TW: Shattered-Empire IC

[oblivion6]

[I]War and Chaos has come to the shattered lands of the empire, bringing untold death and destruction as dozens of previously unknown factions rise up to carve out their own power bases amidst the rubble of the faltering goverment.[I]

In the east:
rumours of dwarf clans preparing for insurrection run rampent throughout the area but no on knows if theres any truth to this matter.

Ghost agents from all around the empire are converging in the port city of Lelcar for unknown reasons. certainly not any place an enemy of the empire wants to be.

the naval fleet of Nirva island has been seen along imperial sea-routes. Nirva island has always been a loyal but oppurtunistic ally to the empire. it remains to be seen whether the fleet is simply helping out its neighbor as a gesture of kindness or if this is the precursor to invasion.

In the west
in the strategicly important western province of Dalasia, the imperial legions responsible for the northern region of the province have finally worked up the guts to form a united front against the Knights of Nagarea who have been causing trouble for weeks in an effort to gain control and expand Nagarea's borders. Legion-General Cahlian is calling for support to end this threat and reestablish legion forts in the area.

meanwhile in the south, things are much quieter with the local militia's having to deal with only occasional bandit raids but nothing serious enough to call in the legions for. however there are rumours that armies of three neighboring kingdoms have all been seen massing.

Central provinces:
the imperial capital of Malarae is in shambles with hundreds of factions seeking control of the city by means both fair and foul. it will not be long before the streets run red with blood. Night-watch members are doing what they can to help but its not enough.

in the Lake of Blood region dozens of different monster and bandit gangs are prowling the trade-routes, ambushing caravans and taking slaves for themselves. the local 86th and 87th legions are collaborating with the local Pegasus mercenary archer company to patrol the area but they are simply stretched to thin and no reinforcements appear to be forthcoming.

In the north:
several local lumbering companies are ignoring regulations and legion barriers in an attempt to once again get the lucrative lumber trade flowing. clearly they dont believe the rumours.

in the northern mountans the rich Lhusu mines and surrounding communities have been taken by a large horde of monsters who are now arming themselves with arms made by the rich and superior ore of the mines. the 10th and 11th Legion siege battalions are moving to support the elite 6th legion along the great Galena wall where most of the battles are taking place.

In the south
of all the varying problems of the empire, the worst problems are in the poor southern provinces as tens of thousands of disparate peasants supported by rich merchants are revolting against crumbling imperial control. local militia regiments and the few legions present in the region are streaming north to regroup around Sentinel Watch, a large, fortified hill-fort.

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deepholds

The Mortal lands are splintering apart, as was foreseen. A long period of war will come to these surface lands, and the Deep Trolls will size their chance. The gates have closed. The Trolls, vanished from the surface. It can burn for all they care.

[hydroplatypus]

The First Legion

The Central Provinces

Octavius sat down, exhausted from a day of marching. Regularly he would take a horse to make it easier, but the rebels had shot it out form under him. At least he had put down the rebellion though. Although he took some pride in that his thought soon turned dark again.

'What has the Empire come to, that a few knives in the dark will cause the fall of a nation. Why wasn't there some plan for what would happen? Why was it allowed to fail so quickly?' His eyes drifted over to the maps laid out on his desk, painting a picture of exactly how far the empire has fallen. Even the Imperial city wasn't being useful, with too many factions fighting for control for any help to come from there. No, the legion was on its own, at least until the mess in the capital was sorted out. Octavius figured he would send messages to the stronger factions, to see what was going on there.

He sat there thinking about his next moves for a while, before calling Martialis in to speak with him. Gesturing to the maps he says The biggest threat within reach seems to be the ERA. They have the support of a great many people - traitors all of them - and have the potential to grow larger should they left to their own devices. Come tomorrow we will march North, securing the Central Provinces as we go. Hopefully the people here are still loyal to the Empire, and won't resist our attempts to restore order. If not, then we will have no choice but to force them to accept Imperial control.

Martialis offered a quick salute, and went to give the men their orders. As he left he heard a voice from behind him And keep the killing to a minimum until we get a better grasp on the situation in the intervening provinces. It is likely most of the citizens there are still loyal, and merely a few power hungry traitors are responsible. Don't worry, you'll get your bloodshed when we reach the ERA. Once we get there feel free to show them exactly how the legion deals with traitors.

[WyvernLord]

The Low-Lands Union

News of the emperor's death has sent a ripple throughout the lands. In the south the Union sees its chance, now is the time for independence! In Fallbrook the people gather in the city's square.

Anthony Reclin marched up the stairs reports in hand. He entered through a doorway, he saw the man he was looking for.
"Sir my men are mobilized and the Heirophant has been alerted. I have a few reports from outlying areas. The response is varied there is only one group that would provide a very aggressive response to us."

The Mayor noded, "Good leave the reports on my desk we have some people waiting.
The ranger nods and walks out on the balcony behind the mayor. Silence sweeps accross the crowd as the mayor raises his arms.

"As many of you heard the emperor has died. This news has caused many rebellions in lands close and distant. I have discussed this with leaders of our neighboring towns and we have come to a conclusion. We must band together to protect ourselves from those who would prey on us in their persuit of power."
The crowd starts murmuring obviously worried. The mayor raises his arms to silence the crowd.
To this end we have allied with the Steam forest rangers, and the Druids are sending people to the towns to discuss our shared situation. They are here to join or union of mutual defense. The Low-Lands union will stand together and grow to meet any challenges. Our power will rise and we will make the world tremble. We will help decide the fate of our post empire world. We will lead the way to the coming era and take our place in the list of great powers. We will stand before this tempest and come out stronger then ever before. We shall form a grand alliance that will leave us independent of rule from outsiders forever more!"

[hydroplatypus]

1st legion

morale: 2

To the legions between me and the ERA

Greetings fellow legionaries, it is good to find men still loyal to the empire in these times. We must act quickly should we wish to restore the empire to its former glory. The ERA lies to your North, and they are the largest rebellion in the area. I propose that we make an example of what happens to those who rebel against the empire. We seek passage through the territories you control, as well as alliance against any new powers that threaten us. Due to the chaos of these times we though that it would be good to send advance notice of our travel through the territories under your control.

[Doc Kraken]

Silverlode Town Hall

Odremar had, in his youth, seen a starving wolf wander near his village. The animal had obviously been lost for days, separated from its pack by some unknown cause. Its ribs were showing and its coat dull, but it still managed to snatch up a terrified chicken with graceful ease.

That wolf had not looked half as hungry as Marinus.

The mercenary general stared at his map, arms clasped behind his back and Liara at his side. At a muttered word or the slightest nod, she would quietly move one of the pieces representing their forces. Raids here, scouts there, a sudden pressure upon the defenses...just so. It was a dance he knew well.

"Care to share your thoughts with the rest of us, m'lord?"

Marinus lifted an eyebrow. "Curiosity, Odremar? You planned half of this. Oh, the timing is different, we must move more swiftly and take advantage of the chaos, but the base strategy is the same. Sounding-out and caution, no bold strokes yet."

Odremar chuckled. "Not quite what I asked, m'lord. Do you think it will work?"

At this, the exiled nobleman gave a thin smile. "Of course it will - you're not about to get me killed. Not when I haven't finished paying you, at any rate."

The sound of the barbarian's boisterous laughter echoed through the night...

[Umbranar]

The Spinning Coin Emporium

Roonwicket looked at the maps. His agents and contacts provided him with up-to-date and accurate information. Things are brewing within the Empire and money is to be made. Legions need weapons, supplies and information, mages want artifacts, farmers in warzones want protection and even other merchants need either protection or information or what-not.

Times were good.

Roonwicket turned to Argus Nuggetpicker, his eldest son.
Send a message to all major factions and make sure that every inn has a pamflet aswell, the Spinning Coin Emporium is open for business and we sell whatever they want if the price is right. Argus grinned and then nodded before he left to relay the orders.

Public Announcement (all factions)

Whatever you want and whatever your lookign for, come to the Spinning Coin Emporium! You ask and we deliver on the most southern island of Merchants Haven. You can meet with Roonwicket Nuggetpicker himself to talk in private about bulk or special orders! Come now and get today what you need tomorrow!

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"We are in agreement, then?"

"Yes."

"Then our will shall be done."

To: The First Imperial Legion [ESP-D: 2]

Good day, sir. I am writing to inform you of the northern affairs.

I am representing the industrial sector of the northern provinces of the Empire. We're hurting a bit due to the various problems up here, but we are maintaining as much of an industrial base as we can. Since you're marching north, I was wondering if you'd be willing to help us with a few of the bigger problems up here.

If you do, we should be able to help you out with supplies and equipment.

P.S.
These communications are rather insecure, so please be careful of what you send through them.


To: The Novastorm Alliance [ESP-D: 3]

Good day, sir. I don't know much about you, but from what I've been able to find out you've got a lot of people and not many farmers. We've got a few farms that are below capacity, so we can help you out there.

But that's not why I'm writing. I'm writing about the orcs standing between us. There are a few legions trying to force them out of our mines, but the orcs are rapidly arming themselves from the mines. If the situation continues as it stands, I fear that orcs will soon begin securing territory within the surrounding area. As they would be securing the territory from us, I propose a joint operation to purge them from the mines beginning next turn and continuing until the orcs have been removed.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion
morale: 2

To Foundation

Should nothing disrupt our plans to march north then we would likely be willing to assist loyal citizens such as yourselves. We are reluctant to promise more than that however, given how fluid the situation is at the moment.

And we are aware that our communications are not too secure. We will not put anything too vital in them. We can discuss details when we get close enough to your territory to set up a private meeting.

[puppyavenger]

Celdrine Conspiracy

Celdras sighed, things were progressing far faster then he had planned on, or hoped, the only he had any chance of keeping his head at the end of thi was if he moved quickly and decisively. Already his personal bodyguards had had secured the area around his offices in the city, and after a flurry of letters and a few personal meetings he was fairly sure he had most of the garrison on-side. He still would have proffered to wait until Caius arrived with the rest of his forces, but that didn't seem like it was going to be possible.

Still, with the Legions on the move and rebellions engulfing the land, it was probably best to try and secure some support for the project outside the environs of the Capital. And so he set to work writing some letters.

To 1st Legion

With the disappearance and presumed death of all possible heirs to the Empire, the City has fallen into complete anarchy and the mechanisms of governance are collapsing before our eyes. As such, myself and several other concerned officials and citizens of good standing are establishing a provisional government. You're cooperation with the new governing council would be most appreciated.


To ERA
With the Imperial family having forsaken us, the City has fallen into complete anarchy and the mechanisms of governance are collapsing before our eyes. As such, myself and several other concerned officials and citizens of good standing are establishing a provisional government. You're cooperation with the new governing council would be most appreciated.


To local governors, Legion commanders, etc in the central province
With the disappearance and presumed death of all possible heirs to the Empire, the City has fallen into complete anarchy and the mechanisms of governance are collapsing before our eyes. As such, myself and several other concerned officials and citizens of good standing are establishing a provisional government. You're cooperation with the new governing council would be most appreciated.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"The legion has responded within parameters."

"It is time, then?"

"Yes. Project Gateway is soon to begin."

To: The First Legion [ESP-D: 2]

Very well, then. I can see two routes to be viable for you, though neither are likely to allow passage without combat.

The first route will take you through the lands presently held by the Celdrine Conspiracy to the Lake of Blood, which you'll likely need to fight through. This leaves but one legion to negotiate passage from.

The second route involves gaining passage from two local legions and will likely result in conflict with the ERL. From previous communications, I surmise that this is not seen to be disadvantageous to you.

To: The Enlightened Revolutionary Army [ESP-D: 4]

I suspect that you know who I am, and who I represent. I'll be keeping this brief.

The first legion is likely to soon be marching northwards, to engage the orcs infesting the Lhusu Mines. I am aware that, due to your leanings, they are likely to seek to engage you in combat. I am offering you an opportunity to avoid that, by letting the legion tire itself fighting the orcs instead.

No doubt you have seen the message which I sent to the legion recently, offering them two routes. If you can see to it that the legion's path along the first route is unobstructed, then you will see them fighting the orcs, the bridge-trolls, and others that would eventually oppose you.

A canny mind could profit from such a scenario.

To: Celdrine Conspiracy [ESP-D: 4]

I see that you have made an offer to the First Legion, recently, for mutual aid. If I may, I would like to suggest a channel for such aid:

Assist the First Legion in reaching the Lake of Blood, and you will shortly see the flow of resources to the interior increase. For aiding, a number of those resources will likely be earmarked for you.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion
morale: 2

To Conspiracy [2]

It is good to hear news from the Imperial City. For the moment however the rumors we have heard show that the imperial city is almost completely in anarchy. It is good that someone actually has a plan to get some order back to the empire. Should you be successful in re-establishing your provisional government we would be greatly pleased, and will cooperate.

The legion is currently looking to stamp out a rebellion in the north that goes by the name of the ERA. we would appreciate if you could influence the legions in the intervening territories to allow us passage. Given the chaos in the empire and the first legions reputation we are worried that they might not allow us passage. Surely the influence of a major power in the imperial city would speed our passage.


To Foundation [2]

The option of going through the conspiracy's territory is not really viable, as we still would have to pass through a lot of territory, and with the lake being largely bandit controlled for the moment it doesn't seem like it would be worth the effort. We will likely be taking the fight to the ERA as soon as possible, and helping you once that is done. If you wish us to come north we would appreciate any efforts you could make to convince the intervening legions to allow us passage to fight the ERA. with the chaos in the empire we can no longer simply assume they will let us pass.

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army
The E.R.A was celabrating. They had siezed a sizeable area of land and displaced all legions with in it. To the best of there knowledge everything was going well. Even the political enemies within the E.R.A were celabrating together. Suddenly a horse man ran into camp, both him and his horse looked exhuasted. "The 1st legion, South, coming!" He shouted. Quickly the mood darkened, everyone had heard of the horrors that 1st Legion inflicted on their enemies. Cries of "What shall we do?" "We're doomed" and"If we are to die then let us die with honor!" In response one of the generals said "We must get more information, we shall not panick, we shall not dispair for that only aids the enemy. Our leaders will think of something, do not fear." This manage to calm everyone down though there was still fear in their eyes.

To Celdrine Conspiracy
We shall leave you alone as long as you do not aid our enemies. In time perhaps we could nurture an alliance.
To Foundation
We believe that 1st legion will not go that way though we will try to incourage them to. We are glad that seak to aid us. Once 1st legion is dealt with we shall repay the favor.
To 1st Legion
A messenger appraoches your camp. He bears a flag of truce. He speaks to all of your men. "The souls of the inocent that you have slain long for vengence. If you can beat us down then we shall only join them. The greater the attrocities that you commit the more the people shall resist you. You fight for a lost cause. If you manage to restore the empire then what? No one will like you, they all will resist you. You are monsters, even your "allies" know this. There will be a reckoning for your actions against humanity. Every inocent that you slaughtered, every child you ophanned, every woman you widowed, they all long for your blood! And we shall give it to them!

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"The first step is complete. We have but to wait."

"The legion responded. They have rejected route one."

"The contingency is in place, however. Since they requested our aid, we may interact with the local powers directly."

To: The First Legion [ESP-D 2]

I see. We'll mobilize what forces we can get to clear out the bandits later, then, and attempt to get safe passage for you so that we can re-establish the industries up here.


To: Legions of the Core [ESP-D ?]

As a concerned citizen of the empire, it has come to my attention that there may shortly be a conflict within these northern territories. It has also come to my attention that the first legion, well known for its brutal tactics, intends to take part in these conflicts to ensure that the empire does not fall in this trying time.

As the legion has expressed some concern that they will be opposed during their march, I would implore you to let them pass into the northlands, and by so doing ensure that this interim period is as short as possible. Your actions in the coming months could be the deciding factor in whether the empire endures this catastrophe or if it falls.

Thank you, for listening to this humble citizen.


"The ERA has agreed. The only conditions remaining are the Novastorm Alliance, the Celdrine Conspiracy, and the core legions."

"Is contingency C ready?"

"Three months."

"Excellent."

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

Khorax sat alone in the Palace's main hall, eyes closed, in deep thoughts.

In front of him a map of the Empire, or at least what 'was' the empire, with pins in important locations.

Suddenly out of nothing a strong gust of wind sept the room, except that every window was closed. It was like the air was pushed away by something.
The reason was clear a few moments after as the form of the Red Archmage himself materialized in the middle of the room.

"Lord Daedolon" said Khorax slowly "I would prefer that you use doors like common people"

"Do I register as 'common', my Lord? Doors looks clumsy to me" answered the mage with a vicious grin.

"You would be very clumsy, my friend, in a strong Nullification Field" said a voice coming from the end of the hall, it was Parias, the techmaster of Paradigm One.

Khorax tipping on the table smothered any retort the mage was certainly about to use.

"Enough with petty talking my Lords. There are matters at hand more pressing than estabilish your respective prowess. I AM SURE you understand" said Khorax.

Both men immediately changed behaviour and bowed slightly.

"I summoned you today to discuss the current situation of our beloved city, with the death of the Emperor we are cut off from any external supply.
This means we can no longer live in secrecy and have to surface immediately or we will starve to death or worse.
We can start agricultural operations on the fields above Paradigm One, but we'll need food supplies until the first harvest.
There is also the issue of the nearest mines to discuss; rumors say that these are held by renegade creatures."

"Mighty Khola, we border the Lake of Blood in the south which is a hub for trade routes, we should send some men there to secure it and make ourselves known to the food merchants." said Parias

"I concur" said Daedolon "And we should send some of our finest to secure the mines too. With the Emperor's funding cut off we need a source of income, they are very near and very valuable."

"That could be a problem, the mines are...were a property of the Emperor... and I received this communication today" said Khorax handing The Foundation message to the other two.

"THEIR mines? This is unacceptable"
"The situation is more volatile than I had modeled"
"I concur with both of you, we are to take action NOW. Lord Daedolon, put the conclave on yellow alert... I want all the elder wizards ready to war. Master Parias, please open the Zensunn armoury and equip our army up to level B gear."

With the plan of action clear the two men bowed and left the room hastily.

Khorax assumed again the position he had before, his eyes closed. Then, after a good five minutes, began to compose a message.

To The Foundation [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings sir,
I have trouble assessing what you mean with YOUR mines, as the Lhasa mines lay deep within our borders.
I notify you that we intend to claim them as ours. Any unhautorized border cross will be considered an hostile action and treated as such.

We are delighted that you may have food to spare, that is definitely negotiable.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"The Novastorm Alliance has responded."

"The result?"

"Result number three. They claim the mines as their own."

"Oh? I believe that we've found our second middle, then."

"Indeed. Still, we should continue to play the part."

To: The Novastorm Alliance [ESP-D: 3]

I see. I'm sorry to hear that you carry such sentiments.

We have worked the mines which you covet for decades uncounted. We worked its ore, and managed the flow. That orcs presently infest the mines is nigh-unbearable. We will take them back.

For the present, however, we will overlook your ambitions, in favor of our working together to grow stronger than those who would destroy us. To that end, we offer two deals.

The first is simple. We have a project underway, to create soldiers. It will require great skill in magic, as well as a strong technological base. I am told that you have both. I propose the following exchange:

We provide you with food, and other supplies.

In exchange, you bend some of your expertise towards bringing this project to fruition.


The second is less simple, and will be addressed only through secure channels.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

To: The Foundation [ESP-D: 3]

I do not wish to insult your customs or laws, but by the Imperial ones working and managing a resource doesn't grant you ownership of it.
We follow Imperial Law.

Still, if you manage to send a sizable force to help taking them back I think we can reach a reasonable working agreement: your experts will return to the mines to ensure optimal production for a % of the output.

You honor us in asking to partecipate in a research project, but from our point of view the mines matter is the most important, as we intend to seize them in a matter of days.
Should you refuse our terms then other matters will become irrelevant.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor (Moral 4)

To Rebelling Southern merchants

We are surprised how quickly you gave up the empire's ways and have tried to take this country for yourselves. Let us assure you that will not happen. Although the Emperor and his family are gone, the people of the empire are still here. We give you this opportunity to surrender and keep your wealth, status, and land. If you do not, you will be hunted to the last man. There is no forgiveness for traitors to our great country.


To Rebelling peasants in the south

The merchants are using you to further their own goals. It is a merchants way to take advantage of others. What are they offering you to betray your country, there may be a way to remedy your problems without committing treason.


To Holdouts on Sentinel Watch

House Askor's army is on it's way to assist in your fight. The Empire will prevail.


To factions loyal to the Empire (open letter, but directed at loyal factions)

As we have all seen, the Empire is slowly crumbling. Rebels are picking away at our territory, and foreign armies sit at our borders ready to strike. I am sure we are all doing our part to keep the empire in tack, I do not wish to interfere with that. What I am looking for, is a list of those of us who wish the empire restored, so if a foreign army invades, we will know who will meet them and keep them from imperial lands. Please respond by the end of the turn.

[hydroplatypus]

1st legion
morale: 2

To Royal House Askor [2]

The first legion remains loyal to the empire, and intends to work to restore it. We would also appreciate a copy of the list when you get it.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"They're acting independantly. The plan"

"allows for this. Let them take the first stroke; whomever wins, we will destroy."

"Very well, then. That's...contingency E, already?"

"O-5 will be ready soon enough. L-1 will support us in this endeavor. One condition remains to be cleared."

To the Novastorm Alliance [ESP-D: 3]

Very well, then. Our forces would be prepared at <next EOT>, but it seems that you intend to act before then. We've contacted a small band of mercenaries who may be able to join you in the offensive, but otherwise I'm afraid that it'll be a while before we can strike in force.


To the First Imperial Legion [ESP-D: 2]

It would appear that the battlefield up here is rather larger than expected. A group of mages are looking to take out the orcs in the mines, but they don't seem very keen upon seeing its resources used to restore the empire.

I've done what I can to expedite your passage to the north. We'll be waiting warmly for your arrival.


To the ERA [ESP-D: 4]

Some valuable information for you: a band of wizards will soon be fighting in and around the Lhusu Mines, against an orc horde. Said band likely represents one of the largest contingents of imperial wizards still active. From their actions thus far, they don't seem to be very interested in sharing their lands, which I understand is something that you'd like to have. Worse, they appear to be a tad expansionist.

If you choose to act on this opportunity to remove someone who will no doubt become highly annoying to both of us in short order, I will get your forces to them disguised as mercenaries under my employ. Once there...well, you have a large group of distracted and poorly defended enemies that think of you as an ally. The obvious action, and its results, should be quite apparent, at that point.


To the Royal House of Askor [ESP-D: 4]

I seem to be more or less alone in this, but I don't consider the empire to have fallen yet. If I can help it, the empire never will.

[GnomeGninjas]

Foundation ESP-D: 4
Regretably I am going to spend most of my resources trying to hold of the 1st legion and we shall be unable to take this opportunity.

[WyvernLord]

The speech finished Mayor Greenbloom begins writing letters.
1st legion (ESP-D 2)
Greetings from the Union
It is good to see such loyalty in such troubling times as these. It pleases me to tell you that things in the lands nearby my city are currently rather calm. I look forward to further communications.
Deep trolls (ESP-D 5)
Greetings from the Union
I have heard that you provide useful technology for a price. I may contact you at a later time to arrange a deal.
Celdrine Conspiracy (ESP-D 4)
Greetings from the Union
I'll be watching the capital closely. Since the people of my union wish to remain neutral from dealings in the capital, do not expect support from us to be forthcoming.
Novastorm Alliance (ESP-D 3)
Greetings from the Union
I have heard that the people of your town need food and other supplies we have plenty and would like to help you. However we can not afford charity it this time. A payment would be required, there are certain rumors of far advanced technology in your control. Some way of sharing this technology could make this a mutually beneficial relationship.
Thalitean Cults (ESP-D 7)
Greetings from the Union
I will not take action against you unless you threaten my lands.
ERA (ESP-D 4)
Greetings from the Union
We can not support your military directly but we will attempt to support you against the 1st Legion as much as possible.
House Askor (ESP-D 4)
Greetings from the Union
The Union is a group focused on these defense of our lands against those who might exploit it. This means we will attempt to stay neutral in the affairs of the empire as a whole.
Silverlode Contract (ESP-D 3)
Greetings from the Union
The Union will remain neutral in your affairs.

[Doc Kraken]

As the companies that make up the Contract begin to move, certain grim-faced men detach themselves from their fellows, riding hard for distant lands...

Lowlands Union (ESP-D 3)

To the people of the Lowlands,

As shall we. I see no need to meddle in your affairs.



Novastorm Alliance (ESP-D 3)

You mountain folk are hard to reach, but often the greatest gain is to be won from the most difficult endeavors. I am Marinus Laenus, and I represent the combined forces of the Silverlode Contract, a mercenary force of some repute. We are encamped to your south, as you may have noticed. Rumor is the stock and trade of an accomplished sellsword - and these days, rumor speaks of little beyond chaos and slaughter. The emperor dead, if such a thing could be believed, and a horde of orcs occupying the mines so close to your homes.

As of now, the Contract has no stake in any struggle you may have with them. We are mercenaries, however, and are likely to become embroiled in such a nearby conflict. I thought it best to open potential negotiations before the beginning of any official hostilities. Should you so wish, our blades may yet come to your aid - for a nominal fee to be discussed, of course.

The Foundation (ESP-D 3)

You mountain folk are hard to reach, but often the greatest gain is to be won from the most difficult endeavors. I am Marinus Laenus, and I represent the combined forces of the Silverlode Contract, a mercenary force of some repute. We are encamped to your southeast, as you may have noticed. Rumor is the stock and trade of an accomplished sellsword - and these days, rumor speaks of little beyond chaos and slaughter. The emperor dead, if such a thing could be believed, and a horde of orcs occupying the mines so close to your homes.

As of now, the Contract has no stake in any struggle you may have with them. We are mercenaries, however, and are likely to become embroiled in such a nearby conflict. I thought it best to open potential negotiations before the beginning of any official hostilities. Should you so wish, our blades may yet come to your aid - for a nominal fee to be discussed, of course.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4
"Mercenaries? That's unexpected."

"It effects little. We benefit more from it than our opponents."

"Continue with contingency E?"

"Move to mod-a."

To the ERA [ESP-D: 4]

If I recall my military history right, I feel that you may be well served by using a sacrificial doll. Withdraw to a hidden area with most of your forces, leaving a small contingent behind to be destroyed.

If done properly, this action will see the enemy believing you destroyed, while you are free to act elsewhere. To that end, I propose the following plan to you.

1.) A token force continues to barricade as you are doing now, to the effect outlined above.
2.) A second force will engage the magi to the east, as outlined in a previous message. This will give an explanation should they realize that not all of your forces were defending as expected.
3.) The remainder will shelter in Foundation lands, to re-activate following the departure of the legion to the south, or the legion's destruction, whichever comes first.

As the legion lacks significant espionage capabilities, and as they expect minimal resistance, this tactic should assure your survival, should you agree.


To the Contract [ESP-D: 3]

I expect the lands in this area to come into conflict shortly. We would enjoy having a few allies when this conflict begins, and have a bit of wealth with which to reward said allies. Probably more than the other factions in this area.

If you would be interested in such an arrangement, you need but make an offer.

[GnomeGninjas]

Lowland Union ESP-D: 4
Thankyou freinds. In these troubled times life can be hard for those on the side of righteousness. Your every contribution helps.
Foundation Esp-D: 4
Thank you for your suggestions, they seem like good plans though circumstances might prevent us from carrying them out.

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deep Trolls

To the Lowland Union

Currently, we are not selling anything. In fact, we had rather hoped people would have forgotten us by now. In anycase, we serve the throne. We don't give a pugs ass who sits on the throne, but durning these times of unstabillity, we prefer to remain in solitude.

To the Foundation
Now, we know that you know we're here. we would like to make a deal however. We would like to be more or less.... forgotten. As you have better assets there then we, what would you wish in exchange?

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To the ERA [ESP-D: 4]

Though we have limited assets which we are able to commit, we might be able to help with these 'circumstances'. To determine whether this is the case, however, we would need to know more of them.

To the Deep Trolls [ESP-D: 4]

Since its establishment, the Foundation has operated in the shadows. When the Empire is restored, we will continue to operate in the shadows. We are the Empire's Foundation, after all.

If you'd like to remain hidden, we'll respect that. Since we expect to have this area at least nominally under our control fairly soon, we'll leave you be, and at least attempt to ensure that others do the same.

If you would like, though, we would be interested in an agreement of trade. I am told that your technological prowess is, to be frank, legendary. I believe that for access to these technologies, you would be the one to dictate the terms.

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Foundation (And DM might want to read OOC part)
We can't reveal the full extent of our Technological capabillties. Local goverment secerts and all. And yes, we are allowed to have those, by the treaty I signed anyway. In anycase, we've slowly been releasing information, but can speed up the process in some areas.

All we ask for in exchange is that you share any intel on the current state of the empire, and help us not be noticed by external forces.

OOC; Deep Trolls, we're long lived:smalltongue: Treaty was signed bout... 300-400 years back?

Also, the deal is, we help you with Tech projects, you let us see whats going on. We'll work on the "Erasing Records and hiding presence" bit later.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To the Deep Trolls [ESP-D: 4]

I'll be keeping you up to date, then. Here's what we know.

1.) The Emperor, and his heirs, have died, leaving the succession in question.
2.) Several malcontents have declared independence from the empire. The House of Askor is compiling a list of factions yet loyal to the Empire, which presently includes myself and the First Imperial Legion, to my knowledge.
3.) There are, apparently, some interesting happenings down south. Unfortunately, my intelligence sources are far from comprehensive in the area. I've heard word of peasant uprisings, merchant rebellions, and some form of cult, but nothing specific.
4.) Up here in the north we're about to have a nice little war with six factions involved. I'm looking to see a few of the less pleasant factions removed from the area during this war, so as to allow for us to make a nice base for the empire's recovery.
5.) Unfortunately, my sources elsewhere in the empire are of significantly lower quality. The capital is the battleground for several hundred different factions, and I know practically nothing about the other provinces.

The Enlightened Revolutionary Army, which bases itself just to my south, has most likely intercepted this message, and thus knows of you. However, they have a fairly significant incentive to not act on it, due to the First Imperial Legion marching against them at the moment.

When I know more, I'll let you know. Was there any other information that you would like to have?

[puppyavenger]

Celdrine Conspiracy

To Imperial Legion We'll be sure to secure the City by the time you're finished with your current business. due to some other communications we've received, we just want to make sure, you'll be going North to fight the ERA?

To Foundation IF they wish to come this way, we won't stop them, although I don't think that's their intention.

To ERA Both of us have somewhat bigger problems at the moment, it seems

To Union All such things will have to be decided in the future, but your position is noted.

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Foundation
This should be good. Typical historic patterns are playing out, and a fairly normal stage in a life of a empire. From a objective view. Think of it as a cold or a fever on a nation scale.

Just keep us informed, and we'll help with the Tech.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion
morale: 2

To ERA [2]

Your Scouts find the head of the messenger you sent to the 1st legion mounted on a pike in your lands. A search of the area reveals the rest of the body, or rather most of it. In the mouth of the head is a rolled up message. It says:

You speak with Bravado, but do not have the strength to back it up. You speak of justice and vengeance for the innocent, but none that we have slain have been innocent. Before this war the legion fought against various rebellions in the empire. All of these people fought against the just ruler of the land. All of them were traitors. Would you not punish any who betrayed you? The legion serves this purpose to the empire, and make no mistake it is a vital purpose.

You rebel, and say that you don't need the empire, but let me ask you something. Who paid for the roads you trade on, and even now use to sustain yourselves? Who reorganized the farming systems, doubling yields? Who provided the legions that kept you safe from outside invaders? Who provided the security that you could pass from one end of the world to the other without being attacked? The Empire provided all of this to you, and yet you revile those that made your lives so much better. This cannot be allowed to pass unpunished or else all the good the empire does would come undone.

You call us monsters? Well sometimes monsters are necessary to punish evil, for no one else is willing to so what is necessary. Would you allow traitors to go free, and your nation to fall simply because some would call you evil for punishing those already guilty?

OOC: send letters discreetly if you plan to insult the legion, as they will kill messengers that are openly insulting.


To the foundation [2]

Indeed, we will be there shortly. If these mages are indeed denying the Empire its right to its own resources then we will enjoy crushing them.


To Lowlands Union [2]

A letter arrives at your towns. It says the following:

It is good to hear from fellows loyal to the empire in these troubled times. It is also good to hear of areas that are relatively calm. We also look forward to further communications.

- General Anthony Octavius



To Conspiracy [2]

We will likely be sending the majority of our forces up north to fight the ERA, should we be granted passage through the intervening territories. A smaller force may be sent south to aid the legions at Sentinel Watch, so that they are not overrun. We have yet to contact them however to see if the need our aid. Should they not we will simply send our entire force north to fight the ERA. We have no other plans for the moment.


To Legions at Sentinel Watch [2 or lower]

How is the situation with the legions? Although the majority of our forces will be otherwise engaged in putting down a rebellion up North, we might be able to spare some forces to help you in your conflict. We have only heard rumors, and our scribes have been otherwise occupied. Where is Sentinel Watch in relation to us? Are there any significant intervening territories? If not and you need help we can provide some aid to you.

[oblivion6]

Legions to 1st Legion[2](Foundation may read)
always good to hear from friendly forces in this day and age. I and my counterpart in the 75th Legion wont interfere but please be swift in your passage. you may be a fellow legion but things are crazy enough without the presence of additional legions, even for short periods of time. police-states are already being muttered about.

Sentinel watch to 1st Legion[2]
it is quite likely we will be overrun before long. the situation is as follows: we are heavilly outnumbered, undersupplied and most of our leadership staff is gone. hell, i'm only a militia captain and i have more experience than some of the Legion officers who are now in charge down here.

we will gladly accept any help you can give us. Godspeed general...

Captain Tomard: head of Sentinel Watch garrison

Southern merchants to House askor[1]
[the merchants are speaking on behalf of the peasants as well as themselves.]

the emperor is dead and hs daughter has either abandoned us or is dead herself. why must we continue to abide by the old ways? look at these peasants, until we came along they were poor and starving with no aid forthcoming...atleast this way they are properly.

Central provinces to House Askor[0]
many of the governors and legion commanders in the region agree to help establish the provisional council.

Celdrine Conspiracy[Open]
you recieve dozens of replies from all over the empire from those who are still supposedly loyal to the empire such as various legions, merchants, governors and even the ghosts who were the emperors intelligence service.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"All conditions cleared. We've won."

"There is the possibility for our victory to become incomplete if two other conditions are met."

"Then let's ensure that they are not met."

To: Silverlode Contract [ESP-D: 3]

The situation has reached its critical state. What would it cost to hire a small, yet skilled force to conduct a surprise attack?


To: ELA [ESP-D: 4]

The legion has received its permission to march. They will be upon you shortly.

If you have any actions to take, now is the time.

If you should decide to stand and fight, we will welcome any civilians who wish to avoid the combat area.


To: Celdrine Conspiracy [ESP-D: 4]

They have their route to the ELA. Thank you for agreeing to provide the alternate route, though, should relations have prevented their passage.

I feel that we will be working together soon.

To: The Deep Trolls [ESP-D: 4]

The First Legion is marching northwards. They should be here shortly.


To: The First Legion [ESP-D: 2]

We have received the excellent news. I look forward to seeing you shortly.

[Killerloop]

Khorax sighed: "Volatile... the situation at the moment is not just volatile, there is a rainbow of banners flowing"

To: The Foundation [ESP-D: 3]
I am glad, any help will be rewarded.
Should this come to a reasonable ending I'm pretty sure we can talk about your project, our techmathurgos are very interested.

Since we are at it, do you have control of the Woods? Can you provide lumber if required?

To: The 1st Legion [ESP-D: 2]
Greetings Commander,
I am the representative of the Imperial Coal mining operations in the Lhasa mines, and I beg for your help.
A throng of hostile creatures are attacking them and we had to retire our workers, we are assembling a small force to try to take them back but we fear some bandits and traitors are to take advantage of the volatile situation against us and the loyalists in general.
Please send some men to aid us in this dark hour.

To: The Silverlode Contract [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings,
The north matters are extremely complicated, as you may expect our mines attract a lot of unwanted attentions.
We could use a hand against certain parties who wish to take them from us, if you can help us in the matter we may reward you with gold or fine crafted weapons from the mines themselves.

And, if you have more men for hire we would like a small contingent to help us secure the trade routes around the Lake of Blood, a spot which is of some interest to us.

To: The Union [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings from the Alliance,
We are pleased to hear from you, but our distance troubles us about the possibility of safe delivery of goods.
Do you have a presence in the Lake of Blood territory? Or do you ship your goods by the sea?

To: The Deep Trolls [public]
A small scout party, crossing the border into Deep Trolls land

"We shouldn't have ventured this far from Paradigm One"
"Shut your mouth, we are on a diplomatic mission! Raise that f***ng white flag HIGHER"
"What are we looking for?"
"*sbam!* you dumbass, it is WHO and they are rumored to be big folks. So do not anger them with your stupid mouth. There I see a settlement, onwards!"

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Paragram One Scouts

"May I ask what you gentlemen are doing here?" The voice sudenly appears behind them.

"Also, just because we are Trolls does not mean we are uncivilized.

If they turn around, they are confronted with a humanoid figure. A stocky human 12 feet tall, with stony looking skin and molten orbs for eyes. Who's wearing well made work clothes and glasses.

[Umbranar]

The Spinning Coin Emporium

To ERA [ESP-D:3]
Greetings Generals of the Enlightened Revolutionary Army,

I seems that dire times await you with the 1st Legion marching north to crush all "heritics". I, Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, think that the Emporium might be able to help. I wont go into details since Im sure others will know of the contents of this message but I can assure you that if gold finds its way into the right pockets, anything can be done. We have that gold and Im sure we can make a deal that profits the both of us.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium.

To the Novastorm Alliance [ESP-D:3]


Greetings Sir/Madam,

It has come to my attention that you are having some "ownership" issues considering some mines in your territory. My agents are intercepted several messages concerning this issue, namely some interesting ones from the Foundation, and I am sure the Emporium can be of service. As experts in both Magic and Technology you might be able to help us. It would be wise to discuss certain details in a more secure location.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium

To the Lowlands Union [ESP-D:3]

Greetings Mayor Greenbloom,

I, Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, wish to extend a hand in the hope we might be trade partners. The lowlands are a beautiful region and we wish to keep it that way. If there is something you need, do not hesitate to ask. We can provide about everything.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicket, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium

To Royal House Askor [ESP-D:3]

Greetings House Askor,

We have read your concerns and hope you do not have the same opinion about the Spinning Coin Emporium. We have been merchants for generations. We assure you that we have never or will take advantage of the common folk. I hope we can trade or provide services for Royal House Askor in the future.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coing Emporium

To the Great Fair [ESP-D:3 or less]

Greetings fellow businessmen,

Although the Spinning Coin Emporium had business with the Great Fair on a small scale we would like to expand trade. I am sure both the Fair and the Emporium can profit from this.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium

To Sentinel Watch [ESP-D:3 or less]

Greetings Captain,

Word of your troubles has reached the Spinning Coin Emporium. We would like to negotiate a deal. We can provide about everything you might need given enough time or ofcourse gold. Should Sentinel Watch be interested send us a message or send a representative to our trade hub.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium.

To Malarae (Imperial Capitol) [ESP-D:3]

Greetings Esteemed Leaders of the Imperial Capitol,

Although times are dire, we would like to open a trade hub within the city. I am sure the Emporium can help on several fronts like water, food, horses, weapons and whatever is needed. Should you be interested please let us know or send a representative to our main trade hub on the most southern island of Merchant`s Haven.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium.

[Killerloop]

To: The Spinning Coin Emporium [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings sir, I am Khorax, Khola of the Novastorm Alliance... which is the roughly equivalent of 'ruler'.
We welcome the chance of making business with you. Please feel free to send a delegation to Paradigm One for private discussions.

Rest assured, no unwanted ear can listen into the halls of Paradigm One

To: 86th and 87th legions, somewhere in the Lake of Blood region [ESP-D: ??]
Greetings commanders,
I bring you words from the loyal city of Paradigm One, capital of the Novastorm Alliance.
Our loyalty is pledged to the Emperor, alive or dead matters not.

It is in our best interests that the Lake of Blood becomes a viable trade route again, as such we are about to send a small contigent to help you secure the location.
As you might not recognize the banners our troops are easily recognizable by the mages that will accompany them: shaved tattooed foreheads and long red robes.

We look forward to the common goal.

To: The Deep Trolls [public]

"Whoa!" the scouts unsheathed their swords and turned around to face the being behind them.
"Apologies sir, we mean no harm" said the sergeant, dropping his sword to the ground, the rest of the team immediately followed.
"Our mission is to explore this part of the land and try to make contact with the local population which is unknown to us. Can you bring us to your leader? We have a message to deliver"

[GnomeGninjas]

Spinning Coin ESP-D:3
We shall give you wealth if you shall give us high quality weapons. We could give you other services as well though at the moment most of our energy is going into stopping 1st legion.
Foundation ESP-D: 4
We shall fight against 1st legion. The situation is very grave and we do not have any resources that are not to be used for the upcoming battle. We would appreciate any aid you give us though we understand that you do not want to fight against 1st legion.

[Umbranar]

The Spinning Coin Emporium

To ERA [ESP-D:3]

Weapons are easy even high-quality ones. I might be able to deliver something more original but that depends on my other contacts. I was thinking along the way of Golems? I was about to try and get some for my personnal safety but I guess we can send the first batch to your lands.

To the NovaStorm Alliance [Private]

A group of farmers seem to pass by your base, only a hundred feet away from your guards. They seem to herd sheep across the land. A gnome suddenly stands before your guards with a grin on his face. He introduces himself as Argus Nuggetpicker, son of Roonwicket Nuggetpicker and he`s here on business with the Khola.

The Emporium has a simple offer, Khola. Your technical and magical prowess should be able to create golems, if with the help of Emporium engineers and mages. In return we offer gold and information. Such as the Foundation trying to contract Mercenaries to claim the mines. There are more factions involved but we can not spill all we know for free.

(OOC - Trade Suggestion: X temp Tech and X temp Magic for X temp Wealth and X temp Esp.)

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion

To Central Provinces Legions

We thank you for allowing us passage. We do not intend to stay in your provinces any longer than necessary for transit.


To Sentinel Watch Garrison

Very well, we will send what we can spare very soon. While not our full force it should help to some extent.


To Novastrom

We were earlier contacted by the foundation earlier about clearing out the same mines, which they claim belong to them. I believe they also mentioned disloyal mages were trying to claim the mines as their own. Would you happen to be those mages?

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"Condition two is being worked towards."

"Can we stop it?"

"We don't have to."

To: Novastorm Alliance [ESP-D: 3]

Our project is simple, and addresses our needs. Yours as well, if I am not mistaken.

We need military power, but don't have much time nor manpower with which to gain it. Therefore, our alchemists and researchers are investigating methods by which golems might be produced.

As for wood, we yet obey the imperial logging restrictions, leaving wood in relatively short supply. That might change, depending on how regulations change, but for now wood will remain scarce.

Finally, regarding the mines, I've been looking over the maps and I believe that I've found my colleague's error. It would appear that we've both been claiming the mines in question as within our sphere of influence. This would appear to have lead to two critical misunderstandings, firstly regarding your allegiance, and secondly regarding projected future actions. For this, I apologize, though I will ask why you have seen fit not to respond to House Askor's request.

As for the mines themselves, I would like to suggest a compromise, as per the second deal that my colleague wished to make to you behind closed doors. Simply put, we both claim to be a part of the Empire. Why aren't we acting like it?

To: ERA [ESP-D: 3]

Unfortunately, we are restricted from acting directly against the legion. Information, we can provide. Humanitarian aid, we can provide. Military support? That goes far enough beyond our oaths as to make us the legion's next target. Sorry.

Our offer from before yet stands, however. Anyone who seeks refuge from the coming battle is welcome within our lands.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To the Union

We'll respect your isolation. We ask only that if an army invades the empire you join in its defense, and if an emperor is put in place you kneel.


To The Spinning Coin Emporium

Our statements were aimed at those merchants stirring up rebellion, not the Emporium. Our close relationship will continue.


To Southern Merchants

The Empire is more than the leaders, but the sum of all those loyal to freedom. There is no doubt that these are dark times for us, but to use the unrest to kill, steal, and manipulate those that are not as well off is low.

And that is not even counting the foreign threat. They are sitting at our borders waiting for oppurtuists like yourselves to gain a foothold and wear the empires resources down. You may feel you are doing a great thing arming desperate men, but you are being played by enemies abroad.

The Foundation

I like that outlook. I feel ashamed I didn't see the empire in the same light.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

To: The Spinning Coin Emporium [Private, GM Only]

"Dear Argus Nuggetpicker, please have a seat and refreshments while we talk business." said Khorax to his guest.

"We are aware of the treacherous actions of The Foundation and we are taking measures against them, but confirmation never hurts.
About our trade... we are willing to cooperate with you, just wait a minute while my scribes draft a proper contract...


To: The 1st Legion [ESP-D: 2]
We have an enclave of mages but... traitors? Us? We are not the ones asking an imperial legion to murder a 'disloyal' (by their own judgement) city of imperial citizens to protect mines we claim as ours! We asked your help against wild monsters.

Our purpose is to keep the ore flow running and pay our due to the ruling body as soon as its power is restored.


To: The Foundation [ESP-D: 3]
How do you know our relations with House Askor? Are you spying our communications?
And.. a simple 'cartographer error'? The one you just used to call down the might of the 1st imperial legion on us? and call us disloyal to the Emperor?

You can keep your apologies and projects to yourself, you do not deserve to be trusted and our negotiations are over.

We shall meet in person, very soon.

[hydroplatypus]

1st legion

To Novastorm [2]

Hmm... It appears that the situation up north is more complicated than we thought. We apologize for our prior insinuations. As the foundation appears to have been dishonest with us we would appreciate your explanation for this dispute, as well as the situation in the region. With more information we could better decide what we should do when we reach the region. We should be at the foundations borders as soon as we finish with the ERA, so we shall be there relatively soon. We would appreciate to get both sides of the story in order to avoid making a rash decision.

regardless of who owns the mines we will help clear out the monsters there. After all, they are clearly not loyal imperial citizens.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls to the Novastorm Alliance
"Very well. Let me just open up the tunnel."

As the Troll twists the branch of a nearby tree, a mechanical click is heard, and a trapdoor opens up right near where you are standing, with stairs leading down, and the occasional smokeless light source.

"Come in. While we would rather we didn't have any, we will show hospitality to those that show up. Also, the Deep Sage has been intrested in some of the Paragram One mechanical designs for a few decades."

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"They've taken the third solution."

"Very well, then. Unleash the secret weapon."

"Wait, what?"

"Truth, sir. Truth."

To: The First Imperial Legion [ESP-D: 2], Novastorm Alliance [ESP-D: 3]

My predecessor...and I myself, I suppose, have done a terrific job of bungling things, haven't we? As the Novastorm Alliance, as they call themselves, have finally seen fit to clearly declare their allegiance, I'd like to offer a formal apology for our actions, and an explanation. First, though, I feel that all involved parties should have a full view of the situation. To that end, we are allowing the First Legion access to the logs of our communications with the Novastorm alliance.

Now for an explanation of the past actions which have occured in this region, starting from the beginning. 1.65 centuries ago, this Foundation was created by agreement between the various factory managers, farmers, mine managers, and other industrialists in this region to ensure efficient management of the region's industrial capacity. Foremost among the facilities in this region were the Lhusu mines. 1.5 centuries ago, Factory One was established to effectively produce equipment and tools from the ore coming out of the mines.

This arrangement was not disrupted until the Emperor's Death, resulting in the present chaos. Due to the various creatures presently occupying the mines, we have been seeking aid from the factions in the region, in order to retake the mines. One of the factions which we contacted was an order of mages, which we now know as the Novastorm Alliance. Upon our contacting them, they claimed that the mines were within their territory, and that any movement into the territory which they claimed would be treated as a declaration of war.

As the Lhusu Mines and the surrounding lands are imperial territory, and since we have been working these lands for the empire for more than a century, we concluded that the Novastorm Alliance was an anti-imperial faction, seeking to deny the empire the resources of the Lhusu mines. It was based on this misunderstanding that the aid of the First Imperial Legion was requested to assist in the taking of the mines.

Once the mistake was realized, a message was sent apologizing for the mistake. Unfortunately, this message has been rebuffed by the Novastorm Alliance. Based on the content of their reply, it is presently believed that they wish to declare war upon the Foundation.

In order to forestall the destruction of resources, which would be better put to use preventing the Empire's fall, in this predicted conflict, I would like to request that the First Legion serve as a mediator between ourselves and the Novastorm Alliance. As I asked at the end of the letter of apology, we're all members of this Empire. Why aren't we acting like it?

As for the question posed in the last message, yes, we have been spying upon your communications since you came to be considered a hostile faction. I'll repose my question, why haven't you sent notification of your loyalty, as was requested by House Askor?

[hydroplatypus]

1st legion
morale: 2

To Foundation and Novastorm [2]

The explanation of the situation is certainly enlightening, as is the access to the archives. The legion will however wait to hear the Nova-storm perspective of the situation before making any commitments.

[WyvernLord]

To the Novastorm Alliance (ESP-D 3)
Greetings from the Union
We are attempting to resolve difficulties in shipping at this moment. However your response was not an answer. Does our deal interest you?

On a side note what are your thoughts on the ERA? They are quite a brazen group.

To the Deep Trolls (ESP-D 5)
Greetings from the Union
Our knowledge of you is sketchy at best. We know you only because we wanted to know how the empire advanced so far ahead of us.

This is not the reason for this contact this time. We wanted to know how expensive it would be to ship goods past you.
To the Thalitean Cults (ESP-D 7)
Greetings from the Union
We are contacting you at this time to inquire to the costs of shipping past your land?
To House Askor (ESP-D 4)
Greetings from the Union
We would stand by the empire if it is attacked and we will accept and welcome the emperor when the new one takes the throne. On this note some of the people to the south have given us some reason to worry about attempts at subversion. We won't act until we have confirmation but if we can find it would you support us in battle.

We wish to inquire to the costs of shipping past your land. We have wish to maintain trade lines to insure our future prosperity.
To the Foundation (ESP-D 4)
Greetings from the Union
We are contacting you at this time to inquire to the costs of shipping through your land.
To the lands near the Union (ESP-D 7 or probably less)
Greetings from the Union
We wish to deliver an invintation to join the Union or an Alliance with the Union in an effort to protect us against more agressive groups. This invitation will stand indefinitely.

We will not take agressive action and only wish to support the outlying areas of the empire to ensure a quick recovery for the empire in whole.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Spinning Coin Emporium [ESP-D:3]
Golems would be useful. Anything that you can provide we would like. Weapons and golems would be good.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"It is done. We need merely wait."

"A new message has come in. We begin with the post-war operations."

To: Lowlands Union [ESP-D: 4]

We're a member of the Empire. So far as we know, there is no tariff on the flow of goods internally.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

To: The Deep Trolls [private]
We can certainly trade, we are looking for allies so a military force would be really prized.

To: The Union [ESP-D:3]
Apologies, we had grave matters at hand.
Your offer interests us, what kind of technology interests you?

About the ERA... At the moment we haven't made contact with them, they are considered traitors and we are dealing heavily with Imperial legions.

Do you have dealings with them?


To: 1st Legion [ESP-D: 2] and To: The Foundation [ESP-D: 3]
This is outrageous.

Why in hell do we have to tell you why or how we answered to a certain message of certain people. Not to mention the fact that knowing such informations means undergoing espionage on our communications.

Still, you unilaterally decided that we are a rebel faction and called help from the 1st Legion implying that we are traitors. And all this while discussing collaboration for a tech project!!

Now, with your plots exposed, you call for peace? you dare ask us why we aren't behaving like citizen of the Empire?
Ask yourself first: are you the Emperor? no, are you his judges? no, have you a legal legitimate claim on the mines: NO! Working on them doesn't grant ownership.

You are just a bunch of spies and liars, any agreement with you would be just paper and ink with no honor behind it.

As such, and with the 1st Legion knowing this, we claim the Lhasa Mines under our protectorate, as the only honorable faction near them.
We will manage production and offer assistance to any loyalist force requiring it.
This until a new ruling body gets reinstated, at that point we will relish our claims in favor of the new Emperor.

Any member of your faction, woman or man, is strictly banned from the mines and the nearest area. Novastorm forces are enroute to enforce this edict.

Stay away or we will shatter you.

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deep Trolls

To the Lowland Union

Diffrent choices we supose. Or diffrent economic factors at diffrent times, possibly enviromental effects. We didn't do a study.

As for shiping goods above your holdings, go ahead. Frankly, so long as you don't cause trouble, we don't care.

To the Novastorm Alliance

Our millitary is almost purel defensive, and is made of fortifcations and stationary defences. We prefer to wait, and watch the outside world. The only reason we only joined the Empire in the first place was because a adventuerur found us, and once those creep in, you either join or get overrun by looters.

In anycase, we've always wondered how your magitech works, in reguards to the magical componet. The current theroy is that it's a form of psycoreactive energy matrix.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion
morale: 2

To Civil Watch, Southern Legions [2]

To Civil Watch
We have recently become aware of your organizations existence, and wish to establish contact with you. Your goals of protecting the central empire is worthy of praise, and it is at least in part thanks to you that we have hope of restoring the empire.

We would like to make a recommendation to you however. The legions in the south are failing to hold back the rebels, with the rebels coming to the borders of the central provinces. Although the first legion will be sending some forces to help these legions the majority of our forces are required to deal with the larger ERA rebellion up north. It would be in your own best interests to help the southern legions push back against the rebels, so that they do not advance into the territories you protect. At least until I have the opportunity to send the legions against these rebels. Can the southern legions count on your support?


To Ghosts [2]

We are delighted to hear that your organization has survived the downfall of the empire, and are glad to finally be able to contact you. As we both share the goal of reestablishing the empire it seems like a good idea to work together. Is there any light you can shed on the situation with the mines up north? It seems like a complete mess from our perspective.

[oblivion6]

Civil-Watch to 1st Legion
we agree with your words, the legions must hold but i am afraid we simply dont have the military forces to spare. at best we would only be able to spare some morale support at this time.

[they dont have any large military force. their biggest strength is morale and REP]

Ghosts to 1st legion
your messenger returns empty handed. he knows where the Ghosts are rumoured to be gathered but he cant seem to arrange a delivery with them. probably because he doesnt know whos a ghost and whos not...

Southern merchants to House Askor
we are not worried about these foreign powers. we are confident they are reasonable people and will accept diplomacy

to Lowlands Union[0]
none of the surrounding factions are really interested in merging with you at this time.

[hydroplatypus]

1st legion

To Civil Watch

Very well. Although any resources of any kind would likely help with the southern legions. Even anything you could do to improve soldier morale would likely work wonders for the performance of the soldiers. I sincerely hope that the legions, as well as what I can spare to help them will be able to hold out against the rebels.

[puppyavenger]

Celdrine Conspiracy

To other factions of the Imperial City Due to the present chaos and the fact that the Imperial Line is apparently extinct or as by deed abdicated all claim to the throne, myself and a group of concerned citizens and officials will be constituting a provisional government. We welcome all support in securing the City, and will ensure that the words of anyone who provides such is given weight in proportion to their deeds.

Tribune Populares Antyllus Celdras

To Ghosts Assuming that their response means I have a way to talk to them, a message is sent requesting any and all knowledge the can provide about the current state of the Empire

[GnomeGninjas]

To the territories between me and 1st legion
You are probably aware that 1st legion intends to use your land as a battle ground so that they can destroy me. They probably are feeding you lies about how "this must be done for the good of the empire". There actions will not help the empire. They will destroy the land land and get the common people even more angry at them. You know this is true, you cannot recall any of there campaigns which ended without dozens of destroyed fields and burned towns. You do not want them on your land to fight their war. You make think that if you refuse them they will attack you but that is not the case. The answer to house Askor and surely you could explain to Askor that you didn't want them fighting a war on your land and that you thought that they might be trying to take the capitol region for themselves.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor (DESP 4)

To Ghosts

OOC: They responded to my earlier message, so I am assuming I can talk to them.

We are currently trying to deal with the rebellion in the south. We are willing to pay for any information you have on the rebel forces (size, location, source of funding, leaders). We have reason to think Maester Melkar is involved, but we have no proof or knowledge of his whereabouts.

~ Lord Jancor


To Southern Merchants

So you expect invading foreign armies to be diplomatic but the only way of dealing with the rightful rulers is to fight them?

[oblivion6]

Southern merchants to House Askor[1]
we have had many dealings with these nations, and they appear to be reasonable people. more reasonable than the extinct imperial house that is...

Malarae to Celdrine Conspiracy[0]
many of the Legions and local militia companies appear ready to support such a goverment for the time being.

Current events[open]
it appears that the territories between the 1st Legion and the ERA are split. 1st Legion requests permission to pass through while the ERA requests that their right of passage be revoked. the Legions are obviously in favor of the 1st Legion but the general populace of the territories are siding with the ERA.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion
morale: 2

To legions in territories between 1st legion and ERA

The populace seems to be supporting the ERA far too much. Something must be done about that. Obviously military action against them is not a good solution. Are they actually supportive enough to go into open revolt? If so will you side with us against them? We will reserve our usual brutality for the ERA of course. The rebels in your territories are simply being misled, and when the EAR falls they will quiet down.


To populace of the territories between 1st legion and ERA

People of the central provinces, long have you been loyal to the empire. Long have you supported the empire, and looked to the legions for security. Why now do you look elsewhere? The legions are still the strongest military power, and could easily restore peace to the region by putting down the ERA. The empire has not fallen while its people remain loyal, and its legions remain intact. We promise you that we will restore the empire to its former glory or die trying. We will restore peace to the land, where the ERA cannot. They don't have enough soldiers to protect you from the threats that will undoubtedly come. They don't even have a plan for what nation they want to build. What will happen if the ERA wins? I will tell you. The factions within that have differing ideologies will fracture, resulting in even more war. Side with the legions that have protected you for so long. Side with the only faction that can bring lasting peace; The Empire.

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army
Moral:4

To legions in territories between 1st legion and ERA

You seem to be supporting 1st Legion far too much. This is not good, 1st legion may claim to work . The claim to seek the restoration of the empire but who will lead, surely they seek nothing other than there own personal control of the empire. They want to turn your land into a battleground and you have a duty to your people to protect it. You do not need to side with us against them but for the good of those you are supposed to protect do not let them through?

To populace of the territories between 1st legion and ERA

People of the central provinces, long have you been loyal to the empire, but that loyalty has gave you nothing but taxes and tyrants. Long have you supported the empire, and looked to the legions for security but with a falling empire they can nolonger provide it. The legions are still the one of the strongest military powers and could potentialy defeat us without your support. If we fall there will be few to stop them from restoring peace to the region though the mass murder of all who would oppose them. The empire has fallen and its people remain loyal are simply unable to accept change. We promise you that we will create a better society for all to live in if we can defeat people like 1st legion who wish to keap the people under there heel. We will restore peace to the land, where 1st legion can restore only tyranny. There plan is simply to try to force everyone back to how things were without accounting for its failures. They say that we "don't even have a plan for what nation they want to build" that is because we need the imput of people like you so that we will know how we should build it. What will happen if 1st legion wins? I will tell you. They will impower the same tyrants who got us into this mess and they will keap people like us under there heal. We cannot let this happen. We cannot let 1st legion come in and destroy our dream.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"All or nothing?"

"We aren't that desparate yet. All or half."

To: ERA [ESP-D: 4]

The present conflict between yourself and the First Legion is tearing apart the Empire. As a group which has profited by the empire, this threatens our origin. If the two of you are allowed to collide, I fear that little will remain. Therefore, we will be acting to keep the two of you separated for the time being, by arranging for the legion to move south, rather than north.

Your actions thus far are adequete to your role.

To: First Legion [ESP-D: 2]

We have been hearing some disturbing reports from the south. Do you have any information as to what is going on down there?


To: Celdrine Conspiracy [ESP-D: 4]

If our reports are at all accurate, there is presently a fairly major class split occuring in the central provinces, catalyzed by the conflict between the First Legion and the ERA. This threatens to turn into a full scale rebellion, which will then be put down by the First Legion.

In this conflict, the first legion is the empire's face. If the Empire is seen to kill its own people, then I fear that the rebellion will only spread. In such a case, I fear for the Empire's ability to recover.

As the provisional government, you have the power to make the legions back down. If the legions do not assent to the passage of the First Legion, then the ERA will have a momentary victory. The Empire, however, will gain a reputation for caring about its people, eroding the influence of those factions seeking to bring it down.

It is a matter of winning the battle and losing the war, or its inverse. For the empire, my friend, I urge you to act.


To: House Askor [ESP-D: 4]

The present conflict between the First Legion and the ERA are the cause for great concern among us. The divide between the Empire and its people could undermine the Empire.

In order to prevent this, I suggest that the loyal imperial factions focus upon the recovery of the south, allowing the ERA its victory in the north. Once the Empire has regained some of its former strength, it can focus on the ERA.

The main actor that threatens this plan, by attempting to remove the ERA now, is the First Legion. If they continue to act as they are, they will bring further support to the ERA. They might overcome them, but if they do the Empire will have lost the support of its citizens.

There are two factors which will influence the First's actions. They will go where the greatest threat to the empire is, unless the cost of doing so is too great. The increasing cost of marching north is a large part of the present problem, and increasing it will only escalate the issue. As such, I would recommend informing them regarding the full range of problems in the south.

Thank you for your time.

[puppyavenger]

Celdrine Conspiracy (4)

To 1st Legion


Depending on the situation in the City, we may be able to provide some support, of the covert or financial variety, in quieting the populace of the area's you go through. In exchange, on your passage through, we'd ask you ensure that the local garrisons recognize and accept the Governments overall command.


To ERA

If the City can be stabilized sufficiently for it to be viable, We may be able to provide covert and financial support to arm and rouse the populace between you and the First Legion. In return, we'd like recognition of our provisional government as legitimate and the opening of negotiations over the make-up and organization of the Empires replacement.


To Central Legions
In essence, I want to know how much influence or loyalty I have over them.


To Foundation That's largely the reasoning we've come around to as well, yes. Although at this point we're hoping to bring the ERa into negotiations and defuse that potential cancer peacefully as well.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

"Have they relished their idiotic claims?"

"No, they tried to diffuse the situation. They favor diplomacy.... and backstabbing apparently. Almost turned a legion on us."

"Milord I am against full scale war at the moment"
"You always are, we should take the mines AND their lands."

"Aside from the economical gain we have to display strength and earn respect. Lord Daedolon I want you to organize this personally."

The archmage bowed, and disappeared in a flash.

"Milord, these are the models you requested. We also need to discuss further developments." said Parias

"Give me a hour, I have letters to write"

To: The Celdrine Conspiracy [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings,
I am the leader of the Novastorm Alliance, the ruling body of the city of Paradigm One near the Lhasa Mines.
It has come to our attention that we both border the region know as Lake of Blood, it is on our best interest to restore its trading routes to proper functionality.
Do you have any plans for the region? We can help each other there.


To: The ERA [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings,
I am the leader of the Novastorm Alliance, the ruling body of the city of Paradigm One near the Lhasa Mines.
Due to events beyond our control our food supply is scarce, and we are looking for provisions.

If my informations are correct you should have plenty of farmers, maybe we can discuss an agreement.


To: The Royal House Askor [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings,
I am the leader of the Novastorm Alliance, the ruling body of the city of Paradigm One near the Lhasa Mines.
As for your previous request, I would like to notify you that we are loyal citizens of the Empire and look forward to its restoration.

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army
The Foundation ESP-D:4
Thank you friends. Preventing 1st legion from striking at us is vital.
The Novastorm Alliance ESP-D3
We do have plenty of farmers and we believe that and agreement would be profitable.
Celdrine Conspiracy ESP-D:4
We will happily recognize your provisional government as legitimate and we look forward to any aid that you can give us.
Shinning Coin Emporium ESP-D:3We just want to clarify that you will give us weapons and golems in exchange for our wealth.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

To: ERA [ESP-D: 3]
We are glad to know that, however I have to point out that we are an imperial faction and under no circumstance can supply you with soldiers, weaponry or information that can be used against the loyal legions.

Also, we would like to ask you about the Foundation faction.. do you trust them? We have some issues with their group.

[HerbieRAI]

House Askor

To The Novastorm Alliance (DESP 4)

Thank you for your support. We look forward to coordinating with you in the future.


To The Foundation (DESP 4)

We have found that the people's alliance swings like the trees in the wind. They may be supporting the ERA now, but in a few months that could change dramatically. While we wont get in the way of your attempt to direct the 1st the other direction, we do not agree with it. We believe the ERA is a large threat to the empire, equal if not greater than the threat in the south.

[hydroplatypus]

First Legion
morale: 2

To Conspiracy

We should be able too persuade the legions to acknowledge the government. After all they are still loyal to the empire.


To Foundation

The situation in the south is bad, with the legions there retreating. Some of our forces are being sent to reinforce them, and help them hold out until we have time to deal with the southern rebels. The remaining forces should still be enough to crush the ERA.

[GnomeGninjas]

The Novastorm Alliance
Then we would like to point out that we are an enlightened faction and under no circumstances could provide you with anything that could lead to the restoration of the tyranny of the empire.
Also we trust the foundation fully and are glad that they have the balls to give us more than words and pleas for help. Without there aid the upcoming battle with 1st legion would be much harder.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

"Good news Milord?""

"The ERA rebuffed us, but at least made a very useful claim."

"A claim worth more than food?"

"Much more. Master Parias, fetch your best scribes and make me two copies of this message. Store it into our archives afterwards."

"At once great Khola"


To: The ERA [ESP-D: 3]
I do not think that my request for food items would help the restoration the 'tyranny of the empire', I think it would help restore the meals of my people.
Anyway, thanks for your time.

To: The 1st Legion [ESP-D: 2]
Greetings Commander,
As you may or may not know my citizens are having hardships regarding food supply and we are asking around for stocks to buy.
We recently contacted the ERA too, and asked for food in exchange for non-military goods but they rebuffed us since we are a loyalist faction. Nothing new here.

However, during our dealings they said something about the Foundation you may wish to know, you will find a copy of the message attached to the present document made by my scribes. (OOC: Post #70)

In light of this discovery we strongly recommend you to side with us in our claims to the Lhasa mines area.

To: Royal House Askor [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings my lords,

As you may or may not know my citizens are having hardships regarding food supply and we are asking around for stocks to buy.
We recently contacted the ERA too, and asked for food in exchange for non-military goods but they rebuffed us since we are a loyalist faction. Nothing new here.

However, during our dealings they said something about the Foundation you may wish to know, you will find a copy of the message attached to the present document made by my scribes (OOC: Post #70).

In light of this discovery I ask you to consider the true loyalty of the Foundation faction.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"E-1 just sent a bit of useful information to N. They're using it."

"I see. Their information, however, is incomplete. We can use that."

To: House Askor [ESP-D: 4], First Legion [ESP-D: 2]

Our agents have recently intercepted a communication from the Novastorm Alliance to you, casting aspersions upon our loyalty, and mentioning our dealings with the ERA. I do not know if it is due to the incompetence of their spies, or due to willful withholding of information, but they have left this piece of of information incomplete. I will fix that.

We have provided two things to the ERA. The first is information, which their sympathisers have already provided for them independantly of us. The second, which is what was likely referenced by Novastorm, is a place of refuge for civilians for the duration of the coming battle.

In exchange, they consider us to be their allies.

Neither of these actions fall outside the oaths of citizenship, and they have been calculated to avoid harm to the empire. I would instead question why the Novastorm Alliance has seen fit to publish the words of a known enemy of the empire, without seeking to verify the veracity of said words, and without having contacted the one whom those words concern.

Thank you for your time, and I bid you a good day.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To Novastorm Alliance and the Foundation (DESP: 3)

These accusations are a bit surprising. I have faith in the empire and the 1st Legion's ability to stop the northern rebellion, even if these allegations are true. We will trust the 1st will find the truth.

[GnomeGninjas]

Novastrom ESP-D: 3
We would help your people though now we must help our own people. We were mearly stating that we would not give food to your soldiers or supplies that we thought you might seize for military use.

[Nemesis67]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: ++++

To the Furbolgs of the West Wood (+++)
OOC: Are these guys a faction that I can negotiate with? Or is there no organization there? I guess I'll cover my bases either way:

A number of stone plaques carved in the common tongue, modern Dwarvish, and Old Rhunic are delivered to the Woods bearing the following message:

"Greetings to the guardians of the Woods,

We, the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate, bring this message to your lands to inform you of a matter that will direly affect your forest. The 1st Legion, a sub-division of the Imperial Army infamous for brutality, has plans to crush an uprising in the region to your south. Once their campaign is completed, they have mentioned their intentions to log the Woods for resources to fuel their war efforts. The jackals have no regard for any form of life and will raze the province to the ground if they decide it is necessary. We implore you to aid the ERA in any ways you can now, so they may not indulge their destructive nature later.

-Shogun Osric"


To the Warlords of the North West (+++)
"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Shogun Osric of the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate, returned to this land after centuries of exile. I, with the aid of my brothers who remained behind, have returned to rebuild the nation we were forced out of by the Empire. But in order to do this, we need to survive. And events transpiring near all of our lands is putting such a possibility in jeopardy. The 1st Legion, who I am sure you all are quite familiar with, plans to march on the ERA, who rule the region just south of the West Wood. Based on our preliminary reports, the ERA will be summarily dispatched within a handful of seasons. By the nature of all of our governances of these lands, the jackals of the Legion are highly unlikely to leave us in peace.

As such, I put forward a proposal for the protection of all of our interests. If a extra-regional power has the capability and the inclination to bring troops into our province in an invasion, we will band together to stop them, no matter the current political relations between ourselves. If we are at war among ourselves, we must set aside our grievances, albeit temporarily, to fight the alien. If we stand apart, we can be picked off one by one. Together, we can best even the mightiest of foes. If the legions of the central province grant passage to the 1st Legion this season, it may be prudent to take actions to prevent the ERA from being destroyed in the future. But such a course of an action depends on too many variables to be further elaborated upon at this juncture.

-Shogun Osric"

[Umbranar]

The Spinning Coin Emporium

To ERA
That is correct, ill try to pull some more strings to speed up deliveries. Not sure we can ship them over before (next EoT) but im sure you get them before the 1st Legion is at your doorstep. We should talk in private about more...subtle matters. We would hate to see you wiped from the world by the 1st Legion.

To the Great Fair
We would like to offer your fair a fair amount of gold in return for high quality weapons or even golems. Are you interested?

[oblivion6]

Warlords to RRS[+++]
you recive a message from Urgit, the rightful king of Gaien. he appears to be speaking for all the warlords at the moment.

"sounds like a decent proposal. one we would be happy to accept. i am sorry to inform you that the ERA should not be expecting any aid to be forthcoming from us. we must look out for ourselves..."

Furbolgs to RRS[++++]
[you can try to negotiate, but they are for the most part considered as brutish monsters who have no concept of civilization. they are also not into the whole letter sending business, so any possible discussion would likely need to be a PM]

you dont recieve a response from them.

Great-fair to Spinning Coin emporium
[you seem to be under the impression that its an organized faction. its actually just a place where dozens of merchants from all over the empire come to hawk their wares. however i will have a merchants respond]

for [+++++ +] WEL i could outfit your entire force with fine dwarf forged arms...

Celdrine Conspiracy[GM]
you have some influence over some of the local legions and militia companies but not by any means is it a massive amount.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"Watch the dwarves, he said. It seems that your madman was right with his prediction."

"First time in two decades, I believe. I believe that makes three unexpected events that have been successfully predicted."

"And five-thousand three-hundred and twenty eight failures."

"Enough. Let us begin."

To: Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [ESP-D: 4]

A messenger appears on the outskirts of your lands, holding two letters.


You instantly recognize this as a copy of the letter recently delivered to the warlords of the North-West.



I bid you greetings from the Foundation.

I apologize for intercepting the letter which this messenger is carrying, but we make it a point to pay attention to what is going on in the area. If you would be willing to extend the offer, I feel that a defensive pact between the two of us might be seen as mutually beneficial.

In any case, however, it would seem that we could both benefit significantly from an agreement of free trade, were you to accept such an offer.

May this day find you well, and of good cheer.

[Nemesis67]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: ++++

To the Foundation (4)
"Before I make any decisions, I need to know what your intentions are with the ERA and the 1st Legion. As I said to the warlords, I have no intention of allowing the Imperial jackals to establish a foothold close enough to myself to be a target of them. However, you appear to be playing both sides in that conflict. If your true aims do not conflict with my own, then the Shogunate would be willing to discuss the formation of a mutual defense pact. Though I doubt that the other remnants of the Empire would react well to news of your cooperation with a foreign power.

-Shogun Osric"

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deep Trolls

To The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate

Guraoth Tur Stoneborn. We see you have returned. We invite you to the Hall of Electrum, to speak and become reaquanited.

Signed,
Thane Torvaag.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [ESP-D: 4]

The messenger responds himself, after reading the message.

"You would seem to be well informed. Despite this, you have had the humility to ask us. For that, I shall be honest.

We wish for the present instability to end, so that we may return to the peace which we enjoyed as a member of the Empire. Once that has been achieved, we will return to what we have done for more than a century: building. We care little as to who it is that brings this peace, so long as they are not hostile to us. At present, we feel that the ERA are the least likely to present such a possibility, as they have thus far taken only one action with the potential to draw harm to us.

As both the Legion and the ERA are potential allies to us, we are presently attempting to keep them from coming into contact by drawing the legions of the central provinces against the First Legion. If they should come into conflict with each other, and it looks as though the two are relatively evenly matched, we would prefer that the ERA come out the stronger, as they appear to be more receptive of our short term goals.

If the First Legion should come out on top, we intend to direct them against the Lhusu mines, the Novastorm Alliance if we can convince them, the bandits of the Lake of Blood region, and finally send them back south convinced that the north is secure for the empire. I know not of the Novastorm Alliance, but I feel that the rest of the factions in the area don't care too much about the Empire that comes back together being the same Empire that existed before the emperor died.

I hope that this answers your question. Would you mind if I ask for your answer to the same?

As for the empire reacting poorly to news of our cooperation with a foreign power, I feel that we could justify it as being within our oaths due to the provision for defense of imperial resources. If that defense doesn't work, the point will be moot anyway, due to our interaction with the ERA.

To: The Deep Trolls [ESP-D: 4]

I apologize for the recent shortage of information. We've had three suicides among our intelligence directors this season, making it rather hard to compile information. We should have a report ready for you shortly.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

To: the Reborn Runic Shogunate [ESP-D: 3]
A young man appears on the outskirts of your land bearing a white flag, he doesn't look like a soldier at all. Red robes, shaved head and a big tattoo resembling a sun with stars on his forehead.

He bows sligthly: "I am adept Renzer, I carry words from the Novastorm Alliance"

Greetings Shogun,
I am Khorax, khola (ruler) of the Novastorm Alliance of Paradigm One. I must admit our knowledge of the Shogunate is limited to what is written in history books. We have been reclusive enough ourselves until the Emperor died.

As the Empire is now torn to shreds I am writing this letter to you to verify if your goals are compatible with ours and, maybe, estabilish trade routes in one form or the other.

You certainly have heard about the Lhusu Mines conflict between our faction and the shady Foundation.

In the spirit of starting a healthy relationship and profitable trade environment I respectfully ask you to remain neutral about our conflict with them.
We are not your enemy and have no desire to become one.

[WyvernLord]

Novastorm Alliance (ESP-D 3)
We desire technology not as much as we do teachers if there is anyway you can spare some people to help our own researchers and engineers to grow our knowledge we would thank you greatly.
ERA (ESP-D 4)
We are at this moment arranging open routes between us. We will have ways to support you soon. A man is heading north he will discuss what he can do for you when he arrives. He will have a letter of introduction.
To all
The Lowlands union is worried about the pirates and bandits preying on and around the lake of blood. Should no one object the union will bring men north to rid the lake of brigands of all sorts.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion

To Lowlands Union

We would greatly appreciate you doing so. It is good to see such proactive efforts to secure vital territories of the empire.

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army
To Lowlands Union ESP-D:4
Thank you friends, any aid would be appriciated in these times.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance

To: The Lowlands Union [ESP-D: 3]
I'm pretty sure we can find an agreement, sadly it will have to wait for the next season as our researchers are knee-deep into another project.

We will notify you as soon as they finish it.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Aksor

To the 1st Legion (DESP 2)

These are dangerous times with many people speaking lies to get everyone on their side. We have a lot of information we could share with you, although communicating them on normal channels would not be wise. Would you be willing to host my daughter for some more private talks, and perhaps the creation of a embassy to help secure communications between our two groups.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion

To House Askor

We would be willing to host your daughter, as well as maintain an embassy. When will she be arriving?

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To 1st Legion (DESP 2)

She will be arriving in a few months (when the new turn starts). We look forward to the new bond between our groups.

[oblivion6]

Beginning of turn 2

War,war and more war:
war comes to the very important Lake of Blood as for whatever reason, the legionaries and Pegasus mercenaries responsible for patrolling the region together are instead fighting eachother! the surge in violence is in turn leading to increased monster and bandit raids all over the region. rumours speak of a small force of Novastorm militia securing a foothold.

in the north, a small contigent of Novastorm militia was driven back from the Lhusu mines by a massive orc horde...

in the northeast, the massive army of Shogunate dwarves surged westward, completely decimating local warlord, prince Osric's forces. local citizens willingly join the dwarven crusade.

Sentinel Watch destroyed by peasant hordes supported by mercenaries! peasant horde is decimated in turn by house Askor mercenaries.

1st Legion surges across local legion patrolled territories into ERA territory! the fighting is vicious and both sides take heavy casualties. in the wake of 1st Legions crossing of neighboring territories, massive revolts break out and peasants and revolutionaries harry legion supply-trains.

Malarae attacked by Celdrine Revolutionaries! open-fighting breaks out in streets. The Ghosts are promising harsh retribution to both the conspiracy and the cities defenders should the fighting not stop...

Golemcraft:
Rumours abound that several of the empires major factions are experimenting on forging golems for use in their armed forces...

end of the southern revolution:
thanks to the efforts of House Askor, the most powerful merchant supporters were bought out and merged, cutting off the revolutions funding and thus their shipments of arms and other wartime necessities. due to this, widespread fighting breaks out across the south for resources. Maester Melvak is pledging to step in and end the violence...

Nirva Invasion Fleet:
in the western oceans, it is clear that the nearby Nirva island is indeed massing its fleet for amphibeous landing operations. the small imperial navy stands alone, outnumbered and outclassed in every way since the empire has long depended on Nirva island to protect it from any seaborne threats

Free-Kingdoms war:
the free kingdoms to the east of the empire are at it again...a massive army consisting of soldiers from 3 different kingdoms crossed the border as one, taking another chunk from the empire. local legions and militia's attempt to respond but the enemy army simply came too fast...stories tell of a heavilly armed knight singlehandedly slaying dozens of the imperial troops.

eyewitness accounts: several groups across the empire are releasing eyewitness accounts of the most important events of the season...

Malarae Burns
the following transcript comes from the writings of captain Winters, a local guardsmen, on the events that transpired during the battle for Malarae...

I was going through my normal routines, patrolling the southern portion of the city walls...it was dark, and the legion curfew was being enforced so i didnt really anticipate any trouble at all. figuring i had an easy watch ahead of me, i decided i would stay put for a bit so as to not look suspicious, then i would go catch up on some drinking and sleep at his favorite inn since nothing was going to happen. sleep is always a luxury for a guardsmen, and i liked getting as much of it as possible so i didnt waste my days away sleeping.

anyways, i'm getting sidetracked...if only i knew how wrong i was when i had figured i had an easy watch...i was just about to head to the inn and enjoy the pleasure of strong drink and my favorite wench, Lyanna. Lyanna was a plump brunette with full lips and a pretty face. she was the favorite of many of the bars patron, myself beng no exception, due to her ---

[at this point in the interview there is a brief argument between the captain and our chief investigator which really has no bearing on that night.]

anyways, as i was saying, i was about to ditch my watch, when all of a sudden i hear shouts coming from the direction of the gates! it was curious to hear shouting and arguing this late at night, so close to the gate, i thought. my curiousity piqued, i quickly moved closer to the gates and that is when hell broke loose. i arrived just in time to see a tall, skinny man axe a legionarie...there was more power behind that blow than i would have expected from such a skinny man...i couldnt bring myself to move and was thus forced to watch as a dozen other men quickly swarmed the pair of legion officers still remaining, while the axemen came up the stairs to the gatewench.

finally marshalling up the strength to move, i drew my sword and rushed the axemen who didnt seem to notice me, so intent was he in staring out beyond the wall. seeing him so wrapped up, i just had to look myself...and saw dozens of men marching out of the shadows...finally tearing myself free from the spectacle, i charged the man at the wench...too late!! the great iron gates swung open completely, letting in the mass of people...

i immediantly bolted, pushing the man off the wall as i passed, swearing the whole time. i saw other soldiers coming to help, and i figred there might be some hope after all, until one of the newcomers took one look at me and stabbed me with his sword...the last thing i remember before waking up in the barracks is him standing over me, a wicked grin on his face...

Charge of the 1st Legion
this interview is with a young private in the esteemed 1st legion. it was only after the interview that we realized it may contain secrets regarding the closely guarded 1st Legion fighting techniques and tactics. our interviwer now sits under the close watch of a legion commander, franticly trying to edit these secrets out before it is published. he will likely be put to death for this...

we will release this story as a standalone paper as soon as this matter is settled...

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"I propose to enact measure LL76-n."

"Seconded."

"All for? Opposed? On a vote of 13-0, the motion passes. L.E.G.I.O.N. is hereby approved by this council."

"O-5 is to begin immediate operations, then?"

"Yes."

To the First Legion, the Enlightened Revolutionary Army [ESP-D: 2, 4]

Greetings from 0-5 Command! A small force will be entering the battlespace shortly, to act as military observers and to provide humanitarian aid. We will not be joining the battle, so please don't attempt to drag us into it.

[Killerloop]

The Novastorm Alliance


Location: Paradigm One City Hall

Khorax's armoured glove smashed upon the table, scattering splinters everywhere:
"REPELLED?? Can you explain to me how the best wizards in the world failed to obliterate some ******* orcs?"

"They were too many, and had unexpectedly clever mystical support"

"Maybe I should offer them cooperation, apparently MY mystical support is on par with theirs. **** savage shamans besting Novastorm Red Wizards!!"

"Forgive us Khola, they acted.... weird. They played in total defense."

"Clever orcs on total defense. Explain, now."

"Their shamans didn't even try to cast an offensive spell, they just focused all their magic energy in dampening our efforts. And they were many more than us. By the time we broke their shield our warriors were on the brink of defeat... weirdest thing is that once they perceived that their shamans were out of commission they retreated. We killed a few, but couldn't venture much further with our warriors wounded and exhausted"

The two men looked at each other for a few moments, considering the events.

"Very well" said a more relaxed Khorax "seems the conquest of the Lhusu mines will take more than originally intended. How about the other dealings?"

"100% success"

"Good, now leave me Daedolon. I have to think on our next move"

To: The Spinning Coin Emporium [ESP-D: 3]
Our agreement profited us both, we look forward mantaining it in the next season if that pleases you.

To: The Deep Trolls [ESP-D: 3]
We encountered considerable resistance at the Lhusu Mines, can you assist? I am pretty sure that you are interested into Lhusu high-grade ore


Location: Novastorm Outpost - Lake of Blood Region

"Quickly, we have to finish the fort by night! I do not want to sleep in the open. Tiberius, deliver these messages for me and return alive if possible."

To: The Pegasus Mercenaries [ESP-D: 3]
Greetings,
I am lieutenant Karsus of the Novastorm Alliance, we came here to help into securing the Lake of Blood and we found this... mess. What's happening between you and the legions? Can we be of assistance?

To: The Imperial Legions in the Lake of Blood[ESP-D: 3]
Greetings Commander(s),
I am lieutenant Karsus of the Novastorm Alliance, loyal citizens of the Empire. We are securing a small foothold in the norther part of the Lake in an attempt to protect the trading caravans.... but what's happening? we heard of your clashes with the Pegasus mercenaries.

Can we offer assistance?

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army

The Foundation ESP-D:4
Okay. We understand.
To: the Reborn Runic Shogunate ESP-D:4
Honorable sirs, could you assist us against 1st legion? We sypathize with your goals and would help you in turn when you are in need of help. I believe that keeping us in our territories would be safer than letting 1st legion take them. 1st legion would be much less tolerant of your goals than we are. Could you send and ambassitor so we could talk in secret?
Rebels in the territory between me and 1st legion
We shall give you all the aid we can. We cannot let you suffer from the legions any longer. Once you have overthrown the legions then would you be willing to join us. In order for us to survive we must stand together or fall seperately.

[Umbranar]

The Spinning Coin Emporium

To the Nova Storm Alliance [ESP-D: 3]
We agree, more testing has to be done. Unfortunatly our client may have to withdraw due to the raging war. As we both profit from this project we may come to a new form of cooperation in both production, testing and selling the product. My son, Argus Nuggetpicker, will visit you again. I cannot provide you with an ETA, the boy does what he thinks is best and is often out of my sight.

To Great Fair Supplier
Dear contact,

We know the value of secracy and with our next order, secracy might be wise. We would like to order more parts but also regular weapons in bulk. Should you wish to discuss the details, I can send an agent in my stead. You are ofcourse welcome to discuss this with me directly, you know the place after all.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Aksor

Tallius was getting a drink with some of his men and survivors of the peasant rebellion. It had taken an entire day to slaughter enough of the lowlifes to get them to retreat, but with how many peasant bodies were littering the field, Tallius doubted they would be a problem again.

His father would be very proud of his accomplishment. Undobtedly, his brother took over the merchants that funded the rebellion, which would hopefully put an end to this entire mess in the south for the time being. Many doubted the strength of the empire since the emporers death, and this battle should put those fears to rest.

To First Legion (PM)

Bella arrives at the Legions Headquarters, wearing peasant like clothes. A few moments later your realize they were just worn to deter bandits, as she has brought a few trunks of dresses and clothes to wear during the visit. As she does a courtsey to the escorts she requests a private meeting.


To Maester Melvak (DESP 4)

Maester Melvak,

As you know, the pesant uprising has been put down. The Southern Legion is looking into the cause of the rebellion, and there is some evidence you were involved. We would like for you to come in for questioning. We understand you have a lot of swing with the common folk, so we are keeping this as descrete as possible for your convenience.

- Tallius Askor, Commander of the Southern Legion


To Imperial navy Commander (near Nirva) (DESP 4)

Commander,

If Nirva decides to invade the empire, we ask that you not needlessly through away your lives. We are going to start construction of a navy to come to your assistance, but it may be months away from completion. We ask that you not attack their navy directly, but use guerrilla tactics until we can arrive to aid you.

-Sir Jancor Askor


To GM (PM)

Who controls the other regions in the south? I know the spinning coin and the other rebellion, but there are about 2 territories that are unclaimed.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls

To the Novastorm Alliance
We are currently working on something that could help. However, it still requires just a bit more work.
OOC; We got something, but it requires justa few more stat points.

[Umbranar]

The Spinning Coin Emporium

To Auron
Greetings Esteemed Warrior,

I have heard about your accomplishments and your return. The lake of blood seems to be a mess now but I have a business proposal. I do not know your personal view of the Empire and it might be dangerous to pubicly express this opinion. If you`d like I can come to you pesonally to discuss matters.

Roonwicket Nuggetpicker, Overseer of the Spinning Coin Emporium

[Nemesis67]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
D. Esp: 4

To the Warlords of the North (D. Esp 2)
"The 1st Legion pushes the ERA close to its breaking point. While I understand if all of you choose to not fight in this, I request passage through the seas you control to this battleground. I will not allow those Imperial jackals a foothold close enough to strike at our province.

-Shogun Osric"

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"You realize that this will mean entering a war for which we are not yet prepared, correct?"

"Yes. It is a bit of a gamble. It is rather stacked in our favor, however."

"Very well, then. This Council has decided."

"And the Foundation shall act. Inform 0-5."

To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [ESP-D: 4]

Another messenger appears, bearing a letter.

The High Council has come to a decision.

The Empire is not capable of discharging its duties. If allowing the First Legion to run rampant over these lands is the solution which it seeks to implement, then I fear that there will be little left for it to defend if it should become capable of discharging its duties once more.

As such, we have decided to act. Your armies and their supply chains will be received at our ports, and will be permitted to pass through our territory, to engage the first legion. We do not yet have sufficient forces to support in any significant capacity. We do, however, have reserves of equipment and a talented officer corps, which will be made available for the duration of the battle.

After the letter is read and a response formulated, the messenger speaks.
"On a less urgent note, what are your views on an agreement of free trade, and a defensive pact?"

[oblivion6]

Northern Warlords to Reborn Shogunate
total you have about 4 MIL and 1 WEL worth of contributions to aid the ERA

Auron to Emporium[PM]
a pretty blonde half-elf dressed in clothes of the finest silk arrives at your office. though she arrives completely alone and seemingly unarmed, and clearly notices the lewd smiles some of your people toss her way, she appears quite calm and uncaring as if she knew how to take care of herself. she hands a message to a soldiers. it reads

i have recieved your message and have dispatched my finest young apprentice, Lelei to meet with you. she is a half-elf and since they are rare here in the empire you cannot miss her.

P.S: i warn you...do not get any funny idea's regarding her. she is quite capable herself and should anything happen to her it will be your head i personally take...

Great-Fair supplier to Emporium
i am currently about to leave for Nirva Island on business so i can not meet with you personally. however, in hopes of grooming her to take care of my empire when i'm gone, i will instruct my daughter, Luserina, to meet with you when she has time. she is still new to business but she has an eye for details and a keen mind so she should do fine.

Maester Melvak to House Askor[PM]
its not long before a large company of gold armored knights arrives at your capital. they are led by an enormously fat man riding in a carriage pulled by a team of knights.

Maester Melvak to speak with leader of House Askor! one of the knights shouted.

Mercs/Legions to Novastorm Alliance
Legion claims that several of his caravans were raided by Pegasus mercenaries.

Mercenaries in turn claim legionaries stormed their camps. in other words, its a total mess...

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

Meeting with Maester Melvak (PM)

Sir Jancor comes out to greet the guests.

Please come in. There is a stable around back for your horses, we will make sure they all get fed. Hopefully we can get these problems straightened out quickly.

As they go inside, Sir Jancor leads them to a large room with a large table.

The main reason for asking you to come this distance, involves the rebellion that was put down in the south recently. We would like to ask you personally if you had a hand in it? Many, perhaps even most, of the rebels had religious symbols that belong to your following.


To the Foundation (desp 4)

We believe some anti empire forces are spying on our communications. We would like to create an embassy to help secure our communications with you.


To the Novastorm Alliance (desp 4)

We believe some anti empire forces are spying on our communications. We would like to create an embassy to help secure our communications with you.


To Lowlands Union (desp 4)

We believe some anti empire forces are spying on our communications. We would like to create an embassy to help secure our communications with you.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"The first stage is set. It is time to begin stage two."

"Indeed. Our die has been cast. Let us make the game such that no result is negative."

To: Royal House Askor [ESP-D 4]

I suspect that you are quite correct. I'd go so far as to guess that both major anti-imperial factions in our region have that capability.

We will gladly welcome the construction of an embassy to facilitate secure communications.

[Nemesis67]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Def. Esp: 4

To the Foundation(Def Esp 4)
Thank you for your assistance. I would welcome a free trade agreement with the Foundation, but I am unwilling to enter into a military agreement as hastily. We dwarves take our oaths rather seriously, so I shall reserve such judgement until I know the nature of your organization better. However, due to your aid to ourselves and the ERA, we would sooner side with you than another.

-Shogun Osric

To the ERA (Def Esp 4)
The Shogunate will fight alongside you, with some aid from my neighboring warlords. I have no intention of allowing the 1st Legion jackals to prevail in this conflict.

-Shogun Osric

To the Novastorm Alliance (Def Esp 4)
My intentions are to re-establish the Shogunate across this continent that your Empire stole from us. But many years have passed since the Rhunic ruled here. My race is no longer the only one of these lands, and the world is much smaller than it was before. The Shogunate I build will not be the one of my father.

I simply seek a stable peace. But this fractured land must be repaired and made whole once more for such an age to come to pass. As the Empire has split and is squabbling amongst itself for power, and warlords and foreigners tear chunks of land for themselves, I am here to gather all the pieces.

-Shogun Osric

To the Deep Trolls (Def Esp 4)
Greetings to the Ironborn,

It has been many years since I have seen one of your kind. I hope the Empire treated you well in their centuries of occupation?

-Shogun Osric

OOC: He is slightly bitter you didn't help the Shogunate fight. But the past is the past...

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deep Trolls

To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate

Greetings Shogun,

To be honest, because we never drew attention to ourselves, we were ignored. However, as times wheel turns, we belive now is the time. After all, would you fight when the beast is young and full of rage? Or would you let time dull it's senses? Both of our kindreds know the value of patientce.

And, as for what help we can provide? We will discuss it in the safety of our halls.

With respect,
Thane Torvaag

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: The Deep Trolls [ESP-D: 4]

My apologies for the lack of reports thus far.

The situation between the First Legion and the ERA has brought numerous provinces into revolt. Fighting is occurring openly. Within the imperial city, the Celdrine Conspiracy is facing similar issues. From the west, the Dwarves are returning. We've had no reliable word from the east or the south.

To prevent such lapses of information in the future, I have authorized the copying of documents generated by our network. They aren't too extensive, but they should help you to understand what is going on.

[Access granted to all messages of EPS-D: 3 or less.]


To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [ESP-D: 4]

The messenger bows deeply.

"I shall carry your words back to the council. Once you have entered the battlespace, you'll find some of our forces rendering aid to the wounded and the defenseless. Contact them, and they will put your forces into contact with our central command structure, designation O-5, which should be able to aid your forces in maintaining battlefield awareness and assist with coordination between you and your allies. From there, you'll be joined by a few of our prototype automata, which will aid you in the combat.

I look forward to working with you in the future, Shogun Osric."

Apparently satisfied with the state of the negotiations, the messenger takes his leave.

[GnomeGninjas]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [ESP-D: 4]
Thank you. We are glad that you are opposed to the empire and are incriedebly thankful for all the help you can provide.

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deep Hold of Froshaad
"So, the Engineers estimate that the Factories will be back at full production in six months, and that we can devote current production to the special equipment. Combined with the recruiting, training and encouragement, we expect to see steady progress in the various fields."

"So, how long before deployment to the mines?"

"Regretably, a full year. This is to fully intergrate the equipment, and build addtional squads for deployment. But the wheels have already begun turning."

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 3

Battle on the High Sea In the imperial waters, just 15 miles off the coast, the formidable fleet of Nirva island called for the surrender of the corrupt imperial navy, who foolishly refused. As was expected, the battle was short and one-sided with the Nirva battle-cruisers, fast, and armed to the teeth with their new rune-cannons, completely destroying the imperial fleet. House Askor, in the south, has instituted a massive ship-building operation in hopes of repelling the Nirva invasion fleet which now sits anchored off the coast. They have stated that their intention is to support the true imperial goverment and that ending the imperial navy was necessary, since it was full of rich captains and admirals who knew nothing about politics or military tactics and were loyal to only themselves.

ERA-Legion War Yet again, the 1st Legion continues its attacks against the ERA, causing untold death and destruction, even conscripting the local populace. However, their success would not last, for soon, a massive army of dwarves and northern warlords charged the startled Legions rear and flanks, routing the legion. After everything was said and done, it is reported that soldiers belonging to the Foundation have entered the region in order to conduct humanitarian aid. They dont have much success of course, but its the thought that counts after all.

Behind the lines, in the territories between the ERA and the actual 1st Legion holdings, hundreds of rebels and peasant militia-men are rising up against the local legions, trained and equipped by an outside source. Already several major legion forts and supply-depots have been seized. Legion commanders are calling for more support in order to put down the rebels.

Malarae in Chaos Despite the warnings of the Ghosts, the empire's very own order of spies and assassins, fighting continues in the imperial capital between the civic militia's and the Celdrine Conspiracy. The Ghosts, having warned against the fighting, takes matters into its own hands...Several very important leaders on both sides of the fighting have been taken down by their assassination teams. Pulling a few strings, numerous central legions have moved in and put the city under martial-law.

the March of House Askor In the south, the formidable army of House Askor has been seen expanding their borders, taking advantage of the chaos left in the wake of the revolution.

Golem-craft Entire units of stone-golems have been seen amongst the armies of the Foundation and the defensive units of the Spinning-coin emporium.

Imperial Council Several imperial politicians have called for a meeting of all pro-imperial factions in Malarae. The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss how to best bring peace to the empire, such as economic and military policies. No one holds much faith in this though.

[NM020110]

O-5 Command
ESP-D: 4

"The conflict has reached its conclusion."

"Excellent. This concludes stage one."

"Our plans for stage two have already been laid. Let us begin."


To: The Deep Trolls [4]

We understand that you are interested in the ores from the Lhusu mines. We intend to begin operations in earnest to take said mines back from the orcs which presently hold them soon.

We'll be glad to provide some of the ore from the mines once we can get to it, though we suspect that the mines are rather firmly held. If you happen to have anything that could help, we would love to see some friendly faces on the battlefield.



To: The Contract [3]

We have been tasked with taking the Lhusu mines, and are authorized to seek out allies for the effort. It is our understanding that you represent a rather large company of mercenaries, and as such may be interested in joining this conflict in exchange for compensation.

If this would indeed interest you, then let us come together to discuss force levels and the appropriate compensation.



To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [4]

We have been tasked with taking the Lhusu mines, and are authorized to seek out allies for the effort. We would be interested in knowing if we could potentially hire forces from you, to aid in our assault.

We would be willing to provide you with knowledge of golem craft in exchange.



To: ERA [4]

Congratulations on repelling the forces of the First Legion. Unless you object, we'll be sending in additional men to deliver humanitarian aid to those yet lacking food and shelter.

If you could assist in coordinating efforts, I am certain that many would appreciate it.



To: The First Legion [2]

If you have any forces still in the area, they may seek refuge in our territory.



To: Everyone [0]
OOC: Yes, I mean everyone. NPCs, and PCs alike.

First generation wood golems are available for purchase at this time. Manufacturing schematics are priced at [2 wealth].

Second generation wood golems are also available for purchase. These are priced at [4 wealth].

Third generation wood golems may be purchased for [6 wealth].

Finally, first generation stone golems are available for purchase. These are the bleeding edge of golemcraft, available for [8 wealth].

These golems carry no restrictions upon their use, and will serve you well in military matters. We just ask that you buy from us.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls to the Foundation
We currently have something in the works, but it will take a bit of time to implement.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

In a somber ceremony held within the conquered lands previously presided over by Warlord Osric in the north-east, the former Shogun Osric is crowned as the Emperor of the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate by the Kalna Amgarrak, a sacred order of lorekeepers stretching their history back to the days before the formation of the original Shogunate. With the return of the Madhammer war fleets from abroad to their homeland, the dwarvish clans must reunite to rebuild the nation that was stolen from them. Daimyo Madhammer is declared the new Shogun and made official commander of the military forces of Rhun, by the decree of Emperor Osric.

To the Deep Trolls (5)
Would it be possible for the two of us to make an agreement where I would trade temp Eco or loan my military forces in exchange for utilizing your research capabilities? Or for buying blueprints off of you? The forced disarmament of the Dwarves by the former Empire has placed us in the position of lacking a technical arm of the Shogunate.

-Emperor Osric

To the Foundation (4)
Are you selling the designs or the actual units of golems? I do not have access to the magic necessary to construct them if the former. Would it be possible to hire some of your mages for this purpose?

-Emperor Osric

To the ERA (4)
I am glad the two of us, with some aid from my neighboring warlords and the Foundation, drove back the 1st Legion. Do you have an estimate of how long it will take you to rebuild your strength? I fear that the Imperial powers will rally together to strike down your movement. You establish a dangerous precedent. They can't have their citizens making decisions on their own, after all. It takes away all of that power from those in Malarae.

-Emperor Osric

[GnomeGninjas]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We are incredibly thankful for your assistance. I do not know how long it will take to rebuild our strength, perhaps the rebels in the middle territories will join us? I think that we should work together to eliminate 1st legion, they are a symbol of imperial might and they may recover to attack us more, if we can defeat them them then the imperial alliance against us would be much weaker.

Foundation
We would appreciate humanitarian aid.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: The Deep Trolls [4]

It's the same case here. Would [next turn] work?

Also, do you happen to have any technologies available for purchase?


To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [4]

We are selling schematics at this time, as the golems themselves are being used for humanitarian aid. Our alchemists are available for hire.

On an unrelated note, have you given more thought to a defensive pact?


To: The ERA [4]

Very well, then. Our forces will move to deliver it.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We would be honored to assist you. All that we have is currently commited to getting everything back online, but we should be ready to assist you at the turn of the year.

Deep Trolls to the Foundation
Yes, next turn would work.

As for the sale of current technologies, well, the one we have could use more work.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To the Foundation (4)
I have. A defensive alliance between our two powers would be prudent. If you are willing, including the ERA as well. Due to the proximity of our lands, we share similar interests in keeping any violent factions away from ourselves, and to prevent any ill will between us by providing a platform for communication.

As for the Lhusa mine matter, how many forces are you asking us for? I would be willing to loan soldiers in exchange for the golemcraft. Ideally the best designs you have, and the Shogunate will deploy an appropriate number of troops in exchange, provided we are still capable of undertaking our planned operations.

-Emperor Osric

To the Deep Trolls (5)
I am glad to hear it. We will contact you again next season then, once you have completed your current projects.

-Emperor Osric

To the ERA (4)
I will not be pursuing the 1st Legion unless they show hostile intent to either myself or a friendly power. I do not wish to give a reason to the Central Legions and other remnants of the Empire to rally together in support of the jackals and in opposition of the Shogunate, nor do I wish to overextend my own reach. We have more pressing matters closer to home to deal with first.

But for the sake of preventing further aggression against yourself, we are willing to offer a treaty creating a defensive military alliance between the two of us. That should serve as enough of a deterrence to prevent any future violence for a few seasons, at the least. Until the Imperials have settled some of their differences. It would be prudent to include the Foundation in this pact as well, but you already know as much from my message to them.

-Emperor Osric

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate

We're still working on getting our initial production run of the stone golem prototypes completed. It should be done by [EOT]. The Deep Trolls say that they have something in the works as well, which should be completed on the same time frame. To allow for the attack to be coordinated between all participants, we'll be attacking [next turn].

As compensation, we will provide you with the schematic for first generation stone golems. In return, we'd like as many forces as you can spare for the effort to oust the orcs from the mines.


As to the defensive pact, we have no objection to the inclusion of the ERA. We are interested in the exact terms of the pact, however.



To: The Deep Trolls [4]

Very well. Please let us know when you're satisfied with the state of your project.


To: The ERA [4]

Though you likely already know this, there has been discussion regarding a defensive pact between you, the Shougunate, and us. Would you be interested in this pact?

[Umbranar]

Spinning Coin Emporium

To the ERA (D-esp 6 or ERA D-ESP)
We have finished the designs of our constructs but we might face an enemy ourselves soon. We also have the weapons you asked for but did not see any compensation. Without a response we keep the goods.

Public Announcement
Golems are the soldiers of the feature, they do not ask for food or rest. They know no fear and are easy to control. The Spinning Coin Emporium sells these stone beauties for the best price!

[GnomeGninjas]

Spinning Coin Emporium ESP-D 5
Who is the enemy that you shall fight?
In my quick topic I said that I give you ++ wealth. I'm not sure what happened. Maybe since I lost + wealth in the fighting it didn't work?

The Foundation ESP-D 4
We would be glad of a mutual defense agreement.

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate ESP-D 4
We understand your unwillingness to assail 1st legion further. We would like a mutual defense agreement.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To 1st Legion (PM)

How badly did the battle go. We can spare some wealth your way, and we are debating on purchasing golems if we can get the price down.


To the Foundation (DESP 4)

We are interested in purchasing golems from you. How much MIL of golems do we get with the second generation (4 WEL)?

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4


To: Royal House Askor [4]

We're selling the golem schematics. For wood golems, we interleaved them with normal forces to limit exploitation of their weakness to fire. This increased each unit's effective combat strength significantly.

OOC: Oblivion6 has not been too forthcoming on the actual effects of the golems, simply stating "[golem experiments I] gives a bonus to die rolls in battle since it represents golems being part of other units."


To: ERA [4]

I am glad that we are in agreement.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To the Foundation (DESP 4)

I see. Were not sure how useful just the schematics would be. While it does make financial sense in the long run to buy the schematics then build the golems ourselves we are interested in purchasing already constructed golems. Would you be interested in building some for us?


To the Lowlands Union (DESP 4)

Since the defeat of the imperial navy, we believe Nirva may be heading inland soon. The southern legions will be coming to your aid as soon as the last of the southern cults are dealt with. Hopefully that will be very soon.


Imperial Council

Regius Askor attends the council wearing expensive royal garb, with a gold pendant of the Askor seal. He imagines few will be coming to the meeting since the 1st's recent defeat, but everything that can be done must be done to insure the empire endures this time of troubles.

When the meeting is started, Regius takes no time waiting to try to take control of the council

The empire is currently in a two front war. In the east the Nirva have begun their invasion, and in the north the Shogunate has attacked imperial lands. The South will be in stable imperial control once the last of the cults is defeated, then we shall march on Nirva. We are of the opinion that the 1st imperial legion should take some time to secure the central provinces and obsorb the other legions. If the legions stay separated than the shogunate will be able to destroy them piecemeal. They need to be combind into one army that can march north and hold the enemies at bay.

[oblivion6]

OOC update

[Will do an actual IC Update later]

Foundation/House Askor
The golem experiments do not grant any bonus to MIL unless you actually spend wealth on mass-producing the golems. Otherwise its just a bonus to die rolls.

@Herbie: Think of it as sort of like the Blackpowder Weapons stuff in Broken City.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"An imperial council has convened."

"I shall go. The Foundation shall be represented."

To: Royal House Askor [4]

I'm afraid that we're in the middle of a build-up for an effort to clear out an orc infestation that is festering in our mines. We'll be needing all of our forces for that push.

We could send stone golems on a temporary basis, if you need them immediately. The price for this would be [2.5 wealth] per dozen.

Following this push, we should have a plentiful supply of golems available for sale.



Imperial Council

A rather unremarkable person in white robes attends, bearing no ornament. The hood appears to have a black cloth of some sort hanging down, as the face of the representative is completely shrouded in shadow.

"I have come to represent the north. I would propose an alternative course of action.

The Shogunate and the ERA presently consider themselves to be outside the Empire. Let them believe this. You stated that the south is nearly under control. I say that the Empire should use that to consolidate its power, leaving the north be. If the Empire should over-extend itself at this stage, then I fear that other forces may seek to break it.

As such, I feel that the Empire would be best served were the First Legion to pull back to the central legions, and bring them under control by absorbing the local legions, as you said. From there, I propose that they seek to defend the central lands and contain the spread of the Shogunate and the ERA.

The remainder of the Imperial Forces should move to contain the Nirvan invasion. Once this threat is ended, consolidate forces and march north. Let us not face our strongest enemies when we are weak, but when we, too, are strong."

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deep Trolls

Imperial Council (Arrival fluff, not at the meeting yet)

For the first time in Five Hundred years, a Troll arrives at the Imperial city. He was here before, though all execpt maybe a elf or dwarf would still be alive. Even as he moves through the streets, and the people look at him, he pays them no mind. To him, they will last no longer then the leaves on the trees in the short gap between autum and winter, a breath, a blinking of a eye. It is with this calm detachment that he reaches the Council building, and calmly annonces himself as Sage Vulstos, and the Deep Trolls representitive.

For a day or more, the Council staff are in a flurry, trying to figure out what the blazes was a Deep Troll in the first place. Sage Vulstos refered them to a treaty he signed "Not so long ago, as we reckon it." They found the Treaty of the Deepholds, the only offical document relating to the Trolls, a ancient document signed when the Deep Trolls joined the empire 2000 years ago. Using magic to verify if it was genuine, and that in fact the sage on the document was the same...

They let him in.

Imperial Council (At the meeting)

The Troll just sits behind the representitive from the Foundation, and listens. Simple in apprence, he is also, almost to calm, and detached.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To the Foundation (DESP 4)

That seems like an acceptable deal. Some of our men will be by to pick the golems up and to learn how to use them.



The council

As the troll walks into the room, Regius gets a disgusted look on his face.

What is this creature! It belongs with the horses, not in this chamber! What ignorant noble sent their failed magical experiment in their stead?
One of Regius' assistants whipsers in his hear, leading to a more astonished look on Regius' face as he quickly walks out to examine the Treaty of the Deepholds. A few minutes later he walks back in slowly with an embarrased look on his face, and walks to the troll.

I would like to apologize, I did not realize your species existed and were a part of the empire. It takes a lot to go unnoticed by House Askor, and your kind has done so very well. He sits down, and seems off guard for a while.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: Royal House Askor [4]

Very well. How many golems would you like prepared for pick-up? We have thirty-six available for use.


Imperial Council

The representative from the Foundation merely observes the situation, the uniform hiding any expressions.

[Grimsage Matt]

Imperial Council
As the nobleman first insults him, then apologizes, his expression does not change. Though of course, if any were reading his mind, they would come across something strange. He did not care what Regius had said, reguarding it as of no importantce.

"An Imperial Council was called, and as the throne is empty, the Thane wishes to have a troll see what is going on. Don't like being called away from my lab twice in a short time to come here, but." He seems to shrug.

"In anycase, the Shogunate will stop when they reach their old borders. As for the invanders? They're like adventuers. Let one in, and you either have to join them, or blow them all to hell."

[Nemesis67]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To the Imperial Council:
With the room's attention focused on the Sage, a man sitting among the Imperial scribes who are recording the meeting gathers his transcriptions into a pile and rises. Gossiping whispers can be heard among the rest of his peers as they discuss his fate, but swiftly transform into confusion. No one knew his name or had even seen him before... As if to add to the oddity of the scene, the great doors open to reveal an ancient dwarf, garbed in robes inscribed with the runes of the old Shogunate. Runes long since forbidden by this same Council, all of those years ago. A pair of heavily armored and ornamented Rhunic soldiers flank him, glaring at the Imperial guards, while keeping their own weapons within reach. The supposed scribe hands off the stack of papers to the diplomat, then promptly leaves the chamber while the guards are focused on the dwarven delegation.

Addressing the room, the ambassador states, "I am here to represent the interests of the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate and to properly elucidate our actions in these past seasons."

Some of the Council members can recognize the envoy, identifying him as Daimyo Slate. Prior to the arrival of Clan Madhammer, he was the head of one of the most powerful dwarven merchant clans of the former Empire, second only to the Kundaraks. As he scans the notes he holds, his expression hardens. Still flitting through the pages, the graying dwarf casually remarks to Sage Vulstos, "And those old borders stretched across this continent from ocean to ocean, as you should remember, Ironborn. You lived through my race's first Shogunate. Before its razing by the predecessors to the other people in this room."

After a minute or so of scanning through the papers, Slate looks up towards the Imperial guards, who reluctantly direct him to an empty seat on the far side of the room from the other representatives. Once he has situated himself, he clears his throat and begins to speak.

While there are some things I had wished to discuss, I feel addressing House Askor's slander as to my nation's actions is more important. What he has claimed, that the Shogunate has attacked Imperial lands, is simply false.

We have attacked no Imperial territories. We have harmed no Imperial civilians. We have initiated no hostilities toward any faction in this room. Everything the Shogunate has done since our arrival on the continent has been for the sake of securing peace. Clan Madhammer and our former Shogun arrived, docking at my clan's and Clan Kundarak's forgeholds, lands legally owned by the dwarven race, as granted to us during the Treaty of Khaz Mordun, and what did we proceed to do? Depose an illegitimate warlord in the northwest that had used the chaos all of you have aided in spreading to seize power for himself and protect innocent people from the 1st Legion jackals that you let off the leash in order to put down a movement that simply seeks the own self determination all of you are ruthlessly pursuing.

And in the meantime what have the great Imperials, the unstoppable power that managed to take this entire continent under their sole control those centuries ago, done? Your Emperor's former assassins have massacred the Celdrine bureaucrats and Malarae's civic guards. House Askor allowed the Imperial Navy to be sunk by foreign invaders to 'eliminate their corruption'. Novastorm and the Foundation nearly came to war over the Lhusa mines that the Empire has lost control of, and the Alliance broke itself apart due to it. You are allowing chaos to spread because your focus in on expanding your own power instead of keeping the peace. Both Nirva and the Free Kingdoms are invading your central provinces and you are worried about the Shogunate, who has taken no actions against you? I am baffled as to how you drove us out of our homeland to begin with."

[Grimsage Matt]

Imperial Council

The sage nods at the dwarves words, and listens quietly.

"In many respects, true. In others, the trolls have always known that it is better to endure, and not to fight the rising winds. And yes, you ruled the surface. Never did our kindreds dispute that. However, I belive you would find it difficult to breathe in Khazam Kcheor.

But, the past must stand as it is, for good or for ill, the furture lies ahead, only faint echos in the stone. The present, we must now shape. We told the first Shougunate to put aside their pride for a time, and wait for a better time to strike. You did so, only after challanging the rising storm.

And now we come to the present, where the past seem to become the future once more, as the cycles turn apon themselves. Both of our kindreds have little love for the empire, though ours stems from apathy, yours anger, but with the wind howling at the door?

Kill the Wyrm outside the hold before dealing with the drunks inside. Together, let us take care of those who would enslave all of us AGAIN, before stabing our reluctent and gruding allies in the back."

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To the Fundation

Can we purchase 14 for 3 t.WEL?

OOC: I believe your getting the better part of the deal, I just don't want to deal with half WEL.


Imperial Council

Regius Stands. This was an enemy he knew about and could debate. Hopefully it would let people forget his previous exchange with the troll
This was supposed to be a disscussion between leaders in the imperial territory, not foreigners like yourself. You could have tried diplomacy, but instead jumped into a battle for the side opposing the empire. You never asked the imperials for our side of the problems. That is why you are an enemy. If you wish peace you should open talks before using force.

We should not let this outsider intimidate us. We are still a strong empire and will recover what has been lost. The western navy loss was a harsh one, but we will counteract them in time. I believe the foundation is correct, the 1st legion needs to withdraw from the north to recover and stablize the central region until they are back up to fighting strength. Meanwhile we ask that the foundation and other northern factions work against the shogunate in a more "shadow" function to keep them from gaining power in imperial lands.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To the Foundation, ERA (4)
So we are all in agreement that a mutual protection pact would be beneficial to all of us? We should draft a document stating the exact terms of this agreement.

Imperial Council
"A navy that you allowed to be lost because they were not under your control. And the Shogunate joined the battle between the 1st Legion and the ERA because we will not stand by as civilians are targeted in a war. All we did was aid in the people's defense, nothing more. Why would we consult the Imperials on this matter when one of your own is doing the killing? Your position seems rather obvious. A few of you worked to open the warpath through the other central legions, even as the people in those lands protested such an action. And it's not as if you all are of the same opinion. The Celdrine conspirators were willing to allow the ERA to remain, but the Ghosts murdered them and the garrison of your former capital. You have no unified organization to open talks with.

We would have been willing to negotiate, but the 1st Legion does not listen to reason. They initiated no contact with the ERA, instead they began to set up the logistics for an invasion. The first messenger from ERA was beheaded. None of you present were willing or able to convince them of another course of action, so the Shogunate took matters into our own hands, for the sake of the safety of the public."

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

"It is ready, then?"

"Yes. Inform our representative on the Council."

"Very well."

Imperial Council

Rising, the representative poses a question to Regius, maintaining a studiously neutral, almost monotone voice.

"In making this request, you acknowledge the Shogunate's claim to be separate from the Empire. Is this what you wish?"

A wooden golem enters, bearing a message for the representative, who sits down to read.


To: Royal House Askor [4]

The golems will await you at the docks. Thank you for doing business with us.

OOC: Not dealing with .5 wealth. Price: .5 wealth.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Legion

To House Askor [PM]

the battle went exceedingly badly. we lost over half of the legion. We will be withdrawing and attempting to put down the rebels and unify the legions to bolster our ranks. the ERA/Shognate will have to be put off till later, or until more factions are willing to join in the assault.


To Imperial Council

General Octavious stands, having observed the proceedings until now.
given the abject failure of our attempt to claim the northern lands I propose that a truce be struck with the shoganate and the ERA, at least until such a time as we have gotten rid of the rest of the invaders. If they do not advance their borders further then we have no reason to fight a two front war. Let us deal with the foreigners before dealing with them.

As to the plan to withdraw, we will do so and attempt to unify the central legions to our cause in order to bolster our numbers.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To the Imperial Council
OOC: Waiting on Herbie's answer to NM before I reply IC.

To the Foundation (4)
Addressed directly to you for the sake of preventing irrelevant gossip as to your association with the ERA during this council meeting, though it will not prevent powers with significant spies to read this, as I suspect House Askor is most likely capable of. I believe the ERA has the contacts necessary to read this as well, but I will be sending them a copy individually.

Stipulations of the Protection Pact:
1) Right of Passage: Every member nation grants movement through their lands to all other members, provided they are informed of the move and of the intended target. This is to avoid a power from unintentionally aligning themselves against the target of the strike.

2) Land Claims: By signing this Pact, the member powers acknowledge the following claims, in addition to acknowledging the current lands controlled by the signatories:
The Foundation has legal right to the Lhusa Mines.
The Shogunate has legal rights to the Western Woods and the Western Isles.

3) Protection of Members: If a non-member power attacks a member, every signer of this pact must declare war on the aggressor. Military aid is to be sent to assist with defensive operations. This section does not apply to offensive wars begun by members, making military aid to an invasion optional.

Any desired amendments or alterations?
-Emperor Osric

To the ERA (4)
Our current draft for the mutual protection pact is within the message to the Foundation. Do you have any alterations or additions you would like to see?

And on an unrelated note, are you the one supplying the Central Province's civilians with arms and training? If not, it may be prudent to find out who is doing so. I would not be surprised if it turns out to be House Askor preparing for their eventual annexation of the lands...

-Emperor Osric

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [4]

The Council would propose one alteration, and two additional terms.

3) Protection of Members: If a power attacks a member, every signer of this pact must declare war on the aggressor. Military aid is to be sent to assist with defensive operations. This section does not apply to offensive wars begun by members, making military aid to an invasion optional.

4) Boilerplate: This pact may be offered in full and without alteration to any non-member power. Upon confirmation by a supermajority vote among those bound by this pact, the prospective member will, provided that they agree, be bound and protected by this pact.

5) Amendment: An amendment may be proposed at any time by any member. Upon confirmation by unanimous vote, the pact shall be amended as proposed.

We are willing to negotiate on these, but it is the Council's belief that these terms will be to the benefit of all members.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To the Foundation (4)
I agree with the new additions, however I would modify the vote required to add a new member to need unanimous support. It is not a trivial matter and should require complete agreement of the current members, like the vote for amendments.

-Emperor Osric

[GnomeGninjas]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [4]
We are the ones helping the rebels. It is unknown if other parties are as well. We support the pact with the Foundation modifications.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate

The High Council has spoken. It is, and shall be so.

I believe that we need merely await the ERA's response, now.



The Imperial Council

The representative finishes reading the report, and pens a short note in response. The messenger golem takes the note, and leaves, leaving the representative to focus once more on Regius, awaiting a response.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To the Foundation (4)
OOC: I am unsure if your response means you will not modify the agreement, or if you accept my editing. ERA has accepted the pact with your modifications.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [4]

OOC: With your correction.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To the Foundation (4)
So then the following terms have been agreed upon by all three parties (unless the ERA disagrees with having new members requiring a unanimous vote). Will this agreement be public knowledge? Or will it be solely known by us, and whoever can spy on our negotiations?

Stipulations of the Protection Pact:
1) Right of Passage: Every member nation grants movement through their lands to all other members, provided they are informed of the move and of the intended target. This is to avoid a power from unintentionally aligning themselves against the target of the strike.

2) Land Claims: By signing this Pact, the member powers acknowledge the following claims, in addition to acknowledging the current lands controlled by the signatories:
The Foundation has legal right to the Lhusa Mines.
The Shogunate has legal rights to the Western Woods and the Western Isles.

3) Protection of Members: If a power attacks a member, every signer of this pact must declare war on the aggressor. Military aid is to be sent to assist with defensive operations. This section does not apply to offensive wars begun by members, making military aid to an invasion optional.

4) Boilerplate: This pact may be offered in full and without alteration to any non-member power. Upon confirmation by unanimous vote among those bound by this pact, the prospective member will, provided that they agree, be bound and protected by this pact.

5) Amendment: An amendment may be proposed at any time by any member. Upon confirmation by unanimous vote, the pact shall be amended as proposed.


To the ERA (4)
Do you approve of the final form of the agreement, and do you have a preference as to whether it will be public knowledge or not?

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4


To: The Reforged Rhunic Shogunate [4]

Those who have networks sufficient to know of this agreement already know. Release or not will make no difference to them.

For those who do not already know of this agreement, we have the potential to gain by keeping this agreement hidden, such that we will be underestimated.

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA ESP-D: 5

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate:5We accept the agreement. We would prefer it not be public knowledge.

[HerbieRAI]

royal house askor

Imperial council

If the first legion wishes peace we will follow their lead. House askor is not a war
monger. We would like to state for the shogunate that we asked the navy to do hit and run attacks because the navy we are constructing would not ber ready in time.


To first legion (pm)

Expect a 4 wel donation from house askor to help rebuild your forces.

[oblivion6]

Imperial
Once there is a bit of a pause in the debate, there is a small scuffle over in the corner that the legion commanders had chosen for themselves. After the scuffle ends, a tall man steps up and clears his throat. You recognize the man as general Atesca, overall commander of the central legions army group, which originally consisted of the 4th, 5th, 29th and 41st legions but had consolidated into just the 4th and 29th legions, due to lack of manpower in the wake of the central rebellions. The fact that he is here, attests to the rumours that the war was not going well for them, since normally, Atesca was widely known as a practical man who said politics was for the weak and he generally disregarded such meetings. Excuse me my dear lords and ladies of the council he said I have nothing but respect for General Octavious and the 1st Legion, but I do not agree with the proposal that the central legions merge with them. Granted, both my legions and the 1st Legion are currently understaffed, being nothing more than an auxillary really, but the current situation demands that we stay seperate. My job is to reassert dominance in the central lands while his is to protect our western border. Instead, I propose we send waves of replacements to both of us. The southern situation has stabilized thanks to House Askor and the legions stationed there could be reorganized as auxillery forces with most of the excess veterans being transferred to he front.

Inevitably, after one person had chosen to spoke up in protest, it created an avalanche and dozens of voices began arguing back and forth over many issues. The loudest of these protests is the voice of an elderly politician, legislator Earlgon, who had served the imperial goverment during the reign of two emperors. While I agree that this infighting and invading armies from the west be stopped, some of you are proposing that we fight Nirva instead...The imperial dynasty and the Nirva Island ruling family have maintained close relationships since I was just a wee lad. Hell, the best friend of our late emperors very own daughter, may the Goddess watch over her, was the daughter of Admiral Tarl, ruler of Nirva Island. They are honorable men and I cannot see that they would invade us now of all times without issuing any formal complaints or anything of the sort. If they say the 'Grand Imperial Navy' was corrupt and that this was for the best, I am inclined to believe them. That is the only rational thing to do, but then again, I suppose rationality is not a valued trait like it was in the old days.

Ha! This coming from an old coot like yourself Earlgon? a booming voice said from the door to council chambers. It was the Maester! However, I heard you mention her imperial highness, Crown Princess Luserina. That brings me to the whole reason I'm here. An idea so simple, its a wonder this gathering of the empires most "intelligent" and loyal supporters did not even consider it: Why dont we devote some resources to actually finding the princess? he makes an expression of feigned disbelief, My, oh my, you mean none of you considered that? After all, there is NO proof that she is dead after all. About all we know is she vanished with some of her fathers closest supporters...

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

Imperial Council

The voice of the representative is heard once more, responding to the accusation of the Maestro.


"I bid you consider two things, before your words spark conflict among those gathered in this room.

Firstly, consider what is known. The Emperor was killed, and his heir has disappeared. Let us assume that she yet lives. In this case, one of two scenarios presents itself. Either she has removed herself to a place of security, in which case she will return at such a time as she feels safe, or she was taken against her will, in which case the piecemeal efforts of those now assembled here may well result in her captors taking action, to end her life or otherwise.

In the first case, it can be seen that the empire's stability is paramount. Further, it can be seen that an attempt to locate her may result in her location becoming known to those who would harm her. In the second, there is cause for the most skilled of agents to seek her out, for a lesser attempt may cause far more harm than good.

Finally, in the case by which she lies dead but un-found, I fear that the discovery that there is no available heir would only serve to drive this empire apart, as the factions seek to see their own choice ascendant.

I mean no disrespect when I say this, Maestro, but it is the opinion of this representative that the Empire's future would be better served if we do not move hastily to find our sovereign's heir, but instead act with caution. Otherwise, we risk the Empire itself.

Secondly, consider the effects which the words your have spoken might have upon those who hear them. Before this council, you have cast aspersions of disloyalty. Some here might feel that their honor requires them to take actions to prove you wrong. There are two obvious courses which present themselves, in this event.

The first is to immediately begin searching for Crown Princess Luserina. I believe that the risks of such a course have already been addressed.

The second is to begin culling others accused of the same disloyalty, weakening the Empire as we turn against each other.

Either event may swiftly lead to the Empire's demise, and by extension the demise of the very person who you would have us save. It is for this reason that I humbly request that you give this careful consideration."

The representative ceases speaking for a moment, though whether to think or to breathe is uncertain.

"I will agree with you that the Crown Princess should be found. As such, I would propose that the Ghosts, as the most skilled operatives in the Empire, be tasked with finding her, though I suspect that they have already begun their attempt. Furthermore, I propose that they be given the authority to request the aid of the various imperial factions to aid in their search."

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

Imperial Council:
Addressing Regius Askor, Daimyo Slate inquires, "I am curious as to your answer to the Foundation's question. Do you acknowledge the Shogunate as a separate entity from the Empire?

And as for other matters, finding the heir is not as pressing of a matter as dealing with the current threats of this continent. There needs to be an Empire to rule when she returns, or else it's a fruitless venture. House Askor should be prepared to deal with the Nirvans if they so choose to attack, the 1st Legion should be deployed against the Free Kingdoms, and the central legions should focus on easing tensions between themselves and the populace in their areas. If General Octavious takes control of the 4th and 29th, it will only serve to further inflame their riots. The preservation of order should be the highest priority of this council."

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

The Imperial Council

Earlgon, you have been a mentor to me for most of my life, But I cannot believe that Nirva would attack our navy just to remove some corrupt leaders. Why not bring it to someone's attention in the our government? Why would they think that killing all those good men to get a few bad ones would be a good idea? Why would they risk their men's lives to take out people sucking funds from another government? It just doesn't make logical sense.

The only thing that makes logical sense is that they are planning an invasion and will either strike west or south soon. That threat is also the reason the southern legion cannot leave to help the central provinces. If the southern legions leave the area than we will look even weaker and Nirva will speed up their invasion plans. We must show some aggression to show our strength is still here and put some fear back in our enemies.

The Southern Provinces will send some aid to the central provinces, but I do not think sending military force to the area is a good idea.

Maester, recovering the princess would be a worthy investment. Unfortunetly the only group who would have any leads on the whereabouts would be the Ghosts, and they refuse to talk with any of us directly.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

Imperial Council
"I agree with the representative from House Askor. The Southern Legions should remain in their lands to either deter or repel a Nirvan assault, and the Ghosts should work toward finding the heir, if they are not already doing so and provided their agents are not required elsewhere to keep the Empire intact in the short term.

I would also like to point out that Regius Askor has yet to address the question of whether the Shogunate is a separate entity from the Empire."

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

Imperial Council

Right now I consider to Shogunate to be the same as the ERA. Neither a nation or a part of the empire. You have attacked the empires military to help defend the ERA, known rebels who seek the distruction of the empire.

It is a fact that if an emporer was on the throne you would be hunted down for treason. I am personally of the opinion that traitors to a nation are no longer part of that nation, but I may be alone in that sentiment.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 5

To Imperial Council
"You cannot be a traitor to an organization you are not a part of. And even if you don't wish to call the Shogunate or ERA a nation, by claiming we are not an Imperial faction, you acknowledge that we are separate power.

As for the matter of us attacking Imperials, the Shogunate fought the 1st Legion because they are monsters and target civilians. Even if you don't have enough moral integrity to find that wrong, deploying Octavius' jackals against former Imperial citizens has only served to cause dissent in your core province. If you are unable to keep control in the lands surrounding the capital city, how do you expect to retain order throughout the continent?"

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 4
Even as the dawn of a new year hangs over the continent things are changing...Wars are sparking all over the place as everyone seeks to solidify their power base in preperation for the inevitable day that the empire is ready for a new ruler to take the throne. Maester Melvock and his followers are calling this new year the year of new beginnings and believe that things will only get worse before the end. But there is hope they say, for at the end of this long road, those that survive will be treated to an era of unrivaled peace and prosperity. He has pledged to do his best to make sure his followers survive these troubled times and hundreds more are now flocking to his banners in the wake of a long round of speeches and sermons.

the Western Woods:At the beginning of the new year, the large army of the Rhunic Shogunate began a march into the massive Western Woods, the largest source of wood on the continent. Not much is known about what happened there but it seems the dwarven armies met fierce resistance at the hands of some less than friendly beasts of the woods...By the end of the month, dwarven armies had claimed the woods as their own and shipments of lumber are already being sent out which should greatly increase the availability of such resources across the empire.

Warlords: Meanwhile, two of the warlords inhabiting the northwestern portion of the continet have already sworn allegiance to Emperor Osric of the Shogunate.

Central Provinces: In the rebellious and war-torn central provinces, the remainder of the ERA forces marched into neighboring territories, extending aid to local rebels. Legion patrols have dropped substantially, leading to an increase in bandits and highwaymen.

In their own little portion of the province, the remaining forces are gathering around 1st Legion strongpoints which are being built in the wake of their advance.

Yet again rumours speak of Foundation forces providing humanitarian aid in the region.

Merchants War: In an unexpected move the army of House Askor, backed by the Imperial Southern Fleet, attempted military landings of the Shining Coin Emporium. For whatever reason or another the Emporium mercenaries and Golems were already waiting on the beach, forcing House Askor forces to wade ashore facing heavy resistance. In the end, through sheer luck, House Askor forces were forced to withdraw after both sides suffered heavy casualties.

Lake of Blood conflict heats up: Fighting around the huge lake continues, disrupting trade and shipments of goods. Despite having been going on for months, no one knows of the real reason for this bloodshed. What is known that neither the legions or Pegasus mercenary companies are willing to accept blame. Legion forces continue to stream into the region.

Free City of Eagle's Point... On the eastern side of the Lake of Blood in a small sector held by the Silverlode Contract, a mercenary company, a new city free of imperial jurisdiction and beholden to no foreign powers has risen. As of now, Eagle's Point is by every stretch of the imagination, a fortress town with very little in the way of civilian commodities, but Contract leaders have plans in motion to expand after the defenses of the city are finished. The few things the city does not lack are capable soldiers, sturdy walls and as might be expected in a town inhabited by hundreds of mercenaries, dozens of brothel's and whorehouses.

Rise of the Cults: It seems that, in the south, the Lowlands Union, one of the major powers in the south, has declared allegiance to the Thalitean Cults. Meanwhile, rumours speak of massive "Fell-Reavers". These Fell-Reavers are said to be stone golems imbued with the eldritch energies of demons. The rumours are unconfirmed at this time.

Nirva Invasion Fleet Heads Home: The invasion fleet from Nirva that everyone was freaking out about is heading home. It seems the were telling the truth.

Where oh where has my little Ghost gone: People across the continent are seeming to notice an absence of Ghosts...While it is always hard to figure out just who is a Ghost and who isnt, there have always been a couple members that everyone knows about in any major population center, but it seems not even those are around. No one knows for sure where the Ghosts have gone, but rumours abound. Some say they were targeted by Nirva assassins, others that they have left the empire behind and others still, say they are hunting sea-monsters. Needless to say no one takes the last people seriously.

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army Def-E:5

Central Territory Rebels
How would you feel about us joining forces? We have both helped each other a lot. You protected us from 1st legion and we helped you destroy the central legions. If we stand as one power we shall be better able to protect our selves from those who would assail us. After the war when the ERA drafts a constitution your people shall have the right to be separate country from the rest of the ERA assuming they so choose.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To Lowlands Union

What has come over you to ally with the cults? We assumed you were one of the staunch protectors of the empire.


To 1st Legion (PM)

Unfortunetly I don't think we will be able to send aid this month. We fear a two front war about to begin in the south. We will prevail, we will just be needing all our resources.

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army Def-E:5

Shining Coin Emporium
Why were you attacked by Royal House Askor? Have you broken away from the empire?

Maester Melvock
We are pleased to know that others share our vision of an era of peace and prosperity after the war.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 6

To the Thaletian Cults, Lowlands Union (6)
Greetings,

We of the Shogunate believe the three of us have a common enemy. House Askor has made it clear in prior communications that they plan to destroy the Cults. This message (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14317629&postcount=121)(OOC: the one to the you, Wyvern, as well as the Imperial Council meeting) in particular shows their intentions plainly. I would advise that the two of you use this opportunity of Askor's invasion of the Emporium to join the Spinning Coin in a war to end this threat once and for all.

They have already shown themselves to be violent expansionists with their recent campaigns, and this recent, unprovoked invasion attempt only serves to illustrate their lack of morals even further.

For the good of all of our people, I ask you to consider this.
-Emperor Osric

To the Foundation (4)
The reclamation of the Lhusa Mines is this season, correct? How many of my troops do you require? The amount may change what golem technology I ask for in return.

-Emperor Osric

To the Deep Trolls (5)
Are your current projects complete? We may have need to hire some of your researchers in the next few seasons.

-Emperor Osric

OOC: Probably not this turn. I think I need my Eco elsewhere for now. One more island to go for the province bonus...

To the ERA (5)
How goes your attempt to liberate the people of the Central province?

-Emperor Osric

To the Spinning Coin Emporium (3)
Did House Askor have any justification in invading you aside from sheer greed? They seem to be trying to grab whatever power they can since the Emperor's death.

-Emperor Osric

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls

To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We currently are just working on a suplementry project, and should be able to spare some lab space in the coming months.
OOC; K, have some work to do, but can spare some Research

To the Foundation
Our soliders will approch the mines this season. We have a new weapon, that might compensate for our.... focus on defence over offence.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate D-ESP:5
It is glorious. Most of the central legions have surrendered, died, or deserted. The remaining legionaries have clustered around 1st legion strong points.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 6

To the ERA (5)
Do you think you will be able to defeat the Legions this season? The 1st Legion still has substantial military forces and I would assume they have some assistance from the remnants of the Central legion.

-Emperor Osric

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 4

To: Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [4]

Indeed, this turn is the one on which we seek to retake the mines. We would ask for whatever forces you can spare. In exchange, we will provide you with the schematics necessary to construct Generation 1 Stone Golems.

If you have any other resources that can be used in overcoming the orcish defenses, they would be appreciated.


To: Deep Trolls [4]

We will meet you at the mines, then. I hope to see the effects of your new weapon.


To: Everyone[0]

Golem schematic sales continue! Current prices are four wealth for generation one wood golems, eight wealth for generation two, and twelve wealth for generation three wood golems. Generation one stone golems are available for sixteen wealth.

We are proud to announce the successful development of generation two stone golems, which may be purchased for twenty wealth.

In addition, we are now offering two new payment options. For those who just don't quite have enough money, we are offering a half now, half later deal. For those without quite enough to afford that, we are instead offering to sell these golems for permanent stat transfers, at a rate of four wealth to one stat point.

Buy now and show off your new servants to your neighbors, before you're the only one on the block without one!

[GnomeGninjas]

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate:5
I think that we would need some assistance to defeat 1st legion.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 6

To the ERA (5)
I believe my resources are needed to retake the Lhusa Mines and to secure full control of my province this season. I will see what I want can do.

-Emperor Osric

[GnomeGninjas]

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate (5)
Understood. Good luck with your conflicts.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 6

To the Deep Trolls (4)
In my travels with the war fleet, we encountered a form of weaponry based on the idea of using explosive powder to propel a projectile. We were wondering if you had developed any similar technologies, or if you would be willing to loan us researchers for us to pursue this line of development.

In future seasons, we will have funds freed up for this exchange.

OOC: Blackpowder weapons for the basic trooper.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls (ESP-D 6)

To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We will admit some experiments into gunpowder weapons, but as of yet, all we have are prototypes. We are deploying them in a field test on the mines, but they require a good bit of work yet.

OOC; I have [Prototype Blackpowder Weapons]. Needs more research to make it workable on a mass scale.

[oblivion6]

Spinning Coin Emporium[Open]
An interview with top Emporium officials is distributed throughout Imperial lands.

[I]The Spinning Coin Emporium denounces the Royal House Askor invasion of our holdings. We of the Emporium have done NOTHING to deserve such harsh actions and are loyal citizens of the empire. We sincerely hope that they are prepared for the potential consequences of their actions. We were hosting a very important representitive at the time of the invasion...The very daughter of Auron himself! Witnesses place her at the beach not long before Askor landing parties came ashore and we have not been able to locate her since the attack.

Central Rebels to ERA[3]
We would be delighted to join the Revolutionary Army.

Thalitean Cults/Lowlands Union to Shogunate[6]
We are working on a way to eliminate the pesky imperial scum in the region. House Askor will not be a problem once are plans bear fruit.

[GnomeGninjas]

Central Rebels
Welcome brothers (and sisters too).

[oblivion6]

[size="6"]Beginning of Turn 5[/color]

Shogunate Expansion: High "king" Urgit, a warlord in the north-west has sworn fealty to the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate. (Shogunate gains control of north-western province.)

War, War and More War: First off, in the south, House Askor finally secures a small foothold on the shores of Spinning Coin Emporium territory. However, rumours speak of hordes of cultists gathering on Askor's border.

Far to the west of this, the ERA launches an attack against the 1st Legion held lands. Following a near fatal attempt on General Octavious's life, a large effort designed to break Legion morale works better than expected and hundreds desert. When the attack finally comes the Legion puts up only token resistance and much of the territory is now under control of the ERA. 1st Legion is now down to only a fraction of its original strength.

In the north, the massive dwarven army of the Shogunate invades the Foundation. In a brilliantly executed campaign, the RRA managed to claim a quarter of the Foundations territory, completely eliminate enemy intelligence cells, destroy the vast majority of Foundation military forces and claim most of the Lhusu Mines in the span of a single month. Emperor Osric has claimed the reason for the attack is a small, covert raid on Shogunate facilities last month.

Rise of Eagles-Point: Despite rumours of the majority of Contract forces away from home most of the month, the city of Eagles-Point is now officially ready and open for business. Already, caravans are making camp in the city. It is now the only safe place in the Lake of Blood at this point in time.

Race to the Capital! Many factions, such as Maester Melvok and even Auron and his company seem to be going to great lengths to secure the area around Malarae. What caused the sudden spike in activity is unknown. Its even rumoured that a sudden growth in the number of Ghost's within the imperial city.

Return of the Ghost It seems the Ghosts are back from their absensce last month. They still aren't talking about where they were but they are certainly discouraging such questions. Those that dig too far seem to disappear...

The Empire Strikes Back: The imperial legions have launched a counterattack on the free-kingdom forces in the south-west. The fighting was long and bloody, but imperial forces have pushed them back to pre-war boundries.

Begun the Clone War has... It seems that a civil-war is brewing in Nirva island as a man almost identical to the current ruler has stepped up and is rebelling against the High-Admiral.

[Nemesis67]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the Deep Trolls (6)
We would like to go ahead with the planned trade of 5 t. Eco for 5 t. Tech this turn. We have begun development of a powered rail system for our lands, and it has been proceeding slowly due to our lack of scientists.

As well, would you be willing to assist us in eliminating the last remnants of the Lhusan horde? We will allow you access to the deepest ores for the sake of your research in exchange.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls (ESP-D 6)

To The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We would be intrested in such a project. The Results could prove intresting. As for the mines, we will assist. The ores in the depths could prove... intresting to work with.

But, we have a question. Why did you go after the foundation? While we belive that they are capable of such a thing, we are suprised they did it when there was a joint operation with those they provoked.

To the Foundation
So, what did you do to the Shogunate? Just want to know what is happening between those close to us.

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 3

"The Dwarves claim an attack? Ideas."

"They either made it up, or someone performed a false flag."

"Candidates?"

"House Askor has motive and means. They hired those golems, which weren't returned. The ERA or the RRS have means, and the RRS appears to be gaining from the situation. The Shadows also have means and motive, but I doubt that it's the case."

"Right, we're not going to get any confirmation on that, and the RRS has conveniently eliminated our espionage capabilities. O-5, can we win this war?"

"If our forces were intact, it would be a near thing to keep them away from the factories. If that succeeded, we would win in a war of attrition. As it stands, our production can not be brought to bear, and this war will be over in two months, a complete Shogunate victory."

"Unacceptable. Allies?"

"The ERA is busy to the south, and is keeping the Empire busy. The RRS is attacking us, and have access to one of our points of incentive for working with the Deep Trolls. They successfully bought off the Contract. We're more or less alone."

"Right. So, we've lost?"

"Two cards left to play. Since we're still an imperial territory, the RRS invasion constituted a declaration of war against the Empire. Secondly, we have our golem schematics, which we could distribute to those opposed to the RRS and whomever conducted that false flag."

"There is a third card, as well. Flipping the political table, so to speak. I propose to enact Protocol 11e."

To: Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [3]

I trust that you are fully aware of the consequences of your actions. In the event that you wish to discuss the alleged incident leading to your surprise invasion, we are willing to listen, but be advised that the High Council is most displeased at this time.

To: The Deep Trolls [3]

They have claimed that we attacked them at some point in the months prior to the battle at the mines. We have no knowledge of any such attack occurring, and thus suspect that a false flag operation was carried out.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Foundation and RRS [My ESP-D is 6, what is yours?]
What is going on? I attack some Imperial murderers and my allies are at each other's throats? I request an explanation!

To Spinning Coin Emporium [6 or Spinning Coin Empurium's]
Why is house Askor assailing your lands? We could provide some support though most of us are busy attacking 1st legion.

To Thaltien Cults [6 or their ESP-D]
Are the rumors true? Shall you bring down House Askor and restore
peace to the realm?

Free Nations [6 or their ESP-D]
The ERA wishes you luck in opposition to the Imperial forces. We believe we can assist you after we destroy 1st Legion.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To Foundation (PM)

Bella arrives at your headquaters unanounced, asking for a meeting with one of your leaders
We hear that you are having some problems with the Dwarves. We are having trouble with the Lowlands Union. We have a plan that can assist both our causes if your willing to listen.


To Deep Trolls (DESP 4)

We are looking for aid to keep the Cults and Lowlands Union from attack our lands. Are you able to provide assistance?

[NM020110]

The Foundation
ESP-D: 3

To: The ERA [3]

I'm afraid that you'll need to hear from the RRS for this. As best we can tell, a false flag operation was conducted, but we don't have enough information to confirm that. Thanks to the RRS, we don't have the capability to get that information, either...

To: House Askor [3]

The High Council will meet with you shortly. They would request a piece of information, however.

What were the golems you hired used for?

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To the Foundation (DESP 3)

They were used in our assult on the Spinning Coin. They were selling weapons to anti-imperial factions, so we got involved. We knew it was going to be a hard fight because the spinning coin had golems and we did not.

[Nemesis67]

The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the Deep Trolls (6)
The eastern lands of my province were attacked by Foundation golems two seasons ago, in violation of a mutual protection pact we had previously arranged. They had also hired the services of some portion of their forces to House Askor in that season. Considering the logistics necessary for said attack, either the Foundation had intentionally deployed their troops against ours and had failed to deal much damage, or House Askor had hired their golems and used their spies to infiltrate them into the landing zone in hopes of the disruption of my nation.

In either case, the Foundation allowed their soldiers to attack us, breaching our pact. Whether the motivation was hostile intent or incompetence is irrelevant. House Askor has openly condemned both the Shogunate and the ERA, and spoken of dealing with my "invasion" in the Imperial meeting, and considering the only possible targets of the Foundation's golems were myself, the ERA, or you, we view the decision to lend advanced weaponry to an outright hostile power without any restrictions on use as tantamount to an attack by themselves.

Therefore we have taken the necessary actions to enforce the clauses of our pact.
-Emperor Osric

To the ERA (6)
As I am rather certain you have the capability of reading my message to the Trolls, I will simply reference that as to why I ordered the assault on the Foundation. Their actions are the equivalent of me hiring my forces to the 1st Legion and acting surprised when they are deployed against you. Would the blood of your people not be on my hands simply because I did not give the order to do so? Does loaning the services of my soldiers to a faction who has explicitly expressed intent to destroy your own not make me culpable or does passing off the blade excuse me of the consequences?

-Emperor Osric

To Auron (?)
Salutations,

I am curious as to your interest in the regions surrounding Malarae. The Shogunate was hoping to ask you to assist us in securing enough of the Lake of Blood so as to ensure steady shipment of grains and foodstuffs to prevent a famine from spreading. If you are otherwise occupied in this season, do you have any idea as to when you will be available to aid us in this endeavor? We ourselves may be unable to spare resources this turn in securing the Lake, but we plan on doing so next season.

-Emperor Osric



To Maester Melvok (?)
Greetings,

I am Emperor Osric of the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate, as I'm sure you are aware. Your recent actions have drawn my curiosity. I would assume you hope to help establish some order and faith in the Emperor by securing the capital city or do you have some other motivation in the lands around Malarae?

As well, you may be interested in an operation I am hoping to undertake this season. With the Lake of Blood province hounded by bandits, monsters, and this unending war between the Pegasus mercenaries and the Legions of the area, the shipment of food has stagnated, and famine can be seen in the horizon. As it seems that some of the factions that claim to be working to reestablish Imperial rule are currently too busy engaging in wars to expand their own power, I feel it is my responsibility to take action. My faction was hoping to invest some of our resources into ensuring that the trade routes of the province are secured and that people have food on their plate. Would you be willing and able to aid us in this? We ourselves may be unable to spare resources this turn in securing the Lake, but we plan on doing so next season.

To the Lake of Blood Legions(?)
Greetings,

We of the Shogunate were hoping to begin talks with yourself in the interest of re-establishing food shipments through the Lake of Blood. With all of the chaos in the region, famine may begin to spread through the rest of the continent, which is unacceptable. We ourselves may be unable to spare resources this turn in securing the Lake, but we plan on doing so next season. Will you aid us?

-Emperor Osric

To the Silverlode Contract (?)
Greetings to the Contract,

We of the Shogunate were hoping to begin talks with yourself, as well as other parties involved, in the interest of re-establishing food shipments through the Lake of Blood. Order must prevail on this continent, and a famine will only serve to add fuel to the fire that is already spreading since the Emperor's death. As it seems that the factions that claim to be working to reestablish his state are currently too busy engaging in wars to expand their own power, I feel it is my responsibility to take action. Can I count on your support to help secure the trade routes? We ourselves may be unable to spare resources this turn in securing the Lake, but we plan on doing so next season.

Edited in more messages since initial posting, as well as modified above.

To the Pegasus Mercs (?)
Greetings,

We of the Shogunate have an interest in ensuring that order prevails on this continent. Due to the current conflict in your province, famine is beginning to loom on the horizon. As such, we were planning on taking actions to secure the trade routes so grain shipments can resume. While we are otherwise occupied at this moment, we were planning on sending troops in the next month in order to achieve this. Can we count on your support?

To the Mercantile Guild (?)
Greetings,

We of the Shogunate have an interest in ensuring that order prevails on this continent. Due to the current conflict in your province, famine is beginning to loom on the horizon. As such, we were planning on taking actions to secure the trade routes so grain shipments can resume. While we are otherwise occupied at this moment, we were planning on sending troops in the next month in order to achieve this. Can we count on your support?

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army

To The Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [6]
We understand and believe that your actions were surprising though justified.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

My previous post was modified as some plans changed slightly involving the NPC factions. (Note for the sake of oblivion and those of y'all with high espionage)

To the Deep Trolls (6)
As can be expected, most of our troops are otherwise occupied this turn. As such, we are deploying only a small portion of troops (enough to match the martial strength of the orcs), but considering their magical support, I do not expect to be able to win that fight on my own. I request you send as many troops as you deem fit to ensure success.

OOC: Orcs have 1-2 Mil, I'm sending 2 Mil. They also have some amount of shamans backing them up.

We would also like to confirm the trade of 5 t.Wealth for 5 t.Tech, as well as offer you the rail system technology (after it's completion) in exchange for your prototype smoke powder weapons.

Copy-Paste from previous post, to ensure visibility:

To the Pegasus Mercs (?)
Greetings,

We of the Shogunate have an interest in ensuring that order prevails on this continent. Due to the current conflict in your province, famine is beginning to loom on the horizon. As such, we were planning on taking actions to secure the trade routes so grain shipments can resume. While we are otherwise occupied at this moment, we were planning on sending troops in the next month in order to achieve this. Can we count on your support?

To the Mercantile Guild (?)
Greetings,

We of the Shogunate have an interest in ensuring that order prevails on this continent. Due to the current conflict in your province, famine is beginning to loom on the horizon. As such, we were planning on taking actions to secure the trade routes so grain shipments can resume. While we are otherwise occupied at this moment, we were planning on sending troops in the next month in order to achieve this. Can we count on your support?

[oblivion6]

Free Kingdoms-ERA[6]
Any aid is much appreciated.

Thalitean Cults-ERA[6]
Should the demons below will it then House Askor will fall.

Emporium-ERA[3]
We can't even come up with any reason that they would attack us. We have done nothing.

Mercantile's/Legions of Blood/Contract/etc, etc-RRS[2]
They are all promising various degrees of support.

Maester Melvock-RRS[7]
My overall goal in Malarae is to bring atleast some order to the city. The legions have instituted martial law and strive to keep the peace but the people need faith. Which I can give to them.

While I support your goal in the Lake of Blood region, my resources are tied up for the forseeable future. I wish I was, but I am not made of money, soldiers or spies like others are.

Auron-RRS[7]
I owed a favor to my friends in the Ghosts and they decided to cash it in to help them prepare for some "big event" in the near future.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls (ESP-D 6)

To Royal House Askor
We do not interfere in surface poltics. However, we find the cults troubling.

To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We'll send what we did last time. We are better on the defense then offense, but the smokepowder weapons should help.

OOC; Deal, and confirmied.

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA
To Emporium[3]
Damn the Imperial nobles, we shall help you be rid of them as soon as possible. Hopefully the Thalitean Cults can assist you as well.
To Free Kingdoms[6]
Our forces no being used against 1st legion shall be used to assist you.
Thalitean Cults[6]
We hope that the demons below will the fall of Askor soon, there can be no peace as long as Askor stands.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the ERA (6)
The message recently sent from Auron to myself contains information that you should probably be worried about.

As well, how many of your resources did you put towards breaking the will of the 1st Legion?

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [6]
This alliance between the Ghosts and Auron is disturbing. What should be done about it? Those ghost probably have intercepted these messages so we should guard our tongues.

To break 1st legion moral we conjured menacing clouds above their land.

OOC: 5 magic and a VIP assisting it.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

Modified message 23:22, 2-6-13.

To the ERA (6)
They are not allied, so far as I am aware. And the Shogunate does not view the Ghosts as our enemy. We each are pursuing order through our own methods, though whether they view us as acting in opposition to their plans for the continent or not, we do not know, though I expect they approve of my intentions to ensure food reaches the public as a whole next month.

What should be more concerning to you is the Ghosts plan that requires the capital. Based on recent events and the circumstances involved, we expect that it will have something to do with the Imperial heir. If this is correct, and in the possibility that she has been found by the Ghosts and brought back to restore the Empire, then she will need Malarae to be reclaimed as the capital, for the sake of the people seeing the continuation of order. With that, there will be a natural need for them to control the lands surrounding the city, for the sake of protecting the throne, which will bring them into conflict with yourself.

While such a conflict of intentions can be soothed by a peaceful resolution, considering your previous actions against the Empire and the two of your powers' diametrically opposed philosophies, violence is rather likely. We will personally do whatever is in our power to avoid war with a remade Empire, considering the chaos that would ensue from such a conflict and the harm that will occur on the public. As your ally, we felt that warning you of such a possibility was our duty, so that you may deliberate on your course of actions and prepare for whatever path you choose to take.
-Emperor Osric

OOC: What about the assassination attempt?

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA to Reborn Rhunic Shogunate[6]
We would be willing to negotiate peace with an Imperial heir if one appears in Malarae. We might be able to give up the lands surrounding Malarae in exchange for some land elsewhere or a peace treaty.

OOC: 9 espionage and 1 wealth.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To Deep Trolls (DESP 4)

We are troubled by the cults as well, unfortunetly with their talons in the low lands union we cannot fight them off. Is there some assistance you can provide to keep them at bay? We had plans for some mutual benifit with the foundation to help route the fanatics, but the foundation doesn't seem to keen on helping us out.

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 6
She will be loved
Nirvan Rebellion gains steam: On Nirva Island, the rebellion, led by the "real" High-Admiral, gains steam and makes several decisive moves against loyalist forces. The general populace is at a loss of who to support. Both admirals seem to look the same. Who is the true leader?

Shogunate Victory: In the north, the RRS has succesfully crushed the Foundation. Though not in the expected manner...In an attempt to spite the Shogunate, the Foundation transferred all its assets to the ERA. Much was intercepted by Shogunate troops but enough made it to the ERA to make the Shogunate very unhappy.

In related news, the Foundations High-Council has spoken out against the invasion and is calling for all imperial factions to drive out the Shogunate.

Fortifications: House Askor spent this month building up. Miles of fortifications are being built along its borders, including a fort on their beach-head within Emporium lands.

Rumours say that the Spinning Coin merchants are considering a peace-treaty. This blockade is hurting their business.

Shogunate Railroad: The RRS has succesfully constructed a rail system connecting its territories. This has greatly increased the speed of trade and could allow troops more mobility should anyone attack their holdings.

Reclaiming of the Lhusu Mines: An alliance between the Shogunate and the Deep-Trolls has succesfully driven out the orc's from the Lhusu Mines. By this point, the RRS has complete control over both of the biggest sources of raw materials on the continent.

Fall of the 1st Legion: The ERA has finally ended its conflict with the feared 1st Legion. General Octavious has returned to the imperial city of Malarae in disgrace, but is vowing revenge against the ERA for making a mockery of him and thelegion he built pretty much from scratch.

Return of the heir
The Imperial Council had been summoned to a meeting in Malarae by the Ghosts of all people. representitives from all over the empire had arrived, each bringing with them as many troops as possible, turning the neigborhoods adjacent to the council chambers into what looked to be an armed military camp. Everyone was curious as to the reasons for this emergency council session(if the Ghosts had issued the summons then it was an indeed an emergency) and rumours abounded.

For all the show that everyone had made with their forces parading through the streets, it all fell far short of a company of red-cloaked mercenaries marching down the cobbled avenues of the main street. At the head of the procession was a figure known to just about everyone...Auron! In the center of the company was a large carriage clearly made for royalty. Once the mercenaries had reached the doors to the chambers they quickly fanned out and formed a perimeter between the gathering crowds of people and the doors.

---

Royal heir! That cry quickly spread throughout the chamber as she walked in through the door, flanked by a pair of grim-faced Ghost's whose hands never strayed far from their sword hilts. Not far behind the Ghosts were Sir Auron and another hooded figure. Luserina, the emperor's heir, was rather unremarkable to say the least. dressed in a simple peasants gown, her shoulder-length black hair hung loosely. Despite this, she carried herself with an air of dignity no one in the room could match.

Upon coming to the podium at the front of the room, she whispered something to the hooded figure before looking over the assembly. As some of you likely know, I am Luserina, the heir to the imperial throne which was vacated when my father was assassinated in the dead of night by unknown parties. She paused, gathering her thoughts before continueing. I took my fathers top advisors, those I knew I could trust with my life, and fled to...Well, where is not important at the moment. I fled to protect the long-term stability of the empire. If I had stayed then I could very well be dead right about now, which would've doomed the empire and everything my father worked for. During my journey here to the city and the month spent with my loyal supporters, the Ghosts, I spent much time in catching up with what has happened during my self-imposed exile. As things stand now, I believe it will be tough, but we will pull through this and not only survive, but thrive, in these troubled times. But I can not do this alone and we must unite or fall. I realize many of you may have unsetteled grievances with eachother, but I urge all of you to put those behind you and lend me your support. For I will need as much help as possible if things are to be set right. And with that, she would pause and allow others to speak.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Imperial Heir [public]
The ERA would be willing to consider a peace treaty. A war with you would be horrible for this region and we are hopeful that you will be a better ruler than your father.

To RRS
We assure you that we played no part in the Foundation giving us their wealth, it is ironic that they gave us their wealth as they ordered the imperials to attack you. How do you feel about the heir in Malarae?

To everyone[public]
The Enlightened Revolutionary Army is proud to announce the destruction of 1st legion. A great force of evil has been driven from the world.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To the Spinning Coin (DESP 4)

With the re-appearance of the Royal Heir I feel it may be time to stop this war before it gets any worse. We know of your assistance to the ERA right after the Emporer was assinated. We are too distant to help them in their fights, but we marched to stop your assistance to the enemy. We believe there may be peace between us now that the heir has shown herself. Are you willing to come to the table and discuss terms?

(OOC: in the first turn posts 37 ,39, and 40)


Royal Heir Reveal

Regius tries to be the first to stand.
House Askor is still strong in the South, and we believe we can keep that region in the Empire. The Askor Family will support anything you decree your Highness. What do you feel our actions should be?

[oblivion6]

Spinning Coin-House Askor
We are willing to discuss terms of a treaty.

Royal Heir-ERA[Public]
If you agree to halt your current expansion into imperial territories and pledge to support me in restoring order to the empire, then I am willing to overlook past actions on your part.

Royal Heir Revealed
The heir hesitated a moment before responding to Regius Askor. While the Free Kingdoms are certainly the greatest external threat to imperial stability, I think our first goal should be restoring order to the lands still under imperial control.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Royal Heir[public]
What does "restoring order to the empire" mean?

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To the Spinning Coin

The First question will be, are you willing to join the empire. We will not push the topic, but if you are willing it will make the disscussion of peace a lot easier.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the Heir (7)
You have referenced "Imperial lands" in a number of your statements, but that is a rather vague label. What precise territories do you consider Imperial and intend to restore order to?

-Emperor Osric

To the ERA (7)
We harbor no ill will towards you for the spiteful actions of the Foundation cowards. Surrendering and calling on others to fight their war... Pathetic.

The return of the heir could either mean the continent being brought to order or chaos, depending on her view of the two of us. What she claims as Imperial lands will show which path will be taken.

-Emperor Osric

To those contacted in the previous turn about the Lake of Blood (3?)
The Shogunate shall divert its forces in order to secure the trade routes of the region and ensure a famine is staved off. We ask for whatever aid you can give, both in assets and access.

-Emperor Osric

[oblivion6]

The Imperial Heir[Public]
Well, I believe our first step should be to deal with the situation in the Lake of Blood. The fighting and bandit activity has only been getting worse over the past months and because of that, food stores in many parts of the empire are dwindling, causing the price to skyrocket. If we could restore the flow of supplies across our most important trade-routes, the economy could begin to recover and the lot of the common folk would be greatly improved.

Ghosts(Heir)-Nirva Island[8]
Uncle, I plan to send a small task-force of my Ghosts to assist your intelligence agents against this clone. I owe you everything and will do everything in my power to help you.

-Your loving niece, Luserina

[The High-Admiral is not technically her uncle of course but they are close nonetheless. More a term of endearment than anything else.]

Spinning-Coin Emporium-House Askor
We have nothing against the empire and are glad to see the heir has returned. However, we are just a group of independent merchants, not warlords or landowners, and see no reason to actually swear our allegiance to the empire.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the Imperial Heir (7)
The Shogunate already has plans to deploy some of its forces to restore food shipments in the Lake of Blood. As a gesture of good will between our two powers, would you be willing to work together with us in this endeavor?

[oblivion6]

Imperial Heir-Shogunate
"I am willing to accept any help I can get at the moment. I have a feeling i'll need it.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Imperial Heir
What does "restoring order the the empire" mean? As empress what will your plans be for the empire? Before we can work out a treaty or agreement we'll have to know that you'll be better than your father.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the Pegasus Mercs / Blood Legions (3)
Greetings to the defenders of the Lake of Blood,

As I have informed you before, the Shogunate is deploying our soldiers to eliminate the bandits and monsters that have arisen in your province. I request that the two of you put aside your feud for a single month so as to prevent thousands from starving. You can return to killing each other after the shipping routes are secured for all I care, I simply ask that you don't interfere with my plans.

I would of course greatly appreciate your direct aid but, at the least, avoid fighting around Rhunic forces.
-Emperor Osric

To the Deep Trolls (7)
Are you still interested in exchanging your Prototype Smokepowder Weapons for our Rail Network tech?

We also now have the Foundation's Golemcraft: Generation III Stone, if you are interested in either purchasing it or trading other technologies. We are implementing them into our armies and economy this month.

And on an unrelated note, what plans do you have in the coming months? Continuing research and development? Any opinions of the heir's return?

To the ERA (7)
The offer to trade for Golemcraft or the Rail Network technology extends to you as well. Any interest?

And we are also curious as to your plans. With you proposing peace with the Imperials, I am unsure of what you intend to do. Fortify the central province and secure greater control over it? Or are you hoping to continue freeing the people of the continent?

[GnomeGninjas]

To RRS [7]
We proposed peace with the heir because it would be in our long term interest. We have the land we need to build our better society. If the imperials don't infringe upon it then we will be fine. Because of our willingness to try new ideas our nation will be superior to the remains of the empire. Our first system of government might turn out horribly, if it does we find a better one, this process continues until we have found a system on governing vastly superior to what the empire has. The people of the empire will recognize our nations superiority and migrate to our lands, if the empire tries to stop them they will fail, no government can resist the will of the people for long. The empire will fall and the people who lived under it's tyranny will adopt our superior system of government. The empire will have been destroyed and the continent will enter an era of enlightenment under whatever superior system we find to work.

In response to our offer of peace the heir demanded that we help restore stability to the empire. We are not sure what that means though it sounds like repressing the will of the people and potentially giving up our lands. We asked for clarification the heir did not respond.

We would be interested in GolemCraft and RailNetwork, we are not sure what to give you in exchange. We could try to teach some dwarves magic (spend magic to increase your magic stat) since it is a lost art to your people?

[Grimsage Matt]

The Deep Trolls

To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We would be intrested in the rail technology, as it would further some experiments we've been thinking of with automotive engineering.

As for golems, we do not use them. Or, at the very least, we do not use magical contructs at all, instead our focus is going to be on several types of alloy.

As for the heir, so long as they leave us alone, we don't care over much for poltics. While we are not strictly isolationist, we do realize that the struggle is between the shogunate and the empire, and always, we will remain impartial.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the ERA (7)
In exchange for the Rail Networks technology, I will say a loan of any combination of 11 stats for next month would suffice. The Shogunate will be putting down criminals in the Lake of Blood, and more assistance would be appreciated, to ensure shipping routes are secured. 11 is the number we invested to create it, and I believe that is a fair price.

The Golem tech was being sold by the Foundation for 18 Wealth, but we will accept any stats for it.

If you have any technologies yourself or anything else to offer, I would be happy to negotiate.

-Emperor Osric

To the Deep Trolls (7)
From what our sages can tell, the Lhusan Ore has innate magical properties. We are unaware of any other uses as of yet.

So you will accept Rail Networks in exchange for the Prototype Smokepowder Weapons? Do you have any other technologies you would be willing to trade?

-Emperor Osric

[oblivion6]

Pegasus Archery Company/Blood Legions-RRS
"We will do our best to avoid fighting on the trade-routes or near any Shogunate forces. However, our opponents may not see things the same way and will likely hinder your operations.

Imperial Heir-ERA
"I would appreciate it if you would kindly cease your insulting comments about my father and his rule...He was a great man and didn't deserve this...

Restoring order to the empire means exactly what it sounds like. I will do everything possible to ensure all this infighting and bloodshed ends as well as ensuring my people are safe."

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

Pegasus Archery Company / Blood Legions (3)
Shogun Madhammer:
Allow me to clarify the position of my liege. If your fighting results in any harm to my forces, or any assets of the Shogunate or allies, we will take it as a formal declaration of war and will respond in kind. Not only are you guilty for the dereliction of your duty as the guardians of the Lake, you are choosing vengeance over saving thousands of lives. At the least, you can murder each other in a way that does not further damage the stability of the continent any more so than you have already done.

To the Deep Trolls (7)
The reason we ask for your future plans is because we have been considering restoring order to the Novastorm's former territory in the coming months, and hoped it would not interfere with your own goals. Once it is liberated, the two of us could connect our rail networks together for increased trade. Do you intend to leave your underground and expand your own domain?

Our current focus is on securing the food shipments through the Lake of Blood to avoid famine this month, but we have kept an eye to the future.

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA to Imperial Heir
Yes, but you said that we would have to pledge to support you in restoring order to the empire. We want to know if you will use our pledge to attempt to force us to murder rebels, conquer other nations, or assassinate political opponents.

ERA to Reborn Rhunic Shogunate[6, I'm actually D-ESP 6. I got confused earlier. If someone has 6 espionage they are free to read all of my posts this turn.]
In exchange for both technologies we can lend you 6 wealth, 6 magic, 10 espionage, 5 reputation and 2 military.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 7

To the ERA (6)
I will gladly accept that exchange. For your peace of mind, none of your stats will be used against any other factions. Except possibly the Pegasus Mercs or Blood Legions, if they attack my troops, but I'm hoping Madhammer's threat will convince them to give my soldiers a wide berth.

-Emperor Osric

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 7

A New Legion: Rumours say that General Octavious, former commander of the 1st Legion, has been in contact with several retired legion officers and is working on founding a new legion for the sole purpose of crushing the ERA. The heir has yet to make any public statement on this issue.

Lake of Blood Cleansed: In a simply massive effort organized by the Imperial Heir and RRS, the monsters and bandit tribes that have been disrupting trade in the Lake of Blood region have been driven out and killed. Even the Blood Legion and Pegasus Archery Companies conflict seems to have ended with the remaining mercenaries going into hiding. Food shipments can now resume which should save many from starvation. In the end, the Shogunate walked away with two shiny new territories.

End of the Mercantile's Guild: The Mercantile's Guild, one of the most important trading companies in the empire, has had all of its assets merged with either the Shogunate or the Silverlode Contract. Their holdings in the Lake of Blood are of course split between the two groups. The master merchants of the Guild are now literally swimming in gold and are happy with how things turned out.

More Shogunate Conquests: The Shogunate armies have moved in and conquered the former territory of the now extinct Novastorm Alliance.

Dragon!: When the Shogunate forces marched south from Novastorm lands, they seem to have awoken a huge dragon of all things. Adventurers from all over the empire are lining up to get a chance to slay the dragon and steal its hoard. Rumours speak of drakes pouring up out of the ground leading many to believe that the dragon is not alone and has a mate deep inside the caverns.

House Askor's Military Prowess: Hundreds of new recruits are seen signing up with House Askor mercenary companies. Not only that but fine arms and armor are also being shipped to Askor compounds. Experts say that House Askor now rivals the other military powers on the continent such as the RRS, Silverlode Contract and Auron.

Nirva Island Burns In the most violent month of fighting sice the crisis on Nirva began two months ago, Hundreds lie dead as the rebels continue their march on the capital. Rumours speak of a small task-force of Ghosts aiding the High-Admiral but by this point his forces are outnumbered and won't last another month unless things change. Of course, who knows? For all anybody knows the current ruler could be the clone and the rebel could be the real one.

[Let me know if you think I missed something. Certainly feels that way.]

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army[9]
To General Octavious
If you raise an army then we will destroy you. We have done it before, and we can do it again. It appears that you a not only a war-crimanal but also a sore loser.
To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We gave you our support but you did not share your technology with us, what happened? EDIT: Oblivion6 just forgot to tell me, sorry about this.
Maester Melvock
We are interested to know what your plans are. Many members of the ERA are of your faith and we believe an alliance between us would be very beneficial for both parties.

[oblivion6]

Ghosts-Nirva[6]
I am sending more support this month. Hopefully 3 full legions is enough to end this thing once and for all.

-Luserina

Maester-ERA
I am not opposed to an alliance with you.

It is much too early to spill the beans on my plans though.

Octavious-ERA
I am not scared of your threats. I have already survived 3 of your attemps and am not worried.

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA-Maester
Is there anything we should for you to prove our devotion to an alliance between us?

[oblivion6]

Maester-ERA
I do not really believe you are decieving me in this matter. However, now that I think about it, you could help me by further spreading the word of my faith. If the most beloved group in the Empire officially recognizes my faith then it will serve to make those people who are on the fence regarding me, more likely to accept my teachings.

In return, I'll announce to the world that you are an official backer of the church.

[GnomeGninjas]

The Enlightened Revolutionary Army would like to formally state their support for Maester Melvock's faith.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To the Heir (8)
Do you have evidence that the reigning High Admiral is the original one? It would be unfortunate if you aided the imposter in this conflict.

-Emperor Osric

To the Deep Trolls (6)
Thank you for your prototypes. Do you have any other technologies you would be willing to offer us? Or would you be willing to hire out your researchers once more this month? We may have some funds we can divert, though I am unsure as of yet.

-Emperor Osric

To the ERA (8)
We have developed or acquired a handful of new technologies. Would you be interested in trading for them?

-Emperor Osric

To the Dragon (???)
I would like to discuss relations between my faction and yourself. Being neighbors, we may have mutual interests.

-Emperor Osric

[oblivion6]

I would like to let it be known that I, Maester Melvock, support the Enlightened Revolutionary Army.

Heir-Shogunate[8]
Of course I do. Do not concern yourself over that.

Also, you have my thanks for your help in the Lake of Blood.

[b]Dragons-Shogunate[8][/PM]
The dragon himself, a great and massive Red, flies north to meet with your commanders.

Me Klaus, lord of these lands! You puny dwarflings! Why is it you bring thousands of armed men marching through, disturbing my slumber!? It would say in a deep and booming voice. It speaks the common tongue quite well for a dragon.

[Grimsage Matt]

Deep Trolls

To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
At this time, there are several internal projects we are working on that require our full attention. As it stands, we may be ready to sell something in a while.

To the Dragon
Greetings Dhova. It is good to hear from one of your kind again, and I trust we can remain cordial relations with each other?

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army[9]
To RRS[8]
We would be interested in trading for new technologies. We are working on hot air balloons that we believe we could finish soon and share with you. What have you produced?

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To the ERA (PM)
Shogun Madhammer arrives to personally discuss this and other matters for the sake of privacy.

"We have developed armoring runes and tunneling machines in this past month. Rhunic sages will be creating a proper armor for the vehicles incorporating the runes this month. We would be interested in trading you for the hot air balloons once it is completed.

But onto more important matters... The heir is currently recalling the Legions to Malarae and reorganizing them. Along with Auron and the Maester's people, there is over 60 Mil at your borders. While I do not expect them to attack prior to the Empire being fully re-integrated together, they may seek out any possible excuses to justify an invasion.

I would highly suggest you seek to build up your combat capabilities for the sake of protecting yourself. The heir has intentionally avoided making any claims on lands so she can seek to rebuild the Empire, as soon as we are dealt with. If she were to acknowledge our controls of our respective territories, she would have to admit that the Empire no longer has sway over them, and because she wants to re-establish that, she can't.

Once the Legions, Ghosts, and heir have been fully united in organization, she will turn her focus outwards. We need to be prepared for that time for the sake of our continued survival."

To the Deep Trolls (6)
We will stay in touch in the coming months then.

-Emperor Osric

[GnomeGninjas]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate [pm]
We are attempting to join forces with Maester Mevlock. When the empire knocks at our doors, those loyal to Maester shall hopefully join us. We shall prepare our armies as well.

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 8

Octavious Expands: General Octavious seems to have recently dipped deep into his purse and hired a fairly large amount of soldiers, be they mercenaries or legionaries.

Dragon Towns: In the range of the massive red dragon that came out of hiding last month, swarms of people are being transported from Shogunate lands to colonize the mountainous region and pay the dragon tribute. Massive amounts of wealth are also being shipped to the dragon.

ERA 1. Bandits 0.:[/b] The ERA has seriously cracked down on bandits and outlaws in their territories.

Walls, walls and more walls: Many factions across the empire are building fortifications, including the RRS, Silverlode Contract and Thalitean Cults.

Invasion: The large army of House Askor took the battle to the Thalitean Cults this month. The battle went very well overall and by the end, they were in control over most of the southern half of Cult territory. In the north, an even larger of mercenaries stood face to face with the cult infantry who waited just across the border. Behind the Cults stood the towering Fell-Reavers, massive stone golems imbued with demonic magic.


Nirva is saved: Thaks to a large influx of Ghosts and Legion troops into Nirva Island, the rebel forces were put down and the clone is now believed dead.

The New Empress!: The Imperial Heir has officially declared herself as "empress" in the Imperial City. She has pledged to not rest until stability has returned to the continent.

War?: The Imperial Heir, directly after officially declaring herself as empress, personally leads a full three-fourths of the Imperial Legion to mass on the border with the Free Kingdoms.

[I know i'm a bit light on fluff but either I missed alot or this is a very quiet turn in terms of public happenings...]

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army [10]
To RRSWe have completed our hot air balloons and are willing to trade them for some of your technology. What do you have available?

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To the ERA (PM)
The former high king and de-facto ruler of the Northern warlords, and now the first non-Rhunic lord, Daimyo Urgit arrives to discuss the trade and other matters.

"My liege has developed [Warded Armor] (Magic dampening protection), [Tunnelers], and [Assault Tunnelers] (Reduces fortification bonus). We would be willing to trade any one of those for yours.

But on to the reason I have come personally...

After the Cults and Kingdoms have been dealt with, we will be the next targets. The unified Imperials have around 80 Mil to call upon. Between the two of us, we have maybe 25-30. The Free Kingdoms has 40 Mil on their own, and therefore must survive for the sake of our own sovereignty. The Thaliteans have their own troops to call upon that could help even the odds for those who will not bow before the newly proclaimed Empress. As such, we must take actions to ensure that the Kingdoms and Cults do not fall.

Do you agree?"

To the Dragon (PM)
The Shogunate may become involved in open warfare in the coming months. While we would appreciate your aid in our possible offensives, that is by no means expected. We would hope that you would aid us in any defensive of your own lands in case of that possibility.

[oblivion6]

Klaus, Lord of all Reds-RRS[PM]
"Of course we can defend our own land! As to any possible offensives, bring it to my attention and I shall consider it on a case by case basis."

[GnomeGninjas]

To RRS[PM]
We must intervene in the free kingdoms. If we can stop the empire in its tracks there, then the free kingdoms will join us and together we can strike at the rest of the empire.

What are your talks with the dragon about? Are you trying to get it to join us against the empire?
.
We would trade the Hot Air Balloons for the Warded Armor

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To ERA (PM)
We will agree with trading Warded Armor for Hot Air Balloons.

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

My liege's current plans involve militarily aiding the Cults against House Askor. Hopefully the Empress will be unwilling to interfere immediately considering we have the justification of getting revenge for the false flag attack and to defend the sovereignty of the Thaliteans. They will also be occupied in their war with the Free Kingdoms so they hopefully won't take the offensive against either of us.

As such, we ask that you aid the Free Kingdoms in their defense against the Legions covertly. Osric wants to cripple House Askor prior to our engagement of the Empress, so the Imperials won't have the ability to fight a war from two locations, which necessitates our continued state of peace with the Empire. For now. Because of our own alliance, that means you can't go to war with them directly, which is why we ask you to do this without being discovered

This is because that even with the unified forces of the Free Kingdoms, the two of us, and the Cults, the war between that coalition and the Empire will not necessarily result in our favor and our lands will be devastated by it. Eliminating Askor prior to engaging the Empress, and saving the Free Kingdoms and Cults, is our best chance. So for at least one month, we ask that you do not engage the Empress openly.

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

The dragon is to some degree a vassal of the Shogunate. He has made agreements to allow us right of passage and building rights, as well as case by case aid to our efforts in exchange for a degree of sovereignty. We are hoping to convince him to aid us in our offensive, against Askor.

To Klaus (PM)
We are planning on deploying troops against House Askor this month. Would you be willing to help us in this?

[oblivion6]

Klaus-Shogunate[PM]
Askor? Rich people to the south? Relatively quiet folk other than the occasional war? I think I can arrange something.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate[pm]
Understood, we shall raise troops and covertly assist the free kingdoms. Could we also assist you with your attack on House Askor?

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To the ERA (PM)
We think it would be best for you to focus your efforts on the Free Kingdoms. If all goes well, the Empress won't be willing to declare war on the Shogunate both because it would open up another front in the war, as well as us having some proper justification for attacking Askor. If you become involved, they may cite that as a cause for war. Hopefully we can avoid that for at least a month...

To Klaus (PM)
Other than the occasional unjustified war and trying to start wars between myself and my allies, quiet, yes. The Rhunic have a grudge to settle with them.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
We find this plan logically.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To Klaus (PM)
Would you accept if we ventured into the Mage's Tower within your lands to retrieve any artifacts contained within?

[oblivion6]

Klaus-RRS[PM]
By all means go ahead. There are a couple mages in there that I haven't gotten around to disposing of yet so I would recomend being a fool and rushng into a slaughter...

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 9

Cults all over the continent are saying we are arriving at the end of days. War, war and more war is all that you hear about lately. Very few factions are in a position to escape this unscathed.

Edit:
Arrrr! Dozens of pirate ships now infest the sea between Imperial Ports and Nirva Island.

The Purge: House Askor continued its campaign against the Thalitean Cults, this time in the north. The unorganized masses of Cultist infantry threw themselves at House Askor fortifications and bled themselves dry. This left the Cultist lands pretty much unguarded except for the mages and elite Demonsouled warriors, while House Askor had a massive army of mercenaries freshly arriving to the front. However, that would all change when...Shogunate forces arrived to defend the Thalitean Cult! Hundreds died on both sides for the gain of...Nothing. At the end of the day, both sides had decided to pull back and recuperate.

Rumours that Klaus and a horde of kobolds had hit key economic targets across House Askor land are unconfirmed at this time.

A preemptive Attack: The Free Kingdom forces, led by the "Seven Dragons"(Leaders of Free Kingdom military forces) launched their own assault upon Imperial forces while the Legions prepared their own forces for an attack the following day. The ensuing battle was the largest armed clash in over a hundred years. Though the Free Kingdoms didn't gain any land, their real goal had been buying time for fortifications to be constructed on the border. Rumours speak of assassins slaughtering entire companies in the dead of night. Imperial authorities state these rumours are wildly exaggerated.

Eagles Point Falls: In an unexpected move, Auron has seized the free city of Eagles Point from the Silverlode Contract. Their reasons? It seems the SLC was behind the bloodbath in the Lake of Blood. Their agents sparked the war between Blood Legions and the Pegasus Mercenary Company, stirring up bandits and monsters at the same time. Aurons casualties are said to be minimal since the SLC forces seemed to be in the south training the forces of Maester Melvock.

Foreign Visitors: Rumour has it that Auron has brought in several units of trained assassins from the northern continent to serve on a permanent contract for the forseeable future. These same rumours state that these assassins can kill you with just a thought.

It is also said that he has brought in another, stranger, operative from his home on the northern continent. A dark-skinned, drake-riding dragoon that appears to be a veteran of hundreds of battles and campaigns.

Military Drills: Many factions across the continent, including the ERA and Maester Melvock are strengthening their armed forces. The Maester seems to be takiing this one step further and organizing armed militia platoons in every village in his territory.

Octavious' New Legion: General Octavious seems to have acquired a massive sum of money(more than he makes in 5 years!) and is using it to hire thousands of mercenaries.

ERA Anarchists: In several major cities, including Malarae, massive anarchist riots are erupting. Security forces put these down the best they could, but in some cases the mobs were simply too large and caused substantial damage. Evidence points to the ERA as the sole organizer and mastermind behind these riots.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8
Defensive Espionage: 11

To the ERA (9)
Are you behind these anarchists riots? You are aware that taking actions that may provoke the Empress into declaring war on you is something the Shogunate disapproves of, yes?

OOC: I know you said this in the OOC thread, but for the sake of having it in character as well.

To the Deep Trolls (7)
Any new technological developments you would be willing to trade us?

To Klaus (PM)
Thank you for your assistance with Askor. My forces will continue to engage them until they are no longer a threat. As before, we would appreciate any aid you choose to give.

To Auron (11)
What are your intentions with your attack on the SLC? Will you stop your advance at Eagle's Point, or are you planning to continue your offensive?

To the Silverlode Contract (5)
Are Auron's accusations correct? Did you spark the conflict between the Pegasus mercs and the Blood Legions?

[GnomeGninjas]

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate(9)
We are not responsible for the anarchist riots. We believe they might be an imperial attempt to make us lose popularity with the public(we lost 3 points of reputation). How did your conflict with House Askor go? Did you develop any new technologies?
To Maester Melvock(9)
We wish to tell you that we did not organize the anarchist riots. They might have been indirectly inspired by us however we believe that they were started by someone else in an attempt to make us lose popularity with the people.

[HerbieRAI]

Royal House Askor

To RRS

That was a good trick you pulled, and I will not lie it did damage us. I recommend you return home while you can hold you head high, since you have backed the wolf into the corner I will destroy you with me if you continue.


To Maester Melvock

You are a man of the faith, what do you think of the Thalitean Cults that the Shogunate supports and is trying to grow. I believe we both wish to see the cults destroyed, we need to work together to fight off the RRS before they allow the Cults to gain too much power.

To the Queen

We believe the RRS has shown their true colors, they will stop at nothing until the empire is destroyed. We know you are fighting another battle right now, but we ask that you do not trust those snakes in any way.


To the Deep Trolls

The RRS has attacked us and shown they have no qualms destroying people loyal to the empire anywhere in the country. We are warning you that you may be next on their list.


To Octavious

We have helped you in the past, we ask that you help us now. The Shogunates forces are in the south attacking our lands, will you help us defend the empire, or are your men traveling elsewhere?

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Def. Esp: 11

To Maester Melvock (9)
We marched against Askor in defense of the Thaliteans. The Shogunate will not stand idly by as people are persecuted for their religious beliefs, or while a supposed noble house attempts to expand through bloodshed.

To the Deep Trolls (7)
We marched against Askor in defense of the Thaliteans. The Shogunate will not stand idly by as people are persecuted for their religious beliefs, or while a supposed noble house attempts to expand through bloodshed.

To the ERA (9)
I am glad that you are not the one who began the riots. I would suggest you find out who did, as people will blame you until you have proof otherwise.

We have developed no new technologies since last we spoke, though we are currently researching one.

We lost a lot of good men in the defense of the Cults... The Rhunic only hope our fallen brought as many of Askor's men with them to the end.

To House Askor (5)
You started this when you hired Foundation golems to attack the Shogunate in the hopes of starting a war.

And you call us snakes after your false flag attempt? After your invasion of the Emporium that you only justified when you decided to end your offensive? And even now as you seek to destroy a sovereign people for the sake of expansion?

No, we will see this through to the end. Our ancestors will judge our side as the righteous one. As the one who seeks to protect the people of this continent from those who would do them harm.

[GnomeGninjas]

To Reborn Rhunic Shogunate(9)
We believe we have a Casus Belli to help you in your war against House Askor. They are attempting to get General Octavius to help them in there war against the Thaliteans. General Octavius is a war criminal and an enemy of the ERA, we could intervene to stop his troops. We had believed that our military might be necessary for a counter-invaision of the Free Kingdoms, this no longer seems to be the case. The Free Kingdoms are more then able to repel the imperial troops.
To Maester Melvock(9)
Royal House Askor has requested you to help them in the war against the Thaliteans. We understand that they are heretics, however they will not see the value of your religion if it is forced upon them by the sword. They will move beyond their demon-worship if they see your faith as a peaceful and more ethical religion, not if you support an army attempting to take their freedom.

[oblivion6]

Maester-Public
The faith of Maester Melvock will NOT interfere in this war between House Askor and the Thalitean Cults and their allies. No matter how you spin it, this war is clearly being fought to further the political agenda of all involved and I shall not become entangled in it by commiting any resources to aiding any one side. However, we shall be doing our best to help those displaced by the war should both sides agree to not harry my people.

Queen-House Askor
I never have trusted them. Thank you for the warning though.

I will see about diverting a couple intelligence divisions or a legion your way.

Octavious-House Askor
I planned on moving my forces to restoring order within the Imperial City and other key locations after the anarchists swept through.

Queen-ERA
You better hope you are not behind this. I plan to investigate this matter at my earliest convenience.

Auron-RRS
My crusade will continue until two things happen: First, they abandon all influence within the Lake of Blood and second...their leaders get their skulls crushed beneath my boots.

Silverlode Contract
We won't deny it. We were indeed behind it and we are proud of it. It opened up all sorts of contracts for us. If that red-cloaked bastard wishes a fight then a fight is what he shall have.

Klaus-RRS[PM]
Good loot was found last month. My aid you shall have.

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA to Queen
We wish you the greatest luck with your investigation.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Def. Esp: 11

To the ERA (9)
This is our war for justice against Askor. While we would normally ask you don't interfere, the Empress has decided to aid the House, so we see no reason for you to not. Whatever you can provide will be appreciated.

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 10

[I feel like something may be missing..]

Civil War! A simple war between the Thalitean Cults and House Askor appears to have erupted into a full-scale civil war. This month, both the Shogunate and House Askor, deployed considerable forces. However, thats not all, for soon, the ERA arrived with a massive army and allowed the Shogunate troops and Cult mages to completely overrun the fortifications of House Askor and swarm in.

It very well could have been the end, were it not for the timely arrival of Imperial forces driving back the indvaders to pre-war borders. Rumours speak of Empress Luserina personally rallying the fleeing mercs of House Askor.

Fortifications: The Free Kingdoms, suprisingly, are free of having to deal with Imperial attacks and are expanding their fortifications.

Subversions: The Shogunate has succesfully organized the joining of the Spinning Coin Emporium with their own economic base. Their lead in terms of industrial might and sheer coin is yet again growing.

The mages of the easternmost tower also appear to have sworn fealty to them.

Auron's War: Sir Auron, supported by the dragoon hired from the northern continent, led his forces to victory over the forces of the SLC this month. Though vastly outnumbered in terms of numerical superiority, Auron's soldiers are much better trained and SLC forces are thrown in chaos when their leaders are found dead, killed by Auron's assassins. He easilly captures the remainder of the Contracts land and eliminates most of their soldiers.

Those few squadrons not completely destroyed are said to have been smuggled into the service of Maester Melvock. Auron has grudgingly agreed to let them live.

Eastern Raiders: The pirate fleets that were raiding the coast and shipping-lanes appear to have stepped up their raids, further damaging the economy. Rumours speak of foreign powers trying to buy up the pirates for themselves. Silly loose-lipped pirates and sailors not keeping their mouth shut.

Anarchist Movement: Somehow, the anarchist movements have gained strength despite the forces of General Octavious violently stamping them out, even gathering strength in the countryside. Despite the ERAs protests, Imperial investigations have uncovered evidence suggesting the ERA was, and is, indeed supporting the movement.

Perhaps in relation to this, attempts by the ERA to rebuild their public image appear to have been sabotaged.

[GnomeGninjas]

Enlightened Revolutionary Army (ESP-D:9)

To Free Kingdoms
As you are probably aware we have joined in the Askor-Thalitean war. If you wish to help us then you could march through our lands to get your troops there. If the Queen is defeated there then it would be quite a blow to imperial moral.
To Maester Mevlock
We would like you to help us. As you know, our reputation has been damaged by these riots, since you are now the most loved faction on the continent your endorsement of us could make a huge difference in public opinion. Thank you.
To Anarchists
We are impressed with the strength of your movement and sympathize with you cause, however your riots a causing us to lose our public image. We would like to speak to some of the movers and shakers of your movement.
To RRS
How has the war been going for you?

[oblivion6]

Free Kingdoms-ERA
The Council of Generals has met and decided that we simply can't spare the soldiers to fight on a second front within the Empire itself. We barely have the forces to man our walls and defend against the vastly superior force arrayed against us, let alone mount an offensive.

Maester-ERA
I will see what I can do, but you must understand that I can't directly support you for the time being. If I publically endorsed you at this stage then it could turn public opinion against me as well and we can't have that, now can we? I personally don't believe you are supporting this, but the evidence is quite convincing...

Anarchists-ERA[PM]
The Anarchists do indeed send someone to meet with you. This someone seemed to be an odd choice when considering the typical anarchist involved in the riots: She was a rather short woman and wore a translucent silken gown that revealed more of her body than public decency generally allowed; The guards that let her in to meet with you followed her every move with undisguised lust.

"Greetings. My name is not important right now, but you may call me, Kitten. I am one of the leaders of the Anarchist Movement in Malarae. I hear you wanted to speak with me, handsome? For more than just business, I hope?"

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA to Free Kingdoms
We understand your position and do not blame you for it. During our war with 1st legion people were asking for our help but we didn't have the troops for it.
ERA to Maester
We understand that you cannot directly support us. We thank you for whatever you can do.
ERA to Anarchists [pm]
The ERA representative is rather taken aback. Why hello Kitten. I am pleased to make your acquaintance. I came on a business matter but I suppose that we could do other things after the business is done?

As you are probably aware the anarchist riots are incredibly damaging to the ERAs reputation and to anarchy's reputation as well. I to am an anarchist –though as an ERA representative I represent other revolutionary ideas as well– and believe anarchy to be the ultimate form of freedom, though we are seen by others as violent, undisciplined criminals. Rioting for the sake of destroying property does little to improve that reputation. I propose an alternative method: You take a section of the city where you are most numerous and seal it off. Live their happily, help each other, love each other, work hard and be free. Do not follow imperial laws but do not go out of your way to break them. When the Royal bitch sends her thugs to try and take your freedom merely defend yourselves. The other citizens will see that anarchy is not a violent mob and that it is the imperials who are the true thugs.

Evidence points to the ERA as the initiators of the riots. We know that we did not initiate the riots, we believe that once they started somebody tried to blame us for them, or possible someone riled up the righteous anger of anarchists under the guise of an ERA operative, what are your thoughts on the matter?

[oblivion6]

Anarchists-ERA[PM]
Kitten laughed, but then her face turned serious. [color="lime"]The problem with taking a section of the Imperial City is that the Ghosts, and their hounds in the Legion, would be on us like maggots to s***. Especially that devil, General Octavious.

As to who is supposedly framing you, I really can not say. It really does appear that it is the ERA--Or atleast a part of it--that is aiding us. Several wealthy traders from your organization are supplying us. I can provide you with their names if you wish?

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA to Anarchists [pm]We could help protect you if you seal off a section of the city.

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To the ERA (8)
My men keep dying and we have made no gains. So not well. Though it would have gone much worse without your aid, and we thank you for your support.

I would also suggest you be wary of the Maester. It is possible he has a hand in the anarchist movement to make himself the most beloved figure of the continent. There was some evidence of his involvement in the southern rebellion in the months after the Emperor's assassination.

To the Deep Trolls (8)
Do you have anymore technologies you would be willing to trade us? We have developed a number since our last exchange.

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate

Currently we are working on photo-voltaics and might have something intresting in the next few months.

[GnomeGninjas]

ERA to Reborn Rhunic Shogunate[8]
The Maester very well could have had a hand in the riots, it doesn't matter now. The riots have destroyed our reputation, nothing we can say now can fix it. Now we only hope that the riots will be a major pain in the Empire's side.

We have a few questions about the war:
1) Do you want to continue?
2)Is it true the Klaus is allied with you? Do you think he could help with the war effort?
3)Should we use more of our agents to help the Thaliteans or should we use them for another purpose, perhaps in collaboration with your agents?

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 8

To the Deep Trolls (8)
Good to know. If you ever are interested in trading technologies, we are always willing to hear it.

To the ERA (8)
Klaus is an ally of the Shogunate, yes. He has engaged in a few raids on Askor during the course of the war, but has not fought on the front lines as of yet. I do not really expect him to do so, however.

Our people will be going against Askor until either they or us are destroyed. The Rhunic do not forget nor forgive grievances. As well, the Cults will not be safe until the House is through. So we will gladly accept any assistance in the war you're willing to offer.

[oblivion6]

Beginning of Turn 11

A much needed break: In the war between the Empire and the Anti-Imperials, neither side makes any moves other than a few occasional raids across the border. On the actual battlefield atleast. Things might have been different had the ERA offensive actually hit its target, but rumours speak of a small contigent of Legionaries preventing them from reaching the area.

Elsewhere, Askor spies target Shogunate economic facilities across the north and even blockades the port of the Spinning Coin. Meanwhile, Shogunate assassins spread chaos behind the lines

Rise of the Militias Rumours suggest that both the ERA and even the Deep Trolls military capabilities have greatly increased.

Earthquakes... An increasing number of tremors and larger earthquakes are being reported across the continent. Though many of these tremors don't affect any major population centers, people are worried that a larger quake may strike at anytime. Rumours say that some of Klaus' tunnels have collapsed, as have a few of his warrens, causing hundreds of goblins and kobolds to flee their masters grasp.

Shogunate Expansion: Both the Merchants Haven and the remainder of the Thalitean Cults have sworn allegiance to the Reborn Rhunic Shogunate.

Anarchist Riots: General Octavious and the reestablished 1st Legion has succesfully put down the anarchists in the major imperial cities.

Murder: Dozens of merchants are being found dead in sea ports across the east. Its unknown who is behind this.

[As always let me know if I missed something you believe should be public, but I think I actually got it all.]

[Nemesis67]

Reborn Rhunic Shogunate
Morale: 9

To the ERA (9)
Everything we have will be going against Askor this month. Klaus will probably be dealing with domestic concerns, so we ask you for as large of a force as you can rally. They must pay for their crimes.

-Emperor Osric