,000 mina cash prize! 

Requirements to enter the competition:

A team of 3 members must be submitted to the following form (at the bottom of the page) before 3pm EST on Saturday, September 28th. Any teams who submit more or less than 3 team members and or any team who complete the registration form after the 3pm EST deadline will not be allowed to compete!

A team name must be selected and given on the doc to be used in the competition. (Meme names are fine just keep it pg-13 folks. Anything deemed inappropriate will result in the team members being disqualified and or unable to compete in the competitions.)

A team captain must be chosen for the whole team. (This is purely for OOC reasons such as to communicate with the team before and during the event. The team captain will be asked to give their discord username in the form.)

OOC Note: Only the team captain needs to fill out the form below. They will provide all the information needed for the rest of their team.

Team Registration Link: https://forms.gle/uppoPowUmiRwTrsp8  

 

OOC Information

Date: Saturday, September 28th

Time: 5pm EST

Location: City Square of Curonia

Fifth Alcalde Elections of Curonia

c.1734

With the four-year term of Alcalde Margueritte Ironwood coming to a close,  the diplomatic season has descended upon the great nation of Curonia once more. The position of Alcalde is one of clear renown and note in the city, with many great leaders taking up the mantel and getting their first steps into the roles of leading figureheads within the Kingdom. The office of Alcalde is required to perform many tasks for the Kingdom of Curonia and its’ people. As the prime pathway for citizens to communicate to the Council, The office has many responsibilities which include the following:

• Stewardry: Manage housing under the supervision of the Seneschal. 

• Shop Management: Aid in leasing & managing shops.

• Receive & process opinions on Curonia and its’ Council

• Host events each saint week in Avalain. 

  • (If at least one event is not hosted each saint week, the Alcalde will be dismissed from their position and new elections will be held in order to find a candidate who can meet these requirements) 

Do you have aspirations to support the Kingdom & Citizens of Curonia?

In four Saint’s Days, each aspirant will be given the opportunity to present a speech to the populace of Curonia. After this, the people shall elect the candidate they feel is best suited for the position of Alcalde. 

If you wish to submit your candidacy, please inform the Council by submitting your speech for approval. 

OOC Information

Date of Speeches: Friday, 27th of September in the Square of Avalain at 6:30PM EST

Date of Election: Immediately following speeches

Sign up below with the following information

RP Name:

Username:

Discord:

Standing upon the walls of Avalain, Klaudia would have her gaze pointed across the icy waters to where the lands of Morsgrad lay. The elder Dame leaned heavily on the white glowing orb of her cane which she had planted directly before her. A thin frown emerged on her aged face. 

”You say you act in honor of the Empire by threatening the men and women of this city with violence. Yet, what kind of honor is that of those who break the pacts that bind them to non-aggression? Next time think before you act, or perhaps thinking is too hard for the men and women of Morsgrad.”

A few moments pass and a sudden dry chuckle escapes the elder woman’s throat  

“Perhaps that is why those of the descendants of Norland and its different variations never survive. They simply lack the capacity to think.” 

A Queen’s Court

With her pregnancy now over and a healthy son born, Her Majesty, Queen Julia Devereux of Curonia has decided to rejoin the Royal Courts and once again take her seat beside her husband, the King.

In her return to court, Queen Julia knows that many of her former ladies-in-waiting were no longer present within the walls of Avalain. Most of the young women had requested the Queen’s consent on various marriage proposals while she had been away tending to her pregnancy. Seeing this as an issue, the Queen has called forth for her aids to bring word throughout the lands of Arcas that Her Majesty is in search for new women, noble or common, who wish to serve under the royal crown.

A special session of court hosted directly by Her Majesty, the Queen, is being held within the walls of the royal palace. It will be here that the young women, or their families, of the realms may step forth before the Queen and directly petition Her Majesty, in the hopes of gaining her favor and allowing them the chance to work in such a prestigious position within the royal courts.

While under the care of Her Majesty, the ladies-in-waiting of the court shall receive only the finest of educations and also gain immeasurable amounts of experience as they learn the proper etiquettes of court life. Also, Ladies-in-waiting shall receive a weekly payment of 100 mina for their services to the Queen.    

Her Majesty also seeks out the skilled blades of any proven warrior, male or female, who wishes to pledge their service to her and form her official Queen’s Guard. Any who wish to petition the Queen to join this exclusive retinue may come to the special court session as well and present themselves there before Her Majesty.
 

Applicants for the Queen’s Guard must be willing to submit to several questions that could entail the following: 

• Previous experience 

• Qualifications

• Weapon and skill preferences

• Skill demonstration

• A background check if found necessary

Members of the Queen’s Guard will be paid 200 mina every week for their services. 

OOC INFO

The special court shall be held on Friday, August 30th at 6:30pm EST in the Royal Palace of Avalain
 

The Avalain Times, First Edition

c.1730

The Crown Seeks Innovation!

A new era has begun within the Kingdom of Curonia’s capital city of Avalain. An era where the arts of music and literature, skills of craftsmen and women, and pursuit of knowledge have come to the forefront of the Curonian society. For too long has the beautiful northern city of picturesque snow-capped hills, frost laden valleys, and breathtaking pine forests been untouched by the skillful mind of artists and poets, its peerage left with no way to pass on their skills and teachings, and the forges and stalls of the city left cold and barren. No longer shall this be the case as the King and his council do hereby see fit to establish a new era of renaissance within the kingdom and the hearts and minds of its citizens. 

Craftsmen and women, poets, scholars, artists, musicians, and all other forms of esteemed intellectuals are hereby invited to partake within this new golden era of Curonia’s history. Recognition, appreciation, respect, and of course untapped mounds of wealth are all just a move away! 

The King and his council have formed the following list of occupations in which they wish seen brought into the Kingdom: 

-Blacksmith 

-Tailors

-Medical Professionals

-Herbalists

-Librarian

-Farmers

-Fishermen

-Brewer/Vinter/Distiller

-Culinary Professionals

-City Barber

(Should you have any questions on jobs, housing, stores/shops/market stalls, or anything else pertaining to employment in the Kingdom please contact AutumnSoul#2750!) 

The Queen’s Court

The time has long since passed since the marriage of His Majesty, Pierce I Devereux to Queen Julia Devereux, nee Staunton. With the birth of her firstborn child now concluded and her return to public life happening in just a short amount of time, Her Majesty, the Queen has seen fit to call forth all ladies of the realm, noble and common to a special session of court held within the royal palace of Avalain.

It shall be here that the women under the age of 25 may come forth and petition themselves to Her Majesty to enter her service as one of her ladies in waiting. The Queen seeks to fill her inner ranks with several women who wish to learn the etiquette of court life and serve under her care and guidance. A special pension of 100 mina will be given to each lady in waiting every saint week in reward for their services to the queen.

(The special court shall be held on Friday, August 30th at 6:30pm EST in Curonia) 

Her Majesty also seeks out the skilled blades of any proven warrior, male or female, who wishes to pledge their service to her and form her official Queen’s Guard. Any individual who wishes to petition the Queen to join this exclusive retinue may come to the special court previously mentioned above and present themselves there before Her Majesty.
 

Applicants for the Queen’s Guard must be willing to submit to several questions that could entail the following: 

• Previous experience 

• Qualifications

• Weapon and skill preferences

• Skill demonstration

• A background check if found necessary

The First Hunt

A new guild has emerged within the Kingdom! The Blood Pack has formed under the leadership of one of Curons eldest warriors and women of influence, Dame Klaudia Grimoire. Madame Grimoire has taken it upon herself to revive the days of old, back from the very beginning of Curon. From its earliest days as a nation of tents on an open field with nothing but sprawling forests and endless emerald green pastures surrounding it. Back then the men and women of Curon hunted every day and night to feed their families and provide for one another. Together they hunted, in the deepest hours of the night and earliest hours of the morn, forging everlasting bonds between kinsmen. 

The guild shall host several hunts throughout each saint week. Each outing shall provide for the guild's members to test their skills in the field, to track the many beasts that call the surrounding forests of the Kingdom home. It shall be out there, in the deepest parts of the woodlands that members of the hunt shall gain glory, trophies, recognition, and forge everlasting bonds between themselves and their brothers and sisters of the hunt. 

(Contact AutumnSoul#2750 if you are interested in joining!) 

The Army seeks YOU!

The royal military of Curonia is seeking new members to join its ranks! New members shall be inducted into the army starting out at a base rank of initiate but through hard work and dedication, new members can easily move up through the ranks of the army’s hierarchy and receive multiple rewards such as payment bonuses for each rank they manage to earn. The starting base pay for a soldier is 200 mina every saint week. 

(Contact Blancharizard#6969 or Dawsy#5361 for more information about joining!)

Published 10th of Sigismund's End, 1730 

The Dance of the Bear

A painting of men and women of all ranks and nations gathering within the halls of the royal palace of Avalain to enjoy a festival. c.1710

For too long the halls of the royal palace within Avalain have stood silent. Long have they desired to once again be filled with the beautiful sounds of music and dance; to have the emptiness chased away and the sounds of joyous laughter return to its hearth.

With news of the Queen's birth to a son and heir, King Pierce I has proclaimed a time of celebration within the Kingdom! The time of silence has come to an end for the nation as fliers would be sent forth and hung on every corner of the city and riders sent to spread the news to all other nations of the Empire.

[!] The poster would entail the following: 

By royal proclamation of King Pierce and Queen Julia, a ball shall be held to celebrate the birth of the newborn Prince. 

All citizens and vassals of the Empire are invited to attend the joyous festivities and partake of an evening of song, dance, and celebration.

The citizenry and nobility from the Princedom of Fenn are also extended an invitation to come and partake in the momentous celebration. 

The ball shall be held in the style of a masquerade theme. All guests are requested to dress in both a mask and in their best attire for the evening's festivities. 

There shall be a competition held on who is wearing the most stunning and breathtaking outfit at the ball. Men and women both are encouraged to wear their best attire and enter the competition as there shall be a winner for both a best-dressed female and best-dressed male. The winner shall receive a special gift procured directly from the royal treasury as well as a small monetary reward. 

A number of small shops shall also be set up within the palace for the festivities. Fine items of limited quantity such as aged wines, jewelry, furs and so on shall be on display for purchase. 

No weapons of any sort shall be permitted within the royal palace. Any guests who act with ill will and hostile intent within the festival shall be immediately removed and escorted out of the city.

Direct invitations  would be sent to the following: 

-EMPEROR ALEXANDER I of ORENIA, and the further IMPERIAL HOUSEHOLD-

-KING ANDREW II of HANSETI-RUSKA, and the further House of BARBANOV-

-KING ADRIAN I of KAEDRIN, and the further House of HELVETS-

-PRINCE VLADRICK HIEROMAR of RUBERN, and the further House of ALIMAR-

-ARCHDUKE EDWARD of SUFFONIA, and the further House of SUFFOLK-

-CALIPH MURAD of THE KADARSI, and the further House of KHARADEEN-

-DUKE STANNIS of WESTMARCH, and the further House of STAUNTON-

-DUKE SERGIUS of VINTAS, and the further house of MERENTEL-

-GRAND PRINCE AELTHOS of FENN, and the further house of TUNDRAK-

-DUKE ADRIAN of ADRIA, and the further house of SARKOZIC-

-DUKE RAHIM of CRESONIA, and the further house of NASRID-

OOC Information

Date: Saturday, August 31, 2019

Time: 5pm EST

Location: Kingdom of Curonia, Royal Palace

Discord : u have it 

skin and bid : Purple dress , 1500

Discord: AutumnSoul#2750

Skin & bid : Gold Black & Red Gown, 1,800

Red Fur Dress : 2,000 

Discord: AutumnSoul#2750

skin & bid : Gold Black and Red Gown, 1,300

Discord: AutumnSoul#2750 
Skins & Bid : Gold Black & Red Gown, 1000

Discord: AutumnSoul#2750
Outtfit & Bid: 
Alex Style Black Armor – 800

Discord : AutumnSoul#2750

Skin & Bid : Royal Blue Northern, 2300 

Discord: AutumnSoul#2750 

Bid: 1000

Outfit: Royal Blue Northern 

Bid: 800

Outfit: Gold Black & Red Gown 

Fourth Alcalde Elections of Curonia

c.1729

With the resignation of Lady Ophelia Silversteed as Alcalde formally taking effect within the Kingdom of Curonia’s capital city of Avalain, the diplomatic season has descended upon the great nation once more. The position of Alcalde is one of clear renown and note in the city, with many great leaders taking up the mantel and getting their first steps into the roles of figureheads in the Kingdom. The office of Alcalde is required to perform many tasks for the Kingdom of Curonia and its’ people. As the prime pathway for citizens to communicate to the Council, the office has many responsibilities which include the following:

• Stewardry: Manage housing under the supervision of the Seneschal. 

• Shop Management: Aid in leasing & managing shops.

• Receive & process opinions on Curonia and its’ Council

• Host Events each Saint Week in Avalain.

  • (If at least one event is not hosted each saint week, the Alcalde will be dismissed from their position and new elections will be held in order to find a candidate who can meet these requirements) 

Do you have aspirations to support the Kingdom & Citizens of Curonia?

In four Saint’s Days, each aspirant will be given the opportunity to present a speech to the citizens of the Kingdom. After this, the people shall elect the candidate they feel is best suited for the position of Alcalde. 

If you wish to submit your candidacy, please inform the Council by submitting your speech for approval. 

OOC Information

Date of Speeches: Saturday, 24th of August in the Square of Avalain at 5PM EST

Date of Election: Immediately following speeches

Sign up below with the following information

RP Name:

Username:

Discord:

Royal Decree of 1729

Issued and confirmed on the 5th of Owyns's Light, 1729

By royal decree of His Majesty, Pierce I Devereux, the King does hereby see fit to bring forth a new era within the Kingdom of Curonia. While the Reconstruction Act of 1721 saw a change within the Kingdom and its peerage, it did not go far enough. For too long the lords and ladies of the Kingdom who have sworn their fealty to His Majesty, have ignored their oaths and instead used their titles for personal gain. No longer shall this be the case as the King sees fit to rectify the wrongs of those who have betrayed him in both inaction and direct action. 

His Majesty, the King of Curonia sees fit to destroy and absorb the following letters and titles:

     His Majesty destroys and absorbs the letters patent for the Barony of Frosthold, and confirms that indeed, the King shall hold the title Baron of Frosthold, until such a time that he sees fit to return the title to one of his vassals.

     His Majesty destroys and absorbs the letters patent for the Barony of Alsace, and confirms that indeed, the King shall hold the title Baron of Alsace, until such a time that he sees fit to return the title to one of his vassals.

     His Majesty destroys and absorbs the letters patent for the territory of Avernia. The title Castellan of Avernia is hereby revoked from the House of Falkenrath and destroyed. His Majesty, the King shall hold the territory of Avernia, until such a time that he sees fit to return the title and lands to one of his vassals.

     His Majesty destroys the letters patent for the Barony of Barmount, and confirms that indeed, no one shall hold the title Baron of Barmount from now till the end of days. 

     His Majesty destroys the letters patent for the Barony of Northgarde, and confirms that indeed, no one shall hold the title Baron of Northgarde from now till the end of days.  

     His Majesty destroys the letters patent for the Piastdom of Volin, and confirms that indeed, no other shall hold the title Piast of Volin from now till the end of days. 

     His Majesty revokes and destroys the title Castellan of Albion from the House of Harkness. His Majesty, the King shall hold the territory of Albion, until such a time that he sees fit to return the title and lands to one of his vassals.

     His Majesty revokes and destroys the title Castellan of Alsace from the House of Landes. His Majesty, the King shall hold the territory of Alsace, until such a time that he sees fit to return the title and lands to one of his vassals.

His Majesty, the King of Curonia sees fit to revoke the status as nobility from the following former Houses of the Kingdom:

     The House of Landes is hereby disennobled and shall no longer lay claim to the titles, privileges, rights, and status befitting that of a noble house of the Kingdom.  

     The House of Calafroy is hereby disennobled and shall no longer lay claim to the titles, privileges, rights, and status befitting that of a noble house of the Kingdom. 

     The House of Vilchyc is hereby disennobled and shall no longer lay claim to the titles, privileges, rights, and status befitting that of a noble house of the Kingdom.

Signed,

HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Pierce I of House Devereux,

King of Curonia, Duke of Curon & Umbra, Count of Albion, Arbor, Avalain, Blackreach & Cyrilsburg, Baron of Alsace, Arisan, Frosthold, Rivia, & Vasile, and Lord of Avernia, Bear Mountain & Blackden. 

Klaudia stands at the window in her bedroom. Eyes glassed over and puffy from the long night of sorrow she had endured. The elder woman would keep her gaze fixated on her two grandchildren below as they played in the backside garden. 

For what seemed like years she stood there, watching until finally, the children seemed to notice their grandmother’s figure in the window.

Taking in a deep breath and with the help of her cane she muttered “ . . . They are all I have left”.

Leaving the window's edge, the widow would make her way down to the garden to enjoy what time she herself had left with her family. 

The Union of Eagle and Bear

=1727=

A painting depicting the marriage of King Pierce I and Julia of Westmarch

To the citizens, friends and allies of Curonia,

It is with our utmost jubilation that the Curonian Crown does officially announce the betrothal of our King, Pierce I, to that of Lady Julia Staunton. Under the blessing of GOD our nations do see a union bound in the prestige and power of old, two houses to reestablish the historical allies in which they sought of each other. We humbly extend an invitation to each and every citizen of Orenia, as well as those diplomatically inclined to our Kingdom. The two shall recite their vows of matrimony within a grand ceremony, overseen by His Eminence, The Archbishop of Curonia. Following the official proceedings, guests will be welcomed to bestow their gifts and blessings upon the royal couple, entertained within the grounds of Avalain. 

We extend invitations to the following:

-EMPEROR ALEXANDER I of ORENIA, and the further IMPERIAL HOUSEHOLD-

-DUKE STANNIS of WESTMARCH, and the further House of STAUNTON-

-KING ANDREW II of HANSETI-RUSKA, and the further House of BARBANOV-

-KING ADRIAN I of KAEDRIN, and the further House of HELVETS-

-ARCHDUKE EDWARD of SUFFONIA, and the further House of SUFFOLK-

-CALIPH MURAD of THE KADARSI, and the further House of KHARADEEN -

-DUKE SERGIUS of VINTAS, and the further house of MERENTEL-

-GRAND PRINCE AELTHOS of FENN, and the further house of TUNDRAK-

-DUKE ADRIAN of ADRIA, and the further house of SARKOZIC-

-DUCHESS ASRIA of CRESONIA, and the further house of NASRID-

-All nobility and citizens of the invited nations-

The royal couple graciously welcome all attendees, so long as they hold a peaceful temperament.

Signed,

HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, Pierce I of the House of Devereux, King of Curonia, Duke of Curon & Umbra, Count of Arbor, Albion, Blackreach, Cyrilsburg & Avalain, Baron of Asrian, Rivia & Vasile, Lord of Bear Mountain & Blackden.

HER LADYSHIP, Julia of the House of Staunton

Prepared & Scribed by Her Highness, Princess Anabel of Curonia

With the help of her cane, Klaudia walked or rather paced back and forth between the halls of the palace. Only the echo of her heels and cane hitting the wooden floors could be heard as she paced before the setting sun shining through the stained glass windows. On and on she went for what seemed like ages before finally she stopped. Looking up to a wall casted in the suns last rays, she scanned the portraits hanging all over its surface. 

“Wilhelm, Evelyn, Edward, Thornn, Thea, Umar, Ajax, Jurin, Harry and so many more” the elder woman would lower her gaze and stand in silence.

”And now Eric” 

Looking back up, she’d look to the very last section of the wall where only 3 or so spots remained open. Moving down to them she’d brush her hand along the empty space. 

“Where has the time gone …... it seems like just yesterday we were all sitting in that camp, some of us strangers and others descendants of a lost nation … but all with a dream of something greater” 

Lowering her gaze she’d step back from the wall. 

“We became a family ….. but now …...that family is so small …... and there are so few of us left ….. from those days of old..... from those days sitting by the campfire and sharing stories and dreams of our youth.” 

Some time would pass as the sun set further and the very last shreds of light would seem to crawl away from the wall, replaced with the shadows of the night. 

“My dear Eric …. I shall miss your stubborn ways and brash tone, your unwavering loyalty and dedication to make our nation as great as is it …. One day I shall join you and the others in the heavens.....one day I shall come and sit with you all by that camp fire again.....one last time.”