"Lost Continent: Flight From Muurdaan" (BeckonCall's FNB!)

[Spacekitty]

ON THE ORDERS OF THE MUURDAAN AUTHORITY;
THE HIGHBORN ORDERS Prince Vaethorion

Spring cleaning was a great success – the melting ice castles fed fountains and water features as they flowed away from the cliffside and into the sewers. The Highborn quarter bloomed and practically glowed in the spring sunshine. It was a model example to colony morale that the worst was now behind them (+1 influence Highborn)

The Inking… Without the Highborn archmage specifying, SpiralErrant , Nootri the skinchanter considered his gift to the highborn in the form of a tatoo was a challenge to prove his worth – so he set asure that this work would be a masterpiece. The near-forbidden design of “Total Power” was inked into sleeves of tattoos for the archmage, enabling him, for one battle, to harness the full winds of magic – every spell he would cast would be overcharged, every whim of the mage a command to the fabric of reality and ether. “With these Sigils you may one day save the colony from a great enemy – speak well of Nootri and the Tyren, who give you this gift.”

The Villas: With the Reinen gone, it was an easy move to annex the reinen land and a swathe of the riverside to expand the highborn villas. Splendorous houses to the naked eye, they were connected by tunnels beneath, streets could be closed by rapidly winched barricades, and every window and wall hid subtle arrow slits that also served to kiss the buildings with sun and moonlight. The enchanted earth, thanks to the Tyren and other powers, did indeed turn the riverside into a garden of flowers, something that impressed all who passed it. (+2 influence highborn – “Garden District” created”)

Below the Highborn – It was amazing how quickly and thoroughly the ratkin had honeycombed the colony with tunnels – but with spywork and scrying, such tunnels were found and sealed first leading into the highborn and theater districts, then the kurt collapsing of the tunnels inside themselves. (No tunnels exist in highborn and theater districts previously hidden by the ratkin) The sewers still ran mighty and strong beneath the districts, but the highborn had left things to alert them after they cleared the districts of secret passages. The sewers are mapped to a degree that it allows quick access to the Library District, and The Menagerie District and Botanical district – a previously undiscovered area of the ruin (being in a lower point in the city than street level) overgrown with hanging gardens.

Fennec Trouble… The highborn answered the call for aid, and soon all assets in the Theater district had been siezed. Following that, they marched north and occupied the excavation with Caelis' forces – but there seemed to be no battle to be had. Another handful of fennec were captured from hiding in the theater district, but these were mostly newcomers and recently employed fennec that knew little of larger operations…. The Spymaster wondered if something seemed too orchestrated about the “scattering” – not nearly enough tracks lead away from the excavation it seemed, but no ways of ingress hideen or unhidden could be found that could house the number of fennec which would therefore be hiding. Powerful anti-scrying magic and illusions were at play, but whether they actually hid the fennec or misdirected from where they were was impossible to tell.

 

[Spacekitty]

ON THE ORDERS OF THE MUURDAAN AUTHORITY:
THE MERDWARF ARRIVAL

Sea dwarves arrive in the colony waters! Their submarine, upgraded at port cestus to exacting specifications to survive the voyage to the new world, had barely fulfilled it's purpose. Regular bilging became required as the elements and speed ravaged their conveyance, and when they passed through the barrier they knew their submarine was on it's last leg before breaking down. They would be able to quickly scan the immediate coast, and make landing at the seaport with precious little distance left before the sub became a glorified pile of scavenge. In their approach they Identified shallow mesas off the coast of the colony with deep trenches between them… shallow pearl-beds nestled the center-most of these Flooded Islands – another point of interest was the howling isle, a pit of great depth seemed to surround the island underwater to unguessable depth, but quickly the pits were filled with darkness. Beyond this they saw that most of the cliff had a shelf of moderate depth containing a deep jungle of Seaweed forest beyond which shelf's cliff was a deep deep dropoff where white sea-plants seemed to wave from deep below. Against th e cliffside itslef were two places most suitable for initial habitation – a flooded cave system they quickly named Sunken Shoals, these caverns were 70% flooded and filled with coral and seemingly for the most part innocuous but beautiful sea life. Another cave system, the Deep Vault was lit by bioluminescent lichen and was completely flooded – it was a singular large chamber closer to the base of the shelf.

Discovered of course were also the Shark Holes but the sub was not in a condition to investigate them. East of the waterfall but beneath the surface were wide ranges of coral-bed patches with seeming roads or pathways carved between them, as if the repeated treading or feeding of giant sea-life had beaten paths between the reefs. Lastly before the sub could almost be pushed no further the sub detected a deep dropoff under the waterfall, and the telltale glow of geothermal activity below… a Firetrench. The Sea Dwarves had precious little time left before their sub became a wreck – would they land and greet their neighbors in the colony, or investigate one or more of these areas further? Time would tell...

 

[Heyitsjiwon]

With the surrendering of the fennec leader and 7 Hooded Ones, the Attolian host partially withdrew. Allowing the hiding fennec to tend to their greenhouses and their brewery with the except of certain brews which were ordered to be confiscated and presented to the healer's guild and science guild for further testing. Initial tests showed that they were laced. This was to be confirmed by third parties. Certain alchemy equipment was also confiscated for further testing as well. Regardless, the Attolians left 10 Halberdiers, 10 Swarm Infantry, and 10 Kriegan Banner Infantry to hold the excavation with Sir Tristian. One Attolian Astrologer and Spellbreaker were left to work on cracking the illusions and wards at the excavation. The rest returned to the Attolian Housing Quarters. Caelis looked forward to the tribunal, but security was hightened. The Mage's Guild and the Colonial Government was asked to help with the situation. The ratkin tunnels were a matter that still had to be dealt with. The Elite Housemen were also recalled to the Attolian Housing District.

Edit:

General Deth Glitch
The Attolians also ordered an investigation to begin for the Ratkin tunnels and ask the Firebeard Dwarves for their expertise as a third party on the matter to determine where these tunnels are and how the tunnels were collapsed.

 

[Beckoncall]

VICTORIAN FOUNTAIN DEFILED! TWIN FOUNTAINS RUN WITH BLOOD!!!

Culprits unknown, some agent of the fountain has profaned the holy victorian fountain, causing it to run, like it's sister fountain, red with blood. The power of the Fountain Entity grows in strength! Who knows what powers conspire with it? What does two bloody fountains mean for the 'Platz and greater colony!?!

Concern in colony rises about power of blood fountain(s)!

 

[Heyitsjiwon]

These were hectic times... Caelis could barely keep abreast with all these issues going on. Upon returning from the occupation of the Fennec, he learned of the second fountain. The matters of gods were a dangerous thing... he should have never let Cassandra even speak to the fountain. Each time he saw her... his heart simply sank. He mounted his horse and disappeared from the Housing District for a few hours, presumably to clear his mind. When he turned, he had a bounce in his step and a fiery determination in his eyes. He quickly called his advisors and gave his spirited orders. Such energy hadn't been seen in months.

First, reports came that the health of the Brood Mother was in decline as she simply had too many eggs. This was an opportunity for the Hiver Princes to have their own colony once more. He gave his blessing for the Quarter Master to assist the Brood Mother with this medical procedure. As a precaution, Dr. Fleming was also asked to make sure of her health.

Next, the Attolians simply needed more labor. Thus, Talion was ordered to animate skeletons to help with the situation. The Colony had numerous sources of bones that he could pick from, the ruins, the great trees, hell the forest themselves were likely full of bones. This was his specialty and the artist was left to his own creative genius.

It was becoming ever more apparent that the lands were dangerous with the recent incidents. Safety was a top concern. Thus, the Attolian soldiers, no strangers to making fortified positions, began to secure the areas of Attolian presence with the assistance of the Attolian experts and additional labor provided by the citizens. These were their homes, and had to become extremely safe and defensible areas. The knowledge that the Ratkin tunnels ran everywhere was concerning. Such paths could be used by anyone who knew of them... imagine the damage that the Mud Elves could have done if they knew.

The sirens were sent diving once more. However, this time they headed more inland and went back to the Lake. In the time that they had been gone since the first time, it was now safe to explore the eastern side of the lake. Plus, they would see the unfortunate remains of the Gew Gaws. They had left quickly as they had come.

Upon hearing the general discontent of Attolian peers, Caelis thought it was prudent to assist the downcast in the Colony as well. Thus, he ordered the Pantheon Priest to begin giving sermons in the Attolian Temple. It could fit many thanks to the Earth tear. However, more importantly, the priest was then to give alms out after the service. Hopefully, this was a good step in the right direction to reduce the resentment among the Attolian peers while begin to properly educate people of the Attolian Pantheon.

With the Learner's Square now cleared out, it was time for a grand opening of the year. This meant that Caelis asked numerous Attolian experts to give master classes and lectures in a grand bonanza of learning and curiosity. One could learn of a wide variety of subjects from Attolian experts from Attolian literature and poetry to finding a shrewd deal in the market. Both the liberal arts and more technical classes were to be offered and word went out to all.

With the farming work set, work also had to start quickly on building granaries to store all the food that had been planted.

Finally, Caelis asked several experts to examine the tunnel collapse to determine the cause. Other 3rd party experts are encouraged and asked to join to assist this examination.

---

1. Assist the Brood Mother by sending a Hiver Prince with her egg problem
Hiver Prince Quarter Master, Dr. Flemming

2. Creation of skeletons for additional labor
Talion the Constructor + his wraith assistants (Unknown Number), University Death Mage, Magical Workshop in the Blasted Hearth, Fire Mana Crystals, Ivory Sceptor

3. Securing/Fortifying the Attolian Housing District and the Port
1 Architect, 5 Engineers, 1 Astrologer, 20 Attolian Swarm Infantry, 20 Kriegan Banner Infantry, Naval Captain, 40 Sea Wolves, 39 Unskilled Laborers, 10 Skilled Laborers, 2 Stone Constructs, 15 Sirens, cranes

4. Explore the tower that sank in the Lake above the Cliffs
Explorer, 20 Sirens, 2 Stone Constructs

5. Give sermons to promote the Pantheon and provide alms to those in need
Pantheon Priest, 1 Wealth

6. Give lectures and master classes at the Learner's Square in a grand celebration of the Square opening once more.
Writer, Historian, Linguist, Lawyer, Trader, Herbalist, Agriculturalist, Preserver, Printing Press

7. Granary construction within the Attolian Housing District
1 Architect, 30 Unskilled Workers, 10 Skilled Workers

8. Investigation of the tunnel collapse with help from other Colonists if they offer
Hiver Prince (Miner/Sapper), Sheriff, Chemist, Gnome Chemist, 4 Former Thralls,

 

[Beckoncall]

Voyagers return!

Personalities and agents sent to the new world are not considered back at the colony, arriving with them is the new Imperial Governor -- Phelot, a Fetch and servant of the Underlords. With him he brings a cadre of 20 muurdaan house elite -- great metal hulks with fervent and loyal sinew-ed frames underneath. They wield one handed a baton that would be 2 handed maul in anothers hands and their off-hands have battering-ram-like piston weapons.

The governor and his bodyguard stay aboard their sleek black-sailed ship for now, but are preparing to address the colony. only one message is sent ahead at this time:

"Do not attempt to resist Muurdaan Authority -- or all constitutional rights will be suspended and we will place the colony under marshal law. The safety and peace you've demanded is now Mandatory."

 

[Heyitsjiwon]

Old World Authority

Caelis was busy with overseeing his orders when he heard a certain familiar cadence. Only one person in the world seemed to walk like that. Caelis smiled and said without looking "I trust all went well on your business venture?"

"A man has to look out for his own fortunes."

Caelis turned and said "Welcome back, brother."

Lothar replied "Things look lively around here. Come, let us talk about the events that have taken place."

---

After a brief reunion, Caelis' face was... emotionless. Such was the face that he learned to have when dealing to other nobles and the Muurdaan. His title of Lord was no laughing matter now in the Colony. He would have to meet with this new... Governor. Thus he began drafting a letter, summoning the Fetch to Caelis. There was much to talk about in the Colony and the Empire's role in it. It had to be clear that despite his de jure title of Governor, the fetch would not attempt to subvert Caelis' plans. He was a fetch. He would respect Caelis' nobility and lineage or else the governor would certainly have problems... problems that the Empire may not take the fetch's side on. The title Governor meant little to Caelis or Lothar. They would carry on with business as usual, but would the new Governor be a hindrance or a benefit to Caelis? Time would tell.

---

Summary:
Caelis summons the fetch to come before him in order to discuss the matters of the Colony.

 

[Spacekitty]

Old Meets New

Andelluvius Fendarvin took his first steps onto the shores of the New World, a mixture of sand and ice crunching beneath his well oiled leather boots. He breathed deeply, letting the chilly post-winter air fill his lungs. He was glad to be off the boat, long journeys at sea were never fun, but not something a top-level Lawyer and Diplomat wasn’t use to. Typically his journeys were made in luxury; ornate transports with private bedrooms, kitchens, lounge areas and full service staff, more so mobile palaces than ships really, where his destinations were the elegancy of the Manors of Merchant-Lords and the Castles of the Muurdaan.This time however, his trip was made in the cramped confines of a Muurdaan Carrack. To make matters worse was the company he found himself in… Twenty Muurdaan House Elites and a Fetch. Not the most friendly bunch to say the least. There was one other person he would consider human on the boat however, an Attolian noble by the name of Sir Lothar. Decent fellow, for a rival. Though Fendarvin was friendly with the Lord and showed his respect. He was a professional after all. Long story short, he did not look forward to the return trip.

He shivered and tried to forget about his time spent with the House Elites… those eyes… pure hatred. Rather, he surveyed this strange land he found himself in. The dock was rather impressive for such a new colony, it was clear careful and sophisticated hands put much effort it it’s construction. Tall wooden cranes for lifting cargo on and off ships dotted the docks, and human fishermen (the “Exiles” he would learn later) worked the docks. It would serve his organization well he mused. Many ships were docked at the port, and Fendarvin poked around to find the “Trade Fleet” his “associates” from the New World Trade Company had promised him. He was pleasantly surprised to find four ships flying the NWTO’s emblem. Not exactly what he would call a trade fleet, but he had expected the Fennecs had exaggerated in their reports, he was just pleased they had not outright lied. Perhaps things were going as well as they claimed. He may have to congratulate Mallowthew, it seemed he had done well after Salvator died from sickness during the journey here.

He knew little of the Fennec situation here in the New World, and what he did know, he didn’t trust. He would find everything out for himself, the words of a fox are worth about as much as the dirt you bury when in. All he knew was they had gotten into a “dispute” with the Attolians, one that had been “settled amicably and business was continuing normally”. Fendarvin would get more details on the “dispute” from the Attolians “perspective”.

Taking his leave of the port, he headed up the depression and into platz, aiming to find his associates. It was rather odd he hadn’t been greeted by anyone at the docks, nor had he seen any Fennecs around so far… If he knew the foxes like he thought he did, surely he should see some scampering about. Perhaps Mallowthew had actually gotten them to focus on work. As he entered the Platz he couldn’t help but notice the tense atmosphere, and the rather high level of security. Perhaps some natives had recently attacked or something or the sort, the New World wasn’t known as particularly safe. The people of the platz seemed to be avoiding something, and upon searching Fendarvin found the culprit- a fountain that ran red, with what he could only assume was blood. Blood magic likely. He couldn’t help think he knew of the cause…

No matter, the blood fountain was clearly the cause of the tension and heightened security and not the Fennec. So he could relax, and continue his search for the NWTO, slightly reassured that the Foxes had not botched his organizations chances in this new world. He peered around the Platz for a bit, even stopping into the local tavern, a commoner’s place by the name of Donkey Rats. An Attolian owned business it seemed. But as fate had it, not a tail in sight. Something was up…

The NWTO had not been truthful in it’s report, he was certain of it. When he found out what the dirty animals had done this time, he would skin Mallowthew. For now though, he had more pressing matters to attend to. The new “Governor” would come to land shortly and Fendarvin would be the first to speak with him. He could make a useful ally. In the meantime, it would seem only proper to greet the local authorities. Perhaps they could enlighten him on the activities of his associates. Perhaps he would be pleasantly surprised. Somehow, he doubted that.

While the Governor and House Elite prepared for their appearance, Fendarvin would make his own appearance in the Attolian District, requesting to meet with the Lord Caelis himself. He was keen to figure out whatever situation he had found himself in, and he had an inkling the Attolian Lord would know quite a lot about it. Besides, he was a fellow Muurdaan citizen and a human. It wasn’t like he was going to trust the reports of his foxes.


ORDERS:
Fendarvin seeks to meet with the Lord Caelis Heyitsjiwon

Fendarvin will request a meeting with the Governor Beckoncall

 

[General Deth Glitch]

Awakening they heard of their new 'friends' in the port but, as usual, it wasn't much of a concern. The way they saw it the Empire would send people, from time to time, to make the people 'know their place' but expected they would do little more and considered that this was all that was happen. As such, it was business as usual. With their new creatures being brought on board it was clear they would need full time care. As such a small group of Miners were being retasked. They were to become the 'beast masters' and look after the factions creatures. They would accompany them when they worked and look after them when they didn't. As part of this a new staircase was to be built, at the bottom of the hold, but seperate, to expand a new level for the beasties to live with their carers.
Another group of Firebeards were to finally create the final parts of the original Hold design, their first home and haven. They were to start with opening the lower 'passage' to the dock, giving them a second door that opened on the port so that they wouldn't have to climb up the stairs, walk around and then back down. Once this was done work would then begin on the great hall and in providing housing and lodging for the Firebeards so that they can finally have their own space. With this another group of dwarfs were tasked with marking their soon to happen expansions so that the moles would be kept safe and away from light but also so that their new cliff expansions could be planned.
Another group were tasked with uncovering something that Grimdr and Jaelok, the Master Weapon Smith, were finding themselves increasingly captivated by. Lightning. Grimdr felt that its understanding would lead to massive advancements in quality of life but both thought it would lead to a technology that could perhaps keep the Muurdaan at bay. While they had seen such weather phenomena before they journeyed to the new world they were more exposed then ever before to it here with so much time spent above ground preparing for the 'morrow and in cooperative tasks they saw more of it then ever before. It was a frightening sight and that's what excited them.

While work was ever present and a part of Dwarven life on this new shore it didn't get in the way of party. They did both hard. That said a party of another kind would need to happen. Much like happened long before they arrived to shape this world, among its first settlers a similar festival though different as all cultures twist religion to fit their narrative. Not a Drop of alcohol. After a hard days work near the entire faction met up on the beach, ignoring the Muurdaan ship and various other events going on about them and took a small rowboat, not even close to sea worthy, laid in it the last barrel of fine ale they had taken with them, (while lesser drink was still in some supply it did mean a brewery would need to be in the making to avoid the pisswater available in the colony.) a pickaxe and personal belongings of each of their fallen. Another cask of ale was drenched over the boat and Grimdr asked that Baez and his followers in the Temples be offered to attend, with Baez himself being asked to read the rights if he wouldn't mind, for the firebeards had long since lost any copies of the Red Book, were reliant on Aural tradition and couldn't read the old texts for none of their priests were still living and so the knowledge was lost to them. He also asked for his countrymen, new and old, to have a moment of silence in memory. Grimdr regretted that they hadn't been able to remember them earlier but the time was never right, there was always a new threat but he felt safe, well safer then he did before, ignorant of the dangers facing the colony at the moment. Beckoncall


Actions
6 (skilled Workers) Dwarves were to spend their time looking after their new 'pets'
49 Skilled workers were to continue the creation of the hold under the supervision of the VS Fortifier
23 Skilled Workers and the VS Armourer and Tool Smith, were to ensure the continuation of the Smithing Guild, accompanied by a Fire Salamander
10 were assigned to the 'Lightning project' with Jaelok, the VS Master weaponsmith overseeing.
6 Would ensure various tasks and errands were completed
The VS Brewer would begin looking into setting up an Ale brewery and who would be interested in helping, asking around.
10 Skilled Warriors would defend the door and wait to also defend the new door once it is created.
9 Skilled Warriors would hover about in the Depression, keeping an eye on the new arrival and ensuring they were ready should anything go down but otherwise staying out of the way

 

[Prince Vaethorion]

The Highborn were fine with not having any bloodshed that day and still enjoyed riding out into the spring thaw. They were still getting the rust off as they say. Their cloaks flew in the breeze, their pennants on their chariots and runners. Their mithril armor shined. Not one Fennec pelt was made. The Highborn assisted the Attolian troops in the best manner they could, by keeping the peace. The Fennec were watched carefully at the excavation and everywhere else.

One Highborn Spearman said to an Archer. "This is why we Highborn keep the Fennec far far away, because they are constantly causing trouble".

The Fennec presence was removed from the Theater district as a precaution.

The Prince turned to his second in Command the Arch Battle Mage. " The Fennec have pushed the hand of the Colonial government too far. Their back dealings, the hiring of assassins, we have heard rumors of plots to murder Caelis, orders from the Fennec are suspected, now the murder of the Blue Paw, the underground mysterious explosions. We now found areas hidden by illusions that violate their Probation. The news of the Fennec conspiring with the Narvik against the Colony and inviting Muurdan troops to the Colony are all matters to also be discussed at a hearing. First order of business, The Fennec must undo their own illusions or otherwise force the hand of the Colony to do so. It won't be pretty if we do it."

"The Snake people are another Problem. We cannot have them running about harming Colonist"... The Prince Sighed.

The Prince turned to Caelis. "The Fennec must come clean. This must be all discussed in a hearing. We must also discuss the coming Muurdan and what to do about these trade issues. In the meanwhile, the Fennec must agree to undo their illusions or we will have to do it ourselves. They are in clear violation of the terms of the Fennec Probation."

Letter to Fennec:
Spacekitty
Fennec,

We wish to resolve this matter in hearings without blood shed.
The Fox Folk have no reason to hide unless they are hiding something.
Understand that you are in violation of the terms of your probation.
Please remove your illusions and stop concealing whatever it is you are concealing.
We require information about explosions in the tunnels.
The Fennec are suspected of having hired assassins to murder Caelis.
The Mindless, murdering Snake People that caused The deaths of the Blue Paw are the Fennecs responsibility.
They must be reigned in.
Come clean and we can avoid extreme unpleasantness.


Highborn

The Capital Building
The Highborn ramp up their artistic endeavors at the Capital building. Finishing touches. The Highborn add additional wealth and oppulence into the Capital. The building is inspected. Especially for any embellishments from the Fennec or Ratkin. The Highborn make sure there are special passages, hiding places, ways in and out to the Capital from their quarter. Meanwhile, the building itself is designed to be a fortress and extremely defensible. The granite floors had intricate murals carved into them. There was magical runes weaved throughout the stonework in the way of the High Elves. The Highborn artisans, architects and engineers tried to keep their sensibilities in check in the Main Halls. In their section however, the Highborn artistry was very prominent. There were murals, tapestries of great beauty and intricacy. The colors were vibrant and there were great usage of natural light, stained glass windows. The windows had shutters built into them for defensive purposes. The Windows for example could be manned by archers. There were kill zones, archer slits and entrapments designed into the building. It would serve as the Colony's stronghold. The entire structure as ornate as it was, was intended to be both functional and defensible. The ceilings were quite high and vaulted in the Elven manner. There were many curves. Among the Murals, there were depictions of the founding of the colony. The various factions stories were depicted and their fates thus far. The Highborn knew mortals liked these sort of things. If the Colony survived any duration, this narrative would be relevant. The Colony was still in it's infancy.

The walls were designed to resist siege. There were stores beneath for supplies. There were ramparts. Concentrical walls. Bridges. However, most importantly, the building itself was regal. It was a fantastic accomplishment for the colony. It was something to be proud of and the ambitions of the colony were represented in this Structure.

The Highborn put 5 wealth into their final touches. best artisans are sent, 30 unskilled 10 skilled labor, Engineer

Up next:

Highborn new arrivals

News from the Capital

Blood Tear Arrives back to be traded for Cassandra's soul

Planetar and Highborn to help against Fountain Demon menace.

Note: The Fennec have agreed in principle in back channels to resolve matters in Court and to reveal what they are hiding by undoing the illusions.

 

[Beckoncall]

Governmental Decree:

Phelot, High Governor in the interests of the Muurdaan, do decree the following things in the colony unacceptable:

Occupation of the fennec excavation is to cease, and an occupation by Muurdaan House elite is to commence. Production of the Fennec must not be curtailed, even in a time of investigation or censure. Fennec back to work! Prince Vaethorion Heyitsjiwon

I have since learned the Tyren have a mine that is not being utilitized to it's fullest potential. This is negligence and contrary to one of the primary purposes of the colony. We must see this rectified. Great wealth is being generated by the colony, but it is a fraction of what could be. The Tyren have so far shown great progress with making the colony lucrative/well off -- they must not neglect the continued obligations to do so. SpiralErrant

Do not fear the hand of the governor -- once the colony is actually working to it's best capacity, you may come to accept, and even appreciate us for our guidance. For now, it is simply important that you recognize our power.

May the Colony thrive -- For the Eternal Empire,

Governor Phelot, mouthpiece of Muurdaan.

 

[SpiralErrant]

Spoiler: Character posts

"What now? The many sing to us, what is wanted now?"

It was so eager! Shul had always thought of the mine as a fragile thing, a gift in terms of what it could pull up from the earth and spare people in terms of labour but a being that would need rest afterward by way of a price. A foolish thought really. They still knew so little about the way it worked or how powerful it had become since they had brought the ancient wood to mix with its vines. Besides, it had had all of winter and half of autumn to rest and dragging up stone had been no great challenge for it.

It sounded so full of energy now, Shul could feel it thrumming through the cave walls. The plan was for him to go back with the lodestones for carving and crafting into something they could use to let the elves walk these tunnels safely. Then maybe someone could finally read what was on all these wood carvings and tables. But in the quiet and among all that power... temptation crept in.

Shul had made a right fool of himself when he'd fuddled his commands and gotten them neither gold or silver. This could be his chance to make up for it, to return triumphant! Except they weren't looking for gold these days. The caravan was readying weapons and armour for war and The Cull. And Shul didn't know any fancy metals beyond those they were already making. Well, except one, something light and strong and pure. A metal that the Highborn warriors were always going on about and showing off!

“I need Mithril.” Shul said to the cavern, summoning mental images of that bright armour. Steel that shines like silver.

*****
​

“What studies are we to engage in today, Master Shaman?” Deryn asked, throwing open the shutters of the longhouse and letting some light run in over the cluttered mess that littered the floor. It seemed no matter the species, mages of all kinds were terrible at keeping their dens tidy. “Not that I haven't enjoyed our time working together but there is still so much of this new land for me to see, my wings ache for the sky.”

Uumush gestured and grunted in his way, his silent voice assuring her that this would be their last task for a time and then the two could part to wander. It was strange to for him to be spoken to so casually, normally only Orm would have dared to do so. But he supposed this elf crone was ancient and wild enough to let go of propriety. At least there was none of the forced civility he so often heard hidden behind the smiles of her people. It seemed the two had found unexpected equals within this glade. Fellow scholars of the unwritten wilds.

So it must have been even more intimidating than usual for Anuc to knock upon the door and nervously let herself into this sanctum. Their last try at delving the book together had ended... awkwardly. Yet Uumush could not deny the snow pelted healer's determination or the small magic she had miraculously dragged from the pages. Now that they had a translator perhaps things would go better. Besides, he owed her after she had led to the clearing of secrets between himself and Orm and what with the arrival of Esteri and the promises she represented... Anuc deserved something good to distract her after all she had done.

“So this is she.” Deryn purred, gliding across the floor and circling Anuc as if to inspect her. “The beloved of elves. Your master has told me of you, my lady seeress.”

“I'm no seer, ma'am.” Anuc muttered, awkwardly unable to meet the druid's eyes despite how she towered over the elf. “Just a herbalist looking to learn.”

“Nonsense. You are the one this tome was made for, it's first owner. Your shaman has admitted as much to me. I have heard of your deeds, young one.” Deryn fell silent and still for a moment, looking her new student up and down. She nodded as if in approval and took Anuc by the arm. “Come, it is time you understand the gift that was meant for you.”

*****

Outside a longhouse, high on a hill, sat two elderly minotaurs. A pair of seasoned elders of the shepherd wagons, each one sporting fur that had grown over into long, goat like, beards and bushy eyebrows. They were respected elders among their people, even if everyone called them 'The Grumps'.

One was busy chewing on a stem of twinleaf, letting the leaves spin around like a propeller. “Look at that, eh. You ever seen fields as busy and colourful as that?” He waved his hand out over the hill lands and the colourful patchwork of plots and crops that painted the hills like a tapestry. The cliffs were practically glowing with those bushels. The leafy tops of the vegetables were popping up in their cosy little patches under the drystone walls. The only thing that was kept isolated from the rest was this odd thing called the hagbane that had both a wall and a trench dug around the inside of its plot, along with the signs and runes in all the local languages telling folk to 'Stay Back' and not to touch the plant!

“Aye indeed.” The other grump nodded. “And those herds. I tell you after seeing our own in the old lands fade it does my heart good to see them getting so strong here.”

It had done each of them something good to have each other as well. The Proud-Horns despite their history had fallen on hard times in their old paths and the loss of one of the Black-Charger shepherds to Gnoll arrows in the early days had left a gap that had waited a long time to be filled.

“A little too strong I think.” The other chuckled as their break was interrupted by a croaking cackled from behind.

“What are you doing up there?” The bearded elder yelled at the runner lizard that had climbed up onto the roof of the longhouse. The lizard only gave its croaking cry in response. “That's it, I've been watching you little terrors get a free ride long enough. Time for you to start pulling your weight around here.”

The crop master sat back and laughed as he watched his peer clamber around trying to wrestle the agile runner to the ground. He didn't know what they were thinking, they couldn't ride the things like the elves and the lizards were too small to pull Tyren carts.

Though they liked to run and follow orders... maybe the lizards could work the herds like other youngsters.

*****
​

Of course there were folk waiting outside the mine and ready to deliver the hut sized boulder to the craft wagons. A thankless task but one that the minotaurs could do and hardly break a sweat. With so much stone to go around and thanks to the knowledge of their stone mage and the expansive knowledge of Anais they could work out ways to use the lodestones and turn them into something primed and useful.

If they wanted it to absorb the poison energies in the mine it would have to go in unrefined. Unfortunately they had learned that meant the stone would slowly degrade over use. Not what they had hoped for but something they would have to work with, folk wondered if maybe the protection would allow the elves time to find a more permanent solution.

But that would only count for half the boulder! The rest went to Sinana and her assistants. The stone mage knew of lodestones and that if one could cut them down and polish them to the right sheen these stones could take in violent magics like they did poison and temperature in their raw form. A more limited thing but one that wouldn't fade over time. It was the hope of the caravan that if they could combine the stone with the protective properties of bulliron they could forge protective plates that could be attached to harnesses and turned into magic resistant armour.

*****
​

What turned out to be a much simpler job in terms of resources was the carapace armour. The craft wagons were busy today and their huts rang with the percussion of tools and the gentle tunes of elven song. This wouldn't be like the sea scorpion armour of the elves that had gone but these scorched plates could offer their own protection thanks to the now refined treesong.

Infusing shell and bark with bulliron hardened things beyond their limits. All while pincers and tail stingers were sharpened and mixed with barbs and sinews to make taught longbows and wicked knives that curved in ways that made them look as if they were itching to slide between the gaps in traditional plate.

And the last shine on this wicked work, the jumping talismans fused into their form. Taken from the bodies of the unnaturally agile vanguard of the Mud Elves. The craftbulls were certain that once the Tyrenborn returned the hybrid rangers, with their already enhanced strength and speed, would become the premier scouts of the colony and something to make their ancestors proud.

*****
​

Hunting could be a tricky thing for something as big as a Tyren. It was impossible to really step silently on hooves and a body that big couldn't help but brush branches and knock things aside. But Gothrul had found ways to move through the woods with more grace than his brash warrior kin. He embraced the bestial parts of himself that set minotaurs apart from the smaller humans and elves. His breathing though loud was soft and steady, his scent was a musk that seemed to belong in these lands. His steps were those of the prey animal his kind were so often compared to, cautious and unassuming. He could never go unnoticed and silent like others but he could blend himself into his surroundings as if he belonged there, as if he had always been there. He was nothing for any beast to be concerned with until his javelins were sent flying.

That was the way his scouting into the woods was going until something landed on his shoulder and almost made him jump out of his fur!

“How goes your part of our trip, brother bull?” Chirped Llyr of the tyrenborn.

“Would you stop doing that!” Gothrul brayed, unable to contain himself. “Leave me to my work here. You abandoned me the moment we entered the trees, if you aren't going to help at least leave me to hunt in peace.”

“We never left you, brother.” Llyr grinned. “We've been looking after you all the way.” He nodded to the sky and Gothrul, with great effort, managed to make out the movement of four other silhouettes, flitting through the trees like birds.

“Your nose is a strong thing, brother, but my eyes are sharper and from up there I see some things you might like that way.” Llyr pointed the way before leaping from the minotaur's shoulders as if he was never there. Reaching for a branch and swinging into the canopy with ease.

There was something odd about those five. Everything they did seemed so odd compared to the other elves to Gothrul's senses. They knew the woods though, he couldn't deny that.

*****
​

“Orm! There's new from the city, the fennec have murdered some of the rats!”

“What?!” Orm balked. He'd been finishing up his talks with Anais when the news came. There had been murders in the tunnels and the other colonial groups had marshalled all their forces to bring the Fennec to heel. He shouldn't have been surprised by such a heavy reaction but it still caught him off guard.

Things would only get worse as other runners arrived bringing word that the Stouts in the woods were bringing up public word against the military response. Things were about to get out of hand by the sounds of it. Orm gathered himself and shouldered his axe, ready to head down to the Platz and try to talk everyone into putting their swords down.

Things would only get more complicated soon as word reached him that a black sailed ship had reached the shore. “The underlords are here! They've sent themselves a Fetch! A demon in robes and he's brought those giant soldiers with him!” Came the call. That along with the message from the self claimed governor reached Orm's ears. Apparently this thing didn't plan to play nicely.

“Can you tell me anything useful I could maybe use on a Fetch?” Orm asked, turning to the Aboleth.

“More than you have time for now.” Anais' voice was calm as ever. “And time is fleeing you now.”

Damn. Well Orm wouldn't be able to do anything up here in the hills. He strode from the hall, yelling orders that the mercenaries were to police Harun'Taras while he was gone and to keep the peace. Bruul was still away training the warriors and the berserkers and Orm decided it was better to keep the young bloods busy and he certainly didn't want to risk the blood-touched running wild if things went poorly. Hopefully that new passion shaman would help keep them in line. Damn if he didn't have a lot of new names to remember.

“It seems important business has called you away, Great Chieftain.” Came the call of a new voice. One that was deep yet feminine and melodic.

Orm cursed internally as he turned to see Esteri and the ladies who followed her around approaching him. He didn't need this right now.

“If there are issues among the other chieftains here then perhaps I can be of some help. I think they may be more at ease talking to someone who isn't armed with a weapon taller than they are.” She spoke so fancy compared to most, it threw Orm off, made him think he should be all formal withh er in kind.

“Thank you for the offer um... M'lady... but I'm not sure it's the safest time for you to be meeting folk in the city.” He offered.

“Nonsense, why no one would dare harm me with you around.” She batted her eyelashes so easily, dipping her head in a way that past for a demure smile among their kind. “And though I am sure you have handled things well in your time here, Chief Orm, I am told your grasp of the common tongue is still improving.”

“Well... yeah...” She had him there, and without Shul around to help him most could talk rings around Orm if they tried.

“Then it is settled, we shall go together to represent our caravans and make sure nothing goes amiss.” Esteri clapped her hands and gently took Orm by the arm. He was so bewildered by this strange move he just went along with it, half afraid he break her if he resisted.

Spoiler: Action summary:

Lodestones
*1 unit used to make safety clothing for elves.
(1 Treesinger, 2 Craftbulls, 10 Springborn)

*1 unit used to craft earthen breastplates.
(1 Lodestone mixed with 1 unit Bulliron. Sinana earth shaper shaman. 2 Craftbulls, 5 unskilled Tyren.)

Carapace
*Onlyday carapace are given over given over to crafters. 1 unit to make armour suitable for the Tyrenborn, these suits are infused with 5 jumping tokens gained in the last battle with the mud elves. 1 unit to make organic weaponry.
(1 Treesinger, 2 Craftbulls, 5 Springborn, 5 unskilled Tyren, 5 agility talismans.)

*A small party is sent into the old mud elf territory to explore the forest in detail for possible new crops and game.
(5 Tyrenborn, 1 skilled Tyren Hunter)

*Diplomatic group travel to The Platz to meet with the Attolians and the Muurdaan arrivals.
(Orm, Esteri a skilled Tyren Diplomat.)

*The Barkbound tome is delved into again. This time to research the healing arts.
(Uumush the shaman, Anuc the healer, Deryn the druid)

*Shul speaks to the mine of vines once more. He asks for Mithril!

Farming
*Crop fields are checked over after the winter and nourished where needed. New plots are built with drystone walls like the first and rabbits are herded into safer enclosures.
(2 Treesingers, 1 Skilled Shepherd, 1 Skilled Tyren Bard, 3 Skilled Tyren, 20 Springborn, 15 Unskilled Tyren)

Regular supply crops and herds include:

Darkleaf (A Tyren version of tobacco)

Twinleaf(A local plant with a sweet taste, considered a luxury food among Tyren)

Wild root vegetables (A medley of root veg grown among the glades by the origional wood elves and grown sporadically throughout the settlement)

Bushel gems (Found in the early days of the colony with large, thorny, vine walls and bushels growing along the Shearcliff walls)

The Herds (The classic Tyren livestock brough over by the origional colonists, with much fewer being brought over by the Proud-Horns. Often refered to as a single entity but made up of a mixture of sheep and goats. Used to make Wool, mutton and dairy products)

Highland Rabbits (Found at the top of the cliffs, these little ones make for good pelts and tasty dash of meat to the Tyren salads even if they aren't the most nutritious option)

Manure (With this many animals it's bound to build up, No one likes shoveling fertelizer, but someone's got to do it)

Staff Root Carrots (Found in the highlands near the ruins of the Gewgaw settlement. Your mother says they help you see in the dark!)

Hagbane (A small crop grown by Uumush the shaman. Unleashes spores that have no effect to Tyren and Elves but are highly poisonous to other races)

Auran Steelbark (Light as a feather, hard as steel. Capable of reflecting certain light and energy. Trimmed from the bark of the golden trees of the glade. Will take until next season to be trimmed and used)

*The Tyren share of the runner lizards are trained to act like sheepdogs, helping the herdsman manage their livestock and hopefully free up the labour pool for future efforts.
(1 Skilled Tyren shepherd, 10 Unskilled Tyren, 10 Springborn)

Military Matters
*Faith of the rich mercenaries set about on guard duty and keeping the peace around Harun'Taras. (45 Mercs)

*The training of the blood-touched continues. The two are being set into training with the other Tyren warriors in the arena under the watchful eye of the shaman.
(2 Shaman, Bruul the war shaman and Emme the passion shaman. 2 Blood-Touch, Brighteye and Keenhunter. 30 Tyren Warriors)

​

 

[Heyitsjiwon]

As requested, Phelot arrived in the Attolian Housing Quarters for an audience with Caelis. Phelot arrived in a room, darkened so that not a single ray of sunlight could enter. Only the glow of a Continual Light provided illumination. However, the mere arrival of the Fetch seemed to make the room dimmer.

"If you are indeed running the colony, there will have to be some changes made soon, or I will have to take a hand in things -- I see bloodless quarreling, and production centers being shut down. Can you explain this? Or are we exporting moth-holes and empty threats?"

"Silence, Abomination. I know of your kind quite well, and your peculiar allegiance to House Narvik is rather interesting."

The fetch recoiled slightly, but Caelis saw the abomination smile beneath its hood.

"Now, before you get ahead of yourself. Your 'title' of Governor requires that you know of the Colony and its current status. My Castellan has prepared a brief summary in several reports. You may take it for your own education."

"I expect they will be adequate" Phelot said as he skimmed through the pages.

"Now, my brother has informed me of a special... guest who has also arrived with you."

"You can give me all of these details, but...."

"I will make it very clear. The Fennec have been a thorn to my endeavors in the Colony. And their recent wanton actions are an affront to me and the Attolians. You ask why there are centers of production that are stopped? It is punitive measures. One of many."

"My title and masters demand to know. Your justice must not undercut one of the primary functions for this colony. I suggest you shed blood to make yourself understood, or allow the resumption of production and find some other way of punishing the fennec. At the end of this conversation, one way or another -- they will be back to work -- the Underlords demand we make it so."

"Ahhh, Phelot, is it? Who said that I am stopping from continuing work? They have fled their own fields and breweries. The only thing that I still hold is an old abandoned excavation pit."

"Then they will come out of hiding and work. or we must force them."

"You can force them. You are Governor. Are you not? I hear that you have command over 20 of the Narvik's own Housemen. My men are rather preoccupied. Ensuring that no further damage can be done by such... poorly thought out actions."

"Excellent. Leave the fennec to me, then."

"I am glad we have come to agreement. Let us make sure that this is something that will continue in the months to come."

"One hopes. One hopes. Next issue... my predecessor...."

"You have a clue of where he is you say? What could possibly take him from his duties!?"

"I know not of the latter. However, my mages do believe that they have found your disgraced kin. As ordered by Touryan. I will make sure that he will pay for his failures. Do not concern yourself with the matter."

Phelot hisses. "I must know why he would abdicate his duties. I shall have to be more careful around you -- you speak as one who knows how to dispatch a fetch." as it then cackled.

"That is no concern of mine or the Empire. Thus, it should not be yours either. It must be punished. That is all I know and that is all I care to do. Although, I am both sure that there is one thing that your kind values the most. As said, Phelot. I hope we can continue to work together even in the months to come."

"Yes. It seems we must each do a lot to ingratiate one to another. Now... was there something I could do for you, since we have temporarily taken stripping you of authority off the table?"

"Look all around you. To the west, mysterious ruins inhabited by undead. To the north, a great unknown jungle and desert. To the East, a mighty mountain that simply asks to be explored... and to the South... There are perils and mysteries everywhere. I trust that we will help each other solve these puzzles that we each wish to solve."

"Consult with me on these mysteries, I will remember my duty, even if my contemporary has not. I wonder however... do you really know what it is that a fetch desires?"

"Does anyone or thing truly know what it is that they desire?"

"Perhaps you do not know. As you say, we shall see in the months to come."

"One step at a time, Phelot. One step at a time."

"By the will of the eternal empire, so mote it be. I grow tired, though this has been enlightening... I shall send my house elite to the excavation in the morning. I trust your troops will not be there when they arrive. Leave them to me."

"I will also trust that you will see to it that this affront will be... repaid. This episode has cost too much time and energy."

"Mischief will not be tolerated in this new year, Lord Caelis. I will see to it myself."

"Ahhh, although, I do highly suggest that you join your men to the Excavation. There's certain.... magic and tricks that the Fennec have employed there."

"I would expect no less, though perhaps not of a quality that would surprise me. I tire, Lord Caelis... this engagement has been.... enlightening.... I do have high hopes for things to go smoothly, despite initial impressions. Perhaps we will end up allies after all -- for I am no more a lapdog of the Narvik than you are a lapdog of the Touryan, eh?"

"A mere lapdog? By choice on both parties, I'm sure. A man may not live long. But the 2nd War of Expansion is not gone from our memories. But yes, this has been a... pleasant discussion."

"I must remember to fear you, Caelis. For you do not seem the sort to frighten the likes of me. Indeed. Pleasant. Farewell, Lord Colonial Militant. Farewell."

"May the Divines... not watch over you."

Phelot instinctively retreated into his robes and slinked out of the door in a single motion.

Caelis looked over to Lothar who silently stood in the side and said.

"Never understood why the Fetch are trusted with so much by the Empire."

Lothar then replied "So, will we surrender the Excavation?"

"We will cease our occupation. Doesn't mean that we will leave the excavation alone to the fennec. We have other things to tend to there after all. As long as we do not forcefully stop their production, then we shall continue as planned. They simply choose not to work after all. If they don't work in fear of us, then they will work in fear of the Empire. We have the least to lose in this... situation. We have certainly enjoyed many liberties in the year that we have been here. However, the fetch is a fool to think that he can strip the Colony of its autonomy and a bigger fool if he thinks that we will lose the graces of the Empire."

Lothar nodded. He then said "Well, I should head out then. It is about time I met with the Mages Guild and learn more about this sword."

"While you are at the Learner's Guild. Inform the geologist to go to the Tyren. He is to assist them with mining operations. They have a literal gold mine, but they don't know how to properly use it. There are traces of Katana Gold in the area of the hills. Just one cart, and these lands will be worth a fiefdom. Regardless, send the geologist so that the Tyren can begin to extract more valuable metals."

"Are you ready?"

Caelis paused knowing what Lothar referred to "... I have no choice. I must act now regardless of whether I am ready."

"Divines preserve you."

"Divines watch over us all..."

---

Summary:

Caelis meets with the Governor.

Attolians cease their occupation of the Excavation, but leave 10 Halberdiers in the area to patrol/peacekeep.

Lothar heads to the Mages Guild to learn more about the "Damager of Gods."

Geologist is sent to the Tyren to assist them with operating the Mine of Vines.

 

[Spacekitty]

The Muurdaan Have SPOKEN
The Fetch-Governor's decree was not unheard by the almost comedic congregation of Fox, Rat and Snake men hiding within the colonies outskirts. Just as the last column of occupying Attolian troops left the excavation, foxfolk began to peek their furry heads out from behind the magical enchantments that cloaked the excavation. If anyone was left there to see them, they would enjoy ( or perhaps fear) the spectacle of beady eyes peering out from heads seemingly secreted from stone walls. Slowly a mixture of Fox, Rat, and Snake began to trickle out of random places within the excavation walls. Slowly, the excavation began to fill with a jumble of furry and scaly bodies until nearly 250 of the misfits flooded the excavation. They grinned smugly at the leaving Attolians troops, taking this as some sort of victory. The Attolians would surely let them have this small victory- the House Elites would arrive soon enough. But the Fennec seemed to not know this, and if they did, they at least did not let it keep them from blowing raspberries at the Attolians.

Though the absence of Mallowthew reduced the Fennec leadership further and prompted some of the Foxes to declare a "day off", Sontio was quick to assert himself and fill Mallowthew's place. Within the hour the Fennec was back at work, setting up their excavation for the production of booze and other goods. Though the Fennec did not return to their facilities in Harun'Taras and the Theater District. Not yet at least. What would happen was yet to be seen.

The five native witches emerged from the Ratkin tunnels as one and soon the coven set to work undoing the illusions that veiled the Excavation site.

Illicit sales for the moment would be halted in full. The Fennec would simply focus on setting up within the area around the excavation. Sontio knew little of what plans would be had now, but he had been ordered to restart production and so that is what he would do. He figured Fennec presence within the colony would not be appreciated at the moment, and so production would have to be centered away from the colony. Fortunately, they had already been sent a ways away after the first incident and so they would not have to go far! The small shipment they had sent back to the Old World had been extremely profitable, and with 3 new ships, future shipments would be even larger- and even more profitable. They had barely been able to fulfill the last shipment. It seemed a factory was in order, and a factory is what would be built!

ORDERS:
Fennec work on prepping the Excavation for further booze production while a large facility is constructed. (10 Skilled Fennec, 4 Unskilled Fennec, 10 Dirty Paws)

Construction of a large goods production facility/complex just outside of the excavation begins, aiming to produce all Fennec goods within an efficient complex to maximize production. The Fennecs will first focus on the production of booze. (10 Skilled Fennec, 30 Unskilled Ratkin, 4Giant Pengalins, 1 Capo Master Brewer and 1 Capo Sontio to ensure the facility will be built with mass production and efficiency in mind. Current plans for the facility is a complex of different buildings, each designated for a different part of production, From cultivating to packaging. These facilities will be connected by underground tunnels, no Fennec will be seen outside. the three Giant Pengolins will dig these tunnels, which will then be reinforced by the skilled fennec.

The Fennec will also seek to repair and replant their farm, working on turning it into an efficient plantation with the help of the Master Biologist. The hooded Workers with oversight by the Witches and 5 clean paws will begin digging and replanting the farm. (33 Hooded Workers, 5 Witches, 5 clean paws, 1 Capo Master Biologist to oversee)

The 70 Hooded Warriors, 10 Miscreated, and 6 Duneriders will be kept some distance away from production and incoming House Elites.

A small diplomatic band lead by a Capo will enter the Platz to request the release of the captured 20 Unskilled Workers, 20 Skilled Workers and 10 Trolls. Heyitsjiwon

 

[Spacekitty]

DIRE BEAR HUNTING!

9 Miscreated, 6 armed with Heavy Hunting Spears and 3 with Halberdiers and hand axes at their wastes with 3 Dunsia Assassins with poisoned heavy crossbows, 18 Hooded Warrors to ensure easy and efficient kills, and 3 Black Surgeons are sent to hunt Dire Bears in 3 teams of 3 Miscreated, 1 Dunsia, 6 Hooded Warriors and 1 Surgeons.

Strategy for hunting them will be to draw one out of it's cave, the Dunsia will shoot them with poisoned bolts and the Miscreated will wait until the poison has had its effect before going in for the kill by surrounding it and goreing it with their polearms.

 

[Spacekitty]

Magic and Farming

The witches coven is asked to use their powers to increase farm output, by using spells to cause wild growth of vegetation, which will then be processed for mulching. This mulch will be used to help make the fields more fertile. Once this is done, they will also try to use their magic to increase overall farm output.

 

[Beckoncall]

Prince Vaethorion :

INTRIGUE IN THE CAPITAL -- THE HIGHBORN MEET WITH HOUSE HEGEMON...

The highborn agent is actually quite welcome by House Hegemon and the Highborn diplomat is lead to an exotic garden with giant versions of highborn plants.

The highborn agent proceeded politely, lead on by an imperial page into the presence of the Underlord Diplomat.

"Welcome to the botantical garden of house hegemon" the diplomat ushered the highborn to an extravagant recliner by a fountain with a tremendous banquet lain about.
"it is unfortunate, but the underlord is not in the capital at the moment... I should be able to handle all business, as her castellan."

"Thank you, the honor is mine. I appreciate being seen and bring your underlord greetings from the Eastern Kingdom of Highborn"

"We have heard of the highborn's occupation in the new world, and we are quite interested."
"Tell me, have you learned anything of the tears of divinity?"
"Hegemon paid in part for the ships and supplies for some factions sent to the new world. We were excited when we heard the highborn were making the trip -- we thought it might actually have a chance to succeed."

"We are pleased to be considered. The tears of divinity are powerful indeed, albeit tainted and perhaps
unstable. It has limited use, and cannot be depended upon for long term. They do have their appeal as their
power can be put to many uses."

"The Colony and the Old world is fraught with perils beyond comprehension and beyond the scope of our knowledge,
but it thrives nonetheless. There are dangers it faces that will determine its fate."

"We are quite intrigued and jealous that you have had success unlocking such powers. If we gave you a tear,
could you be counted on to enchant an item with it in the new world and bring it back to us?"
"We wonder where house hegemon fits in the tapestry of great powers that threaten the colony" (the diplomat gives in to a polite laugh)
"Touryan and the Narvik would strangle this flower before it has a chance to bloom... Hegemon wishes... a
farther perspective and hand on things."
"We have heard tales of your victories in the new world, carried by merchants... tales hard to believe."

"We would certainly consider such an endeavor as regards this item a worthy exercise in our craft in the arcane for a House that
appreciates such fine things. We also were wondering house Hegemon fits in. We heard of their support. We know of
their support in Advocating Non-Aggression against the Highborn. We see the Narvik and the Touryan as not
having the delicate hand for the sensitivities involved in uncovering a civilization destroyed by Titans, Demigods, and weapons of mass destruction. There is much below it to discover, we need those with refined sensibilities to have their hand."
"I am curious to hear of your House's interests....?"

"We wish to see the means to unlock the power of the tears beyond the veil, as we have the most of them hoarded
from the bygone era... and we wish to comb what remains of the mage lords for they were loathe to share their
secrets. Ideas of Freedom and Autonomy do not concern us -- we want the arcane lore that comes with allowing
such a colony what it needs to flourish."
"Were tears usable in the old world, we would be quite powerful. More so than we are now."
"If the barrier fell, there would be a scramble to grab land. We are interested in the barrier not weakening
further to maintain a status quo, as well. If there was a means to repair the veil and lock the other houses
from it, we would see that come to pass as well."
"Lastly, we want to see Narvik Perish. They have tried to compete with us, and they have failed against us for
the last time."
"Tell me -- have you learned anything of what caused the mage kingdoms to fall? What powers could they have
dabbled with to bring them low?"

"Certainly with more tears we could learn more about them. They are tainted as I said and have a life to them.
They are powerful. The autonomy to the Colony is important as it what allows it to flourish. The arcane lore in
unfolding to us by the day, but it's a very complex story and world. The barrier might be reparable. Your goals
are not offensive to us. That is a Muurdan matter. on the mages..."
"What brought the Mage Kingdoms to fail was war. Too much power unleashed between entities with way too much
power."
"We have seen evidence of Blood Magic"
"Death Magic"
"we are talking about a holocaust."
"It's still ongoing in some regards"

"What can house Hegemon do for the colony, or the highborn in particular, in return for sharing lore and secrets
uncovered?"

"we need backing we have heard the Narvik sent House elite. We also know that the Narvik are broke. The Colony
they see as their ticket to becoming a big Capital House once again. They are backing the Fennec to create a
drug base for their drug operations. I am sure you are familiar and I must not go into much explanation. The
Attolians are being pressured by the Touryan to accept trade clauses that would possibly destroy the Colony's
blooming trade. What the Highborn need is a degree of non interference from the other houses and permission to
protect the Highborn interest, the Colony's interest and in this matter Hegemon's interest. The Narvik and
Touryan are squeezing the Colony and only your House I believe has the metal to stand up against them and seize
the opportunities present here at rediscovering ancient civilizations and power unimaginable. We need
protection, and with it will come lore, treasure, magical items, power and money."


We will move to make sure Touryan does not do what we expect it would do -- heavy-handedly place enough forces
to eject the Narvik, and possibly turn the colony into a battle ground.
The first step to dissolving the Narvik is to get rid of Phelot, their maggot mouthpiece who will be your governor.
We cannot be so crass as to move against Phelot directly...
but there is something we can do that will cause him to endanger himself.
All fetch want one thing -- to go home. Find some likely power or artifice, and fool them into thinking it will
get them away from the prime material plane.
Something DANGEROUS to mess with, will do nicely.
When Phelot dies so do Narvik's dreams of direct control.

There is wisdom to what you say.
"The Colony will falter is we are put under Phelot's thumb"

"We know that the highborn still use the ways...."
"...perhaps you can convince Phelot that a door within can give him what he seeks?"

"That is indeed a possibility. Could we send the Fetch home?"
"what are your house's greater designs beyond the Colony if I have permission to ask? Your House always seemed
more focus on knowledge than other Houses"

"We have never been able to."
"We play the long game... in the end what we know will matter for whether we stand or fall. Hegemon is already
prepared for dozens of eventualities that will crush lesser houses."
"We want the lore of the mage kings.... that would make us the last house.... then all of this bloodshed and
madness can end. For the most part."
"If we cannot have the lore of the mage kings, we must know what destroyed them -- so that we do NOT pursue the
same power that they did."

"that is sagacious. That power must never be released again."

"As stated, Hegemon sees the long game. It is just as important to prevent others from dabbling with such
forces... though Hegemon might survive a holocaust, holocausts are not in our best interests at this time."
"If the Muurdaan are not careful, the Highborn will see us become a thing of the past. We appreciate that the
highborn aren't going anywhere -- and if we don't want to go anywhere either -- we must be allies."
"Now. We have said we will block the dalliance of house Touryan -- we will count on you to deal with Phelot."

"The Highborn are definitely in it for the long game ad well. We view this colony as a path of redemption. The
Mage Kings had incredible knowledge and power. This knowledge is invaluable. The Highborn of the Past lost
relics we seek. House Hegemon pursues this knowledge as do the Highborn. We also do not want to see the Colony
become a bloodbath, but with the backing of House Hegemon the other houses will step lighter. We have always
appreciated that the strength of House Hegemon is in its wisdom first, and not the mailed fist. We appreciate
you blocking Touryan and we will counter Phelot. If things get out of hand we ask that you give us permission to
defend ourselves."

Muddy the waters by giving him hope of escape... that will more than justify bringing him to heel, if he puts
his own goals above the whole.
We will give you one more thing, as insurance....
This Rod is a motivator for the house elite of Narvik... if his guards are in the way -- they will not be for
you.
(hands the rod to the highborn agent)

"This is very much appreciated. <nods respectfully>. We are extremely grateful for your understanding and
support. We look forward into delving into the arcane with your scholars and uncovering civilizations long past
with your backing. These understandings will improve our houses in ways that are beyond what we can imagine and
we can imagine a lot. With these powers, our houses can rise above and persist into eternity. We find how to
return the Fetches home, and we can have influence among ALL the houses of the Empire. The gratefulness of the
Fetches would go a long way in rewards. It could also heal wounds in the Empire that have festered...."
"The Colony could be place to experiment with such possibilities..."

"We know influence with the fetch would greatly upset the balance of power in favor of the house that can fulfil
their wish.... sending a creature from this plane is no difficult task... but to do so for the fetch would
require sending them in a way the gods could not see."
"If such a way existed in the new world, I bid you find it... but where is a place that gods intentionally will
never look?"

"in themselves?" The highborn agent guessed.

"Even if the gods did not know themselves, other gods would know them. This is no ambiguous riddle. It is a
non-abstract problem to solve." The Hegemon Diplomat replied.

"This is something the highborn shall explore..."

"This meeting was not a waste of time... I shall tell Praxia Hegemon that the Vaethorion's agents are no fools."

The Highborn nods with politeness. "Thank you, likewise, I can see why Praxia Hegemon chose you to represent her
House's interest while away. Your hospitality and generosity will be repeated to the King and Queen of the
Eastern Highborn and they know how to reward friends of the Highborn. This will be remembered."

"May Hegemon and the Highborn be closer when the table of power is not so... crowded. In another world, in a
time to come."

"Agreed, We have been hearing that some at the tables have pointy elbows. They may pretend to serve the same
interests, but they serve only themselves. Only those who respect history, the arcane and the supernatural will
prevail in the coming wars. Those Muurdan who have sought allies of the Non Muurdan will have an advantage.
Those Muurdan like your House that turn to knowledge, to truth, to power of the beyond will rise to the top. The
Muurdan who have become weakened by the flesh and through pure oppression will be at a disadvantage. If the
Highborn present the understanding nature of the Hegemon to non Muurdan, they will gain other allies and more
importantly different venues of magical knowledge. The Highborn of the Colony themselves, who are famous for
their arrogance, and not known for their love of non-Highborn have been learning from other races and
discovering new magics unknown to our Mages. Their knowledge in our Mage Guild will be valuable in learning
about the Tears. The knowledge from the various races of the tears will be compiled. Overcoming prejudices is
making our colony stronger and the knowledge of the tears will easier to learn from. If I bring message of a
Muurdan House that respects our Colony it will make it harder for the Narvik and Touryan to gain influence,
because of some of the sensitive nature of histories of the Colonist. However, I think I the Highborn will make
it clear that House Hegemon love of knowledge will clear the way from the corrputing influence of the Narvik and
the Heavy Handedness of the Touryan and for this we find mutual interests."

"Your words are, as you say, Sagaceous. Take these two tears -- one of air and one of nature -- and use one of
the tears on this orb of steelglass -- bring it back to us. Keep the other tear for yourself."

"Will do, we will study it. <nods, bows head slightly and receives objects> . "Thank you once again for
receiving me. I will take my leave now and leave you to the rest of your affairs. Your Botanical garden is
something of beauty, Thank you for sharing it with me. Adieu."

"Farewell, Immortal."

 

[Shireling]

The Stoutmen Expedition
​

A chill ran through the colony when word reached New Harmony that a Muurdaan and an enterouge of House Elite had arrived. All evangelization efforts immediately ceased and clergymen began to operate in secret whenever they were called upon outside of New Harmony to provide ministry to the kobolds or to others. The upstart Kobold priest, who had been joined as an ecumenical assistant to one of the reverends, was introduced to the way priests normally operated in certain areas of the Home Country when the Muurdaan troops deemed a pogrom necessary. Traffic to the Market remained constant, although the Stouts were reluctant to talk long except to those they had already trusted. While the governor no-doubt knew of their presence, they had hoped that laying sufficiently low would not attract his ire.

Kearney, despite the best advice of his Draftstouts, decided to continue going in full priestly regalia to represent them in Learner's Square. He refused to be cowed, although he had not yet met or been summoned to meet the governor and he preferred it that way.

Away in the eastern woods, the Stouts began to prepare extra arms and armaments for the disastrous eventuality that they might be forced to fight, although they hoped that it didn't come to that. New orders were set by the taskmasters.

Spoiler: Permanent Assignments

1 Clergyman - Chapel of the Godhead
2 Clergymen - Grammar School
4 Draftstouts and 20 Stalwarts - Forester's Lodge hunters, trappers, and fishermen.
5 Draftstouts and 10 Stalwarts - Forester's lodge as timber-cutters.
10 Bulwarks - Guards
2 Draftstouts and 5 Stalwarts - Shepherds
2 Draftstouts and 5 Stalwarts - Ranchers/Chickens
3 Draftstouts and 2 Clergy - Trade School
1 Draftstout and 2 Stalwarts - Blacksmiths
1 Draftstout and 3 Stalwarts - Tannery
1 Draftstout and 5 Stalwarts - Textiles Mill
1 Draftstout and 1 Stalwart - Tailor

Spoiler: Active Labor Pool

Clergymen-5
Draftstouts-8
Stalwarts-45
Bulwarks-28
Crossblades-15

New Orders and Construction

5 Draftstouts and 20 Stalwarts sow the plowed ground with wheat, potatoes, carrots, beans, and corn.

2 Draftstouts and 12 Stalwarts continue to work on a Beer Distillery.

The remaining Draftstouts and Stalwarts (1 and 13) work on doing repairs both within New Harmony and in the wider colony, transporting goods, and building more permanent housing outside the city walls.

The Tailory begins to produce gambeson uniforms for a Stoutmen militia, alongside repairing the clothing of civilian clothing and making new clothing by purchase. The Tannery focuses its effort on making new boots for the colonists, and the Blacksmith is tasked with making polearms and light suits of armor using iron and strips of leather left over from the Tannery.

 

[Beckoncall]

Heyitsjiwon

Attolian Projects, Attolian Progress...

Dr. Flemming was largely un-needed with the coupling of the hiver prince and the brood queen... were the process not completely profane and unnatural, one might have assumed they had engaged in it before. The groaning relief of the brood queen was almost gag-inspiring and loud enough to offend sensibilities of all in the immediate area, but the product of the union was quickly seen and received... one hundred blood-red eggs, dripping with some repugnant... sauce. What writhed within the tall ovals looked like spiky, chitinous fetuses, occasionally one would shift and reveal large, compound eyes.

"My children will be ready early in the fall." the brood queen boasted. The hiver prince retired underground and into a deep hibernation -- he would not be heard from until the fall as well.

________

Talion the constructor ordered his seething fog of child-wraiths to gather bones from the base of the great tree and bear them to a Workshop in the blasted heath near the mana pools. Here, Skeletons were given hearts of fire and a mockery of life -- these were not undead, merely machines made of magic and bone. A larger scale operation demanded more wealth to increase the power of Talion's enchantment -- but the constructor was proud to have FIFTY tireless skeletons working the fields by week's end. They never stopped. They never needed to eat. The nights cold or the new spring afternoon's heat meant nothing to them. They planted, and they plowed, and the never stopped unless Talion called on them to be examined. The new Planting areas of the Attolians were ambitious in scale, but it seemed, even as the scythes fell in the night, that these dreams would easily be realized. Some were put off by the use of skeletons as labor -- but was it much stranger than the Twiceborn who occasionally visited the market? The twiceborn didn't seem to mind them either, but reminded the priests of the colony that the city ruins were still filled with skeletons that were haunted, truly lost souls in search of escape. Soon other farmers were left wondering what they might need to do to get their own "Bone-Automatons"... (50 skeletons work Attolian Farms non-stop. +1 influence Attolia)

________

With the recent militarization of the Attolians, it was no surprise the attolians took a page from the book of the highborn and began to fortify their structures. Wide but defensible entrances to the district were created, and the outer-most ring of houses in the district were filled in with defense-works and new homes to make a kind of natural fort on the outside and top of the district. Constables could now watch the entire district from above, and towers were built in the center and corner of the district which could be manned by missile troops (or motivated civilians so armed) -- windows were barred on the outermost areas, and some remodeling of the district enabled houses to "button-up" to repel invaders and the streets channeled largest numbers of people into open areas which during peacetime were areas of social forum and entertainment, but natural staging areas for battle (and kill zones for archers) should a conflict actually happen within the attolian housing district.

Lothar was impressed at how little the district LOOKED like a fort, but how well it might function as one.... Plenty of labor had made this happen.

________

Above the cliffs, The sirens investigated the sunken rubble of the ruined tower -- it was still terrible cold in the water atop shearcliffs, and ice floated at clotted in the lakes surface as it flowed to the falls to be shattered into pieces. What they found was perhaps what they expected but had to confirm -- a Spire -- just like that on the plains, this one was utterly dashed apart -- likely in whatever great geomancy caused the shearcliffs to rise above the ground around it. The tiniest bits of automatons lay buried deep in the mud, mud which held the majority of the tower fast. Bubbles roiled in the soupy mass at the base of the high lake, threatening to capture any siren careless enough to get mired in it. The top of the tower was nowhere to be found -- but the attolians were sure there must be, or have been, a massive magical device within it like the one in spire 9... It was easy enough to confirm suspicions, but nigh impossible to make progress with them. Spire 10 was demolished, and the lake had truly claimed it, as it lay in the present.

________

The Pantheon was promoted, and alms were given to the poor -- the Attolians had coin to spare. Emnity fell somewhat -- after all, it was the Tyren that were historically the richest in the colony, they only had been less ostentacious about it.

_________

The proud center tower of the attolian housing district doubled as a defensive fortification, but any close enough to it saw it served a primary purpose above high ground and fortification -- it was a great grain elevator, built around one of the less-needed construction cranes it would hold hopefully a great share of the coming bounty the colony had planned in planting. The appearance of stoutmen and attolian granaries were a promise against further winter hardship -- and the great and wise (and free) counsel and training in the learners square also won reknown. (all colony projects gain a bonus for spring -- +2 influence Attolia)

________

Investigation of the ratkin tunnels surely showed that tunnels had been sapped in the are of the blue paw clan... unfortunate outcome. No gunpowder use could be found or proven in the area near the attolians and the bottom line was that the tunnels were just too big to get a conclusive answer to this question. Still, some sabotage of the tunnels was evident, isolating the attolian area tunnels from the rest of the network.

________

 

[Beckoncall]

General Deth Glitch

Of Life and Growth Unseen...
Growth in the dwarf hold continued as plan, Tending to livestock and finally growing to a level where halls and platforms began to take shape. The Rhunk in particular had to be fed large swatches of fungi constantly -- to the point where their grazing began to outstrip the growth in central areas of the caverns. Work, under direction of the Firebeard Fortifier made the subterranean complex a Masterwork of civil defense. Redundant barriers, portcullis, hatches and slats for observation and defense became standard issue to any dwarven construction of non-negligible length.

The care and feeding of Windmaggots and Rhunk began to wear on supply levels of forage-able materials and the Firebeards had to import additional food, which was still scarce, from the newly reopened markets. (-1 wealth Firebeards, market wealth = 11)

The lightning project would need to find place for workshopping ideas farther away from the dwarfhold. Proximity to the great trees virtually guaranteed all lightning would never reach even the most inviting lightning rods placed on the plains. Lightning routinely struck the ocean but capturing it proved unpredictable on the coastline and dangerous were dwarfs to try to go out closer to the barrier. It was suggested that if lightning experiments were to take place, they should be done in the mountains to the east or on shearcliffs.

Beyond that, The dwarves looked for folk and faction interested in joining them on a brewery project -- though several breweries already had popped up in harun'taras, the excavation, the theater district, and in stoutlands. Time would tell if other factions were interested in joining the dwarfs.

Beyond that, nothing amiss befell the dwarfs -- the newly arrived muurdaan goons kept their distance, and no interlopers attempted to challenge the work of the dwarves.

The boulder of dwarven industry had begun rolling, and at present it was moving steadily along... like perhaps an avalanche begins...

 

[Beckoncall]

Highborn contribute great wealth to the capitol building! (+3 Influence Highborn!)

Prince Vaethorion

 

[Pat]

The soon-to-be-crowned King of the Merdwarf people, Triton, drew back from the periscope upon the completion of an initial scan of the coastline to address his followers from the command deck of the submarine that has brought them to the New World. "We are to use the unpleasant aura of the Howling Isle to conceal our presence from both the Colony itself and the possibly existent and hostile sea civilization farther east; establishing our settlement within the base of the Daunting Cliffs directly to the right of this geographical anomaly." He ordered as the crewdwarves of the dying Styx continued to bail out the submarine and went to work readjusting its course to the seemingly equally unnatural formation of rock looming before them. Closing his eyes, he remembered another wall, the Barrier... A shimmering sheet of white light that rippled like an aurora from east to west all along the horizon and stretched as far as the eye could see above, that his vessel came across not so long ago. In the moments before he and his kin passed through the tear in the ever-weakening artificial magical construct of the Mage Kings, it seemed as if the ocean would go on forever before them. The moment they were through however - a whole new land was unveiled and the Barrier simply vanished, as if it had never even existed in the first place.

Triton put his hand on a shoulder of a marine who just got off duty and bid him to search for and assemble the series of talented individuals Triton had recruited for this expedition: Marlinn and Salomon, the miners, Rudders, the fortifier, Reif, the trapper, Sharq, the engineer, Forde, the blacksmith, Koral, the animunculist, Rey, the doctor, and Maste and Moor, the agriculturalists, followed by Saile, captain of the guards. All coming before him now were necessary in his mind for initial establishment until further immigrants from the Old World could reinforce their party. "When we disembark Marlinn and Salomon will together oversee two work details together consisting of twenty souls, themselves included, in the carving of a ten meter wide by ten long meter by ten meter tall room into the very bottom of the Daunting Cliffs. Marlinn will oversee the first shift of ten, and Salomon, the second shift of equal number. The two groups switching between periods of labor and rest every hour, with the first shift beginning the cycle. They will both be accompanied and aided where needed by Rudders, Reif, and Sharq, who will pool their respective minds and efforts to see that our home is not only a fortress capable of withstanding hostile forces indefinitely, but will additionally remain structurally sound for habitation by our future generations. This first room will initially serve dual purposes as shelter and storage. Forde, Koral, Rey, along with the remaining twelve of our workforce, will disassemble the sub and upon completion of the first room move it inside with the aid of every free hand at our disposal. Myself, Maste, and Moor, escorted by three marines, will forage and hunt within Sunken Shoals and then the Deep Vault, primarily focusing on collecting coral, fish, and the lichen we observed earlier, in addition to any other notable resources or artifacts. All five of our warriors and the remaining half of our marines including and led by Saile will guard the miners and keep watch. If any indigenous fish folk scouts are detected, and are of manageable number, they are to be disposed of as quickly as possible so that our existence remains unknown to them."

​

Spoiler

Location of the Merdwarf Settlement

​

​

 

[Beckoncall]

Tyren Craft and Ways...

It was not long before the protective suits for the mine of vines were constructed. Expected to last at least a couple of seasons, it would ablate at a rate the wearers were exposed to hostile energies.

Sinana created with her stoneshaping the lodestone Antimagic armor -- enough armor for 20 tyren was made, in breastplates.

The Tyrenborn recieved "Carapace armor of agility" -- and are now swift of foot and almost of wing with their jumping!

Organic barbed and stingered weapons, in particular spears, daggers, and arrows, are made from the onlyday bugs.

In the bark-bound tome, secrets revealed themselves easily to Deryn, and by extension of that, Anuc -- after a few weeks of study, Anuc is stitching flesh and fusing bone with waves of her hand! (Anuc becomes a LIFE MAGE)

Mithril in the mine of vines is asked for, and the mine of vines delivers! (+8 units of mithril are drawn from the ground in great shards!)
"Many are the tendrils, the mine is strong"

Tyren crops are tended to and carrot and rabbit remain a staple of the colony at market.

Bushels of Bramble gems are falling from shearcliff! (+6 units of bramble gem produced!)

Training of the Bloodtouched continue, with each of them able to defeat multiple warriors in single combat... still, a honed edge begins to appear in their fury!

 

[Beckoncall]

Fennec Orders... and Paranoia?

Booze production resumes as the great factory building begins it's construction, including the underground tunnels of the giant Pengalins. The frame of the structure takes shape -- but additional labor will be needed before it truly assumes it's form.

The farms and apiary are much more quickly restored however, despite the labor shortage, the witches and their workers get crops back into full swing and the spring planting is off to a great start!

The fennec delegation goes to see to it negotiating the release of the prisoners -- only to see the Governor, Phelot, leaving the Attolian Jail building ahead of all their sought after brethren!

"By order of the governor, we are free fennec!" shouted one.

"They interrogated and terrorized us and attempted to get us to turn on the organization! I lied and said I would, and they gave me the title Agent 7!"

"I was called agent 23!"

"Twenty three of you turned on the organization?"

"PRETENDED TO!"

"But at least 23?!"

Many odd glances were cast about, the prisoners not trusting each other -- and the free fennec wondering just if they could still be counted on to remain loyal...

 

[Beckoncall]

DIRE BEAR HUNTING!

9 Miscreated, 6 armed with Heavy Hunting Spears and 3 with Halberdiers and hand axes at their wastes with 3 Dunsia Assassins with poisoned heavy crossbows, 18 Hooded Warrors to ensure easy and efficient kills, and 3 Black Surgeons are sent to hunt Dire Bears in 3 teams of 3 Miscreated, 1 Dunsia, 6 Hooded Warriors and 1 Surgeons.

Strategy for hunting them will be to draw one out of it's cave, the Dunsia will shoot them with poisoned bolts and the Miscreated will wait until the poison has had its effect before going in for the kill by surrounding it and goreing it with their polearms.

FOUR DIRE BEARS ARE SLAIN EASILY AND EFFECTIVELY IN THIS MANNER, and the black surgeons immediately see to carving and breaking them up. While some miscreated died in the hunting, the net gain in miscreated was +10 Miscreated made by the Black doctors!
Matted horrors they were, with misshapen muscle pulled over inappropriate bone structures. Hideous things.