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A Spark of Armageddon - A Fantasy Medieval RP

Turn 1 - Beginnings
Hildemar, The Blue Palace
“Hail before His Majesty! Konrad of House Volkhelm, Lord of Adelford! King of Hildemar, Guardian of the Hildians!”

The court began with several peasants seeking an audience with the King, requesting aid in times of their situations in their villages. Meanwhile Robert folded his arms, trying to get a good look at him. Nothing to go off of other than the gossip he heard in the streets: brown greying hair, a simple gold circlet.

“Bless your heart your Majesty! My family and others will never forget your kindness!” A peasant shurried out of the court. Robert stepped forward, the symbol of the Divine Star above the throne. He could have sworn King Konrad raise an eye for a second, until he noticed Robert bow.

“Your Majesty, you may know me as Captain of the Saboteur. I come here to bring a relic from the continent of Numerya. I believe it tells of a terrible omen that could threaten Hildemar and others..” Robert explained before he was cut off by a thin looking man dressed in black robes.

“From Numerya? My King, he speaks blasphemy, no sane Human would travel to the Elves. Only a man seeking treasury and ruins. To speak nonsense such as this is an outright insult to this throne.” He interjected, standing beside King Konrad as people began to murmur within the crowd, questioning if a sailor was playing a game. Konrad slowly raised a hand, silencing the man. Konrad’s eyes stared.

“Continue.”

Robert carefully pulled out a relic befitting a dark omen, made out of dense bone. The object resembled a horn of some sort as Sir Frederick, Marshal of the Palace retrieved the item for Konrad. He explained the anomaly, “Dense dark bone in the isles of the continent, seasoned sailors would know this relic is not to be trifled with.” The Captain narrowed his eyes as several of the audience continued to spread doubt until the next words from his mouth.

“Several hunters and I fully believe this to be a dragon horn.”

Utter silence.

The talk of a dragon horn in this place, which would mean something horrifying if this was true. If so, this was a horrible omen. The King leaned forward, hearing his Chancellor whisper to his ear. The Chancellor marched back, observing the court as the King sighed. “Court will be adjourned for the moment.” The people were surprised the court took a sudden break, but nevertheless the commoners gossiped while they waited. Meanwhile the King headed to the back while Robert made sure to see him now that he had the chance.


Robert and Konrad walked over, staring at one another before they gave a lighthearted chuckle. Both hugged each other, good to know they weren't dead yet. Robert stared at Konrad, despite the weight gain he was still in good shape. Konrad waved off the guards to make leave, walking off while they needed to talk privately.

"Never thought I would meet Robert Lother, foolharden sailor again. How many years has it been?" The King asked, laughing.

"You flatter me your Majesty. It's been too long. But I'm here for a good reason as I explained during court." Robert stated while the King sighed.

"Yes yes I'm aware, you've made your argument in front of all these subjects. But a dragon horn? That would imply a dragon rider across Numerya, god be damned." Konrad exclaimed as he held his hands together, staring at the large Comet Star illustrated within the glass decor.

"It's not madness as you think. But we can't be too careful. A month ago I've discussed matters with Mekar, he says it's true. A great war that will spark between the Elves and Humans again." Robert explained while Konrad looked dumbfounded he referred to a familiar figure. Konrad scoffed, "Mekar and his isolated folk? Dragons have left Kazarok for centuries now, what reason should we believe they could possibly return? The folk within Hildemar be better off hearing goblins invade Hildemar for all we know."

"Consider his warning Konrad, as a trusted friend. Mekar has witnessed Everyn the Fifth attack Altheim, if he believes it'll happen again then I trust him."

"Fine whatever. But to tell you the truth, if we can beat back those damned Elves the first time, we can certainly do it again." Konrad boasted as Robert stared at the comet star, praying the Divine God for a miracle.

"These are interesting times, Konrad. I can only hope I'm wrong. For all of us..."


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The year has started off with several major powers seeking to improve relations. Although their agendas are hidden to their allies and enemies, it is agreed each faction is willing to go through all means to get what they want. During the past year, a great summer came, allowing crops to thrive and increased the world population. But sickness such as Spring Fever came, harming the commoners the most while nobility secluded themselves in their households. But this is only humble beginnings for Nasroth into a new age.

WORLD EVENTS
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New Heldon
During the Celebration of the New Year, the leader among the Undying Rose discussed the affairs of the state and while it was generally agreed their parents fulfilled the foundations needed for a new home after the Age of Despair, it wasn’t New Heldon. Not yet at least, which sparked an ambitious goal of achieving a long lasting haven for angels and their subjects. But first, they needed to extend their relations outwards. Fortunately they have already started with the Kazirians.
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- During the first course of action on their vision. Saint Elise ordered the government a call for ambassadors and several escorts to neighboring societies. Her primary intention was to ensure this would benefit New Heldon, allowing a stream of goods if successful. However, they needed to make sure traveling was safe considering several factions’ distances. Once scouts had a rough direction where to go, an ambassador was sent out to the closest, being the Kazirian Legion and Rainbow Grotto. Relations were dealt during those nations, later on New Heldon met up with Sigharis including Kislok to set up a mutual economic relationship. Eventually Natalia and the Grand Duchess of Kislok acknowledged their intentions, agreeing. Unfortunately the ambassador caravan for Heisen didn’t reach their destination due to setbacks, heading back to New Heldon.

- Although their body of land was a safe haven for Angels, out there was a different case riddled with bandits and predators. For that they needed protection starting off with a series of guards for roads and villages. To start this was to recruit half-bloods within the Fortress-Monasteries as they were better suited to being rangers than humans. The program raised up to 45 men, healthy enough for a fight. Once they knew their mission they got to work. Over the days since the program was founded, several rangers were found harassing folk for protection money, baiting people into their manipulation, cheated. Although some rangers tried their best in keeping the peace, the program started off with a lack of discipline and poor effort in the process.

- New Heldon wanted to make sure the populace knew some level of literacy, such as reading and writing. Despite the overall challenge of educating the masses, New Heldon would be in the open fields and hillsides. These lessons could also be hosted by an order. Once Heldon enacted this policy, angels were found on the outskirts of the Fortresses, enticing people basic lessons. The first day allowed several peasants asking questions about how to get white teeth despite no sugar in peasant diet, the alphabet. However the surge did not last long as activity fell, causing teachers to get one or two people each day.

- New Heldon ordered several workers to build wells for the masses and to create volunteer fire brigades. The construction efforts on the wells seemed promising until the labor force suffered material setbacks. The volunteer fire brigade are comprised of peasants with a complete lack of idea what to do in a fire situation as realized during a fire on one of the villages as one brigade took a long time putting out the fire, with the wells built improperly.

- A better system was needed to organize construction within the territory, therefore the government founded the Communal Work Rota. This workforce is to organize the unemployed who wishes to work, getting into a national pool where they are sent to areas that need more manpower. Each worker is promised three meals a day and payment for their service. Although it sounded too good to be true, peasants looking for work got to small construction jobs and maintenance. The end of the day allowed peasants small coinage even though it was little, however they were fed for the duration.

- The state began the efforts to standardize their currency and scales like coinage. The goal was to make New Heldon better not just for angels but for the masses also. Saint Elise’s action was to lower the peasant tax, slightly while raising noble tax to balance tribute. Throughout the year, the tax despite some displeasure caused the masses to live much better than they thought they would, thanking Elise for her generosity. Government spending distributed to other areas such as mage payment as they cured diseases, and peasant working. In addition the Square Market allowed people to purchase essentials than they had now.

Clan Gor’Mok
After years of wandering for a new home, an Orc Tribe of over five thousand have finally made landfall. The Tribe consisted of mostly red Orcs, greens, and blacks. Goblins assisted scavenging and scouting when the Chieftain ordered. There was also the occasional troll, one foot larger than the average Orc. A year later and the entire tribe settled in, hunting wildlife to sustain themselves at the time.
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- The Clan sent a very important mission to establish contact with their species in the land. An orc band without their fellow orcs meant danger. Gromm sent out ten scouts for the mission, bringing them enough food and water for the trip. The group went off to the west, saying goodbye to their friends and loved ones.

Gurak sat down, along with his son and wife. Nala set down the hot soup to both of them, sitting down with them. Gurak nodded, “Thank you. I heard some orcs are coming in from the homeworld, joining the tribe when they saw we made it.” He rubbed his hands, sipping on his bowl while his son Kurn stirred the soup using his finger in a circular motion. Nala shook her head, annoyed at her son.

“Sooner or later, everyone will know that we came here. It’s a bad omen, Gurak. Should we sit on our asses waiting for a miracle to happen we’d all be starving. I hope it doesn’t come to a point we have to suffer.” Nala sighed, reaching out to his hand. The couple pressed, praying to the spirits guiding their people.

“It won’t come to that. Gromm was right after all, there was a new home for us here. He’ll make sure we’ll be okay.” He assured, chowing down on his soup.

A minute later, an Orc stepped into their tent, their old friend Karth, a chewed up fish in his mouth. Karth waved at all of them, pulling the fish from his mouth so he could speak. “Hello there Gurak, Nala, little Kurn.” Karth waved at all of them, Gurak’s eyes rolled at the sight of him. Gurak turned to his brother, making a half effort wave as Karth stood, a frown on his face. “What’s going on?” Gurak asked.

“The Chief needs a few men to check if we’re not alone outside the home. He wants at least six to go out there.”

“That many?” Gurak narrowed his eyes, arms folded.

“Strength in numbers he said. We don’t know what’s really out there to get cocky. Bring your axe, you’re coming with us.” Gurak sighed harshly, juggling between eating and having to speak to his wife about the news. Nala heard the job Gurak needed to do with Karth, a risk she didn’t like at all for him. There was an awkward silence with the exception of little Kurn clapping his hands together happily. Gurak looked at Nala in the eye, shooting a weak smile.

“I’m sure it’s nothing to be worried about. Six people is enough to keep each other safe. So don’t worry okay?” Gurak said to Nala, who nodded in response still skeptical. Gurak finished up his meal, heading to his room where he found an axe his father crafted for him called Bloodthirster. The orc said goodbye to his wife, giving a pat on the head to little Kurn. He left the hut, ready to meet up with the pack.



Gurak and Karth walked to a band of orcs who looked like they were ready to head out there, weapons ready. There was a large male wearing a thick pelt over his head. There was a large bear with him, laying down on the grass while the orc beastmaster turned to them. Gurak raised a fist up, nodding. “Beastmaster. You leading the hunt?” Gurak asked, receiving a nod from the man. Karth raised an eyebrow, inspecting the orc.

“You got a name or something?” Karth asked.

“Karrog.” The Beastmaster answered bluntly, staring at both of them with nothing else to say. The two brother shrugged it off, meeting some of the others who were on the scouting. A black orc cracked his knuckles, shirtless and riddled with scars. Gurak chuckled, recognizing the man.

“Well if it isn’t Morden the Shredder. I imagine they would send someone like you in the wilds.”

Karth stepped towards the scarred orc, “You know this man?”

“More than I should. You’ll find out why.” Gurak remarked, earning a glare from Morden himself. Behind the black orc was a green orc, female and stood upright unlike the others wielding a spear. Gurak tilted his head, not recognizing the woman. The female turned to the brothers, exhaling through her nostrils, curious.

“Don’t recognize you. Who are you called?” Gurak asked, staring at the protection leather she had on, adorn with tribal jewelry made out of bone.

“Kerin. Yours red warrior? Her eyes flickered elsewhere, sharpening the spear tip.

“Gurak, and that’s my brother Karth. You ready to find out what’s out there?” Kerin let out a weak chuckle,

“You know it.” Kerin said, as all of them saw Karrog stepping close. The Beastmaster and its companion were ready to head out there, packing food and water. “We leave now before night comes.” Karrog said bluntly.



The scouts made camp, setting up bed skins on the grass recklessly. Morden built the fire pit, collecting stones and wood sticks to fuel the upcoming flames while Kerin explored the area for small prey. Krogg pulled out left over raw meat for Kova, tossing it to her as she gnawed down on it. Gurak sat down watching Morden spark the flame that quickly turned into a consistent fire for all of them. Krogg and his companion isolated himself, moving to a corner where the others went closer to the pit.

“Here we are, in the new land for our families. Away from winter and other dangers.” Karth cheered, raising a drink to his newfound acquaintances who showed no such excitement.

“Are you the funny man people talk about at home?” Kerin asked, curious while Karth narrowed his eyes. “Who wants to know? I like to talk a lot in case people haven’t noticed.” Karth explained. Morden gave a deep growl at Karth, cracking his knuckles while he heard.

“You remind me of those idiots who like to think we can all just get along and stick together. Back at the old homeworld I used to gut people like you in my clan. They don’t know when to shut up and fight before the enemy got to the homes.” Morden said while Karth leaned forward, pissed off.

“You betrayed your own clan? Do you have no shame upon your own brothers and sisters?!” Karth called out raising his voice while Gurak and Kerin observed the escalation.

“Watch it funny man, you’re one word away before I turn you into the joke.” Morden warned.

“Enough both of you! We are all here for a new upbringing, to get a new start, unlike the old world. We’ve all seen the frost spiders and our own flesh killing each other for a share of land. I’ve seen my own tempted by dark spirits, straying from the good life and resorted to killing children and mincing corpses into horrors. But now we are here. If we want to survive, let’s focus on rebuilding first.” Gurak stated, giving a harsh sigh until the only sound was the fire burning.

Then a sound came.

All of them raised their weapons out of instinct. Karrog raised a torch, Kova on the defensive. At first they thought those were animals moving outside of their camp but at closer view, it was humanoid movement. The pack waited for a response but they still couldn’t see who was that in the distance other than small lights. A minute later, another torch came into their zone, a large red humanoid who wore makeshift armor. The humanoid stepped forward, male and a set of dreadlocks on his head. It was actually another Orc carrying a torch.

“Hello.” The red orc greeted.

...

To the tribe, it felt like months for their scouts to get back. But one day, all six of them arrived with supplies and tools to help out their people. During their exploration they were founded by a tribe named Gandan, another group of orcs who arrived in Kazarok a while ago. One thing's for sure, they were definitely not alone in the world.

- After the group of scouts returned, this opened up a discussion for the Clan to think about train their young ones should an assault occur. Their Shamanism also encouraged this to make sure the young ones would become great orcs after their ancestors. With no surprise, many families agreed to teach their children hunting and animal tracking with good success, bringing food to the piles. .

- The next step was settling down the tribe after realizing they were not alone in the world. With the success of orc families training their children how to hunt, teaching them how to handle themselves in a fight was essential. The training started with orc boys struggling to hold their axes up, missing the mark in the bow. It would take a while before the next fighters would improve significantly.

- Wolf riders rode large wolves in battle, using spears and bows for weapons. The large wolf also known as the Winterwulf came from the north where Clan Gor’Mok used to live in. Several riders were ordered by Gromm to breed more to increase numbers. The few months led to female winterwulfs paired up with male mates. Thankfully orcs took care of mates by feeding them meat, allowing wulfs to give birth to litters as the year ended.

- The final month marked a celebration with the Clan surviving the year. Of course this meant new responsibilities and some order around here. Gromm established a policy that proclaimed everyone is given a share so long as they work. For the most part everyone agreed, with a few bitter opportunists hiding their agendas. Gor’mok built a granary, food gathered slowly.

Rainbow Grotto
The town of Rainbow Grotto was developing at an agreeable pace, causing more humans to enter than the average gnome migrant. However gnomes are not known for their militaristic and serious nature. The town hoped to make some major improvements before the state itself collapsed on its own weight hotboxing. After all, recreative drugs aren’t known for keeping people safe.
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- Rainbow Grotto sent out impromptu diplomats to neighboring villages and towns outside of their territory. The goal was to establish a confederation of sorts to protect each other in times of need from invasion. Grotto offered protection through the thieves guild and the Rainbow Guard as an incentive, but the entire offer was met with total skepticism if not outright disdain from the villagers. The offer later faded as if the topic never happened again.

- Although their diplomatic offer was a failure, Rainbow Grotto still needed more protection to secure their borders. The solution was simple: Expand the Rainbow Guard and make sure they’re protecting roads and civilians on their patrols. If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it. With costs being a non-issue at the moment, the town sent a call to every body available. Their efforts finally came fruitful as they hired up to 269 locals in the span of the year. Guardsmen performed their job escorting caravans in and out of the realm, getting paid for their services.

- Grotto’s mages are specialized in transmutation, the ability to alter objects at the cost of materials and time. Despite their insufficient resources to build an actual school of magic, that didn’t stop the gnomes from setting up something similar. The school would be called the Academy of Alchemy, the gnomes setting it up in an abandoned shack. Hopeful student came occasionally came by to learn incantations and the concept of formulas. While it wasn’t a major breakthrough in teaching, it was certainly a start for the makeshift school. Magic and teaching takes time, if you rush it, you get someone killed, if you do it right, everything will be alright.

- As Grotto established their makeshift school the only way to top it off was a makeshift library they started constructing. The purpose like any other library was to store encrypted books and let scholars check them out. Since Grotto’s not known for public safety, the staff are expected to watch suspicious members. Of course they were right about suspicion as the construction lit on fire for an unknown reason causing a major setback. Rumors spread over the town, causing some folks to believe it was arson.

- Even though the good ol library construction didn’t work out as planned, Rainbow Grotto needed some form of direction around. They started placing milestones, signs and dirt roads for ease of travel towards the town. Thankfully, nothing really happened during those few weeks, leaving travellers to pass through town thanks to the directions.

- To increase their revenues, the Gnomes built buildings such as breweries, apiaries, and taverns for businessmen to rest up. The special commodities they even advertised was booze, honey, sweet honey, booze honey, nut honey, booze made out of honey. If they could make it, they would make it. Supply and demand made sure the local businesses made a pretty penny out of merchants and travellers in the process.

Northlin
Northlin needed to make sure they reinforced their military before any other goblins had a wise idea to tack on Kard of Old. Goblins despite their flaws, usually stick together because they had to. If they didn’t, their society will collapse under their own weight. Yet Northlin had a plan to avoid this from happening as Kard planned his actions.
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- The first order of business was to make sure who was in charge. Northlin announced the wildlands around their area are to either join or by compulsion. The response was immediately backed by pure outrage because of these demands. However, before anything turned into an utter disaster, Old Kard’s talent allowed him to curb any potential riot into the ground. He’d have to try again and plead his case, otherwise the other goblins won’t play so nice next time.

- Of course they didn’t, as bad luck had found itself. The Northlin’s army was instructed to tame their surrounding lands and bring the greenskins under their Kard’s control. They didn’t like the control part too well as a few goblins found out when greenskins placed their heads on pikes. They tried to take non-greens as slaves but that proved counterproductive when the humans resisted. Northlin attempted to find more manpower for his army but it never came during the search. It’s a good thing Goblins are pretty expendable.

- Kard was a bit obsessive with trolls as he wanted to use blood magic in order to supersize them for his army. Since he had blood shamans and luck had finally eased up, they found out trolls get bigger with age but the problem was they suffered health problems such as poor sight and a slow heart. The blood shamans sacrificed two animals to test out their theory on a troll, seeing if it would change if they accelerated its blood. And believe it or not it worked, with two animals harmed in the making of this theory.

- Northlin goblins are told to organize camps to bring slaves in, meanwhile Kard ordered his men to collect metal for weapons. Northlin gathering slaves was important for goblin society as it gave them power over others and the need to exert dominance as they did finding commoners for their “voluntary” workforces. However a few slaves escaped and the search for metal came up little with goblins carrying a small number of scrap.

- With their recent discovery, this led to another problem as trolls are very gluttonous people. A good society is a well fed society as some Orc clans found out herding human livestock. Northlin started herding as many animals as they could such as cowbaffo and red pigs but the livestock suffered a large shortage, causing some of their trolls to starve and go on frenzies. But eventually the frenzies stopped, leaving some rebuilding to do.

Everynia
The state of Everynia was presumably named after Everyn The Hero, a Melgaeron who united the petty kingdoms and created the Adelram Empire. This faction is led by the free people who swear fealty to neither king nor nobility. The state was therefore a direct democracy.
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- The population of Everynia was dense with farmers and laborers, but the reality is that nearly all of them were peasan-commoners who had no experience ruling before. To upstart security was to build wooden watchtowers five miles away north and south to the dirt road leading to Everyn’s Road. Guarded by a force of ten men at arms, and ten archers this would allow forty horsemen to escort travellers into Everyn’s Road. The construction started with dozens using lumber to build their towers, taking at least a month until they were finished completely with extra help from the newly arrived engineers for the state. The horsemen proceeded doing their jobs, escorting pedestrians to Everyn’s Road.

- Basic literacy was considered rare in a land such as Everynia and some people hoped to fix that. Everynia hired tutors to try to teach reading to the people but the attempt came up short as the tutors persuasion left no potential learners at all. An effort building road signs to help travellers resulted in hooligans vandalizing the property, annoying the people.

- Despite the setback on education, Everynia still had a good start in keeping order around their borders. The state nevertheless wanted to find limestone sources to mass pile resources in case they discovered old inventions such as concrete roads or buildings but as of now, it was still early for them. Scouts and miners tracked sources in shallow water areas, finding adequate amounts for other projects in mind.

- With the success of finding adequate limestone, ambitious entrepreneurs arrived to help out the Everynia in the hopes of opening up new businesses. The government in addition opened up treasury loans to these entrepreneurs. However they must go through an application process by majority rule while being watched by the keepers if they are approved. Several entrepreneurs agree without question at the policy, allowing keepers to watch over them and commit to community service should they fail to pay back the loan.

- Everynia has enacted a 'quid pro quo' policy regarding the College of Middburg. In exchange however, each mage is obligated to train 10 men-at-arms in case of magic attack on their people for each of the arcane schools involved. Although the College of Middburg had no knowledge of the areas in Everynia, they were at least happy enough to teach the people what to look out for. The terms were made, the deal expires in 5 years as Everynia was also obligated to turn any magical contraband to the College.

Korkari Confederacy
The Korkari are tribes ruled by the High Lordship of Dontos Estley. As history has told the Korkari’s origins were separate tribes before the Empire was formed by Everyn Melgaeron. In reality you might as well call them the first line of defense against the horrors that invade Human territory. They’re similar to the Borghildr as they’re a hardened people that serves to protect their homes because they have to. Empire, horde, invasion. That never stopped from a man going out on his own terms before.
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- The Korkari Mining industry seeks out another deposit of minerals to create new jobs. The miners were hoping they would find another set of iron and silver and as luck would have it, they did. During a work day, a set of scouting has led to a large deposit of iron and silver ready to be mined. By the end of Apri, a mine was founded in order to extract these resources.

- The general army of the Korkari was organized into militias led by tribe leaders. To increase the quality of the militias, the leader of the Korkari enacted weapon shipments when supplying conscripted peasants and militia. But tragedy struck as these weapon shipments the lords promised lacked quality and eventually frustrated the commoners, citing them to protest for better equipment for defending their homes.

- Being a primary based economy, the land itself lacked sizable towns and lands with only three urban towns. Dontos ordered iron smelteries for the metals their miners found on duty, making sure they were made into refined goods for their stores in their towns. The bad news was the construction went extremely slow even for the Korkari standards.

- The good news has arrived however despite the iron smelteries. Dontos Estley authorized the construction of a new canal that would help transport resources to foothills, to the towns, to the villages, to your mother’s house etc. Ease of mind was the intention. And thankfully they learned from their mistakes as labor managed to start construction on the canal.

- With the threat of orc and goblin invasion looming from the north, the Korkari wanted to secure a trade delegation between Brimnir hoping to establish a defensive pact. Three tribal leaders along with Meric Estley were sent there to meet up with the Dwarves. Of course like any beneficial relationship, someone had to pay up the tribute. Brimnir’s King was clearly interested in a defensive pact however, he needed to be sure the Korkari would pay their end of the deal otherwise the Dwarves are going to left empty handed.

- In addition to negotiating a trade with Brimnir, Dontos has ordered 100 freeriders to march north, divided into 4 equal groups of 25. The command was a scouting purpose to make sure there’s no creatures preparing to invade their land, reporting it back to the mainland if there was. The scouting trip had a slow pace at first but the freerider learned to shrug it off like true Korkari men and get the job done. The 100 freeriders stood by, waiting in case of anyone dared to step in.

Kingdom of Brotinnstao
The Kingdom of Brotinnstao was a sea power, protected by its navy along with elite trained soldiers in the isles. Although the Elven Kingdoms have seen better days since Emperor Everyn V’s invasion, the Elves have survived, surely to regain their losses. Brotinnstao like other Elves are more advanced than human civilizations, enjoying the luxuries such as paper and better equipment. But I’ve witnessed Elves before and there’s nothing more telling than the fact they love to boast about their achievements. These interesting times will truly tell if Brotinnstao will stand the test of time, so I shall see.
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- An important aspect of mastering the seas is to extend your presence before others can. Brotinnstao’s mission was to make as many friends as possible. If you don’t, you’d sunk. The first mission was to head towards Iguria, lizardmen whose intentions are not known to Numerya. A small expedition traveled there during the year, the Leader of Iguria Sion although skeptical agreed on a trade agreement, offering valuable skins and exotic animals like the rare tuco bird that camouflages around its environment.

- After a successful trade agreement with Igura, the expedition’s mission was not over yet. The continent of Mesados is a diverse place filled with exotic creatures and unknown resources. They proceeded to the north, meeting the people of Cythia. Not knowing what to expect, the expedition encountered boats on fish hunting. On foot, they were greeted by females dressed in armor at least 5’10 tall on average. These women greeted them with skepticism and despite the expedition’s offers on a lucrative trade agreement the Cythian warriors weren’t looking for a trade deal at the moment. The female warriors allowed the expedition to rest and move on in the morning.

- The expedition’s final mission was to head to Borghildr, which immediately earned some concern within the Elven crew. But alas such was the order of the Kingdom, moving up on Borghildr’s shores to make a trade deal despite relations between both races. The expedition at the meeting point assured it was by all means business, not personal as some kingdoms would take it. The King of Borghildr took their words into consideration, harboring no ill will despite history. With that said, the Kingdom wasn’t interested in a trade at the moment. Once more the expedition moved on, returning home.

- The entire Kingdom has passed a law that introduces mandatory sunday school through the Innleystic churches. Elven children are expected to learn how to read and write, including the commoners. The sudden law although noble has caused somewhat of difficulty as kids are learning the skill at a slow pace.

- The state of affairs in Brotinnstao called for their mages to perform services throughout the capital. The first action is the Magus of Dawn helping out the population with simple magic spells such as water purification and healing without overexerting themselves. The Magus’s appentiences also took notes in mind, allowing them to know that purity and selflessness is key. It was said the more you utilize White Magic, the more you feel the need to help out others in contrast using Black Magic for selfish reasons. Such a philosophy the Magus stressed inspired the people on learning responsibility.

- Several officials in the territories made sure to register all forms of properties in the kingdom in order to keep tabs on buildings. A major reason was to sell any vacant property to merchants and manufacturers for production of goods. The Kingdom would hope to sway potential buyers with a discount 1/6th of the original price. The issue in reality was the amount of property officials needed to register over the year

Mallen-Tol
Mallen-Tol’s strategy was different than other Dwarven Kingdoms in that they wanted to expand outwards and make friends. While kingdoms like Brimnir were content on staying underground, the High Regnant needed to insure they carved a mighty legacy for them/himself. And what better way to do that making a few friends to watch your back?
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- Mallen-Tol’s interest in foreign policy has only grown with the High Regnant, who wishes to play a hand in foreign affairs. A caravan emissary is sent towards Sigharis, witnessing human subjects going about their daily lives said to pay a blood tax in exchange for better living conditions. While Natalia initially wasn’t interested in dealing with Mallen-Tol, their skill in diplomacy and their negotiation assured her they weren’t a threat to her kingdom. The Dwarves and the Vampires in Sigharis has allowed relations should important things come up but at the moment, there was no further need.

- General reforms are called upon for the Mallen-Tol, starting with a charter to create a city guard at Dain Frostforge’s suggestion. The city guard would be called the Khazermallen, armed with short axes and at least 120 recruited. The 120 are comprised of the middle class with few from peasantry, policed by Duergor's office. The Khazermallen patrol the city with ease, with the occasional crime dealt with.

- To feed more water efficiently, Mallen-Tol has ordered aqueducts for underground fisheries and cisterns. The Dwarves were more than prepared to deal with the workload, sending their brightest engineers for the job and made a plan how they were going to finish it. The Engineers piped drinking water in the squares of the city while the fisheries are maintained by the Husbandry Guild. Over the course of the year the dwarves did a pretty good job at setting their systems without any problems. A bit too well when the fishermen grew enough members to apply for their own guild, taking some of the slice.

- Mallen-Tol in the wake of reforms adopts a new coinage currency for the kingdom, in the shape of squares with rounded corners. 1 gold Tollian = 2 Butollian = 20 silver Silfurs = 40 Semsilfurs = 100 bronze Buffgravels = 400 copper Buffgrains. The currency was immediately used during the year, allowing citizens to recognize these coins and use them.

- Because of economic purpose any Dwarven citizen who wishes to do commerce or trade without a Council of Guilds charter is forbidden to leave the Kingdom. This was met with harsh criticism from the vocal dwarves who’d prefer the economic freedom than some caravan system for a very specific reason. These trade armies called Khazerthruns are supposed to be armed for a good cause but those vocal dwarves weren’t having it and since when did dwarves ever not put up an argument before?

- Despite the vocal criticism, the Council of Guilds weren’t backing down on their decision as they created an open charter for people to sign on to Middburg. The High Regnant’s special request was to find any historical artifacts of magical origin. The Khazerthrun made their long trip towards Middburg probably because they heard they had a magical college in the city so go figure. Now, historical artifacts of magical origin don’t grow on trees, usually back then they were crafted by craftsmen and mages for a specific reason like enchanting a weapon for example. Now what they would call this enchanting object was a rune stone, a magical object that can make an object very durable and provide spiritual energy for the wielder. What kind of energy? I don’t fucking know. All I’m aware about is that they’re very expensive and rare to find nowadays. But nonetheless the Khazerthrun paid very good currency to get their hands on the thing.

Kazirian Legion
The Legion was an up and coming sellsword company committed to professionalism and siege warfare. Comprised of over a thousand half elves with their own equipment and skills they’ve been trying to hone over the years. There are two types of sellswords in the world, one who cares about their reputation and one who doesn’t care about their reputation. In a world where which lord has the biggest armies it’s a competition to see which company is going to reap the biggest contract in a war. Fame climbs, mediocrity sinks. In a way, a contract is like dog fighting, which dog’s the biggest and which owner’s going to win the battle in the end? Not the pup that’s for sure.
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- In order to hone their skills for upcoming contracts, Kazirian mercs are ordered to go through training exercises. But disaster strikes as a strange flu has caused many men and women to go ill during the year, delaying their training. Some merchants from their home villages wandered in the stronghold, having experience in this before. They called it ‘Spring Fever’ a sickness that comes home to home and causing mysterious illness, leaving some to die if not taken care of. Fortunately as the year ended, the Fever disappeared leaving no casualties on the Legion’s end. However, because of the sickness, no training improved any skill.

- But the Legion’s struggles weren’t over as during their progress a scouting party was ordered to explore the south-eastern river and to secure the area. But before the Fifteen had any reports sent through their messengers, the entire scouting party disappeared off the radar. Despite rescue efforts to find out what happened, the scouting party of three was never seen again.

- To increase the quality of troops Kazirians were asked to read and write. Now, passing information down through word of mouth? That’s easy because it’s called murmuring . Reading and writing? Not so much when you’re in a band of sellswords. And unfortunately they hit a stump on their journey to literacy when the sellswords complained about the usefulness on the topic. And even if some mercs agreed to it, the learning process caused them to struggle, not to mention there was more work to be done than writing the alphabet.

- On the other hand, map navigation? That’s useful. The company attempted to teach new recruits navigation including military tactics like their siege specialty to train their army. But new recruits in any military take time as the veterans would witness again as the recruits are too stubborn to learn anything nowadays.

- With the newly arrived engineers here to help the company, they are ordered to find out if a water mill was possible. But thankfully enough it was geographically possible to plan a water mill there close. Their efforts have led to an early construction plan should they ever build one.

- Because the Legionnaires have families within the stronghold, the idea of insuring some form of payment to family members wasn’t a bad idea. The proposal is that a dead merc’s relative was to receive compensation in small coin from the treasury and soon enough everyone agreed despite several who disagreed.

Republic of Acrad
Acrad was founded 1500 years ago by the surviving Elven of the Ancient Kaz'Rael and the great proto-kazarok migrations. Human and Elven together? Not an impossible idea according to their history. Unfortunately the nation state is constantly suffering from the harsh desert of Kaz'Rael and raiding parties. Only this republic can try to restore it to its old state.
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- During the year, the republic set their eyes towards the Kingdom of Brotinnstao. They approved a diplomatic mission to meet up with the Kingdom and to propose a non-aggression pact dubbed the Acradian-Elven Sea Pact. The aim was to secure the trade in the western seas and conducting anti-piracy raids and patrols in order to bolster both nations prosperity and sea territory. The proposal is open for negotiation from the elven parts, should they wish to slightly modify any terms or objectives, within acceptable conditions and in the spirit of good will.

- In a devious yet complex plan the High General and the High Councilor have devised a way to upset the unclaimed region between Acrad and Borghildr. The covert mission was simple, disrupt the villages way of life by disguising themselves as Borghilder people. The disguised men lit up the forestry, leaving a wake of panicking villagers and raided mines in the process. The false flag mission was a work of brilliance and success with a little bit of luck on their side. The villagers grew uncivil and wanted retribution on the Borghildr people, citing them as barbarians.

- In a power move, the magistrates have passed a law that would dwell into the research of ancient elven relics from the ruins of Az'Karel. Because of passing this law, the Church of His Holyness was outraged such a forbidden thing is now allowed. Because of this act has caused the Church to rally under the religious people armed with torches, protesting due to the study of this heresy. The protests stay during the year, pouring over to the next as it grows more uncivil and restless.

- To oversee their operations over the trade route and to patrol their shores, the Admirality has ordered ships to establish outposts in the nearby isles. Two convoys as a start made sure to explore the nearest islands in the sea channel, setting up small buildings as their HQ.

- During the year Acrad had passed the "Citizenship Construction Act" ratified by the High Councilor. The act’s purpose is to prevent strain on the economy and to forbid slaves as a workforce in construction. This means patrons and companies are forced to use paid labor of citizens to work on any construction project in Acrad. Although the act hoped to build jobs for civilians, the action itself caused a large amount of criticism from the wealthy, leading them to either not obey with the act or pay laborers less than expected to save money.

The Principality of Cephalonia
Cephalonia serves to call itself the true successor to the Adelram Empire and the current leader claims to be a part of the Stormstrum Dynasty, related to the Melgaerons for their bastard blood. Now is he telling the truth? I wouldn’t know. But Cephalonia’s ambition is quite admirable in these dark times.
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- Calling upon allies was a difficult challenge as not everyone expects to bow to an Emperor, such was the case of the diplomatic mission to Borghildr. The envoys of the Emperor was sent to the kingdom itself to discuss an offer towards the Borghildr if they can recruit men-at-arms for the Emperor's Skallargian Guard. The King of Borghildr heard every word and even though they were clearly good at diplomacy, a King does not bow to an Emperor. With no choice the envoys was sent away, then later an individual by the name of Juran Blackmont came towards them. He claimed to be the leader of the Brotherhood of Vultures and would swear service and his men should the Cephalonia promise them riches in return. Eventually, the Brotherhood of Vultures participated in the deal.

- The Emperor’s army was ordered to construct a long dirt road hugging the river Vesuvio to the hinterlands of Cephalonia to the capital. The propose is to ensure safe travel and easy directions for the peasantry. Although there was an initial setback regarding construction, the newly arrived engineers solved the problem helming the project. The work schedule resumes as laborers and the engineers build the road.

- Despite their lack of knowledge of a fully realized school, that didn’t stop construction from happening. Next to the grand cathedral of Aragos is where the makeshift school will be made for students who wish to learn. The Engineers get a headstart, working on the constructions with all the materials they had on site.

- To collect tariffs more efficiently, Cephalonia is setting up toll booths combined with inventory checks in the road networks. This will also forbid illegal sales within major centers of trade and soon enough, the moment these wooden booths were established the rules were enforced. The move caused an influx of merchants heading to trade center conducting business as people went along their day while the toll booths worked perfectly.

- Meanwhile the Emperor has ordered the construction of three outer walls: The Andronikos' wall, the second housing battlements and a third enclosing the moat for attackers. Like their makeshift school, the Engineers got to work on these walls, allowing for a slow but steady pace as they suffered no issues during the year.

- A tax on imported luxury goods such as silk and ivory is set for the Empire. The intention was to bring in large revenues but leaving to affect the wealthy who buys these goods. This leaves a sour mood among the nobility as the increase in price causes several to resort through illegal means.

Mertidol
Mertidol is far away from Kazarok civilization and near the continent of I can’t tell you because I haven’t been there myself. The Paere are experiencing an upheaval of philosophy and the desire to educate themselves, isolated. Frankly, I don’t blame them when other humans are fighting over material goods.
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- Looking towards to the outside world, eventually they all knew they needed to cooperate with their fellow sprightes. The government reached out to the minority groups to reconfirm Octopon's authority over the island. But the other groups weren’t so interested in the whole cooperation thing. The groups eventually went to their daily routines, dismissing Mertidol’s cooperation offer.

- The Paere after the failure of reuniting their other groups sought out another way. During their time thinking about whatever Paere do, they remembered the Horte had a knack of taming wildlife that can take them beyond the isles and into the near continent. They send out scouts to find where the coastal clan might be, asking around and looking at trails. Eventually they made a breakthrough when one of the locals talked about a bunch of Horte nearby.

- Worrying about their safety the government needed to make sure things don’t go down flames as I would say. Therefore they passed a motion to raise more warriors for Mertidol and so they did. The majority of Mertidol agreed their force reached a new low record, encouraging their fellow Paere to protect their people. Their efforts weren’t in vain as they quickly raised up to 100 Paere warriors in the process.

- Mertidol people consider mythology and philosophy very important nowadays and when you start to think about it, mythos and social constructs don’t spawn out of nowhere. It all comes down to history as a Human scholar would scribe it like. When we ask a lot of questions about why is it so? It’s because people tend to fill in the blanks with their own theories. Did some foolish jester accidently create the Divine God because someone asked why was the sky blue? Well, the Paere wanted to further education because they relied on memories to do the work for them, but motivation demanded change! The government encouraged education for the youth, leaving a few inspired students to found an early archive of some sorts.

- With the introduction of education came the interest in magic. The Paere looked at magic at a basic view and to be fair that’s usually the common thought in Kazarok itself. Sometimes a commoner asks me how can I, a poor jester barely able to afford a cup of ale create fire at my own fingertips? Well the simple answer is through training and learning. And that’s the first step Mertidol was going to figure out as a few air mages learned. The air mages quickly came on to the fact by utilizing the air, they weren’t creating air themselves, but they were harnessing their surroundings to use the air. Winds allow air to move, and the stronger the wind, the more an air user has an advantage.

- Meridol had to admit their roads and infrastructure had seen better days as time went by. Time is undefeatable unfortunately but the Faere began to investigate if reconstruction efforts was possible. While it was certainly doable, the damage within the paths and roads left it extremely damaged, taking large amounts of the Paere’s time if they wanted to repair it or even start all over from scratch.

Riflheim
Riflheim, said to trace its origins from the Adelram Empire like Hildemar. Von Rosen-Bilderbung ruled the province for centuries, prideful that their cities were the brightest. But pride pays a heavy price as Riflheim is a shadow of its former glory. Can William the Black do what it takes to turn the tide? We’ll have to see.
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- The first thing Riflheim did to help out their own is to extend a hand to their own. Consider Hildemar an ally most states would die for having a friend. A diplomat of Riflheim traveled miles to the kingdom, pleading his case why a trade was so important in the long run of things. Threat of invasion, former province of Adelram, maintaining army? Checks out for Hildemar as they agreed to let them set up an embassy for economical purposes.

- There’s a lot of up and coming states building schools and universities, institutions. But you need a large number of people to care if it’ll even benefit their petty self interests. Riflheim attempted to establish a college of learning starting with an air mage and a fire mage. Sounds easy right? Wrong. It all started with their bright engineers attempted to figure out what would they need in this college. The cost itself to this was expensive to the point people were wondering if this project will start. Eventually the construction got off but extremely slow despite the engineer efforts. But in due time, as they made a break as the year ended.

- Speaking of extremely slow, Riflheim wanted to rebuild their broken water systems throughout their city of the century. They started work on the aqueducts and the plumbing but during there was a lack of progress going around with construction. Workers feel demotivated at the lack of organization and dying commoners wandering. It left a foul taste among the engineers as much as they tried, lifting the workload by a small margin.

- With the need for organization and order, Riflheim ordered their bureaucracy to expand. The first expansion was the tax collection bureau to record tribute/tax within the city. Unlike the construction jobs, the expansion went smoothly allowing Riflheim to make sure its citizens were paying their taxes. Their next focus was to look at local businesses.

- To provide an incentive for farmers to increase crop yields, the state was allowing very low-interest loans but the idea worried commoners. But nonetheless some farmers applied, but the returns in investment wasn’t what Riflheim was expecting. Crop yields themselves weren’t rising and so far no one knew what where was the currency going towards? And then it turns out the farmers were spending it on tits and wine than their farms. To be honest, who wouldn’t?

- In what seemed to be a very rough year for the state. A hope spot had arrived in the form of material goods the miners extracted in the old empire mines. These workers hit the major jackpot as they found a large deposit of silver and coal which can easily be sold in the markets.

Courgeaux
Like Riflheim, Courgeaux was considered part of the Adelram Empire but the Silvain I made sure he took matters into his own hands from here on. With the control of a port city, he controlled the trade routes and who was allowed to sell. But that only meant more responsibility on handling piracy, dealing with wood elves, and making sure the commoners paid tribute.
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- Courgeaux is considered what some of the locals there call cousins to the Bastien Kingdom. Being diplomats at heart and with a little silver of luck, the King managed to sway his firstborn daughter Solange d'Lavigne to the court of King Loren himself. Though this wasn’t courtly love of the sort but rather courtly partnership. A lord arranges a political marriage, gives a daughter to a charming prince. Forges a pretty good marriage pact between the lordships.

- As I said before, Courgeaux had the unfortunate responsibility of dealing with elves at first hand. The Wood Elves while not malicious in nature, have a long track record of thievery and harassment. The Kingdom recognized these problems and had an idea that would act as a win-win scenario for both. The same protection you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours thing everyone uses. They’re also called favors. The Kingdom sent their glorious knights riding their horses to project the idea they’re here to help out the people for the people. And soon enough they accepted because it was better than to get help than get attacked. Now, when it comes to peasantry and your life is dictated by the dangers of rapists, thieves, monsters all you gotta do is swear fealty to your new best friend, the King of the Kingdom! Now a King isn’t so bad, all they ask in return is to send lots of food, go to war and get killed, completely oblivious to your daily needs, and quarter troops in your home while being at the bottom of society. Ain’t life completely fucked up?

- The lords of Courgeaux are given sanctions now that the frontiers were open for business. This led to many colonizations efforts become officially part of the kingdom itself. The effort went as smooth as butter, with no issues at hand.

- In the process, this allowed for new knights and reinforcement of their properties now that the frontiers became an occurrence in the year. These knights gathered as much men-at-arms as possible but the result was less fruitful than they hoped.

- Meanwhile, King Silvain allowed the master of coin to direct trade families to do what they did best, commit business in parts of the city while competing with Bastien to see which one was going to last. While the trade contracts were increasing, this still wasn’t enough to drive Bastia off the trading game.

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The Unknown Place
The hooded figure walked towards Laughing Jack, observing him juggle flaming oranges in the air. But once his attention turned to the hooded individual his act failed, dropping the oranges on the floor. Jack sighed, shrugging it off before he greeted her.

“Ah. Hello again, back for more I suppose? Now that we got through the basics of magic, it’s time we start learning about the real politics of Kazarok. Let’s start off with what everyone knows by now, the Adelram Empire. Now I know what you’re thinking, you know all about this stuff. But what if someone quizzes you on who founded the Empire in the first place? If you’re going to imitate your role model, start listening.” Jack pointed out, sitting on a wooden chair adjusting his posture to play the lute.

“Now let’s hear what this sounds like.”

As you know by now before the Empire, were petty kingdoms and tribes who fought over for land and gold in the center of Kazarok. To the north was a sprawling Orc/Goblin invasion that completely infested the area, pitting slave trades and human sacrifices. The number one greatest danger to a society is not knowing what’s hurting the society, when humans fight each other you think hordes give a damn? I don’t think so.

Fortunately, that all changed when a man named Everyn Melgaeron took matters into his own hands. Everyn used to rule in the west region of Kazarok alongside his sister-wife Velena Melgaeron. When the series of orc invasions threatened Human and Dwarven society, someone had to step in.

The Melgaerons forged an alliance between the Humans and the Dwarven Kingdoms, putting a stop to the invasions and repelled them all. The military achievements they’ve made such as Everyn’s Road took them ten winters. The commoners called him Everyn the Hero, Everyn the Uniter. He then founded the Adelram Empire within the center of Kazarok, he called the capital Kazmura. Ever since its foundation, the city thrived with tourism and experienced a population boom. Many civilians considered it to be one of the greatest cities in all of Nasroth, making Elven kingdoms envy the craftsmanship.

Now children ask all the time what was living in the Empire like that was so different from other kingdoms? Well clean water for starters, their religion believed everyone was loved by the Divine God and if they recited his teachings, they will be saved for eternity. The Empire had this magical steel they would use for weapons on the battlefield secretly crafted. And get this, gender was no object. How? Well magic and Melgaeron tradition with a little convincing on priests make good equalizers.

His sister Velena established the Knights of the Divine, she was more used to warfare than ladyship if you hadn’t noticed by now. The impact the Knights had on the continent inspired knighthood to rise among independent kingdoms who worshipped the Divine God. Orders like these were prestigious enough this was seen as a commoner's only way to fame and glory. How granting knighthood worked was any knight or royal could bestow the title Ser upon a squire. Thankfully, there are few accounts of the playful knight granting knighthood upon a drunken peasant or his own horse.

Everyn The Hero committed his duty as Emperor of the Empire to make sure he satisfied the lords of the realms. Unfortunately, all good things come to an end as the heroic Uniter held court on a dull day, pushing 52. After a tiring evening Everyn spent time with his son who would later become Tristian the Holy. They played in the gardens but something was wrong. Everyn clenched his chest, feeling his heart stopping for a moment. The Emperor collapsed as the Empire burned him through Melgaeron tradition.

Tristian Melgaeron became Emperor shortly after his father’s passing, crowned by the High Ecclesial of the Grand Temple. Now keep in mind these two will become very best friends over their careers, uplifting the religion significantly to the point any Kazarok kingdom can recognize it by the Comet Star. Tristian the Holy became holy because he realized the commoners needed guidance and to explain why the natural order of the world is what it is, because God wills it. And when God wills it people obey, because he said so.

The Grand Temple kept heresies and heretics in check through holy orders such as the White Wardens. These wardens clad in plate armor were to stomp out people saying the wrong things at the wrong time. People who had different gods were lucky the White Wardens took mercy on them as the Empire under Tristian enacted tolerance. Critics of Tristian can preach all they want, but the guy wasn’t stupid enough to refuse a tolerance tax when he saw one. This helped the Adelram in the long run when they were maintaining a standing army to show everyone who's boss. They sure showed the Orcs and Goblins huh?



“The Adelram Empire was truly the beacon of civilization and there are various things we can talk about its full history. How Naerys became the first Empress after a devastating civil war, how the Stormstrums took over after Everyn The Terrible. But for today, let’s end this lesson and remember the peak of Humanity. Farewell...” Laughing Jack ended the lesson, as the hooded individual walked away.


TURN END
SEND IN AS TURN 2, The due date is June, 24 2019. Grace Period is 25-27th
 

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Faction Name: The People of the Plains

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Date of Foundation: 6800
Leaders: Lady Regent Jasmine Floella
Notable Members:
General Walter Commodus
Captain Morgan Po


iu

Lady Regent Jasmine Floella


Government (Elected Council):
Ruler is elected every 10 years by the populace. The elected person becomes Lord or Lady Regent and has overall responsibility for all lands and peoples. The Regent selects a Council which seats once per week in Carrafeld to discuss all pertinent matters. Seats on the Council:

Grand Purser – Head of the Merchants’ Guild. Responsible for trade, commerce, and taxes.

Grand Artisan – Head of the Labourers’ Guild. Responsible for infrastructure, farming and blacksmithing.

Grand Magician – Head of the Guild of Magicks and Other Intrigues. Advisor of healing and magic, and weather-reading to anticipate droughts and floods.

General – Head of the Cavalry Corps. Military advisor.

Magistrate – Responsible for law and order. Keeps the peace.


Religion: Polytheism

Of the founding:
The People of the Plains is a republic formed only 200 years ago, but born out of catastrophe. The Plainspeople lived far to the east* and had been ruled by Kings for centuries. A great plague spread across the land, killing nearly three quarters of the population. King Solomon locked himself away in his castle and let his people fend for themselves. A humble butcher by the name of Derwin Bronch led an exodus of 200 people to flee the plague and find a new home. These pioneers forged their way west through Mesados before finally settling on the great prairies. It was a harsh first few years before they found their feet, and many more perished in this inhospitable and unfamiliar land.
These new People of the Plains decided that they never wanted to be abandoned by an inept ruler again. Having got them this far, Derwin Bronch was exhausted and wanted to retire. He suggested that they elect a new leader, and he would not run in the election. The people decided to hold an election every 10 years.
The largest town, Carrafeld, serves as capital and Seat of the Council. It is situated on the banks of a large lake which was formed of glacial meltwater. Streams outflow from it throughout the prairies and is the main source of water. The prairies are mixed grass – vast swathes of scrubland with some copses of trees. The Plainspeople call it “The Stalk Sea.” Herd of bison and elk graze, and provide the main source of protein. The Jarin-Tor, a powerful breed of horses, were tamed and are used in many forms of work and military life. The temperature is hot and there is always a howling wind. Drought is a common adversary, and is often followed by a flash flood. The people are usually tanned and leather-skinned from the elements.

Of The Sickness:
The pioneers that settled in this land were tough. They had survived a great plague, and all had lost family and friends. But the relentless sun and wind on the prairies, combined with the deep loneliness which many homesteaders felt, caused many to suffer from severe mental health issues. This became known as The Sickness. In recent years it has started to decline with improved road networks and communication with the outside world.

Of the infrastructure:
Carrafeld is the largest town and capital. Outside of Carrafeld, the populace live in homesteads, many of which are working farms. A collection of homesteads are designated as a shire. The Magistrate recruits a Shire Reeve for every shire, to keep the peace and resolve neighbour disputes. In case of marauding bandits, the Shire Reeve can deputise a posse of locals to hunt down the bandits. Almost all Plainspeople grew up with horses and can ride competently. Their environment made them tough and they will band together in defence of their lands. The buildings are single storey and made from wood and clay.
Most homesteaders work the land – many farm cattle and other animals, but there is also some arable farming. Most large shires have a smith to make tools and horseshoes, and weapons in times of war.

Of the military:
The standing army is The Cavalry Corps, and is almost exclusively a mounted army. The Jarin-Tor are powerful horses, calm and intelligent in combat. ‘The Outriders’ are small regiments tasked with defending the borders of the country from bandits and beasts.
Riders are armed with spears and swords, and wear leather armour. There is also a mounted archer regiment.

*OOC: Unspecified location so as not to impose on another player’s roleplay
Edit: Added country location to the map - doh!
 

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Acrad, one morning at the Palce of Jubilee...
The dust from the bright teal roof of the palace went off into the wind, seemingly scattering in the blink of an eye. The song of the birds echoed through the bustling narrow cobbled streets of the capital. It was a busy usual day, the atmosphere gently reminding each and everyone of how they belonged to a sprawling settlement. Making their way through the crowds of the streets, amidst a cruel inviting smell of freshly baked bread, various carriages carrying nobles have arrived in the Jubilee Plaza. Among the nobles, on foot, were the other commoners making their way in a hurry to catch the annual speech of the Chancellor.

Along the marble tiles of the Palace's lobby, Chancellor Aurelion is making his way in haste in order to reach his contingent of elite guardsmen, waiting just in front of the main entrance to the Palace. A tremendous crowd awaited him outside, with the entire members of the Council sitting in the front row seats. Various nobles were seen behind the line formed by the guardsmen, each setting up a lavish wooden chair for themselves, shoving their fan up and down in order to resist the heat of the sun. The wealthier men could be distinguished either by their slaves who held an umbrella, or by wearing stylish hats. After the nobles and their guards, then came the common folk, each fighthing the heat of the morning in their own ways, either by staying hydrated or by covering their head with scarfs.

"Whether you are a citizen or a foreigner, a common man or a noble, I hereby bid you all the warmest greetings, Acrad! Before we being the inauguration of our yearly Independence Triumph celebration, I will start with a small speech that I've been eager to share. It has been a year of trials, no doubt. For all of us. In the light of recent criticism from our own people....some regarding religious affairs and some regarding the Citizenship Construction Act, I pledge that, together with my faithful colleagues in the Council, we will try and remediate any problems that already happened and might happen, so that we will continue to resume our lives in the spirit of acradian peacefulness and productibility. That is correct, your elected leaders do care about all the opinions of this great city, and it is with our sincere hope that both sides of every conflict can come to an understandable agreement, whether we are talking about the authorities, the Church or our citizens. Without bothering you further with promises that you might, of course, not believe yet, I shall move forward with my statements. Borghildr, a nation ever thirsty for more, has made all the necessary attempts at distrupting the lives, villages and stealing resources. For intimidation? A possible attempt at expanding? For now, we cannot pronounce, but make sure that our people, especially High General Olum himself which I see there back behind the councillors, assured us all that all the necessary precautions shall be taken in order to avoid further violence and repugnant actions by those self-entitled civilized warmongers. With that out of the way, I shall end with delightful news, for all of us. Peace has once again won, thanks to the efforts of our diplomats in Bronntistao. Our half-cousins, as you can call them by all means, the elves have considered and accepted our proposal to unify our front against the pirate criminals that have been plaguing the seas for so long. As I'm speaking, our brave boys and their allies are mastering the waves in search of greater security for our prosperity. I do believe some bronntistan diplomats are here today, watching from the crowd as I speak. I salute you, and wish your nation a bright future next to us. And now, heh he, enough with this political chat. I officially declare the Independence Day started as of now! Glory to the Republic and all it stands for!"
 
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The Apprentice

About a days ride from the main Gor'Mok encampment was a secluded group of lakes enclosed by rolling hills and a calm wind which gave the area a feeling of serenity as well as a innate connection with its surroundings: both of which were important for a shaman when training. As Drekar watched from his tent upon one of the hills to the lakeside below however, he saw that his apprentice still had much to learn. She was a promising student as she had progressed this far beyond most of her peers, but like any young orc she was impulsive, brash, strong-willed, and very emotional. All of these would have to be rectified in order for her to continue on, but one quality she did display that Drekar admired was her perseverance throughout the shamanic trials. The old orc slowly stood up with the help of his oaken staff and wordlessly walked downwards to speak with her. He saw that she was trying a spell on the waters she was standing in, but to little effect. She could only move and manipulate them a little, and she was getting visibly frustrated over it.

"Perhaps you ought to clear your mind, Morn." Drekar commented, startling the young orc. She hadn't heard him approach due to her focus. She quickly regathered herself even if she was both frustrated and slightly embarrassed at herself. She wanted to speak, perhaps to give another excuse, but stopped herself short of doing so when she saw that he was not done speaking. "Come. We can go under the tree over there, you would help an old orc find some shade, yes?"

"O-of course Master Drekar!" she quickly spoke as she got out of the waters and walked beside her elder. The journey wasn't far, as there were only a few trees in this region. But the tree that Drekar specifically mentioned was indeed a strange one. It was much larger than its neighbors, and seemed to belong more in a dense forest than it did in these rolling hills and plains. Yet, here it stood as a testament to nature's hardiness. And within the hour, they both found themselves within its cool shadow it cast on the ground below. Drekar sat on one end of a small patch of dirt while Morn sat on the other so that they faced one another. The elder orc placed his staff across his lap and looked towards his apprentice as if to chastise her, but instead was rather calm in his tone as he spoke to her.

"Frustration is understandable, but these things take time to get used to. You will fail, over and over and over again until you finally learn. That is normal. But to progress in any way, you must temper your nature and find an inner peace with your surroundings." he spoke to her as he observed her demeanor.

"I know... it's just that I don't know how to do that." Morn quietly said. "I don't know where to start or end, I don't know how to get from here to there."

Drekar pondered for a moment before chuckling. "Close your eyes."

Morn looked confused for a moment before she followed his instruction.

"Now breath... focus. Focus on your surroundings. Feel the earth... its rumbling and breathing. The air and how it flows around us. The waters of the lakes and their bounties... all of them. Find them and feel them become a part of you. And afterwards they will become an extension of yourself."

-----

A few weeks later...

Morn stood ankle deep in the lake once more, this time with Drekar standing and watching intently nearby. This would be her first true test to see what she had learned after all this time. Morn herself felt nervous, but as she learned from before she quickly closed her eyes and took a breath. She calmed herself and positioned herself with her own makeshift staff, which was a thick wooden branch with a large conch attached to its end. Following her teacher's advice, she focused inwards as she did motions with her staff over the waters. For the first few minutes, nothing happened save for the small movements of water she was capable of bringing forth. A growing frustration began to swell within her, but once again she fought it back and continued to focus.

Her battle with her own emotions continued as she went through the motions as Drekar watched from the shore. In silence, he hoped that she was capable as he observed over his pupil. He knew that this battle was both physical and mental for her, and that she needed to endure and win both. A hard task for any orc to follow through on.

Nearly a half hour passed as Morn continued to hone herself and her focus on the waters. It seemed as if it was fruitless, and doubt began to settle in her mind and cloud her thoughts. Was she really up to the task? Could she ever meet the expectations placed upon her? Was Drekar wrong to take her up? A flood of emotions now began to pour into her mind as she now truly struggled to focus, and was on the brink of giving up entirely. She whimpered a little as she continued, now exhausted both in body and mind as she aimlessly continued on. And then something clicked in her mind. This was the test put before her. Not to summon the waters, but to summon her own strength of will and mind. How could she ever control the waters if she couldn't control the things that held her back? And as quickly as she realized this, her determination shattered her fears, doubts, and anger and soon enough the waters beneath her rumbled and swirled around in a frenzy. And before long, she raised her arms, and the waters followed and she gave off a yell of joy with her discovery.

And as she looked to him, Drekar gave a proud smile and nodded to her in approval.

598095
 
iu


Captain Morgan Po sat astride his horse and stared at the plume of smoke rising from the remains of a nearby homestead. He was atop a low hill, a rarity which broke the monotony of the vast plains. At his back were a dozen men, all solid and capable. Outriders. Scouts for the Cavalry Corps. Charged with protecting their borders from bandits and beasts.
They had been riding towards the smoke for several hours, and were now close enough to sit and watch for any signs of life. They could see none. Eventually Captain Po led them forward to the homestead, a small cluster which only yesterday had consisted of a main house and several outbuildings.

Their thoroughbred Jarin-Tor horses, not prone to panic or flight, remained calmly at the edge of the horrifying scene. The ashen husks of the buildings were cooling and the men were able to pick their way carefully through the debris. Thomas Gubb held aloft a pair of small burned shoes and Captain Po made his way over to him. At his feet were the charred remains of a child. Around him the other men made similar discoveries as the fate of this family was laid bare. Po stared north at the distant horizon for several seconds, then west, and then south. Eventually he reached a decision.
Turning to Gubb he said “it’s at least a day’s hard riding to Backwater from here. Get there as fast as you can and raise the alarm. Have word sent to Lady Regent Floella and General Commodus. Then find the local Shire Reeve and track us. We’ll leave the usual signals. Oh and Gubber – don’t spare the horses.”

With a nod Gubber returned to his horse and galloped southeast towards Backwater. The remaining men gathered around Po, who had resumed staring north. “What next, Cap’n?” Someone asked. Po looked at the remains of the child at his feet.
“First we dig. And then we hunt.”
 
Turn 2 - The Elven Supremacy
R’azan, 7004
Robert Lother and a few companions wore heavy cloaks to shield themselves from the harsh winter. Out here in the land of the R'azan laid cold weather and little warmth. Robert himself wondered how the Children of Rod managed to keep themselves from dying in the cold like this. The silver suits and their magic might have something to do with that as he witnessed meeting with Mekar.

“We’re just up ahead. Keep on going!” Robert shouted, visible breath coming from his mouth while his companions nodded, pressing onwards. They eventually saw a town of some sorts, getting closer when they felt a warm sensation as soon as they entered. Robert sighed a load of relief, meeting up with a few people covered in silver armor, faces hidden by humanoid helmets. Robert and his companions wandered forward into the town, wishing to meet up with Mekar.

The town comprised of brick houses and huts, armored villagers sitting down in a group and meditating. Members of the Saboteur kept on moving, needing to see an old friend. They spotted a unique hut up ahead, allowing Robert to recognize this exact place. He widened his eyes, turning to several followers. “Wait here. I’ll be back shortly.” He said. The others complied, standing guard with the few villagers who stared at them silently. Robert came up to the large decorated hut, guarded by two warriors with spears. He then heard a faint voice coming from the house. The guards looked over their shoulders, giving a brief nod to Robert for some reason. The Captain stepped into the hut, staring at a large man dressed similarly to the other villagers in silver armor. The man wielded a large staff glowing blue at the end of it, almost mesmerizing.

“Mekar.” Robert called out as he rubbed his hands for warmth while the leader turned. Mekar’s face was obscured by a steel helm similar to that of a skull. “To what do we owe to this visit Captain Lother?” Mekar stated to the weary sailor who was on haste on this trip. Robert heard the news spreading fast within his homeland. Major tensions and panic has led to a dangerous path. Robert mentioned his reasons for coming here.

“We traveled a long way to speak with you. I know the Children of Rod are fighting Grisgoth, but I insist you hear me out. Borghildr’s facing a danger. I fear they could be going to war with Acrad. Relations are getting worse over the past three winters and I’m afraid we don’t have much time till my people go to war. If we don’t act now, thousands will die Mekar. Hearth has agreed to support their neighbor faction if a war ever breaks out. I never once took Hearth as dishonorable.” Robert explained as Mekar takes the time to hear him.

“These series of events are known to us. But I take it you are here on behalf of King Halldor for aid should the time come.” Mekar answered with deep authority, getting closer towards Robert to get a closer look at the aging sailor.

“I also need to know what’s going to happen next. What will become of Borghildr and families should they worry about the threat of invasion from the Acradians?!” Robert raised his voice leaving Mekar unfazed by this, he simply shook his head.

“You are misunderstanding Lother, magic cannot predict events based on what we do know. I cannot truly predict possibilities, only what is probable. Only the Gods can give us a sign if we’re setting ourselves in the right direction. Relations between the Republic and Skalland were never on good terms. It would be inevitable they wouldn’t see eye to eye.” Mekar explained the idea behind their magic. Robert sighed in frustration.

“You spoke of this prophecy, something that’s been told for thousands of winters during the Reign of Elves. Maybe this is a sign that we’re not seeing right now. Getting that dragon horn from the Elven woman has to mean something.”

“A prediction, that may or may not happen. People have claimed Sunn will devour the world when its people have turned mad. Some have claimed the Titans will come back and rule over our way of life for eternity. So many predecessors have taken prophecies for granted that have left people to terrible fates. Understand in my footsteps I cannot allow faith to blind what’s written in front of us.”

The answer gave no solution for the dangers in Robert's mind. He clenched his hands tightly to the point they went numb.

“So what can we do then?” Robert said to the old friend. Mekar was silent for a short moment. At the moment the best case didn't rely on casting spells or even assassination. This aggression only served to spark an event Humans have feared. Mekar finally spoke.

“Gather as many men as you can and so will the R’azan. Pray to the Gods our people will not suffer if the Elven Kingdoms are so daring. We need the King of Hildemar and others should we go to war..."

Behold, there will be a time when the blood of Maegon reawakens. When they do, they shall ignite the Spark of Armageddon that will lay all of Nasroth conquered. From the flames, a grand alliance will be forged from ambition, bringing about the end of an era.

...


The Elven Supremacy, 7004
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603351
603352

4th Apri, 13th Day
In ancient times people made fire because they were cold. People gathered food and sung songs together because they were stuck with each other. Ancient people have this inherent bond and experience we cannot fathom to imagine based on kinship and brotherly love. If we’re so civilized, how come we’re still fighting each other?

Three years have passed and so far things are getting more intense for our political sphere of Kazarok. Alliances are being forged, and trade flows like any good business would. Magner the Spider said if you’re going to survive, you’re going to need a lot of allies you can call upon. Why do you need allies? Because no one likes to go to war alone.

WORLD EVENTS
  • With Spring Fever gone, many villagers and cities have taken the efforts to build hospitals to resist should sickness arise.
  • There’s a series of nomads coming from Mesados migrating towards Kazarok civilization in the new millennium. This has allowed refugees and troublemakers to be spotted within the kingdoms, causing a wake of confusion and disgust to the new population.
  • The Imperial Army of Cephalonia have declared war on the county of Willow, mobilizing half of its army along with the Brotherhood. As a result of this, news has spread across the region regarding these chain of events prompting several to heed the wrath of the Empire.
603258
603256


Clan Gor'Mok
With their discovery that the fact they weren’t alone in the world, it was inevitable Gor’mok found some friends after a harsh trip. Once they found a Gandan orc pack, they immediately told their stories about how life was different than the old world. The truth is this wasn’t the only time orcs got together, this was one of the common ways how orcs got alliances to invade. I scratch your back, you scratch my back after all.
603236

TECH: Currently not researching

Events:
  • A few orcs from Gandan have begun to meet up with the Gor’Mok tribe, telling about their meet ups with Clan Draka, a large tribe that boasts it would invade the south one day.
  • Several goblin migrants have arrived at the Gor’Mok tribe, wandering aimlessly while civilians scratch their heads in confusion.
  • Orc civilians began to fortify the tribe using lumber to build walls around their community.
- After the scouting mission, news spread across the tribe about how there was a tribe like them who also migrated from the old world. Once Gromm heard back from Karrog, he sent a messenger to discuss a potential alliance. The messenger got back, stating the Gandan Chief’s name was Huk Huk, a veteran who fought in several clan wars over in the Frozen Wastes. Huk Huk was even kind enough to travel to the Gor’Mok tribe, celebrating over the clan’s first contact. Huk Huk and Gromm discussed a mutual partnership between the two clans, helping them out when something major came up.

- The success of the scouting mission increased morale within the community, allowing brave warriors to take the call. And that’s what Gromm wanted, ordering a large scout party to explore what’s south of the clan. The scout party increased to 14 eager warriors with some even bringing their children as part of their training. The scout party wandered outwards, searching for flora and animals to take home such as a herd of cowbaffo during their travel. The miles were finally worth it as the scouting party allowed them to find a small settlement occupied by other orcs, green and more brutal in behavior.

- Orc weapons are not the sharpest tools in the armoury, but you find some clans adapt iron weapons during those invasions of theirs a long time ago. We have killed so many people with sharpened bones, stones, poison, including magic. I’ve seen people strangle soldiers with their own intestines in battle, but so far not Clan Gor’Mok. Chief Gromm has decided to bring out the iron weapon tradition by building forges to increase the quality of weapons. The building went smoothly as the resources sent by Gandan allowed them to get their essentials going. The clan assigned new blacksmiths to carry out new orders while the orcs pulled out the good ol grindstone to use.

- Now, Orcs don’t really live longer than Elves or Dwarves do, you think with all those muscles on their bodies. Their shamans are getting old and someone has to pass the torch to the youth. A water shaman took a bright student under his wing named Morn, the basic idea as I explained with Meridol is that the stronger the wind, the more air you can harness. Soon enough her talent inspired a few others to try. By the three winter span, Morn has managed to become an excellent student. With time and effort she may one day become a full fledged mage.

- As the tribe is settling in, you can imagine generations living off here, which is why it’s so important for them to teach their children how to fight. The veterans of the tribe were confident the younglings were ready to train in spears and shields after doing good so far. But with greatness always begets arrogance. The children were good fighters, but they prided themselves as the strongest to the point each one prided themselves as the alpha of the team while the adults were gone. This led to many fights outside of the hunting ground and created groups who harassed each other, picking fights in the tribe.

- Gromm wanted to make sure his entire tribe was well fed, but some changes needed to be made. Instead of focusing on hunter and gathering, he opted for more agricultural means like sowing fruit seeds. The tribe brought some seeds during their settling phase, planting them in their makeshift farms to get things going. The Orcs attempted to sow these kernel seeds for wheat to grow, but the ideal growing season wasn’t there yet. This caused less produce and weak grains for the Orcs.

Northlin
Goblins usually don’t make good leaders and greenskins always fought over to see who’s the better leader and how much they can conquer the smallest. But sometimes a rare but great leader will show up and lead a great faction. It takes charisma and wisdom for Northlin’s leaders to show why they have a vision.
603243

Goblins usually don’t make good leaders and greenskins always fought over to see who’s the better leader and how much they can conquer the smallest. But sometimes a rare but great leader will show up and lead a great faction. It takes charisma and wisdom for Northlin’s leaders to show why they have a vision.

TECH: Currently not researching

Events:
  • Human slaves are put to work on mining and fighting practices, boosting entertainment for the Goblins.
  • Goblins began to clean up the trolls made from the havoc they caused. No funerals were given to the fallen goblins.
  • The outskirts of Northlin finally rally towards Kard of Old, believing he could be the one and only to carve a mighty warband to take over Kazarok.
- After a series of their fellow goblins enraged over Northlin’s demands, they finally received a great break when Kard of Old tried again. He persuaded the simple minded others by twisting popular goblin tales to appeal to their emotions. How Kard of Old is descended from the oldest goblins heroes who became great idols to new generations. In awe, these goblins finally got the message through Kard’s simple words and demonstrations why he should be put in charge.

- After earning their respect, the Northlin goblins with the new recruits got to work on taking any non-greens as slaves: human, beasts, lone elves, anybody with hands and feet. The goblins used forest tactics like hiding in the trees to get the upper hand, taking surprised villagers in the dark and putting them to good use for slave labor. Though there was a struggle and a few deaths at first, the goblins managed to get an acceptable number of slaves. These slaves would be used for labor and personal fun.

- Blood Magic is a versatile tool for the malicious and the devious. It’s no surprise Kard wanted to gain followers with blood spilled. Their blood mages were trying to figure out how to get creature bind to their own will. Animals are simple, so they made sure to focus on them first. One of the blood mages cast a binding spell with his own blood as some spells required the user’s own if they wanted to control people. The test on a cowbaffo allowed the animal to enter in a blank state, following the goblin wherever he went. Although the spell wore off within hours, it told them control was within the palm of their hands.

- With the potential of mining minerals of the north’s worth, Northlin goblins are ordered to organize work camps. With the small number of slaves they managed to get, they immediately got to work. The threat of killing the slaves on the spot caused them to work even harder mining coal and stones for building resources. These despots were used for other projects outside. Goblins were also ordered to clean up the gore mess their trolls made on their rampage. A lucky find on large amounts of silver were taken to camp for Kard to make a decision on what to do with it.

- As Northlin grows, so does the demand for food and what better way than to try again? Several head honchos ordered their lackeys to start penning livestock again. This time these workers prioritized on their animals’ health, feeding them with hay and fruit so they can produce more children. Their luck finally came as livestock grew and so did food output, allowing people to enjoy a tasty meal without starving for it.

New Heldon
The Angels of New Heldon are looking to change tradition as Saint Elise would say. Instead of isolating themselves, they’re heading to meet contact of the outside world. After establishing economic relations with the Vampires and their sellsword allies, things are looking up for our Heldonian friends.
603252

TECH: Wheel Barrow(1 Turn Remaining)

Events:
  • Several angels wandered outwards, traveling to see the Vampire Kingdoms on their journeys after new relations. These angels generated tourism for Sigharis, allowing them to sell them Sigharian antiques.
  • Half-Bloods have decided to move away from the fortresses due to crime and discrimination, deciding to live on the countryside.
  • Poor working conditions on the wagonway caused several deaths in the process, causing the workers to go on strike as a result.
- Gaining relations with Sigharis and Kislock, the Heldanians took the next step and sent scouts to access the details. The basic idea with Sigharis and Kislock is that they were vampire states, driven by vengeance against the Humans in the west for invading their homes and attempted to wipe them all out. A few scouts attempted to learn more about them other than their leaders and way of life, however all they found out were dead end rumors and commoner gossip. The scouts returned home, with less information than they expected for their neighbors.

- I should probably tell you by now raising troops is an investment, an investment if lost during what we call war, cost lives and faith in the kingdom. Heldon’s not great but not terrible which is what some of the more militant members wanted to change. The leaders of New Heldon agreed on improving the training regimens. During the year, the training got off to a really good start, as recruits learned to train with the sword, pike, spear, including archery such as longbows. At the end of the year they managed to train a hundred soldiers, trained in the common weapons like swords and bows.

- Armour comes in many forms, but the most common I’ve seen is mail armour: metal rings that are linked together. A man wearing this has a serious advantage when it comes to fighting from slashes. New Heldon explored the ideas of improved armour-making for their soldiers. The common armorsmiths were paid by their patrons to make armour less costly and easy to produce. The challenge proved difficult in the year but eventually these armorsmiths managed to create unique armour making techniques that made mail armour more faster to make. The new equipment allowed peasantry soldiers to dress in more mail armour, given tabards to style themselves after Heldon culture.

- White Magic has the potential to improve living conditions for anyone, being in good health is definitely ideal to a good kingdom. Two of their mages were ordered by Saint Elise to train up and coming students who wished to learn how to help others. In addition, they established an advisory board to screen nearby hedge mages for their services. The efforts to train more mages was a success as the two white mages took many students under their wings to study why white magic is a very practical teaching for their time. Eventually the process paid off with local mages training under the two masters while hedge mages agreed to abide by the rules and policy of New Heldon.

- New Heldon ordered the construction of a new wagonway that would run north-south and west-east to assist with the movement of heavy goods guarded by watchers. These wagonways will connect to the capital. They were hoping construction would be approved by the end of the month, allowing to create jobs in the process. But major issues rose up: speed of construction slowed down and the workers were too demotivated from daunting Sunn and a few accidents leading to injuries.

- Every kingdom needs resources, metal and wood to fuel our way of life. The Fortress-Monasteries helped each other out to find these useful raw materials. The most focused was getting lumber out to fuel heat and house building. They included ore, stone and marble while they went on. The search for these resources came at a slow pace but these miners and trackers managed to gather resources at a gain than a drastic loss.

Kazirian Legion
The three winters passed, the Legion dealing with any contract they could to put grain and water on the table. The partnership with New Heldon has been going well where they’re seen as natural allies in case a war between a foreign enemy ever broke out.
603265

TECH: Wooden Forts(1 Turn Remaining)

Events:
  • Several sellswords after a hard day’s work celebrated the night away. The party grew to giant proportions, causing a lot of noise, boosting up morale.
  • A successful minor contract allowed one sellsword to rise high in the ranks. The merc named Ven Kazmo fought a pack of beastmen harassing villagers at night, slaying them and was rewarded handsomely.
  • Families within the stronghold enjoyed a relaxing lifestyle enjoying the water mill. It easily provided access to the basic needs.
- The next course of business was for the Legion scouts to find points of interest in the nearby river. The roads during the days and nights were dangerous to wander alone. So they allowed multiple packs to venture outward wearing protection. Despite their greatest efforts, the packs were met with little to no points of interests during their exploration. Thankfully, no one was harmed during these ventures.

- The Leader Jelina after witnessing the poor progress on training was understandably frustrated. Spring Fever took a toll on everyone and it showed in the previous year but now that it has faded away, they needed to get back on schedule. Jelina ordered another round of training exercises, seeing it herself if they were motivated unlike before. Jelina acted as military inspiration for the men, allowing them to take solace in the fact under her they were strong. The effort finally paid off as soldiers honed their skills in terms of endurance and stamina as half-elves.

- A way to traverse the world was to have a pretty good idea where you’re actually going. These were called maps. A level above the average sellsword were Rangers, veterans who were better trained and outright well equipped to handle a difficult enemy. Rangers such as Theovin Rodove knew what the men and women needed so he taught them how to travel with a map in handy. Theovin took his job seriously, allowing the sellswords to grow while Jelina motivated them to keep going. The sellswords then proceeded to know about terrain scouting after the poor result from the previous scouting mission.

- With their relationship from New Heldon, several members such as Theovin were sent to retrieve books regarding military tactics and how old free companies used to work. One example of a classic free company was the Black Mount, a band of 108 heavily armored riders who’d take expensive contracts for the most powerful kingdoms, turning the tide of a battle whenever they arrived. The sellsword brought at least one book written by an experienced soldier who has passed to the light. Despite the rich text and information, it was mostly everything the Legion already knew, albeit several invaluable to new recruits and organization.

- With the construction of a water mill possible, the workers immediately attempted to search the resources such as lumber and metal to get it going. And soon enough, these workers worked their butts off to get a good foundation, allowing members to complete the water mill within the three winter span. The water mill left the Legion with a power source for other needs.

- With the successful training and map navigation, the final action was to scout for arable land for farms. The Keep needed to have a reasonable source to sustain itself if it wanted to survive than other companies did. The short distance and climate in the region allowed people to easily find arable land all around the stronghold.

Brotinnstao
The port city has experienced some changes throughout the three winter span in terms of population and new policies regarding their new trading partners. These policies ultimately changed the city for good, and for the worse.
603273

TECH: Sewage Disposal(Researched)

Events:
  • Scouts have recently came back from the mainland to report no dragons has been sighted during their search. However, there were rumors spreading around a magical Elve has wielded a dragon horn, an item designed to call a dragon if one is nearby.
  • The Brotinnstao Expediton led by Captain Gaenar has successfully earned an agreement from the natives of the north isles to colonize.
- There’s a difference between a dragon’s horn and a dragon horn. Now a dragon’s horn is more common than you think considering the average Dragon is still around in the world. A dragon horn? Rarer than arcane armor and I’ll explain why but for now Brotinnstao agents were sent to the mainland to see if the rumors were true, if dragons were around but so far there was no sighting from kingdoms like Altheim or even Morragon. Nobles explained Dragons haven’t been a common sight for centuries after the Elven Wars when Gaelron and his dragon Azran were slain by Everyn V. Now why is that? No one really knows, maybe the flying creatures believed it was better to migrate elsewhere freely. Now dragon horn on the other hand is a magical item designed to call a nearby dragon and bind it to user’s will. They are rare because its magical properties is a guaranteed way to tame a wild dragon, but hasn't been practiced for centuries. Dragons are an inherently dangerous creature prone to outbursts and destruction. If one isn’t careful, it may be disastrous consequences.

- To expand outwards and to gain a steady influence among Numerya, Brotinnstao sent out a major expedition effort to take control of the isles to the north supported by the White Mage and the Black Mage. This expedition carried risks like any colonization efforts like disease, people resisting, or even the fleet suffering a massive setback that could doom the effort. But fortunately enough the fleet went to their destination with a minor case of sea sickness and not other problems ahead. When they arrived there they found natives during their travel and were told by the Ruler they should reach a solution of peace. And for the most part these natives were convinced by the Maguses if they submitted they will enjoy a life of peace. Several natives left out of their free will while the rest agreed to abide on the condition Brotinnstao supported them for the future.

- Throughout Numerya, tensions rose as the Elven people weren’t as united as loyalists claimed to be. It was only necessary Brotinnstao needed more soldiers for the years to come or face invasions from others. The kingdom attempted to recruit abled elves fit for the call, but these new recruits were lazy and physically unfit for service. Their incompetence led to more bad than good, bringing down the average training.

- A normal expansion for their harbours was to construct treadwheel cranes to unload cargo in the docks. They soon got started to avoid delaying the project, gathering resources to build the cranes. Three winters passed and the cranes looked to be still in construction albeit with little issues during the span.

- The city of Brotinnstao thrives as population grows over the years. To improve the port city they also needed a form of commerce so they were ordered to build a square market. Gathering the materials the workers already had a plan in motion to kickstart the project and get it finished. The project created multiple jobs in the process and once the cranes were finished at the end of the three winter span, they easily worked with little issues. The cranes unloaded cargo from merchant ships, allowing exchanges to move much faster.

- There’s a level of command when it comes to every government. A king controls the law, in theory, and his subject abide by his rules. The King has passed a series of laws that involve rent-control to limit the amount of money land-owners demand from their own peasants. Now, lords and nobles are greedy people and they don’t like when people lessen their tributes. Once these laws were in effect, the commoners had more currency to spend on goods and products but the land owners were not happy about this one bit, causing them to hire criminals to rough them up a bit and threatening them. The streets worsened, allowing criminals to harass the daily citizen as fear spread.

Meridol
The Paere in the first years reformed led by Ren Rimitiriua. Despite their small stature and nativity, they were one of a kind in a world like Nasroth. They really wanted to reunite with the other clans because a strong people is a united one.
603310

TECH: Public Library(2 Turns Remaining)

Events:
  • Meridol has made contact with Clan Negc after many years. Both factions discussed many things during the span.
  • Meridol’s influence grows at a slow but effective pace, as news spread the talk of the Paere are becoming more passive and less isolated.
- Disappointed their efforts weren’t successful, they wanted to find another way to spread themselves on the island. The Meridol People attempted to extend their influence and borders outward passively without worrying the other groups as well. The process started as more Paere began to spread the word out to their neighbors, having no issues regarding the other groups and easily persuaded several tribes. Their influence grew at a reasonable pace, allowing several people to conform to Octopon rule.

- Meridol contacted Clan Negc after getting a clue where they were. They could use their services regarding tamed wildlife and see if they can explore outside of the homeland. One of Clan Negc’s members named Brightmuse answered this question, the Clan at least having aquatic life like the Duranga Turtle. Only big issue was, it was just an ordinary turtle and the other wildlife their ancestors tamed were lost through time like the dolphins and the giant turtles.

- The Fegme mostly dwell underground and unlike other sprightes choose not to use magic. For an unknown reason why prefer to live six feet under and not on the surface. The people of Meridol set out to search the Fegme, sending search parties up to 5 so they can finally meet up. During their journey, the Paere came across multiple small holes in the ground. They ventured underground, seeing a society comprised of pale Fegme. The Meridol adventurers greeted them, wishing no harm for their people. The dwellers responded, saying they’ve been living underground for generations, preferring to meditate in isolation away from normal way of life.

- The Faere are different when compared to a Kingdom’s military. The government feared should left with nothing to do, it would result in a poor fighting force. Within the Fono passed a general standard of keeping a strict regimen for their soldiers. The officers in charge of the army attempt to roughen up the force but their experiences in peace time have still allowed them to slack off. On their regimen the young recruits are prone to give attitude towards command, leaving the government to respond before training worsens.

- Meridol is currently studying a way to access archives but that would require space. They looked on ways to research a public library.

- Meridol after discovering the general roads decayed from lack of maintenance decided which roads were the most important for the people. They figured the roads connected to the main towns will be kept and expand outwards. The Paere scrapped several roads and wanted to restart from scratch. With planning done, major construction groups went to their stations, digging up the dirt to carve out their new roads. These roads weren’t cobblestone but small smooth rocks piled on side by side while several workers sanded it for on foot travel. I have to admire the Paere, despite being an underdog story and a knack for detail the Mertidol were going to be alright:)

Korkari Confederation
The proud people of the Confederation had challenges in the form of the Orcs north of here. The important part of going to war were allies and a lot of supplies for soldiers. Hopefully the Dwarves of Brimnir will decide to help out the brave men and women in the future.
603328

TECH: Wooden Forts(1 Turn Remaining)

Events:
  • There’s a minor migration of villagers heading into the towns, looking for new work in the forms of farming and craftsmanship.
  • The Highlands experienced a long term rainfall during the first part of 7003, causing a series of floods during the period.
  • A hero named Evan the Bold ventures outside the Highlands, saying goodbye to his fellow Korkari to spread glory to the Confederation. In 7004 he returned with traveling companions and a large source of money to distribute for the villages.
- Their military shipments were a disaster and the professional soldiers there were not happy one bit to continue amateur hour like this. Lord Dontos personally sent the professional soldiers, also known as his retinue to the major populated villages. He wanted all of them to teach the commoners how to actually fight and lead the local militias under new training regimens. Once the soldiers arrived, they quickly worked with the locals to point out what they were doing right and what weren’t they doing right. The soldiers started jogging runs, sparing matches and hardcore push ups for the basics. They advanced to other levels, allowing militias to have a better understanding of tactics and improving themselves.

- After hearing word about the positive reactions from the Brimnir Dwarves, Lord Dontos responded by agreeing to send in gifts in support. The deal was that the Korkari would send in shipments of iron mined by them for 12 months as a gesture of good faith. Despite the small quantity of iron they needed to ship out, this was more than enough to keep the Brimnir Kingdom in good faith with the Korkari Confederation.

- Lord Dontos has decided he needed to push his iron smelteries out of construction fast. He gathered as many men as possible to send more raw materials. And so the men did, placing many people to transport materials for the construction of these smelteries until they were practically finished by the three winter span. The smelteries took hold, creating several jobs for people who knew how to work them.

- In the Highlands, reading was not a popular pastime for the majority as was common in a lot of kingdoms. Considering their way of life reading and counting to twenty isn’t going to stop an orc axe from disemboweling your organs. To improve literacy, the government has sent out reading lessons in the form of Ravens sending messages and riders heading towards villages to teach people how.
Although the people are trying their hardest, their results are slow but steady in the long run.


Republic of Acrad
Tension has risen ever since they have made an aggressive stance against the Northmen of Borghildr and everyone is currently talking about it. The Republic is also siding with the Kingdom of Brotinnstao for a trade partnership. These interesting times should be the first to set off something big.
603330

TECH: Homing Ravens(1 Turn Remaining)

Events:
  • Many villagers have migrated to the city of Acrad from the threat of Borghildr, closing their doors and sitting out the impending doom.
  • The Acradian Army mobilizes outwards towards the unclaimed borders, standing by waiting for the first move. The movement causes them to lose some steam in the process.
  • Small peace movements appeared ever since the Army mobilized towards the unclaimed borders, citing others to remain non-violent and not be tempted by going to war.
- In the wake of 7001, the Republic of Acrad and the Kingdom of Brotinnstao have announced the Acradian-Elven Sea Pact. A non-aggression pact is signed and permission for military and merchant vessels to pass freely through water territories is now in effect.

- Now, people go to war all the time for the most insane reasons. I’ve seen counties declare wars over their sacred cow not being respected in the community. But regarding different reasons, the Acradian leader such as the High Councilor and his lackies have formally denounced the Kingdom of Borghildr. As an effect of denouncing these savages and barbaric people, all trades and ties have been halted. Although Acrad has attempted to spread lies and dehumanize their neighbor faction in hopes to give rally has soon backfired. Tensions have risen to greater heights than ever before, with both sides rallying for what could be an upcoming war. The trade with Borghildr has caused the economy to lower itself, causing a few protests and leaving people panicking if a war is going to start, leaving the city for refuge elsewhere.

- Relations between the Northmen and the Acradian people have caused both to mobilize their armies between their close enough borders. To the Acrad side they managed to send 600 soldiers, 400 men-at-arms and 150 archers in an effort to scare the Borghilders from submission. During this power move, Acradians attempted to secure a deal with the local villages in the unclaimed territory. Villagers are promised a tax free access to the port of Acrad for their goods with a duration of 3 years from the annexation, military and political protection, eligibility for auxiliary military service against Borghildr with the chance of earning citizenship and funds to rebuild destroyed infrastructure. Several villages agreed to the deal but not all of them, leaving Acrad a lot more people to annex than they expected.

- The Republic is ordered to expand the harbour within their city to bring in more goods in the region. After the panic from the mass mobilization, they gathered harbour workers on buying several equipment to suit the harbour. During the process, they repaired several docks and replaced the old wood with new lumber.

- Outrages and protests have caused the government to make a decision regarding the study of Elven artifacts. Left with no solution and choice, the magistrates announced to everyone they will halt all research on Elven relics. This decision left the people content, but in reality the magistrates have kept a major secret from them. The magistrates conspired to keep the research going and keep it a secret from the public but much more slower. However several conspirators got paranoid, looking over their shoulder believing the secret was not quite as well kept as they thought it was.

- Because of political relations between Brontinnstao and Acrad, this has allowed both to secure a trade route in the Southon Sea.

Mallen-Tol
The Dwarves have stray a bit far from normal Dwarven customs, seeking contact with foreign states to discuss trade agreements and potential alliances. But evidently these actions from the previous year has improved their way of life.
603336

TECH: Cobblestone Roads(2 Turns Remaining)


Events:
  • A regiment of Mallen-Tol soldiers head to Cephalonia and are placed under the royal bodyguard of Cephalonia
  • Cephalonian priests are allowed to practice their faith on the Dwarven Kingdom.
  • A Dwarven Charter is forged within the city of Cephalonia, attracting new patrons and tourists.
- The faction of Mallen-Tol has sent a diplomatic envoy towards the city of Cephalonia to forge a non-aggression pact. This pact includes the creation of a Dwarven Quarter on Cephalonia’s port to allow oceanic trade and to deliver goods as Mallen-Tol lacks a coastline naturally. These will increase trade between the kingdoms and it tells the Emperor that Mallen-Tol recognizes the Empire on a positive light, accepting the Emperor could possibly be the heir but not outright accept it. This decision would appease more dangerous claimants down the lie should anything bad happen. After these events Mallen-Tol has even allowed Cephalonia to spread their faith within the land. But this has caused a bit of discord between the two people. The missionaries from Cephalonia were usually ridiculed for their religion and sometimes shunned based on religious differences.

- Mallen-Tol is raising a fund to set a permanent station for the Kazirian Legion in defense for the realm. The Dwarves also intend to build a Legion Bastion on the southern road to Cephalonia. Should the Legion have a conflict of interest playing sides in the future, the Dwarven clause is forced to make the mercs withdraw peacefully from Mallen-Tol. The funds started to pile up, driving Mallen-Tol to supply the station with improved armor and weaponry. But as they went in the watch guards around the roads struggled to deal with thievery despite their newly acquired weapons. Later during the span they realized the funds were slowing down as they expected.

- When they purchased the rune stone from the College they immediately brought it back to the Council of Guilds to see if they can mess with it. In preparation for studying, they sent miners to carve out special structures out of the mountain for this runestone. A pack of scholars attempted to study this artifact to find out its potential uses but a day later a foolish dwarve thought it would be nice to fiddle with a precious relic, banging it with an anvil until his body turned to black, his bone also until they turned to dust. The other scholars were outraged at the lack of professionalism the man displayed, causing them to place safety regulations.

- After securing a deal with Cephalonia, a wave of dwarves begin to build a Dwarven Charter that will at least be two stories in the style of their underground architecture. The Dwarves have noted to construct a bazaar to generate a market with the people in the city. A formal Thrunragnant (Trade Lord) will be appointed to oversee anything potentially importing into Mallen-Tol from Cephalonia. Throughout the construction tourism was beginning to pop up from time to time. The construction workers managed to build the Charter and the bazaar, allowing Mallen-Tol to receive lucrative trade for the years to come, a bit too much if you ask me.

- Despite major disagreements between the Husbandry Guild, The High Regnant has approved the creation of the Fishery Guild. The main leader of this guild is a man named Petros Greenbrick, a bank-fishermen and also a close friend of the High Regnant. The guild will also oversee what lays beyond Mallen-Tol. Workers in the guild celebrated with drinks that this allowed them to play a role within the kingdom. Petros Greenbrick himself appreciated the High Regant for the honor. Three years passed and Petros Greenbrick enjoyed his new life, drinking a bottle of wine until he grew paler by the second, falling upon the floor until a few workers discovered his body. Greenbrick was dead. This sparked an immediate outrage from the Fishery Guild, claiming it was an act of murder. Several members began to seek out whoever did this, taking justice under their own hands until the Council had something to say about it.

Cephalonia
In 7004, on the suspicion of attacking Cephalonian traders and supporting brigandry in the region the Empire has declared war on the county of Willow. What happens? We'll have to find out...
603340

TECH: Hospitals(1 Turn Remaining)

Events:
  • A Dwarven Charter is placed by Mallen-Tol within the city, causing attraction and generating tourists. Some Cephalonian business owners have even envied them as new competition started.
  • Scouts ventured towards Arajyd and Venita on their given orders.
- Cephalonian scouts are sent outwards to the realms of the Arajyd and Venita. Their sole purpose is to see their numbers and wonder if they exploits any buildings they have such as their castles and cities. When the scouts went out there things went well in the first year. But by the end of the year officials were baffled no reports were happening as none of the scouts returned from their ventures. Few months passed and the scouts were nowhere to be found. Several military spies believed these missing scouts were either killed or captured by people who didn’t want them around for a reason.

- When Cephalonia declared war upon Willow, immediately their standing army split off, heading towards the castle of Willow. Two groups led under Dux Aþalahardus Palaeologos and Juran Blackmont of the Brotherhood marched on their way…

One of the villagers sowed a couple of seeds in a row, a few chickens wandering around like a close pack. The farmer wiped his nose until he heard a few murmurs behind him. He then turned to see many not a couple, but many villagers heading to the outskirts of the castle. The farmer followed a large crowd building so much he could barely see what was the ruckus about. From the distance he witnessed a few soldiers marching but easily became dozens by the second. They all realize the armor each soldier was wearing. All of them marched in columns, side by side riding horses.

Several people who had no care even if it meant a siege drank their lives away in a tavern. A couple of men sat down hearing about the events going down outside the castle. Most likely an upcoming siege. The peasant had a lean look on his face, grimey including a beard. The other is wearing silver plated armor someone would kill for in their lifetime. The peasant sighed, hearing rumors a battle could be starting.

“Something’s happening right now. A siege probably, but I haven’t seen it. Soon they might send us to battle later.” The peasant rambled on.

“You got a castle and people to defend it should one of those people try to assault the place. How it usually goes down is that there’s an agreement between both sides. Battle’s the last thing everyone wants Franco.” The old man explained to the peasant, gulping down on his mug.

“They say there’s another army with them. Someone called a Juran Blackmont. You’re a knight Hunk, know him?” Franco asked.

“Juran Blackmont? He’s an Skalland boy, a long way from home. I met him once during a battle. We won, he didn’t.” Hunk said, drinking down on his ale. The peasant found that hard to believe judging the knight’s appearance based on age. But he simply had to take his word at the moment. But even so, the Imperial Army was now taking their home through harsh force.

“He has a shitload of men backing up that big army as well. If we were smart, we’d surrender.” Franco stated, slouching on his bar stool as he rubbed his face with both hands, tired and just overall compliant if it meant they would go back to their lives in peace.

“Aye. Less of a mess that way.” Hunk agreed, gulping down. Franco chuckled in response, turning to him afterwards.

“You’re a hedge knight, surely you’ve seen many battles and kingdoms out there. What’s your opinion on all of this?” Franco wanted an answer from the seasoned knight, whether he has some useful advice from all of this. Hunk sighed harshly, leaning forward.

“My opinion is worth less than a cow’s shitpile. If I had to answer, I’d say get the surrender over with and don’t let anyone die. Smart soldiers know when to not start a fight. The only number of battles I’ve fought can be counted with one hand. If you fight back with an army like that? Disaster.” Hunk admitted. There were no easy solutions to Willow other than wait out a long siege and sieges determined who fell first from shortages.

“They call themselves the Imperial Army of the Emperor, you believe that?” Franco asked, earning a disgruntled look from the knight.

“No. But I suppose it doesn’t matter when you’re at the mercy of an army, so in a way yes.” Hunk finished up his drink, rising from the table while Franco watched. “Wait where are you going?!” Franco shouted, laying a hand on the table as Hunk put his sealed helmet on.

“What do you think? Out of Willow before their army encircles the castle. Besides I have better things to do.” Hunk exclaimed hands outwards while Franco looked dumbfounded. The Knight walked out of the tavern but not before paying for his drink. Now was the time to leave before the Imperial Army encircled the castle fast..

In a show of brute force and overwhelming numbers. The baron of the castle named Martin Darmer stepped forward and wished to speak with the negotiator. In order to prevent massive deaths in the wake of the battle, he would agree to swear fealty on the condition there will be no bloodshed on this field. The agreement was arranged, prompting the annexation process of the county.

- The imperial bureaucracy is left to be desired for many officials in the city. A tedious but necessary bureau to run and it is no surprise they needed to improve on it. The government created an institution designed to bring bright talent into the mix and to ensure it remains a stable administration. The institution will allow members to learn mathematics, book keeping and linguistics.These traits will hopefully encourage a life of glorious service to the empire. The institution recruited several young members dedicated to the study of book keeping and practiced on their reading. Civic duty is prioritized within the institute despite the few that have joined in the past years.

- With the recent appearance of Spring Fever in Kazarok the Emperor gave order to build plenty of sick houses for the poor and the sick. These constructions were led by the monasteries and churches who believe in the power of the Divine can help their bodies and make sure they don’t suffer as God is always with them. Other sick people were mysteriously healed as sick houses settled many people there, some priests believe it was divine intervention that allowed these miracles to happen. Several groups volunteered in the sick houses to tend to the patients.

- The Empire has accepted the Dwarven economic exchange from Mallen-Tol. As a result of this exchange, rarities from the rocks of Mallen-Tol are now circulated within the economies of the city, with the wealthy buyer purchasing the gems native to the mountains. The sales generated from the luxuries causes a bit of trade to flourish in the city.

Rainbow Grotto
And Rainbow Grotto did what they do best.
603345

TECH: Gnome Organization(1 Turn Remaining)

Events
  • A hybrid mushroom called Blue Rush was created, sold within street corners for every civilian. The substance Smut nicknamed by the locals was considered out.
  • Reconstruction efforts on the planned library is made. Some say Burnwood could still be out there, burning places down.
  • The Gnome named Carl Nickleplenty has won the fourth national lottery in a row, the town council has banned him from playing for winning too much.
- The town of Grotto is definitely not on the world’s safest places to live in but maybe there’s something they could do about it. The people definitely stressed the importance of order and security if they want to prevent another arson incident like last time. Zeek Worm-Foot demanded more guard towers and outposts to project their power and to show who’s the boss around here. The laborers got to work, huffing on burning wood to get the day by and are generally too demotivated. Despite this they kept on working, albeit slowly until they finished their buildings. The frustrated guards stood watch, patrolling the town from criminals.

- Rainbow Grotto is expanding the current town barracks to make sure the Rainbow Guard is accommodated for. They started to expand the barracks using hard lumber, acting all clumsy knocking over stuff. Some even went to work outright drunk, stumbling down and causing hilarious antics. With that said they managed to get all the construction done in due time, with the occasional wall broken.

- After the entire burning library fiasco, the entire Rainbow Guard began to search endlessly for the culprit who did it. Some Gnomes and Humans have even nicknamed this criminal Burnwood. For all they knew Burnwood was still out there, burning other buildings outside of Rainbow Grotto and causing anarchy not because of why, but why not? Rainbow Grotto restarted the construction effort but this time guarded by Rainbow members all day and all night. The burnt wood and all the ashes from the foundation meant they had to start all over again. They chopped down lumber and made a new foundation. These labor Gnomes weren’t like the other drunks and blazed workers but someone who believed there could be something great if they finish the library. And so they were building as best as they could with their materials. The building was half finished, with enough motivation to finish up the place someday...

- Grotto’s knack is to constantly experiment with new mushrooms and mix potions to deliver a very Journey experience. For every mushroom had a different name and a meaning to it. Many gnomes tried Brown Nose, Wax, Smut and even Fizzy Lizzy. But Gnomes wanted new substances and new experiences. With the new alchemists in town, they believe they can help out breeding a new mushroom. During the later months of 7002, the gnomes crossbred a mushroom they found into the wild with blue fungus. After much testing they called it the Blue Rush for its glowing blue properties. A few willing volunteers tasted the hybrid mushrooms, having a feeling of adrenaline pumped through their blood while a few criticized that it doesn’t have enough favor.

- The town of Grotto had mages to help on them improving their community. These transmutation mages were ordered to convert the natural earth into something non-earth like stone to replace the wooden palisade. Now, when it comes to transmutation you must always understand what you’re converting in the first place. Mud is filthy, it’s soft and it comes from the earth. But if you wish to convert it to say stone, you’ll want to understand rocks. They’re hard and they are pretty dense. Figuring out the properties of these two different things is a study in of itself. The mages worked hard on converting mud and dirt together to something that can at least imitate. A day later and the target element was converted to a soft but light material similar to boiled leather.

- The town needed more fun in its life, introducing a National lottery to encourage spending and that means more currency for the government. The way how to play is that citizens buy tickets at the town hall and people play to win while the town draw names, if someone wins they must claim a prize within the day or left empty handed for the next sucker. The first few games went well and it allowed a steady income for the town until other cunning citizens started their own gambling dens. Although the gambling dens barely harmed the lottery system, it could pose a bigger threat down the line.

Riflheim
The road to glory is a challenge many upcoming kingdoms fell, forgotten through time. But not William the Black for he was an ambitious king. There's a saying from the locals they memorized to visitor: Through the Fire, Unburnt.
603366

TECH: Sewage Disposal(1 Turn Remaining)

Events:
  • Zealots within the city have begun to spread their Phoenix beliefs to foreign villages, converting them in the name of the one true god.
  • Fresh water is channeled through the recently repaired aqueduct. People who are found exerting waste onto the river will be found and executed.
  • The mages are seen honing their skills, gathering pupils to take under their wing so they can kick start college research
- The larger population of Riflheim always needs a steady supply of horses in hand for transportation. The Riflheim army only had 100 Cavalry should they gather their bannermen for battle so they obviously needed to recruit more people for the job. During the course of the year they requested more soldiers on horseback to all lords. The lands within Riflheim raised up to at least 39 Cavalrymen in the process.

- The first construction on the College of Magic failed to live up to expectations. But William the Black needed to make this vision happen no matter the expenses. He increased the budget to divert more effort in building the college, laying out the place while the Engineers finally decided to work together as a team. Setting up lumber and stone and picking up the pace than the last time. The engineers and builders made rather nice progress, setting up the quarters and their altars for the Phoenix.

- Meanwhile the workers of Riflheim were given an incentive with much better pay and food to start rebuilding the water plumbing around the city. Several gave it their best to replace old plumbing and to improve work on the aqueduct. With better payment increasing their motivation, these workers made a lot of improvements. The result is that the aqueducts allowed had better water channeling supplying public water. It wasn’t the best water but they were sure to work on it.

- Not convinced this world is pure, the Church of the Phoenix expands to the outskirts of the city. Their intention was to spread the good word and if everyone believed it, they would be saved for eternity and immortalized. While converting degenerates wasn’t a huge success than the Church hoped it would be, their newest members promised to the god they would remain faithful to their families and wives. The members are seen placing altars in village centers while many non-believers harassed the folks.

- After witnessing such filth, the Kingdom invested in passionate entrepreneurs who could restore glory to the economy and not on putting business to brothels. The businessmen and elites were supported, getting to work on starting new businesses like housing and sick houses for the poor and sick. They easily generated profit for the government, allowing brothels to have competition in the long run.

- Riflheim during the three winter span has occasionally traded silver towards Hildemar in exchange for steel and metal. As a result several caravans from Hildemar traveled to the city, supplying the city with iron plates and chainlinks for mail armour. This satisfied the armorsmiths just enough to make it worth their while.

...

Lesson of the Year: The Elven Supremacy

The Elven people are a species who live pretty long lives, enjoy a great living when they got a lot of time on their hands. No wonder why some of them come across as arrogant.

They say that the god Maegon considered the Elven people the black sheep among his creations, the Dragons being his personal favorite. Back then in Ancient Numerya, Elves controlling dragons through dragon horns and whips were a common sight. One way to interpret that is the Elves wanted to please Maegon to show them in a stronger light even if it meant they had to exert control over the dragons.

One of the brightest cities within Elven civilization is Altheim, a cultural capital that has stagnated over the years due to the Elven Wars. Imagine a city built by skilled mages specialized in architecture, plumping that can make a Dwarve hard. Altheim was probably one of the happiest places to live if you were an Elve. But there was a reason why that all changed. Wanna know why? Currency and culture.

When two big powers coexist, only one shall prevail in the end. The Adelram Empire and Altheim were different, culturally and religiously, and it showed. When Adelram formed in 6280, Gaelron, The Black Prince envied them but continued to rule his kingdom as he saw fit. Gaelron was pious and devoted to serving the one true god Maegon. His idol Maegon rode his large dragon Azrael and it left little surprise he was glorified as a great god but possessed pride than any known Elve in the world. Gaelron sought out to be just like the god and demanded his subjects to find him a dragon worthy to be his. The search lasted for years as he rejected from the smallest to the largest until he founded one dragon, not small but not massive either. Gaelron named the fast dragon Azran after the great dragon Azrael.

Gaelron and his dragon set out to carve a mighty empire for himself, dealing with neighbor factions and conquered them through superior might. When his territory increased, so did his arrogance. Every faction problem his subjects discussed with him resulted in him solving it with dragon fire, engulfing enemy fortifications and fields. The commoners slowly started to hate him.

It wasn’t until the Adelram Empire and Gaelron’s own Kingdom coexisted that tensions rose up. The difference between the Divine God and the Maegon religion already contradicted each other, leaving the people to call each other heathens and infidels. Naerys the Good’s reign promised a hope spot between the two but it fell once Warrior Century happened. Naerys was responsible in keeping foreign relations on a bright note, even allowing non-humans to live as citizens which caused a severe distrust between races. Despite her noble outlook regarding treating everyone as equals, the public spoke out against this, especially those loyal to the Divine God like the White Wardens.

Warrior Century was the era of Adelram Rulers who did not tolerate Elven relations starting with Raela, the daughter of Gregor the Hunter. Sons and daughters have a standard they would try to live up to in comparison to their fathers and mothers. Even though Gregor the Hunter distanced himself from Gaelron’s territory, his daughter would always believe Elven supremacy was on the horizon, constantly training and commanding soldiers to make sure they were ready. When Gregor the Hunter had finally died in battle, the line of succession went towards Raela.

Her coronation allowed a series of changes within the Empire, changing non-human tolerance and would be considered the catalyst to the Elven Wars. Elven Kingdoms were no strangers to Kazarok politics, they too believed Human dominance within the continent would be their downfall and they were right in the end. Raela the Warrior launched a grand holy war denouncing Gaelron’s empire and gathered as much bannermen as she could to fight the enemy.

The Elven Wars was a brutal conflict between Empire vs Empire and many believed it might be the most deadliest strife in our known history. Thousands have easily died from humans, dwarves, elves, down to the diseased riddled battles. And it lasted for centuries until Everyn V Stormstrum invaded Altheim and killed Gaelron along with Azran. The aftermath within the Elven Wars showed even Elven society weren’t invincible to the harsh world.

...

TURN END
SEND IN AS TURN 3, The due date is July 23 2019. Grace Period is 24-29th.
 
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- Rainbow Grotto -
- Embassy of New Heldon -

AxDZoLH.jpg
In a quaint cottage on the outskirts of town, with its back against the deep forest and a meticulously well-maintained wooden fence surrounding a small plot of land, sat the official embassy of New Heldon. It was not a particularly spacious establishment, but with a common room and two private rooms, it served its necessary purpose as a non-expensive establishment representing the great nation of angels. The location of the embassy was left entirely to the discretion of Ambassador Serah Dressca, constrained only by the small budget granted by the Saint's councilors. It was expected that an embassy would be near the heart of the capital it was established in, but given the... eccentricities of the gnomes and the recent arson, it was decided the embassy would stand strong by itself at a pleasant and safe distance from the excitement of the inner city. If the embassy did well for a few years, their budget would see a fine raise, with the possibility of more staff and a more prestigious location. It had been almost a year now since they got comfortably settled in, and with three guards and one clerk assisting the ambassador, they were managing fairly well.

"Its called Blue Rush, you say? What makes this one any more interesting than the other oddities these people ingest like bread and water?" Ambassador Dressca asked, staring at the small bowl on the table. Inside of it were several small, glowing blue mushrooms.

Franco Rosse, her assistant and writing clerk, cleared his throat. "Madam, these may have a more practical application over the more, ah, recreational delicacies the gnomes prefer. That is not to say that those particular edibles are worthless, either. The former may have a market in New Heldon, and the latter elsewhere. Allow me to explain.... The Blue Rush mushroom here has been labeled fairly tasteless. Not something appealing to those that consume these on the regular. But its effect - it gives the user what can be said to be a surge of confidence and adrenaline. I've tested this with young Sir Kafka, who was more than eager to assist, and its true. It took a short time for the feeling to finally occur, but when it did, Sir Kafka explained that he felt particularly aware and faster. I observed him under the influence of this substance as he sparred with the other two and while he didn't seem particularly faster by an observers perspective, he was notably precise and did not fatigue as fast. He was able to duel two men at the same time and even keep them on the back foot. He felt this way for nearly a couple hours before he began to grow tired and, well, slept for some hours before waking with an insatiable appetite. I do not know if these affects are the same for all of us or differ from person to person, but I think it is clear the implications these mushrooms could have in a... military sense."

"So thats what all the business was about the other day. I see. That is rather interesting. You think we could give these to warriors to boost their performance? Not a particularly noble idea and I doubt the knights would particularly approve in court, but in war... well, anything to get an edge. However, if the effects wear off too fast and make the user fatigued, then that could be an issue."

"Of course, madam. I think we would need to test these further, but I think we should pursue this. Enter a contract to procure these mushrooms and observe their effects in real combat back home. Though I suspect we can do more. We sell them. Sell them elsewhere. This place is, pardon my speaking, at the ass end of no where. Its all wilderness between here and home, and even back home we aren't near to the great states of the continent. We're the buffer between these gnomes and the world. Say we buy a crate of Blue Rush for ten coins and sell it for double - maybe triple - to other nations. Thats a pretty source of coin, don't you think? The same applies to the other more wild and recreational herbs, though we can... keep those sparse in New Heldon."

Ambassador Dressca contemplated the proposal. She had full authority to pursue anything that could benefit New Heldon. They had a fair sum of money to use to this purpose, and if they could purchase a few crates to send home with the instructions to test and trade them to merchants....

"We'll pursue this, to a degree. It would be foolish to dive head first into a venture we know little about, but I think we can find more potential taking this slowly. Head to town and find someone who can officially assist us in this venture. New Heldon will pay for the procurement of Blue Rush and other edibles. They don't need to know we are going to resell them, not that I think they will ask."

Franco Rosse stood and bowed low, his white wings twitching at the anticipation of flight. "Of course, madam. I shall be off now and return as soon as I can."

"Good. And take Sir Kafka with you. Never travel this place alone."

The young angel set off with his guard, flying towards the center of town to reach representatives of the government for this deal.
 
-Rainbow Grotto-
-Town Hall-

Old Zeek stumbled through the creaky doorway of town hall, late as usual for the weekly meeting of elders and aldermen. Unlike many buildings in Rainbow Grotto the town hall was specifically built to be able to accommodate humans and other tall peoples who may wander through the pearly gilded gates of Zeek's paradise. The founder of their Eden however usually struggled with opening the door, blaming it at times on his "arthritis" and other times blatantly on intoxication. The other councilors tolerated it to an extent with him though, he did afterall lead them to their new home and exposed them to a new and exciting way of communicating with the divine. Yet even so...the example he set for the other members of the community led to calamity on more than one occasion. For who could forget how during the funeral of Mrs. Plumbottom Zeek and a posy of young gnomes stumbled into the affair naked and foaming at the mouths. all before unceremoniously falling into the grave dug for the her. The poor woman's daughter fainted on the spot!

Zeek breathed into his hand, attempting to gain knowledge of its odor. To his dismay it reeked of mead, sour crab apples, and...was that some kind of aged cheese? Regardless, he gagged at the affront to his nostrils before taking in his surroundings. The side room they had built to accommodate the lottery box office was flooding out the door with hopeful winners, some crying, some fighting, and some deciding it was a good place to sit down and have a smoke. Seeing this, he was reminded of his own ornate pipe filled with a mix of mint and sage, it didn't knock his rocks off like the new Blue Rush but it calmed his old nerves.

Lighting the thing and walking towards the Meeting Room he knew he was in for another headache as soon as he opened the door. Was it even worth going in? Could he feign sickness? Maybe even death? It worked once before but they were pretty mad when they found him in bed with a young (former) maid the day after the funeral. With a sigh he opened the door in front of him, hobbling in only to see the councilors engaged in quite the heated argument.

"What do you mean the Guild can't identify this Burnwood character. The entire town is in a tizzy and all you lily-livers can offer is an excuse of 'he didn't register?' That you can't find him? " The ox of a gnome Elder Gorm Red-Cheeks bellowed, his large belly and second chin jiggling with each word of frustration. The crimson color of his face reminded Zeek of a newborn's rump after the mid-wife gave it a paddle. He laughed to himself at that.

"The entire point of the Guild is to keep a track of known criminals so they know they are safe in the Grotto and can freely look for contracts, If our spies don't report to us that someone is suspect there's nothing we can do about it! Burnwood must've been either a damn good hider or this is his first offense!" Guildmaster George "The Hawk" Barton retorted to the overweight Elder. It was odd to see a human so high in power in Grotto affairs but he was a damn good thief and he kept the four rules in check so long as he and his gang could coordinate heists and contracts from within the town.

"POPPYCOCK! TOMFOOLERY! I SAY SHENANIGANS!" Gorm shouted, his entire body seeming to emanate heat in his frustration. The other counciolrs looked on in mild boredom, Gorm was known for his temper and they'd had this discussion numerous times in the past year since the Library burned down initially. It seemed the old gnome was going senile in his continuous repetition of accusations against the Thieves' Guild, even though they proved themselves a vital secret police time and time again.

"Brothers, Brothers, Settle down. We'll find that Burnwood guy in good time, it's like my old pappy used to tell me. You can eat a grape, but if you wait long enough you'll get a raisin. And raisin's my friends are delicious." Zeek spoke these words of wisdom as he approached his seat in the middle of their circular table. The other ten members of the council wore confused looks trying to figure out what the hell the Old man was talking about. "Anyways, my comrades besides the arsonist mumbo jumbo, is there any other pressing matters of concern?"

"We've gotten some more orders for Blue Rush from a few of the neighboring villages, it seems they've gotten quite the kick out of the stuff and how it makes their prickers tingle." The gathering of gnomes giggled a bit at that, excluding Gorm who still sat in his chair pouting shooting daggers at George.

"That's most excellent news, it seems we may have a new export on our hands gentlemen! Now we can spread the joy of our way of life to the outside world who are unaware of the experience, most righteous" The table collectively nodded, they may not be as cooky as Zeek but they shared his vision of a world that new the pleasures of the plants and fungi.
 
- Rainbow Grotto -
- Town Hall -

It did not take long for Junior-Ambassador Franco Rosse and Sir Kafka to arrive at the town hall in the proper city limits of Rainbow Grotto. The two angels circled over the building once, then glided down to land in an open spot once it seemed clear. Landings were always nicer back in New Heldon where roof access to many angel-specific buildings was standard. Some buildings could only be accessed by the roof, though those establishments were often few since they catered only to pure angels. Even the half-breeds that could manage a weak flight weren't allowed in. While many of the aristocracy were wanting to eliminate some discriminatory actions to promote the national unity, not all felt that way.

"[How long must we be here, sir? This place is a disorderly trash heap,]" Sir Kafka said, speaking in the native language of the angels. It was a near certainty that few, if any, here spoke the language fluently. Still, Franco Rosse sent a stern look at the knight.

"[Manners, sir knight, manners, please. We are here on important business to further the glory of Heldon.]"

The knight bowed his head as an apology and followed the Junior-Ambassador into the town hall. They had been here a number of times and were familiar in this place. It was fortunate the construction was made to also benefit the human inhabitants, as Franco Rosse was unsure if he would be able to stand the indignity of having to stoop into a building. Sir Kafka would undoubtedly balk at that, too.

They spoke with the officials present and waited for entry into the council chamber, or Meeting Hall as they officially called it. When the time came, they entered with all the stately grace they could muster. Many considered the angels to be arrogant, which was perhaps not entirely untrue. Acting went a long way, regardless.

"Esteemed wise men of Rainbow Grotto, we thank you for allowing us entry into your humble place of meeting. We do not wish to take up too much of your valuable time; however, I come at the behest of Ambassador Dressca to discuss a matter of mutual benefit for New Heldon and this great nation," Franco Rosse said, opening with a low and magnificent bow and speaking in a clipped, accented version of the gnome language. He was proficient in several angel dialects and a few entirely foreign languages as well. An invaluable trait for anyone working with an ambassador.

"We would like to organize the official and continued purchase of Blue Rush, as well as..." he went on to list several more prominent mind-altering edibles," ... so that we may utilize them as necessary for New Heldon. Our contract would be an official, legal, and wholly sanctioned state document between New Heldon and Rainbow Grotto, carrying with it all the benefits that entails." And the consequences, Franco Rosse added mentally.

"A deal of this nature can only serve to bring prosperity to us both, and bring us closer in this turbulent world."

Franco Rosse smiled and delivered his words with elegance, and even Sir Kafka managed to maintain a neutral, if haughty, expression in the back.
 
-Rainbow Grotto-
-Town Hall-

The eyes of Councilors grew wide at the implications of the deal these Angelic men brought with them. Not only would such trade be a boon for the town itself but it could provide them with enough capital to expand the Rainbow guard, and bring the neighboring villages under their authority. After all, farmland was growing more and more scarce as migrants flocked to the lands and more was devoted to the growing and maintenance of large patches of Mycelium. Two gnomish secretaries meanwhile brought forward two large chairs for the Angels to sit in. They were large even for a human as the council wanted to be prepared for any size rump that might grace them with its presence.

Zeek chewed on his lip thinking over the ambassador's words. He had lived his whole life in the cabbage and peanut patches of his people living a simple life. When they made the great trek from their ancestral homeland in Kazarok up the river Litly he envisioned that the tranquility he had always lived would continue. But when he found the mushrooms in the woods of Grensvep he found revelation through their consumption that he wanted to share with the world. Now that the prospect was sitting right before him and it frightened him to no end. Even in his old age, nearing his third century, succeeding in his life's work was still a sublime feeling, one he was unsure how to react to.

The Grotto needed to grow if it was going to continue to thrive and its people allowed to live their lives in peace. Rumors from the north spoke of bandits and monsters descending down the slopes of the mountains to pluck up the unsuspecting and helpless. They would need to be well prepared should any beastly folk find their way to his stoop. While the others were murmuring to themselves over the proposal he decided to speak.

"That's a tall order from a tall drink of water ambassador. In order to produce enough supply to adequately fill the mouths and minds of New Heldon we'd need time to expand our fields and irrigation systems. Luckily fungi are very fast growers, but spreading the mycelium takes quite some time. It can be done all the same simply the delay I warn you about." He pauses to stroke his long and mangled beard in contemplation of further actions needed to set up meaningful trade. "There is also of course the matter of transportation and payment. The former is easy enough in shipping, the river Litly flows right into the Middle Sea and from there we can sail to your end of the waters. However in sending goods or even merchants back to us of course there is some complication..."

The other councilors looked strikingly at Zeek, the old bastard still had the some sense of governance and trade even after fifty years of frequent use of the plants. But they still feared that he could mess things all up if he wasn't careful. It wouldn't be the first time he frightened off prospecting traders.

"If we were given proper re-imbursement for our commodities...we may be able to establish an trading post at the mouth of the river to expediate trade and communications between our nations indefinitely. For the river Litly is long and going up stream, while mostly amiable, the fishing and farming peoples of the valley are not always fond of strangers. Having an easier means of access would eliminate the threat of any unfortunate accidents." He concluded by sitting back into his chair and taking a long puff from his pipe, negotiations had begun.
 
- Rainbow Grotto -
- Town Hall -

The two angels took their seats in the large chairs, though Kafka needed a look from Franco Rosse to do so after he nearly complained. A chair too big was like a chair too small. The Junior-Ambassador listened closely to Zeek's words, cringing at some of them and nodding inwardly to others. It seemed the strange little gnome was more capable than he had anticipated. That was something he couldn't admit to Dressca, least he get a good smack on the head for a silly underestimation.

With a polite and entirely civil laugh, Franco Rosse nodded. "Of course, sir. I would like to amend, though, that we do not plan to, ah, fill all the mouths and minds in New Heldon. Simply a select few. To begin with we only wish to purchase a moderate amount to... explore with. As it stands, we do not know the effect many of these substances may have on our constitutions, and angels can have delicate appetites. I only envision perhaps a dozen crates or barrels at most for right now."

"As for your proposal for transit, a trading post is a most excellent idea, and in fact, I believe we are working to establish several on the bountiful waterways near home. If I may suggest the establishment of one on an island in the Middle Sea rather than at the mouth of the Litly. Islands are more defensible, after all." And its less distance for our traders, if only by a small margin.

"Concerning payment, we are more than happy to pay with coin, though we can also offer labor services for architectural and military matters. We have a long history of applying our souls to such matters. Additionally, and for this I cannot speak with full certainty, but we may be able to loan junior mages skilled in white magic to assist in whatever work is necessary."

Experience was always good. Out here in these distant lands, soldiers itching for a fight, budding architects, and student mages could all work a little more unhindered.
 
-Rainbow Grotto-
-Town Hall-

Zeek smiled at the notion that the Angels and their folk would be satisfied with only a dozen barrels worth of the power the Grotto’s plants offered. “We have been in great need of engineers architects as of late, if you haven’t noticed the entire Town and its surroundings have been undergoing quite the major renovations. That being said, if you could send a few of them our way along with a mage of White magic to assist in the Academy of Alchemy it would be a great service to my people and the advancement of medicine.”

He pauses quickly to take a puff of his herbal pipe. “ As for the trade post we’re gonna have to settle for the mouth of the river. If you haven’t guessed by our small statures gnomes generally take to the ocean like a fish to trees. However, we’ll see if we can’t wrangle enough humans together to set up base on an island as well, if nothing more than to protect the waters. Of course the entire operation depends on our ability to defend such a post from the riff raff, bandits, brigands, bumpkins, whatever might plague them.

He ushers a secretary to bring him his ledger, filled with the names of all the Grotto’s inhabitants, their professions, marital status, and personal minutia. Putting on his spectacles he checks under the current listings of the Rainbow Guard. “We should be able to spare twenty-five guardsmen to protect such a trading post, if you can replicate those numbers than we can send an expedition down the Litly on the morrow.” He closes the book with a smack, putting his spectacles back into his pocket and once more taking a long inhale from his personal medicine.
 
- Rainbow Grotto -
- Town Hall -

"Defense of the post should be of no issue, I suspect. Heldon can easily provide these numbers. The Kazirian Legion may also wish to have a stake in this. I do not speak for them; however, they are faithful allies and this type of work is their specialty. If they do agree to assist in the defense, we will handle their payment as well," Franco Rosse explained. Hopefully they could get that island trading post. It would be better that way for... pretty much all reasons.

"It takes a little over a week of travel in good weather and time to reach New Heldon, and same back. We will send one of our men that way to relay information of this deal and on return, I suspect we shall have the needed members to defend the trading post. The facility may also benefit from other general trade goods. There are always river merchants looking for new markets."
 
-Rainbow Grotto-
-Town Hall-

“Certainly, turning the mouth of the Litly into a trade hub would benefit the entire region. As for the business with the Kazirian Legion and an island fortress...” He sits back scratching his beard and thinking things over as to how to settle any potential disagreement. “Perhaps they could occupy an island off the coast of the mouth of the river. From there they could protect ships going across the waters and to their destinations. We do similar operations with the Rainbow Guard afterall, leasing them to caravans for protection. That way neither of us need to divert too many resources to guarding the waters and we have an island to protect trade.”​

He leans back into his chair once again expecting that the matter had been adjourned. “Once your man returns with the positive reply we’ll start working with some of the local merchants to set up shops down by the river mouth. I can’t imagine any of them passing up such a lucrative offer.” He pauses recalling Old Man Johansson and his selective attitude to selling his exquisite wooden figurines. He might pass up the offer but the others wouldn’t.
 
- Rainbow Grotto -
- Town Hall -

The two angels agreed to the terms and departed, heading back to their embassy and discussing the matter with the ambassador. She also felt the terms were acceptable, and the next day two of the guards set off back to New Heldon to rely the information to the government. They purchased transit on a small ship that could take them most of the way before they could encounter people from Heldon who could ferry them back home. Still, due to water hazards, some of the journey had to be completed on foot and it took well over a week for them to arrive.

In New Heldon, the councilors handled the matter with Saint Elise's approval. The terms were acceptable and a treaty was written up by a lowly clerk before it was double checked and signed. Word was sent to the Kazirian Legion by messenger to inform them that they were welcomed into this joint partnership if they wished to include at least ten people. Once their answer had been received, a larger hulled ship was organized to get them through most of the journey before they had to carry on by foot again. In the expedition were ten Heldon soldiers, six of which were half-breeds, the other four pure angels. With the volunteers were a doctor, two clerks, the original two embassy guards, a white mage of intermediate level and her novice, an experienced architect and his assistant, and a trio of engineering students - including whoever had been sent by the Kazirian Legion.

It was over three weeks before the group arrived safely at the Rainbow Grotto to carry out their mission.
 
-The Great Reforms of Rainbow Grotto-
-The Five Proclamations-

On this, the 20th day of the fourth month of the 7005th year of the world, the Prophet Zeek Worm-Foot “Enlightened of the Seed” issued the following declarations and edicts after receiving a most auspicious revelation from the creator who he has deemed fit to call “The Gardener”. Written here now are the words given to his people as he spoke them.
  • “The 1st and 7th days of the week are to be set aside as days of rest, community service, and meditation. It is on these days that the consumption of the blessed fruits of the earth provided by the Gardener are to be consumed. For we have been instructed to engage in temperance and fraternity. Thusly you all are instructed, and encouraged, to spend one of the days in meditation and contemplation of the Gardener and other committing to communal work to better society around you. This can come in many forms such as tending to the commons, cleaning trash from the streets, and providing alms for the poor. “

  • “Sages shall be appointed from amongst the most enlightened of the Grotto. In particular those who posses great virtue, self-control, and a peaceful nature shall guide the faithful on their journey in this life and in communion with the Gardener. For the road to temperance and peace is a long and arduous one and having mentors along the way will bring one closer, sooner, to the divine. “

  • “It is hereby proclaimed, by the word of God, that the consumption of natural vegetation and fungi allow us to shine brighter in the eyes of the Gardener amongst the uncountable stars that make up its gaze. However, with temperance and the organized use of them we may create a shining beacon amongst the starlight that even the Gardener cannot ignore. “

  • “Guilds shall be established across the realm with every artisan, merchant, and farmer being made an automatic member of their respective profession’s guild. As people move into our lands they may apply to join the guild and thus secure for themselves and their descendants an honorable profession. This is both to regulate the production, quality, and sale of goods, services, and crops as well as promote organization, cooperation, and general fraternity amongst our people. “

  • “From this day forth we shall never engage in a war of aggression and will respect the territories of our neighbors and hopeful friends. Instead we will protect what we have, and offer protection to those without it. For the Gardener has commanded us to take up the mantle of peace, and so let it reign forever more in our blessed lands. “
((OOC: Additional supplemental story about Zeek’s encounter with the Gardener ))
 

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