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

[Rogue Trooper]

King Edgar, Mereton Royal Court

Court was in attendance. Instead of the usual sounds of laughter, music and talk which on any common day would fill the king?s hall were instead replaced with silence, as everyone in attendance from the lowest courtier to the highest noble listened attentively to the words of the lone reservist soldier who stood before the King. The news of the large scale raid which had been launched by the rebel river tribesmen on the southern lands had spread fast and was met with universal anger and demands for vengeance by many nobles and common folk. The news of the raid quickly became a very popular point of conversation within court and debates of what sort of action the king should take against the vile riders was frequently discussed.

Upon hearing of the attack the king had demanded that a witness of the event if possible, should come to the capital and debrief him personal on what transpired on that fateful evening. The reservist whom stood before the court was one such witness and having arrived only just early this morning the young soldier expected that he would only be talking to the king and possible his closest nobles as well, which for a humble farmer by trade would be a nerve racking experience; as it is not every day that a member of the common folk talks to his king. But unfortunately upon his arrival the soldier was told to address the whole court instead of just the king.

The king himself had at first intended to give a private audience to the reservist, but unfortunately the increase in conversation within court about the raid had been noticed by the king and instead he decided that the reservist?s tale would be heard by all those in attendance. The matter was one of public interest and the king hoped that the reservist?s tale may shed some light on the matter and ease the concerns of his nobles.

Unfortunately however the reservist?s tale done none of that

The tale that the reservist told the court was one of violence and unexplained events. More questions were asked than answered and a profound sense of mystery hung over the reservists? words, as he explained the events he saw. The court which had formed into two crowds at either side of the hall listened with interest at what was being told. The king who sat on his throne also listened and he was joined by Queen Aileen and Princess Hild who sat on either side of him.

??then suddenly?fire rained down from the skies and engulfed the whole village, I?ve never seen anything like it before my king?. Several nobles gasped in shock, but the king gestured for the soldier to continue and he did so ?After that, the village was burning for several hours. I was guarding the walls with the last few men that were left, so I saw the whole thing?.

?What happened to the rest of the men?? the king asked ?Surely there were more of you manning the Bruh?s defences?

?There was my king, but captain Aesc took the majority of us to combat the raiders and clear the way for those villager to get to the safety of the bruh.?

?What became of captain Aesc??

?Dead my king along with the men he led into the village?

?How unfortunate?

?But his actions my king he allow a number of the villagers including my brother to get to the bruh. I owe him much?

The king nodded and once again gestured for the soldier to continue

?Well after the village caught fire my king it eventually settled after a number of hours, but what happened next I?don?t how to describe it?the village just disappeared?

?What do you mean disappeared??

?Trees my king, trees sprouted out of the ground fully grown and covered the area. The black scorched earth was replaced by green and within a few short minutes it was like the village never existed?

A wave of awe and disbelieve washed over the court as neither king nor noble knew how to respond to the soldiers words. A brief moment of silence set in before the king could muster a response.

?These are strange words reservist, are you sure this is what you saw??

?On my life my king I swear to you I?m telling the truth?

?Very well? the king replied ?I proper response must be giving to the rebel river tribesmen for their attack and the nature of what took place must be investigated? he announced rising from his throne. ?Marshal Deorwine, I believe that last we spoke I ordered you to muster a force to combat these raids, have you done so??

?Yes my king? the marshal spoke stepping forward ?I was prepared to lead them south until word of this tragedy arrived at court. I decided to stay in the event you wanted more from me?

?No changes from my previous commands marshal. You will leave with your forces at sunrise tomorrow, understood?? The marshal bowed and returned to his previous place in the crowd.

?As for this new forest which has sprouted up a trustworthy man must be sent to investigate the nature of this anomaly.Captain Wulfric?

?Sir? the HouseCarl captain replied banging his armoured fist of his mailed chest and outstretching it in salute. ?Who?s your best man?? the king asked. ?That would be HouseCarl Osmund sir? the captain replied gesturing to an armoured figure stationed at the side of the hall who upon hearing his name also banged his fist off his chest and outstretched it in salute.

?Osmund, you will lead a team to investigate this forest and hopefully shed some light on this strange turn of events. You will leave at sun rise tomorrow with Marshal Deorwine?s forces, is that clear??

?Yes my king?

?Now my lords and ladies I consider the matter settled, for now. If there are any other issues that you wish to bring to my attention now is the time? On these words an Earl stepped forward papers in hand to talk to the king about his intended issue. However the Earl?s advance was stopped by a voice familiar to the king.

?Father May I make a request? the voice was that of princess Hild and hearing his daughters words the king turned his attention towards her, the court likewise done so as well. Seeing that she had the attention of her father and the court princess Hild continued ?I would request father that I could accompany HouseCarl Osmund and his party down south to see this forest for myself, if you would allow it?

?Why would you want to do such a thing daughter?? the king spoke frowning "The southern lands are dangerous and no place for a child"

The princess smiled at her father "I am not a child father but a women, a women who simple wishes to visit the poor people that survived the horrid attack so that I may pay my respects?

The king's expression lighted at his daughters words. Whether or not Hild actually wanted to visit the site to give some comfort to the victims was unclear, but her request had some advantages. Edgar himself knew that the appearance of royalty may in some way help to ease the people's woes; as it would show the common folk that their plights are not forgotten by their leaders. Hild was also a kind girl and maybe she truly did want to offer some comfort to the affect people.

However Hild was still his daughter, a princess of Mereton and the south was a dangerous place to be. The king knew that his daughter was a capable fighter, she had even bested some of the more experienced HouseCarls. But to allow her to go to a troubled area would be reckless and dangerous, but for Hild these words would mean little. The princess had a rebellious streak within her, something which the king could see she gained from her mother, and if he said no Edgar knew his daughter would leave regardless. Perhaps allowing her to go would be the best option the king thought pondering over the request that way her HouseCarls could keep a better eye on her. After several moments of though the king reached his conclusion

?Very well Hild I give you permission to accompany Osmund?s party, your personal company will follow you of course. HouseCarl I expect you to look after my daughter and ensure her safety as well as completing your main task, is that understood??

?By my Oath my king I shall not fail you?

Spoiler: Actions

-Scout territory to the east for colonization
-Research horse collar: Replaces the use of oxen?s in ploughing with horses. Horses are faster and have more endurance which allows for the quicker planting of crops and more land to be farmed (Increases food production)

 

[JoJo]

Wen Sung, the Xule Games

Wen shuffled along through the crowded stadium, Opal in hand behind him and Suko ahead looking for a trio of free seats together. In the aftermath of the regular searches on Oileán Uisce it had made sense to leave the island for a while and Xule seemed like the prime location, with immigrants from all over Aurora and the hubbub of the upcoming Games few would notice a pair of confirmed bachelors and their adopted daughter among the throngs.

Information about Opal had come out in bits and pieces, it had taken days after the rescue for her to even begin speaking. She seemed to originate from Medegarde and spoke vaguely a mother and father, little about her recent history or why she was being pursued. Wen had come to notice other odd habits about the girl, she seemed particularly fond of red meat and despite a lack of communication most of the time, unusually articulate for her age when she did speak. He was determined to solve the puzzle, however long it would take.

Presently the group found three seats and the crowd hushed to quiet as they sat down, music was beginning to play around the stadium. Dancers from the thirteen ethnic groups of Aurora took their turn to present displays of acrobatics and rhythm, circling around so every side of the crowd could get a close up view. As they drew away there were shrieks and shouts as giant reptilians suddenly swooped only the colosseum, the dragon's leathery wings casting shadows and they dived and soared in coordinated patterns under the command of their riders, even trailing red, blue and white smoke behind them.

Finally they vanished from sight and the crowd fell silent again as a man wearing red and gold robes appeared in the distance in the middle of the stadium. Many of the watchers bowed their heads or covered their eyes, some even threw themselves on the ground and prostrated wildly in reverence.

"That's the Emperor!" Wen whispered excitedly to Opal, "I knew him he was just a boy barely older than you, I served his elder brother Kaius III," He thought it wise to leave out exactly how he'd served the former Emperor. Maximus began to make a speech, relayed by a group of men standing in a circle around the stadium so the entire crowd could hear. He thanked them for their presence, offered a toast to the athletes and finally a prayer to the various gods honoured by the Aurorans and their allies before returning to a special stand at the front of the stadium. Wen could only just make out the figures but he thought he saw the King of Ajivha and the Archduke of Samosa alongside the Emperor, as well as representatives from the Kratari, Driders and another group of humans he didn't recognise.

Then the games themselves began, the first day would be sprint races. The crowd was excited and cheered all of the contestants, two crowd favourites were a bronzed Kashimi man and a spindly Drider from the Raptor States. Eventually the man was victorious, much to the pleasure of the mainly Auroran crowd, but all delegations remained in good spirit regardless of their wins or losses.

.​

Emperor Maximus I, Palace of Nations, Isle of Xule

After Maximus' speech at the opening of the Games, he returned to the Palace of Nations and to his pleasure heard that the Krakari were ready to speak with him. Once the dragons displayed earlier had been safely stowed away in a reinforced stone stable and he'd settled down in the Palace meeting room he had a note sent inviting his allies to meet him there for a drink.

The note was received just as Khyber and Aerith were inspecting the newest shipment of Carbines to replace their block-like rifles. These were newer and despite its short barrel, they still would deliver a deadly bullet given they were in the right hands.

"Commander Khyber!" One of his men said, approaching the pair. "We have a note from the Emperor!"

"Its about time." Aerith said anxiously, putting away a carbine and reading the note. "This looks genuine, what do you think?"

"The word of an Emperor is a hard one to ignore." Khyber said, glancing at the note. "Especially one with the seal." Khyber pointed out. "Let's go shall we?"

With just a few words, Khyber, Aerith and a few members of his personal guard set off with one in over-watch, shadowing the main party. The party reached the Palace without any issue besides glances that the Palace guards gave at their new firearms. Khyber and Aerith relinquished their weapons before being lead into the large and spacious meeting room of the Palace. Upon seeing the Emperor himself, both of them bowed to him.

"It is an honor to meet you, Emperor." Khyber said.

"Call me Maximus," the Emperor nodded with a smile at their clumsy decorum, "It's good to see you here, have a drink,"

A servant walked in, offering a selection of liquors to the Krakari. Maximus took one himself and placed it on his desk after taking a sip.

"Now some time has passed since the end of the long war, I think it's time to discuss the Trade Federation," he started, "Even though the Ray-Das have been put in their place for now, it is still a dangerous world out there. I propose the Federation forms a full mutual defence pact, so an attack on one of our states is considered an attack on both. What do you think?"

"My people appreciate the sentiment." Khyber said, politely refusing the drink offered to them. "In this day and age, even our spies would be hard-pressed to find enemies willing to take on our nations but nonetheless, I see your logic. A formal pact between our nations would cement our holdings in this changing world. What do you say, Aerith?"

Khyber looked to Aerith who seemed surprised by Khyber's sudden passing of the matter to her but she recovered swiftly.

"The Trade Federation needs to be strong especially with the loss of the Ajivhan Empire." Aerith said in a composed matter. "A pact would be most wise, Emperor."

"Perfect," Maximus smiled, relieved at the quick agreement, "There is one other matter I must put to you. Have you heard about the new Kingdom of Mereton that has been found to the south? The Driders too are on the verges of creating their own state down there, from what I've been told. I would like to invite them and possibly the Corvans at some point to join the Trade Federation to ensure we all have sufficient new markets to access. Would you agree with this endeavour?"

"I hope you can understand my inhibitions but I wouldn't be so keen on trusting a nation to join our Federation so quickly. We are in a precarious position of impacting most of this world as we know it." Khyber said. "Why seek to control the market when the influence of nations should be our goal?"

"True," the Emperor nodded, "I can understand your hesitance, my own Lord Deputy had a similar viewpoint to yours. Perhaps however we could offer some trade links with these new nations, to test the waters as it were? Such measures could always be rescinded later, if they turn out unwise,"

"That would be wiser, yes..." Khyber nodded his head in agreement. "If they are worthy enough to join our Federation then it will be known. Otherwise we must wary of who to trust these days. Also my people have a gift for you. Before I entered the meeting room I told men to fetch a box of forty of our newest firearms known as Carbines. I recommend arming your most trusted guards with these weapons."

"Thank you," Maximus took a short appreciative bow, "I have heard only a little of these new 'fire arms' but I'm sure my guards will be able to work them out," He stood up, offering his hand to the Kratari, "I believe it is late, this conversation has been productive however. Take my well wishes to your compatriots who remain in the Raptor States,"

Khyber got up from his seat, stealthily taking a note from his pocket and placing it in his hand before shaking the Emperor's. He gripped the Maximus' hand firmly. "Make sure they do not fall into the wrong hands."

Khyber left the room with Aerith following close behind. In the Emperor's hand, the note read: A favor for a favor. I seek a Krakari slave. His name was Yoren Oscen. Any information will do.

Maximus' turned to a nearby attendant.

"Send for the Lord Seer Aldren, I have a task for him,"

.​

Queen Amatia, somewhere near Oileán Uisce

Meanwhile, far to the east the Queen of Aurora stood aboard her small ship, searching for the shore of Oileán Uisce through the stormy weather. Around her sailors heaved and scurried across the deck, one stopped by her for a moment.

"Are yer alright yer Majesty? Would yer not prefer to be in yer dry cabin?"

"It's fine Sam," she replied to the bearded sailor with a smile, "It's different, well, nice being out here,"

"Okay," he muttered and disappeared off. She took to watching the swirling seas again, blinking as she saw lights in the distance. As they came closer she realised it was another ship, smaller than even hers but somehow ducking and diving safely over the waves. The flag of the Ray-Das was flying from it's mast. A shout came from the crow's nest as the sailors noticed too and began to prepare themselves for any bow waves. As the vessel came closer however it suddenly turned and drew alongside the Queen's ship.

"Quick, to the cabins yer Majesty!" the cry came but before Amatia had time to react tiny figures were jumping and swinging from ropes onto the deck, leaping upon the hapless sailors in moments. Red blood splashed across the floor as the Queen stumbled across the floor but small hands soon grasped her and pulled her back, a sack being placed over her head before she could see any more. As she felt herself being dragged away she heard the torturous cries of the sailors being massacred and prayed at-least one would survive before unconsciousness crept up on her.

Spoiler: Actions, part 1

(Major) - Settle land west of Ajivha

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

Khyber and Aerith, Xule

"You did what?!" The steward stammered when he was told of what Khyber had done to their newest weapons shipment.

"They are our allies. If you did not expect me to pay tribute where tribute is due then you barely know me." Khyber said, shouldering past the shocked steward.

"Khyber, those weapons were meant for our men. For your men!" The steward said, throwing his stout arms around in an exaggerated manner. "These are the soldiers who are supposed to care for your life. Do you not want them to be armed with the best we can offer? Those carbines are not cheap and you shouldn't be tossing them around to every acquaintance you've made in this damn city!"

"Are you saying my men aren't adequately trained or they lack experience?" Khyber said, turning to the stout Krakari. Several of Khyber's soldiers looked up from cleaning their weapons and grinned at the fat steward. "I must reiterate; you do not know me as much as you claim you do. Tell Dehl that his petty threats do not worry me." Khyber said dismissively as he went to his desk and began perusing reports of Severyn but the pesky steward was not one to be ignored of which Khyber had some respect for.

"I don't work for Dehl, I work for the States!" The steward said, pointing his finger at Khyber's face obviously flustered at the recent turn of events but as soon as he did so several of Khyber's men closed the distance in less than a heartbeat with swords to the Krakari's back. Khyber waved them off but the steward was unable to move, gripped by fear.

"Then tell the States that we need our allies more than ever. We must give them what they payed for in blood. I've seen the bravery and sacrifice of the Auroran soldiers on those burning tides. For every ship lost, they surged forward ten steps ahead of my men. These are brave men willing to fight to the death for those they consider worthy. It is only fitting that our soldiers join theirs on the firing lines." Khyber said in a calm voice but witha burning in his eyes. Aerith noticed this as she watched the comical confrontation. She saw the legendary Khyber Kraai speak with the fury of Lysei only through his eyes. Now she truly knew why his men followed him like they did. The fire in the Commander's eyes was inescapable. "Aerith, fetch a messenger. I need a few letters delivered to the council. Proposals if you wish to know. You can read it if you want, Rheger." Khyber offered his hand but the Steward was still too frightened to move so Khyber withdrew it. "It concerns the carbines, they're all fine but I want something more accurate. The barrel could use some fixing. Also when I visited the Emperor, they asked us to hand over our firearms and I was struck with an idea. Imagine fire at the palm of our hands."

But the steward was still frozen in place as Aerith fetched the letter from Khyber who sat himself in his seat. He sighed deeply before telling his bodyguards to escort the steward out of his temporary office. After Aeirth delivered the letters to a trusted messenger, she returned to Khyber to see him looking out the window as the crowds cheered. It had hardly occurred to her that she hadn't actually watched the games as they progressed. Now that she could finally listen to the background of the busy city, she heard the crowds cheer on the athletes as they competed in the games. It must have been a tremendous spectacle to see the athletes compete and she could tell that Khyber was thinking that as well.

"Anything else you need, Khyber?" Aerith asked, speaking up albeit wearily as Khyber remained unmoved as the Steward was, staring outside as the ocean breeze blew in.

"The Emperor mentioned a new group of humans when we talked yesterday." Khyber recalled. "If I was betting man then I would bet that at least some of them would be watching the games."

"Aren't all military commanders betters?" Aerith innocently quipped. "After all, sometimes taking a chance can spell victory or defeat."

"So now you think you know me?" Khyber asked before turning. He fetched his sword and a few things, making for the door. "Let's go, we've got some games to watch."

Spoiler: Actions

(Major)Research-Fine, rifled barrels: another combat bonus but double the wealth to implement
(Major)Research-Small mechanical parts

 

[JoJo]

Emperor Maximus I, Palace of Nations, Isle of Xule

"Tell me it cannot be true," Maximus had known something was wrong the moment Lord Omar had walked through the door, the nervous way he held himself was not at-all in the way the celebrated former General of the Siege of Lot-Vos was usually accustomed to.

"I'm very sorry your Imperial Majesty," Omar quavered, "The two reports we received were indisputable: three days ago the Ray-Das abducted Queen Amatia. There was only one survivor of the attack, a sailor by the name of Sam, he was crystal clear about what happened. Even saw her Majesty being grabbed with his own eyes."

"What, how was this not forseen?" the Emperor exclaimed angrily, turning to Lord Aldren.

"I afraid I don't choose what the orb shows me," the Lord Seer sighed sadly, "You know that Maximus, the same issue occured in the days of the Cassian Revolution,"

Maximus smashed his hand down on his throne arm in anger, he knew Aldren was right. A thousand possible terrible fates of his wife ran through his head, who know what those brutes might be doing?

"What have the Ray-Das to say about this?" he asked sharply.

"So far, no reply. No ultimatum or anything, they're as silent as the grave,"

The court turned to Maximus, expectant for a reply. The crushing weight of authority hit the Emperor at that point, unlike King Indraj or Lord Deputy Olin or even his own son, he had no-one to surrender a difficult decision to. When asked to choose between many lives he knew nothing of and one who he would give the world for, how could one make that choice? He remembered his brother's noble sacrifice for the stability of his nation but could he do the same?

"Papa?" Maximus looked down to see his son Aurelius looking up at him tearfully, "When am I going to see Mama again?"

The Emperor took in a deep breath, in his heart he'd known his decision for since he'd heard the grave news several minutes ago.

"This is the last straw, rally our forces," he said simply, "We must show no quarter until the Queen is safely returned and the Ray-Das never again threaten the security of our Commonwealth. Send everything we have, it was a mistake to think that they would accept the status quo after Lot-Vos. Notify our allies too."

The court emptied at ministers rushed to send urgent messages out and prepare the armies of Aurora to descend upon it's unwitting southern neighbour. Maximus retired to his room and sunk in despair to his knees, clasping his hands in silent prayer.

"Lysei, wherever you are, please return of my wife to safety and help our army secure our lands once and for all,"

Spoiler: Action, part 2

(Major) - Invade and secure a foothold in Ray-Das territory using mobile army (includes some of the Emperor's Drider Guard)
(Major) - Raise a second mobile army using five wealth
(Minor) - Deploy elite troops: dragon riders and sea vampires along with mobile army
(Minor) - Invite the assistance of the Raptor States
(Minor) - Pray to Lysei

 

[Anti-American Eagle]

Gangari, 9/15 AP

A failure... Another failure, he would need to try that again soon. Clean the idea and improve upon it.

Though he felt shifts in the mortal realm he decided that this Auroran affair wasn't his business. He felt cause behind it and that was enough for today. Once they started there was little he could do to stop them.

Thinking of Aurora reminded him he would need to visit his followers in that land again and visit the schools he had founded. No matter how much time he spent amongst the mortals if he even rested for a moment time slipped through his fingers. A grand absence as some of his less faithful followers had called it. For every good he did he couldn't stop the bad.

The most he could do was help the mortals along and hope they found hope in his gifts.

Work in the university continued as it always had. His daughter had said little to him though during his last few visits. She was always working on something that defied logic. An instrument composed of herself for studying herself seemed like it would give inaccurate observations but what she recorded was accurate. Arcane tools for... he didn't know even when her mind was readable. Her thoughts came as melancholy on most occasions and there was little he could do for her.

He ended his musings rather abruptly as he heard an echo in the distance. Lysei wanted to speak.

[hr]

Rederick, Rederick's Rest.

His letter had been sent months ago, but no response yet. A party of scouts had been sent to await them at the border along the planned path, but they hadn't reported either.

He went back to reading his reports. Yish'Tai tribes were beginning to join with them, he could see them from his window working beside his craftsmen on expanding and fortifying the settlement. Though none had bothered to officially name their new home, most had taken to calling it Rederick's Rest. A joke about how long he had spent out of the field.

Of course he had spent time out of the field. Work needed to be done that he couldn't trust to his administrators. The swamps could be tamed by the Legion.

After he felt caught up with the developments of the day he went back to his writings only to hear a knock upon his door.

Annoyed he spoke "Enter."

A legionary officer stepped in and saluted before speaking "Sir, Cawles just crossed the border."

Rederick smiled and spoke "Good, when she arrives guide her here. We have much to speak of."

The legionary saluted once again and then walked away. Rederick cleared his desk and began spreading operational documents across it in preparation for Cawles arrival.

Spoiler: Gangari's Action

-Assist Lysei

Spoiler: Collective's Actions

First Major - Send Diplomats to The Raptor States

Second Major - Establish Justiciar based Inquisition in Collective Territory for the purpose of counter-espionage.

Third Major - Research camouflaged fortifications with assistance of Yish'Tai populations (Defence Tech). University and Nation bonuses are applied.

Minor - Appoint Cawles Strix of The Raptor States High Priestess of the Collective.

Minor - Begin construction of a proper temple to replace the current shrine to Gangari.

 

[drmigit2]

Lysei/Gangari /Saranda
As Lysei watched his castle crumble, likely due to bad lava, he thought to himself about alternatives. After all, a castle is fairly simple. In fact, he could very likely just include it in something he had intended to do for a long time. The final gift he could offer to the Driders for a time, a home. His race had been living nomadically for quite a while now, he planned to change that.

There was however, the simple issue of logistics. Making such a home would take a significant investment in power, one he simply could no longer reliably pull off. Lysei looked into the sky and sighed. He would need to call in a favor for this.

"Gangari," Lysei began "I request your assistance on a matter important to me." A simple message would do for this, it wasn't like he was asking Gangari to kill another god for him.

Gangari appeared a few feet infront of Lysei and smiled. "It's been a long time.?

"It has, but now is the time to show our faces again. My race needs a home, a real home. I can not build it alone, however." Lysei looked outward and said "I will help you with anything you need, within reason of course, if you aid me in this endeavor."

"That's fair. Where do you have in mind?"

"They have been scouting south of the Collective's settlement. Food is in abundance there, and that is their most crucial resource." Lysei cracked his knuckles and smiled. "They are having difficulty in settling, and besides, I think something creative instead of destructive is due."

"Agreed. Let's begin then.?

And so it was, that Lysei called to the Driders of Ellisandre?s Matrony. They came in droves, through the desert and over mountains, they were undaunted. Partially due to their physiology, and partially due to Gangari?s guidance. It was only after the last Driders came, bearing the immobile Matron Ellisandre, that the construction began. First, Lysei brought forth metals of the earth and forged them for the Driders, and Gangari then taught them how to bend their resources to fit. Through the months, the gods took a more passive role, wiping the memory of direct contact from the Driders, allowing them to appreciate their own efforts, and not attribute them solely to the gods.

Because Lysei and Gangari merely guided the hands of the Driders, the mortals found themselves able to form their own identity. They made a library, with a great obsidian dome at the top. Obsidian itself quickly became a favorite material for the Driders, as it so closely resembled their own chitin. While it was difficult to gather large amounts, the library and great temple each had a considerable amount of it.

The temple itself was carved from the inside of a small mountain made of granite nearby the soon to be named capitol of Onchesmos, the Driders carved from the hill a massive temple which was plated with Obsidian. It became a beacon that attracted Driders from every which way. The Temple had many different floors, services and had been built to spiral inwards, with great statues of Lysei and Gangari in the middle of the massive building. The statues were too, made of obsidian. There even existed below the surface, rooms that were unknown to mortals. Lysei directly influenced entire teams of Driders to create for him a court room. It would not be as grand as a castle, but in retrospect, he hardly needed something so gaudy as a castle. A room would do fine.

When all was complete, and several cities had been made, the nation of Saranda was said to have been born. Soon, new Matrons would prop up, and they would help to further populate the lands. Ellisandre stayed within the capitol of Onchesmos, and had her own home made within the temple itself. There, she continues to create new life to further the Drider?s ambitions. Katalia however, was nowhere to be found.


Katalia

Lysei had not so much as spoken to Katalia in the years he remained dormant. So when he sent to her instructions to reclaim the Empress of Aurora, she was more than a little surprised. Of course he did not directly reveal himself to her, he simply stated that she would find Salonian Driders headed her way and that they would aid her in recovering Maximus? wife. Katalia knew enough, she would do as she was told. The Empress would be free from the clutches of the Ray Das.

Spoiler: Actions

Driders:
Settle Lysei?s location: Major (auto-succeed)
Store food: Major
Store food: Major

 

[Drummodino]

Drya - Forest Grove, Kingdom of Mereton 10/15 AP

The rapid growth of the forest grove was frankly astonishing. Hardwood trees that should have taken years to reach maturity stretched towards the sky, while various smaller plants, animals and insects flourished beneath them. When the weather was fine the sun's rays peeked through, illuminating the natural beauty of the forest. A truly magical atmosphere of calm and tranquility permeated the area.

Drya smiled as she wandered through her creation, extremely pleased with the results. This would be a good temporary home for her when she wasn't out travelling the world, a place where she could feel safe and find joy from her surroundings, away from the terrible noise and pandemonium of civilization. For the first time since she ascended to godhood, Drya truly felt that she had somewhere she belonged.

There was still one thing missing however. The grove needed a guardian, someone to watch over and protect it in her absence. An idea flourishing in her mind, Drya closed her eyes and weaved her magic once more. She suspected she would be receiving visitors soon, they would need a proper welcoming reception.

Spoiler: Action

-Creating or altering a one-off living creature smaller than an elephant.

Drya attempts to create a sabre tooth tiger, six feet long, four feet tall and highly muscled. Striped orange and black with extremely long canines, this creature is highly intelligent and loyal.

Spoiler

Cost: 2 AP
DC: 7 (+2 Nature Domain)

 

[booksv2]

Grat Shee, Middle of the forest.

Shaman Kesar looks out over the large padlock of animals kept for breeding and food. He was hugely proud of himself and as he looked over the spectrum of animals he was keeping he waved at the Grat who were looking over the different pens keeping them corralled and making sure they stayed calm.

Kesar Remembered when he had started months ago with some of the smaller more tame animals like rabbits and squirrels. They had been easy, keeping them in a cage and just making sure to feed them was all he had to do. Though finding the best food had been very hard in its own right, though the spores that had been given to them had dome something to help because it made a much wider spectrum of plants.

Kesar jumped into the pen with a few large racked deer and some of the none horned ones are staying, all of them having been trapped in the wild and kept here. Slowly moving towards one of the female deer and lifting one of his clawed hands he watches as they all run away from him. Shaking his head and lowering the hand he had lifted he tilts his head and squats to look under the bodys of the animals and through their legs at a much smaller deer at the back of the pen. Looking at the half dozen adult deer he slowly walked through them to the newly born deer, squatting next to it and slowly sliding his hand over its very soft fur. Gathering the power he had been given he pushes it inside the little deer, making it lose most of the wild instincts of its parents.

Standing afterwards and quickly moving through the different pens he finds the babys and either makes them lose their wild instincts or lower the amount of time they needed to give birth. By the time he got to the last of the cages holding the rabbits he was exhausted, each time he did used the power given to him it only took a little energy. But there was dozens of pens and cages to go through. Standing over the last of the cages holding quite a lot of rabbits he opens the top and reaches in to grab 3 in one hand and lift them into the air, red spots slowly spreading where his claws holds them. Waving at some of the Grat working he called out to them.

"When new born's are made pull them out and keep them in separate pens from their parents, I'm going to want to see them before they are put back."

One of the ones across the pens wave at him to show they hear him. Turning away and lifting one of the rabbits he tears its head off as he walks away, chewing on the bones and flesh as he heads towards a noisy spot in the forest. As Kesar walks towards the noise he quickly finishes off the rabbits and steps into a large wood and dirt structure with several Grat working over red hot metal and others that had started cooling. Watching them for a while he saw one of them trying to work with smaller arrow shaped pieces.

Spoiler: Actions

Establish a settlement in the plains just to the west.

Research a new technology; metal arrow heads

Research a new technology; Animal Anatomy.

 

[EmperorZuma]

PLACEHOLDER - STORY TO COME

Spoiler: Actions

1. Implement Scientific Development
2. Implement Offensive Maggot Training
3. Scout the lands to the southeast of the Golden Citadel (remaining land between the Deep Tribes and Raptor States) for later settlement.

 

[Terratina.]

Cyth'raul, Southeast Grassland Expanse - 6/10 AP

The Pactforger soon left after the grand deed was done, leaving Jugaan with three words.

"It is done."​

Cyth'raul then flew over to the South, intrigued by the spread of Aurora onto once Ajivan soil, the new nation of Mereton and the surivial of the Ray Das. There was a thought and a stroke of the chin. 'I need a foothold here.'

It was almost like the human nations had simply forgotten about the opportunity the Pactforger presented.

And so, the deity attempted to pull up the ground, sculpting it in an obelisk. The Obelisk of Accords. On it would be pictures and text displaying instructions on the simple power for worship bargain.

If it worked.

Spoiler: Action/OOC

DC: 11 - Constructing a large building by divine hand. +2 Guidance.

 

[Aaronoftheages]

Thandel the First Faithful

Thandel Continued his journey's along the river lands, seeking more folly for his Lord Themeron. Eventually after a few raider run in's he arrives at the village of Klaksworth, a typical Mereton village, he sought out the local Bruh, more so the captain, the resident villager's looked uneasy at that sight of this warrior, he could only signal a bad omen. He arrived at the Bruh, the men were suprised by this large man, only wearing a loin cloth, while covered in the sigils of themeron, white and red paint from head to toe. He Opens a bloody sack, tipping to the floor, and the heads of many raiders hit the floor.

"Decent folly but I require a better challenge." He states
"Did.. Did you kill these men?" The captain utters, Themeron Merely nods.
"Where did you fight these men!?"
"I fought them about a 2 miles along the back paths." He pointed in the general direction.
"That means they are advancing further and further down the path."
"Well it sounds like we can help each other, I require a Sacrifice for my god Themeron, tell me, where are these raiders hiding out, surely they have a base nearby." He was demanding in tone.
"About a 2 miles down the southern trail, surely you don't mean to attack them!?"
"Do I look like I jest Captain. I shall require some of your men, I'm powerful but they would prove useful in the fight."
The captain pondered, surely this opportunity may serve Useful. "Very well, warrior, I shall muster a small group of men to accompany you. They well meet you in the yard." He sat back down.
"A wise choice captain." He went outside to await for these men to join him.

Thandel Leads this small troop down the path, eventually they're suspicions proved correct, the raiders had made landfall by the bank. The large amount of Raiders caused the troopers to hide but keep watch.

"Fine, Hide, Let me lead." Thandel walked forward, only to be spotted by a small scout group, the scout raiders charged him chanted battlecry's, the first to attack was beheaded Quite spectacularly. The next meet their fates after some small sparring and a Swift bout of head stomping. The Fourth and final member had managed to stab Thandel in the arm, it was none fatal and he proceeded to crushing the raider's throat.

Thandel Yelled "You call this a Fight! I come for your leader!" He drew both axe's and charged dead into the thick of it. He cleaved and he Sliced his way through the Raiders, killing scores, the soliders soon followed in tow, Impressed by this feat of power and Prowess in battle. The solider keep the rear flank defended for him. This Raider leader, approached, he looked more decorated than the rest.

"Who do you think you are?!" He announced over the battle.

There were no more words to be said by Thandel, he Carved his way through raiders and engaged their leader, the sparred for a while, but eventually the battle reached it's conclusion, Thandel Drove his axe into the leaders abdomen, tore upwards, and watched his very organs pour out, kicking the body back as blood flew in the air, Thandel Announced.

"I claim this a sacrifice to themeron! THE AVATAR OF WAR!" The soldiers Stared in awe, this power, was it real?

At the Fortress where the war god dwelled, Themeron Smiled, First blood felt good.

Back on the mortal Plain Thandel hacked of the leaders head, and handed it to one of the soldiers.

"Give this to your Captain, And spread the word of Themeron throughout the village, he gives me this power, and prehaps someday you may bask in it." He Began to walk away, only to hear on of the soldiers yell at him.

"Warrior! The Kingdom could use a Warrior like you!" Thandel Stopped, he concidered this option, that was when Themeron Spoke to him once more.

"Yes Thandel! This is the perfect opportunity to spread! I can sense a large Mereton army venturing south, make your way to it and demonstrate your power to their commander, they will surely need it at this time."

"I will go master." Thandel began his journey, with a trail of corpse's in his wake, the war god's conquest had begun.

Spoiler: Action

Continue the spread of influance, thrandel the First Faithful is to link up with the mereton Army

 

[JoJo]

Nations

Aurora

The troops of Aurora entered the eastern peninsula of Ray-Das lands and pushed inwards, immediately running into heavy resistance. At first it seemed like a deadlock similar to that of Lot-Vos might arise but the arrival of dragon reinforcements saw the wooden fortresses collapse into orange flames as their occupants fled westwards. By nightfall, a foothold had been established by the Auroran first army as they awaited the arrival of their brethen who were being assembled as Aurora's second army. Far to the west, colonists from the Ajivha also pushed outwards and established the new settlement of Nova Ajivha, a separate duchy from the Kingdom of Ajivha.

Raptor States

With some difficulty, the Raptor States reformed it's military into regiments, and it's research into rifled barrels and small mechanical parts were both successes.

The Collective

Though they met storms on the way, the diplomats of the Collective managed to reach the shores of the Kratari in one piece. Back at home, their research into camouflaged fortifications was also a success. There were problems however assembling an Inquisition after a scandal involving two potential Inquisitors, a Yish'Tai prostitute and a melon came to light and the project had to be abandoned.

Saranda

The Driders gratefully settled in their new home of Saranda, relieved to finally have a homeland where they weren't a minority. They were careful to stockpile food however, knowing the hunger of their young come wintertime.

Mereton

The scouts of Mereton were luckier than their predecessors and returned to the Kingdom with intricate knowledge of the coastal region that lay to the east of their country. Additionally, horse collars were successfully designed by the nation's leather workers, although they would still have to be implemented to be of use.

Grat Shee

A settlement in the western plains was established, more living space for the growing Grat Shee population. Their research of the metal arrow heads and animal anatomy would protect and provide for their people, so they hoped.

Deep Tribes

The Luug's research into Scientific Development and Offensive Maggot Training were successfully implemented. Meanwhile, the scouts who travelled to the lands to the southeast of the Golden Citadel found many caves and other locations where the Deep Tribe's expansion would be able to move next.

Gods

Drya

A great sabre-toothed tiger, the likes of which had never been seen before, materialised before Drya in her forest clearing. It was loyal and would guard the grove at all times, whether she was there or not.

Lysei and Gangari

Together, the two allied gods created an admirable home for the Drider people among the southern forests, complete with a temple in the centre. This land would come to be known by it's inhabitants as Saranda.

Cyth'raul

The god's attempts to build a obelisk between Aurora, the Ray-Das and Mereton fell flat as it collapsed into molten rock, eventually solidifying as a large but otherwise unremarkable mountain.

Theremon

The god of war sent his faithful servant to meet with the Army of Mereton, a first step on what he hoped would be the path to victory.

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

The Council, Silverclaw

"You've got to hand it to Khyber..." Dehl said, reading over the letters. "The man knows how to wage war."

"And that is why we must send him to Ray-Das to help our Auroran allies. If he wants to help them then fine, he can die with them." Aerith said begrudgingly but he reared his head with an interesting thought. "We shall see the combat effectiveness of our soldiers there. The new regiments are formed, aren't they?"

"All present and accounted for." Dehl said, tossing the letters aside. Jak looked through them with growing interest. "The uniforms were easy but fitting our wings was not easy."

"I can get a working prototype and fully working models of these soon enough." Jak said, perusing through the letters. There were detailed plans and schematics for a new weapon utilizing their newest technology and bringing forth new ones as well. "Its a shame he's a general and not an inventor like Cawles..."

"Speaking of Cawles." Dehl said. "We have diplomats from the "Collective". They're quite thankful for the gift we sent them. Maybe we can use this to our advantage. I hear they have our old firearms. A business deal can change that with some extra gold to spare."

"That is true." Aerith said. "Set aside a shipment for them. Fifty Carbines should do to help them on their little crusade. We shall take a page out of Khyber's book of diplomatic gestures. They shall not only be indebted to us but they'll ask for more once they start getting in "real" trouble."

"Unless, Cawles manages to reverse-engineer them." The elderly Kraai spat out. "She is smarter than all of us combined in this room. Not only that, she has the gift of the Gods on her side. One dead God and another putting runes all over the damned place! If she sees through our intentions then she will most likely, and very carefully, sidestep and ruin this plan of yours."

"Cawles wants nothing but peace, an illusion if you ask me." Dehl interjected. "The chances of her acting against us with force has just enough traction as Qartoq coming back. And if she does act then what makes you think I would not find out about it?"

"Because you aren't defended by a God!" He spat out once more. "We have to tread lightly with her."


"Why do you think we're making damned firearms then?" Dehl quipped.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Khyber and Aerith, off the coast of Lot-Vos

Aerith gripped her sword nervously. She had never seen actual combat outside of her numerous training sessions she had received and asked for. Despite her tall height, ornate swords and white armor, her combat skills were largely unproven in the face of actual combat. Now she watched as the coast of the Ray-Das territory loomed closer and closer with columns of smoke rising along the coastline. Khyber had leaped when they were asked for assistance, leaving behind the Steward and token guards while he rallied his men ahead of the main army. His famed "Sacred Band of Kraai" were adorned in all black and armed to the teeth. These were the men that Khyber personally lead and trained ever since their conception decades ago. Of all the fighters in the Raptor States, these men were the most feared and lined up to their new troops, were now the most archaic.

The first troop ships had arrived with more on the way but Aerith had to double check the markings of the ships and the soldiers themselves. No longer were they the warriors that Aerith had grew accustomed to seeing but they were organized rank-and-file. Officers commanded and shouted orders of which the new soldiers responded with tight discipline. Even Khyber was impressed by these new soldiers but their combat skills were yet to be tested much like Aerith.

"Look at those damned clothes." One of the soldiers in Khyber's personal unit said to his other comrades. "They look like a bunch of rocks stacked up neatly!" The soldiers in Khyber's elite unit contrasted heavily with their black attire and armor with swords hanging off their belts compared to the solitary sword that the new soldiers had with leather armor along their limbs but in their arms were gleaming firearms.

"Listen up!" Khyber yelled out after he exited his cabin with numerous officers in tow. They too were adorned in the gray uniforms of the new army. "Time to exact some much needed vengeance today. I knew and I'm sure some of you also knew that this day would come. Ray-Das will fully pay for their crimes and indolence." Khyber looked to his men who shared the same sentiments as he did but then he looked to the new soldiers. "For the rest of you, now is the time to prove your worth. In the coming months we shall see if you are all truly capable as your leaders make you out to be and I will be the judge of that. Now get ready!"

As if on cue, a dragon soared over the ships with a low roar emanating from its feral mouth. Its rider was rarely visible as it reared the beast towards the shore. He banked towards the sea, waving at the Krakari before turning towards the shore.

"This is going to be interesting..." Khyber said aloud before a roar of laughter came from his troops.

Spoiler: Actions

(Major)Send Army to help Auroran Invasion
(Major)Implement Gunpowder, barrels, small mechanical parts-Pistols: bonus to Assassinations
(Minor)Deploy Sacred Band of Kraai
(Minor)Send weapons shipment to the Collective

 

[JoJo]

Emperor Maximus I and Prince Cyneheard, Palace of Nations, Isle of Xule

The next morning a message arrived that the delegation from the Kingdom of Mereton wished to officially meet the Emperor. Maximus had a heavy heart but knowing his duties must on, nevertheless gave the orders for his most pre-eminent vassals to attend and then entered the throne room, sitting upon the great carved chair in his formal red and gold robes. It was to be a decidedly more formal meeting than that with the Krakari, given that it was the first time official contact with Mereton was to occur. Naleene prowed around in the back, watching for any suspicious activity. Around him his court gathered, awaiting with curiosity the newly discovered men from the south.

After a few moments of silence the doors were opened and the Mereton delegation marched on through. Prince Cyneheard dressed in his battle mail and wearing a fine green cloak led the delegation as they continued towards the emperor. On both sides of the prince marched a HouseCarl, fully armoured and holding their distinctive two-handed axes, they eyed the crowd and surrounding area suspiciously, ever on the lookout for any would be assassin. In tow of the prince came a small crowd of Mereton lords, merchants and other officials relevant to the diplomatic mission. Coming within a short distance of the emperor and his court which surrounded him, Prince Cyneheard stopped as did the small crowd that followed him.

"Greetings your Majesty" he spoke looking the Emperor in the eye as he did so "I am Prince Cyneheard of the Kingdom of Mereton, my father sends his regards and hopes that my visit to your nation will resulted in the creation of good relations between our people,"

Maximus cracked a smile despite himself, the young Prince was a splitting image of not only himself in his youth but also his lost older brother. The dark hair, pale skin, even blue eyes were very familiar of his kin.

"Welcome, your Highness," he spread his arms in greeting, "You... it's as the explorers to Albur and Ithene said, I can see from looking at you that you are of the same blood as the Novaren people. We thought we were the last survivors of His heritage, now knowing you exist perhaps your land is the lost southern birthplace of our race."

He pointed grandiosely to himself.

"I am Maximus, Emperor of the Commonwealth of Aurora, thirty sixth in the line of Father Matthias. I'd like you to meet my three foremost vassals. This is Indraj, King of Ajivha,"

"Greetings," the olive-skinned demiurge bowed to the Mereton Prince.

"This is High Prince Hwan, Archduke and Paramount Chief of Samosa,"

"A pleasure," the wrinkled old man motioned from his chair.

"And finally, here is my own son Prince Aurelius," the seven year old smiled shyly at the onlookers, "Prince of Oileán Uisce and Duke of Verde,"

The Emperor leaned back to wait for a reply, a crowd of Auroran onlookers drew closer to study their supposed long-lost brethen.

"An honour to meet you all" Cyneheard responded nodding at each of the newly introduced lords and giving a slight smile to the shy young Aurelius who's shyness somewhat reminded him of his little brother. The prince then gave a questioning look towards Maximus and his words that the people of Aurora and the people of Mereton may share the same blood. It was interesting theory especially since the true origins of his people's ancestors were truly unknown. If it was true however, that would mean that both nations; share the same blood and would most likely result in closer ties being forged between Cyneheard's nation and the Emperor's. Aurora would be a powerful ally and the idea may be worth looking into.

"Those are interesting words that you speak your Majesty. My people do not truly know the origins of our ancestors; only that we settled in our lands many centuries ago. Your theory is interesting however and if possible our people's finest scholars could work together to see if are great nations do share the same blood,"

"Indeed," the Emperor nodded, recalling the studies Octavius had conducted a generation ago, "Our oldest stories tell of ancestors who came from other worlds in flying boats, or on the backs of flying whales some say. All that we know for certain is that seven hundred and forty years ago, a group of them escaped from slavery under a barbarous halfling named Turok and founded the nation that would become Aurora. Our race makes up less than a quarter of present population of the Commonwealth, but we are still the lifeblood of this nation. But anyhow, that will be for the scholars to debate. Onto more immediate matters,"

He cleared his throat dramatically.

"Aurora and our allies the Raptor States form together an organisation known as the Trade Federation, promoting the freedom of trade and rule of law among nations. We would like to offer free trade in certain resources that would enrich all three nations and provide a path to possible ascension to the Federation, if your Kingdom so desires in the future. What do you think?"

"These terms seem fair" Cyneheard replied, "Trade would certainly benefit my people and I see no reason to turn your offer down especially as it seems you have no ultra-motives or reason to trick us. Yes, Mereton and its people will agree to these terms, so long as it benefits us and allows our two nations to remain on good terms".

Nods and mutters of approval from the other members of the Mereton delegation responded to the prince's words.

"Excellent," the Emperor intoned, glad for some good news even in these dark hours, "Come share the feast tonight with my court, we need to discuss more about these scholars..."

.​

General Fallan, East Coast of the Ray-Das

The General's troops were weary but elated as the halflings fled or surrendered to the victorious invaders. Nevertheless, all were aware that the long campaign had only just began. General Fallan was discussing tactics with his captains when two pieces of news arrived at the same time.

Firstly, a second Auroran army had been assembled and at that moment was sailing for western stretch of Ray-Das coast. Even better, the Weaver of Lysei herself was heading there to assist their landing. Fallan hoped they would find more clues about the Queen's disappearance, the scant evidence that had been gathered from prisoners of war suggested the abductors had landed on the peninsula they now stood on but then had moved further south, probably inland. After a quick back-and-forth with the Minister of Defence Lord Omar, it'd had been decided the best tactic would be to secure the coastlines next so there would be no possibility of escape for the kidnappers. Once that had been achieved, they would strike into the heartlands and rescue the Queen before it was too late.

Secondly, their allies the Krakari had arrived in their ships and were preparing an assault with their firearms. The old General didn't exactly understand how their weapons worked, something about a magic powder that blew up when set on fire, but he was grateful for the support nonetheless. After flying over their ally's ships in greeting, the dragons had head north-west to support the other Auroran army preparing to open a second front. He still had the three battalions of sea vampires at his disposal however, and he was already planning a multi-pronged assault of the halfling's largest east coast city.

"This is how we break through," he announced to his captains, scattering a bunch of metal figures on a map with one swipe of his hand, "The vampires take out the leaders, open the gates and let the rest of us in. We secure the city before anyone realises what is happening and victory ensures with minimal bloodshed. Any questions?"

Spoiler: Actions

(Major) - Move first mobile army into south-eastern Ray-Das lands along with elite sea vampires and the support of the Raptor States army.
(Major) - Use second mobile army to invade the west coast of the Ray-Das along with elite dragon riders and the support of Katalia
(Major) - Commence trade links with the Kingdom of Mereton

 

[Drummodino]

Drya - Forest Grove, Kingdom of Mereton 10/15 AP

The river was unusually quiet on the fine summer afternoon, the warmest day of the past week. A herd of antelope had stopped by the river to drink, usually they would have avoided this area but the disappearance of the human settlement had caused much of nature to reclaim its former territory.

Near the outskirts of the herd one small deer wandered away from the rest of her kin, her thirst quenched for the time being. She was an inquisitive individual, always running off and causing her mother to fret. The nearby forest grove had piqued her curiosity and she trotted up to take a closer look.

She should have stayed with the herd. As she reached the treeline, a flash of orange and black streaked towards her, accompanied by a savage roar. The last image she saw before she died was the sight of two very long teeth lunging for her neck.

Looking up from where she was seated, Drya laughed musically and clapped as her tiger trotted into the grove's clearing, the dead antelope clutched in his jaws. Lowering the prize to the ground, the tiger nuzzled the goddess before digging into his meal.

"Well done my dear, very well done!" Drya praised, very proud of her pet. "Yes, he will make an excellent guardian," she mused, idly playing with the flowers flourishing around her. The butterflies perched on her shoulders fluttered away as she stood and gazed upon her sanctuary, the memorial stone rising proudly at its centre.

"Yes... should one disturb this place, they shall know my fury," the goddess thought, a steely look flashing across her face. It was gone the moment she gazed upon the tiger again however.

"I suppose a majestic creature such as yourself deserves a name doesn't he?" Drya spoke aloud. "Hmm... How about Nero? A strong, simple name."

The tiger paused his feeding and looked to his mistress, growling in approval.

"It is decided then. I expect great things from you Nero."

 

[booksv2]

Grat Shee, forest of teeth, Southern most village


Chief Cursa was working on skinning a large deer that had been dragged in across the village from where the squad who had been hunting dropped off a few small deer that will be their new stock animals. As he slowly and carefully skins the deer his head ticks to the side as he hears the sound of a squad making its way back from the east where they had been patrolling/hunting. Still skinning and cutting off pieces of the meat under skin and eating them as he waits for the squad making their way back to the village.

Looking up as they run through the brush a few dozen yards from where he is and the rest drop out of the trees and follow the leader as she makes her way forward and stops there watching Cursa finish the skinning. As Cursa sets aside the skin and lays the body on it, waving at the rest of the waiting squad.
"Cut it up and eat, then take the rest to the fires and get it smoked."

Cursa looked at the leader and scratched the side of his neck as he thinks.
"Your... Besru. You made squad leader two years ago and have an impressive list so far in animals and skills. You were sent to hunt in the west, since you came back and to me I'm guessing something caught your eyes."

Besru nods and steps to the side to grab a chunk of the almost stripped deer and chew on it as she answers.
"Yes, we saw something on the sides of the mountains bordering our forest."
She keeps chewing for a minute as she looks at Cursa before swallowing the rest of the meat and clicking her claws together in the Grat sign of embarrassment.
"We saw... Moving rocks on the mountain side. I know, its impossible but you have heard about Kesar and you yourself have seen the changes in our forest. All were from spirits so..."

Cursa looks at her and drops his claws from his neck.
"Interesting indeed. Fine, go back out and watch them."

Besru nods and follows her squad as they drag the skin and meet back into the village.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Kesar Squatted down next to the body that had been dragged all the way from the edge of the forest after they had stepped on the wrong vine and been killed before doing anything more than walking a hundred yards into the forest. He shakes his head and looks up at the squad had been following him before they had seen him get grabbed by a vinegrab and killed. Looking up at the squad and standing Kesar asks them.
"Ok, why did you bring him to me?"

The squad leader tosses a bag over to Kesars feet and shrugs.
"We found that just outside the vinegrab. There is something on the outside edge of it,doesn't seem like just another thresh. You said to bring anyone who looked kind of like those who came before back to you."

Kesar nods and picks up the bag to start riffling through it. Pulling out a few papers and looking them over he slowly opens the rolled up scrolls and down at the writing. Shaking his head and dropping them back into the bag he looks up.
"Was there more outside the forest? Like they looked like they are waiting for this one?"

One of the squad members in the back nod.
"Ya, there is a group out there still waiting for him. We went back to watch them for a while before coming back to you with it."

Kesar nods and waves at the body.
"Pick it up and follow me. we are going back, whatever they are using on these i don't know it so we need to ask them. Lets hope they are as reasonable as that spirit said."

Spoiler: Actions

Implement a researched technology; metal arrow heads

Implement a researched technology; Animal anatomy

Send a diplomat; Aurora

 

[JoJo]

Lord Aldren, south of Sirigarde

Lord Aldren shielded his eyes as the towering mountains of southern Sirigarde came into view, like a great wall separating the western side of the world from Aurora. He had been surprised when the Emperor had passed on a request to find a Krakari citizen supposedly being held by one of the Imperial convict farms, it wasn't the typical job the Lord Seer of Aurora was given but supposedly it was very important to their allies the Raptor States. He looked down again at the information that had been given to him:

His name was Yoren Oscen. A vague description had been given along with a sketch but it wasn't much to go on, Krakari weren't always easy for human eyes to distinguish and this one hadn't been seen for a quarter of a century. At-least the prisoner's situation was unusual, there weren't many non-humans being held at His Imperial Majesty's pleasure and so Aldren hoped that someone in authority would be able to tell him where the Krakari was, or at-least recall something about him. Prisoners could be moved all over Aurora for wherever their manual labouring skills were needed, so Yoren could feasibly be anywhere by now. Hopefully still alive at-least, preferably sane too.

The job meant Aldren had to miss the latter half of the Xule Games but he didn't mind, he'd never been one for large cities or sports so an excuse to get away from Xule was gratefully accepted. The orb had been opaque as usual but the signs seemed to indicate he'd find luck in the closest part of Aurora to the Raptor States, the country of Sirigarde, so he'd set out to there as soon as the tides would allow.

As he approached the shore he was greeted by a gaggle of fishermen. The people of Sirigarde were largely of imported extraction, mainly Novaren with the odd native from elsewhere in the Auroran Archipelago, with the exception of a few indigenous mainlanders who had already lived in the mountains when the Aurorans had first arrived twenty five years ago. The mainlanders were more similar in apperance to their Ajivhan kin further south, though of a much simpler culture, whereas the settlers were noticeably different with their white or yellow tinged skins. Aldren hailed the men in the common Auroran tongue as he approached.

"Greetings, I am the bearer of an important mission for the Emperor. Have any of you information about this bird?"

He held up the rough sketch to the fishermen and was met by blank expressions.

"This may take a while..." he thought with a sigh.

Spoiler: Notes

[li]Adjust Auroran worship to 13 for Lysei, 5 for Gangari[/li]

[li]An up-to-date map of Aurora, excluding any results of the current Ray-Das war:[/li]

Spoiler

 

[Rogue Trooper]

Princess Hild, Southern lands of Mereton, Aelf forest
On the outskirts of the Aelf forest, a column of men and several women which had been sent on the king's orders stopped and scanned the forest that lay before them. The party which was made up of scholars, soldiers and royalty was led by Osmund, a HouseCarl of note who had made a name for himself during the closing stages of the "Long War". Osmund had swollen with pride when his king had selected him for this mission and during the long journey to his destination, the HouseCarl had repeated to himself many times, the orders which the king had given to him.

Osmund knew that this mission would have been a simple one, it wasn't the most dangerous or exiting one he had been giving. But it was easy enough and it may have even resulted in Osmund being selected for the Household guard if all went well. Unfortunately with the addition of princess Hild to the party, the importance of this task had increased significantly. Fortunately however the majority of the journey had seen the party accompanying Marshal Deorwine's forces as they travelled south to combat the growing number of rebel river tribesmen. So that allowed a decent amount of ground to be travelled per day. However, if they hadn't of been traveling with the army Osmund knew that the journey would have taken longer, due to the need to better ensure the protection of the royal company.

After several minutes and seeing no visible dangers Osmund ordered the column to continue and make for the forest. Once this was done and the party had reached the entrance of the forest, Osmund gave orders for scouts to be sent out and ensure that there was no danger for the incoming scholars and their armed escorts. He then tried to ask the princess to stay until the safety of the forest could be assured but the princess was less than pleased. A short debate started which ultimately resulted in the princess coming out on top and Osmund giving in and allowing her to travel with the scholars. The Princess along with her armed retinue journeyed inward with the scholars shortly afterwards upon hearing from the scout that the way ahead was safe.

Hearing the sounds of a foreign presence traipsing through her sanctuary, Drya jumped up alert from where she'd been sitting with Nero. Quickly motioning for the tiger to hide, she leaped into the treetops and vanished from sight, listening intently as the sounds grew closer. It appeared that the group were heading directly for the clearing at the centre of the grove, where the monument stone stood.

The group continued through the forest unhindered. Life teemed all around them as the chirping of birds and rustle of animals in the undergrowth could be heard. Sound of axes could be heard ahead of the group as soldiers in front hacked at low lying branches and trees in an attempt to better present a clear path for the rest of the group. The scholars that where with the group jotted down notes and muttered amongst themselves

?This is quite the strange site? one scholar spoke ?a burnt village once stood here but now it has been replaced with nature. How did this happen??

?It is indeed a question that must be answered? another scholar replied ?especially since the ground beneth our feet shows no sign of having been burnt or damaged by fire?

?What I find most strange is that it is so full of life? added Princess Hild ?Not many forests are like this, life appears to be everywhere which is?strange even unnatural?

Eventually the group cut their way through the growth and arrived at a clearing. What appeared to be a stone monument lay in the center of the clearing, apart from this there was nothing. Princess Hild upon seeing the monument moved towards it in an attempt to see what exactly it was, her retinue followed quickly behind.

As the princess drew close to the stone a thunderous roar echoed throughout the clearing as the powerful tiger leapt out from the treeline and stalked towards her. Crouched low to the ground, his deadly canines glistened in the sunlight. One of the Housecarls grabbed the princess and pulled her back as the others gripped their weapons and prepared to attack the threatening creature.

"Hold Nero!" came a commanding voice, as in a flash of green and white Drya appeared between the tiger and the men, arm outstretched signalling restraint. Her deep green eyes flashed as she glanced across the group, before they came to a halt locked on Hild's.

"Who are you child, and why do you attack my creation? Lower those foolish tools before I really lose my temper," the goddess commanded. At her side Nero growled menacingly, crouched and ready to pounce.

?Back you river tribe whore? spat Cyneward leader of Hild?s personal HouseCarls ?Anyone who threatens a member of royalty will taste my axe!? On the old Warrior?s words the rest of the princesses? guards formed a defence line in front of Hild, weapons at the ready. ?Surrender now and you?ll be giving a??

The old warrior?s words were cut mid-sentence by Hild as she pushed her way rather forcefully through the HouseCarls line. ?Lower your weapons? she ordered as she faced the goddess directly, Cyneward tried to protest but was cut short by an angry stare from Hild. The HouseCarls then lowered their weapons and watched what was about to unfold.

?I am Princess Hild of the Kingdom of Mereton. I and my companions were sent by my father to investigate this forest, we mean you no harm and if you can answer our questions that would be helpful?.

By this point Osmund and the rest of the group had ran to the Princesses? position and upon reaching it simple watched in silence.

Drya raised an eyebrow at the HouseCarl?s rather pathetic attempt at an insult and idly contemplated feeding him to Nero, but decided against it when the young woman in their midst stepped forwards and shouted him down. Settling for twisting a vine around the man's feet, she addressed their apparent leader.

"I assume you wish to know why there is a forest where once stood a village? Well I can provide an answer to that. Raiders struck the village and slaughtered the inhabitants or so I was told. Another god killed them and burned the village to the ground in his rage. I merely restored the land to life and created this..." she said, gesturing to their surroundings, "...in their honour. It also serves as a home for Nero and myself, for the time being anyway. I'm quite pleased with it."

Hild gave a confused look at the goddess as did many other of the group ?Wait did you say you created this?? The young princess asked dumbstruck ?And what was that about another god, does that mean you are a god? I thought they were all dead?. The rest of the group muttered amongst themselves in general confusion at the turn of events

?It was nice of you though to create this? Hild spoke gesturing at her surroundings ?for the people who died I mean?

"Well of course I am a god, or rather a goddess." Drya said with a smile, stretching her hands downwards and reaching out to the aura that always followed her. Gathering her strength she stepped forward and laid her hand on Hild's forehead, a deep green glow pulsing through her. Satisfied she stepped back before the men grew too antsy.

"I have given you a blessing, when you leave this place you shall be able to quicken and enhance the growth of all plants and vegetation. Let it be known that I am Drya, Lady of the Hunt and Guardian of The Forest. This grove is my sanctuary and all of nature is under my protection."

Hild accepted the blessing and the group stayed with the goddess. The scholars asked their questions and after a period of time had passed the group left and made their way back to the Kingdom?s capital. What they had found out would surely surprise the King and all of Mereton.

Spoiler: Actions

?Colonise previously scouted territory to the east

-implement Horse collar technology

-Research deep mining techniques; improves on the open pit mining of Mereton by digging deeper into the soil in an attempt to find more ore. (Increases wealth)

Spoiler: Drya's actions

Drya - 9/15 AP

Place or remove a blessing/curse on a single mortal for the term of his/her life.

Hild can cause plant life to flourish and grow rapidly in a limited area (in a radius of approximately three metres).

Cost: 1 AP
DC: 5 (+2 Nature domain)

 

[drmigit2]

Saranda/Lysei

And so it was, that the Driders held elections. It was not clear who would come out on top, though until then, they proceeded to continue what they had previously worked on, including the further storage of food, and the implementation of their research. It was not very clear what the future of the Driders may be, but without further guidance from Lysei, they were free to make their own path. If they would chose lives of benevolence, or if they would instead desire to conquer, and subjugate was left to be seen. Drider eyes pried ever westward, to continue forming the nation of Saranda.

Spoiler: Actions

Saranda:

Implement research X2 (two majors.)
Store food

Minors:
Elect leaders

 

[EmperorZuma]

The Great Den of Minds

Keplar was intrigued by the message he received from Highcrag, orders to research a better method of developing an initial settlement beyond the borders of the Tribes. What was Budraal thinking? Was he going to order another reclamation when two nations met against our borders? With a shrug, Keplar began to write a new dispatch to his colleagues, ordering those specialized in matter of construction to look into the matter.

"What the Supreme wants, the Supreme gets."

The Golden Citadel

"It is going as you planned, Golden One." Wos knelt before the true Golden One, even if she was not actually his Chieftain. As she laid low within the Citadel, in a newly-dug tunnel that Wos himself made for her. However, even with her meager surroundings, Jugaan still possessed a powerful presence.

"Good, those mind-workers can be of good use to us, so long as we can get a hold on whatever they produce...and Budraal doesn't catch wind of our movements before we're ready." Jugaan eyed over the few documents Wos and he loyalists could procure for her. "I see the scouts did well too, good. We should consider making a base in those lands once that oaf can be convinced to settle there. However...for now...it might be best to work on some research of our own...perhaps to improve on a field that has long sense been neglected."

With that, Jugaan scribbled some things of her own on a tablet and gave them to Wos. "Find some of those runts that Budraal hasn't picked up for his Glass Shifters and have them work on these."

Wos nodded as he picked up the tablet. "It shall be done, Golden One."

Spoiler: Actions

1. Research Common Pits (Colonization bonus)
2. Research Tribeless Agents (Espionage Bonus)
3. Scout Mountains to the North