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Marlene von Reuss, even after her husband insisted the invite had been lost in the mail, threw a large fit in Velen as both of her sisters-in-laws were invited by proxy, but her and her husbands name were excluded "I thought Waclaw and I were friends! I've called him Onkel my entire life!" she'd pout "Now his son doesn't even bother to extend a welcoming hand. They plan to freeze me out Siegmund!" @Timer

Ludvika Ludovar was first very pleased with the missive and then very depressed as she was reminded of her engagement. In an effort to see the light in the dark, she'd rip off the bottom half of the page and keep the rest.

Marlene von Reuss smiled knowingly!

Ludvika Ludovar pinned her personal copy of the story to her wall, smiling brightly!

Marlene von Reuss recalled her tenure as a ward to the immigrant queen, remarking to her husband “She has never had any direction. When I was a ward it was Princess Elena and Lady Nicoletta who guided me.”

VE SOFYA KOLEKCJA: Written by LUDVIKA SOFYA LUDOVAR On the 10th day of Gronna ag Droba of 503 E.S. IPERA ANDRIK, do not shed tears, for I do not dwell beneath this pine tree. The gentle breath of spring whispers through the fragrant grass, the stars gleam brightly, and the finches' song fills the air, yet you mourn, while my soul soars blissfully. Go to the kind heart of my husband, the one who contemplates when he speaks of our humility. Tell him that my life, dedicated to both you and him, forged my destiny, as through this mortal form, I gained spirit, and through spirit, I found serenity. love eternally abides. LUKAS A BLAZE alights. A wildfire in the woods, fierce and bright. With zeal I write, but soon I find my kindling’s plight. like the fire that’s burnt, I’ve run out of prose, ideas fade and inspiration slows. Once brilliant sparks, now smolder. But fear not, for the flame will return, with new kindling, my spirit will churn. In the darkness, a spark, that you can discern, yet here you wander while I learn. KATERINE YOU observe the carved hand with the index finger pointing skyward. Undoubtedly, that is the direction. But how does one follow it? It's good to abstain from murder and lust, forgive, do good to others, and worship God without graven images. These are external means primarily to do good to oneself. The inner core is freedom, light, purity. I can no longer find the goal or lose it. FRANZ AMIDST the lush, your once-vibrant blossoms are withering, lovely iris! Yet, you remain silent, unable to request the water you desperately crave. You don't need words to tell us of your thirst; it's evident to all who pass by. They say, 'The iris needs water,' as you continue to thirst, yearning for a sip, but your plea is hushed. You can't ask for love, and in your silent agony, you witnessed me wither. ALEKSIYA A HALLUCINATION, a conjuring, the prettiest of burns proves it so. Or am I just pretty enough, in this passing phase? My temple prods, my knuckles clam, I dreamed vividly that night. You are the unsatisfiable insecurity. Oh, these fragile days prove to the woman it is a woman and that the man is a man. STEFAN SHEILDS protect the most vulnerable among us. As metal clangs and arrows whoosh together, I defy them with a bare chest, unflinching. I deem it resilience, much like how ice resists shattering, or a blossom in a blizzard's storm. My leathered skin may unsettle you, for it bends, but it never fractures. My quill, an extension of who I’ve become and my ink, an extension of my quill.

Ludvika Ludovar reflected on how little she knew anyone; especially Leonid after reading his poem.

Ludvika Ludovar had been brooding over different verbs for her poetry entry to her sisters Hauchmetvas when she was poorly informed that she would not be allowed to participate for some reason or another. She grabbed the missive to read it over herself, confused on the wording and deciding to pitch a fit. That night, Isaakev was a reck.

Ludvika Ludovar began to study and learn the dances so she wouldn’t be left out at balls!

Ludvika Ludovar thought Sigmar was a simp. Sigmar Simp.

Ludvika Ludovar was shocked awake as a servant slammed the missive down on her desk, proclaiming a few swears before she read over it. "Oh godan." she'd begin to mourn, realizing she'd be forced into fancy gowns and to parade around with the other ladies. "My freedom! My passions!"

Ludvika Ludovar mocked her little sister, tugging at the drapes on the windows in at attempt to draw attention to herself "Vy must think about more then vyrself Reza, vy sound conceded." At that, the fabric pulled free and she drunkenly swung it around her figure like an oversized scarf before stumbling off.

THE VALIANT ADVENTURES OF SER ARTHUR: Written by LUDVIKA SOFYA LUDOVAR On this 12th day of Joma ag Umund of 499 E.S. PREFACE & PLOT The first of three, and saddest, of a planned trilogy of valiant and heroic adventures of the knights of Haense showcasing that while blood is thick, loyalty to one's kingdom and honor always supersede. Written to honor the grief of Ser Arthur as he bravely protected his King and kingdom against his kin who threw away the crow's oath to follow a false Duke. Krusae zwy Kongzem. SETTING Somewhere between the 1910s to 1920s in Almaris during the Adrian Rebellion. Each act is set in a different location, beginning with Act 1 in the fields of Minitz, then traveling north through the fields of Acre, and finally to the Royal City of Karosgrad. In Act Two, we are in the barracks prisons, and in Act Three we are in the city square where a guillotine has been set up for the execution. CHARACTERS LORENA: A dishonorable noblewoman of low standing who rebelled against her home state to stand with the Duke of Adria. Cladded in Adrian red. SER ARTHUR: A Noble Marian knight and brother to Lorena. Captures, imprisons, and buries his sister. SER VANHART: A ginger-headed Marian knight obsessed with honor and protecting his kingdom. AMELTH/GUARD/VILLAGER: First a Ludovar warrior. Then a prison guard. Then an onlooker to the execution. JAKOB/GUARD/VILLAGER: First a Ludovar warrior. Then a prison guard. Then an onlooker to the execution. LITTLE BOY/VILLAGER: First the son of a rich Margravine who gets lost. Then an onlooker to the execution. MARGRAVINE/VILLAGER: First a rich Margravine who loses her son. Then an onlooker to the execution. ACT 1 | The Seizure _________ ACT 2 | The Prisons _________ ACT 3 | The Execution

Marlene of Merryweather burnt the invitation to Katharina before she got the chance to see it, cursing like a sailor.

Marlene of Merryweather spent the night praying at the edge of the bed she shared which felt oddly cold despite the room being so warm.

Marlene of Merryweather's face slowly fell into shock as she closely ran her finger under each line, reading aloud her aunts scripture to her husband. As the final words fled from her lips, a moment of silence encaptured the room. "Stassion did pop out of nowhere..."

The Clementine Court Fifth of Owyn's Flame, 1945 LOOKS OF THE NATION: WHITESPIRE The Mistress of the Wardrobe, Miss Idaline CONTENTS I. PREFACE II. MENS III. WOMENS IV. CHILDRENS V. ALTRUISTIC STYLES __________________________ PREFACE Thanks to the tireless work of previous Mistresses of the Wardrobes, the Office of Cultivation, and the current Mistress, Lady Ideline, is pleased to announce an incipient project in which the styles in regions of Aaun will be reported on in delightful detail for all to study. Since the move to Aveos, Aaun has settled nicely into the picturesque standard of human civilization through the consequential work of the Lords and Ladies that reside throughout the country. For many years Whitespire has stood as the heart of Aaunic culture and values, but with the seeds of vassals being planted outside of the capital, Whitespire has commenced to be its own center of sprouting customs. With the relocation of Boon & Bane and the inclusion of apparel to purchase, as well as the aperture of Princess Caesonia’s boutique, the couture of Whitespire has never been more popular. As in all cultures, the styles of a region are dictated by those in potent positions. Whitespire, being home to the Royal Family, is first and foremost sanctioned by royal couture followed by the Crown’s vassals, the Baronies of Bourgh, Virdain, Gotfridcher, and Napoliza. All of these families have had an immense impact on the reported trends in the last decade with eminent members serving in the guard, courts, regime, or running businesses within the city or floodplains. Without further adieu, the Head Bellwether presents The Looks of a Nation: Whitespire __________________________ MEN’S FASHION Largely overlooked by other courts, Men’s style is as consequential as their female counterparts. The couture of Whitespire is inspired predominantly by Aaun’s meager predecessor; the Harvest Confederacy. Unlike the Harvest Lord's though, Whitespire is filled with affluent men who dress with pride for their country. The garbs are composed of three key components: the cloak, the tunic, and the trousers with additional adjuncts and finaries integrated to designate the class of an individual. Cloaks are prevalent among all of Aaun fashion but are especially present in Whitespire. There are two key styles discerned around the city, one of which is a short fur-lined cloak that is designed so the skin of the animal is faced outwards and the fur is faced inwards for warmth. These are customarily sported in the winter months or flipped the other way around in the warmer seasons for flare. Sometimes the heads of the animals are preserved so they can repose on shoulders but this is a very extravagant operation done only by the finest hunters, which are not found in Whitespire. Other cloaks are composed of wool and worn all year round. These come in all different colors with aurum embroidery. All cloaks are generally clipped together with brooches of a conventionally circular shape or otherwise fastened with tying, lacing, or clasping with natural materials such as animal bones. Moreover, if a cloak is not worn a jacket is. These jackets are tunics without sleeves or tunics that are opened in the middle and fastened with buttons. Tunics are the fundamental part of the men’s attire in Whitespire as they cover the chest and arms. They are cut by the hip or knee and can either have long or short sleeves. Sometimes, tunics are layered with a long sleeve below the short sleeve to create layers. The long-sleeved styles additionally bolster cuffs or extra embroideries around the wrist. Belts or leather girdles are worn on the waist and infrequently have buckles or extra fastenings to carry pouches. The dyes of the tunics range from deep purples to dark browns, but customarily, lighter colors are evaded for ease of cleaning. A Whitespire guard off-duty Trousers, otherwise known as pants or leggings, are worn under the tunic and down to the man’s ankles. They are ordinarily a dark gray or brown color and if excess material subsists it is bunched around the waist. On occasions, loops are sewn into the trousers for belts and pouches for carrying items with ease. Extra woven fabrics or leather are integrated from the knee to the ankle when it is cold for added protection. When it comes to footwear, the men of Whitespire favor the enduring appeal of leather shoes, a testament to the city's craftsmanship. These shoes, characterized by their durability and timeless design, are often secured with meticulously crafted straps. Finally, the more influential a person is, the more likely they are to embellish their ensemble with precious metals and gems. Gold headwear, in particular, emerges as a symbol of affluence and prestige. Those who hold positions of power or wield substantial influence in the city choose to wear circlets to formal events or to add aurum to the hems of hats. In review, the couture of men in Whitespire consists of cloaks, tunics, and trousers. Cloaks, whether fur-lined or woolen, are adorned with brooches or ties, while tunics come in various lengths and sleeve styles. Dark trousers are paired with leather shoes to reflect the city’s craftsmanship. Influential figures opt for precious metal and gem embellishments to symbolize prestige. Overall, it encapsulates the unique blend of traditional and social hierarchy that defines Whitespire as a whole. ~✦~ Examples of Whitespire grandeur for the male include Prince Gawyn Tiber and the Merchant Bane of Boon & Banes. __________________________ WOMEN’S FASHION In Whitespire we have witnessed the natural progression, albeit fascinating evolution, of women’s trends. Clothing has become a matter of style, reflecting the social status, religious beliefs, and evolving tastes of the ladies of Whitespire. Regardless of ladies' regional differences, Aaunic couture exhibits a remarkable sense of unity. It is characterized by loose, flowing, and unrestrictive silhouettes, a style that transcends social classes, appealing to both commoners and nobility alike. The gowns are ankle or floor-length with trains for formal occasions. Sleeves are either fitted and heavily decorated or left to hang low and free. Sleeveless gowns are an unfitted rectangle piece of cloth with an opening for the head and worn over a chamise. Outdoors, women wore cloaks or mantles often lined with fur and in the colder months it was common to see ladies in gloves, hats, and other winter related accessories. Footwear is also changed between the indoors and outdoors with delicate heels worn inside, especially at court, and stronger leather shoes were far more fashionable outside. Furthermore, not only do both men and women don cloaks, but both men and women commonly wear armors in the city or outside the city in representation of one's strength and pride for the country. While it is frequented by men, the sight of female sets of armor are beginning to increase within the city's walls! Most famously Princess Aleksandra has donned her Merryweather family armor around the city in times of crisis whilst men like Ser Gawyn or Squire Philip have been seen in their own commissioned sets. A lady of the Clementine Courts Gold embellishments are a common choice for clothing details among women, serving as a marker of status and affiliation with the Whitespirian court. For younger women, gold is ingeniously incorporated into their hairstyles, often taking the form of decorative wiring. Elaborate braids, buns, and stylized Illatian headwear like hairnets and coiffures, all find favor among noble women in the capital. For older women, veils and various styles of wimples are popular choices, exuding an air of timeless elegance. Brighter colors are favored by women, occasionally complemented by moody autumnal shades like mauve reds and browns. Royal purple enjoys particular popularity, though it is most frequently worn by members of the Royal Household, signifying their regal status and connection to the ruling elite. Finally, pins, brooches, necklaces, and other jewelry are added to elevate the look of the individual. However, a thin line is walked with this as too many embellishments are seen as overly excessive and frowned upon by older women in society. ~✦~ Examples of Whitespire grandeur for the females include Her Royal Majesty, Adela of High-Peak, and Lady Olenna Haverlock. __________________________ CHILDREN’S The world of children's couture, in contrast to its adult counterpart, is a realm that remains somewhat underdeveloped, primarily due to the fleeting nature of childhood itself. As children transition into adulthood, their clothing choices undergo a transformation, and yet, this transition is accompanied by subtle modifications to preserve the innocence and modesty that is synonymous with childhood. When it comes to boys' attire, one can observe a distinctive style marked by longer tunics that extend beyond the knee, often featuring long sleeves for added coverage. Occasionally, these tunics are adorned with intricate embellishments, including rare touches of gold. However, it's essential to remember that children outgrow their clothing at a rapid pace, making such lavish detailing a relatively uncommon sight. To shield their legs from the elements, boys typically don various shades of stockings, and they often embrace wrap-around cloaks. These cloaks are designed with extra fabric around the shoulders, providing not only warmth but also a sanctuary for the young ones. In contrast to the ornate aurum headgear favored by adults, boys opt for simpler yet equally cozy fur-lined hats to crown their heads or nothing at all. On the other side of the spectrum, girls' couture closely mirrors the fashion choices of their adult counterparts. They don long, ankle-length tunics or gowns, most often in white or lighter hues, which serve as an outer layer delicately draped over darker, intricately embroidered undergowns. These undergarments often evolve with the child and are carried into adolescence. The emulation of adult style is apparent in the length of the sleeves, the tasteful addition of embellishments, and the selection of elaborate hairstyles adorned with delicate accessories, all carefully chosen to complement the wearer's age and innocence. The primary deviation lies in the use of belts, which serve as ornamental accessories rather than functional necessities, a departure from the utilitarian role they typically play in adult women's attire. ~✦~ Examples of Whitespire grandeur for children include Her Royal Highness, Princess Mary, and Lord Henri de Lewes. __________________________ ALTRUISTIC STYLES With each added edition of the Office of the Head Bellwether’s exploration of Aaunic styles, the esteemed Mistress of the Robes and her many lady-maids have dedicated regalia for the common person to wear in times of need or simply wants! With each new paper, two more outfits will be added to a growing collection of free garbs for the Aaunic people to revel in. The two styles in this edition feature classic Whitespire styles inspired by prominent figures within the community. The first of the two is for ladies and features a comfortable smock to wear under a white tunic with blue embroidery along the cusps. For extra warmth and protection against the strange weather patterns across Aveos, a cloak was added and secured with aurum brooches. ~✦~ The second of the two designs is set for men’s casual wear and is a black tunic and aurum embroidery. The sleeves are a bright crimson ending with fitted gloves. A cape is also added to this to fend away the weather along with high boots and fur-lined pants. SIGNED, Her Royal Majesty, Adela of High Peak the Queen Mother The Most Honorable, Marlene of Merryweather Margravine-consort of Velen, Countess-consort of Cantal and Revedin, Baroness-consort of Mons Velena and Alsace, Protectress of the Aschenwald peoples, Head Bellwether of the Clementine Courts, Lady of Stewardry Miss Idaline Mistress of the Wardrobe

ON THE HOUSING INITIATIVE Issued by THE OFFICE OF THE HIGH SENESCHAL On the fifth of Owyn's Flame, 1945 Since the end of King James’s reign and the beginning of King Edmund’s, the office of the High Seneschal has gone under some restorations to return to its former high-efficiency glory. We from the office of the High Seneschal promise a new look at the city of Whitespire’s housing market for the average consumer. Our stewards have worked tirelessly to prepare the renewal following the coronation of King Edmund and are pleased to announce a new public ledger along with reminders to the public about taxes and all other information about that housing in Whitespire. _____ The old public ledger was frankly out of date and too damaged to be updated further, so the Office of the High Seneschal presents the public with a new and grandiose public ledger that is promised to be updated regularly by the Stewards. It contains information about buying prices and the taxes per year that are vital to one's ability to retain a house in the city of Whitespire. Taxes are collected every Sun’s Smile (Sunday) and are to be enforced regularly through a three-strike system. The first strike comes after taxes on your property are one year late and a minimum fee of five mina is added to the regular tax prices. The second strike comes after your taxes on your property are two years late and a minimum fee of ten minas is added to the regular tax prices. The third strike comes after your taxes on your property are three years late and that is when, unless a Steward is contacted through a letter, your property will be evicted by the city and put up for sale. Lastly, If you plan to be away from Whitespire for a time, cannot pay your taxes regularly, and do not wish to worry over the strike penalties, the Office of the High Seneschal shall accept payments up to four weeks in advance added to your tax box in the taxing office. _____ CONKERHOVE & APPLEBEE The stylish homes of Conkerhove and Applebee are open for sale and fully furnished. We encourage those who are impatient with the fastness of city life to move into these abodes and contact a city steward for a tour of the open homes! They are fit for two individuals to live comfortably. Perfect to begin a budding family. Furthermore, the downpayment is only 50 mina and yearly taxes are 25, cheaper than half the city homes by far! SIGNED, His Excellency, Konstantin Edmund Count of Hohengarten, Patriarch von Augusten, Seneschal of Whitespire The Most Honourable, Marlene of Merryweather Margravine-consort of Velen, Countess-consort of Cantal and Revedin, Baroness-consort of Mons Velena and Alsace, Protectress of the Aschenwald peoples, Head Bellwether of the Clementine Courts, Lady of Stewardry

Marlene von Reuss shook her head and set the paper aside into her pile of many; she would try her hardest to avoid such event after the scuffle that occurred just today.

The fare ancestor to such titles, Austina of Aldersberg, followed the brave Oksana through her next journey; one of wisdom.

Marlene von Alstreim set her eyes on the invite list, noting who and those who were not invited. She'd cringe at one name, passing the missive off to Siegmund with a small grin "That is a nice portrait."

MERRYWEATHEREN RIGHT Penned by the PRINCIPALITY OF MERRYWEATHER In 1942 In the abode of His Highness, the Prince, and Her Highness, the Princess of Merryweather, the approach of the Autumn of 1942 was met with an air of great expectation and excitement. This particular season held profound significance, as it marked the long-awaited moment when the eldest and sole offspring of the Prince's brother, the esteemed Marlene Konstancja von Alstreim, would be formally introduced to Aaunic society. Guided by her aunt, and in tradition with Alstreim rites of passage, a challenge of her choice awaits the Alstreim. Unlike the conventional ceremonies of debuts, she had chosen the challenge of archery. With a bow in hand, Marlene will prove her mettle, not only as a symbol of the grace and beauty of the Merryweather family but as a woman of remarkable skill and determination. I. THE SHOOT Marlene’s dedication to archery since the age of thirteen will culminate in a display at the start of her passage into womanhood. Designed by her aunt, a set of challenging targets awaits her and the guests across Merryweather land. Guests are encouraged to watch the spectacle as well as cheer her on. II. THE CEREMONY Following the impressive archery showcase, the crowd, and Marlene’s family shall gather once more in the throne room of Merryweather. Marlene’s aunt and uncle shall address the assembled guests, offering heartfelt words. As a powerful symbol of transition, a white cloth will be solemnly ignited, signifying the release of Marlene’s childhood. III. THE RECEPTION After the ceremony in the throne room, all attendees are to unite in the festively adorned feast hall. Music shall be played as guests are treated to a splendid array of drinks and dishes, which further heighten the spirit of celebration. A moment of shared happiness, marking the promising beginning of Marlene’s adult life. SIGNED, HER HIGHNESS, Aleksandra of Vidaus, Princess-Consort of Merryweather and the Rhine, Landgravine of Alstreim, Baroness of Corwinsburg, Lady of Blackwater, Lady Chamberlain of Aaun HER LADYSHIP, Marlene Konstancja von Alstreim

Marlene smiled, dusting off her hands as she had been the one to realize such an error and begin to remedy it!

Marlene von Alstreim beamed with pride for her cousins, her smile so bright it briefly blinded Siegmund.

Ludvika Ludovar screams in delight as she did the quiz, finding out she is most like Melisende.