Empire! IC: The Jeweled City's 50th Anniversary [Archive]

lt_murgen

2014-04-21, 12:06 PM

The Jeweled Cities 50th Anniversary Party - 387

The party was held in late Spring, before the summer heat set in. It was planned for four days, though the first and last were for arrival and departure. Those that had their own ocean transport made their way to Big Boy, the largest island in the entire archipelago. The rest were granted transport from one of the port cities populated by the AQUA peoples.

When they arrived, each delegation was greeted and escorted to the accomodations set aside for them. The event was taking place along the shores of a deep horse-shoe bay of warm, shallow water. In addition to formal housing, each group had a pavillion arranged for them along the main gathering area of the beach.

The AQUA delegation pavilion lay exactly in the middle of the main beach, nestled against a palm grove. The guests are assured that, at any given time, at least three members of the Senior Council will be available, should they be needed.

Visiting delegations were informed that should they have any needs or desires, the people in the blue hats would assist them promptly. They are also informed that the White tent has healers on staff should someone require medical attention of any sort.

The only special event planned is following dinner on the second night, where the AQUA delegation will have two new innovations to share with the assembled delegations. Beyond that, the islands are at their disposal and daily events are planned. The schedule below is posted prominently in many places:

Academy of Sail and Navigation tours: Self-guided, follow the signs.
Archipelago tours: Boats leave on mid-day bell and mid-afternoon bell.
Arts and Crafts: for the children, in the Blue Tent, all day.
Deep Sea Fishing: Boats leave on mid-day bell and mid-afternoon bell.
Dice Gaming: Red tent, all day, prizes given to player with most wins.
Fire-walking lessons: each night after sunset.
Free- running course: Available all day. Amber path is for novices, Pearl path for people familiar with free-running, and Turquoise for experts.
Group dinner: 2 hours after mid-afternoon bell.
Jielf match: bring your own foursome, clubs and balls provided. Daily prizes awarded to best foursome.
Religious retreat: Leaves for the Isle of Birds on mid-day bell, returns by dinner.
Shark Spearing: Guides available upon request. Knee boots required.
Tiles tournament: Red tent, all day, prizes given to player with most wins.
Volcano tours: Boats leave on mid-day bell and mid-afternoon bell.

For fire-walking, roll a 1d6 and add your FAITH score. Anything under a 4 results in being burned.
For Dice gaming: 3 rolls of 1D6 plus your Luck score.
For Jielf, make 4 rolls of 1D20 rolls, subtracting the MILITARY SCORE on each. The minimum is 1.
For Tiles, each match is a 1D10 plus your CURIOSITY score on each.

Each delegation will find their pavillion stocked with Raanekan wine, local beer, and fruit flavored water. Food is also provided- fruit, dried meat and seafood, and a variety of nuts and other snack foods. Several times a day, large fires cook up wild boar, ground-parrot, and larger ocean fish. Huge kettles provide an ongoing buffet of seafood boil with rice.

The pavillion themselves are outfitted in Islander fashion- large cushions on rugs for general seating, rice-paper screens seperating areas of tables and chairs for business conversations, and hammocks seperated by sheer curtains for lazy afternoon naps.

lt_murgen

2014-04-21, 12:11 PM

Region Dice gaming Fire walking Jielf Tiles
aqua 4-7-4 7 3-1-11-6 18-19-13
Athelmark 9-4-4 ? ? ?
Anguri 7-8-9 2 12-7-10-1 15
Shvedrishti 11-10-9 13 9-4-16-12 5

Shvedrishti is killing at Dice, and can evidently walk through fire like it was carpeting
The Aqua team seems to be the best at Jielf. Makes sense, since they developed the game.

SamBurke

2014-04-21, 01:31 PM

Guilder arrives in Humperdink's preferred style: laid back, quietly, and with a ton of children running around. Inigo and Yvinia are only the most extroverted of a quite large delegation, which is amusing itself at practically every one of the stations, even without competing.

[OOC: Grab anybody you want. Welcome peeps!]

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-21, 02:44 PM

The Raaneki delegation was one of the largest (nearly 100 people), but they brought along the least clothing of any of their peers. Even the royal family--who typically dressed for the lowest common denominator of decency--wore sheer skirts and tunics that looked like they would fall off in the slightest breeze.

"Cousins!" Queen Anguri hailed from the head of the pack. "Have you heard the news? We're famous on the continent!" It was a cryptic enough greeting, but the smile on Anguri's face promised mischief rather than dire news.

Aedilred

2014-04-21, 04:09 PM

Members of the Horwik clan are heavily-represented in the Jarrland delegation, apparently eager to see the Jewelled Cities for themselves after Tempest's sojourn in the kingdom, and to show off their own seafaring skills. Villem, the acting Horwik clan chief, is here with them, trying to conceal his own eagerness at the chance of meeting the pirate lords of the islands. The delegation is headed by King Athelmark himself, and his son Athelmere, who seems to be trying to cultivate an image similar to his father's, with long hair and a short beard, albeit where Athelmark's hair is grey - rather greyer than it had been at the Grand Ball - Mere's is a raven black. There appear to be no women in the delegation - whether this is down to the experiences of the Grand Ball or simply because there are no women remaining uncommitted to marriage elsewere in the Jarrow family is unclear.

Despite the time of year, the Jarrlanders are clearly unused to this sort of heat, and, clad mostly in relatively heavy wool, are seen peering enviously at the other delegations in their light clothes. The Raaneki women prove particularly popular for some reason, and attract a great deal of attention every time they are spotted.

The Horwiks are thoroughly at home, barely having arrived before they start wolfing down seafood - and the exotic fruits which have proven so popular in their country - and jostling with each other to sign up for the shark-spearing where they hope to impress their friends and hosts with their abilities. The deep-sea tours also prove popular, since the Jarrs as yet have no ocean-going ships; the king is keen to encourage his people to get some experience on such vessels and see what they can pick up. The highlanders and foresters in the delegation are more keen to stay on dry land, munching on boar and swigging the beer (when the wine is tried and found to be good, that is enthusiastically adopted too).

While his people swarm happily over the beach visiting the attractions, the king asks if he and his immediate entourage - Athelmere, Villem and a handful of wiry highlanders carrying a large chest - may speak with the Senior Council - although Athelmark is observed to chug at least three beers when he seems to think nobody is watching.

aspi

2014-04-21, 05:49 PM

Imnaya wiped her sweaty palms for the twentieth time on a kerchief that she hadn't worn around her neck where it belonged, ever since they'd left the port. It wasn't just the heat, she was also getting more nervous the closer they drew to their destination. Tinkering, drawings and mechanics were her thing. People were not. She was glad Ania and Näiyop had decided to come after all, despite all the work that still had to be completed for the expedition to the north in the coming year. It wasn't Imnaya's first trip to the south, but that had been so long ago and seemingly in another life. Ania was very quiet, but Näiyop, who sat next to her and couldn't help but notice her anxiety, grinned mischievously and quoted the word's he'd never let Imnaya live down "Relax. It will work. I'm sure of it." She sighed and looked out on the ocean, watching the Jewelled Isles draw closer.

lt_murgen

2014-04-21, 06:23 PM

*snip*

Amber and her husband manage to personally greet Humperdink, Inigo, and Yvinia. Evelyn's children quickly mingle with the Guilder children, organizing an impromptu game of some sort, running both into and out of the water.

Smiling at the man, Amber chides him gently about his age, assuring him that a few days of sun and water will make him feel young again.

*snip*
.

"Famous? No, we haven't heard. Unless you mean infamous." Amber chided right back as she gave her good friend a hug. She looked her friend up and down, "You know you might have over-dressed. I have a spare short vest you can borrow." She laughed, if only because they were dressed so similarly. Where the Raaneki wore skirts, the Islanders wore thin breeches. They eschewed shirts, favoring vests that they could button for modesty. Not that they did that often.

*snip*

A particularly attractive female wearing la large blue hat, jeweled short vest, and light silk breeches happily escorts them to the main pavillion. Tempest is hanging on Athelmere, as usual. The Jarrlanders had learned to accept her very overt displays of affection and she, for the most part, accepted only focusing them on 'Mere. She even chides their escort, "Penalty, 5 yards for excessive jiggling", and launching a playful kick at the woman's backside.

Inside the AQUA pavillion, people milled about. A few sat at tables, but many lounged on the overstuffed pillows on the beautiful embroidered rug stretched out in the sand. "Grandma!" Tempest shouted, running over and nearly tackling an elderly woman.

"Tempest, clownfish!" She gave kisses on both cheeks. "It has been too long." Looking up, she says "And you brought those wonderful Jarrlanders your letters spoke about." As she struggled to her feet, she chided the girl, "You could have stopped in Turquiose and let them get some comfortabe clothes, girl."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-21, 07:30 PM

The salt water spray over the bow of Coalition ship, The Second Crack was something Syana had enjoyed the first day of the journey and quickly found intolerable as it wrecked her hair and ruined her clothing. Thus she had spent the majority of the time inside her quarters playing cards with her daughter Mira when the sixteen year old wasn't being less fussy than her mother and enjoying the top deck. They were accompanied as well by a Nyroth young lord and Dusk Knight, the reserved Ser Kalvin Belith. This journey was a trial for the new order to see how they might fit into the political game of the Triumvirate being composed of the vastly different faefolk of Nyroth and with history stretching back to the mythical Faedas that was beginning to be restored as power rebalanced between the faefolk and the lizardfolk living in the province.

Accompanying them as well was the crew of the ship, the captain of which was a Woodwind man who had been trained by the first teachers sent to Emerald City by the JC as well as a smattering of Woodwind guards and a few Radurjic watafiti seeking sabbatical or enlightenment to pursue election to the now highly vacant chuo wa mashahidi, though they dressed without religious ceremony to avoid dredging up memories of the Ball seven years ago.

They arrived at the Cities port in a few days time from Emerald City and docked at the port on Big Boy. The delegation composed of Syana, Mira, and Ser Belith made their way to the party area set up along the beach, the two Woodwind women quickly abandoning their shoes though Belith retained his plate boots that sunk him into the sand with the weight of his quarter armored frame. Syana kept her eyes peeled for the Raaneki or Celerese delegation that they might discuss the deals that had been written of in their correspondences but she kept a warm smile and friendly gaze ready for whoever would approach her. It was impossible to be sour in such a place, though a glance at Ser Belith changed her mind that it was nearly impossible.

lt_murgen

2014-04-21, 08:25 PM

*SNIP*

A pair of nicely tanned and muscular men in blue hats escort your party to their bungalow. At first, it looks like a ramshackle affair, unsuitable for royalty. Composed mostly of bamboo and thatch, it stood several feet in the air on stone pillars. Once inside, however, the cabana showed its opulence. Sheer curtains of Nyrothian silk gently wafted in the breeze at the windows. Finely embroidered rugs defined the living and personal spaces. Screens of rice-paper slid along finely grooved tracks, allowing rooms to be reconfigured for multiple uses easily. Door handles and drawer pulls were made of the finest mother of pearl, accented with other gems in a tasteful manner.

The men explained that this was available for the delegations personal use. In addition, a pavillion was also provided for them along the main beach.

Smiling at Syana and Mira, they informed the ladies that should they need anything, anything at all, the men were at their service.

Aedilred

2014-04-21, 08:34 PM

"Lady Ginger, I presume?" Athelmark says, "Or is it just Ginger? Your granddaughter has been impressing upon us the culture of your islands, but I am never quite sure whether to use the title or not. I find it best to err on the side of caution," he adds, with a slight twinkle in his eye.

"May I introduce my son, Athelmere," - Mere bows - "and my brother by marriage, Lord Villem." He turns to his retinue and waves them forward.

"We have brought a gift for the council as... a token of our gratitude and esteem, I suppose." He looks thoughtful for a moment. "Under normal circumstances I would bring pearls or precious stones, but the idea of bringing jewels to the Jewelled Cities just seemed frankly ridiculous, so instead we have brought you something I was pretty sure you wouldn't be able to get hold of easily up here."

The chest is thrown open to reveal a fur cloak. A rather fine fur cloak, by the look of it, but nevertheless definitely a fur cloak. Tempest has been among the Jarrs long enough to know that this sort of thing would be considered a joke, an impression reinforced as Mere winks at her when the chest is opened.

Athelmark lets it sit there for just long enough for the fabulous inappropriateness of such a garment to be obvious, then continues, "I thought it would look good on a wall somewhere at least, or perhaps as a floor covering." He gestures to his men and they haul the cloak out and lay it on the floor, revealing the unmistakeable glint of gold in the chest beyond.

There is a gift for each of the council members: for Indigo, a short fishing trident wound with gold and tipped with mithril; an elegant gold necklace for Whisper; for Samhell a gold-hilted cutlass with a mithril-alloy blade; for each of the nominal Tar council members, a matching curved dagger with cedarwood handle and golden scabbard; a pair of boar's tusks with dwarf-wrought mithril inlay for Howell, and beneath them all, a couple of layers of gold coins.

It soon becomes obvious, though, that the best items have been reserved for Amber's family: all seemingly made by the Mularuhm dwarves from mithril and gold and decorated with precious stones: for Evelyn, a hatpin with white pearls; for Ginger, a brooch nearly eight inches across; for Amber, a pair of bracelets inset with hyacinths (a stone the Jarrs believe brings protection from tempests, and perhaps another example of their curious sense of humour); and for Jonas an onyx mithril-topped walking-cane. Finally, for Tempest, a beautifully-crafted tiara inset with delicately-coloured zircons, almost, but not quite, evoking a crown, which Athelmere presents to her himself.

lt_murgen

2014-04-21, 08:59 PM

Aedilred

2014-04-21, 09:13 PM

As they waited for people to arrive, she attempted to make small talk, specifically with Athelmere. "We must seem an odd bunch, don't you think?
Athelmere ***** his head and thinks about it for a moment. "Not so odd as you might think," he says, after a moment. "I think some of my people - my uncle Villem, for instance - would feel very at home here, though I don't know how they'd stand the heat for long. We're used to the Salterri, of course, and they're very formal, so we've picked up some of that, but left to our own devices-" he shrugs. "To be honest, between the Salterri, some of the stories I've heard from my relatives about Domhan and Sulvan, and some of the things I saw at the Grand Ball, even before - well, you know - this feels almost familiar. Just..." he waves a hand, as if trying to find the right word- "better? Am I allowed to say that?" He grins.

I think that's my favourite forum-filter false positive yet!

Logic

2014-04-21, 09:28 PM

The sea was calm for once, and the Harsh Mistress made her way into the port of the Jeweled Cities, with the Crown regent aboard. Amalia Cordelia Noth had seen to bring her elderly uncle, Rion, after he expressed interest in attending the event.

"One final party." he had begged. In the end, she had relented, not because she thought the event was going to be memorable, but because she thought the opposite. After all, it would be hard to mark a more memorable event than the Grand Ball held just 5 years prior. In truth, she would rather spend her days in Ashenia, with the majority of her husband's family, but as her mother, the Queen had turned ill, she could not stay in Ashenia for much longer.

This foray was to be the first as the heir to Celero, and mark her first event representing the rulership of the kingdom. It was primarily a favor to her favorite uncle, and though he was in much better health than his sister, the Queen, Amalia was convinced he was not long for this world either. Of course, Rion would deny it all the same with his usual charm: "I feel better now than I did twenty years ago!" he would say with a grin, and Amalia would shake her head.

"Uncle, how is it that these islanders have come to bear the webbed hands, like our people, yet are not of Celero?" She asked, as the salt-water sprayed onto the deck.

"It is not entirely known. The Beregenes are thought to have passed this trait on to many of us, and their forebears might have been these islanders. The Salterri have exiled a great many people in their conquests. Though I do not recommend you pose this question to the natives; they are likely to take offense to the idea that they share an ancestor with water-dwarves."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-21, 10:09 PM

A pair of nicely tanned and muscular men in blue hats escort your party to their bungalow. At first, it looks like a ramshackle affair, unsuitable for royalty. Composed mostly of bamboo and thatch, it stood several feet in the air on stone pillars. Once inside, however, the cabana showed its opulence. Sheer curtains of Nyrothian silk gently wafted in the breeze at the windows. Finely embroidered rugs defined the living and personal spaces. Screens of rice-paper slid along finely grooved tracks, allowing rooms to be reconfigured for multiple uses easily. Door handles and drawer pulls were made of the finest mother of pearl, accented with other gems in a tasteful manner.

The men explained that this was available for the delegations personal use. In addition, a pavillion was also provided for them along the main beach.

Smiling at Syana and Mira, they informed the ladies that should they need anything, anything at all, the men were at their service.

Dismissing them with thanks Syana turned to her daughter who was staring wide eyed at the decorations within the bungalow.

"A fine Islander cottage to be sure."

"And fine Islander men as well," her daughter laughed.

Syana smiled despite herself, she hadn't seen Mira this happy in too long. She supposed it must have been a year back when they had visited her 'sister' at the Kasumor Academy.

"You know you don't have to stay in armor Ser Belith, I don't imagine it's very comfortable."

"She's right you know, the Islands are warm and safe, I'm certain you don't need all that armor. Or the sword for that matter."

"As you say my Empress," the man replied, stepping out of the main area and off to one of the personal areas and closing a rice paper screen.

"Say dear, why don't we head down to the beach that you might participate in some of the games and meet some of the other young people here. Maybe a young man..."

Mira grinned at her mother, her hazel eyes sparkling. Her Ashenite heritage was most present there, for though they were not the blue-grey of the Toranaths they reminded her still of her late husband. His namesake and Mira's sister had it even worse, his boyish features already shaping up to resemble the angular lines of his father's face. She had wished to bring him on this trip but the boy was being educated in Genivana and she did not wish to disturb his studies.

"An Islander?" her daughter's voice snapped her free from her reverie.

"It's a possibility, but you are the heir, don't forget that in deciding who you want to court."

In other words don't just go for a romp with the first boy with a flashy smile and a quick tongue with no claim to his name outside a fishing boat. Mira's mocking face communicated she understood her mother's warning.

Suddenly Ser Belith reappeared as he reopened the rice screen. He was dressed in an odd combination of Islander and Nyroth garb, a loose fitting Nyrothian silk shirt draped over with a Cities vest and riding pants for his Kralax that padded the inner leg and got tight around the calf. These were held up by his sword betl, sword removed and replaced with a shorter dagger with a handle shaped from ivory. His feet were bare and his pale silvery-white skin was exposed there alongside the skin of his chest and arms. His pale pink hair lay over his head and hung behind his slightly pointed ears framing his rather displeased face.

"I feel a fool."

"You look fine," Syana insisted though inwardly she noted the pale skin of the Nyrtoh faefolk didn't lend itself well to the looser garb of the Islands.

The Empress gathered her party and headed down to the beach where the party was already beginning to take place.

BladeofObliviom

2014-04-22, 01:26 AM

Normally the Frosten Berapi wouldn't be caught dead in the Jeweled Isles. This is, of course, through no fault of the islanders; the place is just not meant for creatures so adapted to the cold weather, as my narration insists on reminding everyone whenever they show up places. :smalltongue:

However, today is an exception. Princess Ancir of the Glazfell Hegemony arrives aboard a rented vessel along with four retainers, armed only with their hands. Each member of the Frosten company wears a single block of bluish ice at their side that they periodically rub across their faces when the heat grows intense, and Princess Ancir herself appears to have added a nice parasol to that getup to keep the sun off of her. In all honesty, the Princess Ancir is fairly plain. She's certainly elegant and composed in addition to maintaining a proper noble presence, but nevertheless it is easy to look at her as just another princess. No stunning beauty to behold here, just another person. This one just happens to have blue skin. Her dress looks nice, though it's clearly designed for cooler weather than this.

Still, Princess Ancir is here, and seems quite happy to be outside of her father's shadow for once. One can only imagine why he wouldn't want to be here, especially since the last diplomatic event he attended resulted in the death of his firstborn son and his own permanent scarring and reminder of his failings. Actually, in that light it's fairly easy to imagine why he wouldn't want to be here.

The real question is how Ancir got here. Did she run away? Did she stand up to her father and convince him to allow her to act as an emissary? Did she just wait until he was very drunk and ask while he was only paying half-attention? The world may never know. Or maybe someone could ask her. That sounds plausible too.

She is silent for now, merely sitting back and watching the Jielf Players with some amusement. A glass of Heartwine floats upon her outstretched fingers, slowly being sipped away. The retainers are present, but are themselves busy watching from a distance. Though one of the four seems to be trying to convince the others that they should all sign up as a Jielf team because it looks fun.

lt_murgen

2014-04-22, 08:01 AM

*SNIP*

"Better might be a big gandiose." Ginger responded, "We've struggled with concepts that others find common- fidelity, property.." She gave a dismissive wave with her hand. "Others tend to write us off as drunken uncouth pirates." Behind her, someone in a hammock broke out into a long snore, punctuating the point. "We could use a little formality around here." She said loudly.

"Hopefully, Tempest behaved herself while visiting? She didn't embarass you too much?" She said with a smile. It was clear she was digging for the young man's feelings about her granddaughter.

*snip*

ooc- oh, please ask that question!

*SNIP*

As the Nyroth delegation leaves the cottage, they notice a collection of wide-brimmed hats, decorated with beads and feathers, hung on pegs near the door. A small sign nearby reads "For protection from the sun :smallsmile:"

*snip*

A middle aged man wanders by, and stops to talk. "Princess Ancir, I believe? Greetings! I am Indigo Summers, a member of the Senior Council. May I sit beside you for a moment?"

BladeofObliviom

2014-04-22, 08:43 AM

A middle aged man wanders by, and stops to talk. "Princess Ancir, I believe? Greetings! I am Indigo Summers, a member of the Senior Council. May I sit beside you for a moment?"

The princess, much younger than the fellow approaching her, smiled with a strange serenity about her and nodded.

"Feel free, Sir Summers. And how are you on this day?"

lt_murgen

2014-04-22, 09:50 AM

*snip*

Settling in beside her, he adjusted his wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun out of his eyes. He spoke plainly and directly. "We were very surprised that your peopel chose to attend our event. We were worried that the warmth and bright sun might dissuade you."

If you find your accomodations uncomfortable, please let us know. We could easily accomodate you in the city of Opal" He gestured towards the top of the volcano that made up the center of Big Boy, some 10,000 feet above. "Temperatures in the city are easily 15 to 25 degrees cooler, and it is only a couple hour trip to the top."

He gestured down to the blue cube on the chain. "Of course, your group does not look impaired by the heat. Is that the fabled True Ice? It is a sight wonderous to behold."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-22, 10:56 AM

*snip*

A gaggle of Raaneki children--many of them members of the royal family--scrambled after the Guilderene and Islander kids toward the beach, laughing and signing as they went. Three more children--too young to leave their mothers' side, remained with the Raaneki.

"Infamous, yes," Anguri smiled back. She had little use for words, and welcomed them from others. "The whole world knows of two things: Raaneki Heartwine, and the Raaneki tradition of sensuality."

King Krama, a small but powerfully built man, chimed in. "They have come to call the pair of them 'Raaneki Diplomacy!' Seems only fitting our Cousins should share alike." He eyed several Islander women hungrily. "Our skills are close enough, after all!"

After a few moments of conversation, Queen and King turned to present a young couple. "Prince Jacob Serendel of Qarimos," Krama said, much more comfortable with words than his wife. "with his wide and our niece, Princess Calaki."

The pair stepped forward and bowed before hugging their hosts. "Amber!" Calaki giggled. "I was but a girl when last I saw you, and now I am ruler of my own lands. How time changes us!" Dozens of Qarimosi musicians--less painted but no less jolly than the Raaneki--stood close behind with lutes, horns, and many dancers in tow. "Please accept our gift," Calaki said, hips beginning to sway in time with the music. "Qarimos is known for nothing more than our ships and our music. Of course, you have no need of ships!"

The musicians and dancers began to mingle through the crowd with the rest of the Raaneki. The royal family stayed near to their cousins for most of the day, reminiscing and, er, having fun.

I technologized Raaneki Heartwine last round. The tech now grants +2 to opposed Diplomacy checks against opponents who do not have Heartwine as a resource (e.g. most people). Consider it a gift! :smallsmile:

*snip*

The Empress did not have to look hard to find the Raaneki. In fact, given their (lack of) clothing, she might even have averted her eyes. Nearly a hundred Raaneki covered the beaches, playing Jielf and other games, listening to music and drinking wine, and slipping away to quiet parts of the beach and forest with one or several partners. Any one of them would have happily directed the Empress to the Raaneki bungalow, where Queen Anguri and King Krama lounged with a dozen young men and women that might or might not have been a harem.

"Empress! Welcome!" Anguri said, gesturing to a low table full of the scents of food and the bliss of Heartwine. "Sit," she said, adding a hasty "if you please" as she remembered the etiquette of a regent. "Eat and drink your fill. We delight in your company."

The salt water spray over the bow of Coalition ship, The Second Crack

Ha cha! "second crack" indeed! :smallwink::smalltongue:

*snip*

After the introductions and gift giving, King Krama--already drunk--sauntered over to the Jarrland party and approached Athelmark. "Ey! Howzit?" He looked to Amber. "New cousins? Somebody shacking up with our dear Tempest?" He looked at the standard of Jarrland. "By the ancestors! Our colors (http://fc01.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2014/095/6/2/empire__raaneka__heraldry_05_by_zapdynamic-d7cxp3c.png)!"

ANGURI ADITE (40)
Daughter of Aditi, born 347 of Devdan. Red hair, blue eyes. Wispy white tattoos with mottled purple dye. Queen of Raaneka, Marshal of the Berunda Riders, Cousin to the Islanders of the Jeweled Cities. Wife to Krama and mother to Bapa Adite. Called the Golden. Her mother's equal.

KRAMA ADITE (42)
A boy, born in 346. Black hair, blue eyes. Hard red tattoos with white skin dye. King of Raaneka , Berunda Rider, husband to Anguri Adite, father of Bapa. Fearless in battle.

SERI (40)
A girl, born 347. Brown hair, green eyes. Stippled black tattoos, striped light blue dye. Knight, Berunda Rider, lover to Anguri Adite. Fleet of foot.

BAPA ADITE (21-25)
Son of Krama, born 365 by Anguri. No hair, blue eyes. Round red tattoos and no dye. Captain of the First Raaneki Cavalry. Husband to Patari and Masadi. Father of Pahale, Dusari, Tyrti, Catha, Ancavi, and Chathi. A robust man.

PATARI ADITE (21-25)
A girl, born in 365. Blonde hair, hazel eyes. Gentle brown tattoos with golden accent dye. Master wrestler, and stonemason guildowner. Wife of Bapa. Mother of Dusari, Tyrti, and Chathi. A hard woman.

MASADI ADITE (21-25)
A girl, born in 365. Blue hair, blue eyes. Electric blue tattoos with silver accent dye. Master dancer, and acrobat. Wife of Bapa. Mother of Pahale, Catha, and Ancali. A sultry woman.

Bapa/Patari/Masadi Children
Pahale, a 5-year-old boy.
Dusari, a 5-year-old girl.
Tyrti, a 4-year-old girl.
Catha, a 3-year-old girl, twins with Ancavi.
Ancavi, a 3-year-old girl, twins with Catha.
Chathi, a 2-year-old girl.

HANSI DEVDANO (24)
Daughter of Lomadi, born 363 of Ujval. Purple-black hair, brown eyes. Purple-black tattoos with green skin dye from the elbows down. Wife of Wife of Krodhi. Mother of Talvar. A joyful winemaker.

KRODHI DEVDANO (26)
A girl, born in 361. Green hair, brown eyes. Abrupt brown tattoos with blue skin dye. Wife of Hansi. Mother of Talvar. A surly tavernowner.

Hansi/Krodhi Children
Talvar, a 7-year-old boy.

CALAKI SERENDEL (23)
Daughter of Lomadi, born 364 of Ujval. Orange hair, green eyes. Stark orange tattoos with banded green dye. Princess of Qarimos, wife of Jacob Serendel, mother of Aditi Serendel. A clever musician and singer.

JACOB SERENDEL (31)
Son of Jain, born 356 by Alara. Brown hair, green eyes. No tattoos or dye. Prince of Qarimos, Admiral of the Raaneki Navy, wife of Calaki, and father of Aditi Serendel. A puissant captain.

Jacob/Calaki Children
Aditi, a 6-year-old girl.

DACARI DEVDANO (22) ELIGIBLE FOR MARRIAGE
Daughter of Lomadi, born 365 of Ujval. White hair, gray eyes. Flowing white tatoos with ashy black dye. A serene dancer. Trained as a diplomat.

TIKTA SATATO (54)
Son of Satata, born 333 by Aditi. Blonde hair, brown eyes. Simple black tattoos with light brown skin dye. Retired Captain of the First Raaneki Cavalry. Husband to Lady Cassandra Bordeux, father of David, Khili, Sirius, Urani, and Pasa. A formidable archer.

CASSANDRA BORDEUX (58)
Daughter of Lord David Bordeux, born 329 by Candice, nee Firestone. Red hair, hazel eyes. Known as "the Unmarked." Wife of Prince Tikta Satato, mother of of David, Khili, Sirius, Urani, and Pasa. Retired envoy to the Union of the Northwest.

KHILI SATATO (31) HEIRS TO THE TWIN THRONES
Daughter of Cassandra, born 356 of Tikta. Brown hair, hazel eyes. Swirling purple tattoos with blue and gold skin dye. Ancestral priestess and explorer. Wife of Dheva. Mother of Tikta II Satato.

DHEVA SATATO (33) HEIRS TO THE TWIN THRONES
A boy, born 354. Numerous blue tattoos with green skin dye patterns. A storyteller and explorer. Husband of Khili Satato. Father of Tikta II Satato.

PASA SATATO (27)
Son of Tikta, born 360 by Cassandra. No hair, pale eyes. Numerous white tattoos with dark gray skin dye. A noted wise man.

(Plus an additional 70-80 Raaneki and Qarimosi between the ages of 5 and 40.

Aedilred

2014-04-22, 11:16 AM

"Better might be a big gandiose." Ginger responded, "We've struggled with concepts that others find common- fidelity, property.." She gave a dismissive wave with her hand. "Others tend to write us off as drunken uncouth pirates." Behind her, someone in a hammock broke out into a long snore, punctuating the point. "We could use a little formality around here." She said loudly.
He laughs. "Wait until you see our men out on the beach. I promise you, 'drunken and uncouth' are not unfamiliar concepts as far as we're concerned."

"Hopefully, Tempest behaved herself while visiting? She didn't embarass you too much?" She said with a smile. It was clear she was digging for the young man's feelings about her granddaughter.
"Not at all!" Well-" Mere looks a little rueful- "not too much, at any rate. She took a little while for us to get used to, I think, but then doesn't everybody? I certainly don't think she hurt any pride that wasn't, well, asking to be hurt. My people love her now, at least as far as I can tell." He looks briefly in Tempest's direction while talking about her, and a slight smile creeps across his face.

***

After the introductions and gift giving, King Krama--already drunk--sauntered over to the Jarrland party and approached Athelmark. "Ey! Howzit?" He looked to Amber. "New cousins? Somebody shacking up with our dear Tempest?" He looked at the standard of Jarrland. "By the ancestors! Our colors (http://fc01.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2014/095/6/2/empire__raaneka__heraldry_05_by_zapdynamic-d7cxp3c.png)!"

"Wotcher, old chap." Athelmark thrusts out a hand. "Pleasure to meet you." He glances at the standard, seeing the man's surprise. "Ha! Well, I suppose there's a limit to the number of colours you can stick on a shield, isn't there!"

lt_murgen

2014-04-22, 12:23 PM

*snip*

Amer graciously accepts the musicians, pointing out a special pavillion where they can go and rest between performances. Of course, with Raaneki and Islander, "Rest" and "performance" have multiple meanings. Honestly, when the groups get together, they giggle like schoolchildren. Which was the point- to relax and enjoy some time together.

Awesome, thanks. With luck, I might be able to provide a gift to you as well- the reveal to happen mid-week

After the introductions and gift giving, King Krama--already drunk--sauntered over to the Jarrland party and approached Athelmark. "Ey! Howzit?" He looked to Amber. "[COLOR="#800080"]New cousins? Somebody shacking up with our dear Tempest

SHe laughed, Athelmere blushed a bit, and Tempest just gave him a protective hug. "I think the tiara 'Mere gave Tempest might be hinting at certain intentions. She spent the last couple of years in Jarrland as our representative and did develop some very close working relations." Again, the gathered group howled at the doublt entendres- though the Jarrs seemed less amused. Athelmark, however, seemed to get into the fun of it all.

BladeofObliviom

2014-04-22, 01:34 PM

Settling in beside her, he adjusted his wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun out of his eyes. He spoke plainly and directly. "We were very surprised that your people chose to attend our event. We were worried that the warmth and bright sun might dissuade you."

If you find your accomodations uncomfortable, please let us know. We could easily accomodate you in the city of Opal" He gestured towards the top of the volcano that made up the center of Big Boy, some 10,000 feet above. "Temperatures in the city are easily 15 to 25 degrees cooler, and it is only a couple hour trip to the top."

He gestured down to the blue cube on the chain. "Of course, your group does not look impaired by the heat. Is that the fabled True Ice? It is a sight wonderous to behold."

"Indeed!" the princess chuckles, lifting up the block so that it can be seen more clearly. "Under normal circumstances we would scarcely be able to think in this heat, but we opened Trade relations with the Duke of Sympolemou a few years ago, who freely offered some of this unmelting ice in trade for some fruits of the hunt. A good deal for both of us, I think."

She smiles and nods.

"Nonetheless, I appreciate your concern. This is something of an unusual experience for us as you might understand, just as it might be for you to visit the Glazfell with a very hot stone to keep you warm."

lt_murgen

2014-04-22, 02:21 PM

*snip*

He nodded. "Excellent point. Though we tend to favor the company of others to keep us warm when it gets cold." He said, glancing around at the immodest state of undress of the Islander and Raaneki people. "In any event, I won't disturb you much further. Please, enjoy your stay. If business and trade occupy your mind, our pavillion is staffed continually with people who can assist you." He stood to leave.

PM sent on potential trades, we don't need to RP it if you don't want

aspi

2014-04-22, 02:22 PM

Finally, the ship the Islanders had kindly allowed the Na'nuk delegation passage on reached the port. The islanders had told them that it was an armed merchantman, but Näiyop wasn't entirely convinced that trade was the crew's main objective when they weren't ferrying foreign diplomats. They had however been perfectly pleasant company during the entire trip - at least if one factored in Islander customs, which weren't all that different from those in Raaneka that Näyiop had rather grown to like. Imnaya hadn't cared much for conversation with the crew, but she marveled at their expertise. They acted as if they had been born on this vessel. And a few of them of them actullay might have been from all she knew. She would have to talk to Regina Amber about learning from the Islanders. Once the ship was moored, the chieftain gave his thanks to the captain and they disbarked. It must have rained less than a day ago, as the air that drew in from the forests was humid and smelled alive in ways that none of the Na'nuk had ever experienced before in their lives. Almost on command they inhaled appreciatively and relished the thought of spending the next days on this island.

The delegation made their way for the festivities, which could already be heard from the docks. Half a dozen servant carrying luggage and a chest of presents scurried behind them. As they approached their destination, Näiyop suddenly stopped and turned around. With a wide grin on his face he looked at Imnaya and told her "You know, I've always held the firm belief that learning by practice is the best way of learning there is. I think I have overheard an old saying of the locals about learning how to swim by jumping into cold water. I'm not sure how it went exactly, but Regina Amber can surely help you with that. Please send her my regards, I believe her pavillon is that way." With these words, he pointed at a richly decorated pavillon and walked away in the opposite direction towards a tent that offered refreshments. Imnaya opened her mouth in protest and looked at Ania for support, but the chieftain's sister simply smiled encouragingly. The young Na'nuk sighed and headed for the pavillon.

Aedilred

2014-04-22, 02:26 PM

SHe laughed, Athelmere blushed a bit, and Tempest just gave him a protective hug. "I think the tiara 'Mere gave Tempest might be hinting at certain intentions. She spent the last couple of years in Jarrland as our representative and did develop some very close working relations." Again, the gathered group howled at the doublt entendres- though the Jarrs seemed less amused. Athelmark, however, seemed to get into the fun of it all.
Athelmark grins. "I think as far as Mere's concerned, the closer the better." Mere tries to look infuriated at his father's joining in with the teasing, but it's difficult to pull off while looking sheepish, and puts an arm round Tempest instead. The king seems to recall that he's here to make international friends and not just innuendoes, and continues, "But we'd be happy to have her. I think 'Wyrd already thinks of her like a sister, she's a sterling gel. A credit to her people - and her mother," he adds to Amber, with a slight twinkle in his eye.

WaylanderX

2014-04-22, 02:44 PM

Seasick, Eleljak wobbled down the boarding plank onto the shore. He was used to hovercrafts, not these inefficiënt ships.
Holding himself upwards on the railing, he looked up towards his companion. Way up. Grïend stepped on shore after his, compleetly unaffected by seasickness or anything at all for that matter. The scorch wound he got at the Grand Ball was fully healed, leaving only a slight black decolleration in his otherwise clear, lightblue body. He looked down at Eleljak, looking at him in a way Eleljak was the Grïend version of silent laughing.

"What are you laughing a.....*BLAH*" Quickly he leaned over the railing to empty the contents of his stomach.

"MAYBE...YOU SHOULD...TAKE IT EASY...ELELJAK......HERE...LET ME...HELP." Grïend picked Eleljak up and set him upon his shoulder.

"Shut it, you walking pile of rubble." Eleljak retorted weakly. "Lets just find our hosts and find some Heartwine after. There is bound to be some around here somewhere."

Grïend strapped a gigantic backback on his back and set out into the festivities, searching for the hosts of this extravagant party.

QuintonBeck

2014-04-22, 04:15 PM

The Empress did not have to look hard to find the Raaneki. In fact, given their (lack of) clothing, she might even have averted her eyes. Nearly a hundred Raaneki covered the beaches, playing Jielf and other games, listening to music and drinking wine, and slipping away to quiet parts of the beach and forest with one or several partners. Any one of them would have happily directed the Empress to the Raaneki bungalow, where Queen Anguri and King Krama lounged with a dozen young men and women that might or might not have been a harem.

"Empress! Welcome!" Anguri said, gesturing to a low table full of the scents of food and the bliss of Heartwine. "Sit," she said, adding a hasty "if you please" as she remembered the etiquette of a regent. "Eat and drink your fill. We delight in your company."

Ha cha! "second crack" indeed! :smallwink::smalltongue:

Mira having disappeared down the beach Syana and Ser Belith alone approached the Raaneki King and Queen's pavilion.

"My thanks dear Queen," Syana said, moving to sit on a pillow on the opposite side of the table from the Raaneki royalty.

Belith remained standing just outside the pavilion area, carefully moving into the shadows cast by it to protect his skin, having refused to add the Cities hat to his attire.

Syana removed her own large brimmed hat as she sat down and smiled up at the Raaneki as she poured a cup of Heartwine.

After a drink she spoke, "Tell me friends of Dawn, how fair the Raaneki lands? I have heard tale of a system of caves filled with miniature scholars, surely this is only a tale?"

Syana took another sip from her cup. This was a fine drink, finer than any Heartwine she'd had before, silently she hoped her next shipments would contain this vintage and after another sip she resolved she would have to ask that they did if the Raaneki would allow, but first she would hear tale of whether the rumors she had heard of scholar imps were true.

lt_murgen

2014-04-22, 08:06 PM

*snip*

Amber gave her daughter a hug, "I see no reason why she shouldn't continue to represent our interests in your lands for as long as her heart desires." She stepped over and gave Athlemere a MOSTLY motherly hug until Tempest gave her a poke on the shoulder. "You will look after her, wont you? That is the most we can expect from one another." She finished with a certain gravity.

*snip*

Atura and Junior Black were the first to spot a huge block of stone moving along the sand. Someone was riding on it. The partying crowd made room for them to pass through.

Approaching the block, they hailed the pair "Greetings! You must be Griend. Your fame preceedes you. A truer ally of the Hurosha there has never been. And who is with you? "

Aedilred

2014-04-22, 08:21 PM

Amber gave her daughter a hug, "I see no reason why she shouldn't continue to represent our interests in your lands for as long as her heart desires." She stepped over and gave Athlemere a MOSTLY motherly hug until Tempest gave her a poke on the shoulder. "You will look after her, wont you? That is the most we can expect from one another." She finished with a certain gravity.
"I'll look after her as if she were my own daughter," Athelmark says, then realises that might not be necessarily the most appropriate promise. "And I promise to learn from any of my previous mistakes in that respect," he adds more bitterly.

"Hell, if we're swearing oaths to look after the gel, count me in," says Villem. "She's an honorary Horwik already, which makes her one of mine."

Athelmere whoops with delight and lifts Tempest up, swinging her round. For an instant he's suddenly every inch the barbarian, all his poise and propriety abandoned. "I swear to look after her as long as I live," he says happily, as his father tries to suppress a grin and his uncle laughs, and then suddenly turning back to Tempest, "Er, if that's what you want, of course."

Logic

2014-04-23, 03:24 AM

As the Harsh Mistress finally docked, the captain of the vessel finally ceased his nearly non-stop yelling. On more than one occasion, his first officer had to remind him that the Crown Regent was aboard, and it was not appropriate to continue to use the usual vulgar sailor slang. Eventually, Rion had threatened to replace the captain with the first mate, and the captain grumbled and said little else until his passengers had disembarked.

"Uncle, I see no reason to alter the captain's behavior. We were on HIS ship, after all." said the Crown Regent.

"As long as his ship carries the royal family of Celero on official business, he is to be held to our standards, not his." he replied, as they made their way off the gangplank.

Some time later, the pair arrived at the party proper.

Amalia blushed at the sight of the Raaneki, while Rion recalled his wedding at the Raaneki Games and smiled, trying best to keep his smile away from the lecherous side.

"Lady Amber, it was kind of you to invite us to the anniversary party. This is my Uncle, Prince Rion. How do you fare?" said the Princess Regent.

Rion stayed just long enough to acknowledge his hosts and their hospitality, before politely excusing himself and wandering off to speak with the Empress of Ignato.

"Lady Syana. I bear important news. You may wish to sit."

lt_murgen

2014-04-23, 08:08 AM

*snip*

Tempest shoved Athelemer to the ground, rather roughly. "Your going to have to catch me if you think your gonna keep me around forever." She said teasingly, and took off at a dead run down the beach.

Amber smiled, thinking wistfully of the courtship between Iaz and herself. "You better get your feet under you, son, if you want to keep up with her."

Normally taciturn Iaz helped the boy to his feet. "Tempest always loved a little waterfall just over there." He said, pointing. "If you hurry, you can probabaly catch here there."

Watching him run after his woman, Amber turned back to his father. "Today, we should let the couple have some fun. Perhaps tommorow we can find time to discuss what this means for our nations."

*snip*

Amber bowed deeply, thanking the Princess for attending. "Things are well, your Grace. Trade and the spirits of nature have been kind to us. And you? How fares Celero?"

QuintonBeck

2014-04-23, 09:45 AM

Rion stayed just long enough to acknowledge his hosts and their hospitality, before politely excusing himself and wandering off to speak with the Empress of Ignato.

"Lady Syana. I bear important news. You may wish to sit."

After her discussion with the Raaneki Syana had been enjoying watching her daughter play out on the beaches with some other young people, the approach of the Celerese man drew her attention away from them and she smiled at his approach. A smile that faded at his words.

A few chairs, seemingly designed for the beach, sat in the sand and she lowered herself on to one.

"Lord Rion, I hope it is not dire news," she said, her voice concerned.

lt_murgen

2014-04-23, 10:22 AM

OOC: Folks, I am going to put a jump in, because I have something planned for the second day. Feel free to continue conversations on day 1 or night 1. I will post day 2 sometime tonight

Night 1:
The sun was low in the sky when porters began setting up tables and chairs on the main beach. The tables were large round affairs, easily seating 20 people. Smaller rotating stands were put in the middle and loaded liberally with a wide array of food. The tables were elegantly appointed with jewel-inlayed ordinarium utensils and mother of pearl plates. Amber and crystal oil lamps provide table lighting. Wine, beer, fruit-infused water, and other spirits were readily available.

As the guests ate, server made certain no bowl went empty, no cup unfilled. The entire Jeweled City Senior Council circulated amongst the crowd, making small talk and thanking everyone who turned out to celebrate. Eventually, the dinner was cleared away and replaced with dessert items of fruit, chocolate, and honey. Some were even chilled, sitting is bowls of ice hauled down from the city of Opal in the caldera above.

A large group of musicians provided accompaniment as Islander dancers and fire handlers entertained the crowd. They kept the acrobatics and fire-breathing to a minimum, however, given the events of the recent past.

Eventually, the children and their guardians were gathered up and taken closer to the water, by a large bonfire. There, they were entertained with silly songs and stories, jugglers and sleight of hand artists as night came. The adults each were given a small gift- a harlequin mask on a stick- mother of pear and silk, decorated tastefully with gems and inlay. It provided a certain playful anonymity. Music and dancing were the order of the evening, and the friskiness of the Islanders was on full display, with couples and small groups sneaking off into pavilions, or the dark woods.

Aedilred

2014-04-23, 10:38 AM

Tempest shoved Athelemer to the ground, rather roughly. "Your going to have to catch me if you think your gonna keep me around forever." She said teasingly, and took off at a dead run down the beach.

Amber smiled, thinking wistfully of the courtship between Iaz and herself. "You better get your feet under you, son, if you want to keep up with her."

Normally taciturn Iaz helped the boy to his feet. "Tempest always loved a little waterfall just over there." He said, pointing. "If you hurry, you can probabaly catch here there."
A rather startled Mere sprints off after her in the direction Iaz had indicated, looking for the waterfall. The carousing clansmen on the beach who had seen Tempest run off yelled, jeered and whistled as he ran, shouting encouragement and pointing in (presumably) the direction they'd seen her run.

Watching him run after his woman, Amber turned back to his father. "Today, we should let the couple have some fun. Perhaps tommorow we can find time to discuss what this means for our nations."
"I agree," Athelmark says. "For now, a toast, to young love?" He gestures to the Raaneki as well, inviting them to join him. "And then I'll let you get back to your other responsibilities," he says with a smile.

***

As they step out of the Council's pavilion, they notice the Jarrlanders drinking and celebrating. A small group of them have taken up residence near one of the beer tents and are singing a jaunty seafaring tune - whether for the sake of it or to try to teach it to the locals isn't entirely clear - while a couple of them have waded into the shallows and are enthusiastically wrestling and splashing in the warm water. More of them are sprawled over the beach, drinking, chatting amiably, and eyeing up the local (and Raaneki) women.

"Best try to get your men under some measure of control," the king says to Villem.

"Couldn't agree more," the chieftain says, and heads off in the direction of a beer tent.

As Athelmark is passing the dice tent, a couple of his followers spot him and call out. "Lord king! Come try your hand at dice!" Initially trying to decline, he eventually bows to the popular will and ventures within to chance his hand:
Rolls of 9, 4, 4 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17354211&viewfull=1#post17354211)

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-23, 11:15 AM

*snip*

((plus everything else you two have said... I'm lazy. :smalltongue:))

King Krama and a few Raaneki friends roared along with Amber's jests.A few of the Raaneki drifted away from the conversation as it went on, but Krama remained a silent observer until Tempest and Athelmere scampered off. "Oh, for the vim of youth, eh? But tell me, Jarrlander, for we have not met. I am Krama Adite, husband of Anguri the Golden and King of Raaneka by her side. Who are you, and what are your passions?"

What a great surprise! (especially if it's what I think it is...) I'll keep my eyes peeled.

*snip*

"Raaneka is more glorious than ever before" King Krama said, beaming. "We are reunited with our ancient kin in Qarimos, and now we have discovered a lost link to our history."

The Queen smiled as she sipped at her Heartwine. "You have heard rightly. We call them 'gnomes.'"

King Krama cut in over his wife. "As nimble upon a rock face as they are within the pages of a book or in a contest of wit. They shun the daylight, but we hope to coax them out once the sun has gone down."

"But how fares the Triumvirate?" Anguri asked, refilling the Empress' goblet herself. "And what of our dear kinswoman, Shvedri? Has she recovered?"

*snip*

At one point during the party, Queen and King happened upon Amalia and the Lord Rion. "Hail, Celerese!" they said, wearing more than they had all week (which still left very little to the imagination). "How fares the Bereginian Reconstruction?" Krama seemed most curious. "I have heard the Raaneki spent their first wages on furs, to keep warm in the chilly North!"

On the Second Day
A tipsy Raaneki Queen strode out to the field with her husband, her lover, and her son in tow. They were all carrying Jielf sticks. "I hear everybody wants these Glazfell Tears." She emptied a goblet and tossed it over her shoulder. "Anybody wanna play us for 'em?"

Fire Walking: 2
Dice Gaming: 7/8/9
Jielf: 12/7/10/1
Tiles: 15

Link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17349983#post17349983)

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-23, 11:23 AM

Fabula and Glamora enter the proceedings without guards or attendants or anyone. They are oddly alone. Glamora stays close to her mother as they make their way over to Princess Ancir.

Aedilred

2014-04-23, 11:48 AM

((plus everything else you two have said... I'm lazy. :smalltongue:))

King Krama and a few Raaneki friends roared along with Amber's jests.A few of the Raaneki drifted away from the conversation as it went on, but Krama remained a silent observer until Tempest and Athelmere scampered off. "Oh, for the vim of youth, eh? But tell me, Jarrlander, for we have not met. I am Krama Adite, husband of Anguri the Golden and King of Raaneka by her side. Who are you, and what are your passions?"
"Pleasure to meet you, lord king," Athelmark replies, thrusting out a hand. "I am Athelmark, king of the Jarrs, and this chap here is my wife's brother Villem, clan chief of Horwik." Villem smiles broadly and bows.

"My passions? Where to begin?" He shrugs. "Of course, there is a difference between my passions and what as king I am actually able to do. I'm trying to teach my people to read, which appears to be going well, if slowly, and from there, hopefully to build, to sail on open water, to explore the far reaches of the world... I recently accompanied a Guilder man to Domhan Abheile, a rare chance to get away from my responsibilities. But usually-" he grins- "hunting and drinking. Old habits die hard."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-23, 11:49 AM

BladeofObliviom

2014-04-23, 11:59 AM

He nodded. "Excellent point. Though we tend to favor the company of others to keep us warm when it gets cold." He said, glancing around at the immodest state of undress of the Islander and Raaneki people. "In any event, I won't disturb you much further. Please, enjoy your stay. If business and trade occupy your mind, our pavillion is staffed continually with people who can assist you." He stood to leave.

PM sent on potential trades, we don't need to RP it if you don't want

Princess Ancir nods.

"Thank you. I will be sure to do so when that time comes."

I'm planning on setting up a lot of trade and will never have the time to RP it all out. It's not that I don't want to interact or anything, it's just that handwaving matters of state is sooo convenient sometimes. :smalltongue:

Fabula and Glamora enter the proceedings without guards or attendants or anyone. They are oddly alone. Glamora stays close to her mother as they make their way over to Princess Ancir.

There's a long moment as the Princess just sits there in thought, enraptured by the sports event before her. Or maybe she's just ogling the often scantily-clad athletes. She turns her head to lift the true ice to her face and nearly falls over in surprise when she notices Fabula's presence!

She quickly proceeds to stumble to her feet and then try to salvage the motion with a respectful curtsey.

"High Priestess! Please forgive my surprise, as I was unaware that you would be here."

zabbarot

2014-04-23, 12:08 PM

"Raaneka is more glorious than ever before" King Krama said, beaming. "We are reunited with our ancient kin in Qarimos, and now we have discovered a lost link to our history."

The Queen smiled as she sipped at her Heartwine. "You have heard rightly. We call them 'gnomes.'"

King Krama cut in over his wife. "As nimble upon a rock face as they are within the pages of a book or in a contest of wit. They shun the daylight, but we hope to coax them out once the sun has gone down."

"But how fares the Triumvirate?" Anguri asked, refilling the Empress' goblet herself. "And what of our dear kinswoman, Shvedri? Has she recovered?"

Speak my name and I will appear :smalltongue:
It was a bit late when the Sihiri Jambo approached the docks. They had been blown a bit off course, but a strong wind helped them make up lost time. Shvedrishti stood at the bow catching the wind. She had grown a few inches, and her long black hair was now in coiled dreadlocks, but the most dramatic change was her godana. Her once pristine skin was now covered in in ink. The names of the ninety-two mashahidi ringed her arms, and her back had a dramatic image of a green bird smothering an eye of flame centered on the black outline of a man. She'd had it etched in her skin as a constant reminder. On her face however was a smile. It was hard to dwell on the past with bright sunshine on your skin, and a cool breeze through your hair.

Jonas stood at her side. His changes were more drastic. He'd had a growth spurt, and years of training with the ascetic warrior-watafiti had left him lean and strong. He had jumped at the chance to become a shahidi, and done very well. Shvedrishti counted him as a friend, and trusted his opinions above most others despite the more aggressive stance he tended to take on things. There were rumors that there was more between them, but nothing to substantiate them.

As the boat finally came to a stop Shvedri could see the Empress in the distance. Her aura was unmistakable. With a few quick steps Shvedri left the boat and appeared quite suddenly behind Syana. Meanwhile Jonas, who was quite used to her sudden disappearances, got the sailors and watafiti started unloading the ship. He'd catch up with her later.

"Syaaaana, you," She jabbed her playfully in the ribs, "left without me. I had to borrow a boat from cousin Tafari." Shvedrishti looked at the King and Queen of Raaneka, "My ears were burning, were you asking about me?" She smiled and hugged them both. "Have you seen my godana yet?" She twirled to show it off. "The artist did an amazing job."

On the Second Day
A tipsy Raaneki Queen strode out to the field with her husband, her lover, and her son in tow. They were all carrying Jielf sticks. "I hear everybody wants these Glazfell Tears." She emptied a goblet and tossed it over her shoulder. "Anybody wanna play us for 'em?"

Fire Walking: 2
Dice Gaming: 7/8/9
Jielf: 12/7/10/1
Tiles: 15

Link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17349983#post17349983)

"Challenge accepted!" Shvedrishti found a couple volunteers from the ships crew to join her and Jonas.

Fire Walking: 13
Dice Gaming: 11/10/9
Jielf: 9/4/16/12
Tiles: 5

Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17354648#post17354648)

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-23, 12:12 PM

There's a long moment as the Princess just sits there in thought, enraptured by the sports event before her. Or maybe she's just ogling the often scantily-clad athletes. She turns her head to lift the true ice to her face and nearly falls over in surprise when she notices Fabula's presence!

She quickly proceeds to stumble to her feet and then try to salvage the motion with a respectful curtsey.

"High Priestess! Please forgive my surprise, as I was unaware that you would be here."

The High Priestess smiles at her. At her side, Glamora watches intently. She is in her early teens now.
"I am saddened to see your father, my dear friend, not in attendance this day. It does not do a ruler well to alleviate their griefs by never leaving their thrones."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-23, 12:40 PM

As the boat finally came to a stop Shvedri could see the Empress in the distance. Her aura was unmistakable. With a few quick steps Shvedri left the boat and appeared quite suddenly behind Syana. Meanwhile Jonas, who was quite used to her sudden disappearances, got the sailors and watafiti started unloading the ship. He'd catch up with her later.

"Syaaaana, you," She jabbed her playfully in the ribs, "left without me. I had to borrow a boat from cousin Tafari." Shvedrishti looked at the King and Queen of Raaneka, "My ears were burning, were you asking about me?" She smiled and hugged them both. "Have you seen my godana yet?" She twirled to show it off. "The artist did an amazing job."

"Shvedri!" Syana smiled at the appearance of her young, or was it old, friend and hugged her warmly, "I did not know whether you were coming or not, I know the Shahidi Mkuu's time is valuable, these days especially."

"But I see Mwalimu aids in your listening now, yes, the kind King and Queen were just asking of you and I speaking of you, only kind things I assure you," she winked at the other woman, "Though I had not yet told them of your godana regretting my words not capture its beauty. Just as they would not capture describing the taste of this wine," Syana picked up a poured glass and offered it to Shvedri.

"Please sit and join us," the Empress smiled, settling back down on the pillowed seating.

aspi

2014-04-23, 04:23 PM

Imnaya and Ania approached the small palm grove where the AQUA pavillon was situated. They quite enjoyed the feeling of warm sand below their feet, unlike the two servants behind them who carried the heavy chest. Upon entering the pavillon, Imnaya signalled them to put down the chest and looked around tensely. Having located Amber, she cautiously approached the Regina and attempted a curtsy, clearly not something she was even remotely used to "Regina Grant?" she inquired "I am Imnaya an Pajen from Wenyavuk. The chieftain sends his regards and apologies that he could not attend because..." she trails off, then catches her thought "because he hopes to meet you later."

Sweating again, and not just from the heat, she beckons the servants to bring the chest closer. They set the chest down carefully and wait for Imnaya to open it. As the chest top rises, it reveals a set of elaborately shaped sculptures of red and golden amber, not unlike the piece of art that Näiyop had presented at Cantus Sai all those years ago. Turning back to the Regina, Imnaya explained "We have been told that while you possess sources of amber on the islands, you also value it for spiritual reasons. In Wenyavuk, we burn pieces such as these as incense and offerings on holy days."

Meanwhile:
Having tried all the different combinations of fruit juices and Raaneki spirits the refreshment tent could offer, Näiyop wandered around and enjoyed the festivities. Finally, as he walked past one of the tents, he noticed a familiar figure and entered the tent to greet him. "King Athelmark? I thought that was you... I'm pleased that we meet again!" While he talked to the King, the chieftain watched the Jarr's men play dice out of the corner of his eye, clearly intrigued by the game. Waiting for a moment where such a request could not be considered impolite, he finally asked "Dice, hm? Mind if I give it a try?"

While Näiyop might be quite lucky at playing dice, I'm very clearly not :smallwink:
Dice: [12][13][12]
Jielf:[1][5][3][15]
Tiles:[11]
rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17355943&viewfull=1#post17355943)

WaylanderX

2014-04-23, 05:31 PM

Atura and Junior Black were the first to spot a huge block of stone moving along the sand. Someone was riding on it. The partying crowd made room for them to pass through.

Approaching the block, they hailed the pair "Greetings! You must be Griend. Your fame preceedes you. A truer ally of the Hurosha there has never been. And who is with you? "

Grumbling with laughter, Grïend lifted a massive arm in greeting.

"GREETING...PEOPLE OF THE JEWEL......I AM HONORED...YOU KNOW MY NAME."

He looked at Eleljak on his shoulder, who was recovering quite fast, but not quite yet.

"THIS IS...ELELJAK...AMBASSADOR OF ZARGRIM......AND A GOOD FRIEND OF MINE......HE HAS A WEAK...STOMACH THOUGH."

"Oh shut it, you oversized boulder."

Eleljak jokingly said while punching Grïend head, which ha absolutely no effect at all. Shaking off the last waves of nausea, he jumped off Grïend's shoulder with surprising agility.

"Now for a proper introduction. I am Eleljak, son of Eljak, Ambassador of Zargrim. We are send here by her Highness Empress Nyllana of Hurosha, to conduct trade and to check up on some..."

Eleljak looked around to see if nobody was eavesdropping. He leaned in close and whispered:

Cooperative stuff, if you get my meaning, dear people of the Jewel.

A while later....

Grïend and Eleljak were walking around, playing some games, drinking some wine, having a good time, when suddenly, they saw Empress Syana talking a bit away (Ignato Empire).

"Hey, Grïend, you see who I see?"

"YUP...I DO..."

"Whaddaya say we go and greet her. I mean, it would be rude not to greet family right?"

"HEHE...AGREED."

They walked towards her, as sneakily as possible (which isnt sneaky at all because Grïend) and waited until she was finished talking. When she appeared to be done, the strange duo walked up to her. Eleljak bowed deeply, while Grïend made a smaller one, of course to prevent any unnecessary squashings.

"Greeting Empress Syana, we send our regards from your blooded aunt, Empress Nyllana of Hurosha. Are you well?"

At yet another time

Eleljak was snoring loudly from all the wine he has drunk, lying passed out on Grïend's shoulders. It was a stroke of luck that the goblin was smaller than a regular human, or else he would have been forced to bring him all the way to the ship. Which would take away quite some time he could spend here, learning and having fun. Grïend walking among the crowds, searching for interesting people to talk with. At a certain moment, while he was just enjoying the warm sun on his crystaline skin, his attention was pulled at a group of frost berapi (Glazfell Hegemony) who he did not recognise. Wait...frost berapi? In this climate? He had to investigate further. Maybe he could even hammer out something useful for back home. You never know which these kind of things. Grïend stepped towards the group of frost berapi and made a small bow.

"GREETINGS...PEOPLE OF THE LAND OF ICE......I AM GRÏEND...OF THE LANDS OF GWRÎSTÎN......ARE YOU ALSO HAVING FUN?..SO FAR AWAY FROM YOUR HOMELANDS?"

So, about the trade PM. Does Squid for Tears of Yphine still sounds good? And yeah, if you want, you dont have to RP this.

Aedilred

2014-04-23, 05:52 PM

Having tried all the different combinations of fruit juices and Raaneki spirits the refreshment tent could offer, Näiyop wandered around and enjoyed the festivities. Finally, as he walked past one of the tents, he noticed a familiar figure and entered the tent to greet him. "King Athelmark? I thought that was you... I'm pleased that we meet again!"
Athelmark smiles instinctively at a familiar face. "Näiyop! Good to see you again!" He claps Näiyop on the shoulder, then his smile flickers as he recalls the circumstances of their meeting. "How have you been? And how's your sister?"

While he talked to the King, the chieftain watched the Jarr's men play dice out of the corner of his eye, clearly intrigued by the game. Waiting for a moment where such a request could not be considered impolite, he finally asked "Dice, hm? Mind if I give it a try?"
Athelmark waves at the table. "Be my guest - your luck can't be much worse than mine! I think the tiles might be more my style... Are any of your people entering the Jielf games?"

I'll do the rolls for the tiles and Jielf here while I remember. Participation in the fire-walking has been prohibited for some reason...
Tiles: 14
Jielf: 1, 15, 2, 9
Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17356793&viewfull=1#post17356793)

lt_murgen

2014-04-23, 06:45 PM

*SNIP*

Amber smiled warmly, "Greetings! We are honored you made the trip all the way here. We know the coast is warm, so if you find your accomodations uncomfortable, we have arranged a private home in Opal atop the mountain. All you need do is ask."

Upon seeing the sculptures, she marvelled, "Wow. How impressive." She waved someone over. "This is Whisper. She is a Air Shaman of the Wild."

Whisper bent and gently, almost reverently selected a sculpture, holding it to the light and examining it closely. "These are truly remarkable. The skill of selection and cut... truly remarkable." Turning, she bowed very deeply, "You shower us with great honor, Lady Imnaya. It is clear why your father trusts you so.".

QuintonBeck

2014-04-23, 06:52 PM

Grïend and Eleljak were walking around, playing some games, drinking some wine, having a good time, when suddenly, they saw Empress Syana talking a bit away (Ignato Empire).

"Hey, Grïend, you see who I see?"

"YUP...I DO..."

"Whaddaya say we go and greet her. I mean, it would be rude not to greet family right?"

"HEHE...AGREED."

They walked towards her, as sneakily as possible (which isnt sneaky at all because Grïend) and waited until she was finished talking. When she appeared to be done, the strange duo walked up to her. Eleljak bowed deeply, while Grïend made a smaller one, of course to prevent any unnecessary squashings.

"Greeting Empress Syana, we send our regards from your blooded aunt, Empress Nyllana of Hurosha. Are you well?"

"Eleljak, Grïend!" she smiled at the Hurosha delegates, they had already met, a few times in fact, during the Empress and her daughter's trips to visit Sharas at the Academy.

"I am," her hands drew up and she caressed her arms instinctively, still scarred from the fire those years ago, "And my aunt, she does well too I hope?"

lt_murgen

2014-04-23, 06:53 PM

Day 1

*SNIP*

Atura and Junior Black both smiled conspiratorially. Atura leaned in, "I think a tour of the Naval Academy buildings might be arranged. And, of course, you are most welcome to visit your people's private enclave any time you wish."

"You'll have to take an outrigger there, though." Samhell mentioned nastily "The seas aren't too rough between here and there."

Atura gave him a stern look. "These our our gests, Junior Black." Speaking to the duo, "We are not certain of your accomodation needs or dietary requirements ambassadors. If you have any needs, please ask any porter or assistant. They are the ones in the blue hats."

Day 2:
It was a testament to the resiliency of the Islanders that they were up before mid-morning. But they were- some running on the free-running course, others stretching and posturing on the beach as the sun rose. The day promised to be cooler than the day before, with the winds blowing from the north.

Porter’s brought baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetables, coffee, tea, and milk to each cabana and bungalow. Each porter also politely requested that every delegation send at least one official to the Jeweled Cities pavilion just after the noon day bell. Amber Grant, Regina of the Jeweled Cities, has a pair of announcements to make.

Aedilred

2014-04-23, 08:12 PM

Day 2:
It was a testament to the resiliency of the Islanders that they were up before mid-morning. But they were- some running on the free-running course, others stretching and posturing on the beach as the sun rose. The day promised to be cooler than the day before, with the winds blowing from the north.

Porter’s brought baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetables, coffee, tea, and milk to each cabana and bungalow. Each porter also politely requested that every delegation send at least one official to the Jeweled Cities pavilion just after the noon day bell. Amber Grant, Regina of the Jeweled Cities, has a pair of announcements to make.
It had been a great night, with many of the Jarrland delegation staying out almost all night on the beach eating, drinking, and dancing with the locals. Many of them even seemed to have slept outside, taking advantage of the unfamiliar warm weather, although the king had apparently insisted that the senior delegates at least retreat to the official accommodation.

Villem had been supposed to attend the Jewelled Cities' pavilion in the morning on the king's behalf, but when morning arrived he turned out - rather unsurprisingly - to be spectacularly hungover. Athelmark, who according to rumour had drunk his brother-in-law under the table and then carried on with Näiyop, appeared in perfect spirits, however. Not trusting Villem to pay attention to anything beyond his own head and stomach, and with nobody seeming to know where Athelmere was, the king went to the pavilion himself. With a gleeful but quiet sadism, he dragged Villem along with him.

"Wotcher, milady," he nodded to Amber as he entered the pavilion, doffing a hat he hadn't owned the last time she'd seen him. Villem grimaced at her, keeping his mouth clamped shut.

"Aren't you going to greet your hosts and thank her for last night's entertainment?" the king said, with a perverse smile. "Have some fruit, that'll set you right." He proffered a plate he'd assembled from the bundle brought by the porters, which he'd been munching on en route, and Villem's face turned a rather green shade as he was presented with it.

"I must apologise for him," Athelmark explained to anyone listening, "poor chap can't hold his ale, or wine as it turns out. His father would be ashamed of him."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-23, 08:23 PM

Aedilred

2014-04-23, 08:40 PM

She arrived at the pavilion a short time after the Jarrland king and watched bemusedly as he tortured his poor retainer. The Empress was curious what the Regina had to announce and her interest showed on her face as she looked about her surroundings to try and spot anything unusual.
Athelmark had missed Syana the night before, but spotted her observing him, and greeted her silently with a solemn nod and doff of the hat. An elbow to the ribs prompted a surprised Villem to do the same. He held her gaze for a moment, then turned his attention back to Amber, as if to say "we'll speak when this is done."

lt_murgen

2014-04-23, 08:46 PM

*snip*

Iaz, Ambers husband (her man, as she calls him- Islanders didn't have a formal marriage ceremony) wasn't engaged in anything at the moment, so he stepped in to help.

"Wait right there!" He exclaimed cheerfully. He disappeared into the back of the pavillion, near the hammocks, returning in a few moments. "Here, drink this. It is a traditional Islander hangover cure."

Villem took the cup, and glanced down at it. A dark green thick... something occupied the cup, appearing simultaneously greasy and chunky. "Sea kelp, orange juice, diced oyester and bacon, with a single ground parrot egg and a dash of spicy tarrow root." Iaz said in response to the unanswered question.

The Meeting:

“Thank you all for taking time out of your busy partying schedules to join us” Amber said to mixed laughter. She was dressed a bit more demurely than she was the day before. The entire Senior Council was present as well, along with several Quill members of their Elder Council. “Honestly, this was meant to be a celebration of our fifty years of good fortune as a united dominion. But we have had two strokes of good fortune, and wish to share it with all of you.”

“My father Jonas built our Naval Academy over the course of several decades. He staffed it with the best navigators, shipwrights, astronomers and cartographers he could find. It has been in operation for better than two decades now. A generation of talented sailors has graduated from the Academy. “

“Several of the brightest have formed a formal Pilots Guild, to provide standards and training for all who sail the seas. They are willing to establish guilds in any realm that agrees to exchange of technical experts in other areas. They do this with our full support, and we wish them the best of luck.” Amber gestured to the Raaneki delegation. “I offer to the Raaneki, our close friends, our cousins in heart if not in blood, the opportunity to open the first Pilots guild. Our gift to you.”

I now have 2 stacks of PILOTS resource. They are similar to the inventors resource of Guilder and the Architects resource of the Triumvarate. I would like to trade now, or in the future, for similar technical experts. Like architects and inventors, it is currently a fluff resource for now, but may have the potential to be needed for something later.

Amber stepped forward, and the Senior Council rose to follow her. “If you would all follow me, I have something else I would like to show you.”

The crowd exited the back of the pavillion and followed a well carved path through a small copse of trees to another stretch of beach. This was unoccupied, though several porters could be seen keeping people at bay. Amber spoke again.

“The Quill people, our people of the land, have for years sought to put their tar resources to good use. It is an excellent water-proofing agent, as many of you know. But recently they discovered that, when combined with a lighter oil, such as kelp-olive, it turns into something completely different.”

Amber gestured to a Quill man standing patiently, bow in hand, near a flaming torch. He lit the arrow and with a gentle pull, sent it arching out, over the sand a hundred yards or so from the gathered crowd. It stuck in the sand and, for a moment, nothing happened. The with a mighty woosh! Flames leapt away from the arrow in an arc towards the water. In seconds, several hundred yards of beach burned, roiling heat waves distorting the sky.

“Pitch” Amber said. “A thick liquid that will pool on just about any ground, staying volatile for weeks. Harmless, until set on fire. Then it burns with a fierce heat for hours, days even, if the pools are deep enough. It can be brewed in weeks and deployed in days. A simple weapon, impractical in offense but deadly in defense against invasion.”

We of the Jeweled Cities have always been committed to peace. When the Quill joined us, they saw the wisdom of our commitment. Pitch is the culmination of our ideals. That is why we offer the knowledge of its use and preparation to anyone willing to share similar knowledge with us, now or in the future.”

I’ve already talked to Morph, and he agrees that this is a technology that grants +2 to military rolls for defending nations only. Thus, it can be used to defend, but not attack. It takes both tar and some kind of oil resource to create.
I am willing to trade the technology to anyone willing to give me matching tech. The resources do not necessarily need to go with. For example, I’d take mithril forging tech or berunda riding tech for it even though I don’t have access to mithril or berunda resources. I'll even take a promise for a technology to be named later.
I also have three stacks of tar and oil resources to trade for matching resources for the given tech, if that tickles your fancy.

QuintonBeck

2014-04-23, 08:56 PM

*Snip*

((OOC for speed, architects for pilots? What about Plate Armor tech for a stack of tar and the Pitch tech?))

SamBurke

2014-04-23, 09:26 PM

I’ve already talked to Morph, and he agrees that this is a technology that grants +2 to military rolls for defending nations only. Thus, it can be used to defend, but not attack. It takes both tar and some kind of oil resource to create.
I am willing to trade the technology to anyone willing to give me matching tech. The resources do not necessarily need to go with. For example, I’d take mithril forging tech or berunda riding tech for it even though I don’t have access to mithril or berunda resources. I'll even take a promise for a technology to be named later.
I also have three stacks of tar and oil resources to trade for matching resources for the given tech, if that tickles your fancy.

I have berunda tech, so that works. Berundas for Pitch?

Aedilred

2014-04-23, 09:56 PM

Iaz, Ambers husband (her man, as she calls him- Islanders didn't have a formal marriage ceremony) wasn't engaged in anything at the moment, so he stepped in to help.

"Wait right there!" He exclaimed cheerfully. He disappeared into the back of the pavillion, near the hammocks, returning in a few moments. "Here, drink this. It is a traditional Islander hangover cure."

Villem took the cup, and glanced down at it. A dark green thick... something occupied the cup, appearing simultaneously greasy and chunky. "Sea kelp, orange juice, diced oyester and bacon, with a single ground parrot egg and a dash of spicy tarrow root." Iaz said in response to the unanswered question.
After regarding it dubiously for a moment, he shrugged and drank it.

"Actually, I do feel a bit better," he said, after a moment. "Thanks, old chap."

Amber gestured to a Quill man standing patiently, bow in hand, near a flaming torch. He lit the arrow and with a gentle pull, sent it arching out, over the sand a hundred yards or so from the gathered crowd. It stuck in the sand and, for a moment, nothing happened. The with a mighty woosh! Flames leapt away from the arrow in an arc towards the water. In seconds, several hundred yards of beach burned, roiling heat waves distorting the sky.
Athelmark watched in something like horror as the beach went up in flames. In a slight reversal of roles, it was Villem who had to steady him, with a hand on the shoulder. Still, the king had to accept the display was impressive, despite his wide-eyed expression.

I'd be very interested in the pilots, but as yet I have no ocean-going ships, and not much left to trade. I may introduce a new resource this turn in which case I'd be happy to trade that for the pilots, though, in anticipation of getting some ships later. The royal family have become a bit suspicious of flammable substances, though, so we'll probably give the pitch a miss...

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-23, 11:57 PM

Day One

*snip*

"You should talk to my son, Bapa!" King Krama beamed when Athelmark had finished. "He lived among the Na'nuk of the frozen north for a few years. He hunted tigers! These old bones are jealous."

The Raaneki King stood and stretched. His white-dyed skin and hard red tattoos made him appear much fiercer than he seemed to be. "As for reading, it is a noble dream! We Raaneki have always known to read," he gestured to a Raaneki nearby, whose body was covered in swirling script, "we carry our words with us! Of course, it is known that flesh does not last as long as parchment. We can read, but know little of history." At least, they had once known little of history. Their new, diminutive friends were about to change that.

"But enough of the present. Let us think to the future! You say you want to explore the world, but have no ships? Our kin in Qarimos are the finest sailors upon the Lyrian Ocean, thanks to their ships. These same vessels could be yours..." he let the question remain unvoiced. Lomadi his sister, may she rest in peace, had a talent for negotiation. Krama, on the other hand, knew nothing of it whatsoever. Better to remain silent, and see what comes.

I would love to trade Qarimosi Ships & Ocean-Faring Tech for Jarrland Dyes. :smallsmile:

*snip*

The wine haze had descended upon Queen Anguri. She could feel the ancestors pulling at her thoughts. "It is a marvel. Much like your imperial armor." She was about to continue, when Shvedri popped into the bungalow.

*snip*

The Queen practically squealed when Shvedri came into the room. "Your godana," she said excitedly, turning the young woman around to appreciate every detail. "Beautiful." She didn't always understand why her brother had insisted that Raaneka convert to Radurja. Her gods, her exemplars, were her mother and father, and that was that. Looking at Shvedri, though, so alive and driven, made Anguri understand in a way she hadn't before. This woman was Raaneki, and she had gained glory at least equal to Aditi and Devdan themselves. It was to be honored.

The party of imperials and Raaneki chatted until there was no more to say, when some of them went to stroll along the beach and others fell asleep. The hours carried on until the sun was low and the shadows were long. In time, Queen and King sought out Shvedri and her retinue, this time with mysterious new companions.

They looked like children, and stood No taller than a man's hip. They were dressed in robes of black silk despite the heat, and wore veils over their faces. "Forgive us," the King said as they all approached. "But we have new friends, and would delight to introduce you. These are the Deep Scholars Deza--" he faltered, "erm, Dezarajica--"

"I am known as Dezarajacarita," came the impatient reply of one of the small figures (who was probably a man... it was hard to tell with such a high voice) "and this is my esteemed colleague, Deep Scholar Anagatavati. We understand the surface folk have lost their facility for language, so you may call us Deza and Ana if it is preferable to you. We come from the realm of Ayavazarmanbuh-ja, long-sundered from the surface world and from our ancient allies," he gestured to the Raaneki, almost with an air of disappointment. "We are most pleased to meet you, though the heat and light in this place are quite too much for our taste." The small man's veiled face turned skyward, then to Ana.

"Four hours until Caradhanavabuh-ja reaches his zenith," she replied excitedly before Deza had a chance to speak.

King Krama laughed. "Here we are, in the midst of the grandest revelry in history, and these little gnomes can only find excitement in the rising of the moon. What a world is this!"

Day Two

The Meeting:
*snip*

The Raaneki word for "hangover" was the same as their word for "death." It was a rare but inevitable tragedy in their lives. That morning, though, they woke rather with a greater taste for wine. Yesterday had been supreme revelry, and the festivities had not yet even begun!

They attend the meeting and graciously accepted the gift from Amber and the rest of their Islander cousins. The Qarimosi among them in particular cheered the loudest when they realized they would finally join their skills with the finest sailors of the Central Sea. Their music that day was more exquisite than ever... until they fell to the distractions of wine and romance... which happened shortly before the two O'clock bell.

Queen and King watched with fascination as the beach was transformed into a fiery hellscape. "Think of it," the Queen said to her husband. "Our berundas."

The King stared at the scene, then shook his head. "I am glad to see that our cousins may better defend themselves, but our berundas need not be any fiercer or more glorious, my love."

Aedilred

2014-04-24, 12:56 AM

"But enough of the present. Let us think to the future! You say you want to explore the world, but have no ships? Our kin in Qarimos are the finest sailors upon the Lyrian Ocean, thanks to their ships. These same vessels could be yours..." he let the question remain unvoiced. Lomadi his sister, may she rest in peace, had a talent for negotiation. Krama, on the other hand, knew nothing of it whatsoever. Better to remain silent, and see what comes.
Villem seems to have perked up, thanks to Iaz's hangover cure and the mention of seafaring. "One day, I should like for my clan to challenge you for that honour," he says. "But even I could not dispute your claim with a straight face. We are fine sailors for all we can do with the vessels we have, but in truth they're little more than boats, and don't do well out of sight of land."

Athelmark smiles. "I am a highland man myself, and grew up far from the sea. My talents lie in other directions, I fear. I have no sea legs, don't know one end of a boat from another, and struggle not to get seasick.

"My son, though, wherever he is, ah, he is half Horwik and takes after his grandfather. That fat old pirate!" He laughs, and Villem also grins at this description of his father. "He's fallen in love with an island girl and that tells you all you need to know. I will never be a great seafarer, but Athelmere, young Tempest, aye, and Villem here, given the ships they could accomplish marvels, I think."

I would love to trade Qarimosi Ships & Ocean-Faring Tech for Jarrland Dyes. :smallsmile:

Consider it done! I still have a stack of dyes left to trade. It seems like an unequal deal, but I'm not going to complain!

lt_murgen

2014-04-24, 11:18 AM

((OOC for speed, architects for pilots? What about Plate Armor tech for a stack of tar and the Pitch tech?))
sold.

[SPOILER=Tech Trade]
I have berunda tech, so that works. Berundas for Pitch?

sold

I'd be very interested in the pilots, but as yet I have no ocean-going ships, and not much left to trade. I may introduce a new resource this turn in which case I'd be happy to trade that for the pilots, though, in anticipation of getting some ships later. The royal family have become a bit suspicious of flammable substances, though, so we'll probably give the pitch a miss...

I suspect Ocean Going Ships technology is a reasonable dowry. It takes 6 years to run people through the Naval Academy, so I'll post that I am giving you OCean Going Ships in the year 386 (so next round). In exchange for a marriage this round.
Alternatively, you can take Zap's offer. He likes dyes. In which case, you just get Tempest.

Day One
Queen and King sought out Shvedri and her retinue, this time with mysterious new companions.....

A passing porter offers "If the smaller gentlefolk are uncomfortable on the beach, arrangements can be made in the city of Opal." He guestured towards the top of the extinct volcano, towering 10,000 feet above. "It is considerably cooler and there are many rooms, even entire buildings, built into the sides of the mountain. From there, it is but a small hike to our observatory, where moon watching is at its best." The young woman was clearly trying to be helpful to the strangers.

QuintonBeck

2014-04-24, 11:29 AM

sold.

I'll edit it into my actions then. Also, barring a change to the wonky rules we'll be needing to "gift" our specialists in this exchange. I'll "gift" you architects and you "gift" me PILOTS

Aedilred

2014-04-24, 12:22 PM

I suspect Ocean Going Ships technology is a reasonable dowry. It takes 6 years to run people through the Naval Academy, so I'll post that I am giving you OCean Going Ships in the year 386 (so next round). In exchange for a marriage this round.
Alternatively, you can take Zap's offer. He likes dyes. In which case, you just get Tempest.

Well, either way, it would be great to get my hands on the ships. It would be nice to get them this round since I could then start using them for exploration next round, but that would still be at least a round earlier than I was anticipating anyway.

At any rate I'll happily accept the trade offer of Qarimos ships for dyes and if Zap wants to throw in the technology as well I'll snap that up; otherwise I'd be happy with it to arrive next round as a dowry from the Jewelled Cities (n.b. 386 is this round though, not next).

BladeofObliviom

2014-04-24, 12:31 PM

The High Priestess smiles at her. At her side, Glamora watches intently. She is in her early teens now.
"I am saddened to see your father, my dear friend, not in attendance this day. It does not do a ruler well to alleviate their griefs by never leaving their thrones."

Ancir nods in agreement, and takes a moment to smile and wave to Glamora before answering her adoptive mother.

"You're not wrong: Father did not take my brother's death well, and every time his reflection shines at him in a pane of ice he can see the scars that he bears from the same accident. He has taken to isolation, wearing half of an Stag's mask to cover his face, and leaving Saenord-Konig only once every five days to lay a new stone upon my brother's cairn. He still rules the land, but speaks only to advisers and reports. He practices with arms, but with cold determination rather than enthusiasm. It is not healthy, but there is naught I can do."

At yet another time

Eleljak was snoring loudly from all the wine he has drunk, lying passed out on Grïend's shoulders. It was a stroke of luck that the goblin was smaller than a regular human, or else he would have been forced to bring him all the way to the ship. Which would take away quite some time he could spend here, learning and having fun. Grïend walking among the crowds, searching for interesting people to talk with. At a certain moment, while he was just enjoying the warm sun on his crystaline skin, his attention was pulled at a group of frost berapi (Glazfell Hegemony) who he did not recognise. Wait...frost berapi? In this climate? He had to investigate further. Maybe he could even hammer out something useful for back home. You never know which these kind of things. Grïend stepped towards the group of frost berapi and made a small bow.

"GREETINGS...PEOPLE OF THE LAND OF ICE......I AM GRÏEND...OF THE LANDS OF GWRÎSTÎN......ARE YOU ALSO HAVING FUN?..SO FAR AWAY FROM YOUR HOMELANDS?"

So, about the trade PM. Does Squid for Tears of Yphine still sounds good? And yeah, if you want, you dont have to RP this.

Princess Ancir curtseys to the foreign dignitary, having already been standing for some time at this point.

"Greetings to you as well, Griend of Gwristin."

Her poise is elegant, at least, and she manages to not mangle the names too badly outside of her accent.

"I will grant that it is unusual to be in such a warm place, but I am not overly uncomfortable here. I have been merely spending my time watching the Jielf players: There is a strange harmony to their motions, at least in the better teams, and I find myself trying to analyze their movements and strategies. They are far more complex than they look initially."

She proceeds to point at one of the players mid-swing.

"See how that one twists the club even as they swing? It puts a spin on the ball, and curves it to the right while sailing through the air. It is subtle, but sometimes the subtle motions are important."

I'm still fine with that, though it might be best not to rp out the actual trade deal for the sake of my sanity alone. :smalltongue:

HisHolyAngel

2014-04-24, 12:42 PM

Fabula and Ancir

Fabula sighs.
"It is not that I do not understand the loss he has faced, but I worry for him. He has been a faithful friend, and I have alway trusted is council, and I think that now it is time for him to hear mine. I shall write him a letter at once.
Glamora makes some hand gestures, and Fabula nods, turning back to Ancir.
"My daughter has brought a gift for your father, in her own small attempt to lighten the weight on his heart."
Glamora pulls out a lovely crown of Pegasus feathers, some white some black, and presents it to Ancir.

zabbarot

2014-04-24, 01:55 PM

I am suddenly disappointed that you have neither bananas nor pineapple as a resource. I will pretend they grow here regardless though.

Night One

The Queen practically squealed when Shvedri came into the room. "Your godana," she said excitedly, turning the young woman around to appreciate every detail. "Beautiful." She didn't always understand why her brother had insisted that Raaneka convert to Radurja. Her gods, her exemplars, were her mother and father, and that was that. Looking at Shvedri, though, so alive and driven, made Anguri understand in a way she hadn't before. This woman was Raaneki, and she had gained glory at least equal to Aditi and Devdan themselves. It was to be honored.

The party of imperials and Raaneki chatted until there was no more to say, when some of them went to stroll along the beach and others fell asleep. The hours carried on until the sun was low and the shadows were long. In time, Queen and King sought out Shvedri and her retinue, this time with mysterious new companions.

They looked like children, and stood No taller than a man's hip. They were dressed in robes of black silk despite the heat, and wore veils over their faces. "Forgive us," the King said as they all approached. "But we have new friends, and would delight to introduce you. These are the Deep Scholars Deza--" he faltered, "erm, Dezarajica--"

"I am known as Dezarajacarita," came the impatient reply of one of the small figures (who was probably a man... it was hard to tell with such a high voice) "and this is my esteemed colleague, Deep Scholar Anagatavati. We understand the surface folk have lost their facility for language, so you may call us Deza and Ana if it is preferable to you. We come from the realm of Ayavazarmanbuh-ja, long-sundered from the surface world and from our ancient allies," he gestured to the Raaneki, almost with an air of disappointment. "We are most pleased to meet you, though the heat and light in this place are quite too much for our taste." The small man's veiled face turned skyward, then to Ana.

"Four hours until Caradhanavabuh-ja reaches his zenith," she replied excitedly before Deza had a chance to speak.

King Krama laughed. "Here we are, in the midst of the grandest revelry in history, and these little gnomes can only find excitement in the rising of the moon. What a world is this!"

Shvedri and Jonas sat around a small fire with a couple natives and Genivanan sailors. They were singing songs and roasting bananas in the fire before the Raaneki approached. "Forgiveness is not needed. You are always welcome. Would you like a banana?" Shvedrishti reached into the fire and pulled out a few bananas to cool. The sailors had been enjoying this trick for the last hour or so, but applauded again anyways.

They invited the Raaneki to sit, but the gnomes were the ones holding their attention. "Deza-ra-jaca-rita," she sounded it out slowly, waiting to see if she'd be corrected. Shvedrishti wasn't the simplest name either, though the gnomes definitely had her beat. "So your lands are beneath Raaneka? I'm almost surprised you know enough about the moon to track it's zenith. Do you have a way to observe the celestial bodies from underground?"

I love the gnomes names. It mashes the weird incredalong name trope with the cultural flavor of the Raaneki. I approve.

Anyways, Scholars for Osuro. Yes?

SamBurke

2014-04-24, 04:09 PM

Just to check, our trade is still a go?

AOK! I've edited Pitch/Berundas into my actions.

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-24, 04:33 PM

*snip*

"Then we are in good company! I barely know how to swim!" Krama's nephew, Prince Jacob, was a marvelous sailor. Admiral of the Qarimosi fleets, in fact. "As for your son, I have loved many Islander women myself. He has good taste!" They while away the hours with fine talk, Heartwine and dice gambling. Krama had never diced before, and it showed.

*snip*

The gnomes turned their veils toward the volcano, and seemed to visibly shudder. "We have heard much of Islander hospitality and we thank you," Deza returned, "but we are not accustomed to heights. And you guess rightly: we are more accustomed to cooler temperatures, but our greatest discomfort here has been the light. It is our blessing and our curse," almost imperceptibly, the veil turned toward the sunset, "but it will not trouble us for much longer."

Raaneka is generous (and they love dyes), so I have no problem giving both the ships and the ocean-faring tech in exchange for dyes. That said, I wouldn't want to deny the Islanders a chance to give a tangible dowry (rather than a fluff-only one). murgen, I'll let you make the decision, and will take the appropriate action after.

Night One
*snip*

I love the gnomes names. It mashes the weird incredalong name trope with the cultural flavor of the Raaneki. I approve.

Anyways, Scholars for Osuro. Yes?

The gnomes spoke little until the sun had set. Once darkness fell, the gnomes removed their veils to reveal wrinkled, pure white faces with stippled purple tattoos. They sat near the campfire, but remained in the shadows of their larger companions. They seemed to absorb their surroundings like coral sponges, but mostly they were fascinated with the fire. "Astraniz," Dezarajacarita gasped when Shvedrishti reached into the flames. "You have varabhicaryanta?" He searched for the word. "Magic?"

After her answer, he smiled politely as she tried to pronounce his name. "Your pronounciation would be better if it were 'Deza-raja-carita,' but I applaud your efforts. My father, may his wisdom guide me still, was a noble amongst we Dhanazarmanoms. I am a historian, so my name means 'history of native princes.'" He seemed most at home observing his surroundings, but it was clear he delighted in giving instruction as well. "My colleague, Anagatavati, hails from a family who had come into prosperity only just before she was born. Her name is harder to translate, but means something akin to 'directed towards the future.' We were elected members of the Royal Council for our complimentary perspectives." He smiled knowingly. "Unless I am much mistaken, I believe your own name means 'bright eyes,' correct? I can see why, Shahidi Mkuu."

Anagatavati perked up as soon as Shvedri made mention of the heavens. "In Ayavazarmanbuh-ja--" she stopped herself and seemed to blush. "--Ayava, as it is known on the surface world, our home of Grand Delving is carved from the shores of a great underground sea. When the sun shines so brightly on the surface, our own world is lit by the night sky, which travels under Telluris and shines through the waters of the Sea of Sunken Stars." Her speech was more careful than Deza's, but she made every effort to translate her Ayavan thoughts into the common tongue.

Thanks! Raaneki is based on Hindi, so it felt only right that Ayavan come from Sanskrit. Their long names were inspired by Entish... I imagine them all to be long-winded stewards of wisdom at heart.

As for the trade: gaining osuro will fulfill my hopes and dreams since you invented it. I am more than happy with this trade. :smallbiggrin:

WaylanderX

2014-04-24, 05:31 PM

Day 1

Atura and Junior Black both smiled conspiratorially. Atura leaned in, "I think a tour of the Naval Academy buildings might be arranged. And, of course, you are most welcome to visit your people's private enclave any time you wish."

"You'll have to take an outrigger there, though." Samhell mentioned nastily "The seas aren't too rough between here and there."

Atura gave him a stern look. "These our our guests, Junior Black." Speaking to the duo, "We are not certain of your accomodation needs or dietary requirements ambassadors. If you have any needs, please ask any porter or assistant. They are the ones in the blue hats."

"A tour would be mighty dandy, sir, if you would kindly tell us where to arrange it. After that, will will take the outrigger to check on the Hurosha people living and working here."

Eleljak responded, glad that the Islanders he met appearently knew about It.

"Would the outrigger he strong enough to transport Grïend though, I wonder?"

"Eleljak, Grïend!" she smiled at the Hurosha delegates, they had already met, a few times in fact, during the Empress and her daughter's trips to visit Sharas at the Academy.

"I am," her hands drew up and she caressed her arms instinctively, still scarred from the fire those years ago, "And my aunt, she does well too I hope?"

"SHE IS DOING...QUITE ALRIGHT...EMPRESS." Grïend replying in his heavy, graveling voice.

"UNFORTUNATELY SHE...COULD NOT BE...HERE." He continued. "SHE IS PREPARING KOKUEI...FOR THE BATTLE...OF WITS......WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE...SOON."

At that point, Eleljak took over, managing to overtake Grïends slow talking with his own, more fast paced language.

"I am sure that will be fine though. Kokuei is a fine, strong and trustworthy woman. Even more so after her husband gave his life to safe all of ours. She will not fail, she will not allow herself to."

Eleljak paused with a small *ahem*, changing the subject:

"How is the formation of the union between you and your southern neighbours going, milady? I can imagine that the happenings from those years ago put some delay on it."

Princess Ancir curtseys to the foreign dignitary, having already been standing for some time at this point.

"Greetings to you as well, Griend of Gwristin."

Her poise is elegant, at least, and she manages to not mangle the names too badly outside of her accent.

"I will grant that it is unusual to be in such a warm place, but I am not overly uncomfortable here. I have been merely spending my time watching the Jielf players: There is a strange harmony to their motions, at least in the better teams, and I find myself trying to analyze their movements and strategies. They are far more complex than they look initially."

She proceeds to point at one of the players mid-swing.

"See how that one twists the club even as they swing? It puts a spin on the ball, and curves it to the right while sailing through the air. It is subtle, but sometimes the subtle motions are important."

"INDEED...IT IS INDEED...QUITE SPEAKING OF...THEIR PROWESS......THEIR CONTROL...IS IMPRESSIVE TO SAY...THE LEAST."

Grïend motioned with his arm, trying to imitate the movements, but alas, his size was just to large for such subtle motions. He gave up, turning his attention back to Ancir.

"I REMEMBER...THAT MY EMPRESS...SEND YOU A LETTER...ABOUT TRADE......COULD I BRING HER...BACK A MESSAGE?"

I'll do it like this, getting this out of the way. Squid for Tears of Yphine it is. Putting it into my actions.

Aedilred

2014-04-24, 08:30 PM

Since the timeline's already a bit distorted, I'll introduce a bit of a bubble.

After the pitch demonstration, which had shaken him more than he wished to let on to the other delegates, Athelmark finally showed mercy and released Villem to go and have a lie down - and possibly drink a bucket of coffee, with not a little gratitude for the steadying hand his brother-in-law had provided. It was just as well Mere hadn't been there, in retrospect.

He wandered over to the tiles tent and played a couple of rounds to steady his nerves, leaving the other delegates to approach Amber and discuss trading the pitch. It was a marvellous achievement to have created it, no doubt, and he could see the merits of its application, but all the same... He shuddered to imagine being caught in that sort of firestorm. He'd talk to Amber later, more privately.
14 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17363782&viewfull=1#post17363782), 16

Having done, he thought, rather well, and in somewhat better spirits, he made his way back to where he could find who he was looking for. Eventually he spotted her, and approached Empress Syana.

"Milady Empress," he said, with a half-bow, and a tug on his hat - which, while undoubtedly practical at keeping the sun off, seemed to suit him less well each successive time anyone saw it. "How did you enjoy the demonstration?" He gave a grave smile and extended an arm, wordlessly inviting her to walk with him along the beach.

BladeofObliviom

2014-04-24, 08:54 PM

Fabula and Ancir

Fabula sighs.
"It is not that I do not understand the loss he has faced, but I worry for him. He has been a faithful friend, and I have always trusted his counsel, and I think that now it is time for him to hear mine. I shall write him a letter at once.
Glamora makes some hand gestures, and Fabula nods, turning back to Ancir.
"My daughter has brought a gift for your father, in her own small attempt to lighten the weight on his heart."
Glamora pulls out a lovely crown of Pegasus feathers, some white some black, and presents it to Ancir.

Fabula and Ancir

Ancir smiles, accepting the crown of feathers into her hands.

"It's beautiful, Glamora. Thank you. And you as well, High Priestess: I know not if mere words could raise him from his fugue, but if anyone could it would be you. A shroud of silence has fallen over Saenord-Konig, and simple wanderlust was not the only reason I asked to be sent as emissary."

Just to check, our trade is still a go?

Yeah, unless you want to change something. No war means no interruption in service. :smallwink:

"INDEED...IT IS INDEED...QUITE SPEAKING OF...THEIR PROWESS......THEIR CONTROL...IS IMPRESSIVE TO SAY...THE LEAST."

Grïend motioned with his arm, trying to imitate the movements, but alas, his size was just to large for such subtle motions. He gave up, turning his attention back to Ancir.

"I REMEMBER...THAT MY EMPRESS...SEND YOU A LETTER...ABOUT TRADE......COULD I BRING HER...BACK A MESSAGE?"

I'll do it like this, getting this out of the way. Squid for Tears of Yphine it is. Putting it into my actions.

[Hurosha and the Glazfell]

Works for me. I've done so as well.

The princess nods in agreement with the mineral-man's first statement, wordlessly sounding out "prowess" with her lips absentmindedly. She returns to attention when he addresses her more directly, however, and holds out one hand.

"Of course. May I?"

Assuming that the message is handed over, she spends a moment reading over it and checking for any obvious problems.

"Let's see...ten bushels per year...exchange of goods...rate of ten units per standard trade ingot..."

She proceeds to hand the proposal back to the menhîrin in question.

"Such a bargain can only prove mutually beneficial. As I currently act in the capacity of an emissary, tell your Empress that I have the authority to accept her offer and do."

Logic

2014-04-24, 08:57 PM

Amber bowed deeply, thanking the Princess for attending. "Things are well, your Grace. Trade and the spirits of nature have been kind to us. And you? How fares Celero?"
"Celero fares better than her Queen. I am to assume to role of Regent soon. I regret I come here in more of an official capacity, and not as carefree party-goer, like most of your other guests." Amalia's words were slow, and almost sad.

After her discussion with the Raaneki Syana had been enjoying watching her daughter play out on the beaches with some other young people, the approach of the Celerese man drew her attention away from them and she smiled at his approach. A smile that faded at his words.

A few chairs, seemingly designed for the beach, sat in the sand and she lowered herself on to one.

"Lord Rion, I hope it is not dire news," she said, her voice concerned.
"I'm afraid it is not the best of news. First, My sister, the Queen Yasira, is ill. She has made the arrangements for her daughter, Amalia Cordelia, married to that Ashenina, the regent." Rion almost seethed at the mention of the husband of his niece.

"Further, Princess Amalia Cordelia, soon to be Crown Regent, has declared her intentions to assist Cassia, of Bordeux, against the Salterri." added Lord Rion.

"And finally, she has opened discussions about marrying her son, Heir to the Crown of Celero, to one of the Borduesi royal line." he finished, chest heaving as though he had worked himself to near exhaustion.

"I do sincerely hope I have not lain too much information upon you. But my sister is so glad to have her daughter back, that she is overlooking what Amalia may to to the good of our realm and the peace we have built with out allies." He said apologetically.

Lord Rion knelt, and took the Empress's hand into his. "Were it up to me, the son of Amalia would marry into the Triumvirate, preferably the Ignatos, or of the Treatise Elemental. My wife Leona would be proud to see more of her kinsmen in the royal line."

At one point during the party, Queen and King happened upon Amalia and the Lord Rion. "Hail, Celerese!" they said, wearing more than they had all week (which still left very little to the imagination). "How fares the Bereginian Reconstruction?" Krama seemed most curious. "I have heard the Raaneki spent their first wages on furs, to keep warm in the chilly North!"

Lord Rion was doing his best to not appear rude, but it was all he could do to not stare are the bare skin of the Raaneki before him. His niece, Princess Amalia noticed his glances fairly quickly, and did her best to distract not only her uncle's gaze, but also the attention of the Raaneki royal couple from what might just turn out to be an international incident.
"It goes just as well as we have hoped!" said Amalia.

"What you hear is true. Your countrymen buy so many furs in the foot-hills shortly after they arrive in Celero, it is a wonder we still have stalking-cats to hunt there!" Amalia said with a laugh.

"Many of your fellows attempt to make it to the warmer coast from time to time. Though I suspect with the way they wear furs in our ports, they will want to take them home with them and start a fashion statement of fainting." added Lord Rion.

QuintonBeck

2014-04-24, 09:31 PM

[COLOR="#006400"]"SHE IS DOING...QUITE ALRIGHT...EMPRESS." Grïend replying in his heavy, graveling voice.

"UNFORTUNATELY SHE...COULD NOT BE...HERE." He continued. "SHE IS PREPARING KOKUEI...FOR THE BATTLE...OF WITS......WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE...SOON."

At that point, Eleljak took over, managing to overtake Grïends slow talking with his own, more fast paced language.

"I am sure that will be fine though. Kokuei is a fine, strong and trustworthy woman. Even more so after her husband gave his life to safe all of ours. She will not fail, she will not allow herself to."

Eleljak paused with a small *ahem*, changing the subject:

"How is the formation of the union between you and your southern neighbours going, milady? I can imagine that the happenings from those years ago put some delay on it."

Thankfully nothing too delaying, though the College in Genivana is still recovering, it seems however that the plans to bring the Triumvirate completely together shall be finished in the next ten years."

It seemed a long time, but considering the time they'd waited so far and how time flew while reigning Syana was as excited at the prospect as if it were tomorrow.

"And the formation of the official Kingdom? It goes well I hope? Long have we in Ignato lands hoped to see Hurosha bring complete unity to it's lands."

Having done, he thought, rather well, and in somewhat better spirits, he made his way back to where he could find who he was looking for. Eventually he spotted her, and approached Empress Syana.

"Milady Empress," he said, with a half-bow, and a tug on his hat - which, while undoubtedly practical at keeping the sun off, seemed to suit him less well each successive time anyone saw it. "How did you enjoy the demonstration?" He gave a grave smile and extended an arm, wordlessly inviting her to walk with him along the beach.

Syana smiled at the southern man, hooking her arm into his. Despite herself she couldn't help but find the man charming and his age seemed forgotten as she walked with him down the beach as she would a man half his age, that is to say, a man her own age.

"It was...intriguing. The technology is undoubtedly useful and I shall see that I obtain it, but it was somewhat disconcerting after the events at the Ball," she paused for a moment,

"I never got to say it to your face," she turned and looked the Jarr King in the eyes, "I'm sorry for your loss and for my part in it."

[COLOR="#40E0D0"]"I'm afraid it is not the best of news. First, My sister, the Queen Yasira, is ill. She has made the arrangements for her daughter, Amalia Cordelia, married to that Ashenina, the regent." Rion almost seethed at the mention of the husband of his niece.

"Further, Princess Amalia Cordelia, soon to be Crown Regent, has declared her intentions to assist Cassia, of Bordeux, against the Salterri." added Lord Rion.

"And finally, she has opened discussions about marrying her son, Heir to the Crown of Celero, to one of the Borduesi royal line." he finished, chest heaving as though he had worked himself to near exhaustion.

"I do sincerely hope I have not lain too much information upon you. But my sister is so glad to have her daughter back, that she is overlooking what Amalia may to to the good of our realm and the peace we have built with out allies." He said apologetically.

Lord Rion knelt, and took the Empress's hand into his. "Were it up to me, the son of Amalia would marry into the Triumvirate, preferably the Ignatos, or of the Treatise Elemental. My wife Leona would be proud to see more of her kinsmen in the royal line."

"The Ashenians are an often cold people, but not incapable of compassion. MY husband taught me that," she stopped herself there, swallowing to keep herself controlled.

"Lord Rion, do not think I would hold it against Celero for bonding with the Union," she smiled at him, "For as much as I would wish to see our own lands united by blood, it is an important and healthy deterrent and step in the path to peace that our bloods might mix with the Ashenians and Bordeusi."

"My own brother is set now to marry who has become the heir of the Concordat and I could not be happier to know that Ignato blood alongside that of the Bordeusi will eventually rule within Bordeux."

She gripped Celerese man's hand reassuringly, "But if you wish my own young heir," Syana looked out towards the beach, "Is yet still un-betrothed, though I wouldn't desire she marry into any succession too close to the Celerese throne as she must be free to take up rule her own. As well, my young son who just one month past saw his sixth birthday will one day need a wife."

Mira is Syana's first born and heir, she's 16 right now in the year 387; Korath II is 6 in the same year; Your family tree doesn't have any young people on it so I figure you can add them in if you want haha; Also, our trade/gift agreements are in my actions post if you want to look there

Aedilred

2014-04-24, 09:55 PM

Syana smiled at the southern man, hooking her arm into his. Despite herself she couldn't help but find the man charming and his age seemed forgotten as she walked with him down the beach as she would a man half his age, that is to say, a man her own age.

"It was...intriguing. The technology is undoubtedly useful and I shall see that I obtain it, but it was somewhat disconcerting after the events at the Ball," she paused for a moment,

"I never got to say it to your face," she turned and looked the Jarr King in the eyes, "I'm sorry for your loss and for my part in it."
Athelmark nodded. "Thank you for that. And thank you for your letter of condolence, too. I know it was the least you could do, and so on, but it was appreciated all the same.

"Let us be clear about this. What happened at the Ball was an outrage." His eyes and voice are hard. "Eirwynn was all but a child. No father should... should have to burn his own daughter's body to bring it home. But anger and recriminations will not return my daughter to me, nor your husband to you, nor help a single one of those injured or killed. Besides which, who should I even blame? The Genivanian king? You? The Lord of Fire himself?" He shakes his head, and compassion returns to his face. "You have suffered as a result of this more than I have, probably more than anyone left alive, so I'm sure there's nothing I could say that wouldn't pale besides what you've said to yourself. So for my part, for what my opinion is worth, for all that you bear any responsibility at all, I forgive you."

He smiles sadly and takes her arm again. "Mostly, I am confused. I am no theologian, and an unworthy adherent to the Lord of Fire, if I'm honest. Pagan blood runs deep in my family. But I still struggle to understand what happened, and why. Most of all... I spoke to Eirwynn before she died. She wasn't scared, or angry. She didn't even seem in pain. She was completely calm. Some of those who lost their sight reacted similarly strangely, from what I saw. I don't know what to make of it." He sighs. "Maybe we that survived are really the unfortunate ones."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-24, 10:09 PM

Athelmark nodded. "Thank you for that. And thank you for your letter of condolence, too. I know it was the least you could do, and so on, but it was appreciated all the same.

"Let us be clear about this. What happened at the Ball was an outrage." His eyes and voice are hard. "Eirwynn was all but a child. No father should... should have to burn his own daughter's body to bring it home. But anger and recriminations will not return my daughter to me, nor your husband to you, nor help a single one of those injured or killed. Besides which, who should I even blame? The Genivanian king? You? The Lord of Fire himself?" He shakes his head, and compassion returns to his face. "You have suffered as a result of this more than I have, so I'm sure there's nothing I could say that wouldn't pale besides what you've said to yourself. So for my part, for what my opinion is worth, for all that you bear any responsibility at all, I forgive you."

He smiles sadly and takes her arm again. "Mostly, I am confused. I am no theologian, and an unworthy adherent to the Lord of Fire. Pagan blood runs deep in my family. But I still struggle to understand what happened, and why. Most of all... I spoke to Eirwynn before she died. She wasn't scared, or angry. She didn't even seem in pain. She was completely calm. Some of those who lost their sight reacted similarly strangely, from what I saw. I don't know what to make of it." He sighs. "Maybe we that survived are really the unfortunate ones."

Syana listened to the Jarrland King's anger with an understanding and sorrowful but unflinching face. When the anger faded she relaxed, realizing she had grown stiff, and happily let her arm return to his.

"I wish I understood. Shvedrishti is a very wise young woman, and I know the Radurjic teachings, but matters of faith are not where my talents or understandings lay. I cannot say I understand the will of the spirits, one that burns and maims but leaves those it strikes with awe, one that protects but speaks near exclusively to the Shahidi Mkuu, and in the far north a mistress said to promise an icy death to all those who do not follow her way."

Syana shook her head, "Faith is a strange matter, made stranger by those who posit one spirit to be more deserving of worship than another. Ancestors, spirits, gods, Radurja teaches they are all simply beings living in a realm beyond the veil, existing there almost as the nations do on Telluris. I suppose that may be why occur the things that have occurred, just as war between mortals, the spirits sometimes seek to expand on the world as well."

"Tell me though, now that we discuss faith, there was a woman at the Ball I did not know, later I discovered she was from the Priory of Ascension, I thought perhaps your delegation had brought her along but my people informed me this was not the case. Do you know anything about this 'Priory' seeing as geography might better inform you than I?"

Aedilred

2014-04-24, 10:41 PM

"I wish I understood. Shvedrishti is a very wise young woman, and I know the Radurjic teachings, but matters of faith are not where my talents or understandings lay. I cannot say I understand the will of the spirits, one that burns and maims but leaves those it strikes with awe, one that protects but speaks near exclusively to the Shahidi Mkuu, and in the far north a mistress said to promise an icy death to all those who do not follow her way."

Syana shook her head, "Faith is a strange matter, made stranger by those who posit one spirit to be more deserving of worship than another. Ancestors, spirits, gods, Radurja teaches they are all simply beings living in a realm beyond the veil, existing there almost as the nations do on Telluris. I suppose that may be why occur the things that have occurred, just as war between mortals, the spirits sometimes seek to expand on the world as well."
Athelmark nods. "It makes a sort of sense, I suppose. It's comforting to imagine the spirits exceed us as much in wisdom as they do in power - but perhaps they are more like us than we care to think. Perhaps I should speak with Shvedrishti. Aye, and Mere too - I won't be king forever, after all."

"Tell me though, now that we discuss faith, there was a woman at the Ball I did not know, later I discovered she was from the Priory of Ascension, I thought perhaps your delegation had brought her along but my people informed me this was not the case. Do you know anything about this 'Priory' seeing as geography might better inform you than I?"
"Simmony," he says, with an apparently forced neutrality. "I know her, though not well. She's a cold fish, that one. All business, or what passes for it, more Salterri than the Qzare, or at least she seems to like to think so." He grins. "Insists on calling me 'Lord Athelmark'. Even Hanyeo addressed me as 'King'.

"In all honesty, I know little about the Priory, though I should be making it my business to find out. I've had my eye on northern matters for so long I haven't been paying enough attention to what's going on in the Imperium. I've been taking the mountains between us for granted, I think. I'd barely heard of the Priory until about ten years ago; they started making themselves known around the time of the war. Their top man's called Zan Perfidious, who I've never met. I'm not sure where Simmony fits in but I think she's fairly senior.

"They sent me some messengers about - well, ten years ago, asking if they could proselytise - if that's the word I'm after - in my kingdom. I couldn't think of a reason to say no so I let them in, but I've never been entirely sure if that was the right thing to do." He purses his lips and looks as if he's about to say something more, then appears to think better of it and falls silent.

lt_murgen

2014-04-25, 08:54 AM

Yea, I messed up on the date. Your academy graduates would be in 392. The hard part is that ships are not lsited as resources, we jsut say they get built. Warships are built by actions. So you could trade Quarimosii ships for dyes, but it is essentially giving them the dyes as there is no resource trade. Similarly with tech- you can just build tradinge vessels with it, but warships still take an action.
Go ahead and trade the tech for the dyes. Instead, I'll do what I have done in other places. I'll 'gift' the Jarrs a first class port on their lands. OOC that means in the next 2 rounds, I will spend an action to build a port for them. If that is OK. It is all just fluff, but so are marriages, kinda.

I am suddenly disappointed that you have neither bananas nor pineapple as a resource. I will pretend they grow here regardless though.
Its just listed as tropical fruit, so it can be anything and everything!

"Celero fares better than her Queen. I am to assume to role of Regent soon. I regret I come here in more of an official capacity, and not as carefree party-goer, like most of your other guests." Amalia's words were slow, and almost sad.

Amber reached out, placing a gentle hand upon the womans forearm. "Make sure to take time for yourself. Our lands are tiny compared to the vastness of the continent, yet managing them is wearisome to me. I can only imagine the burdens you will face."

"We may not influce the Telluris stage, but you will always have friends here, and a quiet bungalow in a secluded spot in which to rest and refocus, should you desire."

WaylanderX

2014-04-25, 09:56 AM

Thankfully nothing too delaying, though the College in Genivana is still recovering, it seems however that the plans to bring the Triumvirate completely together shall be finished in the next ten years."

It seemed a long time, but considering the time they'd waited so far and how time flew while reigning Syana was as excited at the prospect as if it were tomorrow.

"And the formation of the official Kingdom? It goes well I hope? Long have we in Ignato lands hoped to see Hurosha bring complete unity to it's lands."

"The preparations are done indeed, the officials appointed. Ledar's we call them, each of them ruling over a major city. At the head of every region there will be the Ambassadors, which the Empress at the helm of it all. We are also reworking the army structure, but that still needs some work."

The princess nods in agreement with the mineral-man's first statement, wordlessly sounding out "prowess" with her lips absentmindedly. She returns to attention when he addresses her more directly, however, and holds out one hand.

"Of course. May I?"

Assuming that the message is handed over, she spends a moment reading over it and checking for any obvious problems.

"Let's see...ten bushels per year...exchange of goods...rate of ten units per standard trade ingot..."

She proceeds to hand the proposal back to the Menhîrin in question.

"Such a bargain can only prove mutually beneficial. As I currently act in the capacity of an emissary, tell your Empress that I have the authority to accept her offer and do."

"I WILL...RELAY THE MESSAGE......I THANK YOU...ON BEHALF OF OUR PEOPLE."

Grïend made a massive bow and took his leave. His first deal on the behalf of his Empress. Not bad, not bad at all.

QuintonBeck

2014-04-25, 10:00 AM

"Simmony," he says, with an apparently forced neutrality. "I know her, though not well. She's a cold fish, that one. All business, or what passes for it, more Salterri than the Qzare, or at least she seems to like to think so." He grins. "Insists on calling me 'Lord Athelmark'. Even Hanyeo addressed me as 'King'.

"In all honesty, I know little about the Priory, though I should be making it my business to find out. I've had my eye on northern matters for so long I haven't been paying enough attention to what's going on in the Imperium. I've been taking the mountains between us for granted, I think. I'd barely heard of the Priory until about ten years ago; they started making themselves known around the time of the war. Their top man's called Zan Perfidious, who I've never met. I'm not sure where Simmony fits in but I think she's fairly senior.

"They sent me some messengers about - well, ten years ago, asking if they could proselytise - if that's the word I'm after - in my kingdom. I couldn't think of a reason to say no so I let them in, but I've never been entirely sure if that was the right thing to do." He purses his lips and looks as if he's about to say something more, then appears to think better of it and falls silent.

"Hmm," Syana mused nodding, "I'd heard as well their propensity to claim Salterri heritage stronger than any we'd met before, taking almost a pride in the conflict with the north and the division between the Imperium and us northern states."

Syana walked with the Jarr king for a moment in silence, "I get a bad feeling about them Athelmark. I've been looking into them and they seem intent to start something, something bad for the north and the south."

"The preparations are done indeed, the officials appointed. Ledar's we call them, each of them ruling over a major city. At the head of every region there will be the Ambassadors, which the Empress at the helm of it all. We are also reworking the army structure, but that still needs some work."

"Yes, deciding the roles of the various peoples and organizations is taxing, the Triumvirate works on it as well, though we've decided to leave much of the smaller matters to regional decisions that are brought to Triumviral attention as needed in the Senate. Nyroth is ruled by the burgeoning noble class, represented in the Senate, Woodwind still pledges strong allegiance to the Ignato line and our senators are mainly veterans, Aloren with it's mercantile knack is represented by powerful merchants, Genivana by the faithful, Hrathan-Tuor by the Guildmasters, and while Grizzland is still worked to fit within I suspect their local human lords and orcish settlement leaders will come to represent the land in the greater Triumvirate."

She rubbed the bridge of her nose but smiled, "It is complicated, and I count myself lucky to be able to share the burden with Shvedrishti and the High Speaker."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-25, 10:01 AM

Actually, Qarimos does have "Ships" as a resource, so I could tangibly trade both the ships and the tech for the dyes. In fact, I think you might actually need Ships as a resource before you can use the ocean-faring tech, but I don't think that's enforced at all.

Anyway, I've got this in my actions:

Establish ongoing trade of Qarimosi Ships and Ocean-Faring Tech for Jarrland Dyes.

Aedilred

2014-04-25, 10:32 AM

*snip*
There's a long pause as Athelmark thinks it over. It's hard to forget it has only been ten years since the woman on his arm had commanded armies against his suzerain, and yet she had done more than anyone to bring about peace. The consquences of another general war would be terrible - the acrid smell of the burning pitch still clinging to his nostrils, and he shivers to imagine that being deployed in battle. If Syana was right, then the Priory is a threat, to all of them, and given its current trajectory its power would only continue to grow. Was Syana's instinct enough of a basis to make decisions, ignoring his own apprehensions? Could he afford to take the chance that she was wrong?

He reflects ruefully on his international position: somehow he's managed to position himself between the Triumvirate and the Salterri, despite his kingdom's geographical remoteness, and to say nothing of Lyradis - a problem for another day. But then if not him, then who? He's made his bed, and must lie in it. For a minute he envies his present hosts and their unapologetic, hedonistic neutrality.

"Say you're right," he says eventually, with evident caution. "What would you suggest should be done?"

Sounds fine to me! Also happy to have a JC trading station set up (probably on a small island off the coast near Horbeach; that way I can say it's not actually on Salterri soil if they decide to be annoyed about it :smallwink:). And/or you could renovate Horbeach into a world-class port as you suggest in your actions (or build a new one); since I was going to have to do that anyway it would be very welcome! :smallbiggrin: At the moment of course there's no direct sea passage from Jarrland to the Cities, although I'm hoping that exploration to the south-east will reveal a feasible one (even if I have to dig a canal, as I probably will).

QuintonBeck

2014-04-25, 11:28 AM

There's a long pause as Athelmark thinks it over. It's hard to forget it has only been ten years since the woman on his arm had commanded armies against his suzerain, and yet she had done more than anyone to bring about peace. The consquences of another general war would be terrible - the acrid smell of the burning pitch still clinging to his nostrils, and he shivers to imagine that being deployed in battle. If Syana was right, then the Priory is a threat, to all of them, and given its current trajectory its power would only continue to grow. Was Syana's instinct enough of a basis to make decisions, ignoring his own apprehensions? Could he afford to take the chance that she was wrong?

He reflects ruefully on his international position: somehow he's managed to position himself between the Triumvirate and the Salterri, despite his kingdom's geographical remoteness, and to say nothing of Lyradis - a problem for another day. But then if not him, then who? He's made his bed, and must lie in it. For a minute he envies his present hosts and their unapologetic, hedonistic neutrality.

"Say you're right," he says eventually, with evident caution. "What would you suggest should be done?"

"We talk," she said simply, "You, me, the Qzare, a sit down to discuss the Priory as it is the Imperium's land that is most directly threatened by their expansion at this time. I may have faced the Qzare in battle and been one of those who held him captive for half a decade, but so too did my grandfather face High Guildmaster Loki on the battlefields of Aloren decades ago and now Loki's son and myself are working to unite our lands in ways never done before."

"A worthy adversary is just as likely to be a worthy ally and I would wish to see peace maintained within the lands. You are a reasonable and well traveled man, with friends both north and south, it is my hope you might vouch for my offer to the Qzare when I make it and be present for the discussion as I value your insight. What do you think Athelmark, would the Qzare agree to such a thing do you think?"

Logic

2014-04-25, 11:36 AM

I am suddenly disappointed that you have neither bananas nor pineapple as a resource. I will pretend they grow here regardless though.
Celero's newest territory has Citrus fruit as a resource. You might get pineapple from them! Also, pigs. Because bacon is delicious.

Amber reached out, placing a gentle hand upon the womans forearm. "Make sure to take time for yourself. Our lands are tiny compared to the vastness of the continent, yet managing them is wearisome to me. I can only imagine the burdens you will face."

"We may not influce the Telluris stage, but you will always have friends here, and a quiet bungalow in a secluded spot in which to rest and refocus, should you desire."

Amalia responded to the older woman's touch warmly. In fact, it may have been the first time she had genuinely smiled at anyone save her uncle the whole trip. A few hours of small talk pass before Amalia's curiosity override the warning her uncle had given her, and see asked the very question he had told her not to.

"Lady Amber..." said Amalia, holding up her hand with partially webbed fingers. "...how is it the people of the Islands of the Jeweled Cities came by webbed hands and feet? This trait we share. As well as Celero's under ground people, the Bereginians. My uncle tells me they are likely descended from a cross-breed of water Berapi and exiled dwarves. What are your thoughts on the matter?"

"The Ashenians are an often cold people, but not incapable of compassion. MY husband taught me that," she stopped herself there, swallowing to keep herself controlled.

"Lord Rion, do not think I would hold it against Celero for bonding with the Union," she smiled at him, "For as much as I would wish to see our own lands united by blood, it is an important and healthy deterrent and step in the path to peace that our bloods might mix with the Ashenians and Bordeusi."

"My own brother is set now to marry who has become the heir of the Concordat and I could not be happier to know that Ignato blood alongside that of the Bordeusi will eventually rule within Bordeux."

She gripped Celerese man's hand reassuringly, "But if you wish my own young heir," Syana looked out towards the beach, "Is yet still un-betrothed, though I wouldn't desire she marry into any succession too close to the Celerese throne as she must be free to take up rule her own. As well, my young son who just one month past saw his sixth birthday will one day need a wife."

Mira is Syana's first born and heir, she's 16 right now in the year 387; Korath II is 6 in the same year; Your family tree doesn't have any young people on it so I figure you can add them in if you want haha; Also, our trade/gift agreements are in my actions post if you want to look there
((OOC: Rion is still a little racist towards the people of the UN, especially Crima. By virtue of the close bond Crima shares with Ashenia and Bordeux, Rion hates them too.))

"My apologies, my lady. I still have a fire in my heart that burns for Crima and their allies. After all my father and sister fought for, after all Celero suffered under the Cult of Fire, after all the peace we brought to the realm as a whole, Chieftan Umajin dared to send fire worshipers to kill and maim our people." Rion spit at the name of Umajin.

"There may be some hope for Bordeux and Ashenia. I do love my Grand-nephew. But I will never forgive Crima. Ever." The hate and vitriol is apparent to anyone within earshot, and to most, it appears Lord Rion does not care that the whole of Telluris knows.

"So again I apologize if I have insulted you, please forgive me. When you or your kingdom have suffered like I or Celero has, you may find it hard to forgive an enemy such as Crima, and their allies."

I was talking to you! I made a joke and everything! Shouldn't you respond? :smalltongue:

QuintonBeck

2014-04-25, 11:46 AM

((OOC: Rion is still a little racist towards the people of the UN, especially Crima. By virtue of the close bond Crima shares with Ashenia and Bordeux, Rion hates them too.))

"My apologies, my lady. I still have a fire in my heart that burns for Crima and their allies. After all my father and sister fought for, after all Celero suffered under the Cult of Fire, after all the peace we brought to the realm as a whole, Chieftan Umajin dared to send fire worshipers to kill and maim our people." Rion spit at the name of Umajin.

"There may be some hope for Bordeux and Ashenia. I do love my Grand-nephew. But I will never forgive Crima. Ever." The hate and vitriol is apparent to anyone within earshot, and to most, it appears Lord Rion does not care that the whole of Telluris knows.

"So again I apologize if I have insulted you, please forgive me. When you or your kingdom have suffered like I or Celero has, you may find it hard to forgive an enemy such as Crima, and their allies."

"I understand," Syana nodded her head.

The conflict with the Union had been years before her time and though suspicion of Unioners still held strong in much of her lands the peaceful overtures between their people had done much to settle such feelings. Still, those of older generations maintained harder lined beliefs and it was clear Rion would fit in amongst them.

"You have not offended me, I know the history there is wicked and wrong, but it is my belief that time and effort may heal even those wounds."

"Tell me Lord Rion," she said, switching the subject, "What is this I have heard of these great fleet carrier ships designed by Celero? Quite the marvel to behold they say."

lt_murgen

2014-04-25, 12:07 PM

[SPOILER]"Lady Amber..." said Amalia, holding up her hand with partially webbed fingers. "...how is it the people of the Islands of the Jeweled Cities came by webbed hands and feet? This trait we share. As well as Celero's under ground people, the Bereginians. My uncle tells me they are likely descended from a cross-breed of water Berapi and exiled dwarves. What are your thoughts on the matter?"

"Amalia, dear, The Jeweled Cities have long been a haven for the outcast, the isolated, and those that didn't fit in. Our ships sailed the Sea of the Golden Sun for decades. A quick walk through any of our cities will find folks from just about every region in iTelluris. So, It is possible that we gained this trait from your people, or the other way around. But those of use who are true Islanders have more than just webbed hands and feet."

Amber leaned in close, so Amalia was staring directly into her eyes, "Don't be frightened." She said. Amber twitched some facial muscles, and a transparant lens of some kind slid over her eyes. "Our eyes have adapted to life in salt water, with a clear eyelid to protect them." She leaned back and pressed her hands against the sides of her chest. "We also have special ribcages, which allow us to dive far deeper than a Continental, and stay submerged for a dozen minutes or better."

Her voice turned specualtive. "We honestly do not know how or why we are what we are. The Quill who are our true cousins claim we were once partially fae. They might mean an offshoot of human and berapi. We don't know- we have little historical records. That is why our scholars study the history of the Cloudiz as well."

Aedilred

2014-04-25, 12:16 PM

*snip*
"I doubt any man could honestly claim to know the mind of a Qzare," he says, "and I know him hardly at all. Yet there can be no harm in making the approach. Even if he refuses a meeting, that would give us some suggestion as to his intentions - that he is either supportive of the Priory's actions or blind to them. I would gladly lend my word to yours and attend any discussion that takes place." He adds darkly, "Besides, I have other issues I should like to raise with the Qzare away from prying ears."

After a moment's further thought, something else seems to occur. "Of course, there is one potential complication. I understand it is rare for a Qzare to attend diplomatic conferences in person. If Wandao sent instead a trusted ambassador, yet as we suspect the Priory's influence stretches as far as the foot of the Silver Throne... how could we be sure that any representative were not a Priory catspaw?"

Logic

2014-04-25, 12:18 PM

"I understand," Syana nodded her head.

The conflict with the Union had been years before her time and though suspicion of Unioners still held strong in much of her lands the peaceful overtures between their people had done much to settle such feelings. Still, those of older generations maintained harder lined beliefs and it was clear Rion would fit in amongst them.

"You have not offended me, I know the history there is wicked and wrong, but it is my belief that time and effort may heal even those wounds."

"Tell me Lord Rion," she said, switching the subject, "What is this I have heard of these great fleet carrier ships designed by Celero? Quite the marvel to behold they say."

Rion smiled a sideways grin.

"That's actually quite the funny, and lengthy story. It all began about fifteen years ago when my half-brother and cousin, Kinil and Kuri, General and Admiral respectively, got into an argument about our Griffon riders. Naturally, Kinil thought they should belong to the Army, as they are well suited to a cavalry role. Kuri thought that Kinil had more than enough soldiers, and thought the Griffon Riders should fall under the purview of the navy.

"Kinil laughed and laughed... at this, Rion scrunches up his face and alters his voice to imitate a man with of much higher pitch "...and said 'when you can put them on a boat, you are welcome to have some of them!'

Resuming his normal voice, Rion continued: "And that was it. Kuri was obsessed. He spoke to every sage in the Kingdom, and when he had gathered a shipwright, a griffon tamer, a builder, an architect, and that sage inventor together, they came up with the plans. It took nearly ten years to make the plans, and nearly a year more to convince the queen to pay for it, not to mention the three years to actually build one."

All the while, Rion has a starry look in his eyes. He looks somewhere between amused and nostalgic.

"Forgive an old man his indulgences into long stories. I hope I answered your question to you satisfaction.

Rion pauses a moment, and looks rather confused.

"What was your question again? I seem to have forgotten. I must have gotten carried away in one of my stories."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-25, 12:38 PM

"I doubt any man could honestly claim to know the mind of a Qzare," he says, "and I know him hardly at all. Yet there can be no harm in making the approach. Even if he refuses a meeting, that would give us some suggestion as to his intentions - that he is either supportive of the Priory's actions or blind to them. I would gladly lend my word to yours and attend any discussion that takes place." He adds darkly, "Besides, I have other issues I should like to raise with the Qzare away from prying ears."

After a moment's further thought, something else seems to occur. "Of course, there is one potential complication. I understand it is rare for a Qzare to attend diplomatic conferences in person. If Wandao sent instead a trusted ambassador, yet as we suspect the Priory's influence stretches as far as the foot of the Silver Throne... how could we be sure that any representative were not a Priory catspaw?"

"Well, it would be my hope that the Qzare might host the meeting in his lands, that way he need to fear traveling or threat as we would meet him on his own terms. It still runs the risk of Priory spies being about, but I believe this is a matter that ought to be discussed directly with the Qzare if he would agree to it even at that risk." Syana answers the Jarr king, looking down the beach southward as if she might catch glimpse of Salterri lands from the shore.

Rion smiled a sideways grin.

"That's actually quite the funny, and lengthy story. It all began about fifteen years ago when my half-brother and cousin, Kinil and Kuri, General and Admiral respectively, got into an argument about our Griffon riders. Naturally, Kinil thought they should belong to the Army, as they are well suited to a cavalry role. Kuri thought that Kinil had more than enough soldiers, and thought the Griffon Riders should fall under the purview of the navy.

"Kinil laughed and laughed... at this, Rion scrunches up his face and alters his voice to imitate a man with of much higher pitch "...and said 'when you can put them on a boat, you are welcome to have some of them!'

Resuming his normal voice, Rion continued: "And that was it. Kuri was obsessed. He spoke to every sage in the Kingdom, and when he had gathered a shipwright, a griffon tamer, a builder, an architect, and that sage inventor together, they came up with the plans. It took nearly ten years to make the plans, and nearly a year more to convince the queen to build one, not to mention the three years to actually build one."

All the while, Rion has a starry look in his eyes. He looks somewhere between amused and nostalgic.

"Forgive an old man his indulgences into long stories. I hope I answered your question to you satisfaction.

Rion pauses a moment, and looks rather confused.

"What was your question again? I seem to have forgotten. I must have gotten carried away in one of my stories.

Syana laughed at the Celerese Lord's tale as he told it, appreciating his impression of Kinil with a certain extra degree, having met the man during the initial interrogation of Qzare Wandao.

"I think you have answered my question as it stood Lord Rion. It sounds a fine technology and one which the Treatise Elemental shall benefit greatly from." She said, smiling to soften the gentle reminder of the terms of their agreement.

SamBurke

2014-04-25, 12:55 PM

Soooo... Tech trade time? :smallwink:

Aedilred

2014-04-25, 01:18 PM

*snip*
"I think that would be wise. Perhaps in Bor-Teire directly across the border from Grizzland." He nods. "Well, you have my utmost support in this matter."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-25, 01:34 PM

"I think that would be wise. Perhaps in Bor-Teire directly across the border from Grizzland." He nods. "Well, you have my utmost support in this matter."

"I fear their recent civil war may not allow it, but I shall make the suggestion nonetheless. I appreciate your support in this Athelmark, and I advise you to be wary that you do not find your nation swallowed up by the Priory before we have a chance to look at it's true form." Syana said, her eyes filled with concern and warning.

Aedilred

2014-04-25, 01:54 PM

QuintonBeck

2014-04-25, 02:07 PM

He nods grimly. "I have no intention of surrendering my kingdom without a fight. But I have paid too little attention to the religious affairs of my people." He gives a wan smile. "I may be a worshipper of the Lord of Fire, in name at least, but honestly I never had any plans to make my subjects convert. But if the Blazing Temple or any of its orders were to send me missionaries today, I'd welcome them with open arms."

"I'll see what I might be able to do in that regard," Syana said, smiling coyly, "While the matters of religious beliefs may not be where my talent lies, the organizing of those who direct such beliefs and running the gambit of political deals and offers to receive assistance is right inside my area of expertise."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-25, 02:43 PM

Lord Rion was doing his best to not appear rude, but it was all he could do to not stare are the bare skin of the Raaneki before him. His niece, Princess Amalia noticed his glances fairly quickly, and did her best to distract not only her uncle's gaze, but also the attention of the Raaneki royal couple from what might just turn out to be an international incident.
"It goes just as well as we have hoped!" said Amalia.

"What you hear is true. Your countrymen buy so many furs in the foot-hills shortly after they arrive in Celero, it is a wonder we still have stalking-cats to hunt there!" Amalia said with a laugh.

"Many of your fellows attempt to make it to the warmer coast from time to time. Though I suspect with the way they wear furs in our ports, they will want to take them home with them and start a fashion statement of fainting." added Lord Rion.

Queen and King both noticed the wandering eyes of Lord Rion. Queen Anguri cracked a half grin. As Princess Amalia spoke, Anguri surreptitiously let her shawl slide down her arms. By the time Amalia had finished, the Raaneki Queen was very nearly exposing her athletic torso. Wine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner made many Raaneki grow plump as they aged. Neither Anguri nor Krama had suffered the same fate.

"Fainting, yes!" King Krama laughed in return. "In Raaneka, much like these islands, furs make better wall hangings than clothing."

"Or bedding, in winter." Queen Anguri's eyes were transparently trained on the old Celerese man.

Whoops! Didn't mean to ignore you. This week's been pretty nuts, and IC posts take me much longer than OOC. :smallsmile:

For the record: totally outside my intentions, Anguri has started collecting Biblical Knowledge of various heads of state. If the rumors are true, she even gave Duke Ironfang a bastard.

Aedilred

2014-04-25, 03:54 PM

"I'll see what I might be able to do in that regard," Syana said, smiling coyly, "While the matters of religious beliefs may not be where my talent lies, the organizing of those who direct such beliefs and running the gambit of political deals and offers to receive assistance is right inside my area of expertise."
Athelmark laughs. "Well then, I look forward to seeing the product of your organisation, whatever it may be."

***

(Later)

After waiting for an opportune moment when she wasn't distracted by other goings-on, Athelmark approaches Shvedrishti and bows solemnly. "Milady, please allow me to introduce myself, since I haven't had the honour of meeting you before. Athelmark, King of the Jarrs, at your service."

Straightening up, he peers slightly at Jonas. "You look rather familiar, young man. You wouldn't happen to be young Jonas, would you?"

aspi

2014-04-25, 05:38 PM

Amber smiled warmly, "Greetings! We are honored you made the trip all the way here. We know the coast is warm, so if you find your accomodations uncomfortable, we have arranged a private home in Opal atop the mountain. All you need do is ask."

Upon seeing the sculptures, she marvelled, "Wow. How impressive." She waved someone over. "This is Whisper. She is a Air Shaman of the Wild."

Whisper bent and gently, almost reverently selected a sculpture, holding it to the light and examining it closely. "These are truly remarkable. The skill of selection and cut... truly remarkable." Turning, she bowed very deeply, "You shower us with great honor, Lady Imnaya. It is clear why your father trusts you so.".
Imnaya smiled politely and hesitated for a moment before pointing out "While he allowed me to call him so, the chieftain is my father only in law. Our rules of succession must appear strange to you, as I have heard of none like them in all of Telluris, but it is the spouse of the chieftains eldest child who inherists the title." Noticing that she had unintentionally changed to subject, she added "I am delighted that the amber pleases you. It was kind of you to invite us, and even kinder to offer special accomodations. I believe we would like to join the celebrations first, but during the hours around noon, a retreat in a cooler place would be very welcome."

Imnaya wondered how she could cautiously steer the conversation in the direction of a request she wanted to make. After a moment's thought, she decided that a direct approach would be best. "During the journey to your islands, I had ample time to admire the skill of your sailors. Due to some advances in Wenyavuk this is something that we would like to learn more about. I am told that you have an academy for sailors? Would it be possible to send students from Wenyavuk, so that they could learn from you what they would otherwise have to teach themselves?"

I'd like to make a fluff-subaction where I send some Na'nuk sailors to be trained in the Jewelled Cities.

Also, I know that you mentioned you were interested in amber a while back. I haven't forgotten and when I get around to doing a cur5 with a new ruler I'll get back to you. Might be a while though.

Athelmark smiles instinctively at a familiar face. "Näiyop! Good to see you again!" He claps Näiyop on the shoulder, then his smile flickers as he recalls the circumstances of their meeting. "How have you been? And how's your sister?"

Athelmark waves at the table. "Be my guest - your luck can't be much worse than mine! I think the tiles might be more my style... Are any of your people entering the Jielf games?"
The chieftain nodded gratefully at the question "She is well, thank you. Even though her shoulder still pains her on dry days, which luckily aren't all that common in Wenyavuk, she is doing far better than I could have hoped. In her mind she still bears the scars from that day" he paused for a moment "but I believe we all do. She will be glad to know that you are here. I am sure that she will come to see you later and thank you personally."

On the second day (Aedilred)
After the worst heat of the day had diminished to a warm breeze, Ania approached the pavillon of the Jarrs. She was wearing a silk dress, whose dark blue color was similar to the ball gown she'd worn six years ago, but the style was less elaborate and it was much lighter. In her hand, she held a single object, wrapped in a cloth of white linen. As she arrived, she kindly asked to speak to King Athelmark.

When he approached, she dropped a curtsey and addressed him "Your Highness, I am Ania an Pajen. My brother mentioned that you were a guest of the Islanders as well. I had hoped you would be." She smiled shyly "I would like to thank you for your help at the Grand Ball. It has not been an easy time since, but I am grateful to those who saved me. I have been told that you are a believer in the Lord of Fire and yet you lost family as well that day. Please, accept this as a token of my gratitude. I hope it will help you to remember that it is not out of hate that he burns us if we are drawn in to close." She unwrapped the object she'd been carrying and offered it to the King. It was a carefully crafted sculpture made from dark red amber, holding a white pearl in his hands. From his eyes, three fiery tears ran down his cheek towards the pearl.

Sorry if I'm being a bit sluggish in replies. It's not the most relaxed RL week I've ever had :smallsigh:

Aedilred

2014-04-25, 06:03 PM

When he approached, she dropped a curtsey and addressed him "Your Highness, I am Ania an Pajen. My brother mentioned that you were a guest of the Islanders as well. I had hoped you would be." She smiled shyly "I would like to thank you for your help at the Grand Ball. It has not been an easy time since, but I am grateful to those who saved me. I have been told that you are a believer in the Lord of Fire and yet you lost family as well that day. Please, accept this as a token of my gratitude. I hope it will help you to remember that it is not out of hate that he burns us if we are drawn in to close." She unwrapped the object she'd been carrying and offered it to the King. It was a carefully crafted sculpture made from dark red amber, holding a white pearl in his hands. From his eyes, three fiery tears ran down his cheek towards the pearl.
Athelmark smiles warmly as he sees her. "Of course, milady Ania, I remember you, and it gladdens me to see you well, or at least as well as can be expected."

When he looks at the sculpture, it seems for a moment as if his own eyes well with tears. "Milady, you honour me with this gift. Thank you." He looks as if he has more to say, but can't find the words. Eventually, he adds, "You and your brother will always be welcome in my kingdom."

He beckons and one of his retainers approaches, a dark man in his late thirties with rather shorter hair than the king, and a shadow of stubble on his chin. "Milady," says the king, "this is my wife's brother, Villem Horwik. Villem, lady Ania an Pajen of Wenyavuk. Would you care to stay for some refreshment, milady?"

He hands the sculpture to Villem, telling him to put it somewhere safe, and explains to Ania, "They're fine people, these islanders, but rather - ah, light-fingered. Leaving something so fine lying around in a city of pirates is just asking to be deprived of it. Fortunately, my brother-in-law is a pirate at heart himself, and is sure to find somewhere secure."

Sorry if I'm being a bit sluggish in replies. It's not the most relaxed RL week I've ever had :smallsigh:
Alas, weeks like that are teh suck. Don't worry about it :smallsmile:

lt_murgen

2014-04-25, 08:23 PM

*snip

Jonas regarded the man cooly. The young man seemed the least... outgoing of any Islander he had ever seen. The look he gave was an appraising glance, as one would give an enemy. Still, his answer seemed neutral. "Yes, I am Jonas. And you are the father of the man my sister has fallen for."

I am told that you have an academy for sailors? Would it be possible to send students from Wenyavuk, so that they could learn from you what they would otherwise have to teach themselves?"[/COLOR]

"I am certain something can be arranged." Amber nodded sagely. She turned to another person in the pavillion, "Indigo, could we accomodate a few more students?"

"I believe we could. Even more so, if we were to send a few of our people to the Academy they are building."

"Oh! That's right! Our traders have heard tales of some kind of Winter Academy. Since ice and cold are so foerign to us, perhaps an exchange?"

lt_murgen

2014-04-25, 08:27 PM

Vignettes during the party

The boats were loaded with tourists every morning, taking tours of the Tangarotha Archipelago. First, they guides took them out to see slightly, pointing out the sheer size of the archipelago’s largest island, Old Man. They discuss how their history claims the eruption of Old Man in ages past formed the rest of the archipelago. Then they head west, onto the Grand Banks. They travelled over colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, with water so clear it was like crystal. Guides pointed out as many of the dozen of sharks species as they could see, and the several species of dolphin native to the waters.

A while later, a large mangrove forest loomed in their path. The boats slide into the shade of the tree, travelling the water that got murky with plant matter. Crocodiles and poisonous snakes, large turtles and dozens of species of birds flitted through the trees. The guests were delighted when a troop of small, furry primates descended upon the boats, begging for fruit. Flowers in the trees and on lily pads provided a bright contrast to the deep green of the mangrove.
Lunch was a short time later, served at the City of Pearl. A vast flotilla of ships, rafts, and barges, it was highly reminiscent of the city in Genivania. Floating over vast oyster beds, the guests were treated to an oyster boil, with any pearls going to the one who opened the oyster. Shopping was also on the docket, as Pearl was the trading center of the Jeweled Cities. Just about anything one could want was for sale here.

The route back passed through the vast kelp-olive beds. Thick. Ropy kelp loomed up out of the dark, cool water. Seals and otters made their home there. The guides described the kelp-olive with great admiration- talking about its use for cooking, for heating, for sealing hulls. They described how basic ropes and cloth fibers were made from the ropy cords. They also pointed out the dangers of harvest- most notably the large, agile sharks that feast on the seals, and the iron kraken who sinuously blends into the very kelp stands. Both creatures saw humans as a viable snack alternative.

Boats left the beaches and travelled around to the northwest. Docking at the City of Amber on the Isle of Birds, visitors were quietly escorted to the outer gates. The Isle of Birds was a steep, rocky island completely covered in forest. It was quiet here, only the sounds of the wind, waves, and the calls of the birds disrupted the solitude. Numerous well-worn paths crisscrossed the land, leading to secluded groves or stunning ocean overlooks. It was easy to find a spot to be alone, and those who sought to commune with their deity found the opportunity to do so.

The Shamans of the Wild themselves quietly welcomed any who wished to discuss theology, cosmology, and philosophy. For the most part, they were quiet and respectful of the opinions of others, asking far more questions than they opine about. Some might find this quiet reserve an odd counterpoint to the hedonistic and gregarious nature of the rest of their people. When asked, their reply is that the ocean teaches you to rejoice when with others, for the travelling the wide seas brings solitude enough.
A deep ocean vessel takes the tourists to the far north end of the archipelago. Big Boy was the newest island, wild and untamed except for a single port city. Smoke and ash spewed from the top of the island, and bright red lava oozed from several spots along its face. Their guides discuss how mining the cooled lava flows provides the Islands most of their metals and many gems.

They anchored off the coast, to watch the lave pour into the sea. It was quite a pyrotechnic show full of jets of steam, rocks bursting from the heat or sudden cooling, with sparks and flame shooting into the air. A few of the braver tourists ventured in longboats closer to the outflow. Using nets, they were able to scoops up pieces of rock foam- pumice so light and full of trapped air it literally floated upon the water. The occasional spark or burning ember that landed in the wooden boat only added to the excitement.

After Dinner, Night 2:

After dinner, the porters brought to each guest a small boat, crafted out of a coconut shell. Inside each was a small piece of cloth, soaked in pitch. Amber invited them all down to a specific spot on the beach. Dusk was setting as they gathered around. She held the toy boat for the crowd to see.

“This is a remembrance boat. It is our custom to craft one of these in honor of someone lost to us. Lost to death, lost at sea, lost in battle or accident, lost from harsh words or pride. We speak words to reconciliation and hope to it, then send it on its way.” Amber lowers the boat to her lips, “Carry these words to Princess Idrisa, our loss of friendship is a wound upon my heart, I wish we could mend it.” Reaching out, she took a lit taper and set the cloth in the boat alight. Then, she placed it in a large tidal pool.

Another council member, Amber’s mother, raised her boat “Carry these words to my love, Jonas Grumby. I know not where you are. If you are alive or dead. May this flame find a way to bring us back together.” Then she, too, placed her boat in the pool.

One my one the council, the porters and any guests who wanted to participate followed the custom. Some placed several boats, taking from a table full of extras. Soon the tidal pool was full of little ships, each bearing a small flame. Darkness set it, the sky full of purples and blues.

Amber stood watching the boats for a few minutes. Then, a wave carried on the rising tide breached the seaward edge of the pool. It lifted all the boats and swept them out of the pool and into the sea itself. A fast, rushing current quickly scattered the small boats even farther out. In moments, the sea appeared as a pool of twinkling stars. “May your journey find its proper end”, Amber said. Addressing the crowd, “Thank you for sharing this moment with us.”

Aedilred

2014-04-25, 09:57 PM

Jonas regarded the man cooly. The young man seemed the least... outgoing of any Islander he had ever seen. The look he gave was an appraising glance, as one would give an enemy. Still, his answer seemed neutral. "Yes, I am Jonas. And you are the father of the man my sister has fallen for."
The king was rather taken aback, having become used to the easy informality of the islanders. He glanced in Shvedri's direction as if to say "please excuse me for a moment" and continued to address Jonas with a smile.

"I thought as much - you look like your sister. Unsurprising, perhaps, but striking nonetheless. We've become very fond of Tempest and we're honoured to welcome her to our family. And it's a pleasure to meet you, too, finally, having heard so much about you."

One my one the council, the porters and any guests who wanted to participate followed the custom. Some placed several boats, taking from a table full of extras. Soon the tidal pool was full of little ships, each bearing a small flame. Darkness set it, the sky full of purples and blues.
Villem and his men each placed a boat in the pool, Villem doing so with particular solemnity. Those watching him closely - though who would be, with so many others in attendance? - might have noticed him glance towards the Qarimosi delegation, then a moment later towards Ginger and Amber, and nod slightly to himself, as if reaching a decision.

Logic

2014-04-25, 11:47 PM

Queen and King both noticed the wandering eyes of Lord Rion. Queen Anguri cracked a half grin. As Princess Amalia spoke, Anguri surreptitiously let her shawl slide down her arms. By the time Amalia had finished, the Raaneki Queen was very nearly exposing her athletic torso. Wine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner made many Raaneki grow plump as they aged. Neither Anguri nor Krama had suffered the same fate.

"Fainting, yes!" King Krama laughed in return. "In Raaneka, much like these islands, furs make better wall hangings than clothing."

"Or bedding, in winter." Queen Anguri's eyes were transparently trained on the old Celerese man.

Whoops! Didn't mean to ignore you. This week's been pretty nuts, and IC posts take me much longer than OOC. :smallsmile:

For the record: totally outside my intentions, Anguri has started collecting Biblical Knowledge of various heads of state. If the rumors are true, she even gave Duke Ironfang a bastard.

Lord Rion is no head of state, just a 73 year old man with an intact libido that happens to be advising his niece, the Queen-to-be. Also, he would never hurt his wife, Lady Leona Flamestrike of Kasumor. She can have a temper.

And don't worry if you life gets in the way. I've had a hard time keeping up over a couple weeks in the past.
Amalia, no doubt noticing the gaze of the Raaneki Queen, speaks a little louder and tries to hide a sharp elbow in her uncle's ribs. A conspicuous gush of air exits the older man's lungs, and his ogling abruptly stops as he excuses himself a moment to go cough away from the Royals before him.

"Forgive my uncle, for he has allergies. Something in these Isles must be upsetting his lungs." She says with a smirk. "I hear he had nearly as much trouble at the Raaneki games, where he was quietly wed."

Amalia glances over her should to see her elderly uncle hunched over. His coughing ceases as he raises his head, and the guilty look on his face is plain for all to see. It quickly turns to apologetic as he rises to his full height, then his face becomes one of stone, looking at only the eyes of the Raaneki Queen, when his glances happen to fall in her direction.

Morph Bark

2014-04-26, 07:39 AM

A rowboat pulled into the harbor, one man heaving the oars with breaths just as heaving. A black cloak and shirt lay between him and an old man sitting across him with a grey beard longer and thicker than the shirtless' man's, and a face with half of it heavily scarred. The rowing man was shirtless, while the old man wore a thin shirt that stuck with sweat to his back from the sun. A makeshift parasol shaded him partially against the sun, as well a young boy that sat beside him holding it. In the back of the boat lay a small pile of weapons, bags of food and a chest.

The rowboat bumped against the shore and the shirtless man jumped out and tied it with a rope to a post. "It's about time-a." The old man grumbled, lifting the young boy up to his compatriot, who put him down on the shore. "It's-a been too long." He tossed the parasol onto the shore and grabbed a cutlass to attach to his belt before he climbed ashore and surveyed the festive area with his one good eye. "First-a order of duty-a, boy. Get-a me a hat."

QuintonBeck

2014-04-26, 10:32 AM

Mira had been running down the the beach to catch up with a cheeky Islander boy when she saw the strange row boat make shore on the sand. She might have thought them Islanders returning from a fishing expedition or such but they didn't carry the same air as the carefree island people did. She stood stock still, staring with interest at the strange new arrivals, wondering who they were and what they were doing. She thought about approaching them but maintained her distance for now.

Morph Bark

2014-04-26, 02:18 PM

QuintonBeck

2014-04-26, 02:42 PM

"Hey, you!" The shirtless man called out at Mira when he saw her stop. "Could you tell us where we might find the Pirate Queen?"

The boy meanwhile returned to the old man with a hat, which he happily donned. "Good-a boy. Did-a you steal-a it proper?" He grinned and patted the boy's head.

"Pirate Queen?" she asked, confused, "Do you mean the Regina of the Jeweled Cities?"

She began to approach the strangers,

"Are you here for the anniversary celebration?"

Morph Bark

2014-04-26, 03:22 PM

"Pirate Queen?" she asked, confused, "Do you mean the Regina of the Jeweled Cities?"

She began to approach the strangers,

"Are you here for the anniversary celebration?"

"Yeah, that one." The shirtless man replied, then raised an eyebrow. "Whose anniversary is it?"

QuintonBeck

2014-04-26, 03:28 PM

"Yeah, that one." The shirtless man replied, then raised an eyebrow. "Whose anniversary is it?"

"It's the Cities Anniversary, fifty years since the end of the Pirate Lords and the unification of the people..." she said carefully, unsure how this man would react to that news.

aspi

2014-04-26, 04:50 PM

Athelmark smiles warmly as he sees her. "Of course, milady Ania, I remember you, and it gladdens me to see you well, or at least as well as can be expected."

When he looks at the sculpture, it seems for a moment as if his own eyes well with tears. "Milady, you honour me with this gift. Thank you." He looks as if he has more to say, but can't find the words. Eventually, he adds, "You and your brother will always be welcome in my kingdom."

He beckons and one of his retainers approaches, a dark man in his late thirties with rather shorter hair than the king, and a shadow of stubble on his chin. "Milady," says the king, "this is my wife's brother, Villem Horwik. Villem, lady Ania an Pajen of Wenyavuk. Would you care to stay for some refreshment, milady?"

He hands the sculpture to Villem, telling him to put it somewhere safe, and explains to Ania, "They're fine people, these islanders, but rather - ah, light-fingered. Leaving something so fine lying around in a city of pirates is just asking to be deprived of it. Fortunately, my brother-in-law is a pirate at heart himself, and is sure to find somewhere secure."
At the king's comment about his brother in law, the Na'nuk's face lit up in a smile "Well, then let's hope that he also happens to find it again when you ask for it later. But please, I am not of noble birth and no lady, just call me Ania. I would be glad to stay for a while and hear about your lands. I am told they are far away to the south and that if one were to venture even further to the south, one may reach fields of ice just as one would in the North?"

As they sit down she explains this notion further "For a long time, the Na'nuk believed that there was nothing outside our home but endless ice. So when we discovered green lands in the South, our scholars were face with the dilemma of explaining the shape of the world. We believe that it is essentially a sphere and hope to prove this theory very soon. But even then there remains the dispute between those who believe the world to gradually become warmer as one ventures south and those who believe it to be warm only in the center. Do your people have any knowledge of the lands to the South?"

"I am certain something can be arranged." Amber nodded sagely. She turned to another person in the pavillion, "Indigo, could we accomodate a few more students?"

"I believe we could. Even more so, if we were to send a few of our people to the Academy they are building."

"Oh! That's right! Our traders have heard tales of some kind of Winter Academy. Since ice and cold are so foerign to us, perhaps an exchange?"
Imnaya nodded "Yes, we do have that Academy", then paused for a moment and smiled apologetically "What I mean to say is that we will have. It should be completed before year's end. We already have imported lenses from Bordeux to install an observatory, so there are things to do besides studying snow and ice. I am sure that a comparison of your night sky to ours would be benefitial for navigation. I will begin with preparations for the arrival of your students once I return to Wenyavuk."

After Dinner, Night 2:
Although they had each recieved a ship, Ania and Näiyop knew without words that they would need only one, and so he placed his on the table for spares before they went down to the water. Quietly, they observed the waves for a while before Näiyop said "We still miss you old friend" and his sister added "I hope you find your way back to our people one day." Neither of them could bear the thought of lighting the miniature ship aflame, and so they they knelt down and placed it in the sea unlit, letting it slip quietly into the night.

Aedilred

2014-04-26, 05:39 PM

"Well, then let's hope that he also happens to find it again when you ask for it later. But please, I am not of noble birth and no lady, just call me Ania.
The king holds up his hands in a gesture of exasperation and apology. "My people too had no tradition of true nobility until relatively recently, not since the time of the elf kings. Then the Salterri started referring to our clan chiefs as lords, and now I have earls and dukes up to my ears and I find that having acquired the habit of calling everyone 'milord' and 'milady' it's quite difficult to drop. So," he adds with a grin, "I'd be obliged if you'd forgive me the occasional slip."

*snip*

Athelmark listens carefully, nodding at various points and looking generally thoughtful.

"I too have heard this idea that the world is round," he says, eventually, "and I would like to believe it is so. Apart from anything else, if we could open a sea passage between the eastern and western oceans it would be of great benefit to my people and doubtless many others.

"My people are not great explorers, I'm afraid, although I suspect Villem and my son are planning to change that in the near future. I think I have travelled as widely as almost anyone from my kingdom merely in coming here and to Aloren. So I know relatively little of the land to the south of my own, save that much if not all of it is held by the Salterri, but both I and they have been preoccupied of late and I have not thought to ask them for maps of the area. I did send some explorers of my own into the lands to the south-west, and they did not report ice sheets, but perhaps they did not travel far enough to find them.

"I am however confident that the climate does not warm the further south one goes. My own kingdom is not cool, certainly not compared to what I imagine Wenyavuk to be like, but it is cooler than this, and my explorers who have ventured south have reported a more temperate climate there. Whether that is a localised effect due to our location by the sea, I cannot be sure, of course, but of the scenarios you have suggested it seems more likely to me there is a band of heat through the centre of the known world, and it gradually gets cooler the further north or south you travel from it."

An idea seems to occur to him. "Of course, if there really are fields of ice to the south, my people would not be well-equipped to investigate and explore them, but I imagine the Wenyavuk would be experts. If you and your brother wished to send expeditions south to find and map these ice fields I would be happy to provide what support I could."

Morph Bark

2014-04-26, 06:11 PM

"It's the Cities Anniversary, fifty years since the end of the Pirate Lords and the unification of the people..." she said carefully, unsure how this man would react to that news.

"Ahh, yes. Has it been fifty years already? Time sure flies." The shirtless man smiled. The older man walked up to them, scratching at his scars near his blind eye. "If-a you could-a take us to-a the Regina, we'd-a be-a very grateful. Doubly so if-a there is-a any people from-a--" "--Criiima!" The old man frowned, making his blind eye look especially menacing. "Sure-a, but Guilder-a would-a be fine-a too. Doubt those-a southron giants would-a be present-a here." He added with a mumble.

QuintonBeck

2014-04-26, 06:27 PM

"Ahh, yes. Has it been fifty years already? Time sure flies." The shirtless man smiled. The older man walked up to them, scratching at his scars near his blind eye. "If-a you could-a take us to-a the Regina, we'd-a be-a very grateful. Doubly so if-a there is-a any people from-a--" "--Criiima!" The old man frowned, making his blind eye look especially menacing. "Sure-a, but Guilder-a would-a be fine-a too. Doubt those-a southron giants would-a be present-a here." He added with a mumble.

"No Cree here," she said, the confusion apparent in her voice, "But I can take you to see the Regina and I think I saw the Doge around."

She begins to lead the men towards the main party area and more acutely towards the Regina's pavilion.

"So, where are you folks from?"

lt_murgen

2014-04-26, 06:34 PM

And it's a pleasure to meet you, too, finally, having heard so much about you.

Jonas bowed politely. As he did, his hand reflexively came up to press against the leather half-mask that obscured part of his face. The same side that, despite the hot weather, he wore a long shirt and glove. "I have not spoken to my sister for many years. My duties lay elsewhere." He looked at Shvedristi briefly. "But if your son makes my sister happy, then I too am happy." His tone was far to neutral to communicate any true happiness, however.

The old man in the boat:
As Mira and the old man make their way through the party, several porters, both male and female, notice them. A middle aged female porter, still looking quite buxom and fit, approaches the pair, asking politely if they needed anything.

This was done partially to distract them from the Quill porters, all long limbed strong males, casually shadowing the uninvited guest.

OOC: You didn't think we wouldn't have security, did you?

Aedilred

2014-04-26, 06:59 PM

Jonas bowed politely. As he did, his hand reflexively came up to press against the leather half-mask that obscured part of his face. The same side that, despite the hot weather, he wore a long shirt and glove. "I have not spoken to my sister for many years. My duties lay elsewhere." He looked at Shvedristi briefly. "But if your son makes my sister happy, then I too am happy." His tone was far to neutral to communicate any true happiness, however.
"I will make her a queen!" a voice called out, and Athelmere approached, smiling. It was unclear how much of the conversation he had witnessed, but it seemed likely it was only the last moments of it. "Queen of the Jarrs, aye, and the Venns and the Isles too, if I can. Whether that makes her happy-" he spread his hands - "but I can give you my word I'll do everything in my power to try."

He glanced sidelong at his father as he said it, but spoke to Jonas. The Jarrs had hitherto no custom of calling their kings' consorts queens, but it was clear Mere was not asking permission, nor did the king object. Mere seemed to have grown since Athelmark had last seen him, the last remnants of the hesitant, nervous boy he once was had vanished. He stood, and spoke, with confidence, his voice warm but decisive, with a sense of finality about it. At last, he looked and sounded, his father thought with approval, like a king.

Mere continued to speak to Jonas. "Tempest is around here somewhere, and I'm sure she'd be pleased to see you. It would be a shame to be so close and to miss each other after so long. We weren't sure if you were coming, so we left a gift for you with your mother, make sure she gives it to you." He extended a hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you at long last. Will you take my hand as a friend, or embrace me as a brother?"

Having received Jonas's response, he turned to Shvedri and bowed. "Milady. My father asked me to meet him here and speak with you."

Athelmark nodded, and his eyes flickered momentarily towards Jonas's scarred face. "If you can spare us some time, milady, I would like to speak with you about my daughter."

WaylanderX

2014-04-26, 07:53 PM

Jonas bowed politely. As he did, his hand reflexively came up to press against the leather half-mask that obscured part of his face. The same side that, despite the hot weather, he wore a long shirt and glove. "I have not spoken to my sister for many years. My duties lay elsewhere." He looked at Shvedristi briefly. "But if your son makes my sister happy, then I too am happy." His tone was far to neutral to communicate any true happiness, however.

The old man in the boat:
As Mira and the old man make their way through the party, several porters, both male and female, notice them. A middle aged female porter, still looking quite buxom and fit, approaches the pair, asking politely if they needed anything.

This was done partially to distract them from the Quill porters, all long limbed strong males, casually shadowing the uninvited guest.

OOC: You didn't think we wouldn't have security, did you?

*OOC: I think it were 3 people in total. So its not a pair, its 2 pair!

After concluding his trade business, Grïend decided to give the island a better look, Eleljak having woken up and merry singing a Bucka drinking song, his flagon of wine firmly in his hand.

Then he saw something peciliar, a group of 4 people, one a child, the rest mature or old, walking through the crowd, being cassually shadowed by the guards of the Jewelled people. The old human had a giant scar on his face, being blind in one eye. He must have an interesting story to tell, if he got so much attention. Could be interesting. He didn't have anything more interesting to do anyway. He joined the four people.

"GREETINGS...STRANGERS......I AM GRÏEND...OF THE HUROSHA EMPIRE......THIS IS MY FRIEND...ELELJAK......WHAT BRINGS YOU...TO THESE FESTIVITIES?"

Eleljak bowed over Grïend's shoulder, shouting merrily:

"To drink *hik* of curse, wheh wud anyun come toh a parteh for........"

A sudden glance of recognision passed over Eleljak's face when he broke off his sentence.

"Ar ya an illeson *hik* mat? Becus I mean, yu cat beh her. Ey shud drink moar. *HIK* BEACUASE TIS CAT BE RIT! U ARH DEPD."

He took a gulp from his wine, looked at the people of the boat and continued:

"I men, effe a Buckah sug a mesef *hik* cat beh wron abut tis. A WODHES KEWSEL KERNEWEK?!?!"

With this last shout, he sunk back unto his sitting spot on Grïend's shoulder and snored loudly, fast asleep.

zabbarot

2014-04-26, 07:55 PM

"The gnomes spoke little until the sun had set. Once darkness fell, the gnomes removed their veils to reveal wrinkled, pure white faces with stippled purple tattoos. They sat near the campfire, but remained in the shadows of their larger companions. They seemed to absorb their surroundings like coral sponges, but mostly they were fascinated with the fire. "[COLOR="#696969"]Astraniz," Dezarajacarita gasped when Shvedrishti reached into the flames. "You have varabhicaryanta?" He searched for the word. "Magic?"

After her answer, he smiled politely as she tried to pronounce his name. "Your pronounciation would be better if it were 'Deza-raja-carita,' but I applaud your efforts. My father, may his wisdom guide me still, was a noble amongst we Dhanazarmanoms. I am a historian, so my name means 'history of native princes.'" He seemed most at home observing his surroundings, but it was clear he delighted in giving instruction as well. "My colleague, Anagatavati, hails from a family who had come into prosperity only just before she was born. Her name is harder to translate, but means something akin to 'directed towards the future.' We were elected members of the Royal Council for our complimentary perspectives." He smiled knowingly. "Unless I am much mistaken, I believe your own name means 'bright eyes,' correct? I can see why, Shahidi Mkuu."

Anagatavati perked up as soon as Shvedri made mention of the heavens. "In Ayavazarmanbuh-ja--" she stopped herself and seemed to blush. "--Ayava, as it is known on the surface world, our home of Grand Delving is carved from the shores of a great underground sea. When the sun shines so brightly on the surface, our own world is lit by the night sky, which travels under Telluris and shines through the waters of the Sea of Sunken Stars." Her speech was more careful than Deza's, but she made every effort to translate her Ayavan thoughts into the common tongue.

Thanks! Raaneki is based on Hindi, so it felt only right that Ayavan come from Sanskrit. Their long names were inspired by Entish... I imagine them all to be long-winded stewards of wisdom at heart.

As for the trade: gaining osuro will fulfill my hopes and dreams since you invented it. I am more than happy with this trade. :smallbiggrin:
Shvedrishti brushed of their surprise as she had the sailors before, "After meeting the Lord of Fire this is like grasping warm sand." Dezarajacarita reminded her of the many teachers she had grown up with. "Yes it does. Though that might not be the most impressive deduction seeing as that has become my common epithet."

"The night sky travels underground? That sounds like a far more impressive magic than any parlour trick I can perform"

"I will make her a queen!" a voice called out, and Athelmere approached, smiling. It was unclear how much of the conversation he had witnessed, but it seemed likely it was only the last moments of it. "Queen of the Jarrs, aye, and the Venns and the Isles too, if I can. Whether that makes her happy-" he spread his hands - "but I can give you my word I'll do everything in my power to try."

He glanced sidelong at his father as he said it, but spoke to Jonas. The Jarrs had hitherto no custom of calling their kings' consorts queens, but it was clear Mere was not asking permission, nor did the king object. Mere seemed to have grown since Athelmark had last seen him, the last remnants of the hesitant, nervous boy he once was had vanished. He stood, and spoke, with confidence, his voice warm but decisive, with a sense of finality about it. At last, he looked and sounded, his father thought with approval, like a king.

Mere continued to speak to Jonas. "Tempest is around here somewhere, and I'm sure she'd be pleased to see you. It would be a shame to be so close and to miss each other after so long. We weren't sure if you were coming, so we left a gift for you with your mother, make sure she gives it to you." He extended a hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you at long last. Will you take my hand as a friend, or embrace me as a brother?"

Having received Jonas's response, he turned to Shvedri and bowed. "Milady. My father asked me to meet him here and speak with you."

Athelmark nodded, and his eyes flickered momentarily towards Jonas's scarred face. "If you can spare us some time, milady, I would like to speak with you about my daughter."

"Of course, anything I can do. Jonas, please be kind."

Sorry I've been so busy today : | Hopefully we can get this wherever it's going now, eh?

Aedilred

2014-04-26, 08:25 PM

"Of course, anything I can do. Jonas, please be kind."
The king gestured to Jonas in a way that suggested he was more than welcome to stay or to leave as he pleased, and addressed Shvedri directly.

"Milady, I was at the Grand Ball, though we did not speak and you will have no reason to remember me." He paused and ran a hand through his long grey hair, as if he had thought over exactly what he planned to say and had now completely forgotten. "My daughter was standing some distance away from the circle and- she did not survive." He spoke sadly, but not harshly, while Athelmere regarded her with a sort of wary caution. "I am past the point of any rancour or bitterness, but I have thought of this often over the last five years and I am no closer to understanding what happened that night, why the Lord of Fire burned so many, his followers and foes, commoners and kings, the innocent and the bloodstained alike.

"Empress Syana tells me you are a very wise young woman, and I would value your counsel, for my son's sake as much as my own."

Morph Bark

2014-04-26, 08:27 PM

"No Cree here," she said, the confusion apparent in her voice, "But I can take you to see the Regina and I think I saw the Doge around."

She begins to lead the men towards the main party area and more acutely towards the Regina's pavilion.

"So, where are you folks from?"

The old man in the boat:
As Mira and the old man make their way through the party, several porters, both male and female, notice them. A middle aged female porter, still looking quite buxom and fit, approaches the pair, asking politely if they needed anything.

This was done partially to distract them from the Quill porters, all long limbed strong males, casually shadowing the uninvited guest.

OOC: You didn't think we wouldn't have security, did you?

"From Criiima!" The shirtless man answers jovially, followed by an elbow bump from the old man. "An-a ocean or due away, one might-a say. Possibly three." "I do not think they are still connected, though, after... Y'know."

The old man sighed. "Santa Isabella help me, if-a you do not stop that... Go wait-a by the rowboat-a. I will-a handle the business-a." The shirtless man grumbled something about joking and not even trusting the old man with telling someone where north on a map was, but he remained behind. The old man kept walking with Mira, gestured for the boy to come along and made a movement with his hand beside his had. "He has drunk-a the seawater."

The old man's expression seemed to lighten up at the sight of a buxom lady of fit and dark appearance asking him if he needed anything. "Not yet-a, bella, but I might-a require a nightly tour-a later." He mentioned with a casual grin.

The shirtless man saw it happen from afar and shook his head disapprovingly. His eyes widened when he was approached by a giant animated crystal and he reached over his shoulder for a weapon that was not there. The appearance pf Eleljak surprised him, doubly so since the goblin was out cold within ten seconds after spouting a lot of confusing, garbled sentences. "Goblins, can't hold their liquor, even if they will rob all of it from ya, eh? So, what are you supposed to be, rocky guy?"

QuintonBeck

2014-04-26, 08:41 PM

The old man in the boat:
As Mira and the old man make their way through the party, several porters, both male and female, notice them. A middle aged female porter, still looking quite buxom and fit, approaches the pair, asking politely if they needed anything.

This was done partially to distract them from the Quill porters, all long limbed strong males, casually shadowing the uninvited guest.

"From Criiima!" The shirtless man answers jovially, followed by an elbow bump from the old man. "An-a ocean or due away, one might-a say. Possibly three." "I do not think they are still connected, though, after... Y'know."

The old man sighed. "Santa Isabella help me, if-a you do not stop that... Go wait-a by the rowboat-a. I will-a handle the business-a." The shirtless man grumbled something about joking and not even trusting the old man with telling someone where north on a map was, but he remained behind. The old man kept walking with Mira, gestured for the boy to come along and made a movement with his hand beside his had. "He has drunk-a the seawater."

The old man's expression seemed to lighten up at the sight of a buxom lady of fit and dark appearance asking him if he needed anything. "Not yet-a, bella, but I might-a require a nightly tour-a later." He mentioned with a casual grin.

"They were asking to see the Regina," Mira volunteered to the JC porter, "They're from a Crima, but not our Crima?" she added, confusion apparent.

zabbarot

2014-04-26, 10:24 PM

The king gestured to Jonas in a way that suggested he was more than welcome to stay or to leave as he pleased, and addressed Shvedri directly.

"Milady, I was at the Grand Ball, though we did not speak and you will have no reason to remember me." He paused and ran a hand through his long grey hair, as if he had thought over exactly what he planned to say and had now completely forgotten. "My daughter was standing some distance away from the circle and- she did not survive." He spoke sadly, but not harshly, while Athelmere regarded her with a sort of wary caution. "I am past the point of any rancour or bitterness, but I have thought of this often over the last five years and I am no closer to understanding what happened that night, why the Lord of Fire burned so many, his followers and foes, commoners and kings, the innocent and the bloodstained alike.

"Empress Syana tells me you are a very wise young woman, and I would value your counsel, for my son's sake as much as my own."

Shvedrishti looked down at her hands for a moment, then at the names tattooed on her arms. Each of the mashahidi who had died that night was memorialized on her skin. The names spiraled up her arms and onto her back. "That night was an act of hubris. King Tendaji believed that we could invoke the Lord of Fire in a controlled setting to awaken the Blazing Avatar. You see there was a prophecy. One of war and destruction. The Blazing Temple was fracturing without the Avatar, and we feared that prophecy would soon come true. Tendaji felt it was our place to ensure this didn't happen. After all I was friends with the previous Avatar. He believed it was the place of those who followed Radurja to be the bridge between gods and men, and between different faiths. So he planned the event. He wanted it at the ball so none could deny that the Lord of Fire had truly come and revealed his avatar.

But we were not prepared for the flames. They consume what they touch, not because they wish to, but because that is their nature. If you were to reach into this fire here would you blame it for burning your hand? You couldn't. And we should have known better. We brought a divine aspect of fire into a crowded room and asked it to awaken the avatar. Of course the awakening would involve more fire. I was raised on the stories. There is a crater in Raaneka. From where the last Avatar awoke. When that divine spark first awakens within him it is overwhelming. It overtakes him, and act as fire. Do not confuse fire and the Lord of Fire though. Fire does not care about innocence or guilt. Fire does not care. It simply exists. It moves from one fuel to another simply to continue it's own existence. The Lord of Fire is a living being of passion, and will. He did not burn anyone, he had left the room by then.

Aedilred

2014-04-26, 11:20 PM

"So that was all it was," Athelmere said with a hollow chuckle. "My sister, all those people - died for the sake of the Genivanian king's pride. The Lord of Fire was not to blame."

The king nods solemnly - it seemed he had reached this conclusion previously, but was glad to have it confirmed.

"It was the fault of mortals," Athelmere continued, sounding more bitter now. "Prideful mortals who sought to meddle in the world of spirits, mortals who believe they know better than the gods, whether they be priests or kings. How can we ever again trust the words of mortals in these matters? The selfsame mortals who even now roam our homeland spreading their doctrine, every step they take tramping down the earth on Eirwynn's grave. Our ancestors never created rituals that burned their family members. Our ancestors-"

"Our ancestors lived in the hills like frightened sheep," growled the king. "It was not our ancestors who crowned me on the Atteltor. It was not our ancestors who brought our people together. Our ancestors did not save my father, nor my uncles, from deaths before their times, nor would I count on them to protect me. I respect and venerate our ancestors but they are the past, Athelmere, not the future nor even the present!"

Athelmark turned back to Shvedri. "I have been an unworthy follower of the Lord of Fire these past thirty years. I have taken the support of his priests and done nothing to support them, and now I fear a conflict is coming to my lands." He put his hands over his eyes and suddenly seemed very old. "I feel as though I have tried to lead my people out of the darkness, and all I have done is walk them into a fire. Now they are being burned, many of them want to turn back into the dark - and as you see, even my family is divided." He looked almost imploring - as if he wanted to, but couldn't bring himself to voice the words: I don't know what to do.

WaylanderX

2014-04-27, 05:00 AM

"From Criiima!" The shirtless man answers jovially, followed by an elbow bump from the old man. "An-a ocean or due away, one might-a say. Possibly three." "I do not think they are still connected, though, after... Y'know."

The old man sighed. "Santa Isabella help me, if-a you do not stop that... Go wait-a by the rowboat-a. I will-a handle the business-a." The shirtless man grumbled something about joking and not even trusting the old man with telling someone where north on a map was, but he remained behind. The old man kept walking with Mira, gestured for the boy to come along and made a movement with his hand beside his had. "He has drunk-a the seawater."

The old man's expression seemed to lighten up at the sight of a buxom lady of fit and dark appearance asking him if he needed anything. "Not yet-a, bella, but I might-a require a nightly tour-a later." He mentioned with a casual grin.

The shirtless man saw it happen from afar and shook his head disapprovingly. His eyes widened when he was approached by a giant animated crystal and he reached over his shoulder for a weapon that was not there. The appearance pf Eleljak surprised him, doubly so since the goblin was out cold within ten seconds after spouting a lot of confusing, garbled sentences. "Goblins, can't hold their liquor, even if they will rob all of it from ya, eh? So, what are you supposed to be, rocky guy?"

Grïend looked over his shoulder to Eleljak, shaking his head in disapproval.

"HE HAS DRANK TOO MUCH...MY APOLOGIES. I AM...MENHÎRIN...THE INHABITANTS OF GWRÎSTÎN...UNDER THE LOVING LEADERSHIP...OF EMPRESS NYLLANA EARTHGUARD......MAY HER PROWESS NEVER FADE."

Giving the stranger a good look, he continued:

"AND WHO...ARE YOU SUPPOSED TO BE...FLESHLING?"

Morph Bark

2014-04-27, 09:24 AM

"They were asking to see the Regina," Mira volunteered to the JC porter, "They're from a Crima, but not our Crima?" she added, confusion apparent.

"Like-a I said, seawater." The old man reaffirmed. "I'm-a from the Florin-a Isles of the Eastern Seas-a by birth. Marina, the sea, she's-a the one I've-a traversed most of-a my life."

Grïend looked over his shoulder to Eleljak, shaking his head in disapproval.

"HE HAS DRANK TOO MUCH...MY APOLOGIES. I AM...MENHÎRIN...THE INHABITANTS OF GWRÎSTÎN...UNDER THE LOVING LEADERSHIP...OF EMPRESS NYLLANA EARTHGUARD......MAY HER PROWESS NEVER FADE."

Giving the stranger a good look, he continued:

"AND WHO...ARE YOU SUPPOSED TO BE...FLESHLING?"

"Nyllana? Hmmm..." The stranger pondered, keeping his face straight. "I am... uh..." He sniffed in thought. "Bath. Bath... Sail... Guy. Bath Sailguy Ignatio Hummus... the Fourth! Of Kaaphoek."

Zap Dynamic

2014-04-27, 10:51 AM

Shvedrishti brushed of their surprise as she had the sailors before, "After meeting the Lord of Fire this is like grasping warm sand." Dezarajacarita reminded her of the many teachers she had grown up with. "Yes it does. Though that might not be the most impressive deduction seeing as that has become my common epithet."

"The night sky travels underground? That sounds like a far more impressive magic than any parlour trick I can perform"
Sorry I've been so busy today : | Hopefully we can get this wherever it's going now, eh?

The gnomes looked at one another, tittering in their own tongue at length. Ana, the shorter of the two of them, stood and approached Shvedri. She all but had to close her eyes in the full light of the fire, but she bowed low with grace. "Shahidi Mkuu Shvedrishti Bright Eyes, the Dhanazarmanoms of Ayavazarmanbuh-ja, the darkness where knowledge is kept safe, would be honored if we might be the chroniclers and scholars of your faith. Even with the burning of Kevanubhadarz in days long past, we believe there are none in the world above who would prove our equals in objective observation and critical analysis. Put us to any mystery or task of the mind, and we will not disappoint you. In return, we ask only that you share what you know of this magic. We yearn to recover all that history has lost, and magic is greatest among the records of our people."

No worries! Are the three of us together? I thought Aedilred had approach Shvedri when she was alone with Jonas.