Into the waves once more [Ceaden]

by **Aelosia** » Wed Mar 21, 2012 2:06 pm

Map of the proposed expansion

It was a sunny day over the Lunai islands, and especially on the port of Estelond, but that was nothing special in the lands of the Lunai tribes. Climate was usually good the entire year, and bar a few weeks of mild winter, it was a tropical, caribbean like paradise of clear waters and golden beaches.

It had been that way for centuries, as long as the Lunai could remember, and it also still was. Yet, as there were things that never changed, some things did. Estelond was one of them. It was one of the clearest and most obvious signals of the arrival of the elves of Farisel into these lands. In no time they have raised an entire base for their massive ships, walls and piers build of white marble stone and white oak and pine wood. The port of Estelond was a magnificent sight, although many said that the fabled Falasithil could awake even more awe in the eyes that behold it.

And yet today, today it was an even more special day than usual. The fariselian navy was coming to Estelond after months of mustering and refitting at Falasithil. everything was getting ready, and both the native living in Estelond and the elven sentries knew it. The Queen was going to send the navy to the northern islands, as once she sent them to the Lunai islands.

Soon the silouettes of the large Dirnaith vessels appeared on the horizon, growing closer every minute. An hour passed, and the elven sentries and the Lunai tribesmen could be awed again at the largest icon of the fariselian might and development. The three Dirnaith ships were in the middle of the formation, their massive forms being carried by the extended vast sails, set in complicated patterns all over the ships' three masts so to take advantage of wind from any direction, and be able to outpace even smaller and lighter ships with a tailwind blowing.

Three junks followed close, each of them escorting the massive leviathans of the fariselian navy, weapons bristling and loaded, prepared for any eventuality. As the fleet finally turned and headed straight for Estelond, guards and tribesmen cheered at the passing of the mighty armada, the natives throwing flowers near the hulls of the ships as they approached, until the entire water around the piers was covered in flowers, an ancient ritual of welcoming for the Lunai. The ships reached the piers and were docked by the expert hands of the sailors in Estelond and the marines who disembarked in planks to secure the bonds.

Soon Valeriel, the Dirnaith Admiral herself, came to shore, smiling as a selected Lunai girl placed a collar of exotic tropical flowers around her neck. She waved at the multitude of traders, sailors and natives present in the streets of Estelond, her heart filled with joy of being able to visit the Lunai islands once more, but soon she was reminded that duty was waiting for her, as the fleet had came to Estelond just to resupply water and foodstuffs, to continue its venture north.

Not long after their arrival, the chief captains and commanders of the fariselian forces were meeting in the Grand hall of the Estelond port authorities, checking the sea charts displayed in front of them. Explorers have found the coast of an island not far from the Lunai archipelago, and it was now the job of the navy to investigate properly, if even in full force, and offer allegiance to the Fariselian Domain to any culture or civilization found, or annihilate any risk or threat found in the islands.

Valeriel would be the main commander, her title as Admiral and her own experience speaking of her value as overall commander. There were more than three hundred Gaetirith Marines at her disposition, alongside some navy troops transported in the junks as support, and also to garrison further gains into the islands. Six ships, including the three Dirnaith flagships were enough to crush any opposition if appeared, and to shoot awe into any barbarians that could behold their mighty and beautiful frames. tomorrow the supplies would be loaded, and the fleet ready to part.

There was nothing else to say, the course was clear. It was an exploration and conquest mission. first the fleet would reach the coast of the islands, and from there, flyers of the Eagle Talon squadrons contained in the fleet and the Skywardens sailing with the Dirnaith ships would scout and recon the zone until any kind of contact or settlement was found. If there was none, the navy should claim the island and leave the fariselian garrison. If there was some contact, their mission was supposed to contact them peacefully and offer them allegiance under freedom conditions.

Night was uneventful for most of the Marines and soldiers, just enjoying one last night of feasting and dancing with the rather handsome natives of the Lunai islands, their copper like skin so different to the clear white complexion of the Teleri elves. As dawn broke, however, everyone was already at their post, the decks of the large Dirnaith ships full with their complement of Marines, all siege weapons cleaned and ready, and Eagle Talon crews and Skywarden Knights preparing their mounts to take off into reconnoissance flights. An hour later, it was done, and the ships broke anchor, leaving Estelond to sail north, into the unknown...

ORBAT:

Dirnaith Ships (3)
6x Archadron mounted on each ship
2x Naurhadron mounted on each ship
300x Fariselian Dirnaith Marines (100x to each Dirnaith ship)
2x Skywarden to each ship
3x School Wizards to each ship
3x Warsingers to each ship
Valeniel the Admiral aboard the flagship
Anglamor the Bard in another ship

Fariselian Maethacair (Junks) (3)
2 Archadron, 1 Great Archadron and 1 Naurhadron on each ship
20x Maethor White Feather archers to each Junk
20x Maethor Steelguard Soldiers to each Junk
1x Eagle Talons to each Junk

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS:

The fariselian navy moves to recon the island north of the Lunai archipelago.

by **Achesia** » Sun Mar 25, 2012 6:05 pm

Breakdown of the Territory Underclaim

Adea'

Map
Indigenous Population: The Encantado

The encantado is a legendary creature. They live in the costal realm named Adea'. Encantados are most commonly viewed as a type of freshwater dolphin or sea snake that has the ability to shapeshift into human form. They are characterized by superior musical ability, seductiveness, and attraction to parties. The creature’s transformation into human form happens on occasion mostly in their cities, and usually occurs at night. While in human form the encantado will wear a hat to hide its protruding forehead. It does not disappear while shapeshifting and frequently displays magical abilities, such as the power to control storms and haunt humans. They use various mind control techniques and can inflict illness, insanity, and even death. The creatures are known for kidnapping humans.

The land of Adea' is an island located at the southern tip of the western continent. Its mainland is largely uninhabited however the coastal areas where the Encantado live is heavily populated. The water around the island is feared by the Lunai due to the encantado's nature of kidnapping humans.

While the encantado are not know as fierce warriors they are not to be taken lightly as their magical ability far exceeds the average humanoid. They are dangerous to those they deem trespassers and they will not hesitate to defend themselves.

Land Claiming Size: 4375 Square Miles
Population: 6,562.5 ((4,375/2)*3=6,562.5)
Resistance to be expected: Decided by random number.

1-2: 20% Resistance
3-4: 25% Resistance
5-6: 30% Resistance

Number Generated: 1 (20% Resistance)

Total Resistance: 1,312.5

Encantado Units:

I already have placed units in each of the Points of interest (POI's) bellow. You may proceed where you wish but if you bypass POI's your liable to be attacked from the rear.

Ne'er

G'r

Gai'er

Continue,

by **Aelosia** » Wed Apr 04, 2012 2:10 am

Soundtrack

The fariselian fleet moved steadily towards their target, a settlement located in the southern peninsula of the large island, a place dreaded by the Lunai, who spoke about magical creatures living in the land that kidnapped humans to devour and enslave them.

Anglamore the Bard was standing alongside the bow of the fariselian flagship, right next to Valeniel the Admiral. The silvery haired minstrel was not just the leader of the Warsingers' College of Farisel, but also a military leader by her own right. She was supposed to be Valeniel's advisor on this campaign, as well as the second in command of the navy forces gathered for the push into the Northern Islands. The Queen herself had appointed the Bard to the expedition, without further explanation but than she would be neccessary, and that made Valeniel to fear that magic would be involved in her new conquest.

"So, did you hear the nonsense the Lunai said about these islands? They say that they are populated by enchanting creatures that snatch men out of sleep and take them to their cities to enslave them and eat them", said the Admiral with disdain, watching her new advisor with interest. "I have heard ten versions of that fairy tale, and so far it has been a lie. More likely we will find a tribe similar to the Lunai, but perhaps cannibals of their own kinsmen".

"I would not disregard the myths so easily. These islands might be indeed populated by mystical creatures. Being a kind of faeries ourselves, I would believe in fairy tales. Makes sense when you live in a world of wizards and dragons", said Anglamore with her dreamy eyes closed and a perfect smile on her lips. There was something about Anglamore that made people to become extremely attracted to her. It was not the raw charisma of a military leader like Valeniel herself, who could inspire discipline. The attraction the Bard transpired was more subtle, and yet too clear and pure to become insidious lust. Even although it was said that with her voice alone she could transfix any being, even raging beasts, noone so far but her students and the Queen herself had heard any song from her. It was said that the power of her songs was so strong, that she did not dare to use it around untrained ears, in fear of enthralling them unwillingly. Valeniel wondered that if the elves had just person with them, mysterious enchanters who could drag the Lunai away could pretty well exist. They would be just like the Bard, but evil, she thought, and the thought made her shiver for a moment.

Later that same day, the sentinels aloft the high mast of the Dirnaith ships blew their whistles almost at the same time, signalling the sighting of a settlement on the southeast corner of the island, precisely the place the lunai told the elves to avoid. The fleet assumed a combat disposition, the marines marching to the decks to load and man the siege weapons displayed on the decks of the large ships, or to pick their bows and stand in archery firing formations. The crews of the Eagle Talons unfolded the wings of the great birds on their care and left the decks of the junks to patrol the area around the ships. Three small dragons, with Skywarden riders upon them, left the Dirnaith ships to also circle the ships and scout the proximities searching for any kind of naval units around the settlement.

One last Skywarden donned his helmet and checked the harness on his mount, the young and nervous green scaled Samira. He had a chest strapped to the back of the saddle, a chest full of gifts for the leaders of the settlement, and an extra seat behind his own. It was again on his hands to ride an envoy into the unknown. The diplomat standing right next to him was way more nervous than the knight, but that was understandable, as she was not armed or armoured, and lacked any warrior training as the aloof Dragonrider. He wanted for a moment to tell her that everything was going to be alright, but not even him was sure about it, so he left it be.

"First time flying?", he asked the envoy as he took a medium sized fish from a nearby bucket and slipped it into Samira's mouth, the dragon devouring it quickly with a slurping and a crushing sound.

"On dragon, yes. I have been twice atop an Eagle", she said, swallowing hard after the words.

"Then you will be alright. Eagles are faster than dragons, and turn slower", answered the knight as he went up his saddle and extended a hand to the girl to crawl into her seat at his back. "Any ideas on what are we going to find there on land?" he said to the girl as she grabbed his offer and found her spot.

"The Lunai said there were beings able to enchant and take away people from their sleep", said the girl in a nervous tone of voice.

"I hope they are good looking at least, then", answered the knight with a smirk, gently placing some belts over the girl's waist, making a harness with them and securing her to himself and to Samira.

A lonesome figure approched the Dragon almost ready to depart in the flying deck, almost running and with a held hand. The knight patted his Dragon once to keep her quiet in front of the figure, but Samira seemed to be already relaxed.

As the figure approched, the knight recognized her and a sigh escaped his throat almost unconsciously. It was the shapely figure of Ancalamore the Bard herself! her oval face surrounded by her silky silver hair, her hips moving with a precise and harmonic rhythm. He stood with his eyes fixed on her as the Bard came to him, and placed something like an amulet over his head and let it hang over his chest.

The Bard was smiling, and the knight know understood why Samira was so relaxed. She looked into his eyes with her large ensorcelled own, and said "This is a protection gem. It holds a small ward against enchantments. If any of you are the target of an enchantment, the amulet will protect you, but for only a few moments. The gem on it will grow hot if you are falling under the influence of a mind bending spell, as the mana stored inside it burns to resist the effects. If that happens, return at once to the ship, if you take too long the ward will fail and you will be enchanted. Please keep the pearl close to your skin", said Ancalamore as she slipped the pretty yellow pearl hanging from the amulet beneath the knight's cuirass.

"So you believe in the enchanting creatures", said the girl also transfixed by Ancalamore beauty and elegance. "Otherwise you would not be giving us this".

"I do believe in them", said Ancalamore with a grin. "I am one of them, in a way", she added as she moved her gaze from the knight and the girl to Samira. The Bard leaned on the side of the Dragon's head, and whispered a handful of words, words that sounded like the delicate flavor of a drop of honey falling on a tongue.

The Dragon suddenly opened her wings, and with two powerful flaps of them took off the deck, launching herself towards the coast with powerful stroked of her massive wingspan.

"May fortune be with you, and be back safely", whispered Ancalamore at the dissappearing flying figure.

Summary of actions:
The Fariselian fleet parks in front of Gai'ar
Scouts take wing
1x Skywarden goes to the settlement and an envoy offers its annexation to the Domain of Farisel in friendly terms

by **Tuthina** » Mon Apr 23, 2012 1:03 pm

Moderation

Summary of Actions:

The Fariselian fleet parks in front of Gai'ar – Succeed.
Scouts take wing – Succeed.
1x Skywarden goes to the settlement and an envoy offers its annexation to the Domain of Farisel in friendly terms – Noted, see below.

Even though the dragons were said to be slower than eagles, the dragon they rode still soared through the sky with a very fast speed, flawlessly piercing through the blue sky that was slowly turning into the golden red of twilight. Soon, the Skywarden arrived at the settlement that the Lunai dreaded, as they slowly descent at the edge of the settlement.

Perhaps to the surprise of the small landing party, the settlement was not some kind of lair of evil; at least it certainly did not look like one. It was a fairly small settlement located at a shallow beach by the coast. Half submerged into the shallow water, the setting sun at the west covered the water, along with the settlement, with a thin layer of flickering gold. Maybe due to the aquatic nature of the magical creatures that apparently inhabited it, the buildings were very like water: They were made of some kind of smooth material, perhaps not unlike some kind of pearl-like substance, and curved like it was a frozen wave, holding semi-transparent orbs at the top of them, as well as nearby them by the water. They were all coloured in a mix between blue and green, which resembled the clear shallow water nearby.

The settlement seemed to be quite light on defence, as the duo did not find any walls or defensive structures, with the exception of some tall towers around the edge of the settlement, like scout towers built to provide a better view of the surroundings. All buildings in the settlement were apparently connected by waterways that are roughly shoulder-deep, with some thin roads connecting in between, providing an environment that would be tough for land-based creature to manoeuvre in between, but perfect for water-borne creatures.

Their landing did not go unnoticed either, as several figures appeared from one of the larger, orbs-embedded buildings nearby. It was a small group, perhaps sent outside and towards them to see if the landing party was hostile or friendly. They seemed not to process any weapon, and were wearing a strange dress that extended from neck to ankle. Dull blue in colour, the clothes processed a strange texture, something that resembled thick skin of dolphins, or similar animal: smooth, tough, tenacious, and most likely water-resistance.

These inhabitants seemed to be formed by a variety of humanoid species, from human to Saffrians, one of them even resembled an elf. However, their skins were noticeably paler than their… “normal” counterparts. One of them was different from the others, as she had a larger forehead and without any hair. Her smooth skin was in a light blue colour, which matched her clothes as well. That, and the fact that the clothes were not very loose, meant that on first sight, one could mistake her as some kind of walking sea animals. However, somewhat unlike sea animals that were without a soul, she did wear some garments made of gems and silver on her limbs, and on her head was a silvery hairdress, with several blue tendrils extending until they reached her waist.

“Greetings, foreigners.” She said in the language of the elves. However, the enchanted voice of her indicated that she was not actually speaking in their language, but was a product of some kind of translation spell.

“Welcome to the tidal hatchery of Gai’ar. I am Azhot’, a Kalpan of Gai’ar.” She said, with a voice that was slightly enchanting, as the also unnoticeable warmth from the protection gem indicated. However, the weak strength of it meant that even without the protection, it would take hours, if not days, to actually enthral anyone. “We cannot help but notice that you have not been seen nearby in the past. As such, how may I be of assistance?”

OOC: I have modified the stats and settings of the encantado a bit, namely removing the hat in the setting, as well as changing half of their STR into MAG to suit the setting more.

by **Aelosia** » Wed Apr 25, 2012 12:16 pm

The hand of the Skywarden knight went quickly to the pearl lying beneath his silvery cuirass, already nervous from the words of the bard. It was not too hot, however, and maybe that could buy them some time. He was here to deliver and go, he thought, even if that meant losing the rather perky diplomat. Poor girl, it was true that although the knights talked all the time of their bravery and gallant courage, the envoys were the ones who usually had it rougher. First because they went into the thick of the thing unarmed, defenseless against the unknown. And then because everyone was willing to ditch them or sacrifice them. Why was he thinking about that anyway? Time seemed to be passing so slowly since the creature spoke...

The girl unstrapped herself from the harness and climbed down the dragon with ease. After all, the minor scions of Iregore were barely bigger than horses anyway. As she reached the ground, she walked in small steps towards the welcome commitee of sorts, holding her gaze towards the floor a pair of steps ahead of her as she walked. She did not want to look threatening.

"My name is Bethlamor, Lady Azhot, Kalpan of Gaihar", she said in the soft voice of the elven envoys, trying to use her accent for the better in the foreign terms and words. "We have not been seen in the past because we had dissappeared. As everything, we have been reborn. and now we come to your coasts, with an offer of unity and friendship". As the envoy spoke, the knight stood there with eyes wide open. The girl was brave to approach enchanting strangers like that, but then again, that was her vocation, her duty and her work, and she was facing it as brave as any knight sword in hand. She did look like she knew more about the strangers than she did tell him about before and during the ride. Then again, why trade secrets of diplomacy with a dull knight?

"You cannot assist me in any way, although your hospitality and kindness might be a boon for me. My Queen call upon the Children of the Sea to unite under one banner, as ancient times, and protect the waves from those who threaten them. You are people of the Sea, and if as such you desire to help me and assist me, please consider the proposal of my Queen, fabled amongst Wizards and Daughter of the Storms", the girl continued, now raising her eyes to meet the ones of Azhot. "I have tokens of apprecciation from my people, gifts for your powerful and wise", she said signalling to the large coffer hanging from the dragon's saddle. "My life is my warranty, that we come as allies to be and friends in hope. Nothing else, nothing more. My Queen wants to take you into her bosom and protect you, for Darkness arises West and East, North and South. Will you swim under our banner once more? Will the Dolphin answer the Call of the Storm?", she said now in the most serious voice she could muster.

Actions:

The aelosian envoy offers the dwellers of the settlement an alliance and to pledge their loyalty to the fariselian Queen in exchange of protection and friendship.
(Surrender, in other words)

by **Tuthina** » Fri Apr 27, 2012 10:59 am

Moderation

Results of Actions:

The aelosian envoy offers the dwellers of the settlement an alliance and to pledge their loyalty to the fariselian Queen in exchange of protection and friendship.
Pros:

No hostility.
Bethlamor offers her life as warranty.
Fariselian force outnumbers Gai’ar force.

Cons:

Encantado prefers independence.
Farisel is unknown for them.

[b]Dice Result:

1: Azhot refuses to surrender.
2-4: Azhot refuses to surrender, but are willing to listen further.
5-6: Azhot agrees to surrender.

Roll:
2: Azhot refuses to surrender, but are willing to listen further.

The encantado lady closed her azure eyes and thought for a while, as she analysed the proposal made by Bethlamor. As the sea was the domain of the encantado, Azhot knew perfectly that the incoming alien force of the elves was too powerful for her, or even all of her people, to stand against. However, on the other hand, those elven ships seemed to be unable to dive into the depths of the ocean, and the worst would be the encantado being driven back into the depths of the sea, without the elves being able to find them for a very long time. It would, though, also lead to the demise of her people, as they would lost the tidal hatcheries that were essential for the encantado to prosper.

“I understand your point, foreigner.” After considering it for a while, Azhot opened her eyes again. Her reply was, like before, slightly enchanted, and it was a mix of concerns and other emotions, rather than a jussive one that was usually used for controlling people through enchanting.

“However, since long before I born, our people had been swimming in the blue sea freely, without a care of the world except those in our reign. Even if I heed your call, it would be hard to convince the other Kalpans to do so, especially for an unknown foreigner like you.” Azhot explained, as the others beside her nodded in agreement. It was a somewhat strange vision to see that many different races to gather together here, seemingly sharing the same thought under their pale skin.

“You mentioned there was darkness rising in all four seas.” She said, “If you have some time for us, may I invite you to stay in this tidal hatchery this night, so that you may know more about our people, as well as to explain it to me and the others? I am sure with more understanding, we might be able to craft an agreement.”

As the sun gradually set into the western horizon, night started its reign on this island. More and more people, both in pale skin or in the blue skin of the encantado, emerged from the shallow water or the curved houses. While many of them appeared to have their own business to attend to, the arrival of the elves still caught many attention, as several dolphins could be seen transforming into their humanoid form upon reaching the shallow water, and paid their visit to the elves. “As you can see, our people is curious about your people. A stay for the night would be very beneficial for both of us.” Azhot smiled.

At the same time, as the moon started to rise from its slumber, the deep water where the fleet was at started to reflect the silvery light from the moon. It was more than a reflection from the water, though, as schools of dolphins, apparently led by several serpent-like creatures, started to approach the ships. However, they maintained their distance, and merely observe from a distance in different angles.

[b]Summary of Actions:

Azhot->Invites the Skywarden duo to stay this night.

by **Aelosia** » Wed May 02, 2012 12:22 pm

Bethlamor simply nodded, although a perceptive mind, and for sure the Encantado were even more perceptive than anyone could imagine, could perceive a deep dissappointment on her face and eyes.

"I cannot refuse the offer. Under other circumstances, under a different fate, I would had accepted it gladly, and would smile and congratulate myself upon the chance of visiting such a place as this one, and also at the chance at sharing with people such as yours. Given the current circumstances, however, I accept, but I do not gladly do so", said Bethlamor as she turned for a second and softly beckoned her partner to dismount and approach with nothing but a smile and the movement of her eyes. "We will stay, and I will explain you about the dangers", she said softly, letting Azhot to guide her.

"I suppose that having swum in these waters for centuries make your people wise and also you must have seen many things. You know the laws of the sea. Sea creatures eat what they can, and leave the rest. The ocean replenishes itself in time. It has been like that from the beginning of the beginning, and that way it will remain, so it might be. Yet there are creatures not like you or me, who take what they need to survive. They will keep taking, and their greed would not stop at anything. Creatures that walk in two legs, like you and me, yet cannot swim on water. They travel in ships, like ours, and also fish with nets and rods. They are like us, only brighter and yet ephemeral. They are called humans. And to the East, they dwell in the tens of thousands, maybe even hundred of thousands", the elven envoy paused here, as she continued to follow Azhot into wherever she was leading them. She sighed, as to recover strength.

"They need food. Tons of food. They need to consume it, and everyday they consume more and more. They ravage the land they live in, to sow it with grain, to feed birds and mammals with it to eat them. I know what you are thinking, your excellence", Bethlamor paused again, and an intelligent stare passsed through her eyes for a second. "We do the same things. We elves do exactly the same thing", and then she paused once more, for effect. "The difference is that we know when to stop, and they do not. They eat until they engorge and burst, and then some more. They consume until there is nothing left. They sow until they rip the lands, they cut trees until no forest is left, and they, oh Lady, they fish until there is nothing left, not even the smaller hatchlings. And those are the good ones. The nice ones. The better ones. The worst will come to destroy and to kill for fun, not for nourishment. I know this notion is alien to you, as the sea does not hold cruelty even in the desire of nourishment from the shark as a predator. But the worst humans, the bad ones, the nasty ones, they have that instinct they call entertaiment, and they do not stop until everything close is dead. And that if they kill you, and do not soil your water with something that kills everything that breathes it, or commands dark magic into the water to make it black and poisonous. My Queen has seen them, has seen how the dark magic of ancient times awakens in far away places of sand and rock and mountains. If that magic touches your blue sea, it will not be blue anymore, and then it will too late, as what is dead may not rise again. It is against that danger that we have come to warn you".

"And even worse. Right now we elves are too few to stop them, or to challenge them. We are feeble, and weak, for all the might you can see in our ships. For each of us there is one thousand humans in the West! We cannot hold the humans forever. We need friends as your people. We need your alliance and tribute. We will defend you from them, we will keep them away from here. Kill and die for your right to remain free and to swim in clean waters, we can do it. We live forever, and unless slain we cannot perish. Yet we are willing to die, to make the ultimate sacrifice to defend you from the human fleets. Are you truly willing to turn down such an offer, Azhot, my Lady Kalpan? Please take me to your ruler, as I must warn about the threat that encroaches upon us all!"

ON THE FLEET:

"Double the guards", said the elven Admiral as night fell and she got no response from the ambassadors. "There is movement in the waters", she said the the officers gathered in her command room right under the deck of her massive flagship. "I want no lamp dark, no horns unattended, and no bow idle. All our men must patrol the decks tonight".

The captain of one of the junks looked at the Admiral Valeniel and rose an eyebrow. "It is said that dolphins are a blessing from the mothers of the sea, and that their presence brings good luck. Even the Lunai believe so. We also do. Why would be afraid of them showing up? For sure it is nothing but an omen of the good tidings for our enterprise here".

Valeniel did not answer, but turned to Ancalamore, the Bard, intead. She was the highest magic user present in the fleet, and indeed her light shone against the pale and weak auras of the other dull elves as moonlight upon dark waters. "Dolphins led by serpents, sire. I wonder when and where have you seen such a sight before. It is either a ruse, or a threat, or those are not true dolphins, or they are enslaved by something mysterious. There is something magic in the air, and for now we need to wait. I spoke of my suspicions to the Admiral, and she agreed to maintain a high degree of security. I do not think they are threatening us, but to stay on our toes while we sail uncharted land is not a rather nonsensical behavior, don't you think?".

Actions:
The fleet stay in alert through the night.
Bethlamor accepts the offer and asks to be led to the absolute ruler of all Encantados.

by **Tuthina** » Thu May 03, 2012 7:51 pm

Moderation

Results of Actions:

The fleet stay in alert through the night. - Noted. See below.
Bethlamor accepts the offer and asks to be led to the absolute ruler of all Encantados. - Noted. See below.

Like Ancalamore predicted, the school of dolphins led by sea serpents seemed not to be threatening, as they maintained their distance with the Fariselian fleet and circled around, perhaps to obtain a better view of the ships in different directions. As their shiny bodies swam through the dark seas, submerging and emerging again into the tides, the silence of the looming night started to melt, as the sound of musics could be heard around the sea the fleet was at. Despite not being in any shape that resembled human or elves, the sound from the dolphins and serpents started to transform into a song. It was a soft, relaxing song in an unknown tongue, one that was similar to the elven tongue, yet many of the words were replaced by different languages around the world, as if they were trying to procure a language that combined the elegance of all speeches known.

While it was obvious that the song by the sea creatures was magical in nature, as a tiny scent of enchantment and enthrallment could be detected in the air. However, it was nowhere near one that could be used against them. Instead, it seemed to have no purpose beyond relaxing the minds of the elves to enjoy the calm and dark night in this foreign land.

Azhot quietly listened to the speech given by Bethlamor, as the encantado Kalpan slowly lead the envoy into the settlement of Gai’ar. As the night loomed upon them, this city of azure started to awake from its slumber as well, as more and more figures could be seen emerging either from the water or from the houses. Like the initial encounter, the population of Gai'ar was apparently made of various species in addition to encantado, humans and elves alike. However, many of their skin were paler than they should be, and a slight blue tint could be seen beneath the skin, as if they were being transformed slowly from within. They seemed to not mind such transformation, though, as they started their live without any noticeable difference - markets on water and on the wall of houses opened, welcoming others to trade goods with some sort of shiny shells, while some leaped into the shallow water and enjoyed a good swim, either in humanoid form or transformed into dolphins once they were in water.

"I understand your concern, my friend." As opposed to the disappointment and call for action from the elves, Azhot seemed to maintain her perpetual smile without a care of the world. Her voice, enchanted and translated to be soft and gentle, indicated a slight hint of sympathy and worries, but otherwise still a relatively easy tone. "As you can see, we have encountered humans before. Like what you have said, they inhabit every corners of the sea - some of them just north of our sea, and they are indeed numerous compared with our kind. Unfortunately so, many of them were indeed possessed by the curse of avarice and gluttony, as our brethren learnt the hard way."

"However, like one of those humans said, 'the sea contains all rivers', we have found our ways to... remedy the curse of the humans and freed them from it." Azhot smiled, as they walked upon one of the thin roads that connected the settlement together without having to walk in waist-deep water. Indeed, like she said, there were humans living in here as well, and they seemed to be able to live with each other in harmony. However, the pale and blue-tinted skin of them, as well as the lack of... something deep within their eyes, indicated that they were not exactly humans.

"Do you believe that we are granted life by a higher being, with a pre-determined purpose to be fulfilled before the eternal slumber embraced us?" She asked, as they entered one of the larger houses by the waterside. The water surrounding it ranged from waist-deep towards the settlement, to a sudden underwater sloop that appeared to be at least several metre deep. As they entered and walked down the stairs made of azure walls and decorated with coral reefs, the room gradually enlarged, until the reached the main room beneath the building. It appeared to be a room for meeting, as a table made of polished blue stone sat in the middle of it. However, the floor of the room was divided into two equal parts: the part where they were at, where the floor was solid and without water, and the part where the "floor" was effectively a waterhole that lead to the bed of the sea several metre below. Several blue stones by the edge of the wall glowed gently, and magic could be detected from it, as they were the only thing that prevented the entire room from being flooded and consumed by the sea. Like the other walls in the settlement, the walls of this room were made of some kind of polished stone and appeared in blue and green. However, the wall facing the ocean was transparent, and Bethlamor could see schools of fish swimming in the sea without interference, as well as the distant lights from the Fariselian fleet, reflected by the ocean water and occasionally blocked by swimming dolphins around the ship.

"We do. We believe we are created with a purpose, and the purpose is to live together with all the species in the world in harmony." She smiled. "It might sound unbelievably naïve to you, as to many who we encountered. However, perhaps unlike them, we have the means to achieve our purpose, and we are willing to perform our duty to create a peaceful and harmonious world between every of us."

"It would be a bit difficult for me to take you to my leader, for such thing do not exist. We heard that upon the surface, humans, elves, as well as other people often are ruled by one or several people with the most aspects that was considered of utmost importance, be it lineage, wealth, strength, or wisdom. However, we are beyond that." Azhot said, as she stepped towards the table. She slowly opened her arms and filled her lung with air. "What we consider of utmost importance is the ability to cohabit with others, and by definition, a leader without equal will not be able to do so effectively. Thus, please wait for a while before my equals arrived for you."

Then, she started to sing towards the ocean beyond the transparent wall. Enchanted and Enthralled, it was a song of magic, of which her gentle, soft, assuring voice melted with the tones of magic surrounding them, and bring the message from her to the depth of the ocean. It was a beautiful song, like series of waves composed of a strange yet elegant ancient language, conveying the message in a cryptic and poetic way. At the same time, the enchantment in it was noticeably more potent than her usual speech, and would probably be enough to immediately divert the attention of others to her and her alone. It took her a while to finish the song, as she breathed deeply and then returned to the elves. "How do you think of my song?"

by **Aelosia** » Wed Jun 13, 2012 12:22 pm

The elves tried to point at the shadows swimming near the fleet, but somehow their aggression senses were dimmed by something heavy and oily floating in the atmosphere. Sentries started to relax, and many slung their bows upon the backs again.

This did not go for long, as Ancalamore started her own song to counter the effect the song was having upon her people. She grabbed her harp, and started a ballad about steadfast service and loyal duty. A song about old and forgotten battle deeds, to try to raise morale. The other Warsingers in the other ships of the fleet quickly followed suit, joining the chant with trumpet, fiddle, lute and flute alike.

Action:
Ancalamore and the Warsingers try to inspire courage and duty upon the elves on the ships, to keep them on guard, and to dispel any effect that may make them enchanted or sleepy.

"I...I do believe in fate magic, Lady Azhot, to be honest. And in Ilúvatar, who made creation but then left us to our own devices to suffer or prosper by our own actions and decisions. And in Mandos, who dictates fate, mandate Doom itself, and wait for all elves at the other side of the veil. The Hall of Mandos, where we all wait until we can be reborn again. I do not only believe it, my Lady Azhot, I know it. There has been those amongst us that have returned from the veil and reborn again into this world", said Bethlamor as an answer to the Lady's first question.

After they entered into the marvelous chamber made of green and blue stone, Bethlamor went almost speechless. There was so much beauty to be preserved and admired here...If she failed her mission then...For a moment she despaired, but found a new surge of willpower and heard carefully the words of the Lady Azhot, determined to succeed. She had a way and a duty. She was surprised to know that the Encantados had no leader as such, but not completely amazed. There were stories that said that elves once lived that way, before the first shadow came, and there were rumours that some communities still practiced those ways of convivence. But that was in safe lands, in secure lands, not in seas plagued with corsairs, undead nations rising, and humans ready to despoil nature in every way imaginable. Farisel could not be like those reclused and faraway elven colonies with the rule of the peers, or like the encantados. They needed a strong leader for the time being, until the world could change.

Then the song came through, and the two elves remained transfixed by it until the sound expired softly.

"It was beautiful", were the simple words of the elven knight as it ended. Bethlamor was surprised to see that one single tear was rolling down her left cheek, a testimony of the powerful effect of the song on her.

"It...", she paised for a moment, catching her breath. "It was amazing. Enchanting, I would say. I heard the sea speaking to me. About peace", she said to Azhot. "You speak of peace, as we do. Why can't we be friends and remain allies through the dark times to come? You sing, as we do. You are from the sea, as we do. My Queen will let you retain your form of governance, and you will be ruled by your own people, and she will only send some envoys and request things that she need in exchange for things that we have you might need. That is what friendship amongst people is about. That is what we want too. You...You have to accept my offer Lady Azhot, please! For the sake fo your OWN people!", claimed Bethlamor with perhaps too much emphasis on those last words. Then everything that she was fearing and did not dare to say came flooding out of her mouth, as if indeed possessed by some sort of enchantment that made her emotions bloom. "You need to save yourselves. Argue with me. Bargain. Parley. Make demands. Request special treatments and conditions. But please do not reject my offer, do not doom yourselves and your hatcheries, please!, I beg you to!".

by **Tuthina** » Sun Jun 17, 2012 3:10 pm

Moderation

Results of Actions:

Ancalamore and the Warsingers try to inspire courage and duty upon the elves on the ships, to keep them on guard, and to dispel any effect that may make them enchanted or sleepy. - Succeed. See below.

As the ballad from Ancalamore started, and the other warsingers joined her rank to counter the effects of the songs by the dolphins and leading serpents, the songs from the seas started to quell. While small whispers and faint tunes could still be heard, it did not seem to have any effect on the elven crew, and the schools of dolphins soon departed, although some of them seemed to still be around several rocks, keeping an eye and an ear on the foreign fleet.

"Your god is indeed very interesting." Azhot smiled as she listened to Bethlamor explaining the mythology and belief to her. However, while her curiosity was genuine, her tone seemed to imply that she did not full-heartily approve of the way the elven creation myth implies. "While we know not of our creators, we believe that we are born to uphold, and to spread harmony upon all that embrace it. Perhaps our creators did leave us to our own device, they granted us the ability to uphold our duties as well, as you can see, and hear."

As the last note of the song of magic by the Kalpan dissolved into the humid air and the deep blue ocean in front of them, she smiled at the fascinated elves. The faint, yet somewhat deep smiling of her showed that she was genuinely happy about the silent approval of the two elves. At the same time, some of the schools of dolphins previously surrounding the Fariselian fleet, or just wandering among the ocean, seemed to have noticed the song by Azhot as well, as they started to approach this special chamber. While most of them appeared to maintain a distance from it, several of them - most of them in the form of sea serpents, continued to approach, before the upper half of their bodies emerging in the watery half of the chamber. Once leaving the embracing clear water, the serpents started to resume into their humanoid form. Like Azhot, they possessed the smooth blue skin of her, as well as the tendrils that were half-dipped into the cool water. Most, if not all, of them seemed to know the language of the elves as well, as they looked at Bethlamor, Azhot, as well as each other as the elf started to speak with all her emotions flooding out from her body and determined eyes. Several of them seemed to whispered softly, in an almost inaudible tune and lullaby as she continued, but none intervened, or showed signs to stop her.

"Thank you for your praise of the song of myself, and of my people, my friend." Azhot smiled, as she answered after the final note of the elven speech fully dissolved into the minds of the surrounding Encantados. "I hear the feels and thoughts within your speech and your songs, and they are genuine."

"Your plead for an friendship between our people is moving, as well, and if that is all that are asked for, we see no reasons to reject, for we are created to forge friendship between all that have souls." Another half-serpent, half-Encantado audience continued.

"However, we are afraid of an 'alliance' with a land-clan like yours will break the fragile harmony between our children and children of others. We understand not the minds of yours, nor the action other land-clans called 'war'." The answer was continued by yet another Encantado serpent, who seemed to be slightly more different to elves than the other Encantados. "If such a strong friendship was made, would our children catch on this disease of 'war'?"

What followed was what appeared to be a discussion among the audience and Azhot. However, unlike a debate, even unlike a discussion between elven scholars, it was more like a choir, as the different tunes and speeches between them managed to melt together to form a song. It was a beautiful, soft and elegant song, but different from the song by Azhot a moment before, for it was in a slightly faster pace, and faint strings of discord could be heard here and there. They soon disappeared, though, as the choir soon indulged into a more united, and softer song, lead by Azhot.

"We have discussed about your proposal, my friend." Azhot said, although her words were mixed with a small tune, which seemed to be magical in nature, as the audience followed it to create a small, yet somehow stunning in its own right, song. "We always welcome new friends from all corners of the oceans. However, many of us afraid that it will hamper our goal of spreading peace and harmony, for your people did engage in the events of 'war'. We are afraid that we will be... involved."

"For that, we wish to know more of your people, and your people more of ours. Will you, or one of your other friends, be willing to join us? Not as a friend or a visitor upon our hatchery, but as us, the Encantados, as we are called." Azhot concluded. Despite her calming tune, it was obvious that she was worried, either about the future of the two people, or about the thing she was about to say. "It might be hard to ask you to give up what as an elf and become an Encantado, and it might not be what is acceptable for you. However, my kind believe that this is the ultimate way for an understanding deep enough to confirm the strong friendship you seek for."

"Is it acceptable? We wish for a friendship no matter the answer, and you are free to stay or leave this hatchery before giving the answer. We will not force you." Azhot said, before returning to a silent smile, as she and the audience awaited for an answer.

by **Aelosia** » Wed Jun 20, 2012 12:19 pm

The Skywarden knight, for a moment, felt completely appalled by the Encantado's words, and felt the need to intervene, guided by his now unleashed emotions. "We would never force anyone to fight a war for us. You can always object to fight, and we will still protect you should you ever call us. The Lunai to the south decided to never raise warriors again, and we respect that decision and let them lie peacefully in their lands. We carry the burden of protecting them and fighting for them now. We give our otherwise immortal existence to defend and assist them should they ever be endangered...", there was a bitter note in his tone right before Bethlamor rose a hand in front of his face, a natural sign of shut-up-please-you-are-screwing-up in the elven gesture language.

"I understand fully your concerns, Encantados", she said, although the word was hard to roll out of her tongue, although she managed to get an adequate pronunciation. "My companion also understands, as does Farisel as a whole. We would never put you in harm's way if you oppose to do such thing. We would not recruit you to fight in our wars. That is a cruel thing, and we could be many things, but never cruel", she added, understanding now that whatever the Encantado were, they were a peaceful people, as she was. A knight would never understand that desire for peace, being trained and developed to fight, even if it always was in defense of the weak and the defenseless, the meek and the powerless.

"We came with weapons, yes", she said, making a gesture with her arm and hand to point at the vast expanse of the coast nearby. "And I will not lie. Should you had harmed me or opposed us with force, our ship would had made fire rain upon your hatchery", she lowered her head at those words, as she felt guilty of those plans even as they belonged to her superiors. She felt shame, indeed, yo have been part of a plot to harm such a peaceful society. Yet she knew that no Fariselian would purposedly harm a peaceful being. Should everything work, the fleet would remain calm, and no blood would be spilled, no fire would be ignited, and no steel would be unsheathed today. "I hope you can take my words as what they are, a show of honesty. After talking with you, I am sure no elf would ever raise a hand against you, and they would be willing to take risks to protect you. You are trueborn Sons and Daughters of the Sea".

The fariselian envoy did not speak to Azhot anymore, but to the gathering of Encantados there. "And that is why I will take your offer. I have nothing to hide, and by becoming one of you you will see the truth not just of my intentions, but also the intentions of my people. When I unite with you, you will find my purpose", she said, the surprised girl now taking a serious posture more akin to a much mature individual.

"You should not...", said the Skywarden knight, shaking his head sideways slowly, closing his eyes, knowing that Bethlamor would not be swayed, although that did not stopped him from trying.

"I must", were the words of Bethlamor, no more. the knight did not say more, having understood what had to happen, and why. "You will tell the fleet of what happen, but I must join them". She turned again to the Encantados. "I accept. I will become one of you, and we will read each other, and learn. Is it acceptable?", she asked, now daring to make an open smile towards Azhot.

by **Tuthina** » Mon Jul 16, 2012 6:22 am

While some of the enchantados seem to be equally appalled by the bitter remark from the Skywarden knight, their reactions were quickly masked, first by calm as Bethlamor resolved the situation, then by surprise as the elf accepted the offer of the enchantados to turn her into one of them. Even though they are the one that made her the offer in the first place, it was rare for one - especially one of elf that had never meet an enchantado before - to accept such strong offer that quickly. Even Azhot seemed to be surprised as she said, but her expression quickly turned into a welcoming smile as she looked into the eyes of her. The silent whispering between other encantados formed yet another beautiful humming tunes, as the Kalpan started her response.

"We are... surprised by your quick answer, one that with the sounds of determination." Azhot said, with a welcoming smile, "Of course this is acceptable and preferable, considering the grave circumstances we might be forced to face you said."

"Because of your special situation, we will be preparing for your rite of passage into one of encantado immediately. However, the material and rituals require time to be prepared... about a day, at least." Azhot continued, "However, reversible the rite is not, and once it has begun, it cannot be ended - at least, not with an end any of us prefers. Because of that, you are free to resort your private business before the sunset of tomorrow, as well as to think twice of it. Of course, we welcome you with open hands, and we do not hope any regret from you, but if it has to be, please tell us your final decision at twilight, for afterwards there will be no return."

"Otherwise, this meeting is adjourned." Azhot turned towards her colleagues as she hummed a little tune. After a strange duet the surrounding encantados leave the chamber one by one, before all of them dissipated into the dark blue ocean, where small songs could be heard, one that entailed the name of Bethlamor. Afterwards, the Kalpan turned back to the elves. "Other than that, is there anything we can help you?"

Into the waves once more [Ceaden]

Into the waves once more [Ceaden]

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