erictafoya

"To the Honorable Alderman, Royal Inquisitor Anders Kortrevich, I'd first like to address that your point on referencing the 'Guide of the Royal Duma' is both decades old and holds no legal weight. It merely states a precedent that has been set for a century, though that does not mean that it is legally binding. In fact, I am not the only Lord Speaker to show bias or impartiality. I have never taken an oath like that when I took Office, I merely accepted the duty that was given to me. I follow what is written into law and what I am commanded to do, not what is written in a guide. Therefore, it is not a duty for me to be impartial, rather a precedent that I can choose to follow or abandon as is my legal right. I say again, no where in the Haural Caezk does it ever state that my position has to be impartial. However, this does not mean that I am choosing to abandon that precedent. I did indeed swear to the Koeng himself that I would improve the way I handled sittings of the Royal Duma. If I showed an ounce of bias in that previous session, he would have removed me already as he was present. The sole reason as to why I invited you is so that there is an odd amount of signatories and so you can ensure that the process is as unbiased as possible. The Spring Edict has nothing to do with the position of the Speaker, rather the entire office that I manage and other changes to the Office of the Maer, as is why the Grand Maer was also invited for his input. As for the previous session, I admit that I was tired that day and was not of clear mind. However, I do hold evidence of myself consulting the Lord Handler. He is my deputy, and his opinion was valued in my decision making. I went against his word only because the organization of the previous session was messy and because I understand the importance of the reason of Canonism within the Aulic Offices. As for your request for my resignation, you are not the first nor will you be the last to try. I've never quit unless commanded to do so by our Koeng. His Holiness, High Pontiff Tylos I, already knows all of my sins. I confessed to him a long time ago on actual sins, not because I simply have an opinion that I am entitled to." Signed, His Excellency, The Lord Speaker, Igor Kort [!] A quick response is sent to Anders via teenage courier

A CALL FOR COMPROMISE [!] Lord Speaker Igor Kort writing in his office after a session of Duma, 376 E.S. [!] The letter is published to the entire public, though copies are sent to the following: His Excellency, Lord Palatine Maric var Ruthern @GMRO His Highness, Grand Maer Otto August Barbanov @Mio His Grace, Lord Handler Ruslan Baruch @Sarmadonn The Honorable Alderman, Royal Inquisitor Anders Kortrevich @Crevel Va Birodeo Herzenav ag Edlervik, “I preface this letter by publicly apologizing for my recent conduct as Lord Speaker. Not because of the edicts that I have passed nor because of the powers I have executed, as they are well within my legal right and duty, but because of the lack of transparency I have shown in my recent years. I admit that I have not been the most impartial Speaker, though I have already explained why that is not a legal requirement. In any case, I apologize for my recent conduct. Furthermore, I have made an oath in front of the Duma, the Black Bulava, and His Majesty Heinrik II that I would fix my behavior and that I will be more transparent with the Duma in the future. Therefore, it is my sincere hope that The Lord Palatine, Grand Maer, Lord Handler, and Royal Inquisitor can all meet with me as I intend to draft a second edict. This edict will also be brought to the Royal Duma for debate, if the schedule allows for such, though the approval of this edict is solely His Majesties. I do this not as an act of any repentance, nor as an act to try and further the executive powers of the Office that I hold, but to ensure that the representation of the people are involved with this edict as much as possible.” Signed, His Excellency, The Lord Speaker, Igor Kort

The next day at work, Robert looks at Tatiana and says "New diet?"

Robert Ludovar knows he can't make it that day, so he prepares a gift to be sent to the bride and groom instead.

Recently Impeached but still in power Igor Kort prepares absences for any who refuses to wear the perfectly normal and good-looking sashes he commissioned!

NOMINATIONS FOR THE 374 ES GENERAL ELECTIONS KRUZAE ZWY KONGZEM 9th of Tov and Yermey, 374 ES DLUM VE EDLERVIK, DRUZ VE EDLERVIK VA BIRODEO HERZENAV E EDLERVIK, By the will of His Majesty, Koeng Heinrik Karl II, the elections of 374 ES shall be called to elect eight officials. Nominations shall now be open for the next month, and citizens of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska are called upon to fulfill their civic duty to vote. Eight of these officials shall be brought onto the Royal Duma, including a Grand Maer to manage and improve the institutions of the city of Karosgrad. These eight officials shall be elected under two offices, which are; ROYAL ALDERMEN Seven Royal Aldermen are elected as representatives of the whole people of Hanseti-Ruska, by popular vote. They are tasked with giving voice to their constituents within his Majesty’s Royal Duma by proposing and shaping legislative bills. Royal Aldermen may be of any birth, common or noble. Royal Aldermen are recommended to produce at least two bills during their four-year tenure. GRAND MAER The Grand Maer of Karosgrad is elected by majority vote to represent the people of Hanseti-Ruska in the Office of the Lord Seneschal and assume the duties of management of the city’s social institutions, assisting in growth of the city’s business and economy, and bringing city wide events to Karosgrad. This role is vital and important to the city, and its abilities depend on the office holder as well as their desires to shape the city to its betterment. The Grand Maer may be of any birth, and does not sit on His Majesty’s Royal Duma. For a citizen to nominate themselves for any of the above offices, they must satisfy the eligibility criteria: 1. Candidates must be at least fourteen years of age; 2. Candidates for Grand Maer must be a resident of Karosgrad; 3. Candidates for Royal Alderman must have a residence within Hanseti-Ruska; 4. Candidates must not have a criminal record; 5. Candidates must not be a titled peer or regent; 6. Candidates for Grand Maer cannot be a Laurir; 7. Candidates may only nominate themselves to run for one office; 8. Candidates cannot bribe potential voters, or otherwise purchase votes; 9. Candidates must not use any signs for their campaigning process on Private property (unless given consent of the owner) , and thus they are strictly prohibited to do so and will result in a fine. 10. Candidates may make public missives, speeches, and host rallies. In order for a nomination to be legitimate, the nominee must draft a public missive stating their clear intentions in office, goals, and any other information that they wish to make public. NOTE: You may still campaign while nominations are being verified ((OOC : CANDIDATES HAVE UNTIL TUESDAY 5 PM EST TO RUN)) CAMPAIGN POST TEMPLATE Please include the following in your application: IGN: Character Name: Age: Place of Residence / Street Address: Position: (Alderman or Maer) [Link to Campaign Post] IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Igor Kort, Lord Speaker of Hanseti-Ruska

[!] A letter was addressed to Fionn Castaway, sealed with the sigil of The Red Bull rather than the usual Speaker sigil. @FionnTWG "Dear Fionn, I hope you'd be glad to know that I actually did finish that edict you've been nagging me about. As expected, it's already picked up a bit of controversy from, guess who, Franz. As you know, I cannot say my opinion for your bid to run for the next election, but I do wish you the best of luck. Send me a souvenir from the swamps, da? I haven't been to the Attenlund properly since my youth. I do hope you've been treating that young bride of yours safe though. I didn't go through the trouble of trying to get you married for nie reason! Behave yourself, or else I'll restore ORDER myself. Until we meet again, Igor" [!] Along with the letter, there was another piece of parchment for Fionn to share if he'd like. It was a copy of the completed Winter Edict

"Month's, nie... years of my career have been put into this edict. It took longer than needed, and it has it's imperfections, but I finally have completed it. My defining moment, my finest moment..." comments the very tired Lord Speaker Igor Kort. At last, he has earned his day off..

Igor sweats as now the Pontiff knows all of his secrets...

Respect?: Gained Simp?: Not Under 6ft?: Yeah lmao

THE CELEBRATION OF OTISTADT [!] The celebration feast at Otistadt c. 372 ES The Comital House of Ludovar henceforth invites all citizens of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, and her allies, to the final celebration of the Lifstala, held at the County of Otistadt. The event will consist of the following activities that are truly worthy of ending this social season: Mini-Games - Citizens of all races and ages can participate in three mini-games with small prizes awarded to every winner. Games will include: - Dart Board Competitions - Drinking Contest - Arm Wrestling Tournament Grand Feast - What celebration is complete without a feast? Our very own personal chefs import only the most quality ingredients all across Haense. Whether it is wild salmon from Valwyck, wild boars from Astfield, or fresh milk from Krusev, our menu is only of the best quality. The varied menu includes: - Roasted & Stuffed Pheasant - Bull Steaks - Spit-roasted Wild Boar - Wild Ayryan Salmon - Chocolate Chip Cookies - Carrion Black - Fresh Sedanian Goats Milk - Erwin’s Scotch Final Ball - If you haven’t had the chance to get to know your potential partner, what better chance than a dance? Even if you do not have the skills like our late Dancing Koenas, it’s still a good opportunity for people to mingle if they are indeed single. Declarations - Finally, all those who have officially set up engagements or marriages may declare it to the public at the end of the celebration. This may be from including wedding details to simply informing everyone of the happy occasion. Truly a great way to end a celebration of love! Special Invitations are extended to: His Royal Majesty, Heinrik II, King of Haeseti-Ruska and the Royal Family His Grace, Ruslan Baruch, Duke of Valwyck, and his noble pedigree His Grace, Friedrich Barclay, Duke of Reinmar, and his noble pedigree The Most Honorable, Maric var Ruthern, Margrave of Greyspine, and his noble pedigree The Honorable, Britannus Vanir, Viscount of Varna, and his noble pedigree The Honorable, Jan Otto Kortrevich, Viscount of Krusev, and his noble pedigree The Honorable, Aldrik Baruch, Regent of Aurveldt, and his noble pedigree His Lordship, Stefan B. Vyronov II, Baron of Astfield, and his noble pedigree ((OOC: The feast will occur on Saturday, May 8th, 4 PM EST)) Signed, THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Kazimar Hieromar Ludovar, Count of Otistadt, Palatial Kommissar of Employment HIS LORDSHIP, Robert Aleksandr Ludovar

Igor Kort let out a disgusted scoff as he read the missive. He quickly had his clerk clean up his disorganized office of the crumpled up parchment and about thirty more crumpled up documents from different areas. "Hmf... By their logic they'd kill any toddler who knew how to pick up a dagger. The blatant disregard and lack of sympathy for the loss of children truly makes me question the faithful values of that 'Canonist' Emperor of theirs and their so-called canonist army. One this is for certain, they're obedient to the point where basic morals are forgotten!"

The stressed Lord Speaker Igor Kort would smile lightly at the missive, as he knew better than most that being impartial to both sides and staying true to morals was important. "I will say, we are doing pretty well in being the mediators in this conflict."

I said it before, and I'll say it again. I APPRECIATE YOU @livrose

Igor spat out his carrion as he read the missive "MY SLA- I MEAN HANDLER'S ACTUALLY GETTING MARRIED?!?!?!"

"Whoever decides to marry you, if they even consent, I wish them the best of luck... Whatever you do boys, just know that she stinks and sucks at dancing! But, I have to support Tattie since she's a friend I guess" says Robert Ludovar, the young menace of Otistadt.

Igor Kort plans to attend the Lifstala to avoid political controversy...

"Interesting observation, Otto! Though I think he means 'dog' as an insult. I doubt the Amador's can even afford a dog!" points out Mister Speaker Igorus Kortus @Mio

"Way to copy me in everything brother! First I get a government job, then you ward under the Palatine. Now you're getting a duel after I uhh... let the other side of my duel win!" grumbled a defeated Robert Ludovar "Whatever, just make sure you win for our Ludo-Pride!"

Igor prepares his clean and supreme white sash for the wedding as he also shines a suit of armor for some odd reason... Later on, he prepares a nice letter for the soon-to-be newly weds

An old knight sat with his family of Knights in the seven skies, smiling down as he watches Marie prepare for her trial. Ser Ivan The Red Bull hopes to see his granddaughter succeed. “This is niet the end, but only the start of your long journey. If you shall succeed, you are a worthy successor of my will. Good luck, myshka.”

NOMINATIONS FOR THE 370 ES GENERAL ELECTIONS KRUZAE ZWY KONGZEM 10th of Tov and Yermey, 370 ES DLUM VE EDLERVIK, DRUZ VE EDLERVIK VA BIRODEO HERZENAV E EDLERVIK, By the will of His Majesty, Koeng Heinrik Karl II, the elections of 370 ES shall be called to elect eight officials. Nominations shall now be open for the next month, and citizens of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska are called upon to fulfill their civic duty to vote. Eight of these officials shall be brought onto the Royal Duma, including a Grand Maer to manage and improve the institutions of the city of Karosgrad. These eight officials shall be elected under two offices, which are; ROYAL ALDERMEN Seven Royal Aldermen are elected as representatives of the whole people of Hanseti-Ruska, by popular vote. They are tasked with giving voice to their constituents within his Majesty’s Royal Duma by proposing and shaping legislative bills. Royal Aldermen may be of any birth, common or noble. Royal Aldermen are recommended to produce at least two bills during their four-year tenure. GRAND MAER The Grand Maer of Karosgrad is elected by majority vote to represent the people of Hanseti-Ruska in the Office of the Lord Seneschal and assume the duties of management of the city’s social institutions, assisting in growth of the city’s business and economy, and bringing city wide events to Karosgrad. This role is vital and important to the city, and its abilities depend on the office holder as well as their desires to shape the city to its betterment. The Grand Maer may be of any birth, and does not sit on His Majesty’s Royal Duma. For a citizen to nominate themselves for any of the above offices, they must satisfy the eligibility criteria: 1. Candidates must be at least fourteen years of age; 2. Candidates for Grand Maer must be a resident of Karosgrad; 3. Candidates for Royal Alderman must have a residence within Hanseti-Ruska; 4. Candidates must not have a criminal record; 5. Candidates must not be a titled peer; 6. Candidates for Grand Maer cannot be a Laurir; 7. Candidates may only nominate themselves to run for one office; 8. Candidates cannot bribe potential voters, or otherwise purchase votes; 9. Candidates must not use any signs for their campaigning process, and thus they are strictly prohibited and will result in a fine. 10. Candidates may make public missives, speeches, and host rallies. In order for a nomination to be legitimate, the nominee must draft a public missive stating their clear intentions in office, goals, and any other information that they wish to make public. ((OOC : CANDIDATES HAVE UNTIL TUESDAY 6 PM EST TO RUN)) Please include the following in your application: IGN: Character Name: Age: Place of Residence / Street Address: Position: (Alderman or Maer) [Link to Campaign Post] [Campain Post Guide] IV JOVEO MAAN, His Excellency, Igor Kort, Lord Speaker of Hanseti-Ruska

After a very long session of Duma, Igor drew a long sigh in his office later that afternoon. He finally uncrumpled the hearsay missive that was mysteriously passed around the entire Duma hall in the middle of the session. The already stressed Lord Speaker was not too pleased about this particular edition, especially when it came to his part. "It seems that being sick apparently means you are having an affair with a woman in Oren. It is true, I was invited in her home but that was to meet the other members of the honorable House of Halcourt. This hearsay is nothing more than just that, hearsay." Igor crumpled the parchment again, along with the hundreds of other papers around his office.

Igor prepares himself and his son for the grand birthday party of his #1 star student

Within his office in the North Wing of the Palace, The Lord Speaker continued to work restlessly against the advice of the Surgeon General. Despite the stress of countless death, the Royal Duma, and his duties as a father, Igor could not stop work, even if it meant another heart attack. However, his clerk did inform him of the passing of his former colleague and for a moment Igor paused his flow. Igor frowned deeply as he heard of the passing of yet another figure of his past. The once youthful and bright politician was now a stressed and graying man. After the clerk was dismissed from his office, Igor only thought of Marcella for a moment. He never knew her personally but her ambition and drive was something he admired. Both of them the same age, both worked to get into the Aulic Council, and both lived difficult lives. "Your ambition and drive is something all women, nie, all subjects of Haense should look up to. It's a shame that I never got to know you any better, but now you get to rest from your hardworking life, Lady Marcella" With that said, Igor returned to his paperwork. While one rests in the afterlife, the other seemed to be restless...