Cawles thought of what Qartoq had said but the others gorged themselves on the feast she had laid out before them. She knew that the Krakaris was infamous for their gorging but supplies were low by the time that they gathered enough courage to approach it. Cawles felt this hunger was justified compared to the other bouts of gorging that she had seen.
"Well... my people are known not only for our large pockets but also our hidden daggers. In my nation a treaty holds all the families together and in that treaty we cannot declare formal war against one another but that hasn't stopped others from waging a secret war. Families have been extinguished, siblings have killed siblings all for the sake of profit. I can see a way to incorporate you, Qartoq. Our spies are notorious and feared so perhaps an order is needed to... kill in your name." Cawles felt uncomfortable talking about such a thing but it was an idea and she always believed that ideas should be shared rather than hidden. "Temples can be built to offer our dead to you and your name will be our new death. Our new "wings above" to sweep up the souls."
"But it will be difficult to convince the families..." Cawles sighed. "We are a fickle bunch, you see. Too many grudges and too many rivalries. A definite sign is needed and when that is given to even the old crones then we will believe. It is only us now that has seen you."
Qartoq listened to the one of them who talked, while the others ate and seemed little interested in her. Although, they couldn't be scared anymore if they ate without worry for what it may be made of or checking for poisons. Not that she'd done anything with it, but it was good they'd let go off their fear.
"That sounds like a fair deal to me." Qartoq said. "As you say you're the only ones to have seen me yet, but not by my choosing, so then I could come with you back to show myself. That would.." The goddess stopped to think for a moment. The mortals were rather small and generally it took time for them to travel from one place to another. She on the other hand could be there and back again while her guests finished the meal set before them. "I will give you your sign, and when the time comes I would improve whatever order has been created to kill in my name by showing them death in a light no one else has seen before."
"If you'll excuse me." She said, then drifted through time and space to visit this race's land.
She found a valley, and what must be their capital. The old death may have been subtle and gained followers that way, but she'd already begun taking steps on a more straightforward road. Qartoq thought she may as well continue.
"Listen!" Qartoq began, where she hung above the valley and the capital. She'd taken her black wings for this one task, and they went up and down with the wind to keep her in the air. She could float without them, but as this race posessed wings it might be easier to get them to listen if she looked like them, or wings above.
"I am Qartoq, the new goddess of death now that the old one has deserted this world. I've met with the envoy sent to my manor. In fact, they are currently enjoying my hospitality. Terms of worship have been suggested, and I am here to display my powers for the non-believers among you."
She pulled the clouds together to block out the sun, turning day into night, and then attempted to unleash a storm upon the valley and the capital. If this didn't prove her powers she might want to consider a more subtle approach after all.
Qartoq then drifted through time and space, returning to the dining table where her guests were. "I hope that'll do it." She said with a sly grin. "Any more of a sign might cause more death than worship, I fear."
<spoiler=Action>Changing the weather temporarily difficulty 7, 2 AP. 10/15
+2 death. Storms can be dangerous and deadly, though she'd want to keep any deaths to a minimum even then.
Octavius was studying in his cabin as the convey returned to Pomia, the nearest port to the capital city of Nova Verde. He could barely contain his glee that the second attempt to found a colony that he'd been leading had failed so disastrously that the Emperor had no choice but to recall everyone involved. It was almost too convenient, he laughed to himself.
The prince was also in a good mood as the parchment he'd been restoring had been throwing up curiosities by the hour. It was a copy of the Book of Aurora a clerk had found last year at the bottom of a chest in the Imperial Library and quite possibly over six hundred years old, making it one of the closest references to Father Matthias' work ever found. The script was in old style and faded, but Octavius couldn't believe how much new material there was in this one book. There was one phrase he'd found which he couldn't stop reading, it was simply elegant.
"Quod quidem die aut dominus imperator aut rex non ad arcu. Omnes fratres Aurorans erit in terra libertatem!"
It was just what he'd been looking for, in one succinct phrase it placed the Father with him and against the Imperial religion. It might be enough to convince a scholar but an Emperor? He would have to move slowly and play the long game, he hoped his friends back at the court would be preparing the ground for when he landed.
Emperor Kaius III, Nova Verde, Isle of Maia
At the palace in Nova Verde, it was the week before the Founding of Aurora celebrations and yearly taxation tributes were arriving by the chestful. The majority of the population, serfs and slaves, did not contribute directly of course but their noblemen and the numerous freemen living across Aurora had deep enough pockets to easily fund the Imperial Treasury. Most taxation was paid in the form of gold and silver coins, minted especially on royal orders and the descreation of such a coins was a crime punishable by death. Others sent in great silks and furs, calved whale bones and even in one case a long horn, supposedly found on a sea creature in the far north. This wealth would go further than ever before however, as the Emperor had ordered a new inquiry into economic ideas which would be finished within the next few days. He was determined to outdo his Uncle this fiscal year and show his abolishment of Parliament was the right choice.
The Emperor had already got the news about the failure of the settlements, he had decided to hold off on expansion for the time being and instead focus on improving the nation's knowledge. As the settlers returned wearied and tired, a small group of scouts would be heading out to south of Nova Aurora to conduct further surveys and determine how to better increase prospects next time. Along with them a spy was travelling, his destination known only a few, once they reached the southern lands he would leave them and travel onwards until he reached the nation he would inform on.
-Major: Research economic ideas to boost economy
-Major: Scout out lands to the south of Aurora for settlement
-Major: Send spy to ???
Looking to the south after delivering his speech Jashiki can hear his name being said. Turning and moving through space to outside Lot-Vos he looks up at the walls, hearing Ber-Sam talk to a large crowd about who he was. Smile slightly and taking a deep breath he lets his avatar grow, from 6 feet to 10. Passing 10 to 20 feet quickly, still standing on the water he looks up at the walls still taller than him.
Standing still for a moment Jashiki lifts up the water around him, 50 feet across it starts to raise into the air. Lifting higher and higher his head tops the wall slowly, the water lifting him higher and higher. More and more of his body going over the wall as the water lifts him up, soon his whole body is visible to the crowds below the wall as well as some of the water he is standing on.
His voice now booming Jashiki looks down at the crowd below and smiles.
"My name is Jashiki. I am the god of water and I have come to bring all those who use the waters to new height's. I came to your leader to make these people great."
Looking down at everyone in the crowd Jashiki waves one of his hands over them and picks 50 random people in the crowd he places a blessing on them. Great talent in boat making and a better understanding on how they work and the actual physics behind it.
change his avatar
Difficulty: 7 Cost: 2AP +2 because giving information about something exclusively used on the water.
- Place or remove a blessing/curse on a small group of mortals (less than 50) for their entire lives.
Give 50 people a much better understanding on boat making and the physics behind why and how.
The flask formed before the man and settled gently into his hands, it was a shiny bronze flask though within the man knew it contained endless blue depths. Such an artifact was capable of much he knew, and as the man faded he felt both wonder and terror. He would need to take this to people who might know better how to deal with it, but perhaps first his crops could use some more water...
The burning orb fell into the city, and was soon pocketed by a wandering merchant who pawned it off to a ship builder who in turn sold it to an interested ship captain. Its properties were not apparent for some time, but soon the ships navigator found himself drawn to look into its depths, and began to credit it with the ships luck and speed. How it might change hands in the future was unknown to him but for now he felt comforted and guided by its presence.
The design of the ships was strange, almost alien to the Yish-Tai, but they understood how to build and how to operate these vessels. Even the long voyage around the world to the far shores of the Auroran empire or the fledgling Ray-Das nation would be possible with these vessels, they needed only to build them.
This time Cyth'raul could feel satisfied with his accomplishment, but then his failure with the Lugg had hardly upset him anyways.
The storm shrieked and howled over the heart of the Raptor States, it was all that the Krakaris feared and there would be some that were caught off guard by its sudden appearance and slain. Most though simply cowered and hid from the winds and rain and thunder, weathering the storm until it faded. Those sitting in her manor watched in awe at its power, knowing that truly they sat in the house of a god.
The blessing settled throughout the crowd, its true effect would not be immediately apparent to most but soon the new geniuses of the Ray-Das would begin to put their talent to work. His display of riding a massive wave would be spoken of for some time to come, becoming the first of what might someday be many tales of the new god of the water to be spoken in the feasts.
(Ray-Das will get an extra die on research actions regarding ship-building so long as they have their new ship building geniuses)
Earning a place among the Lugg was difficult, even having gained a place to stay and a position where she could speak Shiva could not help but feel alienated and unwelcome among the hulking earthen Lugg. She would have to try though, the Lugg could make a powerful ally, or a dangerous foe.
The rocks burned brightly and in the most intense flame seemed to melt, but Briln was unsure how to work this new metal. It defied his understanding of working bronze, new techniques would need to be invented, how he had little idea though. He had learned only how much more he didn't know from his experiments, though of course only perseverance could ever bring him all the answers he sought.
The new iron weapons quickly found their way into the hands of the Ajihvam warriors, who were proud to bear such high quality arms. These were only the start of their expanding armory though, as Grhak soon put the brilliant Ajihvam craftsmen to work crafting what he termed a ballista, a fearsome engine of war.
Driven this time by the threat of death the scouts ventured forth once more, and pushed back thoughts of homesickness in favor of those of duty. When they did return it was far more triumphantly, the land had been appraised and a site selected for settlement, with luck such plans would move ahead without error.
The settlers were far from inspired in their task, divisions political and familial kept the group bickering and their expedition soon turned to failure as a result. A few in the group contemplated and argued setting forth once more but news of the strange storm back home scared them into staying. They instead found themselves aiding in the reinforcement efforts, which proved quite successful. Land or air the south was now strengthened against either.
The new ships were eagerly and quickly produced the builders moving their schedules hastily to have them produced in time for the new feast. In other areas the scholars assigned to improve their technology in other ways found themselves distracted by the bustle of the upcoming festival and achieved little. The festival itself though was a delightful celebration, the gods were returning in new forms the people said, and this new Jas-Hiki was held to be the pinnacle of what must be a newly emerging pantheon. Some even whispered that perhaps their shifting powers would be restored and with them their former glory reclaimed.
The efforts to improve the economy bore little fruit, it was after all a complex and ever changing behemoth that few truly understood, and the emperor found himself frustrated at every turn in attempting to gain insight to its workings. There was however a ray of hope, the scouts refused to let the failure of the settlers intimidate them and pushed forward with great fervor soon clearing a place for a new settlement. The spy who went with them though reportedly disappeared in the jungle, never finding his way to the site of his mission.
Grand Ajivha: Bureau of Design and Development
Grhak Arakha, Chief of construction
After the scouts had returned home with their tidings Grhak had set out at once. Hiring a less than respectable convoy to take him north the man how stood at the peak of a cliff, looking over the vast expanse of ocean only a drop away. It was his first time seeing it, so far his only reaction had been sheer terror.
Nevertheless his mind was racing; drawings and sketches came to life around him. There rose the eastern wall, here the docks and where he stood right now; the tower. Settlers had yet to arrive, who knew if they even would, all that mattered to Grhak was the potential.
Whistling a merry tune he strolled down the hill to the future town, marking out foundations with small rocks as he went.
Grand Ajivha: Palace of the Vazin
Tamar was terrified. It wasn't the size of the hall, nor the richness of the décor, it wasn't even the armed guards staring him down. The source of Tamar's terror was the old man seating on the chair before him.
After receiving Gangari's gift Tamar had given his crops a much needed watering,once that was taken care of he was at a lose for what to do next. Sharing the gift would be impossible; he was but one man and the gift was so small, not the mention the legions of people who would be out to profit from infinite water, or the rouges who may have a more nefarious plan for in. In the end he ate the sand and visited his brother in Ajivha-Tahna, after leaving the farm at 16 Casam had become a 'scholar', if anyone could think of what to do it was him.
Two months of experiments and bureaucracy later Tamar found himself in front of the most powerful man in the country. The Vazin was holding the object in his hand, examining it from all angles. At length he spoke.
'And where did you acquire this?'
'A spi...' Tamars voice cracked 'A spirit gave it to me my lord'
'Zuci-Danava or Zuci-Gangari?'
There was no humour in the Vazins voice, a few years ago he would have scoffed the idea of gods and spirits; the message from Cyth'raul and that new god of the Ray-Das had put an end to it. He had be informed of this new cult worship a few months ago, surprised at how swiftly it had taken of. Equally surpsing was the difference in power it held village to village. Given how convicted the followers were he had suspected some kind of divine influence at work, whether or not that was true remained to be seen.
Tamar bowed apologetically.
'I am unsure. The stories say they are twins, one good one bad. Danava cursed my home several months ago I had thought him returned when he gave me this. However it is a gift, so it must be Gangari.'
The Vazin asked him to tell his story, as well as describe the old man in detail. With a nod the Vazin concluded his questioning.
'Give our friend here a piece of silver for his time. Also add him to our list of suppliers for the palace, his crops must be of fine quality now.'
His work done Tamar was escorted from the palace, the gift stayed with the Vazin. As soon as the farmer left he spoke to his guards.
'Leave me. I have much to think on'
A quick salute and they were gone, the Vazin left with a gift of the gods. A part of him resented what he was about to do, were anyone in the room he would appear mad. However now was a time of gods, and Ajivha needed to find its place with them, one way or another. Bringing the decanter to his face the Vazin spoke.
'Hear me, Zuci-Gangari, Zuci-Danava, whatever name you go by. I am Vazin Prajja Tu Andha, ruler of Ajivha-Tahna, Guardian of Her Gates. You have been travelling in my land, giving gifts and curses in equal measure. I feel it is time we spoke.'
Send settlers to the north
Begin research into crops using knowledge from the decanter (do I get a food bonus just having the decanter anyway?)
Stockpile food
Encourage worship of Gangari (see bellow for relevance)
"Hear me, Zuci-Gangari, Zuci-Danava, whatever name you go by. I am Vazin Prajja Tu Andha, ruler of Ajivha-Tahna, Guardian of Her Gates. You have been travelling in my land, giving gifts and curses in equal measure. I feel it is time we spoke."
Interesting...
Gangari appeared infront of the Vazin within moments, materializing out of the air.
He lowered his hood and spoke calmly, saying "You wished to speak with me Vazin Andha?"
The sudden appearance of him made the Vazin jump, the decanter fell ungracefully from his hands in the process. After a second he spoke.
"Fascinating."
He paused.
"Welcome to my home, I would ask you to sit but I feel our customs is unsuited for gods."
The only seat in the room was occupied the Vazin, though there were cushions on the floor.
"However custom dictates I offer you a drink and ask you for your name. I assume the ones I've been told are fictitious; you do not look a demon to me, white though you may be."
Gangari waved his hand at the air and an oak chair materialized behind him, he sat in it and spoke.
"My name is Gangari."
He paused briefly as he considered what to say next. His voice became noticeably somber.
"The division your villagers saw in me was due to me unintentionally being responsible for the crop failure months ago."
"I failed in an attempt to teach them how to farm their lands more effectively."
His voice returned to a state closer to his previous tone, but with some joy to it.
"I assume you have questions. Feel free to ask me anything.
The Vazin spoke.
"Very well, then I will be blunt. Why are you doing this? The gifts, the blessings.
One would assume as a god you desire worship yet your actions are subtle, helpful. Surely there is more in you repertoire, acts that would force my people to bow at your feet. Why help us?"
Bitterness crept into Gangari's voice.
"When my lord walked the lands, he acted in large ways, forcing men to bow to him and destroying those who didn't. Men threw their lives away in increasingly desperate attempts to please him, and he didn't even notice.
I wanted to avoid creating the same kinds of zealotry that were tearing their lands apart, so I acted with a subtle touch to events."
The bitterness left him and it returned to its previous tone.
"I helped your people because they were the first I heard toil when I re-emerged into the world. As I looked upon you cities and people afterwards, I saw something familiar, something hopeful, so I continued."
"I can manage greater feats, I just didn't want to risk I would unleash something awry on your lands and see people believe I was punishing them for somehow slighting me."
A weary smile came to the Vazin's face.
"Forgive my hubris but I believe we have much in common. If you can say anything of my people it is of their obedience; an Ajivhan will do his duty, he will do his Job. As lord of the Ajivhans I can ask anything of my subjects and it will be done, just like that."
He snapped his fingers.
"The first lesson someone with power must learn is when to use it, they must learn of their responsibility. As a god I doubt you answer to anyone; you have no subjects, you have no council. In a word you have no responsibility. You owe my people nothing and yet you help them, for that I thank you."
The Vazin leaned forward, clasping his hands together in before him.
"If there is anything a mortal can do for a god ask now, I will make it so."
"I seem to gather strength from the simple act of belief. I felt power as I began to receive offerings."
He paused
"If you let your people know that I exist, I can offer you something in the coming time. The runes on the objects I have been giving to your people draw power for the enchantment. They cannot be created effectively by those who can't draw power themselves."
He paused again
"If you give me one of your scholars to teach for the coming months, I shall assist him in the training of your finest artisans in this art."
"It will be so. However I refuse to order my people to worship you, though I feel that it something neither of of would care for. But, before our business is concluded might an old man may ask a simple favour?"
"If you truly wish to be a god of my people you must understand them. I ask that you walk the streets of my city, learn her ways. My people and Ajivha-Tahna are one, to understand them you must understand her, with any luck my people will find you of their own accord."
The Vazin rose to his feet and bowed.
"I wouldn't want them forced to."
Gangari smiled
"I shall return within two months time to teach my apprentice, choose wisely."
Gangari bowed back to the Vazin and faded from the room.
[hr]
Gangari reformed himself outside the city walls and after a moment decided that if the people were to trust him, he would need to look like them. He changed his skin colour to a tan, making it closer to the tone of the Ajivhans. He changed the colour of his hair to a dark grey with silver flecks. And then he changed the colour of his robes, turning them a forest green.
He walked through the gates after quick look over by the guards.
He spent the next few weeks wandering the city and observing the people as they lived and worked, assisting the mortals in their tasks if they approached him or looked in need of assistance as their values seemed to dictate.
At the end of his first month in the city, he decided that he would bless them as he had the villages.
He travelled from workhouse to workhouse offering glass baubles in exchange for letting him watch them work. As he watched, he would transfer some of his energy into them, to bless them with greater understanding of their crafts. When he left to go to the next he would shake their hands and let them know that his name was Gangari.
As he blessed the fourty ninth he felt tired again, so he decided to stop. He walked out of the city and to the plains, he wandered until he found himself in the field had rested in months ago. He layed down and slept.
- Maintained a Physical Form.
- Listened to a Mortal
- Moved to Grand Ajivha
- Spoke to Mortals.
- Altered Avatar
- Wandered Grand Ajivha
- Conjured seventy five stained glass spheres that slowly and randomly shift in colour.
- Placed a blessing on 49 mortals (Sammah Ajivha-Tahna craftsmen) for their entire lives.
(Should be difficulty 7, with a cost of 2 AP. His Wisdom Domain Bonus of +2 should apply to roll.)
- Moved back to the Plains of Sammah Ajivha-Tahna and rested.
After his grand display at the port of Lot-Vos Jashiki let the water go back into the ocean without causing a massive tidal wave that would sink ships and destroy ocean side estate. Shrinking himself down to his normal 6 foot tall form and letting himself disappear from everyone's view he watched the celebration from far away, feeling every time someone used his name in the city and also as it spread out across the land about the Ray-Das's new god. Standing on the water halfway between the Ray-Das and Aurora he considers, everything from the new power he can feel coursing through his body to needing a place to become where people can come to him for what they want.
Looking to the south at the Ray-Das he then looks to the north at the other nation who also uses ships and has many more islands than to the south. Narrowing his eyes and rubbing his chin he considers how hard it would be to create an island in the middle of the ocean, and how much it could affect the rest of the world if a new island appeared suddenly. Shaking his head and turning towards the mainland he calls out through the wind for a god he knew is looking for pacts.
"Cyth'raul, I need help to build a place of power for me."
"...Interesting." Was the reply, "Is it too much to ask for details? Regarding yourself? Regarding this place of power?"
Nodding and closing his eyes Jashiki unfolds his plans for the island and where he wants to raise it. "An island, between the Ray-Das and Aurora."
Cyth'raul moved over from the marshes of Rok'lo Sha to the great sea that surrounded the continent. It seemed that whoever had contacted him wanted to build another island in between a chain of islands.
"I see." Cyth'raul said with arms folded, "And what terms shall this Pact have?"
Look towards where the voice is coming from and turn towards it. "Favor for favor, unless you wish for something else."
The Pactforger sank deeply into thought for a second. Then, in an instant, the deity become animated once more and reached into the ocean, cupping some sea water and afterwards letting it go.
"This is your domain, correct?" Cyth'raul began, "If I give you your proposed home, would you care to stay in it?"
Looking down at the water for a second Jashiki shakes his head. "I will not stay there always, but it would be a place where those looking for my physical presence can come and look for me. I am wishing for someplace for those who wish to follow me to come and stay."
Cyth'raul smirked. What was with it with these other gods and their insistance on having little places for themselves? As a god who understood the power of whispers, the Pactforger couldn't understand it. But nevertheless, Cyth'raul saw no harm in helping another god.
"A favour for a favour then. I might want a place to call my own, myself..." Was the reply.
Nodding and smiling slowly Jashiki lightly slaps his hands together. "It is always best to give the mortals someplace where they know they cay find you, one or many."
Opening his hands slowly Jashiki pulls on the power deep within himself and using the picture in his mind he starts drawling things from the bottom of the ocean as well as from riversides all over the world. Feeling Cyth'raul join in and start trying to form the island that had been envisioned in his mind.
-Introduce a major change to the world's structure or its atmosphere without thought of the consequences (eg adding a new island or lowering sea levels, etc.)Difficulty: 9 Cost: 3AP
The huntress was nearly taken aback by the impressive yet terrifying stature of the Luug. Mustering her will to present a powerful image, she heaped several decorated pelts of varying size and colour over her shoulder, before addressing the two guards.
"I seek to pay homage to your nations prowess, and form a pact between warriors. Will you let me pass?"
Her voice was loud and unbroken, and she stood at the forefront of her two escorts, seemingly unafraid and valiant. Yet within her was the silent fear of rejection; both for her own physical safety, and the safety of her nation.
Briln had been yelling commands at the two hired muscle for some time now. Over and over they would throw the strange rocks into a large fire-pit, producing failure after failure. Having accepted his previous failure, Briln quickly upped the ante, nearly doubling both the amount of ore and the heat of the fire, hoping in vain for a solution. His dreams had been pervaded by visions of a future made possible by the technology this could yield. If only he could realize it.
"Just a few more! Then we just have to leave it."
If it didn't work this time, Briln would have to discuss his back-up plan to one of the other members. He wasn't about to give up on the dream just yet.
Having established a permanent home in New Tarmenos, Alcrik had filled the last few days with basic administrative duties, coupled with the odd dip in the sea now and then. The salt-water was strange to the Yish'Tai, some finding it intrinsically curious, others revolted at the strange push and pull they felt as they entered deeper water.
The knowledge of the ships had flourished strongly amongst the settlers of New Tarmenos; being close to the sea turned the knowledge from strange, seemingly-genius theory to a practical and appreciated technology. Already, they were putting the finishing touches on the long, slender ships that they carved from the marsh-trees. Now all they needed was a destination.
Kneeling in front of his small, personal shrine to Cyth'Raul, he cleared his mind and counted his breaths. As his train of thought subsided, he spoke once more to the deity, maintaining a firm but friendly relationship.
"I thank you, Cyth'Raul. Your worship will continue to grow as your boons become evident. If you know of any other people that seek trade, I would very much appreciate to learn of them."
Research New Technology; Metal Working (again)
Not sure if building the ships counts as implementing technology, but if it does, that is my second action.
Third action undecided.
The Krakaris talked over each other concerning the raging storm that had descended upon them and the God that was responsible for it. It drove the majority of them to fear but unlike them, Aerya saw something else. They all the saw the new visage of their "new death" as it called out to them and unleashed a frightful storm. The storm was so fierce and sudden that she was sure some of the unsuspecting Krakaris might have perished from it but it was all the same. The god had delivered her message and now they would.
"Silence!" Aerya called out. After a few moments, she began. "Bickering will not make this new god disappear and for what it is worth, this new one give us more promise than the Gods of old." Aerya said defiantly.
"It is long known that the Gods have lost their power but this new one displays more power than thought imaginable." Jaherys mentioned.
"And I have heard of other new Gods appearing before the other nations. All differ but all offer one thing: power." Gora spoke out, agreeing with Aerya. The stout Krakar sounded solemn for once and not sarcastic.
"The storm wasn't an act of vengeance." Farko spat. "It was an act of power, to assert itself and prove to us its power. We must use it to prosper and deliver death to our enemies."
The room's atmosphere slowly changed from fear to understanding as the primary families agreed on such a matter. This made the other elders see as well. Their world was truly changing more than ever and it was better to ride the wind than against it.
"From now on we shall remember this day that the new Death has showed us her power." Aerya said although by now she knew that whoever could write has already written about the Goddess talking to them all and casting a terrible storm upon them.
"Be that as it may, our settler were not able to settle south because of the storm." Jaherys mentioned although Aerya was quite aware of it. Words travel fast but words travelling by wings travel faster around Silver Claw.
"It was Qartoq testing our will. We must go forth once again but this time we will ask for her guidance instead." Aerya put forth.
"Qartoq is the new death! I imagine she doesn't dally on those sorts of acts. When we pray to her it must be for death." Gora said, his sardonic nature coming back into place.
"Then she will not bother us again when we go forth." Aerya said, holding her ground on the notion of settling south. "My people will go anyway, not yours. And you will profit from them as always."
"As it has been, and as so it will be." Replied Gora. "How goes your diplomat in Aurora anyway? Has he delivered the proposal yet?"
"He should have arrived by now and I know that he will what he is asked." Aerya mentioned. The diplomat was her own nephew and was her first choice to send to Aurora. Hopefully his friendly nature will help seal the deal with Aurora or at least open new possibilities with the two nations.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cawles Strix, Manor of the Dead
The others had retreated back to their camp after Qartoq's display of force to write letters and reports of their "new death" but Cawles had stayed. The fact that she was even their intoxicated her with wonder and also with curiosity. She even had begun writing and recording whenever she could. Sketches of the mansion and Qartoq also filled her journal. Cawles excused herself multiple times in order to fill out an extra detail or to record a new observation. The manor itself was another wonder to behold. It looked large on the outside but from the outside the feeling of linearity existed. From within, the mansion seemed endless but she dare not venture past the dining hall else she might get lost. Despite it all, Cawles felt like she's only touched the surface of it all and she had know more.
"Qartoq," Cawles prayed. It was odd to her first as she never quite prayed in her life but now there was proof and now she had a divine figure to talk to. "I wish to know what you know... about death. I pray to you to enlighten me. For a new order to be made, you knowledge has to be given to us mortals so that we may spread it and so that others might fear it."
(Minor)Record when Qartoq first came in contact with them
(Minor)Encourage worship of Qartoq
(Major)Attempt to settle South again
"Indeed." Qartoq appeared, and placed herself behind Cawles. The other ones of this race had gone outside after her display of power, perhaps out of fear again. One was all she'd need after that though. "I know much about death, but without more worshippers I fear there's a limit to what I can teach you now."
She put one of her hands on Cawles shoulder. "Perhaps there's a limit to what you'd actually want to know too so early." She laughed coldly, then removed the hand again, and walked around the room in thought.
Qartoq pondered what knowledge to grant them. That it would be the first, made it almost certain that it would develop them along a certain line. "However, I know of something that'd be useful, subtle and a good area to start my teaching."
She got rid off everything on the dining hall table, only to summon an amount of different ingredients that weren't difficult to get a hold of normally. "You must have weapons, but of course these can fail you or prove inefficient at times. I'll teach you a lethal, and tasteless poison. A simple alchemy potion. However, simply wounding the enemy would prove deadly. Since it's tasteless and takes a while to take effect, it'd work when poisoning food."
Qartoq summoned her power to teach the Krakaris in the valley how to do it themselves. She hoped they'd prove quick to learn. "If this order were to spread the worship of me, as well as fear, then I'd be able to focus my powers for the benefit of the Krakaris while growing stronger." She stated, just a simple suggestion.
-Teach a technology or system of thought to mortals that will offer minor benefits Difficulty: 7, 2AP
8/15AP, +2 Death.
Teach the krakaris simply alchemy, and only how to make one potion.
"I seek to pay homage to your nations prowess, and form a pact between warriors. Will you let me pass?"
The two guard looked at one another and began to speak in their vernacular, shaking the ground around them as they spoke. Finally, they uttered something akin to a guttural laugh before speaking to the envoy again. "Stay. We bring you the little one." The guards then retreated back into the tunnel, leaving the diplomat and her escorts outside.
Eventually, Lew'pan arrived, swinging over his knuckled to quicken his pace. "Mighty huntress, hello!" The stunted Luug emerged from the tunnel and bowed to the envoy in respect. "I am Lew'pan, speaker for the Deep Tribes to those not of our mountains. The guards have told me you wish to form a pact...please, follow me...." Lew'pan beckoned for Shiva and her entourage to follow him, eventually, after taking a route that showed little of the Luug's capital, they all reached the Glittering Hall.
"Now, let us discuss the 'pact' you offer. Does this have terms? Or is this more of a agreement of friendship?"
Golden Settlement
Jugaan had felt mocked in her discussion with the Pactforger, the 'god' brushing off its failure while attempting to goad Jugaan into furthering their relationship. However, there was no point in arguing with a supposed deity, so Jugaan decided to simply see for herself how her expedition had faired. She hoped that in her investigation she would find that Cyth'raul had not truly guided the Tribe, so she would not have to hold up her end of the agreement.
By the time she arrived, Jugaan found that the settlement had started to come together. The rough structure of the core chambers were being more clearly defined, and several Luug had been sacrificed to create a new spawning pool. "Chieftain!" Jugaan's inspection was interrupted by the leader of the expedition, a stout Luug by the name of Wos, who carried an iron spear emblazoned with traces of gold from Jugaan's own mines as a symbol of his authority. When he appeared before Jugaan, he gently placed it on the ground before her. "Golden One, I hope this place is to your liking."
Jugaan nodded with a hint of grace. "It is, I'm surprised you've done so well, with the stories I've heard in Highcrag."
Wos slowly nodded as he got back up from his subordinate kneel. "We were faced with difficulties, this much is true. However, I did not wish to bring the same shame upon you, as the Iron Tribe had to Os'lan. Especially when we were chosen for this task." Wos gestured to the mark on his shoulder, which appeared to have faded to the point where it could barely be seen. "However, the blessing that was promised turned to more of a curse. When we broke the seals that the Iron Tribe had erected, the cave maggots swarmed us. As I watched good comrades die, I listened for the guiding words to would give us triumph...but I heard only...noise. Like a quake with no purpose or reason, we all felt it, but no one could understand what it meant. Chaos followed, and we were only able to stem the tide when my spear was able to strike into the heart of the mass and take down the queen."
"A lucky strike then, hmmm?" Jugaan rubbed some loose dust from her chin, but blinked in surprise when Wos shook his head.
"Not at all. I've fought maggot incursions when we have deepened the mines several times before, Golden One, I know how the mass moves depending on the distance to the queen. Once she was dead, the rest scattered, for the most part. However, while we were making room, were did find something interesting. If you would..." Wos beckoned for Jugaan to follow as he cautiously picked up his iron spear.
Soon, Wos led Jugaan to a large pit, separated from the rest of the settlement. In the pit, there was a mass of writhing maggots, all of them looking like they were freshly hatched. "There was a fresh clutch the queen laid before we killed her. Usually, they die without a queen to care for them, but we discovered something when a pack of rations fell into the clutch...watch." Wos pulled a tuft of moss and smeared it against the edge of the pit. Almost immediately, a group of maggots covered the moss-covered rocks, swiftly devouring it and the ground underneath. "If properly trained, these thing could cut through rock faster than our claws, not to mention their secretions made more more...sturdy caves."
"Indeed, this is quite the find." Jugaan closed her eyes and let a smile show for a quick moment before looking back t Wos. "You may explore this to your fullest extent." With that, Jugaan left, planning to contact friendly Cheiftains in an attempt to procure maggot queens to try and domesticate.
Bronzed Settlement
Meanwhile, they Stone Tribe, in agreement with the Bronze Tribe, set up improving the outpost the tribe had set up beyond the mountains. In exploring, the Stone Tribe discovered new ways to support structures not carved out of the walls of caves, with nature being the buttress. In practice, the Stone Tribe hoped they could employ these techniques in the open world and in large cave chambers, allowing settlements to be more fortified against collapse.
Highcrag
At the same time, the Moss Tribe worked to replace the old crop of foodstuffs that were now obsolete. With the room now being spent on the more efficient crop, the old crops would be stored away in the holds of the capital.
1. Research Technology: Cave Maggot Domestication (Bonus to settling actions)
2. Research Technology: Improved Construction Techniques (Bonus to settling actions)
3. Stockpile Food
Jashiki's display was one of marvel, and as the god gave a sight to enjoy celebration erupted. Sloops were dragged from the docks to engage in races, as cogs began ship duels and arenas and at the end of the day, the plans and beginnings of the brand new ship were brought out. Though only a frame of wood at the moment, the ship enticed many of the more mechanically minded and enchanted the new shipwrights.
Upon cleaning up after the great celebrations, the work began again. With the new plans instilled into Ber-Sam, and the shipwrights of the gods working faster than any Ray-Das had ever seen, ships were produced. The researchers began working on brand new ships to help siege cities and land troops. Prehaps some kind of shielded boat just for landing troops to storm the city.
The other research was pooled into research into better mining techniques and ways to bring more of the metal out of the ground. The Ray-Das were still working hard to drag out metal for the mines, but the lack of any sort of carrying or rolling device was tiring the workers faster than anything else. A solution will soon be found.
- Research (A siege ship/landing ship)
- Research (Improved Mining/Minecarts)
- Research (Improved Mining/Minecarts OR Improved Lumber Mills if Mining is done)
Grand Ajivha: The Artisan Ward
Indraj-Alika, Apprentice Smith
There was a rhythm to the smithy one only had to listen. The clang on hammer against steel, the scrape of tools forming it, the satisfying sigh as it was cooled. The rhythm was what Indraj lived for, something so perfect he would happily spend his days fetching water for his master and keeping the furnaces hot. The pay was meagre, the work hard, but it was worth it for the rhythm.
It was the end of the day, his master had left for the local spirit-house to drink away the days profit, leaving Indraj alone to clean up the shop. After dealing with the store front he wandered into the workshop; his master had an order to finish for the next day so the room was a mess, shards of metal and failed swords dotted around causing numerous tripping hazards. In the corner stood the fifty blades, as requested by the Palace for delivery in the morning.
'My boy! This order will put us up there' his master had said, breath reeking of spirits 'Just think, swords for the Vazin himself, oh the honour'
Indraj very much doubted the Vazin would be wielding the weapons, from the looks of it they were just side-arms for a few guards if their spears broke. Nevertheless his master was going on about the order as if it were a gift from the gods themselves. Personally Indraj didn't see what all the fuss was about, the steel was poor and the design lacking, his master was nothing special. The only reason this shop was in such a high profile district was thanks to a generous inheritance. Still, Indraj was thankful to his master. The man gave him a place to sleep and enough money so he could go and see his friends. It was a dull life but at least he had purpose, and Ari.
Ari was his blade, the one he actually forged himself. On average his master would finish a sword in a week or two, maybe a month if he was putting in the effort, no way near the amount one should spend on a blade. Ari was different, Indraj had been working on her for the past year, scrutinising every feature. She had been forged and reforged so many times there was little semblance of her original form, yet she was still Ari. A few months ago he was happy with the blade and had moved on to decoration; almost every coin he earned when to Ari from the stones on her hilt to the binding of her sheath. And she was almost finished.
Taking the beloved sword in his hand Indraj set to work.
"What are you doing?" Maximus asked his brother, who was sitting cross-legged in the middle of the palace gardens in his finest ceremonial robes. Around the Emperor and his sibling a group of robed elderly men were standing in a circle, singing hymns and chants in old Auroran, occasionally throwing handfuls of blossom into the breeze.
"We've been so unlucky lately, the priests say there are most likely malevolent spirits hanging around, feeding off negative thoughts," Kaius shrugged, "They're asking the Father drive away all demons and bless us with fortune. Might as well give it a go, it does feel the dice of fate have been loaded against us these last few months." He gave a furtive glance around, as if some higher power could be listening at that very moment.
-Major: Research economic ideas to boost economy
-Major: Research better navigation
-Major: Send spy to unspecified nation (will PM IFS if successful)
The nights grew longer and the days shorter, it began to snow where it could and even where it couldn't the weather grew harsher and travel became difficult. Winter, the harsher of the seasons, was now upon the world. There was still good news though, throughout the lands nations counted their wealth and rejoiced at the prosperity the last season had brought them.
(It is now winter, military actions are now more difficult and seasonal wealth income occurs)
Gangari's blessing settled comfortably into the minds of those he touched, growing subtly but quickly over the next few nights. The change was astonishing, the craftsmen found their skills rapidly improving and their ingenuity alongside them, those few who had heard the rumors of the white demon felt fear and awe, knowing it must have been his blessing that so empowered them, but the others simply credited fortune's favor. Whatever they considered responsible their works were soon in great demand, and a few might even find themselves employed by scholars at the palace aiding in the creation of new works to better the nation.
(Sammah now gets a bonus to researching things involving things produced by solitary craftsmen)
The island rose fast out of the ocean, molten earth pulled from below and quickly sculpted by his and Cyth'Raul's hand into the shape he desired. Too quickly perhaps, the island itself was formed almost to his vision but the waves the sudden upheaval produced moved too quickly for him to halt them. The waves struck powerfully along coasts the world over, causing a great loss of life and property in any settled lands they touched. The god's action had proved one of creation and destruction both, and his island soon became a place men wished to avoid, few finding themselves able to reach it, as if they were being guided away.
(nations with coastal territory lose 1 population and 1 wealth as a result of the destruction caused by the tsunami, I will add the island to the map later (though don't expect it to be as large as it was in Booksv2's picture))
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Qartoq
A cold understanding of the poison crept into Cawles mind, some effort on their part would need to be expended to ensure a useful quantity of it existed to aid them, but the knowledge of how to create it was rooted in Cawles mind, and more than knowledge of its power. Here was a thing that could slay a king, and none would be the wiser. Further proof of the goddess's power had not been required, but this was more than that, proof that the goddess held power and subtlety, a dangerous combination.
The firey demon that had plagued the nobles seemed to have vanished, though no one knew if he had gone into hiding or followed in the footsteps of the old gods. His weaver and orb at least remained, and the weaver continued his mission of burning vengeance regardless of if the god himself still lived.
The settlers were now prepared and determined, fear of the consequences of failure emboldened them and the reports of the scouts guided them. The new settlement grew quickly this time and while many considered it an affront to the glory of Grand Ajivha they couldn't deny the benefits of this new settlement and trade quickly grew.
Meanwhile back in the heart of the country greater changes were occurring, the worship of a god was a strange thing to the people of Sammah Ajivha Tahna, but they could not deny the existence or benevolence of this Zuci-Gangari, and small shrines began to appear throughout the nation, a few growing into larger temples often serving as marketplaces as well.
Deeper still in the capitol itself scholars were presented with a device of great wonder, and endless supply of water was an immense boon in the desert, and their excitement quickly led to the design of a new irrigation system for the fields surrounding the city. It would still need to be built but there was little doubt it would be a wonderful boon to their fields. Even so the onset of winter brought for other concerns for food, and a small stockpile was created to help ensure the nations continued prosperity.
The new ships were fast and good for long voyages, with these sailing around the world to the nations on the far side was no longer an immense challenge. Though many were destroyed alongside the simple settlements of the Yish'tai enough endured the waves and were built afterwards that they formed a respectable fleet of trade vessels.
Briln once more found himself confounded by the metal, perhaps the rocks he was using simply lacked a sufficient quantity of it for his works, or perhaps he was simply unlucky. Regardless he had only met with more failure, accentuated by the horrible tragedies to the west, news of the great waves did little to aid his concentration.
The settlers left once more for the south, and this time the winds were in their favor. The new settlement grew quickly and soon proved profitable, some even heralded the new goddess Qartoq as responsible for its success, her worship having rapidly spread through the nation following the divine storm. Some groups took to her following more fanatically than others, even decreeing the sketches and records of the first meeting with the goddess as holy texts, others still pushed for the lands surrounding the manor of the goddess to be settled and made a holy land for the Krakaris.
The maggots proved as untrainable as they were voracious, and many of them escaped their confinement only increasing the difficulties of those attempting to tame them. If such a thing was possible it would take more effort and likely more frustration to find the key to controlling the writhing beasts. Fortunately the bronze and stone tribes made successes enough to offset such a disappointment, as they quickly developed and demonstrated skillful techniques for constructing buildings that would stand free of cave walls. It would be costly to ensure the techniques could be employed by future settlers, but well worth it.
The fearsome waves turned any attention from the development of new ships, too many of the old had to be salvaged and rebuilt not to mention the many that had to be buried and the homes that needed to be built anew. The tragedy was such that even the news of the newly developed carts did little to raise spirits. Many began to wonder if their new god had betrayed them, after all was he not the master of the waves?
Perhaps the 'dice of fate' were swayed by the chanting, for inspiration soon struck. New tax laws and the like were written up, though it would require some expenditure to ensure they were implemented properly there was little doubt that they would benefit the nation's economy, something that was greatly desired in the wake of the horrible tragedy of the waves. Yet even the waves seemed to bring new ideas, new techniques for navigating the wide ocean were also written up, though they too would need to be implemented before benefit could be seen from them.
Light was cast upon the downtrodden, a bonfire had been erected for the Birth of Father Matthaius. A great wooden sculpture had been made of the first Emperor of these lands and was just now being burned into their memories once again. It was a moment of solace for the slaves of Mistress Nelind, commander of a thousand slaves as she would often boast. It was common for her to light up the spirits of her slaves with such a spectacle, she could never make it to court, as she was far too busy managing the affairs of her seafood enterprise, but it would be improper for her to simply let the day pass.
"Madam," her butler began, "I am happy to report all festivities are going well." Nelind chuckled a bit and replied in a cavalier manner "Marvelous! It's always good to see the boys and gals with their heads held up high. Tell me, how has the Mobius Transport Company responded to our offer?" The butler looked saddened at that question and responded with a hint of anger. "Mobius refuses to deal with us. According to them, and pardon me for repeating it, our company is an abomination and is unreliable?due to you." Nelind burst out with laughter at hearing what the Mobius company thought of her, almost spilling her drink. "Ah, how inconvenient. Start attempting to find another company then, perhaps we will simply need to prop up and annex a smaller one?" Nelind's eyes got fiery as she cursed out "I will see them lose everything for their insolence."
After sitting in silence for a while, Nelind took another sip of her drink and asked "Has the heretic been dealt with? I can't have him ruining our celebration, and think of what might happen if he were to get out! Please tell me he has been restrained at the least."
"But of course, my liege."
The heretic they spoke of, was a slave that ran by the name of Vallous. His gifted name was Elismire, but he had abandoned his Mistress' gift for a name he claimed to have been given by a god. This god, was one of flames he claimed, with a grand vision that would rock the nation to its very core. Or so he claimed, anyway. Currently, he was preoccupied with the chains he had been locked in with. His Mistress would not tolerate such heresy in her borders. Imagine, if the Emperor were to come and hear of such tragic ideas. It would be simply abhorrent. At least, that was what she claimed. Vallous, however, was not as distant from the situation.
In fact, Vallous was working on a way out, for almost like magic, his chains had disappeared. In his possession, were keys to his cell and a means to escape. Lysei was not yet ready to abandon his prophet to the outside world, and would keep a spare eye open on him. Emperor Kaius would have to eventually stand in for him, but not yet.
---------
Come the next morning, Mistress Nelind was met with her butler sporting a ghastly look, refusing to meet eyes with her. He spoke plainly and without grace. "Elismire has left the compound. I don't know how. The guards all claim to have been given orders to stand at the same spot at one particular time, but I had never issued such a command, and not a soul I spoke to had either. It's devilry my lady. This Vallous has to be a sorcerer of some kind, or-"
Nelind slapped her butler with an unfounded brutality, sending him to the floor and yelled to every last person in the compound. "Get to work! Stop slacking! I will not allow this operation to fail, get to work!" Vallous was beyond her reach at this point, and drawing a scene around his disappearance would only spark problems for her. She would take this failing out upon the slaves, and simply report Vallous as executed.
Ber-Sam stood tall on the ships that sailed out from the Ray-Das lands. After the display and ensuring waves, Ber-Sam had acted fast, demanding that all fighters board the main fleet moared in the sea, leaving the shipwrights behind to salvage the wrecked and ruined. She began a speech about how this was Jas-Hiki's test, and they were going to show him just how tough the Ray-Das are! The ship's bells rung out as they sailed towards the land of the bird people, squads of soldiers drilling below decks or taking shots at targets above. They sailed for a military action that would hopefully revive the shocked spirit of her people and finally get some blood spilt.
As they landed on the coast, the soldiers rushed out to secure the land as many others landed, whilst others scouted ahead in animal form. A few remained behind on ships, mainly sailors, to ensure that as soon as the Ray-Das returned with their loot they could be out and back home.
Ber-Sam nodded to the Captain of the mercenaries she had brought with her. Two companies, marching past. They were human, but good fighters. The Ray-Das had used them before in many a raid, to distract and hold key points whilst the Ray-Das broke the walls of a city. After everyone was assembled, they began the fast march towards the land of the bird people, ready to raid and loot.
-------------------
Back home, miners began dragging out massive loads of materials with the new minecarts, easing pressure on the miners who had to do it by hand before. They hoped that soon, more wealth would rush forth from the mines with the new loads of materials. Perhaps, now they had such easy access to large amounts of resources, they could turn from weapons and begin reinforcing key points of their cities with the metals and rocks.
- Major - Recruit Mercenaries (2 Companies -2 Wealth)
- Major - Raid the Raptor States (Should be 4 dice, I think? 1+Merc+Base Bonus?)
- Major - Implement Technology (Minecarts -1 Wealth, I think?)
It was the first time she was home in many days and even then, she didn't allow herself a second to waste. With the new knowledge that Qartoq gave her, she began working on the poisons herself. She converted her spacious room into a sort of Alchemy room and brought ingredients from wherever she could find them. Cawles worked on creating the recipe over and over again until she could make one with her eyes closed. The knowledge excited her but also quieted her. The knowledge was dangerous as it was subtle, just as the Krakaris were famed to be. Deep in her mind, Cawles felt like Qartoq was meant for the Krakaris as the Goddess matched everything that the Krakaris held dear. She knew of others that expressed the same interest but as soon as she thought of that, there was a commotion at the gates.
The guards held them off but they clamored for her. She could hear the Krakaris call out for her name as she was the one that bestowed knowledge to her. She was the one that the Goddess spoke to and favored. Even for that Cawles owed the Goddess and now the Krakaris wanted her. Cawles went to her balcony and even in the snowfall, she saw them. Cawles heard the words "Prophet" among the chatter. The number of people were large and with her parents and elders away she had to attend to them.
"Guards, let them in." Cawles shakily spoke out. She knew had to lead one day and be the matriarch of the family but this was nearly overwhelming. The Krakaris filed into the spacious yard in front of her. They stepped around her family's fanciful statues and gardens but as the numbers grew, the Krakaris took to standing on the walls and statues to look at their prophet. Even when they were getting settled, all eyes were on her.
"It is true. I have spoke to our new death.... our new wings above and she has granted me knowledge but she asks one thing for all of you." Cawles shouted. "She demands prayer and worship. For those who are dead and dying, all she requires is a token, an offering of wealth."
"But why? Why has only now did she reveal herself?" One Krakaris spoke out among the crowd. The others nodded and looked at her with questioning looks. Cawles was a bit taken back but she had to relent.
"As is death, Qartoq is mysterious but you all have seen her power and what she is capable of. She offers us powers beyond our understanding but like with our own families, such things are not given for free. But is bread free? Is clothing free? To Qartoq, everything has a price and in exchange of our own monetary wealth she shall give us knowledge which is more powerful than simple gold." The Krakaris nodded and took in Cawles' words as if it were Qartoq speaking herself. She could feel some semblance of power run through her. These Krakaris would listen to her in the same way they would listen to an elder and it felt good. But in the crowd she saw the colors of a distinctive family. The red of the Oscens shone through even with the steady snowfall. She wondered what they wanted but she pushed that thought aside as she continued.
"From this day onward, we must organize ourselves into an order and dedicate ourselves to Qartoq for she has the power to give us knowledge! So my fellow Krakaris, I say to you to pray for Qartoq for she is ours and we are hers. We are the feathers on her wings as she flies. We are the claws in her talons as she swipes. We are her eyes as she hunts. For she is ours and we are hers that we may fly into a new age with the knowledge she gives us. Any price we must pay for this Goddess. For she is ours!" Cawles yelled and the crowd responded, "We are hers!"
After her speech, she noticed some of the Krakaris writing down what she had said. She felt tired after it all but incredibly satisfied. The crowd dispersed except for the Oscens who went to her door. The guards let them in but several others followed the Oscens who seemed like members of the crowd she had earlier. When she finally got close she recognized the face of Yoren and his cousin Dehl.
"Pleasure it is to have you." Cawles said with her voice slightly drained from her speech. She bowed to them and the two of them bowed right back to her.
"No, the pleasure was all ours." Dehl said with a hint of flirtation which Cawles respectfully ignored.
"A good speech." Yoren concisely said.
"Might I ask why you are here?" Cawles finally said after a moment of awkward silence.
"I was wondering when you'd ask." Dehl mentioned. "I believe you know of our beloved Gora. Even though he is old and cranky we still obey him for he is the one of the reasons that our family is so... "
"Lucky to be where we are." Yoren shot Dehl a look before he continued. "But he wasn't the sole reason why our family has become so successful as you may well know." Yoren motioned to the Krakaris behind him. They looked so unassuming at first to Cawles until it struck her.
"No worries, Cawles." Dehl said. "They will disappear as soon as our little meeting is complete and it was they that wanted to see you."
"It is true." One of them spoke out but she wasn't sure who. They all seemed so alike and it was hard to tell them apart now that she was looking at them. Their feathers were a dull brown and their stature was poor. "We heard you spoke to our new wings above. A Goddess of Death has much knowledge to give. Even for us tradesmen, we do not know everything there is." They took a knee in front of her as the Oscens stepped aside. "It would be an honor if you give us what she taught you. In exchange we will be part of your new order. We will be Qartoq's wings, your eyes and your talons."
Cawles looked to each one but they all seemed like they were talking but without definite source of who exactly was doing the talking. They all seemed to be talking at once but she considered the offer before responding.
"I will teach you what I can." Cawles finally said but then she looked to the Oscens. "Then are you here to join as well?"
"Do we look like followers to you?" Yoren asked. "These are our tradesmen and even if they are yours, they are blood-bound to serve us but now they serve you in a way. Here is our deal, little one. We give you tradesmen to your order and you teach them what Qartoq teaches you. They are part of your order, Qartoq and yourself get your prayers. If we don't need them at the moment then you can turn their skills to whoever you want but they are still ours."
"Our Gora proposed this idea after he heard what happened in the manor. It is a good deal and it took quite a bit to convince our Yoren over here." Dehl motioned to his cousin who in turn scowled at him.
"I hope you know that we take betrayal in our family very seriously." Yoren said to Cawles as he looked back to her. "Breaking deals is also incredibly heinous in our family as well."
"I do hope you understand." Dehl said.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hall of Raptors
Word of the success of the settlement drew relived sighs and comforted feelings. Soon the new settlement would bring much needed food and wealth to their people but there were other matters to be discussed in the Hall. The spread of Qartoq has resulted in a religious fervor unlike anything they haven't seen before. The Krakaris were clamoring to worship this new Goddess of Death. They relented so the elders decided to construct a shrine for the new death. It was a modest one befitting the bringer of death and the Krakaris seek prayer often.
"It seems your granddaughter is drawing quite a bit of attention." Gora said to Jaherys. Ever since her granddaughter Cawles had returned from her trip to Qartoq's mansion, the Krakaris looked to her to find out what the Goddess had said since it was her that the Goddess only shared knowledge with.
"She brings the word of Qartoq. I'm sure the masses would be clamoring at your door if she had spoke to you." Jaherys responded back. "She brings much pride to our family. Soon people will seek knowledge that we will so gladly give out."
"Knowledge won't buy you a house, I can tell you that much." Gora responded before he finally let Aerya talk.
"Anyway, with the new winter upon us we must be ever vigilant. We must make sure our soldiers are ever keen and ready to deploy at a moment's notice. Farko, your household guard contains the most experience of warriors. They would be better suited to their own, elite unit would they not?"
"Aye, I agree with you. Forming a unit will allow us to use them more independently than most soldiers and they would strike fear in the hearts of our enemies. Once I'm done trained them, Qartoq will pride them in their dealings with death. The Sacred Band of Kraai will be their name and death will follow." Farko said with excitement. He loved combat much more than the normal Krakaris and even past his prime, he considers the thought to be irresistible. The families behind Farko agreed, seeking to add glory to their families.
"And impressive warriors will need impressive arms." Gora offered. "I'll assist you in researching better weaponry for not only your men but all of our men as well but such an act might be costly."
"What are you proposing I give you in return?" Farko asked.
"Not from you dear Farko." Gora smiled and look to Aerya. "I think its time we visited our friends down south are doing. It has been awhile since we caught up with the Sammah Ajihva-Tahna. A diplomat for some new toys. That is all I ask."
"More schemes I take it?" Aerya hissed but she knew that Gora had his ways. As much as she detested the Krakar and his methods, he had a way of getting things done. There wouldn't be another one like him in a thousand years and he knew that all too well.
"Of course not." Gora shrugged. "We are on trading terms with them and it is only fitting that we keep up with the contract. A contract is an important thing to keep track of. We've one with the Deep Tribes already but I wonder who did that."
"Fine then. Send your diplomat but anything you do to them in their city is on your head." Aerya threatened.
"What happened to community?" Gora tilted his head to the side, shrugging off the taunt as he would a snowflake.
(Minor)Commission a shrine dedicated to Qartoq in Silver Claw
(Minor)Record a prayer/poem regarding Qartoq-Litany of the Goddess
(Minor)Found religious order known as "The Wings of Qartoq"
(Major)Train an elite unit-"Sacred Band of Kraai"(Specialized in open combat)
(Major)Research better weaponry-Curved swords that can be wielded by flying Krakaris
(Major)Send diplomat to Sammah Ajihva-Tahna
Grand Ajivha: The Artisan Ward
Indraj-Alika, Apprentice Smith
A kick to the shins and Indraj awoke. He had spent the night at work on Ari, delicately inlaying his name on her hilt, after finishing he had fallen asleep at the bench. His master saw it fit to wake him.
'Get up boy. The Vazin's men will be collectin' the swords soon, we cant have yah sleeping around the shop. Make yourself decent and go fetch me some supplies from that merchant down the way'
A grunt of acknowledgement and Indraj rose from his less than comfortable resting place and stumbled over to a bucket in the rooms corner. A splash of water to the face and he was ready for his morning chores.
The merchant down the way had an unhelpful habit of chatting ones ear off, it wasn't until an hour later that Indraj returned to the store, greeted by a exuberant master.
'You just missed 'em! Five men all dressed in armour and the like, carried off the swords all by themselves.'
The smile of his face was clearly the result of the coins now bulging in his pocket. Then, something caught Indraj's eye, a single blade left standing against the wall.
'Master, did you oversee the transport yourself?'
A look of confusion came to the man's face.
'No, I left with the commander to sort out finance. Why?'
A point was enough. In another situation the shade of red on his master's face would have been entertaining.
'No! That's impossible! The men said, fifty blade. They counted them!'
'Then why is there one le...'
He hadn't put Ari away. The sword had been left in his hand all night, right next to the Vazin's swords.
A quick search of the room proved his fear, Ari was gone.
Two Weeks Later
Indraj turned into the street of the forge. For once he'd decided to sleep at home, his mother had scolded him for spending to much time at work. Not much had come from losing Ari's, after failing to catch the guards up Indraj had put in an application to speak to someone at the palace, naturally he had received no response. It had reached the point of resigned sadness, there was nothing to be done so he may as well get on with it, no one was going to speak to him. With that in mind he was surprised at the armed escort in front of his workplace.
'Indraj-Alika?'
The commander spoke; the bored gruff voice of a man who'd spent far too long as a city guard.
No use in lying.
'Yes sir.. Um... whats this is about?'
'Nothing bad, you are simply requested at the palace'
Despite his weary tone the man was suitably polite. Indraj's master, currently storming out of the workshop, was not.
'By the gods what did you do boy!? Is it theft? Have you stolen from me? I'll have your head if you've stolen from me!'
His face had taken that shade of red again, a good sign it was time to leave. Besides, the guards were his superior, they had given him a Job.
'Please, lead the way.'
The 'please' was slightly more stressed than normal.
Despite a retentively calm exterior Indrajs mind was going a mile a minutes. It was a long walk to the palace, plenty of time to run over every possibility. He decided he had either misfiled his Application Of Conference or the guards had discovered his master committed him from the yearly tax records. It wasn't until he found himself in the Chamber of the Vazin that he changed his mind.
Around the room sat around thirty people; scholars, craftsmen, beggars, every group in the city had a representation, a cross section of the populous. All were visibly tense, even those familiar with courtly life had never expected a personal call from the Vazin. The less fortunate were terrified, a few even eyeing the exits in hope of a daring escape. The only calm face was that of the man himself, their host for the day. The most powerful man in Ajivha-Tahna sat on the rooms only chair, calmly surveyed the group, blue eyes piercing each one in turn. When he saw Indraj he nodded and gestured the lad to sit. Then, he spoke, his voice clear and authoritative.
'Now that everyone is here we can begin. You have been called here because you are exceptional, each in your own way. I have been given a task, a choice if you will. However even I am not certain as to what I am choosing, at least not the specifics. So now, we wait. '
Several minutes passed in silence. Eventually a few in the crowd began to whisper to their neighbour, some nervously laughing as if they had been the butt of a joke. More time passed, all the wile the Vazin sat with a knowing look upon his face. In the end it was Indraj who spoke, he wasn't sure why
'My lord, forgive me for asking but; what are we waiting for?'
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
