Through the ages ( IC, Open)

[Albertae]

City of Avendor, Fortress of Redfort Keep
The Gates

King Huidemar rides high on his stallion next to his diplomat and general. The diplomat goes through several tongues to see which language the natives speak, Rhefugi. He greets them saying,"We seek the King of these lands."

[Wessexx]

Capitol City Stockhorum, City Gates


The city breathed and gorged itself. The tumultuous movements of its inhabitants created a cancerous pattern of fluctuations within its streets. Svalbard rode his horse through the main street of Stockhorum, its sides lined with businesses and market stalls, though all passerby gave way to the king. His Chancellor and Spymaster rode along side him, and behind them their bodyguard. His lamellar-clad elite Krigare trotted menacingly through the streets driving both fear and respect into the hearts of the peasants.

As they reached the gates, Svalbard called over his Chancellor, "Axel, old friend, I wish to expand the lands of our people and bring prosperity to them. In order to achieve this we must open up our borders somewhat, and only to a select few."

The Chancellor spoke up indignantly, "My liege this is preposterous, letting foreigners into our land shall bring about the end of our people. Everyone knows those foreigners are the filth of he world. The slavers and pillagers of the south shall rob us of our women and gold, the greedy merchants of the south will cheat us blind, and the uncivilized barbarians of the western Isles shall pollute our rich culture!"

Svalbard threw his hand up to signal that Axel should silence himself , "While that is true, we must utilize some of them in order to benefit us. My reports show that the raiders to the south are fine seamen and weapon-smiths and a kingdom far to the south, Prador I believe its name is, shares many of our cultural values. So it does not cause a stir we will limit the foreigners to be only merchants and representatives from the rulers, as well as the rulers themselves."

"The eye is thy's," the Chancellor revealed his submissive position by chanting the traditional Sverige expression of defeat.

"Spymaster Lofric, approach!", the sudden greeting surprised the spymaster who had to quickly speed up his horse, "Write down two letters for me and send them immediately with messengers, you can make them the same in wording just change the names. I'm feeling quite lazy today in order to prepare for the hectic day of tomorrow."

To:King Huidemar of Prador/Fylkir Avenldr Greycloak of Stórrmmark
Good tidings fellow monarchs, I am King Gustav Svalbard of Sverige. After mush debate I have found it in my best interest to make contact with you. I will not ask much of you for I do not mean to offend or appear overbearing. I believe it would be best to start a healthy relationship between our people through a simple trade pact. My land is rich in ores, fish, coal, and amber. I would also like to mention our abundance of apple farming to produce hard cider, for I believe any man no matter their homeland can appreciate the taste of quality beer. I sincerely do hope you come to a conclusion which will benefit both of our people most of all.

Sincerely, King Gustav Svalbard "The Great"

"Axel, do you think I was being too familiar in tone in my letter? " , Svalbard looked at the the Chancellor shaking his head no. He thought that now of all times he refuses to utter a single word! He signal for his entourage to stop, they were to wait for an escort of Krigare to help them travel to the High Wall of the Lord. It was a new defensive structure which was built on the only road that was the only quality road in the mountain pass that led into the southern portion of the kingdom. Svalbard had commissioned it five years prior and it was to finish its final stage of construction by the time he arrived. A thought had been born into his mind, he thought if it would actually serve to protect the Sverige or if it simply was a false hope that would only create a delusion of safety.

---

Isle of Skye. Fort Timmerhjärta

Captain Wolnir, leaning on the gate, looked over the beginnings of the fort. It was to be the new settlement's main bastion of safety. Construction was going fast, in fact about three hundred men who were some of the soon to be settlers had just arrived over the past week and had quickly helped speed up the process. He spotted a young ten-year old boy carrying a stack of fire wood to some older men. He had a peculiar scar on his cheek and the blackest hair he had ever seen. He turned to his second-in-command and commented on him.
"Aye, Oscar, you've heard of that rumor about the king having a bastard some time ago. Presumably he tried to kill him all discreet like but the mother manged to get him way. "

The short hairy man who was Wolnir's second-in-command responded curtly "Oy, don't tell me you've gon' all woman like and started following them court gossip."

"Oh piss off you, .......should have known better than ask a slob like you." Embarrassed but not defeated, Wolnir walked up to the boy and tapped him on the shoulder, asking him confidently, "Hey boy, give you name and what's a cub like you's doin here?"

The black-haired boy turned to him, his cold steely eyes not giving any hints of weakness, "Mordred, my name is Mordred."

[The Forsworn Knights]

City of Avendor, Outside the Fortress of Redfort Keep
The guards laughed good-naturedly, crossing their halberds over the gate to the castle. The one on the left nudged his companion to stop laughing, before turning back to Huidemar. "Our master, the Free Archduke of Nombathia is currently in his chambers riddled with the plague. I can go see if his son, Sir Godrick has left on that exploration mission yet. What name and titles shall I present to the young Lord, sir?"

---

City of Avendor, Courtyard of Redfort Keep
Sir Godrick of House Marthart stood in his full suit of armor as he saddled his horse. To his left stood a large group of five Huntsmen, fifteen Squires, and thirty five Retainers as they loaded a small caravan of carts. To his right were fifteen Knight-Housecarls, five Prophets of Death, as they waited for their young lord to call the march.
Excluding Sir Godrick, there were sixty men in the party, with four retainers tasked with driving the supply carts. Two knights who were to lead the Vanguard wore polished armor, and bore Marthart banners. All the Squires and Retainers wore at least Chainmail with heraldic tabards, while the Huntsmen bore leather.
The Knights and Prophets of Death all bore varying forms of Plate and Chain, with the prophets bearing red shields painted on their chestpieces to signify their position.

[Naval Monte]

Carmina Gadelica, The Great Amphitheater

The crowds of Carim sat in silence as the dancers performed their enchanting dances as the singers hypnotized those who watch the play with their voices as they sang. Like all great plays many in the cities treated them as great festivals as most workers took the time off to see the reenactment of one of their sagas play before their eyes. Many of the thralls and braells moved through the rows and climbed up and down the stairs delivering drinks and foods to those in the amphitheater.

The dancers and singers have moved as one of the actors playing as one of Carim's heroes took to center stage and began to fight against another actor who was one of the many villains of the saga, this actor was also a criminal condemned to death and whose punishment was to die in the play. Many in the crowd cheered and jeered throughout the real battle being shown to them. Just as the battle looked as though it was going badly for the hero many gasped and worried that the criminal would win but by a struck of luck and skill the hero of the play manage to get his weapon and kill the villain, the actor/criminal falling down dead as a large gaping hole now is on his chest from which a sword stabbed through.

The crowd applauded the man as the hero bowed to them. Among the ones clapping was the Matriarch of Carim, Freyja. A woman in her late thirties who's carry an amazonian beauty to her. Her fiery red hair and sea green eyes watch the actor as she gives him the smallest of smile. The body stayed as they need it for the rest of the act as the hero was rewarded and praised by the other actors. Soon the body and actors changed as the next and final play began.

---

Matriarch Palace, Freyja's home

Freyja was inside her personal bath and as she enjoyed the warm provided to her by the water she moved her fingers across the smooth and polished imported marble that was used to make it along with the marble used to make the palace. She heard a knock on the door. "You have permission to enter." she order and as the door open she saw the three men and two women that made up as members of the fives auspices of the technocracy.

While they appeared unarmed and unarmored their appearance looked harmless but in truth they are armed with poisoned daggers and behind the door are assassin warriors waiting behind the door. The five officials knee and bow before Freyja, placing their hands on their hearts. While they often take most responsible on controlling the nation they still respect her for she has power over them as they have power over her, a system to make sure there was balance between them.

Ahroun Asger, an old and scarred warrior with grayish blond hair with one eye, was the first to speak. "Ma'am the ice is melting and the waters are calm, raiding season has begun anew and our neighbors have started before us. We request for you to declare raiding season open and for us to pick our main targets for our venture." Freyja spoke in a tone that sound like it belong to that of a singer yet carried the same cold edge of a soldier. "Yes, the time has come for our raiders, traders and adventurers to venture away from Carim and to explore the world. I will declare these men and women the freedom to sail forth and to gather with them these targets. Our main target is both knowledge and new seeds and animals for food. These two will be our main source for our raids."

She declared, she looked down at the five people. "As for our neighbors we have keep good relationships between them and so far I have no intentions on ruining our relationship, as such I request the opening of new trade routes and the improvement of old ones. Freyja got up and walked out of the bath, the auspices still looking down as braell maidens came over to dry her off. "The land to the west and the island to the northern west will be our first raiding targets and we will pay for them in blood." Once she was given her clothing she put them on herself, the among the fine silk dress and jewelry the cape made of raven feathers was the most striking feature of her attire.

"Prepare your fleet Ahroun Asger and choose your warriors, we must gather these new settlements before it is too late." She turned her sight to a man with dark brown long hair, long bushy mustache and short beard. "Galliard Audun, have you and a few of your people meet up with our neighbors soon to insure that our good ties are maintained. I want you to start with the Storrmmarkers first." Audun agreed with the matriarch. She and the other five soon walked out of the bathroom and head towards the throne room to continue with their meeting.

[Argentumurbem]

Commune prez Grya el Cair Lynn Folo
The Wisemen Senate of the Stone Blade Mountain

Donan, Egon, 3rd Lexumate of Naphine

The Lexe smiled as the councilors turned to face him, easily within speaking distance. There were twelve of them, equal in age yet with half of the wisdom such a great number of years should have provided. In Faelon, those twelve were known as heroes. Their donations and fair wages were known to every decent citizen in the growing settlement. For an uninterrupted run of nine years this union of landowners had made a point of representing the people during the senate meetings. It was common knowledge that they fought tooth and nail to lift the ancient tribal border tarrifs, thus permitting free trade to flow to even the most remote of villages. They had paid for road repair out of their own treasuries, giving the work over to freemen rather than relying on cheap chattel slavery.

Marosis knew them for what they were. He had grown up with them. Cheats and liars every one of them. Not that he was any different of course, but as it stood they were on the wrong side of the room. His friends were expected to congregate beside the ornamental pool, not around the meeting table. No, as they sat they were his enemies. Liars and cheats all of them.

"Well fared friends," the Lexe began, his mouth moving quickly from one word to the other. "When you spoke of an important meeting I did kn-"

"The Cao have been defeated," one of the seated senators interrupted, his fingers tapping along the brim of a small scroll. "Or at least what seems to amount to the same thing."

"Yes I have seen the report," Marosis replied, slowly walking around the table. It was rich oak, charted from a land he could not even pronounce. "But it is too early to make such bold claims. The Cao have more than a single town."

"But they do not have more than a single army." Another man had joined in, he specialty being to infiltrate the barbarians through trade. A risky enterprise but it brought with it enough gold to off-set the danger.

"Indeed, our scribes is recording three octri slain and thrice that in displaced. Even if the survivors were to reunite, they have lost their champions."

"And we all know that the vagrants do not return if their warriors have been dispatched. It seems the plan to have your man earn a triumph for office has worked."

"My man?" He cursed himself softly at the certainty in which his former partner had laid down the accusation. They had someone in his household passing on secrets. They were so certain that they did not even give him the luxury of answering the question, a fourth man instead raising his voice to join the rest.

"If his victory is genuine then you have secured yourself a respite, nothing more. The Cao have links running deeper than sentinel roots among the other barbarians."

"And this, campaign, we must accurately assume is nothing more that a drape over the real target. Is it not Marx?"

For a brief moment the old man thought to deny it. The Cao had settled, or at least what passed for settlement among those untrained brutes, across enough land to support a large town. The barbarians had used it to keep a motley circle of huts, their people scattered across the length and breadth of it. It was good land, good enough to warrant war for.

"The Borvemars are making their annual migration south," he finally replied. "I have heard mutterings that they have bonded with the Javri and a dozen other clans."

He did not speak further, least they take the information straight to his opponents in the senate. The Lexe knew that they could be trusted even less now, and before he could only trust them as far as to cast a shadow upon his threshold whenever they needed his support. No, he merely left them with implication.

"How many others have bonded?"

"I know not the names. Smaller clans from further north, from the far east. Many have never even seen the plains they are coming to reclaim."

The council remained quiet for longer than a moment, absorbing the news. He could almost read their thoughts, each one weighing up the costs and benefits of siding either against or with him. They could topple him, was the general consensus. But whoever arose after him could easily fall shortly after, leaving them beggared after supporting a lost runner.

War, as it stood, was an uncertain business.

[Cuprum]

We had come back from tending to the land. Albion was blossoming in the Spring sunshine, and what we saw gave us hope for the realm's future. Our people are numerous, and proud of our heritage as warriors. Prince Louis had become an able leader, and our cavalry, so famed throughout the land, was beginning to regain its strength.

These were dangerous times, but we had no reason to fear anyone, for we are the Highlanders.

I, Edward, am the brother of our Holy Emperor. Father had intimated that I assume that position instead, but what is past is gone now. My brother had been a good Emperor and a caring brother to Albert and myself. The fortunes of our clan were more important now, and serving it would be my greatest honour, in life or glorious death.

“My lord!!”

The lone messenger who disturbed the council of elders practically threw himself into the courtyard, and now lay prostrate before us. The elder generals reacted with angry stares to this transgression, but said nothing as Edward beckoned him to speak. Such a dramatic entrance surely meant an urgent matter at hand.

“My Lord, our scouts have reported a barbarian force entering the west of Albion. They numbered many, and seemed to be headed to Perth. We must do something.”

A sudden hush befell the council, followed by murmurs of surprise and discussions of the appropriate response, Edward demanded silence with the rise of his hand, and all of us fell quiet. Some among our ranks had long been eager to wage war against the treacherous Barbarians, but now that this day had come, they watched their Overlord intently, eagerly awaiting his command.

“The day has come. We march at day break.”

We found the Barbarians camped upon a hill. Our scouts had done well, and we were pleased to see that we had an advantage. Sensing our superiority, Edward addressed the troops, reminding them of the duty they were bound by. To protect Albion and its people, to honour the royal name, and to wipe these treacherous swine from our land.

Prince Louis had positioned the cavalry wide right, and it was these brave men who led the assault on the hill. It would be a steep climb, but our horsemen would expect no less. As they were about to engage, however, they turned and the enemy infantry followed. The ruse had worked perfectly, as waiting for these men were the finest warriors. Butchery would not have been a strong word for what ensued.

Prince Louis ordered his men to dismount and I followed suit. Horses were a precious commodity, and being on mounted would offer us no advantage over the enemy’s pike. I ordered my men to join our brave brothers, and charged into the fray. An arrow whistled past my ear as I thrusted my trusted longsword into the first enemy solder. Our men fought valiantly, and brave men were cut down on both sides.

Meanwhile, the cavalry had ploughed into the enemy archers, causing great cries of pain and despair among the enemy who were handily cut down. As the tide of battle began to turn Prince Louis threw himself into the fray, and the sight of our Holy Emperor leading the line inspired us all. Quickly enough the Barbarian dogs faltered, and we duly gave chase. We pursued for several miles and the enemy were vanquished utterly.

The Barbarians would regret the day they set foot in Albion. This was just the beginning.

Barely had we made camp had the scouts’ messenger birds arrived. The news was not good. A second raider force was merely four days march from us. That gave us enough time to gather supplies and regroup, but not enough to bring reinforcements from Albion. We would have to depend on what we had, and despite victory today, a defeat would surely be a crippling blow to our ambitions. It was time for brave hearts and a strong spirit. Our forefathers would expect nothing less.

The four days were spent burying the dead, watering the horses and allowing the men to recouperate. Word had come from the scouts that this second force was less formidable than the last, which was a tonic to the many wounded and weary among our ranks. The day before last we were informed that the enemy army was led by Ragnar Löfstedt, their Chief, and this created considerable excitement among the council. Albert and The Emperor before him had considered the west key to our ambitions, and now, it seemed, we were closer than ever to our goal, if only we could cut down this man.

On the fourth day, the generals roused the troops from their sleep as dawn broke, and we formed up on a wooded hill – any advantage from the terrain would have to make up for our lack of numbers.

A suffocating fog had broken out in the valleys and as we stood in silence visibility could not have been more than a few hundred paces. The fog would hide us from the enemy but equally hinder the effectiveness our bowmen. Prince Albert ordered the cavalry to a hill on the right, hidden from the enemy, and barricades to be put up in front of our archers. Any enemy infantry targeting them would be confronted with the pointy end of our spears.

As the Raiders approached, the silence was broken by the sound of bowstrings, and that of stricken enemy men. The Barbarians charged in one mass of men and metal, crashing with a sickening thud into a waiting spear wall. Meanwhile our cavalry emerged from the woods, thundering into the enemy’s retinue. The attack had caught the dog by surprise, and our horsemen were upon him before his guards could close around him..

We had lost several of our best horsemen in this attack, but I suspect the death of the barbarians chief had spared the lives of many more of our men as our enemy fled. The road to Stirling was now clear, and generations of harassment from the Raiders would soon be at an end.

[Albertae]

Avendor, Fortress of Redfort Keep
City Gates

The capital is a magnificent beauty and King Huidemar already knows it will be a pleasant time. He also knows he will be conversing with a civilized king with great taste just by the look of the city. The guards greet me and I warmly greet them back,"I am King Huidemar of the Kingdom of Prador. It is nice to see such a civilized and well-disciplined guard as yourself!"

[Alotopia]

Rathis Castle
Ect'asearcsi Aborak Rathis
Great Hall

Emperor Rathis sat in his throne at the front of the hall, his gold and sapphire crown glistening from the multitude of braziers that illuminated the room. There were many in the hall, Lords, knights, and squires from across the En'rot to take part in the party. But, if you looked closely, none of the Royal family was present, only the Emperor and his Dark Ones... The music was festive as the High King and his party entered and were seated at the center table. As they sat, the Emperor arose from his throne and the hall quieted...

"Lords, knights, and squires from across the En'rot, we are gathered here today to welcome the High King from across the sea and his party. Let us bid them welcome!" Rathis said as he began to clap, followed by the Tut'ut in attendance, "Come, let us feast and be merry before we attend to the business which will follow!" The Emperor sat back down and motioned for the food to begin.

As the night continued, more and more Tut'ut soldiers slowly filter in, obviously coming for the bountiful feast. The festive music continues, however, the Emperor slowly stands and exits the Hall. The High King noticed this, but assumes he must be going to relieve himself as he had drank a few too many. As the previous song finishes, a new one begins... The daughter of the High King looks at the Tut'ut Lord sitting next to her and notices he is still wearing his chain mail under his clothing. Before she can say anything to her father, the laughter coming from the Tut'ut Lords had stopped and they quickly sprung into action. The Lord sitting next to her quickly pulled a knife out of his pocket and cleanly slit her throat, causing her to slump forward into the table.

As that occurred, the High King tried to stand but was stabbed in the back multiple times by the Lord who had been sitting behind him. He fell to the ground, watching the last of his guards and party being cut down by the Tut'ut... His eyes slowly closed for the last time... The Emperor looked on from the balcony above, So the En'rot remains cursed... Another King falls to the fog.

Elsewhere...

In Kingsport, the city guard had been told when the betrayal was set to occur, so they were waiting when the time came. As ordered, the guard rushed the Hig King's royal fleet at anchor, putting the sailors to the sword and their ships to the torch. The harbor was suddenly alight with ships burning left and right...

[The Forsworn Knights]

Avendor, Fortress of Redfort Keep
City Gates

The capital is a magnificent beauty and King Huidemar already knows it will be a pleasant time. He also knows he will be conversing with a civilized king with great taste just by the look of the city. The guards greet me and I warmly greet them back,"I am King Huidemar of the Kingdom of Prador. It is nice to see such a civilized and well-disciplined guard as yourself!"

City of Avendor, City Gates.
The men shouldered their Haliberds, bowing solemly to the visiting monarch. The one who had spoken previously stepped forward slightly.
"On behalf of my sovereign lord Archduke Richard Marthart, the Head of House Marthart, Champion of Nombathia, and independent ruler of our humble realm. I am proud to welcome you to the City of Avendor, your lordship." The Soldier said with enthusiasm, before continuing. "Shall I fetch Sir Godrick of Marthart and have the young lord come greet you properly, your lordship?"
As the first guard did this, the second man looked at Huidemar's men, watching the men cautiously in a stark contrast to his comrade's gregarious welcome.
The Haliberders wore Heraldic House Marthart Surcoats over Mail, with Leather Boots and skullcaps.

---

Advendor, Third-person view/basic description of the city.
Avendor is a fairly large city surrounded by a fifteen foot tall stone wall, with soldiers standing watch on wooden towers placed on the wall every twenty feet, with an open oak gate flanked by two men with haliberds. The cobbled streets wind through several taverns towards the gate, before leading past an open market.
After passing the market, one would encounter rows of small wooden townhouses, populated by those well off enough to afford a home within the walls, but too poor to buy a separate household. One street of townhouses was blocked off by a hastily-erected palisade. Several guards with spears were poking the polearms through the palisade, seemingly pushing back a crowd that stood on the other side of the wooden wall.
Just a few doors down from this walled-off sector of Avendor stood a sturdy iron portcullis flanked on either side by a man with a haliberd, guarding the entrance to Redfort Keep.

[Naval Monte]

Carmina Arsenal
Freyja, "The Ravencloak"

The building complex known to many as the Arsenal was one of the best places in Carim for both ship building and for armory. The drydock employ 16, 000 men and women to mass produce their ships for navy. Each parts of the ship were produced in rows by different works to create an efficient and fast construction of their long boats. The news of the raiding season hit the Arsenal first so the workers can begin their work on the long boats.

At the gates of the Arsenal a piece of paper hung showing a drawing of a long boat with twin ravens flying above it with runic writings below the drawings.

The Matriarch has declared open raiding season, sign up to join raider parties at your local tavern, bath house, gymnasia or military plaza. The Ravencloak has spoken that the island of the north and the lands of the north east bears untold wonders for us to discover and wealth for our taking.

These papers have traveled far throughout the land of Carim and the messengers and criers have traveled far and wide. Some can be found in the more rural parts of Carim where even the nomadic tribes and wandering guilds of adventurers and companies of mercenaries have heard the news and agreed to travel back to the city to join the raiding season. From one of the drydocks overseeing the construction of the lead long boat was the ravencloak herself standing side by side with between the owner of the Arsenal and Ahroun Asger, the wind blowing against them and making their hairs and the cloaks of both the Matriarch and Ahroun blow with the breeze.

"These new method of ship building are working wondrously. In a day we will have a fleet ready for the season." the owner thanked the Matriarch. The methods being used were inspired by different ship building techniques that they learned from different lands that their sailors venture into and many of while each method was used it didn't stop the Carimite from making their own style of ship building.

"So you are going to lead the first journey to the raiding season, a bold move if I say so." Asger told the red headed woman. "I wish to see the first steps of Carim expanding her borders and more importantly having me go out there will inspire more of our people to join." she got the report from the Ragabashs, they are racing against time to claim as much new lands before it is too late for them.

"I, our neighbors have begun their raiding before us. But at least now we have a well constructed plan for our expansion thanks to them." The two agreed and watch as the workers began to paint the long boat.

---

The Northern West Hinterlands of Carim
Three Days Later

In accordance with the Matriarch's proclamation to settle the northern west coasts further up Carim and force those who resist to kneel, around 4,000 settlers from cities and villages throughout the nation and 2,000 trained assassin warriors and 1,000 archer set sail on a fleet of wide and deep hulled longboats, built for cargo and transports to travel along the coasts to the lands next to Carim's borders in order to expand the coastline and fertile ground, as well as bring new space for Carimites to live in. Patrolling the waters were much sleeker and slim ones made for combat and they patrol the waters encase of foreign raiding parties dare try to take lands that rightfully belong to the people of Carim.

As the new buildings are being made and roads paved the ravencloak ruler looked beyond the seas. While she couldn't see in her mind she was imagining her next target for the raiding season, the island that many have come to call Srose. Freyja heard the galloping of horses and turn to see Agser coming by to her location on his black and white face steed. "Agser. I trust the natives didn't give you and your warriors too much trouble?" she said with a smirk. The man let out a boisterous laughter. "Those idiots fought like drunken boys. My warriors didn't even need to use that much stealth to beat them. Even the rookies manage to beat their best warriors. Either they were truly the weakest tribe to live on these lands or our forces were too powerful."

Asger began to tell the Matriarch hilarious tales from the farce that could be call a battle where half way through the fight most of the warriors let the native fighters live due to pity but still didn't spare them from making them and their families into Thralls. "Enjoy your humorous victory Asger, I have a feeling that the gods want us to take this land quickly so we can focus our efforts farther from here." Asger knew what she meant and he too couldn't wait for when they can finally set sail to claim Srose as their own.

[Albertae]

King Huidemar responds,"If Sir Godrick can come meet me formerly that'd be great otherwise. I'll bring my retinue and entourage in with me and wait for me." King Huidemar notices the soldiers nervousness towards my soldiers."I see your worried about my men. They will be of no threat, I only bought them as protection along the road."

[Kuhlfros]

Aegeti Castle, Fylkir Avendlr "Greycloak"
Another day of the management of the kingdom, dealing with the issues of the realm when a messenger arrived from the northern lands

To:King Huidemar of Prador/Fylkir Avenldr Greycloak of Stórrmmark
Good tidings fellow monarchs, I am King Gustav Svalbard of Sverige. After mush debate I have found it in my best interest to make contact with you. I will not ask much of you for I do not mean to offend or appear overbearing. I believe it would be best to start a healthy relationship between our people through a simple trade pact. My land is rich in ores, fish, coal, and amber. I would also like to mention our abundance of apple farming to produce hard cider, for I believe any man no matter their homeland can appreciate the taste of quality beer. I sincerely do hope you come to a conclusion which will benefit both of our people most of all.

Sincerely, King Gustav Svalbard "The Great"

"So they seek cooperation do they?" Avendlr spoke softly and motioned for a courtier to write a warm reply and agree to such ideal, and request a meeting of the two leaders in the soon future.

Well Met, King Gustav of Sverige, we agree to your terms of trade and will in return the skillful creations of our craftsmen and our wealth in natural resources will begin arriving within your lands. However there is another thing which I intend to ask.
The further cooperation between us requires a formal greeting face to face, it is custom to not become the friends of those you haven't shared ale with. If you are indeed interested, a small feast can be put together for the two of us in a place inbetween our two lands where we can discuss in detail of our cooperation in the future.
Far Vel, Fylkir Avednlr "Greycloak" of Stórrmmark

Aegeti Throne Room Dias

---

Nyrmund, 6 Days after landing
Hellkir the Calm

Nyrmund, one of the many settlements spreading in the new colonies

It was amazing how much 4,000 Storrmmen could get do within a week, all around the hinterlands more settlers had begun setting out inland just as Hellkir's band sailed south and spread out to establish their own settlements and frontiers. Recently the first hunting bands and fishing ships brought in their first haul of food without relying on supplies from home. It was expected in the next few days for the first sheep to arrive and shepherds could begin forging flocks

The clearing of land and wooden buildings that establish Nyrmund was as usual bustling as buildings were still being built and fields were being plowed, supplies were unloaded and more.

Striped Land is current lands being expanded into

Rigeak "the Blood-burner" Raider Band
At Sea

The longboat rocked as the Storrmmen battled against the waves, it was an unfortanate hazard Rigeak had run into. Rigeak was one of the wealthier kappis, with two longships to his name, making his band of 80 raiders on their sleek, quick, and powerful longships all the more dangerous.

Raiders, or Vikingr, gripped to the oars of the longboats with thier lives on both the ships as Rigeak and his second in command, his brother Jonfmare stood at the stern of the ships, steering the vessel with the wind while rain battered the warriors.

Days into the sea and this was their first real storm they encountered. The young and brave Vikingr recruits were losing their courage and thier knuckles turned white from gripping to thier oars, meanwhile the veteran raiders and grown men kept thier oars in their iron grip and rowed to the beat, locking the sea in their determined, steely gaze as they made thier way for their nearby target.........the northern islands.

[Naval Monte]

Boldre Caste, Matriarch Freyja The "Ravencloak"

The almost finished gothic castle of Boldre was almost complete. Agser and his warriors all left to claim the lands of Srose for Carim as she worked on management on both her land from afar and the new colony. Freyja was sat in front of a table and held a quill with fresh ink on one hand as she plan what to write down. She was aware of her neighboring states and needed to maintain good relationships with them so most of the raiding season isn't wasted on fighting against them for land and materials.

Freyja began to write down her message.

To:King Huidemar of Prador/Fylkir Avenldr Greycloak of Stórrmmark
Good evening my fellow monarchs, I am Matriarch Freyja of Carim. I write you both as both a fellow monarch and as kinsmen for we both share the cold and harsh lands that we all call home and that has made our people resourceful and strong. For many years our cultural similarity has kept us from raiding or fighting against each other for doing so would feel like turning our blades against our own siblings. I wish to keep our warm relationship stable and to even improve by first making a trade pact between our three kingdoms, hopefully a future alliance between us can emerge in the future. I sincerely hope that you come to a conclusion which will benefits our people most of all and keep the peace and prosperity between our people strong.

Sincerely, Matriarch Freyja The "Ravencloak"

Freyja put the now finished letters into an envelope and called in a messenger into her private chamber. Once the young boy enter she gave him the letter and instructed him where to send them. The boy soon left the room to leave the woman alone, planing on how this future meeting will go.

---

Nvyrdir, 7 days after landing

The village of Nvyrdir was one of the many settlements made thanks to the industrious work and discipline of the Carimites who came to the lands. In under a week they were able to turn a no man's land into a thriving settlements with many villages now made with cities almost complete. The first load of farm animals and seeds have arrived to assist the new farmers and scouts and hunting parties still search throughout the lands for new animals for them to hunt and raise.

Their fishing business is doing well on it's own and soon the settlements will be self sufficient and would no longer require help from the motherland. The natives who fought against them have either been made into thralls or were given honorary citizenship and made Karls for assisting in the development of the settlements. The final touch for many of these settlements is the founding of a scared groove to be used in their rituals to the gods and spirits of the land.

---

Agser's "Blood spirits of the wolf" Raider band.
Coast of Srose.

The longboat of the Carimites have finally brave through the massive glaciers that surround the island and now all of them can see it in there sights. For years the island that was call to them as Srose has been taunting them for untold generations, each attempts at colonizing it ending in failure. But now Agser was finally within his grasp to put an end to these strings of failures and become the first to conquer Srose for the honor and glory of Carim.

The more combat heavy long ship that store in a crew of 30 strong men and 30 strong women were all ready to face whatever dangers lurked in the islands. The raiders gripped their oars of the longboats and kept pushing the ship forward on to land now that the glaciers were no longer a threat to worry about. Asger stood at the stern, steering the vessel with the cold winds that made all on the ship see their breaths, many were glad to have been prepared for the frigid climate of the island.

Most of the warriors were veterans and have trained themselves to work and ignore the cold, they all kept on to their work as they moved ever closer to the island. A small fleet tailed behind them. Agser at first was against the idea of having a fleet since he didn't want too many long boats to be lost at sea but he decided to make a small seven boat fleet so should they encounter any hostile natives they would have more numbers to fight them off. By the will of the gods none of them have sunk.

[Alotopia]

Rathis Castle
Ect'asearcsi Aborak Rathis
Council Chambers

"Your Grace, why did you have these barbarians when they were our guests? This is extremely dishonorable and will be looked upon poorly by the mainland..." asked Lord Jarquen, the Master of War.

"Why is it more honorable to kill ten thousand on the battlefield than thirty at dinner? We have put an end to a monarchy and their nation shall turn into squabbling Lords attempting to take the throne for themselves. We have down the world a service..." the Emperor said, silencing Jarquen in a swift movement, "Gentlemen, it has come to my attention that the mainland clans are attempting to expand their borders by annexing and conquering the land surrounding their lands. For far too long we have sat idlely by, allowing the fog and rumors surrounding our island to protect us. It is high time we unite under one banner and seize what the Six have created. The first to fall shall be the man-beasts of the "L'Empire du Soleil Levant". We shall fund and arm the rebels inside their nation in order to destabilize it. And when their nation is in revolt, we will sweep through their land and slaughter all who oppose us."

[The Forsworn Knights]

King Huidemar responds,"If Sir Godrick can come meet me formerly that'd be great otherwise. I'll bring my retinue and entourage in with me and wait for me." King Huidemar notices the soldiers nervousness towards my soldiers."I see your worried about my men. They will be of no threat, I only bought them as protection along the road."

"As you wish, My Lord." The first guardsmen bowed once more, before briefly running through the open gate as his comrade continued to watch the visitors warily. After a few moments, the first Haliberder walked back out accompanied by Sir Godrick. Godrick wore his full suit of armor and wore the Marthart family Zweihänder in a scabbard loosely slung over his shoulder. Godrick looked over the visitors, his lips curling into a slight smile.
"I proudly welcome you to Avendor, and to Nombathia, King Huidemar. I am Sir Godrick, the Heir to the Duchy of Nombathia. I regret that my father is not able to welcome you personally. May I offer you some bread, and welcome you to our great hall?" Godrick said as he removed his Barbuta and pulled off his Coif, revealing his clean-shaven face and long locks of red hair.

[Albertae]

King Huidemar responds,"If Sir Godrick can come meet me formerly that'd be great otherwise. I'll bring my retinue and entourage in with me and wait for me." King Huidemar notices the soldiers nervousness towards my soldiers."I see your worried about my men. They will be of no threat, I only bought them as protection along the road."

"As you wish, My Lord." The first guardsmen bowed once more, before briefly running through the open gate as his comrade continued to watch the visitors warily. After a few moments, the first Haliberder walked back out accompanied by Sir Godrick. Godrick wore his full suit of armor and wore the Marthart family Zweihänder in a scabbard loosely slung over his shoulder. Godrick looked over the visitors, his lips curling into a slight smile.
"I proudly welcome you to Avendor, and to Nombathia, King Huidemar. I am Sir Godrick, the Heir to the Duchy of Nombathia. I regret that my father is not able to welcome you personally. May I offer you some bread, and welcome you to our great hall?" Godrick said as he removed his Barbuta and pulled off his Coif, revealing his clean-shaven face and long locks of red hair.

King Huidemar removes himself from his horse to be eye level with the Ser as it is respectful to do so no matter of rank."It would be most gracious and hospitable of you, if you could provide my retinue and entourage food, water, and shelter. I on the other hand will sleep and eat what you will provide me good Ser. I've come to create a trade pact, perhaps even a defensive alliance with your people and Prador. I, myself am King Huidemar of the Kingdom of Prador. If you'd like to proceed with this is the great hall?" I grab the reign of my horse and am prepared to tug my war horse along to the stables.

[The Forsworn Knights]

"As you wish, My Lord." The first guardsmen bowed once more, before briefly running through the open gate as his comrade continued to watch the visitors warily. After a few moments, the first Haliberder walked back out accompanied by Sir Godrick. Godrick wore his full suit of armor and wore the Marthart family Zweihänder in a scabbard loosely slung over his shoulder. Godrick looked over the visitors, his lips curling into a slight smile.
"I proudly welcome you to Avendor, and to Nombathia, King Huidemar. I am Sir Godrick, the Heir to the Duchy of Nombathia. I regret that my father is not able to welcome you personally. May I offer you some bread, and welcome you to our great hall?" Godrick said as he removed his Barbuta and pulled off his Coif, revealing his clean-shaven face and long locks of red hair.

King Huidemar removes himself from his horse to be eye level with the Ser as it is respectful to do so no matter of rank."It would be most gracious and hospitable of you, if you could provide my retinue and entourage food, water, and shelter. I on the other hand will sleep and eat what you will provide me good Ser. I've come to create a trade pact, perhaps even a defensive alliance with your people and Prador. I, myself am King Huidemar of the Kingdom of Prador. If you'd like to proceed with this is the great hall?" I grab the reign of my horse and am prepared to tug my war horse along to the stables.

Sir Godrick nodded, smiling. "Of course, your Majesty. Its right this way. You caught me just in time, I was about to depart with some of my men to seek out some of our neighbors." Godrick turned and started walking down the street towards the castle, a large crowd of heavily armed men standing by the gates.
Several young squires stepped forward, offering to take care of the King's horses.
Nearby, there were several guards thrusting spears through gaps in a palisade at a crowd of civilians trying to get through.

[Albertae]

King Huidemar removes himself from his horse to be eye level with the Ser as it is respectful to do so no matter of rank."It would be most gracious and hospitable of you, if you could provide my retinue and entourage food, water, and shelter. I on the other hand will sleep and eat what you will provide me good Ser. I've come to create a trade pact, perhaps even a defensive alliance with your people and Prador. I, myself am King Huidemar of the Kingdom of Prador. If you'd like to proceed with this is the great hall?" I grab the reign of my horse and am prepared to tug my war horse along to the stables.

Sir Godrick nodded, smiling. "Of course, your Majesty. Its right this way. You caught me just in time, I was about to depart with some of my men to seek out some of our neighbors." Godrick turned and started walking down the street towards the castle, a large crowd of heavily armed men standing by the gates.
Several young squires stepped forward, offering to take care of the King's horses.
Nearby, there were several guards thrusting spears through gaps in a palisade at a crowd of civilians trying to get through.

We arrive at a table in the great hall and every sits down."I've built trading posts along the way here to your city. I've done this so that we will have strong trade routes if you give me a trade pact which I know you will. I also have traveled this way in search of civilized people such as yourself but, too continue forward I need a loyal ally. I propose that a royal marriage be made with my daughter and you Sir Godrick to solidify a strong alliance between our two kingdoms. I can promise you wealth and strength but, for a strong price of honorability. If at any point in the future you become dishonorable we will abandon you. Dishonorability is a sin a horrible thing only heathens commit. So, what do you say Godrick."

[Wessexx]

The High Wall


Gustav Svalbard braved the cold northern wind upon his horse, his entourage consisting of his Chancellor and personal guard's horses similarly trudged through the snow. His Spymaster had returned to Stockhorum for personal reasons, at least that is what he allowed his king to know. As they reached The High Wall, its behemoth form struck fear upon Svalbard's guard though most managed to stifle their gasps. The colossal towers and walls completely obstructed the sun, the ancient stone that made its very being blocking out the crisp rays of morning sunlight. The garrison and hired peasants were seen busy completing last-minute construction, however one could be seen running up to Svalbard's group.

"My King! Urgent news from the south!", the messenger handed a scroll to the king gasping for breath. Svalbard took the scroll and casually read its contents.

Well Met, King Gustav of Sverige, we agree to your terms of trade and will in return the skillful creations of our craftsmen and our wealth in natural resources will begin arriving within your lands. However there is another thing which I intend to ask.
The further cooperation between us requires a formal greeting face to face, it is custom to not become the friends of those you haven't shared ale with. If you are indeed interested, a small feast can be put together for the two of us in a place inbetween our two lands where we can discuss in detail of our cooperation in the future.
Far Vel, Fylkir Avednlr "Greycloak" of Stórrmmark

"Haha! Wonderful!", he ordered the messenger to take out material for writing a message in response.

To: Fylkir Avednlr "Greycloak" of Stórrmmark
I am most grateful for your approval and I am honored for your people to be the ones to break my Kingdom's tradition of isolationism. I will arrive in your presence as soon as one of your messengers tells me of the specified location for the feast. Ample amounts of my people's finest foods and drinks will be brought in what I hope will be a pleasant exchange of cultures.
Sincerely, King Gustav Svalbard "The Great"

---

Isle of Skye. Fort Timmerhjärta

After several days of building and frequent arrivals of new colonists, the construction of the new town was hectic. The watchtower and walls were finished, the magistrate's hall, barracks, and port were almost completed, and several homes were already being built. There was even talk for starting the construction of a second town on the other side of the island, although something disturbing happened the night before. Three skinned and crucified marmots and been tied to the town gate in the midst of the night. Rumors blazed through the populace, ranging from a warning from the Lord of Cinder to a act of rebellion from the natives. The representatives from the tribesmen assured them that their people had no such barbaric customs, but hushed whispers haunted them whenever they turned their backs.

Captain Wolnir knew who did it; during the night he had woken up to piss until he saw a small shadow far away. The shadow scurried to the gate holding three sagging bundles, Wolnir hid behind a bush and watched the small figure quickly wrap rope around the wet masses before hurrying back to his tent. As the shadow passed by him the moonlight revealed a crucial detail, a peculiar scar on his cheek. When some time passed Wolnir went back to sleep, with a deep fear clutching at his his heart. In the morning the settlers had raised a commotion when the gruesome sight was discovered; when Wolnir saw Mordred later in the day, the boy had a smile of up-most satisfaction upon his face. Wolnir trembled.

[The Forsworn Knights]

Sir Godrick nodded, smiling. "Of course, your Majesty. Its right this way. You caught me just in time, I was about to depart with some of my men to seek out some of our neighbors." Godrick turned and started walking down the street towards the castle, a large crowd of heavily armed men standing by the gates.
Several young squires stepped forward, offering to take care of the King's horses.
Nearby, there were several guards thrusting spears through gaps in a palisade at a crowd of civilians trying to get through.

We arrive at a table in the great hall and every sits down."I've built trading posts along the way here to your city. I've done this so that we will have strong trade routes if you give me a trade pact which I know you will. I also have traveled this way in search of civilized people such as yourself but, too continue forward I need a loyal ally. I propose that a royal marriage be made with my daughter and you Sir Godrick to solidify a strong alliance between our two kingdoms. I can promise you wealth and strength but, for a strong price of honorability. If at any point in the future you become dishonorable we will abandon you. Dishonorability is a sin a horrible thing only heathens commit. So, what do you say Godrick."

Sir Godrick leaned back on his Father's small throne in the discrete council chambers behind the Great Hall, pondering King Huidemar's offer.
"Are you sure this is what you desire, King Huidemar? I desire to be sure that you understand the implications of a royal wedding, and that this could potentially have unfortunate effects with my younger brother's constant scheming. Do you understand that while I am most likely going to live a long life, my brother will be trying to overthrow me every few years."

[Albertae]

We arrive at a table in the great hall and every sits down."I've built trading posts along the way here to your city. I've done this so that we will have strong trade routes if you give me a trade pact which I know you will. I also have traveled this way in search of civilized people such as yourself but, too continue forward I need a loyal ally. I propose that a royal marriage be made with my daughter and you Sir Godrick to solidify a strong alliance between our two kingdoms. I can promise you wealth and strength but, for a strong price of honorability. If at any point in the future you become dishonorable we will abandon you. Dishonorability is a sin a horrible thing only heathens commit. So, what do you say Godrick."

Sir Godrick leaned back on his Father's small throne in the discrete council chambers behind the Great Hall, pondering King Huidemar's offer.
"Are you sure this is what you desire, King Huidemar? I desire to be sure that you understand the implications of a royal wedding, and that this could potentially have unfortunate effects with my younger brother's constant scheming. Do you understand that while I am most likely going to live a long life, my brother will be trying to overthrow me every few years."

King Huidemar straightens himself and puts on a very serious face."Godrick, do you understand the power I possess? The 17th king of Prador destroyed 8 kingdoms surrounding Prador in a rage. He destroyed them all sending them back to the stone ages. It severely reduced his kingdom but, the king's after him have spent their lifetimes rebuilding. And I've gotten the kingdom to the point where I can obliterate a kingdom with one command. I will not hesitate to put down your devious and treacherous brother who will stop at nothing to kill you or depose you or usurp the ducal throne from you if you are wed into my bloodline. You will be family to me and I take family personally as the 17th King did. I can destroy your brother and his supporters probally a 1000 times over. And I will stop at nothing to protect my too be family, you."King Huidemar sits back in his seat and calms his expression leaving the young adult amazed at the power that Huidemar wields.

[Apostolic Hungary]

Akrópoli, Patrída

After many weeks of sailing forth from and to the mainland, the embassy ship arrived in the great harbor of Akrópoli. Many of the surrounding warships dwarfed the smaller ship as its sailors looked up in awe of the fleet's might. Then as it approached the great dock, the Triach Oratio standing near the helm ordered trumpets to be blown, and the banners run up, while heralds shouted from the bows in both the language of the Maro and the language of Patrída,

"By the witness of Dies Maris the great Lord of the Sea, Coronatur Tomis Regis accepts all the proposals of the King of the Western Islands, and now makes league with him, and sends his son to feast among his allies."

Crowds were already forming at the sound of trumpets and now listened to the speech of the richly-dressed foreigners. Triach Tirios the High King's son turned to Oratio with a cautious face, and asked him, "What say you that we do now?" "Now we wait for a herald of their King," replied the older Triarch, "Then we feast with them a week, and then sail West to seek further alliances with other peoples, as are spoken of in prophecy."

Extremja in the far North of Maro

Tracian Verjo rode his white dappled horse furiously down the gleaming armored ranks of his soldiers. Three thousand had been set under his command, each with sharpened sword and spear, a bold legion ready to march to the end of the earth if need pressed. Their orders had come, they were to finally pacify the wild lands Northward, and seek the fabled merchant city on the northeastern shores. Though young, in his twenties, Verjo had been given command to replace his aging father Vergjio, and he vowed that he would write his worthiness with steel amidst the Barbarian tribesmen to the north, who had caused suffering to the Maro in decades past. This day marks the beginning of victory, he though to himself, as he took his place at the head of the first column of soldiers next to the standard-bearer.

[The Forsworn Knights]

Sir Godrick leaned back on his Father's small throne in the discrete council chambers behind the Great Hall, pondering King Huidemar's offer.
"Are you sure this is what you desire, King Huidemar? I desire to be sure that you understand the implications of a royal wedding, and that this could potentially have unfortunate effects with my younger brother's constant scheming. Do you understand that while I am most likely going to live a long life, my brother will be trying to overthrow me every few years."

King Huidemar straightens himself and puts on a very serious face."Godrick, do you understand the power I possess? The 17th king of Prador destroyed 8 kingdoms surrounding Prador in a rage. He destroyed them all sending them back to the stone ages. It severely reduced his kingdom but, the king's after him have spent their lifetimes rebuilding. And I've gotten the kingdom to the point where I can obliterate a kingdom with one command. I will not hesitate to put down your devious and treacherous brother who will stop at nothing to kill you or depose you or usurp the ducal throne from you if you are wed into my bloodline. You will be family to me and I take family personally as the 17th King did. I can destroy your brother and his supporters probally a 1000 times over. And I will stop at nothing to protect my too be family, you."King Huidemar sits back in his seat and calms his expression leaving the young adult amazed at the power that Huidemar wields.

Godrick nodded, offering Huidemar his hand. "Well, your Majesty. Shall we shake on it?"

---

The Forest outside Avendor, Sir Marcus of Marthart, the second son of Archduke Richard Marthart's Point of View
I smirked as my men cleaned their swords. Around us lay three corpses, men sent by my father to try to monitor my movements. It had only taken me a few minutes to catch on to the same group of woodsmen that always seemed to be hauling logs by whatever path I took. Funny how they also seemed to be dragging the exact same logs.
As my twelve men finished cleaning their swords they stood. The men all wore Chainmail with leather tabards and metal skullcaps, and bore Hand-and-a-half swords with heater shields. I stood up from the log I had been sitting on, gesturing for them to stand as well.
"Saddle up men, I hear there is an attractive and single young queen just a week or so of riding to the west. If we can pick up a few friends along the way, that should only take a couple months total, and we will most likely bring back a small army to wipe that stupid look on Godrick's face."

[Cresadine]

CHAPTER I

A Dark Hart is Spotted

"Take that hart;
To your heart;
With this vision;
All shall be content."

Your Cast of Characters

Esqitihin lĭh Laĵy-yyal-y, Centenot, Regent of the Qane (Bank)
Qopen lĭh Qopen-y, Captain of the Guardsmen of the City
Je'haqhen lĭh Nesthario-y, Guardsmen of the City
Qopenolyn lĭh Sĭhityn-y, Council Woman
Pelasqin lĭh Hethadrima-y, Merchant
Heqselĭpa lĭh Nyrymyrya-y, Oracle

---

Qo'yyen

Esqitihin strolled leisurely through the gardens of the Great Palace of Qo'yyen. The background was filled with an ensemble of buzzing bees, chirping swallows and bubbling fountains. His long flowing golden robes, decorated with black threads depicting the various Daemon of the Black Temple indicated his status as the Centenot. On his fourth finger he had the seal ring, emblazoned with the crest of the Qane showed his status as a Regent of the Qane, arguably more powerful than the Centenot. So like the like son of two royal dynasties, he was double trouble, except unlike most royal dynasties, he had quite a lot of money.

The gardens of the Great Palace was set on a grid of about twenty marble islands - each one decorated with a different arrangement of beautifully kept plants. The floor of the islands were decorated with elaborate carvings depicting religious, and civic history. The center island has a shrine to the Ten Heroes where the higher-ranking Qo'yyenese often came to lay offerings. The islands were separated with canals of water approximately four feet deep and these canals were crossed over by arching bridges, with ornamented posts in the form of the heads of a stag. The canals contained a whole matter of fish - from beautiful blue and white carp, to silent pale eels, and a virtual rainbow of fish.

In the lily pads and marsh grasses ducks, frogs, and dragon flies frolicked. Marsh flowers, their bulbs ranging from an elegant pink to passionate red-purple freckled the endless sea of green and blue. In some canals, standing on marble platforms and never more than three feet high, there were old statues of great leaders from Qo'yyens past. The Centenot hoped he would be one of the leaders honoured with a statue.

The Centenot had cropped black hair, like most Qo'yyenine men (and women) did. His was speckled with streaks of white, a strange genetic anomaly common to the Qo'yyenese. His features were very strong, with heavy, tired eyes, a broad chin which was decorated with a little grey stubble. His nose was crooked, from an accident in the harbour when he was smacked with an oar by a clumsy galley slave, who had promptly been sold off to some foreign power, or had been left as a sacrifice to keep the Creator at bay, Esqithin didn't quite remember.

With the Centenot-Regent strolled two guardsmen, after all, a man like Esqitihin made quite a few enemies, naturally. The more senior Guardsmen was Qopen, the Captain of the Guard. He was another powerful soul. He had been born a peasant in the dark depths of the Black Forest, but due to the fluid and flighty nature of the Qo'yyenese caste system he had been able to move up, quite a bit in the world. He now commanded the keepers of order in the City of Canals (a nickname for Qo'yyen.)

Qopen was much taller than Esqithin - by a couple inches. He was an oddity among the Qo'yyenese who regularly never heights taller than 5'11. Most were much shorter than that. While Qopen was a megalitic 6' much awed by the Qo'yyenese. He was slender, but very well muscled after years of physical training. All the Guardsmen dressed in a light leather and metal armour, with a stylized helmet atop their heads.

With them was also the most eminent Council Woman of the Council of One-Hundred, Qopenolyn. Though related by blood Esqithin despised the woman. She was intelligent, fierce and his biggest rival. She was a Zĭany, like Esqithin, but of opposing branches of the same family - and their rivalry blocked any cooperation in the Council between the two. Her hair was cropped short, but not as short as Qopen, as was common for most women. They let their hair grow a bit longer, so it would curl. Her hair was bound up in tiny braids that all swirled together at the top of her head.

Je'haqhen was the last member of the party strolling in the gardens that day, a junior Guardsmen, he was training on how to protect regal persons - a very important task indeed. He was a gorgeous youth, with a handsome face and sparkling eyes.

Esqithin and Qopenolyn walked ahead strolling lightly. Like any inhabitant of Qo'yyen with any class they talked in a very complex manner. The architecture of their speech like the wall of a cathedral, a work of art. It dripped with simile, metaphor and alliteration. They did not look at one another while the talked, for they disliked each-other so and would rather regard the beauty of the roses which were just in bloom. As is the custom in Qo'yyen, when they talked about themselves (I) they referred to themselves in the second person combined with their name or in more complex third person arrangements, it depends on the company.

"Have you yet figured out why a man (remember Esqithin is talking about himself, I know it can be quite confusing) has extended the white gloved hand and taken time to stroll with a woman in the garden of all desire?" he prodded.

"A woman thought that the reason these humans ("we two") stroll as these humans do is that a man, with the coldest heartstrings and most calculated mind were to kill a woman, as there is precedent for such an act, in the reign of the Centenota Joră," she replied giggling a bit.

"Now a man understands why you hate him so! You believe a man to present a face so pure, yet to be as cruel as the Creator."

"A man may present a face, but a face says stupid things," she said, quoting one of the many Qo'yyenese metaphors.

"Though a man may not like the sound a woman leaves in a man's ears, that does not mean he would draw sword against a Council Woman in this most noble house of our fair city. These two humans are of the same red wine of the body (blood), so a man would not cause the destruction of another of a man's dynasty - for that would do the dynasty dishonour."

"Then why, in the name of all Daemons does a man invite a woman to stroll in these gardens, which burst with colour, smell and pollen?"

The Centenot was about to continue when he was stopped suddenly, in the midst of a breath. The two stared ahead in wonder - their eyes transfixed upon the magnificent stag.

"Does a woman see this Dark Hart? Does a woman gaze upon a Daemon like this man does?"

"A woman does," she responded shyly. The Daemon was magnificent, with beautiful golden antlers and harsh yellow eyes. It's fur was a shimmering black, and it radiated an aura of power and mystery. The Dark Hart was one of the main Daemons of their faith. This was an omen, as the focal Daemons do not just show up for any reason - they always have a meaning. As soon as it arrived, it leaped off and dove into a canal, evaporating just before it touched the water with a golden hoof.

The Black Temple

"Ah yes, Heqselĭpamiyyo (I) does see the omen in this sign a man says a man has seen. A Dark Hart, the beautiful and radiant creature symbolizes change for a man, soon a man will begin to unravel the fabric which covers his fate, and a man shall see soon. There will be change everywhere, all over the world - and Qo'yyen will be at the front of change."

The old crone, by the name of Heqselĭpa consulted with Esqithin on the meaning of the portent. She was an oracle, a diviner, an interpreter of the omens. She was the oldest women in Qo'yyen, having seen her fair share of Centenots and Centenotas. Her face has become gnarled and red with age, much like the oldest limb of the oldest tree. Her hair had lost it's darkness and now was completely stark white. Her fingers where crippled by arthritis and blindness had taken one eye and was taking another.

But her third eye could never be blinded, it would not shut until the day she was laid to rest beneath a sapling and ascended into her next existence.

Qo'yyen

The Council of One-Hundred convened regularly (everyday) in the Council Palace in Qo'yyen. They were there to discuss foreign policy, specifically how to pry out the most trade from the nations around them. The Chamber they sat in was elaborate, with golden facades and murals depicting great scenes in the history of Qo'yyen. Huge columns supported arches with three guardsmen blocking the way, so air could get in but the people could not.

The ceiling was vaulted and went up. It had beautiful stained glass map of Qo'yyen depicting every street as it had been when this palace was built, over four hundred years ago.

All the Councillors were dressed in their finery, this month the fashion was crimson and muted colours. A virtual sea of crimson was awash in the chamber. Each one had a special golden chair, decorated with luscious pillows stuffed with goose down and ornamented with gold. There were quite a few different types of people in the Chamber, quite a few of them were fat - and quite a few of them were mousy wisps of human beings.

They were chatting among themselves, the topic at hand had been very controversial, not the fact that they wanted to expand their influence, but where to expand their influence - every Merchant family had their own area of influence where they held property. They chatter began to rise to shouting as members of the various factions jostled for volume until it came down to two large-lunged Councillors.

The Centenot made his entress, and the screaming died down to a low whisper. He called for the debate to commence, as was his duty. That day in council they agreed, in a surprising turn of events to do an across the boards expansion of trade, and select the optimal niche to mine once it was discovered. It was odd because Esqithin's party voted for his idea (naturally) and the Qopenolyn, his arch-rival had brought her party in agreement with him, many wondered what had happened during that walk in the gardens. It was also agreed to increase colonization efforts on the Shores Across Sea where they already had a permanent and bustling settlement. But they would discuss that

Azund a Few Weeks Later

The Merchant Ship commanded by Pelasqin, a trader under the orders of the Council of Qo'yyen headed for Azund with a small crew and gifts from the Centenot, hoping to find friendliness with the previously apathetic government. His ship docked at the Port in Azund, their mast flying the colours of Qo'yyen flying in the wind.

They made their way through the crowded streets, with an escort. The people here had an odd manner of dress, though the people here must think the Qo'yyenese odd too, with their flowing clothing and their odd manner of speaking. Throughout the city they saw hustle and bustle. Exotic priests preached of Gods unknown to the Merchants, peddlers peddled their wares and dirty peasant children and adults ran through the streets. The absence of slaves struck the Merchants as odd, but theses were odd lands. They were brought to the palace, which was indeed a magnificent affair and awaited for the King to summon them into his presence.

[Naval Monte]

Srose,
five days after landing.



For five days the raiding band of Asger has been fighting against the natives of Srose. As predicted the islands are home to several tribes, many of whom don't take well to outsiders. This was one of the many villages sacked, no one was spared as even the women and children were too ferrous to be left alive. Asger looked at the stone monument that was the village totem with his good eye.

A light blond hair man came to him. "Virkim. Has your party found any survivors?" The man shook his head. "No, I think this time we stuck at them to quickly for them to flee." Asger smiled, the speed of their army was not slipping up. "Good. We have a few villages to attack and the city that is the capital and soon we will have Srose at last. Tell the motherland that we need more warriors now." Virkim nodded and soon left to find a messenger to deliver the message.

Asger turn his sight back to the totem, it looked so much like the ones from back home but different. He wonder if maybe they can use the faith of the natives to pacify some of them to join them? The old warrior thought about this new plan as he moved away from the totem as he walked to the long houses that was once home to the village chief, the first person they executed once they won the battle. Once inside he assisted his men and women on looting the house of it's treasures.

---

At Sea
Three days after first colonization



The small fleet from this party were a mix of true war long boats and those made for colonization. This fleet was traveling further out from Carim either to find new raiding targets or to find coastal towns to trade with, most in this fleet were hoping for the latter right now. The fleet as already sail pass the waters of Prador and are now in Stormmakers waters. They are aware of two places for them to go to but for now most haven't decided on which one to pick.