Drew2_dude

“Do ye Remember a time when the fairy boys were relevant? Cause I don’t.” Father Malcolm would call out to his Acolyte. ”Must’ve been when they didn’t hide behind their walls from a fight.” The Acolyte would respond. ”Oh, so never then.” The priest would chuckle as he continued to transcribe copies of the Holy Scrolls.

Otto Gant would call out to his son from the Valwyck Outhouse. "Lad, do ye know what the shitter and Veletz 'ave in common? They're both rancid and filled to their innards with shite." He proceeded to laugh till he was red in the face before finishing up his business and heading back to bed.

"think the more pressin' matter is the fact yer family was harborin' wicked creatures accursed by daemonkind." Otto Gant would muse, reading over the missive.

CHANCELLOR’S REPORT: A FAREWELL ADDRESS “I would have perished had I not persisted” Issued by the GANT CHANCELLERY On this 2nd day of Msitza & Dargundof 484 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, In a few moments, I will lay down my official responsibilities as Chancellor of the Aulic Government. Deputy Palatine Roslin Baruch, Marshal Wilheim Barclay, and the entire Aulic Council who have served me during the last ten years, I say publicly as I have privately that I extend my immense gratitude for their dedication and commitment in governing the world’s most formidable kingdom. We know that there continue to be challenges ahead, but I am convinced now more than ever before that the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska—more than any other polity—can successfully meet whatever may face us. In this address as my final report to you, I want to offer an urgent reflection on three pressing matters of state that impact us within and beyond our borders: the geopolitical uncertainties posed by imminent Adrian aggression, the fractious politics within the kingdom, and the integrity of this office which I have had the honor to occupy. ON GEOPOLITICS A real or perceived weakness can tempt the forces of aggression and instigate war. That is why Haense cannot neglect its military strength and readiness. With equal determination, Haense and her allies must find workable solutions to allay the increasing tension through sheer will and collective military contingencies. The specter of Adria demands our vigilance and attentiveness. It has now been over two centuries since the burning of Ves befell Adria. Yet today, the great majority of the people cannot recall a time in which the looming threat of their aggression did not befall the stability of the world. It is the responsibility of every civilized and great-mannered nation to reinforce the dutiful and moral order established by law and upheld by Pontifical mandate. It is and shall remain the policy of Haense in marshaling our material and spiritual might to answer the call of defending our most basic entitlement to security for all Highlanders. During my ministry, I have upheld our strategic commitment to maintain our allegiances and willingness to defend the dignity of man against those who deign to do otherwise. To our allies, I appeal to your courage and strength to never waver in our fight against aggression and recklessness. We must be willing to provide support militarily and to work intelligently to secure the best political outcomes in times of war and peace alike. As scripture teaches us, God’s greatest figures emerge from their conviction to fight for the vision of a better humanity. ON DOMESTIC POLITICS AND CALL FOR UNITY There is a disturbing pattern in Haeseni politics. It tends to disturb our common purpose in addressing the obstacles of our times. Animosity and the prioritization of special interests, particularly among the peerage, must not dictate our terms of engagement. Nor must we let these divisions diminish our unity. Individual ambitions cannot become the norm and we must not allow the temptation of personal gain to take over the soul of our kingdom. An enduring problem for our kingdom is the lack of cohesion. We must find within us a higher calling and to make the necessary sacrifices that will guarantee our prosperity. For years, our society has devolved in sectional politics that have prioritized ethnic and cultural differences before national identity. For too long, our society has been produced through localized agendas. This is an unsustainable model that I urge us to overcome. We must appeal to each other as Haeseni first. We have inherited and labored for a kingdom whose social, economic, and cultural strength has never been better. We have an obligation to protect our bountiful destiny no matter our individual and personal convictions. Our latest political reforms invite us to think more forwardly and collegially. I call upon our political life to heed a unified purpose. We must invest more into education, our military, and our agrarian productivity. These policies must be mutually beneficial. This is as it should be and nothing less can be accepted. ON THE OFFICE OF THE PALATINE I have just been talking about the forces of potential destruction that await us should we give into the worst in our nature. Yet, it is equally important to think of the responsibilities of those charged to prevent such matters from taking hold. It is important that the office of the Lord Palatine remains a strong one whose occupants command the respect of our denizens and the confidence to govern in the name of the Crown. The Chancellery of Haense is a sacred inheritance that began when Rickard Barrow served as a confidant and indispensable advisor to King Petyr. In the centuries since, it has evolved to meet the challenges of governance for each monarch. In our time, the Chancellery of the Palatine has seen a vital transformation to maintain the affairs of state. I am fortunate that Our stewardship has yielded the best in us—safeguarding our cultural patrimony, securing our alliances, committing to lowering our debt and stabilizing our economy, promoting transparency, and ensuring that our people enjoy a safe and cosmopolitan society. This is a powerful office whose institutional history must be appreciated and defended. I wish for all my successors the blessings that I can afford them that their work be for the betterment of all. CONCLUSION Finally, I want to reflect less upon the challenges of our times. Let us highlight the strength of our people. As your Palatine, I have been humbled by the many who make our kingdom greater. We see Haense in our laborers who steward the bountiful lands and rivers. We see Haense in our scholars and scribes as defenders of our cultural and historical record. We see Haense in our soldiers who tirelessly work to secure us against the threats beyond our borders who seek to take your rights and freedom from you. Ours is a kingdom with rich history and an ever-expansive horizon of possibility. I bid you all farewell knowing that the best is yet to come. IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Otto Gant, Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska and Baron of Gant

WEAPONS RESEARCH AND ARMAMENT DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT “I would have perished had I not persisted” Issued by the GANT CHANCELLERY On this 2nd day of Msitza & Dargundof 484 E.S. ARTICLE I The Dual Monarchy of Hanseti-Ruska and The Collective, hereon referred to as “the signatories”, mutually agree to enter into this beneficial partnership to aid in the development of weapons and research. ARTICLE II I. The Collective shall engage in Research of new weapons and armour for the Kingdom of Haense. During such times, the Collective will offer the Kingdom of Haense a discount on all items made under the agreement. II. The Collective shall charge no fee for any items ordered by the Crown within reason. III. The Collective shall issue the Crown and the Kingdom of Haense first option to buy any items created under the agreement. IV. The Collective will not engage in other RnD agreements with any other nations or factions while this agreement remains in effect. V. Cesar AP Komnenos will be first officer of the agreement and shall act on behalf of the Collective. VI. The Collective will adhere to a grace period of four years before they resell any item created under this agreement unless the Crown and the Kingdom of Haense wish to buy full rights to the item in question. ARTICLE III The Kingdom of Haense shall give the following to The Collective: I. A suitable workshop for no tax related fees. II. Funding for ordered items where objects need to be gotten by monetary means. III. Members of the collective shall have the right to remain unnamed. IV. all rights to items made under the agreement to the collective. ARTICLE IV I. The duration of this agreement shall be until both parties wish to end the agreement Under such ordeal both parties shall engage in a separation agreement to deal with outstanding orders and created items and parties under the collective shall still have the right to remain unnamed. SIGNED, His Excellency, Otto Gant, Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska and Baron of Gant His Royal Majesty, Aleksander II, by the Grace of Godan, King of Hanseti and Ruska, Grand Hetman of the Army, Hochmeister of the Order of the Crow, Prince of Bihar, Dules, Lahy, Muldav, Solvesborg, Slesvik and Ulgaard, Duke of Carnatia and Vanaheim, Margrave of Korstadt, Rothswald and Vasiland, Count of Alban, Siegrad, Werdenburg, Alimar, Baranya, Graiswald, Karikhov, Karovia, Kaunas, Kavat, Kovachgrad, Kvasz, Markev, Nenzing, Torun, Toruv, Valdev, and Werdenburg, Viscount of Varna, Baron of Esenstadt, Kraken’s Watch, Kralta, Krepost, Lorentz, Rytsburg, Buck, Thurant and Astfield, Lord of the Westfolk, Protector and Lord of the Highlanders, etcetera. On behalf of the Collective, His Lordship, Cesar A.P Komnenos, Baron of Westfall

“Ea byk zwem zanyotsk ter ea byk denpetravesk” Motto of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska ‘I would have perished had I not persisted’ THE MARIUS FILES orig. 372 E.S., 373 E.S.| pub. 484 E.S. Or, ENTRIES FROM THE JOURNALS OF DUNCAN KORTREVICH & PRINCE OTTO SIGMAR & PRINCE GODFRIC BRANIMAR DECLASSIFIED BY THE GANT COMMISSION FOREWORD FROM LORD PALATINE OTTO GANT The Marius Files, aptly named after King Marius II who led the Kingdom of Haense in the War of Two Emperors, shall be the last of the released files by the Gant Commission, and possibly the most disturbing. These files provide not only an account of conspiring to murder the Crown, but confirmation of the parties involved in the plot and successful assassination of King Marius II. It is important to note the context of this assassination, which took place after the loss at the Siege of Helena, and the bending of the knee by Haense’s allies, Curon and Ves, after the Marnan cause began to collapse following a string of losses. --- ENTRY FROM THE JOURNAL OF LORD DUNCAN KORTREVICH 272 E.S. Today we have learned of our ally’s cowardice in the face of adversity. The Republic of Ves has once again bent their knee to tyranny, pleading for their lives in exchange for the previous status quo of constant raids and harassment of their citizenry. It did not surprise me when Curon turned their back on us, the renowned rats have never known loyalty or honour, merely opportunism and exploitation but what else can you expect from a heartlander. I cannot deny my surprise and displeasure with our Raevir kin however, the people of Ves received the brunt of the Renatian wrath for many years before this devastating war, and even saw their city go up in flames by the Emperor’s hand. The “Golden Republic '' has turned out to be just another Gilded Oligarchy promising to fight for freedom and rights while making backroom deals for their own self-interests and personal wealth. This unfortunate news leads me to my other more troubling thought; what now? Emperor Joseph resided in Ves, and if they have turned their backs on the Marnan cause, where has our leader gone? King Marius seems determined and set in his ways to continue to support Emperor Joseph but when will he realize the cause is all but dead? The only one still fighting this war is us, and why should we support another Heartlander Emperor when they’ve all left us to clean up their mess? It is high time we blaze our own trail, and I am not the only one who believes it. Prince Otto Alimar has talked with me many times about how he and his brothers have tried to convince the King to declare Haense independent from any Empire or Emperors, yet he continues to fight for another man’s banner and pledge fealty to someone who offers us no aid or protection. Lord Regent Marius Baruch is inclined to the same way of thinking, as is the young Lord Erich Stafyr. The other noble houses grow weary of fighting for another man’s cause instead of our own, even my own kin the Lord Marshal and Knight Paramount show glimpses of their displeasure and frustration, although they would never say it outright. If King Marius does not change our course soon, I fear the worst not only for us, but for him. --- ENTRY FROM THE JOURNAL OF PRINCE OTTO SIGMAR 272 E.S. I tire of my words falling on deaf ears. My royal cousin Marius believes he knows best, that his policy will save this Kingdom and its people. What does he know? What has his policy given us so far? Some thousands dead of soldiers and citizenry alike, an Emperor in exile fleeing from his former vassals, a capital starved of food and dying of illness, and a rejuvenated enemy marching to finish us off. I fear what would happen if the people decide to take matters into their own hands. God knows morale is low enough that anything could happen! My one solace is the knowledge that I am not alone in these thoughts. My brother Godfric, Lord Duncan Kortrevich, and Ser Gerard Stafyr among others all share a disdain for the path our King has taken. Discontent is at a high, yet none seem to have an answer for how to correct our course and save our kingdom. But I do. I have found a man, a bastard brother of some sort to the King, named Hektor Barrow. The man is… troubled, noted to have delusions of grandeur and rage against the royal family for robbing him of his birthright (he claims to be the firstborn, albeit illegitimate, son of King Robert). Such a man should be carefully watched, to ensure that his thoughts do not turn into action against the King. It is good that the King has myself and Godfric beside him at all times to protect him, and loyal knights to keep such threats away from the palace. I know what must be done. If my writing is one day read, let no man doubt my devotion to my Kingdom or my people. Krusae zwy Kongzem. --- ENTRY FROM THE JOURNAL OF PRINCE GODFRIC BRANIMAR 273 E.S. It has now been one year, to the day, since Marius was killed. It happened as Otto had said: he and I would lure Marius into the palace garden, Ser Gerard would allow this Barrow character to breach the palace with a crossbow, Marius is shot and the Barrow is killed by the knight to silence our own involvement. Georg is now regent and peace talks have begun that may save us all, but why then do I feel such guilt for my actions? Marius’ decisions were questionable, this is true. If the war had continued in the manner he described, I doubt I would live to write this now. Countless people, soldiers and civilians alike, may survive if Georg gets his peace. All of these are objective goods, yet I feel as though I am not permitted to celebrate them. I have stained my honor with the blood of my kin in the service of people who will never know my name. Marius is the first King in our history to be murdered in such a way; even Andrik II was executed for treason by the Emperor, not killed by his own nobles. Only God knows what the future holds for us, and I pray that when my time comes, He shall look upon me with pity for the evil I have done in service of the good.

DECLARATION OF REGENCY, 483 E.S. “I would have perished had I not persisted” Issued by the GANT CHANCELLERY In accordance with the wishes of the CROWN On this 10th day of Vyzmey and Hyff of 483 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, In the early hours before daybreak, the King embarked on a sacred pilgrimage in the pursuit of knowledge to explore the continent and its many wonders. Prior to his leave, he issued that the Lord Palatine, Otto Gant, serves as his regent in this period. Until his announced return, the Lord Gant shall be the ultimate authority in all matters of state and maintain the integrity of the nation and the Crown on the King’s behalf. IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Otto Gant, Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska and Baron of Gant

CHANCELLOR’S REPORT: THE MORRIVI OF PROSPERITY Issued by the GANT CHANCELLERY On this 4th day of Vzmey & Hyff of 482 E.S. Va Birodeo Herzenav ag Edlervik, I address you with a solemn and still heart as our nation is in bereavement in light of the loss of our king, Georg. His passing leaves us with much to reflect upon as generations of Haeseni will speak of his legacy and the moments of his reign as an era of great reform and uplift. The foundation he leaves us is not a final farewell but an invitation to continue the work left to be done. I call upon you all Haeseni to enjoin the national effort to renew our promise to the late king’s memory and to usher in what I know will be an age of greatness—the Morrivi of Prosperity. A century and a half ago, my predecessor in this office and our beloved late Benedict Cardinal Jorenus, warned of difficult times, a dark winter of discontent—the Dark Nikirala. During his day, Haense had experienced its difficult moments with malaise, a rise in crime, uneasy relations, and an amoral Church under Owyn III. I can say with confidence that the spring of prosperity is upon us. The time to rejoice is nigh. We stand ever more poised to strengthen the bonds of unity toward a better future. In the Morrivi of Prosperity, for the first time in a generation, more Haeseni can afford their own home. More of our children have the opportunity to receive higher education. Income has never been better with more Haeseni families earning more mina. Our citizens can choose who they love. Our society is changing and our values remain true and withstand the test of time. It has never been a better time to call Haense home. As the season of Morrivi imparts to us, we must be grateful for the bountiful life and the blessings of God that continue to pour forth from the emanations of glory. During my chancellery, we have undertaken bold initiatives to revitalize our cultural unity, to shepherd an age of scholastic renaissance, and the bolstering of our military and diplomatic corps. What cannot be overstated is the tireless efforts of you, the Haeseni people. In the days that test us, we continue to be a bulwark of humanity. I address you all in the spirit of the Morrivi of Prosperity. In our economic affairs, we have lowered our debts and formed an equitable revenues system to support the rapidly expanding markets within our kingdom. In education, we have developed a system to reform and increase literacy, make transparent the records of state, and update our sacred historical record that maintains the traditions and memory of our nation. In our political life, the reforms promulgated by His Late Majesty are now in full force to grow public discourse and legislative process in the first elections of the People’s Duma. This is what a strong, united, and educated society can do together. As your Palatine, it is my honor to uphold the kingdom’s interests in the name of His Royal Majesty’s government. Yet, what remains before us is still at hand. Morrivi cannot come without hard days. The ever persistent threat of geopolitical instability remains an enduring concern of which we pledge our unwavering efforts to maintain the peace. We cannot take any moment for granted while we secure the blessings of a safe and bright horizon for our posterity. Rogue states like Adria and their illegally sanctioned sovereignty present a security and moral dilemma for the world. I call upon all nations to enjoin in collective condemnation of their lawless actions. States like these, and their insurgent allies, constitute an axis of wickedness, forever tarnishing the fabric of a civilized humanity. We must continue to condemn and support the Will of God as directed by the Church and her agents. If we succeed, generations of Haeseni to come will say of us now living that we fulfilled this moment, that we helped make the world safe for mankind. The flowers of freedom spring forth in this Morrivi, and I say to you my fellow Haeseni, we are an isle of illumination. I will keep Haense moving forward, always forward, for a better future, for an endless enduring vision and a thousand points of Light. This is my mandate, and I will accomplish it. May God bless our King Aleksandr. IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Otto Gant, Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska and Baron of Gant

THE VIKTORIAN EDICT VE VIKTORIAN EDYKT “I would have perished had I not persisted” Issued by the GANT CHANCELLERY On this 7th day of Tov and Yermey of 481 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, Over the course of the last several decades, Our Great Kingdom has flourished and developed an overarching sense of prosperity and tranquility as a result. Considering the progress that has been made, it is only appropriate for us to additionally acknowledge the mistakes that have also been made by Our Own Government. Hence, the Gant Chancellery’s commitment to transparency through our recent declassification of royal files. In conjunction with the establishment of the Georgian Museum of Histories, the Gant Chancellery recommits to Our promise in ensuring Haeseni history is not only taught but preserved for future generations to behold. For which We make a new promise, in amending the errors of our predecessors, who oversaw the dissolvement of the Royal Academy of Saint Charles and the Royal Archives of Haense. Studies have indicated this has caused Haeseni literacy rates to plummet generation after generation. As per the wishes set by acclaimed scholar, Valtakossar Sir Viktor Kortrevich, former Royal Curator of Haense, We seek to appropriately reallocate funding to the defunct Royal Archives, so that they may be revitalized to proper standing and so that they remain updated by future chancelleries and monarchs. Additionally, We seek to provide affordable education to Our future generations, so that they are raised in a more educated and affluent society. We do therefore Proclaim the Following: ROYAL ARCHIVES I. The Crown hereby allocates funds to the Royal Archives for the purpose of hiring freelance scribes to update and preserve the history of the Kingdom of Hansetti-Ruska. -The following publications and records are in need of updating: I. Kings & Consorts II. Lord Palatines III. Lord Marshals IV. Lord Speakers V. Nobility VI. High Justiciars VII. High Seneschals VIII. Royal Treasurers IX. Lord Emissars II. The Crown henceforth requires for the Royal Archives to be updated every twelve years. - This responsibility falls to the Lord Palatine and the Chancellor of the Museum. - The Crown does hold the right to suspend this time requirement should it be necessary. III. The Crown henceforth requires the Archives to release a detailed study on historical figures every six years. - The Crown does hold the right to suspend this time requirement should it be necessary. FREE EDUCATION I. The Crown and Chancellery hereby mandates free education for the youth of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska for those between the ages of 6-21. II. Those between the ages of 6-21 shall receive free admission into Georgian Museum of Histories. This applies to those both of common and noble descent. III. Those between the ages of 6-21 shall receive free access to Haeseni Public Library and the books within. This applies to those both of common and noble descent. IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Otto Gant, Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska and Baron of Gant

“Ea byk zwem zanyotsk ter ea byk denpetravesk” Motto of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska ‘I would have perished had I not persisted’ THE MULDAV FILES orig. 313 E.S., 334 E.S.| pub. 481 E.S. Or, A STRATEGY TO BRING ABOUT THE PEACEFUL SEPARATION OF HAENSE AND OREN BY LORD PALATINE OTTO SIGMAR & DEPUTY PALATINE PETYR BARUCH AND LETTERS TO KING JOSEF I BY MEMBER OF COMMONS LUKAS RAKOCZY & LORD SPEAKER VIKTOR KORTREVICH DECLASSIFIED BY THE GANT COMMISSION CIRCULAR FROM THE OTTO SIGMAR CHANCELLERY, 313 E.S. Top Secret - Aulic Council Only (A.C.O.) 1. GENERAL This circular describes thorough instructions and details on this government’s desire to bring a peaceful separation between the states of Haense and Oren in light of increased efforts at centralizing governance within Helena. 2. POLICY In accordance with the wishes of King Sigismund II, all communication between Aulic Councillors and Imperial Ministers and their offices is to be as restricted as possible. Responses must be succinct, lacking in detail, or totally fabricated so as to cause frustration within the Imperial ministries. All discussions regarding centralization of law code, merging of militaries, imposition of taxes, or ennoblement must be met with firm resistance. It must be made clear that, unless at the explicit instruction of the King, this Chancellery will not give ground on these issues. Within the Imperial Diet, elected Haeseni representatives will be briefed on this Chancellery’s objectives. Elected officials are to obstruct, to the best of their ability, any efforts by the legislature to centralize any aspect of governance including but not limited to: taxes, ennoblement, military, the judiciary, etcetera. Any attempts by Heartlander officials to assume control over Haeseni territory, through hidden loopholes in national park legislation or otherwise, will be soundly obstructed and rejected by Haeseni representatives. In addition to obstruction within the legislature, Haeseni candidates for the Josephite party will be hand-picked by the Chancellery to run for office. The Crown will also directly endorse the Josephite party (or whichever party is deemed to be most aligned with Haense’s interests) to guarantee electoral victories in the Kingdom for their candidates. Domestically, this Chancellery will paint Heartlanders as ‘the Other’. This will be to both unite the Haeseni people under their shared heritage as heirs to the Highlands and their loyalty to the Crown and Barbanov, and to paint Heartlanders as the enemy who seeks to take their freedom from them. To this end, any documents produced by this Chancellery will make the clear distinction between ‘Haeseni’ and ‘Orenian’, further driving the notion of the two peoples’ need to be separate. This distinction is also to be made in everyday conversation; any attempt by Imperial officials to refer to the Haeseni people as ‘Imperials’ is to be repudiated at every possible opportunity. 3. CLASSIFICATION Under no circumstances is this circular to be shared outside of the Aulic Council. Any and all implication of coordinated effort to obstruct Imperial governance and promote Haeseni autonomy and independence is to be met with zealous denial until such a time as the Crown sees fit to declassify this circular. --- LETTER FROM LUKAS RAKOCZY TO KING JOSEF, 334 E.S. Top Secret - Aulic Council Only (A.C.O.) To His Majesty Josef, King of Hanseti and Ruska, I pray that you are in good health and spirit and, if you are not, that my words shall bring you that joy you currently lack. Your operatives in the Imperial Diet continue to serve you well. Haeseni representatives, though separated by party affiliation, are united in their resistance to Imperial centralization. I myself have aligned myself with Lauritz Christiansen, the only Independent in the House. Together, and with the support of the Everardines, we have passed bills which lay the groundwork for greater autonomy and authority for you. The Lemonade Reforms, as my colleague has named them, will be of great use in our quest to enshrine greater provincial rights within the law. We have also been granted a great opportunity in Helena. Conrad Barclay, a Haeseni Member of Commons and member of the Electoral Commission in the Ministry of Civil Affairs, has taken possession of the official voter rolls for Haense and Helena. Upon closer inspection and analysis, we have confirmed that many of these registered voters are fake, dead, or otherwise incapacitated and unable to vote. Mister Barclay has also alerted me that the only criteria used to verify a vote is whether said voter is registered within the voter roll. This means that I, in the name of these incapable citizens, would be able to cast a vote for our Haeseni candidates. Through careful planning, this could be used to ensure an electoral victory for all Haeseni candidates, giving the Crown a supermajority within the House of Commons. Such an advantage would undoubtedly be of great use to your cause, sire! There would be no progress in the House without your say so! Josephite bills which seek to strip your authority piece by piece would be dead on arrival, while those bills proposed by our fellow Haeseni to further our cause would be guaranteed passage. I would not dare to take such drastic action without your express approval, my King. If it is your will, I shall begin my forgeries of ballots posthaste. I shall continue to pray for your good health. Your loyal servant, MHC Lukas Rakoczy --- LETTER FROM VIKTOR KORTREVICH TO KING JOSEF, 339 E.S. Top Secret - Aulic Council Only (A.C.O.) To His Royal Majesty King Josef I, It is my greatest hope you receive this letter promptly as the contents of which pertain to the suppressive Imperial subjugation and the foresight on the future of Our Great Kingdom. For twelve years, I have been elected as Lord Speaker of Oren. In this role, I have represented Haeseni interests abroad and have been one of the leading Haeseni voices that have lobbied for Haeseni autonomy. In a concerted effort, I have worked alongside the Haeseni delegation in the House of Commons to achieve the goals of ennoblement rights, military independence, legal jurisdictional autonomy, and the rejection of taxation, as was originally set up by the Otto Sigmar Chancellery some years ago. Within the sixteenth diet, I established a rapport with the Orenian coalition and through contentious debate granted the houses of Vyronov and Ludovar their respective barony and county, resulting in your father’s vassal ennoblement rights to be restored. Through the seventeenth diet, I fervently opposed centralization efforts with regard to conscription into the Imperial State Army. As a result, the Haeseni Royal Army remained autonomous. Most recently in the eighteenth diet, I worked diligently as an opponent towards Imperial taxation over provincial Haense. As a result, the Haeseni subjects weren’t groundlessly burdened with demanding taxes and were able to support local Haeseni businesses instead. Despite all of these coordinated efforts to oppose the Novellan Empire’s unjust acts of persecution and exploitation, Imperial overreach persists. Your Majesty, we as Haeseni deserve autonomy as an independent nation, we as Haeseni deserve to be led by a Haeseni not an Orenian. At the end of this year, I anticipate returning to the nineteenth Imperial diet; for which I will seek re-election as Lord Speaker at your behest, though I fear this will be unlawfully prohibited as tensions continue to rise between Our two nations. Considering these facts along with the partisan divide within the Imperial Diet; I fear the separation between our two nations to be inevitable. As a loyal vassal and confidante of the Crown, let us begin negotiations of a peaceful disconnect, for we are on the brink of war at an age where technology has become so advanced. Yours faithfully, Sir Viktor Kortrevich HKML, Lord Speaker of Oren, Margrave of Korstadt, Viscount of Krusev, Baron of Koravia

WRIT OF APPOINTMENT: DEPUTY PALATINE & LORD REGULATOR OF THE REALM “I would have perished had I not persisted” Issued by the GANT CHANCELLERY In accordance with the wishes of the CROWN On this 7th day of Jula and Piov of 481 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, After the successful planning and construction of Valdev with the help of many diligent and patriotic Haensemen, the Lord Palatine can once again turn his attention to governance and the advancements of new ideas in this, our Morrivi of Prosperity. With this being a focal point of the Chancellery, the Lord Palatine wishes for a fresh flow of ideas and new blood to reinvigorate his office. In order to facilitate this, the Chancellery shall create the position of Lord Regulator to oversee and regulate the coming debate of landed nobility. The Lord Regulator shall be tasked with administering and enforcing the rules the Crown creates for his peerage and the specifications with which they can build their homes. Should they overstep or take advantage of these rules, the Lord Regulator shall be tasked with ordering the constructed lands to adhere to the requirements. If they fail to meet expectations a second time, or deny the request, the Lord Regulator along with the Lord Marshall and Brotherhood shall be charged with demolishing the constructed building in question and razing the lands, the peer and his family shall also be brought forth to face the charge of High Treason against the Crown, for which the punishment is death of the Patriarch and stripping of titles completely from the family. After the earnest work of Lord Aleksander var Ruthern in his time as Deputy, the Lord Palatine and the Duke have come to an agreement to part ways, vacating the position of Deputy Palatine and stepping into the position of the newly formed Lord Regulator. The Lord Palatine has seen fit to appoint the young Duchess of Valwyck, Lady Roslin Baruch as the new Deputy Palatine. The Chancellery thanks the Duke Ruthern for his diligent work during his tenure as Deputy, and places the utmost faith in the new Deputy, Duchess Roslin. It is the Palatine’s belief that we have much more to accomplish before this Morrivi of Prosperity ends. IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Otto Gant, Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska and Baron of Gant

A landscape of Lake Voron, circa. 454 E.S. Naf zwy 5th hag i Joma ag Umund i 476 E.S. PENNED BY: HOLLY RODDAM @Piov & OTTO MALCOLM GANT @Drew2_dude The kingdom is at a pivotal point. As the leading polity with vibrant culture and boundless growth, Haense is in a position to embark in new directions to invigorate its burgeoning social, political, and territorial integrity. This pivotal point can be understood as a moment of multitudes characterized by the advancement of Haense in arenas that demonstrate her enduring presence and ever-expanding horizons. To understand our present, we must first be mindful of how we got here. Regarding the preceding long century, our reflection encompasses events between 339 to 459 E.S. (1786-1906 IC). Spanning across four reigns, Haense’s Almaris Century underscores the evolutionary viewpoints by which modern Haeseni geopolitics is established. Since Haeseni independence, King Josef’s reign saw the beginnings of a new vision for the kingdom’s objectives. Haense emerged as a leading power that cultivated some of the unlikeliest of alliances. Forging new ties and overcoming prejudices from centuries-old grievances, King Josef’s reign saw a novel alignment that rekindled mutual interests with Dwarven and Norlandic diplomacy through the Iron Accords. Safeguarding against potential encroachment, Haense had proven its ability to act through its independent will and ensured its sovereign integrity in an increasingly complex Almarisian political topography. Scenes from the Sutican Intervention, 387 E.S. His successor, Henrik II, affirmed the sovereign and diplomatic ties that maintained mutual respect among nations and safeguarded Haeseni interests as the kingdom increasingly participated in interregional affairs. The Sutican Intervention saw Haense’s expansive military and geographical presence. Deploying military and economic aid to buttress support for Johanna I as head of the Sutican Trade Principality, Henrik II’s reign ushered in the kingdom’s decisive action in shaping the order of the Almarisian Southlands. Yet, Henrik II’s enduring legacy in the shaping of Haeseni foreign affairs was his assertion of the Heinrik II Doctrine. The brainchild of Emissar Andrik Jan Baruch, Haeseni foreign policy was enshrined as an official position adopted by the Monarchy. The doctrine marked a watershed moment in the kingdom’s orientation to the political dynamics that would come to define Haense’s Almaris Century. The doctrine underscored Haense’s unrelenting commitment to maintain her treaty obligations and to furnish all necessary military and economic responsibilities for the defense of human freedom, the Jeremic Liberties, against illiberal rogue states and those who threaten Canonist Princedoms. Accompanying these efforts was an acute investment in Haense’s martial capacity and a strategic outward projection of her cultural cosmopolitanism. Another test to Haense’s resolve came with the reign of King Sigismund III during the onset of the Sinner’s War. Haense’s foreign policy entered into the contentious field of ecclesiastical and Heartland political antagonisms. The Heartlander fissures, the conflict ensuing with Dwarven forces, and the Pontifical reproach of Imperial virtue positioned Haeseni arbitration as a vital partner in upholding the Church’s declarations and maintaining the precedents according to the Iron Accords. For the third time in history, the Haeseni sovereign was named Fidei Defensor. Haeseni Royal Standard The reign of King Karl III reflected the result of many decisive outcomes in the reshaping of human political realms. Karl’s era marked the ascendency of the Haeseni position as one characterized by longevity, prosperity, and unprecedented expansionism. Her territories, her commerce, her sociality, and her diversity are widely enjoyed by her denizens. The incorporation of new peoples saw the dramatic refashioning of a modern and vibrant Haeseni people. The reconfiguration of political affairs across the domain of humanity also created new opportunities for cultural resurgence, an influx of immigration, the negotiation of new commercial centers, and the spark of innovation. The Nikirala of Discontent is over. Morrivi is upon us. Haense’s Almaris Century tells us that the horizon of possibilities is for the Haeseni people to determine. Apprehending that horizon is what is incumbent for a free and proud self-determined nation. Reckoning with the past is necessary to avoid the foreclosure of a future. Bearing no ill will to the old ties that once bound us with the Heartlands, Haense continues to reflect in the present moment to be cooperators of a free and just world. We look to the future to engender new forms of solidarity and rapprochement. The Haeseni writer, Jan Wielki (or John Walker), once asked: “What is Haense?” We argue that this question must be taken up again in our time. As Wielki compellingly reminds us in his essay, Haense: The Frontier State: “This was the Haeseni identity: the relationship between the individual man, his ambition, and the wilderness that was his home. A Haenseman was an individual who struck out to places yet unexplored- the proverbial the edge of the map- to find his fame, to find his fortune, and to find himself. Indeed; the only times that Haense has ever been master of its own destiny, ever truly ‘mounted the world,’ have been when it fully embraced this immutable fact of its existence.” ~ Jan Wielki We assert that Haense’s Almaris Century is a joyful era, a long century of her expansion, increasing cultural wealth, and geopolitical primacy. In the formation of Haense’s sovereignty, the patrimony that all generations have inherited are encapsulated by the national motto: perrisem ne perrisem (I would have perished had I not persisted). The culmination of this ethos has materialized into Haense’s Almaris Century. The kingdom has enjoyed the fruits of her persistence and will marshal the enduring strength of her people to fulfill the national interest. Haense is an idea with a constant gaze toward utopic worlds. The last Haeseni frost before the arrival of Morrivi, 463 E.S. King Georg has led a multifaceted and incredulous example to renew Haense’s regional and worldly commitment to the kingdom’s relations with others. An inclusive vision requires assessing capacious ways to provide for a rapidly changing society and its accompanying changing geopolitical polarities. Within the domestic front, Karosgrad has continued the promise of its allure, welcoming new faces and pursuing new desires in a world otherwise ravaged by arduousness and uncertainty. What is certain now more than ever is the boundless optimism among the Haeseni. Haense is great because Haense is good. Beyond our borders, there are those who are wondering about Haense’s intentions—our willingness to remain resolute and to lead with conviction. They ask whether or not Haense is fully committed, or can continue to cohere to a singular vision, or if her people have the courage to chart new frontiers and protect longstanding values. The answer is resoundingly “Da”.

WRIT OF APPOINTMENT: DEPUTY PALATINE OF THE REALM “I would have perished had I not persisted” Issued by the GANT CHANCELLERY In accordance with the wishes of the CROWN On this 1st day of Msitza and Dargund of 476 E.S. VA BIRODEO HERZENAV AG EDLERVIK, Following the appointment of Lord Carolus Colborn to the position of Lord Speaker, where he shall sit for the foreseeable future as we enter this new era of the Royal Duma which requires much guidance, the position of Deputy Palatine has been vacated. With the attention of the Chancellery being now primarily focused on forming a back-up stronghold for our nation, should the Mori continue their conquest and capture the Red Jewel of Karosgrad from us, the administration and overseeing of the government is in need to fill this vacancy of deputy immediately, as to alleviate some of the burden of work piling up on the Palatine’s desk. With this in mind, Lord Aleksandr var Ruthern (@Demavend) shall be appointed to the position of Deputy Palatine, where his experience as Grand Peer and Duke in administering and overseeing Vidaus and other nobility shall be very useful. Upon the lightening of the workload and end of the Mori Conflict, be it our evacuation of Karosgrad or victory over the Mori, this appointment shall be reconsidered if a need for new blood arises. We have the utmost faith in the Duke Ruthern’s ability, and believe he shall be vital to the work of the Crown. IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Otto Gant, Lord Palatine of Hanseti-Ruska and Baron of Gant

THE GANT CHANCELLERY THE CROWN’S ADVISORY COUNCIL “I would have perished had I not persisted” A Landscape of the Royal City of Karosgrad, circa. 475 E.S. On this 7th day of Jula and Piov of 475 E.S. With the appointment of Otto Gant to the Chancellery, he seeks to form a new government in the name of King Georg I upon the principles established by the former Ministry. It is with this in mind, that the Councillors of the Basrid Ministry are relieved of their posts so that the new Chancellor of the Aulic Council may appoint who he deems best fit for the transformation of the Aulic Government. The Aulic Council, as established herein, is the King’s Advisory Council, which shall be headed by the Lord Palatine, the only permanent member of the Council. All other positions within are summoned by their own merit by the Will of the Crown, under the day to day management of the Palatine. These positions which shall be summoned to the Aulic Council are done so with basis to the merit of the position, as well as the competency, loyalty, and perseverance of those who hold the aforementioned positions. Furthermore, new positions may be summoned to the Aulic Council by the Will of the Crown, and no position, except the Lord Palatine, is guaranteed a seat. The Lord Palatine wishes to give insight into the Crown’s new Aulic Council, its positions and those who hold them, as well as the duties of these people. Therefore, this document is published in the name of transparency to alleviate misconceptions of the government. THE CROWN HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, GEORG SIGMUND, KING OF HANSETI AND RUSKA AS THE MONARCH 458 E.S. - Present | 1905 A.H.- Present @gusano The eldest son of King Karl III ‘the Lion’ and Queen Amadea of Susa, HRM King Georg I ascended to the throne in 458 E.S. His reign has since lasted sixteen years, and as we soon enter the seventeenth, the King can look back on a prosperous reign, in which Haeseni foreign policy has flourished, and judicial reforms have brought life back to the Aulic Court. Still a lively Monarch, the King seeks to further invigorate the institutions of the Kingdom, presently occupied with reforms to the Royal Duma (and by extent the noble class), while simultaneously managing ever pressing diplomatic affairs due to the ongoing conflicts. Nevertheless, the King greets most with a smile. THE CHANCELLERY HIS EXCELLENCY, OTTO GANT AS THE LORD PALATINE 474 E.S. - Present | 1921 A.H.- Present @Drew2_dude Otto Gant, serving as XXXVII Palatin and wielder of the Golden Bulava, is entrusted as the penultimate authority of the Realm, second only to the Crown. The Lord Palatine leads the State as Chancellor of the Government and first counsel to the Crown at his behest. Otto Gant rose to prominence through his service as Lord-Regent of the Duchy of Valwyck after the abdication of Valdemar I. As a Respected Statesman in the Aulic Government, The Lord Palatine gained his reputation through his tenure in the Royal Duma and service as Lord Emissar of the Crown. He served as King Georg’s cupbearer at a young age, where he became a close friend and confidant of the young king. THE HONOURABLE, CAROLUS COLBORN, VISCOUNT OF VENZIA AS THE LORD SPEAKER 475 E.S. - Present | 1922 A.H.- Present @Seuss The Viscount of Venzia, serving as XIX Herzen and wielder of the Black Bulava on an interim basis while the Royal Duma faces reform and restructuring. The Lord Speaker is entrusted as the presiding Officer of the Royal Duma, responsible for calling forth sessions during each term, facilitating the deliberation of the Royal Duma, and for delivering legislation to the Crown to receive Royal Assent. The Viscount of Venzia served as the Deputy Palatine to Lord Palatine Iosif Basrid, and proved himself to be an earnest and respectable statesman with a brilliant mind. After the appointment of The Duke of Reinmar to the position of Marshal, The Crown eagerly appointed the Viscount to the position, as he was the most obvious and qualified choice to continue on as Interim Speaker until the body was reformed. HIS GRACE, WILHEIM BARCLAY, DUKE OF REINMAR AS THE LORD MARSHAL 475 E.S. - Present | 1922 A.H.- Present @Fionn__TWG The Duke of Reinmar, serving as XXIII Hauckomandant and wielder of the Iron Bulava during the reign of King Georg. The Lord Marshal is entrusted as the commanding officer of the Kingdom’s national military, his authority second only to that of the Crown, and tasked with leading the defence of the Realm. The Duke of Reinmar served as the Lord Speaker under King Georg for many years, aiding in conducting the Duma reforms. After the resignation of Lord Marshal Sebastian Bishop, The Duke was quickly appointed as his replacement after recommendation from his fellow officers, and for the dire need of leadership against the Mori and anathema Adrians within the Brotherhood. HIS EXCELLENCY, SER VANHART VON ALSTRIEM AS THE LORD TREASURER 462 E.S. - Present | 1909 A.H.- Present @Xarkly Ser Vanhart von Alstriem, serving as XI Aranyiaz and wielder of the Silver Bulava, is entrusted as the Head of the Golden Edvard Amador Bank, holding authority over upholding the Kingdom’s economic affairs, second in this matter only to the Crown, and tasked with advising the Crown on matters of economy. Ser Vanhart served as the Duke-Consort to the Duchy of Reinmar for many years before Lord Wilheim Barclay succeeded to the position of Duke. After this, The Crown quickly named Ser Vanhart to the Marian retinue to protect the King and Royal family that he had grown close with over the years. After the resignation of Maric Colborn as Treasurer, The Crown decided to appoint Ser Vanhart to the position, knowing of his diligent work and book-keeping during his tenure as Duke-Consort and Steward of Reinmar. HER LADYSHIP, ALYONA GODUNOV, BARONESS OF VERSKAYA AS THE LADY EMISSAR 475 E.S. - Present | 1922 A.H.- Present @ibiou The Baroness of Verskaya, serving as XIV Szara and wielder of the Ivory Bulava, entrusted with the diplomatic responsibilities, taking care of international correspondence, as well as drafting and negotiating international treaties and pacts, the establishment of the Crown’s embassies abroad, and the hosting of foreign ambassadors in our Realm. After the appointment of Otto Gant to Lord Palatine, the position of Emissar was left vacant. The Chancellery searched out youthful and energetic candidates that would continue to restore the Ministry to its former prestige. Alyona was determined to be a prime candidate for the appointment after a meeting with Otto and the Crown, and it was decided that she would be entrusted with the task to build up the Ministry once more. HER GRACE, JOSEFINA BARCLAY, DUCHESS OF REINMAR AS THE HIGH SENESCHAL 459 E.S. - Present | 1906 A.H.- Present @crazedpudding The Duchess of Reinmar, serving as XXII Styuard and wielder of the Copper Bulava, is entrusted with overseeing the administration of the Royal Capital and the Crown’s direct lands, as well as keeping record of lands and infrastructure, maintaining and promoting immigration policy, and advising the Crown on matters of interior administration. Previously a keen member of the stewardry beneath the Treasury, Josefina Barclay has brought a renewed enthusiasm to a position which had long suffered until the point where it had been removed as an advisor to King Karl III. With its resurgence upon the Advisory Council of King Georg, it is hoped that the position will re-enter a new age of swift and diligent administration under the leadership of the Duchess. HER EXCELLENCY, VIORICA KORTREVICH, AS THE GRAND LADY 459 E.S. - Present | 1906 A.H.- Present @sarahbarah The former Countess of Jerovitz, serving as XXII Haucherzenas and wielder of the Rose Bulava, is tasked with the maintenance and administration of the Royal Palace, preserving and building upon the etiquette and culture of the Kingdom, and overseeing the various positions of the Royal Court. A long-time friend of both King and Queen, and a previous high-standing member of the Royal Court, serving as Lady Chamberlain to King Karl III and Queen Amadea, as well as being Consort to the Count of Jerovitz, Viorica has shown herself superbly capable within the Realm of Courtly Matters, and stands as a vital figure as they embark on a new era. SER VLADIMIR VAR RUTHERN AS THE KNIGHT PARAMOUNT 471 E.S. - Present | 1918 A.H.- Present @Dyl Ser Vladimir var Ruthern, serving as XX Kossarowain and wielder of the Steel Bulava, is the First Knight of the Table, tasked with watching over all other Knights and their Squires in their course of duties and ensuring that the Order runs with unquestioned integrity. Ser Vladimir served as a Marian Knight and dear friend and protector to King Georg many years before his appointment to the position of Knight Paramount. After the retirement of Ser Conrad Barclay, The Crown easily determined that Ser Vlad would be the best choice to carry out much-needed reforms to the knightly orders of the Kingdom of Haense. [REDACTED] AS THE EYE OF KAROV [REDACTED] [REDACTED]. - Present | [REDACTED] - Present @[REDACTED] [REDACTED]

“Ea byk zwem zanyotsk ter ea byk denpetravesk” Motto of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska ‘I would have perished had I not persisted’ THE VYRONOV CONSPIRACY FILES orig. 285 E.S. | pub. 473 E.S. Or, A REPORT ON THE DEATH OF LORD PALATINE GEORG ALIMAR BY PRINCE OTTO SIGMAR & COUNT SIGMAR BARUCH DECLASSIFIED BY THE GANT COMMISSION FOREWORD FROM HIS MAJESTY GEORG I A couple of years ago, We and Our Confidante, Otto Gant, whom has served faithfully as both Deputy Palatine and Aulic Envoy previously, and who now has assumed the mantle of Our Lord Palatine, uncovered a series of older documents written by statesmen of Haeseni past. This document which you will now read is the first of many which I have tasked the new Lord Palatine with declassifying. Here, upon the 200th anniversary of the death of Prince Georg Alimar, Lord Palatine during the War of the Two Emperors, and Our own namesake, shall Lord Palatine Otto Gant begin and form the Gant Commission, tasked with procuring and declassifying old, previously restricted documents, so that this Kingdom may gain insight into the history long ago, and further develop a culture of transparent governance. Damar lifsti va Edlerviki. SUMMARY This report was compiled by Prince Otto Sigmar, brother of the late Lord Palatine, and Lord Sigmar Baruch, Count of Ayr, to uncover the untimely events leading up to and following the death of Prince Georg Stanimar of the House of Barbanov-Alimar and his brother Prince Godfric Branimar. Detailing below, our findings follow the timeline of events that were likely a result of a concerted effort by the House of Vyronov to oust the Alimar Regency. DETAILS In 271 E.S. (1718 A.H.) Prince Georg Stanimar of House Barbanov-Alimar was appointed as Lord Palatine and Regent of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska following the sudden death of King Marius II by an assailant. Some in the court of King Marius II were dissatisfied that a member of the Alimar branch was chosen to head the Aulic Government. It was evident that Lord Lerald Vyronov was a favored candidate among the Haeseni peerage. Following the announcement in the throne room, Lord Vyronov and Prince Georg were seen to have a tense exchange before the former departed the capital to return to Graiswald. It is assumed that Prince Georg appointed Lord Vyronov as Deputy Palatine, and therefore a heartbeat away from the Chancellery, in an attempt to calm the tensions between the two factions in government. Two years later, Prince Georg (then acting as Regent to the young King Andrik III) was kidnapped in the Harold Bell tavern of the capital city of Old Reza by Renatian Dragon Knights and executed in Helena. Taken alongside him were Prince Godfric Branimar and Ser Ulric Vyronov, of whom only the latter returned alive with only minor cuts and bruises. An investigation into the events of this night by Royal Agent Siegmund Corbish concluded that the two Alimars were inebriated. The barmaid on duty that night revealed that Ser Ulric had been the one to buy the drinks that night, and that he had actively encouraged the Princes to drink more. Soon after the murder of the Princes, Lord Lerald Vyronov was promoted to the office of Lord Palatine and quickly moved to secure his position. He organized the betrothal of his young daughter, Lady Katharina, to King Andrik III and any whispers of a conspiracy were suppressed by the Palatine, with offenders sent into exile or sworn to silence under penalty of death. Agent Corbish reports that he observed Ser Ulric having sporadic bouts of regret, confessing his guilt to any who would listen, namely his wife Dame Primrose Kortrevich; though this was often dismissed as the ramblings of a mad man. These outbursts continued until the Lord Palatine held a secret meeting with his brother, the content of which our agent was unable to attain. Ser Ulric was unexpectedly murdered five years later by Erik Kortrevich, a known associate of Lord Vyronov. After rumors of the ‘Vyronov Conspiracy’ began to spread across the demesne of Haense, Lord Vyronov decreased his display of public affairs as he developed a deep sense of paranoia and delusions. By 1732, Lerald Vyronov’s health rapidly deteriorated as he contracted an unknown illness. On his short death-bed, he maintained his innocence to the series of allegations pinned against him. CONCLUSION In our report, we can conclude that it was highly likely that the House of Vyronov led a conscious effort to oust the Alimar Regency. We pen these words in the years following the end of the Vyronov ministry and hope that this report might be considered part of the royal archives.