EMPIRE! The Second International Council (YR 436)

[Logic]

War.

War had motivated this most recent summit, and so Celero had invited the nations of Telluris to another council. "Demanded another council" was more correct, but Celero knew it was not the superpower it desired to be.

Little had changed in Propinlonge since the last meeting of nations. It was still a hot, humid territory that was a haven for biting insects and inhospitable flora. King Rion's mother - Queen Amalia the Just, as the historions had begun to call her - had overseen the prior international summit, and while it did not achieve all the intended goals, it was not a fruitless endeavor either.

Now with a large scale war in the Imperium - right next door as far as the people of Propinlonge were concerned - King Rion had decided to broach the subject of humanitarian aid to the international community.

Something will have to be agreed upon. The King thought. If nothing else, maybe they'll agree to my proposed banner. He mused and chuckled to himself.

[QuintonBeck]

Senator Zahra Nkemdelim of the Triumvirate Province of Genivana arrived at Propinlonge accompanied by five Jarrland Scriveners and two Triumviral sergeants of the Southern Army. He was a dark man with dark features, though his short hair was tinged a ruddy orange from his Genimawa heritage. He had been appointed by Speaker Aluic Shaeldtae as the Triumvirate's Senate Ambassador to the International Council since the last Council meeting had been called. It was a bit of a mouthful of a title and one that carried little weight and rarely came up in practice seeing as the Council was only just now meeting for a second session.

Nonetheless it was seen as a great honor and as a sign of favor to the Reformists that Aluic had cast the tie breaking vote to one of their number to represent them internationally. Doubtless it was in truth due to Zahra's experience negotiating with the Kobold's following their induction into the Triumvirate and simply an extension of thought that concluded if he was capable of diplomacy among the denizens of the Tunneldom he might stand a chance amidst the international community. He had been given authorization to speak for the Senate and if need be the Triumvirate as a whole, given special dispensation for the Council meetings to do so, though he and most suspected that given the trend of the last meeting such legitimate actions would not be necessary.

The Senator/Ambassador was well versed in Triumviral Politics and knew the desires of the Triad Council, he would do his best to represent them here.

He entered the Council Chamber and bowed to the Celerese King,

"Your majesty, it is an honor. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Senator Zahra Nkemdelim, appointed Ambassador of the Triumvirate Senate to these proceedings, I act with full authority granted to me on behalf of the Triad Council," he produced a letter that contained the official mark of the Triad Council authorizing him to speak at the International Council.

"Perhaps while we wait," he said after their introductions, "You could tell me of the desires for this particular Council? The record I read over regarding the First Council spoke of wildly disparate ideas leading to little resolution."

[Logic]

Senator Zahra Nkemdelim of the Triumvirate Province of Genivana arrived at Propinlonge accompanied by five Jarrland Scriveners and two Triumviral sergeants of the Southern Army. He was a dark man with dark features, though his short hair was tinged a ruddy orange from his Genimawa heritage. He had been appointed by Speaker Aluic Shaeldtae as the Triumvirate's Senate Ambassador to the International Council since the last Council meeting had been called. It was a bit of a mouthful of a title and one that carried little weight and rarely came up in practice seeing as the Council was only just now meeting for a second session.

Nonetheless it was seen as a great honor and as a sign of favor to the Reformists that Aluic had cast the tie breaking vote to one of their number to represent them internationally. Doubtless it was in truth due to Zahra's experience negotiating with the Kobold's following their induction into the Triumvirate and simply an extension of thought that concluded if he was capable of diplomacy among the denizens of the Tunneldom he might stand a chance amidst the international community. He had been given authorization to speak for the Senate and if need be the Triumvirate as a whole, given special dispensation for the Council meetings to do so, though he and most suspected that given the trend of the last meeting such legitimate actions would not be necessary.

The Senator/Ambassador was well versed in Triumviral Politics and knew the desires of the Triad Council, he would do his best to represent them here.

He entered the Council Chamber and bowed to the Celerese King,

"Your majesty, it is an honor. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Senator Zahra Nkemdelim, appointed Ambassador of the Triumvirate Senate to these proceedings, I act with full authority granted to me on behalf of the Triad Council," he produced a letter that contained the official mark of the Triad Council authorizing him to speak at the International Council.

"Perhaps while we wait," he said after their introductions, "You could tell me of the desires for this particular Council? The record I read over regarding the First Council spoke of wildly disparate ideas leading to little resolution."

"Though my mother's goals were lofty, she failed to realize that focus should be the rule of the day." King Rion replied.

"I seek to establish an international aid organization; one that would be recognized as non-combatants in a warzone." The Celerese man paused a moment, and looked to the new banner situated in the middle of the room.

"I also hope to establish an emblem to easily recognize those that would provide aid. All of the details are in my proposal, but I hope to adopt the banner situated in the middle of the room." With this, the King gestured to the lone flag. It bore a cross made of golden braids on a red heart, all on a checkered field of black and white.

[Lord_Burch]

Councillor Francois Giroux- appointee of Lady Alice to lead the Concordant's international affairs, and also a prominent member of the Reformist Faction in Bordeux- approached the Council building with some amount of distaste, though he made sure to keep it from showing. Used to the colder climate of the mountains of Bordeux, as well as the lack of aggressive, stinging insects, he approached the position of representative with some trepidation. In addition, he was somewhat limited in experience- while he had dealing with foreign traders, he had never attended the gatherings of rulers where decisions were made.

Still, he had his orders, and if he advanced his own agenda, too- well, that was just icing on the cake.

-----

Francois approached the King, his face expressionless- after all, why greet a man he had never met with friendly gestures? That was not the way of Bordeux.

Bowing low,King Rion, greetings from Lady Alice. She and her daughter, the Lady Miranda, regret not attending in person; however, an important meeting among clan chiefs in Errelosse- one which occurs only once in a hundred years- required their utmost attention. In their stead, I come to speak as Lady Alice's voice.

[Logic]

Councillor Francois Giroux- appointee of Lady Alice to lead the Concordant's international affairs, and also a prominent member of the Reformist Faction in Bordeux- approached the Council building with some amount of distaste, though he made sure to keep it from showing. Used to the colder climate of the mountains of Bordeux, as well as the lack of aggressive, stinging insects, he approached the position of representative with some trepidation. In addition, he was somewhat limited in experience- while he had dealing with foreign traders, he had never attended the gatherings of rulers where decisions were made.

Still, he had his orders, and if he advanced his own agenda, too- well, that was just icing on the cake.

-----

Francois approached the King, his face expressionless- after all, why greet a man he had never met with friendly gestures? That was not the way of Bordeux.

Bowing low,King Rion, greetings from Lady Alice. She and her daughter, the Lady Miranda, regret not attending in person; however, an important meeting among clan chiefs in Errelosse- one which occurs only once in a hundred years- required their utmost attention. In their stead, I come to speak as Lady Alice's voice.

"The apologies of your Queen and Heir Apparent are not neccesary. However, you have not yet properly introduced yourself." King Rion raised an eyebrow as he said this. "So I do hope you'll forgive me when I do not know your name or how to address you." Now, Rion assumed a less confrontational tone.

"I am King Rion, of House Noth, sovereign lord of Celero and her territories. It is my aim today to establish a treaty governing non-combatants in a time of war. Specifically, humanitarians providing aid to civilian refugees in or fleeing a warzone."

[Lord_Burch]

"The apologies of your Queen and Heir Apparent are not neccesary. However, you have not yet properly introduced yourself." King Rion raised an eyebrow as he said this. "So I do hope you'll forgive me when I do not know your name or how to address you." Now, Rion assumed a less confrontational tone.

"I am King Rion, of House Noth, sovereign lord of Celero and her territories. It is my aim today to establish a treaty governing non-combatants in a time of war. Specifically, humanitarians providing aid to civilian refugees in or fleeing a warzone."

Of course, King. Apologies, mentally kicking himself. Just started, and already on the wrong foot. I am Councillor Francois Giroux, the recently-appointed international representative of the Concordant. As befitting a higher rank than my own, you may refer to me as my internal position, Councillor, or my international, Representative.

[lt_murgen]

Opus Petrichor, Regent of the Jeweled Cities and Sagamore of Tar, made a quiet entrance. He knew much of what would be proposed, and his opinions would matter little. Great empires seldom heed the small voices.

"Greetings, great King. I hope that this Council exceeds your expectations." He said formally.

Joh LaFitte hung back. He was here only to make certain the doddering old fool didn't do anything stupid.

[QuintonBeck]

"Though my mother's goals were lofty, she failed to realize that focus should be the rule of the day." King Rion replied.

"I seek to establish an international aid organization; one that would be recognized as non-combatants in a warzone." The Celerese man paused a moment, and looked to the new banner situated in the middle of the room.

"I also hope to establish an emblem to easily recognize those that would provide aid. All of the details are in my proposal, but I hope to adopt the banner situated in the middle of the room." With this, the King gestured to the lone flag. It bore a cross made of golden braids on a red heart, all on a checkered field of black and white.

"Such would certainly seem palatable," the Senator nodded, "Let us see if it is as acceptable as hoped."

[SamBurke]

Of course, King. Apologies, mentally kicking himself. Just started, and already on the wrong foot. I am Councillor Francois Giroux, the recently-appointed international representative of the Concordant. As befitting a higher rank than my own, you may refer to me as my internal position, Councillor, or my international, Representative.

I believe the army that is stationed in Salteire has orders similar to that, though I do not think our opponents were governed similarly. In addition, I am of the opinion there should be treaties governing invading armies- specifically, that they do not bring harm to private property or industry. Though that may be a harder sell than a medical organization.

Guilder arrives at the Council, ready to hear peace. "I have been sworn to an oath by my forefathers: whenever on the battlefield, seek peace. If you are defending another, seek peace. If you are defending yourself, seek peace. If, forbid it, you are forced to lead the armies out against any foe, seek a reconciliation afterwards. Seek peace. In the name of that oath, I am here: I seek it."

[TheDarkDM]

The sound of scurrying footfalls preceded the arrival of the Tzaltec delegation, as the servants of the palace scrambled to hide from the dread slavers of the east. As thy entered, those who had attended the most recent Grand Ball recognized Senusret, potential heir of Nezetkhamun and general of the Dragon Knights. He worse an angular black robe, its sleeves and collar embroidered in red thread and miniature rubies to resemble flames, and behind him crowded the now-familiar assortment of bodyguards and seneschals that attended to Tzaltec affairs of state.

"Greetings from the Tzaltec Empire, good King Rion. My father, blessed be his name, sends his warmest regards."

The Tzaltec man bowed slightly before moving to take a seat alongside the Doge of Guilder.

"Greetings, brother. How fares my dear sister?"

[lt_murgen]

At some point when there was no official activity going on, the Tzaltec delegation is approached by John LaFitte, Senior Councillor to the AQUA. He shows appropriate deference to Sensruset, and does a passable version of their formal greeting. After exchanging pleasntries, he gets right to the point.

"I hear rumors of a most unusal child being born in your lands. I would purchase the boy and his family, if he is available." He names a price that is easily 10X the going rate, per slave.

[Logic]

Of course, King. Apologies, mentally kicking himself. Just started, and already on the wrong foot. I am Councillor Francois Giroux, the recently-appointed international representative of the Concordant. As befitting a higher rank than my own, you may refer to me as my internal position, Councillor, or my international, Representative.
"Thank you, Councillor Giroux. I apologize in advance if I refer to you as 'Lord' or 'Senator' from time to time. It is a force of habit. Now, if you'll please take your seat and begin looking over the propsal there, we shall begin shortly."

Opus Petrichor, Regent of the Jeweled Cities and Sagamore of Tar, made a quiet entrance. He knew much of what would be proposed, and his opinions would matter little. Great empires seldom heed the small voices.

"Greetings, great King. I hope that this Council exceeds your expectations." He said formally.

Joh LaFitte hung back. He was here only to make certain the doddering old fool didn't do anything stupid.
"Comrade Petrichor, it pleases me you could attend." Rion's body language was not as warm as his tone and words, yet the sincerity in his voice was convincing.

"Such would certainly seem palatable," the Senator nodded, "Let us see if it is as acceptable as hoped."


Guilder arrives at the Council, ready to hear peace. "I have been sworn to an oath by my forefathers: whenever on the battlefield, seek peace. If you are defending another, seek peace. If you are defending yourself, seek peace. If, forbid it, you are forced to lead the armies out against any foe, seek a reconciliation afterwards. Seek peace. In the name of that oath, I am here: I seek it."


The sound of scurrying footfalls preceded the arrival of the Tzaltec delegation, as the servants of the palace scrambled to hide from the dread slavers of the east. As thy entered, those who had attended the most recent Grand Ball recognized Senusret, potential heir of Nezetkhamun and general of the Dragon Knights. He worse an angular black robe, its sleeves and collar embroidered in red thread and miniature rubies to resemble flames, and behind him crowded the now-familiar assortment of bodyguards and seneschals that attended to Tzaltec affairs of state.

"Greetings from the Tzaltec Empire, good King Rion. My father, blessed be his name, sends his warmest regards."

The Tzaltec man bowed slightly before moving to take a seat alongside the Doge of Guilder.

"Greetings, brother. How fares my dear sister?"

"Gentlemen, ladies, lords and representatives: I have asked you here today to sign a simple treaty with simple terms. The goals are lofty, but I find it hard to believe they could be found unreasonable." Rion paused a moment, and drank from a glass of water at the podium.

"The war to our immediate east has left thousands homeless. Refugees are abandoning thier homes in droves to flee the war, and unchecked soldiers on both sides are causing great distruction to the civilian populace. These refugees lack food, shelter, and adequate medical care. I hope this treaty will stem such events in the future. What I am formally proposing is an organization, with the recognition of the international community, as being permitted to travel across borders freely, for the sole duty of providing aid such as temporary shelter, food, and medical expertise. The details are in the documents before you, but the points have yet to be debated."

[Aedilred]

There was a distant sound of footsteps, punctuated by a metallic tapping, and eventually a handful of figures appeared in the doorway of the council chamber. At their head was a stooped figure, clad in green and gold, leaning heavily on a cane. He limped around the table to the place set for the Carmine delegation, accompanied by a Niskan woman in her early twenties, and jerked his head in some approximation of a bow at King Rion.

"I apologise for my late arrival, lord king," he growled. "I don't walk as quickly as I used to. I am Siggi Jatten-Sunder, Earl of Jatham, and King Alfmark's representative at this summit."

At the Grand Ball a mere five years earlier, Siggi had been a handsome eighteen-year-old, but the intervening years had taken a terrible toll. His age and expression were nearly impossible to discern, for much of his face was heavily scarred, and the rest concealed under a mask of mithril. His left arm ended at the elbow, a large and ugly iron prosthetic making up the rest, while the trailing of his leg suggested some permanent damage there.

He looked around at the other delegates, and, with the help of his companion, manoeuvred himself into a position where he could collapse into a chair. He reached out for the document in front of him, and, after a few failed attempts to manipulate it with his iron hand, grabbed at it with his right impatiently.

[Lord_Burch]

"Gentlemen, ladies, lords and representatives: I have asked you here today to sign a simple treaty with simple terms. The goals are lofty, but I find it hard to believe they could be found unreasonable." Rion paused a moment, and drank from a glass of water at the podium.

"The war to our immediate east has left thousands homeless. Refugees are abandoning thier homes in droves to flee the war, and unchecked soldiers on both sides are causing great distruction to the civilian populace. These refugees lack food, shelter, and adequate medical care. I hope this treaty will stem such events in the future. What I am formally proposing is an organization, with the recognition of the international community, as being permitted to travel across borders freely, for the sole duty of providing aid such as temporary shelter, food, and medical expertise. The details are in the documents before you, but the points have yet to be debated."

A noble goal, King. Of that, I am sure, we can agree.But noble words and intentions do not translate to worthy actions. By all means, we should assist those whose livelihoods are endangered by war and strife. But, you say that it is the soldiers who cause the problems, no? By extension, I would think it would be best to put the cost of such destruction on the heads of the invaders- the ones whose attack caused the distress accompanying these wars, and the destruction of property end endangerment of life.

[Aedilred]

Siggi swivelled to look at the councillor. "As in the west these last years and the invasions of the disputed land between Ri Chugang and Valterre? In any case, sir, I can assure you the cost of this destruction" - he raised his metal hand - "has been borne entirely by the victim."

Such was the ruin of his face it was impossible to judge his levity.

He turned back to Rion. "In any case, while I understand the intention behind the suggestion, it seems to me to be flawed in two major respects. First, it assumes that the invader is necessarily responsible for any such destruction, where in reality the defender may bear equal or greater blame. Indeed, an invasion might be motivated entirely by the philanthropic principles this council is here to promote, to prevent further or greater suffering or loss of life. Second, entrusting a belligerent with the wellbeing of foreign subjects its armies displace seems to run counter to common sense.

"While I can agree that ultimately the responsible party should bear the cost of its actions - where that is possible, and often it is not - the time it would take for that party to be identified would be prohibitive to providing the necessary aid. It would seem sensible for there to be a neutral and impartial body to provide emergency assistance while it is needed, and worry about the cost later - such cost to form part of any peace settlement and reparations, and so on."

[WaylanderX]

Siggi swivelled to look at the councillor. "As in the west these last years and the invasions of the disputed land between Ri Chugang and Valterre? In any case, sir, I can assure you the cost of this destruction" - he raised his metal hand - "has been borne entirely by the victim."

Such was the ruin of his face it was impossible to judge his levity.

He turned back to Rion. "In any case, while I understand the intention behind the suggestion, it seems to me to be flawed in two major respects. First, it assumes that the invader is necessarily responsible for any such destruction, where in reality the defender may bear equal or greater blame. Indeed, an invasion might be motivated entirely by the philanthropic principles this council is here to promote, to prevent further or greater suffering or loss of life. Second, entrusting a belligerent with the wellbeing of foreign subjects its armies displace seems to run counter to common sense.

"While I can agree that ultimately the responsible party should bear the cost of its actions - where that is possible, and often it is not - the time it would take for that party to be identified would be prohibitive to providing the necessary aid. It would seem sensible for there to be a neutral and impartial body to provide emergency assistance while it is needed, and worry about the cost later - such cost to form part of any peace settlement and reparations, and so on."

"And for this war, this...dispute, Hurosha shall be this neutral party." A stern voice said from the doorway.

Wayve Earthguard walked into the chamber, his arms and weaponry clanking loudly. Valineth walked at his side, looking radiant as ever. He was followed by a small delegation, consisting of the Ambassadors of Hurosha and officials of the Freehold of Faedas.

Wayve walked towards the table, eying the present rulers one by one.

"As I understood it, this war down south is an internal matter of the Salterri Imperium. I am of the opinion that what is internal, must stay internal, lest the whole world will be dragged into a whirlpool of death and devastation. Many thousand a life was lost decades ago, when the north and the south clashed. We cannot let this happen again."

Wayve walked to a chair and set down, the Ambassadors taking seats around him.

"I recieved reports and calls for help from many fronts, but I will make one thing clear. Hurosha will stop anyone who will attempt to create this whirlpool. Even if it means stopping a friend in his tracks. The Hurosha Empire will not attack anyone. But if anyone tries to attack a nation that is not part of this internal matter, we will stand firm, like a Shintouite wall, in between the invaders and the innocents. See that retaliating in fury is not Prowess, but foolish pride instead."

The Emperor nodded to Kenwyn, Ambassador of Zargrim, who stood up in response.

"My lordships, despite the threatening tone of my liege, we have also send troops and medics to eleviate the pressures of war upon the innocents of the regions in which war is currently brewing. However, we do not have any permission yet of those countries to help. I would like to ask the representative of Jarrland, Guilder, Ascension and the Salterri Imperium proper to give us this permission so we can lend our aid."

[Aedilred]

"And for this war, this...dispute, Hurosha shall be this neutral party." A stern voice said from the doorway.

Wayve Earthguard walked into the chamber, his arms and weaponry clanking loudly. Valineth walked at his side, looking radiant as ever. He was followed by a small delegation, consisting of the Ambassadors of Hurosha and officials of the Freehold of Faedas.

Wayve walked towards the table, eying the present rulers one by one.

"As I understood it, this war down south is an internal matter of the Salterri Imperium. I am of the opinion that what is internal, must stay internal, lest the whole world will be dragged into a whirlpool of death and devastation. Many thousand a life was lost decades ago, when the north and the south clashed. We cannot let this happen again."

Wayve walked to a chair and set down, the Ambassadors taking seats around him.

"I recieved reports and calls for help from many fronts, but I will make one thing clear. Hurosha will stop anyone who will attempt to create this whirlpool. Even if it means stopping a friend in his tracks. The Hurosha Empire will not attack anyone. But if anyone tries to attack a nation that is not part of this internal matter, we will stand firm, like a Shintouite wall, in between the invaders and the innocents. See that retaliating in fury is not Prowess, but foolish pride instead."

The Emperor nodded to Kenwyn, Ambassador of Zargrim, who stood up in response.

"My lordships, despite the threatening tone of my liege, we have also send troops and medics to eleviate the pressures of war upon the innocents of the regions in which war is currently brewing. However, we do not have any permission yet of those countries to help. I would like to ask the representative of Jarrland, Guilder, Ascension and the Salterri Imperium proper to give us this permission so we can lend our aid."

Siggi pushed himself awkwardly to his feet. "As you say, lord Emperor, this is an internal matter. Nevertheless, it is an internal matter in which foreigners have chosen to involve themselves. It was not a Priory reptile which inflicted these injuries on me. I see no reason why the people of the Imperium should solely bear the cost of this war when it has been escalated and prolonged by parties, one in particular, to whom, as you rightly say, it is of no concern.

"It is important to remember that one belligerent is not entitled to dictate the terms of a conflict. When one chooses to enter into a war, one accepts the risks that come with that, including counterattack. It would be unreasonable to expect anything else.

"Nobody wishes the events of sixty years ago to be repeated, but perhaps the intervening decades have led to complacency in certain quarters, since the only enemies to be found have been barbarian tribes with no international voice and to whose conquest and subjugation the world has been happy to turn a blind eye, minor realms, to be bullied into submission, or rebels and militants, who - until now - have gone unrecognised and unmourned by foreign crowns.

"But we are not the goblins of Sahra'a, possessed of no central government, unable to project military force, nor the people of the Heartwaste of old, scattered and leaderless. Nor are we the rising nation of Tzalteclan-" he nodded to Senusret - "cowed by the amassed might of the Grand Coalition. We bow to no-one, and those who challenge our sovereignty and raise arms against our soldiers would do well to remember that.

"Nevertheless, that is to digress from the purpose of this council. My king is in separate communication with the Dawn Emperor with regard to that. As to the question of medical assistance, we have admitted such personnel and necessary equipment from Celero and AQUA to alleviate the suffering of the people and would raise no objection to the provision of more from other quarters. For reasons I hope are obvious, I cannot say we would welcome foreign troops so warmly."

[Logic]

"My good sirs, while it is evident that I have already landed missionaries and a small contingent of troops for their protection, it is currently not recognized as an act of goodwill - at least as far as the law in concerned.

"In essence, I am seeking to provide an establishment of neutral parties, that would be recognized by the signatories of my proposed treaty, that such aid workers would not be legal combatants. And, provided these aid workers do not commit crimes of their own, would not be subject to retaliation without due process of law."

"In reality, my troops have no legal standing to be present on that battlefield. They are fortunate enough to be recognized as what they are: citizens of the world aiding their fellow man. But what if these men and women were slaughtered? Should I not have righteous fury? What recompense should I be afforded? For now, it is a risk I am willing to take, and all the people there are volunteers that know exactly what is at stake. I do not want to simply write off the most empathetic of my people. Nor do I wish a war due to a misunderstanding. But Celero WILL NOT STAND IDLY BY when we can provide meaningful aid to those that have nowhere to turn."

Rion pounded his fist on the podium for extra emphasis as he uttered his declaration. He was quite pleased with himself, despite perhaps alienating a few in the room. He knew that after that display, bringing up "world heritage sites" with the company of those present was not likely a good idea, despite how much he wanted to bring it up.

A thought occurred to him, and he had a servant approach, to which he whispered instructions that none present could hear.

[DurkBlanston]

Protector of Wyrmar, Gaius Caercia and his wife, Governess of Wyrmar, Xiu-Hen Aru, arrived quietly behind the Earl of Jatham, the Jarrlander's presence keeping the small Caercian delegation from drawing too much attention and that they moved and sat beside the Jarrland ambassador only helped them be taken as members of that delegation for those unfamiliar with the differences between Caercian and Carmine styles.

As the Earl spoke and debated with the rest of the groups Gaius leaned back, his finger resting on his lips as he listened at what all was being said.

"Indeed," he added after Siggi had finished speaking, "The AQUA and Celerese relief efforts have been appreciated by those languishing in the war and Huroshan assistance in a similar manner would be welcomed. However I must query you Emperor Wayve, how is it determined which nations are allowed to get involved?"

"Your words indicate that it would be free season for those uninvolved and uninvited to attack those involved in an internal war without interference by yours or the greater international body so long as they were not attacked in turn for involving themselves? No doubt you reference Maos' attack, but such occurred only because Guilder involved itself in internal affairs. If a strike were to be made against the Bordeusi," he looked towards the Bordeusi representative without batting an eye, "Would Hurosha come to their aid despite that they have involved themselves in an internal matter? I should believe they would be just as subject to attack as Maos was when it involved itself in internal Imperium matters. If a country desires itself safe from the effects of war, it ought not get involved in them, wouldn't you agree?"

[lt_murgen]

"I believe that question si exactly why King Rion is making the propsals before us. If there existed a recognized organization to coordinate disaster and war relief, much of these questions would be resolved. Any nation that wished to assist in a specific event could do so under the flag and crest of the organization. Military troops bearing the flag and crest would be understood to be there only to protect the people providing aid. And the organization would bear the responsibility for the actions of those people." He nodded towards the king. "It is a most noble compromise."

[Lord_Burch]

It would seem to me that the greatest way to give aid is to simply avoid war? Without these petty wars, efforts could be concentrated towards greater things- but, it seems, the Imperium is hellbent on war. Likewise, I have heard tale of the arguments that occurred at this Council's predecessor about Tzaltecan's slaves. Would that not also be an internal matter, yet I recall that an especially passionate speech was made by the late Tailong Xiu. How, then, is the invasion and subsequent subjugation of the Priory any different? Zuida Rongyao and his predecessor were both popular with the people of the Priory, and the choice to secede from the Imperium was, I hear, popular. But how are such things met? With the death of innocents and the subjugation of free choice. In the words, too, directed as a threat towards me and my people, intended to cow me into submission, I hear the same echo of slavery.

[Aedilred]

"It matters not a jot how popular the decision to secede from the Imperium was within the lands of the Priory," Siggi said, "any more than leaders in Bordeux are selected to wear the crown by popular acclamation. The secession was a unilateral action taken against the express wishes of the Qzare of the day. By the laws of the Imperium, by the very treaties and charters Zanper Fidious had signed, it was treasonous, as even Rongyao himself acknowledges, and if prosecuting crimes is now comparable to slavery then I daresay every one of us present is guilty of that, including you, sir. How go Bordeux's conquests in the far west?

"In any case, the decision of Gloriosis the Ambitious, as he was then known, to persist with his father's attempted secession from the Imperium could perhaps have been borne if he did not persist in insulting the true Qzare, a man he once called brother, denying his right to rule, insisting that he, Rongyao, admitted son of a traitor, is the rightful ruler of territories that do not want him, and refusing any compromise that might see the authority of the Imperium restored to its rightful primacy, rather than reduced in status to the point any beggar might claim the title of Qzare without censure. I see no way in which this behaviour is in any way less reprehensible than the exaggerated claims made by the Priory and its allies about the true Qzare. What sovereign could accept this state of affairs?

"The Qzare Li Tailong, who, unless you have received news unknown to me, I shall refrain from declaring dead, has done everything in his power to resolve the situation peacefully and has been denied at every turn. He even took up arms to defend the lands of the Priory against attack, their defiance notwithstanding. Then two years ago he disappeared on a final diplomatic mission to attempt to resolve this issue, in the territory of a government that hates him, that makes no secret of its desire to see his bloodline excised from the Silver Throne, a government that refuses even to term him by his preferred name. I ask you, what conclusion would you draw?

"That Bordeux considers Rongyao its ally is regrettable, but it is understandable you would wish to defend your ally's interests and honour. However, I would advise you to consider the manner in which you do so." He raised his voice, apparently the only moderation in tone he was capable of. "Were we ANYWHERE ELSE-" he crashed his iron fist into the table -"I should have already called you out for this insult, sir, and it is only my respect for King Rion that has prevented me from doing so. Had I known this was to be the way of things, I should not have come."

He turned back to the king. "I apologise, lord king, but I will not stay silent and hear opprobium poured on my lord Qzare nor my king without comment. Perhaps if you were to explain the terms of this treaty you propose, it will help to dissuade further rancorous digressions."

[DurkBlanston]

"And you shall forgive my own continued belligerence as well Lord King, but Ambassador you speak of that which you do not know and it shows. My brother, Lord Protector of Palas Caercia and her holdings is pledged to the Qzare of the Imperium as defined in the Charter our father signed that so defines Li Tailong as Qzare, that makes no mention of a Silver Mandate so lauded by the Priory, and that was document signed by those who now rebel and claim to be the victimized. Rongyao, the son of a traitor to the Imperium, now claims the title Qzare and the rights to the Imperium it entails and he does so falsely. He would ask my brother, the King of Carmine, and the High King under Mularuhm to pledge themselves to him by virtue of simply claiming that which was not his by right to claim."

"Tell me Bordeusi, would you feel going to war unvindicated if in the lands of your former vassal Crima a commoner with no relation to your royal line rose up and proclaimed himself Lord of Bordeux, leading armies and making edicts using your Lord's title as his own? Would you not believe this to be an act of the utmost defiance and goading? And further when peaceful diplomatic overtures were made and steadfastly refused would you not be within your rights to punish one who would take such criminal acts as one would punish he who committed treason?"

"Bah!" Gaius threw his hands up dismissing it, "King Rion, this is not why we are here today, please, continue with your proposal if it so pleases you."

[Rizban]

"There was no decision made to secede from the Imperium," thunders Qzare Zuida Rongyao as he enters the council chamber. Though not fully armed or armored, he wears a mithril breastplate gifted to him by Mularuhm many years ago, beautifully crafted and well maintained though showing signs of heavy use. At his side is a magnifient two-handed blade of worked orichalcum, resplendent and glowing with its own internal light.

"Do not speak of what you do not know. The sole reason the Priory is fractured from the Imperium was the aggressive military assault made by the late Xiu Hanyeo in lieu of facing the accusations made against him and the continued militant aggression by those loyal to his family who oppose civil discourse. You speak as though we have not offered to return to the Imperium and give up any claims we might have, when I have personally made such offers on more than one occasion. Were the leaders of your nations honest, they would attest that I have never once demanded that any of them bend the knee to me and asked only that they stand with me against the tyranny of the Xiu family, tyrrany that has brought war to our doorstep three times now and cost the lives of tens of thousands."

After interjecting in the ongoing conversation, he turns to the host and offers a nod of courtesy.

"I apologize for such an entrance, but I could not simply stand aside while hearing falsehoods spread about my people."

[TheDarkDM]

"Yet secede you did."

Senusret had remained silent through the mounting storm of accusations, but something in the would-be Qzare's tone had clearly set him on edge. There was no fire in his words, no wild passion. Instead, he spoke with a tone sharp as tempered steel.

"Tzalteclan remains neutral in the affairs of the Imperium, but do not seek to burden us with your hypocrisy, Rongyao. You and your forefathers sowed the seeds of this chaos - at least have the character to acknowledge that."

[Rizban]

Rongyao turns to Senusret.

"I acknowledge charges were made against Hanyeo there were never answered, charges which were made in full accordance with Imperium law, first privately, then in the courts, then publicly. I admit that we have fortified ourselves against invasion. I admit we have been cut off from the Imperium, but I also affirm that we made no declaration of independence, no declaration of war, and no declaration of secession. We were full members of the Imperium until forced out of it against our own will at sword point. That is not seceding.

This charter is lauded as the highest law in the land, and my father cursed for "breaking" it. Yet none of the people who swear by the charter seem to remember that it was my father who wrote it and that it did not even exist until recently in the history of the Imperium. That it has somehow become the only law which matters and the whole justification for repeated assaults is bizarre. The focus has fallen on the letter of the law in some ways, ignores it in others, and completely ignoring the intent of the law and the authors of it, namely Zanper Fidious and Xiu Hanyeo.

And none of this is bringing peace to the region, let alone the world. So, yes, Senusret, hurl your insults and call me a hypocrite while claiming neutrality."

[Kitsanth]

"It appears that I have missed much of the discussion thus far," stated Grand Prince Vanya Nisakovich as he entered the council room.

The Niskovian delegation lead by Vanya consisted of himself, Branimir Korošec and several Ferans.

"Greetings to you King Rion, I admired what your mother sought to accomplish and hope that this conference can achieve more. With me are some of the Haljan Leikjos. I invited them along in the hope that their expertise can be of help during these discussions. I would appreciate it if someone could provide me with a summary of the discussion thus far."

With that out of the way, Vanya gestured at his companions to make themselves comfortable before seating himself at the section of table set aside for any potential Niskovian delegation.


During a break in discussion Vanya approached the Niskan woman with the Jarrland delegation.

"Vnuchka, it is good to see you well. If there is anything I can do for you... well, I made sure you knew all this before you left Niskovia. But please, Valéria, do not hesitate to send me a message if you should need anything," Vanya paused, then continued to speak much more quietly and somewhat hesitantly in the Niskan tongue, "if... I do not want to contemplate this... but if things do not go well during this conflict-" Vanya glances about surreptitiously, "-let your partner know that I will grant political asylum for your family in Niskovia should it become necessary."
Vanya signalled to Valéria that she should act as if they had discussed nothing of great consequence.

EDIT: added some detail and changed some formatting

[Rizban]

Missed this paragraph somehow.
"The Qzare Li Tailong, who, unless you have received news unknown to me, I shall refrain from declaring dead, has done everything in his power to resolve the situation peacefully and has been denied at every turn. He even took up arms to defend the lands of the Priory against attack, their defiance notwithstanding. Then two years ago he disappeared on a final diplomatic mission to attempt to resolve this issue, in the territory of a government that hates him, that makes no secret of its desire to see his bloodline excised from the Silver Throne, a government that refuses even to term him by his preferred name. I ask you, what conclusion would you draw?"Rongyao visibly tries to calm himself. The deaths of thousands of his people from the repeated invasions and the slander of those who died merely trying to defend themselves had infuriated him.

"Again, more lies. Tailong never entered our lands, unless he sneaked across the border like a thief in the night. As your own nation's representative can attest, there are checkpoints all along our borders. He never made an appearance in the Priory. Instead of even bothering to contact us about this, an unprovoked assault was launched. The first we learned of his disappearance was the declaration of war and your troops arriving to kill innocent men.

Peace was at hand. Why would we provoke a war after spending years trying to negotiate that peace? Tailong disappeared without ever entering our lands, which a heretofore undecorated general immediately used as an excuse to start a war, a needless war which saw the death of your own king. It seems to me that Tailong is too weak to control factions within his own government and got himself into trouble, for which the Priory again paid the price."

[TheDarkDM]

"While you were too weak to support your bravado in claiming the Imperium. Weakness, it seems, abounds in this debacle. If you were not willing to bloody your hands, Rongyao, you should have abandoned your father's treasonous dream when you assumed power. You lay the Salterri invasion on the heads of generals and kings, but it is your family's arrogance that has brought this storm upon Salteire."

Senusret returned the councillor's greeting with his own, an equally respectful approximation of AQUA's regional greeting. When the councillor made his offer, the only response for a moment was a quirking of Senusret's eyebrows, but then he smiled.

"It would please me greatly to accommodate you, Councillor LaFitte. Sadly, I do not keep informed of the day to day goings on of the slave population. However, I could inquire with their minders once I've returned to Tzalteclan, and see if there is indeed such a child."

[Rizban]

"It's interesting that you claim neutrality, but I hear you clearly laying full blame at my feet and upon the Priory yet hear not a hint of a whisper of blame at those who invaded and caused the slaughter. Your words say one thing, but your true colors shine through.

And, again, things are twisted. As I have just said, I never attempted to forcibly assert control over the whole of the Imperium and therefore can not have failed in the attempt. Perhaps, however, you would be singing a different tune were I to have retaliated in full after the first attack and forcibly conquered the Imperium. Would that have suited your tastes better? You call me weak, but I see no weakness in staying one's blade in a bid for peace, so long as it remains sharp and strong when war comes unbidden."

[Aedilred]

"The reason so much is made of the Imperial charter is because it is the only formalised agreement relating to government of the Imperium," Siggi said, "an agreement signed by most of us at least in good faith and which you acknowledge your father largely wrote. This same document proclaims that loyalty to the Qzare is absolute, and specifically prohibits vassals from using the title of Qzare themselves, the very title you claim, and continue to use. Yet at the first point it became inconvenient to you it was ignored. You may believe in the Silver Mandate. I may believe my arm will grow back. Mere unevidenced belief is no basis for fact, or for law." He pullled a document from a sheaf of papers with his good hand and pushed it into the middle of the table for anyone to examine.
Preamble: The Salterri Imperium exists as a unified empire with the goal of bringing peace, order, and civilization to the world. All provinces and protectorates of the empire agree to abide by the following requirements.

1. Leadership

Loyalty to the Qzare is absolute. As ruler of the Imperium, the Qzare maintains ultimate authority over the empire. The Qzare agrees never to rule unilateraly without the input of the Senate and provincial Governors unless necessary for the preservation of the Imperium.
Regions under direct control of the Silver Throne shall retain their native leadership and traditional native methods of leader selection. Said leader is granted the Imperial Title of Provincial Governor and may use this title for all legal purposes. Traditional local titles for leadership may be retained and legally used, provided said titles are not Qzare, Emperor, Senator, or derivatives thereof.
Protectorates of the Imperium shall retain their native leadership, provided that said leadership at time of acquisition meets with the approval of the Qzare. Traditional native methods of leader selection will be honored, but new leaders must be approved by the Qzare. Leaders of Imperial Protectorates are granted the Imperial Title of Provincial Lord and may use this title for all legal purposes. Traditional local titles for leadership may be retained and legally used, provided said titles are not Qzare, Emperor, Senator, Governour, or derivatives thereof.

etc.

"Tailong has committed no crime against the Priory that the Priory has ever protested. Indeed, when this 'second Xiu invasion' of which you speak so often occurred - recall that was Zhuang and the Ignato Empire, not the doing of Aus-Teire - Tailong led his armies to defend the Priory against it, notwithstanding its rebellion. You condemn him and his claim on the basis of the alleged crimes of his father Hanyeo, not on any failings of the man himself. Yet your own father was a traitor to the Imperium, convicted by the Priory's own courts and his confederates sentenced to death or exile by you, convicted of treasn for the very secession which you now stand here denying, and the reality of which you perpetuate every day you stand in defiance of the true Qzare.

"Tailong has manifestly not lost the support of the people of the Imperium, which you assert as the basis for the Silver Mandate otherwise unremarked in any document put before our crown, for tens of thousands of them took up arms to rescue him when he was believed to be in danger. Nor, whatever his failings, had Hanyeo. Not one territory of the Imperium not occupied by Salteire legions has accepted your own claim. By your own standards I judge your claim and find it wanting. By what right then, in defiance both of the law and the will of the people you claim to hold paramount, do you title yourself Qzare?"

[Rizban]

"The charter was never intended to become the sole ruling document of the entire Imperium. Its purpose was to explain and formalize the interaction between the Salterri and their vassals. Nothing more. Indeed, there are no provisions whatsoever within the charter for the transference of Qzaredom from one individual to another. Were we to take such a stern interpretation of that particular law as you are suggesting should be taken, then Hanyeo is, was, and always will be the only true Qzare, as he was Qzare when the charter was signed into law. Even Wandao was a "false Qzare" under your assertion when he returned from captivity, as would be Tailong.

I say you do not comprehend what is written there and what is intended by it. 'Loyalty to the Qzare is absolute.' The Qzare is a title and a position, a representative of the leadership of the Imperium. It is neither a person nor a family. It is a position which is usually inherited, yes, but that does not bind it to a single family. Were it bound to a single family, the Xiu would all be "false," as the Qzaredom originated long before them. Loyalty to that position is, and indeed should be, absolute, as it is that very loyalty which binds the Imperium together. The methods by which Qzaredom is transferred from one individual to another are codified in a collection of laws, which are collectively known as the 'Silver Mandate.' These laws are ancient within the Imperium, older even than the Xiu family. The charter in no way supersedes nor replaces these laws, nor does it have any language within it that would attempt to do so, which you would know had you looked further into Salterri law beyond that one mere document."

Rongyao does not bother to read the copy of the charter as it is passed around. Having spent over a decade working within the Imperium Senate and other governmental bodies in Aus-Teire, he has the documents memorized by heart. Likely unknown to most present, Rongyao was to become the next princeps senatus of the Senate, the 'Prime Minister,' had Hanyeo not turned the Salterri military against the Priory when he did.

"As to your second point, charges were brought against the Xiu family as a whole, as per the laws concerning such actions. Imperium or not, Xiu Zhuang was a Xiu in name and member of the Xiu family in fact, and his actions are cumulative with the other charges against the family, regardless of from where such actions originated. I highly doubt you would hold the Priory wholly innocent should one of the Patriarchs lead a horde of orcs from say... Grizzland, despite none of them being Salterri people or from Priory lands.

As Tailong himself would tell you, he and I were as brothers once. If you do not believe that, I will gladly show you correspondence between us that proves such or provide names of those in the capital who can vouch for such. I have no quarrel with him individually, nor have I ever laid accusations against him personally, beyond his inability to act decisively and effectively control those under him. Unfortunately, this does not change the fact that Li Tailong is Xiu Tailong, the son and heir of Xiu Hanyeo, who was the brother and heir of Xiu Wandao, who was the father of Xiu Zhuang.

As per the ancient laws of the Silver Mandate, allegations of crimes were laid upon Xiu Wandao, Xiu Hanyeo, and the Xiu family at large. At such time, Xiu Tailong was not even publicly recognized as Hanyeo's child nor named heir. The charges made were in accordance with the Silver Mandate, the laws concerning the Qzaredom. When Hanyeo refused to answer the charges made privately, charges were filed with the courts and made public, as per standard legal proceedings. When Hanyeo refused to even consider the courts and instead raised his army against the Priory, he enacted a legal Trial by Combat, which he lost, even taking his own life by his own hand. Tailong, who had only recently made an appearance, then took over leadership, but he did not, at the time, take on the Qzaredom. He openly and publicly stated that he would not do so, at the time.

When Zhuang's armies invaded, the Trial by Combat of the Xiu family was renewed and continued. Tailong's participation is inconsequential in this matter, as he had, at the time, publicly renounced taking the Qzaredom. Zhuang lost that war and was summarily executed by his own people for that and other crimes he had committed. As per the laws of the Imperium, their defeat and deaths resulting from the two wars had shown their guilt of the Xiu family, concluding the trial against them.

The trial was legally completed, the Xius in power legally stripped of their right to the Qzaredom, and there were no other claimants to the Silver Throne. As such, the law mandated that the family responsible for the situation take full responsibility. To accept that responsibility, my father and his compatriots were found guilty of treason, not because they had plotted to overthrow the Imperium, but because they had caused the death of a Qzare. I was crowned as Qzare, not because I wanted the position, but because it was thrust upon me by the law. Someone must serve the Imperium in the position of Qzare, and with no other claimants at the time, it was legally forced upon me as a member of the responsible family.

Whether the Tailong has chosen to take up the mantle now or certain groups demand it, it does not change the fact that the laws were followed at the time. He had refused the Qzaredom, but the Qzaredom must, according to the law, be held at all times. One cannot simply choose to take it up again once it has legally passed to another any more than an heir to the throne of the your kingdom could later choose to become king if he refuses the position and passes on that right to another."

[Rain Dragon]

"It appears that I have missed much of the discussion thus far," stated Grand Prince Vanya Nisakovich as he entered the council room.

The Niskovian delegation lead by Vanya consisted of himself, Branimir Korošec and several Ferans.

"Greetings to you King Rion, I admired what your mother sought to accomplish and hope that this conference can achieve more. With me are some of the Haljan Leikjos. I invited them along in the hope that their expertise can be of help during these discussions. I would appreciate it if someone could provide me with a summary of the discussion thus far."

With that out of the way, Vanya gestured at his companions to make themselves comfortable before seating himself at the section of table set aside for any potential Niskovian delegation.

Aipiskaupus Thuidans Kaiser awkwardly moved a chair to one side so he could stand somewhere near Vany. Of course, there was a space at the table for him where the Ferans would be seated, but Aipiskaupus had neglected to indicate where he himself should be seated prior to the Council. He had been otherwise occupied with a rather strange incident one of the Griuhna Haljan Kvista were working hard in solving. The arrangement of the meeting seemed strange to him as sentients of all ages were mixed together and all were free to shout at each other emotionally rather than discuss rationally that which required discussion. Lowering the end of one antenna, Aipiskaupus reached for his flask of absinthe.

Hrafus. Aipiskaupus thought to himself as he quickly glanced up to check his scythe was properly bound in cloth.

At the space set aside for the Ferans, two extremely tall slim human-like beings sat awkwardly either side of a slim figure who was slightly taller than average in height. His hooded black coat was long enough to drag along the ground as he walked and he wore a mask shaped like the face of an Aukii bat. Beside his upper arms floated several red crystals in a wing-like formation. High Prince Ainiveous Elysius, Guardian of the Peace, son of Keshmeo Elysius, daughter of Shadou Elysius simply remained silent and listened to the foreigners' words.

EDIT - Oops, missing the quote.

[Elemental]

"You speak much of this Silver Mandate, Zuida Rongyao. Please, enlighten me as to whether the vassals of Xiu Tailong, Jarrland and Palas Caercia in specific, have ever made any formal agreement to follow its obscure tenets."
The King of Ashenia, whose sudden arrival might be considered surprising by some, entered the room clad in white and silver and seated himself at the table.
"In any case, according to my understanding, this mandate is primarily a religious matter, and to my knowledge not all of the Imperium holds to the faith that you do. Or would you rather their beliefs be overridden in favour of your own? You are a holy man Zuida Rongyao, surely you cannot expect that others would change their faith so readily?"



OOC: Subtle in character insults based on cultural differences go!

[Rizban]

"You speak much of this Silver Mandate, Zuida Rongyao. Please, enlighten me as to whether the vassals of Xiu Tailong, Jarrland and Palas Caercia in specific, have ever made any formal agreement to follow its obscure tenets."
The King of Ashenia, whose sudden arrival might be considered surprising by some, entered the room clad in white and silver and seated himself at the table.
"In any case, according to my understanding, this mandate is primarily a religious matter, and to my knowledge not all of the Imperium holds to the faith that you do. Or would you rather their beliefs we overridden in favour of your own? You are a holy man Zuida Rongyao, surely you cannot expect that others would change their faith so readily?"



OOC: Subtle in character insults based on cultural differences go!"The Silver Mandate is given religious connotations and religious significance, yes. However, it is based on written, actual laws of the people. It is a title given to a collection of laws as a simplification, perhaps an oversimplification. It's much easier to refer to "The Silver Mandate" than it is to refer to a collection of some 20 laws by their individual names each time you wish to speak of them as a whole.

As to whether or not vassals were required to sign something agreeing to these "obscure tenets," I give you two answers. First, there would be no need for them to do so. Second, they in fact did sign such an agreement.

As to my first point, the Qzaredom is a matter of the Salterri people. As vassals, they need not be directly involved in how the inheritance of such is handled. Does your nation consult each and every one of your lesser nobles or sworn vassals when deciding the next leader of your government? I should think not, and rightly so. It would be a needlessly complicated and silly endeavor which would do little but cause chaos in transferring executive control of the government.

As to my second point, as the Jarrs are so fond of pointing out, "Loyalty to the Qzare is absolute." Vassals are beholden to the Qzare by the charter they so laud, and to the legal means of inheritance of such. I have just explained the nature of the Qzaredom and feel no need to belabor that particular point. Or did you need it to be repeated? I must admit that I did not notice precisely when you arrived.

On another note, however, I am branded a traitor for "opposing the Qzare," yet I did no such thing. Hanyeo was dead, having taken his own life, and Tailong had refused the Qzaredom. At that point in time, no one held the title of Qzare for me to betray in any manner. My being crowned Qzare was a mandatory proceeding according to the law to fill a vacancy. It would clearly have been treasonous were another to hold the office, but none did, with the only possible family heir refusing it."

[Rain Dragon]

"As to my first point, the Qzaredom is a matter of the Salterri people. As vassals, they need not be directly involved in how the inheritance of such is handled. Does your nation consult each and every one of your lesser nobles or sworn vassals when deciding the next leader of your government? I should think not, and rightly so. It would be a needlessly complicated and silly endeavor which would do little but cause chaos in transferring executive control of the government.

The foreigner's opinions struck the Kaiser as rather strange. If the inheritence of Fera was not straightforward then all who wield a scythe would discuss the matter while a council ruled Fera, though such a thing has not happened since the time shortly before Blauthjan Thuidans united the Haljans and perhaps even before that (though of course, none shall ever know).

Aipiskaupus whispered to the Grand Prince in Niskan.
"What do you make of the situation thus far? It seems to me that this Council is currently about the Salterri Imperium's laws rather than anything useful to Fera."

EDIT - Derp.

[DurkBlanston]

"I find it interesting Patriarch that in one breath you speak of not claiming sovereign right over the entirety of the Imperium and its vassals and then in the very next breath you insist my brother and his line as well as the King of Carmine and any other Imperium vassal are indebted to follow you as Qzaredom, by your definition, is passed on to the child of whosoever kills the current Qzare."

"And that is yet another point for which issue is taken. Hanyeo, Wandao, Tailong, they were all accused of treason solely by your religious body and your family however your father, a recognized traitor in every land that bears the Salterri Standard, is allowed to have his child, yourself, claim right to the Silver despite being the son of a universally recognized traitor. Further, you claim the Xiu line stands apart and without claimancy to the Silver, that because Tailong was a conflicted young man at the time of his father's death and did not take the title of Qzare immediately so as to avoid civil war that he forfeited it. Perhaps you are simply unaware, but Tailong took on the title at the behest of my father and brother and the current King and his predecessor in Jarrland. He resumed using his true name, Li, denouncing whatever taint there might or might not be in the name of Xiu, and he has lead the Imperium well for many years now despite your obstinate rebellion."

"If you truly cared about stability and peace rather than a frankly narrow minded and foolish adherence to portions of law codified in volumes only sages and advantageous snakes would care to read through fully you would step down as Qzare and accept that none but those quartering your government's soldiers is willing to follow you, but you still insist on standing ground and accomplishing nothing but war by doing so."

[Rizban]

"I see no discrepancy there. Have I sent letters or representatives to your people demanding fealty? Have I made any demands on you at all? Have I so much as sent word requiring you to recognize my right to be Qzare?

But, no, your interpretation of that is wrong. It's not so brutal is that, nor did anyone in my family actually kill a Qzare. Nor would killing me entitle my murderer or anyone in his family to the title or office. There are strict legal proceedings which must be adhered to, which my family did over the course of several years. You yourself just admitted that Tailong forfeited the position. That was your own word, not mine. The law compels the office to be filled. If one refuses it, another must take it. Had the other legal issues not been settled, or had my family not been of Salterri blood, then the responsibility would have passed to another. But by the laws of inheritance, my family was responsible for the gap and filled all requirements, therefore the law dictated that they must take the responsibility and the punishment that inheriting the position outside of what is perceived as the "norm" incurs, and well have I been punished for it.

You call me narrow minded? Ha! I offered more than once to give up the office of Qzare, I offered everything I could imagine to broker peace short of swearing fealty to the family who led troops into my lands to slaughter my people, not once but twice, and now a third time under the guise of another. You of Palas Caercia are the ones who clamor loudest for war and demand blood at every turn, refused every peace offering, and yet you say that I am the warmonger."

[DurkBlanston]

"Did you offer to give up the title of Qzare to Li Tailong, recognized and respected leader of the current Imperium, by admission your own brother, and by his own admission a member of the family Li and not Xiu? I must have missed when such happened for surely then this bloodshed that you so disavow any responsibility for could have been avoided."

[Rizban]

"Changing your name does not change your family, or you would not be so keen on linking me, Zuida Rongyao, to Zanper Fidious. So long as you say I am a traitor and son of a traitor, I will say Tailong is a Xiu and son of a Xiu. And where the Xiu are concerned, my position has been made clear."

[DurkBlanston]

"Then there shall continue to be war."

[Rizban]

"As the croaking of toads, so are the words of a Caercian, and equally meaningless. You have been at war with the Imperium since the day Lord Protector Markus Caercia took power. When Hanyeo was set to move against the Priory, Markus Caercia himself came to Anaphorica in Salteire to pledge alliance against Hanyeo. His only stipulation for his support was that he be permitted to attack and conquer Wyrmar. My father, Zanper Fidious, welcomed him openly but refused his request as he would not permit the breaking of the charter by sending military forces in offense against another member of the Imperium. When he learned that, he immediately went to Hanyeo and offered support there, hoping to take a part of the Priory instead.

You are no different. The Caercians have sought war and blood within the Imperium, the conquest and death of their allies, using any justification necessary to accomplish that goal. So, as I said, your words are the croakings of toads. Meaningless. Were it not war with the Priory, you would be seeking an excuse for war elsewhere in the Imperium, ways to further your own grip and lust for blood and power. By your own admission, you care nothing for laws. Those are "narrow minded and foolish" meant "only for sages and advantageous snakes." Or, to be more correct, you only care for the laws that are advantageous to you, which fits your own description.

You know no other way, nor do you have any willingness to learn it. For that, I truly pity you and those who call you friend."

[DurkBlanston]

Gaius smiled pleasantly,"It is not our friends you should pity, but our enemies."

[Rizban]

Gaius smiled pleasantly,"It is not our friends you should pity, but our enemies."

Rongyao raises one eyebrow at Gaius' comment before turning away from the man. The Caercians wanted war, and war specifically within the Imperium. That had been fact for years. Rongyao had nothing further to say to them.

Turning back to the other people people of the council, Rongyao speaks.

"And now you see clearly what it is I have dealt with these past years. The reason there is war in the south is because there are those who crave only blood and death and conquest, caring nothing for the damage they cause. There are those who truly want peace but listen to those who want only war and are swayed. There are those who want peace but are not willing to surrender to those who call for blood. Then there is the one they claim to follow, who has never truly led, instead attempting only to pacify and appease the dangerous ones long enough to hope something changes for the better.

You called this council for the sake of peace? I tell you there can be none as long as fools call for war, covet their neighbor's possessions, and would gladly kill to take them."

[Reggiejam]

[COLOR="#0000CD"]


Valineth sat quietly beside her husband as the dramatics of the Salterri were carried out in full show before all present.

"You shall forgive me gentleman," she spoke up at last, "But this meeting was not called that those of the Imperium could hurl insults and threats towards one another, it was called to discuss the proposition of an independent and recognized aid and relief force according to these invitations and documents," she gestured towards the papers all present had been given as part of their invitation, "If it is the desire of the Salterri to belittle one another and point fingers in every direction perhaps they can do so privately and not disrupt a meeting whose intent is only cursorily related."

[Rizban]

Valineth sat quietly beside her husband as the dramatics of the Salterri were carried out in full show before all present.

"You shall forgive me gentleman," she spoke up at last, "But this meeting was not called that those of the Imperium could hurl insults and threats towards one another, it was called to discuss the proposition of an independent and recognized aid and relief force according to these invitations and documents," she gestured towards the papers all present had been given as part of their invitation, "If it is the desire of the Salterri to belittle one another and point fingers in every direction perhaps they can do so privately and not disrupt a meeting whose intent is only cursorily related."

"I admit I let my passions get the better of me, but I did just personally witness the death of thousands of my own people only to arrive here for the purpose you mention to hear those very people being insulted and belittled. I'm sure you can find it in you to forgive me that."

[Kitsanth]

The foreigner's opinions struck the Kaiser as rather strange. If the inheritence of Fera was not straightforward then all who wield a scythe would discuss the matter while a council ruled Fera, though such a thing has not happened since the time shortly before Blauthjan Thuidans united the Haljans and perhaps even before that (though of course, none shall ever know).

Aipiskaupus whispered to the Grand Prince in Niskan.
"What do you make of the situation thus far? It seems to me that this Council is currently about the Salterri Imperium's laws rather than anything useful to Fera."

EDIT - Derp.

Vanya had been watching the delegates in dismay when he heard Aipiskaupus attempting to draw his attention. Grateful for the distraction Vanya listened to Thui's enquiry.

"The council called by Queen Amalia began much the same way," Vanya replied, also speaking in Niskan. "However the manifest sent to us by the Celeri Sovereign for this session was very clear. King Rion wishes to continue the ambitious work that his mother began. The establishment of an organisation of 'aid workers', I believe the term is, who could take action to mitigate the consequences of war for the common being? It is a lofty goal and something I feel Niskovia should assist with."
Vanya sighed as the verbal jousting between various delegates continued. "Unfortunately, it seems that those involved in this war are taking advantage of this neutral locale to promote their own propaganda. I fear their personal agendas will divert the discussion so far from the track that nothing will be accomplished here."

"At least my attendance has offered me the chance to speak privately with my granddaughter Valéria. When I learned that Carmine would be supporting the Imperium during this conflict I began to fear for the lives of my great-grandchildren. I hope that I will be able to offer her some comfort during these trying times. I have Branimir attempting to discreetly message her now."

Branimir had been making a series of subtle gestures aimed in Valéria's general direction. These gestures - a secret language known only by the highest ranks of Niskan nobility - indicated that Vanya wished to speak privately with his granddaughter at her convenience. Hopefully she was paying attention.

OOC: Just some IC things between Vanya and his granddaughter, you can either read my previous post or disregard and assume that Valéria hasn't noticed.

During a break in discussion Vanya approached the Niskan woman with the Jarrland delegation.

"Vnuchka, it is good to see you well. If there is anything I can do for you... well, I made sure you knew all this before you left Niskovia. But please, Valéria, do not hesitate to send me a message if you should need anything," Vanya paused, then continued to speak much more quietly and somewhat hesitantly in the Niskan tongue, "if... I do not want to contemplate this... but if things do not go well during this conflict-" Vanya glances about surreptitiously, "-let your partner know that I will grant political asylum for your family in Niskovia should it become necessary."
Vanya signalled to Valéria that she should act as if they had discussed nothing of great consequence.

[Reggiejam]

"I admit I let my passions get the better of me, but I did just personally witness the death of thousands of my own people only to arrive here for the purpose you mention to hear those very people being insulted and belittled. I'm sure you can find it in you to forgive me that."

Valineth nodded, "Passion is no crime, but it like all things has a time and place and here and now are neither." she looked towards all those who had been disrupting the meeting.

"King Rion, I know the Heartwaste and Faedas as a whole would be happy to assist in the proposal you have laid forth. The armies of Yorukuni have done their best to limit civilian loss in the reclamation of Galie-Noiret but a true force designed for such a goal would be welcomed in any camp bearing the sigil of Faedas."

[QuintonBeck]

Zahra at last leaned forward to speak as well. He had been silent through the slinging of words of the various Salterri, and though bits of Triumvirate involvement were batted about they were scraps of a mostly forgotten and suppressed time of darker intents that burned with the fires of open bloody fields that did not represent the Triumvirate of now and thus they prompted no response.

"As with The Heartwaste, the Triumvirate would certainly support such a progressive act and seek to aid it wherever possible. It has been through fear that our actions might be misconstrued that the Triumvirate has not sent aid workers into Salterri lands during this crisis. If such a body exists the Senate would certainly approve of local and international funding for their activities."

[Rizban]

"I assure you, Senator Zahra, that none in the Priory hold the Triumvirate responsible for the actions of Xiu Zhuang nor bear any ill will towards the Triumvirate for it. I regret that the actions of that family, both in invading the north, then in turn invading the south, have put a strain on the relations between our peoples."

[QuintonBeck]

"I assure you, Senator Zahra, that none in the Priory hold the Triumvirate responsible for the actions of Xiu Zhuang nor bear any ill will towards the Triumvirate for it. I regret that the actions of that family, both in invading the north, then in turn invading the south, have put a strain on the relations between our peoples."

"This is good to hear," Zahra nodded, "Though I would love to defer any blame we might hold onto a foreign family Zhuang was of the burning Ignato blood as much as he was Xiu, so some responsibility must be borne by our nation, as much as the Triumvirate of old was the Triumvirate of new, for his actions. Still , that you would see past it as actions of a madman and not the actions of a nation will certainly please those who still fear Zhuang to have tainted the Triumvirate's reputation."

[lt_murgen]

"It would please me greatly to accommodate you, Councillor LaFitte. Sadly, I do not keep informed of the day to day goings on of the slave population. However, I could inquire with their minders once I've returned to Tzalteclan, and see if there is indeed such a child."


He nodded respectfully. "I thank you for your attentions in this matter. While AQUA has has little need for for slaves, I personally have an interest in rare and beautiful people. It would please me greatly to have one such as him."
OOC: the child was mentioned in the round opener, in case you missed it.


Opus spoke once again, "Can we review the specifics of the proposal, then? I think that there is near universal agreement that an independent organization to provide aid and comfort to those caught in war. But what about protection for those workers? Would a small military force be allowable? And what of potential 'crimes' by these workers? How would they be handled and who would bear responsibility?"

[Aedilred]

Siggi sat up straighter. "Again, I must apologise, for, as many of the delegates have pointed out, this is not why we are assembled and had I thought it was I would not have come. I will not, however, stay silent while those on whose behalf I have been sent to speak are traduced and insulted.

"I shall point out, however, that at no point did my lord Protector state that Tailong had forfeited the title of Qzare, nor indeed did he. For the sake of peace, he consulted his subjects to determine whether they wished him to prior to publicly proclaiming the title, which they did. That he did not immediately proclaim his rightful inheritance did not open season on claiming the title for others. The Silver Throne is not a prize in a children's game, to be won by the first who asserts his claim to it. That in the meantime another individual had unilaterally declared themselves Qzare, on the basis of what I do not know, is utterly immaterial, and that they continue to use the title gives them no right to it, any more than I could declare myself the Shahidi Mkuu and in so doing make it true.

"My point in mentioning your father, Rongyao, is merely to expose the Priory's own sophistry and double standards. Tailong is condemned on the basis of the actions of his estranged cousin - whose impending invasion he defied and indeed brought to the attention of the Imperium that it could be defended - and the alleged transgressions of his father and uncle, in whose regimes I should point out you were yourself highly placed, and you claim this is sufficient to strip him of the mandate. Yet your father's treason is considered irrelevant to your own claim. Likewise you insist on calling him Xiu Tailong and that a change of name is meaningless, yet the very name you now use is not that which you used before claiming the Silver Throne. You cannot have it both ways.

"My lords are right that this is a pointless discussion, as this dispute has been ongoing for twenty years without any sign of resolution, and I am sorry to waste your time with it, but to permit the various charges and insults levelled against the Qzare and my kingdom to go unanswered in such esteemed company would be a dereliction of my duty as a representative.

"As my lord Petrichor has suggested, I believe there is relatively little disagreement on the desirability of setting up such an organisation. The question of protection is more difficult. It would seem prudent to protect the organisation members, but who provides these troops is a more difficult question. It is also imperative that such troops adhere to strict rules ensuring their role is limited to protection and does not expand to interference in military matters. In any case, those people present to provide aid should be afforded the full political protection of all signatories to whatever treaty we devise here, and that alone might prove deterrent enough in most instances to those who might otherwise cause them harm."

[Rizban]

Rongyao ignores Siggi's comments. Insults,charges, and worse, death threats against his wife and child, had been hurled against him endlessly for the past twenty years by those who claim moral superiority here without a chance of redress before today, and yet it is they who are offended and cannot let an "insult" stand unanswered.

"The Priory would have been willing to donate as many troops as was necessary to this worthy cause; however, pressing matters have rendered us unable to offer any. Should things change in the future, I can pledge a number of the angelic to aid. Their natural mobility and odd ability that seems to accelerate healing would, I'm sure, be valuable in these efforts."

[WaylanderX]

Protector of Wyrmar, Gaius Caercia and his wife, Governess of Wyrmar, Xiu-Hen Aru, arrived quietly behind the Earl of Jatham, the Jarrlander's presence keeping the small Caercian delegation from drawing too much attention and that they moved and sat beside the Jarrland ambassador only helped them be taken as members of that delegation for those unfamiliar with the differences between Caercian and Carmine styles.

As the Earl spoke and debated with the rest of the groups Gaius leaned back, his finger resting on his lips as he listened at what all was being said.

"Indeed," he added after Siggi had finished speaking, "The AQUA and Celerese relief efforts have been appreciated by those languishing in the war and Huroshan assistance in a similar manner would be welcomed. However I must query you Emperor Wayve, how is it determined which nations are allowed to get involved?"

"Your words indicate that it would be free season for those uninvolved and uninvited to attack those involved in an internal war without interference by yours or the greater international body so long as they were not attacked in turn for involving themselves? No doubt you reference Maos' attack, but such occurred only because Guilder involved itself in internal affairs. If a strike were to be made against the Bordeusi," he looked towards the Bordeusi representative without batting an eye, "Would Hurosha come to their aid despite that they have involved themselves in an internal matter? I should believe they would be just as subject to attack as Maos was when it involved itself in internal Imperium matters. If a country desires itself safe from the effects of war, it ought not get involved in them, wouldn't you agree?"


Siggi pushed himself awkwardly to his feet. "As you say, lord Emperor, this is an internal matter. Nevertheless, it is an internal matter in which foreigners have chosen to involve themselves. It was not a Priory reptile which inflicted these injuries on me. I see no reason why the people of the Imperium should solely bear the cost of this war when it has been escalated and prolonged by parties, one in particular, to whom, as you rightly say, it is of no concern.

"It is important to remember that one belligerent is not entitled to dictate the terms of a conflict. When one chooses to enter into a war, one accepts the risks that come with that, including counterattack. It would be unreasonable to expect anything else.

"Nobody wishes the events of sixty years ago to be repeated, but perhaps the intervening decades have led to complacency in certain quarters, since the only enemies to be found have been barbarian tribes with no international voice and to whose conquest and subjugation the world has been happy to turn a blind eye, minor realms, to be bullied into submission, or rebels and militants, who - until now - have gone unrecognised and unmourned by foreign crowns.

"But we are not the goblins of Sahra'a, possessed of no central government, unable to project military force, nor the people of the Heartwaste of old, scattered and leaderless. Nor are we the rising nation of Tzalteclan-" he nodded to Senusret - "cowed by the amassed might of the Grand Coalition. We bow to no-one, and those who challenge our sovereignty and raise arms against our soldiers would do well to remember that.

"Nevertheless, that is to digress from the purpose of this council. My king is in separate communication with the Dawn Emperor with regard to that. As to the question of medical assistance, we have admitted such personnel and necessary equipment from Celero and AQUA to alleviate the suffering of the people and would raise no objection to the provision of more from other quarters. For reasons I hope are obvious, I cannot say we would welcome foreign troops so warmly."

Wayve stood up and smiled at Gaius and Siggi. A friendly smile... with a very ferocious undertone.

"Oh, I agree, Lord Gaius. If a nation wouldn't want to feel the effects of war, it should not get involved. However, if everybody would react by retaliating, a whole cascade of disasters would be upon us. Each country calling upon its allies and trying to take revenge upon the other. An example that might be relevant:

Due to Hurosha's ancient ties with Guilder, I am bound to come to Guilder's aid in Maos. 13.000 of my men would stand in wait for your armies, armed to the teeth, ready to repel any invasion. And that is only my army. There are others that might feel the same ties, the same bonds as I do, coming to the aid of the one who is under assault. Those will call upon even more allies, as does your side. When time passes, the whole of Telluris will be in turmoil.

As for the question if I would help Bordeux if it was under attack. The question would be yes, if they would accept my help. The Huroshans might be a people who pride Prowess above all, but we also think highly of those who show valor, generosity and forgiveness. Hurosha's troubles with Bordeux lie several decades in the past. I would be a fool not to help, if only to prevent genocide.

But as of late, Hurosha's interactions with the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea have been possitive, to say the least. Trade and marriages, bonds strenghtening. I personally would be very saddened if those juvenile bonds would break appart. Hence that I will only defend Maos. The opposite also holds true. If Guilder would attack Jarrland, I would also intervene in force, provided the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea would accept my help. Hurosha will remain neutral for now. And if troops are not allowed to safeguard my Bladescholars and medics, so be it. Everything for the sake of my fellow man. But may Ashmar have mercy to the one who will bite the hand which offers help."

Wayve sighed and sat back down again.

"However, as this would be my preferred method of handling this situation, I must admit that I am woefully underinformed of all the stand-points within this conflict. Hurosha would like to put an end to this madness and if one side is clearly responsible for this, they must pay the price. I would like a talk with representatives from both sides to clear up my view about the struggles in the south. Maybe, just maybe, I will be able to lend my aid to those who are just in both Mind and Prowess."

OOC: If anyone wants to try and get Hurosha on his side, feel free to do so in a timebubble.


Valineth nodded, "Passion is no crime, but it like all things has a time and place and here and now are neither." she looked towards all those who had been disrupting the meeting.

"King Rion, I know the Heartwaste and Faedas as a whole would be happy to assist in the proposal you have laid forth. The armies of Yorukuni have done their best to limit civilian loss in the reclamation of Galie-Noiret but a true force designed for such a goal would be welcomed in any camp bearing the sigil of Faedas."

"We all would be wise to heed Lady Valineth's words. Under the Huroshan banner, everyone with the intention to help those in need and suffering because of war will be welcome as well. Also, the natural capabilities of both the Menhîrin and Cloudiz should prove invaluable in the cause to provide aid where it is needed. And I'm sure the Bucka could whip up some vehicles specifically designed to transport the injured."

[Rizban]

Wayve stood up and smiled at Gaius and Siggi. A friendly smile... with a very ferocious undertone.

"Oh, I agree, Lord Gaius. If a nation wouldn't want to feel the effects of war, it should not get involved. However, if everybody would react by retaliating, a whole cascade of disasters would be upon us. Each country calling upon its allies and trying to take revenge upon the other. An example that might be relevant:

Due to Hurosha's ancient ties with Guilder, I am bound to come to Guilder's aid in Maos. 13.000 of my men would stand in wait for your armies, armed to the teeth, ready to repel any invasion. And that is only my army. There are others that might feel the same ties, the same bonds as I do, coming to the aid of the one who is under assault. Those will call upon even more allies, as does your side. When time passes, the whole of Telluris will be in turmoil.

As for the question if I would help Bordeux if it was under attack. The question would be yes, if they would accept my help. The Huroshans might be a people who pride Prowess above all, but we also think highly of those who show valor, generosity and forgiveness. Hurosha's troubles with Bordeux lie several decades in the past. I would be a fool not to help, if only to prevent genocide.

But as of late, Hurosha's interactions with the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea have been possitive, to say the least. Trade and marriages, bonds strenghtening. I personally would be very saddened if those juvenile bonds would break appart. Hence that I will only defend Maos. The opposite also holds true. If Guilder would attack Jarrland, I would also intervene in force, provided the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea would accept my help. Hurosha will remain neutral for now. And if troops are not allowed to safeguard my Bladescholars and medics, so be it. Everything for the sake of my fellow man. But may Ashmar have mercy to the one who will bite the hand which offers help."

Wayve sighed and sat back down again.

"However, as this would be my preferred method of handling this situation, I must admit that I am woefully underinformed of all the stand-points within this conflict. Hurosha would like to put an end to this madness and if one side is clearly responsible for this, they must pay the price. I would like a talk with representatives from both sides to clear up my view about the struggles in the south. Maybe, just maybe, I will be able to lend my aid to those who are just in both Mind and Prowess."

OOC: If anyone wants to try and get Hurosha on his side, feel free to do so in a timebubble.



"We all would be wise to heed Lady Valineth's words. Under the Huroshan banner, everyone with the intention to help those in need and suffering because of war will be welcome as well. Also, the natural capabilities of both the Menhîrin and Cloudiz should prove invaluable in the cause to provide aid where it is needed. And I'm sure the Bucka could whip up some vehicles specifically designed to transport the injured." Later on... Zuida Rongyao approaches Wayve Earthguard.

"Prowess and friendship to you, sir. I have come seeking an audience with you on the recommendations of my friends, allies, and family among Bordeux and Guilder. If you have a few moments, I would ask for your ear."

[WaylanderX]

Later on... Zuida Rongyao approaches Wayve Earthguard.

"Prowess and friendship to you, sir. I have come seeking an audience with you on the recommendations of my friends, allies, and family among Bordeux and Guilder. If you have a few moments, I would ask for your ear."

Wayve noddes politely.

"I have a few moments. I asked for people to seek audience with me on this matter. Speak, my friend. Enlighten me with your point of view. The view of Ascension. May Ashmar guide me in judging your Prowess."

[Rizban]

Wayve noddes politely.

"I have a few moments. I asked for people to seek audience with me on this matter. Speak, my friend. Enlighten me with your point of view. The view of Ascension. May Ashmar guide me in judging your Prowess."

"My position is simple, though I'd appreciate it if you can assure me certain points of our conversation will not be repeated. I have enough to deal with from my enemies without giving them additional fuel for their fires. The things I will tell you are true, but they are not widely know. They can be proven, but if they were to become public knowledge at this point in time, it would create such a debacle and further outcry for my nation's destruction that the truth of it would never be able to come to light.

Years past, when Xiu Hanyeo was still Qzare over the Imperium, he was touched by the miracle at the Moonshroud Festival, becoming angelic in nature. However, his faith left him during the transformation, and he was left only partially changed. His condition, however, was kept a secret from those who could have helped him. His brother, Wandao, tried a number of "cures" on him, leaving him both physically and mentally scarred. Finally, he turned to a miracle to cure Hanyeo, which instead turned him into a monstrosity, and abomination that was a mockery of man an angel. Hanyeo took control over the Imperium, Wandao fleeing to the Triumvirate, apparently in fear of his own creation.

At an event held by the Jarrs shortly thereafter, Xiu Hanyeo pulled aside my father and then Chief Hierarch, Zanper Fidious. He claim to have been chosen by our goddess, the Silver Lady to bring a purge to the world, uniting everyone and everything under his power and exterminating everything that did not conform to his vision. My father called him mad and pleaded with him to return to sanity. Hanyeo demanded my father to stand with him and publicly give him the blessing of the Silver Lady to bring war to the entire world. My father refused. Hanyeo would have killed him that very night if he could, but Zanper fled back to the Priory with the other Patriarchs present. Hanyeo returned to his capital, declared the entire Priory in rebellion. In the meantime, my father had filed legal charges against Hanyeo citing a number of crimes committed both by him and by his brother Wandao against the people of the Imperium. Rather than face the charges, Hanyeo raised the entirety of the armies of the Imperium, save those of the Priory, and moved in to destroy us.

In so doing, Zanper and Hanyeo invoked and accepted a legal Trial by Combat. By the might of our arms and the blessings of Our Lady, the Priory stood against the full combined onslaught of the Imperium and emerged the victor. During the battle, when he saw he was losing, Hanyeo fled and took his own life, plunging his own sword into his breast, an act witnessed by many men on both sides. The specifics of what happened legally for transference of the Qzaredom has been covered and frankly has little to do with this. I can provide you documents of the various applicable laws to valid that claim, however, should you wish to see them.

What matters is that my nation has been besieged endlessly ever since and weathered numerous attacks on our lands, winning most, because we refused to support a senseless war against the whole world that would have done naught but cost the Imperium dearly. We are now branded rebels, heretics, and worse, our names spat upon throughout the Imperium. Yet, I maintained continual contact with Tailong and sent repeated diplomats to the other vassals trying to find grounds for peace. Tailong assured me on several occasions that peace was right around the corner, only for it to never materialize and hostilities against us to increase. Despite the continued hostilities, hatred, and attacks, those very same people who wished our destruction were not above continuing to trade openly with us, treating us as friends one day and enemies the next. They call for our blood, yet do not wish our merchants to stop bringing them our goods in peace.

It is a frustrating situation, and people die because of it. Our "rebellion" did not begin until after we were declared rebels and traitors. Frankly, sir, we need your help. We remain strong despite the whole of the Imperium trying to weather us down, but this is no way to exist. One side or the other must break. Either we must die, or they must give up their bloodlust. We need your strength on our side to ensure our continued survival and to force those who push for senseless war to be silenced. Fighting for a cause is noble, fighting to prove your Prowess is good and right, but fighting just to fight because you're stubborn and want to see people die is neither. We have proven our prowess daily for twenty years, and even our women are skilled fighters, as your representatives to the Moonshroud Festival can attest. Still, even a donkey does better with a day of rest each week, and we have earned a time of rest."

[Aedilred]

OOC: Just some IC things between Vanya and his granddaughter, you can either read my previous post or disregard and assume that Valéria hasn't noticed.

During a break in discussion Vanya approached the Niskan woman with the Jarrland delegation.

"Vnuchka, it is good to see you well. If there is anything I can do for you... well, I made sure you knew all this before you left Niskovia. But please, Valéria, do not hesitate to send me a message if you should need anything," Vanya paused, then continued to speak much more quietly and somewhat hesitantly in the Niskan tongue, "if... I do not want to contemplate this... but if things do not go well during this conflict-" Vanya glances about surreptitiously, "-let your partner know that I will grant political asylum for your family in Niskovia should it become necessary."
Vanya signalled to Valéria that she should act as if they had discussed nothing of great consequence.

"Thank you, grandfather. Things in Vennland are well enough... save for the obvious. I do not think things will reach the point we will need to flee, but it is good to know we have a safe haven if it comes to that. When the war is over and we can travel west again conveniently I will have to bring the children to see Niskovia anyway."


Wayve stood up and smiled at Gaius and Siggi. A friendly smile... with a very ferocious undertone.

"Oh, I agree, Lord Gaius. If a nation wouldn't want to feel the effects of war, it should not get involved. However, if everybody would react by retaliating, a whole cascade of disasters would be upon us. Each country calling upon its allies and trying to take revenge upon the other. An example that might be relevant:

Due to Hurosha's ancient ties with Guilder, I am bound to come to Guilder's aid in Maos. 13.000 of my men would stand in wait for your armies, armed to the teeth, ready to repel any invasion. And that is only my army. There are others that might feel the same ties, the same bonds as I do, coming to the aid of the one who is under assault. Those will call upon even more allies, as does your side. When time passes, the whole of Telluris will be in turmoil. "
"I must admit, I find your stance puzzling, lord Emperor. It is well for Guilder to interfere in the affairs of others, but not for others to defend themselves by all means at their disposal? Why should some be permitted to send their troops to fight abroad and not others? Why should one party bear the full cost of conflict? Were the Imperium to declare war on Hurosha - as Guilder did in fact if not in word on the Imperium - should Hurosha not be empowered to fight that war to the best of its ability? Such, I would suggest, is merely good strategy, and to handicap oneself for the sake of avoiding escalation when the war has already been escalated seems not only foolish but irresponsible in protection of one's people.

"I know that Hurosha and Guilder are long allied and will not condemn you for standing by an ally in principle. Yet I suggest that it would do well for those tempted to start war intended for export to consider the possible effects on their own people. Like parents must with their children, at some point one has to allow a foolish friend to learn that their actions have consequences, rather than shielding them indefinitely. Our navy has no intention of raiding Maos again as things stand, but if Guilder continues to send troops to fight the Imperium, I see no practical or moral reason why it should not. To stand in defence of one who has recklessly started or entered a war overseas is to run the risk of encouraging warmongering and escalation of conflict.

"But again, we are drifting from the point."


During a break in the schedule, Siggi limped up to Wayve, and nodded in what was probably an honest attempt at a bow, given his injuries.

"Lord Emperor, I shall get to the point quickly, for I do not wish to waste your time. I shall not ask that you raise arms in our support, since as you say it would be wise to avoid escalation of this conflict. This war would have been finished, the Imperium be at peace and its subjects safe, were it not for the meddling of Guilder, and I have no desire to make the situation worse. I am however certain that Rongyao will request your aid if he has not already. For one who condemned Wandao for his marriage to a northerner, and regards northerners as barbarians and the Lord of Fire as a 'demon', he is certainly keen to seek aid from the north himself now he finds his own people opposed to him. For the sake of the people of the Imperium, I must therefore speak to you regarding the situation.

"Rongyao speaks well, and many of the things he states may be true as he understands them, but his perspective is skewed, self-serving and one-eyed. He has become so convinced of his rightness and so angered by his inability to persuade other members of the Imperium that he is incapable of presenting the facts as they are. I was only a child when the Priory seceded from the Imperium, but I have been told of those events by my father, by the king and by others old enough to have experienced them, and am happy to talk of them as I have heard them, if you are in need of an alternative perspective."

[Rain Dragon]

Vanya had been watching the delegates in dismay when he heard Aipiskaupus attempting to draw his attention. Grateful for the distraction Vanya listened to Thui's enquiry.

"The council called by Queen Amalia began much the same way," Vanya replied, also speaking in Niskan. "However the manifest sent to us by the Celeri Sovereign for this session was very clear. King Rion wishes to continue the ambitious work that his mother began. The establishment of an organisation of 'aid workers', I believe the term is, who could take action to mitigate the consequences of war for the common being? It is a lofty goal and something I feel Niskovia should assist with."
Vanya sighed as the verbal jousting between various delegates continued. "Unfortunately, it seems that those involved in this war are taking advantage of this neutral locale to promote their own propaganda. I fear their personal agendas will divert the discussion so far from the track that nothing will be accomplished here."

"At least my attendance has offered me the chance to speak privately with my granddaughter Valéria. When I learned that Carmine would be supporting the Imperium during this conflict I began to fear for the lives of my great-grandchildren. I hope that I will be able to offer her some comfort during these trying times. I have Branimir attempting to discreetly message her now."

To those not used to Haljan body language, it would seem as though Aipiskaupus did not react in any way to Vanya's words. In Niskan he responded, "It irritates me and makes me wonder the use of assisting such beings. The loss of life is regrettable to us, however. Useful conversation could be had somewhere with only neutral parties in the war, if this continues.

"It is good to hear this journey has at least provided you the opportunity to assist in the wellbeing of your family."


Opus spoke once again, "Can we review the specifics of the proposal, then? I think that there is near universal agreement that an independent organization to provide aid and comfort to those caught in war. But what about protection for those workers? Would a small military force be allowable? And what of potential 'crimes' by these workers? How would they be handled and who would bear responsibility?"

"But again, we are drifting from the point."

With his thick Haljan accent, Aipiskaupus speaks precisely and emotionlesslay, "Yes. The point. An aid organization. We can talk about that, or you can discuss the war some more. This is fine, I'll just leave if you do. If this war could be discussed out in the first place then you should not be at war in the first place." Aipiskaupus raises his antennae slightly toward Opus and clicks his pincers a few times rapidly, "Were the Leikjos of the State of Fera to join such an organization, I would hope they would have to answer to Feran law while also being properly informed on various important laws of the land they travel to. I have heard from Ainiveous Elysius of a time when a lack of knowledge of foreign laws caused much trouble between the Central nations and the Salterri Empire."

[Kitsanth]

To those not used to Haljan body language, it would seem as though Aipiskaupus did not react in any way to Vanya's words. In Niskan he responded, "It irritates me and makes me wonder the use of assisting such beings. The loss of life is regrettable to us, however. Useful conversation could be had somewhere with only neutral parties in the war, if this continues.

"It is good to hear this journey has at least provided you the opportunity to assist in the wellbeing of your family."

With his thick Haljan accent, Aipiskaupus speaks precisely and emotionlesslay, "Yes. The point. An aid organization. We can talk about that, or you can discuss the war some more. This is fine, I'll just leave if you do. If this war could be discussed out in the first place then you should not be at war in the first place." Aipiskaupus raises his antennae slightly toward Opus and clicks his pincers a few times rapidly, "Were the Leikjos of the State of Fera to join such an organization, I would hope they would have to answer to Feran law while also being properly informed on various important laws of the land they travel to. I have heard from Ainiveous Elysius of a time when a lack of knowledge of foreign laws caused much trouble between the Central nations and the Salterri Empire."
"We assist them in endeavours like these because the cause is worth these dealing with these headaches," Vanya said quietly in Niskan to Aipiskaupus, "I have hope that the work done here this day will benefit our people in the future."



Vanya spoke, addressing the room in general, "If this proposed organisation is realised, we will need a way to prevent the misuse of its neutral banner. I propose that the harshest possible penalties be enacted against those who would commit dishonourable acts under the neutrality of this banner."



"Thank you, grandfather. Things in Vennland are well enough... save for the obvious. I do not think things will reach the point we will need to flee, but it is good to know we have a safe haven if it comes to that. When the war is over and we can travel west again conveniently I will have to bring the children to see Niskovia anyway."

"Speaking with you here has lightened my heart vnuchka. And when this war ends I look forward to hosting your family back in Raykhenbakh, I know your mother would greatly appreciate seeing her grandchildren for the first time."
Vanya smiled.
"Now I should probably stop monopolising your time here, it has been good to see you."

[Rain Dragon]

"We assist them in endeavours like these because the cause is worth these dealing with these headaches," Vanya said quietly in Niskan to Aipiskaupus, "I have hope that the work done here this day will benefit our people in the future."

Vanya spoke, addressing the room in general, "If this proposed organisation is realised, we will need a way to prevent the misuse of its neutral banner. I propose that the harshest possible penalties be enacted against those who would commit dishonourable acts under the neutrality of this banner."

"You said as I meant. That said, I still believe shutting those of the Imperium in a room elsewhere so we can have a rational conversation is rather tempting."

"Fera agrees, though preventative measures should also be taken. Such as short training programs and investigations to be sure the individual has no history of foul deeds. As that fellow over there suggested earlier, protection for these... 'aid workers?' would be an excellent idea and also likely assist in policing them." Aipiskaupus gestured toward Opus with a hand motion not unlike one he'd seen Niskans use in similar situations.

One of the rather tall human-like beings' blue-tipped ears perked at the sight of Valineth. Smiling beneath the mask which covers Mendev's lower face, Mendev whispers to Ainiveous, "Valineth of Faedas is here and I heard mention of Yorukuni earlier. So, it is true then that only the Aristocracy would have suffered the Soul Death?"
Ainiveous whispered back, "It is hard to be sure, Mendev. I hear they worship Kina spirits or some such and focus on death. Besides, some of the Aristocracy stayed behind."

EDIT - Oops, tenses.

[lt_murgen]

[QUOTE=Rain Dragon;17955853]"Fera agrees, though preventative measures should also be taken. Such as short training programs and investigations to be sure the individual has no history of foul deeds. As that fellow over there suggested earlier, protection for these... 'aid workers?' would be an excellent idea and also likely assist in policing them." Aipiskaupus gestured toward Opus with a hand motion not unlike one he'd seen Niskans use in similar situations.
[/SPOILER]

"I would have three proposals towards that end. First, that the organization maintain a small group of professional healers, carters, and soldiers who direct the actual need. These would be people who abdicated their title and position in favor of the work. By doing so, the desire to misuse the situation for their own ends is minimized.
Second, that the organization only maintains a small structure, relying on timely donations from other realms. By doing so, the organization does not become wealthy or powerful in its own right.
Third, both the realm in need and the realm giving workers for aid recognize the authority of the small cadre of professionals. By doing so, they can act to keep the workers and protectors focused on the task and out of trouble.

[WaylanderX]

"I must admit, I find your stance puzzling, lord Emperor. It is well for Guilder to interfere in the affairs of others, but not for others to defend themselves by all means at their disposal? Why should some be permitted to send their troops to fight abroad and not others? Why should one party bear the full cost of conflict? Were the Imperium to declare war on Hurosha - as Guilder did in fact if not in word on the Imperium - should Hurosha not be empowered to fight that war to the best of its ability? Such, I would suggest, is merely good strategy, and to handicap oneself for the sake of avoiding escalation when the war has already been escalated seems not only foolish but irresponsible in protection of one's people.

"I know that Hurosha and Guilder are long allied and will not condemn you for standing by an ally in principle. Yet I suggest that it would do well for those tempted to start war intended for export to consider the possible effects on their own people. Like parents must with their children, at some point one has to allow a foolish friend to learn that their actions have consequences, rather than shielding them indefinitely. Our navy has no intention of raiding Maos again as things stand, but if Guilder continues to send troops to fight the Imperium, I see no practical or moral reason why it should not. To stand in defence of one who has recklessly started or entered a war overseas is to run the risk of encouraging warmongering and escalation of conflict.

"But again, we are drifting from the point."


During a break in the schedule, Siggi limped up to Wayve, and nodded in what was probably an honest attempt at a bow, given his injuries.

"Lord Emperor, I shall get to the point quickly, for I do not wish to waste your time. I shall not ask that you raise arms in our support, since as you say it would be wise to avoid escalation of this conflict. This war would have been finished, the Imperium be at peace and its subjects safe, were it not for the meddling of Guilder, and I have no desire to make the situation worse. I am however certain that Rongyao will request your aid if he has not already. For one who condemned Wandao for his marriage to a northerner, and regards northerners as barbarians and the Lord of Fire as a 'demon', he is certainly keen to seek aid from the north himself now he finds his own people opposed to him. For the sake of the people of the Imperium, I must therefore speak to you regarding the situation.

"Rongyao speaks well, and many of the things he states may be true as he understands them, but his perspective is skewed, self-serving and one-eyed. He has become so convinced of his rightness and so angered by his inability to persuade other members of the Imperium that he is incapable of presenting the facts as they are. I was only a child when the Priory seceded from the Imperium, but I have been told of those events by my father, by the king and by others old enough to have experienced them, and am happy to talk of them as I have heard them, if you are in need of an alternative perspective."

Wayve's face darkened.

"You would do well to do away with veiled threats, Ambassador. If this was Kasumor, you would have talked yourself into a Kenka no Gouyuu, or in the Common tongue, the Battle of Prowess. I would advise against doing that here however.

On the matter of Guilders attack, depts must be repayed, agreements honored. As Guilder is now a vassal to the Empire of Dawn, I am even more so bound. Alas, the Empire of Dawn itself is not keen on war. I am sure the Serendels will do their utmost to reign Guilder in and extract the proper repercussions. Untill then however, my hands are tied. I am only defending the Guilderene Expenses as per the agreement signed by those who reigned before me. As the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea is keen on raiding Maos, I see no reason why I should not. About the matter of the remainders of the war however, my judgement is still clouded. Although speaking like you did could clear up my judgement. The way in which that does however, you might not like."

As Siggi finishes his speech, Wayve looks at him for a second, his face as cold as stone.

"Rongyao indeed spoke to me about his view of the situation, and although I could hear his assumpions of percieved evil, his statements sounded genuine and true to me. I have heard about Hanyeo's transformation into a demon, his crimes against the Empire you hold so dear. The laws by which the right of the title of Qzare is his, the same laws that bind you to your liege. The only sign of the lack of Prowess was the fact that he blames the crimes of Hanyeo and Wandao on Tailong himself. No matter how lacking in Prowess, the son is not his father or uncle. Yes, I would be very interested in hearing your side of the story. But unless Rongyao has been lying about the truth of the situation, I would be tempted to at least come to his defence."

Wayve smiled a smile, though it did not reach his eyes.

"And maybe, just maybe, don't hurl veiled threats into an emperors face. That might help."


"My position is simple, though I'd appreciate it if you can assure me certain points of our conversation will not be repeated. I have enough to deal with from my enemies without giving them additional fuel for their fires. The things I will tell you are true, but they are not widely know. They can be proven, but if they were to become public knowledge at this point in time, it would create such a debacle and further outcry for my nation's destruction that the truth of it would never be able to come to light.

Years past, when Xiu Hanyeo was still Qzare over the Imperium, he was touched by the miracle at the Moonshroud Festival, becoming angelic in nature. However, his faith left him during the transformation, and he was left only partially changed. His condition, however, was kept a secret from those who could have helped him. His brother, Wandao, tried a number of "cures" on him, leaving him both physically and mentally scarred. Finally, he turned to a miracle to cure Hanyeo, which instead turned him into a monstrosity, and abomination that was a mockery of man an angel. Hanyeo took control over the Imperium, Wandao fleeing to the Triumvirate, apparently in fear of his own creation.

At an event held by the Jarrs shortly thereafter, Xiu Hanyeo pulled aside my father and then Chief Hierarch, Zanper Fidious. He claim to have been chosen by our goddess, the Silver Lady to bring a purge to the world, uniting everyone and everything under his power and exterminating everything that did not conform to his vision. My father called him mad and pleaded with him to return to sanity. Hanyeo demanded my father to stand with him and publicly give him the blessing of the Silver Lady to bring war to the entire world. My father refused. Hanyeo would have killed him that very night if he could, but Zanper fled back to the Priory with the other Patriarchs present. Hanyeo returned to his capital, declared the entire Priory in rebellion. In the meantime, my father had filed legal charges against Hanyeo citing a number of crimes committed both by him and by his brother Wandao against the people of the Imperium. Rather than face the charges, Hanyeo raised the entirety of the armies of the Imperium, save those of the Priory, and moved in to destroy us.

In so doing, Zanper and Hanyeo invoked and accepted a legal Trial by Combat. By the might of our arms and the blessings of Our Lady, the Priory stood against the full combined onslaught of the Imperium and emerged the victor. During the battle, when he saw he was losing, Hanyeo fled and took his own life, plunging his own sword into his breast, an act witnessed by many men on both sides. The specifics of what happened legally for transference of the Qzaredom has been covered and frankly has little to do with this. I can provide you documents of the various applicable laws to valid that claim, however, should you wish to see them.

What matters is that my nation has been besieged endlessly ever since and weathered numerous attacks on our lands, winning most, because we refused to support a senseless war against the whole world that would have done naught but cost the Imperium dearly. We are now branded rebels, heretics, and worse, our names spat upon throughout the Imperium. Yet, I maintained continual contact with Tailong and sent repeated diplomats to the other vassals trying to find grounds for peace. Tailong assured me on several occasions that peace was right around the corner, only for it to never materialize and hostilities against us to increase. Despite the continued hostilities, hatred, and attacks, those very same people who wished our destruction were not above continuing to trade openly with us, treating us as friends one day and enemies the next. They call for our blood, yet do not wish our merchants to stop bringing them our goods in peace.

It is a frustrating situation, and people die because of it. Our "rebellion" did not begin until after we were declared rebels and traitors. Frankly, sir, we need your help. We remain strong despite the whole of the Imperium trying to weather us down, but this is no way to exist. One side or the other must break. Either we must die, or they must give up their bloodlust. We need your strength on our side to ensure our continued survival and to force those who push for senseless war to be silenced. Fighting for a cause is noble, fighting to prove your Prowess is good and right, but fighting just to fight because you're stubborn and want to see people die is neither. We have proven our prowess daily for twenty years, and even our women are skilled fighters, as your representatives to the Moonshroud Festival can attest. Still, even a donkey does better with a day of rest each week, and we have earned a time of rest."

After Rongyao's story, Wayve stood silent, deep in thought.
Finally he spoke:

"I am not one to judge your laws and customs, Qzare. I would not help either of us if I make myself acquainted with them. Also, the core of this problem as you explain it lies with the one who called himself Hanyeo, does it not? It seems to me that Tailong, no matter how spoiled and annoying of a brat he might be, is not the direct cause of the dire situation at hand. Would it not be possible to force a solution to this problem, with the might of your northern allies, to come to a compromise that does not consist of plunging the whole world into war?

That said however, I am aware that the lands of Ascension always have been on the defensive. Therefore, I can assume that you are at least trying to promote the peace in your lands. I will talk to the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea, to get a full picture from both sides. After that I will decide which of you is more deserving of my help. However, your pledge sounded genuine to me, and I will do my utmost best to help your land to be at peace, so you can rest free of worry once more."


Later on....

Bombastic music could be heard from outside the hall, steadily coming closer.

Suddenly, the doors bursted open, letting forth a steam of belly dancers, bearing markings and clasped in gold chains around their ankles. A band of people bearing strangle instruments, the source of the music, came marching in, drumming in anticipation. A group of goblins, appearing to be of Zargrim decent, trumpeted upon the arrival of the stranger.
Finally, a palanquin was carried in, carried by four Berapi, one fire, one cold, one storm and one tiefling. They lowered the palanquin, upon which a man stepped out of the luxury cariage. He was old, with a foul, long greyish beard, above which a nose, sharp as a beak, was visible. His eyes were full of malice, confidence and arrogance. His gaze wondered around the hall before he called to all in the room, his voice strong and deep despite his appearance.

If Inigo is there, he recognises him as the man he met in the "Voices from the Shadows" thread.

"Good afternoon, whores and murderers, thieves and beggars. Such a wonder day it is. And you are wasting that day, arguing about who would laid this pathetic little stretch of land. What you should be doing though, is pledge your allegiance to me."

The man walked to one of the table, grabbing a slice of meat of a ladies plate and taking a big bite, the juice dripping in his beard. He continued his rant:

"Oh, who am I you ask? Well, I am glad you have the wits to ask. I am Ridovo the Great, Master of Shadows, rightful ruler of Telluris. And why do just show up like this? Well, I've brought you dear Salterri a little present."

One of the dancers conjured a burlap bag out of the palanquin, red with blood, which the dancer threw unto the table. Out of the sack rolled a head, cut of savagely by the neck, his face torn assunder. The only thing that was visible was a red beard and the man's red hair.

"I heard you were looking for somebody. I might be able to......help."

OOC: This is all discussed with Morph, I invite all of you to find out what the flip is going on?

[TheDarkDM]

The Tzaltec delegation tensed at the approaching music, and as the ostentatious display burst into the council room, Senusret's eyebrows shot up. Looking to his side, he raised to fingers, and a slight nod passed among his entourage. Then a ragged buffoon stepped from the palanquin, and Senusret dropped his fingers.

"Kill the entourage, leave the ringleader alive."

As one, four of Senusret's entourage vaulted over the council table, drawing razor thin knives from the folds of their robes and sending them flying towards the murderous carnival.

The four attackers are all Unmarked, Tzalteclan's assassin fanatics. No idea how to resolve this, but it should be interesting!

[Aedilred]

As Siggi finishes his speech, Wayve looks at him for a second, his face as cold as stone.

"Rongyao indeed spoke to me about his view of the situation, and although I could hear his assumpions of percieved evil, his statements sounded genuine and true to me. I have heard about Hanyeo's transformation into a demon, his crimes against the Empire you hold so dear. The laws by which the right of the title of Qzare is his, the same laws that bind you to your liege. The only sign of the lack of Prowess was the fact that he blames the crimes of Hanyeo and Wandao on Tailong himself. No matter how lacking in Prowess, the son is not his father or uncle. Yes, I would be very interested in hearing your side of the story. But unless Rongyao has been lying about the truth of the situation, I would be tempted to at least come to his defence."

Wayve smiled a smile, though it did not reach his eyes.

"And maybe, just maybe, don't hurl veiled threats into an emperors face. That might help."

"I assure you, my lord, I meant no threat against Hurosha. Neither the Imperium nor my kingdom has any quarrel with you at present. My mention of invasion of Hurosha was meant entirely hypothetically, to better compare how we found ourselves following the actions of Guilder to a situation with which you might sympathise. I do not believe there is anyone in the Imperium crazy enough to countenance an attack on Hurosha in reality, even my poor mad cousin Seirwynn. Nor do I wish for there to be another attack on Maos, though I will defend the right of our navy to act as it did, and to act in such a way again in future if necessary, given the actions of Guilder.

"As I mentioned, I was only a child when these events transpired, but I was briefed before coming here and have seen a number of documents from that period. The former Qzare Hanyeo was indeed transformed into one of the Priory's Ascended, a transformation which took place at the behest of the Priory's own Chief Hierarch. Many years later, Fidious confronted Hanyeo and demanded he step down, citing an obscure interpretation of the Silver Mandate and the Priory's own dogma, one not reflected in mainstream Hailings teaching. This took place at my cousins' weddings, in 415. Hanyeo refused, and the Hierarch departed to Anaphorica. This meeting was witnessed by nobody besides Hanyeo and Priory representatives themselves. Some time later, a missive was sent out informing the subjects and vassals of the Imperium that the 'rumours' about Hanyeo were true, rumours which had been started by the Priory themselves. The Priory invited the subjects and vassals of the Imperium to attend a summit to discuss the deposition of the Qzare and selection of a new one. The agenda and some notes from this meeting have been preserved.

"The summit was a disaster. The Chief Hierarch failed to provide any substantive evidence why the mandate had left the Qzare, relying on hearsay, Ascension dogma, obscure interpretations of laws unknown to us, of which he asserted the existence but did not produce copies, and events so long past they raised a serious question as to why, if they were as serious as the Priory claimed, had not been raised when they occurred, in some cases as much as thirty years in the past.

"The reasons for that soon became apparent. The Hierarch declared his intention to remove Hanyeo by main force and kill him if necessary, and requested the support of the other vassals in undertaking this The intervening years had been spent building his army that he might effect this. My king stood behind Hanyeo, believing that, while some of the charges were serious if vague and unsubstantiated, the Qzare had not demonstrably breached the terms of the Charter - which I should point out is the only document relating to Imperial governance to which my kingdom has ever agreed and which makes no mention of the Silver Mandate - and that to turn on his liege lord over what amounted to innuendo without giving him the opportunity to defend himself would be the worst act of treason. Palas Caercia, who had arrived intending to support the Priory, were so taken aback by the paucity of the evidence presented by the Hierarch that they departed also as followers of Hanyeo. Mularuhm further excused itself, and Wyrmar did not even attend. The Jarrland ambassadors told Fidious that if he wanted to pursue matters he should bring charges against Hanyeo openly through the accepted judicial channels.

"Instead he remained in Anaphorica, and declared to all that Hanyeo had lost the Silver Mandate and was no true Qzare, challenging Hanyeo to single combat, and formally breaking the Priory's ties to Aus-Teire through formation of a new kingdom centred in Anaphorica. He was accused of treason, and Hanyeo marched to Salteire to arrest him and return him to Aus-Teire. Rather than defend his innocence at trial, Fidious chose to meet Hanyeo in battle, a battle in which both of them were killed.

"I should point out that these actions of the Chief Hierarch are recognised as treasonous even within the Priory. Rongyao himself agreed the posthumous conviction of his father for treason, and executed or exiled those who were closest to him during his plotting.

"With the Qzare dead and the Priory still in rebellion, Prince Tailong, his heir, wrote to the vassals of the Imperium, informing them he would not take the Silver Throne without their support, since he had no wish to prolong the war if unnecessary. To a man, the vassals declared their support for him. In the time this took to determine, however, Patriarch Gloriosis, now calling himself Zuida Rongyao, had unilaterally declared himself Qzare in Anaphorica, without consultation of anyone, and crowned himself. I have no idea on what basis he claimed that title. The Priory has only ever advanced arguments against the house of Xiu and never explained the basis for its own claim.

"When Zhuang invaded Bor-Teire, there was no man who would have condemned Tailong for standing aside and letting Zhuang defeat his sworn enemies, but he did not. It was he who discovered and issued warnings of what Zhuang was planning, so that the Priory might prepare. He raised his army and marched to defend the people who had killed his father, for he sees them as his people still, regardless of their crimes. He has received no gratitude or recognition from the Priory for this. Indeed, Rongyao uses Zhuang's invasion as an excuse to condemn Tailong further. So blinded has he become by his hatred for Tailong's family that he has lost any ability to judge the matter rationally."

"I cannot speak as to the private negotiations that have taken place between Tailong and Rongyao. I do know that Tailong has offered to betroth his eldest daughter to Rongyao's son to create a unified Imperial line and been flatly rejected, as Rongyao believes no blood of Xiu can ever sit on the Silver Throne. Rongyao says he has offered to lay down the title of Qzare. If that is true, why has he not done so? Tailong would surely raise no objection - indeed, the principal issue in this whole affair is that he continues to claim that title. You heard him earlier, claiming the Priory did not secede from the Imperium. He still genuinely believes, and asserts at any opportunity on the international stage, that he is Qzare of the entire Imperium, despite all evidence to the contrary.

He stopped for a moment and coughed awkwardly, the sound making a horrible grating, and he almost struck himself in the mouth with his iron hand as he attempted to shield the Emperor from his coughing. Once the coughing was done he screwed up the visible portion of his face in a vague approximation of an apologetic expression.

"My apologies, my lord. In any case, I believe that, while he may think he speaks truth, he lacks self-awareness. He denounces Tailong for the alleged, unproven, crimes of his father, yet is the son of a traitor himself. He cites documents he cannot produce in support of his claim, while insisting the charter - the only document we have ever seen on the subject and certainly the only one we have ever signed - is irrelevant. He calls himself a man of peace, but maintains the largest standing army in the south, which he uses to occupy Bor-Teire and Minotron and oppress the Lord of Fire worshippers there. He calls northerners barbarians and the Lord of Fire a "fire demon", yet calls for and accepts foreign aid when those he claims as his subjects turn against him. He asserts Tailong has lost the support of the people, and makes his own claim to the title on the basis of popular consent, when four-fifths of the Imperium stand in support of Tailong and in denial of him. He claims he wishes for the Imperium to be united, yet allows his own lands to divide it physically and politically, to the extent that the Qzare would no longer be able to defend me from military attack without crossing Priory land, and from what I understand Rongyao has rejected any attempt at settlement that does not result in all his demands being met. He talks of compromise, but I do not think he knows what it means.

"And now the Qzare is missing, on a diplomatic mission to Salteire. Whether he crossed the border, whether the Priory have killed or imprisoned him, whether he was ambushed by bandits, I know not. But Rongyao himself appears entirely unconcerned as to Tailong's fate, as you have seen. Assuming he has not, as he claims, taken action against Tailong directly, he is not interested in discovering what has become of the man he once called brother, only in securing his own position. Whatever he may say or even believe, he has no interest in the rest of the Imperium, nor indeed in the world outside the Imperium, save as additions to his own domain and allies to prop up his own position in defiance of the will of those he claims to rule. This is the truth of it: the Imperium does not want him. He is no victim in this affair, no more than was Kuramkesh, though at least Kuramkesh had the excuse of being mad. As long as Rongyao makes claim to rule all the Imperium, as he does every day he retains that title, there can only ever be conflict, and he knows this full well. The war of words has gone on for twenty years, trying to prevent another war of swords, but where words are no longer sufficient, eventually swords must be turned to.

"As we have always said, this is a matter of sovereignty. The Priory is in rebellion: Rongyao may be a well-presented and powerful rebel, but a rebel nonetheless."

OOC: Wow, that was super long. Sorry!

[DurkBlanston]

Gaius Caercia and his wife Xiu-Hen Aru approached the Emperor of Hurosha after his friend, ally, and brother in arms the Earl of Jatham.

"Greetings your eminence," he bowed deeply, almost as deep as he would were this man his Qzare, but not so deep as to disrespect his sworn lord.

"You asked to meet with those who might speak to you about your involvement with the Priory Rebellion, I should be honored to add my voice to the fray."

"As you might note mine is the second, echoing voice of that of the Earl of Jatham, for his King and my own brother and Lord Protector share views on this matter. While I'm certain Rongyao has come to you with tales of derision and betrayal, let me simply leave as point of fact that none directly involved in the matters of the Salterri that are not his own people side with him whereas all outside his direct dominion oppose him, that in and of itself speaks volumes more than I could ever hope to."

"Palas Caercia entered the Imperium for the protection it offered and the potential for growth, the Priory has seen that protection and peace shattered with their lies, machinations, and manipulations. Perhaps you have heard the Priory call the Caercians fickle, or war mongers, or untrustworthy. Such is based, in all things the Priory espouses, in half truths and manipulation. Let me inform you of a tale known only to a select few among the Imperium, at one time Palas Caercia planned to assist the Priory in its rebellion against the Qzare. My father, a good man but less wizened to the ways of the world when first joining the Imperium heard but one argument, that made by the Priory, and was for a time convinced to aid their cause. This was in large part due to my father's desire for the land of Wyrmar, which he believed he could acquire through conquest aiding the Priory."

Gaius paused to glance at his wife and squeeze her hand. The quarter Wyrmarian smiled, knowing the story well and long ago having expressed her happiness that such had not occurred that she might be with Gaius.

"When Zanper Fidious sent word to my father of his battle plans in the first uprising my father sent forward his own designs for the acquisition of Wyrmar to distract Wyrmar support from the war and gain a land long coveted by our people by strength of arm. The Cheif Heirarch returned that such a plan was unacceptable, that my father could not attack Wyrmar despite his previous agreement to support Caercian expansion into the lands that enclosed the Caercian Seas. By this time my father had begun to speak at greater length with the Kingdom of Jarrland and the Salterri Heartlands as they are now known. He was informed of much of the truths of the Priory's situation and goals and when he explained his faults to his liege Hanyeo, though so often depicted as a monster, forgave him and granted him a penance for a peacable acquisition of Wyrmar. We Caercians sailed and found Nan Hai Nian and exchanged it for Wyrmar, brought under our banner by this," he raised his hand which was coupled with his wife's own, "my very marriage."

"The Imperium has continued to treat myself, my family, my people and my lands with the utmost dignity and respect despite our failings and stumbles while the Priory has denounced us for an eternity for not supporting their war when we knew better of the truth. So too has the Priory maintained that attitude of steadfast hardheaded and ignorant determination as each chance for peace or resolution presents itself. Li Tailong, my liege lord and rightful heir to the Silver Throne has worked endlessly to come to a compromise with the Priory and been refused at every turn. In this past year the conflict was forced to come about not because of Tailong or the Xius or the sins of the Imperium, but because of the Priory. The Priory has brought judgement onto its own head and in order to resist facing its rightful judgement it has reached out to those it has routinely denounced and denied reconciliation with those it would attempt to lay claim over."

"You shall forgive me Emperor, but if you support them you shall be spitting in the face of the right to rule for every sovereign on Telluris. I beg you, though I do not know you well, do not involve yourself with the Priory, do not come to regret a rash decision and be forced to turn away when the truth comes revealed of their ways and your rational mind gets the better of you after the fact as my father did."

[SamBurke]

Wayve's face darkened.

"You would do well to do away with veiled threats, Ambassador. If this was Kasumor, you would have talked yourself into a Kenka no Gouyuu, or in the Common tongue, the Battle of Prowess. I would advise against doing that here however.

On the matter of Guilders attack, depts must be repayed, agreements honored. As Guilder is now a vassal to the Empire of Dawn, I am even more so bound. Alas, the Empire of Dawn itself is not keen on war. I am sure the Serendels will do their utmost to reign Guilder in and extract the proper repercussions. Untill then however, my hands are tied. I am only defending the Guilderene Expenses as per the agreement signed by those who reigned before me. As the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea is keen on raiding Maos, I see no reason why I should not. About the matter of the remainders of the war however, my judgement is still clouded. Although speaking like you did could clear up my judgement. The way in which that does however, you might not like."
Inigo stands up to make sure Guilder is heard, at long last. "Both sides of this conflict have borne much wrong, and have legitimate grievances. To that end, I propose a trade: your people are much harried by villains of wild extraction. If I were to send aid to defend you, it would be, as it were, a cancellation of the wrongs that your people see. Your peoples' lives would be safeguarded, as would peace; a worthy goal from any perspective.

"In return, if you were to build upon the great Titan which your troops had defaced, then my people would see the offense as wiped clean. In this way, again, a wrong would be righted, straightforward and in peace."



Later on....

Bombastic music could be heard from outside the hall, steadily coming closer.

Suddenly, the doors bursted open, letting forth a steam of belly dancers, bearing markings and clasped in gold chains around their ankles. A band of people bearing strangle instruments, the source of the music, came marching in, drumming in anticipation. A group of goblins, appearing to be of Zargrim decent, trumpeted upon the arrival of the stranger.
Finally, a palanquin was carried in, carried by four Berapi, one fire, one cold, one storm and one tiefling. They lowered the palanquin, upon which a man stepped out of the luxury cariage. He was old, with a foul, long greyish beard, above which a nose, sharp as a beak, was visible. His eyes were full of malice, confidence and arrogance. His gaze wondered around the hall before he called to all in the room, his voice strong and deep despite his appearance.

If Inigo is there, he recognises him as the man he met in the "Voices from the Shadows" thread.

"Good afternoon, whores and murderers, thieves and beggars. Such a wonder day it is. And you are wasting that day, arguing about who would laid this pathetic little stretch of land. What you should be doing though, is pledge your allegiance to me."

The man walked to one of the table, grabbing a slice of meat of a ladies plate and taking a big bite, the juice dripping in his beard. He continued his rant:

"Oh, who am I you ask? Well, I am glad you have the wits to ask. I am Ridovo the Great, Master of Shadows, rightful ruler of Telluris. And why do just show up like this? Well, I've brought you dear Salterri a little present."

One of the dancers conjured a burlap bag out of the palanquin, red with blood, which the dancer threw unto the table. Out of the sack rolled a head, cut of savagely by the neck, his face torn assunder. The only thing that was visible was a red beard and the man's red hair.

"I heard you were looking for somebody. I might be able to......help."

OOC: This is all discussed with Morph, I invite all of you to find out what the flip is going on?

Inigo sighs. "Is there ever an international event without a dead body? Not, of course, that I mind stretching myself." He leaps into action, drawing the ceremonial bronze saber of war from its sheathe, and advancing to the rear of this delegation. But he moves slowly, trying to... catch the man's eye. The madman is familiar. Too familiar. And all too familiarly dangerous.

[Rizban]

After Rongyao's story, Wayve stood silent, deep in thought.
Finally he spoke:

"I am not one to judge your laws and customs, Qzare. I would not help either of us if I make myself acquainted with them. Also, the core of this problem as you explain it lies with the one who called himself Hanyeo, does it not? It seems to me that Tailong, no matter how spoiled and annoying of a brat he might be, is not the direct cause of the dire situation at hand. Would it not be possible to force a solution to this problem, with the might of your northern allies, to come to a compromise that does not consist of plunging the whole world into war?

That said however, I am aware that the lands of Ascension always have been on the defensive. Therefore, I can assume that you are at least trying to promote the peace in your lands. I will talk to the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Carmine Sea, to get a full picture from both sides. After that I will decide which of you is more deserving of my help. However, your pledge sounded genuine to me, and I will do my utmost best to help your land to be at peace, so you can rest free of worry once more.""As I have said, my problem is not with Tailong himself but with the family of the Xiu. Whether it was Wandao, Hanyeo, or Zhuang or the general responsible for this most recent invasion, it has always been a Xiu or their direct representatives acting in their name who have done our people wrong. Perhaps, in a generation or three, the peoples' hearts will change, but for now, the people of the Priory are done with the line of Xiu, wanting nothing to do with them. Each assault they make, whether by arms and armies or by words and slander, they drive a greater wedge between our peoples. They see it as me standing in sole opposition, but I am but a representative of the will of my people. Had it been my decision alone to make... Perhaps things might have been different. Of that, I cannot rightly say, as it is mere speculation.

They tell me that I am guilty for my father's single great sin, yet Tailong is held innocent of the repeated sins of his entire family. I am told I must surrender and submit unconditionally to the authority of a family responsible for repeated, continued, and ongoing wrongs against my people. Tailong offered me peace, before his disappearance, and I was ready to accept most of his proposal. He agreed to meet with me at Moonshroud to negotiate the final terms. Despite their propaganda against me, Tailong never entered Priory lands. As I am sure you can understand, we have military checkpoints at every major road, and most of the minor ones. Trustworthy men oversee each location, and full reports are made at each, all overseen by one of the Angelic. There were orders left in place to inform me the moment he arrived so that I might ride out to personally greet him and welcome the chance of peace. I assure you that he never arrived."

[Aedilred]

Inigo stands up to make sure Guilder is heard, at long last. "Both sides of this conflict have borne much wrong, and have legitimate grievances. To that end, I propose a trade: your people are much harried by villains of wild extraction. If I were to send aid to defend you, it would be, as it were, a cancellation of the wrongs that your people see. Your peoples' lives would be safeguarded, as would peace; a worthy goal from any perspective.

"In return, if you were to build upon the great Titan which your troops had defaced, then my people would see the offense as wiped clean. In this way, again, a wrong would be righted, straightforward and in peace."

"I assure you, we are already well provided with assistance against the wildlings by our friends and allies, friends whose generosity in repairing damage done by Guilder has been appreciated previously." He flexed his iron arm, and was that a slight twinkle of amusement in his eye?

"In any case, I would need to consult my king before agreeing anything of the sort. Allowing Guilder troops onto Carmine soil would be a bold move after the farce of Salteire. It is as well that so few of our people perished in that battle. As for the Titan, it is my understanding no harm was done that a good scrubbing will not fix."

He looked back towards King Rion. "Yet as we must apparently be reminded constantly, this is not a talking-shop for our grievances over the war or a forum for negotiation over settlement. We are here to discuss formation of a body to protect and minister to its victims, despite the best efforts of most of the delegates, it seems."



One of the dancers conjured a burlap bag out of the palanquin, red with blood, which the dancer threw unto the table. Out of the sack rolled a head, cut of savagely by the neck, his face torn assunder. The only thing that was visible was a red beard and the man's red hair.

"I heard you were looking for somebody. I might be able to......help."

His heart pounding, Siggi pushed himself to his feet and reached for his cane, even as his entourage stepped forward to protect him and Valéria. Taking a grip on the handle of the cane, he wrenched at it with his left hand, pulling it free of a long narrow blade, and half-crushing the outer cane in the process. Content to let the Tzaltec tackle the intruders for now, without wishing to get in their way, he kept his guard up with the sword and pointed to Rion with his metal hand, addressing to one of his men.

"Protect our host."

His eyes never left the old man.

[Rain Dragon]

"I would have three proposals towards that end. First, that the organization maintain a small group of professional healers, carters, and soldiers who direct the actual need. These would be people who abdicated their title and position in favor of the work. By doing so, the desire to misuse the situation for their own ends is minimized.
Second, that the organization only maintains a small structure, relying on timely donations from other realms. By doing so, the organization does not become wealthy or powerful in its own right.
Third, both the realm in need and the realm giving workers for aid recognize the authority of the small cadre of professionals. By doing so, they can act to keep the workers and protectors focused on the task and out of trouble.

Aipiskaupus said nothing, thus indicating his agreement with the proposed measures.


Inigo stands up to make sure Guilder is heard, at long last. "Both sides of this conflict have borne much wrong, and have legitimate grievances. To that end, I propose a trade: your people are much harried by villains of wild extraction. If I were to send aid to defend you, it would be, as it were, a cancellation of the wrongs that your people see. Your peoples' lives would be safeguarded, as would peace; a worthy goal from any perspective.

"In return, if you were to build upon the great Titan which your troops had defaced, then my people would see the offense as wiped clean. In this way, again, a wrong would be righted, straightforward and in peace."

"I assure you, we are already well provided with assistance against the wildlings by our friends and allies, friends whose generosity in repairing damage done by Guilder has been appreciated previously." He flexed his iron arm, and was that a slight twinkle of amusement in his eye?

"In any case, I would need to consult my king before agreeing anything of the sort. Allowing Guilder troops onto Carmine soil would be a bold move after the farce of Salteire. It is as well that so few of our people perished in that battle. As for the Titan, it is my understanding no harm was done that a good scrubbing will not fix."

He looked back towards King Rion. "Yet as we must apparently be reminded constantly, this is not a talking-shop for our grievances over the war or a forum for negotiation over settlement. We are here to discuss formation of a body to protect and minister to its victims, despite the best efforts of most of the delegates, it seems."

"Feel free to discuss the war, then." Aipiskaupus simply leaves.
Ears laid back unhappily, Mendev and Elyx follow as well. Nobody bothered to ensure Ainiveous was with them; he would do as he wished regardless of what anyone said or did.

((OOC - Ainiveous Elysius is still there. He's not doing anything, though. Just sitting there.))

[QuintonBeck]

Senator Zahra flew to his feet, taking steps back away from the events unfolding. Already his mind was processing the information, this man's name was that given by General Drakksen in his report on "Raven of Hurosha" Zahra but that man had been apprehended and he had believed the confrontation at the Inn had seen an end to the madness. It seemed he was mistaken.

The Senator had come with a small retinue, only one guard among them and he moved to protect the Senator as the entirety of the retinue moved to safety and watched the events unfold.

[WaylanderX]

Senator Zahra flew to his feet, taking steps back away from the events unfolding. Already his mind was processing the information, this man's description matched that given by General Drakksen in his report on "Raven of Hurosha" Zahra knew the man hadn't been apprehended* but he had believed the confrontation had dissuaded the madman from his course. It seemed he was mistaken.

The Senator had come with a small retinue, only one guard among them and he moved to protect the Senator as the entirety of the retinue moved to safety and watched the events unfold.


Unless he was and then escaped :smalltongue:


One thing though, the man you see before you is not the same as the one described in Drakksen's report. Lets assume you captured the contact alive in the "Voices from the Shadows" thread. When you left for Propinlonge, that captive has still imprisoned. That prisoner also called himself Ridovo, but was a obese, fat man of middle age. AKA, a double.



"As I have said, my problem is not with Tailong himself but with the family of the Xiu. Whether it was Wandao, Hanyeo, or Zhuang or the general responsible for this most recent invasion, it has always been a Xiu or their direct representatives acting in their name who have done our people wrong. Perhaps, in a generation or three, the peoples' hearts will change, but for now, the people of the Priory are done with the line of Xiu, wanting nothing to do with them. Each assault they make, whether by arms and armies or by words and slander, they drive a greater wedge between our peoples. They see it as me standing in sole opposition, but I am but a representative of the will of my people. Had it been my decision alone to make... Perhaps things might have been different. Of that, I cannot rightly say, as it is mere speculation.

They tell me that I am guilty for my father's single great sin, yet Tailong is held innocent of the repeated sins of his entire family. I am told I must surrender and submit unconditionally to the authority of a family responsible for repeated, continued, and ongoing wrongs against my people. Tailong offered me peace, before his disappearance, and I was ready to accept most of his proposal. He agreed to meet with me at Moonshroud to negotiate the final terms. Despite their propaganda against me, Tailong never entered Priory lands. As I am sure you can understand, we have military checkpoints at every major road, and most of the minor ones. Trustworthy men oversee each location, and full reports are made at each, all overseen by one of the Angelic. There were orders left in place to inform me the moment he arrived so that I might ride out to personally greet him and welcome the chance of peace. I assure you that he never arrived."

"I believe you on your word, Qzare. However, I can not throw my own country into disarray without making sure of every detail. I think it is imperative that we find Li Tailong and hear his story. Maybe, just maybe, he will be able to quell this and progress the path of peace. However, if we do not find Li Tailong soon, this war will continue I would think. I will try to talk some sense into Tailong's vassals, to see if they will stop this folley. The Salterri have not been my staunchest of allies through the ages, but to see many more people die... It would shame my Prowess not to try and stop this. If you would excuse me, Qzare, it seems that I would have some convincing to do. This whole war has been build on false accusations and vassals desperate to avenge their liege against the wrong person. It...must....stop.

But, even if I would join this war, thousands of my people would risk their lives for a cause so far from home. My people are disconnected from this conflict, feeling they have nothing to do with it. Morale will be a great problem. Without compensation, I am unsure if I can fight for your cause. Or for the Salterri Heartland's, for that matter."



Gaius Caercia and his wife Xiu-Hen Aru approached the Emperor of Hurosha after his friend, ally, and brother in arms the Earl of Jatham.

"Greetings your eminence," he bowed deeply, almost as deep as he would were this man his Qzare, but not so deep as to disrespect his sworn lord.

"You asked to meet with those who might speak to you about your involvement with the Priory Rebellion, I should be honored to add my voice to the fray."

"As you might note mine is the second, echoing voice of that of the Earl of Jatham, for his King and my own brother and Lord Protector share views on this matter. While I'm certain Rongyao has come to you with tales of derision and betrayal, let me simply leave as point of fact that none directly involved in the matters of the Salterri that are not his own people side with him whereas all outside his direct dominion oppose him, that in and of itself speaks volumes more than I could ever hope to."

"Palas Caercia entered the Imperium for the protection it offered and the potential for growth, the Priory has seen that protection and peace shattered with their lies, machinations, and manipulations. Perhaps you have heard the Priory call the Caercians fickle, or war mongers, or untrustworthy. Such is based, in all things the Priory espouses, in half truths and manipulation. Let me inform you of a tale known only to a select few among the Imperium, at one time Palas Caercia planned to assist the Priory in its rebellion against the Qzare. My father, a good man but less wizened to the ways of the world when first joining the Imperium heard but one argument, that made by the Priory, and was for a time convinced to aid their cause. This was in large part due to my father's desire for the land of Wyrmar, which he believed he could acquire through conquest aiding the Priory."

Gaius paused to glance at his wife and squeeze her hand. The quarter Wyrmarian smiled, knowing the story well and long ago having expressed her happiness that such had not occurred that she might be with Gaius.

"When Zanper Fidious sent word to my father of his battle plans in the first uprising my father sent forward his own designs for the acquisition of Wyrmar to distract Wyrmar support from the war and gain a land long coveted by our people by strength of arm. The Cheif Heirarch returned that such a plan was unacceptable, that my father could not attack Wyrmar despite his previous agreement to support Caercian expansion into the lands that enclosed the Caercian Seas. By this time my father had begun to speak at greater length with the Kingdom of Jarrland and the Salterri Heartlands as they are now known. He was informed of much of the truths of the Priory's situation and goals and when he explained his faults to his liege Hanyeo, though so often depicted as a monster, forgave him and granted him a penance for a peacable acquisition of Wyrmar. We Caercians sailed and found Nan Hai Nian and exchanged it for Wyrmar, brought under our banner by this," he raised his hand which was coupled with his wife's own, "my very marriage."

"The Imperium has continued to treat myself, my family, my people and my lands with the utmost dignity and respect despite our failings and stumbles while the Priory has denounced us for an eternity for not supporting their war when we knew better of the truth. So too has the Priory maintained that attitude of steadfast hardheaded and ignorant determination as each chance for peace or resolution presents itself. Li Tailong, my liege lord and rightful heir to the Silver Throne has worked endlessly to come to a compromise with the Priory and been refused at every turn. In this past year the conflict was forced to come about not because of Tailong or the Xius or the sins of the Imperium, but because of the Priory. The Priory has brought judgement onto its own head and in order to resist facing its rightful judgement it has reached out to those it has routinely denounced and denied reconciliation with those it would attempt to lay claim over."

"You shall forgive me Emperor, but if you support them you shall be spitting in the face of the right to rule for every sovereign on Telluris. I beg you, though I do not know you well, do not involve yourself with the Priory, do not come to regret a rash decision and be forced to turn away when the truth comes revealed of their ways and your rational mind gets the better of you after the fact as my father did."


Wayve gave the couple a long look.

"Would it be wrong to come to their defense? As I have told Siggi, your peer, to my knowledge, the Priory has never attacked the Imperium itself, only being attacked by the Salterri Heartlands and its vassals. I am tempted to think there is a side of the story that you and the Ambassador of the Carmine Sea are not telling me. And according to your words, Bordeux and Guilder are also "splitting the face of the right to rule". Perhaps they know something I do not. The Priory has assured me they never welcomed Tailong into their lands, him not even having crossed Priory borders. I am beginning to think that this entire war is based on false information.

Therefore, I must implore you to stop the attacks, at least temporarily. Find your Qzare, learn the truth. No matter what crimes the Priory have commited in the past, the abduction of Li Tailong is not one of them. More than enough people have died. This is not a matter of Prowess any longer. This fight is just as meaningless as two mice fighting over a piece of cheese large enough to share."


"I assure you, my lord, I meant no threat against Hurosha. Neither the Imperium nor my kingdom has any quarrel with you at present. My mention of invasion of Hurosha was meant entirely hypothetically, to better compare how we found ourselves following the actions of Guilder to a situation with which you might sympathise. I do not believe there is anyone in the Imperium crazy enough to countenance an attack on Hurosha in reality, even my poor mad cousin Seirwynn. Nor do I wish for there to be another attack on Maos, though I will defend the right of our navy to act as it did, and to act in such a way again in future if necessary, given the actions of Guilder.

"As I mentioned, I was only a child when these events transpired, but I was briefed before coming here and have seen a number of documents from that period. The former Qzare Hanyeo was indeed transformed into one of the Priory's Ascended, a transformation which took place at the behest of the Priory's own Chief Hierarch. Many years later, Fidious confronted Hanyeo and demanded he step down, citing an obscure interpretation of the Silver Mandate and the Priory's own dogma, one not reflected in mainstream Hailings teaching. This took place at my cousins' weddings, in 415. Hanyeo refused, and the Hierarch departed to Anaphorica. This meeting was witnessed by nobody besides Hanyeo and Priory representatives themselves. Some time later, a missive was sent out informing the subjects and vassals of the Imperium that the 'rumours' about Hanyeo were true, rumours which had been started by the Priory themselves. The Priory invited the subjects and vassals of the Imperium to attend a summit to discuss the deposition of the Qzare and selection of a new one. The agenda and some notes from this meeting have been preserved.

"The summit was a disaster. The Chief Hierarch failed to provide any substantive evidence why the mandate had left the Qzare, relying on hearsay, Ascension dogma, obscure interpretations of laws unknown to us, of which he asserted the existence but did not produce copies, and events so long past they raised a serious question as to why, if they were as serious as the Priory claimed, had not been raised when they occurred, in some cases as much as thirty years in the past.

"The reasons for that soon became apparent. The Hierarch declared his intention to remove Hanyeo by main force and kill him if necessary, and requested the support of the other vassals in undertaking this The intervening years had been spent building his army that he might effect this. My king stood behind Hanyeo, believing that, while some of the charges were serious if vague and unsubstantiated, the Qzare had not demonstrably breached the terms of the Charter - which I should point out is the only document relating to Imperial governance to which my kingdom has ever agreed and which makes no mention of the Silver Mandate - and that to turn on his liege lord over what amounted to innuendo without giving him the opportunity to defend himself would be the worst act of treason. Palas Caercia, who had arrived intending to support the Priory, were so taken aback by the paucity of the evidence presented by the Hierarch that they departed also as followers of Hanyeo. Mularuhm further excused itself, and Wyrmar did not even attend. The Jarrland ambassadors told Fidious that if he wanted to pursue matters he should bring charges against Hanyeo openly through the accepted judicial channels.

"Instead he remained in Anaphorica, and declared to all that Hanyeo had lost the Silver Mandate and was no true Qzare, challenging Hanyeo to single combat, and formally breaking the Priory's ties to Aus-Teire through formation of a new kingdom centred in Anaphorica. He was accused of treason, and Hanyeo marched to Salteire to arrest him and return him to Aus-Teire. Rather than defend his innocence at trial, Fidious chose to meet Hanyeo in battle, a battle in which both of them were killed.

"I should point out that these actions of the Chief Hierarch are recognised as treasonous even within the Priory. Rongyao himself agreed the posthumous conviction of his father for treason, and executed or exiled those who were closest to him during his plotting.

"With the Qzare dead and the Priory still in rebellion, Prince Tailong, his heir, wrote to the vassals of the Imperium, informing them he would not take the Silver Throne without their support, since he had no wish to prolong the war if unnecessary. To a man, the vassals declared their support for him. In the time this took to determine, however, Patriarch Gloriosis, now calling himself Zuida Rongyao, had unilaterally declared himself Qzare in Anaphorica, without consultation of anyone, and crowned himself. I have no idea on what basis he claimed that title. The Priory has only ever advanced arguments against the house of Xiu and never explained the basis for its own claim.

"When Zhuang invaded Bor-Teire, there was no man who would have condemned Tailong for standing aside and letting Zhuang defeat his sworn enemies, but he did not. It was he who discovered and issued warnings of what Zhuang was planning, so that the Priory might prepare. He raised his army and marched to defend the people who had killed his father, for he sees them as his people still, regardless of their crimes. He has received no gratitude or recognition from the Priory for this. Indeed, Rongyao uses Zhuang's invasion as an excuse to condemn Tailong further. So blinded has he become by his hatred for Tailong's family that he has lost any ability to judge the matter rationally."

"I cannot speak as to the private negotiations that have taken place between Tailong and Rongyao. I do know that Tailong has offered to betroth his eldest daughter to Rongyao's son to create a unified Imperial line and been flatly rejected, as Rongyao believes no blood of Xiu can ever sit on the Silver Throne. Rongyao says he has offered to lay down the title of Qzare. If that is true, why has he not done so? Tailong would surely raise no objection - indeed, the principal issue in this whole affair is that he continues to claim that title. You heard him earlier, claiming the Priory did not secede from the Imperium. He still genuinely believes, and asserts at any opportunity on the international stage, that he is Qzare of the entire Imperium, despite all evidence to the contrary.

He stopped for a moment and coughed awkwardly, the sound making a horrible grating, and he almost struck himself in the mouth with his iron hand as he attempted to shield the Emperor from his coughing. Once the coughing was done he screwed up the visible portion of his face in a vague approximation of an apologetic expression.

"My apologies, my lord. In any case, I believe that, while he may think he speaks truth, he lacks self-awareness. He denounces Tailong for the alleged, unproven, crimes of his father, yet is the son of a traitor himself. He cites documents he cannot produce in support of his claim, while insisting the charter - the only document we have ever seen on the subject and certainly the only one we have ever signed - is irrelevant. He calls himself a man of peace, but maintains the largest standing army in the south, which he uses to occupy Bor-Teire and Minotron and oppress the Lord of Fire worshippers there. He calls northerners barbarians and the Lord of Fire a "fire demon", yet calls for and accepts foreign aid when those he claims as his subjects turn against him. He asserts Tailong has lost the support of the people, and makes his own claim to the title on the basis of popular consent, when four-fifths of the Imperium stand in support of Tailong and in denial of him. He claims he wishes for the Imperium to be united, yet allows his own lands to divide it physically and politically, to the extent that the Qzare would no longer be able to defend me from military attack without crossing Priory land, and from what I understand Rongyao has rejected any attempt at settlement that does not result in all his demands being met. He talks of compromise, but I do not think he knows what it means.

"And now the Qzare is missing, on a diplomatic mission to Salteire. Whether he crossed the border, whether the Priory have killed or imprisoned him, whether he was ambushed by bandits, I know not. But Rongyao himself appears entirely unconcerned as to Tailong's fate, as you have seen. Assuming he has not, as he claims, taken action against Tailong directly, he is not interested in discovering what has become of the man he once called brother, only in securing his own position. Whatever he may say or even believe, he has no interest in the rest of the Imperium, nor indeed in the world outside the Imperium, save as additions to his own domain and allies to prop up his own position in defiance of the will of those he claims to rule. This is the truth of it: the Imperium does not want him. He is no victim in this affair, no more than was Kuramkesh, though at least Kuramkesh had the excuse of being mad. As long as Rongyao makes claim to rule all the Imperium, as he does every day he retains that title, there can only ever be conflict, and he knows this full well. The war of words has gone on for twenty years, trying to prevent another war of swords, but where words are no longer sufficient, eventually swords must be turned to.

"As we have always said, this is a matter of sovereignty. The Priory is in rebellion: Rongyao may be a well-presented and powerful rebel, but a rebel nonetheless."

OOC: Wow, that was super long. Sorry!

OOC: hehe, no biggy. Forgive me for not responding back at such length though ;P. I'll lengthen my response when I get some more inspiration.

"Hmm, conflicting information indeed. You speak of document he cannot produce. Rongyao offered to send the those same documents to prove his claim. Maybe it would be wise to take a look at those documents. However, how rebellious the Priory might be, he also said that he and Tailong were on the verge of making peace with one another.

But, even if I would join this war, thousands of my people would risk their lives for a cause so far from home. My people are disconnected from this conflict, feeling they have nothing to do with it. Morale will be a great problem. Without compensation, I am unsure if I can fight for your cause. Or for the Priory's, for that matter."


All the reactions on Ridovo...

Wayve lept into action, brandishing his axe at the first sight of Ridovo. The red runes upon the axe started to glow, and similar marking appeared all over Wayve's body.

"YOU! Ridovo the Crazed, Herald of the Cataclysm, exiled by my grandfather. So it was you who tried to throw this world into disa.."

Ridovo's eyes fell upon Wayve, and his face distorted into one of utter disgust.

"SILENCE, YOU WORM! YOU BASTARD! Your mother dared to thin the royal blood! THAT WHORE! You are nothing more than an insignificant worm!"

With a roar, Wayve charged at the exile, moving at inhuman speeds, a tidal-wave of red anger. With a blood-red arc, Akaitaiyo crashed down... on the spot where Ridovo stood half a second ago. With inhuman grace, he dodged Wayve's blow and almost lazily pulled something out of his sleeve. He threw it at Wayve and upon impact, the object exploded with a loud BANG, throwing Wayve several meters backwards. Wayve only sustained light wounds, a courtesy of his fullplate armoring. All around, other delegations prepared themselves for battle.

Ridovo smiled at all the hostilities, wriggling his finger back and forth.

"Te Te Te, A little bit startled by a bit of blood, aren't we? A bit mad at a poor exile are we? Grabbing your weapons immediately. Well, it would be expected for weaklings to grab their blades upon seeing a superior man. Jealousy this is, yes yes. However, I would advise against harming me or my loyal servants."

Ridovo snapped his fingers and the dancers removed their tops, revealing countless small ceramic bowls ties around their waists.

"I call these fire-blossoms. You just witnesses what they do. They give a nice...how do you call it....BANG...so to speak. And that is only with one of them. Now imagine a couple of....hundreds of them. I have also rigged the building with these darlings. If one of you comes within a mantid lenght of me or my servents, they will ignite the blossoms and blow this palace up. Which would be a utter shame, with all these important people attending. But I guess I have your attention now."

Ridovo walked towards the head, throwing it further into the crowd.

"Do not fret, my future subjects, this is not the one you are looking for. Let me tell you a little story. I was walking in the sunshine with my loyal slaves, when I happened to cross a certain inn, in which a certain sick man was laying abed. He was one of noble birth, on his way to the pathetic party he called the Moonshroud festival. After I healed his illnesses, I asked him one small favor: To give up his lands and become my slave. A small price to pay for his life, no? But no! The FOOL called his guards and attacked me! THE INSOLENCE, THAT ARROGANCE. Only after all the guards were departed for the Obsidian Void, we could take him prisoner. Hhhmm, his name you ask? Something with long.... Leap Tiedlong! That's it. I think some of you are familiar with him, no? I have come here to discuss the matter of handing over your precious Qzare. In exchange though, I want some things. Pledge 10.000 troops to me, so I can begin cleansing this world of all the filth in it. Great men died in pursuit of this noble goal. Hanyeo the Destroyer, Adam the Corrupt, such wonderful men. Such a shame they are gone.... for now."

[Kitsanth]

Later on....

Bombastic music could be heard from outside the hall, steadily coming closer.

Suddenly, the doors bursted open, letting forth a steam of belly dancers, bearing markings and clasped in gold chains around their ankles. A band of people bearing strangle instruments, the source of the music, came marching in, drumming in anticipation. A group of goblins, appearing to be of Zargrim decent, trumpeted upon the arrival of the stranger.
Finally, a palanquin was carried in, carried by four Berapi, one fire, one cold, one storm and one tiefling. They lowered the palanquin, upon which a man stepped out of the luxury cariage. He was old, with a foul, long greyish beard, above which a nose, sharp as a beak, was visible. His eyes were full of malice, confidence and arrogance. His gaze wondered around the hall before he called to all in the room, his voice strong and deep despite his appearance.

If Inigo is there, he recognises him as the man he met in the "Voices from the Shadows" thread.

"Good afternoon, whores and murderers, thieves and beggars. Such a wonder day it is. And you are wasting that day, arguing about who would laid this pathetic little stretch of land. What you should be doing though, is pledge your allegiance to me."

The man walked to one of the table, grabbing a slice of meat of a ladies plate and taking a big bite, the juice dripping in his beard. He continued his rant:

"Oh, who am I you ask? Well, I am glad you have the wits to ask. I am Ridovo the Great, Master of Shadows, rightful ruler of Telluris. And why do just show up like this? Well, I've brought you dear Salterri a little present."

One of the dancers conjured a burlap bag out of the palanquin, red with blood, which the dancer threw unto the table. Out of the sack rolled a head, cut of savagely by the neck, his face torn assunder. The only thing that was visible was a red beard and the man's red hair.

"I heard you were looking for somebody. I might be able to......help."

OOC: This is all discussed with Morph, I invite all of you to find out what the flip is going on?

"The man is insane!" Exclaimed Branimir as produced a pair of concealed throwing knives. "I recommend we leave at once."

"No, leaving now will only leave us ignorant of these unfolding events." Vanya stated decisively as he produced a sword from an unlikely location.

Branimir, having served as the Grand Prince's personal guard for many years by this point, had almost been expecting that response and so was already moving to screen Vanya from possible attack.

[lt_murgen]

Opus smiled, and calmly began walking toward the man. A faint whiff of mold and open graves followed him.

[Rizban]

Rongyao seemingly remains unmoved by the sudden disturbance or the severed head. His cold stare remains fixed on the man, hand upon the hilt of his sword. Beyond that, he remains still and silent... for a change.

[Lord_Burch]

Councillor Giroux- having left the conference earlier to respond to a message from his compatriots in Bordeux- stood stock still for a second at the door. Crouching, he pulls out a small, ceramic container with a wick sticking out of it, and stealthily moves along the outer edge of the room toward the door, although something could be said for his idea of stealth.

[Aedilred]

"Valéria," Siggi said, still looking at Ridovo, "I suggest you leave and take word to my cousins in Aus-Teire of what has happened here. Jan, Wyk, go with her."

Valéria looked for a moment as if she was about to protest, but he shook his head once, firmly, and the two guards helped usher her towards the door.

"For one apparently obsessed with history, you are surprisingly ignorant of it," he said to Ridovo. "You are not the first madman to accord himself titles to which he has no right. They have all fallen, one way or another, and better folk than you have attempted to establish a world government in this very room, only to meet with failure. Do you really think some loud music and parlour tricks will change that?" His gaze flickered towards the Emperor, apparently largely unhurt by the explosion. "But for all your ignorance of history, you are more ignorant of people, it seems. I have lost much in the service of my Qzare: your toy fireworks do not scare me now."

He had not chosen Valéria's companions at random, for they were men of his own clan. The rest of his attendants were Scowen men, trained by the earl himself. For eliminating a target quickly and neatly, there were probably none better outside the Triumvirate itself. They stood at ease, one of them behind him, another next to Rion, two more further back, awaiting his signal.


OOC: hehe, no biggy. Forgive me for not responding back at such length though ;P. I'll lengthen my response when I get some more inspiration.

"Hmm, conflicting information indeed. You speak of document he cannot produce. Rongyao offered to send the those same documents to prove his claim. Maybe it would be wise to take a look at those documents. However, how rebellious the Priory might be, he also said that he and Tailong were on the verge of making peace with one another.

But, even if I would join this war, thousands of my people would risk their lives for a cause so far from home. My people are disconnected from this conflict, feeling they have nothing to do with it. Morale will be a great problem. Without compensation, I am unsure if I can fight for your cause. Or for the Priory's, for that matter."

"He has had twenty years in which to produce these documents, and has not. He is quick to claim he is willing to do anything to bring about peace, less quick actually to do it. From what I understand, some of his arguments do have a basis in Salterri law, such as Wandao's surrender of the title of Qzare when captured in Hrathan-Tuor. But many of his conclusions are merely one interpretation among many, and not one to which the majority of the Imperium subscribes. Perhaps this time, despite all that has gone before, he truly did intend to make peace with Tailong, but until the Qzare is found, and until Rongyao's signature is on such an agreement, we must remain sceptical, for we have heard it all before. Throughout this whole affair he and the Priory have promised much and delivered nothing. This talk of a peace agreement conveniently cut off before it could be signed, and pinning the whole blame on his opponents, is in common with their normal stalling tactics, buying him time to raise yet more soldiers and ensuring the war will continue for another generation.

"As I say, I did not come here to recruit you to our cause. We have made no demands on any of our allies to join our cause in this conflict, since this is an internal matter we believe should have been settled internally. Had Guilder not interfered, we would likely already have done so, the rebuilding could have begun, and this council would have been able to proceed with its intended purpose instead of verging into digressions on blame. Since Rongyao appears to be making attempts to call you to his side, however, and bark his vitriol for our missing liege to all who will listen, it would be irresponsible of me not to present you with our version of events and plead for you to proceed with your intended neutrality, for for us to end up in conflict with Hurosha over this would be a tragedy."

[lt_murgen]

Councillor Giroux- having left the conference earlier to respond to a message from his compatriots in Bordeux- stood stock still for a second at the door. Crouching, he pulls out a small, ceramic container with a wick sticking out of it, and stealthily moves along the outer edge of the room toward the door, although something could be said for his idea of stealth.

"Pardon me, Councillor, could you point me to the exit?" John LaFiite asked the poorly skulking man. "I have no desire to be set on fire."

[DurkBlanston]

Wayve gave the couple a long look.

"Would it be wrong to come to their defense? As I have told Siggi, your peer, to my knowledge, the Priory has never attacked the Imperium itself, only being attacked by the Salterri Heartlands and its vassals. I am tempted to think there is a side of the story that you and the Ambassador of the Carmine Sea are not telling me. And according to your words, Bordeux and Guilder are also "splitting the face of the right to rule". Perhaps they know something I do not. The Priory has assured me they never welcomed Tailong into their lands, him not even having crossed Priory borders. I am beginning to think that this entire war is based on false information.

Therefore, I must implore you to stop the attacks, at least temporarily. Find your Qzare, learn the truth. No matter what crimes the Priory have commited in the past, the abduction of Li Tailong is not one of them. More than enough people have died. This is not a matter of Prowess any longer. This fight is just as meaningless as two mice fighting over a piece of cheese large enough to share."



"Claiming defense when in open defiance of their liege is a common trick of language used by the Priory. Would it be acceptable to you and counted not as an offense if your vassal Tekorva were to suddenly declare its leader sovereign of the entirety of Hurosha, made no move against your lands, but built armies yearly and refused to recognize you as the legitimate ruler of your own domain as well as privately resisting any attempt at peace while loudly and publicly proclaiming oppression and refusal to negotiate by yourself despite it being their own unbending ways that prevented resolution?"

"The Priory attacks and attacks and attacks with words, refusing to listen when other words return to them but crying out all the louder when at long last, when their abuses and slander have gone to far, a sword is pointed at them. I do not fault Guilder greatly for its actions, they are a meddling state, if well meaning, and as I have said, on their surface the Priory's words are convincing ones, so much as to fool my father for a time, but the truth as it comes to be revealed is forever and always against them and they know this."

"I believe the Priory may not have abducted Tailong, but if they had why would they admit to it? Even if they hadn't I can assure you Rongyao would have refused peace as he always has and the war would still occur. It has been broiling for 20 years, that it now boils over should not be an invitation to add more heat by tossing in further nations to an internal matter, I agree the attacks must stop, and they will when the Priory sits punished for its insolence."

Gaius visibly restrained himself from responding the baited words that the war his people were dying in was meaningless and the likening of his nation to an overhungry field mouse and said at last.

"You asked to be convinced to support one side or another. You seem an intelligent man, let me then make a proposal that will I think beat any other offered to you. Keep your troops home, keep them comfortable in their home regions with their families, their husbands, wives, children, do not send them to die in a war you feel is meaningless. In exchange for keeping your people happy and in turn keeping my own from facing greater death I will see my brother grant to you three boons."

"One, an additional stack of Wurms from my Protectorate of Wyrmar shall be shipped to any region of yours you so desire them. The trade for your Shintouite is much loved in our lands, another stack of Wurms would be seen by many as only a fairer payment for the wonders of your stone which is why it would not yet be enough. Two, my daughter Claudia is yet young, only just this year to see her first decade, but she is healthy, she is smart, and she is Caercian. Her mother and I," he glanced at Aru, "Have debated among ourselves and with my brother that perhaps she would make a better leader of Wyrmar than her younger brother as she has shown much aptitude but perhaps there is another solution."

"While we had not plans for such things when arriving allow me to offer you my daughter to be wed to a trusted man of your own. If you agree your man shall be granted title Protector of Campestrus Pratum should the war go as desired and shall rule jointly with my daughter Claudia, herself to be styled Governess of Campestrus Pratum as myself and my own wife have ruled Wyramr. While the land would still be subject to Caercian law and governance as your chosen and his heirs would be co-rulers of the province a third boon would yet come as well."

That is three, a stack of each resource present and future produced in Campestrus Pratum shall be shipped in perpetuity to your Empire to be used however you so desire as a sign of friendship and a bond between our people."

"These offers are not made to gain your support through military might, they are made only to strengthen the positive results that would already result from your staying far and abroad from this war and keeping your people safe and living."


*Terrorists and whatnot*

Gaius grabbed Aru as the madman burst into the room, pulling her away and behind the closing body wall of five Caercian Riders, who despite lacking their steeds were nonetheless quite capable fighters. He ordered three of the guards to take Aru and follow Valeria, himself reaching for a sword belt that was not there for he had come in peace to this delegation. One of the departing guards tossed him his own short sword and he stood poised ready while the remaining two Caercians flanked him.

He glanced towards Siggi and then cast a look towards Rangyao, who seemed suspiciously calm. He wouldn't put it past him for these two to be connected.

[WaylanderX]

"Claiming defense when in open defiance of their liege is a common trick of language used by the Priory. Would it be acceptable to you and counted not as an offense if your vassal Tekorva were to suddenly declare its leader sovereign of the entirety of Hurosha, made no move against your lands, but built armies yearly and refused to recognize you as the legitimate ruler of your own domain as well as privately resisting any attempt at peace while loudly and publicly proclaiming oppression and refusal to negotiate by yourself despite it being their own unbending ways that prevented resolution?"

"The Priory attacks and attacks and attacks with words, refusing to listen when other words return to them but crying out all the louder when at long last, when their abuses and slander have gone to far, a sword is pointed at them. I do not fault Guilder greatly for its actions, they are a meddling state, if well meaning, and as I have said, on their surface the Priory's words are convincing ones, so much as to fool my father for a time, but the truth as it comes to be revealed is forever and always against them and they know this."

"I believe the Priory may not have abducted Tailong, but if they had why would they admit to it? Even if they hadn't I can assure you Rongyao would have refused peace as he always has and the war would still occur. It has been broiling for 20 years, that it now boils over should not be an invitation to add more heat by tossing in further nations to an internal matter, I agree the attacks must stop, and they will when the Priory sits punished for its insolence."

Gaius visibly restrained himself from responding the baited words that the war his people were dying in was meaningless and the likening of his nation to an overhungry field mouse and said at last.

"You asked to be convinced to support one side or another. You seem an intelligent man, let me then make a proposal that will I think beat any other offered to you. Keep your troops home, keep them comfortable in their home regions with their families, their husbands, wives, children, do not send them to die in a war you feel is meaningless. In exchange for keeping your people happy and in turn keeping my own from facing greater death I will see my brother grant to you three boons."

"One, an additional stack of Wurms from my Protectorate of Wyrmar shall be shipped to any region of yours you so desire them. The trade for your Shintouite is much loved in our lands, another stack of Wurms would be seen by many as only a fairer payment for the wonders of your stone which is why it would not yet be enough. Two, my daughter Claudia is yet young, only just this year to see her first decade, but she is healthy, she is smart, and she is Caercian. Her mother and I," he glanced at Aru, "Have debated among ourselves and with my brother that perhaps she would make a better leader of Wyrmar than her younger brother as she has shown much aptitude but perhaps there is another solution."

"While we had not plans for such things when arriving allow me to offer you my daughter to be wed to a trusted man of your own. If you agree your man shall be granted title Protector of Campestrus Pratum should the war go as desired and shall rule jointly with my daughter Claudia, herself to be styled Governess of Campestrus Pratum as myself and my own wife have ruled Wyramr. While the land would still be subject to Caercian law and governance as your chosen and his heirs would be co-rulers of the province a third boon would yet come as well."

That is three, a stack of each resource present and future produced in Campestrus Pratum shall be shipped in perpetuity to your Empire to be used however you so desire as a sign of friendship and a bond between our people."

"These offers are not made to gain your support through military might, they are made only to strengthen the positive results that would already result from your staying far and abroad from this war and keeping your people safe and living."


Wayve carefully studied his peers reactions, his face straight even when the offer was mentioned.
Eventually he nodded and apologetically placed his hand on Gaius' shoulder.

"I apologize for my words, sir Gaius. I must admit I lied about this battle being useless. When a person falsly claims to be the rightfull ruler and decieves his people, action must indeed be taken. However, I had no insights about who was the betrayer in this case. Rangyao makes it seem as if the house of Xiu and the vassals who support him are mindless brutes who think nothing of death and only life for war, their bloodlines cursed. But your face betrays your true feelings. You care for your peace, it pains you to send them into danger. At the least, I now know that you aren't the brutes Rongyao makes you out to be. So please, forgive me."

Wayve smiled.

"As trouble stirs in the north, I am more then happy to focus my attention to there, but people from both sides are dying here. If there would have been anything I could have done to even half the bloodshed, I would have marched here in force. Alas though, that does not seem to be the case. And about your offer. This offer is not made in friendship, only serving to keep me away from this battle. I would like to accept it, as tempting as it is, but that would be a blemish upon my and my people's Prowess. Therefore, here is my counter proposal. In addition to your terms, all those of Palas Caercia will be permitted to study at the Academy of Culture and Prowess. As for the marriage, I am not opposed to it, but your daughter and my man should connect. It wouldn't be wise to force it. I have a nephew, named Marevain Earthguard. He should be around 14-15 years of age at the moment, so age-wise, it would be a good mix. And finally, I will send you two units of Keldagrim gold for you to do with what you see fit. What say you, Gaius? A deal made in friendship, instead of it only being a bribe for me not to get involved."


*Timebubble due to me missing DarkDM's attack*

Tzalteclan's assassins lept into action, letting their knives fly. And it was good thing to that they did not try to stab them too. Four of the dancers fell to the ground, and a loud crack could be heard from under their clothes as they fell. The other dancers distanced themselves from the fallen quickly, as their bodies caught fire and exploded, sending a heatwave through the whole hall and killing one of the goblins trumpet players.
Ridovo looked at the fallen and said:

"Well, that's a damn shame, those were four of my best dancers. You killed Ippik aswell. I did love his trumpeting. Awell, I can always get new ones I guess. But try that again, and this will happen."

Ridovo conjured a fireblossom out of his sleeve and threw it into the crowd. It exploded, severly injuring 3 people.

"If you do not LAY OFF, I will kill everyone present here." Ridovo said to the Tzalteclan delegation.


*End timebubble*


"Pardon me, Councillor, could you point me to the exit?" John LaFiite asked the poorly skulking man. "I have no desire to be set on fire."

Ridovo spotted the two gentlemen, hearing LaFiite talk drew his attention.

"YOU TWO! Go stand over by the rest, you do not have my permission to skulk around nor leave! Oh and while you at it, drop that bomb, will ya mate? If you don't want to blow up yourself that is."

[DurkBlanston]

Wayve carefully studied his peers reactions, his face straight even when the offer was mentioned.
Eventually he nodded and apologetically placed his hand on Gaius' shoulder.

"I apologize for my words, sir Gaius. I must admit I lied about this battle being useless. When a person falsly claims to be the rightfull ruler and decieves his people, action must indeed be taken. However, I had no insights about who was the betrayer in this case. Rangyao makes it seem as if the house of Xiu and the vassals who support him are mindless brutes who think nothing of death and only life for war, their bloodlines cursed. But your face betrays your true feelings. You care for your peace, it pains you to send them into danger. At the least, I now know that you aren't the brutes Rongyao makes you out to be. So please, forgive me."

Wayve smiled.

"As trouble stirs in the north, I am more then happy to focus my attention to there, but people from both sides are dying here. If there would have been anything I could have done to even half the bloodshed, I would have marched here in force. Alas though, that does not seem to be the case. And about your offer. This offer is not made in friendship, only serving to keep me away from this battle. I would like to accept it, as tempting as it is, but that would be a blemish upon my and my people's Prowess. Therefore, here is my counter proposal. In addition to your terms, all those of Palas Caercia will be permitted to study at the Academy of Culture and Prowess. As for the marriage, I am not opposed to it, but your daughter and my man should connect. It wouldn't be wise to force it. I have a nephew, named Marevain Earthguard. He should be around 14-15 years of age at the moment, so age-wise, it would be a good mix. And finally, I will send you two units of Keldagrim gold for you to do with what you see fit. What say you, Gaius?"


Gaius' face broke into a relieved hint of a smile and it became apparent he had been quite anxious in waiting now that he was more relaxed. Aru put a hand on his arm which he covered with his own.

"Yes. Yes, thank you your Eminence," he took a deep breath, "These years have not been easy, it is good to have something positive finally come about. When this war is over I invite you to send Marevain down here that he might grow accustomed to the land he would Protect and meet she who he would protect it beside. You have made a lasting friend here this day Emperor Wayve. That you show such honor as to insist upon a fairer deal when mine are in no position to demand such speaks highly of your character, your Prowess," he corrected himself.

"Thank you Emperor, you are a great man, your kindness this day shall not be forgotten." Aru added smiling.

OOC: Shall we add this deal as a sub-action then? Also, I was wondering if you would be interested in RP changing the deal down the road in regards to the marriage? I would prefer to marry Cornelia Caercia, daughter of the Lord Protector himself and only a year younger than Claudia, off for administration of CP but as she is the child of Gaius' older brother and Lord he was in no position to make such an offer here so I was thinking perhaps Marevain comes down and falls for and is fallen for in turn by Cornelia and not Claudia and the deal is reworked when that happens. Same deal as before, just a different person to open up some options for myself as a player to assigning administration of things to different folks.

[Lord_Burch]

"Pardon me, Councillor, could you point me to the exit?" John LaFiite asked the poorly skulking man. "I have no desire to be set on fire."



Ridovo spotted the two gentlemen, hearing LaFiite talk drew his attention.

"YOU TWO! Go stand over by the rest, you do not have my permission to skulk around nor leave! Oh and while you at it, drop that bomb, will ya mate? If you don't want to blow up yourself that is."

Glaring at LaFitte, he sighs and straightens up.

Well, I suppose I could, if you insist. He lights the wick and tosses it at Ridivo. His throw is a little weak, and his aim is a bit off, but he does manage to send it into some of Ridivo's retainers, sending broken pottery shards flying.

[WaylanderX]

"Pardon me, Councillor, could you point me to the exit?" John LaFiite asked the poorly skulking man. "I have no desire to be set on fire."


Glaring at LaFitte, he sighs and straightens up.

Well, I suppose I could, if you insist. He lights the wick and tosses it at Ridivo. His throw is a little weak, and his aim is a bit off, but he does manage to send it into some of Ridivo's retainers, sending broken pottery shards flying.

The pottery shards do not do alot of damage, but they manage to rip some cloth of the palinquin. A person, a bag over his head, is visible through the gap.

Sighing, Ridovo says:

"Ah, you shouldn't have done that. I'm now kind of done with you all killing my entourage. Giri, kill him."

A small figure slips from the shadows, moving lightning fast to Giroux. The wickedly smiling face of a small man appeared before Giroux's eyes.

"OoOoH, StaBbiStab! ByEbYE!"

Flashes of metal was visible, the whole ordeal lasting no longer then two seconds, razorsharp cuts aimed at Giroux's throat.

OOC: Militairy roll: 19, please roll against him to see what happens, Burch.

Ridovo walked towards the palinquin.

"I think it is time you all took this a little bit more serieusly. Behold..."

He dragged the man inside the palaquin to his feet, stumbling when he left the vehicle. He was dressed in rags that once were fine clothing (Salterri members recognise Royal Imperial style clothing), fresh scars running all over his body. Twenty fire-blossoms were tied around his waist, ready to explode. Ridovo ripped the bag from the man's head.....
Revealing no other than Li Tailong, Qzare of the Salterri Imperium.
Ridovo took out a rusted but sharp dagger and placed it to Tai Long's throat.

"Oke, so here is the deal, with the next offensive move anyone makes, this boy dies. Understood? Yes? Good. Now let's talk bussiness."

[Aedilred]

He dragged the man inside the palaquin to his feet, stumbling when he left the vehicle. He was dressed in rags that once were fine clothing (Salterri members recognise Royal Imperial style clothing), fresh scars running all over his body. Twenty fire-blossoms were tied around his waist, ready to explode. Ridovo ripped the bag from the man's head.....
Revealing no other than Li Tailong, Qzare of the Salterri Imperium.
Ridovo took out a rusted but sharp dagger and placed it to Tai Long's throat.

"Oke, so here is the deal, with the next offensive move anyone makes, this boy dies. Understood? Yes? Good. Now let's talk bussiness."

"Offensive move?" Siggi asked. "Your very presence is offensive, to the senses and to the sensibilities. In fact I am not sure what is more offensive, your appearance, your presumption, or your stupidity. You demand ten thousand men in exchange his life? I cannot simply snap my fingers-" he raised his hand as if to do so, then looked at it for a moment. "I cannot snap my fingers. But if I could, I could not make ten thousand men magically appear. I should have to return to Vennland, and yet you have prohibited us from leaving. So are we to stand here staring at each other listening to this inanity until we die from old age and boredom? If that is your plan I should rather you blow us up now."

He glanced down at Tailong. "Since your presumption and foolishness seem to be exceeded only by your ignorance, you will likely not have realised a key failing of your strategy on which I'm sure Patriarch Gloriosis would be more than happy to expound. The man you have in custody is not the Qzare. You have tipped your hand as holding nothing of any political value, and yet should you slay your prisoner you will not leave this room alive. As a personal promise, if you hurt him I shall ensure that what was done to me will look merciful by comparison. Release him now, alive and unharmed, and you may yet be granted the mercy of a quick death."

OOC: if you have anyone outside the council chamber, Ridovo apparently did nothing to stop Valéria from leaving.

Her husband's ranting, and the confusion resulting from the explosions, the actions of the Tzaltec assassins, and the Bordeux ambassador, had distracted Ridovo long enough for Valéria and her companions to make it out of the chamber apparently without being spotted. As soon as they were out of sight and immediate earshot, they ran, Jan and Wyk with swords in hand and covering their lady, heading out the way they had come in and looking for anyone, anyone at all, to tell of the events within.

[Rizban]

"I will not seek to bribe you for your assistance. That would be rather poor form.

I can offer you only this: The continued friendship of the Priory and its vassal. We do seek cultural exchange and exchanges of good and services with our allies, but I will not use such things to try to sway your position."
"Offensive move?" Siggi asked. "Your very presence is offensive, to the senses and to the sensibilities. In fact I am not sure what is more offensive, your appearance, your presumption, or your stupidity. You demand ten thousand men in exchange his life? I cannot simply snap my fingers-" he raised his hand as if to do so, then looked at it for a moment. "I cannot snap my fingers. But if I could, I could not make ten thousand men magically appear. I should have to return to Vennland, and yet you have prohibited us from leaving. So are we to stand here staring at each other listening to this inanity until we die from old age and boredom? If that is your plan I should rather you blow us up now."

He glanced down at Tailong. "Since your presumption and foolishness seem to be exceeded only by your ignorance, you will likely not have realised a key failing of your strategy on which I'm sure Patriarch Gloriosis would be more than happy to expound. The man you have in custody is not the Qzare. You have tipped your hand as holding nothing of any political value, and yet should you slay your prisoner you will not leave this room alive. As a personal promise, if you hurt him I shall ensure that what was done to me will look merciful by comparison. Release him now, alive and unharmed, and you may yet be granted the mercy of a quick death."

OOC: if you have anyone outside the council chamber, Ridovo apparently did nothing to stop Valéria from leaving.

Her husband's ranting, and the confusion resulting from the explosions, the actions of the Tzaltec assassins, and the Bordeux ambassador, had distracted Ridovo long enough for Valéria and her companions to make it out of the chamber apparently without being spotted. As soon as they were out of sight and immediate earshot, they ran, Jan and Wyk with swords in hand and covering their lady, heading out the way they had come in and looking for anyone, anyone at all, to tell of the events within.

"Be silent, Jarrlander."

Rongyao stands, his hand clearly still on the hilt of his sword. Sharpnel from the explosion seems to have grazed one cheek, leaving several small trickles of blood that begin to seep into his collar. He takes a step towards Ridovo before overtly moving his hands to show them empty.

"I have seen much death as of late, and I seek no more here today. Name your demands."

[Morph Bark]

Zuei Piandao had always had an unassuming look. Handsome enough to get by among the aristocrats, but a bit too gruff to get by well. He had had more luck in all his years with military men that had known his family for years, or merchants that he could talk business with. Politics was merely another kind of business to Piandao and, in spite of everything, he had ended up being chosen to be the prime minister of the Senate two years prior. People whispered it was only due to his family's reputation and high standing, but his ability to talk business with most anyone had played its part in it. The invitation to an international political event had not been unwelcome to him--it offered a chance to prove himself on a larger stage. He disliked drawing attention, but the man was clearly ambitious underneath that veneer.

He had stayed his tongue for most of the proceedings. A Prime Minister was a man who led, but also listened, and so first, he listened. He'd rather not have had to listen to all the back-and-forth nonsense that had nothing to do with the matter at had, but it was his job to do so. All the better to tell the Qzare later.

And then there was that guy.

When the madman first entered it was almost as if any other king or emperor arrived, but having mistaken the political gathering for a grand ball. Then again, he looked like a northerner, and perhaps they simply played with fire a lot at their balls. Either way, Piandao rose quickly, but the words got stuck in his throat when the man produced a faceless head with red hair so very reminiscent of his lord. "Son of a doge, I'll have yours--" he began, but found himself drowned out in the commotion, until a short silence fell when the madman produced Tailong. "My lord?" He uttered.

Li Tailong stood a bit wobbly on his legs when dragged out and he gave the assembly a weak smile. "I apologize, milords, miladies. I had always thought I'd go out in a blaze, but I had never intended such to be among such fine company."

[Lord_Burch]

Giroux collapses, clasping at his throat. As he falls, the other two grenades he had strike against the ground and ignite, sending more shards out.

Should I make a roll for this?

Two Bordeusi guards, having been left at a stable nearby by Giroux, run towards the doors after they hear explosions, figuring that they must be coming from Giroux, since no one else here is supposed to have anything like that. The two other guards with them had run towards their ship, with a message for the captain. They stop as they see Valria and her guards run out.

Hey! yells the senior of the two. What the devil is going on in there?

[Aedilred]

Siggi rolled his eye, though whether that was at being told to be silent, at being addressed as "Jarrlander", or at the meek submission to the madman's terms, was unclear.

"'Jarrlander'," he said, apparently as quietly as he could manage. "Typical."

"Thank the spirits!" She spoke quickly, without stopping to catch her breath. "Madmen in the council chamber. They have explosives, say they will kill everyone. He said his name was Ridovo. Archers."

One of her guards took up the story as she paused, gasping. "The intruders claim they have explosives stashed all around the building to bring it down. Our hosts must be informed, and the building searched immediately. We were able to make our escape while their attention was distracted, but from what we heard as we were leaving, I fear Ambassador Giroux may have been killed. The Emperor of Hurosha was certainly wounded. Many of them also have explosives strapped to their bodies, and say they will detonate them if they are attacked... hence I believe my lady's suggestion of archers." Valéria nodded breathlessly.

[TheDarkDM]

Senusret had remained seated throughout the commotion, and now wore a singularly unpleasant smile on his face as he gazed at Ridovo.

"Save your threats, buffoon. Tzalteclan does not bow to the demands of madmen, especially ones with such poorly laid plans. The blood of the dragon does not fear death, little man. Do you?"

[Kitsanth]

From his position behind Branimir, Vanya watched the attempted assaults from other delegates. He was not entirely surprised at their ineffectualness.

And then the madman produced his hostage.

Vanya had never personally met the Salterri Qzare and so was dismayed at the confirmation that this madman's prisoner was indeed the missing individual - all those lives lost in the recent conflicts, all due to a miscommunication.

"This man has already named his demands, is that to be 10000 troops each? Or just 10000 in total?" Vanya said blandly, drawing attention to his presence as he moved from his shielded position behind Branimir. "Unfortunately I will have to disappoint you. I would rather die here than accede to any attempt at undermining the neutrality and sovereignty of my nation. In fact, I invite you to try and kill me. Know this however, if you succeed in striking me down, you will make an enemy the likes of which you cannot hope to comprehend."

Branimir began to protest, "No, dyadya, do not tempt this osadka-"

Vanya interrupted, embellishing his words with hand signals, "Plemyannik, if I die here this day, then I die well, a more worthy death than to be murdered in ones sleep, yes?"


"I await your decision." Vanya said, addressing the madman once more.

Vanya is attempting to create a distraction so that Branimir can sneak out and reach the other members of the Prince's guard stationed at the royal airship. (Vanya always travels by airship and tends to leave most of his guard there)

EDIT: added ooc note

[lt_murgen]

The pottery shards do not do alot of damage, but they manage to rip some cloth of the palinquin. A person, a bag over his head, is visible through the gap.

Sighing, Ridovo says:

"Ah, you shouldn't have done that. I'm now kind of done with you all killing my entourage. Giri, kill him."

A small figure slips from the shadows, moving lightning fast to Giroux. The wickedly smiling face of a small man appeared before Giroux's eyes.

"OoOoH, StaBbiStab! ByEbYE!"

LaFitte uses the distraction of the bomb being tossed, it exploding, and the small man attacking to duck out the door. He wasn't around to hear the admonishment about not doing anything else. He was, in fact, moving with all haste out of the building entirely.

Meanshile, Opus approached the man, smiling, stopping within four or five paces of him. He had a glazed expression often seen in people who have had brain trauma. He merely stood and watched events unfold.

[Rizban]

I apparently missed the post where he actually made the demand...Rongyao ignores any biting remarks directed his way. He's heard more than his share over the years. There are more important matters at hand.

"Ten thousand is but a paltry sum of troops, easily raised, easily defeated. No, what you need are winged warriors, flying warriors in numbers that can blot out the sun, raining fire down on all those who oppose you. What you need is a horde of the Angelic, soldiers who have stood against superior numbers and prevailed, capable of slaughtering all who stand before you. Come now, isn't that more suitable for your great aspirations than a small collection of mere men?

Release that man, release this council, and I can make that happen."

[Reggiejam]

Valineth rushed to her husband's side as he was thrown back by the explosion. She knelt beside him, grabbing his head into her hands and leaning in. At a quick glance she would appear to be crying into his shoulder, distraught with panic but in truth she remained calm and spoke quickly and quietly in Wayve's ear.


"Who is this man and how do we stop him? He isn't all there that much is clear, he must have a weakness. You mentioned your grandfather before, how did Marius deal with this man?"

[Rain Dragon]

Ainiveous was a short distance behind Vanya. After all, the Niskan was rather valuable to Fera, though still an expendable asset. Thankfully, the Kaiser had departed earlier, thus reducing those the Prince would have to track. Though he could not see through the blindfokd beneath his mask, Ainiveous had little difficulty sensing those present due to various emotions causing he various attendants' Soul Essences to shine brightly. Each were easy to distinguish; the calm of some contrasting sharply with the panic of others, the blends of cold anger, fear, ruthlessness, high focus all distinct from one another and especially from the maelstrom natural to an insane being's soul. All flowed through Ainiveous' calm being, barely enough to sustain his life. He gathered the folds of cloth closer to his chest.
Were it not for the unfortunate combination of a large amount of lethal force and those present, I could take a good number of these insolent hypocrites out as I escape. As it stands, however, I must wait. It is a shame that I stand, my life force draining from me every second with viable means of survival rather abundant and close at hand, yet I will do nothing. My brother is not ready... Ainiveous thinks to himself as he subtly distances himself from Branimir.

"Would you indeed wish these humans to destroy all of us? How strange."
Ainiveous addressed nobody in particular, his quiet words sharp and crisp yet lacking emotion. He knew that what he had said was inaccurate and irrelevant, yet he said it anyway in the hope that his theory about the Niskans' intentions was accurate. The glowing red crystal formation around his upper arms pulsed as he stood regally beside the shattered remains of one of the chairs.

-OOC: I would really rather you guys do not cause an explosion killing my character...

Also, Ainiveous was described earlier in the thread, if you were curious.-

EDIT - Typo

[Rizban]

Just some bookkeeping stuff, as I probably won't be around to finish out the RP.

Rongyao is not planning to actually give the madman anything, he's simply trying to negotiate to get Tailong free by appealing to the madman's desires.
Even if Rongyao did give the order to follow the man, the angels would likely refuse it anyway.
If he does get into a good position where it won't get anyone else killed, Rongyao will try to kill Ridovo.

[WaylanderX]

Valineth rushed to her husband's side as he was thrown back by the explosion. She knelt beside him, grabbing his head into her hands and leaning in. At a quick glance she would appear to be crying into his shoulder, distraught with panic but in truth she remained calm and spoke quickly and quietly in Wayve's ear.


"Who is this man and how do we stop him? He isn't all there that much is clear, he must have a weakness. You mentioned your grandfather before, how did Marius deal with this man?"


Wayve set up, half of his face scarred by a burn. His armoring negated much of the damage to his torso however, and he was able to sit up. He whispered back to Valineth, his voice still staggered by the blast:

"That man...is Ridovo the Crazed. My grandfather's brother. Aarrgghh...He..he was exiled by him, never to return. Ridovo feared my grandfather. But now that he is gone. I should've seen this coming. Ridovo...he must be stopped, captured, killed. He wishes destruction. He views the Cataclysm as the greatest thing ever happened to Telluris. He worships the corruption in one's soul. Dabbling in alchemy and magic too dark to imagine. If....he is not stopped.... The Cataclysm will happen again... And this time, I am afraid more than only Kasumor will be affected..Hundred of thousands people will die."

Grïend and Kenwyn rushed to their Emperor's side, helping him up. Wayve, bearly able to stand, slightly dazed but futher fine, turned to his two comrads.

"Grïend, protect the people here, you know what to do. Kenwyn, I want those bombs on the dancers dismantled, see if you can stealthly arrange something with the guards present."

Both Ambassadors let out a soft "Understood, my liege.", after which Kenwyn slipped away into the shadows, on his way to the Celerese guards. Grïend rushed to stand in between Ridovo's entourage and as large a part of the foreign delegates as he could. He thundered:

"ALL BEHIND ME...I WILL...PROTECT...!"

Grïend thrusted his hands on the floor, anchoring himself firmly. His crystaline body started to shift shape, widening, forming a thick crystaline shield about 5 meters across.


"I will not seek to bribe you for your assistance. That would be rather poor form.

I can offer you only this: The continued friendship of the Priory and its vassal. We do seek cultural exchange and exchanges of good and services with our allies, but I will not use such things to try to sway your position."

Wayve nodded appreciatively.

"Well spoken, Rongyao. This conversation has been enlighting, but I will have to think this over before I make my final decision. Know however, that whatever the others tell me, I will not move against you. That much you have convinced me off. We will speak again, now if you would excuse me."



Gaius' face broke into a relieved hint of a smile and it became apparent he had been quite anxious in waiting now that he was more relaxed. Aru put a hand on his arm which he covered with his own.

"Yes. Yes, thank you your Eminence," he took a deep breath, "These years have not been easy, it is good to have something positive finally come about. When this war is over I invite you to send Marevain down here that he might grow accustomed to the land he would Protect and meet she who he would protect it beside. You have made a lasting friend here this day Emperor Wayve. That you show such honor as to insist upon a fairer deal when mine are in no position to demand such speaks highly of your character, your Prowess," he corrected himself.

"Thank you Emperor, you are a great man, your kindness this day shall not be forgotten." Aru added smiling.

OOC: Shall we add this deal as a sub-action then? Also, I was wondering if you would be interested in RP changing the deal down the road in regards to the marriage? I would prefer to marry Cornelia Caercia, daughter of the Lord Protector himself and only a year younger than Claudia, off for administration of CP but as she is the child of Gaius' older brother and Lord he was in no position to make such an offer here so I was thinking perhaps Marevain comes down and falls for and is fallen for in turn by Cornelia and not Claudia and the deal is reworked when that happens. Same deal as before, just a different person to open up some options for myself as a player to assigning administration of things to different folks.


OOC: Sure, lets do that, I'm up for some RP. As for the change, I do not really mind.

Wayve smiled and made a small bow, his armoring clancing and chiming in different tones, a courtesy of the three rare metals worked into it.

"Your praise is too great, my lady. I am only doing what I think is the right path that my Prowess dictates. Now if you will excuse me, I have some thinking to do."


""[COLOR="#B22222"]He has had twenty years in which to produce these documents, and has not. He is quick to claim he is willing to do anything to bring about peace, less quick actually to do it. From what I understand, some of his arguments do have a basis in Salterri law, such as Wandao's surrender of the title of Qzare when captured in Hrathan-Tuor. But many of his conclusions are merely one interpretation among many, and not one to which the majority of the Imperium subscribes. Perhaps this time, despite all that has gone before, he truly did intend to make peace with Tailong, but until the Qzare is found, and until Rongyao's signature is on such an agreement, we must remain sceptical, for we have heard it all before. Throughout this whole affair he and the Priory have promised much and delivered nothing. This talk of a peace agreement conveniently cut off before it could be signed, and pinning the whole blame on his opponents, is in common with their normal stalling tactics, buying him time to raise yet more soldiers and ensuring the war will continue for another generation.

"As I say, I did not come here to recruit you to our cause. We have made no demands on any of our allies to join our cause in this conflict, since this is an internal matter we believe should have been settled internally. Had Guilder not interfered, we would likely already have done so, the rebuilding could have begun, and this council would have been able to proceed with its intended purpose instead of verging into digressions on blame. Since Rongyao appears to be making attempts to call you to his side, however, and bark his vitriol for our missing liege to all who will listen, it would be irresponsible of me not to present you with our version of events and plead for you to proceed with your intended neutrality, for for us to end up in conflict with Hurosha over this would be a tragedy."

"It would certainly, sir Siggi. I will talk to your peer of Palas Caercia as well, to hear his point of view. Fear not, your reasons and explanations do make equal and sometimes more sense than Rongyao's. I should tell you this though, I will not move in to attack the Priory under any circumstance. That would only increase the death toll of this war immensely and that would be a price that I'm not willing to pay at present. Now, if you would excuse me."


I apparently missed the post where he actually made the demand...Rongyao ignores any biting remarks directed his way. He's heard more than his share over the years. There are more important matters at hand.

"Ten thousand is but a paltry sum of troops, easily raised, easily defeated. No, what you need are winged warriors, flying warriors in numbers that can blot out the sun, raining fire down on all those who oppose you. What you need is a horde of the Angelic, soldiers who have stood against superior numbers and prevailed, capable of slaughtering all who stand before you. Come now, isn't that more suitable for your great aspirations than a small collection of mere men?

Release that man, release this council, and I can make that happen."

Ridovo laughed loudly at the Qzare's proposal.

"Really now? Then bow down now, resign all your rights to your Qzaredom and proclaim me your lord. Swear it upon the god you hold so dear. Go on...I am waiting."


From his position behind Branimir, Vanya watched the attempted assaults from other delegates. He was not entirely surprised at their ineffectualness.

And then the madman produced his hostage.

Vanya had never personally met the Salterri Qzare and so was dismayed at the confirmation that this madman's prisoner was indeed the missing individual - all those lives lost in the recent conflicts, all due to a miscommunication.

"This man has already named his demands, is that to be 10000 troops each? Or just 10000 in total?" Vanya said blandly, drawing attention to his presence as he moved from his shielded position behind Branimir. "Unfortunately I will have to disappoint you. I would rather die here than accede to any attempt at undermining the neutrality and sovereignty of my nation. In fact, I invite you to try and kill me. Know this however, if you succeed in striking me down, you will make an enemy the likes of which you cannot hope to comprehend."

Branimir began to protest, "No, dyadya, do not tempt this osadka-"

Vanya interrupted, embellishing his words with hand signals, "Plemyannik, if I die here this day, then I die well, a more worthy death than to be murdered in ones sleep, yes?"


"I await your decision." Vanya said, addressing the madman once more.

Vanya is attempting to create a distraction so that Branimir can sneak out and reach the other members of the Prince's guard stationed at the royal airship. (Vanya always travels by airship and tends to leave most of his guard there)

EDIT: added ooc note

"A enemy you have never imagined? My brother was twenty times the enemy you have been. Someone the likes of which will never be seen before. Although I despise him with all of my being, I have to give him that. I have the perfect opponent for somebody like you. You are not worthy to fight me. Giri, kill him. But greet him first, it appears the little boy wants a duel. Then a duel he will get. To the death!"

The same little man as earlier appeared from another set of shadows once again, stopping two meters in front of Vanya.

"HeLlo! Me GIri! YoU Die!"

After uttering those words, he attacked, daggers in hand.

OOC: Attacking Rolls (as a duel, so three times 2d6+half Militairy): 12, 7, 13


LaFitte uses the distraction of the bomb being tossed, it exploding, and the small man attacking to duck out the door. He wasn't around to hear the admonishment about not doing anything else. He was, in fact, moving with all haste out of the building entirely.

Meanshile, Opus approached the man, smiling, stopping within four or five paces of him. He had a glazed expression often seen in people who have had brain trauma. He merely stood and watched events unfold.

Ridovo shrugged at LaFitte's escape. One more or less escape didn't matter that much. He had the more important people right here. He looked at Opus.

"Hello there, friend. Can I be of...service to you? If you want to join me, just say the word and pledge your life to me."


Senusret had remained seated throughout the commotion, and now wore a singularly unpleasant smile on his face as he gazed at Ridovo.

"Save your threats, buffoon. Tzalteclan does not bow to the demands of madmen, especially ones with such poorly laid plans. The blood of the dragon does not fear death, little man. Do you?"

"But the blood of the dragon should fear the blood of a god, you stray mongrel. You haven't seen nothing yet of my plans. Now I would advise you to shut up if you have nothing useful to say, or else these walls might be painted red with that "dragon blood" of yours.


Giroux collapses, clasping at his throat. As he falls, the other two grenades he had strike against the ground and ignite, sending more shards out.

Should I make a roll for this?

Two Bordeusi guards, having been left at a stable nearby by Giroux, run towards the doors after they hear explosions, figuring that they must be coming from Giroux, since no one else here is supposed to have anything like that. The two other guards with them had run towards their ship, with a message for the captain. They stop as they see Valria and her guards run out.

Hey! yells the senior of the two. What the devil is going on in there?

OOC for Burch: Yes please, see if he is mortally wounded yes or no.


"Offensive move?" Siggi asked. "Your very presence is offensive, to the senses and to the sensibilities. In fact I am not sure what is more offensive, your appearance, your presumption, or your stupidity. You demand ten thousand men in exchange his life? I cannot simply snap my fingers-" he raised his hand as if to do so, then looked at it for a moment. "I cannot snap my fingers. But if I could, I could not make ten thousand men magically appear. I should have to return to Vennland, and yet you have prohibited us from leaving. So are we to stand here staring at each other listening to this inanity until we die from old age and boredom? If that is your plan I should rather you blow us up now."

He glanced down at Tailong. "Since your presumption and foolishness seem to be exceeded only by your ignorance, you will likely not have realised a key failing of your strategy on which I'm sure Patriarch Gloriosis would be more than happy to expound. The man you have in custody is not the Qzare. You have tipped your hand as holding nothing of any political value, and yet should you slay your prisoner you will not leave this room alive. As a personal promise, if you hurt him I shall ensure that what was done to me will look merciful by comparison. Release him now, alive and unharmed, and you may yet be granted the mercy of a quick death."

OOC: if you have anyone outside the council chamber, Ridovo apparently did nothing to stop Valéria from leaving.

Her husband's ranting, and the confusion resulting from the explosions, the actions of the Tzaltec assassins, and the Bordeux ambassador, had distracted Ridovo long enough for Valéria and her companions to make it out of the chamber apparently without being spotted. As soon as they were out of sight and immediate earshot, they ran, Jan and Wyk with swords in hand and covering their lady, heading out the way they had come in and looking for anyone, anyone at all, to tell of the events within.

"Oh, not the Qzare? The reactions of the other people in this room prove you wrong, cripple. But it he is of no value, you would not mind if I did this, would you?"

His dagger flashed at Tailong's throat.....

[Rizban]

Ridovo laughed loudly at the Qzare's proposal.

"Really now? Then bow down now, resign all your rights to your Qzaredom and proclaim me your lord. Swear it upon the god you hold so dear. Go on...I am waiting."Rongyao takes a knee but does not bow his head.

"You have only to to show your own greatness by doing as I have asked. I make no binding oaths without assurances. I have always been a man of my word..."


"Oh, not the Qzare? The reactions of the other people in this room prove you wrong, cripple. But it he is of no value, you would not mind if I did this, would you?"

His dagger flashed at Tailong's throat.....

"...but you do not seem keen on keeping your end of the bargain. Surely you are a greater man than that, or are you so weak or fickle that your word means nothing? How can your promise to purge the world of filth be believed if you would lie on such a small thing as the life of a man? Stand in strength, and together, we can make the impure perish and the world burn."

[Kitsanth]

"A enemy you have never imagined? My brother was twenty times the enemy you have been. Someone the likes of which will never be seen before. Although I despise him with all of my being, I have to give him that. I have the perfect opponent for somebody like you. You are not worthy to fight me. Giri, kill him. But greet him first, it appears the little boy wants a duel. Then a duel he will get. To the death!"

The same little man as earlier appeared from another set of shadows once again, stopping two meters in front of Vanya.

"HeLlo! Me GIri! YoU Die!"

After uttering those words, he attacked, daggers in hand.

OOC: Attacking Rolls (as a duel, so three times 2d6+half Militairy): 12, 7, 13

"There is reason none tell tales of having fought a Niskan!"

Vanya attacked, whirling his sword about in flashy moves designed to draw attention. He was clearly loosing, having taken a serious wound early in the fight. Despite that, Vanya soon rallied though his wound proved too much of a hindrance in the end.

With much of the rooms attention focused on the Grand Prince's attempted defiance, Branimir is able to slip somewhat unnoticed from the room.

Fatally wounded, Vanya lay on the floor gasping for breath. Yet he was still able to deliver his parting words, having seen Branimir safely exit the room.

"You are a fool *cough* Grand Prince Vanya has amber eyes," the now revealed Branimir gasped, "He has escaped, and you, you shall not win here this day..."

The light faded from Branimir's green eyes as he died as he lived, in service to the crown of Niskovia.

OOC: Attacking Rolls: 5, 6, 8

[Elemental]

The King of Ashenia stood. A shard of ceramic had flown across the room and pierced his arm causing blood to stain the previously pristine white sleeve of his robe and intermingle with the silver designs.
"He'll never release us Zuida Rongyao. Did you not hear where he claimed rulership of all of Telluris? Deranged lunatics are not so easily bargained with. Go ahead, whatever it is you call yourself. Murder the Qzare, it won't change my mind.
"In fact, kill us all. Earn the enmity of countless thousands and the rightful vengeance of a dozen royal houses. I have three living children and over a dozen living grandchildren, I do not fear that my line is likely to die out."

OOC: He's bluffing of course. His heir is only twelve and not ready to rule.


Slightly late though they were, the King of Ashenia's guards, two dozen men in red cloaks and mithril armour, came running up to the door to the Council Chamber. The Captain spoke up.
"What's going on in there? We heard something that sounded like thunder."
As he spoke, the other guards prepared to charge into the room.

OOC: They have no experience with explosives, so can't identify the sound of them.

[Aedilred]

"Oh, not the Qzare? The reactions of the other people in this room prove you wrong, cripple. But it he is of no value, you would not mind if I did this, would you?"

His dagger flashed at Tailong's throat.....

Siggi's face remained completely expressionless, albeit his injuries made that all but a given. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Vanya fall. For all the sorrow he felt, the prince had at least chosen his own fate, and it reduced the number of people he needed to worry about protecting. With Griend shielding most of the rest of the delegates, it was really only Tailong that concerned him now. His man was still at his back.

"He is not the Qzare, and he would likely tell you that himself, if you stopped waving that ridiculous blade around. But that does not mean I wish to see an innocent man die. Nor should you, since he is the only thing keeping you alive."


The King of Ashenia stood. A shard of ceramic had flown across the room and pierced his arm causing blood to stain the previously pristine white sleeve of his robe and intermingle with the silver designs.
"He'll never release us Zuida Rongyao. Did you not hear where he claimed rulership of all of Telluris? Deranged lunatics are not so easily bargained with. Go ahead, whatever it is you call yourself. Murder the Qzare, it won't change my mind.
"In fact, kill us all. Earn the enmity of countless thousands and the rightful vengeance of a dozen royal houses. I have three living children and over a dozen living grandchildren, I do not fear that my line is likely to die out."

OOC: He's bluffing of course. His heir is only twelve and not ready to rule.

Slightly late though they were, the King of Ashenia's guards came running up to the door to the Council Chamber. The Captain spoke up.
"What's going on in there? We heard something that sounded like thunder."
As he spoke, the other guards prepared to charge into the room.

OOC: They have no experience with explosives, so can't identify the sound of them.

If he could have smiled, Siggi might well have done so. At least the Ashenites could be relied upon to hold to their principles.

Valéria and her companions turned as the guards approached. "Black powder," Valéria said, to the captain's question. "A madman calling himself Ridovo and his followers have taken over the chamber. They have explosives strapped to their bodies, and say they have enough stashed elsewhere to bring the whole palace down if they have to. That might be a lie, but they have already killed or injured some of the delegates with them. I have sent word to search the building, and to summon archers or crossbowmen. As I say, though, he is mad. I think we will need to act quickly."

[WaylanderX]

Rongyao takes a knee but does not bow his head.

"You have only to to show your own greatness by doing as I have asked. I make no binding oaths without assurances. I have always been a man of my word..."

"...but you do not seem keen on keeping your end of the bargain. Surely you are a greater man than that, or are you so weak or fickle that your word means nothing? How can your promise to purge the world of filth be believed if you would lie on such a small thing as the life of a man? Stand in strength, and together, we can make the impure perish and the world burn."

Lowering his dagger, he stared at Siggi, then at Rongyao, a wicked light flashing in his eyes.

"Oh, I am the greatest man you've ever laid eyes upon. But I am also a man of my word. Your respect and willingness to serve shall not go unrewarded. You will be handsomely rewarded indeed. For the rest of you, I do not care if you life or die. Even in death, you will serve me. I have no more need of you, the seed will be planted."

He turned to his mass of servants.

"Lead our guests out, I want to have a....private conversation with sir Li and sir Rongyao. EVERYBODY OUT NOW!"

The servants nodded in unison, guiding those present in the hall outside.

"We will take one of the siderooms, we wouldn't want your new liege to get a bolt into his head, would we?"

Ridovo guided both Tai Long and Rongyao to a side chamber, heavily guarded by a dozen of his dancers. Flikkering in the shadows, around six shadows could be seen darting around the place, harrying everybody outside at a fast pace.

[Rizban]

Rongyao stands to his feet and turns to the assembled representatives.

"Clear the room!"

Seeing some people hesitate, Rongyao speaks in a slightly softer tone.

"Go! You have responsibilities, families. Go and prepare yourselves for what is to come!"

[lt_murgen]

Ridovo shrugged at LaFitte's escape. One more or less escape didn't matter that much. He had the more important people right here. He looked at Opus.

"Hello there, friend. Can I be of...service to you? If you want to join me, just say the word and pledge your life to me."

Opus just stared as the chaos ranged around him. He stood unmoving as the Niskan attacked and was slain. One might think the old man had suffered a stroke or seizure of some kind.

As the servants began to hurry people out, Opus remained, staring. One of the servants touched his elbow. Idly, and without taking his eyes off of Ridovo, his arms moved. The weighted black cloth flashed around the servants neck. Quickly, Opus twisted, tightening the strangling cloth across the servant’s neck and placing his body behind the man, out of the way of attack. He moved automatically, as if by reflex. His gaze was fixed on Ridovo. It was a curious, not angry gaze.

roll is here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17967338&postcount=851)

Around him, the stench of mold and open graves grew stronger.

[Rain Dragon]

Ainiveous could see roughly where this was going and rather than wait to be guided, he left after Vanya instead and continued quickly toward the Celerese wilderness.

[Aedilred]

Siggi cursed silently as, just as Ridovo lowered his knife and his muscles were bunching to step aside and allow his man to take a shot, the madman moved off to one side, pointing Rongyao towards a side room. He shook his head slightly, aborting the move.

One of Ridovo's servants moved alongside him, trying to push him towards the door, and instinctively he lashed out with his metal hand, grabbing at his throat (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17967489&postcount=854).

"Your master's arrogance is bad enough, but you presume to touch me? I'm not going anywhere."


OOC: Way - is Ridovo going out of the main door of the chamber?

[Lord_Burch]

Slightly late though they were, the King of Ashenia's guards, two dozen men in red cloaks and mithril armour, came running up to the door to the Council Chamber. The Captain spoke up.
"What's going on in there? We heard something that sounded like thunder."
As he spoke, the other guards prepared to charge into the room.

OOC: They have no experience with explosives, so can't identify the sound of them.



Valéria and her companions turned as the guards approached. "Black powder," Valéria said, to the captain's question. "A madman calling himself Ridovo and his followers have taken over the chamber. They have explosives strapped to their bodies, and say they have enough stashed elsewhere to bring the whole palace down if they have to. That might be a lie, but they have already killed or injured some of the delegates with them. I have sent word to search the building, and to summon archers or crossbowmen. As I say, though, he is mad. I think we will need to act quickly."

Turning to face the Ashenian captain, Most likely Blackpowder, sir. They have numerous hostages- including your King and our Councillor. I've sent for the men on our ship. Fifty men, all told, 'bout twenty of which are armed with recurve bows. Four grenadiers, too, with four apiece. We can try to blow open the door, but that'll alert them and could cause structural damage- and blow up anything the man has hidden. Your orders?, deferring to the captain's judgement.

[Kitsanth]

Spotting Valéria speaking with a number of guards, Vanya headed towards her.

As he approached, Vanya shed the House Korošec over-robe he had been wearing and stashed the throwing knives away.

Catching the end of the conversation, Vanya said, "I have a number of men aboard my airship, it will not take long to rally them for any rescue action."

[Elemental]

At his being ordered to leave, King Tansan remained firm.
"No. You presume much."
He ignored the servants trying to usher him out. However, despite appearances, the King was not unprotected. He wore a shirt of fine mithril chain beneath his robes and as such, feared little from a direct attack against him. Shame it was a short sleeved one... He raised his voice and spoke in an old dialect of Ashenite, used by the King and his guards to avoid people from understanding them.
"Send word to prepare for regency. Lay siege to this palace and do not any leave this city. That is my order as your King."


"Blackpower? I've heard of its destructive power. We need to clear the building and lock down the palace and detain anyone who shouldn't-."
He stopped as he heard words in a tongue unfamiliar to most.
"Same as before men. Clear the building and lock down this palace, detain anyone who shouldn't be here. Arrange with the city guard to close the gates and someone to warn the civilians to stay inside. No one leaves this city until we receive orders to let them."
As he spoke, a third of the Ashenite guards moved off into the corridors to move people outside and two sped off to carry messages.
"We have about two hundred royal guards aboard ships in the harbour, as well as Crima sailors. I don't know many we'll need, so I called for all of them. You had all best do the same if you have reinforcements available. We may be in for a protracted siege.
What's the situation in there? Is it possible to storm the room safely?"

[QuintonBeck]

Senator Zahra did not hesitate to make his way towards the exit, complying peaceably with the militant dancers. He was an ambassador after all, not a warrior, and it was not his deep desire to lay down his life for his country, especially in such an environ as this. He noted the northwesterner fleeing out into the wilderness and after motioning to his guards made to follow the foreigner.

The Propinlonge humidity quickly saw his finery soaked in sweat and great bugs that might have been interbred with the insects of Kasumor based on size alone buzzed and flew around the Senator and his small retinue. When they were sufficiently outside the range of the terrorists' hearing he called out softly trying to find the northwesterner.

"Feran! Where are you?" he called out in a harsh sounding whisper.

He knew so little of the northwestern people of Fera and Niskovia but he hoped that in this situation they might work together to escape this island alive.

[WaylanderX]

Wayve signalled his Ambassadors, telling them to evacuate everyone. To Vallineth he said.

"My dear, it is better that we leave now this madman still thinks us trash and unimportant. We'll make a stand outside. He will not get away."

His Ambassadors walked out, gently guiding those who rushed outside.

OOC: Wayve is only leaving when Valineth is also stepping outside.


Opus just stared as the chaos ranged around him. He stood unmoving as the Niskan attacked and was slain. One might think the old man had suffered a stroke or seizure of some kind.

As the servants began to hurry people out, Opus remained, staring. One of the servants touched his elbow. Idly, and without taking his eyes off of Ridovo, his arms moved. The weighted black cloth flashed around the servants neck. Quickly, Opus twisted, tightening the strangling cloth across the servant’s neck and placing his body behind the man, out of the way of attack. He moved automatically, as if by reflex. His gaze was fixed on Ridovo. It was a curious, not angry gaze.

roll is here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17967338&postcount=851)

Around him, the stench of mold and open graves grew stronger.

Before leaving for the room, Ridovo gave Opus a good look. The fact that his servant hanged there, sufficating did not seem to bother him.

"Interesting. You smell like death. Strong aswell, yes. I can make use of you. It's clear from your vacant expression, that the lights are not all on upstairs. This could be the chance of a lifetime, this could be sensational news! YOU ARE NOT PREPARED!"

The hallway seems to grow darker, and a chill wind began blowing. Hand outstretched, Ridovo said to Opus.

"Now come here, my child."

Ridovo is trying to brainwash/control Opus. And yes, he is a necromancer. I will need an opposed faith check from you (2d6+half faith), if you please. If you do not want to risk losing your ruler, thats also fine, but I will need to know.
Ridovo's roll: 10 in total


Siggi cursed silently as, just as Ridovo lowered his knife and his muscles were bunching to step aside and allow his man to take a shot, the madman moved off to one side, pointing Rongyao towards a side room. He shook his head slightly, aborting the move.

One of Ridovo's servants moved alongside him, trying to push him towards the door, and instinctively he lashed out with his metal hand, grabbing at his throat (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17967489&postcount=854).

"Your master's arrogance is bad enough, but you presume to touch me? I'm not going anywhere."


OOC: Way - is Ridovo going out of the main door of the chamber?


At his being ordered to leave, King Tansan remained firm.
"No. You presume much."
He ignored the servants trying to usher him out. However, despite appearances, the King was not unprotected. He wore a shirt of fine mithril chain beneath his robes and as such, feared little from a direct attack against him. Shame it was a short sleeved one... He raised his voice and spoke in an old dialect of Ashenite, used by the King and his guards to avoid people from understanding them.
"Send word to prepare for regency. Lay siege to this palace and do not any leave this city. That is my order as your King."


"Blackpower? I've heard of its destructive power. We need to clear the building and lock down the palace and detain anyone who shouldn't-."
He stopped as he heard words in a tongue unfamiliar to most.
"Same as before men. Clear the building and lock down this palace, detain anyone who shouldn't be here. Arrange with the city guard to close the gates and someone to warn the civilians to stay inside. No one leaves this city until we receive orders to let them."
As he spoke, a third of the Ashenite guards moved off into the corridors to move people outside and two sped off to carry messages.
"We have about two hundred royal guards aboard ships in the harbour, as well as Crima sailors. I don't know many we'll need, so I called for all of them. You had all best do the same if you have reinforcements available. We may be in for a protracted siege.
What's the situation in there? Is it possible to storm the room safely?"

OOC: No, he is leaving through a side-room to a room beside the main hall.

"Oke, have it your way, gentlemen. It you are not out of here on the count of ten, you both are dead. I got every experienced knivethrowers and crossbowmen at my disposal, so do not think I am bluffing."


As Ridovo made his way into the room, he signalled one of the goblins, who began counting down in a melodieus voice.

"Ten...Nine...Eight...."

OOC: Militairy rolls (2d6+half Mil) in case Elemental and Aedilred's character have not left when the counting is done. Attack on Siggi is 11, on Tansan 10. If you want to take action during the counting, please include on which count you act ;P.

[Logic]

King Rion had become bored with the useless back and forth provided by the warring Salterri, but he intended to let them finish their grievances. That is, until they had each repeated themselves nearly four times. He began the motion to interrupt when the King of Ashenia entered, but decided not to when the foreign king provided a breif respite from the topic of 'Qzaredom.'

Rion guessed, judging by the looks on everyone's faces, the no one - save Rion himself - was happy to see the Ashenian King. Rion knew the man to be a relative by blood, and was half Ashenian himself. It was good to see his cousin*, even if the Ashenians were too often stereotyped as sticks in the mud.

It wasn't until the madman entered that Rion was truly at a loss for words. Every action the bizarre intruder took left Rion unable to reply. He was in a daze, and it wasn't until the Jarrland delegation surrounded him and escorted him to some measure of safety did Rion realize his follies.

Blast! Why did I leave all my guards outside the room! He cursed himself, and began to formulate plans for the safety of all his guests.

(OOC *If I got the relationship incorrect, please re-inform me)

[lt_murgen]

Ridovo is trying to brainwash/control Opus. And yes, he is a necromancer. I will need an opposed faith check from you (2d6+half faith), if you please. If you do not want to risk losing your ruler, thats also fine, but I will need to know.
Ridovo's roll: 10 in total

Ridovo's thoughts wormed their way into Opus' mind, expecting to find a week, enfeebled soul. Instead, his senses are overwhelmed by a vast, sinking cold. The stench of 10,000 opened graves, rot, and blood assail his nostrils. A sense of hatred and frustration pounds down upon him. Something else is already there. Something vast, dark, and terrible. But also keenly interested in him.
OOC: There are advantages to being the bloodied disciple of the Goddess of Death and Destruction, my roll is [url="http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17968200&postcount=858" 11 [/url]

Opus casually snaps the neck of the servant, allowing the body to fall in a heap. He shuffles over towards Rivolo, as fast as his old legs can carry him. Instinctively, his ruemel is recoiled about his wrist.

[WaylanderX]

Opus just stared as the chaos ranged around him. He stood unmoving as the Niskan attacked and was slain. One might think the old man had suffered a stroke or seizure of some kind.

As the servants began to hurry people out, Opus remained, staring. One of the servants touched his elbow. Idly, and without taking his eyes off of Ridovo, his arms moved. The weighted black cloth flashed around the servants neck. Quickly, Opus twisted, tightening the strangling cloth across the servant’s neck and placing his body behind the man, out of the way of attack. He moved automatically, as if by reflex. His gaze was fixed on Ridovo. It was a curious, not angry gaze.

roll is here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17967338&postcount=851)

Around him, the stench of mold and open graves grew stronger.


Opus casually snaps the neck of the servant, allowing the body to fall in a heap. He shuffles over towards Rivolo, as fast as his old legs can carry him. Instinctively, his ruemel is recoiled about his wrist.

As the body of the servant drops down, the eight fire-blossoms that were tied around her waist exploded, catching Opus in a blast that shook the ground. Opus' legs were blasted, bones breaking, flesh rending, clothes burning.

Meanwhile, Ridovo's face distorted into an expression of ecstasy, his eyes turned up in his sockets.

"This feeling, this power, this darkness, THIS CORRUPTION. I must have it, the Grim Lord will be so happy to have you, my child, oh wonderful child. Just laid down still now, I will take care of everything once I am done with these too. Everything is going to be alriiight....."

A big grin upon his face, the door to the chamber closed.

[Aedilred]

"Blackpower? I've heard of its destructive power. We need to clear the building and lock down the palace and detain anyone who shouldn't-."
He stopped as he heard words in a tongue unfamiliar to most.
"Same as before men. Clear the building and lock down this palace, detain anyone who shouldn't be here. Arrange with the city guard to close the gates and someone to warn the civilians to stay inside. No one leaves this city until we receive orders to let them."
As he spoke, a third of the Ashenite guards moved off into the corridors to move people outside and two sped off to carry messages.
"We have about two hundred royal guards aboard ships in the harbour, as well as Crima sailors. I don't know many we'll need, so I called for all of them. You had all best do the same if you have reinforcements available. We may be in for a protracted siege.
What's the situation in there? Is it possible to storm the room safely?"
Hearing Ridovo's parting word from within, Valéria shook her head. "It doesn't matter. He's going to kill anyone left inside anyway." Her two guards already had swords in their hands. "If we are to save them, we had best act now."

The man at Rion's shoulder leaned in. "Forgive the presumption, lord king, but I suggest it would be wise to leave the room."


As Ridovo made his way into the room, he signalled one of the goblins, who began counting down in a melodieus voice.

"Ten...Nine...Eight...."

Siggi glanced at the man to his left, and nodded slightly. The man raised an eyebrow. "Him," Siggi said, and turned back to Ridovo, calling after him.

"Is the prospect of death supposed to frighten me? For someone so convinced of your own superiority, you lack a great deal of imagination. Nothing more than a preposterous, deluded, cowardly fool. Dead or alive, every one of your victims is, was and ever shall be better than you. You are a nothing, and you will die forgotten as you have lived unknown."

As the goblin's countdown reached two, Siggi stepped to his left, hauling the limp body of the man caught in his metal grip across to interpose it between the attackers and himself, the gears in his prosthetic arm grinding against the strain. One of Siggi's men hurled himself towards King Tansan, attempting to shield him from any further attacks, while the man previously standing behind his lord loosed a bolt (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17968405#post17968405) towards the goblin performing the countdown. The remaining two also brought up their concealed crossbows, shooting into Ridovo's remaining servants.

OOC: Roll of 10 to shoot the annoying goblin in the head. Effect of other shots handwaved.

[TheDarkDM]

A ragged beggar had dared to insult a child of the Teotlkan. A small thing, it would seem. Trivial, to any but the Tzalteca. But the gathered advisors gasped as they heard Ridovo's response. Senusret, for his part, seemed carved from stone as he gave his response, his voice as cold and still as the grave.

"End this."

Like wolves, the four Unmarked burst into action, let loose from their leash to do what they had devoted their lives to. One drew a fan of throwing needles with one had, sending them towards the monstrous Giri. Two more continued their assault on the entourage, using the dancer's own explosive cargo against the assembled motley. And the last reached into his sash and whipped half a dozen egg-sized clay spheres at Ridovo that shattered on contact with flesh and cloth and stone. Tzaltec fire.

Engaging Giri:
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

Attacking the Entourage:
[roll3]

[roll4]

Attacking Ridovo:
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]

or...

[roll8]

[Jeriah]

Rongyao's face darkens, and he grabs the bound Tailong, yanking him back into the side room before the fire bombs could land. Was the fool Tzalteca trying to detonate every explosive in the room? Good goddess but things had turned for the worse. The hosts of these events really ought to enforce a no weapons policy or at least limit them to weapons of personal defense rather than of wholesale slaughter.

[WaylanderX]

Rongyao's face darkens, and he grabs the bound Tailong, yanking him back into the side room before the fire bombs could land. Was the fool Tzalteca trying to detonate every explosive in the room? Good goddess but things had turned for the worse. The hosts of these events really ought to enforce a no weapons policy or at least limit them to weapons of personal defense rather than of wholesale slaughter.


A ragged beggar had dared to insult a child of the Teotlkan. A small thing, it would seem. Trivial, to any but the Tzalteca. But the gathered advisors gasped as they heard Ridovo's response. Senusret, for his part, seemed carved from stone as he gave his response, his voice as cold and still as the grave.

"End this."

Like wolves, the four Unmarked burst into action, let loose from their leash to do what they had devoted their lives to. One drew a fan of throwing needles with one had, sending them towards the monstrous Giri. Two more continued their assault on the entourage, using the dancer's own explosive cargo against the assembled motley. And the last reached into his sash and whipped half a dozen egg-sized clay spheres at Ridovo that shattered on contact with flesh and cloth and stone. Tzaltec fire.

Engaging Giri:
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

Attacking the Entourage:
[roll3]

[roll4]

Attacking Ridovo:
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]

or...

[roll8]


Hearing Ridovo's parting word from within, Valéria shook her head. "It doesn't matter. He's going to kill anyone left inside anyway." Her two guards already had swords in their hands. "If we are to save them, we had best act now."

The man at Rion's shoulder leaned in. "Forgive the presumption, lord king, but I suggest it would be wise to leave the room."



Siggi glanced at the man to his left, and nodded slightly. The man raised an eyebrow. "Him," Siggi said, and turned back to Ridovo, calling after him.

"Is the prospect of death supposed to frighten me? For someone so convinced of your own superiority, you lack a great deal of imagination. Nothing more than a preposterous, deluded, cowardly fool. Dead or alive, every one of your victims is, was and ever shall be better than you. You are a nothing, and you will die forgotten as you have lived unknown."

As the goblin's countdown reached two, Siggi stepped to his left, hauling the limp body of the man caught in his metal grip across to interpose it between the attackers and himself, the gears in his prosthetic arm grinding against the strain. One of Siggi's men hurled himself towards King Tansan, attempting to shield him from any further attacks, while the man previously standing behind his lord loosed a bolt (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17968405#post17968405) towards the goblin performing the countdown. The remaining two also brought up their concealed crossbows, shooting into Ridovo's remaining servants.

OOC: Roll of 10 to shoot the annoying goblin in the head. Effect of other shots handwaved.

Before the flasks of Tzaltic fire could hit, Ridovo ran through the door, pushing both Tailong and Rangyao hardhandedly. The door slammed shut, and the flasks bursted appart on the door, the fire spreading to multiple of Ridovo's servants. The counting goblin fell down with a punctured throat, the number two being the last word he ever said, his fire blossoms exploding when he fell to the ground. Tansan fell to the ground, Siggi's helper covering his body.

Eyes widening, adrenaline rushed through him, clearing up his mind instantly. Picking Valineth up under his right arm, he ran for Griend. When he passed Sanusret, he quickly attempted ti lifted him under his left, breaking out in a desperate sprint after the try. He leapt, diving behind the crystal behemoth. And just in time too.

OOC: Decide if your character goes along with Wayve, DarkDM. If not, he is probably dead.

Within a space of a couple of seconds, 70 fireblossoms exploded, instantly killing all four assasins, Giri and Siggi together with the rest of the entourage. Pieces of debris were ripped from the walls and ceilings, pummelling Griend and even managing to rip pieces of crystal out of the Menhirins body. Griend moaned and cracked under the impact. When the explosions finnally stopped, the devastation was clear. Chucks of stone were missing from the walls and ceilings, the bodies of those unfortunate enough to be caught in the blast lay charred on the ground. Here and there, small pockets of flame persisted. The ceiling above the room which led to the room Ridovo was in also collapsed, completely blocking entrance to the room.

Griend crashed down, the front of his body partially charred black, tired of the effort. Wayve stood up, couching due to the stone dust hanging in the air. He saw that Valineth was alright. Tansan had been protected by the man who pushed him down, who did regretably not survive. Those who stood behind Griend were fine aswel, although a little startled. Wayve sank back down on the ground again. Why were these meetings always so dangerous?

[DurkBlanston]

Gaius had allowed himself to be led outside with the others, concerned for his wife's safety and wary of dying here where this madman had caused so much destruction already.

"What is it your master plans to do with Tailong and Rongyao?" he asked one of the fireblossomed dancers who seemed to be keeping a poor eye on the assembled delegates outside.

As he talked he looked for Siggi, his only direct ally in this whole mess but did not see him anywhere.

Suddenly the building they had just exited erupted with noise and fire, an explosion rocked the Protector and Governess of Wyrmar and they both would have fallen had they not each other to steady themselves on. Gaius' mind raced, Tailong had been inside, he should try to find him, confirm what happened, but the situation was unlikely to allow that. He needed to get away, go back to the south and inform Aus-Teire and Jarrland of what had transpired. He began to move away from the building with the rest of the frightened delegates, holding tightly onto Aru's hand and hoping he might be presented with the opportunity to break for shore and board a ship to escape.

[Jeriah]

"Surprisingly, we still live."

Rongyao brushes dust from his shoulder.

"Sadly, it seems there were many who cared little for their lives or those of others. A shame you won't get to end them yourself.

Now, as agreed, release Tailong alive that you aand I may do what must be done."

[Lord_Burch]

-Is there even an outside anymore?-

Fifty Bordeusi soldiers- all armored in mithril plate and sabers, though some also carry bows- jogged onto the scene, shortly after the explosion.

OOC: I assume at least one of those men is familiar with Bordeusi.

Sergeant, what the hell's going on here?

The building exploded, sir. The Councillor is presumed dead, but both King Tansan and the Qzare Rongyao are believed to be alive.

All right, men, start searching the rubble. Find any who are alive and dig 'em out.

Actually, captain, I believe there are new orders with which you are not... Familiar with, yes? From the Lady herself. Standing orders are now to capture Li Tailong, for questioning.

...Alright, men. Change of plans. Find the Qzare, then hightail it back to the ship. Find Li Tailong.

[Aedilred]

Siggi saw the Tzaltec fire arc through the air as if it were falling underwater. After a quick glance confirmed that Tailong was - at least for the immediate future - safe, his ruined face twisted into something approximating a grin, in marvellous admiration for the utter disregard the Tzaltec delegate clearly had for his own safety. His men kept shooting, eliminating intruders, who seemed momentarily frozen, with impressive efficiency. It was a shame they would likely not survive.

"'Jarrlander'," he scoffed to himself. "Honestly." His mother would have been less amused.

There were worse ways to die than this, as he knew full well. Really, the last year had just been a bonus. He hoped Valéria would understand.


***

After the shock of the explosion and the collapse of the roof above, Valéria's mind raced. All the Carmine delegation save herself had been inside when the room erupted, but she was still of royal blood, and, with so many fleeing, somebody needed to take charge.

"Captain," she said, turning to the Ashenian guards, "we must clear this rubble. There may still be survivors trapped inside."

[Morph Bark]

Before the flasks of Tzaltic fire could hit, Ridovo ran through the door, pushing both Tailong and Rangyao hardhandedly. The door slammed shut, and the flasks bursted appart on the door, the fire spreading to multiple of Ridovo's servants. The counting goblin fell down with a punctured throat, the number two being the last word he ever said, his fire blossoms exploding when he fell to the ground. Tansan fell to the ground, Siggi's helper covering his body.

"Surprisingly, we still live."

Rongyao brushes dust from his shoulder.

"Sadly, it seems there were many who cared little for their lives or those of others. A shame you won't get to end them yourself.

Now, as agreed, release Tailong alive that you aand I may do what must be done."

Tailong shook his head to get the dust out of his hair, but with his hands bound a haze of grey and brown remained over it. "It takes more than a bit of fire to kill a Salterri, ainnit..."

He felt weak. Not as weak as when he had lain sick for nigh a fortnight, but he was far from his usual contest-entering, barrel-chugging self. The chains around his ankles were chafing his skin red and raw, the rapid movement worsening it. He tried to remain standing--having twenty-four of the fire-blossoms strapped to his torso meant a lot of weight, but he wasn't about to have them explode... Not yet.

"Careful, Rongyao. The man is madder than a horny cliffhorn goat and more arrogant than a Zuei."

[Reggiejam]

Valineth moved with surprising grace despite her years and stayed with her husband as they moved to avoid being incinerated by the madman's bomb strapped servants by taking cover behind the massive Griend. As the fiery explosions rocked the foundation she was reminded of the Grand Ball in Aloren, though this seems a sick imitation of the power that had been wrought on those grounds those many years ago.

"Wayve!" she called out, crawling low to avoid the dust filled air, when he found her she pulled him in close, "We need to get people out of here, let me gather the survivors and begin to clear the rubble. You need to stop this man," she looked Wayve squarely in the eye, her jaw set, "Kill him." she finished, moving away from her husband to begin attending to the others.

She found the Ashenian King underneath one who had not made it and helped him remove himself from the weight of the corpse.

"Can you walk?" she asked, looking around and noting the destruction.

The area they were in appeared to be blocked in by the debris that had fallen in, but Griend had helped keep the explosion from bringing the whole building down on top of them. If they wanted to get out they would need to start clearing the rubble near where the exit had once been.

[Lord_Burch]

Tailong shook his head to get the dust out of his hair, but with his hands bound a haze of grey and brown remained over it. "It takes more than a bit of fire to kill a Salterri, ainnit..."

He felt weak. Not as weak as when he had lain sick for nigh a fortnight, but he was far from his usual contest-entering, barrel-chugging self. The chains around his ankles were chafing his skin red and raw, the rapid movement worsening it. He tried to remain standing--having twenty-four of the fire-blossoms strapped to his torso meant a lot of weight, but he wasn't about to have them explode... Not yet.

"Careful, Rongyao. The man is madder than a horny cliffhorn goat and more arrogant than a Zuei."

Hurrying up to them, the Bordeusi captain speaks upQzare Tailong. Esteemed Rongyao. Are either of you injured? The ship doctor, he is one of the best available. The late Councillor ensured it. If you'd come with us, he'll patch you up. And I'm sure we can find a smith to remove those chains and les explosifs, as well. he added. A few of his men had straggled over near them. A couple stood idle, though the majority were still shifting rubble.

[Logic]

Rions ears were ringing. He could see the chaos around him, but all sound was muffled by the exposure to the earlier explosion. Every banner in the room was aflame, most were blackened beyond recognition.

"You monster." King Rion said. He could not hear his own words, nor any replies, but the King pointed an accusing finger at the madman and glared. He started shouting. What, he wasn't sure, and he started after Ridovo before being grabbed by unknown persons and stolen from the room quickly. Rion fought his rescuers, but only halfheartedly, as he only wanted free to pummel the man responsible for so much death on Celero soil.

His rescuers - Ashenians by the look of them - said nothing. At least, nothing Rion could hear.

(OOC: Rion is shouting a litany of barely intelligible curses before being dragged from the room by people he believes to be Ashenian Royal Guards.)

[SamBurke]

Inigo steps out from behind the shelter of Griend, and leans on hand on the Menihirin. "You are a one-of-a-kind friend, dear soul... You saved half the world, just now. Someday, I will be able to repay you. For now, though, we still have the lone madman on the loose..."

[WaylanderX]

Rions ears were ringing. He could see the chaos around him, but all sound was muffled by the exposure to the earlier explosion. Every banner in the room was aflame, most were blackened beyond recognition.

"You monster." King Rion said. He could not hear his own words, nor any replies, but the King pointed an accusing finger at the madman and glared. He started shouting. What, he wasn't sure, and he started after Ridovo before being grabbed by unknown persons and stolen from the room quickly. Rion fought his rescuers, but only halfheartedly, as he only wanted free to pummel the man responsible for so much death on Celero soil.

His rescuers - Ashenians by the look of them - said nothing. At least, nothing Rion could hear.

(OOC: Rion is shouting a litany of barely intelligible curses before being dragged from the room by people he believes to be Ashenian Royal Guards.)


Hurrying up to them, the Bordeusi captain speaks upQzare Tailong. Esteemed Rongyao. Are either of you injured? The ship doctor, he is one of the best available. The late Councillor ensured it. If you'd come with us, he'll patch you up. And I'm sure we can find a smith to remove those chains and les explosifs, as well. he added. A few of his men had straggled over near them. A couple stood idle, though the majority were still shifting rubble.

OOC: Guys, the path to the room is blocked by ALOT of rubble, with no way of getting in or out otherwise. So you cannot reach Ridovo, Rongyao and Tailong untill you cleared it all away, which is going to take some time. This also means Ridovo, Tailong and Rongyao are not visible.

[Lord_Burch]

OOC: Guys, the path to the room is blocked by ALOT of rubble, with no way of getting in or out otherwise. So you cannot reach Ridovo, Rongyao and Tailong untill you cleared it all away, which is going to take some time.

OOC: How long with fifty men? Since, once they presumably inquire as to where they went, the Bordeusi men would get to work on that immediately.

[SamBurke]

OOC: How long with fifty men? Since, once they presumably inquire as to where they went, the Bordeusi men would get to work on that immediately.

OOC: How long with flipping GRIEND helping us?

[WaylanderX]

OOC: How long with flipping GRIEND helping us?


OOC: How long with fifty men? Since, once they presumably inquire as to where they went, the Bordeusi men would get to work on that immediately.

OOC: Two or three posts I would recon / 10 minutes. Its a limited area, so working with all fifty men isn't going to work that efficiently I would think. Still speeds it up though. Grïend is out for the count though, having sustained too much damage to do anything the coming couple of hours.

The reason I do this is to give Morph and Rizban/Jeriah the chance to play something out there before you guys reach them.

Edit: The main entrance has not collapsed, only the entrance to the side-chamber the three aforementioned characters are in, because of the large amount of Ridovo-fanatics in that area. The rest of the area is heavily damaged but not totally collapsed. Sorry for the confusion.

[SamBurke]

OOC: Two or three posts I would recon / 10 minutes. Its a limited area, so working with all fifty men isn't going to work that efficiently I would think. Still speeds it up though. Grïend is out for the count though, having sustained too much damage to do anything the coming couple of hours.

The reason I do this is to give Morph and Rizban/Jeriah the chance to play something out there before you guys reach them.

OOC: Makes sense. I'm OK with waiting.

[WaylanderX]

Valineth moved with surprising grace despite her years and stayed with her husband as they moved to avoid being incinerated by the madman's bomb strapped servants by taking cover behind the massive Griend. As the fiery explosions rocked the foundation she was reminded of the Grand Ball in Aloren, though this seems a sick imitation of the power that had been wrought on those grounds those many years ago.

"Wayve!" she called out, crawling low to avoid the dust filled air, when he found her she pulled him in close, "We need to get people out of here, let me gather the survivors and begin to clear the rubble. You need to stop this man," she looked Wayve squarely in the eye, her jaw set, "Kill him." she finished, moving away from her husband to begin attending to the others.

She found the Ashenian King underneath one who had not made it and helped him remove himself from the weight of the corpse.

"Can you walk?" she asked, looking around and noting the destruction.

The area they were in appeared to be blocked in by the debris that had fallen in, but Griend had helped keep the explosion from bringing the whole building down on top of them. If they wanted to get out they would need to start clearing the rubble near where the exit had once been.

Wayve grunted when he lifted himself up, his eyes clear and full of fury.

"Not only kill, Valineth....Erase....Devastate...I'll even scar his very soul."

His axe began pulsating red light in tandem with his heartbeat as he stood up, turning to the rubble which concieled his prey. Already Bordeux soldiers were working to clear the way. Silent, but with an aura of a raging demon around him, he walked over, heaved a giant rock off the ground, and started helping to clear. Ridovo was his prey.....


Tailong shook his head to get the dust out of his hair, but with his hands bound a haze of grey and brown remained over it. "It takes more than a bit of fire to kill a Salterri, ainnit..."

He felt weak. Not as weak as when he had lain sick for nigh a fortnight, but he was far from his usual contest-entering, barrel-chugging self. The chains around his ankles were chafing his skin red and raw, the rapid movement worsening it. He tried to remain standing--having twenty-four of the fire-blossoms strapped to his torso meant a lot of weight, but he wasn't about to have them explode... Not yet.

"Careful, Rongyao. The man is madder than a horny cliffhorn goat and more arrogant than a Zuei."


"Surprisingly, we still live."

Rongyao brushes dust from his shoulder.

"Sadly, it seems there were many who cared little for their lives or those of others. A shame you won't get to end them yourself.

Now, as agreed, release Tailong alive that you aand I may do what must be done."

The door stopped most of the blast, the fortified wood cracking but holding out, a little puff of smoke appearing below the door. Ridovo seemed rather unphased by it all.

"Damn it, now I need to enslave a new entourage, that's gonnaat least cost me three days."

Ridovo looked at Rongyao.

"Yes, my new servant, let us begin the ritual. You BOTH shall swear frealty to me. Your friend here is too weak to resist anyway. Even unbound, he will not pose that much of a threat to me. And neither do you."

He unchained Tailong, leaving the bombs around his waist, after which he turned to Rongyao.

"Now....kneel before me."


Inigo steps out from behind the shelter of Griend, and leans on hand on the Menihirin. "You are a one-of-a-kind friend, dear soul... You saved half the world, just now. Someday, I will be able to repay you. For now, though, we still have the lone madman on the loose..."

Grïend looked to the Guilderene, his face and body riddled with cracks, holes and burned spots. He looked as if he could splinter at any moment. His voice was still deep, but soft and the words came slow.

"NO....PROBLEM.....GUILDERLING.....I AM....GLAD.....MY PROWESS....COULD....PROTECT.....EVERYONE...."

After uttering those words, Grïend collapsed on the ground, still alive, but unconcious.

[lt_murgen]

John LaFitte managed to escape before the first of the multiple explosions. By the time he managed to get back to the main entrance, the tables were turned and the madman's slaves were being routed.

He quickly joined the group searching for wounded and helping to clear the rubble. Glancing around, he saw Rion with what he thought were Ashenian guards.

At some point, he came across Opus. Burned, his legs a mangled mess, the old bastard was still, miraculously, alive. "Khaditna, the Deciever." He managed to rasp through burned lips and a mangled face. "Khadi stirs..." The effort cost him his last breath.

John removed the black ruemel from his wrist. It was the only thing that was untouched by the explosions. He yelled for a porter to carry the body back to his ship. Then he set about helping the wounded out to safety as best he could.

[Rain Dragon]

Senator Zahra did not hesitate to make his way towards the exit, complying peaceably with the militant dancers. He was an ambassador after all, not a warrior, and it was not his deep desire to lay down his life for his country, especially in such an environ as this. He noted the northwesterner fleeing out into the wilderness and after motioning to his guards made to follow the foreigner.

The Propinlonge humidity quickly saw his finery soaked in sweat and great bugs that might have been interbred with the insects of Kasumor based on size alone buzzed and flew around the Senator and his small retinue. When they were sufficiently outside the range of the terrorists' hearing he called out softly trying to find the northwesterner.

"Feran! Where are you?" he called out in a harsh sounding whisper.

He knew so little of the northwestern people of Fera and Niskovia but he hoped that in this situation they might work together to escape this island alive.

Why?

He could very faintly sense a group of sentients following him. The mortal wound in his chest grew worse for every step that he took as pieces of splintered metal sliced deeper into his flesh.

It was a risk to do this, but I cannot successfully avoid these fools and survive.

Ainiveous so hated being weak or seen as such.

"Feran! Where are you?"

Such an irritating manner in which to address him. The sentients were close and Ainiveous knew it was still day.

They found him standing with great dignity despite clutching his chest, unable to see.
"Leave me."

-OOC-
Ummmm, no idea why you would do that. >.>

Also, he was more like striding away than 'fleeing'. How dare you. :smalltongue:

-EDIT-
Description


At the space set aside for the Ferans, two extremely tall slim human-like beings sat awkwardly either side of a slim figure who was slightly taller than average in height. His hooded black coat was long enough to drag along the ground as he walked and he wore a mask shaped like the face of an Aukii bat. Beside his upper arms floated several red crystals in a wing-like formation. High Prince Ainiveous Elysius, Guardian of the Peace, son of Keshmeo Elysius, daughter of Shadou Elysius simply remained silent and listened to the foreigners' words.

[Kitsanth]

Having briefly departed to gather the guards at his airship, Grand Prince Vanya returned with a score of men to a scene of barely controlled chaos. There were people staggering about, clearly wounded and debris littered the area.
During his absence, Vanya had taken the opportunity to change. He now wore a kuyak gown, with mithril-chain coat. In his hand he wielded a glaive and there were likely other concealed weapons about his person - of note an empty sheathe, likely intended for a sword. The Niskans and Karranan accompanying the Grand Prince were similary armed, several with bows in place of polearms.

"Captain Dhauneld, have two of your finest ensure the safety of Valéria and have Welvraen find Ainiveous. Vierrin, you're with me. The rest of you get these wounded to safety! There are Leikjos at the airship," Vanya said, issuing orders to his men, "And do what you can to clear this rubble, there are likely others trapped inside."

Welvraen and the men assigned to Valéria departed to carry out their assigned tasks. The others got to work, Captain Dhauneld issuing more specific orders as needed.

"But sir, where are you going?"

Vanya had been inching his way towards the council hall. "I go to find Branimir, would any of you do less for the son of your brother?" Vanya asked.

The guards gasped, shocked at this confirmation of Branimir's heritage. Though this truth had been suspected for years, most had thought that Vanya would continue to keep his silence.

"No objections? I thought not."

And so Vanya proceeded into the hall, Vierrin following close behind.

[Jeriah]

The door stopped most of the blast, the fortified wood cracking but holding out, a little puff of smoke appearing below the door. Ridovo seemed rather unphased by it all.

"Damn it, now I need to enslave a new entourage, that's gonnaat least cost me three days."

Ridovo looked at Rongyao.

"Yes, my new servant, let us begin the ritual. You BOTH shall swear frealty to me. Your friend here is too weak to resist anyway. Even unbound, he will not pose that much of a threat to me. And neither do you."

He unchained Tailong, leaving the bombs around his waist, after which he turned to Rongyao.

"Now....kneel before me."Rongyao refuses to kneel.

"That... was not the deal."

His face hardens and his eyes darken. His voice drips with vitriol of thickened by hatred.

"Friend? This man has caused endless trouble for me and mine with his weakness, his cowardice, and his arrogance. I will not serve with him, even serving one like you. I want him free so that he might do all he can to defend himself while I tear apart everything he loves bit by bit until, in total despair, he begs for death. You want my service, you will grant that boon. Destroying everything of his and purging it from the world before ending his life is my sole purpose. Killing him now would never satisfy, and serving with one such as that is abhorrent."

Looking to the wall, Rongyao sees a smaller window, just large enough for a man to fit through but a good distance above the ground. Jerking one thumb towards the window, Rongyao continues.

"He will leave through there. The fall will hurt, but he'll live to suffer another day. You want me to kneel, then send this thing away from us."

[QuintonBeck]

Why?

He could very faintly sense a group of sentients following him. The mortal wound in his chest grew worse for every step that he took as pieces of splintered metal sliced deeper into his flesh.

It was a risk to do this, but I cannot successfully avoid these fools and survive.

Ainiveous so hated being weak or seen as such.

"Feran! Where are you?"

Such an irritating manner in which to address him. The sentients were close and Ainiveous knew it was still day.

They found him standing with great dignity despite clutching his chest, unable to see.
"Leave me."

-OOC-
Ummmm, no idea why you would do that. >.>

Also, he was more like striding away than 'fleeing'. How dare you. :smalltongue:

-EDIT-
Description

OOC: Because I like to cause problems for you Rain :smallwink: And well, Zahra was undoubtedly fleeing so he's assuming everyone else smart enough to leave is also probably fleeing haha

Zahra heard the foreign voice, an unknown accent heavy in the words. Failing to heed the order the Senator and his two guardsmen approached.

"Do you have a way off this island? I can pay-" he stopped as he saw the great being clutching at a wound in his chest.

"Look, let me help you with that," Zahra pulled loose the bolt of fabric that draped over his formal attire, "Sefu, Zuberi, keep an eye out for that madman's entourage," he added addressing his guards.

He may not have been a hero but he wasn't heartless and he certainly wasn't going to risk losing someone who seemed like they had a destination in mind that was away from the chaos. He just hoped failing to stand on ceremony wouldn't lose him his potential escape here. His schooling had touched little on the Far West, such a secluded people, and he didn't know much of their ways beyond nation names but he had heard the Chancellor of Woodwind rant about Niskovia a few times in his career, though most of his drunken tirades focused more on his meeting with his daughter at the Niskan Dance than the place or its people.

[Rain Dragon]

OOC: Because I like to cause problems for you Rain :smallwink: And well, Zahra was undoubtedly fleeing so he's assuming everyone else smart enough to leave is also probably fleeing haha

Zahra heard the foreign voice, an unknown accent heavy in the words. Failing to heed the order the Senator and his two guardsmen approached.

"Do you have a way off this island? I can pay-" he stopped as he saw the great being clutching at a wound in his chest.

"Look, let me help you with that," Zahra pulled loose the bolt of fabric that draped over his formal attire, "Sefu, Zuberi, keep an eye out for that madman's entourage," he added addressing his guards.

He may not have been a hero but he wasn't heartless and he certainly wasn't going to risk losing someone who seemed like they had a destination in mind that was away from the chaos. He just hoped failing to stand on ceremony wouldn't lose him his potential escape here. His schooling had touched little on the Far West, such a secluded people, and he didn't know much of their ways beyond nation names but he had heard the Chancellor of Woodwind rant about Niskovia a few times in his career, though most of his drunken tirades focused more on his meeting with his daughter at the Niskan Dance than the place or its people.

As the stranger was speaking, Ainiveous could not help but begin to feel impatience though he knew it would not help. His Hanseiyoku* began to pulse weakly as Ainiveous sensed approaching sentient life once more. There was no time.

"Despite your intent, your action may be less helpful than you think." Ainiveous' words flowed with a strange grace, flowing gently like a river yet punctuated with the sharp sounds typical to the Haljan language. Though Ainiveous spoke gently, his speech was still cold and... empty sounding, "I could provide you with directions to the Sovereign Principality of Niskovia's airship were you to stay here and leave me be momentarily."

A dart flies from an unknown direction toward Zahra.** Ainiveous was not surprised; he was not pleased either.

--OOC--
Heh.
*The Hanseiyoku are the crystal wing-like formations
**Also, about this, in FFRP I can control my characters and what they do, but of course not what happens to your character.
If you allow it to hit Zahra, it's tipped with a special substance which induces sleep for an hour or so. Side effects may include fatigue for a bit afterward or maybe dizziness. It's a relatively safe thing, I imagine, though.

Also, provided a description of the Kardilossas accent. The Orthyknin/Visyknin do not typically speak Haljan among each other.

[Kitsanth]

As the stranger was speaking, Ainiveous could not help but begin to feel impatience though he knew it would not help. His Hanseiyoku* began to pulse weakly as Ainiveous sensed approaching sentient life once more. There was no time.

"Despite your intent, your action may be less helpful than you think." Ainiveous' words flowed with a strange grace, flowing gently like a river yet punctuated with the sharp sounds typical to the Haljan language. Though Ainiveous spoke gently, his speech was still cold and... empty sounding, "I could provide you with directions to the Sovereign Principality of Niskovia's airship were you to stay here and leave me be momentarily."

A dart flies from an unknown direction toward Zahra.** Ainiveous did not seem surprised; he did not seem pleased either.

--OOC--
Heh.
*The Hanseiyoku are the crystal wing-like formations
**Also, about this, in FFRP I can control my characters and what they do, but of course not what happens to your character.
If you allow it to hit Zahra, it's tipped with a special substance which induces sleep for an hour or so. Side effects may include fatigue for a bit afterward or maybe dizziness. It's a relatively safe thing, I imagine, though.

Also, provided a description of the Kardilossas accent. The Orthyknin/Visyknin do not typically speak Haljan among each other.

Welvraen was a most accomplished Karranan tracker and so was able to locate Ainiveous rather quickly. Suspecting that the High Prince was likely injured, he had paused to corral a large dog to sustain the Orthyknin with. Hearing voices ahead Welvraen sped up, hoping he was not too late.

[Elemental]

(OOC *If I got the relationship incorrect, please re-inform me)

OOC: Cousins is correct. Their fathers are brothers.


As the explosion ripped through the room, King Tansan was pushed to the ground by the Jarrlander who had moved to shield him from what would have otherwise been a non-fatal crossbow bolt. He was however, glad that he didn't have to experience the explosion more closely. With the care of a trained physician, the King turned the man over and felt his neck. There was no doubt about it, his spirit had departed. He removed a silver pendant from around his neck and placed it around the neck of the man who had saved his life before being helped up by Queen Valineth.
"You shall be forever honoured as a hero. Rest well warrior."
He winced as he stood. His robes were torn and bloody and the mithril shirt he wore underneath was showing through. Despite it and the Jarrlander's noble sacrifice, he had still sustained a serious injury.
"I believe I can Valineth. Though not very far. You are uninjured?"




OOC: I assume at least one of those men is familiar with Bordeusi.

Sergeant, what the hell's going on here?

The building exploded, sir. The Councillor is presumed dead, but both King Tansan and the Qzare Rongyao are believed to be alive.

All right, men, start searching the rubble. Find any who are alive and dig 'em out.

Actually, captain, I believe there are new orders with which you are not... Familiar with, yes? From the Lady herself. Standing orders are now to capture Li Tailong, for questioning.

...Alright, men. Change of plans. Find the Qzare, then hightail it back to the ship. Find Li Tailong.


In heavily accented, but still fluent, Bordeusi, the Captain responded.
"Delay that, we have more pressing concerns. Or will I have to report that the men of Bordeux refused to aid the King of Ashenia at a critical moment? Search the rubble for survivors and capture the perpetrators of this alive."
He switched back to the common tongue and turned to address the assembled guards.
"I'm assuming authority according to the standing orders of My Sovereign. Men, start moving the survivors. Be as gentle as possible, but do not leave anyone behind no matter how serious their injuries. We cannot risk further collapse. If anyone tries to cause trouble, feel free to knock them out. Someone who doesn't need to be here, go and get physicians, as many as you can."
As he spoke, his men moved into the Council Chamber and started carrying survivors out and laying them gently on the ground at a safe distance.

[Rain Dragon]

Having briefly departed to gather the guards at his airship, Grand Prince Vanya returned with a score of men to a scene of barely controlled chaos. There were people staggering about, clearly wounded and debris littered the area.
During his absence, Vanya had taken the opportunity to change. He now wore a kuyak gown, with mithril-chain coat. In his hand he wielded a glaive and there were likely other concealed weapons about his person - of note an empty sheathe, likely intended for a sword. The Niskans and Karranan accompanying the Grand Prince were similary armed, several with bows in place of polearms.

"Captain Dhauneld, have two of your finest ensure the safety of Valéria and have Welvraen find Ainiveous. Vierrin, you're with me. The rest of you get these wounded to safety! There are Leikjos at the airship," Vanya said, issuing orders to his men, "And do what you can to clear this rubble, there are likely others trapped inside."

Welvraen and the men assigned to Valéria departed to carry out their assigned tasks. The others got to work, Captain Dhauneld issuing more specific orders as needed.

"But sir, where are you going?"

Vanya had been inching his way towards the council hall. "I go to find Branimir, would any of you do less for the son of your brother?" Vanya asked.

The guards gasped, shocked at this confirmation of Branimir's heritage. Though this truth had been suspected for years, most had thought that Vanya would continue to keep his silence.

"No objections? I thought not."

And so Vanya proceeded into the hall, Vierrin following close behind.

He switched back to the common tongue and turned to address the assembled guards.
"I'm assuming authority according to the standing orders of My Sovereign. Men, start moving the survivors. Be as gentle as possible, but do not leave anyone behind no matter how serious their injuries. We cannot risk further collapse. If anyone tries to cause trouble, feel free to knock them out. Someone who doesn't need to be here, go and get physicians, as many as you can."
As he spoke, his men moved into the Council Chamber and started carrying survivors out and laying them gently on the ground at a safe distance.

A small group of Haljan Leikjos* had sprinted toward the building where the council was supposed to have been taking place as soon as the news had reached them. They had not been there long before the Grand Prince arrived, yet already they were scuttling back and forth between the various sentients. The Haljans stood no taller than a tall Niskan except one rather short Haljan standing quietly in a long plain black coat wielding a rather large, ornate scythe. This Haljan's pincers and stinger were significantly bigger than the other Haljans'. Occasionally, one of the larger Haljans would approach the scythe-wielding one momentarily before rushing off again. To the perceptive ones, it soon becomes evident the Haljan Leikjos were ensuring those with the worst wounds were moved as little as possible.

A short time after the Grand Prince arrives, Aipiskaupus Thuidans Kaiser himself speaks briefly with the scythe-wielding Haljan. Though they were not experienced in handling such a situation, Mendev and Elyx the Masked Ones had also come to see if they could assist. They appeared human in most respects and wore black trousers, a shirt and light longcoat with few silver embellishments in the style of the Orthyknin. They wore no boots as their feet were more akin to hooves than feet. Both stood almost twice as tall as the Kaiser yet looked rather frail. Their smooth, bright dreadlocks shimmered in the sunlight as they started to help moving various patients, tools and water.

Rather than assist the other Leikjos, the Kaiser strode toward the building itself, intending to follow the Grand Prince inside.

--OOC--
*My agents are doctors specialising in surgery. The singular form is 'Leikeis' if you want to address or refer to one of them.

A description of the Masked Ones can be found here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?351078-Empire!-The-Lands-of-Telluris-(the-fluff-beyond-the-crunch)&p=17517002&viewfull=1#post17517002) under the People of Neo Scandza.

EDIT - None of the Griuhna Haljans are here, by the way.

[TheDarkDM]

In the midst of the devastation, a pile of charred bodies marked the location of the Tzaltec delegation. The people upon it burnt beyond recognition, it had largely been ignored in the furor, until it began to move. Slowly, like a horror out of nightmare, a lone figure pushed its way out from the sticky womb of ruined flesh. It was Senusret, his clothing scorched and torn, stained head to toe in blood and ink. That alone would have been enough to inspire horror, but far worse was the ease with which the Tzaltec prince held himself, as though unbothered by the surrounding carnage. He took a moment to assess the situation before striding towards where Wayve was clearing rubble.

"Huroshan, hold! That madman may seem trapped, but his ilk rarely back themselves into a corner. He has remained too calm to not have an escape plan, and you and I are some of the only ones fit to stop him. Help me cut off his escape route."

[Kitsanth]

Rather than assist the other Leikjos, the Kaiser strode toward the building itself, intending to follow the Grand Prince inside.

The room was in shambles, scorched debris scattered everywhere.

Vanya entered the council room with Vierrin - barely aware of Aipiskaupus following him - and began searching the room for Branimir, hoping that he had somehow survived.

Finally, after what seemed like hours but was surely only minutes, he spotted a charred Niskan robe, seemingly discarded in a pool of blood with a sword laying nearby. There was no body present.

"Sir, how can this be?" Vierrin enquired, startled by this unexpected sight.

Vanya gathered the scattered effects, sheathing the sword Branimir had wielded, before answering, "Branimir Korošec may have died here this day but it seems his spirit lives on -"

"You don't mean-"

"I do. He was deemed worthy and so has ascended to the life that comes after without the aid of cleansing fire." Vanya stated, concluding with, "there can be no other explanation. His life was not worth mine."

Now that the fate of Branimir had been discovered, the Grand Prince was able to shift his focus to the rest of the room.


EDIT: typo

[Reggiejam]

OOC: Cousins is correct. Their fathers are brothers.

As the explosion ripped through the room, King Tansan was pushed to the ground by the Jarrlander who had moved to shield him from what would have otherwise been a non-fatal crossbow bolt. He was however, glad that he didn't have to experience the explosion more closely. With the care of a trained physician, the King turned the man over and felt his neck. There was no doubt about it, his spirit had departed. He removed a silver pendant from around his neck and placed it around the neck of the man who had saved his life before being helped up by Queen Valineth.
"You shall be forever honoured as a hero. Rest well warrior."
He winced as he stood. His robes were torn and bloody and the mithril shirt he wore underneath was showing through. Despite it and the Jarrlander's noble sacrifice, he had still sustained a serious injury.
"I believe I can Valineth. Though not very far. You are uninjured?"


"Thankfully," she answered, "Come your majesty," she said leading the Ashene King to Griend's massive crystalline form and trying to help him down next to the crystal being.

"Rest here, I shall look for other survivors."

By now the dust had begun to settle, covering everything in a dark grey veneer of caked on destruction. She noted movement and moved that direction but stopped as she saw the Tzaltec delegate rise from a mound of twisted corpses. He seemed unfazed and unhurt and though the sight was something disturbing to see. She saw again the Doge Inigo of Guilder and moved towards his outline.

"Doge, are you hurt?"

[SamBurke]

"Thankfully," she answered, "Come your majesty," she said leading the Ashene King to Griend's massive crystalline form and trying to help him down next to the crystal being.

"Rest here, I shall look for other survivors."

By now the dust had begun to settle, covering everything in a dark grey veneer of caked on destruction. She noted movement and moved that direction but stopped as she saw the Tzaltec delegate rise from a mound of twisted corpses. He seemed unfazed and unhurt and though the sight was something disturbing to see. She saw again the Doge Inigo of Guilder and moved towards his outline.

"Doge, are you hurt?"

Inigo stands up and grins. "Far from it, good sir... I feel more alive than I have in years. They've kept me off the battlefields, you see... but today, I'll taste blood." He tears off his ceremonial robe, baring the bronze-laced mithril of a Prince's war-armor beneath.

The Doge leapt into action, tearing into the rubble, to find just enough space to slip to the outside... Just enough for him to join the fight.

[QuintonBeck]

As the stranger was speaking, Ainiveous could not help but begin to feel impatience though he knew it would not help. His Hanseiyoku* began to pulse weakly as Ainiveous sensed approaching sentient life once more. There was no time.

"Despite your intent, your action may be less helpful than you think." Ainiveous' words flowed with a strange grace, flowing gently like a river yet punctuated with the sharp sounds typical to the Haljan language. Though Ainiveous spoke gently, his speech was still cold and... empty sounding, "I could provide you with directions to the Sovereign Principality of Niskovia's airship were you to stay here and leave me be momentarily."

A dart flies from an unknown direction toward Zahra.** Ainiveous was not surprised; he was not pleased either.

--OOC--
Heh.
*The Hanseiyoku are the crystal wing-like formations
**Also, about this, in FFRP I can control my characters and what they do, but of course not what happens to your character.
If you allow it to hit Zahra, it's tipped with a special substance which induces sleep for an hour or so. Side effects may include fatigue for a bit afterward or maybe dizziness. It's a relatively safe thing, I imagine, though.

Also, provided a description of the Kardilossas accent. The Orthyknin/Visyknin do not typically speak Haljan among each other.

An Airship, what luck! Surely the madman didn't have access to the air.

"As you wi-" before he could finish his sentence he noted a dart a moment too late and it struck his neck.

He clutched at it, eyes rolling upward and falling forward unconscious but still breathing. At the sound of the thud the two guards turned around to see their envoy lying on the ground. They both reached for their swords, looking at the High Prince, but kept a step back, unknowing what had just transpired.

[Rain Dragon]

An Airship, what luck! Surely the madman didn't have access to the air.

"As you wi-" before he could finish his sentence he noted a dart a moment too late and it struck his neck.

He clutched at it, eyes rolling upward and falling forward unconscious but still breathing. At the sound of the thud the two guards turned around to see their envoy lying on the ground. They both reached for their swords, looking at the High Prince, but kept a step back, unknowing what had just transpired.

"Draw those and you may die." Ainiveous' words were sharp and commanding, "Think this a coincidence? You will not follow me. Not with your feet, thoughts or eyes."

Ainiveous almost collapsed as he started to move, but he willed himself forward. I didn't realise... The first step is always the hardest... His mind was barely functional enough to note a familiar type of sentient among the others nearby. Who else could it be?

Just... a... short distance...

[Aedilred]

Valéria had started to help clear the rubble, but her relatively diminutive figure and inexperience with manual labour led her to conclude fairly quickly she was just getting in the way, and the best thing she could do to help was to allow the soldiers to get on with the work without her interference.

The fiery explosion had rendered Siggi's features - what had been left of them - almost unrecognisable, and charred his bright clothes. Had it not been for his prosthetics she might not even have known him. She knew she should mourn, but something prevented her. In truth, she had lost her husband a year ago, when he had been mauled by the monster from Guilder. At first, his survival had been miraculous, but the man who returned to her had been in no way the same: fatalistic, cynical and desperately embittered by his inability to hold his infant children.

"Not one backward step," he had told with a smile in happier days, before he rode off to war, and he had held to that to the end. He had known what was likely to happen when he sent her from the room, and he had accepted that fate without hesitation. However he had chosen to go about it, he had died in defence protect his family and his honour, and she knew nothing would have brought him greater satisfaction in his last moments. But now he was gone, and there was still work to be done.

She saw King Rion being hauled away, shouting, and approached him on the offchance he was lucid. "Lord king, are there any other entrances to this room, or to any of the side chambers? We need to make sure Ridovo does not escape."

[lt_murgen]

John heard the woman's inquiry, and it cut through the haze. He stopped what he was doing and began assessing the doorway and the room itself. He should be able to figure out where its walls were in realtionship to the building, and find any interior walls or exterior windows.

[Morph Bark]

The door stopped most of the blast, the fortified wood cracking but holding out, a little puff of smoke appearing below the door. Ridovo seemed rather unphased by it all.

"Damn it, now I need to enslave a new entourage, that's gonnaat least cost me three days."

Ridovo looked at Rongyao.

"Yes, my new servant, let us begin the ritual. You BOTH shall swear frealty to me. Your friend here is too weak to resist anyway. Even unbound, he will not pose that much of a threat to me. And neither do you."

He unchained Tailong, leaving the bombs around his waist, after which he turned to Rongyao.

"Now....kneel before me."

Rongyao refuses to kneel.

"That... was not the deal."

His face hardens and his eyes darken. His voice drips with vitriol of thickened by hatred.

"Friend? This man has caused endless trouble for me and mine with his weakness, his cowardice, and his arrogance. I will not serve with him, even serving one like you. I want him free so that he might do all he can to defend himself while I tear apart everything he loves bit by bit until, in total despair, he begs for death. You want my service, you will grant that boon. Destroying everything of his and purging it from the world before ending his life is my sole purpose. Killing him now would never satisfy, and serving with one such as that is abhorrent."

Looking to the wall, Rongyao sees a smaller window, just large enough for a man to fit through but a good distance above the ground. Jerking one thumb towards the window, Rongyao continues.

"He will leave through there. The fall will hurt, but he'll live to suffer another day. You want me to kneel, then send this thing away from us."

Tailong stood tall next to Rongyao--not as firm, but still not bending. He gave a hard stare at the man he called brother. What was he planning? The words were overly harsh and would no doubt convince Ridovo that they couldn't stay in the same room, but he sensed a hint of pain behind it, as if there was some truth to it. What had happened in the year since that accursed day when Ridovo found him lying sick? Nevertheless, if the Priory had the same laws about governance, then there was one fact that should not be revealed to Ridovo at all costs.

"In spite of this snake's notions of friendship, I am as ever the Lord Protector of the Imperium. I shall not bend my knee to a man as wicked as you, nor allow a Salterri to come to harm if I can help it. Let this idiot go and accept me as your equal, and the world will shake."

It sounded odd from someone still strapped with explosives, standing unfirm and dressed in rags. In other words, frustratingly much like Tailong.

I dunno if the Priory uses the same laws for governance as the Heartlands, but one of the laws that the Salterri Heartlands have had since years, that allowed Wandao to be freed without a lot of concessions to the northern lands, is that when a Qzare gets captured, he is no longer Qzare. The law was specifically to prevent granting power to captors in a time of war or people taking them hostage as in this situation. It was one thing that was later a decent base among other things to introduce the Silver Mandate that Rizban worked out.

[WaylanderX]

Tailong stood tall next to Rongyao--not as firm, but still not bending. He gave a hard stare at the man he called brother. What was he planning? The words were overly harsh and would no doubt convince Ridovo that they couldn't stay in the same room, but he sensed a hint of pain behind it, as if there was some truth to it. What had happened in the year since that accursed day when Ridovo found him lying sick? Nevertheless, if the Priory had the same laws about governance, then there was one fact that should not be revealed to Ridovo at all costs.

"In spite of this snake's notions of friendship, I am as ever the Lord Protector of the Imperium. I shall not bend my knee to a man as wicked as you, nor allow a Salterri to come to harm if I can help it. Let this idiot go and accept me as your equal, and the world will shake."

It sounded odd from someone still strapped with explosives, standing unfirm and dressed in rags. In other words, frustratingly much like Tailong.

I dunno if the Priory uses the same laws for governance as the Heartlands, but one of the laws that the Salterri Heartlands have had since years, that allowed Wandao to be freed without a lot of concessions to the northern lands, is that when a Qzare gets captured, he is no longer Qzare. The law was specifically to prevent granting power to captors in a time of war or people taking them hostage as in this situation. It was one thing that was later a decent base among other things to introduce the Silver Mandate that Rizban worked out.

"So, one offers to be my servant, one to be my equal. I think my preferred choice is obvious. So I bid thy farewell, Li Tailong, you were delightful to practise my arts on."

Ridovo took off half of Tailong's fire blossoms, just enough to fit him through the window. Hardhandedly, he pushed Tailong face first through the opening.

"Oh my, I almost forgot...."

With one graceful move, the madman took out his dagger and plungled it into Tailong's heart. Putting the weapon away again, he held the mortally wounded man partially out the window. He spoke to Rongyao,

"So, want to do the honours?"

He waited, a wicked glint in his eye.



In the midst of the devastation, a pile of charred bodies marked the location of the Tzaltec delegation. The people upon it burnt beyond recognition, it had largely been ignored in the furor, until it began to move. Slowly, like a horror out of nightmare, a lone figure pushed its way out from the sticky womb of ruined flesh. It was Senusret, his clothing scorched and torn, stained head to toe in blood and ink. That alone would have been enough to inspire horror, but far worse was the ease with which the Tzaltec prince held himself, as though unbothered by the surrounding carnage. He took a moment to assess the situation before striding towards where Wayve was clearing rubble.

"Huroshan, hold! That madman may seem trapped, but his ilk rarely back themselves into a corner. He has remained too calm to not have an escape plan, and you and I are some of the only ones fit to stop him. Help me cut off his escape route."

Wayve looked at the slaver, his soul seething with rage. His thoughtless actions killed dozens and now he had the gal to order HIM around?
His eyes flared with disgust and anger when he responded.

"You are not worthy of my help Tzaltec-jin. By your lack of Prowess we almost died. And on top of that, you dare to DISRESPECT ME?!?! Get out of my way before you cause any more damage."

[Rizban]

Rongyao grabs hold of Tailong by the front of his shirt, tearing him from Ridovo's grip with a snarl at the madman. He brings Tailong's face close and speaks in a soft voice. Though tinged with anger, the tone is mostly one of regret.

"Tailong." a pause "brother. Live, damn you. You forced me to do this, and for this alone I hate you. So, by the goddess, you WILL live, live and do what is right. You die here, and I swear I'll kill you for it myself."

Ripping the orichalcum sword from his side, Rongyao shoves it into Tailong's hands. With his now free hand, he pulls the explosives free and drops Tailong before turning on Ridovo.

"As for you master Ridovo... My oath is to the Imperium, and no one can make me break it!"

With his final words, Rongyao lunges at Ridovo with explosives in one hand and his hidden mithril short sword in the other. A moment later, another explosion rocks the building.

Just before Tailong hits the ground, he realizes he is clutching his father's ancestral sword.

[WaylanderX]

Rongyao grabs hold of Tailong by the front of his shirt, tearing him from Ridovo's grip with a snarl at the madman. He brings Tailong's face close and speaks in a soft voice. Though tinged with anger, the tone is mostly one of regret.

"Tailong." a pause "brother. Live, damn you. You forced me to do this, and for this alone I hate you. So, by the goddess, you WILL live, live and do what is right. You die here, and I swear I'll kill you for it myself."

Ripping the orichalcum sword from his side, Rongyao shoves it into Tailong's hands. With his now free hand, he pulls the explosives free and drops Tailong before turning on Ridovo.

"As for you master Ridovo... My oath is to the Imperium, and no one can make me break it!"

With his final words, Rongyao lunges at Ridovo with explosives in one hand and his hidden mithril short sword in the other. A moment later, another explosion rocks the building.

Just before Tailong hits the ground, he realizes he is clutching his father's ancestral sword.

Around three minutes after the first, another explosion resounds in the air of city, which was peaceful a mere 30 minutes ago. This time, the bang, originating from the room in which Ridovo was seen disappearing into, blew away part of the rubble blocking entry to the room. Inside, Rongyao could be seen, slopped against the wall, his body a wreck, most of his bones broken and skin charred. Amazingly, the ones who step inside see his chest rising weakly, but it is most likely over for him. His lungs and bowels are punctured by a set of daggers. Anyone can see, it will be impossible to save him.

Ridovo's corpse can be seen laying on his belly next to Rongyao, also burned and wrecked. A mithril short sword sticks up from his back, like a victory banner.

However, right before your eyes, Ridovo's flesh starts to liquify into black ichor, seeping away, leaving only a black skeleton in its place. A whisper could be heard resounding through the remains of the palace, faintly but clearly.

"This...is...not...the............end.........."

[Lord_Burch]

Around three minutes after the first, another explosion resounds in the air of city, which was peaceful a mere 30 minutes ago. This time, the bang, originating from the room in which Ridovo was seen disappearing into, blew away part of the rubble blocking entry to the room. Inside, Rongyao could be seen, slopped against the wall, his body a wreck, most of his bones broken and skin charred. Amazingly, the ones who step inside see his chest rising weakly, but it is most likely over for him. His lungs and bowels are punctured by a set of daggers. Anyone can see, it will be impossible to save him.

Ridovo's corpse can be seen laying on his belly next to Rongyao, also burned and wrecked. A mithril short sword sticks up from his back, like a victory banner.

However, right before your eyes, Ridovo's flesh starts to liquify into black ichor, seeping away, leaving only a black skeleton in its place. A whisper could be heard resounding through the remains of the palace, faintly but clearly.

"This...is...not...the............end.........."

A few Bordeusi soldiers are struck glancing blows by flying rubble; their armor absorbs most of the damage, but sure to leave bruises. The captain, along with four other men, move into the side room in a wedge, swords drawn and shields out. The captain, not discerning any other threats, glances at the skeleton before smashing his boot through the skull.

And good riddance, I say. Aamir, attend to Rongyao. Jacques, Sigmond, and Peter, look for Tailong. The rest of you, form a perimeter! No one in or out till he's been secured.

A short, elfin man of Malkavan kneels down next to Rongyao, but after a cursory glance at him looks to his captain.He's dead, sir. Or as good as. Painkillers are the best I can do for him.

[lt_murgen]

John was just rounding the corner, trying to see if he could figure out which window, if any, was attached to the room. He guessed it was one about eight feet above the sloping, manicured grounds. He identified it just in time to see someone fall out of it!

He rushed over just as the explosion blew out part of the wall. He threw himself over the body, trying to shield it from debris. He was too shocked to notice the man had a horrible chest wound as he yelled for help.

[Kitsanth]

"Draw those and you may die." Ainiveous' words were sharp and commanding, "Think this a coincidence? You will not follow me. Not with your feet, thoughts or eyes."

Ainiveous almost collapsed as he started to move, but he willed himself forward. I didn't realise... The first step is always the hardest... His mind was barely functional enough to note a familiar type of sentient among the others nearby. Who else could it be?

Just... a... short distance...

An Airship, what luck! Surely the madman didn't have access to the air.

"As you wi-" before he could finish his sentence he noted a dart a moment too late and it struck his neck.

He clutched at it, eyes rolling upward and falling forward unconscious but still breathing. At the sound of the thud the two guards turned around to see their envoy lying on the ground. They both reached for their swords, looking at the High Prince, but kept a step back, unknowing what had just transpired.

Welvraen arrived, hauling the dog with him, just in time to see the Triumvirate Senator collapse. It was clear to the Karranan that Ainiveous was out of time.

"You two! You must grab the senator and leave this place," Welvraen implored them, speaking in heavily accented trade tongue, "High Prince Ainiveous is Orthyknin, staying here will place us all in danger."

He secured the dog close-by and prepared himself to flee - dragging the senator if he had to - at the first sign of the High Prince stirring.


Around three minutes after the first, another explosion resounds in the air of city, which was peaceful a mere 30 minutes ago. This time, the bang, originating from the room in which Ridovo was seen disappearing into, blew away part of the rubble blocking entry to the room. Inside, Rongyao could be seen, slopped against the wall, his body a wreck, most of his bones broken and skin charred. Amazingly, the ones who step inside see his chest rising weakly, but it is most likely over for him. His lungs and bowels are punctured by a set of daggers. Anyone can see, it will be impossible to save him.

Ridovo's corpse can be seen laying on his belly next to Rongyao, also burned and wrecked. A mithril short sword sticks up from his back, like a victory banner.

However, right before your eyes, Ridovo's flesh starts to liquify into black ichor, seeping away, leaving only a black skeleton in its place. A whisper could be heard resounding through the remains of the palace, faintly but clearly.

"This...is...not...the............end.........."

The blast startled Grand Prince Vanya, luckily Vierrin was able to shield both him and the Kaiser from any flying debris.

"Sirs, we should vacate this building, I doubt it's stability after all these explosions."


John was just rounding the corner, trying to see if he could figure out which window, if any, was attached to the room. He guessed it was one about eight feet above the sloping, manicured grounds. He identified it just in time to see someone fall out of it!

He rushed over just as the explosion blew out part of the wall. He threw himself over the body, trying to shield it from debris. He was too shocked to notice the man had a horrible chest wound as he yelled for help.

Captain Dhauneld was outside, directing his forces in their efforts to assist the Leikjos with the wounded. The Karranan was momentarily stunned by an unexpected explosion, but when his senses recovered he heard a voice crying for help. Motioning for two of his men to follow him, they set off towards this likely injured person.

Luckily it was not far and so they came across the two individuals sooner than expected.

There was blood, lots of blood.

"Bring a Leikeis here, quickly!" Dhauneld ordered, as he stripped his tabard for bandages.

The men with his rushed off to find a Leikeis.

"The wound is not severe," Dhauneld lied, pressing the wad of cloth to the wound, "You are sure to recover from this."



OOC note: as I have been slack and not yet elaborated on the Karranan in my post for region 48, the relevant points are; they're a fae variety, have dark skin, light coloured hair, silver eyes, pointed ears, very pointy teeth and superior visual and auditory acuity to most species - the named characters I have running about at the moment, aside from Vanya, are all Karranan.

[Jeriah]

Rongyao, broken and bleeding, gasps for air to fill his collapsing lungs. He tries to raise his arm, only to to find it ends just past the shoulder. Looking to his other side, he grins when he sees the other hand still attached. In one last gasp of defiance, he raises his remaining fist and shouts with the small amount of force that he can still muster.

"Vic...Victory!" *gasp* "For the Imp..perium...!"

The Qzare's fist drops, his body gives one final, violent shudder, and Zuida Rongyao is no more.

Riz texted this to me to post. He's back in the no internet zone and probably will be until sometime tomorrow evening.

[Elemental]

"Thankfully," she answered, "Come your majesty," she said leading the Ashene King to Griend's massive crystalline form and trying to help him down next to the crystal being.

"Rest here, I shall look for other survivors."

"Thank you Valineth..."
He drifted into unconsciousness only to be jolted awake by another explosion. One of his guards was bandaging his arm having pulled the ceramic shard out. He bowed his head momentarily but did not stop.
"Sovereign. The fact that you still live is a miracle."
"There was another explosion. What of the other survivors?"
"They are being tended to Sovereign."
The captain came up to them and spoke in a whisper to the King.
"I fear the men of Bordeux have an ulterior motive Sovereign. They have orders to capture Qzare Tailong."
"Then there's no time to waste. I wish to confront Ridovo before I die anyway."
With the help of his guards, he stood and moved towards the room where the Zuida Rongyao and Li Tailong had been taken. With some difficulty he went through the gap in the rubble. Even though he was covered in dust and his robes were stained with blood, he should hopefully be recognisable as the King of Ashenia. Despite his injuries he spoke firmly and authoritatively.
"Greetings men of Bordeux, long allied to the Crown of Ashenia. Have you managed to capture the murderous lunatic?"

[QuintonBeck]

RD and Kitsanth

The two guards lowered their weapons at the orders of the Orthyknin and turned suddenly at the arrival of the Niskans, once again brandishing them fearing Ridovo's Dancers had found them but quickly lowering them as the truth became apparent. Far out of their element as Senatorial guardsmen the two moved quickly to follow orders grabbing the unconscious Zahra hauling him away from the strange being the Niskan had called High Prince.

[Lord_Burch]

Rongyao, broken and bleeding, gasps for air to fill his collapsing lungs. He tries to raise his arm, only to to find it ends just past the shoulder. Looking to his other side, he grins when he sees the other hand still attached. In one last gasp of defiance, he raises his remaining fist and shouts with the small amount of force that he can still muster.

"Vic...Victory!" *gasp* "For the Imp..perium...!"

The Qzare's fist drops, his body gives one final, violent shudder, and Zuida Rongyao is no more.

Riz texted this to me to post. He's back in the no internet zone and probably will be until sometime tomorrow evening.

He's dead, sir. Your orders?

Frederick, Strom. Two large, heavily muscled soldier step out of the line. Take him back to his ship. And tell our sailors to prepare to give way. We have urgent news for the Lady.


"Thank you Valineth..."
He drifted into unconsciousness only to be jolted awake by another explosion. One of his guards was bandaging his arm having pulled the ceramic shard out. He bowed his head momentarily but did not stop.
"Sovereign. The fact that you still live is a miracle."
"There was another explosion. What of the other survivors?"
"They are being tended to Sovereign."
The captain came up to them and spoke in a whisper to the King.
"I fear the men of Bordeux have an ulterior motive Sovereign. They have orders to capture Qzare Tailong."
"Then there's no time to waste. I wish to confront Ridovo before I die anyway."
With the help of his guards, he stood and moved towards the room where the Zuida Rongyao and Li Tailong had been taken. With some difficulty he went through the gap in the rubble. Even though he was covered in dust and his robes were stained with blood, he should hopefully be recognisable as the King of Ashenia. Despite his injuries he spoke firmly and authoritatively.
"Greetings men of Bordeux, long allied to the Crown of Ashenia. Have you managed to capture the murderous lunatic?"

Standing to attention, No, King. However- he points to the black skeleton with a caved in skull, -that appears to be what is left of him. I cannot say, exactly, what happened to his skin. Though, I did hear a whisper on the wind- perhaps, though, I was just befuddled from the explosions.


John was just rounding the corner, trying to see if he could figure out which window, if any, was attached to the room. He guessed it was one about eight feet above the sloping, manicured grounds. He identified it just in time to see someone fall out of it!

He rushed over just as the explosion blew out part of the wall. He threw himself over the body, trying to shield it from debris. He was too shocked to notice the man had a horrible chest wound as he yelled for help.

One of the men searching the room, Jacques, leans out of the building.

Hey, Aamir, there's an injured down there. Probably needs your help- looks like he fell and hit something nasty.

Nodding, Aamir slips away to find a way outside and around the building. Unnoticed, the man with a black insignia follows him at a distance.

You, Islander- I need to see the body to help, if you'll let me, yes?

[Rain Dragon]

Welvraen arrived, hauling the dog with him, just in time to see the Triumvirate Senator collapse. It was clear to the Karranan that Ainiveous was out of time.

"You two! You must grab the senator and leave this place," Welvraen implored them, speaking in heavily accented trade tongue, "High Prince Ainiveous is Orthyknin, staying here will place us all in danger."

He secured the dog close-by and prepared himself to flee - dragging the senator if he had to - at the first sign of the High Prince stirring.


RD and Kitsanth

The two guards lowered their weapons at the orders of the Orthyknin and turned suddenly at the arrival of the Niskans, once again brandishing them fearing Ridovo's Dancers had found them but quickly lowering them as the truth became apparent. Far out of their element as Senatorial guardsmen the two moved quickly to follow orders grabbing the unconscious Zahra hauling him away from the strange being the Niskan had called High Prince.

Welvraen's melodramatics were amusing, but strangely helpful as it seemed to have kicked the guards into gear. It would seem the Dolofontar had simply issued a warning with the understanding that these humans (misguided though they may have been) were intending to assist the High Prince; though usually drawn weapons would result in death regardless of context. Ainiveous only hoped there was nothing strong enough in the dog to imprint on his soul.

Though he could not be sure if the others were out of sight, Ainiveous knew that waiting any longer could be the death of him. His Hanseiyoku glowed steadily brighter as he stood before the beast. One hand outstretched, he watched the hound's eyes grow calm and peaceful. She even took a step toward him as Ainiveous reached with his mind for her soul. For any who could see, it would look as though both dog and the Prince were simply standing still for a few moments. Suddenly a bright flash of red came, accompanied by a strange sort of blast. The dog floated a short distance from the ground, bright tendrils of red light flowing from the dog to Ainiveous. The blast, though not physical, nonetheless hit the mind with a large number of emotions and experiences. Most were the dog's, but some were Ainiveous' from a time when he travelled beneath the stars as a child with his parents on a mad search for 'Sanctuary'.

I have less control than I thought...

Finally strong enough, he managed to pull the energies back under control. After only a short time, it was over. There was only Ainiveous and a dead dog. The dog lay with its head atop crossed paws peacefully as though asleep as long as one ignored the stillness and strangely sunken skin.

Ainiveous' Hanseiyoku glowed dimly, but a steady healthy red as he walked toward the place where he sensed Welvraen. Unfortunately it was still day, so he walked slowly and carefully as he was still blindfolded.

Thank Nykta Welvraen chose such a vital being. I wish the hound well in the next life.


The blast startled Grand Prince Vanya, luckily Vierrin was able to shield both him and the Kaiser from any flying debris.

"Sirs, we should vacate this building, I doubt it's stability after all these explosions."

Aipiskaupus seemed distracted by something momentarily.

"Yes, the founda... Nevermind. After you, Vany."
I do not think the skeleton is that of a dead sentient, considering what happened...

Aipiskaupus walked purposefully out of the building.

[Kitsanth]

RD and Kitsanth

The two guards lowered their weapons at the orders of the Orthyknin and turned suddenly at the arrival of the Niskans, once again brandishing them fearing Ridovo's Dancers had found them but quickly lowering them as the truth became apparent. Far out of their element as Senatorial guardsmen the two moved quickly to follow orders grabbing the unconscious Zahra hauling him away from the strange being the Niskan had called High Prince.

Welvraen's melodramatics were amusing, but strangely helpful as it seemed to have kicked the guards into gear. It would seem the Dolofontar had simply issued a warning with the understanding that these humans (misguided though they may have been) were intending to assist the High Prince; though usually drawn weapons would result in death regardless of context. Ainiveous only hoped there was nothing strong enough in the dog to imprint on his soul.

Though he could not be sure if the others were out of sight, Ainiveous knew that waiting any longer could be the death of him. His Hanseiyoku glowed steadily brighter as he stood before the beast. One hand outstretched, he watched the hound's eyes grow calm and peaceful. She even took a step toward him as Ainiveous reached with his mind for her soul. For any who could see, it would look as though both dog and the Prince were simply standing still for a few moments. Suddenly a bright flash of red came, accompanied by a strange sort of blast. The dog floated a short distance from the ground, bright tendrils of red light flowing from the dog to Ainiveous. The blast, though not physical, nonetheless hit the mind with a large number of emotions and experiences. Most were the dog's, but some were Ainiveous' from a time when he travelled beneath the stars as a child with his parents on a mad search for 'Sanctuary'.

I have less control than I thought...

Finally strong enough, he managed to pull the energies back under control. After only a short time, it was over. There was only Ainiveous and a dead dog. The dog lay with its head atop crossed paws peacefully as though asleep as long as one ignored the stillness and strangely sunken skin.

Ainiveous' Hanseiyoku glowed dimly, but a steady healthy red as he walked toward the place where he sensed Welvraen. Unfortunately it was still day, so he walked slowly and carefully as he was still blindfolded.

Thank Nykta Welvraen chose such a vital being. I wish the hound well in the next life.

"That was High Prince Ainiveous Elysius of the Orthyknin, Orthyknin are a strange and private people. He would not have wanted us present as he regained his strength. Come, I shall escort you and the senator to your transportation if you need. Ainiveous will catch up once he is able."


Aipiskaupus seemed distracted by something momentarily.

"Yes, the founda... Nevermind. After you, Vany."
I do not think the skeleton is that of a dead sentient, considering what happened...

Aipiskaupus walked purposefully out of the building.

Vanya gave orders to Vierrin, "Have the others begin assisting with the clearing of injured from this hall... and tell them that Branimir Korošec has passed from this life. A memorial will be held at Raykhenbakh once we return to Niskovia."

His duty here done, Vanya followed Aipiskaupus from the building.

"Too many have died here this day Thui, and for what? to satisfy the whims of a madman? or some darker power perhaps? It has been merely fifty years since we lead our people into this wider world..." Vanya sighed in despair, "when I hear of these events, when I see these things happen... sometimes I'm not sure all this is worth it."


A Niskan guard ran up, "Grand Prince, Kaiser, sirs, there is a man! Severely wounded, I think he may be Salterri sirs..."

"There was no sign of Li in that room! Take us to this man, hurry, he may not have much time."

The guard sped off, Vanya and Aipiskaupus following close behind.

[lt_murgen]

You, Islander- I need to see the body to help, if you'll let me, yes?[/COLOR]

John moved as fast as he could. The debris broke one arm and likely gave his brain a good sloshing. As he moved, he finally took a look at the man.

"He fell out the window. I tried to protect him when the bl.... Sea and Stones! He's been stabbed in the chest!"


*****events elsewhere, about this time********
DISASTER A massive earthquake hits Tar. Significant death and destruction occur throughout the land. The quake seemed to be centered on the sacred grove. The course of several rivers are shifted by the shocl. A tsunami swamps several outlying islands in the Jeweled Cities.
13,000 dead in Tar ("http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17980314&postcount=880”)

The rumor is that leader of the Children of Kina suffered a massive seizure at the same time, babbling about "year of the skulls" and "SHE is coming"

[Morph Bark]

"So, one offers to be my servant, one to be my equal. I think my preferred choice is obvious. So I bid thy farewell, Li Tailong, you were delightful to practise my arts on."

Ridovo took off half of Tailong's fire blossoms, just enough to fit him through the window. Hardhandedly, he pushed Tailong face first through the opening.

"Oh my, I almost forgot...."

With one graceful move, the madman took out his dagger and plungled it into Tailong's heart. Putting the weapon away again, he held the mortally wounded man partially out the window. He spoke to Rongyao,

"So, want to do the honours?"

He waited, a wicked glint in his eye.

Rongyao grabs hold of Tailong by the front of his shirt, tearing him from Ridovo's grip with a snarl at the madman. He brings Tailong's face close and speaks in a soft voice. Though tinged with anger, the tone is mostly one of regret.

"Tailong." a pause "brother. Live, damn you. You forced me to do this, and for this alone I hate you. So, by the goddess, you WILL live, live and do what is right. You die here, and I swear I'll kill you for it myself."

Ripping the orichalcum sword from his side, Rongyao shoves it into Tailong's hands. With his now free hand, he pulls the explosives free and drops Tailong before turning on Ridovo.

Just before Tailong hits the ground, he realizes he is clutching his father's ancestral sword.

John was just rounding the corner, trying to see if he could figure out which window, if any, was attached to the room. He guessed it was one about eight feet above the sloping, manicured grounds. He identified it just in time to see someone fall out of it!

He rushed over just as the explosion blew out part of the wall. He threw himself over the body, trying to shield it from debris. He was too shocked to notice the man had a horrible chest wound as he yelled for help.

Captain Dhauneld was outside, directing his forces in their efforts to assist the Leikjos with the wounded. The Karranan was momentarily stunned by an unexpected explosion, but when his senses recovered he heard a voice crying for help. Motioning for two of his men to follow him, they set off towards this likely injured person.

Luckily it was not far and so they came across the two individuals sooner than expected.

There was blood, lots of blood.

"Bring a Leikeis here, quickly!" Dhauneld ordered, as he stripped his tabard for bandages.

The men with his rushed off to find a Leikeis.

"The wound is not severe," Dhauneld lied, pressing the wad of cloth to the wound, "You are sure to recover from this."


OOC note: as I have been slack and not yet elaborated on the Karranan in my post for region 48, the relevant points are; they're a fae variety, have dark skin, light coloured hair, silver eyes, pointed ears, very pointy teeth and superior visual and auditory acuity to most species - the named characters I have running about at the moment, aside from Vanya, are all Karranan.

One of the men searching the room, Jacques, leans out of the building.

Hey, Aamir, there's an injured down there. Probably needs your help- looks like he fell and hit something nasty.

Nodding, Aamir slips away to find a way outside and around the building. Unnoticed, the man with a black insignia follows him at a distance.

You, Islander- I need to see the body to help, if you'll let me, yes?

John moved as fast as he could. The debris broke one arm and likely gave his brain a good sloshing. As he moved, he finally took a look at the man.

"He fell out the window. I tried to protect him when the bl.... Sea and Stones! He's been stabbed in the chest!"

"Indeed, farewell, not goodbye to you," Tailong replied with a stare at Ridovo. As the man removed the fire-blossoms, he looked at Rongyao meaningfully. When the madman pushed him through the window, he couldn't resist with his weakened body, and stared straight at the ground several tai below him as he dangled upside-down, practically by his legs. He then felt himself being dragged back in, the fire-blossoms lightly clanking against one another around his waist. "What is thA--!"

His breath came to an abrupt halt in his throat as the dagger plunged into his chest. His eyes went wide. The blade withdrew and blood spilled from the wound, coating his chest and painting the rags he wore, the floor and the fire-blossoms red. One hand moves over his chest to cover the wound, the other grasping at Ridovo, and then Rongyao when he moves over and grabs him close. The words he speaks come in through a haze of pain, but one word stood out, as if the softer they were spoken, the harder they came.

The half-realized thought of what Rongyao was going to do no longer seemed important. He grit his teeth through the pain as he fell out the window, finding his grasping hand filled with the familiar weight of a sword, one that shone of orichalcum. He barely realized that the Priory did not possess the forges for orichalcum, which could only mean one thing...

He came down hard on his shoulder and rolled away, his voice escaping without words and too little sound to mean anything as the thunder of explosions burst loose inside. He gasped weakly as a man threw his body over him and rubble rained down on them. Tailong's hand pawed at the fool on top of him, getting blood on him. He couldn't recognize his face. He had never seen someone with a face that looked like a watercolour painting made by a drunk, and then he realized his vision was going out, and so was he.

The last thing he heard was something about his wound not being severe.

Heh.

Optimists.

[Lord_Burch]

"Indeed, farewell, not goodbye to you," Tailong replied with a stare at Ridovo. As the man removed the fire-blossoms, he looked at Rongyao meaningfully. When the madman pushed him through the window, he couldn't resist with his weakened body, and stared straight at the ground several tai below him as he dangled upside-down, practically by his legs. He then felt himself being dragged back in, the fire-blossoms lightly clanking against one another around his waist. "What is thA--!"

His breath came to an abrupt halt in his throat as the dagger plunged into his chest. His eyes went wide. The blade withdrew and blood spilled from the wound, coating his chest and painting the rags he wore, the floor and the fire-blossoms red. One hand moves over his chest to cover the wound, the other grasping at Ridovo, and then Rongyao when he moves over and grabs him close. The words he speaks come in through a haze of pain, but one word stood out, as if the softer they were spoken, the harder they came.

The half-realized thought of what Rongyao was going to do no longer seemed important. He grit his teeth through the pain as he fell out the window, finding his grasping hand filled with the familiar weight of a sword, one that shone of orichalcum. He barely realized that the Priory did not possess the forges for orichalcum, which could only mean one thing...

He came down hard on his shoulder and rolled away, his voice escaping without words and too little sound to mean anything as the thunder of explosions burst loose inside. He gasped weakly as a man threw his body over him and rubble rained down on them. Tailong's hand pawed at the fool on top of him, getting blood on him. He couldn't recognize his face. He had never seen someone with a face that looked like a watercolour painting made by a drunk, and then he realized his vision was going out, and so was he.

The last thing he heard was something about his wound not being severe.

Heh.

Optimists.

Aw, hell. Whirling to face John, You, go find the Nis- , his words cut off by a gasp. As he falls forwards, there is a short, heavy bladed knife stuck in between his shoulder blades.

No., says a short man in a black mask and hood, stooping to retrieve his knife. And you won't, either. He hurls it at John, though he misses by inches, the knife disappearing into the grass somewhere behind him. He looks towards him, frowning. And that was my favorite knife, too. A shame. Still, you are of little threat.

Kneeling by Tailong, You, on the other hand, represent opportunity. And revenge, as well. We cannot forget that, no? That is what has driven me, through these long, cold years. You killed her. YOU KILLED MY WIFE!, slamming a second knife down next to Tailong's head. In the next instant, his voice is icy calm once more. She served, in Cassia. I was too afraid to go. Perhaps, then, I could've died with her. But I was denied the death I sought. Instead, my master gave me new life, a hope of life, a hope of, one day, killing you. Gaining my sweet, revenge.

[Kitsanth]

Aw, hell. Whirling to face John, You, go find the Nis- , his words cut off by a gasp. As he falls forwards, there is a short, heavy bladed knife stuck in between his shoulder blades.

No., says a short man in a black mask and hood, stooping to retrieve his knife. And you won't, either. He hurls it at John, though he misses by inches, the knife disappearing into the grass somewhere behind him. He looks towards him, frowning. And that was my favorite knife, too. A shame. Still, you are of little threat.

Kneeling by Tailong, You, on the other hand, represent opportunity. And revenge, as well. We cannot forget that, no? That is what has driven me, through these long, cold years. You killed her. YOU KILLED MY WIFE!, slamming a second knife down next to Tailong's head. In the next instant, his voice is icy calm once more. She served, in Cassia. I was too afraid to go. Perhaps, then, I could've died with her. But I was denied the death I sought. Instead, my master gave me new life, a hope of life, a hope of, one day, killing you. Gaining my sweet, revenge.

Hearing a scuffle up ahead the guard leading Vanya and Aipiskaupus increases his pace even further.

What he sees before him leaves him momentarily speechless. "Sirs-"

Luckily, Vanya is just moments behind and doesn't hesitate to take action. He rushes forward, glaive in hand, attempting to drive this nefarious individual away from the injured man.

"Aipiskaupus! Do what you can for that Salterri."


OOC: roll: 11 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17983462#post17983462)

[Lord_Burch]

Hearing a scuffle up ahead the guard leading Vanya and Aipiskaupus increases his pace even further.

What he sees before him leaves him momentarily speechless. "Sirs-"

Luckily, Vanya is just moments behind and doesn't hesitate to take action. He rushes forward, glaive in hand, attempting to drive this nefarious individual away from the injured man.

"Aipiskaupus! Do what you can for that Salterri."


OOC: roll: 11 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17983462#post17983462)

I got a 13 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17983482&postcount=892), but to keep it interesting (and to not compromise either of the conflicting potential plot lines I've got going on) I'll say he's got a penalty for being kneeling on the ground.

Rising into a crouch, he pulls a mithril short sword from his cloak, barely blocking Vany's assault. He wavers for a moment, then gains solid footing and pushes back, hard, against his opponent's blade.

No! he growls, You will not take this away from me! The masked man moves forward, rising as he does so, a glimmering sword in one hand, and a black, ritual dagger in the other. He stabs towards Vany with the sword, while sweeping the dagger in a high arc towards his face.

(Roll:5 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17983769&postcount=893).)

[Kitsanth]

I got a 13 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17983482&postcount=892), but to keep it interesting (and to not compromise either of the conflicting potential plot lines I've got going on) I'll say he's got a penalty for being kneeling on the ground.

Rising into a crouch, he pulls a mithril short sword from his cloak, barely blocking Vany's assault. He wavers for a moment, then gains solid footing and pushes back, hard, against his opponent's blade.

No! he growls, You will not take this away from me! The masked man moves forward, rising as he does so, a glimmering sword in one hand, and a black, ritual dagger in the other. He stabs towards Vany with the sword, while sweeping the dagger in a high arc towards his face.

(Roll:5 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17983769&postcount=893).)

Vanya, used to sparring against opponents favouring concealed weapons, was able to block the attack, wincing as the sword sliced into the haft of his glaive.

Swiftly, Vanya - seeking to distract this man further from his vengeance - pressed to gain the advantage, dropping his now damaged weapon and pulling a sword, slicing at the masked man's own sword-arm.


OOC: roll: 5 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17983811#post17983811), 12 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17983854#post17983854) - if bombs explode, they explode, luckily Vanya is armoured.

[lt_murgen]

No! he growls, You will not take this away from me! The masked man moves forward, rising as he does so, a glimmering sword in one hand, and a black, ritual dagger in the other. He stabs towards Vany with the sword, while sweeping the dagger in a high arc towards his face.


A wieghted piece of black silk whipped out from behind him, attempting to wrap around the wrist holding the dagger. The assassin flet it tug his forearm. "No, I will." John said.

John was often disregarded as a libertine and a hedonist. But Junior Black was his mentor, and you didn't survive on the council without a trick or two. In this case, it was how to use a ruemel. And he still had the one he took from Opus.

Disrgarded as Vanya and the assassin fougt, and with a broken arm, he still attempted to entangle the assassin's off hand, to give Vanya even a temporary advantage.

[ooc: average roll of 10 ('http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17984712&postcount=897"), but it might be enough to give Vanya an advantage. All he is trying to do is disarm the man]

[Lord_Burch]

Vanya, used to sparring against opponents favouring concealed weapons, was able to block the attack, wincing as the sword sliced into the haft of his glaive.

Swiftly, Vanya - seeking to distract this man further from his vengeance - pressed to gain the advantage, dropping his now damaged weapon and pulling a sword, slicing at the masked man's own sword-arm.


OOC: roll: 5 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17983811#post17983811), 12 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?331102-EMPIRE!-The-Community-Dice-Rolling-Thread&p=17983854#post17983854) - if bombs explode, they explode, luckily Vanya is armoured.


A wieghted piece of black silk whipped out from behind him, attempting to wrap around the wrist holding the dagger. The assassin flet it tug his forearm. "No, I will." John said.

John was often disregarded as a libertine and a hedonist. But Junior Black was his mentor, and you didn't survive on the council without a trick or two. In this case, it was how to use a ruemel. And he still had the one he took from Opus.

Disrgarded as Vanya and the assassin fougt, and with a broken arm, he still attempted to entangle the assassin's off hand, to give Vanya even a temporary advantage.

[ooc: average roll of 10 ('http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17984712&postcount=897"), but it might be enough to give Vanya an advantage. All he is trying to do is disarm the man]

As his dagger comes around in an arc, he is suddenly jerked to one side by John. He keeps his hold on the dagger, but just barely. Off balance, he is unable to block Vany's sword stroke, though he does manage to twist his body enough to prevent him from scoring more than a shallow wound on his upper arm.

Dropping his sword, he pulls out a pottery ball, similar to the ones Giroux had. He smashes it against Vany's chest, sending them both flying backwards, as well as propelling shards of pottery into the masked man's chest.

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17984897&postcount=899

I'm trying to wrap this up, since I'm going to be gone starting late tonight.

[Kitsanth]

A wieghted piece of black silk whipped out from behind him, attempting to wrap around the wrist holding the dagger. The assassin flet it tug his forearm. "No, I will." John said.

John was often disregarded as a libertine and a hedonist. But Junior Black was his mentor, and you didn't survive on the council without a trick or two. In this case, it was how to use a ruemel. And he still had the one he took from Opus.

Disrgarded as Vanya and the assassin fougt, and with a broken arm, he still attempted to entangle the assassin's off hand, to give Vanya even a temporary advantage.

[ooc: average roll of 10 ('http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17984712&postcount=897"), but it might be enough to give Vanya an advantage. All he is trying to do is disarm the man]

As his dagger comes around in an arc, he is suddenly jerked to one side by John. He keeps his hold on the dagger, but just barely. Off balance, he is unable to block Vany's sword stroke, though he does manage to twist his body enough to prevent him from scoring more than a shallow wound on his upper arm.

Dropping his sword, he pulls out a pottery ball, similar to the ones Giroux had. He smashes it against Vany's chest, sending them both flying backwards, as well as propelling shards of pottery into the masked man's chest.

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17984897&postcount=899

I'm trying to wrap this up, since I'm going to be gone starting late tonight.


Vanya has only moments to be grateful for the unexpected assist, and then an explosion goes off. The explosion momentarily stuns Vanya - though with all the other unexpected explosions over the course of this day he is now somewhat used to their effects - and he regains his feet, looking about for the masked man.

Spotting him and noting that he seems injured and apparently unarmed, Vanya levels his sword at the man.

"I cannot continue an attack against one who appears to be unarmed," announced Vanya. "Why did you attack that man? He is laying there near death! Explain yourself."

[Rain Dragon]

Hearing a scuffle up ahead the guard leading Vanya and Aipiskaupus increases his pace even further.

What he sees before him leaves him momentarily speechless. "Sirs-"

Luckily, Vanya is just moments behind and doesn't hesitate to take action. He rushes forward, glaive in hand, attempting to drive this nefarious individual away from the injured man.

"Aipiskaupus! Do what you can for that Salterri."

Aipiskaupus thwacks Vany lightly over the back with his tail as he passes, "Order me not." he says promptly in Haljan.


"Indeed, farewell, not goodbye to you," Tailong replied with a stare at Ridovo. As the man removed the fire-blossoms, he looked at Rongyao meaningfully. When the madman pushed him through the window, he couldn't resist with his weakened body, and stared straight at the ground several tai below him as he dangled upside-down, practically by his legs. He then felt himself being dragged back in, the fire-blossoms lightly clanking against one another around his waist. "What is thA--!"

His breath came to an abrupt halt in his throat as the dagger plunged into his chest. His eyes went wide. The blade withdrew and blood spilled from the wound, coating his chest and painting the rags he wore, the floor and the fire-blossoms red. One hand moves over his chest to cover the wound, the other grasping at Ridovo, and then Rongyao when he moves over and grabs him close. The words he speaks come in through a haze of pain, but one word stood out, as if the softer they were spoken, the harder they came.

The half-realized thought of what Rongyao was going to do no longer seemed important. He grit his teeth through the pain as he fell out the window, finding his grasping hand filled with the familiar weight of a sword, one that shone of orichalcum. He barely realized that the Priory did not possess the forges for orichalcum, which could only mean one thing...

He came down hard on his shoulder and rolled away, his voice escaping without words and too little sound to mean anything as the thunder of explosions burst loose inside. He gasped weakly as a man threw his body over him and rubble rained down on them. Tailong's hand pawed at the fool on top of him, getting blood on him. He couldn't recognize his face. He had never seen someone with a face that looked like a watercolour painting made by a drunk, and then he realized his vision was going out, and so was he.

The last thing he heard was something about his wound not being severe.

Heh.

Optimists.

Aipiskaupus Thuidans Talzjands Leikeis Kaiser stood above the human with the bloody chest.

"I dear hope Salterri expectations are none to high and the blade did not strike true, for even I cannot always mend a broken heart." Aipiskaupus speaks in rather broken trade tongue though the human did not seem conscious. Sometimes even an unconscious being was able to respond to the sound of another's voice. Pressing a pair of fingers to the human's neck, Aipiskaupus felt only the faintest hint of a pulse. Swiftly, he stripped the human of what little cloth was clinging to the torso and carefully removed the remainder of the fire-blossoms. The Kaiser did not intend to let those out of sight anytime soon.

"You'd be in better shape after fighting a skimbiari, but you may yet live if you cling to a life you feel incomplete." his voice was smooth and calm as he selected some ground minerals and crystal dust from the pouch at his belt and scattered them onto his wound. Aipiskaupus doubted it would work, but he'd rather have tried and face the consequences than to have allowed a sentient to slip away in such a manner.

"Many beings care a great deal about you, you know. Whatever happens, I hope you remember this." Aipiskaupus nonetheless doubted the human was in a state where there was anything but darkness. No shaman himself, Aipiskaupus' antennae quivered in concentration as he closed his eyes and focussed. He was doubtful he could call upon the forces of Virux to cauterize the wound, but he'd rather not speak with his cousin again on the matter having not tried.

Looking down after a short, he did not see anything having happened. Not wanting to waste any time, he removed his summer cloak and shirt as they were the cleanest cloth he had on hand. Pressing the shirt against the human's chest and securing it with his cloak, Aipiskaupus tried to catch the attention of Vany.


Vanya has only moments to be grateful for the unexpected assist, and then an explosion goes off. The explosion momentarily stuns Vanya - though with all the other unexpected explosions over the course of this day he is now somewhat used to their effects - and he regains his feet, looking about for the masked man.

Spotting him and noting that he seems injured and apparently unarmed, Vanya levels his sword at the man.

"I cannot continue an attack against one who appears to be unarmed," announced Vanya. "Why did you attack that man? He is laying there near death! Explain yourself."

Aipiskaupus lowered the end of one antenna at the Grand Prince Vanya. An explosion that close to one's chest no matter how small it may be is not healthy.

EDIT - Missed a phrase
SECOND EDIT - For some reason, didn't realise the state the assailant was in. >.>
EDIT - Fireblooms > Fire-blossoms

[Lord_Burch]

Vanya has only moments to be grateful for the unexpected assist, and then an explosion goes off. The explosion momentarily stuns Vanya - though with all the other unexpected explosions over the course of this day he is now somewhat used to their effects - and he regains his feet, looking about for the masked man.

Spotting him and noting that he seems injured and apparently unarmed, Vanya levels his sword at the man.

"I cannot continue an attack against one who appears to be unarmed," announced Vanya. "Why did you attack that man? He is laying there near death! Explain yourself."

Giving a wracking, bloody, cough, the man grins weakly. Because... He needed to die... A spawn of half-breeds, creature not fit to walk this earth... Impure. His voice, weak and ragged before, suddenly gains a burst of strength. And I will not let your pet monster touch me! With that, he plunges his knife into his own heart, killing himself instantly.

The mans chest is a wreck- the detonation so close, combined with the hard shards, shredded it. His mask is blank and featureless, though he has holes for eyes. Upon removal of it, however, you find these holes were not necessary; his eyes had been replaced by two shards of onyx stone. The knife embedded in his chest has a black, wavy blade and ragged wings for a cross hilt. Partially obscured by his body, a golden wing sown into the cloak is visible, with words sewn beneath it; the words themselves, while legible, are of an undetermined language.

[Rain Dragon]

"Pet monster." Aipiskaupus' tail swished back and forth slightly as he watched over the Salterri human and fire-blossoms.

[Kitsanth]

Vanya checked to be sure the man was dead, then removed the mask and was shocked by what he saw. 'How could this man have seen?' thought Vanya to himself.

"How many madmen can there be running around this place?" Vanya wondered aloud, perplexed by the assailant's last words.

Realising that Aipiskaupus had been attempting to catch his attention, Vanya walked over to where he tended the unconscious man. "All that fuss over this one man? Though he certainly looks like the one everyone was proclaiming to be Li Tailong. He must be someone important to have so many persons attempting to kill him. I suppose he still lives for now then?" Vanya asked.

[Rain Dragon]

"For now. He could die in the next minute or he could die in the next century. I don't know; it's up to him. He needs to be moved gently to somewhere clean where he can rest and a Leikeis can stitch the wound closed with clean tools in a clean place." Aipiskaupus closed his eyes momentarily. "I'm tired."

Aipiskaupus goes to leave.

EDIT - Derp

[Kitsanth]

"I appreciate your efforts here Thui... and I apologise for the hasty words I spoke earlier. I would never intentionally imply that you or your people serve me and mine." Vanya says quietly to Aipiskaupus.


Captain Dhauneld arrives as Grand Prince Vanya is speaking with the Kaiser.

Noticing the Karranan, Vanya begins issuing orders, "Captain Dhauneld, have this man moved somewhere more comfortable, and see if you can track down someone who can make a positive identification. Also, see if you can find anyone who recognises his assailant. I doubt anything will come of it, he seems to have been working alone."

"I will be at the airship, should anyone need me." Vanya adds, almost as an afterthought.

With that, Vanya retires to the airship.

[lt_murgen]

John LaFitte, alone and ignored for the moment, decides that discretion is the better part of valor.

He gathers up the assassin, knife and all. Such a thing is worthy of study.

He saw the small bundle of explosives. These also were worthy of study.

[Rain Dragon]

"I appreciate your efforts here Thui... and I apologise for the hasty words I spoke earlier. I would never intentionally imply that you or your people serve me and mine." Vanya says quietly to Aipiskaupus.


Captain Dhauneld arrives as Grand Prince Vanya is speaking with the Kaiser.

Noticing the Karranan, Vanya begins issuing orders, "Captain Dhauneld, have this man moved somewhere more comfortable, and see if you can track down someone who can make a positive identification. Also, see if you can find anyone who recognises his assailant. I doubt anything will come of it, he seems to have been working alone."

"I will be at the airship, should anyone need me." Vanya adds, almost as an afterthought.

With that, Vanya retires to the airship.

"I should realise this, though what with the Council occuring during the day, the Salterri Debate and various statements made by others here has me a little more on edge than I should. Then the Council gets blown up..."

Aipiskaupus looks at Tailong as Vanya was issuing orders. It didn't look as though he was alive; perhaps he was not. Were the moon and stars out, Aipiskaupus would look to them and ask Stellyx to guide Tailong but instead the sky was filled with a brightness that made his eyes ache. Truly, he was tired.


John LaFitte, alone and ignored for the moment, decides that discretion is the better part of valor.

He gathers up the assassin, knife and all. Such a thing is worthy of study.

He saw the small bundle of explosives. These also were worthy of study.

Then he noticed a human picking up the assassin's corpse and remembered the little bits of clay which were the cause of so much trouble.
I don't know what to do with them, however. Though I am sure any number of Kvista would be willing, nay eager to investigate them... Are we ready to have this kind of power? Those who had them today proved they were not.

Aipiskaupus watched the human scavenger quizzically. He thought he'd seen the same at the Council itself.

((OOC - Let me know if John isn't a human. :P))

[WaylanderX]

"I should realise this, though what with the Council occuring during the day, the Salterri Debate and various statements made by others here has me a little more on edge than I should. Then the Council gets blown up..."

Aipiskaupus looks at Tailong as Vanya was issuing orders. It didn't look as though he was alive; perhaps he was not. Were the moon and stars out, Aipiskaupus would look to them and ask Stellyx to guide Tailong but instead the sky was filled with a brightness that made his eyes ache. Truly, he was tired.



Then he noticed a human picking up the assassin's corpse and remembered the little bits of clay which were the cause of so much trouble.
I don't know what to do with them, however. Though I am sure any number of Kvista would be willing, nay eager to investigate them... Are we ready to have this kind of power? Those who had them today proved they were not.

Aipiskaupus watched the human scavenger quizzically. He thought he'd seen the same at the Council itself.

((OOC - Let me know if John isn't a human. :P))

Perched on a nearby rooftop, Nyllana watched Tailong fall and the ensuiing fights with the Bordeux assassin.

"Heh, some things never change, I guess." She muttered to herself, her stinger-tipped tail swinging irritatedly.

She looked at Tailong, seeing the amount of blood and the wound on his back. Although visibly a good healer, the Kaiser's Prowess wouldn't be enough alone to save him. Despite not having a specific fondness of the Salterri, she couldn't let Ridovo have his way either.

She floated down, calling to the Kaiser as he left Tailong.

"Sir Kaiser, Tailong still is in need of your Prowess. Can you lend me your assistance for a minute more?"

With that said, she took Aonami of her back, blue energy coarsing through the weapon. The Avatar started to chant, calling upon Ashmar to grant her the power to fight back against corruption and restoring the balance. She moved the weapon over the wound, a thin lightblue thread streaming forth from the tip of the weapon, basically sowing shut the wound and healing the area. However, doing this to a wound that draining from live's energy, she couldn't complete the healing entirely. That's where she needed the Kaiser's help.

"Kaiser, his heart is mended for the most part, barring some small punctures in his left ventricle and left lung. However, your Prowess in the healing arts should be more than enough to stablize him. Please, lend him your aid."

[Rain Dragon]

Perched on a nearby rooftop, Nyllana watched Tailong fall and the ensuing fights with the Bordeux assassin.

"Heh, some things never change, I guess." She muttered to herself, her stinger-tipped tail swinging irritatedly.

She looked at Tailong, seeing the amount of blood and the wound on his back. Although visibly a good healer, the Kaiser's Prowess wouldn't be enough alone to save him. Despite not having a specific fondness of the Salterri, she couldn't let Ridovo have his way either.

She floated down, calling to the Kaiser as he left Tailong.

"Sir Kaiser, Tailong still is in need of your Prowess. Can you lend me your assistance for a minute more?"

With that said, she took Aonami of her back, blue energy coarsing through the weapon. The Avatar started to chant, calling upon Ashmar to grant her the power to fight back against corruption and restoring the balance. She moved the weapon over the wound, a thin lightblue thread streaming forth from the tip of the weapon, basically sewing shut the wound and healing the area. However, doing this to a wound that draining from live's energy, she couldn't complete the healing entirely. That's where she needed the Kaiser's help.

"Kaiser, his heart is mended for the most part, barring some small punctures in his left ventricle and left lung. However, your Prowess in the healing arts should be more than enough to stablize him. Please, lend him your aid."

Aipiskaupus was a little surprised as the strange being addressed him after carrying out some strange ritual on the human. Though, the strange being's request was certainly reasonable.

"Have you anything which may help these punctures heal with time and prevent further bleeding? A plant, some dust? It is unsafe to do more than sew closed the wound and hope that what has been done already will suffice." Aipiskaupus' words seemed empty to those unused to a Haljan's speech, spoken with an accent causing them to sound heavy and harsh, "Think you perhaps that it may be safe to move this human gently to some shade? He needs clean bandages and stitches else his wound will become corrupted." Aipiskaupus notes a pair of Leikjos and the Leikjos Kvista's Scythe-wielder approach.

"Clean needle, thread, bandage, water. If possible, a cloak so I do not burn." Aipiskaupus ordered the Leijos in Haljan. The scythe-wielder was the only one to remain.

((OOC - At the moment, Aipiskaupus is wearing nothing except a wide black cloth sash around his hips.))
EDIT - Missed a sentence.

[WaylanderX]

Aipiskaupus was a little surprised as the strange being addressed him after carrying out some strange ritual on the human. Though, the strange being's request was certainly reasonable.

"Have you anything which may help these punctures heal with time and prevent further bleeding? A plant, some dust? It is unsafe to do more than sew closed the wound and hope that what has been done already will suffice." Aipiskaupus' words seemed empty to those unused to a Haljan's speech, spoken with an accent causing them to sound heavy and harsh, "Think you perhaps that it may be safe to move this human gently to some shade? He needs clean bandages and stitches else his wound will become corrupted." Aipiskaupus notes a pair of Leikjos and the Leikjos Kvista's Scythe-wielder approach.

"Clean needle, thread, bandage, water. If possible, a cloak so I do not burn." Aipiskaupus ordered the Leijos in Haljan. The scythe-wielder was the only one to remain.

((OOC - At the moment, Aipiskaupus is wearing nothing except a wide black cloth sash around his hips.))
EDIT - Missed a sentence.

"Shade...yes. I do not possess the energy to drag him into....the shade though." Nyllana said, exhausted. "As for the.....punctures, I have some alcohol on.....me, to disinfect the wounds and keep.....them clean. I'm afraid that I do not have any.....appropiate herbs on me."

She flew away from the ravaged body of the Qzare and seated herself in the shade, heavily panting.

"Ttss, I still have alot of practise to do involving the mastery of Ashmar's might. How inconvenient."

The thought lingered in her head for some time.

"Although I can think up of anyone else who might have pulled it off though."

She closed her eyes, a small smile upon her lips.

[Kitsanth]

Captain Dhauneld returns with several others. As ordered, they have brought a stretcher with them, as well as some clean bandages. And no Niskan is ever without a flask of vodka, so the unconscious man that the Grand Prince had ordered them to assist should be in good hands.

"Kaiser! I am surprised that you are still here." Dhauneld said, "Please, I insist that you take my robe, the sun must be getting to you by now."

The Karranan handed his robe to the Kaiser, then asked, "How can we best be of assistance here? The Grand Prince had ordered us to have this man moved somewhere more comfortable and so I had the men locate a stretcher. Also, we have some medical supplies. Not up to Haljan standards but they should suffice."

The Captain indicates to his men that they should comply with any orders the Kaiser or his Liekjos relays to them.

[Rain Dragon]

"Shade...yes. I do not possess the energy to drag him into....the shade though." Nyllana said, exhausted. "As for the.....punctures, I have some alcohol on.....me, to disinfect the wounds and keep.....them clean. I'm afraid that I do not have any.....appropiate herbs on me."

She flew away from the ravaged body of the Qzare and seated herself in the shade, heavily panting.

"Ttss, I still have alot of practise to do involving the mastery of Ashmar's might. How inconvenient."

The thought lingered in her head for some time.

"Although I can think up of anyone else who might have pulled it off though."

She closed her eyes, a small smile upon her lips.

Captain Dhauneld returns with several others. As ordered, they have brought a stretcher with them, as well as some clean bandages. And no Niskan is ever without a flask of vodka, so the unconscious man that the Grand Prince had ordered them to assist should be in good hands.

"Kaiser! I am surprised that you are still here." Dhauneld said, "Please, I insist that you take my robe, the sun must be getting to you by now."

The Karranan handed his robe to the Kaiser, then asked, "How can we best be of assistance here? The Grand Prince had ordered us to have this man moved somewhere more comfortable and so I had the men locate a stretcher. Also, we have some medical supplies. Not up to Haljan standards but they should suffice."

The Captain indicates to his men that they should comply with any orders the Kaiser or his Leikjos relays to them.

"You have rather good timing." Aipiskaupus raised his antennae slightly at the Captain as he swiftly donned the robe, "Remember to be extremely gentle. The human has sustained a chest wound. The shade over there by..." Aipiskaupus does not remember being introduced, though the guardsmen did not seem confused.

Once Tailong had successfully been moved to the shade, Aipiskaupus focussed on the wounded human's chest. By this point, the explosives had been more or less forgotten. Just as he had finished cleaning the small punctures within the human with alcohol, the Leikjos arrived with clean medical supplies.

Aipiskaupus stitched shut the wound with the utmost care before properly bandaging Tailong's chest and placing some cloth beneath his back so that his upper torso was slightly elevated. The Kaiser was unsure if Tailong was breathing, but could not bring himself to check for a pulse. The human seemed peaceful.

"I... I'm not sure it was enough Milady. I dare not check."

[Morph Bark]

Tailong's pulse was weak and his left lung had filled with blood. His chest had been stitched masterfully, but the true wound had been deeper, it's damage already done. Whilst in the grip of death his own hands held on to the ancient golden-orange sword that Rongyao had given him.


Tailong is surely going to die at this point. The sword he has in his hands was Hanyeo's sword that he had with him at the Jarrow weddings of 415, and which Rongyao had with him during the Summit meeting earlier.

[SamBurke]

Inigo races to the side of Tailong, propping up his head and clearing his mouth as best as possible. "There has been much enmity between our people of late... I wish to change that. It is now that I wish on your dying breath and with my battle clarity to swear the marriage of my son Vizini to a daughter of yours. Who would you wish to consummate this alliance with?"

As he asks, Inigo notices the Sword of the Salterri, fallen to the side, and picks it up with care. "Your people... are broken... Perhaps the more important question is what you wish to do about Salteire?" He slips the sword into his belt, leaning in close to hear Tailong's coughing words.

[lt_murgen]

((OOC - Let me know if John isn't a human. :P))

OOC- John is mostly human, with the ruff/mane of the Cassia / shengdi natives (have bordusii, half shengdi native). He was at the council, and is obvioulsy wealthy/noble from his (damaged and dirty) clothing.