The Nations of Ederyon

[GrieveWriter]

In the world of Ederyon many realms exist. From floating mountains to massive labyrinths these Realms can range beautiful to soul crushingly disgusting. But despite the conditions of some, many of these realms are occupied by a plethora of various creatures who strive in their different environments.


And also residing within these different realms are civilizations, civilizations of various origins and mindsets. Some of these nations were forged from peace, some forged from strife. No matter their origin, one thing remains clear...


...only time will tell where they move from here.

 

[GrieveWriter]

Windy...


That was the most accurate word to summarize this particular day's weather, simply windy. Not stormy in any way, nor much of a cumbersome wind type, it was just a noticeable increase in wind.


Despite the underwhelming aspects of the day's weather, the Lands of Ederyon were anything but. Numerous Nations on various continents occupied by a large variety of beings, from large to small. What things would these various nations be up to on this particular slightly windy day, and where would these actions lead them in the near future? How would they effect one another, and how would they effect the world of Ederyon as a whole?


We shall see where the actions of these beings lead them, indeed we shall see...


(@DefendKebab1918 )(@venomcloud )(@general ostruppen )(@player2 )(@Dtheraider )(@General Deth Glitch )(@Yonsisac )(@Anaxial )(@Beowulf ) You may post)

 

[Soviet Panda]

And as the wind blew, it gently touched the floating cities of the Uros. The wind was only a small nuisance, slightly shifting them all towards the ocean. If the wind was to continue blowing like this, they would no doubt meet up with a few other cities that were blown out to the sea. What a nasty place, the sea. If you fell, your clothes would drag you down to be eaten by whatever lurked in the depths. The warm dry sands of their home was where their god put them, and so it was their that they were most comfortable. But the goddess weaved what she willed, and this thread that most others would call wind would no doubt create something beautiful.


Around the world, merchants of the Uros tied themselves down with stones, to keep them from blowing away in the wind during a discussion between hos much one's silk was worth. It is a common joke among merchants, of the Uros at any rate, to say "Did your silk blow away in this wind, or did you?" at the expense of a fellow that did not do so well on a trade.


Their military, what ever people decided to sign up in a time of piece, were practicing arieal formations and manuvers, taking advantage of the constant wind that was blowing, wings raising and lowering not to produce lift, but to increase manuverability. The larger ships sat gracefully in the air, sails full and effortlessly moving through the skies. A hawk to the sparrows that flitted around it.


Three different locations, vastly different people, all doing vastly different things. The one thing that was constant, however, was the constant sound of music that was around them, produced either by chimes hanging from them or by their speach, which is akin to a flute. Then went about their day with each step looking like it might lead to a brief dance. In some cases, the younger cases, it was a brief spin before returning to whatever task it was that was on their mind, be it chores or play.


All was as it should be. But the elders could sense a storm coming, and they were hunkering down.

 

[player2]

Rithus stood proudly at the bow of the ship as it came slowly into port of Simith Raan, its bow easily parting the water to either side as the anchor was thrown over, jerking the ship forward as it caught on the muddy soil beneath. The sights and smells of the port washed over him as he stepped over the rail of the ship and made his way onto the docks, his boots thumping dully. Two Viscounts met him, standing out starkly against the background of common laborers and soldiers moving goods and preparing ships, their person covered in a fine tunic adorned with jewels. One had a hard set face with a pair of pursed lips that seemed to be never fated to part as he breathed solely through his large nostrils and the other looked as if he were to both run you a race and steal your food at the same time, with a long, thin face and matching body. In contrast to his two vassals Rithus himself donned a military chest piece, sturdy metal sheets layered on top of each other, with dark red shoulder insignias pinned onto his left breast, a cape of the matching color thrown over his shoulders lazily, its end dirty and ragged with travel. In addition he was filled out with rest of an officer's uniform, boots filled with leather soles and a gleaming sword with a jeweled pommel, having belonged to one of his fallen officers as he had just came back from quelling a incursion of savages along the northern mountains.


As the two vassals weaved their way through the crowd Rithus slowly followed, greeting the populous with a smile and a charismatic wave as he passed through. It was no doubt that he preferred to walk among the common people rather than stay cooped up in his court, and had on occasion made his way out on nightly escapades to do just that during his time as prince. But now he was a king and that meant everyone was watching him. Over the past few months he had started to gain ambition and taste for the courts of law and politics, knowing fully well that he could not act foolish any longer. But of course him being king would not stop him from exploring the city as his vassals left him, so determined to get back to the Itherius Comparthi, which was the center building of the city. He stopped for a moment, checking once for the two before breaking away from the crowd and taking a walk down an alleyway, his hands running along the walls, small granules of dirt falling to the ground. After a moment he stepped back out into another street, the sounds and smells of the docks hitting him first before His eyes were filled with the wonders of the city as it opened itself to him. Everywhere from the docks bustling with common workers to the Elden district where beautiful gardens bloomed seemed to be enjoyable in its partaking. The city itself seemed to be a warm hearted lover, sprawled out across the coast with the shimmering waters that surrounded it as its sheets. People walked the streets, their faces and hands worn and dirty from their work, and men with large broom moved the shit and trash away from the common pathways, pushing them to the side or lifting them into buckets to remove later, and aristocrats walking in bright colors as if peacocks. As he ran made his way through the crowd he could see the Crathin Elden rising over the tops of buildings to pierce the dark blue sky.


Before long he starts to make his way back, getting to the steps of the Itherius Comparthi just after dark. Upon entering the officers and other officials of the state bow, prostrating low on the ground until he passed them, which he does quickly, his boots clanking against the flooring of the building. He first makes his way to the Tith, or eating room, opening the large wooden door and stepping inside. The talking quickly reduces itself to a small mumur as he stands in the doorway. Infront of him were twenty or so officials, eating, with a lit fireplace illuminating the room in its crackling glow. With a smile painted on his face he walked to the end of the table, putting his gloved hand on those who would stand up to bow as if to push them back down, taking the seat at the end of the table. Almost exactly as he sat down servants came to him holding platters of duck, boar, breads, and various other meaty dishes and setting them down on his plate along with a large goblet of a heady yellowish wine called Guldblash. As they set down his food he took off his gloves, setting the heavy gauntlets to side before taking a long swig of his guldblash, the bitter-sweet liquid warming his body and throat, setting the cup down with a thump followed by an exaggerated gasp as he looked over to a servant girl and shot her a smile, moving his free hand around as if allowing the others to eat before taking a large piece of greasy boar meat and pushing it into his mouth.


Afterwards they talked for some time, at first it was about the natives that were always encroaching to the north and this years crops but as the night waned the conversation turned to bolder things as the men in the room turned their attention to the conquest that was to be had. As far as anyone at the table was concerned there was no one to stop them from taking Ekrosi peninsula to the east or sail across the Ero sea to the west and all across the land roughly 32000 troops stood idly by waiting for a command. Before the dinner had ended the men in that room had decided, for the betterment of the people and state of the empire 3200 troops would march to war on the summer solstice of the common calendar and that this ordinance would be established among the public the following morning so that the training of troops, manufacturing of both ships and weapons could be taken under way as soon as possible. After finishing the discussion Rathis made his way to the state rooms, standing out on the balcony of his room overlooking the city, a strong wind blowing across him and pushing the red and gold silk curtains wildly to and fro for a moment as he took in everything, knowing that his father would be proud.

 

[Yonsisac]

Windy is what would best describe this day...was like any other day mostly just without the clouds covering our light blue sky,Markov the Juggernaut Commander of the draken militia,the juggernaut militia more specific,standing tall and straight with his wings closed upon his body like a cloak with his hands behind his back,his neck-up was only visible,the large red scaled drake was standing at the arena,s Platform,the crowd sat on there seats as they waited for the convict to walk in,Markov stood beside the queen "Silvera Sol" not to far just a few feet away as she sat down with scales of silver and eyes of a emerald,the king on the other hand was "Ruthal Borlok" siting down beside the beautiful queen,bulky and tall as a warrior with scales of dark sand and eyes of cobalt,his claws tap the arm of its throne,the convict was a male drake of just 206 years that was convicted of Murder of his lover and son,such crime will not be accepted.




The king grunt as he would stand up and raise his left arm high to the heavens as the deep voice of a beast of night roars at the empty arena

"RELEASE THE MURDERER! MAY HE SUFFER FOR THUS CRIME!"

He roar as it echo through the arena,the crowd stood on its feet and cheer like a rainbow,drakes of many colors from red,blue,purple,white,pink,grey,brown and many more made the corners look like a pot of gold was near,a set of two massive bone doors under where the Royal,s sat Open slightly as the convict was push inside by force of two guards,the look on his eyes was of terror and fear,Shaking as his head rotate all over the empty arena full of just sand,a sword was drop behind him as the two massive doors close behind him leaving him just with his sword and body.

"I'm innocent! I dint kill them! by the name of Dorreen! I dint i swear!"

The convict yelled as he look up t the crowd and king,but all was heard where roars of the people for him to die,suffer and to be finish with,the king standing with his hand up high would close his fist giving the signal,on the opposite side the same set of doors would open but a beast was release,covered in dark plates as coal,Pincers of blades and eyes of the Underworld,as a Crystal scorpion was release in the arena,large and menacing it Click its mandibles looking at the convict.

"May Dorreen be with you...."

The king said as he sat back down beside his queen as this court was in session.


The drake with wide eyes quickly grab the sword shivering like a leaf as the critter slowly tap its spider like feet towards him getting closer and closer,the crowd Roar and cheer,with swift speed the scorpion would lower itself before Lunging forward towards the convict,its massive Glass tail thrust down on its leap,the convict dint do a fight but begin to flee from the creature but was of no avail as the creature swing its crystal tail in a horizontal way as a large thorn of crystal was flung towards him,impaling the convicts left leg,he fell and roar in pain as the creature made its way towards him "AGH! IM INNOCENT!! PLEAS BY THE GODS STOP THIS!" He roar in vain of his auctions as his last breath was put to rest as the large carapace bite down on his neck with its sharp mandibles,sinking deep till its vertebra was at its reach.


(don't want to add much gore)


As it ended Markov walk behind the queen and king escorting them to the safety of the castle,2 "Juggernaut Vanguard" accompany Mark in there escort,armored to the teeth with heavy armor and holding a Trident of a weapon,but the king stop as he turn around and look at his trusted commander and said "Markov i heard what happened back in the Bone graveyard...."

"My lord thus You have nothing to worry...the Devil is still alive but we escape in time"


"oh...i see...If the devil is sighted again....Make sure its dead the next time we thus meet it..if not...I will announce a Universal Bounty on it,the beast must be slain"


"Yes my lord"

as the small talk was done the king node and disappear in its castle as the doors closed behind him,the vanguards stood beside each side of the door in guard,markov nodded as he would turn around and begin his walk back to the city state...to have a cooling walk,as he did he would pull out from his pocket a jagged fang,the size of a open palm covered in sharp micro hooks,Black blood covered the fang as it gave out a odd dark Blooded Glow....it was a fang of the "Devil" that keeps causing trouble in the boneyard.

"I will find you.....and thus send you to the underworld...Devil"


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




Meanwhile in Estovakia the city of the mountains was Busy like any day,the Miners from the deep underground Harvest minerals and extract stones and needed resources,the city itself was mostly made of Bone structures as wood was scares,most of the city was outside in the slightly cold weather of the mountains as the workers live inside and sometimes came out for fresh air.


In liondar was peaceful with traders selling goods as boats came in and out of the docks,Hunting hermits for meat and fishing and much more,the "Pillar of dawn" and "Pillar of dusk" the 2 lighthouses that where massive pillars of stone with Blazing flames on the top fueled by fire stone and the breath of drakes themselves,it was a hot day and many came there thees days as resent sightings of shen hermits where sighted,walking in the deep waters.
​

 

[Anaxial]

Aboard the rickety old ship, the damnable crew of Deep Ones shambled about performing various seaworthy tasks. Be it tieing line, hoisting shores into place on the haul of the aged ship. The vessel seemed to be made of more barnacles and coral than it was wood, it's sail was torn and waved weakly even in the strong winds of the this particular day. While the cloth catching wind helped carry the ship across the open waters of the Ocean it was the Mollusks that clung to the bottom of the ship and waved their tentacles that truly propelled the ship. Rotten wood and decaying crews made up this Eldritch crew to their target.


Standing on the bow of the ship, Dathan Aeces watched the dark waters flow by, clinging to barnacle encrusted figurehead that once resembled a woman; now it resembled a twisted amalgamation of life, corrupted the Dark One's everlasting lust for the sea. Large eyes scanned his beloved ocean, the open water may strike fear into the average sailor's heart and rightfully so, as it was Dathan and his ilk that made these abyssal waters so treacherous. Turning his scaled face to the sky he compared the horizon to several of his webbed fingers, judging they had nearly half a day left before nightfall the Pelagic Captain waddled across his decrepit decking and reached the center of the ship's weather deck. Reaching from the main deck to the keel was a large drum that two of the Deep Ones waited by, when they saw Dathan's approach they raised their drumsticks. He needn't say a word for them to beat the drums and signal to the Mollusks below to quicken their swim. They didn't fear the dark, Dathan merely had places to be before nightfall.


The ship began to speed up slowly at first but it was noticeably faster after a few minutes had gone by. Dathan retreated to his Cabin, the door located on the aft end of the ship's main deck. Inside the cabin, puddles of green stagnant water splashed under his webbed feet, the pitter patter of water dripping from the wood of the ceiling was the only noise to accompany the tick tock of a surprisingly well kept grandfather clock that stood just next to the stained glass of the Captain's cabin. A rotten barnacle covered desk sat in the center of the room, hermit crabs skittering across the surface as Dathan sat down and gave the drawer a quick tug, breaking apart many of the barnacles on the desk. Inside was an old, faded map, kept dry as to not fade the ink the effort seemed in vain as the once black ink was a faded light grey.


The map showed Kagg'xush island, small bits of the surrounding continents and had dotted lines that signified sailing routes some more faded than others. Dathan's unblinking eyes glanced over the map with malice, his finger trailing one of the sail paths before it stopped abruptly against a small island that was off the coast of a larger continent. a freshly marked black 'X' was over that small island. His voice rumbled from deep within his gullet, ominous and dark this was a creature of malice and ill-intent.


"Thut ut sha Santhsiaa'x..." he said, tapping the X with his finger. He peered up from the map to see the Cabin door creaking open, just outside was a massive creature, almost 11 feet tall it couldn't fit through the small door to the cabin. This was a crustacean, a Deep One of prodigious size, strength, and intelligence. Lacking vocal cords the Deep One merely peered back with his black dot eyes, his figure clicking a bit as it cocked it's head. Dathan curled his lips into what could be interpreted as a wicked smile and carried the map to the door so the massive Deep One could see.


"Wa a'a thftuta, gha ghuftft 'aathh shut gatsa'gftx lftatha shiats at nughs raftftt ang sha 'ianaghax Hxft'ugt aftung ghuftft aftft ghhu ha'ftu' shan ghuftft raaft uia' gh'ash!" he said, the Crustacean clacked its claws excitedly in response and lumbered back away from the Cabin, resuming it's position on the Deck; crouched low and keep watch over the horizon for enemy vessels.


The ship was well on it's way to destroy those who would give the Hybrids solace, the damnable offspring live to serve and nothing more! They will perish along with those foolish enough to protect them. The Pelagic Cohort sailed onward!





@General Deth Glitch

 

[Spacekitty]

King Terranbar sat upon his throne. It was a massive pure mithral seat raised 10 feet into the air. Its edges were outlined in the purest gold and diamonds were studded along these golden bands. The throne itself was worth several kings treasure hordes, more than enough for even a dwarf. Terranbar had always thought the throne to be quite a waste, a simple gold or even stone throne would of sufficed. The amount of mithral in the throne alone was enough for many suits or armor and an entire armory of weapons. But the throne has been there when Terranbar had led his people back to their great hall, and he dare not touch for fear of angering Moradin and being banished once more.


As Terranbar sat upon his throne he gazed at the great cavern un which it sat. Several faints tall and many wide, it was the largest in all of the world, as far as he was concerned anyways. Up above many bridges were over head, stretching from one end of the great hall to another. Upon these bridges were many dwarves. Some were pushing carts filled to the brim with ores or finely crafted tools. Others were simply taking a stroll, talking with their fellow dwarves. Most notable of all were the patrolling guards clad in shinning mithral. These were the Mithral Guard, the elite defenders of Mithral Hall. Terranbar smiled, for he knew as long as one member of the guard still stood, Mithral hall could not fall.


Terranbar gazed across the floor of the cavern, which was covered by roads of pure gold. Several masterly carved statues covered the floor. One particular one was surrounded by a horde of Dwarf children, all studying it intently while their instructor spoke. They were apprentices, probably around 40-50 years. Their teacher was a renown sculpted, having of created one of the statues in the hall itself. The teacher was pointing out flaws in the long forgotten sculptors work. These flaws, so small and un-notice able, were only visible to the keen eye of a Dwarven sculptor. The teacher used this as a lesson for the young Dwarves- never settle for anything less than perfection in your work.


Terranbar enjoyed sitting upon his throne, watching over his people. Sadly his kingly duties often got I'm the way. His duties, while an honor, were somewhat boring. Terranbar longed for adventure once more, something exciting. Something like his quest to find this great hall itself, and be might get his chance.


The latest Dwarven invention was his chance. These great flying ships were theorized to be able to fly across the world and back. This theory was not tested as of yet, but a crew was getting ready to fly out on a medium sized airship and test its limits- and do a little bit of adventuring while they were at it. And Terranbar intended to join them.


Terranbar sat upq from his lazy slouch on his throne. his top advisor and assistant did likewise from his small and less ornate seat.


"Sire?" he asked.


Terranbar got up from his throne. It was time.


"Some one get me my armor!" he shouted. Several random.dwarves, who weren't even his servants rushed to get his armor.


"Sire, what is going on?" he advisor questioned somewhat nervously.


Terranbar turned towards his advisor. He was a rather short and weak Dwarf named Fender. Terranbar rather liked the Dwarf, nit that he would admit it anyhow, but he was a but odd. Fender was rather nervous and unskilled in the ways of the Dwarf.


"I'm going on that airship Fender. Me bones will rot on this throne if I don't!" Terranbar growled as he put on his mithral armor.


"But sire, who will lead us.. What if someth-"


"Enough already!" Terranbar shouted. At this Fender went stiff and shut his mouth. "You will rule in my place. Now good bye, i have an airship to catch!"


Fender started to call out as Terranbar set off at a brisk pace but quickly closed his mouth. He wasn't going to change Terranbar's mind and he knew it.


As Terranbar jogged through the great hallways of his home he could feel the excitement building up inside of him. He was going on an adventure of a lifetime. The first to fly across the world in a Dwarven airship. As he ran many Dwarfs stopped and gawked curiously as their King ran past in full Mithral battle armor. When Terranbar burst through the iron doors that led to the airship hangar he was greeted by a platoon of DarkSteel legionaries who stood ridicously.


The commander of the platoon, a Dwarf named Sendat was the first to speak.


"Sire...?" he asked, questioningly.


"What are you all starin at!" Terranbar roared excitedly, "Lets get to work, this airship ain't gunna fly itself!"


The Legionnaires stared at each other for a moment, then broke out in cheers. Their King was coming with them on their adventure, what more could a Dwarf ask for?


As the Legionnaires got back to work preparing the airship, Terranbar gazed upon it and all its glory. It was decent sized, almost 30 meters long, 10 meters wide and hosting 8 12inch cannons on each side and 2 in the front and back. These Dwarven cannons would back loaded and could be loaded rather quickly. The hull of the airship was made of a dark brown wood with hardened Iron bands on the outside running parallel to the hull. If one could see inside the hull they would see that the hull was braced internally with iron beams. On several points on the ship propellers jutted out of the ship. 2 for each direction. These propellers were controlled by a complex series of internal gears.


The top deck of the airship featured a short railing (Dwarves aren’t known for being tall) with had several 6inch cannons lining the deck. Several ropes were attached to knobs on the top deck. These ropes secured the hide balloon to the ship. This hide balloon was wrapped around an iron frame as to retain its ship and was filled with an extremely light gas found deep underground. If a cannon ball where to hit the balloon, it would simply be bounced off. If a ballista’s arrow were to hit it, it would rip a hole in it rather than popping it. This hole would eventually cause the ship to no longer be flyable but it would take multiple holes to send the ship crashing down.


As Terranbar boarded the ship he was quick to discover that the top deck was rather plain, nothing he hadn’t seen already. Next he ventured to the lower deck, which was accessible by a short flight of wooden stairs that was hidden by a trap door in the top deck. The bottom deck was much more interesting. The cannons that lined the deck sat a turn tables rotated by a small wheel that turned a set of gears, enabling side to side and up and down motion. In the center of the room sat a wooden room reinforced with a thin sheet of bronze. Inside this room sat the ammo and most importantly, the complex gear system that powered the ships propellers. The ship itself was controlled by a single man who sat in a rather simplistic wooden chair and turned a series of wheels, each connected to a different propeller. This Dwarf was able to “see” what was around the ship using a variety of periscopes the Dwarfs had ingeniously invented. If all else failed others would simply yell at him from the top deck.


…


As the airship lifted into the air it quickly raised above the highest peak of the Mithral mountains. The win in his hair, the Mithral Mountains below him and wide world before him, this was the life he loved. What adventures awaited him on his journey? As the ship headed east only time would tell…

 

[General Deth Glitch]

This ungoldly howl that racked through the town of Vitraxia, Capital of the Sanctuary, was driving His Lordship mad. A strong wind would gift them with a quiet whistling noise and a calm day brought only the sounds of the creatures that inhabited the beautiful land that was the Sanctuary, in more than just name. It was often posed to His Lordship Averiax, especially on days like this one "How is it that such a peaceful, relaxing nation, always seems to have an idea on what it is other nations are up to?" To which he would always laugh and say "What do you think it is that people, who have no home and nation to call their own anymore, are most willing to tell you? Even without asking?" Slower minded individuals might say things like "Their name?" or "How they survived?" But those with a quicker mind, those like his Lordship would answer, quite rightly "Anything and everything about their homeland." It was not such a day as that, no one felt the need to ask how the Sanctuary knew this, or how the Sanctuary knew that. This was because the Sanctuary felt safe, secure. Their allies seemed satisfied with the Sanctuaries promises and their neighbors happy with their gifts of Gold and Knowledge.


Today was one of those days so dull that his Lordship would have welcomed such a question, such a way to show his wit and ingenuity, not that he would ever be so rash as to admit it. It was time for lunch, being that today was windy, most of the more important members of the court chose to eat in the feasting hall as it was well heated and safe from the wind, even, to a lesser extent, safe from the horrible moaning and howling the wind made. The Feasting hall, one of the larger buildings within Vitraxia, was generally abandoned except for special occasions.. or.. windy days. You see, unlike the mighty kingdoms and empire that covered the world of Ederyon, The Sanctuary was a very humble place, a center of learning and freedom where all can find sanctuary, so long as they pose a threat. It was this that gave the nation its diverse variety of species, nearly all the races of Ederyon could be found within its borders. Its diversity was another safety net it held, many were unwilling to attack nations who were so welcoming to their kind or, ones that contained members of their kind. However Averiax was no fool, he knew of peoples petty ambitions and knew also that, while the Sanctuary would provide little military advantage other then its tactical and defendable location, as well as providing little in supplies and increased manpower, it was weaker then its neighbors and so it was only time before some young king who wanted a quick shot at glory would target them, which is why he focused so hard of keeping good relations with his neighbors, making sure they know that The Sanctuary is more valuable as a friend, hopefully, making their beleive it to be valuable enough to go to war defending.


As he was finishing devouring the large, but not too grand, meal set out before him and his court, he was expecting more monotony within the Hall of Light, where the throne room and all other areas important to running an nation were held, such as Mjorns beloved and ever so well kept 'war room' though it was technically a den of espionage, holding all the information the Sanctuary knew on the movements and plans of their enemies and visually representing them on one of two boards, one showing all of Ederyon, and other showing all of their Continent, which they called 'The Center' since it is, generally speaking, in the middle of Ederyon. Yes, he was expecting to do something thusly as he heard the calls and replies from soldiers and mages training outside. Not that they trained all day, or even everyday, the military force of the land was really for emergencies and keeping the land safe from bandits and such. They trained four out of every five days for a total of two hours, having the rest of the time to tend to other duties. Though thats not to say that the military of The Sanctuary could not stand up to a battle, certainly, their skilled commanders came from all walks of life and brought with them all different military ideas and methods, resulting in a well trained militia with the military tactics of nearly every nation on Ederyon.


Then Mjorn came up to Averiax and asked him if he would like to go hunting with him. Averiax, loved Mjorn like both a brother and an uncle. Since he was young Averiax has had Mjorn around to solve his problems, save him from the wild and teach him the finer things in life.. like hunting. With a smile Averiax grabbed a spear from the armory and looked at Mjorn "I would much like to revisit the past, when you were teaching me to hunt. Not that I have forgotten the times you almost got me killed my good Friend"


Mjorn chuckled the hearty chuckle that only a good dwarf can manage "Ahh but m'lord I never did let it take ye' last breath, Aye, twas I recall you finding ways to make sure I rushed to ye' aid, tryin' tae kill a boar with a sword, I know ya' wus barely a bearn but ya dinnae need tae go get yesel' killed." He he said patting him across the back.

 

[Obi-Wan Kenobi]

Mordius Calthorn leaned back deeper into his throne, a hard and relatively plain affair. Plain compared to those of many others. He didn't need to show off anything, or prove anything. No, he was secure in his own power, and if people underestimated him by his throne, then all the better. The wind was rushing lazily through the room, doing not much at all. Nothing was doing much at all. It was a slow, uneventful time for Jorgand. There were no wars going on to his knowledge, nobody had made any diplomatic contact for the past month, barring the usual wishes of good will from the Sanctuary. Everything was going smoothly, which was also unusual. Training drills were going excellently, and the navy was growing all the time in both ships, manpower, and skill. And yet the wind held some taste of threat. Of an oncoming storm. It didn't feel foreboding, but the recent boredom had left Mordius somewhat on edge, and this felt like another piece building up to something. He needed to think on this.


After another hour of this sitting and pondering, Mordius decided that he should go and ensure operations were smooth at the port, and maybe inspect his ships. In truth, he was just trying to distract himself. One found themselves with a surprising amount of time to kill when they didn't need food, drink, or sleep. It was a curious existence, but one that allowed great vigilance and attention to detail, as one could have twice the time in a day to attend to things. A great boon in terms of the management of an entire nation. In the management of anything, really. A second thought occurred to him, that he should seek advice on this matter. Fortunately, his destination would more than likely cover both agendas.


It was a short trip for Mordius to reach the ports. The silence was broken only by a chorus of woodworking sounds, saws sliced and hammers hit home as skeletal shipwrights shaped new warships for the Kel'var. He strolled leisurely through the harbour, past all the towering Ships of the Line and the diminutive but deadly Sloops. About him, skeletons hustled and bustled, moving around on various errands. Up on a slightly raised tower, a high level Freeson was barking orders with a ghostly voice. The lines of skeletons parted smoothly around Mordius as he moved. Some minutes of walking later, he came up on the heaviest ships in the dock. They were massive affairs, cannons bristling from almost everywhere cannons could bristle from. Mordius peered up, looking for a particular person and simultaneously scanning for him with his magical senses. Almost immediately, he felt it. The man was up in the crows nest of a ship. Mordius tapped his staff, and suddenly his surroundings shifted to the crows nest on the front mast of one of the greatest ships in harbour currently, the Great Blue, looking out over the seas.


Beside him was the Shipmaster, Volkov Esta, peering out to the sea with a silver spyglass. Following his gaze, Mordius could make out small shapes in the distance, wheeling impossibly in the sea. The Schooners on patrol were doing some maneuver drilling while out on their route. Volkov was a man who looked in his forties, with a creased face that looked like it had felt too many emotions too often. His build towered over most people, and many say he should have been a warrior. Mordius always thanked whatever higher powers existed, if any indeed did, that this had not been Volkov's fate. Volkov was a highly competent Shipmaster, and capable of great insight on occasion. There was a reason that Volkov was always the first man Mordius turned to for counsel, and it was for that very reason that Mordius had sought him out now.


Volkov lowered the spyglass and swiveled his head to face Mordius, "Ah, My Liege." he began in his always-slightly-slurred voice. It was curious. Mordius had never seen the man drink a drop of alcohol, and yet he always sounded as if he'd just had six glasses of it. Mordius raised a hand to cut him off. "Volkov, please. You and I know each other well enough to be on first name terms." Mordius calmly told him, with a hint of a smile. Volkov nodded slowly, taking in the information and, unless Volkov had changed something fierce, tossing it right back out. "Yes, My L- Mordius," he quickly corrected himself. Volkov took a moment to set his features back to a more composed state. "What do you want me to do, Mordius?" The grave ruler considered his answer, turning over how to best broach this subject. "A storm is coming." Mordius pronounced. "Indeed." Volkov answered simply, but his tone belied that Volkov knew he wanted to say more. "It is... disquieting me. I am unsure if it is simply the calm of the past few weeks, or whether it is a sign." he said, a little more speedily than he'd intended. "I fear I cannot put your mind at ease. Our minds are one on this matter." Volkov told him, showing little of his famous insight. The two stood in the crows nest, discussing back and forth for several hours while the day wore on. The sun soon sank under the sea's sapping stillness, slowly sliding down to similarly still seas, while soothing stars slowly filled the starkly empty space in another black night.

 

[GrieveWriter]

Somewhere over the Wastelands of the Dry Frontier...





A single airship floated over a deep ravine which had dried up ages ago, leaving nothing but a deep gash in the sandy expanse. Manned by a few dozen Yaruks, this ship's owner towered over the other already large humanoid creatures.


The Grand Prosecutor, also known as Bagork Klegurk, stood with a single massive boot pressed onto the Airship's guard rail. The Massive hunk of metal creaked a bit under his weight but held true.


In one hand he gripped his war Cleaver, the hunk of metal tapping idly against the airship's deck as he used his other hand to cover his eyes from the sun so he could more easily scan the dry ravine. On his back was strapped a cannon, pre-loaded for this particular hunt.


"How long, runt?" He grunted to the only small Yaruk on the ship, who frantically looked over a series of sketches clutched within his claws


"Not long," replied the smaller Yaruk "Sketch says we on right path."


The Grand Prosecutor grumbled impatiently before taking his foot off the guardrail and beginning to pace on the airship as it moved. Per his instructions, the Yaruks under his emply were constantly checking the cannons, to reduce the chance of any malfunctions for when they spotted his prey. That, however, would sem to be put on hold for the time being. And as time drew on and they still found no sign of the target, Bagork began showing doubt. He could just here the pompous tone of Eldan mocking him for wasting his time on this venture, and despite knowing that he could probably easily mock whatever waste of time "Knowledge collection" the High Scholar had gone on, the idea of letting the Smaller Yaruk have any form of leverage on him made his blood boil something fier-


"Dreadmourn Spotted!" Came the bellow of another Yaruk, snapping the Grand Prosecutor from his angry thoughts.


As his initial look of surprised formed into a large tooth-filled grin, Bagork quickly lumbered over to the guardrail once more. Yes... there it was.


In the Ravine below a large figure moved, leaping from one side of the ravine to the next. It hade four massive arms which it used to grip the side of the ravine as it moved, at the center was a large insect-oid body with dozens of small legs which dangled as the arms took up the mantle of transportation. And its head was large, fleshy and bulbous, its eyes were probably buried in that heap of flesh near the front but Bagork gave no care.


The Dreadmourn, while not as powerful as a Crawler, was definitely more maneuverable. With its arms enabling it to scale sheer cliffs with ease and its many insect legs being able to carry its large body for miles without end. The only trick with hunting this large form of prey was keeping up with it, which was exactly what the Grand Prosecutor planned on doing.


"Follow it now!" he roared to the crew, who immediately manned their stations as Bagork's hunting Airship began giving chase to the large beast.


A sliver of flesh pealed open on the Dreadmourn's back as it noticed the sound of the approaching airship, and with a massive screech it began picking up the pace as well.


Already, as the cannons were manned and prepared to fire, the Grand Prosecutor could feel the adrenaline doing wonderful things to his body. Oh the putdowns he would have ready to tell that puny High Scholar when he was done would be glorious.


Because honestly, what kind of adventure could one expect from something as simple as "Knowledge Collection?"


Somewhere deep under the Dry Frontier...


Eldan kept his staff clenched in his claws as he narrowed his eyes, his feet were resting upon a thin rock protrusion which dangled over an unimaginable fall. With small rays of light coming into the caves ruins from who knows where, the High Scholar leaped to the next protrusion he could see. Steadying himself, he studied his surroundings for what must have been the seventeenth time.


He was in what was once a burial ground for the Orcs of old, which had been destroyed in the great flood and reused by on of the more recent Archmages. This particular Archmage had, in grand devotion to his studies, been buried with his beloved personal journal. While Eldan could respect a Yaruk's love for his craft, taking information that could be useful to the hive for himself simply could not stand.


And so he traversed the underground ruins, leaping between broken walkways, scaling hanging platforms or even shimmying across large pits.


Finally he came across a set of large stone doors, beyond them was a room that had held up surprisingly well over time. The High Scholar assumed this room was one of the recent additions by the Archmage who had used these ruins. Stretching from the entranceway was a single long walkway that led to another set of doors on the other side. There was no floor beneath the walkway, instead having another massive pit that the room seemed to have been built over.


Eldan did not enter, instead sniffing the air several times. As expected, an element that conflicted with the other scents of these ruins. Stepping away from the doors, Eldan acquired a rock which he proceeded to throw inside.


As expected, a segment of the walkway depressed under the rocks weight, and suddenly large swinging blades descended from the sides of the room before slicing through the air above the walkway. Rather than stop, as he expected, the blades came down once again, repeating over and over.


Sighing, the High Scholar held his staff along his front before waiting. And as the first blade passed he quickly stepped past its range. He relaxed a bit before going still and hopping through the next one. And so with patience and quick footwork, the High Scholar began carefully making his way through the swinging blades.


The Grand Prosecutor...


"There! Fire!!!"


Another array of cannon blasts lit up the front of the Grand Prosecutor's airship, and as the cannonballs splayed through the air the massive eye on the back of the Dreadmourn's head closed. Over the course of the last seven minutes they'd been battering their way through the Dreadmourn's armor, several well placed hits should provide a defensive weakening. But this was not without risk, for every so often one of the DreadMourn's arms would pull a clump of sandstone out of the edge of the raving and toss it back towards them. Even though he knew his vessel would endure the attacks effortlessly, they would slow them down just enough for the Creature to make an escape. He had waited far too long to let it out of his sights now.


"Opening!"


His smile grew even larger as one of his crew pointed out a dent the most recent salvo of cannonballs had created in the beast's massive eyelid. It roared violently as it found itself unable to close it properly, which was far more than Bagork needed.


Placing his foot back upon the guardrail, the Grand Prosecutor motioned for the pilots to steer closer. Once at a decent range the massive Yaruk leaped directly off of his Airship.


He careened through the sky with a war cry that drew the DreadMourn's attention, and as it turned its head to look with its undamaged eye it felt as if a massive boulder had just slapped it upside the head. The Beast lost its grip for a moment and tumbled deeper into the ravine before frantically grabbing hold of the edges and moving again.


Claw digging into the side of the beast's head, The Grand Prosecutor began climbing his way up using his cleaver and free claw to scale the beast.


Once he got atop its head, the wind grazing upon his exposed face, he readied himself to make for the wounded eye when a more high pitched screech drew his attention. Turning, he watched as dozens of smaller creatures scurried along the walls of the ravine above him and the Dreadmourn, undomesticated Peons.


One of the smaller beasts leaped off the wall towards him, prompting Bagork to meet it halfway with a wide swing of his War cleaver. And as the two halves of the body fell away, another leaped upon his back and began thrashing wildly. Reaching back with a grunt of effort, Bagork plucked the Peon off his back before slinging it into the wall of the ravine before it tumbled down.


As the Cannon crews on his airship began targeting the smaller beasts, The Grand Prosecutor raised his War Cleaver as more leaped towards him from the ravine's walls.


The High Scholar...


Weaving his way through the last two swinging blades, Eldan finally relaxed and let his staff tap against the walkway. He stretched his neck before approaching the doorway a the end of the walkway only to leap back as to swords swung through it. The High Scholar slid backwards, keeping mind of the still swinging blades behind him as he sighed at the sight before him.


Two full sets of Yaruk Armor wielding Irodum greatswords, glowing with the telltale signs of enchantments.


Eldan sighed before adopting a combat stance as the first Armor Guardian swung its sword down towards him. Stepping back just a bit, the small Yaruk leaped onto the Enchanted Armor's arm before running along it and leaping of its shoulder. Feet first, Eldan impacted with the Armor Guardian behind it, sending it stumbling back a few feet before it regained its footing.


With some distance gained, Eldan turned back to the first Armor Guardian, noticing for the first time that it wielded its sword in its left hand while the other wielded it in its right. Perhaps they were decorations on either side of the door?


Considering it would have to wait, as Lefty charged towards the High Scholar shoulder first, prompting the Yaruk to roll to the side of it. Now hugging the edge of the walkway, Eldan watched as Righty dove past Lefty with its Sword coming down in a violent arc. Seeing no other option, Eldan once more leaped down the walkway just as a swinging blade came down. Instead of landing on his feet, he gripped his staff as it touched the ground and used his elevated position to grab hold of the chain which the blade swung upon. He steadied himself on the swinging chain as it carried him to one side of the room, minding the black pit which lay beneath the walkway.


As he came back, Lefty stood and readied his blade. Just as it jabbed towards the chain in an attempt to cut the High Scholar, Eldan swung to the other side of the chain as it came down and leaped over Righty before letting go of his staff and pressing a finger to his head.


As Righty turned to continue its assault, Eldan's staff quickly shot forward and lodged itself in between the metal plating of its chest piece. Without a Yaruk body inside, the Armor Guardian barely noticed it until Eldan strode towards him with his fingers still placed against his forehead. The Staff quickly jerked the Armor Guardian backwards several feet before dislodging and returning to Eldan's hand.


Righty was about to charge once more when a swinging blade swung in front of it, giving it pause. With it preoccupied, Eldan focused his attention on Lefty, who gripped the handle of its sword in both hands before swinging. The blade collided with Eldan's staff loudly, which hovered in the air in front of the High Scholar who looked between the two Armor Guardians as the staff began parrying Lefty's attacks. Seeing an opening as Lefty took several steps back, Eldan's staff stopped in mid air just as the High Scholar leaped onto it as Righty finally got past the swinging blades.


As Eldan leapt from the staff towards Leftie, Righty brought its sword through the air where he was just as his staff began following him. Leftie writhed as the High Scholar clung to its large frame and crawled around to his back right before Righty's blade buried itself in Lefty's chest piece. Blade wedged in its companion, Righty looked up just as Eldan crawled over Lefty's head and stuffed his hand into Righty's open faceplate. Before the enchanted Armor could begin thrashing, Eldan tore out the pulsing gem which had been attached to the inside.


At once, Righty fell apart and clattered to the ground in a pile of Yarukan metals. With one Armor Guardian taken down, Eldan prepared to reach inside Lefty's Faceplate as well when the Enchanted Armor's gauntlet grabbed hold of his arm and slung the High Scholar away. He didn't go very far, his hovering Staff providing a perfect handhold with which to steady himself as Lefty pulled Righty's sword from its chest.


Crouching, Lefty charged towards the High scholar using the edges of the two blades to cut off any attempts at charging by.


Eldan sailed backwards on his staff, dodging the swinging blades once more as Lefty followed him. Disembarking from his staff and grabbing hold of it as his feet touched the ground, Eldan's eyes looked over the swinging blades and Lefty as the Enchanted Armor drew near. With a slight nod of realization, Eldan used one hand to go for a pouch strapped to his waist.


Drawing a single little glass bottle, Eldan tossed it to the ground. The liquid within spread farther than one would've anticipated considering the size. Lefty, too focused on its target at the time, didn't notice the liquid until it was too late. As it feet gave out underneath it, Eldan leaped over Lefty as it slid under him into the range of one of the swinging blades.


The Force of the blade colliding with it sent Lefty off the side of the Walkway and into the pit below with both swords spiraling down after it.


The High Scholar gave a breath of relief before turning towards the doorway they'd been defending.


The Grand Prosecutor...


As his fist connected with another Peon, Bagork tried once more to make his way towards the eye of the Dreadmourn. These Peons had been a consistent irritation for some time now, leaping down at him every time he had prepared to scale the Dreadmourn. It wasn't that they were hard to beat back, but without using both hands to climb The Grand Prosecutor risked being dragged off the creature by his own weight.


The Dreadmourn for the most part had continued crawling through the ravine using its massive arms, with Bagork's hunting crew busy trying to thin the number of Peons it had been able to steady its climbing.


The Grand Prosecutor 's War Cleaver collided with another Peon as it dived, hearing the panting screeches of one behind him the Grand Prosecutor's free hand swung backwards on instinct. Catching the creature, Bagork wasted no time in throwing it off the Dreadmourn into the depths of the ravine before turning to two more which scampered towards him.


This was going nowhere, and with a grunt the Grand Prosecutor decided to take a risk. Sheathing his War Cleaver, Bagork pulled the cannon from its strap on his back before kicking one of the Peons back. Though wounded, the creature was back on its feet in the time it had taken the Grand Prosecutor to leap from the top of the Dreadmourn's head. As he fell past the back of the beast's head, he aimed the cannon towards the broken section of its armored eyelid. And as its eye centered on him from within the damaged carapace-


-he fired a cannonball into it.


The High Scholar...


There it was, the resting place of Archmage Gerun. In the center of the room was a metal casket on a slightly raised platform. Eldan moved slowly, wary of the ancient Archmage's potential traps.


Surprisingly he made it to the casket without obstruction, but opened it with his staff out of caution anyway. As the top fell away, Eldan frowned at the deceptively simple display. Before him lied the unmistakable skeleton of a small Yaruk, with his hands folded over his chest. Clutched in his right was a tome which covered the left hand.


Steadily, he reached forward and grabbed hold of the tome. And as it was pulled away, it revealed that the skeleton's left hand was curled into a middle finger.


Eldan's eye twitched as the cave began rumbling hazardously, was there juust something about magic that turned all of their Archmages into conniving annoyances?


With the Tome tucked under one arm, Eldan turned and ran from the burial room as the ceiling began caving in behind him.


The Grand Prosecutor...


Bagork pulled himself from a pile of rubble, grunting and brushing sand from his attire as he stood. Behind him lay the massive carcass of the Dreadmourn which had fallen as soon as the cannon had pierced through its head. Bagork stood and began laughing in pride, despite an ache in his shoulder where he had landed after the Dreadmourn had fallen into the ravine.


This laugh was short lived, however, as his hunting instincts brought to light something he should've noticed immediately. He could see his Hunting ship descending towards him, he could see the bodies of several Peons who had fallen with him, but where were the rest of them?


They would've pounced the moment he had fallen, Peons were weak but they knew how to take advantage of downed opponents. They hadn't backed down when his crew had fired at them, so something else must have made them run.


The answer to this question lumbered up behind the Grand Prosecutor, who turned around at the loud sound of stomping feet. A young Ulgor stared down at the oversized Yaruk, drool leaking from its maw at the sight of a dead Dreadmourn. It was much smaller than the full-sized ones which often wandered the Dry Frontier, but it still outclassed the Grand Prosecutor in sheer size.


"Two for one." Bagork said as he unsheathed his war cleaver and pointed it at the Ulgor, "My winnings shall be grand!"


Seeing Bagork's actions as a challenge, the Ulgor crouched before swinging both of its tree sized arms at the Yaruk. Backing up, Bagork dived under one of the swings and shoulder-charged the Ulgor, despite being of superior size the Grand Prosecutor's weight forced the beast back a bit as Bagork began cutting at it with his Cleaver. He only got in several slashes before the Ulgor swiped him off his feet with another swing of its arm. The Grand Prosecutor impacted heavily with the Dreadmourn's body, but recovered as the Ulgor lumbered towards him. Scrambling up the Dreadmourn's body, Bagork gained a height advantage on the Ulgor as it began climbing after him. Bagork crouched and leaped onto the Ulgor, using his weight to carry the both of them to the ground.


"Assistance!" came a voice from above as Bagork's hunting Airship finally settled into a hover just out of the Ulgor's reach. The crew began prepping the cannons as they watched the Ulgor swinging its arms and bash against the ground as Bagork tried to wrestle the being into submission.


"No!" Bagork roared to them "Bring me a Cannon, this is mine!"


The Yaruk Crew looked at each other for a while before several shrugged and began pushing one of the loaded Cannons off the Airship. The cannon collided with the ground near the Yaruk on Beast brawl, Bagork immediately leaped from the thrashing Giant as he lunged for the cannon. The Ulgor gave pursuit, and after pulling the cannon free from its Stationary set up he reared back and tossed the War Cleaver at the Ulgor.


His aim held true, and the Ulgor stumbled as the War Cleaver, found a new home in its leg. And as the Ulgor stumbled forward face-first, Bagork brought up the Cannon to greet it.


The High Scholar...


Eldan was miffed, his grumbles of annoyance audible as he trudged through the sand. Some ways behind him were the remains of the rocky outcropping which had once led to Archmage Gerun's tomb, now they continued sinking into the sand until they were completely overtaken and vanished into the desert. The High Scholar's annoyance would fade, however, as his objective stayed firmly tucked under one arm as he walked towards his airship which was grounded a ways off from the sinking ruins.


At his approach, several Yaruks hopped off the grounded Airship and ran to meet him halfway.


"Eldan! Venture went good?" asked one of them as the High Scholar nodded to them in greeting


"As well as it could've gone considering the opposition." Eldan said passively


"Should have taken us!" said another Yaruk with a tone of disappointment


"You most likely would've gotten in my way, it wasn't really the type of place where large groups would've been beneficial. So tell me, how have you kept yourselves occupied in my absence."


At that the Yaruks began giving each other akward glances that did not poass the High Scholar's notice.


"Stowaway!" barked one of them "Came out when you leave us!"


Eldan quirked an eye at this, "What kind of stow-"


"Eldan!"


At thesound of that voice, Eldan immediately hoped he had finally gone senile with old age and that he could no longer trust his senses. This thought only increased as he spotted another Small Yaruk hop off the Airship.


Pushing down his returning sense of annoyance, Eldan opted to give the approaching figure one of his patented looks of displeasure.


"Feasili," Eldan said with a deep grimace as the Archmage approached.

 

[general ostruppen]

In the heart of Rome the people talk of the rumors of orks rebelling in the southern island that had been under Runom supremacy for several century's. Rebellion was not that uncommon when expanding to foreign territories, but the mention of orks caused anxiety and were more terrifying then simple barbarians. In the Emperors court room the senators argue back and forth in figuring out the whereabouts of the rebel ork leader and what action to take. One middle aged senator rises up and yells over to silence the bickering. "ENOUGH! THE CITY OF ANDRELLEN IS LOST AND OUR SOUTHERN ALLIES HAVE ABANDON US." The room was a long , narrow, and made of only marble. With five long rows on both sides, enough to fit around 260 people on either side. Including the flag of there great Empire.Straight ahead of the hallway laid a large map on the wall that showed the small continent to the west and south and the Runom continent. The senator walks down from his row and headed straight to the large map, looking to the southern continent. "What do our sources indicate the movement of the rebel forces?" He yelled out. One senator in his early sixties rose from his seat, "My spies have reported that they intend to sail by ocean and attack the nearby city ports, they have already started construction on boats and-" Suddenly senators started to lash out at his claims. "THOSE IDIOTS CANT EVEN BUILD SIMPLE RAFTS! DO YOU EXPECT THOSE SAVAGES TO HAVE ANY INTELLIGENCE! I believe that they are not going to the sea personally, but they are sending hired spies to infiltrate and cause another rebellion in the coastal city of Dregner, they will march there army along the road towards the city and will be greeted by even more rebels." As the argument and claims continue on, the entrance door suddenly bursted open which caught everyone's attention. The Emperor Julius fortuna walked until he was at the center of the room. "They will not sail by sea, nor will they March along the coast.....The villagers of the mountain have reported a large army is moving through the mountain passes." The senators were shocked and in disbelief, going through the mountains and especially when winter was nearing would be suicide. "That's impossible my Emperor, they would lose most of there forces to attrition itself. It's probably just a ruse to Lear us In a different direction." Julius shook his head in disagreement, "The mountains are nothing but a challenge to these orks. They don't care if they lose a couple hundred warriors as long as they make it closer to the capital of that region. I have already sent word to the first legion and two auxilary armies to bring down this rebellion....they will be dealt with by the sword and no mercy will be shown."


_____________________________________________________________


In the small southern island continent, tiberious and the first legion army had recently landed and linked up with the 3rd and 7th Auxilary armies. The first legion had sailed for 2 months and had been given strict orders by the emperor himself to crush any signs of rebellion and then to proceed conquering the rest of the continent.They Marched under a windy day, a good day to fight. The soldiers were eager to pitch themselves into a fight and couldn't wait for the victories to come. Tiberious and his general however were not vey enthusiastic on fighting an enemy that relied on brute strength, these savages were born for war. Unlike the barbarians in the Runom continent, these orks had no sense of peace. Fighting these savages will not be an easy task, but as long as they had there bearer carrying the golden eagle. Nothing could stand in there way.

​

 

[Idea]

(heh, looks like I`m a bit late. If there are any inconsistencies with my post that I missed, please tell me. Thank you.)


The clouds opened just for a bit, letting the sky core shine. The etherium shined as it reflected the light over and over again, each time just a tad less shiny. The wind kept blowing though, and it was soon to make the clouds cover the sky core again. Speaker Corus took some steps ahead, and spoke at last, when this happens.


“The sky core can shine and disappear again. We had peace once, and it was broken for a few moments. The result? We were forced out. The unknown is like the sky core. It WILL appear again.” He told the fellow speakers.


“What..do?” A primal core`s speaker inquired. They were primitive beings, for speakers. It was amazing how they could speak at all. Then again, they were an imitation of this “flesh creatures” that had digged too deep and reached the main core.


“We have insufficient data. Our chances of military victory have a 43.785% margin of error.” The speaker of another core, Merin, claimed.


“True, but the chances of diplomatic alliances are beneath 28%.” Tarc, the speaker for a recently formed core, refuted. There was quite a bit to consider. We had better chances of military victory, but military victory would take costs that I was unsure we could afford. Afterall, there was the possibility of multiple foes already working together. I turned to Gastter, one of our top GoldFlesh mages.


“Gasster, what are our chances of buying them over?”


The mage looked pensative for a bit.


“High. They seemed greedy, if they really came all the way here, risking so much for a few gems and some metals.” He responded.


“I meant the odds. Amount. Percentage.”


“I`m sorry, main speaker, but I am not able to calculate such things the way you etherium can. I am Goldflesh afterall.”


“Makes me wonder why we keep these Goldflesh…” Tarc began.


“SILENCE!” Corus yelled. This was not the time for inner fighting. Otherwise, he would not have summoned the primal core`s speakers as well. This late movement against Goldflesh had little foundation, but since the possibility of invading strangers began, strangers that seemingly could “feel” the way Goldflesh did, the possibility had rosen in popularity among the speakers. But today was a day for decisions, and not against each other. “I will take his word. If the chances are… “high”, then we should be able to accomplish a form of diplomacy by having solid trade and commercial routes. We will continue the conversion of nearby land into etherium. If we find strangers, let us seek to appeal to their greed. Are the monsters in check?”


“Almost…” Another primal speaker answered.


“Around 79% of all water monsters have been cataloged, main speaker. Both etherium and Goldflesh kins.” Gtuin confirmed.


“What about land ones?” Corun asked.


“97.5%” Munuin replied. Both Gtuin and Menuin originated from a core that had overloaded, but managed to split before so, making two smaller salvaged cores. Good thing, since the original was a primal one and the other two weren`t.


“How many under control? How many directed?”


“20% and 57% respectively.” Munuin answered.


“0 and 14% respectively.” Gtuin added.


Corun sat down. The taming of the monsters wasn`t going according to predictions. If the strangers were that stubborn, the Silverlands might have a problem. Corun turned to the ore, behind him.


It was a magnificent sight. The large exterior walls largely covered the nucleus inside, yet it´s heat could reach all of them even outside. Corun looked at his core replicas each a cheap imitation of the majesty of the structure that gave him life and to many others. More, this was the largest one, the main core. They all had gotten used to it by now, but the entire land was shaking from the nucleus`s work alone. Every inch of their body. And their etherium-covered land was feeding of the energy it produced. What wonderful sight, wonderful power. It had to be preserved. No…It had to be shared. Everywhere. The world, covered in metal. No, that`d be impossible. The odds of such a campaign succeeding were below 5%. Maybe half the world? Assuming they survived their encounters with strangers, the odds were still around 43%. Maybe a third of the wolrd? Yes, that seemed more workable. 54%, assuming they survived the encounters with the strangers.


“How is the research on airlings going?”


“Not good. Results remain.” Rolk muttered.


“Cut research with Goldflesh and focus on etherium research. We need every soldier we can, and goldflesh can`t be returned so easily.” Corun ordered. “Tarc, you will join Herx in the production of wealth. Keep yourself informed with our scouts to learn the contents of the stranger`s currency. Merin, you will focus entirely on the scouts, and should you find any strangers, analize their political structure as far as possible. Gasster, you will train our mages. The research cuts should give you some additional recruits. Primal cores will aid in the taming of monsters. That is all. Objections?”


No one spoke. It had been like that since my creator core had been recognized indisputably as the main core. I got the most information, therefore I made the better decisions. I signaled that this assembly was dismissed and decided to go admire our architecture. One of the few forms of beauty. To watch every pillar, it was like feeling the flows of those lines, the flowing energy. I looked at a nearby etherium pool. I reached out with my hand and gave it some extra energy. Immediately, a sword began emerging from the pool, formed by the very etherium that wavered like water in front of me. I picked up the sword, gazing into the very horizon. To think out there, there was a whole world we had never seen. We had been trapped in the ground for long, and we were fine that way, but now there was certain sense of…release. Of a purpose beyond living. Still, we would need allies. Two, no…three allies, at least.

 

[High Moon]

Serveral Horse-Man riding towards the Khans Camp,carrying the Banners of his border chiefs could seen from where Khan's Yurt was set-up,Khan looked to them,thinking about why his Clansman would come to his presence during a peacefull and prosperious time as this,other than a few skirmishes bettwen his vassals there was little to no problem,but his thoughts were intrupted when the Horse-man had arrived just near him.''Greetings to you Great Khan Kilij Ilda,I Chief Heydar and my Allies request your help'' Said the Clan-Chief,The Khan looked at him and asked ''What may you and your allies need Bey Heydar?'' with a firm tone.Heydar Bey looked to the Kan and answered ''The Runomians have violated our borders my liege!,they have entered the Holy-steppes,which is our land! given to us by Father-Mountain!'' He declared.The Khan eyed him suspiciously,''I am sure your and your Allied Tribes have enough Warrior to drive back the Runomian Peasants and guards,and I doubt you have just rode all the way here to my camp,to just ask for permission,A envoy would have been enough for that.'',the Clan-Chief nodded ''Yes Great Khan.I also came here to ask for you to Ride with us aganist the Runomian dogs! they have done enough! and they even recruit our young into their ranks! we shall Show those western Barbarians that WE! OWN! THESE! LANDS!'' The Khan was a bit irritated by the Chief's tone,but the others had started the cheer him.He had to think fast,The Runomians were their Psuedo-Allies,and a war with them was not benefictical...but refusing now would mean losing respect of these people.so he said ''Alright Bey Haydar,I and my Warriors shall help your tribe drive out the Runomians.We shall all Western Tribes to ride with us,maybe when they see the size of our armies they will retreat,and shall they not they will face our might!''The Horse-Man Cheered the Khan,''a Wise decesion my Khan!'' said the Clan-Chief.''The Khan shouted ''EVERY ONE GET READY! WE ARE MOVING TO BORDER REGION!'' and with that he went into his Yurt,which had a basic cart system,to be pulled by cattles.


After sending envoys to other western tribes and clans which made the total of almost 15.000 Men and Women including children to gather in Bey Heydar's Territory,they had quicly rided to there,as the sun was setting The Khan could see that rest of the Tribes had already came and started their camps,He saw Warriors Chating,kids training,women cooking,shamans doing their rituals and the Mehteran Bands cleaning their Insturiments.it looked like his people was already ready for a full out war.when they saw him they started to cheer for him,and he hailed them,and when he came to center of the camp,all the people looking at him he said ''MY PEOPLE! WE HAVE GATHERED HERE TO PROTECT OUR LANDS FROM THE FOREIGNERS WHO HAS VIOLATED THEM! AND I TRUST YOU TO FIGHT FOR YOUR HOMELAND TO PROTECT IT WITH ALL YOU'VE GOT! MAY FATHER-MOUNTAIN GUIDE ALL OF US!'',as the Tribals cheered he went back into his Yurt,silently praying that the Runomians would retreat,as he heard The Mehteran Band start to play their March and Smell The Shamans burning great fires.

 

[GrieveWriter]

Somewhere in the skies above the Dry Frontier...


A large fortress floated through the slightly windy air, around it sailed several airships. Several of the Yarukan Hive's Banners blew in the wind, including w=one which hung above the balcony where The Red Patriarch currently stood. From his position, the Patriarch could view past the small city that was his stronghold and towards the expansive desert below. He watched as small clouds of sand grew in the wind only to silently fall several moments later. With this, the dunes of the Dry Frontier would change shape and appearance consistently every month.


The Red Patriarch stared down at the desert, then to the Yaruks currently moving about his stronghold. He watched them carry lumber and carts of stone or metal. Watched several Foremen order for different placements of tables or cannons which lined the walls of his stronghold.


He stared at this all with a blank expression, as he had every day for the past several decades. This body of his had not often left from his ever growing stronghold, he had always controlled the body of other Hive members whenever he needed to take care of business outside of the Stronghold. In technical terms, one could say he hadn't left his stronghold in years. Not that he had ever needed to in the first place, he knew that putting himself in risky situations like the Grand Prosecutor did would severely weaken the Hive.


Just as he thought that, a presence at his sight drew his attention to his Wife. Staring at him with the same unblinking eyes that all Yaruk Females were renown for, she stood silently as she watched him. He had always hated how much emotion his Mate could convey in her blank stares, and he confirmed this annoyance by grumbling. Stepping away from the guard rail, the Red Patriarch walked past his wife as he made his way towards his throne. Still staring, his wife narrowed her eyes a bit before stomping after him.


His throne was crimson, deep crimson which reflected light from several windows onto the floor. And as he sat upon it, his wife standing dutifully at his side, he continued pondering in silence. It wasn't as if here were ever bored, even as he thought this he was controlling several members of the Hive at once. Going about their duties as well as training his own body and mind constantly kept him busy. It wasn't like-


"Your Greatness"


A Scholar in several red robes entered, bowing slightly to the Patriarch and his mate "The High Scholar has sent a messenger baring the Tome of Gerun, it is currently being analyzed by as we speak."


Good news as it was, the Red Patriarch noticed something "He didn't bring it himself?"


"No your magnificence, an attached note stated the Archmage had kept him to preoccupied to deliver it on his own."


The Red Patriarch frowned "Preoccupied with what?"


To the East of the Dry Frontier... The Prizalf Woodlands


An airship hovered over the expanse of forest, massive trees, rivers and wildlife as far as the eye can see. In the distance sat a fortress of rock and metal which looked quite out of place amongst all the greenery which surrounded it. Aboard the Airship, Eldan sat on the edge with his staff placed in his lap. In his hands were a journal he dabbled in as he looked over the woodlands. The contrast between this beauty and the Dry Frontier was obvious, the idea that this was what his homeland had looked like so long ago before the Great Flood was nearly incomprehensible. It didn't matter how many times he came to the Prizalf, the same sense of disbelief persisted.


And then, the moment was ruined.


"Come now, Ellie!" came the overly-cheerful voice of the Archmage as he hovered into Eldan's sight, successfully obscuring his view "We must experience te sheer amount of Nature that seeps from this land like blood from an open wound!"


Eldan sighed as he gripped his staff in preparation, and like clockwork Feasili flew behind him and shoved the High Scholar off the ship's side.


Sailing towards the ground, journal in one hand and staff in the other, Eldan sighed as he passed by several passing birds. Swinging his legs onto his staff, Eldan slowed to a halt before his staff began flying instead of falling. He sat on his staff as it traveled, and prepared to open his journal once more when the top of a tree literally grew several stories in height in front of him. He crashed into the tree, his staff getting lodged in the branches along with him as he groaned an looked over to see a smiling Feasili grasping one of the tree's branches with a glowing hand.


Once he had captured Eldan, Feasili released his grasp on the tree and it immediately stopped growing.


"No no, Ellie!" Feasili tutted as he kneeled before the High Scholar, who began disentangling himself with the branches "You mustn't distance yourself away from this Grand Green!"


He tore a handful of leaves from the tree and drizzled them through the air, letting them flutter down upon Eldan "You must breathe in this nature! Let it fester in your soul like a painful remedy!"


At a snap of the Archmage's fingers, ethereal swords materialized in the air before cutting Eldan loose from the branches. Unfortunately, the moment he was loose he began to plummet from the tree.


Eldan instinctively reached for his staff, and as the metallic pole arm sailed towards him he noticed Feasili sliding down the side of the tree using his feet.


Several more finger snaps and suddenly Feasili wasn't sliding alone. Forest Nymphs and tree spirits began following him down the tree's trunk, and as Eldan grabbed hold of the staff and steadied himself in the air once more, he watched the Archmage and the tree spirits collide with the ground in a massive burst of forest magic.


In the distance, another Yaruk who stood upon a thick tree branch saw the sudden expulsion of magic, and he watched as the forest creatures seemed to flock towards it. Giving a deep hum in thought, the Yaruk leaped from the tree and followed.


Eldan's staff hovered to a stop above the ground, the High Scholar disembarked from the staff just in time to catch sight of Feasili floating by casually on a cloud of butterflies. The Archmage lazily waved at Eldan as the butterfly cloud carried him off into the trees. Eldan rolled his eyes before following, eventually finding the Archmage lying in a field of flowers.


"You should not be so casually wasting your time," Eldan stated as he came to a stop near the Archmage "One with your magical talents could provide significant boons to the hive if you actually helped the other mages in their studies."


"Oh Ellie, there's only so many beings I can blow up before it starts getting boring." Feasili said as he waved a finger through the air "Besides, I'm conducting my own studies."


With another wave of his hand, the field of flowers changed into an assortment of colorful birds which took flight almost immediately.


Eldan closed his eyes and brushed a rainbow of feathers from his clothing, when he opened his eyes he found another familiar Yaruk approaching from the nearby trees.


"Delsar, I se you still wander these woods living like a hermit away from the expansion." Eldan stated as he kept an eye on the Archmage, who laughed cheekily


"And I see you also keep distance from the splendor of the woodlands." Delsar said before bowing respectively to the other two Yaruks "One day you must place down your implements of study, and feel the trees not as a subject, but as new friend which we must treasure."


Eldan rolled his eyes for what must have been the eighteenth time in the last hour, the Beast Master's natural love for wild life had culminated in his training taking place almost exclusively in the Prizalf. His speech craft had grown, but in... unexpected ways.


"Delsy!" Feasili said from his position "Still as green-loving as ever I see."


Delsar nodded in the Archmage's direction before holding out his arms, almost immediately the rainbow of birds returned. The many creatures settled upon Delsar's body in an almost uncanny display of trust.


"Perhaps if you helped train more Beast Tamers," Eldan offered "you'd be able to convince more Yaruks to join you on this regime you've set up for yourself."


"They must come on their own," Delsar stated as the birds clinging to him poofed back into a settling cloud of flower petals "their appreciation for the great Green will draw them to it."


Eldan and Feasili shared a look before the Archmage chuckled "You see, Ellie? This grub is just a goldmine for one-liners."


Eldan refused to shake his head in disappointment, instead opting to watch as Feasili teleported over to another tree branch.


"Come my fellow merry folk!" Feasili said with raised arms "A grand adventure in the Prizalf Woodlands seems to be in order!"


"Oh, I know of some glorious waterways we may venture to," said Delsar "The tree spirits cater to the whims of the plant life there, showering the earthly creations in beauty."


"That's the spirit, Delsy!" Feasili cackled "lead the way!"


Eldan watched as Delsar began trudging through the greenery, Feasili did a small dance upon the tree branch before floating off of it and following.


Eldan sighed before turning back to look at his perfectly functional Airship the two of them seemed to forget about, before waving it to follow and quickly hopping upon his staff. As the staff began hovering off the ground, Eldan briefly wondered why The Grand Prosecutor never had t put up with this kind of stuff.


The Grand Prosecutor...


"Okay runts!" Bagork bellowed out to his Crew, who were assembled outside of his grounded airship "We've fallen two mighty beasts this day, and scores of Peons as a bonus!"


The assembled Yaruks began cheering and grunting in celebration.


"However!" Bagork interrupted them before placing a foot upon the body of the Ulgor "I still do not believe we have fully finished this hunt!"


The crew's cheers turned into grunts of confusion as the Grand Prosecutor unsheathed his War Cleaver "I will not be satisfied until the entire body of the day's prize is devoured!"


And the silence which followed left nothing but the sound of slightly windy desert to serve as the soundtrack for this moment.


"What?"


"Correct! The Dreadmourn's massive body shall be devoured before the hunt ends!" Bagork roared to the growing looks of horror from the crowd "And every single one of you shall aid me in this task!"


"We never make it! Beast far too big!"


"Then you should start now before you lose your appetite." Bagork stated before turning to the massive carcass of the Dreadmourn "Let this feast begin!"


And as his crew looked on with alternating looks of disbelief, horror, and regret...


... he began carving the first massive slice.

 

[Anaxial]

As night began to envelope the world, Dathan couldn't help but turn his head to the sky and smile. The world swallowed by the Abyss and their darkest intents could be seen to fruition. The old sea crusted Caravel slowed as the Island came into view, a small thing dotted with a small forest in the center; perfect for concealing the cowering Hybrids and their so-called "saviors". Dathan Ordered the ship to be dashed against the rocks around the Island, the drummers communicating the order to the Mollusks hidden beneath the dark waters below. The Deep Ones beneath the ship using their tentacles to lift the ship slightly and lay it gently against the rocks it's hull remained intact and due to it's weathered appearance it seemed as if it had been crashed here for some time.


Dathan armed himself with a rusted steel cutlass and slid the blade into it's black leather scabbard on his side, the strap hung diagonally on his body. Dathan had two pistols strapped to his lower torso in holsters that also were strapped diagonally on his body. He donned a heavy leather buccaneer coat to conceal his weapons even placed a worn tattered tricorn on his scaled fishy head. He looked like a proper pirate now- the aesthetics of dressing up were a trait unique to view Deep Ones. Most prefered the minimalist route relying on their harden scales or chitinous armor to protect them, however most knew that an added layer of armor be it steel or a second skin couldn't hurt. When properly dressed he opened his cabin door and saw the crew of the standing in wait for him. He said nothing and instead immediately climbed to the poop deck so that his voice could be heard to all the crew.


"Thut utftang ha'ftu't uia' sh'aftftt! Thax saka ghhas ut uia't! Tha untuftantha ghuftft nus fta ru'gu'an ang shax ghuftft naas shau' guun as sha ang ur sha tghu'g! Fuftftugh na, rughs ha'g, kuftft nanx, ga'uia' shau' haa'st! Tha Su'an thaftftt shan su sha Daal!" he called out to the Pelagic crew, they raised their various weapons high in the air and let out a harrowing call from the Deep! Armed with Cutlass's, bucklers, pistols and bayonetted rifles, axes and crossbows, their equipment gnawed by the sea gave them a dreadful appearance. Among the ranks of the Pelagic Deep Ones, four massive Crustaceans stood, towering over their Pelagic brethren with ramshackle steel plates over their softer portions of their shells. One in peticular even wore entire human helmets over each of his stalk-eyes. They wielded massive anchors in their hands, the chains wrapped tightly around their crab claws.


With his crew's battle cry heard on the dark waters and dark skies of night, Dathan lept from the Poop Deck and dived down into the water below. His scales practically glowed as new life filled his body, a new breath filled his lungs, and a glimmer of visceral glee in his eye. The Deep One crew followed suit, leaping into the water and swimming towards the island at an astonishing speed.


As the Deep Ones emerged on the sandy beaches from beneath the dark waters they would strike fear into the bravest of men, their Eldritch profiles and weapons dripping with sea water as the crew marched behind Dathan. Their eyes dark an bodies hunched low to keep them hidden as the deranged crew shuffled into the forests, their eyes adjusting to the dark,the cool night reminded Dathan of the Abyss, terrible visions of emptiness that would dishearten a man filled the Eldritch Deep One with indefatigable purpose. On the backdrop of the dark woods, a large cabin could be seen, the source of these so-called 'saviors' for the Hybrids. Dathan stopped among the brush, his crew halting behind him, the towering Crustaceans however were impossible to keep quiet, the rattle of their chains, the boom of their steps, the denizens of the Cabin had long been awoke by such ruckus and could be seen through the window- arming themselves.


The sight of blades, the fury of battle, it was like Alcohol to the Deep Ones, against the abyssal dark it was far more intoxicating, Dathan and several other Pelagic Deep Ones scurried towards the Cabin's windows while a majority of the crew lumberly loudly towards the front of the cabin. When the noise was heard, the inhabitants of the cabin rushed from the front door and armed themselves, aiming bows and arming swords, facing the dark, eldritch crew of Kagg'xush. These humans seemed unnerved before the Deep Ones, singular unsettling tales told of their fabulous and unnamable power.





"We've rescued these poor creatures from you! You will not take them!" A woman shouted, her armor was gleaming, her swords and eyes sharpened and aimed at the damnable crew. The Deep Ones merely chuckled and spoke in their ancient and unnerving language, hushed whispers gliding from both sides. "You're outnumbered and outmatched! Turn back to your dark master and consol defeat! We are taking the rest to the Sanctuary!" she continued shouting at the unphased crew. Both sides seemed unwilling to attack one another, the humans were reluctant to attack the Deep Ones, their last assault on Kagg'xush resulted in many dead and many more being dragged into the dark swirling waters that surrounded the island. The Deep Ones merely waited for their mark.


Dathan and his small infiltration team jumped in through the windows now that most of the inhabitants had left the building, their weight causing the planks of the floor to creak under their webbed feet. Following closely, the Deep Ones burst into a room, revealing many cowering civilians, no weapons or courage were seen here only the fearful glaze over their eyes as they realized their fate was sealed. The Pelagic crew struck quickly, the flash of blades and a blast of clockwork guns were the only thing heard as their screams were drowned out in the carnage.


<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2015_11/57a8c57a2aebf_DeepOneHybrid.jpg.a34f389acfa51934774f28a041312d71.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="83664" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2015_11/57a8c57a2aebf_DeepOneHybrid.jpg.a34f389acfa51934774f28a041312d71.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p> Outside, the woman heard the gunshots and the screams, her determined look suddenly shifted to one of dread as she began barking orders and commanding the troop of freedom fighters to split up. But it was too late; just as the group split up- the Deep One crew charged the formation outside, a Crustacean's anchor was seen flying through the air and came crashing down, smashing several of the front linemen. Terrified scrams filled the air as the Deep One crew was swift to massacre the fighters outside, blades clashed, blood splattered, viscera and offal splashed against the cool ground as the Pelagic crew tore the humans apart with their bare hands should their weapons fail them.


Inside, the men burst into the room to already find Dathan and his infiltrators holding the Hybrids hostage, blades at their neck. The men desperately fired their weapons and charged the Pelagic marauders but their attacks were in vain, the blades of the Pelagic crew ran across the necks of the escaped Hybrids and their blood painted the floor. Dathan jumped through the air and tackled one of the intruders, his sharp teeth clamping down on the man's face, promptly tearing it off.


When the cabin and fields were splattered with blood, the Crustaceans used their prodigious strength and anchors to convert themselves to organic wrecking balls. Smashing the cabin to ruin and rubble, before letting flames consume the building and bodies. No Evidence aside from blood stains on the grass and trees, and the ash drifting through the wind. Though their unholy rampage was far from over, a Deep One approached Dathan, naked as the day it was born, the creature held a bloody sword in its hand, it's mouth a gaping abyss of teeth and tongues, it's gills visibly torn in the fray and leaked a thick black sludge.


"Tha hianant taug shax gha'a sakung sha 'ats su tanthsiaa'x. Thut ut nus sha Santhsiaa'x, us ut na'aftx a tsul aftung sha ghax." his voice rippled and bubbled from the pain and blood welling in his throat, but the Deep One seemed unphased. Dathan looked over at his comrade and scratched his scaled chin.


"I tiatlathsag at niathh, gha ghuftft thunsuniaa uia' taa'thh, nu'a unftang ur gha niats, sha'a ghuftft fta nu tuftatha ru' s'ausu't." Dathan said in response. This seemed to bring manic joy to the Deep Ones around him, the crew jumped in the air excitedly and licked the blood from their blades. With their job done, the Deep Ones searched the island for any stragglers, any supplies, eventually regrouping on the other side of the small island. There they saw it; the mainland, a massive span of land that seemed just as vast as the dark ocean. It made Dathan sick to see so much land. Regardless, he reached into his now blood soaked coat and withdrew his map, seeing nothing was noted beyond the small island, the Deep One captain dipped a claw into the blood on his coat and sketched out a rough outline of the mainland that they could see.


It seemed their job wasn't done yet.


Notes

Spoiler

The Deep One ship is a Caravel, a small, highly maneuverable sailing ship that was primarily used for exploration. The ship has three masts but the sails are torn and barely cling to the ship. It is actually powered by Mollusk Deep Ones that cling to the bottom.


The crew is 53 Deep Ones, Six Crustaceans, Five Mollusks (relatively large ones to carry the ship), and 42 Pelagic Deep Ones.


All of the crew aside from the Mollusks, the two Crustaceans, and four Pelagic Deep Ones are off the ship.

 

[General Deth Glitch]

As the deep, dark night fell, engulfing the land in a coat of black, his Lordship and his treasured friend and ally, made their way back to Vitraxia with a large boar strung between them. His Lordship silently chuckled to himself, thinking Any other man with a nation at his back would not dare been seen hunting alone, let alone taking his prey back himself! the comedy of this, for Averiax at least, was that his people loved and adored him, but he lived just like them, they saw day by day that he was little more than them. He remembers tales from the land of his Father, the Empire of Runom, some of their leaders they loved as though they were godlike and others they feared like they could kill legions with a mere thought. But all of them, if he remembered rightly, they thought of all of them as more then human, like their title gives them mystical powers. Then he thought about military defeat, this he decided to share with Mjorn, "Am I not correct in thinking a vast majorities of battles and wars were won or lost by the well being of their leaders?"


"Aye m'lord, if a King or revered general dies on the battlefield his men are likely to lose the will to fight, but at the same time, seeing 'im there, aside 'em makes them fight all the 'arder, even if they don't like the bugger!" he responded


Averiax thought about this for awhile and then continued the discussion "Would that be the same for my people? Since they know I am just one of them, a man of flesh and blood. I.. I mean they have seen me bleed, they saw me weep for the passing of my father and they oft' see the love I have for my dear mother, though I am nothing more than a shadow to her as her soul slowly leaves her body to wither behind" He was really beginning to wonder at this, since he felt he knew the answer and felt it was wrong. "What I mean is, they dont think of me like other kingdoms do..."


"Im afraid m'lord, that there's no way around it, your people may know you're only mortal but the respect you have garnered means that its exactly the same, its your.. I hate to say it... Dwarfishness... your very normal and understanding person that you are that makes it so, rather then other lords zeal like reverence or god like influence. Aye m'lord, even I would be heartened to see you fighting beside me and may even lose the will to fight should I see you fall"


That was the answer he was expecting, fearing and dreading. Why? Why should they be disheartened at my death when anyone can replace me and drive them ever onwards? he said no more on hte discussion however and began humming the tune which, while over a few centuries old, brought the nation together and helped them see their path, the song people all around Ederyon sang of The Sanctuary, the song that gave those fleeing, hope. Hearing this Mjorn immidiately began singing the words as his lord hummed.

Sunlight dances through the leaves


Soft winds stir the sighing trees


Lying in the warm grass


Feel the sun upon your face


Elven songs and endless nights


Sweet wine and soft relaxing lights


Time will never touch you


Here in this enchanted place...




You feel there's something calling you


You're wanting to return


To where the misty mountains rise and friendly fires burn


A place you can escape the world


Where the dark lord cannot go


Peace of mind and sanctuary by loud water's flow


I've traveled now for many miles


It feels so good to see the smiles of


Friends who never left your mind


When you were far away


From the golden light of coming dawn


Till the twilight where the sun is gone


We treasure every season


And every passing day


We feel the coming of a new day


Darkness gives way to light a new way


Stop here for a while until the world


The world calls you away


Yet you know I've had the feeling


Standing with my senses reeling


This is the place to grow old 'til


I reach my final day.


You feel there's something calling you


You're wanting to return


To where the misty mountains rise and friendly fires burn


A place you can escape the world


Where the dark lord cannot go


Peace of mind and sanctuary by loud water's flow



​

As they arrived back at the hall, after delivering their evening meal to the kitchen to be prepared, he summoned the wanding bards who had a glorious job, to travel to distant lands and spin tales of The Sanctuary, to let any and all about the land know where they may rest, even if temporarily, as many did merely pass through. The meeting was short and to the point, he sent them to the courts of all the lords within the continent of 'The Center' and one to his homeland, The Runom empire, the message they had was simple and well written, it went thusly.


"My lords, ladies and demigods of Ederyon. I invite you to dine with his Lordship Averiax, the Light Watcher and Lord of The Sanctuary of all things, He will have a table prepared and wishes to discuss a united future, not with one lord above any other, but an alliance of all peoples to protect our own lands from that of invaders, his lordship also provides you with the gift of my services for this fine night and, should you plan on attending this meeting of glorious leaders, until you reach The Sanctuary"


Each bard would read that to the lord of which ever court they found themselves in, and would answer any questions they had on the matter. Averiax did this because he felt they needed a rest, a party in which they could discuss a peaceful and allied future with a nation that posed no threat and often acted as mediator between nations, He also sent one futhur bard, with Mjorn, to Mjorns homeland, where he had not visited in his life, since Mjorns father fled after accidentally knocking over a statue and breaking it, the king all those years ago was not very forgiving, Mjorn hoped this had changed and damanded to be allowed to visit his ancestral home. Each bard carried a map with directions to Vitraxia, beautifully adorned by a master cartographer, His Lordship had indeed been planning this for almost a year now and, with the relative amount of peace he perceived around him he felt he had better send them forth now, before yet another war threatened such an event ever happening.

 

[Spacekitty]

Terranbar stood at the very front end of the mid-sized airship, leaning over the short railings, standing unyielding against the wind and the bitter cold that bit him even underneath his gleaming mithral armor.


From his breath taking vantage point he could see a sight like no other, one even a subterranian Dwarf could appreciate. A large and expansive first, cut in half by a glimmering river that spread out into a small delta as the forest suddenly ended in a golden beach. Beyond this, stretching as far as the eye could see was the ocean. A green-blue pool like no other. From his high vantage point the sea appeared as a perfectly flat plate stretching to the end of the earth.


Terranbar looked to left. Two Dark Legionnaries stood diligently, manning a 10inch cannon. They store ahead, looking intently into the horizon (of course when the King or their captain wasn't around thus wasn't the case).


Terranbar, struggling to contain his excitement, forces himself to walk slowly to the left rail of the ship. The view on this end was as amazing if not better. Here the dense jungle of a first gave way to a forest of un-rivaled beauty. The trees in the forest were stunningly green and significantly taller than normal trees. Even a Dwarf could feel the magic eminating from the heart of the forest. This was the home of the Elven nation that neighbored his trade city of Stone Haven. The two interacted through trade and Terranbar considered the two nation to be on gold terms.


As he stood balanced on the railing, lost in his thoughts, he was interrupted by the captain of the ship, Sendat.


"Beautiful view, ain't it?" he asked


"Aye" Terranbar said, now look out upon the ever nearing sea.


"Within the hour we'll be out on open waters, course set for the unknown" Sendat continued.


As much as Terranbar was unsettled by no longer having land beneath himself, looked forward eagerly to discoveries layed ahead. He had heard of great nations and strange beings in lands across this very sea, hopefully the tales would prove true


...


The day neared its end. The sun's tip just barely touched the the water, casting a magnificent pink glare on the now black waters. Suddenly a shadow blocked the sun..


Not a shadow, but an island. Blood coursed through out Terranbar's limbs as inticipation filled his very being. Slowly a great fortress city came into view.


The city was on well-sheltered harbor, shielded by a jutting piece of land. On this land, there was a string of fortresses and watchtowers all connected by a wall that ran back to the city-proper. This fortress wall was colored pink by the setting sun, the cannons, only visible due to their bright pink glimmer from the sun, marked it as a heavily defended wall to protect the port. Many more forts dotted the island, the fort at the end of the land having various close-range weapons against ships. In some of the forts, a cannon or two are visible being pointed upwards on a frame. It is primitive compared to the Dwarves' makings, but it looks decently effective. These cannons are not aiming at you. On the land side of the city, there are six walls surrounding the city, each with towers and emplacements for siege weapons to shoot back, along with lines of trenches, palisades, small holdouts, and hidden postern gates coming up from the ground in between them. These walls are very thick and a dull grey. They look built to last. Not fancy, but respectably solid. These walls and their towers also clearly have cannons.


Inside the city there is a clear manufacturing area, taking up about half of the city and being roughly in the middle although more towards the port. There is also what looks like training areas and barracks. Finally, there is a seventh wall around the Living Areas, where the Necromancers all live. This is relatively small compared to the rest of the city. The city looks very dull, due to the lack of ornamentation. Columns of smoke rise from a part of the city- an industrial section it is assumed.


The port is filled with ships of varying size, and some look almost impossibly large. The waters around are filled with ships, mostly of a smaller size. They wheel, turn, and sail at unnatural speeds. In the port itself, one can see smallish squat, armored domes. Some of these are jutting out on parts of the port, some are on the water's edge of the port, and many are along the water's edge as one enters in a ship. If one looked closely or are low enough, one could see that cannons protrude from these domes. Also visible is a constant bustle of activity and guards, appearing as small ant like figures from such a height All over the city are guard patrols, and all the fortifications look well-manned. Also in this area, though a little back from the port itself, is a slightly less grey and oddly snapped building. Around this complex is a veritable maze of towers, low walls, higher walls, mini-fortresses, holdouts, tunnels to different areas, and generally a confusing array of defenses.


Terranbar stared at the awe inspiring fortress city for a moment, taking in the breath taking view, before excitedly shouting;


"Bring her down! Me thinks it tine to see what these people are all about!"


Captain Fendat grins and starts ordering the pilot to bring the ship down. Slowly the airship begins ascending down to the city, until it gently lands on one of the great potts of the magnificent city.


@Fezzes

 

[general ostruppen]

Reports of the large nomadic tribes movement had reached to the Runom empire and the emperor was both confused and angry at the nomads action. He sent for the second and third legion to gather and March to the nomads, they would also be assisted by 3 auxilary armies. One of which had the Serion calvary of the northern deserts, these men were similar to the nomadic horsemen. The only difference were that these people equipped themselves with heavier armor, even there horses wore scale armor. These Calvary preferred to use lances or there long swords in case there lances broke. Overall the army had 18,000 infantry marching alongside 6,000 calvary (about 1,500 are Serion Calvary while the rest are regular auxilary Calvary). The Auxilary Calvary that had come from the east were stationed to the far north for the army feared that they would be betrayed in battle. For five days the army marched under the flag of the Runom empire in a long and narrow column. The journey was no trouble and they finally reached the vast flat land where the nomads lay. The general in his early 50's began shout orders to form the largest wedge formation the world had ever seen. The Legionares would be positioned in the left and right, while the auxilary soldiers with there spears would be stationed in center. four rows were also formed to reduce the enemys impact of they charged, they also had there Calvary on the far left and right. If the enemy tried and attempt a flank they would have to face the heavily armored Serion's and the other variety of auxilary Calvary. General Pompeiis who has had twenty four years worth of military experiance had his gaze on the nomadic tribe. His plan was to negotiate with the nomadic leader and figure out the reason for this aggression and hopefully have a peaceful conclusion. If war seemed imminent, then the plan that he had instructed to his five commanders would commence. Tho these nomads had supiorer Calvary the land had a somewhat advantage to the runoms. On the left side there laid a large river which helped protect his armies flank from being exposed, on the right and in front of him was partially flat land, but the enemy had the higher ground and were about a two miles from them. If battle comes Pompeiis knew that he had to take the initiative and storm the hill, if he stayed like a sitting duck then the enemy would have the initiative. That he did not want to give, however he had to keep in mind that his army was quite tired from the long march, he ordered his troops to take a break from where they were. Pompeiis then rode towards the nomad camp and accompanied with three Calvary. They had a white flag raised to show that they had come to talk. Pompeiis had hoped that he could test his battle plan, but he also reminded himself of the risk of these nomads turning to barbarians and reeking havoc across the empire. "I wish to speak to your leader." Pompeiis said.


@DefendKebab1918

 

[High Moon]

The Khan was sitting in his Yurt along with his Bannerlords from various tribes,His scouts had reported that the Runomians had gathered an Army and were marching towards their position.so he and his men were planning their tactics.He had already sent the Word of a possible war to Eastern,Southern and Northern Tribes.It would take one or two days for them to join the Horde,and he did not have enough time for that so he had ordered his men and women to get ready for a battle,and light twice as much fires than needed to make the enemy think that they had a larger army.He knewh if his scouts reports were true,they had atleast sent an Army Equal or stronger than their current forces.Well for his advantage he had Shamans,those who could call for Father-Mountain's help to summon storms,fire and Influence Animals...yes that would be a good surpsrise for the Runomian Cavlary maybe they could see that living a simple life and being one with nature has advantages,plus his people knewh the land better than the foreigners.that would even the odds aganist the Supperior Army of the Runomians.He and his Bannerlords had agreed on their battle plan,a defensive tactic would be disastirious for the Horse-man of the Khanate so a Offensive would be made,8.000 Horse-men forming a crescent to encircle the enemy,while 500 Bacıs and 1.000 Alps accomponied them from each side 1.500 Delis were to be stationed to frontline and charge the enemy possibly demoralizing them,500 shamans were to stay just behid the lines of Alps and Bacıs with 250 to each side.and at last the Mehteran band which consisted of 900 men in total,they were to stay behind to use their Insturiments aganist the enemies for the physcological aspect of the battle.a total force of 13.900 men and women would be on battlefield.as they were planning the last details a Alp came inside rushing telling them that the Runomians had arrived and were getting into battle positions,after hearing that all the men in the room rushed outside,seeing the Runomian Legions were on the horizon,The Khan started shouting orders to every one nearby,one of the young boys nearby brought him his Horse,and as soon as he mounted it he rode forth allong with others who were ready,soon enough allmost all of his forces were ready,and as his army and Runomian army came close,The Mehteran band started playing Marches,the combined sound of 900 men were so loud that even through all the Horses riding back and forth and armies marching it could be heard.and as both sides stopped,looking at eachother he heard the Runomian general had called for the Leader of the Horde maybe a peacefull solution was still possible,so he rode forth,all the Bannerlords and their guards fallowing behind carrying flags of the Khanate and Banners of the Tribes,as they came as near as possible The Khan said ''Ave to you General of the Runomians,it looks like violating our borders and going inside the Holy-lands of Father-Mountain was not enough for your Emperor,as he sent a whole army! I may tolarate your people in our Grazing Lands yet going inside the lands which has been granted to us by Father-Mountain that we are obliged to protect in honour of our Ancestors is un-tolaratable and insulting! ''


@general ostruppen

 

[general ostruppen]

As the small group approached they were able to get a closer look at this so called army. The soldiers behind Pompeiis seemed somewhat relaxed at seeing the sight of these people, these Auxialry soldiers were once like them. These people did not scare them, but rather got them excited to fight these people. Pompeiis however wanted to find any resolution to find peace, the grazing land was a huge benifit to the Runom empire and hearing the words sacred land being trespassed ticked him off. After listening to the leader Pompeiis understood what was going on and this was nothing new. Apparently rumors of precious ores and such had been found in the nomads sacred land after some had ventured it and returned with small pockets of gold which encouraged others to do the same. The general gave out a huge sigh and looked eye to eye with the nomad leader. "Leader of the khanate I understand now why you are angered. I assure you that the emperor had no intention of stepping foot in your sacred lands, you have been very generous in allowing us to come in your grazing land and for that we are humble. However there are some peasants and such that are consumed by greed and put themselves above the law. The people you saw coming into your lands were nothing but greedy folks that should know there place, the emperor had no part of such offense." He takes a pause to take a break from talking and then continues on. "If we can agree to talk this out and form a plan of such to make sure this doesn't happen then peace may continue. Tho that is up to you of course to decide what happens next."


@DefendKebab1918

 

[General Deth Glitch]

The Sanctuary feasting hall

One of the older members of the court were telling a great tale of love and loss, or adventure and adrenalin, one of the great tales. The Sanctuary was most certainly a place for someone looking for a great tale, which is why they had such an abundance of bards, since so many who travelled within their lands had a story to share from their home and nearly everywhere in the land wanted someone to tell them such a tale of woe. Indeed, many whom visited the land came only to hear a story by a fire with good food and good company. Averiax was smiling as he watched the children's face of shock and surprise at a slightly more intense part of the tale. He took another swig of his drink and leaned back on his 'throne'. There were two thrones in Vitraxia, one in the throne room, it was carved of stone and had intricate and beautiful carvings of dragons and shields, all culminating at the center where it showed a towering mountains whose peak resembled a crown and was indeed about level with the young kings head, was used for occasions like coronations and more spiritual events. The one Avariax sat upon was slightly simpler, but it too had dragons upon it, and an intertwining tree with convulsing branches which rose to form, again, the shape of a crown. This throne was made of wood and was situated in the feasting hall. The young king had invited the whole town to his hall to enjoy the spoils of his hunt which, along side the boar included a few rabbits and some mysteries from the kitchen. He watched the old man spin his tale as even grown men stood wide eyed at what he had to say. The room was warm, despite the cool night outside and the atmosphere was both serene and jolly. Just as he rested his head on his hand, he himself interested and listening to the story, a man burst through the door, he was an elf, he was immediately followed a pair of dwarves who had struggled to keep pace.


"MY LORD! The keepers to the west, smoke billows forth from their island and red flames dance about their house!" The elf shouted without hesitation of a pause.


"Aye m'lord!" said the first dwarf, a kinsman of Mjorn "I saw it too, I dinnae knoo wat tae saw" he continued, puffing and chuffing as he tried to get the words out "but I cant say it looked like any beast or man I know of!" The room was silent. All eyes were on the trio, two of whom were panting away as the last one stood straight.


The last dwarf then chimed in "Your Lordship I think they-"


"Not now!" Mjorns kinsman interrupted knowing that the dwarf was going to say what he though he say.


"No, I haftae! I beleive they were 'Deep Ones'" The room gasped as one, all but Averiax. He just looked deep into the dwarfs eyes, across the hall. He felt that the dwarf honestly beleived what he said, Mjorns kinsman chimed back in


"Tis just a mif lad, they dinnae exsist outta tall tales!"


"Sound the alarm." he said, coolly. Slowly rising from his seat. True the little island did not belong to The Sanctuary, they claimed independence and no one had ever had a problem with that, however, in all but name they were The Sanctuary. His Lordship was not going to ignore this threat. To travel to that island you either crossed a might ocean or you sailed in water owned by The Sanctuary and he knew which he thought more likely. "The storm arrives at last." he said as he exited the hall to continue wallowing in stunned silence. Not long after he left then he heard bells ring all over the land, calling to militia to arms. The Sanctuary was listening, now it just needed someone to target. All over the place torches could be seen rushing towards him as children were ushered into homes. He knew that this, be it a message to them or just an act of violence, was indeed a threat to their well being. "Loyal men of the Sanctuary, those who know that 'Darkness gives way to light a new way' and that 'Time will never touch you Here in this enchanted place' go to all the small villages and farmsteads, sound their alarms and have them rest the night in my hall. Until the sun rises a second time do not rest. While your friends and family rest away their fear and worry, prepare places for those who travel to stay! Build temperary homes for them all around this city, for only this small town, nestled between water and wood, aside a mighty waterfall and a well watched, dense wood, only here can we truly keep them safe. Bring all to Vitraxia and watch the woods. Protect the waterfall its majesty. Protect this hall and protect your king who would die for you as you would for me!" He called, damning himself that he let Mjorn persuade him to let him travel to the land of his kin. Mjorn, my dear friend, I hope you would think favourably of my actions. he thought, knowing that there was more to protect here then great value of many lives, but also the even great value of knowledge, of culture and of a way of life.

 

[Soviet Panda]

Buras hurried through the streets of this city. It was a grand city, he would admit, but he would much rather be in a Uros city once again. But he had business that needed to be done, and today's business called for knowledge. And the only thing that knowledge could be traded for was knowledge. Good thing he had found that old geezer going on about how the Uros walked the land almost as confidently as they soared through the skies. What non-sense, but Buras could tell that what they used before their ascension to the heavens could be useful to some other countries who relied more heavily on the land and didn't sail among the clouds.


The Uros Guild building stood in the western part of the Merchant district that dominated Erdith. It was a grand building and though it was still of Uros architecture it remained firmly in the ground. The doors to the building were open, a small servant holding them so with an almost annoyed expression on his face as he waited on the Uros merchant, with the prominent business man Achtusin Nirse waiting inside one of the many business rooms the building enjoyed, along with a scholar who was versed in the knowledge of magics. Achtusin was an man who was getting on with his years, evident by the deep wrinkles that lined his brow and cheeks along with the snow white drifts of hair that escaped the formal cap he wore, in contrast the scholar was young, with a sharp jawline and eyes as he waited for the Uros merchant, brimming with excitement at the clash of cultures that was about to happen. As they waited the elder put his hand on the scholar, looking up at him for a brief moment.


"kownar kinath. Calm" His voice was whispy, almost to the point of wheezing, though it was still stern in its command.


Buras entered the room, and gave a small bow. "I apologize for dishonoring you in my tardiness." he said before sitting cross legged at the low table. "Would you like anything? Perhaps some tea. Would you like some honey put in it? Perhaps something a bit stronger? Wine? Mead? I assure you that we have what you wish for." he went on, taking on the role of host. Honor was a fickle thing, especially so for the seemingly care free Uros. And as the servants scurried around to get what he said, whether the other man really wanted some or not, he got down to business. "It is a pleasure to have met with you, Achtusin Nirse. I hope we can both walk away from this with a smile. But I don't believe I know who this is. Care to introduce him? I would hate to simply resort to calling him 'man' when he has a perfectly good name that can be used."


The elder regarded the other with a cold gaze as he sat down before motioning for the other to do the same, which he eagerly did so. After a moment he brought over a serving girl, ordering a cup of tea before returning his gaze back to Buras, wetting his lips. "Do'cre Buras of Uros. I am Achtusin Nirse of Reysal, something you already know it seems, and my companion is Velthin Grimun of Yrnith." He looked over the foreigner for a moment before being interrupted as the server came back with his tea, setting it in front of him with a small smile before standing back. He took a sip of the tea, letting the scalding liquid pass over his lips and burn down his throat with just but the slightest wince as he considered the trade beforehand. "Im sure you did not just come here to make talk with an old man, being a man of Uros." His voice held a slight edge to it, though he did not seem to mean much by it, his whole being seeming to be absorbed in the act of gently setting his cup of tea back down.


"Of course not," Buras said, waving everything off with one hand. "I just needed to get the pleasantries out of the way." That said, he leaned forward and set his elbows on the table, fingers laced together. "I have with me perhaps the only written document of the Uros, a military document of the times we strode across the great deserts instead of soaring above them. Tactics, armor and weapon designs, how we were able to survive without our current luxuries." As he spoke, he placed the rolled up documentary on the table, gently positioning it just so. "And I figured you and your associates would be able to make more use of it then I can. And I'm sure, if nothing else," Buras added "some bibliophile would pay handsomely for possibly the only copy of Uros text."


Achtusin raised an eyebrow, parchinghis lips again. "Uros texts of old. They would be worth far more than any magic book the Ryncerith have in their possession. And you come at a good time, our great empire has just launched war. Would you honor me with the sight of such knowledge?" He stared at the other for a moment, Velthin fidgeting impatiently beside him as he scribbled words and glyphs down on a piece of paper, recording the discussion.


"But of course. It sits right before you." Buras said, gently bobbing towards the rolled up parchment. "And I do know the price. But I'm sure we can work something out." Perhaps he can create some sort of connection with this aged trader. If he could spread his name around as a trader, the better his hauls will be and the more other merchants will step forward and bid for his attention instead of the other way around.


He chuckled lightly at his mistake before gently reaching down and grabbing the scroll, his elderly fingers wrapping around the aged parchment for a moment before unrolling it, eyes drifting across the symbols for a moment before he handed it off to the scholar with a small grunt. "Now Buras of Uros. Im going to put my trade on the table. I want one Uros airship large enough to hold 1500 drukins of cargo as well as a the scroll in exchange for half my weight in gold and our books." As he finished he looked over to the scholar, who blinked, a confused expression on his face, before realizing what he was meant to do, scurrying off out of the building for a moment before bringing back three worn books, the covers long have faded away to the bare leather, tentatively setting the records down between the two.


"Oh? And what are these?" Buras said, feigning interest. On the inside, he was whistling with joy. If these were what he thought they were, then he could make another tidy sum on one of the floating cities that hovered over the Great Dunes. But that was only if they were what he thought they were. "I'm afraid to say that I might not be able to get that Uros airship you wish for. I could point you in the direction of a rather reliable fellow that would do it for a lowered cost if you mention my name, however." He'd give him the ship gladly for these texts, but the game of haggling had to be played out to it's fullest, lest someone feel cheated. And he would not pay for transporting someone else's goods.


The old man sighed, leaning back a little as if saddened, his stern eyes watering just in the slightest. "Well what a shame, these old bones are going to be set to rest soon and I just wanted to see the cities of Uros at least once in my life. No matter, if you cannot give me the ship then I should expect 6000 in currency, in addition to the novels." In fact he somewhat despised the lofty Uros, and only wanted the ship so that he could expand into their markets with ease, thus why he asked such a steep price in compensation for the lost trade.


"Hm, they are truely a sight to behold." Buras replied. Inspecting the books, he gingerly lays a hand on one. "May I see what these books are about. My skill in your alphabet may be a bit rusty, but I'm sure I can manage." he asked politely. He felt a bit sad for denying this man a trip to the Uros cities. Perhaps he should talk to his friend to lower the price a bit more. "And the price is agreeable, I know how expensive some captains can be. Finding a reliable one is hard enough, but adding the right price to it makes it near impossible."


"Go on, Velthin will assist you if you." He said took another sip of his tea as he let the other peruse the books, the young scholar moving to his side in case he needed any help, though he seemed to be more concerned with the handling of the rare books rather than the translation. His last sentence was somewhat of a jab, though it could be easily looked over by those who were not paying close attention or just did not care all too much on the matter


For the most part, Buras got through the book at a rather decent pace. Occasionally he would point out a word that the scholar would have to translate, but it was to be expected. And if he read and heard correctly, this was a book of magic. Yes, this would do nicely. "I thank you for visiting me here. This has hopefully been a profitable venture for the both of us." he said, extending a hand to finalize the agreement. "I shall show you the captain I have talked about personally. You'll see the Uros cities yet."


He shook the others hand, his grip surprisingly firm, motioning the scholar back with a small nod before letting go and standing up, his bones loudly popping as he straightened himself out. "Oh you honor me, but I am sure I can find him myself if but give me a name. And on my old heart I will mention your name when I do, Buras of Uros." The scholar reached between them, grabbing the scroll quickly before returning to his previous position standing beside the two.


"If you insist. His name is Shana. Good man, he'll get you were you want to go quickly and in one piece." Buras said, only slightly offended by the rejection of showing him the way. The man was no doubt busy as he was, so he understood. "And simply saying Buras will be enough for him. Safe winds and warm sands."


Giving the formal farewell, if a shortened one, Buras gathered up the books and summoned over a servant. "Put these in my room, and please be as careful as you can." With that, the servant left, and buisness was concluded.

 

[Three Clubs]

Gromand’s Keep

​

King Naroku leaned back into his grey throne. It was far too small for him and it took a great reveal of effort to not show any discomfort in front of his court. In the grand hall of Gromand’s keep the great families had been summoned to discuss the upcoming campaign. The hall was adorned with a great many banners of the great houses hanging from the walls. Some had not changed since the forgotten days, still depicting the animalistic identities of their ancient clans. Others had been fully transformed into more modern forms, with proper and elegant symbols of authority. The original flag of Naroku, a blue and gold human standard with the symbol of the bear clan painted in blood.


A human peon was standing in front of the throne, announcing the names of each family as they entered the hall and took their positions. The orc families and their human servants placed themselves by their rank and influence in the court, as has been done since the days of Naroku the Tenth who was the first to reinstate human traditions. His legacy was noble as any Naroku and Reiklan needed to make sure he left a legacy just as great as any of his ancestors. Tradition and authority is what separated his people from their savage kin, as long as a Naroku held the throne they will never revert back to the time before the forgotten age.


“All rise for his highness, King Naroku” Finished the peon as all families had taken their position in court. Tradition dictated that a human must be the one to call the meeting into order as this peons family had done since time immemorial. The court rose in unison, divided only by some choosing a formal bow and others beating a fist over their chest. Such contention was not a welcomed sight in the court this day.


Reiklan wasted no words in his introduction “Are nation is in peril” he stated plainly “We are under attack not by revolt or famine, but by our own ignorance.” The court remained silent and unflinching, as is expected any stoic orc noble. “We have many records of bravery and honors, tomes filled with the tales of heroism, yet even now I know of some you who do not know how your own fields are irrigated!” He cast a quick glance at one family near the back of the hall and was met with downward glances. “Because of this, I declare that this day we begin the second great conquest. Like our ancestors of old we will unite under the Naroku banner and retake the knowledge that is our just due.”


Applause mixed with bellows filled the hall until King Naroku raised his fist for silence. “I give every one of you permission to seek out sources of knowledge, in any use or form, and return it to Naroku. The rewards for knowledge have been great in the past and I plan to continue that legacy” A momentary glance was given to the human family of Yemont, whose elevation to knighthood came from their reinvention of siege engines.


“I ask you to send envoys to all corners of the earth offering wealth and friendship to anyone willing to aid us in this endeavor” he kept his head tilted to the formal families of the north and east as he spoke of diplomacy and shifted his position towards the more uncivilized western and eastern families as he said “Of course if they are not willing to accept our gifts, then they will pay with blood!”


The hall filled with cheers from all families as they chanted “To Naroku my life!” The beginning of a new era was upon them and Reikland would lead them to a golden age not seen since his ancestor first claimed the golden crown that sat on his head.


As the noise died down the peon stepped forward once more “Moving on to the other business for the court, Lord Tredmire has accused Lady Yerton of attempting to encroach on his hunting lands near their western border. In her defense…”The court continued as normal that day, but even before it was officially ended the families had begun to give orders to emissaries to spread the King’s message.


Blood and books would be the legacy of King Reikland Naroku.

 

[Obi-Wan Kenobi]

Mordius shook his head, solemnly. "This discussion leads only to the conclusion that we're confused." Volkov began to speak again when the voice of a Freeson floated up towards them. "Lord Volkov! King Mordius! Airship sighted!" The two men looked out to the sky, searching for it. Volkov pointed quickly to an area. "There!" Volkov was pointing at a small shape above the horizon. It seemed to be getting closer. "Volkov, if they land, I will greet them. Gather some Thrall Hagh'var guards and bring them to me, as soon as possible." Volkov bobs his head, before vanishing in a veil of darkness.


Mordius stays, watching the airship get closer and closer. This would be a good foil to the lack of recent excitement. Especially if they landed. As the minutes ticked by and the sun crept closer to the horizon, it seemed as if they would do just that. They angled down, slowly moving towards an empty space in one of the docks that could fit their craft. Mordius smiled and focused, tapping his staff to the wooden floor and reappearing without ceremony or special effects halfway to the dock that the airship was landing in. In front of him was Volkov, jogging back to where Mordius used to be, with four columns, 25 skeletons deep, following him. All 100 skeletons were lightly armoured in chainmail and helmets. The outer 50 were armed with a sturdy spear in their right and a thick, round shield in their left. The inner 50 were armed with metal crossbows, quivers over their backs. The crossbows had wicked spikes under the front, acting as a bayonet. Volkov didn't flinch as Mordius appeared. "The soldiers." The corner of Mordius' mouth tugged upwards slightly into a smile. "Good. Let's see what these travelers want, shall we?"


Mordius now headed the group, with Volkov just behind him and the Hagh'var behind that. About fifty metres in front of them, the airship was just touching down. This section of the harbour was almost clear of activity. The pace slowed to a steady, marching rhythm. As they reached the ship, Mordius called orders. "Spyd, danner en vegg! Armbrøst, komme bak dem! Våpen klar!" The skeletons reacted immediately. The two spear ranks broke off, jogging to a position near the ship and closing ranks. The front rank placed their shield together and overlapping, spears protruding and ready for use. The rank behind pressed up against the first rank, bracing them with their shields and holding their spears over the top, ready to jab over the top. The crossbows spread into one line and readied them, but didn't point them yet.


Mordius called out to those on the ship. They looked like Dwarves. He'd seen the artistic depictions, but he'd never seen one in real life. "Hilsener reisende! Fra hva fjernt lander hagl du? Hvorfor er du her?" A thought occurred to him. These Dwarves probably didn't know the Tongue of Jormand. He should probably try it again in Trade Cant. "Greetings, travellers! From what distant lands do you hail? Why are you here?"


@Bobisdead123

 

[Yonsisac]

Markov after his walk around the city he was call in by the adviser and king to be his eyes and ears at the test of a prototype weapon,or rather said Loading-a-wall-placement-weapon-on-a-Boat situation,dint seem like a good idea but seem possible and as well "Innovation" the drakes are not that smart and like how dragonite was created,they just drop lots of random metals and BOOM dragonite! here is load a weapon on a ship and BOOM new ship.

"Is the ship ready?"

"Yes sir,the "Dragonator" has been loaded and ship ready to depart"

".....This is the first time we actually Load a dragonator on to a ship,i just hope thus test this it wont shred the ship apart"

"Yes...In fact we are not even sure if the structure of the ship can even handle the pressure from the firestone,should we warn the crew?"

"Indeed...warn the crew,especially those operating the Dragonator,Once we are ready i want all crew out of the Chambers and on deck,last thing i would wish is one stuck in the vessel and be torn apart by this"

"Yes sir,I feel we are taking thing little far,we have ships that are made to crash on to enemy vessels and that is enough but this....I feel its gonna fail,i just hope the idea of loading a dragonator on a airship docent pop up"

"A dragonator wont work on a airship...never will....prepare for departure"

Markov stood standing high with hands behide his back as he look at the large ship "The Visage" a large ship made from a skull,the skull forms most of the ships hull,the Keel and stem of the ship where made of thick Plated Bones,Carved in the form of a plate of a reptile,a dragon to be exact,the Main deck was made of wood but some sections of bones giving it a good mix,3 Massive sails reach the heavens with each having the color and shape of there nations flag,But this ship has been change to Carry the Drakes fears station weapon "The Dragonator" the Hold,Gun deck and orlop where empty from there unnecessary needs and replace with a dragonator,the Hold was equip with a large metal Oval container full of Firestone and water,and Very pre-tech "Pipes" leading to the upper deck,the "Pipes" where not the best looking and the drakes dint have best tech but knew something,at the gun deck sat the Beautiful Dragonator,the massive metallic spear full of Dragonite saw teeth,the tip of the spear could be seen coming out of the skull-hull,s mouth,behind the spear was the pipe attach t the spear itself,seems this mechanic was to thrust the large metal spear forward with great force.


(Closes example for help)

A Dragonator is any powered melee system that deploys massive spikes used to damage foe,s. While the developer and time of development are unknown, the Guild regularly installs them in strategic locations to help in battle with large monsters that invade the city or for war. Dragonators consist of at least three pieces: the machinery, the weapon, and the control unit. Little is known about the machinery, other than the fact that it uses pressurized steam to launch the weapon. The steam is provided by firestone fed. The location of the fire is, presumably under or behind the weapon. The weapon itself consists of massive rod-like objects which are propelled by the steam at high velocities at the target area. The weapon can be as simple as iron spears, or as complex as spiky,type. There can be types of multiple rods launched from each Dragonator but that is not the case. The control unit is where the switch is located. It is usually located above the spikes.in this situation is located on the top of the deck,being a large switch that needs to be push with great force of 2 drakes,one push a small hatch would open and pressure pushes the spear forward,but could not be closed,the drakes are not so smart as well,but the drakens just being children to steam tech this might not go well.making it worse....and very bad idea,as the drakens are more YOLO than planing


(sorry had to include it......its a fact)


Markov stood on the main deck looking at the sea as the ship slowly departure from the docks,he sigh and said under his breath "I still cant believe i was sent to observe how those it work if we load a stationary Weapon made for our walls on a dam ship...."he said to himself as they where not far from the shore,a crew of just 7 where in the ship to test this idea,2 where near the heavy lever as 3 where in the cargo where the large furnace was making sure the firestone was ok and ready,last 2 are in the gunner deck where the dragonator was place,"Sire the firestone is ready!"

"Light the stone....ready the dragonator"

"Yes sir will tell the crew"

"...I have a bad feeling for this"

as he gave the order the drakes in the furnace with there fire breath,the stone suddenly burst in a blaze as the hatch was close and let the pressure do its work,the pipes creek as the heat starts catching up,the 2 in the gunner deck made sure the dragonator dose not fail in the process,markov can hear the creeks of the pipes as he would take a deep breath and say with a slight worry tone "...now"he said,the two bulky drakes would begin to push the heavy lever,even drakes had a hard time pushing just this one lever,as they did dose inside where on deck for safety,but as soon it succeed,*Shiiiiiiing* the loud sound of metal scraping of the dragonator being push with full force,the massive spear is seen be push with violent force out of the ship,s mouth,the pressure was so strong the ship jolted backward and began rocking back and forth,but as all seem to succeed the left side of the ships hull would creek and and snap,chunks of wood fly out as flames begin to burst out of the ships side,the bones where strong but cracks appear as they began from Ivory turning Black as coal from the blaze as water began to fill the ship,the ship tilt of the weight of the water,it shook and tremble,the Furnance unable to handle the presure and flames from the firestone egnite the inside quickly "Ugh! Abandon ship! fly to the shore!"

Results from nation


1. Failed attempt on pressure tech

2.Draken Intellect not High enough to gain such tech (If im correct just 2 education)







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*Meanwhile far south of the draken nation at sea*

a Medium size fishing ship was deep in sea as Bomb Arwonas where Very abundant in this time of the year,large net was cast upon the glass sea as the ship slowly sail froward trapping any arwona that got in the way of the net,it slowly fill,drakes operate the nets on the left as same with the right,the ship itself compared to most drake ship was made of pure wood,no bones and such ship is pretty rare as bones are more used that wood being stronger but for a fishing ship there was no need for it,its 2 large mast where fully open as it catches the wind instead of fish,the ship only posses 3 decks being the main Upper deck,the crew and small cargo in the second and finally the bottom of the ship was full of large barrels or any sort of container,full of water where the fishes are stored to be bring back alive or at least to be alive for longer time as most fishes and sea animals are brought back alive as drakes think "If its alive,its fresher" so they bring alive then kill,or as drakes call it where fishes are place "The Meat Deck".

"There is a lot of arwona this month,cant wait to feast on the Biggest Ghaahahahaha!"

"Hey folk'a dont get ya hopes up to soon,we might just get a skull hermit tied in out nets again and lose all the big ones....and net"

"Pffft don't worry,we have spears now so if one decides to mesh up,we can just kill it and get extra!"

"Yea yea....Just don't get Pinch or snap in two ok Ghahaha!"

"Um....mates may you lay your eyes on south-east pleas..."

"What is i-..Oh...i see something"




the Oldest drake warn there mates as all 3 went to the bowsprit of the ship and see from the distance something shining upon the horizon,with there keen eyes all 3 on deck fishing could see some...odd looking island in the distance..Unknown to them,most where inside the boat loading fish in there containers and checking size as the 3 fishermen observe at the distance this unknown island,the drakes have yet to explore more out sea.
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@Idea


(Sorry im late...busy)

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