A Different World: The Noble Cities [IC|Closed]

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Sun May 02, 2021 1:59 pm

Deepkin

Eastern Marches, Stalheim
Second of First Seed, Year Twohundred Seventyeight of the Reckoning

Kurwin knelt down, and pulled the pair of strong shears from his belt. With his right hand he pulled up the belt of tattered leather armor, and then with his left he began cutting into the still-warm flesh. It parted before iron shears only reluctantly, the languid coursing of not yet cold blood swiftly filling the cavity he carved into the corpse. The process would have been swifter if he had returned to camp to sharpen the implements, but the dead didn't care if there was a bit of a sawing motion, or if the wounds were a bit jagged. After a half dozen firm strokes the piece of flesh came away, and the heavy barbed arrow with it.

Really he didn't know why the Guard insisted on these thick bladed arrows to use with the singing bows. The impact of a normal punch-tip into a foe with even diffident armor usually left them dead before they could flee, based on his decade of experience, and the barbs were meant to mangle. You didn't need to maim dead men. But they kept right on using them. Probably bureaucratic inertia. It certainly made cleaning up after these barbarians messy.

You had to cut them out, you see. That was why he was here. You get the shit end of the stick when people start camping, and you go out with the blood-shears. Gruesome work. Most new men got used to it though. Iron wasn't so cheap that you could afford to just leave it rusting in corpses of some goat-fucking pelt-wearing bearded numbskull who thought showing up and waving a pointy stick at peasants was a wise plan for personal profit and enlightenment. And since the arrows were barbed, well, sometimes you just had to cut out chunks of the men and burn the flesh off. A hell of a lot easier than individually slicing away the bits of gristle, organ, flesh, and fat which came if you yanked.

He stood, moving on to the next arrow studded body. Some of the raiders had taken a few to down, and so you had to work harder, or taken a shot to the skull or the chest, and you had to use a little hammer to break the bone so the arrow came away from where it was firmly lodged. If only these wild men would take a suffering hint and turn to more productive professions, like throwing themselves off of cliffs when the Guard cornered them. Then he wouldn't have to clean up so much.

by **Lazarian** » Mon May 03, 2021 1:06 pm

Corvus, Year 78 of Destiny's Awakening

Three hundred years ago, when Corvus the First Patriarch left with his family, the tribe from which he fled was said to have collapsed, dissolving into petty infighting and cruel barbarism.

But some, they whispered, had survived. The Forgotten Ancestors - distant cousins, roaming the wastes to the North, beyond the mountains, the deserts, even past Sorrowfree herself.

When the first survivors from Corvin returned, they wept, speaking of men that looked vaguely like them, sharing both red hair and hazel eyes. These wild men even spoke a vaguely comprehensible dialect, a sign that they could have perhaps been related. And thus, they invited these savages in with open arms, welcoming them to the newly founded settlement. But this, alas, was a fatal mistake - the barbarous men turned upon them with cruel armaments, shaking off powerful blows with skin of stone and inhuman strength. They butchered, slaughtered, and chained the Corvidians, leading them off into the wastes after tearing the city to its bones. The city of Corvin was no more. Dust, rubble, and ashes. As the Corvidians had done to Zhongdu, their ancient cousins had done to Corvin.

The Forsaken, the Spirit-Guides called them. Men who had not been chosen by the Four to become enlightened - servants of the Beast, children of the foul barbarians that lurked in the shadows and corners of the world. At first, there was sadness, great sorrow about the men who could have been their blood-kin turning on them.

But soon, it turned to fury. These men were kin-slayers, traitors, betrayers. They had raised weapons against the chosen people of the Four, in service of dark gods and Black Kings. They were no better than the Hesukar. And they would be destroyed. Many rich men poured vast sums of wealth into forging new workshops, new forges, acquiring more arms, and training soldiers. Hundreds of men enlisted into the Bloodred Pack, clamoring and training through the summers.

The Corvidians would have their revenge, in time.

Other:
- Contact with Machaka and Eleskar acquired through Riverlanders.
- Expedition is completed.

by **The GAmeTopians** » Tue May 04, 2021 12:09 pm

The Republic of the Great River

The Temple of the Outsider

Once again we return to a broad plain of strange monoliths, granite dark as night extending sharp claws towards the dim sun above. Hooded figures weave between them, a twisting line from the temple’s distant entrance… until, at long last, the first of their number reaches the altar in the middle. He begins to etch strange runes on its surface, but not with ink or blade - no, a thin stream of ash sprinkles from his bony fingertips, gathering slowly on the altar. A low chant, in no language known by you or I, echoes through the line of penitents… and a dark, unnatural glow begins to gather in the sky above the temple.

And from the void… a voice.

“Ah… a new world calls for my power. Hm. I suppose I can spare some energy.”

Such is the way of things in the River’s Jewel. Such is the way of things in this strange world.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Tue May 04, 2021 3:49 pm

Year 278 of the Reckoning

Turn 39

Zhai Cheng: The prospectors in Zhai Cheng have found no sign of ores deep below the ground, though their efforts are limited and somewhat inconclusive.

Sorrowfree: The explorers dispatched to reconnoiter the lands near the brutal heights where the beasts and barbarians lie waiting have returned unharmed. This region is one of endless trees, part of the seemingly infinite woodlands that cluster between the mountains of the Spine of the World and the great western sea. Volcanic fissures can be found in the foothills descending from the Spine here, and orange gourds grow in the woodlands, savory, almost the flavor of fresh bean-bread. There is also a strange stone to be found here, a pale white glistening ore which has a faint melody when held near to the ear, though it seems brittle and easy to crumble in the hand, whereupon it seems to revert to so much dun sand.

Eleskar: The prospectors have returned empty-handed, though whether this is because the lands of the Eleskar are vast and they did not find the right stream or cavern, or because only stone lies underfoot, is impossible to say.

Warclyfe: The colonization of Mantui has proceeded well, though the voyage was dogged by storms. Before the monsoon season arrives a sturdy village occupies the headlands of the peninsula. Mantui's region has 4 Hills, 2 Flatlands, 8 Coast, and 6 Forest areas. The Ithoi receive the gift of wealth with gratitude, and seem surprised to see the men of Warclyfe, perhaps under-estimating their skill in sailing. They are cordial, and feast the representatives for nearly two weeks on exotic foods, before giving them a gift of a hundred enslaved men and women to return to Warclyfe with.

Machaka: The prospectors again return empty-handed. The ore rich region to the south has been successfully colonized, a small settlement erected in this valuable land. This region has 6 Hills, 4 Flatlands, and 10 Forest areas.

Kharbarinth: The explorers roaming northwest of Kar Agala have mapped out a sun-dappled peninsula of plains, bounded to both north and west and east by the cool shallow seas off the northern coast of the lands of the Deepkin. There is blood-red hematite to be found here, the servant of the Deepkin, and immense redwoods stud the hilly coastline like near the places of the Agaladrim. There are also valuable rubies in this earth.

Scholars in Forgefend have devised methods to carefully cut and shape the diamonds that are pulled from the earth, showing their facets and inner beauty which few suspected. Many might wish to purchase these pieces of frozen grandeur at great price, polished by the skilled gemcutters of the city. Geodes, too, are discovered to be of this nature in Stalheim. Sailors and scholars working together at Kar Agala have fashioned great drag-nets, which could be deployed from a humble docks, to bring in the wealth of the sea.

Corvus: The efforts of the soldiers to track the Forsaken are of dubious success. The tracks are old, and confused, and eventually lost - though it is clear that the wild men descended out of the north. That, however, perhaps could have already been guessed from that fact that, well, Corvin lay to the north. Explorers perhaps would have been more successful in this scouting intent.

There is however news of the men sent forth six years ago - they have returned, interesting news in their breasts. Far to the north and west, so far that trade would be fraught with peril overland, but wise if done by sea, they have come upon a great city of stone. The people there name themselves Deepkin, and seem to be a numerous folk, strong in arms and wise. Their cities have many odd contraptions, and there is much to learn there perhaps. They are greeted courteously, if cautiously, and learn from the hosts that the Deepkin know little of other men save barbarians who seek to seize their wealth and knowledge for their own...

Rivermouth: The prospectors working south of south return with samples of a green stone, which if smelted turns to valuable copper. This malachite seems to be buried at a great depth, only seen in rare chunks washed up from springs which feed the waters in this region. It would enrich the city to exploit, though how one might mine in such deeps is hard to say. There is also strange news - now that the Temple of the Outsider has been completed, several men have come forward, saying that they heard a black voice telling them horrible things as construction was begun. They have taught the mages of the temple a combination of techniques they term the Shadow Breath, which stills the senses of those near the wielder and might allow a man of fell intent to walk unseen even to the guarded homes of the great and powerful... -Mystic Inspiration

by **Novas Arcanum** » Tue May 04, 2021 3:55 pm

Sacred Beasts (Ancient)

War is Deception

Li would ride his his steed astonished to see a herd of the sacred beasts in the distances. What could it possibly mean?

"So what you are saying is that it is easy to conquer a nation by the sword but that is hard to rule it by the sword?" Xin asked writing down on the paper that was given to him by the Shao. Xin was from the Yue city of Anyang far to the north of Zhai Cheng. He was enamored by the splendor of Zhai Cheng the Shao lived in sturdy wooden houses, and their ruler lived in a mighty stone fortress that dominated the entire city. They wore sophisticated cotton clothing, and magnificent silk robes.

The Yue scholars wore little but furs and rags.No wonder we're so far behind if the Shao can live in a city like this it will take us ages to catch up Xin thought to himself.

The Yue were unwashed barbarians lacking in etiquette and culture. If they wanted to learn the tenets of Heaven they must learn from the wisdom of those who came before, and also some basic manners. That is what their teacher knew was true for that is how the Shao learned their wisdom.

"That is what Lao says in his teachings" Lu said displaying a patience that few could master. The iron gong went off in the distance signifying that the lesson was over. The cherry petals fell from the trees, and the bells of the Jade Tower sounded their music.

"I want you to read more of the philosophical works of Lao and other Shao philosophers it is integral to your education" Lu said. Xin would bow low, something that the Yue Scholars were getting used to. "Thank you master" With that Xin would leave along with the other Yue students. They had ALOT of reading to do.

Zhai Cheng

Population: 3955(+800 Growth)

Urban District I [Granary , Spinning House,3 huts, Bloomery, Guojizian, Monument, Nursery, Shrine (+3 Stability) ,Forge, Charcoal Pit],+I Flat Food Bonus |II Palisade | Aqueduct
Urban District II[Forbidden Palace(+2 Stability),Garrison, Smithy, Clinic, 6 Huts,3 Cottages(+3 Stability)] +I Food Bonus| Palisade
Urban District III [2 Huts,7 Spinning Houses, Jade Tower (+5 Stability) ] |Simple Stone Wall |+I Flat Food Bonus
Rural District I [5 Huts, Timber Camp,7 Gardens , Galena Scrape Mine]|Watchposts||Aqueduct +III Flat Food Bonus
Rural District II[ Galena Scrape Mine, 4 Paddocks (Unicorn)]|Watchposts,|+III Flat Food Bonus.
Rural District III [Farm,2 Paddocks (Unicorn)]|Watchposts| Aqueduct|+III Flat Food Bonus
Rural District IV [3 Quarry ]Watchposts|+III Food
Rural District V [6 Cotton Plantations] |Watchposts |+III Food
Rural District VI [1 Cotton Plantation]|Watchposts|+III Food
Population Actions:
300 Scholars [Urban District I] |Researching secret,secret
400 Scholars [Urban District I]| Teaching the Yue Scholars the teachings and wisdom of Lao.
400 Bureaucrats [Urban District I]| Enacting wise and sound government policy +IV Wisdom, +IV Wealth, +IV Stability |Plan of Multitudes [XV/XX]|
100 Peasants [Rural District I]| Working hard--->[+I Labor, +XXII Food ,+I Timber, +II Galena Ore(3 from Domestic Crops,5 from granary ,7 from Aqueduct). ]
500 Peasants [Rural District II] | Working long hours-->[ +V Labor ]
100 Peasants [Rural District VI]|Working hard [+I Cotton, +I Labor]
100 Peasants [Rural District II]|Working long hours --->[+IV Food, +II Hides, +II Galena Ore ,+I Labor]
100 Peasants [Rural District III]| Working long hours --->[+IV Hides, +VII Food ,+I Labor(1 from domestic animal source,2 from paddocks,2 from farm,2 from Aqueduct)]
100 Peasants [Rural District V] |Working hard [+VII Cotton, +I Labor]
100 Peasants [Forests (Trapped) ] Gathering Silk,+ I Labor
100 Peasants [Rural District IV] |Working hard [+I Stone, +I Labor]
55 Soldiers are guarding the peasants gathering silk
100 Artisans [Urban District] | Crafting wares and tools at the Forge ---> -I Charcoal, -I Galena Ore +III Wealth
100 Artisans [Urban District]|Crafting tools and wares at Bloomery--->-I Charcoal,-I Galena Ore, +II Wealth,-II Wealth, +I Industry
100 Artisans [Urban District]|Weaving silk clothing--->-I Silk, + II Wealth,-III Wealth, +III Industry
100 Artisans [Urban District]| Crafting tools and ware at Bloomery-->-I Charcoal,-I Galena +III Wealth
100 Artisans [Urban District]| Weaving cotton clothing ---> +XIV Wealth,-I Wealth +II Industry
100 Artisans [Urban District]|Crafting tools and wares --->-II Wealth, +I Industry
100 Explorers |tracking the barbarians
100 Soldiers guarding the Explorers
200 Soldiers patrolling in Zhai Cheng.
100 Soldiers (Mount) patrolling in Zhai Cheng
100 Soldiers are being caparisoned for war [III/III Wealth|I/I Industry]
Galley Squadron Patrolling the waters of the Sea of Zhai Cheng

Miscellaneous
100 Freemen educated has Artisans
+III Wealth from Plan of Multitudes (Wealth) [10/10]
Plan of Mines [5/5]
Plan of Fields [3/5]
+I Stability from Splendid Isolation.
-8 Stability from overcrowding.

Construction
Rural District [III/III Labor|I/I Wealth]
Watchposts[I/I Labor| I/I Wealth| I/I Industry]
Farm[IV/IV Labor|I/I Wealth]
Mounts[I/I Wealth| I/I Industry]
Mounts[I/I Wealth| I/I Industry]
Mounts[I/I Wealth| I/I Industry]
Dense Housing rises on the banks of the Yu River [Labor V/V| Wealth IV/IV | Industry II/II| 3/3 Stone| 2/2 Timber].Complete.
Simple Stone Wall [Labor 0/IV| Wealth 0/ II | Industry I/I|V/V Stone ]
Aqueducts[0/V Labor| I/III Wealth| 0/III Industry| V/V Stone]
Aqueducts[0/V Labor| I/III Wealth|0/III Industry| II/V Stone]
Docks District [Labor 0/VI |Wealth 0/V| Industry 0/IV Industry ]

Economy
+II Wealth from Palace Economy.
-I Wealth from Splendid Isolation.

Stability
92

Special Action: The Shao seek to learn more of the Yue and ask them of the city of Anyang.

by **Pragia** » Tue May 04, 2021 4:48 pm

78th Year of the Magisterium of the Eleskar, 10th Year of Tyraal

It would be at the advisory of southerners that the Grand Magister Tyraal would pen the "On the Ordering of War" which would set out the creation of a formal military of the Magisterium. Seeing as there was no god of war in their culture, the Grand Magister would invoke the Corvan spirit of Vennon in her writings. Such a move was not only to recognize the contributions of the travelling Spirit-Guides, as well as the faith of the Four as a whole, but to also placate the council under her and to avoid disruption of Eleskar culture. Truly, if an order was to be brought to such a savage thing, it must have come from a foreign place. Such a move would be taken in various ways among the magi and civilian populations, as there was some worry that this was pretense for more conflict to come. It was stated openly in the halls of the Grand Scriptorum that the Grand Magister was seeking to follow in her mother's footsteps, and this dispute was met evenly by a leader who was not interested in entertaining possibilities. The reality was that their visitors were correct in their observation of weakness, and that there were dark magics rising in the south, from both friend and foe. It would be unwise for the Eleskar to remain so woefully unprepared for conflict, even if it was not desired.

The treatise itself was not of great depth: the Eleskar lacked institutional knowledge of tactics, though notes taken from the combat against the Hesukar would be included as she called forth the Seventeen to recount their battles. Ultimately, she would set out ranks and structure similar to the orders of the Eleskar: the Almakar would be divided into units at the smallest level of 7 men, whose leaders would form a council to advise their leader. These 50 men units would be the core of formations in their organization, and their movements can be split down at lower levels. Tactically, the reliance on bows and skirmishing was paramount, as the first warriors had repulsed the savages to the East with skirmishing and exhausting. Direct combat was to only be engaged when outmaneuvered or when the enemy has been outmaneuvered. This sort of combat was designed assuming a larger enemy force which was not to be crushed, but to be driven away and controlled. This philosophy would be reinforced, as there is a strong notion that Kelskar scouts should be deployed ahead of soldiers to thuroughly document the terrain and enemy dispositions.

The forges of the Eleskar would be turned to creating simple equipment to outfit these troops in a more standard manner, for the first time home made copper weapons and armor would be outfitted. While such equipment was already outdated by their enemies and even their allies, it was better than before, and provided a certain confidence in uniformity. Ultimately, though 4 units of soliders were properly outfitted, many more from the new generation will begin to be outfitted for the coming coalition against the cursed Hesukar. This time they will provide arms that will cast down their foe and their fel magics, and it will demonstrate the prowess of the magi for the rest of the world to see.

by **The Empire of Tau** » Thu May 06, 2021 11:01 am

Republic of Machaka - Turn 40

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Thu May 06, 2021 2:50 pm

Deepkin

The Grand Occulary, The Spire of the Sky, Kharbarinth
Twelfth of Neap Tide, Year Twohundred Eighty of the Reckoning

"Well, at least now we know exactly where these Men of the Raven come from."

That was the most positive voice of the magi that could be found here, beneath the roots of the immense spires of skystone and iron which thrummed in the winds above. Faces were drawn, and the tension in the air was palpable. There was, coming from somewhere, the sour odor of a body unwashed, normally something the council wouldn't have allowed. But these were not normal times.

"We shall have to inform the Emperor."

"You think we should? He's as likely to declare war as he is to allow us to continue trade. There is much to learn, if we can just keep this from the Warden for as long..."

"No, there's no point in concealment. After all, it'll only be months before the rumors have gathered in enough force to make a formal inquiry impossible to avoid. Better to put a brave face on things, direct the conversation. House Atreus seems content with Kar Agala. Perhaps there will be little appetite for conflict."

"Fah. The Bloodsworn made a field of feathered corpses out of wild men out near Stalheim only a month ago, and the names of their captains are on everyone's lips. Men dream of glory, and lament that there are put brigands and bandits to put to the sworn, not a real fight. What do you think they'll do once they learn of these military men, champions of a great league? That's exactly the sort of challenge a thousand men in the Guard dream of facing during every sparring session."

That made the conversation die away, and faces were grim around the illuminated crystal which sat sunk into the earth here. One of the robed figures, a woman with long white hair, unnaturally gray and blue like silver, gestured with a clawed hand at the small pulsing ruby.

"It is a journey. Not a matter of a month, or a week, where hotheads can keep their spirits high. There might be glory to be won in conquest, but stamina has never been the strong suit of the men who crave blood to make their names. If we disseminate, conceal the location of these Men of the Raven, perhaps the warbands will fail to find them."

It was a bold stratagem. The Council of Magi had known about Corvus for nearly ten years now, studied them from afar, learned of their customs - as had been the vision of the Spire of the Sky, to see foreign lands, walk the winds as a spirit and a lesser god, know what others knew. Most of the men who walked the streets of the City of Bells didn't know that truth though. They might speculate that the Spire drew energies from the heavens, or enhanced the arcane focus of the enchanters in their midst, but they didn't suspect her natural function.

Not a gamble that would hold forever. But getting over the initial humble of xenophobia, over the disdain for the barbaros, that was of primary importance. Or the blood of hundreds, thousands would stain the hands of the magi, the men who had failed to butcher the explorers when they had arrived at Forgefend, to conceal their existence from the world.

It would have to be enough.

by **Ralnis** » Thu May 06, 2021 2:52 pm

Warcyfle,
The Blessed Peninsula

Grum's body was laid down with his successor and his council. Many of the Aun'kal actually came and gave their respects to the old chieftain as the new slaves were gathering the body in scented oils and wealth on a boat and sent him into the storm over the horizon. It was a new send off as the use of ships had became as widespread to the Warcyfle. From the smallest skiff to the largest trimere the navy had grown and their capabilities had provided a balanced fleet. Such a feat was something that the ancestors stuck in the home island would never had thought about 278 years ago.

It was here where they had surpassed their neighbors and kept up with their enemies and now the third chieftain of the Warcyfle, Su'pokk has took up the idea to continue of trying to reform the government. However the former scholar wanted to try and capture more slaves to try and get the Ithoi on their side but to also fuel the need for labor to fund more projects. Of course the slaves could get grumpy and so they needed to not have too many.

There was one target in mind that they saw before hand. A coastal civilization that was encountered around 10-12 years back. From the basic reports the tools that they used were a mixture of copper and another form of metal that they haven't seen before. However things can change but no one said that they could attempt a probing raid upon them. The major attack would be for the use of slaves can be a bargaining chip for promoting the strength of the Sons of Tes'la and to finally get them what they wanted, a position of leadership in the Mirror Sea.

Of course one could say that they are in a position to lead in the region. One where their power is law and all heed the Storm Father's guidance. It was here that the new chieftain had sent envoys to the Ithoi with another gift to try and make them be more friendly for the plan of Grum's to continue in his death. It would be prudent if the Warcyfle were to gain a true hand in the region than just some shipyard.

[spoiler=Su'pokk's Mandate]
Another gift of 20 wealth sent to the Ithoi and 200 marines armed with Teslanite arms and armor in 2 skiffs are sent to Likan on a slave raid.
[/spoiler]

by **Pragia** » Thu May 06, 2021 8:03 pm

The Raven and The Bear: A Corvidae Visit to the City of Mages
A Joint Writing by Lazarian and Pragia

It would be a cool mid autumn day that the vessel Arkor would moor itself in the harbor of the River's Jewel. The bireme was in excellent repair, its pine-planked hull giving off a bright, almost alabaster silhouette over the water. Aboard the vessel would be a crew of rowers as well as a contingent of Magi of the Eleskar. First among them would be Ilsah Lethsar, Archmage of the Order of the Waters. A stocky man, the magi would nominally be the master of the small fleet of vessels that the Eleskar had begun using to traverse the river Arkor and beyond, though he served at the pleasure of the Kelskar. Today the oars of the Arkor would be used not in pursuit of far away lands, nor in the transport of stone and goods to far ports. No, today the hull would be to bring a new people to the City of Magi.

Upon mooring, the bireme was the largest vessel among the smaller trade and fishing boats, and a plank would be extended and tied down to the pier. The capital of the Republic was always a sight to behold, the only city that the Archmage would admit to being of similar stature and beauty to the Eleskar. A pair of Kelskar scouts, operating as navigators and officers of the ship, would hand a small pouch of crude silver coins: Magisterium Srebras newly minted with the face of a woman with angular features: Grand Magister Tyraal. It would be of note that her name would not appear on the coin, rather just the name "Eleskar" would be printed in their alphabet under the depiction. The guards would take the coinage, silver was silver regardless of markings, and the Eleskar were not ones to create impure things.

Today the archmage was present to see to the transport of a foreign delegation: the River's Jewel has served as a place where minds of many nations have exchanged ideas. It was a situation that the Eleskar were voluntarily not party to, as the magi found their knowledge sacred and to be sought out and deliberated rather than haphazardly shared among men from all places. It is a relic of the older times where all secrets were held only to the Magi, but such tradition would be maintained. Nonetheless, the halls of Agor'a where people may openly debate the ideas had not been visited by many outsiders.

The cooler north was not as approachable as the more temperate and lush base of the river, and the Eleskar did not have a reputation of hospitality among their neighbors, a reputation likely passed along to visiting scholars. Nonetheless, a delegation of scholars from the people of Corvus has sought the City of Magi, and the newly established and formalized Magisterium viewed it as an opportunity to curry interest from far flung peoples. It was decided that, with the ongoing strife in the lands around the city, the safest and fastest transport would be by ship, so it was thus that Ilsah was here with the best of the three ships he maintained to make an impression and provide transit.

As further collaboration continued with the scholars of Riversmouth, the Spirit-Guides of Corvus heard tales of the quiet and secretive neighbors to the North. Two civilizations, formerly unknown to Corvus. Needless to say, they eagerly petitioned the elected councils of the River’s Jewel for access to these people. The wise men of the River warned the Corvidians that the Eleskar were an inward-focusing people, wary of outsiders. Nevertheless, the spirit-guides petitioned and argued and quarreled until they had acquired an audience, as the hard-headed and stubborn people or Corvus were apt to do.

As the plank was extended down from the Arkor, the Spirit-Guides eagerly flocked around it, a contingent of twenty to thirty. They were typical men of Corvus - hazel eyes, tanned skin, and braided red beards. Adorned in grey robes with four red stripes painted from hood to foot and clasps of bronze, they looked up at the bireme with admiration. Shipmaking was not within the capabilities of the great hill-city of the south, and to traverse the wild waves upon such a creation was an impressive thing indeed. A few guards stood nearby, armed in heavy scaled vests of bronze and bearing heavy spears, red stripes painted beneath their eyes in various patterns, indicating rank or accomplishment. A translator from Riversmouth stood with this delegation, and he turned to greet the men of Eleskar.

“It is a great honor to be introduced to new men and new gods!” he called up to Ilsah, gesturing to the priest next to him (as to indicate who was speaking) as the foremost of the Corvidian priests bowed. “I am Jevan Mountainsinger, current Master Dreamweaver of this pack. I shall represent my people upon this visit. We are greatly blessed to receive such generosity from your people.”

The receiving archmagus would nod, speaking in his tongue to the interpreter, though his own grey eyes would regard the Master Dreamweaver closely. “The pleasure is the Magisters’, Master Dreamwalker Jevan. Archmage Ilsah of the Waters welcomes the sons of Corvus to the northlands.” Ilsah would respond, welcoming the contingent aboard. It was tradition among the Eleskar to use first names alongside titles, as family names were typically little more than identifiers beyond the house of the Grand Magister. These men seemed more wild than is typical for the magi, though gruffness ought not be interpreted as simplicity, a mistake the Eleskar have already made in their contacts with the Machaka and evolving internal relations with their Kelskar. The use of armed men was simply not present aboard the ship. Perhaps as a sign of naivety, arrogance, or trust, one could never know in which proportions. Nonetheless, the magi present would admire the craftsmanship from afar. “It is a twelve day’s rowing upriver to the city, there is ample space below if you prefer.” he would advise

It would end up taking only ten days to reach the City of the Eleskar, the currents not being as fierce as expected. The river banks did not have onlooking peasants, and beyond the occasional dirt path which runs along the bank, few indications that the region was even inhabited would be present. Rather, the sons of Corvus would spot the masonry walls of the city, it's simple towers rising above the local treelines of the endless forests of the region. Indeed, as the Arkor approached, it would also see stone walkways before and behind the walls, the entire bank lined with a half dozen piers and wharves for coming and going vessels. There would be one other ship presently moored, the Talkor being cleaned of river scum by attentive commoners. Upon docking, the Archmage would be the first to leave the vessel, instructing the dock workers to tie it down thoroughly, as it would not be leaving back downriver for a time until their guests were ready.

From the perspective of men entering the city from the considerable docks, they would see many buildings of white and tan stones, all hewn and cut into precise blocks and stacked, sometimes even lofted with a second story. There seemed to be considerable organization to most of the city, soot-producing smithies and shoppes being kept near the walls, while much of the inner city consisted of impressive housing with looming aqueducts. Truly the amount of opulence on display would be appropriate to a tour aiming to impress, with natural vines and shrubs lining homes. Such a notion, however, would be challenged by the sidelong glances the people were giving them. The Eleskar were a people of pale complexion with a mix of dark and fair hair. Slightly taller than average and with hawkish facial features, their eyes would be suspicious of their visitors. The contingent of men of the cloth would begin to see more men of similar stature to them, wearing robes and carrying around baskets full of small disks of a tanned material, looking similar to a caked bread of some sort. The backbone of society was the provision of her people with food created from their own will, provided by the magi.

Finally, the contingent would reach the most massive structure of the city, a behemoth of cut stones arranged in a sloping ziggurat capped with a hall. “This is the Grand Scriptorum of the Eleskar, I will be taking you up to converse with the council of Magisters, merely a formality as a greeting.” There would be many men working in the lower levels, their hands slowly moving in complex forms as a soft violet glow would fill the halls. The visitors would be led to the upper levels, reaching a flat top with small gardens running along it. Here men in robes would be debating in open amphitheaters, the area surprisingly loud for how astute and opulent it would appear.

A large pair of doors would open for them to a circular room, the stone turning to a near mirror polish upon entering. There would be concentric circular steps leading down to the central landing, with one chair higher than the others directly opposite the entrance, and seven others spaced evenly to either side, circling the center. The high seat would be occupied alone, a young woman sitting in it with her hands on its arms. She was wearing a purple robe, the only one seen as they moved through the city, and a laurel of glowing purple flowers would adorn her head. All the other seats would be empty, though each one would have a name carved beneath it. She would wait for the scholars to enter, her voice obviously small, but carrying through the room excellently, in a surprisingly eloquent verbage of the Corvidae with only some mispronunciations. “Welcome, Sons of Corvus, to the Eleskar, the realm of the Dreamers. I am Tyraal Eleskar. What do you seek to learn of our people?”

Jevan paused, taken aback with surprise. It was unusual for a stranger to greet them in their own tongue - either she was supremely educated, or the influence of Corvus had spread far beyond their previous understanding. Judging by from what they had seen so far, it was likely the first.

Their journey had been uneventful, although the spirit-guides had been tremendously sea-sick for much of the duration, due to the entirely new experience. They had been quite impressed by the Land of the Magisters, as the Riverlanders called it. Unlike Corvus, which was a sprawling and incoherent jumble of workshops, markets, and homesteads strewn across the broad plains, Eleskar was neat, ordered, and pristine. The rural areas of the region showed few signs of inhabitation, aside from infrequent footpaths. The urban area, on the other hand, was heavily developed, with orderly paved roads between carefully placed districts. The Guides assumed that whatever government ruled this place was much more powerful and autocratic than that of their home, to order men to live and organize themselves in such a way.

There were a few things of note, as they were guided through the city. The first was the skeptical looks and frowns of the citizens as they passed by - apparently, these men were skeptical and distrustful of outsiders. Not entirely unreasonable, considering their proximity to the Demon’s Den, but certainly unusual for the Corvidians, who were very open to other peoples and cultures. But perhaps, living in such prosperity and order, the Eleskar had no need for the gifts and secrets of other men. Regardless, the stares did not dissuade the Spirit-Guides all that much - as far as they could tell, few outsiders were allowed past these sturdy walls. Like the Riverlanders, these people were pale-skinned, though their features were sharper, and with darker hair intermixed throughout the population.

The second thing of note was the absence of a prominent military force. There were a few men of Eles patrolling the walls, but their equipment was rudimentary and poor. Armor of bone and stone-tipped spears - a bizarre contrast with the impressive development elsewhere. In Corvus, every third man would at the very least be in the auxiliary forces. For such a city to have such a weak force was...concerning, in their minds. Though they would not voice such a sentiment - that would be quite impolite.

But the third, and most important of all, was magic. What these people took for granted was unexplainable and astounding to the guides. The Four revealed themselves through natural disasters and the weather, speaking through vague omens and unpredictable acts. Whatever god or spirit watched over the Eleskar acted with direct influence - men conjured bread from nothing through mere whispers and motions and moved stones with their minds. Such direct divine providence was terrifying and awe-inspiring, with a few of the Spirit-Guides labeling the God of the El’es as the most powerful spirit they had witnessed.

The leader of these people was a young woman, dressed in a purple robe with a wreath of purple flowers atop her head. Jevan assumed that this was likely a hereditary position, akin to the government of Penithel - it would be odd for such a young woman to have amassed the wealth necessary to command such a position like in Corvus.

The lead spirit-guide bowed deeply to a single knee (as was the custom of the spirit-guides), the small host behind him following his lead. The few soldiers with them opted not to bow, raising clenched fists in the typical military salute.

“Greetings, mighty Tyraal.” he said, looking up to the vast high seat of the throne. “We merely sought to witness the wonder of Eleskar, of which we heard from the River’s Jewel. We come bearing tidings of friendship, trade, and shared knowledge, should such things appeal to your majesty. There is much we could learn from this noble city...and a few things that it, perhaps, could learn from the sons of the Wolf.” he finished, standing tall and proud.

The Grand Magister would nod. She knew that she personally would not be as impressive as her people’s achievements to these visitors, but she was pleased by the level of courtesy shown by the visitors, more than what is usually presented in this chamber. “Please, rise men of the south.” She had dismissed the Magisters for this meeting, her chamber of advisors being directed to manage the standardization of their many texts among other plans which her people were undertaking. Such a move was also an assertion by the young leader that she would personally see to the meeting of cultures. Though she was a voracious reader and one of the keenest minds of her people, her resources regarding Corvan culture and language were incomplete observations primarily from the Riverlands.

Ilsah would introduce his leader to the Master Dreamweaver. It was a title that inspired a romantic and spiritual notion in the Grand Magister, her understanding of the Spirit-Guides was that they held similar views to the Eleskar that abstract concepts were the secrets of gods and spirits which men needed to wrest from their grasp. “Jevan, your tidings are received warmly. It is rare that an outsider willingly seeks out our home, and you may stay for as long as you wish with the Magisterium’s Blessing.” she would declare, something that Ilsah would bite his tongue upon hearing, the archmage not quite understanding why his leader has so drastically varied from the traditional allotments granted to outsiders. “Our libraries are yours to read through, and our magi will be more than willing to engage with your people in discussion of knowledge and faith, myself included. However, the teachings of the arcane are held sacred, and we simply cannot convey such teachings to outsiders, I hope that you can understand that the teachings of the Violet Queen must be kept to her people.” she would elaborate, adopting a very intent pose, leaning forward.

“I must say, it is fascinating to have men from so far in this chamber, but you may speak freely of your observations of our City, a foreign perspective is not often received. I am curious about your homeland, as to my knowledge not a single mage has made it further south than Avnelin.” She would signal to the guards at the door, and a scribe would quickly enter with a stack of papers, a wooden stylus, and a bottle of ink. Though there was still much for arrogance among the Eleskar, their current leader was much less certain of their superiority, and their recent failings has made it clear to her that there were many deficiencies in her home which she was blind to.

Jevan cleared his throat.

“I respect that your most sacred traditions are secrets to be locked away. We would not dare tread on holy grounds, nor pry our fingers into matters between you and whatever gods your people worship.” he said respectfully, nodding his head. “Thank you for your splendid hospitality. The sons of Corvus are charged with deciphering the blessings of other men and their gods, however far they may be strewn across the many lands. We shall stay until our curiosity is filled - no longer than a few seasons, surely.”
He paused, thinking for a moment.

“Corvus...is a great city. In some ways, similar to yours, and yet in many ways, not alike in the slightest. It is to the far South - over two years travel from here on land. The city is set on a great hill amidst vast plains of wheat and grass, with a thousand sprawling herds and tents surrounding it. There are few trees around, much unlike here. But enough of the geography of the place. Our people number in the thousands, spread broadly across the rural areas and the crowded city alike.

We worship the Four Aspects. Vennon, god of War. Jacnon, god of Work. The Crone, god of Wisdom. And the Crow, the god of the Wild.” he said succinctly, explaining it as they did to the children of their culture.

“A god for war?” Tyraal said curiously, raising her eyebrow in surprise.

“Yes.” Jevan said, almost excitedly. He had been one of the War-Priests when he was younger, accompanying the soldiers and giving the morning rites. Some of the guards with them grinned, finding her question rather amusing. “Vennon, the Wolf. The Father of the Bloodred Pack. The Many-Fanged Conqueror.” he continued. “Though do not confuse him for a Black King, the gods of the Demon’s Den. War and death are not what we glorify. In whole, it is a dreadful and bloody affair. But bravery, strength, and power - those are things to be admired, respected, and striven towards.”

He paused, looking around for guards or other nobles, hidden in the pillars. Delivering criticism to another ruler was potentially a great diplomatic mishap, though the Corvidians were known for being blunt at times.

“Do I have permission to speak with absolute honesty? To offer the sharpest truth from the depth of my soul? It may not be something you wish to hear.”

“It is my duty to my people to see to the concerns that they do not see, Dreamwalker. I take no offense to our failings, though I am sure that my council will find it so after I relay it to them.” she would say evenly, leaning slightly forward as to listen. Indeed, there were the home guards who were rarely seen, only a handful within the chamber however, their violet tabards dark even in the lit room.

“Very well then, your highness. Eleskar is a magnificent city, but even the smallest child of Corvus would ask this question: Where are your soldiers, oh great Tyraal? What men walk upon your walls and guard your streets at night? Is your seclusion so great that none dare approach? Does your god itself protect you from thieves, bandits, and enemies? I spotted...perhaps a hundred warriors. I mean no offense, Queen of the Eles, but should the fighting army of Corvus throw itself against these walls, the city would not withstand it for a month. Not that we should ever do such a thing, but…”

He trailed off.

“A thousand fighting men make their homes in Corvus. Equipped in thick Soulstone armor, raising sharp and sturdy spears, training day and night for the battles yet to come. And with them, we impose our will on those who defy us, or those are not strong enough to protect themselves from the dangers of this world. It is our right to do so, as the chosen of the gods. Your people are numerous, proud, and wise. The populace is healthy, educated, and clever. Far more so than my people, and I have no shame in admitting such a thing.”

His voice darkened, and his eyebrows furrowed.

“But every last man, woman, and child could be stamped out in a few moments, should the Hesukar of Skras Tor arrive on your doorstep. Should the Nirari tribes turn to cruelty, should barbarians from the night sweep in, should raiders crawl in from the banks of the rivers. It is a dangerous world out there.”

Tyraal would keep an uninflected countenance as she listens to the words of the Spirit-Guide. She was not an adept politician yet, her concern would creep onto her face as the man spoke of more dire times. “I see… In times past, we have raised forces, our Kelskar have often kept us aware of coming threats, but we have not had reason nor will under Agor’a to consign our men into the soldiery. Such things have deprived generations of potential knowledge before, and taking up arms has often been the refuge of the tragic few that avoid the teachings of the magi.” She would explain simply. “I would figure as much, as times before, we would hold behind our walls and muster the forces needed to repulse aggressors, but as your people are keenly aware, our contributions to proactive fighting have been limited at best.”

She would take a few breaths, murmuring to the scribe in Eleskari her own notes, she was concerned about how to convince her council to concur with the notions brewing in her mind. “The men of darkness indeed come, their foul magics leveraged to warfare. Perhaps we ought to learn to do similar.” she would consider darkly, openly. “Where the power to move stone may lead to tall towers, it may also lead to the descent of them upon those who would threaten our prosperity. I am aware of your Godfists, do you perhaps imagine a unit of armored magi being capable of similar things?” she would continue to muse, a dark spirit of creativity floating about her words.

Jevan put his hand on his chin for a few moments, thinking.

“Seeing as your words can compel your god Agor’a to raise stones, I would expect that they should be able to compel him to hurl them as well.” he said, clearly liking the idea. “A clever thought, your highness. It is certainly worth looking into! And if I may, I shall offer one piece of consolation - it is far easier to defend a city than it is to impose your will on others. If this is Eleskar’s sole flaw, it is hardly a fatal one.”

A smirk would run across Tyraal’s face for a fleeting moment “As much as I would wish it, and as much as the magistrate agrees, there are notions of us assembling forces to demonstrate our might upon Skras Tor, some even stupid as to propose to do so single handedly. As long as the magi rule, there will be limited interests in martial pursuit.” obviously such considerations have been brought to this very chamber. “I must ask, what material do your kind use to forge their weapons? It is unlike our native Copper, and similarly unlike the hardened stone of the Riverfolk.” She knew of iron, of course, not that the Kelskar were capable of sourcing such material within their realm, but wished to project an aura of cluelessness.

“This,” Jevan said proudly, gesturing to the thick scale vests of the guards, “is Soulstone. The blessing of the Four Aspects. The single gift that set us apart from uncivilized men, that brought us forward into enlightenment. All of the divine, working in conjunction, whispered this secret into the mind of Cavon, the First Spirit-Guide. Among all the cities of the South, Corvus alone has mastery of its creation and usage.

The Grand Magister would raise her eyebrows at this, her understanding limited of such things. “Indeed, it is of the divines. Material has, unfortunately, been the limiting factor in any martial advancements we would need to make. There have been many exotic materials found further north, but their secrets remain unfound by us. Simply put, many of our magi are more interested in cerebral pursuits than practical ones, as of late.” she would say regretfully “I would love to discuss the intricacies of our faith, for there has been much scholarship in our ranks on the subject, and perhaps this tapestry of the divine has more gaps than we have found.”

“And I would be honored to listen. The Four Aspects are the gods of Corvus, but they are not the only spirits that reside in the Dreaming World. Each city has their own divine protector - even those of our enemies. In our city, we have a great wonder - the Temple of a Thousand Pillars. Hundreds of shrines, dedicated to every worthy and noble god, so that we may have them look upon our city with favor. If your highness would not mind, please - tell us your ways, so that we may learn.”

And so they did. Such were things in the Enlightened City and the Lands of the Wolf.

by **Olthenia** » Fri May 07, 2021 3:18 pm

The Khortuun

The Gate of Seven Sighs
Sandstalker's Lane

The huddled crowd of hopefuls stirred – single and in pairs. The darkness still shrouded their little lane by the courtyard, and their all but steamed from their nostrils. It was early in the day to be out and about! So early, I nfact, you could well argue it was night. But alas – as it was known to all Khortuun – a girl had to be early to get what she wanted. And these particular hopefuls wanted nothing less than to be worthy.

The sudden sound of wood on wood made the pack of hopefuls stir – and then, just as the town all around them also stirred for a new day – the gates at the end of the little lane swung open. They were heavy set, these gates – and of low, sturdy timbers. And the ones who swung them open were tall, mean-faced war-mothers. “Come, come, come!” yelled a voice from the pre-dawn gloom. “Everyone inside!” It was a funny thing, war. Like a craft – or indeed, any of the skills an artisan might master – you could either be good at it, or bad. Yet to be good was not to be the master of any one skill – so much as the master of many in unison.

Good warriors run swift.
Good warriors strike hard.
Good warriors obey their mothers.

These, then, were the tenets of war in Sorrowfree. And the Khortuun, ever faithful to their mothers and the Moon that watched over them, had a safe and certain name for it: Nduja. The war-way. Traditionally, it was true, the ways of war and martial pursuits had been the renown of the Bonadar – the so-called ‘Sandriders’ of Khortuun legend. These were the braves who featured in their stories. Who safeguarded the children. Who tricked the abominations of the desert and humbled the mighty brutes of other tribes. And yet? In the day and age fast approaching the children of the Vale of Ustar? The Bonadar would scarce be enough. Not truly.

“To go to war and battle with your strength untested is to hunt abominations with a copper spear.” A wise priestess had spoken as much in council, and the other elders had nodded. “We have learned the ways of war. And we know what we must do.” To do less is failure. And so? Here they were – these huddled hopefuls by the barrack gates. Third-daughters and seventh-sons. Ditch-diggers and garden-hands. Here to learn, and be worthy of, the warrior’s craft. The Nduja. Most of them, quite probably, wouldn’t make it. Some would find the drill and hardship too taxing. Too unpleasant. Too awful and scary and demanding.

“To be sure,” a Penithel grandee had drawled – and the Khortuun delegation to fair Avnelin had taken much note of this – “-most recruits don’t make it. But that’s as fair as can be. Bad recruits should break early.” If not – if the bad in them wasn’t spotted before it was too late and battle was joined? Well, they could break any battle-line, and lose the lives of good battle-sisters also. This, to be sure, would be the death of any war-party – and no, no, no. The Nduja, then, was part audition – to see which youths had the fire and gumption to stand up to hardship – and part assaying, as wary forge-mothers might purge slag and filth from metal ingots in the fire. And render pure metal before smithing could begin.

“Come on, you wretches! Form up! Form up! Form UP!” Harsh commands. Much shouting. Trutly, if shouting alone could forge recruits into soldiers? – why, the Khortuun war-mothers would have conquered the world. But no, no. The shouting was just the start of it.

But hardly the end.

Other:
-A new expedition sets forth to eye out the western savages, the men of rock and stone. Is their abode a mere camp or an actual settlement? Can their numbers be guessed at? And how, if at all, are they armed and armored? (W-W-W-N-E-E).
-The Banner of the Black Door is adopted amongst the Khortuun this year, with many a solemn oath.

by **Lazarian** » Fri May 07, 2021 5:44 pm

Corvus

Fear. Terror. Awe.

Such were the words of the Sons of the Crow upon their return from the city of Forgefend.

A city the size of Corvus, and yet one of many, all from the same civilization and culture.

A blazing temple of smoke and ash, capable of heating an entire city.

Warriors who donned armor made of Soulstone and iron alike. Soulstone. The Corvidian secret, known to them alone. Or so they had thought.

The Father and Mother, the gods of this city...were perhaps the greatest of them all, the explorers said with fearful voices and dreadful whispers.

“So. Tell us, exactly, what you told those Deepkin.” said Laepon Valleyherder, addressing a group of explorers gathered to the front of the Temple. He and the other councilmembers sat in pews, listening to their audience. There were over fifty of them these days - the City’s Soul had expanded dramatically from the olden days, where only seven men oversaw the matters of the entire city. Now many voices spoke, for better or for worse.

The council was, as usual, meeting at the Temple of the Thousand Pillars. They sat not in the direct temple itself, but in a separate hall built exclusively for the governance of the city. It was only fitting that the seat of power in Corvus was adjacent to the divine - and, on a more practical level, near the vast administrative records and halls of the Spirit-Guides, whose hands steered many aspects of day to day government.

“When we saw them, the first thing in our minds was fear. We feared that they would chase us back home, that they would conquer and burn our great city. Their army was not all that great in number, but Forgefend was one of many - surely, the Deepkin could raise an army that would blot out the sun.” said Loraen Farstrider, a sturdy man with a bushy beard. The Sons of the Crow had chosen him to be the Speaker - he had a fine voice, which projected loud through the many pillars and seats of the hall.

“Goat shite!” interjected Coraen the Younger, a Pacate Captain of two hundred men. With his terribly scarred face, he scowled down at the explorer, gripping his feathered spear tightly. “You feared for the safety of our people? Such a thing is an insult to our strength.” he said with a sneer, crossing his arms. “There are none who threaten Corvus. The Riverlanders, the Khortuun, the Hesukar, the Huang - friend or foe alike, they would crumble at our might. And these Deepkin would as well!”

“You truly do not understand what we have seen. Your arrogance has clasped its hands over your ears, deafening the voice of wisdom.” Loraen replied, shaking his head in remorse. “I do not mean to say that we could never oppose them, or that we should live in fear. We simply must prepare for the potential of such a thing.”

“Enough. This is no time for such argument.” said Joran Firsttanner, putting his fat fingers onto his desk. “Continue. What did you tell them?”

“Half-truths.” continued Loraen. “We told them that we were from a league of great and powerful cities, who worked together for our greater prosperity. Which...in a way, is true.”

There was murmuring amongst the council. The Coalition had arose before, though it was a loose alliance at best, a gathering of mutual interests against the forces of Skras Tor. There was cooperation and trade between Riversmouth and Penithel, Corvus and Sorrowfree, and the Eleskar and Machaka...but to say that all cities were in a league together was hardly a truth at all.

“And we said that we were the military of such an alliance. A force that could defy any, and shake off any oppressor or barbarian.” he finished, looking up for approval. “You have to understand - we were afraid. What if they followed us? What if they sought for conquest and blood? It was only right that we hoped to dissuade them from such things.”

The chamber was quiet. Men spoke to their neighbors nervously and quietly. Such a development was highly concerning.

“Regardless. We did not tell them from whence we had come. We walked through rivers and streams, attempting to disguise the way from which we had come. They would have to search long and hard to find us. Perhaps some of you may be displeased that we lied, that we presented a false image and a mere projection of strength. But I would argue that it is best that they respect us. There is much we could learn from the Deepkin. But they are a fearsome and solitary people, who stand alone. If we are to interact with them at all...we must present ourselves as equals. For if we fall short…"

Lorean paused, taking in a deep breath.

"We are but prey.”

by **The GAmeTopians** » Sat May 08, 2021 12:15 pm

The Republic of the Great River

Office of the First Speaker

Strange days in the Republic. Countless whispers passed between friends and foes alike, in dark alleyways and behind closed doors. The offices of the Archons and the First Speaker himself were no different - if anything, the security in these places was even tighter. If one were to press their ear to the door of the most powerful man in the city, they might barely make out the mumblings of a heated argument.

“Mister Speaker, with all due respect, the Outsider is a dangerous creature of the highest order! Our great republic could face destruction on a whim!”

The Outsider. A strange being indeed. None claim to have met him, nor could they even describe his face, though he speaks to many in their dreams. Words of darkness, of void. Of power.

“I understand, Archon, but the Marked are also a military asset which we cannot afford to give up. From a government standpoint, the relationship between the republic and the Outsider is strictly one of business - nothing more. The people themselves may believe in whatever they wish.”

Such is the way of things in the River’s Jewel. Such is the way of things in this strange world.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Sat May 08, 2021 1:56 pm

Year 280 of the Reckoning

Turn 40

Zhai Cheng: 1000 Peasants and 300 Freemen are added to Zhai Cheng - 500 Peasants and 100 Freemen to Yuzhou.

Eleskar: There is no news of joy from the prospectors - though they have scoured the region, and sifted the streams, they have found nothing of value. Nine hundred Freemen and added to Eleskar - two hundred to Kelska-ar.

Machaka: Tel Defenses no longer elude the scholars of the Republic - with these formidable bastions of stone watching over the outskirts of city, only fools and madmen would dare to raid the Machaka. The explorers from Machaka enter a region of cold arboreal forests. To the east warmer temperate forests range, while to north and west the pine woodlands continue. Hardy tubers grow in this soil, and wooly sheep with curling horns can be found in odd clearings. There are also large ground squirrels here, such as might be good to eat if hunted. The prospectors have found nothing. Seven hundred Peasants and three hundred Freemen are added to Machaka. One hundred Freemen are added to Jokia.

Deepkin: Southwest of west, along the coast of the Endless Sea, the scouts discover a wide region of thick forests. There are strange stones here, filled with a pale white light, which hang in the air when removed from the earth. There is also native copper, and large wolves stalk the coastal forests. The lands about this area are already known, and coast border it to both north and west. Northeast of east of Stalheim men return with reports of the region. Fallen meteors litter this region of wide plains, and thick spongy heather fills the foothills of the Mountains of Midnight. There are long limbed animals, that chew on the grass and grow formidable pelts, that live here as well. Smiths working in Stalheim have devised a method of high temperature smelting, involving ores born on the wind falling through a vertical hall of heat, which promises to be a good to many.

Fishermen working off the coast of Kar Agala have begun freediving to the great clams which live in the chill waters, harvesting the impressive pearls there. These gorgeous luxuries may be worked at a Gemcutter. Wild Rice has also been successfully brought from across the Mountains of Midnight and domesticated in Stalheim.
Nineteen-hundred Freemen are now in Kharbarinth, fifteen hundred in Stalheim, one thousand in Forgefend, four hundred in Kar Agala, and seven hundred Svalheim. Two hundred Peasants are educated into Freemen in Svalheim.

Warclyfe: The scholars of Warclyfe have devised methods of Governance, to rule how men relate to their chiefs and how best to live in a society. The gift to the Ithoi is well-received, and the Primus of the Ithoi recommends that a son of Su'pokk be married to one of his daughters, to conclude an alliance of blood between their peoples. Three hundred peasants and two hundred Freemen are added to Lo - two hundred Peasants to Mantui. The slave raid to Likan has been turned back by the wary Velathriim, thankfully with no losses to the soldiery.

Sorrowfree: The expedition of the Khortuun to the strange stone spires cannot draw very close to these pits of iniquity; the land swarms with the giants with red hair, accompanied by smaller striding beasts with skins of stone. They are many, counting their numbers is difficult - many hundreds, certainly, inhabit the spines of stone which rise high above the forest floor. If men could have built such things with their hands is hard to say, but the spines seem delved and hollowed, gnawers cutting homes and tunnels into the sturdy rock. To siege such a place would take much blood, indeed, indeed. Six hundred peasants are added to Sorrowfree, three hundred Freedwomen. One hundred Freewomen also now inhabit the Three Brothers.

Rivermouth: Methods of Eldritch Construction have been devised by the worshipers of the Outsider - means whereby greater amounts of resources may be sent to his plane of existence, and power gained in return. The tale of the prospectors from the southwest is unfortunately empty. Seven hundred Peasants and three hundred Freemen are added to the people of the River.

Corvus: The explorers sent south of south of south map out a region of high mountains. To the west tropical jungles unfold, and to both east and south, wide grasslands. There are small red fruits with a flavor of fire that grow in the highland vales here, and hunting falcons of impressive size which prey on small rodents that abound in the rocks. There is also an ore here, strange to the eye, which seems almost to blend into the very rock and which the gaze of the explorers instinctively avoids. It is a pale green, as best they can tell, but it causes headaches when they stare at it for too long. Nine hundred Peasants and four hundred Freemen are added to the people of Corvus; two hundred Peasants and four hundred Freemen to Cavon.

Avnelin: Four hundred Peasants and two hundred Freemen are added to Avnelin; two hundred Freemen and one hundred Peasants to Sardavin.

Velathrii: Four hundred Peasants and two hundred Freemen are added to Velathri.

by **Novas Arcanum** » Sat May 08, 2021 6:13 pm

Zhai Cheng,Forbidden Palace

The Warlord of the Yue bowed in respect and gave his thanks before the army marched northward swiftly and promptly to their capitol city of Anyang. Many of the Yue Scholars wished to stay having enjoyed the splendor of Zhai Cheng and wishing to learn more but alas their mission was complete and with heavy hearts they leave giving many thanks to their Shao teachers who taught them. The Yue promised emissaries to be sent to Zhai Cheng and for the raids to cease.Perhaps closer relations would be made possible between the two states. Only Heaven knew what was in store for the future.

Zhai Cheng

Population: 4855(+800 Growth)

Urban District I [Granary , Spinning House,3 huts, Bloomery, Guojizian, Monument, Nursery, Shrine (+3 Stability) ,Forge, Charcoal Pit],+I Flat Food Bonus |II Palisade | Aqueduct
Urban District II[Forbidden Palace(+2 Stability),Garrison, Smithy, Clinic, 6 Huts,3 Cottages(+3 Stability)] +I Food Bonus| Palisade
Urban District III [Dense Housing,2 Huts,7 Spinning Houses, Jade Tower (+5 Stability) ] |Simple Stone Wall |+I Flat Food Bonus
Rural District I [5 Huts, Timber Camp,7 Gardens , Galena Scrape Mine]|Watchposts||Aqueduct +III Flat Food Bonus
Rural District II[ Galena Scrape Mine, 4 Paddocks (Unicorn)]|Watchposts,|+III Flat Food Bonus.
Rural District III [Farm,2 Paddocks (Unicorn)]|Watchposts| Aqueduct|+III Flat Food Bonus
Rural District IV [4 Quarries ]Watchposts|+III Food
Rural District V [6 Cotton Plantations] |Watchposts |+III Food
Rural District VI [1 Cotton Plantation]|Watchposts|+III Food
Rural District VII [1 Farm] | Watchposts|+III Food
Population Actions:
700 Scholars [Urban District I] Researching secret,secret for the umpteenth time [Telegrammed G]
400 Bureaucrats [Urban District I]| Enacting wise and sound government policy +IV Wisdom, +IV Wealth, +IV Stability |Plan of Multitudes [XIX/XX]|
100 Peasants [Rural District I]| Working hard--->[+I Labor, +XXII Food ,+I Timber, +I Galena Ore(3 from Domestic Crops,5 from granary ,7 from Aqueduct). ]
1300 Peasants [Rural District II] | Working long hours-->[ +XIII Labor ]
100 Peasants gathering food near settlement, +IV Food
100 Soldiers are guarding the Peasants
100 Peasants [Rural District VI]|Working hard [+I Cotton, +I Labor]
100 Peasants [Rural District II]|Working long hours --->[+IV Food, +II Hides, +I Galena Ore ,+I Labor]
100 Peasants [Rural District III]| Working long hours --->[+IV Hides, +VII Food ,+I Labor(1 from domestic animal source,2 from paddocks,2 from farm,2 from Aqueduct)]
100 Peasants [Rural District V] |Working hard [+VII Cotton, +I Labor]
100 Peasants [Rural District VII] |Working hard [+II Food, +I Labor]
100 Peasants [Forests (Trapped) ] Gathering Silk,+ I Labor
100 Peasants [Rural District IV] |Working hard [+I Stone, +I Labor]
55 Soldiers are guarding the peasants gathering silk
100 Artisans [Urban District] | Crafting wares and tools at the Forge ---> -I Charcoal, -I Galena Ore +III Wealth
100 Artisans [Urban District]|Crafting tools and wares at Bloomery--->-I Charcoal,-I Galena Ore, +II Wealth,-II Wealth, +I Industry
100 Artisans [Urban District]|Weaving silk clothing--->-I Silk, weaving silk cloth. +I Silk Cloth.
100 Artisans [Urban District]| Crafting tools and ware at Bloomery-->-I Charcoal,-I Galena +III Wealth
100 Artisans [Urban District]| Weaving cotton clothing ---> +XV Wealth
100 Artisans [Urban District]|Crafting tools and wares --->-II Wealth, +I Industry
100 Artisans [Urban District]|Crafting tools and wares--->+I Wealth
100 Explorers |Gathering galena ore unseen and unheard +I Galena
200 Freemen [Rural District VI]-Studying the Laoist Classics in their free time [+II Labor]
400 Soldiers (Mount) patrolling in Zhai Cheng
Galley Squadron Patrolling the waters of the Sea of Zhai Cheng

Miscellaneous
100 Freemen educated has Scholars
100 Peasants take the Civil Servant Exams and pass becoming Bureaucrats
Plan of Fields [4/5]
+I Stability from Splendid Isolation.
-18 Stability from overcrowding.

Construction
Urban District [IV/IV Labor| III/III Wealth]
5x Training Grounds [X/X]
Dense Housing rises on the banks of the Yu River [Labor V/V| Wealth IV/IV | Industry II/II| 3/3 Stone| 2/2 Timber].Complete.
Grand Wall Rises around the Forbidden Palace [Labor I/V| Wealth I/ VI| Industry 0/V| /XX Stone].Slowly.
Simple Stone Wall [Labor IV/IV| Wealth II/ II | Industry I/I|V/V Stone ]
Aqueducts[V/V Labor| III/III Wealth| III/III Industry| V/V Stone].Complete.
Aqueducts[0/V Labor| III/III Wealth|0/III Industry| II/V Stone]
Docks District [Labor 0/VI |Wealth 0/V| Industry 0/IV Industry ]

Economy
+II Wealth from Palace Economy.
-I Wealth from Splendid Isolation.

Stability
97

Special Action-Silk Cloth is gifted to the Yue

by **Pragia** » Sat May 08, 2021 7:24 pm

80th Year of the Magisterium of the Eleskar, 12th Year of Tyraal

It would not be the first time that Tyraal would find herself overseeing the docks of the Eleskar. Behind her a grand construction was in progress, an immense Ziggurat, reaching into the heavens with a base that takes up a large portion of the outer city. Work teams of magi would be raising carefully cut stone into formation and polishing it to an alabaster sheen. It would be termed the Violet Chambers, an idea posited by her mother toward the end of her life, but it was a notion the Magisters never did give up on. Tyraal was willing to accept their request and delegate considerable resources to the endeavor. It would likely take another few years until it was properly complete. Where the Grand Scriptorum originally created generations before would be an open hall of learning, the Violet Chambers would be more secretive.

The refinement of the Eleskar's power has opened up the possibility of focusing their power to the projection of magics which could affect the world more broadly. The eponymous Violet Chambers would be located deep under the structure, lit by torch and the light of magical practicing. While the upper layers would be a place of governance where the magi would be able to deliberate as before, the lower chambers would be host to experiments of magic at scale, and secret texts would be kept within their sealed rooms. For now the magi have theorized a method of revealing the secrets held beneath the earth, a tool which would be invaluable for what the Grand Magister was seeing to in the docks.

Before Tyraal the small fleet of the Eleskar was assembled and ready, the Kelskar in a disorganized formation before their leader. She would be speaking with considerable projection, her formal speaking having improved since her conversing with foreign representatives.

"Men of Jorin Kelska, the first who enlightened us to the wider world, you stand before a changing city. The Magisterium did not exist in his time, but he would have approved of what it stood for: that the people of the Eleskar cannot be held to the deep forests, and that the pursuit of knowledge requires us to venture beyond our homes." she would gesture with a single arm out to the vessels moored behind them "You set off on the largest expeditions since the discovery of the Machaka, now equipped with the tools to operate at scales never seen. The things you discover will decide where our future will reside. This is a momentous time as we move into a new age of expansion, and you will be on the frontier, your names carved into the foundings of whole cities of people. So go forth into history such that the Eleskar will remember you for generations!"

There would be a few cheers from the explorers, but mostly a stoic optimism that was typical of the Kelskar. They knew that their work ahead would not be as glamorous, rowing for days on end only to disembark and map wide tracts of land. The magisterium needed ports to access the sea without relying of treacherous rowings downriver. There were murmurs of aspirations in lands beyond the sea, but such ideas were well beyond their current capabilities. Nonetheless, there was optimism, as the last generation of explorers were now the city fathers of Kelska-ar, and similar glories were in the minds of these explorers as they boarded their vessels.

by **The National Dominion of Hungary** » Sun May 09, 2021 11:28 am

The Land of Penithel

Royal Palace of Avnelin - Library

"Oh goodness no my Prince! A King? Charging at the head of an army against enemy lines? Oh perish the thought for that is most certainly not the role of a King!"

Crown Prince Hidrak looked on with mild curiosity as Lord Hemath, his Royal Tutor aggressively stalked back and forth between the shelves that lined the Library of the Royal Palace, filled to the brim with written clay tablets. The Royal Tutor was the patriarch of a most noble aristocratic House and counted among the foremost scholars at the Scriptorium of Avnelin. He had a large, bushy, all-white eyebrows always seemed to go up and down, furrowing and unfurrowing as his tireless mind churned on.

Lord Hemath shook his head in frustration. "Charging... No, no, no!" He growled as he paced back and forth. The fourteen year-old Crown Prince grimaced. The answer to the question; "what is the purpose of the king" was hardly a difficult one, after all, his lessons were intended to teach him just that which made it so much more embarrassing to get it wrong.

The Royal Tutor finally stopped pacing, took a deep breath and stared down at his princely student. "My Prince." The old lord sighed. "In savage foreign lands, no doubt they raise up their king the way they raise their war chiefs to a position of power and authority. They pick the biggest, meanest and most barbaric brute they can find and put him on a steed to lead them on a blood-soaked rampage against their neighbors. But in fair Penithel? The thought is absurd my Prince." Lord Hemath explained.

Prince Hidrak grimaced and blushed. Yet even though he knew he was in the wrong he couldn't help but to reply with what he had read about one of his illustrious ancestors. "I thought my great grandfather was in command of the army that marched upon the Niari, no? Which is how we gained the Unicorn." Hidrak said. The Royal Tutor looked down at his royal student with one large eyebrow raised. Then, stroking his white beard ponderously, the steely gaze of the old man's green eyes softened in that one way Prince Hidrak had learned it did when he thought his student had said something smart, a rare occurrence in other words.

"You are quite right, my Prince." The Royal Tutor said with a nod. "Your Majesty's illustrious ancestor did indeed on occasion during his long and glorious reign command the armies, well... in those olden days still the warbands of Penithel. But he was no savage warlord. In most of these encounters he was alongside his war-chiefs away from the actual battlefield and was not charging anywhere. What you also need to recognize, my Prince, is that leading warriors into battle was hardly among old King Tauhros´ most admirable decisions. Yet it may have been justified by a principle of kingship that, if you study hard, we may get to later in your classes. But if so we really must move on from this silly discussion." Lord Hemath spoke sagely.

The Royal Tutor sat down on a large, plushy pillow next to Prince Hidrak. He was not a tall man and when he sat next to the youth they were almost the same height. "So!" The old lord exclaimed. "What is the purpose of kingship, young Prince. And I don't ask what the role of the king is at war so please put aside any thoughts on this somber endeavor and turn to the more general question. What is the answer that we seek? What does the Great Philosopher say?"

That question was so leading that any young Pennethelli lordling could have answered it. Everyone loved to quote the Great Philosopher and as befits a prince of Penithel, Hidrak had been taught all the maxims of the Great Philosopher so thoroughly he could recite them in his sleep. Just like the other maxims, the Prince knew this one by heart. "The Great Philospher said..." Hidrak began, speaking in the declaratory tone that the nobles of Penithel always used when quoting their favorite philosophical maxims. "The enlightened sovereign must be anything but an arbitrary tyrant. By a tyrant we mean a ruler who follows all his impulses, whims and passions. Once the governance of the state is established and systematized in perpetuation of all that is Pennethelli, the Enlightened Sovereign must not interfere with it's workings. He may employ the whole of his government to achieve his foreign and domestic objectives, but to do so he must not interrupt the impersonal workings of the state. He must always maintain a wall of the hardest stone between his personal self and his public role. Family, friends and flatterers must have no influence on the course of policy, and he must be ever suspicious of the motives of those who surround him." Prince Hidrak said.

"Precisely." The Royal Tutor said with a nod. "And accurate almost word for word, very good my Prince." The old man declared. "Moving on, if to be enlightened is to not be arbitrary, what then does it mean to be arbitrary?"

The Prince looked down, deep in thought. "To not follow ones impulses, whims and passions."

The old lord sighed in annoyance and shook his head before turning back to his royal student. "Yes, yes, you just said so my Prince, but what does that mean? Come on, elaborate, illucidate!"

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Mon May 10, 2021 6:37 am

Deepkin

Sootbite Lane, Kharbarinth
Second of Rain's Hand, Year Twohundred Eightytwo of the Reckoning

It was like staring into the sun, hour after hour. Malaki hefted the bucket of ore, delicately dumping it onto the curved length of forged iron, then upended the entire assemblage. With an almighty clatter, or what the smeltery worker assumed was an almighty clatter, the boulders and broken stone rolled away down the ramp, tumbling into the void of the furnace. Wisps of soot and other impurities blossomed upwards alongside an impressive amount of sparks. Not that he could hear any of this mess of noise. If you wanted to preserve your hearing when you worked at the apex of the furnace, you stuffed your ears with cloth and wound your head about with bands of leather provided to the workers, to block out the ceaseless roar of the bellows and the endless avalanche of the ore being tumbled by the conflagration below.

Not that it entirely worked. He had only worked here for a few months, but the man from Kar Agala still fear that he was losing a bit of his ability to hear day after day, and his wife had to yell louder when he was at home to get his attention. Working at the blast furnace paid well though, especially working high up in the rigging, as he did. You would be hard pressed to find a job that paid more coppers for an unskilled man fresh come to the City of Bells, and that was the most important factor for the immigrant.

He turned back, pulling another basket of ore off of the line that the men below hauled upon to raise the baskets to the apex of the furnace, here nearly eighty spans above the hard pavement below. Other workers, more skilled and wearing heavy aprons against flame, carefully sheperded the molten metal out of the base of the furnace into casting molds for ingots, where it would cool after being skimmed of impurities. This basket held a large amount of pulverized white stone, what the forge-master called flux. Malaki didn't really know why you had to throw powdered stone into the furnace, not when the wind and creaking bellows and sheer heat seemed sufficient to purify the iron. But he wasn't paid to think.

He was paid to stand in high places, and grab baskets of stone. So that's exactly what he did.

by **Lazarian** » Mon May 10, 2021 7:09 pm

Corvus

Artist depiction of a Corvidian Bloodred, circa ~300 BHA

The Proving Fields
Twentieth of Sunsheight

"It is time for our revenge!" shouted Coraen the Elder, pounding his fists upon the podium, his voice echoing through the field. "The Stone Men have lived for far too long! Every breath they take is an affront to the families of the lost! Every waking moment they stand alive is a testament to our weakness! The Forsaken must be destroyed!"

The crowd of soldiers roared, clattering sword against shield. It was the Festival of Vennon, the peak of the summer solstice. The men had spent the day out in the field, in great contests of strength, archery, and running, before returning to a great feast at the end of the day. Vast dishes of gazelle, goat, yam, grain, and even camel were laid across tables of firm wood. There were bowls of clay (purchased from Sorrowfree) at the end, and the men served themselves hearty bowls of blood-soup and bone-broth. In their midst laid the podium, where the Pacate Captains would address their men. Many of the Pacates had already taken the stand, congratulating, chiding, and clamoring for various causes and concerns.

And some of those said captains had grown to be quite an issue. As Coraen continued his vengeful screed, the twenty or so representatives from the Tanner's Guild shifted nervously in their robes. Coraen Younger and Coraen Elder (twins, separated by mere minutes) had become quite difficult in recent times. Popular, influential, capable...good traits for generals and tyrants alike. The council kept a close ear on the pulse of the city, seeding informants into every corner, from soldier to spirit-guide.

And what they seemed to hear at every turn was vengeful moods and violent thoughts. Even the Spirit-Guides spoke of violent omens, their augur sacrifices revealing death and conquest at every turn. And who could blame them? One in four men spent their days out in the field, training for a battle that never seemed to come. A fair city had simply been stomped out, because they had not been there to protect it. Their friends in the North had turned to worshipping a dangerous new god, jaded and embittered by their losses at the walls of Skras Tor.

And angry, restless men...could spread dangerous words. Some spread whispers of bringing back the Old Ways, of anointing a Tribelord and doing away with this "representative government" of the Council. The city was hardly unstable - there was food aplenty, the government had a strong hold and worked with efficiency on public works, and they now lived in splendid homes, with great renovations being sponsored by the Soulsmith Guild in recent years. But no matter how comfortable their lives were...they sought more. Always more. Comfortable houses and good food would not lead a man's heart to rest.

Greed, after all, was a virtue among the Corvidians. It was right to seek more, to strive for more, to grasp at comfort and status through whatever means necessary. Such a thing was ordained by the gods themselves. As the Chosen people, the world was theirs to take - if they were strong enough to take it. For the Forsaken to have taken from them and to be met unanswered...was a black mark upon their pride.

"Now, now." said Leiran Grainguide, standing up and interrupting Coraen. The Pacate turned in anger and raised his hand, as if to strike the man for his interruption...but the soulstone amulet sitting upon Leiran's chest signified his status in the Tanner's Guild. Such a thing clearly designated him as a man not to be trifled with. Despite this, Leiran's heart fluttered nervously in his chest. "We will destroy the Forsaken. But we must be fully prepared first. It will not happen this year."

Boos and jeers filled the air, outraged calls of dissent. Coraen smiled, raising a finger to silence the crowd. And it paused, eager to hear Coraen's response.

"This man tells us to wait! To let our brothers struggle in bondage! To let the Forsaken stain the world with their piss until the Crow consumes the world! But we have waited for long enough. Too long. Far too long. And this man dares to interrupt me, to tell us to be patient, that the Forsaken are not a concern. He attempts to calm our howling souls, to seek peace and leisure. For this man sits in luxury and comfort, surrounded by concubines and riches! A Tanner's Man!" Coraen shouted, disdain dripping through his teeth. "A slug, with no understanding of the truth of Our Father the Wolf! Our hearts can be stilled no longer, guildsman! Money cannot suture the wounds of the soul! Do you understand your foolishness?" Coraen snarled, looking down at Leiran with a proud sneer. Leiran gulped - he had not sought an open confrontation in a public place.

A man in the audience booed, and the sound of spitting could be heard.

"Your wealth and comfort has blinded you to the concerns of the people!" another shouted, to Leiran's right.

"The gods clamor for justice! For vengeance!" cried another.

"We're ready now! None can stand in our way! We shall blot out the sun with our arrows!" roared another burly voice, a man with the patterned tattoos of the Aled.

Another shout followed, and then another, and seven more at once, and then thirty more! Leiran was drowned in a wall of sound, staring at a crowd of angry soldiers, who glared at him with red-striped faces and clenched teeth. A clump of goat dung flew through the air, spattering near his feet.

"Silence!" shouted Leiran, attempting to control the crowd, but it was far too late for such a thing. They surged forwards, hurling dung and sticks and stones at the Tanner's Representatives, a hideous insult. Such an offense would be greatly punishable in any other circumstances - a month's hard labor in the quarries, with only gruel to consume. But there were hundreds of men here, and in anonymity, they were faceless and nameless. They could not all be punished. Leiran and his followers began to panic as the men closed in on their table, with furrowed brows and clenched fists.

Silently, Coraen the Elder raised his fist high, and the crowd slowly subsided, their angry voices calming.

"Now, now. We should not treat our brothers with such ill regard." he chided, clearly pleased. "Please, let them leave our holy festival in peace. But perhaps now they understand our passion, our rage, our desires! We cannot sit and train forever, Leiran Grainguide. Let your master Joran know that we cannot simply train in the fields forever."

Leiran nodded, scraping dung off the front of his robes, the color drained from his face. Such a thing was a terrible embarrassment to the Tanner's House. The lack of control over the Bloodreds was an even greater concern. The Council could not let such a force sit idly for much longer.

Coraen leaned idly against his spear, chewing on a long stalk of grass.

"I apologize for the rudeness of my men. Simply caught up in the Crow's passion. I shall discipline them all severely." he said, though none in attendance believed that for but a moment. "We appreciate the armaments of the Smiths, and the provisions of the Herders, and the sponsorship of the Tanners.

But this Wolf, which we command...has come to full age. And it must hunt."

by **The Empire of Tau** » Mon May 10, 2021 10:37 pm

Republic of Machaka - Turn 41

by **Olthenia** » Tue May 11, 2021 11:39 am

Wʜᴀᴛ ɪғ
ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴɪᴠᴇʀsᴇ
ᴡᴀs ʏᴏᴜʀ sᴋɪɴ
ᴀɴᴅ ʏᴏᴜʀ ғʟᴇsʜ
ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛɪɴʏ ʙɪᴛs ᴏғ ᴄᴏʟᴏʀ
sᴘɪʟʟᴇᴅ ᴏᴜᴛ
ᴏᴠᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴜʀᴠᴇs
ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʙᴏᴅʏ?

-Tʏʟᴇʀ Kɴᴏᴛᴛ Gʀᴇɢsᴏɴ

Other:
-N/A

by **The GAmeTopians** » Tue May 11, 2021 11:51 am

The Republic of the Great River

No lore this time, I’m using too much data keeping my hotspot active as it is, hopefully my internet will finally be back up tomorrow

by **Ralnis** » Wed May 12, 2021 5:30 am

Warcyfle,
Island of Lo

Su'pokk's first two years was marked by the breeding of a new generation and the reforms of the oilgarchy. Already there were more people that were looking to migrate to the Blessed Peninsula than the home city. Even though that stone had kept the island defended or made homes that were made of the jungles. The city itself was a blossoming population of over 3000 people. The grand Scriptorim had made more educated men in the island and many of the scholars were looking into getting more of their own as their chieftain had started to push for more scholars in order to try and advance the Warcyfle even further than what Grum had done. Most came in the form of practical knowledges with many still looking to give the scholars a home for them to study the Path of Tes'la.

This came up with the idea of the Red Tower, a temple that could be the focal point of esoteric research around the powers of the Storm Father and exploitation. The next phase was to start by organizing a new set of standards of numerical teachings for the new major houses. The standard called Mathematics. It was a first of many to get away from naval combat or just the standards of Teslanite.

The final, and most important issue for the new chieftain was to try and establish an alliance with the Primus. The Ithoi had considered them equals to the point that they wanted a marriage and that alone was good enough for them. If the scholarly chieftain could add on their support against the Aun'kal and finally conquer them then that would be for the both of them. The Warcyfle leadership was still split by the idea, since the Aun'kal's intertwining with them had brought prosperity but then there were those who saw to conquer them. The idea was to bring the Sons of Tes'la's culture and power to be the strongest in the region.

Su'pokk was with those who were hungry for power and wanted to establish something beyond just one island. The chieftain was going with the idea that came from it. One could perhaps even say the word that was being made. That term was being called...kingdom. This term was something the Sons wouldn't have figured that to be but with the expansion beyond just their island and looking to conquer their former allies in a bid for regional conquest. It's all that is something he never thought to his mind but new things were being made everyday and the Warcyfle knew that there was more than just this region. There could be more islands or even there could be a bid for the mainland?

All these questions had to be answered not by them, but by the Ithoi.

Mandate of Su'pokk

Send another 20 wealth to the Ithoi. Envoy's sent to the Primus agree to the blood alliance and express interest in their support in trying to conquer the Aun'kal. They offer spoils of war and slaves should they win.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Wed May 12, 2021 2:05 pm

Year 282 of the Reckoning

Turn 41

Zhai Cheng: There is great sorrow at the iniquity the people of Zhongdu have suffered, despite the protection of the Huang. Some in Yuzhou whisper that the scions of Shao have lost the Mandate of Heaven, that Yama and the Ancestors no longer look on the leaders of the people with favor. -40 Stability in Zhai Cheng.

Eleskar: The explorers sent south of south have mapped out a region of deep forests, stretching in all directions of the compass. There are black berries that grow on vines which wind around the forest trees here, tart and sickening to eat, and good deer, game which could fill bellies. There is also native silver to be found here, the friend of the Machaka. Southeast of south, near at hand, the coastline is prominent, filling the southern and eastern horizons. To the north, forests unfold. Panthers stalk this land, and more dangerous still are immense bat-winged beasts which prey on all that lives on this broken coastline from the air, their gray forms silent and as large as many men, carrying away their prey with great violence. There is also native silver to be found here. Of the Explorers dispatched to the southeast of south of south, no word has come...

Men working hard at the margins of Eleskari society have made an impressive discovery - great deposits of rubies, it seems, sit below the surface of Eleskar in immensely deep mines. A small placer deposit has been located here, and a truly impressive amount of the glittering gemstones retrieved. +32 Rubies, -252 Stability. Efforts to master the secrets of Standardized Texts have now been successful, and the growing amount of trained Scholars and men of wisdom will no doubt benefit the city.

Avnelin: Efforts to replant the new wheat crops from Avnelin to Sardavin have been quite successful; this golden crop of grain will no doubt fill many bellies in the years to come.

Deepkin: Northeast of northeast of Stalheim the explorers map out a gentle region of quiet plains. Sheep grass here in the shattered hills and rolling grasslands, and large flightless birds graze alongside them, bearing a glossy black plumage. There is white marble to be found here, appealing to the eye. To both north and in all other directions the plains continue. East of east of east of the city other men map out an area of shallow forests - to the north mountains rise, to the south the forest continues, and to the east arid plains of yellowing grass are noticeable. Great moose with impressive antlers are to be found here, giants compared to the horses which the Deepkin ride, and red foxes are to be found amidst the dappled deciduous forests. Aurochs also make their homes in this area, grazing on the ample foliage.

East of Forgefend the explorers turn back swiftly, having discovered barbarians lurking not far from the city in a land of thick forests and wild country. This will be a matter for the military, not these men of the vanished wilderness. In Kharbarinth men sent from the poorer quarters in a great razzia have returned with a wealth of jade, prompting many artisans to take to this lustrous stone for crafting. -198 Stability, +19 Jade. Dark magicians in the city of Stalheim have delved further into the mysteries of the Black King and the Crimson Rites, provoking unrest within the city, but paving the way for sacrificial methods to make truly unstoppable warriors. Bone-Shaping discovered. -307 Stability. In Forgefend progress has been made in understanding the shaping of Granite, how this durable stone can allow better constructions for the same amount of rock. Granite Edifices discovered. -241 Stability.

Clever magi of the City of Bells have perfected a method of power-focusing, drawing so much geomantic energy into stone that it fuses into a gem-like material, storing great sorcerous potential at the arcane forges. Central granaries have also been established, to aid with resistance against siege, and ensure none lack in the increasingly urbanized societies of the Deepkin. Extended patrols and efficiency monitoring patterns for soldiers have also been implemented by military planners, and sewers have been developed to lessen the burden of urban life.

Corvus: The explorers sent south from Cavon map a region of high mountains, bounded to the south by further peaks, by the west by thick jungles, and falling away into rolling plains to the east. Glorious birds soar and wheel above these mountains, their plumage that of the forge-fire, ascending in a feathery dance to the very apexes of the peaks to flash in vermillion hues of crimson, scarlet, and gold under the sun before descending once more. There is also native copper to be found here, and the same hot stinging vegetables their comrades have recorded elsewhere.

Men in Corvus have cut an impressive amount of tin from nearby mines in Cavon, enriching the war effort of the city, begging to be allowed into the ranks of those soon to win glory. The martial fervor gripping the city worries many, but spurs others onward. -64 Stability, +9 Cassiterite. Researchers in Rivermouth have been successful in establishing links with the Outsider that have bestowed them with an impressive ability, the power to temporarily remove their weapons from the physical plane to an extent and so cut through even the thickest armor, at a great cost to the souls of those with this strength.

Machaka: North of north of Machaka the explorers from the Republic map out a region of deep cool forests, bordered by more woodlands on all sides. The ground squirrels found in the south are also present here, alongside strange snakes the color of spider-silk who appear to burrow in the ground, and which none of the explorers prove capable of capturing. There are also impressively thick vines which resist most attempts to cut them which cling to the coniferous trees here, making movement quite difficult, and which coat the ground in chaotic mats. The other explorers sent west of the city have yet to return...

Traders have arrived in Machaka, men of pale skin, almost as white as the snow which occasionally falls when storms roll out of the north. Their eyes are a pale gray, almost ghostly, and many are afraid of them. They offer impressive weapons of what seems to be ice given physical form, and demonstrate how the weapons can chop straight through the copper armor the Machaka have seen before. In exchange they ask an extraordinary price - two hundred sons and daughters of the city, to be joined to their caravan... many say that these are demons and should be slain immediately, and there is much unrest within the city. -95 Stability.

Sorrowfree: There is dark news this year out of the sister-city of Three Brothers Town; some stragglers and desperate women, eyes empty with fear return over the mountains, reporting that a great host out of the Black City descended upon the settlement, butchering the defenders of the settlement and casting her people into chains, slaughtering many in the city square as a great offering to the fell kings which the Hesukar serve. Only few come from the disaster in the north, having escaped the hunting bands of Kraalen, and their tale is full of woe... it is unclear how devastated the city has been, but no further word comes from Three Brothers Town. Many clamor for the heads of those leaders responsible for failing to prevent this woe, for no greater disaster has befallen the Khortuun in living memory. -70 Stability.

Rivermouth: The reports from the land west of southwest are inconclusive, some men reporting great wealth of gold but bearing no examples of their finds, others that the land is a barren waste not worth exploring, and select few speaking of a nameless terror which stalks the idyllic foothills there, though when questioned they become confused and cannot repeat their impressions again, becoming agitated. Danger, perhaps, lies in this land, or riches? The soldiers sent with the explorers have not returned, and none of the explorers profess any memory of being assigned a guard.

Not all is dark though. Many men declare that a Golden Age is begun in the Rivermouth, a time of wealth, art, and great innovation. Poetry and declamations are flourishing at every corner, and the hand of every man seems to be filled with coin, purchasing whatever his heart desires. A glorious age, for the people of the River, though many of those of more stolid temperament and stoic heart warn against debauchery and frivolity and the malign maddening influence of the Outsider in this time of hedonism. -253 Stability.

Warclyfe: The scion of the Ithoi nominally agrees to an alliance against the Aun'kal, but warns that their forces are not to be under-estimated. He also demands a sign of commitment from the people of Warclyfe, to allow the priests of the All-Seeing God to preach in their streets, that the men of Lo not be deprived of the opportunity to hear the Truth of the Deeps. With a marriage alliance now concluded between the Ithoi, the Aun'kal have warned that they will not long tolerate cooperation with the slavers and evil men who inhabit the distant West. Unfortunately this growing geopolitical tension is matched by a brazen attack on Mantui, some outside force striking the settlement in the depths of the night and carrying off the slaves there with the locals none the wiser...

Scholars in the capitol have finished their study of Mathematics, and the implications are quite fine, especially for constructing arches and other edifices which might make the creation of infrastructure to benefit all straightforward for the people.

by **Pragia** » Wed May 12, 2021 5:03 pm

The council of Magisters assembled for the first time in their new meeting chamber. Where the Hall of the Magisters in the Grand Scriptorum was a simple room, clean cut stone with simple writings and of limited size, the new hall was greater in size, able to seat many magi beneath the thrones of the magisters. The seat of the Grand Magister was now a mix of wood and stone, of considerable craftsmanship and adorned with a small number of gemstones above their head. Tyraal had approved as she surveyed the assembled 49 archmagi and their 7 magisters. The Archmagi were each to, in order of their seniority under the seniority of their magister, present the texts which they had rewritten and interpreted. The Grand Magister had read all of the texts personally throughout her scholarship and would be inquiring them as to the specific language used in their texts.

This extensive project of rewriting and reviewing had many goals: The Eleskar were first and foremost a scholarly people, and as the newly founded Magisterium readies land for them to settle, they will be far from the great halls of learning. This distance will create variance from teaching. While this variance is how innovation is cultivated, it is worrisome that the writings of the past will be told and retold to the point of divergence. Thusly the Magisters took it as a chief concern to make official versions of the most important writings in the Scriptorum. This initiative had other benefits as well: the early writings of Syndra on the nature of their language would be transcribed from clay to paper, along with many similarly old pieces. Originals were, of course, kept as artifacts, but for the uses of magi to come, there would be writings that could be easily reproduced.

These new copies would be transcribed many times by each magi after receiving approval from the Grand Magister and her council unanimously. This process was mostly amicable, though on a couple occasions there was a time of impasse when two council members disagreed on the proper writing of a partially-damaged text. Such things were usually mediated, or an editorial note was added of either possibility. But over the course of the following months, the libraries of the Violet Chambers filled with the works of the ancients and of those present now. It was said that those who conducted their rituals within the halls of the new capitol were inspired to greater action, and their products greater than before.

Later, beneath the structure, the magisters would assemble for their own ritual. It was theorized by Tyraal herself that with the level of power focusing developed by her people could allow them to enact regional magics. The building itself had been constructed with cores of power stones running deep below it. This arrangement was her own discovery that by drawing from multiple power stones in formation, the effects of an arcana could be amplified to great degrees with enough practitioners. The stones would be recharged with exertions of the magi as they prepared for the first of the Grand Arcanas. By scaling the ability to understand the composition of the earth, they would project a sense over a large area of land which could inform them of what riches lay beneath the earth. This was critical to the Grand Magister, for her machinations of arcana were going to need the best gems possible to make manifest. The notions of animated stone had, for great amounts of time, eluded the Eleskar, and the comments of the Spirit-Guides had left a lasting desire in the leader that they would need tools of their own to resist the horrid constructs of Skras Tor without putting as many of their people at risk. She personally had demonstrated the ability to shape earthen elements with her magical ability, and was still writing on how to formalize such finesse to her people, but such a breakthrough would open the opportunity for the creation of stone servants.

A Different World: The Noble Cities [IC|Closed]

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