Mythopoeia: RP of gods and nations (game thread, closed)

[EmperorZuma]

Golden Citadel-Den of the Golden One

Jugaan sat upon a throne of her own in the Gold Tribe's new citadel. Composed of the dead god's more robust furniture, it wasn't as regal as the Golden One would've perferred, but for her ego it was more than enough.

With a lazy eye, Jugaan read the report from Highcrag with a smirk on her face. Haakan's followers had certainly been cursed, and there was little doubt that the other Tribes would think twice before moving to Gangari's side. While the thought was fresh in her mind, she made note on the tablet to send some of her Luug back to the capital to mingle among the Bronze Tribe and hold up her side of her Pact with Cyth'raul.

Cyth'raul quietly hummed a little tune, something a little bit... complex for mortal ears and was best described as a cacophony of whispers. No doubt the cursed ones were being forced to listen to the same tune. However, the same could not be same for the song they were singing; some screamed and others silently melted into madness, though the deity couldn't possibly go about and collect every little reaction to the curse. Nevertheless, it was safe to say that the Pactforger was in a relatively good mood. But now was time for seriousness and so Cyth'raul settled down then contacted Jugaan, "Jugaan, I do believe we have a matter to discuss."

"Speak of the devil..." Jugaan silently mused to herself as she closed her eyes and leaned back onto her throne. "What matter is that, Pactforger?"

"The matter of our previous Pact." Cyth'raul replied, "The Bronze Tribe already have sworn allegiance to me. That means I have practically done this deed for free, correct? I wish... to re-negotiate payment."

"They have?" Jugaan sat up with a start, a puzzled look on her face. "I didn't think Daal would come about without cause. Might I ask, how did you come to get his allegiance?"

"A Pact: an island and their lives for loyalty." Was the answer.

"Odd..." Jugaan thought aloud, feeling like she should've heard about these developments long before Cyth'raul got involved. Pushing the thought of readdressing her agents' situation in Highcrag aside for a moment, Jugaan needed more information. "The Bronze Tribe is very large, are you sure you recieved all of their population's worship? With so many Luug to manage, I doubt Daal could promise the entire Tribe's worship and come through with the deal."

"I received much, yet you say there is more?" Cyth'raul said. Suddenly, there was a chuckle, "Indeed, I doubt such a small island could hold such a large tribe. Of course, that assumes you are speaking the truth."

"I was planning to send my Luug to Highcrag in my attempt to hold up my end of our Pact. Unless Daal has migrated the entire Tribe in a matter of months a sizeable portion of the population should still be there. If not, then at least some should remain in their new territories to the south." Jugaan rubbed her damaged shoulder as she felt the wound grow sore. "If their leader has already made a pact with you, then the rest of the Tribe should be more receptive of my agents' words."

"That is... satisfactory." Cyth'raul stated, "I trust I need not remind you of the fate of Pactbreakers?"

"I'm reminded of it every time I go down to the Maggot Pens. Your Queen is doing quite well, by the way." Jugaan rose from her throne and began to scribble onto a new tablet. "I'll have a messanger make haste to Highcrag to meet with my agents this very night. By the end of the week, both of us will know how well their efforts succeeded." With a shrug, Jugaan added a caveat. "Should they fail, considering what Daal has already done, I would not be against a renegoiation of payment."

"Then we have no more business to discuss, unless you wish to make another transaction." Cyth'raul grinned.

Jugaan nodded, her grin mirroring that of the god's. "I believe I'll conclude our current arrangment before forging a new one, but I'll always keep you in mind."

"Excellent." Was the last thing Cyth'raul said. The words faded away as soon as the deity broke the connection. It had turned out that there was another reason to be in a good mood after all.

When Jugaan felt the presence of the god fade, she summoned Wos and entrusted him with the tablet addressed to her agents in the capital. Before the sun set over the Golden Citadel, Wos was on his way through the tunnels of the Deep Tribe, making haste to the capital.

Highcrag-Den of Haakan

Haakan growled at the group that had gathered before him. The Chieftains for both the Stone and Clay Tribes had come, along with members of his own Tribe, all of which had been imbued with the Runic powers Gangari blessed Haakan himself with.

They were furious, the runes Haakan had carved on their backs and painted on their skin had festered and burrowed themselves into their flesh, causing much discomfort. Their minds were also fogged with constant whispers, a chorus that drowned out their own thoughts and pressured them to worship the Pactforger, Cyth'raul.

"Enough!" Haakan shouted at the angry mass as he clubbed a stalagmite. "I know we all suffer, but we can not abandon our faith! Do not let these whispers cloud your mind to the wondrous powers we now possess, powers we owe to Gangari! I will hear no more talk of this blasphemy to change our allegiance!" Despite his words, Haakan was losing the crowd. The Stone Chieftain had put forward a motion to make a pact with Cyth'raul to free them of this curse, and the leaders collected here we slowly giving the idea their favor.

Gangari appeared beside Haakan infront of the crowd. "If you give in to Cyth'rauls torture then he has won! He attacked my child in the night and diseased you while I was busy tending to her wounds. If you take his pact you will be free from his pain but you will never be free from him!" He paused and materialized a thick leather bound tome from the air "I can teach you to remove this disease and any more he brings upon you if you're willing to listen."

The appearance of the very god they were trying to abandon gave the faction that wanted to pull away pause. Haakan himself nodded with approval as he looked upon the god. "I will make sure these cowards..." Haakan shot a weary glance at the Stone Chieftain. "...listen. Please, teach us the means to rid ourselves of this wretched curse."

Gangari handed the tome to Haakan, it was a collection of writings and diagrams detailing rituals "This tome contains the knowledge to remove the curses of the divine. I will imprint you with its rituals and you will teach them to your kin." He paused and looked at the gathered crowd "I will lead the ritual to cleanse you of his corruption and afterwards should he attack you again you will be able to cleanse yourselves."

"If any of you wish to give in to Cyth'raul I won't stop you, but you will not have my protection when he turns upon you again."

With the evidence of Gangari's help before him, the Stone Chieftain visibly backed down. Seeing this, Haakan nodded with approval. "It appears we are in agreement. Teach us, Gangari."

Nodding to them Gangari spoke "Then let us begin."

 

[JoJo]

Emperor Maximus I, Nova Verde, Isle of Maia

"So... anything else on the agenda?" Prima asked, as they finished putting together their latest scheme. Another Octopi meeting was taking place in the Emperor's private quarters, ostensibly during a family visit. Of course, the proper precautions had been made and trusted guards had been posted so it would be impossible for anyone to come in accidentally or even listen from a distance. Aelia sat on Maximus' lap sucking her thumb, now over six months old she could sit without any back support.

"I've heard again from the Phoenix," Wen replied, "He's now apparently hiding in Verde, and get this, he wants a meeting with the Phantom."

"Me?" Maximus exclaimed, "Why?"

"He says there's something very important to discuss, and adds that he's got a lot of water benders to join him. My contact was unable to meet him but he did know his intermediatary... does the name Lord Cassian ring a bell?"

"Wow!" the young Emperor gasped, "I know him, he was one of Kaius' old friends! I think we can trust him,"

"If you're sure," Prima interjected, "We've got a holiday to Verde scheduled soon, we could arrange to meet the Phoenix there and find out who he is, if you think it'd be safe?"

"Yeah," Maximus smiled, "We need more help outside the palace and this Phoenix guy has what we need. Send the letter tonight, Wen,"

~​

General Omar, west of Lot-Vos

General Omar sighed at the appearance of the bird-halfling perched on his hand-rail.

"Tell you what," he started, "We're currently waiting for further orders from Nova Verde, if it works for you then how about a truce until they arrive? With any luck, the order will be to return home and then we can all put this damn war behind us."

He looked back at Captain Fallan.

"Besides, isn't it right that the men are weary of fighting and would prefer something more... sporting?"

The man nodded in reply. The General turned back to the messenger.

"Tell me halfling, do your warriors know how to play deckball?"

 

[Gabanuka]

Grand Ajivha: The Runeitry

Everything we in place. The grand hall of the Runeitry had been cleared leaving ample space for the Vazin and his sorcerers. Each group had been left to manage their part of the procedure; the Necromancers hand drawn runes of the floor a small circle 5ft in diameter, designed to keep a soul in a specific area after death. Within it stood the Vazin and his armour. The Artificers and smiths had completed the body for the armour, a man made entirely of clockwork, laced with runes. It was designed to mimic the joints and shape of a human body, based on knowledge taken from the Necromancers; naturally it did not move by itself, such a thing was beyond their skill, however with any luck it wouldn't have to. Finally the Genners were standing by, ready to breath life into their newest creation.

His attendents had not been told of his plan, each had just been given a Job. The smarter among them had an idea of the Vazin's plan however they did not speak up, Ajivha needed innovation lest it die. The old man turned to his Visor; he had already been told that he was to take over should anything go wrong.

There was no need for ceremony or speeches, hopefully they would not be necessary anyway.
Vazin Prajja Tu Andha took his last breath and spoke.

'Do it.'

Then he died.

The Necromancer's Job was to kill him in the most painless way, allowing for his soul to be released. The runes they had drawn meant it would not leave to wherever it was they pass on to. Then the Runes set to work, designed to ensnare souls, draw them into the metallic body, the Vazin's spirit infesting every inch of the new form. Without the Genner that would be where it stayed, a prisoner of clockwork, luckily Lysei's men knew their job like any other. They breathed the fire of creation into the body, as they did with any golem. Al this had happened in an instant, each carefully planned spell reacting with the other. Now it was a matter of waiting.

A gauntleted hand moved.

 

[JoJo]

Emperor Maximus I, Nova Verde, Isle of Maia

Maximus waved goodbye to the court as the carriage he, Queen Prima and Princess Aelia shared started down the road out of the palace. As far as anyone-else knew, they were making their annual winter holiday break to the warm shores of Verde to visit his father's grave and his mother's current residence in her poor health. In fact, he couldn't wait to finally meet the Phoenix and find out who the mysterious man was, and what he had planned.

"Lord Cassian... who else was friends with Lord Cassian?" he wondered to himself as the streets of Nova Verde flashed by and then receded into the distance behind the carriage. Whatever happened, it would be a holiday to remember.

.​

Emperor Kaius III, ???, Isle of Verde

A week later, Kaius entered a dank cave with the instructions he'd be surreptitiously passed, it hadn't escaped his notice either that above the small tunnel lay a large manor that was property of the Imperial Court. High white walls lined the estate, posted with guards who walked around on a regular patrol.

"Whoever this mysterious Phantom is, he must be high up in the realm," he muttered to himself. Finally after walking through dark caverns for several minutes he reached a large stone chamber where a short cloaked figure sat on a carved rock chair, bright blue eyes from somewhere within the hood staring out at him.

"I am the Phantom, welcome Phoenix," the hooded figure said, his voice echoing around the chamber. The voice wasn't as he had expected, rather it was high pitched like that of a woman or a young boy. In fact, the accent seemed very familiar...

"Maximus?" Kaius exclaimed in surprise.

"Kaius?!" Maximus cried as he suddenly recognised his older brother standing in the shadows, he jumped off the chair and threw himself into Kaius' arms.

"How? How?" he wept, "You were dead, I saw your body, you were killed by Lysei..."

"Not quite," Kaius laughed, holding his brother tightly, "Uncle Octavius faked my death, no doubt so he could retake power. I escaped his estate with the help of Jashiki and have been raising an army ever since. We have the strength to take Verde at this point, maybe even start pushing into the mainland, but..."

"But what?" Maximus asked wide-eyed.

"What's been happening since I was away, Max?"

Maximus recounted everything that had happened in the Imperial Court, from the time of Kaius' apparent death until the present day. The deposed Emperor listened through out, shaking his head in disbelief as stories of Vallous' gluttony and mob lynchings were laid out one by one.

"It's clear from what you've told me that Lysei is working with Octavius," Kaius sighed, putting his hand to his head, "Very likely the god conspired to overthrow me, no less, because I wouldn't let him keep killing our subjects unopposed."

"Can Jashiki beat him?" Maximus asked.

"Perhaps," Kaius shrugged, "From the message he sent me, I think he fought Lysei recently but got hurt and lost his eye in the process. He's still alive and kicking though, apparently."

"I hope so," Maximus said, falling silent for a moment before adding, "Does this mean I'm not really an Emperor then? Since you're still alive, not that I mind that!"

"I doubt there's a precedent for this situation," Kaius laughed, "Technically it's impossible for an Emperor to abdicate, so lets say we're really co-Emperors eh? I'm the senior Emperor and you're the junior Emperor,"

"That works for me," Maximus said happily, "Are you going to join Octopi then?"

"Heh, sure," Kaius grinned, before taking a more serious expression, "We have to talk about that though, Maximus,"

"Talk about what?" the young Emperor asked crestfallen. Kaius bent down to look his younger brother straight in the eyes.

"I'm very proud of what you've done so far, but you have to realise us mere mortals cannot fight gods alone. Lysei would burn you in a moment if he ever found out you were leading a rebellion against him,"

"But I'm safe, only a few people know I'm the Phantom anyway," Maximus replied sulkily.

"I know, but that's still too many," Kaius sighed, "I don't know what I'd do if something ever happened to you. I have another equally important task for you instead,"

"You do?" Maximus said incredulously.

"Yes," Kaius replied with a smile, "As the royals of this realm, we have a responsibility to the people of this land. The Father himself has entrusted us to guide every Auroran, from the highest noble to the lowliest slave, in better or worse. I need you to stay as Emperor to ensure the best for our people, to help Octavius when he does good and moderate him when he does evil, as I suspect he will. All direct links with the Octopi must be cut to protect the throne. Can you do that for me Max?"

"I can," the boy nodded, "What will the Octopi do without me though?"

"Let me take over," Kaius said with a determined grimace, "Until the reign of Lysei passes, there's no way I can show my face publicly in this realm. I'll lead the resistance and as long as I get back at Octavius one day, I'll die a happy man,"

The two brothers agreed on this and then climbed out of the cave together for the Imperial Estate, where they would talk some more and meet with Prima and Aelia. Funny, Kaius thought to himself as they left, that only when the threat of death is hanging over you do you realise truly how precious every single day is.

.​

Emperor Maximus I, Pomia, Isle of Maia

Some time later, Maximus' ship sailed back to the mainland port of Pomia. Prima had decided to stay with Kaius for a while longer, overjoyed at the sudden reversion of her widowhood. Young Aelia would be staying with them too, to spend some quality time with her father, so Maximus was the only royal to return to the port, where Octavius was waiting anxiously for him. The young Emperor ran up the gangplank and gave his uncle a hug, but immediately he could tell something was wrong. Octavius' usual jovial attitude was gone and instead the large man was fiddling awkwardly with his fingers.

"What's the matter, Uncle?" he asked hesitantly.

"I don't know how to say this Maximus," Octavius said with a fearful look in his eyes, running his hands through his hair, "Last night in the palace, Vallous was murdered!"

 

[EmperorZuma]

Cytundeb-Ruins of the Auroran Outpost

Daal worked to rally his Luug to work on fulfilling the final part of his bargain to gain control of the island: the building of a Luug trading post. Luckily, the Aurorans had left many of their own supplies behind in their clash, so the workers were not short on materials.

However, Daal did not want to build on the broken foundations of what the Auroran's started. Instead, he had his Luug carry the wood, stone, and other supplies to the south. In that direction lay a cove, one where the outpost could be built and have access to the rest of the Bronze Tribe's settlement on the island.

Highcrag-Den of the Supreme

Budraal nodded silently to himself as he read the Krakari agent's more thorough report. With this he was satisfied that the Deep Tribe's troubles were an internal matter. In a reply, the Supreme thanked the agent for her assistance, but also instructed that her services were no longer require and the agent should return home.

Highcrag

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the capital, various people toiled away at their own duties. Wos had arrived, and worked with Jugaan's agents to convert more of the Bronze Tribe to Cyth'raul's fold.

Also, the Mud Tribe worked with the Moss Tribe to develop a "fertilizer" of sorts, using mineral-rich materials to enhance the growth of foodstuffs.

Spoiler

1. Build a Trading Post on Cytundeb
2. Implement Ritual Tech should Gangari's action succeeds.
3. Research Fertilizer (bonus to food production)

(Cultural: Give 2 pop units of worship to Cyth'raul)

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

Khyber, North of Lot-Vos

Khyber went to the commotion and saw the Ray-Das messenger. He was angry enough that they had lost the battle but now they had audacity to come to them with demands. Khyber was beyond mad. He saw what these halflings had done to his people and now they asked for something of a tribute. He knew there were others commanders aboard the ships and some that directly talked with the families but this was his war.

"Which option do you choose?" The messenger asked, finished with his taunting. To Khyber, that was all they did. All they did was talk and even if they did defeat them, he hated it. He let the silence between them linger for a second before the familiar sound of his sword being unsheathed cut through the air.

"I choose for you to get off of this ship." He pointed his curved sword at the messenger. "Tell your king that as long as we breathe, we will never surrender to you or your terms. You started this war by raiding our people and our lands. I hope your people finish things that they've started because this will end one way or the other. Now leave."

He nodded to his men to advance on the messenger and sure enough he flapped away. Khyber could have chased after the bird and ripped off its wings but even he knew that would break this temporary truce between them.

"Was that the right thing to say?" One of the commanders asked Khyber. Khyber looked out over the railing and watched bird sail away.

"It was the only thing to say." He grumbled, fantasizing about laying waste to the whole city. There was nothing he wanted more than to be remembered for greatness rather than mistake but even in the winter winds, seeds of doubt began to sprout in his head. "Those bastards will pay... all of them."

Then his thoughts drifted to Lysei but he was nowhere to be found. It seemed like he had no interest in wars but Khyber needed results. As the other officers drifted away and fell asleep, Khyber thought of another idea. He had heard reports of this God, a God of pacts. This God yielded results and rumor has it, was responsible for the lowering of the tide. Cyth'raul, that was his name. He looked around to make sure no one would hear him and sure enough, everyone was either in their quarters or taking sleepy patrols around the ship so Khyber prayed.

" Cyth'raul..." Khyber quietly said. "I pray you give me guidance. Help me turn the tide of this war and I swear I will never fight again. Grant me guidance for this victory, God of Pacts."

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Cawles, University

Using the school's knowledge of chemistry, Cawles and her team were able to find more advanced chemical reactions with their research. She was spurred on by the nature of the University and its encouragement of learning. This university was the work of one God as was the Manor of Death was another. She was continually in awe of their powers but then she though of Lysei. She remembered the acts of Lysei and his fire. Then, Cawles had an idea.

"Cawles, this sounds far too dangerous." One of her scholars advised but Cawles was busy, mixing something inside a jar.

"Our people are dying in the fight against Ray-Das. They need everything they can get their hands on. What we do here is but a fraction of what they suffer there." Cawles said, measuring a spoon full of the mixture. "This is tar from the swamps west of here. Putting this to torch will only extinguish the fire but I remember that reactions we studied?"

"Yes of course but what you are trying to do could draw negative attention to-"

"Any discovery here is worth of some use." Cawles simply said as she poured another mixture into the wooden spoon. "Gangari favors any discovery within this university. It is the lack of trying something that he seems to dislike, I hear."

Spoiler: Actions

(Major) Research incendiary bombs-using University bonus
(Minor)Pray to Cyth'raul

 

[Terratina.]

Cyth'raul, Highcrag - 15/15 AP

The deity was certain that watching and waiting to see if Jugaan and her agents would do what she said they were. However, watching little - or in the Luugs' case, not-so-little mortals - scurry about was always tiresome. Cyth'raul took a deep breath with closed eyes, feeling in the influx of power lost and... something else: a prayer.

"Cyth'raul... I pray you give me guidance. Help me turn the tide of this war and I swear I will never fight again. Grant me guidance for this victory, God of Pacts."

Guidance, that was what the mortal wanted, huh? Cyth'raul smiled but the reply was more stern than the smile would have suggested, "Your pacifism or lack of it matters little to me, mortal. War is tiresome, yes, but one little mortal keeping his sword sheathed is poor remuneration for granting complete victory over your enemies. Understand? As it stands, this Pact does not interest me."

 

[Gabanuka]

Grand Ajivha: The Runeitry

Ayasa-Vazin. That was what he had become.

The man himself had felt no pain at death, the Necromancers were knowledgeable enough to cause that. HIs death had been more akin to suddenly sleep, only to awaken in this new body.

The body itself felt strange, distant; he could see what was now his hand, move it as he wished. However it was like moving one's hand while submerged in oil, responsive but slow, an almost minutiae change. He placed a hand to his face determining whether he could still touch, once again the sensation felt distant and muted; he could feel no texture only form. For a second the once-man doubted his choice; giving up his humanity for something so trivial as time; then he saw what he had been. On the Runeitry floor lay an old-man, ancient and crooked, a shell of a once proud nation. HIs mind had been sharp but the body weak, that was made abundantly clear.

The Ayasa-Vazin turned his new head to the crowd, examining their faces in turn. For every smug smile and proud gaze was a face in dismay, some even in horror. It did not matter, the men had done their duty how they felt about it was irrelevant in the eyes of their Vazin. He attempted to clear his throat, before realising he had no throat to clear; in truth he hadn't taken into consideration the bodies ability to speak. A voice did emerge, not muted or metallic as one would expect from a man in armour but just as it had been in life and age.

'You have served your city well. For that I thank you. However this is nothing in the face of what will come, the world has changed and we have failed to change with it. No more. We lead the world in science and technology, in magic and knowledge. The time has come to leave our city, bring order where there is chaos, light where there is darkness. Let us lead this world to a better tomorrow.'

Spoiler: Actions

Hidden action
Scout out the South-East by the lake
Scout out the West near the in-land sea

 

[Anti-American Eagle]

Gangari - Silver-root, Aurora, and then Silver-root again - 12/15 AP

After the ritual was completed Gangari walked away from the deep tribes. The tension between the different factions was seemingly high and attacking Cyth'raul or his followers would only lead to them tearing eachother apart.

He returned to Ajivha and smelled the air for a moment, something felt off. No one was praying for his help at the moment and he felt some of his power behind the anomalous whatever-it-was, so he didn't investigate. He returned to his university and placed a copy of the ritual book in the main library as well as a copy in Indraj's Craft room. He then went to speak to Cawles, but found that she was busy. Instead of disturbing her he visited the priest that had originally come from the raptor states. He gave her a parcel containing another copy of the tome, with a note on the front with the words "For Cawles" on it. Trusting her to deliver it he walked away to attend to the business of the university.

After he had checked upon his students and their students and the various projects he was keeping an eye on, a thought occurred to him. Aurora. Lysei had brought a grand idea to him, a pantheon between them in the lands they roamed. He had little presence anywhere beyond Ajivha and the Deep Tribes. As far as he knew Lysei had dominated the Raptor states in Qartog's absence and was retaking the minds of Aurora. The necromancers had came to his home for sanctuary and he had began to bless them, through them he would bring his teachings to the Krakari. But Aurora had never interacted with him. He stayed aware of the goings on of the state: Their previous emperor was dead. his brother had been appointed the new Emperor, the new emperor's uncle administrated for him, they were at war with the Ray-das and were suffering losses, etc. He had walked their streets for a time finding disgust with the conditions of their slaves, atleast Lysei seemed to care about them from what he had heard. They had never sent scholars to his university which he found was odd with them being friends with Ajivha.

He started walking the Auroran streets, adjusting his form to blend in amongst them. Living amongst them for a week, watching them. Wrong things were happening. Men were being burned in the streets for their beliefs, Slavery and crime were still rampant... Then there was talk of Lysei having been behind the death of the emperor in some places, considering what he knew it wouldn't shock him.

A group known as "Octopi" was the main source of the rumours surrounding Lysei. After a few days of wandering, one of them approached him while he slept on the streets. Gangari read his mind, learned what he knew and then convinced him to recruit him. He helped them by running messages for awhile, a beggar seen as little more than a slave could move nearly unseen. After a week he was brought to a cell meeting, he listened intently to what the superior of their cell had to say, listened to the discussions and gave advice on how to better hide themselves in public. After it was over he approached the cell superior and handed him a stack of letters, he asked that they be brought to the leaders of the group. persuading him by slightly imprinting the idea and their importance into his mind.

The letter said: "

[i]Gangari supports your spreading of the truth. Should you be uncovered and the worst come, merely speak his name and he shall hear your pleas and bring you to safety.[/i]

"

After he walked a suitable distance away from the meeting site he reverted his form from his Auroran disguise and teleported himself back to his sanctum. He sat down and formed an oaken board with a checkered pattern on it on his table. He formed and then placed bronze and silver pieces on the board on opposite sides. He took a few hours to develop the rules and then relayed them to the mind around him. He then began to play the game he had developed with the consciousness through telepathy. He was testing it and entertaining himself with a game of what he called shatranj (chess).

Spoiler: Actions

- Taught the Deep Tribes (tribes aligned with Gangari), Ajivha, and the Krakari (Cawles and the necromancers in the university) how to perform rituals to remove and cure curses both divine and mortal.

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

Khyber, North of Lot-Vos

"War is tiresome, yes, but one little mortal keeping his sword sheathed is poor remuneration for granting complete victory over your enemies. Understand? As it stands, this Pact does not interest me."

And just like that, the God answered back. Khyber was a bit taken aback by the God responding so quickly but still, he came up with a response soon enough.

"Fine, then I shall give you one city in exchange for another." Khyber offered. "The capitol of my people see mostly Lysei because of the help he has given us during the raids. If you help me take Lot-Vos then I offer you Talis. Talis is a citadel to the south of our lands. Shrines shall be built and I shall spread word of your powers. Gods need followers, I offer you that much."

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

Yoren, East of the Raptor States

Winter offered little respite as Yoren was flown from one place to another with a bag still over his head. They tied his beak shut making it harder for him to breathe as it is but comfort wasn't what Severyn had in mind after all he had done to them. But Yoren saw it nothing more than competition and competition had to be brought down so that they could prosper. He began to regret his kindness and mercy. When he had the chance, he exiled them and only threatened to bring harm to them when he could have put them to death. Maybe he wasn't so smart after all.

Finally after days of travel, they removed the bag. The estate had been taken back by overgrowth and even in the winter did he notice the broken walls of House Severyn. They were one of the older houses just like the Oscens and just like the Oscens, they were heavily mercantile.

"Look familiar?" One of the members taunted as he pulled Yoren inside the house. Inside didn't fare any better as the overgrowth had wrapped vines along the walls and columns. He was lead to a large and spacious room which he remembered as the dining room. There were more members there with swords and whips, glaring at him as he entered. In the middle of the room was a tall and slim metal cage. They opened the cage and shoved Yoren inside. There was no space for him to sit down which meant he had to stand and lean.

"Yoren Oscen, you are on trial today." One of them said. He looked around for the speaker and soon enough he found a hunched Krakari. "I've noticed you broke a wing. It's a shame you didn't break the other as well, then you would feel but a fraction of pain I feel everyday." The figure walked forward and into a torch's light. Yoren's eyes widened.

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Hall of Raptors

The kidnapping sent shock through the community. What soldiers remained combed through the city and its surrounding area but they faced difficulty due to the winter season. Sudden snow storms and winter winds made the searches slow. Aerya watched Gora become more cautious and a bit withdrawn in the meetings. They had lost the battles against the Ray-Das even with Aurora's help. Now the talk was to finding anything that could help the soldiers in their conflict. Aurora had suffered a significant defeat so the search was serious as to make sure they wouldn't suffer such a loss. Aerya urged Gora once more to try his agent to see if he could attempt anything while the agent still were among the Ray-Das. She praised Gora for having such an agent that could be there for so long. If anything, she hoped the conflict would end soon but she had a feeling this was just the beginning.

Spoiler: Actions

(Major)???

 

[Terratina.]

Cyth'raul, Highcrag - 14/15 AP

There wasn't long to wait for the mortal's reply, though whoever it was seemed a bit irritated. Regardless, a low hum emanated from the deity's mouth as the mortal made the deal more interesting with, "...If you help me take Lot-Vos then I offer you Talis..."

"Done." Was the only answer the Pactforger gave as yet another Pact was written into the Tome. Guidance was what the mortal wanted and guidance was what the mortal would get. Every little thing Cyth'raul knew of war were crammed into a blessing. Whispers would fill the mortal's mind, stating strategies and whatnot. Perhaps those of past great generals or whatever the mortal would decide them to be. Qartoq would probably roll in whatever pit the death goddess had chosen to throw herself into at the sound of that notion.

Nevertheless, with knowledge came power and sometimes obsession. Cyth'raul would simply have to see whether to the mortal would be swallowed by the symphony of sounds his head would be filled with. But first, there was one more to address.

"What is your name, mortal? You never stated it." Cyth'raul reluctantly added in somewhat bored fashion.

Spoiler: Actions/OOC

Bless Khyber with good strategy skills, basically give him the mind of a great general. - DC:5
Bonus: +6 Guidance

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

Khyber, north of Lot-Vos

With a single word, the God accepted his request. Tiny whispers began to creep into his mind but whether or not they would prove useful in the coming fight was yet to be seen. Then Cyth'raul asked a question to such a basic thing he forgot to add include.

"What is your name, mortal? You never stated it."

"I am Khyber of House Kraai." Khyber said. "My family is one of the most prominent where I come from. We hold much say in our people. I swear to you that if we take this city, I will travel to Talis post haste and spread word of your accomplishments. They will take my word, I assure you."

 

[JoJo]

Emperor Maximus I and the Great Emir, Nova Verde, Isle of Maia

Maximus yawned as he rolled out of bed, it had been a late night after yet another winter feast to celebrate his return from Verde. He swore he would burst if he had to attend another this evening. Still, he felt relaxed knowing that Vallous was gone and his involvement with the Octopi was over, the only remaining contact would be with Kaius himself. He left the customary bell to ring for his personal assistants to come in and instead walked over to his open window looking out over the palace gardens and to the city beyond, the sun struggling to make it's way above the hills in the distance. Suddenly he heard shouts from the guards below, he looked down at them in alarm but he couldn't see anything out of the ordinary down there. In fact, they seemed to be pointing up at him.

As Maximus turned his head up, he saw the talons of a gigantic bird, it was at least as wide as the palace itself and before he could say anything, it began to lower itself, he caught a quick glimpse of its piercing black eyes before it lowered even further to reveal an Ajivhan. He was sloppily dressed in a suit that was clearly a few sizes too large for him, but he had an irresistible smile about him.

"Ah, Emperor Maximus, if I am not mistaken? I am the Great Emir! Lord of South Channel Island, and I invite you to discuss a few terms with me." Emir patted the bird and said "hop on!" smile still wide.

Maximus gasped in awe of the giant bird, quickly grabbing his wooden sword from his bed he returned and hopped up to the edge of the balcony.

"Is it safe?" he asked cautiously, ignoring the continued shouts of the guards below.

"Safe? I rode her all the way here!" Emir laughed a bit. "I made her myself, or rather I revived her from the history books. She is tame as I want her to be." Emir casually walked forward and reached out a hand to Maximus. "Come now, it has been ages since I visited Aurora and I must know more about what has happened."

Maximus was still hesitant but the mysterious man seemed very friendly and warm, so he decided it must be okay. He took the man's hand and climbed onto the back of the bird, stroking her feathers with his fingers.

"It's soft," he laughed, before adding proudly, "My uncle Octavius can fly, he took me for a ride last month,"

"He can?" Emir noted in a less enigmatic manner. He then patted the bird a few times and it flew off into the air. Emir let it rise up a couple hundred feet until he was far above the clouds. He then turned to Maximus and asked "they say that all Auroran aristocracy meet Lysei eventually, some to be offered power such as Octavius it seems, some to be given ultimatums, and others to meet their end. Has Lysei come to talk to you yet?"

"No," Maximus shook his head with a shrug, "Uncle and Vallous are the only two people I know who've met him, well apart from..." he left the sentence to hang for a moment, "He gave Uncle Octavius fire power and flying and he tells Vallous lots of things about what he does... well, told I suppose now,"

"Yes, yes I have heard of Vallous. The slave who escaped the clutches of Nelind and rose to become Lysei's prophet. Interesting to see how the god works. Who... who else do you know who has met him? Strange he has yet to contact you, but who else did he contact?" It was then that Emir's eyes grew wide and he realized that's who Maximus meant. "Ah, my apologies, I was surprised to hear Kaius died, I would imagine gods could heal fevers, unless that was not what he came down with."

"I don't know," Maximus said sadly, looking away, "I really do miss Kaius though, do you think Lysei could bring him back if he wanted? I wouldn't even mind not being Emperor if I could have Kaius back, it's kind of boring anyway,"

"The gods are strange to me, unfortunately. I don't know what they are capable of, only what they have done, and even then my knowledge of that is limited. Perhaps he could, if the right time arose." Emir sensed that the conversation was getting a little serious and steered the bird so it did a few twirls and loops so that the boy was laughing again. Eventually once they'd had their fun, he clapped his hands and said, "I think that is enough for now, do you know where your uncle is? We have much to discuss."

.​

High Prince Octavius and the Great Emir, Nova Verde, Isle of Maia

Octavius had trouble sleeping that night, every time he closed his eyes he saw terrible images of Vallous' bedroom appear. The old prophet lying on his bed, half undressed and with a knife plunged deep into his stomach, his guts spilling out over the bed sheets. On the wall, the rough shape of an octopus hand-drawn in blood. Several times he saw intruders lurking over him with daggers, only to awaken and find it was only another nightmare. After the third time his wife had tired of being disturbed and left to find another bed to sleep in.

In the following morning, the Prince Regent was still half-asleep when a pair of guards burst into his bedroom in alarm.

"Sorry your Majesty!" they blurted out, "The Emperor's been taken, by a man riding on a big bird!"

"What!" Octavius shouted in alarm, pinching himself to check this wasn't just another haunting nightmare. The pain was real and fear clenched around his heart, had Octopi got Maximus now too? He spent a moment getting dressed and then ran down the corridor to the palace gardens to get a full report. As he arrived he spotted his nephew struggling with a group of embarrassed personal attendants and an Ajivhan man buried under a pile of palace guards. A giant bird was standing awkwardly nearby, not sure what to make of the scene.

"Good work men, this is the kidnapper?" Octavius shouted over to his guards, "Take him to the dungeons immediately on a charge of high treason, just wait until I get down there you disgusting octopus, I'll rip every..."

"Wait!" Maximus cried, finally freeing himself from the attendants, "This man didn't kidnap me, he just gave me a ride on his bird! He's actually really nice and has come from an island to talk to us,"

"He has?" the Prince Regent replied in surprise.

"Excuse me your Majesty," the Ajivhan interjected, emerging from the pile of guards, "I apologise for any alarm I caused, I was merely giving the young Emperor a special ride as a gesture of goodwill."

"Hm, and who exactly are you?" Octavius asked sceptically.

"Why, I am the Great Emir, Lord of South Channel Island!" the man said with a flourish, "I met your friend Prince Torus in the Channel and I'm here to discuss a few terms with you and your Emperor,"

"Terms about what?"

"I have a deal to propose,"

Some time later, Maximus, Octavius and the Emir were sitting around a table in one of the negotiation rooms, the Ajivhan telling a dashing tale involving the giant bird and the eight year old monarch listening in awe. Octavius watched on with more than a little jealousy, not long ago it had been him who had been receiving so much attention. Finally when the story ended, he thought it was time to cut to business.

"What do you have to propose," he asked simply.

"Ah," Emir replied, "News has reached even my island of the ongoing conflict between the Kratari and Auroran allies and the Ray-Das around Lot-Vos. War of the Burning Tides, I believe they are calling it. We can provide assistance of a kind, in exchange for your help in another matter."

"What kind of assistance?" Octavius said gruffly.

"Me and my friends are Genners," Emir explained, "We can create life from nothing, from what Torus has told me you already have some experience of this?"

"Indeed," the Prince Regent replied in surprise at the mention of this magic, "Come, I'll show you,"

He lead the Emir and Maximus down deep into the palace dungeons, below even the prison cells. They found themselves in a large stone chamber surrounded by an odd bunch of men and women, many of whom were attending to small strange creatures in cages.

"These are our Genners," Octavius said to the pair, "Mostly former slaves, we captured them after they tried to escape months ago and offered them a deal. In exchange for their freedom and any reasonable desires met, they have agreed to live down here and hone their powers for use by the Auroran state. So far we haven't had much luck producing anything useful..."

Indeed, none of the strange creatures seemed larger than a small pig and fewer of any sort of use. A bat with only one wing jostled for space with a toad with three eyes and what looked like a cat with a monkey's face, Maximus seemed fascinated in particular with a flat-faced dog who was yapping at his heels.

"Ah," Emir sighed, "Your Genners have potential, but they need better training. You saw the bird outside here right? My men could teach your Genners to make creatures that size, with a bit of effort on their behalf. Furthermore, we could also create giant monsters taller than buildings to aid you in your battle against the Ray-Das."

"What would you want in exchange for all this help?" Octavius asked suspiciously.

"Just a few battalions of soldiers, and enough ships and supplies to support them, to return to my island in the Channel for a couple of months."

"What for purpose exactly?"

"Defensive purposes I assure you, with the recent conflict in Cytendeb we are concerned about the expansionist ambitions of the Luug race particularly,"

Octavius wasn't entirely convinced, remembering his pact with the young Emperor he turned to Maximus to consult him.

"What do you think Max, is this a good idea?"

"Yeah," Maximus said happily, holding the small dog he'd been looking at earlier in his arms, "I like Emir's magic, let's crush those halflings to pieces!" he enthused, before adding, "Oh, the man said I can keep this dog, I'm going to call him Pugsley,"

"Good," Octavius managed to crack a smile with difficulty, "Well, I guess that settles it then, you have a deal," he said whilst shaking Emir's hand.

"Excellent," The Ajivhan grinned, "We will start preparation immediately,"

.​

General Omar, West of Lot-Vos

"Score!" the cry came as a swarthy Auroran sailor kicked a leather ball over a halfling head into the Ray-Das net. General Omar cheered with the other officers and poured out more liquor for them.

"Two to one, better than I thought," he laughed. At that moment one of the junior officers appeared and whispered something in his ear. The General turned and saw a fleet of ships sailing out of the mist towards them, all bearing the Auroran flag. A few hasty signals and their intention was clear.

"Fall back to your positions!" General Omar shouted as the players hurriedly left the deck and the Ray-Das practically leapt back into their own boats, sailing away as fast as their ships could carry them. The General chuckled as the new Auroran ships sped past the fleet towards Lot-Vos, his own ships taking the rear position. "Looks like this truce is over huh?"

.​

The Great Emir, Ray Das Borders

"Get ready men!" Emir was running about, his rags flapping in the wind as he prepared everything. "Take the novices and put them on the bow! Where is Vasha? Get him on the crows nest!" People were scurrying and moving about in a way most Auroran generals couldn't even manage. None of these people were trained soldiers, but the way Emir conducted them, the Ray Das would probably have believed they were.

Everything was in place. Emir took a deep breath and looked to his sand bird, who had been standing on top of the captain's quarters. He murmured a few things and the bird flew off into the air. It dove and rolled, avoiding Ray Das crossbow bolts. One bolt hit its wing, but the bolt was met with nothing but sand as the bird was none the worse for it. It landed with a massive gust of wind and blew back any soldiers in its way. The massive bird hovered over the land and all was silent for a while. It seemed fatigued, weighed down. It was then that bones, scales, and some odd fluid started falling out of its body, they were massive bones that no creature on this planet could lay claim to. These bones piled up like a mountain above the Ray Das, swimming in the fluid that the bird ejected. It was then that Emir yelled out with a massive grin. "NOW!"

The Genners all at once began to Bring life to the creatures, almost all the work had already been done, and this was just putting on the finishing touches. The bones separated from one another and began to combine with those that belonged to them. The sand bird continued to flap its wings, blowing away any attempts to advance on the creatures, though most everyone was just staring at the display. The mountains all began to glow a bright red, along with the Genner ships. A massive flash of light swept over the battlefield, briefly blinding everyone, then it was silent. The sand bird had disappeared, and in its place, was six massive abominations, taller than the tallest of buildings. They each stood at least five stories and glared down at the halflings nearby. No two of the abominations were the same, one moved like a great ape on all fours, despite looking less like a monkey and more like an armored lizard. Another had serrated hooks for fingers and could cast them like it arms were fishing rods down at whatever it pleased, the rest of the creature was barbed and hooked, it looked as if it could tear down walls with its design. The third was Emir's favorite, as it represented to him, Lysei's vengeance. The creature was a massive dragon who could spew fire wherever it wanted. The fourth creature represented to Emir, his vengeance and was a massive cyclops with a single horn on its head. While it was the simplest creature among them, it was also the most intelligent and versatile. The fifth creature was a medic of sorts, designed to heal any creatures that it could, while flying above the battlefield and kidnapping important targets. The final creature spewed smaller creatures from its stomach, as if they were its children. The creatures flooded from its belly and began to charge at any hobbits nearby. The six issued mighty roars and all at once, started to charge at the Ray Das forces. They would not harm any humans or Krakari, their minds still belonged to Emir and he wanted them on a strict halfling diet for now.

Emir watched from his ship as his monsters wreaked havoc and laughed. "This is turning into the best day of my life!"

Spoiler: Actions

(Major) - Auroran army invades Lot-Vos with the assistance of genners and monsters
(Major) - Research genning of dragons by Auroran genners, with the help of master genners
(Major) - Scout lands between Nova Aurora and Sirigarde for colonisation

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

Khyber, North of Lot-Vos

As Khyber awaited the God's reply, he saw Auroran ships join them. He thought they were merely reinforcements to replace the lost forces but their sudden display, showed them much more than simple soldiers. Creatures made from nothing rose from the earth and began to march on the forces of Ray-Das. This is what he needed. Both of his prayers were answered in such a short time but he didn't dwell on it as he organized the troops. Khyber formed all of his soldiers and took flight.

"Once more, into the fray!" Khyber yelled, leading the soldiers to combat.

Spoiler: Actions

(Major)Invade Ray-Das
(Minor)Use elite unit

 

[drmigit2]

Lysei, 15/15 AP

Today was a special day, Lysei looked into the broken eyes of the slaves and today, instead of filling with hate, his heart filled with excitement. Lysei knew this day would come eventually, and he kept the faces of Aurora's slaves in mind as he struck the earth. Fire emanated from his fists as it entered the dirt, rearranging molecules, he combined atoms to form gold, using his own heat in order to supply the energy required for such a feat. When all was said and done, Lysei had created one of the richest gold mines on the planet, hopefully enough to fund Octavius' strategy. While Lysei was not a fan of giving anything to slavers, it was true that an exchange of gold was better than the deaths of thousands. All this time he expected to have to create a revolt, with the hope that the nobility would be so broken that when he made his move, they simply would give up. Now, it seemed as if his wishes would continue without further bloodshed. This would be a massive victory for him, and the first step to reforming Aurora. Lysei guided a few Aurorans to a nearby creek, where they would pick up some gold flakes flowing from the mine. It was only a matter of time, now.

Spoiler: Actions

Create a gold mine in Aurora: DC: 9 +6 Flames

 

[JoJo]

Emperor Maximus I, Nova Verde, Isle of Maia

After Octavius and Emir departed to prepare for the invasion, Maximus made his way back to the court with Pugsley to see if anything was happening. On arrival he was told that Prince Torus was waiting in the lobby to report on the Channel Islands expedition, Maximus quickly scampered back onto the throne so he would be sitting regally upon it when they entered, stroking his new pet dog.

Torus pushed open the court door and strode into the hall, Aldren walking nervously by his side. Once they reached the throne, the navigator threw himself onto the floor before Maximus and began prostrating himself wildly.

"Your Highness... I mean, your Imperial Majesty!" he stuttered, mixing up terms of address, "It is such a honour to meet your divine countenance,"

"Eh... arise, loyal sailor," the young Emperor said formally, rolling his eyes at the display, before turning to the prince, "What happened out there Torus?"

"We started building the trade post on Cytundeb," Torus replied with a sigh, "but before we could finish, the Luug attacked and destroyed everything. They would have let us stay for an extortionate price for a quarter of our profit, of course it wouldn't be worth that. Better just to go the extra few miles to Xule,"

"Was the island sunk like Cyth'raul said it would be?"

"No, the god changed the terms of the pact in favour of the stonemen."

"How?" Maximus cried out in exasperation, "the god of pacts broke his own pact? I'll never understand these gods..."

"We went south to get supplies, met Emir and then came back. That's it for the expedition, thought there is something else to report however," Torus added, gesturing at Aldren to come forwards. Still nervous, the man opened a box he was carrying and showed Maximus a glowing red orb sitting inside. The boy put his dog down on the floor and then picked the orb out, studying it in his fingers.

"Oh, what is it?" he enthused, "Is it some sort of gem?"

"It's a seeing orb, your Majesty," the navigator replied quietly, "Look really closely and sometimes you'll see a vision of your own future. Maximus dutifully stared into the orb and for a few moments saw nothing, then suddenly blurry images appeared before his eyes as if he was looking through a red-tinted window.

"Huh, that's amazing!" he said after finally tearing his eyes away, "Does what you see really happen?"

"Oh yes," Torus exclaimed, "The orb predicted the Luug attack hours before it occurred, it gave us time to prepare and escape with minimal causalities. This lad here has seen things happen many times after spying them in the orb,"

"I don't understand how it works but I like it," Maximus replied happily, "Aldren, you have to leave the navy and work for me right away, I command it!"

"Your Majesty!" the navigator gasped, falling on the floor at the boy's feet, "Whatever you say, I'll do,"

"Good," the young Emperor smiled with a mischievous look his eyes, "I have a friend who I think would find your orb very useful..."

 

[IFS]

Battle (Cyth'Raul and Krakari section contained here)

The monstrous creatures sent many of the halflings fleeing at the sight of them, not since the days of the old gods had such beasts been permitted to exist. The creatures were three stories tall and each footstep seemed to shake the ground, though their progress slowed as they neared Lot-Vos and the halflings rallied against them. Hails of crossbow and eventually ballista bolts from the walls wore down the monsters and brought them down one by one, though the damage had been done, the armies had been driven back to the walls of their city.

The blessing of the god of whispers settled strongly into Khyber's mind and the Krakari began their push following the Aurorans. Even as the drive to the walls finished they brought in their siege equipment and began their assault, encircling the gates of the city to cut it off from reinforcements and launching their attack at the walls. Unfortunately their weapons and soldiers were more used to open combat than what was required to breach the walls of a city, flying soldiers were shot down and ballista rounds shattered their weaker siege equipment. The whispers warned Khyber to retreat though and at their bidding he did, narrowly pulling his troops from an arrowstorm and preventing greater casualties.

(Lot-Vos is now under siege, Raptor States lost 2 wealth in the attack)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Aurora and Lysei

The scouts, emboldened by the recent success of the settlers and excited by favorable news from the war front performed their tasks expertly returning with well crafted charts and land surveyed and cleared of threats. Better news still was the appearance of a gold mine in their lands, while their lands were still poor in mineral resources overall this mine would no doubt serve to correct that in some measure.

Unfortunately even with Emir's presence the Genners in Aurora remained unable or unwilling to produce the monstrosities desired. Perhaps with more time and effort they would become more capable but for the moment little progress was made.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Luug and Gangari

It was a strange power the god emboldened them with, the ability to act against the actions of gods with the runes, to remove the blights they might attempt to place on the shoulders of mortals. It was expensive as well, but the new runes, the new rituals provided to the Luug seemed to be effective. Knowledge of the new ritual and its workings was quickly spread to the various Luug afflicted by Cyth'Raul's curse, all that remained was to begin the undertaking of performing the ritual.

Working together the mud and moss tribe made fascinating, if foul smelling, advancements in the use and procurement of fertilizers. News of this would have to be spread to the other tribes of course but it could become quite a boon to their food production.

On the isle of Cytundeb the Luug swiftly erected their own trading center from the ruins of the Auroran's own construction. Elements of Auroran architecture even remained in places though overwhelmed and surrounded by the Luug's own building techniques.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ray-Das and Jashiki

The blessing of the water god settled quickly over a number of the halflings as they sat on or behind their walls, bringing shock and amazement to many of them. At last a return to the power they held during the rein of the old gods, taken by some as a clear sign of their eventual victory over the invaders.

Elsewhere the search for the Krakari spy remained fruitless, though reports of various attempted misdeeds continued to find their way to Wolf-Keal. Fortunately the failures to capture the spy or to prevent the sieging of Lot-Vos did not discourage Ray-Das settlers who soon established yet another promising settlement, bringing new and hopefully fertile territory into their control.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sammah Ajihva-Tahna

Secret projects continued as planned, perhaps even more quickly than they could have hoped. In more publicly available news though they saw great success in their scouting endeavors, gaining new knowledge of the land around them and removing what small threats lay within the surveyed regions.

 

[JoJo]

High Prince Octavius, Nova Verde, Isle of Maia

Octavius stood in centre of the Noble Parliament, flanked by his allies Prince Torus and Lord Olin. Emperor Maximus watched the proceedings from a special balcony high above the seats. This perhaps wasn't the perfect time for a vote, at that very moment Katalia was investigating the murder of Vallous, Emir was still somewhere near Lot-Vos, and colonists were departing to secure yet more lands for the Auroran expire, but it was difficult enough to get most of the parliamentarian nobles of Aurora in one place and when Octavius had heard the news that a gold mine had been discovered near the capital, he had seized the opportunity. Before the three nobles lay the law that they were all gathered for.

i) Ownership of one subject by another subject is hereby forbidden in the Holy Auroran Empire, as is the trade of any persons within Aurora. The penalty for doing so after the proclamation of this law shall a fine of up to fifty gold pieces per slave, if the offender is unable to pay then a sentence of up to twenty years hard labour under the Imperial Crown or death shall be passed.

ii) All existing slaves, with the exception of those mentioned in iii), from the signing of this act are to become full serfs and subjects of their local Lord, unless their prior owner was a different noble to their local Lord, in which case they will be subject to this noble instead.

iii) Slaves who were sentenced to that status as a penalty for criminal acts will become bonded workers in service of the Imperial Crown, with the exception of those who have served more than twenty years for their crime already.

iv) All owners of slaves are hereby to be compensated by the Imperial Crown of a sum no less than ten standard gold pieces per male, seven per female and five per infant. Former owners are also compelled to offer optional employment to former slaves, unless granted an exception by the Crown.

"Thank you Lysei for this chance," he prayed silently. The proposed bill had been circulated for several days, generating impassioned debate in the Parliament. Was emancipation an act of freedom, or robbery? Would the slaves fair well once freed, or would they have no idea how to live? Was the proposed compensation high enough? Would there be riots or revenge attacks? These questions and more had been batted back and forth and finally reached a standstill.

"Gentlemen of the realm," Octavius started, "We gather here in this Parliament to vote on a matter close to my heart. Did the Father not say that all men shall be brothers in Aurora? For too long this injustice has been allowed to fester in our lands, driven by greed and resistance from among our ranks for change. Today I ask you to make amends for that," the Prince Regent looked pointedly around the chamber, "Let it be proclaimed from every mountain that the air of Aurora is too pure for a slave to breathe, in every nation that ours is the only one where the laws are truly just, in every heart that the Father guides us to ever greater heights. Gentlemen, all I ask for is your vote today,"

First the 'yay' votes were called for, then the 'nays'. Each were totalled up by High Prince Hwan, who had been designated as the Speaker of the House for that day. Finally he called for quiet so the results could be announced.

"254 yays to 170 nays, the bill passes."

An almighty cheer roses from the benches, those who voted against slinking away angrily as the successful nobles congratulated each other. Octavius, Torus and Olin shared a victory dance as Maximus was carried down from his balcony in a sedan chair, a golden quill and ink pot at the ready.

"Your Imperial Majesty," Ocatvius beamed, "The Noble Parliament would like to present you with this bill with a request for Imperial assent," Technically as Regent Octavius could have signed it himself, but being proclaimed by the Emperor would give the controversial law an extra air of legitimacy and Maximus himself had been perfectly amenable to the idea once Octavius had explained the law to him.

"Assent granted," Maximus smiled as he scribbled his name at the bottom of the bill, in an instant transforming the paper scroll into Auroran law.

"That's my boy!" Octavius laughed. Within the hour the proclamation had been made from the palace, the news spreading as fast as a horse could run across the nation. Some slaves celebrated on hearing of their emancipation, others worried about what the future would hold now they would have to fend to themselves, for all concerned however it was the beginning of a new chapter in Auroran history.

.​

General Omar, Lot-Vos

"Drink up!" the General laughed, pouring another round of whale oil for his officers. A camp had been formed along with the Krakari outside the walls of Lot-Vos, they had a hard task ahead breaching the walled city but the men were in high spirits after their victory on the ocean.

"Tejas Omar, I almost thought you didn't have it in you any-more," Captain Fallan chuckled in reply, "What's the plan now then?"

"Ah," General Omar replied, rolling out a map in front of the officers, "Tomorrow morning we make a dawn raid on their battlements, right in these three locations, which should be easier to penetrate due to the city receiving regular traffic through those. Once we're inside, we hit them hard, we hit them fast, we keep hitting until they give in. How's that sound for a plan?"

"Sounds good to me," another officer slurred, almost dropping the glass in his hand, "To the Empero... and to tomorrow!"

"To tomorrow!" Omar and others repeated, clinking their glasses together in good cheer.

.​

Emperor Kaius III, ???, Isle of Verde

"What is your name?" Kaius asked the navigator with a hint of suspicion. The young man be thoroughly searched by Lord Cassian but had come up clean, all that he carried was a wooden box and a coded letter of approval. The seal on the letter was unambiguously the secret one Kaius had agreed with Maximus beforehand so he decided he was probably safe... one never could tell for sure though.

"Aldren Timberlake, sir," the man replied nervously, fidgeting with his fingers, "Are you really the old Emperor, sir?"

"Still the current one, actually," Kaius replied sternly, "There's no tradition of deposition in this realm, or even abdication for that matter. Legally until the day I die I am still the one sovereign Emperor, although I am allowing my younger brother to use the title of Emperor as my heir and representative while I am unable to rule directly. It follows that any laws that are not signed freely by my brother are null and void, for that matter."

"Eh, okay," Aldren said slowly, the technical details flying over his head.

"So, why were you sent here?" Kaius asked briskly.

"To show you this, sir," The navigator opened the wooden box to reveal a glowing crimson orb glittering in the darkness.

"What is that?" Kaius inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"The orb lets you see the future sir, if you look into it for long enough,"

Kaius picked up the orb and stared long and hard into it's depths, his face going through a range of emotions as he watched glimpses of the future happen before his eyes. Finally, he tore his eyes away from the orb and handed it back to the navigator.

"We leave Verde tomorrow for the mainland, it is time. Notify our allies Cassian, and don't forget the water-benders this time."

The Emperor walked out of the room without saying another word, Lord Cassian and Aldren looked at each other.

"Well, I guess we'll be going with him then?" the old diplomat shrugged.

Spoiler: Actions

(Major) - Continue / repeat the research genning of dragons by Auroran genners, with the help of master genners.
(Major) - Attack and break through the siege of Lot-Vos.
(Major) - Colonise land between Nova Aurora and Sirigarde previously scouted.

 

[Gabanuka]

Grand AJivha: Chamber of the Vazin


Ayasa-Vazin

His metal face looked over its assembled subjects. Before his eyes were gathered the most powerful of his land; the ruling families, the wealthiest merchants, his generals and his mages. All ready to serve their nation.

There had been mixed reactions to the nature of the Vazin's new body. Those with a religious mind were in awe, after all he was the culmination of all their god's work; a thing of fire, iron and rune. Yet still there were many who were clearly uneasy with their metallic leader; though those who dared speak it aloud were swiftly dealt with.

The Ayasa-Vazin was seated on the hall's chair, now reinforced to take the weight of his new body. Even in his state between life and death old habits remained. It was the first council since the end of his self-imposed exile, though he had tried to keep up to date while in his tower it was difficult to keep track of the world in notes. HIs general had just returned the successful scout reports,now the War-Minister was concluding his summary of the conflict to the north.

'... the gods are at work my lord Vazin, armies rise from the earth, beasts march upon cities. We estimate the RayDas have little time before they are all but defeated.'

The Vazin's steel gaze was focused on the plump old man, as expected he flinched. They always flinched. Mechanical joints made all the Vazin's moves sudden.

'And neither side has reached out to us? No calls for help or cries for war?'

'None my lord, as it stands we have been free to act as we desire these past few months. It seems that both sides are content with their allies.'

The Minister could not hide the disappointment on his face; raiders from the south had all but stopped and the man had found himself even fatter than he was before.

'Good.'

With that word the War-Minister was dismissed and the Ayasa-Vazin focused his attention on another, the cogs in his neck gave a small tight and he turned. A young Genner from the University.

'How fairs our work with the golems?'

Agni had been placed in charge of the Vazin's most recent endeavour, him a group of smiths and Artificers. The youth was clearly nervous, his voice was clear but soft.

'Very well my lord. The process of your own... transformation, gave us a lot to work with. There are issues with numbers but I'm sure we will work something out.'

'Excellent'

The youth returned to his cushion.

With no one left to see the Vazin gave his orders.

'Agni, you and your men continue as planned. The rest of you must now focus on our new cities.'

At once a sea of voices raised in protest, despite their port to the north his people were still uneasy with the idea of more settlements. The Vazin rose from his chair, 7ft of steel towering over the floor bound councillors.

'Silence. Need I remind you of our future? Ajivha is the light. When the way is dark the light must grow, lest it be snuffed out and all lose their way.'

Spoiler: Actions

More secrets
Settle the South-East by the lake (Ajivha-Savora)
Settle the West near the in-land sea (Ajivha-Maric)

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

Cawles, The University

With the recent discovery of more advanced chemical reactions, Cawles thought they were finally making progress. She had heard of the battles being fought along the coast and the difficulties they were facing with the invasion. She also heard of the walls that guarded Lot-Vos so Cawles set herself with working on a way to get through the walls altogether. She remembered the day that Qartoq descended on Silverclaw. She conjured a ferocious storm unlike anything she had ever seen. The thunder and lighting that shook walls. Now that Qartoq was gone, Cawles wondered if she could recreate that same effect.

But before she was able to look into it any further a messenger came for her. Someone wanted her presence so she left her ideas on her table and hurried. Her dark robes trailed behind Cawles as she was led to a room in the large University.

She was taken to the Runeitry, a complex set up on one of the Universities deepest levels. Depth was no limitation on a god, the room was huge easily daunting any other department's. Only the best for Gangari's favorites. At a workbench near the hall's back stood Indraj-Alika, Demiurge of Gangari.
Cawles' footsteps echoed in the empty halls, all the other disciples had returned home for a rest. Indraj raised his head.

'Ah, Cawles? Forgive me for not contacting you sooner. It seems Gangari has something for you only I can supply'

Despite only hearing about the God, she never quite met the God himself but she did know that he had a certain affinity for knowledge.

"Oh, what could that be, Demiurge?" Cawles asked curiously. She had already been contacted by one God before so she should have been used to such by now.

The Demiurge offered the Krakari a seat, or rather a stool given the furnishings of the workshop.

'My God is looking to expand his influence; he want me to grant you the powers of an Arch-Artificer and make the rest of your friends Artificer. Bringing you into the fold so to speak. Apparently there's no religious obligation behind it though I doubt he'd be happy if you didn't thank him in some way.

Anyway, the choice is yours. Though really there doesnt seem to be a downside.'

Cawles pondered the offer as she always used to do. No doubt this would be incredibly helpful to their cause and the advancement of science. She also wondered how it would impact her powers as it is. With a heavy sigh, Cawles nodded her head.

"I'll accept it." Cawles said. "Gangari has gifted us this place of learning. If this is to help me learn then I'll be happy to oblige."

'Wonderful, always nice to have more Artificers'

He rose from his seat and gestured for Cawles to do the same.

'Naturally the Ruenitry will be available to you. We are a smithy as much as a place of runes, if you want I can get one of my apprentices to show you a thing or two at the forge.'

With a gesture Indraj began a his tour.

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Khyber, Outside Lot-Vos

The ruins of soldiers and siege engines alike littered the outskirts of the city. Khyber looked from his siege lines, listening to the whispers that came with the God's pact. The whispers gave advice and lessons so the only thing he had to do was pick out from the whispers but the problem was that there were so many of them at times. When they attacked, he was smart to listen to the right advice and pull back his troops before he could take any more losses but the city was still in the hands of the halflings.

"Commander Khyber!" A captain called out to him, interrupting his meditation. That was what the soldiers were calling him now ever since he received his gift.

"Yes, what is it?" Khyber said, breaking out of his whispers.

"A messenger came bringing word of a new discovery within the university. They claim to have discovered ways to start fires from clay pots. We could use this to burn the city to the ground." The captain eagerly said.

"We want to keep most of the city intact. I have no taste for pillaging as these halflings do but that is welcome news." Khyber said. Then a new surge of whispers came to his ears that suggested a new tactic.

Fire from above...

"Also, our Auroran allies are pressing a new attack. Should we join them?" The captain ask. Khyber hesitate and thought of the course of action. For an attack to succeed either more monsters would have to rise out of the murky blue or a divine intervention would have to occur but the Krakari valued their trading partners and not joining the attack would cause friction between the two nations. A strong bond must be formed in this war and not more bickering strife. This is what the Krakari needed and not the squawking back at home with the elders. For now, he pushed that thought aside and looked to the walls. He had a city to take or die trying.

Spoiler: Actions

(Major)Implement Fire bombs
(Major)Improve Siege tactics-Aerial fire bombing
(Major)Join Auroran attack