YOU ARE A GOD! (Roleplay)

[Pat]

This is the roleplay thread for YOU ARE A GOD! Longer monologues for the sake of roleplay or responses to events go here. Every week, a 'turn' passes, and each season lasts four turns. Our story begins halfway through the season of winter.

 

[Crocodile]

Forest of Pine join the Allesvasser
-Expending 1 Wealth from Vasserhold along with Water and Earth magic to expand the aqueducts of Undersprings into Forest of Pine, bringing the waters of the Allesvasser to the Province.​

The brawny figures in Vasserfolk in their leathers and tunics at work is easy to see. Shipments of stone are coming to lay ground work even as the Allesvasser himself is present, tapping into his water and earth magics to raise what appears to be a sturdy and impressive aqueduct. It it to bear the waters of the Oracle Fountain down from the source hidden away in the fortress of Vasserhold up in the peaks of Undersprings. The faith of the Allesvasser encourages this practice, to bring the powerful waters to the faithful along with helping to breath more life into the land and cleasnse it of any potential lurking dark forces.

"I don't like it," grumbles Rojar Ironson to the Allesvasser as he regards the new body of his Oracle while they surpervise the construction of the aqueduct.

"I know, Rojar, but... they needed a sign of how serious I am. So I will wear and protect this vessel as a show of good faith," said the Allesvasser with a smile as he regards the Vasserborn Jarl.

"I know, Allesvasser, but it still rankles some of the people. The Elf-folk have hurt us before..." Rojar said with scowl.

"And how often have men harmed them?" Countered the Allesvasser with that same sad smile. "Change is hard, Rojar but your people have endured much. So have they. We now reach a point where the world needs both. Man and Elf need to stand together. Other things are coming, I don't know what but I can feel the potential for darkness and conflict. Both sides need this. My will needs to expand here for them as much as to help you. Have not the wood and herb shipments been a boon?"

"Yes... my son is recovering faster from the herbal medicines we were able to make, Allesvasser," Rojar said reluctantly as he seems more thoughtful. "It will be hard. I've seen the reports. Elves are leave the Forest. Those unable to stomach our new bond of kinship. The Vasserfolk stand behind you and now these Elf-folk. We will embrace them as you have asked us to, show them what it means to be a friend to our people."

"I know you will, Rojar. I have faith in you," said the Allesvasser with a warmer smile as he gives the large Jarl's shoulder a squeeze. "I hear they've been happy for your stone and even put in orders for coal and iron. This is a good start, Rojar. We will make their lands stronger even as we strengthen Undersprings. This is just the beginning. Other provinces will join and we will build a land where we can prosper together and protect each other. Hopefully that may draw others to come be kin with us as well."

"As you say, Allesvasser. We are prepared to forge ahead with you. You have never let us down and we know you have always been prepared to sacrifice for us," said the Jarl before strutting off to shout orders as workers were arguing over the latest shipment of stone for the aqueduct.

The Allesvasser just smiles sadly as he ponders the name of life of his new host. He would make his sacrifice mean something for the sake of all involved. This aqueduct was just the beginning of that even as Elves and Vasserfolk argued and bartered over their trade goods in the first signs of a new bond forming between these provinces. So far no one had been shot or stabbed, which was a very good sign.

 

[Gravitational Force]

A Festival of Feasting for the Faithful:​

The Golden Fields were named for the golden wheat that grew there, not the precious metal. There was plenty of the later, but of far more importance was the massive surplus of food that could be produced and how easily it could be grown. It made sense then for the materialistic cult of Gol-Remez to have made their start there, even if it was also where his predecessor had held the most sway.

​

Sualc Atnas, the current First Mouth of Gol-Remez (a position other religions would refer to as "High Priest") stood above thousands of his fellows, his voice magically amplified to reach every ear. Behind him stood Gol-Remez's citadel, the divinely-charged monument to the god's greatness drawing in the faith of his followers and channeling it into power.


Due to their religion's encouragement of personal preference and the abundance of dye their lands produced there was no one standard attire, but it was understood that those blessed to speak for Gol-Remez should dress in a way that made clear their station. Atnas had chosen as his robes of office a velvet coat of red and white. A floppy red hat with a single white ball attached adorned his head, pointed red shoes were on his feet, and numerous sacks stuffed to the brim with gifts wrapped in green and red paper surrounded him. Despite having served Gol-Remez's predecessor for his entire life Atnas had happily made the switch, glad that he was longer required to perform human sacrifice. So with his hair as white as his beard and a protruding waistline from his indulgence in the bounty Gol-Remez brought (especially milk and cookies), he delivered a speech.



"Does Gol-Remez demand that we dedicate our lives to him? No! He only asks that we live them to the fullest.

Does he demand our fealty? No! He only asks that we work to ensure all can enjoy the pleasures this world holds.

Does he demand anything from us? No! We CHOOSE to spread his faith to all and bring about the Great Work that shall bring about The Promised Day when all shall be united the Paradise he shall create.

Gol-Remez does not demand our faith. He knows us and unlike other gods asks nothing we cannot give. We are his children and even as he guides as as a loving parent he also rewards our rightful actions! Not just through the power of our faith, but with the fulfillment of our material desires!"

As Atnas says this the Mouths surrounding him begin tossing presents to the crowd, whose previous silence is broken by them scrambling to grab them for themselves. Aside from some shoving it's surprisingly nonviolent, and by the time the sacks have been emptied most of the crowd has gotten something.

"Take these. If what you have recieved is not something you want, exchange it with someone else. If you can't give it to somebody it will bring happiness to. And know that you do Gol-Remez's work by bringing joy to others. And that true joy comes from giving the greatest gift of all: the opportunity to join us in our revelry."

"And this is only the beginning of our festivities. BEHOLD: the abundance that only Gol-Remez can provide us!!!"

A pulse of darkness thrummed from the citadel, enhancing the senses of the faithful caught in it's area of effect. As it finally ended at the back of the crowd, a miracle happened.

Where before there had been rows of empty tables, now they were suddenly groaning under the literal tons of food covering them. And even the least devout proved their devotion through their indulgences that day. For none could eat a bite or take a sip without realizing how much better it all tasted. By the end of it their hearts were as full of faith as their stomachs were full of food.

Gol-Remez was there as well, having chosen a vessel to contain enough of his consciousness that he too could indulge. He had to switch between them repeatedly or else their stomachs would burst with all the food he had them consume. By the end of the feast it was Gol-Remez's last vessel who devoured the last scraps before belching hugely and collapsing.

The god's hunger was never fully sated, but this would do for now.

 

[Auriel Maza]

Hajova's Internal Development
Winter Turn 1

[Witch-Haven] - [Audio Track]

Part 1: Olo's Construction
​

The tall lumbering trees, the scent of blackberries filled the air. Dashes of wind sprayed forth and fro in random directions in an almost unnatural dance. Little blubs of decaying leaves shimmered across the ground as a chilly rain descended calmly through the shin-high, dormant undergrowth. The occasional snap of falling tree limbs creates a staccato across the ever heard whole note of zing. The forest felt somewhat asleep, under its usual orchestral sound. In a sudden crescendo, the flap of wings felt across the trees. Graceful yet potent, the swosh and szing as a black form twirls and flips across the canopy, passing by the small wisps floating just under the branches. Landing by rock tools, lumber, and a detailed blueprint inked in periwinkle glow; arches of Oshinec cascaded across the page as the winged figure exposed its bright, nectar-colored belly scanned across all of the items. Long, pointy ears on its head; small snout and a duet of small protruding fangs destined its face to strike passion in some, fear in others. This winged figure proclaims itself through its tall statue and meditative pose as a Chiropteran, one who arose from bats long ago. Could they be found in books? Well, if you dug enough maybe. They may be the most recognized for the animist beliefs, though those beliefs remain in their heads. Their hearts channelled Hajova now; their reward for their dutiful and dedicated devotion to the spirits. The Chiropteran gazed at the blueprint carefully. The detailed numbers and mathematics along with the immaculate handwriting held testament to Hajova's dedication to function and form. He scanned along the tree, making marks gently with a red stone bound to the end of a stick. Flying counter-clockwise along the trunk, Olo planned supports and platforms for Hajova's newest initiative. A series of platforms for those hunting, pest-clearing, or anything for the matter across Witch-Haven as a place to rest and operate various traps she had devised. Olo investigated a hollow trunk with a large circle in periwinkle glow across the top. He slowed his movements as he looked through the spiderweb wrap around each trunk. Bee hives stuffed the log like a turkey. Hajova professed that bees were far more harmful than fire. The wrap itself is durable enough for transport, not for when the log would fall. Olo flapped his wings together as he moved his fingers, finding the support beams marked with a vertical line. He heaved and ho'ed those for preparation as swoshes and szings filled the air.

Olo calmly ate a blackberry as his fellows readied and placed the wood together, carved and carefully made for its new function. He carefully lashed and glued with a mixture of spiderwebs and trap sab to hold each plank and connector together. He carefully measured and placed each guard rail before he worked with his brother, Jorega, on the trap mechanism. Jorega stood around 6'3", around a head taller than Olo. Together they spun the rope together and laced it upon the gears that would hold the log in place. Once the bare necessities were snuggled just right, Olo gathered the excess lumber and crafted a small set of tables and stools for sitting, eating, and conversing. Upon approaching dawn, Olo gathered the work crew and flew back to Witch-haven Hold.

TLR: Hajova tasks her Chiropteran followers (200 ish/ what's needed) to construct landing pads across Witch-Haven and ready them with bee-ridden traps. Roll: 7

Part 2: Takuma's Field Study
​

"My Kodama, why has our Teotl sent us now. Winter still speaks within the song." A human druid with animal skin clothes, blue paint across his arms and face in Tiger form approached and spoke swifty.

Takuma raked back his maroon hair, centering his circlet with the sea-colored stone inside of it, "She wants us to discern any exciting plant work to help our people. I think with Winter wanning, she wants to screen for hard plants that could be used in crater lake. Though, she had not disclosed particularly why."

The party of druids (8) scour and appreciate the natural beauty of Witch-Haven having a grand time studying and identifying plant life. Trails, wading through the Jacoyba River, and spotting Chiropterans flying to and fro from worksites. They spend the night amongst the trees before returning to Hajova's crater hold.

As they returned, Takuma traveled along the hardened roots of the Spria trees to reach Hajova's ancient shrine at the center of her Reformation crater. There she awaited for him. He placed his hands in hers as they briefly spoke.

"Mother, should I report on our findings?" Takuma's hands fizzled a little. His body stilled. Hajova swayed them side to side. While not truly her child, Takuma became Hajova's step-child through the death of his mother and the disappearance of his father.

"Oh sweetness, the sun rises as we speak. You must'en get to bed. Don't want those sunbirds to peck you. Chat we will when those paintings of eyes of yours get their sheen back. Quick now."

Takuma nodded, rolling his bed roll in the small dug out in front of the shrine. He lifted off his deerskin tunic, leaving his fiber pants and circlet. Hajova nestled her white cushion under his head, placed a hand on his forehead as he breathed deeper and deeper. As his nose snickled and woshed in sleep, Hajova returned to a ball of black mist in the center of the crater, awaiting word of news.

TLR: Hajova tasks her druids to scan the province for useful plants before Spring begins its concerto. Roll: 8

Beckoncall

 

[Pat]

​

The deafening blast wave and rippling aftershocks of the terrible and calamitous explosion overhead broke over the unyielding edifice that was House Xeres as it's awakened master willed it's howling ascent through an labyrinthine urban substrata à la unsurveyed forgotten catacombs, ruins, dungeons, passageways, and sewers. Just as the fortress withstood the millennia, the Capital far above would be saved from complete annihilation, whether by the Pantheon's grace, or Muurdaan steel...

He looked to the Preservers hurriedly flitting about the feet of kneeling Housemen Elite that they squired, first to emerge from the din of the castle armory presently occupied by the legions roused from their barracks. It was certain that the forces of his vanguard alone, their potence born from hate kept in check only by cunning, would shake the city to it's foundations were the great armored hulks unleashed. Overlord Xeres laid a mailed fist upon the tower bridge gate when finally the palatial heights of the structure pierced the surface and broke free with a long rumbling shudder as a series of mana depleted enchantments dispelled and it came to a rest securely atop it's former earthen prison. "You're about to enter the greatest battle of your life," he addressed the assembling ranks of troops. "The fate of humanity is intertwined with the city-state of Muurdaan and it's empire. Fail, and all of her accumulated wisdom and memory will be scattered to the four winds. Succeed, and you'll be honored for generations to come." The man declared. "Your cohort will cut a bloody swath through the invader for the Terror Teams and legions following in your wake to reach their objectives. Show no mercy to the enemy, and before the day is out I'm certain to have the proud Underlord Touryan for my cupbearer." He smirked at the thought of the Capital Houses groveling at his feet once the dust had settled, signaling the tower watchmen to open the way to the drawbridge and lowering his visor as soldiers cheered.

What he saw then gave him pause unlike anything else on earth. It appeared the likes of prophecy had run it's course for the children of Muurdaan. A vast smoldering crater far below, devoid of all life, swarmed with errant hordes of golems and elementals created from residual magics surrounded and bid him welcome to what little remained of his home. In that moment, the disturbing implications of the rest of Muurdaan's displacement to another plane of existence, rather than the havoc and destruction that he had feared, was too great for him to bear. The rulers of the Eternal Empire had in their cowardice abandoned their people to ride out the end times without scarcely a thought of sparing the rest of mankind. "The council has betrayed their sacred trust. It falls to House Xeres to shepherd humanity now."

 

[Trektek]

Gillian and Halmed were walking through the town square where the celebration was at its highest point. They were both dressed in comfortable clothing. The people of the Silverlanes were able to mange well, thanks to their Lord, Inziim. Gillian was a healer that used the medicinal waterplants to help the people. She was still fully learning the craft, but hopefully by the next winter, she would graduate to the next Rank of Healer. Halmed was a miner in the Quartz mines. It was a valuable material and one that was highly placed. Both had important jobs in this settlement.

The music was festive and full of joy. The undead Calvary put on a show of a parade, maneuvering with depth and skill to the amusement of the crowd. Tomorrow there would be services to morn those who had been lost in the battle, but for tonight, tonight they would celebrate their great victory.

Halmed turned to Gillian with a turkey leg in his hand. "So why do you suppose that we are having such a grand celebration?"

Gillian placed her hands on her hips and slightly cocked her head to the left. "Really, Halmed? Were you not listening to the proclamations?"

The man took a bite out of the turkey leg and shrugged his shoulders.

Gillian sighed as one of her hands moved to her own forward as she shook her head back and forth. "Honestly, I don't know why I spent my time with you if you are going to be so dense." She waved her right arm around as she motioned to the undead troops. "Lord Inziim, with assistance from the rest of the his new pantheon, The Kahinzi were able to crush the Pretender Mitrix and save the region of Quennan, just as our God should be able to do."

Halmed nodded as he took another bite of his turkey leg. He gave a hard swallow before he started to speak again. "So we're celebrating the victory over this False God?"

Gillian pulled a few locks of her hair over her left ear. "Yes, and the successful forming of the new Pantheon. It is a joyous occasion. The God of Luck, Kai and the Goddess Hajova, of the Earth, Sky, and Void.

Another hard swallow of turkey leg, Halmed started tapping his chest with his fist until the moment passed. He'd have to get himself some water soon or that would just get worse. "Oh wow. they sound pretty strong. But of course they'd have to be if our Lord Inziim has teamed up with them.

Gillian smiled. "Yes, of course. Inziim knows best. Hence how easily he crushed that Pretender Mitrix in one on one combat. What I would have given to see that glorious moment."

The music became louder and the pair gave in to the full enjoyment of the new Holiday.​

 

[Heyitsjiwon]

Winter solitude
in a world of one color
the sound of wind
gently fills the ruins.

​

Among the rubble, the fortress of the Children of Attolia stood defiant against the ceaseless torrent of the chilling winter breeze. Peace and harmony filled the walls of the fortress as a flute solemnly sang throughout the halls, accented by the sounds of footsteps crunching the frozen earth, and simple chatter among its inhabitants. The people eagerly went on with their daily duties in this cold morning. Food was being prepared, birds tended to, rubble being cleared out and various items made in small workshops. This was the peace and safety that the people had come back to the Old World for, a small oasis of respite and comfort in the midst of the turning of the wheel. Yet, beyond the walls, the Improbably Pot knew... even seen the horrors that awaited for these dovish people. It mattered little what terror or storm awaited outside for the Pot. It would pass through the tides as it had always done. Yet, for the people who looked to the Pot for guidance, the Pot knew that their mortal coils were ephemeral at best. They would not find physical salvation in this world; however, spiritual ascendance was a distant, yet open door for their salvation. Physical death was not a terminal state of the self.

The Pot sat at the altar room as before him, rows of masked men wearing pot shaped hats sat on their knees, without moving or making noise. Only one of these men, sitting to the right of the Pot had earned the honor today to play a wooden flute and guide the others in their meditations. In this room, it did not matter which clan one belonged to or how much coin one carried in their pocket. These were physical illusions meant to pervert the spirit into creating a false sense of meaning and security in life. Such false meanings only creates more suffering for the self. All that mattered in this room was the depth of spiritual awakening and realization in this holy room in a way that no one could be judged by artificial and transitory values.

The flute ceased as the meditation ended. The flute player slowly put away his flute, and then rose from his knees. He slowly walked to the Pot with his back towards the others. He took off his hat, placed it gently next to his own feet, and slowly lifted the pot over his own head. The man then spoke "My Disciples. The bitter winter winds, day by day, have started to become slowly less biting as we approach spring, a time of action. We must do much to preserve our peace and harmony so that more may be able to learn the way to enlightenment. It is for this end that I seek volunteers to form an expedition and head south to the lakes of Pasha's Tears. Let us begin discussions with them so that we may form relations with them, and help guide them so that they too begin their path to spiritual awakening. We will approach them with open hearts and gifts of the body and spirit. Who among you will rise to this challenge?" All of the men began to rise from their stillness.

The Pot did not speak as it simply allowed a silence to fill the air. The men stood still without making a single noise. With a content nod, the Pot spoke once more "The Banner of the Left will handle this task. The inhabitants fight over the lakes as precious spawning pools, yet Attolia is blessed with sea access. See if that can be used as a tool to broker peace and alleviate their territorial needs. The Banner of the Right will continue to maintain the vigil to protect the faithful in their duties and escort me if any issues are to occur that require closer attention." The Pot lifted itself. The man paused for a moment before gently placing the Pot on the altar. The man picked up his hat and donned it once more. The left half of the room bowed and then began to quietly leave the altar room.

---

Summary/Orders:

1. Emissaries, missionaries, and traders are sent to open diplomatic relations, attempt to convert, and open trade with the tribes in Pasha's Tears. They bring with them trading access to Paradise Birds (Food, Exotic) and copper, which will hopefully tempt the tribes with luxuriousness. If the Pelagians seem open to joining the fold, then the diplomats are permitted to use Attolia's coast/sea access as a negotiation tool to alleviate their need for more spawning territory.

2. Attolian Society and Continental Pioneers work on clearing out/salvaging/excavating the remaining ruins of Attolia

 

[Twist]

​

"So the beast lies in there!?"

"Yes. And only we can slay it"

Rumours had abounded of a terrible creature roaming the farmlands of the great fortress, scaring away livestock and terrorising farmers and guards alike. With the population terrified, only two mighty warriors had stepped forward to deal with the menace, tracking it to it's hideout. Even with the blazing sun in the sky, no light seemed to enter the cavernous mouth of it's lair.

Sweat dripped from the massive muscles of the larger warrior as he tossed his long, luxurious hair backwards to peer into the dark shadows. But the darkness was all consuming and even his awesome sight could not pierce it.

With a grunt, he looked to his female companion, the sultry samurai adjusting her awe-striking armour for the battle ahead. "Are you ready?" boomed the bare chested behemoth, reaching for his colossal club behind his back, the very effort making his muscles strain.

With a slow nod, the well armed warrior woman reached for her own weapons, sliding the two finely crafted blades from her hips. "On three...."

"One..."

The ground shook, as the mighty man slid his sandals across the ground, heaving his weighty weapon before him.

"Two...."

Gripping her steel swords tightly, the azure coloured amazon stared unflinchingly into the mouth of hell, ready to strike.

"Three!"

With a roar, the pair charged with unparalleled strength and speed into the beast's lair. But even this unmatched duo of legendary champions was struck cold when a pair of blood red eyes of striking scarlet stared back from with the darkness. It's gaze was like ice in their veins, trying to tear away at their very souls so how could these almighty heroes not recoil at it's very presence. Within the hellish shadow the beast stirred, it's eyes now locked on to it's newfound prey. "Retreat!" screamed the horrified Heracles, as the malevolent creature charged at them.

--------------------------​

The weasel stepped into the warm sun from the barn, watching with curiosity as the two children ran away screaming from her, the little boy falling to the ground in his haste and his stick clattering down besides him. Feeling her tatty dress being pulled, the young girl turned, her two sharp stones dropping to the floor, and helped her fat friend from the ground, tugging with all her might as the weasel hopped towards them inquisitively. Covered in dirt and snow, the pair took off into the distance as fast their little legs could carry them.

The weasel tilted her head, watching them unflinchingly with her pitch black eyes as they went. The sounds of heavy footsteps behind her pulled her away from the curious children. Jumping to the side of the road, she now watched as a legion of creatures, in the thousands, marched by heading for the peaks of the twin mountains. Unperturbed by the startling sight, she took off in the opposite direction...


Orders

Kamaitachi: Consummates relations with the bordering Queen Forest.

Followers: 4K Bakemono, seek to explore the Pale Sisters, looking for new resources, treasures or secrets.

 

[Beckoncall]

Auriel Maza :

The Chiropterans labored tirelessly for Hajova, but building apiaries and rustling bees did not come naturally to these mainly nocturnal creatures. Many mishaps were had, many chiropterans were disrupted by numerous stings. But prevail they did, and the defensive platforms were built, and the defense-hives were evenly distributed among them.
(Non-sacred Chiropterans are disrupted, and cannot march/fly until turn 2) -- but their project was a success, and security and sentry ability of the home province is raised considerably.

As for The searching of plants, indeed it was difficult for the season -- but their goddess in her wisdom knew there were things to find... The populace knew most plants were not in bloom or showing themselves, but on the rim of the crater a discovery was made... certain trees that had frozen solid around the lip of the goddess' crater exposed to the freezing magical mist of the crater's waterfalls -- revealed a meta-natural phenomenon -- the forming of "Crystalwoods" -- Trees converted thusly did not survive the transformation, but became magical sources of wood and ice, that refused to melt even in much warmer environments -- rising temperatures simply gave them the properties of warm but unmelting ice crystals. It was not a renewable resource, but Hajova gains 2 units of Crystalwood... which all marvelled at what the applications for such a special material could have. Could it make interesting magical equipment? Powerful lenses? A valuable trade good? Time would tell...

 

[Crocodile]

The Death of Hatred
First Public Prophecy of the Allesvasser

The Great Cycle of Hatred has reached a point of ending. The great Winterborn Lord, Trisde'llevalean of Qualatiol, who uses his power to chain the Elven peoples to Hatred shall fall. The cycle of Hatred has gone long, fueled by the blood of Elves and Men. Yet it is those like this Great Lord who perpetuate the cycle. Know that Hatred has wrought its own downfall for the Stars do speak and declare that the Great Trisde'llevalean will falter. His wrath has spun nothing but building contempt and exhaustion. He has invited his own failure.

The Elven people will turn from Hatred as the Lord falls. Some may try to cling to it in desperation. Others will learn and grow away from it, walking into a new age and opportunity for them. All will be free of his chains, his will and endless fury towards those not of his kind. The time of old feuds is coming to a close and the Elven peoples must step forward into new views. Some may be grim, some may be joyous, but all will be free to walk their OWN PATH, unfettered by the threat of dominance from one who has lived past the point Hatred.

Know that there are those who will embrace you. That HOPE is not dead. Break the chains of FEAR and HATED. Be free and step forth into you own wills for He who binds you to his through sheer force of power will not long remain to do so. A great change is upon us all and Hatred can no longer be the fuel of survival. It is a poison and it has poisoned the heart of Trisde'llevalean to the point that his end is upon him.

So speaks the Allesvasser
Watcher of the Stars
Speaker of Stone
Voice of the Waters of Life​

 

[Beckoncall]

Heyitsjiwon :

1. Emissaries, missionaries, and traders are sent to open diplomatic relations, attempt to convert, and open trade with the tribes in Pasha's Tears. They bring with them trading access to Paradise Birds (Food, Exotic) and copper, which will hopefully tempt the tribes with luxuriousness. If the Pelagians seem open to joining the fold, then the diplomats are permitted to use Attolia's coast/sea access as a negotiation tool to alleviate their need for more spawning territory.

The barbarians seemed to want the pelagians out of the province, and happily accepted gifts of copper and birds. The Pelagians explained they spawn in fresh water and during the warmer months they go to feed and grow in the seas. The pelagians, using natural weapons made of coral and shells, were particularly attracted to Copper, and likewise wanted the barbarians gone as they sometimes stole their "Caviar" -- though violence between the two peoples so far had been light, as populations grew it would doubtless escalate. The pot could decisively side with one or the other or try to continue to negotiate an unsteady peace. The barbarians for birds and copper were willing to trade horses, which they used for both labor and war.

"The Horned Deer clan will control Pasha's tears, armored ones -- be warned of that, but for now your trade is welcome" Said the barbarians.

"We need this province to breed, priests of your pretender... intercede on our behalfs and exile the humans and we shall join your faith" said the Pelagian Shamans.

This would be an interesting knot to unravel!


2. Attolian Society and Continental Pioneers work on clearing out/salvaging/excavating the remaining ruins of Attolia

So much was destroyed in attolia, but one great relic was found intact under a devastated temple. A mirror that weren't for enchantments, would surely have been shattered. This enabled, when used by a pretender, to see the likely outcome of a declared action before it was committed to. In addition to this, an assortment of magical weapons and shields were found in a devastated museum... 1 unit of enchanted swords and shields was found, enough to equip 1-2k troops.

 

[Beckoncall]

Twist :

in the high peaks followers of Kamaitachi found a broken skull in a devastated shattered patch of black ice in the middle of a frozen lake. All around the skull shards of blue fire laid oddly like glass... this was the corpse of a minor demigod or pretender that had been shattered by the elves, it seemed. The shards were collected and taken to the treasury, the broken skull was given to Kamaitachi as an possible magic item... the skull whispered you see... in languages her agents could not understand.

Faith gains Dark Tutor (magic item) if desired, or the item can be sold off for 1 wealth.

Faith gains 1 unit of FROZEN FLAMES -- which can be kept as a trade good, have a function created for it, or it can be converted into 2d4 fire OR water sparks.

 

[Heyitsjiwon]

​

The Pot sat in the altar room, flanked by rows of Kriegans in their religious garb. A small red glowing light seemed to circle each the Pot and two others in the room, the Kahan of the Right Banner and the Kahan of the Left Banner. Silence filled the room as not a word was spoken nor a sound emitted. That is until a knock was heard from the entrance to the altar room. "Enlightened One, your guests have arrived." a voice said as the doors opened. "Presenting, the Pelagian Elder Shaman, Velas and Chieftain of the Horned Deer Clan, Arminius." Two humanoids then entered the altar room with wide eyes as they looked around at the odd scene of seeing rows of masked men. The Pelagian appeared to be past his physical prime, yet the way he carried himself spoke wisdom as he quickly collected his senses and looked forward at the Pot without gawking. The human Chieftain on the other hand continued to look around the altar room for a moment before he stopped to look at the Pot. Several colorful feathers seemed to decorate his hat, a sign that the chieftain already took part in the luxuries that Attolia provided.

The two walked closer towards the Improbable Pot before stopping 10 paces in front of the Pot. They both took a knee and lowered their heads in deference to the Pot. "Hail, Enlightened One. We have arrived as promised to present ourselves as leaders and representatives of our peoples. May we serve your holiness well!" The Pelagian spoke with a measure of circumstance. It was clear that the Pelagian was used to such things, though his experience as a shaman likely well prepared him for such an event. "Aye! Here we are." The Chieftain replied in agreement. It was rather unusual for Arminius who was rather straightforward and loud to be playing second fiddle and letting someone else speak first on his behalf, but to the Pot it merely seemed as if the Chieftain was a bit overwhelmed with all these formalities.

A booming voice emitted from the Pot "Welcome, out newest disciples. We are blessed and gracious that you have come to join us. We have summoned you both to discuss matters now that our futures are entwined. The Sons of Attolia are a rather mercantile people, used to sailing the seas and participating in markets around the world. Our circumstances have lead us to believe that it would be wise to open our markets once more and actively participate in commerce. What fortunes are we able to bring to our markets?" It was with this opening that the Chieftain spoke "Horses! The Horned Deer Clan are master horsemen. People across the continent will seek our swift steads, though of course we should keep the swiftest for ourselves." The Pelagian replied "The Pelagian tribes offer our coral and shells that we use to craft most of our tools and weapons, though I suppose most would purchase them for their beauty or other reasons." The Pot replied "Very well, whatever it is that we may provide for our collective fortunes and prosperity is welcomed. Let all know that we offer Paradise Birds, Copper, Coral and Shells, and Horses for trade so that they may approach us with offers to trade and barter. May our ships be filled with fortune and opportunities."

 

[Obsidian]

Goddess of the Wilds
~ Winter, 3rd Quarter ~
​

• A Kitsune Rests
• The Call to War
• A Terrible Loss

• 
  The courtyard of the castle is always so quiet in the middle of winter. The bitter cold has forced most plants to recede, the trees dark and dormant as they await the Season of Rebirth, whilst many of the small woodland creatures normally seen about the castle gardens now sleep soundly in their burrows, hibernating through this season of snow and ice. The Goddess' children, the Divine Messengers, may not hibernate themselves but they ward against the cold like any other creature, keeping themselves safe and warm behind the walls of their great ironwood castle.
  
  The peaceful quiet of the castle gardens is momentarily broken by a sudden poof of something landing upon the ground. Of course, the Goddess soon reveals herself, a great kitsune of white fur and red markings, as tall as a horse in body and twice as long. Her nine long and fluffy tails sprawl across the crisp, freshly fallen snow as she herself gives out a great huff, her hot breath kicking up snowflakes from the ground while melting most others. And she lies there, resting. The Kitsune is not used to facing foes of that strength, and to think something of that might managed to grow so close to her realm, the noble forces of nature being twisted to create such obscenities. It is all quite sickening.
  
  The Kitsune would not be able to rest in her place for long. Her appearance brings with it the attention of others, and here, in the heart of her realm, it brings the attentions of her children. Foxes soon appear from the castle, and they joyously make their way over to their mother. Including the young kits, who excitedly rush over, their tiny little bodies clambering through the snowfall to see her. Sensing their presence, the Goddess would rise into a sitting position, watching with some amusement and most adoration for the young ones rushing to her.
  
  "Mother!" They would yip, finally reaching her, practically jumping with energy, "Is it true?! Did you destroy a horrible monster, and saved a whole town by yourself?!"
  
  "I heard it was a thousand, thousand, thousand paws high! And breathed clouds of death that could wipe out forests! And led, like, a huge horde of other monsters too! Is that all true?!"
  
  "My darlings." The Goddess spoke, her heart swelling to see them, and she could not help but stoop down her head to nuzzle with them, "I have missed you all so much."
  
  By this point, the other, more adult foxes arrived, along with the Goddess' eldest son, Hiro. Seeing him arrive, the Kitsune rose her head back up from the little ones, and cast her serene gaze down upon her son. "Hiro, I am so glad to see you here safe. Are you alright? Did that monster harm you?"
  
  "No, Mother, I escaped quite easily." Hiro tells her with a warm tone, "You could have told me what you were planning to do. I could have stayed and helped you."
  
  "I could have, yes. But that creature could not have known of my presence. Even just the slightest inkling from you could have tipped it off. Besides, if you truly knew that I was there, you may not have spoken as you did. Of peace and wisdom. It may not have understood either one, but I am so proud of you for trying."
  
  "Now, I must take my leave and--" The Goddess would speak, only for her words to raise a chorous of whines at her decree.
  
  "You're leaving again?!" One of the little ones complains, "You're always leaving, Mother! Can't you stay with us just this once?!"
  
  The Kitsune's heart cannot help but shatter at such a complaint, hurting her in ways the little one could never understand. What mother leaves her children, after all? Shame grips her like an icy cold vice over her heart, forcing her gaze away, the pain sinking into her chest like a ravenous parasite, almost taking her breath away. But she knows her children are hurting too. Many understand, of course. But every now and then, the unvarnished truth of everyone's feeling surfaces, this time within the words of a little one.
  
  "Laros, that's enough!" Hiro barks harshly at the young kit, "You know our Mother has many duties! You will not--!"
  
  "Hiro!" The Goddess speaks, raising her voice just a touch, but her commanding tone is all that is needed for everyone to fall silent. The Kitsune looks back to her children, all of them, their little faces looking up at her in mixed expressions of unease. How much she wishes she could be here with them all the time, just her and her children, without worry or care for anything else. But that is not a luxury she can indulge in today. Maybe one day, maybe when all things have been set right in the world, finally then she can be the Mother her children truly deserve. At last, after long moments to tense silence, the Goddess speaks. First to Hiro, her voice pained. "Please, enough, Hiro. Laros did not mean any harm. He simply speaks honestly in his innocence. Do not be so hard on him."
  
  "I shall stay." The Goddess relents, unable to resist her motherly call to home, "For as long as I can. I will need rest, and there is no rest better had than at home, among my beloved children."
  
  Rising to her paws, the Goddess would turn back to her castle, her home. Asphodel is a still a concern, one the Goddess could never forget, but the evil pretender suffered a great blow by losing the Blightbloom, and will take time for it to recover from such a loss. The Goddess can spare the time to be with her children.
  
  For just a little while.
  
  It's not too much to ask for.
  
  Right?
  
• 
  "Good people of Vaalville," A Druid declares in the towns centre, people all around turning from their work to look to the crier, ceasing their efforts to clear the town of rubble and repairing its defences to listen, "Our Goddess, in her infinite compassion, saw the plight of this town and sought to bring blessed salvation to all its people, by destroying the vile abomination known as the Blightbloom. The monster is indeed dead, and all here are now saved. But the danger is not yet over. The creature's master, monstrous Asphodel, yet lives, and for as long as it does live no one will know peace. The Goddess wishes to finally destroy this blight upon the land, by marching a Grand Army of the Wilds into the heartland of this wicked monster to slay it once and for all."
  
  "Our Goddess stood at your side in your most desperate hour," The Druid declares, "Who here will now step forward to stand at her side! Who here will rise to fight for your lands, your homes, and for your families! Every able-bodied man and woman is now needed! Join the Goddess' army, and fight for all Life!"
  
  ~~~
  
  With the horrors of the Blightbloom still fresh in the minds of the people, droves come from across the realm to join the Goddess' new army, and especially from Vaalville. A good start was made upon building her army, but more would be needed. There was no telling the strength of this evil pretender, and the Goddess must ensure she is as prepared as possible. Asphodel must be destroyed, lest it grow and spread and become an existential threat against all Life everywhere.
  
• 
  The Goddess felt it.
  
  The brutal murder. The senseless destruction.
  
  During a meal among her children, the Goddess would suddenly gasp and whine, the feeling of so many lives crying out in terror in a single moment, only for them all to soon fall silent. It was pain unlike she had felt in a long time. The Kitsune has seen much in her long life, and endured horrors, but the very worst of them all is the desolation of the natural world. So connected to Life is she that when a great, sudden imbalance to the Endless Cycle is made, it comes down upon Goddess like many tonnes of stone.
  
  "Are you alright, Mother?" Hiro's voice rings out in the now silent feasting hall, frowning with worry to see his mother pain, "What is wrong?"
  
  "I... I-I just felt..." The Goddess stammers out, her voice shaky, cracking under the weight of terrible realisation, "No.... How could...? So many lives.... So much lost...."
  
  Grounding herself, the Kitsune gathers her strength of will and uses it to shield herself from this disturbance, quickly lessening and vanishing the shock and pain as quickly as it came over her. Regaining her composure, the Goddess looks back to her children, looking weary and downcast.
  
  "Something terrible has happened. Untold destruction has been wrought. Many lives have ended, suddenly and violently. All living things purged at once. So many lives... have broken away from the Endless Cycle. They... they may never know Rebirth...."
  
  "I am sorry, my children." The Goddess rises, turning to leave with as much grace as she can muster, "I must rest."
  
  The Divine Messengers can only watch as she leaves, looking to each other once she was gone, all confused and disturbed by what they just witnessed. Whatever happened, it must have been terrible indeed to shake their Mother so much. The enemies of all Life are mounting and growing bolder, it seems. Asphodel may be their first enemy, but this today promises that it will not be the last.
  

 

[Pat]

The city-states of Berytos, Muurdaan, and Attolia enter into a free trade pact to better facilitate the spread and flow of commerce throughout the local channel region of the Westerlands continent. The following goods and resources are transported to their market exchange...

Berytos​

Fish (duplicate),
Food (duplicate),
Wine,
Alchemical catalysts,
Amber,
Pearls,
Silver,
Iron.

Muurdaan​

Black corn,
Salt,
Sand,
Stone.

Attolia​

Fish (duplicate),
Food (duplicate),
Paradise birds,
Horses,
Coral,
Shells,
Copper.

 

[Auriel Maza]

The Time of Thought is Over
Winter 1, Turn 2



[Jovecc Mires] - [Audio Track]

Part 1, A: Parley Vous? Edited from Discord for improved writing quality
​

Seven minutes, no more or less. Hajova laid before both King Ochirluaxl and Queen Uiluilmia. Monarchs of their respective sides, each in a bloody feud with the other. Peace? Maybe not even the faintest glimmer. Yet, Hajova seeks to preserve the lives of the tribes for she knows that the Death cycle of the Infinite Cycle is far full of energy. So, she arrives in the Jovecc Mires with an escort to parlay with the monarchs in a hope to resolve the tension between them and wield their support against the Queen of Funerals, Ephine.

Hajova speaks first, floating upon her unsullied white cushion. Radiating purity. She allows both monarchs to comfort themselves in seating before giving her powerful speech:

"Greetings, my appreciation for both spreads forth for ceasing bloodshed in that speaking may occur. I understand that abundant troubles spread upon you both, and while many believe cooperation amongst you is foolish, my many eyes see differently. You both are in a conflict that yields no rewards to either; simple loss of life, resources, and great potential. You exhaust your strength when death looms not so far. The Queen of funerals will march upon you soon; death will come for you all if you do not come with me. I did not come to simply give a warning. I offer you love, acceptance, and fair judgment for both your peoples. All races are equal in my eyes. Both in the living and when they join me in the realm of spirits. I come with shelter, food, and water. I come to heal your lands and bring back animals for hunting. And I come to grant absolution to the spirits of your ancestors as is my promise to all who take me as their teotl. With all that I know and offer, may you Uiluilmia or you Ochirluaxl have questions or concerns for me?"

​

Uiluilmia speaks first, but the lizard king nods in agreement throughout... "each of us owes a deep debt in blood to the other, Pretender. We cannot simply put out the fires in the hearts of aggrieved mothers, vengeful sons, and families bend on revenge. This is no longer the day of the old order... It has been shown that goblin and lizardman cannot agree."

​

"I understand the troubles you have will create skepticism and concern with your leadership. I, with a child myself, understand those concerns. However, neither of you will survive the onslaught of the Queen of funerals. She will come in spring and use the vast energies she has collected to wipe you clean. Is this blood debt worth damning your future? Is the past so important that you would throw away tomorrow? Would you want to throw away the lives of your children for petty revenge? A revenge that will only spark more? This blood debt will never truly end until you recognize it only destroys you and accomplishes nothing and then cease hostilities. I offer salvation from the shadow of death that awaits you. All you must do is put everything aside and allow me to show you the love and compassion for which I have for all creatures. To show you the great potential I see, and the futures of victory that await us. In the face of this world's chaos, unity is our strength. And with me, all of these things are and will be plentiful."

The lizard king speaks, with your time up... "We had a pretender once before, a god of laws and orders that kept the peace, dead, by elves. What makes you proof to godly assassins, what makes your protection more complete? Then the goblin queen speaks, in turn -- "And what do you know of this lady of graves, and how do you know they mean us harm?"

Hajova nods, "The elven lord that sent those champions has been enthralled by one of my esteemed allies. The elves are in disarray and seeking to make peace with the other races. And for the assassins, simple. The night is my shroud, my dominion. I see all; no invisibility or illusion can hide from my gaze. These assassins will have the folly that they can sneak up upon me when truly the tables shall turn upon them. They shall face the wrath of the spirits and shatter upon them. They shall not succeed. Not in thousands of years. For they have tried before, hundreds before your time, and it is self-evident that they failed." She pauses, "The Queen of funerals is damning herself by destroying her own province for these energies. Once the province is dead, she must move. The path she has laid will only lead a twisted crusade across the world. She herself already lost faith within some of her people, a rebellion is active as we speak. With sure resistance, her forces will rout and more will follow. In my current position, I am well prepared for her, ready to provide this resistance to have her people defect from her cause. Upon sight that another can challenge her in the field of magic and power, her people will see the truth and come to me."

Uiluilmia speaks up: "Ochirluaxl and I, I can tell, are both skeptical -- but in that we find a glimmer of hope, can we not, lizard king? For upon these promises, at least we can agree we have reservations. Perhaps our people are not so different? We hate the same, we question the same -- with guidance, perhaps we can see the same." .... Ochirluaxl frowns... and is pensive for a bit.

"Blood must be shed for my people. We demand war immediately on this "Lady of Graves" -- and my people will fight beside the goblins... the heat of hate shall be quenched in the blood of this pretender that seeks to do us harm... will you help lead our armies? Will you take the battle yourself to this godling, as we will take the fight to her troops?

Hajova smiles, letting the purple energies across her arch ignite, "Yes, I shall. Let us rid this world of this abomination. I will command your troops and crush her."

"If you lie," Ochirluaxl says, "then the goblins and the lizards will unite --to turn on you".

Uiluilmia smiles.

Soon after, preparations are made for an assault upon an hour after dusk the following night. Letters are sent to the generals of Ephine, causing some to defect to Hajova's cause.

(Continued in part B)



Part 1, B: Revelations
[Festerwoods/Barywood] - [Audio Track 2]
​

Hajova arrives precisely as she meant too. She hovers upon her cushion, watching as Ephine's forces cautiously approach the meeting place for which the letters detailed. Ephine raises a blue flag to begin parlay. Hajova, one of talking before violence, graciously accepts the opportunity. She approaches Ephine and her retainers in the center.

"Greetings, Ephine, I have come to heal these lands from the sickness that befalls them. I understand that you played a key role in this. I've also noticed some unrest among your ranks. Let us discuss these matters." Hajova speaks calmly with slow movements. She appears quite courageous despite the true visage of the fallen angel.

"You have tricked me already, how much of a fool do you take me for -- you are a mother of lies... what could we possibly speak about. Forces are awakening that your tiny cabal you call a pantheon cannot even comprehend. Stopping me is only throwing fuel on a fire that smolders beneath us all."

"Talk should always come before violence. And these forces, as the ages change, forces shall be unearthed. It is inevitable Ephine, that with change, comes flashbacks of the past. If what you say is true, then my allies and I shall rise to meet it. We have already made great accomplishments and wield diverse talent. While you may be concerned, I am not so. Though, I appreciate the forewarning of possible enemies." Hajova raised her four hands into a pointing position.

"The Kzer-Za are preparing to invade the continent. Let them put that warning on your tombstone."

Unfazed by Ephine's warnings and insults, Hajova continues, "Hmm, interesting. Then why destroy your province? Why disease your people? By destroying your lands, you only hand them victory before they could have earned it."

"Sparks. Sparks bend the rules. And to stop the Kzer-Za, we must BREAK them..... This is your last warning: I will not go quietly into that goodnight. The power I have amassed, if I cannot turn it on the Kzer-Za, will be loose on you. You will not have another chance to back down." Ephine opens her arms wide behind her forces, "These eight thousand skeletons here were once faithful worshippers. They sacrificed all so I might wield their might against the inevitable. You are but a barrier to this land's survival."

"Hmm, this land will not survive your methods Ephine. Take a moment to gaze at the grander picture. Yes, you gain power now. Yet, you lose so much in the long term. Do you know precisely when they shall come? Is it a looming threat? Time is of relevance here, and it would be best for all to consider it. If we have time, then we shall prepare. Ephine, you stand better with others than alone. You can end the suffering of your people right here, right now." Hajova clasps her right hands over her left hands, "No more need to die, and these dead can rest now. These lands can heal. And together, we stand far better than alone."

"Are you not here to take my lands? You wish to make an ally instead?" Ephine loses confidence within herself, and her eyes lose focus for a moment.

"Ephine, I am willing to work with others. For I am many condensed into one singular will, I have seen much. To further unite us against these Kzer-Za, the warring tribes in the south have required of me to cease the threat that lays upon them from your actions. And to end the war between themselves, they desire bloodshed to cease the hatred among themselves. Proclaim to them that you shall mean them no harm and allow your toughest warriors to prove their combative strength against them. Let them have their bloodshed and they too shall join us in the cause against the Kzer-Za. From this cause, we may challenge the powers that threaten us and grant greater prosperity to all of our peoples. Strength in unity is the apex strength can have. And from joining me, you shall gain the aid of 5 of the divine. Together with them, we stand well against the Kzer-Za."

"Our paths do NOT align! Those goblins and lizarmen are not your pawns, they are NEXT TO FALL so that I might turn them into the sparks needed to face the ultimate threat. Take to your line, Wretch. It's time for your army to die."

"If you so wish, let us see if your forces will stand their ground with a goddess that has no faith in them for the letters were fake and you gave them no chance and assumed guilt," Hajova yells so that all of the Tauren may hear her.

The Tauren generals drop their great axes, and command their musicians and standard-bearers to drop their equipment. "TAUREN! THIS IS OUR CHANCE AT FREEDOM! THERE IS NO FAITH IN US, SO WE MUST NOT HAVE FAITH IN EPHINE!" Ephine, in those moments, had been denied. Her actions have shown the revelations to her followers that she was unjust to them, and that she will not change from her wrongdoings against them.

"I gave you a chance Ephine! Yet, you did not understand that I have the moral law. I shall end their suffering and heal their lands. All are the same in the eyes of the spirits. I shall treat them far better than you." Hajova yells. The black flames flicker out on Ephine's greatsword. She looks of sweat, widened eyes, of mortification of her soul. Ordering her skeletons forth, loyal as they always be, Hajova uses one word of power against Ephine.... ENTHRALL

Ephine speaks "I cannot resist you. My following has turned on me, and faith in me dies with it... but there is one last thing I can do to help you... here are twelve nature sparks and six death sparks. All I have drained from the province so that the Kzer-Za might be slain. Take my power, and lead my people to victory." With those words, she shatters in a million pieces of glass before they blip from existence.

"You saw the truth in the end. May your spirit or whatever remains rest peacefully." Hajova turns her gaze towards the Tauren, "These lands shall no longer be named the Festerwoods. What name would you, Tauren, have for these lands? From your decision, these lands shall be named."

"Braywood" The general who led the defection cried from the back.

Hajova, quick to respond to leadership, "Then let these lands be known as Braywood! Any Object?" A hollar among the Tauren erupts. It seems that the name will be discussed long after today. Nevertheless, Hajova nodded. She will wait for another time to discuss the name, allow the Tauren time to relax and rediscover as their lands blossom as never seen before. Hajova kept her promise to the Tauren, as all of her closest followers knew would come. In those moments, the goblins and lizardfolk smashed and laid to rest the undead that remained. Hajova remained on the scene long after others have departed. She looked up upon the night sky.

"Maybe others will be different." Moments after, a chiropteran comes and collects the sword and armor of Ephine. Hajova looks upon the armor and denotes them as the Sword of Funeral Passage and the Armor of Graves.

[Witch-Haven] - [Audio Track 3]

Part 2: Continued Development - Alchemy and Magic Workshop
​

Olo stayed behind, tending to Hajova's next project. He knew full well that Hajova never seemed to run out of ideas. His wings appreciated that bees were not involved this time, yet they trembled at the thought of future ideas. Hajova allocated enough to complete the project during the assault, though, the rest would come shortly and help complete the project as no true combat took place. Olo smiled with contentment with Hajova's speaking ability. He knew full well of that. He was one of her children after all, or as the spirits say, he might still be. Hajova's intentions never appeared with any sort of clarity, so for Olo, her plans for him were anyone's guess. Though, he hopes for the sake of one whose appearance he faintly remembers from long-distance looks and a portrait inside his mind from three years ago. Oh, how he hopes to see them one day. His wings flap with excitement and a little indifference that continued to bubble constantly. However, time stopped for none, and Olo wanted to impress his Teotl. He set out to collect the vast herbs and other ingredients to stock the new Alchemical and magical workshop that he would spend his life in when not building amongst the trees. Hajova would not chain him to it; he'd personally beat her to it. Why? Olo is the strange chiropteran that smells plants a little too vigorously with a sudden knowledge of the aftermath. Though, these two events have wild intermissions. Nothing to top Takuma's sober partying and sweet talking of course. Olo, drunk as can be, could never top that. Though, Olo carried a niche for knowledge and the constitution to brave his youthful acquisition of such. He, knowing full well what works, carried the full weight of creative freedom from Hajova. From this detail, he wondered if Hajova changed her mind or her mood. Though, he never dwelled on it too long. That purple flower near the crater smelled rad, and he could see little fairies dancing on top of his head, despite they be eaten into extinction by Witch-Haven's native Giant spider population that made a peaceful existence with Hajova. Despite, Olo's wild habits. He and the others finished the project on time with a little flair here and there.

​

TLDR: Olo (and crew) builds a building for discovering and making magical and alchemical concepts and items. Olo also tends to sniff things way too much.

Roll: 15


[Witch-Haven Hold] - [Audio Track 4]

Part 3: Takuma's Training
​

At the center of the crater lake, the shrine to Hajova shimmered brightly in the moonlight. The floor of the shrine was polished and cleaned; orbs of red, green, and purple energy congregated around the edge of the platform. The stars gleamed above with the faint scent of blackberries slipping between the starlight and the ground, leaving a haze for the energy to dance and project. A tall, human figure stood in a wide stance at the center of the shrine, bare across the body spare a loincloth for decency and a blindfold. The energy spread like fibers over the air surrounding him, easing in speed before gently moving into his body. His skin radiated the colors as the energy collected inside of him. Whooshes of branches float by as spirits of the trees approached. A spark of light dawns as a violet, spectral sword materializes within his hand. He clutched the sword with wonder as his blue eyes tingled in its light. He swung the sword as if he might prove it an illusion. The sword struck the shrine floor with a spectral sasczh and nothing more. Yet, it retaliated against the squeezing of his hand, feeling wood, leather, and a ting of metal. None of these things it was, yet despite his best efforts to understand, it was. Wisps gathered as they created a strong mist, blocking sightlines to the shrine. A bright green, spirit entered through the mist, approaching Takuma and placing a hand on his forehead.

"Place yourself in ease. None may witness these events. Be honest and true as we temper you for the daylight of battles to come." The spirit whisked and whooshed as it disconnected with Takuma, shifting into a bland soldier with sword in hand. The spirit called out in this form, "Test for the skill with the sword, a dueling weapon that will become useful with increased mastery. Forth, I come to strike, prepare thyself and hold none within yourself. Harm cannot truly come to me within her Absolution." The spirit cast a blade, spinning into hand from the air above the spectral soldier. Takuma breathed deep as the soldier whisked his sword in a large slash, raising his arms to form the blades together. Takuma slid his body behind the soldier, letting the sword slide and reach for the shoulder. He planted his feet one on the ground and one on the side, quickly forming an upward swirl to stagger the soldier. Precisely in time, the soldier blocked Takuma's slapdash push, holding firm. He stepped back, letting his weight briefly bring Takuma's sword towards him before suddenly pushing forward, staggering Takuma to the ground. The specter raised the sword overhead, aligning it with the moon's downward gaze of light. The sasczh of the tip clanging against the stone echoed briefly before a swift sweep to stand pushed the sword back up into the soldier's hands.

The clang and zing of blades carried on with parries, groundings, and the like. Slapdash swings and meager pushes from Takuma eventually led the spirit to wield its blade against his neck. Upon this, the blades dispersed and the soldier faded into mist, leaving the spirit in its wake. Takuma rolled over onto his back, panting, with glistening sweat flooding from his skin. His mouth opened wide and his hands held against his forehead. A quarterstaff materialized beside him, beckoning with velvet energy.

"Done we are not, energy you hold. Energy to be expended." The spirit manifested into an ancient monk, wielding a quarterstaff as well. Takuma slowly drifted up before he coughed and wielded the quarterstaff. His body twitched slightly, with his knees bending slightly. As before, the spirit rushed him, and despite his tired body, he swiftly blocked the advance, pushing the lower end of the staff towards the spirit. In a predictable fashion, Takuma pushed with the familiar weapon, causing the specter to hook Takuma's legs. Takuma used the quarterstaff to save his balance and push off the specter. Panting, Takuma charges into a foray of parries and jumps as the specter continues to block and counterattack against his legs. Minutes pass and the spirit whacks the spectral staff against Takuma's head. His blue eyes close and he almost slams against the stone floor. The spirit caught him with telekinetic force, gliding him to lay flat on the floor. The spirit unleashed a high-pitched sound, one not heard by the human ear to the east. A minute passes before a flap of wings and a Chiropteran graces the shrine with its presence.

"Rough time for Takuma, he lasted longer than I thought. Spirit, I will care for him." The Chiropteran spoke.

The spirit reverted, leaving the shrine. Takuma's legs drifted down as wings flapped, letting the shrine shrink in view behind them. An elegant, treehouse laid ahead with attention to detail in each little crevice surrounding them. Warm, with a fire, the Chiropteran laid Takuma in bed, letting his iridescent skin dim and return to normal.

"Well, the spirit temper will fade soon enough, and these 'wounds' will suddenly fade from you. Guess there's no need to treat you. Wish we understood better what the process does, but our teotl keeps her secrets. So much trust within you, but not in me, I wanted to prove to her that I could be up to the task. But, we both know how that went. I know you can't hear me, but I think it helps to speak into the wind anyway... Here, have this little figurine you found when we were pups. At least you will know it was me. We normally are not to answer that call, but I decided not to care about that anyway." The Chiropteran flew out of the dwelling, fading into the prevailing mist of the falling water.



The next night, Hajova returned to Witch-Haven. She approached the shrine with Takuma beginning his studies. She approached him, having one of the Chiropterans gift the Sword of Blackfire and the Suit of full Blackplate to him. Takuma scanned across both pieces of equipment. He looked towards Hajova's mask in somewhat disbelief.

"Mother, I suppose you received these from Ephine?" Takuma waved the sword, caring not to strike the Chiropteran. He wielded it with a shard of grace, a mote of his future skill.

Hajova nodded, "Yes, my child. These are my gifts for you. Continue to use the spectral weapons for now, but I will make arrangements for you to use this blade on dummies and eventually true enemies. The armor you will naturally acclimate as you don and wear it."

Takuma nodded, "Thank you Mother, I am glad everything went well. Success has already reached us, and we are excited to welcome our new Kinomi. I hope everything bodes well for the integration."

Hajova smiles, "Yes, it will take time, but I know that we shall share our differences and become one people. One not dependent on one's origin." Takuma gives her a hug, before returning to his scrolls and leather books inside his treehouse.

TLDR: Training Session for Takuma to train him up to be a hero/sub-character. He will use the new Sword of Blackfire (Sword of Funeral Passage) and Suit of full Blackplate (Armor of Graves).

Roll: 11

Beckoncall​

 

[Obsidian]

Wild Celebrations
~ Winter, 4th Quarter ~
​

• Asphodel is Dead!
• A Prosperous Start
• Foundations of a Kingdom

• 
  All across the Goddess' realms, cheering and jubilation can be heard. Whether it be from the depths of the great and beautiful Black Forest, across the rural stretches of villages and farmsteads within the Royal Forest, or behind the high walls of the city of Vaalville. The people pour out into the streets even in the cold of winter, food and wine and sweet treats are laid upon long buffet tables to be sampled by any and all, the air filled with music and dancing and the joyful laughter of a once tyrannised people. And in it all, of course, there is only one Goddess that they praise. The Goddess that brought not only victory without loss, but everlasting peace, security, and prosperity for all.
  
  For the Goddess in question, she of course returned home to the Royal Forest, for, in this time of great rejoicing, how could she possibly stay away? Upon the great branches of the Ironwood trees she perches, lazily looking down upon the castle courtyard to gleefully watch her beloved children, whether they be the little ones that play and roughhouse on the snowy grass of the castle gardens, or whether they be her adult children who gather and celebrate together in their hundreds, surrounded by the bounty of their wilds. Even from up here, the Goddess can hear her children. But then, she can always hear them.
  
  "How better could matters have gone?" One of the Divine Messengers, a vixen, speaks to her surrounding sibling, "Two battles fought, two victories secured, and one false God returned to the Earth; all without so much as a single loss to our own side. There is no other God in all the world that can make such a boast! Truly, ours is the beginnings of a Golden Age."
  
  "And yet, our Mother wishes only for peace across the Peninsula." One tod speaks up, "While this victory over Asphodel is to be celebrated, we cannot forget that, like Asphodel, there will be other pretenders out there that will make war against us. We cannot rest on our laurels. We have to build and spread, bigger and stronger, until none could dare to challenge our might."
  
  "Might?" Another tod scoffed, "It was not might that brought us this victory, but cunning. Our Mother proved what is truly superior. Asphodel had legions, armies that so vastly outnumbered our own that we would have faced certain doom if we fought them in open battle, and yet such 'might' now lies rotting upon the ground across Fair Gardens, being returned to the Earth as we speak. Such a monumental victory achieved with nothing more than cunning."
  
  "Why limit ourselves to just one strategy?" The vixen chuckled, "Whether it be by cunning or might, with our Mother's guidance, we can only succeed."
  
  The Goddess cannot help but be heartened by her children's confidence in her, yet she knows she did not face Asphodel alone. That strange God from the West did much of the work. The Kitsune simply finished the job. And, on some level, she even feels responsible for allowing Asphodel to rise in the first place. If the Goddess had acted just a few decades ago, before Asphodel ever arose, all of the death and destruction that false God caused would never have happened. While Asphodel wrought devastation upon Vaal, massacred the great city's inhabitance, the Kitsune prowled through the depths of her small forest, willfully ignoring what lay in the wider world. And Asphodel was the result. Asphodel was the result of her deliberate isolation. She knows this, and she cannot help but feel responsible. But she will not make that mistake again, she vows. The Goddess will not ignore the troubles of the wider world any longer. She cannot afford to, and nor can the natural world.
  
  Upon the branches of the Ironwood tree, the Goddess sighs, her silent vow sinking into her beating heart, while she watches her children enjoy their joyous celebrations.
  
• 
  The heavy thump of a trunk upon wooden flooring thunders in all directions. "That is the last one." A refined voice spoke, coming from a perfumed man of fine fashion tastes, smiling sleezily upon the young maiden before him, "Thank you again for your fabulous business, my dear. I have clients across the great continents that will simply love your fine wares."
  
  The young maiden smiles genuinely, in true politeness, but keeps her distance. Not that the greasy merchant took the hint. But as soon as the merchant took one step closer to her, the surrounding men, largely ignored by the merchant, took a step toward him. And in that moment, he very much did notice them. Seemingly human men, each one young in years, but each stood covered in heavy full plate armour made from polished dryadwood. Longswords at their sides, and elven bows upon their backs. The merchant's grin quickly faded before the young maiden's heavily armed retinue, unable to stop herself from chuckling.
  
  "My brothers," She explained, "They are quite protective, you see. Thank you again for your business, sir, but now it is time for you to leave."
  
  The merchant certainly did not argue. He turned, ordered his men to depart, and off they went back to their ship within the harbour. Just as the ship in question started to sail away, Hiro appeared, he too in his human form, wearing his stylised, custom-made version of the heavy dryadwood armour, each of the wooden plates covered in artful depictions of nature and foxes, with, of course, an emblem of his Mother, the Kitsune, standing out boldly and proudly upon his breastplate.
  
  "Brother!" The maid greeted in cheer, giving her big brother a hug, before releasing him and turning his attention to the trunks with an excited gesture, "Look! Is it not impressive?"
  
  "Elinia, is this...?" Hiro would ask, looking to his sister, and she nodded vigorously. With a step toward them, Hiro reached for one trunk atop the others, and popped open the lid. As the light rushed in, Hiro's eyes widened. Gold. Jewels. Some sparkled with such brilliance that they were almost blinding to look at. Hiro could not believe his eyes. And just as swiftly as he opened the trunk, he snapped it down shut again.
  
  "Each trunk is the same." Elinia informed her brother with gentle glee, "We have done quite well. The merchant too seemed pleased. I expect we will be seeing more ships within our harbours. Now that they have had a taste, merchants from across the continent will be coming to our docks to buy more of our goods, and they will be bringing their own goods with them. With smart purchases, we can not only improve our prosperity, but our product line as well."
  
  "I see you have taken well to your new role, Treasurer." Hiro smiles to her, "It is good to see. Mother advised me well indeed by vouching for you."
  
  "This is only the beginning, brother." Elinia grins, "Today, it is ten trunks. But we will be seeing many more of them in the months and years ahead. So many, I hope, that we will hardly know what to do with it all."
  
  "Trust me, dear sister." Hiro grins in turn, "I'll always find ways to spend our wealth, no matter how great the fortunes you bring me."
  
  "Is that a challenge, dear brother?" Elinia laughs, "Then I eagerly accept."
  
• 
  The words of Sullen Plummet ring in the mind of the Goddess even now. '...an Empire that you must build.' The Goddess had aspirations of her own, to be sure. She has had centuries to ponder the future that she now acts to build with her children. A future pure and radiant, an everlasting and unspoiled Eden within which all life lives together in blessed harmony, a future free of the vile deprivations of the undead and their accursed necromantic masters. It is a future any true nature deity would crave with all their being to create, and now, by the grace of the High Irinsul herself, the Kitsune has been tasked with ushering in this very future. Not just for the Kitsune's one small realm in the corner of this continent, but for the whole world.
  
  The Goddess already planned for much, considered much, but this? To become the Avatar of the Wilds, a Goddess of Nature in more than just name, but in absolution. For creatures of the Wild, one and all, to bow before her as the undisputed ruler of all nature. Such a lofty, heady idea. One can get lost in the beautful dreams of such fantasies, overwhelmed by the urge to just surrender and be consumed by it. But the Kitsune must resist the urge to do so. "Wisdom," She reminds herself, taking a steady breath, "Always follow the path of Wisdom."
  
  ~~~
  
  With the death of Asphodel, many lands have fallen under the care of the Kitsune. Too many, in fact. Whereas the Goddess once patrolled her domain herself, her strength great enough to repel any would-be invader to the Royal Forest, now she must protect a much larger territory. And while her powers are great indeed, she cannot be everywhere at once.
  
  "Mother, it is time." Hiro told her, gently but firmly, "The Realm has grown too large, and you can no longer protect it all yourself. I know you worry for us, but many of us are centuries old now, and we have long learned to fight and defend our lands together. Please, Mother, you must step back and allow us to do your work in your place. Have faith in us. Trust us. We can do it, and we want to do it."
  
  That conversation was held days after the celebrations over Asphodel's death. And, slowly, reluctantly, and in no small measure of exhaustion, the Goddess finally agreed. She stepped back, and Hiro stepped forward. While he was Patriarch for a long time, never before did the title mean as much as it does now. Hiro's no longer the big brother of a very large family, but the head of a major religion and the mortal ruler of an ascendant nation. He has land. He has citizens. And he has an army, backed and funded by a growing economy. Whatever pretence of being a small, simple provincial realm that may remain, must now be swept away.
  
  ~~~
  
  Vaalville. As the only town within the realm, small and beaten down though it may be, it is currently the only place suitable enough to be used as a temporary capital. Of course, Vaalville will not do as the true capital city, not even remotely. Vaalville was chosen in haste by the survivors of Vaal as a last stand against Asphodel. A last stand they were destined to lose, before the Goddess appeared and brought them salvation. Now with Asphodel dead, and the purpose of the town is now lost, and the issues with the town are becoming quite glaring.
  
  "Sure, it has fortifications, but the town is so badly located it is not even funny." Neros comments with a snarky tone, "We cannot stay here. If we fought a serious war against a powerful nation, one that managed to invade our territory, this position would be easily overrun. We must look to a better location."
  
  "What about Vaal?" Seros suggests, "It was a great city once, perhaps it can be again. From what remains of the city, it was very impressively built; strong fortifications with high walls and higher towers, layered and segmented defence, and the city was positoned in a prime, defensive location as well. If we could rebuild the city, it would be a most worthy capital."
  
  "Perhaps, but do you know how much that would cost?" Elinia, the newly appointed Treasurer, chimes in, "The expense would be astronomical, not to mention that we have been cannibalising the city ruins for its stone resources. We would need to find a new source of purestone to replace everything we have scavenged, as well as repair the rest of the city. We could use inferior stone, sure, but would that not be counterintuitive to your intended purpose of building a 'worthy capital?'"
  
  "My suggestion would be to make use of an existing great city." Elinia offers, looking to Hiro with a smile, before pointing to the coast of the peninsula to the north west, "Ubar. It is a metropolis unequal across the continent. If there was to ever be a worthy capital for our nation, it would be Ubar. I know the name is ugly, but we can always change it. Once we take Ubar, we can proclaim it as our capital, and as a long established city it would already have much of the connections, renown, and infrustructure in place that we would need for a capital city. A much cheaper, easier, and effective solution."
  
  "Except that you forgot one thing, dear sister." Neros growls mockingly, "Ubar is indeed a great city. And great cities are accompanied by great armies. Will the current ruler of Ubar politely step down and yield his city and throne to us, if we ask him real nice? I don't expect that he would. Anyone would be mad to do so. Taking Ubar would mean taking it by force. Which might ruin all those connections and renown and infrustructure you are so fond of, sister."
  
  "Enough." Hiro finally speaks up, "For now, the topic of a capital is a moot point. There is still much to do, and much territory to take, before this discussion can go on any further. The beginnings of a nation are starting to form, true, but we have a long way to go before a nation will finally be born. We will continue to grow, become stronger, and when the time is right, then and only then will be declare ourselves to the rest of the world."
  

 

[Crocodile]

An Era of Bone
Second Public Prophecy of the Allesvasser

The Bones call to the men of the Seven Gates, for thy time in those lands has come to pass. Winter flows as summer goes and the Cavefolk of the Gates do retreat to other lands. The cycle of return and departure has made you know the value of time and patience. The cycle though has been endured long enough for the Cavefolk. A great Lord of Bone rises in the South, who would take you unto himself and embrace you in lands of great bounty once held by Dead Hands. The winters of the Gates will not falter and you people have endured much in their ways, yet a time of prosperity is upon you and yours.

The Cavefolk will know new wealth if they move to lands more welcoming to them without the fear of the biting Winter. Go forth and claims these new lands, knowing they are yours if you take the Lord of Bone to heart as your patron. A greater bounty still will befall these lands and the Cavefolk shall prosper beyond what they could ever hope to hold. Yet this shall only come to pass if the folks head the words of the stars, earth and water. This is no command but the offer of a future that has been seen in the Beyond where fate meets prophecy.

Take up they destiny and become more than you were. The Seven Gates has served the Cavefollk well but the Bonefields now call, liberated from terrible power and in the hands of one deserving of their ownership. Power ebbs and flows but these lands will yield much to the Cavefolk should the take up their homes there, free of the Winter that cages you from living in a single land year round. The choice remains theirs along but the flow of forces Beyond has shown clearly something that cannot be kept silent. Embrace the Era of Bone and Rejoing. Reject the Era of Bone and know mistfortune.

So speaks the Allesvasser
Watcher of the Stars
Speaker of Stone
Voice of the Waters of Life​

 

[Beckoncall]

Auriel Maza :

THE ALCHEMISTS:

Olo, vanquished with their efforts, wraps themselves tight in their wings in the canopy above the Alchemy Lab. Sweet success to be followed by sweet oblivion of rest...

Your Alchemical plant can produce THREE preparations right now -- you can increase number and quality by acquiring more plants and magical goods at market (when we're specifying buying) But for now you have:
1) Heroic Brew: Lethal to the common being (but still effective!) this potion can be used to give a normal being a burst of power or a character/exceptional being a true boost that can be relatively safely consumed. Has: (Growth 2 + Haste) when drunk. You can give these potions to troops for 1 wealth per 2k people (though non-sacreds will suffer greatly after the effects wear off) and you may freely give these potions to characters/heroes/notables without cost.
2) Liquid Sacred: A very rare concoction that can give regular troops sacred blessings for 3 rounds. Outragously expensive to make, on a case by case basis.
3) Healing potions: Medicinal plants give a boost of health to all your followers -- (HP +2) -- add this to your blessings (or have me do it if it's messy to add) -- also, you may proclaim and RP that health in your provinces goes up nation-wide.

This building may be improved with additional commodities or wealth.

TAKUMA:

Takuma gains status as a hero character. His blade of blackfire helps bypass magical resistance, and is Fire (10). His Plate of Blackmetal gives him heavy armor at medium armor encumberance, and gives him +2 to one save die in physical combat, +4 if the save is against a spell.

 

[Trektek]

Born again. That was the way to describe it. At least the way that he would describe it. A second life, one that did not have an end, at least certainly not a natural one. An end that could only come about from violence. It was a peaceful feeling. There was no longer the hounding words upon the wind that one's time was coming to an end. The countdown clock that one would not be able to accomplish all of their goals in the one short lifetime that they possessed. Being human had been so limiting, but now he was free from those limitations, he was free to be whom he truly wanted to be. And free to live life again.

He was Cal Fyrtus and he was now among the Pale Riders that would help vanquish his God's enemies. Lord Inziim was wise, strong and kind. He made sure to approach each and every one of his new troops, checking for any disorientation or issues that were to be had. If there was one thing that made him different than any other Lich, it was that he cared for all those that were under his rule. Each undead was there because they had wished to serve, or in the case of the souless, that their permission was given to serve in such a fashion while they were still alive. He did not take on any undead that wished to move on or stay in the afterlife. Lord Inziim did not enslave any souls, he took volunteers to help protect the living and even the unliving that existed within his borders.

Inziim approached Cal Fyrtus and gave him a hearty handshake. "Salutations Cal, I am very pleased that you responded to my summons. I know that you had served my Father well in life. It is an honor that you would come back to serve me, now in Death."

Cal nodded and bent down on one knee. "Yes, but the honor is mine, Lord Inziim. You are now a God, a Pretender to the Throne of all Gods. What sort of Knight Protector would I have been, if I did not respond to you in your time of need."

Inziim chuckled as he waved one hand. "Oh pish posh, Cal. I am only as powerful as those that are around me. I serve the people, both the living and the dead. Now, please Rise."

Cal rose from his kneeling position. If there was one thing that he appreciated about being undead, it was that he didn't have that back ache anymore. Inziim placed both of his hands on Cal's shoulders.

"Cal Fyrtus, I now appoint you as one of my Generals. You will be able to go forth and lead my armies with my blessing. As such, you only need to make sure that living creatures are to be treated with the respect that they deserve. However, if they choose to fight us, or not listen to reason, you are fully within your rights to crush them utterly. I prefer having friends and allies, but if they broker neither, I will not tolerate enemies that can lay in wait behind mine, or the rest of the Pantheon's backs."

Cal seemed shocked as he crossed his left arm over his chest in a fist. "You do me a great Honor, Lord Inziim. I will not let you down."

"I know that you won't." Inziim responded as he walked away in order to greet the next recently raised troop.

Cal Fyrtus knew that he had big shoes to fill. Much responsibility would be laid at his feet soon enough.​

 

[Twist]

The midday sun peaked, illuminating the grounds of the castle with it's bright yellow rays, it's warming glow very much contradicting the cold, tired streets it shone down on. Bathed in orange light the snow slowly began to melt giving some relief to the sapped stone and weary wood of the buildings of this mountain peaked palace, only for the masonry to creak and groan as the vines and roots of ancient trees gripped tighter in the suns rays. From underneath a gnarled root popped the curious head of a slender mammal, it's coal like eyes scanning the busy streets, as pale skinned creatures went about their work, hollering from wooden stands while others came and went from bricked buildings, sometimes carrying more than what they started with.

It all must have been quite perplexing to the fur clad foreigner, especially with the items so drab and bare.

She scurried on top of a table with contents less drab than the others, picking from it a plump pomegranate which you nibbled on. A large fist of a portly demoness rocked the table but, with deft ease, the wily weasel jumped from the table, almost gliding, as she landed on a nearby barrel. She took no offense to the furious fist, merely watching as the woman realised her folly and now had to clean up the ensuing mess. Small ears twitched as a conversation went on close by....

"Hey did you hear about the stolen Amber..?" inquired the apron wearing humanoid. With his friend at the next stall looking rather dumbfounded, he went further into the subject "Well it seems, a huge amount of Amber has just disappeared into thin air. Just poof" He mimicked an explosion with his haggard hands "The Oni don't know nothing about it neither so they've been questioning everyone who has dealing with the stuff."

He pointed across the way, using his body to shield his gesture, as he pointed at an Amber seller. The hammer wielding shop keep visibly winced at the sight of the poor fella, his blackened eye and missing ear startling. "Do you think it was them...?" asked the stone smith.

He motioned to the Lizardmen setting up shop a few metres away, an Oni already berating the group, shaking his fist at them with great vigour for some perceived offense. They however did not rise to the demon's intimidation, merely continuing to set up their small stall, the vibrant colours of their dye bottles eye-catching amongst the tired and simple crafts of the others. "Maybe... but they're with the Volla and she has always been friendly..."

Suspicion turned to smiles as the Carpenter recited a rumour. "Heh, I hear the Volla has been getting real friendly lately if you know what I mean?" the pale skinned humanoid joked, elbowing his friend in the ribs playfully.

They both guffawed heartily, one of them making kissy faces at the other. The laughter quickly stopped as another Oni passed by, his face a perpetual scowl as he led a group of Bakemono away. They watched him walk down the street, his head swivelling from side to side as if he was on the lookout before turning a corner. "Those guys have been mighty suspicious themselves lately..." whispered the woodworker.

With rumours, suspicion and trading going on all around the street, the pitter patter of furry feet padding away easily went amiss by most.

Orders

Kamaitachi: Confronts the Dragon of Green Peaks

Followers: 4K Bakemono, 1K Oni, 50 Tengu use 1 wealth to create something that uses both elemental properties of Frozen Flames (I unit of Frozen Flames consumed (?))

Diplomacy: Kamaitachi bestows gifts of Amber to Leilani Kahua (Trade Agreement)

 

[Heyitsjiwon]

Rows of clay statues lined the sides of the altar hall, bearing the image of past warriors and ancestors of the Kriegan Bannermen. In the middle of the altar were rows of Kriegans, wearing their straw baskets on their heads and sitting on their knees in meditation and prayer, but most importantly silence. The doors to the altar hall opened and a lone Kriegan still in his armor entered. The Kriegan knelt before the Pot and spoke "Enlightened One, the Banner of the Right have swept the ruins as you have requested. The other-worldly horrors and abominations who attempted to invade our homes are no more... to think that beings of another plane have come to the world to spread their madness and corruption... it truly is the end of times." the Kriegan bannerman said as he slightly shuddered at the thought. Silence filled the altar room once more before a gentle voice seemed to fill the air. "Hence, I ask you all to continue to train your souls so that you may not only obtain spiritual salvation, but also to be able to face the unthinkable without fear. Fear is an insidious poison of the mind that spreads without the strongest of wills and spirits. May this be a precious lesson for you all in your journeys." The Kahan of the Right bowed his head at the words of the Pot.

"Now, there is one among us who has opened themselves and their soul. Rise, Vessel, so that my guidance and wisdom may pour into you." One of the masked men stood up and approached the Pot. Bowing before the Pot, the man took off his straw basket and lifted the Pot above his head. Slowly he lowered the pot and covered his head with it. The Pot then turned around to face his followers "We must continue our work to attain enlightenment and spiritual salvation, yet this cannot be done when nefarious forces threaten to destabilize the world. We will continue to stabilize the world to the best of our abilities so that we may have the time we need to obtain enlightenment. In the meantime while we still have peace, we must continue to train our minds and bodies for the challenges that face us in the coming future."

---

Later that same day, the Pot stood out in the courtyard of the Fortress with the Vessel. If the Vessel did not don the Pot upon his head, then it would have seemed like the Vessel was gazing up at the stars. Yet, this night was silent, but cloudy as grey clouds began to roll in, slowly engulfing the stars in their rolling folds of grey. A storm was brewing, and the stars that the Pot seemed to yearn for remained ever distant. The Pot looked down at his hosts hands and feet as he contorted them into various directions. "How... suffocating..." the Pot thought to itself as it then looked at the ground under him. Existence... what an odd thing.

---

Orders:

Continued excavation of Attolian Ruins and Pasha's Tears
Urgatha, 2k Society, 5k Pelagians, 5k Degenerate Giants, 1 Wealth

Construction of a workshop quarters to begin processing and refinement of raw materials and goods into finished products
3k Attolian Society, 3k Degenerate Giants, 4k Coastmen, 2 Wealth

Salvaging through the battlefield/spoils of war of Bayville
5k Continental Pioneers

 

[Crocodile]

Condemnation of Hinnom
Proclamation of the Allesvasser

War. A terrible act to commit even for the greatest of reasons. Hinnom is a land of arrogant children. Men bowed to them and expected protection. To rule is to bear the burden of the ruler. Your subjects cried out for help and what did you do? Nothing. Who saved the people of Zimmria from Blood and Madness? I did! Who took brave men and women into a battle and paid the blood price for doing so? I DID! Who took up the responsibility for the people there after freeing them of terror? I DID!!!

The arrogant people of Hinnom, who leave their own subjects to die and suffer at the hands of a cult, dare to declare war upon me. Worse, they declare war upon those who I have chosen to embrace as allies in this time of divine mayhem and squabbling. The army of Hinnom are truly great... for they never use them. All you do is rest upon your laurels and expect others to bow down to you? No more. This world has not time nor patience for greedy, childish rulers.

I CURSE GREAT HINNOM!
MAY YOUR CITY FALL INTO RUIN!
MAY YOUR COIN TURN TO LEAD!
MAY NO CHILD BE BORN WITHIN YOUR BORDERS!
MAY YOUR BLOOD RUN COLD!
MAY THE STARS TURN THEIR BACKS UPON YOU!
MAY THE EARTH WRETCH AT YOUR STEP!
MAY WATER NEVER QUENCH THY THRIST!
A CURSE UPON YOU AND YOURS UNTIL LIFTED THROUGH KINDNESS!

So speaks the Allesvasser
Watcher of the Stars
Speaker of Stone
Voice of the Waters of Life

(Casting Baleful Star upon Hinnom)​

 

[Auriel Maza]

A Web of New Friends
Spring 1, Turn 1



[Witch-Haven] - [Audio Track]
​

The buds of leaves began to form on the leaves. The sways of mostly cold winds, but a warm breeze whispered of more. Ice and frost retreated with a bow of their hats. Winter's sojourn on the surface wains and Hajova knew it to be so. The cold mist will subside, grasses and shrubs regrow. The colors and light of Witch-Haven began to return. Smells of fruit and pine seeped into the air, bringing a relaxing calm over the residents. The sounds of the forest returned as they should. Every instrument crescendoed slowly with every voice heard and in tune. Not too soon or late. The concerto of the Witch-Haven accompanied the arrival of spirits as the trees of Barywood and their spirits came to commune with their Witch-Haven kin. Their floating orbs of green, yellow, and blue contrasted to the white of the guardian spirits that roamed seemingly endlessly across the province.

Wings flapped across the trees as multiple long legs skittered across the trees. Stones moved, dirt displaced, and branches cut down; spider webs began to disperse across the trees, fluttering in the breezes. Squirrels and small birds wandered through the webs confused. While the webs appeared newly formed, they lay relatively unguarded. The flapping wings breezed through more of the trees before returning to Witch-Haven Hold. Spiders climbed to and fro, following human and chiropteran alike. Many of the great mothers of the population reside within the hold, their large, majestic appearance gave awe to both the lizardfolk and goblins that have joined Hajova's following. The great mothers brought their adolescent children, who fitted perfectly for mounts for the goblins wandered as well. It seemed the population of Johseckai, the spiders, flourished during the winter season. Of course, these spiders possessed strong intelligence but nothing beyond a highly trainable animal. Many of these animals have yet to truly field their intelligence, something Hajova will certainly field soon enough. Their strength and ability to move along terrain with cargo will certainly allow Hajova's caravans to move through rougher terrain without impedance.

However, while communicating with the spider population, one particular individual stepped forward. A voice called out to Olo as he worked. A spider climbed into the workshop, through the doorway before speaking.

"Hi, whatcha doing?" The voice of the spider echoed through the workshop.

Olo cleared his throat, "I'm working on the curing process for the massive amounts of paper needed for the upcoming project." Olo gazed in the spider's direction. "Oh... well, I didn't expect a Johsec to speak. Or... I think the term now is Johseckai. Mother must have changed the name for a reason. Either way, what is your name?"

The spider closed most of its eyes besides two before continuing, "My name is Yesura. What you doing is very cool. I can't wait to meet her." The two open eyes change.

Olo nodded, "She will enjoy your company, and everyone else will in time. Could you show me what you can do?"

The Spider spun around multiple times, "Ya! I can do that."

Into the dawn, the spider demonstrated its power and touches of divine power. Olo smiled and recorded as best he could. Surely, Yesura will be a key player in the days to come.

 

[Crocodile]

Grand Memorial Ceremony
Battle of Zimmria Monument - Zimmria​

People had gathered, all in morning colors as Zimmrian pikeman stood at attention as a ceremonial guard. Knights of Evermight were on hand as well, considering an army was nearby in case Hinnom or its agents attempted to attack the memorial ceremony. There were Elves, Dwarves and Vasserfolk present, represent the regions who had contributed to the 1st Fountain Host when it marched to destroy the cultists in Zimmria. The monument display four figures with Vasserfolk and Dwarven warriors stand in defense of an Elf with bow in hand. Behind them was a Knight of Evermight upon his steed, blade raised high in a rallying gesture. The platform itself was sculpted to resemble water elemental moving about and even had fountains pouring water into a ring around the platform. There were four sides obeliskes, bearing the names of the dead and the tale of the battle in Elven, Dwarven, Vassertongue and Zimmrian.

The Allesvasser walked down the central row alone towards a podium where he turned and looked upon the gathering with his sightless helm as if he could see them all. He gives a sad smile as he raises his hands to begin to speak.

"My people, we gather here today to honor the brave souls who perished in the opposition of darkness. Those who died in the Battle of Zimmria made the ultimate sacrifice to save others from a power that is beyond terrible. It pains me, seeing so many die after I had asked them to march to battle... it is a burden I will bear as long as I exist. I do not like to ask such things of you who embrace me... but I also cannot ignore such acts of true darkness as was allowed here with the rampaging blood cult."

The Allesvasser starts to look more solemn and angry as he says that, lowering his hand as his blind gaze sweeps over those gathered.

"Hinnom even now prepared to march to war. They have challenge the pantheon I belong to. Other Pretenders who would work with us to bring about a new tomorrow. Worse still, who is to blame for the blood cult in this region? Hinnom! They have sold themselves to a demon and its minions. They used the Zimmrians as fodder for profane acts and even now the people still under the boot of Hinnom are being used the same way!"

His tone was growing more firm and passionate as he spoke.

"They make war upon us for daring to halt their depravity! Their injustice! They bear the burden of rulers and yet dare to treat their vassal states like livestock to be slaughtered! Hinnom has damned itself! I ask you to stand with me still, to stand firm against their darkness! Do not let this sacrifice be in vain! The brave warriors who passed here died witnessing darkness and we will avenge them! We will show the true will of those who will not be livestock! March, brave faithful and know that we shall see justice done upon those who seek to subjugate us! Who dare to try to make use their chattle! Fight and be blessed by my will, knowing I will take to the field MYSELF!"

The crowds roars and chants praises. The people prepared to fight against he forces of Hinnom already in motion and marching against them. There were Knights waiting to take oaths of fealty to swell the ranks of the Knights of Evermight. The Allesvasser had elected to demonstrate the full reach of his growing power and dominion over the lands his faithful dwelled in. War would not make them falter now and people were moving to take those oathes. The 1st Fountain Host was about to swell in numbers significantly.