Dark Fantasy [IC][Forgotten Eon][Closed]

[Achesia]

OOC: This is the first IC thread for the Dark Age/Fantasy Tech group: Forgotten Eon, all OOC chat and interest please post in the main thread.

Timeline of Events:

• The Emperor holds a Tourney in High Requiem to find candidates for his new knightly order: The Deific Order.

High Requiem, Capital of the Empire of Man

The clash of lance on shield echoed through the stone amphitheater as the knight brought it true onto his opponent. The painted three golden wolves heads were almost scrapped completely off by that blow as the knight of House Wester lay stiffly in dirt his opponent soaking in the cheers from the crowd both noble and peasant alike. He galloped his horse around the list, his draping flying the colors of his sworn house, a yellow arms-man standing guard on a field of black, the Sigil of House Magnus. He bolted past the mob of peasants standing on the other side of the short stone wall on the west end of the theater, and turned to face the crowd of nobles sitting in the elevated stone seating of the east side of the amphitheater that was attached to the Tower of Ascendancy.

Noblemen and women from all over the Empire gathered to witness this tournament, they sat on cushions laid on top of the stone "step like" seating that surround a box where the Emperor and the royal family sat. Between the seating were stone steps painted white that lead up to doors that lead to the rest of the royal castle. Many drapes and coverings have been erected to shield the noble people's faces from the harsh summer sunlight that beat down on the costal capital. Lords and Ladies alike fanned themselves as they watch tilt after tilt of this tournament, the breeze barely joining them for any sort of relief, the banners of the Royal House of Requient sat still in the air unmoved.

It had been some time since the last tourney was held in the Imperial Capital, the last Emperor Julian the III in his weak sickly years did not have the constitution to hold such events, as they tended to be large and exhausting affairs of both political and social intrigue. Nobles from across the Empire would travel to see these events, and this one and particular seemed to draw a large crowd, even from as far away as the Coastlands, Welland, and Gunrado. The honor of this event was in the name of the anniversary of the young Emperor, Titus the IV's ascension to the throne. Since his fathers sickness finally claimed his life little over a year ago, the Emperor of just nineteen years had taken a fancy to holding extravagant affairs that he missed out on during the waning days of his father's reign.

The young Emperor was starting to build a reputation for himself as a tenacious ruler, taking no resistance to his edicts and orders lightly as he began to build a vision for the future of the Empire in his reign. His often grand schemes he had highlighted at court in the past year have secret become the punch line of many noble lord's jokes as his plans grew even more and more grandiose than the last. His latest scheme was to create an order of knights specifically for the purpose of rooting out non-humans and these who support them. The Deific Order as he called it would be built of some of the best knights of the Empire, and they would be chosen from the best of the best at the tournament today. Knights from all around took up this call as a chance for glory. From second sons with no hopes of inheritance, to poor knights with nothing but the clothes on their backs, they have come far and wide to join this new order.

Titus sat atop his cushioned throne and mildly clapped in a bemused way as the next set of knights readied their lances for the tilt. Jousting was not the Emperor's favorite event, but he knew its importance to the knights that would come to claim glory. The Emperor would much rather see his warrior servants test their metal in the melee, sword on shield with no horses, only a man's own strength to keep his footing. The two knights came together this time in a violent clash, both the household knight of Thrat and a lesser noble from some insignificant northern countship were de-horsed in this run of the event. The Empress Lidia, a young red-haired girl of fourteen covered her mouth in a gasp as she waited for both knights to stand up. Titus studied her simple worried face, her red strands of hair dangled past her collarbone and rested on the silks of her bosom.

She was a pretty girl, sought often to please her Emperor. Doing anything and everything to gain his pleasure, but not what Titus fancied. It was an arranged marriage between his father and the Lord Avondale of the Avonhold, to marry his daughter to a Requient in hopes to gain some sort of political power. It was an endless game played by the highborn of the Empire, marry yourself into the royal family to fill it with some of your blood, and gain power until the next scheme to overthrow that power by another house was made. Titus grew tired often of keeping up with these schemes and trying to counter them. He left most of the whipping of the noble houses to his chancellor, Lord Julitt, who had been his father's as well. Titus had other things to keep him busy he thought, there were wars to be won before he could safely be in the history books as Titus the Conqueror.

The next of the matches were about to be called, Titus bit into a apple that was offered to him by one of his servants as he sat sideways on his throne. He must look every bit as bored as he felt, the noble lords and ladies seemed distracted enough as they cheered and leered after every tilt. The new combatants come forward to the Emperor's perch as it were called, right in front of the list. One was a older knight of the House of Crownfox, Sur Severin Meine, a noted warrior who has served the Lord Crownfox for many years in several different conflicts. His grey chiseled face saw the ware of many battles and carried the scares of a couple as well. His opponent was slightly less bland, a young knight in dark scale armor, wearing all myriad of purple coverings atop his faced helm. The Emperor recognized this was the Prince Gurren, of the House of Thoront known as "Prince of the Purple Night". A young representative of the Kingdom of Gunrado from the south. These exotic vassals were some of the more interesting warriors in the Empire, carrying crescent-shaped shields, wearing helmets with faces carved into them, and painting their horses rather than having them wear a cover. They were a sight to see on the field. They both saluted the standard Imperial salute to the Emperor- fist raised high in might- before receiving their leave to begin their joust.

The two knights trotted their horses to the opposite ends of the list before their squires came to hand them their lances, and give their saddle straps one last tug less they fall from it being loose. The knights lowered their visors before shouldering their lance, and finally the trumpet was played for them to begin their fast trot towards each other. Each man waited for the right moment to lower his lance and deal the blow to unseat his opponent. As they neared each other the crowd seemed to collectively hold its breath, but neither Knight scored a blow during the first go. So both galloped to the end of the lists and turned around to come at their opponent again, the crowd was cheering this time, both names being called out in equal thunder. As they came together once again Prince Gurran leaned in to deal the decisive blow to unseat his opponent. The lance tip grazed Sur Severin's shoulder knocking him enough to fall to the ground. His leg however caught and the stirrup and he was dragged for some meters before the squires were able to stop his horse.

"Victor! Prince Gurren Thoront of the Kingdom of Gunrado!" The man announced to the crowd, they cheered his name for a good minute before he began to trot off the field, he stopped however first in-front of his sister who sat in the stands, to give her a flower as a token to family love. She smiled and thanked her brother, and the Emperor took immediate notice. She was an older girl, seventeen he would expect, her hair dark brown and her eyes a exotic bright gold that was only found in her lands. She was the picture of grace and finesse, sitting and admiring the crowds around her. Her and her brother were new to court and she had not caught the Emperor's eye until now. For a good few minutes he stared at her, every part, up and down and up again until his eyes grew sore. He was interrupted however by his wife who was annoyingly excited to beckoned him to announce the winner of the jousting event. The Emperor patted her on the hand and stood up from his throne to speak to the crowd.

"My loyal subjects, today was have witnessed the gallantry and strength of the many knights who have come here today to serve the Empire." He spoke in every amount of enthusiasm he could summon, but truth be told the entire day had to his disappointment bored him. He looked forward however to the morrow when knights would square off in the melee. "I am happy to announce to you the winner of the joust, Prince Gurren of Gunrado!" The crowed cheered thunderously as the Emperor raised his hands to the young prince who still sat atop his painted horse.

"We shall return to witness our warrior knight's glory on the field of the melee tomorrow." The cryer shouted to the crowd as the Emperor receded into the box. He motioned for one of his knightly guards of the Order of Summer to come to him. The knight clad in black enameled plate with a golden dragon centered on his chest strutted forward and bowed his head silently. "Bring me the delegation from Gunrado, I wish to welcome them to the capital." He whispered into the knights ear, not wishing anyone else to here. "Have them come to my study, at an hour after dusk." The emperor whispered while adjusting his black whips of hair from his ears. The eyes of the young man then found their way back to the girl who still sat in the stands, peering around at the large sights of the capital. He could almost see the glimmer in her golden eyes as the sun dipped over the battlements. He had not seen anything as beautiful before.

[The JVP]

Na’mhomLaa, Zarhad. Outside the Royal palace

The roads outside the place were lined with scores of people. Each wanting a chance to see the heroes of the realms, the ones sworn to protect them. The covered the roads in roses, in the case of young single women, they throw out love letters, in hopes that a knight would spot theirs and pick it up." The crowds grow quiet as the horns sounded out and the gates to the palace grounds opened up. The crowd held their breaths has a large man, no shorter than six seven stepped out. He wore a set of dark purple armor designed to look like a large beast with rows of rolling muscles and clawed feet and hands. His helmet was that of a ferocious beast with its fangs bearing. He wore a black cape and carried a large ax bladed staff over his shoulder. Every so often he would breath out a large cloud of smoke which added to the scare factor of his armor. The people lining the roads knew this person to be the Knight Kiba, leader of the Order and thus leader of the all legion forces.

Following him out were the leaders of the three legion Corps. Dan, the Moon light white Knight, commander of the Alpha Legion. Bado, the Storm Knight and leader of the Beta Legion. And Yaiba, The Flame red Knight, commander of the Omega Legion. White, Gray and Red, the colors of each of their armors which were fashioned in the same matter as Kiba's, but made to fit the skills, weapon style, and liking of their wearer.

Following them was the Golden Knight Garo, leader of the Northern Legion Corps, and his three Knight Lieutenants. Baron the Thunder knight in his Blue armor, Lord the flash knight, said to be the fastest sword fighter in the realm, wore a set of dull purple armor, and Zen, the crimson Knight who wore a set of power crimson red armor. Aside from the Knight Garo being a Half Elf, His lieutenants were all Elves.

After them came the set of Central Legion knights. Knight Zero the Silver Fang, leader of the Central wore Silver armor. The Phantom Knight Crow wore a set of polished dark blue armor. The Shadow Knight Zoro, in dark Silver. and The Shield Knight Zex, in a dark purple. Each other these knights were half elves.

The Southern Legion Corps Knights followed them out, with there commander Giga The Beast Knight, in his green armor and large ax walked out. following him was Gaia the Stronghold, Knight Giru the Wicked, and Ogha the Crazed. The crowd gave a mixed feeling about these knights, but a select few young ladies still throw out some letters. These knights were all human.

The last knight out of the gates was Gai, the Sky bow Knight. He carried a special designed low bow on over his shoulder, dual quivers at his side. He was the only knight that did not wear his ferocious fanged beast helmet, but let his slender face flow free for all to see. He was an elf by birth, but a lady killer by trade, as droves of women both young and old, married and single, rushed the roads and showered him in flowers and letters. This of course did not go over will with the husbands of said marry women, who had to drag their wives back. Gai, paid this no mind, for his knew his standing among the people as the most famous knight of the order, leader of the Zarhad Legion Navy. His name would be song by the bards, and whimpered in hush tones at knight by the ladies. But this was not an honor given to him, no Gai earned this honor with his bow and his naval forces. The Protector of Zarhad, keeping raiding forces at bay with the skill of his bow, said to be able to snipe an enemy from a mile away.

One of the girls, a young human no older them 5 ran up to the road side held her letter out as Gai passed her. He stopped in his tracks and turned to the little girl. His eyes narrowed as he bend down to her. "lirr llalirr ghdau a'ri?" He said to the little girl, who was to shy to speak back but just held the letter out and nodded her head. "llaoallsh irrdv. li klirlrl adrlo lill orioaau lld a'irr arioaaull." He said, taking the letter from the girl and putting it in his helmet. "ariauri, llalirr lirr ghdau irrdv." He said, taking his small dagger from his side and placing it into her small hands. "aurillvaull llalirr lld a'ri karill irrdv oaauri drlo." He said, as he placed a small kiss on the girls forehead. Her cheeks grow flush and covered her face. Gai laughed as he returned to his feet and followed his fellow done the road.

High in the large palace a pair of women looked on out of a window. The talk to one another about how the knights loved to parade in front of the people. The two linked fingers as the turned from the window and looked down the large empty halls of the palace.

is this for me?

thank you. i will hold it dear to my heart.

here, this is for you.

return this to me when you are old.

[IshCong]

Gaze too long into the sun and you won't see the rain until it falls on your face.
-Korrssi proverb

Etah, kan'Hamran

arri'Lanhem Mirrani was not a native of kan'Hamran, the kan he governed, much like many other arrikan, but he had lived in kan'Hamran as an adult longer than he had in kan'Rissan as a child. His parents had sent him off to the Academy of the Mortal Arts in Narrak as a young man where, like many young aristocrats, he had studied mathematics, literature, music, philosophy, in pursuit of the examinations that would qualify him for civil service, among other things. Over 30 years later, he could look back on the path from student to the governor of millions with pride. And, though it hadn't been immediate, he had come to feel at home in kan'Hamran.

Which was one of many reasons he had, in his private hours after work, been developing a plan to better his kan. Carsepolitan dominance of the eastern straits of the Cut had been harming Korrssi mercantile interests ever since they had been implemented. Combined with the dominance of Taniar in the west, a great deal of Korrssi trade flowed through foreign nations after tolls. As the scion of a mercantile family, arri'Mirrani chafed at this more than most. Not that simply building a settlement on the southern shore of the Traders' Sea would change that situation, but it would permit some Korrssi merchants, at least, to trade with the Tomekian Imperium and Nysrodu directly.

As of yet, he hadn't discussed his idea with the ryk'Korrss. There were still problems to iron out before formally presenting it. He thought he had a good location in mind, but a surveying team would have to be sent to check the ground personally. A road and the work for it would have to be accounted for, there would be little use in having a port town that wasn't connected by road to other Korrssi towns and cities. There was also the question of who would inhabit the new settlement. No, his idea wasn't completed yet, but arri'Lanhem Mirrani had high hopes for it once it was.

[Pavlostani]

Carry an olive branch in one hand and a knife in the other. -The Seven Stone Tenants

Hafti Sang
The Pavlostani Order

Barodar entered the prison slowly, looking around carefully at the various cells. His two companions, Istiqvan and Valedul, both heavily armed, exchanged nervous looks.

"He's in this wing. We should hurry, he's on death row and is due soon." Barodar said. The three walked down the corridor as prisoners clashed against the bars, stretching hands out to try to touch the trio. Screams emanated from various cells, sending a shiver down Barodar's back.

"Here." Istiqvan pointed. It was a single cell, with a single prisoner sitting in the back. The within had a long dark beard and a wild look in its eyes.

"Prisoner. Your name is Volad." Barodar snapped to the man.

"Correct." Volad said in a raspy voice.

"Come here. I have a deal to make with you." Barodar growled. Volad shuffled to the front of his cell.

"You were a member of the Cult of Temna." Barodar announced.

"That's right." Volad hissed.

"Give us intelligence on the Cult, and we can secure your freedom." Barodar told the man. Volad's eyes widened.

"You're lying." He rasped. Barodar reached into his pocket and withdrew a sheet of parchment.

"Your release papers. Signed by the Patriarch himself. Give us intelligence, and we will verify and decide whether or not you told the truth." Barodar told the man. Volad reached forth, grabbed Barodar's head and whispered something furiously into Barodar's ear. Istiqvan and Valedul both quickly drew crossbows and shot Volad.

"No!" Barodar screeched, and leaned down, yelling furiously at Volad's twitching body.

"What was his name. His name Volad! Tell me his name." Barodar begged. Volad gasped as blood gushed out of his throat.

"Volad, what was his name, I need the name, and you'll be fine." Barodar pleaded. Volad coughed one last time and dropped his head, dead.

"You idiots." Barodar turned furiously.

"He grabbed your head sir." Istiqvan pointed out.

"He was giving me vital information you buffoon and died before he could finish." Barodar backhanded Istiqvan with such force that the dwarf stumbled backwards in pain.

"What did he say?" Valedul asked.

"He said that a member of the Pavlostani clergy has been turned. The Cultists have infiltrated our government. But he died before he could say which cleric." Barodar growled, seething.

"Herald, we apologize for our rash actions." Valedul bowed his head respectfully.

"Apologize after the Cultists bring the Order to its knees." Barodar turned and stormed out of the prison.

[Great Houses of Xie]

In the forests near Karasumori Fortress, southeastern Shie

"Forward!" The drums began beating out the rhythm to advance. Stepping to the beat, Kinoshita Takashi began marching forward with the rest of his butai, holding his yari angled forward. Judging from the sun's position overhead, it must be around midday; as part of the 2nd Toukabushiki fuda, his company had been on maneuvers all morning. Even though the company had been drilling for the better part of the last few months, Takashi still couldn't make heads or tails of where he is in the forests outside the fortress, which is why he is surprised as the road connecting the city to the fortress came into view.

"Halt!" The drums beat a quick staccato and ceased while horns blew. Takashi drew in the yari upright and planted it in the ground. All around him, the synchronized sounds of marching ceased. Not being in the front row, he couldn't quite tell, but it seemed as though the butai is lined up against the road. Despite having halted, he could hear more drums beating a march getting closer.

"Attention!" Though not expecting the order, given the company is not on parade, he nonetheless instinctively followed his training, straightened his posture, put his feet together, and drew the yari in close to his side. The loud rustling all around him indicated that his company did the same. Then came the wait. The wait wasn't long before the leading troops of whatever unit marching on the road came into view. However, Takashi didn't recognize the banners; admittedly, he was born and raised in and around Karasumori, so would not have been able to familiarize himself with any banners besides the Teikoku banner and those of the Toukabushiki. Butai after butai marched by, starting with the kihei, then into the kobun, and finally into the ashigaru. These ashigaru puzzled him, a bit. They are armored with lamellar, which is completely different from Takashi and his butai, who remain unarmored. After the ashigaru come the yasentokka, with their accompanying trains of beasts and wagons. After those came the supply train wagons.

"Fall in!" The fuda had apparently begun, further down the road, to fall in behind whatever fuda is marching past. His butai fell in with the rest of the kabushiki and began marching in order.

"Hey," he whispered to his fellows, "anyone know which fuda that is?"

"I think that's a kabushiki, not a fuda," one whispered back.

"That's not just any kabushiki. That's the Kyoukabushiki, you know. Nakabaragusuku? They're from the capitol."

"Eh? EH!?"

[The Holy Dominion of Inesea]

Kurisutaru, Midorushima, Einokaze Shogunate

Midorushima an island located in the center of the mouth of Korudo Bay. From here, the Shogunate Navy, the Einokaigun, controlled access to the inner water systems of the Shogunate. Midorushima was supported by Kitadedokei on the Northern Peninsula and Minamidedokei on the Southern Peninsula. From these strategic ports, the Einokaigun protected the maritime interests and coasts of the Shogunate. Midorushima itself hosted a Ryodan(1,000) of both Heishi and Ashigaru specially trained for naval combat. Some two dozen ships were stationed there, ranging from small war galleys to a massive turtle ship. However, the most famous and elite unit assigned to Midorushima was the 3rd Senshi Daitai(500). Like the Heishi, they were trained with the Yari and Katana, and like all Senshi they were trained with the Yumi and Naginata. However, they also learned naval boarding and coastal raiding tactics. Over the past few decades, the three Daitai of Senshi assigned to the three strategic ports were seen as the forefront of Einokazen defense against the Empire. The Senshi were the elite, some 5,000 soldiers out of 80,000. The Mizu-Senshi, as they were called, were the elite 1,500 of the 5,000.

Nakamura Shinji was not a Mizu-Senshi. He was not a Senshi at all. Nor was he even a Heishi. No, he was a lowly Ashigaru who could only aspire to one day be a Senshi. Shinji came from an average corn raising village in the Northlands. He had left home at 16 and joined the Ashigaru in search of adventure. Now he was 22 and a Gocho with his own Buntai of ten men. However, while he might have held tremendous prestige in his hometown, here in the bustling city of Kurisutaru, he was but another soldiers in a city of soldiers and traders. He aspired to be more than another face in the Shogun's Army. He just wasn't good enough. He was skilled with the Yumi and Katana, unlike many of his peers, but he lacked the skill with the Naginata and Yari that was needed to be a Senshi or Heishi.

And so here Shinji stood, drilling his men in the use of the Katana. Slash, dodge, disengage. Avoid blade on blade contact. Avoid armor, reach for chinks in armor. Every nick in the blade is another hour spent honing the blade. Dip, twirl, block with the shield. Slash and thrust. On and on it went. After that, came Yumi practice, firing arrow after arrow into targets, from varying distances. Tomorrow would be labor, working on paving the road between to new forts. As the Ashigaru did, they spent half their time on training and half on working on military projects.

"Gocho-san" called a voice behind Shinji. He turned and saw a Chui, immediately bowing and said, "What is it you desire, Chui-san?"

The Chui pulled a roll out of his armor and asked "You are Nakamura Shinji-Gocho, leader of the Kaze Buntai of the 14th Ashigaru Daitai?"

Confused, Shinji replied, "Yes, Chui-san."

The Chui passed him the scroll. On it was the Shogun's Seal and a bunch of words in what could only be High Pavlostani. You could tell by all the squiggly letters.

The Chui then said, "I am Hikkimori-Chui of the 5th Northern Support Group. Your Buntai has been requested, as part of a hundred Buntai reinforcement to the Order. As you may know, they are dealing with a religious insurrection. You will be heading to the extreme north and replacing some of their northern garrisons as they move to quell the insurrection. You have been picked for your abilities in coastal combat and more importantly, ability to build fortifications. You and your Buntai depart tomorrow. That is all"

Chui=Lieutenant

[IshCong]

The God exists in all things in due measure, so all the sacred texts and priests would say. That some measure of divinity resides in the greatest of kings there can be no doubt, but this must also mean that some measure of divinity must reside in the basest of beggar urchins, the most common of all men. Where is the divinity in such individuals as these?

Narrak, kan'Rissan

Ryk'Karr Korrss lounged, indolently, on a divan covered in decorated pillows as if asleep. From somewhere a stringed instrument hummed, its soothing melody ringing throughout the surrounding rooms. A platter of fruits lay beside him, untouched, while servants discretely kept to the corners of the room. Ryk'Karr had been taking his ease in the afternoon for the past hour and so the royal, private quarters had an unusually subdued air to them.

Ryk'Karr was a big man, tall with a broad frame. He wore a vest wrapped in colorful patterns and left to hang open revealing a strong chest, though he had put on some weight since his ascension a few years back. A wide belt and loose trousers, both in bright colors, completed his dress. Like many Korrssi men he was dark of hair and skin, with a full beard and long hair. His dark brown eyes could pierce a person, complemented by high cheekbones and a strong jaw, or laugh playfully. Ryk'Karr Korrss was a man who could see both the solemnity and frivolity of life and enjoyed both.

Which was fortunate, because if life permitted hours of quiet relaxation within the comfortable confines of one's abode, it also demanded rapt attention to developing events. Whispered conversation at the edge of the room had a servant leave his place in the corner and step forward, announcing softly but formally that Serran Barri had arrived as scheduled, the ryk's Chief Secretary. For a moment it was as if ryk'Karr hadn't heard, but then he sat upright in a sudden explosion of movement.
"Send him in," the ryk'Korrss rumbled. The servant bowed, turned to do so, and the rest filed out silently. They had grown used to the regular visits by the Chief Secretary, one of the few permitted to be alone with the ryk'Korrss.

Serran Barri entered quietly not long after the servants left, escorted by a man who then took his own leave. Serran Barri was, by all accounts, an incredibly boring man. Average height and weight, average build, dull eyes, a preference for muted colors, narrow features, and a dry voice. In a crowd he disappeared and even alone he could fade into near obscurity. He was renowned for his ability to speak for extended periods on the most dull topics, having recently trapped a young man newly arrived at the ryk'Korrss' court in over an hour of discussion regarding the differences in formatting used between two historians. He did, however, have a knack for numbers and minutiae, which helped in his line of work, even if his official station was a farce.

Despite his reputation, Serran Barri placed a rather high value on his time, and didn't waste time with unnecessary formalities. In this, ryk'Karr Korrss was of a similar mind.
"Your Divinity. Some affiliates of my Office," that would be the Office of Secretaries and Clerks, responsible for the many secretaries placed throughout Korrss in service to arrikani and stakani and many others, "in Nakabaragusuku have reported the departure of the Kyoukabushiki. They left by the eastern road." The secretary delivered his news as if by rote, without ornamentation or inflection.
The ryk'Korrss leaned back on the divan with a deep sigh. "I don't suppose you also bring news of any unfortunate disasters or new building projects in eastern Shie."
"I do not."
"Word from Carsepolis? Arri'Mirrani has a man there. A..." ryk'Karr began in his deep bass, but the man's name eluded him.
"Hiran Marrn, your Divinity." Hiran Marrn was a Korrssi merchant who had bought Carsepolitan citizenship a few years back, not necessarily the first to do so in the long, shared history between Carsepolis, but notable presently due to his discrete connections to the arrikan of kan'Hamran, arri'Mirrani. "And not as of yet. Nor from Taniar. I will inform you of any such word when it arrives."
"How much of the Kyoukabushiki?"
"All, or near enough as does not matter. Kihei and kobun marched along with ashigaru."
"Your associate is sure of this?" It wasn't common for ryk'Karr Korrss to doubt the word of his secretary and another man might have been offended. Serran Barri showed no such emotion and responded in the same almost monotone as always.
"Quite. A secretary must have a good head for figures."
Ryk'Karr stroked at his beard, a motion Barri recognized as one of contemplation, "Notify the stakani, especially sta'Hassan Nikarri in kan'Hamran and sta'Sakann Ressani. The arrikani as well, likewise especially arri'Lanhem Mirrani and arri'Sahan Torrni. Make preparations, assemble supplies, but do not march the staki yet. We will wait to see what, if anything, develops. Keep your associates close to this, Serran. What's next on the agenda?"

[Servoth]

"Either there are gods; spirits, beings of great awesome power, whatever, who oversees everything we do, but absolute hates us, the Orc peoples; or there are no gods. Regardless, and to put it simply, in either situation, we are fucked."

Grand Minister Jzil Grawft, "Our Place in this Time" Speech to the people of Ovfaer, Karazsnt, 1032

Off the Coast of Einokaze Shogunate, On board the Damier

Warlord Zrorft was a member of the Steel Council, a powerful military general charged with the protection and insurance of order in the Confederation of Karazsnt; he was one of only fifteen people so honorable enough, so powerful enough, so intelligent enough, so strong enough to be awarded the position of Steel Council Member. He was a champion of his nation, and he was puking his guts out as he leaned over the side of the ship.

The journey from Karazsnt to the Shogunate was comprised of two periods, first from Ovfaer (the Capital of the Confederation) to the Pavlostani Order, which was undergoing its own trials and tribulations at the moment, through the Order all the way to the coast. Second, followed by paying fare for a ship to sail from the Order to the Shogunate. It was not a journey he had taken before, nor one he was prepared for.
Normally this taken was by a professional diplomat, regularly every couple of months, to beg the Shogunate for support with the Confederation's monstrous problem to the north, and the result was usually the same: No. Though in the many attempts, the Confederation had at least fostered some regular relations with the people of Einokaze despite the distance between the two nations.
But now Zrorft had some plausible evidence to implicate the Empire of Man was plotting something most thoroughly dangerous against all nations that had significant nonhuman populations, or at least that was how Zrorft understood the situation, and with this information he could finally start an invasion into Zelbae and free his enslaved people. How far the conflict would go after that was not his concern, only that said conflict be start while Karazsnt had at least some edge against Zelbae and before said enemy launched an invasion of their own.

Zrorft pushed himself off the railing of the side of the ship, just now getting over his more recent bout of vomit. He hoped he didn't get any on his expensive and fine clothes, and he also hoped his elevated position would send a clear message to the Shogunate that this was an extremely serious matter.
His blue-gray eyes staring straight ahead at the ever closer port, he smiled a little, before doubling over as he was hit by another spell of sea sickness.

[Great Houses of Xie]

Kingdom of Korss; Narrak, kan'Rissan

"It is a pleasure that I have been able to meet with you, today, your Divinity." Yasutora Takahashi bowed deeply before sitting down on the cushion laid out for him. Having spent some years in Korss, he had figured out quickly that he needed to eat and drink before being granted audience with the ryk'Korrss. The first time was humiliating enough, since his rumbling stomach had definitely sidetracked his initial attempts at negotiation, that he remembered his lesson to this day. However, Takahashi still couldn't quite handle the women also present in the room; he found his eyes wandering, despite his best efforts.

"The Tennouheika wished that I, as his humble servant, act in his steed to discuss with the ryk'Korrss, first, before all leaders, as befitting his glorious and esteemed position as the Tennouheika's ally, the future of Carsepolis. Given its strategic position, in the interests of the safety and security of our peoples, neither the Tennouheika nor his gloriously divine ally, the ryk'Korrss, can allow the Empire of Man and its young, upstart leader, to hold sway over the city-state. It is in the Tennouheika's most humble opinion that Carsepolis be divided between the himself and the most noble, divine ryk'Korss, such that our combined allied presence may secure the eastern sea entrance. Already, the nefarious, scheming Carsepolitans have demonstrated their loyalties for the upstart Emperor by raising tariffs on our honest merchants; their greedy decision-makers, the ship captains, are being bought out by dirty Empire coin.

Now is the time to strike and secure our futures, while the weak Emperor's grip on Carsepolis remains tenuous, while the Empire's influence remains just influence and not military strength. The South shall rise again."

[Achesia]

The Swordgrove, Seat of House Avondale in the Avonhold-

Lord James Avondale wiped the smooth polishing oils along his families sword Starfyre with a cloth, stroke after stroke letting the almost milky white color of the blade shine with its own light. The sword which has been handed down for generations of Avondales was said to be forged from the burning rock from the stars which landed in their families lands back when they were nothing but landed knights serving the Achesian King. Since then Starfyre had seen hundreds of conflicts and known thousands of kills throughout many conflicts that the Hosue of Avondale has partaken in. Lord James today polished his blade with a special kind of fervor as he looked back at himself in the reflection off the blade. His eyes were bloodshot he noticed as he raised the sword up, the blade which was emblazoned on all of House Avondale's banners was a longsword of a certain ornateness. It is said that Sur Chester Avondale when he came upon the burning rock spent all of his savings and sold half his lands to have a sword forged to merit the metal. Now the Avondales sit high above more lands then they could ever dream of back in those days. Lord James pointed the sword forward as he sat down on his throne. His hall of stone and oak was cold and empty today, save a few of his advisors and closest knights. They stood and watched silently as their Lord stood up from his throne and gave Starfyre a swing.

"Tell me what he said again." He looped the blade around with a swish as he addressed his man.

"Lord Swynn states that if you do not stop the taxation on caravans passing on the Imperial road north through the Avonhold he will be forced to take action M'lord." The advisor gulped as he continued. "He states it is illegal for a Lord to tax on the Emperor's road, and you are..." The advisors voice got softer as he finished.

"Said I was?" Lord James swiped the sword and rested it on his shoulder as he turned to face him, each swipe oft he blade seemed to echo through the empty hall with only the crackles of the hearth calling back to it.

"Said you were a tomfool to believe your family should ever have a chance to be wealthy enough to cross them like this." He bowed his head, knowing his Lords rage. "He said you have a fortnight to stop this, then he will march his men up the road to deal with you himself."

Lord James smirked at this, he stood almost a head and a half taller than his advisor, and much bulkier. He ran his fingers through his corse black beard that was freckled with grey, he laughed so loudly that the advisor winced fearing that the message he brought would mean his end. But rather Lord James patted him on the shoulder and waved for his squire, a young lad named Hugh Avondale of Knightglen, a cadet branch of the main House of Avondale. The young squire took his Lord's sword and sheathed it, carrying it to the side with him as his lord continued to pace around the stone floor of his hall.

"I should only hope he is fool enough to meet us in open battle." He stared up at his families banner, Starfyre enflamed on a field of blue. The truth was that he hoped Lord Swynn would march his armies up the Imperial road to meet him, it would be just the excuse he would need to take vengeance for the slight that Lord Seamus cause him when we called off the six year long betrothal of his son Emmanuel Swynn to Lord James' daughter Cassandra. It was unheard of to cancel a betrothal, a dishonor to the bride and her family. All because Lord Swynn thinks he can marry his son to the Emperor's sister. This cut ran deeper as he did not think Lord Swynn would take this step unless he had insurances from the crown that the marriage would be made. His own son-in-law, the Emperor betrayed him like this would be a wound that would have to be settled later. But first to deal with the Swine of Swynn who had the audacity to not even give back the handsome dowery that came with this betrothal. It was almost a dare for Lord James to do something, it was as if they were egging him on to retaliate. In response just a week ago Lord James had levied a tax against all goods coming north from the Grand Duchy, this would hurt business for the Swynn's, but line Lord James' pockets. This did no however go unnoticed for long, Lord Swynn sent back a message with the Avondale advisor giving the threatening remarks about potential war to the Lord of the Avonhold.

Lord James gave a deep breath as he closed his eyes to think, it would be a hard road, but the Avondales would not take a slight like this.

"Send no reply, double the taxes."

[IshCong]

Narrak, kan'Rissan

From the divan atop a small dais, ryk'Karr Korrss studied the man before him as he spoke. Yasutora Takahashi's request for an audience wasn't particularly surprising given the news from Shie, nor was the subject matter (though it was always nice to deal with a foreigner who gave ryk'Karr his due honors). If any doubt lingered as to Shie's intentions in marching the Kyoukabushiki, this put them to rest. Considering they had marched before Yasutora's request for an audience, ryk'Karr figured it was rather likely that Shie would march on Carsepolis with or without Korrssi support. It would, after all, be rather difficult for the city-state to stand against Shie, even just the Kyoukabushiki and the border garrisons, alone.

The ryk'Korrss took a moment before responding, exhaled, and let the scene wash over him. The pluck of strings and hum of a flute from an adjoining room. The colors of the dress of the members of his court and Yasutora, all seated below on plush cushions. Most noticeable of these were some of ryk'Karr's consorts, seated throughout the room and chosen as much for their ability to entertain through song, dance, music, poetry, and conversation as for their beauty. The smell of platters of food placed strategically throughout the room, still practically untouched.

For now, ryk'Karr continued in a manner consistent with Korrssi diplomacy to date. Evaluate the Shie suggestion and refrain from making a solid commitment just yet. Unfortunately, action by Shie would force the Korrssi hand so a commitment would have to be made soon, but for the moment that wasn't necessary.
"A bold suggestion perhaps," he finally said, "considering my agreement with your emperor binds us only to respond if one or the other is attacked directly by the Empire or Imperium. Of course, your suggestion is based on merits other than these." The ryk'Korrss smiled briefly. "It is certainly true that the Empire has been investing more heavily in Carsepolis of late and perhaps gaining...undue influence there. And it is certainly true that the pain suffered by the merchants of Shie is shared by the merchants of Korrss. Merchants always do chafe at paying tolls, no matter where the tolls are." He paused briefly, reclined slightly. "Let us say, for the sake of argument, that I agree with your proposal. What would my friend, the lord and master of Shie, ask of Korrss that such a proposal as this be carried out? And how would he propose "dividing" Carsepolis, should any such thing come to pass?"

[Gunrado]

Elujan, The Kingdom of Gunrado

THEME

If it was generally known that Arubjen was the wondrous port city of Gunrado, the most populous, wealthiest locale in the kingdom, then it was also certain that Elujan, the great citadel and seat of the King, was the most holy. Its name itself meant "the place of hymns" in Gunradoamo. The ancient capital was home to the most traveled and sacred pilgrimage site of the Divine Consorts' Rite, the Holy Bedchamber, the largest, most complex cavern system in the land; it was rumored to stretch on for miles, with only certain members and castes of society allowed in specific areas, and the exact details of the entire underground habitat only known to the enigmatic witches of the Coven of the Holy Bedchamber. The entrance to the cavern lied at the center of the city, faced by the huge fortress of the Gunradoan kings of the royal House of the Thoront.

While the buildings around it were made of "swampstone", maroon, black, tan, white, and brown stones caked with dirt, moss and weeds and taken directly from the bottoms of the marshlands and swamps of Gunrado, the cave entrance itself seemed different, elaborately carved and painted with the various myths and symbols of the Gunradoan faith, while also being quite overgrown with willows and reeds. It was much, much older than anything around it. It was primal and primeval, ancient, with an aura of its own- an aura that tingled the hairs on one's back. It was in this cave that the Divine Consorts Gunront and Andalo made love, and it was in this cave where the goddess Andalo resurrected her lover after his death from the Ills of the Primordial Chaos.

If you trusted the faith of the Gunradoan people and the commentaries on the mystical texts of the Divine Consorts' Rite, this is also where the founder of the House of the Thoront, Thoroun the Plague Prince, was resurrected by his own consort- to rule as a pale corpse-king, some saying to fulfill his destiny as an incarnation of Gunront. If you considered yourself a learned man and disregarded the murmur of the religious, the likes of an Imperial clergyman or a scholar of Dai-Shie, then you might've agree, then, at least, that this is where Thoroun emerged after the Great Plague of the fourth eon to successfully rebel against the harsh House of the Obelin, where he built his great stronghold, where he reigned with hair and garments dyed white except for the dark makeup around his eyes, the marker of his infamous stare. The House of the Thoront had ruled those centuries ever since, but pilgrims had been making the often perilous journey through the swamplands to this mysterious cave far, far before then.

A woman now bathed in its dark crevices. The room she dwelt in was small and lit only by a few candles, lower than the natural, more open halls the commoners conducted rituals, sacrifices, and general worship in. She lounged in an ornate bath next to a pool of black water; in its ripples, pure white catfish slowly swam about, blind. She was in her forties, but still very much resembled the great beauty she was when she was in her prime. The Queen-consort of Gunrado was no fool. She knew the power a beautiful woman had over kings and paupers alike, and she had wielded it all her life.

Next to her, another woman about her age who had chosen a different path knelt. She carefully made a small fire, gathering twigs and brush, slowly blowing on the sparks. She dressed in garments made from reeds, with raven feathers in her stark white hair. Though many of the other witches of the coven wore blindfolds, she did not.

"Are you ready, my queen?"

"Of course," Queen-consort Elano replied calmly, luxuriating. The witch, with an unnatural speed, snatched a catfish from the waters with a flurry and carefully let the large creature into the bath. She then glanced to a small, decorated chest near the bath and gathered three different colored vials from an assortment. She took the first, a little blue bottle, and poured it into the bath, whose waters suddenly began to smoke and sputter. The Queen restrained her self as the water seemed to ever so slightly singe her skin.

The witch and the queen both recited simultaneously, "Eluja Andalo, rojo eljan viben." (Hail Andalo, queen of life.)

In went the wider green flask, the water calmed, and almost seemed to solidify as it turned as black as the cave pool beside them. The queen shivered as she recited with the witch, "Eluja Andalo, rojo eljan fortunem." (Hail Andalo, queen of fortune.)

The fire was roaring now. The witch finally poured the red vial in the bath, making the waters calm and glowing a bright white, the color of milk. The queen smiled with pleasure as the waters soothed her. With a hint of bliss in her voice, her and the witch said more assuredly, "Andalo, Andalo, deamo dameno eljan ejue, desei yejue amoj yej arei com fidens." (Andalo, Andalo, dear lady of mine, tell your husband you are with friends.)

The queen relaxed and reached into her bath, gathering the bleached, bare skeleton of the catfish from the waters and handing it to the witch, who threw it on the fire. She closed her eyes and spoke aloud, half to herself. "Nothing on this earth refreshes the body quite like a Purity Bath."

"It refreshes the soul as well," the wild priestess looked up from the fire and said with a smile, "The women of this land stay beautiful well beyond others for a reason. Body and soul, body and soul, your majesty. Careful attention to both is what leads one to the Bliss of the Consorts."

"I know it well," the queen said with a smirk. The two women shared a giggle before the witch returned her eyes once again to the fire, concentrated on the bones, which she then withdrew and placed on a silver platter. The queen grew more serious, her willful, fiery nature seeming to crack through her current calmer state. "What do you see?" she said imperiously.

The witch raised an eyebrow, apparently surprised by what she saw in the embers and markings of the bones. "I see a great man and a beautiful young woman, erhm…"

"I could've seen that in any brothel in the kingdom," the queen cracked.

"There's more," the pale witch continued, "they're changing. The girl has morphed into a hand, the man an eagle. The hand grasps the eagle's talon as it fights off a great sword."

She waved the queen to look over, whispering, "Do you see? Ah, do you see?"

Elano's eyes widened. "I do," she said, staring. "I do."

---

High Requient, Imperium of the Empire of Man

Cheers erupted throughout the quarters of the Gunradoan delegation of the imperial palace. Retinues to the Purple Prince, the Princess' ladies-in-waiting, servants and grooms alike, all shouted "Elujan!", "Gunrado!" and "Only the Dead!" and whistled as the Prince Gurren and his sister arrived directly from the tournament, the prince's brow still beaded with sweat as he smiled and the goosebumps on the ecstatic princess' bosom still visible as she nodded to their company with composure and grace.

They quickly entered the salon of their rooms, where they both looked at each other with a smug satisfaction. "You jousted bravely, dear brother." Two squires quickly began to take off the young prince's armor and set before him water, fruits, and a selection of clothing.

"I always do, fair sister," Gurren playfully boasted, "and you yourself earned the envy of every woman in the empire when they saw Titus look at you like that. Very soon, I'll bet, they will stop singing songs of our mother's beauty for songs of yours. I'll still be just as uncomfortable with it."

"Lest you forget yourself, we both have Gunradoan looks," Yillo said, "There aren't enough melodies in this world."

They both chuckled heartily. It was true that the House of the Thoront were an attractive lot. They all had the alabaster skin, "eel eyes" and full red lips (often a point of derision towards the men from men of other lands) of their people, and the two older siblings had similar light brown hair slightly colored with hints of auburn from their mother's side. Gurren's eyes were a dark hazel, while Yillo's a shimmering gold that stunned all who beheld her. Their father had stark black hair and plain features, but their mother was a famous beauty in her day, with fiery red locks and emerald eyes. The siblings' youngest brother Jaun looked like their mother turned boy, a common torment from their childhood they still used against him.

The siblings' banter was interrupted by the arrival of a messenger who urgently delivered a letter to them as well as a message from the emperor himself to seek him out in the Tower of Ascendency. The two looked at each other humorlessly. An audience with the emperor, with them so soon at court? It was strange, and a bit intimidating. But both sensed it was good news-their fortunes and status at court, within one afternoon, had improved immensely.

Yillo took the letter, dismissed the servant, and quickly recognized the seal of her own house stamped in black wax, an armored hand emerging from rippling waters. They both glanced at each other and said it at the same time.

"Mother."

Dearest Children,

The Divine Consorts have given us a vision in the bones. Now is the time to act.

Yillo, I have complete faith in your abilities; I see myself in you. Remember the skills I have taught you. You must be the rose and the thorn, the doe and the lioness. Do not fall for your own masquerade. Make me proud, my brazen little girl, and perhaps when you return I shall not only call you woman, but Empress.

Gurren, find a way to draw attention to your sister so that our plans may finally enact. Do not only protect your sister's person; protect her dignity as well. Jaun may have gotten my looks, but you have inherited my cunning-but don't let it get to your head, my darling, arrogant knave.

It is a dangerous game we play. Beware the Avondales. Never let your guard down, and do not be embarrassed to flatter and soothe them. You will feel one thing and must say another. But do not be afraid of them, and do not let them intimidate you-they know who your father is, who your mother is, and I'm sure they'll see soon you too are a force not to be reckoned with.

I love you both so much. Write as soon as you can.

Your Loving Mother,
Elano of the Thoront, Queen-consort of Gunrado

Gurren looked up after reading. "Well, that tourney certainly drew attention. I need to shave-have a servant fetch my barber. We must look our best, you especially."

He grabbed his sister's shoulders, "We shall make our family's fortune's soar starting this evening. Prepare yourself."

[Great Houses of Xie]

Kingdom of Korss; Narrak, kan'Rissan

Without missing a beat, Takahashi replies, "Recognizing his Divinity's greatness, the Tennouheika thought it fitting that the noble ryk'Korss have the southern islands and continental lands of Carsepolis under his Divinity's wise dominion. As for what the Tennouheika hopes his trusted friend and ally would contribute, as the divine, all-knowing ryk'Korss is aware, the naval forces of the Tennouheika are a recent development; untested in battle, the Tennouheika is wary of committing significant naval troops to a campaign on the southern continent. Acknowledging that this is beyond the terms of the alliance, yet stressing the uniquely opportune situation in the face of disastrously increasing involvement by the nefarious Empire, the Tennouheika humbly asks of his noble, trusted ally, the ryk'Korss, to contribute to the campaign by committing his brave, loyal soldiers to securing the treacherous Carsepolitans' southern continental and island territories."

At the end of his piece, Takahashi bows, while still sitting down.

[Dbrought]

Fenrisport, Kingdom of Zelbae

Prince Lucien Norcross surveyed the bustling of workers, soldiers, sailors and slaves making haste to fully load his father's navy. It had been nearly a week since the rumors had been confirmed that the Empire wished to back the coming campaign by his kingdoms agents. A week of collecting, loading, and sharpening the troops and supplies into the ships that would land on the Pavlostani Order's coast. Lord Norcoss himself, would lead the main Zelbaen army from his ships being loaded at Sarisport, while Lucien, his first son led the vanguard raids on the Pavlostani shores.

"The weather and signs are in our favor my prince." Eddardric, Lucien's adviser relayed after looking into the patterns the spilled blood had left on the altar in Lucien's personal chambers. "With what our captains have reported we should be loaded and able to send our new breed of soldiers on their mission, with the last tides of this day."

The sacrifice on the altar moaned and sputtered as Eddaric took another slice into his leg, further flaying the skin back. It no longer had any on either of its arms left. "And we are sure they are ready?"

Lucien did not even gaze back at his adviser's work. His pleasure came form the finishing touches. When all the skin from the limbs were gone. "Yes my prince. The pit captains are certain of our pet's complete loyalty, and our slave solider captains have shown great promise. At last, your vision is nearly complete."

"Then it has begun. Inform the rest of my captains that we depart in three days. We will ride the wave of confusion or orc slave soldiers bring on Pavlostani's north borders. Use to further burn fear into the hearts of these dwarves and pave the way form my father's army." Lucien lips drew into a cold smile. "dwarf hearts. now that is a delicacy I haven't tasted in a long time."

[IshCong]

If an enemy crosses your path, the response is usually simple and direct. What, then does one do when one's path is crossed by a friend? The answers are rarely so simple and the actions likewise.

Narrak, kan'Rissan

"It is...possible to fulfill the Tennouheika's request." ryk'Karr Korrss chose his words carefully. Walking the line of neutrality in a political climate such as this required a great deal of discretion. It had been a line walked by Korrss for a long time, and it was a line ryk'Karr had become rather accustomed to walking. Granted, that line was probably going to be denied him in the very near future, at least temporarily, possibly far longer. "Nor do I immediately find issue with dividing Carsepolis along the proposed lines, broad though they may be, should Carsepolis come to be divided and should Korrss have a part in such an action. I am sure the specifics can be agreed upon at a later date, if required."

"However," the ryk'Korrss leaned back in anew, "there remains the question of which action Korrss should take, if any. Carsepolis has hardly needed Imperial encouragement to exact tolls from our merchants in the past. Why then, should we assume this is solely a product of Imperial influence in Carsepolis? And, if Carsepolis is so influenced by the Empire, why should they not protect their investments? Would not a war upon Carsepolis invite Imperial military intervention in the Cut? This is against our own desires and surely my friend, the Tennouheika Shie's, as well. Not only Imperial intervention, either. Tani and Tomekian interests may well demand their intervention in this war of yours, and while the former may be benign enough, the latter are rather cause for concern."

[Dbrought]

High Requient, Imperium of the Empire of Man

The roaring cries of the jousting tourney's conclusion was the signal to the champions of the battle royal, that their matches were soon to begin. Garret Faulkner ran the grindstone against the last of his axes. The last few hours he had spent dutifully sharpening every inch of his blades, while his appointed squire shined and polished his armor, fixing any flaw. Garret was not a knight. He was the oldest son to the houndmaster of Lord Norcross. Still it had been Garret that the Norcross choose to represent them in this tourney. Knights and chivalry after all, was not what Zelbae was known for. Pulling it from the grindstone Garret poured more oil on the edge from a vial and went to work at the last bit with his leather and small whetstone. His blades were sharp. Two hatchets, a long dagger, hunting knife, and battleaxe all sharpened to a razor's edge. He turned to his squire and nodded for him to start handing him the armor pieces to wear and the tourney blunted weapons. Garret's greatest weapons whined at his feet. His hounds knew when their master was about to bash in his enemies and hungered to taste his prey.

A pity they don't let me use you.

The drums began to sound. The other knights and warriors trekked in one by one. Garret took his hunting knife and ran a short shallow cut against his chest.

Perfectly sharp.

[Vozt Yurkova]

"It's not the sharks you can see that should concern you, but the ones you can't." - Myrosi proverb

Carsepolis, Captain's Hall

There was a palpable sense of urgency in the Captain's Hall. Less than half of the fleet had been able to attend on such short notice, with the rest on patrol or adventure, yet the clamour they summoned between them would fool any man into thinking every captain and more were present.

Their attentions were directed not too far from where Argus was standing. As the chosen man of the Grand Admiral, it was his duty to assume a place on the central dais next to the leader of the fleet. Temor Vanci was a man nearing fifty, clean shaven and with streaks of grey in his otherwise pitch black hair. His skin was a shade lighter than many Myrosi, but still of a bronze tone. There was a hawkish intelligence in his golden eyes that bordered on the predatory, yet he had a smile which was confident and welcoming. The finely decorated staff he carried with him was not to aid his walking, but a symbol of his office.

Of perhaps more interest than the Grand Admiral was the man opposite him. Mortikas Lykadeimos. A monster of a man, he was two heads taller than most and broad enough to match, equalling Temor's height even with the Admiral standing on the dais. He wore golden rings in his ears, and tied his long beard with a golden band. His shaven head revealed a scar running from atop his skull to his cheekbone. When he spoke, it was always with bile. He reminded Argus somewhat of a rabid bear, constantly foaming at the mouth.

It was neither of these two men, however, that were the focus of the captains' concerns. No, what had really disquieted them was the figure kneeling next to Mortikas, bound and gagged and bloody.

Temor raised a fist in the air. “I'll have silence. You'll all have opportunity to voice your concerns soon enough.” The raucous descended into a quiet rumble before dissipating altogether. “Mortikas, who do you bring before us, and why?”

The monster licked his lips. “Some nameless Tani merchant. Caught the little arsehole trying to dodge the toll. His wares were dog shit, but they've been taken to our stores nonetheless. His crew have been taken to the City of Chains to be sold as galley slaves. Now I'll let the conclave decide what the fucker's punishment should be.”

The din began to rise once more. Temor hammered his staff against the dais, and cut the racket short. “It seems you'd already decided that yourself. You seized the man's assets before seeking counsel?”

“He sailed our waters without paying us tribute. What was I supposed to do, slap his fucking wrist?”

“You weren't wrong to bring him back to port. You were wrong to seize his assets and enslave his men before a settlement could be agreed.”

“I piss on your fucking settlements.” The brute delivered a swift kick to the Tani's midriff, and roared into the merchant's ear. “How's that for a settlement you fucking dog?” He looked back to Temor. “These Tani cunts have spit on us for generations. They conspire with our neighbours, painting us as pirates. We saved them from the fucking pirates! All we ask is for is a little coin to help us keep the waters safe, but that's just too much for them isn't it?”

“Do you suppose,” Temor began, taking a step forward, “that we'll ever stop being viewed as pirates if our justice is to capture ships and sell men into slavery?”

“I'll tell you what I fucking suppose, Temor.” Mortikas spoke to the room now. “Any of you men can walk the markets and all you'll hear is complaints about how unfair our tolls are. I suppose that they've forgotten what it's like to fear for their safety. I suppose that they think they have a right to pass through our waters unharmed. I suppose that if we reminded them what it was like in the old days, they'd soon come begging us to take their fucking coin.”

The response to Mortikas unsettled Argus. There were at least as many roars of approval as jeers and taunts. Once more, Temor hammered his staff against the dais. This time, it took longer for the captains to fall silent.

“That is a debate for another day. One that I hope I'll never live to see. Let us focus on the immediate issue.” the admiral looked to Argus. “Unbind our guest. Let us hear what he has to say.”

Argus stepped down from the dais and approached the prisoner. He glanced up at Mortikas. The giant was fixing him with an icy glare. Looking back to the prisoner, Argus drew his dirk. A huge hand clamped onto his wrist, and there was a whisper in his ear.

“There's a storm coming, Argus. I don't think you'll want to get caught in it.” The hand let go. Argus deftly sliced the binds from the Tani's wrists, and pulled out the gag from his mouth.

“Speak, merchant.”

[Great Houses of Xie]

Kingdom of Korss; Narrak, kan'Rissan

Takahashi again bows after the ryk'Korss finishes speaking.

"As befitting of his acclaimed wisdom, the noble ryk'Korss poses some excellent questions and critiques. Certainly, the increasing Imperial influence has hardly been necessary to convince the Carsepolitans to raise the tolls; to believe that the nefarious Imperial influence is driving up the tolls may, indeed, be quite the assumption making an ass of you and me.

And, indeed, a war with greedy Carsepolis would, in all likelihood, draw in the belligerent Empire. Yet, to war, both the Tennouheika and his most divine and noble ally, the ryk'Korss, must go. Allowing the meddling Empire to solidify its control over a weak, puppet Carsepolis allows the Empire to dominate an entire entrance to the Cut. Dominance of the entrance casts the Empire's sphere of influence over the entirety of the Cut, including those who would wish to remain neutral, such as yourself, wise Divinity.

Allowing the belligerent Empire control of Carsepolis will embolden its weakling Emperor. If the pup Emperor realizes that he is able to take control of faraway lands, such as greedy Carsepolis, what is to stop it from dominating the closer, weaker, entrance to the Cut? How much of the Cut would be lost to the nefarious Empire before the noble Divinity would begin to resist the Empire's greatly strengthened influence?

Wherefore, to put an end to the weakling Emperor's presence and to put him in his place, both the Tennouheika and his glorious, noble ally, the ryk'Korss, must demonstrate a united front and secure the Cut's independence from the pup Emperor's and xenophobic Imperium's grasps. Only a united Cut may be able to resist the otherwise powerful influences of the Empire and Imperium; the first step towards unification lies with Carsepolis. For only when Carsepolis has been secured by the Tennouheika and his powerful, wise ally, the ryk'Korss, from the Empire's malevolent clutches, may the South rise. War is on the horizon; now, it will be on his wise Divinity's terms and not on the Empire's terms." Takahashi bows again, then pours himself some water to drink.

[The Holy Dominion of Inesea]

Saishonotokei, Gōrudenkōsuto, Einokaze Shogunate

Located on the isthmus between northern and southern halves of the country on the Korudo Bay, Saishonotokei was a bustling port city. The docks themselves handled everything from small fishing trawlers to a huge trade hulk and massive war galley. Sailors and seamen and porters bustled to and from, with fishmongers harking their wares. It was here that Daijin Kitano Koetsu waited for Zrorft, the Confederation Ambassador. Surrounding Koetsu were thirty Senshi in ceremonial gold washed armor. Their helmets bore the faces of yokai, demons said to haunt their dead enemies souls. Each man held a long Naginata, sharp steel blades gleaning in the sun. A pickpocket had tried to nab the kamikatana from one of the Senshi. His hand lay on the street.

The Confederation ship pulled into the berth. After some docking preparations, a ramp was run up to the ship and the disembarking began. Daijin Koetsu stepped forward and bowed. Behind him, the Senshi did so as well. Straightening, he called out, "Welcome, Warlord Zrorft, to the Shogunate."

OOC: A little short but eh. Daijin is the title
Kurisutaru, Midorushima, Einokaze Shogunate

A thousand Ashigaru, a hundred Goncho's, and ten Chui's and a Taisa formed the 5th Northern Support Group. It was larger than normal, but not overly so. The Northern Support groups were annual units sent north to either the Order or hinterlands to clear out brigands and provide security. Usually, half went to the Order and half cleared out bandits between the nations. This year was probably going to be the same. Probably a few more to the hinterlands as news was a new halfling warlord had established them there. Shinji already knew his Buntai was headed to the Order, to replace the Einokaze Embassy Guard there. A rather pleasent posting they would be sharing with another Buntai commanded by his friend Ban Shirai. They would be boarding ships heading to the Order soon enough. A Yellow Banner unfurled. Shinji turned to his Buntai and said, "Make sure your armor is on correctly. If any of you have a loose karuta or kabuto, I wear on my Ancestors' Grave, I will thrown you overboard." A Green Banner unfurled and the men moved onto the ships. Some were bound for the Order, to rotate out with some of the 400 soldiers usually stationed there. Most were headed to the hinterlands, to clear out the trade routes and bolster outposts.

Kaminomon, Hātoairando, Einokaze Shogunate


The Cavern of the Ancestors functioned as the Palace for the Shogun. Once an underground cave formation, it had been hollowed out over the centuries into one room. It had served as the ancestral village of the Eino-kanka, the ancestor tribe of the Shogunate. Now it served as the Throne Room to the Jinsei Shoguns. Jade columns and golden decor lined the marble walls. Emeralds and Rubies studded the columns. Two dozen Imperial Guardsmen clad in full gold dusted traditional armor stood solo by each column. On a dais in the center-back. On it were three seats. One, made of stone and with a cushion. The ones of the left and right of mahogany and silver. On the center stone chair sat the Shogun, Jinsei Hayato. On the left chair sat his daughter, the Himedinka, Hinako. Hinako often sat in on her father's meeting, listening with care to what was discussed. Unlike other races, the Dwarves were gender equal and Hinako was poised to inherit the throne. On the right sat Daijiin Nguyen, the Chancellor of the Shogunate. At the foot of the dais stood three men from the Northern Provinces. They had been asking for increased troops to defend the northern border from Rogue Clans. The Shogun instead had offered to pay for the training of 2,000 new Ashigaru. The men were not happy, but they accepted this.

Hinako turned to her father as the men left and said, "Father, why do you not dispatch some Heishi or Ashigaru to defend the northern border? Or why not just stamp out the Rock Hill Clan? There are 10,000 Heishi in Hātoairando alone. We are safe here."

Nguyen replied first. "Himedinka, that would be but a temporary solution. After the Rock Hill Clan was defeated, the Boulder Bears or Southern Josoun Clans would move in. By creating more Ashigaru locally, there is a permanent defense force. And the Ashigaru, when not fighting, will be building and maintaining roads and outposts. It is more profitable this way."

Hayato added, "Hinako, the Heishi and Ashigaru here are needed here to protect the Hātoairando. And, the Free Clans are acting up again all over. I have been sending more units than normal to pacify the region. And the Empire constantly threatens our shores. We simply need more soldiers."

Hinako then said, "But our vassals and allied Clans control the trade routes between us. However, they are more mercantile and not quite able to protect the routes. With the clans like the Boulder Bears and Western Josoun allying, the Jade Cities Alliance has asked for some 5,000 troops to bolster the entire route. Perhaps, since we are sending the troops already, we send another 5,000 to wipe out and establish forts farther into the Clan Lands?"

Nguyen said, "That's not exactly a bad idea. We could send some Daitai from the central provinces. Say 4,000 further reinforced with 3,000 from Hātoairando? All Heishi at first, with some 2,000 Ashigaru replacing 2,000 Heishi for building Outposts and Border Forts? And 500 Cavalry Archers from the Senshi? With the 5,000 troops bolstering the Jade Cities, and 750 troops coming south from the Order, and 2,000 being raised in the Northern Provinces, we will be able to overpower most of the Rogue Clans. I approve of it. We can focus on the Josoun and Boulders, and then hit the Rocks."

Hayat said, " I agree. Good idea, Hinako."

[IshCong]

Narrak, kan'Rissan

Ryk'Karr Korrss reclined once more, nodding thoughtfully at Takahashi's answers. The conversation continued for a while longer, but it was clear that the meeting had functionally concluded and all that remained was to politely dismiss Takahashi. Finally, ryk'Karr was satisfied, "Very well. The Tennouheika's proposal will be considered and discussed in council and our course of action will be set. We will meet with you again in a few days so that we might inform the Tennouheika's representative of our decision." Takahashi departed amid honorifics, and the day's business continued.

[Achesia]

Tower of Ascendancy, High Requiem-

The Imperial study was a small quiet room just adjacent to the Emperor's bedchambers in the tower of ascendancy. All four walls were made of cold stone with only one featuring any sort of window, which overlooked the harbor of the capital city bellow. The dark night made the waters look almost like a sea of oil just swishing around the stone palisades and ramparts that guarded the city from the sea. A large "L" shaped desk made of oak sat in the corner of the study bellow several fixtures that held drooping wax candles. Books, parchments, scrolls, and maps all cluttered the oak surface as the Emperor sat holding his head with his hands, staring at the blank wall in-front of him. Soon a light tap came on the large door that separated the study from the main hall.

"Enter." He said as he took in a breath. He moved in his seat to face the door, as the light flooded in from the brightly lit corridor he put on his best face, brushing a bit of dust from the old room off his clothes that he had yet to change from the tourney.

A armored clad knight stepped partially over the threshold of the study, his armor black as the oil sea bellow them with a golden dragon emblazoned on his chest plate flickered with the candlelight. His face was covered with his helm and cowl that knights of his order wore, the muffle sound of his voice through the cloth announced the coming of a lord and lady of noble birth. The Emperor turned fully in his seat with much anticipation to meet two of the newer members of court. Earlier in the evening his uncle had been surprised that he had taken such interest in courtly intrigue as to invite these two new members to his study. But surely the young Emperor had other motives, the young Princess of Thoront, who's beauty had caught his eye at the event earlier in that day. As they were ushered in he beckoned them to two chairs that sat opposite the room of him. When they found their seat he beckoned his guard leave.

"Thank you for answered my summons, I am very pleased to have members of House Thoront at court, it has been too long." He looked over the prince, a strong lad, warriors spirit. And then at the Princess, her eyes, god her eyes were something to die for, and that was not to speak for her bosom. Something his young wife lacked. "Please, tell me about yourselves, and tell me of your Kingdom and how it fairs. Do the summers last long there?"

Kingdom of Korss; Narrak, kan'Rissan-

It had been a long and inpatient wait to see the Ryk'Karr, the cushions here also did not suit Lord Peter Marzell well. But as the Emperor's chosen ambassador to Korss he hid the pain in his tush internally, bearing the wait with dignity. It was not long before the guards to the Ryk'Karr beckoned tot he Lord that it was his turn to visit with their ruler. The Lord stood up straight, one hand on a sealed scroll and the other on the pommel of his sword. His garb was a rich green with two clasps on either shoulder fashioned in the sigil of his house, the white sun with the face of a lion. They held a thick pelt of a cape that scraped along the floor as the aged man walked into the Ryk'Karr's chambers. He had a deal of hair for a man of his years, but the time did not forget to claim its color. He bore a scar on his face from back when he was but a knight in his father's service, during a short war with a rival house. His stern face was one of much political and military experience, his eyes bore all of the tales in their dark glimmer. As he approached the dais he bowed and announced himself in all the formalities of the Kingdom, introducing himself as the Imperial Ambassador sent at the special behest of the Emperor himself.

"I have come far your majesty on business of much importance. And renew young confidence in the Empire's interest in this region." He shifted his eyes to look at the other members of the court. Any one of them could be bought by the enemy, someone to repeat all the words he was about to say. But it was not secret the Empire needed to keep its relations with the Kingdom of Korss, even thought the Emperor ranted to Lord Marzell before his departure about the dishonor he felt bowing and scraping to a fledgling Kingdom such as Korss, he was the Emperor of Man after all, a fact the young ruler never ceased to repeat. Lord Marzell had advised him the best course of action was still to maintain good terms with these smaller nations, not matter their insignificance. The Emperor bit the air at that, he threatened to burn the unbowing shit piles of the world to the ground with his dragons and armies. Lord Marzell had bowed and reasoned for what seemed like hours, and finally the Emperor did in the end agree to let him speak with the Ryk'Karr.

"My master wishes you good health and prosperity to your people. We hope to continue our trade that our two nations conduct and have conducted for years. An Empire invested in this region is good for everyone, we only wish to see every man prosper and gain riches. Our interest is for the continued commerce between Korss and the Empire, and we hope that would continue." Lord Marzell handed the letter he had been holding in his hand to the servant of the Ryk'Karr for the Ryk'Karr to see. It was sealed in violet with a bird center in the wax, the seal of the Emperor. "This is a letter from the Emperor himself outlining some continued and increased trade areas he wishes to see with Korss for this day and many coming days."

[The JVP]

Port city of Refdus, Zarhad.

The sun was high in the air as Mayael walked the packed streets of the markets. She was am elvish woman of height, six eleven to be exacted. Her light honey brown hair was in long dreads that she kept in pony except for two on each side that she wore loose. He slender olive colored frame was a sight for the many men that visited the market that day. So looked over her long slender frame, others at a Northern elf so far south, and some looked at the outfit she wore. The light leather tunic, fitted with rows of light elven forged bronze that covered her bosom, hips shoulders, and the boots she wore, complete with a set of elven Kukri blades on her side. This was the outfit of the Elvish Ranger Legion. A group of highly trained Elves that took on special military missions for the Legion. Be it sniffing out spies, or stopping raids on the high seas. The Ranger Legion was always first to be called.

Mayael did not to much mind the looks she was receiving, even from her southern elven kin. She knew it rare for her kind to be this far south, and she took it with a smile on her face, even when a young boy ran up to her, craning his head to speak. "oaauri irrdv oa auoallhriau?" He asked and he returned his head to normal and stepped back so he could look at her with out hurting his neck. "irrrirr. favll li a'vrrll fari hdlillh." She smiled and walked past the boy, who turned and watched her watch away. Mayael did not have time to waste, she had to be at the Sky Knights compound at the Harbor in a few.

Mayael found herself in front of a large building just off the harbor. It was built in a square ship with the building forming an open square in the center. This is wre she was greeted by an Alco Raptor, a large bird like creature that the legion used as carriers for the Sky Knights. The Alco Raptor turned its head towards Mayael so it could look at her with one of it large eyes. It's made a low clicking noise and the feathers around its neck raised up as it pushed it heads into Mayaels hands to be petted. "Sir Peck." She sad to the Bird in Common. "" I see that you are just as playful as ever... Our horny. I can never tell with you." She smoothed out the feathers around his neck and listened to him give a soft clicking sound.

"Ah, Mayael. I see you have made it her safely." Came the voice of a human male. He was a foot shorter than Mayael, but he wore armor almost like hers. "We were just about to go on patrol here in a few." He looked over to three other's like him, each prepping their Alco Raptors for patrol. "Command said you would not be here for another couple of days, so your friends have been sent out on a short pirate hunt and kill." The man spoke to her in the common tongue, something many legion personal did, as regional dialects could make it hard for others to understand.

"That is fine Miar. I planned to check in early and take sight of the town. Is my barracks room ready?" She said, still petting Sir Peck. "Ye.... Yes, yes it is. Been ready for a week. Your bed is the one with the covers and stuff on it." Mair said as he walked over and began to strap down his equipment. Arrows, bow, sword, and bombs, were all put in their right saddle bags and strapped shut. "We'll be back before dark, but don't wait on us. We'll meet in the morning." He lifted himself into the saddle and looked to the others. "Just looking over the coastline to the south today." He looked to Mayael. "See you around." He said as Sir Pecks gave a loud scream and he lightly pushed Mayael back. He unfolded his large wings and with three mighty flaps, he was airborne. The others followed, and Mayael watched as they circled over the building before heading out to see.

Once they were out of her sight, she turned and reentered the build. It did not take her long to find her bed, and even shorter to get it set up. She placed her armor and weapons next to the bed, and laid down. She was out as soon as he head hit the pillow.

[Inoroth]

Carsepolis, Captain's Hall

Galdino Minicozzi was only half-conscious as he was dragged to the center of a hall filled with more of these unruly sods and roughly forced to kneel before them. The jolt sent a surge of fiery pain through his aching, aging flesh, a fire that the cool stone floor only slightly assuaged. He looked around, dazed and confused at these barbarians that jeered and taunted him. His head throbbed, his body screamed in pain, and he was fairly certain they had broken at least a rib or two. Above him towered his captor, that cruel giant of a man Mortikas.

'Fool,'

Thought Galdino as he became less disorientated,

'As though a beating would cause Alments to magically appear -- he would find as many coins if he had crushed boulders to powder using only his thick skull.'

Less groggy now, he was better able to take in his surroundings. An older man, more civilized in attire and attitude and seemingly in charge, stood stone-faced and still on a raised dais in the center of the room, attended by a younger man who also seemed less barbaric. Their leader held his clenched fist above the others, and almost immediately there was silence. Galdino noticed that, though this man seemed quite intelligent and in youth was almost certainly strong, in his old age he now leaned a fair bit on his ceremonial staff.

When asked to account for his actions, Mortikas spewed a web of lies and calculated poisonous hate about the events of earlier that day, claiming that Galdino had attempted to avoid the tolls -- a complete fabrication, as he had already paid the tolls once to another ship -- and how all of his goods had been keelhauled and stolen… but when Galdino heard that his entire crew were to become galley slaves, he turned white and nearly vomited into his gag. His eldest son had been with him on this voyage, learning the trade, and now he was to waste away to exhaustion in some godforsaken Carsepolis hellhole -- it was too much to bear.

Galdino crumpled into a ball as the two continued, now only half listening. He was snapped back into reality when the brutes' boot unexpectedly smashed into his side.

'Now he's definitely broken something'

His revulsion at what Mortikas had done turned to anger as that dog listed off what he viewed as the sins of the Tani and the world at large, as though thoroughly ruining Galdino the merchant and completely crushing Galdino the father had not been enough. He chaffed under his bonds, and expectantly awaited the opportunity to lash out at the stone-brained imbecile who had dared to bring his life crashing down -- he, GALDINO MINICOZZI, would have none of it!

His surge in emotion matched the energy in the crowd, as they roared loudly in support or opposition to the words of Mortikas, the unrest rising until Temor, the leader, loudly struck the floor with his staff, the echoes bouncing off the stone walls, and eventually (though with some rebellious protest) the men assembled were again silent.

The young attendant was ordered to loose him, and just as the lad was about to free Galdino, the giant whispered something into his ear, something Galdino couldn't make out. A deft slash and quick pull, and the gag was finally out of his mouth, the bonds that had tied his wrists lay in pieces on the floor. He rose, struggling, to his feet -- he would not grovel before these swine, especially his captor. Turning so as to face the Grand Admiral and as much of the crowd as he could, he bowed stiffly towards the dias:

"My lord, my name is Galdino Minicozzi, of the House of Fornos, and long have I plied the routes between Taniar and the Imperium, passing hundreds of times through your waters, and ever paying the tolls levied against me and my fellow merchants -- as high and trying as they might be."

The crowd began to murmur again, but the stern gaze of the Grand Admiral checked them. the Grand Admiral then turned to Galdino, encouraging him to continue.

"This voyage was no different, I set out from the Haven of Ci-Valornia in Taniar with a cargo of seventy-two barrels of scented oils and five-hundred rare birds and exotic animals for the Imperium; luxuries they pay dearly for. But these goods are quite expensive even in my own lands, and I sold all I had to pay for this shipment AND the heavy tolls levied here in Carsepolis -- I did not have any money to spare."

"I brought my eldest son along with me, so he could learn the trade of a merchant and one day carry on my legacy. This trip was to have greatly enriched us, but alas it has only brought ruin… we came across the toll-ship Clarion not far from Carepolis' waters, where the toll was paid in full. I had thought then that our worries were over, for the skies promised fine weather and the Imperium was not far off, but then we were stopped and boarded by The Reckoning, captained by this cur Mortikas"

Here the Tani pointed behind him, as well as his injuries would allow.

"We were told that our due tolls had not been paid, and that now an additional charge was to be levied as a penalty. I explained that we had already paid the toll to the Clarion, but this man would hear nothing of it and continued to demand payment, growing increasingly irate. I shouted that I only had about fifteen Alments, enough to pay for the first nights berth in the Imperium, but he only scoffed and said 'a Tani always has more money hidden away, if you know where to look.' He ordered his crew to restrain us, and we were far too outnumbered to resist. Mortikas ransacked my quarters, destroying anything of value in his search for coin. He then raided the crew's quarters, but turned up only another thirty Alments or so from their personal stores."

"He then beat us; myself, my son, and my crew, trying to convince us to reveal where the money was hidden -- only there was no more money on board, for I have already told you I spread myself thin to pay for this voyage. When no one would tell him (for there was nothing to tell), Mortikas must have reasoned that we had hidden the money in our cargo, so he proceeded to smash one barrel of oil after another, each time demanding to know where the money was… I pleaded with him to just take some of our cargo and allow us to leave in peace, but he wanted gold and nothing else."

The merchant paused for breath, turning his reddening face towards the floor for a moment, collecting his increasingly emotional thoughts. He looked back up, fists clenched in rage and sorrow:

"Once this buffoon had completely ruined the oil barrels -- tens of thousands of Alments worth of scented oil spilled into the seas -- he even gutted a few of our larger animals, thinking perhaps we had made them swallow our money to hide it, such was his desperation for money in infortitude of wit. This brute has confiscated my ship, stolen whatever he did not already destroy of my cargo, harshly and unjustly beaten fifteen men including myself, has sold my crew and my… my son… into s-s-s-lavery *sniff*… and now has dared to lie horribly to all gathered here, cursing the name of my people and shaming the honor of yours by his actions! I DEMAND justice, my lord, and I DEMAND recompense! I have lost nearly a hundred thousand Alments, not to mention the injuries and indignities sustained by my men and I. This money and more I expect to be paid by Mortikas in full, and if this, this traitor to your lands, this scourge of honest trade and predator of the weak, this dark-hearted savage barbarian, this criminal pirate and loathsome wretch should be unable to pay me in full and at once, then let him and his contemptuous crew be made into galley slaves -- the very wrong they have done to my son and crew! I demand --"

Galdino's rant was cut off by a rough slap to the side of his head from Mortikas, a blow that sent him reeling to the floor.

[IshCong]

Narrak, kan'Rissan

While ryk'Karr knew that not every foreigner could be so enlightened as Yasutora Takahashi, it did still rankle when they did not pay him his due honors as the shen'ro Haiid. It was nothing new, and for the sake of diplomatic niceties (and frankly, mortals were only mortals anyway) he typically refrained from making too much of a point of it. Still, usually foreign emissaries to ryk'Karr's own court were more respectful than might be expected were they abroad and it would be a lie to say that, though he hid it fairly well, ryk'Karr wasn't more than slightly irritated at Lord Peter Marzell's pretensions. As Lord Marzell shifted his gaze, he'd likely find other members of the court (the more pious, the more loyal, the less diplomatically inclined, at least one consort present who should have known better) wearing faces of some level of indignation or another.

The servant respectfully took the letter, and made as if to present it to the ryk'Korrss, but with a subtle motion ryk'Karr redirected the man to arri'Sahan Torrni, seated closest to ryk'Karr on his right, who proceeded to break the seal and begin reading it. A bit petulant? Perhaps. Arri'Torrni was still the arri'kan of kan'Rissan and one of the most esteemed officials in all Korrss and well trusted in matters of trade (not least due to his Tani connections and dealings) so ryk'Karr saw little issue in letting the man read it over before discussing the letter in full detail while ryk'Karr continued dealing with Lord Peter Marzell directly. Otherwise this 'meeting' would amount only to ryk'Karr reading a letter while the court was assembled, which wasn't really a 'meeting' with an emissary of the Empire at all so much as an incredibly extravagant postal service.

"I can assure the Emperor," the ryk'Korrss responded, "that Korrss has no intentions to unilaterally cease trading with the Empire at this time. Trade serves all men, when done fairly, and it is as much in our interests to see trade continue to flow betwixt us as it is in your Emperor's interests." Of course, ryk'Karr remained keenly aware that the Empire did not 'only' wish to see all men prosper. The Empire had designs on becoming the single nation under which all humanity dwelt, and as a sovereign and a shen'ro, ryk'Karr was less than enthused by such designs.

[Achesia]

Narrak, kan'Rissan-

Lord Marzell bowed his head at the ryk'Karr's statements. He could sense the unease of the message that he was giving but in his experience that did come often when one represented the Empire as a whole to a smaller realm. It had been nearly 230 years since the last forceful conquest of a realm of man to join the Empire. But still most sat uneasy in the shadow of the greatest nation on earth, for fear its boarders might envelope them. Most Emperors of recent time have not pressed the matter of expanding the realm, but Emperor Titus had brought back much of this fear due to some of his actions, actions Lord Marzell as Minister of Statecraft had advised against. However, it was the will of god and man for the Emperor's wishes to be carried out, and during these times of disagreement he had the deepest hope that the Emperors whims were truly divine.

"We do not fear the loss of such a valuable trade partner as yourself. Only wish to expand our friendship during the perilous times that we live in. The Emperor has outlined the official trade of your finest horse breeds from Korss for an equal amount of choice minerals from the Empire. His majesty as wishes to lower tariffs for goods from Korss so that merchants from your esteemed realm may have a advantage in Imperial Ports." Lord Marzell continued to go down the list of minor items on the document presented to ryk'Karr, until he got to the last and most important piece of the agreement, a piece that he wished to play down its importance but the weight of its part in this matter was grave. "The Emperor also requests that caravans of Imperial goods be allowed to lass overland from your western ports to your northern ports to better facilitate trade with the far eastern realms." His inflection noted that he was complete in his requests, so he waited further for the ryk'Karr to respond.