[Empire] The Third Raaneki Games, year 377 [Archive]

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-02, 10:28 PM

The Third Raaneki Games
-Summer, 377-

All Guests note - any alliances or trades or betrothals can be merged into your action of attending the games, so long as you summarize all occurrences in your action post.

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With the joined voices of Lady Lomadi and Lord Ujval Devdano, Masters of Raaneka, may all the realms lend ear!

The first Lord and Lady of Raaneka ruled for fifteen years, and great contests of prowess were held at their coronation and their abdication. These games have repeated themselves every fifteen years for centuries, and in the summer of 377, on the six longest days of the year, the Raaneki Games shall be held yet again. The Raaneki are eager to receive you in peace, and our athletes eager to compete. Come one and all, to partake of our hospitality and our fabled wine.

The Raaneki Games shall begin in the capitol, Bandar of Many Colors. They will conclude in the city of Sarab.

Signed,

Lomadi and Ujval Devdano
Lady and Lord of Raaneka
Bright Glory, Dark Wine
Wisdom and Generosity

All regents in attendance are invited to dwell in the homes of wealthy Raaneki for the duration of their stay. Contestants may remain in the company of their regents, or may dwell in any home that accepts them.

Demonstration events from any realm are welcome. They serve as an opportunity for a culture to show off their most prized feats in a noncompetitive atmosphere.

Lady and Lord advised the Raaneki to clothe themselves so as not to offend visiting foreigners, but made no demands. Perhaps four of every five Raaneki are wearing clothing. They are a famously relaxed and affectionate people, and love nothing more than to share wine and hospitality with visitors.

Locations
Bandar Harbor:
Like a crashing wave, great blocks of blue and white stone formed the stadium of Bandar Harbor. Bleachers of pale green stone provided seating for 30,000, including luxurious box seating for foreign regents and the Lady and Lord of Raaneka. The harbor itself was large enough for two forces of three ships each. Though built for the Games, it was home to Bandar’s sea trade at all other times.

Mounted Racecourse:
Filling the second, third, and fourth days of the Games, athletes mounted a trusted steed to race almost two hundred miles from the gates of Bandar of Many Colors to the gates of Sarab. There were three legs to the journey: the treacherous Painted Coast, the sublime Lower Berrylands, and the final climb to Sarab.

Raaneka Stadium:
The field of grass was long enough to hold the ranged tournament, and wide enough for the mass melee. A long track of raised earth encircled the field for the foot race. A platform of and stone was raised in the center for the field for dueling, wrestling, and demonstrations of worthy skills. Victors were crowned in glory upon it.

The stadium was raised in purple sandstone on the field’s southern edge. Audiences looked out from under shaded awnings, as the Upper Berrylands and the Mountains of Dis beyond framed the field of play in majesty. Golden-yellow sandstone benches provided seating for 30,000 spectators, again with luxurious box seating for foreign regents and the Lady and Lord of Raaneka.

The Victors’ Plaza was erected outside the stadium in pure white stone. It was ringed by the statues of crowned victors and many warm taverns. A huge statue of a Berunda, wrought of gold and gems, topped a fountain at its center. Here many streamers were hung and many kites unfurled, and all manner of revelry and celebration found in its welcoming arms.

Schedule
Day 1
Revelry in the streets of Bandar of Many Colors

Day 2
Mock Naval Battle in Bandar Harbor
Mounted Race begins at the gates of Bandar

Day 3
Ranged Tournament at Raaneka Stadium
Duel Tournament at Raaneka Stadium
Mass Melee at Raaneka Stadium
Mounted Race through the Lower Berrylands
Demonstration Events

Day 4
Caragita at Raaneka Stadium (foot race, long jump, javelin throw, wrestling)
Mounted Race ends at the gates of Sarab

Day 5
Art Contest at Raaneka Stadium Plaza

Day 6
Revelry in the streets of Sarab

Event Descriptions
Arts Contest: Any craft or display of art may be submitted. Prize awarded for finest skill and overall beauty.

Caragita: A contest in four parts: foot race, long jump, javelin throw, and wrestling. Prizes awarded for individual events. Prize for best overall is the highest honor of the Games.

Duel Tournament: Any blunted weapons may be used. Prize awarded to the character with the best win/lose/draw record. Please organize your own 1v1 matches.

Demonstration Events: Noncompetitive display of any cultural artifact (e.g. weapons styles, poetry, etc.).

Mass Melee: Party-based combat against all realms from other parties. Prize awarded to the last party standing.

Mock Naval Battle: Two forces of three ships face off in Bandar Harbor. Prize awarded to the character with the best win/lose/draw record. Please organize your own 1v1 matches.

Mounted Race: A race in three parts from Bandar to Sarab. Any landborne mount may be used. Prize awarded to the first to enter the gates of the city.

Ranged Tournament: Any ranged weapons may be used. Prize awarded to the character with the best win/lose/draw record. Please organize your own 1v1 matches.

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Event Mechanics

Event
Roll 2d6+...
# of Rolls
Victory Condition

Arts Contest
1/2 Curiosity (rounded up)
1
Highest Result

Caragita
1/2 Military (rounded up)
4 (Foot Race, Long Jump, Javelin Throw, Wrestling)
Highest individual and highest cumulative results

Demonstration Events
None
None
None

Duel Tournament
1/2 Military (rounded up)
3 (Rounds 1, 2, and 3)
Best 2/3

Mass Melee
Military
3 (Assaults 1, 2, and 3)
Best 2/3

Mounted Race
1/2 Military (rounded up)
3 (Legs 1, 2, and 3)
Highest Cumulative Result

Naval Battle
Military
3 (Sorties 1, 2, and 3)
Best 2/3

Ranged Tournament
1/2 Military (rounded up)
3 (Rounds 1, 2, and 3)
Best 2/3

Instructions
For the tournaments, the melee, and the naval battle, challenge as many people as you would like and resolve each 3-round bout individually. Victory goes to the greatest number of successful bouts.

For all other events, roll the indicated number of times. Everyone competes in a single contest, as opposed to the challenge method above.

Feel free to ask me about any rules clarifications (or suggest changes! This is still a rough draft).

Embrace the Anachronism
Feel free to make all of your rolls for the events as soon as you’d like. In the interest of letting people RP whatever they’d like, I think it’s a good idea to free ourselves from linear time. Your first post could be about something at the end of the Games or vice versa. Go nuts!

---
Standings

Realm
Arts
Caragita
Duel (W/L/D)
Mass Melee
Mounted Race
Naval (W/L/D)
Ranged (W/L/D)

Greta Cardion Divinorum
-
-
1/2/1
-
-
-
-

Hurosha Empire
-
-
3/1/1
-
-
-
0/1/0

Jeweled Cities
12
14/11/14/11 (50)
1/0/2
40
29
-
0/1/0

Lyradis
15
11/8/12/10 (41)
0/1/0
35
28
14/15/12
1/0/0

Raaneka
14
13/7/9/6 (35)
1/1/1
41
22
7/6/16
2/0/1

Razdis
-
8/7/11/14 (40)
0/1/1
-
42
-
-

Sympolemou
10
-
2/2/0
47
37
-
1/0/0

Wenyavuk
12
7/6/6/7 (30)
-
-
25
-
0/1/0

Current Leader
Lyradis
Jeweled Cities
Hurosha
Sympolemou
Razdis
Lyradis
Raaneka

---
Awards
In addition to whatever awards are given by their nations, victorious contestants will receive a crown made of berry vines, one years' store of Raaneki wine, and a life-size statue of their likeness in the Victors’ Plaza.
Arts Contest:
Painting of the Painted Coast, Lyradis
Caragita:
Cascade "Casca" Pitch, AQUA
Duel Tournament:
Grïend of Gwrîstîn, Huroshi Empire
Mass Melee:
Sympolemou
Mounted Race:
Princess Uristine, Razdis
Mock Naval Battle:
Lyradis
Ranged Tournament:
Prince Avam Devdano, Raaneka

Roll of Champions
These proud and doughty champions have earned victory and glory in the games of the past. Their likenesses surround the plaza outside the stadium in Sarab.
Arts Contest:
Papa Raana, Raaneka , 2nd Games
Anonymous, Lyradis, 3rd Games
Caragita:
Princess Anguri Adite, Raaneka, 2nd Games
Cascade "Casca" Pitch, AQUA, 3rd Games
Duel Tournament:
Trumbo Bashskull, Grmanhil, 2nd Games
Grïend of Gwrîstîn, Huroshi Empire, 3rd Games
Mass Melee:
Raaneka, 2nd Games
Sympolemou, 3rd Games
Mounted Race:
Prince Tikta Satato, Raaneka, 2nd Games
Princess Uristine, Razdis, 3rd Games
Mock Naval Battle:
Raaneka, 2nd Games
Lyradis, 3rd Games
Ranged Tournament:
Prince Tikta Satato, Raaneka, 2nd Games
Prince Avam Devdano, Raaneka, 3rd Games

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-03, 10:32 AM

DAY ONE

Banners of Nyrothian silk and bells of Guilderene bronze bedecked the city of Bandar of Many Colors. The Raaneki were out in force, filling every tavern with the playing of music and the pouring of wine in all the colors of the rainbow. Laughter and the aroma of fine foods masked more pleasurable sounds and scents, themselves drifting out of shaded alcoves and private courtyards. It was midsummer's day, and rains from the previous days seemed to have renewed the land like only rain could.

"They must come," retorted Princess Anguri Adite, prowling around the dais like a tigress. The devastation of war had walked hand in hand with the devastation of plague in recent years. The heralds wondered aloud whether the people of Telluris would attend the Raaneki Games with such dire matters at hand.

"If they come," replied her Lord and brother, Ujval Devdano, "We shall entertain them and welcome their sport."

His wife, the Lady Lomadi, waved to the crowds with her goblet in hand. "And if they do not, well, we have done our part to relieve the suffering of this world." She was radiantly drunk, a picture of joy and beauty. Her trade empire had been booming since their agreement with Guilder. Her slender figure had grown voluptuous in her success.

The royal family looked out upon the crowd, noting athletes from Razdis and Wenyavuk among them. Many taverns, cottages, and warehouses--each raised with stones of a different color--embraced the scene like the arms of a lover. The mighty wave of Bandar Stadium rose up behind them, looming over the harbor in readiness for the naval battle on the following day.

Lady and Lord approached the edge of the dais, joined hands, and raised them high. "Welcome, one and all," they said as one, "to the Third Raaneki Games! May the following days reward all prowess and subtlety, and may no goblet be empty long! Let the Games begin!"

Silverbit

2014-04-03, 01:39 PM

The Razdissi party arrived, fresh from the mountains. Captured Salterri banners were waved, alongside victorious clan standards. Wagons filled with worked Mithril trundled along, and in the vanguard a hovercraft containing Mormaer Razkai, Prince Vali and Princess Uristine floated. The Mormaer sported his decorated crown and a Mithril eyepatch, and Vali was arrayed in arrow-patterned robes.

"Hail good people of Raaneka! We come bearing gifts, trade proposals, and proud athletes! Hail to Raaneka! Hail to the Unbroken Line! Hail to peace!"

After the dwarves rolled in, Razkai approached the Lord and Lady.
"I understand we have proposals, both of trade and of marriage, to discuss."

aspi

2014-04-03, 04:33 PM

If it had not been for the half dozen mammoths, it would have been next to impossible to identify the colorfully clothed procession which arrived in Bandar on the first day of the games as the Na'nuk delegation. Their clothing was fashioned from the finest spun threads and seemed to only serve the two dozen men an women as protection from the sun. Yet as they drew closer, their glistening foreheads and straggly hair revealed that even this light clothing was too much in the heat of a southern summer. Näiyop and Bekya, who had grown into a young woman since her last trip south, rode on the leading mammoth. Behind them followed Anya and Inaun, each on their own, smaller mastodon, leading the Na'nuk athletes and artisans. Man and animal alike seemed to sigh in unison as they reached the shaded area of the city and relished the refreshments they were given by the Raaneki.

For the Razdissi:
On the second day of the games, Näiyop approaches the Razdissi delegation in the company of his daughter. He bows politely and greets them "Mormaer Razkai, I believe I have not had the pleasure of meeting you yet. I am Näiyop an Kal of Wenyavuk and this is my daughter Bekya. I have heard tales of the battles you fought in past years and see it is so. I am glad that you emerged victorious, so that we can meet on this day in person. The Na'nuk owe you a debt for providing us with your bronze workmanship during these past years. Without it, I would never have been able to care as well for my people."

After the introduction, he inquires "I saw that you arrived with samples of the metal you call mithril. As I understand it, it is very light yet durable? Please forgive me if I am asking for something you do not wish to trade, but would it be possible to acquire mithril plates made to specification from the Razdissi? The Na'nuk have recently begun to use sleighs to transport goods across the ice, yet ice easily abrades wooden runners and even those made of steel. Mithril may be a better choice for this, and we would gladly trade our mammoths or their ivory, meat or fur for such plates."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-03, 11:10 PM

The Razdissi party arrived, fresh from the mountains.

*snip*

After the dwarves rolled in, Razkai approached the Lord and Lady.
"I understand we have proposals, both of trade and of marriage, to discuss."

Lady Lomadi approached and embraced the Mormaer as Lord Ujval embraced Grelod. "Welcome!" they said. The gifts were graciously accepted and the athletes welcomed with bottles of wine and ushered off to the taverns. "Trade indeed!" Lord Ujval laughed and clapped the Mormaer on the shoulder. "As for that, I have an eye for the mithral you've brought, and the means to forge it. My sister, Princess Anguri the Golden, would girt her Raaneki Berunda against flame and murder, but the armor must be light as a feather." Lady and Lord guided the Mormaer and his wife to a shaded pile of cushions, where wine and food was waiting. "As for marriage, our nephew, David Satato, is a fine diplomat, and has been our envoy to the Union of the North for seven years. He desires a wife, but has left it to us to choose." Lord Ujval chuckled. "Ever the civil servant. Still, I know he has many fond companions among the Sulvan dwarves. Perhaps you would like a kinswoman in the north to assure the people of your care in rulership? Who better than David's wife?"

Lord Ujval drank deep of his Sarabi Summer, an emerald green wine that brightened the mind for revelry. Lady Lomadi lounged beside him, sipping at the same. "What are your thoughts on these things, Mormaer? And Grelod, what have you to say?"

If it had not been for the half dozen mammoths, it would have been next to impossible to identify the colorfully clothed procession which arrived in Bandar on the first day of the games as the Na'nuk delegation. Their clothing was fashioned from the finest spun threads and seemed to only serve the two dozen men an women as protection from the sun. Yet as they drew closer, their glistening foreheads and straggly hair revealed that even this light clothing was too much in the heat of a southern summer. Näiyop and Bekya, who had grown into a young woman since her last trip south, rode on the leading mammoth. Behind them followed Anya and Inaun, each on their own, smaller mastodon, leading the Na'nuk athletes and artisans. Man and animal alike seemed to sigh in unison as they reached the shaded area of the city and relished the refreshments they were given by the Raaneki.

The Nanuk were greeted by wide fans and gentle cushions. The wine was made of sunberries, refreshing as a spring breeze when chilled. The fine clothes of the Nanuk were praised by the Raaneki. Several gave gifts of wine and jewelry for the privilege of seeing the bright garments. In time, Lady Lomadi and Lord Ujval made their way over. "Inaun!" Lady Lomadi said, embracing the Nanuk. "Old friend. How have the years been?"

lt_murgen

2014-04-04, 12:29 PM

Unlike the first games, this one was well attended by the Islanders. With them was a large group of Quill. They had travelled from their new port city in Woodwind all the way across the continent. Travel was comfortable inside the howdha the mammoths carried. It was like being on the forecastle of a small ship. The carrying capacity of the creatures was impressive, as long as it wasn’t fruit. Evelyn warned them of that mistake early; the creatures positively craved the stuff.
Amber was in attendance, as were her twins Tempest and Jonas. As always, her man Iaz hovered nearby. Several Shamans of the Wild and Quill Senior council members were in attendance as well, along with a small group of mixed Islander / Quill soldiers.
Amber found a nice location along the coasts for their entourage. The mammoths seemed to enjoy the water, as did the Islanders. Most of the group found their way to the various taverns and inns in Bandar.

Amber and her family made her way to the Royal Family’s location. She was anxious to see them. When she arrived, she greeted the Lord and Lady politely. But it was to Anguri she gave the warmest welcome
”Cousin!” She screamed throwing her arms wide. Over twenty years had passed since Anguri was the little kid tagging along with Amber and her sister. Still, they had maintained a good friendship and correspondence over the years. She still considered Anguri like family.

NEW Link to NEW Dice Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17251989&postcount=209)

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-04, 01:00 PM

Silverbit

2014-04-04, 08:45 PM

For the Na'nuk:
"Ah, Näiyop, it is regrettable that we were not introduced sooner. The amber your people have so generously provided is ample payment for the bronze; I am glad to know that you have made good use of it. My apologies, but the Mithril is spoken for, as of the present. If any further veins are unearthed, I shall send messages to your court first. I treasure the friendship between our two peoples."

For the Raaneki:
"My thanks for your hospitality! I had the privilege of seeing the Berunda flights in action, in the skies of Hrathan-Tuor. As for the Mithril; yes, I believe it will be suitable. My legions are arrayed in the stuff, and it is apparently light as silk. Consider it traded. Ah, David Satato. I have heard his name, and he would be a fine match for my niece, Uristine."
The Mormaer indicates a short Razdissi female, with hip-length coal-black hair. She is partaking in the Raaneki drinks, and will later take part in the equestrian event, riding a sturdy Razdissi horse.
"She is not of the direct line of succession under Razdissi law, and thus will be honoured to make the acquaintance of David. The Unbroken Line is enriched by Raaneki blood."

OOC:
Slight correction, it's Uristine he's brought, not Grelod. Grelod is his wife, and Uristine is his (unmarried) niece. Easy mistake to make, all dwarves look the same :smalltongue:.

Rolls! (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17253776#post17253776)

lt_murgen

2014-04-05, 09:59 AM

Princess Anguri let out a joyous yelp at the sight of Regina Amber. She wrapped her arms around her cousin, lifted her into the air and spun her around, then slapped her on the rear. She was never one to stand on ceremony. "Amber! You old sea dog. It's high time someone with a little fire showed up to these Games."

Another Raaneki woman, taller than Anguri but not quite as fierce, stood at Anguri's side. "Have you met Seri, Amber?" Princess Anguri chuckled. "They'd call her a 'mistress' in the wide world, and they'd call that a crime." Seri grinned mischievously. "We've just been calling it 'fun' these past--what is it, Seri--fifteen years?"

"Fourteen, my love," Seri responded with a voice like iron. "Wouldn't want to make Krama jealous." That must have been quite a joke among the Raaneki, to hear Anguri's laughter.

((Figured I'd leave it open-ended for ya. We can RP the rolls whenevah, but what can I say? I like introductions. :smalltongue:))

Link to Dice Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17251763#post17251763)

Disengaging from Anguri, Amber looked Seri up and down. "You always did have excellent taste, Anguri. No harm in a little fun." She elbowed the tall, burly man beside her. "Right Iaz?" THe man replied simply with a wry smile.

"I should introduce everyone. Princess, your remember Iaz? He was that young militia man that took so well to the training way back when you were staying with us. He's been by my side ever since. I always said praise and trust builds devotion." She gave her man a quick hig. [b]"And these are our children Tempest and Jonas. They both just turned eleven." Both were tall and lean, like their father, with the blue/purple hair of their mother. Tempest had her mother's copper eyes, while Jonas favored her father's coal black. Both wore the elegantly decorated hats, open-front short sleeved jackets, breeches, and slippers that matched their parents. Anguri knew from experience that the silk and jeweled jackets were as close to 'formal' attire as the Islanders got.

She turned and gestured to the remaining pair, who bowed as they were introduced. "The dour woamn in the traditional headdress and shawl is an earth Shaman named Coral, a wise traveller to be certatin. The tall, gorgeous, dark skinned man is from our cousin the Quill's Elder Council. He prefers the name Talon."

As Anguri looks at both of them, she notices that the Quill man is extensively covered in geometric patterns inked onto his skin.

http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb375/Imagination97/Sagamore_zpse09b5eef.png

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-05, 02:04 PM

For the Raaneki:
"My thanks for your hospitality! I had the privilege of seeing the Berunda flights in action, in the skies of Hrathan-Tuor. As for the Mithril; yes, I believe it will be suitable. My legions are arrayed in the stuff, and it is apparently light as silk. Consider it traded. Ah, David Satato. I have heard his name, and he would be a fine match for my niece, Uristine."
The Mormaer indicates a short Razdissi female, with hip-length coal-black hair. She is partaking in the Raaneki drinks, and will later take part in the equestrian event, riding a sturdy Razdissi horse.
"She is not of the direct line of succession under Razdissi law, and thus will be honoured to make the acquaintance of David. The Unbroken Line is enriched by Raaneki blood."

OOC:
Slight correction, it's Uristine he's brought, not Grelod. Grelod is his wife, and Uristine is his (unmarried) niece. Easy mistake to make, all dwarves look the same :smalltongue:.

Rolls! (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17253776#post17253776)

Lord Ujval flourished and kissed Uristine's hand. "My dear, welcome! I am eager to see the merits of your cave horse in the race. My brother, Prince Tikta, was the race champion of the Second Games," he smiled at his memory, "when he was a younger man! All the same, I wish you well!" He offered his arm, intent to lead the Princess on a tour through the finest delicacies at the table.

Lady Lomadi took the Mormaer by the arm and angled him toward the crowd. "Look," she said, smiling out upon pipers, fiddlers, and drummers, upon long tables of rich food and drink. "Under the summer sun, here we see many nations mingling with laughter and song. Raaneki Heartwine fills every goblet. We thank you for the gift of your mithral, and the protection it will bring to those whom we love. If you will accept, we would share the bliss of our Heartwine in return."

Princess Uristine made such a showing in the mounted race that Prince Tikta, whom she had sorely beaten, was the loudest voice to demand that her statue be placed next to his own. He embraced her gladly, and is rumored to have whispered "What skill! A finer daughter-in-law I could never hope to find!"

Whoops! :smallbiggrin:

Disengaging from Anguri, Amber looked Seri up and down. "You always did have excellent taste, Anguri. No harm in a little fun." She elbowed the tall, burly man beside her. "Right Iaz?" THe man replied simply with a wry smile.

"I should introduce everyone. Princess, your remember Iaz? He was that young militia man that took so well to the training way back when you were staying with us. He's been by my side ever since. I always said praise and trust builds devotion." She gave her man a quick hig. [b]"And these are our children Tempest and Jonas. They both just turned eleven." Both were tall and lean, like their father, with the blue/purple hair of their mother. Tempest had her mother's copper eyes, while Jonas favored her father's coal black. Both wore the elegantly decorated hats, open-front short sleeved jackets, breeches, and slippers that matched their parents. Anguri knew from experience that the silk and jeweled jackets were as close to 'formal' attire as the Islanders got.

She turned and gestured to the remaining pair, who bowed as they were introduced. "The dour woamn in the traditional headdress and shawl is an earth Shaman named Coral, a wise traveller to be certatin. The tall, gorgeous, dark skinned man is from our cousin the Quill's Elder Council. He prefers the name Talon."

As Anguri looks at both of them, she notices that the Quill man is extensively covered in geometric patterns inked onto his skin.

http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb375/Imagination97/Sagamore_zpse09b5eef.png

Anguri and Seri both looked long and slow at as much of Talon as they could manage. Seri let out a low whistle. "Ay," Anguri muttered to Seri. "What's he doing tonight?"

Gathering herself, Anguri turned first to the children. "Cousins!" She launched herself at the twins, scooping them up and bounding around with them. "So big!" She set them down and touched Tempest's hair, marveling at the resemblance to her niece, Hansi. "Amber, what would you say to a duel? You and me? Like old times?"

((I think this the first duel in the history of the Games to result in a draw! :smallbiggrin:))

Silverbit

2014-04-05, 02:35 PM

Uristine smiles and takes his arm.
"Aye, I'll try to do well. Razdissi horses are slow, but steady; once they start moving, they don't stop."

"Heartwine… this would indeed be an honour. My people already privately purchase what they can of the substance, but importing it; Raaneka ever proves themselves the allies of Razdis. My thanks."

Uristine is slightly surprised by her success; she never expected to win. Nevertheless, she takes the crown with honour, and the supply of Heartwine too.

lt_murgen

2014-04-05, 02:39 PM

"It would be bad form to deny the hostess a chance to embarass herself. Amber said challengingly, but her eyes sparkled. "Of course we'll duel. You might even stand a chance, as age is your ally now."

"But that is not for today! Today is a time for drinking, for revelry, and for renewing old friendships. With your permission, we will take our leave."

On her way out, she turned back with a coy smile, "I'm sure Talon's curiosity for the cultures of other's will find... satisfaction here."

<<Later that day>>
The AQUA delegation approached the Radazzi later on in the day. They were carrying baskets of tropical fruit and handing out samples with great abandon to the milling crowd.

"Mormaer Razkai, Prince Vali and Princess Uristine. Greetings! Amber bowed gracefully. She took the opportunity to introduce herself and her party, far more formally than she had greeted the hosts. "Please accept these gifts of our tropical bounty as a gesture of friendship.

"I witnessed the prowess of your people in the battle with the Salterri. Your reputations are most well deserved. [b]

[B]<<Even later>>
Later still, the AQUA party found their way to the Wenyavuk pavillion. It was easy, as the mammoths were rumbling loud and low. Amber introduced herself and her group once again.

"I wish to personally thank you for your wonderful creatures. My sister Evelyn tells me that they are indispensible for building our port, the Emerald City. We rode several here. They are truly remarkable.

Jonas, Amber's son, blurted out "They are totally awesome! The little carriages on top are like riding on a ship in a storm!" His sister chimed in, "And they're so fluffy and friendly!

aspi

2014-04-06, 10:30 AM

The Nanuk were greeted by wide fans and gentle cushions. The wine was made of sunberries, refreshing as a spring breeze when chilled. The fine clothes of the Nanuk were praised by the Raaneki. Several gave gifts of wine and jewelry for the privilege of seeing the bright garments. In time, Lady Lomadi and Lord Ujval made their way over. "Inaun!" Lady Lomadi said, embracing the Nanuk. "Old friend. How have the years been?"

The Na'nuk were pleasantly surprised by the chilled wine and immediately felt more at home than any time during their trip to Raaneka. With the coolness of the wine masking the spirits it contained, many of the Na'nuk enjoyed it a trifle too much and were soon in high spirits and befriending the Raaneki. Näiyop drank in strict moderation, well remembering his last encounter with Raaneki spirits... there would be time for that later.

As Lady Lomadi and Lord Ujval arrived, Inaun smiled widely and welcomed them warmly. He chuckled "Old friend? You might be onto something there." He brushed aside a lock of his hair that was becoming increasingly more salt than pepper in color and grinned "Either these mammoths are becoming more uncomfortable year by year or I am getting too old for this." With a glance to the rest of the delegation he continued "I believe you remember Bekya? She insisted on competing in the Caragita and has been training rigurously. You may also remember Ania from our visit to Sanctuary all those years ago. She's our advisor of trade now and I am confident that I convinced her of the benefits of finding some way to ensure that we don't have to wait several years inbetween servings of Raaneki wine and food. I'm sure she'd like to talk to you about that" he grinned again, raising his cup "After we have properly arrived!"

For the Na'nuk:
"Ah, Näiyop, it is regrettable that we were not introduced sooner. The amber your people have so generously provided is ample payment for the bronze; I am glad to know that you have made good use of it. My apologies, but the Mithril is spoken for, as of the present. If any further veins are unearthed, I shall send messages to your court first. I treasure the friendship between our two peoples."
Näiyop nodded understandingly "If only half of what I hear about Mithril is true, I have no doubt that there is no shortage of partners in trade for you. Your offer is much appreciated, I hope that fortune favors your miners." With a more worried voice he continued "I have heard of the war in the south with the Salterri. The na'nuk are far removed from this in he North but it worries me. are there any news regarding what provoked their attack?"

Later still, the AQUA party found their way to the Wenyavuk pavillion. It was easy, as the mammoths were rumbling loud and low. Amber introduced herself and her group once again.

[b]"I wish to personally thank you for your wonderful creatures. My sister Evelyn tells me that they are indispensible for building our port, the Emerald City. We rode several here. They are truly remarkable.

Jonas, Amber's son, blurted out "They are totally awesome! The little carriages on top are like riding on a ship in a storm!" His sister chimed in, "And they're so fluffy and friendly!
Amber and her delegation approached as the Na'nuk athletes busily prepared for tomorrow's race. Diligently, their skilled hands braided the fur of the largest mammoth, to allow more air to reach it's skin, then tied them into decorating patterns with white and blue ribbons. On a patch of grass next the the pavillon, Bekya trained with an elderly Na'nuk in the shade of a colorful Raaneki tree. Näiyop excused himself from a discussion with Inaun and welcomed the Islanders "Regina Grant, it is good to meet you again. I trust that the winds are in your favor?" With a glance outside he continued "They are magnificent creatures, aren't they? It has been less than 20 years since we domesticated them yet I hardly know how we ever got by without their help in construction." He smiled as a thought came to him "I have to admit, I was surprised and more than a little worried when I learned that we had sent you a whole herd instead of just furs. I did not think they would last in the heat, but I suppose they graze close enough to our warm springs to have adapted. I am glad this oversight worked out in your favor" He smiled "And of course... the more of them we send to you, the less are left to eat all the fruit you kindly provide us with."

Rolls for the contests (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17259873&postcount=218)
OOC: Are the 1/2 scores rounded up or down? I saw no mention of this and rounded down, participation is everything :smallwink:

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-06, 01:27 PM

One pegasus touched down on Raaneki land, then another, then some more. This Sycian party was certainly larger than the meager one that had attended the Second Games.

The High Priestess Fabula stepped down from her mount, the gift she had been given at the Summit on the Summit by the Lord and Lady were proudly displayed on her arms. She looked beautiful, now much more a woman then she had been when she last set foot here. With her was a young girl, no older than four, and a large collection of Head Priests and athletes.

She smiled, enjoying the view, but her eyes looked urgent.

lt_murgen

2014-04-06, 02:42 PM

He smiled "And of course... the more of them we send to you, the less are left to eat all the fruit you kindly provide us with."

Amber smiled, turning on the charm, "They do so love that fruit, don't they? My sister Evelyn claims she has to keep them penned on the other side of the city, or the young males escape and stampede over to the docks. It is so hard to keep young men from the sweets they desire..." She let that thought trail off.

"We arrived here on a few of them. Our enineers built small platforms that can ride upon their backs. It was quite comfortable. But since we have been there, they have been restless. They seem to enjoy the cool sea water and beaches, if that is any help. "

She reached for a glass of wine, and raised it in toast. "In any event, here is to your athletes. May they bring great honor to your lands."

Silverbit

2014-04-06, 03:33 PM

Näiyop nodded understandingly "If only half of what I hear about Mithril is true, I have no doubt that there is no shortage of partners in trade for you. Your offer is much appreciated, I hope that fortune favors your miners." With a more worried voice he continued "I have heard of the war in the south with the Salterri. The na'nuk are far removed from this in he North but it worries me. are there any news regarding what provoked their attack?"

"I am glad for your understanding. As for their attack, no word as of yet. It just seems that they are a warlike people, not satisfied with the lands they have. A little expansion is all well and good, but invading the whole north? Suicide. I wonder if some outside power is directing their actions; their decisions do not see, entirely rational."

<<Later that day>>
The AQUA delegation approached the Radazzi later on in the day. They were carrying baskets of tropical fruit and handing out samples with great abandon to the milling crowd.

"Mormaer Razkai, Prince Vali and Princess Uristine. Greetings! Amber bowed gracefully. She took the opportunity to introduce herself and her party, far more formally than she had greeted the hosts. "Please accept these gifts of our tropical bounty as a gesture of friendship.

"I witnessed the prowess of your people in the battle with the Salterri. Your reputations are most well deserved.

Prince Vali answers the delegation, bemusedly taking an unfamiliar fruit.
"My thanks for your gifts. Razdis was not the only nation that fought well on that field; all there were brave and unflinching, even the Salterri."
"What has she just handed me? Am I meant to eat it? Smoke it? Keep it as a pet? Damn it Vali, do something."
He places the fruit in his belt pouch, storing it for later.

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-06, 04:21 PM

The Na'nuk were pleasantly surprised by the chilled wine and immediately felt more at home than any time during their trip to Raaneka. With the coolness of the wine masking the spirits it contained, many of the Na'nuk enjoyed it a trifle too much and were soon in high spirits and befriending the Raaneki. Näiyop drank in strict moderation, well remembering his last encounter with Raaneki spirits... there would be time for that later.

As Lady Lomadi and Lord Ujval arrived, Inaun smiled widely and welcomed them warmly. He chuckled "Old friend? You might be onto something there." He brushed aside a lock of his hair that was becoming increasingly more salt than pepper in color and grinned "Either these mammoths are becoming more uncomfortable year by year or I am getting too old for this." With a glance to the rest of the delegation he continued "I believe you remember Bekya? She insisted on competing in the Caragita and has been training rigurously. You may also remember Ania from our visit to Sanctuary all those years ago. She's our advisor of trade now and I am confident that I convinced her of the benefits of finding some way to ensure that we don't have to wait several years inbetween servings of Raaneki wine and food. I'm sure she'd like to talk to you about that" he grinned again, raising his cup "After we have properly arrived!"

OOC: Are the 1/2 scores rounded up or down? I saw no mention of this and rounded down, participation is everything :smallwink:

Lord Ujval embraced Inaun and appraised Bekya. "I wish you well, dear! My sister, Princess Anguri, will be competing as well. Don't let her spirit intimidate you! Her heart is soft, despite her fiery nature."

Lady Lomadi welcomed Bekya and Ania as well. "It's been so long! Welcome, welcome. Please!" she said, scooping a bottle of rust red wine from a table and handing it to Bekya. "A fine vintage of Patari Autumn. Among the Raaneki, we sometimes call it Battlewine. Drink it and your own spirit will be roused for two days."

To Ania, she gave a warm embrace, and a full goblet of Bandari Heartwine, the crown jewel of all Raaneka's vintages. It was blood red and crystal clear, mellow but forceful, with luxuriant aromas and the subtle taste of spice. Where other Raaneki wine might have been calming, or energetic, or thoughtful, Heartwine opened a more communal part of a person. It encouraged fellowship. "Alas," she said, after a few moments of conversation. "Would that we had any trade in Heartwine to spare! Still, our lands have known each other for so long, but have yet to aid one another in the wide world. My sister's son, Bapa, will become a man in a few years. He already dreams of family, but he wants to make a name for himself first. His mother told him stories of the tigers of your land, and he has longed to see them ever since."

Lady Lomadi reclined on her cushion. The Lady of Raaneka was dressed in a sheer silk gown, with undergarments of luxurious red brocade. Tattoos like delicate crimson tally marks covered her body, recounting past deeds and decorating the marks on her stomach from carrying her daughters. Her skin was the color of an overcast sky just before the sunshine. "I have heard rumors that you may be building some institute of learning? I am sure Bapa and his companions could be persuaded to help your construction if you would take them on a hunt for these tigers."

Based on our talk in the OOC thread, here's what I'm thinking. As fluff, Bapa Adite and a host of Raaneki adventurers will journey to Wenyavuk to help build your Arctic Institute while you teach them to hunt tigers. In return, we'd like Wenyavuk's help completing the canal Grmanhil is about to start building. Mechanically, you and I can both contribute an action to building your Institute each turn, which will speed up its completion. Once it's finished, I'd like you to use the actions you've saved to help us finish the Grand Canal. How does that sound?

Also, responded to your round up/round down question below.

Whoops! Let's say 1/2 scores for the Arts Contest, Caragita, Tournaments, and the Mounted Race are rounded up. The Raaneki are a generous people. :smallsmile:

Standings have been updated with all the latest rolls! I've also added a little clarification in the Event Descriptions and Mechanics spoilers in the OP. Basically, feel free to challenge players for the duel and ranged tournaments, and RP them out together if desired. The Champion of the tournament is whoever has the best win/lose/draw record, so challenging more people will give you a better shot. Have at ye!

"It would be bad form to deny the hostess a chance to embarass herself. Amber said challengingly, but her eyes sparkled. "Of course we'll duel. You might even stand a chance, as age is your ally now."

"But that is not for today! Today is a time for drinking, for revelry, and for renewing old friendships. With your permission, we will take our leave."

On her way out, she turned back with a coy smile, "I'm sure Talon's curiosity for the cultures of other's will find... satisfaction here."

On the Third Day...
Princes Anguri Adite, the Golden, took command of the field when she stepped upon it. She raised her arm, mithral buckler clutched in her fist, and the crowd went wild. The buckler was paired with an exquisite mithral cutlass that Anguri had hand-picked from the Razdisi hoard. Her mother would have carried a spear, but Anguri favored the straightforwardness of swordplay. She learned all the Raaneki combat arts, but on this field she used what she cared about.

If she had been a soldier she would have taken to the field with breastplate and greaves, but Anguri was the First Marshal of the Raaneki Berunda. She wore neither sandals nor boots. Her legs were still lean and strong, purple as a night sky with pinpricks of blue and white. A golden belt secured what could barely be called trousers, which were red silk and woven of brocade thick enough to stop an arrow. She wore a cuirass of the same silk brocade, and her long red hair was braided and bound behind her head with a sash. Aside from the buckler, her only other armor was a bracer worked of polished iron and chased with gold, which encased her sword arm from wrist to shoulder.

She looked across the field at her opponent Regina Amber of the Jeweled Cities. "Howzit, Cousin?" she called, testing the balance of her sword. It had been blunted before the match, but it wasn't easy. That was a good sign in her eyes. "Been a while, eh?"

They squared off, and Anguri became the spoke in the wheel of a battle that turned around her. Her nimble steps and acrobatic leaps positioned her at the center of inertia each time, and her sword sang as it rose and fell against her cousin. Another roar erupted from the crowd when Regina Amber faltered, and Anguri rushed in to throw her to the earth. "Ah!" She said, helping Amber to her feet. "I have missed you!"

Reviewing the rolls, you had 10/10/10 for this duel and I had 11/10/10, so we fight to a standstill but I grabbed that early win. I'm still excited! :smallbiggrin:

One pegasus touched down on Raaneki land, then another, then some more. This Sycian party was certainly larger than the meager one that had attended the Second Games.

The High Priestess Fabula stepped down from her mount, the gift she had been given at the Summit on the Summit by the Lord and Lady were proudly displayed on her arms. She looked beautiful, now much more a woman then she had been when she last set foot here. With her was a young girl, no older than four, and a large collection of Head Priests and athletes.

She smiled, enjoying the view, but her eyes looked urgent.

Princess Cassandra Satato, once a lady of faraway Bordeux and now an envoy and matron of her house, approached the Sycian attendees with her husband, Prince Tikta. "Welcome, athletes and all those faithful to Yphine! May your valor and skill be rewarded in these coming days!" Looking at the young girl, she curtsied and offered her hand. The little girl might have been the only person short enough to notice Cassandra's only tattoo, and small, black circle, underneath her chin. "I am pleased to meet you, young lady. I am Lomadi. Who are you?"

Her husband offered his hand to the High Priestess. "Welcome, High Priestess Fabula! You are like pure ice in the full light of day, as ever. Come, tell me any need, and we shall satisfy it on our way to a fine Rabodi Midnight vintage."

TheWombatOfDoom

2014-04-07, 09:23 AM

The Serendel's arrived in mass, treading the all too familiar streets of Bander. A warm smile appeared on Lyra's worn face. She greeted the royal couple of Raaneka happily, though it seemed part of her was distracted by matters elsewhere - the curse of ruling a kingdom.

lt_murgen

2014-04-07, 10:18 AM

"What has she just handed me? Am I meant to eat it? Smoke it? Keep it as a pet? Damn it Vali, do something."[/I]
He places the fruit in his belt pouch, storing it for later.

Amber completely missed the man’s discomfort, focusing instead upon his choice. ”Oranges are excellent. Once you peel them, they are sweet and tangy inside. Our sailor swear the improve their vision at night.”

The earth shaman who accompanied her was better at reading the situation. She looked around and found a couple of tankards of beer. Quickly peeling one and popping a slice into each, she handed one to Amber, then graciously bowed while handing Prince Vali the other. ”Please, honored leiges, try one in beer. It adds a remarkable level of complexity.

Day 2: The delegation picked a close spot to watch the mock naval battles. Of course, between the battles, Amber told the story of her Naval Battle against the Salterri.

The Salterri Navy were real warships, all right. Not like our armed merchantmen. They had heavier weapons and were a lot bigger. Tonnage is great, especially if you’ve got the oars to propel it. But maneuverability is more important. That’s why we went away from triremes decades ago. Batten sails are the way to go.

Yea, yea, yea. I’ve heard it all before. Battens are poor when going into the wind, but flat out better with the wind behind us. See, the Salterri knew that. But we did too, and we made sure Lord Ethmori knew the whole story. He couldn’t have picked a better spot to dig in. It was close enough that the Salterri could use their ships as mobile siege platforms against our western flank, and have the wind behind them so they could use their sails, not oars. It looked like we’d made a poor choice.

But that was our genius, see? Those big Salti ships are designed for ramming, boarding, and broadsides missile fire. So we gave them what they wanted. They sent the first sortie in, oars stowed, full sail, and every swinging **** that could use a bow up on the deck. Made one hell of a mess with the encampment on the shore. Looked like our whole flank fled in panic, and the Salties sent a huge wave of ground troops right up the beach.

But the wind was so strong, it carried them past the battle field too quickly. To make the turn, they had to drop their weapons and get back on the oars and stow the sails. That is when we showed them our new surprise.

Let me step back for a minute. See ‘bout 15 years ago, this little toy boat shows up. A gift from the Blazing Avatar to my dad. Well, the darn thing floats on air and can sail around! Amazing! Well, dad spends a decade studying the darn thing and pick up all kinda tidbits about how wind and sails work together. Well, dad figured out a way to rig a flying sail out the front of the ships. With it pointed one way and the batten the other, the air moved the ship right quick and they yaw was minimal. We call them Tanga rigs, after our archipelago.

Our ships were smaller and faster to begin with, and the Salties were now fighting the wind and tired from their attack efforts. We were able to sweep in and hammer them good- tore up the rigging on a bunch of their lead vessels, then scooted off with the wind before they could get troops back up from the oars. They got the message. They could support the land troops, but we’d pound them on the turn every time.

About the same time we hit their fleet, the ground folks sent that sortie of calvary down the beach, hitting the flank of the Salties that were charging headlong into the ‘gap’ and putting them between the calvary and the sea. So the Salti ships would have to shoot over their own troops to get at the fast moving calvary.

So they hauled to, and retreated offshore. We didn’t get into a kerfuffle with them, but we took them out of the fight anyway.
Amber seemed rather pleased with herself, but she credited Loki Ehtmori. “The man was a genius. He knew our desire was non-violence, and he built a plan where we could play a key role without a lot of bloodshed. I’d give him a thank-you roll in the hay anytime.”

Day 3: Personal combat

She looked across the field at her opponent Regina Amber of the Jeweled Cities. "Howzit, Cousin?" she called, testing the balance of her sword. It had been blunted before the match, but it wasn't easy. That was a good sign in her eyes. "Been a while, eh?"

Amber admired the Princess’ choice in arms and combat wear. She was a figure of fierce beauty. By contrast, Amber was armed in her well-worn, but battle tested, killer-whale leather. It glistened jet black in the sunlight, retaining its oily appearance even in the dry heat of Ranneka. She pulled a pair of blunted Kukri out of her belt.
”Cousin, it is an honor to face you. Let’s have some fun, shall we?” The two began a leaping, twisting, sliding dance, the fighting style of the Dancing Flame Their choice of clothing worked well, protecting them from glancing blows and ground rash but keeping them free and mobile. Anguri was perfectly balanced, forcing the older woman into the more strenuous outside of their circle.

Another roar erupted from the crowd when Regina Amber faltered, and Anguri rushed in to throw her to the earth. "Ah!" She said, helping Amber to her feet. "I have missed you!"

“Me too. It has been too long. Love the mithril”. She told her long time friend. ”It is has much less mass than it appears. Kind of like you.” She said challengingly, but with a twinkle in her eye.

On the second round, Amber tucked her Kukri away, and donned a blunted pair of Welcoming Kracken. The Hooks had been blunted, but they could still entangleThis time, Amber used the Rolling Sea techniques, using Anguri’s own momentum against her. The sparring quickly turned into a wrestling match. Amber succeeded in disarming the younger woman, but the silk silk brocade bound one of her own hands in its threads. The two sprawled on the ground in a tangle, laughing, as the judge called a draw.

On the third round, Amber returned to her kukri.

You can write up the third round. And yes, Amber did accuse Anguri of being tubby, in fun of course.

SamBurke

2014-04-07, 11:32 AM

On the second day, a small delegation joins the sea of tents dotting the Raneekan countryside. The Guilderene emissaries make surprisingly little noise, preferring to make their way through the various nations with peace and treaties instead.

-The creation of a Grand Canal in the south, to allow access from Sea to Sea.
-The signing of the UN Peace Treaty
-Trade of Plate Armor for Dire Boar with the Ignato Empire
-Sending of scientists to the Jeweled Cities.
-Send supplies of wood to help Celero rebuild the Grand Coalition port.

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-07, 05:01 PM

((STANDINGS UPDATED. Looks like it's Lyradis v. Raaneka for the naval battle, and Lyradis v. Wenyavuk in the ranged tournie.))

The Serendel's arrived in mass, treading the all too familiar streets of Bander. A warm smile appeared on Lyra's worn face. She greeted the royal couple of Raaneka happily, though it seemed part of her was distracted by matters elsewhere - the curse of ruling a kingdom.

Lady Lomadi embraced Lyra as Lord Ujval greeted Toranath. "Welcome, athletes of Raaneka!" The royal couple presented the Lyradissians with a cart full of wine. "May you earn glory and prowess in the coming days!"

Lady and Lord turned to Lyra. "We are neighbors, and yet we see each other so little. Not since that new year's revelry a few years back. I imagine there is much to discuss, for the good of the Dawn League and for ourselves, no?"

Day 3: Personal combat
Amber admired the Princess’ choice in arms and combat wear. She was a figure of fierce beauty. By contrast, Amber was armed in her well-worn, but battle tested, killer-whale leather. It glistened jet black in the sunlight, retaining its oily appearance even in the dry heat of Ranneka. She pulled a pair of blunted Kukri out of her belt.
”Cousin, it is an honor to face you. Let’s have some fun, shall we?” The two began a leaping, twisting, sliding dance, the fighting style of the Dancing Flame Their choice of clothing worked well, protecting them from glancing blows and ground rash but keeping them free and mobile. Anguri was perfectly balanced, forcing the older woman into the more strenuous outside of their circle.

“Me too. It has been too long. Love the mithril”. She told her long time friend. ”It is has much less mass than it appears. Kind of like you.” She said challengingly, but with a twinkle in her eye.

On the second round, Amber tucked her Kukri away, and donned a blunted pair of Welcoming Kracken. The Hooks had been blunted, but they could still entangleThis time, Amber used the Rolling Sea techniques, using Anguri’s own momentum against her. The sparring quickly turned into a wrestling match. Amber succeeded in disarming the younger woman, but the silk silk brocade bound one of her own hands in its threads. The two sprawled on the ground in a tangle, laughing, as the judge called a draw.

On the third round, Amber returned to her kukri.

You can write up the third round. And yes, Amber did accuse Anguri of being tubby, in fun of course.

Princess Anguri took the comment about her armor (and her figure) with a laugh. "Ay, you must have talked to that Bellamy Junior. He learned all about my mass when I was a ward."

She was all smiles and friendliness between matches, but Anguri dropped all pretense as soon as the official gave the word. She became a panther of a woman, darting into and away from Amber to create confusion and opportunity. Amber's Kukri were nimble and deceptively strong, but Anguri's buckler proved a ready defense. Likewise, Amber was so nimble in her killer whale armor that Anguri's cutlass couldn't find purchase. They battled for minutes, until their energy was sapped and they were reduced to more wrestling on the ground. Any true Raaneki official would have allowed the situation to develop in its own way, but the more proper Bordeusi man officiating the duel called a draw as soon as it became unclear whether they were still fighting, locked together on the ground as they were.

"It's no shame, losing to the Golden Daughter of Raaneka," Princess Anguri joked as she clambered to her feet with her old friend. "But those kukri! Wicked. It's been too long since the Islanders came to Raaneka. How do we fix that, Cousin?"

On the second day, a small delegation joins the sea of tents dotting the Raneekan countryside. The Guilderene emissaries make surprisingly little noise, preferring to make their way through the various nations with peace and treaties instead.

-The creation of a Grand Canal in the south, to allow access from Sea to Sea.
-The signing of the UN Peace Treaty
-Trade of Plate Armor for Dire Boar with the Ignato Empire
-Sending of scientists to the Jeweled Cities.
-Send supplies of wood to help Celero rebuild the Grand Coalition port.

No Guilderene was turned away from any Raaneki establishment, and many of the painted folk showed off baubles and trinkets made from finest Guilderene bronze.

Prince Tikta greeted the Doge warmly. "Come, enjoy a bottle of wine with me! You must tell me all of your endeavors!"

Tychris1

2014-04-07, 06:09 PM

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-07, 08:44 PM

In the lands of Raaneka, a Sympol is certainly an odd sight, prone to stand out. When said Sympol has a massive, cold, prosthetic iron arm he tends to stick out even more. Gripping the reigns of his mount, Ironfang lead his entourage ever forward into this strange land. Even with eyesight tinted green, everything was far too garish for him. Yet his advisors had practically thrown him into a locked box and dropped him in Raaneka in what they called a "Public Relations Boost". Grumbling in annoyance, Ironfang merely wished for this day to end as he finally entered the streets of merriment.

Ironfang was flanked on both sides by two sets of 3 Stormvermin, clad head to toe in iron Full Plate armor. Each of them carried a black sword on their waist, slung a red shield on their back, and hooked a silver halberd to the side of their mounts. Speaking of which, the entire entourage rode upon monstrous rodents, beasts that were a foot or two shorter then horses, and yet were far wider and more muscular. With beady, red eyes they scanned the people around them and rapidly sniffed at the air, hissing and snarling at a land so far away from Sympol or the Forest of Bones. Domesticating these aggressive, wild animals was perhaps the most difficult and deadly civilian task in Sympolemou, and even then they were not fit for Military usage (As their base instincts still needed to be controlled in the heat of battle). Tapestry and banners draped the sides of the Oversized Vermins instead of real barding, with a heavy iron bit and bridle emplaced on them. Yet even the iron, tough as it may be, showed signs of wear and tear from gnawing. Were it not for the fierce and cold discipline of the Stormvermin riding them, the Monstrous Rodents would have most likely gone berserk.

All save one, an Albino who merely trudged along with a passive expression, and carried Ironfang on his back. This mount had no banners or sigils, as none were truly needed, it's appearance was unique enough as is. Draped over its body was iron barding, shaped and moulded to cover as much of the beast as possible, and imitate Ironfang's appearance in the process. The black iron draped over its body even covered most of its head, leaving two eye slits open for the beast to look out of. The end of its tail was even armored, the blacksmiths in Sympolemou forging a tail blade for it to whip about with. Ironfang had no strong feelings towards the mount itself, though it seemed the purpose of it was another "Public Relations" move to inspire nationalism, and show that he had some emotions by bonding with an animal. Aside from giving it the name "Wraith" he hardly paid any attention to it.

In a synchronized and silent fashion, the Stormvermin changed direction and formed a protective diamond around Ironfang, and began to part the way through the streets for him. It's not like much effort was needed anyway, Ironfang was a black hole of apathy and dreariness, a blob of grey that seemingly sucked the enjoyment out of everything around him, and as of such revelers did not spend much time around him.

Music lost its lilt when the Sympol passed by. Before long, crowds began to clear in advance of the brutal party. Even a stone's throw from the Sympol, revelers became burdened with gravity, unable to muster pleasant thoughts even under the power of Raaneki wine. Some shrugged, others glared, and not a few were frightened off, but anywhere the Sympol traveled, they seemed repellent to the goings on.

Then, from the skies, a golden call was heard. There was a flash, and a riot of color soared overhead, trailing fire as it went. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Owq_aBJ9G6Q) The Stormvermin and Ironfang alike would have seen the great walls of fire the berundas carved on the battlefield, would have heard the ululations of the warrior princess riding this one. They would remember the carnage she wreaked on the battlefield, the Golden Daughter of Raaneka, she was called.

Berunda and rider landed not twenty feet from the Sympol party. She leapt from the back of her beast, tumbling in a swirl of red silk to land with a flash of lightning in her bright green eyes. The berunda made another call, terrible in its beauty, and spread the long feathers of its tail out in a scintillant fan over ten feet wide. The sunlight glinted off of feathers of gold and every color of the rainbow, and fire snapped and danced wherever feathers touched. Together they seemed to radiate with heat, and forbade the melancholy of the Sympol to touch them.

"Duke Ironfang," she said with a voice as strong as steel. She had left maidenhood behind years ago, but she was no less a woman and no less a warrior. She held an unopened bottle of black glass. "I am Princess Anguri Adite. Welcome to the Games. I have longed to test myself against your warriors."

I have been looking forward to this. Anguri's a big fan. :smalltongue:

aspi

2014-04-08, 05:41 AM

"I am glad for your understanding. As for their attack, no word as of yet. It just seems that they are a warlike people, not satisfied with the lands they have. A little expansion is all well and good, but invading the whole north? Suicide. I wonder if some outside power is directing their actions; their decisions do not see, entirely rational."
Näiyop listened attentively to the Mormaer and nodded as he finished, looking toward the western horizon "Yes, recent events have me worried as well. There seems to be something to the larger picture that is still missing." He turned to face the dwarf directly "The Na'nuk are not warlike people, so there is little we can do to aid in times of war. But please, if you encounter something that you believe might warrant our involvement, do not hesitate to inform us. We're not separated from the world anymore after all."

Amber smiled, turning on the charm, "They do so love that fruit, don't they? My sister Evelyn claims she has to keep them penned on the other side of the city, or the young males escape and stampede over to the docks. It is so hard to keep young men from the sweets they desire..." She let that thought trail off.

"We arrived here on a few of them. Our enineers built small platforms that can ride upon their backs. It was quite comfortable. But since we have been there, they have been restless. They seem to enjoy the cool sea water and beaches, if that is any help. "

She reached for a glass of wine, and raised it in toast. "In any event, here is to your athletes. May they bring great honor to your lands."
The chieftain grinned "The love of fruit seems to be a trait of many creatures indeed." He raised his own glass "And to yours. I have to admit I am looking forward to the naval battles. Ranged tournaments or duels are something our hunters can wrap their heads around as they're not that different from, well, hunting. But ships batteling each other on the open ocean? That is something different entirely." He considered a thought for a moment then added "Perhaps you would consider explaining the nuances and tactics of the event to me while we watched tomorrow? It would certainly make the event even more worthwile."

OOC: Just making sure I'm in the audience for Amber's recount of the Salterri battle :smallwink:

In the lands of Raaneka, a Sympol is certainly an odd sight, prone to stand out. When said Sympol has a massive, cold, prosthetic iron arm he tends to stick out even more. Gripping the reigns of his mount, Ironfang lead his entourage ever forward into this strange land. Even with eyesight tinted green, everything was far too garish for him. Yet his advisors had practically thrown him into a locked box and dropped him in Raaneka in what they called a "Public Relations Boost". Grumbling in annoyance, Ironfang merely wished for this day to end as he finally entered the streets of merriment.

Ironfang was flanked on both sides by two sets of 3 Stormvermin, clad head to toe in iron Full Plate armor. Each of them carried a black sword on their waist, slung a red shield on their back, and hooked a silver halberd to the side of their mounts. Speaking of which, the entire entourage rode upon monstrous rodents, beasts that were a foot or two shorter then horses, and yet were far wider and more muscular. With beady, red eyes they scanned the people around them and rapidly sniffed at the air, hissing and snarling at a land so far away from Sympol or the Forest of Bones. Domesticating these aggressive, wild animals was perhaps the most difficult and deadly civilian task in Sympolemou, and even then they were not fit for Military usage (As their base instincts still needed to be controlled in the heat of battle). Tapestry and banners draped the sides of the Oversized Vermins instead of real barding, with a heavy iron bit and bridle emplaced on them. Yet even the iron, tough as it may be, showed signs of wear and tear from gnawing. Were it not for the fierce and cold discipline of the Stormvermin riding them, the Monstrous Rodents would have most likely gone berserk.

All save one, an Albino who merely trudged along with a passive expression, and carried Ironfang on his back. This mount had no banners or sigils, as none were truly needed, it's appearance was unique enough as is. Draped over its body was iron barding, shaped and moulded to cover as much of the beast as possible, and imitate Ironfang's appearance in the process. The black iron draped over its body even covered most of its head, leaving two eye slits open for the beast to look out of. The end of its tail was even armored, the blacksmiths in Sympolemou forging a tail blade for it to whip about with. Ironfang had no strong feelings towards the mount itself, though it seemed the purpose of it was another "Public Relations" move to inspire nationalism, and show that he had some emotions by bonding with an animal. Aside from giving it the name "Wraith" he hardly paid any attention to it.

In a synchronized and silent fashion, the Stormvermin changed direction and formed a protective diamond around Ironfang, and began to part the way through the streets for him. It's not like much effort was needed anyway, Ironfang was a black hole of apathy and dreariness, a blob of grey that seemingly sucked the enjoyment out of everything around him, and as of such revelers did not spend much time around him.
Bekya had been wandering through the street of Bandar, talking to locals, merchants and peddlers of trinkets and purchasing tokens to present to her friends at home after her return to Wenyavuk. She marvelled at the sunlit beauty of the city, when she noticed the eerie calm that had replaced the music and commotion of the festvivities and was only interrupted by the sound of heavy steps and the rhythmic scratching of enormous claws on cobblestones.

Following this new and foreign sound, she arrived at the main street through which the Sympol procession passed. With her fair complexion and unpainted skin, she stood out among the suntanned Raaneki, yet this difference paled in comparison to the strangeness of the new arrivals. Unlike the Raaneki around her she did not retreat more than she had to as the heavily armed group drew closer, even when one of the gigantic rodent mounts hissed at her in barely suppressed ire. From the look in her eyes it was clear that she was as afraid as any of the others. She just didn't let the fear take control of her, taking in every detail about Wenyavuk's reclusive neighbours to the south. With curiosity she watched the Duke, who did not belong in this exotic place, far from home not unlike herself. But in contrast to the young Na'nuk, he seemed isolated from his surroundings, even his own entourage, not wanting to belong anywhere. Somewhere deep down she felt a spark of compassion for the Duke's lacking sense of wonder at the marvels around him.

Lord Ujval embraced Inaun and appraised Bekya. "I wish you well, dear! My sister, Princess Anguri, will be competing as well. Don't let her spirit intimidate you! Her heart is soft, despite her fiery nature."

Lady Lomadi welcomed Bekya and Ania as well. "It's been so long! Welcome, welcome. Please!" she said, scooping a bottle of rust red wine from a table and handing it to Bekya. "A fine vintage of Patari Autumn. Among the Raaneki, we sometimes call it Battlewine. Drink it and your own spirit will be roused for two days."

To Ania, she gave a warm embrace, and a full goblet of Bandari Heartwine, the crown jewel of all Raaneka's vintages. It was blood red and crystal clear, mellow but forceful, with luxuriant aromas and the subtle taste of spice. Where other Raaneki wine might have been calming, or energetic, or thoughtful, Heartwine opened a more communal part of a person. It encouraged fellowship. "Alas," she said, after a few moments of conversation. "Would that we had any trade in Heartwine to spare! Still, our lands have known each other for so long, but have yet to aid one another in the wide world. My sister's son, Bapa, will become a man in a few years. He already dreams of family, but he wants to make a name for himself first. His mother told him stories of the tigers of your land, and he has longed to see them ever since."

Lady Lomadi reclined on her cushion. The Lady of Raaneka was dressed in a sheer silk gown, with undergarments of luxurious red brocade. Tattoos like delicate crimson tally marks covered her body, recounting past deeds and decorating the marks on her stomach from carrying her daughters. Her skin was the color of an overcast sky just before the sunshine. "I have heard rumors that you may be building some institute of learning? I am sure Bapa and his companions could be persuaded to help your construction if you would take them on a hunt for these tigers."

Based on our talk in the OOC thread, here's what I'm thinking. As fluff, Bapa Adite and a host of Raaneki adventurers will journey to Wenyavuk to help build your Arctic Institute while you teach them to hunt tigers. In return, we'd like Wenyavuk's help completing the canal Grmanhil is about to start building. Mechanically, you and I can both contribute an action to building your Institute each turn, which will speed up its completion. Once it's finished, I'd like you to use the actions you've saved to help us finish the Grand Canal. How does that sound?

Also, responded to your round up/round down question below.
Bekya curtsied politely as the Lady presented her with the bottle of Battlewine "Thank you kindly Mylady, I shall savour it in preparation of the games. But I do not feel that I have earned such respite yet. Please excuse me, I have training I should attend to after the long trip." After her niece had left, Ania smiled warmly "You must forgive her, she is masking her anxiety at competing in the games with zeal. She's never had the opportunity to show off her talents as a hunter and I believe she wants to prove to Näiyop that even an explorers daughter can become a warrior. But as far as diplomacy goes..." she laughed "well, she's her fathers daughter for sure."

Ania seemed more lively, now that they were in the shade and she'd had time to recover from the strenuous journey. Eagerly, she listened to Lady Lomadi "Oh yes, tigers." With an uninterpretable smile she continued "I hear you were witness to what Inaun and Näyiop call the tiger incident. Apparently they didn't talk all the way back to Wenyavuk. But they worked it out eventually like they always seem to, after all there's business with the Sycians they have to attend to. I'm curious how that will go..." she drifted off, then took another sip of the delightful, chilled wine and agreed with Lomadi's proposal "Näiyop has ordered the construction of the Arctic Institute. I don't think he's decided on a curriculum or focus for it just yet, but having an academic institution will be a boon. We would definitely welcome your input there and tigers have been a major inconvenience ever since we began domesticating mammoths so your help would be appreciated. It will be nice to have visitors from the South again."

The fluff sounds very nice, we should definitely do that. Mechanically it might be a bit more difficult, since I am not sure if I will have enough actions to work on the institute myself during the next 2-3 round, let alone the canal. So if you don't mind waiting 3-4 turns for me to start helping with the canal we can do this... Depending on how many others help with it, it might be done before I can really contribute though. Alternatively I don't mind helping with some other project later if the canal is already done or just sticking to the fluff entirely.

lt_murgen

2014-04-08, 08:53 AM

It's no shame, losing to the Golden Daughter of Raaneka,[/COLOR]" Princess Anguri joked as she clambered to her feet with her old friend. "But those kukri! Wicked. It's been too long since the Islanders came to Raaneka. How do we fix that, Cousin?"

As the pair retired from the field, they chatted and carried on like the old friends they were. In the end, neither was sure who first suggested it, but both seemed amendable to a youth exchange. The AQUA would send a small group of children of Council members to live with the Raaneki for 3 years. They would be between 8 and 13. Ranneka would reciprocate with a group of royals and their courtiers of the same age. If it was an ongoing thing, the benefits to both nations would be tremendous.

"I am certain the Jeweled Cities and the Quill would welcome such an opportunity, but I will have to check with them. Formalities and all that nonsense." Amber informed Anguri. "Just like I'm sure you'll need to check with the Lady Lomadi.. and Lord Ujval of course."

He considered a thought for a moment then added "Perhaps you would consider explaining the nuances and tactics of the event to me while we watched tomorrow? It would certainly make the event even more worthwile."

"Of course! Will will make room for your party in our viewing area. It might be a tight fit, but we like getting cozy." Amber smiled with just a hint of promise in it.

<<OOC The islanders are like the Raaneki in that they tend not to wear much clothing and consider customs like marriage 'quaint'>>>

[QUOTE=Tychris1;17267398]the entire entourage rode upon monstrous rodents, beasts that were a foot or two shorter then horses, and yet were far wider and more muscular. [\QUOTE]

"Look momma!" Tempest Grant called out to her mother Amber. "ROUSes, just like in the stories" The pre-teen was leaning dangerously over the railing of the balcony upon which they rested.

"Hush sweetie. I see them."

"Can we go down and get closer?'

"No"

"But they are so pretty!"

Amber had to admit, there was a certain beauty in their compact lethality. "They have journey far, and just arrived. Remember how disagreeable the mammoths were after their long walk?"

The girl sighed, rubbing her cheek. Her new 'pet' mammoth Lady Guinevere Chillingsworth of Farhampton the Third had given her a stout clubbing when she had tried to get it to play after a long days march. "Yes momma"

TheWombatOfDoom

2014-04-08, 10:19 AM

((STANDINGS UPDATED. Looks like it's Lyradis v. Raaneka for the naval battle, and Lyradis v. Wenyavuk in the ranged tournie.))

Lady Lomadi embraced Lyra as Lord Ujval greeted Toranath. "Welcome, athletes of Raaneka!" The royal couple presented the Lyradissians with a cart full of wine. "May you earn glory and prowess in the coming days!"

Lady and Lord turned to Lyra. "We are neighbors, and yet we see each other so little. Not since that new year's revelry a few years back. I imagine there is much to discuss, for the good of the Dawn League and for ourselves, no?"

"It is true. We have had our projects, I suppose," she says with a coy glance at the Berundas. "Such beautiful birds. An incarnation of the old proverb - 'Nature creates beauty to decieve safety.' "

Toranath eyes the wine interestedly, and opens one, and takes a cup full. His eyes widen, and then close with pleasure, before he procures a second cup for his wife. Lyra takes it, and holds it idly, before she looks back at her southern friends. Worry is plain on her face. "Another meeting of the Dawn must be had. There is much happening around us, and I fear if we do not act, we may all be in peril. Not all the news is bad, even still." Lyra had always been a center of calm. But now, that calmness had cracks running through it.

((OOC: How do you want to do the Naval Battle? And Wenyavuk - the ranged tourney?))

Tychris1

2014-04-08, 10:56 AM

Ironfang looked to the skies, his green vision still able to decipher the rainbow colors that exploded over him. His expression remained completely neutral as he watched the firey birds make their descent, though his lip raised slightly at the sight of the Warrior Princess. A hollow memory of what glorious, physical combat felt like. But in an instant it was squashed, replaced by a light scowl, and slowly resetting itself to a flat unamused expression. For what it was worth, Wraith managed to retain this expression of neutrality, though he did falter and tilted his head to the side as he saw the birds up close.

The Stormvermin on the other hand, were far less apathetic to this display, and were instead highly agitated. They slumped their shoulders, lowering their heads as they watched the pyrotechnic display with unease and worry. It was not a fear of combat, Stormvermins were born for war, and in a straight battle the Berunda Riders while skilled would fall to black blades. No, this nervousness was born of a whole different reason, that of flight.

Tall heights were of no concern to the average Sympol, who lived, breathed, fought, and died on Mountains so tall that the surrounding forests looked like grass. But whilst trekking these dangerous heights, Sympol had a single unifying fact of life, that of a strong and sturdy earth to hold onto. The notion of flying through the air, plummeting at speeds unimaginable, and only trusting on such a thing as the flesh of some trained monster was ridiculous. In particular, it was stupid and dangerous. It was all they could do to maintain control over their mounts in the face of such absurdities.

Duke Ironfang stared at the Princess as she welcomed them, slowly sending his mount forward so that he may greet her properly. Taking the reigns off of his iron arm, the Duke began to flex his prosthetic arm. The screeching of metal on metal was practically ear bleeding, like two iron anvils slammed together and dragged roughly across. His claw opened up fully, a massive appendage that dwarfed his real fleshy paw, and with a heavy sigh he turned his body and held it out to shake Angari's hand.

"Well Princess, I have heard quite a few things about you and the land of Raaneka,"

He said in a dull, repetitive tone, as if he had rehearsed this a hundred times on the way there, and already tired of saying it now.

"I certainly hope they are true."

zabbarot

2014-04-08, 02:57 PM

Day Three

It was finally time for the demonstration events, which the Genivanan delegation was very much looking forward. Nearly 5 years ago on Tendaji had given his Raaneki hosts a brief introduction to kudaka when his mawan and genimawan men had attempted to play the game on a ship. It went well until the ball was lost over the side of the ship. But now they had a whole stadium to play in. A huge flat stadium. This was not really an ideal field for kudaka, since one of the few rules was that the ground was strictly out of bounds. As soon as the field was clear and they were given the go ahead a group of nearly a hundred Genivanans scrambled onto the field and quickly erected a forest of branching platforms over much of the field. After that they dispersed and two teams of mawa came onto the field. Each wore simple shorts and had strips of bright cloth on their elbows, wrists, and ankles to show their team; one blue and the other yellow. They divided and scaled the platforms, formed opposing lines and waited. The crowd sat silent, unsure of what exactly they were watching. A mawa man wearing an elaborate outfit of loose silk and black and white feathers climbed to the highest point in the middle of the constructed forest and held a black ball roughly the size of a coconut into the air.

"This is kudaka! Kudaka is a fast paced aggressive game, and the rules are simple. At each end of this field there is a wide net. The objective is to get this ball into that net. Any player may carry the ball. They are also allowed to pass, throw, and kick the ball. The ball may be held with hands or feet." The mawa bounced the ball of the platform and caught it with his left foot to demonstrate. "Players can tackle and grapple with each other for possession of the ball. Usually this game is played in the forests, and in such cases the edges of the playing field would need to be defined, but here the edges are obviously just past the platforms. The ground is also off limits. If the ball or a player in possession of it touches the ground possession is awarded to the other team... I think that's most of it... Oh! When a team gets the ball into a net they earn a point! Most points at the end of the game wins! After a point is made the field is reset like it is now to begin again." The man looked down at the players below him.

"Players on your ready! KUDAKA!

He dropped the ball straight down and the lines broke instantly. On the yellow team two players launched a third towards the ball which he grabbed, shortly before being tackled mid air and dropping the ball to the green team. The green team moved quickly, swinging from branch to branch passing the ball between them with their feet to stay just ahead of the yellow team. But just yards from the net the ball was intercepted and kicked halfway back down the field to the now recovered player who had earlier been tackled. The green team scrambled to catch back up to him and nearly did but with a beautiful feint he bounced the ball of a tree and sideswung the last defender to catch it and dive bodily into the net.

The Genivanans watching were in an uproar. It was madness. The rest of the stadium was still trying to figure out what was going on, with the exception of a small number of Raaneki with previous experience.

The ball was returned to center and the game begun again. It wasn't long before the crowd was actually caught up in the fervor, and by the time the green team won in an upset 7-6 victory the crowd was genuinely divided in their support for either team.

For the record it is kind of difficult to describe sports without trailing into run on sentences.
Also I should have numbered them or something but that seemed anachronistic. :smalltongue:
Also also, there are not as many good words for brachiation as there are for walking/running.
One last thing, I assume somewhere off to the side there's a guy with an hourglass and a whistle to end the game.

lt_murgen

2014-04-08, 05:11 PM

"((OOC: How do you want to do the Naval Battle? And Wenyavuk - the ranged tourney?))
My personal opinion, you could look at how Zap and I did the individual duel- trading off narratives and filling in the blanks in each other's story. Or you can just tell your side of it, and let Zap fill in his side.

OOC:
AQUA has the following for trade:
kelp-olive oil (good for cooking, sealing ocean vessel hulls, and burns hotter than wood)
tropical fruit
tar- good for general waterproofing
meat- might be alligator, the Quill aren't sayin....

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-08, 05:23 PM

Bekya curtsied politely as the Lady presented her with the bottle of Battlewine "Thank you kindly Mylady, I shall savour it in preparation of the games. But I do not feel that I have earned such respite yet. Please excuse me, I have training I should attend to after the long trip." After her niece had left, Ania smiled warmly "You must forgive her, she is masking her anxiety at competing in the games with zeal. She's never had the opportunity to show off her talents as a hunter and I believe she wants to prove to Näiyop that even an explorers daughter can become a warrior. But as far as diplomacy goes..." she laughed "well, she's her fathers daughter for sure."

Ania seemed more lively, now that they were in the shade and she'd had time to recover from the strenuous journey. Eagerly, she listened to Lady Lomadi "Oh yes, tigers." With an uninterpretable smile she continued "I hear you were witness to what Inaun and Näyiop call the tiger incident. Apparently they didn't talk all the way back to Wenyavuk. But they worked it out eventually like they always seem to, after all there's business with the Sycians they have to attend to. I'm curious how that will go..." she drifted off, then took another sip of the delightful, chilled wine and agreed with Lomadi's proposal "Näiyop has ordered the construction of the Arctic Institute. I don't think he's decided on a curriculum or focus for it just yet, but having an academic institution will be a boon. We would definitely welcome your input there and tigers have been a major inconvenience ever since we began domesticating mammoths so your help would be appreciated. It will be nice to have visitors from the South again."

The fluff sounds very nice, we should definitely do that. Mechanically it might be a bit more difficult, since I am not sure if I will have enough actions to work on the institute myself during the next 2-3 round, let alone the canal. So if you don't mind waiting 3-4 turns for me to start helping with the canal we can do this... Depending on how many others help with it, it might be done before I can really contribute though. Alternatively I don't mind helping with some other project later if the canal is already done or just sticking to the fluff entirely.

Lady Lomadi laughed a knowing laugh at Ania's description of the young woman. "Her graces are still far better than my sister, Anguri's. Bekya is in good company! We Raaneki have not been a part of the wide world for long, and I am afraid we lack some of the graces of Telluris ourselves." Bystanders would have looked at Lomadi's sheer dress, the wild revelry beneath the dais, or the heaping handful of stark naked Raaneki skirting the corner of the throng, and would have a new appreciation for understatement.

Later, discussing Bapa and the tigers, Lady Lomadi raised her eyebrows with interest. "So much we do not know of the ways of our neighbors!" In Raaneka, even someone as far away as Wenyavuk was considered a neighbor. "I had understood it was a daring tale Näyiop told, but I had no idea it caused such a rift between them! Tigers much be fearsome and sacred indeed."

Ania regaled Lady Lomadi with more details of the Arctic Institute. "You know," Lomadi said, pouring each of them a fresh goblet of Heartwine. "It sounds as though your plans for the Institute may be delayed longer than Bapa's stay. It sounds also as though Bekya could use training from a warrior culture. What if, when Bapa travels north, Bekya came to live here, and study warfare and combat from my sister? She would be an honored guest of our house, of course, and we would never encroach upon her comfort or propriety." Participation in the lifestyle of Raaneka was never compulsory, but exposure would be unavoidable in such circumstances. No few had protested the "garish licentiousness" of Raaneka, but just as many had discovered joys they never knew existed.

My end of the offer just became apparent as I was posting! Feel free to say yay or nay, either works for me!

As the pair retired from the field, they chatted and carried on like the old friends they were. In the end, neither was sure who first suggested it, but both seemed amendable to a youth exchange. The AQUA would send a small group of children of Council members to live with the Raaneki for 3 years. They would be between 8 and 13. Ranneka would reciprocate with a group of royals and their courtiers of the same age. If it was an ongoing thing, the benefits to both nations would be tremendous.

"I am certain the Jeweled Cities and the Quill would welcome such an opportunity, but I will have to check with them. Formalities and all that nonsense." Amber informed Anguri. "Just like I'm sure you'll need to check with the Lady Lomadi.. and Lord Ujval of course."

"Formalities!" Anguri laughed. A great many normal things seemed to give the princess no end of amusement. "Of course," she said, leading Amber to the nearest tavern, "We would permit any Raaneki to travel with these children. Our people are fond of the tales that come from your islands. But enough talk! Where did that strapping man, Talon, disappear?"

"It is true. We have had our projects, I suppose," she says with a coy glance at the Berundas. "Such beautiful birds. An incarnation of the old proverb - 'Nature creates beauty to decieve safety.' "

Toranath eyes the wine interestedly, and opens one, and takes a cup full. His eyes widen, and then close with pleasure, before he procures a second cup for his wife. Lyra takes it, and holds it idly, before she looks back at her southern friends. Worry is plain on her face. "Another meeting of the Dawn must be had. There is much happening around us, and I fear if we do not act, we may all be in peril. Not all the news is bad, even still." Lyra had always been a center of calm. But now, that calmness had cracks running through it.

((OOC: How do you want to do the Naval Battle? And Wenyavuk - the ranged tourney?))

"Would you believe they are naturally peaceful creatures?" said Lord Ujval, tracing the path of a berunda flying in the distance. "They eat mostly fruit, and only attack when threatened. A marvel, to be sure."

His expression soon turned nearly as grave as Lyra's. "Here," he said, handing her a goblet of clear wine. "This will be better for grave discussions. Surian Spring, year 324. It will clear our minds."

Do you want to RP out all of the discussion we've had in the League thread, or just montage our way to an agreement? As for the naval battle, you give me a pretty solid trouncing. I figured I'd let you start things off, considering the first round is your victory.

Ironfang looked to the skies, his green vision still able to decipher the rainbow colors that exploded over him. His expression remained completely neutral as he watched the firey birds make their descent, though his lip raised slightly at the sight of the Warrior Princess. A hollow memory of what glorious, physical combat felt like. But in an instant it was squashed, replaced by a light scowl, and slowly resetting itself to a flat unamused expression. For what it was worth, Wraith managed to retain this expression of neutrality, though he did falter and tilted his head to the side as he saw the birds up close.

The Stormvermin on the other hand, were far less apathetic to this display, and were instead highly agitated. They slumped their shoulders, lowering their heads as they watched the pyrotechnic display with unease and worry. It was not a fear of combat, Stormvermins were born for war, and in a straight battle the Berunda Riders while skilled would fall to black blades. No, this nervousness was born of a whole different reason, that of flight.

Tall heights were of no concern to the average Sympol, who lived, breathed, fought, and died on Mountains so tall that the surrounding forests looked like grass. But whilst trekking these dangerous heights, Sympol had a single unifying fact of life, that of a strong and sturdy earth to hold onto. The notion of flying through the air, plummeting at speeds unimaginable, and only trusting on such a thing as the flesh of some trained monster was ridiculous. In particular, it was stupid and dangerous. It was all they could do to maintain control over their mounts in the face of such absurdities.

Duke Ironfang stared at the Princess as she welcomed them, slowly sending his mount forward so that he may greet her properly. Taking the reigns off of his iron arm, the Duke began to flex his prosthetic arm. The screeching of metal on metal was practically ear bleeding, like two iron anvils slammed together and dragged roughly across. His claw opened up fully, a massive appendage that dwarfed his real fleshy paw, and with a heavy sigh he turned his body and held it out to shake Angari's hand.

"Well Princess, I have heard quite a few things about you and the land of Raaneka,"

He said in a dull, repetitive tone, as if he had rehearsed this a hundred times on the way there, and already tired of saying it now.

"I certainly hope they are true."

Princess Anguri could barely be seen to flinch at the sound of Ironfang's arm. She smiled wickedly when he had finished speaking. "You will see soon enough." She let the moment hang before offering the black bottle to the Duke. "Battlewine," she said, she who had chosen an iron sword over a silver tongue. "Quaff this along with your blood, and we will have ourselves a contest." She moved back and mounted her berunda. Turning back briefly, she called to the Duke one last time. "I hope to see you in the melee!"

Berunda and rider cried in unison, and the two of them erupted in a gout of flame, flying high into the sky and out of sight.

Tychris1

2014-04-08, 08:21 PM

The Duke looked down at the strange bottle, unable to feel the texture of the glass through his prosthetic limb, and merely sighed as he put it to the side. With a crack of his reigns, Ironfang ushered his mount forward, and with a curt growl he ordered his Stormvermin to pick up the pace.

"Let's get moving, the sooner I'm finished with this the better."

Pulling their reigns harshly, the ROUS mounted Entourage progressed through the streets with increased speed. Ironfang looked out to the crowd, a slight sneer of annoyance on his face from all the people staring at him. Though occasionally, just occasionally, Ironfang glanced at the bottle of Battlewine that had been gifted to him.

Rolls for Art Contest (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17273818&postcount=237), the rest of the race (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17273838&postcount=238), and the assorted combats. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17273968&postcount=239)

If I was misinformed and Lyradis does have competition, well, I'm open for dueling anyone really. I don't really care. I'll have Ironfangs Art contest up by tomorrow, this is gonna be good.

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-08, 11:50 PM

STANDINGS UPDATED.

I updated the standings and realized match ups for tournaments might not be easy to determine from the standings anymore. I hadn't planned to post, but I thought I'd keep track:

Duel: Sympolemou (victor)-Lyradis
Naval: Lyradis (victor)-Raaneka
Ranged: Raaneka (victor)-Jeweled Cities
Sympolemou (victor)-Raaneka
Lyradis (victor)-Wenyavuk

P.S. - It's hilarious that a dwarf on a cave horse is the champion of the mounted race.

Link to Ranged Tournie vs. Sympolemou (14/7/8) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17274943#post17274943)

lt_murgen

2014-04-09, 08:30 AM

TheWombatOfDoom

2014-04-09, 08:39 AM

"Would you believe they are naturally peaceful creatures?" said Lord Ujval, tracing the path of a berunda flying in the distance. "They eat mostly fruit, and only attack when threatened. A marvel, to be sure."

His expression soon turned nearly as grave as Lyra's. "Here," he said, handing her a goblet of clear wine. "This will be better for grave discussions. Surian Spring, year 324. It will clear our minds."

Do you want to RP out all of the discussion we've had in the League thread, or just montage our way to an agreement? As for the naval battle, you give me a pretty solid trouncing. I figured I'd let you start things off, considering the first round is your victory.

((OOC - Let's actually have a discussion. I'll be revealing some things a bit more, so theres that. Plus, I feel it would be good for our characters - especially since Lyra must choose her successor soon. ))

Lyra took the goblet, and held it gingerly, admiring the coloring of the liquid. She paused, thinking aprehensively about the time of day she would be partaking of wine, and then realized where she was. No one would think twice in Raaneka, unless she of course, decided not to drink at all. She imagined Raaneki staring in open horror at a comment like that.

It was with these thoughts she pulled from as she drew up a smile of appreciation for the wine, and thanked him. "Lead the way."

Morph Bark

2014-04-09, 09:53 AM

DAY THREE
(based on the assumption demonstration events would take place in-between main events)

The mawa playing their kudaka held the monk's interest strongly. He had seen it before once, but hadn't paid it much attention then, obstructed from view as it could be by the trees it was usually played in. The players were quite acrobatic, and he found it a bit of a shame that those who did not share the handy mawa feet couldn't really play it. "Marvelous game, isn't it?" He noted, pointing out a backflip by one of the players as he vaulted over an opponent and scored. He cheered along with the crowd and grinned unapologetically at Shvedristi. That was when he noticed something was a little off. "Oh Lord."

The announcers on the field let mawa players leave under the sound of applause before turning their attention to the duelling tournament. His eyes went wide as they shot to the field and scanned all entrances.

And there she was. She had changed her robes for a Kasumori cotton battle tunic and leather armour. She strut in line with the other participants for the duelling tournament, but to his knowledge she hadn't signed up. Did people have to sign up, anyway? He never had had any mind to participate, so he hadn't checked. However, it was his duty to teach and protect her, so the monk vaulted over the wall separating the stands from the arena's field to stop her, as the first duels already commenced.

Greta twirled a sickle on a chain in her left hand, gloved in a Welcoming Kracken glove that had been a gift from Jonas, one of her teachers. In her other hand she gripped a round shield, an oily smell coming from it. Adamantine shinguards protected her lower legs, but little else in the way of armour covered her. Her hair was tied back in a ponytail, leaving her face open, smirking cheekily at her potential opponents. "Hey you!" She called out to one of them as the announcer continued. "Your ass is mine."

(Unspecified who Greta is calling out, feel free to take it up. :smallwink: Dunno if someone running onto the fields would be cause for them being drafted into the tournament, but feel free to drag the monk in as well.)

Tychris1

2014-04-09, 10:59 AM

DAY FOUR

Ironfang looked out to the surrounding audience, his vision more warped then usual. Standing still was growing increasingly difficult, with his body swaying left and right, trying to restore some balance to his wobbly vision. Sounds became warped, ringing painfully in his ear, and crashing against his brain like shattered symbols. Holding out his prosthetic arm, the Duke sat down upon the stool that was given to him, and reached for the banjo set to the side for him. Breathing raggedly, Ironfang began to test the banjo with his prosthetic arm, balling it into a fist so as to use the knuckles as an improvised pick. With bloodshot eyes hidden behind green tinged glass, a shaking body, and breathe that reeked of far too much alcohol the Duke performed his song.

"I SEE THE BAD MOON ARISING!
I see trouble on the way.
I see earthquakes and lightnin'.
I see those bad times today!

Don't go 'round tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
THERE'S A BAD MOON ON THE RISE!

I hear hurricanes a blowing.
I know the end is coming soon.
I fear rivers over flowing.
I hear the voice of rage and ruin.

Well don't go around tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
There's a bad moon on the rise.

Hope you got your things together.
Hope you are quite prepared to die.
Looks like we're in for nasty weather.
One eye is taken for an eye.

Well don't go around tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
There's a bad moon on the rise.

Don't come around tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
There's a bad moon on the rise."

Stumbling off his stool, Ironfang slumped to the ground and passed out, his snoring only matched by the massive clang of his Iron Vermin suit hitting the ground.

Silverbit

2014-04-09, 11:50 AM

WaylanderX

2014-04-09, 12:55 PM

DAY TWO, MORNING

At dawn of the second day, the entourage of the Hurosha Empire made its entrance. Among them, 100 Kasumori Elite, guarding Nyllana, Empress of the Hurosha Empire and Eienguard of Kasumor as well as the three Ambassadors of Hurosha, namely Eleljak, the Bucka Ambassador of Zargrim, Irion, the Ore-Elf Ambassador of Shikurai and another, less familiar creature. Although cloaked at first, the cloak is shed when Nyllana glides forwards to introduce...him or it.
"Prowess to our Raaneki hosts. I come here today to partake in joy and competition. However, first I would like to introduce the newest Ambassador of Hurusha: Grïend, the Menhîrin Ambassador of Gwrîstîn."
His body shimmered, the light reflecting off of his crystaline skin. He was around 5 meters tall and had an aura of ancient wisdom and power around him.

http://37.media.tumblr.com/420e9d81d4d034773da846ae041de351/tumblr_n20xn9FHu11qjyqixo6_500.png

"He has already proven to be a good friend and a valuable asset to the Hurosha Empire. May our combined Prowess protect the lives we hold dear."
Although there wasnt any sign of a face on Grïend's body, he let our a sound akin to an avalance which appeared to be a heartly laugh.
"THANK...YOU...EIENGUARD. I....AM....NOT...FAMILIAR WITH THIS...INTRODUCING CUSTOM....OF YOURS....."
The Menhîrin bowed towards the people who were watching.
"I...AM GRÏEND...,...IN THE NAME....OF THE MENHÎRIN.....I BID YOU GREAT PROWESS....MAY ASHMAR...BE WITH YOU.."
He turned his head around the area, seemingly scanning the Gamegrounds.
"I WISH TO....TRY THIS....THING.....YOU CALL....FIGHTING...."
Nyllana nodded, a smile on her face.
"Go with my soldiers Grïend, they will lead you to the fighting games."
She turned towards the other Ambassadors.
"Let's meet our hosts, in the meantime, lets talk about our exports."

DAY THREE, MORNING

Much to his disappointment, Grïend found out that the duels and the mass melee were on the third day. But on the morning of the third day, he glided to the stand where they would register the participants.
"MORNING.....PEOPLE OF RAANEKA....I WISH TO....ENTER THE FRAY.........THE DUELS....AND THE MASS....MELEE......."

aspi

2014-04-09, 01:44 PM

DAY TWO, EVENING

For the Na'nuk:
Late in the evening, as torches began to be lit around the city and most of the events were winding down, Mormaer Razkai searches for Näiyop of the Na'nuk.
"Näiyop an Kal! Hail again! I told you earlier in the day that if the situation changed in regards to my Mithril, then I would inform you first. It seems that it has; let's keep it between ourselves, but the orcs no longer require the stuff. Would you be interested in trading some of your mighty mammoths for our Mithril? I can already see how my countrymen could use them in our industry."
The chieftain was standing at the parapet on top of the area, watching as the twilight slowly swallowed the harbor in the distance. He visibly revelled in the freshening breeze that came in from the ocean, washing away the day's heat in it's wake. He turned as he heard the dwarf's approacheing footstepsand greeted the Mormaer amiably. He listened to his proposal, then nodded. "We will make no mention of it, of course. I hope your orcish allies have just changed their plans and it has nothing to do with the Salterri who are their neighbours I believe?" His concern seemed genuine, but he did not hide his gladness that the deal might be struck after all. "We would be delighted to send you some of our trained mammoths. Are there any tasks you have in mind we might include in their training? As for the mithril, I believe I mentioned the runner plates? Ania, my sister, should be able to draw up specifications, I will consult with her later." He paused for a moment before continuing "I am wondering, is it possible to spin mithril into threads such as gold or silver threads one would use for embroidering? I would think a few of such threads could twisted into hemp ropes to increase their strength."

After they concluded talking about business, Näiyop changed the topic "There is another matter in which I could use your advice, Mormaer. You have recently incorporated the lands of Eyrecradia into your Kingdom, so I would like to know your view on the affairs in the Heartwaste. You may have heard that Elder Yuuhi of Sanctuary bestowed a claim upon me, before he vanished. Although I may not have been the only one. This situation is rather obscure and volatile, so I would value your insight."

The deal mammoth for mithril sounds good to me. I'd put it in my IC action if you agree.

DAY FOUR

Ironfang looked out to the surrounding audience, his vision more warped then usual. Standing still was growing increasingly difficult, with his body swaying left and right, trying to restore some balance to his wobbly vision. Sounds became warped, ringing painfully in his ear, and crashing against his brain like shattered symbols. Holding out his prosthetic arm, the Duke sat down upon the stool that was given to him, and reached for the banjo set to the side for him. Breathing raggedly, Ironfang began to test the banjo with his prosthetic arm, balling it into a fist so as to use the knuckles as an improvised pick. With bloodshot eyes hidden behind green tinged glass, a shaking body, and breathe that reeked of far too much alcohol the Duke performed his song.

"I SEE THE BAD MOON ARISING!
I see trouble on the way.
I see earthquakes and lightnin'.
I see those bad times today!

Don't go 'round tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
THERE'S A BAD MOON ON THE RISE!

I hear hurricanes a blowing.
I know the end is coming soon.
I fear rivers over flowing.
I hear the voice of rage and ruin.

Well don't go around tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
There's a bad moon on the rise.

Hope you got your things together.
Hope you are quite prepared to die.
Looks like we're in for nasty weather.
One eye is taken for an eye.

Well don't go around tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
There's a bad moon on the rise.

Don't come around tonight,
Well it's bound to take your life,
There's a bad moon on the rise."

Stumbling off his stool, Ironfang slumped to the ground and passed out, his snoring only matched by the massive clang of his Iron Vermin suit hitting the ground.
Bekya, who had been watching the performance from the crowd had to suppress an involuntary chuckle as the duke began to sing. This display was so grotesque it was almost amusing and definitely not what she had expected. She flinched as the duke collapsed but regained her composition quickly. She though for a while, then pulled out a small piece of parchment together with a pen of charcoal and wrote a single sentence on it. She walked up to one of the Stormvermin and bravely looked him directly in the eye. "Please give this to your Lord when he wakes up. Tell him to come and find me when he has figured out the answer... or is ready to give up." Without saying another word or even mentioning who she was, she turned around and left.

The note reads:
How's a plummeting berunda like Criman whiskey?

Lady Lomadi laughed a knowing laugh at Ania's description of the young woman. "Her graces are still far better than my sister, Anguri's. Bekya is in good company! We Raaneki have not been a part of the wide world for long, and I am afraid we lack some of the graces of Telluris ourselves." Bystanders would have looked at Lomadi's sheer dress, the wild revelry beneath the dais, or the heaping handful of stark naked Raaneki skirting the corner of the throng, and would have a new appreciation for understatement.

Later, discussing Bapa and the tigers, Lady Lomadi raised her eyebrows with interest. "So much we do not know of the ways of our neighbors!" In Raaneka, even someone as far away as Wenyavuk was considered a neighbor. "I had understood it was a daring tale Näyiop told, but I had no idea it caused such a rift between them! Tigers much be fearsome and sacred indeed."

Ania regaled Lady Lomadi with more details of the Arctic Institute. "You know," Lomadi said, pouring each of them a fresh goblet of Heartwine. "It sounds as though your plans for the Institute may be delayed longer than Bapa's stay. It sounds also as though Bekya could use training from a warrior culture. What if, when Bapa travels north, Bekya came to live here, and study warfare and combat from my sister? She would be an honored guest of our house, of course, and we would never encroach upon her comfort or propriety." Participation in the lifestyle of Raaneka was never compulsory, but exposure would be unavoidable in such circumstances. No few had protested the "garish licentiousness" of Raaneka, but just as many had discovered joys they never knew existed.

My end of the offer just became apparent as I was posting! Feel free to say yay or nay, either works for me!
Ania gratefully accepted the freshly filled cup, her appreciation for Raaneki hospitality growing with each sip "We would be delighted to welcome Bapa and I am sure we will find something for him to do in addition to hunting tigers. Snowstorms are fierce during the winter months, when hunting is ill advised. But Näiyop always welcomes novel advice, especially if it comes from someone with a different background." Not that he was always as eager to take it though, she thought. She leaned back into the soft cushions "As far as Bekya is concerned, I am afraid cannot speak for her. It sounds like an offer she might appreciate and it would certainly be a good opportunity to hone her skills in combat. But alas, she has her own mind and I do not venture to guess at her inclinations. But I will relay your invitation to her."

I'm not sure how this turn will play out for Bekya yet, it depends on the bachelor situation really. If she ends up getting married, she probably couldn't stay. If she doesn't, she'd definitely like to spend some time in Raaneka. Either way, I'll put it in my action post before the round is done.

Silverbit

2014-04-09, 03:04 PM

The chieftain was standing at the parapet on top of the area, watching as the twilight slowly swallowed the harbor in the distance. He visibly revelled in the freshening breeze that came in from the ocean, washing away the day's heat in it's wake. He turned as he heard the dwarf's approacheing footstepsand greeted the Mormaer amiably. He listened to his proposal, then nodded. "We will make no mention of it, of course. I hope your orcish allies have just changed their plans and it has nothing to do with the Salterri who are their neighbours I believe?" His concern seemed genuine, but he did not hide his gladness that the deal might be struck after all. "We would be delighted to send you some of our trained mammoths. Are there any tasks you have in mind we might include in their training? As for the mithril, I believe I mentioned the runner plates? Ania, my sister, should be able to draw up specifications, I will consult with her later." He paused for a moment before continuing "I am wondering, is it possible to spin mithril into threads such as gold or silver threads one would use for embroidering? I would think a few of such threads could twisted into hemp ropes to increase their strength."

After they concluded talking about business, Näiyop changed the topic "There is another matter in which I could use your advice, Mormaer. You have recently incorporated the lands of Eyrecradia into your Kingdom, so I would like to know your view on the affairs in the Heartwaste. You may have heard that Elder Yuuhi of Sanctuary bestowed a claim upon me, before he vanished. Although I may not have been the only one. This situation is rather obscure and volatile, so I would value your insight."

"The Salterri? I do not think they are involved. We cowed them so thoroughly on the fields of Hrathan-Tuor that many of their component states are splitting away and becoming independent. As for the Mammoth training? Have them docile, and good at lifting heavy loads, and we can use them in the mines and as transport. I have not thought of cloth-of-Mithril. If gold can be spun, so can be Mithril, I suppose. Ropes of Mithril would be a strong substance, aye, but rather pricey for that. Simple hemp would serve well enough, and be cheaper."

"I am staying well out of the way in that benighted and war-torn land. It's nothing but trouble, my father was nearly drawn into battle many times there. Razdis remains neutral above ground in Eyrecradia. My only insight appertaining to those lands is to avoid conflict. Either that or destroy all the Bloodfire; no good can come of it."

OOC:
Good, putting it in my action now.

DAY TWO, MORNING

At dawn of the second day, the entourage of the Hurosha Empire made its entrance. Among them, 100 Kasumori Elite, guarding Nyllana, Empress of the Hurosha Empire and Eienguard of Kasumor as well as the three Ambassadors of Hurosha, namely Eleljak, the Bucka Ambassador of Zargrim, Irion, the Ore-Elf Ambassador of Shikurai and another, less familiar creature. Although cloaked at first, the cloak is shed when Nyllana glides forwards to introduce...him or it.
"Prowess to our Raaneki hosts. I come here today to partake in joy and competition. However, first I would like to introduce the newest Ambassador of Hurusha: Grïend, the Menhîrin Ambassador of Gwrîstîn."
His body shimmered, the light reflecting off of his crystaline skin. He was around 5 meters tall and had an aura of ancient wisdom and power around him.

http://37.media.tumblr.com/420e9d81d4d034773da846ae041de351/tumblr_n20xn9FHu11qjyqixo6_500.png

"He has already proven to be a good friend and a valuable asset to the Hurosha Empire. May our combined Prowess protect the lives we hold dear."
Although there wasnt any sign of a face on Grïend's body, he let our a sound akin to an avalance which appeared to be a heartly laugh.
"THANK...YOU...EIENGUARD. I....AM....NOT...FAMILIAR WITH THIS...INTRODUCING CUSTOM....OF YOURS....."
The Menhîrin bowed towards the people who were watching.
"I...AM GRÏEND...,...IN THE NAME....OF THE MENHÎRIN.....I BID YOU GREAT PROWESS....MAY ASHMAR...BE WITH YOU.."
He turned his head around the area, seemingly scanning the Gamegrounds.
"I WISH TO....TRY THIS....THING.....YOU CALL....FIGHTING...."
Nyllana nodded, a smile on her face.
"Go with my soldiers Grïend, they will lead you to the fighting games."
She turned towards the other Ambassadors.
"Let's meet our hosts, in the meantime, lets talk about our exports."

Razkai, Mormaer of Razdis, leaves his conversation and walks to the hulking Grïend. Razkai is rather awed; the faith of the Razdissi is Mineral Animism, and Grïend is about as mineral as you can get.
"Hail… hail from the dwarves, honoured mineraling Grïend. Our customs are unknown to you, as are yours to ours, but I shall say this. Any land where the very rocks themselves walk is of interest to me and my people; I hope we shall have diplomatic agreements with you and the Hurosha Empire in the future, pertaining to it."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-09, 05:01 PM

How ridiculous! The AQUA delegation was going to race a mammoth in the mounted race. It brought laughter and delight to the crowd to see the lumbering beast lined up with the other mounts. It nearly turned into a riot when the Wenyavuk arrived with theirs.

It was flat out pandemonium when the rhino turned up. The local authorities thought they might actually have to clear the area around the starting line, just for the sheer volume. Then, the armored giant rat appeared, turning the mood much more somber.

At the outset, the armored rat and its rider soon put everyone else behind them. The AQUA rider tried their best to stay close to Princess Uristine on her Razdissi horse. He finished a good distance behind her, yet still the beating the other lumbering beasts. The Painted coast was known to be trecherous, and proved its reputation.

On the next day, the AQUA rider suffered badly through the lower berrylands. His mammoth was constantly distracted by the sight and smell of the vineyards. It was all the driver could do to keep his mount from speed grazing every orchard it saw. The armored rat had similar issues, the numerous sights and smells causing control issues for the rider. The Princess managed to finish that leg first.

Up and into the climb into Serab, this is where the mammoth came into its own. It was cool and steep. Princess Urstine’s horse labored a bit, but the mammoth was in its element. The armored rat gave the mammoth its closest race. It became clear, however, that the mammoth was desperately afraid of the creature. Speed inspired fear allowed it to race ahead and win the leg.

IN the end, Princess Uristine took the event, with the fastest combined time. The ROUS and rider were second, and the AQUA mammoth third.

Also, anyone else want to challenge Amber to combat?

As a sign of their everlasting friendship, Prince Tikta Satato brought a whole plate full of Raaneki cookies to the Islander chronicler who gave that stirring account of the mounted race!

((OOC - Let's actually have a discussion. I'll be revealing some things a bit more, so theres that. Plus, I feel it would be good for our characters - especially since Lyra must choose her successor soon. ))

Lyra took the goblet, and held it gingerly, admiring the coloring of the liquid. She paused, thinking aprehensively about the time of day she would be partaking of wine, and then realized where she was. No one would think twice in Raaneka, unless she of course, decided not to drink at all. She imagined Raaneki staring in open horror at a comment like that.

It was with these thoughts she pulled from as she drew up a smile of appreciation for the wine, and thanked him. "Lead the way."

Day One
"Say no more!" Lady and Lord walked with Lyra through the streets of Bandar, accompanied by a handful of nobles and a host of revelers. The crowds eventually thinned, and the group entered the Palace of Raaneka. It was not as grand as the harbor stadium nearby, but it nevertheless held a certain majesty. Wide porches wrapped the entire building in copious outdoor space, and inside the structure was divided more with drapes than with walls. Chairs were available for any who preferred them, but the Raaneki reclined upon sumptuous cushions of purple and yellow silk. Wine and food were brought out even as a messenger was sent out into the throng.

That messenger arrived at the Razdisi host with an invitation to attend the palace for a meeting of the Dawn League.

"We have heard poor tidings from Qarimos in recent days," Lord Ujval said, popping a green grape in his mouth. "And of our friends in Grmanhil we have had no word for some months. Do you think the battle with the Salterri could have frightened our neighbors into silence?" Lord Ujval struggled to imagine a Grmanhili Orc to be frightened of anything, but long , youthful years in the taverns of Bandar had destroyed most of his capacity for surprise.

Day Two
Captain Naviki the Able stood on the prow of her ship in Bandar Harbor. Three other ships--all Raaneki galleys--floated beside her. Their hulls were crafted of yellow wood from the forest near Sarab, and their sails were woven of fine purple silk. Rowers, sailors, and archers were present on each ships, but so too were hornblowers and drummers. Their music would coordinate the movement of the ships, and Naviki would be their conductor. She was past her prime, but perhaps there were a few more years of adventure and service left to her.

She looked across the bay at the Lyradissian fleet. Both fleets were similar in make, but the Lyradissians seemed to zip across the water regardless of wind. It troubled her. She must be ready for any surprise.

DAY THREE
(based on the assumption demonstration events would take place in-between main events)
*snip*

Up in the stands, Avam Devdano, the Wandering Prince, was taking a break from his own competitions to enjoy a few duels. Those behind him would have had trouble seeing around his height and girth, and anyone within earshot would have been well aware of his preference for Crimar Bat Crisps. "Like nothing on earth!" he barked, for what must have been the tenth time.

He laughed loud and long when the monk was dragged onto the field. "Half a warrior and all of a monk! Sounds like a few kids I've sired in Celero." he said to no one in particular. "Will they fight? Ay, I'll fight them both if they find no competitor!" He took a long pull from his flagon, though plenty spilled down over his ample gut.

DAY FOUR
*snip*

The Raaneki in the crowd strained to hear the song, but erupted into applause when the Duke fell over drunk. In Raaneka, there could be no finer ending to a song.

DAY TWO, MORNING

At dawn of the second day, the entourage of the Hurosha Empire made its entrance. Among them, 100 Kasumori Elite, guarding Nyllana, Empress of the Hurosha Empire and Eienguard of Kasumor as well as the three Ambassadors of Hurosha, namely Eleljak, the Bucka Ambassador of Zargrim, Irion, the Ore-Elf Ambassador of Shikurai and another, less familiar creature. Although cloaked at first, the cloak is shed when Nyllana glides forwards to introduce...him or it.
"Prowess to our Raaneki hosts. I come here today to partake in joy and competition. However, first I would like to introduce the newest Ambassador of Hurusha: Grïend, the Menhîrin Ambassador of Gwrîstîn."
His body shimmered, the light reflecting off of his crystaline skin. He was around 5 meters tall and had an aura of ancient wisdom and power around him.

http://37.media.tumblr.com/420e9d81d4d034773da846ae041de351/tumblr_n20xn9FHu11qjyqixo6_500.png

"He has already proven to be a good friend and a valuable asset to the Hurosha Empire. May our combined Prowess protect the lives we hold dear."
Although there wasnt any sign of a face on Grïend's body, he let our a sound akin to an avalance which appeared to be a heartly laugh.
"THANK...YOU...EIENGUARD. I....AM....NOT...FAMILIAR WITH THIS...INTRODUCING CUSTOM....OF YOURS....."
The Menhîrin bowed towards the people who were watching.
"I...AM GRÏEND...,...IN THE NAME....OF THE MENHÎRIN.....I BID YOU GREAT PROWESS....MAY ASHMAR...BE WITH YOU.."
He turned his head around the area, seemingly scanning the Gamegrounds.
"I WISH TO....TRY THIS....THING.....YOU CALL....FIGHTING...."
Nyllana nodded, a smile on her face.
"Go with my soldiers Grïend, they will lead you to the fighting games."
She turned towards the other Ambassadors.
"Let's meet our hosts, in the meantime, lets talk about our exports."

DAY THREE, MORNING

Much to his disappointment, Grïend found out that the duels and the mass melee were on the third day. But on the morning of the third day, he glided to the stand where they would register the participants.
"MORNING.....PEOPLE OF RAANEKA....I WISH TO....ENTER THE FRAY.........THE DUELS....AND THE MASS....MELEE......."

The wide-eyed Raaneka on the stand hooted in surprise at Grïend and spewed out a blazing trail of Raaneki speech. "Welcome!" he said finally, a smile plastered wide across his face. "What, uh, what weapon will you use?"

Instructions on what to roll are up in the Event Mechanics spoiler in the OP. The Standings spoiler will show you who's leading which events. For duels, find someone and challenge them. For the melee, just roll three times and add the number together. Enjoy!

*snip*

Lady Lomadi's eyebrows raised in excitement. "Ah, yes! I have heard Bekya has many admirers." She sipped at her wine. "I can see why. What spirit! What your love customs in Wenyavuk? Do you marry?"

Silverbit

2014-04-09, 05:18 PM

SamBurke

2014-04-09, 06:38 PM

Silverbit

2014-04-09, 06:54 PM

The evening of the second day, the dwarves of Razdis seek a visitor waiting outside their tent. He bows, and comes up with a smile. "I seek an audience with the great miners, and have traveled many lands. Across the continent I come south, and I wish to speak to you on a matter close to the heart of the Doge. May I enter?"

"Aye, if ye have peaceful intent."
The guards cease barring the way with spears, and the Guilderine is allowed to pass.

Razkai II, Mormaer of Razdis, Lord of Elbaraz and Eyrecradia and Sulvan Primarch, is sat peacefully in a camp chair drinking Raaneki Heartwine. His eyepatch is a simple red cloth one instead of the Mithril covering the Mormaer normally wears whilst in public.

"Come, Guilderine, and let us talk of this matter."

Razkai offers the envoy a drink.

SamBurke

2014-04-09, 07:05 PM

"Aye, if ye have peaceful intent."
The guards cease barring the way with spears, and the Guilderine is allowed to pass.

Razkai II, Mormaer of Razdis, Lord of Elbaraz and Eyrecradia and Sulvan Primarch, is sat peacefully in a camp chair drinking Raaneki Heartwine. His eyepatch is a simple red cloth one instead of the Mithril covering the Mormaer normally wears whilst in public.

"Come, Guilderine, and let us talk of this matter."

Razkai offers the envoy a drink.

The man nods, setting his own flask of Heartwine alongside Razkai's mightier drink. "A man of Guilder is never without a gift." He smiles and bows. "My name is Viz, one of the Princes of Guilder and head diplomat to the south for the Doge. I do indeed come in peace; Humperdink truly enjoys his name of "Just", for he now speaks only ever of trade and treaties.

"It is on one of these treaties that I come as a mission... my Doge wishes to trade for Mithril, in hopes that it can be used as readily for learning as for war. So I took it upon myself to enter here and ask your delegation: are you interested in trade?"

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-09, 08:10 PM

Princess Cassandra Satato, once a lady of faraway Bordeux and now an envoy and matron of her house, approached the Sycian attendees with her husband, Prince Tikta. "Welcome, athletes and all those faithful to Yphine! May your valor and skill be rewarded in these coming days!" Looking at the young girl, she curtsied and offered her hand. The little girl might have been the only person short enough to notice Cassandra's only tattoo, and small, black circle, underneath her chin. "I am pleased to meet you, young lady. I am Lomadi. Who are you?"

Her husband offered his hand to the High Priestess. "Welcome, High Priestess Fabula! You are like pure ice in the full light of day, as ever. Come, tell me any need, and we shall satisfy it on our way to a fine Rabodi Midnight vintage."

The little girl smiles at Cassandra cheerfully, looking up with interest at her tattoo.
"Glamora, miss."
The little girl says, twiddling her thumbs shyly. She seems especially advanced, sophisticated, and articulate for her young age.

Fabula leaves Glamora to Cassandra and turns to her husband.
"If I may, I would like to find and speak to the party from Wenyavuk as my party finds its lodging."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-09, 09:01 PM

((Previous post updated for Way and aspi.))

The little girl smiles at Cassandra cheerfully, looking up with interest at her tattoo.
"Glamora, miss."
The little girl says, twiddling her thumbs shyly. She seems especially advanced, sophisticated, and articulate for her young age.

Fabula leaves Glamora to Cassandra and turns to her husband.
"If I may, I would like to find and speak to the party from Wenyavuk as my party finds its lodging."

Cassandra chatted with young Glamora while Prince Tikta spoke to the High Priestess. "Of course, of course!" He spoke to a few Raaneki nearby and they helped the Sycians to their lodging. The High Priestess would be staying in one of the largest homes in Bandar. She and as many as twelve of her party were welcome to stay until their travel to Sarab. "I believe the Na'nuk are speaking with my brother and sister, the Lady and Lord. Shall we go meet them, or would you prefer to speak with them in private?"

Basically, you're welcome to join our conversation, or you can approach them on your own. :smallsmile:

Silverbit

2014-04-10, 06:07 AM

The man nods, setting his own flask of Heartwine alongside Razkai's mightier drink. "A man of Guilder is never without a gift." He smiles and bows. "My name is Viz, one of the Princes of Guilder and head diplomat to the south for the Doge. I do indeed come in peace; Humperdink truly enjoys his name of "Just", for he now speaks only ever of trade and treaties.

"It is on one of these treaties that I come as a mission... my Doge wishes to trade for Mithril, in hopes that it can be used as readily for learning as for war. So I took it upon myself to enter here and ask your delegation: are you interested in trade?"

"My humble apologies, Prince Viz, but all our Mithril is well accounted for. Should our miners locate any more, you will be informed."

WaylanderX

2014-04-10, 06:35 AM

Day 2

Razkai, Mormaer of Razdis, leaves his conversation and walks to the hulking Grïend. Razkai is rather awed; the faith of the Razdissi is Mineral Animism, and Grïend is about as mineral as you can get.
"Hail… hail from the dwarves, honoured mineraling Grïend. Our customs are unknown to you, as are yours to ours, but I shall say this. Any land where the very rocks themselves walk is of interest to me and my people; I hope we shall have diplomatic agreements with you and the Hurosha Empire in the future, pertaining to it."

Grïend looked down to Razkai and seemed lost in thought. Were these the Dvargs of legend, the bringers of destruction, the ones who tried to mine his people in ages past. It wouldn't be wise to assume things though.
"WELL MET.....ARE YOU.....DVARG?...ARE YOU....ONE OF THE CREATURES....THAT TRIED TO.....HARVEST...MY PEOPLE?...."
Grïend's massive body shifted to better take a look at Razkai.
"IF SO....THE WOUNDS OF MY PEOPLE....OF THE MENHÎRIN...WILL BE HARD....TO HEAL....HOWEVER...."
Grïend lowered his body, although it still left him 2 meters tall.
"PERHAPS.....NOT IMPOSSIBLE.."

Day 3

The wide-eyed Raaneka on the stand hooted in surprise at Grïend and spewed out a blazing trail of Raaneki speech. "Welcome!" he said finally, a smile plastered wide across his face. "What, uh, what weapon will you use?"

"WEAPONS?...."
Grïend right "arm" shifted in form, forming a huge crystal spike.
"MY BODY....IS MY WEAPON.....I THANK YOU.....FOR YOUR TIME...."

Grïend left the stand, floating towards the dueling grounds. Everywhere around, he say creatures, made of delicate flesh, sparring and fighting. We would have to be gentle, or their flesh would rupture and Nyllana would be disappointed. Gathering his courage (Yes, he has emotions) he called out:
WARRIORS.....I....GRÏEND....REQUIRE AN OPPONENT....FOR COMBAT...FOR A DUEL....WHO WILL FIGHT ME?....

Day 2

Meanwhile, Nyllana and her other two Ambassadors walked (or in Nyllana's case, glided) towards where they thought the leaders of Raaneka were.
"What are they like, these Raaneki-jin?" Irion asked Nyllana, a bit anxious. This was his first visit to an allied nation.
Nyllana smiled reassuringly. "The Raaneki are a fun-loving folk as you can see. They will welcome us with open arms, if their disposition hasnt changed in the last few years."
Eleljak snickered: "The Raaneki-jin? Change their party-all attitude? I think not, my lady."
Nyllana chuckled, her hair waving in the wind.
"Perhaps, perhaps, there are miracles in the world though. On a more serious note, did you two regulate your imports back home?"
"Yes my lady, the best quality Chikurai squid is being shipped as we speak." Irion said, his pride in his country evident due to his puffed up chest while he spoke.
"Yes, Empress, it's all arranged to your liking. I've already fixed things with Grïend aswell." Eleljak added.
"Very well, good job you two." Nyllana said, her illuminating smile on her face. She wasn't called the Empress of Light in the Hurosha Empire for nothing.

They arrived at the building where the Lady and Lord of Raaneka resided.
Nyllana approached the building, speaking to the guards outside:
"Prowess to you, gentlemen, I am Nyllana, Empress of the Hurosha Empire. I would like to have a word with our hosts, the Lady and Lord of Raaneka, Lomadi and Ujval Devdano. Are they available?"

Silverbit

2014-04-10, 06:42 AM

Day 2

Grïend looked down to Razkai and seemed lost in thought. Were these the Dvargs of legend, the bringers of destruction, the ones who tried to mine his people in ages past. It wouldn't be wise to assume things though.
"WELL MET.....ARE YOU.....DVARG?...ARE YOU....ONE OF THE CREATURES....THAT TRIED TO.....HARVEST...MY PEOPLE?...."
Grïend's massive body shifted to better take a look at Razkai.
"IF SO....THE WOUNDS OF MY PEOPLE....OF THE MENHÎRIN...WILL BE HARD....TO HEAL....HOWEVER...."
Grïend lowered his body, although it still left him 2 meters tall.
"PERHAPS.....NOT IMPOSSIBLE.."

Razkai stands unflinching.
"My people are the Razdissi, and we bear in our veins the blood of Ore elves and dwarves. If dwarves are the dvarg of whom you speak, I can but apologise for the conduct of my countrymen. And wounds can heal; or be patched and repaired with new material, stronger than the old. I look forward to meeting more of your kin, mineraling."

Morph Bark

2014-04-10, 06:55 AM

TheWombatOfDoom

2014-04-10, 07:00 AM

Day One
"Say no more!" Lady and Lord walked with Lyra through the streets of Bandar, accompanied by a handful of nobles and a host of revelers. The crowds eventually thinned, and the group entered the Palace of Raaneka. It was not as grand as the harbor stadium nearby, but it nevertheless held a certain majesty. Wide porches wrapped the entire building in copious outdoor space, and inside the structure was divided more with drapes than with walls. Chairs were available for any who preferred them, but the Raaneki reclined upon sumptuous cushions of purple and yellow silk. Wine and food were brought out even as a messenger was sent out into the throng.

That messenger arrived at the Razdisi host with an invitation to attend the palace for a meeting of the Dawn League.

"We have heard poor tidings from Qarimos in recent days," Lord Ujval said, popping a green grape in his mouth. "And of our friends in Grmanhil we have had no word for some months. Do you think the battle with the Salterri could have frightened our neighbors into silence?" Lord Ujval struggled to imagine a Grmanhili Orc to be frightened of anything, but long , youthful years in the taverns of Bandar had destroyed most of his capacity for surprise.

Vali son of Razkai arrived, attired in light leathers and a steel circlet set with amber. He took some wine, then spoke.
"Aye, tidings look grim for the east. First Qarimos, then Grmanhil. We can only hope that the nations find a firm ruler to settle them. Without a guiding hand, nations descend into anarchy and banditry. Either it is as you say, and the Salterri frightened them into retreat, or those southron schist-men have been actively formenting unease. I wouldn't put it past them; they'll have learned by now that open force doesn't work. Our Razdissi Deepdart killed hundreds of them alone."

Lyra nods seriously. "Not to mention that these two nations were our main defending ones. I certainly do not have the forces to defend my nations, let alone all of ours, at present. That they have fallen silent does not bode well...though...did I not see Chief Bangboom here at the games?" She turned to Lord Ujval. "Qarimos' leadership - Prince Alkili - was growing old and had no heir to pass on to. He had communicated interest in allowing Jacob, the son of his sister and my brother, to take on the throne. However, despite my love of Qarimos, I have a duty as a League member to discuss this with you, especially since it is a neighboring nation of yours. At present, while Qarimos would be a joy to add to the Kingdom of Lyradis, this might be an opportunity to unite our nations a bit more closely. Long have we been attempting to arrange a union of our families in some scale...perhaps Jacob could marry one of your daughters, and they could lead Qarimos as you and your wife do, putting the nation in your hands."

Tychris1

2014-04-10, 07:00 AM

Bekya, who had been watching the performance from the crowd had to suppress an involuntary chuckle as the duke began to sing. This display was so grotesque it was almost amusing and definitely not what she had expected. She flinched as the duke collapsed but regained her composition quickly. She though for a while, then pulled out a small piece of parchment together with a pen of charcoal and wrote a single sentence on it. She walked up to one of the Stormvermin and bravely looked him directly in the eye. "Please give this to your Lord when he wakes up. Tell him to come and find me when he has figured out the answer... or is ready to give up." Without saying another word or even mentioning who she was, she turned around and left.

To come in a bit

Day 3

"WEAPONS?...."
Grïend right "arm" shifted in form, forming a huge crystal spike.
"MY BODY....IS MY WEAPON.....I THANK YOU.....FOR YOUR TIME...."

Grïend left the stand, floating towards the dueling grounds. Everywhere around, he say creatures, made of delicate flesh, sparring and fighting. We would have to be gentle, or their flesh would rupture and Nyllana would be disappointed. Gathering his courage (Yes, he has emotions) he called out:
WARRIORS.....I....GRÏEND....REQUIRE AN OPPONENT....FOR COMBAT...FOR A DUEL....WHO WILL FIGHT ME?....

Duke Ironfang looked at his halberd, a fine enough weapon in the hands of a human, but for a Sympol it was an extension of his body. Like another cold, prosthetic arm he could interact with the world through, though in a much much bloodier manner. Not that his current arm was exactly quaint or charming. He twirled it easily in his real hand, bouncing it back and forth as he felt its weight, and grew adjusted to it. He was almost getting used to the flamboyant and aggravating nature of the Raaneki people..... almost. Any progress he had in getting used to his surroundings were shattered by the sudden appearance of a floating crystal monster. Tilting his head, Duke Ironfang slowly walked forward and sized the crystal up and down.

Leaning his halberd against his spiked pauldron, Ironfang nodded his head to Griend and spoke in a much lower, hollow voice.

"I've bested many a stranger monster before, you'll be no different."

Assuming this post doesn't get subsumed, rolls. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17281953&postcount=244)

WaylanderX

2014-04-10, 07:03 AM

"HEY ROCKBRAIN!" Greta called out behind Grïend. She banged the side of her shield with the large sickle and grinned at the large, hulking monolith. "Let's have a go, shall we?"

"ROCK.....BRAIN?....HHMMM....THAT IS THIS....BRAIN....YOU SPEAK OF?....NO MATTER....LETS GO INDEED. IN THE NAME....OF ASHMAR!"
Grïend bursted into motion, his right arm formed in a spike of pure, blue crystal. He charged Greta like an avalanche upon a mountain goat. With a mighty rumbling roar, he thrusted the spike towards Greta:

Militairy Attack Rolls (Half Mil):
Link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17281996&postcount=245)

WaylanderX

2014-04-10, 07:12 AM

Duke Ironfang looked at his halberd, a fine enough weapon in the hands of a human, but for a Sympol it was an extension of his body. Like another cold, prosthetic arm he could interact with the world through, though in a much much bloodier manner. Not that his current arm was exactly quaint or charming. He twirled it easily in his real hand, bouncing it back and forth as he felt its weight, and grew adjusted to it. He was almost getting used to the flamboyant and aggravating nature of the Raaneki people..... almost. Any progress he had in getting used to his surroundings were shattered by the sudden appearance of a floating crystal monster. Tilting his head, Duke Ironfang slowly walked forward and sized the crystal up and down.

Leaning his halberd against his spiked pauldron, Ironfang nodded his head to Griend and spoke in a much lower, hollow voice.

"I've bested many a stranger monster before, you'll be no different."

*Takes place after the fight with Greta*

Grïend rumbled, as if laughing.
"MONSTER?.....YOU LOOK MUCH MORE.....MONSTEROUS....THEN ME.......HALF MENHÎRIN....HALF FLESHLING......FINE THEN.....LETS FIGHT......MONSTER....VERSUS MONSTER......"
Grïend hand shifted from a giant spike to a spiked ball of razor sharp crystals. Likewise, more crystals appeared all over his body. He seized the moment to look at Ironfang, then went on the offensive. He charged at Ironfang, halfway curling up, spinning towards Ironfang at a great speed, as a blue blur of devastation.

Militairy Roll (Half Militairy): link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17281996&postcount=245)

After the fight:
"IT APPEARS.....YOU'RE MORE....MONSTROUS...THEN ME.....WELL FOUGHT.....IRONLING....."
Grïend forms a hand out of his right arm and stretches it in friendship towards Ironfang.

Morph Bark

2014-04-10, 07:28 AM

*some narrative control taken of Grïend with prior consent from Waylander*

"ROCK.....BRAIN?....HHMMM....THAT IS THIS....BRAIN....YOU SPEAK OF?....NO MATTER....LETS GO INDEED. IN THE NAME....OF ASHMAR!"
Grïend bursted into motion, his right arm formed in a spike of pure, blue crystal. He charged Greta like an avalanche upon a mountain goat. With a mighty rumbling roar, he thrusted the spike towards Greta:

Greta dodged the thrust from the giant crystalline creature and slid between his legs. She flung the sickle at Grïend's shoulder and hooked onto him. She leapt and reeled, pulling herself into a climb onto his back and bashed her shield against his head, flames sparking off it. She was a little too focused and noticed the giant pillar soaring towards her too late. With a loud cry she was slammed off Grïend and the large creature swung the pillar-like arm around as he turned to her and rose up. Greta let out a sharp breath and rolled out of the way just in time before he hit the ground with a thunderous crash the likes of which the gods would be proud of. Grïend was slow to rise, but Greta was back on her feet with a quick flip and tried to chain what seemed to be his legs. Alas, the creature's anatomy was too alien and she was too late. She was struck again and her shield broke away from her arm, the leather bands snapped with the force of the blow. "I yield!" Grïend bashed the ground again, but she was a few feet further in an instant. "That means I give up, ass-brick!"

link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17282009#post17282009)

WaylanderX

2014-04-10, 07:41 AM

*some narrative control taken of Grïend with prior consent from Waylander*

Greta dodged the thrust from the giant crystalline creature and slid between his legs. She flung the sickle at Grïend's shoulder and hooked onto him. She leapt and reeled, pulling herself into a climb onto his back and bashed her shield against his head, flames sparking off it. She was a little too focused and noticed the giant pillar soaring towards her too late. With a loud cry she was slammed off Grïend and the large creature swung the pillar-like arm around as he turned to her and rose up. Greta let out a sharp breath and rolled out of the way just in time before he hit the ground with a thunderous crash the likes of which the gods would be proud of. Grïend was slow to rise, but Greta was back on her feet with a quick flip and tried to chain what seemed to be his legs. Alas, the creature's anatomy was too alien and she was too late. She was struck again and her shield broke away from her arm, the leather bands snapped with the force of the blow. "I yield!" Grïend bashed the ground again, but she was a few feet further in an instant. "That means I give up, ass-brick!"

link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17282009#post17282009)

"MY APOLOGIES.....YOU FOUGHT......WELL......FLESHLING......"
Grïend offered a huge hand, softly rumbling with laughter.
"SO.....WHAT IS YOUR.....NAME......LITTLE ONE?......"

Nearby, Nyllana was watching the match. Althought he was inexperienced in battle, Grïend was a terror to behold on the battlefield.
Her eyes fell on Paco Guzman. That was the person her father mentioned in his final letter. She clutched the object in her pockets tightly. "His sacrifice will not be in vain." She thought and she glided towards Paco. When she was next to him, she said: "Good day, Paco Guzman, I am Nyllana Earthguard, Eienguard of Kasumor and I have a favor to ask of you. Could we talk somewhere less crowded than there?"

lt_murgen

2014-04-10, 08:52 AM

OOC:
Amber will challenge both Ironfang and Greta to duels. Rolling around with Anguri got her blood up.

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17282378&postcount=248

Morph Bark

2014-04-10, 09:30 AM

OOC:
Amber will challenge both Ironfang and Greta to duels. Rolling around with Anguri got her blood up.

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17282378&postcount=248

*checks rolls*

Oh COME ON! XD

*rolls*

Whoop! Looks like it's a tie (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17282611&posted=1#post17282611)!

SamBurke

2014-04-10, 09:43 AM

"My humble apologies, Prince Viz, but all our Mithril is well accounted for. Should our miners locate any more, you will be informed."

"
"Sir, you really need to leave the field, it's for participants only and the battles have already begun." The announcer and two referees were pushing Paco back. "But she is too young to participate! She can't participate! Don't you know who she is?!" "Seems old enough to me, sir. Now let's go up to the stands and have some wine, alright?"
Viz, leader of the Guilderene delegation, takes note of Paco, and decides to follow a discreet way behind him. They haven't drawn swords, but there are many angry looks among the group.

[COLOR="#008080"]Nearby, Nyllana was watching the match. Althought he was inexperienced in battle, Grïend was a terror to behold on the battlefield.
Her eyes fell on Paco Guzman. That was the person her father mentioned in his final letter. She clutched the object in her pockets tightly. [COLOR="#800080"]"His sacrifice will not be in vain." She thought and she glided towards Paco. When she was next to him, she said: "Good day, Paco Guzman, I am Nyllana Earthguard, Eienguard of Kasumor and I have a favor to ask of you. Could we talk somewhere less crowded than there?"
"That would be difficult, as I, too, would like a word with dear Paco." Viz sidles up, silently, and rests his hand upon his sword. "I would ask after the nature of your visit, and the safety of two men you took, ten years ago. Two of the guards from the delegation circle around, standing behind Guzman without drawn weapons, but with clear intent.

Turning to Nyllana, he smiles. "I hope you understand; he's all yours after we rescue our men... Though I am intrigued to know what business you had with a man like this?"

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-10, 10:09 AM

Day 3

"WEAPONS?...."
Grïend right "arm" shifted in form, forming a huge crystal spike.
"MY BODY....IS MY WEAPON.....I THANK YOU.....FOR YOUR TIME...."

Grïend left the stand, floating towards the dueling grounds. Everywhere around, he say creatures, made of delicate flesh, sparring and fighting. We would have to be gentle, or their flesh would rupture and Nyllana would be disappointed. Gathering his courage (Yes, he has emotions) he called out:
WARRIORS.....I....GRÏEND....REQUIRE AN OPPONENT....FOR COMBAT...FOR A DUEL....WHO WILL FIGHT ME?....

Day 2

Meanwhile, Nyllana and her other two Ambassadors walked (or in Nyllana's case, glided) towards where they thought the leaders of Raaneka were.
"What are they like, these Raaneki-jin?" Irion asked Nyllana, a bit anxious. This was his first visit to an allied nation.
Nyllana smiled reassuringly. "The Raaneki are a fun-loving folk as you can see. They will welcome us with open arms, if their disposition hasnt changed in the last few years."
Eleljak snickered: "The Raaneki-jin? Change their party-all attitude? I think not, my lady."
Nyllana chuckled, her hair waving in the wind.
"Perhaps, perhaps, there are miracles in the world though. On a more serious note, did you two regulate your imports back home?"
"Yes my lady, the best quality Chikurai squid is being shipped as we speak." Irion said, his pride in his country evident due to his puffed up chest while he spoke.
"Yes, Empress, it's all arranged to your liking. I've already fixed things with Grïend aswell." Eleljak added.
"Very well, good job you two." Nyllana said, her illuminating smile on her face. She wasn't called the Empress of Light in the Hurosha Empire for nothing.

They arrived at the building where the Lady and Lord of Raaneka resided.
Nyllana approached the building, speaking to the guards outside:
"Prowess to you, gentlemen, I am Nyllana, Empress of the Hurosha Empire. I would like to have a word with our hosts, the Lady and Lord of Raaneka, Lomadi and Ujval Devdano. Are they available?"

Day Three
After a few duels, Prince Avam Devdano swaggered his way down from the stage. He considered himself a large man by any standard, but he was less than half as tall as this monolith.

"Hail!" he shouted up at the creature, not sure where its ears were, or how well it could hear. Though he lurched under the power of drink, he hefted a stout javelin. He raised it, aimed for a target 10 meters away, and released. The javelin flew much straighter than one might expect, and the target reeled over backwards upon impact. "Wanna *hic* see who can knock over more of 'em?"

((Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17282615&posted=1#post17282615)... this first throw was just fluff, bee tee dubs.))

Day Two
The Huroshi party arrived at Bandar Harbor Stadium, at the private box of the Lady and Lord of Raaneka. The box offered a commanding view of the harbor and the mock naval battle between Raaneka and Lyradis. "Ay," Lady Lomadi bemoaned as the Raaneki fleet lost of the first pass. "The Lyradissians move so quickly! It must be a trick."

Lord Ujval mused at his wife's competitive spirit as he sipped his wine. The world was pleasantly drifting under the power of last year's vintage of Sarabi Summer. It was crisp and clear, as though a blue sky danced within his mouth. He rose to welcome the Huroshi, and offered them seats on the many cushions around the box. "Empress!" he exclaimed, offering his hand. "We are most honored by your presence at the Games. All Prowess to you!" Turning to Irion and Eleljak, Lady and Lord offered wine and food to everyone "Welcome, one and all! How may we serve you on such a fine day as this?"

Lyra nods seriously. "Not to mention that these two nations were our main defending ones. I certainly do not have the forces to defend my nations, let alone all of ours, at present. That they have fallen silent does not bode well...though...did I not see Chief Bangboom here at the games?" She turned to Lord Ujval. "Qarimos' leadership - Prince Alkili - was growing old and had no heir to pass on to. He had communicated interest in allowing Jacob, the son of his sister and my brother, to take on the throne. However, despite my love of Qarimos, I have a duty as a League member to discuss this with you, especially since it is a neighboring nation of yours. At present, while Qarimos would be a joy to add to the Kingdom of Lyradis, this might be an opportunity to unite our nations a bit more closely. Long have we been attempting to arrange a union of our families in some scale...perhaps Jacob could marry one of your daughters, and they could lead Qarimos as you and your wife do, putting the nation in your hands."

Lord Ujval's brow was furrowed in thought, but Lady Lomadi spoke first. "Yes, Mormaer. I don't believe I've ever heard my sister speak as much as when she told the tale of the Deepdart." She and her husband shuddered. They loved the Razdisi as neighbors and allies, but they did not share the same taste for war. "As for defense, Princess Anguri has made certain that Raaneka is not without protection. Our armies proved themselves in the battle against the Salterri, and we have always considered your security equal to our own."

"Yes," joined Lord Ujval, thinking of the agreement struck by the parents of all in attendance. "You need only ask for our aid in defense, and we shall grant it. As for Qarimos, your offer comes at a good time! Our daughter, Calaki, has spent much time in Qarimos learning the music of their people. The song of the sea is in her heart, and she has often told us of her dreams to live there one day. We must make an introduction, of course, but I am certain she will find Jacob as beautiful and virtuous as yourself, Lady Lyra." The Lord paused. "What's more, my brother Tikta believes he has discovered blood ties between the Raaneki and Qarimos, by delving into our most ancient tales. It would be fitting to join our two nations together!"

Gradually, the conversation returned to the subject of Grmanhil. "It is sad indeed that they have not attended this years' Games. Our family has excellent relations with Chief Orgnar; in fact, we have made heirlooms of some of their gifts." He paused, turning to Lyra. "My lady, when I was young your father regaled me with tales of the history of Lyradis. If I remember, Grmanhil was once a part of your kingdom, is that so? It would seem only fitting that you guide them in government. Raaneka would support you if you were to make a claim."

TheWombatOfDoom

2014-04-10, 10:42 AM

Lord Ujval's brow was furrowed in thought, but Lady Lomadi spoke first. "Yes, Mormaer. I don't believe I've ever heard my sister speak as much as when she told the tale of the Deepdart." She and her husband shuddered. They loved the Razdisi as neighbors and allies, but they did not share the same taste for war. "As for defense, Princess Anguri has made certain that Raaneka is not without protection. Our armies proved themselves in the battle against the Salterri, and we have always considered your security equal to our own."

"Yes," joined Lord Ujval, thinking of the agreement struck by the parents of all in attendance. "You need only ask for our aid in defense, and we shall grant it. As for Qarimos, your offer comes at a good time! Our daughter, Calaki, has spent much time in Qarimos learning the music of their people. The song of the sea is in her heart, and she has often told us of her dreams to live there one day. We must make an introduction, of course, but I am certain she will find Jacob as beautiful and virtuous as yourself, Lady Lyra." The Lord paused. "What's more, my brother Tikta believes he has discovered blood ties between the Raaneki and Qarimos, by delving into our most ancient tales. It would be fitting to join our two nations together!"

Gradually, the conversation returned to the subject of Grmanhil. "It is sad indeed that they have not attended this years' Games. Our family has excellent relations with Chief Orgnar; in fact, we have made heirlooms of some of their gifts." He paused, turning to Lyra. "My lady, when I was young your father regaled me with tales of the history of Lyradis. If I remember, Grmanhil was once a part of your kingdom, is that so? It would seem only fitting that you guide them in government. Raaneka would support you if you were to make a claim."

Lyra nodded. "I know I can count on you both, but our love of war is lacking, and I fear if WE were to incur the attack that Hrthan-Tuor had experienced, we might not have done so well as they. I fear this needs to change, for us to survive. It is not a statement I make with haste, but one I make with regret."

"As for a union of my brother's son and your daughter, I am overjoyed that you agree, and I must admit, family reunions will be evermore the interesting. Qarimos has some ties to my lands as does yours, from when we settled here long ago. To strengthen these ties is an honor. Jacob is an experience captain, and has spent much of his time being raised on ships. Qarimos will suit him. I pray he loves your daughter even more than he loves the sea."

Lyra paused, and shook her head. "Grmanhil was one of the regions we wandered through before meeting the Qarimosi. At the time, there were no peoples that we encountered, and we feared the area too close to our lost lands, and if we settled there, we'd have been pursued. As it is, Grmanhil seems to share some interchange with Selyra, one of my colonies. Not to mention the fact that my ties with the Orcs were getting closer due to the canal, and my mounting expedition to reclaim our homelands." Lyra gave a confused expression to the Lord. "But Grmanhil IS in attendance. I saw the Chief himself, as well as his family, dressed in their finest clothes."

Lyra turned to the Razdisi ruler. "Are you still joining with the Chief's family with your planned marriage? If so, you have more claim than I do."

((slayer's last action was this round, he is going through with the marriage, as well as coming to the games, which allows us to choose the claimant. I know you said ooc that I can have Grmanhil, Silver, but I figured we'd roleplay that a bit.)))

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-10, 10:47 AM

((Drble prst, lulz))

Viz, leader of the Guilderene delegation, takes note of Paco, and decides to follow a discreet way behind him. They haven't drawn swords, but there are many angry looks among the group.

"That would be difficult, as I, too, would like a word with dear Paco." Viz sidles up, silently, and rests his hand upon his sword. "I would ask after the nature of your visit, and the safety of two men you took, ten years ago. Two of the guards from the delegation circle around, standing behind Guzman without drawn weapons, but with clear intent.

Turning to Nyllana, he smiles. "I hope you understand; he's all yours after we rescue our men... Though I am intrigued to know what business you had with a man like this?"

Nearby, a pair of stout Raaneki wearing fierce godana tattoos took notice of the group. A woman, equally fierce, stood between them. They wore only silk breeches and carried no weapons, but it did not look like a wise decision to offend them.

You guys are free to play this however you want, I just wanted to let you know that the nonviolence of the Games is an almost sacred thing for the Raaneki. The Games began as a way for the Raaneki to challenge one another without bloodshed, so any blood that gets spilled at the Games would need a really good reason. :smallsmile:

SamBurke

2014-04-10, 11:21 AM

Nearby, a pair of stout Raaneki wearing fierce godana tattoos took notice of the group. A woman, equally fierce, stood between them. They wore only silk breeches and carried no weapons, but it did not look like a wise decision to offend them.

You guys are free to play this however you want, I just wanted to let you know that the nonviolence of the Games is an almost sacred thing for the Raaneki. The Games began as a way for the Raaneki to challenge one another without bloodshed, so any blood that gets spilled at the Games would need a really good reason. :smallsmile:

Viz holds out his hands, palm down, and nods to the two guards. "There'll be no weapons here, in a place of peace. Humperdink wouldn't like it, anyway... but Paco, we still need that answer. You've taken lives, and we want to make their Visitation."

zabbarot

2014-04-10, 11:22 AM

nearby, a pair of stout Raaneki wearing fierce godana tattoos took notice of the group. A woman, equally fierce, stood between them. They wore only silk breeches and carried no weapons, but it did not look like a wise decision to offend them.

Meanwhile, Tendaji and Genivanan rudaka teams were finally making there way back to the stands after a good bit of celebration. Turns out they had missed half the duel tournament already.

"Honored Monk! How did you and Shvedrishti enjoy the match?"

King Tendaji seemed blissfully unaware of the tension he was walking into. He had clearly had a bit to drink, though not so much as to make a fool of himself.

The mobile site has the most minimal posting interface. So no colored speech. All the tags I'm using are hand typed : P
Edit: back at a real computer. I'll be playing Shvedrishti (who needs a nickname, maybe Shvedri) So really just looking to butt into the conversation here

Silverbit

2014-04-10, 11:32 AM

Lyra nodded. "I know I can count on you both, but our love of war is lacking, and I fear if WE were to incur the attack that Hrthan-Tuor had experienced, we might not have done so well as they. I fear this needs to change, for us to survive. It is not a statement I make with haste, but one I make with regret."

"As for a union of my brother's son and your daughter, I am overjoyed that you agree, and I must admit, family reunions will be evermore the interesting. Qarimos has some ties to my lands as does yours, from when we settled here long ago. To strengthen these ties is an honor. Jacob is an experience captain, and has spent much of his time being raised on ships. Qarimos will suit him. I pray he loves your daughter even more than he loves the sea."

Lyra paused, and shook her head. "Grmanhil was one of the regions we wandered through before meeting the Qarimosi. At the time, there were no peoples that we encountered, and we feared the area too close to our lost lands, and if we settled there, we'd have been pursued. As it is, Grmanhil seems to share some interchange with Selyra, one of my colonies. Not to mention the fact that my ties with the Orcs were getting closer due to the canal, and my mounting expedition to reclaim our homelands." Lyra gave a confused expression to the Lord. "But Grmanhil IS in attendance. I saw the Chief himself, as well as his family, dressed in their finest clothes."

Lyra turned to the Razdisi ruler. "Are you still joining with the Chief's family with your planned marriage? If so, you have more claim than I do."

((slayer's last action was this round, he is going through with the marriage, as well as coming to the games, which allows us to choose the claimant. I know you said ooc that I can have Grmanhil, Silver, but I figured we'd roleplay that a bit.)))

"I am marrying my son Vali into Bangboom's family, but I have no wish to claim their lands. Razdis has enough to deal with already. Those borderlands between us and the Salterri need a firm ruler, lest they fall into chaos and become conquered by that southron schist. Honoured Lyra, you have my blessing if you wish to claim those lands for the good of the north, and the Dawn League."

aspi

2014-04-10, 02:11 PM

Näiyop and Inaun are the ones that Fabula likely wants to talk to. They're having an off-screen conversation with Lord Ujval. As Zap said, feel free approach them there if you'd like to play out the conversation we lined out in the PMs.

Lady Lomadi's eyebrows raised in excitement. "Ah, yes! I have heard Bekya has many admirers." She sipped at her wine. "I can see why. What spirit! What your love customs in Wenyavuk? Do you marry?"

Ania grinned "Our customs in that regard are a bit... complicated. But aren't they for most of us?" She laughed "Although I hear the Raaneki have it easier than most. In Wenyavuk, most of us marry, but the specifics depend on the tribe. Intermarriage between tribes from different Tears is very rare and within the tribes, spouses are often selected by the benefit they bring to the community their marry into. This isn't always the choice that makes the couple the happiest but it ensures that no community is entirely lacking of a certain profession or skill. During winter months, it is imperative that all communities are rather self-sufficient." She took another sip before the went on "But not all Na'nuk decide to marry and some live in changing relationsships. These belong mostly to the traders that transport goods on the Wjaskovai. And of course there are some problems that result from such changes, but space is more limited in Wenyavuk than it is here, warm space especially. So we all know that we have to get along when the winter storms set in. Mystics are a bit of an exception. While they not strictly forbidden to marry, they rarely do as it is believed that it affects their connection to Irfrin."

Ania looked at Lady Lomadi with a hint of affected gravity "And then there's the chieftain of course, an entirely different case from us mere mortals. You see, the chieftain of the Na'nuk is not voted for and it is no hereditary title. Instead, the spouse of the former chieftains eldest child becomes the new chieftain.... or chieftainess. To be considered for marriage to the chieftains child is the highest honor and only awarded to the winner of the Quest of Enlightenment. As such, the title of chieftain is only awarded through marriage. There has only ever been one known account of infidelity by a chieftain in all our history." She smiled knowingly "I doubt it's entirely accurate but you get the idea. If your spouse is the only reason you have power at all, you tend to tread carefully."

She reached over to a bowl of fruit and grabbed a fresh orange and started to peel it. "How about the Raaneki? Isn't jeaulousy a problem for your people? After all, it is in our nature, isn't it?", she asked before she began to eat.

Morph Bark

2014-04-10, 02:49 PM

Viz holds out his hands, palm down, and nods to the two guards. "There'll be no weapons here, in a place of peace. Humperdink wouldn't like it, anyway... but Paco, we still need that answer. You've taken lives, and we want to make their Visitation."

Paco blinked. "I'm sorry sir, I am not completely understanding of all of Guilder's customs, but isn't the Visitation meant for dead men alone?"

Meanwhile, Tendaji and Genivanan rudaka teams were finally making there way back to the stands after a good bit of celebration. Turns out they had missed half the duel tournament already.

"Honored Monk! How did you and Shvedrishti enjoy the match?"

King Tendaji seemed blissfully unaware of the tension he was walking into. He had clearly had a bit to drink, though not so much as to make a fool of himself.

The mobile site has the most minimal posting interface. So no colored speech. All the tags I'm using are hand typed : P
Edit: back at a real computer. I'll be playing Shvedrishti (who needs a nickname, maybe Shvedri) So really just looking to butt into the conversation here

Shaken up by more pleasing company coming near, Paco relaxed a little at the sight of Tendaji. "Prince Tendaji! Quite a bit, I must say." Paco's eyes darted around to find Shvedristi fast. Luckily she was only a few seats away. He breathed easily. "I guess it's a shame I have not the necessary digits to play it myself. How do you fare in Genivana?" He kept one eye on his conversation partner and one on the arena field, where Greta was already picked out another opponent.

(OOC: So, who's it gonna be? Avam or Ironfang? Or both? :smalltongue:)

SamBurke

2014-04-10, 02:55 PM

Paco blinked. "I'm sorry sir, I am not completely understanding of all of Guilder's customs, but isn't the Visitation meant for dead men alone?"

"So then, you say that they are not dead?" He nods, and smiles. "That is very good, because, well... I have some stake in their return. So, where did you hide away the two great minds you kidnapped? Where have you held them all these years?"

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-10, 03:02 PM

Fabula nods thankfully to her gracious hosts, her party dispersing to get settled in.

She signals for Glamora to follow her as she sets of to the Wenyavuk party.

It's certainly possible she'll run into Paco at some time during the festival as well.

WaylanderX

2014-04-10, 03:25 PM

Day Two

Day Two
The Huroshi party arrived at Bandar Harbor Stadium, at the private box of the Lady and Lord of Raaneka. The box offered a commanding view of the harbor and the mock naval battle between Raaneka and Lyradis. "Ay," Lady Lomadi bemoaned as the Raaneki fleet lost of the first pass. "The Lyradissians move so quickly! It must be a trick."

Lord Ujval mused at his wife's competitive spirit as he sipped his wine. The world was pleasantly drifting under the power of last year's vintage of Sarabi Summer. It was crisp and clear, as though a blue sky danced within his mouth. He rose to welcome the Huroshi, and offered them seats on the many cushions around the box. "Empress!" he exclaimed, offering his hand. "We are most honored by your presence at the Games. All Prowess to you!" Turning to Irion and Eleljak, Lady and Lord offered wine and food to everyone "Welcome, one and all! How may we serve you on such a fine day as this?"

Nyllana smiled and accepted some of the offered foods.

"Greetings, Lord and Lady. We come here to discuss country relations, play games and have a great time. As I would like to get the obnoxious stuff out of the way first, I would like to ask if there is anything to strenghten the relations between our lands. And indeed, the Lyradis-jin naval ships are very daring indeed."

Nyllana took some of the offered wine and took a sip. It was good wine, as expected from the Raaneki. She beckoned Eleljak and Irion to sit down and awaited the Lord and Ladies response.

Razkai stands unflinching.
"My people are the Razdissi, and we bear in our veins the blood of Ore elves and dwarves. If dwarves are the dvarg of whom you speak, I can but apologise for the conduct of my countrymen. And wounds can heal; or be patched and repaired with new material, stronger than the old. I look forward to meeting more of your kin, mineraling."

Grïend rumbled with a deep sound.
"A HALF....DVARG......WITH THE ELVES....WITH BLOOD OF ROCK......HHMMMM"
Grïend appeared to be studying Razkai.
"PERHAPS....WE CAN.....GET TO KNOW....WHAT EACH OF US....ARE THINKING........TOMORROW.....FIGHT ME....IN A DUEL.......WE SHALL JUDGE....OUR SPIRITS.....IN FRIENDLY COMBAT........IS THAT OKE WITH YOU......HALF-DVARG?"

Rolls for Combat vs Razkai if he accepts (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17284682&postcount=258)

Day Three

After a few duels, Prince Avam Devdano swaggered his way down from the stage. He considered himself a large man by any standard, but he was less than half as tall as this monolith.

"Hail!" he shouted up at the creature, not sure where its ears were, or how well it could hear. Though he lurched under the power of drink, he hefted a stout javelin. He raised it, aimed for a target 10 meters away, and released. The javelin flew much straighter than one might expect, and the target reeled over backwards upon impact. "Wanna *hic* see who can knock over more of 'em?"

((Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17282615&posted=1#post17282615)... this first throw was just fluff, bee tee dubs.))

After the archery match:
"THIS.....ARCHERY....IS DIFFICULT.....YOUR PROWESS....IS GREAT....."
Grïend saluted the prince and said:
"AFTER THIS.....FIGHT ME....I CHALLENGE YOU....TO A DUEL!...."

Link to the Rolls for a duel, should Zap accept. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17284671&postcount=257)

WaylanderX

2014-04-10, 03:39 PM

Day 3

"So then, you say that they are not dead?" He nods, and smiles. "That is very good, because, well... I have some stake in their return. So, where did you hide away the two great minds you kidnapped? Where have you held them all these years?"

Growing impatient, Nyllana interjected.
"Probably the same place where my scholars are, they mentioned some Guilderese teachers being present aswell in the letters they send to the Academy. Also, there is no sign of them being kidnapped according to those letters. If they failed to send some letters to Guilder, that is entirely their fault. Now if you'll excuse me, I have more important matter to discuss with the honorable monk. Something far more important then two scholars failing to send letters to their home. I only need about half an hour of his time, he will be yours all day afterwards, if you want to. But for now, please excuse him."
She whispered to Paco:
"My father was granted a gift from the late Blazing Avatar himself. He went to discover its secrets, but died before doing so. People at the temple said you could maybe grant some more insight into this matter. This is urgent. So if you would, please lend me your aid."
She beckoned Paco to follow her to one of the corridors, relatively devoid of people.

Morph Bark

2014-04-10, 04:02 PM

"So then, you say that they are not dead?" He nods, and smiles. "That is very good, because, well... I have some stake in their return. So, where did you hide away the two great minds you kidnapped? Where have you held them all these years?"

"They've sailed with me, Greta and Shvedrishti on the ship given to us by Jonas Grumby. He has been our captain for many years, and the Guilderene teachers taught Greta and Shvedrishti well." Paco smiled, almost like a proud father. "Greta actually wanted to inform your Doge that perhaps it would be a good idea to trade your Maian athletes to Raaneka. Surely both of you would benefit greatly from that, especially showcasing their prowess to all at these Games. She was also quite insistent about wanting to meet your Doge for further suggestions in fact. It seems she might have more of a head for gold and adamantine than fire and soul."

Day 3

Growing impatient, Nyllana interjected.
"Probably the same place where my scholars are, they mentioned some Guilderese teachers being present aswell in the letters they send to the Academy. Also, there is no sign of them being kidnapped according to those letters. If they failed to send some letters to Guilder, that is entirely their fault. Now if you'll excuse me, I have more important matter to discuss with the honorable monk. Something far more important then two scholars failing to send letters to their home. I only need about half an hour of his time, he will be yours all day afterwards, if you want to. But for now, please excuse him."
She whispered to Paco:
"My father was granted a gift from the late Blazing Avatar himself. He went to discover its secrets, but died before doing so. People at the temple said you could maybe grant some more insight into this matter. This is urgent. So if you would, please lend me your aid."
She beckoned Paco to follow her to one of the corridors, relatively devoid of people.

Paco bowed before the Empress of Hurosha. "May Fireguard hold strong. How can I be of service?"

Paco followed Nyllana, his brow furrowed. "Another gift? He certainly knew how to be generous... What is it?"

Fabula nods thankfully to her gracious hosts, her party dispersing to get settled in.

She signals for Glamora to follow her as she sets of to the Wenyavuk party.

It's certainly possible she'll run into Paco at some time during the festival as well.

While going into the dark corridors with Nyllana, Paco spots Fabula in the distance and sticks up a hand to wave, just before disappearing between the stands.

Greta
She was having the time of her life in her fights. She had done pretty badly against the giant mineral thing, but then again, he was thrice her size! Maybe four times even! And that was height alone, not even mentioning breadth and how massive it was. She had fought the Regina of the Jeweled Cities to a standstill--and not realized it was Jonas' daughter until afterwards.

More fight rolls! For Ironfang, Avam Devdano and Wombat, if they choose to take up the challenge (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17284713&posted=1#post17284713).

WaylanderX

2014-04-10, 04:18 PM

"They've sailed with me, Greta and Shvedrishti on the ship given to us by Jonas Grumby. He has been our captain for many years, and the Guilderene teachers taught Greta and Shvedrishti well." Paco smiled, almost like a proud father. "Greta actually wanted to inform your Doge that perhaps it would be a good idea to trade your Maian athletes to Raaneka. Surely both of you would benefit greatly from that, especially showcasing their prowess to all at these Games. She was also quite insistent about wanting to meet your Doge for further suggestions in fact. It seems she might have more of a head for gold and adamantine than fire and soul."

Paco bowed before the Empress of Hurosha. "May Fireguard hold strong. How can I be of service?"

Paco followed Nyllana, his brow furrowed. "Another gift? He certainly knew how to be generous... What is it?"

Once in the cover of the shadows, Nyllana turned around, keeping her voice down for anyone who tried to eavesdrop.
"Dear monk Paco, its about this peticular flask."
She took the flask out of her pockets and showed it to Paco.
"It said in his final letter that you might be one of the few who are maybe able to give me more intel on this. He had got it from the Blazing Avatar as a gift for his friendship and Prowess. It is appearently made of Shintioute with a technique that is lost to us, sunken deep away in time. The contents are likewise a mystery. Please, if you know anything about this, tell me. This is my fathers last will, to have this mystery solved."
Traces of tears appeared in the corners of her eyes.

SamBurke

2014-04-10, 04:20 PM

zabbarot

2014-04-10, 04:22 PM

Shaken up by more pleasing company coming near, Paco relaxed a little at the sight of Tendaji. "Prince Tendaji! Quite a bit, I must say." Paco's eyes darted around to find Shvedristi fast. Luckily she was only a few seats away. He breathed easily. "I guess it's a shame I have not the necessary digits to play it myself. How do you fare in Genivana?" He kept one eye on his conversation partner and one on the arena field, where Greta was already picked out another opponent.
*King Tendaji btw. I spent a lot of time playing him while he was still prince so I understand.

"It really is, but don't fear there are many humans in Genivana working on a more widely playable version. Maybe we'll have something by the next games. Maybe even some competition, eh? Tendaji looked up at the others present and finally started to realize that there was a more heated discussion before he showed up. And then they dragged Monk Paco away...

"Well... You said something about the scholars working with Monk Paco? We actually held his ship at port and gave them all the option to head home a few years ago. You may have noticed that nobody went home. They are free men, and they've chosen to help the honoured monk, despite being fully aware of the claims put forth by Monk Adam." Tendaji offered Viz a drink, since he realized he was still holding two. "I'm afraid I haven't caught your name

SamBurke

2014-04-10, 04:29 PM

*King Tendaji btw. I spent a lot of time playing him while he was still prince so I understand.

"It really is, but don't fear there are many humans in Genivana working on a more widely playable version. Maybe we'll have something by the next games. Maybe even some competition, eh? Tendaji looked up at the others present and finally started to realize that there was a more heated discussion before he showed up. And then they dragged Monk Paco away...

"Well... You said something about the scholars working with Monk Paco? We actually held his ship at port and gave them all the option to head home a few years ago. You may have noticed that nobody went home. They are free men, and they've chosen to help the honoured monk, despite being fully aware of the claims put forth by Monk Adam." Tendaji offered Viz a drink, since he realized he was still holding two. "I'm afraid I haven't caught your name

"I'm called Viz, though I have a longer Guilderene name. I'm terribly confused by all this... when did you hold the ship? How long for? Who was on it? Where are they now?"

Silverbit

2014-04-10, 04:42 PM

Day Two
Grïend rumbled with a deep sound.
"A HALF....DVARG......WITH THE ELVES....WITH BLOOD OF ROCK......HHMMMM"
Grïend appeared to be studying Razkai.
"PERHAPS....WE CAN.....GET TO KNOW....WHAT EACH OF US....ARE THINKING........TOMORROW.....FIGHT ME....IN A DUEL.......WE SHALL JUDGE....OUR SPIRITS.....IN FRIENDLY COMBAT........IS THAT OKE WITH YOU......HALF-DVARG?"

Rolls for Combat vs Razkai if he accepts (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17284682&postcount=258)

"Ah, a duel? Of course."
Razkai bows.
'I shall see you on the morrow then, mineraling."
"Razkai you old fool, why did you do that? He looks like he could snap you in half like a piece of rusted iron."

On the morrow:

Old Razkai is limbering up, feeling rather nervous. He is dressed in plain mail armour, forged from Mithril, and bears standard Razdissi armaments of a (blunted) Mithril thrusting sword and a heavy shield.

"Let's do this, mineraling! I'll show you how the blood of the stone fights!"
Razkai slips into an Underfoot warrior stance, ready to dodge or attack in equal measure, then engages his opponent.

The rolls, surprisingly effective. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17285035&postcount=261)

If styles are allowed then I've won, if not, honourable draw.

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-10, 04:42 PM

((STANDING UPDATED. I don't want to retroactively calculate all of the +1s from using Scroll of Prowess styles, so can we not grant those bonuses this time around? I promise we'll do it next time! :smallsmile:))

Lyra nodded. "I know I can count on you both, but our love of war is lacking, and I fear if WE were to incur the attack that Hrthan-Tuor had experienced, we might not have done so well as they. I fear this needs to change, for us to survive. It is not a statement I make with haste, but one I make with regret."

"As for a union of my brother's son and your daughter, I am overjoyed that you agree, and I must admit, family reunions will be evermore the interesting. Qarimos has some ties to my lands as does yours, from when we settled here long ago. To strengthen these ties is an honor. Jacob is an experience captain, and has spent much of his time being raised on ships. Qarimos will suit him. I pray he loves your daughter even more than he loves the sea."

Lyra paused, and shook her head. "Grmanhil was one of the regions we wandered through before meeting the Qarimosi. At the time, there were no peoples that we encountered, and we feared the area too close to our lost lands, and if we settled there, we'd have been pursued. As it is, Grmanhil seems to share some interchange with Selyra, one of my colonies. Not to mention the fact that my ties with the Orcs were getting closer due to the canal, and my mounting expedition to reclaim our homelands." Lyra gave a confused expression to the Lord. "But Grmanhil IS in attendance. I saw the Chief himself, as well as his family, dressed in their finest clothes."

Lyra turned to the Razdisi ruler. "Are you still joining with the Chief's family with your planned marriage? If so, you have more claim than I do."

((slayer's last action was this round, he is going through with the marriage, as well as coming to the games, which allows us to choose the claimant. I know you said ooc that I can have Grmanhil, Silver, but I figured we'd roleplay that a bit.)))

Lord Ujval almost--almost--forced a smile. "Princess Anguri and Prince Krama are poised to mount the Twin Thrones when Lomadi and I abdicate. The future of Raaneka's military might is assured. And speaking of my sister and brother... they tell me your training academy is quite a marvel! They have asked me to inquire about the possibility of training Qarimosi elephants for war?"

Lady and Lord both laughed when the conversation turned to Grmanhil. "Ah, the duties of hosting!" Lomadi said. "We shall have to be certain to seek them out. It has been too long since we've tasted that mead of theirs."

Näiyop and Inaun are the ones that Fabula likely wants to talk to. They're having an off-screen conversation with Lord Ujval. As Zap said, feel free approach them there if you'd like to play out the conversation we lined out in the PMs.

Ania grinned "Our customs in that regard are a bit... complicated. But aren't they for most of us?" She laughed "Although I hear the Raaneki have it easier than most. In Wenyavuk, most of us marry, but the specifics depend on the tribe. Intermarriage between tribes from different Tears is very rare and within the tribes, spouses are often selected by the benefit they bring to the community their marry into. This isn't always the choice that makes the couple the happiest but it ensures that no community is entirely lacking of a certain profession or skill. During winter months, it is imperative that all communities are rather self-sufficient." She took another sip before the went on "But not all Na'nuk decide to marry and some live in changing relationsships. These belong mostly to the traders that transport goods on the Wjaskovai. And of course there are some problems that result from such changes, but space is more limited in Wenyavuk than it is here, warm space especially. So we all know that we have to get along when the winter storms set in. Mystics are a bit of an exception. While they not strictly forbidden to marry, they rarely do as it is believed that it affects their connection to Irfrin."

Ania looked at Lady Lomadi with a hint of affected gravity "And then there's the chieftain of course, an entirely different case from us mere mortals. You see, the chieftain of the Na'nuk is not voted for and it is no hereditary title. Instead, the spouse of the former chieftains eldest child becomes the new chieftain.... or chieftainess. To be considered for marriage to the chieftains child is the highest honor and only awarded to the winner of the Quest of Enlightenment. As such, the title of chieftain is only awarded through marriage. There has only ever been one known account of infidelity by a chieftain in all our history." She smiled knowingly "I doubt it's entirely accurate but you get the idea. If your spouse is the only reason you have power at all, you tend to tread carefully."

She reached over to a bowl of fruit and grabbed a fresh orange and started to peel it. "How about the Raaneki? Isn't jeaulousy a problem for your people? After all, it is in our nature, isn't it?", she asked before she began to eat.

"Marvelous!" Lady Lomadi said. "The cultures of the world never cease to be a wonder. To think, there are places in the world where fellowship is not only desirable, but necessary? Your bonds must be close indeed."

At the mention of their own customs, the Lady of Raaneka leaned in close and shared a conspiratorial grin. "See there," she motioned to Lord Ujval, ogling a gang of beautiful young Raaneki men and women. "My husband does this--and more besides--every day. To tell the truth, there is no word for jealousy in our language. I have often wondered at this. Perhaps, because we share ourselves on our bodies" she said, absently tracing the line of a red tattoo on her forearm, "we have no trouble sharing our bodies themselves?

"You see, those Raaneki who choose to marry are the symbols of fellowship. They love the home life and want to raise children. Those who choose to remain unmarried do not want to be tied down. They embody the freedom of our people, and often travel to far-distant lands as traders and explorers. Where would the Raaneki be without fellowship? Or without freedom? I do not wish to think of it."

She paused to watch a band of children scamper past. "In Raaneka there is no connection between love and possession. We cannot possess something as fickle as love, so we do not try. We love when loving arrives, and by that love we grow closer as a people. You may 'but what of the children of this loving?' Well, we love them also, of course! The children of Free Parents are usually adopted by family members, and are always treated well. In the lands beyond our borders, there are many who are bond of 'family trees'... you can be sure it's more of a 'family thicket' here!"

(OOC: So, who's it gonna be? Avam or Ironfang? Or both? :smalltongue:)

The Wandering Prince stepped forward to duel Greta, but Princess Anguri appeared and stopped his advance. "Brother mine," she said. "This girl gave me something dear to her many years ago. I would give her a gift in kind."

Avam relented, and the Princess turned to face her opponent. "We have never met," she said, readying her sword and buckler, "but I thank you for the candle. Prepare yourself, young warrior. Let us test your mettle."

It was clear that Greta was outmatched as soon as the duel began, but Anguri was uncharacteristically talkative throughout. She pointed out weaknesses in the girl's defense, and offered helpful advice. In the final round, Greta even managed to land a blow across the Princess' back, thought victory went to Anguri. "Good!" she said, laughing and rubbing her shoulder. "Your spirit is strong. Your candle will be the pride of my house."

((Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17284752#post17284752). For the sake of potential awards, Anguri is the only Raaneki participating in the duel. I think this is a little more fitting anyway. :smalltongue:))

Day Two

Nyllana smiled and accepted some of the offered foods.

"Greetings, Lord and Lady. We come here to discuss country relations, play games and have a great time. As I would like to get the obnoxious stuff out of the way first, I would like to ask if there is anything to strenghten the relations between our lands. And indeed, the Lyradis-jin naval ships are very daring indeed."

Nyllana took some of the offered wine and took a sip. It was good wine, as expected from the Raaneki. She beckoned Eleljak and Irion to sit down and awaited the Lord and Ladies response.

Lady and Lord were delighted. "We shall do our part to provide all that you seek!" they said in unison. Lady Lomadi considered the fleet in the harbor below. The Lyradissians were certainly capable on the water. "You have noticed the Lyradissian fleet? Perhaps you would like ships of your own? We would be happy to arrange trade with our neighbors in Qarimos." It wasn't exactly the truth, since Qarimos would soon enter the realm of Raaneka's protection, but it was a minor detail that needed no explanation. "Of course, we have a wealth of stone to trade as well." They indicated the deep blue sandstone that made up the entirety of the stadium, and the countless golden sandstone seats as well. "The Painted Coast has stone in every color one could imagine."

"As for our desires, we are always seeking ingredients to elevate our Heartwine. I don't suppose you have any sublime materials we might use?"

Day Three

After the archery match:
"THIS.....ARCHERY....IS DIFFICULT.....YOUR PROWESS....IS GREAT....."
Grïend saluted the prince and said:
"AFTER THIS.....FIGHT ME....I CHALLENGE YOU....TO A DUEL!...."

Link to the Rolls for a duel, should Zap accept. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17284671&postcount=257)

The Wandering Prince laughed and tried to slap the Menhirin on the back, but only managed something approximating a leg. "Good..." he said, squinting-drunk. "Let me prepare." He turned on his heels, lost his balance, and hit the earth with a thunderous clap. Rolling over, he tried to laugh at his own folly before losing his stomach--mostly wine--all over the field. This was followed by a loud burp, then the sound of pleasant snoring.

A smaller Raaneki, a woman with dark purple skin and wispy white godana, approached the Prince. she gave him half a glance, then glued her eyes to the huge creature before her. Her eyes were alight with excitement and promise. "My brother has graced the field with our spirit. He should not fight again. I am Princess Anguri Adite... fight me!"

((First: I've only used him a couple times, but Prince Avam might be my favorite Raaneki. :smalltongue:

Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17284752#post17284752). For the sake of potential awards (unlikely, it seems!), Anguri is the only Raaneki participating in the duel. You win this one, so feel free to fluff to your heart's content. Character notes: Anguri is a fierce b****.))

zabbarot

2014-04-10, 04:43 PM

"I'm called Viz, though I have a longer Guilderene name. I'm terribly confused by all this... when did you hold the ship? How long for? Who was on it? Where are they now?"

"For a year after we were told that the Honourable Monk was a dangerous heretic. The Radurjic Church, and myself, felt we should investigate this claim, and we've come to the conclusion that while he might be a heretic to the Blazing Temple he is not breaking any of our laws and does not seek to harm anyone. Any further problems are between him and his god. The ship was docked in Dvipabedapura, but they are free to travel as they please. The scholars aboard are all aware of the charges levied against the Honourable Monk by the blazing temple. I could not name them for you, but several are Genivanan as well."

Morph Bark

2014-04-10, 05:42 PM

Paco/Nyllana

*King Tendaji btw. I spent a lot of time playing him while he was still prince so I understand.

"It really is, but don't fear there are many humans in Genivana working on a more widely playable version. Maybe we'll have something by the next games. Maybe even some competition, eh? Tendaji looked up at the others present and finally started to realize that there was a more heated discussion before he showed up. And then they dragged Monk Paco away...

*Figured as much, of course. After so long, it felt right to call him Prince still somehow! Hurr*

"That'd be something! I look forward to it!"

Once in the cover of the shadows, Nyllana turned around, keeping her voice down for anyone who tried to eavesdrop.
"Dear monk Paco, its about this peticular flask."
She took the flask out of her pockets and showed it to Paco.
"It said in his final letter that you might be one of the few who are maybe able to give me more intel on this. He had got it from the Blazing Avatar as a gift for his friendship and Prowess. It is appearently made of Shintioute with a technique that is lost to us, sunken deep away in time. The contents are likewise a mystery. Please, if you know anything about this, tell me. This is my fathers last will, to have this mystery solved."
Traces of tears appeared in the corners of her eyes.

Paco opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again and appeared to think. "Are you sure that's what the Blazing Avatar said?" He asked hesitantly. "I am but a humble monk and the bottle is made of Shintouite as you say, and you know how that..." He saw her tears welling up. "Oh nonono! Don't do that, my Empress. That's not a face one of your stature should make." He looked away, biting his lips in thought, then turned back to her and smiled suddenly. "No, that's not a face any young woman should make, indeed. I know not what I can do for certain, but..." He trailed off, lost in thought again.

Greta/Avam

The Wandering Prince stepped forward to duel Greta, but Princess Anguri appeared and stopped his advance. "Brother mine," she said. "This girl gave me something dear to her many years ago. I would give her a gift in kind."

Avam relented, and the Princess turned to face her opponent. "We have never met," she said, readying her sword and buckler, "but I thank you for the candle. Prepare yourself, young warrior. Let us test your mettle."

It was clear that Greta was outmatched as soon as the duel began, but Anguri was uncharacteristically talkative throughout. She pointed out weaknesses in the girl's defense, and offered helpful advice. In the final round, Greta even managed to land a blow across the Princess' back, thought victory went to Anguri. "Good!" she said, laughing and rubbing her shoulder. "Your spirit is strong. Your candle will be the pride of my house."

Greta was confused that the man would suddenly step aside for this woman in his stead, but her words were all the more puzzling. Nevermind that though, she got herself some exercise! She fought with passion, but took a few missteps in the beginning of the fight, allowing Anguri to gain the upper hand with superior precision. When she finally got her, it was too late--by points she had already lost. She grinned at her. "Yo speak in riddles, Raan-lady. Hope yor tongue will serve yo juszt as well asz yor szword doesz."

Paco/Fabula (Later)
When Paco had been released from the tight grip of the fey woman half an hour later he sought out Fabula. He found her wandering around, as if she were looking for someone. Him? Or another of her fellow rulers? He belonged only to one of those categories--occupying one of them all by himself--and decided the 50-50 made it a certainty if you rounded up. He jumped into a bit of a jog and slowed down when he neared her, coming to walk beside her. "I greet you, High Priestess Fabula." He looked straight ahead, but bore a smile on his face, partly obscured by his moustache--which had some Raaneki skindye on it for some reason.

"I received your letter, High Priestess," he murmured formally. "Are you well? It was... reason for concern."

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-10, 06:18 PM

SamBurke

2014-04-10, 10:11 PM

"For a year after we were told that the Honourable Monk was a dangerous heretic. The Radurjic Church, and myself, felt we should investigate this claim, and we've come to the conclusion that while he might be a heretic to the Blazing Temple he is not breaking any of our laws and does not seek to harm anyone. Any further problems are between him and his god. The ship was docked in Dvipabedapura, but they are free to travel as they please. The scholars aboard are all aware of the charges levied against the Honourable Monk by the blazing temple. I could not name them for you, but several are Genivanan as well."
"Well, quite interesting. In that case, I think a visit to see them is most in order... Humperdink will be delighted, I believe."

Paco/Nyllana
Paco/Fabula (Later)
When Paco had been released from the tight grip of the fey woman half an hour later he sought out Fabula. He found her wandering around, as if she were looking for someone. Him? Or another of her fellow rulers? He belonged only to one of those categories--occupying one of them all by himself--and decided the 50-50 made it a certainty if you rounded up. He jumped into a bit of a jog and slowed down when he neared her, coming to walk beside her. "I greet you, High Priestess Fabula." He looked straight ahead, but bore a smile on his face, partly obscured by his moustache--which had some Raaneki skindye on it for some reason.

Viz comes, standing a respectful distance away, with a smile on his face and no guards nearby. He awaits the finishing of Paco's conversation.

Morph Bark

2014-04-11, 04:00 AM

With Paco

Fabula looks a little less worried as she lays her eyes on Paco. She does however, gain a look of distaste as she notices the skindye smudged on his mustache. He may notice how elegantly she has grown from young adulthood into womanhood.
"It certainly has been some time, my friend."
Behind her, hiding in the expanse of her garments, is a young girl.

"I apologize for the urgency of my letter, but I trust you know, I would not have written in such a way if I was not serious. I have had a dream."
The young girl peeks out from behind the High Priestess to get a good look at the monk.

"Too long," Paco noted with a smile, which wavered a moment at the look he received. "You've grown well; beautiful." The child behind her he noticed a bit later, and he raised a hand in greeting. "Hello there."

Paco's face turned from pleased to concerned. "That must have been a pretty bad dream then. What has you so worried?"

WaylanderX

2014-04-11, 04:28 AM

Paco opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again and appeared to think. "Are you sure that's what the Blazing Avatar said?" He asked hesitantly. "I am but a humble monk and the bottle is made of Shintouite as you say, and you know how that..." He saw her tears welling up. "Oh nonono! Don't do that, my Empress. That's not a face one of your stature should make." He looked away, biting his lips in thought, then turned back to her and smiled suddenly. "No, that's not a face any young woman should make, indeed. I know not what I can do for certain, but..." He trailed off, lost in thought again.

Nyllana only then seemed to noticed the tears and wiped them off quickly with a hankerchief.
"You are right, monk Paco. My Prowess failed me for a second there. My emotions got the better of me. I apologise."
Her face straightened again and she smiled.
"I am sure though that my father had a good reason to name you though, dear monk. He said you were versed in a variety of ancient artifacts and other old knowledge. Somebody called Pyoka told him that appearently."
She looked Paco in the eyes, her gaze once more unwavering.
"Just look into the deepest regions of your knowledge, dear monk. I am sure the answer is there somewhere or at least a hint to it."
Nyllana's eyes widened and she said.
"I forgot, according to his letter, the Blazing Avatar said the greatest treasure of all lied within. My father thought it to be a test of Prowess, one that ultimately he couldn't solve himself."

Griend vs Razkai

The fight consisted of the two fighter bashing against each others defenses, imbued with the will of their respective people. Neither was willing to give up ground. However, Grïend's brute force overcame the dwarf's defenses eventually, knocking him back over 4 meters and ending the fight.
After the fight, which lasted longer than one would except, Grïend rumbled satified.
"YOUR PROWESS......BETRAYS YOUR.....FEELINGS.........THE MENHÎRIN....WILL ACCEPT YOUR PEOPLE.....AS POTENENTIAL....ALLIES..."
He turned around and moved away.
"MAY YOUR PROWESS...GUIDE YOU....MASTER DWARF...."

Griend vs the Prince

Grïend opponent was razor-fast, not unlike Greta, but was faster. She crawled all over his body and he just couldnt hit her. Frustrated he thought of a plan. He waited until his opponent climbed his body once more, showering crushing blows all over his back and head. When he was sure, he let himself fall to the ground, taking his opponent with him and knocking all air out of her lungs. His opponent tried to recover, but before she could stand up, he held her to the ground with a crushing grip.
"THIS FIGHT...IS OVER.......YOU ARE VERY....FAST.....FLESHLING.......IT WAS A GOOD....FIGHT...."
He then released her and helped her up, making an awkward but impressive bow afterwards.

Nyllana and Ambassadors at the Lord and Lady

"We have some ingredients, yes. Kasumor is rich in strange substances. My proposition is to trade those against shipments of Raaneki stone. Can you find yourself in that, Lady, Lord?"

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-11, 05:26 AM

"Too long," Paco noted with a smile, which wavered a moment at the look he received. "You've grown well; beautiful." The child behind her he noticed a bit later, and he raised a hand in greeting. "Hello there."

Paco's face turned from pleased to concerned. "That must have been a pretty bad dream then. What has you so worried?"

Fabula motions for the girl to step out where Paco can see her and she does so.
"This is Glamora."

"We've found the next High Priestess. Worried doesn't even describe it.

I saw the world end Paco, engulfed in flames. I saw you die, killed my a monk like yourself, one with illuminated skin."

Morph Bark

2014-04-11, 07:16 AM

Nyllana only then seemed to noticed the tears and wiped them off quickly with a hankerchief.
"You are right, monk Paco. My Prowess failed me for a second there. My emotions got the better of me. I apologise."
Her face straightened again and she smiled.
"I am sure though that my father had a good reason to name you though, dear monk. He said you were versed in a variety of ancient artifacts and other old knowledge. Somebody called Pyoka told him that appearently."
She looked Paco in the eyes, her gaze once more unwavering.
"Just look into the deepest regions of your knowledge, dear monk. I am sure the answer is there somewhere or at least a hint to it."
Nyllana's eyes widened and she said.
"I forgot, according to his letter, the Blazing Avatar said the greatest treasure of all lied within. My father thought it to be a test of Prowess, one that ultimately he couldn't solve himself."

"Pyoka?" Paco thought for a moment and then let out an exasperated sigh. "Prajvalani Yose." He nodded. That explained a lot.

"My Empress, I can say I know not for certain what it holds. The Blazing Temple has held on to treasures for over a thousand years. The greatest treasure might indeed be in it or it may contain naught but air, and that the only treasure it holds is the journey taken to open it, in the hopes that that journey teaches greater wisdoms and brings more treasures than a bottle could ever hold. It could be something simple or something of the highest magical power, like the source of a new river waiting to flow or the essence of Fire and Life itself. Such stories I've heard before."

Morph Bark

2014-04-11, 07:23 AM

(Quoting in seperate posts so that the quoters who quote me don't quote each other and reveal their secrets to one another by accident woo!)

Fabula motions for the girl to step out where Paco can see her and she does so.
"This is Glamora."

"We've found the next High Priestess. Worried doesn't even describe it.

I saw the world end Paco, engulfed in flames. I saw you die, killed my a monk like yourself, one with illuminated skin."

Paco nodded kindly. "Hello Glamora." He glanced at Fabula. "How old is she now? She can't be older than five at most."

"The next High Priestess?" Paco paled. "Are you... are you dying? This dream of yours..." He heard it be described and shook his head. "That won't happen. I will not allow it. You need not worry, Fabula, we'll ensure that that doesn't happen."

He pointed at the arena, and then at the stands further away near the Genivanan ambassadors. "Those are my two students. Greta may be over-eager, but I have faith in her, like the Blazing Avatar did before she was even born." He seemed sad for a bit, and he was, for Greta hadn't yet shown signs she actually could be proven to be the Blazing Avatar reborn. "And Shvedrishti! She is the most tender-souled girl I've ever met. She... she does things. Wonderful things." He shook his head. As well as he seemed to handle young girls, they still puzzled him greatly. He wished Jonas was with him. He'd always known what to do. Why couldn't he be with them now?

Tychris1

2014-04-11, 07:28 AM

After the fight:
"IT APPEARS.....YOU'RE MORE....MONSTROUS...THEN ME.....WELL FOUGHT.....IRONLING....."
Grïend forms a hand out of his right arm and stretches it in friendship towards Ironfang.

Ironfang looks at the outstretched mineral hand, barely contained contempt seething through his teeth. His claw grinds into a fist, pieces of metal sliding together to form a practical hammer for a limb. Raising his hand, he slapped the outstretched arm away from him in indignation.

"I. AM. NOT. A MONSTER!"

Clenching his halberd, he turned away from the mass of crystals and stormed off, wishing to beat the ever living hell out of anything he could get his hands on. However, the Duke didn't stop, and he continued his marching until he reached the sidelines. Brooding in the shade, he began to mull over why he even came here.

"My Duke?"

Ironfang raised his head, turning it to spot the Stormvermin approaching him carefully, a black bottle held in his hand.

"You told me to bring this back to you in a day or two."

Staring at the bottle, the Duke began to think long and hard. Slowly, he released his prosthetic grip, and reached out to take the bottle.

"Thank you...... You're dismissed."

Bowing, the Stormvermin retreated out of Ironfangs vision, and left the Duke to brood with his bottle. Snarling, he continued to wallow in his hate, and began to think more and more on what exactly WAS he doing here.

"Wasting my time in some vain hope I can cover up for my father......Well, screw it."

Raising his iron claw, he cut a gash into his left arm and watched as blood poured out of it. Popping open the bottle, Ironfang began to rapidly down it, taking swig after swig, only stopping to lick and suck his wounds. When all was said and done, Ironfang dropped the bottle onto the ground and began to stumble out onto the battlefield. Scanning the battlefield, he swayed haphazardly from left to right, growing more irritable and less coordinated with each passing second. Spotting Greta, he stretched his arms out wide as if to indicate "COME AT ME BRO!" and called out to her.

"Cohm oohn, lesht feight, yooo and me."

Ironfang loses in the last 2/3rds of the combat. Drunken brawler style is not his forte it seems. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17288155&postcount=264)

Bekya, who had been watching the performance from the crowd had to suppress an involuntary chuckle as the duke began to sing. This display was so grotesque it was almost amusing and definitely not what she had expected. She flinched as the duke collapsed but regained her composition quickly. She though for a while, then pulled out a small piece of parchment together with a pen of charcoal and wrote a single sentence on it. She walked up to one of the Stormvermin and bravely looked him directly in the eye. "Please give this to your Lord when he wakes up. Tell him to come and find me when he has figured out the answer... or is ready to give up." Without saying another word or even mentioning who she was, she turned around and left.

(Just decided to roll this into a new post)

Shaking his head, Ironfang groaned as he woke up. His guards had dragged him off to a more secluded location, sticking the Duke under some shade so as to not awake to painful light. They also seemed to drag his guitar with him, though why they would do so is beyond his understanding. Looking around, the Duke began to slowly pick himself up.

Noticing his grunts, a Stormvermin positioned nearby walked forward to assist the Duke in rising, but was rather casually disregarded as Ironfang helped himself up. Curtly nodding his head, the Stormvermin handed Ironfang the note given to him from before, and explained the situation.

"........Is this some kind of a joke?.... Show me to this person so I can repay her properly."

He growled, crumpling the piece of paper. Head pounding, the Duke trudged forward with his bodyguard in pursuit of Bekya.

lt_murgen

2014-04-11, 07:52 AM

The Cargita. The entry for the Cargita was a Quill woman named Cascade “Casca” Pitch. Lithe and long limbed, she qas quite strong for he svelte frame. Might be important if the Jeweled Cities Continue to win.

Ooc: I didn’t add in the +1 for having a fighting style entry either, so the results would be the same. If you want to write up the details of the match, feel free. For the tie, I suggest something along the lines of the following:
For the first two passes, the two women seemed evenly matched. Amber took one, and Greta the other. But by the third pass, something was clearly bothering the Regina of the Jeweled Cities. She eyed Greta carefully, even after the official signaled for the round to start. She did a couple of quick feints, watching the woman’s responses carefully. Her moments confirmed something in Amber, and it enraged her. Snarling, she charged, slipping around the woman’s guard and pinning her weapon arm with one of her own. Amber’s hauled hard on the arm, causing the woman’s head to whip back. In a flash, Amber’s hand was on Greta’s throat
“Where is my Father!” She yelled. “Tell me!”

Ranneka and the AQUA nations agree to ongoing trade of Raanekan stone for kelp-olive oil.
Raaneka and the AQUA nations agree to ongoing exchange of noble and council youths on a rotating 3 year basis to further ties between their nations.

At some point during the 5 days, the entouorage of AQUA will suggest an on-going trade of their iron for wood from Tar. IF not, then they suggest tropical fruit from the Jeweled Cities as an alternative.

At some point during these 5 days, the entourage of AQUA will suggest an on-going trade of either iron or vegetables for meat from the region of Tar.
Also, if you want to write up Amber versus Ironfang, go ahead. I’ve got a good write up of her fighting sytles in Scrolls of Prowess. Or I can do it, if you give me some general ideas how he would fight.

During this event, the three hash out their agreement.
Guilder commits to an ongoing donation of Inventors [resource] to the effort, to be cancelled once the project is over.
The Hurosha Empire will commit to an ongoing donation of Zagrim experts, to be canceled once the project is over.
The AQUA nations will commit to an ongoing donation of navigation and ship building experts, to be cancelled once the project is over.
The AQUA nations will provide secure docking facilities in the Emerald City in Woodwind, as well as secure transport and private facilities within the Tangarotha archipelago for the effort.
Every 5 years, the research efforts will aleternate between the Nautical Academy in the Jeweled Cities and the Academy of Culture and Prowess at Earthhome.
The results of any and all research and development will be shared equally between the three nations.
Additionally, the AQUA nations and the Hurosha Empire will establish ongoing exchange between their scholars on historical and cultural ties amongst the Quill, the Islanders, and the Cloudiz.

aspi

2014-04-11, 08:04 AM

Shaking his head, Ironfang groaned as he woke up. His guards had dragged him off to a more secluded location, sticking the Duke under some shade so as to not awake to painful light. They also seemed to drag his guitar with him, though why they would do so is beyond his understanding. Looking around, the Duke began to slowly pick himself up.

Noticing his grunts, a Stormvermin positioned nearby walked forward to assist the Duke in rising, but was rather casually disregarded as Ironfang helped himself up. Curtly nodding his head, the Stormvermin handed Ironfang the note given to him from before, and explained the situation.

"........Is this some kind of a joke?.... Show me to this person so I can repay her properly."

He growled, crumpling the piece of paper. Head pounding, the Duke trudged forward with his bodyguard in pursuit of Bekya.
She hadn't made any attempt of making it easier for them, but finding a Na'nuk in Raaneka wasn't that much of a challenge. The Duke and his guard found Bekya at the harbor, sitting on a parapet and gazing out over the bay, a view most Na'nuk seemed to never get tired of. She turned as the footsteps approached and jumped down from where she had been sitting. She rested her hands on the stone of the parapet as they threatened to start shaking. She wondered if this had been one of her smarter ideas. Probably not. She looked at the Duke more bravely than she felt inside as the armored Sympol approached and smiled. "That was fast" she stated. "Well?"

Silverbit

2014-04-11, 08:15 AM

At some point during the 5 days, the entouorage of AQUA will suggest an on-going trade of their iron for wood from Tar. IF not, then they suggest tropical fruit from the Jeweled Cities as an alternative.

Yep, looks fine to me. Wood for iron. I'll write it in my actions now.

Morph Bark

2014-04-11, 08:57 AM

Ironfang
Greta rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17284713&posted=1#post17284713)

For most of the fight, Greta and Ironfang seemed to be very closely matched. It roused Greta's blood and she couldn't wipe the stupid grin off her face throughout the battle. The Sympol doctors who had been sent to the ship had been okay warriors, as any Sympol was at the very least, but this was something else! She struck the bottom of the sickle across the shield, a flintstone embedded there setting the oil it had been drenched in alight, right before she charged into the metal-encased Sympol duke.

The fight was hers. "Yo're definitely something else, yo. What's yor name, Vermin Knight?"

Amber

The Cargita. The entry for the Cargita was a Quill woman named Cascade “Casca” Pitch. Lithe and long limbed, she qas quite strong for he svelte frame. Might be important if the Jeweled Cities Continue to win.

Ooc: I didn’t add in the +1 for having a fighting style entry either, so the results would be the same. If you want to write up the details of the match, feel free. For the tie, I suggest something along the lines of the following:
For the first two passes, the two women seemed evenly matched. Amber took one, and Greta the other. But by the third pass, something was clearly bothering the Regina of the Jeweled Cities. She eyed Greta carefully, even after the official signaled for the round to start. She did a couple of quick feints, watching the woman’s responses carefully. Her moments confirmed something in Amber, and it enraged her. Snarling, she charged, slipping around the woman’s guard and pinning her weapon arm with one of her own. Amber’s hauled hard on the arm, causing the woman’s head to whip back. In a flash, Amber’s hand was on Greta’s throat
“Where is my Father!” She yelled. “Tell me!”

Greta took a gash on her sickle-arm, but blocked the second passing strike with her shield and struck true in retaliation. Something was off, she fought not with passion, but... something else. "Yor fire looks tainted, lady."

"Father? Don't come at me for yor family trobbles." She looked over Amber as she gripped the hand at her throat, digging her nails into the woman's arm. Greta grit her teeth. "Yo're islander, are yo? Is dhisz about Jonasz?" She kicked out at Amber's abdomen to get away of her grip.

Tychris1

2014-04-11, 09:31 AM

She hadn't made any attempt of making it easier for them, but finding a Na'nuk in Raaneka wasn't that much of a challenge. The Duke and his guard found Bekya at the harbor, sitting on a parapet and gazing out over the bay, a view most Na'nuk seemed to never get tired of. She turned as the footsteps approached and jumped down from where she had been sitting. She rested her hands on the stone of the parapet as they threatened to start shaking. She wondered if this had been one of her smarter ideas. Probably not. She looked at the Duke more bravely than she felt inside as the armored Sympol approached and smiled. "That was fast" she stated. "Well?"

Staring at the Na'nuk, Ironfang waved for his guard to stay back slightly. Rustling his Iron Vermin suit, the still buzzed Duke spat out his answer.

"They both make terrible messes and orphans."

Vegetables for meat sounds good to me. Feel free to write for Ironfang, he fights in a cold and calculated manner, slowly beating someone down and intimidating them, and using his Iron Arm frequently.

Currently you are second place in the mass melee and I'd like to challenge Angi as well to a duel. Ironfang is here to improve relations with the outside world, but he's also here because he's a depressed and bitter sack of **** who, unlike his father doesn't want a harem, and thus needs a partner. He's not exactly enthusiastic about the, but Angi has made a good impression so far. Would you be opposed to one of Ironfang's advisors trying to wrangle her in?

zabbarot

2014-04-11, 09:31 AM

"Well, quite interesting. In that case, I think a visit to see them is most in order... Humperdink will be delighted, I believe."

"It's quite likely that all you needed to do was ask," Tendaji smiled and chuckled to himself. "Give my regards to Humperdink. It has been sometime since I've seen him. Hopefully he and his family are doing well. If you don't mind, I'm going to have a seat and enjoy the rest of the spectacle. You're free to join me if you wish, but don't feel obligated. With that Tendaji went to find a seat with the rest of the Genivanans hooting and hollering at the duels.

aspi

2014-04-11, 10:14 AM

Staring at the Na'nuk, Ironfang waved for his guard to stay back slightly. Rustling his Iron Vermin suit, the still buzzed Duke spat out his answer.

"They both make terrible messes and orphans."
Bekya, inwardly prepraded for the worst, had to laugh at the Duke's dry response "That... works. I think." She grinned as a picture formed in her mind - probably of the mess, not the orphans. "I would have went with they both burn horribly on the way down or maybe first hand experience is likely to make you puke. But I like yours. It's... a little gloomy but interesting. Speaking of gloomy..." she took a step towards the Duke "Is the a particular reason you're trying to depress everyone within sight instead of enjoying the games? Don't get me wrong, you're doing great job if that's what you are aiming for. But why? Even the biggest killjoy I've ever met in my life is having fun... although that may be more closely related to Lady Lomadi and less to the games if we're being honest."

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-11, 10:32 AM

(Quoting in seperate posts so that the quoters who quote me don't quote each other and reveal their secrets to one another by accident woo!)

Paco nodded kindly. "Hello Glamora." He glanced at Fabula. "How old is she now? She can't be older than five at most."

"The next High Priestess?" Paco paled. "Are you... are you dying? This dream of yours..." He heard it be described and shook his head. "That won't happen. I will not allow it. You need not worry, Fabula, we'll ensure that that doesn't happen."

He pointed at the arena, and then at the stands further away near the Genivanan ambassadors. "Those are my two students. Greta may be over-eager, but I have faith in her, like the Blazing Avatar did before she was even born." He seemed sad for a bit, and he was, for Greta hadn't yet shown signs she actually could be proven to be the Blazing Avatar reborn. "And Shvedrishti! She is the most tender-souled girl I've ever met. She... she does things. Wonderful things." He shook his head. As well as he seemed to handle young girls, they still puzzled him greatly. He wished Jonas was with him. He'd always known what to do. Why couldn't he be with them now?

"She's four."
Fabula replies with a warm smile.
"And quite a smart girl at that. I couldn't ask for a better child if I had born her myself."
She shakes her head.
"I don't know. I could be dead tomorrow, or it could be twenty years from now, but she was born, and the signs cannot be ignored. I'm readying her as I can."
She smiles again at his optimism.
"I wish your word was enough, but we need a plan. Yphine's truth spreads yet, and my allies grow. I think much will come down to the actions of those who follow the Lord of Fire."

"I never pictured you as the fatherly type, Paco."

Tychris1

2014-04-11, 10:47 AM

Bekya, inwardly prepraded for the worst, had to laugh at the Duke's dry response "That... works. I think." She grinned as a picture formed in her mind - probably of the mess, not the orphans. "I would have went with they both burn horribly on the way down or maybe first hand experience is likely to make you puke. But I like yours. It's... a little gloomy but interesting. Speaking of gloomy..." she took a step towards the Duke "Is the a particular reason you're trying to depress everyone within sight instead of enjoying the games? Don't get me wrong, you're doing great job if that's what you are aiming for. But why? Even the biggest killjoy I've ever met in my life is having fun... although that may be more closely related to Lady Lomadi and less to the games if we're being honest."

Ironfang tilted his head, slightly taken aback by the question he was presented with. It wasn't everyday that a Duke was openly questioned like that. Most of the time the Duke just did whatever he wanted and no one batted an eye (A fact that Ironfang learned at a young age when Bloodfang up and decided to walk through the castle in his birthday outfit for a day). He flicked his tongue about in his mouth, trying to properly assess what to do. Yet the prospect of getting questioned began to grind on his mind, until finally it worked it's way to the forefront of his thoughts.

"Oh, I don't know, perhaps it's because I was thrown out of a window and ignited by my father,"

He hissed the words out like envenomed daggers.

"Maybe it's because I was dragged away from my home, a place that I doesn't even feel like home anymore, and was shunted off down here on some stupid idea,"

His body began to tense up, his armor jingling as he began to bristle.

"Or maybe it's because I had a crown forced upon me, purely due to my entire family being butchered. A crown I don't want. My entire body being a burnt, lacerated mess. Waking up everyday in my bed, quaking in agony, shaking in a cold sweat that never goes away."

Hitting his boiling point, he thrusted his iron arm forward, putting it on full display for Bekya to look at.

"MAYBE IT'S BECAUSE I LOST MY ARM."

Ironfang
Greta rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17284713&posted=1#post17284713)

For most of the fight, Greta and Ironfang seemed to be very closely matched. It roused Greta's blood and she couldn't wipe the stupid grin off her face throughout the battle. The Sympol doctors who had been sent to the ship had been okay warriors, as any Sympol was at the very least, but this was something else! She struck the bottom of the sickle across the shield, a flintstone embedded there setting the oil it had been drenched in alight, right before she charged into the metal-encased Sympol duke.

The fight was hers. "Yo're definitely something else, yo. What's yor name, Vermin Knight?"

Stumbling backwards from the blow, Ironfang was rather impressed by the display of Sympol fighting styles. His hand was still bloodied, his heart was pounding, and in the heat of the moment he began to smear his face with blood, wetting his helmet with his crimson life force. Taking several deep breathes in, Duke Ironfang tried to remember his identity.

"My name's..... My name's..... who AM I?....."

He began to scratch the bottom of his chin, nearly falling to the ground as he lost his balance. Steadying himself, a flash of brilliance hit him, and gears started turning in his head.

"I....... Ir..... Iron?......... IronRat! Me name's Duck IronRat!..... No weight.... That's not right.... Duke! Duke Ironfang!"

Stumbling forward to Greta, Ironfang held his prosthetic arm over her shoulder and used her as a balance. Head bobbing about, he began to whisper to her.

"You know what? I like yooo.... We're gonna be... grate freends!"

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-11, 10:48 AM

((STANDINGS UPDATED.))

Greta/Avam

Greta was confused that the man would suddenly step aside for this woman in his stead, but her words were all the more puzzling. Nevermind that though, she got herself some exercise! She fought with passion, but took a few missteps in the beginning of the fight, allowing Anguri to gain the upper hand with superior precision. When she finally got her, it was too late--by points she had already lost. She grinned at her. "Yo speak in riddles, Raan-lady. Hope yor tongue will serve yo juszt as well asz yor szword doesz."

The Princess congratulated Greta on a well-fought duel. "Seri could tell you the only thing my tongue is good for. Go with glory, girl! Your spirit burns bright indeed."

Later, when Greta found a moment of peace, the Princess arrived with the True Flame in hand. "Does this spark a memory, Greta Cardion Divinorum? Or do I mistake you for someone else?"

The Cargita. The entry for the Cargita was a Quill woman named Cascade “Casca” Pitch. Lithe and long limbed, she qas quite strong for he svelte frame. Might be important if the Jeweled Cities Continue to win.

Ranneka and the AQUA nations agree to ongoing trade of Raanekan stone for kelp-olive oil.
Raaneka and the AQUA nations agree to ongoing exchange of noble and council youths on a rotating 3 year basis to further ties between their nations.

The Raaneki Games were held so infrequently that a competitor could only hope to compete twice at best. This was Princess Anguri's second Games, and she was livid that she wouldn't be crowned Champion of the Caragita twice in a row. The only way she was able to mask her rage was that her cousins in AQUA would take the crown. "Casca!" she called after the ceremonies. "Champions belong together." Her husband Krama and lover Seri stood just behind with naked ambition. "Find us in the taverns tonight, if you dare!"

Works for me! I've got a similar action in my round post.

Anguri, Krama, and Seri's proposition is exactly what you're imagining. Not sure if Casca swings that way, but I guess we'll find out!

Currently you are second place in the mass melee and I'd like to challenge Angi as well to a duel. Ironfang is here to improve relations with the outside world, but he's also here because he's a depressed and bitter sack of **** who, unlike his father doesn't want a harem, and thus needs a partner. He's not exactly enthusiastic about the, but Angi has made a good impression so far. Would you be opposed to one of Ironfang's advisors trying to wrangle her in?

Hmmm... do you mean Princess Anguri? Your advisors are certainly welcome to try and wrangle, but they'd have to contend with her husband, Krama... and her lover, Seri. :smalltongue: I think it'd make for fun RP though, so go right ahead!

That said, Anguri and Krama will rise to the Twin Thrones in Round 12, and they've got pretty militaristic ambitions. They're both really impressed with Sympol's armies... maybe we could work out another kind of deal?

As for the duel... (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17289019#post17289019) you go right ahead and issue that challenge! :smallsmile:

Tychris1

2014-04-11, 11:01 AM

Hmmm... do you mean Princess Anguri? Your advisors are certainly welcome to try and wrangle, but they'd have to contend with her husband, Krama... and her lover, Seri. :smalltongue: I think it'd make for fun RP though, so go right ahead!

That said, Anguri and Krama will rise to the Twin Thrones in Round 12, and they've got pretty militaristic ambitions. They're both really impressed with Sympol's armies... maybe we could work out another kind of deal?

As for the duel... (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17289019#post17289019) you go right ahead and issue that challenge! :smallsmile:

Ugh, going from a single member family into understanding real royal families is confusing. Sorry, all these Raaneki people are throwing me off my game (I am confuzzled), I need to look at your family tree or something and double check everything. It'd still be pretty fun anyway. Either way, the Sympol are out on the hunt (www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOg5VxrRTi0). :smalltongue:

*After the business with Greta is handled with*

Ironfang begins to stumble about the arena, waving his Iron Claw about haphazardly before shouting to the skies like a drunken town crier.

"HEY FIRE BIRD LADY! WHAT WAS ALL THAT ABOUT SEEING ME HUH? COME ON LETS GO, YOO AND ME! I'LL KNOCK YOU OUT SWEAR ON ME MUM!"

aspi

2014-04-11, 11:38 AM

Ironfang tilted his head, slightly taken aback by the question he was presented with. It wasn't everyday that a Duke was openly questioned like that. Most of the time the Duke just did whatever he wanted and no one batted an eye (A fact that Ironfang learned at a young age when Bloodfang up and decided to walk through the castle in his birthday outfit for a day). He flicked his tongue about in his mouth, trying to properly assess what to do. Yet the prospect of getting questioned began to grind on his mind, until finally it worked it's way to the forefront of his thoughts.

"Oh, I don't know, perhaps it's because I was thrown out of a window and ignited by my father,"

He hissed the words out like envenomed daggers.

"Maybe it's because I was dragged away from my home, a place that I doesn't even feel like home anymore, and was shunted off down here on some stupid idea,"

His body began to tense up, his armor jingling as he began to bristle.

"Or maybe it's because I had a crown forced upon me, purely due to my entire family being butchered. A crown I don't want. My entire body being a burnt, lacerated mess. Waking up everyday in my bed, quaking in agony, shaking in a cold sweat that never goes away."

Hitting his boiling point, he thrusted his iron arm forward, putting it on full display for Bekya to look at.

"MAYBE IT'S BECAUSE I LOST MY ARM."

Bekya stumbled back a few steps from the outburst, staring at the massive iron fist. One step to be exact, as at that point, the stone of the parapet was pressing against her back again. The defiant look was replaced by a spark of empathy. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..." She stuttered, then reiterated "I'm sorry."

The Na'nuk girl fell quiet for a moment. She bit her tongue but then spat it out anyway "But that's not really a reason everyone else should be miserable. I understand..." she shook her head "No, I don't understand and I can't understand what happened to you. But shouldn't it be the other way around? You know... everyone's good mood rubbing off on you?" Growing a bit bolder again she added "You came here after all. You can't tell me your advisors can make you do things if you don't want them to." With a faint smile she added "Otherwise you could safely hand your crown to them and be done with that problem at least."

It was worded like a question but she made it sound like a statement "You came here for a reason, did you not? That reason can't be to make everyone else miserable... else you'd be fighting in the streets and not the arena. So what do you want? Besides publicly wallowing in pain that is, since you just told me you don't really want that."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-11, 12:13 PM

Ugh, going from a single member family into understanding real royal families is confusing. Sorry, all these Raaneki people are throwing me off my game (I am confuzzled), I need to look at your family tree or something and double check everything. It'd still be pretty fun anyway. Either way, the Sympol are out on the hunt (www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOg5VxrRTi0). :smalltongue:

*After the business with Greta is handled with*

Ironfang begins to stumble about the arena, waving his Iron Claw about haphazardly before shouting to the skies like a drunken town crier.

"HEY FIRE BIRD LADY! WHAT WAS ALL THAT ABOUT SEEING ME HUH? COME ON LETS GO, YOO AND ME! I'LL KNOCK YOU OUT SWEAR ON ME MUM!"

Haha, yeah... what with marriages that almost encourage lovers on the side, I guess Raaneki lineage can get a little confusing at times. :smalltongue:

I just had a thought... I had intended Anguri and Krama to keep Seri as their lover when they become Lady and Lord (it would be a perfect way to demonstrate what a Raaneki triad looks like), but Seri's almost as fierce as Anguri. Maybe she'd take a liking to Ironfang... how reproductively compatible are Sympol with humans?

As for the duel, you take the victory for the second bout, and personally I'd love to RP out all three bouts. Also: sorry if I stepped on any god-modding toes. I tried not to dictate his actions too much, but I'm happy to make any edits you need. :smallsmile:

Anguri's warlike heart leapt when she heard the drunken calling of Sympolemou's regent. "Battlewine!" she called out, and in moments a bottle of black glass was placed in her hands. She uncorked it and drank the whole bottle. Onlookers might have grown fearful for the amount of wine this compact, blade-thin woman had just imbibed, but they would have forgotten that she was already counted among the greatest of the Raaneki. She moved over to her gear like a panther, but by the time she had picked up sword and buckler, it was already clear that the wine was taking effect.

She turned, revealing a fierce countenance. She wore quilted armor of golden silk, and carried a buckler and cutlass of mithral. She was almost shaking with anticipation as she considered her opponents armaments and defenses. She was definitely swaying with drink by the time they closed for combat.

Princess Anguri's stance was much wider than normal. She seemed to need the balance, but it also allowed her to twist and strike from surprising angles. "The Vineyard Spear!" someone in the stands remarked. "But with the Heron Blade? What skill!" She feinted and leapt with surprising grace, but each step came with a drunken lurch. Still, it almost seemed planned. She pressed Ironfang backward across the field, moving along a twisted line like a vine reaching for the sun. In a moment of weakness, Duke Ironfang bashed her buckler and sword from her hands and locked his metal arm around her throat. A cruel dagger appeared in the Princess' hand, and the two tumbled to the earth, biting and clawing. The official had to get help to drag the two apart, and counted it as a draw. Anguri screamed like a banshee when they finally released her. "Good!" she said to the Duke. "Better'n I could've dreamed." She let out a loud burp as she gathered her weapons for the second bout.

lt_murgen

2014-04-11, 12:24 PM

Casca![/COLOR]" she called after the ceremonies. "Champions belong together." Her husband Krama and lover Seri stood just behind with naked ambition. "Find us in the taverns tonight, if you dare!"

The three wouldn't have thought that the Quill's dark skin could show much of a blush, but the woman turned a bright red. Her eyes hastily scanned over the two women, but lingered a bit longer on Krama. She tried to be diplomatic. "My apologies, but I've tested my limits enough for one day. You are remarkable people to have energy after these events, truly." With that, she bowed and left.

[B]Father? Don't come at me for yor family trobbles.[/COLOR]" She looked over Amber as she gripped the hand at her throat, digging her nails into the woman's arm. Greta grit her teeth. "Yo're islander, are yo? Is dhisz about Jonasz?" She kicked out at Amber's abdomen to get away of her grip.[/SPOILER]

Amber used the momentum of the kick to propel her away, pulling Greta's weapon out of her hand. "Yes, Jonas Grumby, my father! He stopped writing us shortly after the Cantus Sai!"

Amber moved as if to go for Greta's throat again, but at the last moment threw a leg sweep instead, intending to take the woman off her feet.

ooc: it was only spoilered because I didn't know if you wanted to entertain this line of conversation. .

Morph Bark

2014-04-12, 07:55 AM

Stumbling backwards from the blow, Ironfang was rather impressed by the display of Sympol fighting styles. His hand was still bloodied, his heart was pounding, and in the heat of the moment he began to smear his face with blood, wetting his helmet with his crimson life force. Taking several deep breathes in, Duke Ironfang tried to remember his identity.

"My name's..... My name's..... who AM I?....."

He began to scratch the bottom of his chin, nearly falling to the ground as he lost his balance. Steadying himself, a flash of brilliance hit him, and gears started turning in his head.

"I....... Ir..... Iron?......... IronRat! Me name's Duck IronRat!..... No weight.... That's not right.... Duke! Duke Ironfang!"

Stumbling forward to Greta, Ironfang held his prosthetic arm over her shoulder and used her as a balance. Head bobbing about, he began to whisper to her.

"You know what? I like yooo.... We're gonna be... grate freends!"

The look of the banged-up, iron-encased, blood-smeared rat was a mix of pitiful and frightening. Greta wasn't sure which one moreso, and looked weirdly at her defeated opponent. "Aheh."

Memory loss from the fighting? Had she hit him that hard? Maybe it had simply been getting repeatedly pummeled by various opponents. She'd seen him perform admirably in earlier fights, so it wasn't like it was just this thing. She had to refrain from laughing at him when he tried to recall his name out loud. "Sure buddy," she told him, banging his armour with a soft punch, "I ken dig that. Let's take a brake now dhough, get yor screws tight and good."

Amber used the momentum of the kick to propel her away, pulling Greta's weapon out of her hand. "Yes, Jonas Grumby, my father! He stopped writing us shortly after the Cantus Sai!"

Amber moved as if to go for Greta's throat again, but at the last moment threw a leg sweep instead, intending to take the woman off her feet.

Greta leapt up and came down on Amber. She moved to sit on her and pin her arms with her shield and the chain of her sickle. "Look lady, I don't know why he did dhat, but dhat was a decade ago! Get over it!" She shouted, her eyes wet but not with blood. "Yo're a bloody queen, for lord's sake, yo should be able to handle being without yor father!"

WaylanderX

2014-04-12, 12:26 PM

"Pyoka?" Paco thought for a moment and then let out an exasperated sigh. "Prajvalani Yose." He nodded. That explained a lot.

"My Empress, I can say I know not for certain what it holds. The Blazing Temple has held on to treasures for over a thousand years. The greatest treasure might indeed be in it or it may contain naught but air, and that the only treasure it holds is the journey taken to open it, in the hopes that that journey teaches greater wisdoms and brings more treasures than a bottle could ever hold. It could be something simple or something of the highest magical power, like the source of a new river waiting to flow or the essence of Fire and Life itself. Such stories I've heard before."

"I will search for the path myself then, with the help of my countrymen and their prowess."
Nyllana nodded and smiled.
"Thank you for this insight and you time, monk Paco. May your Prowess guide you forever."

SamBurke

2014-04-12, 03:46 PM

"It's quite likely that all you needed to do was ask," Tendaji smiled and chuckled to himself. "Give my regards to Humperdink. It has been sometime since I've seen him. Hopefully he and his family are doing well. If you don't mind, I'm going to have a seat and enjoy the rest of the spectacle. You're free to join me if you wish, but don't feel obligated. With that Tendaji went to find a seat with the rest of the Genivanans hooting and hollering at the duels.

Viz nods. "He will be most interested in this news. Many thanks, Lord Tendaji! May the ports of Guilder and Genivana always be safe harbors for each other. Speaking of which, I was authorized to give you a certain something which your wise men may find interesting..." He leaves for a moment, to obtain a scroll. Later, in the midst of the wild cheering, he presents a missive from the Doge.

Dear Friend,

You are a great mind of the world, and one of my father's most dearly held allies. Often he spoke of the wisdom of your people, and used your lands as example of how to hold others in respect, regardless of race or creed. In honor of our long friendship, I have authorized the bearer of this message, Prince Viz of Guilder's innumerable fjords, to present you with certain diagrams and alchemical processes which I believe your people will find most useful.

Please, accept this gift on behalf of my father's memories, and in toast to the great future that we have together. I, for one, am certain that our futures lie side by side in the halls of wisdom, and look forward to speaking with you in those halls. Perhaps at the Grand Ball, some years following this?

Regardless, I appreciate a man of your sagacity ruling one of the titans of this world. May you live long, and rule with equal wisdom.

Signed,
The Doge of Guilder,
Humpderink the Just

Attached by Guilderene Royal seal to this letter are a sheaf of drawings, sketches, and recipes. A quick survey over them reveals the lot to be famous Eastern ships, as well as recipes for tar, pitch, and oils of the sort required by mariners.

[OOC: Have Ocean-going tech! On the house. :smallwink: Just lemme edit it into my actions.]

lt_murgen

2014-04-12, 04:19 PM

Greta leapt up and came down on Amber. She moved to sit on her and pin her arms with her shield and the chain of her sickle. "Look lady, I don't know why he did dhat, but dhat was a decade ago! Get over it!" She shouted, her eyes wet but not with blood. "Yo're a bloody queen, for lord's sake, yo should be able to handle being without yor father!"

Amber twisted, grasping the shield and bringing an elbow into Greta's face. She felt the sickle chain pull tight across her other arm, and a sharp sting as Greta landed a blow as well. The official whistled, calling for an end to the round.

"I can handle myself, girl." She looked at the cutting blow Greta had landed "You can too as well."
THe official indicted a simultaneous blow, awarding 1 point to both the combatants.

"But my father is old. I would have liked him to meet his grandchildren before he went over the sea."

Morph Bark

2014-04-13, 04:13 PM

Greta spat out some red spittle as she got up. "I'll give him dhe message if I meet him." She turned and walked off to the stands, seeing Shvedrishti awaiting her. Paco probably wasn't too far away, but she couldn't see him. Just as well, she could go get some Heartwine.

lt_murgen

2014-04-14, 08:23 PM

OOC: I know this thread is more or less done, but I had planned on finishing this over the weekend and posting it. But real life got in the way (darn it). So here it is:

Amber Versus IronFang

Note- I am assuming that Amber and Ironfang squared off before he got drunk.

Round 1
Ironfang stood in the combat circle. His living hand gripped the fine halberd, his iron arm restlessly twitching. Fighting mock duels was one thing, but against another regent was something else. His advisors warned him to hold back some and maintain control. They knew little of the Islanders beyond what was written in the Scrolls of Prowess, and had never seen them in battle. Their renown pacifism sickened him; the very antithesis of the Sympol. But they were here for public relations, not to make new enemies.
Amber appeared, and the crowd grew agitated. They has seen her in her jet-black armor when sparring with their Princess. Now, however, she dressed differently. She fought essentially naked, in only a pair of green breeches! Covered from head to toe in various shades of green ink, with green streamers tied to her limbs, she made quite a sight. She held her arms above her head, even the Kukri had been painted green.

He didn’t think he could be more irritated, but he was. What kind of fool comes into a combat arena without armor? And a regent, on top of that. This woman was clearly a fool. His iron arm twitched as his countenance grew grim. Damn his advisors and their poor intelligence.
The round began. Ironfang advanced slowly, weaving his halberd with expertise. He intended to keep the woman at a distance, neutralizing her small reach and weapon. Amber danced and wove as she approached, flirting with the edge of his reach. Several times she presented him the opportunity to land a glancing blow. All the varying shades of green were blurring together, an effect of his green tinted visor. So he refrained, waiting for an opening.

This was, of course, what Amber had hoped for- hesitancy and decreased vision. Her whole strategy depended on it, and on the Sympol realizing it. He dancing movements offered him yet another opportunity. He took it, a slashing upwards cut towards her shoulder. Amber instead used her own movements to tuck into a quick roll, landing a solid blow across Ironfang’s thighs. Angrily, brought the blunt end of the polearm into the ground where Amber should have been. Instead, Amber had thrown herself to the side, landing a kick to the back of the knee. It buckled, and he sagged to one side.

A whistle blew, signaling the end of the round- and a point for the Regina of the Jeweled Cities.
Ironfang turned to look at the Regina as he regained his feet. She lay panting, covered in the sand of the stadium. “Next round, I will not hold back.” He told her.

“I am counting on it.” She said as she struggled to her feet.
(Amber 14, Ironfang11)

Round 2:
The combatant were given a few minutes to rearm and recover between rounds. “She’s fast.” Ironfang thought. “And quite agile. Clearly she was a woman who knew her limitations.” Ironfang set his halberd aside- it was simply too slow. Glancing up, he saw Amber struggling to quickly get into her black leather armor. It was going to be close, he realized. He selected a particularly nasty looking short sword from his arsenal. Turning, he heard the whistle and saw Amber had not had time to select a weapon.

Or had she? Ironfang was not to be fooled twice. As the two circled each other, he studied her. Yes, there they were. The barbed gloves. He remembered seeing how they were used to disarm the Rannekan princess. Well, he would not lose his weapon that easily. Chattering his pointy teeth at her aggressively, he switched his wicked blade to his metallic hand.

A look of unease came over the Regina’s face. Amber had not been expecting that, clearly. Her fear and indecision pleased him, not just a little bit. Fear of the Sympol should be the natural order of things. He capitalized upon it. He began to push her with aggressive steps and parries. “Look who is hesitating now?” He smirked.

The two sparred for a few moments more, Amber darting in to try to get a solid grip, then darting out of the way as the sword slashed. A series of three quick slashes forced Amber into a crouching dodge that wound up with her sprawled on her stomach. Ironfang stomped hard, just barely missing Amber. She tumbled backwards to escape, but Ironfang followed quickly, sending a massive downward stroke. At the last instant, she managed to clasp her hands about the blade, the barbs protecting her from the slash.

Snarling, Ironfang threw all his weight, all his strength, into shoving her away. Amber Instead collapsed backwards, re-directing the Sympol’s momentum rather than fighting it. Ironfang fell forward as his weight carried him down. She followed up by grabbing his leg and pinning it, landing her whole weight upon Ironfang’s back. They struggled for a few more moments until it became evident he could not regain his feet, nor shake her off. A whistle blew, signaling another point for Amber.

Disengaging, Amber offered the Duke her hand. She was panting, completely out of breath. It was clear the Duke had pushed her to her very limits. He shook his head, rejecting her offer. Even in defeat, he would show no need for assistance.
Amber 14, Ironfang 13

Round 3:
The fight was over, and they both knew it. Amber had taken the first two passes, so the third was a mere formality. Often, either the victor or the defeated would concede the third match. But not these two. It was a matter of pride and respect. Amber wielded shield and spear, and Ironfang his halberd. His unstoppable force against her immovable object. Amber withstood strike after strike, gradually wearing down but unable to counter. The metal arm was far more effective than any mere shield.

Finally, he landed a slashing diagonal blow that knocked the shield from her hands and sent her sprawling. A rush of exultation ran through him as he continued his round-about stroke, landing a solid blow to the woman’s leg. The whistle blew, and he raised his metal arm in triumph.

Or tried to. It wasn’t working as well as it should. Glancing down, he saw the broken tip of Amber’s spear lodged in the elbow joint. She too had managed a solid blow as she fell backwards. The round was a tie.
Amber 9, IronFang 9.