To Fell an Empire 3.0 [IC]

[Mesrane]

Erlend allowed the half-smile that had previously rested on his lips to erupt into a wide, cavernous grin. "I think you sum up the man's ineptitude quite well. And the ambiguous nature of his house, which I have never taken a liking too despite my best efforts at pleasing the Imperial coffers when Orius reigned. Damn him, he seems almost paranoid, not to mention his close-mindedness over the matter of reform, as you said. I will never vote for him." Erlend paused to sip from his mead. "Good, good. Now that that matter is cleared up, it becomes an issue of whether we have the same sorts of people in mind as alternatives. I have never held much against elvenkind and less against House Tarembor, but I'm sure you can't imagine achieving wide support for an elven candidate among some of these other houses that would follow the Tellegaras over the edge of the world. And some that vote with them in the hope of cozying up to the Lord Steward in the years ahead. You or the Imperial Lady of Shadows, Ellyn Tarembor, would make sound regents, if only the other houses of men would stand for an elf in such a position. Another point of luck in this otherwise gloomy night is that, between our two houses, between Ellyn and my nephew Domnall," Erlend gestured to the middle-aged man on his left. "We control the courts, the justiciars, and most of the Empire's intelligence assets. Arguably the most dangerous combination in times such as these."

"It is good that we agree about Belrond, we cannot have him as Regent. And what you say is also true, putting myself forward as the Regent would be favorable, or my daugher Ellyn, who is more than capable, but she prefers to be, well, as her title suggests, in the shadows. My wife will be contacting a few of the other houses as we speak, to discuss matters. However, as you have also said, there will be little support for an elven candidate, but we shall see. We do control the courts, justiciars and the intelligence, but in military strength, if it comes to that, we are not in a favorable position. However, I suspect that intelligence will be important. Ellyn has a network of spies and assassins throughout much of Pandyssium. Any ideas? Or do you think that you would garner more votes, and therefore, we should promote you as Regent?


Tarembor Estate

The hearth was blazing brightly as Lady Miren sat as host to their various vassals and guests. Irithren plucked her harp while Dalinar played another exquisite instrument off to the side. Their dining hall, though not as large as other lords' had a certain elegance and magnificence to it, with its high, painted windows and stone carved pillars, plints and the table, with elvish runes and carvings swirling, dancing upon it. But there was still plenty of room left for several more houses.

Earlier, she had penned letters to some of the houses who she thought would be willing to align themselves with House Tarembor and Vallorion, in this coming debate. Saerondr had already left for the Eriadunn estate, which was good, but they needed more friends.

To Lord Aguston II Venor the Grey,
I invite you and all that you wish to dine at the Tarembor estate tonight. The harp still sings, the wine is sweet, and there are matters to discuss tonight, of the realm.
-Lady Miren Tarembor

To Lord Taslon Nelkadian,
I invite you and all that you wish to dine at the Tarembor estate tonight. The harp still sings, the wine is sweet, and there are matters to discuss tonight, of the realm.
-Lady Miren Tarembor

To Lord Io'szon Thezardül,
I invite you and all that you wish to dine at the Tarembor estate tonight. The harp still sings, the wine is sweet, and there are matters to discuss tonight, of the realm.
-Lady Miren Tarembor

The letters were sent with trusted messengers of Vallorion and they presently arrived at their separate locations, handing the guards the letters.

Caer Aard

Erlend nodded. Saerondr had, once again, adequately summed up the state of things. Saerondr might be an elf, but Erlend couldn't help but start to take a liking to the Lord's clear head and wise counsel. "I find myself once more in agreement, Saerondr. For the most part. A human reformist candidate is probably the most likely to adequately challenge Belrond for the regency. But I would not suggest myself, oh no. I am too grumpy, and too disdainful of the snakepit that is the Imperial Magistratum. Instead, why not a man who has spent the better part of the last decade in the lion's den?" Erlend patted his nephew on the shoulder, and Domnall flashed a nervous smile. "Indeed," Domnall said, "I have eight years experiance at the office of Provost Marshal. If elected, I would do my best to encourage more . . Docile reforms based on my uncle's proposal. I'm afraid I would have to play quite the impartial statesman however, in order to dissolve the worst suspicions and keep a knife out of my back for as long as possible. That is of course assuming that what's left of the Empire's unity does not fall into the horse shit, as we say in Eriadha." He turned back to Erlend, who picked up the thread from there.

"Alas, Tis true, we are at a military disadvantage currently. But if things turn out as badly as they look, then our troops will be fighting for their homes, families, and livelihoods when the blows begin, and that will count for much. And if House Tellegara and their potential allies raise their armies against us simply for proposing reform to a flawed system, then we will have been right all along, won't we? Still, I don't imagine two houses will accomplish much tomorrow. Most of the other houses here in the north seem most supportive of reform. It would be wise to contact them, if you haven't already taken the liberty of doing so. Also, Otto von Lichtenburg of Roken approached me earlier, telling me of his support for my proposal. However, I think he may be understandably reluctant to support someone other than Belrond. If he could be convinced that Belrond is in fact the greatest risk he could take, and that what we're putting together is not a power grab but a last-gasp attempt to not only save the Empire but to improve it, he may be our man. It's likely to be a tough sell, though." Erlend sat back, awaiting Saerondr's take.

[Kaledoria]

The Men of Röken

Otto's meeting with his Burgmeisters was Ended by an invitation from house Tellegara.

What would Kevin Tellegara want? "Hey you know where von Bernstein is?" One of them had heard the young man was residing with his great uncle the Chamberlain. "Good, this is almost on the way. Sorry, if I don't extend this invitation onto you two but it might be a trap and in that case you two need to be save here with the guards. I nevertheless need someone not only able to defend himself but someone used to nobility."

He send a messenger to Götz von Bernstein, officially requesting his presence (as a guest and personal guard), to the dinner in the Tellegara wing in the Castle of Caer Aard.

Soon later they met there and entered together.

[Greater Liverpool]

"I hope you like this cell you will be here a long time" said the Jail guard as he closed the jail door and locking it
"Putting me in here will be the biggest mistake you have ever done" Davit replied with as he sit on a bed attached to the side of the cell.
"Ha, no you have done the biggest mistake of your life." The jail guard left the cell to go and check up on the other prisoners. They were mostly empty from the prison break but the amount of guards in the prison had increased. Davit sat on his bed puzzled, think of a way to break out and to get back to Caer Aard or even to get to the new regent just someone of power. He sat there for a good 30 seconds before he came up with a quick and smart idea. He grabbed a small wooden chair that was in the corner of the room. He proceeded to look at inspecting it, before starting to smash it against the cell door making a huge bang that echoed through the halls of the prison. A guard quickly ran over to Davit's cell to find out what had happened, he peered into the cell looking for Davit. Davit was tucked away in the left hand corner of the room the darkest place of the cell.

The guard unlocked the door and slowly opened the cell door taking an eagle-like look round the cell till his eyes landed on Davit. Davit quickly grabbed the head of the guard and smashed it against the wall repeatedly until it turned red with red blood and let go of it as it fell to the ground like a sack of potatoes. He found a set of keys on the guard and unlocked his wrist and leg chains. Davit then popped his head out of the cell door to see two more guardsmen running towards his cell. Davit calmly left his cell and walked upwards towards the guardsmen running at him. He took a second to note they were directly behind each other, in a quick move Davit grabbed the right hand of the first guard which had his sword and stabbed it through the chest of the first guy before pushing forward more into the second guard. He then pushed both the guards dying corpses to the side of the hall and proceeded to walk towards the entrance of the prison.

He reached the door leading to entrance and get on his knees to look through the key hole. He saw a guard directly in front of the door. He took a step and put his leg on the door to measure the distance, he put his leg down and took a deep breath. He lifted his leg up and kicked the centre of the door sending it off it hinges and into the back of the unsuspecting guard. He saw a gentlemen not in guard uniform sitting at a dest scared like a little girl. Davit walked over to him, grabbed him by his shirt and angrily asked "where do they keep my stuff". The Men didn't not say a word but lifted a shaking right hand and pointed towards a large chest. Davit then grabbed his head a smashed against the desk. He opened the chest to see his Kopis and his amour in the chest and picked it up putting his amour on and his sword around his waist.

[The Soviet Union of Mother Russia]

Ninurtusur
Abi-libur

After the long journey starting from Imperial Heartlands, to Vallorion, and finally arriving back in Ninurtusur, the delegation of Sar-Shazzar came home at last. After passing through Mount Apal-shipak, the chilly winds of their homeland soon gave them a ease of mind. Never did the men of the Silver Cities favour in going outside their respective homeland, seeing it as a superior land compared to the rest of Pandyssium. They always were somewhat self-righteous, but mainly their past have caused them only seem more separated then the rest of the lands beyond. In any regards, besides the company of the representatives, they carried along a small league of those who were in the political opposition of the Imperium, likely device some scheme in the future to come.

Following the roads further up the grasslands of the Shagarakti county, Lord Sandro came back to his domain, Abi-libur. The city was rumoured to being built on the legendary site of the old god '' Askalaphos '', one of the seven daemons who tended watched over the underworld. As the tale went from the Abbey of Darkness, he managed to see his wife being casted into the abyss of the dark, and for his action to using his power to reanimating her from the soil of death, he forever was punished to have his magical powers casted off, and having endure the rest of his eternally spend his life in the place of his wife, the darkness. Instead of seeing him as a criminal as the majority of the believers in The Faith does, the tradition in Ninurtusur is instead to pray to him, begging for his powers to pick up another soul from the darkness, and onto the ground. As such make the grounds of necromancy, which many still to this day see as a demonic, and devilish contract with the creatures of the underworld.

After being placing his feet back on the warm, and sturdy cobblestone road, he looked forward to return back to the Palace of The Silver Cities, or the '' Mausoleum '' as the joke went. Arriving in the large passageway, numerous politicians, minor vassals, and lords came by. It seemed in the time that he was away, that something gave them a reason why to come to the seat of power. Making his way to the office it soon was described in dossiers, and files about the suspected mobilization of the Imperial Army garrisoned in Ninurtusur. It was not a give surprise that the likely levy dedicated to the Empire was trying to being tied to their service, but he knew if it came to it, the majority would be in favour of serving their region, and not orders on paper. Yet with that being said, the fact that House Thoront would wish to such action to happened was a clear indication of the likely chasm to come between them, and the rest of the Realms.

Looking up from the table now engulfed in similar reports, a pair of advisors, and representatives now all looked with gleaming onto the man behind the desk. One of the men stepped forward to Sandro, giving a light nod before voicing another austere tone only heard so many time before by these liches.

'' My Lord, if I may speak on the behalf of the House of the Lower Chamber, we are worried about the likely sanctions to come if we are insisting on keeping our foreign policy dependant on exports of the Pandyssium, which at this grim time is not to be trusted. It may be required to nationalize, and declare our production independent if we are to evade such, instead of waiting for the likely influence of others to pressure the Emperor into lashing out onto us. Besides, the Lords of The Grand Republic of Röken is attempting to get their influence on the boy, it would not surprise me if they attempted to launch another failed crusade at our lands. ''

Even though such a action would cut the ties to the rest of the House, it may just be required in order stand protected against the precautions of the Empire. Sandro looked with a perturbed expression over the men, he had hoped he did not have to do it within such a short time, yet it may just be what fate desired of them. With the dark, and cold eyes of the politicians tracking his every move, he finally succumbed under the pressure the polices into stone, starting the likely countdown before the Realm was all, but by itself in the vast land of the Empire. Having his pale hands grasp around the pen, he written the legislation, marking the various actions to come.

'' The die is casted, now the fate of the rest of Pandyssium lays in the hands of Terren. I pray by our eternal torpor that he will not give in to the hawks roaming around Caer Aard, or we may very well face another Great War ''

Even though the politicians was satisfied with their actions met, they did realize after seeing their wise, yet worried Lord Sandro in such a condition. It seemed like the Lord did not wish to test the durability of the bone against the threats that may be, however with papers signed it seemed to spawn a abyss of actions to come. Within a few hours, the long stretch of border became all but silent, having various figures rise up to stand guard at the forts, and posts stationed all along the mountain-pass, adjacent to the lands of Vallorion. What happened within the Silver cities was all, but bureaucratic nightmare. Traders argued who should own what, and whom they should sell, and import from now. It was a costly affair indeed, but the statement it made was perhaps the better, of good. The population overall was accepting of it, yet they could never excepted it to happened within such a shift time as it did. Perhaps it was inevitable, after Sandro knew all too well they could never obey Terren, nor the fact of his age, or race.

What embassies, trading guilds, and representatives soon found themselves wondering what allegiance to pick, if they should join this '' Revolution '' or join the others whom were on their way for the border. For the Imperial levies it became even worse, as now they became a pawn themselves in this political entanglement. Whatever cohesion made them serve to the Empire was all but gone, having some rather wanting to return to their homelands, some wanting to see what this new age would bring, and some just relieved for the early retirement. It seemed everything up North of Pandyssium was turning upside down, and there was seemingly no end to the changes to come. It was likely only a matter of days, if not hours before the rest of the Realms noticed this House standing up for itself. For the better, or worse..Well, that was another thing to consider.

At the end of the day, in a symbolic display the Imperial banner was removed from the highest peak of Nadin-eshah, replacing it instead with the Mark of the Spider. No letter, or formal message was required to explain it for anyone else what this meant, yet it likely came little as a shock to others.
___________________________________________________________________________________

Sorry for the long post, but all four Tellegara characters at the place are each in different places... so, yeah.

-snip-

A pale orc in the tavern clutched onto the bag of coins Garcias had payed him to spy on House Shar-Shazzar and quietly cursed his luck. Of course he was now going to be expected to urgently deal with a riot!

Without being noticed, he payed for his unfinished meal and hurried to the castle. He failed to find Garcias, but he did succeed in finding Tyler, who he recognized. Quickly he informed the Blade about the stirring trouble in the city. Tyler thanked the orc, payed him a single gold coin, then immediately organized a small army of watchmen to come with him to quell the unrest.

200 fully armed watchmen and 10 members of the Blades soon found themselves confronting a full-blown riot on the streets.

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Caer Aard

With the horde of frenzied revol mutinering pack of peasants, and workers met with the display of watchman, and guards all stacked toggether at the end of the market within the district, little did it help to calm down the masses. What started out as a loud, yet pacifististic protest soon enveloped into a full-born rampage. With the rocks being hailed against the shields of the watchmen, and stalls flipped over as barriacades the entire square became a chaotic battlfield with anything but control over. It only made it worse having it being the way out, and into the slums, forcing people to being even reluctant to stand idly by seeing this.
With the might, and sword that the guards had, it only became another arguement in the instigators, and inciting agents sitting behind the front urging people to rise up.

Even though at least there was a lid placed over the kettle where the mess was going on, it certainly did anything but cool down the situation bring such a intimidating sight against the pillars of society, instead it only solidified the rifts between the classes within Caer Aard.

[The Republic of all]

Klaus von Orgoth was displeased. He was sitting in his tent with comfort around him and yet he was unfulfilled. His tribesmen were angry and there was only so much he could do to control them. If they didn't have war soon there could be a coup and he could never stand that. War was good for business but a civil war would cause the destruction of the mines and all the hard work of his father would come crumbling down. Though the Emperor was dead and there was no real successor it looked like the various lords were starting to act civilly towards each other. There was a majority vote for Teren and a regent would be decided shortly.
A large figure waked into the tent. Covered from head to toe in blood red chhanimal with bits of plate armor strapped on in an ad hoc fashion. His two handed great sword strapped to his back and his old and bloody war club hanging from his belt. “ Ah Gortho, come in”
“Thank yous Boss, the Red Band is ready for your orders”
“Good thank you...”
“ You seem distraught my lord,” The Orc peard in inquisitively
“ I just fear that if there is no threat to unite the tribes I will not be strong enough to hold them together,”
“ Well Boss we Orcs have a saying, the one thing that unites all creatures from slug to elephant and Elf to Goblin, is a love of fighting, I could not imagine a world without a war and I would be quite shocked if at some point in the near future all those great lords when back to slaughtering each other like the times befor the Empire.” “And besides,” Cracking a smile, “ If the tribes to rise up and kill you, Alice will be their to take over.”
“Thanks Gortho that really cheered me up,” Klaus muttered in a half siros manner. Now all I must do is wait Klaus thought.

[Slakonian]

Highever, the Dreadfort

The day was very bright on Highever, Hoster felt the the cold wind from the north hit his face, winter is approaching so fast? it was still mid summer so he happy about it. The harvest was good this month and Duke Hoster was happy about it but he wished for more. For 400 years, after the conquest they were barred from cutting down the wood from the Flent Grove for two reasons; first so that they can be forced to sell their wood and second for not construting their own navy. Why? someone would ask, well when Tyrus II was Emperor of Pandyssium, he wanted to subjucate the independent people of Sahrnia. 15 years campaign and thousands of dead were needed to subjucate Sahrnia which still fell under the banner of the Empire on it's own conditions. The navy was unfortunately something that they could no longer have as the Sahrnia of the old times was famed for it's naval power which humiliated the Imperial Navy many times until the naval battle of Markath Bay which marked the end of the war. Just like the silver mines inside the Dreadfort, the ironwood on Flent Grove or the lost of greater Sahrnia on the other side of the Yaruga River were big wounds on the Threnhold wombs, the treaty for 400 years barred their way to greatness and Hoster wanted to change that as he hoped his liege lord will be persuaded to allow him start the digging and the cutting again so that Vallorion will be feared in the whole realm.

Hoster looked to the headman's block that was re-built once again so that he can get rid of the criminals inside the cells his father had filled all these years. Prooved rapists, murders & bandits will be all today executed so that Hoster can display his power to his smallfolk who entrusted him with their very lives. Hoster saw one by one the criminals round up and ready them for execution, some cried, others looked to the sky or to the ground while some resisted as much as they could as they couldn't accept this moment. He noticed the two bastards sons from his father late wench wife, they were caught in the Imperial Highway with other highwaymen for banditry. Unfortunately for them Hoster will take their heads as well due they thought they will get away for killing people, innocent people who were travelling to their homes or to trade..... Brenner, the wench's first stupid son came closer to him when he saw him with his chains clunging behind him with heavy noise but he was stopped by the guards."Please Hoster save me... this is all a mistake... please SAVE ME DAMN YOU, if your father learns about this". And the a guard from his perosnall retinue hit him with his shield right on his face, his nose had broken and blood was all over to his mouth.The guard anrgrily exclaimed."You speak to Duke Hoster Threnhold worm, those manners are for the whores and the prisoners who fuck you". He laughed and kicked him right to his "precious", Brenner cried not for the pain but for the future in front of him, which was black as his bandit soul.

The men started to walk once again after the small incident, Howland de Brevin was right behind him supervising the execution process as he was the Master-at-Arms of the keep. Mother Katherine, head of the local Chantry of the Faith - the Sahrnian version of the Faith - was saying some rites to the prisoners before they pass to the afterlife whenever stage they go. Slowly it was raining more and more all over the Highever valley, the rain helped the blood and flith to be cleansed from the streets. Howland got next to his liege lord.

"Your lordship, the 4 survivng bandits of which Brennen and Irketh were part of after extensive questioning told us that they group was the only major bandit group operated within Sahrnia but they didn't start here first place due to your harsh crackdown to such.... dissent may call it, no, criminal activity". said Howland while he never took his eyes away from the executed whose one by head rolled down while the people thrilled for the justice being served.

"It is as I had expected, those brigands will eventually make their way inside Sahrnia despite the Imperial Highway isn't even existent here...." he sighed, while his hands on his back were flipping a silver coin with the head of Vanus "the Pious" Rathmis who was responisble for the execution of Meinwen, Bride of the Maker and one true Creatix."We must send troops pass the Yaruga River to greater Sahrnia and fast, if the IX Legion won't take action then I will".

"But my Duke is that truly wise? I mean you want to fly your banner on greater Sahrnian territory, they are not your vassals despite the name of the region shows otherwise". Howland looked to the Duke quite shocked and couldn't believe what he just heard Maybe power corrupts men like him after all?

"Do you take me for a foul". said Hoster in a natural authorative tone who still steadily looked to the prisoners still despite the rain becoming heavy while some the people started to leave."You will use the alias of two delighted so called brothers-in-law as alias as you know them well". He paused while Irketh's head went down with Brennan crying heavily and resisting from ebing send to the headman's block still despite the heavy hit from the retinue soldier."You will go to Nevrast or Umbara as we call it and talk to my great-uncle Viscount Perin whose son alongside with some men you will choose from there pass the border and make both the Counts and the legion to take action against those cunts who think they can rape and pillage my people without no one moves a finger. I have ordered some bandits to be hunged on our side from the Yaruga River as a warning to the other bandits but I fear they will continue to pass, until Lord Saerondr be here whole Vallorion will be full of highwaymen and bandits because the fucking legionnares stay inside their "little" barracks becoming soft while the whole countryside is run rampant with those brigants. Prepare to leave on the morrow, my son will leave with you to Umbara but he will go later to Doriath to ask in my name to raise the levies officialy to combat this theat before it's too late. I only hope my daughter persuades his lordship quicker but he won't if he is not present as he would like to assess the situation himself as wise men would have.... Nevertheless we must act for own sake at least until official auction is given by the Lord himself".

Howland left the side of the Duke and turned his back and started to walk towards the castle. He could hear Brennan screaming and crying and it suddenly stopped, probably his head was cut off as well...

"Red" Jenny Dάndzialf

"Red" Jenny had ordred the guards within the estate to become more while she scheduled patrols around the estate as well for more security as she heard the riots around the city rising. She used a trianglur system of patrol so that them men on the gate from the inside being replaced constantly by an other patrol while they started their own another was half way patrolling. Every two hours the whole guards changed with new ones so that they others can rest. She hoped she could be part of her lord's feast in the name of her fahter... she hoped for both the honor and maybe someone noble falling down from her beauty which was released after she left her armor aside and wore a beautiful purple tunic and a grey lion pelt to keep her warm and this suddenly cold night. Many men thought she was a sucumbuss becasue of her beauty but that was only her elven mother's characteristics on her.

[Annihilators of Chan Island]

Castle Caer Aard

Kevin Tellegara welcomed the arrival of Otto Lichtenburg and Maria Camp. With him were 5 lesser nobles from various areas in the Imperial Heartlands. The presence of both Götz von Bernstein and Jonas was not a problem and they too were offered seats at the table. Kevin ensured he sat between Otto and Maria enabling him to be able to talk to them both at the same time whilst at the same time not disturbing the minor lords and ladies at the table.

The hall was not the biggest in the world, but more than adequate for the purposes of this meal.

Soon the music started. It was nothing of much extravagance, just a few minstrels providing traditional Heartland tunes that were not unfamiliar in many other parts of the Empire. Kevin Tellegara had become famous in the Empire for his modesty and usual abhorrence of much of the finer things in life, although that view of course had to be balanced out with the occasional indulgence of course....

After a starter which consisted of a variety of small plates of munchies, from Olives to small quail eggs to even some frogs from the Marshes, as well as mostly jokes and small talk, the main course arrived.
The main course, a whole Morrensval'kir boar roasted on a spit, was indeed a thing to behold. The creature must have been the size of 3 men when it was killed, with tusks as large as candlestick protruding from its mouth. The meat itself was rich in game flavor, reinforced at will either by a strong, thick gravy or a smooth pepper sauce imported from an Augrilac puppet state to that country's south.

As a wine-connesseur did the rounds, offering all the guests their choice from a selection of expensive and well-aged wines from every realm in the Empire (a deliberate move), Kevin turned to both of his special guests and asked'' Now, while this has all been wonderful, may we begin the process of discussing the future of our beloved Empire?''

Speaking to them both quietly so as not to ruin the fun for everyone else, Kevin told Otto and Maria his proposals'' I am sure you have both guessed as to why I have invited you here tonight. I'm afraid House Tellegara was never one for smooth silky words wrapped in honey, so I'll make my proposal short.

The first matter is the matter of the regency. I am sure you will agree with me that there is nobody in the realm alive today who is more qualified both by tradition and by experience to become the new regent than my older brother, Belrond. He has been keeping the empire on a steady course for several decades now, and believe me I don't exaggerate to say that he has stopped more than one disaster right in its tracks! Did you know that the late Emperor Orius was planning to impose a tariff of 50% on foreign traders just 2 years ago? He also vowed to ban the training of archers in all the realms except the Imperial Heartlands, in a select few colleges. My brother Belrond the Steward was the only one who actually stopped these fits of madness. I hope you understand if I say that Belrond will make the best regent for our young emperor until such time as Tered grows up.

As you are probably aware, the current Lord High Militant has announced his plans to retire to his estate and live out the rest of his days in peace... which means that a new one is going to be needed. For this task House Tellegara has no suitable candidates, I'm afraid. I would be interested to hear if you have any proposals.

I hope you agree with me on the idea that constitutional reform is not something we currently need. With the Augrillac Empire preparing for war, I hope you understand when I say that even opening the floodgates of reform will do nothing but divide us into our smallest components in the very hour when we need it least. The problem with proposals of change, as my brother is keen to point out at times, is that everyone ''reformer'' has a radically different idea as to what reforms they wish to see. So I would propose that we vote to block any change in the system until such time as there is long-term peace on the horizon.''

Quickly he turns to Otto, anticipating what he was going to say'' I do apologize for this bitter meat I offer for the men of the Republic. To sweeten it, House Tellegara proposes that the crown, in exchange for your support at the Caer Aard, will provide the republic with three things. One, we will lower the taxes on Röken and the Kopper Marshes to a mutually agreed rate. Two, the Imperial treasury will provide 2.000.000 gold coins to the Röken economy, specifically I had in mind a repaving of the Dogeway road from Nosbrücken to Tusken's Dale, thereby making it easier for our respective realms to trade with each other by land as well as by sea. The third and final reward we would provide would be to offer a second post of chamberlain to a man of your- or the Republic council's - choice.''

Turning to Maria, Kevin then explains'' Of course, there will be rewards for your support in tomorrows vote as well. The first reward shall be that the Imperial crown will pay for all the costs and provide much of the labour that will be needed to build a fortress on one of Grecia's far western islands. The proposed fortress will act as a lighthouse to prevent ships from crashing into those islands of your region, as a small port to better allow Grecia to import and export its grains abroad and it will also act as a key defensive structure should the Augrillac Empire ever choose to invade the Empire via Grecia. The second reward will be the promotion of any person of your choice as chamberlain. This person will be replacing a chamberlain from Deon who has expressed his wish to retire. My final, and biggest offer, is in marriage. If I remember right, your son Werner is unmarried, like my niece Fremolia... I feel that such a union between our two houses would be strong and mutually beneficial indeed. ''

Satisfied that he had made his offer, he almost jumps when he remembers the final term he wished to have'' However, there is one last thing House Tellegara would wish to see from you... as you saw today, and as you my lady so well argued against, House Shar-Shazzar has in practice advocated treason. They longed for the fall of the Empire, and spat on all the customs and traditions of the Caer Aard with their rude walking out of the council chamber. House Tellegara, as the protectors of the Empire, will not let these slights go unpunished. We would ask for a vote in favor for the issuing of an arrest warrant for our necromancer peers and should they resist, as I suspect they will do, I would hope that the Imperial Heartlands can look to the Republic and to Grecia for vital military support in that conflict.''

[Annihilators of Chan Island]

The steward, a chamberlain and two knights arrived at the palace pleased at what they saw. Belrond couldn't help but smile. The palace just demonstrated right there the power and wealth of the Imperial Heartlands, and was proof of the glory of the empire. What disunited nation could build a palace like it... and then just sell it on the market to House Thoront?

He knocked on the door, which was answered by a servant with the badge of House Thoront on his suit. Belrond tipped his head and announced'' I am Duke Belrond, steward of the Empire. Tell your liege that I have arrived for the planned dinner. Also tell them that I apologize for my lateness. I had to write a letter to an Imperial Army battalion in the Silver Cities. Collecting taxes, as is routine, but I would not want 5000 troops with the badge of House Rahtis on their armor up there if House Shar-Shazzar rebels.''

The steward then scraped the mud off their shoes and then stepped inside and waits in the lobby.

The servant nodded solemnly. "Of course my lord," the young lad said with respect before scurrying off to inform his masters of their guests' arrival.

Belrond and his attendees were brought to the illustrious dining hall, where Lady Elano and her three children sat smiling, Elano calling in a cheerful voice, "Welcome! Welcome, my lord! It is truly an honor. Come, while there's time for political talk later, for now, let us enjoy the pleasures of the night and of the good life."

No sooner had the queen spoke then did a swarm of servants unleash a horde of mouthwatering dishes toward the tables of nobles. There was swan still sputtering and oozing fat from its golden skin, fat calves and lambs still roasting on spits, fish crackling on iron plates, the smell of spices like rosemary, oregano, basil, cinnamon, turmeric, nutmeg all swirling about the room like the garments of a dervish. There were fresh fruits and vegetables picked from the imperial heartlands, some served in bowls and others caramelized with the meats, some stuffed with concoctions of sweet and sour and tang and bitterness and others still crisp and glistening straight from the fields. Freshly baked breads, tarts, cakes, and pies of all sorts accompanied by both hard and soft cheeses soon entered the fray. Fresh water, strong mead, and aged wines flowed from jugs like the bursting of a dam.

As lords gouged themselves and drank to access, two dancers, one male, one female, took a place at the front of the room where all could see, barely dressed in black silk garments that hugged their forms and wearing embellished masks that concealed their identities. Suddenly, the band stopped, and all grew more silent as the two mysterious figures stood opposite one another, close but not yet touching. Whispers were interrupted by obnoxious whistles, and suddenly, the music pierced the hall with a might like that of a military charge.

Within a second, the masked entertainers were alive, a gust of motion and passion as they grasped each other and danced intimately to the rapid, enflamed Gunradoan instruments. All noise stopped as the onlookers sat mesmerized, hearts beating like the tremors of a minor earthquake, some small thing that did no permanent harm and yet stopped daily life in its tracks. The dancers' bodies were perfectly tuned to the song, their bones and muscles performing the very exercise of the notes more than their own wills.

The spectacle was no more than a few moments, yet its complex beauty enraptured all. As soon as it ended, the hall erupted in thunderous applause and shouts of merriment. And just as those dancers perfectly executed the contractions of a primordial muse giving birth to some ancient hymn, so did Lady Elano begin the delicate volta of her own art, the dance of politics.

She looked to Lord Belmont with a small, wry smile, her voice singsong yet self-aware of the serious discussions they were about to begin. "Well, Lord High Steward, I hope we have entertained you this evening, shown you the benefits of a friendship with Gunrado. I assure you no one wants to see the mutual rise of our houses more than I. And so I have invited you to dine with me this evening to discuss tomorrow-a day more important than most are willing to admit-one that can decide the fate of the empire entirely."

Her voice took a tone of reason, of mutual understanding, "I believe you or your son Garcias would make a fine Regent for our little emperor, though I will support you with my vote for whoever you think is best for the regency. You shall have the full support of our armies and ships, and we will be willing-" she said carefully, "-with some negotiation, of course- to make a more significant financial contribution to the imperial crown than we currently enjoy. I also think this talk of 'moving around the emperor' is utterly preposterous, and you can be assured we will protect the emperor and make sure he remains here in the imperial city…who knows what sort of outlandish customs or ideas he would consume under the tutelage of one of the lesser races."

She continued boldly, "Pandyssium is an empire of man above all, and one under the absolute power of the House of Rahtis. All this talk of reform is outright treason, in my opinion. Though you may not have voiced it in the Caer Aard, I think you feel the same. However, if our noble plan to bring the empire to its traditional roots is going to succeed, you must understand that we of Gunrado must be present and with some authority in matters of state in order to fully carry out the will of the emperor and his regent."

She looked toward her eldest son Gurren, who gave her an imperceptible nod and addressed Lord Belmont with confidence, "Of course, mother. If our great navy and our mighty armies, both Gunradoan and imperial, are going to quell any race or lord that even hints at defiance in the coming days, we must have a commander that is able to crush them into submission once more. And for this I ask that you appoint me, Lord High Steward, to the position of Lord High Militant. I have been trained in the art of war since I was five years old, my lord, in the ways of the Blood Knight, in both personal combat and tactical knowledge. Not only that, but as heir to my father, I am also prepared to rule, and will always be there to advise you in times of crisis should you request it."

Gurren of the Thoront continued with assurance, "Though I am still a foreigner in these lands, and if you honor me with the office, I shall need allies I can trust at court-we both do. That is why we also ask that you appoint my brother to the council of chamberlains."

Yillo seamlessly entered the conversation after listening attentively and waiting for the most tactful moment to speak with her natural grace, "If you do not trust our generous offer, my lord- think it too good to be true-I am prepared to wed your son to solidify our alliance. I am well versed in the matters of court and will serve House Tellegara as steadfastly as my own."

Elano chimed in again, "Together, we can become the most powerful houses in the empire-little Teren's regency will go smoothly, and when he is ready to ascend the throne, we shall finally have a true, wise emperor, like his glorious ancestor," she continued urgently, "but if we do not act swiftly this night, we will not have the votes to secure you, your son, or your choice's regency with our houses alone, and we may lose out in the vote over that disastrous 'parliament' that will cripple our power. We must contact House Wolfson, House Camp, and the Republic this very night and guarantee their support as well. While the people of Wolf's Island and the Grecians are loyal to the emperor and therefore to our cause, I believe we shall have their votes. But the Republic…we must act swiftly to persuade them. What say you to all of this that we have spoken before you?" She said with anticipation.

All of Belrond's companions were so impressed with the delights of this feast that quickly they became useless for these negotiations.

The steward however was on his guard. Years of being steward had taught Belrond a thing or two about what to expect from certain diplomatic situations, and something did not feel quite right here.

Nonetheless, he still had to chuckle when he heard the proposals of House Thoront. He comments to Gurren'' Well, those are a lot of proposals you have there... and it pleases this old man that they are as sensible as they are. As you already spotted, the current Lord High Militant is indeed planning on retiring and I think having young Gurren here would be a wonderful thing to have at the post...however, I must also warn Gurren here that the laws of the Magistratum can sometimes seem like a nightmare, especially the unwritten ones! Also, do not say you are a foreigner here. We are all Imperial subjects first and foremost in the Heartlands.''

Turning to Elano, he says'' It delights me to see you have a similar view on reform as I do. Especially in this time, reform is just simply not a realistic desire and I often feel that those who ask for it are simply looking for ways to take the Empire down a notch. The talk of moving the Emperor around especially only looks good inside the head. In the real world, we know that that will only entail huge sums of money being wasted on having the Emperor moving around with his train like some kind of uncivilized nomad! It would also make the day to day running of the Empire impossible and how would any news ever reach him?! As we are in agreement here, I would also hope that you will support my motion tomorrow to issue an arrest warrant for the members of House Shar-Shazzar. And if they resist, as they likely will, I hope I'm correct if I say House Tellegara can look to House Thoront for generous military support in that conflict.''

Taking a deep breath and sighing, Belrond then says'' Sometimes I really don't know what to do with that boy. No, Garcias would be a terrible regent for the young Emperor. I should not be saying this, as his father, but I would actually violate the scriptures of the Faith and place bets on whether Garcias would have Terren murdered just to have himself crowned as emperor! The worst part is, given time I'd almost certainly win. No, I'm afraid I am the only suitable candidate for regent. I promise to look out for the interests of House Thoront as regent. The way I could best do this would be to possible place a Thoront in position of the steward when I'm regent?''

Taking a small drink of wine, he then comments'' As for the votes we need.... I have had my brother Kevin to arrange a dinner with both House Camp and the Republic. If the dinner goes well, then Kevin will ensure that the Republic support us in this coming Caer Aard. As for Wolfson, I'm afraid that I do not have all my family here in Caer Aard. My son Garcias, on the other hand, I suspect will likely draw in an ally even I can't guess at. I would be surprised if even right now he is plotting with the Tarembors or Eriadunns right now bringing them to support our causes. I have no illusions about what the boy is capable of, and that ultimately his interests lie in himself and only himself, but for now the interests of the Empire and the interests of Garcias Tellegara have a surprisingly huge overlap.''

Sipping his wine again, ominously he says'' Let's all hope it stays that way.''

[Annihilators of Chan Island]

-lots of snip-

Caer Aard

The slums soon became louder, and louder, having people shouting like wild wolves on the street, and tossing rocks, and stones across the markets against any representing '' The noblitity '' Even though this may only still be a part of the labour force below the citizenship, it gave a domino effect on the people besides them. Soon people came with their own reason why to toss their stones, and another reason why to not show up to work, and with every neigherbourhood that wanted their own reason to stand up, another had found a different reason. A open ocean of masses soon started to shout for the depose of the aristocracy, rather wanting to change to the progressive social policies they heard of from Ninurtusur. Sure, some of it came from the mouths of the instigators working for Sandro, but none the less the chaos was starting to divide people up, thus having the ones look to another Lord to protect them, that being Lord Sandro, and his promises of liberity.

However with the rumors of a start of a revolt, the actions of the Lords could define the likely future of what came next.

A pale orc in the tavern clutched onto the bag of coins Garcias had payed him to spy on House Shar-Shazzar and quietly cursed his luck. Of course he was now going to be expected to urgently deal with a riot!

Without being noticed, he payed for his unfinished meal and hurried to the castle. He failed to find Garcias, but he did succeed in finding Tyler, who he recognized. Quickly he informed the Blade about the stirring trouble in the city. Tyler thanked the orc, payed him a single gold coin, then immediately organized a small army of watchmen to come with him to quell the unrest.

200 fully armed watchmen and 10 members of the Blades soon found themselves confronting a full-blown riot on the streets.

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-more snip-

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Garcias Tellegara looked over his shoulder to see if anyone was following them. As it was, nobody was paying attention to Garcias or his five mercenaries.

Carefully but purposefully, he went up to the door and knocked on the door. The guard there replied with what was probably an automated response at this point, considering the tone of voice'' No visitors!''

Garcias chuckled, then says'' Even for a chamberlain of the royal court? Your master is surely not that exhausted from yesterday's arguing. ''

The guard at this point opened the door and gave him a stern look'' No entry.''

''Say, you do realize who you are talking to, right? I am Garcias Tellegara, Chamberlain of the court and son of the steward. We can either do this the easy way, or the hard way. The easy way is that you let me in, I pay you let's say 15 gold coins? Then I wander in and have an incredibly important conversation with your liege. The hard way is that you keep turning me away, so I happily shrug and walk off. I will stand at the door first thing in the morning, and still end up having a chat with your liege, but I will have you marked and you will find yourself dead by the end of the year. Now, my fair gentleman, which will it be?''

Guard'' Right this way.''

OOC: Who wants a chat with him?[/quote]


Garcias wondered in with his five mercenaries and found the man he was looking for: Edmond of House Ranger.

Taking the man by surprise (after paying the guard handsomely) Garcias wastes no time getting his point across'' Hello my fair south man. You may recognize me as Garcias Tellegara from the Caer Aard today. As the son of the steward, it surprised me to find I sympathized with many of your legitimate concerns. Of course you should have extra powers down in the South, as the rightful Wardens. Sadly, I cannot offer independence at this time, but I can offer you a far more relaxed time in ruling your territory.''

Pulling out a coin purse, Garcias examined it for a second then says'' These particular coins are special. They are copper and silver coins all... just regular currency, I assure you.''

Symbolically placing the coin purse in the hands of Edmond, Garcias continues'' All those coins were taken as taxes for the Empire from the lands of House Ranger... and see that I give them back to you. See this as both a token of my friendship and a symbol of what is to come... an age in which the Empire finally listens to the concerns of the south and of House Ranger and repays you what is due... but first, all I need though, to be able to carry out my little south men friendly agenda for you, is just a few votes in the Caer Aard to swing in a certain direction... interested?''

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Tyler Tellegara was not very troubled with the prospect of Garcias having started the whole prison riot thing... after all, he was too busy putting down the citizenry.

He called for reinforcements and received another 100 watchmen and 50 knights in due course.

It was obvious the riot was hot, but lucky for everyone Tyler Tellegara was a good lid for it. In shorter time than could have been suspected, he managed to isolate some key agitators... and was horrified, but not surprised to find the badge of House Shar-Shazzar on their persons.

[Paketo]

Castle Caer Aard

Kevin Tellegara welcomed the arrival of Otto Lichtenburg and Maria Camp. With him were 5 lesser nobles from various areas in the Imperial Heartlands. The presence of both Götz von Bernstein and Jonas was not a problem and they too were offered seats at the table. Kevin ensured he sat between Otto and Maria enabling him to be able to talk to them both at the same time whilst at the same time not disturbing the minor lords and ladies at the table.

The hall was not the biggest in the world, but more than adequate for the purposes of this meal.

Soon the music started. It was nothing of much extravagance, just a few minstrels providing traditional Heartland tunes that were not unfamiliar in many other parts of the Empire. Kevin Tellegara had become famous in the Empire for his modesty and usual abhorrence of much of the finer things in life, although that view of course had to be balanced out with the occasional indulgence of course....

After a starter which consisted of a variety of small plates of munchies, from Olives to small quail eggs to even some frogs from the Marshes, as well as mostly jokes and small talk, the main course arrived.
The main course, a whole Morrensval'kir boar roasted on a spit, was indeed a thing to behold. The creature must have been the size of 3 men when it was killed, with tusks as large as candlestick protruding from its mouth. The meat itself was rich in game flavor, reinforced at will either by a strong, thick gravy or a smooth pepper sauce imported from an Augrilac puppet state to that country's south.

As a wine-connesseur did the rounds, offering all the guests their choice from a selection of expensive and well-aged wines from every realm in the Empire (a deliberate move), Kevin turned to both of his special guests and asked'' Now, while this has all been wonderful, may we begin the process of discussing the future of our beloved Empire?''

Speaking to them both quietly so as not to ruin the fun for everyone else, Kevin told Otto and Maria his proposals'' I am sure you have both guessed as to why I have invited you here tonight. I'm afraid House Tellegara was never one for smooth silky words wrapped in honey, so I'll make my proposal short.

The first matter is the matter of the regency. I am sure you will agree with me that there is nobody in the realm alive today who is more qualified both by tradition and by experience to become the new regent than my older brother, Belrond. He has been keeping the empire on a steady course for several decades now, and believe me I don't exaggerate to say that he has stopped more than one disaster right in its tracks! Did you know that the late Emperor Orius was planning to impose a tariff of 50% on foreign traders just 2 years ago? He also vowed to ban the training of archers in all the realms except the Imperial Heartlands, in a select few colleges. My brother Belrond the Steward was the only one who actually stopped these fits of madness. I hope you understand if I say that Belrond will make the best regent for our young emperor until such time as Tered grows up.

As you are probably aware, the current Lord High Militant has announced his plans to retire to his estate and live out the rest of his days in peace... which means that a new one is going to be needed. For this task House Tellegara has no suitable candidates, I'm afraid. I would be interested to hear if you have any proposals.

I hope you agree with me on the idea that constitutional reform is not something we currently need. With the Augrillac Empire preparing for war, I hope you understand when I say that even opening the floodgates of reform will do nothing but divide us into our smallest components in the very hour when we need it least. The problem with proposals of change, as my brother is keen to point out at times, is that everyone ''reformer'' has a radically different idea as to what reforms they wish to see. So I would propose that we vote to block any change in the system until such time as there is long-term peace on the horizon.''

Quickly he turns to Otto, anticipating what he was going to say'' I do apologize for this bitter meat I offer for the men of the Republic. To sweeten it, House Tellegara proposes that the crown, in exchange for your support at the Caer Aard, will provide the republic with three things. One, we will lower the taxes on Röken and the Kopper Marshes to a mutually agreed rate. Two, the Imperial treasury will provide 2.000.000 gold coins to the Röken economy, specifically I had in mind a repaving of the Dogeway road from Nosbrücken to Tusken's Dale, thereby making it easier for our respective realms to trade with each other by land as well as by sea. The third and final reward we would provide would be to offer a second post of chamberlain to a man of your- or the Republic council's - choice.''

Turning to Maria, Kevin then explains'' Of course, there will be rewards for your support in tomorrows vote as well. The first reward shall be that the Imperial crown will pay for all the costs and provide much of the labour that will be needed to build a fortress on one of Grecia's far western islands. The proposed fortress will act as a lighthouse to prevent ships from crashing into those islands of your region, as a small port to better allow Grecia to import and export its grains abroad and it will also act as a key defensive structure should the Augrillac Empire ever choose to invade the Empire via Grecia. The second reward will be the promotion of any person of your choice as chamberlain. This person will be replacing a chamberlain from Deon who has expressed his wish to retire. My final, and biggest offer, is in marriage. If I remember right, your son Werner is unmarried, like my niece Fremolia... I feel that such a union between our two houses would be strong and mutually beneficial indeed. ''

Satisfied that he had made his offer, he almost jumps when he remembers the final term he wished to have'' However, there is one last thing House Tellegara would wish to see from you... as you saw today, and as you my lady so well argued against, House Shar-Shazzar has in practice advocated treason. They longed for the fall of the Empire, and spat on all the customs and traditions of the Caer Aard with their rude walking out of the council chamber. House Tellegara, as the protectors of the Empire, will not let these slights go unpunished. We would ask for a vote in favor for the issuing of an arrest warrant for our necromancer peers and should they resist, as I suspect they will do, I would hope that the Imperial Heartlands can look to the Republic and to Grecia for vital military support in that conflict.''

Maria was surprised at the sheer extravagance of the meal that they were currently dining on. Grecian meals were usually very practical letting no part of a animal go to waste. Hearty stews, baked brains, sweet meats, and even pickled pigs were all mainstays around Grecia. Their only truly extravagant mainstay was the wine and beer. Grecian fruits were always ripe and juicy making their wines a highly wanted item across the kingdom and their golden grains made some of the best beer. It truly was a farmer nation and rightfully earned its name as a bread basket of the empire.

As she dined, making small talk to others her and there, she spoke quietly to Jonas about what exactly they were called here for.

"There has to be a angle to this Jonas" spoke Maria very low "they must want something out of us. I do not know whether it is the vote on the morrow or our support in some other endeavor but there is surely a angle"

Jonas spoke back just as quietly "I agree my lady. To have the best archers in the empire on their side would make them even more powerful in a battle. The traitorious necromancers have talked of treason during the meeting and I believe they may want our support against them"

Maria smiled before responding "Always thinking ahead Jonas, that's my head guard. You are absolutely right about the necromancers and my open dissatisfaction with their ways most likely made them think of Grecia as a ally. If the offer comes, let us bide our time a bit to see if they will offer anything for the support against the necromancers"

Jonas simply nodded in response, both returning to their meal of boar. Maria was very surprised when she found the wine server coming around with a prime Grecian selection. 235 year old Al Mansa Di Medci, the best wine brand within Grecia made only with grapes grown on the side of a dormant Volcano. It was truly a expense to have that kind of wine though she knew it was probaly to help influence her decision to her offer.

Maria had already drank several goblets of wine before Kevin began to speak. She had not foreseen him asking to put Belrond as regent nor that he would reveal the king was planning to ban archery in most of the empire. It was probaly a move to stop huntsman in the royal forest but it would have left the empire without a large amount of ranged troops to support her armies. Belrond had done the empire great service in his prevention though Kevin's word could just be clever lies to sway her.

The next proposal of his was to block any reform until after peace was to be easily seen. Maria hated to say it but she agreed no reform could take place at the moment less the empire become even deeper divided. She had to agree this would be for the best.

It was then that Kevin began his offers to make sure they were swayed. The offer to the republic was a good one but the offer to Grecua was one she could not pass up. To be able to place a fortress in the Carolina Islands would be a victory for the camps. It has been for a longtime a place of lawlessness and Grecua never had funds available to build a new fortress there. One that would instill peace in the islands. He next offered to place a steward and it was a position her brother could fill quite nicely. The marriage was a either way issue with it having a almost indifference to Maria but Werner would need a wife soon and to get a alliance with it as well would be a great victory.

Then came what Maria had expected, support against the necromancers. With what they had offered, Maria was ready to give her support against them.

She began her response in a normal tone to hide her excitedness at was offered
"Lord Kevin, with all you have offered and given as evidence, Grecia will vote with Belrond for regent and block any moves to reform at the current. Your offer of financing the building of a needed port fortress is appreciated and accepted. Your offer of giving a member of family a place as a steward is accepted and I will put forward my brother for the role. He is a great mind and great warrior but could not fill the position of lord high militant making the Camps having no suitable candidates as well for that position. In response to your marriage proposal, the House of Camp accepts your offer to my son and your neice being married. Then in conclusion, you will have the bows have the Camp against the Shar-Shazzar. Their outright talk of treason can not go unpunished"

[Kaledoria]

Kevin Tellegara - Röken - Grecia meeting

"In fact," Götz von Bernstein addressed Kevin Tellegara's last point first, "I have no proof but on my way here a met some troublemakers, drinking each other into rage and fantasying about 'the revolution of the labor class' or 'hailing rocks against the shields of watchmen' or 'flipping over stalls as barriacades'. Could have gotten troublesome but they took me for a me mere sailor, who napped this fine looking shirt from the cargo." He chuckled. "Nevertheless, one of them, a miller by the looks of the hands said something about - and I quote - the 'progressive social policies from Ninurtusur'. For once, I never knew, they had any such policies except for their liberal view on dark magic and their blasphemous church. But secondly, I didn't know, the commoners around here knew such eloquent words and I would guess, I know, who had put them into their mouth. ... Excellent meal, by the way."

Götz took another plateful of the meat, unlike Otto Lichtenburg he had no problem mixing business and fun.

The Burgmeister was more concerned with the matters of the election: "General trade tariff are in fact, what the Republic fears most, you touched the right spot there." Otto smiled. He wasn't sure about the truthfulness of this statement and he did not want to take rumors that came up every few years for anything in this matter. However, the restriction on archery sounded outlandish even for Emperor Orius and combining those two perfectly fitting points to show the steward's greatness, he lent towards not believing them. "But of course your brother knew that higher tariffs on foreign goods would mean less and more expensive foreign goods for your subjects, which would especially disgruntle the nobility. It was in the best interest of the Imperial Magistratium when the Steward stopped these plans, too." Then he got to the offered gifts for the Republic: "This is indeed a generous offer but the economy of the Republic is doing fine and the tax rate is where it was mutually agreed on by the emperor's fa... by young Emperor Teren's grandfather and the college of Burgmeisters, I think it was about 50 years ago.
Nevertheless! Persuasion is not needed, as far as the regency is concerned. If I want to vote for Lord Belrond, I do have the power to do so and of all candidates I can see at the moment, he in fact is the one I would prefer."

The capital 'BUT' was hanging in the room, while Otto drank a sip of wine, then he released it. "But in terms of need of reform, we do not agree. Yes, different people might expect different thinks from empowering the position of the high lords in imperial matters but I do think that compromises can be found between those points. And I believe, that they will be an improvement over the status quo. For example, I would be very willing to include a chapter in the new law, that in times of war, the Emperor does in fact rule unchecked -within limits- to allow fast and consonant military action. Of course we would define different clauses for offensive wars and those to the defense of the empire as it is distinguished in the levy laws, already but those are details. Your House's categorical stand against any change makes compromises impossible.
An empire, ruled by a council of the Rulers of the Realms but led by a regent - and one day an Emperor - who is rooted in the old ideals of Pandyssium, this looks like the most desirable goal."

As he had almost forgotten the last point he rushed to add: "Oh, concerning the position of Lord High Militant ... Well, suggesting anyone below the peerage of a count would seam insulting to the nobles, so I could only suggest one of the Greater Chieftains of the March. Ferocious warriors or disciplined soldiers with much battle experience against the wild tribes south of the border. But right now, I can not praise one for having the greater strategical abilities that would be advisable for a Lord High Militant."

He leaned back and looked to Götz, who had stopped eating. The young man's lips silently formed two words: "two! - millions!"

[Nasaira]

Caer Aard, Cauis Acuilis

Cauis Acuilis sat at the table with his Lord taking a sip of wine every now and then but keeping himself reserved. Cauis did not trust other lords of the empire, nor did he enjoy being in their presence. At this meeting Cauis had a mission, that was to ensure the safety of his Lord.

While he did expect anything to happen at this meeting Cauis did not want to take any risk with his liege lords life. When Cauis was no more then 7 years old his father made him swear loyalty to the house of Eriadunn, a oath that Cauis has never forgot. Every task, or decision has been made only to better serve his Lord.

Cauis found it to be a great honor when Lord Eriadunn asked him to accompany him to Caer Aard. Of course he did not say no, and Cauis kept his reservations about what he thought about the meeting and about the other lords of the empire.

The feast was amazing and the food was delicious. Cauis only enjoyed a bite here and there but filling up on the amazing food in front of him, for fear that if he had more then his fill it would adversely affect his ability to protect his Lord.

For centuries Cauis's house have been the protectors of House Eridunn. Every male in House Acuilis have sworn loyalty to House Eridunn and all have followed the oath to their graves. Now Cauis, the last surviving member of House Acuilis, it was his turn to uphold the oath.

Sitting at the table he kept careful watch on Lord Eriadunn, not taking his vigilant watch off of him. The distrust that Cauis harbored for the other lords was one that he could not shake. It appeared as if no foul play would take action here, that thought did not ease Cauis's mind. For now he would just sit in silence keeping the watch over his Lord.

[The Starlight]

Caer Aard

Erlend nodded. Saerondr had, once again, adequately summed up the state of things. Saerondr might be an elf, but Erlend couldn't help but start to take a liking to the Lord's clear head and wise counsel. "I find myself once more in agreement, Saerondr. For the most part. A human reformist candidate is probably the most likely to adequately challenge Belrond for the regency. But I would not suggest myself, oh no. I am too grumpy, and too disdainful of the snakepit that is the Imperial Magistratum. Instead, why not a man who has spent the better part of the last decade in the lion's den?" Erlend patted his nephew on the shoulder, and Domnall flashed a nervous smile. "Indeed," Domnall said, "I have eight years experiance at the office of Provost Marshal. If elected, I would do my best to encourage more . . Docile reforms based on my uncle's proposal. I'm afraid I would have to play quite the impartial statesman however, in order to dissolve the worst suspicions and keep a knife out of my back for as long as possible. That is of course assuming that what's left of the Empire's unity does not fall into the horse shit, as we say in Eriadha." He turned back to Erlend, who picked up the thread from there.

"Alas, Tis true, we are at a military disadvantage currently. But if things turn out as badly as they look, then our troops will be fighting for their homes, families, and livelihoods when the blows begin, and that will count for much. And if House Tellegara and their potential allies raise their armies against us simply for proposing reform to a flawed system, then we will have been right all along, won't we? Still, I don't imagine two houses will accomplish much tomorrow. Most of the other houses here in the north seem most supportive of reform. It would be wise to contact them, if you haven't already taken the liberty of doing so. Also, Otto von Lichtenburg of Roken approached me earlier, telling me of his support for my proposal. However, I think he may be understandably reluctant to support someone other than Belrond. If he could be convinced that Belrond is in fact the greatest risk he could take, and that what we're putting together is not a power grab but a last-gasp attempt to not only save the Empire but to improve it, he may be our man. It's likely to be a tough sell, though." Erlend sat back, awaiting Saerondr's take.

"I like your idea, Erlend. My vote shall go to our Provost Marshal Domnall then. As for a knife in your back, I am sure that Ellyn will be able to prevent that."

"Indeed, that does give us a valid reason, if they raise armies against us. I believe my wife is contacting many of the non-human leaders and houses, as they generally are the most supportive of reform. As for Otto von Lichtenburg, it could work, but I fear that he may be too deep into the Tellegara's hand to switch to our side. However, as I said, it could work."

"Also, about the Imperial Magistratum. The Lord High Militant position lies free, and if one of our houses, or our allies could secure that, it would give us even greater influence over the happenings of Pandyssium. Any possible candidates? My best pick from my house would be my firstborn, Elvuldur, but there could be some arguments that he is an elf and too "inexperienced," which is untrue." Saerondr said.

[Mesrane]

[quote="Mesrane";p="23284585"
Caer Aard

Erlend nodded. Saerondr had, once again, adequately summed up the state of things. Saerondr might be an elf, but Erlend couldn't help but start to take a liking to the Lord's clear head and wise counsel. "I find myself once more in agreement, Saerondr. For the most part. A human reformist candidate is probably the most likely to adequately challenge Belrond for the regency. But I would not suggest myself, oh no. I am too grumpy, and too disdainful of the snakepit that is the Imperial Magistratum. Instead, why not a man who has spent the better part of the last decade in the lion's den?" Erlend patted his nephew on the shoulder, and Domnall flashed a nervous smile. "Indeed," Domnall said, "I have eight years experiance at the office of Provost Marshal. If elected, I would do my best to encourage more . . Docile reforms based on my uncle's proposal. I'm afraid I would have to play quite the impartial statesman however, in order to dissolve the worst suspicions and keep a knife out of my back for as long as possible. That is of course assuming that what's left of the Empire's unity does not fall into the horse shit, as we say in Eriadha." He turned back to Erlend, who picked up the thread from there.

"Alas, Tis true, we are at a military disadvantage currently. But if things turn out as badly as they look, then our troops will be fighting for their homes, families, and livelihoods when the blows begin, and that will count for much. And if House Tellegara and their potential allies raise their armies against us simply for proposing reform to a flawed system, then we will have been right all along, won't we? Still, I don't imagine two houses will accomplish much tomorrow. Most of the other houses here in the north seem most supportive of reform. It would be wise to contact them, if you haven't already taken the liberty of doing so. Also, Otto von Lichtenburg of Roken approached me earlier, telling me of his support for my proposal. However, I think he may be understandably reluctant to support someone other than Belrond. If he could be convinced that Belrond is in fact the greatest risk he could take, and that what we're putting together is not a power grab but a last-gasp attempt to not only save the Empire but to improve it, he may be our man. It's likely to be a tough sell, though." Erlend sat back, awaiting Saerondr's take.

"I like your idea, Erlend. My vote shall go to our Provost Marshal Domnall then. As for a knife in your back, I am sure that Ellyn will be able to prevent that."

"Indeed, that does give us a valid reason, if they raise armies against us. I believe my wife is contacting many of the non-human leaders and houses, as they generally are the most supportive of reform. As for Otto von Lichtenburg, it could work, but I fear that he may be too deep into the Tellegara's hand to switch to our side. However, as I said, it could work."

"Also, about the Imperial Magistratum. The Lord High Militant position lies free, and if one of our houses, or our allies could secure that, it would give us even greater influence over the happenings of Pandyssium. Any possible candidates? My best pick from my house would be my firstborn, Elvuldur, but there could be some arguments that he is an elf and too "inexperienced," which is untrue." Saerondr said.

Domnall smiled, for the first time that night. If elected . . . the man knew what he was getting into, having served eight years as Provost Marshal, but what would become of him in such a twisted, power-hungry system in which the stifling of reform was the status quo? He had faith in the ability of Ellyn's blades to watch his back, but for a regent there is is always cause for concern . . .

Erlend bit into his duck, the sweet, greasy meat pleasing his tastebuds like the grey, roadside meals had failed to do during the journey here. He washed it down with some mead, equally thankful for a native beverage and not some wine. "Yes well, that brings up another worthy point Saerondr. You see, as things stand right now, no house has more than one individual in any of the major stations of the Magistratum. All the Lords, at least until they find bones to pick about the matter tomorrow, have been generally happy with this state of affairs while Orius still reigned. No one sees power-grabbing because up until this point, there hasn't been any. Some Houses may not have members at a major position, but no house possesses more than one. If that changed, if your house was to gain two, even if it was for the best of causes and the best of reasons, that general contentment will reverse in some cases to outright hostility. We don't want to be seen to be grabbing for excess power, because then, if Domnall was elected Regent, he'd appoint an ally to replace him at Provost Marshal, giving us half the Magistratum and the Regency. As enticing as that may sound, I don't think it's something that we actually want. Even if done via entirely legal means, as it would be, most houses would see that as nothing short of a coup. Which is why I suggest that we offer the offices of Lord High Militant and Provost Marshal as bargaining pieces to the various houses you've contacted."

"Lower taxes across the board, sweeping reforms to give the houses more power, and two Magistratum positions. That's what we have to offer to houses that come calling. Belrond may be able to do the first and the last, but I highly doubt he's thinking of tax breaks for our realms, just the ones that vote for him. Finally, our biggest weapon is that Belrond himself stymies any and all reform. That will be a thorn in the side of a few houses I would think, and that's something we can offer that he simply won't." Erlend gazed through the window to behold the shining moon and the twinkling stars. The night was getting on. "I hope the houses your wife invited move their arses soon. The night runs on, the vote isn't waiting, and you can be sure as the earth beneath our feet that Belrond and his brood haven't been idle this night. Otto von Lichtenburg is another sour note. There's only one of me, so I'll have to offer him a condensed and hurried version of our proposals discussed tonight. That man loves his coins, but I swear he loves his independence too. He wants reform, dammit, as much as you or I. It may be necessary to offer not one but both positions to his house and his house alone. That, and reform. And he knows surely that he'll get lower taxes whether Belrond bribes him so or whether this proposed Lords Council enacts it sometime in the future. Which means all Belrond really has to work with that we can't match are . . . offers of infrastructure improvements payed out from the imperial treasury I suppose? I shall just have to have a parting word with him in the morning, or you perhaps." He stretched, raising his arms and shifting his shoulders back and forth until a satisfying crack made him sigh with pleasure. "In the meantime, your wife's invitees better get a move on. I fear for the Empire's future if they don't." He turned to his Dukes seated to his right, as if noticing them for the first time. "My lords? Have you anything to offer?"

[Ghondra]

-lots of snip-

Caer Aard

The slums soon became louder, and louder, having people shouting like wild wolves on the street, and tossing rocks, and stones across the markets against any representing '' The noblitity '' Even though this may only still be a part of the labour force below the citizenship, it gave a domino effect on the people besides them. Soon people came with their own reason why to toss their stones, and another reason why to not show up to work, and with every neigherbourhood that wanted their own reason to stand up, another had found a different reason. A open ocean of masses soon started to shout for the depose of the aristocracy, rather wanting to change to the progressive social policies they heard of from Ninurtusur. Sure, some of it came from the mouths of the instigators working for Sandro, but none the less the chaos was starting to divide people up, thus having the ones look to another Lord to protect them, that being Lord Sandro, and his promises of liberity.

However with the rumors of a start of a revolt, the actions of the Lords could define the likely future of what came next.

A pale orc in the tavern clutched onto the bag of coins Garcias had payed him to spy on House Shar-Shazzar and quietly cursed his luck. Of course he was now going to be expected to urgently deal with a riot!

Without being noticed, he payed for his unfinished meal and hurried to the castle. He failed to find Garcias, but he did succeed in finding Tyler, who he recognized. Quickly he informed the Blade about the stirring trouble in the city. Tyler thanked the orc, payed him a single gold coin, then immediately organized a small army of watchmen to come with him to quell the unrest.

200 fully armed watchmen and 10 members of the Blades soon found themselves confronting a full-blown riot on the streets.

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-more snip-

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Garcias Tellegara looked over his shoulder to see if anyone was following them. As it was, nobody was paying attention to Garcias or his five mercenaries.

Carefully but purposefully, he went up to the door and knocked on the door. The guard there replied with what was probably an automated response at this point, considering the tone of voice'' No visitors!''

Garcias chuckled, then says'' Even for a chamberlain of the royal court? Your master is surely not that exhausted from yesterday's arguing. ''

The guard at this point opened the door and gave him a stern look'' No entry.''

''Say, you do realize who you are talking to, right? I am Garcias Tellegara, Chamberlain of the court and son of the steward. We can either do this the easy way, or the hard way. The easy way is that you let me in, I pay you let's say 15 gold coins? Then I wander in and have an incredibly important conversation with your liege. The hard way is that you keep turning me away, so I happily shrug and walk off. I will stand at the door first thing in the morning, and still end up having a chat with your liege, but I will have you marked and you will find yourself dead by the end of the year. Now, my fair gentleman, which will it be?''

Guard'' Right this way.''

OOC: Who wants a chat with him?

Garcias wondered in with his five mercenaries and found the man he was looking for: Edmond of House Ranger.

Taking the man by surprise (after paying the guard handsomely) Garcias wastes no time getting his point across'' Hello my fair south man. You may recognize me as Garcias Tellegara from the Caer Aard today. As the son of the steward, it surprised me to find I sympathized with many of your legitimate concerns. Of course you should have extra powers down in the South, as the rightful Wardens. Sadly, I cannot offer independence at this time, but I can offer you a far more relaxed time in ruling your territory.''

Pulling out a coin purse, Garcias examined it for a second then says'' These particular coins are special. They are copper and silver coins all... just regular currency, I assure you.''

Symbolically placing the coin purse in the hands of Edmond, Garcias continues'' All those coins were taken as taxes for the Empire from the lands of House Ranger... and see that I give them back to you. See this as both a token of my friendship and a symbol of what is to come... an age in which the Empire finally listens to the concerns of the south and of House Ranger and repays you what is due... but first, all I need though, to be able to carry out my little south men friendly agenda for you, is just a few votes in the Caer Aard to swing in a certain direction... interested?''

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Tyler Tellegara was not very troubled with the prospect of Garcias having started the whole prison riot thing... after all, he was too busy putting down the citizenry.

He called for reinforcements and received another 100 watchmen and 50 knights in due course.

It was obvious the riot was hot, but lucky for everyone Tyler Tellegara was a good lid for it. In shorter time than could have been suspected, he managed to isolate some key agitators... and was horrified, but not surprised to find the badge of House Shar-Shazzar on their persons.[/quote]
Edmond Ranger - Garcias Tellegara, Caer Ard

Edmond raised his eyebrow in query as the young heir of House Tellegara laid out all the coin that House Ranger needed if it wanted to start a War for its Independence. He was not surprised that the Tellegara boy, a chamberlain of the Empire to have access to that kind of money. Perhaps another man would take the bag of coins and run away, but he was no such man. Edmond was not raised to be a fool. In the Game of Thrones that have existed for hundreds of years, every deal, every aid came with strings attached. And House Ranger is not desperate enough to cheat the Empire of its tax, he made his decision.

"While I thank you, Young Tellegara for offering me the wealth that has been taken from me by the Empire, I believe this... gift would not be necessary at this time, now if you excuse me, I have dinner preparations to make" Edmond nodded to the Heir, he was about to continue on his way, flanked by two Esterlander Knights, before an exhausted and hoarse voice shouted across the hall.

Edmond rotated 360, seeing the panting Knight-Commander Pannonius Lancaster, flanked by his Son, Edward. "GARCIAS TELLEGARA!" He shouted.

(Annihilator if you don't want Garcias being revealed at this point in time, just say it and I'll edit this post. )

[Nasaira]

Caer Aard, Cauis Acuilis

Listening to all of the lords discuss matters of the empire is not something that Cauis enjoyed but his noble Lord asked all of his dukes to join him on this matter.

Once lied Eridunn asked what his dukes thoughts was Cauis took a drink of meade and then sitting the cup back down to the table before answering his liege Lord.

" milord, I do not have an opinion on this matter only that I support you on all of your decisions. Frankly the matters of the empire do no concern me only the matters of our people. I want you to know that you have my loyalty and support no matter what and what you decide I will support."

After that Cauis was quiet and had no more to say on the matter. Everything he said was true, he did not care what the other lords had to say but he would support what Lord Eriadunn wanted.

After saying his piece to his Lord Cauis took a bite of the pig that was in front of him.

[The mages]

Grieve awoke from his slumber in the forest, his training had hardened him and with his master to thank for it he wandered out into the wilds and decided to head towards the closest human settlement he could find that had an apothecary, he remembered his master's old nursery rhyme he had made to calm him as a child and recited it to himself taking in how true it was now...

"demons climb through faith and flame, to tear our world asunder, but nought shall it bring so long as we sing, of the grieving man and his ire"

Grieve beleived himself to be the only way true order could be restored, him and every criminal in the realms. He knew the state the empire was in and beleived the only way to rectify it was through manipulation, power grabs and getting the right people the right attention, criminals started off corrupt but lords make themselves corrupt so he reasoned that the process would work in reverse should they gain imperial power. he couldnt go any further as his muscles ached but he couldnt let his master die after all he did.

Grieve trudged his way through the imperial heartland taking in the scenery as he did, and he eventually reached a small village on the road to the gates and made himself at home in the rooftop of a bakers hut, sitting there unseen and watching the stars as though they were his masters, training him and watching to see if he would dissapoint. for supper he stole a peice of bread from the baker a floor below and set to sleep.

as he awoke the next night he took a small alehouse dinner and then left without paying for it, drinking a small swig of ale before he ran out of town. he was on his way to the capital of the imperial heartlands, there he reckoned he could find himself an apothecary to steal from, to prolong his master's life just that much longer and then he would smuggle the medicine to his master through his criminal contacts and start a crime spree in the capital.

"more meat from the fat pig that is the empire..." grieve said somberly while out on the road.

Grieve had beforehand made it aware to all criminal gangs and bandits before he set out, that he would be in the heartland and would be taking jobs there if enough money was put forward. he also decided to hand some letters to certain lords and ladies telling them he was available for anything. kidnappings, murder, sabotage, kings-council voting influence etc. he sent them out Caer Aard, Wolfsburg, and all the houses occupying those lands and those around them.

[Slakonian]

"Red" Jenny Dάndzialf

Jenny couldn't still believe it.... it was just a few hours ago when se arrived into the city and now whole madness was happening around. Peasents and workers started to riot around the whole capital but that wasn't all, the city's watch couldn't contain thus far which only made matters worse while the Imperial legionnares being soft from sitting for whole months couldn't handle the pressure. Rumor says that some northern lord rose some anti-imperial sentiment in the tavern between the docks and Caer Aard palace, but without proof words are wind as dust itself.

Jenny was observing from the guests tower a large crowd coming to the estate with pyres on their hands while they were spitting on the ground while making angry remarks against their betters for letting "foreigners" to decide for the Empire and their lives. A squad of the city's watch alongside with a few Imperial legionnares were in front of the estate, they didn't know what to do with such a big number of angry people against them. The sergeant who was in charge of this "defenders" told them to disperse, as natural the only answer he got was a rock on his face. With a small simple boom he fell on the ground while his men were shocked, the rioters came closer ready to charge, a man who made the mistake to take one more step closer until a big black arrow passed through his neck. After some spasms he fell dead, the arrow came from the Tarembor estate from one the sentries and more soon followed.

Both the men from Lord's Tarembor household and Sahrnian retinues came out with naked swords and sharpended longspears with Jenny as their head while being flanked by Siress Kauthrien and Sir Haharis whielding their weapons. Jenny smiled to the crowd, she was still dressed with that red dress along with the purple tunic and the blue zapphires on her chest. The estate "garrisson" charged to the crowd alongside with the city's watch killing many of the unarmed citizens who were accidentally on the front. The battle was short as expected as most this people didin't wield weapons to fight them back, probably thei will go somewhere but that time they will surely have weapons for them.

"Hung all the survivors on the street lamps, they thought they could attack huh? That will give them a message in the name of our Lord.." exclaimed Jenny while looking to the few civilian survivors.

One of the elven guards protested for this while the Sahrnians and city's watch hunged an orcish boy of 15 next to a goblin girl of 12 while the girl's father watched before he died from blood loss."This absurd... un-unheard of.... I refuse,um no I protest to this fucking order, our Lord won't stand for this command. Why we should listen to her anyway huh? I mean she is the Lion's of the West little bastard bitch and a human as we..." before he could finish two men grabbed him and disarmed him while fell to his kness.
Jenny got near him and her hidden blade was revealed from her left hand and cut off his littlest finger from his left hand.

"This is what happens when someone ignores my direct order, next time I will cut both his cock and his tongue for this. My I remind you that I am half elven as well? No?, good because this won't happen again. None of you will ever speak of this understood?" She said in a natural authorative tone, the men followed later her orders without question and hunged the rest of the civillians, even the elf who disobeyed first hunged a eldery man from a lamp as well. A say of Sahrnians say that "When you need to sweeten those around you you tell them honeyed words, ask humbly while you return the favour in a even greater turn... but when someone objects orders, the only answer is direct brute force, dissent must end sharply, always".

Jenny decided to take 40 men to Stag Hall to make sure that her father's liege is alright in his health and safety. 10 from her father's retinue, tall Sahrnian men some hardened from battles a few years back while others were only trained and never saw a real battle first handed. 20 from the Tarembor household as it was their lord who served alongside 8 city watch men with 4 legionnares while the rest of the men will remain to protect the estate and try to make up some fortifications on the street around while tend the wounded and take some rest as well. Siress Kauthrien and Sir Haharis will remain the head of the defense here while see and the sergeant from the city's watch will go to Stag Hall.

A few hours later...

Walking on foot was wise in first place, as eveing had ended, a dark ngiht took it's place and so did bodies on the streets. The the riot had started to become a full scale revolt as disgruntled rubble joined by soldiers and lower-middle class people joined as well. Whoever had a horse was dead on the instant as they thought was a lord or a soldier who served a lord but most of the time there were just people who wanted to espace this madness. Heads rolled more than balls and many thought playing with football was a very right idea.... seriously?

Thankfully they arrived at the Stag Hall, the streets were deserted, this ain't a good sign she thought. Too quiet while on the other city blocks urban warfare was being waged. A guard in front of the stag hall main gate who had a black stag on his chest with some yellowish marks on his helmet and shoulders could been seen. The banners of many houses could been seen flying, the cold wind made them look like magnificent and glorious, even lesser houses had better banners than bigger and older ones but banners are not enough but it always a first step.

"State your buss.." and bam Jenny's fist hit the mans face and he fell to the ground with not knowing what hit him. The sergeatn who accompany them stayed at the gate to explain the reason they came, the gate's surgeatn was very confused but Jenny didn't had time for this crap, she ordered all the men to stay behind except her own who followed her to make way for her within the magnificent manor. Some stag men came past them but didn't stay to ask them why they were inside, she could hear the riot coming closer by the step which ain't good, they had to leave before it's too late. The manor was magnificent indeed, a mix of good ironwood ceeling with marble gloor and white-gold brick walls with a mix of balck oak wood which covered some part of it. She saw the paintings and many men, some famous while others were members of the house itself... The wooden gate that was closed which hosted the feast and barred by a column of 5 guards.

With much persuasion, charm and intimidation they opened the door, a guard wanted to annonce her but she stopped him. She looked to the men who were quite suprised, all music and maughter and talking stopped when her men came in as well.

"For give me for this interruption m'lords but we have a situation but I am sure introduction are first in order yes? Well, my name is Jenny Dάndzialf, natural daughter of Duke Hoster Threnhold of Sahrnia. I have to inform you with most unfortunate news, the whole city is revolting, we can't leave at this time as w=it is the city but we must move to the Tarembor estate and NOW. I have ordered the men there to forticate themselves and wait us there, it far more safer there I assure as the allways are smallish and a large group can be easily confronted." But before she could say anything further one of the men from outside, a very large of brigands was outside ready to get in and some the men were dead...

[Der Kaiser Mikey III]

Caer Arad

Mordred Malicium entered his quarters with a slightly staggered gait. Inhaling his usual ivory pipeful of mixed narcotics, he blew out a massive cloud of smoke, resting his left hand over his blade as he surveyed his surroundings, and more importantly the quill and parchment before him. Smirking, he inclined his head and lowered his pipe, taking a seat and beginning his letter.

Code: Select all

Lord Saerondr,

It has been centuries since our kind have spoken. That being said, I extend the hand of the Drualie in friendship, and come bearing a few delicacies from Tevlorn to share while we try and make up for the lost time between our two races-Apple wine, vodka, opium, and cannabis have a way of calming even the most stark of creatures. I knew your father, well, of him rather. We were quite in opposition to one another when it came to our philosophical beliefs. These times, however, do not permit such luxuries. This is naturally why I wish to speak today to reach a conclusion for all our kind. Methinks our bickering has caused us to...forget about the rise of man, and in the end it was our undoing. But the future, that my friend is unwritten. Unwritten until we decide to do something about it. By all means, feel welcome in my court any time; I most certainly look forward to this discussion,

-M. M.

[Annihilators of Chan Island]

Kevin had listened closely to what his guests had said. First he responded to Maria'' I am very happy that you have accepted my offer. To even make the fort building easier, I have been in contact with an architect with a few drawings of potential fort designs and an Imperial Navy Galley, the Sun Streaker, sits on standby in the Caer Aard harbor. They under orders to scope out sites in the Carolina Islands as soon as my brother or I give them the go-ahead.''

Turning to Burgmeister, he explained rather matter-of-factly'' I'm happy you agree on some of points but you must understand that reform just can't happen yet. If the treason of the Silver Cities runs as deep as you suggest, then we urgently need to deal with this, then ward off the coming Augrillac invasion, that's when we must discuss reform. My brother Belrond, believe it or not, is actually not hostile to the idea of reform, he is just hostile to it being done now and of course to absolute folly like some suggestions at the Caer Aard today.''

He sighed, then follows it up'' It feels horrible having to categorically stand in front of all reform, but you have to understand. The Empire is in crisis now. Emperor is 5 years old, although we all know Belrond as regent will keep the lid on any childhood follies until the child comes of age.... as he has had to do now to two fully-grown grown men... demonstrating the current system is adequate in terms of checks and balances for now. Ironically your suggestion that the Emperor rules unchecked in times of war would actually apply nowadays!''

Looking over to Maria, he observes'' And it will also mean Belrond better find someone tonight for Lord High Militant!''

Pausing to munch on a small vegetable, Kevin continues, now talking like he had been expecting to deploy this rehearsed punch'' The tariff, as you pointed out, was in fact negotiated 40 years ago, however times have changed. That Emperor died, then his son reigned and died as well, although I do give you that my brother Belrond has been steward through-out. It still marvels me sometimes to think he was once the youngest steward in history... Anyway, today though trade is up, but the merchants are clearly unhappy with the rates, considering how often the petition the crown to lower it. There have been some good harvests here in the Heartlands, especially in the Crownlands. I think the Empire has to lower the rate nowadays. An interesting book written by a professor in the famous college at Nerred a few years has suggested the crown could reap more money if we lower the taxes because there will be more trade coming into your realm. The late emperor Orius was going to give that exact same suggestion to you, but sadly he died before he could finish writing the letter to the council.''

Smiling a devious smile, he finishes'' Wouldn't it be a shame if petty politics stopped that from happening?
After all, it would be far more profitable for me personally and my house to encourage the tax rate to increase on the Republic but then lower it on the ports of the Heartlands like Deon, Grey Watch, Caer Aard and the Imperial City. Those ports are closer to the markets and population centers after all, and if the proposed fort does get built in the Carolina Islands they will be just as safe to sail to....''

[Nasaira]

Caer Aard, Cauis Acuilis

enjoying another piece of the roasted pig which was very delicious and satisfying. I wonder how milord will accept my answer to him in regards to what I thought. Everything I said was true, it did not matter to me what was decided, I would support my lord in any and all of his decisions.

I know my lord would put the well being of our people above all. Taking a drink of the meade, which went down smooth and took away any thirst that I had.

The high lords contiouned to talk amongst themselves, which is fine with me, I don't trust any of them. But the one thing these lords did know how to have a feast. There was anything I could want here, pig, pheasant, lamb, this was a grand banquet I only wished it was on a more joyous occasion.

I was paying no mind to anyone else there when I heard the commotion over at the door that lead into the great hall. There she stood, a woman whom I did not know who she was but her fiery red hair and the armor she wore was fitted to every curve of her body. I did not know who she is, but I wanted to do. I was brought out of my fantasies by the talk of the riots going on in the city.

If there was the slightest chance my lord may be in danger then it is my duty to protect him. My blood riders where in the keep I would gather them and offer my services to this gorgeous women that stood at the door.

" pardon me Lord Eriadunn, but please excuse me I will go see what all of this commotion is."

Adjusting my sword I walked to the mysterious woman at the door.

" my lady." I say with a slight bow.

" I couldn't help but hear you speak of the riots outside. Do you require any assistance from me and my men. I am Duke Cauis Acuilis."

[The Starlight]

"Thank you, Jenny." said Saerondr, nodding to the daughter of his duke with thanks. "Erlend, this woman is indeed the daughter of my duke. And so, we must leave quickly, if a mob is outside. The Tarembor estate has a weaponry, secret tunnels, exits and stores. We should all be safe there. Are there any back entrances from the Eriadunn estate. I do not want to slash my way through, and they may be too many for us, despite all of our skill."

Receiving the letter, he said, "Ah, the Drualie lord has offered the hand of his house in friendship. It is good, the elves have been divided for too long. I shall have to visit his estate later on. The worrying thing is that they are vassals of House Tellegara, why they submitted to that house I will never know.

[Annihilators of Chan Island]

- confusing snips everywhere. Don't know what's going on with all these snips - -- Annihilators

Edmond Ranger - Garcias Tellegara, Caer Ard

Edmond raised his eyebrow in query as the young heir of House Tellegara laid out all the coin that House Ranger needed if it wanted to start a War for its Independence. He was not surprised that the Tellegara boy, a chamberlain of the Empire to have access to that kind of money. Perhaps another man would take the bag of coins and run away, but he was no such man. Edmond was not raised to be a fool. In the Game of Thrones that have existed for hundreds of years, every deal, every aid came with strings attached. And House Ranger is not desperate enough to cheat the Empire of its tax, he made his decision.

"While I thank you, Young Tellegara for offering me the wealth that has been taken from me by the Empire, I believe this... gift would not be necessary at this time, now if you excuse me, I have dinner preparations to make" Edmond nodded to the Heir, he was about to continue on his way, flanked by two Esterlander Knights, before an exhausted and hoarse voice shouted across the hall.

Edmond rotated 360, seeing the panting Knight-Commander Pannonius Lancaster, flanked by his Son, Edward. "GARCIAS TELLEGARA!" He shouted.

(Annihilator if you don't want Garcias being revealed at this point in time, just say it and I'll edit this post. )

-snip

(I'm fine with him being revealed, just remember the consequences I noted on OOC )

The 5 mercenaries Garcias had brought with him immediately reacted to the threat, pointing their poleaxes ( they look like this one http://armor.com/images/pole010a_s.jpg ) towards the threat. Immediately it became clear that Lancaster was outnumbered and in stark contrast to him the mercenaries were fresh, active and ready to strike. Garcias laughed and shouts'' Pannonius Lancaster! How good to see you! Arn't you looking a bit angry on this fine evening? Now, if you don't mind, I'd love to chat, but I'm afraid the Blades don't vote at the Caer Aard tomorrow, so I need to be on my way and discuss some important things with my friend Ranger if that's alright? ''

Looking towards Edmond Ranger, he asks with words thick with honey'' May I dine with you tonight, if my presence doesn't offend you? We very definitely have much to discuss.''

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Red" Jenny Dάndzialf

Jenny couldn't still believe it.... it was just a few hours ago when se arrived into the city and now whole madness was happening around. Peasents and workers started to riot around the whole capital but that wasn't all, the city's watch couldn't contain thus far which only made matters worse while the Imperial legionnares being soft from sitting for whole months couldn't handle the pressure. Rumor says that some northern lord rose some anti-imperial sentiment in the tavern between the docks and Caer Aard palace, but without proof words are wind as dust itself.

Jenny was observing from the guests tower a large crowd coming to the estate with pyres on their hands while they were spitting on the ground while making angry remarks against their betters for letting "foreigners" to decide for the Empire and their lives. A squad of the city's watch alongside with a few Imperial legionnares were in front of the estate, they didn't know what to do with such a big number of angry people against them. The sergeant who was in charge of this "defenders" told them to disperse, as natural the only answer he got was a rock on his face. With a small simple boom he fell on the ground while his men were shocked, the rioters came closer ready to charge, a man who made the mistake to take one more step closer until a big black arrow passed through his neck. After some spasms he fell dead, the arrow came from the Tarembor estate from one the sentries and more soon followed.

Both the men from Lord's Tarembor household and Sahrnian retinues came out with naked swords and sharpended longspears with Jenny as their head while being flanked by Siress Kauthrien and Sir Haharis whielding their weapons. Jenny smiled to the crowd, she was still dressed with that red dress along with the purple tunic and the blue zapphires on her chest. The estate "garrisson" charged to the crowd alongside with the city's watch killing many of the unarmed citizens who were accidentally on the front. The battle was short as expected as most this people didin't wield weapons to fight them back, probably thei will go somewhere but that time they will surely have weapons for them.

"Hung all the survivors on the street lamps, they thought they could attack huh? That will give them a message in the name of our Lord.." exclaimed Jenny while looking to the few civilian survivors.

One of the elven guards protested for this while the Sahrnians and city's watch hunged an orcish boy of 15 next to a goblin girl of 12 while the girl's father watched before he died from blood loss."This absurd... un-unheard of.... I refuse,um no I protest to this fucking order, our Lord won't stand for this command. Why we should listen to her anyway huh? I mean she is the Lion's of the West little bastard bitch and a human as we..." before he could finish two men grabbed him and disarmed him while fell to his kness.
Jenny got near him and her hidden blade was revealed from her left hand and cut off his littlest finger from his left hand.

"This is what happens when someone ignores my direct order, next time I will cut both his cock and his tongue for this. My I remind you that I am half elven as well? No?, good because this won't happen again. None of you will ever speak of this understood?" She said in a natural authorative tone, the men followed later her orders without question and hunged the rest of the civillians, even the elf who disobeyed first hunged a eldery man from a lamp as well. A say of Sahrnians say that "When you need to sweeten those around you you tell them honeyed words, ask humbly while you return the favour in a even greater turn... but when someone objects orders, the only answer is direct brute force, dissent must end sharply, always".

Jenny decided to take 40 men to Stag Hall to make sure that her father's liege is alright in his health and safety. 10 from her father's retinue, tall Sahrnian men some hardened from battles a few years back while others were only trained and never saw a real battle first handed. 20 from the Tarembor household as it was their lord who served alongside 8 city watch men with 4 legionnares while the rest of the men will remain to protect the estate and try to make up some fortifications on the street around while tend the wounded and take some rest as well. Siress Kauthrien and Sir Haharis will remain the head of the defense here while see and the sergeant from the city's watch will go to Stag Hall.

A few hours later...

Walking on foot was wise in first place, as eveing had ended, a dark ngiht took it's place and so did bodies on the streets. The the riot had started to become a full scale revolt as disgruntled rubble joined by soldiers and lower-middle class people joined as well. Whoever had a horse was dead on the instant as they thought was a lord or a soldier who served a lord but most of the time there were just people who wanted to espace this madness. Heads rolled more than balls and many thought playing with football was a very right idea.... seriously?

Thankfully they arrived at the Stag Hall, the streets were deserted, this ain't a good sign she thought. Too quiet while on the other city blocks urban warfare was being waged. A guard in front of the stag hall main gate who had a black stag on his chest with some yellowish marks on his helmet and shoulders could been seen. The banners of many houses could been seen flying, the cold wind made them look like magnificent and glorious, even lesser houses had better banners than bigger and older ones but banners are not enough but it always a first step.

"State your buss.." and bam Jenny's fist hit the mans face and he fell to the ground with not knowing what hit him. The sergeatn who accompany them stayed at the gate to explain the reason they came, the gate's surgeatn was very confused but Jenny didn't had time for this crap, she ordered all the men to stay behind except her own who followed her to make way for her within the magnificent manor. Some stag men came past them but didn't stay to ask them why they were inside, she could hear the riot coming closer by the step which ain't good, they had to leave before it's too late. The manor was magnificent indeed, a mix of good ironwood ceeling with marble gloor and white-gold brick walls with a mix of balck oak wood which covered some part of it. She saw the paintings and many men, some famous while others were members of the house itself... The wooden gate that was closed which hosted the feast and barred by a column of 5 guards.

With much persuasion, charm and intimidation they opened the door, a guard wanted to annonce her but she stopped him. She looked to the men who were quite suprised, all music and maughter and talking stopped when her men came in as well.

"For give me for this interruption m'lords but we have a situation but I am sure introduction are first in order yes? Well, my name is Jenny Dάndzialf, natural daughter of Duke Hoster Threnhold of Sahrnia. I have to inform you with most unfortunate news, the whole city is revolting, we can't leave at this time as w=it is the city but we must move to the Tarembor estate and NOW. I have ordered the men there to forticate themselves and wait us there, it far more safer there I assure as the allways are smallish and a large group can be easily confronted." But before she could say anything further one of the men from outside, a very large of brigands was outside ready to get in and some the men were dead...

A few hours earlier...

Tyler found himself in a very, very vexing situation. Where ever he showed up with his large retinue of Watchmen, the crowds would almost always cower away from the incarnate might of Imperial justice, but then the crowd would reform somewhere else, often more angry than before because of Silver City agitators encouraging the revolution. As soon as reports of deaths came about, Tyler didn't waste a second: he called up all available forces to assist in quelling the riots.

1 hour later...

All available watchmen and soldiers were deployed in the city and harbor, beating back crowds of angry citizenry with, as yet, non-lethal force. Shield-walls were deployed on all major roads and all gates were closed in an effort to contain the riots to within the city, although not before all the Watchmen and sheriffs in the villages around were informed of the situation and ordered to mobilize in their area. Some towns unaffected by the riots decided to, as a precaution, call up the levies and put them on standby.

2 hours later...

''WHAT?!'' shouted Tyler as the courier dodged an incoming missile, in this case an empty bottle.

''The Tarembor estate is chock-full of dead!'' screamed the courier'' Sir Aarsmon's men have been fighting a mob demanding blood for their deaths! Nobody has counted, but at least 30 dead! And the 10 surrendered citizens hung from lampposts!''

''Bloody elves!'' shouted Tyler. Angrily, he draws his sword and shouts'' Do they want the mob to attack our soldiers, for the Faith's sake?! We could have dealt with this nice and simply, but no , ''we the elven soldiers always have to remind our Imperial authorities that we haven't a clue how to deal with a mob unlike actual watchmen''. Urgh, alright, tell all the sergeants this: issue a final warning to the crowds. Bribe them, lie to them, threaten them, doesn't matter, heck, even tell them to write a list of demands to be presented at the Caer Aard, it really doesn't matter, just do anything to get them off the street! Tell them I order a curfew at 11, and any citizen without any valid reason to be out will be arrested, and any resist will be killed!''

Courier'' Yes sir!''

Tyler'' Oh and another thing.''

Courier'' Yes sir?''

Tyler'' Plant some of our own agitators into these riots. Direct their hatred towards the Augrillacs or to the non-humans or something like that. It'll make all those mobs more likely to back-off piece fully when the Imperial banner is planted in front of them. And maybe even dredge out that that radical cleric from the dungeons that my father put back earlier. He may prove to be useful...

3 hours later....

The mix of carrot and stick seemed to work on many people. Mobs without deliberate agitators often didn't want to actually test the limits and went home. Other mobs fled in terror when warning shots- or direct shots- were launched at them by soldiers or watchmen. That said, some crowds remained, rallied by obvious agitators looking for blood. Most of these were contained though into the poorest parts of the city, where even most of those protesters didn't feel like smashing.

Tyler stood on a barricade observing a much smaller mob which was now refraining from violence, satisfying itself with merely standing at a crossroads chanting anti-Empire slogans and listening to the fiery language of the radical cleric (still in chains, of course) telling them the Empire's periphery was full of Faith-denying heathens. Of course obviously he advocated for the removal of the ''corrupt nobility'' first, but at least the direction of the anger was in a direction the watch could easily deal with.

The Blade looked about him and quietly chanted some pro-Empire slogan to himself and the watchmen, to secure their minds against the radical's evil words.

[The Starlight]

Tarembor Estate
"What the blazes is going on out here!" yelled Miren, her own sword drawn and her children flanking her. Then, she saw the bodies hanging on their gate. Some were just children! "Take those bodies down, NOW!" yelled Miren, her voice and expression going dark. "Who dares to dishonor House Tarembor in this way! Speak, guards!"

"It was that Jenny," spoke the elven guard with his little finger cut off. "She ordered that we hang the bodies of the mob on the street lamps, and when I disagreed, she cut off this finger and threatened to cut off," the elf pointed downwards to that particular organ, "and my tongue. Then, she took elves to Stag Hall to bring back Lord Saerondr." he finished.

Shaking her head, in shame, Miren sheathed her sword. "And no one thought to ask me what I thought of this? Not this Jenny, not the guards, no one?! Take down the bodies immediately, they shall receive proper burials, along with all that were slain by elvish blades. Their families will be recompensed, from the salaries of the guards who participated, and from the coffers of Sahrinia. As for this "Red" Jenny, when she returns, we shall have words, with her, and she shall be punished, I swear it. House Threnhold has shamed itself and House Tarembor this day." Then, stepping inside the gate, she, her children and the rest of the guards, took the bodies down.

[Slakonian]

"Red" Jenny Dάndzialf

Jenny noticed Caius Acuilis,and quite handsome. She thought, but before she could talk to him Lord Paramount Saerondr thanked her while he aknoledged her as a trustworthy person to the rest of the nobles who thanked her as well. She looked towards Caius again giving a half smile,maybe he likes...or he will like me soon she thought once again. How did that happen anyway? She liked the young man? Or maybe not? Or maybe she just wanted him to fall to her spell or vice versa... in the end it doesn't matter because other troubles were ahead of them.

"Well, m'lord I need in fact your help, you see the fight is heavy on the harbour which became an outight madness. As you humbly provide your assistance then follow me but before we leave I ahve to say saomething to Lord Saerondr". She stopped and then she approached the lord paramount who was preparing to leave as well. "M'lord" she turned to rest as well."M'lords we cannot leave from any back door at the moment as the surroudning area is full of rioters, these people have been joined by disgruntled soldiers as well which means matters will become worse for our position". she paused and looked to their expressions, they weren't delighted for these news at all. "WE must go from the way we came from unfortunately as the small allways provide safety and ignorance from these groups. This chaos started long before, and my Lord..."she turned to lord Searondr again."Forgive me but you estate was attacked by rioters who killed two city watchmen while hit their sergeant on the head with a rock. He is here and he will tell you anything, I had to make an "example" of them so that they won't attack the estate again."

She nodded to Cauis to follow him, which he did alongside with his men and other stag hall guards to the gate. She saw the men outside being in battlestance, something ain't right, The men made way... they saw a large mob with many disgruntled soldiers with them, some the men who left them behind including the sergeant she brought with had they heads on spikes while a few rioters were dead on the ground.

She never ordered once simple word, attack as he never had time....
"Kill those foreigners mates and we shall make "fun" with their corpses. I tell you, I f*** with my comrades noblewomen on the imperial highway and now we shall f*** them to their own estates hehehe"