tadabug2000

[!] A missive would find itself in the mailboxes of all Lords, Ladies and Commoners in the realm. A STUDY INTO HAENSETI JEWELRY MEANINGS THROUGHOUT THE AGES: Amethyst and Pearls Issued by Lady Ofeliya of House Weiss Naf zwy 10th hag i Gronna ag Drova i 509 E.S. [A depiction of the young Lady Weiss and her studies.] Over the ages of our Kingdom, the courts under each Queen have drafted and published their missives. This study that I am writing looks into these published missives, and more specifically, the ones on Haenseti jewelry, its meaning and its restrictions throughout our class system. In studying this, I have found contradictions and parts that coincide alike but I am proud to say that a majority of it coincides, and builds upon the previous missive, even many years apart. With thanks to the Royal Courts Compendium, it has allowed me to gather much of my research material which will be tacked onto this for reference as to my work. To start with in my paper today, we look at two previously written missives, the earlier missive written under Her Royal Majesty, Queen Emma's reign, ‘Moda i ve Kort: Gemstones’. It touches on gemstones and their respective symbolism in the courts of Haense, speaking on varying jewels that have not been touched upon further in newer missives. What I am most interested in is the jewels that have been touched on since. Our first gemstone is the amethyst, in Her Majesty's missive, it speaks on it not being common within the nobility of Haense and instead being used more primarily by scholars and scientists as a symbol of their work and devotion to scholarly arts. Touching further upon this, it speaks of the stone being known for bringing clarity and wisdom alike. In the second missive, published under Her Royal Majesty, Queen Amaya's reign, ‘The Haeseni Birthstones’, it touches on the birthstones linked to the Haeseni Zodiacs and on their meanings. Once again, we see scholarly work upon the amethyst gemstone. There are aspects to this that coincide with the previously touched on missive, and contradict alike, showing how the viewing of jewels and gemstones in Haenseti life can change overtime. In this instance, as opposed to amethysts previously, it speaks of it being associated with nobility and royalty alike. Self-sacrifice and the willingness to do something for others at the cost of their own health is touched on quite heavily, but as add-on to the wisdom and knowledge spoken of in the previous missive. Pearls throughout the ages of our Kingdom have a history of contradictions, while in parts coinciding with previous missives but the one thing to stay the same throughout the passing of time is the importance of them. In Her Royal Majestys, Queen Emma's missive touched on previously, it seems to be the time in which the usage of pearls was most prevalent. It speaks on Haenseni freshwater pearls in particular, which were in abundance during that time and thus led to them being a staple in the courts. Men and women both added pearls to clothing and jewelry, and it speaks of how it is improper for a Lady to add them to her Kokoshnik. Adding further to the cultural value, one might note that widows were known to don pearls on their wrists or necks. In a second missive by Her Royal Majesty, Queen Emma, ‘Moda i ve Kort: Koenas Brooches’, it shows that continued staple of freshwater pearls and their use. The amount of pearls varied by the ranks, from a string of three pearls donned upon the Queens broach herself in the lower-left hand corner to lesser amounts of one such pearl upon a brooch. Most interesting is the positioning of the pearls holding their own meanings, if you are to look at the provided depictions, you will find that the Queen, and those of her councils brooches pearls all dangled from the lower left-hand corner as a means of identifying who is who. The amount of pearls and where the pearls sat showcased how high you sat upon Her Majesty's council. Should you have been honored with the Queen's commendation, though, it is on the opposite side entirely - the lower right-hand corner, just another aspect showcasing the importance of pearls in that time. What I find most fascinating is the contradiction in Her Royal Majesty, Queen Amaya's writings, though I have since come to believe that as this touches on oceanic pearls - the different pearl types have different meanings of their own. As opposed to freshwater pearls associated with the meaning of loss, the oceanic pearls take on the meaning of wisdom and serenity. It goes on to further speak on how the oceanic pearls compare to the offering of sacrifices by sailors seeking favor throughout history, going on to be treasured as symbols of protection and being blessed by the sea. In another missive, published by Her Royal Majesty, Queen Amadea, ‘Moda i ve Kort: Mourning’, it keeps with Queen Emma's missive that pearls are associated with mourning. A type of pearl is not mentioned in this, instead writing on pearls - presumably but not known for fact freshwater pearls, are the gem of death and class. They are seen as a relevant style of gem that can be worn during mourning, other than the Hussariyan or Lorraine cross or jewelry of the now deceased. The only difference in missives is that this touches not only on the widow being able to don pearls in mourning, but men and women alike, as they share similar mourning etiquette. --- In conclusion, I would like to thank my Mamej for looking this over when I was done and helping me with the bigger words used. I love you a ton! [!] Attached below are the missives in the order referred to. Moda i ve Kort: Gemstones The Haeseni Birthstones Moda i ve Kort: Koenas Brooches Moda i ve Kort: Mourning Signed, Her Ladyship, Ofeliya Fabienne Weiss

Sofia of Hyspia had soon learned the news of her dearly departed sister. She was the last of the four born to her parents, though she was sure her time would come soon enough. Amidst her grief of losing the only sibling she had come to love dearly, she buried herself in many a wine from her collection. The Dowager kept to her quarters, the only sounds being that of another bottle ordered to her.

The Lady Brasca thought of a conversation she had with Sir Baldwin not too long ago. It consisted of fields and crops, plans for the future and how the blood and matter of those lost will allow it to grow better then ever. Cold fingers clasped over a gift he'd given her after the last field battle, a bloodied spyglass. "Blood will litter w fields, Comrade."

Lady Brasca pre-orders many a Brascalite from a master craftsman, the bows beginning to pile up in preparation for the upcoming warclaim! All the while, she hums a certain song as she delivers a sum of minas to the craftsman. "And a quiver of barbed arrows for my little Brascalite.." The Baroness continued to hum it, line after line.

Lady Brasca could be heard humming a song as she went about her day, a now familiar tune in Veletz by the name of 'Little Brascalite'. A word now added to her vocabulary and a song to her repertoire!

The Lady Brasca had done something that was not within her nature upon conclusion of the battle, wrapping her arms over her comrade in a hug. A smile, one genuine and beaming had formed - and she soon sought out her brother-in-law as well. Her children had their own celebrations, but this was for the adults, as she gathered those and made way for the tavern. A toast was in store! Blood for Brasca has been had.

Lady Brasca celebrated within the tavern, providing drinks amidst toasts. "To Veletz! To Brasca!" Her cheer was met with those who sat with her, and a certain saying echoed about them. "Justice for Brasca!" The group enjoyed a myriad of drinks, amidst laughter, celebration and shared stories. A joyous smile, a strange sight for the Lady had formed. @TheHunter38 @The_Bad_Werty @moosehunter123 @Wretched Aidan

I pen this public missive after my children have been put to bed. Even now, I am sure they garner no sleep, as I hear their hushed and worried whispers of what shall happen next Saints day. Your leadership will tell you that you need worry not, the children and non-combatants will be elsewhere during the fight, but is it not your intentions to annex the entirety of Veletz? It is said my children, and others children can simply go elsewhere. But wherever shall they go? What shall be said next should those of you, of the Covenant, shall make it to the Capital? What words will be spewed, and what excuses to GOD be said as you cut down my children should they run out of places to go? What shall be said next if those of you who claim to be GOD-fearing render my children homeless? If I should fall, they will be orphaned. The next words that will spew forth that Veletz is Anathema, but if you look closely upon the Pontiffs bull, it is a specific few people. I am baptized, as are my children. We love GOD dearly. Other words I’d heard were the war is because Veletz houses the Ferrymen, but is it not a known fact that many a nation has done so in the past? If this truly were the only reason, the war would of stopped at Breakwater. And yet, there are more words, more excuses for the taking of homes and families. It is claimed that Veletz harbors the Undead. The very Undead who slaughtered my husband at a masquerade gone awry some years ago now. It was not Petra who helped I then, as I knelt before the blood stained floor of our keep. It was Veletz. It was Sir Gaspard van Aert, riding to my door with his men, asking how he can help. A promise was made to my husband before his untimely death, and a promise was kept. He took us in, in what was meant to be a temporary time, soon turned permanent. He offered us a home. Succor. Friendship. And it was not him alone. The soldiers, the people, the citizens. Every single one of them had been endlessly welcoming, providing a home that I have been honored to raise my children in. I’ve seven in total. My last count of children in Veletz overall numbers fifteen in total. I ask this of you, those who deign to read the public missive of a woman seeking a moral decision, What shall be said next? GOD WILLING, THE HONORABLE, Viktoria Helena af Brasca, Baroness of Brasca

Lady Brasca wonders what the Order of Deadmen would do should she request from them. Afterall, she wished Deadmund and his Deadmen themselves dead. If she traded a part of her soul, will the Deadmen self-destruct upon request? Of that, she doubted, and so instead she continued on her way in preparing her keep, and her family, against those who'd see them dead.

A certain Lady Brasca smirked in amusement as she overlooked the marching men. Her own bannermen prepared in turn, not ready to give up their home. "Ser Rassvet, moy must neit let moy own fall behind." @TheHunter38

The Baroness of Brasca, donned in mourning blacks after the death of her husband. The widow peered upon her recently finished home. Thirty-seven years of age, married all of two years and in war for a majority of the time she’d been alive. Her first memory was of running about the refugee camps at the edges of Aaun with her eldest brother, Istvan. They chased after a Goat, intent on capturing the animal. And then her next primary memory was the end of the world as she knew it, and she and her family traded one refugee camp for another; Savoy. Brutality. Grief. Horror. It all became a never-ending cycle in the Ivanovich life. The next place she’d come to be with her family is Aaun, building up their community of Raevirs in the Duchy of Stran. She was warded off in what felt like a moment, and then she was moving again, this time to Whitespire in which she lived in their palace and wondered what her family was doing now. And then another move. This one her choice. She’d come to fall in love with a man, his heart large, his smile jovial. George Marc af Brasca. They’d met through letter and familial connection initially, letters that have faded with how many times she has read them over, clutched close in hand. He’d eventually come to ask to court her, and was given three trials and three trials he did. And so she married him, bore four beautiful children and fostered three more. And then he was dead just like that, cruelly taken by the machinations of Deadmunds deadmen. The very next day, a light shown in the form of a man she’d only spoken to once or twice before then. Sir Gaspard van Aert, Captain-General of Veletz. He came with his men, riding into her late husbands lands, and speaking of a promise he made to her now late husband. He will protect Viktoria, and their children in the event of an untimely death. So they left, packing what little they could carry upon their back. Only later would she hear that Petra heard of the happenings, believing the harried widow to have been kidnapped and thus opted to do nothing upon this belief. Their visit was meant to be temporary, until it wasn’t. Veletz provided a home, one welcoming to both her and her children - it provided safety, happiness, something more that she’d never thought to seek out. Some years passed, and her smiles grew more frequent, watching her children grow and begin to come into their own. And then war came again. One she wished not for her children to see. A siege. And now another. Those of the Covenant sought to take the newly gotten home from a widow and her seven children. And thus the widow, with a heart aching in sorrow and pain, broke her promise. One promised to her mother so many years ago. One to never pick up a blade, nor a weapon. And a sword rose, sharp and weighing heavy in her hands. “For vy, y dzieckos, y will fight.”

Mariposa Aganza was terribly worried that entire Saints day. Her dear friend had left for the battle of Breakwater, and survived, and then news of his capture came and she couldn't bring herself to eat. The woman knelt before her prayer candles, but could find no words as she thought of what may be happening to her dear childhood friend. Will she ever have the courage to tell him she loves him?

THE HIRING OF MARCEVNA Issued by The Baroness of Brasca With the recent construction of the Keep of Marcevna coming to a finish upon the lands of Brasca, employment opportunities are being offered to the people of Winburgh and to those willing to embark on a new journey to join our noble household. Our employment opportunities come complete with a modest salary, alongside room and board. Listed below are the positions the household is seeking to fulfill, and what all it may entail: The Hostler of Marcevna The Hostler's position consists of the managing of the Marcevna stables and pens. This consists of the feeding and caretaking of animals, assuring they get the best of care and the Keep stays well-supplied in animal goods. Maids and Butlery The positions of maids and butlery alike are a more general role within the Keep. Their work consists of serving guests, alongside assuring the cleanliness and day to day maintenance of the keep. If you find yourself with interest as to these positions, you may send a bird via aviary to schedule an interview with the Baroness Viktoria af Brasca. Signed, The Honorable, Viktoria Helena af Brasca, Baroness of Brasca, Castellan of the Courts of Winburgh

THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE KEEP OF MARCEVNA Issued by The Baroness of Brasca There has been 744 dead in the construction of the Keep of Marcevna and 153 injured. With great joy and pride, we announce the completion of the Marcevna Keep, named after the late Baron George Marc af Brasca as a symbol of strength and unity within that of Veletz. The final stone has been laid, and the crimson and obsidian banners now proudly dance in the wind, declaring the fortress's readiness to stand tall in the annals of our noble history. We express our gratitude for the dedicated workers who contributed to the creation of our new home. In honor of remembering those lost during the process, a vigil has been organized to honor their memory and acknowledge the challenges faced. May the vigil offer solace and a sense of togetherness during these difficult times. Signed, The Honorable, Viktoria Helena af Brasca, Baroness of Brasca, Castellan of the Courts of Winburgh

Ofeliya Weiss awoke in bed, chilled, gasping and hardly able to breathe. She'd have rushed to her sisters own bed, climbing in, whether there was complaints or not - and cling desperately to her as she had a nightmare . . . @Frostdrop1

Once the Lady Ivanovich and now the Baroness of Brasca, Viktoria held a match over a previously unlit wick of a candle. It flickered, casting shadows over her features as her palms then clasped over her cross, veiled head bowing forth. A prayer, one in silence is murmured and the woman did not leave her place that night, standing stout as she prayed for her elder brother and her nephews soul in the Seven Skies.

THE COURTS OF WINBURGH; STARTED ANEW FOEDUS VELEC In the year 18 of the Age of Rights and the Age of Reckoning “Elegance is not a dispensable luxury but a factor that decides between success and failure.” ✠ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ BY THE UNWAVERING AUTHORITY OF THE STATE AND THE REPUBLICAN MANDATE BESTOWED UPON THE ILLUSTRIOUS CHAMBER OF HEIDMEN, WE HEREBY ISSUE THIS IMPERIOUS MISSIVE, RESONATING WITH THE EMINENT VIRTUES OF HONOR, DUTY, LIBERTY, FRATERNITY, VALOR, AND WISDOM. WITH THIS COMMUNICATION, WE ENLIGHTEN THY READER UPON THE INTRICACIES OF STATECRAFT AND UNVEIL THE CURRENT AFFAIRS THAT ENGAGE OUR SOVEREIGN REALM. ____________________________________________________________________________________________ LO unto the Heartlands, With great pride and esteemed anticipation, we herald a new beginning in the halls of our cherished castle, formerly known as the Courts of St. Emalyne under the rule of the Duchy of Adria. Today, it is with a deep sense of purpose that we announce the naming of our courts - the Courts of Winburgh. This name befits not only the land of Veletz but its noble people. Under this new name, our courts come under a new jurisdiction, brimming with roles that fit the stature of our homeland. It is our profound hope to see the Courts of Winburgh flourish under this banner of change and renewal. To this end, we invite the denizens of Veletz to fill these key positions as we usher in an age of prosperity and cultural distinction. ________________ The Castellan of the Courts The overseer of our beloved castle, overseeing all its daily affairs. They are tasked with coordinating the castle staff, ensuring harmony within the courts, and nurturing the cultural heritage of Veletz, from etiquette to scholarly works and grand celebrations. The Chaplain of the Courts The Court Chaplain is charged with the sanctity of faith within our beloved courts. Their duties align themselves with the responsibility of baptisms, hosting courtly masses, and providing ecclesiastical guidance as needed to the nobility of the League. The Almoner of the Courts The custodian of courtly meals and alms, the Almoner is charged with overseeing kitchen preparations and serving staff. In a broader sense, they too provide for the townsfolk, collaborating closely with the Court Chaplain in the providing of alms for the ill and poor, as well as organizing the foodstuffs given out from the castle on feast days. The Keeper of the Hounds The Keeper of the Hounds is a position as old as the House van Aert itself; first held by the de Vilains, later breakers of Oren, the position of organizing hunts, caring for the Ducal family’s bloodhounds and maintaining the balance of Veletz’s wildlife has long held a special place in the League’s courts. The Chamberlain of the Courts The Court Chamberlain is the curator of Veletzian fashion and culture, tasked with researching and promoting the rich history of Veletzian attire and cultural heritage. ________________ Deputies of the Castle The Castle Deputies are appointed on a case-by-case basis to assist the courtly council in its myriad tasks, ranging from missive drafting to meeting arrangements, and timely deliveries to acting as hosts. Wards of the Castle A Ward of the castle is a promising individual under the age of eighteen, seeking to learn and grow within the courts. Often chosen from the pastoral nobility, they are assigned to a council member and given tasks to build experience, with the promise of a formal position upon coming of age. Servantry of the Castle A diverse group of individuals including hostlers, maids, and gardeners, dedicated to maintaining the castle’s cleanliness and upkeep, and tending to its needs with diligence. In this new chapter of the Courts of Winburgh, we look forward to welcoming those who wish to be part of our vibrant and evolving community. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ GOD WILLING, HIS GRACE, Gaspard of the House van Aert, Captain-General of the League of Veletz, Duke of Middelan, Bannerlord of Velec, Protector of the Midlanders THE HONORABLE, Viktoria Helena af Brasca, Baroness of Brasca, Lady Castellan to the Courts of Winburgh

Mariposa Aganza looks to her hearty lunch she'd prepared for later today, sitting innocently upon the counter and wonders in horror if someone will point weapons at her for eating it..

THE FIFTH NAMEDAY OF CRESSIDA AF BRASCA Issued by The Baronial Household af Brasca On the 17th year of the Age of Rights and Age of Reckoning. It is with immense joy and pride that we, the Baronial Household af Brasca, extend our most cordial invitation in joining us in celebrating the fifth nameday of our youngest daughter, Cressida Natasya af Brasca. As she has grown, she has begun to embody the finest qualities one would wish to see in a young lady of their household. To honor this special occasion, we have chosen a theme that holds a special place in Cressida's heart - Blossoming Gardens. We welcome all who appreciate the splendor of Veletz's gardens and the wonders of nature to partake in this celebration. The Festivities The festivities will commence within the city of Winburghs castle situated within Veletz. Here, our young lady will be introduced to those in attendance. Following the introductions, a series of activities await, including a communal effort to plant gardens, a session of molding soap into intricate shapes, musical chairs and a simple game of ‘Pin the Petal onto the Rose.’ A City-Wide Scavenger Hunt After the games, an exciting city-wide scavenger hunt will unfold. Participants shall be urged to explore the city in search of hidden chests. The one who uncovers them all first will be crowned the victor! As the scavenger hunt concludes, we invite you to present gifts to the birthday girl. Consider items with pleasant scents, floral themes, or perhaps books on herbs and gardening, in homage to her love for nature and the gardens. [Friday, Nov 10th, 5pm EST/10pm GMT] Signed, The Honorable, Viktoria Helena af Brasca, Baroness of Brasca Her Ladyship, Cressida Natasya af Brasca

THE FIFTH NAMEDAY OF THE BRASCAN TWINS Issued by The Baronial Household af Brasca On the 16th year of the Age of Rights and Age of Reckoning. It is with immense joy and pride that we, the Baronial Household af Brasca, invite you to join us in celebrating the fifth nameday of our beloved twins, Jan Gaspard af Brasca and Andrik Pierre af Brasca. As they have grown, they've begun to embody the finest qualities of both their parents, exemplifying their mother's wit and their father's unwavering commitment to honor and chivalry. To mark this momentous occasion, we've chosen a theme close to our hearts - the Knights of Aevos. We invite knights and noble souls from near and far to make themselves known at this event based on chivalry and honor. Fun and Games The celebrations will commence at the Winburgh castle in Veletz, where the young lords will be introduced to those in attendance. Following the introductions, a series of lively games will ensue, including familiar favorites such as Pin the Dagger on the Spookman, musical chairs, hide and seek, and a surprise game made by the Baronial Household for this very occasion. A Celebratory Tournament After the games, a tournament will unfold within the Veletzian tourney grounds. The participants will engage in duels, vying for victory in a single-elimination style. The individual who emerges victorious will be granted a substantial prize of 150 minas! Upon the closure of the tournament, we encourage you to present gifts to the birthday boys. Consider items such as those used by a Page or Squire, books on the art of war, chivalry, and honor, or hats to put upon the head! [Saturday, Nov 4th, 5pm EST/9pm GMT] Signed, The Honorable, Viktoria Helena af Brasca, Baroness of Brasca His Lordship, Jan Gaspard af Brasca His Lordship, Andrik Pierre af Brasca

Mariposa Aganza looked to her two friends with an eager grin, standing by the crackling flames of the fire pit of the square. "I'll make something to celebrate!' She exclaimed to the two soldiers. @Javert@Rebellionlife

The Queen-Dowager, Sofia of Hyspia, took in the personal invitation as is drafted by her niece. She thought of Lucias late mother, Amity, a woman who had been her dearest friend in childhood only to grow apart in their later years. A Lorraine, one made by her own mother many years prior dangled delicately against her throat in which she signed over it. And then she marked the date for the wedding!

IGN: tadabug2000RP Name: Mariposa Perla Valiente AganzaID: #65327

Hmmm, 3 weeks to a month sounds more reasonable - cause while it is nomad stuff, if you're thinking of the mechanical setup, and the costs, etc, 3-4 weeks is more reasonable on an OOC level This looks really cool otherwise, Jav! Though, it seems a bit strange to like, have the same war costs as a nation but I also get where you're coming from there

Sofia of Hyspia marked the date of her nieces big day! How she loves Hyspia!