[Empire] Primus - The Grand Tournament

[HalfTangible]

[Primus - Valkyrie]

When foreign dignitaries and ambassadors arrived at the foothills of the Highback mountains, they would find knights and mounted beasts awaiting them. Those who were not equipped were given at the very least a small dagger, and taken to a network of caves lined with torches. Their guide would lead the ambassadors in and out through the mountains, passing through several villages lined along the mountain trails.

The foreigners would be met with equal parts fear and awe by the country's women, with the occasional whisper and giggle following them. The men in these cities were far more subdued. Many wore collars and leashes, meekly standing next to whatever woman held it. A few would smile up at the arrivals and wave, a dull but pleasant expression on their faces.

What would probably strike the foreigners as strange, however, would be the sheer number of people with weapons. Every man, woman and child was armed. Many of the wealthier people were armored, and even the youngest of children at least had a small dagger. That explained why they had all been given weapons, but not why the people had them. Despite the sheer number of armed citizens, however, the foreigners were never attacked.

At the end of the fourth day, just as the sun was beginning to sink on the horizon, they would catch their first glimpse of Valkyrie, the nation's capital, from across the valley.

The city had been built on a plateau of sorts connected to the rest of the Highback mountains, and its buildings had been carved into the cliffside. This gave the impression of sweeping towers and massive constructs, a majestic sight to behold. The city was surrounded by a wall covered in spikes, and only one road led out into the mountains. Their guide informed them that there were actually two ways in, the other a large tunnel that they couldn't see from the mountain trail.

At the center of the city - visible even from across the valley - was a massive coliseum, able to seat thousands. This was used for gladiatorial combat and honor duels, and all roads eventually lead to this one building. Behind it was the Imperial Palace, an impressive structure of stone that seemed to rise out of the mountain itself.

It would take another three days to actually reach the city, however, since the road leading into it was so circuitous. It would even leave the dignitary's sight twice more before finally arriving at the city's gate. They were met by High Queen Roethye herself, as well as High Princess Breydice. The former was a woman in her later 30s. She wore ceremonial light purple armor that was half-plate and made from moonsilver. Her hair was short and brown, and she bore a large halberd in her hand with a black and road cloak on her back. The latter's armor was black trimmed with gold, and her blood-red hair went down to her waist. Strapped to each side of her hip was a short sword with a matching design.

The younger woman bowed as the older reached out a hand. "I am High Queen Roethye Primus. This is my daughter and heir, High Princess Breydice Primus. On behalf of all of the Imperium, I welcome you to the grand tournament."

Rounding: Add all your numbers together, then round down.

Descriptions

Mass Melee: A mock battle between each nation's respective military force, to the last person standing. Nations may bring their own troops or be provided their own. This contest takes place in a large arena in the center of Primus, normally used for honor duels and gladiatorial combat. However, numerous temporary buildings and obstacles have been added to make the combat more dynamic.

Navy: In the valley below Primus is a lake that will be used for a mock naval engagement. It will begin at dawn on the final day of the tournament. The victor will be the last boat seaworthy. Primus had provided the ships themselves, but it wouldn't hurt to have a personal navy with trained sailors...

Simurgh Track: Though Primus has only recently begun importing the winged wolves of the Ambrose Ascendancy, they took to them almost immediately. They have a sport in which the Simurghs are used to race three laps around a circular track. Ambrose rides them individually, while Primus uses them to pull chariots. Simurghs and chariots are provided to the contestants. The race takes place in the same gladiatorial arena as the mass melee, but obviously with a cleared track.

War Chess: Created by Phelnia and Varadia Primus in the year 105 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20078105&postcount=115), this game is one of the most popular in Primus that does not have blood. The players each get an equal number of pieces of equal strength, but roll off to determine who wins a particular engagement. The game is meant to simulate the only slightly predictable nature of war.



Event
Roll
Bonus/Penalty


Mass Melee
2d6 + Half Military
+2 if you have a land army, +1 if you have any troops at all


Naval
2d6 + Half Military
+2 if you have a navy, +1 if you have any troops at all


Simurgh Track
2d6 + Half Military + Half Diplomacy
+2 if your nation has Simurghs, +1 if you have a ridable beast


War Chess
2d6 + Half (Curiosity OR Military) + Half Luck
... Yeah I can't think of anything for this one, just roll.


Duel Tournament
I'll be handling this - See below
+1 per region your nation currently controls, +2 if you're in a federation or GK.


Duel Tournament
Put down your nation, the participant's name, how many regions you control, and whether your nation is a GK/Federation. You'll face each opponent once.

Participant: (Name of whoever your participant is - one per nation, please.)
Realm: (Name of your nation/state/realm/federation/whatever.)
Regions in Realm: (Stands to reason that if you can draw on more people, you can find more duelists and thus find a better one, right?)
GK/Federation?: (Simple enough. Are you either of these things? Yes? Congrats, you get a bonus.



Participant: High Princess Breydice
Realm: The Primus Imperium
Regions in Realm: 4
GK/Federation?: No





(>)Event (V) Realm
Mass Melee
Naval
Simurgh
War Chess
Duels (Name - W/L/T)


The Primus Imperium
13
9
11
16
High Princess Breydice Primus - 2/2/0


The Jade Coalition
4
12
11
9
??? - 4/0/0


The Ambrose Ascendancy
11
9
14
16
Arsen Rosso - 2/2/0


Avonlea
5
10
16
9
Nineve Blackpool - 1/3/0


Nand
Mass Melee
Naval
Simurgh
14
Duel Tournament (W/L/T)


Nifhel
14
13
13
20
Fjöldadráp, the Herald of War - 1/3/0


Aeldir Courts
Mass Melee
Naval
Simurgh
17
Duels (Name - W/L/T)

[QuintonBeck]

When news had reached the Council from Puldine Acreage of a force of armed soldiers bearing crests and symbols of a united realm to their south there had been serious discussion about what this could mean. The Zol had wanted to contact these southerners, inform them they had no business in the area and threaten them to head back where they had come from. The Puldinites, without a vote on the Council had urged cautious diplomacy which had been well received by the Czerwons, Niebisks, and Fiolty. The Krolzer, while initially inclined to agree with the Zol, was swayed by the Council's debate and ordered a diplomatic envoy to be gathered and sent.

It was at the head of that envoy that Leonard now rode, the strong gray back of his mare plodding on beneath him carrying him forward. A few months after the meeting which had decided on the course of action had concluded a message had come from the southern realm, this Primus Imperium, inviting the Jade Coalition to a Grand Tourney. It was decided that there would be a good place for the Coalition to learn about this Imperium and ascertain its intent. Leonard hoped things would go peacefully.

The whole Coalition procession was no larger than twenty, all men, most of fighting age to compete in the tournament with Leonard being the elder by a significant margin. Nearing his 60th year he was a man of professional and curt bearing. He wore a green robe to represent the unity of the coalition, woven of silk and linen. He wore a neatly trimmed grey goatee and his pepper hair was visibly thinning over top his head. He was of light skin and his fingernails were nearly an inch long, polished and bright to show his wealth and position. He wore a ring, a simple band of gold, on his left hand pinkie finger but was otherwise unadorned with jewelry. His eyes were a pale grey though the alacrity with which they scanned the horizon, and once entering Valkyrie the warrior women, betrayed a quick mind.

Having served as the ambassador of the Niebisk Acreage at the formation of the Coalition some thirty years back and passed over for a seat on the Council only because of his unfortunate history with the Krolzer's brother Leonard had made a perfect candidate for this mission. While he was still celebrated as a hero and recognized with favor by the Krolzer on public occasions he knew he was doomed never to rise to the Council, stuck on as a liaison between Council and Acreage or whatever the Council decided he would need to be next. This time it was ambassador to the Primus Imperium. Depending on how things went it might be something else the next time or it might be he had found himself a permanent position.

As he was led to the hosts of the event he looked them over, processing their appearance at his approach. The older woman appeared to be in charge, naturally, and wore a rather crude looking piece of strange metal fashioned in a way that reminded Leonard of paintings in books found in the Library which had depicted the warriors of the Old Empire. The quality of the craftsmanship was certainly no comparison but whether that was due to exaggeration by Old Imperial artists or lacking skill by the Primus he was unsure. In any event the armed nature of them both, in the elder's case bearing two weapons, was somewhat alarming and once more Leonard thought through the possibility that this was intended as a trap by the Primus Imperium and the reason he had been sent. As the elder woman spoke however he relaxed, it seemed he would not be skewered here in this foreign land.

"Greetings High Queen Roethye," Leonard bowed his head respectfully, "And to you High Princess. I am Leonard Stawski Wyrzyk of the Jade Coalition. We received your kind invitation and were happy to reply. I have brought some of our finest fighters that they might participate in your grand tournament. While I am afraid I am too old to put up a significant fight against the younger generation it is my desire that I might discuss matters of the realms with yourself or your representative High Queen."


Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20138080&postcount=256)

Duel Tournament: +10

[HalfTangible]

For the record, Breydice is the younger one, and SHE'S the one with two short swords. Roethye is the one with a halberd.

Jade Coalition

Roethye took her measure of the man before her and what it could mean. The man's eyes darted around the city with a bright keen awareness. However, he was in his sixties, and here as an ambassador. Probably a well-respected man, but not one necessary for the functioning of his realm. So this task was important, but not dire. Good. The Coalition could potentially be reasoned with and made into a proper Imperial vassal, or she could continue their expansion west.

Breydice found herself instantly disliking this man. While there was no doubt he spoke with a regal bearing and gave her proper respect, he was... too clean. It was the fingernails. They looked as if they had never grasped a tool in their life. They were like her aunt's, only Tusameia's were at least worn enough to indicate she used her sword regularly.

Roethye held out the hand that wasn't holding her halberd, smiling. "Of course. I had planned to let you rest from your journey, but if you wish to discuss matters immediately I can accommodate. Come, we shall speak in the palace."

Breydice gestured down the road. "If you're here for the tournament, come with me. The coliseum has room for your stay."

[PepperP.]

The Ambrose Ascendancy

Belinda's eyes looked down from the rocky trail of the Imperium's mountain pass to her young son Colson, who nestled in a warm wrap against her breast, had fallen asleep against her. Milk dribbled down his chin and onto the front of the simple white top she had chosen for traveling. She had not expected to be a new mother again at her age, but the toddler was a sweet boy who lacked both of his much older siblings willful streak. Her eyes found Alessa near the front of the Ambrose procession. Her daughter was older now than she had been when she was promised to Derris, and indeed older than when her mother had birthed her. Alessa had forgone sensible travel wear for an intricate red ensemble threaded with gold, and she rode her mount proudly, her back stiff even after days on the trail to Valkyrie. Several respectable offers for her hand were recieved at Castle Eroton daily, but Alessa insisted that none suited her thus far, and Belinda was loath to force her hand.

Graylace, the family's pet simurgh, wound her way through their mount's feet to race after an enticing scent, causing them to whinny and sidestep. Colson jerked from his sleep crying and rubbed his sleepy eyes. Derris rode up to his wife and lifted the boy to sit in front of him and offered the reins to him. Colson took them in his chubby fingers and waved his hands wildly, looking up and back at his father, grinning widely. Belinda grinned at them both fondly as she fastened the ties of her blouse and stuffed the wrap back into a saddlepack. Though they had established trade and relations with the Imperium, this was their first visit to Valkyrie itself. They had caught glimpses of the large stone city as the trail ambled through the rough mountain terrain. Finally, on the third day of traveling, they approached the city as the clear blue sky turned to crimson, and then to indigo as the sun set.

Two Ambrose bannermen headed the procession, followed by the Protos's family, including Maldarr Drivas, the Archess's cousin and Polemarchos of the Drivas clan. After them came a few Polemarchos of other prominent clans, notably Arsen Rosso, an intimidating figure with tattoos across his wide, bare chest as if scratched by a great cat, and his long thick dark hair plaited so it hung down his back to his waist, and the realm's Stratigos, Galon Berberis, high off of his recent successful campaign to incorporate Çangalamin. Behind him were leaders of lesser clans and the various individuals seeking to make a name for themselves in the tournament. Derris dismounted, handing Colson off to his mother, and greeted the Imperium royals respectfully, glad after seeing the overt show of weaponry, that he had worn his sword.

"Greetings, High Queen Roethye. It is a pleasure to finally meet face to face, and to see you again, Princess Breydice." He greeted the proud women respectfully, handling introductions himself, as he was wont to do, having little patience for undue pomp during which he might get distracted from the task at hand, He turned back to Roethye,

"I am Protos Archigos Derris Asker, of Ambrose. This is my wife, the Archess, and her kinsman Polemarchos Maldarr Drivas." He paused minutely as Arsen Rosso boldly stepped forward to be introduced,

"This is Polemarchos Arsen Rosso." The large, fierce looking man nodded in satisfaction.

"Many of us look forward to the thrill of the tournaments, and are quite eager to tour your great city." Derris said with a cocked grin to smooth over any untoward awkwardness caused by Arsen.

"Also, we have brought a barrel of Trifylii's finest ale, I know you're familiar with our region's fine brandy, I think you'll find our ale quite nice as well." He gestured for a large heavy barrel to be brought forward, and offered it to Roethye.

Rolls (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20138775&postcount=259)
Mass Melee 11
Navy 9
Simurgh Track 14
War Chess 16


Participant: Arsen Rosso
Realm: Ambrose
Regions in Realm: 7
GK/Federation?: No.


Protos Archigos Derris Asker
His wife, Archess Belinda Asker
Their daughter, Alessa Asker (21, unbetrothed)
Polemarchos Mad Maldarr Drivas, leader of Clan Drivas and Derris's right hand man.
Polemarchos Arsen Rosso

[QuintonBeck]

Jade Coalition

Roethye took her measure of the man before her and what it could mean. The man's eyes darted around the city with a bright keen awareness. However, he was in his sixties, and here as an ambassador. Probably a well-respected man, but not one necessary for the functioning of his realm. So this task was important, but not dire. Good. The Coalition could potentially be reasoned with and made into a proper Imperial vassal, or she could continue their expansion west.

Breydice found herself instantly disliking this man. While there was no doubt he spoke with a regal bearing and gave her proper respect, he was... too clean. It was the fingernails. They looked as if they had never grasped a tool in their life. They were like her aunt's, only Tusameia's were at least worn enough to indicate she used her sword regularly.

Roethye held out the hand that wasn't holding her halberd, smiling. "Of course. I had planned to let you rest from your journey, but if you wish to discuss matters immediately I can accommodate. Come, we shall speak in the palace."

Breydice gestured down the road. "If you're here for the tournament, come with me. The coliseum has room for your stay."

Leonard hesitated for a moment and moved to take the High Queen's hand, remembering the custom of the Puldine Acreage.

"I didn't do much of the journeying myself," Leonard smiled, "Ole Graymare did most of the traveling for me. Still, I wouldn't say no to a chance to get my bearings. It is quite the city you have here amidst these mountains. I suspect the Fiolty would find it especially disorienting so high up and away from the sea. Mountains are filled with such wonders though. Gems and metals. Or so we hear from travelers. I'm afraid the Coalition doesn't have many mighty ranges of our own."

"Perhaps I might make a suggestion? That we speak of trivialities to ourselves that might serve as wonders to the other. Relaxation, orientation, and an easy beginning to discussion of deeper things."

As Leonard smiled and schmoozed the Queen the fighters followed the High Princess in respectful silence. It might be noticed as she passed them that each wore a different color sash tied around their left arm: yellow, blue, red, but all were striped down their middle with a green line. They bore no heraldic symbols of houses or other such things as Primus might be familiar with but they walked and stood no different than the soldiers of Primus or the other human lands.

[HalfTangible]

[Ambrose Ascendancy]

Roethye grabbed the offered barrel. She immediately broke it open and began drinking.

... Yes, she liked the brandy.

Breydice bowed at the waist. "You as well, Protos Archigos. I am glad you chose to come personally to the Imperium."

Roethye sighed with satisfaction and placed the tankard down. Oh, that tasted sweet. She then held out her arms to the Protos in welcome. "Breydice tells me good things about the Ascendancy, and you personally. I'm glad you deigned to join us in trade."

A bit of an understatement, really. While the Imperium as a whole had not yet gotten all it needed to be stable, its partnership with the Ambrose Ascendancy had provided it with much that it did. Primus had taken to the Simurghs like a forest takes to trees. Secundus - to everyone's surprise and slight confusion - had begun using the Ascendancy's camels as beasts of burden.

And Roethye had drained the barrel of brandy that Breydice had brought back in one night. The Ambrose had pretty much ensured that Primus' expansion would go west.

[HalfTangible]

Leonard hesitated for a moment and moved to take the High Queen's hand, remembering the custom of the Puldine Acreage.

"I didn't do much of the journeying myself," Leonard smiled, "Ole Graymare did most of the traveling for me. Still, I wouldn't say no to a chance to get my bearings. It is quite the city you have here amidst these mountains. I suspect the Fiolty would find it especially disorienting so high up and away from the sea. Mountains are filled with such wonders though. Gems and metals. Or so we hear from travelers. I'm afraid the Coalition doesn't have many mighty ranges of our own."

"Perhaps I might make a suggestion? That we speak of trivialities to ourselves that might serve as wonders to the other. Relaxation, orientation, and an easy beginning to discussion of deeper things."

As Leonard smiled and schmoozed the Queen the fighters followed the High Princess in respectful silence. It might be noticed as she passed them that each wore a different color sash tied around their left arm: yellow, blue, red, but all were striped down their middle with a green line. They bore no heraldic symbols of houses or other such things as Primus might be familiar with but they walked and stood no different than the soldiers of Primus or the other human lands.

"As you wish. You are a guest here, after all." The High Queen made note of that for later as she and Leonard turned to walk. If the Jade Coalition turned out to be hostile, she could probably find a way to play these differing factions against one another... If there was one thing Primus understood, it was loyalty to those who united you.

"Lady Eventus tells me that when she first encountered the Coalition's lands, they referred to themselves as a... Tributary?... That implies," She looked directly at him, "That they are not officially part of your territory, but rather are under your protection. That seems... odd, to me."

"I do hope she wasn't rough on the locals. She's rather eager to gain her own territory for her house before she passes. Lady Eventus' belongings will pass to her daughter, but not her name." She rolled her eyes. "Assuming no one challenges her for her title, of course, which I don't see happening. An entire noble house led by an adopted child? No, she'll be challenged soon as Lady Eventus herself kicks the bucket."

Leonard would note that, much like on the road here, most everyone bore a weapon of some sort - the children all wore daggers, but the older children and adults had a wide variety of swords, hammers, spears... one person even had a flail as long as a staff. However, unlike on the road, most everyone wore some form of armor.

"Bearing weaponry is a sign of respect here." She added, seeing where his eyes lingered. "To go without it implies that those around you are too weak and foolish to hurt you."

"Oh, and" She added, raising an eyebrow at him, "If you want to know about things that seem trivial to the Primal but a wonder to you... Monogamy is not a thing and public intimacy is very common. I'm told that's rare."

[QuintonBeck]

"As you wish. You are a guest here, after all." The High Queen made note of that for later as she and Leonard turned to walk. If the Jade Coalition turned out to be hostile, she could probably find a way to play these differing factions against one another... If there was one thing Primus understood, it was loyalty to those who united you.

"Lady Eventus tells me that when she first encountered the Coalition's lands, they referred to themselves as a... Tributary?... That implies," She looked directly at him, "That they are not officially part of your territory, but rather are under your protection. That seems... odd, to me."

"I do hope she wasn't rough on the locals. She's rather eager to gain her own territory for her house before she passes. Lady Eventus' belongings will pass to her daughter, but not her name." She rolled her eyes. "Assuming no one challenges her for her title, of course, which I don't see happening. An entire noble house led by an adopted child? No, she'll be challenged soon as Lady Eventus herself kicks the bucket."

Leonard would note that, much like on the road here, most everyone bore a weapon of some sort - the children all wore daggers, but the older children and adults had a wide variety of swords, hammers, spears... one person even had a flail as long as a staff. However, unlike on the road, most everyone wore some form of armor.

"Bearing weaponry is a sign of respect here." She added, seeing where his eyes lingered. "To go without it implies that those around you are too weak and foolish to hurt you."

"Oh, and" She added, raising an eyebrow at him, "If you want to know about things that seem trivial to the Primal but a wonder to you... Monogamy is not a thing and public intimacy is very common. I'm told that's rare."

Leonard turned to look at the Queen a startled look on his face, not because of the content of the answer but the non-sequiter brevity of it, "Hm, oh well I wouldn't know. About it's rarity. Lots of different opinions on that sort of thing. The Council doesn't tend to involve itself too heavily in the private lives of citizens, patrician or plebeian. The Krolzer has had three wives, two of which overlapped but myself have only ever loved one woman. In the Puldine Acreage, those are the lands your Lady Eventus found her way to, I believe they see public affection as a warding off of evil spirits or somesuch but amongst the Zol such expressions are frowned upon."

"But, on the matter of Puldine's current status. The Coalition is not an aggressive military power, we are capable of defending ourselves and our allied tributaries, but conquest is against our nature. Our history is... complicated despite it's relative youth as relates to the Coalition directly, but sufficed to say we prefer to incorporate lands peacefully or to cooperate with the people native there to come to a mutually beneficial arrangement. Puldine may be incorporated directly into the Coalition at some point in the future but for now it is more advantageous for both our realms that they remain a tributary, think of it as a sort of probationary period before joining our Coalition. Perhaps you have not witnessed such things but before the Coalition there was the Empire and it's subjugation through military might is what led to its fall and the dark times. The Coalition came about in direct opposition to this history of violent oppression and rebellion. When a military powerhouse imposes its will on those outside its king's natural domain it invites unrest and death. Peace is a common Ninth Virtue amongst our people."

"Ah, yes, we are followers of the Doctrine of the Nine Candles, largely. The impetus for the formation of the Coalition 30 years prior was the preachings of a Doctrine Ascetic in the wartorn capital of the Old Empire and the teachings have guided us ever since. What faith do the people of your great Imperium ascribe to? I know the Doctrine traveled our way from the south. Do we perhaps have brothers, or perhaps I should say sisters, in these southern lands?"

[PepperP.]

[Ambrose Ascendancy]

Roethye grabbed the offered barrel. She immediately broke it open and began drinking.

... Yes, she liked the brandy.

Breydice bowed at the waist. "You as well, Protos Archigos. I am glad you chose to come personally to the Imperium."

Roethye sighed with satisfaction and placed the tankard down. Oh, that tasted sweet. She then held out her arms to the Protos in welcome. "Breydice tells me good things about the Ascendancy, and you personally. I'm glad you deigned to join us in trade."

A bit of an understatement, really. While the Imperium as a whole had not yet gotten all it needed to be stable, its partnership with the Ambrose Ascendancy had provided it with much that it did. Primus had taken to the Simurghs like a forest takes to trees. Secundus - to everyone's surprise and slight confusion - had begun using the Ascendancy's camels as beasts of burden.

And Roethye had drained the barrel of brandy that Breydice had brought back in one night. The Ambrose had pretty much ensured that Primus' expansion would go west.

Derris watched the Imperium Queen down the tankard with a mixture of surprised awe and amusement. Maldarr chuckled next to him and Arsen grunted approval at the Queen's display of appreciation for their ale. As the Queen opened her arms to him, he looked to Belinda, unsure of what was expected. Taken aback, but not wishing to offend their new trade partners and hosts, in case this was customary, Belinda subtly nodded to Derris, and shoo'd him forward with her hands. Derris, unsure of whether to put his arms around the Queen's waist or shoulders, compromised with one of each, leaned in and patted her on the back for good measure.

"We were pleased to have come to a mutually beneficial agreement, Queen Roethye, and we can see about adding the ale to our trade route." Derris said as he stood back up and straightened his jacket.

Belinda worked to cover her amused grin, you'd think her husband had never hugged a woman before.

[HalfTangible]

Derris watched the Imperium Queen down the tankard with a mixture of surprised awe and amusement. Maldarr chuckled next to him and Arsen grunted approval at the Queen's display of appreciation for their ale. As the Queen opened her arms to him, he looked to Belinda, unsure of what was expected. Taken aback, but not wishing to offend their new trade partners and hosts, in case this was customary, Belinda subtly nodded to Derris, and shoo'd him forward with her hands. Derris, unsure of whether to put his arms around the Queen's waist or shoulders, compromised with one of each, leaned in and patted her on the back for good measure.[Ambrose Ascendancy]

"Oho, don't be shy~" She purred as they hugged.

Breydice looked to Belinda and rolled her eyes. It seemed even amongst bloodthirsty warrior women, mothers embarrassed their daughters.


"We were pleased to have come to a mutually beneficial agreement, Queen Roethye, and we can see about adding the ale to our trade route." Derris said as he stood back up and straightened his jacket.

Belinda worked to cover her amused grin, you'd think her husband had never hugged a woman before.Roethye nodded as if nothing had happened. "Indeed. House Conferrus informs me that Secundus has taken well to these 'camels', and Primus is taking very well to the simurghs." She jabbed her thumb back at the coliseum. "They're not ready for combat yet, not by a long shot, but they handle chariots well enough and have made traveling Primus less than an utter nightmare."

"The brandy has also made a good impression." Breydice said calmly. "You know I personally don't touch the stuff, but those who do tell me it's high quality."

"I do hope you've found our own contributions to your liking?"


Leonard turned to look at the Queen a startled look on his face, not because of the content of the answer but the non-sequiter brevity of it, "Hm, oh well I wouldn't know. About it's rarity. Lots of different opinions on that sort of thing. The Council doesn't tend to involve itself too heavily in the private lives of citizens, patrician or plebeian. The Krolzer has had three wives, two of which overlapped but myself have only ever loved one woman. In the Puldine Acreage, those are the lands your Lady Eventus found her way to, I believe they see public affection as a warding off of evil spirits or somesuch but amongst the Zol such expressions are frowned upon."

"But, on the matter of Puldine's current status. The Coalition is not an aggressive military power, we are capable of defending ourselves and our allied tributaries, but conquest is against our nature. Our history is... complicated despite it's relative youth as relates to the Coalition directly, but sufficed to say we prefer to incorporate lands peacefully or to cooperate with the people native there to come to a mutually beneficial arrangement. Puldine may be incorporated directly into the Coalition at some point in the future but for now it is more advantageous for both our realms that they remain a tributary, think of it as a sort of probationary period before joining our Coalition. Perhaps you have not witnessed such things but before the Coalition there was the Empire and it's subjugation through military might is what led to its fall and the dark times. The Coalition came about in direct opposition to this history of violent oppression and rebellion. When a military powerhouse imposes its will on those outside its king's natural domain it invites unrest and death. Peace is a common Ninth Virtue amongst our people."

"Ah, yes, we are followers of the Doctrine of the Nine Candles, largely. The impetus for the formation of the Coalition 30 years prior was the preachings of a Doctrine Ascetic in the wartorn capital of the Old Empire and the teachings have guided us ever since. What faith do the people of your great Imperium ascribe to? I know the Doctrine traveled our way from the south. Do we perhaps have brothers, or perhaps I should say sisters, in these southern lands?"[Jade Coalition]

Roethye had grown very tense at the mention of the old empire. "... Primus can certainly understand wishing to avoid a dark past." Her free hand clenched into a fist. "And wishing it had never occurred..."

She looked at Leonard directly when he brought up religion. "Primus doesn't have much interest in spirituality - we're warriors, not mystics. There's a persistent belief in some of the villages that heroes that are never acknowledged are reborn into positions of privilege - royalty, nobility, merchants, etc - but there's no serious organization and no other group holds a presence worth mentioning. There might be Doctrine followers here, though I do not know of them if so. If you go further south you might have more luck."

[Mary_Sue]

Avonlea

High Queen Thalia Darkthorne and her party arrived at Valkyrie at length, they had endured the climb up to the city patiently. They had traveled for weeks to attend the Tournament, what more was three days in the mountain passes. The women of Avonlea were dressed for travel in boots and short dresses made of practical pleated leather that afforded them ease of movement, fair hair braided and either hung at their backs, or wound around their heads like a crown. Thalia had been surprised upon arriving at Primus Territory that the realm was also seemingly ruled by the women, as her own was. Men smiled at her shyly as she rode past, and then went on with their tasks. Some women smiled, and some gazed at them curiously, or with hostility, weapons pulled and at the ready. Her own party was comprised solely of women, bar one, including her small contingent of loyal guards who flanked the queen. Her handmaidens rode with her and behind her, exclaiming at the beautiful mountain views, or waving at a particularly handsome man and giggling.

The one male exception was a small dark haired boy who rode in Thalia's lap quietly. His big blue eyes took in the sights of their travels carefully and solemnly as the world continued to flow by him, in a steady stream of new sensory stimulation, the sights of the ocean and the colorful markets, the sounds of people all around him laughing and talking and sometimes arguing, the smells of livestock and exotic foods and spices, all taken in by the child to be filed away for later, for when he could comprehend his experiences. Thalia ran her fingers through her son's dark unruly hair absentmindedly, looking thoughtfully out across the mountain vista as they crossed the bridge to the imposing city proper.

She had come for the Tournament, yes, but she had also come to relinquish her child to his Father as the Prophetess Council had decreed must be so. Her delicate brow knitted together, unhappy with the decree, but bred to respect their decisions. She thought then of Nyle's father, strong and handsome. A leader, respected by his fellows. That could be Nyle's future with his father's people, with her, it would be shipyard work at best. She scowled to think of him ending up in a future queen's harem. The Council was right, of course. As they were in all things. She took in a deep breath to clear her mind, inhaling the clear mountain air along with her child's sweet scent, smiling sadly, a lump suddenly filling her throat as she blinked away tears.

"M'Lady?" Her Handmaiden Helia questioned her as she handed her a handkerchief to dry her eyes.

"I'm only fatigued from the travel, thank you." Thalia shook her head in denial of anything the matter and dried her eyes as they crossed the great bridge and entered the city. Her face was clear as they reached the city gate and were brought to meet High Queen Roethye.

"May I present to you, High Queen Thalia Darkthorne of Avonlea." Helia presented her queen in her high musical voice, clear as a clarion bell.

"It is an honor to be welcomed to your lands M'Lady." Thalia curtsied only slightly awkwardly, as she still held her babe in her arms.

"We come bearing gifts for our hosts," Thalia gestured to her maidens who came forward with several small, rectangular boxes.

"Open one, please." She instructed the girl nearest her fellow High Queen, who ceremoniously opened the small intricately carved box which was revealed to hold several neatly rolled cigars.

"A recent acquisition, M'Lady, tobacco, smooth and fine for smoking, if you please." Thalia awaited response patiently while noticing the resemblance the younger woman bore to the queen, this must be her daughter, she thought to herself, the resemblance is striking.

Link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20140585&postcount=261)


Participant: Nineve Blackpool
Realm: Avonlea
Regions: 4
Bonus: 0

[Aedilred]

With the war in Havanand, few of the best Nanda soldiers could be spared for an event like this, despite the opportunity to show off their prowess in front of an international audience. Indeed, some of the senior officers were concerned that the Grand Army was beginning to acquire a dismal reputation abroad in the face of its recent military reverses, notwithstanding the genius of Terit and that the setbacks had at least come against Nanda opponents. Some setrapa still muttered that they should have pressed ahead against the Prevaz, insisting that one Nend was worth multiple foreigners, though the prince regent was apparently too sensible to give that much credence.

The choice of representatives had been a fraught one, with most of the senior generals and setrapa wanting to miss neither the potential glory in Havanand or the opportunity to exhibit their skills and win renown abroad. Added to that were the rumours that Primus was a land which did not respect men, and Kusal had never felt the absence of an adult woman in the royal family more keenly. Hannah was too young to lead a delegation, and while he had briefly considered requesting that his wife attend, she was in Krozna, and her work there was too important for her to leave. And yet the idea of sending a delegation abroad with no royal representation seemed dangerous, for much the same reasons it had eight years previously.

When he heard about the route, however, that changed things significantly. The number of officers of army and state willing to undertake the journey plummeted once they appreciated that it would involve a trek through mountain tunnels, and had left Kusal with something of a freer hand when it came to selecting the delegates.

The party which arrived in Primus comprised a fairly large group of men and women, mounted on the backs of the large reptiles for which their homeland was known. They were mostly olive-skinned and garbed in a beautiful and sumptuous array of coloured silks, but with a small handful of those which displayed the brightly-coloured skin more typical of the Nanda. These seemed to be the warriors of the group, their bare skin red and orange, and carrying spears, shields and swords. There were a couple more, near-naked on the backs of their steeds, with yet further colours, pink, light purple and blue, looking uneasily around them as they made their way through the underground passages.

A steward attempted to take their minds off it by reading the information on Primus that had been left for them in Ambrose, which went into a great deal of detail about the military of the so-called Imperium and the training of its members.

"It sounds like a recipe for lots of dead soldiers," one of the officers sniffed. "Who will till the fields, build their houses, make their shoes, when the cream of every generation is sent off to die?"

"It seems they put no value on anything except military service," another offered. "Can you imagine my brother in the army? By all accounts he's been a success in Krozna, but had we sent him off to war he'd have been rotting in the ground years ago."

When they eventually reached the city they rode through the streets until they reached their hostess. After a moment's pause, one of the women, skin pink and purple, dismounted and removed a large skull-shaped helm.

"Greetings from Nand, Queen Roethye. I am Karapan Morvarid, and I present to you our delegation, including Prince Daras of the house of Sasan."

Daras, a dark-blue-skinned man in his mid-twenties, inclined his head abruptly but respectfully.

[Reggiejam]

Travelling hundreds of thousands of miles to the backwater that was the Primus Imperium was not Lady Autumn's idea of a good time. In fact, it was farthest from it. She found the idea utterly distasteful and reminisced on the barbaric closeness and foul smell of Roethye when she'd come to the Masquerade for at least half of the journey. Duke Sand, by contrast, seemed excited or as excited as the odd little Spring Aeldir got. He was quiet with occasional bursts of commentary directed either at Autumn or the other dignitaries travelling with them, a few of the strange animals of Tir Xungla included, but there was an enthusiasm in his eyes that the silence could not mask. Autumn wasn't sure why he was so excited. They were coming here to negotiate a treaty with the Kingdom of Nand and its two staunch allies that would involve the turning over of Tir Gwydr where Sand ruled to their control and possibly to meet with the rogue Chesuka to come to terms regarding Luska proper and its possible relinquishment from Aeldir control, or at least direct control. Autumn recognized the value in both exchanges both direct and indirect but she was not excited about the prospect, only tense.

Her recent foray into military matters had been an odd thing. Unlike the Summer Aeldir the Aeldir of Autumn were a far less overtly confrontational bunch. While they might certainly steal your sword and shield and leave you to flounder as a Summer warrior pin cushioned you from afar they were not experts at the pin cushioning. This matter in the Neck involving the complete conquest of Luska had made her more acutely aware of the balance between military might and diplomatic sway. The Aeldir had just fought two wars simultaneously and won them both without more than a rustling in the bushes by Hess Tannan. The Rose Demesne, the land outside Tir Amser under the Rose Courts' control, was growing rapidly as was their military and that made them an easy target for eager and jealous crusaders. The negotiations to take place here would be especially important in maintaining the majority of the land now situated within the Demesne.

The party travelled by longship up the coast from Tir Xungla, and then down the little inlet that separated Çangalamin and the mainland. Stopping in a port in Ambrose they had continued on foot. Reaching the border between Ambrose and the Primus Imperium the delegation had halted and an Autumn runner was sent to contact the local Polemarchos with a great stock of valuable Roses and other Aeldir treasures and a request that the Aeldir be allowed to make a semi permanent camp within his territory, well removed from any of the local settlements. Lady Autumn suspected the High Queen would not attempt to have her killed or banished as a show of betterment but she had rather not risk it and in truth she hoped in part she would be denied entry that she might avoid smelling the Queen again and she had become well acquainted with the notion of revenge in recent years thanks to a particularly loathsome guest in Tir Amser.

Instead of the whole party continuing forward Duke Sand and the delegates the Spring Court had been invited to send would continue on into the Imperium proper to greet their hosts and request entry of the Lady Autumn. And so it was that the small party of Spring Aeldir and Salvax continued on northwards into the Primal capital. Their leg of the journey was another week all its own as they wound through the deep valleys and peaked mountains to arrive at the city. Being led to the High Queen, the small delegation looking even more like pointy eared children here among so many humans, they bowed respectfully and Duke Sand spoke in greeting.

"Greetings oh glorious High Queen Roethye of the Primus Imperium. We greet you as representatives of the Rose Courts of the Aeldir," Sand's voice was cool and low, with the cadence of a whisper though it carried with greater volume.

[HalfTangible]

Avonlea

High Queen Thalia Darkthorne and her party arrived at Valkyrie at length, they had endured the climb up to the city patiently. They had traveled for weeks to attend the Tournament, what more was three days in the mountain passes. The women of Avonlea were dressed for travel in boots and short dresses made of practical pleated leather that afforded them ease of movement, fair hair braided and either hung at their backs, or wound around their heads like a crown. Thalia had been surprised upon arriving at Primus Territory that the realm was also seemingly ruled by the women, as her own was. Men smiled at her shyly as she rode past, and then went on with their tasks. Some women smiled, and some gazed at them curiously, or with hostility, weapons pulled and at the ready. Her own party was comprised solely of women, bar one, including her small contingent of loyal guards who flanked the queen. Her handmaidens rode with her and behind her, exclaiming at the beautiful mountain views, or waving at a particularly handsome man and giggling.

The one male exception was a small dark haired boy who rode in Thalia's lap quietly. His big blue eyes took in the sights of their travels carefully and solemnly as the world continued to flow by him, in a steady stream of new sensory stimulation, the sights of the ocean and the colorful markets, the sounds of people all around him laughing and talking and sometimes arguing, the smells of livestock and exotic foods and spices, all taken in by the child to be filed away for later, for when he could comprehend his experiences. Thalia ran her fingers through her son's dark unruly hair absentmindedly, looking thoughtfully out across the mountain vista as they crossed the bridge to the imposing city proper.

She had come for the Tournament, yes, but she had also come to relinquish her child to his Father as the Prophetess Council had decreed must be so. Her delicate brow knitted together, unhappy with the decree, but bred to respect their decisions. She thought then of Nyle's father, strong and handsome. A leader, respected by his fellows. That could be Nyle's future with his father's people, with her, it would be shipyard work at best. She scowled to think of him ending up in a future queen's harem. The Council was right, of course. As they were in all things. She took in a deep breath to clear her mind, inhaling the clear mountain air along with her child's sweet scent, smiling sadly, a lump suddenly filling her throat as she blinked away tears.

"M'Lady?" Her Handmaiden Helia questioned her as she handed her a handkerchief to dry her eyes.

"I'm only fatigued from the travel, thank you." Thalia shook her head in denial of anything the matter and dried her eyes as they crossed the great bridge and entered the city. Her face was clear as they reached the city gate and were brought to meet High Queen Roethye.

"May I present to you, High Queen Thalia Darkthorne of Avonlea." Helia presented her queen in her high musical voice, clear as a clarion bell.

"It is an honor to be welcomed to your lands M'Lady." Thalia curtsied only slightly awkwardly, as she still held her babe in her arms.

"We come bearing gifts for our hosts," Thalia gestured to her maidens who came forward with several small, rectangular boxes.

"Open one, please." She instructed the girl nearest her fellow High Queen, who ceremoniously opened the small intricately carved box which was revealed to hold several neatly rolled cigars.

"A recent acquisition, M'Lady, tobacco, smooth and fine for smoking, if you please." Thalia awaited response patiently while noticing the resemblance the younger woman bore to the queen, this must be her daughter, she thought to herself, the resemblance is striking.

Link (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20140585&postcount=261)


Participant: Nineve Blackpool
Realm: Avonlea
Regions: 4
Bonus: 0 High Queen Roethye held out her hand to greet them. "Valkyrie and Primus welcome you and your people. 'Tis an honor."

Roethye blinked at the tobacco as it was handed to her. She did take the gift (she didn't want to be rude) but... what did 'smoking' mean in this context? Were they a form of incense? They seemed the wrong shape for thaIS THAT A BABY?!

"It's adorable!"

Breydice groaned and facepalmed. Apparently this was not an uncommon occurrence.


With the war in Havanand, few of the best Nanda soldiers could be spared for an event like this, despite the opportunity to show off their prowess in front of an international audience. Indeed, some of the senior officers were concerned that the Grand Army was beginning to acquire a dismal reputation abroad in the face of its recent military reverses, notwithstanding the genius of Terit and that the setbacks had at least come against Nanda opponents. Some setrapa still muttered that they should have pressed ahead against the Prevaz, insisting that one Nend was worth multiple foreigners, though the prince regent was apparently too sensible to give that much credence.

The choice of representatives had been a fraught one, with most of the senior generals and setrapa wanting to miss neither the potential glory in Havanand or the opportunity to exhibit their skills and win renown abroad. Added to that were the rumours that Primus was a land which did not respect men, and Kusal had never felt the absence of an adult woman in the royal family more keenly. Hannah was too young to lead a delegation, and while he had briefly considered requesting that his wife attend, she was in Krozna, and her work there was too important for her to leave. And yet the idea of sending a delegation abroad with no royal representation seemed dangerous, for much the same reasons it had eight years previously.

When he heard about the route, however, that changed things significantly. The number of officers of army and state willing to undertake the journey plummeted once they appreciated that it would involve a trek through mountain tunnels, and had left Kusal with something of a freer hand when it came to selecting the delegates.

The party which arrived in Primus comprised a fairly large group of men and women, mounted on the backs of the large reptiles for which their homeland was known. They were mostly olive-skinned and garbed in a beautiful and sumptuous array of coloured silks, but with a small handful of those which displayed the brightly-coloured skin more typical of the Nanda. These seemed to be the warriors of the group, their bare skin red and orange, and carrying spears, shields and swords. There were a couple more, near-naked on the backs of their steeds, with yet further colours, pink, light purple and blue, looking uneasily around them as they made their way through the underground passages.

A steward attempted to take their minds off it by reading the information on Primus that had been left for them in Ambrose, which went into a great deal of detail about the military of the so-called Imperium and the training of its members.

"It sounds like a recipe for lots of dead soldiers," one of the officers sniffed. "Who will till the fields, build their houses, make their shoes, when the cream of every generation is sent off to die?"

"It seems they put no value on anything except military service," another offered. "Can you imagine my brother in the army? By all accounts he's been a success in Krozna, but had we sent him off to war he'd have been rotting in the ground years ago."

When they eventually reached the city they rode through the streets until they reached their hostess. After a moment's pause, one of the women, skin pink and purple, dismounted and removed a large skull-shaped helm.

"Greetings from Nand, Queen Roethye. I am Karapan Morvarid, and I present to you our delegation, including Prince Daras of the house of Sasan."

Daras, a dark-blue-skinned man in his mid-twenties, inclined his head abruptly but respectfully.

Roethye raised her eyebrow as the lizards approached. Not what she'd personally use as a mount, but certainly more interesting than a horse.

She felt slight disappointment as the Prince kept silent and someone else spoke in his place. People who heard about Primus tended to assume that men there were lower than scum. That was somewhat like claiming that the entire Aeldir Court was formed up of schizophrenic megalomaniacs high on mushrooms - it was an understandable assumption, but ultimately incorrect, especially for foreigners like this. Primus kept its men in a subservient position because that was what men were best at: serving a woman.

That didn't mean individual men were not worthy of respect or had no accomplishments worth noting, it simply wasn't the norm. Roethye certainly didn't hate men just for being men! She had plenty of male friends.

... Granted, none of them had blue skin. That was novel.

"Welcome to Valkyrie, Karapan. Primus is glad to recieve Nand's dignitaries." Roethye nodded. "Will the Prince not speak for himself, then? It's fine if not, the Aima don't talk much either."

Breydice bowed at the hip directly towards Daras. A prince, eh? Not a bad one either. She was already wed (not that she cared, but foreigners apparently did. Too bad) but neither Phelnia nor Varadia were, and they were of proper age now. Maybe a bit older of a man than they'd hoped, but mid-twenties wasn't too far out of their range...


Travelling hundreds of thousands of miles to the backwater that was the Primus Imperium was not Lady Autumn's idea of a good time. In fact, it was farthest from it. She found the idea utterly distasteful and reminisced on the barbaric closeness and foul smell of Roethye when she'd come to the Masquerade for at least half of the journey. Duke Sand, by contrast, seemed excited or as excited as the odd little Spring Aeldir got. He was quiet with occasional bursts of commentary directed either at Autumn or the other dignitaries travelling with them, a few of the strange animals of Tir Xungla included, but there was an enthusiasm in his eyes that the silence could not mask. Autumn wasn't sure why he was so excited. They were coming here to negotiate a treaty with the Kingdom of Nand and its two staunch allies that would involve the turning over of Tir Gwydr where Sand ruled to their control and possibly to meet with the rogue Chesuka to come to terms regarding Luska proper and its possible relinquishment from Aeldir control, or at least direct control. Autumn recognized the value in both exchanges both direct and indirect but she was not excited about the prospect, only tense.

Her recent foray into military matters had been an odd thing. Unlike the Summer Aeldir the Aeldir of Autumn were a far less overtly confrontational bunch. While they might certainly steal your sword and shield and leave you to flounder as a Summer warrior pin cushioned you from afar they were not experts at the pin cushioning. This matter in the Neck involving the complete conquest of Luska had made her more acutely aware of the balance between military might and diplomatic sway. The Aeldir had just fought two wars simultaneously and won them both without more than a rustling in the bushes by Hess Tannan. The Rose Demesne, the land outside Tir Amser under the Rose Courts' control, was growing rapidly as was their military and that made them an easy target for eager and jealous crusaders. The negotiations to take place here would be especially important in maintaining the majority of the land now situated within the Demesne.

The party travelled by longship up the coast from Tir Xungla, and then down the little inlet that separated Çangalamin and the mainland. Stopping in a port in Ambrose they had continued on foot. Reaching the border between Ambrose and the Primus Imperium the delegation had halted and an Autumn runner was sent to contact the local Polemarchos with a great stock of valuable Roses and other Aeldir treasures and a request that the Aeldir be allowed to make a semi permanent camp within his territory, well removed from any of the local settlements. Lady Autumn suspected the High Queen would not attempt to have her killed or banished as a show of betterment but she had rather not risk it and in truth she hoped in part she would be denied entry that she might avoid smelling the Queen again and she had become well acquainted with the notion of revenge in recent years thanks to a particularly loathsome guest in Tir Amser.

Instead of the whole party continuing forward Duke Sand and the delegates the Spring Court had been invited to send would continue on into the Imperium proper to greet their hosts and request entry of the Lady Autumn. And so it was that the small party of Spring Aeldir and Salvax continued on northwards into the Primal capital. Their leg of the journey was another week all its own as they wound through the deep valleys and peaked mountains to arrive at the city. Being led to the High Queen, the small delegation looking even more like pointy eared children here among so many humans, they bowed respectfully and Duke Sand spoke in greeting.

"Greetings oh glorious High Queen Roethye of the Primus Imperium. We greet you as representatives of the Rose Courts of the Aeldir," Sand's voice was cool and low, with the cadence of a whisper though it carried with greater volume.

High Queen Roethye had learned of the Aeldir's presence in her lands before they'd actually arrived, of course - a queen worth the jewels on her crown did not let a group who had proven so untrustworthy have free reign in her lands. And when she'd learned that Lady Autumn was not among them, she had laughed uproariously, and not just because she was tipsy at the time. The Aeldir 'diplomats' had so little spine that their leader could not show her face at a Grand Tournament? Truly? Was Lady Spring the only woman among their leaders?

In truth, Roethye had little interest in being petty over something that had happened a decade ago. Had the Lady Autumn deigned to show her face, she would have been welcomed as any of the dignitaries. Had she refused to send anyone, Roethye would have rolled her eyes and moved on. She didn't expect respect from the coward anyway.

But sending someone else to speak with your opponents in your place? Travelling across thousands of miles until reaching the lands right before the one you were actually invited to, and then sending a man ahead of you? Betraying your own cowardice to this extent?

Oh this was just glorious.

What next?

None of these thoughts showed on her face as she spread her arms in welcome. "Always good to see the Spring Court and..." She stopped, raising an eyebrow at Duke Sand. "...Apologies, but I don't believe I know you. How would you prefer to be addressed?"

[Mary_Sue]

High Queen Roethye held out her hand to greet them. "Valkyrie and Primus welcome you and your people. 'Tis an honor."

Roethye blinked at the tobacco as it was handed to her. She did take the gift (she didn't want to be rude) but... what did 'smoking' mean in this context? Were they a form of incense? They seemed the wrong shape for thaIS THAT A BABY?!

"It's adorable!"

Breydice groaned and facepalmed. Apparently this was not an uncommon occurrence.

Thalia smiled, delighted at the admiration directed towards her offspring, who gazed seriously at Queen Roethye with his wide blue eyes while he chewed on his fist.

"Thank you Queen Roethye, he is my firstborn, named Nyle." She tickled his tummy at an attempt to get him to smile, but he was steadfast in his gaze, switching his hand from his mouth to pull at his mother's braid.

"He's such a serious boy." Thalia smiled ruefully,

"Would you like to hold him?" She carefully peeled his hand away from her hair and tucked it behind her ear and out of reach.

[QuintonBeck]

[Jade Coalition]

Roethye had grown very tense at the mention of the old empire. "... Primus can certainly understand wishing to avoid a dark past." Her free hand clenched into a fist. "And wishing it had never occurred..."

She looked at Leonard directly when he brought up religion. "Primus doesn't have much interest in spirituality - we're warriors, not mystics. There's a persistent belief in some of the villages that heroes that are never acknowledged are reborn into positions of privilege - royalty, nobility, merchants, etc - but there's no serious organization and no other group holds a presence worth mentioning. There might be Doctrine followers here, though I do not know of them if so. If you go further south you might have more luck."

"A pity," Leonard answered moving the conversation past the lack of overlap within religion, "A warrior culture, eh? A dangerous path to walk if our history before the Coalition is to be learned from. Though I have not seen rebels in my journey here, perhaps owing to the...docility of your men? Are they slaves? The collars and leashes certainly give the impression. Slavery has not been implemented in such a widespread application within the Coalition for some years. More and more citizens, less and less slaves."

[HalfTangible]

Thalia smiled, delighted at the admiration directed towards her offspring, who gazed seriously at Queen Roethye with his wide blue eyes while he chewed on his fist.

"Thank you Queen Roethye, he is my firstborn, named Nyle." She tickled his tummy at an attempt to get him to smile, but he was steadfast in his gaze, switching his hand from his mouth to pull at his mother's braid.

"He's such a serious boy." Thalia smiled ruefully,

"Would you like to hold him?" She carefully peeled his hand away from her hair and tucked it behind her ear and out of reach.

"Oh! Um... yes. Yes I would." She held out her arms and took the baby. She rocked it in her arms as if he were her own, comforting and with a small serene smile. It was evident that she had held many infants before.

"Ah, I love babies." Roethye smiled. "So adorable, so innocent..."

"Is that why you have a new one every cha-"

"Not in front of the dignitaries, daughter. I enjoy a good ribbing as much as the next queen, but some things are best kept private."

Breydice rolled her eyes. Roethye looked up to Thalia. "What's his name? Is he your heir?" Her smile faltered. "... Come to think of it, why did you bring a baby to the top of a mountain in a foreign land? Guide or no, getting to this place is hardly a safe trip to the market."


"A pity," Leonard answered moving the conversation past the lack of overlap within religion, "A warrior culture, eh? A dangerous path to walk if our history before the Coalition is to be learned from. Though I have not seen rebels in my journey here, perhaps owing to the...docility of your men? Are they slaves? The collars and leashes certainly give the impression. Slavery has not been implemented in such a widespread application within the Coalition for some years. More and more citizens, less and less slaves."

"Men in our lands are given collars to indicate that they are married. So yes, they are basically slaves." She smirked.

"... All jokes aside," She continued, her smile leaving her face as she stopped walking at the gates to the palace, "You have seen no rebels because there are none to see. None with any real power, anyway."

"The history of Primus before the Imperium was a time of horrors beyond reckoning. I'll spare you the details, but none of them had to do with war itself - they existed because we tried too hard to avoid it. To terrify each other out of warfare. My grandmother was an advocate for peace through most of her life, and in exchange she-." She stopped. "... That part's not important. It drove her mad. What matters is what her daughter did."

Roethye's fist clenched. "Cochradice Primus - my mother - decided that the best way to achieve peace was to subsume and dominate through war. So she did. Every noble house we have now - putting aside the fact that several have lost their names to those who challenged them - was once a clan, tribe or self-proclaimed 'kingdom' within the Highback mountains. Cochradice found them, beat them into submission and made them her allies where she could, a smoking ruin where she could not. She gave them the lands she conquered, leaving only Valkyrie for herself. Many plotted against her, and so they died."

"Our culture is built around violence because at the end of the day, you will always have conflict of some description. Ours is built around controlling it as best we can. If you desire to settle a grievance, you duel your opponent with honor and the winner takes the spoils. If you're desperate for money, you challenge a richer woman to a duel and take her title. There is still death, theft, mugging and such, of course, you can't end that. But everyone has a weapon and some military experience, so it's never entirely one-sided, so it's usually easier to just have an honorable fight to first blood."

"We have no rebels because there is no point in a violent rebellion. If you need something, you challenge whoever has it. If you want to kill someone, you challenge them. If you've accused of a crime you didn't commit, you can challenge your judge. (That's how House Aske formed, actually)" She tapped a finger against her moonsilver breastplate. "The only title you cannot take through a duel is that of royalty, because it must always be clear who is in charge when conflict arises. But for the most part, I delegate. Had Eventus been welcome into your protected land, or had we conquered it as normal, their house would run the affairs of that territory."

"On the subject of rebellion," She raised an eyebrow as she gestured for the palace gates to open, "Your surprise at the lack of one leads me to conclude the Jade Coalition deals with infighting often, is that correct? I take it your soldiers' multiple flags are not just for show. "

[Kasanip]

　Luska Resistance Movement
Chesuka and Choko; Alysha and Washington, Mevo and Solomon

The three young ladies from Luska had arrived at the land to the far west, called Primus.
Their boat was left in a cove and well camouflaged. Although Alysha had complained, it was a necessary action. As it had been two years since the surprise attack by the Aeldir.
Chesuka had thought about burning the boat. In that way, there was no return from here, she had thought.
But her friends where here. She was Luskan. She was a person of twilight. She couldn't abandon her friends to the fate. However, she relied on them, too. Mevo's passion and skill had been important to convince that they should go.
"You can't leave me behind!" It was the angry yet heartwarming declaration of a close friend.
Alysha was willing to go when Chesuka had asked. No undine had traveled so far. Only Alysha could be relied upon as a friend, and Washington had easily convinced her, too.

Traveling through the mountains and caves, it was as far into a wide land that Chesuka had ever gone. Even Choko was surprised by the many new sights and sounds. However, the villagers were curious.
They offered knives, and Chesuka refused them politely.
Of course, then the next village offered them knives again.
Chesuka refused them politely.
After the third time, with exasperation Mevo grabbed three knives.
"Thank you!" She said loudly.
"If you don't want them, then I'll carry them." She muttered. Solomon perched silently on her shoulder with such a seagull's ruffled expression.
Alysha shrugged.
"It can't be helped. Although we have knives, they can't see them." She explained.
Chesuka nodded.
"I suppose it is nice to have this distraction. Oh! Look at that! the knives are actually quite high-quality!" She said with appreciation. In this way it was proudly worn over her stomach.

In this way it was finally arrived at Valkyrie. And then it was another three days to climb the mountain.

As it was reached the entrance, Alysha whispered with concern.
"I don't understand your plan."
"Let's enjoy the festival. I think we will have a good meeting, but it may take some time to learn. Anyway, I hope they will allow us in." Chesuka continued with charm to the gate.
"Wait, didn't you meet their leader?" Mevo asked.
"No, I don't think so. There were so many people at that event, before the birds and ghosts." Chesuka said. Alysha frowned.
"I don't think I saw them, unless it was that large ship that caused those waves when we arrived."
Mevo looked horrified. For a seagull clan, such was the quick mood around a Raccoon dog priestess and not enthusiastic Otter clan.
"Isn't it dangerous?" She asked. Solomon squawked in agreement.
Chesuka turned with a smile.
"Of course. But we have to go forward, isn't that the style of Seagull clan?"
Mevo growled.
"Of course!" She said, to hurry to follow.
In this way, the three Luskans, wearing their headbands, tattooed faces, with their animals and the beautiful hand-weaving robes and coats and worn boots arrived.

[Reggiejam]

High Queen Roethye had learned of the Aeldir's presence in her lands before they'd actually arrived, of course - a queen worth the jewels on her crown did not let a group who had proven so untrustworthy have free reign in her lands. And when she'd learned that Lady Autumn was not among them, she had laughed uproariously, and not just because she was tipsy at the time. The Aeldir 'diplomats' had so little spine that their leader could not show her face at a Grand Tournament? Truly? Was Lady Spring the only woman among their leaders?

In truth, Roethye had little interest in being petty over something that had happened a decade ago. Had the Lady Autumn deigned to show her face, she would have been welcomed as any of the dignitaries. Had she refused to send anyone, Roethye would have rolled her eyes and moved on. She didn't expect respect from the coward anyway.

But sending someone else to speak with your opponents in your place? Travelling across thousands of miles until reaching the lands right before the one you were actually invited to, and then sending a man ahead of you? Betraying your own cowardice to this extent?

Oh this was just glorious.

What next?

None of these thoughts showed on her face as she spread her arms in welcome. "Always good to see the Spring Court and..." She stopped, raising an eyebrow at Duke Sand. "...Apologies, but I don't believe I know you. How would you prefer to be addressed?"

Sand was honestly a bit taken aback to be addressed separately from the Spring delegates. He was a Spring Aeldir himself, albeit his clothing didn't match the girl's with his preference for what was considered decades out of style fashion relating to the time he and his boys were shipwrecked on Tir Gwydr. Still, he couldn't imagine Roethye kept up with Aeldir fashion and judging by her own butch appearance it seemed that if she did she did so at the expense of keeping up with her native fashion trends, or perhaps that was simply the style in Primus, who knew what barbarians wore.

"My outer name is Duke Sand, I have lead the Spring Boys of Tir Gwydr for nearly four decades. The Lady Autumn sent me ahead to greet you and announce the Lady's coming, if she will be permitted entrance. We of the Aeldir were unsure of the customs of Primus though it seems your royalty does not stand on pomp or circumstance to announce its rulers but simply dispenses right to their introducing themselves. An efficient use of time, I must say."

[HalfTangible]

Sand was honestly a bit taken aback to be addressed separately from the Spring delegates. He was a Spring Aeldir himself, albeit his clothing didn't match the girl's with his preference for what was considered decades out of style fashion relating to the time he and his boys were shipwrecked on Tir Gwydr. Still, he couldn't imagine Roethye kept up with Aeldir fashion and judging by her own butch appearance it seemed that if she did she did so at the expense of keeping up with her native fashion trends, or perhaps that was simply the style in Primus, who knew what barbarians wore.

"My outer name is Duke Sand, I have lead the Spring Boys of Tir Gwydr for nearly four decades. The Lady Autumn sent me ahead to greet you and announce the Lady's coming, if she will be permitted entrance. We of the Aeldir were unsure of the customs of Primus though it seems your royalty does not stand on pomp or circumstance to announce its rulers but simply dispenses right to their introducing themselves. An efficient use of time, I must say."

Roethye stared at him for a few moments. She then pinched her nose and lowered her head.

She was wrong, this wasn't glorious. It was just sad.

"Afraid of being executed, yet she sends an entire party of Spring in her place... Unbelievable... I'm not going to beg her to respond to my invitation. She can get her sorry ass up here or cower in Ambrose, I don't care."


　Luska Resistance Movement
Chesuka and Choko; Alysha and Washington, Mevo and Solomon

The three young ladies from Luska had arrived at the land to the far west, called Primus.
Their boat was left in a cove and well camouflaged. Although Alysha had complained, it was a necessary action. As it had been two years since the surprise attack by the Aeldir.
Chesuka had thought about burning the boat. In that way, there was no return from here, she had thought.
But her friends where here. She was Luskan. She was a person of twilight. She couldn't abandon her friends to the fate. However, she relied on them, too. Mevo's passion and skill had been important to convince that they should go.
"You can't leave me behind!" It was the angry yet heartwarming declaration of a close friend.
Alysha was willing to go when Chesuka had asked. No undine had traveled so far. Only Alysha could be relied upon as a friend, and Washington had easily convinced her, too.

Traveling through the mountains and caves, it was as far into a wide land that Chesuka had ever gone. Even Choko was surprised by the many new sights and sounds. However, the villagers were curious.
They offered knives, and Chesuka refused them politely.
Of course, then the next village offered them knives again.
Chesuka refused them politely.
After the third time, with exasperation Mevo grabbed three knives.
"Thank you!" She said loudly.
"If you don't want them, then I'll carry them." She muttered. Solomon perched silently on her shoulder with such a seagull's ruffled expression.
Alysha shrugged.
"It can't be helped. Although we have knives, they can't see them." She explained.
Chesuka nodded.
"I suppose it is nice to have this distraction. Oh! Look at that! the knives are actually quite high-quality!" She said with appreciation. In this way it was proudly worn over her stomach.

In this way it was finally arrived at Valkyrie. And then it was another three days to climb the mountain.

As it was reached the entrance, Alysha whispered with concern.
"I don't understand your plan."
"Let's enjoy the festival. I think we will have a good meeting, but it may take some time to learn. Anyway, I hope they will allow us in." Chesuka continued with charm to the gate.
"Wait, didn't you meet their leader?" Mevo asked.
"No, I don't think so. There were so many people at that event, before the birds and ghosts." Chesuka said. Alysha frowned.
"I don't think I saw them, unless it was that large ship that caused those waves when we arrived."
Mevo looked horrified. For a seagull clan, such was the quick mood around a Raccoon dog priestess and not enthusiastic Otter clan.
"Isn't it dangerous?" She asked. Solomon squawked in agreement.
Chesuka turned with a smile.
"Of course. But we have to go forward, isn't that the style of Seagull clan?"
Mevo growled.
"Of course!" She said, to hurry to follow.
In this way, the three Luskans, wearing their headbands, tattooed faces, with their animals and the beautiful hand-weaving robes and coats and worn boots arrived.

By the time the Luskans arrived, the people of Primus had gotten over their unease with foreign dignitaries. The three ladies found themselves the admiration of all they passed. They had been offered more than just knives: a tankard of brandy, a stout shield, a bag of gold. At one village they'd stopped in, they'd even been offered men to take home with them.

As they approached the city, they would notice that the gates were already wide open. It seemed there would be no need to worry about being refused entrance...

---

Breydice frowned as the tattooed women approached and whispered to her mother. "I didn't think Luska would be sending anyone."

"Perhaps they wish to be treated as royalty in exile." Roethye mused. "I would be happy to oblige. I do enjoy ticking off the Aeldir."

"Is that all?"

"Until I need them for something more useful, yes. If they don't, I'm going to have them take one of our men home. No big loss if he dies, but giving them a strong tie to our nation is a good idea. It's nice to have friendly voices on the international stage."

"That's small thinking." Breydice speculated. "If we convinced them to take up a noble title here before they reclaimed their nation..."

"... then we'd have a claim over whatever nation their descendants form. Meaning we could have an ally, or even an entire vassal." Roethye grinned and put an arm around her daughter. "Smart. Are you sure you're my daughter?"

"Yes, though I understand the confusion."

---

High Queen Roethye and High Princess Breydice met the painted, well-dressed foreigners at the front gate as they had all the dignitaries. Roethye held her arms open for an embrace. "You're from Luska, if I'm not mistaken. I didn't think you would be coming! Welcome, welcome."

Breydice glanced at the knife Chesuka was openly carrying, then looked her in the eye. "A generally safe hike, then. Good to see."

As a side note, being handed a knife in Primus is an insult. The implication is that the three young Lukan ladies were immature children that didn't have the strength to wield a bigger weapon.

I find that hilarious.

[Gengy]

There were many curiosities and unusual things about the Spring Court delegates. For one, the Spring Court girl that was sent was letting this Duke Sand boy from Tir Gwydr lead for the moment. Though that may have been because of the other major curiosity: She was riding on top of a white and black striped tiger, that was walking along side an elephant with large brown spots. And it seemed like she was talking to the animals.

Salvax. The Ambrose Ascendency were probably the ones more familiar with the unusual race of animals that claimed they were people... but when you have a group of animals whom want to trade you for cloth so they can have scarves or hats, there is certainly something unusual about those animals. The fact that there were some Aeldir that could speak with them was in itself strange.

Owena had not been very important in Glaw Novo. She was a friend of a friend of Aleuta; when Aleuta had been sent away, Owena knew no one else near Lady Kellianth. When Lady Spring had said that Tir Xungla was open to any Aeldir intrepid enough to go there, Owena had jumped at the chance, and was now very important to Lady Kellianth as the premiere translator for the Salvax, and also helping to work with the Salvax Ri in discussing the integration of the colony into Aeldir governance. As a whole, the Salvax respected strength, and it was taking some very fine and careful adjustment for the race of tigers and elephants to listen to the smallest of Aeldir. So far, it seemed like the Salvax Ri had explained that the Spring Court Aeldir were to be treated as his cubs; and you don't say no to your boss's kids.

Owena had requested that she be allowed to bring Pride and Prejudice - the tiger and the elephant - along when the courts visiting this Primus Tournament, and graciously, her request had been granted. Owena thought that perhaps, Lady Autumn - the true leader of this expedition - found the Salvax amusing pets, but if that was true, Owena was certainly not the one to correct her. The Salvax were not pets. They were guardians. Owena had watched Prejudice, her female elephant Salvax friend, stomp several nasty jungle creatures flat with finality. And Pride... well, Pride was a gorgeous example of a male tiger Salvax, and he was also the first of the Salvax that Owena had been able to hear. It was like that when speaking with the Salvax. They spoke, almost like regular animals, but there was a... subtext. A second sound, almost. Owena had learned it from the Salvax Ri, and picked it up slowly, but now she was among the best of the Aeldir these days to do translations. It was like listening for an emotion, rather than the word.

She stood back, and let Duke Sand do the talking now, and just... listened. She was also looking to see if Aleuta were here.

[Mary_Sue]

"Oh! Um... yes. Yes I would." She held out her arms and took the baby. She rocked it in her arms as if he were her own, comforting and with a small serene smile. It was evident that she had held many infants before.

"Ah, I love babies." Roethye smiled. "So adorable, so innocent..."

"Is that why you have a new one every cha-"

"Not in front of the dignitaries, daughter. I enjoy a good ribbing as much as the next queen, but some things are best kept private."

Breydice rolled her eyes. Roethye looked up to Thalia. "What's his name? Is he your heir?" Her smile faltered. "... Come to think of it, why did you bring a baby to the top of a mountain in a foreign land? Guide or no, getting to this place is hardly a safe trip to the market."

"His name is Nyle. He is not my heir, no. Men do not hold positions of authority in my lands, it is why there are none with us." She smiled, the foreign queen's love for babies having endeared her to Thalia.

"I have brought Nyle so that he may be introduced to his father. He is not of Primus, but another land. I am confident he will be here." Her smile faltered a bit, not wishing to reveal her child's father before he himself knew of his son's existence.

"If you would like, my handmaiden will light a cigar for you and your daughter to try." Eager to change the subject from Nyle's father, she took the chance to demonstrate her gift. Cigar smoking was not as fashionable in Avonlea as it was in Coventry, the region of their origin, but still, they had found some favor for their aromatic, vaguely floral scent. The box they were held in had been carved with the trappings of war, swords, shields and helms all decorated the sides and lid.


Later

Helia had been searching the great stone city for over an hour before she spotted the man her queen had tasked her with finding. Relief loosened the tension in her breast as she approached him from a fair distance. It was early in the morning, Valkyrie was still sleepy as a heavy mountain mist hung low over the marketplace where groggy merchants worked to get their wares displayed before the day's bustle began. His broad shouldered figure was unmistakable, and he was much as she remembered from when they'd met two years ago. She could see why her queen had been so taken with him, he was very different than the men of her harem she was accustomed to, soft and pretty. A bit like spoiled children really. Helia's nose reflexively wrinkled in distaste. She was not alone in wishing for a more traditional man and wife arrangement in her land, but those wishes were the barest of whispers, spoken only to the very most trusted friends lest the Prophetess Council think she rebellious, and lose her place by her queen's side.

The man's back was to her, and he had not heard the soft pad of her slippers over the cold stones as she neared him. She reached out her hand to tap him on the shoulder,

"M'Lord Maldarr, I believe?" She curstied to him and continued,

"My queen, Thalia Darkthorne of Avonlea would like to see you, the matter is urgent, though nothing to be alarmed with." A small smile flickered across her lips, she supposed many men might be alarmed at learning they were a father over a year after the child was born.

"If you would like to follow me, I can take you to Avonlea's quarters and to the queen." Helia regarded the man calmly, trying to still her face. This was not her secret to give away.

[PepperP.]

[Ambrose Ascendancy]

"Oho, don't be shy~" She purred as they hugged.

Breydice looked to Belinda and rolled her eyes. It seemed even amongst bloodthirsty warrior women, mothers embarrassed their daughters.

Roethye nodded as if nothing had happened. "Indeed. House Conferrus informs me that Secundus has taken well to these 'camels', and Primus is taking very well to the simurghs." She jabbed her thumb back at the coliseum. "They're not ready for combat yet, not by a long shot, but they handle chariots well enough and have made traveling Primus less than an utter nightmare."

"The brandy has also made a good impression." Breydice said calmly. "You know I personally don't touch the stuff, but those who do tell me it's high quality."

"I do hope you've found our own contributions to your liking?"

"We have, thank you. Calendula in particular is happy with the quality of your steel. I do wish to speak of expanding trade, possibly including Berrium in our route, if it can be mutually agreed as beneficial. There has been little activity out of their lands recently." He knew Primus held closer relations to their northern neighbors and hoped for news of the region.


Later


Later

Helia had been searching the great stone city for over an hour before she spotted the man her queen had tasked her with finding. Relief loosened the tension in her breast as she approached him from a fair distance. It was early in the morning, Valkyrie was still sleepy as a heavy mountain mist hung low over the marketplace where groggy merchants worked to get their wares displayed before the day's bustle began. His broad shouldered figure was unmistakable, and he was much as she remembered from when they'd met two years ago. She could see why her queen had been so taken with him, he was very different than the men of her harem she was accustomed to, soft and pretty. A bit like spoiled children really. Helia's nose reflexively wrinkled in distaste. She was not alone in wishing for a more traditional man and wife arrangement in her land, but those wishes were the barest of whispers, spoken only to the very most trusted friends lest the Prophetess Council think she rebellious, and lose her place by her queen's side.

The man's back was to her, and he had not heard the soft pad of her slippers over the cold stones as she neared him. She reached out her hand to tap him on the shoulder,

[COLOR="#AFEEEE"]"M'Lord Maldarr, I believe?" She curstied to him and continued,

"My queen, Thalia Darkthorne of Avonlea would like to see you, the matter is urgent, though nothing to be alarmed with." A small smile flickered across her lips, she supposed many men might be alarmed at learning they were a father over a year after the child was born.

"If you would like to follow me, I can take you to Avonlea's quarters and to the queen." Helia regarded the man calmly, trying to still her face. This was not her secret to give away.

Maldarr had awoken early and braved the brisk morning mountain air to buy some fresh bread from the baker who had only arrived at his stall moments before him. The fresh air cleared his mind that had been unsettled by a restless night's sleep, he had just indicated a sweet roll to the merchant when he felt a soft tap on his shoulder. Surprised, he turned around and was further surprised to see Thalia's handmaiden regarding him, and listened to what she had to say. He had of course considered that the Avonlean queen might be in attendance, but made no presumptions as to her regard for him. Nevertheless, he was pleased by her summons.

"Of course, we can go now. One moment." He turned back to the baker and amended his order,

"Two sweet rolls, please." He took the package with his baked goods and followed Helia as requested, a bit bemused by his nervous anxiety at seeing the beautiful queen again.


Elsewhere in Valkyrie

Derris had not had much time since his arrival in Valkyrie to see the sights of the city or tournament, he had been busy meeting with other delegations and seeing to the needs of his state. As he passed by the stadium, he could hear crowds cheering for the duels. He snorted as he recalled Arsen Rosso's fury at losing his first two matches. Derris would have like to claim glory for Ambrose, but he had to admit he enjoyed seeing the bold, cocky man taken down a peg. He pursed his lips in irritation in recollection of his adviser's notion to marry Alessa off to the brute in order to ensure his allegiance. He was mostly irritated that it was a good idea, and chagrined that Belinda would be furious.

He made his way inside the coliseum and went up a few flights into the stands in order to get above the dust that the combatants threw into the air. He spotted the seats reserved for the foreign leaders and made his way over, sitting besides a well-kept man of aging years wearing a green robe who was unknown to him. He nodded to the man cordially as he sat, and signaled a servant for a drink, his throat parched from the dusty air.

"Hello, I don't believe we have met. I am Protos Archigos Derris Asker, of Ambrose. From where do you hail?" He sipped his refreshing drink of cool water flavored with bits of citrus with pleasure, eyes on the duelists battling below. Derris was wearing a red jacket worn open over his bare torso, the jacket was decorated with military style epaulets, a look he had favored since his victory in Cangalamin.

[QuintonBeck]

The Jade Coalition

Leonard tried to contain his horror as best he could as the High Queen described the controlled anarchy that was the Primus Imperium. His mind was so filled with instincts of flight and danger given the description of the barbarous place he seemed to have found himself in that he only just caught the end of the High Queen's final sentence.

"Huh? Um, what? Oh, infighting? No, not since the Coalition formed, no," Leonard tried to compose himself as best he could and continued on, "There's bickering of course, all the factions have their own wants and needs and sometimes these conflict but hardly ever violently. Such violence is severely frowned upon," he paused before adding, "In the Coalition."

"We had a dark time ourselves after the collapse of the Old Empire, though the last decades under its rule are not fondly remembered either. The common people, farmers and craftsman and the like, they were forced to scrape by on their own while remnants of the Imperial Army bled them dry in tribute and coerced fealty. Thirty years ago the Krolzer, I suppose he might be called a King in the trade tongue, though I think Adjudicator might be more appropriate, well he formed the first Council. He went and gathered support from the common people and trained them to fight. They fought back the raider remnants but instead of killing them the Krolzer made them a deal, become protectors in exchange for the crops they had once stolen and bend themselves to the will of the Council, a civilian government. The deal worked and the Council grew and the system expanded. A new Council was formed as the territory grew to represent broader swaths of land than just villages and representatives of these factions are those who now sit on the primary Council though each faction maintains its own council as well."

"The former raiders integrated with the civil folk and loyalty came to fall to the faction, yet each faction knows it is at its strongest with the backing of the other factions through their cooperation in the Council and all respect the wisdom and guidance of the Krolzer. The people of the Jade Coalition are many and they are proud of their homes and their cultures but all recognize it is the Coalition that gives them strength and so cooperation and compromise is greatly rewarded and has proven time and again to be the most beneficial for the whole. The various factional loyalties are our greatest strength, however much they may at times appear to be a liability or a fractured weakness, assimilation and subjugation robs a realm of variety of thought and adaptability. Our proudly independent yet cooperating cultures allow us to adapt and overcome any situation."



Elsewhere in Valkyrie


Leonard had been watching the duels with a rather curious interest, noting the uninterrupted victory of the warriors he had traveled with. For all of Roethye's talk of a warrior culture it seemed that contributed little to their experience in a duel. Perhaps they fought in formation better than they did individually. The Coalition's military trained more often than it fought and when it was mobilized it was usually the navy scaring off some entrepreneuring band of sea raiders rather than the land forces themselves. He supposed that training had likely devolved into dueling tournaments at the various strongholds and forts over the past few years which likely explained their proficiency in personal combat here in the arena.

It was these thoughts that the foreign man interrupted and as Leonard looked over at the new arrival he felt the interruption would likely prove worthy. This man didn't appear to be Primal, noticeably lacking a collar or a castrated and beaten look in his eyes and his words confirmed it.

"Greetings to you Protos Archigos, I am Ambassador Leonard Stawski Wyrzwyk of the Jade Coalition north of the Primus Imperium, representing the Council and Krolzer Petyr I. Ambrose? Is that another southern realm? I'm afraid I haven't had much chance to meet anyone beyond the High Queen yet so my knowledge beyond the Jade Coalition and now Primus is limited."

[PepperP.]

Leonard had been watching the duels with a rather curious interest, noting the uninterrupted victory of the warriors he had traveled with. For all of Roethye's talk of a warrior culture it seemed that contributed little to their experience in a duel. Perhaps they fought in formation better than they did individually. The Coalition's military trained more often than it fought and when it was mobilized it was usually the navy scaring off some entrepreneuring band of sea raiders rather than the land forces themselves. He supposed that training had likely devolved into dueling tournaments at the various strongholds and forts over the past few years which likely explained their proficiency in personal combat here in the arena.

It was these thoughts that the foreign man interrupted and as Leonard looked over at the new arrival he felt the interruption would likely prove worthy. This man didn't appear to be Primal, noticeably lacking a collar or a castrated and beaten look in his eyes and his words confirmed it.

"Greetings to you Protos Archigos, I am Ambassador Leonard Stawski Wyrzwyk of the Jade Coalition north of the Primus Imperium, representing the Council and Krolzer Petyr I. Ambrose? Is that another southern realm? I'm afraid I haven't had much chance to meet anyone beyond the High Queen yet so my knowledge beyond the Jade Coalition and now Primus is limited."

Derris had heard of Primus's northern expansion being unexpectedly halted by a foreign power, it seems he had inadvertently found them. Or him, rather. The man spoke civilly and well, his clothes spoke of a non-militant culture, though they did well enough to give Roethye pause, and their duelist handled himself proficiently.

"Ambrose lies just east of Primus, though our capitol, Askerville is on the coast a fair ways from the border. Our lands reach just north of our capitol, south to border the Nanda and Prevaz, and east to include the lands across the Shining Straight." He spoke of his holdings matter of factly, to give the man an idea of the shape of the western continent's landscape.

"How far north do your lands reach, if I may ask." He did not wish to offend the man by prying, but was immensely curious about the heretofore unknown lands.

[Mary_Sue]

"We have, thank you. Calendula in particular is happy with the quality of your steel. I do wish to speak of expanding trade, possibly including Berrium in our route, if it can be mutually agreed as beneficial. There has been little activity out of their lands recently." He knew Primus held closer relations to their northern neighbors and hoped for news of the region.


Later


Maldarr had awoken early and braved the brisk morning mountain air to buy some fresh bread from the baker who had only arrived at his stall moments before him. The fresh air cleared his mind that had been unsettled by a restless night's sleep, he had just indicated a sweet roll to the merchant when he felt a soft tap on his shoulder. Surprised, he turned around and was further surprised to see Thalia's handmaiden regarding him, and listened to what she had to say. He had of course considered that the Avonlean queen might be in attendance, but made no presumptions as to her regard for him. Nevertheless, he was pleased by her summons.

"Of course, we can go now. One moment." He turned back to the baker and amended his order,

"Two sweet rolls, please." He took the package with his baked goods and followed Helia as requested, a bit bemused by his nervous anxiety at seeing the beautiful queen again.

Thalia sat in the quarters provided for her stay in the Primal capital, she had tried to find something with which to occupy her mind as she waited for Helia to return with Maldarr, but her mind would not be occupied. She fidgeted anxiously with the trim of her blue gown, her eyes often falling on Nyle who slept on the cushions next to her, dark curls framing his face that was relaxed in slumber. She jumped up as there was a soft rap on the door and straitened her gown and smoothed her hair nervously before cracking her door open and peering out. Seeing Helia, she opened wider and stepped back to allow her and the man who followed through.

"Thank you, Helia." Thalia nodded dismissively, and her maiden left her alone with Maldarr. She turned to face him, but found herself at a loss for words.

"Have you been well?" She managed lamely, fiddling with the blue pendant on a chain that adorned her neck.

[PepperP.]

Thalia sat in the quarters provided for her stay in the Primal capital, she had tried to find something with which to occupy her mind as she waited for Helia to return with Maldarr, but her mind would not be occupied. She fidgeted anxiously with the trim of her blue gown, her eyes often falling on Nyle who slept on the cushions next to her, dark curls framing his face that was relaxed in slumber. She jumped up as there was a soft rap on the door and straitened her gown and smoothed her hair nervously before cracking her door open and peering out. Seeing Helia, she opened wider and stepped back to allow her and the man who followed through.

"Thank you, Helia." Thalia nodded dismissively, and her maiden left her alone with Maldarr. She turned to face him, but found herself at a loss for words.

"Have you been well?" She managed lamely, fiddling with the blue pendant on a chain that adorned her neck.

Maldarr studied Thalia's delicately feminine features that he had remembered clearly from their last encounter, the small bow of her lips, her heavily lashed eyes that were downcast as she nervously toyed with the gem at her throat. He frowned, her worry seemed not to stem from his presence precisely, something else was clearly on her mind.

"I have been well, my queen. And what of you?" He asked gently, though her proximity was intoxicating and his eyes reflexively glanced to her bedcushions. He did a double take to see an infant lay on the queen's bed and his cheeks reddened, suddenly ashamed of his thoughts, as though she could read his desires. His thoughts did not linger on the child, nor did he inspect it in detail, his eyes trying to meet Thalia's in vain. Perplexed, he took her hands in his protectively,

"Please tell me what the matter is, whatever it is, I will help you fix it if I can." and gazed down at her with concern.

[Kasanip]

By the time the Luskans arrived, the people of Primus had gotten over their unease with foreign dignitaries. The three ladies found themselves the admiration of all they passed. They had been offered more than just knives: a tankard of brandy, a stout shield, a bag of gold. At one village they'd stopped in, they'd even been offered men to take home with them.

As they approached the city, they would notice that the gates were already wide open. It seemed there would be no need to worry about being refused entrance...

---

Breydice frowned as the tattooed women approached and whispered to her mother. "I didn't think Luska would be sending anyone."

"Perhaps they wish to be treated as royalty in exile." Roethye mused. "I would be happy to oblige. I do enjoy ticking off the Aeldir."

"Is that all?"

"Until I need them for something more useful, yes. If they don't, I'm going to have them take one of our men home. No big loss if he dies, but giving them a strong tie to our nation is a good idea. It's nice to have friendly voices on the international stage."

"That's small thinking." Breydice speculated. "If we convinced them to take up a noble title here before they reclaimed their nation..."

"... then we'd have a claim over whatever nation their descendants form. Meaning we could have an ally, or even an entire vassal." Roethye grinned and put an arm around her daughter. "Smart. Are you sure you're my daughter?"

"Yes, though I understand the confusion."

---

High Queen Roethye and High Princess Breydice met the painted, well-dressed foreigners at the front gate as they had all the dignitaries. Roethye held her arms open for an embrace. "You're from Luska, if I'm not mistaken. I didn't think you would be coming! Welcome, welcome."

Breydice glanced at the knife Chesuka was openly carrying, then looked her in the eye. "A generally safe hike, then. Good to see."

As a side note, being handed a knife in Primus is an insult. The implication is that the three young Lukan ladies were immature children that didn't have the strength to wield a bigger weapon.

I find that hilarious.

Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, and Roethye and Breydice

It was a surprise that the high queen had come to the front gate, but even if it was a surprised expression for Mevo, it was a usual raccoon dog smile from Chesuka.

They curtsied politely.
"Harmony between dawn and dusk!" Chesuka greeted with polite words.
"I apologize we are slow to arrive, but how could we refuse such an invitation?"
With a usual raccoon dog smile she met the gaze of Breydice.
"It was a long journey. Your lands are so large! However, we arrived safely. Your people are very generous!" She said, to indicate to the knives.
"However, I am sorry I should make the introductions. I am Chesuka of Luska. This is Choko. She is Alysha of Luska, and he is Washington. And she is-"
"Mevo, and this is Solomon." Mevo interrupted.
"We brought with us a gift for you." Chesuka continued, to reveal the gourd of wine.
"It is from before the dark times, so it is sweet." She explained, and offered it to the princess.

Maybe such a villagers thought the young ladies are rather immature and naive!
Luskans don't fight with bigger weapons because there isn't very much <Metal>. Such a knife they are happy.
Maybe they will be seen as childish in Primus, however! :smallsmile:

[Aedilred]

Roethye raised her eyebrow as the lizards approached. Not what she'd personally use as a mount, but certainly more interesting than a horse.

She felt slight disappointment as the Prince kept silent and someone else spoke in his place. People who heard about Primus tended to assume that men there were lower than scum. That was somewhat like claiming that the entire Aeldir Court was formed up of schizophrenic megalomaniacs high on mushrooms - it was an understandable assumption, but ultimately incorrect, especially for foreigners like this. Primus kept its men in a subservient position because that was what men were best at: serving a woman.

That didn't mean individual men were not worthy of respect or had no accomplishments worth noting, it simply wasn't the norm. Roethye certainly didn't hate men just for being men! She had plenty of male friends.

... Granted, none of them had blue skin. That was novel.

"Welcome to Valkyrie, Karapan. Primus is glad to recieve Nand's dignitaries." Roethye nodded. "Will the Prince not speak for himself, then? It's fine if not, the Aima don't talk much either."

Breydice bowed at the hip directly towards Daras. A prince, eh? Not a bad one either. She was already wed (not that she cared, but foreigners apparently did. Too bad) but neither Phelnia nor Varadia were, and they were of proper age now. Maybe a bit older of a man than they'd hoped, but mid-twenties wasn't too far out of their range...

Morvarid wished for a moment she had not removed her helm, so that her reaction might be hidden from the view of their hosts. She did not expect foreigners to understand the intricate system of precedence in Nand, but she was amused that this supposedly matriarchal culture immediately assumed that the man present was the most senior, and further that in this place royalty were expected to make their own introductions. Perhaps they were expected to wash their own clothes and scrub their own floors too. She would not have been who she was if it hadn't stung slightly, too: by every measure except by birth she outranked the prince, and while she had been given instructions that in certain - very limited - respects he had plenipotentiary powers, to all other intents and purposes she was in command, and the delegation leader. She bit back a response and simply turned back to the prince.

Daras looked momentarily confused, and glanced to the steward at his left. "Does she mean our queen?" he asked quietly, in the Nanda language.

"No, shaban; she said Aima, the blind bloodbeasts of Quartus."

"Ah." He turned back to the queen, more practised than Morvarid at hiding his emotions. "I speak when I have cause, your excellency. Though if I were to begin making my own introductions I should put a great number of fine people out of work. Thank you for your welcome, in any case."


Avonlea

A man claiming to represent the Kingdom of Nand presented himself at the quarters of the Avonlea delegation early on the second day. He was clad modestly, for a Nend, with a silk scarf and open-chested shirt, and breeches which reached all the way to the knee, as well as an elegant onion-shaped hat. He was one of those without an obvious "colour" to his skin, which was otherwise a lightly-bronzed olive. He smiled, revealing a gold tooth.

"Greetings, folk of the east," he said. "I am Reza of Nand; I present the compliments of the Queen and Prince Regent."


Aeldir

Seeing that some of the northern island folk had arrived, Daras made his way to them with a minimal guard, and waited as his herald made the necessary introduction, before politely enquiring if Lady Autumn had yet arrived.


Later

Daras found Morvarid at the arena, watching the preparations for the events, and took a seat next to her. "What are your thoughts?"

"Nothing good," she admitted. "Obviously the naval tournament is a write-off, and judging from the weapons some of these locals are toting, the duel tournament seems like a liability."

"That bad?"

She made a face. "It's fought with blunted weapons, but that's not much use if you're unarmoured - which presents obvious problems for our people."

He nodded. "The mass melee?"

She gestured over the arena. "The key there is in the name - melee. There is some room for manoeuvre, certainly, but there is relatively little space for strategic input. The bulk of it would come down to brawling, which presents much the same problem as the duels."

"Even so, you'd hope that among our people-"

"Our people are mostly balanda wretches. I wouldn't trust them with a spear, let alone a sword. We could always request local troops, but while it might be entertaining to see them bash away at each other in our name, there doesn't seem a lot of point - and it would still reflect on us if we lost."

"The chess games then?"

"Chess," she scoffed. "Were this true shakmat I would back myself against anyone here, but they have seen fit to include an element of chance."

"Still worth a try, perhaps."

"Perhaps." She looked pensive. "It seems wrong, though, somehow, to accede to the perversions of such a noble game. Is there anything these barbarians will not degrade?"

"Possibly not. I saw two of them practically coupling in the street earlier."

She shivered apparently involuntarily. "Disgusting. But then what can you expect of people who live in homes grubbed from the ground?"

Daras watched her carefully. Morvarid's celibacy was notorious, and had doubtless played a role in her rising through the ranks of the military so high, so quickly, with no distractions or interruptions to hold her back. Even so, and though she was probably no older than him, he knew a murmuring was starting to grow that it was time for her to marry and give birth to the next generation of conquerors. He wasn't sure if her refusal to accede to such suggestions was down to stubbornness, a single-minded career focus, or simple lack of attraction to men, or some combination thereof, but she would make a fine catch for any man fortunate or patient enough to win her affections: his interest in her reasons was not entirely out of curiosity. Now, though, was not the time to pursue that.

He gestured around. "You have to admit that they are impressive grubbers, all the same."

She sniffed. "It has a sort of... naive charisma, I suppose, but no subtlety or elegance - and this is merely the face of it. The caverns beyond where they actually live go gods know how deep, halfway to the gates of Yamaneh most likely."

"In which case such base creatures should hardly present a challenge to one so skilled as you on the chessboard."

She looked at him with what might have been the beginnings of a smile. "Very well, I shall enter. But if it goes tits-up, remember it was your idea."


War Chess 14 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?441543-EMPIRE2!-Dice-Rolling&p=20148848#post20148848)

[Mary_Sue]

Avonlea

A man claiming to represent the Kingdom of Nand presented himself at the quarters of the Avonlea delegation early on the second day. He was clad modestly, for a Nend, with a silk scarf and open-chested shirt, and breeches which reached all the way to the knee, as well as an elegant onion-shaped hat. He was one of those without an obvious "colour" to his skin, which was otherwise a lightly-bronzed olive. He smiled, revealing a gold tooth.

"Greetings, folk of the east," he said. "I am Reza of Nand; I present the compliments of the Queen and Prince Regent."


Helia met the charasmatic man and greeted him cordially,

"We are honored to meet with the delegation from Nand. Shall I pass on your regards to my Queen who is resting with her child, or would you like wait with us until she is awake?" The other handmaidens who were themselves lounging about on cushions giggled and whispered to each other.


Maldarr studied Thalia's delicately feminine features that he had remembered clearly from their last encounter, the small bow of her lips, her heavily lashed eyes that were downcast as she nervously toyed with the gem at her throat. He frowned, her worry seemed not to stem from his presence precisely, something else was clearly on her mind.

"I have been well, my queen. And what of you?" He asked gently, though her proximity was intoxicating and his eyes reflexively glanced to her bedcushions. He did a double take to see an infant lay on the queen's bed and his cheeks reddened, suddenly ashamed of his thoughts, as though she could read his desires. His thoughts did not linger on the child, nor did he inspect it in detail, his eyes trying to meet Thalia's in vain. Perplexed, he took her hands in his protectively,

"Please tell me what the matter is, whatever it is, I will help you fix it if I can." and gazed down at her with concern.

Thalia's deeply troubled eyes lifted to meet his as he stared down at her, they had gone dark with concern. She blinked and drew a breath and began,

"The Prophetess Council has decreed that my son be reared in the lands of his father. He is dear to me, and so I do not wish to part with him, but I have no choice." Her face clouded further,

"No choice that isn't open rebellion against the Council." Even now she could barely conceive of it,

"Maldarr", She hesitated slightly as her voice faltered,

"You are this child's father, and he is to go home to Ambrose with you." She spoke slowly and clearly, looking Maldarr in his good eye so that there could be no misunderstanding of what she said.

[HalfTangible]

Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, and Roethye and Breydice

It was a surprise that the high queen had come to the front gate, but even if it was a surprised expression for Mevo, it was a usual raccoon dog smile from Chesuka.

They curtsied politely.
"Harmony between dawn and dusk!" Chesuka greeted with polite words.
"I apologize we are slow to arrive, but how could we refuse such an invitation?"
With a usual raccoon dog smile she met the gaze of Breydice.
"It was a long journey. Your lands are so large! However, we arrived safely. Your people are very generous!" She said, to indicate to the knives.
"However, I am sorry I should make the introductions. I am Chesuka of Luska. This is Choko. She is Alysha of Luska, and he is Washington. And she is-"
"Mevo, and this is Solomon." Mevo interrupted.
"We brought with us a gift for you." Chesuka continued, to reveal the gourd of wine.
"It is from before the dark times, so it is sweet." She explained, and offered it to the princess.

Maybe such a villagers thought the young ladies are rather immature and naive!
Luskans don't fight with bigger weapons because there isn't very much <Metal>. Such a knife they are happy.
Maybe they will be seen as childish in Primus, however! :smallsmile:
I know, that's why I find it hilarious :smallwink:

Breydice took the gourd and bowed with it in her hands. "I am very grateful." She looked up, expression dark. "Though you should know that the Aeldir are here as well."*

*I presume so, anyway. They probably aren't leaving after chatting with the High Queen, but they might.

Roethye raised an eyebrow at Breydice's bluntness. She turned to the Luskan women. "Have you come to compete in the duel tournament? There isn't enough of you for every event here... Or did you have political business to attend to?"


Leonard tried to contain his horror as best he could as the High Queen described the controlled anarchy that was the Primus Imperium. His mind was so filled with instincts of flight and danger given the description of the barbarous place he seemed to have found himself in that he only just caught the end of the High Queen's final sentence.

"Huh? Um, what? Oh, infighting? No, not since the Coalition formed, no," Leonard tried to compose himself as best he could and continued on, "There's bickering of course, all the factions have their own wants and needs and sometimes these conflict but hardly ever violently. Such violence is severely frowned upon," he paused before adding, "In the Coalition."

"We had a dark time ourselves after the collapse of the Old Empire, though the last decades under its rule are not fondly remembered either. The common people, farmers and craftsman and the like, they were forced to scrape by on their own while remnants of the Imperial Army bled them dry in tribute and coerced fealty. Thirty years ago the Krolzer, I suppose he might be called a King in the trade tongue, though I think Adjudicator might be more appropriate, well he formed the first Council. He went and gathered support from the common people and trained them to fight. They fought back the raider remnants but instead of killing them the Krolzer made them a deal, become protectors in exchange for the crops they had once stolen and bend themselves to the will of the Council, a civilian government. The deal worked and the Council grew and the system expanded. A new Council was formed as the territory grew to represent broader swaths of land than just villages and representatives of these factions are those who now sit on the primary Council though each faction maintains its own council as well."

"The former raiders integrated with the civil folk and loyalty came to fall to the faction, yet each faction knows it is at its strongest with the backing of the other factions through their cooperation in the Council and all respect the wisdom and guidance of the Krolzer. The people of the Jade Coalition are many and they are proud of their homes and their cultures but all recognize it is the Coalition that gives them strength and so cooperation and compromise is greatly rewarded and has proven time and again to be the most beneficial for the whole. The various factional loyalties are our greatest strength, however much they may at times appear to be a liability or a fractured weakness, assimilation and subjugation robs a realm of variety of thought and adaptability. Our proudly independent yet cooperating cultures allow us to adapt and overcome any situation."

Roethye raised an eyebrow. She'd meant that to be reassuring, but instead she seemed to have given the man a heart attack. She wasn't sure why, she'd basically said outright that he was perfectly safe here, and his own country's system didn't sound all that different.


"We have, thank you. Calendula in particular is happy with the quality of your steel. I do wish to speak of expanding trade, possibly including Berrium in our route, if it can be mutually agreed as beneficial. There has been little activity out of their lands recently." He knew Primus held closer relations to their northern neighbors and hoped for news of the region.

Roethye raised an eyebrow. "Steel? Moonsilver isn't- OH you mean Tertius' steel!" She nodded, smiling. "I'm not supposed to talk about the issues that have been keeping the Knight-Protector silent..." She leaned in close to whisper conspiratorially. "But my sister tells me that he's been gravely ill for the last few years. She thought Valerius would have to take the throne before long." She shook her head and pulled back. "You didn't hear any of that from me. But the Knight-Protector is apparently coming to the Grand Tournament." She held up a finger. "Oh, and this one I am supposed to tell you. Your request for expanding Trade Route Primaris to get to the kingdom's lumber has been approved. You should be seeing lumber merchants as soon as you get home."


"His name is Nyle. He is not my heir, no. Men do not hold positions of authority in my lands, it is why there are none with us." She smiled, the foreign queen's love for babies having endeared her to Thalia.

"I have brought Nyle so that he may be introduced to his father. He is not of Primus, but another land. I am confident he will be here." Her smile faltered a bit, not wishing to reveal her child's father before he himself knew of his son's existence.

"If you would like, my handmaiden will light a cigar for you and your daughter to try." Eager to change the subject from Nyle's father, she took the chance to demonstrate her gift. Cigar smoking was not as fashionable in Avonlea as it was in Coventry, the region of their origin, but still, they had found some favor for their aromatic, vaguely floral scent. The box they were held in had been carved with the trappings of war, swords, shields and helms all decorated the sides and lid.

Roethye blinked before glancing at Breydice.

She shook her head. "I will be in the duel tournament, and I don't know how this will affect me. I shouldn't."

"... Well, your loss. I'll try it." Roethye shrugged as she handed the infant back to its mother. She had seen the queen's faltering smile at the mention of the baby's father. She wasn't sure why her fellow royal cared - Roethye had enough children to make bad jokes about, and she wasn't entirely sure which of the males under her employ had fathered each of them.

But she knew pain when she saw it.


Morvarid wished for a moment she had not removed her helm, so that her reaction might be hidden from the view of their hosts. She did not expect foreigners to understand the intricate system of precedence in Nand, but she was amused that this supposedly matriarchal culture immediately assumed that the man present was the most senior, and further that in this place royalty were expected to make their own introductions. Perhaps they were expected to wash their own clothes and scrub their own floors too. She would not have been who she was if it hadn't stung slightly, too: by every measure except by birth she outranked the prince, and while she had been given instructions that in certain - very limited - respects he had plenipotentiary powers, to all other intents and purposes she was in command, and the delegation leader. She bit back a response and simply turned back to the prince.

Daras looked momentarily confused, and glanced to the steward at his left. "Does she mean our queen?" he asked quietly, in the Nanda language.

"No, shaban; she said Aima, the blind bloodbeasts of Quartus."

"Ah." He turned back to the queen, more practised than Morvarid at hiding his emotions. "I speak when I have cause, your excellency. Though if I were to begin making my own introductions I should put a great number of fine people out of work. Thank you for your welcome, in any case."

Haha... bloodbeasts

Roethye would later remark that she felt like she'd just been told that the people of Nand made their trees out of warships.

... He employed people... to speak for him. While he watched.

There was 'absurd' and then there was 'pointlessly absurd'.

And as far as she could tell, this woman was no translator, nor any royal. Surely these barbarians at least understood that when you had a princess or prince, they were higher ranked than their employees? Granted, the prince was a man, but that did not change his royal blood.

She turned back to Morvarid in any case. "My apologies - the snub was unintentional. You and your... charge are welcome in Valkyrie, milady." She held out a hand. "What would you ask of me?"

Breydice's eyes narrowed as she glanced between the Prince and his... karapan, was the word? She said nothing.

[Kasanip]

I know, that's why I find it hilarious :smallwink:

Breydice took the gourd and bowed with it in her hands. "I am very grateful." She looked up, expression dark. "Though you should know that the Aeldir are here as well."*

*I presume so, anyway. They probably aren't leaving after chatting with the High Queen, but they might.

Roethye raised an eyebrow at Breydice's bluntness. She turned to the Luskan women. "Have you come to compete in the duel tournament? There isn't enough of you for every event here... Or did you have political business to attend to?"
Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, and Roethye and Breydice

At the news of the Aeldir, Mevo gripped the knife and looked around quickly, however Chesuka only smiled and shrugged.
"Of course, it is hard to find a place without the Aeldir recently." She commented. "They are in Luska, too."

"Calm down, Mevo." Alysha quickly whispered to her friend, grabbing her arm. Mevo seemed to relax, however it was still the easy to understand scowl on her face.
"As for duels, I suppose we could try!" Chesuka said, patting the knife cheerfully.
"However, it isn't the style of the people of twilight to do such a thing. We would probably lose so quickly!" She humbly giggled.
"Actually, to bluntly say , it is the political reasons. She continued.
"As you are aware, the people of twilight are suffering the occupation of the Aeldir. Terrible crimes and suffering occur everyday. However, we continue to fight against this invasion. It is my goal to free them. So, at this international event, it is hoped somehow it can be achieved." She said politely.
"However, we will not cause trouble with your guests. I am grateful you welcome us, though some Aeldir would call us exiles or rebels." Alysha said politely.
"More likely, they have offered money for Chesuka's capture." Mevo muttered. Alysha rapped her friend's head. Such an inappropriate thing could be said, and Chesuka looked a little sad. However, her eyes remained to stare the gaze of the Queen.
"I am sure our presence will cause trouble for your people and their relationship to the Aeldir. If it is necessary, you may claim to have captured us. I am certain you will receive their favor quickly." She said, to hold her arms in surrender.

[PepperP.]

Thalia's deeply troubled eyes lifted to meet his as he stared down at her, they had gone dark with concern. She blinked and drew a breath and began,

"The Prophetess Council has decreed that my son be reared in the lands of his father. He is dear to me, and so I do not wish to part with him, but I have no choice." Her face clouded further,

"No choice that isn't open rebellion against the Council." Even now she could barely conceive of it,

"Maldarr", She hesitated slightly as her voice faltered,

"You are this child's father, and he is to go home to Ambrose with you." She spoke slowly and clearly, looking Maldarr in his good eye so that there could be no misunderstanding of what she said.

Maldarr stared at her blankly for a long moment as her words sank in, he drew her over to stand by the bed where the child lay sleeping peacefully. He finally noted the boy's dark hair and tawny skin, Thalia had not been his first dalliance, far from it, but she was the first to come forward to claim that he had sired a child,

"Can there be any doubt?" He felt shame asking the queen such a question, but his Uncle Aleksy would allow no doubt for the Drivas heir.





Roethye raised an eyebrow. "Steel? Moonsilver isn't- OH you mean Tertius' steel!" She nodded, smiling. "I'm not supposed to talk about the issues that have been keeping the Knight-Protector silent..." She leaned in close to whisper conspiratorially. "But my sister tells me that he's been gravely ill for the last few years. She thought Valerius would have to take the throne before long." She shook her head and pulled back. "You didn't hear any of that from me. But the Knight-Protector is apparently coming to the Grand Tournament." She held up a finger. "Oh, and this one I am supposed to tell you. Your request for expanding Trade Route Primaris to get to the kingdom's lumber has been approved. You should be seeing lumber merchants as soon as you get home."

"I shall have to personally greet the Knight-Protector and thank him for his trade then, that is fine news indeed!" His acquaintance with Primus was proving productive already, he thought to himself as he flashed the queen a satisfied smile.

[HalfTangible]

Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, and Roethye and Breydice

At the news of the Aeldir, Mevo gripped the knife and looked around quickly, however Chesuka only smiled and shrugged.
"Of course, it is hard to find a place without the Aeldir recently." She commented. "They are in Luska, too."

"Calm down, Mevo." Alysha quickly whispered to her friend, grabbing her arm. Mevo seemed to relax, however it was still the easy to understand scowl on her face.
"As for duels, I suppose we could try!" Chesuka said, patting the knife cheerfully.
"However, it isn't the style of the people of twilight to do such a thing. We would probably lose so quickly!" She humbly giggled.
"Actually, to bluntly say , it is the political reasons. She continued.
"As you are aware, the people of twilight are suffering the occupation of the Aeldir. Terrible crimes and suffering occur everyday. However, we continue to fight against this invasion. It is my goal to free them. So, at this international event, it is hoped somehow it can be achieved." She said politely.
"However, we will not cause trouble with your guests. I am grateful you welcome us, though some Aeldir would call us exiles or rebels." Alysha said politely.
"More likely, they have offered money for Chesuka's capture." Mevo muttered. Alysha rapped her friend's head. Such an inappropriate thing could be said, and Chesuka looked a little sad. However, her eyes remained to stare the gaze of the Queen.
"I am sure our presence will cause trouble for your people and their relationship to the Aeldir. If it is necessary, you may claim to have captured us. I am certain you will receive their favor quickly." She said, to hold her arms in surrender.

Roethye burst out laughing. "Luskan, I'll freely admit I know too little about you to care if you live or die. But I'm open for any opportunity to snub Lady Autumn." She spread her arms wide. "Consider this place asylum, if need be. I gladly offer my hospitality."

Breydice glanced at her mother. "Shall we offer them troops as well, Mother?"

"Eh, probably not. We don't have any way to get them there other than marching through Ambrose, and I'm pretty sure they'd be pissed about that. And if our troops can't survive the desert, they definitely can't survive THAT march."

Breydice sighed. "Pity." She turned to the Luskans. "So long as you do not start the trouble, you have nothing to fear from us."


"I shall have to personally greet the Knight-Protector and thank him for his trade then, that is fine news indeed!" His acquaintance with Primus was proving productive already, he thought to himself as he flashed the queen a satisfied smile.

Roethye beamed. "I'm glad this has worked out so well for all involved. If you see his wife - Tusameia - do tell her to come speak with her sister - we haven't talked in ages."

[Mary_Sue]

Maldarr stared at her blankly for a long moment as her words sank in, he drew her over to stand by the bed where the child lay sleeping peacefully. He finally noted the boy's dark hair and tawny skin, Thalia had not been his first dalliance, far from it, but she was the first to come forward to claim that he had sired a child,

"Can there be any doubt?" He felt shame asking the queen such a question, but his Uncle Aleksy would allow no doubt for the Drivas heir.

Thalia's cheeks burned, but she could not begrudge his question,

"There was nobody on the months at sea to the Aeldir's desert island, and then there was you, and then there was him. There can be no doubt, he is your son." Thalia had been so pleased when she first felt the stirrings of life inside of her and knew they had come from this man. She had known their child would be something special, she must trust in the Council's wisdom. Maldarr's people would raise her son into a great man she would be proud of.

"His name is Nyle. Nyle Darkthorne." As if he heard his name, he stirred on the bed and rubbed his eyes and sat up, his gaze went up, up to reach Maldarr's face and he tumbled backwards on the bed, content to take the pair in while he played with his toes. Thalia reached down to lift him in her arms, smiling fondly at his antics.

"Do you want to say hi?" She asked Maldarr softly, biting her lower lip nervously.

[PepperP.]

Thalia's cheeks burned, but she could not begrudge his question,

"There was nobody on the months at sea to the Aeldir's desert island, and then there was you, and then there was him. There can be no doubt, he is your son." Thalia had been so pleased when she first felt the stirrings of life inside of her and knew they had come from this man. She had known their child would be something special, she must trust in the Council's wisdom. Maldarr's people would raise her son into a great man she would be proud of.

"His name is Nyle. Nyle Darkthorne." As if he heard his name, he stirred on the bed and rubbed his eyes and sat up, his gaze went up, up to reach Maldarr's face and he tumbled backwards on the bed, content to take the pair in while he played with his toes. Thalia reached down to lift him in her arms, smiling fondly at his antics.

"Do you want to say hi?" She asked Maldarr softly, biting her lower lip nervously.

Maldarr listened to Thalia's assurances with relief, Aleksy would be satisfied then. He looked down at his son and took in his small face, recognizing some of his features in miniature. The child opened his eyes and Maldarr smiled, he had Thalia's eyes. The queen lifted him up, she seemed calmer now, more resolute. At her question, Maldarr reached down to bring the boy into his arms and spoke to his son for the first time.

"You are Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, Prince of Avonlea. And I am your father." He reached his free hand to reach around Thalia's shoulders and brought her in close to him and Nyle in a little family circle. He knew it couldn't last, but it was his for now and he savored it.

[TheDarkDM]

At the rear of the Spring delegation lurked a shadow. Neither armed nor armored, she had passed nigh-unnoticed in the wake of the fantastic animals and gregarious representatives that were Lady Autumn's vanguard, and little wonder that. For while she stood well clear of six feet tall she was garbed in a simple dress of black rosecloth, the sole ornamentation a subtle but sumptuous brocade of pearls in the shape of a twining serpent across her bosom. The play of muscle beneath the lily-white skin of her arms bespoke strength, but there was an ethereal wanness to her. The deceptive appearance of frailty common in the Winter Court, but oft mistaken as sickness elsewhere.

Pale silver hair hung in a long plait down her back, broken only by a pair of slender, short braids that framed her face. It was that face which held the only crack in the Winter Aeldir's ghostly beauty, a jagged red scar that traced its way from temple to mouth on her right side. Angry, broken veins crawled beneath the skin with every expression, a serpent of blood to match that of silver. An altogether unsettling portrait, but one that the other Aeldir found familiar. For she was Danu Llaeth, the Orm, lord captain of the Winter Fleet and third ranking member of the Winter Court. Here on direct command of her lord to watch over Lady Autumn and return with every tale she could muster of the barbarous west.

She watched in silence as introductions were made, as Lord Sand delivered the niceties of Lady Autumn that this besotted cow of a queen took as weakness. An expected reaction, and one that Lady Autumn was well capable of handling. In truth the Primus bored the Orm, and so her black eyes flicked across the mountain city in search of other delegations. Delegations, perhaps, more worthy of her attention.

[Tychris1]

Kvöl rubbed the dirt between her fingers, iron gauntlets grinding the strange substance before her eyes as she kneeled down to the earth below. Dismounted from her horse, she sniffed the dirt for a few seconds before reaching down and gripping a handful of it just to watch it pass between her fingers.

"Strange..."

She said quietly to herself in her mother tongue before standing fully erect and turning back to Fjöldadráp who was currently busy scowling angrily at their "guide" who was trembling and sweating with every labored step. Mounting her horse once more, Kvöl patted her brown stallion and urged it forward down the path. Slowly the darkness that surrounded them was stripped away as beams of sunlight came crashing down on them from the tunnels exit. Holding their hands up to shield their visors, the intense sunlight anathema to what the two Nifelic warriors are used to. Now fully illuminated the two warriors were sights ripped straight from a nightmarish fairy tale. Kvöl was wrapped in scale armor that was tinted to look like human bone, with actual bits of bone added into the design and a large bear skull resting on her shoulder as a pauldron to compliment the other one made of metal that rested on her right shoulder. She was a powerfully built pale woman, an exemplar of what it meant to be a lady of the north, and her hair flowed down to her shoulders in three braids of the highest quality a noble person could afford. Her eyes and hair were pure white, with blue veins coursing through her neck and lips as pale as a ghost. Gold was ceremoniously embedded throughout her armor as a sign of Clan Hardrada's wealth, with the most opulent bit of work being the clans symbol emblazoned upon her chest: A raven flying before the sun. A heavy shield weighed at her side, plain and unassuming though it may be, and on her left was an axe forged from platinum. It was a crude and ill made weapon, as it was a resource only recently acquired by the Great Clans and as of such they did not know how to properly work it but it would suffice for bludgeoning any uppity heathens. The final piece to her ensemble was a menacing and expressionless helmet that she wore which revealed nothing of her face save her eyes and had a crown of horns surrounding it with a single long horn at the top.

Fjöldadráp's armor was far less intricate in design, as he simply wore heavy amounts of incredibly bloodied and rusted chain armor all over his body, and occasionally reinforced it with torn and beaten leather. His armor showed obvious sign of the intensive battles and conditions he had endured while wearing it, bits of organs or flesh (both allies and enemies) were embedded in a few links, and the edges showed obvious exposure to extremely low temperatures. His face was a permanent scowl composed of scars, moles, freckles, a long red beard, and a jawline strong enough to break rocks with it. His eyes were black as coal, reminiscent of the night sky when lights could be seen reflected in it, and his teeth had an eerily similar complexion given the rancid odor emanating from his mouth. A few sparse red hairs escaped from the top of his head where a horned helmet stylized after Jötenhel's banner rested. In the true Jötenhel fashion he armed himself with two swords at each side, and over a dozen daggers in locations best left unsaid. Where as Kvöl had brought a tent with provisions and basic camping equipment on the back of her mount, Fjöldadráp instead merely packed a tankard on the back of his horse and occasionally sipped from it as they progressed through the mountains. Though he was an inch or two shorter then Kvöl he made up for it in his sheer thickness and muscle density, a fact that was only occasionally brought up in Clan Jötenhel in fear of receiving a beating. Taking out his sword, he prodded their "guide" along faster, and with a swift tug he yanked the chain at the end of his tankard that kept their translator from running away.

Approaching the city, the four of them looked like quite the odd gathering. A man, naked and dirty save for the chains that blinded him to the back of a horse he was being pulled from. A woman in crude yet opulent battle regalia, who habitually looked up towards the sky or counted numbers aloud. A man who looked like he had been plucked straight out of a bandit raid and probably imbibed as much booze and blood as he did water. And finally the guide for this event, a dignitary who was probably paid far too little for this job and would certainly consider changing fields after this experience. Listing off a few numbers aloud, Kvöl audibly smacked her lips before turning a head to Fjöldadráp.

"We'll be there in about 5 minutes thirty seconds if my estimates right..."

Visibly brightening at the news that their long trip was over, Fjöldadráp began to reach down to the side of his stallion and unfurled a massive banner made of what one could only assume to be human skin that proudly bore the symbol of Clan Jötenhel (And smaller acknowledgements to the other clans). Gripping it tightly he affixed it onto the tankard behind his horse and let it blow through the wind tempestuously. "About time, I thought we'd never get to crack some degenerate skulls on our way here." He intoned in a rather surly manner as he trotted ahead to keep pace. Groaning at the sight of the banner, Kvöl began to take out the horn that was customarily blown before the arrival of any significant members of Clan Hardrada.

"Must you really have a whole banner on display? Seems a little grandiose."
"Says the woman brandishing a carved ceremony horn to trumpet our arrival."
"Point taken."

Blowing on the horn, Kvöl let out 3 sharp notes before lowering the guard on her helmet again and jabbing a finger at Fjöldadráp to pull in the slave.

"Get the fishermen ready, we're going to be needing his translation once the others come to greet us."

[Aedilred]

Helia met the charasmatic man and greeted him cordially,

"We are honored to meet with the delegation from Nand. Shall I pass on your regards to my Queen who is resting with her child, or would you like wait with us until she is awake?" The other handmaidens who were themselves lounging about on cushions giggled and whispered to each other.

He removed his hat, revealing long, elaborately curled blue hair (whether dyed or naturally so was not immediately apparent), and bowed slightly. "I am happy to wait, miladies or to return at a more convenient time. I have been appointed as ambassador to Avonlea and so am here to present my credentials and ask permission to join your queen's court."





Haha... bloodbeasts

Roethye would later remark that she felt like she'd just been told that the people of Nand made their trees out of warships.

... He employed people... to speak for him. While he watched.

There was 'absurd' and then there was 'pointlessly absurd'.

And as far as she could tell, this woman was no translator, nor any royal. Surely these barbarians at least understood that when you had a princess or prince, they were higher ranked than their employees? Granted, the prince was a man, but that did not change his royal blood.

She turned back to Morvarid in any case. "My apologies - the snub was unintentional. You and your... charge are welcome in Valkyrie, milady." She held out a hand. "What would you ask of me?"

Breydice's eyes narrowed as she glanced between the Prince and his... karapan, was the word? She said nothing.

"I take no offence," she lied, gazing back at the queen. "Though I should warn you I am not of noble birth: should you wish to refer to me by title the correct form is 'karapan' only. We are here simply to thank you for your hospitality and introduce ourselves upon arrival in your city." She wondered if they might have slipped in unannounced otherwise, and her mind immediately ran to the possibility of hostile troops infiltrating the city under the guise of diplomats. It was not her responsibility, though it would become her problem if members of her delegation came under attack. Even as she continued talking, her mind was silently running contingencies, evaluating the strength of her troops and their equipment, plotting escape routes, access to weaponry, the most defensible positions in the city, and so on. Such were the qualities that had seen her rise to karapan in the first place.

"I shall however take this opportunity to present Nazgola, who we propose as the kingdom's ambassador to Primus." She gestured to an olive-skinned woman who appeared to be roughly in her thirties, and who gave a half-bow to the queen.

[Mary_Sue]

Maldarr listened to Thalia's assurances with relief, Aleksy would be satisfied then. He looked down at his son and took in his small face, recognizing some of his features in miniature. The child opened his eyes and Maldarr smiled, he had Thalia's eyes. The queen lifted him up, she seemed calmer now, more resolute. At her question, Maldarr reached down to bring the boy into his arms and spoke to his son for the first time.

"You are Nyle Darkthorne Drivas, Prince of Avonlea. And I am your father." He reached his free hand to reach around Thalia's shoulders and brought her in close to him and Nyle in a little family circle. He knew it couldn't last, but it was his for now and he savored it.

They stood like that for a long while, Maldarr's strong arms around her a bittersweet comfort. Her harem men didn't usually hold her, she felt safe and vulnerable at the same time. They stirred when Nyle started to fuss, shoving his fingers into his mouth and whimpering, hungry after his long nap. She took the boy back and began to feed Nyle in her arms. After he was settled and content she looked up to Maldarr,

"I need you to do something else for me before we part." She paused, a small smile on her lips.

"Give me a daughter?" A daughter who could stay with her to raise and watch her grow, her smile grew as she reached up to re-enter the circle of his embrace.

[QUOTE=Aedilred;20151293]He removed his hat, revealing long, elaborately curled blue hair (whether dyed or naturally so was not immediately apparent), and bowed slightly. "I am happy to wait, miladies or to return at a more convenient time. I have been appointed as ambassador to Avonlea and so am here to present my credentials and ask permission to join your queen's court."

Helia's eyes widened at the fascinating color of the man's hair.

"If you have the time to wait, it might be pleasant." She gestured to the other girls who busied themselves fluffing cushions, pouring wine and fixing snacks.

"Please, relax." She gestured to the cushions, herself finding one to lounge upon.

"Join my queen's court in what capacity?" She asked, her head tilted to one side, not understanding what he meant.

[QuintonBeck]

Derris had heard of Primus's northern expansion being unexpectedly halted by a foreign power, it seems he had inadvertently found them. Or him, rather. The man spoke civilly and well, his clothes spoke of a non-militant culture, though they did well enough to give Roethye pause, and their duelist handled himself proficiently.

"Ambrose lies just east of Primus, though our capitol, Askerville is on the coast a fair ways from the border. Our lands reach just north of our capitol, south to border the Nanda and Prevaz, and east to include the lands across the Shining Straight." He spoke of his holdings matter of factly, to give the man an idea of the shape of the western continent's landscape.

"How far north do your lands reach, if I may ask." He did not wish to offend the man by prying, but was immensely curious about the heretofore unknown lands.

"I'm afraid I might need a southern map to explain it clearly," he laughed, "We largely encompass the land around the Strawberry Gulf and have not ventured far north from the coastal lands. The Gulf isn't too far north from the Puldine Acreage, that is the Coalition tributary the Primus Imperium recently made contact with."

[Aedilred]

Helia's eyes widened at the fascinating color of the man's hair.

"If you have the time to wait, it might be pleasant." She gestured to the other girls who busied themselves fluffing cushions, pouring wine and fixing snacks.

"Please, relax." She gestured to the cushions, herself finding one to lounge upon.

"Join my queen's court in what capacity?" She asked, her head tilted to one side, not understanding what he meant.
"I have all the time necessary." He relaxed into the cushions.

"The prince regent would like me to represent the kingdom's interests at the queen's court on a long-term basis, and hope to establish and build upon friendly relationships between our crowns," he explained. "Our contact with the east has been limited, but I gather we are not so distant that contact cannot be maintained - especially in light of the Aeldir conquests of most of the land separating us, whatever one may think of their doing so."

[PepperP.]

They stood like that for a long while, Maldarr's strong arms around her a bittersweet comfort. Her harem men didn't usually hold her, she felt safe and vulnerable at the same time. They stirred when Nyle started to fuss, shoving his fingers into his mouth and whimpering, hungry after his long nap. She took the boy back and began to feed Nyle in her arms. After he was settled and content she looked up to Maldarr,

"I need you to do something else for me before we part." She paused, a small smile on her lips.

"Give me a daughter?" A daughter who could stay with her to raise and watch her grow, her smile grew as she reached up to re-enter the circle of his embrace

Maldarr obliged her with an embrace and kissed the top of her head, her soft curls tickling his nose and he smoothed her hair down with his hand, enjoying the softness of it against his rough skin. He felt an old familiar ache in his chest, a burning pain he had buried long ago and sighed. It seemed he was not destined for the mundane pleasures of domestic bliss, but this with Thalia was real and it was fine enough.

"I will do my best, my queen, though we had better try several times, just to be sure." He could not stifle his laugh, which lifted the heaviness between them. He could not wait to tell Derris he had a son, but he had a duty to perform for the queen, and he was determined to do his best.


"I'm afraid I might need a southern map to explain it clearly," he laughed, "We largely encompass the land around the Strawberry Gulf and have not ventured far north from the coastal lands. The Gulf isn't too far north from the Puldine Acreage, that is the Coalition tributary the Primus Imperium recently made contact with."

Derris chuckled ruefully,

"I'm afraid it's much the same for me, it's difficult to picture lands you've never seen. Would a diplomatic delegation from Ambrose be welcomed in your lands?" He asked thoughtfully, it could only be beneficial to see the northern lands of their continent. Perhaps a permanent ambassador might be arranged eventually.

[HalfTangible]

"I take no offence," she lied, gazing back at the queen. "Though I should warn you I am not of noble birth: should you wish to refer to me by title the correct form is 'karapan' only. We are here simply to thank you for your hospitality and introduce ourselves upon arrival in your city." She wondered if they might have slipped in unannounced otherwise, and her mind immediately ran to the possibility of hostile troops infiltrating the city under the guise of diplomats. It was not her responsibility, though it would become her problem if members of her delegation came under attack. Even as she continued talking, her mind was silently running contingencies, evaluating the strength of her troops and their equipment, plotting escape routes, access to weaponry, the most defensible positions in the city, and so on. Such were the qualities that had seen her rise to karapan in the first place.

"I shall however take this opportunity to present Nazgola, who we propose as the kingdom's ambassador to Primus." She gestured to an olive-skinned woman who appeared to be roughly in her thirties, and who gave a half-bow to the queen.She shrugged. "As you wish, karapan."

Roethye nodded and half-bowed back to Nazgola. "I'll have accommodations prepared. I look forward to working with you."

"Karapan, may I take the prince off your hands? I wish to speak with him in private."

Roethye raised an eyebrow, glancing at her daughter for a brief moment before returning to the karapan. Whatever the karapan's answer, Roethye would continue as if Breydice had not spoken out of turn. "Aside from the mock naval battle, most of the events worth noting will take place in the coliseum in the center of the city. There are accommodations there for your warriors and we have rooms available in the palace for you and your personal delegation, should you require them... though I'm not sure how you would want your riding lizards stabled."


Kvöl rubbed the dirt between her fingers, iron gauntlets grinding the strange substance before her eyes as she kneeled down to the earth below. Dismounted from her horse, she sniffed the dirt for a few seconds before reaching down and gripping a handful of it just to watch it pass between her fingers.

"Strange..."

She said quietly to herself in her mother tongue before standing fully erect and turning back to Fjöldadráp who was currently busy scowling angrily at their "guide" who was trembling and sweating with every labored step. Mounting her horse once more, Kvöl patted her brown stallion and urged it forward down the path. Slowly the darkness that surrounded them was stripped away as beams of sunlight came crashing down on them from the tunnels exit. Holding their hands up to shield their visors, the intense sunlight anathema to what the two Nifelic warriors are used to. Now fully illuminated the two warriors were sights ripped straight from a nightmarish fairy tale. Kvöl was wrapped in scale armor that was tinted to look like human bone, with actual bits of bone added into the design and a large bear skull resting on her shoulder as a pauldron to compliment the other one made of metal that rested on her right shoulder. She was a powerfully built pale woman, an exemplar of what it meant to be a lady of the north, and her hair flowed down to her shoulders in three braids of the highest quality a noble person could afford. Her eyes and hair were pure white, with blue veins coursing through her neck and lips as pale as a ghost. Gold was ceremoniously embedded throughout her armor as a sign of Clan Hardrada's wealth, with the most opulent bit of work being the clans symbol emblazoned upon her chest: A raven flying before the sun. A heavy shield weighed at her side, plain and unassuming though it may be, and on her left was an axe forged from platinum. It was a crude and ill made weapon, as it was a resource only recently acquired by the Great Clans and as of such they did not know how to properly work it but it would suffice for bludgeoning any uppity heathens. The final piece to her ensemble was a menacing and expressionless helmet that she wore which revealed nothing of her face save her eyes and had a crown of horns surrounding it with a single long horn at the top.

Fjöldadráp's armor was far less intricate in design, as he simply wore heavy amounts of incredibly bloodied and rusted chain armor all over his body, and occasionally reinforced it with torn and beaten leather. His armor showed obvious sign of the intensive battles and conditions he had endured while wearing it, bits of organs or flesh (both allies and enemies) were embedded in a few links, and the edges showed obvious exposure to extremely low temperatures. His face was a permanent scowl composed of scars, moles, freckles, a long red beard, and a jawline strong enough to break rocks with it. His eyes were black as coal, reminiscent of the night sky when lights could be seen reflected in it, and his teeth had an eerily similar complexion given the rancid odor emanating from his mouth. A few sparse red hairs escaped from the top of his head where a horned helmet stylized after Jötenhel's banner rested. In the true Jötenhel fashion he armed himself with two swords at each side, and over a dozen daggers in locations best left unsaid. Where as Kvöl had brought a tent with provisions and basic camping equipment on the back of her mount, Fjöldadráp instead merely packed a tankard on the back of his horse and occasionally sipped from it as they progressed through the mountains. Though he was an inch or two shorter then Kvöl he made up for it in his sheer thickness and muscle density, a fact that was only occasionally brought up in Clan Jötenhel in fear of receiving a beating. Taking out his sword, he prodded their "guide" along faster, and with a swift tug he yanked the chain at the end of his tankard that kept their translator from running away.

Approaching the city, the four of them looked like quite the odd gathering. A man, naked and dirty save for the chains that blinded him to the back of a horse he was being pulled from. A woman in crude yet opulent battle regalia, who habitually looked up towards the sky or counted numbers aloud. A man who looked like he had been plucked straight out of a bandit raid and probably imbibed as much booze and blood as he did water. And finally the guide for this event, a dignitary who was probably paid far too little for this job and would certainly consider changing fields after this experience. Listing off a few numbers aloud, Kvöl audibly smacked her lips before turning a head to Fjöldadráp.

"We'll be there in about 5 minutes thirty seconds if my estimates right..."

Visibly brightening at the news that their long trip was over, Fjöldadráp began to reach down to the side of his stallion and unfurled a massive banner made of what one could only assume to be human skin that proudly bore the symbol of Clan Jötenhel (And smaller acknowledgements to the other clans). Gripping it tightly he affixed it onto the tankard behind his horse and let it blow through the wind tempestuously. "About time, I thought we'd never get to crack some degenerate skulls on our way here." He intoned in a rather surly manner as he trotted ahead to keep pace. Groaning at the sight of the banner, Kvöl began to take out the horn that was customarily blown before the arrival of any significant members of Clan Hardrada.

"Must you really have a whole banner on display? Seems a little grandiose."
"Says the woman brandishing a carved ceremony horn to trumpet our arrival."
"Point taken."

Blowing on the horn, Kvöl let out 3 sharp notes before lowering the guard on her helmet again and jabbing a finger at Fjöldadráp to pull in the slave.

"Get the fishermen ready, we're going to be needing his translation once the others come to greet us."

Roethye's face split into a wicked grin as the new group approached (they looked like civilized folk) but it faltered as she recognized the flag as human skin. And then her face grew dark. These people reminded her far too much of the old stories mother had told her of the time before...

forced to kill their own friends and family, tortured into madness, masks of human skin and bloody pustules stretched over crazed eyes, a child is fed to his own moth-

They blew a horn thrice.

She shook herself vigorously. Those times were over, and if they were still stuck in that era they would have never come here. The High Queen forced a smile onto her face.

Breydice didn't even notice the banner. She blinked, a slight blush entering her cheeks as she looked the group over. She had no need to fake her own grin. Now these were men. Half-naked, covered in their enemies, led by a woman in fancy regalia... that was about a century or two out of style, but nobody's perfect.

... Oh, one of them had one of their own leashed up. Her heart sank a little, but only a little. With how civilized and cultured they had come before the High Queen, these foreigners would surely understand how sex worked better than the others - the fact that they were married didn't mean they couldn't invite her.

Roethye addressed the well-dressed woman. "Ah, welcome to Primus." Roethye's tone was less relaxed than it had been with the previous groups. "I am High Queen Roethye, and this is my daughter, High Princess Breydice."

"Hullo... Breydice said absent-mindledly, admiring the sweet, succulent musculature of their guests' sexy man-meat TAKING STOCK OF THE NEW ARRIVALS, yes, that sounds believable.

[Aedilred]

She shrugged. "As you wish, karapan."

Roethye nodded and half-bowed back to Nazgola. "I'll have accommodations prepared. I look forward to working with you."

"Karapan, may I take the prince off your hands? I wish to speak with him in private."

Roethye raised an eyebrow, glancing at her daughter for a brief moment before returning to the karapan. Whatever the karapan's answer, Roethye would continue as if Breydice had not spoken out of turn. "Aside from the mock naval battle, most of the events worth noting will take place in the coliseum in the center of the city. There are accommodations there for your warriors and we have rooms available in the palace for you and your personal delegation, should you require them... though I'm not sure how you would want your riding lizards stabled."


If she was taken aback, she did not show it. "Of course." She nodded to Daras, who dismounted and approached the princess.

As for her "warriors"... she glanced over the group. A couple of genuine soldiers, certainly, but mostly a mob of near-peasants who would barely know one end of a sword from another. Again, she wasn't sure if the queen's assessment of them as warriors spoke to a disdain for the combat abilities of the Nanda, or whether by comparison with the natives these were indeed impressive specimens. Best not to question it.

"The thezirins may be stabled as one would a horse," she said, in response to the query about 'riding lizards' - as if these proud creatures could be compared to some splay-legged squamate! Presumably this was just a linguistic mistake. "Though it is best not to stable them with horses, for reasons probably obvious - and they will need some access to the sun during the hours of daylight."

[HalfTangible]

If she was taken aback, she did not show it. "Of course." She nodded to Daras, who dismounted and approached the princess.

As for her "warriors"... she glanced over the group. A couple of genuine soldiers, certainly, but mostly a mob of near-peasants who would barely know one end of a sword from another. Again, she wasn't sure if the queen's assessment of them as warriors spoke to a disdain for the combat abilities of the Nanda, or whether by comparison with the natives these were indeed impressive specimens. Best not to question it.

"The thezirins may be stabled as one would a horse," she said, in response to the query about 'riding lizards' - as if these proud creatures could be compared to some splay-legged squamate! Presumably this was just a linguistic mistake. "Though it is best not to stable them with horses, for reasons probably obvious - and they will need some access to the sun during the hours of daylight."Roethye ran her own eyes over the lady's troops. A motley collection of warriors to be sure, but maybe they had some combat skill Roethye couldn't see. This conversation was already going poorly enough, there was no need to point out that Roethye could take out her entire guard piss-drunk and blindfolded.

"Thesirin... Thezirin." Roethye rolled the word around her mouth. "Is that the word? More noble than 'riding lizard', i suppose. Very well. We'll keep them away from the horses, camels and simurghs. Shouldn't be a problem. Do they require meat or is general horse feed acceptable? We have goats, if they require live prey."

---

When they had moved a slight distance away (far enough that the High Queen and Karapan would not overhear, but close enough that they could still see each other) Breydice turned and looked Daras in the eye. "To get to the point. I wish for you to meet my sister, and most likely her twin. Phelnia has become increasingly isolated since receiving her scar and I hope that meeting a foreign prince will compel her to 'come out of her shell', as it were. She's always been curious (if a little scatterbrained), and I have little doubt she will take the opportunity to ask as many questions about your culture as she can."

[Aedilred]

Roethye had actually meant it as a compliment. Not that the karapan could possibly know that. "Thesirin... Thezirin." Roethye rolled the word around her mouth. "Is that the word? More noble than 'riding lizard', i suppose. Very well. We'll keep them away from the horses, camels and simurghs. Shouldn't be a problem. Do they require meat or is general horse feed acceptable? We have goats, if they require live prey."
"Thezirins, yes. They are carnivorous, but do not require live prey and will only need feeding once per day at most."



When they had moved a slight distance away (far enough that the High Queen and Karapan would not overhear, but close enough that they could still see each other) Breydice turned and looked Daras in the eye. "To get to the point. I wish for you to meet my sister, and most likely her twin. Phelnia has become increasingly isolated since receiving her scar and I hope that meeting a foreign prince will compel her to 'come out of her shell', as it were. She's always been curious (if a little scatterbrained), and I have little doubt she will take the opportunity to ask as many questions about your culture as she can."
"Her scar? Did someone injure her? How was that permitted?" Daras looked rather shocked. "Of course, I would be happy to meet her and do what I can to assist with her convalescence."

[Tychris1]

Roethye's face split into a wicked grin as the new group approached (they looked like civilized folk) but it faltered as she recognized the flag as human skin. And then her face grew dark. These people reminded her far too much of the old stories mother had told her of the time before...

forced to kill their own friends and family, tortured into madness, masks of human skin and bloody pustules stretched over crazed eyes, a child is fed to his own moth-

They blew a horn thrice.

She shook herself vigorously. Those times were over, and if they were still stuck in that era they would have never come here. The High Queen forced a smile onto her face.

Breydice didn't even notice the banner. She blinked, a slight blush entering her cheeks as she looked the group over. She had no need to fake her own grin. Now these were men. Half-naked, covered in their enemies, led by a woman in fancy regalia... that was about a century or two out of style, but nobody's perfect.

... Oh, one of them had one of their own leashed up. Her heart sank a little, but only a little. With how civilized and cultured they had come before the High Queen, these foreigners would surely understand how sex worked better than the others - the fact that they were married didn't mean they couldn't invite her.

Roethye addressed the well-dressed woman. "Ah, welcome to Primus." Roethye's tone was less relaxed than it had been with the previous groups. "I am High Queen Roethye, and this is my daughter, High Princess Breydice."

"Hullo... Breydice said absent-mindledly, admiring the sweet, succulent musculature of their guests' sexy man-meat TAKING STOCK OF THE NEW ARRIVALS, yes, that sounds believable.

The two warriors of Nifhel looked between each other, nodding as they muttered a few words in their mother tongue before turning back to Roethye and raising a hand in greeting. Together they said in broken and thickly accented voices.

"N-n-not muh boat!"

And a small smile appeared on Fjöldadráp's face as he said what amounted to gibberish. Pulling on the chain, he kicked their slave forward and waited patiently as Kvöl started speaking to him in their barbarous tongue.

"Tell her that we have travelled far and wide to visit here, that we are Heralds of two of the four Great Clans of Nifhel, specifically Clan Jötenhel and Clan Hardrada. We will not be staying in any building they provide for us, as I have brought the only home we need. I am Kvöl of the Clan Hardrada and I ride in the stead of the Horsemen Famine. This is Fjöldadráp, and he rides in the stead of the Horsemen War. We have come to test the mettle of the lesser southerners."

Nodding his head meekly, the fishermen stared at the top of them rather oddly after what they initially said in the common tongue, but after getting over his initial shock quickly begins to transcribe what Kvöl said into a form that was comprehensible for the High Queen, stumbling and stuttering some of the words along the way. Fjöldadráp on the other hand said nothing, merely raising an eyebrow as he noticed Breydice staring at him intensely. A small grimace curled on his scowling rictus of a face as he leaned against his horse and stared back at her.

[HalfTangible]

"Thezirins, yes. They are carnivorous, but do not require live prey and will only need feeding once per day at most."Roethye nodded. "That's good, we've got plenty of meat for the few days the tournament will take. I'll get out of your way, let me know if you require anything further."



"Her scar? Did someone injure her? How was that permitted?" Daras looked rather shocked. "Of course, I would be happy to meet her and do what I can to assist with her convalescence."

"Attempted murder which got far luckier than it ever should have. We're looking into it." Breydice held back the urge to ask what 'convalescence' was. "I ask that you keep that detail quiet until we have more information."

Her hands fidgeted as she tried not to show her unease. Phelnia didn't make any sense as an assassination target - she was second in line with her twin as third. No one outside of the Primus royal family could lay claim to her titles, and no one in the royal family would have targeted her. If they'd wanted the queenship, it would've made more sense to kill Breydice or perhaps Roethye first. A foreign power that wanted to disrupt Primus? Perhaps, but it still would've made more sense to kill Breydice (the heir) or Roethye (the ruler.)

That meant a random act that Phelnia (or perhaps Varadia, which made even less sense) just happened to be the target of. And yet she'd been successfully hurt.

The implications were frightening.

"We can go whenever you're free."

---
Some time later

The royal palace was a repurposed castle, that much was obvious. It had been carved and built in a way that left it attached to the mountainside, and while the gates opened quickly on Breydice's instruction, it was still evident that the building had once been a stronghold that the city grew around. There was one road up to it, and its walls circled wide around the courtyard to attach to the walls. Breydice noted that the mountain's opposite side had been deliberately mined to collapse, so that it was now almost impossible for an army to ascend in proper armor.

Assaulting this place would have been an utter nightmare.

Breydice lead the Prince up a flight of stairs to the top of a tower, where they found a young woman just entering her twenties leaning against a door marked 'Phelnia'. The woman's hair was red like Breydice's, but where Breydice's was the smooth red of wine, this one's was the bold red of blood. Her weapon was a sickle of some sort, and her armor was the same material as Roethye's and Breydice's, only bright orange.

The girl opened one eye to look at Breydice and her guest. She grunted an affirmative and then let her eyes fall shut.

They then shot wide open as she looked at the Prince, glancing between him and Breydice. She opened her mouth.

"No, it's not your birthday." Breydice cut her off, the low growl in her voice indicating a great deal of irritation. "Yes, he is a foreign prince, yes, I brought him here to speak to Phelnia, and yes, he is blue. Now can you please open the door?

The woman nodded to the prince. "Varadia. A pleasure to meet you." Varadia knocked on the door. "Phel? You have a visitor."

A voice shaking and moving just a bit too fast answered. "No mom, I don't want to see a simurgh again. Go away."

"He's a prince."

"Go away, Marcus."

"He's also from Nand, and blue."

...

"Why did you bring some depressed foreigner to my room? I'm not gonna-"

"No she meant literally, his skin is blue."

There was the slide of a lock almost instantly.

Varadia nodded to Daras.

---

When he entered (if he did) he would notice that Phelnia had retreated to the opposite wall immediately upon his entrance. She looked identical to Varadia, except she bore a thin scar. It ran from her right temple, over her eye and down to her lips. Her eye wasn't gone, but both looked at her with all the fear of a cornered rabbit.

She spoke. "Y- you're from Nand?" Her previously frantic voice now held the slightest tinge of curiosity.


The two warriors of Nifhel looked between each other, nodding as they muttered a few words in their mother tongue before turning back to Roethye and raising a hand in greeting. Together they said in broken and thickly accented voices.

"N-n-not muh boat!"

And a small smile appeared on Fjöldadráp's face as he said what amounted to gibberish. Pulling on the chain, he kicked their slave forward and waited patiently as Kvöl started speaking to him in their barbarous tongue.

"Tell her that we have travelled far and wide to visit here, that we are Heralds of two of the four Great Clans of Nifhel, specifically Clan Jötenhel and Clan Hardrada. We will not be staying in any building they provide for us, as I have brought the only home we need. I am Kvöl of the Clan Hardrada and I ride in the stead of the Horsemen Pestilence. This is Fjöldadráp, and he rides in the stead of the Horsemen War. We have come to test the mettle of the lesser southerners."

Nodding his head meekly, the fishermen stared at the top of them rather oddly after what they initially said in the common tongue, but after getting over his initial shock quickly begins to transcribe what Kvöl said into a form that was comprehensible for the High Queen, stumbling and stuttering some of the words along the way. Fjöldadráp on the other hand said nothing, merely raising an eyebrow as he noticed Breydice staring at him intensely. A small grimace curled on his scowling rictus of a face as he leaned against his horse and stared back at her.

Breydice's fugue lasted up until the slave was kicked. At that point she snapped out of whatever she'd been feeling and looked at the fisherman.

... He was their translator. Not anyone's husband. But he was still chained up. And they could apparently beat him up without raising a fuss

... That meant slave.

Breydice felt her stomach turn. Conquest and combat was one thing, but slavery? Igor wore a leash, sure, but she'd never beat him. When her eyes locked back onto Fjöldadráp, her addled state of mind was gone, and her gaze was as cold iron once again.

... Okay maybe she stole some glances at those abs and had the barest tinge of a blush, but MOSTLY cold iron.

Roethye folded her arms and (through the translator) responded with, "I look forward to seeing how much of your confidence against 'lesser southerners' is justified. All events other than the mock naval battle will be held in the central coliseum."

[Tychris1]

Breydice's fugue lasted up until the slave was kicked. At that point she snapped out of whatever she'd been feeling and looked at the fisherman.

... He was their translator. Not anyone's husband. But he was still chained up. And they could apparently beat him up without raising a fuss

... That meant slave.

Breydice felt her stomach turn. Conquest and combat was one thing, but slavery? Igor wore a leash, sure, but she'd never beat him. When her eyes locked back onto Fjöldadráp, her addled state of mind was gone, and her gaze was as cold iron once again.

... Okay maybe she stole some glances at those abs and had the barest tinge of a blush, but MOSTLY cold iron.

Roethye folded her arms and (through the translator) responded with, "I look forward to seeing how much of your confidence against 'lesser southerners' is justified. All events other than the mock naval battle will be held in the central coliseum."

Nodding their heads in agreement, the two riders continued trotting forward towards the central coliseum, banner still waving behind them as their fishermen translator hastily paced to keep up. Giving Breydice one last lecherous stare, Fjöldadráp turned his head back to Kvöl and grunted. "I think the little minx wants some northern meat." he uttered before quickly receiving a tongue lashing from Kvöl "I don't care what you do with southern whores, just don't roll into my tent. Remember Fjöldadráp we're here on a scouting basis only. The Harbringer isn't looking to muddle the momentum of the crusade with these southerners."

Taking one of his swords out from his sheathe, Fjöldadráp raised it high and let out a wolfish howl as the prospect of physical combat became ever more real to him. Cutting open the cork ontop of the barrel he carried with him, he tilted it back and filled himself a mug of Nifhel Grog before quaffing it down.

Kvöl might have been here to do diplomacy for the Hardrada and scout for the Harbinger, but Fjöldadráp was here to win.


Participant: Fjöldadráp the Herald of War
Realm: Nifhel
Number of Regions: 4
GK/Fed: No

[TheDarkDM]

The Orm

Introductions concluded, the Orm drifted away from the Spring delegation and their runners and drifted deeper into the city. Catching sight of a pair of nanda trading words with a street vendor, she drifted into an alley and observed. The multicolored people of the south were held in high regard by the Aeldir, at least so far as was seemly, both for the immediate beauty of bodies and for their respectful dealings in the past with both Autumn and Spring. True, the past few years had seen their grand designs crumble in the face of reversal after reversal, but they were mighty enough. And the blood-tie they were forging with mysterious Krozna and ambitious Ambrose made them mightier still. Her black eyes followed their near-nakedness as they finished their exchange with the dirt-dweller of Primus and began to make their way towards a building that towered above all nearby. That, the Orm assumed, had to be the center of this grand exhibition. It stood to reason for it to be the center of the visiting delegations as well.


*****

An hour later, the Orm was completing her circuit through the neighborhood that surrounded the primal arena. She was forced to concede it impressive enough, if one could pull one's mind away from the stench, but it was of little concern to her. True, she was a warrior of renown in her homeland, but she had already met her match as a duelist. The warmth of the scar left by Lugh Anann's axeblade was a constant reminder of that. No, what concerned her were delegations large and small from lands wholly unknown to the Aeldir - savages from the far north, and representatives of what was rumored to be a vast demesne somewhere in the west. The brutal animals of Nifhel were a problem for the future, a matter to lay before the Courts entire, but this Jade Coalition intrigued her. They were but human, true, but they possessed a power and a dignity that the Aeldir had found sorely lacking in their cousins. A dignity that, perhaps, would prove worthy of the Demesne's respect.

With that hope held firmly in her mind, Danu Llaeth made her way to the chambers to the Jade Coalition's delegates, stopping with a quirk of lips pale and pink at the first sign of a guard. Unlike her lord, she and the Dullahan had been tasked with both learning and speaking the uncouth trade tongue that had come to unify the bounds of the known world. Her voice was high yet oddly sonorous, a sea wind riding high over the waves, suggesting even in the crude trade tongue the song of salt spray and clear skies.

"Greetings, people of the Coalition. I am Danu Llaeth, of the Aeldir of Winter, come in search of your leader. Might we exchange words, he and I?"

She had gleaned from talk about the other delegations that the Jade delegation was headed by an elder man, but naught else.

[Mary_Sue]

At the rear of the Spring delegation lurked a shadow. Neither armed nor armored, she had passed nigh-unnoticed in the wake of the fantastic animals and gregarious representatives that were Lady Autumn's vanguard, and little wonder that. For while she stood well clear of six feet tall she was garbed in a simple dress of black rosecloth, the sole ornamentation a subtle but sumptuous brocade of pearls in the shape of a twining serpent across her bosom. The play of muscle beneath the lily-white skin of her arms bespoke strength, but there was an ethereal wanness to her. The deceptive appearance of frailty common in the Winter Court, but oft mistaken as sickness elsewhere.

Pale silver hair hung in a long plait down her back, broken only by a pair of slender, short braids that framed her face. It was that face which held the only crack in the Winter Aeldir's ghostly beauty, a jagged red scar that traced its way from temple to mouth on her right side. Angry, broken veins crawled beneath the skin with every expression, a serpent of blood to match that of silver. An altogether unsettling portrait, but one that the other Aeldir found familiar. For she was Danu Llaeth, the Orm, lord captain of the Winter Fleet and third ranking member of the Winter Court. Here on direct command of her lord to watch over Lady Autumn and return with every tale she could muster of the barbarous west.

She watched in silence as introductions were made, as Lord Sand delivered the niceties of Lady Autumn that this besotted cow of a queen took as weakness. An expected reaction, and one that Lady Autumn was well capable of handling. In truth the Primus bored the Orm, and so her black eyes flicked across the mountain city in search of other delegations. Delegations, perhaps, more worthy of her attention.

Helia had been had been amusing herself since sucessfully procuring Maldarr for the queen. Sure that her services would not be needed for some time, at which thought she snickered to herself cheekily, she had decided to tour the marketplace now that she was not in a rush and it was bustling with morning business. The cool mountain breeze in her loose hair was pleasant, as it was to hear the busy chatter of the merchants haggling with potential customers as she strolled, looking at all the different wares, particularly tempted by the jewelry. She turned the corner as a particularly fine silver chain caught her attention and bumped hard into a woman who had been unnoticeable in the shadows and staggered.

The women was tall and regal in her austere beauty, without emotion in her eyes or her cold face, which was marred by a long scar. Helia interacted with many different people as her queen's chief emissary, but had never encountered anyone who set such a chill into her and she shivered ever so slightly, stammering apologetically.

"Oh I'm so clumsy! Please forgive me, M'Lady, I'm afraid I was not watching where I was going." Helia curstied deeply, embarrassed that she had been caught off guard, both by the jewelry and now by this intrepid creature.

"I am Helia Whitstone, of Avonlea. If you would be so kind as to tell me your name and delegation, I would be sure that you received reparations for your troubles." Helia's face blushed, she was sure this woman was of the Aeldir delegation, her queen would need to hear about her foible.
http://s5.favim.com/610/150201/deviantart-digital-art-elsa-fantasy-Favim.com-2436525.jpg


"I have all the time necessary." He relaxed into the cushions.

"The prince regent would like me to represent the kingdom's interests at the queen's court on a long-term basis, and hope to establish and build upon friendly relationships between our crowns," he explained. "Our contact with the east has been limited, but I gather we are not so distant that contact cannot be maintained - especially in light of the Aeldir conquests of most of the land separating us, whatever one may think of their doing so."

"It is quite unusual for a man to hold such an esteemed position in Avonlea, M'Lord." Helia said thoughtfully after sipping her wine, her eyes drawn back to man's long blue hair.

"But perhaps a concession may be made for a foreigner, I'm sure we will be able to come to an arrangement, my Queen is in favour of good relations." The other five handmaidens giggled at this, helia joining in after a moment,

"Well of course she would be, why would she be in favour of poor relations? Silly me." She shook her head at her own frivolity and sipped her wine as she chuckled.

[Reggiejam]

Roethye stared at him for a few moments. She then pinched her nose and lowered her head.

She was wrong, this wasn't glorious. It was just sad.

"Afraid of being executed, yet she sends an entire party of Spring in her place... Unbelievable... I'm not going to beg her to respond to my invitation. She can get her sorry ass up here or cower in Ambrose, I don't care."


"What was that?" Sand asked, cupping a hand to his ear, "I'm sorry High Queen but I couldn't quite make that out, you were mumbling? Ah! I shall be sure your message is carried back verbatim most eloquent High Queen of Primus! It confounds me so why the Autumn Court calls yours the lands of the primates when such moving discourse is the norm!" the Duke was enjoying himself now, smiling with all the sincerity of an overeager ten year old child though his eyes were far sharper.

"You must excuse me, most royal grace, I must pen this letter at once before the vivid imagery of Primal poetics slips my mind! Lady Owena," he turned towards the Spring Court girl atop the Salvax, "Please excuse me, I must prepare this letter, perhaps the Primal Queen would be interested in the Salvax?" he leaned in for a stage whisper, a move taught by Fantastigorian playwrights, "I suspect they may have overlapping traditions of hygiene that might be a good point for discussion."

With that Sand turned back to Roethye and gave a grand elaborate bow before darting off back the way the procession had come, disappearing amongst the taller crowds of people.



When Cynel received the letter from Duke Sand she had laughed loud enough that a Summer Ranger had come to make sure she had not shouted. Primus was no place to fear, beyond the stench at least. Besides, the Rose Courts had business to attend to and there was no accounting for venue sometimes. The procession that had stayed behind in Ambrose was soon moving forward again, into the Primus Imperium and to conversations with those deserving of conversation.




Aeldir

Seeing that some of the northern island folk had arrived, Daras made his way to them with a minimal guard, and waited as his herald made the necessary introduction, before politely enquiring if Lady Autumn had yet arrived.


Duke Sand had been writing in his observational journal of Primus when the herald announced the Nand ambassador. It had been a few hours since he'd dispatched the letter to Lady Autumn and he assumed it wouldn't be much long until she arrived. She had given him authority to begin the discussions of the agreement that had been negotiated over the course of years earlier and so he leapt to his feet, closed his book and moved to greet the Nand.

"Prince Daras, welcome," Duke Sand bowed curtly, "I'm afraid Lady Autumn is not here yet though she should be soon. Assuming this isn't a social call however, I believe I can attend to at least the preliminary discussions relating to matter at hand? Of course, if you'd prefer to wait for the Lady I shall have a runner ready to inform you at her arrival."



Chesuka of Luska

It hadn't taken long after Lady Autumn's arrival in Valkyrie to hear the rumors that the Luskan rebel leader Chesuka and her band had arrived ahead of her and were now in the streets. A Summer adviser had advised this to be a perfect opportunity for an assassination, either against or by Autumn, but Cynel had ignored him. In fact there had been, through complicated and none-too-official channels correspondence between the Autumn Court and the Luskan Rebels and invitation had been extended to meet here at neutral ground of Valkyrie to discuss matters. It seemed that invitation had been accepted.

While Lady Autumn removed herself to the guest housing provided to join Duke Sand an Autumn runner was dispatched to find the Luskans. It hadn't taken terribly long for him to find them, they were making little effort to blend in and Primus was heaping great honors and laurels upon them, doubtless in an attempt to snub the Aeldir. If the runner had known what was to occur he might have smiled but he was only informed to find the Luskans and he had done that.

"Excuse me," he began, trying to gain Chesuka's attention, as she turned he held up his hands open palmed to show his peaceful intent, "My Lady Autumn would like to speak with you. Will you follow me?"

[QuintonBeck]

Derris chuckled ruefully,

"I'm afraid it's much the same for me, it's difficult to picture lands you've never seen. Would a diplomatic delegation from Ambrose be welcomed in your lands?" He asked thoughtfully, it could only be beneficial to see the northern lands of their continent. Perhaps a permanent ambassador might be arranged eventually.

"I should like to know a little more about Ambrose before I agreed," Leonard spoke carefully, "Firstly, what is the history of your realm? How was it formed? What of recent history?"


The Orm

An hour later, the Orm was completing her circuit through the neighborhood that surrounded the primal arena. She was forced to concede it impressive enough, if one could pull one's mind away from the stench, but it was of little concern to her. True, she was a warrior of renown in her homeland, but she had already met her match as a duelist. The warmth of the scar left by Lugh Anann's axeblade was a constant reminder of that. No, what concerned her were delegations large and small from lands wholly unknown to the Aeldir - savages from the far north, and representatives of what was rumored to be a vast demesne somewhere in the west. The brutal animals of Nifhel were a problem for the future, a matter to lay before the Courts entire, but this Jade Coalition intrigued her. They were but human, true, but they possessed a power and a dignity that the Aeldir had found sorely lacking in their cousins. A dignity that, perhaps, would prove worthy of the Demesne's respect.

With that hope held firmly in her mind, Danu Llaeth made her way to the chambers to the Jade Coalition's delegates, stopping with a quirk of lips pale and pink at the first sign of a guard. Unlike her lord, she and the Dullahan had been tasked with both learning and speaking the uncouth trade tongue that had come to unify the bounds of the known world. Her voice was high yet oddly sonorous, a sea wind riding high over the waves, suggesting even in the crude trade tongue the song of salt spray and clear skies.

"Greetings, people of the Coalition. I am Danu Llaeth, of the Aeldir of Winter, come in search of your leader. Might we exchange words, he and I?"

She had gleaned from talk about the other delegations that the Jade delegation was headed by an elder man, but naught else.

Leonard had been on his way back from watching the duels and speaking with the Ambrosan when he saw the tall dark dressed woman, pale as a fresh coat of snow standing, looming might be more appropriate, outside his chambers. He caught her voice as she inquired with the guards outside and he approached, answering as he did.

"Leader of the Coalition I am not, but I am head of this delegation. How may I help you?" as he drew nearer Leonard noted the pointed ears and otherworldly shape and complexion of the stranger and faltered for a moment in his step, but pressed on regardless until he was within conversational range.

[HalfTangible]

"What was that?" Sand asked, cupping a hand to his ear, "I'm sorry High Queen but I couldn't quite make that out, you were mumbling? Ah! I shall be sure your message is carried back verbatim most eloquent High Queen of Primus! It confounds me so why the Autumn Court calls yours the lands of the primates when such moving discourse is the norm!" the Duke was enjoying himself now, smiling with all the sincerity of an overeager ten year old child though his eyes were far sharper.

"You must excuse me, most royal grace, I must pen this letter at once before the vivid imagery of Primal poetics slips my mind! Lady Owena," he turned towards the Spring Court girl atop the Salvax, "Please excuse me, I must prepare this letter, perhaps the Primal Queen would be interested in the Salvax?" he leaned in for a stage whisper, a move taught by Fantastigorian playwrights, "I suspect they may have overlapping traditions of hygiene that might be a good point for discussion."

With that Sand turned back to Roethye and gave a grand elaborate bow before darting off back the way the procession had come, disappearing amongst the taller crowds of people.

Roethye inspected her fingernails. "I only talk this way when I must deal with frightened children." To Roethye's credit, she did sound very bored for someone who had just been insulted. "Feel free to make camp within the walls, if you wish to wait for Lady Autumn to come herself."

---

Breydice - ever stone-faced throughout the discussion - waited until they had left earshot before she burst out laughing. "Oh... oh gods... she stayed behind because of the smell?!" She doubled over, clutching her stomach. "WHY were we ever worried about these pathetic losers?!"

"She didn't, she stayed because she was afraid we would assassinate her." Roethye said dryly. "The Autumn courts are not to be underestimated. They are the Rose court's diplomatic arm, they have no need to fight."

"DIPLOMATS?!" Breydice wiped a tear from her eye. "Mother, that makes it worse. It's one thing if a diplomat can't handle blood or the ringing of steel, it's another if she can't so much as handle a little stink. It's not like we live in a land of skunks."

Roethye raised an eyebrow. "You take her at her word. You are exactly the kind of prey a diplomat takes advantage of."

"And you are overly rude and bitchy to her and her minions." Breydice pointed out. "Making you a prime target for smears."

"Smears do not work against someone you are already publicly hostile towards." Roethye said calmly, gesturing for a tankard of cocoa. "If the Autumn Courts lie about us, no one will believe them because her hostility to us is well-established."

"Or it'll be more believable, since you're also hostile to her." Breydice's smile faded. "... But... then there's a positive and negative either way."

Roethye smirked at her daughter. "Ah, see? Now you're getting it. Diplomacy is rarely a game of who's right and wrong, but more often weighing potential benefits to your people with their costs. The Lady Autumn was hostile to me from our first meeting, there was little I could do about that. So I simply made it clear we hate her too."

"... So what?"

"So now, the diplomats of the Aeldir can't even try to get into our nation through open channels and any underhanded tactic they try will simply be seen as a continuation of a petty grudge." Roethye sipped her cocoa. "Oh granted, it'll be my petty grudge too, but let them think me petty. I have no need for good diplomatic relations with my enemies - I'm a warrior queen."

"... And if they attempt to ease relations? Make a show of solidarity?"

Roethye stopped drinking her cocoa. She turned to look her daughter dead in the eye. "Breydice, if Lady Autumn swallows her pride enough to try and make nice with Primus, I swear to you I will swallow my own halberd."

The Princess laughed.

...

"... Could... such a thing exist? A land of skunks, i mean?"
"Just to the south of us is a land of monks and blood-seers. I don't see why not...... I mean they probably won't be the ONLY thing there, but I could easily see a place with a lot of 'em."

[Kasanip]

Roethye burst out laughing. "Luskan, I'll freely admit I know too little about you to care if you live or die. But I'm open for any opportunity to snub Lady Autumn." She spread her arms wide. "Consider this place asylum, if need be. I gladly offer my hospitality."

Breydice glanced at her mother. "Shall we offer them troops as well, Mother?"

"Eh, probably not. We don't have any way to get them there other than marching through Ambrose, and I'm pretty sure they'd be pissed about that. And if our troops can't survive the desert, they definitely can't survive THAT march."

Breydice sighed. "Pity." She turned to the Luskans. "So long as you do not start the trouble, you have nothing to fear from us."

Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, Roethye, Breydice

Chesuka made a raccoon dog expression.
"We are grateful for your hospitality." She curtsied. Alysha and Mevo also politely curtsied.
"Someday, I hope that the distance between may not seem so far." Chesuka said. "I think I would like to come here again sometime."


Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon
Chesuka had been enjoying the festival atmosphere, and with encouraging it seemed Mevo was relaxing, too. Of course making a ripple of waves was not subtle, but that was the plan.
It had been learned the Autumn Court was surprisingly shy to come, however after to meet the Queen of Primus, Chesuka understood.

"Are you trying to let the Autumn Court find you?" Alysha asked as they sat together on a balcony from the luxurious room. Chesuka nodded as she looked down with distraction.
"Yes." She said simply. "It's taking them a long time, though. I wonder if we were too stealthy?" Chesuka frowned.
"Of course, no." Alysha said.
For a minute Chesuka didn't answer, because a runner had been seen. She made a raccoon dog expression and stood. Soon Choko was riding on her shoulder.
"Well, let's go to the streets. I think I see a messenger."
The three Luskans lithely jumped down the stone stairs and hurried outside.



Chesuka of Luska

It hadn't taken long after Lady Autumn's arrival in Valkyrie to hear the rumors that the Luskan rebel leader Chesuka and her band had arrived ahead of her and were now in the streets. A Summer adviser had advised this to be a perfect opportunity for an assassination, either against or by Autumn, but Cynel had ignored him. In fact there had been, through complicated and none-too-official channels correspondence between the Autumn Court and the Luskan Rebels and invitation had been extended to meet here at neutral ground of Valkyrie to discuss matters. It seemed that invitation had been accepted.

While Lady Autumn removed herself to the guest housing provided to join Duke Sand an Autumn runner was dispatched to find the Luskans. It hadn't taken terribly long for him to find them, they were making little effort to blend in and Primus was heaping great honors and laurels upon them, doubtless in an attempt to snub the Aeldir. If the runner had known what was to occur he might have smiled but he was only informed to find the Luskans and he had done that.

"Excuse me," he began, trying to gain Chesuka's attention, as she turned he held up his hands open palmed to show his peaceful intent, "My Lady Autumn would like to speak with you. Will you follow me?"


Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, Autumn Runner
Chesuka looked surprised as the Aeldir runner spoke. Of course that was an act, but to be polite to a messenger's duty.
"Lady Autumn?" She made a serious expression and touched Choko lightly. It was an act maybe, but subtle as always. Then she turned to hand Choko to Mevo. Choko squirmed but couldn't escape Mevo's hand.
"Behave, Choko." Chesuka said with a smile. Choko stared with a raccoon dog expression and stopped to squirm. Mevo frowned very strongly. However surprisingly Alysha only seemed curious.
Chesuka regarded her two friends as if to ask "Are you ready?" To receive their silent affirmation, she turned to the Aeldir messenger.
"We will follow. Let us go."

[Reggiejam]

Chesuka, Choko, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, Autumn Runner
Chesuka looked surprised as the Aeldir runner spoke. Of course that was an act, but to be polite to a messenger's duty.
"Lady Autumn?" She made a serious expression and touched Choko lightly. It was an act maybe, but subtle as always. Then she turned to hand Choko to Mevo. Choko squirmed but couldn't escape Mevo's hand.
"Behave, Choko." Chesuka said with a smile. Choko stared with a raccoon dog expression and stopped to squirm. Mevo frowned very strongly. However surprisingly Alysha only seemed curious.
Chesuka regarded her two friends as if to ask "Are you ready?" To receive their silent affirmation, she turned to the Aeldir messenger.
"We will follow. Let us go."

The Aeldir nodded in silence and led the Luskans back the way he'd come. They arrived in the guest housing district of Primus and wound their way through the streets until they reached the somewhat secluded spot the Aeldir were inhabiting. Whether chosen by Lady Autumn to avoid extensive contact with Primus and the other guests or a relegated position of difficult navigation and insult arranged by Roethye was unclear. The messenger stopped outside a door leading into Lady Autumn's salon and inclined his head slightly towards the Summer Rangers outside who nodded their recognition and opened the doors. The runner stepped aside to reveal the room's interior and allow Chesuka and her fellows to enter.

The room was by and large still of Primus style, the Aeldir having had little time, even if they had plenty of inclination, to redecorate and it's warrior-queendom aesthetic seemed at odds with Lady Autumn's matronly appearance. Cynel was sitting on a couch facing the door and an array of chairs and other couches were circled around a forged steel table covered with documents and maps. As the Luskans entered Cynel looked up and smiled.

"Ah, Chesuka," the Aeldir woman stood up, "You are not an easy woman to find. I am glad this meeting at Valkyrie could be arranged. Please, sit. Would any of you like refreshments? I have brought some Marigold Rose nectar with me. Sweet and satisfying," Cynel gestured to another Autumn Aeldir who had been standing quietly behind the central lighting of the table and seating who stepped forward with a tray set with delicately carved wooden cups filled with an orange, warm, sweet-smelling drink.

[moossabi]

Arrival
After arriving on a small merchant vessel in Ambrose, the Dhuda Loka (lead by Oshenvar) took an extra-long time to arrive in Primas due to the slowness of their mounts. By the time the Nadi Suana (mounts) reached the mountainous terrain, they were exhausted and could go no further. And so, the party left their mounts at a small inn, paying the owner with the luminous blue mushrooms so commonly found in Dhuda Besina. More was promised upon the Dhuda Loka's return, and with such a rare commodity in his hands the innkeeper swore to protect the mounts. After meeting up with the knights, the party staunchly refused the weapons offered, as it went against everything that they held sacred. As the people were passed, the Dhuda Loka grew saddened by the lack of value for life and the obvious lack of respect for both genders. Due to a late arrival, when the assemblage reached Valkyrie all other dignitaries had entered the city for the festivities. After asking for directions to where Lady Autumn was staying, Oshenvar and two others broke off from the group to pay their Aeldir friend a visit.

Lady Autumn/Aeldir
Arriving where Lady Autumn was staying, Oshenvar greeted the Summer Aeldir guard in the trade tongue. "Greetings, fellow Aeldir. I would like to request the privilege to speak with your Lady? Vinariun left the summit so soon and with many stories, and so I would like to inquire more as to the nature of our races."

Oshenvar, being young as he is, looks like he is the human equivalent of nineteen years old. He has the pale skin of every Dhuda Loka, and unkempt black hair. He is wearing the traditional attire of every Uca Jajaka, and if you want the specific details, here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19891684&postcount=33) is my region write-up.

[Kasanip]

The Aeldir nodded in silence and led the Luskans back the way he'd come. They arrived in the guest housing district of Primus and wound their way through the streets until they reached the somewhat secluded spot the Aeldir were inhabiting. Whether chosen by Lady Autumn to avoid extensive contact with Primus and the other guests or a relegated position of difficult navigation and insult arranged by Roethye was unclear. The messenger stopped outside a door leading into Lady Autumn's salon and inclined his head slightly towards the Summer Rangers outside who nodded their recognition and opened the doors. The runner stepped aside to reveal the room's interior and allow Chesuka and her fellows to enter.

The room was by and large still of Primus style, the Aeldir having had little time, even if they had plenty of inclination, to redecorate and it's warrior-queendom aesthetic seemed at odds with Lady Autumn's matronly appearance. Cynel was sitting on a couch facing the door and an array of chairs and other couches were circled around a forged steel table covered with documents and maps. As the Luskans entered Cynel looked up and smiled.

"Ah, Chesuka," the Aeldir woman stood up, "You are not an easy woman to find. I am glad this meeting at Valkyrie could be arranged. Please, sit. Would any of you like refreshments? I have brought some Marigold Rose nectar with me. Sweet and satisfying," Cynel gestured to another Autumn Aeldir who had been standing quietly behind the central lighting of the table and seating who stepped forward with a tray set with delicately carved wooden cups filled with an orange, warm, sweet-smelling drink.

Chesuka, Alysha, Washington, Mevo, Solomon, Choko, the Aeldir, Lady Autumn
The three Luskans walked quietly. There was nothing to be said, even though their styles were different. Chesuka was cheerfully keeping the light pace, but Alysha walked behind knowing that her friend's cheerful mood was being strength and confidence for her friends. So Alysha walked in silence promising to be strong. Mevo was struggling to stay silent, because she was frustrated at the same feeling of Alysha. Helplessness was the opposite of a seagull clan's style of action. However, it was because she had heard Chesuka share her deep secrets and ambitions. Even though they were walking towards danger. Chesuka was determined, so Mevo was determined, too.
To arrive at the guest house, the doors were opened by the Summer Rangers and Chesuka nodded to Alysha and Mevo.
"Wait here." She said with a raccoon dog expression. Alysha and Mevo nodded. Washington glared from Alysha's arms as if to say "Don't hurt Alysha with your actions!" Solomon looked ready to fly away as always. Choko squirmed in Mevo's arms frantically. And for one second, Chesuka's expression almost fell, but she forced the smile brightly.
"Choko, I will be back very soon. I promise." Choko didn't seem to care, but paused enough for Chesuka to turn to the door, meeting the eyes of her friends again.

Entering the room with a confident expression and cheerful steps she casually regarded the room, before to meet the gaze of Lady Autumn. Even though they were smiling, the room was not a warm glow of summer.

As the doors closed, Chesuka was not Luskan. She was only Chesuka.
Since the masquerade party it had been enough years that she was a young adult now. Still with charming and youthful features and the embroidered robes of her clan and headband. She was not wearing the clothes of a priestess today. She could regard Lady Autumn without a mask for the first time. In this way, it was a polite meeting.
She is pretty. Beautiful like a teacher, or mother maybe. Although surrounded by weapons of war, she is different completely. Was the first impression.

"It has been several years, Lady Autumn." She replied with a cheerful smile and sat across from the Aeldir ruler. "It is nice, you seem to be in good health. Thank you for the offer. I will be happy to drink together. It has been a long time since we last drank together." Reaching to her satchel, Chesuka revealed a gourd wrapped with woven cloth in a pattern of dolphins.
"I remembered you liked the taste of wine. Although it was a short time, I was proud such a brewing had come from my family. Therefore I thought to bring some for you as a memory of that time." She offered the gourd to the servant, to pass to the Lady Autumn.

[Aedilred]

Roethye nodded. "That's good, we've got plenty of meat for the few days the tournament will take. I'll get out of your way, let me know if you require anything further."
"Very well then, thank you." She indicated for the group to dismount and - less the prince - head off in the direction of their accommodation.


"Attempted murder which got far luckier than it ever should have. We're looking into it." Breydice held back the urge to ask what 'convalescence' was. "I ask that you keep that detail quiet until we have more information."

Her hands fidgeted as she tried not to show her unease. Phelnia didn't make any sense as an assassination target - she was second in line with her twin as third. No one outside of the Primus royal family could lay claim to her titles, and no one in the royal family would have targeted her. If they'd wanted the queenship, it would've made more sense to kill Breydice or perhaps Roethye first. A foreign power that wanted to disrupt Primus? Perhaps, but it still would've made more sense to kill Breydice (the heir) or Roethye (the ruler.)

That meant a random act that Phelnia (or perhaps Varadia, which made even less sense) just happened to be the target of. And yet she'd been successfully hurt.

The implications were frightening.

"We can go whenever you're free."

---
Some time later

The royal palace was a repurposed castle, that much was obvious. It had been carved and built in a way that left it attached to the mountainside, and while the gates opened quickly on Breydice's instruction, it was still evident that the building had once been a stronghold that the city grew around. There was one road up to it, and its walls circled wide around the courtyard to attach to the walls. Breydice noted that the mountain's opposite side had been deliberately mined to collapse, so that it was now almost impossible for an army to ascend in proper armor.

Assaulting this place would have been an utter nightmare.

Breydice lead the Prince up a flight of stairs to the top of a tower, where they found a young woman just entering her twenties leaning against a door marked 'Phelnia'. The woman's hair was red like Breydice's, but where Breydice's was the smooth red of wine, this one's was the bold red of blood. Her weapon was a sickle of some sort, and her armor was the same material as Roethye's and Breydice's, only bright orange.

The girl opened one eye to look at Breydice and her guest. She grunted an affirmative and then let her eyes fall shut.

They then shot wide open as she looked at the Prince, glancing between him and Breydice. She opened her mouth.

"No, it's not your birthday." Breydice cut her off, the low growl in her voice indicating a great deal of irritation. "Yes, he is a foreign prince, yes, I brought him here to speak to Phelnia, and yes, he is blue. Now can you please open the door?

The woman nodded to the prince. "Varadia. A pleasure to meet you." Varadia knocked on the door. "Phel? You have a visitor."

A voice shaking and moving just a bit too fast answered. "No mom, I don't want to see a simurgh again. Go away."

"He's a prince."

"Go away, Marcus."

"He's also from Nand, and blue."

...

"Why did you bring some depressed foreigner to my room? I'm not gonna-"

"No she meant literally, his skin is blue."

There was the slide of a lock almost instantly.

Varadia nodded to Daras.

---

When he entered (if he did) he would notice that Phelnia had retreated to the opposite wall immediately upon his entrance. She looked identical to Varadia, except she bore a thin scar. It ran from her right temple, over her eye and down to her lips. Her eye wasn't gone, but both looked at her with all the fear of a cornered rabbit.

She spoke. "Y- you're from Nand?" Her previously frantic voice now held the slightest tinge of curiosity.

Daras was no stranger to the idea of political assassinations even against those of royal blood: he was after all just about old enough to remember poor Queen Eraneh, though he could barely recall her appearance now, and this was after all only Primus, rather than a civilised land, but there was still something sacrosanct about royalty and the idea of assaults upon them was enough to warm his blood at least, if not quite boil it. He followed them to the princess's chamber and listened to the rather strange conversation before entering.

"I am, my lady," he said in response to her question, showing no outward sign of surprise or revulsion at her appearance, and giving a polite bow. "I was sorry to hear of the outrages committed against you."


"It is quite unusual for a man to hold such an esteemed position in Avonlea, M'Lord." Helia said thoughtfully after sipping her wine, her eyes drawn back to man's long blue hair.

"But perhaps a concession may be made for a foreigner, I'm sure we will be able to come to an arrangement, my Queen is in favour of good relations." The other five handmaidens giggled at this, helia joining in after a moment,

"Well of course she would be, why would she be in favour of poor relations? Silly me." She shook her head at her own frivolity and sipped her wine as she chuckled.
"Ah yes, so I have heard," Reza said, accepting a glass of wine and giving another broad smile. "Alas, the majority of our people do not thrive in foreign lands, so the pool from which representatives can be chosen is thin. In Nand, both men and women are treated equally in such respects, and it was believed I was the best candidate for the position - or at least the best one who would accept the job. I don't know how many turned it down before I accepted, though they would have been mad to do so."

It was mostly true, though he was also aware that his sex was, somewhat counterintuitively, seen as something of an asset in this diplomatic mission. While a woman might initially be more respected, she would ultimately be just another woman at the Avonlea court, whereas he - if accepted, and as a foreigner he was not seeking office under the queen, only a degree of access, after all - would have something of an air of exoticism, not to mention the extra diplomatic avenues an unmarried man could pursue among such company.

"This wine is excellent," he said. "Is it from Avonlea, or do you import from abroad?"


Duke Sand had been writing in his observational journal of Primus when the herald announced the Nand ambassador. It had been a few hours since he'd dispatched the letter to Lady Autumn and he assumed it wouldn't be much long until she arrived. She had given him authority to begin the discussions of the agreement that had been negotiated over the course of years earlier and so he leapt to his feet, closed his book and moved to greet the Nand.

"Prince Daras, welcome," Duke Sand bowed curtly, "I'm afraid Lady Autumn is not here yet though she should be soon. Assuming this isn't a social call however, I believe I can attend to at least the preliminary discussions relating to matter at hand? Of course, if you'd prefer to wait for the Lady I shall have a runner ready to inform you at her arrival."

"I am happy to deal with whoever is competent to handle the necessaries without inconveniencing Lady Autumn," he said, "though if she wishes to handle matters in person I am happy to wait." This business was after all why Daras was here at all, so there was no point standing on his dignity at this stage and risk offending or inconveniencing the Aeldir into the bargain.

[Gengy]

Roethye inspected her fingernails. "I only talk this way when I must deal with frightened children." To Roethye's credit, she did sound very bored for someone who had just been insulted. "Feel free to make camp within the walls, if you wish to wait for Lady Autumn to come herself."

From atop Pride, Owena nodded her head in respect. "I would hope, Your Highness, that Lady Aeluta has proven that the Spring Court is neither frightened nor children, no matter our appearance."

Sliding down from the white tiger, Owena curtsied, and presented herself and her guests. "Queen Roethye, Lady Spring sends her regards, and also her regrets. With the recent establishment of a colony in the Land of the Golden Boar - what we of the Aeldir call Tir Or-Torc - combined with several mysteries to do with Tir Xungla and our friends within Fantastigoria, my Lady finds herself quite busy. I am also instructed to say that: 'travelling with Lady Autumn for an extended period would be exactly what you would expect it to be.'

"Having experienced it, I find this to be true," smiling a coy grin, Owena reflected upon the weeks of time with the Lady Autumn, and had personally enjoyed the time travelling with such a fine and prestigious Aeldir. She had found that the Lady Autumn was everything and more than what she had heard, and was privately wondering why Lady Spring had given her such explicit instructions as to what to say when expressing her regrets to their host. However, Lady Spring had been quite clear about it, so Owena had been very happy to be of aid.

::Patience:: Owena more felt, rather than heard, Pride speaking. It was like listening for an emotion, but you had to have the ears for it. The Spring Aeldir was feeling a large amount of patience from the white tiger, and then... it was suddenly gone. The Salvax was getting bored and impatient in this spot. It was the closest thing to a complaint that Owena had heard from the otherwise easy going tiger.

::Caution:: Prejudice, on the other hand, was busy twisting her head from side to side, surveying everything, and urging Owena to be careful. The Spring Aeldir was interpreting this to mean that the elephant didn't like their surroundings - too many possible enemies or places for surprise - and was trying to urge Pride back to being more patient. Owena took both hints, and decided to move things along.

"Your Highness, forgive me for not doing so sooner, but allow me to introduce my companions from the Salvax of Tir Xungla." Waving one hand towards the tiger, Owena continued, "This is the Bas of the South Hunt, Pride. You might consider him a Duke. Tasked by the Salvax Ri - the Wild Lord - it is his job to see to the feeding and care of all the Salvax within the Southern parts of the island. He has counterparts to the North, the East, and there would be one to the West, but that Bas has recently passed of old age. When we left Tir Xungla, the Salvax Ri was supervising a... tournament, of sorts, to determine the leadership of the area between the Bas of the West Hunt's heirs.

Pride has graciously allowed me to learn from him, and I can interpret for him if you wish to hold a conversation. The same is also true of the lady Salvax with us, the Warchod of the South Nest, Prejudice. To her falls the responsibilities of keeping the Bas of the South Hunt safe, and seeing to the safety of those within the southern area of the island. People would do well to consider her of the same status as a military strategist, for I have seen her perform much the same capacities, and do so quite well."

"Bas Pride, Warchod Prejudice, may I present the Alpha of the Alphas of these lands, our hostess, High Queen Roethye."

::Humble. Caution. Respect.:: Prejudice chuffed and inclined her body down on one knee, briefly, before standing back up; her version of a bow.

::Interest. Disinterest.:: The flash of interest that Owena received from Bas Pride was brief, replaced by a mask of boredom and feigned disinterest. There was, however, a modicum of Respect as well as the white tiger Salvax sat down upon his haunches, before lying down completely and beginning to groom himself. Owena knew, from long dealings with Bas Pride, that this was the closest he got to showing deference. After all... he was mostly a giant cat. He expected - and received - respect from everyone. The only ones he acted differently around was the Salvax Ri, and oddly, Lady Autumn. Owena suspected that Lady Spring or the Seasonal Lords might elicit a similar reaction, but privately found it odd - yet understood - that Queen Roethye was not getting the same treatment. Pride flicked his eyes to look over Roethye briefly, and Owena 'heard' ::Adequate.::

"They offer their respects to you, your Highness."



Breydice - ever stone-faced throughout the discussion - waited until they had left earshot before she burst out laughing. "Oh... oh gods... she stayed behind because of the smell?!" She doubled over, clutching her stomach. "WHY were we ever worried about these pathetic losers?!"

"She didn't, she stayed because she was afraid we would assassinate her." Roethye said dryly. "The Autumn courts are not to be underestimated. They are the Rose court's diplomatic arm, they have no need to fight."

"DIPLOMATS?!" Breydice wiped a tear from her eye. "Mother, that makes it worse. It's one thing if a diplomat can't handle blood or the ringing of steel, it's another if she can't so much as handle a little stink. It's not like we live in a land of skunks."

Roethye raised an eyebrow. "You take her at her word. You are exactly the kind of prey a diplomat takes advantage of."

"And you are overly rude and bitchy to her and her minions." Breydice pointed out. "Making you a prime target for smears."

"Smears do not work against someone you are already publicly hostile towards." Roethye said calmly, gesturing for a tankard of cocoa. "If the Autumn Courts lie about us, no one will believe them because her hostility to us is well-established."

"Or it'll be more believable, since you're also hostile to her." Breydice's smile faded. "... But... then there's a positive and negative either way."

Roethye smirked at her daughter. "Ah, see? Now you're getting it. Diplomacy is rarely a game of who's right and wrong, but more often weighing potential benefits to your people with their costs. The Lady Autumn was hostile to me from our first meeting, there was little I could do about that. So I simply made it clear we hate her too."

"... So what?"

"So now, the diplomats of the Aeldir can't even try to get into our nation through open channels and any underhanded tactic they try will simply be seen as a continuation of a petty grudge." Roethye sipped her cocoa. "Oh granted, it'll be my petty grudge too, but let them think me petty. I have no need for good diplomatic relations with my enemies - I'm a warrior queen."

"... And if they attempt to ease relations? Make a show of solidarity?"

Roethye stopped drinking her cocoa. She turned to look her daughter dead in the eye. "Breydice, if Lady Autumn swallows her pride enough to try and make nice with Primus, I swear to you I will swallow my own halberd."

The Princess laughed.

...

"... Could... such a thing exist? A land of skunks, i mean?"
"Just to the south of us is a land of monks and blood-seers. I don't see why not...... I mean they probably won't be the ONLY thing there, but I could easily see a place with a lot of 'em."

((OOC: Responding to this with permission from HT))

"Though I know not of a land of skunks," a small voice said, with a perfect Primus accent, "I can assure both the Lady Queen and Lady Princess that nothing we Aeldir do is underhanded. It is quite open, for those with the eyes to see such actions."

Dressed in a small, formal court dress from Primus that appears to have been custom tailored, Aleuta was suddenly standing by Roethye. Aleuta has had many years to learn the hiding spots and the unseen places of Primus, and she now enjoyed the great game she could play while away from her home. "And if the dealings with the Gesh and Luskans are to be believed, might I once again caution you, Lady Queen, that enemies of the Aeldir are dealt with swiftly and with few mercies; much better to make friends, yes? Though, as your friend, I would do everything I could to make sure that any halberds you swallow are edible."

[HalfTangible]

From atop Pride, Owena nodded her head in respect. "I would hope, Your Highness, that Lady Aeluta has proven that the Spring Court is neither frightened nor children, no matter our appearance."

Sliding down from the white tiger, Owena curtsied, and presented herself and her guests. "Queen Roethye, Lady Spring sends her regards, and also her regrets. With the recent establishment of a colony in the Land of the Golden Boar - what we of the Aeldir call Tir Or-Torc - combined with several mysteries to do with Tir Xungla and our friends within Fantastigoria, my Lady finds herself quite busy. I am also instructed to say that: 'travelling with Lady Autumn for an extended period would be exactly what you would expect it to be.'

"Having experienced it, I find this to be true," smiling a coy grin, Owena reflected upon the weeks of time with the Lady Autumn, and had personally enjoyed the time travelling with such a fine and prestigious Aeldir. She had found that the Lady Autumn was everything and more than what she had heard, and was privately wondering why Lady Spring had given her such explicit instructions as to what to say when expressing her regrets to their host. However, Lady Spring had been quite clear about it, so Owena had been very happy to be of aid.

::Patience:: Owena more felt, rather than heard, Pride speaking. It was like listening for an emotion, but you had to have the ears for it. The Spring Aeldir was feeling a large amount of patience from the white tiger, and then... it was suddenly gone. The Salvax was getting bored and impatient in this spot. It was the closest thing to a complaint that Owena had heard from the otherwise easy going tiger.

::Caution:: Prejudice, on the other hand, was busy twisting her head from side to side, surveying everything, and urging Owena to be careful. The Spring Aeldir was interpreting this to mean that the elephant didn't like their surroundings - too many possible enemies or places for surprise - and was trying to urge Pride back to being more patient. Owena took both hints, and decided to move things along.

"Your Highness, forgive me for not doing so sooner, but allow me to introduce my companions from the Salvax of Tir Xungla." Waving one hand towards the tiger, Owena continued, "This is the Bas of the South Hunt, Pride. You might consider him a Duke. Tasked by the Salvax Ri - the Wild Lord - it is his job to see to the feeding and care of all the Salvax within the Southern parts of the island. He has counterparts to the North, the East, and there would be one to the West, but that Bas has recently passed of old age. When we left Tir Xungla, the Salvax Ri was supervising a... tournament, of sorts, to determine the leadership of the area between the Bas of the West Hunt's heirs.

Pride has graciously allowed me to learn from him, and I can interpret for him if you wish to hold a conversation. The same is also true of the lady Salvax with us, the Warchod of the South Nest, Prejudice. To her falls the responsibilities of keeping the Bas of the South Hunt safe, and seeing to the safety of those within the southern area of the island. People would do well to consider her of the same status as a military strategist, for I have seen her perform much the same capacities, and do so quite well."

"Bas Pride, Warchod Prejudice, may I present the Alpha of the Alphas of these lands, our hostess, High Queen Roethye."

::Humble. Caution. Respect.:: Prejudice chuffed and inclined her body down on one knee, briefly, before standing back up; her version of a bow.

::Interest. Disinterest.:: The flash of interest that Owena received from Bas Pride was brief, replaced by a mask of boredom and feigned disinterest. There was, however, a modicum of Respect as well as the white tiger Salvax sat down upon his haunches, before lying down completely and beginning to groom himself. Owena knew, from long dealings with Bas Pride, that this was the closest he got to showing deference. After all... he was mostly a giant cat. He expected - and received - respect from everyone. The only ones he acted differently around was the Salvax Ri, and oddly, Lady Autumn. Owena suspected that Lady Spring or the Seasonal Lords might elicit a similar reaction, but privately found it odd - yet understood - that Queen Roethye was not getting the same treatment. Pride flicked his eyes to look over Roethye briefly, and Owena 'heard' ::Adequate.::

"They offer their respects to you, your Highness."Roethye turned her face to Owena. "Indeed. Aeluta's proven that and more in her time here."

At the mention of travelling with Lady Autumn, Roethye sniggered. "I can imagine. Tell her I'm sorry she couldn't come, and I send my regards."

Roethye looked the animals over. They did seem... smarter than the mounts she'd seen throughout the day. A land ruled by animals was strange indeed, though she supposed the same could be said for a land of blood seers. "Fascinating... though I hope they don't plan to enter the duel tournament. That would be quite one-sided." She looked to Owena, smirking to show she was joking. "I am glad for their respect and extend my own - they are quite regal... people? Beings? What would be appropriate?"


((OOC: Responding to this with permission from HT))

"Though I know not of a land of skunks," a small voice said, with a perfect Primus accent, "I can assure both the Lady Queen and Lady Princess that nothing we Aeldir do is underhanded. It is quite open, for those with the eyes to see such actions."

Dressed in a small, formal court dress from Primus that appears to have been custom tailored, Aleuta was suddenly standing by Roethye. Aleuta has had many years to learn the hiding spots and the unseen places of Primus, and she now enjoyed the great game she could play while away from her home. "And if the dealings with the Gesh and Luskans are to be believed, might I once again caution you, Lady Queen, that enemies of the Aeldir are dealt with swiftly and with few mercies; much better to make friends, yes? Though, as your friend, I would do everything I could to make sure that any halberds you swallow are edible."Roethye was both surprised Aeluta cared enough to show herself, and not at all surprised she'd eavesdropped. Aeluta was very good at hiding.

Breydice's hand came off of her sword. "Oh, just you. Hi Aeluta."

"If everything the Aeldir do is in the open, Primus has nothing to fear. Our expansion goes nowhere near your island, nor your mainland territories." She raised an eyebrow. "Though I sincerely doubt that's true, at least for Lady Autumn. She is a politician. I would be genuinely shocked if she has never lied, cheated or stolen. It's just part of the job."

Breydice blinked, a confused expression on her face. "Isn't Aunt Tusameia a politician?"

"And she regularly told me what her job was like and what her 'friends' would do to her." Roethye raised an eyebrow.

"... Point taken."

"Knight-Protector Alistair treats her well, I'm told.

When Aeluta questioned whether it would be better to have the Aeldir as a friend, Roethye shrugged. "The Masquerade showed Lady Autumn has no interest in being my friend. That's fine - I find it far more interesting to mess with her."

"Understand, Aeluta: my animosity towards Lady Autumn does not extend to her entire court, let alone to all four. I consider the Spring Court friendly, and while I haven't met Kellianth you have made me believe I would like her. The Summer Court sounds like my kind of place (despite being led by a man), and the Winter..." She hesitated. "... I'm not sure what to think about the Winter Court."

[Reggiejam]

As the doors closed, Chesuka was not Luskan. She was only Chesuka.
Since the masquerade party it had been enough years that she was a young adult now. Still with charming and youthful features and the embroidered robes of her clan and headband. She was not wearing the clothes of a priestess today. She could regard Lady Autumn without a mask for the first time. In this way, it was a polite meeting.
She is pretty. Beautiful like a teacher, or mother maybe. Although surrounded by weapons of war, she is different completely. Was the first impression.

"It has been several years, Lady Autumn." She replied with a cheerful smile and sat across from the Aeldir ruler. "It is nice, you seem to be in good health. Thank you for the offer. I will be happy to drink together. It has been a long time since we last drank together." Reaching to her satchel, Chesuka revealed a gourd wrapped with woven cloth in a pattern of dolphins.
"I remembered you liked the taste of wine. Although it was a short time, I was proud such a brewing had come from my family. Therefore I thought to bring some for you as a memory of that time." She offered the gourd to the servant, to pass to the Lady Autumn.

Cynel's eyebrows raised appreciatively at the offer of wine and she gladly took it as the other Aeldir poured her a cup of the sweet dark liquid.

"My thanks to your family then," she sipped the liquid and savored its flavor before continuing, "Mmm, delicious. I've had a few shipments made to the Courtlands to partake but none has been so delectable as this. I see even in exile the People of Twilight keep their secrets. But that is what we're here to talk about, is it not? Exile? And the ending of it?"

Cynel readjusted on the sofa to lean back, cupping her drink in both hands and looking Chesuka over as if she were assessing a piece of art. She was quiet for a moment, letting the silence drag out a bit longer than necessary.

"Do you know why the Rose Courts invaded Luska? I'm afraid the reasoning may have been lost in the suddenness of the attack," she leaned forward again and pressed her lips together in an expression of sorrowful disapproval, "The Luskan Trade Network. Your tradesmen took advantage of our focus on the eastern continent and stole from us. Bribing and coercing local tradesmen to trade with you without proper approval," Cynel paused to bob her head side to side lightly as if to express weighing this action out, "Now, that might not have been enough if not for the previous colonial issues in Rivo Alto and the Land of the Golden Boars. I will be honest with you Chesuka, we greatly desired both those islands and we had planned to take them away from Luska control in time but the push into Luska itself and the sudden invasions were forced by the thievery of the trade route."

She leaned back again and smiled apologetically, "However, we do not wish to hold Luska if we can come to an agreement with you, and you are here which seems to mean you're willing to talk which is good for both of us. We are willing to give Luska itself back to your control, provided you and I can come to an arrangement regarding relations between Luska and the Aeldir going forward."

Cynel waited for Chesuka to answer. It could be the Luskan had come here not for discussion but only to make her unwillingness to compromise apparent directly to the Aeldir. Certainly Cynel hoped that was not the case but it was best to wait playing her offer until she knew for sure.

[Gengy]

Roethye turned her face to Owena. "Indeed. Aeluta's proven that and more in her time here."

At the mention of travelling with Lady Autumn, Roethye sniggered. "I can imagine. Tell her I'm sorry she couldn't come, and I send my regards."

Roethye looked the animals over. They did seem... smarter than the mounts she'd seen throughout the day. A land ruled by animals was strange indeed, though she supposed the same could be said for a land of blood seers. "Fascinating... though I hope they don't plan to enter the duel tournament. That would be quite one-sided." She looked to Owena, smirking to show she was joking. "I am glad for their respect and extend my own - they are quite regal... people? Beings? What would be appropriate?"

"Lady Queen, both Bas Pride and Warchod Prejudice would find it respectful if you considered them a people, like any other. Perhaps strange to your eyes, yes, and difficult to understand, but is that not the way of any new culture at first?" Owena nodded with a grin. "I shall pass along your regards to Lady Spring."

::Competitive. Pride.:: Owena 'listened' as Pride directed his feelings towards the tournament.

::Agreement. Competitive. Pride.:: Prejudice stamped her hoof, and wuffed from her snout.

"As to the Salvax competing, Lady Queen, I believe you may have spoken too soon. Both Bas Pride and Warchod Prejudice have expressed interest."

::Confidence. Caution. Endearment. Discipline. Jovial. Challenge?:: This was a strange mix of emotions from Pride, but...

"Excuse me. The... translation is complex at times. If I am understanding Bas Pride correctly, he feels he is capable of... I believe the phrase is... going easy? Yes. Going easy on your warriors, if they would be scared to face him at his full might. I believe he is telling me that he can treat them as he treats cubs of the Salvax; claws retracted, and no power in his swipes. He would see doing so for something man-sized as a challenge. I do believe he is jesting, but quite interested in participating. They are both interested. I shall need to speak with Lady Autumn to see if they may participate with the Aeldir, unless... would you consider allowing the Salvax to enter on their own? Or under the banner of the Spring Court?"



Roethye was both surprised Aeluta cared enough to show herself, and not at all surprised she'd eavesdropped. Aeluta was very good at hiding.

Breydice's hand came off of her sword. "Oh, just you. Hi Aeluta."

"If everything the Aeldir do is in the open, Primus has nothing to fear. Our expansion goes nowhere near your island, nor your mainland territories." She raised an eyebrow. "Though I sincerely doubt that's true, at least for Lady Autumn. She is a politician. I would be genuinely shocked if she has never lied, cheated or stolen. It's just part of the job."

Breydice blinked, a confused expression on her face. "Isn't Aunt Tusameia a politician?"

"And she regularly told me what her job was like and what her 'friends' would do to her." Roethye raised an eyebrow.

"... Point taken."

"Knight-Protector Alistair treats her well, I'm told.

When Aeluta questioned whether it would be better to have the Aeldir as a friend, Roethye shrugged. "The Masquerade showed Lady Autumn has no interest in being my friend. That's fine - I find it far more interesting to mess with her."

"Understand, Aeluta: my animosity towards Lady Autumn does not extend to her entire court, let alone to all four. I consider the Spring Court friendly, and while I haven't met Kellianth you have made me believe I would like her. The Summer Court sounds like my kind of place (despite being led by a man), and the Winter..." She hesitated. "... I'm not sure what to think about the Winter Court."



"I assure you, Lady Queen, were Lord Winter to hear you expressing uncertainty as to how to treat the Winter Court, he would likely consider his job well done. Winter deals with the mysteries of the world in a manner most obscure. Lady Spring would love to bring those mysteries to light, but Winter prefers to hold them in his grasp, and dole them out like some great treasure; or at least, such was the way during our great conflict, before the Pledge some years ago. I know that the Spring Court is still... wary... of some within Winter. Particularly the Dullahan."

Aleuta visibly shuddered, and whispered even quieter, "Pray that Lord Winter suffers no accidents, Queen Roethye. The Dullahan is next is line, and he is not to be trifled with. Brave though she is, during the conflict, Lady Spring herself once expressed doubts as to how long we would last, if Winter ever fell into the Dullahan's grasp."

Silent for a moment, Aleuta finally spoke again, changing topics with barely a thought. "Though perhaps the most careful with her words, and perhaps not your most favorite Aeldir, Lady Autumn is still Aeldir, Your Highness. As I've mentioned before in our conversations, whether you believe it or choose not to, Aeldir tell no false-hoods. It is... anathema to us. Remind me to tell you the story of the last man to wash ashore Tir Amser some time. He did not... enjoy his lessons in the importance of truth."

"You may consider her a politician, and I cannot gainsay you. But once again, I advise you: Lady Autumn has no need to lie, or cheat, or steal. You may not personally like her, but she does speak for the Aeldir in matters of diplomacy. My letters from Lady Spring have begun to outline the finalization of the merging of the Courts; when it is done, even Lady Kellianth needs must refer diplomatic matters to Lady Autumn, just as Lady Autumn will be compelled to refer matters of trade to Lady Spring."

[HalfTangible]

"Very well then, thank you." She indicated for the group to dismount and - less the prince - head off in the direction of their accommodation.Roethye stepped to the side and allowed them through.

She frowned as they left. That hadn't gone as well as it could have. Nand's dignitaries had seemed oddly opaque - Roethye had accidently insulted them, yes, but their reaction had carried the implication that she should have known better. Still, they seemed competent enough and not without merit. At least they'd allowed their leader to be a woman.


Daras was no stranger to the idea of political assassinations even against those of royal blood: he was after all just about old enough to remember poor Queen Eraneh, though he could barely recall her appearance now, and this was after all only Primus, rather than a civilised land, but there was still something sacrosanct about royalty and the idea of assaults upon them was enough to warm his blood at least, if not quite boil it. He followed them to the princess's chamber and listened to the rather strange conversation before entering.

"I am, my lady," he said in response to her question, showing no outward sign of surprise or revulsion at her appearance, and giving a polite bow. "I was sorry to hear of the outrages committed against you.""... Ah." She looked away, hand instinctively touching the scar. Phelnia wasn't going to tell him, but the scar on her face was probably the least of her wounds. The assassin had struck her several times before he was brought down, and the face had been the shallowest cut. The rest were something only her servants or lovers would see. And she doubted she'd ever get one of the latter now.

"... I uh..." She was shaking. "What all have you heard?"

"We'll be right here." Breydice shut the door behind the Prince.

Varadia raised an eyebrow at the door. Phelnia was already talking more than she had to a stranger in a long while. She was staying at the opposite end of the room, true, but this was still a departure for her.


"Lady Queen, both Bas Pride and Warchod Prejudice would find it respectful if you considered them a people, like any other. Perhaps strange to your eyes, yes, and difficult to understand, but is that not the way of any new culture at first?" Owena nodded with a grin. "I shall pass along your regards to Lady Spring."

::Competitive. Pride.:: Owena 'listened' as Pride directed his feelings towards the tournament.

::Agreement. Competitive. Pride.:: Prejudice stamped her hoof, and wuffed from her snout.

"As to the Salvax competing, Lady Queen, I believe you may have spoken too soon. Both Bas Pride and Warchod Prejudice have expressed interest."

::Confidence. Caution. Endearment. Discipline. Jovial. Challenge?:: This was a strange mix of emotions from Pride, but...

"Excuse me. The... translation is complex at times. If I am understanding Bas Pride correctly, he feels he is capable of... I believe the phrase is... going easy? Yes. Going easy on your warriors, if they would be scared to face him at his full might. I believe he is telling me that he can treat them as he treats cubs of the Salvax; claws retracted, and no power in his swipes. He would see doing so for something man-sized as a challenge. I do believe he is jesting, but quite interested in participating. They are both interested. I shall need to speak with Lady Autumn to see if they may participate with the Aeldir, unless... would you consider allowing the Salvax to enter on their own? Or under the banner of the Spring Court?"Roethye sighed and shook her head. "I apologize, but the Tournament only allows one entrance per realm, and both the Salvax and the Spring are part of the Aeldir courts. The Salvax may compete in the duels, but only if they can hold back enough to stop at first blood."



"I assure you, Lady Queen, were Lord Winter to hear you expressing uncertainty as to how to treat the Winter Court, he would likely consider his job well done. Winter deals with the mysteries of the world in a manner most obscure. Lady Spring would love to bring those mysteries to light, but Winter prefers to hold them in his grasp, and dole them out like some great treasure; or at least, such was the way during our great conflict, before the Pledge some years ago. I know that the Spring Court is still... wary... of some within Winter. Particularly the Dullahan."

Aleuta visibly shuddered, and whispered even quieter, "Pray that Lord Winter suffers no accidents, Queen Roethye. The Dullahan is next is line, and he is not to be trifled with. Brave though she is, during the conflict, Lady Spring herself once expressed doubts as to how long we would last, if Winter ever fell into the Dullahan's grasp."

Silent for a moment, Aleuta finally spoke again, changing topics with barely a thought. "Though perhaps the most careful with her words, and perhaps not your most favorite Aeldir, Lady Autumn is still Aeldir, Your Highness. As I've mentioned before in our conversations, whether you believe it or choose not to, Aeldir tell no false-hoods. It is... anathema to us. Remind me to tell you the story of the last man to wash ashore Tir Amser some time. He did not... enjoy his lessons in the importance of truth."

"You may consider her a politician, and I cannot gainsay you. But once again, I advise you: Lady Autumn has no need to lie, or cheat, or steal. You may not personally like her, but she does speak for the Aeldir in matters of diplomacy. My letters from Lady Spring have begun to outline the finalization of the merging of the Courts; when it is done, even Lady Kellianth needs must refer diplomatic matters to Lady Autumn, just as Lady Autumn will be compelled to refer matters of trade to Lady Spring."


Roethye smiled with amusement. "I have no reason to doubt you believe that, Aeluta. It doesn't change that there is nothing left to do or say to make the Autumn Primus' friend, and honestly there isn't much reason to reach out any further. The Aeldir's affairs and Primus' are unlikely to cross while I'm alive."

Breydice glanced between the two.

[Gengy]

Roethye sighed and shook her head. "I apologize, but the Tournament only allows one entrance per realm, and both the Salvax and the Spring are part of the Aeldir courts. The Salvax may compete in the duels, but only if they can hold back enough to stop at first blood."

::Disappointment. Confusion. Pain? Caution.:: Prejudice seemed very upset, and it took Owena a second to figure out why. Pride, on the other hand, radiated amusement.

"Forgive me, your Highness, but I was under the impression that War Chess did not have first blood, or any blood sport at all. Am I incorrect?"





Roethye smiled with amusement. "I have no reason to doubt you believe that, Aeluta. It doesn't change that there is nothing left to do or say to make the Autumn Primus' friend, and honestly there isn't much reason to reach out any further. The Aeldir's affairs and Primus' are unlikely to cross while I'm alive."

Breydice glanced between the two.


"As you say, Lady Queen. I merely advise, as I do for Lady Spring. It is not for me to make decisions, but to provide what information I can, so that those who do make decisions do so in an informed manner." Aleuta smiled, and looked at both Breydice and Roethye. "My life is much easier that way."

"If there are no further questions, though, I would like to excuse myself. It has been many years since I have spoken directly to another Aeldir. I figuratively ache to speak with those of the Courts again, in my own tongue."

[HalfTangible]

::Disappointment. Confusion. Pain? Caution.:: Prejudice seemed very upset, and it took Owena a second to figure out why. Pride, on the other hand, radiated amusement.

"Forgive me, your Highness, but I was under the impression that War Chess did not have first blood, or any blood sport at all. Am I incorrect?""Wait, War Chess? I thought you wanted to enter the duel tournament. Sure, War Chess has no such rule."






"As you say, Lady Queen. I merely advise, as I do for Lady Spring. It is not for me to make decisions, but to provide what information I can, so that those who do make decisions do so in an informed manner." Aleuta smiled, and looked at both Breydice and Roethye. "My life is much easier that way."

"If there are no further questions, though, I would like to excuse myself. It has been many years since I have spoken directly to another Aeldir. I figuratively ache to speak with those of the Courts again, in my own tongue."


Roethye waved. "Of course. 'tis a festival and tournament, do as you will. The Spring were asking after you, actually."

[Aedilred]

"... Ah." She looked away, hand instinctively touching the scar. Phelnia wasn't going to tell him, but the scar on her face was probably the least of her wounds. The assassin had struck her several times before he was brought down, and the face had been the shallowest cut. The rest were something only her servants or lovers would see. And she doubted she'd ever get one of the latter now.

"... I uh..." She was shaking. "What all have you heard?"

"We'll be right here." Breydice shut the door behind the Prince.

Varadia raised an eyebrow at the door. Phelnia was already talking more than she had to a stranger in a long while. She was staying at the opposite end of the room, true, but this was still a departure for her.

"Nothing," Daras said, truthfully. "Only that you were the victim of an attack that should never have been allowed to happen, and that you were hurt as a result. Your... ah, sisters, I presume? - asked me to come and visit you, though I know not why. Novelty, perhaps. I imagine I am the first Nend to visit this city in years, if one has been here at all."

[Reggiejam]

"I am happy to deal with whoever is competent to handle the necessaries without inconveniencing Lady Autumn," he said, "though if she wishes to handle matters in person I am happy to wait." This business was after all why Daras was here at all, so there was no point standing on his dignity at this stage and risk offending or inconveniencing the Aeldir into the bargain.

"There are those who would argue about my competency," Duke Sand with the hint of a smile, "but all the paperwork has been mostly filled out so I think I can handle it. For now at least."

The Duke led the Nend prince into the Aeldir quarters and over to the central table encircled by sofas and fine chairs. A wooden box filed with papers was sitting beneath the table and a simple set of documents was sitting on top with two ink quills and pens set aside.

"Copies of the agreement," Sand said gesturing towards the tabled documents and plopping down in a chair a bit too large for him, "they look good to me, but then they involve not much changing as far as I'm concerned."


The documents consist of the terms as laid out in my actions post sub-actions

[HalfTangible]

"Nothing," Daras said, truthfully. "Only that you were the victim of an attack that should never have been allowed to happen, and that you were hurt as a result. Your... ah, sisters, I presume? - asked me to come and visit you, though I know not why. Novelty, perhaps. I imagine I am the first Nend to visit this city in years, if one has been here at all."

"Breydice is my older sister and Varadia's my younger twin." She didn't address the probability of Daras being brought here because he was novel. It was more likely Breydice wanted to bring her curiosity back and get her asking questions again. She just didn't get it... Phelnia didn't want anything to do with the rest of the world anymore. What she had in this room was eno"So... why is your skin blue? Is it paint, or...?"ugh... why did she ask that?

[Mary_Sue]

"Ah yes, so I have heard," Reza said, accepting a glass of wine and giving another broad smile. "Alas, the majority of our people do not thrive in foreign lands, so the pool from which representatives can be chosen is thin. In Nand, both men and women are treated equally in such respects, and it was believed I was the best candidate for the position - or at least the best one who would accept the job. I don't know how many turned it down before I accepted, though they would have been mad to do so."

It was mostly true, though he was also aware that his sex was, somewhat counterintuitively, seen as something of an asset in this diplomatic mission. While a woman might initially be more respected, she would ultimately be just another woman at the Avonlea court, whereas he - if accepted, and as a foreigner he was not seeking office under the queen, only a degree of access, after all - would have something of an air of exoticism, not to mention the extra diplomatic avenues an unmarried man could pursue among such company.

"This wine is excellent," he said. "Is it from Avonlea, or do you import from abroad?"

Helia shifted slightly at his admission, she was of course aware that in most, if not all other realms they had encountered that men were in charge, or at least equals, the one exception, she noted being their hosts and besides being a matriarchy, seemed to have little else in common. It saddened her that her people might be looked down upon for their particular idiosyncrasies, especially when compared to the Primals. Her brow furrowed, Men had once been equal in Avonlea, long before anyone living's memory, even the Council's. It's not that they believed men weren't capable, but that it would mean the end of their people, as foretold in Prophecy. She sighed pensively and swirled the wine in her glass, her intriguing guest momentarily forgotten until his inquiry cut through her reflective thoughts.

"Ah, yes, it does come from our own lands, though the particular lands from which it comes has been newly incorporated." She spoke off-handedly, her recent musings still clouding her mood.

"What is it about your people makes it so they do not thrive in foreign lands? I'm afraid I know woefully little about your people." Helia dispensed with formalities and slipped off her shoes, sinking into the cushions to lean comfortably, willing this intriguing stranger to regale her with interesting tales of exotic lands so that she might forget the trouble in her own.

[Kasanip]

Cynel's eyebrows raised appreciatively at the offer of wine and she gladly took it as the other Aeldir poured her a cup of the sweet dark liquid.

"My thanks to your family then," she sipped the liquid and savored its flavor before continuing, "Mmm, delicious. I've had a few shipments made to the Courtlands to partake but none has been so delectable as this. I see even in exile the People of Twilight keep their secrets. But that is what we're here to talk about, is it not? Exile? And the ending of it?"

Cynel readjusted on the sofa to lean back, cupping her drink in both hands and looking Chesuka over as if she were assessing a piece of art. She was quiet for a moment, letting the silence drag out a bit longer than necessary.

"Do you know why the Rose Courts invaded Luska? I'm afraid the reasoning may have been lost in the suddenness of the attack," she leaned forward again and pressed her lips together in an expression of sorrowful disapproval, "The Luskan Trade Network. Your tradesmen took advantage of our focus on the eastern continent and stole from us. Bribing and coercing local tradesmen to trade with you without proper approval," Cynel paused to bob her head side to side lightly as if to express weighing this action out, "Now, that might not have been enough if not for the previous colonial issues in Rivo Alto and the Land of the Golden Boars. I will be honest with you Chesuka, we greatly desired both those islands and we had planned to take them away from Luska control in time but the push into Luska itself and the sudden invasions were forced by the thievery of the trade route."

She leaned back again and smiled apologetically, "However, we do not wish to hold Luska if we can come to an agreement with you, and you are here which seems to mean you're willing to talk which is good for both of us. We are willing to give Luska itself back to your control, provided you and I can come to an arrangement regarding relations between Luska and the Aeldir going forward."

Cynel waited for Chesuka to answer. It could be the Luskan had come here not for discussion but only to make her unwillingness to compromise apparent directly to the Aeldir. Certainly Cynel hoped that was not the case but it was best to wait playing her offer until she knew for sure.

Chesuka and Lady Autumn
Chesuka drank the offered marigold rose nectar quietly while Lady Autumn drank the wine. The Aeldir drink was very sweet. It was sweeter than wine, like honey. A little sticky. But it was not bad.
She listened quietly, holding the cup with the grace of an experienced priestess.
Exile was not the word to describe. The people of twilight had been refugees before, it was said by the elders. the embroidered patterns of the waves and evening sky were the comfort. To be a people of twilight, it was to be passed under that dawn and dusk sky without a land called 'home'. To be together with family and friends, that was the meaning to be Luskan. Luska was the place where the clans were. Therefore it was home.
Chesuka sat, feeling the gaze of the Aeldir, like she was an art piece. It was uncomfortable, and made her feel small and helpless. But she endured to maintain such a calm and attentive appearance while the Autumn Lady continued.
She lowered her eyes a little, and then replied.
"The merchants of the people of twilight travel freely on the open water. The ocean is our home, so long as we are there. I do not know what proper approval there was, unfortunately. We only heard many confusing stories in the chaos of the East. Though I do not know the situation, I think the merchants who trade there do so without supervision, from the Aeldir nor from the council."
Chesuka set the cup down gently.
"Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti were lands where our people of twilight settled. The people there are not Aeldir." She looked up at Cynel with a serious expression.
"I don't know why you want the land, as I have visited your magnificent island. You never asked or told anything to us. Never sent a message or asked politely. It was only the sudden arrival of fire and death from your boats."

Chesuka paused for a minute, to regard Lady Autumn.
"I want to be understood. Before we continue. Maybe, you think I am very young. The people of twilight formed the Resistance to drive out the Aeldir. And because I have the most experience with Aeldir, and because I am a priestess of the Pale Lady, I became the leader of this resistance movement."
Chesuka stopped and continued.
"Many believe if it is fighting, that we can achieve our freedom. It will be painful. Maybe, it will take a long time. Such wounds maybe will never heal. But, like you said, I am here." Chesuka braced herself to say the difficult thing. It was hard. Even though she thought she had prepared herself, the situation was difficult. To sit across from such a lady.
"I came because I hope we can find an answer. Even if I was to be captured or killed. I came because I have always dreamed for my people to be united and safe. To work together to build a future. To not have to flee to the west like our past and our names."
She looked determined even with emotion.
"So I will do what is necessary to achieve our future, even if it is death, Lady Autumn." She announced with a strong whisper. She drank the nectar again. With bitter words and a sweet drink, at least a little, her heart could be eased. And she experienced the taste and regarded the cup politely, before to continue calmly, to look attentively to Lady Autumn's gaze.
"Therefore, I sit here and implore you to remove your warriors from Luska. And I ask you what it must cost for this agreement. But I am also curious. What future do you see for Luska and the Aeldir?"

[TheDarkDM]

The Orm and Helia Whitstone

There was a quiet moment where the Orm seemed not to have heard Helia's apology, as black eyes roved over her. Then the Aeldir woman raised a hand and took hold of Helia's chin with a gentle firmness that belied an iron grip. The touch was a not the bitter cold that some might have expected - rather, the touch of those slender ivory fingers reminded Helia of nothing so much as the feel of a cold compress in childhood. Holding the Avonlea woman's head still, the Orm gazed into her green eyes, her own black orbs mirrors in which Helia saw herself falling into darkness.

"Babdi smiled on your family at your birth, Helia Whitstone, to have given them so rare a creature as you."

The towering Aeldir leaned closer, and the wind seemed to die.

"This introduction, I think, is reparation enough. It would please my lord, I think, for me to speak with your queen."

The woman's voice was low and musical, hypnotic in its closeness.

"Do you imagine it would please her?"

She held a moment longer, then released Helia, straightening to await the courtier's reply.

The Orm and the Jade Coalition

The Orm smiled at Leonard's introduction, bringing her fist to her heart in an oddly militant gesture for a woman gowned.

"Greetings then, sir. I am known as Danu Llaeth, of the Aeldir. I hoped I might speak with you of your homeland, and of how your people and mine might become friends?"

[Aedilred]

"There are those who would argue about my competency," Duke Sand with the hint of a smile, "but all the paperwork has been mostly filled out so I think I can handle it. For now at least."

The Duke led the Nend prince into the Aeldir quarters and over to the central table encircled by sofas and fine chairs. A wooden box filed with papers was sitting beneath the table and a simple set of documents was sitting on top with two ink quills and pens set aside.

"Copies of the agreement," Sand said gesturing towards the tabled documents and plopping down in a chair a bit too large for him, "they look good to me, but then they involve not much changing as far as I'm concerned."


The documents consist of the terms as laid out in my actions post sub-actions

Daras read the documents carefully before nodding. "This appears to be as I was instructed was agreed." He hovered slightly over the non-interference clause. "For the sake of clarity, I presume that this would not preclude extension of trade into one another's agreed territory, only that we do not disrupt or interfere in one anothers trading affairs?"


"Breydice is my older sister and Varadia's my younger twin." She didn't address the probability of Daras being brought here because he was novel. It was more likely Breydice wanted to bring her curiosity back and get her asking questions again. She just didn't get it... Phelnia didn't want anything to do with the rest of the world anymore. What she had in this room was eno"So... why is your skin blue? Is it paint, or...?"ugh... why did she ask that?

"No, this is its natural colour," he said, extending an arm the better to display it. "Why it should be so, of course, is something of a mystery, though the consensus is that as the chosen people of Nandir we were blessed with our coloured skin. One tends to have a similar colour to one's parents, and so my father had the same coloured-skin as I do, as, I think, did my mother, though I scarcely remember her."


Helia shifted slightly at his admission, she was of course aware that in most, if not all other realms they had encountered that men were in charge, or at least equals, the one exception, she noted being their hosts and besides being a matriarchy, seemed to have little else in common. It saddened her that her people might be looked down upon for their particular idiosyncrasies, especially when compared to the Primals. Her brow furrowed, Men had once been equal in Avonlea, long before anyone living's memory, even the Council's. It's not that they believed men weren't capable, but that it would mean the end of their people, as foretold in Prophecy. She sighed pensively and swirled the wine in her glass, her intriguing guest momentarily forgotten until his inquiry cut through her reflective thoughts.

"Ah, yes, it does come from our own lands, though the particular lands from which it comes has been newly incorporated." She spoke off-handedly, her recent musings still clouding her mood.

"What is it about your people makes it so they do not thrive in foreign lands? I'm afraid I know woefully little about your people." Helia dispensed with formalities and slipped off her shoes, sinking into the cushions to lean comfortably, willing this intriguing stranger to regale her with interesting tales of exotic lands so that she might forget the trouble in her own.

Reza gestured upwards towards the ceiling. "We are the people of Nandir and Enrir, the sun and the light, and their bright colours display that. My folk thrive under the gaze of the sun, but when shut away from it they suffer. I hear that in some parts, a fear of the dark is considered childish, but for the Nanda, it is a fact of life, and to be locked in a dark room would be a form of particular torture. In Nand, the sun shines bright and hot and reliably, and our buildings are constructed so that light can enter easily. In many foreign lands, though, the nights are longer, the sun lower and more clouded, the structures dark and forbidding."

He shrugged open his shirt to show his chest better and gestured at it. "I however am one of the balanda, the lowest of the castes in Nand, for we have no colour of our own, save for the occasional small reminder of our heritage." He turned over his arm to display a pale yellow whorl just beneath the elbow. "In many respects, we might as well be human." He gave an indulgent smile. "What it does mean, though, is that we can travel to, even live in, places that higher castes dare not set foot. Most of the diplomats and explorers from my kingdom are of my caste, for they can travel further and for longer - and for that matter stand to wear more clothes, since the normal dress of my people would be considered highly immodest in most parts, I believe."

[Reggiejam]

Lady Autumn/Aeldir
Arriving where Lady Autumn was staying, Oshenvar greeted the Summer Aeldir guard in the trade tongue. "Greetings, fellow Aeldir. I would like to request the privilege to speak with your Lady? Vinariun left the summit so soon and with many stories, and so I would like to inquire more as to the nature of our races."

Oshenvar, being young as he is, looks like he is the human equivalent of nineteen years old. He has the pale skin of every Dhuda Loka, and unkempt black hair. He is wearing the traditional attire of every Uca Jajaka, and if you want the specific details, here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19891684&postcount=33) is my region write-up.

The Summer Aeldir turned to his fellow at post and raised an eyebrow, carrying on in the Aeldir tongue for a moment. The guard turned back to Oshenvar and gave a brief nod before opening the door to the salon interior of the Aeldir apartment. Lady Autumn and Duke Sand were sitting around the central table speaking quietly in the Aeldir language and both looked up as the door opened.

Seeing Oshenvar Cynel's mouth spread into a smile and she stood up, "Ah! Our cousins the Dhuda Loka, please, come in, have a seat! Would you like some Marigold Rose nectar?"

As Cynel spoke Sand quietly slipped away, offering only a brief nod to the guest before disappearing further into the quarters.


Chesuka and Lady Autumn
Chesuka drank the offered marigold rose nectar quietly while Lady Autumn drank the wine. The Aeldir drink was very sweet. It was sweeter than wine, like honey. A little sticky. But it was not bad.
She listened quietly, holding the cup with the grace of an experienced priestess.
Exile was not the word to describe. The people of twilight had been refugees before, it was said by the elders. the embroidered patterns of the waves and evening sky were the comfort. To be a people of twilight, it was to be passed under that dawn and dusk sky without a land called 'home'. To be together with family and friends, that was the meaning to be Luskan. Luska was the place where the clans were. Therefore it was home.
Chesuka sat, feeling the gaze of the Aeldir, like she was an art piece. It was uncomfortable, and made her feel small and helpless. But she endured to maintain such a calm and attentive appearance while the Autumn Lady continued.
She lowered her eyes a little, and then replied.
"The merchants of the people of twilight travel freely on the open water. The ocean is our home, so long as we are there. I do not know what proper approval there was, unfortunately. We only heard many confusing stories in the chaos of the East. Though I do not know the situation, I think the merchants who trade there do so without supervision, from the Aeldir nor from the council."
Chesuka set the cup down gently.
"Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti were lands where our people of twilight settled. The people there are not Aeldir." She looked up at Cynel with a serious expression.
"I don't know why you want the land, as I have visited your magnificent island. You never asked or told anything to us. Never sent a message or asked politely. It was only the sudden arrival of fire and death from your boats."

Chesuka paused for a minute, to regard Lady Autumn.
"I want to be understood. Before we continue. Maybe, you think I am very young. The people of twilight formed the Resistance to drive out the Aeldir. And because I have the most experience with Aeldir, and because I am a priestess of the Pale Lady, I became the leader of this resistance movement."
Chesuka stopped and continued.
"Many believe if it is fighting, that we can achieve our freedom. It will be painful. Maybe, it will take a long time. Such wounds maybe will never heal. But, like you said, I am here." Chesuka braced herself to say the difficult thing. It was hard. Even though she thought she had prepared herself, the situation was difficult. To sit across from such a lady.
"I came because I hope we can find an answer. Even if I was to be captured or killed. I came because I have always dreamed for my people to be united and safe. To work together to build a future. To not have to flee to the west like our past and our names."
She looked determined even with emotion.
"So I will do what is necessary to achieve our future, even if it is death, Lady Autumn." She announced with a strong whisper. She drank the nectar again. With bitter words and a sweet drink, at least a little, her heart could be eased. And she experienced the taste and regarded the cup politely, before to continue calmly, to look attentively to Lady Autumn's gaze.
"Therefore, I sit here and implore you to remove your warriors from Luska. And I ask you what it must cost for this agreement. But I am also curious. What future do you see for Luska and the Aeldir?"

Cynel's face softened into a mixture of appreciation and pity. The kind of look that might be given to a caged animal trying to escape its confines as she listened to Chesuka talk. As she finished and asked her question Cynel pursed her lips for a moment before answering.

"I'm afraid I don't see much of a future at all if you plan to keep fighting us," she said honestly, "I don't care if your council fails to oversee its merchants, they were Luskans and they acted against us. You claim leadership of the Luskans and so you have been chosen to answer for it, a less bloody affair than tracking down each merchant individually."

"I admire your desire to rule over more people and claim them as your own, but I don't care what race the people of Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti are. I don't care if you claim they are Luskans. They live on different islands, islands we intend to control. The Aeldir are capable of ruling over a plethora of people, be it the Gesh in the east, the humans of Twilight, or our own fellow Aeldir. And we will rule in Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti."

She paused to sip her wine, it truly was a wonderful vintage and for a moment she pondered the benefits of retaining Luska itself purely for their vineyards.

"I think you may have a poor memory if you do not remember the arrival of our diplomats opposite your own in Gullinbursti and Rivo Alto. We have desired the islands since their discovery by the Spring Court and your own explorers. As I have already stated, it was our intent to take both soon but the Luskan Trade Network forced our hand to accelerate our plans and enhance them to include Luska itself. And now we are back where we began this conversation. Where three options present themselves. We continue to occupy all three islands, you fight us, we fight back and you likely die. True, you may kill one or more of us but another will take our place. Nothing changes and a bloody affair is left in our wake. The second option is we acquiesce to your request that we surrender that which we conquered. I see no reason to do that however. Option one is far less likely to be costly to us than it is to you and retains us more so of the two we would prefer it."

Cynel leaned forward now and pulled a document from the table, turning it to face Chesuka and sliding it across the table.

"We also have option three, a compromise between our realms. You, Chesuka, accept responsibility and apologize for the thievery that occurred on the Luskan trade network as well as signing an agreement giving up all claim and recognizing Rose Court sovereignty in Gullunbursti and Rivo Alto. You pledge yourself and your successors as Protectorates of the Rose Courts. This means you recognize the Rose Courts as your sovereign protectors, your realm shall not seek to bring harm against any of the Rose Demesne, and the resources of your realm are made available first to the Rose Demesne."

"In return, the Rose Courts will return Luska proper to your control, we shall not interfere in your governance so long as it does not threaten the interests of the Rose Courts, and we shall aid you where we can in expansion and development of your realm. Notably, the Maurader Isles to your south are promised to be turned over to your control if, in four years time, you have proven yourself trustworthy and honorable to your word and are capable of administrating the region."

Cynel leaned back, allowing Chesuka to look over the document and think before responding.


What it says and what we discussed in PM. Luska becomes a Protectorate of the Rose Courts (fluff-only, no mechanics but makes Luska a vassal-like) and signs an agreement not to go to war/cause harm/otherwise interfere in Rose Court business. Chesuka also accepts responsibility for the thievery and thus the war and surrenders Luskan claims to Regions 10 and 12.

In exchange we give you Luska (9) back and promise not to interfere with you again so long as you stick to your end of the bargain. We will also give you the Marauder Isles (26) in 2 rounds if the deal is kept to and you feel like you can handle the extra region.



Daras read the documents carefully before nodding. "This appears to be as I was instructed was agreed." He hovered slightly over the non-interference clause. "For the sake of clarity, I presume that this would not preclude extension of trade into one another's agreed territory, only that we do not disrupt or interfere in one anothers trading affairs?"


"As with military, there may be times when the Courts or your alliance request the other party's involvement in affairs which would not fall under interference as it was invited, not intruded. Agreed to and complimentary trade would certainly fall under such a provision."

[moossabi]

The Summer Aeldir turned to his fellow at post and raised an eyebrow, carrying on in the Aeldir tongue for a moment. The guard turned back to Oshenvar and gave a brief nod before opening the door to the salon interior of the Aeldir apartment. Lady Autumn and Duke Sand were sitting around the central table speaking quietly in the Aeldir language and both looked up as the door opened.

Seeing Oshenvar Cynel's mouth spread into a smile and she stood up, "Ah! Our cousins the Dhuda Loka, please, come in, have a seat! Would you like some Marigold Rose nectar?"

As Cynel spoke Sand quietly slipped away, offering only a brief nod to the guest before disappearing further into the quarters.

"Of course, Lady Autumn. It is a standard to accept your host's offer, is it not?" As Oshenvar sat down, he felt it necessary to inquire as to the exit of Duke Sand. "So, why did your friend there leave? I remember that Vinariun recalled such an individual at Tir Gwydr, would they be related somehow?"

[Mary_Sue]

Reza gestured upwards towards the ceiling. "We are the people of Nandir and Enrir, the sun and the light, and their bright colours display that. My folk thrive under the gaze of the sun, but when shut away from it they suffer. I hear that in some parts, a fear of the dark is considered childish, but for the Nanda, it is a fact of life, and to be locked in a dark room would be a form of particular torture. In Nand, the sun shines bright and hot and reliably, and our buildings are constructed so that light can enter easily. In many foreign lands, though, the nights are longer, the sun lower and more clouded, the structures dark and forbidding."

He shrugged open his shirt to show his chest better and gestured at it. "I however am one of the balanda, the lowest of the castes in Nand, for we have no colour of our own, save for the occasional small reminder of our heritage." He turned over his arm to display a pale yellow whorl just beneath the elbow. "In many respects, we might as well be human." He gave an indulgent smile. "What it does mean, though, is that we can travel to, even live in, places that higher castes dare not set foot. Most of the diplomats and explorers from my kingdom are of my caste, for they can travel further and for longer - and for that matter stand to wear more clothes, since the normal dress of my people would be considered highly immodest in most parts, I believe."

Helia raised an interested eyebrow as the man opened his shirt and pointed to the pretty whorls that decorated his lovely olive skin. The other handmaidens crowded around him, reaching out to trace the whorls or stroking the pretty hair they had all been so fascinated with. Helia herself, a bit giddy from too much wine, finally gave in to her own curiosity and reached out to trace the pale whorl on his arm, a smile warming her face as her eyes met the man's.

"Being human has it's own pleasures." She was startled and jumped guiltily as Thalia emerged from her bedroom, hair a bit mussed, but otherwise presentable. Her eyebrows raised at the unexpected scene before her, her eyes noted the whirls on his exposed skin and the colored hair and identified him as a Nend.

"Please Helia, do introduce our guest for me." She smirked as her maid stood and tried to collect herself.

"My queen, I would introduce.." She clear voice faltered as she realized she didn't remember if the man had told her his name or not.

"I don't know his name, my queen, please forgive me." She reddened in embarrassment and shifted uncomfortably. Thalia continued to smirk and stifled a laugh.

"Then why don't we ask the gentleman to introduce himself? If you would be so kind, sir." Thalia reflexively smoothed her hair, waiting for her "guest" to introduce himself and state his business here, besides soliciting attention from her maidens.


The Orm and Helia Whitstone

There was a quiet moment where the Orm seemed not to have heard Helia's apology, as black eyes roved over her. Then the Aeldir woman raised a hand and took hold of Helia's chin with a gentle firmness that belied an iron grip. The touch was a not the bitter cold that some might have expected - rather, the touch of those slender ivory fingers reminded Helia of nothing so much as the feel of a cold compress in childhood. Holding the Avonlea woman's head still, the Orm gazed into her green eyes, her own black orbs mirrors in which Helia saw herself falling into darkness.

"Babdi smiled on your family at your birth, Helia Whitstone, to have given them so rare a creature as you."

The towering Aeldir leaned closer, and the wind seemed to die.

"This introduction, I think, is reparation enough. It would please my lord, I think, for me to speak with your queen."

The woman's voice was low and musical, hypnotic in its closeness.

"Do you imagine it would please her?"

She held a moment longer, then released Helia, straightening to await the courtier's reply.

Helia's body stilled and stiffened at the ethereal woman's touch, mesmerized by the unending pit of darkness that were her eyes. Her touch was at the same time cool and soothing and electric and alarming. She shivered slightly at the pale woman's words as she came close enough to kiss. As she was released, the world which had been frozen as she stood beneath The Orm's scrutinizing gaze, regained it's color and rushed back into motion as if to catch up with the the time lost as she had stood frozen under her touch. She blinked prettily as she came back to her senses, her eyes wide as she still held the gaze of the Aeldir,

"I will alert my Queen immediately, M'Lady." She curtsied again. Her voice, though clear, was soft as if it came from far away. The clarion muted.

[PepperP.]

Helia raised an interested eyebrow as the man opened his shirt and pointed to the pretty whorls that decorated his lovely olive skin. The other handmaidens crowded around him, reaching out to trace the whorls or stroking the pretty hair they had all been so fascinated with. Helia herself, a bit giddy from too much wine, finally gave in to her own curiosity and reached out to trace the pale whorl on his arm, a smile warming her face as her eyes met the man's.

"Being human has it's own pleasures." She was startled and jumped guiltily as Thalia emerged from her bedroom, hair a bit mussed, but otherwise presentable. Her eyebrows raised at the unexpected scene before her, her eyes noted the whirls on his exposed skin and the colored hair and identified him as a Nend.

"Please Helia, do introduce our guest for me." She smirked as her maid stood and tried to collect herself.

"My queen, I would introduce.." She clear voice faltered as she realized she didn't remember if the man had told her his name or not.

"I don't know his name, my queen, please forgive me." She reddened in embarrassment and shifted uncomfortably. Thalia continued to smirk and stifled a laugh.

"Then why don't we ask the gentleman to introduce himself? If you would be so kind, sir." Thalia reflexively smoothed her hair, waiting for her "guest" to introduce himself and state his business here, besides soliciting attention from her maidens.

Maldarr stepped out of Thalia's room, carrying Nyle who was sleeping in his arms. He grinned in amusement to see the Nend's predicament, and leaned over the queen,

"I will be back with him tonight." He kissed Thalia on the head and met the man's eyes, smirking, before leaving with the child to go show him off to Derris and Belinda.


"I should like to know a little more about Ambrose before I agreed," Leonard spoke carefully, "Firstly, what is the history of your realm? How was it formed? What of recent history?"

The man was cautious, Derris noted, internally measuring the stranger.

"Certainly," Derris paused, collecting his thoughts and measuring how much he wanted to tell this man.

"Generations ago, our clans were a united force on our continent. We protected our people and drove our enemies before us so well, that we became complacent and eventually fell to infighting and petty squabbling. The clans became divided and insular, languishing in battles between each other for land and resources. Since I gained control of our historic capitol, near ten years ago now, I have managed to unite our clans once again, though sadly there are names that have been lost to history. But still I believe maintaining a strong bond will only be to the betterment of all my people, and we will be stronger for it, as will our allies." Derris paused to let the man take in his words.

"What of your lands? How did the Jade Coalition come to be?" His eyes left the stadium floor and the duelists to glance at the man, trying to glean his reaction to his words.

[Aedilred]

Helia raised an interested eyebrow as the man opened his shirt and pointed to the pretty whorls that decorated his lovely olive skin. The other handmaidens crowded around him, reaching out to trace the whorls or stroking the pretty hair they had all been so fascinated with. Helia herself, a bit giddy from too much wine, finally gave in to her own curiosity and reached out to trace the pale whorl on his arm, a smile warming her face as her eyes met the man's.

"Being human has it's own pleasures." She was startled and jumped guiltily as Thalia emerged from her bedroom, hair a bit mussed, but otherwise presentable. Her eyebrows raised at the unexpected scene before her, her eyes noted the whirls on his exposed skin and the colored hair and identified him as a Nend.

"Please Helia, do introduce our guest for me." She smirked as her maid stood and tried to collect herself.

"My queen, I would introduce.." She clear voice faltered as she realized she didn't remember if the man had told her his name or not.

"I don't know his name, my queen, please forgive me." She reddened in embarrassment and shifted uncomfortably. Thalia continued to smirk and stifled a laugh.

"Then why don't we ask the gentleman to introduce himself? If you would be so kind, sir." Thalia reflexively smoothed her hair, waiting for her "guest" to introduce himself and state his business here, besides soliciting attention from her maidens.


Maldarr stepped out of Thalia's room, carrying Nyle who was sleeping in his arms. He grinned in amusement to see the Nend's predicament, and leaned over the queen,

"I will be back with him tonight." He kissed Thalia on the head and met the man's eyes, smirking, before leaving with the child to go show him off to Derris and Belinda.

"Reza of Nand, milady," he said, with a low bow. "I am sure any error is mine; I must have mumbled when I made my introduction. Your ladies have been most hospitable while my Ambrosan friend had the pleasure of your attention." He glanced in the direction of Maldarr with a scarcely perceptible smirk.

From somewhere he produced a roll of vellum which he presented to the queen with another bow. "I have been appointed as ambassador to your court by Prince-Regent Kusal; here are my credentials."

[HalfTangible]

"No, this is its natural colour," he said, extending an arm the better to display it. "Why it should be so, of course, is something of a mystery, though the consensus is that as the chosen people of Nandir we were blessed with our coloured skin. One tends to have a similar colour to one's parents, and so my father had the same coloured-skin as I do, as, I think, did my mother, though I scarcely remember her."Phelnia didn't move closer to inspect, still eyeing him warily. "What is Nand like? What kind of military do you have? Do you favor a particular material in construction and/or a favored tactic in warfare? Who rules your people? Why don't you have a weapon on you?" ... An odd question, since she didn't seem to have a weapon either.

[Aedilred]

Phelnia didn't move closer to inspect, still eyeing him warily. "What is Nand like? What kind of military do you have? Do you favor a particular material in construction and/or a favored tactic in warfare? Who rules your people? Why don't you have a weapon on you?" ... An odd question, since she didn't seem to have a weapon either.

Daras appeared rather taken aback at the number and rapidity of the questions, though smiled at the last one. "It is not the done thing for royalty to carry weapons openly away from the battlefield, except for certain ceremonies. For peacetime, I have the only weapon I need right here, and carry it with me at all times." He gestured to the front of his breeches.

"As for your other questions, perhaps we should find a couch and order some refreshment first? I might have to ask you to repeat them, lest I forget some."

[HalfTangible]

Daras appeared rather taken aback at the number and rapidity of the questions, though smiled at the last one. "It is not the done thing for royalty to carry weapons openly away from the battlefield, except for certain ceremonies. For peacetime, I have the only weapon I need right here, and carry it with me at all times." He gestured to the front of his breeches.That actually got a chuckle out of her. "Do you train with it often?" She teased. "Perhaps with regular sparring? P-practice is better than a whetstone, as they say."


"As for your other questions, perhaps we should find a couch and order some refreshment first? I might have to ask you to repeat them, lest I forget some."

"Oh. R-right. It is a little s-sparse in here..." Phelnia looked around. There was a bed, a pretty mosiac window, and a small desk. She cleared her throat and called to the door. "Hey, sis, can you get Cato? Tell him I need brandy and... m-maybe a couch."

"Heh. Sure."
"I'll get him - I need to go back to the front gate anyway."

One of the servants brought up a couch large enough for two cushioned with simurgh feathers. Both it and the Ambrose brandy seemed to be a recent import. Phelnia took the wooden chair from her desk and sat in it backwards, leaving the couch open for the Prince.

She wasn't against the wall anymore, at least.

[Aedilred]

That actually got a chuckle out of her. "Do you train with it often?" She teased. "Perhaps with regular sparring? P-practice is better than a whetstone, as they say."
"Not since I was taught how to use it in my youth, no. That sort of thing is my brother's department, not mine. Still, they say it's the sort of thing you never forget entirely; I am sure I could still wield it acceptably if necessary."


"Oh. R-right. It is a little s-sparse in here..." Phelnia looked around. There was a bed, a pretty mosiac window, and a small desk. She cleared her throat and called to the door. "Hey, sis, can you get Cato? Tell him I need brandy and... m-maybe a couch."

"Heh. Sure."
"I'll get him - I need to go back to the front gate anyway."

One of the servants brought up a couch large enough for two cushioned with simurgh feathers. Both it and the Ambrose brandy seemed to be a recent import. Phelnia took the wooden chair from her desk and sat in it backwards, leaving the couch open for the Prince.

She wasn't against the wall anymore, at least.

Daras relaxed slightly into the couch, taking note of her posture. For one who was apparently frightened and unnerved by the prospect of visitors, she struck a remarkably confident pose. Replaying those of her questions that he remembered, he realised that she had asked a number about the kingdom's military. Was this a ploy? Was she truly a shrinking violet, or a spy, sent to wring government secrets from him? Dammit, Fan, he thought, for a moment. You in Krozna, and I need you here. His brother was the one skilled at reading people - and was also impervious to being suckered in by a pretty face and a generous bosom. Even Kouros might have been better suited to this mission: his military bearing likely to impress his hostesses more. Still, he was here, and he'd have to make the best of it.

He spoke at some length of Nand, of warmth and dust and big skies, of the great reptiles that roamed the prairies and the mighty rivers that watered them and kept them alive; how their buildings (built of stone where affordable, and brick otherwise) were designed in such a way to be open to the sky wherever possible to catch the best of the light; of some of the great buildings he had seen: the Tower of the Twins, the ruined palace at Amaki; the Last Light at Elarendar.

"The queen rules," he went on, "though many of the setrapa are rather powerful and a few believe themselves independent of her authority. Of late we have had cause to correct a few of these misapprehensions, and the rest are quickly falling into line. In practice though the kingdom is largely ruled by the civil service and the bureaucracy, for the queen cannot be everywhere at once. Indeed, she has been out of the kingdom for so long that in practice she cannot rule at all at the moment, and her authority is delegated to her husband, the Prince Regent.

"As for our army," he gave her a slight smile - "I am loath to go into too much detail, lest in some future war it turn out that I have unwittingly given away military secrets and I consequently find myself in a darkened cell. But we are proud of our army, all the same."

[HalfTangible]

"Not since I was taught how to use it in my youth, no. That sort of thing is my brother's department, not mine. Still, they say it's the sort of thing you never forget entirely; I am sure I could still wield it acceptably if necessary."

Daras relaxed slightly into the couch, taking note of her posture. For one who was apparently frightened and unnerved by the prospect of visitors, she struck a remarkably confident pose. Replaying those of her questions that he remembered, he realised that she had asked a number about the kingdom's military. Was this a ploy? Was she truly a shrinking violet, or a spy, sent to wring government secrets from him? Dammit, Fan, he thought, for a moment. You in Krozna, and I need you here. His brother was the one skilled at reading people - and was also impervious to being suckered in by a pretty face and a generous bosom. Even Kouros might have been better suited to this mission: his military bearing likely to impress his hostesses more. Still, he was here, and he'd have to make the best of it.

He spoke at some length of Nand, of warmth and dust and big skies, of the great reptiles that roamed the prairies and the mighty rivers that watered them and kept them alive; how their buildings (built of stone where affordable, and brick otherwise) were designed in such a way to be open to the sky wherever possible to catch the best of the light; of some of the great buildings he had seen: the Tower of the Twins, the ruined palace at Amaki; the Last Light at Elarendar.

"The queen rules," he went on, "though many of the setrapa are rather powerful and a few believe themselves independent of her authority. Of late we have had cause to correct a few of these misapprehensions, and the rest are quickly falling into line. In practice though the kingdom is largely ruled by the civil service and the bureaucracy, for the queen cannot be everywhere at once. Indeed, she has been out of the kingdom for so long that in practice she cannot rule at all at the moment, and her authority is delegated to her husband, the Prince Regent.

"As for our army," he gave her a slight smile - "I am loath to go into too much detail, lest in some future war it turn out that I have unwittingly given away military secrets and I consequently find myself in a darkened cell. But we are proud of our army, all the same."((And now I'm unsure how well I'm communicating that Phelnia is warming up to him but still nervous))

Phelnia's face had been marred by her scarring, but she still fairly pretty... And her (crude) moonsilver breastplate did seem a little large for her relatively short stature... The fact that she had an identical twin didn't hurt matters either; many men had fantasies along those lines.

As Daras spoke of the various features of his land, Phelnia would interrupt by asking for clarification, the meaning of a term, how an open building dealt with rainwater, or even just to ask him something else. As they spoke, however, Daras would notice that Phelnia's questions were all geared away from individual people, was stuttering whenever she wasn't asking a question, and while she was sitting in a more confident posture than before, her arms were still trembling and she kept glancing at the door.

... And occasionally at his 'weapon'.

She was drinking a bit of the brandy when he mentioned that he couldn't talk about the military.

She immediately choked and coughed on the alcohol. *hack* "WHAT?! They can throw you into prison for talking about your military?!" The girl's expression was somewhere between shocked and baffled. "WHY?! I-I can understand not talking a-about developing t-technologies, spy w-w-networks or even your current t-troop composition but your country's military is something to be shown off, not hidden away!"

[Mary_Sue]

"Reza of Nand, milady," he said, with a low bow. "I am sure any error is mine; I must have mumbled when I made my introduction. Your ladies have been most hospitable while my Ambrosan friend had the pleasure of your attention." He glanced in the direction of Maldarr with a scarcely perceptible smirk.

From somewhere he produced a roll of vellum which he presented to the queen with another bow. "I have been appointed as ambassador to your court by Prince-Regent Kusal; here are my credentials."


Maldarr stepped out of Thalia's room, carrying Nyle who was sleeping in his arms. He grinned in amusement to see the Nend's predicament, and leaned over the queen,

"I will be back with him tonight." He kissed Thalia on the head and met the man's eyes, smirking, before leaving with the child to go show him off to Derris and Belinda.

Helia contritely handed her queen the offered roll of vellum, her cheeks still pink though a gleam of amused mischief lurked behind her eyes. Thalia took the scroll and read it carefully, brow furrowed as she considered this offer from the Nanda carefully. The Nand Being a close ally of the Ambrose, she desired peaceful relations with them as well, for her country and her children's benefit. The fact that they sent a man as an ambassador bespoke a surprisingly shrewd diplomatic move. From the looks of it, she could expect any number of blue haired babes to be born among her Handmaidens. She snorted and shook her head, she could not begrudge them their fun, but she vowed to keep an eye on this Reza, he struck her as a bit of a rogue.

"Very well, are you are to travel back to Avonlea with us at our departure then?" She rolled up the scroll and tucked it away with some other documents for her records.

"Helia, will you please see to arranging quarters for our new Ambassador when we arrive back at the Keep?" It looked as though she was bustling to get ready and out the door.

"I would stay and speak to you further on what to expect when we arrive, but I'm afraid I have another engagement that needs to be seen to straight away. And besides, I would say you are in good hands here. Please let Helia know if you require anything further from us, I'm positive she would see to your needs satisfactorily." With a perfunctory nod to the Nend, and a wink to Helia, she was out the door, the cool mountain breeze refreshing in the warmth of their chambers.



Helia's body stilled and stiffened at the ethereal woman's touch, mesmerized by the unending pit of darkness that were her eyes. Her touch was at the same time cool and soothing and electric and alarming. She shivered slightly at the pale woman's words as she came close enough to kiss. As she was released, the world which had been frozen as she stood beneath The Orm's scrutinizing gaze, regained it's color and rushed back into motion as if to catch up with the the time lost as she had stood frozen under her touch. She blinked prettily as she came back to her senses, her eyes wide as she still held the gaze of the Aeldir,

"I will alert my Queen immediately, M'Lady." She curtsied again. Her voice, though clear, was soft as if it came from far away. The clarion muted.

Once Helia had taken a moment to relay her experience with the Aeldir of the Winter Court, Thalia had been most intrigued by the her account of the unusual encounter. She had felt a bit of a guilty pang leaving the Nend dignitary so brusquely, but her curiosity had overcome propriety, and so she found herself scurrying alone through the maze of the foreign delegation's quarters to reach the relative isolation of the Aeldir's quarters. Briefly wishing she had brought a Herald, she announced herself to the Summer Rangers flanking the door.

"High Queen Thalia Darkthorn to see Lady Winter." She realized she did not know the creature's proper name and decided Lady Winter was duly respectful. She pulled the soft blue hood that framed her face back off of her hair and tucked her unruly yellow curls behind her ears, waiting patiently, but anxiously to be seen.

[TheDarkDM]

The Orm and the High Queen

The Rangers exchanged an unreadable look before bowing the High Queen of Avonlea into a chamber off the main apartments. The inside of the room, which must normally have served as servant's quarters, was characteristically Primal, though over the small cot was hung a length of shimmering black sailcloth. In the dim light of flickering torches, the shroud seemed to sparkle with inner stars, and was distracting enough to obfuscate the presence of the woman sitting in a shadowed corner until she stood to greet her guest. The Orm examined the High Queen with much the same intensity as she had her handmaiden, and a slight smile betrayed her pleasure at seeing the tales had not much exaggerated Thalia Darkthorn's beauty.

"Greetings, High Queen. Thank you for agreeing to meet with me in such humble surroundings. They are beneath you. You do me a great honor in your choice of address, but I am afraid I cannot accept the honorific."

The Orm's smile broadened, and she turned enough for Thalia to see a second chair waiting near the first, a crystal decanter sitting on the small table between them.

"There is but a Lord Winter in the Courtlands, much as there is but a Lady Autumn. While every court maintains a close ring of advisors and courtiers, none but the four bear the title of Lord. An odd custom to those not of Aeldir blood, perhaps, but our service and our oaths of allegiance date from before the fall of your old empires. Please, will you sit?"

The Orm gestured to the newly revealed chair, returning to her original seat as the High Queen joined her.

"You have shown me great respect in coming so swiftly, and I must return your consideration. I am called Danu Llaeth and, unbeknownst to most here, within the Winter Court I am The Orm."

She paused a moment, only to chuckle at the absence of recognition in the High Queen's eyes.

"I apologize, even I sometimes forget that our ancient ways do not extend beyond the shores of Tir Amser. The Orm is best described as High Captain of the Winter Fleet, in matters of both peace and war, second only to The Dullahan among Lord Winter's retinue. I must tell you that our Courts greatly admire your offer of sanctuary to the vanquished remnants of Luska and the Tillwell. They fought well, and with honor - they deserve to find succor beyond the reach of our vow. But that is a sad topic, for a day less filled with celebration. Might I offer you some refreshment, High Queen?"

[Kasanip]

The Summer Aeldir turned to his fellow at post and raised an eyebrow, carrying on in the Aeldir tongue for a moment. The guard turned back to Oshenvar and gave a brief nod before opening the door to the salon interior of the Aeldir apartment. Lady Autumn and Duke Sand were sitting around the central table speaking quietly in the Aeldir language and both looked up as the door opened.

Seeing Oshenvar Cynel's mouth spread into a smile and she stood up, "Ah! Our cousins the Dhuda Loka, please, come in, have a seat! Would you like some Marigold Rose nectar?"

As Cynel spoke Sand quietly slipped away, offering only a brief nod to the guest before disappearing further into the quarters.



Cynel's face softened into a mixture of appreciation and pity. The kind of look that might be given to a caged animal trying to escape its confines as she listened to Chesuka talk. As she finished and asked her question Cynel pursed her lips for a moment before answering.

"I'm afraid I don't see much of a future at all if you plan to keep fighting us," she said honestly, "I don't care if your council fails to oversee its merchants, they were Luskans and they acted against us. You claim leadership of the Luskans and so you have been chosen to answer for it, a less bloody affair than tracking down each merchant individually."

"I admire your desire to rule over more people and claim them as your own, but I don't care what race the people of Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti are. I don't care if you claim they are Luskans. They live on different islands, islands we intend to control. The Aeldir are capable of ruling over a plethora of people, be it the Gesh in the east, the humans of Twilight, or our own fellow Aeldir. And we will rule in Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti."

She paused to sip her wine, it truly was a wonderful vintage and for a moment she pondered the benefits of retaining Luska itself purely for their vineyards.

"I think you may have a poor memory if you do not remember the arrival of our diplomats opposite your own in Gullinbursti and Rivo Alto. We have desired the islands since their discovery by the Spring Court and your own explorers. As I have already stated, it was our intent to take both soon but the Luskan Trade Network forced our hand to accelerate our plans and enhance them to include Luska itself. And now we are back where we began this conversation. Where three options present themselves. We continue to occupy all three islands, you fight us, we fight back and you likely die. True, you may kill one or more of us but another will take our place. Nothing changes and a bloody affair is left in our wake. The second option is we acquiesce to your request that we surrender that which we conquered. I see no reason to do that however. Option one is far less likely to be costly to us than it is to you and retains us more so of the two we would prefer it."

Cynel leaned forward now and pulled a document from the table, turning it to face Chesuka and sliding it across the table.

"We also have option three, a compromise between our realms. You, Chesuka, accept responsibility and apologize for the thievery that occurred on the Luskan trade network as well as signing an agreement giving up all claim and recognizing Rose Court sovereignty in Gullunbursti and Rivo Alto. You pledge yourself and your successors as Protectorates of the Rose Courts. This means you recognize the Rose Courts as your sovereign protectors, your realm shall not seek to bring harm against any of the Rose Demesne, and the resources of your realm are made available first to the Rose Demesne."

"In return, the Rose Courts will return Luska proper to your control, we shall not interfere in your governance so long as it does not threaten the interests of the Rose Courts, and we shall aid you where we can in expansion and development of your realm. Notably, the Maurader Isles to your south are promised to be turned over to your control if, in four years time, you have proven yourself trustworthy and honorable to your word and are capable of administrating the region."

Cynel leaned back, allowing Chesuka to look over the document and think before responding.


What it says and what we discussed in PM. Luska becomes a Protectorate of the Rose Courts (fluff-only, no mechanics but makes Luska a vassal-like) and signs an agreement not to go to war/cause harm/otherwise interfere in Rose Court business. Chesuka also accepts responsibility for the thievery and thus the war and surrenders Luskan claims to Regions 10 and 12.

In exchange we give you Luska (9) back and promise not to interfere with you again so long as you stick to your end of the bargain. We will also give you the Marauder Isles (26) in 2 rounds if the deal is kept to and you feel like you can handle the extra region.


Chesuka and Lady Autumn


Chesuka did not sigh as Lady Autumn brushed aside the issue of Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti. However, she had expected this. The Aeldir did not understand families or clans, and Lady Autumn already admitted it was the islands they wanted. Land, for some purpose. Although they already had a home.
But Chesuka knew Lady Autumn could be uncaring about this. Because if the resistance continued to fight to free Luska, especially Fenikia and Arkadia, then it might be a long time to free Rivo Alto, Erymanthos and Gullinbursti. If it was possible.
Chesuka made a secret glance at the map on the table while she thought. Already the Aeldir had taken islands to the south, and the coast of the East.
We are truly trapped in a cage. She thought sadly. If the resistance continued,to fight, it might be a nuisance to the Aeldir. However, if Luska was freed in this way, even the Misty Sea would be hostile to them. the undine and seagull clan could not go anywhere. They would always be threatened, until they were forced to flee. Or until the Aeldir decided they wanted more land.
She looked up at Lady Autumn who was drinking the wine pleasantly.
Truly, she is a powerful leader. Could not helped to be thought. The clans of Luska were not united like the Aeldir. The clans were seperate and unique, but divided. United in resistance against the Aeldir, but now maybe it was too late. And Chesuka was surprised by the admiration, even though there was a sad feeling, too.
If I accept this, everyone will think I am a rascal. However, in some ways there was only a slight bitter smile.
Well, already many think such. And in such a way, there was a new inspiration.
Chesuka looked at the document. And then she removed her headband, letting her dark, silky and perfumed hair to flow freely. Then she tied it back with a cord pulled from her sleeve.

She picked up the ink and brush and signed the document. Then she drank even the last drop of the marigold nectar.
Somehow, the bitter taste in her mouth had turned a comforting sweet. Maybe that is the taste of such a surrender.

Then she stood up and took the gourd from the Aeldir servant. Without another option, she could only make rituals as a priestess, and so it was this action. She curtsied and poured the sunset wine for Lady Autumn, as a servant and priestess could for offering.
And to replace the gourd, Chesuka lowered herself to her knees and bowed in apology and submission, to touch her naked forehead to the floor.
"I, Chesuka of the Raccoon Dog clan, declare my responsibility for the thievery that occurred in the luskan trade network. I apologize to the Aeldir, to Lady Autumn and beg for mercy for my clan, and for the other people of twilight, who are innocent from my crime." She paused, surprised her eyes were wet. However, she would not cry over a lie, if it was made to save her friends and clans. Her voice was calm and her body was calm, too. She continued without raising her head.
"As the leader of the Luskan resistance movement, I recognize the Rose Court as the sovereignty in Rivo Alto, in Gullinbursti, and Erymanthos, and renounce any claim of the people of twilight to those lands. Furthermore, I surrender and end our resistance against our sovereign protector, Lady Autumn, and the Aeldir Rose Courts. I pledge myself and my successors, should we, with the favor of our Lady, be made a protectorate of the Rose Courts, to not seek to bring harm against any of the Rose Demesne, and the resources of our home are made available first to our benevolent sovereigns, the Aeldir of the Rose Courts."
Chesuka took deep breath.
"I beg for the mercy and wisdom of our sovereigns to govern us responsibly, and to protect us."
Chesuka finished and waited in this position, to stare at the floor and realized her eyes were dry again.

[Reggiejam]

"Of course, Lady Autumn. It is a standard to accept your host's offer, is it not?" As Oshenvar sat down, he felt it necessary to inquire as to the exit of Duke Sand. "So, why did your friend there leave? I remember that Vinariun recalled such an individual at Tir Gwydr, would they be related somehow?"

"One in the same actually," Cynel smiled, "A quick eye, worthy of a Ranger. What did you say your name was?" she asked, whether intentionally or unintentionally avoiding the answer to his question was unclear.


Chesuka and Lady Autumn


Chesuka did not sigh as Lady Autumn brushed aside the issue of Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti. However, she had expected this. The Aeldir did not understand families or clans, and Lady Autumn already admitted it was the islands they wanted. Land, for some purpose. Although they already had a home.
But Chesuka knew Lady Autumn could be uncaring about this. Because if the resistance continued to fight to free Luska, especially Fenikia and Arkadia, then it might be a long time to free Rivo Alto, Erymanthos and Gullinbursti. If it was possible.
Chesuka made a secret glance at the map on the table while she thought. Already the Aeldir had taken islands to the south, and the coast of the East.
We are truly trapped in a cage. She thought sadly. If the resistance continued,to fight, it might be a nuisance to the Aeldir. However, if Luska was freed in this way, even the Misty Sea would be hostile to them. the undine and seagull clan could not go anywhere. They would always be threatened, until they were forced to flee. Or until the Aeldir decided they wanted more land.
She looked up at Lady Autumn who was drinking the wine pleasantly.
Truly, she is a powerful leader. Could not helped to be thought. The clans of Luska were not united like the Aeldir. The clans were seperate and unique, but divided. United in resistance against the Aeldir, but now maybe it was too late. And Chesuka was surprised by the admiration, even though there was a sad feeling, too.
If I accept this, everyone will think I am a rascal. However, in some ways there was only a slight bitter smile.
Well, already many think such. And in such a way, there was a new inspiration.
Chesuka looked at the document. And then she removed her headband, letting her dark, silky and perfumed hair to flow freely. Then she tied it back with a cord pulled from her sleeve.

She picked up the ink and brush and signed the document. Then she drank even the last drop of the marigold nectar.
Somehow, the bitter taste in her mouth had turned a comforting sweet. Maybe that is the taste of such a surrender.

Then she stood up and took the gourd from the Aeldir servant. Without another option, she could only make rituals as a priestess, and so it was this action. She curtsied and poured the sunset wine for Lady Autumn, as a servant and priestess could for offering.
And to replace the gourd, Chesuka lowered herself to her knees and bowed in apology and submission, to touch her naked forehead to the floor.
"I, Chesuka of the Raccoon Dog clan, declare my responsibility for the thievery that occurred in the luskan trade network. I apologize to the Aeldir, to Lady Autumn and beg for mercy for my clan, and for the other people of twilight, who are innocent from my crime." She paused, surprised her eyes were wet. However, she would not cry over a lie, if it was made to save her friends and clans. Her voice was calm and her body was calm, too. She continued without raising her head.
"As the leader of the Luskan resistance movement, I recognize the Rose Court as the sovereignty in Rivo Alto, in Gullinbursti, and Erymanthos, and renounce any claim of the people of twilight to those lands. Furthermore, I surrender and end our resistance against our sovereign protector, Lady Autumn, and the Aeldir Rose Courts. I pledge myself and my successors, should we, with the favor of our Lady, be made a protectorate of the Rose Courts, to not seek to bring harm against any of the Rose Demesne, and the resources of our home are made available first to our benevolent sovereigns, the Aeldir of the Rose Courts."
Chesuka took deep breath.
"I beg for the mercy and wisdom of our sovereigns to govern us responsibly, and to protect us."
Chesuka finished and waited in this position, to stare at the floor and realized her eyes were dry again.


Though Chesuka could not witness it with her eyes bent to the floor a wicked smile, couched in the appearance of pleasure crossed Cynel's face. The soft landings of her feet sounded beside Chesuka as she stood at the end of Chesuka's pledge and the beginning of her request. A beat, filled with the lives of the Luskan clans and the weight of the decision being made here in this salon of Valkyrie pressed down on both Lady Autumn and Chesuka in equal measure.

"Arise child, arise as Chesuka of Luska, Protectorate of the Rose Courts," Cynel held her hand out to gingerly cup the young woman's face as she raised her head from the floor and smiled down into her eyes with all the woeful care of a mother to her child.

"The agreement is forged," she intoned ritualistically, "and it is recognized by gods and mortals."

She gave a nod to Chesuka, encouraging her to her feet and smiled at her before taking her own seat and signing the document in turn, pulling a copy free for Chesuka to take.

"You are welcome to stay here," she interrupted the silence as her pen finished its scrawl, "but I understand if you wish to go and speak with your friends and to explain things now."


OOC: Going to put this in my actions for the round


Luskan Contract

This contract is a binding legal and contractual obligation between the signatories, their heirs, and their represented bodies concerning the governance and disposition of the island of Luska.

Chesuka of Luska recognizes and incorporates the blame for the war in which Luska was taken by the Rose Courts in the common year 106 onto her shoulders. She accepts responsibility for the thievery of the "Luskan Trade Network" and her responsibility in starting the war with the Rose Courts. For this she and the people of Luska shall be granted mercy.

Chesuka of Luska recognizes this mercy is beget to her by the Rose Courts. So too does she recognize the right of the Rose Courts to Luska by right of conquest and thus recognizes the Rose Courts as her and her successors sovereign for its return. For this she is restored to rulership of the island of Luska.

Chesuka of Luska surrenders her and her people's claims to the islands known as Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti north of the island of Luska to the Rose Courts. For this she shall be granted the "Isle of the Free Men" to her south within four years from the signing of this document.

Chesuka of Luska, her proper successors, and the people they represent shall be so recognized as Protectorates of the Rose Courts, and Members of the Second Order within the Rose Demesne. No harm shall be sought against them from within the Rose Demesne, nor shall they seek to cause harm to the Demesne in turn. So too shall the resources of Luska be made available to other members of the Rose Demesne as needed and Luska shall be cared for in turn.

So signed this day, in the common year 108

Cynel Bres, Lady Autumn of the Rose Courts
Chesuka of Luska

[Aedilred]

((And now I'm unsure how well I'm communicating that Phelnia is warming up to him but still nervous))

Phelnia's face had been marred by her scarring, but she still fairly pretty... And her (crude) moonsilver breastplate did seem a little large for her relatively short stature... The fact that she had an identical twin didn't hurt matters either; many men had fantasies along those lines.

As Daras spoke of the various features of his land, Phelnia would interrupt by asking for clarification, the meaning of a term, how an open building dealt with rainwater, or even just to ask him something else. As they spoke, however, Daras would notice that Phelnia's questions were all geared away from individual people, was stuttering whenever she wasn't asking a question, and while she was sitting in a more confident posture than before, her arms were still trembling and she kept glancing at the door.

... And occasionally at his 'weapon'.

She was drinking a bit of the brandy when he mentioned that he couldn't talk about the military.

She immediately choked and coughed on the alcohol. *hack* "WHAT?! They can throw you into prison for talking about your military?!" The girl's expression was somewhere between shocked and baffled. "WHY?! I-I can understand not talking a-about developing t-technologies, spy w-w-networks or even your current t-troop composition but your country's military is something to be shown off, not hidden away!"

"Well, as I say, it is largely dependent on what information you wish to know. Of course some things are common knowledge, but then if it were common knowledge you would not be asking about it. In warfare the element of surprise is important, and concealing information from one's enemies - or indeed, other parties who might later divulge that information to one's enemies - is likewise important. So, unless one's intention is to spread terror before an army to induce surrender upon the beginning of hostilities, it is unwise to give away too much new information, all the same. If your enemy is fighting in ignorance of your capabilities, the battle is half won.

"But I am not in military intelligence and I am not certain of what is considered highly sensitive and what is not; nor am I privy, I am sure, to the most sensitive information."

[HalfTangible]

"Well, as I say, it is largely dependent on what information you wish to know. Of course some things are common knowledge, but then if it were common knowledge you would not be asking about it. In warfare the element of surprise is important, and concealing information from one's enemies - or indeed, other parties who might later divulge that information to one's enemies - is likewise important. So, unless one's intention is to spread terror before an army to induce surrender upon the beginning of hostilities, it is unwise to give away too much new information, all the same. If your enemy is fighting in ignorance of your capabilities, the battle is half won.

"But I am not in military intelligence and I am not certain of what is considered highly sensitive and what is not; nor am I privy, I am sure, to the most sensitive information."

Phelnia's eye twitched, her expression uncomprehending. Daras might as well have told her that the fastest path to victory in battle was by baking a cake upside down. "That doesn't... Just because you know what your enemy can d-do doesn't mean you can stop them. If a b-bear charges at me, knowing its exact weight isn't going to stop it from bursting me o-open like an overripe tomato."

[moossabi]

"One in the same actually," Cynel smiled, "A quick eye, worthy of a Ranger. What did you say your name was?" she asked, whether intentionally or unintentionally avoiding the answer to his question was unclear.

Quickly realizing his error in etiquette, Oshenvar finished the sip of his beverage he was taking to rectify his mistake. "Oh, my apologies. So much travel has dulled my manners. I am Oshenvar, I handle foreign relations for the Uca Jajaka. The system seems to have worked for other lands, so we've decided to split up our control of Dhuda Besina. So far, all I've really done is open up venues for cooperation between the people to the North and South of us. I must say, the residents of those areas are very interesting to talk to with the exception of the Gnolls, of course. Those people are just wholly unaware as to the value of life..." Pausing to take a sip from his drink, Oshenvar moves the conversation to another topic. "So, I hear that the people of Tillwell got into a bit of a disagreement with you recently, but from what our friends in the Eastern villages have told us, it got rather out of hand. However, I'm sure nobody was really killed by this. After all, why would our relatives engage in such violent behavior?" The topical choice was premeditated, as the Dhuda Loka were concerned as to the well-being of their teachers. If anything serious had happened in the region, then that would be a cause for some concern for the well-being of their neighbors.

[Aedilred]

Phelnia's eye twitched, her expression uncomprehending. Daras might as well have told her that the fastest path to victory in battle was by baking a cake upside down. "That doesn't... Just because you know what your enemy can d-do doesn't mean you can stop them. If a b-bear charges at me, knowing its exact weight isn't going to stop it from bursting me o-open like an overripe tomato."

Daras had to work to conceal his expression, wondering for a moment if the girl was simple, or whether just hopelessly naive.

"No, but that is a false analogy," he said, pouring himself another drink. "If a bear is charging at you and you are defenceless then your intelligence has already failed you. If you planned to fight the bear, had learned how many bears were in the area, how many young they had, had the opportunity to recruit trappers and hunters to assist you, to acquire specialist equipment for hunting bears, scout the route through the bear's territory and prepare the terrain with traps and ambushes, then all of that - any of that - would prove extremely useful. Warfare is not the same as a stroll in the country interrupted by wildlife attack - or at least it is not in Nand."


Helia contritely handed her queen the offered roll of vellum, her cheeks still pink though a gleam of amused mischief lurked behind her eyes. Thalia took the scroll and read it carefully, brow furrowed as she considered this offer from the Nanda carefully. The Nand Being a close ally of the Ambrose, she desired peaceful relations with them as well, for her country and her children's benefit. The fact that they sent a man as an ambassador bespoke a surprisingly shrewd diplomatic move. From the looks of it, she could expect any number of blue haired babes to be born among her Handmaidens. She snorted and shook her head, she could not begrudge them their fun, but she vowed to keep an eye on this Reza, he struck her as a bit of a rogue.

"Very well, are you are to travel back to Avonlea with us at our departure then?" She rolled up the scroll and tucked it away with some other documents for her records.

"Helia, will you please see to arranging quarters for our new Ambassador when we arrive back at the Keep?" It looked as though she was bustling to get ready and out the door.

"I would stay and speak to you further on what to expect when we arrive, but I'm afraid I have another engagement that needs to be seen to straight away. And besides, I would say you are in good hands here. Please let Helia know if you require anything further from us, I'm positive she would see to your needs satisfactorily." With a perfunctory nod to the Nend, and a wink to Helia, she was out the door, the cool mountain breeze refreshing in the warmth of their chambers.
"With your permission, milady," Reza said. "I shall not detain you further." When the queen was gone he turned back to Helia. "I should not like to inconvenience you more than I already have, but it seems I am to stay with you a while longer. Have you any thoughts for entertainment or recreation in the absence of the queen?"

[HalfTangible]

Daras had to work to conceal his expression, wondering for a moment if the girl was simple, or whether just hopelessly naive.

"No, but that is a false analogy," he said, pouring himself another drink. "If a bear is charging at you and you are defenceless then your intelligence has already failed you. If you planned to fight the bear, had learned how many bears were in the area, how many young they had, had the opportunity to recruit trappers and hunters to assist you, to acquire specialist equipment for hunting bears, scout the route through the bear's territory and prepare the terrain with traps and ambushes, then all of that - any of that - would prove extremely useful. Warfare is not the same as a stroll in the country interrupted by wildlife attack - or at least it is not in Nand."

Phelnia shook her head vigorously. "That's not a proper comparison either, because the bear has his own hunters, trappers, scouts, and such. But even if you know he has all of that, you don't know what he's doing with any of it until he comes barreling at you. Banking on your opponent to know less than you is suicide! It's the one thing on the battlefield he has more control of than you do! I'll admit I don't have much of a mind for war (I was always more of a games and science girl) but giving control of the battle to your opponent sounds like the worst thing you could do!"

The shaking was gone now.

[Reggiejam]

Quickly realizing his error in etiquette, Oshenvar finished the sip of his beverage he was taking to rectify his mistake. "Oh, my apologies. So much travel has dulled my manners. I am Oshenvar, I handle foreign relations for the Uca Jajaka. The system seems to have worked for other lands, so we've decided to split up our control of Dhuda Besina. So far, all I've really done is open up venues for cooperation between the people to the North and South of us. I must say, the residents of those areas are very interesting to talk to with the exception of the Gnolls, of course. Those people are just wholly unaware as to the value of life..." Pausing to take a sip from his drink, Oshenvar moves the conversation to another topic. "So, I hear that the people of Tillwell got into a bit of a disagreement with you recently, but from what our friends in the Eastern villages have told us, it got rather out of hand. However, I'm sure nobody was really killed by this. After all, why would our relatives engage in such violent behavior?" The topical choice was premeditated, as the Dhuda Loka were concerned as to the well-being of their teachers. If anything serious had happened in the region, then that would be a cause for some concern for the well-being of their neighbors.

She raised an eyebrow, truly shocked by this Aeldir's naivety, "Of course there were deaths, there are always deaths in war. Soldiers from both sides were killed thanks to Rosenbaum's pride. There are deaths and killings everyday the world over thanks to the limited grasp of this world held by non-Aeldir. Of course we wish all could see with clarity the folly of fighting for selfish points of pride and vengeance but alas few share the wisdom granted to us Aeldir through our long lives."

Just then Duke Sand returned holding something in his hands which he walked over and handed to Cynel.

"Ah! Perfect!" she exclaimed with a smile, taking the item which appeared to be wrapped in cloth and coming over to sit near Oshenvar, "Here, cousin, a gift from one of the finest artisans within the Demesne, a Gesh by the name of Harrid Rutwal out of the Spine."

Cynel passed the small trinket to Oshenvar and pulled back the cotton covering as she did to reveal a miniature wooden carving of the Mahana de Rukha. It's detail was incredibly intricate and while Oshenvar could no doubt tell it was not carved based on sight of the great tree its structure and detail suggested a heavy amount of research and study of stories from the Dhuda Loka. It was carved of birch and polished to accent its natural whiteness with the delicate carvings of leaves meticulously painted a pale but strong pink. A hand and a half tall the diminutive carving captured well the essence of the Dhuda Loka's most sacred tree which housed their most sacred spirit.

"Tillwell residents were happy to entertain Harrid with tales of the Mahana de Rukha and he spoke to a few of your kinsmen as well. I hope it is to your liking and well portrays what I understand to be a most magnificent sign from the earth."

[moossabi]

She raised an eyebrow, truly shocked by this Aeldir's naivety, "Of course there were deaths, there are always deaths in war. Soldiers from both sides were killed thanks to Rosenbaum's pride. There are deaths and killings everyday the world over thanks to the limited grasp of this world held by non-Aeldir. Of course we wish all could see with clarity the folly of fighting for selfish points of pride and vengeance but alas few share the wisdom granted to us Aeldir through our long lives."

Just then Duke Sand returned holding something in his hands which he walked over and handed to Cynel.

"Ah! Perfect!" she exclaimed with a smile, taking the item which appeared to be wrapped in cloth and coming over to sit near Oshenvar, "Here, cousin, a gift from one of the finest artisans within the Demesne, a Gesh by the name of Harrid Rutwal out of the Spine."

Cynel passed the small trinket to Oshenvar and pulled back the cotton covering as she did to reveal a miniature wooden carving of the Mahana de Rukha. It's detail was incredibly intricate and while Oshenvar could no doubt tell it was not carved based on sight of the great tree its structure and detail suggested a heavy amount of research and study of stories from the Dhuda Loka. It was carved of birch and polished to accent its natural whiteness with the delicate carvings of leaves meticulously painted a pale but strong pink. A hand and a half tall the diminutive carving captured well the essence of the Dhuda Loka's most sacred tree which housed their most sacred spirit.

"Tillwell residents were happy to entertain Harrid with tales of the Mahana de Rukha and he spoke to a few of your kinsmen as well. I hope it is to your liking and well portrays what I understand to be a most magnificent sign from the earth."

(In response to the initial statement) "Yes, we knew that in order for a war to occur there had to be deaths. The warriors knew this and brought it upon themselves. Our main concern was for the people under this 'Rosenbaum's' rule who did no harm towards any . It is widely understood that death is natural and acceptable, but I am glad that no more than was necessary to restore order occurred."

After the re-entry of Duke Sand, Oshenvar took a few moments to examine the model. It was fairly accurate for a carver who had never seen the Mahana de Rukha in person. It was a waste of life, but a thoughtful one. "This is a nice gesture, and I appreciate the thought behind it. However, I am fairly certain that you have a few other things on your mind besides simple pleasantries. As much as I would enjoy discussion, I still have my colleagues waiting for me back in Dhuda Besina and I'm afraid that they may begin to worry if I am away for too long. This is, after all, our people's second venture to this sort of event, and I'd hate to come back to them with only a miniature of something that we are capable behold in all of its glory every day and a few tales of violent anti-equity humans."

[Reggiejam]

(In response to the initial statement) "Yes, we knew that in order for a war to occur there had to be deaths. The warriors knew this and brought it upon themselves. Our main concern was for the people under this 'Rosenbaum's' rule who did no harm towards any . It is widely understood that death is natural and acceptable, but I am glad that no more than was necessary to restore order occurred."

After the re-entry of Duke Sand, Oshenvar took a few moments to examine the model. It was fairly accurate for a carver who had never seen the Mahana de Rukha in person. It was a waste of life, but a thoughtful one. "This is a nice gesture, and I appreciate the thought behind it. However, I am fairly certain that you have a few other things on your mind besides simple pleasantries. As much as I would enjoy discussion, I still have my colleagues waiting for me back in Dhuda Besina and I'm afraid that they may begin to worry if I am away for too long. This is, after all, our people's second venture to this sort of event, and I'd hate to come back to them with only a miniature of something that we are capable behold in all of its glory every day and a few tales of violent anti-equity humans."

Once again the Dhuda Loka prompted a raise of Cynel's eyebrow, "I do of course but I was unaware of anything so brisk and pressing between our realms that demanded our immediate attention. Unless you simply wished to depart? It seems you have only just arrived but if your fellows are to be stuck waiting and worrying then I shouldn't be said to have kept you."

From all the stories she had heard of the Dhuda Loka it seemed they had taken great care and time in learning the trade tongue and so Cynel doubted it could be a translation issue from one of their diplomats sent abroad that was the source of the seeming rush and rudeness but privately she hoped it was. Or perhaps some other issue pulled at Oshenvar's mind, she could hardly know. Hopefully they would be able to have a real discussion at some event, but the questions she wished to ask demanded more time than any venue seemed capable of providing.

The other Lords and Lady of the Courts had expressed doubts about their cousin Aeldir so far removed from the society of the Courts but Cynel had assured them they were worth the effort. By virtue of being Aeldir they were to be free from harm brought upon them directly and it was her desire that they become Friends but every opportunity to begin down that path seemed to end before it had even begun.

[Aedilred]

Phelnia shook her head vigorously. "That's not a proper comparison either, because the bear has his own hunters, trappers, scouts, and such. But even if you know he has all of that, you don't know what he's doing with any of it until he comes barreling at you. Banking on your opponent to know less than you is suicide! It's the one thing on the battlefield he has more control of than you do! I'll admit I don't have much of a mind for war (I was always more of a games and science girl) but giving control of the battle to your opponent sounds like the worst thing you could do!"

The shaking was gone now.
"Of course, no comparison is perfect, but it is nevertheless closer than a simple chance encounter would be. In any case, I'm sure you'll agree that in any situation where you stand opposed to another, the more you know about them, the better your chances of victory. For the same reason, while you often cannot prevent your opponent gathering information about you, and as you say you cannot rely on their knowing nothing, or even their knowing less than you, it is nevertheless advisable not to present them with more information about yourself than necessary, and only a fool would do so."

[Mary_Sue]

The Orm and the High Queen

The Rangers exchanged an unreadable look before bowing the High Queen of Avonlea into a chamber off the main apartments. The inside of the room, which must normally have served as servant's quarters, was characteristically Primal, though over the small cot was hung a length of shimmering black sailcloth. In the dim light of flickering torches, the shroud seemed to sparkle with inner stars, and was distracting enough to obfuscate the presence of the woman sitting in a shadowed corner until she stood to greet her guest. The Orm examined the High Queen with much the same intensity as she had her handmaiden, and a slight smile betrayed her pleasure at seeing the tales had not much exaggerated Thalia Darkthorn's beauty.

"Greetings, High Queen. Thank you for agreeing to meet with me in such humble surroundings. They are beneath you. You do me a great honor in your choice of address, but I am afraid I cannot accept the honorific."

The Orm's smile broadened, and she turned enough for Thalia to see a second chair waiting near the first, a crystal decanter sitting on the small table between them.

"There is but a Lord Winter in the Courtlands, much as there is but a Lady Autumn. While every court maintains a close ring of advisors and courtiers, none but the four bear the title of Lord. An odd custom to those not of Aeldir blood, perhaps, but our service and our oaths of allegiance date from before the fall of your old empires. Please, will you sit?"

The Orm gestured to the newly revealed chair, returning to her original seat as the High Queen joined her.

"You have shown me great respect in coming so swiftly, and I must return your consideration. I am called Danu Llaeth and, unbeknownst to most here, within the Winter Court I am The Orm."

She paused a moment, only to chuckle at the absence of recognition in the High Queen's eyes.

"I apologize, even I sometimes forget that our ancient ways do not extend beyond the shores of Tir Amser. The Orm is best described as High Captain of the Winter Fleet, in matters of both peace and war, second only to The Dullahan among Lord Winter's retinue. I must tell you that our Courts greatly admire your offer of sanctuary to the vanquished remnants of Luska and the Tillwell. They fought well, and with honor - they deserve to find succor beyond the reach of our vow. But that is a sad topic, for a day less filled with celebration. Might I offer you some refreshment, High Queen?"

"Yes thank you, that would be lovely." Thalia took the chair that had recently appeared in the chamber, the glittering sailcloth lending an other worldliness to the otherwise stark space. Indeed her host herself was otherworldly in her beauty, though a scar marred her icy perfection, still the woman was compelling, Thalia could see how Helia might be affected so to happen upon such a creature unexpectedly.

"You do me honour with your kind words, Orm Danu, you are yourself possessing of a great beauty the likes of which I have never seen before. It is true, I know little of your realm, save for rumours and hearsay which I scarce dare credit. Although one of the rumours was that your lifespans encompass many of ours, and that seems to be the case from your own admission. Shall I too believe that you all of your Court turn into ravens upon dusk and feed upon the carrion of the day?" Thalia's small bow lips curved in a smile as she spoke, wondering too late if The Orm had a sense of humour and hoping she would not find offense with her words.

Thalia shifted imperceptibly at The Orm's mention of Avonlea's offer of sanctuary to those from the recently war-torn region.

"It only seemed right to try and help those poor souls who were displaced, even if it was by their own folly. As the Lady Daen grants us succor, so too do we the more fortunate have an obligation to nurture those in need. In truth, I had been eager to attend to the Aeldir delegation before my Handmaiden inconvenienced you so grievously, as to avoid a misunderstanding and hard feelings on the matter. I do not wish to draw the Aeldir's Ire upon my lands." At this, Thalia looked earnestly into the Orm's eyes and for the first time noticed how deep they went, centuries had past before this women's eyes, and she was drawn in by the depths of experiences unfathomable by a mere human.



"With your permission, milady," Reza said. "I shall not detain you further." When the queen was gone he turned back to Helia. "I should not like to inconvenience you more than I already have, but it seems I am to stay with you a while longer. Have you any thoughts for entertainment or recreation in the absence of the queen?"

Helia hesitated for a moment, so this Reza was to come to Avonlea and be part of their Court. She would like to take the measure of this man before entangling herself any further. Her eyes looked up to the other five Handmaidens, all pleading at her with their eyes and she sighed, both amused and vexed.

"Oh, go ahead." She waved concession at the maids and turned to leave as they eagerly plied the blue haired man with their pretty lips and soft flesh. She closed the door behind her and stood leaning against it. She had participated before in such lascivious activity with the others, but tonight she was not in the mood. A darkness had invaded her thoughts, she closed her eyes and the cold, white Aeldir sprang before her, and again she was swallowed into her eyes and shivered as she could hear the giggles of merriment through the door.

[HalfTangible]

"Of course, no comparison is perfect, but it is nevertheless closer than a simple chance encounter would be. In any case, I'm sure you'll agree that in any situation where you stand opposed to another, the more you know about them, the better your chances of victory. For the same reason, while you often cannot prevent your opponent gathering information about you, and as you say you cannot rely on their knowing nothing, or even their knowing less than you, it is nevertheless advisable not to present them with more information about yourself than necessary, and only a fool would do so.""He's right, you know." Varadia called. "The more you know the better you can prepare. On an unrelated side note, you need a thicker door."

Phelnia shook her head again. "Combat doesn't work like that. Even if you understand your opponent's abilities on an intellectual level, that's not going to prepare you for facing the real thing. So many factors influence how a battle will go - from the terrain you're fighting on to your mental state - that trying to cover all of them will give your plan too many moving parts and the whole thing will just fall apart. And in war, it's especially damaging. You might know, for example, that your enemy has strong cavalry. That doesn't mean you know how much cavalry the enemy is bringing to a fight."

[Aedilred]

"He's right, you know." Varadia called. "The more you know the better you can prepare. On an unrelated side note, you need a thicker door."

Phelnia shook her head again. "Combat doesn't work like that. Even if you understand your opponent's abilities on an intellectual level, that's not going to prepare you for facing the real thing. So many factors influence how a battle will go - from the terrain you're fighting on to your mental state - that trying to cover all of them will give your plan too many moving parts and the whole thing will just fall apart. And in war, it's especially damaging. You might know, for example, that your enemy has strong cavalry. That doesn't mean you know how much cavalry the enemy is bringing to a fight."

Daras sipped his drink quietly, thinking things over for a moment. "So, is it common practice in Primus for princesses to listen at doors?" he asked, casually, while he got his thoughts in order, and considered the apparent gap between their cultures.

He had been told Primus was a land of warriors, but he had not really appreciated until now - assuming Phelnia was typical of her people - that this mean warriors and not soldiers. It seemed the Primals trusted to the strength of their arm and their individual prowess more than they did strategy and intelligence. In truth, he realised he should not have been surprised, as they had known all along that the Primals were barbarians, yet the realisation in the middle of an otherwise civilised conversation took him aback slightly.

"It seems we must agree to disagree on that point, milady," he said, carefully. "It appears our experience and attitudes towards warfare are very different."


Helia hesitated for a moment, so this Reza was to come to Avonlea and be part of their Court. She would like to take the measure of this man before entangling herself any further. Her eyes looked up to the other five Handmaidens, all pleading at her with their eyes and she sighed, both amused and vexed.

"Oh, go ahead." She waved concession at the maids and turned to leave as they eagerly plied the blue haired man with their pretty lips and soft flesh. She closed the door behind her and stood leaning against it. She had participated before in such lascivious activity with the others, but tonight she was not in the mood. A darkness had invaded her thoughts, she closed her eyes and the cold, white Aeldir sprang before her, and again she was swallowed into her eyes and shivered as she could hear the giggles of merriment through the door.

Reza looked momentarily perplexed as Helia left, her abrupt departure taking him somewhat by surprise. Any attempt to enquire after that was soon lost, however, and it was some time before he had cause to think on it again.

Probably best if we leave that there for now! :smalltongue:

[TheDarkDM]

The Orm and the High Queen

Pouring a stream of marigold nectar into a fluted crystal glass, the Orm listened attentively to the High Queen. At her jest, a moment of silence, before a smile cracked on the Orm's face.

"Transform into ravens? No, nothing so dramatic, High Queen. Though I ken how the appearance of the Caillech at the Masquerade could have given birth to that rumor."

She settled back to listed to the rest, smile reduced to an almost imperceptible thing. At mention of the ire of her people, she raised a hand.

"You need not worry, High Queen, for your mercy does us no disrespect. True, we vowed war if Tillwell continued interfering in our affairs, but that is a vow kept. The rulers that defied us have seen their crowns sundered, their armies shattered. We have no interest in hunting down our fallen adversaries. So long as they give us no further insult. And the people they once ruled are now of the Demesne, and deserving of all that entails."

She leaned closer.

"But I understand your own realm's star is rising? Even in Tir Amser we hear whispers of your victory over the nature of your sun god, and your unfettered expansion. Congratulations are in order, I think. "

[HalfTangible]

Daras sipped his drink quietly, thinking things over for a moment. "So, is it common practice in Primus for princesses to listen at doors?" he asked, casually, while he got his thoughts in order, and considered the apparent gap between their cultures.

He had been told Primus was a land of warriors, but he had not really appreciated until now - assuming Phelnia was typical of her people - that this mean warriors and not soldiers. It seemed the Primals trusted to the strength of their arm and their individual prowess more than they did strategy and intelligence. In truth, he realised he should not have been surprised, as they had known all along that the Primals were barbarians, yet the realisation in the middle of an otherwise civilised conversation took him aback slightly.

"It seems we must agree to disagree on that point, milady," he said, carefully. "It appears our experience and attitudes towards warfare are very different.""She's my twin, Prince, I'd be in there if I didn't need to watch the door."
"THANK YOU, VARADIA, YOU CAN STOP NOW!"

From her position outside the door, Varadia smirked. It probably looked odd to Daras, but this was the most Phelnia had spoken to anyone in weeks beyond 'get out'. Whatever had possessed Breydice to bring him along, Varadia wanted to send it flowers. Phelnia probably would be back to cowering at her own shadow in a week, but for now she was enjoying herself. That was enough.

Phelnia nodded. "Of course, that's what makes foreign cultures so fascinating! You don't even consider just how ingrained your culture is into your thoughts and lifestyle until you meet another one! Like, for instance," She held up a finger. "Secundus wages its wars through economics and trade rather than through armies and military power. The Aima determine how attractive you are by how well your blood flows in your body. The Kingdom of Berrium is run by a man who's only allowed to have one wife, and that ruler isn't a king, as the name would suggest. And," She pointed to his clothing, "You're unarmored at a formal event in a foreign land."

[moossabi]

Once again the Dhuda Loka prompted a raise of Cynel's eyebrow, "I do of course but I was unaware of anything so brisk and pressing between our realms that demanded our immediate attention. Unless you simply wished to depart? It seems you have only just arrived but if your fellows are to be stuck waiting and worrying then I shouldn't be said to have kept you."

From all the stories she had heard of the Dhuda Loka it seemed they had taken great care and time in learning the trade tongue and so Cynel doubted it could be a translation issue from one of their diplomats sent abroad that was the source of the seeming rush and rudeness but privately she hoped it was. Or perhaps some other issue pulled at Oshenvar's mind, she could hardly know. Hopefully they would be able to have a real discussion at some event, but the questions she wished to ask demanded more time than any venue seemed capable of providing.

The other Lords and Lady of the Courts had expressed doubts about their cousin Aeldir so far removed from the society of the Courts but Cynel had assured them they were worth the effort. By virtue of being Aeldir they were to be free from harm brought upon them directly and it was her desire that they become Friends but every opportunity to begin down that path seemed to end before it had even begun.

"I'm sorry, my phrasing is still slightly off. The greater part of this language was only learned recently, and for one who is used to a different form of speech the transition can be... difficult." Oshenvar knew the mistake he had made, and mentally loathed himself for it. Not only had he screwed up chances of himself being acquainted with the Dhuda Loka's closest foreign friend, but had also messed up chances of getting to the topic that he wanted to get to. "To be frank, the main issue is this land. The value of a living being is very low here. Their weaponry is... unsettling to say the least. They've been giving us annoyed looks ever since we arrived, and the sooner this land is forgotten, the better. I apologize for my avoiding the subject, but I did not wish to offend you if you were indeed fond of this land. Perhaps after this event is over, we could find an environment more suitable for more informal matters?"

I really cannot phrase things well, can I? :smalltongue: I should have noted this previously, but since the week is nearing a close we should iron out an agreement before the ability to put it in our actions expires.

[QuintonBeck]

The Orm and the Jade Coalition

The Orm smiled at Leonard's introduction, bringing her fist to her heart in an oddly militant gesture for a woman gowned.

"Greetings then, sir. I am known as Danu Llaeth, of the Aeldir. I hoped I might speak with you of your homeland, and of how your people and mine might become friends?"

Leonard watched with rapt attention as the strange almost-human face moved with her words and the coldly beautiful tone of her voice carried across the distance between them. He was silent, perhaps a moment longer than normal before answering.

"We can discuss such matters inside, if you please," he stepped towards the door which was opened by the guardsman and he entered the quarters set aside for the Coalition. Little had been done to decorate or alter them spare a nine candled shrine set off in the corner burning dimly.

"Please, have a seat. I have some strawberry wine if you are interested?" taking his own seat in a cushioned chair Leonard looked over his guest with an appraising eye, "Are you...Aeldir perchance? I have heard talk of your people from the Primals. Forgive me if I am incorrect but you bear a resemblance to their tales."

Leonard pointedly decided it best not to include all the descriptions of the Aeldir the Primals had given, he didn't want a diplomatic incident after all.



The man was cautious, Derris noted, internally measuring the stranger.

"Certainly," Derris paused, collecting his thoughts and measuring how much he wanted to tell this man.

"Generations ago, our clans were a united force on our continent. We protected our people and drove our enemies before us so well, that we became complacent and eventually fell to infighting and petty squabbling. The clans became divided and insular, languishing in battles between each other for land and resources. Since I gained control of our historic capitol, near ten years ago now, I have managed to unite our clans once again, though sadly there are names that have been lost to history. But still I believe maintaining a strong bond will only be to the betterment of all my people, and we will be stronger for it, as will our allies." Derris paused to let the man take in his words.

"What of your lands? How did the Jade Coalition come to be?" His eyes left the stadium floor and the duelists to glance at the man, trying to glean his reaction to his words.

Leonard paid close attention to the words of the Ambrosan, noting the glazing over how the recent unification of the clans took place. Perhaps the most interesting and pertinent aspect of the history left to the imagination. Derris was either ashamed or humble Leonard surmised, perhaps both.

"Our people and their lands were once ruled by an empire. We were all provinces, made to fight, work, and die for a distant ruler. The empire collapsed under its own weight, but we were left connected by trade and families. A few warlords rose up from the ashes of the empire, trying to claim us through might of arms but the people united against them and destroyed them with the help of the Krolzer. The Council was formed from among the leaders of the towns and cities. The people are represented and make their own choices through their leaders. The Krolzer keeps the Coalition protected and trained. It is not without it's faults of course, but such a system...we find there are many who find it appealing and this is how we have grown."

Leonard paused as well before pressing, "Forgive me for returning to your tale, but you said you yourself united the disparate clans of your people. How did you accomplish this?"

[PepperP.]

Leonard paid close attention to the words of the Ambrosan, noting the glazing over how the recent unification of the clans took place. Perhaps the most interesting and pertinent aspect of the history left to the imagination. Derris was either ashamed or humble Leonard surmised, perhaps both.

"Our people and their lands were once ruled by an empire. We were all provinces, made to fight, work, and die for a distant ruler. The empire collapsed under its own weight, but we were left connected by trade and families. A few warlords rose up from the ashes of the empire, trying to claim us through might of arms but the people united against them and destroyed them with the help of the Krolzer. The Council was formed from among the leaders of the towns and cities. The people are represented and make their own choices through their leaders. The Krolzer keeps the Coalition protected and trained. It is not without it's faults of course, but such a system...we find there are many who find it appealing and this is how we have grown."

Leonard paused as well before pressing, "Forgive me for returning to your tale, but you said you yourself united the disparate clans of your people. How did you accomplish this?"

Derris swished the dregs of citrus slices around in his glass as the older man spoke, eyes drifting back to the duels, though his attention remained on Leonard's words. His forehead wrinkled at the unfamiliar word, "Krolzer". He was about to query the dignitary when he himself was asked to clarify. He had purposefully glanced over the recent unification of his clans, for quiet cunning bested boastful brawn, but if the truth helped speed establish amicable relations, it seemed to do little harm to speak freely.

"The Krolzer is your leader then? How did he gain power?" Derris was just about the Coalition as Leonard was about Ambrose, it seemed.

"As to how I united the clans, being a diplomat yourself, I'm sure you understand the tedium of coercion and negotiations. The Palamara wanted better irrigation in their scrub camps, the Rosso's wanted status, The Milonas wanted better housing in their swamps. Every clan needed to be spoken to by me individually, it took a long ten years but finally it was accomplished, and the great clans of old are united under Ambrose once again. That it could be done peacefully, nobody really thought possible, myself included to speak true, but the Fates aligned favorably and it has been done." That he had proven himself an able diplomat, nobody would have guessed ten years ago, Belinda had often despaired it in their early days together. He smiled to think of her exasperation with him.

"To be a bridge to our past, and uniting the clans in the present, is a gift that I am thankful for." Derris signaled the servant for more citrus water and tried to peer through the dust of the stadium as the next combatants were called into the arena.

[Mary_Sue]

The Orm and the High Queen

Pouring a stream of marigold nectar into a fluted crystal glass, the Orm listened attentively to the High Queen. At her jest, a moment of silence, before a smile cracked on the Orm's face.

"Transform into ravens? No, nothing so dramatic, High Queen. Though I ken how the appearance of the Caillech at the Masquerade could have given birth to that rumor."

She settled back to listed to the rest, smile reduced to an almost imperceptible thing. At mention of the ire of her people, she raised a hand.

"You need not worry, High Queen, for your mercy does us no disrespect. True, we vowed war if Tillwell continued interfering in our affairs, but that is a vow kept. The rulers that defied us have seen their crowns sundered, their armies shattered. We have no interest in hunting down our fallen adversaries. So long as they give us no further insult. And the people they once ruled are now of the Demesne, and deserving of all that entails."

She leaned closer.

"But I understand your own realm's star is rising? Even in Tir Amser we hear whispers of your victory over the nature of your sun god, and your unfettered expansion. Congratulations are in order, I think. "

Thalia sipped the golden liquid cautiously at first, and then with more pleasure as the sweet and crisp fluid flowed over her tongue, leaving her mouth tasting pleasantly of flowers. Years had passed since the ill-fated masquerade that her people had so fortuitously been unable to attend, thanks to a sad, but propitious turn of fate, and even still she heard drear rumours of the evil-omened flock of ravens that had come to make off with the dead man from Hess Tannen. She shivered, it would do well to remember the Aeldir were not wholly cognisable, and their ways ancient and strange. Still she had been welcomed and treated with respect on the two occasions she had chance to come upon them, perhaps amicable relations were possible where comprehension was not. She decided it was politic to not mention the Masquerade and pondered on "rulers that defied us have seen their crowns sundered, their armies shattered." a veiled threat perhaps, but one thinly so and not entirely unfounded. The Aeldir had been good as their word, vanquishing their foes with scarce difficulty, they were in the right to be confident in their station.

"Avonlea is yet a modest realm, Orm Danu. Perhaps we will come to greatness in my lifetime, if circumstances are favorable. We have had some luck in uniting some of our lost people who had disappeared over the Sentinels generations ago. It is well to be whole as a people, think you not?" She sipped her nectar, the flavour blossoming once again on her lips,

"Our envoy into the Temple of Daen has done herself and our nation a great boon by converting the Abbot to embrace the true nature of the Mother. I would not steal the glory which is rightfully hers." A smile curved her small, pink lips. The triumph of the abbot had been a glorious revelation.

[QuintonBeck]

Derris swished the dregs of citrus slices around in his glass as the older man spoke, eyes drifting back to the duels, though his attention remained on Leonard's words. His forehead wrinkled at the unfamiliar word, "Krolzer". He was about to query the dignitary when he himself was asked to clarify. He had purposefully glanced over the recent unification of his clans, for quiet cunning bested boastful brawn, but if the truth helped speed establish amicable relations, it seemed to do little harm to speak freely.

"The Krolzer is your leader then? How did he gain power?" Derris was just about the Coalition as Leonard was about Ambrose, it seemed.

"As to how I united the clans, being a diplomat yourself, I'm sure you understand the tedium of coercion and negotiations. The Palamara wanted better irrigation in their scrub camps, the Rosso's wanted status, The Milonas wanted better housing in their swamps. Every clan needed to be spoken to by me individually, it took a long ten years but finally it was accomplished, and the great clans of old are united under Ambrose once again. That it could be done peacefully, nobody really thought possible, myself included to speak true, but the Fates aligned favorably and it has been done." That he had proven himself an able diplomat, nobody would have guessed ten years ago, Belinda had often despaired it in their early days together. He smiled to think of her exasperation with him.

"To be a bridge to our past, and uniting the clans in the present, is a gift that I am thankful for." Derris signaled the servant for more citrus water and tried to peer through the dust of the stadium as the next combatants were called into the arena.

"Leader is not entirely accurate," Leonard mused, "Adjudicator would be a more appropriate translation. He carries out the will of the Council when it comes to the military and helps work through issues that the Council finds themselves stuck upon."

"He gained power..." Leonard paused, the subject was a delicate one and his history in it was not one that granted him an unbiased opinion, "by providing the people with what they needed to form the Council."

There was no need to mention the Krolzer's history before the Coalition or Leonard's own history with the Krolzer's late brother. If the Ambrosans sent a diplomat they would no doubt find out more in time. As he listened to Derris speak he considered the possibility of taking an Ambrose diplomat back with him and its increasing likelihood.

"Such statesmanship is admirable Protos," Leonard nodded, glancing at the fighting arena though he found the Ambrosan more interesting to observe, "You asked about an Ambrosan diplomat returning to the Coalition with me. I believe that can be arranged. Did you have anyone in mind?"

[DoomHat]

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRtn3ifjXLcM4WVGKwtrUfHq_gXP0nFi B8YE4u9lqe085nps-Ut
Roberto of the Ancient Journal was no immortal, but even as Fantastigoria struggled, it must never fall short of an opportunity to know more of the color and richness of the outside world.

The Ancient Journal started out in ages forgotten as the personal log of a wealthy Fanastigorian merchant's son. His elegant writing style and critical observational incitement received such acclaim that regular reproduction and distribution of its entries have become a regular staple among circulated letters in the country, and sometimes beyond.

Having no particular political standing beyond mild fame and travel papers authorizing him to act as the Maestro's proxy response to the invitation to attend, Roberto had so far done his best not to draw any great attention to himself. He was also of a fairly weak martial bent, as the country's greatest duelists remained at home to contend with... local matters.

He was merely content to absorb the setting and talk around him. Though he'd be remiss to turn down an opportunity for an interview.

[Gengy]

An Interview with Pride and Prejudice

Bas Pride prowled the tournament grounds, Warchod Prejudice and Owena of the Spring Court at his side. He had not seen much of interest, though he had been sure to stay away from the one they called Orm Danu. Pride could recognize a predator when he saw one; he did not know what the 'Winter' Aeldir hunted, but he did know he did not wish for any Salvax to be that one's prey. He had not yet met an Aeldir that he did not at least acknowledge as an equal, which made the Salvax Ri's decision to join together under the Rose Demesne a wise one.

Still, he was learning much from this trip. The world was a very large place. He never had had desires to be more than the Wild Lord, and having seen only a part of the alternatively strange and unusual creatures that lived beyond the sea, he was now even uncertain if he would ever again challenge the Salvax Ri for the spot of Alpha of Alphas of the Salvax. It would be bothersome to have to entreat with all of these... people. They were both insulting to his senses and curiosities that needed to be understood.

Take the weird man with the frilled head that made him look like some part lizard. ::Hunger. Safety?::

::Caution. Unsafe. Ambition. Hunger? Wanderlust.:: Warchod Prejudice stamped her large foot in place, as she looked upon the same man. She was advising they look elsewhere for food. The stranger did not seem safe to eat to her.

"Oh, you two. That's not food. That's just someone from Fantastigoria! They wear masks to cover their faces. Lady Spring rather likes them!" Owena grinned, as she waved at the frilled headed weird man. "Excuse me! Excuse me! Over here! Would you care to meet the representatives of the Salvax?"

[TheDarkDM]

The Orm and the High Queen

Thalia sipped the golden liquid cautiously at first, and then with more pleasure as the sweet and crisp fluid flowed over her tongue, leaving her mouth tasting pleasantly of flowers. Years had passed since the ill-fated masquerade that her people had so fortuitously been unable to attend, thanks to a sad, but propitious turn of fate, and even still she heard drear rumours of the evil-omened flock of ravens that had come to make off with the dead man from Hess Tannen. She shivered, it would do well to remember the Aeldir were not wholly cognisable, and their ways ancient and strange. Still she had been welcomed and treated with respect on the two occasions she had chance to come upon them, perhaps amicable relations were possible where comprehension was not. She decided it was politic to not mention the Masquerade and pondered on "rulers that defied us have seen their crowns sundered, their armies shattered." a veiled threat perhaps, but one thinly so and not entirely unfounded. The Aeldir had been good as their word, vanquishing their foes with scarce difficulty, they were in the right to be confident in their station.

"Avonlea is yet a modest realm, Orm Danu. Perhaps we will come to greatness in my lifetime, if circumstances are favorable. We have had some luck in uniting some of our lost people who had disappeared over the Sentinels generations ago. It is well to be whole as a people, think you not?" She sipped her nectar, the flavour blossoming once again on her lips,

"Our envoy into the Temple of Daen has done herself and our nation a great boon by converting the Abbot to embrace the true nature of the Mother. I would not steal the glory which is rightfully hers." A smile curved her small, pink lips. The triumph of the abbot had been a glorious revelation.
The Orm's attention remained on the High Queen as she spoke, white hair and skin nearly luminescent in the gloom, her eyes black mirrors that sparkled in the light of the sail cloth. She sipped at her own flute of nectar, the nostrils in her thin nose flaring slightly as they absorbed the scent of her homeland.

"Your humility is unnecessary, High Queen. While your territory may yet be incomplete, the virtues of your people are on ready display for those capable of seeing them. I have no doubt you will succeed in uniting your people, for my people well know the power of such a dream."

She lapsed into silence, remembering that it was a similar dream that had led the Geshemafar to ruin. A powerful dream, yes, but dangerous if not tempered by wisdom. She shook her head slightly, sending the braids that framed her head into a pendulous swing.

"But enough of my questions. I have no doubt you have some of your own, High Queen, especially when I consider the rumors that fly through this dismal city like gadflies."

The Orm and the Jade Coalition

Leonard watched with rapt attention as the strange almost-human face moved with her words and the coldly beautiful tone of her voice carried across the distance between them. He was silent, perhaps a moment longer than normal before answering.

"We can discuss such matters inside, if you please," he stepped towards the door which was opened by the guardsman and he entered the quarters set aside for the Coalition. Little had been done to decorate or alter them spare a nine candled shrine set off in the corner burning dimly.

"Please, have a seat. I have some strawberry wine if you are interested?" taking his own seat in a cushioned chair Leonard looked over his guest with an appraising eye, "Are you...Aeldir perchance? I have heard talk of your people from the Primals. Forgive me if I am incorrect but you bear a resemblance to their tales."

Leonard pointedly decided it best not to include all the descriptions of the Aeldir the Primals had given, he didn't want a diplomatic incident after all.
The Orm bowed in appreciation at Leonard's hospitality as he led the way into the Coalition's quarters, where her eyes roved quickly over the spare accommodations. In truth, she was somewhat surprised to see their spartan decoration matched those of the Aeldir - she had almost thought that another of Primus' ill-chosen snubs. Settling into a chair of her own, her arched eyebrows quirked at mention of strawberry wine.

"Strawberry wine? How could I refuse so generous an offer."

Once in possession of the drink, she settled in to listen to the Coalition diplomat's introduction, before a light laugh escaped her lips at mention of Primal rumors.

"Fear not dear sir, I will abstain from sprouting wings and taking to the air to hunt your children."

A wink accentuated her wry tone. In the still pause, she took a sip of the wine, rolling it over her tongue before swallowing slowly. She exhaled the scents of summer, and regarded the liquid with an appraising eye.

"Your wine is exquisite, delegate. Though I hazard it would find even greater appreciation in the Summer Court. Yes, I am of the Aeldir, of the Winter Court as I said. We are four, you see, Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter bound together by common purpose after a long history of conflict. I imagine you have heard much from the Primals, little of it true. I would gladly offer the answer to any questions you might have of us."

[Aedilred]

"She's my twin, Prince, I'd be in there if I didn't need to watch the door."
"THANK YOU, VARADIA, YOU CAN STOP NOW!"

From her position outside the door, Varadia smirked. It probably looked odd to Daras, but this was the most Phelnia had spoken to anyone in weeks beyond 'get out'. Whatever had possessed Breydice to bring him along, Varadia wanted to send it flowers. Phelnia probably would be back to cowering at her own shadow in a week, but for now she was enjoying herself. That was enough.

Phelnia nodded. "Of course, that's what makes foreign cultures so fascinating! You don't even consider just how ingrained your culture is into your thoughts and lifestyle until you meet another one! Like, for instance," She held up a finger. "Secundus wages its wars through economics and trade rather than through armies and military power. The Aima determine how attractive you are by how well your blood flows in your body. The Kingdom of Berrium is run by a man who's only allowed to have one wife, and that ruler isn't a king, as the name would suggest. And," She pointed to his clothing, "You're unarmored at a formal event in a foreign land."


Daras raised an eyebrow at the mention of Berrium. "Only" being allowed one wife? It sounded like the Primals had an even stranger idea of marriage than he had realised.

"It is exceptional for my people to wear armour anywhere," he said. "That is not so much a matter of custom as it is necessity. Even too much cloth will tire us out; armour is exhausting to wear. But I am puzzled why it should be considered formal dress, especially abroad. Surely to wear armour visibly would indicate a lack of trust in your host, whether ill intention of their part or simply that they are incapable of protecting you, to say nothing of the smell. I would have thought it the height of rudeness.

"Having said that, I was not aware this was to be a highly formal event when I arrived. I barely had time to dismount before your sister whisked me off here; I might at least have taken the time to brush the travelling dust from my sandals otherwise."

[Reggiejam]

"I'm sorry, my phrasing is still slightly off. The greater part of this language was only learned recently, and for one who is used to a different form of speech the transition can be... difficult." Oshenvar knew the mistake he had made, and mentally loathed himself for it. Not only had he screwed up chances of himself being acquainted with the Dhuda Loka's closest foreign friend, but had also messed up chances of getting to the topic that he wanted to get to. "To be frank, the main issue is this land. The value of a living being is very low here. Their weaponry is... unsettling to say the least. They've been giving us annoyed looks ever since we arrived, and the sooner this land is forgotten, the better. I apologize for my avoiding the subject, but I did not wish to offend you if you were indeed fond of this land. Perhaps after this event is over, we could find an environment more suitable for more informal matters?"

I really cannot phrase things well, can I? :smalltongue: I should have noted this previously, but since the week is nearing a close we should iron out an agreement before the ability to put it in our actions expires.

"I am no more fond of this land than yourself," Cynel assured Oshenvar, "The people here are backwards, unwashed savages with perverse obsessions with blood, violence, and vulgarity. As you say, it is not a land conducive to talks between burgeoning friends."

"Perhaps talk may better flow within the lands of the Rose Demesne and your own hallowed homeland. If it pleases you I should speak to Lady Spring about arranging a trading route between our holdings and your own. We desire to pass through them so that we may keep our bonded word with the mercenary king of the Stormland Holdings as well, for his assistance with the Geshemefar."


For now we can agree to a trade route to you/Stormland Holdings and mutual cultural exchange. Let it build slowly. I'll put something in my sub-actions.

[QuintonBeck]

The Orm and the Jade Coalition

The Orm bowed in appreciation at Leonard's hospitality as he led the way into the Coalition's quarters, where her eyes roved quickly over the spare accommodations. In truth, she was somewhat surprised to see their spartan decoration matched those of the Aeldir - she had almost thought that another of Primus' ill-chosen snubs. Settling into a chair of her own, her arched eyebrows quirked at mention of strawberry wine.

"Strawberry wine? How could I refuse so generous an offer."

Once in possession of the drink, she settled in to listen to the Coalition diplomat's introduction, before a light laugh escaped her lips at mention of Primal rumors.

"Fear not dear sir, I will abstain from sprouting wings and taking to the air to hunt your children."

A wink accentuated her wry tone. In the still pause, she took a sip of the wine, rolling it over her tongue before swallowing slowly. She exhaled the scents of summer, and regarded the liquid with an appraising eye.

"Your wine is exquisite, delegate. Though I hazard it would find even greater appreciation in the Summer Court. Yes, I am of the Aeldir, of the Winter Court as I said. We are four, you see, Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter bound together by common purpose after a long history of conflict. I imagine you have heard much from the Primals, little of it true. I would gladly offer the answer to any questions you might have of us."


Looked back and saw she introduced herself as of the Aeldir. Whoops! :smalltongue:


"The four seasons your courts are named after? Interesting," Leonard reclined back in a chair opposite the Orm, "A persistent tale I've heard, from Primus and others, is that the Aeldir are conquerors? The Aeldir, by my understanding, have involved themselves in two separate wars of conquest, overlapping even they say, and won them both, driving out and replacing the rulers who led their people?"

[PepperP.]

"Leader is not entirely accurate," Leonard mused, "Adjudicator would be a more appropriate translation. He carries out the will of the Council when it comes to the military and helps work through issues that the Council finds themselves stuck upon."

"He gained power..." Leonard paused, the subject was a delicate one and his history in it was not one that granted him an unbiased opinion, "by providing the people with what they needed to form the Council."

There was no need to mention the Krolzer's history before the Coalition or Leonard's own history with the Krolzer's late brother. If the Ambrosans sent a diplomat they would no doubt find out more in time. As he listened to Derris speak he considered the possibility of taking an Ambrose diplomat back with him and its increasing likelihood.

"Such statesmanship is admirable Protos," Leonard nodded, glancing at the fighting arena though he found the Ambrosan more interesting to observe, "You asked about an Ambrosan diplomat returning to the Coalition with me. I believe that can be arranged. Did you have anyone in mind?"

Derris nodded as Leonard spoke of a Council, the Protos had a small council of his own, not only to delegate various tasks to, but also to provide him a fresh point of view. He found it immensely valuable. In his head he reflected on his Council members, there was really only one logical choice for the position of Ambrosan Diplomat to the Jade Coalition, his older brother and sometime regent, Watkins Asker. He would be loathe to leave his wife and two small daughters, but he knew his brother well enough to know he could count on him to represent them well.

"If you gave your leave, I would send my brother, Watkins Asker. He has served me well as my Regent and on my Council in the past. He would be an able emissary, and his temperament would be well suited to your realm, I believe." His eyes left the dusty arena floor to turn towards the well-groomed man, Watkins and he were of an age. He confirmed the wisdom of his choice with a nod to himself, happily Watkins was in attendance and could leave with the Jade Coalition straight away.

[TheDarkDM]

The Orm and the Jade Coalition


"The four seasons your courts are named after? Interesting," Leonard reclined back in a chair opposite the Orm, "A persistent tale I've heard, from Primus and others, is that the Aeldir are conquerors? The Aeldir, by my understanding, have involved themselves in two separate wars of conquest, overlapping even they say, and won them both, driving out and replacing the rulers who led their people?"
The Orm nodded at the question, taking another sip of strawberry wine before responding.

"What you have heard is true, in the strictest sense. We have indeed conquered the lands of the Luskans and the Geshem, bloodlessly in the first case and with great struggle in the second. However, neither conflict was undertaken without first attempting peace. As our neighbors, it was inevitable that we would vie for control of the lawless regions in the borderlands, but with both Luskans and Geshem the Autumn Court attempted to broker a peaceful compromise. In the case of the Luskans, we believed them content to allow us two islands lying between our homeland and theirs in return for our expanding no further south, but when our diplomats landed to accept the promised fealty of the clan leaders on the islands they were set upon. Luska, you see, had enticed their fealty in secret despite our agreement. We thought this betrayal an isolated incident, and even applauded Luska's subtlety, but when they attempted to usurp control of our resources our admiration died. They had no armies to speak of, but given their prior treachery it was decided that conquest entire was the wisest course of action.

In the case of the Geshem, our conflict was not precipitated by direct contact, but rather through the intermediary of two warlords unwilling to entertain diplomatic overtures. We Aeldir refused to recognize a pair of bandit kings, but the Geshemafar chose to back them. I know not why, save for the fact that the warlords were Geshem as well. They sent their armies to support the warlords, and when approached by the Autumn Court regarding a peaceful resolution they claimed primacy over both regions on the grounds of uniting the Geshem. The Aeldir already controlled two regions populated by Geshem, so their rhetoric seemed to promise war in the future even if we had bowed to the power of their warlord allies. So we vowed war, and the Aeldir do not make our vows lightly.

So the answer to your question, Representative, is that we Aeldir are conquerors. Or at least have become conquerors. But we did not seek out conquest, or the brutal challenge of war. Conquest was forced on us, lest our interests and our people come under continued assault. Perhaps you think our methods extreme - we well know there are many beyond the borders of the Demesne who would rather we had stopped short of complete victory. But it is our feeling that such half measures only lead to greater suffering in the long term. Better to cut out the rot in a single tree than let the forest fester."

[HalfTangible]

Daras raised an eyebrow at the mention of Berrium. "Only" being allowed one wife? It sounded like the Primals had an even stranger idea of marriage than he had realised.

"It is exceptional for my people to wear armour anywhere," he said. "That is not so much a matter of custom as it is necessity. Even too much cloth will tire us out; armour is exhausting to wear. But I am puzzled why it should be considered formal dress, especially abroad. Surely to wear armour visibly would indicate a lack of trust in your host, whether ill intention of their part or simply that they are incapable of protecting you, to say nothing of the smell. I would have thought it the height of rudeness.

"Having said that, I was not aware this was to be a highly formal event when I arrived. I barely had time to dismount before your sister whisked me off here; I might at least have taken the time to brush the travelling dust from my sandals otherwise."

Phelnia stared at Daras, completely silent for a moment. She'd forgotten she was speaking with a man. "Why would I wear anything but armor to meet with politicians? Am I supposed to trust them?"

When he brought up the issue of a lack of trust, she giggled. "That is one way of looking at it, I suppose. But I like ceremonial armor. Wolf pauldrons, sweeping wings shining golden in the morning light..."

In Primus, going without a weapon or armor indicated that you didn't think the people you were with capable of harming you, nor even presenting a challenge. It wasn't a matter of willingness. You could get away with going unarmored, since it was far more expensive than a simple blade. And while it was childish to go walk around with solely a dagger, it was generally assumed that the wielder was too poor to afford much better.

Foreigners were expected to be uncultured and rude, of course, so that wasn't a problem for Daras.

She shook her head as he brought up formal wear. "I meant the tournament... though yes, that is understandable. Breydice is very..." She hesitated. "Driven? Would that be the word?" She bowed her head. "I'm sorry to have kept you here for so long under such circumstances."

((I never finished this post, but I also don't want to delete it entirely. So I'm putting it here)

[A midnight meeting]

A silence had fallen over the city that night. This night, Valkyrie rested from its labors. The festival was over now, as was the Grand Tournament. All of the foreign powers had been sent off with appropriate gifts and farewells (Roethye had even made sure that Aeluta had seen the Aeldir off instead of her - she doubted that Autumn wanted to speak with her anyway) and the Primal people slept.

Roethye smiled as she looked down on her city, seeing only the occasional flicker of a candle. She thought back to the days before the Imperium. She was just old enough to remember a time where the Primus family's rule had not been absolute. Despite the tale she'd told the Jade Coalition's delegate, it hadn't been a smooth and easy transition. Most houses had joined the Imperium thinking it an alliance too unstable to last.

I wonder what they'd say if they could see me now.

"All in all, I'd call this tournament a success." She said aloud. "You ought to be commended, Lady Eventus."

Lady Eventus leaned against her staff, once her weapon of choice and now her walking stick. Age had run her ragged and gray, and no amount of cosmetics (that she didn't wear anyway) could cover up her wrinkled, sagging complexion. This woman was old enough to remember a time before the Imperium was even an idea, old enough perhaps to have seen Cochradice's rise from petty warlord to conqueror. It was really quite amazing she'd made the trip back. "If I had done anything, perhaps."

"You don't give yourself enough credit." Roethye looked up, towards the stars. "You certainly had to push to get this whole event arranged."

"Heh." She sneered. "And yet you controlled everything, as the Primus always do."

Roethye cocked an eyebrow. "You sound bitter."

"Do I?" The noblewoman's grin split her face into an ugly scar. "Perhaps I am. Once my accomplishments were my own. Now they are the Imperium's. Yours."

"And yours. You may have protested this event, but you are part of the Imperium."

"Heh. No, no I'm not. I'm still stuck in a bygone era."

"I protested because this tournament could have never been held in the time before. None of the delegates would have made it to Valkyrie without grevious injury. Those that didn't die would bring their armies to restore order and the people would have been massacred. Can't say we wouldn't have deserved it either."

Roethye's sorrow reached her eyes. "Lady Eventus. Do you miss that autonomy enough to go back?"

The noblewoman burst out laughing. "You're kidding, right? No, I meant no offense Roethye. I quite enjoyed this tournament, Imperial glory or not. Keeping an eye on the elfers was particularly challenging."

"... the what?"

"The pointy eared ones. Haughty? You told me to watch them for-"

"Oh, the Aeldir." She chuckled. "Elfer. Gods, that sounds dumb."

"But in the end," Eventus placed a hand on Roethye's shoulder, "You made new contact with the outside world. We know who our enemies and friends could be, and we got a chance to show our might. Our people are strong, united, are not tearing each other apart, and my daughter will have a land to rule as the Eventus ought. I could never regret all of this."

"... I'm glad." Roethye grasped onto the railing. "It's nice to know that, whatever else may happen, we are doing better than those that came before."

"Aye." Eventus frowned. "You'll keep my daughter safe as requested, i trust? She's young, ripe for some plucky fool to get the drop on her, even if her title is basically useless right now."

"I've got my eye on her." Roethye nodded. "At least until she takes Quintas. I don't play favorites when it comes to who's in charge."

"That's all I ask." Eventus growled. "But speaking of which, House Materius-"

"-is making a mess of things in Tertius." Roethye's eyes grew dark. "I am aware."

"Will you not do anything?!"

"No one has challenged her yet, so I must assume she is doing her best." Roethye shrugged. "If I must march more troops in, I will. Though I am considering other options. If she-"

A creak.

Roethye's head shot up.

Eventus raised an eyebrow. "Your majesty?"

"At the ready."

Eventus' hand tightened on her staff. She was past her prime, but she was not even close to helpless.

[Mary_Sue]

The Orm and the High Queen

The Orm's attention remained on the High Queen as she spoke, white hair and skin nearly luminescent in the gloom, her eyes black mirrors that sparkled in the light of the sail cloth. She sipped at her own flute of nectar, the nostrils in her thin nose flaring slightly as they absorbed the scent of her homeland.

"Your humility is unnecessary, High Queen. While your territory may yet be incomplete, the virtues of your people are on ready display for those capable of seeing them. I have no doubt you will succeed in uniting your people, for my people well know the power of such a dream."

She lapsed into silence, remembering that it was a similar dream that had led the Geshemafar to ruin. A powerful dream, yes, but dangerous if not tempered by wisdom. She shook her head slightly, sending the braids that framed her head into a pendulous swing.

"But enough of my questions. I have no doubt you have some of your own, High Queen, especially when I consider the rumors that fly through this dismal city like gadflies."

Thalia smiled at the enigmatic creature as she praised her realm and it's successes. the Aeldir certainly kept themselves informed well to be so familiar with her small, distant realm. From the rumours, they were all seers and magi, peering into their scrying glasses by night, spying on unaware mortals as they slept. She snorted derisively to herself.

"The words of my realm are "We Shall Rise", Orm Danu. In order to rise, one must first to have fallen, and so my people value humility, so that we may have the chance to rise to our destined greatness." Of course that did not always work in one's favour, she thought to herself as she swirled the fragrant, golden liquid in her glass. Her predecessor had many jewels in her crown when she had died, but in reality she had done little to form a lasting legacy for herself or her people.

"To see my people united in my lifetime, it is my most fervent hope that this will be my legacy but I am a mere Queen and no Prophetess, but it is to this end I dedicate my reign to, Mother willing it shall be done." She would not barter her people's ruin against her dream, however, she thought solemnly to herself as she sipped the flavour of golden fields, drenched in warmth and light.

"Truly Orm Danu, my questions are legion and I fear I would not live long enough to ask them all of you, even if you were so kind as to sit and answer them all." She tossed her soft golden curls from side to side as she pondered a question that might be inoffensive to the enigmatic woman, but still informative to her and her people. She decided to stay on the topic of longevity that she had introduced with her jest.

"If I may, I would ask how many human lifetimes you have spent upon your island, and if there was anything before the Courts that you can remember." What an ant she must seem to The Orm, scurrying to and fro, frantically racing through her short life, desperately trying to make her mark during her tragically short time upon the land. She looked up to meet The Orm's deeply intense eyes with her own clear blue ones, realizing in their depths more forgotten than she would ever learn and shivered.

[TheDarkDM]

The Orm and the High Queen

Thalia smiled at the enigmatic creature as she praised her realm and it's successes. the Aeldir certainly kept themselves informed well to be so familiar with her small, distant realm. From the rumours, they were all seers and magi, peering into their scrying glasses by night, spying on unaware mortals as they slept. She snorted derisively to herself.

"The words of my realm are "We Shall Rise", Orm Danu. In order to rise, one must first to have fallen, and so my people value humility, so that we may have the chance to rise to our destined greatness." Of course that did not always work in one's favour, she thought to herself as she swirled the fragrant, golden liquid in her glass. Her predecessor had many jewels in her crown when she had died, but in reality she had done little to form a lasting legacy for herself or her people.

"To see my people united in my lifetime, it is my most fervent hope that this will be my legacy but I am a mere Queen and no Prophetess, but it is to this end I dedicate my reign to, Mother willing it shall be done." She would not barter her people's ruin against her dream, however, she thought solemnly to herself as she sipped the flavour of golden fields, drenched in warmth and light.

"Truly Orm Danu, my questions are legion and I fear I would not live long enough to ask them all of you, even if you were so kind as to sit and answer them all." She tossed her soft golden curls from side to side as she pondered a question that might be inoffensive to the enigmatic woman, but still informative to her and her people. She decided to stay on the topic of longevity that she had introduced with her jest.

"If I may, I would ask how many human lifetimes you have spent upon your island, and if there was anything before the Courts that you can remember." What an ant she must seem to The Orm, scurrying to and fro, frantically racing through her short life, desperately trying to make her mark during her tragically short time upon the land. She looked up to meet The Orm's deeply intense eyes with her own clear blue ones, realizing in their depths more forgotten than she would ever learn and shivered.

The Orm seemed surprised by the question, and the silence between the warrior queen and the aeldir stretched long in the darkness before she responded.

"That is a difficult question to answer, High Queen. The mists of Tir Amser warps one's sense of time. How to explain the peace found in sitting before a block of granite and simply carving, carving with such focus that the work itself seems to sate you, until a year has passed and a mighty stone has been reduced to a seagull of knots? I no longer remember my birth, though my childhood remains. I can see vividly the wreck of a mighty ship upon our shores, its sailors speaking an odd tongue and bearing swords of bronze. I remember a stranded man who charmed Lord Winter so fully he was given a ship and allowed to leave, only for his grandson to return and trade with us, as did the grandson's son and grandson, before the family line was eradicated in some ancient plague. I remember stories of great wars being fought across the sea, of terrible loss, of beauty extinguished. Of raids on far off lands where conspiracies of ravens would be the only sign of our passing. But the history of the Aeldir is so bound in the struggle for primacy between the Courts that these events are but footnotes in the saga of my life. I suppose Lugh Anann is to be congratulated for his transgression, in that way. It forced us to re-examine the fulcrum of our history."

At mention of the other aeldir, the Orm's right hand moved almost of its own volition to lightly stroke the scar running across her face. Then she started, and continued.

"Apologies, High Queen. There is nothing for us before the Courts, at least not as we are now. There are certain myths, but they are not mine to share. Suffice it to say that the Lords and Ladies of the Four Courts have ruled over us since time immemorial."

[Mary_Sue]

The Orm and the High Queen


The Orm seemed surprised by the question, and the silence between the warrior queen and the aeldir stretched long in the darkness before she responded.

"That is a difficult question to answer, High Queen. The mists of Tir Amser warps one's sense of time. How to explain the peace found in sitting before a block of granite and simply carving, carving with such focus that the work itself seems to sate you, until a year has passed and a mighty stone has been reduced to a seagull of knots? I no longer remember my birth, though my childhood remains. I can see vividly the wreck of a mighty ship upon our shores, its sailors speaking an odd tongue and bearing swords of bronze. I remember a stranded man who charmed Lord Winter so fully he was given a ship and allowed to leave, only for his grandson to return and trade with us, as did the grandson's son and grandson, before the family line was eradicated in some ancient plague. I remember stories of great wars being fought across the sea, of terrible loss, of beauty extinguished. Of raids on far off lands where conspiracies of ravens would be the only sign of our passing. But the history of the Aeldir is so bound in the struggle for primacy between the Courts that these events are but footnotes in the saga of my life. I suppose Lugh Anann is to be congratulated for his transgression, in that way. It forced us to re-examine the fulcrum of our history."

At mention of the other aeldir, the Orm's right hand moved almost of its own volition to lightly stroke the scar running across her face. Then she started, and continued.

"Apologies, High Queen. There is nothing for us before the Courts, at least not as we are now. There are certain myths, but they are not mine to share. Suffice it to say that the Lords and Ladies of the Four Courts have ruled over us since time immemorial."

Thalia was unexpectedly moved by the women's words and thought she may glimpse a small mote of sadness in the Orm's tone, lifetimes of loss etched into the fine bones of her face. She took Orm Danu's hand that had unconsciously stroked the angry scar that was the only mar in her otherwise cold, but perfect beauty. The Aeldir's hand was cool and dry in her own warm one, the delicate bones beneath the white skin hard and prominent beneath her fingers.

"I can see why Helia was affected so by your meeting. Your perspectives and experiences are truly remarkable." She released the Orm's hand as her eyes wandered across the sparse room, which not finding anything of interest to keep them, flicked back to the Aeldir.

"I have met the Aeldir of Winter and Autumn. What are the others like? Spring and Summer is it?" She placed her empty flute onto the small table that sat between them and waited curiously to hear of the other two Courts.

PepperP.

Thalia sat atop her mount with her retinue, preparing to leave Valkyrie for the long journey back to Avonlea. Nyle sat in his father's arms and looked at her with his big blue eyes, watery from crying.

"Promise me that he will be well cared for, please?" Her voice broke but she did not allow her tears to fall in front of her small son, and tried to smile reassuringly at him as he fussed and reached his arms out to her.

[PepperP.]

PepperP.

Thalia sat atop her mount with her retinue, preparing to leave Valkyrie for the long journey back to Avonlea. Nyle sat in his father's arms and looked at her with his big blue eyes, watery from crying.

"Promise me that he will be well cared for, please?" Her voice broke but she did not allow her tears to fall in front of her small son, and tried to smile reassuringly at him as he fussed and reached his arms out to her.

"You have my word, I swear it." Maldarr's voice was husky as he tried to soothe his son, but he looked intently up into Thalia's eyes, trying desperately to soothe her worries, but knew he could do little to ease her pain.

"They will grow up as brothers, I swear it." Derris held his own young son in his arms as he made his vow to the High Queen of Avonlea, Colson was fussing in sympathy with Nyle, the men rocking their sons, trying to quiet them in vain. Belinda smiled kindly at the Queen, her heart aching at the thought of having to leave her child behind, to be raised by others.

"He will be well-loved, and among family." Belinda went over to Maldarr and stroked Nyle's hair soothingly as the boy whimpered and rubbed his eyes, tired from crying. Graylace circled restlessly and then sat at Maldarr's feet and howled mournfully in chorus with the children.

[Mary_Sue]

"You have my word, I swear it." Maldarr's voice was husky as he tried to soothe his son, but he looked intently up into Thalia's eyes, trying desperately to soothe her worries, but knew he could do little to ease her pain.

"They will grow up as brothers, I swear it." Derris held his own young son in his arms as he made his vow to the High Queen of Avonlea, Colson was fussing in sympathy with Nyle, the men rocking their sons, trying to quiet them in vain. Belinda smiled kindly at the Queen, her heart aching at the thought of having to leave her child behind, to be raised by others.

"He will be well-loved, and among family." Belinda went over to Maldarr and stroked Nyle's hair soothingly as the boy whimpered and rubbed his eyes, tired from crying. Graylace circled restlessly and then sat at Maldarr's feet and howled mournfully in chorus with the children.

Thalia's heart burned feverishly as she smiled bravely one last time at her small son. She knew she would see him again someday, but that she had left him would always be between them. She turned her mount towards the Valkyrie gate and began the long journey home, not looking back. Nyle's cries and the simurgh's howls ringing in her ears, chasing her home through the mountains and all the way back to Avonlea.

[Kasanip]

"One in the same actually," Cynel smiled, "A quick eye, worthy of a Ranger. What did you say your name was?" she asked, whether intentionally or unintentionally avoiding the answer to his question was unclear.



Though Chesuka could not witness it with her eyes bent to the floor a wicked smile, couched in the appearance of pleasure crossed Cynel's face. The soft landings of her feet sounded beside Chesuka as she stood at the end of Chesuka's pledge and the beginning of her request. A beat, filled with the lives of the Luskan clans and the weight of the decision being made here in this salon of Valkyrie pressed down on both Lady Autumn and Chesuka in equal measure.

"Arise child, arise as Chesuka of Luska, Protectorate of the Rose Courts," Cynel held her hand out to gingerly cup the young woman's face as she raised her head from the floor and smiled down into her eyes with all the woeful care of a mother to her child.

"The agreement is forged," she intoned ritualistically, "and it is recognized by gods and mortals."

She gave a nod to Chesuka, encouraging her to her feet and smiled at her before taking her own seat and signing the document in turn, pulling a copy free for Chesuka to take.

"You are welcome to stay here," she interrupted the silence as her pen finished its scrawl, "but I understand if you wish to go and speak with your friends and to explain things now."


OOC: Going to put this in my actions for the round


Luskan Contract

This contract is a binding legal and contractual obligation between the signatories, their heirs, and their represented bodies concerning the governance and disposition of the island of Luska.

Chesuka of Luska recognizes and incorporates the blame for the war in which Luska was taken by the Rose Courts in the common year 106 onto her shoulders. She accepts responsibility for the thievery of the "Luskan Trade Network" and her responsibility in starting the war with the Rose Courts. For this she and the people of Luska shall be granted mercy.

Chesuka of Luska recognizes this mercy is beget to her by the Rose Courts. So too does she recognize the right of the Rose Courts to Luska by right of conquest and thus recognizes the Rose Courts as her and her successors sovereign for its return. For this she is restored to rulership of the island of Luska.

Chesuka of Luska surrenders her and her people's claims to the islands known as Rivo Alto and Gullinbursti north of the island of Luska to the Rose Courts. For this she shall be granted the "Isle of the Free Men" to her south within four years from the signing of this document.

Chesuka of Luska, her proper successors, and the people they represent shall be so recognized as Protectorates of the Rose Courts, and Members of the Second Order within the Rose Demesne. No harm shall be sought against them from within the Rose Demesne, nor shall they seek to cause harm to the Demesne in turn. So too shall the resources of Luska be made available to other members of the Rose Demesne as needed and Luska shall be cared for in turn.

So signed this day, in the common year 108

Cynel Bres, Lady Autumn of the Rose Courts
Chesuka of Luska


Chesuka and Lady Autumn

Chesuka was surprised when the slender and warm fingers pulled her head up. She stared up at the face which seemed warmer than before. Slowly, Chesuka stood as Lady Autumn commanded. And she stood dutifully as the Aeldir woman signed the documents.

Documents that had made her Chesuka, Protectorate of the Rose Courts. Although only a few minutes had passed, somehow though, the atmosphere had completely changed. Now she was a servant to the Rose Courts. Maybe it was like a magic in the signed words, or her oath, but Chesuka was aware of the feeling now. There was almost a pressure now. Lady Autumn was her sovereign. Chesuka had before been prepared to fight to kill the Lady Autumn. However, now those bitter feelings had been swallowed with sweet marigold nectar. It was hard to think of the thoughts without the taste driving them to disappear like shadows. A few minutes ago she had sat across from Lady Autumn as a contending opponent. But she could not do that now. Her feet could not let her.
"You are welcome to stay here," "but I understand if you wish to go and speak with your friends and to explain things now." Lady Autumn said.

It was polite and generous. However, Chesuka could not tell if it was a dismissal or a test. There were many things to learn about the Aeldir.
"Thank you for your kindness, my Lady." Chesuka replied softly. With grace and humbleness she refilled Lady Autumn's glass.
"However, I will stay here at your command." She replied. The perfect wine of Luska was the Aeldir's to enjoy in victory. The rebel leader who was now a servant recognized this and her own position. Alysha and Mevo had already known this was one outcome of the situation. It was why Chesuka had only trusted them together to come. Only Choko disapproved so strongly, but that was why Chesuka had Mevo hold him.

"If my Lady Autumn would prefer, I will depart to see the details." She continued. However, there was one thing to request.
"I believe misunderstanding has caused unfortunate incidents in the past. I would like to request permission for the study of Aeldir language and culture to occur in Luska in the future. Especially myself, I do not know the proper behavior and etiquette that is expected. Therefore, I would like to request my Lady Autumn's wisdom about this matter."

[Reggiejam]

Chesuka and Lady Autumn

Chesuka was surprised when the slender and warm fingers pulled her head up. She stared up at the face which seemed warmer than before. Slowly, Chesuka stood as Lady Autumn commanded. And she stood dutifully as the Aeldir woman signed the documents.

Documents that had made her Chesuka, Protectorate of the Rose Courts. Although only a few minutes had passed, somehow though, the atmosphere had completely changed. Now she was a servant to the Rose Courts. Maybe it was like a magic in the signed words, or her oath, but Chesuka was aware of the feeling now. There was almost a pressure now. Lady Autumn was her sovereign. Chesuka had before been prepared to fight to kill the Lady Autumn. However, now those bitter feelings had been swallowed with sweet marigold nectar. It was hard to think of the thoughts without the taste driving them to disappear like shadows. A few minutes ago she had sat across from Lady Autumn as a contending opponent. But she could not do that now. Her feet could not let her.
"You are welcome to stay here," "but I understand if you wish to go and speak with your friends and to explain things now." Lady Autumn said.

It was polite and generous. However, Chesuka could not tell if it was a dismissal or a test. There were many things to learn about the Aeldir.
"Thank you for your kindness, my Lady." Chesuka replied softly. With grace and humbleness she refilled Lady Autumn's glass.
"However, I will stay here at your command." She replied. The perfect wine of Luska was the Aeldir's to enjoy in victory. The rebel leader who was now a servant recognized this and her own position. Alysha and Mevo had already known this was one outcome of the situation. It was why Chesuka had only trusted them together to come. Only Choko disapproved so strongly, but that was why Chesuka had Mevo hold him.

"If my Lady Autumn would prefer, I will depart to see the details." She continued. However, there was one thing to request.
"I believe misunderstanding has caused unfortunate incidents in the past. I would like to request permission for the study of Aeldir language and culture to occur in Luska in the future. Especially myself, I do not know the proper behavior and etiquette that is expected. Therefore, I would like to request my Lady Autumn's wisdom about this matter."

"Your own wisdom shows in such a request," Cynel said with an approving smile that a teacher might give to a favored student, "To discuss the intricacies of our language and culture will take years but I am happy to aid you in doing so and provide you with a capable Aeldir of my court to serve your learning needs while you administrate in Luska. You are part of the Demesne now, and while you are a vassal of our Courts that grants you our respect and trust. So long as this trust is maintained we will endeavor to treat you with fairness and see to your needs. Now please, you have been more than amicable. I hope that your fellows are able to understand and guided to accept as you have the realities of our situation."


If you're willing I'd be happy to say an Aeldir Matron was sent with Chesuka back to Luska as part of the agreement and you can PM me and ask about stuff regarding the Aeldir and I'll be happy to get back to you as quickly as I can on things.