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Now that it's always night, buck doesn't quite know when to sneak into your house anymore. It gets slingshotted at you in a crumpled ball from the roofs.

Buck news has been nailed to the ceiling over your head, so you can read it as soon as you open your eyes in the morning! How convenient(?)

This buck news has been just tossed at your doorstep. Buck just doesn’t seem to be in the mood tonight.

You wake up this morning.. no sign of buck news. you check your pantry, all of your food is there. No more holes in your window, all of your possessions intact. Not even a single smidge of mud tracked on your floor. You breath a sigh of relief, opening your closet for you morning coat when 50 MORE COPIES OF BUCK NEWS SPILL OUT ALL OVER YOU AND THE FLOOR

a crinkled up “news” paper as been thrown at your door

Scribed in remembrance of those fallen in the defensive effort against the Scyfling forces. Geast I Ve Fitsker As the smoke clears and the casualties are counted, a lone fighter hangs high in the sky. His comrades gather their wounded and rest their lost, trekking along a beaten path to their home of New Reza. As they venture through the lush and lively Haeseni countryside the fighter follows along, shortly behind his brothers as they return to the walls of the city. The fighter hangs his head as he knows his time is up and he no longer can walk with his men, with one final look over New Reza he nods and makes his leave. The fighter retreats over the sky scraping Steel Hills and into the dense and quiet Wick Wood. He is at peace with what has come of him and knows it was for the better of his country and people. As the fighter slowly closes his eyes looking over the land he called home, one final thought fled his mind and escaped his lips in a soft mutter “Krusae Zwy Kongzem”. With this he was ready, his soul being claimed and returned to the Seven Skies. But behind he left, a single mortal possession. One he could not take with him and was forced to leave behind. Sojoernaal I Ve Fitsker The shouting begins and the screaming is heard, as the Haeseni holds their ground strong and true. A flood of Scyfling scum rushing out towards the stout walls of the Fort at Metterden, this would be the true test of strength. Javelin quickly flew overhead, shattering shields of the Crows one by one, sending ballista fire back in response. Their motive to take this land remains unclear to most, but this will not stop the men of gold and black as we fight until our last breath, and in response “Krause Zwy Kongzem” we shout until our voice cannot be heard any longer. We fight for the spirit of Haense and the protection of our heritage, this land gifted to us by Godani and protected by the soldiers of those who inherited it. It was not long though until the Scyfling horde began creeping in on the ravine that held our brave cavalrymen. They through everything at us, but we prevailed even lost in a daze of confusion and pain simply because the fight was not over. As javelin continued to fly towards the proud Haeseni men, we gave a constant fight back until the moment we break. Our men falling one by one and there was no telling how this would end, so what could we do but fight. My life before theres, I will not not this kingdom fall under some barbarian claiming this is his land. Bralt I pity you, thinking we will fall so easily. So hear this in fear “Krusae Zwy Kongzem”. Ser Siegmund Wick

Geast I Ve Fitsker As the smoke clears and the casualties are counted, a lone fighter hangs high in the sky. His comrades gather their wounded and rest their lost, trekking along a beaten path to their home of New Reza. As they venture through the lush and lively Haeseni countryside the fighter follows along, shortly behind his brothers as they return to the walls of the city. The fighter hangs his head as he knows his time is up and he no longer can walk with his men, with one final look over New Reza he nods and makes his leave. The fighter retreats over the sky scraping Steel Hills and into the dense and quiet Wick Wood. He is at peace with what has come of him and knows it was for the better of his country and people. As the fighter slowly closes his eyes looking over the land he called home, one final thought fled his mind and escaped his lips in a soft mutter “Krusae zwy Kongzem”. With this he was ready, his soul being claimed and returned to the Seven Skies. Ser Siegmund Wick

THE CREATION MYTHOS ~ ᛞᚨ ᚴᛁᚱᚴᛃᚨ ᛞᚡᛖᚱᚷᚨ ~ -=- Book One: The Forging of Reality When being had not yet become and the only existence was Vuur’dor and the primordial forces within it, there was no purpose, there was no design. There was only chaos. But sound through the dark expanses of Vuur’dor was a boom, the fall of a hammer. With each hammer’s strike did the primordial forces, once chaotic, bend into shape and were given the design that only a Creator could give. YEMEKAR, lord of creation, used his infinite might and power to shape reality. As he demonstrated this strength, so did KHORVAD, god of power, come into being. He was tied to the reality YEMEKAR had made, a reflection of YEMEKAR’s ability to create. YEMEKAR however was not satisfied with such a creation, and set out to decorate reality so that it could serve as the canvas for a far greater work; YEMEKAR would make a being like himself. YEMEKAR knew that in order to make a being like him, he must make for them a home. The forge-father took his hammer and hit the world, shaping it into mountains and valleys, hills and dells. He took his chisel, and with it shaped caves and forests into his creation. Lastly, he held his creation in the fires of his soul forge, and the heat of the forge would become the warmth of the hearth, bringing life and comfort to the forests and caves. As life became so did ANBELLA, the Hearth Mother. She would look over the hearth and extend the grace of it to those who earn her blessing. The sparks and embers of the soul-forge’s fire burned into YEMEKAR’s world, seeping deep within the rock. They became the gemstones and valuable ores, materials that YEMEKAR’s children may use in their crafts to make great works in his name. Sparks and embers that flew into the air became the stars, bright and powerful gemstones in the sky. As the treasures were deposited in the deep darkness, became GRIMDUGAN, Lord of Greed, who would guide the children of YEMEKAR in their search for objects of great beauty and hoarding their wealth. YEMEKAR reached into the soul-forge with his tongs and took out a large ember. He set it in the sky above his creation, and it burned brilliantly and brightly until it was golden. It was similar to the other stars in the sky as it had great value, but unlike the others, it was meant to be exchanged, not hoarded or used in crafts. It was the first coin, and by its beaming light YEMEKAR’s children would be able to exchange their crafts and skills, and its rays became trade and bartering. And became ARMAKAK, the Merchant Father. He would guide the mouths of the tradesmen so a favorable deal is made and prosperity reaches all. YEMEKAR took his creation, hot from the fires of the soul forge, and doused it. The waters poured into the world and filled the deepest and widest valleys, creating the seas and rivers, some waters cooling into steam and forming the clouds. The speed and excitement of the coursing rivers and rushing winds became the feelings and emotions of the world and became BELKA, Lady of Passion. She would guide the hearts of the world to mercy and would inspire divine passion into people who earn her blessing. YEMEKAR’s creation, now becoming more ornate and detailed than ever, was carried to his workbench. There the soulmason placed his chisel on his creation and carved into his creation names of what he had made in his sacred language. These symbols and names, known as runes, carried great power in them. As the runes were carved into creation, so did become wisdom and scholarship, and became OGRADHAD, Lore Master. He would guide those who dedicated time to discovering his vast knowledge in their research and extend his blessing of divine wisdom to those with the temperance and humility to earn it. His forging near-complete, YEMEKAR took a smooth stone from his workbench, and with his tongs deposited it deep in the fires of the Soul Forge. It burned bright and hot in the Soul Forge for a millennium, until he took it out. It was so burning hot that it was pale and glowed faintly. He took the stone and placed it on his workbench, carving a rune into it, naming it. It became Khaz’a’dentrumm, and it would serve as the home of the gods that had been made, as well as the resting place of his children once they were done crafting on the world he made them. Thus became death, and its patron DUNGRIMM, Lord of the Dead. He would guide those children of YEMEKAR who perished to the next life in Khaz’a’dentrumm, and give his blessing to those who would risk death for the sake of honor. -=- Book Two: The Shaping of Souls YEMEKAR looked at his creation, beautiful in its design and perfect balance. He saw that it was time to begin a far more complex project. YEMEKAR placed the world again on his Ruhn-Anvil, ready to create the first souls, the rest of the Brathmordakin at his side. He was going to make a being like him, and thus the Forge-Father set to work. For his first attempt, YEMEKAR decided to forge a being with great power and might. He reached into the fire of a volcano and bent it into form, and it became Krug. Krug was mighty, having a strong determined will, however he did not use it as YEMEKAR did to shape and craft, but he used his strength for violence. Krug saw the world as a challenge, and everything was just his next opponent. And thus the blood of the orkos would forever flow with destruction. YEMEKAR saw the destructive nature of Krug and knew that he would have to instill an intense loyalty and love for the world into his creation. He reached into an ancient forest of trees towering into the sky, and grabbed the gentle breeze, shaping it into form, and it became Malin. Malin was curious, his obsession and love for the world around him would guide him not to hurt a fly, and he would tend to the forests rather than destroy them as Krug had. However he was not by his deep love of the world inspired to create as YEMEKAR had, but instead he would only keep and study what was already made. Malin saw the world as a perfect garden, obsessed with maintaining it; he would never dare use the resources YEMEKAR had gifted him to make something new. And thus the blood of the elgus would forever flow with preservation. Looking at the powerful and bloodthirsty orkos and the passive elgus, YEMEKAR then sought to make a soul that was not prone towards anything, one that would be shapeable and could be formed into anything. The Soulmason looked to the rolling hills and reached into the rivers coursing between them, and from its bank he drew out clay, folding it into form, and it became Horen. Horen was simple, he did not have a great passion for anything, yet was able to do many things, a jack of all trades. However Horen did not with his variety of skills use them to create great works as YEMEKAR had, but instead to further his own interests. Horen became obsessed with himself, and saw the world as his to exploit. And thus the blood of the umros would forever flow with simplicity and selfishness. YEMEKAR gazed upon the three persons made so far, and felt that none lived up to his expectations. He laid his sight on a mighty mountain, with a teeming forest and deep cavern below it, and pulled from its heart a shining jewel. It was ornate and sturdy, and YEMEKAR then forged it into form, and it became Urguan. Urguan was inspired by the beauty of YEMEKAR’s creation not to destroy, preserve or further himself, but instead to create. He took the resources available to him and shaped the world into great works. He saw the world as a canvas, just as YEMEKAR had. And thus the blood of the dwedmar would forever flow with creation. YEMEKAR knew he had finally made the perfect being, one like him. He looked back to the misshapen souls, imperfect and corrupt in their design. However, despite their failings, YEMEKAR in his infinite love for his creation could not bear to destroy what he had made, even if imperfect. Having made his perfect creation and letting live the three failures, the yrrommar, YEMEKAR retreated back to his halls in Khaz’a’dentrumm, the rest of the gods joining him and becoming the Brathmordakin, and they rejoiced as creation was complete. -=-

Shidoism As interpreted by Tianrui Ren The philosophy of Shidoism rests in the idea of doing one’s best to be morally good and achieve true inner peace through mindfulness. To be good to one another and free of suffering. The Five Remembrances I am of the nature to grow old. There is no way to escape growing old. I am of the nature to have ill health. There is no way to escape ill health. I am of the nature to die. There is no way to escape death. All that is dear to me and everyone I love are the nature to change. There is no way to escape being separated from them. My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground upon which I stand. Author’s note: If one looks at the remembrances only as ominous warnings, they will only serve to create more suffering. We must separate ourselves from fear, and be mindful of the nature of our actions. Practice and Ritual Meditation is an integral part of Shidoist practice as a method of mindfulness and centering oneself. Though, contrary to what many may think- meditation is not limited to sitting meditation. There is meditation in walking, in doing chores, in listening to the rain. So long as you are present and focusing only on the present, that is meditation. The ringing of the bell is a way we can center ourselves, breathing in, and out. It brings us to the present. We can feel the air fill our lungs, bringing in life and good energy. And when we exhale, we expel the negativity and tired energy. Mindfulness is also important when we eat, knowing that we are consuming life to sustain ourselves. We thank the lives that are given so that we may continue, and eat mindfully. One day we will return to the earth to give our energy in turn. We must be slow to force, and only use violence as an absolute last resort. In culminating a world without suffering, we must strive to seek to understand one another the best we can. OOC Resources Shaseki-Shu (“Collection of Stone and Sand”) ZEN FLESH, ZEN BONES Plum Village App Plum Village: Zen Guided Meditation App For further questions or additions to the document, message Coffee.exe [BOT]#5456 on Discord or Moo_bot on the forums. This is intended to be a lore-friendly addition to Li-Ren and general Eastern culture on LOTC.

[If you're interested in playing an eastern character, and would like to help set up a settlement, please send me a message.] Other Relevant Resources: [Note: There are various interchangeable terms whose usage varies between texts, i.e. a foreigner may use 'Distor', whilst a Shí loyalist may use 'Shíguó'. This is to emphasis the writer's perspective as well as the 'intended audience'. Distor is heavily influenced by Middle China, between the Qin and Han dynasties (considered the founding dynasties of China). Some documents may be considered outdated and contain information that may be perceived as being questionable. This is to ensure that these documents are not too rigid, for other contributors.] Distorian and Eastern Culture A Brief History of Distor, by Oū Ruònéng Tàishǐ, 1187 Wǔyuán - The Five Principles, Qiū Chóngyáng Sēng, 1203 Etymology of Distor, Erictheus Taitale, 1437 The Book of Shí I - Fashion and Culture, Yíng Zhēng, 1569 [If you wish to have a document added to this list, please message me a link, all contributions to the Eastern culture are welcome. Thank you.]

History Birth of the Seas With the birth of seafaring ships, there came a new class of people. Men were no longer bound to the social classes that nations had followed, for the seas were now a freedom gifted unto the men who dared to face the treacherous bodies of water. Many men found themselves seeking out the freedoms of life at sea. Massive ships were being constructed to fulfill the ambitions of men who dared to face the open seas. The creation of these ships would lead to the discovery of many fortunes that would go beyond the commoner’s grasp of reality. However, fortunes such as these hardly ever come without a hefty price. The possibility of untold riches and fame tends to create a highly insatiable greed for man’s dreams to come true. The first men to steal from others on the seas were the bandits, but as soon as word got out of how great battles at sea led to pure profit for the victor, even the commoners chose to toss their lot to the seas. The romantic idea of being self-led, living a self-determined life with a crew to back you led to these kinds of ideas being ingrained in the minds of the soon to be pirates. People who thought they deserved what others have led to the very creation of early pirates. Pirates are the bandits of the seas, believing THEY should have the glorious fortunes of the seas, as well as the fortunes of others. Shortly after seafaring began, the greatest enemy of the seas became the seafarers themselves. Rise of the Seas There were Twelve ambitious men; the first admirals: a highlander, two heartlanders, four elves, two dwarves, an orc, a farfolk, and an easterner. Each man ambitiously sought to become the greatest scourge of the seas. They amassed fleets that shook the very waters they laid claim over. Each Admiral held a portion of the seas under their command as they settled their territories. The first few years consisted of skirmishes and small scale battles, as the admirals tested their fleets against each other. However, the fleets seemed to be of equal match with very few admirals being capable of claiming more territory from the others. The Great Ocean War An empire of old found the seas as part of their claim. Seeing the ambitious pirate fleets as an act of terror upon their lands, they birthed a great navy, which would black out the distant horizon with its imperial ships. It has been said that even the most vile and brutal men trembled before the sight of these ships scouring the waters. Pirate captains of unaffiliated ships were the first to face the full brunt of the navy. The navy slaughtered anyone who dared enter the newly claimed imperial waters. The reaches of the imperial navy started to spread into the territories claimed by the Pelagian fleets. The first battle was settled between the farlander fleet; they rallied forty ships to their cause. At daybreak, the imperial fleet arrived with twice the amount of ships, each manned with imperial loyalists. They fought like feral dogs, leaving no man quarter. The imperials had declared any ship that refuses to fly under imperial colors must be given no quarter. The brave fleet admiral was the first to sally forth, leading the charge against the imperials. The sounds of cracking wood and dying men lasted for ten hours as the Pelagian men refused to lay in wait for their deaths. Stories and songs were later made, signifying the ferocity and will of a Pelagian Sailor. The Council is Born The war waged on as the imperials slowly stripped the Pelagian fleets of their territories. They were pushed back into the darkest corners of the seas, retaining singular coves just large enough to hold their fleets. Desperate fleets with dwindling numbers sought out other fleets to form alliances with, causing factions of Pelagians to form. The first to call all the factions together was Robert Fletch of the Adrolan Fleet. The heartlander contacted the eleven other Pelagian admirals to a meeting on open waters. The meeting was set on a crisp and low wind morning. The boats arrived with an uneasiness unlike any other, the Admirals halted and hoisted their sails as they waited for someone to make the first move. Rothland Malone of the Red Fleet and Takehiko Jun’ichi of the Black Sun Fleet were the first to throw hooks against each other and form a pathway to each other's ships. The two leaders have had past dealings with each other, allowing them to become examples to the other fleet admirals to follow their steps. It took around ten minutes before the chain reaction began to set, allowing the first meeting to be successfully held. Robert Fletch led the talks as they argued about the current status of the empire pushing upon all the fleet's territory. Six hours of arguing had passed to no avail, for the admirals couldn’t trust each other. The idea of a united fleet seemed to be more grim as time passed. So, Robert Fletch used the only thing that these men would follow. A Gold Coin, he engraved his name upon the gilded coin as a sign to the gods. Bounding his soul to the coin, he handed it over to the Admiral beside him. Seeing his trust, the others eventually followed suit. Each held a coin of another fleet, giving them enough leverage over each other to face the imperial fleet as one. The Retaliation On a windy morning, the united Pelagian fleets sailed forth to the Imperial waters. They hoisted red flags, chanting sea shanties as they crossed the waters. Then, the twelfth hour struck, and the two massive fleets met each other on the open seas. Nearly three hundred ships on either side had been rallied for this day. Any sane man would feel the tension at the sight before them, but something came over the Pelagians. Something... inhuman. They continued to sing as they sailed onto their early graves. Fearing nothing, they clashed with the imperials, fire and ballista bolts blinded the men as they fought. The haze filled with wooden shrapnel covered their eyes as they crossed boarding bridges. It was pure hell - hell that lasted fourteen hours, only to leave the waters soaked in blood and covered in the remains of once-great ships. The remaining Pelagian ships could only offer a solemn cheer for their close victory as they sailed away. The Fall of the Six The returning shell of a fleet held its second meeting to determine how they would divide the reclaimed territory. Unfortunately, all greedy men want more than what they are owed. Six of the Admirals including the Malones and Jun’ichi’s organized a plan to kill the other captains and take their coins back. On a cold crisp night, the six Admirals gathered to the meeting hall with the others. At first, the meeting seemed normal and went smoothly, until the first man struck out. Each Admiral turned to the man on their right side and proceeded to stab them in the back with their blades. They tossed the coins of the dead admirals off the side of the ship, which they would come to regret later. It has been said that a curse was set that day, that the betrayed returned as the damned; that they would take up arms in revenge, as the pact was broken. Haunted by their misdeeds, the remaining admirals swore to never again break the pact. The New Order Shortly after the event of killing the six other admirals, they divided their territories between each other. The men claimed themselves as the first Pirate Lords of the seas, setting a meeting time every fifty years to discuss the nature of the seas. It is said that men and their descendants are still haunted to this day by the men they betrayed. Superstitions and Religion Afterlife The afterlife generally thought to house the dead Pelagians, is that of a large island, with taverns and drinks plentiful. The Pelagian never starving, or thirsting. The water around the island is always calm and easy. The winds are never brash or harmful. The Coin Pelagians who join a crew are given a coin specifically designed by that crew. It’s a marker of who they are with essentially. They engrave their initials into the coin, thus sealing their soul onto the coin. This act seals the sailor’s fate for a life on the seas, but there’s a sense of severity as it’s considered that the coin holds the soul. Captains are given their crew members coins to resemble a pact of trust and loyalty to the crew. It’s the captain's duty to bury their dead with their coin, otherwise they’re considered to be sent to the damned to seek revenge and their coin. Coinless are seen as soulless beings on the sea, to whom many Pelagians either pity or feel disgust towards. Coins have also been seen being used as currency for a life. Each coin is worth one soul of a new pelagian, so some captains respect it as payment for certain jobs. The Six Patrons It is said that the admirals that were betrayed became the Six patrons of the seas, as they lacked their coins to move on. This left many Pelagians scared of the consequences of breaking the oaths of the coin. It’s said that these patrons watch over Pelagians and punish the ones that break the customs and rules. Patron of the Damned An Orc Admiral by the name of Xurrukk the Red was the first to fall. He was the only Orc Admiral in the Pelagian Fleets, and was the most feared of all. It has been said that his men could fight long after being “killed”, brutally fighting without fear. After his betrayal, a rumor had been spread around of a ship of undead scouring the seas, hunting those who betrayed other Pelagians and himself. Those who are betrayed during a pirate lord meeting or lose their coin are sent to the fleet of the damned to serve in it. Many Pelagians fear the tales of running into the ships of the damned, and naming ships after them is considered taboo. Patron of Wind The Fastest Admiral of the seas was an Elven man by the name of Kyraatar the Cutter. He was well known for his speeds and luck with wind, or what most thought was luck. He tracked the winds and used them to his advantage. Ironically, he was killed by pure luck of the draw, as he held a coin of one of the betrayers. Sailmasters tend to look towards his example, and often call upon his name for wind. Patron of the Waves Ragnik the small was the first dwarven admiral to make his name upon the oceans. Many called him small, but never neglected his strength and skill to survive the storms. He was known to sail through storms without fear and always coming out on top. Unfortunately, his skill with sea storms didn’t save him from the storm of betrayal. Many Pelagians call out his name for guidance through storms. Patron of Death The brave and loved Admiral Robert Fletch was killed during the betrayal, sending his soul to an unsatisfied afterlife. It’s said that he ferries the souls of the Pelagians to the afterlife in his life of purgatory, feeding the coinless souls to the damned fleet or sending them to the next life. It’s said that many Pelagians offer a solemn prayer to him before their deaths if they’re lucky enough. Unfortunately, most Pelgians don’t get the chance before their untimely end. Patron of Battle An Elven Admiral by the name of Althrin the wise was known as the most clever Pelagian to ever sail the seas. Many men respected him for his skill in maneuvering ships around during combat. Althrin's men were highly trained and disciplined, more than the average Pelagian fleet. It is said that the admirals gave him respect after they murdered him, seeing it as a shameful thing that they’ve done to such a brilliant man. Many Pelagian Captains and officers call upon his wisdom even to this day, almost as a good luck charm before a battle. Patron of Treasure Abdulkareem the Greedy, was the richest Pelagian admiral of them all. It’s been said that his flagship was lined with pure gold! The Admiral always found a way to find riches from the deep sea or islands he’d come across. He was also the prime target of jealousy, making him one of the first names mentioned during the planning of the betrayal. Needless to say, the superstitious Pelagians call upon his name every so often in hopes of bettering their chances at striking it rich. Flags Pure Black Flag It’s known throughout the Pelagian people that ships that fly the black flag mean no harm and are simply passing through. It’s a relief for merchants that wander too close to these ships, or for other Pelagians crossing contested waters. It’s very rare that ships that fly this flag attack other ships, though it’s not entirely unheard of. Those who do attack using this flag are outcasts from society and seen as men who are soon to be damned. Jolly Roger Each crew has their own jolly roger flag, usually on a black or red flag, this is a signal of a true pelagian crew. White Flag The White flag isn’t a sign of surrender, more of a sign of willingness to talk. Ships that fly this flag intend to negotiate terms that both parties can equally walk away from. Though, it’s also seen that larger fleets that fly this flag are wishing to speak to smaller ships and induct them into the fleet. Red Flag/Sails The Red sails are a testament to Xurrukk the Red and his fearsome men. Ships that fly the red flag or sails are sending a message that they don’t take prisoners. All men that dare face them will be given no quarter or mercy. There have been rare cases that some men are given mercy if they gain the respect of the crew during their battle. Torn Flags Typically red torn flags are flown above a ship vertically as a sign of “No Surrender”. Ships that fly this flag are desperate and plan on dying with their ship. Their men expect to die in the upcoming or rise victorious, which can scare some captains away as they don’t want to lose men to death determined men. This flag is rarely flown without the consent of every crew member. Universal Rules and Expectations Pelagians can be seen as a lawless people that have no sense of morality, but contrary to popular belief, they have a strong sense of codes that all Pelagians follow. Equal Vote Every crewmate, man or woman, shall have an equal vote in affairs of moment and shall have an equal title to the fresh provisions or strong liquors at any time seized. Until rationing is required for the ship's survival. Don’t Steal from Crew Members Every crewmate is owed a proper share of the plunder or pay that the crew earns, only varying by their rank within the crew. Any man caught stealing or hiding plunder of value shall be marooned. This includes crew members who died in combat. It is still expected that they will be given their share, by simply being buried with it. Those who take that buried shares are outcast and seen as men heading to join the Damned. Battle Readiness Every crew member is expected to keep their equipment well maintained. Those who fail to keep some sort of standard of readiness are subject to punishment. The severity varies by how the captain feels. No Intercourse on the Boat The act of procreating on any boat is punishable by death by hanging, using the perpetrators’ entrails. All activities of that nature are done off the boat and typically far away. Desertion Running away from battle or abandoning the crew is a one-way ticket to becoming coinless. Men who abandon their crews are typically casted out and often even killed if they’re ever caught. Disputes are Settled off the Boat It’s expected for crew members to become irritable with each other as they’re stuck with each other for long periods of time. Fighting on the boat is not allowed and can call for punishment if the captain chooses to do so. All fights are brought onto shore, but any injuries that the other man gives to the other has to make up for the lack of work. This means their chores and required work is doubled if they damage the other crew member too much. Pay for Wounded Crew members that lose limbs are subjected to compensation. They’re given three times their share as compensation. Captains who fail to do this are typically thrown out by the crew and casted out by other Pelagians. Negotiations All are allowed to invoke the action of ‘Parley’. Once a parley is called, either with the white flag or through shouting, all engagement will stop, and the Captain will be escorted to the enemy Captain's quarters to negotiate surrender or other terms. During this time, the Captain nor their crew shall come into harm by the opposing crew. Docked Ships Attacking a fellow Pelagian ship that is docked is extremely frowned upon. This includes any of the crew that are in port at the time. All battles must be taken either to the seas or away from the port you or they are docked at. Social Customs Navy Ships Navy Men are considered slaves to the rule of land lovers. They’re seen as invaders to the free open seas and any navy ship that a pelagian comes across is typically shot down instantly. There's no quarter for navy men as their vicious dogs that are ripping the seas apart. Privateer It’s not unheard of for Pelagian crews to be hired by nations to attack or defend places. However, there are unspoken rules to how a Pelagian may take on these jobs. This is because they end up riding a fine line between Navyman and Privateer. A Privateer should not wear the nation's uniform while conducting the job, nor receive any kind of rank within that nation's military. Otherwise, they’re nothing more than a navy-dog who’s abandoned his very culture and life. Children’s Life Children who find themselves “lucky enough” to join a Pelagian crew are nicknamed ‘barrel monkeys’. They typically wash the decks and clean weaponry while aboard the ship, completing chores as their way to earn their keep. During battle they’re not spared the time to hide as there’s nowhere really for them to go, so instead they're typically ammo carriers for the ship's armaments. Parenting This is very rare! Most Pelagian men don’t stick around long enough to even name their children! It’s culturally normal for them to simply abandon their children with the women they were with. The rare cases in which a male Pelagian decides to do some parenting, they typically are harsh and dismissive of their children. They’ll treat them just like the other barrel monkeys. If the parent dies for any circumstance the crew typically takes on the role of raising the child as a group effort unless the parent originally abandoned the child. Marriage This may be rare, but it happens every so often. Marriages are sanctified by the captain of the ship, typically melting the two soul coins together. There’s an exchange of rings in some cases, using unique metals found from the ocean. It’s not typically taboo to step out of the bounds of marriage when sailing, as Pelagians tend to find the ‘interactions’ as a natural thing just like eating or drinking. However, it’s left up to the two that are wed to decide. Pirate Coves The Pirates spend most of their time aboard a ship living the life of the sea, but there have always been those who retire to the land. Pirate Coves are typically controlled by the fleets that they’re aligned with. Thus, the Admiral of the fleet is typically the head of the cove. Since they’re often gone out at sea, they leave a leader of sorts in charge of the cove in their absence. It’s a lawless land simply held together by the honor and codes of the Pelagian people. Most outsiders can find some sort of safety there, but once they’ve overstayed their welcome, the locals typically get aggressive. The coves are always constructed near water as they’re constantly getting ships coming in and out of their lands. Language Pirate Speak The language that the Pelagians follow shifts around quite a bit. There’s no set language that every Pelagian understands and follows, but as individual groups, they tend to develop their slang. This ‘Pirate Speak’ is entirely derived from their native language and jargon that they’ve picked up over time. Each fleet and sometimes even crews will develop their version of Pirate Speak. OOC Each Fleet/bloodline that is created can and should develop their own jargon. It’s suggested to fully use your native tongue and create jargon that you think would be used to some extent. If your bloodline is a similar race to another bloodline, please ask permission to use their version of pirates speak. Malone Bloodline History The Malone bloodline was started by a heartlander commoner by the name of Rollan Malone. He was a simple man that followed a life of thievery and robbery. He wasn’t the most educated man, but what he lacked in schooling he made up for in wit. When he first heard about the seas and its untold riches he decided to dress up as a nobleman who was going to buy a ship. He and a few members of his bandit group played their parts perfectly as they were talking to the local shipwright. They climbed aboard the ship with the invitation of the shipwright and received a full tour and lesson on how the boat worked. Shortly after they found themselves sailing off with the boat and tossing the shipwright off the side. The Red Fleet Under the time of Pelagian fleets rising from the seas, Rothland Malone had already spent most of his time in the southern hemisphere and tropical islands. Many of the locals found him and his crew quality company, as he tended to help the small fishing villages he visited. He had one singular village that had a “special place in his heart.” Malone enjoyed visiting for its rum and a particular woman. Many of the local village lads joined his fleet as they wanted to see the life that he was living: Pure Freedom. Unfortunately for him and the many young men that came from these villages, once the Empire started to push the Pelagians back, they targeted their villages as Pelagian hideouts. The Imperials didn’t hesitate to kill anyone who stayed in their homes, showing no mercy for women or children. Upon hearing this, the Malone Fleet took their transgressions personally and painted their sails red in navy men's blood after every victory. Late into the war with the empire, the entire fleet’s sails were red with blood. Ever since, the fleet has hoisted red sails as a tribute to their ancestor’s anger and vengeance, giving themselves the name “The Red Fleet”. Ship Designs The Red Fleet uses Caribbean style ships in their arsenal. They typically can rise around 90 blocks long for their frigates and as small as 45 blocks long for their sloops. They’re well crafted for tropical and rainy climates and sometimes customized with heavy rams that can break into the sides of ships or break up the ice. Their sails are typically red and consist of a mix of jackknife sails and heavy masts. They are typically armed with Xbows and sometimes ballista as their main armament. Blacksmithing The Red Fleet uses a variety of weaponry that’s similar to your classic pirates. European style blades and hard steel. They typically embroider them with symbols of their Jolly Roger. There are some rare cases that they’ll find ores from the ocean and make fine pieces of weaponry and rings with it. They specialize in close combat, so most weaponry is built with that in mind. Siege weaponry isn’t their strong suit, but they do specialize in ship weaponry such as ballistas for naval battles. Pirate Speak They use common tongue mixed with a variety of slang. A more formal list of the language will be set at a later date once proper rp is set and made with the language. OOC Blood Line Info If anyone wishes to make a bloodline they’ll have to contact cypriancyberniskos#3032 or Mistel#5521. Anyone who makes a bloodline (Six Total) will have to design a culture post within reference to this post, allowing a more unique look to their fleet/bloodline. If anyone wishes to use this culture we’re open to letting people join and thrive as a Pelagian crew. If you’re wanting to talk to us about anything confusing we have a discord for this culture. https://discord.gg/aWJJatg

[!] The scroll was sent out to the libraries of Irrinor and Talus, as well as some specific druii. A collection of writings from Sister Orison on the Emerald Way On the Nature of the Tayna Tayna. The soul of life. It is the living energy that contains all. I speak of the balance, of the living, breathing, growing, changing soul, one alive just as you are. You are part of the tayna- connected and one with every living thing on this world. With every moment, ripples and changes cascade outwards as time goes on. Just as any living being, it can be harmed just as you can. But it also can heal, and grow just as you. One can hear these ripples, these... cadences if one tunes themselves into the world around them. The tayna sings these changes constantly, and with a trained ear, one can sense and notice this song. To do this, a disciple must be sensitive to all of the living beings around them, to each and every one, no matter how insignificant they may seem on the surface. Once you do this, you will hear the song of the tayna, and you will know its will. By being in tune with the balance, you will be guided. It will influence your feelings, your instincts, and it will bring you where you are needed most. Follow your instincts, and your feelings, and the balance will show you its will. It will become your own. And now a question we face, a question answered in different ways by the creeds. Are the Aspects like water, formless spirits of nature? Or beings such as you and I, living, breathing, talking? The answer is not so simple, I think. I believe them to be both. They exist within the balance, and I know that the balance is but one living and growing energy within the world. It holds but one soul, in which is held every life as we know it. It makes its presence solid through its various forms. A blade of grass, a boar, a tree, and even the mani themselves. And within this soul, I believe the Aspects dwell as well. Their spirit formless as ours all are, but omnipresent as the tayna. But still, beings that live and breath just as you and I. Must the two be mutually exclusive when dealing with forces as universal and powerful as the tayna and the Aspects? To Strengthen the Three Your body is your tool for your will, and the tayna’s. Your instrument with which to tune the world. It is both your sword and shield that you must use to defend yourself and the balance that we hold so dearly. It is the arrow that reaches its target, and the home that protects you from the biting winter rains. What use is a broken tool? Would you fight with a blunt blade, or a shattered shield? Would you seek shelter inside of a rundown shack? I would think not. As one would sharpen their blade, so too must we sharpen ourselves. And just as one would survey a fortress’ walls, we can leave no part of ourselves unable to withstand the coming battles. This process does not come without pain. To build yourself up in such a way is to undertake great suffering. A necessary suffering to build a fortress from crude beings such as we. This hardiness sits at the core of the Emerald Way. Endurance through all things. In order to become as emerald, the mind, body, and spirit must be trained and hardened to withstand all that a disciple of the Aspects may come across. To become a guardian of the Emerald Way, one must undergo this rigorous conditioning, that they may uphold the balance in the face of the countless threats this world offers the balance. Mind - To be sharp and alert. Aware of the world around you, and of the world within you. To remain calm when confronted with great tragedy and terrible loss. To stand unflinching against unimaginable horrors. Do not let adversity shake you, even when faced with overwhelming odds. Find the calm which keeps your serenity through the darkest of times. A calm, steady mind brings strength, and through strength you will endure. This is what it means to follow the Emerald Way. Body - Let not the frost bite, nor the flame burn. Let not the blade sting, nor the arrow pierce. Make your skin as an ironwood shield, your breath deep and cavernous! Know thy body, and wield it as you would a quill. From now forward, you pen a letter to those above with your life. Spirit - Live in tune with the tayna- the living energy that runs through the veins of the world, and within the veins of every creature that walks it. The energy that both contains us, and that we contain within. For those that live at one with the tayna will be able to bring the Eternal Forest to the earth. Open your eyes, and look within the balance to show you the path ahead. Trust in the will of the tayna, and allow it to guide your actions within the world. To Be in Tune with the Tayna Bring yourself to the present moment. The song does not exist within the past, nor the future. Do not allow your mind to bring you to these places. Do not dwell on the events of the past, nor on what has yet to come. Be mindful of them, but do not allow them to tear you from the present. Do not allow your worries, or your shame to distract you. Focus. It will determine where you are. If you live within the past, then within the past you shall live. If you seek to reach into the future, the moment you are in will slip by without notice. Be now. Keep your serenity. A calm mind brings strength, and through strength you will endure. When you are in tune with the tayna, you will become one with it. It will make its will known to you, deep in your heart. When you are in tune with the tayna, your feelings will guide you towards its will. You will be able to sense its cadences, its ripples. You will be able to read them as one reads a book. Trust in your feelings and in your instincts when you are at peace. It may be the will of the balance making itself known to you. To Fight for Harmony Cities of stone are great wounds upon the earth. Great wounds within the tayna- within the Balance. Picture this place, the bustling roads full of people. Picture the great towers of cut stone that threaten to pierce the sky. Now picture a ruin. A fallen fortress within your mind’s eye. It is overgrown, reclaimed by the life around it. Between the stones in the walls, life stretches between, breaking even the tallest of walls into piles of rubble. Water floods once busy causeways, washing away even the memories of the past into the rivers and into the oceans. This is the power of the tayna when it is allowed to heal. Life reclaims all in due time. These stone palaces can know no permanence when left at peace. When the bustling roads become barren, and the constant fight against the balance ends, the tayna reclaims. As adherents of the tayna, our fight must be to bring this peace to fruition- to end the constant fight against nature, that these wounds may heal on their own. By this, I do not mean to fight against those within cities. I do not intend to end the city as we know it. No, our path lies in teaching harmony to those within cities and stone. Look to Irrinor. Look to Talus, though it is not a city of its own- many people live within its borders. These places are examples of how we may live in harmony and peace with nature. See how the streets themselves are bountiful with life, and the places in which they live provide bounty of their own. In return, they provide protection for the land upon which they rest. The tayna need not fear wounds within their bounds. They work in tandem for mutual benefit. Bring this harmony to the world, and fight against those that would seek to upset it. Fight against those that would have discord and chaos.

THE LIFE OF SER NIKOLAUS KORTREVICH “The Most Distinguished Man to Live” By: Otto Kortrevich “A bull doesn’t concern himself with the opinions of cattle like yourself, Rodrik.” -Nikolaus to Rodrik Kortrevich, 1750 EARLY LIFE CHILDHOOD Nikolaus; born as Nikolaus Halldor, son of my uncle Henrik and aunt Lilliana. From the young beginnings of his childhood, Nikolaus held a tenacious bond with his father more so than his mother. He took prominent appreciation in his father’s expertise in swordsmanship which would later pivot his life in the direction that would land himself years subsequently. Throughout his adolescence he became well-educated on the simple fundamentals of wielding a blade, footwork and drawing a bow & arrow. His enthusiasm was mutual with myself, who together spent a great deal of time with each other as both of our fathers were distinguished within the first order of the Brotherhood of Saint Karl; both of which held the rankings of Master-at-Arms. Training amongst the four of us was commonplace during our early adolescent years as we fervently continued to get better at what we enjoyed most. Several hardships were inevitable and that laid true during both mine and Nikolaus’ childhoods, the major known conflicts that occurred at the time were the ever continuous Vaeyl Wars and The Third Atlas Coalition War among the two of them the Siege of Nordengrad (c. 1690) would take the lives of both my father and uncle. An already stalwart bond between the two of us later strengthened following our fathers passings. After numerous years following the deaths of the renown, heroic warriors of Lukas and Henrik, both Nikolaus and I sought to continue our common interest in following the footsteps of our esteemed fathers. By the time we reached the ages of eighteen[Nikolaus] and twenty-one[Otto] we quickly enlisted ourselves into the Brotherhood of Saint Karl under the direct commandment of Lord Marshal Rhys var Ruthern. Within prompt fashion, we rose through the ranks as we became distinguished in the brotherhood and made our names known amongst our fellow brothers. [see ‘Rise Through The Ranks’] MARRIAGE Through years of training a part of the Brotherhood and defensively taking part in countless raids and skirmishes against the Red City of Markev, the thought of marriage never came across his mind for a foreseeable acquisition but that opinion would soon shift when he was introduced to Lotte. On his excursion to the Imperial capital of Carolustadt he and I made way to the capital in aspiration to register to vote for the Imperial Parliamentary Elections of 1703. Upon our arrival to the capital of The Empire of Man both myself and Nikolaus would later be introduced to Lotte Rosendale who was merely a medic pondering the streets at the time. Soon after the meeting amongst the three of us, I suggested taking the conversation to the nearby tavern at the forefront of the city. Quickly thereafter, Nikolaus and Lotte would soon become well-acquainted and as time progressed their bond grew ever closer which would ultimately lead them to marriage the following winter. The wedding had a good showing as it was open to the general populace of Haense, featuring the attendance of His Majesty, King Robert I and Her Majesty, Queen Elizaveta with the added guard battalion of the Brotherhood and the Knights of Bihar presiding which featured the presence of notable figures like; Ser Henrik Ludovar, Ser Varon Kovachev, Ser Dominic Grimm and Ser Bjolfr Nord. The marriage between the two was unlike any other but faced victim to turmoil as any other marriage does but nevertheless their bond remained lusty and strengthened every day as their family began to grow day by day. BEGINNINGS OF HOUSE KORTREVICH The House of Kortrevich: ( Common: Kortrevich, High Imperial: Kortrevinus ) The House Of Kortrevich was once divided between two families; the Haldors and the Blackwoods up until it was revealed the two families had common relatives. Following this revelation made by my uncle Elijah Haldor, the two families assumed the common surname- Kortrevich{Kortrevinus}. Ever since the family’s first establishment in the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, the ménage has played a significant role apart from the Royal Military where we once held a rather large host of men and women who too bore the colors of Black & Gold. Since the dawn of the famed legends of my father and my uncle our family has held rankings such as Master-At-Arms up through Kaptain until my generation of the family arrived and embarked on our own ventures and aspirations. The generation of my kin would be the very individuals who would continue to hold a large presence in the Royal military and seek to obtain knighthoods, political positions and direct oversight in the Royal government that resided in the Dual-Monarchy. It was only shortly after our family made our name widely known which would be rewarded by the titular enfeoffment of the Barony of Koravia by His Majesty, King Marius I, following our leal service to the crown and the insurmountable amount of due diligence in regards to leading the Kingdom’s army, Kingdom’s knightly system and help aid the Kingdom’s very function within the Duma halls. Our household itself has continued to praise the idealism of remaining committed to the crown and ever-fervent to serving the crown directly by any means necessary. [see ‘House Kortrevich’ post for more information] (*coming soon*) “I’m not questioning your honor nor your merit, Darius. I’m denying its existence outright.” -Nikolaus to Darius Ault, 1699 The Siege of Arberrang, 1691 RISE THROUGH THE RANKS When Nikolaus and I were of our adolescent years we looked to be enlisted soldiers in the Brotherhood of St. Karl in the likes of our fathers. It was only until Nikolaus reached eighteen years of age and I, twenty-one years of age where we would actually be recruited by the young Prince Marius and Lord Jakob Ludovar himself and bare the colors of Black & Gold. Our rise through the rankings was swift in fashion as our expertise with swords in hand outmatched those less skilled. Nikolaus took particular liking to being on the direct front-lines while on the contrary I took to rising through the ranks to become an enlisted officer and have oversight from the rear-lines. Our household during this period of time had a large presence in the standing military at the time which garnered us the respect of the already established nobility houses that have stood for generations. Nikolaus and I continued to rise through the ranks and receive promotions up through till I was granted the honor of being named Lord Marshal by His Majesty, King Robert I for eighteen years where at that point, Nikolaus sought to finally achieve knighthood and bring honor to the House once more. From the very beginning, where both Nikolaus and I were young children, our aspirations were common but despite this being the case we both chose different yet similar paths which would land ourselves years subsequently. KNIGHTHOOD Ever since Nikolaus was but a mere teenager his aspiration to become a Knight became well-known to that of his friends and family. Nikolaus, while fortunate to be born into a rather large common-born household wasn’t privileged to the natural-born right to squire and because of this he sought to prove himself by any means necessary. Varon Kovachev, the incumbent Paramount Knight at the time was one Nikolaus sought to personally prove his worth to yet, it was only until His Majesty, King Robert I himself placed a set of quests and adorous trials for Nikolaus to complete for him to then later be recognized years later by the populace of Haense as a Northern Knight of Hanseti-Ruska. WARS & BATTLES ★= Commanding role Third Atlas Coalition War: >Siege of Arberrang (1691) >Siege of Kal’Tarak (1692) Vaeyl Wars: >Battle of Last Hope ★ (1704) War of the Two Emperors: ( 1715 - 1721 ) >Battle of Upper Rodenburg ★ >Battle of Lower Rodenburg >Battle of Helena Fields >Siege of Helena ★ >Battle of the Rivers >Battle of Leuven >Second Battle of Leuven >Battle of Silversea >Battle of Koengswald Three-Month War: ( 1725 ) >Battle of Tal’Short >Second Battle of Tal’Short Lorrarinian Revolt: ( 1729 - 1730 ) >Siege of Guise ★ War of Orcish submission: ( 1731 - 1737 ) >Siege of Krugland Rubern War: ( 1740 - Present ) >Battle of Hangman’s Bridge >Battle of Reza “Never forget who you are. The rest of the world will not. Wear it like armor, and it can never be used to impair you.” -Nikolaus to Ulric Vyronov, 1716 The Siege of Helena, 1716 THE TROUBLES RODRIK’S BETRAYAL Upon the eruption of The War of the Two Emperors, our cousin Rodrik had his allegiances swayed in full support towards the Imperium Renatum as opposed to his sworn oath and once full-fledged support towards the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, the very Kingdom he himself swore to protect. Following this revelation to the populace of Haense, the once praised Knight Paramount was perceived entirely differently and was now sought to be an oath breaker and one not to be trusted in the slightest of means. Immediate backlash from the denizens of Reza was imminent towards our House as the once esteemed Knighted figure was in actuality part of our nobility household; the Kortrevich ménage. Several prominent figures who dealt with the backlash first hand were; myself, Nikolaus, Duncan, Erik and Martin but from other perspectives within the family, this sudden betrayal of Rodrik’s saw changes in the way some members of the family lived- Sarah, Lotte, Primrose, Emaline and Arabella took more heedful precaution when travelling within side the city and took notable wariness when obligated to travel outside the city to the noble landings of Ayr and Nenzing. Among the many challenges that occurred throughout Nikolaus’ long life, this among any other obstacle was one that would later pivot the outlook on the future of the family. ROYAL ORDER FOR THE APPREHENSION OF RODRIK Rodrik, the incumbent Knight Paramount of Haense at the time before his betrayal was one of if not King Marius’ closest confidantes which was known as Rodrik took attendance in many of the Aulic council meetings during his short-tenure. With this being said, when Rodrik’s allegiance swayed entirely to that of the Imperium Renatum it was imminent that our House would undergo an insurmountable amount of backlash as the once esteemed Knighted figure bared the names of turncoat and traitor by the denizens of Reza at the time. Nikolaus while recently being promoted as Knight Paramount following both Rodrik’s betrayal and the unfortunate death of Ser Dominic Grimm it was Nikolaus’ task as Rodrik’s cousin to carry out the charge demanded by His Majesty, ‘to return Rodrik back to Haense where he’ll receive the proper punishment for treason against the crown’. The order itself came from the words of King Marius and would finally be fulfilled thirty-years subsequently when the two estranged cousins’ crossed paths for a final time. [see ‘Fulfilling a Promise’ for continuation] TUTELAGE OF RODRIK’S CHILDREN Following Rodrik’s immediate dismissal of his own kin during The War of the Two Emperors, Rodrik’s own children were kept under captivity under his sole guardianship. His mind was severely clouded which serves as adequate reasoning for him not allowing his own wife, the mother of his two children the ability to cater to them and raise them amongst a loving family in Haense as opposed to the war-riddled city of Helena under the guardianship of solely Rodrik and his twin brother; Cassius. Each of our family members, especially Nikolaus made it their priority to eventually retrieve the children from captivity despite the ongoing war that scarred the Arcasian plains. It was only a matter of time that Rodrik would retort something in response to the many missives sent by Nikolaus and the family and soon enough upon one early morning two dragon knights arrived swiftly to the gates of Reza on horseback where the two Kortrevich children and one barbanov bastard could be seen being pulled by the trio of stallions. The escort was not in the slightest bit small as accompanied with the two dragon knights, an entire battalion of Red Knights and Ordermen from the Order of the Red Dragon surrounded the escort all the way from the imperial capital of Helena to ensure their safe arrival. Upon their arrival to Reza the children were quickly placed in front of the gates where a singular guard then shouted to the nearest guardsmen in Reza: “Call for Ser Nikolaus, these children are of Kortrevich blood and Ser Rodrik wishes for their utmost amount of safety. . . Ensure they are brought to the hands of Nikolaus.” [!] Attached to one of the children’s baskets would be a tattered parchment signed by his Imperial Excellency, Ser Rodrik Jozsef Kortrevich, "I, Rodrik of Kortrevich hereby give full tutelage of my children to my cousin Nikolaus of Kortrevich, current Knight Paramount of Haense - this message will arrive sooner or later, but I might already be gone, I've sailed, away from this realm, away from this war and away from the fray - I care for the safety of my children and I understand that even after what has happened you all do as-well, The deal is very simple, you may raise them, teach them your ways and treat them as yours, but if anything happens to them, or I hear that they're being treated ill and they do not feel safe with you, the Imperial Crown of the Kingdom of Cascadia shall retrieve them. In brief. allow them to explore, teach them of the perils, but more than anything - let them be free." “So many promises…they make you vow to uphold. Defend the sovereign. Obey the king. Preserve his confidence. Do his bidding. Your life for his. But obey your father. Love your sister. Protect the innocent. Safeguard the weak. Respect the Gods. Be law-abiding. It’s too much. No matter what you do, you’re forsaking one vow over another.” -Nikolaus to Otto Kortrevich, 1706 Lotte Kortrevich laying on her deathbed, 1729 HEARTBREAK DEATH OF LOTTE, 1729 Among the many things that Nikolaus was met with during his life, the death of his dear wife Lotte was one that struck him like no other. Their marriage had its hardships and blessings but one thing that remained true up and till the end was their mutual love for eachother and their children they brought into the world. The eternal bond between the two was recognized by their kinsmen and the extended families abroad which ultimately made her truly one that was arduous to leap over for all who knew her closely. While the tailend of their ever-fruitful relationship did encounter sour turns they remained resilient with each other for the sake of their children, even if that meant for them to live apart from each other for years at end. Both Nikolaus and Lotte had their evident flaws that I personally can list out but despite these flaws at every corner moment they sought to deal with them and overcome the many obstacles that covered their common path. By the end of Lotte’s joyous life, she remembered nought but the few names of those closest to her; Nikolaus and Primrose which saddened her to the longest ends. I myself grew a deep sense of sadness when the day arose when Lotte, a good friend of mine, my cousin’s wife, didn't recall who I was. Despite her sickness, Lotte’s passing was peaceful where she bore no physical harm but the harm of heartbreak. Her death transcended quickly through word of mouth where the likes of many who knew her tried to comprehend the reality that was in front of them. Nikolaus most of all along with his two daughters, Primrose and Emaline were in complete disbelief but ultimately came to a common understanding of what she sacrificed and accomplished throughout her simple life. Memories would be shared but the lasting impact of Nikolaus’ only love ascended to the skies that flew above further struck him down to a pitiful sense of hopelessness as the wars still raged on and saw no end in foreseeable sight. EXECUTION OF ERIK, 1725 Following the unfortunate death of Ser Ulric Vyronov, Erik would soon be held accountable for his death and brought to trial on the felony charge of Involuntary Manslaughter. After the quick guilty verdict by the Lord Justicar; Ser Gerard Stafyr would sentence Erik to death. Just following the verdict was declared to the general public, Nikolaus made an urgent plea to Andrik to be the one to carry out the sentence as he didn’t want to witness his cousin publicly executed in front of what would’ve been a large turnout of commonborn and nobleborn alike witnessing a man pay for his crimes. Andrik would graciously agree to Nikolaus’ request and soon enough moments later Erik was carried down to the cells in the guardhouse district with the assistance of Prince Otto Sigmar and Lord Lerald Vyronov. [4] (embedded link to map) where he then faced his sentence while letting out no last words before his execution. Years subsequent to Erik’s execution, Nikolaus’ initial reaction to his cousin’s beheading was demoralizing to see witness to. While Erik and Nikolaus did not retain a close bond they too were in fact cousins connected by blood which made it truly difficult for Nikolaus to overcome what he was entrusted to do. I noticed a change in his disposition also immediately as he began to remain distant towards his kin which grabbed my attention, the families attention and eventually the King’s attention which resulted in his removal as Royal Executioner after it was made abundantly clear he was in no place to be entrusted with that responsibility. The position itself remained vacant up until Lord Karl Vyronov took seating as the Royal Executioner until he himself was killed and the position remained vacant until recently, where Ser Jonathan Frostfire now stands. KNIGHTLY RECONSTRUCTION Well before Nikolaus took seating as Paramount Knight in Haense, the knightly orders were in a state of royal disarray as they all saw no clear structure and most importantly had no real basis on how exactly a man or woman achieves knighthood. Nikolaus saw immediately the condition of the knightly structure in Haense and sought to completely rework it to an adequate working condition. His first task of business was to clearly outline how one man or woman is able to be knighted. Soon after he outlined how exactly one achieves knighthood he made it well aware to King Andrik that he had avid interest in establishing a new Knightly Order within Haense that acted as a separate entity from the Marian Retinue which would take precedence as the primary Knightly Order in Haense as opposed to before having just the King’s royal guard in function. Nikolaus worked with many people to accomplish his aspirations. Among the lengthy list includes; King Robert I, King Marius II, King Andrew III, King Andrew IV, the grand knights of the deplorable Ser Darius Ault, the vile Ser Uthred Gromach and finally the righteous Ser Dominic Grimm. The many changes Nikolaus would make to the knightly structure in Haense would influence the other human nations and directly influence the construction of new ones under Nikolaus’ personal advice. [see. The Order of the Crow for more information] “THE ORDER OF THE CROW” KNIGHTLY OBLIGATIONS EDICT BOOK OF THE MARIAN RETINUE REAFFIRMATION OF OATHS "You think my life is such a valuable thing to me, that I would trade my merit for a few more years... of what exactly?" -Nikolaus to Rodrik Kortrevich, 1750 The Kortrevichbowl, 1750 FULFILLING A PROMISE Thirty years had passed since the conclusion of the War of the Two Emperors but no remorse was shown by our cousins, Rodrik and Cassius following their betrayal that would lead to the demise of hundreds. Out of all of us who sought to seek revenge for the treacherous actions Rodrik inflicted on the family and the greater Kingdom, it was Nikolaus who was tasked to apprehend the traitor and bring him either dead or alive to the Royal City of Reza on King Marius’ due directive. Decades would pass and the promise taken in my Nikolaus would be forsaken as the war neared its end where Rodrik eventually embarked away from the fray, and away from the likes of his kin. As the coward he was this was a given but nevertheless Nikolaus never sought to forsake his vow he took oh so many years ago. Many missives sent by myself, Duncan, Erik, Martin, Alexander, Sarah and even the likes of my nieces; Primrose and Emaline sent missives to Rodrik where we all plead and demanded he return to his homeland and face the countless punishments for his crimes so our family could finally seek closure. It was only till one day where Rodrik obtained a missive by Nikolaus himself which would finally lead the old-Imperial Knight to beckon his armor once more and ride north to his homeland. [see ‘Summoning a Sojourner’ for continuation] SUMMONING A SOJOURNER A handful of years had passed since the final missive was sent but eventually the arrival of Rodrik would soon stand outside the towering walls of Fort Korstadt. The host of men on either side of the wall stood still as the two estranged cousins shared few words before they would eventually sheath blades of their own and deal out justice for a final time. A period of time later would pass where the two bodies of Rodrik and Nikolaus laid; soon after the fight the garrisoned host of Brotherhood foot soldiers sallied out to motion for Rodrik’s once closest compatriots to disperse. Out of everything that I’ve experienced throughout my long life, to witness my two cousins bring each other to their pitiful end is among the many experiences I will naught forget. Nikolaus lived a fair life, one that retains more accomplishments than many well-renown field-commanders of the past. His legacy will forever live on and be remembered forevermore by the likes of our kin and our nation. Nikolaus and I shared our bountiful amounts of arguments but never did we leave a conversation without a smile on either of our faces. May Nikolaus be remembered as one of the most illustrious men to ever live. May Nikolaus be remembered for his many achievements. May Nikolaus be remembered for every vow he never forsook. My cousin, may he be remembered for the love he shared with his dear wife, Lotte and the family he raised despite his prolonged duties as the Paramount Knight for over thirty-years. My cousin, may he be remembered as one of the most honorable knights in Haense to ever bare the colors of Black and Gold. . Ave Nikolaus, Ave Haense. [see ‘Kortrevichbowl’ for more information] KORTREVICHBOWL “It's the family name that lives on. It's all that lives on. Not your honor, not your personal glory, family.” -Nikolaus to Primrose & Emaline Kortrevich, 1748 Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich “The Strong” (1680 - 1750) Knight Paramount of Haense (1716 - 1750) FULL TITLE The titles of Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich were; The Right Honorable, Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich, Knight Paramount of the Kingdom of Hanseti-Ruska, Commandant Knight of the Marian Retinue, Meyster Knight of the Order of the Crow, Royal Champion of King Andrew III. Published by the House of Kortrevich Written by Otto Kortrevich

Korna-Lin Tree Reference Minecraft Korna-Lin Tree (VERY MUCH WIP) Material Name and Description (Raw form) The Korna-Lin tree unlike most natural flora contains a unique, illuminescent sap that often forms bubbles upon its branches. Once a Konra-Lin tree reaches full maturity these excess bubbles of sap will fall gently to the forest floor as new bubbles will slowly begin to grow. These illuminescent bubbles of sap are often buoyant, and if not harvested may simply float away. Though its wood may be useless in harvest, due to the large veins of sap within, the tree has another purpose for its Wonk inhabitants. These tree’s would appear rather tall, with a twisted trunk. The leaves grow upon many layers, with vines slowly descending upon its branches the older it becomes. In some settlements Traditional wonks, and on occasion reformed wonks have also long since incorporated the Korna-Lin within the construction of their everyday homes. Upon the creation of a Tuma-Tuma (A mud hut) Wonks will often plant a Korna-Lin upon its peak. Over time and with great care the tree will eventually overgrow the Tuma-Tuma itself. Within the center of a Tuma-Tuma or at least somewhere notable within the home can be found a large pool of water that the wonk’s themselves work actively to maintain. This pool of water feeds the Korna-Lin, and in return the Korna-Lin purifies this water in order for the Wonk’s to scatter their eggs. This pool also works as an easy to access place for the wonks to hydrate themselves. This symbiotic relationship between Wonk’s and Korna-Lin Tree’s benefits both species, and has become a stable of wonk life. Applications (Raw Form) These tree’s somehow produce a purifying effect upon the waters that surround them. Scholars believe this has something to do with the Konra-Lins unique sap, that may work as an organic filter, that quality controls the waters upon which the unharvested sap floats upon. Because of this unique trait, Wonks often scatter their eggs around the Korna-Lins tree’s base. Red Lines (Raw Form) The Illuminescent sap even when processed will not glow any brighter than a flickering candle. In its raw farm this sap will glow slightly brighter than a simple camp fire, however by no means can this be used to blind, or negatively effect someone. The Sap cannot be suddenly placed on an ocean to purify its waters, these tree’s only purify the direct space around them due to the sheer amount of sap being naturally released by the tree. The tree may not be any larger than your typical oak. usually these tree’s stand anywhere between 20-30 feet before maturing, after the maturing process begins they will reach a typical height of 60-70 feet. These tree’s can grow no taller than 140 feet. If these tree’s grow too tall due the veins of sap flowing through the wood the tree would simply fall apart due to sheer mass. Harvesting Method When harvesting the sap you must wait till the tree is ripe, and the excess bubbles of sap simply float to the ground. These hardened and well ages bubbles of sap may then be taken to a smith, melted down at a low temperature, before being cast into sheets. The tree will drop these naturally but only once or twice a year. Attempting to remove the bubbles prematurely will cause them to burst, and in doing so will released a poisonous gas from within the bubble. This gas will often leave the victim struggling for air, induce vomiting, disorientation, and make the victim extremely light headed. The gas is not fatal, but attempting this too many times may result in a lower form of brain damage. The item in MC that represents these sap bubbles is a honey bottles, and glowstone powder which both come from the tree. Cooked Sap (Honey bottles) will to add to a tea, or brew. This sap can be melted fully into sheets. These sheets can create sap windows (honey blocks). When dealing with raw unrefined sap (Glowstone Dust) represents the Illuminescent sap that hasn’t been melted into sheets. Once the sap has been cast into sheets it looses its glow. (Glowstone powder) represents jewelry made from this raw sap. This unrefined sap still retains its glow. Harvesting Red Lines The sap bubbles that falls naturally from the tree is what may be harvested. This is in the form of honey bottles, and glowstone dust. There are rules in order to using this sap. For a starter the tree’s will only produce this excess sap every so often, maybe even once or twice a year. Taking the sap directly from the tree would render it to shatter and be useless. Only the hardened, dropped excess sap is study enough for harvesting. Material Name and Description (Refined Form) (OPTIONAL) Honey Bottles: Korna-Lin Heated Sap Desc: “This harvested sap from a Korna-Lin Tree has a rather pleasant smell. Upon adding it to a warm brew, the consumer will find their mind at ease as the relaxing texture takes over.” Honey Blocks: Korna-Lin Sap Sheets Desc: “These sheets of hardened Korna-Lin Sap are quite brittle, as if silver glass they must be handled with care. Upon inspecting the sheets one would find that they are rather transparent, and make a perfect window.” Glowstone Dust: Korna-Lin Sap Desc: “This unrefined sap may be used in order to create jewelry, It is highly sought after, and glows dimly in the darkness.” Applications (Refined Form) (OPTIONAL) Traditional Wonks often gather this excess sap, melting it into long, often flat sheets. The now dried sheets of sap are then used to create windows. My carving into the raw, harvested sap one can easily create jewelry, and a whole assortment of decorative items, used by both traditional and reformed Wonks for the aforementioned beauty purposes. If one was to heat the gathered sap at a mildly warm temperature they will be left with a runny, gooey substance that can easily be added to a tea, or warm brew. This sap is extremely relaxing once consumed, and has no negative effects. Red Lines (Refined Form) (OPTIONAL) This sap when hardened into sheets cannot create a blade. At the most at the very far extreme it could be used for arrows. The sap is just too brittle and would easily shatter under and meaningful impact. The sap if raw and carved into jewelry will not glow any brighter than a flickering candle. It must be handled with extreme care, forging the raw sap will cause it to lose its signature glow. When it comes to consumption the sap will not hide the taste of a poison. It simply relaxed the mind, and in taste is just a little sweet. Refining Technique (OPTIONAL) Honey Bottles: Korna-Lin Heated Sap: It is commonly known that stirring Korna-Lin sap in a pot of boiling water will cause it to slowly liquefy into a creamy substance. If over heated, or heated to quickly the sap will quickly turn into a pure liquid and cannot be consumed. Honey Blocks: Korna-Lin Sap Sheets: If Korna-Lin sap is heated quickly in a forge, upon fully liquefying it may be poured into a cast. Once cooled the Sheets of Korna-Lin Sap may be used for windows, or in the creation of art. This sap has no other practical use. Glowstone Dust: Korna-Lin Sap: With a steady hand, and great patience this glowing raw sap may be used to create jewelry. This sap may not be forged into ingots, and cannot endure extreme heat otherwise it will simply turn into a Sheet. Once heated this raw sap will quickly begin to lose its nutral glow if left unchecked. Refining Red Lines (OPTIONAL) When making jewelry the sap is often quite delicate, and cannot be forged into any form of ingot. It can however be carved, but only if great care is taken. The tree may also not be used to make houses. It’s wood is too brittle for construction, and its sap will never be hard enough to create an effective blade. This sap is about as hard as untreated, thin glass once processed Repeat (OPTIONAL) Honey Bottles: Korna-Lin Heated Sap Desc: “This harvested sap from a Korna-Lin Tree has a rather pleasant smell. Upon adding it to a warm brew, the consumer will find their mind at ease as the relaxing texture takes over.” Honey Blocks: Korna-Lin Sap Sheets Desc: “These sheets of hardened Korna-Lin Sap are quite brittle, as if silver glass they must be handled with care. Upon inspecting the sheets one would find that they are rather transparent, and make a perfect window.” Glowstone Dust: Korna-Lin Sap Desc: “This unrefined sap may be used in order to create jewelry, It is highly sought after, and glows dimly in the darkness.” Purpose (OOC) My intent is simple. With wonks starting to create their own buildings, cities, and culture I wish to simply provide a meaningful, good spirited flora that will create positive RP, and may encourage wonks to start using this to help with their professions, and traditional building. I think it would be rather interesting if the wonks villages and cities had such a signature item within them, and would be a great way for the community to have more unique interactions with the wonks. Currently wonks do the following few things. 1: Go to water and moisturize. 2: Screetch at people. 3: Do basically what anyone else does. In my eyes there aren’t many tools in which wonks can use to sell their own natural resources, or create their own cultural RP. They basically do what any other average joe would do with the exception of skreetching and sitting in hot springs all day. Some have even gone into drug dealing because they is literally nothing else unique they can do. My goal with this tree is to incorporate it into an already being built settlement and upon the map itself. I want to full heatedly give the wonks unique things to do. They are such an amazing race, written by such talented writers. They are a blank slate, with only a few fundamental rules to help guide them. With the creation of this species of tree it may very well increase the positive roleplay. I have already been told by a good portion of the wonk player base that there isn’t much to do. They often just walk to different water pools, and wait for RP to happen. They want something unique. This will at least provide that without being a determent the already established wonk culture. After all I think it would be extremely fun if wonks had their own special jewelry that hey they could teach a jewelry to know! Anyone can use this tree, and in hindsight it might very well help establish in character relationships. After all the purpose of the world itself it to help create roleplay. If lore team wishes to make any changes I am more than open to that. This is my first time suggesting lore for the server, and I am bound to have made mistakes.

A Pocket Naumarian-Common Translation for the Adventurous Compiled by Otto Kortrevich Compiler’s Note Naumarian is the language of the Haeseni people and gives a voice to the soul of the North. When I had the opportunity to be taught in school, Common certainly was the major language, however, Naumarian was still taught. These days it is used far less, however, I have run into a growing number of individuals pursuing a stronger relationship with our traditions. Haeseni Literature The Kingdom of Haeseni-Ruska has a full and well-documented history for any who share an equal interest in learning it as they do this language. The greatest resource for compiled Haeseni literature is the Work Directory, which is wonderfully kept up to date by the Brotherhood of Sigismund and the Society of Saint Everard. The index can be found in the Alimar Memorial Library in the Grand City of New Reza, as well as many of the great libraries within the Holy Oranian Empire. As this is a translation guide, you may also be interested in its roots. A great volume of the words is pulled from Karl Kautsky’s A Dictionary and Etymology of the New Marian Language. For those interested in the culture of our kingdom, I highly suggest reading Haeseni Mythologie from Otto the Tarcharman. It is a good long read for sitting and when twisted slightly makes a fantastic story for children. If history is what you are after, the notes on my cousin The Life of Ser Nikolaus Kortrevich, by myself, tell the great story of not only Ser Nikolaus but also a glimpse into the Kortrevich house. For even more history, many of the noble families make an effort to report their efforts and tribulations. Following the Compiler’s note and the brief note on Haeseni literature, the translation guide begins. It makes sure to be highly specific on the grammar formatting and takes similar detail on the different forms of regular and irregular verb conjugations. Continuing on the book outlines widely-used nouns, adjectives, adverbs, and pronouns. A section is dedicated to relationship words, explaining that there are so many because of the cultural emphasis on birth order. Translation Pages The final page of the translator has a circular diagram explaining how the Imperial dates convert to the Haense dates.

HOUSE KAERONIN Basic History Kaer was born a long time ago to two elves who followed the prophet Larihei to the golden pools of yore. His Grandfather was a son of Malin by the name of Aearon, a brother of Sylvaen, he was a Mali loyal to the King of elves with an adventurous streak. Kaer and his Grandfather got along well despite the disapproval of his parents. The Young elf learned his respect for the ways of old from his fatherly Grandfather and admired him deeply for it. The day the news of Aearon’s passing reached the rash Kaer, it lead him down a path filled with distraught and the questioning of the meaning of what life could be or offer. He did what he saw was best to stay close to his beloved Grandfather. He privateered a ship and set sail over the waters his Aearon had loved so dearly. Over the years Kaer acquired a crew of elves alike to his ways, including a certain Elfess stunning in looks and cunning. He married an elven lady by the name of Onin, he loved her, and she loved him. There was no one more caring than her. With her they gave life to two sons and Kaer got swept up in his new life, continuing to explore the seas with his new family and kin. Decades had passed before eventually, Onin died. Pushed off the ship by the wind of storm in attempts to usher a crew-member inside for safety. Kaer was broken and for many a year hardly himself. Even when he remarried and had more children, he was never the same man as Onin once knew. Colder and without much joy in his passion. Kaer and all of his crew died. Atleast, that is what is assumed due to their sudden disappearance. His family had long since split, the younger Generation had built a ship of their own and set out to follow their own course. His bloodline remained strong and alive, setting sail to Atlas. Where their voyage ported, but never finished as the lines of Kaer exist to this very day. Residing within the halls of Aegrothond along the Almenodrim, follow Mali of the Sea. they are currently lead by Kailu Kaeroinin The Kaeronin and the Almenodrim The history of interaction between the Kaeronin and the Almenodrim is a long one with various encounters occurring. Once a large battle was fought between the two! The Kaeronin and Almenodrim did some cultural exchange over the many years between then and now but mostly they stayed clear of one another to avoid more bloodshed. That is until the Kaeronin’s arrived in the Dominion of Malin on Atlas, ready to instate there place. The Kaeronin then moved to old Aegrothond in Atlas for a safer home base. The Kaeronin in Arcas wandered for a small bit even creating their own charter by the name of Attica but they eventually found themselves in Aegrothond once again. RELIGION The Kaeran praise their ancestors and a handful of minor entities for their prior ways and deeds. They aim to roam free and follow their hearts to distant shores yet unknown. The Edge, the home of afterlife, where the souls of all Kaeran go and their voyages come to an end to live with those who had previously been brought there. There they live together as they wait for the Ferryman to bring more kin or sail them back to roam the world once more. The most important and influential ancestors are Kaer, Onin and Malin as well as Aearon. Some Kaeronin will follow other religions alongside this belief in their fore-fathers. Followers of the way of the Kaeronin named themselves ‘Kaeran’. Weaponry The Kaeronin do not have a common set of weapons, each Mali preferring their own. Though, reoccurring preferences tend to fall upon nimble blades such as Cutlasses or Sabres. Traditions/Customs 1.) Kaeronin are from day 1 thought to always follow their own path and live with the wind in their backs. If this path guides them to different shores compared to that of their direct family, so be it. It is expected all Kaeronin will support their kin in their voyage to their own life. 2.) The Kaeronin are a caring bunch. Prioritising family and close friends over the masses in any situation and often seek for ways to show their unity. (Such as common colours) 3.) One of the visual traditions of the Kaeronin is the red-beads they proudly wear within their hair. It serves to remind them of who they are, what they follow and what is important to them. 4.) Kaeronin more often than not seek to drown themselves in both physical and magical crafts and arts. From Sailing, Shipbuilding and Weapon Crafting to the Arts of Weapon-Wielding and Magic. 5.) Not as much a tradition as a cultural pass-over; Kaeronin often posses superiority complexes passed down from their founder, Kaer HOUSE RELICS Kaeronin Relics are far and few between. Plenty of tales run within the house, telling of these mythical objects, though none have yet been found. 1.) The Cutlass of Kaer and Aearon. A cutlass of fine elven make, forged by Aearon very long ago and passed down to Kaer to aid him on his journey. The supposed unending sharpness and controllability of this weapon would surpass the common blade by thousands. 2.) Onin’s Cloak. Though Onin was not of any traceable decent. Her love for her family solidified her importance to the Kaeronin only second to Kaer himself within Kaeronin history. Legend has it her cloak, soaked in blood from her death is still floating in the sea, not rotting and free of decay from so long in the salty brine. Special thanks to our lore writers Titanium430 0MN15514H _Fid_ Thank You ❤️ OOC Note

A book sits on a pedestal in the library of Aegrothond, the home of the Lorekeeper Maehr’evar. It is emblazoned with the devices of Almenor, the seven stars of the Mariner and the Crown of Malin in silver inlay. One would note upon opening the tome that most of the pages remain blank, save for the very first few- evidently this is to be a work in progress, so that one might read the entire history of Aegrothond at some far date in the future. The pages read as follows: A Chronicle of Almenor, 1753 As Recorded by Belestram Sylvaeri, Prince Emeritus A Breath of Life, and Fair Skies upon the Horizon For many years the Crown and its representatives have remained silent in our isolated citadel of Almenor, for we are not a people easily inspired to advertise our presence, nor to seek glory in word rather than deed. Amid a tumultuous world prone to bouts of ceaseless conflict, it is often preferable to recede to quietude- especially for a dwelling-place which concerns itself primarily with the preservation of the history and moral integrity of Elvenesse. But it is a foolish thing, to look behind and not ahead- for the future grows closer with each passing sunset, and the forges and shipyards of the Almenodrim are never truly quiet. They labour, the smiths and Oathblades, sailors and shipwrights, so that Aegrothond is not consigned to the ignominious pages of perished history as many, even today, believe it has been. Our future is as bright as the crimson sunrise, and the secret fire which burns at the heart of our city is not so easily extinguished. It is therefore the desire of the House of Sylvaen to initiate a chronicle of history for the Isles, so that posterity may read them and know that the hands of the Almenodrim were not idle, but rather toiled and built a greater land for their heirs. It shall honour the labourers, the knights, and the Lords who make this citadel our home, and work every day to make it a better place. Those who have kept faith with the Sea Prince and the House of Sylvaen will be honoured greatly by future generations, for they have stood beside the Realm in a dark and unsteady time. From the ember you have held close to your heart, a great inferno shall be ignited- from the sacrifices you have made, of blood and sweat, you shall reap a thousand times the reward. The forges are lit. The fires are burning. Thusly speaks the Crown. Aegrothond Prevails. The Flame of Silma is Lit The Keeper of House Silma, which stems from the great Elvish hero Siol, has taken up his duties again in full- he has caused the beacon of Silma to be lit in Aegrothond once more. The Flame of Malin, as the House terms it, is a symbolic representation of their devotion to the King of All Elvenesse; a mark that the home in which it burns is a harbour for all Elves who wish to warm themselves by its light. They have taken residence near the Oathblade barracks, and intend to transform the old building into a Hearth and home for all Silma and wandering Elves. The Elder House, which was the second such House to join the great citadel of Aegrothond, is highly regarded among the citizens of the Isles of Almenor. Despite great odds and no small amount of danger to their own wellbeing, the family and its leadership joined the fight against the Usurper King from the Atlasian island. For this reason, they are given the rank of Great House in perpetuity and honoured with the title of Lord Keeper. Citizens of Aegrothond (and indeed all Elves of any nation) are encouraged to seek out the young Haust Silma, or the elder Elros Silma, for more information about the venerable and legendary House. It is understood that this is to be the beginning of a new era in the history of their family, one which has lain dormant for some years. Old Roots Give Rise to a New Vintage A new vineyard has been established upon the western horn of the bay, behind the great statue of Eleron Stormheart, and planted with a special batch of seeds from the forests of Old Malinor. Carried and preserved through the lands by members of the House Sylvaeri, they are believed to have been acquired from the vineyards of the Telrunya Family- a famous wine indeed. The Crown and its representatives now seek a capable and practiced winemaker to take up the formidable task of growing these vines to harvest and fermenting its fruit. The seeds were planted by Feanor Kaeronin, and the ground was blessed by the famous Druid Gi’garun, otherwise known as Brother Pine. The Druid was heard to say that he looked forward to tasting even a small part of home, and the sentiment is shared even by many Elves who never saw the trees of Malinor. An Order of Elves Among Men Reports have reached Aegrothond of a group of exiles and city-elves dwelling in the Orenian Capital of Helena. While information is fairly scarce, it is understood that the group claims to have a Malinic creed which does not conflict with the Tenets of Aegrothond, but the truth of this matter remains to be seen as only two Elves of this organization have found their way to our shores. The Seed Elverhilin is known to play a part in the leadership of the Order.

The Gorkil Warrior’s Arsenal “Zteel iz onleh az hozh az dah flezh dat wieldz it, but ah warriur ztill needz hiz toolz” - Mûrak’Gorkil The Philosophy on Armaments An Orc is born into the world with the gift of his race’s evolution and descendance from Krug to be naturally gifted killers. When thinking about an Orc, and their physical condition, they are closer to chimpanzees or gorillas, than Humans, in terms of strength. But even so, there are more beasts in the world that were born with even greater feats of natural, predisposed ability to take the lives of contesting prey. As such, a Blacksmith must look apon the Orc condition as the framework to a killing machine, then with a fine and precise tool, decide what must be added, and what must be protected. A sword, to many Orcs, must be massive, heavy and adorned with numerous spikes along it’s serrated edge. However, such a crude weapon gives little benefit in exchange for a clumsy and tiresome experience for the wielder. The rules of weaponry and armour must apply the same to a Gorkil as it does to the weaker races, who can’t rely on strength alone to keep them alive. Every ounce of steel, serrated spike or gap in the armour must have its purpose. Gorkil swords seem very similar to their Human counterparts, albeit Gorkil swords are proportionally sized to their strength, so that they are not too cumbersome, yet take advantage of being able to be longer. The same applies to armour. Breastplates are only as thick as is necessary to withstand the piercing of bows and crossbows. Helmets as enclosed as possible without causing too much restriction in the eye-sight of the wearer. When such a philosophy is carried out by an Orc, they become an almost unstoppable force of nature. Both physically gifted, and paired with fine-tuned weapons of war Common Weapon-types Military Weapons Shaatii, the Spear The weapon a Gorkil is first taught to use is the spear. Perhaps the most neglected weapon amongst Orcs and many races, however, it has been present amongst the entire duration of history. A spear is longer than the vast amount of weapons carried, far faster, capable of delivering fatal stab-wounds upon first incision, and can be paired with a shield. Such a weapon is most prevalent during hunts, where many beasts, such as Wyverns or Straadoths, may decapitate an Orc with one singular strike. To avoid such a quick demise, it is advised to remain at a distant, outside the beast’s attacking range. However, spears also make exceptionally well at piercing tough hides. If the spear-head is thin, even a Wyvern’s rough hide cannot resist the streamline metal piercing through, sethering arteries and tearing tendons. Poleluzk, the Poleaxe - Similar to the spear in use, a Poleaxe is granted to a Gorkil once they have grasped the fundamentals of using a Spear. With a spike on its head, an axe-head at the front and hammer-head on the back, it’s a highly diverse weapon, but requires more skill, and is best paired to a warrior when fully armoured. Due to the added affixes at the top of the weapon, it needs to be shorter so that its weight is not too far away from the wielder, thus meaning the wielder is then closer to the enemy, and more likely to be hit. Despite the set-back, however, the Poleluzk is often a display of a Gorkil’s prowess in combat. Shaatii-Luzk, the Halberd - Adopted after its use by many Human nations, the Halberd is a two-handed weapon, as long as most spears, but carry an in-wards angled axe-head underneath it’s spike. The weapon is best used on the battlefield, in a formation of Halberds to create an opposing formation that have the capability to both hold off and withstand an enemy for long periods of time, or cause heavy hitting strikes whilst standing at range to deal a surprising amount of casualties. It’s not entirely uncommon for a General to switch-out the use of Spears amongst the main force of his army to use Halberds, if the General believes the enemy will be fielding few archers, or if the General believes the enemy is most susceptible to being over-run and slaughtered in the battle. Leydzult, the Greatsword - Perhaps the rarest sword used by Gorkils that is still documented to be used, the Leydzult is chosen by very few Gorkils, and just as many are skilled in its use. It’s advantage lies within its size, and hitting power, however, such advantages are also gained in other two-handed weapons, but have less downsides. Many Gorkil commanders and strategists have debated over how a Leydzult should be used in battle, but perhaps the most prevalent is their ability to make big, scything swipes against spear or pike formations, batting the weaponry aside so that the opposing side may advance. Despite the weapon’s controversy and rarity, the Leydzult is still considered a noble and honourable sight. Representing the power and strength of the Orcish race, and it’s potential to cut a fighting warrior cleanly in-half during battle when in the hands of an Orc. Side-Arms Longzult, the Longsword - Every Gorkil should be armed well enough to defend himself, and his kin, at all times. Where-as a spear can be cumbersome to carry around during your daily tasks, a longsword can sit more comfortably on the hip. Compared to other sidearms, such as a single-handed axe or mace, the Longsword has impressive range, and is also very agile, whilst capable of delivering immediately fatal blows to foes. The weapon is very well balanced in all aspects a sword can be used for. Thrusting, cutting and even, in many longsword designs, piercing maille. A skilled Longswordsman with a longsword tapered well enough to pierce maille can defeat even a foe in full-plate, so long as they employ half-swording. Kurvedzult, the Saber - Instinctually, for many Orcs once adrenaline has taken over and the bloodlust has sunk in, the natural pre-disposition is to start start wailing and slicing at the opponent. Although such lack of skill and control over the bloodlust is frowned upon by Gorkils, it can be easier for some to use a weapon that emphasize cutting and slicing in it’s fighting style. Thanks to the curved edge of sabers, striking an opponent will cause the edge to slide even more along their body, and due to the curve, the edge of the sword lands with less surface-area. To anybody that knows about physics, something that is sharp, hits hard and has less surface area will pierce deeper than a normal sword with a flat edge, which has more surface area on impact. However, such emphasis and cutting power of sabers comes at the price of more difficult and restrictive stabbing. Depending on the curvature of a Saber, the wielder must angle the weapon at an angle in order to get a clean thrust, and even then, such an angle often makes the thrust less powerful, and make piercing the target more shallowly. The saber, to many Gorkils, is considered a more savage and ruthless weapon. Duf, the Knife - Carried by every Orc almost everywhere, a knife is highly useful in everday life. However, due to the philosophy of always being armed and ready for combat, many Gorkils carry knives that can be used in combat if necessary, or specialized to pierce chainmaille when grappling. A design for combat would be a Messer, a design created by Humans, or a stiletto, excellent at piercing chainmaille. Shakop, the Mace: A fairly uncommon sight amongst Gorkil warriors, the mace is purely designed for striking opponents in armour, or more particularly in the head. A poor choice for a main side-arm, however they can be useful if carried around with another weapon, like a sword, incase fighting an armoured opponent. When compared with the strength of an Orc, however, they can cause devastating blows, snapping bone, mashing flesh into a bloody pulp and caving-in skulls. The mace can also be affixed with sharp flanges surrounding it’s metal-globe, causing it’s force to be centralized on a small surface area, sometimes allowing it to deliver more force upon armoured targets, but more importantly, it also means when used on unarmed foes, the metal flanges may cause deep lacerations on the skin, almost as much as a sword. The Mace is the most crude and bestial of a Gorkil’s arsenal, however, it is often very prevalent amongst ritualistic killings. Ranged Weaponry O’Lig, the Bow - One of the most common ranged pieces of weaponry used by numerous races, an Orc can make far more effective use of it’s simple design. A highly experienced and trained archer may be able to use the Longbow, at most weighing around 110lbs in draw-weight. However, an Orc, far stronger, can pull 200lbs or more, making armours such as chainmail vulnerable to it’s use, aswell as the thick hides of numerous beasts. af-Shaatii, the Javelin - A common ranged weapon used by many infantry and cavalry forces in the Gorkil army, it can be thrown with tremendous power from an Orc, and with the right spear-tip, can pierce targets better than a bow, such as shields. If in desperate straights, it can also be used as a short spear, however the only downside having to carry it around, which is usually only done when expecting conflict. Flakas, the Sling - An ancient weapon, used before Orcs knew how to make bows and used in replacement of throwing rocks. The Sling, despite it’s crude and ancient origins is still an effective weapon when used by the right wielder on the correct target. With the power of an Orc, swinging around the slung rock, or even metal ball, it may be propelled with skull crushing and bone splintering force. An added benefit to the unlikely weapon is it’s incredibly easy to carry size and inconspicuous design. af-Pilik, Tomahawk - An uncommon weapon, only a select few Gorkils choose to carry one or more of these weapons. Ineffective against most armour, and even gambeson is most cases, the Tomahawk, or throwing axe, is a close-ranged throwing weapon that is optimized and specifically made to devastate unarmoured targets. This weapon, however, takes a long time to train with and is limited in it’s use. Krûklak, the Crossbow - A typically unfavoured ranged weapon, due to the fact it generally doesn’t benefit from Orcish size or strength, the Crossbow is still a choice for any Orc. It’s by far the easiest to aim, requiring a small amount of time to practise with and can be pre-loaded to be quickly and readily fired when it may be needed later. However, it suffers from a load and prep time that’s longer than the other forms of ranged weapon, and generally must be done when standing still. Light Armour kaal-Mau, Gambeson - The most common and easily accessible type of armour, many believe Gambeson to be only used by peasants, or that it is next to useless when protecting against weaponry. However, the tightly packed and thick layers of cotton or other fibers creates a very effective form of padding, and can often even restrict blows from Longswords completely, or make their damage on the body minimalized. Not only that, but they are highly effective when worn under another layer of armour, such as chainmaille, plate or even a leather jerkin. It is essential to all forms of warrior, from peasant to fully armoured veteran. horn-Mau, Leather - Typically a rare form of armour, due to its price and usefulness for other more important items, like boots, belts and gloves, it’s a much more common sight amongst Orcs who belong to Clans with it’s own Clan-beasts that have hides more sturdy than common cattle, aswell as going on many hunts against large beasts who may yield a large amount of highly durable leather. When standard cow leather is boiled, it’s durability is on par with standard gambeson, however it typically does not provide as much padding, making it less preferable against blunt weaponry. However, if a beast such as a Wyvern or Jabbernak is slain and skinned, it’s thick and dense leather can sometimes rival the strength of chainmaille. A skilled warrior often chooses such armour as a sign of his prowess. Medium Armour gaium-Mau, Chainmaille - One of the most common armour types used by a Gorkil, gaium-Mau is well-rounded in it’s protection, weight and mobility. Both scouts and warriors can put this armour to good use, paired with gambeson beneath to bring it to its peak potential. Many Gorkils do not increase the thickness of their rings to provide extra protection, but keep them at the same size of a Human’s. This gives them enough protection from most weapons, but makes the armour very light, making long-lasting combat much easier, and allowing the Gorkil to undergo a bloodlust in peak vigour. hiis-Mau, Scalemaille/Lamellar/Coat of Plates - Also called lamellar by some, scalemaille is less common than chainmaille, however it’s design of overlapping plates makes piercing more difficult, as weaponry must first slip through the plates at an awkward angle before passing through. Some instead make the overlapping less tight and compact, allowing more movement to grant the wearer less restriction, but makes penetrating the armour less difficult. More commonly worn by Warboar riders, the design is less heavy than chainmaille, although more-so because it cannot cover as many areas, such as the joints, and so thinner chainmaille is often worn beneath, or segments are wrapped around exposed areas. What truly makes scalemaille popular, however, is due to cockatrice scales. Usually a task of great undertaking and difficulty, elite Gorkil warriors will track down the dangerous beast and slay it on a hunt, collecting each scale from it’s large corpse to make 2 or 3 sets of complete cockatrice scalemaille. Due to how lightweight the scales are, whilst retaining the strength of iron, a Gorkil Warrior with a set of cockatrice scalemaille is a fast, explosive and durable combatant on the field, capable of sustained pro-active combat, or riding with the fastest of the Warboar vanguard. Heavy Armour goth-Mau, Plate Armour - The most expensive, yet most protective armour any could buy. First made by the other races, it’s highly effective design was quickly adopted by the blacksmiths of Clan Gorkil, and serve as a great deed in the name of Azog upon being forged. Such all-encompassing armour slung over the body of an Orc creates an extremely powerful entity of war, and its use is regularly employed. uf-Mau, Bone Armour- Perhaps the rarest type of armour, this armour is primarily and most commonly ceremonial and used as a form of outfit, usually to show of the wearer’s skill in bringing down as many beasts as they would need to in order to make the armour. However, the rare few, often mad or obsessed with the hunt, wear bone armour for combat. In these instances, it’s usually from beasts with bones renown for their strength, such as Wyverns. Since it is bone, it regularly needs to be treated with oils and kept in the right conditions so it does not dry out and become too brittle.

[!] Before you, a picture was drawn upon on a scroll, a fine and lenient framing would complement the ancient scenery, which invited the beholder to what the artist depicts Arcadia as. Upon the back of the drawing a letter was attached... ልዪርልዕጎል ?? ???????? ?? ?? ?? ??????? ????????? ????????????? ???? ??????? ???? ??? ???? ??? ?? ?????, ??? ??????? ??????? ?????? ?? ????? ???? ??? ????? ?? ???????? ??????, ???? ?????? ??? ??????????? ???????? ???? ????? ????. ??? ???? ?? ????? ????? ??? ??????? ?????????? ??? ???? ????? ??. ???, ????? ?????????? ??? ???? ?????? ???? ?? ????? ????? ?? ??????? ?? ? ????? ???? ??? ???? ?????????. ?? ???????? ?? ???? ????????? ??????, ????????? ??? ??? ???????? ?????? ?? ????, ???? ???? ?? ?????????? ?? ????? ????? ???? ??? ?????? ??? ????? ?? ????, ?? ??? ??????????? ?????? ???? ???? ?? ?? ?? ???? ?????? ???? ??? ???????. ????????? ?????????? ???? ???? ??? ?????????? ?? ??? ???????? ????????? ?? ??????, ???? ???? ??????????? ?? ???????? ??? & ???, ??????? ??? ???????? ???? ??? ???? ????, ?? ?????? ????? ???? ??? ?? ???? ??? ????? ?? ???? ??????? ???? ????. ???? ???? ? ???? ???? ??? ???? ?????? ???? ?? ?????? ????? ??????????, ?? ?????????? ??? ?????? ???? ?? ?????? ???? ?????????? ?? ??? ?????? ???? ???????? ??? ?????????. ??????? 1703 ԹՐƙԾՏ [OOC-Info] This is the final part of the naval eventline that I’ve run on Arkas, which means giving back to the you guys. Every player that participated, has a crew or is interested in other naval related activities, is invited to join the ocean-hub (Ancient Sea Ruin). One can think of it as a sort of event-charter, where there will be objectives, specialized bounties, and lore to discover and be written, all while having the freedom to do so on your own. As mentioned, the only requirement is involvement in the naval storyline, which will net you a spot to ‘freely’ decorate and live with your persona in the event-charter, while also staying at a close pulse with the storyline itself. I invite you to do DIY Events or make this your new favourite fishing spot... For further information message me on the Forums, Discord or your leave your Nickname & Persona’s Name in the thread (perhaps with a nice roleplay text to accompany it)

Introduction Hello and welcome, dear reader, to another installment of scientific breakdowns of questions posed by Christopher Francis Ocean. Today we will be discussing the possibility of Mr. Ocean coming out as Mr. Surtr - the bringer of Ragnarök. If you missed the previous installment where we discussed a line in Biking regarding the effects of moving air and heat dissipation, please feel free to give that a read over here. Context, Lyrics and the Question In the Blonde album closer, Futura Free, our Los Angeles based rapper/singer heads into a realm of philosophy that touches upon theological territory. He asks his mother, Katonya Breaux Riley, the following: I'm just a guy I'm not a god Sometimes I feel like I'm a god but I'm not a god If I was I don't know which heaven would have me, momma? Let me run this ***** I'ma run it into the ground momma, the whole galaxy [Christopher Francis Ocean, Futura Free, 2016] This is indeed a valid question! Which heaven (a symbolic term which we will interpret as referring to a form of religious belief system) would be suitable for inviting Mr. Ocean, a god-but-not-really-a-god, to essentially destroy the whole universe? Analysis None of the most popular religions in the world seem to fit the mission statement that Mr. Ocean posits here: neither Christianity, Islam nor Hinduism seem to have religious scriptures that are a match for being run over by a would-be galaxy destroyer. We will have to find a place for our god-but-not-really-a-god elsewhere. And luckily enough, there is a place for Mr. Ocean in a religion: in the Norse Mythology, as Surtr, the bringer of the foretold apocalyptic event known as Ragnarök. Let us lay out the reasoning for this by learning more about the writings on Surtr: Surtr is foretold as being a major figure during the events of Ragnarök; carrying his bright sword, he will go to battle against the Æsir, he will do battle with the major god Freyr, and afterward the flames that he brings forth will engulf the Earth – Surtr will fling fire over the earth and burn the whole world. [Henry Adams Bellows, The Poetic Edda: The Mythological Poems, 2004] Seems pretty fitting a role for a galaxy destroyer as Mr. Ocean, no? Also, Surtr fits the description perfectly of a being like Mr. Ocean that sometimes feels like a god but is not a god, as Surtr is a Jötunn, more specifically a Fire Giant – who is not recognized as a God but can do battle with Gods. Also, Mr. Ocean could likely be a Fire Giant, as he 100% spits fire. And besides, what can make you feel like a God more than defeating one in combat: If Ragnarok comes to pass, Surtr will rise up with the legions of Hela's dead mortals and attack the forces of Asgard. It is prophesied that should this happen, Surtr will slay the god Frey. [Raven Kaldera, Northern Paganism, 2012] We’ll let you guys prophesy. [Christopher Francis Ocean, Nikes, 2016] in conclusion Narthok is based and a true son of Odin yours in raiding,

Portrait of Princess Karina Sofiya Alimar A portrait of the little Princess Karina at her young ages Oil in canvas, 120cm x 80cm Painted by Darius Morgrain Whisperhood, New Reza, 24th The Grand Harvest, 1740. - Come visit my workshop at New Reza, Blackstreet IV -

Hunters of Blood and Flame Followers of the Sanguine Fire Since the birth of the Creed, it has remained an unknown and quiet addition to the culture of Mali’ame and Druids alike. Its teachings reserved only for those who were thought to be wild in their heart and strong of body. That changes now with the creation of this group, our ways becoming open to any who seek to learn the ways of the Sanguine Fire. As the ways of the Creed say, those who follow it are the apex predators and guardians in the Wild. They hunt the corrupt and tainted of the natural world and cut them out, they purify the debris left behind through blood and fire, and they do it all with the very spirit of a Mani in their souls. The Hunters and Warriors Devout Followers of the creed who show their devotion to the Wild Gods through hunts and battle alike. Typically found in the professions of bounty hunting and tests of battle prowess in the ongoing effort of collecting trophies and adding onto their lists of grand testaments. They are not hard to pick out in a crowd due to the common theme surrounding Sanguine dress and armor. Usually found in padded and studded leather or half-plate, covered in trophies and adornments. Another giveaway is the crimson daubs of paint (or perhaps blood) marked upon their varied armor pieces. Heralds of Blood-Fire The Heralds are the attuned druii of the Creed, wielders of kuila-infused black ferrum weaponry and natural communion with the most wild places in the world. Their duties are mostly the same as the Devoted, spending much of their time as hunters and warriors, only with a more spiritual connotation added to their work along with the added duties of watching the Balance constantly before leading the Devoted to purge any taint threatening its sanctity. The Heralds also act as guides for the rest of the devoted Sanguine. There are only ever allowed seven Heralds within the Creed, for too many may cause an imbalance in the strength of the Sanguine just as too many predators tilt the natural life in the wild. When a place opens up in the Heralds, a current Herald takes on a student from the devoted Sanguine to be taught. Current Heralds The Leopard The Raven The Fledglings The uninitiated of the Creed are those not yet tested by the Wild Gods, and thus have yet earned the right to their Sanguine armor and weaponry. They are encouraged to accompany the initiated and the Heralds on their hunts in hopes of being tested. Once tested, the Heralds will decide whether or not the Fledgling has earned their place among the rest of the Sanguine. OOC This group is essentially mandalorian druids. Bounty Hunting, Taint purging, a lot of event seeking and RP! If you want to join the Creed of the Sanguine Fire, come to Irrinor and seek out Miklaeil or Layla Arvellon IRP! IGNs are ThumperJack_ and Numirya!

Company of The Rose (Depiction of the Rose Company harassing members of other lowly bandit groups) What it is: The Company of The Rose, is a ‘free company’ a band of gentlemen who appreciate the word of minae more than the word of a King. The term ‘free company’ began catching on after the Lothragnian’s stooped to banditry during the Emperor Alexander’s reign. When Lord Protector Adrian began his ever vigilant watch over The Empire; many hedge knights, ex-footmen, and cavalrymen got the good idea of finding a legal way to provide for themselves and their families. So, over a tankard or two, a hardy group of men decided to write up a precursor for what would become the Codex for the men of the Company to follow and abide during their employment under Julius Franz. The Free Company Codex: Orenian Imperium Edition First Law: The murder of innocents for one’s own selfish desire is strictly prohibited. Second Law: Any sort of harassment towards local organizations or in-fracturing armies, without the probable contract, documentation, and a ranking member to oversee is strictly prohibited. Third Law: Petty theft from those can not afford financial loss, is strictly prohibited. Fourth Law: Allowing a Destrier to be lost in battle is strictly prohibited. Fifth Law: Failure to abide by these laws is strictly prohibited. Sixth Law: Failure to adhere to this new standard of ‘Free Comapany’ will result in immediate termination, of position, and life as you know it. Hierarchy: Grandmaster Contractor: Oversees all operations within the Company, ensures no man within the Company falls beneath standard. Lord Contractor: This position is reserved for those that provide payroll and employment in the Company. Cataphract General: Leads the Companies cavalry regiment on the battlefield and off of the battlefield. Field Marshal: Commands the infantry and shock troopers on the battlefield and off of the battlefield. First Hand: Second in command to both Field Marshal and Cataphract General, is in charge of organizing rallies and training. Cataphract: A mounted soldier of the Company, a key component in the Companies battle strategies. Shock Trooper: Heavily armoured soldier, often a veteran of many battles and has the most renown on the battlefield. Initiated: Learning their ways of rapidly swinging a sword into the battlefield still, but have proved themselves trust worthy. Rando: Entry level position meant for those who are still feeling out the Company and undecided if they wish to join. APPLICATION: MC Username: Character Name: Race: Specialty (pvp, cooking, farming, mining, etc.): (Also the Company has build in progress, it’s glorious so, please contain yourself when finished) ( POST IS STILL A WORK IN PROGRESS: FEEL FREE TO ADD ME ON DISCORD @hotboss_monk#8587 to make an inquiry to join)

(Credit to @Trinn for founding Tiva lore. Credit to @Sorairo, @Starfelt and @sophiaa for helping me develop this more. Credit to @Aethling for helping me give this more elven flair and for putting up with my anoyingness in general during the writing process of this.) [!] The following book would be found in the Talus grove, Irrinor, Sutica and Agreothond. Scrolls instead were rolled up and delivered to notable Elven leaders and charters, containing the same text. Tiva The language of the mali is often misinterpreted as strictly elvish, leaving a language, an art, and a system of survival left forgotten and in the shadows. Our ancestors utilized simple wreaths to weave stories through flowers, guide travellers home, or warn the same travelers from danger. Wreaths were weaved with messages through flowers and delivered when mali’ame were not advanced enough to read and lived without cities. Centuries of war and Seeds migrating seemed to have separated the main line of Tiva, leaving fractions of the language and the ashes of its glory. From what my mother taught me, and learning by mali’ame around me and from books, it seems there are very few branches of the language that remain the same across all seeds and families from separate regions, if any knowledge still persists. I’ve done my best to put the pieces together and share the blank spaces in common knowledge with the knowledge of my seed. Unfortunately, it is impossible to fully recover the language, but as a culture, as a whole, we can use and revive the use of what we still know, so that our offspring do not lose our culture at the rate we’ve lost it. I am splitting the contents of this book into four chapters: Tiva’lye – Self Identification Wreaths Tiva’annil – Guiding Wreaths Tiva’illern – Ritualistim/Ceremonial Wreaths Saner’tiva – Speaking with Tiva & Gift Wreaths ~ Tiva’lye ~ Tiva’lye is the most commonly used branch of Tiva, worn by mali to denote facts about themselves and tell about their life, personality and family. The flowers are chosen from each category that applies and placed in a pattern which repeats throughout all worn wreaths. True Calling - Angrec - Traditionally worn by druids and aspectists, or general people who seek to maintain the balance and protect nature. - Gladiolus - Worn by warriors, hunters and protectors. The equivalent of the fathers mark. - Mandragora - Worn by healers, doctors and caretakers. The equivalent of the mothers mark. - Chrysanthemum - Worn by tinkers, blacksmiths and those who work with any form of craftmanship. - Bluestar - Worn by sailors, fishermen and pirates. - Mayflower - Worn by those who have not yet found a true calling in life. - Acacia - Worn by those who have retired from their true calling. Lesser Callings - Allium - Worn by kings, queens and anyone with a ‘royal’ status. - Heather - Worn by leaders. Age - Freesia - Under 20. - Alcea - 20-50. - Azalea - 50-500. - Aster - Elders, 500+ Family & Relationships - Lily - Worn by those who are not in a relationship. - Carnation - Worn by those who are in a relationship. - Hibiscus - Worn by those who are open to being flirted with and forming a new relationship. I believe this flower was created to allow the possibility of polyamory. - Bellflower - Worn by those who are not open to being flirted with and who do not want to start a new relationship. - Gardenia - Worn by parents. One flower is worn for each child someone has, allowing multiple of these to be in a pattern line. - Lotus - A sacred flower worn by pregnant mali. One who wears a lotus flower is expected to be given gifts and being celebrated. Personality Traits (These flowers and their meanings can be used in other areas of Tiva, but I most commonly use them for Tiva’lye) - Anthurium - Hospitable. - Bird of Paradise - Joyfulness. - Peony - Compassion. - Calla Lilly - Graceful. - Daisy - Faithful/Religious. - Gerbera - Hopefulness. - Lavender - Discreet and quiet. - Iris - Smart and intelligent. - Lilac - Confident. - Larkspur - Gentle. - Protea - Courage. - Ranunculus - Bravery. - Statice - Sympathy. ~ Tiva’annil ~ Tiva’annil is the branch of Tiva used for guiding people to a destination or to tell travellers of the area they’re in, possibly preventing them from walking into danger if they're observant enough to any carefully-placed flower wreaths. There is no specific pattern, as each flower is self-explanatory and when used alone it gives the message well. Flowers can be stranded and hung from trees, or even planted in significant abundance by the road. Racial Specification - Dandelion - Home of Elves - Anemone - Home of Dwarves - Amaranth - Home of Orcs - Laceleaf - Home of Humans Hospitableness - Daffodil - Hung or planted at the entrances of homes that are hospitable and welcome visitors. - Begonia - Hung or planted at the entrances of homes that prefer living in solitude and do not like visitors. Area Traits - Calendula - Placed in areas that bring death and danger. “Do not enter.” May be a cursed place. - Cattail - Placed in sacred areas belonging to the Aspects. Usually used for druid groves. Druids used to remember how to get to fae rings by planting or hanging cattails on trees in a path to it. - Dahlia - Used in areas with an abundance of animals, welcoming hunters to use it as their grounds. ~ Tiva’illern ~ Tiva’illern is the most sacred branch of Tiva, holding the most important flowers denoting the Aspects. It is regularly used for worship, festivals, celebrations, and specific & notable events/occasions. The Aspects - Vervain - Cerridwen, used in wreaths to honor the springmother and given as offerings. - Snapdragon - Cernunnos, used in wreaths to honor the huntsman and given as offerings. The Seasons - Helenium - Autumn. - Marigold - Summer. - Myosotis - Winter. - Golden columbine - Spring. Events - Pansy - Victory, used to celebrate winning in wars, etc. - Cyclamen - A flower used to mourn the dead. - Magnolia - Literally means ‘promise,' traditionally used in weddings. - Zinnia - Rememberance, used in memorials and celebration of things that no longer exist (perhaps stepped down leaders or fallen nations, separating it from Cyclamen.) - Lathyrus - Departure. Typically used for “going away parties.” - Orange Bud - A flower used that is believed to bring blessings from the Aspects and Mani. Used in worship festivals/rituals. If using in other branches of Tiva, it literally translates to “Blessings.” - Pentas - A flower used symbolizing duties in war and battle, used in abundance after severe loss in a battle has occured. Often found on the graves of fallen warriors. - Rosebud - “Birth.” In traditional elven societies, the birth of a baby was one of the most important celebrations, bringing every member of the Seed to praise the mali woman who was blessed with the rarity of pregnancy. Rosebuds were used as gifts after the childbirth and was used in these mentioned celebrations. ~ Saner’Tiva ~ Saner’tiva is the last chapter of Tiva. Literally translating to “To speak with Tiva,” in Mali, this section is used to give messages to people, and also contains specific words used to compliment the wreaths in all the previous sections. Most of the flowers are assigned a long message that is pre-made, however there are some specifics. Unfortunately, saner’tiva is mostly forgotten and the various specific words are impossible to remember and use as regularly and reliably as our ancestors once did. Simple Messages & Gifts - Linaria Bipartita - “I love you.” Used as a gift for loved ones, typically an anniversary gift. - Rue - Repentance. The giver of a wreath using this flower has wronged the reciever, symbolising sincere repentance. - Wild Hyacinths - Gratitude and Thankfulness. Weaved into wreaths or baskets/boquets and given to someone who has given you a gift or done you a favor. - Sweet Pea - A flower given to someone to wish good luck and safe travels. - Aconite - A form of insult. Superstitious mali believed if one gave this on a wreath to someone or hung it near their house, it would bring them bad luck. Used for people you hate, or enemies. Specific Words & Misc. These are the loose flower meanings, few found after being scattered, they don’t quite fit into a much larger use but can be used to compliment wreaths and give small messages. - Amaryllis - Literally translates to “guidance.” This can be used as the Tiva equivalent of sayings such as “Aspects guide,” or “May the forest guide your path.” - Poppy - Dreams, imagination, or sleep. - Orchid - Rarity. - Sunflower - Friendship. - Rose - Respect. - Magnolia - Promise. - Asphodelus - Death. - Baby’s Breath - Innocence/babies. - Oleander - Maternal love. - Pansy - Victory. - Clary - Knowledge. - Cornflower - Growth. ~ Conclusion ~ The purpose of this book is to spread our culture, first and foremost. Secondly, I wish for all to use this sacred art that I have cherished over the years. It is simple to utilize Tiva in your daily lives – Simply look up at tiva’annil and plant a flower by your door saying you're hospitable or not hospitable, it’s as easy as that. Create boquets and wreaths, gifting them to your friends and loved ones. Explain to them the meaning of the flowers, once they find the meaning behind it they’ll understand the love and effort that put into the gift. Create a simple flower crown with the simple flowers in tiva’lye, not only does it hold meaning but it looks pretty, too. Encourage your children to learn this as a fun game so that when they grow they can hold onto the knowledge. If anybody has questions or needs assistance, do not hesitate to contact me. -~- Written by Skylar Taliame’onn The Rainbow Druid.

Portrait of Bo’rok Bo’rok the gentle ogre Oil in canvas, 90cm x 60cm Painted by Darius Morgrain Whisperhood, New Reza, 6th Malin’s Welcome, 1738. - Come visit my workshop at New Reza, Blackstreet IV -