The Scramble [Closed]

[Kaitani]

March 6, 1750: Artris, Andea, Carinia
On this day, 15 years ago, a Carinian explorer, Ansoel Endale, came back from a voyage to find potential new trade routes for the Empire, has returned with something much better for the whole nation, a previously unexplored landmass.

This continent is approximately 3600 Kilometers south of Achara. Close, yes, but still far enough for its inhabitants to be excluded from a very vast majority of global trade. This got the attention of Achara's great powers.

Since then, in the past few months, nations around Achara began making their claims and setting up colonies in the continent to grow their power.

What is next for this continent?

[Bearstin]

Bungakan, Bunga Lands
Oko'wan stood on the mountainside in his mountain capital of Bungakan, looking over the misty valley and the river that cut through it like a spear. They had retreated from their past capitol to their wartime capitol once these strange men had shown up on their continent. They had no desire for war, but horrifying stories from the lesser tribes, and warnings from the friendly mysterious people who had set up shop on their coast had convinced Oko'wan to take no chances.

Behind him, a sudden shrill caused him to whip around and his elite guards immediately raised their muskets. Before him was a scout, panting loudly with cuts and scrapes across his legs and arms. "Milord, I hav-"

"Silence my son, you will not be permitted to speak until you have drank water and can breathe normally."

The scout obeyed his ruler and a servant presented the scout with water which he did not hesitate to drink. Oko'wan assumed this scout had a priority message. Usually scouts avoided the brush forests and took the roads. The brush was only traversed through when urgent messages were sent, which in these days, was quite often.

"Speak."

"I come from the border village of Okama, where the sunflowers grow tallest. One of our scouts spotted the foreigners a great great distance from our village, but we know they will come closer, and beg for your assistance."

"Let the foreigners be for now. If they attack us then they will feel the wrath of the Sun. Take the roads back, the brush is not necessary for this message."

[The Twelve Isles]

Sir Brennan "The Black" Sallwick
Lady Anastasia Allencroft (Cabot)
The Imperial Palace
Townhill
1750

The carriage rattled over the cobblestones, as Sir Brennan approached the towering Palace. The day was cold and rainy, and he could hear the drops of water as they pattered on the roof. As he glanced outside, he could see smoke rising from the north in a few whisper thin lines. The rioting had only just recently been quashed, and resentment still simmered in the city. It had been a violent time the past 10 years, but at long last it appeared to be over. The Brushwick Insurrection had been destroyed by cadets from the North Mournly Military Academy, Emperor Leander Cartwine was dead and his wife, Empress Lena Cartwine was on the throne. Brennan was a man who feared few things, but he feared Lena. It couldn't be proven, but it was widely suspected that the mysterious and fast acting disease that had killed her husband was not in fact Blood Cough, but had been poison placed by the new Empress. She had effectively been in command during the Insurrection, and had brutally put down the resistance on Brushwick when the Islesish forces had landed. And now, even with her new born baby, Lena II cocked on her hip at all times, she was still a powerful and commanding figure. Her rule was absolute.

As the gates onto the Palace grounds opened in front of the carriage, and the wheels bounced over the little hump that ran the length of the gate, the form next to Brennan stirred. He looked over as his apprentice picked herself up groggily from the window where she had been leaning, the crease of her collar pressed into her cheek from where she had been sleeping on it. "Fix your hair," he said to her, his voice gruff and deep. It was not a friendly voice, but it was the voice of a man of principles. A fair man.

Anastasia glared at him, but did as she was told as they came to a halt in front of the palace. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, pressed it down over her head, sniffed, and leaned back heavily. Sometimes she regretted ever going to Brennan after the destruction of Allencroft Manor. He was a demanding and unwavering person, and she liked to joke with the other servants she had been so rudely forced to be a part of that maybe the Inquisitors would have been better than him.

A man in a beautiful suit approached, and held the door open for both Brennan and Anastasia. He made no effort to extend the umbrella for them that he carried, simply carrying it over his head as he examined the two of them. After all, Brennan was not a Lord, and to all parties that mattered Anastasia was a distant cousin of the Sallwicks, not the Allencroft she truly was. After all, Anastasia Allencroft had died in the blaze at Allencroft Manor, allong with Sara Sallwick. She did not exist anymore.

The man, who struck Brennan as stuffy and self righteous, bowed slightly but in a way that was still insulting, before waving his hand and saying, "follow me please. The Empress will meet you in the library." He turned and began to make his way back inside without waiting for Brennan and Anastasia, and the two had to walk a little faster to catch up with them. By the time they made it through the door and into the palace itself, they were both soaking, and Anastasia's attempts to fix her her hair were made moot as now it was dripping like a broken faucet. They were given no time to try and fix themselves up once they were inside, and simply lead through the sprawling halls. The marble floors practically gleamed, and the chandeliers over head tinkled happily. It was like a fairy tale inside, everything perfect beautiful, all in its spot. Brennan felt out of place.

No one talked as they walked, until at last they reached a door, tall and wide and inlaid with thin strips of gold and silver. The servant turned and looked the two of them up and down, before straightening up and in a haughty voice saying, "The Empress is inside. When you greet her, you are to stand straight with you hands clasped behind your back and announce your name and any titles you may have.Then you shall bow, with your left hand to your heart and your right hand extended out behind you, your left leg straight forward and your right leg bent at the knee. Only then may you speak with her. And she will not speak to you until you have done so. Is that understood?"

Brennan simply nodded gravely, but Anastasia bristled. Who was this stuffy little prick to tell her how to greet someone in the proper fashion? She was an Allencroft, she knew damn well how to meet a monarch, and she would have appreciated it if the servant would have been able to take context clues and learn that. But before she could say anything, Brennan gave her a pointed look, and she shut her mouth before anything came out. It didnt stop her from giving the servant a look that made it clear what she thought of him, but he simply ignored her, throwing open the doors to the library.

"Sir Sallwick and his ward, your highness," he said, before stepping out of the way and letting Brennan and Anastasia through.

They stood straight and tall, their hands behind their back as they were told. "Sir Brennan Sallwick, your highness," said Brennan before bowing low. It was a little shaky, but it was acceptable.

Anastasia spoke, in a comfortable and slightly better than though voice of an aristocrat. "Miss Anastasia Cabot, your highness," she said, before lowering herself into a practiced and elegant bow.

They both straightened, and waited for Empress Lena to speak. She studied them both, before her eyes fell on Anastasia. "You speak with quite some confidence, Miss Cabot," said Lena. "You remind me of a girl I met a few years ago with my husband, also named Anastasia. But she was a member of the Allencroft family, who are no more, as Im sure someone of your social position has heard."

"Ive heard of what happened to them, but I never knew them," said Anastasia. She didnt like how quickly the conversation had managed to turn to her dead family.

"Well," said Lena, "the daughter of the family was named Anastasia as well. Her mother was Arenginian you know."

"I did not know that," said Anastasia.

"What is it that you have summoned us here for, your highness," said Brennan, and Anastasia was suddenly grateful for his deflecting the conversation. She had the distinct impression that the Empress knew exactly who she was, and had planned to torment her for no other reason than because she could.

Lena didnt turn from Anastasia for another 5 seconds, staring her down and making her dominance known, before turning to Brennan. "Well, its just the Continent of course," she said, her voice suddenly cheery and grinning. "As Im sure you are aware, other nations have already begun to colonize the Continent, and I simply dont plan on being left out of something like that. After all, whats the point of having such a large navy as ours, if we are simply going to stay here on our own islands and not try to use our power for the greater good."

"And I come in how?" said Brennan.

"Well, Im hoping that you can be the one in charge of this colonization effort. I believe that your family's maritime history puts you in an excellent position to lead an expedition across the sea to set up our colonies. Plus, Im sure you would want to get away from Townhill, especially after the death of your daughter in that unfortunate fire."

Brennan stiffened, along with Anastasia. The Empress was coming far to close to truths that were better left buried for all parties involved. He drew a shuddering breath, before deciding not to speak. Anastasia felt her eyes water, and blinked them fast to stop them from spilling over.

"Im sorry," said Lena in a voice that made it clear she was far from sorry. "I spoke to harshly." She smiled once again, and it was the smile of a wolf. "Anyways, you wont be working alone of course. I plan to send with you Lord Hargrave, I believe you two have met?"

Brennan and Hargrave had in deed met. They were the owners of the two largest whaling and fishing companies in the Isles, and were bitter rivals because of it.

"That we have," said Brennan.

"Good," said Lena. "Then Im sure it will make your working together that much easier."

"And," said Brennan, "Is there anymore assistance from the Crown, or am I and Lord Hargrave to set all of this up ourselves?"

"Oh, dont be silly," said Lena, "of course there will be assistance from the Crown. We are coming in a little late to the game on this colonization effort, so we have to make a big splash to make it in the door. Along with you, I plan to send a brigade of soldiers, 10 ships, and set up a trading route so that your are never without the supplies you need. I hardly could imagine how much of a fool we would all look as a nation if we didn't give the necessary support. As for gathering prospective colonists however, Im afraid that is up to you and Lord Hargrave."

They spoke some more, the meeting going on for some time as all of the details were worked out. A document signifying Brennan's rights to colonize the Continent was given to him, and they met with Lord Hargrave as well, who had arrived 20 minutes or so after Brennan and Anastasia. All in all, it [continued to be a cold and intimidating meeting. Even Hargrave, who had all the rights given to aristocrats approached the meeting with a quite discomfort at being in the presence of Lena. That woman, everyone knew, was a sociopath. As Brennan and Anastasia were leaving however, thinking that at last they were safe from the Empresses cold gaze that saw everything, she called out to Anastasia.

"You know darling," she said, "laying with another of your sex is truly a serious crime in the eyes of the Inquisitors. They have never taken kindly to Sexual Degeneracy."

Anastasia felt a wave of nausea hit her, and stared at the Empress, unsure of how to respond. She needed to leave. If the Empress knew, who knew how many others knew as well. Lena smiled at her, her teeth were to white and her hair was to perfect, and every aspect of her clothing was to starched and crisp. Anastasia felt in that moment that she would rather be in the presence of the Stranger himself than Empress Lena Cartwine.

Brennan clasped his hand on her shoulder, gripping hard and serious, snapping her out of her fear. "Lets go Anastasia," he said, leading her away. As they left, she glanced over her shoulder one last time, and Lena still stood there, her face cruel and calculating. The face of someone who knew all the plays to make, all the strings to pull, to get her own way.


(For anyone interested, here are some pictures of the main players in the Isles colonization efforts.

He's a pretty rough and tumble type of dude

I was debating using another picture since Ive already used Emily Kaldwin's likeness for Empress Bella Cartwine, but I thought that this picture captured Anastasia's personalty well so I rolled with it

Nothing special here. I just like the picture.

And there you have it everyone, our first ever evil member of the Cartwine family

The commander of the brigade that is coming with the expidition

He is to Lord Hargrave what Anastasia is to Brennan Sallwick

[The Manticoran Empire]

The New World

Loughdon was a young settlement, barely five years old, but it had already blossomed into valuable port. It was set in the middle of a natural harbor, with water greater than 30 fathoms in depth, perfectly suited for the large merchantmen that used her ports. Over the last five years, Loughdon had worked out a system. Barques and carracks would arrive from Manticore, laden with colonists and money. The colonists would be greeted by a magistrate and many would be given the deeds to their new lands. To entice colonists, the Crown had promised 50 acres of farmland to all families that could pay the cost of their travel. Hundreds crossed every month now, intent on staking their claim while they could. However, the majority of colonists were less interested in farming and more interested in opening a business. Many staked their 50 acre land claims on forests, intent on making a profit off of the timber. Others sought to open shops in the towns that were springing up. Many of the established farmers were present, as well, gathering those colonists that had come over at the promise of work. Shopkeeps were also present, selling to the merchant captains their crops of tobacco, corn, beans, cotton, and timber. The crews of the ships would take advantage of the opportunity for shore leave, visiting the brothels and taverns that had sprung up around the docks, spending away the three to four months of their wages in the few short days they were in port. The ships, on their return journey, would be laden down with hundreds of tons of goods from the colony and scouts sent by the larger farms and plantations, searching for laborers. Others present include Militia recruiters, seeking new members for their ranks, regularly depleted through skirmishes with local tribes.

Among the new arrivals was Michael Timothy Forest, a barman from Vicuna. He had saved his money for the last three years with the aim of bringing his family over and starting a new life, free from the cramped confines of the Empire's capitol. Because he had been able to pay for his and his families passage, he had been granted 50 acres of land, something he didn't view as necessary. So he sought out another colonist and offered him his land at a price of one hundred pounds per acre. The colonist jumped at the opportunity, since it now doubled his own land claim and the gold was exchanged on the spot. Michael now found himself 5,000 pounds richer and went to find a place to open an inn. He had noticed that, while Loughdon had many taverns and brothels, they had few inns. He soon found himself a nice looking structure sitting vacant. The man who currently owned it stated that his brother had it built but had died on the journey over. The current owner wasn't interested in the building, instead having come over to farm. Michael offered him 1,000 pounds for the structure and the deal was done. He, along with his wife and daughters, would turn this large structure into an inn to provide housing to the sailors and colonists who traveled through Loughdon. With luck and the blessings of the Gods, he would make a name for himself and leave a lasting legacy for his children and their children.

[The Twelve Isles]

New Townhill, Carinthia
Sir Brennan Sallwick
Miss Anastasia Allencroft (Cabot)

New Townhill had sprung up quickly, and grown quickly, going from just a few buildings clustered together behind a rough set of walls to a town of at least 20,000 citizens in only a few months. And it was projected to keep growing. The Crown, for all the soon rising flaws that it had presented to Brennan and Anastasia, had at least proven to be quite adept at quickly setting up a successful colony. But that still couldn't stop everything, and the single brigade sent to defend it was quickly proving to be far to little. They could protect New Townhill, and the equivalent Sagebrush in Sallgrave, but if any of the other surrounding powers chose to attack.

Brennan had been petitioning the Empress with letter every few weeks when the ships of supplies arrived, begging her for more soldiers, but she had dragged her feet. "Im doing everything in my power to make sure the colonies under your leadership are protected, but these things take time." It frustrated him beyond measure, and though Hargrave was doing well in the governing side of things, he was no help in trying to get the soldiers they needed. He was to afraid of Empress Lena. Brennan had found himself throwing things across the room multiple times at news that another group of natives had attacked peaceful farmers or when another letter arrived telling him to keep waiting for the soldiers. It was ridiculous at this point.

Anastasia for her part did her best to help, but it soon became more and more apparent that Brennan did not want to help she was offering. So she began wandering the town a lot. There were things to see, and the abundance of trees and green grass was unlike anything she had ever experienced growing up on the gray, drizzly fields on the outskirts of Townhill. Here everything was lush. It was good to get out as well from the Governors Manor, though she wasn't a fan of the heat. She had made friends with the traders, and had begun frequenting the stalls manned by natives from the nearby tribe. They were close to the Bunga tribe, and the Islesish settlers had quickly managed to befriend them, trading what they had for what they needed, and vice versa.

It was a day like this when one of the traders, a young man named Asanis, had called out to her from across the square. He was selling fruit and juiced some of them as well if you knew to ask. "Anastasia," he said, waving her over. His accent was thick and his speech was halting and careful, but he spoke Mournlien well enough to communicate easily. "Come here and buy," he said, "I bring banana's and Papaya. And traders from across the way have even brought to me dates, I known they are a favorite of yours."

Anastasia grinned, and strolled through the square. Tow young boys ran by, waving sticks at each other, and she saw as one of the native traders sons pulled on his mothers clothes and pointed after them, asking if he could go and play. "How are you today Asanis," said Anastasia as she came to his stall. She looked over the fruits as she spoke, the sun on her neck pleasant and warm in the late afternoon.

"Good, good," replied Asanis. He smiled as she looked over the fruits, his smile growing even wider as she came to the dates. "You should have dates," he said, "The sweetest fruit for the sweetest girl."

Anastasia grinned and laughed. "You flatter me Asanis," she said, looking up at him. It was clear that he fancied her, though she had shown no interest back. Anastasia couldn't complain though, Asanis was sweet and friendly, and had never been anything but respectful, though that may have been due to the fact that Anastasia wore a sword.

"Im dont know that word," said Asanis.

"It means. . . Hmm. . ." said Anastasia, thinking about how to describe it. "Its like to praise someone in a way to make them feel good about themselves and the person praising them."

"Oh," said Asanis, "well then that is exactly what I am doing. You are a woman deserving of praise."

Anastasia laughed again, and suddenly found herself yawning. She yawned with such force that she felt like it might crack her jaw. "Im sorry," she said, "Im afraid I dont get much sleep lately."

"Why would that be?" said Asanis, leaning over on his stall conversationally.

"Oof," said Anastasia, leaning as well on the pole holding up the tapestry roof of the stall, "The reason for that would be Sallwick. We completely uproot from Mournly on the orders of the Empress to come to an entirely knew and unknown place. Im not sure where I am, I dont know the native culture, and in all honesty the water here made me sick when I first drank it. But, as if that wasnt enough, I now find myself awake half the night every night pouring over ledgers and letters and other documents just to try and help keep this place alive. It wasnt so bad at first, but Im also getting woken up at 5:00 every morning by Sallwick to practice boxing, and fencing, and marksmanship. Its exhausting after a while."

"Quite the adventure," said Asanis. "Though its exhausting, I cant help but feel a little envious."

"And why is that," said Anastasia.

"Well," said Asanis, "Ive lived my entire life here. My family is originally from the Bunga heartland, but we left to live here, and so this is all Ive ever known. You have left your homeland to explore an entirely new place, see knew things and learn for your civilization. Me on the other hand, I just sell fruits."

Anastasia looked down at her boots, shined to perfection as always, before looking back around at the fruit. "Well," she said, "either way, I think I will take some dates. I do love them."

"I knew you would not be able to stop yourself," said Asanis, gathering dates into a cloth knapsack and handing them to Anastasia. She took them, before digging in her pockets for the money required to pay him, but he quickly waved her off. "No pay is neccessary," he said.

"Dont be ridiculous," said Anastasia, "I have the money right here."

"I believe you have money," said Asanis, "But I want to give them to you. A gift."

Anastasia stood for a second, deciding weather or not she wanted to push it. "OK," she said. "Thank you."

"It is nothing," said Asanis. "Please do come back again," he called after her.

"Of course I will," said Anastasia, making her way back into the crowd. She made her way through the streets back to the Governors Manor, stopping once when two boys and a girl blocked her path and started asking her about her sword and pistol.

"Is that a real sword?" they said.

"Of course it is," said Anastasia.

"Wow, and the pistol too?" they said.

"My pistol too," said Anastasia.

They continued on for a while, and ran off giggling in amazement when she told them she was an assassin and thats why she needed those weapons. It was not untrue. She missed her family, and most of all she missed Sara, but she had had her revenge. The death of Bishop Hollcrick was no accident, just like the burning of Allencroft Manor.

When Anastasia made it back to the Governors Manor, she found Brennan in a state of inexplicable joy. He danced around the room, and a poor footman stood uncomfortably nearby, wringing his hands and making a face of confusion. "Yes!" cried Brennan, holding a letter over his head, "Thank the All Father, thank the Spirits, thank the Aether, that damned woman said yes!"

"What is it that you are talking about?" said Anastasia, her mouth full with dates.

"The Empress!" said Brennan, quickly running up to Anastasia, "Look at this," he said, thrusting a letter into her face. "She has given us permission to reach out to the Bunga's in alliance. She has given me permission to organize this. Oh thank the All Father, we arent alone out here anymore, we have friends!"

Brennan continued to revel in his excitement for some time, before finally sitting to contemplate how to handle the current

To whom it may concern,

It is our sincere hope that you, the leaders of the Bunga tribe, would be willing to meet in peaceful negotiation for an alliance between your nation and ours. We believe that together we can move forward in prosperity and friendship, and that an alliance and an official trade agreement will greatly benefit both the Bunga tribes and the Imperial colonies of Carinthia and Sallgrave.

Lord Alexander Hargrave, Governor of Sallgrave.

[Rannoria]

Rannkradle, Rannoria

September 23, 1743

It was a warm day in Rannkradle. Expected, though, as summer was soon approaching. A few months ago, the word of the discovery of a new continent had spread, and now, Rannoria had prepared its own expedition to this new world. A messenger entered the halls of Heibi Canres Ke, a major government building of Rannoria, and bowed before the High Priest, the Yado, in accordance to the language of the Hadorians. Below the Yado were the Lekots, the priests of Rannoria. Recently, a theocracy has risen to take rein of these isles of Rann, and thus the High Priest had absolute power over everything.

The messenger traversed up the winding stairs of the great temple, and on the top, sat the Yaido himself, Kaerka Mastaw, officially Kende'mastaw'do ("Yado Mastaw the Experienced"), noting things down in a book while muttering several things. The messenger bowed before him, and said, "Yado."

Mastaw looked up from his book, and stood up, nodding at the messenger. "Jumat. I assume this news is what I'm expecting?"

"Yes, Mastaw Yado. The fleet is ready. It is high time we show the capabilities of the Holy Dominion of Rannoria. It's time we show that we are better than the Kaders." The Kaders were the previous monarchy that ruled Rannoria only a century before. Their rule became weak, and despite that, many nobles who have been stripped of most of their powers sought out to restore them, mostly for personal gain. Anyhow, Mastaw didn't have to worry about that right now. Now, he had to settle in for the new colonies.

"Perfect. Send word to Admiral Markus to move now. Let this new continent know the might and strength of Heibi Canres, and may Bann'jo be merciful upon them!"


Pharusa, Mar'aey

March 8, 1750
It's almost been exactly seven years since Admiral Markus made his voyage to this new continent. Seven years for so many things to happen. When Markus arrived, he named the virgin territory that he landed at Mar'aey, which was partially named after him. Soon after, several voyagers went on expeditions to this new land where the possibilities were limitless. Two main colonies were established. These colonies were, as said before, Mar'aey, which was on the west of this new continent, and the other, Agukreik, situated more on the south of the continent. These colonies were ruled by priests and others appointed by the Yado himself, who took on the name of Viceroy-Priests, regardless of whether they had strong religious background or not. Under these colonies, were more districts ruled by people who were appointed by the Viceroy-Priest.

Ever since 1743, more people have been coming into and settling down on this new world. Whether it be people who come from the homeland, or natives who were either assimilated by peace, military force, or other ways, the population of these colonies were growing. Professions started up, and thanks to Rannoria's diverse homeland, people were able to assimilate quite well. Mar'aey, the western, desert colony ruled by Viceroy-Priest Jan Markus (or Vortan'markus'lekotora, "Viceroy-Priest Markus the Harbinger") was similar to Rannoria's largest island, which has a portion of desert in its centre, and so despite meeting very new animals, metals, and other things, and so the colonists (with native aid as well) were able to adapt quite quickly. Agukreik, the southern, forest colony ruled by Viceroy-Priest Chando Mashakk (or Vortan'mashakk'lekotora, "Viceroy-Priest Mashakk the Harbinger") was also similar to much of Rannoria, having both temperate and sub-tropical forests, and with the same case as above, the colonists were able to settle in well.

Pharusa, the capital of Mar'aey, has become a good trading port for exotic goods from this foreign desert to funnel through, along with several other coastal towns. Agukreik also had an abundance of local materials, and the port city of Ankkostad was at the base of an estuary. Inland of the colonies, new settlements popped up all around, and in those settlements, colonists and natives alike found jobs and started bonding. Governors who didn't antagonise the natives even met up frequently with local tribal leaders, and in those meetings they exchanged knowledge and goods. Viceroy-Priests would start learning about the other tribes and what was going on inland of the continent. Some native tribes who had no contact with gunpowder before now do, and would start with their own ideas. Spices, riches, and materials would be traded between the two sides, and both sides profited off this. Colonists were lured into these colonies with the promise of riches, and upon entering the several harbours of these countries, they were greeted with a good amount of riches, and were able to set off and make their own living.

All wasn't completely well, though. Recently, governors appointed by Viceroy-Priest Markus were having issues with the bordering natives, and thus Mashakk started pushing out the word to recruit into local militias and the Mar'aey military. Despite Rannorian troops coming in from the homeland every now and then, the Yado expected to have the Viceroy-Priests to recruit a sufficient army, and although Mashakk was able to do so well enough, sometimes he just needed a few more to be safe. Meanwhile, Chando Mashakk was a staunch follower of the Banjoist cult, and started recruiting for the Agukreiker Inquisition, which, in the future, would be used to combat heathens opposing the Stri'g-teon religion. Already, this group has been working under cover, burning small native villages who refuse to convert leaving no one alive. As of currently, they bide their time to do major strikes, and have been put on hold to deal with border issues between Rannorian settlers and native villagers, but in time, they will constitute a somewhat large part of the Agukreiker military.

[The Manticoran Empire]

Vicuna
The Manticoran Empire
Achara

Emperor William Javette, Third of his Name, walked briskly down the hall from his stateroom to his Council's meeting room, his footfalls echoing through the hallway as he walked. His mind raced with thoughts of the New World. The colony was only five years old but it was already the Empire's most valuable asset. Just over one million people lived in the colonies, a testament to the popularity of Parliament's colonization proclamation. Those colonists, despite their relatively small numbers, contributed tens of thousands of pounds to the Imperial economy every quarter, more in the harvest season. The terrain was well suited to farming and the coast, particularly the area where Loughdon sat, was well suited for shipping, with large, deep harbors and navigable rivers leading deep inland. Such a gem would, no doubt, draw the wanting gaze of the Empire's rivals. Steps would need to be taken to defend this most valuable of holdings but such steps would take money and the Empire's treasury was already being taxed by her Navy. The Navy was large, with more than 80 ships of the line and 120 frigates, mostly of the Third and Fifth Rates. The Navy, however, was wanting even more ships, with the most recent request of the Admiralty Board being 33 Ships of the Line and 58 Frigates. Never-mind their demands for almost three hundred sloops, which had been near constant for years. The Navy already cost the Empire close to a quarter of the Treasury per annum, a cost that some in Parliament wanted to cut down on. And, of course, there was the Army. 120 Regiments of Foot, 36 Regiments of Horse, 48 Regiments of Artillery, and then the Six Regiments of the Guard, bringing expenditures up even further, almost to a full forty percent of the Treasury. And the Army wanted more regiments, a full four dozen more Regiments of the Line and a tripling of the Regiments of Light Foot. The Gods only knew how much THOSE would cost the Empire, and that wasn't even getting into the Cavalry regiments they wanted to raise. A dozen regiments of heavy cavalry, two dozen of Dragoons, a dozen Hussars, and at least ten Regiments of Lancers, ON TOP of the three dozen regiments the Army already had. The Army, at least, had the sense not to demand the casting of more cannon.

At long last, he reached his destination, throwing open the ornately decorated doors, tossing aside the heavy mahogany slabs as easily as he would a curtain, hardly noticing the meticulously carved runes and gold-inlayed designs that celebrated the God of War. The uniformed officers in the room rose to their feet and bowed as he strode to his seat at the head of the table. "Let us dispense with the pleasantries, Gentlemen. We all know each other, we all know we have much to discuss, and I have a ball to attend. My wife, Gods Bless her, insisted on an elaborate party to celebrate my daughter's Thirteenth Year and I swore to her the day she was born, before all the Gods, that I would not miss a single one of her birthday celebration. Thus far, I have been true to my word. So, let us waste no more time. What is this urgent matter I have been summoned for?"
"The Colonies, Sire," said Thomas Robinson, the 13th Lord of Garsonbrey and the overall commander of the Imperial Army. "Yes," William replied, "What about the Colonies?"
"Well, Sire, they desire a permanent Army and Navy garrison, to deter the local native population and any rival powers."
"Oh? This required my presence, why?"
"Well, Sire, we thought it prudent to seek your approval first. After all, you do hold seniority over all of us."
"Send over two regiments of Horse, a Regiment of Artillery, a Regiment of Light Foot, and eight Regiments of Foot. Furthermore, instruct the Governor of the Colonies to raise a permanent garrison of Colonial troops with all haste. At least then we will have a local force that can provide the bulk of the firepower should anything happen there. Now, if that is all, I have a celebration to be at. I bid you all a good day."

[Bearstin]

Bungakan, Bunga territory
Oko'wan sat pensively in his mountain capitol on his outdoor throne. It had rained in the morning so the grass was moist and mist was rising from the valley. The sun had begun its descent towards the horizon and farmer on the other side of the river would be ending their days soon. Oko'wan rarely slept, not because he couldn't, but because he chose not to. For whatever reason, he never required as much sleep as other people so he stayed awake much of the night working, or walking with his entourage of guards, striking up conversation with each of them about their families. Respect went both ways in the royal court, and Oko'wan, unlike some of his predecessors, knew the importance of loyalty within the Royal Guards.

He had stood up and began walking, surrounded by his entourage of Royal Guards when a servant approached him, "My king, two foreigners wish to have an audience to discuss an alliance."

"I will take them on the outdoor throne."

[Kaitani]

New Misto, West Endale
"Apa! Apa!" A young girl, four years of age shouted excitedly for Lendal as he lifted her up onto his shoulders as he walked toward his wagon near the port he landed in with his wife, 2 sons, and 2 daughters. Lendal was a minister, ordered to oversee taxes in New Nidel. Lendal was actually excited to move to West Endale, it was much less crowded than the sprawl of Hidalto, it was a fresh new start. West Endale was also the better of the Three Colonies, its main intent being a new land for Carinians to live and thrive in.It was better than East Endale, a mostly uncivilized place inhabited much more by natives, with the exception of some noble Carinian merchants and missionaries. The main purpose of East Endale was to support the Carinian Empire by providing new never seen before goods.
West Endale also made manufactured goods from raw materials in the East and within itself.
He brought his youngest daughter, Mari, off his shoulders and into the back of the wagon, "Take us home." He said, a smile formed on his face, this was the beginning of a new life here.
Ensil, West Endale
A messenger entered the Cathedral door, and made his way to the bishop on the altar making preparations. Upon reaching the altar he made a reverent bow and spoke, "Your Excellency, a noble group of 15 missionaries have arrived today at the port to stay at the monastery outside of town."
The priest was delighted by the news, "Wonderful, bring them to me at sundown. I must meet them."
That night, the bishop met with the missionaries personally, greeting them and giving a warm welcome to Nordiuh, much went on in discussion but ultimately the bishop said, "In two weeks time it shall be then. I hope to see some success in your travel to that village and to bring many souls to the hands of Our Lord, these natives to our west are a lot more organized than most, and they are hospitable. I would like you to learn of their culture, and to stay at their village to learn about them, and that they learn about our ways so that they may turn from their own to come closer to glory. Do not stir conflict, men, for we do not wish for violence, but we wish for their salvation."


OOC:
Bearstin I think you know what I'm getting at here.

[Bearstin]

Kanganga, Bunga Territory
The small village of Kanganga was a Bunga settlement on the border of the Bunga's and Carinian Empire. It was a big exporter of timber and food to the capitol so likewise a small military presence was maintained. The town was surrounded by a large stone wall to deter enemies and regulate who went in and out of the city. Farms and housing were outside the wall as well as some businesses. Inside the wall, housing for nobles, a marketplace, a castleish structure for the village elder, and large businesses. There was a decent amount of empty space so buildings can be built at will.

The village elder was sitting in her house, burning incense and praying to the sun which was shining brightly upon the village today. There was shuffling coming from the door and she opened her eyes but didn't turn around. The footsteps approached her and came slowly into view but instead of a servant offering water and a messenger with a message, it was a foreigner. She summoned an interpreter and whispered something to him.

"Welcome to Kanganga," the interpreter translated, "I am the great elder of this village. State your business."

Bungakan, Bunga Territory
Oko'wan sat in his study writing a letter, a letter that was long overdue. He was addressing it to Adeza, a tribe they had once been friendly but had recently won a long series of wars against. The Adeza and Bunga needed to get along if they were to survive on what had become a dangerous continent.

To the great rulers of Adeza, where the sun never fails to shine,
I, Oko'wan, leader of the great Bunga ask the Adeza to join us in forgiving each other in the favor of friendship. With all the foreignors coming here, it is unclear whether we will survive, and we must band together to repel and discourage any invaders. We hope you will fairly consider our offer.
-Oko'wan

He summoned a messenger, "deliver this to the Adeza rulers."

[Kaitani]

Kanganga, Bunga
The messenger bowed respectfully and spoke, "I am the humble Yosen Rilas, I come from the Carinian settlement not far from here, a large base of operations for our colonial works in this continent. Your culture has come to our interests to expand our intellectual knowledge in Carinia. We wish to learn more from it. And we feel you may learn from our culture as well. We can teach you many truths, Elder, most importantly, the truth that is Our Lord Jesus Christ. We wish for your permission to preach and study within these walls for the better of both our societies."

[Bearstin]

Kanganga. Bunga Lands
After the translator had translated what the foreigner had said, the elder stared quizzically at the man. She spoke to the translator and he translated, "I have lived a very long life, and never have I heard of a Jesus Christ. The Sun would have spoken of him to me, but, I notice you are a younger man, and age does not equate to knowledge. I will give you land inside the walls for you to do as you please, but I must warn you, not all villages will take to your presence kindly. I am only accepting this because I have seen the might of your people, and I don't believe my village could stand up to it and remain in one piece."

[Rannoria]

Nieuw Admiraalstad, Mar'aey

Summer, 1750
A man and a woman are seated in front of each other. In the five years this settlement has been here, there's already been trouble lurking about. Nieuw Admiraalstad was planned to be one of the major inland towns, yet it didn't hit even close. In Nieuw Admiraalstad, the small outlaw and smuggling populace were at home. Native harassers could stay there without getting bothered, and what were the local constables doing? Nothing. They were in cohorts with the criminals. It went on about this until, one day, in 1749, came a man who spent half his life in the colonies. In 1745, he arrived with his late father, Bungert Iks, and spent his years from age 13 living in Nieuw Admiraalstad. At an age that was just under the legal one, he joined the local authorities, and for whatever reason he became Nieuw Admiraalstad's first good constable. Jonatan Iks was his name, and he was only 17. No one knows why he's good, but now he intends to make Nieuw Admiraalstad right. For the five years the town has been in Mar'aey, it has never really grown. Its criminal population, despite being a very small minority in all of the colony, has driven away new settlers, and the town hasn't hit a large population size. Only the unfortunate folks who picked the place to live in at 1745, Jonatan included, stayed, and they were terrorised. Jonatan's actions in the past year were able to motivate some people into doing good, and they have shown to be effective. People from outside the town are beginning to think that Nieuw Admiraalstad might change. Now, though, he has a personal issue to deal with.

"Outlaw Flexho'ibu. It's about time I've met you." Started Jonatan.

"Ah, well, if it isn't the little dreamer from here," she said, "you've finally caught me. I suppose you're going to arrest me, or something like that, but I don't think that's how it's going to go."

Jonatan laughed. "No, I think that's how it's going to go. There are three constables here, and only one of you. Your flintlock pistol is gone, and so is your musket and sword. Just tell me three things. Why did you found the Triple Winds, where is the location of the Triple Winds' headquarters, and why do you kill random people for sport? Specifically, my father."

Flexho'ibu paused for a bit, and smiled. "Do you think I'm going to tell you anything. Okay, maybe I'll tell you one thing. Many people think Mar'aey is a barren wasteland. Well, some of it is, but it isn't all that. Here, you've got exotic goods, animals, other things. You won't believe how much money you make just by selling the skin of one animal to some rich man in the homeland. Why I kidnap some natives or settlers is because some people here live on the unregulated side of life, and would be willing to pay a good amount of cash for it. Asides from living a nice life and whatnot, I also got a family to feed, boy. I have two sons and a daughter whose father walked out and was killed in a rowdy bar-fight which need the proper education so they don't end up where I am. I gotta admit, I hate what I do, but I love it at the same time. You can't get this rich from being, I'm not sure, a prostitute or whatever. So, that's all I'm going to say. It's quite a bit, but that doesn't tell you anything."

Jonatan glanced at the outlaw. "You have children? Well, it'd sure be a pity for them to never see their mother again, huh? Tell me where the Triple Winds operate, and why you kill random people. Now. Or else, I'll have to resort to other measures."

This time, Flexho'ibu laughed. And she kept going at it, to the point where Jonatan's smirk was faltering. She calmed down, still smiling, and said, "You really think I'm going to tell you anything? You think you're going to get answers out of me this easily? I'm not going to let some 18 year old kid who has big dreams get in the way of one of the biggest underground commercial empires in the colonies, and I'm not going to let you make my children cry."

"And how are you going to do that when we have you here?"

"Well. Perhaps you should've considered another town for interrogation."

As if on cue, gunshots outside the room were heard. Jonatan looked at the the door which was the only entrance into the room, and he looked to the constables who were with him. The gunshots were getting closer, and the three constables were getting worried. They couldn't shoot Flexho'ibu, as she was the only lead to the Triple Winds they had, and so they were stuck. A few seconds later, the door was kicked open, and a group of men and women came through. The three constables were no match for the 10 or so outlaws that had come in.

"I wouldn't pull out your guns if I were you." Flexho'ibu said. One of the men untied the ropes that held the outlaw's arms to the chair, and the outlaw stretched them. "Really? The authorities here are so poor you can't even afford handcuffs? Then again, it only took 10 or so armed outlaws to wipe out all the honest constables here, so I'm not surprised. Shoot the other two."

The two constables with Jonatan dropped onto the floor, leaving him alone. "Should we get him?" Asked another man.

"No, leave him. Let's see how far he gets before we tear his dream down." And with that, Jonatan did nothing, and they left.

[Kaitani]

The villagers were sure to have mixed feelings about all this.

[Bearstin]

Kanganga, Bunga
Almost instantly after the conversation in the village center, the villagers fell into the clutch of Carinians ways. A Church was built and missionaries were on the street corners “enlightening” any tribesman that would give them the time of day. An argument had broken out between the Elder and a Missionary about directions to another town and it seemed as if this town was divided. The Village Council was not opposed to these new ideas, and the Elder put up a front of acceptance but this new foreign influence over her village, the poison called Christianity upset her. The warriors and the council were now against her, and her power could only be maintained for a little longer. Most people saw this, but were indifferent.
One such bystander, Ryuga, was 16 years old. A sort of syncretic mix between Christianity and Bunga Tradition has emerged and he wished to share it with the rest of the empire. He approached a missionary on the street corner and utilizing their language, he asked about how he too could become a missionary.

[Kaitani]

Kanganga, Bunga
The missionary Ryuga spoke to was one of the younger bunch preaching, but he was still quite highly ranked among them. His name was Dae Noen, he was a missionary from Ilso, a small town in Andea who came to the continent to preach, there was nothing much for him back home and this mission gave him purpose. He was in his early 30s, and this week held the responsibility of preaching near the marketplace, he greeted Ryuga kindly. "Becoming someone to say the Good News is quite easy, only if you're dedicated. You must be educated in he Holy Faith, that is all that is required, young man. I see much in you. You can approach us at the mission at any time. Here I would like you to have this," he pulled a Rosary from his pocket, "I have a few of these, and I would like you to keep it. You can meditate with it, and it will help you, you can learn how to pray with it should you join us."

[Rannoria]

Pharusa, Mar'aey

Jonatan walked into the General Mar'aeye Enforcement Office, where he was greeted by laughs. Word had got around on how the "kid who dreamed" from Nieuw Admiraalstad had a huge blunder, and how understaffed and undersupplied the authorities in Nieuw Admiraalstad were. He ignored the laughs, took a breath, then carried on upstairs. he dropped off at the second floor, and entered a small office, where Pieter Kuning, head of border enforcement affairs sat. Pieter was one of the few people who still thought that Jonatan Iks should be cut some slack, but despite what he tells his peers, there was no occasional joke about the young constable.

"Afternoon, Pieter."

"Fine day, isn't it, Jonatan?"

Jonatan snorted. "Well, asides from several people looking at me strangely, and a particularly blazing sun along with a rough ride from Nieuw Admiraalstad to here, it's been good." He took his travelling hood off, and sat himself down. Pieter put some paper away, and Jonatan asked, "Pieter, I'd like to call in that favour."

The man raised his eyebrow, "What for?"

"You know what this is about. I need to catch on to the Triple-"

But the Head silenced the boy for a moment. "Jon, I know you want to know why they targeted your father, and why they did in that way, but don't you think it's enough by now? He's been gone for how many years by now, and I'm sorry to break it to you, but I don't think I can do this for you."

"Pieter, please. You and my father were good friends. Do it for his sake. Either way, you have to try. This is calling the favour in."

Kuning paused for a moment. "Alright, I'll help you. What do you need?"

"Now we're talking," Jonatan smiled. At last, he was going somewhere, "I need to find connections to the Bunga Tribe. It's only been a week or two since the incident, but we've already got someone. He's spilled, and now we have a lead. I've been told they've been doing something with the Bunga peoples, and I need you to arrange transport for me."

"And why don't you ask the Head of Mar'aeye Foreign Affairs, or one of his subordinates?"

"Because he won't listen, and won't give me official licensing to do this. I can't afford to go on an official transport, and I've thought about sneaking aboard a ship or something like that, but before that, I decided to come to you for help. Please, just try your best."

Pieter looked at Jonatan for a moment and paused. In the 17-year-old's eyes was a fire, one that was once in Pieter around thirty-something years ago back in Gardomen at the homeland, and with a sigh, he agreed.

[Bearstin]

Kanganga, Bunga
Over the next couple of days, Ryuga devoted most of his time to studying at the mission. He wasn't the most conforming student, secretly mixing his own ideas and interpretations into his learnings, but for the most part, he had an idea of what the lord was all about. He was still learning, and devoted most of his free time to reading the Bible and interpreting it. In two weeks, he planned on departing to a neighboring village to spread the Holy Truth.

Onaga, Bunga
Onaga was about 25 km north of Kanganga and many more from the Capitol atop the mountain. Given its distance, only a small garrison of five hundred troops were located in the village. Four hundred and fifty were just regular infantry with swords and bows while fifty or so more senior members of the infantry managed to trade for muskets, rifles, and large amounts of ammunition. Onaga, before the arrival of the foreigners, was a thriving agricultural village, a village that received little attention from the throne, and therefore was never caught up in drama. After the arrival of the foreigners, Onaga was caught up in the dark side of humanity. The village was the victim of night raids that resulted in some of their people missing. Often, the local garrison struggled to repel these invaders not because they were a large force (they usually only numbered 7-8) people, but because the group was strategic about the kidnappings.

Bunga Colonel Rezina, was sitting on the roof top, cleaning his rifle when pops could be heard in the street below. "Sound the alarm, we are being raided again!"

The warrior beside him picked up a horn and blew into it, creating a loud sound that would surely wake up the garrison if not the entire village. Warriors poured out onto the street, and even more popping to be heard. Rezina jumped from rooftop to rooftop, until he spotted one of the criminals, he took aim and fired, barely missing this cloaked man, the soldier behind him shot, again missing the man. He turned into a dark alley between two large stone structures and before they had jumped from the roof, the man was gone. The ran down the street and found a small firefight in the market.

"We need to drive them away, shoot to kill now, we must strike fear in their hearts!" Rezina shouted.

Two of the criminals fell to the gunfire and before long, the rest had retreated. "Give me the assessment of the attacks in the morning. I want casualties for both sides, amount kidnapped, and damages in a full report"

Rezina strolled back to the Elder's Hut, which he had occupied since the last Elder was kidnapped. He had assumed full control of the village and suspended the Elder's Council in order to make sure attacks like these didn't happen more. He needed to get to the bottom of this, and he felt as if these criminals were far bigger than this village, and possibly than he could imagine.

[The Manticoran Empire]

Loughdon, Cambrea Colony, Noriuh
Governor Neil Robertson sat behind his desk, trying hard not to look at the red-uniformed officer standing in front of him. The presence of His Majesty's Regulars meant two things and neither of them were good. Either the political situation back in Achara was indicating a major war in the colonies could flare up or the Crown was going to start a major war in the colonies. "Governor Robertson, I would appreciate it if you would stop pretending to ignore me." Robertson looked up at the officer and said, "Very well, Colonel. What exactly does the Crown have in store for this Colony?"
"Simple, Sir. I am to provide the Colony with military defense and to support you in raising and training a dedicated Colonial Militia. The details are included in the letter from His Majesty." Robertson opened the letter in question and read it carefully. Sure enough, the Emperor was charging him with raising a Militia to defend the colony from the ambitious rivals on Achara. He would need to get the Legislature to provide the funds and he would need to gather volunteers from the Colony's population and he would have to provide for the needs of the Regulars now thrust upon him. Wonderful, he thought, Spectacularly wonderful. He rose from his desk and walked towards the officer. "Tell me, Colonel, what do you require to begin setting up these training camps?"
"I will require land, timber to build a fort with barracks and armories, and men to train."
"I'll see to it that you get what you need. Just, please keep your men from making a mess of Loughdon."

[Kaitani]

Kangana, Bunga

One night, smoke filled the east side of the Mission, it wasn't incense, it was fire. No one was hurt, but many items were damaged or destroyed, and the evidence pointed toward anti-Christian villagers. This instance was reported and tensions grew between Carinians and the native people, within a week, 8 guards were sent to the mission.

Ailea, East Endale, Carinia
Ailea was one of the only major cities in East Endale, but it was sitting near something very important, an eastern part of the Bunga Empire, a river valley, capable to supporting many Carinian plantations full of exotic crops, a massive potential source of profit. Of course, Carinians are never people to pass up such a place without taking a look, so governor Irel Cilida me with advisors and generals about this.

"This river valley is vast, and from our sources, has the conditions necessary for a wonderful site to colonize and grow crops for Carinians, as well as a great vantage point for missionary work, and expanding Carinian influence. It also has a coastline, a perfect site for a port to extend commerce across the continent, inland, and on the outer shores. The Bunga have foolishly wasted this land by leaving it sparsely populated, and haven't engaged in any mass farming efforts, they have not even used the coasts here. We should make good use of this land, for the Empire, and what we stand for as Carinians."

The decision was made, and a month or so later, the a fleet of about 15 ships began to encroach on the shores of that border province onto a coastal city. An ambassador was sent, Dinel Koan, to discuss with leaders in that area what can be done for the Carinians to properly make use of this valley.

[Rannoria]

Bungakan, Bunga Lands
Jonatan Iks arrived at the heart of the lands of the Bunga people, and it was a marvel. The difference between two countries can be astounding, and this applied. The technology, the culture, and the daily goings of the different peoples in Bungakan were wonderful. Jonatan could've wondered around for a long time, but he had a job to do, and he had to do the job right. His father's old friend, Pieter Kuning, had pulled some strings to get him here, and he hoped to catch the notorious Triple Winds organisation that had been terrorising his mind and town since the death of his father. Through some questionable methods of interrogation, the garrison at Nieuw Admiraalstad, now backed with aid from several towns, was able to gain knowledge that the Triple Winds have been operating in the Bunga Lands.

Already, even before entering the capital, Jonatan felt the tension that the locals emanated. Although Jonatan went by relatively unscathed, some people gave him strange, distrustful, or even disgusted looks as he walked and traveled from place to place. Once or twice, some people spat at him. With some loss of dignity, he continued onwards, avoiding conflict between the natives of Nordiuh. Now, in Bungakan, he couldn't help but feel a bit tense. Soon, he was lost as he was without a guide, until he saw a fellow Rannorian nearby.

"A Rannorian?" Jonatan thought, "What would he be doing here?" He walked up to the man and greeted him in Rannoire, "Hello there. I'm Jonatan Iks, and I need your help."

The man looked at him with surprise, and spoke. "Ah, a Rannorian. Why are you here, and why do you need my help?" He smiled, a smile that was unsettling to Jonatan. He scanned the man's clothes for a bit, and spotted something on his chest. On there was the Agukreiker Inquisitor Badge, a new position to help incorporate native populaces into the Stri'g-teon religion, but around the badge was a purple and white outline: the outline of a Tankar.

Iks decided to ask about the man after they were over introductions. With a smile, he replied, "I was just looking where the ruler of the Bunga would be. I'm with the Mar'aeye authorities, a constable with leads on a criminal organisation. I was just looking for Bunga assistance on the situation."

"Ah, yes. You can follow me then." The man started walking, and Jonatan followed suit. "So, I wonder, do they teach you about what certain positions are in Mar'aey?"

"Yes, they do, Inquisitor. I can see you are also a Tankar; a man who satisfies the gods."

"Ah, that's good. Well, it's good to see that both colonies are learning from each other, eh?" The man chuckled. "Oh, by the way, terribly sorry. I'm Garten Xxo. I've already caught your name earlier, so no need for further introductions." And for a few minutes they stayed silent, walking onwards. Iks didn't know much about what the Inquisitors were. Created only in the previous year, 1749, the Viceroy-Priest of Agukreik just said that it would be useful for the natives to get along better with Rannorian settlers in terms of religion. But if so, why didn't they just send regular missionaries? Rannoria nor Mar'aey had this position, as they could just send missionaries over instead of creating a new office in the government. Anyhow, it wasn't a Mar'aeye man's thoughts to question an Agukreiker's. Intrigued, though, Jonatan decided to question Garten.

"So, Inquisitor-Tankar Garten, what is it you do in the Agukreiker Inquisition? And what does a Tankar do? I haven't had the chance to question any."

"Ah, young Jonatan, it's such a wonder to work for the will of the gods. Being an Inquisitor is interesting, as we're somewhat of a more, err, militaristic missionary force. While Mar'aey deals with rebellious native cultures, Agukreik deals more with natives who wish to serve their own devilish gods, and so the heathens must come to terms with the harsh truth when it comes to falling under the banner of the Grand Land. Follow the String Pantheon, or be imprisoned until conversion. Although it may seem a bit harsh, it's what we have to do. Death is, well, a tad too far though." Jonatan nodded, and Garten continued. "Meanwhile, being a Tankar is a bit more interesting. People seek you out, and ask for your advice and help from the gods, to put it simply. For instance, someone asks me for career advice. I aid them, and in turn, I require something to sate the gods for their help. It ranges from small things, such as physical exercise, to exchanging valuables things, or even more. Being a Tankar can get you quite far." With that ending note, the Inquisitor looked at Jonatan's eyes, and they pierced straight into his soul. The man continued, "So tell me, what's your case?"

But before Jonatan could say anything, Garten stopped. "We've arrived." Garten went to a man who seemed to be a servant, and asked for a man named Oko'wan.