The Age of Unrest

[Mauril Everleaf]

Each faction will be given 4 points: Religion, Military, Commerce, Politics
Religion points can be spent on building temples (or destroying them, if you'd like), sending out religious emissaries (the gods like having followers), or other specifically religious actions.
Military points can be spent on training armies, moving armies, attacking areas, policing borders or other specifically military things.
Commerce points would be spent on additional agriculture, sending a merchant group, working mines or clearing forests, or other specifically commercial issues.
Political points can be spent on sending diplomats, spies and scouts, on festivals, carnivals and banquets or anything specifically internal or externally political.

Edit: Removed resources.

Every Monday and Thursday I (the Game Master of this adventure) will post a synopsis of the world up-to-date as well as any new incidents that have arisen. In this post I will also inform each player of any "random encounters" that have cropped up in their territory. These events may be natural disasters, rebellions, pirate raids, adventuring parties, interesting discoveries or unique opportunities. When the parallel RL "micro-campaign" party enters your territory, you may be appraised of this, their intentions and goals, and you are given the opportunity to spend a "free action" on them. Each of these actions will be filtered by me and I will return back to you the results.

After the synopsis and incidents have been posted, the players will have until Thursday night to decide and post their actions. Thursday night I will review the posts and compile a short synopsis of the various actions including a mention of the resources spent by each faction. Between that post and the following Monday, you may revise or clarify actions. I will post the updated synopsis and new incidents and a new round will begin.

Obviously, you are free to PM me during the week to ask about actions (their cost, feasibility, legitimacy, etc.). You may receive some information about your faction via PM but most information will be received in the in-game threads. I ask that you release most information the same way. Information that is supposed to be secret between two or more players may be handled through PMs between the two players, but some mention should be listed in the thread and I (the GM) should receive a PM regarding the content of the discussion as well as the end result of the discussion. Other secret actions, such as sending a spy, should be PM'd to me and I will advise on how to mark the point spent and then, at an appropriate time, reveal via PM the results of the secret action.

Edits and updates to the rules may occur. If they do, it will be noted in a post in the thread and then this post will be updated.

Players and their factions are as follows:
{table]Devas|Virgo
Human|Oracle_Hunter
Eladrin|Halaster
Elves|Xondoure
Shadar-Kai|Anonomuss
Orogs|AgentPaper
Dwarves|VirOath[/table]
The remaining factions (Gnomes, Halflings, Lizardfolk, Kobolds and Goliaths) may be picked up at later dates, but until then will be run as GM factions. They are available to be dealt with and will influence the world. Please keep them in mind.

Most importantly, please keep in mind that this is a roleplaying game and as such it is designed for us to have fun. Please enjoy yourselves and I cannot wait to see how this world turns out.

The OOC thread can be found here. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=110406)

EDIT List
May 23, 2009: Removed rules on resources, added mention of second day of posting and edited player table.
May 28, 2009: Edited player table

[Mauril Everleaf]

The History of Wilwarin

The First Age: The Dawn and the Oath
The First Age dawned soon after the ascension of the Phaounm. The gods had created the world and were content to leave it as it was, full of animals and plants and mountains and rivers. It was full of life, but none of it sentient. They liked it this way. They each ruled over their domains of Sky, Earth and Sea and liked the world that they had created. But, after some time, Earth and Sky noticed that something had changed. The animals and plants and mountains and rivers were not behaving like they always had. Something had changed. A group of beings had arisen to sentience and were beginning to develop. They had established for themselves a settlement off the coast of the southern sea. This was distressing to the gods. They had not created this life and it was ruining their perfect world. Earth wanted to destroy them, returning Wilwarin to what it should be, but Sky stayed her hand. Sky believed them to have much potential for the gods and should be allowed to live. Sea was unconcerned with them; they were not in his realm and therefore they were not his problem.

These sentient beings began to develop further, settling down and harvesting the bounty of the land. They pulled fish from the sea and fruit from the earth and gave thanks to both for their blessings, but most of all they thanked Sky. They knew that it was he that had saved them from destruction. They built him temples and offered him sacrifices. This city became known among them as Sharinoius, or the City of Sky, Earth and Water, and the people began to call themselves the Phaounm which means "the first ones".

These Phaounm were not only of interest to the gods, but to two other beings as well: Deva and Tiefling. Deva was a being of pure good who lived in the Astral Sea and Tiefling was a demon from the Abyss. The two often rivaled over events in the cosmos. When the news of the Phaounm reached them, they decided to make a wager. Both would leave their kingdoms and enter the world of this new creature who called itself the Phaounm. Deva and Tiefling would try and convince the Phaounm to follow their ways. The winner would be granted the souls of the Phaounm in the afterlife. The rule however between the two is that neither could make direct contact with the creatures and most only influence indirectly. The two signed the agreement knowing that should they break their oath, dire consequences that they could not foresee or predict would befall them. Deva settled down in the east and Tiefling established himself in the west. Both set about their plans to influence the Phaounm.

Many centuries passed and the Phaounm developed further and began to spread out, settling their portion of Wilwarin. Some settlers moved north along the river and others moved westward along the coast. One group of settlers who had moved as far west as they could manage stumbled across something that they should not have: a Tiefling encampment. Both Tiefling and Deva had begun to proliferate and had each become a race of people inhabiting Wilwarin. These creatures intrigued the curious and adventurous Phaounm and they approached them. The Tieflings welcomed these Phaounm and were asked many questions. The Tieflings gladly answered them. They believed that this contact, since it was initiated not by them, did not violate the rules of the oath with Deva, and gave the Phaounm much information about the world they inhabited. These westward Phaounm began to establish good relations with the Tieflings. Knowing this, the Devas believed that they had won their bet and showed themselves to the Phaounm and welcomed them.

Now, as celestial contracts go, neither side is free of the deal even with the other has broken the terms. Because the Tieflings had directly affected the development of the Phaounm and the Devas had willfully made contact with them, both had broken their oath and now both were set to face the consequences. This ushered in the beginning of the Second Age.


The Second Age: The Time of Change
The Oath, as it was referred to, between Deva and Tiefling was broken and now both were suffering the consequences. Tiefling and Deva were very powerful beings and had shaped their world to fit their tastes. Deva's portion of Wilwarin was lush and sunny and warm. Things never changed and life was abundant and beautiful. Tiefling's world was dark and things changed at his whim. Life was scarce but hearty. But the breaking of the Oath broke their magic and their control over their world. Things began to change in the east and they began to regulate in the west. Seasons came and went. The sun rose and set. The world was falling into a rhythm that neither being could do anything about. Both were stripped of their right to rule in the Astral Sea or the Abyss and their magics slowly started to retreat from the world.

Things were not all down for the Oathbreakers, however. Each had influenced a portion of the Phaounm and each had taken some into their portion of the world. These two emigrant groups called themselves the Haoumun and the Shadrachille which mean "step-children" and "far ones" in the language of the Phaounm. The Haomun continued to move east and settled down with the Devas in their lands. Soon they began to call themselves the Humans and had created their own language and culture. The Shadrachille moved west but did not settle in the Tiefling cities but instead established their own settlement on the eastern coast of the southern sea. They called this city Cos'ndorcha because it was their shield and renamed themselves the Shadar-Kai. Knowing that other intelligent beings inhabited their world, the remaining Phaounm began to become wary of another outsider coming in and stealing away their people, as the Devas and Tieflings seem to have done.

Several centuries passed and little changed in the world. The Phaounm had continued to advance themselves. The Humans and Devas had established their hierarchy and had begun to conquer and tame the East. The Tieflings went about their own business and the Shadar-Kai slowly began to become more and more secretive. Within four hundred years their remained almost no Shadar-Kai on the surface. They had begun to retreat into the caves they had discovered below their city.

Another group, known as the Orogs, had cropped up to the west of Phaounm territory. They were nomads that largely kept to themselves. They were a far-reaching group, extending from the northern sea to the western coast nearly to its southernmost tip. However, they were a quiet people that left to themselves.

Many more centuries passes with little in the way of noteworthy occurrences. Until the arrival of the Eladrin.

The Eladrin were a fanatical faction of the Shadar-Kai who were no longer content to live under Cos'ndorcha. They returned to the surface and began to make themselves known in the west. They worshipped the Earth fervently and sought to convert any who could not match their zeal. They called themselves the Eladrin because they had lifted themselves out of the darkness and into the light. They could not, however, find purchase among their brethren nor the Tieflings and moved westward to establish their own cities. The Eladrin relied heavily on magic, believing it to be the gift of Earth, their goddess. They moved into Orog lands and began to terraform the mountains. They established their city on the cliffside by molding the stone with their arcane power. This bothered the mountain tribe of Orogs, who believed the earth was meant to be coexisted with, not abused.

The Eladrin tried to convert the local Orogs to their religion, but the Orogs would not agree with the way the Eladrin treated the earth. This angered the Eladrin who began to subjugate the mountain people, forcing them to become slaves. Within a century, the Eladrin had taken over the mountains and split the Orogs into two groups, one in the mountains and one in the plains. The Eladrin, on the backs of their slaves, built for themselves and fanatical empire in the West. But they wanted more.


The Third Age: The Time of Turmoil
The Eladrin were not satisfied with their mountain kingdom. Their members had become more fanatical and had begun to follow a prophet who claimed to have been given revelation by Earth herself telling of a time when all worshiped her and when the Eladrin ruled her domain. This was taken as proof to the Eladrin that they needed to continue to expand and convert or conquer the rest of the world. So they began to build an army and started to march eastward. They quickly conquered the Orog lands, although many of its people eluded capture and harried the Eladrin forces as they continued to march towards the Phaounmic lands.

The Eladrin, and the Shadar-Kai before them, grew up being told tales of how fertile and lush the world was to the east of dividing rivers. The Eladrin envied this world and wanted it for themselves. They marched to the southern dividing river and crossed into Phaounm lands. The Phaounm had been warned by the Orogs that trouble was coming their way. They Phaounm, with the aid of several Orog tribes, were able to hold the river. The Phaounm, though they did not desire to do so, knew they were not capable of driving off the magical army of the Eladrin and sent word to the Devas and their Human cousins asking for aid. The Devas responded and sent several legions of troops to the battlefront, turning the tide of what would have otherwise been a bloody Eladrin victory.

This combined four army force drove the Eladrin back into their mountains. The Orogs would have liked to have destroyed the Eladrin, but the support of the Phaounm and Deva ended as soon as the Eladrin no longer posed an immediate threat. Because of this the two Orog tribes would be forever split. The tribe that remained in the plains retained their people name while the Orogs in the mountains began to refer to themselves as the Goliaths, a term that means "cut off" in Katholik.

It was not long after the Devic army had returned home that dissension began to boil in the east. A faction of the Humans did not believe that they had been adequately compensated for their efforts in the war. In fact, they did not receive any compensation whatsoever. The Devas could not understand why this group felt like it deserved more. They were a part of the military and they were sent to do their duty; you receive nothing extra for doing what you are supposed to do. This unrest soon turned into an outright rebellion. This rebellion was lead by a group that called themselves the Elves, a word that means "freedom" in Phaounmic. This insurrection could be called only partially successful, at best. These Elves did not receive any compensation, and many were forcefully put down by Devic military, but a large portion of them were able to free themselves of Devic rule and escape into the central forest, which they called the Bosquemal. They have been trapped their since, but they are no longer subject to Devic rule, so many Elves count the rebellion as a victory.

War, however, was not the worst thing to befall Wilwarin. Greater and more terrible things were soon to happen to this world.


The Fourth Age: The Age of Darkness and Terror
The Elves had barely moved into the Bosquemal when a great tremor shook the world. Something had been awoken that should not have been. A great volcano had erupted pouring forth soot and ash. This mountain, which the Phaounm called Haleinedfeut, contained a beast that had not been seen before on the face of Wilwarin: a dragon. The Phaounm had been mining the mountain for the gold it contained and apparently awoke the great wyrm who had been slumbering there since before the dawn of time.

Haleinedfeut's eruption blanketed the world in a cloud of smoke and ash, blotting out the sun for three years. Vegetation died and animal life along with it. Cities that had not stored up food began to starve. To make matters worse, a being of unmatched power had been unleashed on the world. This dragon was not pleased that it had been disturbed and desired revenge on those that had awoken it. It had been sequestered for a reason, and the reason was quickly becoming clear.

The entirety of Wilwarin was devastated by this disaster, with the exception of one of its newest peoples, the Gnomes. The Gnomes were originally a group of the Eladrin that, after the Great War of the Third Age, had moved out of the mountains and into the forest. They had originally opposed the expansion and had remained behind to guard the cities while the main Eladrin force went out to conquer and convert. When they were driven back, the Eladrin blamed their failure on the ones who had stayed behind. The Gnomes left the cities and settled along the river in the Urman Forest. This forest, much like the Bosquemal, contained some of the old magic that had not yet receded from the world, and it began to change the Gnomes. The Bosquemal had made the Elves more lithe, lengthened their lives and altered their appearance somewhat, while the Urman Forest stunted the growth of the Gnomes and altered their magic.

The Gnomes, upon leaving the Eladrin, began to infiltrate other cities and began to work their way into the commercial realm. Somehow the Gnomes knew of the coming disaster and began to store up surplus goods, especially grains and weapons. The Gnomes trickled their grain stocks into the markets are premium prices, and they would get them, because no one else had any grain to offer. When the world had begun to run out of food, wars were waged over the remaining resources and the Gnomes were there to sell them weapons. The Gnomes did very well in these dark times, but their stockpiles were still no safeguard against the rage of the wakened dragon.

Haleinedfeut terrorized the lands, destroying cities and what few crops remained. He could not be brought down by any power that any nation possessed. He was more powerful than any being that had ever set foot on Wilwarin. He breathed his destruction across the countryside for three years. Finally a group of priests, worshipers of Sea, went to him and begged him to release them from the bondage that Haleinedfeut had placed them under. Sea, feeling sorry for them, decided to bind the great wyrm if the priests would return him a favor. Sea had fallen for the Gnomes and wanted to see more of them, especially more of them that worshiped him. Sea agreed to bind the dragon if these priests agreed for them and their families to become cursed with stunted growth, shrinking to half their normal height. The priests, confused by the request but desperate to release the world from the marauding dragon, agreed to the curse. Sea then captured the dragon and imprisoned him back in his mountain.

These priests returned home to their families and tried to keep the news of their exploits on the tongues of every street crier as long as they could. They became known as the Halflings and were very celebrated for some time. It became apparent that the curse that Sea had placed on them and their families was stronger than any had expected, and the grandchildren of the renown Halflings were also small. Realizing that they were no longer truly Humans, these families moved out of their homes and began to roam as they pleased about the Devic Empire. They were not Humans anymore, and the Devic Laws specifically referred to Humans, so they felt free to do as they pleased in the various cities they decided to settle in. Some set themselves up with the Human Far Traders and began to distribute themselves about the continent. Within a few decades, Devic laws began to reflect the existence of the people known as the Halflings, but a society and precedent for freedom among them had already been set.

And so the fourth age would end, the shortest of the ages.


The Fifth Age: The Age of Exploration
Human Equites had begun to explore the seas, as had the Phaounm. Both had been accustomed to being at sea, but both were beginning to develop the technology to make it possible to venture away from the coastlines. Trade routes had begun to cross the southern sea, which had been come to be known as the Serpent Sea for it was dangerous and wild.

A third faction was also in command of the seas, a group that called themselves the Dwarves. They were a raiding people, long ago descended from the Orogs. When the Orogs had expanded their range, a tribe became locked beyond the Westfold Mountains and were stuck on the ice fields beyond. Rather than remain on the barren ice, these Dwarves took to the sea in longships. Their ships were more maneuverable than either the Devas' or the Phaounm's and were the only ones capable of navigating the Pohjanpuoleinen, a dangerous series of shoals, narrows and icebergs in the Farovian Sea.

The Dwarves were a savage people who used the sea not for trade, but for hunting. They hunted the sea for food and the coastlines for plunder. They terrorized northern coastal towns, even sailing up rivers as far inland as Almoris. They would raid and loot cities before a defense could be raised and were gone before help could ever arrive.

The Humans, while exploring the Serpent Sea, discovered an incredible island and not one, but two exotic beings living there. One was a race of small dog-like reptilian people living in a series of caves. These people called themselves the Kobolds, and claim to have lived in their caves for thousands of years. Below them, in a massive swamp, lived a group of larger reptilians that were dubbed the Lizardfolk, as the name they called themselves was unpronounceable by the Humans that met them. Both races claimed to have lived on the island for millennia. The Kobolds seemed to want to be left alone in their caves, which they would not let the Human explorers into, but the Lizardfolk were very intrigued by the soft-skinned people that had landed on their island. The Humans brought word of this island back to the mainland and news quickly spread of these new peoples that had been discovered.

Another new discovery that would soon shock the world was an explosive powder that could be made of various alchemical ingredients. The Devas had discovered that with the right chemicals, saltpeter from the Valderian Swamp could be made to explode. Within a few decades of this discovery weapons that utilized this new power began to emerge. Cannons and guns, developed by the Devas, began to trickle onto the market and also began to cement the Devic Empire as a trading force. Saltpeter was also discovered by the Gnomes in the Great Marsh, which they promptly began to sell to the Devas.

Technology became the focus of many nations over the next century. Some remained in the old ways, preferring their traditional weapons to these new gunpowdered weapons. Some, like the Eladrin, preferred to stick to their magic.


The Sixth Age: The Age of Unrest
All the players have been set, and the events have been told. And so dawns the Sixth Age, an age that has been foretold to contain much turmoil. Powers will wax and wane. Heroes will rise and fall, as will villains. Secrets that have been hidden since the beginning of time will finally be revealed. The world will change, but how it will change remains to be seen.

[Mauril Everleaf]

Maps of the various regions:
Wilwarin (http://nbrs6121.deviantart.com/art/Labeled-Map-121091846)
Devic Empire (http://nbrs6121.deviantart.com/art/Devic-Empire-121342790)
Tieflings
Eladrin Kingdom (http://nbrs6121.deviantart.com/art/Eladrin-Map-121556539)
Phaounm
Gnomes
Draegland
Dwarves and Pohjanpuoleinen
Goliaths
Orogs (http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/7633/oroglands.jpg)

[Mauril Everleaf]

Government and trade agreements as created in the other thread stand, and the technological advancements that have been discussed are available. Some trade routes are established and currently no nations are actively warring with any others. Peace, if tenuous, rules over Wilwarin.

Phaounm: You have received word from Glaeriel, a small village in the north, of raids on their village. You also are receiving urging from your generals to bolster your army to defend your territory from outsiders.

Devas: You have some unrest among the Halflings, especially in your port cities. They are rumored to be dealing under the table or otherwise circumventing the laws. You are also hearing rumors of a Human cult arising in your territory.

Humans: Your far traders (both Mercators and Equites) are having trouble reaching the Shadar-Kai and Goliaths. Some suspect Eladrin meddling, but proof leads you to believe that it is goblins.

Elves: The forest, a place that you knew to be wild when you entered it ages ago, has started to become increasingly dangerous. Something seems out of place, as creatures that usually leave your villages alone are no longer doing so.

Tieflings: (since Djinn is currently away) You are amidst something of a civil war. The Guild currently rules but is losing power, and you, the Archmage, need to make final your quest to once again rule the Tieflings.

Shadar-Kai: The few watercraft that you had have been destroyed in a sea storm. Some of your best units have been lost. The generals of your special forces are calling for supplemental troops.

Eladrin: The Goliaths to your southwest are becoming much more difficult to handle. You had chosen to ignore them for the last several decades, but they have taken advantage of this and have increased their numbers.

Orogs: One of your smaller tribes, which was absent at the most recent trademeet, is attacking Gnomish caravans that travel through its lands, violating an agreement that you had made with the Gnomes.

Dwarves: Two of your mightiest war parties, on their way to go sack some northern villages, were sunk in the Pohjanpuoleinen (the icy sea to your north). You find no reason that they should have sunk in the sea you know so well.

These are your initial conditions. I know they are broad. As gameplay goes on, things will become more specific or contain bigger obstacles. The amount of in-game time that I would like to have pass would be about two weeks, so gauge your actions accordingly.

I am in the process of cleaning up my inbox (so that I have room for PMs), so hopefully by the time someone wants to PM me, they can.

[Virgo]

The Devic Empire

A caravan of wagons winds its way across the Devic Empire, bearing two different sets of flags on the carefully-crafted vehicles; one set of banners mint-green with a silver imprint of a sword, the other set grey with the black silhouette of a branch. In the largest wagon, an elaborate tented one surrounded by mounted guards, two male Devas recline on pillows, one drinking water and the other examining a thick sheaf of papers.

The Devic Lord Moranis finishes his drink and looks at his travel companion. "How pleasant that our business should bring us both to Almoris, is it not?"

The other Deva, Lord Anduvar, looks up from his papers and smiles. "Indeed, Moranis; I've had worse travel partners." He whistles and a messenger rides up alongside their wagon and stick his head in. Anduvar deftly folds one of his papers and hands it to the man. "Take this to Ophera. I'll be in the city for a while yet, my boy, so rest on the way back up; I'll not hold it against you."

As the messenger speeds off, a cry goes up from the lead guard of the caravan: "Almoris ahead!"

-----

An older Devic man in impeccable orange silks- Lord Ethetica, as it happens- greets the two Devic Lords with a bow, and after brief pleasantries they go their separate ways. Moranis and Anduvar attend their business while Ethetica returns to his own home, hardly having sat for a momet before his daughter is shown in.

He smiles warmly and bows. "Lady Oberanth. It is ever a pleasure to see you. I trust your business is well?"

The younger Devic woman sighs and rolls her eyes. "Father, please. You know perfectly well that 'my business is well.' In fact, I just finished the last of my letters, so I was hoping you'd join me for dinner. Did you see Moranis and Anduvar?"

"They said to start without them." He holds out an arm and she takes it. "And I've quite beaten you to the punch on dinner; the kitchen will have it prepared in an hour. Now tell me about this most recent business."

"Yes," his daughter says as they leave the room. "Their Majesties thought it would be a good idea to provide temples in the Merchant Districts, so I've been arranging..."

-----

Point Allocation-
Commerce: Produce weaponry for export by the Humans.
Military: Strengthen border security at Phaounm and Elven borders as well as on incoming-outgoing ships in port towns.
Religion: Establish small temples/shrines to the Sky god in each of the Mercant Districts of the Phaounm cities.
Politics: Internal affairs

[Anonomuss]

Shadar Kai

Illic Marren surveyed the crowd gathered in the central square of Cos'ndorcha, many merchants, seamen, and simply those who watched on at the ceremony of the event. He took his place at the front of the assembled crowd. He raised his voice above the dim hubbub that always accompanied such a crowd.

"Thank you all for coming, the Queen sends her humblest apologies, but she is unable to attend this event. She wishes the merchants of the town her sincerest condolences at the loss of so many commercial vessels. To show her truest sympathies, the guards and artisans in the cities employ have been doing their utmost to replace the lost vessels.

He nodded at one of the few Shadar that were in attendance, and he nodded back and then at the other guards in attendance. They pulled great tarps off the boats and they were the crowd gathered for a closer look. This was what the Shadar had laboured at all week. They had seen a few pass here and there collecting timber. Some sighed and departed, disappointed at the mundaneness of the measure. The merchants however appeared delighted at their new ships and ran to examine the new vessels.

"The Queen," Illic continued, "asks you only to aid in the construction of a temple in the Earth Goddess' honour by the bayside, to shield this new fleet from a similar destruction as the last one."

Some mumbled at this, but they all agreed with loud voice, still overjoyed at the renewal of their trade.

Illic smiled. "The Queen shall be pleased that you like the gift. We hope that you may grace our coast for many years hence.

~~~~~

Point Allocation
Commerce: Rebuilding Commercial Naval Fleet.
Military: Used to aid the rebuilding of the Commercial Naval Fleet.
Religion: Petition the Earth Goddess to shield the Shadar's new Naval vessels from the Sea God's wrath.
Politics: Covert Operations

[Xondoure]

Elven Forest

The sun begins to set over elven lands. The druids stir with unease, feeling the anger of the forest. High Priest Darion sighs, "We had hoped to begin our exploration of the world soon, but our home must take precedence; summon the druidic council."
At his will, the wind whispers the summons across the elven lands on the wings of melancholy black songbirds.

The Lord Istarel is the first to be reached by the dark song. Leaving his people to fend for themselves, he quickly arrives at the meeting point for his clans representatives. The other twelve Istarel lords; Astrel, Rosar, Joza, Lian, Grey, Sador, Iermo, Coreson, Fione, Huanai, Daiyana, and the youngest Lord Anzion soon assemble. Without a word the thirteen Istarel lead their clans to the elvish council, a procession of light in the dark.

By the time the moon has reached its peak, the council is assembled at the roots of the great oak. Darion then rises "Our forest grows darker by the day, its wildlife more cunning, and even more fierce. If we do not discover the source of this unrest, we may to be engulfed by the darkness, and we all know the consequences of such an event; Locura."
The elves rise in an uproar of shouts and protests, "SILENCE! Are we not elves? We, who have survived the torment of the gods themselves? In nature all problems have an answer, as does this one." Lord Istarel's commanding voice leaves silence in its wake, as reason returns to the council. "I suggest that until the druids find an answer, we spread our forces around the more vulnerable elvish settlements. And we must not loose our goal of reentering the outside world. The druids will only be bound a little longer, we must use this time to prepare them and our people to spread over Wilwarin." Istarel then takes his seat waiting for the response of the elven lords. "All in favor rise from your positions." the majority of the Elvish council quickly rises from their seats, Only the Lord Etruon and three of his clan representatives remained seated.
"My fellow elves, will you make provisions for Oscuroble?"
silence spreads through the crowd.
The Lady Lisseln snaps at Etruon shouting "How dare you look towards your own people with such mistrust, there is nothing to be gained by seeking out the earth cult. They are allowed their own path by the very nature of elvish tradition!"
Istarel places a hand on the Lady's shoulder before facing Etruon, "As you wish, you may send your men as you see fit, But do not expect the support of the other clans in this endeavor."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
military: Reinforce elvish patrols around elvish cities to prevent casualties.
commerce: Grow crops, priorities; grapevine (wine, trading good)*, and grain (travel rations, food).
religion: Find source of disturbance.
political: Etruon investigates earth cult (covert operation).
*May be subject to change.

[Oracle_Hunter]

Apollo Spartenos banged his meaty fist on the table, upsetting the maps and reports that were scattered across it. "Maris Incendium, vanished? An entire shipment of muskets, lost, and nobody knows what happens?" The assembled Equites sat mute, unable to provide any useful information and unwilling to call Apollo's rage upon their own head. Well, all except for one.

"Patriarch, there is no use in pissing and moaning about that which is already done. We have dealt with pirates before; even if these are more sneaky than most, they will die all the same when given a broadside. If you are finished venting your spleen, may I propose a plan?"

Apollo narrowed his eyes menacingly and glared at the small, dark-haired woman. "Make it quick."

Alvita Spartenos stood up and addressed the assemblage of Spartenos.
"If the fox goes to ground, we send baying hounds to flush it from the brush; place a reward for the return of our muskets that is so high that the Latronis Aquoreus will burn the waves rushing out to collect it. In the meantime, the Maris Ater will visit the southern Phaounm ports and spread word of our reward. Sooner or later, someone will get a lead and spill it over drinks - and then I will be there to scoop it up and deal with our shadow pirates myself."

Apollo grunted and grabbed a turkey leg from his plate. "Alvita, I will do your plan. If you succeed, then I will grant you the route you desire. If you fail, then this reward will come out of your share of the Equester profits until it is repaid." After tearing a huge chunk of flesh from the bone, he grunts a dismissal, and all but Alvita and her Dominius Telum fled the room.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes
Latronis Aquoreus = licensed pirate hunters; organized as a guild

Actions
Commerce: Weapons-for-Metal Trade with Shadar-Kai
Military: Hunt for goblins at sea
Political: Secret
Religion: Increased distribution of Codex Insurgo

Secret Political Action (Deva & DM only)
Ongoing negotiations between a human Dominius Otacustes (Chief Operative) and Shadar-Kai agent.

[AgentPaper]

North of Dachau
Issak held up his hand. "We camp here for the night."

Behind him, another orog struck the ground with the butt of his spear. "This is ridiculous, the sun still shines and yet we make camp? Bad enough you made us leave the horses behind. We should be marching day and night to find these savages!"

"Calm yourself, Ingolf. We had to leave the horses behind or we would not have been able to follow the scent. These "savages" as you call them hide their tracks well. You would do well not to underestimate them."

Ingolf cringed. "I apologize, Shaman Aurel, but I wish we would catch these rogues soon. Still, you must admit that this is strange behavior from the Vagoth. I always thought they liked the gnomes!"

Hartwin guffawed. "I heard they did too! More than is healthy, if you get my meaning!" Hartwin jabbed Ingolf in the ribs, his entire face contorting in an exaggerated wink.

Ingolf sighed. "Yes, Hartwin, I've heard the campfire tales told of Hengist and his romps through the various lands and especially peoples. And I've heard your version of it every night since we left Dachau."

"Ha-HA! Everyone know Hengis is quite the dog!" Sitting down, Hartwin continued, "Now that we resting for day, I tell you again exactly how he negotiated treaty with shorty-gnomes. That story never get old!"

----

"Well, what do you think? Do I look fancy enough to get along with those point-ears?"

"Ansgar, for the last time, covering yourself in stolen eladrin cloths and jewelry will not impress them. All you're going to do is make them think you killed an Eladrin noble on your way here. And his fat wife, by the look of those clothes."

"Well fine, I'll leave the jewelry behind, but I'm taking this robe with me!"

"That's a dress, not a robe! Women's clothing!"

"Ah, poor Gerlinde. Everyone knows there are no eladrin women, only girly men!"

----

Commerce: Grow crops (especially barely and hops) and raise horses, in preparation for the upcoming trademeet.
Military: Repel Eladrin from Nariscii lands.
Political: Emissary to Eladrin.
Religion: Investigate rogue tribe.

[Halaster]

The small chamber was lit with a flickering oil lamp. Ashim had been unable to afford magical lighting recently. Zara was sitting at the table, sobbing quietly. Ashim sighed.
You know I have to go. The army pays well and our child needs security. I cannot feed him working day jobs.
She looked up, tears in her eyes.
And if those mountain brutes kill you, who will feed your son then? Tell me that!
He walked over and took her by the shoulders.
It's just one tour of duty. I've got to take the chance. This is the biggest recruitment drive in years. They pay top coin.
A heavy knock shook the door and Zara stepped away from Ashim and through the threadbare curtain that separated the bedroom from the living room without another word. Ashim picke up his belongings and opened. The recruiter stood outside, decked out in the Royal Guard's shining armor. He slapped his chest with a fist.
For the glory of the kingdom, citizen Ashim. Are you ready to serve your people's destiny?
Ashim nodded silently and closed the door behind him.

----
The air in the valley was hot and stagnant. The slaves were toiling like beasts digging ditches and building stockades, but Ashim had no eyes for them. If they had all taken off for the mountains at that very instant, he wouldn't have noticed. His mind was with Zara. Suddenly a sharp rap on his helmet shook him from his daydream. He looked into the sharp, finely chiseled features of Lieutenant Rashal.
Well, well, well. Private Ashim has better things on minds than his duties again, hm? Some backstreet hussy, no doubt. Ashims hands clenched into fists, but he stayed silent, as the officer continued. Now, it seems we have to give you something to do that will keep your mind on the matters at hand. I've got just the task for you. I'm taking a platoon up there - he pointed at the distant mountains, where the drums and smoke signals had barely ceased all week- and catch myself a few of those animals for questioning. His Majesty wishes to know what they're up to. You have the honor of volunteering, private.
______________________________
Commerce: Barter with the Dwarves for slaves in exchange for magical items or spells
Military: Reinforce the Goliath border with fortifications, recruits and extra patrols
Political: Emissary to the Tiefling Archmage, offering the Eladrin Kingdom's support in their internal struggles
Religion: Seek oracles from the Earth Goddess in regards to the Goliaths

[VirOath]

((OOC: The RP for all of this will be up once I get the time(hopefully late tonight), these past few days have been insane x.x))
______________________________
Commerce: Focus production toward ships and warfare to make up for what has been lost.
Military: Double training and drills for all militia and Warparties on ground, preparing for a full blown search of our northern waters. Redirect any raiding parties already in the waters in the north to the Goliath shores instead until this is settled.
Political: Representative dispatched to the Eladrin kingdom to determine if they have any knowledge on fleet movements of other races that the Dwarves do not.
Religion: Have Priests of the Sea use divination and commune with the Sea to see if they can find the cause, and location. Acolytes not able to assist are to set Funeral Pyres and Feasts for the warriors in those warparties to celebrate their passing to the Trials.

[Sea]

The Earth Goddess, protect ships from ME? Ha! We'll see about that! :smalltongue:

As for the hard-drinking Dwarves - losing one fleet I can understand, but losing two just seems irresponsible. :smallwink: The mighty Sea will aid you in your inquiry, because I like your style.

[Mauril Everleaf]

This is the oracle that Illic Maren received through the prophetess of Earth. "Illic, my dear, you have asked for a great thing. Sea is not so easily controlled. He is chaotic and strong. I am powerful, but you are asking a great thing of me. Your offer is generous, but is not sufficient for the thing you ask. As long as you remain loyal to me, and maintain this temple you are constructing, I will guard your ships along the coast. I cannot protect them in open water for that is not my domain." The prophetess seemed to speak this all without taking a breath. Her body seemed controlled, that she was merely a conduit, a mouthpiece. As Illic was preparing to leave, the prophetess stopped him. "Before you go, keep this in mind and carry it back to your Queen. You know me and you know what becomes of those that ask things of me. I warn you to not take this request lightly." The prophetess slumped onto the floor, exhausted. It seems that even being her mouthpiece has a cost. Illic then left the temple to carry word to his Queen.

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

A message to the High Priest in the Eladrin High Tower from an aspect of Earth. "I bear a message from my Mistress. She hears your request and would like to know what you are prepared to offer her. She does not give her divine grace without recompense. She does advise you to keep your borders tight. The Goliaths are not a people to be trifled with." The aspect, a tall and slender female figure, delivered this message in the center of the temple. When she was finished, she closed her eyes and stepped into the tree that dominates the center of the temple. Those that saw her could not forget her words and could not remember her face.

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

(As Sky has not become available yet, I will also play that part until further notice.)

Sky looks down on the construction of the temples the Devas are constructing and approves. He makes no special province for them, as it is their duty to construct these temples, but he does give the workers pleasant weather to work in.

[Mauril Everleaf]

(Posting as the Tieflings in Djinn_In_Tonic's stead)

The Archmage is pacing the halls of his university. He finally discovers the person he has been searching for. "You. Boy. Come to me." As he spoke, he made an abrupt gesture indicating that the student was not being asked. "What have you found about the defenses the Guild Master has set up?"
"Your M-m-magnificence, their d-defenses are weak. We sh-should have no trouble entering the Guildhouse and d-d-destroying him," the young Warlock stammered. He had never spoken directly to the Archmage before.
The Warlock had barely finished his sentence when he was struck in the face by the Archmage. "You insolent wretch. You should know better than to speak of such things. You know our ways, or honored ways. We will not destroy him. We cannot destroy him. We are simply removing him from power. He is no longer fit to lead our people. He has taken too much control. We must be seen as liberators, not usurpers. Now go, make the final preparations for our assault on the Guildhouse."
In a swirl of robes, the Archmage turned and headed to his study to prepare for his duel. And his crown.

--------

Religion: Not currently in control of the church
Political: Stir up propaganda for the Archmage and against the Guild Master
Military: Bring in the final recruits for the upcoming battle and send out saboteurs into the Guild Master's government
Commerce: Negotiate with merchants on mercantile relations in the upcoming regime change

[Mauril Everleaf]

(Sorry for not getting this posted last night.)
Phaounm
Aldrean, a Phaounmic general, hurries down the halls of the Citadel in Sharinoius. Glaeriel has been sacked and the king must be warned. He bursts into the chambers prepared to report the need for an army to be mobilized.

---

Genevie ran through the forest. She was running as fast as she ever had. She had never run for her life before and with every gasped breath, she hoped that she would never have to again. As far as she knew she was the only one that had survived those monsters. Between gasps she wondered out loud to herself, "What were those scaly monsters? And how did they come from the sea?" She had no answers, only fear.

---

Military: Army is mobilized and moved towards Glaeriel to recapture the city.
Commerce: Increase of trade between Phaounm and Devas/Humans for arms and other goods
Religion: The Phaounmic priests offer sacrifices to Sky, praying for protection from this new enemy
Political: secret

------------------------------------------------------------------
Keeping in mind that this turn lasted about two weeks or so, here are the results of your actions.

Deva:
You are able to produce several shipments worth of weaponry, one of which is a load of muskets. Your western border forts have each been sent a new rotation of guards. In these two weeks, most of the forts have been changed, but some of the more distant forts have not received their new troops yet. The smallest and simplest of the shrines in the merchant district have been finished, but many are little more than repurposed merchant stalls. The more permanent structures are undergoing buerocratic review for permits and allocations. A few more weeks and ground should be broken on them.

Shadar-Kai:
Your commercial fleet is nearing completion. The hulls of several ships have been constructed near the harbor and several more are ribbed skeletons. You believe that you should have a full commercial fleet within a month. This is largely due to the aid offered by the military. Your petition to Earth has been heard, and her response has been delivered.

Elves:
You are able to shore up the defenses on your major cities, but your smaller villages do not have much in the way of defenses so, while their warriors are armed and on watch, they would fall very quickly if any sort of assault were to occur. The larger cities, ones that can afford to have a full guard patrol and still maintain normal operations, have continued to harvest the crops that are in season. The first crop of grapes are ready as well as other wild fruits and berries. Your grain fields are growing relatively well also. Your priests pray to Sky and your shamans seek the spirits to divine the trouble in your forest. The priests return you with little information; either Sky does not know or he is unable or unwilling to reveal the source of the disturbance. Your shamans return something a little more useful, the disturbance seems to be originating from within the very center of the forest. Etruon sends its spies and is waiting on their return.

Humans:
The human Equites take a shipload of weapons, largely muskets and some pistols, across the Serpent Sea. Their trip to the Shadar capitol is largely uneventful, or at least as uneventful sea travel can be in a world of pirates and sea monsters. Your ships were harried by two or three small pirate groups, but nothing that they were not able to handle. Your anti-goblin operations are semi-successful. They have discovered not the cause, but the source of the raids. They know that the raiders are stationed, the Western Spine, specifically the forest on the eastern slopes. It is within Goliath territory and borders the Gnomes. The efforts of the Codex Insurgonites were rather more prosperous. Their "churches" are growing in popularity, with thousands of new followers joining. This, obviously, has drawn some flak from the established churches and especially the Devas.

Orogs:
Barley and hops, while not quite in season, are growing quite nicely. They should be ready for harvest by the trademeet, however this year's crop will not be able to be converted into beer before the Trademeet. The cured crop from last season will have to do. The Nariscii horsemen make many raids on Eladrin forces in the southern lands. Neither side takes many losses, but the Nariscii were able to move their area of control further west. While relations between the Eladrin and Orog were tenuous at best before this, the Eladrin are likely to see this as a sign of open war. This does not bode well for your emissary, who did not make it long into Eladrin lands. Whether they were captured or killed is unknown to you. The rogue tribe, a group of about 300 orogs, claims that the Gnomes have desecrated some of their holy lands and that they have the right to repel them from their lands.

Eladrin:
The Eladrin send a envoy northward into the Dwarven lands. It takes nearly two weeks for them to cross through the pass and across the ice fields. They finally arrive at their Dwarven destination and are allowed to meet with the king of that tribe. Negotiations will commence in the following weeks. Meanwhile, your southern and western borders are receiving an influx of troops to guard against the almost continual Goliath raids. The increase in troops strengthens your border enough to repel any attack, and the Goliaths make little to no advance. The emissary that was sent southeast to the Tieflings was well received. The Archmage welcomes any support that you are willing to offer for the advancement of his people.

Dwarves:
Dwarven longboats, not requiring a keel or weaponry, are much simpler to make and in two weeks a full flotilla has been fashioned. The Pohjanpuoleinen is being abandoned as your patrols and raiding parties move southward to harry the Goliath coast. Your warparties and newly equiped fleet prepare to venture into the Pohjanpuoleinen to investigate what could be troubling their already trouubled sea. Your emissary to the Eladrin, knowing the ice fields better, arrives in a little over a week and begins negotiations with the Eladrin. Not wanting to give away their precious information for free, the Eladrin ask for some sort of compensation. Back at home, the priests ask Sea for aid in their search of his waters. He promises them simple sailing, or as simple as the Pohjanpuoleinen can be to sail.

Tieflings:
Your propoganda is effective; the people desire new leaders. The Guild Master has been becoming rather oppressive, forcing excessive taxes and laws on the free-willed Tieflings. The propoganda brings many of the Warlord's men onto the side of the Archmage nearly assuring his Victory. The saboteurs, however, were less profitable. While armed with many magicks, the Guild specializes in espionage and the arcanists had little chance against them. The merchants, an entity nearly as strong as the three factions, begins its negotiations with the Archmage, seeing that his victory is but weeks away.

[Xondoure]

(OOC: I believe I sent my armies to guard the smaller towns, but whatever)

The Lord Etruon gazes at the heart of the forest; the oak from which the Lealagu emanates into the world, healing the fractured souls of the elven people. What darkness could sit at the base of it's leafy branches, hidden from the world. This tree is my responsibility as lord of my clan. I will not fail that trust.
Unwilling to call the council, Etruon turns to his advisor, "Have our men found anything yet?"
"No my friend, and they may not for a thousand years were you to continue this search to fulfill your own selfish pride."
"Not now, I can not trust those who would so easily forget Locura."
The lord once again looks out into the unfolding branches of the tree. His hands fumbling with a small gem tied around his neck by a steel chain. "I guess now would be as good a time as any, summon the other Etruon lords, tonight we ignite the Voi Pura.

In the southern reaches of the forest, the Lisseln traders prepare to venture out into the world
"The waters flow up from the core
and enter waves of fellow streams
moving to the final themes
Until at last they float on high
right into the star filled sky"
Laughing as she sings along to the elven tunes, Silena Florani Lisseln sits back lazily on the rafts, letting her hand break the placid surface of the river.
"...and when the light of day is gone, only the free can see the sun..."
"Silena! It's time for you to come back to shore."
"But mom, I want to see the open plains, and the cities, I hear they build their houses out of stone, and they cut down the trees to build the foundation. Can you imagine how strange it must be to live in such an odd place?"
"I won't hear of it. The Deva are far to mistrusting of the elves, they believe us to be little more than savages, and while that only proves their arrogance, it would not be unheard of for all those who leave today to never return. Now come along, we must prepare for your coming of age, I still can't believe your already 40 winters old..."

As the new moon rises over the Bosquemal, the Etruon nobility gather around the oak. Each holds out a small white stone engraved with the symbol of the sky god. Slowly they begin to move around the tree seeking the energy force "Oh lord of the unconquerable heavens, we ask that you bring your light into the core of our beings, and purify all that is inside our humble domain. So that we may yet bask in the glory of the infinite."

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
military: Retain city perimeters, focus on more vulnerable towns
commerce: Launch trading party to Deva territory. goods: wine (100+ years) perfumes, wood (specially grown off of the tree).
religion: Pray to the Sky for purification, ready druids for departure.
political: Continuation of covert operations.

[SwordofTruth]

The Astral lights flicker and burst into brilliance and then dimmed into reverence as Sky entered the expanse. He was concerned. His followers below were in distress, and he did not know the answer. At a thought, Canis, commander of the Astral legion, appeared before his lord.

"Summoned, I come, my leige." said the angelic general with a sweeping bow.

"Canis, my faithful, dispatch your legions over the night sky. An answer must be found! But we must be cautious. The Others must know nothing about this." echoed the heavens.

"Of course, milord." responded Canis as he faded into the nether.

"This does not bode well for my people," thought Sky.
"I feel, that we have entered into a new age. An age of unrest."

[Oracle_Hunter]

Alvita Spartenos sat in her cabin, glowering at a piece of parchment. Dominus Sabina, the Maris Ater's armorer, sat in her customary spot by the liquor cabinet, unsure of what to say.
"Goblins. Everyone says it's goblins. Goblins in longboats. Swimming goblins with tar barrels. Sky's feet, even stories of Goblins riding Red Dragons and torching the Cos'ndorcha harbor before carrying off the Shadar Queen!"

Alvita turned her swivel chair towards Sabina.
"And we know where they are. Oh, all the stories say the same thing."

Alvita slams her hand down on her desk, rattling the plates left from dinner.
"In the middle of a windblasted forest or up in the god-forsaken mountains! We're sailors; what in the Nine Hells are we supposed to do now! Sail up side of Western Spine and broadside its peaks?"

Unfazed by the profanity, Sabina pulled out a bottle of rum and poured a generous splash into two tin cups and handed one to Alvita.
"The Patriarch has already sent word to the other Serpent Sea Equites; they sent a delegation to Their Majesties to ask for aid a few days ago. In the meantime, all of our ships will carry double guards to keep watch for Goblins while in Cos'ndorcha. Nobody will collect the reward - it is best to let it go."

Alvita's expression softened slightly, into a visage of frustration rather than rage.
"But I was so close. The Cos'ndorcha Route was in my grasp; I could have taken it from Gaius and then, after this year's Dinumeratio Aurum I could have made Admiralis! Think of what we could do with a fleet of our own."

Alvita downed her rum and sat in abstraction. Sabrina was certain that this storm had passed when she caught a predatory glint in Alvita's eye.
"The Latronis have stopped searching, which means we have the sea all to ourselves. We could investigate the raider's base ourselves - maybe catch them by surprise. A few longboats up the river... why, it would be easy!"

"But Captain, our men have no experience fighting monsters on land. Even the Classiari have done no more than counterattack pirate boarding actions - a land assault would be disastrous."

Alvita shot Sabina a dark look before brightening
"Maybe we don't have to. Old Niels was in a tavern the other night and a group of toughs asked him if he had work for them. Called themselves "adventurers." Turns out they were meeting some other old man, but Old Niels said they looked tough. I bet if we ask around, we can find ourselves some "adventurers" who'd be willing to find the muskets for a fraction of what we offered the Latronis. They'd be landlubbers from Phaoumn - there's no way they could have heard of the original offer."

Alvita grinned in an unsettling fashion.
"Get Mensarius Octavius and find out what our coffers can stand. Then have the men start spreading the word that we're looking for someone to do a... "quest" for us - say we'll pay well. We'll put Old Niels in that tavern he likes - the Prancing Pony, I think. If he can find a tough group, we can sail into Goblin territory and send them ashore in a longboat. Wait a week - if they don't come back, we can find someone else."

Alvita reached over and took the bottle from the stunned Sabina, helping herself to a hearty swig.
"We can try in Goliath territory next - I hear they're tough. We have months until the Dinumeratio Aurum; if this pays off, all the shipments of fancy knives in the world cannot compare to the profit we'd reap."

Sabina stood automatically to fetch Octavius, her mind fixed on one thought

This cannot end well

It was well that she did not voice her objection.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES - Alvita's plot hook is a freebie for the DM if he wants it. Otherwise, consider Alvita as an independent agent - I will not call any of her actions for the foreseeable future.

Commerce: Continued Weapons-for-Metal Trade with Shadar Kai + Secret
Military: Equites hire mercenaries and adventurers to guard their ships
Political: Delegation of Equite Patriarchs and Matriarchs petition the Deva for aid in ending the Goblin threat (will PM)
Religion: Secret

Commerce Secret (DM Only)
Otacustes Agent carries a message on a return ship to the Devic Empire, to be delivered via secret channels to Quaestor Shadar (the Omni bureau chief in charge of Shadar-Kai affairs).

Actual message will be PM'd if the ship arrives successfully.

Religion Secret (DM Only)
An Ordo Libertas cell in Ardora (Deva-Elf Trade City) will attempt to send communication upstream via Elven Trader. I'll PM this one too.

[Halaster]

The priests were chanting loudly in the shadow-filled hall of the Temple of Her Glory. They were frantic to complete the ritual successfully, for His Majesty was in attendance. The Eladrin king's face was like a statue, unmoved, only his eyes followed the procession of the priests. The ritual approached its climax, the covers of the deep shaft directly in front of the statue of Earth were flung open, and the Orog "ambassador" was led in. A smile spread on His Majesty's face, and the priests, relieved by the sign of approval, continued with renewed vigor. The Orog, whose naked body was painted with symbols of Earth and who wore around his neck a flawless gem the size of a fist that the priests had scoured all the Eladrin realms for, was led to the shaft. The incantations reached a noisy climax, then suddenly broke off, and all that could be heard was the "ambassador's" scream.
-----------
Ashim could not help but grin as Lieutenant Rashal stomped his foot and cursed.
Those bloody fools. We were just making some headway here and now all our best men are sent north and I am left with these wet-behind-the-ears scum!
Ashim cleared his throat and his superior turned around
Sergeant Ashim, what is it?
Saluting, Ashim wordlessly handed Rashal the list of men he was taking north to fight the Orogs. The officer stared at it for a moment, then sighed and threw it on the table. For a second, Ashim was almost sorry for him. But the memory of his exploits in the Goliath mountains and the loss of two fingers on his left hand made that feeling vanish very quickly.
Well, Sir, he said. The best of luck to you then. As he left the tent, he laughed. Whatever came next, could not be worse than this. And on the march north he would stop at his house and see his wife. Nothing else mattered now.
___________________
Military: With the Goliath threat stopped, the southern armies hold their positions, yielding up their more experienced forces to reinforce the northern borders, while the green recruits bolster the south
commerce: Send merchants down the river to improve our trading presence among the Shadar-Kai, in order to make some money
political: Send agents to the Tieflings to help bring down key Guild members. Those that fall into Eladrin hands are brought to our lands to be kept in reserve for later use
religion: A flawless gem is sought for in the realm, and, once found, is sacrificed to Earth in the above mentioned manner

[AgentPaper]

Outside the Eladrin Capital

Gerlinde didn't know how long she had been running. The sky was beginning to darken, but still she ran, afraid to stop, unable to look back, unwilling to think of what had happened to Ansgar. The eladrin -- they shot arrows at them before they could even open their mouths, not even asking them why they were there. How could such barbarians build such beautiful architecture? Why did Earth let their blasphemy stand?!

And what they did to Ansgar...no! Can't think of that...unthinkable. Gerlinde only hoped that he would appear before the gates of Valhalla as the warrior he was, and not...what he was just before he died. And if not...may sea have mercy on his soul.
-----------------------------
Military: Continue repelling eladrin in the south.
Commerce: Default.
Political: Nariscii leaders ask the Treveri for aid against eladrin.
Religion: Continue investigating rogue tribe, and especially the gnomes who were involved, if possible.

[Anonomuss]

Shadar-Kai

Illic walked through the city, pleased that the fleet was almost at readiness. The reply of the Earth Goddess had been troubling, and while the protection on the coasts was helpful, it was less than they would need if all was to continue as planned. The temple, however, was well on its way to being ready, as the plans had been drawn and labour hired.

The streets were characteristically quiet as Illic slipped back into the shadows once again, and out of sight and mind.

~~~~~~~~~~
Resource Allocation
Military-Help with the construction of the new Temple to the Earth Goddess on the coast, and the continuance of the construction of the new fleet.
Commerce-Mine metal for the Guns-for-Metal-Trade with the Humans
Religion-Build new temple to the Earth Goddess.
Political-Covert Operations

[Mauril Everleaf]

Tieflings
The Archmage sits at his desk pouring over various pieces of parchment, some maps, some writs, some rituals. He was planning out his new regime, but he was anxiously awaiting the return of his most recent set of spies.

A young bard slowly and very cautiously enters the room. "Your Eminence? I have news." The Archmage flicked his red eyes upwards slightly quicker than he raised his head.

"Yes?" he asked with a mixture of impatience and expectation.

"It is not good, sir. This group was no more successful than the last two. They were able to make it slightly further into the Guild, but they did not make it out, so whatever they learned is now lost." Before the Archmage could let the anger in his eyes become words, the bard chimed in, "...but with the aid of the merchants, the Warlord and the Eladrin, our liberation of the people is beyond assured."

"My dear, you should know that nothing, not even the magic we study so closely, is assured. But your news does not distress me. You may go." As he finished his sentence, he waved her out and returned to his papers.

------

"By the goddess, I wish this feud would end soon. I tire of the pageantry and posturing necessary to maintain our society. A necessary evil, but an evil nonetheless." The Warlord was sitting in his tower, sharpening his sword. A squire, sitting not far from his master, nodded in agreement while he polished the Warlord's armor. "M'lord, it will be our day again soon."

"Aye. But I look forward not to that day. Pray, let us not haste it."
----------------------------
Religion: Some smaller temples have begun to respect the Archmage as their authority, and the Archmage goes to each to oversee the rites necessary to dedicate them "properly" to Earth.
Military: The Archmage sends emissaries and envoys to the Warlord to assure his support in the upcoming regime change.
Political: The Archmage prepares things for his eventual coronation, making sure to specifically prepare festivities for the people to celebrate their liberation.
Commerce: Merchants, now on board with the Archmage, send out caravans to acquire supplies to better accommodate the people and to prepare for the Coronation and Feast.

[Mauril Everleaf]

Phaounm
Aldrean was suited in his armor, astride his warhorse, and was marching his army towards Glaeriel. "I don't know what those monsters are, but they destroyed one of my cities, so they will taste my steel." His aide, riding next to him, noticed that Aldrean had said "my cities" but chose not to comment. "Move the men-at-arms towards the front to better guard our fusilie*. We cannot have our most expensive investment be killed before they can be utilized."

"Yessir," the aide replied crisply. He rode towards the line to carry out his general's orders.

--------------
Military: March one division of the army northward into Glaeriel, in an attempt to recapture it.
Politics: Send envoy to the Orogs to try to broker a new non-aggression pact and to barter for some horses.
Religion: Pray to Sky to protect them and give them wisdom as they march to war.
Commerce: Envoy sent to Humans to broker for more muskets, and possibly some cannon for their ships.

[Virgo]

Devic Empire

The Imperial Palace in Aesperis is a stunning but understated structure; built entirely out of an opalescent, white stone, its spires and arches seem to radiate their own soft light.

As the human delegation enters, Devic guards search them gently and almost apologetically for weapons or spell components before they are conveyed through halls and stairways of the glowing stone, winding closer to the heart of the palace, and the political heart of the Empire.

----

The throne room itself is a huge, vaulted chamber, the ceiling painted with elaborate murals that took the finest Devic artists entire Human generations to complete. It shows the three gods in all their glory, and great Devas of the past. In the arched area above the dais, on which two thrones sit, two beautiful Deva are depicted hand-in-hand, looking across the chamber. Although only one throne was occupied at the moment, the flesh-and-blood counterpart of the queen reclined gracefully beneath the huge mural of her countenance, sipping some elf wine that had come from the forest recently. As the doors at the other end of the hall swung open, she set her finely crafted glass goblet down with a clink that echoed through the silent room. She knew, of course, that the Human delegation was approaching, and what they wanted, but it was well to observe certain rituals between the monarch and the governed.

"My Imperial Majesty, a delegation of the Equite Patriarchs and Matriarchs wait upon your pleasure and request of you a boon." The herald drops briefly to one knee and backs out of the room respectfully, closing the doors and leaving her and her guards and assorted other courtiers looking at the group of humans.

She smiles compassionately and moves her hand slightly, and musicians at the foot of the dais begin to quietly strum their instruments in song.

"Our favorite children," the Empress says, not seeming to raise her voice but nonetheless enveloping the room in her gentle, loving voice. "Tell us your purpose in coming here."

----
Political: Internal affairs (PM'd to Mauril)
Commerce: Maintain all the trading going on (Elves and Shadar-kai). Repurposing and forging Shadar-Kai metals into advanced melee and ranged weaponry.
Military: {Holding, subject to Oracle pleading the case}
Religion: Temples continue to be constructed. {Also holding the Religion action; may convert it into Military or Political}.

[Mauril Everleaf]

Keep in mind that there will be another update on Thursday and that in-game time is about two weeks.

Elves:
Your trade barges float down the Tevere to Ardora with little trouble. Some of the guards along the river eye the caravan suspiciously, some even ready weapons, but no aggression is acted upon. They make it safely into Ardora and are ushered (under guard) to the merchant district. Meanwhile, back in the forest, the priests chant and pray to Sky for guidance on what to do with the great oak and the darkness that is spreading through their forest. Their prayers seem to fall on deaf ears, as the priests and druids have received no word. Either Sky is not listening or he is unable to reply. Something may be interfering. Those not involved in the rituals are defending their cities from what seem to be crazed or possessed animals. The more vulnerable towns receive an influx of defenders, several just in time. Many elves were wounded or killed, but the towns were saved.

Humans:
The Human Equites, have little trouble sailing the Serpent Sea. Some rough weather, but nothing more than Sea being a little moody. They arrive in Cos'ndorcha carrying hulls full of arms, and prepare to leave with them full of rare and mystical metals. The arrive in port to see the skeleton of a massive temple under construction on the cliff. Another ship, carrying two groups of sellswords, lands just north of the great Shadar city. They have been given their instructions and sent towards the forest. The delegation to the Devas is sent and the meeting met (after nearly two weeks of red tape). ((I will leave it to Virgo to decide their reaction.))

Eladrin:
Large contingients of Eladrin troops move across the kingdom to stem the bleeding on the eastern front. Their forces are mighty and impressive, displayed in all their regalia. The high sheen of their polished steel could be seen for miles. Their presence is intimidating, if flashy. Meanwhile, less conspicuously, an army of merchants marches southward toward Cor'dnarcha to establish better trade relations with the Shadar-Kai. They are hopeful and optomistic, maybe too much so. Maybe not. Your agents sent to the Tieflings aid somewhat in their efforts, and several Tiefling thieves are captured. The agents did find something more important than Tiefling thieves: a blue diamond the size of a child's head. It was raw and uncut. With the aid of some of the temple's chief priests and mages, the gem was honed down to a fist-sized gem of unmatched quality. The captured Orog emissary is paraded into the temple and sacrificed to Earth. She may well be pleased.

Orogs:
The crops are growing well, and the people are getting excited about the Trademeet that is less than a month away. Many of the farthest tribes have already begun to pack caravans of goods to head to the traditional meeting place. In the south, things are no less exciting. Battles are pitched and bloody. The Orog warriors fight with tenacity that the Eladrin simply cannot match. But what the Eladrin lack in brute strength, they make up for with wizardry. The battles are often bloody as the Nariscii march furuther into disputed territory. The Treveri, seeing the victories of the Nariscii, agree to send a legion of their spears to wage war on the evil Eladrin. Their troops should reach the front within the fortnight. The rogue tribe holds that the Gnomish caravans desecrated their holiest shrine, destroying their sacred markers. They claim to have the right, nay the responsibility, to repel these "invaders". Your leaders find the burned out husks of several wagon trains. The tribe tells your envoys that they needn't explore it any further; they have things with the Gnomes "handled".

Shadar-Kai:
The new fleet, an upgrade from the previous design, is taking shape and will be seaworthy in a matter of days. The Temple to Earth is shaping up nicely as well. Designed in the manner that all Shadar buildings are, the ceilings are tall, and the stone is dark. Their are three above ground floors, surrounding a central shaft which dropped several stories into the earth. It will take a month or more to finalize the structure and the interior should be finished within a season after that. The Shadar miners are hard at work. They work tirelessly underground in the Cavern extracting the ores that that other cultures seem to prize so much. But mining Mithril and Adamantine is much easier than refining it. Shadar-Kai alchemists work through many candles refining the ore into workable metals. They will fetch an excellent price at the market. ((Note: You will no longer be required to mention working on the Temple. It will be assumed to be continued. I'll update the progress and let you know when it is finished.))

Devas:
The meeting with the Humans was cordial and had all the airs of civility and circumstance fitting a meeting of its kind. ((Holding results until after the conversation actually happens.)) The trade down Tevere is monitored and regulated to the satisfaction of the Ministry of Commerce*. No controband or fugitives were found in the caravans, and the Elves made no trouble in the markets and both people made out well in the trades. Even better than the trades is the progress the builders are making on the temples. Their towers are reaching well into the sky and their marble shines in the sun. For them to become proper temples worthy of Sky, a season or more will be spent constructing, furnishing and properly gilding them. ((Same note on temples as for the Shadar-Kai.))

Tieflings:
The temples are properly consecrated and many new priests are ordained. It is almost an entirely new order of priests in the temples. The Warlord, recognizing that this age of his people is at a season of magic, offers the compulsory aid to the Archmage. His army will answer to the Warlord, and the Warlord will be at the command of the Archmage. The Guild Master, seeing his imminent defeat, prepares his guild to go underground again. In the streets, the people are more upbeat than the leaders, and are celebrating the new regime. Feasts and festivals are being held and they are chanting "Spoda! Spoda!" which is the Infernal term for the Archmage.

Phaounm:
The division of troops arrives at Glaeriel and find it entirely deserted. Their are no Phaounm, not even bodies, and the invaders have left with little trace. There was left, it seems intentionally, a single spear in the center of the destroyed village. The Orog envoy, which left around the same time as the army, has made it to the Orog territory and proceeds with caution towards one of the established cities. A ship carrying three Phaounm, two men and a woman, arrive at Deominia hoping to begin negotiations with the Human arms dealers.

Note to all players:
Any actions that have not been addressed here should have their results PM'd to you. If you did not receive a result for an action, please let me know.

[Xondoure]

The Traders

The docks are full of the bustling trade, as elven wine is here to get shipped all across the country. The rafts now unloaded become a stage for the elves to perform the ancient hymns of the creation of the world, and sing in the strange tones that seem to compulse you to dance like the wind and sing, adding your movement to the ocean of sound. The day passes, and the Deva step onto the rafts, and give the signal to return to the forest, which by now, the elves are more than willing to do so.

Do not read unless you are mauril or oracle_hunter
Message recieved, to be contemplated next turn, when the council hears the news, and replied to on the next trading rafts.

Elven Forest

The Lord Istarel, looks out over the council. The lords seated on the east side, the druids and high priests standing to the north, the scholars and sages to the west, and those that could spare leaving there homes in this dark time seated on the south side.
"My friends, we have sought the aid of the stars, and he has been deaf to our prayers, the druids can feel the disturbance of the forest, they can feel it residing under this great city, but they cannot feel the cure to this terrible anger. Our soldiers are pushing to save our lives, not from the Deva, or Locura, but the beasts of our own homeland. I see before, me, a shaken, and terrified people. I hope to see before me once again, the proud faces of the free people! Here is my plan, that you may all know the lengths to which we are stretched, and what is yet possible. In the time of the creation of the Lealagu, the trees entrusted with its growth were made accessible, down to the last root, by the aid of a tunnel system, known as the earth lights. This dungeon below the ground, can now be used to search the depths of our land, from the safety of the tree that protects us from the madness. I suggest we assemble an elite group to enter these tunnels, but first, we will let the lake waters flow into the earth lights, if only a trickle, to ensure the safety of that group were they to get lost, all they would need do is follow the water flow up to the surface.
The council debates this point, as wizards, clerics, soldiers, and even spies step up to be allowed into this elite group, finally the team stands before the council. "So we are in agreement then?"
The council nods, looking at Istarel with a feeling of pride and relief.
"Is there any more to your ideas my friend?" Istarel's hands rise into the air asking for silence. "There is one more objective that may strengthen our knowledge of the forest's distress as well as find out if it is not just our land that is in pain. Around a decade ago, I acquired a very important book, that was written by a traveling sage on the other races of Wilwarren. Tell me my friends, have you ever heard of the Gnomes? You see, they live in the ancient forests as we do..."

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

military: Retain border protection around cities, protect evacuation, hire new recruits.
political: Evacuation of small towns, to focus protection around the 8 cities, druidic council, Etruon retains spies.
religious: Druids open the entrance to the earth lights, and set a small stream to flow into the tunnels.
commerce: traders return bringing goods, and certain news to the Lady.
other: assemble adventuring party to venture into the earth lights, assemble a druidic unit to seek the knowledge of the Gnomes, start both groups on their journey.

[Virgo]

Devic Empire

Her Majesty The Empress listens to the flowery words of Florentius Tagaris impassively, tilting her head slightly. He was well-spoken and outwardly polite, certainly, but he was... smooth. Almost too practiced, and his presentation reeked of artifice and pomp. It seemed to her understated sensibilities that he was mocking the ritual of royal audience, and although it was indeed a ritual, rituals are pillars of power and stability.

Or perhaps she was being too harsh. She was used to interacting with the Emperor and other Devas, after all, and they comported themselves differently than these flighty children of theirs. She considered silently, running a delicate violet finger around the rim of her glass goblet before speaking.

"It may interest you to know that the name 'The Serpent Sea' was not our idea. Rather, our imperial cartographers named it, and the name stuck before they ever returned to the capital. We are not so frail that our vanities force us to rename that which we do not like, but we remain uneasy with the moniker."
She reclines against a pillow and continues softly.
"Recall that in the Devic Verses it is said that serpents are base and vile creatures, composed of the stuff of the Earth and forever slithering across the ground. They are incapable of looking upwards to our glorious patron the Sky, and as such they are forced to flatter and circumlocute, denied the blessings of clarity and truth."

She steeples her fingers and surveys the delegation.
"We are pleased by your request, and by your presence here. It is our desire to make our children- all our children- safe and happy. As such, we decree that you shall have the military support you request." She smiles at them all, not chastening but fondly warning, like a mother who reminds her young child that the stove is hot.

"But beware the nature of the seas you sail, my fine Equites; it is an ill thing to take too much of the serpent into oneself. In our court, and in your lives, we prefer respect over obsequies, and sincerity over artifice." She inclines her head. "May the Sky grants its many blessings to you on your dangerous journeys. Your dutiful service, as ever, has our thanks."

----

Military: Devic commanders speak with the humans and bring their forces to bear, maintaining oversight while allowing the human traders a great deal of input in the strategic process. Oracle, you can command them as you like; until the Devas decide otherwise, they are essentially your army and navy unit. The Devic commanders, of course, are still in charge and will be corresponding with the capital, but it's more convenient if you just take them under your control.

Political: Internal affairs actions. {Once Mauril gets back to me about something.}

Religious: The temples in the merchant districts of Phaounm cities start to reach out into the communities outside just their districts, providing social services to the downtrodden and the needy like food and a place to sleep in the name of the Devic Empire and the Sky.

Commerce: The Devas authorize a sale of the usual type of weaponry to the Phaounm merchants, but request that in order to strengthen their diplomatic relationship (and as a condition of sending large amounts of arms to a state immediately next to them), the Phaounm city-states purchase agricultural products from Imperial lands as well. It is the concern of the Imperial Authority, the ambassadors are informed, that the political instability characteristic of the many city-states could lead to a great deal of suffering if the populace remains dependent on domestic food produced at the whim of the ever-shifting Phaounm political landscape. The Empire offers to use its significant resources and farmable land to produce food capable of sustaining the Phaounm states at only a slightly higher price than they pay domestically.

[Oracle_Hunter]

Humanity

With the great gates of the Eternal Castle swinging shut behind them, the Equite Delegation felt at liberty to speak.

"Florentius, you are a total ponce"

The youthful rake bristled at Apollo's rebuke and snapped back

"I would have liked to have seen you do as well, you thick-skulled brute! Her Majesty is a creature of divine countenance; addressing her like a tavern wench would have gotten you thrown out on your ear."

Florentius sniffed disdainfully

"Her Majesty was pleased by my courtly manner - we got what we needed, did we not?"

"She was mocking you, you know."

Florentius turned to stare at Diana Zarides, but she was already well ahead of the group; her platinum hair streaming behind her, caught in a summer breeze.

* * *

"Come on men! If you were any slower, I'd have thought you were dwarves!

Signifer Cicero Leocor sighed as he watched his Decanus berate a particularly slow-moving legionnaire.

"Decanus, let the man be."

Decanus Brutus Ferox stopped mid-tirade and glowered at the legionnaire. As soon as Brutus turned to face his commanding officer, the tardy legionnaire vanished with an alacrity reminiscent of a frightened deer.

"Sir, we must be at sea before nightfall - who knows when those flighty Deva might decide to assign a Duplicarius to lead the ground forces instead of you."

Cicero shook his head slowly

"Brutus, you know as well as I that I serve at the pleasure of Optio Lanaduvia and that Commissar Zindau will be accompanying us on our mission. I lead the Legion because Optio Lanaduvia has faith that I will be able to do so without greater oversight. Please try to keep a Devic demeanor about you while on this mission.

Brutus growled but, out of deference to the Blood Bond between Clan Leocor and Clan Ferox and his friendship with Cicero, he did not voice his opinion of their "gentle masters."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Political: [reserved for later]
Commerce: Maintain Shadar-Kai Weapon-Metal Trade; Equester Katrares enters into practical negotiations with the Phaoumn regarding the Weapon/Produce-Gold Trade (authorized by Deva)
Military: Legion & Navy assemble and are deployed to "goblin zone." Navy lands the Legion to the west of the forest and then sets up a blockade around the river mouth. (Mauril, you should probably give me more details about the actual location of the "goblin zone.")
Religion: Secret

Religion Action (DM Only)
Ordo Libertas agents try to locate the missing messenger-priest and continue with preparations for "The Talks"

[Halaster]

The battlefield shook with a mighty tremor as a blazing ball of fire devoured a large group of advancing Orog. Ashim carefully looked over his shield. The field was clear, but their reinforcements were not far behind. He looked to the wizard hovering over the field and saluted him.
How are your reserves, sir?, he called out.
The mage just shook his head and took off southwestward. Ashim turned around to his soldiers.
Blast. That was about the only chance we had to hold this position. Alright, men, we fall back. Seeing the surprise and fear on their faces, he shrugged. I know the standing orders. No retreat, on pain of death. But they need us. Chances are they'll send us back, but that gives us a few days. Looking at the vanishing shape of the wizard in the sky he added: And them too.
-------------------------
The Archmage nervously cleared his throat. The king cast him an icy stare.
I heard you, Archmage. Very well, you have my permission. Gather all your wizards. But be warned. If you fail, I will be very displeased. You might live quite a while. The Archmage smiled a rather forced smile and retreated.
___________________
Politics: Try to get the Dwarves to raid the Orog somewhat harder, so that they might begin to worry about their hinterland
Commerce: Try to get gnomish support for the mercantile activities in Cor'dnarcha, by giving them a share
Military: DM only: The northern armies fall back, in a demoralisation that isn't even faked. But as they do so, they are chanelled south towards Tamar and north towards Hadras, leaving a gap in the middle, with concentrated forces on both sides, which will dig in around those cities, easy to outflank and cut off from the capital. When the Orog proceed to use the gap to do just that, they will, to their surprise, meet the Archmage's task force of skilled wizards who will unload all they have into their massed formations, then teleport away.
Religion: Preach to the populace about the glory of the kingdom and the great plans of Earth for our people, to gather money for a future project.

[Sea]

Sea blasted his mighty breath at the little fleet of ships. This was actually a lot of fun, no matter what the crews did, they were going where Sea wanted them to go. It was, after all, HIS ocean.

Something else tickled Sea's thoughts. At first, he ignored it, content to toy with the tiny ships on the rolling ocean. But it WAS bothering him.

Hmm. Prayers from the faithful. Fine, fine - Sea dispatched one of his aspects to deal with the problem. Sea chuckled. He couldn't wait to see what the Orog did. At least it would be amusing.

There, the ships were right about where they were supposed to be. They would find the island and make repairs from his storms, and after that ... well, Sea could hardly be held responsible for whatever the mortals did next, could he?

[AgentPaper]

(Too tired for RP. I'll have it up tomorrowish :smalltongue: )

----------------------------------------
Military: Continue force buildup in the south, other tribes train and hold tournaments to select the greatest warriors who will journey to trademeet to test their skill.
Political: Chief Shaman Aurel orders the chieftan of the rogue tribe to halt his aggression towards the gnomes immediately, until the gnomes get a chance to explain themselves, then sends Isaak and Ingolf to the gnomes, requesting a meeting between Aurel and a gnomish representative.
Religion: Begin construction of three new religious structures at the Trademeet grounds: A shrine to Earth, at the gate to the city, a shrine to Sea, overlooking the docks, and a temple to Sky as part of a new, larger arena.
Commerce: Default

[Anonomuss]

Shadar-kai

Illic Stood atop the walls of the City and stared out at the world beyond. In his youth he had wanted to see it all, and learn everything that there was to learn about the world. First, he had decided, he needed to know everything about the world he lived in. That was when he had first met the queen, and she had satisfied all his curiosity about the world, or at least sated his interests for the moment.

He could see the Eladrin envoys approaching. He often wondered about them. He would have to see what they wanted.

The sounds of the builders at the docks, and by the quays snapped him out of his thoughts. The sound of hammer on wood, and the sounds of stone on stone played as a chorus that reminded him of the world. Hard often, full of violence, but that if you stuck it out, became something wonderful. The world would have to wait, he decided, as he signaled to the guards and stepped back down into the city. The guard above stood ready, and as resplendent as guards manning the shield of darkness could.

~~~~~~~~

Actions
Commerce-Continue mining for Metals to trade with the Devic empire, and begin negotiations with the Eladrin.
Military-Internal Actions
Political-Covert Operations
Religion-A representative of the Queen is set to lead the people of the City in prayer to Sea, Sky and Earth. Thanking them for the creation of the world, and wishing that they show all their subjects mercy, especially in such an age of change.

[Mauril Everleaf]

Phaounm
Aldrean and his troops search the village for any clues as to what or who had wrought such devastation. Aldrean, as they continue to search and find nothing, becomes increasingly enraged. "How can there be nothing?! An entire village wiped clean and all we have is a single spear?! And the spear they wanted us to find! Mark my words. They will pay. When I find out who did this to my people, I will have his head on that spear!" Aldrean was nearly roaring at this point. As he turned to march back to his horse, to call off the search, he sees five figures entering the town.

"I'm telling you that this is a bad idea."
"Of course it's a bad idea. What else do people hire us for?"
"Good point."

An Eladrin, wearing dark robes over a leather cuirass, is chatting with a Dwarf covered in mail and carrying a spear. Behind them follows a female Gnome in robes, a Shadar-Kai in black plate mail and a Halfling who seems to be barely present. The Eladrin has a Golaith on what seems to be a leash. The company looks up from their conversation to see an entire Phaounmic division staring back at them.

"Oop..."
----------------

Military: Aldrean searches the village to find any clue of who attacked; arrest and interrogate the adventuring party
Political: The envoy sent to the Orogs proceeds across the plains towards the capitol
Religious: The priests of Sky implore him to reveal the cause of their plight in the north
Commerce: Since Gnomish merchant caravans have no arrived in many weeks, patrols are sent down the trade routes to determine the cause

[Mauril Everleaf]

Tieflings
Their is much pomp and circumstance in a coronation of an Archmage. It does not happen often and thus is a much heralded event. The streets are lined with cheering Tieflings. They are chanting Spoda! Spoda! in honor of their new leader, their liberator. The Archmage is just soaking it all in as he is carried down the streets on horseback. He whispers to himself, "Why didn't I do this years ago?" He waved at his new subjects as they sang his praises.

Meanwhile, the Warlord is sitting in his tower, watching the parade below. "How they so quickly forget. Do they not remember merely a century ago chanting and singing the same praises to the Guild Master? I will be glad for the day that I can return home.

"The fool thinks he has beaten me. But the Guild is not so easily taken." The Guild Master, not watching the parade, is beneath his guildhall arranging for its move. He is also sending some of his most trusted thieves and spies out of the city to establish more contacts and to quell "rumors" of him being dethroned.

-------------------
Military: A new army must be raised, an army loyal to the Archmage.
Political: Send emissaries to all the surrounding factions (Shadar-Kai, Eladrin, Orog and Gnome) to work relations and treaties with the new government.
Commerce: Tiefling merchants are deployed to the Shadar-Kai hoping to broker trade for precious gems.
Religion: Internal affairs

[Mauril Everleaf]

Elves:
The cities and villages are being seiged, for lack of a better term, by the beasts of the forest. Large and small, predatory or passive, it does not matter. All seem to have been driven mad and are assaulting the cities. The larger walled cities are holding quite easily, and the influx of troops is making the defense of the smaller villages more viable. Many of the villagers had constructed pallisades around their homes and the village proper. These defenses should hold against the current level of attack, but they know that should anything more intelligent than these beasts should attack, the villages will not hold. A good portion of the citizens are willing to evacuate the villages and seek the security of the larger cities. Some, however, refuse to leave their homes, which is their right to do. Your army does what it can to help shore up the meager defenses and moves on guarding the evacuees. Meanwhile, deep in the forest, the druids dance, sing and chant while they perform the necessary ritual to open up the earth lights and divert a forest stream into it. The ground opens more easily than your druids expected but they believe it to be the first good omen of this entire ordeal. The traders, having been gone nearly three weeks, return to to Elven lands a bit aghast. Their trip was profitable, in several ways. The arrival of their barges begins the assembling of a small conclave of druids to head to the west. They will journey southward with the next merchant float. The adventuring party that was assembled has geared up and made the necessary sacrifices to begin their journey. They enter the tunnel and begin their quest.

Devas:
After a week or more of paperwork, everything is set for the shift in military organization. Several divisions have been placed on "caravan detail", as they have begun to refer to it. The temples in your merchant districts are doing well, taking in many sacrifices and offerings and reaching out to many of the beggars that take up residence around the stalls. The faraway temples are doing less well. The Phaounm, naturally wary of outsiders, are taking some of the aid offered, but do so suspiciously. There is talk among the people that the Devas are planning something sinister, some believing that an invasion is soon to come. The weapons trade is rather successful, as the Phaounm seem to be building up a larger military, but some of the smaller city-states are hesitant to purchase Devic foodstuffs. Sharinoius and D'Larille, the two largest city-states in the Phaounm nation, gladly agree as they are struggling to feed their large populations. The temples are approaching external completion. Another few weeks and their stones will be prepared for adornment and their interiors for ornamentation. You do, however, receive a little bit of troubling news: the pirates off your coast are stirring.

Humans:
The Shadar merchants are glad to see their ore turned into fine tools and weapons. They are less glad at the prices. You have not changed them, but they seem to have less ore to trade but still ask for the usual amount of weapons. After days of negotiation, a new price is arranged, but neither party is truly satisfied with it. Your negotiations with Sharinoius and D'Larille are much more satisfactory. The two largest city-states agree, nearly to the letter, with the terms Katrares presents. The lesser city-states agree (with varying modulations) after some time but your merchant-ambassadors receive glares from the peasantfolk in the cities. The Navy, with it's compliment of troops, sets sail for the reported "goblin zone". They sail as directly as they can but it will still take them another week or tenday to arrive. Their orders are set and they should begin their operations as soon as they arrive.

Eladrin:
The envoy sent to the dwarves was met with no response. It seems that the dwarves have begun their semi-annual kilpailu taistella. The dwarves have cut themselves off from outside affairs for an entire month to stage combats between tribes and warriors to determine who was greatest among them. When their ritualized war ends, they will return to other affairs. The Gnomes, on the other hand, are very willing to engage in talks. After some quick talk and lots of duplicity, the Eladrin envoy is able to come to an agreement with the Gnomes that he believes is advantageous to the Eladrin. Were he not one of your wisest ambassadors, you would not be able to trust that this was the case. However, things seem to be in order and the Gnomes will begin to sell Eladrin goods in Cor'dnarcha within the month. Your priests and heralds walk the streets proclaiming the glory of the Earth and of the great victory the Eladrin have had over the savage Goliaths. (No mention is made of the struggle with the Orogs.) They praise the king and his shining stone tower. The priests exhort the people to give more to the temples all the while. The citizens in the west, knowing the victory over the Goliaths, flock to the temples and donate large sums of money. However, the further east you go, the less swayed the people are. Some have heard rumors of the eastern front, and some have seen it themselves. Many still go to the temples and give offerings, but they are far less generous than those in the west. The reinforcements have arrived on the eastern front, but it almost seems to be too little, too late. In strategic (and sometimes not so strategic) retreats, the Orog are slowly moving further into Eladrin territory.

Orogs:
The Nariscii and the Treveri have an extraordinary presence in the southern plains and their army is making great strides in the war with the Eladrin. Their army is sweeping across the plains on their warhorses, herding more than killing, it seems. Neither side is losing many troops, but the Orogs are marching daily further into disputed territory. Back in Orog lands, Chief Shaman Aurel meets with Mangren, the chief of the rogue tribe. Mangren is still enraged with the gnomes but agrees to the demands of the Chief Shaman and calls off attacks but closes his borders to any outsiders. They will not be killed, but they will be "escorted" out of his lands until further notice. Isaak and Ingolf leave with a small detail of cavalry and ride towards the Gnome forest to meet with them. They carry with them a parchment requesting a meeting between their Chief Shaman and a representative of the Gnome Council. They ride solemnly, knowing that they cannot afford war with another people. In the north, the people are preparing for the upcoming Trademeet with much excitement. A great tabernacle is erected at the city gate, a shrine to Earth, welcoming the dwarves who arrived on foot. It also houses the money-changers. In the docks, a large wooden temple is being constructed in honor of Sea and for the brave seafarers who have arrived in peace. The temple to Sky, constructed adjacent to the arena grounds, it a collossal yurt, with the very top open to the sky. By the time the Trademeet is met, all things will be prepared.

Shadar-Kai:
Your miners have been pulling less and less of the exotic metals from the ground lately. The current mines in the Cavern seem to be running out of ore. New ones are beginning, but it till take some time to bring things back to their previous levels without some fortunate discovery. Your merchants are able to haggle the price of arms down slightly, but not sufficiently. The trade was poor this time, but not due to any preventable cause. The representative of the Queen stands on a balcony of the high tower of the Surface Palace. She leads the people in a public prayer to Earth, Sky and Sea. The people gladly and openly pray to Earth, their mother, but are more reluctant to offer praise or ask help of the other gods, Sky especially. The ceremony ends and the people disperse, slightly confused. Many are asking why they were forced to pray to Sky and Sea and some were offended that they were asked to. Had not Earth been their matron? The people wait to see how the gods react. The temple to Earth on the cliff is completed on the outside and the interior work has begun. Many precious metals - gold, silver, mithril and adamantine - are planned for the adornment of the interior.

Secret actions should have their results PM'd momentarily.

Note: From here onward the Phaounm and Tiefling factions will be entirely roleplayed. They will no longer spend actions, unless a player comes to take up their mantle.

[Xondoure]

Elven Forest

Istarel sits at his temporary palace in the heart of the forest, for with so much turmoil, the council may be summoned at a moments notice. Sipping the cool red wine, he gazes at the stars. "I know your there Darion, do not be worried by my demeanor, speak your mind."
Darion smiles as he steps out of the doorway and on to the outward branches of the elm. "Very well my friend, I believe you know why I am here."
"You wish to know why I am advocating a trip to the Gnomish lands. Well you see, according to the records they are a race that has delved deep into the secrets of the universe. With such a deep understanding, I am sure that together we can find a solution."
Darion's laugh fills the trees with his booming voice, "But that is just what you told the council, I know you have another reason Ianthir."
Istarel smiled,"I knew you wouldn't let that slip by. The problem lies in our plans, we have worked for three hundred years to begin our liberation from the chains of the forest, and now that our home has become hostile, the need is even more great. I cannot allow our people to vanish into the woods forever, but the council would never agree to send off a group of the elite with such turmoil surrounding us. So I have arranged it such that they may leave without having to battle the council. Do not misunderstand, you see, I truly believe the Gnomes may supply us with a solution, It is just that if we can establish relations with the Gnomes, we may be able to use the Lealagu trees to start a flow to the other lands."
"Say no more, I will not betray your trust."
"Of course not, the thought never even crossed my mind, brother."

Soon, the sound of pounding footsteps reach them moments before the page bursts through the door, "Sir, the lords are requested to meet at the Lady Lisseln's chambers imediatley! something has come up that may turn our luck!"
The lords made there way to the willow, conversing in hushed tones over the fate of the Bosquemal.
Mauril only, and gods if they so chooseplease send via pm to Oracle. (this way no one even knows that it is directed at you both) The lords of the elven lands gather with the high priest Darion at the heart of a willow that is the temporary home of the Lady Lisseln herself. A message from the Human lands had reached there agent among the traders. As the lords wispered among themselves, the night soon paled to dawn, leaving only a vague blur that mounted to the ultimate conclusion. As the druids departed with the next trade envoy, one of their number would leave as their ambassador to the human rebels, in hopes that humanity could once again work as one.

The druids will move out with the traders, then continue downstream in the guise of birds leaving one of there members behind to act as an ambassador to the Humans, once they reach the coast they will head west into Phaounm territory, beginning their journey to the gnomish lands.

As soon as the traders returned, the oils and woods from Istarel had been shipped down to the river, and the traders filled their raft with the precious goods. Soon, another group of travelers appeared, each in long gray cloaks; the druids prepared for their departure to the far off forests of the Gnomes.

The small towns on the northern river have faced much danger in the past months. The towns will not remain safe for much longer, unless every able bodied Elf lifted a spear against the threat. Lord Anzion, the youngest Istarel lord, and son of Ianthir, gazed out into the dark mist. His men are greener than he, some have only seen thirty winters, some even less. Still, as he raised his voice over the recruits he knew that each was prepared to die to ensure the freedom of this land, for each had come of his own will. "I ask for your attention; while my father sits in council with the druids, it is our duty to protect the trees of our ancestors. We are the free people! Not even the hands of the gods can stem the force of freedom! As I stand before you, an equal, so too must our children stand a thousand winters from this day. With the pride to rise against the darkness, each, a star in the eternal night. Ignite your honor Elves, for the world begins to move again, and golden opportunities await us! This is our age, and we will not let the darkness bury itself in our hearts. Are you with me!" The roar of the free people echoes through the woods, ringing through time, unstoppable.

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

military: hold positions, finish evacuations, and recruit.
commerce: Send next trade envoy, this time with elven wood.
religion: Send off druids, continue songs and rituals to appease the forest.
political: private.

[AgentPaper]

Gerwulf watched as the bulk of the eladrin army scrambled over the bridge, many falling off or swimming to escape the orog's spears. A lone eladrin wizard turned and began casting a spell, no doubt hoping to cover the retreat of his companions. It might have worked, too, if an arrow hadn't sprouted from his neck just before he finished his gesturing.

"Good shot, Rikard! That point-ear would surely have sent a legion or warriors to Valhalla. I only wish I could see his face as he stands before the gates of the heavens and realizes his life has been wasted on flashy tricks."

"If only all of them would fall so easily, Gerwulf. That one was an apprentice, no doubt, whereas a master would have deflected the arrow with a wave of his hand. I wish I could know how they did that, though I suppose it would not do me any good where it matters."

"Hmph! Bad enough you waste your time practicing with those bows. Now you want to learn magic? I swear you Treveri spent too much time thinking about this world, and not enough preparing to enter Valhalla."

Rikard chuckles. "I would say the same for you and your horses, friend. I tell you what, we'll meet up in front of the gates and see who has wasted more time then."

"Hah! Fair enough, but let's make it a bit more interesting. Once we do, we find ourselves one of these eladrin fancy-hats, and whoever has wasted less time, gets to throw him head-first through the gates!"

Each man spits on his hand before shaking on the deal, laughing uproariously as they crossed the bridge to pursue the eladrin.

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

Military: Continue actions in the south.
Commerce: Default
Political: Shaman Aurel tries to find out why the rogue tribe hasn't been participating in the Trademeet while waiting for a response from the gnomes.
Religion: Finish preparations for the Trademeet, begin pre-tournament fights to decide which orog will compete in the grand tournament with the dwarves.

[Oracle_Hunter]

HUMANITY

Valaria Mucro, Latronis Nauta of the Navis Mucro Eos, shouted orders to her crew.

"Earth's Nipples! Pick up the pace, you laggards, or there won't be any pirate heads left to collect! You-!"

Valaria strode over to a Latronis that had been unwise enough to choose this moment to chat up a fishmonger's daughter. Without breaking stride she delivered a low kick to the back of his knee before backhanding him across the face - leaving him in a heap at her feet.

"Latronis Corvin, what in Sky's name do you think you are doing? Contrary to your personal opinion, my crew is not a matchmaking operation!"

Delivering a solid boot to the ribs, she rolled the unlucky man onto his stomach.

"Now pick up those bags and MOVE!"

Corvin skittered sideways over to the bags before getting to his feat. As soon as he had gotten the bags situated over his shoulders, Valaria delivered a resounding smack across his bottom with the flat of her sword - sending him stumbling a few paces. Without looking back he broke into a run; Valaria turned to where the wench had been standing, but she had wisely faded away. With a dissatisfied grunt, Valaria spat at the ground where the girl had been standing and turned to harry another tardy Latronis.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Political: Secret
Commerce: Maintain Shadar-Kai Weapons/Metal trade; Initiate Phaoumn Weapons & Food / Gold trade.
Military: Increased Latronis hunting of pirates along the shipping routes
Religion: Secret

Religion Secret (DM Only)
Prepare to receive a Guest in Ardora - including stirring up dissent among the Human population of Ardora in order to keep Devic authorities busy.

Political Secret (DM Only)
Octacusta (field agents) will sprinkle themselves among the outgoing caravans into Phaoumn to learn what they can about the Invaders. A veteran agent is going to Glaeriel personally to see what he can find out

[Virgo]

Devic Empire

{I'm rather tired and busy, so this section will be hopefully replaced with RP at some point}

----

Political: Internal affairs

Commerce: The ranking Devic Ambassadors continue to personally negotiate with the reluctant Phaounm states to try and convince them to shift the majority of their food consumption to Devic imports. Not only will this ideally stabilize some of the region and ensure that the Phaounm population remains well-fed, but it reduces the likelihood of any Phaounm state using their weaponry to attack the Empire.

Religion: The Empress and the Emperor personally pray to Sky for aid and support. {PM-tastic}

Military: The internal forces of the Empire develop stricter internal security policies, particularly on traffic between major cities.

[Mauril Everleaf]

Phaounm
Aldrean interrogated the Dwarf and his companions thoroughly. Some might say a little too thoroughly, but no Phaounm would blame him. These "adventurers" had knew what had happened to Glaeriel and they could keep it from happening again, as the taunting spear seemed to imply. An Eladrin wizard-noble had learned, through his divinations, of a relic that had appeared in Glaeriel and he had hired this troupe to go retrieve it for him. The relic was a small jade statue of Sea, rumored to been the center piece of an underwater temple. The temple was said to have been built by a people that have long been lost, possibly claimed by the sea. Aldrean scoffed at the notion. "A temple beneath the waves? Do you take me for a fool?" Secretly, however, he remembered the old wives tails that he had heard growing up, of fish-men who built cities under the waves. Aldrean hid this in his mind and threatened the Eladrin, the Dwarf and the rest of their comany with instant death should he ever find them again. They see his threat backed by several hundred spears, and wisely slink away, despite the grumbles of the Halfling who was promised that she could play in the ocean.

Before long, Aldrean pulls his aide aside and whispers to him, "Frery, do you remember the tales of your childhood? The stories your nurse-mother used to tell you of the olden days?"
"Yessir, I do. Is there a tale you were thinking of in particular?"
Absently, Aldrean responds, "Not really. Do have those adventurers followed. I have a feeling that they may lead us to an answer."
Frery pulls over a battle captain who assembles a squad to tail the adventurers while Aldrean stares at the cresting waves.


Tieflings
"Ah. What a beautiful day this is. I am king, the people love me and things are shaping up nicely for my newest plans." The Archmage is musing to himself as he stares out through a window overlooking the largest of the Tiefling cities. He does not get to enjoy the view long when a young wizard enters the office bearing news. Your Eminence, I have word. The diamond that you had your men search for in the Guild Hall was not found. Either the Guild Master had it hidden elsewhere, or he has taken it with him. What would you have us do?" While the young Tiefling wizard was speaking, the Archmage turned from the window to face him. With each word, rage began to boil within the older Tiefling. "What should you do?!" he spewed. "You should find the damned thing! You should do what I have commanded you to do! Do you know how crucial that gem is to the success of our plans?! Of course not. If you did, you would have found it rather than waste time bringing me useless news! Now go before I become angry." The young wizard did not need to be told twice. He was grateful to have survived the fire that he saw within the Archmage's blood red eyes.

On the other side of the city, the Warlord was receiving his orders from his new master. "It's always the same. Shake down the remaining pockets of loyalists to the Guild Master and keep the borders safe. Why does he even bother sending a courier? I guess we all have our parts to play, and that errand boy is no different. Xandros, prepare the sheriffs and the border guards for their duties. Let's make this quick. I am getting a feeling that something is out of order."

[Mauril Everleaf]

Elves:
The trade rafts are restocked, piled high with timber older than the city they are carrying it to, and they are set afloat down the river. The merchants float alongside in smaller river boat, some of which contain draft lizards to pull the logs from the rafts to the market place. Roosted among the timber are many birds, seeming to serenade the merchants as they float downstream. The merchants seem to very much enjoy their companions who seem to scatter soon after the timber-barges leave the Elven forest. The merchants wish their feathered friends well and pull into port for inspection by the Devic customs agents. Back in the heart of the forest, the battles rage between Elf and beast. The smaller villages have been all but abandoned, and the Elves that stayed were not able to make their stands long, but they stood strong to the last man. Their heroism bolstered many of the youngest elves into joining the defense of their cities. The larger cities are able to hold, but many within the city pray that they need not defend themselves against the maddened creatures much longer. The Elves will defend themselves, but find no pleasure or pride in killing their fellow denizens of the forest. The people pray that the efforts of their leaders are soon successful. Their leaders are trying to do just that, appeal to and appease whatever force they need to in order to end this plague. The druids have discovered something about their great tree. It, through its anguished groans, able to reveal that it is being eaten from the inside by something. Your druids cannot make out what, but they are able to make out the word "chrysophylax".

Orogs:
As soon Gerwulf and Rikard's men crossed the bridge, their doom was sealed. The Eladrin were craftier than they had seemed. Their retreats were not the panicked flight of an outmatched force (outmatched though they were) but a set-up for an ambush. The western forces had arrived and laid a trap for the onrushing Orogs. Trapped in a bottleneck and lacking the high ground, the Orog legions were quickly and ruthlessly slaughtered. Gerwulf and Rikard were both subdued and taken captive, to be carried back to the capitol. Miles across the plains, Aurel sits down with Mangren to discuss his plans for the Trademeet. Mangren admitted that he had not even thought about the traditional event. He was focused on his people and their troubles with the Gnomes as well as several other trying issues. His excuses were legitimate, but were not outstanding issues. Aurel believes that if Mangren wanted to, he could have prepared for the Trademeet and is simply hiding behind convenient troubles to not deal with the Dwarves. The other clans, however, began their journeys towards the Trademeet grounds if they had not done so already. With many of the greatest warriors from the larger tribes away at war, many of the smaller tribes were excited at the improvement of their chances in the melee. Isaak and Ingolf arrived with their envoy and delivered their message to the Gnomish oligarch. He agrees to send a merchant ambassador, with his guard, to meet with Aurel and Mangren. The two Orogs with their cavalry lead the Gnome ambassador and his four bodyguards (two warriors, a mage and an archer) towards the Orgish village.

Humans:
Trade is booming for the Humans. The Mercators have opened heartier trade routes with the Phaounm, carrying wagon load after wagon load of grains and cheeses to the major Phaounmic cities. Many of the farmers, watching their replacements roll through the countryside, glare and grumble as the Humans pass through their towns, but no trouble is actually started. For all their distaste of it, the Phaounm know that it is a necessary evil. The trade with the Shadar-Kai is doing just as well. The new trade agreements are starting to slowly work more in the favor of the Equites, as the Shadar merchants are receiving pressure to purchase more weaponry and thus are forced to accept higher prices. The Latrones are able to keep the shipping lanes clear of most pirate activity. There are a few raids, sudden strikes that are low risk to the pirates, but none of them are overly successful. However, Valaria was able to capture one of the pirate vessels and interrogated some of the crew. She wasn't able to get much, but what she was able to extract from them disturbed her: the pirates were getting bolder, even talking of raiding the Devic mainland. The pirates spoke of guns and gold. This is news that the Devic commanders would surely want to hear of. The admiralty also would surely like to hear news of the expedition to the west to search out the raids on the shipping lanes purportedly by "goblins". So far, no news has returned.

Devas:
The negotiations with the Phaounm go rather well. The nobility and ruling classes seem to be on board with the Devic trade plans. They recognize that each city-state is not and cannot be self-sufficient and that the trade offered by the Devas can allow them to focus on more important issues than the tending of crops. The peasantry, however, is less pleased. The commonfolk prefer a more traditional society and do not like the meddling of outsiders in their affairs. Some refuse to eat the imported food, believing it to be somehow poisoned or hexed. More promising are than the attempts to "convert" the lower class are the efforts on the temples. The last stone is set on the smallest of the great temples and craftsmen quickly set to work carving statues and reliefs all about the majestic structure. Gold and silver are being brought in and refined to make ceremonial bowls and altars. Sky should be pleased by this impressive show of devotion. The citizens of the great cities marvel at the wonder of these cathedrals, but their splendor cannot completely mask the increased enforcement in the empire. The southern and border cities feel the tightening the most. Many criminals who had previously been ignored or unnoticed are being carted off to prisons, especially among the Halfling populations. Intra-city traffic is being increasingly monitored as well. While many of the merchants complain about the extra time spent at checkpoints, all appreciate the decreased number of bandits on the roads.

((As there will not be an official update this Thursday, players who did not get a chance to post this weekend still may do so. I'm looking at you VirOath, Halaster and Anonomuss.:smallwink:))

[Xondoure]

Elven Forest
The druids gather round the great oak. Looking on with great sadness at the heart of the wood. "It seems that the Lealagu has become necessary for the creatures of the wood. No longer, are we the only ones affected by the Earth Godesses curse." Slowly the Elves approached the tree, their tears mixing with the Lealagu as it poured from the center of the tree. "Now however, your suffering is at an end my friend. We will be able to aid you, as soon as we can discover the location of your pain." The Druids came together, and begun to chant in the ancient hymns as old as the Elves themselves, Hymns that had not changed in a thousand years, hymns that had eventually led to the discovery of nature's true power, and then to the truth of existence, all the mysteries of the world, hidden only by the veil of this reality. "Find the source of the conflict, and understand the danger of the conflict, revel in the purity of all things, and in the end, become one with life and death." The druids chant began to move faster and slower, as time began to break away from the ritual. Once the source was found, nothing would be able to stand between the elves, and there goals. Even if it was deep below the earth, for the elves had already sent a druid down into the depths.

Lord Anzion stood next to the elm, his feet resting in the lealagu that flowed from its base. His men had fought with all the honor of the free people, but still the threat grew stronger. "What could have so enraged our forest, the beasts seem posessed by Locura, and fight with the strength of demons. If we don't end this soon, we will be at the mercy of the Bosquemal." The lord facees his men, gazing at them with piercing eyes. "We must hold out until the forest can be appeased, I ask that you remain vigilant, for we enter the final stretch of this onslaught."

The Traders
The traders unloaded their goods, the wood that had been stroked out of the trees was now being sold for the riches of the outside world. They sat on the docks that had become a second home, each glad to be away from the strife of the forest, and each afraid of what might befall those left behind.

(More to come later)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
military: Reinforce barriers around major cities, recruit.
commerce: Finish trade with Devas, Begin packing to return home.
politics: Adventuring parties, spies (just in case you had forgotten, although honestly, its just rp).
religion: Find the location of whatever is eating the tree.

[Anonomuss]

Shadar-Kai

Illic Marren sat with another figure in one of the small taverns within Cosn'Dorcha.
"The people weren't impressed? That was to be expected. Our allegience still lies with Earth, but it is always important for us all to show reverence to the most ancient presences on Wilwarin. The Storms and the turbulent seas have shown us that Sea and Air are not lightly ignored. I will go once more before the people, and clear the issue up."

"What news from the rest of the world?" The other figure asked, "Is the world about to change?"

Illic smiled, "The world is always changing, just what lies ahead is bloodshed, as it always is. This age of unrest we live in, will be one of conflict, and primarily of change. Whether this bodes well or ill for us, I cannot say."

"So we are set to proceed?"

Illic nodded; "It's time we got underway."

With that the two figures departed from the tavern.

~~~~~~
Actions
Military-Covert Operations
Political-Covert Operations
Commerce-Continuing Trade with Human/Devas. Continue talks with the silent Eladrin, and if no reply is received, eject them from the city.
Religion-Internal relations

[Oracle_Hunter]

Moving day. I'll do some RP later :smallsigh:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Political: Secret
Military: Expansion of Latronis Fleet
Commercial: Maintain Routes (see below); send caravans to Orog Trademeet
Religion: Secret

Trade Routes: (Any)
- Weapons / Metal (Shadar-Kai)
- Weapons & Food / Gold (Phaounm)

Political Secret: (DM Only)
Dispatch Octacusta team to Cosn'Dorcha to secretly investigate Eladrin-Shadar relations

Religion Secret: (DM Only)
Conduct pre-arranged negotiations

[Virgo]

Devic Empire

The Imperial Authority was troubled. High, high on a balcony in the spires of the palace, the Emperor and the Empress sat together, watching the sun set spectacularly into the sea.

The Emperor pours fragrant fruit juice from a carafe on the table and hands a glass to his wife, seating himself beside her. "It seems as if things are less peaceful in our kingdom my love."

The Empress sighs. "Indeed. I am..." she searches carefully for the right word, a breeze stirring her hair as she surveys the majestic view. "I am troubled by this."

"There is unhappiness among the humans."

"Yes, it looks that way."

"Are we actually bad to them? Are we cruel?"

The Empress sighs again, and pauses. "I... I do not think so. We give them rules to protect them, we educate them, we make sure they can support themselves... And yet they insist on rebellion. And I don't know how we can resist without justifying their complaints." She frowns gracefully.

The Empress takes her hand. "Patience and prayer."

----------
Religion: Weeklong, nonstop prayers for stability and prosperity carried on in the temples during the festival (see "Political" below).
Commerce: The Empire continues to try to stabilize the Phaounm states by making them more dependent on the agriculture of the Empire.
Military: Fortify the defenses in port cities against possible naval attacks.
Political: The Imperial Authority declares a weeklong festival to the Sky, allowing the humans and devas to revel together and celebrate the stability and prosperity of their state.

[Sea]

Sea watches and waits.

This should be entertaining.

[Anonomuss]

Shadar Kai

The streets of Cosn'Dorcha were more quiet than they had been in a long while. The hammers and tools of the construction workers and carpenters had fallen silent. The only sound that prevailed throughout the city was the sound of the services in the newly founded, and the old, and rather large, temples to the Earth Goddess.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Actions
Military-Covert Operations
Political-Covert Operations
Commerce-Continue trade agreements with the Humans. Wonder at the suspicious silence from the Eladrin Trade Negociators.
Religion-Prayers to the Earth Goddess.

[Mauril Everleaf]

((No time to roleplay the Phaounm or Tieflings, sadly. They may have to wait until I have some free time in my room this week.))

Elves:
The great cities are well protected and the last of the villages have been either evacuated or trenched in. Some of the villages have been entirely overrun by the wild beasts and the vegetation has already started to encroach up on them, returning what little changes the Elves had done back to their natural forms. The druids who have been searching the earth and sky for the nature and location of the curse upon their great tree. They have discovered that this "chrysophylax" is eating away at the very heart of the tree itself. It is like a worm in a fruit wriggling and chewing its way out. Your druids do not know whether the thing getting out would be good for the great tree or not, but they feel that they could aid or delay its progress somewhat, if they were to try. Deep beneath the surface, the adventuing parties are also finding clues as to what this mysterious "chrysophylax" is. They are finding ancient runes and sigils, marks in a language that none of them can even comprehend, let along read. The sigils pulse with magic and the runes glow and fade, like a great beast slowly breathing in and out. The further they get away from the center of the forest, the less they see these signs of power. Many leagues away, near the Devic city of Ardora, the Elven traders wrap up their business with the Devas. It seems the Devas have many construction plans in the works and they are much in need of timber. Their trip was pleasant and none too long, as the extra security that the Devas had imposed made some of the traders feel uncomfortable.

Shadar-Kai:
The great temple to Earth is turning from a large building into a cathedral worthy of the Mistress. She would be pleased both with the labor put into the structure and the beauty that has been created inside for her. There are great statues of her and a great painting of her and her aspects is painting down the center aisle of the prayer floor. A large ornate stone altar rests immediately below the painting. The people too are pleased with this temple to their matron. The new mines are also pleasing to the people, specifically the merchants. While not up to their previous levels of production they are gaining power in the bargains with the Humans. The merchants feel that within the next season, they should have their old power back and again be ahead on the trades.

Humans:
The trades with the Phaounm are going better. The people, while they may not like the Human\Deva presence, are beginning to accept it. Their trades are prosperous as the larger cities are slowly ceasing to produce their own food. Some of these merchants, however, did not return to Almoris, but rather continued west hoping to reach Orog territory within the fortnight. Out at sea, the Latronis ships are multiplying, with the fleet of war-merchants growing. Eight new six-gun ships are in the works in hopes of fighting off the empowered pirates. The trade routes have been seiged almost, it seems, half-heartedly. Something it keeping either the best pirate fleets from these lanes or is making the pirates otherwise hold back.

Devas:
Your attempts at moving the Phaounm city-states towards Devic dependency seem to be working. Sharinoius has all but given up agriculture and has remained focused on trade and military production. The Devic cities have also focused somewhat more on their militaries. The coastal forts have been manned and re-gunned and the coast guards have been put on alert. ((Please PM me with the specifics of these fortifications as they will determine the results of your next actions.)) In the streets, especially of landlocked cities, revelry ensues. Ordered revelry but revelry nonetheless. Streamers and confetti fill the skies as Humans and some Devas dance in the streets. One of the new temples in Summannor is unveiled and many sacrifices are offered to Sky there. Thousands of prayers offered by priests and laypersons alike asked Sky to bring peace to their land and stability to them and their neighbors. The people who participated aknowledged Sky and his servants the King and Queen as great and wonderful rulers. Many Devic propogandists wandered the streets proclaiming the wonder of the Law of Sky and the Code by which the King and Queen ruled. They were hailed from windows and had flowers rain down on them. However, not all of the Humans participated, claiming that they could not be ordered to celebrate.

Goliaths:
((This is simply an intro problem, for the backstory, read some of the early Eladrin posts and their outcomes.))
The Eladrin enemy has seemingly sealed off its border with the Goliath territories making access to your Orog brethren nearly impossible. Their raids on your camps, however, have not ceased and more and more Goliaths are being pulled away as slaves to the Eladrin cities.

Lizardfolk:
You have lost a great faction of your people, those that held to the old ways. They felt that they had been called by the Sea to go on a quest for a new homeland. It has been many tides since you have seen or heard from them. Another faction, a group claiming to know of other peoples to the north. They set out several cycles ago, riding the migration of the great sea turtles. You are left with just more than half of your original population and some angry and annoying Kobolds coming down the mountains and into your swamps searching for Sea knows what.

[Xondoure]

Elven Forest

The druids close their eyes as they begin to see with their experiences. Slowly each places its hand on the tree, willing it to grow the anomaly out of the tree, and down into the earth. Now, they can only hope that those following the earth lights will reach the end of the tunnels at the core of the tree and deal with the problem.

The Lord Istarel sits with the lady Lisseln on the balcony of the elm. "My lady, I believe you know why you are here. The forest seems to be crying for the oak, but what of our own trees? They to, produce the pure waters that heal this land. How can it be, that our homes are attacked when such harmony flows from their roots. It may be unnecessary, but I believe we should return to our own clans, as it may be in our best interests to ensure the safety of our trees.

High priest Darion looks up over the forest as the sun rose. The trees were painted black, silhouetted by the dawn's light that burst just over the horizon. Morning birds flittered across the sky, there song mixing with the chant of the druids. "The forest still holds the beauty of life, as long as that remains, there is hope for the Bosquemal."

For Mauril's eyes only:
Did you get the pm I sent you on the meeting place? Because neither you nor Oracle Hunter gave any sign that you had recieved the message
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military: Continue defenses and recruitment
politics: Council dissolves, clan leaders return to there homes
religion: Druids push the danger below the tree, deep in the earth lights hoping to allow the adventurers below to deal with the problem, Priests try and sense if the other two lealagu trees are suffering
commerce: Traders return, crops are planted for the next harvest season (what time of year is it anyway)