Amaya of Venzia
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Amaya Milena (Common: Mia Milena) (9th of Malin's Welcome, 1905 - 20th of the Amber Cold, 1969), canonized as Venerable Amaya of Venzia and monikered The People's Queen, The Pure, The Admired, and The White Flame was the 21st Queen-Consort of Hanseti-Ruska through her marriage to Aleksandr II of Haense in 1927. Throughout her reign, the Queen was well-known for her kindness, the massive success of her court, and her militaristic prowess observed during the Aevos Coalition War. Her reign lasted 40 years, making her the longest reigning Queen-consort in Haeseni history.
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Early Life (1905-1927)
Amaya Milena Colborn was born to the Viscountess of Venzia, Dame Ada Colborn, and her husband, Lord Izin Kortreivch in the year 1905. When her mother ascended to the role of Surgeon General, the Viscountess had lovingly bestowed unto her youngest daughter the name Amaya to honor St. Amyas of Yore - the patron saint of medicine, healing, and botany, which certainly foreshadowed the girl's future ambitions. Amaya's early years, however, were shrouded in tragedy as her mother would die suddenly in battle. The loss of her mother and the subsequent disappearance of her father placed a significant emotional burden upon the young girl. Consequently, Amaya sought to keep to herself, which would create a barrier that seemed impenetrable to outsiders. For years, she only donned the color black and was often subjected to stares and hushed murmurs of intimidation and distaste from her peers.
As Amaya grew older, the trajectory of her life would change drastically when her cousins, Erik and Carolus Colborn, and her aunt, Elia Colborn-Stafyr, stepped in as her guardians. The trio played a pivotal role in her upbringing, supporting Amaya in the endeavors she pursued while helping her gradually overcome the shadows of her past. Soon, the aspiring student received tutelage from the household servants in an array of subjects, from history to the healing arts, the latter of which she was particularly fond of. In spite of her reserved demeanor, she harbored an adventurous - and similarly fiery spirit that began to blossom under the nurturing care of her relatives.
Remarkably, Amaya exhibited prodigious talents in medicine from a young age. Her journey into the world of healing culminated in a significant milestone at the mere age of fourteen when she secured a role as a physician at the prestigious Hospital of St. Amyas. This early success set her on a path that hinted at a promising future as the next Surgeon General of Hanseti-Ruska. Amaya's proficiency in the field of medicine not only commanded the respect of her fellow physicians but also endeared her to a wide circle of peers within the Kingdom. Despite her success, a lingering trauma stemming from the untimely death of her mother cast a shadow over her interpersonal interactions. This emotional wound compelled Amaya to adopt a defensive demeanor that shielded her vulnerability from those she did not know. This perceptible coldness did not escape the notice of those around her, inevitably fostering a dynamic where distinct rivalries began to form. One such relationship unfolded with the Godunov siblings - Lady Alyona and Lord Anatoliy, the duo who initially found themselves on the opposite side of Amaya's sharp wit. The rivalry, however, evolved over time, and the trio would become close friends after Amaya offered her aid to the injured siblings on numerous occasions. As her career in the hospital continued to flourish, so too did her ability to connect and empathize with those around her, which would come to shape her reign as a beloved Queen of the people - hence her future moniker.
Amaya's compassionate nature would facilitate a multitude of meaningful connections with individuals who would play pivotal roles in her life. Fabian Kortrevich, drawn to her welcoming spirit and genuine curiosity, found in her a kindred soul. The turning point in their friendship came during a significant moment in Amaya's life - a tarot reading where Fabian revealed a symbol of utmost importance: the Empress. This revelation, depicting Amaya's future as a queen, would foreshadow the momentous changes in her life. The weight of this foresight allowed Fabian to become a close confidant and a witness to the destiny that awaited her.
In the later years of her youth, Amaya's life was disrupted by the eruption of various conflicts, namely the Adrian Rebellion and the Mori Invasion, plunging the Kingdom of Haense into the throes of ceaseless warfare. The call of duty echoed loudly in her ears, and without hesitation, she resolved to enlist in the Brotherhood of Saint Karl. Driven by a fervent sense of loyalty to her homeland, she eagerly embraced the rigorous training that awaited her within the Brotherhood. Her training was a crucible that tested her physical prowess and ability to adapt swiftly to the ever-shifting dynamics of the battlefield, and would serve her well in her future tenure as a wartime Queen. Furthermore, she sought to embrace her compassionate nature and specialized as a combat medic, bringing her healing skills to the front lines of battle. It was amidst the chaos of the battlefield that Amaya first encountered Aleksandr, the Grand Prince and heir to the Haeseni throne. As she fought alongside him, tending to his wounds with a skill born from both her medical talent and her innate empathy, a unique friendship had bloomed.
Soon, Amaya’s life took a significant turn when King Georg, recognizing the significance of their bond, decided to betroth Amaya to the Prince Aleksandr. The announcement of Amaya's betrothal to Aleksandr, while not entirely surprising to the court, indeed signified a pivotal moment in the kingdom's political landscape due to the unprecedented nature of her background as the first consort from House Colborn. The union, nonetheless, was met with widespread approval, and the reception was overwhelmingly positive, with everyone expressing wholehearted support for Amaya as she prepared to ascend to her newfound role within the court.
Marriage (1927-1969)
Upon their arrival on the continent of Aevos, Amaya and Aleksandr wasted no time in embarking on the monumental task of constructing the capital city of the Kingdom they would soon inherit. The pair was wedded in the newly built Everardian Basilica as soon as its construction was completed.
On their wedding day, Amaya paid homage to her Scyfling heritage. Adorned in a Scyfling bunad embellished with embroidered roses, pearls, and golden thread, she radiated elegance and piety. Upon her head rested a traditional Scyfling bridal crown, a symbol of her lineage and the proud legacy she carried as the first Scyfling Queen of Hanseti-Ruska. The ceremony was widely anticipated across the continent, with over nine thousand guests in attendance.
Although their union was borne of duty rather than love, the King-to-be and his Queen shared a close bond throughout the duration of their marriage. Their relationship was characterized by a friendship and commitment to their Kingdom, forged through shared experiences and a shared vision for the future of Haense.
As Queen-consort of Hanseti-Ruska (1929-1969)
Amaya’s ascension to the throne would herald an era of significant reforms and cultural revitalization within the Kingdom unlike any seen before. One of her earliest achievements was the restructuring of the Royal Court alongside her closest confidant, Fabian Kortrevich, which would symbolize a partnership that laid the foundation for a flourishing court.The duo would establish ve Esrova Prikaz Kort - otherwise known as the Ember Palace Court, reflecting their desire to ignite the fiery spirit of Haeseni resilience amidst the frigid winds of the north.
The Queen and her Grand Lord would institutionalize an innovative framework within their reformed court, organizing the courtiers into specialized offices that would best suit their talents; for instance, the painters, poets, writers, and musicians of the court would find employment within the Office of the Arts, overseen by one Master of the Arts. 12 Notably, the impact of the Esrova Court extended far beyond the borders of Hanseti-Ruska. Rulers from neighboring realms sought to emulate the Haeseni approach, recognizing its efficacy and potential for long-term stability. As a result, courts across the realms of Aevos began to adopt similar frameworks for their own royal courts.
Amidst her transformative influence on the court's overall culture and structure, the Queen’s commitment to enriching both the Kingdom's cultural expression and societal inclusivity went hand-in-hand throughout the duration of her reign. A champion of inclusivity, Amaya shattered the barriers of tradition by welcoming commoners into her council and court. Rather than adhering to entrenched aristocratic privileges, she sought to foster true fairness within her court, where talent and competence trumped birthright. Her compassionate nature also extended to housing orphans and peasants within the palace, exemplifying her deep-seated belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their station in life. However, this commitment to inclusivity was not confined to mere rhetoric but manifested in Amaya's everyday actions and interactions with the people of Haense.
Unlike many monarchs of old, Amaya embraced a different approach of governance, one that saw her more frequently amongst her people than within the confines of the royal residence. The Queen could often be found engaging in lively conversations with merchants, craftsmen, and laborers alike upon the bustling streets of Valdev. The tavern, too, became a favored spot of hers, where she would mingle with patrons, sharing stories, laughter, and a mug of cocoa she often made herself. Her boundless kindness endeared her to the people, earning her the affectionate title of "The People’s Queen.”
Central to her reign was the reformation of Haeseni institutions. Amaya designed and renovated the Esrova Prikaz, infusing it with new life through expansive gardens, royal residences, and a brand new library.[1] Stocked with volumes spanning a wide array of subjects, from history and religious philosophy to science and literature, the library became a hub of learning and scholarship for both the courtiers and commonfolk alike.The Queen deemed it absolutely necessary that all Haeseni, regardless of status, had access to an education. Furthermore, in addition to her other responsibilities, the Queen took on the ambitious task of personally designing and overseeing the construction of House Amador's Baronial castle. The castle, aptly named Queen's Crossing, honored her unyielding dedication to the Haeseni populace.
Moreover, the Queen’s diplomatic prowess further solidified her reputation as a leader of both intellect and diplomacy. With a keen understanding of the importance of harboring strong relationships with neighboring realms, she embarked on a series of diplomatic initiatives aimed at strengthening Haense's ties with her allies. Most notably, Amaya's friendship with the dwarves of Urguan was founded upon goodwill and camaraderie as opposed to the formal diplomatic negotiations typically observed. The friendly Queen forged personal bonds with her dwarven counterparts, often engaging in lighthearted activities such as drinking contests.
Influence on Haeseni Culture
The Queen's passion for the arts was evident in the flourishing of literature, poetry, and visual arts throughout the Kingdom. She took a personal interest in nurturing talent, actively seeking out artists, poets, musicians, and writers to support and patronize. By offering financial support and prestigious appointments within her court, she ensured that the creative class could thrive and further contribute to Haeseni culture.
In her tireless efforts to enrich and elevate Haeseni culture, Amaya intertwined her passion for the arts with her efforts to preserve the Kingdom's history and heritage. She, alongside her Grand Lord, would undertake a monumental effort to preserve and organize the wealth of knowledge contained within the halls of the Esrova Prikaz Court. Recognizing the importance of historical records and court documents in understanding and shaping the realm’s legacy, the duo personally oversaw the creation of the Royal Courts’ Compendium - a compilation of every major Haeseni Court document, as well as a selection of relevant historical texts. 1
In addition to nurturing the arts and the preservation of cultural texts, Amaya's reign saw a resurgence of traditional Haeseni dances and customs [2]234. Her devotion to preserving and celebrating Haeseni culture would also extend to the establishment of several holidays and special events unique to her reign: the Khovalafest 1,a celebration of the Autumnal equinox and The Lords’ Festival [3], a grandiose gathering that honored the Haeseni nobility. Amongst these new additions, she would assemble a comprehensive list of holidays for the Haeseni calendar 1, ensuring that the Kingdom's cultural traditions were both preserved and celebrated for generations to come. These traditions, once on the verge of fading into obscurity, experienced a revival under her patronage, further strengthening the collective identity of the Haeseni people. As a result, the Esrova Court would become the forefront of the nation through its international influence whilst simultaneously ushering in a cultural renaissance for the Haeseni people.
One of Amaya's particularly enduring legacies was her influence on Haeseni fashion. Under her guidance, Haeseni furs of varying kinds and deep jewel-like tones such as shades of rich reds, regal blues, and lush greens boomed in popularity. The emergence of her Krotyav i ve Edlervik publications further solidified Haeseni fashion as a symbol of cultural pride and identity. These publications, curated under the Queen's watchful eye, showcased the latest trends in Haeseni couture while also highlighting the Kingdom's unique traditions and subcultures. 1
Amaya's Scyfling heritage would breathe a new type of life into the fashions observed within her Court. The rise of the traditional Scyfling bunad 1 symbolized a fusion of Raev and Scyfling cultures, with its laced bodices and intricately embroidered overskirts echoing the Queen's own regal attire. Corsets worn over chiffon blouses had become a favored ensemble among the women of the Court.
Amaya's embrace of her Scyfling heritage extended beyond attire to encompass traditional Scyfling headpieces, which experienced a surge of popularity during her reign. Among the most iconic was the Scyfling bridal crown, a symbol of purity and love, which became highly sought after for weddings and ceremonial occasions. These intricate crowns, often adorned with delicate filigree work and precious gemstones, added a touch of ethereal beauty to Haeseni brides and were frequently commissioned by the women of the Court. Apart from these beloved bridal crowns, various types of flower crowns also emerged as popular accessories, each conveying distinct meanings and sentiments and became a staple among the Haeseni youth. The Queen’s influence upon Haeseni fashion also involved hairstyling, where her influence was equally profound. Amaya's own hairstyles, characterized by embellished braids intricately woven with ribbons, jewels, and delicate ornaments, became the epitome of elegance. Her preference for elaborate braided hairstyles inspired a trend among the Haeseni.
The Long Winter
Tragedy struck Haense when the North was enveloped in a terrible blizzard that took the lives of many. Known as ve Bej Nikirala in New Marian, the Long Winter would be one of the greatest trials the Queen faced during her reign. For over fifteen years, the Kingdom was gripped by a ceaseless blizzard, plunging its people into a desperate struggle for survival against the relentless cold and darkness. In response to the devastation wrought by the winter storm, the Queen initiated Operation Nikirala 1, a comprehensive relief effort aimed at mitigating the suffering of her subjects. She organized charity events, established soup kitchens, and opened shelters within the palace walls, providing refuge and sustenance to those in need amidst the harsh conditions outside.
Amaya's heart was stirred by the plight of those who found themselves without shelter or succor. Moved by a deep sense of empathy, she took in various servants from differing walks of life, ensuring that they were provided and cared for within the palace. Among them was Deia, a young woman who would become one of the Queen’s closest confidants in the years to come.
Throughout this period of adversity, Amaya also turned her focus to prayer, embracing the piety that resonated deeply within her. The death of her family members, Via and Brendell Colborn, and the loss of her childhood friend, Gawyn, further fueled her commitment to religious devotion. In her efforts to foster piety and faith amidst the challenges of the Long Winter, the Queen orchestrated a series of religious gatherings and observances.
Among these sacred occasions stood the venerable Juliyafest, a tradition steeped in the Queen’s established Valdevic Rite of Adulthood 1 - a coming-of-age celebration that would honor the Haeseni youth ascending to adulthood. Replacing the customary Lifstala social season, the Juliyafest became a sacred time for Haeseni citizens to seek solace and strength in both their faith and their unity. In the tumultuous era marked by the Long Winter, Amaya endeavored to instill within her people a sense of solidarity and devotion to each other and to Haense, giving rise to bonds that would endure the trials of the terrible blizzard and beyond. Despite the initial peril brought forth by the seemingly endless winter, the four-month event was reported to be a massive success, with an unprecedented number of guests in attendance.
The Aevos Coalition War
When tensions escalated abroad and Haense faced the looming threat of war with Veletz, Amaya did not sit idle. Drawing inspiration from her predecessor, Queen Emma Karenina, she galvanized the men and women of her court and rallied them for the cause. Under her leadership, they were formally recognized as a legitimate fighting force and integrated into the esteemed Rosen Banner, a unit commanded by the Queen herself 1. The Queen and her council would go on to organize various initiatives such as mining expeditions and charity galas to sponsor the army and support the war effort 12.
As commander of the Rosen Banner, Amaya played a pivotal role in the conflict, leading her troops into battle and demonstrating her military prowess on the front lines. She actively participated in engagements, operating trebuchets during sieges and contributing to the success of pivotal battles such as Siege of Breakwater. Despite sustaining injuries, including a broken leg during the Siege of Brasca, the Queen remained resolute in her determination to fight for her Kingdom.
During a particularly fateful Tuvmas celebration, the Queen’s Tuvmas ball, Veletzian forces launched a brazen attack upon the Haeseni festivities. Amaya fiercely defended the women and children sheltered within the palace, but was ultimately captured at the conclusion of their raid. In the aftermath of the traumatic capture that followed, the Queen’s rescue was secured through the courageous actions of her childhood friend and court chef, Timofei Petrovich. She would return safely to her Kingdom, much to the relief and jubilation of her subjects.
Despite the trials the Kingdom faced, her resilience and determination remained unyielding. Throughout the war, she continued to demonstrate exceptional diplomatic acumen, collaborating with coalition leaders to devise effective military strategies. Her contributions were instrumental in securing victories, including the Battle of Hippo's Gorge and the Siege of Anthill, earning her the epithet ’The White Flame’ for her purity of heart and martial prowess.
As the war drew to a close, Haense emerged victorious, with the Queen hailed as a major commander of the war. It was said by many that the Queen’s leadership of the Rosen Banner was integral to the victory Hanseti-Ruska achieved.
Peacetime
Amaya's contributions surpassed the realms of cultural enrichment, politics, and warfare; she also sought to reinvigorate the field of medicine and dabble in clinical affairs once again. The Queen’s Treatise on Northern Medicine, published after three years of dedicated research, provided invaluable insights into religious and alchemical remedies, further enriching the understanding and practice of healing arts across the realm 1.
Tragedy unfortunately struck the Queen once again when the King mysteriously disappeared following a perilous encounter with necromancers. Unbeknownst to him, this encounter involved a treacherous exchange with an infernal blade, leading to his sudden disappearance. The nefarious circumstances surrounding this event cast a shadow of suspicion over the Royal family, tarnishing their reputation.
The Kingdom had been thrust into turmoil amidst the uncertainty and scrutiny surrounding the King's disappearance. Nonetheless, the Queen would not falter in her duty to her people. Even as her health began to deteriorate, she would continue to guide the Haeseni people through the precarious circumstances the King’s disappearance would cause. Much to the relief of the Queen and the Haeseni populace, however, the King would return months later. His innocence was eventually vindicated by the Pontiff, clearing his name of any wrongdoing and restoring the stability of the Royal Court.
As her illness progressed, the Queen would delegate the responsibilities of the court to her daughter-in-law, Princess Nataliya, to ensure the continuity of governance and the prosperity of the realm. Though she participated less frequently in courtly affairs, she remained actively engaged in cultural and educational endeavors, including theatrical productions and the education of the Kingdom's youth.
In her later years, Amaya deepened her involvement with the Church, reaffirming her lifelong devotion to her piety and faith. She would also dedicate a significant amount of time to the clinic again, just as she had in her youth. Even as her health worsened, the Queen refused to withdraw from the public eye, vehemently insisting that she was always present for the people.
In spite of her ailment, the aging Queen hosted the grandest event in recent Haeseni history: the internationally-acclaimed Ember Carnival in collaboration with the famed Emberweave Circus 1. The event was widely beloved, with over 10,000 in attendance over the span of two months, and it would be Amaya’s final act as Queen before her death that occurred the following year.
Death
With the weight of impending finality heavy upon her heart, Amaya felt compelled to embrace the beauty of nature one last time. Gathering a few of her closest companions, Deia, Cardinal Villorik, and Ser Leonid Kortrevich, she insisted on taking a stroll in the forest to see the summer blossoms. The peace was unfortunately short-lived as she and her cherished friends encountered a group of infernal demons. The Queen, much to her handmaiden’s dismay, would not run from the scene of the attack, and stood her ground. Though she would inflict considerable damage upon the assailants, she ultimately succumbed to their onslaught.
As the news of Amaya's passing spread, whispers of a remarkable phenomenon in the forest where she fell began to circulate. Witnesses marveled at the sight of tulips and roses blooming from the earth, nourished by the mingling of her blood with the soil where her body laid. However, it was at her funeral 1 that the full extent of the extraordinary occurrences surrounding her death became apparent. As mourners gathered to pay their respects, they were greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Amaya's body emitting a soft, ethereal glow. When the flames consumed her mortal remains upon the funeral pyre, the smoke that rose skyward adopted an otherworldly white hue, leaving those in attendance to ponder the inexplicable wonders of her passing.
In the wake of her demise, Amaya was posthumously honored and revered by High Pontiff Caius I who dubbed the Queen a martyr 1 and would beatify her within the Church of Canon, bestowing unto her the title of Venerable Amaya of Venzia. 2 Moreover, the late Queen’s impact on the realm was evident in the deep reverence and affection with which she was regarded by her people. Widely celebrated as one of the greatest Queens in Haeseni history, her dedication to her Kingdom guaranteed that her legacy would continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come. Her reign is fondly remembered as a period of great success, unity, and cultural revitilization for the Haeseni people.
Titles and Styles
- 1905-1927 Her Ladyship, Amaya Milena Colborn
- 1927-1929 Her Serene Highness, the Grand Princess of Kusoraev
- 1929-1969 Her Royal Majesty, the Queen-consort of Hanseti-Ruska
Style as Queen Consort
Her Royal Majesty, Amaya of Venzia, Queen-consort of Hanseti-Ruska
Issue
| Name | Birth | Death | Marriage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ivan VIII of Haense | 1930 | Alive | Nataliya of Ghaestenwald | Firstborn son of Aleksandr II and Amaya. |
| Robert Sigismund, Duke of Kreden | 1932 | Alive | Unwed | Secondborn son of Aleksandr II and Amaya. |
| Emma Anastasya, Duchess of Karosgrad | 1933 | Alive | Henrik, Baron of Mondstadt | Firstborn daughter of Aleksandr II and Amaya. The Princess Royal. |
